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Strays #2
Stray Moon
Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison has always been a great number two for the East Coast unit. But after her boss is found dead (having betrayed the paranormals he was sworn to protect), she’s suddenly thrust into a leadership role she isn’t prepared for. And it doesn’t help that she traded away memories of one of her most important team members to save another’s life during her last mission.
Too, she’s in charge of a unit that is mired in bureaucratic red tape, meaning she’s essentially under house arrest. But a West Coast Para-Marshal has astral-projected a warning: werewolves are going missing, and she needs Shiloh’s help. Last time it was vampires. This time it’s werewolves. Half-djinn herself, she knows she can’t just sit around and do nothing while paranormals are getting snatched. Her old boss may have broken his oath, but Shiloh will do anything to serve and protect.
Too, she’s in charge of a unit that is mired in bureaucratic red tape, meaning she’s essentially under house arrest. But a West Coast Para-Marshal has astral-projected a warning: werewolves are going missing, and she needs Shiloh’s help. Last time it was vampires. This time it’s werewolves. Half-djinn herself, she knows she can’t just sit around and do nothing while paranormals are getting snatched. Her old boss may have broken his oath, but Shiloh will do anything to serve and protect.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 5, 2019
24 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Meding
26 books691 followersAlso writes as Kelly Meade: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 29, 2019
Shiloh Harrison has found her place in life being an agent for the Para-Marshal agency. But they are all reeling from the betrayal of one of their own. Put on suspension, Shiloh and friends decide to help an astral projected request to find missing werewolves.
The deeper Shiloh digs into the werewolf disappearances, the more danger her and her friends find themselves in. And she can’t seem to shake the assistance of vampire that started it all.
I found Stray Moon one of the reads that kept you invested by keeping you guessing throughout. Well paced, great world building and just what this Urban Fantasy lover wants to read, Stray Moon has pushed Stray series onto my must read shelf.
I received this ARC copy of Stray Moon from Harper Voyager Impulse - HarperCollins. This is my honest and voluntary review. Stray Moon is set for publication Feb. 5, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Series: A Strays Novel
Sequence in Series: Book 2
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Harper Voyager Impulse
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
ISBN-10: 0062847708
ISBN-13: 978-0062847706
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stray-Moon-Str...
Barnes & Nobles: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stra...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/stra...
The deeper Shiloh digs into the werewolf disappearances, the more danger her and her friends find themselves in. And she can’t seem to shake the assistance of vampire that started it all.
I found Stray Moon one of the reads that kept you invested by keeping you guessing throughout. Well paced, great world building and just what this Urban Fantasy lover wants to read, Stray Moon has pushed Stray series onto my must read shelf.
I received this ARC copy of Stray Moon from Harper Voyager Impulse - HarperCollins. This is my honest and voluntary review. Stray Moon is set for publication Feb. 5, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Series: A Strays Novel
Sequence in Series: Book 2
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Harper Voyager Impulse
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
ISBN-10: 0062847708
ISBN-13: 978-0062847706
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stray-Moon-Str...
Barnes & Nobles: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stra...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/stra...
November 3, 2023
First of all, the publisher's blurb, reprinted at the top of this Goodreads page, does two things: (1) It sets up this story remarkably well, and (2) it contains huge spoilers for the first book in the series, Stray Magic. Not only that, but the current story, which begins at the end of the first one, reveals pretty much all the main events of Stray Magic, which built up suspense until a remarkable double-twist ending.
So if you haven't read the series debut yet, you're strongly advised to do so before you even look at this Goodreads page, let alone open this book #2! You might notice that other readers have really enjoyed both books, and I hope you will too. And I'll try to keep this review as free from spoilers as I can, given the present summary.
For me the best part of this novel was the adroit way the author managed the oblivion factor--the first-person narrator, Shiloh Harrison, acting head of the East Coast unit of Para-Marshals, has saved a life by accepting that all memory of the person she loved the most would be erased. It's even a surprise to her that that person turns out to be Jaxon (yes, that's his name), one of the members of her small team, who is now a total stranger to her while she has to work with him every day. Very, very well done, Ms. Meding.
Werewolves in this world live on reservations, one for each Pack, and human laws don't apply on Pack lands unless a human is involved. Chandra, a member of the West Coast unit of Para-Marshals, is worried because werewolf couples are missing from the Pack land in northern California and she suspects they've been kidnapped for nefarious purposes. The Para-Marshal service is hands off as far as werewolves are concerned, so Chandra enlists Shiloh's aid for an unofficial mission that could get both of them in trouble with their bosses. The other East Coast team members join in, and when they arrive on Pack land the Alpha (read "ruler") is only grudgingly cooperative.
Here are the other things I thought were remarkably well written: the team's interactions with the werewolves and their way of life, and each team member's impulse to do good no matter the personal cost--remember they're doing this without their Para-Marshal superiors' knowledge or approval.
The main thing I didn't like was the story itself. A bad guy with extraordinary magical powers is eventually revealed, as is an organization that threatens the existence of all paranormals, and a connection between the bad guy and the organization is suggested--but despite a lot of destruction and very big sacrifices on the part of Shiloh and her team, both the bad guy and the organization depart to do greater evil. The ending resolves one part of the story, but not the important stuff--in my opinion anyway--and there's a major shift in the whole team's situation as they face the future.
The characters were well done and seemed quite real and three-dimensional (except maybe Shiloh's mother); Tennyson the vampire ally held his own admirably, as did Jaxon and Novak, and goddesses even got into the fun before it was over. But the book really reads like Part Two of a much longer novel.
So if you haven't read the series debut yet, you're strongly advised to do so before you even look at this Goodreads page, let alone open this book #2! You might notice that other readers have really enjoyed both books, and I hope you will too. And I'll try to keep this review as free from spoilers as I can, given the present summary.
For me the best part of this novel was the adroit way the author managed the oblivion factor--the first-person narrator, Shiloh Harrison, acting head of the East Coast unit of Para-Marshals, has saved a life by accepting that all memory of the person she loved the most would be erased. It's even a surprise to her that that person turns out to be Jaxon (yes, that's his name), one of the members of her small team, who is now a total stranger to her while she has to work with him every day. Very, very well done, Ms. Meding.
Werewolves in this world live on reservations, one for each Pack, and human laws don't apply on Pack lands unless a human is involved. Chandra, a member of the West Coast unit of Para-Marshals, is worried because werewolf couples are missing from the Pack land in northern California and she suspects they've been kidnapped for nefarious purposes. The Para-Marshal service is hands off as far as werewolves are concerned, so Chandra enlists Shiloh's aid for an unofficial mission that could get both of them in trouble with their bosses. The other East Coast team members join in, and when they arrive on Pack land the Alpha (read "ruler") is only grudgingly cooperative.
Here are the other things I thought were remarkably well written: the team's interactions with the werewolves and their way of life, and each team member's impulse to do good no matter the personal cost--remember they're doing this without their Para-Marshal superiors' knowledge or approval.
The main thing I didn't like was the story itself. A bad guy with extraordinary magical powers is eventually revealed, as is an organization that threatens the existence of all paranormals, and a connection between the bad guy and the organization is suggested--but despite a lot of destruction and very big sacrifices on the part of Shiloh and her team, both the bad guy and the organization depart to do greater evil. The ending resolves one part of the story, but not the important stuff--in my opinion anyway--and there's a major shift in the whole team's situation as they face the future.
The characters were well done and seemed quite real and three-dimensional (except maybe Shiloh's mother); Tennyson the vampire ally held his own admirably, as did Jaxon and Novak, and goddesses even got into the fun before it was over. But the book really reads like Part Two of a much longer novel.
February 6, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was great! This is the second book in the Strays series which picks up just after the events of the first book so I do recommend that this series be read in order. The first book, Stay Magic, is fantastic so you wouldn't want to miss that book anyway. I loved the fact that this book hit the ground running and the excitement held throughout the story. I really enjoyed my time reading this wonderful story.
Shiloh and her crew are technically suspended from their jobs because of how their previous assignment worked out. That doesn't stop them from agreeing to help locate a group of missing werewolves in an unofficial capacity along with a member of the West Coast unit. To make matters more interesting, Shiloh cannot remember anything about her former boyfriend and current team member, Jaxon, because her memories were wiped away in a deal she made.
This story is told from Shiloh's point of view and I had a great time being in her head. It was great to see how she was struggling with the fact that she had no memories of Jaxon while he worked to deal with learning that he was the person she loved the most in the world. I thought that this aspect of the story was done extraordinarily well and I loved getting the chance to see Shiloh get to know Jaxon all over again. I feel like I got to know both Shiloh and Jaxon a lot better in the process. I thought all of the key characters in this book were very well done.
I thought that the story was exciting and the mystery was rather complex. Shiloh and her crew have an interesting set of abilities and I like how well they compliment each other. Shiloh is still learning the full extent of her abilities and I found it exciting to learn what she could do right along with her. There is no shortage of paranormal beings in this book and I find it interesting that really anything could happen at any given time. I couldn't figure out the mystery until everything was revealed which is exactly how I like for things to happen. I found this book to be quite the page-turner and there was at least one major thread that has left me very eager to see what will happen next.
I would highly recommend this series to others. I think that this is a wonderfully exciting story filled with fantastic characters in a well-developed world. I cannot wait to see what Shiloh and the crew will be faced with next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Harper Voyager via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
This was excellent! It does begin right after the events in the first book so this would be a series that does need to be read in order. I liked the whole set up for this installment and liked the characters even more. I can't wait to read more of this series.
This was great! This is the second book in the Strays series which picks up just after the events of the first book so I do recommend that this series be read in order. The first book, Stay Magic, is fantastic so you wouldn't want to miss that book anyway. I loved the fact that this book hit the ground running and the excitement held throughout the story. I really enjoyed my time reading this wonderful story.
Shiloh and her crew are technically suspended from their jobs because of how their previous assignment worked out. That doesn't stop them from agreeing to help locate a group of missing werewolves in an unofficial capacity along with a member of the West Coast unit. To make matters more interesting, Shiloh cannot remember anything about her former boyfriend and current team member, Jaxon, because her memories were wiped away in a deal she made.
This story is told from Shiloh's point of view and I had a great time being in her head. It was great to see how she was struggling with the fact that she had no memories of Jaxon while he worked to deal with learning that he was the person she loved the most in the world. I thought that this aspect of the story was done extraordinarily well and I loved getting the chance to see Shiloh get to know Jaxon all over again. I feel like I got to know both Shiloh and Jaxon a lot better in the process. I thought all of the key characters in this book were very well done.
I thought that the story was exciting and the mystery was rather complex. Shiloh and her crew have an interesting set of abilities and I like how well they compliment each other. Shiloh is still learning the full extent of her abilities and I found it exciting to learn what she could do right along with her. There is no shortage of paranormal beings in this book and I find it interesting that really anything could happen at any given time. I couldn't figure out the mystery until everything was revealed which is exactly how I like for things to happen. I found this book to be quite the page-turner and there was at least one major thread that has left me very eager to see what will happen next.
I would highly recommend this series to others. I think that this is a wonderfully exciting story filled with fantastic characters in a well-developed world. I cannot wait to see what Shiloh and the crew will be faced with next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Harper Voyager via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
This was excellent! It does begin right after the events in the first book so this would be a series that does need to be read in order. I liked the whole set up for this installment and liked the characters even more. I can't wait to read more of this series.
April 4, 2019
If you’ve followed my reviews for a while, you know I am a fan of Kelly Meding. In fact, I finally sat down and read the 2013 Carniepunk anthology recently just to read the short story that sparked this series. And overall, I liked this book. But someone needs to sit down and have a chat with the editor.
No one should have given the green light for this much repetition. I mean, yes, it’s very important that Shiloh has forgotten Jaxon. In book one, I remember being so perplexed about who the love interest in this series would be. And then, at the very end, when she agreed to lose her memories of the person she loved most… boom! Jaxon appeared to be the guy. Add to that, I understand that coming to terms with her feelings despite the missing memories was the big emotional arc here. But for the love of Pete, this must have been reiterated at least once per page. If I didn’t already have a history with this author and an investment in the characters, I would have put the book down. I almost did anyway. And that’s a shame because, otherwise, it was a good book.
Though the vampire crisis was solved in the first book, Shiloh and her team know there are missing werewolves out there. This story follows their efforts as they try to track them down and figure out why they vanished in the first place. Along the way, we are able to enjoy the interplay of characters like Novak the incubus and Tennyson the master vampire. We get to delve more into the goddess mythologies as well as pack culture, all of which I enjoyed.
The character relationships and dynamics are well done. I am still intrigued, in particular, with whatever the heck is going on between Shiloh and Tennyson. And of course, I am down with her and Jaxon. (Vincent has always felt kind of like a throwaway.) The twist on the villain-reveal was kind of cool and I didn’t see it coming.
I am interested in where the series will go next, but if the next book beats me over the head with the repeat-stick again, no amount of author love, worldbuilding, good characters, or plot will bring me back for a fourth installment.
Take from all this what you will and decide how much this issue would bother you against what is otherwise a solid offering.
*ARC provided by publisher
No one should have given the green light for this much repetition. I mean, yes, it’s very important that Shiloh has forgotten Jaxon. In book one, I remember being so perplexed about who the love interest in this series would be. And then, at the very end, when she agreed to lose her memories of the person she loved most… boom! Jaxon appeared to be the guy. Add to that, I understand that coming to terms with her feelings despite the missing memories was the big emotional arc here. But for the love of Pete, this must have been reiterated at least once per page. If I didn’t already have a history with this author and an investment in the characters, I would have put the book down. I almost did anyway. And that’s a shame because, otherwise, it was a good book.
Though the vampire crisis was solved in the first book, Shiloh and her team know there are missing werewolves out there. This story follows their efforts as they try to track them down and figure out why they vanished in the first place. Along the way, we are able to enjoy the interplay of characters like Novak the incubus and Tennyson the master vampire. We get to delve more into the goddess mythologies as well as pack culture, all of which I enjoyed.
The character relationships and dynamics are well done. I am still intrigued, in particular, with whatever the heck is going on between Shiloh and Tennyson. And of course, I am down with her and Jaxon. (Vincent has always felt kind of like a throwaway.) The twist on the villain-reveal was kind of cool and I didn’t see it coming.
I am interested in where the series will go next, but if the next book beats me over the head with the repeat-stick again, no amount of author love, worldbuilding, good characters, or plot will bring me back for a fourth installment.
Take from all this what you will and decide how much this issue would bother you against what is otherwise a solid offering.
*ARC provided by publisher
February 14, 2019
Book Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
After loving the first book in the Stray series, Stray Magic I jumped right into Stray Moon, I mean how could I not?! Stray Moon picks up within days of the events in Stray Magic. Shiloh and the gang are on a paid suspension from the Para-Marshals but that doesn’t stop them from investigating the missing werewolves from Stray Magic.
While the focus was on the vampires in Stray Magic this time around the focus is all about the werewolves. Both groups have been targeted by the same big bad. We learn who that is in the last quarter of the book and it leaves Shiloh and her mother reeling from the familial connection.
Shiloh has to deal with the memory loss of someone in her life (I don’t want to name the character because it’s a spoiler for the first book). Because of some hidden powers, Shiloh is able to work around the memory loss with shared thoughts and the other character. It seems Shiloh half djinn side is not the only part of her that gives her strength. Her magical genes from her mother’s side of the family are shaking things up with new emerging powers. I think Shiloh will only get more powerful and interesting as the series continues.
Stray Moon much like its predecessor, follows the small group of friends into a case where they save many lives and learn there is a bigger agenda when it comes to the humans vs paranormals. It looks like there might be a war coming and I can only hope that Tennyson, Master vampire continues to want to do a “ride along” with Shiloh and the gang as they try to find the big bad who is still at large.
The hardest thing about reading Stray Magic and Stray Moon back to back is waiting for the next novel in the Stray series. I. Need. It. Now.
My Rating:
A, Loved It
After loving the first book in the Stray series, Stray Magic I jumped right into Stray Moon, I mean how could I not?! Stray Moon picks up within days of the events in Stray Magic. Shiloh and the gang are on a paid suspension from the Para-Marshals but that doesn’t stop them from investigating the missing werewolves from Stray Magic.
While the focus was on the vampires in Stray Magic this time around the focus is all about the werewolves. Both groups have been targeted by the same big bad. We learn who that is in the last quarter of the book and it leaves Shiloh and her mother reeling from the familial connection.
Shiloh has to deal with the memory loss of someone in her life (I don’t want to name the character because it’s a spoiler for the first book). Because of some hidden powers, Shiloh is able to work around the memory loss with shared thoughts and the other character. It seems Shiloh half djinn side is not the only part of her that gives her strength. Her magical genes from her mother’s side of the family are shaking things up with new emerging powers. I think Shiloh will only get more powerful and interesting as the series continues.
Stray Moon much like its predecessor, follows the small group of friends into a case where they save many lives and learn there is a bigger agenda when it comes to the humans vs paranormals. It looks like there might be a war coming and I can only hope that Tennyson, Master vampire continues to want to do a “ride along” with Shiloh and the gang as they try to find the big bad who is still at large.
The hardest thing about reading Stray Magic and Stray Moon back to back is waiting for the next novel in the Stray series. I. Need. It. Now.
My Rating:
A, Loved It
January 30, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Stray Moon is the second installment in author Kelly Meding's Stray series. Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison's team is in shatters. Two members have been outed as being double agents for a mysterious employer. Their team leader betrayed them, and Shiloh herself bargained away her memories of the person she loves the most in order to save lives. But, there's no time to wallow in self-pity. Not with the US Marshal services keeping an eye out for any more wrong doing on their part.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Stray Moon is the second installment in author Kelly Meding's Stray series. Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison's team is in shatters. Two members have been outed as being double agents for a mysterious employer. Their team leader betrayed them, and Shiloh herself bargained away her memories of the person she loves the most in order to save lives. But, there's no time to wallow in self-pity. Not with the US Marshal services keeping an eye out for any more wrong doing on their part.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
March 25, 2019
There was a lot going on in this one. Some of it was really good, some not so much. One thing is for sure, Shiloh and her people aren't going to give up quietly, they are going to keep fighting and do the right thing because as they found out with this book there is evil out there, ready to take you down and subvert you and you can't let them win.
February 16, 2019
** HEAVY SPOILERS AHEAD (NOT BEHIND SPOILER TAG) -- YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED **
Aaargh, why you are doing this, author?!? Erasing the memory of Jaxon from Shiloh's mind (because apparently, she loves him the most) in the first book, and now Jaxon has been taken by the evil mastermind, who is actually Shiloh's own grandfather?!? AAARGH, I need to know if there's book #3 in the progress!!!
Anyway, a great follow-up to Stray Magic released last year, Shiloh and the rest of her team -- Novak and Jaxon -- with an amused Tennyson tagging along, helps another Para-Marshall to locate missing werewolves. In which, Shiloh discovers about his grandfather.
The pace is fast, and Kelly Meding teases with the possibility of Shiloh and Jaxon rekindling their love, even if Shiloh cannot remember anything about Jaxon. In the first book, I sort of wanting Shiloh with Tennyson, but now I feel like he's more like her older brother...
Aaargh, why you are doing this, author?!? Erasing the memory of Jaxon from Shiloh's mind (because apparently, she loves him the most) in the first book, and now Jaxon has been taken by the evil mastermind, who is actually Shiloh's own grandfather?!? AAARGH, I need to know if there's book #3 in the progress!!!
Anyway, a great follow-up to Stray Magic released last year, Shiloh and the rest of her team -- Novak and Jaxon -- with an amused Tennyson tagging along, helps another Para-Marshall to locate missing werewolves. In which, Shiloh discovers about his grandfather.
The pace is fast, and Kelly Meding teases with the possibility of Shiloh and Jaxon rekindling their love, even if Shiloh cannot remember anything about Jaxon. In the first book, I sort of wanting Shiloh with Tennyson, but now I feel like he's more like her older brother...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2019
I hadn’t heard of this series (I honestly don’t know how) but with an opportunity to review a title that offered something different from the norm, I was all in. And what a ride this was! Entering in the second book can leave some holes, but most of these were related to the ‘what happened before’, all generally explained in the story, but not really making a difference to just how much I enjoyed this story. Para-Marshall, Shiloh Harrison is a Djinn and the new leader of the East Coast unit after the death of her boss. In the previous novel, she had made a bargain with her memories to save a team member – and that loss is reverberating throughout the current story. Was it a betrayal, and is the person she saved worth giving up those memories? But, even more pressing is the disappearing werewolves that have been noticed by the leader of the West Coast division, and if Shiloh and her team are bold enough (or bored enough with the virtual ‘house arrest’ of their unit) to defy orders and jump in to help? Shiloh isn’t particularly concerned with the ramifications – she was sworn to serve AND protect, and she knows that her skills as a Djinn, as well as her skills in finding answers will be of use.
What is happening to the werewolves, and will Shiloh be able to untangle the many webs that surround this case? Who is in charge of the cover-up and will she be able to answer questions around Kathleen and Damien, can she save Jaxon, and is there a way to get her memory back – and if she does will it provide the answers to the many questions she has ? Oh this was a sweet set of circumstances that provided more questions with each and every new answer, with twists, turns and even more questions with each page. Never ending from first to last, the story takes us from interrogation to California, then on to a small town in Kansas, with black magic, a new witch, the arrival of Shiloh’s mum for some answers and her ongoing friendship with a master vampire – also intent on finding the source of the threat here in Kansas.
Uncovering information that can (and does) affect relationships, as well as the additions of new members and increasing roles from long-standing members, relationship angst and some drama all come together with one hell of a cliffhanger that has me chomping at the bit for the next book – after, of course, having read the first and re-reading this one with information that I may have missed due to the author’s skill at flushing out the ‘backstories’ and ‘motivations’ both overt and covert with each of the characters. I loved Meding’s use of the paranormal elements that added an extra ‘oomph’ to the characters, and the ongoing questions that Shiloh has about her place and skills, while still managing to always choose the most honorable path at the time with the information she had made her a standout character and one that we hope the best for. A wonderful introduction to this series, that doesn’t feel too complicated as you start, but builds interest in the first book and will leave you clamoring for the next.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
What is happening to the werewolves, and will Shiloh be able to untangle the many webs that surround this case? Who is in charge of the cover-up and will she be able to answer questions around Kathleen and Damien, can she save Jaxon, and is there a way to get her memory back – and if she does will it provide the answers to the many questions she has ? Oh this was a sweet set of circumstances that provided more questions with each and every new answer, with twists, turns and even more questions with each page. Never ending from first to last, the story takes us from interrogation to California, then on to a small town in Kansas, with black magic, a new witch, the arrival of Shiloh’s mum for some answers and her ongoing friendship with a master vampire – also intent on finding the source of the threat here in Kansas.
Uncovering information that can (and does) affect relationships, as well as the additions of new members and increasing roles from long-standing members, relationship angst and some drama all come together with one hell of a cliffhanger that has me chomping at the bit for the next book – after, of course, having read the first and re-reading this one with information that I may have missed due to the author’s skill at flushing out the ‘backstories’ and ‘motivations’ both overt and covert with each of the characters. I loved Meding’s use of the paranormal elements that added an extra ‘oomph’ to the characters, and the ongoing questions that Shiloh has about her place and skills, while still managing to always choose the most honorable path at the time with the information she had made her a standout character and one that we hope the best for. A wonderful introduction to this series, that doesn’t feel too complicated as you start, but builds interest in the first book and will leave you clamoring for the next.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
March 6, 2019
3.5* This one took time for me to get into, will read the next one
February 3, 2019
I have read this author this before, and I was very excited to see she had written another series. Here I am at the second book, and I am very glad I picked up this series to begin with. To be honest, I did like the first book slightly better than this second one, but I still loved every second I spent in Shiloh’s world. She is unofficially looking into the disappearance of the wolves that happened in the first book, and while doing so, she uncovers many things, one of which made me gasp out loud. She’s also dealing with the fallout from losing the memories of the one she loves the most which comes into play towards the end. No, I’m not going into any details as I don’t want to spoil anything. I love the characters, the plot, and the writing, and I will definitely be reading the next one, hopefully soon! I highly recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
February 15, 2019
The East Coast unit of the Para-Marshals went through a lot in STRAY MAGIC. Their team is no longer whole, but when they find out that werewolves are going missing Shiloh is determined to help.
There was a ton of mystery going on in STRAY MOON. I enjoyed all of the investigating aspects of the storyline. Shiloh—and her mother— get a pretty big shock when their connection to the bad guy is revealed. I didn't see it coming either.
There really isn't any romance involved in STRAY MOON, but the connection between Shiloh and Jaxon grows as she slowly learns about the connection that they lost when her memories were taken. I'm still really confused about Tennyson. Sometimes I feel like there is a small romantic connection between him and Shiloh and then other times I just feel a sort of sister/brother protection vibe happening. Either way, they work really well together and I hope he continues to want to tag along with her and her team on future adventures.
There was plenty of action, the world building continues to grow the world and the characters continue to entertain and intrigue me. The Strays series will continue to be on my wishlist.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
There was a ton of mystery going on in STRAY MOON. I enjoyed all of the investigating aspects of the storyline. Shiloh—and her mother— get a pretty big shock when their connection to the bad guy is revealed. I didn't see it coming either.
There really isn't any romance involved in STRAY MOON, but the connection between Shiloh and Jaxon grows as she slowly learns about the connection that they lost when her memories were taken. I'm still really confused about Tennyson. Sometimes I feel like there is a small romantic connection between him and Shiloh and then other times I just feel a sort of sister/brother protection vibe happening. Either way, they work really well together and I hope he continues to want to tag along with her and her team on future adventures.
There was plenty of action, the world building continues to grow the world and the characters continue to entertain and intrigue me. The Strays series will continue to be on my wishlist.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2019
>>>>>My Synopsis (Review follows):<<<<<
Eighty years ago, after World War II, the world learned that werewolves were real. They returned from the War among other revered heroes. Many myths were dispelled about them during that time, while others were proven to be true. Most could handle people who turned into wolves once a month and lived with their Pack, secluded from the bulk of society. When vampires came out ten years later, however, things got ugly. Many people couldn’t seem to handle the idea of bloodsuckers living next door, buying blood from willing donors, and generally proving that yes, some things really do go bump in the night. Not even the knowledge of how much control Masters had over their lines, or the care taken in choosing and turning new vampires seemed to assuage the bulk of folks—especially the religious ones.
Six years ago the Paranormal Investigation Units were officially formed—thanks to Julius Almeida and a few well-placed friends—on the argument that unique abilities were needed to handle other unique abilities. Shiloh Harrison is a Federal Marshal in one of the two existing Paranormal Investigations Units. For six years, the units were a force unto themselves with practically no oversight from the Department of Justice. As long as they do what is expected of them and keep the peace, they are left alone.
Two days ago, Shiloh and her team prevented a madman from creating a vampire army. They subsequently uncovered the deadly plot which revealed that the two men who had been in charge of the Paranormal Investigation Units were corrupt with hidden agendas. Two other members of the teams had been found to be double agents bringing all agents into question. Shiloh and her remaining teammates have been suspended for the past two days as their stories were collaborated, and their parts in the incident investigated. Things were complicated by the fact that Shiloh's memories were tampered with due to a deal she made with one of a sidhe. In exchange for information, she traded the memories of the person she loved the most. That person ended up being one of her teammates, Jaxon. For that reason, her story varied from the rest of her team where Jaxon was involved. For the next seven days they'll be on mandatory leave, and the future of the Para Marshals remains in question.
When Shiloh and her unit managed to expose the evil machinations of their superiors, they found something significantly absent--the missing werewolves. When they are approached by one of the Para Marshal from the other unit, and are asked to help locate the missing werewolves, they decide to forge ahead. Unsure if they'll ever be given permission to pursue any leads, but knowing time is of the essence they start investigating. All the while the memory of the threat that Weller and his cohort's made, that war is coming, looms in the background...
>>>>>My Review:<<<<<
This is the second book of the Strays series, and if Kelly continues on the course she's so far plotted for this series, I believe I may have just found one of my next favorite paranormal fantasy series. Pardon me while I do a little happy dance. *grin* I recommend you read Stray Magic before starting this novel. It lays the foundation for the series, and if you don't read it first, you'll kick yourself later.
This novel reminded me a bit of Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series. Perhaps it's the fact that werewolves are involved, or maybe it's a little of the situation that plays out. All I know is that I'm loving the story and the intricacies that are involved in solving the cases.
Just when we think we know all there was to know about Shiloh (minus a few backstories), the author pulls something out of her sleeve and boom. We find out we don't know the half of it. I rather liked that. Shiloh makes some poor choices in this one, but she's a passionate individual who seems to always put others first. Plus, she doesn't really know who to trust. If her bosses were corrupt who else could be? After all, the Paranormal Investigation Units were the brain child of Julius, Shiloh's former boss, and some of his friends, and that makes everything so very interesting. I'm very intrigued as to where this series will go.
At the beginning of Stray Moon, 14 mated pairs of werewolves are missing from their packs. The only other common links among them is that none of them have any children and they all seemingly vanished without a word to anyone. When Shiloh and her team start to investigate, they meet with some resistance from the pack's Alpha, but as they explain why they are there they're given leave to investigate.
Chandra Goodfellow is a Moon witch and a Para Marshal from the other Paranormal Investigations Unit that exists. She's got a personal stake in two of the werewolves that went missing. She helped the pair give birth to three healthy children. They are the only pair among the missing that have ever had children, but their children died under suspicious circumstances. Since Packs don't allow modern medicine, the true reason that they died may be forever lost. As Shiloh and crew investigate, they uncover a disturbing fact--the number of children being born to werewolves over the years has diminished significantly. Whether this is a natural occurrence, or whether something far more nefarious is going on remains a mystery. It's all part of the puzzle Shiloh and her team will need to figure out.
I couldn't help but give this one 5 out of 5 roses. I'm loving the dynamics between the characters, the creativeness of how the team maneuvers situations, and even the cliffhangers at the end. The series has so many hints of things to come scattered throughout that it sparks one's neurons and makes you wonder where things will go next. I love when a series does that. I'm again foregoing a romance rating as this one is sorely lacking in that department. There is a hint of a whisper that one is on the horizon, but it's just not in the cards, or dare I say pages, yet. *grin*
Eighty years ago, after World War II, the world learned that werewolves were real. They returned from the War among other revered heroes. Many myths were dispelled about them during that time, while others were proven to be true. Most could handle people who turned into wolves once a month and lived with their Pack, secluded from the bulk of society. When vampires came out ten years later, however, things got ugly. Many people couldn’t seem to handle the idea of bloodsuckers living next door, buying blood from willing donors, and generally proving that yes, some things really do go bump in the night. Not even the knowledge of how much control Masters had over their lines, or the care taken in choosing and turning new vampires seemed to assuage the bulk of folks—especially the religious ones.
Six years ago the Paranormal Investigation Units were officially formed—thanks to Julius Almeida and a few well-placed friends—on the argument that unique abilities were needed to handle other unique abilities. Shiloh Harrison is a Federal Marshal in one of the two existing Paranormal Investigations Units. For six years, the units were a force unto themselves with practically no oversight from the Department of Justice. As long as they do what is expected of them and keep the peace, they are left alone.
Two days ago, Shiloh and her team prevented a madman from creating a vampire army. They subsequently uncovered the deadly plot which revealed that the two men who had been in charge of the Paranormal Investigation Units were corrupt with hidden agendas. Two other members of the teams had been found to be double agents bringing all agents into question. Shiloh and her remaining teammates have been suspended for the past two days as their stories were collaborated, and their parts in the incident investigated. Things were complicated by the fact that Shiloh's memories were tampered with due to a deal she made with one of a sidhe. In exchange for information, she traded the memories of the person she loved the most. That person ended up being one of her teammates, Jaxon. For that reason, her story varied from the rest of her team where Jaxon was involved. For the next seven days they'll be on mandatory leave, and the future of the Para Marshals remains in question.
When Shiloh and her unit managed to expose the evil machinations of their superiors, they found something significantly absent--the missing werewolves. When they are approached by one of the Para Marshal from the other unit, and are asked to help locate the missing werewolves, they decide to forge ahead. Unsure if they'll ever be given permission to pursue any leads, but knowing time is of the essence they start investigating. All the while the memory of the threat that Weller and his cohort's made, that war is coming, looms in the background...
>>>>>My Review:<<<<<
This is the second book of the Strays series, and if Kelly continues on the course she's so far plotted for this series, I believe I may have just found one of my next favorite paranormal fantasy series. Pardon me while I do a little happy dance. *grin* I recommend you read Stray Magic before starting this novel. It lays the foundation for the series, and if you don't read it first, you'll kick yourself later.
This novel reminded me a bit of Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series. Perhaps it's the fact that werewolves are involved, or maybe it's a little of the situation that plays out. All I know is that I'm loving the story and the intricacies that are involved in solving the cases.
Just when we think we know all there was to know about Shiloh (minus a few backstories), the author pulls something out of her sleeve and boom. We find out we don't know the half of it. I rather liked that. Shiloh makes some poor choices in this one, but she's a passionate individual who seems to always put others first. Plus, she doesn't really know who to trust. If her bosses were corrupt who else could be? After all, the Paranormal Investigation Units were the brain child of Julius, Shiloh's former boss, and some of his friends, and that makes everything so very interesting. I'm very intrigued as to where this series will go.
At the beginning of Stray Moon, 14 mated pairs of werewolves are missing from their packs. The only other common links among them is that none of them have any children and they all seemingly vanished without a word to anyone. When Shiloh and her team start to investigate, they meet with some resistance from the pack's Alpha, but as they explain why they are there they're given leave to investigate.
Chandra Goodfellow is a Moon witch and a Para Marshal from the other Paranormal Investigations Unit that exists. She's got a personal stake in two of the werewolves that went missing. She helped the pair give birth to three healthy children. They are the only pair among the missing that have ever had children, but their children died under suspicious circumstances. Since Packs don't allow modern medicine, the true reason that they died may be forever lost. As Shiloh and crew investigate, they uncover a disturbing fact--the number of children being born to werewolves over the years has diminished significantly. Whether this is a natural occurrence, or whether something far more nefarious is going on remains a mystery. It's all part of the puzzle Shiloh and her team will need to figure out.
I couldn't help but give this one 5 out of 5 roses. I'm loving the dynamics between the characters, the creativeness of how the team maneuvers situations, and even the cliffhangers at the end. The series has so many hints of things to come scattered throughout that it sparks one's neurons and makes you wonder where things will go next. I love when a series does that. I'm again foregoing a romance rating as this one is sorely lacking in that department. There is a hint of a whisper that one is on the horizon, but it's just not in the cards, or dare I say pages, yet. *grin*
February 22, 2019
Summary from Goodreads:
"Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison has always been a great number two for the East Coast unit. But after her boss is found dead (having betrayed the paranormals he was sworn to protect), she’s suddenly thrust into a leadership role she isn’t prepared for. And it doesn’t help that she traded away memories of one of her most important team members to save another’s life during her last mission.
Too, she’s in charge of a unit that is mired in bureaucratic red tape, meaning she’s essentially under house arrest. But a West Coast Para-Marshal has astral-projected a warning: werewolves are going missing, and she needs Shiloh’s help. Last time it was vampires. This time it’s werewolves. Half-djinn herself, she knows she can’t just sit around and do nothing while paranormals are getting snatched. Her old boss may have broken his oath, but Shiloh will do anything to serve and protect."
My Thoughts:
I am well and truly hooked on this series now thanks to this latest book! Urban fantasy has always held a special place in my readerly heart. There just isn't enough new series coming out lately in my opinion which is a shame. Happily enough I found this series right at the beginning with the first book Stray Magic. Without sharing any spoilers, that first book left me very eager to get my hands on this newest book so I jumped at the chance to read it. It was just as good as I had hoped that it would be I'm happy to report. I picked this book up and jumped right back into where I had left off in book one it felt like. Let me start off by saying though that I really do think that you need to read this series in order so start with book one. It's not that the author didn't do a good job of catching the reader up on the action from that first book (she actually does a really great job of it) but there is just so much that carries over from that first book that I really do recommend reading them in order. For me, the details she gave from that previous book were enough to help jog my memory so that I didn't feel lost when starting on this one which sometimes can happen when waiting to read books in series for periods of time. I absolutely adore the characters in this series! Shiloh is everything that I could want as a main character. She is kick-ass when she needs to be but also both vulnerable and caring. Her team and job as a para-marshal are two of the most important things to her and it shows throughout the book. I love how this author has taken different types of paranormal characters and featured them as main characters rather than just your typical vampires and shifters. Sure, this book has them too but it isn't often that you see a half genie as your main character! This book was just as fast paced as the first book so I breezed through the pages of it. I actually finished the last half of the book all in one chunk after work one evening because I just couldn't stop reading. I'm so curious to see where this author is going to take us next after the way this book ended! It is going to be a very long wait until book three - that's for sure!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and am so excited to have found this series! I NEED more urban fantasy series like this in my life! Books like this are just so fun to read. I love how action packed this was, all of the different types of characters, and there is even a little bit of mystery behind who could be involved in it all. All of this combines into a book that I just couldn't set down! I would recommend this series to fans of urban fantasy and paranormal. I stand by my recommendation of reading them in order. There are only two books so far so it's not like there are ten books to catch up on (although at this rate I would still say they were worth taking the time to read). Easily recommended!
Bottom Line: A great addition to this series that has me wishing I had book three in my hands already!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss. Thoughts are my own.
"Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison has always been a great number two for the East Coast unit. But after her boss is found dead (having betrayed the paranormals he was sworn to protect), she’s suddenly thrust into a leadership role she isn’t prepared for. And it doesn’t help that she traded away memories of one of her most important team members to save another’s life during her last mission.
Too, she’s in charge of a unit that is mired in bureaucratic red tape, meaning she’s essentially under house arrest. But a West Coast Para-Marshal has astral-projected a warning: werewolves are going missing, and she needs Shiloh’s help. Last time it was vampires. This time it’s werewolves. Half-djinn herself, she knows she can’t just sit around and do nothing while paranormals are getting snatched. Her old boss may have broken his oath, but Shiloh will do anything to serve and protect."
My Thoughts:
I am well and truly hooked on this series now thanks to this latest book! Urban fantasy has always held a special place in my readerly heart. There just isn't enough new series coming out lately in my opinion which is a shame. Happily enough I found this series right at the beginning with the first book Stray Magic. Without sharing any spoilers, that first book left me very eager to get my hands on this newest book so I jumped at the chance to read it. It was just as good as I had hoped that it would be I'm happy to report. I picked this book up and jumped right back into where I had left off in book one it felt like. Let me start off by saying though that I really do think that you need to read this series in order so start with book one. It's not that the author didn't do a good job of catching the reader up on the action from that first book (she actually does a really great job of it) but there is just so much that carries over from that first book that I really do recommend reading them in order. For me, the details she gave from that previous book were enough to help jog my memory so that I didn't feel lost when starting on this one which sometimes can happen when waiting to read books in series for periods of time. I absolutely adore the characters in this series! Shiloh is everything that I could want as a main character. She is kick-ass when she needs to be but also both vulnerable and caring. Her team and job as a para-marshal are two of the most important things to her and it shows throughout the book. I love how this author has taken different types of paranormal characters and featured them as main characters rather than just your typical vampires and shifters. Sure, this book has them too but it isn't often that you see a half genie as your main character! This book was just as fast paced as the first book so I breezed through the pages of it. I actually finished the last half of the book all in one chunk after work one evening because I just couldn't stop reading. I'm so curious to see where this author is going to take us next after the way this book ended! It is going to be a very long wait until book three - that's for sure!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and am so excited to have found this series! I NEED more urban fantasy series like this in my life! Books like this are just so fun to read. I love how action packed this was, all of the different types of characters, and there is even a little bit of mystery behind who could be involved in it all. All of this combines into a book that I just couldn't set down! I would recommend this series to fans of urban fantasy and paranormal. I stand by my recommendation of reading them in order. There are only two books so far so it's not like there are ten books to catch up on (although at this rate I would still say they were worth taking the time to read). Easily recommended!
Bottom Line: A great addition to this series that has me wishing I had book three in my hands already!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss. Thoughts are my own.
February 11, 2019
Review originally posted at https://smexybooks.com/2019/02/angela...
Favorite Quote:
“You were always meant to be a hero, Shiloh Harrison. And a leader. “
The second book in Kelly Meding’s Strays series picks up immediately where its predecessor ends. If you haven’t read the first book, Stray Magic, I would absolutely go back and read it before you dive into Stray Moon, you will be lost otherwise.
Shiloh has been through the ringer. Her whole identity over the last couple of years has revolved around her work with the Para-Marshalls. Now she has uncovered a betrayal by her supervisor, worked with and befriended a Master Vampire, and given up the memories of the one she loves most in order to save everyone from an evil necromancer. When Stray Moon opens she is sitting in an interrogation room after having gone over those events repeatedly. She and her team receive a suspension, but that doesn’t mean they are going to sit on their hands doing nothing.
After a request for help from a fellow para-marshall, Shiloh and crew agree to help find out what happened to the missing werewolf couples that were first mentioned in their previous case. After visiting the Pack lands in California, and discovering black magic afoot, they track the missing werewolves to Kansas. And despite the small town, come up against something more powerful than they’ve ever encountered before.
I’ve really enjoyed this series so far. There is so much going on,l but I adore this ensemble cast. Shiloh is half human (with magic sensitivity) and half dijinn and she is absolutely dedicated to her job and team mates. Jaxon (skin-walker) and Novak (incubus) are what is left of her team. Woodrow Tennyson is the Master Vampire who they assisted in book one and he remains an integral part of the group. Chandra Goodfellow (moon witch)makes her first appearance when she appears telepathically in Shiloh’s mind asking for help finding the missing wolves. Last, but not least, is Shiloh’s mother Elsbeth. Daughter of a warlock, she is sensitive to magic and helps out when asked.
Like I mentioned above, there is a lot going on. I kind of feel like as busy as the first book was, book two is even more hella packed with plot points and relationship angst and drama and new discoveries (that affect the plot arc). Not to mention that there is one hell of a cliffhanger. I almost have to read the next book in the series, because DAMN.
I’m not sure what is going on with Tennyson, but I do know he’s sticking around for more than just because he’s a nice guy. After the revelation of who the bad guy is to Shiloh, I’m sure there are powers she’s yet to discover and I think Tennyson is a little entranced. I am super curious to see where their relationship goes. I thought it might be romantic, but now I don’t think so. I was glad to see Chandra join the group at the end, because I love the idea of her and Novak together and I hope to see more of them in the future.
I enjoyed this second installment in the Strays series. Looking forward to what comes next. Final Grade- B
Favorite Quote:
“You were always meant to be a hero, Shiloh Harrison. And a leader. “
The second book in Kelly Meding’s Strays series picks up immediately where its predecessor ends. If you haven’t read the first book, Stray Magic, I would absolutely go back and read it before you dive into Stray Moon, you will be lost otherwise.
Shiloh has been through the ringer. Her whole identity over the last couple of years has revolved around her work with the Para-Marshalls. Now she has uncovered a betrayal by her supervisor, worked with and befriended a Master Vampire, and given up the memories of the one she loves most in order to save everyone from an evil necromancer. When Stray Moon opens she is sitting in an interrogation room after having gone over those events repeatedly. She and her team receive a suspension, but that doesn’t mean they are going to sit on their hands doing nothing.
After a request for help from a fellow para-marshall, Shiloh and crew agree to help find out what happened to the missing werewolf couples that were first mentioned in their previous case. After visiting the Pack lands in California, and discovering black magic afoot, they track the missing werewolves to Kansas. And despite the small town, come up against something more powerful than they’ve ever encountered before.
I’ve really enjoyed this series so far. There is so much going on,l but I adore this ensemble cast. Shiloh is half human (with magic sensitivity) and half dijinn and she is absolutely dedicated to her job and team mates. Jaxon (skin-walker) and Novak (incubus) are what is left of her team. Woodrow Tennyson is the Master Vampire who they assisted in book one and he remains an integral part of the group. Chandra Goodfellow (moon witch)makes her first appearance when she appears telepathically in Shiloh’s mind asking for help finding the missing wolves. Last, but not least, is Shiloh’s mother Elsbeth. Daughter of a warlock, she is sensitive to magic and helps out when asked.
Like I mentioned above, there is a lot going on. I kind of feel like as busy as the first book was, book two is even more hella packed with plot points and relationship angst and drama and new discoveries (that affect the plot arc). Not to mention that there is one hell of a cliffhanger. I almost have to read the next book in the series, because DAMN.
I’m not sure what is going on with Tennyson, but I do know he’s sticking around for more than just because he’s a nice guy. After the revelation of who the bad guy is to Shiloh, I’m sure there are powers she’s yet to discover and I think Tennyson is a little entranced. I am super curious to see where their relationship goes. I thought it might be romantic, but now I don’t think so. I was glad to see Chandra join the group at the end, because I love the idea of her and Novak together and I hope to see more of them in the future.
I enjoyed this second installment in the Strays series. Looking forward to what comes next. Final Grade- B
February 3, 2019
Clearly, I must live under a rock, as I had not head of the Strays series by Kelly Medina, and although in my defense, I don’t read too many paranormal books. But when Andrew over at Harper Voyager Impulse offered me a chance to read book 2 in the series, my whole thought was… hmm why not, a change is as good as a rest, but what he didn’t tell me is just how obsessed I would become with this book!
From the synopsis of this book you will see that this is focused around the Para-Marshal and Djinn Shiloh Harrison and the aftermath of being betrayed by her superior, she is thrust into a leadership role that she doesn’t want, and she also has to learn to trust a team member that she traded her memories of to save others lives, and because the Marshal service frowns on that sort of thing, she is forced into paid leave, but of course, Shiloh and her team are not going to sit back and do nothing, so when a west coast Moon witch asks for help with some missing werewolves, they head to California, only nothing is what it seems!
Now at the time of writing this review, I haven’t read book one in the series, but that is going to change bloody quickly, as I have become totally obsessed with this band of “strays”, Damien and finding out who inside the U.S. Marshall service is creating this huge cover up! And now I’m at the end of book two, I’m going out of my mind with questions like… will Shiloh get her memory back? will they be able to save Jaxon? who is Kathleen boss? and what happened to the Werewolves? So many questions.
Stray Moon is a series book, but totally can be read as a stand-alone, as the author writes in such a way that you miss nothing! And unlike some paranormal romantic suspense books I have read before, this book is extremely well written, gripping and addictive! So much so, that I’m breaking my no series books rule, and Stay Moon has a grip of me, and I’m totally fine with not letting it go!
I give Stray Moon 5 Stars!
From the synopsis of this book you will see that this is focused around the Para-Marshal and Djinn Shiloh Harrison and the aftermath of being betrayed by her superior, she is thrust into a leadership role that she doesn’t want, and she also has to learn to trust a team member that she traded her memories of to save others lives, and because the Marshal service frowns on that sort of thing, she is forced into paid leave, but of course, Shiloh and her team are not going to sit back and do nothing, so when a west coast Moon witch asks for help with some missing werewolves, they head to California, only nothing is what it seems!
Now at the time of writing this review, I haven’t read book one in the series, but that is going to change bloody quickly, as I have become totally obsessed with this band of “strays”, Damien and finding out who inside the U.S. Marshall service is creating this huge cover up! And now I’m at the end of book two, I’m going out of my mind with questions like… will Shiloh get her memory back? will they be able to save Jaxon? who is Kathleen boss? and what happened to the Werewolves? So many questions.
Stray Moon is a series book, but totally can be read as a stand-alone, as the author writes in such a way that you miss nothing! And unlike some paranormal romantic suspense books I have read before, this book is extremely well written, gripping and addictive! So much so, that I’m breaking my no series books rule, and Stay Moon has a grip of me, and I’m totally fine with not letting it go!
I give Stray Moon 5 Stars!
February 6, 2019
Note: This is a review of the second book in the Strays series, which features a continuing story arc. Therefore, this review may contain spoilers for the first book, Stray Magic.
I could not wait to get my hands on this book after what happened in Stray Magic, with our heroine losing her memories of the one she loved most. Our heroine is Shiloh Harrison, a half-human djinn who discovered corruption in the Para-Marshals in the last book. So Shiloh and her team members are smarting from the betrayal while also trying to recover from injuries suffered in the defeat of the perpetrators. Unfortunately, Shiloh's lingering issues are more mental, as she lost all memories of Jaxon - her teammate and former lover. It was interesting to watch the interaction between the two, with one remembering the love and emotional connection, while the other had a complete blank space. I see very interesting things going forward for these two.
Shiloh and team haven't forgotten about the missing and infertile werewolves, whom they first learned about in Stray Moon. Now that Tennyson's missing vampire issue has been solved, the gang goes off to join with other Para-Marshals to investigate the missing weres. The reason behind the missing wolves was somewhat predictable, but I didn't find that it took much away from the story. There were a couple of surprises that I didn't see coming, and they renewed my interest in the story the few times it was flagging.
Overall, I am enjoying this series... and I am super happy that Meding has decided to write in the urban fantasy genre. I love to follow one heroine/couple across the series, as I find that I get much more invested in the characters and the story outcome.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher.
I could not wait to get my hands on this book after what happened in Stray Magic, with our heroine losing her memories of the one she loved most. Our heroine is Shiloh Harrison, a half-human djinn who discovered corruption in the Para-Marshals in the last book. So Shiloh and her team members are smarting from the betrayal while also trying to recover from injuries suffered in the defeat of the perpetrators. Unfortunately, Shiloh's lingering issues are more mental, as she lost all memories of Jaxon - her teammate and former lover. It was interesting to watch the interaction between the two, with one remembering the love and emotional connection, while the other had a complete blank space. I see very interesting things going forward for these two.
Shiloh and team haven't forgotten about the missing and infertile werewolves, whom they first learned about in Stray Moon. Now that Tennyson's missing vampire issue has been solved, the gang goes off to join with other Para-Marshals to investigate the missing weres. The reason behind the missing wolves was somewhat predictable, but I didn't find that it took much away from the story. There were a couple of surprises that I didn't see coming, and they renewed my interest in the story the few times it was flagging.
Overall, I am enjoying this series... and I am super happy that Meding has decided to write in the urban fantasy genre. I love to follow one heroine/couple across the series, as I find that I get much more invested in the characters and the story outcome.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher.
February 4, 2019
I was given a digital copy of this title, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book picks up shortly after where book 1 ends. So if you have not read that one, do it. I will try to not give any spoilers for Book 1, but I make no promises.
Shiloh and the rest of her team are being questioned after the events of the last book. In the middle of the questioning, she receives a request via astral projection from the California Para-marshal team to help find the missing werewolves that were discovered during the beginning of the Vampire case. So they are tangentially related. Giving a week of forced vacation, Shiloh and the other two members of her team left standing agree to help. But it leads them to a small town full of surprises and lies.
I don't want to go into too much detail, because I don't want to give anything way. But I will say that if you were like me and waiting for the next book, you will not be disappointed. The dynamics of the team -and character development - is still there, but it is also growing as you learn more about the team. There is so much to discover about them as an individual and as a whole team, and I found it fascinating. Even as Shiloh rediscovers Jax- I thought that ti would be annoying with a lot of back and forth, but it wasn't.
The case unravels in a pretty predictable way, until some truth bombs are discovered and then the team realizes that the stakes are much higher than anticipated, but they dig in and stay focused.
This books was so much fun and it revealed more of this world and more of what was going on behind the scenes. This is just the tip of the iceberg. I have no idea how long this series is going to be, but I do know that I am her for it all. Like the first book, Stray Magic, this case is completely wrapped up at the end of the story. But along the way the team has discovered some things that changes everything. The team that they once were is no longer, but their purpose is still the same so it shifts into a new team. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
This book picks up shortly after where book 1 ends. So if you have not read that one, do it. I will try to not give any spoilers for Book 1, but I make no promises.
Shiloh and the rest of her team are being questioned after the events of the last book. In the middle of the questioning, she receives a request via astral projection from the California Para-marshal team to help find the missing werewolves that were discovered during the beginning of the Vampire case. So they are tangentially related. Giving a week of forced vacation, Shiloh and the other two members of her team left standing agree to help. But it leads them to a small town full of surprises and lies.
I don't want to go into too much detail, because I don't want to give anything way. But I will say that if you were like me and waiting for the next book, you will not be disappointed. The dynamics of the team -and character development - is still there, but it is also growing as you learn more about the team. There is so much to discover about them as an individual and as a whole team, and I found it fascinating. Even as Shiloh rediscovers Jax- I thought that ti would be annoying with a lot of back and forth, but it wasn't.
The case unravels in a pretty predictable way, until some truth bombs are discovered and then the team realizes that the stakes are much higher than anticipated, but they dig in and stay focused.
This books was so much fun and it revealed more of this world and more of what was going on behind the scenes. This is just the tip of the iceberg. I have no idea how long this series is going to be, but I do know that I am her for it all. Like the first book, Stray Magic, this case is completely wrapped up at the end of the story. But along the way the team has discovered some things that changes everything. The team that they once were is no longer, but their purpose is still the same so it shifts into a new team. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
February 15, 2019
Stray Moon is book 2 in the Strays series. This is an Urban Fantasy series with a half djinn leading lady. I enjoyed book 1 so I was happy to see this one coming out! I had a pretty good time with this installment as well and would suggest lovers of Urban Fantasy revolving around law enforcement to try this series out.
In the previous book, we learned that werewolves were going missing. This was the focus of this installment and I'm glad it tied up that loose end. While book 1 revolved around vampires this one was all about werewolves. Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison and her team are put on suspension after the events in book 1. That isn't going to stop them looking into the missing werewolves though so the gang goes to investigate. The clues take them to a nondescript town in Kansas and it quickly becomes apparent there is more than meets the eye in this case. The mysterious bad guy we had hints of throughout the novel appears and a battle goes down. Things are revealed that I didn't see coming and the ending had me wanting the next book ASAP. We definitely have more things to unravel and I just need to know what happens next.
Stray Moon is a strong sequel, perfect for Urban Fantasy lovers. I'm loving this series so far and can't wait to get my hands on the next book. I'm still a bit shocked that more djinn books aren't out there in this genre. KMeding does a great job with the lead character as well as the secondary characters. I'm hoping to get to more about her coworker Novak the incubus in the near future. I'd recommend this series if you're a fan of Urban Fantasy with several different types of paranormal beings out to solve a case.
In the previous book, we learned that werewolves were going missing. This was the focus of this installment and I'm glad it tied up that loose end. While book 1 revolved around vampires this one was all about werewolves. Para-Marshal Shiloh Harrison and her team are put on suspension after the events in book 1. That isn't going to stop them looking into the missing werewolves though so the gang goes to investigate. The clues take them to a nondescript town in Kansas and it quickly becomes apparent there is more than meets the eye in this case. The mysterious bad guy we had hints of throughout the novel appears and a battle goes down. Things are revealed that I didn't see coming and the ending had me wanting the next book ASAP. We definitely have more things to unravel and I just need to know what happens next.
Stray Moon is a strong sequel, perfect for Urban Fantasy lovers. I'm loving this series so far and can't wait to get my hands on the next book. I'm still a bit shocked that more djinn books aren't out there in this genre. KMeding does a great job with the lead character as well as the secondary characters. I'm hoping to get to more about her coworker Novak the incubus in the near future. I'd recommend this series if you're a fan of Urban Fantasy with several different types of paranormal beings out to solve a case.
June 27, 2019
4.5
This picks up right where the last book left off. Shiloh & her fellow Para-Marshals find themselves suspended following the events of Stray Magic. However, this suspension doesn't stop them from conducting a little side investigation into the disappearance of mated werewolf couples. Realising that the vampire & werewolf incidents could be connected, the Para Marshal team reluctantly accepts additional help from the wolves, Shiloh's mom, Master Vampire Tennyson and a certain double agent dhampir.
I really enjoyed Stray Moon and thought it was a step up from the first novel. Tennyson was less prominent here, but that allowed Jaxon to be fleshed out more as a character. I was also pleasantly surprised to see the return of Kathleen, since she was one of the secondary characters in Stray Magic that I wanted to learn more about. As for Shiloh, I feel she's developing into a strong protagonist especially when it comes to her leadership style and her djinn heritage. She's not all rough edges either....her relationships with Jaxon and her mother help keep her well rounded.
This picks up right where the last book left off. Shiloh & her fellow Para-Marshals find themselves suspended following the events of Stray Magic. However, this suspension doesn't stop them from conducting a little side investigation into the disappearance of mated werewolf couples. Realising that the vampire & werewolf incidents could be connected, the Para Marshal team reluctantly accepts additional help from the wolves, Shiloh's mom, Master Vampire Tennyson and a certain double agent dhampir.
I really enjoyed Stray Moon and thought it was a step up from the first novel. Tennyson was less prominent here, but that allowed Jaxon to be fleshed out more as a character. I was also pleasantly surprised to see the return of Kathleen, since she was one of the secondary characters in Stray Magic that I wanted to learn more about. As for Shiloh, I feel she's developing into a strong protagonist especially when it comes to her leadership style and her djinn heritage. She's not all rough edges either....her relationships with Jaxon and her mother help keep her well rounded.
February 9, 2019
Stray Moon is the second book in Kelly Meding's Stray series, about Para Marshall Shiloh Harrison and her team of paramarshalls who've stumbled upon a conspiracy within their organization that doesn't end when they get the bad guys. I was intrigued with the first book when I read it and when I started Stray Moon, I never thought that it could get any better than Stray Magic. Because this has an overarching plot line, you definitely need to read the first book to get fully into the story.
As Shiloh recovers from her injuries, one vital memory remains elusive, that of the person she loves the most. I can't really spill that here since this was a great climactic point in Stray Magic which also carries significance with the Stray Moon storyline. Suffice to say, the mystery keeps getting elusive and the bad guys seems to be everywhere. It's up to Shiloh and her team to push on despite the odds. After finishing the book all I want is the next one because the story just keeps getting better!
As Shiloh recovers from her injuries, one vital memory remains elusive, that of the person she loves the most. I can't really spill that here since this was a great climactic point in Stray Magic which also carries significance with the Stray Moon storyline. Suffice to say, the mystery keeps getting elusive and the bad guys seems to be everywhere. It's up to Shiloh and her team to push on despite the odds. After finishing the book all I want is the next one because the story just keeps getting better!
February 8, 2019
A Huge, Dynamite 5 Full Teacups for Stray Moon by Kelly Meding! I absolutely loved this book and not only was this a new author to me but also a new genre. The plot was so thick with intrigue and mystery, and Shiloh is truly an amazing heroine, she’s strong, independent and a dynamic fighter, vampires, werewolves, no problem, she can take em on!! I feel a lot of women will be able to relate to her!
Meding’s writing is impeccable, she writes a plot so thick and deep and twists that just come out of nowhere, she just keeps you turning the pages! Also, her character’s are so well-developed and each with such striking personalities. Truly a remarkable storyteller! I highly recommend Stray Moon, you will not be displeased!
Meding’s writing is impeccable, she writes a plot so thick and deep and twists that just come out of nowhere, she just keeps you turning the pages! Also, her character’s are so well-developed and each with such striking personalities. Truly a remarkable storyteller! I highly recommend Stray Moon, you will not be displeased!
February 26, 2019
This series (it's book 2, so as of now it counts as a series) is plenty of fun, a cop drama wrapped up in supernatural shenanigans.
It's technically an "urban fantasy," I reckon, but at its heart, it's a police adventure that happens to have werewolves in it (the first book had vampires.)
The story treats the supernatural as just another day at the office, which has been a plot point in some of my favorite things, such as Marvel's "Damage Control" comic and Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden stories.
My favorite quote: "Magic is a funny bitch."
Stray Moon is a fun time. I can't wait to read more from Kelly Meding.
It's technically an "urban fantasy," I reckon, but at its heart, it's a police adventure that happens to have werewolves in it (the first book had vampires.)
The story treats the supernatural as just another day at the office, which has been a plot point in some of my favorite things, such as Marvel's "Damage Control" comic and Jim Butcher's Harry Dresden stories.
My favorite quote: "Magic is a funny bitch."
Stray Moon is a fun time. I can't wait to read more from Kelly Meding.
November 3, 2021
While it was still a good UF I didn't like it as much as the first one mostly cause I hate amnesia storylines. Sure this wasn't technically amnesia as Shi bargained away her memories of the person she loved most in the last book for info to save the missing, but I still hate lost memories. And her reactions to poor Jaxson in the first part of the book were kind of bitchy. And I hated that ending.
February 4, 2019
The first book in this series was exciting and engaging, a great start for a new urban fantasy series.
This means I had high expectations when I started this one and it exceeded my expectations.
It's enganing, exciting and you cannot put it down.
I liked the development of the characters, the twists and turns in the plot, and the style of writing.
The world building was amazing and improved.
I look forward to reading the next instalment because I must know what comes next.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Harper Voyager Impulse and Edelweiss for this ARC
This means I had high expectations when I started this one and it exceeded my expectations.
It's enganing, exciting and you cannot put it down.
I liked the development of the characters, the twists and turns in the plot, and the style of writing.
The world building was amazing and improved.
I look forward to reading the next instalment because I must know what comes next.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Harper Voyager Impulse and Edelweiss for this ARC
March 9, 2019
Good second book. Suprising the duplicity of the government--shocked I say--shocked!
The revalations about her mom's side of the family were pretty cool. I look forward to seeing how that all unfolds. I also look forward to seeing how her and Jackson'srelationship evolves and if she gets her memory back when it concerns him or just makes up new ones. It'd be pretty cool to restart a relationship and not remember the bad stuff and get the good feelings memories, hah.Or, well, not remembering the exacts just the feelings.
The revalations about her mom's side of the family were pretty cool. I look forward to seeing how that all unfolds. I also look forward to seeing how her and Jackson'srelationship evolves and if she gets her memory back when it concerns him or just makes up new ones. It'd be pretty cool to restart a relationship and not remember the bad stuff and get the good feelings memories, hah.Or, well, not remembering the exacts just the feelings.
April 28, 2019
Ok, things are getting interesting now. It will be interesting to see who Shiloh and her team's new "employer" is - I'm guessing a goddess and maybe even that dreaded goddess that created Damien, who now wants to reign in her "child" who has gotten out of control. Who knows but I certainly want to find out and will definitely continue with the series. I also enjoyed the addition of the new "teammates" as well as the new allies. If I could have given it 4.5stars, I would have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2022
But... but... what do you mean, there's no book three (yet)? There's a lot happening in this book, and while Shiloh rekindling her kinda sorta relationship with Jaxon wasn't really what I was hoping for in the romance department, the story definitely had me hooked. Now if only there were more of this series...
April 25, 2023
While I throughly enjoyed this book & 99% was amazing I didn’t care for the ending. It was left half finished yet there is no more book after it. On the flip side the storyline was amazing and the characters well rounded. I highly recommend this book and this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2019
This second installment was better than the first. I really like this cast of characters, and the consistent pacing. I’m looking forward to the next one!
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