Stunning wrap-up to a fabulous urban fantasy series
I've loved Nicole Peeler's Jane True series from the start and this conclusion delighted, dazzled and drained me. Smart, sassy and kick-ass as ever, the voice of these books is now so familiar that settling into this last one is like visiting an old friend (you know, that old mate who can always say the right thing to make you laugh, not the touchy-feely one). It's not all fun and games though - there are some seriously tense sequences here and I would definitely avoid reading it in public if you don't like dabbing your eyes while reading in front of strangers.Before reading on, I should warn you that this review may have spoilers for earlier books in the series (I'll try not to give too much away, but can't promise), but not for this final novel. If you haven't read the series and are interested to read more, my review of the start of the series is here.
The novel begins exactly after the events of the last novel (Tempest's Fury) - Jane and her fellow fighters are reeling, having not only failed to prevent The White from coming back, but having also lost Anyan in the process. Obviously, following that major catastrophe, the bulk of this novel is concerned with battling The Red and The White and avenging/trying to save Anyan. I don't want to say too much about plot, but I do want to stress that I found this an entirely satisfying end to the series, speaking as a reader who hates being left hanging above all else. Nicole Peeler knows how to gather up those loose threads, but she also knows how to put her characters (and her readers) through the wringer. I loved the book, but the process of reading wasn't all comfy-cosy, I can tell you!
I can see me re-reading this series in the future (not often the case), and have been merrily recommending it to all my friends who I think might enjoy it (it's surprising how many people will watch Urban Fantasy series on TV but haven't read it, even if they are readers - sometimes not even realising it is available as a book genre).
As ever, the characters are sharply written and are what make the book. Jane's voice cracks me up - I love her witticisms and pop culture references (Downton Abbey gets a mention in this one!). Both her 'supe' friends and her Rockabill buddies are fab and practically all appear in this installment (although, as a battle-focused book, there is a lot less of the non-supernatural types, which makes sense). I love that Ryu reappears and that their relationship progresses and develops here, and his presence also serves to make clear just how far Jane has come through the series.
Overall, if you've enjoyed the rest of the series, I would absolutely urge you to read this. A very successful close to Jane's story.
From the Back Cover
Anyan may be trapped in an evil dragon and Blondie may be gone, but Jane knows one thing: she’s not about to give up. She’s ready to tear down heaven and earth to save her lover, despite those who believe he’s lost.Luckily for Jane, those who’ve given up on Anyan do not include those closest to her. Defying The Powers That Be, Jane and Company form their own crack squad of misfits, in whose hands the fate of the world may well rest.
With a little help from her friends, the Universe, and lots of snacks, Jane embarks on her greatest adventure yet, confident that with great sacrifice comes great reward. The question is, who will be that sacrifice?
*********************Published 28 May by OrbitFor more info about the series, visit Nicole Peeler's website
