The devil you know is never the one you should trust.Special Agent Patrick Collins is dispatched to Chicago, chasing a lead on the Morrígan’s staff for the joint task force. Needing a cover for his presence in the Windy City, Patrick is ordered to investigate a politician running for mayor. In the lead up to election day, not everything is what it seems in a city where playing to win means … to win means appeasing the gods first and the electorate second.
But Chicago brings its own set of problems outside the case: a stand-offish local god pack, a missing immortal, and Patrick’s twin sister. Fighting Hannah and the Dominion Sect provides Patrick with a sinister reminder that some blood ties can never be cut.
Left behind in New York City, Jonothon de Vere finds himself targeted by hunters who will go through anyone to kill him—including the packs under his protection. With a bounty on his head, Jono is forced to make a choice that Patrick would never approve of. Doing so risks breaking the trust he’s built with the man he loves, but not acting will give the rival New York City god pack leverage Jono can’t afford to give up.
When Patrick and Jono reunite in Chicago, Patrick must confront the fraying of a relationship he’s come to rely on for his own sanity. But fixing their personal problems will have to wait—because Niflheim is clawing at the shores of Lake Michigan and the dead are hungry.
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Gosh, I love Soulbond series so much! Every book rediscovers long forgotten deities, introduces new characters and is such a roller coaster. I love how Ms Turner cleverly combines mythology and modern times showcasing Gods in new light, how she creates such quirky relatable characters and weaves fast paced engrossing stories. This time around Norse mythology was at the forefront combined with magical beings and god pack rivalries. I practically inhaled it. There were some things that I finally figured out in regards to Patrick’s soul debt and what it entailed. Wow, I can’t wait to read how the author untangles that!
This time Patrick combines his magic abilities with that of investigator to tackle several cases having single connection that of the Morrigan’s staff. I like how Ms Turner throws a hint here, then another there and slowly builds up to the intense finale that is always full of struggle, overwhelming emotions and deathly fighting. All those Gods are running amok like naughty children, and in the epicenter is Patrick who despite being a mortal finds a way to live another day.
I loved Jono and Patrick’s relationship woes, Wade’s shenanigans and Jono being the god pack alpha he was meant to be. He is such a good and fair leader. I can’t wait to see Estelle get her a$$ handed to her by Jono. The intricacies of paranormal politics, the magic and the sheer amount of Gods living in the modern world were beautifully written. Wouldn’t that be something if that were true? Anyway, another amazing chapter in Patrick and Jono’s quest to stay alive and be happy. I enjoyed it so much. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
5 Stars!
For maximum enjoyment, I really suggest reading this series from the start, while Hailey is really good about providing background info about what happened in the previous books, you’ll be missing out if you don’t read them all.
In the interest of not spoiling the story for anyone, I’m just gonna share a few of my impressions of the book:
1. Who knew stupid was catching? *sighs wearily and slaps Jono upside his head*
2. Wade gets more adorable and overall awesome with every installment. I love him so much. He’s hilarious and I adore his snack/hot dog/motorcycle-loving ways.
3. The Chicago god pack is amazing. I hope this is not the last we’ve seen of them.
4. I really, really hope Estelle and Youssef and Ethan, but especially Estelle and Ethan, get their comeuppance soon.
This series is one of my top favorites ever and each new book just gets better and better. Jono and Patrick keep getting closer and their relationship, aside from Jono’s bout of stupid at the start of this book, keeps progressing nicely. I love that while they have this intense chemistry and they’re oh so very hot together, the book doesn’t really center on them having sex, but on the main storyline. Still, I live for those small touches between them, for their connection that transcends just the physical.
The book was fast-paced, fun, entertaining, with lots of explosive action and a fantastic plot with varied and intriguing characters and a strong core cast that I love catching up with in every installment. I can’t wait for more!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, but I read through KU, a review wasn’t a requirement. ***
This is yet another action packed installment in The Soulbond series. The characters are strong and fierce individuals, but retain their softer sides for pack and love. The writing flows nicely and continues the overall story arc of the series. This should not be read as a standalone.
At first, circumstances force Patrick and Jono to be separated by half a continent. Patrick is on a case in Chicago for the SOA, and Jono has remained in New York to strengthen borders and alliances for his and Patrick’s God Pack. Unfortunately, the rival God Pack has made a deal with demon assassins who interfere with pack business. Due to this, a necessary, but not happy, alliance is formed.
Due to the distance between the two, Patrick is not able to draw through the soulbond. The case becomes complicated very quickly, and personal. So personal, that Patrick asks Jono to come to Chicago.
It seems like gods are coming out of the woodwork at every turn in this book. One god in particular is a target, and hell itself is coming for him. From reactionary storms over Lake Michigan, to Zeus’ bar being attacked with hellfire, the action rarely lets up. Valkyries and their “motorcycles” come to aid in the battle against hellhounds and Hades.
We see more of Fenrir in this book, and Wade gets some page time, too. Feelings are hurt and trust is damaged, but not broken, between our Jono and Patrick. On top of that, Patrick learns a bond he thought severed years ago still has a tenuous connection. Ethan is still on his mission to become a god, and he is willing to do anything, including to his daughter and Patrick’s twin, to get what he wants.
A war is coming, and it is coming soon. New alliances have been made, and their God Pack grows continuously, but there is still more to do. There is also still that little matter of the Hunters… Overall, an exciting read and I look forward to seeing what happens next.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review. *
This is the 4th book in one of my all time favourite series. It just keeps getting better and better!!
This is more action centric but I loved every second. We meet a whole bunch of new characters and of course our favourites from the previous books. This book is found family at its best.
Patrick and Jono’s relationship keeps getting stronger. It’s written so well, the plot and the characters are absolutely amazing. I love the magic and the gods and the whole paranormal world. I’m also a huge fan of mythology and this book has it all.
Wade!!!!!! He’s too precious! He’s still eating constantly and I totally adore him!(He is a growing dragon) He’s my favourite character!!!
Absolutely stunning addition to a fantastic series! If you’re a fan, what are you waiting for? And if you just came across this, I highly recommend this series. I mean look at those gorgeous covers! I would buy it just for that!!
*ARC provided by the author via A Novel Take PR in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Pack
Will someone (ahem) intervene and let Patrick have his vacation? I think he definitely deserves it after this adventure. All I can say is when it snows, it blizzards in this series. “We’re in this together, and I’m always going to trust you.” Patrick and Jono make the very best team. Though I was a bit angry with Jono in this one, stubborn wolf, I can’t picture one without the other. I am so in love with them and they’re my all-time favorite couple.
“What if I eat them?” Oh Wade how I adore you, your insatiable appetite, your hoarding and your Wade-isms. I vote for him getting his own motorcycle and his food humor never fails to make me laugh. This series including this book is amazing, phenomenal, extraordinary and I can’t get enough of it. Each time I start reading I never want it to end and when I finish I want to reread it all over again. Another fantastic addition to a magical world that feels so real you’ll think you’ve crossed over the veil.
Patrick has a new investigation; he needs to go to Chicago. The Norms think something bad will happen to Odin, the god Norse.
Jono must deal with territory problem. Estelle and Youssef made so alliance with some hunters to kill Jono.
A Vigil in the Mourning by Hailey Turner is book 4 in the Soulbound series. It can’t be read as a standalone.
Patrick has to save Odin and our world against the dominion sect. He’s still searching the staff for the General Reed. He’s in Chicago with Wade and while investigating, he also has to deal with the god pack of Chicago.
Jono has to stay in NY, some pack who ask for his protection have borders issues, and Jono needs to protect them. He didn’t expect Estelle and Youssef new allies and he will also have to make some decisions and alliances that can put at risk his life and his relationship with Patrick.
I adored this book. Of course, I adored it. I want to open Hailey Turner brain and see how her brain function. Ok, I admit it’s creepy says like that, but this woman is one of the most brilliant authors of her generation. After, Greek, Inca and Irish mythologies, this time it’s the North mythology.
The story and the plot were well written and captivating. I was completely hooked in the book from page 1. I was funny, interesting with good actions that make my heart beat faster.
The details about the north mythology, and all other legends impress me. The authors did a lot of search.
I don’t know how this series will finish, each book is a surprise, a new revelation and each time he puts all my idea in jeopardy.
I can’t wait for the next book… If you haven’t read it yet, you missed something in your life… This series is a must read and a must have.
So good
A Vigil in the Mourning is the fourth book in the Soulbound series and should not be read as a standalone. Read the first three books in the series before you start this book otherwise you’ll be confused.
Patrick and Jono have dealt with Greek gods, cartels, vampire takeovers, the fae, and hostile werewolves. Now they find themselves embroiled in new danger with Norse gods and separate cities. Patrick ends up being sent to Chicago to help work a case while also searching for the Morrigan’s staff. Jono stays behind due to the responsibilities that come with being a werewolf pack alpha. Unfortunately, both Patrick and Jono end facing unexpected trouble that comes at them both full force. Patrick and Jono must fight alone until they can finally be reunited and work together to stop the forces of evil.
I was on the edge of my seat for this book as both Jono and Patrick dealt with different and dangerous situations thousands of miles apart. The moment they were reunited warmed my heart, and lead to a seriously hot and romantic sex scene. I love the development of Patrick and Jono’s relationship—it’s romantic, sassy, and so deep with a level of devotion and loyalty that can only come from true love. The plot was intricate and dynamic with so many layers and twists that I could hardly stand take a break from the book. Once I finished this book I was at a lost of what to do. The fifth book isn’t supposed to be out for a few more months and I can hardly wait.
Gary Furlong narrated the audiobook and does a wonderful job. He has to voice so many characters in so many different situations with all kinds of emotions and energies swirling around. It’s a challenge he takes on and does extremely well at. The audiobook production is well done and there are no glitches or mistakes that would distract from the very fantastic story.
I highly recommend this book and all the other books in this series. I spent one week devouring all four of the books that are out in the series and I have no idea why it took me so long to pick them up.
So far my favorite book of this series is the third book, but A Vigil in the Mourning is a very closed second. I absolutely loved reading this book. The story, the pacing, the character development, the relationships, the tension, the action, the world building, the lore, Wade and his poptarts – it’s all fantastic.
My favorite thing about Hailey’s books is the romantic relationship between her main characters. There might be some initial resistance to the attraction, but the romance is always built on a solid base and the trials the characters go through only strengthen their connection. Patrick and Jono fit together perfectly and make each other better in every way. It’s crazy to read Patrick in the first book and then in this book; Jono has made that much of a positive difference in his life in such a short amount of time. Jono’s changes are more subtle, but definitely there. Also, Jono doesn’t try to change everything about Patrick; he is understanding and supportive of who Patrick is, and freely offers up his unconditional love.
This series isn’t as high heat as the Metahuman Files series, but you have no complaints from me. Hailey is excellent at writing intimacy that fits her characters, and intimacy that furthers the main characters’ love for each other.
Oh, and Wade. He makes every book better and more hilarious. He’s a major part of the reason that I loved the third book so much; we get even more scenes with him in this one, and lots of one-on-one time with Patrick.
My one pet peeve – there are so many complex names. But it’s all part of the lore and I certainly don’t fault Hailey for it. It just makes me laugh while I’m reading because I know I’m butchering the pronunciations in my head. I need to listen to the audios for this series!
I highly, highly, highly recommend this series, especially if you’re looking for well written and interesting MM fantasy. And make sure to check out Hailey’s Metahuman Files series. It’s just as good.
***Possible Spoilers***
A Vigil in the Mourning is another winner for the Soulbound series. I have read many series over the years, and it takes an exceptional author to keep the content fresh and exciting. It is doubly impressive when they do so with one couple throughout. This author does just that.
Now this one isn’t as balls-to-the-wall as the previous books. There is still plenty of action, but that breathless, “OMG, what’s happening now” and “Can I please take a break before everything all falls apart” and “I can’t look, I can’t look” feelings weren’t there. I like those feelings, but I also enjoyed being able to spend time with these guys and relax into their relationship with each other and the members of the pack. I felt a little closer to them this go round and enjoyed the ease with which they deal with each other. The tension building as their enemies continue to push boundaries made me appreciate more the devotion that they have to each other and the pack. The author has a good feel for creating dedicated groups that go above and beyond the call of duty.
I appreciated seeing the strain the separation places on Jono and Patrick’s soulbond. It gives me a gauge to use in understanding how strong it normally is and the stress it places them under when it is weakened by distance. Theirs is a strong, yet still evolving connection that surpasses the soulbond and reaches into the depths of their emotional reserves. I wonder if, in the end, the reserves will overflow and forge them into one soul with two bodies. Could that happen? I can’t wait to find out. Jono’s experience while Patrick was in Chicago reminded me of how hard it was for Patrick to learn to let go and trust him when they first got together. I had forgotten the extent to which Patrick had cut himself off from intimacy. These guys are brutalized by this author regularly and come back stronger than ever. The sexy times are very well done, (despite what Wade thinks) and their physical connection, whether sexual or not, enriches their ever-deepening feelings for each other.
The author introduces more Gods and creatures into this world. The more the merrier, I say. These books would be tame and bland without Patrick and Jono being tormented so viciously by these beings. (And the author would probably go into DT’s if no torture was implemented) I love it.
The cases in Chicago are interesting and seeing Wade in that situation is both funny and exciting. He provides a lot of comic relief, but the author will not allow us to forget his past. He has so much potential and I can’t wait to see some of that actualized.
I am curious about the ongoing storyline of Ethan. The creepy little glimpse we get from that faction just made me want more. When this blows up there will be hell to pay and Jono and Patrick will be right there taking what is their due and I will be there, popcorn and pop tarts at hand, rooting them on.
I look forward to book five in the Soulbound series, but please, dear author, give Patrick a day off.
4,5 / 5 Stars
I am so in love with Jono and Patrick, reading each book is a new adventure like you can’t imagine.
Again, poor Patrick has to deal with those bloody gods that are a bunch of good for nothing. And like always, Patrick shall soon be knee-deep in the middle of a conflict (I hate Ethan so much) but without Jono this time. It’s pretty cool to see Patrick being, well, his cool self. This doesn’t mean he doesn’t make mistakes while he’s there. But they cannot compare to the ones Jono does. Oh, no. Jono being Jono tries to deal with his problems on his own (a bunch of killer hunters) without telling poor Patrick a word. I understand why he does it but the lack of communication is never good in a couple, even more so, one as complicated as them. But they pull it through, that’s what I love about them. They don’t give up easily and they love each other so much, it’s beautiful.
The book is full of action from page 1, I couldn’t put it down, I *needed* to know what was going to happen next. The thing I loved the most were Jono and Patrick’s interaction. I hope to read them again soon.
Vigil in the Mourning is the fourth book in Hailey Turner’s urban fantasy series following Special Agent Patrick Collins and his partner Jonothon de Vere.
This story continues to build towards the fight to be the only god pack in New York City as well as the battle against Ethan and his Dominion Sect. Patrick and Jono continue to struggle with balancing taking over New York City from Estelle and Youseff with Patrick’s job. Interfering gods continue to complicate everything but as Patrick and Jono learn it sometimes helps to have them on your side. As always Wade, Sage and the Tempest Pack provide Patrick and Jono the support they need.
5 stars for another great addition to the Soulbound series that had you laughing, swooning and gasping so the story unfolded.
How can this series just keep on getting better with each new addition? A Vigil In The Mourning is everything I wanted it to be and more. This story is full of action, humor, snark and so much more. It will take you on the ride of your life and you will not want to get off the ride until you reach the very last page.
The world-building is amazing, the characters are compelling and the story is riveting. More Patrick and Jono is always a good thing and when you add in Wade it’s a winner!
I’m looking forward to whatever comes next!
A Vigil in the Mourning by Hailey Turner is the fourth book in the Soulbound series. This is paranormal Urban fantasy story with an m/m romance aspect, fantastic action, wonderful world building and great emotion. I love this series and characters… I was drawn in and have not lost interest in the fantasy world created here; It just keeps getting more and more interesting. Jono and Patrick are fun, hor, sweet and fascinating.
Hailey is an amazing author, able to create an entire world that is as complicated or as simple as the reader cares to make it. It’s possible to read this, and all the Soulbound books, as a simple allegory of grumpy good guy versus evil, but it’s also possible to lose yourself in the mythology and politics of the various pantheons and mythic creatures battling for survival and dominance. This is an action story, very obviously, but it’s also the first entry in the series where I felt like Jono showed some real personal growth, as he finally realizes the difference between being an alpha and being a leader. The world-building is amazing, the characters are shockingly real (considering they are mythical), and the story is riveting. We haven’t quite gotten to the final showdown, but it’s coming. Good thing Patrick and Jono are learning so much about themselves and each other. And Wade – ah Wade. He is priceless, easily one of the most fun characters ever written, and a perfect foil for the other two. I received an advance copy in return for my honest review.
This fourth book in the Soulbound series takes Patrick to Chicago to deal with a case for the SOA as well as continue his search for Morrigan’s staff. And of course, it is again going to bring him into conflict with his father, his sister and the Dominion Sect. It also introduces us to some new gods and for those of you who are fans of the Avengers superhero movies you will recognize and share a sense of familiarity with some of the gods Patrick needs to deal with.
My overwhelming reaction to this book is “how the hell does Patrick do it?!” First of all, the poor guy needs to sleep for about a month straight. And while he is sarcastic, impatient and rarely looks before he leaps, it still seems to be he is much more restrained than I might be under his circumstances. I’m still not sure, even after four books, that I completely understand the whole soul debt thing but it sure is apparent that Patrick got a raw deal. Some of the key elements of his character…the soul debt, the magic injury as a result of war, the soul bond…are still a bit vague to me. I’m positive that is my fault and not any weakness on the part of the author’s storytelling. Maybe I’m a bit too black and white and need things spelled right out for me. It doesn’t interfere with my understanding or enjoyment of the stories really. I just want to understand Patrick on a deeper level.
Once again, I love Jono. He really is one of my favorite characters in all the series that I read. He has the patience of a saint. We get to see him be a bit more human and reckless here in some of the decisions he makes while Patrick is gone, knowing full well that Patrick is going to be insanely angry with him. I like the way he understood the situation and explained his reasons (which made perfect sense to him) but was able to process why they were so hurtful to Patrick. The author does a great job of allowing us to watch a god pack alpha develop and grow right before our eyes.
The story specific to this book is an intriguing one, especially with players that many of us will recognize from another format. The battle scene is intense and I couldn’t look away from the page and found myself holding my breath in so many spots. The ending is a bit unsatisfying, as Patrick makes clear, and we can feel his frustration down to our own souls.
Once again Turner has crafted a spellbinding story that will leave you emotionally drained and looking forward anxiously to the next book. And the best part of this book? By far, it’s Wade! Man do I love that dragon!! We see so much more of him and his personality and we are also seeing him mature. We get a nice glimpse of the integral member of the pack he is already turning into and how important he is going to be in the future. Highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my objective review.**
A great addition to this stellar series!
I love this series! Every book is a winner. In this tale, we get to see Patrick and Jono separated by some distance as the story unfolds. We meet new gods, new allies and enemies, and learn some new things that make the future for these guys really interesting. Jono and Patrick have some relationship issues they have to work through, which was inevitable with two strong MC’s. Excellent writing, complex plotting with unexpected moments, strong supporting characters, steamy hot chemistry, and an AU with amazing supernatural world-building make this book (and series) and all-around winner. Loved it!
Well, what a rollercoster of a book. It’s absolutely PACKED with action, with twists and turns and shocking moments, and LOTS of meddling gods and goddesses.
I was kind of afraid I wasn’t going to love this book as the previous ones, since Patrick heads off to Chicago for a case, while Jono stays in New York City to deal with pack issues, but I should have trusted Hailey Turner and her masterful storytelling. Not only the book is as fantastic as the previous ones, I actually loved that we get to see Patrick being his usual badass self alone. I reminded me of “A Ferry of Bones & Gold” when Patrick had to deal with cases alone and the story also has a similar vibe, with the Dominion Sect finally back on the frontlines. Jono and Patrick’s separation doesn’t last long and their relationship matures in such a beautiful way that it nearly made me cry.
This book is also jam-packed with Norse mythology and *screams* I loved it. The story and worldbuilding is well-thought and well-made and, for once (I can hear Patrick sighing in my mind), I really REALLY loved most of the gods and goddesses involved (especially a certain group of moterbike-riding warriors *coughs*). And those last chapters were absolutely chilling and beautiful.
“A Vigil in the Mourning” has warlike and weighty atmosphere that I really loved: you can actually feel that a war is starting and now I’m both terrified and excited to go ahead with the fifth book.
I got all 4 books to date on Kindle Unlimited which I appreciate because indie authors are not usually offered on Overdrive (free ebooks offered through local public library). I liked all 4 books, plenty of action and smart characters. There were a few too many interested parties, some times it was hard to keep straight. You had weres, vampires, fae, mages and other humans with varying magics, Norse gods, Celtic gods, Aztec gods, etc.
There was also more graphic sex than usual in an urban fantasy. Usually two scenes per book, but 6-7 pages long. Quite frankly, I started skipping them after the first one. If I want graphic sex, I’ll read an erotic romance. I read urban fantasy for the suspense and non-sexual action.
If you have read books from this author then you know she likes to give you an idea of what will happen with her title. I was scared of what the outcome might be. I am very happy with the how things played out; while also wanting to be able to smack both Patrick and Jono upside the head.
You know things aren’t great when groups have to split up and our guys get a reminder of that in this book. The darn gods keep trying to tear everything apart in their own unique ways which is always detrimental to everyone else.
I love these characters and their unique world. The time that the author takes to build each one is amazing. I enjoy the new challenges while still aiming for the ultimate goal. Patrick, Jono and the rest of their pack have a lot to do, but they are smart enough to know their weaknesses and to fill the gaps.
Jono learns some lessons and some of his secrets come out to his friends. I think it was good, but he definitely had some groveling to do.
Read this book, but make sure to read the whole series in order.