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tuttidolci's review against another edition
1.0
Bummer.
The concept was unique. However, the execution was not good. It lacked focus and was sloppy and immature. In fact, it felt like something that my 13 year-old self could've written (I used to sneak-read Bodice Rippers at that age, so I could write a "story" with graphic sex scenes like the best of 'em).
I found myself skimming through parts which seemed like pure filler, and feeling disappointed when arriving at scenes that COULD'VE led to an amazing climax (no pun intended) or built up the flow into the next one. Instead, they'd veer into "WTF?" land, with downright out of place, hokey, awkward nonsense. As a result, I never connected with or even LIKED any character. In fact, the lead character, Cicely, was an impulsive, clichéd, weak, dog-in-heat that I could neither respect nor cheer for. And looking like a tattooed, goth chick did not magically make her a badass. At all.
Anywhoodle, let me go on record to state that I don't normally bother to write negative reviews, as I think that low star ratings speak for themselves. However, this story really disappointed me, because the premise was indeed unique, which gave it so much potential for development. But seeing said potential mismanaged when put into story form, completely turned me off.
The concept was unique. However, the execution was not good. It lacked focus and was sloppy and immature. In fact, it felt like something that my 13 year-old self could've written (I used to sneak-read Bodice Rippers at that age, so I could write a "story" with graphic sex scenes like the best of 'em).
I found myself skimming through parts which seemed like pure filler, and feeling disappointed when arriving at scenes that COULD'VE led to an amazing climax (no pun intended) or built up the flow into the next one. Instead, they'd veer into "WTF?" land, with downright out of place, hokey, awkward nonsense. As a result, I never connected with or even LIKED any character. In fact, the lead character, Cicely, was an impulsive, clichéd, weak, dog-in-heat that I could neither respect nor cheer for. And looking like a tattooed, goth chick did not magically make her a badass. At all.
Anywhoodle, let me go on record to state that I don't normally bother to write negative reviews, as I think that low star ratings speak for themselves. However, this story really disappointed me, because the premise was indeed unique, which gave it so much potential for development. But seeing said potential mismanaged when put into story form, completely turned me off.
keberwick's review against another edition
2.0
Oh boy, I have completely changed my mind about this book. It wasn't as good as I remembered and everything just felt slightly off. The abundance of explainers slipped into conversation is the first major complaint that I had. I felt like they were just blatantly put there with no effort to disguise them and even though explainers are almost a requirement for books like these, I felt like other books integrate them better into the conversation and the flow of the book.
I really wanted to be able to re-read and love this book like I did when I first read it. In fact, I wasn't even going to reread it because I thought it was so good that I would of course remember what had happened in the first book and there was no reason to remind myself before diving into the second book. Oh how wrong I was.
The idea is great, sure, but it's not executed perfectly. I wouldn't actively dissuade someone from reading it, but I'm sure as hell not going to recommend it.
I really wanted to be able to re-read and love this book like I did when I first read it. In fact, I wasn't even going to reread it because I thought it was so good that I would of course remember what had happened in the first book and there was no reason to remind myself before diving into the second book. Oh how wrong I was.
The idea is great, sure, but it's not executed perfectly. I wouldn't actively dissuade someone from reading it, but I'm sure as hell not going to recommend it.
redentrapy's review against another edition
4.0
A great story of Fae, undead, magic, and past lives merging to making a tantalizing and riveting tale. With violence, blood, and sex this is a page turner right from the beginning. The characters are a little underdeveloped but the plot line is completely original and very interesting. Can't wait for the next installment.
kim_brockway_gatehouse's review against another edition
3.0
A Fast-paced First Installment in this PNR Urban Fantasy Series
Yasmine Galenorn is a new-to-me author (although I have read and enjoyed a couple of her stories that have appeared in various box sets) and I loved the premise for this series; the new twisted mythology behind vampires and fae.
I loved the urban setting of this paranormal romance; the world building was complex, as was the cast of characters.
What niggled was that I found it hard to connect to our heroine, Cicely, and throughout this book I felt lost a numerous times; the narrative and dialogue didn't read like a first in series book but one where we the readers already knew the characters, past situations and histories.
Although I did enjoy this book, it hasn't gripped me enough to continue with the series.
Yasmine Galenorn is a new-to-me author (although I have read and enjoyed a couple of her stories that have appeared in various box sets) and I loved the premise for this series; the new twisted mythology behind vampires and fae.
I loved the urban setting of this paranormal romance; the world building was complex, as was the cast of characters.
What niggled was that I found it hard to connect to our heroine, Cicely, and throughout this book I felt lost a numerous times; the narrative and dialogue didn't read like a first in series book but one where we the readers already knew the characters, past situations and histories.
Although I did enjoy this book, it hasn't gripped me enough to continue with the series.
cheesygiraffe's review against another edition
4.0
Good start to a new series. It's a very interesting concept. And owls! I love owls. I wish I could fly.
deanapotter's review against another edition
5.0
If you liked the sisters, you will love this book!!!!
dynila's review against another edition
2.0
I keep picking up Yasmine Galenorn books a few authors I like (Laurell K Hamilton most notably) seem to really like her and her work and I want to do the same. I even have the first nine of her Otherworld series in paperback (for tub reading -- I've dropped enough books over the years to know not to try to read on my Kindle in the tub).
But I just can't do it. This was is at least a different world, and the MC is a bit smarter than the D'Artigo sisters (or, if not smarter, at least less vapid-seeming). But it was still fluffy with very little plot for the length of the book (9 CDs, I think).
I'd listen to the rest of the series, as ear candy while driving, but I wouldn't read them in print - too little content for too much of my time investment. Sorry, Ms. G -- I really wanted to like this.
But I just can't do it. This was is at least a different world, and the MC is a bit smarter than the D'Artigo sisters (or, if not smarter, at least less vapid-seeming). But it was still fluffy with very little plot for the length of the book (9 CDs, I think).
I'd listen to the rest of the series, as ear candy while driving, but I wouldn't read them in print - too little content for too much of my time investment. Sorry, Ms. G -- I really wanted to like this.
themarishale's review against another edition
4.0
While I loved Night Myst and understand that Ms. Galenorn must build this new world of vampiric fae, shifters, and witches, there was just so much going on. And, as someone who loves resolution, the unresolved issues are what left me feeling as if the book was one I "really liked" (according to Goodreads' rating standards) instead of one that I found "amazing".
I must admit, though, that I love a strong heroine who isn't lead entirely by lust, and Cicely fits that description well. It is obvious that she is in love with and connected to Grieve, so my heart broke for her at the end. However, I have hope that they will eventually find their happily ever after.
Also, can I just say that I am dying for Rhia and Chatter to hook up. I know Leo seems like a good guy, but there is something about the thought of Rhia and Chatter that I adore. Fiery Rhia and vulnerable Chatter--I just love it. And, though I know Cicely is all about Grieve, I wonder if his dark nature taking over will open the door for possibilities with Kaylin or Lannan (who is HOT but oh so dangerous and just a little scary).
All in all, if you enjoy Ms. Galenorn's books, you must let yourself fall into this complex and beautiful new world she has created. And if you have never read her books, Night Myst is a great introduction to her work.
I must admit, though, that I love a strong heroine who isn't lead entirely by lust, and Cicely fits that description well. It is obvious that she is in love with and connected to Grieve, so my heart broke for her at the end. However, I have hope that they will eventually find their happily ever after.
Also, can I just say that I am dying for Rhia and Chatter to hook up. I know Leo seems like a good guy, but there is something about the thought of Rhia and Chatter that I adore. Fiery Rhia and vulnerable Chatter--I just love it. And, though I know Cicely is all about Grieve, I wonder if his dark nature taking over will open the door for possibilities with Kaylin or Lannan (who is HOT but oh so dangerous and just a little scary).
All in all, if you enjoy Ms. Galenorn's books, you must let yourself fall into this complex and beautiful new world she has created. And if you have never read her books, Night Myst is a great introduction to her work.
xvicesx's review against another edition
3.0
I wasn't entirely fond of the vampire portrayal but the fey plots and conspiracies fit well in the world created.
I reckon Cicely could have done with a couple more IQ points (cause, really, who doesn't check for an expiry date when signing over their soul) and there were a couple of moments where she broke character in my view but that's just my thoughts. She feels "alive" on the page most of the time though, with very small exceptions, the other characters exist only to support her. I'm hoping this will change in the other books and maybe we can see some development, some life and plans outside of helping Cicely.
I reckon Cicely could have done with a couple more IQ points (cause, really, who doesn't check for an expiry date when signing over their soul) and there were a couple of moments where she broke character in my view but that's just my thoughts. She feels "alive" on the page most of the time though, with very small exceptions, the other characters exist only to support her. I'm hoping this will change in the other books and maybe we can see some development, some life and plans outside of helping Cicely.