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Vesik #12
The Book of the Staff
A demon unleashed. An ally imprisoned. Zola risks a pact that could kill them all...
Zola Adannaya, necromancer and mentor to Damian Vesik, seeks an ancient artifact in order to save her student. Unfortunately, the only beings with the knowledge she needs are demons she trapped long ago.
Traveling to a small town in southern Missouri, where one such demon was cursed to a mundane existence, Zola must convince the creature to cooperate. Negotiations with a demon are always treacherous and Zola finds herself on a quest she may never return from. Her only hope lies in Corydon, on a distant battlefield guarded by an Old God.
If Zola fails to end a conflict centuries in the making, Vesik could pay the ultimate price—as could the world itself.
Zola Adannaya, necromancer and mentor to Damian Vesik, seeks an ancient artifact in order to save her student. Unfortunately, the only beings with the knowledge she needs are demons she trapped long ago.
Traveling to a small town in southern Missouri, where one such demon was cursed to a mundane existence, Zola must convince the creature to cooperate. Negotiations with a demon are always treacherous and Zola finds herself on a quest she may never return from. Her only hope lies in Corydon, on a distant battlefield guarded by an Old God.
If Zola fails to end a conflict centuries in the making, Vesik could pay the ultimate price—as could the world itself.
- GenresUrban FantasyParanormal
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2019
About the author
Eric R. Asher
48 books628 followersEric is a former bookseller, cellist, and comic seller currently living in Saint Louis, Missouri. A lifelong enthusiast of books, music, toys, and games, he discovered a love for the written word after being dragged to the library by his parents at a young age. When he is not writing, you can usually find him reading, gaming, or buried beneath a small avalanche of Transformers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 30, 2023
The Book of Staff by Eric R Asher
Vesik #12. Urban fantasy. Best read as part of the series in order. Cliffhanger.
Zola Adannaya is a necromancer. She needs to find an ancient artifact to try to save Vesik but there are complications since she trapped the demons that can help her many years ago. Traveling with many of her friends, they attempt to solve the quest before Vesik and the world is lost forever.
Zola’s story and she is way more than expected. It’s fun to see the group working together and the repeating chimichangas.
Vesik #12. Urban fantasy. Best read as part of the series in order. Cliffhanger.
Zola Adannaya is a necromancer. She needs to find an ancient artifact to try to save Vesik but there are complications since she trapped the demons that can help her many years ago. Traveling with many of her friends, they attempt to solve the quest before Vesik and the world is lost forever.
Zola’s story and she is way more than expected. It’s fun to see the group working together and the repeating chimichangas.
December 22, 2019
This book is a great novella to the ones the author has already released. Zola is the main character, and I really enjoy her. There are secrets released, plans foiled, and beasts killed. This author has a great way of packing lots of plot punch into a novella, so much so you feel like you’ve read a full book at the end. I am looking forward to reading the next one especially with how this one ended. I love these novellas but I admit I’m ready to get back to Damian! LOL! Recommend! I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 3, 2020
This is Zola's installment. Don't let the beginning with Koda confuse you. I like these shorter stories of the characters that surround Damien.
December 20, 2019
I need more
This book is a rollercoaster that doesn’t stop when the book ends. DARN IT!! It’s excellent, tying together many characters without overdoing it.
The things we learn, however, are quite illuminating. I’m rather blown away. I must say that I was definitely not expecting many of the revelations contained in this episode of Damien’s friends’ stories.
This is a must read for all Vesik fans. It is an essential book in the story, perhaps one of the most essential. What you will learn about Zola is shocking. What you will learn about some of our other favorite characters is fascinating. However, nothing can move forward without this episode.
The only bad thing I can say about the book is that it’s over. I NEED MORE!
This book is a rollercoaster that doesn’t stop when the book ends. DARN IT!! It’s excellent, tying together many characters without overdoing it.
The things we learn, however, are quite illuminating. I’m rather blown away. I must say that I was definitely not expecting many of the revelations contained in this episode of Damien’s friends’ stories.
This is a must read for all Vesik fans. It is an essential book in the story, perhaps one of the most essential. What you will learn about Zola is shocking. What you will learn about some of our other favorite characters is fascinating. However, nothing can move forward without this episode.
The only bad thing I can say about the book is that it’s over. I NEED MORE!
January 2, 2020
Can we have fourteen Zola novellas please? Please?
Everybody's favorite Cajun finally gets a story that's all about her, mostly. All the stories in this Vesik novella series show Asher ability to give focus to a single character while maintaining the intertwining of characters that builds a great literary world. A demon of knowledge bound to a store in the mortal plane as a shopkeeper but given access to a library out of kindness? What? What? Is it kindness? Nixie, Vickie, and Luna continuing their quest to save Damian? Foster out of the middle of nowhere?
The cliffhanger at the end isn't nice Eric. Write the 13th book quickly.
Everybody's favorite Cajun finally gets a story that's all about her, mostly. All the stories in this Vesik novella series show Asher ability to give focus to a single character while maintaining the intertwining of characters that builds a great literary world. A demon of knowledge bound to a store in the mortal plane as a shopkeeper but given access to a library out of kindness? What? What? Is it kindness? Nixie, Vickie, and Luna continuing their quest to save Damian? Foster out of the middle of nowhere?
The cliffhanger at the end isn't nice Eric. Write the 13th book quickly.
January 2, 2020
The Teacher's Turn
The fourth installment of The Books of the Dead, Zola Adannya, mentor of Damian Vesik, begins her search for the last core needed for the ritual to save her student and those bound to him. The search leads from dealing with demons to old battlefields with even older foes.
Zola is the lead character in this installment and it shows more aspects of her character and how far she is willing to go to save Damian. Throughout her long life, she has faced major heartaches and losses. She is no longer willing to give anymore - save of herself.
Another fine story by Eric R. Asher. The next installment can't come soon enough.
The fourth installment of The Books of the Dead, Zola Adannya, mentor of Damian Vesik, begins her search for the last core needed for the ritual to save her student and those bound to him. The search leads from dealing with demons to old battlefields with even older foes.
Zola is the lead character in this installment and it shows more aspects of her character and how far she is willing to go to save Damian. Throughout her long life, she has faced major heartaches and losses. She is no longer willing to give anymore - save of herself.
Another fine story by Eric R. Asher. The next installment can't come soon enough.
January 16, 2020
demons and glitter
now starting down a dark path, Eric is writing the story of one who lives in the past as much as in the present; as do so many others. but Cole's life intercepts this story in ways.....ummmmmm.... I just can't help but love her. we travel different paths as time goes short. i love it!
(Spoilers)
the great hunt for the final pieces of Vicky and Sam's freedom is ramping up. time is short. Zola takes it upon herself to visit the demons in search of the next power, traveling deadly roads. not surprisingly, that very piece belongs to a demon. and she'd give her life to get it.
now starting down a dark path, Eric is writing the story of one who lives in the past as much as in the present; as do so many others. but Cole's life intercepts this story in ways.....ummmmmm.... I just can't help but love her. we travel different paths as time goes short. i love it!
(Spoilers)
the great hunt for the final pieces of Vicky and Sam's freedom is ramping up. time is short. Zola takes it upon herself to visit the demons in search of the next power, traveling deadly roads. not surprisingly, that very piece belongs to a demon. and she'd give her life to get it.
December 28, 2019
Light seeped into the darkness, and death came screaming...
Zola Adannaya’s turn to take centre stage in the Vesik series.
Accompanied by Vicky, Foster and Luna the Death Bat.
Another intriguing addition to this new angle on the tales of Damian Vesik, but told from the view of his companions and close friends; friends who are family, who will do whatever it takes to save Damian.
I am lucky in that I get to read and review this book free of charge but I always purchase Eric Asher’s books for my own personal collection.
Zola Adannaya’s turn to take centre stage in the Vesik series.
Accompanied by Vicky, Foster and Luna the Death Bat.
Another intriguing addition to this new angle on the tales of Damian Vesik, but told from the view of his companions and close friends; friends who are family, who will do whatever it takes to save Damian.
I am lucky in that I get to read and review this book free of charge but I always purchase Eric Asher’s books for my own personal collection.
December 21, 2019
If you've been reading Eric Asher's Vesik series, you won't want to miss The Book of the Staff, the 4th installment of The Books of the Dead. Zola is taking names, kicking butt and pulling out all the stops in order to save Damian, Vicky and Sam. Things are really ramping up and I was bummed it ended so soon. Best. One. Yet!
For those who want to know: This book has some language and violence but no sex.
For those who want to know: This book has some language and violence but no sex.
December 22, 2019
Simply Magnificent!!
From the truly creative and beautiful cover right through to the end of the story, the author has done a spectacular job of storytelling! I am deeply impressed with the range of all of the characters - from basic instincts to growth of their souls! Well, except for Nudd, who has no soul or depth to expand.. hehe
Zola is someone to respect and be in awe of!
Read the book to find out more!
From the truly creative and beautiful cover right through to the end of the story, the author has done a spectacular job of storytelling! I am deeply impressed with the range of all of the characters - from basic instincts to growth of their souls! Well, except for Nudd, who has no soul or depth to expand.. hehe
Zola is someone to respect and be in awe of!
Read the book to find out more!
January 1, 2020
The Book of The Staff is about Zola having to do her solo part in saving Vicki, Samantha, and bringing back Damien. You have to read the book to find out if she succeeds or fails in getting one of several items needed. It is as action packed as all the other books have been. Part of Zola's past is also revealed in The Book of The Staff. A definite must read in the Vesik Series!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher.
December 21, 2019
Demons, and shades and death, oh my!
The battle to save Damian and defeat Nudd continues and it’s full of twists, turns and surprises. Zola has endured much over her long life and lost many friends. She’s going to do whatever it takes to save Vicky and Sam and bring Damian back. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more.
The battle to save Damian and defeat Nudd continues and it’s full of twists, turns and surprises. Zola has endured much over her long life and lost many friends. She’s going to do whatever it takes to save Vicky and Sam and bring Damian back. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more.
December 23, 2019
More "Misfits" featuring Zola
Loving how these novellas are overlapping yet featuring part of Vesik's merry band of true friends that are trying to move Heaven, Earth, Faery and the Burning Lands to get him back.
Zola's turn in the spotlight offered some new insights in to her person but ghost pepper chimichangas, demonstrates her concern about her former student.
Loving how these novellas are overlapping yet featuring part of Vesik's merry band of true friends that are trying to move Heaven, Earth, Faery and the Burning Lands to get him back.
Zola's turn in the spotlight offered some new insights in to her person but ghost pepper chimichangas, demonstrates her concern about her former student.
December 25, 2019
Zola's Turn
So this is Zola's turn to do her part to save Damian and the girls. If you read the series you will know what I mean. This is one of my favorite series. All the books are well written and have plenty of action, and this book is no exception. I do recommend you start wither first book in the series.
So this is Zola's turn to do her part to save Damian and the girls. If you read the series you will know what I mean. This is one of my favorite series. All the books are well written and have plenty of action, and this book is no exception. I do recommend you start wither first book in the series.
January 24, 2020
Another great book!
The race to save Damian continues! Matching wits with demons isn't to be taken lightly. But if anyone can take on this task it's Zola-with a little help from her friend's. I love the action in this one as much as jail have the others. Waiting on the Book of Runes...
The race to save Damian continues! Matching wits with demons isn't to be taken lightly. But if anyone can take on this task it's Zola-with a little help from her friend's. I love the action in this one as much as jail have the others. Waiting on the Book of Runes...
April 30, 2020
I love diving into these short audiobooks. Erin Moon does a phenomenal job reeling me in.
I have been missing Zola and was exciting to see this one is mostly about her. She is one bad cajun!
I highly recommend the ENTIRE series! It is hard to chat up the individual novella without including spoilers.
I have been missing Zola and was exciting to see this one is mostly about her. She is one bad cajun!
I highly recommend the ENTIRE series! It is hard to chat up the individual novella without including spoilers.
December 18, 2019
WOW.... Mr Asher is putting out great quality reads at a speedy pace. Quite enjoyable reading as this series in recent books is told from the POV of characters other than Vesik. It was a well thought out risk.
December 20, 2019
Zola's story continues the efforts of Damien's friends to save him. It's a great short story that packs a lot in so few pages and I can't wait to read more.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
December 29, 2019
Zola is a force of nature
She is. She can bring you good weather or she can drop a cat 5 hurricane on your head and leave you wondering what you did to deserve it. This book it's probably the most concise in terms of storytelling, with no trappings or trimmings, just like Zola.
She is. She can bring you good weather or she can drop a cat 5 hurricane on your head and leave you wondering what you did to deserve it. This book it's probably the most concise in terms of storytelling, with no trappings or trimmings, just like Zola.
January 4, 2020
Omg I'm dying
Ioh my god. If you have been reading the series and find yourself behind ours tonne tho catch up. I can't wait for the next book. Each once Kris aging more and more twists
Ioh my god. If you have been reading the series and find yourself behind ours tonne tho catch up. I can't wait for the next book. Each once Kris aging more and more twists
December 23, 2019
Zola's piece of the puzzle.
Another great installment in the quest to save Damian Vesik. A brilliant and entertaining insight into how his mentor thinks. I can't wait for the next book!
Another great installment in the quest to save Damian Vesik. A brilliant and entertaining insight into how his mentor thinks. I can't wait for the next book!
December 26, 2019
A too short, but fabulous story. Continues along the plot of the others. Ready for more.
January 10, 2020
Wow! I can't say enough about this book and series. There is so much packed into this book. Yet again it is another book that you can't stop once you start reading. Great read!
March 5, 2020
Zola rocks
Love these stories that show the strength and determination of the other characters as they fight the e ok far to save Vesick.
Love these stories that show the strength and determination of the other characters as they fight the e ok far to save Vesick.
August 25, 2020
Fast read and good continuation.
Enjoying the smaller serials coming with new perspectives. Always great writing and looking forward to the next book in the series.
Enjoying the smaller serials coming with new perspectives. Always great writing and looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 29, 2020
Light seeped into the darkness, and death came screaming.
Zola’s book is full of the wit and wisdom you would expect from the old lady but still amazes and entertains beyond expectation.
Zola’s book is full of the wit and wisdom you would expect from the old lady but still amazes and entertains beyond expectation.
November 30, 2020
An absolutely wonderful read. Zola is great in this. We even get a little badassery from Foster. It will leave wanting the next installment.
July 20, 2020
Zola tangles with demons and an Old God in this episode of the story.
Our beloved and cantankerous old necromancer puts her life on the line
to get what is needed to save Damien.
As always, beautifully written with excellent flow, this book
will have you glued to the pages as the story unfolds. The only
downside to this book? It leaves you craving for more.
Our beloved and cantankerous old necromancer puts her life on the line
to get what is needed to save Damien.
As always, beautifully written with excellent flow, this book
will have you glued to the pages as the story unfolds. The only
downside to this book? It leaves you craving for more.
April 16, 2020
I really don't know how to review this book. It left off in such a spot to make it feel like a bunch is missing, which I'm sure is the point to gear up for the next part. I love Zola. And, it seems there are still so many secrets she's been keeping. I loved getting to see a bit of Foster again in this book as well, I've missed him almost as much as I've missed Damian. The sheer mettle of these characters is astounding! As we get closer to the end game, one would hope for more of the positive news but, this is war, and positive seems to be something from the distant past. Really looking forward to the next part of this journey.
March 2, 2020
FINALLY!!!! I have been waiting for this book since I read the first book in the series. Zola has always been my favorite character, and her story has had so many unanswered questions. At long last, we have a deeper insight into Zola's life before the books began. As always, the story is non-stop action, a little serious, a little laughter, and a ton of fun!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews