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The Half-Light City #3
Iron Kin
Imagine a city divided. Fae and human mages on one side, vampire Blood Lords and shape-shifting Beast Kind on the other. Between these supernatural forces stands a peace treaty that threatens to shatter at the slightest provocation….
I was raised to do the right thing. But to my family that means staying safe behind the walls of human society. To be a respectable metalmage and never put myself at risk. But the treaty is faltering. And if it fails, nothing is safe. To help save the city and everyone I care about, I will use whatever means I can to ensure the negotiations to renew the treaty are successful—even if that means forging an alliance with a man who is the very opposite of the right thing….
Fen is trouble. Wild. He would rather bind himself in iron and drink himself into oblivion than learn to master the visions that come to him. Those visions might just hold the key to peace, and it seems that my power might hold the key to his control—if I can keep it around him….
I was raised to do the right thing. But to my family that means staying safe behind the walls of human society. To be a respectable metalmage and never put myself at risk. But the treaty is faltering. And if it fails, nothing is safe. To help save the city and everyone I care about, I will use whatever means I can to ensure the negotiations to renew the treaty are successful—even if that means forging an alliance with a man who is the very opposite of the right thing….
Fen is trouble. Wild. He would rather bind himself in iron and drink himself into oblivion than learn to master the visions that come to him. Those visions might just hold the key to peace, and it seems that my power might hold the key to his control—if I can keep it around him….
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2013
36 people are currently reading
1122 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Scott
28 books594 followersM.J Scott is a RITA® Award nominated author. She is an unrepentant bookworm. Luckily she grew up in a family that fed her a properly varied diet of books and these days is surrounded by people who are understanding of her story addiction. When not wrestling one of her own stories to the ground, she can generally be found reading someone else’s. Her other distractions include yarn, cat butlering, dark chocolate and fabric. She lives in Melbourne, Australia.
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She has also written contemporary romance as Melanie Scott and Emma Douglas.
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Follow her on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authormjscott
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She has also written contemporary romance as Melanie Scott and Emma Douglas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 14, 2016
This one was pretty boring. For one thing, they all seem to be variations of the same story.
One DuCaine sibling meets half-Fae hybrid and they're instantly super attracted to each other. Then they spend the first part of the book fighting that attraction, then they have at it for the next portion of the book, all while denying they feel anything but desire for each other, then they argue and the DuCaine sibling temporarily hates the Fae hybrid, but then they realize they're in love with said hybrid and forgive them, especially when they find out the hybrid had a good reason for whatever grievance they caused. Insert the various names and you get the main story of each book.
Aside from that, nothing really happened until the end and then, well it ended. It was like one long prologue for the next book. The first book is still my favourite in the series.
I didn't really like Saskia, to be honest. I found her annoying kind of childish. I do want to know what happens next though. Despite the repetitiveness of the books, the overarching political plot is interesting and I'm interested to see how the series ends.
Full review:
https://abooknerd13.wordpress.com/201...
One DuCaine sibling meets half-Fae hybrid and they're instantly super attracted to each other. Then they spend the first part of the book fighting that attraction, then they have at it for the next portion of the book, all while denying they feel anything but desire for each other, then they argue and the DuCaine sibling temporarily hates the Fae hybrid, but then they realize they're in love with said hybrid and forgive them, especially when they find out the hybrid had a good reason for whatever grievance they caused. Insert the various names and you get the main story of each book.
Aside from that, nothing really happened until the end and then, well it ended. It was like one long prologue for the next book. The first book is still my favourite in the series.
I didn't really like Saskia, to be honest. I found her annoying kind of childish. I do want to know what happens next though. Despite the repetitiveness of the books, the overarching political plot is interesting and I'm interested to see how the series ends.
Full review:
https://abooknerd13.wordpress.com/201...
June 26, 2025
A little slower than the previous books, but pretty entertaining and I liked the characters.
March 27, 2013
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
The fragile peace between the different races is held by a treaty, one that must be renegotiated every five years. Without it, the Bloods, Beast Kind, Fae, and humans would stay locked in a brutal war that would cost untold deaths. Saskia DuCaine inherited the same fierce need to help others that her older brothers have. However, unlike her brothers, she has been kept sheltered and not allowed to place herself in danger. But with the negotiations coming right around the corner, Saskia, is determined not to stay on the sidelines any longer, and will do anything to ensure her place. Fen, on the other hand wants nothing to do with the negotiations, but his ability to see the future is a crucial advantage the humans need. Only problem is that his visions are impossible to control and cause him debilitating pain. But through a mysterious twist of fate, Saskia's touch blocks his visions and gives him a respite from the misery. The two of them will have to learn to work together, and fast as something is brewing on the horizon and it doesn't look good for the humans.
The previous two book in this series have been very strong in both romance and the current/overall series plot. However, this time around in IRON KIN, while the plot(s) were still very strong, I felt the romance to be lacking. Well, perhaps lacking isn't quite the word. It's just that I don't feel like it was developed to its full potential. In fact I was more engrossed with the early build up and sexual tension than I was with the actual romance once things started to progress. In all honesty I felt incredibly let down by all of it. I understand that there was a whole lot going on around them, so there wasn't a whole lot of room for sexy interludes. But in the same token, in order for me to really believe in a relationship and get the full feeling from it, I just need a little more actual involvement. I felt like I was being told about their love rather than getting to actually feel it along with them. It was like all of the good middle stuff was glossed over and the reader was just supposed to fill in the blanks of Saskia and Fen's relationship.
There was a whole lot going on at once in IRON KIN, so much so that it did become a little overwhelming at times. Especially since none of the multiple plot threads were really settled by the end. I have appreciated the way this series has a strong overall arc as that helps to really tie books together despite the character focus rotation. However, I feel that this time around the focus was too strongly placed on the overall plot arc rather than any current one. It just made me feel like there was a lack of forward momentum. Don't get me wrong, plenty happened in IRON KIN, but nothing was quite settled, so it just didn't give me the sense of satisfaction I would like. That being said, I think the next book will be the last in the series, so perhaps everything was left so open in order to prepare for the final showdown.
Since this series has been a pretty good blend of paranormal romance/urban fantasy in the previous books, the lessor romantic development this time around did disappoint me, but then again, I am a very romance driven person. Even so it would have been a bit easier to overlook if the multiple plot threads had of come together a bit more solidly. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed IRON KIN, in fact with the way things ended, I am rather anxious to get my hands on the next installment to see what happens next.
The fragile peace between the different races is held by a treaty, one that must be renegotiated every five years. Without it, the Bloods, Beast Kind, Fae, and humans would stay locked in a brutal war that would cost untold deaths. Saskia DuCaine inherited the same fierce need to help others that her older brothers have. However, unlike her brothers, she has been kept sheltered and not allowed to place herself in danger. But with the negotiations coming right around the corner, Saskia, is determined not to stay on the sidelines any longer, and will do anything to ensure her place. Fen, on the other hand wants nothing to do with the negotiations, but his ability to see the future is a crucial advantage the humans need. Only problem is that his visions are impossible to control and cause him debilitating pain. But through a mysterious twist of fate, Saskia's touch blocks his visions and gives him a respite from the misery. The two of them will have to learn to work together, and fast as something is brewing on the horizon and it doesn't look good for the humans.
The previous two book in this series have been very strong in both romance and the current/overall series plot. However, this time around in IRON KIN, while the plot(s) were still very strong, I felt the romance to be lacking. Well, perhaps lacking isn't quite the word. It's just that I don't feel like it was developed to its full potential. In fact I was more engrossed with the early build up and sexual tension than I was with the actual romance once things started to progress. In all honesty I felt incredibly let down by all of it. I understand that there was a whole lot going on around them, so there wasn't a whole lot of room for sexy interludes. But in the same token, in order for me to really believe in a relationship and get the full feeling from it, I just need a little more actual involvement. I felt like I was being told about their love rather than getting to actually feel it along with them. It was like all of the good middle stuff was glossed over and the reader was just supposed to fill in the blanks of Saskia and Fen's relationship.
There was a whole lot going on at once in IRON KIN, so much so that it did become a little overwhelming at times. Especially since none of the multiple plot threads were really settled by the end. I have appreciated the way this series has a strong overall arc as that helps to really tie books together despite the character focus rotation. However, I feel that this time around the focus was too strongly placed on the overall plot arc rather than any current one. It just made me feel like there was a lack of forward momentum. Don't get me wrong, plenty happened in IRON KIN, but nothing was quite settled, so it just didn't give me the sense of satisfaction I would like. That being said, I think the next book will be the last in the series, so perhaps everything was left so open in order to prepare for the final showdown.
Since this series has been a pretty good blend of paranormal romance/urban fantasy in the previous books, the lessor romantic development this time around did disappoint me, but then again, I am a very romance driven person. Even so it would have been a bit easier to overlook if the multiple plot threads had of come together a bit more solidly. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed IRON KIN, in fact with the way things ended, I am rather anxious to get my hands on the next installment to see what happens next.
April 11, 2013
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
*Beware of possible Spoilers*
Fen is a mutt of sorts, a half-breed, part Fae and part Beast Kind, but neither race will claim him, being the abomination that he is. But Fen has the sight, he is overwhelmed with visions, but doesn’t know how to control them and the pain they bring him, and with nobody to teach him how to handle them, he chooses to bind his wrist in iron and to drown himself in alcohol, but now even that isn’t enough to stop the visions completely. And, with the Treaty Negotiations fast approaching, the different races are scrambling to gather any advantage they can acquire and suddenly Fen and his visions are a hot commodity. To bad he wants nothing to do with the negotiations, knowing that something bad is going to happen, he just isn’t sure what.
But when Fen takes his ‘sister’ to the DuCaine Treaty Ball he meets the lovely Saskia. The two are drawn to each other for reasons unknown to them. But he knows he has to stay away from her once he realizes she’s a DuCaine, not wanting to invoke the wrath of her brothers, Guy and Simon. But staying away becomes impossible once he discovers that Saskia can take away his visions and the body wracking pain they cause with a simple touch. And, she uses that to strike a deal with Fen to get herself invited to the negotiations, despite her brothers’ protests.
But when hell breaks loose at the negotiations, who will be left standing?
Don’t be put off by my rating of this book. I think it has a lot of potential. I absolutely loved the budding relationship between Fen and Saskia! I especially loved Fen! What can I say I love the drunken playboy:)
“If you’re all grown up, as you insist, then you’re old enough to recognize heat between a man and a woman. And it’s there between us. I’m not a saint, Saskia. I’m not one of your respectful human boys. If you ask me, I’m not going to be a gentleman.”
“Sainted bloody earth.” She’d finally found her tongue. Her cheeks still blushed pink, but her eyes were furious. “How is that no woman has killed you before now?”
One of my favorite parts was when their secret was discovered and the aftermath it caused! But unfortunately, I just didn’t care much about the other things that were going on around them. I found the preparations for the negotiations to be boring and the pomp and circumstance of the proceedings to be likewise. But yet, I kept expecting that to change and for something to happen to completely suck me in, but it just didn’t.
Like I previously stated, I loved the romance aspect in this book as Scott definitely nailed it! But I found Fen and Saskia’s reunion to be a bit lackluster. But above all I found the ending to have been the biggest disappointment of all. I was still waiting for that overwhelming mushy romantic ending and it just never came. I was also expecting some big climatic ending with the clash of the races, but instead we were left waiting. When I was done reading I was left asking ’really? That’s it?’ I was just expecting more.
But I appreciate that this series does have potential and I’m definitely planning to see what happens in the next installment.
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ir...
*Beware of possible Spoilers*
Fen is a mutt of sorts, a half-breed, part Fae and part Beast Kind, but neither race will claim him, being the abomination that he is. But Fen has the sight, he is overwhelmed with visions, but doesn’t know how to control them and the pain they bring him, and with nobody to teach him how to handle them, he chooses to bind his wrist in iron and to drown himself in alcohol, but now even that isn’t enough to stop the visions completely. And, with the Treaty Negotiations fast approaching, the different races are scrambling to gather any advantage they can acquire and suddenly Fen and his visions are a hot commodity. To bad he wants nothing to do with the negotiations, knowing that something bad is going to happen, he just isn’t sure what.
But when Fen takes his ‘sister’ to the DuCaine Treaty Ball he meets the lovely Saskia. The two are drawn to each other for reasons unknown to them. But he knows he has to stay away from her once he realizes she’s a DuCaine, not wanting to invoke the wrath of her brothers, Guy and Simon. But staying away becomes impossible once he discovers that Saskia can take away his visions and the body wracking pain they cause with a simple touch. And, she uses that to strike a deal with Fen to get herself invited to the negotiations, despite her brothers’ protests.
But when hell breaks loose at the negotiations, who will be left standing?
Don’t be put off by my rating of this book. I think it has a lot of potential. I absolutely loved the budding relationship between Fen and Saskia! I especially loved Fen! What can I say I love the drunken playboy:)
“If you’re all grown up, as you insist, then you’re old enough to recognize heat between a man and a woman. And it’s there between us. I’m not a saint, Saskia. I’m not one of your respectful human boys. If you ask me, I’m not going to be a gentleman.”
“Sainted bloody earth.” She’d finally found her tongue. Her cheeks still blushed pink, but her eyes were furious. “How is that no woman has killed you before now?”
One of my favorite parts was when their secret was discovered and the aftermath it caused! But unfortunately, I just didn’t care much about the other things that were going on around them. I found the preparations for the negotiations to be boring and the pomp and circumstance of the proceedings to be likewise. But yet, I kept expecting that to change and for something to happen to completely suck me in, but it just didn’t.
Like I previously stated, I loved the romance aspect in this book as Scott definitely nailed it! But I found Fen and Saskia’s reunion to be a bit lackluster. But above all I found the ending to have been the biggest disappointment of all. I was still waiting for that overwhelming mushy romantic ending and it just never came. I was also expecting some big climatic ending with the clash of the races, but instead we were left waiting. When I was done reading I was left asking ’really? That’s it?’ I was just expecting more.
But I appreciate that this series does have potential and I’m definitely planning to see what happens in the next installment.
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ir...
December 10, 2016
3.5 stars
There is something about this Half Light City series. Each book I pick up I begin with doubts and by 50 pages in I'm hooked. I love that each book also keeps within a story arc. They continue what is happening in the city focusing on new characters.
I really liked Saskia and Fen. I did find I liked Fen better than Saskia (even though he was an idiot). I don't know, Saskia was great for her strength but it annoyed me how her opinion of Fen seemed to change so swiftly.
I did feel a bit annoyed about how swiftly the book ended. I feel there needed to be another coulple of chapters to resolve it properly but it just didn't happen. I don't know. It didn't feel too rushed or anything, it just ended a bit abruptly. I need to invest in the final book at least.
There is something about this Half Light City series. Each book I pick up I begin with doubts and by 50 pages in I'm hooked. I love that each book also keeps within a story arc. They continue what is happening in the city focusing on new characters.
I really liked Saskia and Fen. I did find I liked Fen better than Saskia (even though he was an idiot). I don't know, Saskia was great for her strength but it annoyed me how her opinion of Fen seemed to change so swiftly.
I did feel a bit annoyed about how swiftly the book ended. I feel there needed to be another coulple of chapters to resolve it properly but it just didn't happen. I don't know. It didn't feel too rushed or anything, it just ended a bit abruptly. I need to invest in the final book at least.
August 4, 2018
I bought this book in an airport (as I always need a book when I get on a plane) and I didn't realise until I started reading that there were books in this series that probably should have been read first. For that reason, I was ready to give my critique of this book a bit of leeway, but Scott gave enough information about the world and previous characters throughout that that wasn't a problem.
What was a problem were a few main things that simply cannot be ignored:
1 - I felt ZERO chemistry between the hero and heroine. And what a shame because I enjoyed their characters as individuals, I really did, but aside from the moment they met where there was an obvious attraction on both sides I never felt their attraction for each other again. The author did a lot of telling the reader from either characters point of view that they liked or were attracted or whatever to the other, but not nearly enough showing to make me feel it and believe it. Additionally what brings them together - - makes their motives and feelings for each other completely unclear... I don't think we really ever hear them say/think about why else they want each other. That was a major let down as their romance was a big part of the book and it just fell really flat no matter how much I liked Fen and Saskia.
Speaking of liking Saskia - there was not enough SHOWN about her character - she's a damn metal mage, how badass is that?! Yet we only get a brief look into her life at her craft, and few odd moments (though fairly good ones) of her setting things on fire or whatnot, and usually just to prove herself to someone. Otherwise it's just a lot of her sensing metals, which, I'm sorry, is rather boring considering what a metal mage is capable of. She talks a lot about wanting to learn from the Fae metal mages so I assumed we'd get to see that at some point but we don't. I would have liked to have seen Saskia's skills on display more and to have been shown her craft to a larger extent... there was just so much potential to have not gotten more.
2. The Reggie character. Perhaps this is minor, and I don't know how this character was handled in the previous books (because it's implied she was around for a long while before this book takes place). But I found the use of this character infuriating. She is the epitome of a damsel in distress (which apparently was a plot point for Holly's book as well), it's almost like all the characters revolve around this world simply to keep this one character from peril... it's confusing, it's annoying, and frankly it seemed more often that Fen was in love with Reggie instead of Saskia even though their relationship was described as like siblings. It was just bad.
3. The 'villain'. I guess this may be another case of telling instead of showing, but the big bad of this story - - is built up to be this horrifying person (well, vampire) but it's all told without us experiencing any evidence which makes him a lot less terrifying to the reader and makes the stakes feel a lot lower (or even non existent) compared to what the author is trying to get us to feel. We were taken into the Blood hub of horror - why weren't we shown anything the characters talk about? We get told all these rumours throughout the book, and for what? In most fantasy stories, the plot and/or heroes are only as good as their villains... this villain had plenty of potential but landed well below the mark.
4. Potential never comes to fruition in this book. There are a variety of plot points that are framed in an interesting way and built up at length like something really incredible is going to happen so hold on to your seat.... and then nothing. I think my key word for describing this book is "flat" - the romance falls flat, the action points fall flat, even the intrigue of the over-arching political plot falls freaking flat. The book ends and it feels like you've read all these pages and nothing's actually happened. I had to remind myself that there were actual plot points since they were so easily faded out by nothing ever reaching the point of excitement we seemed promised, and even those things fall flat because you don't feel any different at the end of book.
I'm really disappointed in this book, and I'm always sorry to give a book such a low rating... maybe the first two books were better. The author did some decent world building and DESIGNED characters that, in theory, are interesting and dynamic, but there's a serious case of telling and not showing in this book that just makes it impossible to sink into. The Veiled Queen for instance - she was set up to be this awesomely terrifying character and I loved the image of her that Scott put in my mind, but we don't actually experience anything awesome and terrifying from her, we're really only told by other characters how awesome and terrifying she is. She's also a great example of there not being nearly enough follow-through on the action/dramatic parts of the story... if she has so much power and she's so well-feared than there should have been some sort of magical storm of fury when her veils went black, but there was just a resounding nothing. There's way too much exposition, I felt like I spent most of my time reading about a group of people sitting in a room talking about the world around tham and the troubles they face and barely getting to experience the world that seemed truly interesting. Flat.
What was a problem were a few main things that simply cannot be ignored:
1 - I felt ZERO chemistry between the hero and heroine. And what a shame because I enjoyed their characters as individuals, I really did, but aside from the moment they met where there was an obvious attraction on both sides I never felt their attraction for each other again. The author did a lot of telling the reader from either characters point of view that they liked or were attracted or whatever to the other, but not nearly enough showing to make me feel it and believe it. Additionally what brings them together - - makes their motives and feelings for each other completely unclear... I don't think we really ever hear them say/think about why else they want each other. That was a major let down as their romance was a big part of the book and it just fell really flat no matter how much I liked Fen and Saskia.
Speaking of liking Saskia - there was not enough SHOWN about her character - she's a damn metal mage, how badass is that?! Yet we only get a brief look into her life at her craft, and few odd moments (though fairly good ones) of her setting things on fire or whatnot, and usually just to prove herself to someone. Otherwise it's just a lot of her sensing metals, which, I'm sorry, is rather boring considering what a metal mage is capable of. She talks a lot about wanting to learn from the Fae metal mages so I assumed we'd get to see that at some point but we don't. I would have liked to have seen Saskia's skills on display more and to have been shown her craft to a larger extent... there was just so much potential to have not gotten more.
2. The Reggie character. Perhaps this is minor, and I don't know how this character was handled in the previous books (because it's implied she was around for a long while before this book takes place). But I found the use of this character infuriating. She is the epitome of a damsel in distress (which apparently was a plot point for Holly's book as well), it's almost like all the characters revolve around this world simply to keep this one character from peril... it's confusing, it's annoying, and frankly it seemed more often that Fen was in love with Reggie instead of Saskia even though their relationship was described as like siblings. It was just bad.
3. The 'villain'. I guess this may be another case of telling instead of showing, but the big bad of this story - - is built up to be this horrifying person (well, vampire) but it's all told without us experiencing any evidence which makes him a lot less terrifying to the reader and makes the stakes feel a lot lower (or even non existent) compared to what the author is trying to get us to feel. We were taken into the Blood hub of horror - why weren't we shown anything the characters talk about? We get told all these rumours throughout the book, and for what? In most fantasy stories, the plot and/or heroes are only as good as their villains... this villain had plenty of potential but landed well below the mark.
4. Potential never comes to fruition in this book. There are a variety of plot points that are framed in an interesting way and built up at length like something really incredible is going to happen so hold on to your seat.... and then nothing. I think my key word for describing this book is "flat" - the romance falls flat, the action points fall flat, even the intrigue of the over-arching political plot falls freaking flat. The book ends and it feels like you've read all these pages and nothing's actually happened. I had to remind myself that there were actual plot points since they were so easily faded out by nothing ever reaching the point of excitement we seemed promised, and even those things fall flat because you don't feel any different at the end of book.
I'm really disappointed in this book, and I'm always sorry to give a book such a low rating... maybe the first two books were better. The author did some decent world building and DESIGNED characters that, in theory, are interesting and dynamic, but there's a serious case of telling and not showing in this book that just makes it impossible to sink into. The Veiled Queen for instance - she was set up to be this awesomely terrifying character and I loved the image of her that Scott put in my mind, but we don't actually experience anything awesome and terrifying from her, we're really only told by other characters how awesome and terrifying she is. She's also a great example of there not being nearly enough follow-through on the action/dramatic parts of the story... if she has so much power and she's so well-feared than there should have been some sort of magical storm of fury when her veils went black, but there was just a resounding nothing. There's way too much exposition, I felt like I spent most of my time reading about a group of people sitting in a room talking about the world around tham and the troubles they face and barely getting to experience the world that seemed truly interesting. Flat.
April 5, 2021
In this third installment of the Half-light city series we get to see the world through the eyes of DuCaine number 3, Saskia and Fen, a Seer with an interesting parentage. A lot more happens in this book in the area of world building, and therefore it is equal parts action and plot development but also a lot of setting descriptions. I enjoyed this book, but felt it was similar in how the other two began so only give it a 3.5 out of 5.
September 14, 2017
It's odd to me - this book, based on the name and the cover, is Saskia's story, but she really didn't have much to do it in. Fen moved the story along, but she was just...there. The end of the book was abrupt, and their relationship felt unresolved, not something unexpected for this genre, except that so far each book has been about a different couple.
April 10, 2019
Slightly frustrated that my library has none of the other books in this series. Each book is about a different set of characters which helps, yet it is clearly a continuing storyline where I feel like I missed some minor background information and don’t truly get to know the end. The book doesn’t quite end in a cliffhanger, but there it’s obvious there’s still more to happen.
May 3, 2018
This was my favorite of the series to date. Fen was a perfect hero, and Saskia was as strong a person as her brothers. We learned a little more about the Fae which was enjoyable. I will be reading the next book right away.
February 14, 2019
Another good one!
I was afraid it would be the same story rehashed a third time but this took us into the fae land and extended the story. A really good read that kept me enthralled till the ending. Can’t wait to read the 4th in the series.
I was afraid it would be the same story rehashed a third time but this took us into the fae land and extended the story. A really good read that kept me enthralled till the ending. Can’t wait to read the 4th in the series.
October 13, 2019
The third book in the Half-life city sequence is good and recommended.
September 20, 2020
Great additional story
I loved hearing more about Fen but this book definitely leaves off with you wanting to read the next book to find out what happens
I loved hearing more about Fen but this book definitely leaves off with you wanting to read the next book to find out what happens
June 9, 2021
Things are seriously getting heated in this series. Fen is a great character. I do wish this one was longer because certain things seemed a bit rushed, but overall so good.
March 13, 2018
Saskia DuCaine doesn't want to be in a protective bubble her family has placed her in. She's an Iron mage which is rare even though she's an apprentice. The upcoming peace talks between Beastkind, Human, and Fae are embroiled in a power struggles for the safety of all. Fen is a loner but doesn't really belong in Human, Fae, or Beastkind. Fen prefers to drown his abilities in alcohol rather than control them properly. Fen is being forced to choose a side for the upcoming peace talks by The DuCaine's and Beastkind. He really doesn't want to be involved in any of it but fate is forcing his hand so to speak. Saskia wants to be apart of the delegation going to peace talks and Fen can help her. Why does Saskia want to go? Will Fen choose a side? Will the peace talks be held? Your answers await you in Iron Kin.
August 30, 2013
Originally reviewed for and posted at Vampire Book Club.
A mark of a great book is when I finish reading it and get pissed the next one isn’t immediately available.
In Iron Kin we return to the Half-Light City and the DuCaine family. Saskia’s a metalmage and the oldest daughter, escaping the trappings of marriage only due to her studies. She meets Fen, a Beast/Fae/human mongrel, in a chance encounter at a ball thrown by her mother. The two are intrigued by each other, but Saskia’s determined to stay away from romantic entanglements until she’s achieved her goal: to be named one of the Guild’s delegates in the upcoming treaty negotiations. Fen, for his part, knows Saskia’s the kind of woman to stay away from, even before his friend Holly warns him off.
But one touch brings Fen back into Saskia’s orbit, and leaves the two of them entwined, at least for the duration of the negotiations.
Fen’s been blessed, or cursed, with the Sight, and as such, his Beast Kin family line wants to claim him, but only to use his powers. His visions are getting worse, though, so bad that the alcohol and iron he uses to keep them at bay don’t work anymore. Saskia’s affinity for iron somehow makes her touch the balm he needs. Need becomes crave, and Fen wrestles with the knowledge that he’s not the best candidate for Saskia’s heart.
Saskia doesn’t fight her growing feelings for Fen. She lets them come, but doesn’t analyze them. Her casual attitude toward their deepening relationship allows Fen to let down his guard around her. He understands and respects what she’s capable of, and while he tries to protect her, he acknowledges that she’s capable of doing it herself, which is more than she gets from her brothers, Simon and Guy.
Despite the old-fashioned philosophy surrounding the women of the Half-Light City, Saskia’s determined to be different. She’s strong, independent, and wants to be seen as an individual and valued as a person, not as a woman, and one who can handle the harsh truths of what’s to come.
The events set in motion all the way back in Shadow Kin pick up speed here. The fragile treaty held together by the Veiled Queen’s law could fail at any moment, and there are those in the Night World who would see it so. After the death of Lord Lucius, there’s a power struggle to rule the Blood Court, the Beast Kin are making alliances with the Blood, and the humans are the ones who stand to lose the most. The entire City’s on edge. It makes both Saskia and Fen feel a little guilty that they’re more concerned with each other at times than the greater good.
The world of the Half-Light City is one you want to sink into. It’s a fantastical mix of paranormal and steampunk, populated by shapeshifters, vampires, fae, magically inclined humans, and those without any sort of supernatural enhancements. There are taverns and brothels, modistes and Templars, gas lamps and indoor plumbing. The Fae hold the balance of power simply by default of having the ability to kill everyone, their magic more powerful than the supernatural strength and violence of the Beast or Blood Kin.
The novels of the Half-Light City fall into the category of “buy and devour immediately” for me. Strong and complex world building, emotionally layered relationships, and enough action to keep me up long past my bedtime, I want to know what’s going to happen next for the DuCaines and their chosen partners, and I want to know now.
A mark of a great book is when I finish reading it and get pissed the next one isn’t immediately available.
In Iron Kin we return to the Half-Light City and the DuCaine family. Saskia’s a metalmage and the oldest daughter, escaping the trappings of marriage only due to her studies. She meets Fen, a Beast/Fae/human mongrel, in a chance encounter at a ball thrown by her mother. The two are intrigued by each other, but Saskia’s determined to stay away from romantic entanglements until she’s achieved her goal: to be named one of the Guild’s delegates in the upcoming treaty negotiations. Fen, for his part, knows Saskia’s the kind of woman to stay away from, even before his friend Holly warns him off.
But one touch brings Fen back into Saskia’s orbit, and leaves the two of them entwined, at least for the duration of the negotiations.
Fen’s been blessed, or cursed, with the Sight, and as such, his Beast Kin family line wants to claim him, but only to use his powers. His visions are getting worse, though, so bad that the alcohol and iron he uses to keep them at bay don’t work anymore. Saskia’s affinity for iron somehow makes her touch the balm he needs. Need becomes crave, and Fen wrestles with the knowledge that he’s not the best candidate for Saskia’s heart.
Saskia doesn’t fight her growing feelings for Fen. She lets them come, but doesn’t analyze them. Her casual attitude toward their deepening relationship allows Fen to let down his guard around her. He understands and respects what she’s capable of, and while he tries to protect her, he acknowledges that she’s capable of doing it herself, which is more than she gets from her brothers, Simon and Guy.
Despite the old-fashioned philosophy surrounding the women of the Half-Light City, Saskia’s determined to be different. She’s strong, independent, and wants to be seen as an individual and valued as a person, not as a woman, and one who can handle the harsh truths of what’s to come.
The events set in motion all the way back in Shadow Kin pick up speed here. The fragile treaty held together by the Veiled Queen’s law could fail at any moment, and there are those in the Night World who would see it so. After the death of Lord Lucius, there’s a power struggle to rule the Blood Court, the Beast Kin are making alliances with the Blood, and the humans are the ones who stand to lose the most. The entire City’s on edge. It makes both Saskia and Fen feel a little guilty that they’re more concerned with each other at times than the greater good.
The world of the Half-Light City is one you want to sink into. It’s a fantastical mix of paranormal and steampunk, populated by shapeshifters, vampires, fae, magically inclined humans, and those without any sort of supernatural enhancements. There are taverns and brothels, modistes and Templars, gas lamps and indoor plumbing. The Fae hold the balance of power simply by default of having the ability to kill everyone, their magic more powerful than the supernatural strength and violence of the Beast or Blood Kin.
The novels of the Half-Light City fall into the category of “buy and devour immediately” for me. Strong and complex world building, emotionally layered relationships, and enough action to keep me up long past my bedtime, I want to know what’s going to happen next for the DuCaines and their chosen partners, and I want to know now.
September 14, 2013
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
As must as I enjoyed Iron Kin, I doubt whether I’ll be continuing this series beyond this book because there’s just nothing overly remarkable about it. Shadow Kin, now there’s a kickass story and also one of the only reasons why I made it to the third installment of this series. Even though this novel does have well-constructed characters, creative world-building and an exciting love interest; it just didn’t do it for me. Thankfully, there were plenty of Lily moments in this installment which brought back fond memories of my love for the first book. I don’t know why the author chose to change lead characters from book-to-book like they do in paranormal romance, but it was a mistake. It just doesn’t fit with the genre she’s writing in.
As far as heroines go, I enjoyed Saskia. At first glance she appears to be the conformist, rich girl but after spending some time with her you’ll soon learn that she likes to play with fire and have sex in public places. Yes, Miss DuCaine has a bit of a rebellious streak. She spends a good part of this book trying to convince her brothers (and readers) that she is genuinely interested in joining the cause instead of just young and looking for adventure. I only wish that Scott had spent a bit more time expanding on things like Saskia’s metalmage powers and her relationship with Fen instead of Half-Light City politics.
I enjoyed the edge of danger to Saskia and Fen’s relationship. She’s a well-bred human from a powerful family who should, never in a million years, end up with a degenerate half-breed like Fen. But of course, as is often the case, that which is “forbidden” becomes even more attractive. With DuCaine’s brothers constantly hounding her every step and a war looming on the horizon, their stolen kisses become extra exciting. I really liked the initial stages of their courtship but found that their love story fell to the sidelines as the book progressed which is a shame because it was one of the best parts of this installment. The first two books were more romance driven than this one so I was disappointed that Scott decided to change-up her format in her third novel.
There’s a lot going on in this novel including multiple plot threads, city politics and visions of the future; it was difficult to keep them all straight at times. It made my head hurt and the fact that nothing really gets resolved in the end left me feeling frustrated and annoyed. I highly recommend Shadow Kin but as for the rest of this series, it’s only average at best.
As must as I enjoyed Iron Kin, I doubt whether I’ll be continuing this series beyond this book because there’s just nothing overly remarkable about it. Shadow Kin, now there’s a kickass story and also one of the only reasons why I made it to the third installment of this series. Even though this novel does have well-constructed characters, creative world-building and an exciting love interest; it just didn’t do it for me. Thankfully, there were plenty of Lily moments in this installment which brought back fond memories of my love for the first book. I don’t know why the author chose to change lead characters from book-to-book like they do in paranormal romance, but it was a mistake. It just doesn’t fit with the genre she’s writing in.
As far as heroines go, I enjoyed Saskia. At first glance she appears to be the conformist, rich girl but after spending some time with her you’ll soon learn that she likes to play with fire and have sex in public places. Yes, Miss DuCaine has a bit of a rebellious streak. She spends a good part of this book trying to convince her brothers (and readers) that she is genuinely interested in joining the cause instead of just young and looking for adventure. I only wish that Scott had spent a bit more time expanding on things like Saskia’s metalmage powers and her relationship with Fen instead of Half-Light City politics.
I enjoyed the edge of danger to Saskia and Fen’s relationship. She’s a well-bred human from a powerful family who should, never in a million years, end up with a degenerate half-breed like Fen. But of course, as is often the case, that which is “forbidden” becomes even more attractive. With DuCaine’s brothers constantly hounding her every step and a war looming on the horizon, their stolen kisses become extra exciting. I really liked the initial stages of their courtship but found that their love story fell to the sidelines as the book progressed which is a shame because it was one of the best parts of this installment. The first two books were more romance driven than this one so I was disappointed that Scott decided to change-up her format in her third novel.
There’s a lot going on in this novel including multiple plot threads, city politics and visions of the future; it was difficult to keep them all straight at times. It made my head hurt and the fact that nothing really gets resolved in the end left me feeling frustrated and annoyed. I highly recommend Shadow Kin but as for the rest of this series, it’s only average at best.
March 27, 2013
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.0
*Review*
Iron Kin is the third installment in the Half-Light City series. The Half-Light City series is set in a alternative world where Humans, including Templars, Bloods (Vampires), Fae, and Beast Kind (werewolves) are all bound by a treaty that gets renewed and reviewed every 5 years. The first two books, Shadow Kin and Blood Kin, slowly built up the foundation for what happens in this book and introduced the main characters who have fought for everything they have in order to survive.
Iron Kin is told in the first POV alternating between Saskia DuCaine (Simon and Guy's mage sister) and Fen who apparently doesn't have any sort of last name that I could find. The one thing that we do know is that he is connected with Holly and their friend Reggie. As with the first two books in this series, Shadow Kin and Blood Kin, everything is connected. All of the characters have returned minus those who have met their untimely deaths. Characters like Simon (sunmage/healer) and Guy DuCaine (Templar), as well as Lily (wraith) and Holly Evendale (1/2 Fae) all make their return engagement.
Saskia is a rather interesting character if I may say so. She's a top of her class metal mage who has the ability to call fire, make metal dance to her desires, and hear the song of the Iron. She's feisty, she doesn't like being cuddled and protected by her older brothers and she pretty much lives her life exactly the way she wants to which leads her into capturing Fen's heart. I really wish that Scott had made her more of a kick ass character. I would have loved to see her kick some Bad Blood (pun necessary) and Beasts but I wouldn't categorize her as a weak Mary Sue type.
Fen, on the other hand, has been having intense visions which more often than not come true. Fen is part Fae, Part Beast, and Part Human which makes him an outcast, yet his services are in great demand because he can see future events. When we first meet Fen, he's a rake. He has a reputation as a ladies man and often drowns his visions in alcohol. Needless to say, Holly, Lily, Simon, and Guy try to keep him away from Saskia which only leads to her rebellion. There is plenty of sex in this book to keep even the die hard PNR fans jumping for joy.
I would absolutely recommend that you read this series in order. The story really gets interesting in the second half of this book when all parties are required to attend the renewal of the treaty and enemies pool all their resources in order to make a bloody statement. There are dangers around every corner, some seriously evil and dangerous factions who want to see the human race bow under their feet.
Definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next!
Expected publication: April 2nd 2013 by ROC
*Rating* 3.0
*Review*
Iron Kin is the third installment in the Half-Light City series. The Half-Light City series is set in a alternative world where Humans, including Templars, Bloods (Vampires), Fae, and Beast Kind (werewolves) are all bound by a treaty that gets renewed and reviewed every 5 years. The first two books, Shadow Kin and Blood Kin, slowly built up the foundation for what happens in this book and introduced the main characters who have fought for everything they have in order to survive.
Iron Kin is told in the first POV alternating between Saskia DuCaine (Simon and Guy's mage sister) and Fen who apparently doesn't have any sort of last name that I could find. The one thing that we do know is that he is connected with Holly and their friend Reggie. As with the first two books in this series, Shadow Kin and Blood Kin, everything is connected. All of the characters have returned minus those who have met their untimely deaths. Characters like Simon (sunmage/healer) and Guy DuCaine (Templar), as well as Lily (wraith) and Holly Evendale (1/2 Fae) all make their return engagement.
Saskia is a rather interesting character if I may say so. She's a top of her class metal mage who has the ability to call fire, make metal dance to her desires, and hear the song of the Iron. She's feisty, she doesn't like being cuddled and protected by her older brothers and she pretty much lives her life exactly the way she wants to which leads her into capturing Fen's heart. I really wish that Scott had made her more of a kick ass character. I would have loved to see her kick some Bad Blood (pun necessary) and Beasts but I wouldn't categorize her as a weak Mary Sue type.
Fen, on the other hand, has been having intense visions which more often than not come true. Fen is part Fae, Part Beast, and Part Human which makes him an outcast, yet his services are in great demand because he can see future events. When we first meet Fen, he's a rake. He has a reputation as a ladies man and often drowns his visions in alcohol. Needless to say, Holly, Lily, Simon, and Guy try to keep him away from Saskia which only leads to her rebellion. There is plenty of sex in this book to keep even the die hard PNR fans jumping for joy.
I would absolutely recommend that you read this series in order. The story really gets interesting in the second half of this book when all parties are required to attend the renewal of the treaty and enemies pool all their resources in order to make a bloody statement. There are dangers around every corner, some seriously evil and dangerous factions who want to see the human race bow under their feet.
Definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next!
Expected publication: April 2nd 2013 by ROC
April 7, 2013
Review Courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
In IRON KIN the stakes are raised as the people of the Half-Light City creep closer to all out war. The worldbuilding in this series is one of its strengths and delving deeper into the politics of this world made it even richer. The fragile peace between the mages, vampires, and shifters drove the action and kept the threat of war dangerous close throughout the book. It was a somewhat challenging to keep track of everything and not feel overwhelmed occasionally, but the intensity, politics, and complex characters were solid.
Speaking of complex, Fen is a completely tragic character. His visions are both a gift and a very painful curse. He resorts to using iron to curb his seer powers, though the pain he got from the iron was only marginally better than the physical reactions to the horrifying images of destruction he sees. On top of that, he has to deal with stigma from shape-shifting Beast Kind because he’s a half-breed. All of this puts a serious chip on his shoulder that was understandable, but off putting at times.
Considering Fen’s less than sunny personality, he’s not an obvious romantic lead, but as the story progress he and Saskia really did fit well together. Both characters are so strong willed that every compromise was a battle. While Fen and Saskia’s flirting and compatibility was great, I didn’t enjoy the actual growing romance as much as I did with SHADOW KIN and BLOOD KIN. There was just so much plot to wade through that their relationship development was forced to take on a supporting role that unfortunately made it less compelling.
The dense and complex plot was at times confusing, and the low key romance could have been amped up, but IRON KIN was jam packed with action, juicy politics, and a lot of loose ends left over for the next book to resolve that it’s still a good read for series fans. Be on the lookout for FIRE KIN, the fourth book in The Half-Light City series, to hit shelves in 2014.
Sexual Content: Some graphic sex scenes
In IRON KIN the stakes are raised as the people of the Half-Light City creep closer to all out war. The worldbuilding in this series is one of its strengths and delving deeper into the politics of this world made it even richer. The fragile peace between the mages, vampires, and shifters drove the action and kept the threat of war dangerous close throughout the book. It was a somewhat challenging to keep track of everything and not feel overwhelmed occasionally, but the intensity, politics, and complex characters were solid.
Speaking of complex, Fen is a completely tragic character. His visions are both a gift and a very painful curse. He resorts to using iron to curb his seer powers, though the pain he got from the iron was only marginally better than the physical reactions to the horrifying images of destruction he sees. On top of that, he has to deal with stigma from shape-shifting Beast Kind because he’s a half-breed. All of this puts a serious chip on his shoulder that was understandable, but off putting at times.
Considering Fen’s less than sunny personality, he’s not an obvious romantic lead, but as the story progress he and Saskia really did fit well together. Both characters are so strong willed that every compromise was a battle. While Fen and Saskia’s flirting and compatibility was great, I didn’t enjoy the actual growing romance as much as I did with SHADOW KIN and BLOOD KIN. There was just so much plot to wade through that their relationship development was forced to take on a supporting role that unfortunately made it less compelling.
The dense and complex plot was at times confusing, and the low key romance could have been amped up, but IRON KIN was jam packed with action, juicy politics, and a lot of loose ends left over for the next book to resolve that it’s still a good read for series fans. Be on the lookout for FIRE KIN, the fourth book in The Half-Light City series, to hit shelves in 2014.
Sexual Content: Some graphic sex scenes
October 15, 2015
So far the best in this series. Still not outstanding or anything though. The story continues with this third installment, and I was happy to revisit old characters. Lily is one I particularly like continuing to follow.
However, Fen has quickly become my favorite. I thought this would happen when reading Blood Kin, because he has all the history and personality I like best for male leads. He has had a rough upbringing, and is very tortured. This is both emotional and physical. As expected, he doesn't feel like he is good enough for the female lead Saskia. I swear I fall for these guys every single time.
Saskia (weird name when compared to all of the other main characters except the fae) was ok. I was disappointed that she didn't do more. The whole time she talks about wanting to be involved but her family holding her back to keep her safe. With that background I just felt she was going to do something miraculous so they'd all see her differently. It never really happened.
The romance was loads better than the second book, and a little better than the first book. The characters fell for eachother's looks AND personality. What?! Very believable and romantic. (But some of the intimacy went weird for me. Especially since the scenes were described much more. This wasn't good for me.)
I was also disappointed that Saskia's powers weren't used more often. I was intrigued by them and nothing crazy awesome happened with them. I was bummed that we didn't explore this ability of hers to help Fen. And Fen's abilities were very seldom used. So many things that could have made this book a lot better.
The dialogue was still really difficult to follow since the thoughts filled so much in between statements. It got a little better then the first two books but not much.
I have one more book to finish the story. I'm not bursting with excitement but the books are still good and hard to put down. I'm even more interested in M.J. Scott's upcoming fantasy series about witches.
However, Fen has quickly become my favorite. I thought this would happen when reading Blood Kin, because he has all the history and personality I like best for male leads. He has had a rough upbringing, and is very tortured. This is both emotional and physical. As expected, he doesn't feel like he is good enough for the female lead Saskia. I swear I fall for these guys every single time.
Saskia (weird name when compared to all of the other main characters except the fae) was ok. I was disappointed that she didn't do more. The whole time she talks about wanting to be involved but her family holding her back to keep her safe. With that background I just felt she was going to do something miraculous so they'd all see her differently. It never really happened.
The romance was loads better than the second book, and a little better than the first book. The characters fell for eachother's looks AND personality. What?! Very believable and romantic. (But some of the intimacy went weird for me. Especially since the scenes were described much more. This wasn't good for me.)
I was also disappointed that Saskia's powers weren't used more often. I was intrigued by them and nothing crazy awesome happened with them. I was bummed that we didn't explore this ability of hers to help Fen. And Fen's abilities were very seldom used. So many things that could have made this book a lot better.
The dialogue was still really difficult to follow since the thoughts filled so much in between statements. It got a little better then the first two books but not much.
I have one more book to finish the story. I'm not bursting with excitement but the books are still good and hard to put down. I'm even more interested in M.J. Scott's upcoming fantasy series about witches.
May 26, 2013
***WARNING***THIS REVIEW DOES CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!
First of all I read Iron Kin without reading the previous two books in the series. I had been worried that I would be a little lost having not read them. But fortunately that wasn't a problem. Sure there was some back story that probably would have been nice having from reading the other two books but I didn't have any problems understanding exactly what was going on.
I LOVED this book. The main female character, Saskia, really surprised me. I was expecting her to be all meek and coy and well, female. Instead we were presented with a bold, female metal mage. Strong and willful. I really enjoyed her character. Fen, the mixed breed (half human, half fae, half beast) man, I really liked as well. Wild yet extremely loyal to those he loves. The story line was great and I couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next though out the entire book. I wanted to know more about the Veiled World and Summerdale and the Veiled Queen. I really wish that it would have touched on her more. Especially after the explosion during the beginning of the treaty delegations. And I do wish that it would have touched more on the group of vampires seeking haven at the hospital.
So I guess that is my complaint. I do with the book would have been a little more extensive and I wish that the ending would have wrapped things up a little more. I realize that, of course, its leading towards a fourth book in the series but I feel like the ending left a few things hanging and the book would have been even better if they hadn't been.
But it was still an excellent book. I cannot wait to go back and read Shadow Kin and Blood Kin. And I anxiously await the arrival of the next book.
First of all I read Iron Kin without reading the previous two books in the series. I had been worried that I would be a little lost having not read them. But fortunately that wasn't a problem. Sure there was some back story that probably would have been nice having from reading the other two books but I didn't have any problems understanding exactly what was going on.
I LOVED this book. The main female character, Saskia, really surprised me. I was expecting her to be all meek and coy and well, female. Instead we were presented with a bold, female metal mage. Strong and willful. I really enjoyed her character. Fen, the mixed breed (half human, half fae, half beast) man, I really liked as well. Wild yet extremely loyal to those he loves. The story line was great and I couldn't wait to see what was gonna happen next though out the entire book. I wanted to know more about the Veiled World and Summerdale and the Veiled Queen. I really wish that it would have touched on her more. Especially after the explosion during the beginning of the treaty delegations. And I do wish that it would have touched more on the group of vampires seeking haven at the hospital.
So I guess that is my complaint. I do with the book would have been a little more extensive and I wish that the ending would have wrapped things up a little more. I realize that, of course, its leading towards a fourth book in the series but I feel like the ending left a few things hanging and the book would have been even better if they hadn't been.
But it was still an excellent book. I cannot wait to go back and read Shadow Kin and Blood Kin. And I anxiously await the arrival of the next book.
June 27, 2013
Last book, Blood Kin, was good, but I wasn't as impressed with it or liked it as much as the first book Shadow Kin. Not to mention that I had a hard time getting into Blood Kin. However, I didn't have the same problem for Iron Kin. I'm not sure if it was cause of Saskia or Fen (hmmm, Fen. For some reason I kept picturing him with an earring in one ear like some dastardly pirate). Last book, Holly was meh and Guy was all right. I loved Saskia's spunkiness in this book. Plus, a chick who can fashion a dagger out of a candlestick? Awesome.
Another thing that I adored about this book was all the twisty turns in it.
Seriously, I did not expect to see them coming.
The pacing and the events that occur in the book really grip you. I have a bunch of times when it was past midnight and feeling a bit hallucinogenic. But I kept reading on because BAM! Scott hit me with a scene that made me go "WHAT?! I must know what happens next!!!!"
I must also say that I was pleasantly surprised that the resigning of the Treaty occurred within this book. Since sometimes authors will drag something like that out through lots and lots of books (like Kresley Cole... in her Immortals After Dark series, she talks and talks about how the characters are gearing up for The Accession, but it never happens. I grew so fed up with this, I gave up after book 8.).
I am so stoked for Fire Kin! Can't wait, can't wait.
Another thing that I adored about this book was all the twisty turns in it.
Seriously, I did not expect to see them coming.
The pacing and the events that occur in the book really grip you. I have a bunch of times when it was past midnight and feeling a bit hallucinogenic. But I kept reading on because BAM! Scott hit me with a scene that made me go "WHAT?! I must know what happens next!!!!"
I must also say that I was pleasantly surprised that the resigning of the Treaty occurred within this book. Since sometimes authors will drag something like that out through lots and lots of books (like Kresley Cole... in her Immortals After Dark series, she talks and talks about how the characters are gearing up for The Accession, but it never happens. I grew so fed up with this, I gave up after book 8.).
I am so stoked for Fire Kin! Can't wait, can't wait.
April 4, 2013
I absolutely love this installment. The Half-Light City novels are phenomenal. If you have yet to read the first two in this series- you really can't start with this one. If yo udo- you'll be lost. MJ Scott is a wonderful storyteller that can weave a believable world that draws you in as a part of it. It really is amazing how compelling her characters are too. :P
In a city where the peace is held through the will of the Veiled Fae Queen, tensions stir when the time of treaty comes around. Every four years the treaties must be revisited and this time around someone has attempted to put a stop to the peace talks. In a world where vampires (the Blood), weres (Beast Kin), humans (average ppl, Templars, and mages), and fae battle each other for supremacy-the Queen's laws are the only thing stopping the bloodshed.
In this latest novel by Scott, the oldest DuCaine sister a metalmage named Saskia, is trying to prove her worth to herself and her family of Templar trained brothers. Though still a student at the Metalmage Guild, Saskia is strong in her abilities and wants to be involved in the treaty summit. After being left behind by her instructors for her protection- she looks for another way in and finds it with Fen.
Fen is a mutt in the purest sense of the word; part human, part fae, part Beast Kin, and mostly crazy. With visions that rock him on a daily basis he attempts to drown them away or block them with an iron chain. Little does he know, but there are simpler ways to rid himself of the chaos that comes with visions and with Saskia's help, he just might find it.
4 Stars
In a city where the peace is held through the will of the Veiled Fae Queen, tensions stir when the time of treaty comes around. Every four years the treaties must be revisited and this time around someone has attempted to put a stop to the peace talks. In a world where vampires (the Blood), weres (Beast Kin), humans (average ppl, Templars, and mages), and fae battle each other for supremacy-the Queen's laws are the only thing stopping the bloodshed.
In this latest novel by Scott, the oldest DuCaine sister a metalmage named Saskia, is trying to prove her worth to herself and her family of Templar trained brothers. Though still a student at the Metalmage Guild, Saskia is strong in her abilities and wants to be involved in the treaty summit. After being left behind by her instructors for her protection- she looks for another way in and finds it with Fen.
Fen is a mutt in the purest sense of the word; part human, part fae, part Beast Kin, and mostly crazy. With visions that rock him on a daily basis he attempts to drown them away or block them with an iron chain. Little does he know, but there are simpler ways to rid himself of the chaos that comes with visions and with Saskia's help, he just might find it.
4 Stars
June 8, 2014
Wow, after even learning this book existed I knew it was sooo going to be the one I had high expectations about. But by far this one read actually even weaker than the second book. And that book was totally a whole lot of sitting around and not doing much special. Iron Kin on the other hand is all about the DuCaine brother's younger sister, the mighty iron mage in short whining and manipulating her way into sitting at the big boys and girls table during a very critical time in the storyline. However once she got there, all she was about was whining about wising she wasn't there or what her love interest was doing and how he paid more attention to the other girls on the 'playground'. And even with said love interest it was just really high school for them both to be adults.
The main couple aside, the best thing that happened was the Fae Queen dying. Not to say she was uberly heinous throughout the book. Totally reserved that for the end. But still, she lost one person and then she was acting like Faezilla, throwing out crazy ultimatums, going to allow for the speed up of war, and even claiming other people at the random til her destiny changed. And also it finally came out how a wraith is created and likely a bit more as a clue into Lily's parentage. Beyond that, this was in some ways quite the most disappointing part of the series yet for me. I really wished I could have liked it more. But the main couple totally blew it for me in this book.
The main couple aside, the best thing that happened was the Fae Queen dying. Not to say she was uberly heinous throughout the book. Totally reserved that for the end. But still, she lost one person and then she was acting like Faezilla, throwing out crazy ultimatums, going to allow for the speed up of war, and even claiming other people at the random til her destiny changed. And also it finally came out how a wraith is created and likely a bit more as a clue into Lily's parentage. Beyond that, this was in some ways quite the most disappointing part of the series yet for me. I really wished I could have liked it more. But the main couple totally blew it for me in this book.
November 25, 2014
Full review to come....
This one is probably actually closer to a 3.5 star read for me. I really liked Fen and Saskia's relationship but am marking this slightly lower than the other two books in the series only because I thought that the ending was somewhat abrupt and, while not really a cliffhanger, still left a lot unresolved. Fen and Saskia also got a little shortchanged I think near the end as Half-Light City politics took center stage and their relationship got pushed to the side. I understand why that happened but I think they deserved a few more pages for their story. I do have a feeling that we'll get a little more of them in the next book but the ending did leave me feeling a little unsatisfied. Overall though I really enjoyed this book. The events of the previous two novels come to a head in Iron Kin the events that take place will change the landscape of the Half-Light world.
Full of drama, intrigue and romance, Iron Kin is an action packed book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The Half-Light City balances on a precipice and the next battle determine whether it falls into light or darkness. I think it's Bryony's story as well, which I am pretty excited about.
Fun, fun series!
This one is probably actually closer to a 3.5 star read for me. I really liked Fen and Saskia's relationship but am marking this slightly lower than the other two books in the series only because I thought that the ending was somewhat abrupt and, while not really a cliffhanger, still left a lot unresolved. Fen and Saskia also got a little shortchanged I think near the end as Half-Light City politics took center stage and their relationship got pushed to the side. I understand why that happened but I think they deserved a few more pages for their story. I do have a feeling that we'll get a little more of them in the next book but the ending did leave me feeling a little unsatisfied. Overall though I really enjoyed this book. The events of the previous two novels come to a head in Iron Kin the events that take place will change the landscape of the Half-Light world.
Full of drama, intrigue and romance, Iron Kin is an action packed book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The Half-Light City balances on a precipice and the next battle determine whether it falls into light or darkness. I think it's Bryony's story as well, which I am pretty excited about.
Fun, fun series!
January 19, 2015
I accidentally skipped from book 1 to 3 in this series, but I honestly don't think reading them in order would change my opinion of this book. It's not bottom-of-the-barrel writing quality. That's not the reason I gave it a bad score - the quality of the writing is good. I simply disliked the characters and the story. I stopped reading at page 172, right in the middle of the first sex scene, and I don't think I missed a thing. Maybe it's because I prefer urban fantasy to paranormal romance, but I HATED the first half of this book. Of all the simpering fools--I could not stand this heroine (Saskia). Worse, the first half of the book has nothing truly important happening - the characters are just biding their time waiting for the hero and heroine to fall in love while ostensibly preparing for treaty negotiations. There are some scenes to establish the hero's (Fen's) future-reading powers and his interest in the heroine, a few more to do the same for the iron-mage heroine, and one rescue from the vampires to show why the vampires might be particularly pissed with the heroine's family. 172 pages of the heroine giving herself pep talks and acting the brat. I couldn't stand it.
May 26, 2015
As a series, I have really enjoyed the blend of Fae, Vampire, Shifters and Magic users that exist in this world. It is a very unique blend that includes a touch of steampunk to the mix. The first two books are a bit more self contained than this one. You absolutely must know what has happened in those to really understand and grasp some of the underlying plot lines in this book.
The focus on this book is Saskia, a metalmage, and Fen, a mixed breed seer and what their part is in the overall story arc of the series as well as their relationship with each other. I’m not certain that their characters were quite as strong or interesting as the characters in the previous books, but this book wasn’t quite as clean cut as the others either. It seemed to be more stage setting for the next book than anything which necessitated a level of complexity that we haven’t seen before.
Even though the characters didn’t come across as well for me, I did really enjoy this book. There was an awful lot of stuff going on in this one and it ended on a “what the hell just happened” note that made it a bit frustrating with where it actually ended as I just wasn’t ready to be finished yet.
The focus on this book is Saskia, a metalmage, and Fen, a mixed breed seer and what their part is in the overall story arc of the series as well as their relationship with each other. I’m not certain that their characters were quite as strong or interesting as the characters in the previous books, but this book wasn’t quite as clean cut as the others either. It seemed to be more stage setting for the next book than anything which necessitated a level of complexity that we haven’t seen before.
Even though the characters didn’t come across as well for me, I did really enjoy this book. There was an awful lot of stuff going on in this one and it ended on a “what the hell just happened” note that made it a bit frustrating with where it actually ended as I just wasn’t ready to be finished yet.
December 28, 2013
Book 3 in The Half-Light City.
Half-Light City is a dangerous place, with Fae, Blood, Beast Kind, and humans all fighting for power. They have a tentative peace that is enforced by the Fae Veiled Queen, but it's time to renew the treaty, and some of these supernatural factions would prefer that the peace be broken.
Saskia is the sister of a sunmage and a Templar, and a metalmage. She's firmly on the side of the law. Fen, part Fae and Beast, lives in a much shadier fashion, but his visions make him an useful pawn in the war. And for some reason, Saskia's touch silences the visions--which Fen can't control and cause him excruciating pain, so the two are forced together despite their disparate backgrounds. If they want to save the city from war, they'll both have to take risks.
Another sweet romance in a city in turmoil, tossing together contrasting people, with buckets of chemistry and verbal sparring. As the city situation continues to escalate, romance seems like a harder sell, but it seems like there might be more new relationships in the next books.
Half-Light City is a dangerous place, with Fae, Blood, Beast Kind, and humans all fighting for power. They have a tentative peace that is enforced by the Fae Veiled Queen, but it's time to renew the treaty, and some of these supernatural factions would prefer that the peace be broken.
Saskia is the sister of a sunmage and a Templar, and a metalmage. She's firmly on the side of the law. Fen, part Fae and Beast, lives in a much shadier fashion, but his visions make him an useful pawn in the war. And for some reason, Saskia's touch silences the visions--which Fen can't control and cause him excruciating pain, so the two are forced together despite their disparate backgrounds. If they want to save the city from war, they'll both have to take risks.
Another sweet romance in a city in turmoil, tossing together contrasting people, with buckets of chemistry and verbal sparring. As the city situation continues to escalate, romance seems like a harder sell, but it seems like there might be more new relationships in the next books.
May 25, 2013
Won in a good reads first reads giveaway
I really loved the background to this book. The world is like urban yet distant with hints of steampunk and myth. The characters all were pretty unique and I really enjoyed them. I really like books that can combine the elements i like and tell a good story. Next time i read this book i want to have read the others first because i was a bit lost.
When the book first starts i was pulled in but i grew to dislike Fen. His personality was like bad boy and im never really a fan of real bad boy types. I did not really know who he was though or who he was talking with because i did not read the other books. This review is based off me only having read this book of the series.
I would recommend others who wanted to read this start in order like i want to. I do really love the overall theme the metal mages and such are really neat. I will try and re-write this review after i read the first two books and then judge this one more fairly. All in all it was good though i was really lost in parts.
I really loved the background to this book. The world is like urban yet distant with hints of steampunk and myth. The characters all were pretty unique and I really enjoyed them. I really like books that can combine the elements i like and tell a good story. Next time i read this book i want to have read the others first because i was a bit lost.
When the book first starts i was pulled in but i grew to dislike Fen. His personality was like bad boy and im never really a fan of real bad boy types. I did not really know who he was though or who he was talking with because i did not read the other books. This review is based off me only having read this book of the series.
I would recommend others who wanted to read this start in order like i want to. I do really love the overall theme the metal mages and such are really neat. I will try and re-write this review after i read the first two books and then judge this one more fairly. All in all it was good though i was really lost in parts.
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