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Kicking It
Kicking It
Kicking It
Audiobook11 hours

Kicking It

Written by Faith Hunter and Kalayna Price

Narrated by Justine O. Keef

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

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About this audiobook

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine has modern-day potions witches Holly and Andrew facing off against a firebrand politician who wears literally killer boots in a Texas-sized rodeo of trouble.

Boot-loving Cadogan vampire Lindsey must team up with off-again, on-again vampire partner Luc when a woman from her past is targeted by supernaturals in New York Times bestselling author Chloe Neill's all-new adventure.

And New York Times bestselling author Rob Thurman features Trixa Iktomi from her Trickster series dealing with magical vengeance and magical footwear.

Taking kick-ass urban fantasy literally, USA Today bestselling authors Kalayna Price and Faith Hunter bring together the best of the genre to once again prove when you're fighting supernatural forces, it helps to keep your feet on the ground.
LanguageEnglish
Release dateDec 3, 2013
ISBN9781452682839
Kicking It

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Reviews for Kicking It

Rating: 3.75999994 out of 5 stars
4/5

50 ratings6 reviews

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  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Strong characters, plots, and world-building. Superb stories. I’ve been a fan of Faith Hunter for many years and am excited about the authors this book helped me to discover. Yay!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    This review is for High Stakes by Chloe NeillHigh Stakes is a short story following Luc and Lindsey from The Chicagoland Vampires series. Lindsey and Luc are an on again off again vampire couple, mostly due to Lindsey's issues with trust and her fears of ruining a friendship. At the moment that relationship is on again but trouble from Lindsey's past rears it's ugly head and brings up old issues for the couple. Lindsey sets off to NYC to nip said trouble in the bud, while also worrying that she might have ruined a good thing because of her fears.Lindsey is an Empath which as you can imagine is a pain in the ass for her sometimes and seeing her struggle with her own feelings was kind of ironic. She knows what everyone else is feeling but can't seem to sort out her own. I was curious to see how she would finally get to a place where she could trust herself and also maybe kick some ass. Unfortunately there was not much of any ass kicking but otherwise it was a quick little peek into one of the series' side character. I'm very intrigued by her vampire beginnings and a flashback story on that would be very cool since I just love anything to do with the 20's. It's a short story so I won't complain that I wished there was more but I do wish that it was a more exciting read, which was what I expected. Ethan and Merit were in attendance albeit very briefly (I know, it's not their story).
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Good book with different stories from several authors
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I bought this book for the single purpose of reading the story by Chloe Neill, a novella taking place in the Chicagoland Vampire 'verse. When I received it, I was pleasantly surprised that Kalayna Price had a story in it too, as I'm a big fan of the Grave Witch series. Of course I had to read the whole book, and I didn't allow myself to jump ahead to my stories of choice - good things come to those that wait, and all that. 9 stories/novellas centred around kick ass shoes/boots, I found almost all of them entertaining and a lot of fun. The ones that I didn't care for as much weren't because of bad story building or writing, merely subject matter I didn't find to my personal taste. My overall rating for the collection is 4 starts, but below is a quick and dirty review/rating for each story. Rachel Caine - Forked Tongues - ★★★1/5: Resurrection witches go up against a man with a powerful pair of boots. I liked the story, although some background info was withheld long enough that the story started off confusing for this first time reader. It's explained, but not right away, so references made at the beginning were a bit obscure. I didn't like it enough that I'd seek out this particular series, but I really liked her writing style, so I'll check out her other series to see if their themes peak my interest. Shannon Butcher - Stolen Goods - ★★★: A professional thief and a crafter of 'unique' items, both with a past tragedy in common, team up to stop an invasion of what I can only guess are meant to be an alien of some type. If you like your UF on the true fantasy side of things, this story might be more up your alley (it's sorta Dr. Who-ish). I'm not into aliens or alien life form fiction (space bores me stupid). That third star is for an excellently told and well written tale, even if I had to force myself to finish it because - again - aliens. Chris Marie Green - The Girl with No Name - ★★★: An intriguing story about a girl who wakes up in a hotel room with no memory of who she is, how she got there or where she got the wicked-strange boots she's wearing. This story felt like an interlude between two bigger stories and it was very well done. Although I enjoyed the story, it's not one that interested me enough to seek out the rest of the author's work. Faith Hunter - The Devil's Left Boot - ★★★★: 2 sisters, one recovering from a magical battle and both recovering from the death of a loved one, are hired by their high school nemesis to find her missing mother. I really liked this one and I loved the pygmy goat - it had me giggling a bit. A well written story that is obviously a novella that happens between other full length novels, there was still enough information gracefully provided (no info dumps) that I didn't have any trouble keeping up. I'll be looking more closely at Ms. Hunter's body of work. Chloe Neill - High Stakes - ★★★1/2: Well, this is the story that I bought the book for and Luc and Lindsey are amongst my favourite characters. Lindsey has a niece in Chicago who comes home to a disturbing message for Lindsey. You may be wondering at the rating, but I have to say, while the story was good, it was not Ms. Neill's best. The Chicagoland vampire series is full of the most delightful dialog and snark, with Lindsey and Luc both delivering more than their fair share of it throughout the series. But this short story fell flat with both. Disappointing. The story, however, was a good one; we learn more about Lindsey's past and we see the evolution of their relationship take a bit of a leap forward. Worth reading, but didn't live up to my expectations. Lucienne Diver - The Parlor - ★★1/2: A P.I. on a cheating-husband case makes a surprising discovery. This one ties with the aliens for my least favourite of the book, but again, it's down to personal preference. This one is based on a greek mythology series and the plot line is just a little too fantastical for even this lover of vampire lore. It lost the half star the aliens got because I figured out the plot line as soon as the club owners name was revealed. Again, though, readers of mythology-related fantasy may like this story quite a bit. Christine Henry - Red Really Isn't My Colour - ★★★★: An agent of death is tasked by her great-many-times-grandfather on a task to retrieve a special pair of shoes. I really liked this one and I'll be checking out Ms. Henry's work. I like the way she's melded different mythologies into a cohesive world, and I love the MC's pet gargoyle. A well-told story that didn't leave me scratching my head because I'm not a current reader of a series. The main character feels like a complex, intelligent person I'd be interested in reading more about. She has snark too, and that's always a plus. Rob Thurman - Snakeskin - ★★★: A problem solver and giver of wisdom takes on a request from a customer. Be careful what you wish for. I sort of have to leave it at that so I don't give anything away. This was not a favourite either - the mythology didn't appeal to me. It's also told in an unusual way; it's first person POV, but in a narrative style that's a bit choppy and doesn't necessarily flow well. It works for the story though; it perfectly encapsulates the personality of the MC. Kalayna Price - Ruby Red - ★★★★: This story takes place in the Grave Witch universe but in a different city with different characters. It's a mini-mystery surrounding the sudden catatonic states of several citizens of NYC (sort of). No previous knowledge of the series is necessary to enjoy this tale of witchcraft and it's cost and I really liked the MC, she's the strong, resourceful, enforcer of a two-member team. Her partner, (whose name I forget because I'm at work and don't have the book with me), he's the one that is forced to stay back and do research and assist, as he is "gifted" with the ability to 'read' any person or object he touches. He doesn't get out much. The author doesn't make any mention of this role reversal from the typical stereotype but upon reflection, it's a nice touch. The story ends with some serious foreshadowing of what to look forward to (or not) in the next Grave Witch book. Overall, one of the better anthologies I've read in awhile - I even enjoyed reading the ones I didn't enjoy, if you get what I'm saying. A fun way to introduce yourself to new writers, catch up with favourite series, or both.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Anthologies are always a crap shoot. It's a challenging format & writers have to make a choice: try to cram a complete stand alone into a small space or pen a brief interlude in the lives of existing characters from their series.
    These all have a common thread...fabulous (& sometimes scary) footwear. From Laboutins & Blahniks to no name stilettos & ancient cowboys boots, don't be fooled by their appearance. These heels have a story.
    Some you'll like, some will garner a "meh". It's fun to catch up with authors you know & a great chance to try out those you don't. I picked this up because I'm a fan of Faith Hunter & Chloe Neill. But to my surprise, the stories I enjoyed the most were by authors new to me. So in no particular order, here's my take on 9 shorties.

    1. Faith Hunter: a story featuring the sisters of Moly Everhart who appears frequently in the excellent Jane Yellowrock series. Cia & liz are still reeling from the death of their eldest sister Evie. They are identical twins & witches who run "Seven Sassy Sisters Cafe & Herb Shop" with their non-witch siblings.
    An old high school nemesis asks them to find her missing mother & before they know it they're dealing with blood magic & vamps tying to keep the lid on an old scandal.
    This was just ok for me. Jane makes an appearance but somehow her voice didn't seem the same. But I did like the twins...hey, who wouldn't wrestle a vamp for a pair of Manolos?

    2. Chloe Neill: this features Luc & Lindsay from the Chicagoland Vampire series. Their relationship as fellow guards has morphed into some thing more. Luc's all in but Lindsay is holding back. When a human relative is threatened, she realizes her dodgy past is catching up with her. Danger ensues & Lindsay is forced to rethink where Luc fits in her life.
    These are two likeable characters & I enjoyed their story.

    3. Kalyna Price: Briar Darque & Derrick Knight are partners in the Magical Crimes Investigation Bureau. She leads a charmed life, literally & lusts after Derrick, a witch. He's the brains & she's the brawn as they hunt down rogue supes.
    This case pits them against some spooky smoke creatures that take over the bodies of unsuspecting humans. Lots of action, interesting couple & a brief tie in to the author's "Alex Craft" series. I'd definitely read a full length book featuring these two.

    4. Christina Henry: a novella with Madeline Black from the "Black Wings" series. And where she goes you'll find Beezle, her petite & perpetually hungry gargoyle. Lucifer, her many times gr. grandfather wants her to retrieve something from one of the fae. Ever since she attacked their Queen, she's been on their shit list & there's little chance this will go well. Cute story in keeping with the the overall arc of the series & I always enjoy spending time with the smart mouthed Beezle.

    5. Rachel Caine: haven't read any of her books & I really liked this one, mostly due to the main characters. Andy & Holly are resurrection witches, meaning they can bring back the dead for a short time to obtain information.
    That's how Andy ended up in present day Austin, Texas. He's originally a gunslinger from the old wild west. Holly resurrected him for a case & he just never left. A tall, sexy guy in a duster & cowboy boots with old fashioned manners...what's a girl to do?
    They have to deal with a creepy guy who is a blast from Andy's past. Enjoyed them & their relationship & would read a full length book of their adventures.

    6. Shannon Butcher: another one I wasn't familiar with. Simone Solange is gorgeous, wears knee high red boots & is the best thief money can buy. She "liberated" the boots from Marcus Brighton, a master leather worker who now wants to hire her for a job. Icky things called Fractogasts have stolen his magical hammer to build a portal to bring more of their kind into this world. Seeing as they turn humans into zombie slaves, this would be bad.
    Interesting world building, gruesome paranormals & the promise of something between Marcus & Simone if she can get over her tragic past.
    If I were her, I'd make the effort. Marcus is fine & can make a red purse to match the boots. Just might be the definition of the perfect man.

    7. Chris Marie Green: for me, this one had the most interesting & original story line that I'd like to read more of (if it already exists, please let me know).
    A woman wakes up in a hotel room with no idea who she is, where she is or how she got there. And that's not even the weird part. On her feet are a pair of knee high boots made of vines. Ooookay. Whatever happened last night must have involved alcohol. In quick succession, she discovers she's in New Orleans, gets attacked by a scary thing with red eyes, meets a sexy Cajun carpenter/psychic & ends up in a witch's cabin. Here she learns more about herself & the stage is set for what could be an entertaining series. Just make sure it includes the Cajun guy, ok?

    8. Lucienne Diver: Tori is a PI with precognition who also happens to be a gorgon (don't ask, I still don't know).She lives in LA where para's & some of the gods from Greek mythology exist among the humans. Poseidon is grouchy & vengeful & Apollo would like nothing more than to talk you into his bed for a few days. But according to legend, he'll soon be looking for a shiny new toy & you'll want to kill yourself. Welp, all relationships have their challenges.
    Tori needs his help on a new case, tracking down an cheating husband. He went into a seedy gambling joint but never came out. After checking it out, she learns it's not the first time The Parlour has misplaced one of its' patrons. Things really hit the fan once she meets the owner, another god.
    This one fell into the "ok" column.

    9. Rob Thurman: this was enjoyable not so much for the story line or plot but for the style of prose. Trixa Iktomi is the lead & narrates the tale in a folksy, southern voice full of dry wit. She tells you up front she's a great liar.
    She owns a bar in Vegas but it's a cover for her real job as a purveyor of information. People come to her for advice or help with their problems & she creates a solution. Just be careful what you ask for because Trixa is not exactly human.
    This is a case of the character being better than the story. The case she's working was kind of a non-event but I found her interesting & funny. She speaks directly to the reader & it's this running monologue full of humour & insight into human nature that I enjoyed the most.

    That's it. As aways, just my opinion so take it with the appropriate measure of salt.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    All of the stories involve one or more females capable of getting things done. Sometimes they’re even the ones who own the notable footwear. I’ve read books by most of the authors, but found a couple whose books I’d really like to explore. There is enough world and character building in each story to follow those that are part of a series. Forked Tongues by Rachel Caine is a Holly and Andrew story, resurrection witches who have had short stories featured in both Hex Appeal and Strange Brew. In this story Holly and Andy become targets of a witch hunt. I’d like to see a full-length story about this couple.Stolen Goods by Shannon Butcher. I’m not sure if this is related to any of her series. Two people need to get together to steal something to prevent Fractogasts from opening a portal to allow more of them through. I would be interested in learning more about this version of their world and I could see a story following either of these characters, Marcus Brighton and Simone Solange.The Girl With No Name by Chris Marie Green. I’m not familiar with this author under any of her pen names and have no idea if this is a standalone story or part of a series. This one is set in New Orleans and involves a girl who wakes up not knowing who she is or why she’s wearing boots that won’t come off. She’s from the Meratoliages family. It sounds like if this isn’t part of a series, it could easily be the start of one. I found the story interesting.The Devil’s Left Boot by Faith Hunter is part of the Jane Yellowrock series. While Jane does make an appearance, the story is about the Everhart twins when they are approached by their high school nemeses looking for help in finding her mother. I found it enjoyable even though I hadn’t read the last couple of books in the series. High Stakes by Chloe Neill is part of the Chicagoland Vampire Series and focuses on Lindsey, a Cadogen House guard when she’s got to deal with her past. She’s also got to deal with her relationship with her boss, Luc. I enjoy this series, so found this story to be a real treat.The Parlor by Lucienne Diver is part of the Latter-Day Olympians series. Tori is a private investigator hired to find out if a husband is cheating. She has to go undercover at a gambling establishment and find a way into the VIP room. She finds more than she bargains for. I’ve never heard of the author before, but I’ve been snagged and will definitely be checking out the rest of the series.Red Really Isn’t My Color by Christina Henry is part of the Black Wings series, taking place between Black Night and Black Howl. Madeline Black, Lucifer’s “favorite” many-greats-granddaughter, is tasked with obtaining a special pair of enhanced red shoes, currently in the possession of the fae – who hate her. A decent addition to the series.Snakeskin by Rob Thurman is a 10-year prequel to the Trickster series. A woman who does nothing but lie comes to Trixa’s bar asking for help. Little does she understand that Trixa will actually give her what she’s looking for, just not in the way she expected. I’ve read most of the Cal Leandros series, but hadn’t gotten into this one. Going to have to go back for another look.Ruby Red by Kalayna Price is set in the same world as the Alex Craft series, but says it’s a Darque Files Story. The start of a new series? Briar Darque is an investigator with the Magical Crimes Investigation Bureau (MCIB). She and her partner, Derrick Knight, need to discover the source of a spell that’s making people ill and creating shadow entities. Readers of the Alex Craft series will want to read this one as it will tie in to the next Alex Craft story.