Author: Lauretta Hignett
Series: The Waif in the Wilds Series Book #1
Category: Paranormal Romance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This girl kills bad people and she isn’t sorry about it. If you’re convinced you're destined to go to hell when you die, you might as well take a few people with you, right?
On the run from the only life she has ever known, Chloe is lost without a purpose other than killing those who made her into a killer. Circumstances lead her to a paranormal town with secrets of its own and Chloe is faced with the choice to find a way to accept her past or give up. She has so much pent-up grief and anger that she can't see a future for herself, but even those who have committed atrocious acts can find redemption in loyalty and helping those who need it most.
"This is the only thing that gives me peace. Killing people like you is the only thing that silences the screaming in my head, just for a moment, and I relish it." - Chloe
As Chloe starts to collect friends in Castlemaine, we are introduced to some truly fun secondary characters who may have as much baggage as her own demons. The standout was obviously Dwayne, the vicious sidekick was delightfully surly with a personality to match his ego. Whoever thought a goose couldn't be fierce never met a goose - even if Dwayne may be more than just a normal bird.
I loved the magical tease of this world and the slow unfolding of past events mixed in with the present. The first chapter drags you right into the action, there is little lead-in or explanation until further into the book. Stick with it, the story is worth it I promise, and all will be revealed.
"Goddamnit, I was like a leaky tap these days. Child Assassin Chloe never cried. Sweet Dumb Chloe cried at insurance commercials. Who the fuck was I now?" - Chloe
This was a story of grief, abuse, and depression, but also the power of companionship to heal. Chloe's determination and strength will only serve her well as she integrates into Castlemaine and finds her place in the paranormal town for morally grey individuals. And I just know Malik Malleus, the prime candidate for a slow-burn love interest, won't be able to keep Chloe at arm's length forever.
While some plot lines are concluded, more persist to the next book and there is a cliffhanger. I can't wait to pick up book two!
Tropes and Themes: Urban Fantasy, Magic, Mystery, Paranormal, Vampires, Angels, Hell, Dystopia, Animal Sidekick, Monsters, Small Town, Slow Burn.
Blurb
I've been asleep for the past ten years.
The horror of waking up from the best dream ever and remembering you’re a monster is indescribable. My soul is screaming for mercy, for forgiveness, for redemption… but I know I’ll never get it. I’m going to Hell for everything I’ve done.
The only thing I can do now is take as many monsters with me as I can.
My list is almost complete. There’s one more name to go, and it’s the hardest job I’ve ever done.
I’m on my way to Castlemaine — a bizarre little town hidden in between Wildwood Canyon and the Badlands of California.
Strange things lurk in Castlemaine. It’s the Bermuda Triangle of the United States — a place of weird old magic, odd people, and vicious creatures like me. Nobody ever wants to go there, because they might not ever come back. But I’ve got no choice.
I’m going to take out the man who taught me to kill.
Kommentare