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Elemental Assassin #18
Sharpest Sting
The truth won’t set me free—but it will probably get me killed...
As Gin Blanco, aka the assassin the Spider, I’m used to having a target on my back. But ever since I started investigating the secret society known as the Circle, that target seems bigger than ever.
Still, I’m trying to relax and enjoy the events leading up to my friends’ wedding when I learn that an old enemy has returned to Ashland. And that’s the just beginning of my latest nightmare. Soon, I have Circle goons watching my every move, but I have no choice but to continue searching for a key piece of evidence against the evil group.
The deeper I dig, the more horrifying secrets I uncover, and the more dangerous things become for me and my friends. Just when I think I finally have a handle on things, a shocking revelation shatters my heart and leaves me with an ugly realization—that betrayal is the sharpest sting of all...
As Gin Blanco, aka the assassin the Spider, I’m used to having a target on my back. But ever since I started investigating the secret society known as the Circle, that target seems bigger than ever.
Still, I’m trying to relax and enjoy the events leading up to my friends’ wedding when I learn that an old enemy has returned to Ashland. And that’s the just beginning of my latest nightmare. Soon, I have Circle goons watching my every move, but I have no choice but to continue searching for a key piece of evidence against the evil group.
The deeper I dig, the more horrifying secrets I uncover, and the more dangerous things become for me and my friends. Just when I think I finally have a handle on things, a shocking revelation shatters my heart and leaves me with an ugly realization—that betrayal is the sharpest sting of all...
351 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2019
352 people are currently reading
1,577 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Estep
92 books11.9k followersJennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author who prowls the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
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Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
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Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
Jennifer is the author of the Elemental Assassin, Section 47, Galactic Bonds, Crown of Shards, Gargoyle Queen, and other fantasy series. She has written more than 40 books, along with numerous novellas and stories.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys hanging out with friends and family, doing yoga, and reading fantasy and romance books. She also watches way too much TV and loves all things related to superheroes.
For more information on Jennifer and her books, visit her website at www.JenniferEstep.com or sign up for her newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-....
FOLLOW JENNIFER ONLINE:
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/yyj59omw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_es...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jennifer_Estep
Amazon: https://amzn.to/39lCyX6
BookBub: https://tinyurl.com/y4dm3zso
Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/y638q98k
Jennifer's blog: https://tinyurl.com/2dj4afb
Jennifer's newsletter: http://www.jenniferestep.com/contact-...
Happy reading, everyone! 😎
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
October 11, 2019
I will ride this series until it fails off the rails, but this one was just OK for me. Nothing new or exciting happened, same old, same old.
November 12, 2019
Not great, not terrible, a little predictable, but I’m still invested and will finish the series. All in all a decent entry.
January 16, 2020
Jennifer Estep is back with another Elemental Assassin book. I wasn’t sure where exactly this series was going because there are so many books already in the series. However Estep seems to have a new idea each time. Despite this book being book eighteen in the series, I do think that it offers something different for readers.
First off, I have to say how I liked how true Gin has continued to be throughout this entire series. While I love seeing character development, Gin has reached a point where I feel like she is steady. So any obstacle or new adventure that comes her way doesn’t seem so dire anymore.
However, that is not to say that this book is lacking in action and suspense. In fact, there are a lot of interesting scenes for readers to devour. I think this book flew by so fast because I’m so used to the writing style now so it’s been a great pleasure to see Gin and the gang back in action.
July 29, 2020
Gin versus Uncle Mason (Round 1 to Uncle)
Gin and the gang are finally getting some answers as to The Circle. All roads point to Gin and Bria’s family being prominent members of this infamous group that has been running the Ashland underground from the shadows.
Now Uncle Mason has decided to put Gin to work getting him some answers to something stolen from him.
Gin doesn’t want to work for her Uncle but she has finally run into an elemental stronger than her. So the Spider has to use every resource and friend available to keep alive in this family duel.
We got some answers as to Gin’s father’s death. We also learned more about The Circle. This book was clearly a set up for a bigger showdown but it definitely got my attention. Uncle Mason seems to be the real deal, as bad as Mab Monroe. I look forward to finding out what he’s really after.
Gin and the gang are finally getting some answers as to The Circle. All roads point to Gin and Bria’s family being prominent members of this infamous group that has been running the Ashland underground from the shadows.
Now Uncle Mason has decided to put Gin to work getting him some answers to something stolen from him.
Gin doesn’t want to work for her Uncle but she has finally run into an elemental stronger than her. So the Spider has to use every resource and friend available to keep alive in this family duel.
We got some answers as to Gin’s father’s death. We also learned more about The Circle. This book was clearly a set up for a bigger showdown but it definitely got my attention. Uncle Mason seems to be the real deal, as bad as Mab Monroe. I look forward to finding out what he’s really after.
August 17, 2019
I received this ARC copy of Sharpest Sting from Jennifer Estep. This is my honest and voluntary review. Sharpest Sting is set for publication October 8, 2019.
June 17, 2020
This was more of a 3.5. It was more of a set up for future books. We learn more about the Circle and there were some exciting things that happened but overall it just felt like a transition book.
October 12, 2019
2 very disappointed stars
God, has this series always been this bad? The 'Elemental Assassin' was one of my favorite series for the past 8 years. But the last 10 books.... each one worse than the last. And basically the same. The only differences were the villains and the back story.
I've had it enough with the almighty and clairvoyant Fletcher that left clues and prepared Gin for every possible problem that she will have to face. I seriously hope that she will stumble upon a file that has absolutely nothing to do with her current fight and get all confused and shit.
I mean, it's ridiculous how in every. single. book. she has flashbacks and finds little clues that help her just in the nick of time.
The cheesy lines and situations. The amount of action that happens in two or three days. The lack of suspense because by this point you know that nothing will happen to any of the main characters. Gin is practically immortal and her friends are too important to her to ever be killed.
At the same time almost all characters are in a serious relationship but no one ever gets married (with the exception of this book where the wedding happened just to change the scene) or has children or breaks up or anything.
Also, personal curiosity. The knives, sorry, silverstone knives that she wears up her sleeves. How do they stay there? She doesn't wear a sheath or holster. And how is that she doesn't cut herself in them, especially when she gets thrown around? Magic, I guess.
So. Huge disappointment. I will probably read the very last book to see how it finally ends.
God, has this series always been this bad? The 'Elemental Assassin' was one of my favorite series for the past 8 years. But the last 10 books.... each one worse than the last. And basically the same. The only differences were the villains and the back story.
I've had it enough with the almighty and clairvoyant Fletcher that left clues and prepared Gin for every possible problem that she will have to face. I seriously hope that she will stumble upon a file that has absolutely nothing to do with her current fight and get all confused and shit.
I mean, it's ridiculous how in every. single. book. she has flashbacks and finds little clues that help her just in the nick of time.
The cheesy lines and situations. The amount of action that happens in two or three days. The lack of suspense because by this point you know that nothing will happen to any of the main characters. Gin is practically immortal and her friends are too important to her to ever be killed.
At the same time almost all characters are in a serious relationship but no one ever gets married (with the exception of this book where the wedding happened just to change the scene) or has children or breaks up or anything.
Also, personal curiosity. The knives, sorry, silverstone knives that she wears up her sleeves. How do they stay there? She doesn't wear a sheath or holster. And how is that she doesn't cut herself in them, especially when she gets thrown around? Magic, I guess.
So. Huge disappointment. I will probably read the very last book to see how it finally ends.
October 13, 2019
Sharpest Sting has Gin literally trying to save her friends and family from a -so far-unstoppable villain all by her lonesome with mixed results. The story in general was okay, however, I kept waiting for the other shoe to fall and see the calvary ride in to provide assistance, support, or even solid information...anything to help Gin knock the baddie off his high horse!
I prefer when Gin works with her friends to solve a case rather than Gin being a control freak and trying to do it all herself. Her friends are a fantastic supporting set of characters that seem to get short-changed whenever a new enemy appears and I get frustrated! For example, Owen has his own power and shouldn’t always have to be saved and Bria? I think she could be stronger in her own magic if she could actually practice and use it more. At any rate, this was a decent story with predictable moments and more loose ends to wrap up.
I prefer when Gin works with her friends to solve a case rather than Gin being a control freak and trying to do it all herself. Her friends are a fantastic supporting set of characters that seem to get short-changed whenever a new enemy appears and I get frustrated! For example, Owen has his own power and shouldn’t always have to be saved and Bria? I think she could be stronger in her own magic if she could actually practice and use it more. At any rate, this was a decent story with predictable moments and more loose ends to wrap up.
September 30, 2019
I have read every one of these books plus a novella/short story or 2 and still love them. This one starts with a bang and dead bodies as usual but it also gives us a hint of something. The action is good, the strategy is good and we have a bad guy who is almost unstoppable. All that makes for a good story, throw in a bit of the family vibe that makes this a really good series and you have another great book in the series and while this one is not a cliffhanger it does leave several threads open for future use. I can't really tell you about some of my favorite parts or it would really be major spoilers but it is a roller coaster and let us not forget Hugh Tucker who is still an huge enigma but that may be about to change . I loved it but I need a bit more resolution in the next book or 2 to get to 5 Stars for me . It still is a book you don't want to miss.
October 16, 2019
Note: this is the 18th book in an urban fantasy series; my review will contain spoilers from previous titles.
Picking up her adventures shortly after the conclusion of Winter’s Web, Gin needs to deal with the huge revelation that her uncle Mason is the head of the nefarious Circle. When they aren’t working to combat/manage the crime scene in Ashland, Bria and Gin are helping Mallory prepare for her wedding to Stuart Mosley.
Sharpest Sting provides readers with a LOT of new information about the Circle and Gin’s father, Tristian. Some of the revelations are shocking while others disturbing. Gin takes it all in, getting better at leaning on her friends for emotional support. Even on the dangerous missions, she’s learned she doesn’t have to go it alone, which I appreciate. While I had trouble digesting a few of the revelations, by the end of the book, it all felt right; a sign of good storytelling. I appreciate the forward momentum of this plotline after Gin was seemingly stuck without much new information for a while. With the revelations, some dramatic shifts in the players, and the action in this book, I feel like Gin is closing in on the Circle and the end is in sight.
I loved seeing Stuart and Mallory get their own little HEA. Both have been excellent supporting players in recent books, and they deserved a plotline of their own. The wedding also provides a fun way to bring back some of the characters we haven’t really seen in a while, and it helps showcase a couple romances that are potentially in the making.
Okay, here is my thing. I love Gin. I love her world. But at book 18, I know the mundane about Gin and her friends. The books have become repetitive and predictable, repeating facts and phrases from book to book, most notably for the first half or more of the story, making me frustrated and bored. I also continue to be frustrated with Gin’s uncanny and convenient ability to dream “memories” that provide key details for unraveling the case or catching the bad guy.
In the end, Sharpest Sting is an entertaining adventure filled with some shocking twists for Gin and her gang. Even though the books frustrate me at times, I still love the overall story.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Picking up her adventures shortly after the conclusion of Winter’s Web, Gin needs to deal with the huge revelation that her uncle Mason is the head of the nefarious Circle. When they aren’t working to combat/manage the crime scene in Ashland, Bria and Gin are helping Mallory prepare for her wedding to Stuart Mosley.
Sharpest Sting provides readers with a LOT of new information about the Circle and Gin’s father, Tristian. Some of the revelations are shocking while others disturbing. Gin takes it all in, getting better at leaning on her friends for emotional support. Even on the dangerous missions, she’s learned she doesn’t have to go it alone, which I appreciate. While I had trouble digesting a few of the revelations, by the end of the book, it all felt right; a sign of good storytelling. I appreciate the forward momentum of this plotline after Gin was seemingly stuck without much new information for a while. With the revelations, some dramatic shifts in the players, and the action in this book, I feel like Gin is closing in on the Circle and the end is in sight.
I loved seeing Stuart and Mallory get their own little HEA. Both have been excellent supporting players in recent books, and they deserved a plotline of their own. The wedding also provides a fun way to bring back some of the characters we haven’t really seen in a while, and it helps showcase a couple romances that are potentially in the making.
Okay, here is my thing. I love Gin. I love her world. But at book 18, I know the mundane about Gin and her friends. The books have become repetitive and predictable, repeating facts and phrases from book to book, most notably for the first half or more of the story, making me frustrated and bored. I also continue to be frustrated with Gin’s uncanny and convenient ability to dream “memories” that provide key details for unraveling the case or catching the bad guy.
In the end, Sharpest Sting is an entertaining adventure filled with some shocking twists for Gin and her gang. Even though the books frustrate me at times, I still love the overall story.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
November 9, 2019
I can’t believe that I am about to write this but of all of the Elemental Assassin novels this was my least favorite. It read pretty much like more of the same. Nothing really new or different. On some level I feel as though it might be better if the series draws to an end.
Well, there is a new Villain on the horizon, it is Mason Mitchell, Ginn’s Uncle and the killer of her father Tristan. He is the ultimate badass and wants Ginn to locate a ledger Fletcher stole from him. During this process we learn some unsettling news about Fletcher’s past involvement with Mason. Needless to say but everyone is shocked and bewildered:
In addition to Mason, Ginn has to deal with a psychotic Emery who has a really strong desire to kill Ginn over a ill conceived revenge plot. I just have one question for Ms. Estep, “Why does Ginn always have to get her butt kicked so badly when she is such a total badass?” I can understand it happening every now and then but not twice an installment. I’m just sayin.’
As I stated earlier, this read was more of the same for me and while it was good I question the future of this series. Oh well. I’ll just have to wait and see!
Well, there is a new Villain on the horizon, it is Mason Mitchell, Ginn’s Uncle and the killer of her father Tristan. He is the ultimate badass and wants Ginn to locate a ledger Fletcher stole from him. During this process we learn some unsettling news about Fletcher’s past involvement with Mason. Needless to say but everyone is shocked and bewildered:
In addition to Mason, Ginn has to deal with a psychotic Emery who has a really strong desire to kill Ginn over a ill conceived revenge plot. I just have one question for Ms. Estep, “Why does Ginn always have to get her butt kicked so badly when she is such a total badass?” I can understand it happening every now and then but not twice an installment. I’m just sayin.’
As I stated earlier, this read was more of the same for me and while it was good I question the future of this series. Oh well. I’ll just have to wait and see!
March 10, 2020
4 Stars... I enjoyed this read, but the writing has become predictable... It’s as if the author has the same framework and places a new enemy into the story... There are actually times I can complete a sentence before reading it based off what was written in previous books... However, I do enjoy these characters and their connection to one another... I also enjoy the overall storyline that lends to new revelations for the MC which keeps me invested as a reader... I suppose I am hoping the author will be wrapping this series up soon before it gets to the point where all aspects of the read become stale:)
April 25, 2021
Originally posted at Rantings of a Reading Addict.
The Elemental Assassin series can be counted on for a ton of action. The kind of action that has you sitting on the edge of your seat. The Sharpest Sting installment is no different. There are so many twists and turns that just when you think you know what is going on, BAM! Something happens that either threatens someone's life or is a total game changer.
I loved how all of Gin's friends and family come together to work through this dilemma. They even make surprise, "thank goodness", appearances. Sharpest Sting took me on an amazing journey and I loved every minute of it. It was exciting and anxiety-filled all the way.
The audio is spectacular! Lauren Fortang is one of my favorite narrators. Her voice and tempo really take the suspense and excitement one step further.
The Elemental Assassin series can be counted on for a ton of action. The kind of action that has you sitting on the edge of your seat. The Sharpest Sting installment is no different. There are so many twists and turns that just when you think you know what is going on, BAM! Something happens that either threatens someone's life or is a total game changer.
I loved how all of Gin's friends and family come together to work through this dilemma. They even make surprise, "thank goodness", appearances. Sharpest Sting took me on an amazing journey and I loved every minute of it. It was exciting and anxiety-filled all the way.
The audio is spectacular! Lauren Fortang is one of my favorite narrators. Her voice and tempo really take the suspense and excitement one step further.
Shelved as 'deals'
April 9, 20209 April 2020: $0.99 on Kindle
October 13, 2019
3.5/5.0
First of all, I’d like to make it clear - I LOVE this series!!! I love the quirky characters, I love that Ms. Estep can create a heroine that everyone should despise (she’s an assassin for heaven’s sake!) but infuses her with so much integrity (Yep, as unbelievable as that may sound) and human goodness that you just can’t help but love her. That is an amazing feat!! But it isn’t just Gin, it is all the secondary characters that are really the heart and soul of this series. Every single time I open an Elemental Assassin book, it’s a family reunion I’m delighted to be a part of.
That being said, this specific story was not as tightly written as previous installments. Not necessarily sloppy in places but at least lax. Aside from the main threads intentionally left dangling, (the ending is as close to a cliffhanger as one can get without shouting the word,) All those beloved secondary characters were only cardboard adornments here. Every single thing was about Gin. No one really fought alongside her (because obviously she was the only one who could save the day.). No one was really allowed into her plans (because they might get hurt.). Therefore, no one was allowed to stand in her brilliance on the page.
This was especially frustrating in the case of Owen. Rather than fight alongside her and be allowed to be a true partner, he was a complete “damsel in distress” more often than not. Talk about emasculating the guy!! Gin has to repeatedly save him! I thought he had a very strong metal magic. Good grief, could he not use it for something?!? There was only one time when it was even mentioned that he used it, and that was only in quick passing.
SOPE.... still love the characters and the world, just not this story so much.
First of all, I’d like to make it clear - I LOVE this series!!! I love the quirky characters, I love that Ms. Estep can create a heroine that everyone should despise (she’s an assassin for heaven’s sake!) but infuses her with so much integrity (Yep, as unbelievable as that may sound) and human goodness that you just can’t help but love her. That is an amazing feat!! But it isn’t just Gin, it is all the secondary characters that are really the heart and soul of this series. Every single time I open an Elemental Assassin book, it’s a family reunion I’m delighted to be a part of.
That being said, this specific story was not as tightly written as previous installments. Not necessarily sloppy in places but at least lax. Aside from the main threads intentionally left dangling, (the ending is as close to a cliffhanger as one can get without shouting the word,) All those beloved secondary characters were only cardboard adornments here. Every single thing was about Gin. No one really fought alongside her (because obviously she was the only one who could save the day.). No one was really allowed into her plans (because they might get hurt.). Therefore, no one was allowed to stand in her brilliance on the page.
This was especially frustrating in the case of Owen. Rather than fight alongside her and be allowed to be a true partner, he was a complete “damsel in distress” more often than not. Talk about emasculating the guy!! Gin has to repeatedly save him! I thought he had a very strong metal magic. Good grief, could he not use it for something?!? There was only one time when it was even mentioned that he used it, and that was only in quick passing.
SOPE.... still love the characters and the world, just not this story so much.
March 26, 2021
A good installment, though predictable. Gin is so full of herself but she continues to make mistakes, get caught and almost killed. It wouldn’t bother me if she didn’t have an over inflated ego. But at least now, she has an adult relationship with her boyfriend.
It’s easy to get lost in this series and be entertained though.
Narration is great as always.
It’s easy to get lost in this series and be entertained though.
Narration is great as always.
June 21, 2023
5 🌟
Nice to see Gin and her friends back in another adventure. Also nice to finally meet her uncle.
Nice to see Gin and her friends back in another adventure. Also nice to finally meet her uncle.
July 1, 2020
I have been following along with Gin’s adventures since book one, Spider’s Bite, so you can say that I am invested in Gin and all of her friends… and enemies. As with any series there are some books that aren’t as great, but Sharpest Sting by Jennifer Estep is another great addition to the Elemental Assassin series!
As with any long running series I find my review to be short because I don’t want to spoil anything for those who have been along for the ride with me and to really say anything other then, very well developed characters and awesome world building, to those starting the series, well, it won’t mean much.
So if you are new to the series, buy this book right away to support an excellent author, but also start with the first book so you can be like the cool kids and have all the inside info.
And if you’ve been enjoying Gin from the beginning, this book throws a major bomb at you in regards to the Tin Man. Gin ultimately handles it well, but dang!!! And of course there’s the awesome fight scenes and love scenes. One other thing I’ll leave you with is I am loving the flirtation between Silvio and Gin’s hired muscle… Wait. What?!? Gin hired someone to protect her highly feared assassin self?!??? Grap yourself a copy of Sharpest Sting, and you can thank me later.
As with any long running series I find my review to be short because I don’t want to spoil anything for those who have been along for the ride with me and to really say anything other then, very well developed characters and awesome world building, to those starting the series, well, it won’t mean much.
So if you are new to the series, buy this book right away to support an excellent author, but also start with the first book so you can be like the cool kids and have all the inside info.
And if you’ve been enjoying Gin from the beginning, this book throws a major bomb at you in regards to the Tin Man. Gin ultimately handles it well, but dang!!! And of course there’s the awesome fight scenes and love scenes. One other thing I’ll leave you with is I am loving the flirtation between Silvio and Gin’s hired muscle… Wait. What?!? Gin hired someone to protect her highly feared assassin self?!??? Grap yourself a copy of Sharpest Sting, and you can thank me later.
March 3, 2023
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
It was about mid August when I was tweeting the author, Jennifer Estep, telling her how I had caught up on the Elemental Assassin series earlier in the year and I was now really starting to feel those withdrawals. Little did I know that two days later she was going to be sending out the ARCs for this book.
![[gif] Dean](https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1536885815ra/26298898.gif)
I was not expecting to get my Gin fix so fast, but hey, I am not complaining! Lol. This book was totally worth the wait! It was just amazing!
One of my favorite things about this book was Liam Carter and his incessant flirting with Silvio. I loved it! And I really liked Liam! Silvio’s still unsure about the guy, especially considering what happened in Nice Guys Bite . Yikes. It’s fair that he’s cautious around the guy, but I just loved how Liam kept flirting with him anyway and Silvio was almost indignant about it even though deep down he actually kinda liked it. Lol. I just loved every scene they were in together!
OMG STOP! I cannot take the cuteness!! I just love this so much! Excuse me while I try to not hyperventilate. Lol.
Besides these two lovebirds, there was also some weird flirting going on between two other characters that Bria perfectly described as “passive-aggressive flirting.” And omg that is so right! It was the weirdest thing ever, yet kinda cute and fun and I kinda liked it? Lol. I’m really interested to see where this... relationship goes.
I also really loved Lorelei in this one! I mean, I already liked her, but she was awesome in this! Badass and feisty and... I just really enjoyed her presence.
One character that has really surprised me is Tucker. As the books go by, I find myself hating Tucker less and less, actually. I was very curious to find out more about him and what the heck his deal is anyway, and this book we finally find out some interesting stuff about him! We finally get a glimpse into things and what he’s playing at. We finally see his true colors. And then there’s Uncle Mason... he... I just can’t form the words to describe this guy. He is awful... just the worst! He is heartless and cold and I just hate him!
But this book was just so good! This is my favorite series, so you shouldn’t be surprised. Lol. Not only was it action-packed and emotional (it made me cry! Look, we’re 18 books in and you bet I’m emotionally invested in these characters. My poor Gin! 😩), but we got a ton of revelations about Uncle Mason, Gin’s dad, some stuff with Fletcher, and finally Tucker! So many things have surfaced and they’re all starting to make sense now! It’s insane! Mason is a vicious bastard, and I am just wondering how things will move forward from here because damn! That ending? Things are not going well for Gin and her friends. But I have faith in her! She is smart and she will beat him! I just can't wait to see how!
It was about mid August when I was tweeting the author, Jennifer Estep, telling her how I had caught up on the Elemental Assassin series earlier in the year and I was now really starting to feel those withdrawals. Little did I know that two days later she was going to be sending out the ARCs for this book.
I was not expecting to get my Gin fix so fast, but hey, I am not complaining! Lol. This book was totally worth the wait! It was just amazing!
One of my favorite things about this book was Liam Carter and his incessant flirting with Silvio. I loved it! And I really liked Liam! Silvio’s still unsure about the guy, especially considering what happened in Nice Guys Bite . Yikes. It’s fair that he’s cautious around the guy, but I just loved how Liam kept flirting with him anyway and Silvio was almost indignant about it even though deep down he actually kinda liked it. Lol. I just loved every scene they were in together!
“All right. Have a seat. What do you want for lunch?”
Instead of heading to the back corner booth he’d sat in yesterday, Liam strolled over and plopped down on the stool next to Silvio. “Oh, I can think of a few things,” he drawled.
OMG STOP! I cannot take the cuteness!! I just love this so much! Excuse me while I try to not hyperventilate. Lol.
Besides these two lovebirds, there was also some weird flirting going on between two other characters that Bria perfectly described as “passive-aggressive flirting.” And omg that is so right! It was the weirdest thing ever, yet kinda cute and fun and I kinda liked it? Lol. I’m really interested to see where this... relationship goes.
I also really loved Lorelei in this one! I mean, I already liked her, but she was awesome in this! Badass and feisty and... I just really enjoyed her presence.
One character that has really surprised me is Tucker. As the books go by, I find myself hating Tucker less and less, actually. I was very curious to find out more about him and what the heck his deal is anyway, and this book we finally find out some interesting stuff about him! We finally get a glimpse into things and what he’s playing at. We finally see his true colors. And then there’s Uncle Mason... he... I just can’t form the words to describe this guy. He is awful... just the worst! He is heartless and cold and I just hate him!
But this book was just so good! This is my favorite series, so you shouldn’t be surprised. Lol. Not only was it action-packed and emotional (it made me cry! Look, we’re 18 books in and you bet I’m emotionally invested in these characters. My poor Gin! 😩), but we got a ton of revelations about Uncle Mason, Gin’s dad, some stuff with Fletcher, and finally Tucker! So many things have surfaced and they’re all starting to make sense now! It’s insane! Mason is a vicious bastard, and I am just wondering how things will move forward from here because damn! That ending? Things are not going well for Gin and her friends. But I have faith in her! She is smart and she will beat him! I just can't wait to see how!
November 6, 2019
Jennifer Estep once again delivers in this eighteenth novel of the Elemental Assassin series. Each one is fresh, yet they all draw on the past (characters, plots, etc.) In this one, Gin and company are preparing for the upcoming nuptials of Mallory and Stuart Mosley when they step on the toes of the wrong people. Gin Blanco may have met her match in this latest encounter with the members of the Circle. She and her "family" are now in the cross-hairs of the leader, who is a powerful elemental himself.
If Gin, AKA the Spider, can't deliver on his demands, she may lose all of her loved ones. She doesn't have much time, and she has just been punched in the gut with a betrayal. Will she succeed or will she fail? There are some surprising twists to this one, which had this reader rapidly flipping the pages, racing to the very end.
Per usual, Estep provides the requisite humor, the requisite Easter Egg(s) that refer to her other series, and for the first time, this reader noticed that the author uses Oxford commas. How awesome is that! (Has this reader ever mentioned how much love for the Oxford commas she has?)
Per usual, the only downside to finishing an Elemental Assassin book is waiting impatiently for the next one, but at least, there will be another.
If Gin, AKA the Spider, can't deliver on his demands, she may lose all of her loved ones. She doesn't have much time, and she has just been punched in the gut with a betrayal. Will she succeed or will she fail? There are some surprising twists to this one, which had this reader rapidly flipping the pages, racing to the very end.
Per usual, Estep provides the requisite humor, the requisite Easter Egg(s) that refer to her other series, and for the first time, this reader noticed that the author uses Oxford commas. How awesome is that! (Has this reader ever mentioned how much love for the Oxford commas she has?)
Per usual, the only downside to finishing an Elemental Assassin book is waiting impatiently for the next one, but at least, there will be another.
August 18, 2019
I love Gin Blanco. Reading her adventures as the Spider is always an edge of the seat read. Finding out her mentor wasn't quite who she thought him to be was a blow. Dealing with revelation after revelation makes for an intense read. What a interesting ending. I look forward to the next installment. I received an advanced copy of this book and freely leave this honest review.
November 1, 2019
As much as I liked this series in the beginning, I don't see the point anymore.
Things seems to be dragged on forever, romances are boring, no real new mysteries.
Even the fighting scenes aren't that great. At some point, everything needs to end. This series should have ended several books earlier in my opinion.
Things seems to be dragged on forever, romances are boring, no real new mysteries.
Even the fighting scenes aren't that great. At some point, everything needs to end. This series should have ended several books earlier in my opinion.
October 31, 2020
I guess that was okay. I almost put off reading this one since I had the impression that the villain wouldn’t be defeated until the next book. This was true, though the ending was more hopeful than I feared.
We’ve certainly come a long way from the notion that Mab Monroe was the biggest and baddest elemental out there and once Gin defeated her, she would have the title. We’re about 20 layers of secrets beyond that.
Just a few thoughts that I need to take under the cone of silence:
This book appears to be a setup for the next one which, I have the impression, may well be the grand finale for the series. If it is, I hope Estep sends Gin and her friends off with an appropriate bang. There certainly seems to be an opportunity here to do exactly that.
We’ve certainly come a long way from the notion that Mab Monroe was the biggest and baddest elemental out there and once Gin defeated her, she would have the title. We’re about 20 layers of secrets beyond that.
Just a few thoughts that I need to take under the cone of silence:
This book appears to be a setup for the next one which, I have the impression, may well be the grand finale for the series. If it is, I hope Estep sends Gin and her friends off with an appropriate bang. There certainly seems to be an opportunity here to do exactly that.
January 3, 2021
As Gin Blanco, aka the assassin the Spider, I’m used to having a target on my back. But ever since I started investigating the secret society known as the Circle, that target seems bigger than ever.
Still, I’m trying to relax and enjoy the events leading up to my friends’ wedding when I learn that an old enemy has returned to Ashland. And that’s the just beginning of my latest nightmare. Soon, I have Circle goons watching my every move, but I have no choice but to continue searching for a key piece of evidence against the evil group.
The deeper I dig, the more horrifying secrets I uncover, and the more dangerous things become for me and my friends. Just when I think I finally have a handle on things, a shocking revelation shatters my heart and leaves me with an ugly realization—that betrayal is the sharpest sting of all...
Heather's Notes
To be honest, I struggled to finish this book. It felt so repetitive and nothing new seemed to happen. I also was not at all surprised by the "twist" at the end. The next book is suppose to be the last, so I will read it, but it is sad that this series as come to this.
Still, I’m trying to relax and enjoy the events leading up to my friends’ wedding when I learn that an old enemy has returned to Ashland. And that’s the just beginning of my latest nightmare. Soon, I have Circle goons watching my every move, but I have no choice but to continue searching for a key piece of evidence against the evil group.
The deeper I dig, the more horrifying secrets I uncover, and the more dangerous things become for me and my friends. Just when I think I finally have a handle on things, a shocking revelation shatters my heart and leaves me with an ugly realization—that betrayal is the sharpest sting of all...
Heather's Notes
To be honest, I struggled to finish this book. It felt so repetitive and nothing new seemed to happen. I also was not at all surprised by the "twist" at the end. The next book is suppose to be the last, so I will read it, but it is sad that this series as come to this.
March 18, 2022
I think I'm just getting impatient with this series? Or maybe it was a particularly grumpy week. But I'm starting to feel like all the plots of the books are about the same - there is someone Gin needs to fight that is much more powerful than her, friends and family want to help, but she leaves them out of a lot because she wants to protect them, there is a lot of "it's all because of me" angst, Gin gets totally beaten up, and with this book, nothing really resolved (although there was slight progress). I think I won't classify the above as spoilers, because really it could describe most of the first 18 books in the series.
That said - I love the friends and family. I like Gin. And I like the magic system and stories in general. And...I'll read the next book because I own it and it looks as if maybe things from this book will get resolved there.
Like I said - grumpy week!
That said - I love the friends and family. I like Gin. And I like the magic system and stories in general. And...I'll read the next book because I own it and it looks as if maybe things from this book will get resolved there.
Like I said - grumpy week!
August 10, 2021
I really thought this was going to be it. That we were going to cut the head off the snake if you will. But nope we are getting another book, this one ended on a cliffhanger.
If you follow me you know I hate cliffhangers!!!
But I can see why this needed to be 2 books instead of one. We learn a lot more about The Circle and just how involved everyone is. I am still unsure of who Gin and Fynn and the gang can trust.
This round went to The Circle aka Mason Uncle freaking Mason!
Narration grew on me, all but Fynn’s voice it’s not the greatest.
If you follow me you know I hate cliffhangers!!!
But I can see why this needed to be 2 books instead of one. We learn a lot more about The Circle and just how involved everyone is. I am still unsure of who Gin and Fynn and the gang can trust.
This round went to The Circle aka Mason Uncle freaking Mason!
Narration grew on me, all but Fynn’s voice it’s not the greatest.
May 27, 2020
CITIZENS OF ASHLAND spoilers ahead ...
So if you have not read it yet, ya may want to wait to read this.
First usually if a series goes this long. It gets thin plot lines and such.
Yet here we find Gin and the cast of the Elemental Assassin universe.
Chasing after a enemy in hiding. Then finding out, when found. It may have been better to let sleeping villains lie.
Once again Jennifer weaves a tail, with twists and turns.
That would impress a world class roller coaster.
Events from the past being unraveled. To reveal, even more heartache and treachery.
Very nice page turner. Only reason I did not let it hit the 5 star mark.
After you race to the end ..... You find out events. To be continued in the next book in the series.
(LOVE that it has another book coming..) Hate that I have to see Gin on pause, still trapped.
With a dangerous and deadly enemy lurking.
Not to mention still maybe not all. Of her pasts secrets revealed yet.
Looking forward to the next.
So if you have not read it yet, ya may want to wait to read this.
First usually if a series goes this long. It gets thin plot lines and such.
Yet here we find Gin and the cast of the Elemental Assassin universe.
Chasing after a enemy in hiding. Then finding out, when found. It may have been better to let sleeping villains lie.
Once again Jennifer weaves a tail, with twists and turns.
That would impress a world class roller coaster.
Events from the past being unraveled. To reveal, even more heartache and treachery.
Very nice page turner. Only reason I did not let it hit the 5 star mark.
After you race to the end ..... You find out events. To be continued in the next book in the series.
(LOVE that it has another book coming..) Hate that I have to see Gin on pause, still trapped.
With a dangerous and deadly enemy lurking.
Not to mention still maybe not all. Of her pasts secrets revealed yet.
Looking forward to the next.
September 14, 2023
Woo - almost done with this series. I do think after 18 books it has kind of run into the ground so I'm glad that I just have one more to go. Also this book kinda ends on a cliffhanger, which I guess makes sense because it's the penultimate.
January 9, 2020
I always like visiting with Gin. Once again there is danger and tension in a plot filled with action. Gin just keeps getting in trouble and all of her friends always come to her rescue. This needs to be read in order and as this is #18 you have a lot of reading ahead if this is your first time to try the series.
October 4, 2019
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Stars
Spoiler-Free Review.
Our favorite assassin- Gin Blanco, aka the Spider -is back in action for the 18th installment of the Elemental Assassin series. Can you read the series out of order? My advice, since we're 18 books into the series, you must read the first 8 or so to get a grasp on the overall feel of the series, the world building, and how the characters relate to each other. After that, you can pick and choose which of the installments you wish to read.
There is a comfort in reading later books in a series, where you read to recapture certain emotions. The trust you've built with the author (Jennifer Estep) to deliver what was delivered in the past. Some might call this predictable or formulaic, but there is a sense of comfort when that is what you're looking for in an entertaining read. Estep delivers, never breaking a reader's trust, which I highly appreciate.
Without giving away spoilers, making it feel as if I'm writing a book report, or rehashing the blurb. here is a quick rundown of what's inside Sharpest Sting.
Action-packed from the first page, Sharpest Sting starts out with a bang, and continues on a path that has become the norm for the series. While most is resolved by The End, there are a few threads that carryover into the next installment, which has readers eager to find out more.
Gin and Co try to protect Ashland and each other. What I love the most about Gin is her humanity, and I don't mean that in the wishy washy sense where the heroine isn't willing do get her hands dirty and do the work. Gin experiences human emotions that resonate within her readers. She's focused on her family and friends, sees people to be under her protection, where she'll do anything and everything to protect them. She tries to enjoy the little things, even when in the middle of a mess.
With a target on her back, Gin is trying to help with the wedding, but the Circle is literally breathing down her neck, tainting the experience. Gin believes she can handle everything, but as she uncovers more difficult truths, she discovers something she might not be able to handle, and that is where Estep shines- the raw and gritty, darker emotions.
Highly recommend to fans of the series. If you're new to Estep, I caution against jumping into the series with Sharpest Sting. If you've read Estep's YA paranormal series or Crown of Shards fantasy series and are curious to start Environmental Assassin, note that all of the author's series have a different vibe, which is much appreciated.
4 Stars
Spoiler-Free Review.
Our favorite assassin- Gin Blanco, aka the Spider -is back in action for the 18th installment of the Elemental Assassin series. Can you read the series out of order? My advice, since we're 18 books into the series, you must read the first 8 or so to get a grasp on the overall feel of the series, the world building, and how the characters relate to each other. After that, you can pick and choose which of the installments you wish to read.
There is a comfort in reading later books in a series, where you read to recapture certain emotions. The trust you've built with the author (Jennifer Estep) to deliver what was delivered in the past. Some might call this predictable or formulaic, but there is a sense of comfort when that is what you're looking for in an entertaining read. Estep delivers, never breaking a reader's trust, which I highly appreciate.
Without giving away spoilers, making it feel as if I'm writing a book report, or rehashing the blurb. here is a quick rundown of what's inside Sharpest Sting.
Action-packed from the first page, Sharpest Sting starts out with a bang, and continues on a path that has become the norm for the series. While most is resolved by The End, there are a few threads that carryover into the next installment, which has readers eager to find out more.
Gin and Co try to protect Ashland and each other. What I love the most about Gin is her humanity, and I don't mean that in the wishy washy sense where the heroine isn't willing do get her hands dirty and do the work. Gin experiences human emotions that resonate within her readers. She's focused on her family and friends, sees people to be under her protection, where she'll do anything and everything to protect them. She tries to enjoy the little things, even when in the middle of a mess.
With a target on her back, Gin is trying to help with the wedding, but the Circle is literally breathing down her neck, tainting the experience. Gin believes she can handle everything, but as she uncovers more difficult truths, she discovers something she might not be able to handle, and that is where Estep shines- the raw and gritty, darker emotions.
Highly recommend to fans of the series. If you're new to Estep, I caution against jumping into the series with Sharpest Sting. If you've read Estep's YA paranormal series or Crown of Shards fantasy series and are curious to start Environmental Assassin, note that all of the author's series have a different vibe, which is much appreciated.
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