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Arcane Society #3
Sizzle and Burn
Being called creepy can be hard on your self-esteem--even for an attractive, independent woman like Raine Tallentyre. That's what happened when she made the mistake of revealing her paranormal abilities, bringing her most recent romantic relationship to a hasty end. Her Aunt Vella, a gifted but troubled soul, had told her years ago to keep her talents a secret. And now that poor Aunt Vella—her last blood relative—has died, Raine has resigned herself to a lonely life.
But when she journeys to Shelbyville, Washington, to clear out her aunt's house--trying to ignore the locals' comments about the "witch" and the "crazy lady"-- Raine’s highly developed sensitivity leads her to a horrifying discovery: a young woman, bound and terrified, in a basement storage locker. The victim has survived, and the culprit is on the loose. Without warning, a new man enters Raine’s life—investigator Zack Jones. Surprisingly, Zack isn’t repelled by her powers: in fact, he has his own. While Raine hears voices, Zack sees visions and within hours of their meeting, Raine experiences an intense, thrilling intimacy—mental, emotional, and physical—she never dared to expect.
There’s one complication, however: Zack Jones is working for the Arcane Society. This secret organization, dedicated to the study of paranormal phenomena, shattered Raine’s family with an act of betrayal long ago, and she’s not about to trust them now. But as a killer makes her his target, and a cabal of psychic criminals known as Nightshade operates in the shadows surrounding them, Raine and Zack must rely not only on their powerful abilities but on each other as well.
But when she journeys to Shelbyville, Washington, to clear out her aunt's house--trying to ignore the locals' comments about the "witch" and the "crazy lady"-- Raine’s highly developed sensitivity leads her to a horrifying discovery: a young woman, bound and terrified, in a basement storage locker. The victim has survived, and the culprit is on the loose. Without warning, a new man enters Raine’s life—investigator Zack Jones. Surprisingly, Zack isn’t repelled by her powers: in fact, he has his own. While Raine hears voices, Zack sees visions and within hours of their meeting, Raine experiences an intense, thrilling intimacy—mental, emotional, and physical—she never dared to expect.
There’s one complication, however: Zack Jones is working for the Arcane Society. This secret organization, dedicated to the study of paranormal phenomena, shattered Raine’s family with an act of betrayal long ago, and she’s not about to trust them now. But as a killer makes her his target, and a cabal of psychic criminals known as Nightshade operates in the shadows surrounding them, Raine and Zack must rely not only on their powerful abilities but on each other as well.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published January 3, 2008
About the author
Jayne Ann Krentz
361 books6,909 followersThe author of over 50 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 489 reviews
July 8, 2021
4.5 stars
May 27, 2015
Awesome read! Just what I like. A bit of danger, a bit of paranormal, lots of romance, a good amount of sexual tension. This was a great addition to the series. Am so looking forward to her next one when she goes back to her AQ persona. Highly recommended (as per usual with JAK's books). :)
Re-read Jan 09
Re-read Oct 10
Re-Read June 11
Re-read Jan 09
Re-read Oct 10
Re-Read June 11
July 24, 2011
Sizzle and Burn
4 Stars
Synopsis:
Raine Tallentyre and J&J agent, Zack Jones, have one thing in common - their paranormal abilities. Raine can hear voices while Zack has visions. With Raine in the sights of a deranged serial killer and a secret cabal of psychic criminals intent on obtaining the Tallentyre family secrets, Raine and Zack must rely both on their abilities and on each other in order to survive.
Review:
The most entertaining in the series so far. The romance is wonderful even if the plot is lacking in suspense.
Once again, Krentz excels with her dialogue and characterization. Raine uses wit and sarcasm to conceal her insecurities but is, nevertheless, a self-sufficient woman with a powerful sense of justice. Zack is absolutely gorgeous, and I really enjoyed the way in which he helps Raine come to terms with her abilities. Their chemistry definitely sizzles and burns and it was interesting to see their relationship develop from extremely hot and sensual to intensely emotional. I also liked the fact that their romance is not plagued by any contrived misunderstandings or trust issues.
My only real problem with the story is that the serial killer plot is so minor as to be almost non-existent and has very little relevance to the main storyline. As a fan of serial killer books, I was hoping for more details on the victims and the murderer but this is not forthcoming and is ultimately resolved very quickly and almost as an afterthought. The psychic cabal plot is more complex and better developed with additional details provided about the Nightshade organization introduced in the previous book. There is also a nifty plot twist and cliffhanger at the end to keep the reader guessing.
It should be noted that it is not necessary to read the series in order. There is no direct connection between the plots of the individual books perhaps because some are contemporary while others are historical. The only common thread is the Jones family and the Arcane society, and it is fairly easy to grasp their significance in the series arc. On the whole, I prefer Krentz’s historical romances written under her pseudonym, Amanda Quick, but the Arcane series is very entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to reading the next installment.
4 Stars
Synopsis:
Raine Tallentyre and J&J agent, Zack Jones, have one thing in common - their paranormal abilities. Raine can hear voices while Zack has visions. With Raine in the sights of a deranged serial killer and a secret cabal of psychic criminals intent on obtaining the Tallentyre family secrets, Raine and Zack must rely both on their abilities and on each other in order to survive.
Review:
The most entertaining in the series so far. The romance is wonderful even if the plot is lacking in suspense.
Once again, Krentz excels with her dialogue and characterization. Raine uses wit and sarcasm to conceal her insecurities but is, nevertheless, a self-sufficient woman with a powerful sense of justice. Zack is absolutely gorgeous, and I really enjoyed the way in which he helps Raine come to terms with her abilities. Their chemistry definitely sizzles and burns and it was interesting to see their relationship develop from extremely hot and sensual to intensely emotional. I also liked the fact that their romance is not plagued by any contrived misunderstandings or trust issues.
My only real problem with the story is that the serial killer plot is so minor as to be almost non-existent and has very little relevance to the main storyline. As a fan of serial killer books, I was hoping for more details on the victims and the murderer but this is not forthcoming and is ultimately resolved very quickly and almost as an afterthought. The psychic cabal plot is more complex and better developed with additional details provided about the Nightshade organization introduced in the previous book. There is also a nifty plot twist and cliffhanger at the end to keep the reader guessing.
It should be noted that it is not necessary to read the series in order. There is no direct connection between the plots of the individual books perhaps because some are contemporary while others are historical. The only common thread is the Jones family and the Arcane society, and it is fairly easy to grasp their significance in the series arc. On the whole, I prefer Krentz’s historical romances written under her pseudonym, Amanda Quick, but the Arcane series is very entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to reading the next installment.
September 28, 2010
Good story. I didn't want to put it down.
Story brief: The Arcane Society is an organization of humans who have different types of psychic powers and at different strengths. When touching an object, Raine hears voices from the person touching it previously. Zack sees visions when he touches the object. There are some murders taking place related to an evil organization, whose members also have psychic powers. There is also a serial killer who put a victim in the house that Raine just inherited. Zack and Raine together investigate the serial killer and other murders taking place.
CAUTION SPOILER:
I did not like one part. Raine and Zack had a wonderful evening of sex. They were both single and attracted to each other. The next day she said they were not going to have anymore sex because it was "not smart to mix business with pleasure." I did not understand this or agree with her. They did not work for the same company. She was just a concerned citizen trying to solve a mystery with her psychic gifts.
Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: five. Setting: current day towns in the states of Washington and California. Copyright: 2008. Genre: paranormal romantic suspense.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To date, I've read the following Krentz, Castle and Quick books (same author).
By Jayne Ann Krentz:
5 stars. Trust Me. Copyrt 1995. Review Date 3/1/08.
5 stars. All Night Long. Copyrt 2005. Review Date 2/9/08.
4.5 stars. Running Hot. Copyrt 2008. My review was posted under 4 stars on 1/06/09.
4 stars. Twist of Fate. Copyrt 1986. Review Date 6/23/08.
4 stars. Deep Waters. Copyrt 1996. Review Date 7/29/08.
4 stars. Sizzle and Burn. Copyrt 2008. Review Date 2/9/08.
3 stars. White Lies. Copyrt 2007. Review Date 2/9/08.
2.5 stars. Eclipse Bay. Copyrt 2000. My review was posted under 2 stars on 7/09/08.
2 stars. A Coral Kiss. Copyrt 1987. Review Date 2/9/08.
1 star. Midnight Jewels. Copyrt 1987. Review Date 2/1/08.
By Jayne Castle:
2 stars. Zinnia. Copyrt 1997. Review Date 7/29/08.
2 stars. Silver Master. Copyrt 2007. Review Date 2/9/08.
By Amanda Quick:
3 stars. Ravished. Copyrt 1992. Review Date 5/7/07.
2 stars. Lie By Moonlight. Copyrt 2005. Review Date 2/9/08.
Story brief: The Arcane Society is an organization of humans who have different types of psychic powers and at different strengths. When touching an object, Raine hears voices from the person touching it previously. Zack sees visions when he touches the object. There are some murders taking place related to an evil organization, whose members also have psychic powers. There is also a serial killer who put a victim in the house that Raine just inherited. Zack and Raine together investigate the serial killer and other murders taking place.
CAUTION SPOILER:
I did not like one part. Raine and Zack had a wonderful evening of sex. They were both single and attracted to each other. The next day she said they were not going to have anymore sex because it was "not smart to mix business with pleasure." I did not understand this or agree with her. They did not work for the same company. She was just a concerned citizen trying to solve a mystery with her psychic gifts.
Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: five. Setting: current day towns in the states of Washington and California. Copyright: 2008. Genre: paranormal romantic suspense.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To date, I've read the following Krentz, Castle and Quick books (same author).
By Jayne Ann Krentz:
5 stars. Trust Me. Copyrt 1995. Review Date 3/1/08.
5 stars. All Night Long. Copyrt 2005. Review Date 2/9/08.
4.5 stars. Running Hot. Copyrt 2008. My review was posted under 4 stars on 1/06/09.
4 stars. Twist of Fate. Copyrt 1986. Review Date 6/23/08.
4 stars. Deep Waters. Copyrt 1996. Review Date 7/29/08.
4 stars. Sizzle and Burn. Copyrt 2008. Review Date 2/9/08.
3 stars. White Lies. Copyrt 2007. Review Date 2/9/08.
2.5 stars. Eclipse Bay. Copyrt 2000. My review was posted under 2 stars on 7/09/08.
2 stars. A Coral Kiss. Copyrt 1987. Review Date 2/9/08.
1 star. Midnight Jewels. Copyrt 1987. Review Date 2/1/08.
By Jayne Castle:
2 stars. Zinnia. Copyrt 1997. Review Date 7/29/08.
2 stars. Silver Master. Copyrt 2007. Review Date 2/9/08.
By Amanda Quick:
3 stars. Ravished. Copyrt 1992. Review Date 5/7/07.
2 stars. Lie By Moonlight. Copyrt 2005. Review Date 2/9/08.
September 18, 2016
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Sizzle and Burn is another highly enjoyable, readily intriguing romantic suspense by Jayne Ann Krentz. And I say this every time I read one of her books, but they are indeed extremely addictive and easy to read.
I found myself liking a lot of things about this book. Raine and Zack were great characters, both with their own unique traits, and a wonderfully compatible relationship. I winced a little bit at the "meant to be" vibes, but I set those aside after the two of them started working together and proving that they would have been compatible with each other, paranormal senses or not. I love that Raine has a signature "screw you" smile--it makes for a great strong heroine in a sea of testosterone in this book. Zack is the typical alpha male, but I'm not going to hold that against him since he was a great guy.
The mystery was actually pretty enjoyable... until I realized how many tangents were surfacing towards the end to lend a resolution to the initial murder that jump starts this entire book's main conflict. There turned out to be entirely too many things going on towards the end that just seemed like a jumbled mess. At some point I found myself wondering whether or not our mysteries even got solved and I have a nagging feeling there were loose ends somewhere.
Nonetheless, Sizzle and Burn is still an incredibly fun and enjoyable read, so I'm willing to just go with it and move on. I was entertained. I was hooked. I am going to continue reading books in this series and books by this author.
And that is all that matters.
***
2016 Reading Challenges:
• Goodreads Reading Challenge
• BookLikes Reading Challenge
• COYER Summer Vacation 2016 -- Bingo Board Two | Square C16 -- PNR
Sizzle and Burn is another highly enjoyable, readily intriguing romantic suspense by Jayne Ann Krentz. And I say this every time I read one of her books, but they are indeed extremely addictive and easy to read.
I found myself liking a lot of things about this book. Raine and Zack were great characters, both with their own unique traits, and a wonderfully compatible relationship. I winced a little bit at the "meant to be" vibes, but I set those aside after the two of them started working together and proving that they would have been compatible with each other, paranormal senses or not. I love that Raine has a signature "screw you" smile--it makes for a great strong heroine in a sea of testosterone in this book. Zack is the typical alpha male, but I'm not going to hold that against him since he was a great guy.
The mystery was actually pretty enjoyable... until I realized how many tangents were surfacing towards the end to lend a resolution to the initial murder that jump starts this entire book's main conflict. There turned out to be entirely too many things going on towards the end that just seemed like a jumbled mess. At some point I found myself wondering whether or not our mysteries even got solved and I have a nagging feeling there were loose ends somewhere.
Nonetheless, Sizzle and Burn is still an incredibly fun and enjoyable read, so I'm willing to just go with it and move on. I was entertained. I was hooked. I am going to continue reading books in this series and books by this author.
And that is all that matters.
***
2016 Reading Challenges:
• Goodreads Reading Challenge
• BookLikes Reading Challenge
• COYER Summer Vacation 2016 -- Bingo Board Two | Square C16 -- PNR
May 28, 2022
Определено по-добре ѝ се получават на авторката съвременните романи в сравнение с историческите. И макар в някои отношения да звучеше малко ретро, тази история в съчетание на паранормалното беше приятно изживяване, не с една, а с две криминални линии.
Отново се пренасяме в света на Обществото Аркейн, което се "грижи" за хора с паранормални способности, но което се е откъснало от живота на Рейна преди години, още когато тя е била дете. Сега вече самостоятелна жена, тя чува гласове и помага на полицията при разплитане на някои случаи, докато в един момент може би тя се превръща в нечия мишена. Агент от Обществото 10-та степен - Зак - се сближава с нея в търсене на отговори по случай, който той разследва, но между двамата се пораждат чувства. Ще съумеят ли да разрешат и двата случая и да останат живи?
Книгата е съвсем леко и приятно за развличане криминале, което едва ли ще се помни дълго, но пък с пикантният привкус на паранормалното задържа интереса от първата до последната дума.
Отново се пренасяме в света на Обществото Аркейн, което се "грижи" за хора с паранормални способности, но което се е откъснало от живота на Рейна преди години, още когато тя е била дете. Сега вече самостоятелна жена, тя чува гласове и помага на полицията при разплитане на някои случаи, докато в един момент може би тя се превръща в нечия мишена. Агент от Обществото 10-та степен - Зак - се сближава с нея в търсене на отговори по случай, който той разследва, но между двамата се пораждат чувства. Ще съумеят ли да разрешат и двата случая и да останат живи?
Книгата е съвсем леко и приятно за развличане криминале, което едва ли ще се помни дълго, но пък с пикантният привкус на паранормалното задържа интереса от първата до последната дума.
July 5, 2024
My star rating:
Plot: 4.5/5
Pacing: 5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
World: N/A
Romance: 4/5
Enjoyment level: 4.5/5 stars
5th time reading this one. Enjoyed it almost as much as all the other times I have read it. Original review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Plot: 4.5/5
Pacing: 5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
World: N/A
Romance: 4/5
Enjoyment level: 4.5/5 stars
5th time reading this one. Enjoyed it almost as much as all the other times I have read it. Original review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
December 2, 2020
I am always so sure that I've found my favorite in the series but then I read the next book and my mind changes.
February 7, 2022
I wish I had started the series in order but books 1&2 are in a box somewhere and I really wanted to read this book. Krentz’s books are almost always enjoyable, a little formulaic but I think that’s part of the appeal and the whole reason we’re reading it in the first place.
July 8, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
So far the best in the series for me when it comes to world building and getting to know the society and connecting everything. I truly love the interconnectedness.
So far the best in the series for me when it comes to world building and getting to know the society and connecting everything. I truly love the interconnectedness.
April 6, 2010
Raine Tallentyre hears voices. Usually of the bad-mojo kind. So when she hears a whisper about burning witches in her recently-deceased aunt’s house, she’s quite alarmed. Lucky for her (and the witch hunter’s victim) the girl in the basement is still alive, but not the hunter has set his sights on Raine.
But that’s not the end of Raine’s problems. Because that same day she gets an unexpected visit from one Zack Jones, member of the Arcane Society and working for J&J, the company that shattered Raine’s world when she was six. He claims to sees visions. And he needs Raine’s help in solving a big mystery that probably ties in with her aunt’s death.
Grudgingly, Raine accepts his proposal (and the "temporary" truce between the Tallentyres and J&J) and the two embark on a perilous mission of finding and possibly stopping a secret organization called Nightshade, all the while battling (not that much ;)) against the explosive attraction between them and a psychic bond that keeps on growing.
Ms. Krentz never disappoints, especially not with her Arcane Society books. And Sizzle and Burn is no exception. This was a wonderful mix of suspense, romance, and paranormal elements with the aroma of a thriller thrown into the mix.
I loved both Zack and Raine and their quirky senses of humor, and the attraction between tham and the growing passion and bond packed quite a punch . This soul-mate spiel is so popular in fiction nowadays that it usually seems old and been-there-done-that, but in this case it was done subtly and with such aplomb that it was a true pleasure to read, without the déjà vu effect, also thanks to Ms. Krentz masterfully weaving the romance into the intriguing, gripping, and intense suspense plot.
The suspense was the second big plus for this story that doesn’t have any minuses in my book. There were two parallel suspense subplot running at the same time, yet the story itself didn’t seem crowded, but nicely paced and superbly written. I’ve become quite tired of romantic suspense books where the villain is apparent from the get go, Sizzle and Burn kept me guessing.
This was a gripping, tension filled book sprinkled with just enough paranormal elements to keep things lively and interesting, and an explosive romance that will leave you begging for more.
But that’s not the end of Raine’s problems. Because that same day she gets an unexpected visit from one Zack Jones, member of the Arcane Society and working for J&J, the company that shattered Raine’s world when she was six. He claims to sees visions. And he needs Raine’s help in solving a big mystery that probably ties in with her aunt’s death.
Grudgingly, Raine accepts his proposal (and the "temporary" truce between the Tallentyres and J&J) and the two embark on a perilous mission of finding and possibly stopping a secret organization called Nightshade, all the while battling (not that much ;)) against the explosive attraction between them and a psychic bond that keeps on growing.
Ms. Krentz never disappoints, especially not with her Arcane Society books. And Sizzle and Burn is no exception. This was a wonderful mix of suspense, romance, and paranormal elements with the aroma of a thriller thrown into the mix.
I loved both Zack and Raine and their quirky senses of humor, and the attraction between tham and the growing passion and bond packed quite a punch . This soul-mate spiel is so popular in fiction nowadays that it usually seems old and been-there-done-that, but in this case it was done subtly and with such aplomb that it was a true pleasure to read, without the déjà vu effect, also thanks to Ms. Krentz masterfully weaving the romance into the intriguing, gripping, and intense suspense plot.
The suspense was the second big plus for this story that doesn’t have any minuses in my book. There were two parallel suspense subplot running at the same time, yet the story itself didn’t seem crowded, but nicely paced and superbly written. I’ve become quite tired of romantic suspense books where the villain is apparent from the get go, Sizzle and Burn kept me guessing.
This was a gripping, tension filled book sprinkled with just enough paranormal elements to keep things lively and interesting, and an explosive romance that will leave you begging for more.
July 13, 2020
Raine Tallentyre, a level 10 clairaudient talent, was raised by her aunt Vella. The both of them were betrayed by Jones and Jones and the Arcane Society when they targeted her father, destroyed his lab and, they believe, killed him. Raine is now dealing with her aunt Vella's death when Zach Jones shows up representing Jones and Jones, asking for her help in his investigation of the cabal, called Nightshade. Raine is adamant about not helping and resentful of his Jones connection, but Zach lures her in with knowledge about Arcane Society and her own background as well as the chance to find out if her aunt was murdered (and to take down the killer). The two discover a passion and intimacy together that is off the charts - and they learn that they work really well together. But Raine isn't sure she can get past the role that the Jones family had in destroying her childhood and her aunt's life.
As far as suspense and action plots, this was one of my favorites so far. There are multiple threats as you have, not only the agents of Nightshade, who want information that Raine doesn't even realize she has, but Raine is also being targeted by a psychotic serial killer (and he isn't even psychic). That of course means that Zach is needed to play bodyguard for Raine while he helps her with figuring out her family history and what all happened. Raine's bitterness towards Jones and Arcane added a nice, mini-touch of angst that sort of kept them apart after their initial quick jump into bed. But the bond between them continued to grow and Raine eventually begins to see that she has no reason to be mad at Zach just because of who he is...he wasn't personally responsible for her family situation. So I really enjoyed Zach and Raine's relationship as it went and how Zach was understanding about her reservations and never pushed.
This one was slightly oddly paced, probably because of the multiple suspense plotlines and all. It seems like the villain is taken care of around the 70% mark, but then another villain pops up at the 85% mark and then there's still 15% of denouement, which seemed pretty lengthy. I'm still trying to figure out if the ending, regarding Raine's family, was just PR spin towards the society accepting her or if it was actually true. I'm not a fan of such ambiguity.
As far as suspense and action plots, this was one of my favorites so far. There are multiple threats as you have, not only the agents of Nightshade, who want information that Raine doesn't even realize she has, but Raine is also being targeted by a psychotic serial killer (and he isn't even psychic). That of course means that Zach is needed to play bodyguard for Raine while he helps her with figuring out her family history and what all happened. Raine's bitterness towards Jones and Arcane added a nice, mini-touch of angst that sort of kept them apart after their initial quick jump into bed. But the bond between them continued to grow and Raine eventually begins to see that she has no reason to be mad at Zach just because of who he is...he wasn't personally responsible for her family situation. So I really enjoyed Zach and Raine's relationship as it went and how Zach was understanding about her reservations and never pushed.
This one was slightly oddly paced, probably because of the multiple suspense plotlines and all. It seems like the villain is taken care of around the 70% mark, but then another villain pops up at the 85% mark and then there's still 15% of denouement, which seemed pretty lengthy. I'm still trying to figure out if the ending, regarding Raine's family, was just PR spin towards the society accepting her or if it was actually true. I'm not a fan of such ambiguity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2018
Raine has psychic abilities. She hears voices. These voices are of violent emotions and who has the most violent emotions, murderers and serial killers. Raine has worked for a number of years with a police detective that acknowledges her abilities but not why she has them.
Her Aunt Vella spent the last years of her life in a mental institution for having the same abilities. Her father was a researcher and after her mother's death Aunt Vella raised her. When her father also died two others helped her Aunt during her downward slide to madness. All this because of the Arcane society.
Now an Arcane Agent has come to ask her help in finding a missing agent. Raine is attracted to this agent who also has psychic abilities. Can she overcome a lifetime of anger against the Arcane Society?
I enjoyed this book as it has different characters and a very different plot to any I have read. The Society is a secret society of people with psychic abilities to help or get what they want - some good some bad. They are a murder mystery with a twist.
Her Aunt Vella spent the last years of her life in a mental institution for having the same abilities. Her father was a researcher and after her mother's death Aunt Vella raised her. When her father also died two others helped her Aunt during her downward slide to madness. All this because of the Arcane society.
Now an Arcane Agent has come to ask her help in finding a missing agent. Raine is attracted to this agent who also has psychic abilities. Can she overcome a lifetime of anger against the Arcane Society?
I enjoyed this book as it has different characters and a very different plot to any I have read. The Society is a secret society of people with psychic abilities to help or get what they want - some good some bad. They are a murder mystery with a twist.
September 11, 2022
Not too bad, I guess, for a Jayne Ann Krentz novel. It was a bit of light reading after binge-reading six novels by Louise Penny. There was some interesting friction between Raine and Zack, the main characters. A little surprise as to who the villain was. I enjoyed the escape for a couple of days.
November 2, 2021
3.5 stars
February 16, 2024
Nice combination of murder, mystery, romance with a bit of psychic abilities thrown in. Kept me guessing as to the bad guys till close to the end and the evil society is still out there. This is the first book of this series I've read.
July 10, 2024
I read this book originally when it was first released! While I remembered some of it, most was forgotten. Good story!
January 21, 2015
Author: Jayne Ann Krentz
First published: 2008
Length: 359 pages, 4702 kindle locations.
Setting: Contemporary, Washington state.
Sex: Reasonably explicit but infrequent.
Hero: Mirror talent. High-level Jones.
Heroine: Clairaudient. Father was a scientist.
There's not a whole lot to say about this series, particularly if you don't want to give any spoilers. It's a light mystery in a paranormal setting with a well-developed World. Light sex, some Insta-Love and good writing. Krentz's typically well-written characters with strong women who allow for Alpha tendencies in their accepting, respecting men.
It works. It's enjoyable. It does what it sets out to do.
Entertain.
Arcane Society:
The Arcance Society novels are published under 3 pen-names, each name highlighting setting and/or subgenre. As a rule-of-thumb, Jayne Ann Krentz is for contemporary romantic-suspense, Amanda Quick historical romantic-suspense and Jayne Castle publishes futuristic/paranormal romantic-suspense.
Book 1 Second Sight (Amanda Quick) - Venetia Milton and Gabriel Jones
Book 2 White Lies (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Clare Lancaster and Jake Salter
Book 3 Sizzle and Burn (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Raine Tallentyre and Zack Jones
Book 4 The Third Circle (Amanda Quick) - Leona Hewitt and Thaddeus Ware
Book 5 Running Hot (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Luther Malone and Grace Renquist
Book 6 The Perfect Poison (Amanda Quick) - Lucinda Bromley and Caleb Jones
Book 7 Fired Up (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Jack Winters and Chloe Harper; Book 1 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 8 Burning Lamp (Amanda Quick) - Griffin Winters and Adelaide Pyne; Book 2 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 9 Midnight Crystal (Jayne Castle) - Adam Winters and Marlowe Jones; Book 3 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 9.5 The Scargill Cove Case Files (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Fallon Jones; Book .5 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 10 In Too Deep (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Fallon Jones and Isabella Valdez; Book 1 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 11 Quicksilver (Amanda Quick) - Virginia Dean and Owen Sweetwater; Book 2 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 12 Canyons of Night (Jayne Castle) - Charlotte Enright and Slade Attridge; Book 3 of the Looking Glass Series.
References:
Author's website: http://jayneannkrentz.com/sizzle-and-...
(ISBN 978-1-405-51298-5)
-CR-
First published: 2008
Length: 359 pages, 4702 kindle locations.
Setting: Contemporary, Washington state.
Sex: Reasonably explicit but infrequent.
Hero: Mirror talent. High-level Jones.
Heroine: Clairaudient. Father was a scientist.
There's not a whole lot to say about this series, particularly if you don't want to give any spoilers. It's a light mystery in a paranormal setting with a well-developed World. Light sex, some Insta-Love and good writing. Krentz's typically well-written characters with strong women who allow for Alpha tendencies in their accepting, respecting men.
It works. It's enjoyable. It does what it sets out to do.
Entertain.
Arcane Society:
The Arcance Society novels are published under 3 pen-names, each name highlighting setting and/or subgenre. As a rule-of-thumb, Jayne Ann Krentz is for contemporary romantic-suspense, Amanda Quick historical romantic-suspense and Jayne Castle publishes futuristic/paranormal romantic-suspense.
Book 1 Second Sight (Amanda Quick) - Venetia Milton and Gabriel Jones
Book 2 White Lies (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Clare Lancaster and Jake Salter
Book 3 Sizzle and Burn (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Raine Tallentyre and Zack Jones
Book 4 The Third Circle (Amanda Quick) - Leona Hewitt and Thaddeus Ware
Book 5 Running Hot (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Luther Malone and Grace Renquist
Book 6 The Perfect Poison (Amanda Quick) - Lucinda Bromley and Caleb Jones
Book 7 Fired Up (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Jack Winters and Chloe Harper; Book 1 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 8 Burning Lamp (Amanda Quick) - Griffin Winters and Adelaide Pyne; Book 2 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 9 Midnight Crystal (Jayne Castle) - Adam Winters and Marlowe Jones; Book 3 of the Dreamlight Series.
Book 9.5 The Scargill Cove Case Files (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Fallon Jones; Book .5 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 10 In Too Deep (Jayne Ann Krentz) - Fallon Jones and Isabella Valdez; Book 1 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 11 Quicksilver (Amanda Quick) - Virginia Dean and Owen Sweetwater; Book 2 of the Looking Glass Series.
Book 12 Canyons of Night (Jayne Castle) - Charlotte Enright and Slade Attridge; Book 3 of the Looking Glass Series.
References:
Author's website: http://jayneannkrentz.com/sizzle-and-...
(ISBN 978-1-405-51298-5)
-CR-
February 16, 2009
I am a die-hard Jayne Ann Krentz-Amanda Quick-Jayne Castle-Stephanie James fan and own over 130 books by the author. It all started when I picked up one of Quick’s “S” books (Seduction, Scandal, Surrender) while in University and then discovered Quick was a pseudonym for Jayne Ann Krentz and that she wrote books under other pseudonyms too (Jayne Castle, Amanda Glass, Jayne Taylor, Jayne Bentley, Stephanie James). I am very familiar with her writing style and therefore I endeavor to judge each new book somewhat less harshly than I would normally because having read so many of her books, at times dialogue, details, scenes etc. can seem repetitive to me…but a reader picking up one of her books for the first time would have a much different experience.
The last book of hers that I read before Sizzle and Burn was White Lies released way back in February of last year. I have been a bit confused by the progression of the Arcane Society novels… skipping back and forth from historical to contemporary and between her different pseudonyms. Sizzle and Burn is the third book in the Arcane Society series…a society that to the outside world is nothing more than an investigative agency…but to its members the Arcane Society is a secret organization who’s true purpose is to investigate paranormal talent.
I enjoyed Sizzle and Burn and thought the shorter chapters enhanced the fast-paced plot. Krentz’s novels are usually characterized by snappy dialogue, strong-willed women and hard-edged men…no exception in Sizzle and Burn. Raine and Zack have a great connection that is enhanced by their paranormal talents. Only a few details are revealed about the ruthless Nightshade organization that is developing the potentially lethal drug to enhance paranormal abilities…and I am curious as to where Krentz will take this storyline. I was intrigued by the Fallon Jones character and was hoping for his story next but her next novel, Running Hot, is the story of Luther Malone and Grace Renquist.
http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot....
The last book of hers that I read before Sizzle and Burn was White Lies released way back in February of last year. I have been a bit confused by the progression of the Arcane Society novels… skipping back and forth from historical to contemporary and between her different pseudonyms. Sizzle and Burn is the third book in the Arcane Society series…a society that to the outside world is nothing more than an investigative agency…but to its members the Arcane Society is a secret organization who’s true purpose is to investigate paranormal talent.
I enjoyed Sizzle and Burn and thought the shorter chapters enhanced the fast-paced plot. Krentz’s novels are usually characterized by snappy dialogue, strong-willed women and hard-edged men…no exception in Sizzle and Burn. Raine and Zack have a great connection that is enhanced by their paranormal talents. Only a few details are revealed about the ruthless Nightshade organization that is developing the potentially lethal drug to enhance paranormal abilities…and I am curious as to where Krentz will take this storyline. I was intrigued by the Fallon Jones character and was hoping for his story next but her next novel, Running Hot, is the story of Luther Malone and Grace Renquist.
http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot....
March 28, 2012
Another satisfying Arcane society installment--the second in the "Nightshade" plot arch. Incidentally, I can't decide if this author's choice to split all her books (including this series) between three pennames--one for stories set in the past, present and future respectively--is more charming than it is logistically frustrating. Of course, Goodreads's inability to link between author pseudonyms certainly doesn't help, since as a result there's no one list of this series (in order!) here.
Anyway, this one is a satisfying little mystery with just enough suspense, but never too close for comfort. And also, because the heroine grew up outside of the Arcane society and has legitimate reasons to be wary of them, we get a more nuanced view of Arcane and its history. That's one of the things I like about this series actually--that it is critical of central aspects of its own world building; in fact, in other books, this critique of powerful institutions is overtly feminist. This is especially obvious is the "historical" books published under the Amanda Quick nom de plume, but also there in more subtle ways in the present tense books. Certainly, the misogyny is ripe in the murderous obsessions of (one of) the killer(s) in this book...
Oh! And side note: I liked that this book didn't mock the uber-Gothtasticness of Pandora, Raine's assistant in her costume business. Huh, I guess I'll bump up the rating to 4 stars, even though it's not my fave in the series, since I don't have anything bad to say about it!
Anyway, this one is a satisfying little mystery with just enough suspense, but never too close for comfort. And also, because the heroine grew up outside of the Arcane society and has legitimate reasons to be wary of them, we get a more nuanced view of Arcane and its history. That's one of the things I like about this series actually--that it is critical of central aspects of its own world building; in fact, in other books, this critique of powerful institutions is overtly feminist. This is especially obvious is the "historical" books published under the Amanda Quick nom de plume, but also there in more subtle ways in the present tense books. Certainly, the misogyny is ripe in the murderous obsessions of (one of) the killer(s) in this book...
Oh! And side note: I liked that this book didn't mock the uber-Gothtasticness of Pandora, Raine's assistant in her costume business. Huh, I guess I'll bump up the rating to 4 stars, even though it's not my fave in the series, since I don't have anything bad to say about it!
June 15, 2014
Ugh, no. NO. NOOOO!!! I listened to this book in the car on my way home from work when there's nothing good on the radio. I thought about quitting multiple times, but I didn't have any other audio books yet, so I hung in there. The sex scenes were random. I found myself skipping a couple of them actually. I didn't really understand the connected between Zack and Raine. Sure by the end, it made sense, but they got together way too fast. There was none of the tension, romantically or sexually. To be fair, this isn't my type of book at all. My mom picked it up randomly from the library and didn't pay attention to what it was about. It cracked me up whenever Raine talked about hating the Jones family, because I always pictured my family reunions, and what kind of evil society we would be. Then it wasn't evil anymore... I really hated that she just KNEW that Mr. Jones would be part of the Arcane society in the beginning, as if Jones was a super uncommon last name. I mean really, how many Joneses does the average person come across in their lifetime? I'm sure more than just ones connected to a super secret psychic group. I stayed with it because I wanted to find out what happened in the end, but then the end felt kind of disappointing. I guess this could be good for the lonely housewife that wants to read some sort of sexy romance novel with a plot. For me though, blah. No. Never again.
October 18, 2023
This time around, I listened to the Audible version. I first (and only) time I read this book was back in 2011, before GR had "shelves." And I didn't leave a review, though I rated the book. Ah well. Anyway, this is the second contemporary book in the Arcane Series. The Jones family is at it again. J&J Investigations has a big case on their hands. Raine Tallentyre has no reason to trust the Society and despite being a level 10 aural psychic, she was raised outside of their auspices and influence. It's a testiment that she's sane because she "hears voices," especially at crime scenes. The aunt who raised her has died and Raine is in a small Washington town to put her aunt's house on the market. Until she finds the kidnapped girl locked up in the basement. Zack Jones arrives on the scene. He's a level 10 mirror psychic. When he touches things, he "sees" what occurred. This is now defined as psychometry. Anyway, she's in danger, he's on the big case, and somehow, everything that is going one is all tied together. Again, no spoilers but yay for twists and turns that I didn't see (or remember) coming. I enjoyed this one a lot.
April 28, 2019
I really love Zack and Raine together. The pairing was great from the get-go: two equally powerful talents, and Raine who has felt so isolated and alone finally has someone who understands and is unafraid of her unusual talent. I love how Zack decided to be completely honest with her right from the first, instead of trying to manipulate her or string her a line. It put the relationship on the right footing from the start and was just a wonderful beginning.
Raine's background was sad, but she is a survivor and she has found a way to use her talent for good. At the same time, there is the very real need to set boundaries and she struggles with guilt when she says no to a request for help to solve a case. She's a three-dimensional person, not perfect by any means but just a person who is always trying to do the right thing. Then Zack blows into her life.
I like how Raine gives Zack a chance, despite the fact that she has no love lost for the investigation firm he represents, Jones & Jones. She treats him as an individual and doesn't hold him responsible for old wounds caused by his employer. Zack, on the other hand, is up-front with her, which I felt showed her respect and also showed that he cared about her needs and feelings. Sure, some part of it is strategic, but overall he makes the choices he makes because he recognises that she is or will be important to him.
Raine's background was sad, but she is a survivor and she has found a way to use her talent for good. At the same time, there is the very real need to set boundaries and she struggles with guilt when she says no to a request for help to solve a case. She's a three-dimensional person, not perfect by any means but just a person who is always trying to do the right thing. Then Zack blows into her life.
I like how Raine gives Zack a chance, despite the fact that she has no love lost for the investigation firm he represents, Jones & Jones. She treats him as an individual and doesn't hold him responsible for old wounds caused by his employer. Zack, on the other hand, is up-front with her, which I felt showed her respect and also showed that he cared about her needs and feelings. Sure, some part of it is strategic, but overall he makes the choices he makes because he recognises that she is or will be important to him.
October 15, 2023
Another member of the prolific Jones family is about to meet his match and, quite frankly, Zack and Raine fit together nicely. He sees the past, she hears it. Unfortunately for both of them, they tend to experience only the violent or dangerous pieces, but now they can experience them together.
That said, Raine is NOT thrilled to suddenly have Jones & Jones in her business. But a lady's gotta do what a lady's gotta do and it turns out Raine does need Zack's help. Because dangerous things are happening around her and nothing good ever comes when Nightshade is trolling for old information.
On Zack's end, he's wildly drawn to Raine, but the past isn't an easy beast to shake. A little digging around, a few brushes with danger, and a couple of steamy moments, though, and Zack starts to see things a little more clearly. By that, he sees that Raine is kind of perfect for him. Now he just ahas to convince her of that.
The Jones family is widespread, the bad guys are tricky, and killers keep popping up to try to end the couple. Which is pretty much exactly what I was looking for when I picked up this book. Yep, GOOD TIMES ALL AROUND!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
That said, Raine is NOT thrilled to suddenly have Jones & Jones in her business. But a lady's gotta do what a lady's gotta do and it turns out Raine does need Zack's help. Because dangerous things are happening around her and nothing good ever comes when Nightshade is trolling for old information.
On Zack's end, he's wildly drawn to Raine, but the past isn't an easy beast to shake. A little digging around, a few brushes with danger, and a couple of steamy moments, though, and Zack starts to see things a little more clearly. By that, he sees that Raine is kind of perfect for him. Now he just ahas to convince her of that.
The Jones family is widespread, the bad guys are tricky, and killers keep popping up to try to end the couple. Which is pretty much exactly what I was looking for when I picked up this book. Yep, GOOD TIMES ALL AROUND!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
November 16, 2023
The characters and dialogue are as good as ever and the suspense is the kind I like, i.e., not too close for comfort. The plot got off to a fast start and kept up the pace until the end. Krentz books are always easy to read and hard to put down, even though I've read them multiple times, some as many as a dozen times. I particularly enjoyed the crime-solving hobby of Raine Tallentyre, in spite of its psychic nature, and wish there had been more detailed descriptions of her work with Bradley Mitchell, the cop. Possibly Ms. Krentz will consider a future book where the action centers on Mr. Mitchell aided by a new psychic heroine. It would be a shame to waste such a great character. I particularly liked that Raine is not as impetuous as many of her female characters. She had some distance in her attitude, almost aloof. It was Zach who was ready to jump in without looking. A bit of a switch and I enjoyed the unexpectedness of it.
August 19, 2012
Excellent series entry, I wasn't sure if Jayne Ann Krentz series on the Arcane could bounce between the 19th century (as Amanda Quick) and the 21st (Jayne Ann Krentz). Paranormal investigation are really well done in this series, if it wasn't for the paranormal I'd say this was a straight up romance/suspense series. This is my third in the series and I know I'll be moving onto book 4 before I know it. Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick is an excellent writer.
BTW I've been doing this entire series via Audio book, I do think she could pick a slightly better voice to do the series, it seems either the female voice is just right or the male but for some strange reason it's never perfect with both characters at the same time. This time the male voice came off almost flat but in the prior series the woman was to high pitched. It wasn't enough for me not to enjoy it but I know it would have been enhanced had both voices been perfect. So call me picky...
BTW I've been doing this entire series via Audio book, I do think she could pick a slightly better voice to do the series, it seems either the female voice is just right or the male but for some strange reason it's never perfect with both characters at the same time. This time the male voice came off almost flat but in the prior series the woman was to high pitched. It wasn't enough for me not to enjoy it but I know it would have been enhanced had both voices been perfect. So call me picky...
February 9, 2010
I am almost embarrassed to say I read this book. I picked it up off the library shelf and quickly read the back. It sounded like a decent book and I was in a hurry so I grabbed it. I didn't really notice the front until I picked it up to read. I thought maybe it looked similar to the trashy romance novels with "heaving bosoms and pulsing members", but the summary didn't sound like that so I read it. Soon discovered it was very similar to those romance novels. I thought it was a suspense novel. It does have the suspense, but quite a few more bedroom scenes than I typically like in a little too much detail. Also a little too much swearing. Call me a prude, but that's how I feel. By the time I got to the bedroom scene I was enjoying the plot. So I sheepishly finished. I probably won't read anymore of this author's works.
August 18, 2018
This I enjoyed. Am beginning to wonder if I should read more of JAK's contemporaries. The plot is not super different than the others, but I enjoy the balance more a lot of the time. I also kind of enjoy the Arcane Society books. I also enjoy how this book dealt with Bradley, someone who the heroine had thought might be a good potential boyfriend who rejected her advances. It's interesting, because Bradley is consistently portrayed as a good cop, and a mostly good guy, who just isn't that into her. And he's seen this way by everyone, including the heroine. She even continues to trust his professional integrity and ability. It's nice when people are grown up's is all I'm saying.
Also enjoyed the mystery, and Raine and Zach's dynamic is just funtimes.
Also enjoyed the mystery, and Raine and Zach's dynamic is just funtimes.
November 2, 2010
This is a good blend of mystery, action, romance, and suspense. And all with a paranormal twist. There was less sentimentality in this book than the last book, White Lies, which I appreciated. The hero and heroine were strong characters and handled themselves well. Krentz doesn't resort of big misunderstandings, anger, lies, or other regretful scenarios to create tension in the relationship. The tension there seems understandable given the couples differing backgrounds and the events happening around them. The double suspense and mystery plot lines were interesting and convoluted enough to keep me guessing. Good effort by Krentz. I'm looking forward to more Arcane Society books.
April 21, 2009
Another excellent entry in the Arcane Society series - great characters, suspenseful plotting and interesting setting - all set off by the touch of paranormal. This is one of the contemporary books [the historicals seem to be being published under the Amanda Quick name:] and the sequel to White Lies. Operatives of the Nightshade group are the bad guys again - with a serving of serial killer on the side. Real page-turning read.
The Perfect Poison - Book 6
Running Hot - Book 5
The Third Circle - Book 4
Sizzle and Burn - Book 3
White Lies - Book 2
Second Sight - Book 1
The Perfect Poison - Book 6
Running Hot - Book 5
The Third Circle - Book 4
Sizzle and Burn - Book 3
White Lies - Book 2
Second Sight - Book 1
Displaying 1 - 30 of 489 reviews