61) Blood on the Bayou by Stacey Jay

The Blurb :

It's only been three weeks since Annabelle helped solve the murder of Grace Beauchamp, and in the process, she discovered a secret world of invisible, magic-working people who have decided she might have what it takes to join their ranks.

As best as she can determine, Annabelle’s attack by a group of fairies has infected her with paranormal ability she did not previously possess, including being able to mentally move objects and heal wounds. Her new abilities appear to have few negative side effects, aside from creepy dreams. But would that change if she stopped injecting herself with the mystery drug delivered to her by the even more mysterious Tucker, one of the Invisibles?

Leery of trusting criminals with her health, Annabelle wishes she had someone she could talk to about the changes in her life. Enter Hitch, FBI agent and Annabelle's ex, who's back in Donaldsonville on an off-the-books investigation. Hitch suspects that there's a government-funded illegal lab that’s developing a controversial fairy-killing spray that could adversely affect the existence of every living thing in the delta—including humans. And Hitch and Annabelle will have to find a way to work together if they're going to find a way to shut it down.

My Review :

I am a huge fan of Stacey Jay's YA work and when I saw she was writing an adult series I couldn't wait to read it. When I found out the debut, Dead on the Delta, was about faeries I was a little bummed. I am not a huge fan of faery stories and had to admit I wasn't looking forward to the book anymore. However I did like what Stacey had done with the typical faery stereotype. Making them into mosquito-sized fairies with poisonous bites that drive humans insane wasn't what I was expecting and I couldn't wait for the sequel.

So it was no surprise that this second book, Blood on the Bayou, went onto my 'to be released' wishlist and was pre-ordered as soon as it was available. I did a little happy dance when it made its way onto my Kindle and couldn't wait to dive into the interesting world the author has created. Once I got there though I was confused. I remembered Annabelle very well and her cat is unforgettable. However there was so much I had forgotten. Despite the author doing her best to refresh my memory I wish I had had time to read the first book again.

Once I found myself a little better re-acquainted with the land I managed to relax a little into the story. It was a good plot and I found myself getting a little hooked. Annabelle is a nice character and her romances and sexual interests aside I do like her attitude a lot. Her taste in men is not to be questioned but the amount of them is. I had a hard time keeping up with who was who and what had happened between her and each one. The little soap opera that is Annabelle's love life needs to be, imho, toned down in future books.

So did I enjoy this one? I am still a little on the fence. I like the concept and Annabelle. Her friends and the plot a good and strong. The faery aspect doesn't bother me too much. Something however made me find reading this book hard work. The writing style may just be the problem but it might be the complexity of the situation Annabelle is in. I also have a feeling that there are some tiny little details I am missing or overseeing. Another read through the first two books may be needed.

Definitely a super addition to the Paranormal Urban Fantasy genre. This series could turn out to be a favourite of mine. The cliffhanger at the end and the many unanswered questions and possible directions the series could go is enough to make me come back for more. I am extremely curious to see what happens next and how the author continues things. There are things implied and suggested but what takes place is yet to be seen and despite my reservations I am going to check it out.