John O'Riley

This is really a 1 1/2 star story. I didn't exactly dislike it, but I didn't really like it either. I'm exasperated by and disappointed in it.

It has an really interesting basic premise and I was hoping to like it, because there are far too few urban fantasy books that feature older central characters. But unfortunately that alone cannot hold up a story.

The characters are one dimensional, terribly written and the writing, dialogue and plotting are flat and feel amateurish. It's as if the show more author has never met a person over the age of 30, but even his younger characters are unconvincing, flat and stilted. It's hard to explain, but it feels as if the writer needs to get out and read more. And watch a whole lot of Golden Girls episodes, sure they act immature and silly, but in the way that an older woman who doesn't give a damn what you think would do.

There are the germs of a good, perhaps great story there, possibly with a couple of rewrites and a strict editor this could have been just that, unfortunately it isn't.

Hopefully the author will gain the experience (and editor) to do his ideas justice.

ED added some more thoughts. show less

This is a very unique and funny fantasy novel. I love detective novels but I've never read one with comedy and magic before! It made a very entertaining read.
It has a quick paced story line, loveable, quirky characters and it is funny and engaging.

Nice collection of 3 short stories. My favorite genre is supernatural based books. And these 3 stories covered magic quite well. My recommendation to the author would be to expand the first story. I think it could be a novel. The characters grabbed me from word one. Read this book if you get a chance.

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

Inheritance is episode one of The Wizards of Seattle series. The story begins by introducing us to Jason, a young category three wizard with the unusual ability to read psychometry. He lost his job three months prior and was desperate to find another job. While out having dinner with his two best friends, he is attacked by a curse. His friends manage to distract it briefly but not long enough and eventually the curse show more strangles him. His best friend Monte revives him and is at the hospital when he awakens. Upon his return home he is visited by the executor of a distant cousin's will. In it, she states the her three chosen relatives must live at her estate for ten years practicing white magic and becoming white knights. If they choose not to become white knights, they must still live at the estate for the duration in order to receive their share of the property and four hundred thousand dollars.

Jason grudgingly moves into the mansion, but soon realizes that living with his brother, Benjamin and cousin, Amy, isn't as bad as he thought it would be. He also finds out that the Valturas are responsible for the attempt on his life and his brother and cousin are in danger as well. During a battle with two of the curses, Ben unintentionally releases a spell on Jason, awakening his latent category six abilities. Will Ben, Jason, and Amy be able to survive the attacks by the Valturas? Will they be able to awaken their white magic in time to save themselves? Can they trust those around them?

I've missed reading about The Grumpy Old Wizards series, so when I found out about this new series, I just had to read it. Each character has their own unique personality, but I think my favorite at the moment is Ben. He's so laid back and easy going, he doesn't seem to worry about anything. This story has nonstop action and edge of your seat excitement, as well as some funny moments. If you haven't read anything by John O'Riley, I strongly suggest you start with Inheritance. It's a quick, fun read that everyone will enjoy! show less