This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 13
The Winchesters are off on another quest — this time searching for the long lost Occultum. It’s billed as a weapon at first, but later they find it’s something completely different. This episode was chock full of guest stars, location changes, and additions to the divine lore in Supernatural. Let’s dive on in.
It’s potentially the end of the world as we know it, but Dean feels fine enough to make his usual bro-y quips to lighten the mood. When Castiel is describing what happened to the mystical Occultum, a thing that they could use against Chuck, Dean makes all these movie plot guesses as to what happened it, much to the angel’s chagrin. This little bit of levity kept the tone from getting too bleak from the start — but then the writers through in some Richie Rich Winchesters from another universe,...
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 13
The Winchesters are off on another quest — this time searching for the long lost Occultum. It’s billed as a weapon at first, but later they find it’s something completely different. This episode was chock full of guest stars, location changes, and additions to the divine lore in Supernatural. Let’s dive on in.
It’s potentially the end of the world as we know it, but Dean feels fine enough to make his usual bro-y quips to lighten the mood. When Castiel is describing what happened to the mystical Occultum, a thing that they could use against Chuck, Dean makes all these movie plot guesses as to what happened it, much to the angel’s chagrin. This little bit of levity kept the tone from getting too bleak from the start — but then the writers through in some Richie Rich Winchesters from another universe,...
- 3/24/2020
- by Chris Longo
- Den of Geek
Sam and Dean try their luck in a magic pool hall with dire consequences while Cass poses as an FBI agent on Supernatural's "The Gamblers."
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This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 11
Sam and Dean have seen a lot of troubles in their life, but nothing quite compares to being a normal person devoid of special divine luck. That special luck was how Sam and Dean have gotten out of any number of scrapes, miraculously had no money problems and skirted death an astounding number of times.
Without that, they now have normal problems. In fact, Sam has to get annoyed at Dean for eating their last travel sandwich because for once they have to be on a budget. Add to that Dean’s lactose intolerance, Baby’s tendency to break down, and -- oh, right -- literally God wanting them dead? They’ve got...
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This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 15 Episode 11
Sam and Dean have seen a lot of troubles in their life, but nothing quite compares to being a normal person devoid of special divine luck. That special luck was how Sam and Dean have gotten out of any number of scrapes, miraculously had no money problems and skirted death an astounding number of times.
Without that, they now have normal problems. In fact, Sam has to get annoyed at Dean for eating their last travel sandwich because for once they have to be on a budget. Add to that Dean’s lactose intolerance, Baby’s tendency to break down, and -- oh, right -- literally God wanting them dead? They’ve got...
- 1/31/2020
- Den of Geek
A long lost Winchester, a Queen of Hell, and more return in the mid-season finale.
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This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
“What is it with you people? Can’t anything you do be easy?” Donatello asked the Winchesters this episode. It would seem not, as they had to visit Hell, find Adam and Michael, and continue their drastic last-ditch efforts to spurn a vengeful Chuck in his world ending plans. The Winchesters’ lives are full of crazy scenarios and death defying odds, and there’s no slowing down on that now.
The mid-season finale brought back some notable characters, the biggest being Adam, Michael, and Rowena. The episode encapsulates the mission statement of this season to bring back fan favorites and tie up important loose ends.
Rowena’s scene in Hell was beautiful. She is completely in her element, commanding the forces of Hell and still helping the...
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This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
“What is it with you people? Can’t anything you do be easy?” Donatello asked the Winchesters this episode. It would seem not, as they had to visit Hell, find Adam and Michael, and continue their drastic last-ditch efforts to spurn a vengeful Chuck in his world ending plans. The Winchesters’ lives are full of crazy scenarios and death defying odds, and there’s no slowing down on that now.
The mid-season finale brought back some notable characters, the biggest being Adam, Michael, and Rowena. The episode encapsulates the mission statement of this season to bring back fan favorites and tie up important loose ends.
Rowena’s scene in Hell was beautiful. She is completely in her element, commanding the forces of Hell and still helping the...
- 12/13/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 8, 2019
Kel Kade’s new fantasy novel defies expectations, by putting a new spin on the very old Hero's Journey template.
This article is sponsored by Tor Books. All views expressed in the article reflect those of the writer.
Coined by academic Joseph Campbell and made more famous by George Lucas’ use of the template in Star Wars: A New Hope, The Hero’s Journey is a classic structure for fantasy stories. The Hero’s Journey is comprised of a hero who receives a call to adventure, has a mentor to guide them, goes on a journey to defeat their nemesis, experiences trials and tribulations, and has a dark moment of the soul before the climax where they grow as a character.
The “Chosen One” trope is a common variation on the Hero’s Journey. You know the one: someone has been fated to defeat the Dark Lord...
Kel Kade’s new fantasy novel defies expectations, by putting a new spin on the very old Hero's Journey template.
This article is sponsored by Tor Books. All views expressed in the article reflect those of the writer.
Coined by academic Joseph Campbell and made more famous by George Lucas’ use of the template in Star Wars: A New Hope, The Hero’s Journey is a classic structure for fantasy stories. The Hero’s Journey is comprised of a hero who receives a call to adventure, has a mentor to guide them, goes on a journey to defeat their nemesis, experiences trials and tribulations, and has a dark moment of the soul before the climax where they grow as a character.
The “Chosen One” trope is a common variation on the Hero’s Journey. You know the one: someone has been fated to defeat the Dark Lord...
- 11/7/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 24, 2019
We talked with Supernatural actress Ruth Connell Rowena's journey and...what item she’d love to keep from her wardrobe.
Rowena MacLeod is one of the few villains on Supernatural to not only last more than a season, but to grow and change as a character. It’s not exactly easy for a witch born in the 17th Century to show that much development, but as portrayed by Scottish actress Ruth Connell, Rowena is able to pull it off. Now the witch is a strong ally in Team Free Will’s fight against The End, but its been quite a journey to get to this point.
read more: What Legacy Will Supernatural Leave Behind?
We talked with Connell about her experiences on the show as well as what wardrobe item she’d like Warner Brothers to send her. Listen up, Warner Brothers!
Den Of Geek: What is...
We talked with Supernatural actress Ruth Connell Rowena's journey and...what item she’d love to keep from her wardrobe.
Rowena MacLeod is one of the few villains on Supernatural to not only last more than a season, but to grow and change as a character. It’s not exactly easy for a witch born in the 17th Century to show that much development, but as portrayed by Scottish actress Ruth Connell, Rowena is able to pull it off. Now the witch is a strong ally in Team Free Will’s fight against The End, but its been quite a journey to get to this point.
read more: What Legacy Will Supernatural Leave Behind?
We talked with Connell about her experiences on the show as well as what wardrobe item she’d like Warner Brothers to send her. Listen up, Warner Brothers!
Den Of Geek: What is...
- 10/24/2019
- Den of Geek
As Bridget Lamonica from Den of Geek! has already said this season is starting out pretty much the way that people were hoping for since it’s been a thrill ride from the word go. There are already a good number of questions just waiting to be answered, such as whether we’re going to be as enamored of Dean later as we are now being one of them. It’s hard to know if mention of how he was torturing souls in hell is going to be just a one-off mention or if it will come back to haunt him eventually. With
What’s in Store for Supernatural Season 15?...
What’s in Store for Supernatural Season 15?...
- 10/17/2019
- by Tom
- TVovermind.com
Bridget Lamonica Oct 14, 2019
Looking for a spooky read for October? Look no further than Ann Cardinal's Ya horror Five Midnights.
When you’re looking for a creepy read this October, you might turn to your typical Stephen King or get nostalgic with a tattered copy of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. However if you’re looking for something different – something with a moody atmosphere, a culturally significant monster and enough drama to cement the story in reality – you’d be looking for a copy of Five Midnights by Ann Dávila Cardinal.
Lupe is visiting her uncle in Puerto Rico when she learns of a series of murders of young men in the area. The murders appear to casualties of living a life of drug use, until another unsettling pattern emerges. All the young men were childhood friends.
What follows is a story steeped in lore – introducing a boogeyman of sorts called El Cuco,...
Looking for a spooky read for October? Look no further than Ann Cardinal's Ya horror Five Midnights.
When you’re looking for a creepy read this October, you might turn to your typical Stephen King or get nostalgic with a tattered copy of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. However if you’re looking for something different – something with a moody atmosphere, a culturally significant monster and enough drama to cement the story in reality – you’d be looking for a copy of Five Midnights by Ann Dávila Cardinal.
Lupe is visiting her uncle in Puerto Rico when she learns of a series of murders of young men in the area. The murders appear to casualties of living a life of drug use, until another unsettling pattern emerges. All the young men were childhood friends.
What follows is a story steeped in lore – introducing a boogeyman of sorts called El Cuco,...
- 10/14/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Aug 21, 2019
As it enters its fifteenth and final season, we take a look at Supernatural's impact on its fandom and beyond.
Supernatural has survived to see the rise and fall of many shows on its network. It even survived the death of a network. When The WB, where Supernatural first premiered in 2005, merged with Upn to become The CW in 2006, Supernatural went with it.
Supernatural holds the record for longest running American scifi/fantasy show and will no doubt hold the record for a while, even after it ends following Season 15 at 327 episodes. It’s only understandable that such a long running show has amassed itself quite the loyal and fervent fanbase. Supernatural has had a real impact on their fans, and the fans on the show itself.
read more: Supernatural Season 15: Which Characters Are Returning?
“It has been an amazing fandom and it has coalesced...
As it enters its fifteenth and final season, we take a look at Supernatural's impact on its fandom and beyond.
Supernatural has survived to see the rise and fall of many shows on its network. It even survived the death of a network. When The WB, where Supernatural first premiered in 2005, merged with Upn to become The CW in 2006, Supernatural went with it.
Supernatural holds the record for longest running American scifi/fantasy show and will no doubt hold the record for a while, even after it ends following Season 15 at 327 episodes. It’s only understandable that such a long running show has amassed itself quite the loyal and fervent fanbase. Supernatural has had a real impact on their fans, and the fans on the show itself.
read more: Supernatural Season 15: Which Characters Are Returning?
“It has been an amazing fandom and it has coalesced...
- 8/20/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Aug 12, 2019
We talked to the Supernatural Season 15 cast and creators about what happens to Team Free Will when God is your villain...
Warning: This Supernatural Season 15 article contains major spoilers for the end of Supernatural Season 14.
Ever since Castiel first gripped Dean tight and raised him from Perdition in Supernatural Season 4, the concept of free will has been an important one on Supernatural. Heaven was an absolute real thing, not just a nebulous concept, and the Winchesters were introduced to their first prophet, Chuck Shurley, who ended up being so much more than he let on...
What direction will this exploration take in Supernatural Season 15? Den of Geek spoke with producers Bob Berens, Robert Singer, Andrew Dabb, as well as actors Jared Padalecki and Misha Collins to dive into what it really means when God is your enemy.
The evolution of Chuck.
In Season 4 episode "The Monster at the End of This Book,...
We talked to the Supernatural Season 15 cast and creators about what happens to Team Free Will when God is your villain...
Warning: This Supernatural Season 15 article contains major spoilers for the end of Supernatural Season 14.
Ever since Castiel first gripped Dean tight and raised him from Perdition in Supernatural Season 4, the concept of free will has been an important one on Supernatural. Heaven was an absolute real thing, not just a nebulous concept, and the Winchesters were introduced to their first prophet, Chuck Shurley, who ended up being so much more than he let on...
What direction will this exploration take in Supernatural Season 15? Den of Geek spoke with producers Bob Berens, Robert Singer, Andrew Dabb, as well as actors Jared Padalecki and Misha Collins to dive into what it really means when God is your enemy.
The evolution of Chuck.
In Season 4 episode "The Monster at the End of This Book,...
- 8/13/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Aug 14, 2019
With Supernatural coming to an end, we speak with Misha Collins and executive producer Robert Singer about their mixed emotions.
Misha Collins has a unique perspective on The CW’s mega fandom hit Supernatural. His character Castiel was introduced in season 4 and never meant to become a series regular. The popularity of Castiel among fans secured his place, and now he’s closing out the entire series eleven years later.
“You don't get into this line of work for job security and none of us ever expected to work on anything for this long,” Collins said. “I mean, it's not hyperbolic to say that it feels like a family. You know, we just all know each other so well and been through so much together. It's such a significant chunk of our lives. We haven't dreaded going to work. We really like the show and we like...
With Supernatural coming to an end, we speak with Misha Collins and executive producer Robert Singer about their mixed emotions.
Misha Collins has a unique perspective on The CW’s mega fandom hit Supernatural. His character Castiel was introduced in season 4 and never meant to become a series regular. The popularity of Castiel among fans secured his place, and now he’s closing out the entire series eleven years later.
“You don't get into this line of work for job security and none of us ever expected to work on anything for this long,” Collins said. “I mean, it's not hyperbolic to say that it feels like a family. You know, we just all know each other so well and been through so much together. It's such a significant chunk of our lives. We haven't dreaded going to work. We really like the show and we like...
- 8/11/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Aug 5, 2019
We talked to the Supernatural cast and creators about which characters will be returning for Season 15.
Supernatural Season 15 is the last season to tell the rest of the Winchester’s epic story, and that’s a tall order to fill. How do you sum up 15 years worth of stories, character arcs, and adventures? One way is by true fan service: bringing back characters from the past.
Den of Geek was part of a group of reporters who had the chance to chat with the Supernatural cast and creators at this year's San Diego Comic Con last month. Producer Robert Berens, Jared Padalecki, and executive producer Andrew Dabb kept the cards close to their chest, but let a few details slip.
How do you wrap up 15 seasons of storytelling? Andrew Dabb stated cryptically: "In some ways, some old friends will come back and some ways some old enemies...
We talked to the Supernatural cast and creators about which characters will be returning for Season 15.
Supernatural Season 15 is the last season to tell the rest of the Winchester’s epic story, and that’s a tall order to fill. How do you sum up 15 years worth of stories, character arcs, and adventures? One way is by true fan service: bringing back characters from the past.
Den of Geek was part of a group of reporters who had the chance to chat with the Supernatural cast and creators at this year's San Diego Comic Con last month. Producer Robert Berens, Jared Padalecki, and executive producer Andrew Dabb kept the cards close to their chest, but let a few details slip.
How do you wrap up 15 seasons of storytelling? Andrew Dabb stated cryptically: "In some ways, some old friends will come back and some ways some old enemies...
- 8/5/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Jul 31, 2019
We look at how Dragonslayer by Duncan M Hamilton fits into the long-running fantasy subgenre involving dragons.
When Guillot is tasked with slaying the last of the dragons in Duncan M. Hamilton's Dragonslayer, the first in a planned fantasy trilogy, the character is way past his prime. All bets should be on the dragon, but a semblance of that knightly duty remains—even though Guillot struggles with alcoholism and is actively thwarted by someone high in power, there's tension in the narrative. Could Guillot actually win?
read more: Ruin of Kings is Must-Read Epic Fantasy
Knights and dragons -- it’s a tale as old as fiction and mythology. The traditional sort of dragon—winged, fire breathing—was popularized in the Middle Ages, the most famous story being St. George slaying the dragon. That story was immortalized in a Raphael painting, circa 1506, titled "Saint George and the Dragon,...
We look at how Dragonslayer by Duncan M Hamilton fits into the long-running fantasy subgenre involving dragons.
When Guillot is tasked with slaying the last of the dragons in Duncan M. Hamilton's Dragonslayer, the first in a planned fantasy trilogy, the character is way past his prime. All bets should be on the dragon, but a semblance of that knightly duty remains—even though Guillot struggles with alcoholism and is actively thwarted by someone high in power, there's tension in the narrative. Could Guillot actually win?
read more: Ruin of Kings is Must-Read Epic Fantasy
Knights and dragons -- it’s a tale as old as fiction and mythology. The traditional sort of dragon—winged, fire breathing—was popularized in the Middle Ages, the most famous story being St. George slaying the dragon. That story was immortalized in a Raphael painting, circa 1506, titled "Saint George and the Dragon,...
- 7/30/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Jul 25, 2019
We got some insights into the world of Dragonslayer from fantasy author Duncan M. Hamilton.
The first in a planned trilogy, Dragonslayer is the story of Guillot, a dragonslayer in a seemingly now-dragonless world.
Once a great swordfighter, following the death of his wife five years prior and feeling purposeless without, Gill has struggled with alcohol abuse and a purpose-less life. When a dragon—a species formerly thought extinct, begins terrorizing nearby towns—Gill is ordered by the king to slay it, unbeknownstly pulling him into a larger plot that could have repercussions across the entire kingdom.
read more: Ruin of Kings is Must-Read Epic Fantasy
We had the chance to chat with Hamilton about creating the world of Dragonslayer. Here's what he told us...
Den of Geek: In this novel, we get several chapters where we see from the dragon's point of view. Since discovering his mate and brood were killed,...
We got some insights into the world of Dragonslayer from fantasy author Duncan M. Hamilton.
The first in a planned trilogy, Dragonslayer is the story of Guillot, a dragonslayer in a seemingly now-dragonless world.
Once a great swordfighter, following the death of his wife five years prior and feeling purposeless without, Gill has struggled with alcohol abuse and a purpose-less life. When a dragon—a species formerly thought extinct, begins terrorizing nearby towns—Gill is ordered by the king to slay it, unbeknownstly pulling him into a larger plot that could have repercussions across the entire kingdom.
read more: Ruin of Kings is Must-Read Epic Fantasy
We had the chance to chat with Hamilton about creating the world of Dragonslayer. Here's what he told us...
Den of Geek: In this novel, we get several chapters where we see from the dragon's point of view. Since discovering his mate and brood were killed,...
- 7/25/2019
- Den of Geek
The Supernatural Season 14 finale leads the boys on a wild Jack chase and ends in a surprise reunion.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 20
The Supernatural Season 14 finale stars immediately where the last episode left off: Jack staring down the Winchesters after breaking free of the supposedly unbreakable box. The Winchesters and Cas scrape through this confrontation with only a few bumps and bruises, but the problem remains: What should they do about Jack? Visually, their discussion is framed in the foreground by the blasted open remains of the box. It’s a heavy visual reminder that their last foolproof plan was anything but.
Let’s not forget that Jack is only a couple of years old and being confronted with the reality of his loved ones lying to him hits him especially hard. He has major trust issues. He makes a simple choice, as any child might.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 20
The Supernatural Season 14 finale stars immediately where the last episode left off: Jack staring down the Winchesters after breaking free of the supposedly unbreakable box. The Winchesters and Cas scrape through this confrontation with only a few bumps and bruises, but the problem remains: What should they do about Jack? Visually, their discussion is framed in the foreground by the blasted open remains of the box. It’s a heavy visual reminder that their last foolproof plan was anything but.
Let’s not forget that Jack is only a couple of years old and being confronted with the reality of his loved ones lying to him hits him especially hard. He has major trust issues. He makes a simple choice, as any child might.
- 4/26/2019
- Den of Geek
Being torn in two directions may leave Jack between a rock and a hard place on Supernatural.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 19
Supernatural has often dealt with themes of familial obligation and choosing between good and evil. As characters are added to the show, such as Castiel or Mary, these themes are explored anew. These are universal stories, and when combined with the unlimited potential of supernatural creatures and parables from the Bible, they have gone far to provide multiple seasons’ worth of story arcs.
The aftermath of Mary’s death brings with it a tender funeral service, saying goodbye to the parent Sam and Dean barely had a chance to know before then. It’s punctuated by a creature getting axed in the head and a quick Au Bobby scene, but leads us right into the melodrama that is our Winchesters after a parent’s death.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 19
Supernatural has often dealt with themes of familial obligation and choosing between good and evil. As characters are added to the show, such as Castiel or Mary, these themes are explored anew. These are universal stories, and when combined with the unlimited potential of supernatural creatures and parables from the Bible, they have gone far to provide multiple seasons’ worth of story arcs.
The aftermath of Mary’s death brings with it a tender funeral service, saying goodbye to the parent Sam and Dean barely had a chance to know before then. It’s punctuated by a creature getting axed in the head and a quick Au Bobby scene, but leads us right into the melodrama that is our Winchesters after a parent’s death.
- 4/19/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Apr 15, 2019
In July, S.L. Huang's follow-up to near-future thriller Zero Sum Game will be out. We talked to the author about Null Set...
In Zero Sum Game, debut author, mathematician, and Hollywood stuntwoman S.L. Huang introduced us to the character of Cas Russell, a a "supernaturally mathematical retrieval specialist" who uses her math and combative skills to get the job done.
The very impressive Cas and the very impressive Huang are both back with Null Set, out in July, which follows Cas after the events of Zero Sum Game, as she continues to remember bits of her past, and works to keep her city safe following the fall of Pithica, an international conspiracy of telepathic murderers who had been keeping the world stable.
You can check out an exclusive excerpt from Null Set here.
We chatted to Huang about continuing Cas' journey, what it was like...
In July, S.L. Huang's follow-up to near-future thriller Zero Sum Game will be out. We talked to the author about Null Set...
In Zero Sum Game, debut author, mathematician, and Hollywood stuntwoman S.L. Huang introduced us to the character of Cas Russell, a a "supernaturally mathematical retrieval specialist" who uses her math and combative skills to get the job done.
The very impressive Cas and the very impressive Huang are both back with Null Set, out in July, which follows Cas after the events of Zero Sum Game, as she continues to remember bits of her past, and works to keep her city safe following the fall of Pithica, an international conspiracy of telepathic murderers who had been keeping the world stable.
You can check out an exclusive excerpt from Null Set here.
We chatted to Huang about continuing Cas' journey, what it was like...
- 4/15/2019
- Den of Geek
Jack searches for a solution to a big mistake while the Winchesters search for him on Supernatural season 14, episode 18, Absence.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 18
What do we do now? “We fight. We fight to bring them back.” Those words were Dean’s as the reality of Mary’s disappearance dawned on the boys and Cas early in Supernatural season 14, episode 18, "Absence." That outburst by Jack at the end of the last episode? Just as bad as it looked. And the episode was full of searching and hoping somehow the cards would fall into place and Mary could be brought back, like the Winchesters have done many times over. Main characters don’t have to die on this show. They just need a loophole.
A spooky atmosphere and music combine to make Sam and Dean’s search for Jack and Mary all the more worrisome. The structure...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 18
What do we do now? “We fight. We fight to bring them back.” Those words were Dean’s as the reality of Mary’s disappearance dawned on the boys and Cas early in Supernatural season 14, episode 18, "Absence." That outburst by Jack at the end of the last episode? Just as bad as it looked. And the episode was full of searching and hoping somehow the cards would fall into place and Mary could be brought back, like the Winchesters have done many times over. Main characters don’t have to die on this show. They just need a loophole.
A spooky atmosphere and music combine to make Sam and Dean’s search for Jack and Mary all the more worrisome. The structure...
- 4/12/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Apr 9, 2019
The story of Nona, the orphan-turned-nun trained for battle, comes to a climactic end in the final Book of the Ancestor.
This Holy Sister review contains spoilers for the previous Book of the Ancestor books, but only minor spoilers for the third book in the trilogy.
First off, if you haven’t read Red Sister or Grey Sister (the first two books in the Book of the Ancestor trilogy), you need to drop everything and read them now. This is my favorite series to come from this author so far. To put that in context, I have already read and loved Mark Lawrence's previous two series: The Broken Empire and The Red Queen’s War.
Here's what you may have missed: Nona was an orphan taken in by the Sweet Mercy convent as a child. The novices at the convent are trained in four different classes and...
The story of Nona, the orphan-turned-nun trained for battle, comes to a climactic end in the final Book of the Ancestor.
This Holy Sister review contains spoilers for the previous Book of the Ancestor books, but only minor spoilers for the third book in the trilogy.
First off, if you haven’t read Red Sister or Grey Sister (the first two books in the Book of the Ancestor trilogy), you need to drop everything and read them now. This is my favorite series to come from this author so far. To put that in context, I have already read and loved Mark Lawrence's previous two series: The Broken Empire and The Red Queen’s War.
Here's what you may have missed: Nona was an orphan taken in by the Sweet Mercy convent as a child. The novices at the convent are trained in four different classes and...
- 4/9/2019
- Den of Geek
On Supernatural Season 14, daddy issues and soul-seeking led to plenty of bloodshed.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 17
With an episode titled “Game Night” I thought we might actually see the game night unfold, wacky hijinks interrupting time to time but a moment of wholesomeness -- maybe akin to an old M*A*S*Hepisode. But this is Supernatural. We take our wholesome family moments with a heaping pile of gore and misery. So lets dive in.
The intro to this one is so jaunty. The scene opens on Donatello singing “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head” -- which can either seem goofy or sinister depending on what era you’re listening to that song in. When Nick breaks in and captures him, the actual recording of the song plays over the scene, as if mocking him for daring to have a quiet moment.
There’s a little...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 17
With an episode titled “Game Night” I thought we might actually see the game night unfold, wacky hijinks interrupting time to time but a moment of wholesomeness -- maybe akin to an old M*A*S*Hepisode. But this is Supernatural. We take our wholesome family moments with a heaping pile of gore and misery. So lets dive in.
The intro to this one is so jaunty. The scene opens on Donatello singing “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on my Head” -- which can either seem goofy or sinister depending on what era you’re listening to that song in. When Nick breaks in and captures him, the actual recording of the song plays over the scene, as if mocking him for daring to have a quiet moment.
There’s a little...
- 4/5/2019
- Den of Geek
Supernatural takes a look back at its monster myth while Jack learns how to make friends.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 16
In Season 14, Episode 16 “Don’t Go Into the Woods” Supernatural seems to take a page from an earlier chapter of its life, turning back to a traditional monster-eating-people-in-the-woods story.
When we started getting the setup for a Native American monster I thought immediately “Wendigo” but that’s a blast from the Supernatural past, and they decided to mine some more Native American folklore for a unique monster. A monster that originally wasn’t a monster. The origin story was sufficiently creepy enough, and I think I’m going to picture the monster’s human face far longer than the monster’s tree bark like creature form.
Meanwhile, our B story is about Jack on a shopping trip and meeting some new friends. I enjoyed the reintroduction...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 16
In Season 14, Episode 16 “Don’t Go Into the Woods” Supernatural seems to take a page from an earlier chapter of its life, turning back to a traditional monster-eating-people-in-the-woods story.
When we started getting the setup for a Native American monster I thought immediately “Wendigo” but that’s a blast from the Supernatural past, and they decided to mine some more Native American folklore for a unique monster. A monster that originally wasn’t a monster. The origin story was sufficiently creepy enough, and I think I’m going to picture the monster’s human face far longer than the monster’s tree bark like creature form.
Meanwhile, our B story is about Jack on a shopping trip and meeting some new friends. I enjoyed the reintroduction...
- 3/22/2019
- Den of Geek
On Supernatural this week, Sam wishes for a happier life, while Dean and Jack go on a soul searching trip.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14
Sam, unexpected yet talented leader to a pack of new hunters, is feeling a strong loss after Michael’s rampage through the bunker. Sam counts himself responsible, and the effects on his psyche are shown through violent flashes throughout the bunker, first empty and pristine, then blood soaked and strewn with familiar bodies.
To deal with this, Sam pulls a tactic out of Dean’s own playbook -- avoiding talking about the subject and burying himself in his work. Too bad his work often involves hunting unspeakable evil. It’s no wonder that an idyllic world appeals, and maybe Sam was reluctant to shake off the hypnotism that brought him into this Stepford-y reality.
With Sam and Cass as the buddy-cop duo, Cass...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14
Sam, unexpected yet talented leader to a pack of new hunters, is feeling a strong loss after Michael’s rampage through the bunker. Sam counts himself responsible, and the effects on his psyche are shown through violent flashes throughout the bunker, first empty and pristine, then blood soaked and strewn with familiar bodies.
To deal with this, Sam pulls a tactic out of Dean’s own playbook -- avoiding talking about the subject and burying himself in his work. Too bad his work often involves hunting unspeakable evil. It’s no wonder that an idyllic world appeals, and maybe Sam was reluctant to shake off the hypnotism that brought him into this Stepford-y reality.
With Sam and Cass as the buddy-cop duo, Cass...
- 3/15/2019
- Den of Geek
A fix to the Michael problem leads to even bigger consequences and a tearful reunion in Supernatural's 300th episode. Our review...
TV
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 13
I have so many feelings.
The heart and soul of Supernatural is not hunting monsters, it’s not hilarious moments or insane cliffhangers. The heart and soul has always been at the center of the family business -- the family itself.
The importance of family resurfaces time and time again, as Sam and Dean adopt new people into their circle as brothers and sisters in arms. As two perpetually lonely and love-cursed individuals, family has always been important to the Winchesters and always will be.
But one thing the fans have been waiting on for eons has been the return of John Winchester. John’s epic return echoes another character entry into Supernatural -- namely when Dean stalks through...
TV
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 13
I have so many feelings.
The heart and soul of Supernatural is not hunting monsters, it’s not hilarious moments or insane cliffhangers. The heart and soul has always been at the center of the family business -- the family itself.
The importance of family resurfaces time and time again, as Sam and Dean adopt new people into their circle as brothers and sisters in arms. As two perpetually lonely and love-cursed individuals, family has always been important to the Winchesters and always will be.
But one thing the fans have been waiting on for eons has been the return of John Winchester. John’s epic return echoes another character entry into Supernatural -- namely when Dean stalks through...
- 2/7/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Feb 7, 2019
We speak with Supernatural showrunner Andrew Dabb about making it to the 300th episode and the return of a very special actor.
Supernatural premiered in 2005 as a show about two brothers who grew up hunting evil. As adults, they reunite in order to save their dad who went away on a hunting trip and never came back. Fourteen years later, and our Winchesters are tested to their furthest limits. They’ve faced monsters thought unheard of, done battle with demons and angels alike, and even had a heart-to-heart with God. The longest running American sci-fi/fantasy series has come so far from just a traveling monster hunt show, which, if we’re being honest, it never really was at its core.
The heart and soul of the show has always been family. The search for John Winchester, the vengeance for Mary Winchester, and Dean and Sam constantly...
We speak with Supernatural showrunner Andrew Dabb about making it to the 300th episode and the return of a very special actor.
Supernatural premiered in 2005 as a show about two brothers who grew up hunting evil. As adults, they reunite in order to save their dad who went away on a hunting trip and never came back. Fourteen years later, and our Winchesters are tested to their furthest limits. They’ve faced monsters thought unheard of, done battle with demons and angels alike, and even had a heart-to-heart with God. The longest running American sci-fi/fantasy series has come so far from just a traveling monster hunt show, which, if we’re being honest, it never really was at its core.
The heart and soul of the show has always been family. The search for John Winchester, the vengeance for Mary Winchester, and Dean and Sam constantly...
- 2/7/2019
- Den of Geek
Sam and Dean deal with the plan to trap Michael in different ways while hunting down a prophet wanna-be in the latest Supernatural.
This reviewer doesn’t know if androids dream of electric sheep; however, Dean Winchester dreams of being locked in a forever cage in the depths of the ocean. The claustrophobia of that opening scene alone was enough to give me the willies. It also puts a dab of extra terror into Dean’s plan to put Michael -- and himself -- in an undersea death trap.
It’s also very fitting in this episode of Supernatural that drowning is a bit of a theme in the case the Winchesters investigate -- one of the victims was even drowned in salt water. Couple that with what’s going on with the prophet Donatello’s coma and we’ve got lots of things poking at Dean’s plan. Donatello...
This reviewer doesn’t know if androids dream of electric sheep; however, Dean Winchester dreams of being locked in a forever cage in the depths of the ocean. The claustrophobia of that opening scene alone was enough to give me the willies. It also puts a dab of extra terror into Dean’s plan to put Michael -- and himself -- in an undersea death trap.
It’s also very fitting in this episode of Supernatural that drowning is a bit of a theme in the case the Winchesters investigate -- one of the victims was even drowned in salt water. Couple that with what’s going on with the prophet Donatello’s coma and we’ve got lots of things poking at Dean’s plan. Donatello...
- 2/1/2019
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Jan 25, 2019
Eight years after the last book in the Inheritance Cycle series, Christopher Paolini publishes a new short story collection.
I had a thought last year-- what has Christopher Paolini, author of the Inheritance Cycle series, been up to lately? A quick Google search told me nada. Then, at the very end of last year came a collection of short stories, set in the world of Alagaesia and a brief look at what our main character Eragon was up to, as well as telling some new stories set in that world.
It’s important to understand going in that this isn’t a singular story, and shouldn’t be held to the standards of holding up as a true sequel to the conclusion of the Inheritance Cycle. Holding it to such standards would leave the reader wanting much more from this, rather than enjoying the simple ride this collection presents.
Eight years after the last book in the Inheritance Cycle series, Christopher Paolini publishes a new short story collection.
I had a thought last year-- what has Christopher Paolini, author of the Inheritance Cycle series, been up to lately? A quick Google search told me nada. Then, at the very end of last year came a collection of short stories, set in the world of Alagaesia and a brief look at what our main character Eragon was up to, as well as telling some new stories set in that world.
It’s important to understand going in that this isn’t a singular story, and shouldn’t be held to the standards of holding up as a true sequel to the conclusion of the Inheritance Cycle. Holding it to such standards would leave the reader wanting much more from this, rather than enjoying the simple ride this collection presents.
- 1/25/2019
- Den of Geek
In Supernatural's "Damaged Goods," Nick goes to Hibbing for a lead on his personal demon. Meanwhile Dean has a secret project.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14, Episode 11
The stage was set for a confrontation in Hibbing between Nick and our hunters. Meanwhile, Dean happens to have been in town for his farewell tour, and Mary and Sam finally get to see what Dean has decided to do about his Michael problem.
Nick, bless him, is acting more and more like a serial killer. I can’t get over what a fantastic choice Mark Pellegrino has been for this role. He’s portrayed this character as heartbroken, Devilish, jokey, and sympathetic. The writers took the time to build Nick up as a sympathetic character, allowing us to feel for him and wish he could be redeemed.
Nick’s search for answers in the murders of his family has led...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14, Episode 11
The stage was set for a confrontation in Hibbing between Nick and our hunters. Meanwhile, Dean happens to have been in town for his farewell tour, and Mary and Sam finally get to see what Dean has decided to do about his Michael problem.
Nick, bless him, is acting more and more like a serial killer. I can’t get over what a fantastic choice Mark Pellegrino has been for this role. He’s portrayed this character as heartbroken, Devilish, jokey, and sympathetic. The writers took the time to build Nick up as a sympathetic character, allowing us to feel for him and wish he could be redeemed.
Nick’s search for answers in the murders of his family has led...
- 1/25/2019
- Den of Geek
The Supernatural mid-season return finds Dean facing an internal battle with Michael.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 10
Returning from such a big mid-season finale primed Supernatural fans to expect a bombastic mid-season opener. Surely explosions, death-defying feats, and certain doom from the likes of Michael-Dean were to follow. When the episode opened on a folksy bar scene, resplendent with its wholesome Marshall Tucker music playing in the background that we were thrown for a loop.
Truthfully, it’s Dean who was in a loop -- Michael stuck Dean in a happy scenario where Dean owns a bar staffed by the currently dead psychic Pamela. Michael kept the scenario real enough for Dean by throwing in a few monsters to slay, but other than that, it’s all sunshine and “Searchin’ for a Rainbow.”
The bar scene poses an interesting set, and that’s partly from how it...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 10
Returning from such a big mid-season finale primed Supernatural fans to expect a bombastic mid-season opener. Surely explosions, death-defying feats, and certain doom from the likes of Michael-Dean were to follow. When the episode opened on a folksy bar scene, resplendent with its wholesome Marshall Tucker music playing in the background that we were thrown for a loop.
Truthfully, it’s Dean who was in a loop -- Michael stuck Dean in a happy scenario where Dean owns a bar staffed by the currently dead psychic Pamela. Michael kept the scenario real enough for Dean by throwing in a few monsters to slay, but other than that, it’s all sunshine and “Searchin’ for a Rainbow.”
The bar scene poses an interesting set, and that’s partly from how it...
- 1/18/2019
- Den of Geek
The mid-season finale brings the Winchesters in a direct face-to-face confrontation with Michael and his nefarious new plan.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 9
This mid-season finale starts feeling like a slow burn, bringing together various elements introduced in previous episodes and tying them back with the expected confrontation with Michael. Jack is still dealing with the anxiety of having been brought back to life, while Cas continues to hold his deal with The Empty secret. This episode wraps up the previous eight episodes nicely...in a package that contains an unavoidable destiny.
There are a couple of light moments that kept the episode from being too gloomy. Ketch’s video call about sending the weapon the boys need via mail (“but I paid extra!”) being met with derision was enjoyably naive. This was not the kind of faux pas I expected from this British Man of Letters,...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 9
This mid-season finale starts feeling like a slow burn, bringing together various elements introduced in previous episodes and tying them back with the expected confrontation with Michael. Jack is still dealing with the anxiety of having been brought back to life, while Cas continues to hold his deal with The Empty secret. This episode wraps up the previous eight episodes nicely...in a package that contains an unavoidable destiny.
There are a couple of light moments that kept the episode from being too gloomy. Ketch’s video call about sending the weapon the boys need via mail (“but I paid extra!”) being met with derision was enjoyably naive. This was not the kind of faux pas I expected from this British Man of Letters,...
- 12/14/2018
- Den of Geek
Themes of sacrifice and family reunions abound on Supernatural this week.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 8
A subdued beginning to this week’s episode brings about the demise of Jack. As sad as this is, we know this isn’t the end for his character. What show are we watching again? Oh right, the one where people come back from the dead like all the time. But at the same time it’s important to see how each character reacts to this death in his or her own way.
The Winchesters and Cas drink, mourn, try and fail to build a Hunter’s pyre, and tell each other stories. But Dean caps it all off by saying, “We did everything we could, right?” The next morning we are reintroduced to Lily Sunder, the angel killing badass from the olden days who is not looking so young anymore.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 8
A subdued beginning to this week’s episode brings about the demise of Jack. As sad as this is, we know this isn’t the end for his character. What show are we watching again? Oh right, the one where people come back from the dead like all the time. But at the same time it’s important to see how each character reacts to this death in his or her own way.
The Winchesters and Cas drink, mourn, try and fail to build a Hunter’s pyre, and tell each other stories. But Dean caps it all off by saying, “We did everything we could, right?” The next morning we are reintroduced to Lily Sunder, the angel killing badass from the olden days who is not looking so young anymore.
- 12/7/2018
- Den of Geek
Faced with Jack’s impending mortality, Dean takes the kid for a bucket list trip while Cas seeks help..
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 7
Jack is officially terminally ill, and as Cas and Sam struggle to find answers, Dean brings the kid on a short road trip to check out some of the life he’s been missing. It’s a mix of tones in this episode, from outright humor to mellow sadness. It’s also an episode that brings Jack’s health one step forward and two steps back.
When Cas’s healing touch doesn’t work, the Winchesters decide to bring Jack to a normal, everyday hospital. Checking Jack into the hospital led to some humorous moments when reception asked basic questions. Date of birth? Um, two years ago? Father? Devil, deceased, exploded. Of course the hospital didn’t work out, so the boys brought Jack home.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 7
Jack is officially terminally ill, and as Cas and Sam struggle to find answers, Dean brings the kid on a short road trip to check out some of the life he’s been missing. It’s a mix of tones in this episode, from outright humor to mellow sadness. It’s also an episode that brings Jack’s health one step forward and two steps back.
When Cas’s healing touch doesn’t work, the Winchesters decide to bring Jack to a normal, everyday hospital. Checking Jack into the hospital led to some humorous moments when reception asked basic questions. Date of birth? Um, two years ago? Father? Devil, deceased, exploded. Of course the hospital didn’t work out, so the boys brought Jack home.
- 11/30/2018
- Den of Geek
A decidedly more chipper episode of Supernatural includes a zombie boyfriend and a bug monster.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14
“Optimism” is a quirky story about the lovelorn librarian and her dead beau, and it only fits that the tone of the episode reflects that quirkiness. Lots of fun humor, underscored with lighthearted music, and brighter-lit scenes contribute to that tone. It’s refreshing to have a light episode here and there. It breaks up the tension, can deviate from the main story arc while exploring some new territory.
We’ve gotten some really fabulous episodes that way, which defined new ways of telling a story in a show that’s been around the block “Optimism” doesn’t break too many boundaries, but I appreciate the effort.
Much of that humor stems from Jack being so green at his job. Jack was ready for a hunt. The kid...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14
“Optimism” is a quirky story about the lovelorn librarian and her dead beau, and it only fits that the tone of the episode reflects that quirkiness. Lots of fun humor, underscored with lighthearted music, and brighter-lit scenes contribute to that tone. It’s refreshing to have a light episode here and there. It breaks up the tension, can deviate from the main story arc while exploring some new territory.
We’ve gotten some really fabulous episodes that way, which defined new ways of telling a story in a show that’s been around the block “Optimism” doesn’t break too many boundaries, but I appreciate the effort.
Much of that humor stems from Jack being so green at his job. Jack was ready for a hunt. The kid...
- 11/16/2018
- Den of Geek
The hunters become the hunted when a familiar monster changes its modus operandi.
TV
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 5
This week, the Winchesters faced down with a familiar monster, a Djinn, who has changed its method of attack after intervention from Michael. It’s a great way to tie in what horrors Michael has committed to create new monsters without being a Michael-centric episode.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Supernatural is a show about people hunting monsters. Did you notice, however, how important its themes of family are?
One of the most famous series quotes is: “Saving people, hunting people, the family business.” Who knew the emphasis was always on the last part? Hunting is a family legacy. Having Mary and Bobby re-introduced has reinforced that theme, but so does the connection built between the alternate universe survivors and our main characters.
TV
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 5
This week, the Winchesters faced down with a familiar monster, a Djinn, who has changed its method of attack after intervention from Michael. It’s a great way to tie in what horrors Michael has committed to create new monsters without being a Michael-centric episode.
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Supernatural is a show about people hunting monsters. Did you notice, however, how important its themes of family are?
One of the most famous series quotes is: “Saving people, hunting people, the family business.” Who knew the emphasis was always on the last part? Hunting is a family legacy. Having Mary and Bobby re-introduced has reinforced that theme, but so does the connection built between the alternate universe survivors and our main characters.
- 11/9/2018
- Den of Geek
A classic slasher movie and loving homage to horror and geekdom begins in a haunted comic book shop on Supernatural
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 4
The fourth episode of Supernatural Season 14 brings us a lot of laughs with hilarious nods and homages to classic horror. Does it advance the season arc? Hardly. But it gives us a fun episode perfect for the day after Halloween.
We’ve had geek-pandering moments, fandom baiting, and homages in Supernatural before, but “Mint Condition” is the most homage-y, most nerd-inspired episode yet. Sure, it might have been a bit much at moments with all the nerdy references, but I loved it.
At the comic shop is a Red Hood standie that Sam made a funny face at. It’s funny if you understand the connection. Jensen provided the voice for the character in the animated Batman: Under the Red Hood. Not only that,...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 4
The fourth episode of Supernatural Season 14 brings us a lot of laughs with hilarious nods and homages to classic horror. Does it advance the season arc? Hardly. But it gives us a fun episode perfect for the day after Halloween.
We’ve had geek-pandering moments, fandom baiting, and homages in Supernatural before, but “Mint Condition” is the most homage-y, most nerd-inspired episode yet. Sure, it might have been a bit much at moments with all the nerdy references, but I loved it.
At the comic shop is a Red Hood standie that Sam made a funny face at. It’s funny if you understand the connection. Jensen provided the voice for the character in the animated Batman: Under the Red Hood. Not only that,...
- 11/2/2018
- Den of Geek
A search for a Michael-killing weapon, a visit to Sioux Falls and a side story of a witch conspire to make an unsurprising Supernatural.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 3
Now that the Winchesters are back together, it’s time for a good ol’ fashioned hunt. And by that, I mean, not that. Not that at all. This isn’t so much a hunt as it is a search for a weapon to kill Michael. The source lies with a hood-wearing assassin from another realm who ties up a loose end left hanging by the absence of Wayward Sister’s demise.
Our main storyline piggybacks off the cliffhanger set up by the Wayward Sisters backdoor pilot. Since the spinoff show was never greenlit, it looks like we’ll only see the aftermath here. The Kaia from the Bad Place is set up as the main villain, though it...
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 3
Now that the Winchesters are back together, it’s time for a good ol’ fashioned hunt. And by that, I mean, not that. Not that at all. This isn’t so much a hunt as it is a search for a weapon to kill Michael. The source lies with a hood-wearing assassin from another realm who ties up a loose end left hanging by the absence of Wayward Sister’s demise.
Our main storyline piggybacks off the cliffhanger set up by the Wayward Sisters backdoor pilot. Since the spinoff show was never greenlit, it looks like we’ll only see the aftermath here. The Kaia from the Bad Place is set up as the main villain, though it...
- 10/26/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 15, 2018
The Rift Uprising series offsets its somewhat tired love triangle with enough action-y sci-fi thrills to make this an enjoyable ride.
Warning: This Rift Uprising series review contains spoilers for the series.
Genetically-enhanced teenaged super soldiers, forbidden love, and a conspiracy spanning multiple worlds form the framework of Amy S. Foster's Rift Uprising series. The latest in the series, Rift Coda has just been published, so maybe you'd like to know what you're getting into before taking the plunge.
Keep in mind: this will be spoilery (though I'll try to avoid the worst so you can still enjoy some revelations). The first book will be heavily spoiled since I can't discuss the other two without mentioning those plot developments.
Rift Uprising
In Rift Uprising, we are introduced to Ryn Whittaker and her squad of teenage soldiers called Citadels. They are part of Arc, a program that...
The Rift Uprising series offsets its somewhat tired love triangle with enough action-y sci-fi thrills to make this an enjoyable ride.
Warning: This Rift Uprising series review contains spoilers for the series.
Genetically-enhanced teenaged super soldiers, forbidden love, and a conspiracy spanning multiple worlds form the framework of Amy S. Foster's Rift Uprising series. The latest in the series, Rift Coda has just been published, so maybe you'd like to know what you're getting into before taking the plunge.
Keep in mind: this will be spoilery (though I'll try to avoid the worst so you can still enjoy some revelations). The first book will be heavily spoiled since I can't discuss the other two without mentioning those plot developments.
Rift Uprising
In Rift Uprising, we are introduced to Ryn Whittaker and her squad of teenage soldiers called Citadels. They are part of Arc, a program that...
- 10/15/2018
- Den of Geek
Fourteen seasons and going strong, Supernatural proves it still has tricks up its sleeves.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 1
Supernatural premiered its fourteenth season by lobbing emotional curveballs at every turn and showing us just how this show can keep going long after other series have burned out. The ability to adapt is what I attribute to the longevity. Here again, we have a big opener of a premiere, and the usual story beats are used only to setup some misdirection.
I’m talking of course about Kipling -- not the author of The Jungle Book, but yet another power hungry demon seeking to fill the vacant King of Hell seat. I was concerned that he would be another villain for the season, and being that we’ve seen many demons vying for this seat, I wasn’t exactly overwhelmed. I mean, once you lost the O.
This Supernatural review contains spoilers.
Supernatural Season 14 Episode 1
Supernatural premiered its fourteenth season by lobbing emotional curveballs at every turn and showing us just how this show can keep going long after other series have burned out. The ability to adapt is what I attribute to the longevity. Here again, we have a big opener of a premiere, and the usual story beats are used only to setup some misdirection.
I’m talking of course about Kipling -- not the author of The Jungle Book, but yet another power hungry demon seeking to fill the vacant King of Hell seat. I was concerned that he would be another villain for the season, and being that we’ve seen many demons vying for this seat, I wasn’t exactly overwhelmed. I mean, once you lost the O.
- 10/12/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 3, 2018
We talked to debut author S.L. Huang about her speculative fiction thriller Zero Sum Game.
Warning: This inteview contains spoilers for Zero Sum Game.
Zero Sum Game by S. L. Huang follows mercenary Cas Russell who has incredible math and combative skills. She can calculate how and where to punch someone for maximum efficacy, or she can do a sweet 360 slide into parallel parking with a stolen car. The possibilities are just about endless... Until, of course, she faces up against a terrifyingly effective psychic and a secret organization.
Read our full review of Zero Sum Game here.
Den of Geek had the chance to chat with real-life mathematician and badass S.L. Huang about crafting the world for Zero Sum Game.
Den of Geek: I was checking out your bio and I saw that you’re basically a badass in real life. I just think...
We talked to debut author S.L. Huang about her speculative fiction thriller Zero Sum Game.
Warning: This inteview contains spoilers for Zero Sum Game.
Zero Sum Game by S. L. Huang follows mercenary Cas Russell who has incredible math and combative skills. She can calculate how and where to punch someone for maximum efficacy, or she can do a sweet 360 slide into parallel parking with a stolen car. The possibilities are just about endless... Until, of course, she faces up against a terrifyingly effective psychic and a secret organization.
Read our full review of Zero Sum Game here.
Den of Geek had the chance to chat with real-life mathematician and badass S.L. Huang about crafting the world for Zero Sum Game.
Den of Geek: I was checking out your bio and I saw that you’re basically a badass in real life. I just think...
- 10/3/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 2, 2018
What do you get when you add one math genius combatant, an ex-cop seeking the truth, and a shady organization?
Zero Sum Game protagonist Cas Russell is what you might call a specialist in retrieval, among other things. She’s really good at what she does, quick with a firearm and has enough moral gray to knock people out left and right. But what really sets her apart from other action anti-heroes is her brain.
Cas can make incredible, complicated mathematical calculations in her head, enough to figure the trajectory of a rock thrown to bounce off something and incapacitate an enemy, or to—most impressively—navigate the L.A. traffic. Jokes aside, her math-based skills make her a deadly foe to anyone who stands in the way of her latest job: rescuing a girl held by the Mexican cartel.
Debut author S. L. Huang wrote a...
What do you get when you add one math genius combatant, an ex-cop seeking the truth, and a shady organization?
Zero Sum Game protagonist Cas Russell is what you might call a specialist in retrieval, among other things. She’s really good at what she does, quick with a firearm and has enough moral gray to knock people out left and right. But what really sets her apart from other action anti-heroes is her brain.
Cas can make incredible, complicated mathematical calculations in her head, enough to figure the trajectory of a rock thrown to bounce off something and incapacitate an enemy, or to—most impressively—navigate the L.A. traffic. Jokes aside, her math-based skills make her a deadly foe to anyone who stands in the way of her latest job: rescuing a girl held by the Mexican cartel.
Debut author S. L. Huang wrote a...
- 10/2/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Feb 9, 2018
Characters old and new strike bargains and uneasy alliances in the latest Supernatural season 13 episode...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Willy Wonka: new movie will not adapt any of the books, origin beats confirmed
13.13 Devil's Bargain
What do you get when you mix the Prince of Darkness, a faith healer, the new King of Hell, and an overworked prophet? A pretty damn good episode of Supernatural, that's what.
There was development on the Lucifer angle here. We're still not getting anywhere on the Where is Jack/Mom story, but at least we got this. And Mark Pellegrino continues to steal every scene he's a part of.
As usual, Lucifer handled the one-liners with ease. “What are you gawking at, you never seen the Prince of Darkness before?” he angrily says as he walks through a town nearly defeated. Lucifer's power level has dropped so low that...
Characters old and new strike bargains and uneasy alliances in the latest Supernatural season 13 episode...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Willy Wonka: new movie will not adapt any of the books, origin beats confirmed
13.13 Devil's Bargain
What do you get when you mix the Prince of Darkness, a faith healer, the new King of Hell, and an overworked prophet? A pretty damn good episode of Supernatural, that's what.
There was development on the Lucifer angle here. We're still not getting anywhere on the Where is Jack/Mom story, but at least we got this. And Mark Pellegrino continues to steal every scene he's a part of.
As usual, Lucifer handled the one-liners with ease. “What are you gawking at, you never seen the Prince of Darkness before?” he angrily says as he walks through a town nearly defeated. Lucifer's power level has dropped so low that...
- 2/9/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Jan 26, 2018
Supernatural season 13 delivers a subdued, serious story that leaves physical and emotional scars on its characters. Spoilers ahead...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Ant-Man review
13.11 Breakdown
After last week's backdoor pilot episode, we were treated to some more Sheriff Donna action, though in a more muted tone. Donna gets the boys involved in her niece's missing person case. It's not your typical case. In fact, the way the writers incorporated the supernatural element here was really unique, and added to the fresh nature of this episode.
There were a number of elements that contributed to that fresh take. At the outset, we have a Sheriff Donna who is not her bubbly, comedic self. The personal nature of her niece Wendy being abducted was enough to keep Donna in business mode. We see a side of Donna we don't usually see when she's in the interrogation room with a suspect.
Supernatural season 13 delivers a subdued, serious story that leaves physical and emotional scars on its characters. Spoilers ahead...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Ant-Man review
13.11 Breakdown
After last week's backdoor pilot episode, we were treated to some more Sheriff Donna action, though in a more muted tone. Donna gets the boys involved in her niece's missing person case. It's not your typical case. In fact, the way the writers incorporated the supernatural element here was really unique, and added to the fresh nature of this episode.
There were a number of elements that contributed to that fresh take. At the outset, we have a Sheriff Donna who is not her bubbly, comedic self. The personal nature of her niece Wendy being abducted was enough to keep Donna in business mode. We see a side of Donna we don't usually see when she's in the interrogation room with a suspect.
- 1/26/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Jan 19, 2018
Supernatural sets us up for the Wayward Sisters spinoff in an excellent episode! Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Hard Sun episode 2 review Hard Sun episode 1 review 28 British TV dramas to watch in 2018
13.10 Wayward Sisters
Girl power is the theme in Supernatural's return after the mid-season break. Combining some of the greatest recurring guest stars was a great way to show off that power.
As you probably already know, Wayward Sisters was the backdoor pilot into the spinoff show of the same name. Thank God it wasn't another Bloodlines.
The episode connected the Jody Mills foster family with the likes of Sheriff Donna Hanscum and Patience Turner. Dreamwalker Kaia Nieves also played an integral part, as she should since she's the one who sent the boys into their alternate world journey.
So what made Wayward Sisters better than Bloodlines, the other...
Supernatural sets us up for the Wayward Sisters spinoff in an excellent episode! Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Hard Sun episode 2 review Hard Sun episode 1 review 28 British TV dramas to watch in 2018
13.10 Wayward Sisters
Girl power is the theme in Supernatural's return after the mid-season break. Combining some of the greatest recurring guest stars was a great way to show off that power.
As you probably already know, Wayward Sisters was the backdoor pilot into the spinoff show of the same name. Thank God it wasn't another Bloodlines.
The episode connected the Jody Mills foster family with the likes of Sheriff Donna Hanscum and Patience Turner. Dreamwalker Kaia Nieves also played an integral part, as she should since she's the one who sent the boys into their alternate world journey.
So what made Wayward Sisters better than Bloodlines, the other...
- 1/19/2018
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Dec 8, 2017
The midseason finale of Supernatural ends at a perfect, cinematic moment that had us on the edge of our seats! Spoilers...
This review contains spoilers.
See related The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 9 review: The Bitcoin Entanglement The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 8 review: The Tesla Recoil The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 7 review: The Geology Methodology
13.9 The Bad Place
It’s the mid-season finale, and Supernatural did not hold anything back.
This was a great way to go into a long break—with fans wanting more. Not only did we finally reunite Jack and the Winchesters, but the episode simply had beautiful cinematography. A lot of care was put into the visuals of this episode, so I’m going to share what I noticed.
How do you keep a fresh visual style in a long-running show? You mix it up. In this episode, we saw some...
The midseason finale of Supernatural ends at a perfect, cinematic moment that had us on the edge of our seats! Spoilers...
This review contains spoilers.
See related The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 9 review: The Bitcoin Entanglement The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 8 review: The Tesla Recoil The Big Bang Theory season 11 episode 7 review: The Geology Methodology
13.9 The Bad Place
It’s the mid-season finale, and Supernatural did not hold anything back.
This was a great way to go into a long break—with fans wanting more. Not only did we finally reunite Jack and the Winchesters, but the episode simply had beautiful cinematography. A lot of care was put into the visuals of this episode, so I’m going to share what I noticed.
How do you keep a fresh visual style in a long-running show? You mix it up. In this episode, we saw some...
- 12/8/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 24, 2017
An episode of unexpected reunions pits everyone – Heaven, Hell, hunters and alternate Earth – against each other. Spoilers ahead...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Black Mirror series 3 review Black Mirror series 3 interview: Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones How Black Mirror series 3 is eerily coming true
13.7 War Of The Worlds
This season's episodes like to start going in one direction and then take a left turn. This is a compliment, being that I felt I had the Supernatural formula down pat. A little surprise goes a long way when you're this deep into a show's mythology.
Asmodeus' character is finally more developed in this episode, where he got a few scenes to sink his teeth into. The fourth and final Knight of Hell is one personified by a suave, charming and gentile Southerner, complete with drawl and all. His plantation owner's suit is out of touch with the times,...
An episode of unexpected reunions pits everyone – Heaven, Hell, hunters and alternate Earth – against each other. Spoilers ahead...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Black Mirror series 3 review Black Mirror series 3 interview: Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones How Black Mirror series 3 is eerily coming true
13.7 War Of The Worlds
This season's episodes like to start going in one direction and then take a left turn. This is a compliment, being that I felt I had the Supernatural formula down pat. A little surprise goes a long way when you're this deep into a show's mythology.
Asmodeus' character is finally more developed in this episode, where he got a few scenes to sink his teeth into. The fourth and final Knight of Hell is one personified by a suave, charming and gentile Southerner, complete with drawl and all. His plantation owner's suit is out of touch with the times,...
- 11/24/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 20, 2017
The dead are rising in Dodge City Kansas, but that doesn't mean Dean can't enjoy geeking out over cowboys...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Toy Story 4: what can we expect? Incredibles 2 dated for 2019, Toy Story 4 moves back a year
13.6 Tombstone
It's the episode that both Dean and Jensen were waiting for, since they're both avid western fans. We see Dean relishing in his knowledge of cowboys and outlaws as soon as the guys check into their Wild West-themed hotel. That cowboy love is put to good use when Dean recognises their monster as Dave Mather, a Wild West outlaw and gunslinger for the Dodge City gang.
This isn't the first episode where Dean was able to embrace some western culture. In the season six episode Frontierland Dean travelled back in time and relished in the whole experience. Plus, it's no secret that...
The dead are rising in Dodge City Kansas, but that doesn't mean Dean can't enjoy geeking out over cowboys...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Toy Story 4: what can we expect? Incredibles 2 dated for 2019, Toy Story 4 moves back a year
13.6 Tombstone
It's the episode that both Dean and Jensen were waiting for, since they're both avid western fans. We see Dean relishing in his knowledge of cowboys and outlaws as soon as the guys check into their Wild West-themed hotel. That cowboy love is put to good use when Dean recognises their monster as Dave Mather, a Wild West outlaw and gunslinger for the Dodge City gang.
This isn't the first episode where Dean was able to embrace some western culture. In the season six episode Frontierland Dean travelled back in time and relished in the whole experience. Plus, it's no secret that...
- 11/18/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 10, 2017
In what should be a routine case, Dean learns more about the afterlife through an unexpected reunion on Supernatural. Spoilers...
This review contains spoilers.
See related 26 new TV shows to watch in 2017
13.5 Advanced Thanatology
Advanced Thanatology starts off on a light note, with Sam doing things to make Dean happy. After all the troubles Dean has been through, Sam tries to make things easier on his big brother, which leads to some overindulgence and a hangover-fueled continental breakfast. There's all these amusing little moments between them that can get lost if you're not paying attention. One such moment is when Sam is talking to Dean outside the hotel, and Dean walks away and impatiently waves his arms in front of a not-automatic door. Might seem trivial, but that gesture says a lot more about what Dean is feeling than by what he tells his brother.
Those fun...
In what should be a routine case, Dean learns more about the afterlife through an unexpected reunion on Supernatural. Spoilers...
This review contains spoilers.
See related 26 new TV shows to watch in 2017
13.5 Advanced Thanatology
Advanced Thanatology starts off on a light note, with Sam doing things to make Dean happy. After all the troubles Dean has been through, Sam tries to make things easier on his big brother, which leads to some overindulgence and a hangover-fueled continental breakfast. There's all these amusing little moments between them that can get lost if you're not paying attention. One such moment is when Sam is talking to Dean outside the hotel, and Dean walks away and impatiently waves his arms in front of a not-automatic door. Might seem trivial, but that gesture says a lot more about what Dean is feeling than by what he tells his brother.
Those fun...
- 11/10/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 3, 2017
A classic monster returns in a fun, well-structured episode of Supernatural. Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related DC Comics movies: upcoming UK release dates calendar Batman V Superman: where does it leave the Justice League? Batman V Superman: Michael Shannon fell asleep watching it Zack Snyder interview: Batman V Superman
13.4 The Big Empty
Things are getting to a boiling point between the brothers and Jack, so it was about time for a little self-help. Meanwhile, Cass finds himself in a weird plane of nothing, but he’s not exactly alone.
I do enjoy when the writers bring back a classic monster and find a way to make it fresh. This week’s was a return to the Shapeshifter, those creepy monsters who can shed their skin to become any person they wish. The main shifter the Winchesters meet in this episode is not some vicious killer,...
A classic monster returns in a fun, well-structured episode of Supernatural. Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related DC Comics movies: upcoming UK release dates calendar Batman V Superman: where does it leave the Justice League? Batman V Superman: Michael Shannon fell asleep watching it Zack Snyder interview: Batman V Superman
13.4 The Big Empty
Things are getting to a boiling point between the brothers and Jack, so it was about time for a little self-help. Meanwhile, Cass finds himself in a weird plane of nothing, but he’s not exactly alone.
I do enjoy when the writers bring back a classic monster and find a way to make it fresh. This week’s was a return to the Shapeshifter, those creepy monsters who can shed their skin to become any person they wish. The main shifter the Winchesters meet in this episode is not some vicious killer,...
- 11/3/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 20, 2017
Season 13's second episode slows things down while developing new plot threads and characters. Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Supergirl season 3 episode 2 review: Triggers Supergirl season 3 episode 1 review: Girl Of Steel Supergirl season 2 recap
13.2 The Rising Son
The second episode of season thirteen took things at a little slower pace, giving us a look at Jack’s development while also teasing us about Mary and Lucifer’s interaction in the alternate reality.
Jack is going to be an interesting yet challenging character to develop throughout this season. His parentage is certainly unique. Jack’s seemingly unlimited range of power will certainly be difficult to tackle and keep the audience interested if his character isn’t developed, and luckily it seems we’re getting that development as we travel from episode to episode.
We see glimpses of his personality, from unapologetically loving...
Season 13's second episode slows things down while developing new plot threads and characters. Spoilers ahead in our review...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Supergirl season 3 episode 2 review: Triggers Supergirl season 3 episode 1 review: Girl Of Steel Supergirl season 2 recap
13.2 The Rising Son
The second episode of season thirteen took things at a little slower pace, giving us a look at Jack’s development while also teasing us about Mary and Lucifer’s interaction in the alternate reality.
Jack is going to be an interesting yet challenging character to develop throughout this season. His parentage is certainly unique. Jack’s seemingly unlimited range of power will certainly be difficult to tackle and keep the audience interested if his character isn’t developed, and luckily it seems we’re getting that development as we travel from episode to episode.
We see glimpses of his personality, from unapologetically loving...
- 10/20/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Oct 13, 2017
Sam and Dean pick up the pieces after last year's explosive season finale. Our review of Supernatural's season 13 premiere...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Is Saw's Jigsaw horror's biggest douchebag? Saw: looking back at the entire franchise in 24 hours
13.1 Lost And Found
Supernatural is back for lucky season number thirteen. And what better way to usher it in than with a bouncing baby Lucifer? Well, he's not a baby and he's not Lucifer. We'll get to that later.
The end of season twelve was a monumental fight against the clock, with battles happening all around, as baby Jack was born. Crowley died a hero, Mary Winchester faced off against Lucifer, and Castiel suffered perma-death. The premiere picks up exactly where last season left off, with Sam looking into the menacing eyes of Jack – not a baby or a child but a young man already.
Supernatural always...
Sam and Dean pick up the pieces after last year's explosive season finale. Our review of Supernatural's season 13 premiere...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Is Saw's Jigsaw horror's biggest douchebag? Saw: looking back at the entire franchise in 24 hours
13.1 Lost And Found
Supernatural is back for lucky season number thirteen. And what better way to usher it in than with a bouncing baby Lucifer? Well, he's not a baby and he's not Lucifer. We'll get to that later.
The end of season twelve was a monumental fight against the clock, with battles happening all around, as baby Jack was born. Crowley died a hero, Mary Winchester faced off against Lucifer, and Castiel suffered perma-death. The premiere picks up exactly where last season left off, with Sam looking into the menacing eyes of Jack – not a baby or a child but a young man already.
Supernatural always...
- 10/13/2017
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Dec 2, 2016
Supernatural ends an almost half-season run of strong episodes with one that didn't quite hit the high note...
This review contains spoilers.
See related The Mummy: first trailer for reboot, starring Tom Cruise
12.7 Rock Never Dies
I've been remarkably surprised with Supernatural's run in Season twelve thus far. There was one I didn't care as much for, but otherwise the story and direction has overall been great. I applaud the writers, the actors... everyone including the folks in set design and visual effects for keeping this season surprisingly fresh. I shouldn't be surprised then that the episode prior to the mid-season finale might feel a little... flat.
There were some good elements, and I'd like to highlight those first. The major one is the theme Lucifer harps on about obsession. Like a true rock god, he wants a devoted following, and he's not impressed with...
Supernatural ends an almost half-season run of strong episodes with one that didn't quite hit the high note...
This review contains spoilers.
See related The Mummy: first trailer for reboot, starring Tom Cruise
12.7 Rock Never Dies
I've been remarkably surprised with Supernatural's run in Season twelve thus far. There was one I didn't care as much for, but otherwise the story and direction has overall been great. I applaud the writers, the actors... everyone including the folks in set design and visual effects for keeping this season surprisingly fresh. I shouldn't be surprised then that the episode prior to the mid-season finale might feel a little... flat.
There were some good elements, and I'd like to highlight those first. The major one is the theme Lucifer harps on about obsession. Like a true rock god, he wants a devoted following, and he's not impressed with...
- 12/2/2016
- Den of Geek
Bridget Lamonica Nov 18, 2016
Even though it doesn't advance the season arc, Supernatural's latest is great story, well-told...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Suicide Squad: 2016's most cynical summer movie Suicide Squad - 21 questions answered Suicide Squad: the lasting intrigue of Jared Leto’s Joker Suicide Squad - what did you think?
12.6 Celebrating The Life Of Asa Fox
Supernatural reminds us that nobody is safe, as a houseful of hunters is picked off one by one by a particularly nasty demon. Appropriately, Billie the Reaper shows up to rub mortality in the faces of three Winchesters who've cheated death time and time again.
Sheriff Jody Mills gets to guest star in this episode too. I'm glad we got a few minutes of normalcy in the beginning of the hour – it's just Jody enjoying her day off with Netflix, the boys dropping in and being treated to her hospitality.
Even though it doesn't advance the season arc, Supernatural's latest is great story, well-told...
This review contains spoilers.
See related Suicide Squad: 2016's most cynical summer movie Suicide Squad - 21 questions answered Suicide Squad: the lasting intrigue of Jared Leto’s Joker Suicide Squad - what did you think?
12.6 Celebrating The Life Of Asa Fox
Supernatural reminds us that nobody is safe, as a houseful of hunters is picked off one by one by a particularly nasty demon. Appropriately, Billie the Reaper shows up to rub mortality in the faces of three Winchesters who've cheated death time and time again.
Sheriff Jody Mills gets to guest star in this episode too. I'm glad we got a few minutes of normalcy in the beginning of the hour – it's just Jody enjoying her day off with Netflix, the boys dropping in and being treated to her hospitality.
- 11/18/2016
- Den of Geek
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