Only problem I have is that she is a patient assassin that runs into danger rather then plan. Otherwise still an excellent series. ( )

These books are pretty addicting, however my only bitch about these books are that they are quite redundant in explaining things. Like in each book it explains this person in detail in each book, and then about the jewerly Bria where's and the drawings Gin has made. It's like ok it's the 6th book, I think we know all the details on each of these by now, or at least I hope we do. I generally skip through a good piece of the books because of that, because I get tired of reading the same thing over and over in each book. Otherwise this series is very enthralling to me, and I can't see to put them down. ( )

By a Thread
4 Stars

***Warning***: This review contains spoilers for the first 5 books.

Following Mab’s demise and with Gin’s identity as the Spider exposed, the assassin has become a prime target for every thug with something to prove. Acting on Finn’s advice that she take a vacation from Ashland, Gin and Bria travel to the beach resort town of Blue Marsh for some much needed R&R. Unfortunately, trouble follows Gin even on holiday and she soon finds herself caught up in the machinations of a local mobster, who may just succeed where Mab failed.

Original world building, exciting action scenes and satisfying developments in Gin and Owen’s romance make By a Thread an entertaining continuation of the series.

With Mab dead and gone, the question arose as to whether Estep could create a villain as malicious and menacing, and the answer is a resounding yes! Randall Dekes is truly diabolical and there are several scary moments when it appears that Gin has met her match.

The writing has also improved with fewer repetitious passages. However, there is some rehashing of characterization instead, especially with regard to Gin’s sister, Bria, who has apparently regressed to her initial judgmental attitude. Needless to say that Bria annoyed me for much of the book, but she does come through for Gin when it counts, so I’m willing to forgive and forget.

Owen and Gin’s relationship goes from strength to strength, and it is fantastic to see just how much he loves and accepts her. Gin is her usual engaging, kick-ass and sarcastic self although her cockiness is brought down a notch or two, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing as she has become somewhat over-confident.

Donovan and his self-righteous asshole act also put in an appearance, and while it was my fervent hope that we had seem the back of him for good, his return does provide some much needed closure for Gin and it is good to see him get his just desserts.

Overall, By a Thread is an enjoyable installment in one of my favorite UF series and it looks ike things are only going to get better. ( )

It’s no secret that I love this series, so here are a few things I liked.

I still cannot stand Donovan Cain. He’s a pompous ass!
Bria and Gin have a lot of things they need to work out.
Gin starts feeling second best after meeting Bria’s BFF
Gin still manages to kick ass while she’s on vacation
There is some action, but not as much
Gin has the fight of her life coming

( )

4 ½ Stars ( )