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Cora Roberts #1
Whispers of the Dead
White Castle is a small town with big secrets. It’s the epicentre of the paranormal community. Expect the wolves to be large and the town’s blood supply to be short.
I’m the local bed and breakfast owner who offers extras such as supernatural autopsies and burials, earning me the title of The Undertaker.
A string of murders brings the lord of the shifters and the vampire prince to my door. Together we take on the evil lurking in the shadows. But as we draw closer to the truth, they begin to unpick my secrets, which I must protect with my life. Pity they have the best senses in town.
My name is Cora Roberts, elemental badass with a secret that will rock the world.
I’m the local bed and breakfast owner who offers extras such as supernatural autopsies and burials, earning me the title of The Undertaker.
A string of murders brings the lord of the shifters and the vampire prince to my door. Together we take on the evil lurking in the shadows. But as we draw closer to the truth, they begin to unpick my secrets, which I must protect with my life. Pity they have the best senses in town.
My name is Cora Roberts, elemental badass with a secret that will rock the world.
ebook
First published May 1, 2021
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About the author
Adaline Winters
20 books671 followersAdaline Winters writes heroines who bite back and the alpha males who fall to their knees because of it. Known for weaving sizzling tension with deadly twists, she delights in leading readers through stories full of betrayal, desire, and the kind of cliffhangers that leave you cursing her name—and still begging for more. If there’s one promise she makes, it’s this: her heroines will never go quietly, and her heroes will never come out unscathed.
She lives in England’s Lake District, where the scenery is dramatic, the weather is stubbornly grey, and the dog in her house is somehow even more chaotic than her characters. Her husband and daughter are used to conversations being interrupted by sudden mutterings about plot twists or declarations like, “What if I just kill him instead?”
When she’s not plotting new ways to make her readers scream (and swoon), Adaline is probably crocheting blankets that never turn out quite square, or losing precious writing time to her daily Wordle obsession. She claims it’s brain training for crafting fiendish plot twists—but in truth, she just likes to win.
Romance novels are her first love, especially those where strong, sharp-tongued heroines drive alpha males to the brink of madness. That’s the energy she channels into every book she writes: sharp, sexy, a little ruthless, and completely addictive.
If you like your stories dangerous, your tension sizzling, and your heroes utterly undone by the women who refuse to bow… welcome to her worlds.
She lives in England’s Lake District, where the scenery is dramatic, the weather is stubbornly grey, and the dog in her house is somehow even more chaotic than her characters. Her husband and daughter are used to conversations being interrupted by sudden mutterings about plot twists or declarations like, “What if I just kill him instead?”
When she’s not plotting new ways to make her readers scream (and swoon), Adaline is probably crocheting blankets that never turn out quite square, or losing precious writing time to her daily Wordle obsession. She claims it’s brain training for crafting fiendish plot twists—but in truth, she just likes to win.
Romance novels are her first love, especially those where strong, sharp-tongued heroines drive alpha males to the brink of madness. That’s the energy she channels into every book she writes: sharp, sexy, a little ruthless, and completely addictive.
If you like your stories dangerous, your tension sizzling, and your heroes utterly undone by the women who refuse to bow… welcome to her worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
April 30, 2021
Shifters, witches, and vampires, Oh my
Whispers Of The Dead by Adaline Winters is the first book I have read from the author, and it sure as hell won't be the last. I’m highly impressed and far from disappointed. The author created a paranormal world filled with angst, toxicity, factions, and a badass heroine with a fantastic build-up.
Cora Roberts is a sassy, sarcastic witch and a badass heroine, with a best friend vampire named Sebastian; let me tell you, we all could use a Sebastian in our life. Cora has an important secret that we read in small doses throughout the book. Hudson is the Alpha shifter who has set his sights on Cora. The angst and chemistry between these two at times, I was waiting for them to kill each other or tear apart everything around them.
There is evil lurking in the shadows, killing shifters and vampires; Sebastian, Cora, and Hudson have to work together to solve who and why. Brace yourself. It's a wild ride. Everyone has secrets, and all is not revealed.
Whispers In The Dark is a great slow burn. The storytelling is fantastic, and the author has such a great imagination. The book gripped my attention, and not once was I bored. My only constructive criticism and is I would have loved to read Hudson’s POV. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Whispers Of The Dead by Adaline Winters is the first book I have read from the author, and it sure as hell won't be the last. I’m highly impressed and far from disappointed. The author created a paranormal world filled with angst, toxicity, factions, and a badass heroine with a fantastic build-up.
Cora Roberts is a sassy, sarcastic witch and a badass heroine, with a best friend vampire named Sebastian; let me tell you, we all could use a Sebastian in our life. Cora has an important secret that we read in small doses throughout the book. Hudson is the Alpha shifter who has set his sights on Cora. The angst and chemistry between these two at times, I was waiting for them to kill each other or tear apart everything around them.
There is evil lurking in the shadows, killing shifters and vampires; Sebastian, Cora, and Hudson have to work together to solve who and why. Brace yourself. It's a wild ride. Everyone has secrets, and all is not revealed.
Whispers In The Dark is a great slow burn. The storytelling is fantastic, and the author has such a great imagination. The book gripped my attention, and not once was I bored. My only constructive criticism and is I would have loved to read Hudson’s POV. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
May 8, 2024
Blatant plagiarism of author Ilona Andrews
So all throughout the first 40% of the book I kept making connections to very similar situations and characters to the Kate Daniels series. Like, very similar. I love that series, so I just told myself to try not to let it bother me, but after the 40% everything just became SO blatant that I couldn’t ignore anymore. This book is about 60 to 70% of the same scenes/situations that have happened in Ilona Andrews books. I’ll only point out the more blatant similarities, but rest assured there are SO MANY MORE.
Dangerous Dave is Jim, to a T: pack enforcer that’s a friend of the fmc, but is gruff and an hardass and always puts the pack first no matter their years of working together.
Norbert is Dr. Doolittle: The first time Norbert and Cora meet is scene for scene the first time Kate wakes up in Doolittle's hospital. Its like she just took that whole interaction, rewrote it and added her characters names and slapped it in her book. See if you can tell if this is a scene from kate daniles or cora roberts:
The main character wakes up to the shifter pack’s doctor, he has a deep southern accent and a strange fondness for Honey. She asked “how did I get here” and the MMC replies from the door, “I carried you.” The doctor reports that the MMC had multiple broken bones and burns while doing so. The FMC Calls the MMC “his Majesty”. The dr calls the FMC a “stubborn female.” (Even though in this story the FMC has given the doctor no pushback whatsoever and has literally just met him??? he has no reason to think that she’s a stubborn…. Unless he is copy pasted from another book series, perhaps????)
FMC runs a bed-and-breakfast for supernaturals that’s magical. The magic wards are a mix of the innkeeper series and Kate Daniels series mechanics: connected to the caster, chimes when someone crosses a barrier and pounding headaches when they are trying to be breached. Extremely similar descriptors.
A building falls on the FMC and MMC and puts them into compromising positions in order for them to become closer. Just like with Nevada and Rogan from another Ilona Andrews book! Also, copying mad rogans nick name of “the scourge of Mexico” and calling the MMC “the terror of Tennessee”
It goes without saying that the MMC is supposed to be Curran. But he’s a pale imitation, and is almost instantly worried about and VERY flirty with the female main character. Relationship building is happening fast, even though they “don’t like eachother” the FMC keeps doing that dumb fucking thing where she opens up far too quickly and goes “oops I said too much” here is one instance of this, she has known this man for a day:
Here’s her trying to withhold information from the MMC:
See what we are working with here?
The blatant copy of Doolittle was what really pissed me off though. I mean why copy his tiny idiosyncrasies and personality traits??? You couldn’t be at least a little original? DNF
So all throughout the first 40% of the book I kept making connections to very similar situations and characters to the Kate Daniels series. Like, very similar. I love that series, so I just told myself to try not to let it bother me, but after the 40% everything just became SO blatant that I couldn’t ignore anymore. This book is about 60 to 70% of the same scenes/situations that have happened in Ilona Andrews books. I’ll only point out the more blatant similarities, but rest assured there are SO MANY MORE.
Dangerous Dave is Jim, to a T: pack enforcer that’s a friend of the fmc, but is gruff and an hardass and always puts the pack first no matter their years of working together.
Norbert is Dr. Doolittle: The first time Norbert and Cora meet is scene for scene the first time Kate wakes up in Doolittle's hospital. Its like she just took that whole interaction, rewrote it and added her characters names and slapped it in her book. See if you can tell if this is a scene from kate daniles or cora roberts:
The main character wakes up to the shifter pack’s doctor, he has a deep southern accent and a strange fondness for Honey. She asked “how did I get here” and the MMC replies from the door, “I carried you.” The doctor reports that the MMC had multiple broken bones and burns while doing so. The FMC Calls the MMC “his Majesty”. The dr calls the FMC a “stubborn female.” (Even though in this story the FMC has given the doctor no pushback whatsoever and has literally just met him??? he has no reason to think that she’s a stubborn…. Unless he is copy pasted from another book series, perhaps????)
FMC runs a bed-and-breakfast for supernaturals that’s magical. The magic wards are a mix of the innkeeper series and Kate Daniels series mechanics: connected to the caster, chimes when someone crosses a barrier and pounding headaches when they are trying to be breached. Extremely similar descriptors.
A building falls on the FMC and MMC and puts them into compromising positions in order for them to become closer. Just like with Nevada and Rogan from another Ilona Andrews book! Also, copying mad rogans nick name of “the scourge of Mexico” and calling the MMC “the terror of Tennessee”
It goes without saying that the MMC is supposed to be Curran. But he’s a pale imitation, and is almost instantly worried about and VERY flirty with the female main character. Relationship building is happening fast, even though they “don’t like eachother” the FMC keeps doing that dumb fucking thing where she opens up far too quickly and goes “oops I said too much” here is one instance of this, she has known this man for a day:
“When you’ve already lived your worst nightmare and survived, nothing much fazes you.” If I could move, I would slap myself. Too much information, Cora.”
Here’s her trying to withhold information from the MMC:
“He wants me to invite him into my home next time he comes knocking.” Oops, please don’t pick up on those two words. “Next time?” Damn it.
See what we are working with here?
The blatant copy of Doolittle was what really pissed me off though. I mean why copy his tiny idiosyncrasies and personality traits??? You couldn’t be at least a little original? DNF
October 29, 2023
Some spoilers ahead, possibly.
Ok, so I'm only about half way through this book, but I had to mention this, because not many reviewers have...
While I'm enjoying reading this book, I can't help but notice aaaaall of the stolen/borrowed/imitated details from several of Ilona Andrews' books.
First, the leading lady with her secret powers and (possibly?) strange parentage. Hello, Kate Daniels. (And also, a bit of Hidden Legacy/Nevada Baylor.)
Then, a house/hotel that caters to supernaturals, and that has a special guest living in it full-time, aaaand is a B&B with wards. Hello, Innkeeper Chronicles.
Next, a shifter male lead that gets called a cat/kitten. Hello, Kate Daniels, again, with her "Here, kitty, kitty" -line when meeting her future husband for the first time (aka the other biggest and baddest shifter kitten in the land).
Not to mention, a scene where a building collapses on top of the two main characters and they have to get too-close-for-comfort under the rubble. HELLOOOO, Nevada Baylor and Connor Rogan.
Also, even Rogan's ominous nickname (the Scourge of Mexico/the Butcher of Merida) is imitated with "the Terror of Tennessee", aka the nickname for the leading man, Hudson Abbot.
Oh, and there's a shifter doctor that so far seems a lot like Dr. George Doolittle... again, in Kate Daniels.
It's still a good read with a few original ideas... But is it mostly good because of Ilona Andrews' ideas or on its own merits? I shall see once I finish reading it.
Ok, so I'm only about half way through this book, but I had to mention this, because not many reviewers have...
While I'm enjoying reading this book, I can't help but notice aaaaall of the stolen/borrowed/imitated details from several of Ilona Andrews' books.
First, the leading lady with her secret powers and (possibly?) strange parentage. Hello, Kate Daniels. (And also, a bit of Hidden Legacy/Nevada Baylor.)
Then, a house/hotel that caters to supernaturals, and that has a special guest living in it full-time, aaaand is a B&B with wards. Hello, Innkeeper Chronicles.
Next, a shifter male lead that gets called a cat/kitten. Hello, Kate Daniels, again, with her "Here, kitty, kitty" -line when meeting her future husband for the first time (aka the other biggest and baddest shifter kitten in the land).
Not to mention, a scene where a building collapses on top of the two main characters and they have to get too-close-for-comfort under the rubble. HELLOOOO, Nevada Baylor and Connor Rogan.
Also, even Rogan's ominous nickname (the Scourge of Mexico/the Butcher of Merida) is imitated with "the Terror of Tennessee", aka the nickname for the leading man, Hudson Abbot.
Oh, and there's a shifter doctor that so far seems a lot like Dr. George Doolittle... again, in Kate Daniels.
It's still a good read with a few original ideas... But is it mostly good because of Ilona Andrews' ideas or on its own merits? I shall see once I finish reading it.
March 9, 2023
What a hidden gem!
Good urban fantasy that I haven't read yet is like gold dust and I am so pleased to have discovered this series.
There is absolutely nothing I didn't like about it. And there are two more books!
Good urban fantasy that I haven't read yet is like gold dust and I am so pleased to have discovered this series.
There is absolutely nothing I didn't like about it. And there are two more books!
March 18, 2024
This was actually a lot of fun! It’s classic urban fantasy with a yummy dose of potential romance added in for good measure. It’s nothing out of the ordinary as far as storyline but the characters keep it engaging. Cora, the FMC, is a good combination of kick-butt strength and soft-heart. Hudson, the potential MMC, is the epitome of Alpha (both good and bad) and perfect foil for Cora. Then there is the loyal side-kick, Sebastian, who I hope gets some great plot lines in the future, ‘cause he is all sorts of intriguing as well.
SO… off to dive into the next installment - with glee. :)
SO… off to dive into the next installment - with glee. :)
October 4, 2023
Plagiarism imo of Ilona Andrews series. Takes the most random elements and directly uses them in this book (Rogans title cuz he’s so powerful, powerful mind cracker grandma issues, cat shifter MMC from Kate Daniels, mating ritual from Kate Daniels, owns and inn)
May 27, 2024
This was an awesome urban fantasy. Our heroine is very powerful but needs to hide her true form, which we have no idea what it is. We meet our hero right on the first page, which is very exciting, but there's little to no romance in this first installment. It was very well done in a way that makes me itchy to grab the next book and see if romance will follow. The cliffhanger is small, but it is still there.
May 2, 2021
Cora and Hudson OMG these two together are fire!! This was my first read by Adaline Winters and I can tell you right now she has gained a fan for life and I will be reading every story she creates! She has the amazing way with words and world building! I was completely engrossed in the story and with these characters. Then you have Hudson and Sebastian two hot AF alphas and just the way each of them interacts with Cora *swoon*!!! They is plenty that goes on with Cora and all her crazy happenings from fur balls, and friendly ghosts to over protective shifter and Vampire Prince!! This was an absolute must read!!!
October 21, 2023
The book had the potential to bring the plot to magnificent fruition, but the dialogue and shortcuts cut it down to only 3 stars.
FL/ CORA :- Elemental with power of water. She sees and talks to the dead, among other very powerful things, such as being a retro. Mother dead by self harm and father unknown. Cora grew up with her aunts and is now best friends with the vampire Prince Sebastien.
ML/ HUDSON :- Head of the North American shifters or Principal as they call him. He is a Sabre-tooth tiger shifter.
REVIEW:
Cora is a retro and can see moments before someone's death and their actual death. When bodies from two factions— vampire and shifters start turning up, Cora is asked to help and becomes involved. Soon, she realizes it's her attention the murderer wants...
So, the first quarter was breezy. We got to know the world (which was surface level at best) and the characters (better and rounded). The overarching plotline itself was good and engaging, but there were interactions that didn't seem real, but were a means to somehow connect subplots. Hence, shortcuts.
Though Cora often times talks about herself as if she is more powerful than others, I see her falling into easy traps and being NOT as powerful as she often implies. Which also might be because she is not in her "true form". But the contrast cannot be helped but made, especially when she pushes Hudson away from her with grand statements as these.
All in all, the book could have been better and more coherent with its sub-plots, while also delving deeper into secrets and the world, which would have made me—a reader, emotionally connect.
FL/ CORA :- Elemental with power of water. She sees and talks to the dead, among other very powerful things, such as being a retro. Mother dead by self harm and father unknown. Cora grew up with her aunts and is now best friends with the vampire Prince Sebastien.
ML/ HUDSON :- Head of the North American shifters or Principal as they call him. He is a Sabre-tooth tiger shifter.
REVIEW:
Cora is a retro and can see moments before someone's death and their actual death. When bodies from two factions— vampire and shifters start turning up, Cora is asked to help and becomes involved. Soon, she realizes it's her attention the murderer wants...
So, the first quarter was breezy. We got to know the world (which was surface level at best) and the characters (better and rounded). The overarching plotline itself was good and engaging, but there were interactions that didn't seem real, but were a means to somehow connect subplots. Hence, shortcuts.
Though Cora often times talks about herself as if she is more powerful than others, I see her falling into easy traps and being NOT as powerful as she often implies. Which also might be because she is not in her "true form". But the contrast cannot be helped but made, especially when she pushes Hudson away from her with grand statements as these.
All in all, the book could have been better and more coherent with its sub-plots, while also delving deeper into secrets and the world, which would have made me—a reader, emotionally connect.
June 12, 2023
Not bad
November 12, 2023
I was bored.
Too many cliches and too much contrivance led to too much that didn't fit right or even make sense.
Too many cliches and too much contrivance led to too much that didn't fit right or even make sense.
May 4, 2021
Adaline Winters has become one of my favorite paranormal authors. She creates such unique worlds and characters and Whispers of The Dead definitely was a grabber that brought you into the story as if you were there in person.
Cora, our female lead character who is not only intelligent but sassy and strong. (Which thank you to Adaline for writing such strong female MC) but our main male characters, Sebastian, Dave, and Hudson are dreamboats in themselves. Especially Hudson. I mean that man could insult me and I would say thank you.
The story itself was captivating and held my attention the entire novel. With the idea of an evil twisted entity at the works along with the modern world the story is set in. I fell head over heels with this novel. I loved the mystery aspect as well and the fact at the end I was left wanting more.
The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I couldn’t do 4.5 here on goodreads. The reason for my 4.5 is because I wanted more of a drawn out fight between Cora and the main villain (won’t reveal so no spoilers) but other than that I adored this story. I adored the characters, the plot line, the world building, everything. Well done Adaline, you’ve done it again with capturing my love for your novels.
Cora, our female lead character who is not only intelligent but sassy and strong. (Which thank you to Adaline for writing such strong female MC) but our main male characters, Sebastian, Dave, and Hudson are dreamboats in themselves. Especially Hudson. I mean that man could insult me and I would say thank you.
The story itself was captivating and held my attention the entire novel. With the idea of an evil twisted entity at the works along with the modern world the story is set in. I fell head over heels with this novel. I loved the mystery aspect as well and the fact at the end I was left wanting more.
The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I couldn’t do 4.5 here on goodreads. The reason for my 4.5 is because I wanted more of a drawn out fight between Cora and the main villain (won’t reveal so no spoilers) but other than that I adored this story. I adored the characters, the plot line, the world building, everything. Well done Adaline, you’ve done it again with capturing my love for your novels.
June 17, 2024
3.5☆ - 4☆
I see several major similarities between this book and two of IA's books i.e. the hidden and powerful father, the alpha mc, and the bed and breakfast inn. I've also read a few complaints about these similarities. TBH, I don't mind that some inspiration was taken from those two series. I buy books to enjoy reading them, and this one did the job. I'm happy too, considering that the last few books weren't able to hold my attention. So, I don't mind that there was some copying, and if the OG author doesn't mind, then that's good enough for me. It's kind of like how I enjoy the same tropes (e.g. enemies to lovers, found family, fmc discovers her lineage or hidden abilities) - authors can write and rewrite similar scenes, and I'll love them every time.
I see several major similarities between this book and two of IA's books i.e. the hidden and powerful father, the alpha mc, and the bed and breakfast inn. I've also read a few complaints about these similarities. TBH, I don't mind that some inspiration was taken from those two series. I buy books to enjoy reading them, and this one did the job. I'm happy too, considering that the last few books weren't able to hold my attention. So, I don't mind that there was some copying, and if the OG author doesn't mind, then that's good enough for me. It's kind of like how I enjoy the same tropes (e.g. enemies to lovers, found family, fmc discovers her lineage or hidden abilities) - authors can write and rewrite similar scenes, and I'll love them every time.
March 2, 2024
This was a really fun start to a new series, with a new-to-me author. Really great FMC with a backstory just starting to unfold, and it's super interesting. Cora is smart, loyal, compassionate, and she has a spine of shiny steel, refusing to cower in front of the big egos of the supernatural community, even though she has to hide most of her power.
I assume Hudson (shifter) is the MMC, though I also really like Sebastian, her vampire best friend. He has the annoying "I'm the boss shifter of North America and you peasants will bow before me" attitude that Curran did in the first two Kate Daniels books. I'm hopeful that he'll grow on me, like Curran did. Right now, I like him 50% of the time, and I want to punch him in the junk the other 50% of the time, which makes for an interesting read.
On to book 2!
I assume Hudson (shifter) is the MMC, though I also really like Sebastian, her vampire best friend. He has the annoying "I'm the boss shifter of North America and you peasants will bow before me" attitude that Curran did in the first two Kate Daniels books. I'm hopeful that he'll grow on me, like Curran did. Right now, I like him 50% of the time, and I want to punch him in the junk the other 50% of the time, which makes for an interesting read.
On to book 2!
May 18, 2024
05/18/24 Review
Audible. The narrator was good. She brought in the sass and the wit this book's PACKED with. I can't believe how much I forgot about the book or missed. I blame it on waiting for Hudson to rip her apart with his manly alpha hands and just hold her down and show her who's da- sorry. It's a good book, read or listen, it's a fucking good PNR story with so much more to answer to. I can't wait!
05/01/21 Review
This book is just fucking awesome. So many goddamn characters, which is a trait of this author. She fills her stories with so many characters that at first glance you're drowning but holy hell, every one of them brought something to the table. The story just flows and holds you at every turn.
This world, that she created, is filled with so much information you start wondering if this shit is real and we just don't fucking know! You have several twists, some good bone breaking scenes, blood, a hot slow burn that was forgiven due to the amount of blood and alpha hotness.
Hudson is such a fucking alpha, goddammit. He's a beast, like literally and just so delicious. The climax of the book was intense, did I want more blood? YES. Did I want more broken bones? YES. I wanted them all to fucking bleed and let me lick it of. It's def a tamer kind of story compared to her addictive Hope series, but I just have a feeling that Cora has not shown us all she can do and when she does, I fucking hope it rains blood and gore and sex, a lot of fucking sex! Where's the suggestion box? I want it filthy, Hudson sounds like a filthy fucker.
Audible. The narrator was good. She brought in the sass and the wit this book's PACKED with. I can't believe how much I forgot about the book or missed. I blame it on waiting for Hudson to rip her apart with his manly alpha hands and just hold her down and show her who's da- sorry. It's a good book, read or listen, it's a fucking good PNR story with so much more to answer to. I can't wait!
05/01/21 Review
This book is just fucking awesome. So many goddamn characters, which is a trait of this author. She fills her stories with so many characters that at first glance you're drowning but holy hell, every one of them brought something to the table. The story just flows and holds you at every turn.
This world, that she created, is filled with so much information you start wondering if this shit is real and we just don't fucking know! You have several twists, some good bone breaking scenes, blood, a hot slow burn that was forgiven due to the amount of blood and alpha hotness.
Hudson is such a fucking alpha, goddammit. He's a beast, like literally and just so delicious. The climax of the book was intense, did I want more blood? YES. Did I want more broken bones? YES. I wanted them all to fucking bleed and let me lick it of. It's def a tamer kind of story compared to her addictive Hope series, but I just have a feeling that Cora has not shown us all she can do and when she does, I fucking hope it rains blood and gore and sex, a lot of fucking sex! Where's the suggestion box? I want it filthy, Hudson sounds like a filthy fucker.
July 1, 2022
One thing that Adaline Winters does best is slow-burn romance. I'm telling you now, you better read this asap because you're missing out!
I read Whispers of the Dead in one sitting. I could not get enough of Cora, Sebastian, Rebecca, Maggie and Hudson. Hudson, my beautiful, charming, sexy shifter. Meet my newest book boyfriend.
Whispers of the Dead is an addictive new series starter. It's hilarious, swoony and at times dark with the right amount of mystery, gore and action. There's still so much of this world left to uncover. Still so many unknowns especially regarding Cora's past and abilities. And I want to know more about the elementals, vampires and shifters and the tenuous relationships among them. I feel like we barely scratched the surface. And is it just me or does the Order seem like a scary bunch? And omg, that ending?! I see some sexy times in the future. (Or at least I'm hoping for some. LOL)
Ngl, I just finished this and I already want to read it again!
I read Whispers of the Dead in one sitting. I could not get enough of Cora, Sebastian, Rebecca, Maggie and Hudson. Hudson, my beautiful, charming, sexy shifter. Meet my newest book boyfriend.
Whispers of the Dead is an addictive new series starter. It's hilarious, swoony and at times dark with the right amount of mystery, gore and action. There's still so much of this world left to uncover. Still so many unknowns especially regarding Cora's past and abilities. And I want to know more about the elementals, vampires and shifters and the tenuous relationships among them. I feel like we barely scratched the surface. And is it just me or does the Order seem like a scary bunch? And omg, that ending?! I see some sexy times in the future. (Or at least I'm hoping for some. LOL)
Ngl, I just finished this and I already want to read it again!
March 6, 2023
“Piss a man off and expect retribution, piss a woman off and expect a reckoning.”
This is such a fun read, and I devoured it in one sitting. If you have read and liked Ilona Andrew’s Kate Daniels, you will fall in love with Adaline Winter’s Cora Roberts. This book has a similar feel but with a snarkier FMC who wields magic, has a medical degree, and can speak to and see the dead (among many other talents, mostly hidden). I loved the mysterious stalker, her vampire best friend, and the shifter who has become quite obsessed with her. Plus, there is political intrigue, deep family secrets, and traumatic pasts we get to explore.
Perhaps I have read too many why choose books, but I can’t help but ship her with several men she encounters. This book is slow-burn, with no true contender winning her hand. There is potential for some increasing steam in later books.
I loved reading this first book in the series and cannot wait to see what else is in store.
This is such a fun read, and I devoured it in one sitting. If you have read and liked Ilona Andrew’s Kate Daniels, you will fall in love with Adaline Winter’s Cora Roberts. This book has a similar feel but with a snarkier FMC who wields magic, has a medical degree, and can speak to and see the dead (among many other talents, mostly hidden). I loved the mysterious stalker, her vampire best friend, and the shifter who has become quite obsessed with her. Plus, there is political intrigue, deep family secrets, and traumatic pasts we get to explore.
Perhaps I have read too many why choose books, but I can’t help but ship her with several men she encounters. This book is slow-burn, with no true contender winning her hand. There is potential for some increasing steam in later books.
I loved reading this first book in the series and cannot wait to see what else is in store.
November 18, 2024
I'm rating this a 4 more for the character dialogue and chemistry than for the actual storyline :)
This urban fantasy is made up of vampires, shifters, witches, and elementalists'. Elementalists' are feared/disliked because their powers are unique to the individual and there is no range of what they might be able to do.
In this first book our MFC is roped into investigating the mysterious murders of some shifters and vampires. One of her abilities is that she can see the last moments of death. This is a closely guarded secret because if people knew, her powers would be coveted. However, that is only the beginning of her secrets regarding her power. She has to walk a fine line to keep her secrets hidden from the shifter principal who has glued himself to her side for the duration.
This urban fantasy is made up of vampires, shifters, witches, and elementalists'. Elementalists' are feared/disliked because their powers are unique to the individual and there is no range of what they might be able to do.
In this first book our MFC is roped into investigating the mysterious murders of some shifters and vampires. One of her abilities is that she can see the last moments of death. This is a closely guarded secret because if people knew, her powers would be coveted. However, that is only the beginning of her secrets regarding her power. She has to walk a fine line to keep her secrets hidden from the shifter principal who has glued himself to her side for the duration.
February 8, 2024
I was in a bit of a book slump and this little fast paced beauty snapped me right out my funk.
Unique world building - without the smother factor. A kick butt capable heroine with tons of secrets. An alpha shifter who wants to be her protector. A best friend vampire with secrets of his own.
There's action, the stakes are high, and the romance factor is approaching boiling point - although they continue to circle each other and deny, deny, deny as we head into book 2.
This was nothing but fun with a side order of sizzle - diving straight into book 2.
Unique world building - without the smother factor. A kick butt capable heroine with tons of secrets. An alpha shifter who wants to be her protector. A best friend vampire with secrets of his own.
There's action, the stakes are high, and the romance factor is approaching boiling point - although they continue to circle each other and deny, deny, deny as we head into book 2.
This was nothing but fun with a side order of sizzle - diving straight into book 2.
September 29, 2023
I like this book. Cora is a great FMC and the other characters are well written.
The story line is not really unique but it’s hard to find an original fantasy book in 2023.
I would recommand this book if you’re relaxed and looking for a book with an independant FMC, some action and a nice romance (expected but well written).
Sadly, I was not in that state of mind. The romance was too simple for me. I’m going to come back to this series when I’m less stressed out.
The story line is not really unique but it’s hard to find an original fantasy book in 2023.
I would recommand this book if you’re relaxed and looking for a book with an independant FMC, some action and a nice romance (expected but well written).
Sadly, I was not in that state of mind. The romance was too simple for me. I’m going to come back to this series when I’m less stressed out.
October 16, 2023
This was a pretty solid Urban Romance read. Lots of quirky characters (Shifters, Vampires, Witches, Unknowns...), murder mystery and some nice tension between Cora and Hudson. I'm interested enough in the FMC to continue on. I want to know her secrets and powers that she hasn't revealed yet. Cora is a likeable FMC, which for me means she's a badass, but with faults and not too over the top. Fun read, looking forward to more.
November 5, 2023
This novel reminded me a lot of Ilona Andrews' books, not one but several of them. Too bad Ms. Winters resorted to "borrow" material from this beloved author of mine. Book 2 is a no to me, I don't want to support any form of plagiarism.
June 1, 2024
Spoilers ahead
Cora Roberts, local b&b owner, doctor and elemental witch. Cora can speak to the dead and also relive their last moments. When someone starts killing shifters and then vampires Cora is called on to assist the Principal and her longtime friend the Prince of Vampires
*****
Ngl this would kick ass as a RH, not sure if thats the direction that it's heading because Sebastian and Cora seem to have more of a friendship going than a romance
Nice action, more dialogue heavy thankfully no long internal monologue
Cora's my kinda h, being in her head is funny as hell. Interesting take on the paranormal aspect of stuff and I can't wait to see what else Cora can do
Hudson is the Principal, the leader of all shifters. He's interested in Cora but she had a horrific experience at the hands of her ex so she's mostly resisting for now
No real romance as yet but it's definitely there
The writing style threw me off at times but all in all a pretty good read
Cora Roberts, local b&b owner, doctor and elemental witch. Cora can speak to the dead and also relive their last moments. When someone starts killing shifters and then vampires Cora is called on to assist the Principal and her longtime friend the Prince of Vampires
*****
Ngl this would kick ass as a RH, not sure if thats the direction that it's heading because Sebastian and Cora seem to have more of a friendship going than a romance
Nice action, more dialogue heavy thankfully no long internal monologue
Cora's my kinda h, being in her head is funny as hell. Interesting take on the paranormal aspect of stuff and I can't wait to see what else Cora can do
Hudson is the Principal, the leader of all shifters. He's interested in Cora but she had a horrific experience at the hands of her ex so she's mostly resisting for now
No real romance as yet but it's definitely there
The writing style threw me off at times but all in all a pretty good read
July 3, 2024
Falling for guys who belittle and demean you
What is it with women who get all hot for guys that talk down, belittle, demean, and generally emotionally abuse them? The cat not only verbally and emotionally abuses, but he tries to crush her spirit with his 'alpha waves'. Even after the previous horrors of her life, she still rolls over and shows him her belly. Ugh! Can't Someone Please write a female character who doesn't grovel to the vagraties of misfiring hormones? How about a little emotional and intellectual intelligence on both sides? Both shifters in this tale are self-centered, entitled, and willing to use Cora until she is wrung out and nothing but a dried out, dessicated dead husk simply because she is useful and not pack, so who cares what happens to her and her family as Dave makes quite clear when she asks for his help after everything she has suffered for him and his precious pack. I haven't read this genre for a while, only coming back to it to search for possible new, intelligent life. Nope. Two stars for Cora's unusual talent and for her best friend. And I don't even like parasites ... but he is a good one.
What is it with women who get all hot for guys that talk down, belittle, demean, and generally emotionally abuse them? The cat not only verbally and emotionally abuses, but he tries to crush her spirit with his 'alpha waves'. Even after the previous horrors of her life, she still rolls over and shows him her belly. Ugh! Can't Someone Please write a female character who doesn't grovel to the vagraties of misfiring hormones? How about a little emotional and intellectual intelligence on both sides? Both shifters in this tale are self-centered, entitled, and willing to use Cora until she is wrung out and nothing but a dried out, dessicated dead husk simply because she is useful and not pack, so who cares what happens to her and her family as Dave makes quite clear when she asks for his help after everything she has suffered for him and his precious pack. I haven't read this genre for a while, only coming back to it to search for possible new, intelligent life. Nope. Two stars for Cora's unusual talent and for her best friend. And I don't even like parasites ... but he is a good one.
January 21, 2024
Overall a fairly enjoyable read, but it did bother me a bit how often I thought of Ilona Andrews as I was reading this. There was just enough similarities that it can’t be a coincidence, and it seemed to take primarily from the Kate Daniels series, but also a little from the Innkeeper Chronicles and Hidden Legacy. I did like the cast of characters in the book (maybe because I love the Ilona Andrew’s characters so much?), although I found the constant martyr complex of the heroine annoying at times.
And the super secret heritage that no one can know of, not even the reader of this book, is a plot point that has gotten old - I mean, you can tell us readers the secret, I promise we won’t tell any of the characters - I’ve noticed this trend in a couple books lately and it’s annoying. Don’t wait several books to tell me the secret because I may not care enough by then to keep reading. 3 stars.
And the super secret heritage that no one can know of, not even the reader of this book, is a plot point that has gotten old - I mean, you can tell us readers the secret, I promise we won’t tell any of the characters - I’ve noticed this trend in a couple books lately and it’s annoying. Don’t wait several books to tell me the secret because I may not care enough by then to keep reading. 3 stars.
August 23, 2022
This was a really fun witchy read. I absolutely loved how dialogue heavy it was. The H is such a bulldozer, I can’t wait to see what he does next. I’m a sucker for any type of psychic magic and the magic in this one was super fun and I can’t wait to see what else the h can do.
July 14, 2024
My Thoughts:
Reading this book is very strongly reminiscent of the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. However, Jim is now Dave and Dr. Dolittle is now Norbert. Kate aka Dina aka Cora now have an inn. Gertrude Hunt is now Summer Grove House. Except this time Summer Grove House is not sentient anymore, just warded. The BDH (book-devouring horde) will get what I'm saying here. As if that is not enough, Stefan in the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs is now Sebastian. Same vampire bond. Slightly different characteristics of the bond. So, similarities. Plenty of them. So...?? The more the merrier!! Let them all come!! Tides us over until the next Kate Daniels and/or Mercy Thompson series book(s) comes out! Staves off the post-good-book-read depression!
I like the fact that the plot has a slight twist to it. Urban fantasies are not known for plot twists!
This is my first Nicol Zanzarella audiobook and I am fast becoming a fan!
Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 5
Story itself = 5
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4.5
World building = 5
Cover art = 4
Pace = (6 hrs and 57 mins listening time)
Plot = 4
Narration = 5
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 5
Story itself = 5
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4.5
World building = 5
Cover art = 4
Pace = (6 hrs and 57 mins listening time)
Plot = 4
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5
January 19, 2023
“I respect the hell out of Belle, she’s the only princess to save her prince from a fate worse than death. She was no shrinking wallflower with a damsel in distress vibe that even as a ten year old pissed me off.”- Belle is the best Disney Princess, this quote alone is enough to make me love Adaline and Cora!!
I LOVE Adaline Winters and I’ve decided to go back through and reread her books (and become more active on Goodreads!).
Cora Roberts is me personified! If you love a badass FMC who doesn’t take shit from anyone. Who loves and protects those she claims as hers and an independent woman who doesn’t need a man, you will LOVE Cora Roberts because she’s all of that and more!
This book has all our favorites in one! Shifters, Vampires, Elementals, Ghosts you name it and this book probably has it!
This book was so much more than I expected! From the plot absolutely dragging me in, to the mystery that is Cora that keeps me guessing the whole time! To Hudson going from a big bad wolf to a cute little poodle, and from the nice game of cat and mouse that the two of them are playing.
I can’t wait to reread book 2!
If you haven’t read any Adaline yet, I suggest you jump on it!!
I LOVE Adaline Winters and I’ve decided to go back through and reread her books (and become more active on Goodreads!).
Cora Roberts is me personified! If you love a badass FMC who doesn’t take shit from anyone. Who loves and protects those she claims as hers and an independent woman who doesn’t need a man, you will LOVE Cora Roberts because she’s all of that and more!
This book has all our favorites in one! Shifters, Vampires, Elementals, Ghosts you name it and this book probably has it!
This book was so much more than I expected! From the plot absolutely dragging me in, to the mystery that is Cora that keeps me guessing the whole time! To Hudson going from a big bad wolf to a cute little poodle, and from the nice game of cat and mouse that the two of them are playing.
I can’t wait to reread book 2!
If you haven’t read any Adaline yet, I suggest you jump on it!!
April 14, 2025
Such a brilliant find
I came across this by accident and saw it was an English author who was also an ex criminal analyst and thought I’d give it a go and hopefully there would be no slang or jumping into bed at the first hotty.
The author didn’t let me down even though surprisingly the story is set in Louisiana but is not American in the writing style at all 😊
The word building is so good that some of the characters could give you nightmares. There are lol moments too and a lot of sexual tension.
I love Cora, Hudson and Sebastian but also the other characters and Belle the cat 🐱
This has such a good plot and I’m dying to find out the secrets Cora is hiding. Definitely a worthy read.
I came across this by accident and saw it was an English author who was also an ex criminal analyst and thought I’d give it a go and hopefully there would be no slang or jumping into bed at the first hotty.
The author didn’t let me down even though surprisingly the story is set in Louisiana but is not American in the writing style at all 😊
The word building is so good that some of the characters could give you nightmares. There are lol moments too and a lot of sexual tension.
I love Cora, Hudson and Sebastian but also the other characters and Belle the cat 🐱
This has such a good plot and I’m dying to find out the secrets Cora is hiding. Definitely a worthy read.
June 17, 2025
What a superb start to a series!
This is the first book I have read of this author and it did not dissapoint! 😁
Normally I am jot a huge fan of slow burn, but this book had so much more to offer that I found myself enjoying the slow tuggawar going on. I'm am all in!
What is Hudson hiding? What is Cora hiding?
And what is she so afraid of... I find myself loving the mysteries and I enjoyed the open ended end, it's not a cliffy but rather the end to a chapter and on we go to the next. I loved it! I'm so glad I got recommended this book. ❤️
This is the first book I have read of this author and it did not dissapoint! 😁
Normally I am jot a huge fan of slow burn, but this book had so much more to offer that I found myself enjoying the slow tuggawar going on. I'm am all in!
What is Hudson hiding? What is Cora hiding?
And what is she so afraid of... I find myself loving the mysteries and I enjoyed the open ended end, it's not a cliffy but rather the end to a chapter and on we go to the next. I loved it! I'm so glad I got recommended this book. ❤️
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