| Title | : | The Source (Witching Savannah, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1477870148 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781477870143 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 352 |
| Publication | : | First published June 3, 2014 |
Graceful trees and historic buildings fill Savannah, Georgia, but beneath the city's Southern splendor, its supernatural roots run deep. The members of local witch families grace the society pages...when they're not secretly protecting their magical work from dark forces.
Savannah resident Mercy Taylor may now be in control of the South's most powerful family of witches, but she's struggling to master her newfound magic. Pregnant with her first child and still reeling from a heartbreaking betrayal, she just wants to be able to use her supernatural abilities without accidentally destroying dishes or blasting the doors off buildings.
But when Mercy's long-presumed-dead mother suddenly returns, begging Mercy to keep her presence under wraps, the witch wonders how many secrets her family is hiding...and who she can really trust. And when the danger around her intensifies to deadly levels, Mercy knows she must discover the truth behind her family's magic—before it destroys her.
The second book in J.D. Horn's Witching Savannah series, The Source casts a thrilling spell.
The Source (Witching Savannah, #2) Reviews
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I love stories about witches. There are no where enough good witch books out there though. This is one set of books that I've truely enjoyed. Set in Savannah, GA. The author does a fantastic job of incorporating Savannah as part of the story and I frigging love it.
(Case in point) Candler Tree-in the book it is full of spirits. I can so believe that.
Mercy is a strong character in this book and it moves a pace that kept me reading and wanting more the whole book. I'm not crazy about Peter as a love choice for her but some of the parts that came out in this book says that maybe he may change and not be such a whiney ass.
These books are pure fun. Light reading that takes you away. Just what I needed.
The characters in this book do become so real. In fact, My new kitten just got named after a character in this book.
Meet Jilo.
I recieved an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. -
Ugh, my feelers. This book sure did a number on me.
It will be hard to review this book without giving too much away but here it goes. The Source begins with Mercy attempting to adapt to the new roles that she find herself in. It seems as though everything and everyone is working against her. When someone she thought long dead enters her life she begins to question everything. Who can she trust? How can she make the right decisions when everyone around her is keeping secrets? She will do everything she can to protect herself and those she loves as soon as she figures out who the enemy is.
I absolutely adored this book! It was slightly less wonderful that The Line, the first book in the Witching Savannah series. I have found that the second book in a trilogy is often used to build for the climax of the third book, so I was not disappointed or surprised.
The characters and all of their quirks have really grown on me. I really started rooting for Mercy and the rest of the Taylor clan. In the Source we find out a few new things about some of these characters that will leave you begging for answers. There is also a death in the book that will rip your heart out but of course I can't tell you who because that just takes all of the fun out of it!
This book was the perfect mix of fantasy, magic, rebellion and sex. If you haven't read it yet you are missing out!
Find this review and more at
https://brittanymariereads.wordpress.... -
Jilo, please adopt me! It had been a while since I had read the first one so I was surprised and delighted by this one. I really enjoyed it and will continue on to the next book in the series.
2nd reading- it's ok. I liked the beings that was in this story. -
Initial Thoughts: The Source by JD Horn has some really good atmosphere. Hot and steamy Savannah, Georgia is the backdrop to this story about witches vying for power. At the center of the story is Mercy Taylor of the powerful Taylor witch family. Mercy is just coming into her powers under the watchful eye of Mother Jilo. I love how the author draws from different sources to create his story. There's a golem from Jewish lore, fae lore from Europe, and the hoodoo from the south. There's some fantastic revelations about Mercy and her family in this one. Make sure that you read The Line first.
The Review:
Christal and I talk about this book on
Badass Book Reviews. Check it out!
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for a review copy of this book. -
The romance reader in me is confused.
That isn't really the point with this series and I was able to ignore it in the first book, but I couldn't in this one.
I am so confused about how I am feeling! Gah!
Anyway, this was pretty exciting. Poor Mercy never could catch a break. I am dying to see what is going to happen next.
I am also very sad. Sad, sad, sad end. -
4.75 ★ Audiobook⎮ I'm tempted to bump this up to a 4.75 rating. The only thing that's stopping me is that there were a couple of scenes-- Screw it. This deserves a 4.75 rating. That ending got me right in the feels. I was going to say that there were a couple of scenes that I felt could have been played out a little a little better to spare me some confusion in the moment, but most everything got ironed out pretty quickly anyhow. I'm just not very quick on the uptake all of the time. Now that I think about it, this sequel far exceeded my expectations. With second installments, there's always the risk of a "sophomore slump", but this installment actually picked up momentum. There was so much freaking action in this book that is understandable why I felt a little overwhelmed at times, but only slightly. This author does a nice job of balancing action-packed scenes with explanatory ones, without resorting to "information dumps". When at any point I felt like I couldn't fully process what had just happened, the author provided some type of explanation (liked having it explained to another character or having the MC provide a refresher). I have to hand it to J.D Horn. He seems to be very in tune with his readers, enough that he can anticipate their needs. This installment solidified my obsession with the series and I cannot for the life of me figure out why I've never seen anyone talking about it. This is another one of those series that I would have never known about if I hadn't randomly stumbled upon it while "window shopping" on Audible.com. A hidden gem, I guess you could say. This series has everything that I love about paranormal and each time I think that it may be getting a little too bizarre for my liking, Horn dials it back and ties it all back into the main storyline. As I mentioned in my review of the first installment, one of the things that I most appreciate about this series is its maturity. I wouldn't classify the series as Young Adult, especially after this installment, which included one of the sexiest love scenes I've read in a long, long time. I'm so used to reading the nearly squeaky clean Young Adult genre, that it didn't take much of this much to make me blush! Mind you, that is not a complaint.
I've come to really appreciate Horn's style of character development. The main character and her family were extremely well-developed in the first installment. This installment indeed furthered the development, but what impressed me most was his way of developing the antagonists in the story. It's usually easy to identify a "villain" and form negative feelings towards them because of their evil deeds or even just because they are filling the role of villain. I normally dislike a villain because they are the villain and I know that's what is expected of me as the reader. Only in certain cases, like that of Dolores Umbridge, do I harbor such venomous hatred toward a villain that I actually have to pause the story and take a deep breaths in order to cool my temper down. This story presented another one of those times when I was practically seething with hatred. Horn developed his antagonist's villainous-ness not only around evil deeds, but primarily around an innate evil nature. Although probably controversial, the thing that most effectively made this point was Horn's choice to have the antagonist be both a murderous racist and a raging homophobe. Slurs were uttered that I cannot recall ever hearing in a story set in modern-day. It was this that caused my unequivocal loathing of the character, which I'm sure is exactly what Mr. Horn intended. Well, mission accomplished.
Narration review: Yet again, I have been floored by Shannon McManus' narration abilities. The voice distinction she provided for the main character's aunts, Iris and Ellen, alone was beyond impressive. McManus put on a one woman show! Her Savannah southern accent is utterly delightful and I think it has inadvertently caused me to thicken my own southern accent. I'm hesitant to say that she is the best narrator I've ever heard, because that sounds so definitive, but I'm really tempted to say it anyway. At the rate things are going now, it wouldn't surprise me if I'm over my commitment issues and ready to declare her my all-time favorite by the end of the series. ♣︎ -
When Mercy came into her powers at the end of book one, The Line her almost normal life ended. Now she has gone from being the one with no powers who was routinely dismissed to being at the centre of a seething maelstrom of plots and counter-plots.
When her mother who she thought was dead shows up telling her to trust no-one she doesn't know where to turn. Together with the one person whose motives she fully understands, Aunt Ginny, she searches for the truth in a whole haystack of lies.
The Source is a much better book than The Line. It feels like a more well rounded book, the story feels stronger and all in all it's more entertaining. It's not perfect, it felt like it was wandering off in the wilderness in the middle section and there was really too much going on but taking into account that this is the author's second novel (the first being The Line) it's quite an impressive effort. -
DNF at 65%
Yes, I made it all the way to the 65% mark before officially giving up on this book. I picked it up numerous times and tried to get into it, but it just never happened :( When I was reading this and realized I could care less if the entire coven blew up killing every single witch (as well as all other characters) and I wouldn't give a shit, I realized that it was time I give up on this series. I enjoyed the first book and had high hopes for the following books, but this one just never held my interest at any point. A lot of my friends like this series, but it was just all over the place for me, and I didn't care for it. Sorry -
What an awesome read absolutely love everything about this book could not put it down.
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#abrknpoet reviewed The Source
The Source, penned by the talented author J.D. Horn, takes readers on a mesmerizing journey into a world where witchcraft, secrets, and destiny intertwine. This captivating urban fantasy novel, set in the enchanting backdrop of Savannah, Georgia, delivers a gripping tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Horn's storytelling prowess shines through once again as he skillfully crafts a complex narrative that seamlessly blends the magical and the mundane. With his evocative prose, the author paints a vivid picture of Savannah's atmospheric charm, immersing readers in a world teeming with supernatural wonders and hidden truths.
The Source delves deeper into the Taylor family's lineage, focusing on Mercy's discovery of her true heritage and the power she possesses. Horn deftly explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the weight of destiny, as Mercy grapples with the consequences of her choices and the role she is destined to play. The character development is a strong suit in this novel, with Mercy's growth and resilience shining through as she navigates a world filled with ancient rivalries and dark secrets.
Horn's ability to create multifaceted characters is commendable. Each member of the Taylor family, along with the supporting cast, is richly portrayed, adding depth and intrigue to the story. The relationships between the characters are intricately woven, showcasing the complexity of familial bonds and the tangled web of loyalties that arise in the face of adversity.
The Source is a testament to Horn's vivid imagination and meticulous world-building. The magical system is intricately crafted, with its rules and limitations adding a sense of realism to the supernatural elements. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, as he explores the history and mythology that underpin the world of witches and warlocks, creating a rich tapestry that is both captivating and immersive.
While the pacing of the novel remains mostly steady, there are instances where the plot feels slightly convoluted, making it challenging to follow the intricacies of the story. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book, as Horn's engaging writing style and the sheer allure of the magical world he has created keep readers engrossed.
In conclusion, The Source by J.D. Horn is a captivating continuation of the Taylor family saga, weaving an enchanting tapestry of magic, destiny, and personal growth. With its atmospheric setting, well-crafted characters, and immersive world-building, this urban fantasy novel is a must-read for fans of the genre. Despite occasional plot complexities, Horn's talent for storytelling shines through, leaving readers eager to uncover the secrets that lie within The Source.
4.1 Stars -
The Source, like The Line, was another mixed bag for me. It picks up right after The Line, so best to have read that first. Mercy still doesn't know whom to trust. She seems to have forgiven Maisie way too easily, and fallen in love with Peter way too easily, and trusts Emily way too easily, especially for someone with knowledge and experience of magic and illusion. I like her relationship with Jilo, and her aunts and uncle seem better realized characters, I am still not convinced boyfriend Peter is a good thing, and another triangle?! (Although I like Emmet). The racial slurs directed at Adam by Josef are not gratuitous given Josef's Nazi connection and general evilness, but were pretty jarring. These reservations aside, the series continues to be entertaining as hell and a really fun read. That chandelier of "collectors" was pure creepy genius. The suspense propels the pages along, and the stage is set for more intriguing developments. I'll definitely be looking for the next entry. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my advanced copy.
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What the hell happened to this series. I loved the first book The Line, but come on, really? All the old characters were there but the story felt so contrived. And to add to the misery, a creepy love triangle with Emmett. I don't think I will be reading the next one.
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Well this was kind of a mess.
I enjoyed the first book. It wasn't great, but it was entertaining and worth reading. This book, though, was really hard to get through. There were so many story-lines and most of them really didn't go anywhere. The relationship between Mercy and Peter was incredibly lackluster to me...I didn't really get any sense as to WHY they loved one another. Of course there was a goddamn love triangle, because why not! (I have this image of writers being forced at gunpoint to include love triangles in their stories because I honestly can't imagine why else every single book in this genre would have one) I was kind of uncomfortable with the way a story that takes place in Savannah has only three characters of color, two of which were horribly stereotyped.
The writing was good. The main character was still interesting, and I still enjoyed the family interactions. So hence the two stars. There was a good story in here somewhere, but it was buried underneath fifty other stories. It was just too bloated and nothing was given enough time to have any emotional impact. Not sure if I'm going to read the third book because I'm kind of just super-annoyed by how quick this devolved. -
This is the second in a trilogy, and all of the main characters return for a exciting fight between good and evil. I enjoy this series so far because of the twists, turns and the unexpected surprise return of mixed relatives, good and bad. I would recommend this book to any followers of the witchy series, "Beautiful Creatures". It was easy to get attached to this family full of different powers and personalities, however, I have to divulge that I only made it half way through the third book. I gave it up because I did not like the way the story was going and almost every review I read said that it ruined the ending. This is not a practice I usually perform. The first two were very good and worth the time, Shannon McManus narration definitely adds spunk and depth to the story.
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TTC
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Amazing! A great sequel. Mercy has so many wonderful people around her to fight against the evil trying to interject itself into her life. And did she ever come into her own in this book. You go, Girl! I really enjoyed this story. So much drama and unpredictable occurrences made this breathtaking and entertaining. Absolutely love this series so far.
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**** Possible minor spoilers for The Line ****
I love stories about witches and I am completely enamored with all things southern. So a series that combines those two aspects a family of Witches in Savanna automatically gets a bump up in my book. The Source continues a few months after the Line ended.
Mercy, always thought she was non-magical. She grew up in a family of witches believing that the family power skipped over her. That was until the Line, a magical barrier between this world and a world filled with demons chose her to be its anchor. Mercy is playing catch up, she has more power than anyone before her, but no control. With the help of her family, a voodoo Queen and a Golem brought to life she must figure out how to control this new power and become the Witch she is meant to be.
I enjoyed following Mercy through her journey to tap into the power she holds. As heroines go she is pretty strong. She has a lot on her plate with trying to find her sister Maisy who has been magically trapped, her supposedly dead mother showing back up, Witch training and her engagement to Peter along with the pregnancy. It is difficult to balance and Peter is non-magical and has been kept in the dark about some things going on in Mercy’s life.When you’re lying to protect someone, there’s a certain sense of nobility to it—you know, or you think you know, that you’re freeing your loved ones from the weight of the knowing. I myself understood this from having lied to Peter about Maisy. But I felt a little less noble about it with every other falsehood that had followed.
It’s easy to like Mercy, she has a big heart and loves her entire quirky family, a family that seems to have more skeletons in their closets than the Kennedys. Mercy’s mother was thought to be dead since the girls birth. When she shows back up in Mercy’s life it is hard to determine what is true and what isn’t, especially after the secrets we learned in The Line. The one person Mercy knows she can trust is Jilo the Voodoo Queen of Savanna.
Jilo is my favorite character in this book and I was so happy to see her have a more active role in Mercy’s life.“They say this cemetery is full, but I’d gladly help free up a spot fo’ that one,” Jilo said, her expression as sunny as ever I’d seen it. Something about imagining the death of those who annoyed her brought out her best qualities. .
Jilo knows all of Savanna’s secrets and I loved that she took Mercy under her wing to help her get control and learn how to use her power.
This book is a wirl-wind. It takes off and there are so many things going on it moves very quickly. I missed Peter in the beginning it didn’t seem like we didn’t get to see him very much. He was just popping in and out. I liked how his relationship was growing and changing with Mercy being a newly discovered witch. I will say Peter has some unexpected developments that added an entirely new dimension to the story.
Things got a little uncomfortable and weird for me when Mercy had to interact with the power at Tillandsia, I think it was supposed to feel that way. That was the only part of the book when I really struggled with her character and the book could have took a turn for the super weird but it all straightened out soon enough.
The only issue I had with this book in the series is that so much happened. So many secrets were discovered, obstacles placed, challenges dealt with. The ending almost seemed a little squished together with everything that happened. But I will take that over nothing happening any day of the week. I would have liked just a little more time with the ambiance of Savanna.
Very good follow-up to the Line. I’m so interested in how JD Horn will finish up this series.
Thank you to Amazon via Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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Review Courtesy
All Things Urban Fantasy
When I saw THE SOURCE come up for review, I remembered how much I loved The Line, how it kept me so wrapped up at the end that I literally couldn’t put it down for the last 100 pages or so. That memory had me making grabby hands toward the second in the series. I wish I could say I was as pulled in this time, but the truth is, I wasn’t.
That’s not so say the sophomore installment isn’t a good story, it is. The characters I loved from The Line were still as wonderful as I remembered, and they all became richer and more developed in THE SOURCE and new characters brought even more depth to the story. Emmett, in particular, really added to that in a surprising way, for me at least. Surprising because I usually shy away from the love triangle plot device. I think that stems from my overall meh feelings for the main love interest, Peter. He wasn’t my favorite in The Line and became even less-so in THE SOURCE. All signs point to the fledgling triangle being both introduced and resolved within this book rather than being a drawn out choice, but as there is a third planned, I can’t help wondering.
What detracted in THE SOURCE, is a lack of tightness to the story as a whole. There just seemed to be so much that felt thrown in there out of nowhere and plot twists that are more like plot wrenches. The bait and switch around the arrival of Mercy’s mother, for one. Peter’s mother going from creepily obsessive over Mercy’s unborn child and getting the pair married as soon as possible to sympathetic mother-figure. Then there’s the whole subplot about Peter himself and keeping his family’s Big Secret from him, even though it directly impacts him and his son. Top it off with the mysterious Bad Guys, and, the whole almost contrived use of Tillandsia as sexual titillation factor, and it just felt like too much. It changed gears so many times, and so quickly, I kept having to go back and re-read sections to see if I missed something.
I enjoyed reading THE SOURCE and will no doubt be reading the third in the series to finish out Horn’s world to see how it all comes together, but I’ll do so with a hope that this time it’s a return to the tighter storytelling of The Line. -
Now that Mercy is an anchor, she needs to learn about (and control) the new magic she possesses. Emmet is her designated tutor, but he seems to think the Line created him to be Mercy's personal "person", which doesn't go over well with her fiance, Peter.
This series sure does put you through the wringer. At one point, I was doubting everyone for every action that was taken. Mercy was actually better at figuring out who to trust than I was. One thing is for sure, Mercy's family is MESSED UP! -
I received this book from NET GALLEY for an honest review
This is book two in the series. We pick up where book one left off. Mercy is trying to get ahold of her new found powers. Which is kind a difficult with meddling family and a baby on the way. Trying to come to terms that her fiancé had a spell put on her. Then add the pressure of her mother reappearing in Savannah. It is a wonder the poor Mercy doesn't have a mental breakdown. The secrets are getting out of control. Everyone has their own agenda and then there are the men in her life . Peter the one true love, she knows a secret about him , and Emmett the golem turned man to help her harness her power. They both love her and will do anything to help her.
Mercy is also trying to find out what happened to her sister Maisie. After she disappeared from their sight . She so wants to have her sister back and to forgive her sister for what she did. Her mother coming back just throws everything into chaos. Poor Mercy doesn't know where to turn and who to trust . The only woman that she can trust is mother Jilo. As Mercy tries to figure out who to trust and why her mother is back . She is placed in great danger . Will she and her loved ones survive this or will the dark magic finally take them down,
This book has so many twists and turns. you don't know who to believe and trust as you read . The characters have evolved since the first book. They are so complicated and they keep adding to the story, I really liked the back story of Merxy's family. Especially her father, It added a depth to the story. You notice that the family is flawed in their own ways in this book. The barriers seem to come down on them this time around
J.D weaves a tale of the fight between good and evil . And you honestly don't know what side the chips are going to land on. Everyone is fighting for their lives and wanting to do what is right, \
I want to tell you guys , you need to read this series . They so remind me of the True Blood series by Charlaine Harris . They are funny and a great read for this summer. J.D Horn is an author that I will be adding to my farourite authors list. I so can't wait for book three . -
Better than the first, but still have doubts
Definitely more action than the first book, and darker, which was a real plus. The magic in this world will not be some soft kids fairy tale, and I look forward to how it will play out.
Aside from that, I do have some concerns. The side characters seem rather faceless (ie useless) for the most part, save Mother Jilo. There are quite a few and none of them are very fleshed out. My biggest concern since the first book is Mercy's pregnancy. That may turn me off from this series altogether. It's just so unneeded. I would have loved to see her character develop as an individual, growing into her place in the magical world, without added pressures and influences of an unexpected pregnancy and marrying some guy she keeps having to convince herself that she's in love with. Doesn't really set the stage for inspiring, butt-kicking novice witch extraordinaire. Hopefully book 3 will clear some things up...one way or the other. -
Well! What do I say? It was one hell of a ride. That was action packed and full of surprises! I’ve throughly enjoyed the escape this story is providing. I wasn’t sure how book one would be topped. But Mr. Horn did a great job. I’m excited to start book 3.
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6/2/2023 - 6/3/2023
Such a great story. I originally read this in early 2018, and book 2 in 2014. I’ve finally got the audiobooks, and I’m devouring them! I never finished the series, and needed the refresher. I’m enjoying the series even more now that I’ve got it on audio. Great narration, plot, characters etc …
Roll on book 3, and for the first time! -
I really liked The Line - the first book in this series - but found that The Source left me a bit cold. Mostly because every single thing that Mercy did was STUPID. And as you are reading it, it is clear that it is a TRAP and she's being STUPID. And then she does it anyway.
But I'll still read book 3, I imagine, when it comes out. -
I know, I didn't like the first one but I read this one anyway. I don't know what happened, but I've started the third one, also. I guess sometimes you just need some crappy magic/romance/drama in your life. Plus, it's on kindle unlimited.
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The first one was okay and it may just be time/place/attention-span, but I'm sort of hating this. Lots going on, nothing really coming together, characters seem to not react like real people would, or even their characters would. I don't like anyone because I dont care about them, the list goes on.
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Book 2 of the series and this one was so much better than the first. I'm really enjoying these quick reads. Love the characters, especially Jilo.
Can't wait for the 3rd book sometime soon. -
Volumul 2 mi-a placut ceva mai putin decat primul.
Privesc acum in urma si vad ca la inceput mi-a placut tare mult, eram prinsa in rasturnarile de situatie si secretele care erau dezvaluite, la tot misterul care cuprindea cartea.
Nu sunt ipocrita sa sustin ca aceste lucruri nu au fost prezente si pe parcurs, pentru ca au fost. Doar ca intr-un fel au avut un ritm mult mai alert, decat mi-ar fi placut. Scenele nu pareau complete, mai ales pasajele in care avea loc o confruntare - mi se pareau sterse, superficial scrise, nu reuseam deloc sa imi schitez in minte acele cadre, asa cum reusisem in primul volum.
Un alt aspect, care a fost prezent si in Bariera, dar acum parca a devenit insuportabil cumva, este relatia dintre Peter si Mercy. Oricat de mult ar incerca autorul sa sublinieze profunzimea ei, Peter a fost pe buna dreptate prea putin prezent pentru a putea face asta. Si poate ca nu m-ar fi deranjat prea tare asta daca nu ar fi fost prezenta o continua inclinatie spre un triunghi amoros, pe care eu una nu pot sa il suport. Dar da, aici intervine subiectivitatea, intr-o buna masura.
Si totusi, ca sa-i dam Cezarului ce e al sau, cartea reuseste cu usurinta sa te tina prins in poveste, intr-un fantasy intunecat de secretele ascunse la tot pasul. Crimele, elementele gotice si ocultismul sunt trasaturi suficiente sa citesti fara sa simti cum trec paginile. M-a prins, dar din pacate mai putin decat ma asteptam. -
3.5 stars
This is the second book in a series that I started a couple years ago. Stop reading if you don't want to hear spoilers of the first book. Unfortunately, I didn't write a review, but I think it would probably be similar to my reaction to this one. Mercy Taylor comes from a family of powerful witches. She is now trying to understand her recently acquired powers so she can rescue her twin sister, who has disappeared. She is also planning a wedding and growing a baby --- she's one busy girl! someone from her past appears and causes her to question all the things about The Line and her family.
So maybe it was impending motherhood, but I felt like Mercy was more mature than in the previous book. This series is entertaining urban fantasy, dripping with some southern charm. There are some cringeworthy scenes, but overall, the tone is fairly humorous. If you need a break from serious reads and like witch storyies, you might want to give the series a try. I think I feel the first book read very YA, but this one does feel more adult. -
AH and I discussed The Source on
Badass Book Reviews and we highly recommend reading JD Horn's debut novel,
The Line, first.
AH and Christal's Review - 4 Skulls - B+
Christal: We're back with Mercy and the Savannah Taylors for the second installment in the Witching Savannah series. What did you think about the world building this time around, AH?
AH: Savannah is the perfect backdrop for this series. It's an older town, steeped in the traditions of the south, complete with hoodoo, witchcraft, etc. The author then added lore from Jewish mysticism (the golem) and from Gaelic mythology (the sidhe). You'd think that this melange of traditions wouldn't work together, but they do and the result is a fascinating story that kept me turning the pages.
Christal: I agree, I really liked the mix of different magic types though I am still a little unclear about how the sidhe are going to fit into everything. It was kind of neat to see Peter's family have more connection to the mystical world than we first thought. I'm guessing we haven't seen all of it yet though or perhaps some distant... cousins... might make an appearance. Mercy and Peter's relationship also grew and changed in this book and I'm wondering how it will be affected by the things we learned about his family.
AH: We learn of the extent of Peter's love for Mercy. It's funny, Peter never really struck me as being the one for Mercy in the first book. He was there, he was available, but she wasn't really sold on him. In this book, you really see how much he loves Mercy and how he's been in love with her ever since she was a little girl. He is very protective of her and runs to her aid. I also like that Peter wants to provide for Mercy on his own. I still didn't get why the love charm was such a big deal - he loved her and just wanted to seal the deal.
Christal: I was never 100% sold on Peter either and, honestly, I'm still not. Something always feels just a little off in their relationship to me. It's obvious that he loves her, though I'm still not sure Mercy loves him equally, but sometimes I wonder if he might take it to obsession levels. That's what worries me about the love charm... when Mercy sought one for herself, that was one thing. But for Peter to go to Jilo and have a charm put on Mercy, that seems like taking away her ability to choose -- taking away her free will. That's my only worry with Peter -- that he is in love with his ideal of Mercy more so than the actual Mercy and the strong women she is turning into. I'm probably just reading too much into it though and I'm sure Mercy can handle it.
AH: Speaking of Mercy, she is coming into her powers and being trained by Mother Jilo. From what we can see, Mercy is a powerful witch and with the added training, her power grows. Also, we really begin to see the extent of Ginny's despotic rule over the family and how she controlled their powers. Holding Mercy back and siphoning her powers was not the best decision. She also held back other family members.
Christal: Yep, Ginny made a series of really bad decisions! Mercy is going to be really powerful and, instead of trying to develop her and guide her like a sane person would, Ginny just tried to stifle her and everyone around her. Look how well that turned out re: Maisie! It was interesting to find out more about Mercy and Maisie's parents... interesting yet dark...
AH: Because there has to be something sinister and creepy in the family. After all, they are witches. This is a really good skeleton in the closet and Erik really was up to no good.
Christal: I know! I was not expecting that about him; his duplicity really caught me off guard -- not to mention the type of person Mercy's mother turned out to be.
AH: Who is Mercy's mother? Personally, I think Mother Jilo was more of a mother than Emily could have ever been.
Christal: I agree, Jilo truly cared about Mercy in a way Emily could never have understood. It was amazing how many new characters we met in this story, yet I never felt like they took away from Mercy and her family's story. They just helped to add layers and dimension to everything that was going on.
AH: This book has a nice diversity of characters - colors, religions, and sexual orientation.
Christal: Agreed, the cast is very colorful -- especially when you take into account some of the... less than human... characters like Emmett.
AH: In many ways, his name suits him so well. Emmett means Truth and he helps Mercy learn about herself. He is a bit aloof and head over heels in love with her, but still, there is no better protector than a golem. Oh, and nice touch with Emmett's creator Rivkah.
Christal: Oh yeah, loved Rivkah! I can't wait to see how her actions at the end of the book and Mercy's ultimatum to the witch council affect the story in The Void.
Thank you to Netgalley and 47North for providing an ARC copy of this book! -
Part of the problem of reading the next book in a series is forgetting what happened and feeling left out the story. With The Source, this was not the case. All the characters came rushing back and there was enough recap on the backstory to trigger my memory but too much either.
I wasn't so much in love with the story as I was with the characters, though my favorite one didn't make it. I will definitely read the next one in the series as I'm not ready to give up these people yet.
