Review: Light-hearted with gripping tension
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 01 1, 2012
Stephany Simmon's novella, Voodoo Dues dives right into the action, setting the tone for this fast-paced, delightful urban fantasy offering.  We're introduced to the mysterious Lian and the vivacious, spirited Figg, a bar owner and his bartender until they get mixed up in something neither of them ever bargained for.  I liked Figg at once - she's saucy, self-aware, unique, and doesn't pretend to be anything she isn't.  I wasn't sure about Lian - I didn't quite understand him or his motivations at first, although it all became somewhat clearer over the course of the novella, but I definitely wanted more time with him, to truly "get" him.Voodoo Dues is a fun read, light-hearted at times, dipping into the serious at others.  As Lian and Figg become embroiled in voodoo culture, including the local voodoo queen, Rene Champtillion, it soon becomes clear they're in over their head.  Neither of them expected to have to deal with someone raising zombies from the dead, much less the other dangers coming their way.The characters were what stood out in this novella for me.  Rene is a character I'd like to read more about, possibly even in her own short story or novella.  I was rather drawn to her, to the aura around her.  I also have a big soft spot for Carl, and his spirit guide.  There were several moments I snickered or laughed aloud thanks to him, and the unexpected comic relief he provided.I really loved the tension, sexual and otherwise, between Figg and Lian.  I was left craving more of that, of them.  They had a really cool vibe, and I would love to read even a full-length novel about them, in order to better explore their bond.  Voodoo Dues took them beyond where they had been, the employer-employee connection, kinda hurtled them toward the next level without ever fully stating they were there yet.Overall, I really enjoyed Voodoo Dues.  I can't rate it a 4 or 5 star read, but in this case, 3.5 is NOT bad, in my opinion.  My rating is in no way meant to indicate I did not like this novella.  I simply felt as if it was too short!  The 71 pages flew by - I wanted, and needed more.  I sincerely hope that Stephany Simmons writes more, and I have hope, going on the Goodreads listing, calling VooDoo Dues the first in a series.  I need more of Lian and Figg, their interaction, his history, and their future adventures.Originally posted at Once Upon a Prologue