Review: Blood and Magick by James R. Tuck

 

 

Title: Blood and Magick {Deacon Chalk: Occult Bounty Hunter #3}

Author: James R. Tuck

Published: Kensington March 2013

Status: Read from March 05 to 06, 2013 — I own a copy {Courtesy Kensington/Netgalley}

My Thoughts:
“What can I say? I like guns. I’m a gun guy. Go with it, it’s okay.”

In Blood and Magick, the third book in James R. Tuck’s series, Deacon Chalk is enjoying a quiet dinner with his lover, Tiff and friends, Kat and Larson, when the world goes to hell. The Wrath of Baphomet is in search of the Blood of the Trinity and the three witches will let nothing stand in their way.

This was my first introduction to Deacon Chalk, so I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. Starting mid way in a series isn’t ideal (and I really need to stop being seduced by Netgalley titles without checking things like that first) but I learnt enough to be satisfied with this title as a stand alone.

Chalk began hunting monsters when his wife and children were murdered by a demon. The occult world is unknown by most humans, were’s of a mind boggling variety, witches, warlocks, vampires, demons and worse lurk in the shadows while magick corrupts those who try to wield it. Chalk has made it his mission to kill the monsters financed by the strip club he owns, collecting allies and enemies along the way. A transfusion of Angel blood, given when he was dying, ensures Chalk has a bit of an edge – he is a little stronger, a little faster and heals a little quicker than humans. He is also quick on the draw, packing silver and lead bullets in custom pistols.

There is no shortage violence in Blood and Magick, evil has no regard for innocents and bodies start piling up from the first few pages. Deaths are usually gruesome and bloody and even Deacon’s team is not immune. The battle between good and evil rages not only between Deacon and the monsters but also amongst his group as Larson attempts to twist magick to his own ends.
Despite the fast paced action and plethora of snappy one liners there is some genuine emotion from the characters including guilt, rage and love. Deacon and Tiff provide a touch of romance and steam (especially in the shower) while

Blood and Magick is a wild ride at breakneck speed through monsters, mayhem and murder. I thought it was a lot of fun and Tuck has earned himself a new fan.

As Deacon Chalk says:

Hells to the yeah.
Time to rock and roll.

Available to Purchase

@Kensington I @Amazon I @BookDepository

The Deacon Chalk Series

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