| Title | : | How to Dance an Undead Waltz (The Beginners Guide to Necromancy, #4) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 310 |
| Publication | : | First published August 19, 2018 |
Grier is nursing a broken heart after Boaz announced his engagement to another woman, but life goes on. Or it would if vampire assassins would stop taking pot shots at her every time she leaves Woolworth House. Seriously, who sends archers to deliver murdergrams these days?
To protect herself, Grier must pull out all the stops, even if it means revealing her darkest secret. All eyes are on her, and — for the first time — she begins to understand why Linus wears so many masks. But the target isn’t Grier, and when the archers single him out, it feels like one of their arrows might have struck what remains of her heart.
How to Dance an Undead Waltz (The Beginners Guide to Necromancy, #4) Reviews
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There comes a time in the life of a book series when a black tie event has to happen. It's the law. Everyone must be dressed up and at least one person has to be shocked speechless about how good another person looks. There also must be at least one ugly scene at these events too. A murder, an evil person's grand entrance, a run-in with a catty ex - that kind of thing. In this case, we get a ball, and at least two of those three things happen.
Bitches love dancing.
As we lead up to the ball, we get to see Grier go through her post break-up depression with losing both her bestie and boyfriend. Luckily, she has the delicious Linus to take up the slack in the boy department and the hilarious Lethe to take the BFF slot over. By the end of the book Grier is so happy that it makes you wonder how great the two exes are when they were so easily replaced. Let's face it, you don't want to be someone so utterly bad at anything that basically anyone can come in, take your job, and be better at it than you ever were.
The name alone tells you it's going to be better at its job.
As usual there are also a lot of things trying to either kill or kidnap Grier. There is never a shortage of action in these books. I feel like the series is getting better as it goes on.
So... hm..
See ya after the next one. -
Getting over heartbreak can be hard, especially when your crush announces his engagement to another, but when everyone is out to kill or control you, well it makes it easier to forget and move on.
This next installment in the Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy is full of action, suspense, & major revivals. Grier finds her footing in an Undead Waltz. She’s finally finding that her heart has taken a liking to Linus now that she spends more time with him, but her brain hasn’t yet caught up. I’m so happy with Linus. He’s patient. In this novel we get to see more of him and Grier is the only one who see's all of him. It’s a wonderful blooming romance. I just love where things are going in the plot and romance department.
"You're the only one who sees me, who's ever wanted to see all of me." His hand was a cool weight that reassured, and when he brushed his lips over my hair, I leaned into him. "I'm never realer than when I'm with you."
The story is entertaining, enjoyable, and the surprises keep coming. The necromancer angel is intriguing along with the goddess-touched aspect in Grier’s heritage. Edwards writing is easy and once you start this book you aren’t going to want to put it down. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Note: You do need to read this series in order.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Hailey Edwards with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
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This next step in Grier's story is filled with action, suspense, and so much Linus that I can just die happy.
Really, this was just everything that I wanted.
Grier and the gang (aka Linus, Cletus, and her new gwyllgi pack) are in the midst of so much delicious drama. Not only is the threat of the Master, Grier's supposed grandfather, still hanging over her head, but death is coming for her. As if being kidnapped wasn't enough, someone is still gunning for her, and they're armed with weapons specifically designed to hurt those who care about her, who help protect her.
How to Dance an Undead Waltz is like one of those Russian nesting dolls. Take whatever you see on the surface, and there are going to be hidden surprises in every layer. Even though Grier has made some progress in discovering who/what she is, she's still learning more and developing her skills. She's starting to do some pretty amazing things that could be life-changing discoveries for the Necromancers' society.
What I like the most about these surprises is that I understand them. Even though I really did not see some of them coming, they're believable; they fit perfectly into the story-line that has been laid out before us. For me, that's perfection. I love a good twist, a good little shock that makes me just smack myself in the face because wow, it makes perfect sense.
Now, one thing I've learned is that I need to stop reading these books in the dead of night when I'm pretending to actually be asleep. There are just too many moments that made me want to scream, squeal, and do the awkward happy dance that is reflexive whenever I dive into one of Edwards' delightful stories.
I just love her characters so much because they keep developing. Grier is slowly piecing herself back together, and I adore the confidence that she's starting to own. She might be a little bit broken, but she's far from irreparable. Her little snarky moments have made me snort with laughter (embarrassing, but I OWN THIS), and the utter loyalty and compassion that she shows to pretty much every person, undead parrot, and gwyllgi in her life just makes me want to be her friend. She's coming into her own, and I like that she's being pushed to figure out how to not just survive the High Society life, but to make it her b*tch.
Now, Linus. Dear lord, I swear he has pissed off so many of my other book crushes because every time I open one of Edwards' books, I just love him even more. His self-sacrificing attitude is both maddening and endearing; I love that he continues to Grier, in any way he can, that she is someone who deserves admiration, who deserves care, who deserves to be strong. The chemistry between them is one of a true partnership, and it's just written beautifully. Whereas Boaz would express his love through cloistering Grier away, Linus lets her be free to choose her own risks no matter how much he burns to protect her.
The gwyllgi are also fabulous, but Lethe is the pack MVP this time. Lethe was a wonderful, delightful surprise. With Amelie being in the dog [carriage] house, I was a little worried that Grier would be missing out on a friendship to help keep her grounded, to give her a fun outlet; as much as I love him, she can't depend on Linus for everything. Instead, we have Lethe. She's confident, sassy, and she's exactly what Grier needs right now. I think the two of them are going to be a wonderfully fun duo, and I'm really looking forward to seeing their friendship develop.
As you can probably guess, I really can't say enough wonderful things about How to Dance an Undead Waltz . The action is meaningful, the relationships progress, the characters strengthen and grow, and this book just gave me so much joy. -
I’m not sure I have the words to tell you how much I adored this book. Hailey Edwards has skyrocketed to one of the top spots in my favorite author list and I’m now at the point where I will read anything she writes. Because it’s gold, guys. And as much as I love her Foundling books—and believe me, I do—this book has put the Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy series as my new favorite from her. One of my favorite urban fantasy series, period.
Spoilers from book three ahead. If you haven’t read the previous books already, stop and go read them now. They are best enjoyed in order and they are all fantastic.
So as this book begins, Grier is reeling from an awful betrayal from her boyfriend and her best friend. Boaz is engaged to another woman and Amelie knew he was doing it. These are garbage people and I want to set them on fire. But at the same time, I’m so very glad to have Boaz out of the picture as a love interest because it clears the way for the man Grier SHOULD be with… Linus.
To frame my review entirely in the context of Linus wouldn’t be fair, but let’s be real. He is what I loved most about this book. This man is fascinating. He is crazy powerful. He’s mysterious. He’s brilliant. And at the same time, he’s shy and sweet and utterly in love with Grier. Every time he blushes, my heart beats double time. Every time he looks away from her… every time he says something heartfelt under his breath. I am swooning again just thinking about it. I love the way he loves her and it’s just so lovely watching her realize it.
Yes, yes. Other things are happening too. Someone has put a bounty on Grier’s head, and Linus and her bodyguard pack have to work overtime to keep her safe. But (another point for Linus) she is never forced to hide. Linus is still teaching her about her magic and her guards are teaching her self defense. The mystery is intensifying about what Maud was hiding in the basement—and it turns out to be exactly what I’d hoped for.
There’s a ton of action, angst, and emotion. I loved to hate Boaz. I loved to love Linus. And Grier is coming into her own, becoming more adept with her powers every day. As she turns her back on her old life, her new one just keeps getting richer. I cannot wait to read more from this series. I completely recommend you try it too.
Rating: A -
This series really is getting better and better as more unfolds into Grier's past and her future. Love these characters and the diverse cast. I even love where the romance is going and have been rooting for it from the beginning. There is just something about a brooding hero with a heart of gold that is so very hard to resist.
Can't wait for more! -
This is fourth in a UF series. Read them in order.
By now, you know what you're getting. The stakes are rising, but Grier and Linus are gathering resources in their own way, too. And I really, really like Grier and Linus together. And after finishing this one, I suddenly realized that at least a little bit of why I like Linus is because he's the nice guy who doesn't finish last. Of course, it doesn't hurt that he's a tatted hardboy rocking long hair. But still, Boaz was the bad boy Grier pined for for a long time and Linus is the one who won in the end. No wonder I ship them so very much.
Speaking of, I hated even the little page space Boaz got in this one (though I liked Grier's handling of it). I kind of wish Edwards had just let him slink into obscurity because he's becoming something of a grotesque in the older sense of the word as someone misshapen and enlarged to make them figures of scorn and indignation.
This has enough holding pattern, and enough Boaz, to keep it down to four stars. But I'm liking where it's going and am eager for the next.
A note about Chaste: Thank heaven Grier's heart is resilient, but it isn't such a bouncer that we get to any sexy times in this book. So it's still very chaste. -
I have been having a blast reading through Edwards‘ novels. The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy has it all, from a magical house to a wraith. Grier Woolworth is a necromancer who is goddess-touched. With each volume we discover more about her abilities. Because this is urban fantasy I recommend that you read the series in order of release. Each novel deals with a new threat against Grier as she hones her skills and finds herself.
“Make no apologies for surviving?”
In How to Dance an Undead Waltz, vampires are firing arrows at Grier and she is assisting Linus with a resurrection as part of her training. She is also organizing her coming out party as Dame Woolworth. Once again I was quickly pulled into the story from the death threats to family shenanigans.
Secondary characters, particularly the shifters add humor, tension and friendship to the mix. Between arranging for the ball, gathering ingredients for the ritual and the vampire attacks, Linus and Grier spent more time together. I adore Linus and loved seeing the changes in Grier’s thinking about him!
We see developments concerning the basement of the Woolworth house and oh my is all I have to say. The ball, twists and discoveries kept me reading into the wee hours.
“How can you tell when someone loves the real you and not the idea of you?” “They see you at your lowest,” he said softly, pitching his voice so Cruz had no hope of overhearing, “and they don’t blink. They don’t offer you a hand up, they offer you a hand to hold while you rise on your own.”
Edwards offers a nice blend of action, suspense, snark and swoon. I am curious to see what the author has in store for Grier and the gang.I hope you’ll read or listen to How to Dance an Undead Waltz and the rest of the series.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer -
Edwards really did the developing feelings between Linus and Grier well. I enjoyed reading it as much as the rest of the story. I didn’t think I’d say it, but I’m so glad Boaz is out of the picture! This is a great UF series. Recommended.
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How to Dance an Undead Waltz (Beginner's Guide to Necromancy #4) by
Hailey Edwards
'How to Dance an Undead Waltz' is the 4th book in the TBGTN Series. Grier Woolworth thought she found love with Boaz Prichard but it was no happily ever after and she is now trying to mend the remnants of her heart. Meanwhile, Grier is running from one assassination attempt to the next which is endangering everyone around her and trying to come to terms with being a goddess-touched necromancer. With her dark reality and the life she had been starting to build getting burned to ashes, will she be able to rise above and find those responsible before it's too late?
I know, I know, I have said this a bazillion times in my reviews of Hailey Edwards but her writing style is my jam. I become hooked every. single. TIME! Her character development and the twists keep you on the edge of your seat while you are reading and I love it! This book was no different and definitely did not disappoint. The ending 'feeds my soul' as Neely would say. Spoilers will start here so beware!!!! Also, important to mention that I received a free advanced copy of this book in return of an honest review.
I feel like Grier is finally coming into her own in this book. She is finding her strength and becoming confident in herself with the help of those around her. She builds some amazing relationships with the Kinase pack (Lethe, Hood, and Midas) and I am so glad Neely is back (I loved their reunion in Chapter 17). I was a bit surprised about the turn of events with Cricket-I knew there had to be a story there (and it is a gut wrenching one, and no, I am not going to spoil it) and sad that Grier's days as a Haint are more or less over. I am not sad that Amelie is still in the proverbial 'dog house' tho-that girl needs to sort out her life. I love the fact that Grier has started to use the line 'Make no excuses for surviving' with confidence in this book. It is still my favorite all time quote throughout this series but I feel like when Grier brings it up in book #4 it's with conviction/confidence/truth, she believes it, and instead of using it to support just herself through the rough spots she helps those around her with the same reminder.
Grier & Linus, Linus & Grier, thank the goddess! Their exchange in the van with Tony when he asked if they were an 'item' did a great job setting the pace for how their relationship would play out in this book. I enjoyed the line "The Potentate of Atlanta held my stare, almost daring me to tremble before him, but I had found the seams where his masks met his true face, and we both knew he would let me pry away this facade if I chose." So many 'feels' with these two-' "Grier." My name tore from his lips. No. Deeper. He made it sound as if it were wrenched from his soul.' Hailey does such an amazing job with her writing, I always feel like I'm immersed right into these scenes and become so invested in what happens. Oh and the kitchen scene in Chapter 3, "Are you sure you're okay with this?" Linus watched my lips part around the straw before sliding his focus to my throat as it worked over the frosty mix. "Yes" he rasped. "I don't mind." WOAH PONY! I could totally quote this book ALL DAY LONG. These two NEED a couple name-I mean come on, High Society has got to have a tabloid that could dub them with an awesomely amazing couple name now that Grier made a statement by having her first 3 dances with Linus at the ball.
Can we talk some cool additions to this book? I love Lethe-she is amazing and Orestes like a cool character with an interesting story. I love the scene with Orestes and Grier talking about Maud. ' "You softened her," Orestes confided after the drink was to her liking. "None of us expected her to adopt you when Evie passed. Until the Funeral, I would have sworn on the goddess's light she didn't possess a maternal bone in her body. But she held you on her lap that day during the service while you cried against her neck, your fingers curled in her hair, and I witnessed the shift in her perspective." ' I could totally see a prequel series featuring Maud and Evie. Also, getting to meet Grier's grandfather, Gaspard Lacroix finally helped to resolve some of my questions and his unexpected help at the end, hmmm.... interesting.
Things I missed from this book compared to others? I feel like Wooly is less active in this book, I know we can't have it all or the book would drag or be forever long. But I missed her voice a bit in this book, she seemed more of a background player compared to previous books. I definitely have a lot of questions after reading this book but I also feel I have resolution with past questions too-so it was a great balance for me. If you are hoping for any earth shattering revelations with the Merchand family-not the right book, I have a good feeling we will see more of them in future books. Also, if you are hoping for more Boaz-sorry to say his ship has sailed, I do miss some of their fun banter but overall I am actually not sad about this change.
Some super exciting news-I just found out Hailey is expected to release TWO more books in this series instead of the one originally predicted!!!!! I will take as much TBGTN as I can get! She has also been hinting at her spin off series when she concludes Grier's story arc (YES!). As a wrap up-I thought this was an amazing book and this series is turning into one my favorite series by Edwards, Black Dog series remains ranked #1 but boy, oh boy it's close. I read it all in about a 48 hour time period, only because I had to put it down to 'adult' (ha ha!). Thanks for reading my review! I hope you love this book and series, it is very much worth a read.
Meg -
2020 Winter Bingo (#SnowInLoveBingo❄️): Family Drama
Finally the ship pays off! The best character remains Woolly, the sentient house. Read via KU. -
I was honored with an advanced readers copy, which had me leaping and squealing with joy. Here is my honest, no spoiler review:
I’m in such a swoon worthy mood, that reviewing is very difficult. So so SO much more Linus in this book and I loved every moment.
This book ended way to quickly for me and I never wanted this story to stop. I couldn’t even look at my % because I knew I would be terribly disappointed. So I give this 4.5 stars solely based on my greed for more Grier.
This book is different from the rest because I can feel the confidence. The growth. The self acceptance in Grier. There was very little Boaz or any real craziness imo. However, major relationship building. Not just romantic relationships, but trust and understanding, forgiveness and acceptance. With Grier, and everyone around her. Including enemies.
There are some situations where I was left confused or questioning, that will probably be answered in the next book. So I’m not too concerned.
There is a scroll, that I just KNEW would happen. But, wasn’t handled in any horrible way. I was impressed with the decisions based off of the finding.
Also, can we have a Midas spin off? I love their characters and I really wish the next book was like, 600 pages so I can have more Hood and Midas story lines. Also, more traveling and Cletus. Gosh I could go on forever.
I will be rereading this and the others while crazily waiting for the next installment. -
I can now definitively say I am completely and utterly hooked on this series. If I was ever in doubt, this book did it. The writing, the depth of the characters, as well as the intricate and addicting storylines have improved with each book written. This installment is absolutely everything one might want in a superb Urban Fantasy.
I don’t recommend it as a stand-alone,however. It is all the building from previous installments that make this story so riveting. I love how Grier has grown and matured. I love, LOVE Linus, his devotion and how he has cared and cherished Grier while supporting and allowing her to stand on her own.
My only request moving forward... PAH LEASE don’t tear them apart just for a plotline twist’s sake! IMHO the very best of the best in Urban Fantasy series (Kate Daniels, Mercy Thompson anyone?!?) allow the couple to go through trials etc. while somehow finding ways to stay together and grow stronger. When an author is lucky enough to hit on such a perfect couple as this one, walking away is tantamount to disaster (that’s just how much I love and am invested in these stories!) -
The best one yet in this series. I am definitely Team Grinus! Adored Wooley as always, and I'm really loving the Gwyllgi!
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LOVED IT!
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This was awesome. I loved seeing Grier slowly coming on to her own and taking her place in society on her terms. I was so glad she has cut off Boaz & his sister from her life. Honestly with time we outgrow some people and relationships. Linus as usual was awesome. I loved how the plot moved forward with revelations of her half-vampire side and her maternal side of the family. I love the people Grier is surrounding herself with. I really think the author nicely closed the door on Boaz which made total sense. He was this "teenage" ideal who she loved but never grew in love with. Now, Linus was the perfect man for her who allowed her to be who she was without trying to change or influence her. I really can't wait for the next installment.
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**4.5 stars but let’s round up to 5**
Words can hardly, adequately describe how much I’m enjoying this series. I don’t use the word masterful a lot but seriously, Hailey Edwards is reminding me why I like urban fantasy series with recurring characters so much.
In this installment, we are following up with Grier who is nursing a shattered heart. She found out her childhood crush is getting engaged after being ghosted for weeks. He had finally gotten her hopes up that they would become something more but, for him, family obligations was stronger than supposed love. On top of losing her crush, she also lost her best friend. Just one too many betrayals. So now Grier is continuing to focus on her studies with Linus and now training with her new dog-lizard family in the form of Hood, Midas and Lethe.
While trying to pick up the human side of her life, Hood and Grier are attacked with bow and arrow. This begins a series of vampire attacks. Grier assumes it’s the master but there are other enemies on the list as well. Linus presents the idea that Grier should have a ball both to bring all her enemies together and gauge who is trying to kill her but also to show that Dame Woolworth is a force of her own to be reckoned with. We learn about genetic history sigils, finally get into Maud’s sanctuary and learn the identity of not only the master but of Grier’s father. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg where plot development is concerned.
“We can love people for all the right reasons or every wrong one. We can love them despite their faults or because of them. But true love, actual love, isn’t about making exceptions. It’s about being the exception.”
I just have to spend my last paragraph talking about how much I love Linus. We were originally led to believe he was the enemy or that he at least had ulterior motives where his mother was concerned. He also made a terrible first impression which he has since made up for in spades. In the last book, Grier was starting to see glimpses of the real Linus that he doesn’t let anyone sees. He wears many masks and he’s always been honest about that. Throughout this story we got a lot of poignant moments between Grier and Linus and also a natural progression of their chemistry. Grier struggles to try and not to compare to Boaz because he was more alpha with his affections but he also wanted to wrap Grier in a bubble before he ghosted her. Linus on the other hand is able to read and understand Grier better than she can herself sometimes. Everyone knows Linus has carried a torch for her for quite sometime, including Grier, but he’s always buried his affection because he knew how she felt about Boaz. Even when Grier realizes just how amazing a man Linus is, he still wants her to be sure it’s what she truly wants. I recently learned the term “cinnamon roll hero” and that’s totally Linus. He’s a wealth of information but has never felt he was more worthy except to be used as a pawn in the grand scheme of things. Grier helps him to admit and show his feelings more and I absolutely adored seeing him open up little by little because when it finally exploded over it was fiery and beautiful and I only just barely stopped my tears of joy.
And with that, I’m off to book 5 which I already started right after closing book 4. -
Grier is trying to get over Boaz’s decision to marry someone else and has evicted Amalie to the carriage house for her house arrest. That means Linus has to move into Wolly. This new living arrangement allows Grier to begin to see Linus in a new light. He is continuing to teach her how to be a proper necromancer and has accepted a contract for a resuscitation, but when they start to gather the items necessary, it becomes clear that someone is attacking both Maud’s memory and Linus.
This one was so adorable. We’ve got Grier realizing that her heart isn’t quite a broken as it should be and that the guy she’s never really “seen” has been subtle, but meaningful, in his attention to her, is the ideal person for her. Oh, it’s beautiful. Poor Linus has never thought he was worthy of anyone’s attention and Grier decides she is going to be the one to get through to him. Cue the romantic music. I’m totally shipping the two of them. -
Review posted on
Got Fiction?
This book released early and I dropped everything to read it. I'm so glad I did. I was left an emotional wreck after book 3. In my last review, I mentioned that I'd never been fully sold on Boaz as a love interest. His personality annoyed me. But I wanted to give him a chance, and now I know why he didn't work for me. He was Grier's childhood crush. The problem with those is that as you grow up, you can grow out of them. Being that she grew from teenager to adult in a drug-induced haze in a magical prison, she's been through some stuff. Boaz was who 16 year old Grier wanted. But who does 21 year old Grier want?
This leads us to Linus. And while I know this series isn't romance, it's Urban Fantasy, I feel that it's important to notice that Grier is growing up and changing. Linus is adapting with her/for her. Boaz just steamrolled her. I'd be okay with Grier being single and finding herself, I mean, she's so young and has only been back in the world for a few months, but at the same time, I really like Linus.
I like how Grier is assembling her own family, so to speak. She's surrounding herself with friends she can trust, and since her best friends since childhood betrayed her, trusting is not an easy thing. But this new pack she's making for herself seems to be good for her. Especially since she's still making a place for herself as Dame Woolworth.
Meanwhile, there's still a bounty on her head and every time she leaves her house, someone attempts to either kidnap her or kill her. She can't stay cooped up in the house for the rest of her life, though. Linus has her assist him in turning someone into a vampire (remember, in this world the necromancers change people into vampires), but nothing can go smoothly can it?
Grier clearly has Power with a capital P. But when her guardian Maud realized what she was, she hid Grier's powers from both their world, and Grier herself. In the past couple of books we've been seeing what Grier is capable of, and it's gonna be huge. But I really want her to get more information. I feel like everyone is hiding something from her, and in turn us, the readers. It drives me nuts.
I like watching her navigate her new life. She may have been brought up in the Society, but after 5 years in a magical prison, her outlook has changed. She sees the scheming, the power struggles, the people, all in a different light. I really loved the twist at the end. I'm incredibly curious about her mother's side of the family, but even more so about her father's.
I wanted more.
I hope that she can catch a break, but in a world like hers, I have a feeling her life is going to be one challenge after another until she snaps and shows everyone what she can do. The thing of it is, I don't know if that would be a good thing or a bad thing. But after that ball, everyone knows who her father was, and things got a bit trickier to navigate. I can't wait to see where Ms. Edwards takes us from here.
If you haven't started this series, you should. I am really loving the world, the characters, the magic, all of it! -
Didn't think I could like it less, but it happened. I swore I wouldn't continue with this series, but available audiobooks are hard to find so I figured I'd use this one for now. My mistake. I dislike this book of the series the most. Probably because she spends the majority of it complaing about not having hips or boobs. Then her friend tells her to get fake ones. 🙄
Some of us are born skinny and it isn't terrible to have slim hips and chest. It normally doesn't bother me, because if you had boobs and then lost them, I can see wanting them back. BUT she bitches about it over and over and over in this book and it became more unbearable as the book went on. Probably rubbed me more than the average as I'm a naturally slender person, but I like my size.
I guess that's my punishment for continuing the series! 😅 -
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I have really enjoyed every book in the
Beginner's Guide to Necromancy series , and have been fortunate to listen to them all on audio. They are all on Kindle Unlimited as well. So I am trying to do a review without too many spoilers, and not just repeat the blurb.
Throughout this series, Grier has been building up her adult life, learning to live on her own and develop her skills. It hasn't been easy because she is often so alone and friends often aren't really friends or do things to betray her. I have never been a fan of Boaz and I am not happy with him in How to Dance an Undead Waltz either.
She finally has a teacher, in Linus, but can he be trusted? It's hard for anyone because if you let them in they can hurt you. Linus has been amazing and I'm really rooting for him. He understands Grier and is letting her see him. Plus he is always encouraging and praises her skills. People are out to kill them, so they began to protect each other. I love that Grier is able to better defend them now after some training and practice of her skills.
Throughout Grier has also been slowly learning about her mother and now we learn a bit more about her father. Plus there's a breakthrough which lets us learn more about Maud and her plans for Grier. Grier is starting to recall more in her dreams of the night Maud died, so we may learn more about it in the future also.
I LOVE the development in this story and how much time she gets to spend with Linus. Some of the problems are figured out and somewhat resolved, but there is more ahead. I can't wait!!! How to Live An Undead Lie is projected for January 1, 2019.
Narration:
I continue to enjoy Rebecca Mitchell as Grier and also as Linus. The other characters aren't as important to me, so other than Oscar, I didn't notice them so much. She does a nice job with Neely too. I listened at my usual 1.25x speed. I loved this one and listened as much and as often as possible.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/user-149056452...
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I've had a wicked streak of reading awesome books that are everything I need them to be recently and Grier's latest adventure just continues that streak. I'm honestly swooning over the slow burn we have going on now that Boaz has shown his true colors and is (mostly) out of Grier's life.
*swoon* *draws glittery hearts around everyone and everything*
(Which isn't to say I think everything is going to go smoothly for our newest power couple, but things are moving in the right direction and I'm giddy about it. Grier needs someone firmly in her corner and, no matter how his allegiances might be divided between his duty to his city and mother, I still think Linus will ultimately be a stronger ally [and more] than Boaz could ever be. He's got her back in every way he can and Grier needs that. Big time.)
Beyond the slow simmer of romance, the mystery of what Grier is and what she's capable of continues to unfurl. The more she learns about her abilities the stronger she becomes and with all these enemies coming out of the woodwork she needs to figure things out as fast as possible.
Grier has friends, enemies, and people in between and I'm ready and willing to see how it all plays out. Bring it!
-Kelly @
Reading the Paranormal -
This series is great!
I love Grier and Linus! They are so freaking cute together! I am loving the slow-burn romance, bit there is way more to this story than that. Grier has a crazy estranged family on both sides, and it looks like things may take a turn for the worse with a blood fued hanging over Woolworth house. Lot's of action, sleuthing, necromancy, and yes, a ball! -
How to Dance an Undead Waltz absolutely blew me away! There were so many parts of this book that I had to put it down and breath for a moment. The action is non stop, the writing just draws you in like no other author I've read before.
Lethe and Hood are such a great part of this book. I really enjoyed seeing her and Grier becoming good friends. And not to spoil anything but, oh Linus. Linus made this book for me. I will be a fan for life of Hailey Edwards. This series is everything I've ever wanted in a book. -
I seriously, seriously enjoyed this book. It's a great addition to this series that IMO just keeps getting better
Linus, Linus, Linus.....what can I say but I adore him :) Soooo much better than Boaz
Grier is trying to find her balance and I think takes a few steps in the right direction in this book
My one small complaint is that for about the first quarter I was scrambling to remember all the players, their names and back story - this made for a rocky beginning. -
I hope you are following this series that way I am, which is bingeing. Because it's worth it. I am worth it. *grins*
Grier does a ball. Grier who until recently lived on noodle soup and frozen waffles has to go all out to flash out the villain who tries to abduct/kill her all the time. And Linus is right there to support her all no matter what.
I am firmly Team Linus, by the way. He is adorable in his many layers of love for Grier. And the more I, as a reader, find out about him, the more endearing he becomes.
The half-fae pack which starts living next toWoolly is a hoot as well, and I love the way Grier collects beings who want to fiercely protect her and yet have this easy sassy banter which doesn't allow her to slack off or become puffed up with her own importance.
The plot thickens, the world continues opening up and expanding, and the ending is suitably fascinating for me to delve straight into the next and latest book in the series. Very much recommended. Especially for the fans of Kim Harrison, Darynda Jones and Charlaine Harris.
* * *
Я надеюсь, что вы также зачитываетесь этой серией как и я. Потому, что она этого стоит.
��риер устраивает бал. Гриер, которая до последнего времени жила на инста-супе и замороженных вафлях, надеется с помощью Линуса и его мамы вывести наружу злодея, который постоянно за ней охотится, и личность которого ей неизвестна.
Я кстати полностью за Команду Линус. Ну такой он милашка в его глубокой, многослойной привязанности к Гриер, которую она в сравнении с Боазом все больше и больше ценит.
И вообще у нее уникальная способность подбирать существ, которые не только остаются ей преданны до последнего, но и дают ей под зад в шуточных перепалках, чтобы она не зевала, не жаловалась и становилась сильнее как личность и лучше как друг. Например, стая собак полу-фэ, которые быстро становятся ее друзьями, вступая в роль Амели.
Сюжет сгущается, мир продолжает развиваться и раскрываться, и концовка этот книги такова, что я тут же начала читать продолжение. Очень рекомендую, особенно поклонникам Даринды Джонс, Ким Харрисон и Шарлэйн Харрис. -
My favorite so far! This series is just getting better and better. I love the direction Greer is heading and her new friendships. I also love her evolving relationship with Linus. We learn a whole lot more about Greer and what she is and what she might be capable of in this book and it's exciting. I'm glad to see that she's sticking to her guns about Boaz and it's sad that he doesn't even understand that what he did was just wrong. I really didn't miss Amelie either and I enjoy her new friendships much more. Greer has definitely started to let go of the girl she was and started to be the woman she can be and I for one am excited to continue this journey with her.
-
Review originally posted at
http://smexybooks.com/2018/09/review-...
Favorite Quote:Once upon a time, I had wanted to corrupt the boy next door.
From here, the boy down the hall was looking ripe for debauching to me.
Before I get into my review I just want to say I can’t believe there are people who still haven’t started reading this series yet. It’s crazy good. CRAZY, SPOOKY, OMG WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT GOOD. I picked up the first book because the blurb was so intriguing, but now I’m pretty much in gimmegimmegimme, wantwantwant, stalk the author’s website and twitter profiles to see when the next book is coming mode all the time.
The fourth installment in The Beginner’s Guide to Necromancy series picks up right where book three left off. Grier is still coming to grips with accepting the betrayal of the two people who she trusted the most… her childhood crush and ex-boyfriend Boaz and her best friend Amelie. Boaz has revealed that he is engaged to another woman and intends to marry her. He says to better his family, I think he’s being a selfish bastard. The worst though, is that his sister Amelie knew all along. WTF PEOPLE? This means Amelie has moved into the carriage house and Linus into Woolly. Where he belongs.
Grier is slowly learning her role as Dame Woolworth and coming to grips with her powers. Thankfully she has Linus to help her along the way. Since learning of her unique parentage they’ve expanded on her lessons and Linus is experimenting with Grier’s diet in order to help her body get in better shape. Her gwyllgi protectors, the Kinase Pack, have moved on to Woolly’s grounds, not only offer protection, but to continue on with her self-defense lessons. Grier is always surrounded by chaos and in How to Dance an Undead Waltz she is once again the center of a storm of conflict. There is a bounty on her head, but no one knows who or why or even how much her death is worth. Linus has convinced her to throw a ball as Dame Woolworth, which will be her very first public event since gaining her inheritance. AND the mystery that is Maud’s basement will finally be revealed. It’s good y’all. It’s really, really good.
I love Grier. I love her so much. She is one of the reasons I keep reading and open the next book in the series as soon as it hits my Kindle. But she isn’t my favorite character in this series. Linus is. Which is kind of shocking considering my first impression of him was a one-dimensional, wimpy, odd, untrustworthy distant relation. Then came book three and his transformation into this mysterious, sexy, powerful, brilliant man who loves Grier unconditionally and has since they were both children. I like that he knows when to stand in front of Grier when she needs protection and behind her when she needs support. He always, always, always does what is right for her, whether that is to his benefit or not. Now that Boaz is out of the picture and has messed up any chance with Grier, she is free now to see what has always been right there patiently waiting and hoping. I adore seeing their relationship grow and deepen. It’s so lovely.
Grier seems to be leaving her old life (but not necessarily all her old friends) behind, and is slowly embracing her new role as Dame Woolworth. I feel like the next book in the series will feature some big changes in her relationships. Familial, romantic, and friendship wise. I for one am super excited and can not wait to see what happens next.
I absolutely, 100% recommend this series. Final Grade-A -
I've loved the first books in this series, but something about this installment was lack-luster for me and I didn't like it as much.
I still like the world she created, the characters, and the storylines unfolding, but just didn't love this book. -
This Book:
In Undead Waltz Grier is still recovering from heartbreak that was caused by those that she considered family.
In order to try and move forward, she is leaning on Linus.
I just…need one thing to be real. I drifted closer until our elbows brushed as we walked. I would like that thing to be you.
The nurturing and care the wonderful woolly is languishing on her is also soothing the ragged parts of her that was caused from the events of the previous book.She didn’t have to know what I had done to be on my side. Even when I was in the wrong, she was right there with me. Yet another reason why I couldn’t have loved her more if she were flesh and bone.
She is also trying to take off her mind off all the lies, betrayals and pain caused in the previous novel by keeping herself busy with self defense lessons, participating in experiments to try to understand her unique condition and of course learning about the art of necromancy from the dashing Professor Lawson.They would have eaten up hand-poured soap from the dreamy Professor Lawson with a spoon then begged for more.
While the last novel followed Griers downward arc towards loss of family and friends/potential lovers, this novel showed Griers healing from the damage past wrongs and betrayals had inflicted on her.But Atramentous had given me perspective unique to people who had lived without hope, without light...
I loved this novel. For me, the books keep getting better and better. One of the aspects of the novel that I love the most was how mentally strong the protagonist was. Grier has suffered a lot. She has lost a lot. However, she is able to try and move forward while still trying to retain the ability to trust, open up and forgive in a realistic way. Not in a puppy and rainbows and I'm such a good person so I'll forgive because I'm a good person way.
I also loved how Grier dealt with her childhood love in a mature and (relatively) drama free way. She didn't Bella Swan. She was able to finally see past her "rose colored glasses", see him for the person he was but still acknowledge their history. Grier loved him from childhood. He was her hero. He had a huge part in her development into the person that she was/is. In a way, she will always love him. However, she is trying to focus on her own life and will not allow him to curtail her growth and ability to move on.
Lastly, Linus. I love Linus. I admittedly was interested in him from the first time he appeared at the end of book 1. What can I say? I just have a feeling sometimes. Although we have not seen all of Linus, the glimpses we have seen of some of the aspects of his personality make me more intrigued and eager to know more about him.
Overall, this book was fantastic. It was not as angsty as the last, but just as addictive.
