A cycle of ritual murders. A coven of dark warlocks, drawing their immortality from the magic of their dead master. Two men sworn to stop the deaths, destroy the warlocks, and avenge the victims. Except this time, the killer flips the script.Seth Tanner swore vengeance on the dark witches who killed his brother, Jesse. He rescued Evan Malone from one of the witches, and they’ve fallen in love … in love despite the danger and chaos, going on the road to complete the quest and bring an end to the ritual murders. Their relationship is still new, tested at every turn by danger and magic.
Seth and Evan head to Charleston to stop the next warlock and save his intended victim. But this time, they’re too late. The warlock has already powered up, and he’s determined to destroy the two hunters one way or another. A deadly curse on Seth and Evan means time is running out. Can they find a way to turn the tables, or is Charleston their final destination?
Unholy is an urban fantasy MM paranormal romance with plenty of supernatural suspense, hurt/comfort, hot sex, found family, dark magic, and paranormal thrills. It is part of a series but can be read as a standalone and features an evolving, established romantic relationship with all the feels. Intended for readers 18 years of age and older.
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Unholy is the latest book in the Witchbane series, but it also introduces us to characters from other books by the author. This introduction is done well, and I never felt like I was missing too much backstory that it became annoying. Instead, everything seemed to fit together and the story line flowed nicely. I really like Seth and Evan’s relationship, and to see how it withstands all the tests and attacks that the witches throw at it is impressive. The audiobook was well done and I it kept me engaged with the story.
Everything that was starting to bother me about the last book was fixed in this book. I think the author is psychic. We finally get a chance to meet some strong female characters that are a positive influences on Seth and Evan. The fight scenes and the environments that Seth and Evan encounter were easier to visualize. I am also beginning to suspect that there will be a big reveal about why all the deputies ancestors targeted by the witches have chosen a specific type of life partner.
I was excited to get to know some of the characters from Morgan Brice’s other series. All of Brice’s books seem to connect to together in some fashion.
Once again the narration was enjoyable, and I look forward to the next book.
The books in this series get better with each one that I read. Morgan is a great author and the books is intriguing and full of action!
Another great instalment (an audio review)
I am enjoying my time with the witch hunters Seth and Evan. Although Seth rescued Evan, they are becoming more equal partners, and this new adventure leaves them in quite a predicament. They’ve come to Charleston to stop the next ritual death, but are too late. But a witness has been left behind and they need to protect him.
Meanwhile, they’ve been cursed, and it appears that curse, if not broken, will wind up killing them. I love the dynamic between Seth and Evan, but I also liked that characters from other books were brought in to help solve the crimes. I’m especially liking Cassidy Kincaide – Simon’s beloved cousin.
Adventure abounds in this high-drama where the stakes couldn’t be more critical. I did wonder how it’d be resolved, but all worked out okay. And I need to mention Kale Williams. He does a great job narrating these books, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. There were twelve disciples, so although some interesting things happened, I wonder if there are more books to come. I certainly hope so.
Seth and Evan are back in another Witchbane installment. This one gave my heart palpitations! They are headed to Charleston when they have an accident, and a warlock outs a curse on them. It’s a race against time in order to save Seth and Evan. I got to meet the Deadly Curiosities crew in this one. I loved how they all interacted with each other; the story flowed smoothly! This is a fantastic urban fantasy story!! It’s full of magic and witches, suspense, ghost and bad guys then this is the story for you! Well written with a ton of depth to the characters. Sooo freakin good!! Highly recommend!! I recently got the opportunity to listen to the audio version of Unholy. Kale Williams did a fantastic job with the narrative! Each voice was distinct, clear and concise! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
This is book five of the WitchBane series. I feel it’s best you read in order but I started with book 4 snd followed just fine, however it would have been good to have known how they came together. Having said that…this book follows in the series with Seth an Evan on the way to Charleston to stop an evil warlock. However they are too late and find the tables turned and have to rave against the clock to undo a curse put on them.
I love Seth and Evan and this book was full of more characters. Many more and I wanted to know all of their stories! The plot is interesting, the mystery is nail biting, lots of action and suspense.
I listened on audio and love the narration. The narrators voice is soothing and there is enough difference in characters to tell them apart. I highly recommend the narration if you can get them!
Now on to more books!
I loved this 5th book in the Witchbane series. I really enjoy Seth and Evan and the continuing story of their quest to eliminate the 12 witch disciples but it’s enhanced that much more with this crossover with the characters from The Deadly Curiosities series which is written under Brice’s other pen name Gail Z. Martin. I am a huge fan of that series as well so it was heaven having all of these characters working together. Additionally we get further crossover when the characters consult with characters from Brice/Martin’s other series as well. All of the universes are aligning here and it’s fantastic!
In this book Seth and Evan have headed the RV to Charleston, SC to stop the next warlock. This is where they meet up with Cassidy, Teag and Sorren from the Deadly Curiosities series. In that series, Cassidy owns an antique store which has been in her family for generations and along with her best friend and store manager Teag and 600 year old vampire Simon their mission is to take dangerous magical artifacts out of circulation. Cassidy and Teag both possess magical abilities of their own.
One of the really cool things about the book was the way the characters interact and learn from each other and how their abilities mesh so nicely for this mission. There are some really interesting story elements that weave the plot lines from each series together. While you can certainly read the book on its own your appreciation for the narrative will be greatly enhanced if you’ve read the previous Witchbane novels and a couple of the Deadly Curiosities books so that you can fully appreciate the characters and what their abilities mean and how they’ve learned to use them.
Another really cool thing is that Martin/Brice has put out a reading order list of all the books in these interconnecting universes (includes 4 others I didn’t mention above). It isn’t necessary to read all of these other books before you get to Unholy but as someone who is pretty OCD about reading series in order I found it really helpful as I understood all the references in the books to other characters.
The action is this book is exciting and suspenseful. The villain is strong and presents a major challenge. Other secondary characters from Cassidy’s world are called on to help as well. What I am going to find interesting is how the Witchbane series proceeds from here. There is no way Seth and Evan would have taken this warlock on their own and, as has been established in the narrative, all 12 of the warlocks kept track of each other so the nine that are left are going to know Seth and Evan are coming. I don’t see how they can possibly think that the two of them will be able to take these next ones on by themselves. They have had very limited help before but this time was huge help and I can’t see the mission getting easier. It’s going to be a fun needle to watch the author thread!
As a fan of both this series and Deadly Curiosities, I was very excited to read this book. It didn’t disappoint. One of the things I love about this author is the way her series all interconnect and characters from one series help out those from another.
I like the realism in amongst all the supernatural goings on and how, although the reader know Cassidy and Teag are who they say they are, they still offer to show ID, or have Simon confirm their identity to Evan and Seth when they first meet. As an aside I love Evan and Seth’s reaction to Sorren after discovering he’s a vampire. Everyone working together made me very happy. Thought their abilities and skill set meshed well, and I liked how this story advanced the overall plot of both series. I also liked how they got to know each other, and the feeling of the beginnings of friendships, and the widening of the Alliance family.
The world building is fabulous, and I liked the class system within witch society, and the introduction of new characters which I hope will turn up in future stories. Although this is Evan and Seth’s story, the supporting cast from both series come together and fully realise this world. They all feel very real, and that comes across even with characters who only cameo in this story.
The witch disciple in this story is a nasty piece of work, and very much a threat to the point I’m not sure Evan and Seth could have taken him down without help, although they still play a major part in it. Characters in other series have their own support communities to call on, while these guys are travelling so good to know they have offers of help from a wider group now. I’d be happy if there are a few crossovers in their future.
More please.
Still reeling. The further I get into this series, the more I like it. Now, if you remember correctly, this is the one I was a little unsure about, but Morgan Brice is making up for that in spades. Each book is better than the last and delves into our main characters a little more. Plus, I love the way other characters are interwoven into this series.
Unholy is the latest book in this series which features Seth and Evan, and while things have never been easy for them on their quest to rid the world of the witch disciples, this one is even more edge of your seat, hold onto your hats, and do not look away. Okay, you may want to cover your eyes and peek through your fingers. This plot…I swear it almost gave me palpitations. Emotions, drama, adventure, life-altering moments are high in this one, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it. And the characters, Seth and Evan have grown on me to the point I want to cheer them on and stand beside them when they fight their deadliest of battles. Well done, Morgan! I suggest you one-click this book today! 4.5 stars!
Edited 5/2/21 to add my comments on the audiobook released March 3, 2021
Audiobook review:
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Overall – 5
I love it even more as an audiobook!
I first read Unholy just a little over a year ago and loved it. Now that I’ve listened to the audiobook, I love it even more. If you are new to this series, or to Morgan Brice’s books, don’t hesitate to jump in anywhere in a series. While I usually prefer reading series in order, that didn’t happen with Witchbane as I was a latecomer to her books. I never felt lost while reading/listening to this.
Kale Williams did another great job with the audiobook and it really held my attention even though I’d previously read the book. I think he has done a great job with this series overall; now I just need to make time to listen to books 1-3.
I really can’t think of anything more to say that I didn’t already say in my original review shown below.
Grabbed me from the start and wouldn’t let go!
Unholy is the 5th book in the Witchbane series but it can be read as a standalone with no problem. I haven’t yet read any of the other books in the series and I never once felt like I was lost or missing anything important.
Wow, is kind of my reaction to Unholy; I’m not sure where to begin with my review. I truly never thought I’d enjoy stories about monster/witch/ghost hunters but I was sure wrong – at least when it comes to books by Morgan Brice.
Seth and Evan are hunting for a really bad witch-disciple who turns out to be even more awful than they originally thought. The blurb really says it all much better than I can. I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that the curse put on Seth and Even, which is mentioned in the blurb, is one that won’t let them touch each other without extreme pain and possibly death. Neither of them really understood how much touching each other was needed and taken for granted until they couldn’t do it. The emotions caused by their dilemma were expressed so well in the writing that I really connected with what the characters were feeling and going through.
Unholy contains a lot of characters who have appeared in other Morgan Brice and Gail Z. Martin (Morgan’s other pen name) books but you won’t feel confused at all if you haven’t read any of them. They all form strong bonds with each other during this story and I suspect the bonds will last throughout books yet to come from Morgan Brice.
Unholy contains references to all kinds of magic and objects related to both good and bad magic. There are several surprises thrown at the characters that cause their quest to go in different directions from what they thought it would when they started out.
Since this is a romance you know that there will be an HEA but boy does Morgan Brice put her characters, especially Set and Evan, through a lot of different things before they get there and I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fantastic adventure.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
What I Think: This tale starts right in the middle which means it’s such a tease as it mentions events in passing that I want to see for myself. Not fair! Don’t forget that I did a review for this Authoress’ last tale too and it was such a teaser as well. Double unfair! As always, she starts us off with trouble because there’s no rest for either the wicked or the good in this Authoress’ world.
After the first slam comes the second one right on its heels and I think whoever thought this particular curse or hex up must be really evil. We never take touch for granted until we can’t experience it. Human beings are tactile by nature (not necessarily towards each other but the things we like. You know, our pets, that soft sweater, the rough bark of a tree etc.) but when that touch causes pain to a lover, then you know just how important it is.
As an aside, why are this Authoress’ characters so cool with such cool names? Tell me, why is Cassidy such a sexy name? And why Does Father Anne sound so much more appropriate than Mother Anne especially after seeing her in action? The witch disciple being hunted this time has made things very personal but Evan and Seth have been met by an amazing group of people with differing skills and willing to join the battle, giving them the right kind of allies they need. This is apparently a spin-off series from the Badlands series as I’ve seen quite a few familiar characters.
Then a street fight comes up which let’s me see my latest heartthrob in action just as I realize just how much I want Evan and Seth to be okay. I love the determination this couple has in spite of the odds stacked against them. They both refuse to go down without a fight or let go of each other.
I do have to admit one thing though and I sincerely pray it’s not offensive. If it is, I’m prostrate in abject abasement. This tale made me miss the series Supernatural so much. It’s just like I was allowed to step onto the Supernatural set and I’m loving it so much that I can’t stop. It’s the Supernatural episode with the gay couples we never got and we deserved so this is almost, almost like high level, addictive fanfic for me.
The lovemaking just took things to a whole ‘nother intimate level as even though it wasn’t phone sex, these two finally got my dense brain to understand how and why phone sex works because I needed to sit right in front of an air conditioner during a particular scene. But by its end, I’m so ready to go after this evil witch myself. I’m angry enough to chew glass and spit out nails!
Finally, Supernatural was mentioned and I don’t feel so guilty anymore! It’s amazing that with so many compelling characters at play, this Authoress still manages to keep our attention on Evan and Seth. I just want them to be okay so bad that I’m speed reading at this point. This Authoress is truly mistress of her world and so detailed that the marsh through which the canoes slid through came alive around me. Evan and Seth’s new found family were each uniquely detailed and so real that I felt I could walk into a bar and recognize them. Now, there’s only one problem – I just did an online search and realized there are entire series that include these amazing characters that I desperately need to get to know. Only solution? A Morgan Brice/Gail Z Martin marathon needs to happen in the very near future!
Verdict? A keeper that’s a perfectly witchy tale for those of us who can’t get enough of the supernatural!
4.5 stars
“Unholy” by Morgan Brice is part of the ‘Witchbane’ series and features Seth Tanner and Evan Malone as they continue to travel the U.S., trying to break the evil cycle started by the disciples of dark warlock Rhyfel Gremory. The hunt takes them to Charleston, where they finally get a chance to meet some of the allies who have been giving them assistance and advice thus far. Unfortunately, danger stalks the pair as well, and this time, they may have run into a curse that they can’t defeat.
This adult gay urban fantasy is also a romance, with plenty of action and adventure. Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone story, however, one will appreciate the nuances better if the other books have been absorbed. The ticking clock adds to the tension of the story and the interactions with the denizens of the city are fascinating and provide a nice crossover with some of the other series by this author. I love the camaraderie and unhesitating support that is provided even as I was captivated by the challenges faced by Seth and Evan as they fought the curse that threatened to destroy everything they’ve accomplished thus far.
This is one of those books that you don’t want to start too late at night because you’re never going to be able to put it down until the very end. Whether you’re new to the series or already a fan, plan to be enthralled by an exciting entertaining story featuring two likable guys who are devoted to each other and determined to break the cycle of evil that has destroyed so many families.
A copy of this title was provided for review
This is the 5th book in the Witchbane series. If you love reading paranormal and about magic, then you will fall in love with this series and book. This story bought a wide range of characters together. We see them all work together to fight those evil disciples. This story was a wonderful journey with Evan and Seth. This book keeps me on the edge of the seat with all the suspense around the corner. The team fighting the disciples and the chase is on. Can’t wait for the next book and what happen in the hunt. Highly recommend this book and series.
BRVL –Book Review Virginia Lee
There is not as much tension, action or spookiness as in prior books, but it’s still a good read. The book starts with a bang, followed up by a surprise twist to the overarching witch-disciple story. After those revelations, the story kind of slows down. This book is more cerebral than its predecessors, and there is a lot more research than action. The action doesn’t really pick up until around page 90. There is also a lot less sex because of the curse, and the deep soul bond between Seth and Evan takes center stage. A lot of characters from the author’s other series play significant roles in the story, so there are a lot more players to keep track of. It can be a little confusing if you haven’t read those other series. I loved the way Cassidy, Teag, and the others were so caring and opened their hearts and homes to Seth and Evan. Simon and Travis phoned it in with visions and hints, and Toby had a cameo, too. I did miss that there wasn’t as much suspense, tension, danger, or scary times, but it’s still a good story, and I am eager to see where the hunt takes Seth and Evan next.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Seth Tanner and Evan Malone continued their mission on the trail of another disciple of the witch, but this one was following a different pattern, the rules of the game seemed to have changed and Evan and Seth felt helpless in an intense and dangerous race against the clock. Their relationship was dangerously threatened and not due to doubts or misunderstandings. Moreover, everything could end for them. Felt sorry for Seth and Evan and how they had to struggle with their feelings and emotions in the dire situation they were trapped. An interesting and intriguing search for correlations to discover the mystery. I liked how the different members of the Alliance united their powers and talents in the fight against the threat. They were like the Paranormal Justice League. Exciting scenes, suspense, magic, strong emotions, despair, mystery, some violence, more than one romance, lot of heated passion, intriguing characters and even the scary zombies were there. Enjoyed it!
Let me first start off by saying I have not read any of the books in this series. You can read this as a stand alone or jump into the story here. It was fun meeting Seth and Ethan and all the lovely people in Charleston. Simon and Vic have my heart but it was great meeting other people that I have heard about in Simon and Vic’s books. Seth and Ethan are hunting a big bad witch and end up in Charleston fighting for their lives. They meet some awesome people and really show how great everyone is in this hunt. If you have enjoyed any book from Morgan Brice you will enjoy this one too.
*I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
Seth and Evan are on the trail of another of the dark warlocks that make sacrifices in order to attain immortality. While this isn’t the first one they have tracked, this warlock turns out to be extremely cunning, and much more dangerous than they were expecting. They are on their way to Charleston, and before they can begin the hunt, and accident will briefly sideline them, but it is a curse placed on them be the dark warlock that may kill them.
Well written, compelling, and unique characters willing to accept the risk to themselves while they track down killers. They will quickly realize that sometimes accepting assistance from a group of trusted allies can be the difference between life and death. Action packed, exciting read with unexpected, and surprising twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. Fantastic book!
I am voluntarily leaving an honest and non-incentivized review of this ARC.
I loved it! As always Morgan Brice treat us with a marvelous story in the world of witchbane series, continuing with another Seth and Evan adventure, full of action, danger, and a deadly curse, all of them as another test to overcome in their relationship, proving again how they were meant to be together and the strength of their love. But this book also introduced us to the extended amazing world created by Morgan Brice/Gail Z Martin and how all the books in the series Badlands, Witchbane and Deadly Curiosities are interconnected. I don’t want to make any spoiler but, the way the characters met and how interact with each other is the best part of the story. A must have for anyone that as me are a huge fan of any of those series!!
I received this book as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Future thinking
Seth and Evan are at it again and I missed these two so much. It’s a super nasty witch-disciple they’re up against this time who has some painful tricks up his sleeve. So painful in fact that parts of this book made me teary, but Evan and Seth are never alone. I love how connected they are, how they never fail to stand beside each other, and really love how creative and the lengths they’ll go to be together. They make an extraordinary team no matter what is thrown at them.
One thing I really liked is that we learn some fascinating information that sheds a whole new light on their quest. Plus, I really enjoyed meeting a whole new-to-me cast of characters. They’re amazing and now I need to read their books. All of these people form an amazing found family and I can’t get enough of them. Danger, fascinating magics, a tricky villain, and more excitement and suspense than you can stand await you in this incredible book and in fact, the entire series. What are you waiting for? Read it now!