by Jayne Castle
Series: Rainshadow #3, Harmony #11, Arcane Society #15
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
The world of Harmony has its wonders, one of them being Rainshadow Island. Just beneath its surface, a maze of catacombs hides a dangerous secret...… Halloween—with its tricks and treats—is a dust bunny’s dream come true. Just ask Lyle, Sedona Snow’s faithful sidekick. But for Sedona, it’s a nightmare. Though her new job managing a small hotel and tavern on Rainshadow is helping her move on from her tragic past, a bizarre disaster down in the catacombs has brought a pack of rowdy ghost hunters to her inn. And now, Sedona’s ex has arrived on the island, claiming he wants to get back together, just as a newcomer appears to have a strong interest in her. Cyrus Jones is the new Guild boss in town. He has his own agenda when it comes to Sedona, but even the best-laid plans are no match for the passion that springs up on Rainshadow….
The Hot Zone by Jayne Castle is the third book in the Rainshadow series and the eleventh book set in Harmony, a futuristic planet that ties into Jayne Anne Krentz’s Arcane series. Confused? Let me briefly explain. Jayne Anne Krentz writes as Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle. Her Arcane series began with Second Sight written as Amanda Quick and are historical paranormals. As Jayne Anne Krentz, she writes paranormal novels set in our present day and as Castle, she writes them set on the planet Harmony in the future. They all get their origin from one paranormal family the Jones. Reading them in order as I have is simply delightful, however, these can be read individually or broken down by author/trilogy/individual series. Do not run. These are fantastic suspenseful tales filled with danger, paranormal artifacts and swoon-worthy romances.
The Hot Zone take us back to Rainshadow island home of misfit characters and the strange forest known as the Preserve. In an attempt to gain more power, some have attempted to harness the power of artifacts left behind by the aliens who once inhabited this planet, while other far dangerous scientist and those in power have tried to recreate the serum a Jones created to boost ones paranormal powers.
Five reasons to grab a cup of joe and lose yourself in The Hot Zone:
1. It is Halloween on Rainshadow Island, and its newest resident Sedona Snow is in danger. She recently escaped from an underground laboratory thanks to the help of her new companion and faithful dust bunny, Lyle. Castle weaves a suspenseful tale complete with murder, mayhem and escalating danger that kept me on edge. Her villains will make you shiver and wish unhappy things to befall them!
2. Cyrus Jones. Meoow! Hunters are on the island to keep folks from traveling into the dangerous catacombs after reports of strange prehistoric monsters began circulating. Cyrus’s is the town’s new Guild boss but he is also here to investigate Sedona. The man has a commanding presence, and you will enjoy page time with him.
3. Lyle! Best dust bunny EVER. Unlike previous dust bunnies like the oh so adorable Elvis, Lyle does not collect shiny babbles or purses. Nope, he is a little OCD and likes to arrange and rearrange things. I am a huge fan of these cute little, dangerous creatures and dream of owning my own. I love how Castle weaves them into the story and mystery.
4. Cyrus and Sedona are both strong characters, and the banter between them and sexual tension was a delight. Could this be classified as insta-attraction/love? Probably. However, Castle made it feel genuine, and I fell completely. The heated scenes are tame, but that does not stop Castle from making the pages sizzle.
5. Paranormal Woo-Woo. Castle weaves in artifacts, secret formulas, evil dudes and aliens to make for one heck of a paranormal experience. I loved the Wonderland cave they discovered, the monsters and the side effects. She has a vivid imagination and has created an unbelievable landscape in Harmony and Rainshadow Island. From tuned amber to dust bunnies, it is a world I want to visit repeatedly.
Yeah, I totally fangirled The Hot Zone, but it a series I highly recommend and Jayne Castle outdid herself with this newest addition. Jayne Anne Krentz and all of her author personalities are auto-buys for me. She is an author I recommend daily.
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Rita
It sounds so good and I actually tried to pick one up once at the library but couldn’t figure out which to read first. So it is possible to pick up the first Rainshadow and not read the whole Harmony series? I think that would be my best bet, and if I really enjoy them, then go back and read the Harmony ones. I’m not sure where Arcane society fits in 🙁
Could I give you some work, please, and tell me the name of the title to start with–thanks in advance! It’s just a bit confusing on Ms. Castle/Krentz’s part to do this to new readers (older readers would know what’s going on).
kimbacaffeinate
Sorry I am late responding Rita. Yes you can read just the Rainshadow trilogy and be fine. She breaks them up into trilogies or sometimes quads, but all work independently. They just share a common thread or origin.
As for the Arcane Society, which encompasses Krentz, Quick and Castle it all begins with Second Sight by Amanda Quick and again goes in trilogies. List: https://www.goodreads.com/series/57569-the-arcane-society
Rita
Thanks. I guess instead of confusion, it is a smart move on the author’s part, because readers can jump in wherever but established readers will happily welcome back MCs from other trilogies. I thank you for your response!
Wendy Darling
Wow, I haven’t read Jayne Anne Krentz in years! It’s intriguing that this series ties in to her other one under her “primary” name, I always like it when authors dabble in other worlds. and if you have several series and pseudonyms, why NOT do it with your own? 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
It also ties to Amanda Quick (historical books) I love this series/trilogies. Back when she began this traditional publishers pigeon holed authors into genres. So she sold work another other names. All of her books now have her real name Jayne Anne Krentz on the cover as above.
Maria Behar
Gosh, I think I own the first book in this series, but haven’t read it yet…..I have SO many books,,,,,,and no, time is not my friend! I think I’ll pick up “Hot Zone”, though, when October rolls around. It sounds like the PERFECT Halloween read!
I greatly enjoyed reading your in-depth review! I especially liked your list of reasons to pick it up! Nice going, Kimba!! : )
kimbacaffeinate
Ooo yes this trilogy is perfect for Halloween time 🙂 thanks Maria
Cyn
OH THIS IS AMANDA QUICK! This sounds like a really cool paranormal romance/action novel! I’ll have to look into this series. I do enjoy her HR novels (: Thanks for the review!
kimbacaffeinate
Yes..and Jayne Anne Krentz..it starts with Quick and the book Second Site and moves through Krentz and Castle, but is broken up into trilogies and what have you. All work as standalone but share a family tree etc.
Cyn
That’s really awesome. I love that all her books connect!
Paij Slater
You’re killing me ;). Yet, another series that I have not heard of until now. Thanks for bringing to to my attention :). It sounds fantastic. You are making my TBR pile grow out of control ;). hehe
kimbacaffeinate
hehe. Soooorry. well, maybe not especially if you love them as much as me!
Red Iza
OK, your enthusiasm is contagious, I’ve just added this book to my list 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I adore this author in all of her forms plus I want a dust bunny!
Mary
Sedona Snow? I kind of winced at that name… Still, this sounds like a series I need to check out. I love that Castle has turned those hideous dust bunnies into actual characters, instead of bits of fluff!!
kimbacaffeinate
LOL, keep in mind they are on a planet..once inhabited by aliens and there are Dust Bunnies!!! , Sedona Snow doesn’t sound too weird. Wait. What? Dust Bunnies are cute balls of fluff..with extra eyes and sharp teeth..they are adorable and cuddly.
Braine Talk Supe
I’ve read a book from her Arcana series before, didn’t like it as much because my palate wasn’t as developed back then. However if I give it another go today I’m sure I will enjoy it much better.
kimbacaffeinate
I know what you mean, I have really enjoyed this series and all of its trilogies.
Angela Adams
I didn’t know this author had so many pen names…thanks for the review….
kimbacaffeinate
She does and they are all very popular, she is one of my favorites in this genre.
Sophia
*sniffles* But I LOVE those types of villains. I hate predictable ones and the ones that are just… *throws a book at the lame ones*
I would live for the day another author makes me turn in circles. Maybe give them lots and lots of cookies (because it’s hard to make me run in circles).
Anyhoo, I love the title. And the title for the entire series.
kimbacaffeinate
I love to hate a good villain Sophia, agreed on predictable ones. This trilogy was such a good one.
Heidi
I am on board with all the paranormal woo woo. Can’t go wrong with good dose of paranormal, right?
kimbacaffeinate
My thoughts exactly Heidi!
Melissa (Books and Things)
This sounds like the kind of PNR that is also UF. I love those kind! 🙂 I have been wanting to start this series for some time now and I’m glad you enjoyed it. Have to make sure the whole series is on my wishlist!
kimbacaffeinate
Yes it is exactly that. You can read these out of order..no worries.
Jenny
Well, not only have you convinced me that I need to read this series, but also that I need a dust bunny of my own immediately. I’m a little in love with Lyle and his OCD. Must meet both him and Elvis:)
kimbacaffeinate
OMG..I want a dust bunny so bad Jenny.
Debbie Haupt
Love, Love, Love all the Jaynes 🙂
and thanks to your riveting review I can’t wait to get my hands on this one too!
I love all the artifacts in her futuristic novels but the one thing I can never get enough of are the dustbunnies 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Me too Debbie 🙂
Candace
That’s a bit confusing, but I have to admit the story sounds pretty good! I have been curious about her books too.
kimbacaffeinate
It is, but like I said they all work as standalone and are broken into trilogies etc..but all share a common thread. It is kind of cool
Kim { Book Swoon }
Squee! I love all your reasons Kimba! I’ve read some of (and liked) the Arcane & Harmony books (both have been awhile) but not the Rainshadow. I love the sound of the setting and my gosh Cyrus SO sounds yummy. I may have to jump in wet feet and all on this one 😉
kimbacaffeinate
This was delightfully suspenseful, and yes Cyrus was yum 🙂
Lily
Oh I really want to read this one now, if only just for the super awesome villians (villians are always the best parts of the story) Fantastic review kimba 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I love to hate a good villain Lily 🙂
Trish
That’s fun (and slightly confusing but I get it now) the way these series link in together. Seems like it would be a suspenseful read for Halloween. And I agree insta-love can work if the author makes you believe in it.
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, they are a bunch of trilogies but all have a direct tie in..but work as standalone or trilogies..confusing but wickedly cool.
Kristin
Why do some peeps have probs with insta-love attraction or love? I never do!!! Bring it! And dust bunnies! I love it! Now I know where one of the authors I’ve read before gets her poofs from. I really, REALLY need to pick up this author!!! Where do I even start?!?!?!
I love your review – a total love letter to this series!!!
kimbacaffeinate
I only have a problem once in a while, but I always feel it is necessary to mention in my review, since for some folks it is a no. Start with Second Site by Amanda Quick if you want to begin with Arcane Society. The first book of this trilogy is the Lost Night.
brandileigh2003
The banter and tension between the two sounds wonderful and like something that I could read and love.
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Brandi it was 🙂
kindlemom1
This isn’t normally my go to genre but I am so intrigued by this series. I think I need to pick up book one and try it for myself.
Fabulous review Kim!
kimbacaffeinate
Says the girl who has been enjoying fantasy. These are quite good Ali I hope you try one.
Laurel-Rain Snow
Even though I’ve read Jayne Anne Krentz, I’ve never read her as Castle.
But you had me at the character’s name: Sedona Snow. I love that name….LOL. Sedona, Arizona, is my mystical place to go…and, of course, my name is SNOW.
Silly, right? But the rest of it sounds so good, too, I might just have to go off the grid and read this. I’ve read some other Arcane series books by other authors, so why not?
Thanks for sharing.
kimbacaffeinate
The Arcane novels are all by her under different names She writes the historical ones under Amanda Quick. I hope you try the ones in Harmony.
Jenea
I would think it would be a little hard to keep up with, with 2 series being combined together, but it doesn’t sound like this one is at least. I like the sounds of Cyrus and Sedona! Great review.
kimbacaffeinate
No not at all, since it isn’t a continuation per say, they just all share a common link in the paranormal history.
Bea
I didn’t realize that the Harmony series tied into the Arcane books. That explains a lot about the two harmony books I read. 😀 I am so far behind in all three of the series but that just gives me more to look forward to.
And right at this moment, I am seriously UNcaffeinated, sadly. 🙁
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, they all have a common thread with the Jones family. Which is kind of cool, but they work on their own too. I hope you got your caffeine 😉
Carmel
I love me some shiver-worthy villains, and Cyrus Jones sounds positively smexy! I’m also rather curious about the dust bunnies, they sound like fun additions. And, of course, I have a weakness for all things Paranormal, so yup, adding it to my TBR. Wonderful review!
kimbacaffeinate
Yeah, I love the planet and these little creatures are hilarious side-kicks.
Jo
I have this on pre-order from Amazon. I can’t wait to read it. I love the series and have yet to read one that I did not like.
kimbacaffeinate
Wahoo..enjoy Jo 🙂
Rashika
I am glad you enjoyed this, Kimba! 😀 I had no idea that was the reason why Jayne wrote under so many different names (or 2 others) but that makes a whole lot more sense now.
I’ve read a sum total of 1 book by the author and I wasn’t all too impressed so I never gave the author another shot.. I definitely want to give her another shot sometime in the future now seeing how much you adore her! 🙂
Lovely review!!
kimbacaffeinate
I have read all of her paranormal, and most of Quick’s books, and her contemporary suspense, but haven’t managed them all yet. I hope you try again.
Melliane
I really need to try these books. I only read the ones under her Krentz one, so many romances and I think I still have some to read. But I know I need to read these ones as well, I heard great things about them. Great review!
kimbacaffeinate
This is one of my favorite paranormal romantic suspense series Melliane.
Naomi
This sounds like a great series, and interesting to see the author has combined two series together like that. Cyrus sounds oh-so-yummy…. I think I’d like to meet him. And the Paranormal Woo-Woo sounds like it was developed well! Great review!
Naomi @ Nomi’s Paranormal Palace
kimbacaffeinate
It is neat the way all of these trilogies have the common Arcane thread. I hope you try one.
Nick
I was confused for a bit there in that 1st paragraph. I haven’t read anything by this author but it looks like I should. Paranormal+banter+cute creatures? I want to read! 🙂
Great review as always, Kim! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
She writes great romantic suspense with paranormal elements. All of them work as standalone. Ooo the dust bunnies are fantastic Nick!
Maja (The Nocturnal Library)
I jumped into this bindly, withouth even trying to comprehend this complicated web of trilogies, but this can function as a standalone in terms of the main story and I adored it completely. The world had me a bit confused for a while but I got over it pretty quickly. I’m glad you enjoyed it too. Cyrus… *swoons*
kimbacaffeinate
It is a web of trilogies but all of them work as standalone. I hope you go back and read the first two of this trilogy..you need to meet Elvis..LOL
blodeuedd
I have a book by her…somewhere
kimbacaffeinate
Ooo dig it out 🙂
Siiri
“Her villains will make you shiver and wish unhappy things to befall them!” OHHH, but these villains are the best kind 😉 Commanding presence? I wouldn’t expect that from a guy named Cyrus, but I can definitely get behind him still. Dust bunny? :O Whoa! No problems wiht insta-attraction, but problems with insta-love.. though, sometimes it can work. Really depends on the circumstances. I’m glad you had that much fun with this, Kim 😉
Siiri @ Little Pieces of Imagination
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Siiri, yeah the attraction came first, and the love aspect works due to the paranormal link-up. Kinda hard to explain but Castle makes you believe!