Repetitive for Bishop fans. Didn't ever feel to reach a point. Just the same story she has written before but in a setting that is sadly becoming a bit stale. The book is fine-- I just expect more after some phenomenal Anne Bishop books in the past.

Unnecessarily convoluted story that didn't always hold my attention, even darker than other books set in this world. Good development of recurring characters though I LOATHE Grimshaw's condescending treatment of Vicki. He can be such an asshole.

While I didn't love this story and have no desire to read it again (though I read it twice to understand it and write about it), unlike other entries, I still want more with these characters. Vicki keeps growing on me and I want all the good things for her.

I’ll be honest, it took me halfway through the book before I realized Crowbones by Anne Bishop was a part of a spin-off series of another series. Regardless of that fact, I still enjoyed this book with a bit of filling in the blanks here and there. Continue reading down below to get my take on this supernatural mystery.

As I said, Crowbones is a part of a series that is a spinoff of another series. So technically, this is the third book of the spinoff and the eighth of the entire universe created by Bishop. There were certain people and events that I didn’t know but could use context clues to figure out. Even though I’d not read the other seven related books, it was still overall a good book.

The narration of the book was from many different points of view. Bishop does a great job of getting the nuances in characters to come through for each of these viewpoints. It was interesting to experience the plot through the different vantage points of the various supernatural beings. Each had its own alliances, loyalties, and overall species-specific motivations.

I enjoyed the Charlaine Harris and Kim Harrison feelings with supernatural beings living amongst humans (nearly) harmoniously. There is obviously the big wrench in that when the Crowbones impersonator appears and starts throwing people for a loop. People are now unsure of who to trust, including the ogling human newcomers that have come to see supernatural beings. Now everyone is trapped in the town due to some mysterious disappearances and deaths associated with the appearance of Crowbones.

Some parts of the plot I did not entirely understand, but I’m not going to say that was the book’s fault. I could fill in a lot of the basics. The Sanguinati are vampires and anyone with “-gard” in their last name is some sort of were-species, etc. Unfortunately, some aspects and characters such as the Elders and the Five, I could not entirely pin down. As a result, when the mystery was solved in the end, I didn’t feel a big “ah ha!!!” moment where things clicked in place.

Overall
Considering I jumped in the midst of the series, I did enjoy Crowbones. I enjoyed the world that Bishop created and the very interesting lore that drives the story. Given the opportunity, I would strongly consider reading the other previous books and eventually rereading Crowbones. It speaks to the quality of a book if it takes until halfway through the book to notice that it is part of a series. Honestly, it works as a standalone so I do not see why not as a part of a larger series.

Crowbones is the third installment in The World of Others spin-off series. It tells a tale spanning only days wherein a small settlement is seemingly terrorized by a boogey-man-like elder being named Crowbones. Crowbones’ arrival coincides with a Halloween-like event, contributing an additional layer to the spooky, somewhat post-apocalyptic setting. Humans and shifters alike frantically try to unwind the purpose of Crowbones’ arrival as the body count rises.

Much of the action in Crowbones takes place at The Jumble, a rustic resort owned by Victoria “Vicki” DeVine. Vicki has a close communion with The Others, including animal shifters, vampires, elementals, and elders. There is a vested interest, it seems, on behalf of The Others to ensure Vicki’s safety. Vicki is a relatable character. She struggles with anxiety due to past trauma. Vicki is also seemingly ordinary in appearance, a rarity among female main characters in fantasy series. Many readers will connect with Vicki’s humility and humanity.

The plot unfolds as a whodunit. When bodies start piling up, there is a vast cast of characters and suspects. The deaths are brutal and violent, shaking The Jumbles staff and visitors to the core. An eclectic group of characters working collectively to uncover the threat to The Jumble and the village of Sproing. I found the thriller elements of the story entertaining. The vast cast of characters lends interest and variety to the story.

In the interest of full disclosure, I entered this universe with Crowbones. I had heard of The Others series but have not read any other installments set in this world. That being said, it took me a while to understand what was going on. Bishop’s world is highly imaginative with an incredible amount of world-building, including unique months/days of the week. Bishop provides a map (of a neighbouring town?) and a list of characters grouped by type. I was constantly referring to this list to parse out alignment and connection. This made the reading experience disjointed and slow. It’s likely advisable to start at the beginning, if not of The Others series, but at least with The World of Others.

Crowbones by Anne Bishop is the 8th book of The Others. Welcome to the Jumble, an Inn run by Vicki DeVine. Here Others and humans can mix. Too bad the crowguard boogeyman showed up to ruin Trickster Night.

Disclaimer I read this almost a year ago. Plenty of details remain in my brain but it can be a little fuzzy. I love this series so already this book would have a hard time disappointing me. I like that Vicki seems to know that she can still be eaten. I feel as the series has progressed there is safety to some characters but here Vicki definitely felt protected but also under threat. While not the fastest pace around it was not a drag to read. Bishop had another more meek female who had some gusto but who still needed to be protected as a main character. This did not make her unlikable but it did make it predictable. Of the series I have to say this was not the strongest showing but still enjoyable.

Three stars because while still enjoyable just was missing something that I cannot define. I still recommend it and will absolutely praise and recommend the series still. Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and Anne Bishop for a free copy. This was an honest review.

I am obsessed with the Others! I love the subtle romance and the connections between the characters. I still miss Simon and Meg but I cannot wait to see who we will discover next.

This is the third book in a spin off series, so if you are wanting to start this series from the very beginning you will want to start with Written in Red (Also it is a fantastic book). This book will also set up the world that these book are in.

Anne Bishop is back in the world of the Other, and there is one Other out there that makes sure that the Others & Humans are behaving nicely:

If you cannot tell I have been reading this series for a long time, so that must mean that Bishop is doing something right to have me come back year after year to continue to read in this world, even in a spin off series. I think what I like most about this book and series, is the Badassness of the Others. They are at the top of the food change and are not afraid to hide it. Humans are referred to as meat several times in each book, and lets say some human bodies disappear along the way too. And the creepy voice that kept saying "Money Man Monkey Man, Crowbones is going to getcha" is probably the stuff of nightmares.

I feel like Bishop toned down the multiple POV in this book, or I am just used to all the characters now. I personally like the well rounded view that this provides the book especially as there are so many different types of Others as well as a few good humans. It was interesting to see have some of the Elders have chapters have

I will say that Bishop’s books in this series do follow a formula that works for it, but what I liked in this book that it was more than just humans trying to overthrow the Other with use of force, There was manipulation that was occurring and that minds of Others could be affected as well. The manipulation is done in such a way that you do wonder where the Humans got their information from, maybe something more is a foot that will be expressed in future books..

I really enjoyed this book and series, I was happy to be back in The Jumble but I do wonder how Bishop with bring The Jumble and Bennett together, as I really enjoyed Police Officer Jana in the second book. Though there is reference to the second book in this series as well.

I think fans of this series will enjoy this book as it does have elements that are similar to the ones before it, but yet it felt fresh at the same time. I look forward to the next book that Bishop creates in this series.

Enjoy!!!

I cannot rave enough about this series! The world it is set in intrigues as we find out more. The compassion and sensitivity toward the main character is spot on. Cannot wait for the next one.

Anyone who knows me knows I like Anne Bishop, but this book didn’t feel like it had a point. It was the same basic story that Bishop has written in the wolf of the Others and I think the setting is getting a little stale. It’s still a fine book - well plotted and I like the characters, but it might be time to move on to a new story.

The Others series is one of my all-time favs. I've found the spin-off to be a bit hit and miss for me, but quite enjoyed the third book. I feel like these new characters are finding their own rhythm and gelling together much like the original Courtyard denizens. I'll definitely be continuing with the series to see where it goes.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this title.

"Crowbones" was honestly a bit of a disappointment for me. Like its predecessors in The Others series, readers go in knowing that the bad guys will get their due; however, the comeuppance was drawn out. With a weak plot, an overly childlike protagonist (I don't get the appeal of Vicky) and a mostly weak cast of supporting characters, 'Crowbones' is a disappointing entry in The Others series.

Crowbones is the latest novel in Anne Bishop's The Others series. If you haven't heard of this series, let me tell you! You're in for quite the treat. Currently, The Others is spending a bit of time near The Jumble, a rustic resort VERY near the creatures that go bump in the night.

Vicki DeVine owns and runs The Jumble, a resort on the lake's edge – and the woods. She's on the border of Others' territory, and she's happier that way. Recently though, she made the mistake of telling Crowgard and the rest about Trickster Night, so now that's happening.

On a night that should have been full of treats and harmless pranks, somebody arrived dressed as Crowbones, terrifying the few Crowgard around and sending everyone into a panic. It all goes downhill from there, with fatal consequences.

“Crowbones will gitcha if you don't watch out!”

If you haven't read The Others series by Anne Bishop, may I strongly suggest that you set aside some time to do so? This fantasy series is sublime, with lots of entertaining (and sometimes violent) characters, sharp personalities, and an expansive world to dive into.

Crowbones is the latest addition to this series, and it looks like we're sticking around Vicky and her Jumble (bed and breakfast of sorts) for a while. Given how much I love her and this particular area of the Wild, I'm thrilled with this news.

Vicky's story started in Lake Silence before taking a break in Wild Country (where we got to see a different Other-run town). Honestly, I was surprised by how happy I was to see her again – and I went into this book delighted with the news. She's a spunky and quirky character that just feels so real.

“You can’t fall if you’re already on the floor when you faint. Words to live by.”

The whole Crowbones concept made for a brilliant foundation in this book. I love the idea of Others having folklore for obvious reasons. But I feel like this is the first time we're getting to really delve into that. Unless you count talk of Elders, which I suppose we should. It would be fatal to get that one wrong.

This was a complex story, with multiple perspectives, surprises, and twists. There were times when I thought I had the whole story pieced together in my mind - only for me to be surprised by the next chapter and revelation.

I wonder where the next Others novel will be based? While I have a few theories, I can sincerely say that I'll be happy, no matter where Anne Bishop chooses to take us next.

I have adored The Others series since it came out. Recently Bishop has gone back to her Black Jewels series but after a two year break has brought us back to The Jumble, Vicki and Lake Silence. I didn't remember Lake Silence very well. I just had the impression that it wasn't my favorite book in the Others series. So I reread it which was helpful to me and I liked it better than I remembered.

Crowbones is the bogeyman of the Crowgard. If you are a bad crow, Crowbones will hunt you down. When Vicki introduces Trickster night (aka Halloween) activities at The Jumble for her human and Other friends, she does not expect to find a dead body and half a crow, especially since the body was a fake Crowbones. With the elders wanting answers Vicki, Julian, Grimshaw and Ilya must figure out what is going on, especially when the stakes are raised because the real Crowbones is here and hunting.

I actually really enjoyed this book. The mystery was interesting. I wanted to know more about what was going on with Crowbones. Grimshaw is an excellent character to follow with his interactions between human and Other. I did enjoy the cameos (yay Lakeside!) I did miss the Sproingers, who were not in this book that much.

I am hoping for more Others books.

I have read everything written by Anne Bishop and Each book has been great! Crowbones continues her series about the Others and I’m ready for more!

This one was truly something different than I ever read. I had no idea it was the continuation of the Lake Silence storyline. I really wish I wouldve read that one first, however, I loved the elements in the story. The flow was perfect and the magical traits of the characters were truly intriguing. I have to read the first book now for sure!

Crowbones is the latest book in Anne Bishops world of the Others. On Trickster Night Vickie DeVine’s celebration at her B&B is interrupted by a visit from Crowbones, the Crowguard boogyman. Vickie’s Crowguard staff are terrified and soon visitors start dying and it’s obvious Vickie is in danger. Powerful Others barricade the town in while the police chief and Vickie’s vampire lawyer are forced to solve the crimes while navigating the dangers posed by both the humans who are intent on challenging to Others control and the powerful Others who could eliminate all humanity. This isn’t a standalone and Written in Red or Lake Silence places to start.

I have read my fair share of urban fantasy, romantic, tragic, or otherwise. As a reader and reviewer, it has become a challenge for me to seek out series in that elusive “other” category, ones that straddle a line of horror and urban fantasy such as Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere and American Gods or A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. These books are different. They excel in bringing something fresh to the reader. The Others series by Anne Bishop has brought life to the tired genre of the supernatural urban fantasy genre with her brilliant take on the relationships between humans and the Terre Indigene in Crowbones.

“Don’t matter if you caw, Don’t matter if you shout. Crowbones will gitcha If you don’t watch out! —Crowgard rhyme”

Every culture, human or other, has a boogeyman. A creature that will come to getcha if you aren’t a good kid. Bishop explores that idea in Crowbones. Vicki Devine, whom we met in book 6 of The Others series, Lake Silence, is back again as the central figure of Crowbones. Vicki, the owner of the Jumble, a resort that does some light tourism around folks wanting to interact with The Others, is hosting a gathering to celebrate Trickster Night, The Others form of Halloween. There are some funny antics and miscommunication between the humans and the terre indigene. What kind of costume is scary but not too frightening to become other.

We first meet Vickie in a previous novel, Lake Silence. In that novel, she is a woman recovering from a traumatic relationship and divorce and attempting to start a new life in a new town. I find her a compelling character, that while she is broken and worn down from hardship, Vickie manages to have inner strength. Enough that the Others understand that she is special and a cut above other humans.

“He wasn’t sure what disturbed him more—that the Others were able to excavate that much dirt from either side of the road and pile it into a hill that quickly . . . or the smiley face made out of boulders that was pressed into this side of the mound.”

Each of the stories in this series of books revolves around a mystery. This one isn’t an exception. Something rotten is affecting the terre indigene, and individuals who act as judges have come to bring sentences on human and terre indigene alike. Office Wayne Grimshaw, Julian Farrow, and Ilya Sanguinati have to work together before judgment is cast on all of them.

The plotting and pacing are tight; it keeps you going. You know from the first few pages that this will be a mystery story. But it lacks the tropey feel of a “who done it” type story. Vickie is someone trying to keep the crows safe, and the three individuals, Wayne, Julian, and Ilya, are trying to do the same. There are certainly some bloody and violent scenes. Bishop has never shied away from the darker side of things, which works for me as a lover of horror and grimdark. Crows are picking at eyeballs, basically doing what crows do.

Crowbones is another exciting addition to the world of The Others that continues to be interesting. We learn that even the strongest and wildest predators of the terre indigene have boogeymen that go bump in the night. Check it out.

Unforgettable Characters

Crowbones will gitcha if you don’t watch out!

Deep in the territory controlled by the Others - shape-shifters, vampires, and even deadlier paranormal beings - Vicki DeVine has made a new life for herself running The Jumble, a rustic resort. When she decides to host a gathering of friends and guests for Trickster Night, at first everything is going well between the humans and the Others.

But then someone arrives dressed as Crowbones, the Crowgard bogeyman. When the impostor is killed along with a shape-shifting Crow, and the deaths are clearly connected, everyone fears that the real Crowbones may have come to The Jumble - and that could mean serious trouble.

To “encourage” humans to help them find some answers, the Elders and Elementals close all the roads, locking in suspects and victims alike. Now Vicki, human police chief Grimshaw, vampire lawyer Ilya Sanguinati, and the rest of their friends have to figure out who is manipulating events designed to pit humans against Others - and who may have put Vicki DeVine in the crosshairs of a powerful hunter.




In Anne Bishop’s newest in the World of the Others, it is the characters that kept me reading. The story is engrossing, the plot connecting to the rest of the world in interesting ways but ultimately, it is her characters that kept me engaged in the novel. 

I had read Wild Country, the previous novel and found the characters powerful and engaging. So I was curious about the next in the series. One of the more interesting factors is that while the world is all connected, the characters have been different in each novel. In Crowbones, Anne Bishop returns to the character of Vicki Devine and The Jumble. I willingly admit I’m late to the party and hadn’t read the previous novel featuring Vicki, which is something I need to rectify because the character is oddly strong in the most unlikely way. In fact, all of the characters are unique and not what you quite expect, including the supernatural predators. Vicki has not had an easy life, isn’t perfect in how she handles the chaos and death around her and that spark of realism is what makes the character so incredible. Surrounded by others trying to solve the problem of Crowbones, Chief Grimshaw, Ilya Sanguinati, and the rest of their friends, Vicki also doesn’t give up. Part mystery, part exploration of human nature under pressure, and more on the side of the monsters than the humans, the World of the Others explores what it would be like if humans aren’t in charge of the world and I loved every minute. 

If you like a unique perspective on the supernatural, a different world where things aren’t so friendly for humans and humans who have strength despite the odds, I truly recommend Crowbones. It continues the world without requiring you to have read the other novels. Anne Bishop catches you up quickly and the events in the previous books, while tied loosely to this one, still allow each book to stand alone. The book is powerful, the characters unforgettable, and the plot riveting. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 

If you're interested in the book, please consider ordering from Duncan's Book's and More

We’re back with Vicky at The Jumble in Sproing after the last book centered around the people and events in the town of Bennett. Vicky’s inn is up and running with guests and she has some of the Crowguard working/staying with her to assist. As usual there are a few humans making trouble, tainting minds and capturing the attention of The Others, and not in a good way. Some people just never learn. Vicky and her friends must tread carefully so they don’t get between a deadly Hunter looking to weed out the bad.

I’ve loved The Others series from the beginning and so I was excited to get another glimpse into life in Sproing and catch up with Vicky, Wayne Grimshaw, Julian, Ilya and the rest of the Lake Silence crowd. Vicky seems to hold a similar position in the stories as the books that centered on Meg. A human that captured the attention and hearts of the The Others, meriting their protection. I will say that Meg and Simon’s books continue to be my favorites of the series. Vicky is likable, but I feel the newer stories don’t hold that same special place in my heart. I think part of that has to do with the fact that there’s no clear romance here. I think Julian is meant to be the love interest for Vicky, but I honestly think she has more chemistry with Chief Grimshaw. Don’t get me wrong, these newer stories are exciting and captivating, as well, and I eagerly look forward to every new installment! The story wrapped up nicely, but there’s definitely room for more!

Crowbones fits into this series perfectly. I'm glad that this continued the Lake Silence storyline and told more of Vicki's story. The Elders and the Crows and the Sproingers are some of my favorites in this entry in this world. I do wonder however, if the love story between Vicki and Julian is going to move as slow as Meg and SImon? We need one couple to get together eventually!