Charlaine Harris does it again! Each of the series’ she writes is so different but they are all amazing. The characters are so richly drawn and the relationships are developed in a way which seems real. Harris’ writing is always impeccable - she paints a picture, sets a scene, tells a story perfectly. It was great to get to know a whole new set of characters. Highly recommended for established fans and people looking for something new.

As always amazing. Packed with truly strong talented women, some great characters. The in-depth, detailed and interesting world building of this series is addictive.

I've come to really enjoy this alternate world fantasy series

The third installment has plenty of action and some romance. The author creates a believable world utilizing familiar historical characters as well as new ones.

It was nice to learn about Eli's family and his background.

The MC is extremely likeable despite her job as a "gunny." She is saved from being a villian by her ethical view, loyalty and sense of humor

The characters àre well rounded and the plot interesting.

I look forward to the next booķ

I read this in one fell swoop today and really enjoyed it. I hadn't read a Charlaine Harris in a while so this was a fun diversion from the more serious books I've read recently. I wouldn't say this was well written or even a great book but was fun and distracting.

I have always loved Eli and Lizbeth together. Lizbeth is such a strong and unique character. Glad to see the more emotional side of her in this book. I wish that there were more Eli and Lizbeth developments though. Their relationship has been building for such a long time while and it would be really nice to see more of them together.

The relationship issue aside... great plot as always. Everything all tied up at the end. Fast moving and suspenseful. All that you would expect from a Charlaine Harris book. :)

This is the most conventional story of the three so far. It's nice to see where Eli and his family live, but it's the most similar to our world despite being ruled by a Tsar.

I liked the story and the fact that Felicia, Lizbeth's sister, gets more development. I can see her becoming a force in future books. That said, this book would have neatly finished off the series if it was a trilogy. However, I see a fourth one planned.

If you are really into the relationship between Lizbeth and Eli, you may be disappointed about how little they actually do together here. Since this is not a PNR series, I was fine with that because we were able to get to know many of the new characters fairly well.

Not my favorite Harris series, but I liked this book.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

One thing is certain; this is a page turner.
From the moment Lisbeth receives a letter from her sister and decodes the meaning of it, she's on a train and her mission is to save Eli or rather get him out of prison, how, she doesn't know yet!
It's a very interesting read, thrilling and the characters some lovely others drunk in their power, and Lisbeth, has no patience for small talk or niceties.
Anyone coming into this story line, would enjoy the pace and adventure herein. So, it makes a good read for both Harris' fans and new readers.
Thanks for the eARC Netgalley.

I really anticipated this book and was so excited to get an advance copy.

Readers will appreciate learning more about this alternate-history California, meeting Eli's family, and seeing a more emotional side to Lizbeth.

However, this is all overshadowed by the fact that the plot is neatly tied up via a plot hole the size of Texas itself. While the central conflict is Lizbeth's quest to free Eli from prison, that plot takes backseat to political intrigue involving the tsar and a bunch of other characters I'm not interested or invested in.

Overall, it was a fun ride with a disappointing ending, but Ill probably pick up book 4 from the library, if there is one.

Your mileage may vary.