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Shadows of Asphodel #2
Storms of Lazarus
Sometimes escape is impossible. Sometimes love isn't enough.
1913. Christmas Eve. Ardis hardly expects a quiet holiday with Wendel, between fleeing Constantinople and hiding from an ancient society of assassins. And they owe a debt to a certain archmage.
In Königsberg, Prussia, they work with Konstantin on the next evolution of Project Lazarus. Wendel once called Königsberg home, the city now besieged by the Russians and their clockwork engines of war. This may be Wendel’s last chance to save his family and find redemption, but he's tormented by nightmares and tempted by laudanum. Ardis fears her love isn’t enough to save Wendel. Her hands are full piloting the automatons, and she's terrified to tell him a secret of her own. Will they—and their love—survive the storms of war?
1913. Christmas Eve. Ardis hardly expects a quiet holiday with Wendel, between fleeing Constantinople and hiding from an ancient society of assassins. And they owe a debt to a certain archmage.
In Königsberg, Prussia, they work with Konstantin on the next evolution of Project Lazarus. Wendel once called Königsberg home, the city now besieged by the Russians and their clockwork engines of war. This may be Wendel’s last chance to save his family and find redemption, but he's tormented by nightmares and tempted by laudanum. Ardis fears her love isn’t enough to save Wendel. Her hands are full piloting the automatons, and she's terrified to tell him a secret of her own. Will they—and their love—survive the storms of war?
277 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2014
16 people are currently reading
2529 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kincy
26 books710 followersKaren Kincy writes books when she isn’t writing code. She has a BA in Linguistics and Literature from The Evergreen State College, and an MS in Computational Linguistics from the University of Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 18, 2015
A GOOD SEQUEL TO THE FIRST ONE!
I enjoyed this a lot!
4.5!
This book picks up to where the first book ended. It started with action right away! They get captured, get rescued and get thrown right away to battle again!
Damn! I think that's what's so good about this series. You'll be surprised all the time with all the action and thrill!
Now let's talk about what happened to our characters...
Ardis is still the bad ass that she is in book one. However, this time, she's softer in my opinion. A lot of her thoughts are centered on Wendel and keeping him safe as well as sticking with him no matter what. I love it that she's not afraid to show how she feels now and she's more confident.
On the other hand... Wendel, my Wendel.. He's still charming, humorous, very perceptive and very attuned to Ardis. Sadly, he is having some flashbacks of that horrible night from the first book. He's riddled with nightmares and it's like he can't even catch a break with all that's happening. One thing that I'm concerned about here is the depth of Wendel's personal issues. I'm worried that it will eat him all up. Ardis is always there to catch him when he's in a bad place though, so I guess it's alright. Frankly speaking, I don't like Wendel's family. They sort of abandoned him, then they make him feel worse by not treating him as a part of the family when they get together. I would rather he doesn't see them again next time. They hurt him emotionally, so I'm just not a fan of that. His brother's an okay guy though.
Anyway, these two get involved in the war.
What happens when an assassin and a mercenary double to fight for a country? Honestly, I'm quite surprised that they even want to help, but that's just these two. Always happy to help, plus they need money since Wendel is broke! Haha! They always have each others' backs. I admit, I was afraid that one of them will get hurt again, but no. They're good! Some mysteries were uncovered, but there are even more to be revealed I hope!
Oh by the way, Konstantin... is so adorable here!!! Really adorable with his blushing face and his stuttering, yet proper speech. I like his smart mind and his bashful quirks. :)
More characters are introduced, so watch out for that! ^_^
I also recommed watching out for the ending!!
ahhhhhh!!!
It will blow your minds!!!!
Soooo there. I am so happy for them. I know there will be complications in their future, but they're both steady, so I believe they can do anything together!
All in all, this one's a good read indeed!
I enjoyed this a lot!
4.5!
This book picks up to where the first book ended. It started with action right away! They get captured, get rescued and get thrown right away to battle again!
Damn! I think that's what's so good about this series. You'll be surprised all the time with all the action and thrill!
Now let's talk about what happened to our characters...
Ardis is still the bad ass that she is in book one. However, this time, she's softer in my opinion. A lot of her thoughts are centered on Wendel and keeping him safe as well as sticking with him no matter what. I love it that she's not afraid to show how she feels now and she's more confident.
On the other hand... Wendel, my Wendel.. He's still charming, humorous, very perceptive and very attuned to Ardis. Sadly, he is having some flashbacks of that horrible night from the first book. He's riddled with nightmares and it's like he can't even catch a break with all that's happening. One thing that I'm concerned about here is the depth of Wendel's personal issues. I'm worried that it will eat him all up. Ardis is always there to catch him when he's in a bad place though, so I guess it's alright. Frankly speaking, I don't like Wendel's family. They sort of abandoned him, then they make him feel worse by not treating him as a part of the family when they get together. I would rather he doesn't see them again next time. They hurt him emotionally, so I'm just not a fan of that. His brother's an okay guy though.
Anyway, these two get involved in the war.
What happens when an assassin and a mercenary double to fight for a country? Honestly, I'm quite surprised that they even want to help, but that's just these two. Always happy to help, plus they need money since Wendel is broke! Haha! They always have each others' backs. I admit, I was afraid that one of them will get hurt again, but no. They're good! Some mysteries were uncovered, but there are even more to be revealed I hope!
Oh by the way, Konstantin... is so adorable here!!! Really adorable with his blushing face and his stuttering, yet proper speech. I like his smart mind and his bashful quirks. :)
More characters are introduced, so watch out for that! ^_^
I also recommed watching out for the ending!!
ahhhhhh!!!
It will blow your minds!!!!
Soooo there. I am so happy for them. I know there will be complications in their future, but they're both steady, so I believe they can do anything together!
All in all, this one's a good read indeed!
August 14, 2014
I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was to start this second book in Kincy's series. The first book blew me away, it was completely unexpected and I loved every single thing about it. And as my first foray into dieselpunk, once I became immersed in the world Kincy created, I knew I was hooked and I wanted more.
To see Wendel and Ardis again was a real treat and to see them together as a team? I don't even have words for how great it was too see them together. To see them work side by side and trust one another.
There is just something about the two of them together that feels right, that is right. Add in a touch of the paranormal and you have one heck of a fun and entertaining series and I didn't hesitate as I dove right into book two.
Once again Kincy captured my attention and held it with the clockwork creatures and inventions that riddles the pages of this novel and the developing romance between two certain main characters was just the icing on the cake.
I am so very excited with where this series is going and seriously, I want more. The adventure, action, the plot, the romance, all of it. I can't wait to see what awaits them in the next installment and I for one, will be right there to read it when it comes out.
To see Wendel and Ardis again was a real treat and to see them together as a team? I don't even have words for how great it was too see them together. To see them work side by side and trust one another.
There is just something about the two of them together that feels right, that is right. Add in a touch of the paranormal and you have one heck of a fun and entertaining series and I didn't hesitate as I dove right into book two.
Once again Kincy captured my attention and held it with the clockwork creatures and inventions that riddles the pages of this novel and the developing romance between two certain main characters was just the icing on the cake.
I am so very excited with where this series is going and seriously, I want more. The adventure, action, the plot, the romance, all of it. I can't wait to see what awaits them in the next installment and I for one, will be right there to read it when it comes out.
September 19, 2015
This second installment picks up from where the first book left off. It is definitely a series that should be read in order as far as I can see. The enchanting steampunk and magical world, endearing characters, excitement, a dash of intrigued, and a love story continue to engage me in this sequel.
Ardis and Wendel survived the big showdown with the powerful leader of the assassins that held Wendel in their control for so long. Now they are probably considered outlaws by the Archmages and definitely have the wrong type of attention from the assassins. Now there only hope is to join Archmage and technomancer, Constantin, on the lines of battle in Prussia against the invading Russians. Wendel's necromancer magic is needed to help Constantin power the machines needed to defend Russia.
Wendel is reluctant at best to return to his homeland where he will likely encounter the royal family that sold him and shunned him for his magic. He is also fighting internal demons that threatened to bury him in nightmares and despair after his deadly fall from the assassin's tower. Ardis doesn't want to lose him and is willing to do what it takes to ween him off his chosen forms of co-dependency. She has a secret that she fears and is also afraid that Wendel can't accept.
Meanwhile, the Russians send sophisticated weaponry against them including a fierce clockwork metal dragon. It will take Constantin, Ardis, and Wendel together to fight off this new, lethal threat.
The story clipped along at a rapid, steady pace delivering equal parts excitement and character development. I enjoyed the reunion with favorite characters and their world along with the introduction to newer characters like Captain Himmel and the broadening of the steampunk world to take to the sky in airships.
I confess that I speculated even while reading the first book of a reunion with Wendel and his parents so seeing the action move to Prussia and include the royals there was great. While Ardis continues to be the sole narrator, Wendel is very much an equally important character. Through her eyes, his weaknesses and strengths are equally exposed. The time with his family is painful and not swept under the rug quickly which I was glad for.
Ardis' own newly complicated life with the secret she carries was an interesting addition to the story. Ardis is a strong, highly skilled and complex woman, but she too, had her personal crisis moments which humanized her and I enjoyed the progress she made working through things.
The war element was exciting and dangerous, but though focal wasn't the only focus. The assassins are still on their tail and that left Wendel and Ardis having to watch their backs as well as the frontal attacks from the Russians.
The world building that includes a blend of magic and steampunk was again, well-balanced and fit well with the story. I loved how it even served to power the action and intrigue plots instead of just being present.
In summary, the sequel kept up the good momentum of the first book and I look forward to continuing with this spellbinding series. Those who can enjoy Steampunk blended with the paranormal with a faster-paced action line and well-developed characters need to give this series a try.
My thanks to Curiosity Quills for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ardis and Wendel survived the big showdown with the powerful leader of the assassins that held Wendel in their control for so long. Now they are probably considered outlaws by the Archmages and definitely have the wrong type of attention from the assassins. Now there only hope is to join Archmage and technomancer, Constantin, on the lines of battle in Prussia against the invading Russians. Wendel's necromancer magic is needed to help Constantin power the machines needed to defend Russia.
Wendel is reluctant at best to return to his homeland where he will likely encounter the royal family that sold him and shunned him for his magic. He is also fighting internal demons that threatened to bury him in nightmares and despair after his deadly fall from the assassin's tower. Ardis doesn't want to lose him and is willing to do what it takes to ween him off his chosen forms of co-dependency. She has a secret that she fears and is also afraid that Wendel can't accept.
Meanwhile, the Russians send sophisticated weaponry against them including a fierce clockwork metal dragon. It will take Constantin, Ardis, and Wendel together to fight off this new, lethal threat.
The story clipped along at a rapid, steady pace delivering equal parts excitement and character development. I enjoyed the reunion with favorite characters and their world along with the introduction to newer characters like Captain Himmel and the broadening of the steampunk world to take to the sky in airships.
I confess that I speculated even while reading the first book of a reunion with Wendel and his parents so seeing the action move to Prussia and include the royals there was great. While Ardis continues to be the sole narrator, Wendel is very much an equally important character. Through her eyes, his weaknesses and strengths are equally exposed. The time with his family is painful and not swept under the rug quickly which I was glad for.
Ardis' own newly complicated life with the secret she carries was an interesting addition to the story. Ardis is a strong, highly skilled and complex woman, but she too, had her personal crisis moments which humanized her and I enjoyed the progress she made working through things.
The war element was exciting and dangerous, but though focal wasn't the only focus. The assassins are still on their tail and that left Wendel and Ardis having to watch their backs as well as the frontal attacks from the Russians.
The world building that includes a blend of magic and steampunk was again, well-balanced and fit well with the story. I loved how it even served to power the action and intrigue plots instead of just being present.
In summary, the sequel kept up the good momentum of the first book and I look forward to continuing with this spellbinding series. Those who can enjoy Steampunk blended with the paranormal with a faster-paced action line and well-developed characters need to give this series a try.
My thanks to Curiosity Quills for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2015
*~I received this book for free from (Publisher) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.~*
*Genre* Steampunk, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Storms of Lazarus is the second installment in the Shadows of Asphodel series by author Karen Kincy. Things have moved ahead a bit since I read Shadows of Asphodel, the first book in the series. Ardis and Wendel are each dealing with the aftermath of what happened in Constantinople, and Wendel is having difficulty sleeping without nightmares. Fleeing across Europe, Ardis and Wendel reunites with Archmage Konstantin, who really needs Wendel's help in reviving Project Lazarus before the Russians run across Persia and Austria-Hungry. That means that Wendel has to face his ghosts when he returns home to Königsberg, Prussia to face his family who turned him out and disavowed him.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews August 1, 2015. Link to Follow*
Published July 13th 2014 by Createspace
*Genre* Steampunk, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Storms of Lazarus is the second installment in the Shadows of Asphodel series by author Karen Kincy. Things have moved ahead a bit since I read Shadows of Asphodel, the first book in the series. Ardis and Wendel are each dealing with the aftermath of what happened in Constantinople, and Wendel is having difficulty sleeping without nightmares. Fleeing across Europe, Ardis and Wendel reunites with Archmage Konstantin, who really needs Wendel's help in reviving Project Lazarus before the Russians run across Persia and Austria-Hungry. That means that Wendel has to face his ghosts when he returns home to Königsberg, Prussia to face his family who turned him out and disavowed him.
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews August 1, 2015. Link to Follow*
Published July 13th 2014 by Createspace
October 12, 2017
Wow, what a roller coaster ride! This picks up right where book one ended and man, the action was intense. There's a lot going on but I was thrilled to be along for the ride. I can't say more or I'll give it away. Just trust me, you'll love this one! Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
August 18, 2014
Review also posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
Shadows of Asphodel was a real discovery last year. It was a mix of different things which brought together a really unique and interesting story. As I said in my review it was set in time really familiar to all of us, but at the same time it was so different. So, we can say that I had a really high hopes of Storms of Lazarus. The cover didn't disappoint, let me tell you that.
The story wasn't a disappointment either, I'm happy to tell you that, but it wasn't as great as Shadows of Asphodel was. What really made me happy here is that this one gave us a disclosure I really wanted to see. I'm a happy camper now. It was great to see and read about Ardis' past and get to know her fully and also it was a really good thing to see Wendel being thrown in for him unusual tasks. The story also still had that great mix of reality and paranormal, but I might say that this one introduced even more interesting things in paranormal aspect and it still all functioned together.
What I did have problems with are actually two things first is a countless mention of someone blushing. I wouldn't have problems with that if we talked about a girl. It didn't fit the character and I think it could have been mentioned less times.
Now this leads us to another thing, which is totally on me. This won't bug many people, but you must understand that Nikola Tesla is considered as one of the biggest and greatest and with all that most important persona we ever had. So you really get to learn a lot about him, regardless of your attitude towards engineering and his inventions. So he was a really peaceful man who was hippie before hippie movement was even invented and therefore he wasn't really the best person you put into a political intrigue. For me his character felt really off the place here.
Despite that I have to say that this story was still really interesting and nicely written. I'm really glad that we have got a nice conclusion.
Shadows of Asphodel was a real discovery last year. It was a mix of different things which brought together a really unique and interesting story. As I said in my review it was set in time really familiar to all of us, but at the same time it was so different. So, we can say that I had a really high hopes of Storms of Lazarus. The cover didn't disappoint, let me tell you that.
The story wasn't a disappointment either, I'm happy to tell you that, but it wasn't as great as Shadows of Asphodel was. What really made me happy here is that this one gave us a disclosure I really wanted to see. I'm a happy camper now. It was great to see and read about Ardis' past and get to know her fully and also it was a really good thing to see Wendel being thrown in for him unusual tasks. The story also still had that great mix of reality and paranormal, but I might say that this one introduced even more interesting things in paranormal aspect and it still all functioned together.
What I did have problems with are actually two things first is a countless mention of someone blushing. I wouldn't have problems with that if we talked about a girl. It didn't fit the character and I think it could have been mentioned less times.
Now this leads us to another thing, which is totally on me. This won't bug many people, but you must understand that Nikola Tesla is considered as one of the biggest and greatest and with all that most important persona we ever had. So you really get to learn a lot about him, regardless of your attitude towards engineering and his inventions. So he was a really peaceful man who was hippie before hippie movement was even invented and therefore he wasn't really the best person you put into a political intrigue. For me his character felt really off the place here.
Despite that I have to say that this story was still really interesting and nicely written. I'm really glad that we have got a nice conclusion.
September 14, 2015
This is a pretty snappy steampunk series, ladies and gents. It's just so fluid, and the tech is not in the face obvious. It's a well integrated part of everyone's life. I also love how organically it co-exists with magic in this world.
Wendel and Ardis is a couple we met in Shadows of Asphodel. Thrown together by chance, an assassin necromancer and a mercenary fugitive manage to thwart powerful enemies in a conspiracy plot. Now they are on the run from Wendel's masters. Not only that, but Prussia and Russia are on the brink of war, and Ardis, who works for archmages of Vienna is called back to serve them in Project Lazarus.
There are four main characters in this book, Konstantin, Theodore, Wendel and Ardis, and while the action mostly concentrates on the last two, these four work well together. Just find the strip-poker scene! *grinning* Wendel and Ardis's relationship also progresses. I really enjoyed their interactions. Both are practical to boot, flippant and very honest with each other. They also know how to work on their insecurities and how to admit they were wrong. This feels like a solid couple.
Expect a breezy read full of airship chases, clockwork dragons, steampunkish robots, Tesla, assassins and some princes thrown in just to spice things up. Easy, entertaining and fun, recommended for the fans of Melanie Karsak and Melanie Card.
Wendel and Ardis is a couple we met in Shadows of Asphodel. Thrown together by chance, an assassin necromancer and a mercenary fugitive manage to thwart powerful enemies in a conspiracy plot. Now they are on the run from Wendel's masters. Not only that, but Prussia and Russia are on the brink of war, and Ardis, who works for archmages of Vienna is called back to serve them in Project Lazarus.
There are four main characters in this book, Konstantin, Theodore, Wendel and Ardis, and while the action mostly concentrates on the last two, these four work well together. Just find the strip-poker scene! *grinning* Wendel and Ardis's relationship also progresses. I really enjoyed their interactions. Both are practical to boot, flippant and very honest with each other. They also know how to work on their insecurities and how to admit they were wrong. This feels like a solid couple.
Expect a breezy read full of airship chases, clockwork dragons, steampunkish robots, Tesla, assassins and some princes thrown in just to spice things up. Easy, entertaining and fun, recommended for the fans of Melanie Karsak and Melanie Card.
July 26, 2015
Review: STORMS OF LAZARUS by Karen Kincy [Shadows of Asphodel #2]
If you've read SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL (the first book in this set), then you will surely not want to miss STORMS OF LAZARUS! Lovers of Steampunk, aficionados of YA/NA fantasy, devotees of alternate history plottings, gather 'round. This is WWI as you've never experienced it, with clockwork and automatons and oh joy! Necromancers. Female mercenary Ardis and her dead-not dead love, Necromancer Wendel, are still movin' on and keepin' on, still on the run from that secret assassin society, still trying to find solutions for Wendel...but geez, it's Christmas Eve in the snow, 'twould be so good to be with family, unhunted and happy...
If you've read SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL (the first book in this set), then you will surely not want to miss STORMS OF LAZARUS! Lovers of Steampunk, aficionados of YA/NA fantasy, devotees of alternate history plottings, gather 'round. This is WWI as you've never experienced it, with clockwork and automatons and oh joy! Necromancers. Female mercenary Ardis and her dead-not dead love, Necromancer Wendel, are still movin' on and keepin' on, still on the run from that secret assassin society, still trying to find solutions for Wendel...but geez, it's Christmas Eve in the snow, 'twould be so good to be with family, unhunted and happy...
August 14, 2014
Disclaimer: Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. I'm so happy I loved this one, too, because honest reviews when you don't like something can really stink to write. Phew!
When I read book one in this series, SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL, I could not stop thinking about Wendel for days. I totally fell in love with this character as well as his lover, Ardis. (You can see my review of Shadows here: http://bit.ly/1t0tP0o And it wasn't just the characters, but the book itself. I didn't mind how quickly Ardis & Wendel fell for one another. I was so wrapped up in her backstory, the current plot, etc. And besides...what you term insta-love in books is "love at first sight" in real life!
So, knowing that I really enjoyed the first book, you can well imagine my excitement for this second book. And, I'm happy to say, Karen Kincy does NOT disappoint. This book picks up mere days after the events in Shadows of Asphodel and the relationship development between Ardis & Wendel is brilliant, especially after what has transpired. They find themselves with Konstantin again and heading towards Wendel's home, Königsberg.
Karen really keeps the magic alive with plenty of clockwork and technomancy and these bits of historical figures jumping in along with mass preparation for war. The wasps and dragon are absolutely brilliant and so well-written that you will have no problem imagining them in your mind, maybe even feeling the swoop of wings! With plenty of love and sexual attraction, the romances in the book are satisfying because they are multi-dimensional with problems and complications as opposed to just happy happy joy joy fluff. I'm not saying that I reject the happy happy romances, but I connect better with the relationships that demonstrate problems and solutions.
While I find the book and series as a whole satisfying, there is so much more I want to explore and learn about and I'm already DYING for the next book. I want to watch and see what becomes of the relationships in the book. I want to know more about Ardis's sword. I want more Konstantin & Himmel. I want more on Krampus because he intrigues me SO MUCH and I know he's not just what he seems!
I could live in this world for a while. A long while. I hope Karen Kincy keeps writing in this series. I hope to be reading her for a long, long time to come.
When I read book one in this series, SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL, I could not stop thinking about Wendel for days. I totally fell in love with this character as well as his lover, Ardis. (You can see my review of Shadows here: http://bit.ly/1t0tP0o And it wasn't just the characters, but the book itself. I didn't mind how quickly Ardis & Wendel fell for one another. I was so wrapped up in her backstory, the current plot, etc. And besides...what you term insta-love in books is "love at first sight" in real life!
So, knowing that I really enjoyed the first book, you can well imagine my excitement for this second book. And, I'm happy to say, Karen Kincy does NOT disappoint. This book picks up mere days after the events in Shadows of Asphodel and the relationship development between Ardis & Wendel is brilliant, especially after what has transpired. They find themselves with Konstantin again and heading towards Wendel's home, Königsberg.
Karen really keeps the magic alive with plenty of clockwork and technomancy and these bits of historical figures jumping in along with mass preparation for war. The wasps and dragon are absolutely brilliant and so well-written that you will have no problem imagining them in your mind, maybe even feeling the swoop of wings! With plenty of love and sexual attraction, the romances in the book are satisfying because they are multi-dimensional with problems and complications as opposed to just happy happy joy joy fluff. I'm not saying that I reject the happy happy romances, but I connect better with the relationships that demonstrate problems and solutions.
While I find the book and series as a whole satisfying, there is so much more I want to explore and learn about and I'm already DYING for the next book. I want to watch and see what becomes of the relationships in the book. I want to know more about Ardis's sword. I want more Konstantin & Himmel. I want more on Krampus because he intrigues me SO MUCH and I know he's not just what he seems!
I could live in this world for a while. A long while. I hope Karen Kincy keeps writing in this series. I hope to be reading her for a long, long time to come.
August 7, 2015
***I received this book free from the publishers in exchange for an honest review***
this was my first adventure into steam punk or as it is referred too diesel punk and while I loved the writing style and just the sheer wonder of this book something just sort of felt missing for me. Although I loved how much the characters grew in this book compared to the first one where I didn't really connect with them. Wendal and Ardis are great in this one there was so much going on between them both, for one they are both suffering in there own way after the events of book one, I liked getting to see there scars so to speak it makes them so much more believable. you really see a different side to Wendal in this book he’s so much more raw and stripped back of not all but most of his cockiness. Ardis also has her demons in this one and I definitely liked seeing her more vulnerable. As always I loved Konstantin in this, I just took to him even more in this one and I loved the moments with him and the himmel, they were so sweet As I said at the start the sheer world building and technology building in this is amazing the clockwork dragon is fantastic along with the clockwork wasps and larva’s just brilliant and make this book a thrilling read. All in all I really did enjoy this at times it has a lot going for it vampires, clockwork dragons, wasps magic deathly poisons but in the end something just didn't click with me I think it was the steam punk or diesel punk side of it that I'm not so sure about. But if you like steam punk you will definitely like this.
this was my first adventure into steam punk or as it is referred too diesel punk and while I loved the writing style and just the sheer wonder of this book something just sort of felt missing for me. Although I loved how much the characters grew in this book compared to the first one where I didn't really connect with them. Wendal and Ardis are great in this one there was so much going on between them both, for one they are both suffering in there own way after the events of book one, I liked getting to see there scars so to speak it makes them so much more believable. you really see a different side to Wendal in this book he’s so much more raw and stripped back of not all but most of his cockiness. Ardis also has her demons in this one and I definitely liked seeing her more vulnerable. As always I loved Konstantin in this, I just took to him even more in this one and I loved the moments with him and the himmel, they were so sweet As I said at the start the sheer world building and technology building in this is amazing the clockwork dragon is fantastic along with the clockwork wasps and larva’s just brilliant and make this book a thrilling read. All in all I really did enjoy this at times it has a lot going for it vampires, clockwork dragons, wasps magic deathly poisons but in the end something just didn't click with me I think it was the steam punk or diesel punk side of it that I'm not so sure about. But if you like steam punk you will definitely like this.
September 6, 2015
This book was much better than the first one of the series. Odd that the Big Bad of the first book didn't really show much in this book.
There did seem to be more character development and again, the setting was pretty awesome. Some things were not a happiness for me, but it was a lot better than my disappointment with the first book.
I still wouldn't recommend the first book to anyone, but this book I would recommend. I guess it would help to know the background from the first book, but I don't think it is really necessary. Three ok stars. Not spectacular and not horrible.
My thanks to NetGalley and Curiosity Quills Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
There did seem to be more character development and again, the setting was pretty awesome. Some things were not a happiness for me, but it was a lot better than my disappointment with the first book.
I still wouldn't recommend the first book to anyone, but this book I would recommend. I guess it would help to know the background from the first book, but I don't think it is really necessary. Three ok stars. Not spectacular and not horrible.
My thanks to NetGalley and Curiosity Quills Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
August 18, 2014
Three and a half stars: A solid sequel with plenty of steampunk gadgets and gizmos.
Ardis can't shake the horrible memories of the night Wendel died from her mind. Wendel is also struggling with the events from that night, even though he doesn't remember dying, he is haunted at night and can't sleep. Christmas is approaching and Ardis and Wendel are hoping for a quiet reprieve. No such luck. There airship is attacked by a large clockwork dragon, and once again they are drawn into the conflict. Will Ardis and Wendel escape death once again?
What I Liked:
*I was excited that this book was packed full of steampunk gadgets and gizmos. I am a reader that always enjoys unique steampunk contraptions, and this book excelled in that department. It has clockwork wasps, a giant clockwork dragon as well as automatons. It is worth reading for the clockwork dragon alone.
I thought the pace of this one was excellent. It moves quickly with plenty of action. There is rarely a dull moment in this book. Be prepared for some exciting battle scenes... once again, I need to mention clockwork dragon.
*Wendel was not the easiest character to like in the first book, while I still had some issues with him in this sequel, I am pleased to see significant growth. As a necromancer who was estranged from his family at a young age and trained to kill, he has grown apathetic and reckless. He hates himself and what he is forced to do. Since Ardis rescued him, he is learning to be more conscientious and caring. He isn't quite as callous and cold. Ardis is a good influence on him. Granted, he still has a ways to go as he continues to engage in self destructive behavior. I am hopeful that he will continue to transform into a more positive person.
*I enjoyed getting more of the back story on both Ardis and Wendel. There are several flashback scenes that take the reader back to San Fransisco and Ardis' past. Wendel is confronted with his past in present day when he returns to his family's castle for dinner at the request of the archmage. It was interesting to see the dynamic between Wendel and his parents and siblings. After this encounter, it was easy to see why Wendel was cold and uncaring. However, there was significant movement in a new direction as far as Wendel and his family are concerned, and I am interested to see how things will develop down the road.
*The romance is still taking its time to grow and mature. I appreciated that the couple had to tackle some big issues in their new relationship, one that is life changing in fact. They manage to take it in stride and grow even closer. Granted there are some moments of jealously, and some misunderstandings, but nothing of the irritating sort.
*I loved that after a chaotic and dangerous climax, things settle out into a neat finish. No cliffhangers or lots of unanswered questions. Instead, there is a solid ending with the promise of more adventure to come. It is so nice to get a second book in a series without a cliffhanger.
And The Not So Much:
*The female characters are far more manly and fierce than the male characters. In fact, one of the men, Konstantin, becomes exceedingly annoying as the book goes on. His behavior is more in line with a sixteen year old girl as he is always blushing and acting awkward. There is rarely a scene in the book where he isn't flustered and turning red over something. Then there is this weird sexual vibe between all the men, Wendell included. They all seem to be attracted to one another. It was fine as far as Konstantin went because he was clearly gay, but I struggled with Wendel. He loses points as a swoon worthy male lead because he keeps running into men from his past with whom he has had an affair. I get the past is the past, but then there is a scene where he displays some attraction to the air ship pilot. Really? Aren't you with Ardis? It is obvious that Wendel has issues with monogamy and his sexual orientation.
*Speaking of Ardis, I struggled with the way she just accepted that Wendel had had affairs with men in his past. If I were in her shoes I would be very leery. Especially after the whole thing with the vampire.
*I loved in the first book all the demonstrations of Wendel's necromancer powers. He was always raising the dead to fight. This time out, there is very little opportunity for him to wield his gift. I longed for more necromancer action.
*This is definitely an adult book as there are numerous sex scenes. One of them became a bit too explicit and detailed for my taste.
Storms of Lazarus is a solid sequel. This is a book that is packed with action, adventure and plenty of clockwork gadgets and gizmos. If you enjoy steampunk romance, this is an entertaining and unique series to check out. I will be interested to see how Wendel and Ardis fare in the third book.
I received a copy of this book as part of a tour. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Ardis can't shake the horrible memories of the night Wendel died from her mind. Wendel is also struggling with the events from that night, even though he doesn't remember dying, he is haunted at night and can't sleep. Christmas is approaching and Ardis and Wendel are hoping for a quiet reprieve. No such luck. There airship is attacked by a large clockwork dragon, and once again they are drawn into the conflict. Will Ardis and Wendel escape death once again?
What I Liked:
*I was excited that this book was packed full of steampunk gadgets and gizmos. I am a reader that always enjoys unique steampunk contraptions, and this book excelled in that department. It has clockwork wasps, a giant clockwork dragon as well as automatons. It is worth reading for the clockwork dragon alone.
I thought the pace of this one was excellent. It moves quickly with plenty of action. There is rarely a dull moment in this book. Be prepared for some exciting battle scenes... once again, I need to mention clockwork dragon.
*Wendel was not the easiest character to like in the first book, while I still had some issues with him in this sequel, I am pleased to see significant growth. As a necromancer who was estranged from his family at a young age and trained to kill, he has grown apathetic and reckless. He hates himself and what he is forced to do. Since Ardis rescued him, he is learning to be more conscientious and caring. He isn't quite as callous and cold. Ardis is a good influence on him. Granted, he still has a ways to go as he continues to engage in self destructive behavior. I am hopeful that he will continue to transform into a more positive person.
*I enjoyed getting more of the back story on both Ardis and Wendel. There are several flashback scenes that take the reader back to San Fransisco and Ardis' past. Wendel is confronted with his past in present day when he returns to his family's castle for dinner at the request of the archmage. It was interesting to see the dynamic between Wendel and his parents and siblings. After this encounter, it was easy to see why Wendel was cold and uncaring. However, there was significant movement in a new direction as far as Wendel and his family are concerned, and I am interested to see how things will develop down the road.
*The romance is still taking its time to grow and mature. I appreciated that the couple had to tackle some big issues in their new relationship, one that is life changing in fact. They manage to take it in stride and grow even closer. Granted there are some moments of jealously, and some misunderstandings, but nothing of the irritating sort.
*I loved that after a chaotic and dangerous climax, things settle out into a neat finish. No cliffhangers or lots of unanswered questions. Instead, there is a solid ending with the promise of more adventure to come. It is so nice to get a second book in a series without a cliffhanger.
And The Not So Much:
*The female characters are far more manly and fierce than the male characters. In fact, one of the men, Konstantin, becomes exceedingly annoying as the book goes on. His behavior is more in line with a sixteen year old girl as he is always blushing and acting awkward. There is rarely a scene in the book where he isn't flustered and turning red over something. Then there is this weird sexual vibe between all the men, Wendell included. They all seem to be attracted to one another. It was fine as far as Konstantin went because he was clearly gay, but I struggled with Wendel. He loses points as a swoon worthy male lead because he keeps running into men from his past with whom he has had an affair. I get the past is the past, but then there is a scene where he displays some attraction to the air ship pilot. Really? Aren't you with Ardis? It is obvious that Wendel has issues with monogamy and his sexual orientation.
*Speaking of Ardis, I struggled with the way she just accepted that Wendel had had affairs with men in his past. If I were in her shoes I would be very leery. Especially after the whole thing with the vampire.
*I loved in the first book all the demonstrations of Wendel's necromancer powers. He was always raising the dead to fight. This time out, there is very little opportunity for him to wield his gift. I longed for more necromancer action.
*This is definitely an adult book as there are numerous sex scenes. One of them became a bit too explicit and detailed for my taste.
Storms of Lazarus is a solid sequel. This is a book that is packed with action, adventure and plenty of clockwork gadgets and gizmos. If you enjoy steampunk romance, this is an entertaining and unique series to check out. I will be interested to see how Wendel and Ardis fare in the third book.
I received a copy of this book as part of a tour. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
September 21, 2015
Now that the battle with the Grandmaster is behind them, Ardis and Wendel thought they were safe, for now, from the assassins from the Order. After the events from Shadows of Asphodel, seemingly everyone thought Wendel was history. Everyone except Ardis, that is. Trying to stay under the radar and avoid detection is Ardis and Wendel's priority as they make their way to Bulgaria and hopefully, refuge. Unfortunately for them, safety isn't in their future. Assassins are back with a vengeance and with the war and the Russians looming, assassins are the last thing they need.
Storms of Lazarus takes place directly after the events of Shadows of Asphodel, with Ardis and Wendel always running. Despite the danger they face at what seems like every turn, they are starting to make great strides with their relationship. That is, until Wendel's demons make their strong presence known once again. No matter how far he travels, how much he buries his past, the demons aren't something he can escape. He's definitely a hero of the tortured variety and in this installment, it's quite evident the lengths he will go to to forget. Wendel was an absolute bastard for what seems like the majority of the story, but there's hope (I hope) for him to finally break the bonds that mire him to his past. It also doesn't help that his and Arden's journey take them to Königsberg, back to the palace and the family that disowned him.
While Shadows of Asphodel still remains my favorite in this series, Storms was a good follow up to that stellar first installment. There are so many interesting things I love about this series, mainly the alternate history. Kincy throws her own spin on different, real historical events and even people, such as Nikola Tesla. I also love that the alternate world she created is based on diesel technology, clockwork devices, and most prominently, various forms of magic all centered around something very important called the Hex. She also created vibrant, dimensional characters that are strong enough as to not be overshadowed by the dynamic world she's built. Another important factor and one that I enjoy immensely is that Kincy embraces sexuality, and weaves that into this series. She's created the more mainstream heterosexual characters, but she also managed to incorporate both homosexual and bisexual characters, and I absolutely adore the diversity. Another important factor concerning sexuality is that during the time period, anything outside of heterosexual relations is oftentimes forbidden and considered illegal, so anyone caught not "conforming" is always at risk. That particular detail adds much constraint and a little bit of sadness for one certain character.
There is one element I wasn't overly fond of, and it's something concerning Ardis and Wendel. It's a plot device that I normally stay away from, but I appreciate it in this particular book. It really makes for an uncertain future for this pair, and I can't wait to see how it eventually pans out.
Bottom line -- super follow-up to Shadows of Asphodel, and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series which, based on the ending of this book, should yet again take Ardis and Wendel through various parts of the globe.
**eARC received on behalf of the publisher, Curiosity Quills Press, via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Storms of Lazarus takes place directly after the events of Shadows of Asphodel, with Ardis and Wendel always running. Despite the danger they face at what seems like every turn, they are starting to make great strides with their relationship. That is, until Wendel's demons make their strong presence known once again. No matter how far he travels, how much he buries his past, the demons aren't something he can escape. He's definitely a hero of the tortured variety and in this installment, it's quite evident the lengths he will go to to forget. Wendel was an absolute bastard for what seems like the majority of the story, but there's hope (I hope) for him to finally break the bonds that mire him to his past. It also doesn't help that his and Arden's journey take them to Königsberg, back to the palace and the family that disowned him.
While Shadows of Asphodel still remains my favorite in this series, Storms was a good follow up to that stellar first installment. There are so many interesting things I love about this series, mainly the alternate history. Kincy throws her own spin on different, real historical events and even people, such as Nikola Tesla. I also love that the alternate world she created is based on diesel technology, clockwork devices, and most prominently, various forms of magic all centered around something very important called the Hex. She also created vibrant, dimensional characters that are strong enough as to not be overshadowed by the dynamic world she's built. Another important factor and one that I enjoy immensely is that Kincy embraces sexuality, and weaves that into this series. She's created the more mainstream heterosexual characters, but she also managed to incorporate both homosexual and bisexual characters, and I absolutely adore the diversity. Another important factor concerning sexuality is that during the time period, anything outside of heterosexual relations is oftentimes forbidden and considered illegal, so anyone caught not "conforming" is always at risk. That particular detail adds much constraint and a little bit of sadness for one certain character.
There is one element I wasn't overly fond of, and it's something concerning Ardis and Wendel. It's a plot device that I normally stay away from, but I appreciate it in this particular book. It really makes for an uncertain future for this pair, and I can't wait to see how it eventually pans out.
Bottom line -- super follow-up to Shadows of Asphodel, and I can't wait to read the next installment in this series which, based on the ending of this book, should yet again take Ardis and Wendel through various parts of the globe.
**eARC received on behalf of the publisher, Curiosity Quills Press, via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 19, 2014
This is one hell of an adventure I was thrilled to go back to. I couldn't forget the main characters nor the world they lived in from the first novel, Shadows of Asphodel. So I was happy as a kitten with cream when the second book came under my greedy eyes.
Last time, Ardis and Wendel barely survived. Now, they have to do it all over again in the face of vampires, overzealous archmages, deadly technomancy, and they have to travel by zeppelin to a land about to plunge into war against the powerful Russian army. While they fight for their ill-fated romance!
It's good to be back to Quincy's writing. I like her no-nonsense, straight-to-the-point, fast-paced quality. On the other hand, it never lacks all the sensibility needed to portray the distinctive soul of her characters.
The dialogues between Ardis and Wendel are always compelling, as is their relationship. Sometimes dark, always intense, they share witty conversations, dangerous adventures and beautifully hot intimacy.
Necromancer Wendel is plagued by a nightmarish event that keeps him awake at night, while mercenary Ardis fights her fear of losing him. In the mean time, enemies pursue them relentlessly with all the might at their disposal.
Again, I'm keenly impressed by this steampunk and alternate history adventure that's brimming with action, plot twists, amazing characters and boasts a solid, funny and sensitive writing style. Everything that I loved about this rich world is back with a vengeance: the dark magic, the sarcastic and tragic personality of Wendel, courageous and smart Ardis, the war politics, the devious and traitorous assassins, the emotional turmoil. Poor Wendel suffers endlessly here due to his trauma and his family issues.
Obviously, I enjoyed myself immensely for those reasons and for the satisfying chance to know more about my favourite characters, the archmages and the Order of Asphodel. I think there's a lot more to find out however. A third foray, maybe?
Scenes keep coming that pound with fierce action and entertainment and surprises. They never cease to amaze me and I fell in love all over again with Wendel, Ardis, Konstantin, even Natalya, and a quirky pet, who all had to battle betrayal, armies, mythological creatures, pain and fear.
A couple of side points:
- too often, the after effects of a vampire's bite are minimized. Not here. I like the fact that these symptoms are taken seriously and not romanticized
- the poker game played in the zeppelin is both exhilarating and eye-opening. So unexpected!
The author manages a deeply gratifying balance between steampunk adventure and dramatic romance, witty fun and heart-wrenching loss, swashbuckling action and rich European setting. The atmosphere is almost Gothic, clearly old Europe-flavoured, but alive with dark fantasy and never-ending danger. Let's not forget the poignant, steamy love story that seeps into every page of this magnificent and epic quest. If anybody decides to bet on these books, they will be more than pleased.
Dear Karen, you wrote an awesome story. Again.
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
Last time, Ardis and Wendel barely survived. Now, they have to do it all over again in the face of vampires, overzealous archmages, deadly technomancy, and they have to travel by zeppelin to a land about to plunge into war against the powerful Russian army. While they fight for their ill-fated romance!
It's good to be back to Quincy's writing. I like her no-nonsense, straight-to-the-point, fast-paced quality. On the other hand, it never lacks all the sensibility needed to portray the distinctive soul of her characters.
The dialogues between Ardis and Wendel are always compelling, as is their relationship. Sometimes dark, always intense, they share witty conversations, dangerous adventures and beautifully hot intimacy.
Necromancer Wendel is plagued by a nightmarish event that keeps him awake at night, while mercenary Ardis fights her fear of losing him. In the mean time, enemies pursue them relentlessly with all the might at their disposal.
Again, I'm keenly impressed by this steampunk and alternate history adventure that's brimming with action, plot twists, amazing characters and boasts a solid, funny and sensitive writing style. Everything that I loved about this rich world is back with a vengeance: the dark magic, the sarcastic and tragic personality of Wendel, courageous and smart Ardis, the war politics, the devious and traitorous assassins, the emotional turmoil. Poor Wendel suffers endlessly here due to his trauma and his family issues.
Obviously, I enjoyed myself immensely for those reasons and for the satisfying chance to know more about my favourite characters, the archmages and the Order of Asphodel. I think there's a lot more to find out however. A third foray, maybe?
Scenes keep coming that pound with fierce action and entertainment and surprises. They never cease to amaze me and I fell in love all over again with Wendel, Ardis, Konstantin, even Natalya, and a quirky pet, who all had to battle betrayal, armies, mythological creatures, pain and fear.
A couple of side points:
- too often, the after effects of a vampire's bite are minimized. Not here. I like the fact that these symptoms are taken seriously and not romanticized
- the poker game played in the zeppelin is both exhilarating and eye-opening. So unexpected!
The author manages a deeply gratifying balance between steampunk adventure and dramatic romance, witty fun and heart-wrenching loss, swashbuckling action and rich European setting. The atmosphere is almost Gothic, clearly old Europe-flavoured, but alive with dark fantasy and never-ending danger. Let's not forget the poignant, steamy love story that seeps into every page of this magnificent and epic quest. If anybody decides to bet on these books, they will be more than pleased.
Dear Karen, you wrote an awesome story. Again.
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
October 6, 2014
You know whats exciting?! Reading a book and falling in love with not only the characters or the story but the scenery. While this story isnt exactly set in the best time in our world’s history. Kincy’s imagination makes it something to behold. There are so many things that I wish were actually true!
We basically start this book where we left off in the Shadows of Asphodel. Same characters but with a few more added. Adris and Wendel seem to have found their stride.. PUN INTENDED! I did love them so much more this time around and well that says a lot. Konstantine sweet jesus its like hes in a perpetual state of blush. He blushes for everything. Although Captian Himmel does give him something to blush about. See heres another thing I love about Kincy shes not afraid to have some gay or bi characters and these characters are flamboyant like most fictional gays are written Konstantine is just a normal friggen guy! Okay so anyways the gang needs to get to Prussia to stop the Russians from invading and they take a zepplin which is where we meet Cap. Himmel. On this trip some crazy shit happens. Theres clockwork wasps and dragons.. And just omg in my head they are gorgeous creatures. All silvery and shiny, very detailed and intricate. Unfortunately in a battle with the dragon the Zepplin is destroyed. Luckily they are rescued by the USS JUPITER.
They make their way to Prussia and into Wendels family home. To say his welcome was welcomed would be a complete bold faced lie! Seriously, it was a cold welcome. Once again they are attacked this time it wasnt the dragon.. But remember there are many after Wendel. The action just doesnt seem to slow down ever. Even in Adris’s dreams things are happening.. and OMG the dreams. The last one kinda freaked me out like maybe something cause Wendel and Adris to split up.. Idk. I just cant have that happen!
Really if you are a lover of books you will want this book and series really for yourself.. Our heros dont disappoint the action hell even the villians dont disappoint. My review of Shadows of Asphodel I struggled to not make it a love letter to Kincy. And I think I did a pretty bang up job, this time same issue. The amount of imagination, detail, and just love of the story completely rub off on me. I TYPICALLY dont see a movie when im reading. I take the info and it just is. RARELY do I actually really really imagine something im reading about. This usually ends at the character description BUT you know me I totally change the characters in my head. I dont know to me it says a lot about how amazing Karen Kincy is.
We basically start this book where we left off in the Shadows of Asphodel. Same characters but with a few more added. Adris and Wendel seem to have found their stride.. PUN INTENDED! I did love them so much more this time around and well that says a lot. Konstantine sweet jesus its like hes in a perpetual state of blush. He blushes for everything. Although Captian Himmel does give him something to blush about. See heres another thing I love about Kincy shes not afraid to have some gay or bi characters and these characters are flamboyant like most fictional gays are written Konstantine is just a normal friggen guy! Okay so anyways the gang needs to get to Prussia to stop the Russians from invading and they take a zepplin which is where we meet Cap. Himmel. On this trip some crazy shit happens. Theres clockwork wasps and dragons.. And just omg in my head they are gorgeous creatures. All silvery and shiny, very detailed and intricate. Unfortunately in a battle with the dragon the Zepplin is destroyed. Luckily they are rescued by the USS JUPITER.
They make their way to Prussia and into Wendels family home. To say his welcome was welcomed would be a complete bold faced lie! Seriously, it was a cold welcome. Once again they are attacked this time it wasnt the dragon.. But remember there are many after Wendel. The action just doesnt seem to slow down ever. Even in Adris’s dreams things are happening.. and OMG the dreams. The last one kinda freaked me out like maybe something cause Wendel and Adris to split up.. Idk. I just cant have that happen!
Really if you are a lover of books you will want this book and series really for yourself.. Our heros dont disappoint the action hell even the villians dont disappoint. My review of Shadows of Asphodel I struggled to not make it a love letter to Kincy. And I think I did a pretty bang up job, this time same issue. The amount of imagination, detail, and just love of the story completely rub off on me. I TYPICALLY dont see a movie when im reading. I take the info and it just is. RARELY do I actually really really imagine something im reading about. This usually ends at the character description BUT you know me I totally change the characters in my head. I dont know to me it says a lot about how amazing Karen Kincy is.
October 3, 2015
I really enjoyed the first novel in this series, THE SHADOWS OF ASPHODEL, so much so that I helped a tiny bit with Karen Kincy's Kickstarter for this novel, STORMS OF LAZARUS. While I think things were a little murky about archmages and the technomancy in the first novel, it is pretty straight forward in this novel. There is a war brewing and Wendel is needed for his necromancy powers to run the automaton army that the archmages have built. Several new characters are added to this novel but I really loved that we got to meet Wendel's family.
Wendel's family....I now understand why Wendel is so skittish and jokes about everything to do with them as if they mean nothing to him. Those scenes must have been so hard to write because they were very hard to read. I was choking people with my hands as I read. I wanted a weapon to knock someone out. And I felt like Ardis should have done so, but Ardis is much cooler headed than I am. Wendel is lucky to have her instead of me. He'd have no family left.
The funny thing about the war is that it is right on Wendel's ancestral home's doorstep. And he is asked to help the very people that have hurt him so much. But then his consolation is Ardis. The relationship is much more a forefront in this novel and a little more explicit. The banter back and forth between Ardis and Wendel is so frank during their lovemaking it makes me smirk and a little jealous at the same time. I wish I could be so direct and honest all the time. Though I am uncomfortable with love scenes with detail, I found these enjoyable because of the honesty and lack of drama. The banter continued out of the bedroom as well and made the relationship between Ardis and Wendel feel real rather than contrived for a plot device.
So now I will say, I loved this second novel in the series! I think it is completed though there is always room for more adventure. It has a definite ending which I need as a reader. The story moves quickly and happens over only a few days. The dieselpunk machines and magic are never over my head and really clever. I loved one in particular though I can't say. I highly recommend this novel if you read the first one and liked it, even it you thought it was so/so. If you are into steampunk, New Adult, (not too much explicit sex but some), alternate history, magic or just need to try something new, I highly recommend this series! And don't forget to enter to win a $25 Gift Card to Amazon! Then you can buy the series for yourself!
Wendel's family....I now understand why Wendel is so skittish and jokes about everything to do with them as if they mean nothing to him. Those scenes must have been so hard to write because they were very hard to read. I was choking people with my hands as I read. I wanted a weapon to knock someone out. And I felt like Ardis should have done so, but Ardis is much cooler headed than I am. Wendel is lucky to have her instead of me. He'd have no family left.
The funny thing about the war is that it is right on Wendel's ancestral home's doorstep. And he is asked to help the very people that have hurt him so much. But then his consolation is Ardis. The relationship is much more a forefront in this novel and a little more explicit. The banter back and forth between Ardis and Wendel is so frank during their lovemaking it makes me smirk and a little jealous at the same time. I wish I could be so direct and honest all the time. Though I am uncomfortable with love scenes with detail, I found these enjoyable because of the honesty and lack of drama. The banter continued out of the bedroom as well and made the relationship between Ardis and Wendel feel real rather than contrived for a plot device.
So now I will say, I loved this second novel in the series! I think it is completed though there is always room for more adventure. It has a definite ending which I need as a reader. The story moves quickly and happens over only a few days. The dieselpunk machines and magic are never over my head and really clever. I loved one in particular though I can't say. I highly recommend this novel if you read the first one and liked it, even it you thought it was so/so. If you are into steampunk, New Adult, (not too much explicit sex but some), alternate history, magic or just need to try something new, I highly recommend this series! And don't forget to enter to win a $25 Gift Card to Amazon! Then you can buy the series for yourself!
September 5, 2015
This review was originally posted on Books and Ladders
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Curiosity Quills Press in exchange for an honest review.
I read and reviewed the first in this series, Shadows of Asphodel, which I loved so I was overly eager to read and review this one too. I was a little afraid that it would be a let down compared to how much I loved the first one, but it was even better than the first in my opinion.
The relationship between Ardis and Wendel deepens in this one and they become closer than ever. I liked that there was some conflict between them about their relationship but that they were able to get past it. It made their relationship all the more realistic to me and I absolutely adore them together. In the first one I was rooting for them to get together, but in this one I was rooting for them to stay together.
The overall conflict of war is looming in this one. Everyone is trying to figure out a way to fight and stop the Russians from invading and destroying Prague, which houses Wendel's family. We got some insight to the familial relationship in the first novel, but it was expanded upon in this one, which I was grateful for. I thought it was an interesting dynamic there and I would like to see a bit more of it in the future.
Konstantin was even better this time around. He was so cute with his fanboy attitude toward Nikola Tesla. I am excited to see where his character development will go next. I see that there is a novella that focuses on him so I will for sure be checking that out (in fact, I just signed up to do a blog tour of that one too).
Ardis is a freaking bamf. Like she has her condition (saying that for spoiler-y purposes) and still takes on a clockwork dragon. She is actually amazing and I love everything about her. I wanted even more of her being awesome, but every fight scene she was right in the middle of things. What a hero.
I thought the last 20% of the book was a little rushed for how slow the pacing was at the beginning. I thought the final fight scenes could have been a bit more expanded on than they were, but overall it was still good pacing.
Overall: 4/5 stars. This one had everything I wanted in a sequel, I just thought it was a tad rushed.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Curiosity Quills Press in exchange for an honest review.
I read and reviewed the first in this series, Shadows of Asphodel, which I loved so I was overly eager to read and review this one too. I was a little afraid that it would be a let down compared to how much I loved the first one, but it was even better than the first in my opinion.
The relationship between Ardis and Wendel deepens in this one and they become closer than ever. I liked that there was some conflict between them about their relationship but that they were able to get past it. It made their relationship all the more realistic to me and I absolutely adore them together. In the first one I was rooting for them to get together, but in this one I was rooting for them to stay together.
The overall conflict of war is looming in this one. Everyone is trying to figure out a way to fight and stop the Russians from invading and destroying Prague, which houses Wendel's family. We got some insight to the familial relationship in the first novel, but it was expanded upon in this one, which I was grateful for. I thought it was an interesting dynamic there and I would like to see a bit more of it in the future.
Konstantin was even better this time around. He was so cute with his fanboy attitude toward Nikola Tesla. I am excited to see where his character development will go next. I see that there is a novella that focuses on him so I will for sure be checking that out (in fact, I just signed up to do a blog tour of that one too).
Ardis is a freaking bamf. Like she has her condition (saying that for spoiler-y purposes) and still takes on a clockwork dragon. She is actually amazing and I love everything about her. I wanted even more of her being awesome, but every fight scene she was right in the middle of things. What a hero.
I thought the last 20% of the book was a little rushed for how slow the pacing was at the beginning. I thought the final fight scenes could have been a bit more expanded on than they were, but overall it was still good pacing.
Overall: 4/5 stars. This one had everything I wanted in a sequel, I just thought it was a tad rushed.
August 20, 2014
OMG I'm not sure if this is the ending of this series, but if it is it definitely was perfect! Ardis and Wendel are just absolutely amazing and are definitely a top OTP for me. This sequel is a perfect conclusion to Shadows of Asphodel and Karen Kincy is simply brilliant for it!
The sequel follows Ardis and Wendel after Wendel's "date with death." They get caught by police officers due to the Archmage trying to find them both. The Archmages enlist Wendel as an "employee" to help with Project Lazarus to fight against the Russian in war. In this sequel we are immediately introduced to new creatures -- vampires, which I love. The vampires are only seen at the beginning and towards the end, but their presence alone just makes me happy.
Majority of Storms of Lazarus takes place in Prussia where Wendel was born. The war has started and battle takes place. Ardis becomes a pilot for an automaton and befriends the one person she couldn't stand in Shadows of Asphodel. I love how strong and determined Ardis is to keep things going no matter what the situation looks like. That dream she had was insane. Was it really an omen?
I learn to love Wendel more because despite his overall "macho man" demeanor towards everyone, he has a soft spot for his younger brother which shows that he is not at all a bad necromancer. No matter how his family saw him he never gave up on his brother and continued to protect his family when danger was near. Okay one thing that bugs me out -- Wendel is bisexual! However, I love that the details are more so on his relationship with Ardis and not the other two men he had "affairs" with.
Finding out what lies ahead for Ardis and Wendel had me a bit concerned because of their lifestyle, but that ending just warmed my heart completely. I was definitely all smiles for them.
Can I just say: that strip poker -- had me on all toes laughing and those sex scenes were a bit outrageous but went extremely well for the book.
Karen Kincy did an amazing job with this conclusion and I can definitely see why it's dieselpunk instead of steampunk!
The sequel follows Ardis and Wendel after Wendel's "date with death." They get caught by police officers due to the Archmage trying to find them both. The Archmages enlist Wendel as an "employee" to help with Project Lazarus to fight against the Russian in war. In this sequel we are immediately introduced to new creatures -- vampires, which I love. The vampires are only seen at the beginning and towards the end, but their presence alone just makes me happy.
Majority of Storms of Lazarus takes place in Prussia where Wendel was born. The war has started and battle takes place. Ardis becomes a pilot for an automaton and befriends the one person she couldn't stand in Shadows of Asphodel. I love how strong and determined Ardis is to keep things going no matter what the situation looks like. That dream she had was insane. Was it really an omen?
I learn to love Wendel more because despite his overall "macho man" demeanor towards everyone, he has a soft spot for his younger brother which shows that he is not at all a bad necromancer. No matter how his family saw him he never gave up on his brother and continued to protect his family when danger was near. Okay one thing that bugs me out -- Wendel is bisexual! However, I love that the details are more so on his relationship with Ardis and not the other two men he had "affairs" with.
Finding out what lies ahead for Ardis and Wendel had me a bit concerned because of their lifestyle, but that ending just warmed my heart completely. I was definitely all smiles for them.
Can I just say: that strip poker -- had me on all toes laughing and those sex scenes were a bit outrageous but went extremely well for the book.
Karen Kincy did an amazing job with this conclusion and I can definitely see why it's dieselpunk instead of steampunk!
September 7, 2015
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian I Dig Good Books.
Ardis and Wendel are on the run, but they get caught up in the war between Russia and Prussia. Wendel returns to the home he was removed as a child. He doesn't want to be there, but he will, for Ardis. Ardis is carrying a secret, one that might mean she loses Wendel forever.
An excellent follow up to the firt book. I would recommend that you read that first, to get the full Ardis/Wendel experience.
Because it is a brilliant experience! Ardis and Wendel are amazing, together and apart. Their story moves at speed in places, and slowly in others. Its bloody and deadly in places, and full of passion and love in others.
It has more steampunk than book one, but that's not a bad thing. Clockwork wasps and dragons, containing something akin to a soul. Giant machines powered by a pilot that can crush a man flat. I loved it!
Wendel is (reluctantly) reunited with his family, and Ardis makes plans to visit hers. Their story is still not finished and there is a third book. But that book is Konstantin, the Archmage and Himmel, the airship captain. Book three is THEIR story, so whether Arids and Wendel remains to be seen. But I will read that too!
The only thing that stopped it from getting 5 stars is that Wendel didn't have a say. Not a one. Not a single peep! Now, I can't say whether book one was the same because 1- I either didn't notice the single POV, or 2- it was dual POV, but either way, I can't remember. BUT here, it was all Ardis. I would love to have heard from Wendel, of course I would, but especially when he remembers falling, when he succumbs to his trip to the opium den, and when Ardis reveals her secret.
So because of that...
4.5 stars
Keep 'em coming Ms Kincy, keep these coming!
**same worded review appears on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
Ardis and Wendel are on the run, but they get caught up in the war between Russia and Prussia. Wendel returns to the home he was removed as a child. He doesn't want to be there, but he will, for Ardis. Ardis is carrying a secret, one that might mean she loses Wendel forever.
An excellent follow up to the firt book. I would recommend that you read that first, to get the full Ardis/Wendel experience.
Because it is a brilliant experience! Ardis and Wendel are amazing, together and apart. Their story moves at speed in places, and slowly in others. Its bloody and deadly in places, and full of passion and love in others.
It has more steampunk than book one, but that's not a bad thing. Clockwork wasps and dragons, containing something akin to a soul. Giant machines powered by a pilot that can crush a man flat. I loved it!
Wendel is (reluctantly) reunited with his family, and Ardis makes plans to visit hers. Their story is still not finished and there is a third book. But that book is Konstantin, the Archmage and Himmel, the airship captain. Book three is THEIR story, so whether Arids and Wendel remains to be seen. But I will read that too!
The only thing that stopped it from getting 5 stars is that Wendel didn't have a say. Not a one. Not a single peep! Now, I can't say whether book one was the same because 1- I either didn't notice the single POV, or 2- it was dual POV, but either way, I can't remember. BUT here, it was all Ardis. I would love to have heard from Wendel, of course I would, but especially when he remembers falling, when he succumbs to his trip to the opium den, and when Ardis reveals her secret.
So because of that...
4.5 stars
Keep 'em coming Ms Kincy, keep these coming!
**same worded review appears on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
November 26, 2018
Overall, a solid read. The ending was a bit disjointed and rushed.
August 3, 2014
Liked the first book so much I contributed to the Kickstarter for the second!
Following only days after the events of Shadows of Asphodel, Storms of Lazarus follows our heroes Ardis and Wendel as their attempt to escape is foiled and they are yet again dragged into a war they want nothing to do with.
In many ways, I really prefer Storms of Lazarus over Shadows of Asphodel, but I don't want to spoil it for anyone. Let's just say I really liked the whole idea of the wasps (you'll see what I mean) and also the relationship between vampires and necromancers. Much like the first book, Storms of Lazarus isn't a difficult read and I may have ignored dinner, my partner, the dishes and other such trappings of modern life to be absorbed in dieselpunk-land once more.
Things I still really want to know:
1. Do necromancers have any control over the dead other necromancers re-raise?
2. Are there limits/different strengths to necromancy? (i.e. are there necromancers that can raise only a handful of people, while others can raise legions to fight one more time?)
3. What's up with Ardis's sword? That thing seems to have a very nasty secret and I'm dying to know what it is.
Following only days after the events of Shadows of Asphodel, Storms of Lazarus follows our heroes Ardis and Wendel as their attempt to escape is foiled and they are yet again dragged into a war they want nothing to do with.
In many ways, I really prefer Storms of Lazarus over Shadows of Asphodel, but I don't want to spoil it for anyone. Let's just say I really liked the whole idea of the wasps (you'll see what I mean) and also the relationship between vampires and necromancers. Much like the first book, Storms of Lazarus isn't a difficult read and I may have ignored dinner, my partner, the dishes and other such trappings of modern life to be absorbed in dieselpunk-land once more.
Things I still really want to know:
1. Do necromancers have any control over the dead other necromancers re-raise?
2. Are there limits/different strengths to necromancy? (i.e. are there necromancers that can raise only a handful of people, while others can raise legions to fight one more time?)
3. What's up with Ardis's sword? That thing seems to have a very nasty secret and I'm dying to know what it is.
November 25, 2016
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
It was so nice reading about Ardis and Wendel again. Ardis really is a brilliant character (as is Wendel, but in my opinion, this story was about her more than it was him!) and it was a journey that involved more automatons, magic and technology (the appearance of Nikola Tesla was fun).
Things pick up pretty much where they left off, so it was back into this familiar world from the start. One thing I enjoyed a lot was meeting Wendel's family properly, and the whole war/clockwork dragon thing was pretty cool too. The writing, as always, was great. Once I got reading it flowed very quickly and moved along smoothly.
Overall this was a good novel, well written, nothing jarring about it. I do prefer the first novel to this one, but it is a solid sequel and I'm sure if the series continues it will just get better!
It was so nice reading about Ardis and Wendel again. Ardis really is a brilliant character (as is Wendel, but in my opinion, this story was about her more than it was him!) and it was a journey that involved more automatons, magic and technology (the appearance of Nikola Tesla was fun).
Things pick up pretty much where they left off, so it was back into this familiar world from the start. One thing I enjoyed a lot was meeting Wendel's family properly, and the whole war/clockwork dragon thing was pretty cool too. The writing, as always, was great. Once I got reading it flowed very quickly and moved along smoothly.
Overall this was a good novel, well written, nothing jarring about it. I do prefer the first novel to this one, but it is a solid sequel and I'm sure if the series continues it will just get better!
April 26, 2015
I couldn't wait to get this book! Before the first in this series (shadows of asphodel) I had never read any books in the steampunk genre. Karen's series has introduced me to a new world that I adore. I fell in love with Ardis, Wendel, and Konstantin right away.
This book continues the story and adventures of these 3 unlikely comrades as the world steps into it's first war. Adding to the tale we get technomancy, vampires, magic, love, and a bratty pet Raven. I don't dare forget the best part but spilling that would be spoilers!
I cannot wait for the novella's and the last book of the series. I hope I get the chance to fund another kickstarter for a fantastic young author, one I now call friend despite the way she tortures me ;)
This book continues the story and adventures of these 3 unlikely comrades as the world steps into it's first war. Adding to the tale we get technomancy, vampires, magic, love, and a bratty pet Raven. I don't dare forget the best part but spilling that would be spoilers!
I cannot wait for the novella's and the last book of the series. I hope I get the chance to fund another kickstarter for a fantastic young author, one I now call friend despite the way she tortures me ;)
series-abandoned
August 25, 20142014-08-18 (before reading)
What's this!?
Above, UK price. Below, US price (both converted in €).
But, when I log in:
What's this!?
Above, UK price. Below, US price (both converted in €).
But, when I log in:
August 29, 2014
Another solid dieselpunk story with sexy bits and violent deaths rolled into a tidy ball of paranormal romance. This volume had the usual suspects (necromancer, mercenary, archmage and automatons) along with some new characters including sentient clockwork creatures, vampires, a smart new pet raven and one of the greatest scientists ever...Nikola Tesla!! The end wraps things up neatly and sets an attractive foundation for the next book in the series.
August 1, 2014
I am so happy that I got the chance to support the Kickstarter project for this and the previous book, Shadows of Asphodel. This book gave me the closure I was craving regarding our sexy Necromancer and kickass Mercenary. I was craving this Happily Ever After and I got it. Bonus point: it mentions a couple of vampires!
August 5, 2014
Loved it! This was an excellent follow up to the first book, and immersively entertaining. This series definitely deserves more attention!
October 16, 2014
Ardis is a badass heroine, paired with Wendel--her perfect match. A great steampunk--heavy on the sream.
June 13, 2018
Just as good as the first, but with More Stuff
(including cuteness galore, death galore, spies+trouble galore, angst galore)
(including cuteness galore, death galore, spies+trouble galore, angst galore)
October 11, 2014
Vampires. Angry Hungarians. Zeppelins. Assassins. Clockwork. Strip poker. A raven. The automans. The castle. War.
“You have a lovely singing voice,” Ardis said, “but –“
“Why, thank you.”
“But be quiet. We’re escaping.”
“Escaping,” Wendel grinned like he couldn’t help himself. “Exactly.”
Karen Kincy did not disappoint in her followup to Shadows of Asphodel! Of course, it didn’t go anything how I planned it to, but Karen Kincy is a master of story weaving; it is much more than just storytelling. One difference between the first book and Storms of Lazarus is I noticed a distinctive difference in the pacing. Shadows of Asphodel was constant action and fast-paced. Storms of Lazarus allows readers to recognize the familiarity of the characters and their storyline continuation from the first book, unlike many books in series.
“Where are we going?”
“Not to our deaths, apparently,” Wendel said.
Konstantin shook his head. “Logic escapes you, doesn’t it?”
“I don’t trust you,” Wendel said, with more than a little insolence. “Do I need to explain the concept of revenge to you, archmage?”
Due to this magical trick of writing, Kincy built in moments of pause for readers. As I read I could clearly find the rises and the dips in the action of the plot, and the brief lulls in between gave insightful moments into the main characters’ interactions and character growth.
Ardis and Wendel are at it again, only this time the archmage who put his neck on the line comes calling after a very questionable run-in with some angry Hungarians. Wendel finds himself the center of attention from a raven, who Wendel takes as a pet. Konstantin played a smaller role in this book than in the first, but he brought the famous Nikola Tesla into the mix of his work, who helped the Vienna archmages in their work. A certain Captain Himmel is also among the ranks of Wendel and Ardis, captaining the zeppelin to take the two back to the very place they’re running from. And Ardis discovers something she is afraid to share with Wendel, a secret that she is keeping.
Himmel shook his head. His eyes looked hollow. “I’m not a captain,” he said. “Not without my ship. Not without my crew.”
That blonde bitch from the first book who screwed Ardis over also reappears. Natalya leads the command of the automan pilots.
“Why are all the pilots women, anyway?” Ardis said.
Natalya grinned. “We’re some of the toughest bitches around.”
Wendel, Ardis and the gang are also invited to Wendel’s castle. Ardis meets his entire family, and there are WORDS. It’s not too pretty. These scenes are tense and sarcastic, but hurtful all the same. I also found this is where Natalya experiences character growth, or perhaps my view of her was biased since it was told through Ardis. Natalya turned out to be an OK lady.
“I want asylum,” Wendel said.
“Asylum?”
“I’m tired of everyone trying to kill me.”
“You belong in an asylum,” Konstantin muttered.
Wendel laughed, then frowned as if he hadn’t meant to humor the archmage.
But war doesn’t care about family reunions, new relationships and friendships, reconciliation, destruction, death. At this point in the book, I was going a little crazy. Women, you know what I mean: imagining all manner of scenarios – the most horrible.
“Gentlemen!” the archmage said. “This is a hospital.”
“He’s no gentleman,” Himmel said.
“True,” Wendel said. “Technically, I’m royalty.”
“You won’t be anything when I’m done with you.”
Wendel laughed,and Himmel glared ferociously at him. The necromancer seemed glad that the captain was no longer melancholy.
“My God,” Ardis said. “Everybody calm the hell down.”
That’s it. That’s all I can tell you. You’ll just have to read the book. :-D
Well…I will tell you this: the third book will be an entirely new adventure. That’s all.
“I don’t want my only solution to be death.”
“You have a lovely singing voice,” Ardis said, “but –“
“Why, thank you.”
“But be quiet. We’re escaping.”
“Escaping,” Wendel grinned like he couldn’t help himself. “Exactly.”
Karen Kincy did not disappoint in her followup to Shadows of Asphodel! Of course, it didn’t go anything how I planned it to, but Karen Kincy is a master of story weaving; it is much more than just storytelling. One difference between the first book and Storms of Lazarus is I noticed a distinctive difference in the pacing. Shadows of Asphodel was constant action and fast-paced. Storms of Lazarus allows readers to recognize the familiarity of the characters and their storyline continuation from the first book, unlike many books in series.
“Where are we going?”
“Not to our deaths, apparently,” Wendel said.
Konstantin shook his head. “Logic escapes you, doesn’t it?”
“I don’t trust you,” Wendel said, with more than a little insolence. “Do I need to explain the concept of revenge to you, archmage?”
Due to this magical trick of writing, Kincy built in moments of pause for readers. As I read I could clearly find the rises and the dips in the action of the plot, and the brief lulls in between gave insightful moments into the main characters’ interactions and character growth.
Ardis and Wendel are at it again, only this time the archmage who put his neck on the line comes calling after a very questionable run-in with some angry Hungarians. Wendel finds himself the center of attention from a raven, who Wendel takes as a pet. Konstantin played a smaller role in this book than in the first, but he brought the famous Nikola Tesla into the mix of his work, who helped the Vienna archmages in their work. A certain Captain Himmel is also among the ranks of Wendel and Ardis, captaining the zeppelin to take the two back to the very place they’re running from. And Ardis discovers something she is afraid to share with Wendel, a secret that she is keeping.
Himmel shook his head. His eyes looked hollow. “I’m not a captain,” he said. “Not without my ship. Not without my crew.”
That blonde bitch from the first book who screwed Ardis over also reappears. Natalya leads the command of the automan pilots.
“Why are all the pilots women, anyway?” Ardis said.
Natalya grinned. “We’re some of the toughest bitches around.”
Wendel, Ardis and the gang are also invited to Wendel’s castle. Ardis meets his entire family, and there are WORDS. It’s not too pretty. These scenes are tense and sarcastic, but hurtful all the same. I also found this is where Natalya experiences character growth, or perhaps my view of her was biased since it was told through Ardis. Natalya turned out to be an OK lady.
“I want asylum,” Wendel said.
“Asylum?”
“I’m tired of everyone trying to kill me.”
“You belong in an asylum,” Konstantin muttered.
Wendel laughed, then frowned as if he hadn’t meant to humor the archmage.
But war doesn’t care about family reunions, new relationships and friendships, reconciliation, destruction, death. At this point in the book, I was going a little crazy. Women, you know what I mean: imagining all manner of scenarios – the most horrible.
“Gentlemen!” the archmage said. “This is a hospital.”
“He’s no gentleman,” Himmel said.
“True,” Wendel said. “Technically, I’m royalty.”
“You won’t be anything when I’m done with you.”
Wendel laughed,and Himmel glared ferociously at him. The necromancer seemed glad that the captain was no longer melancholy.
“My God,” Ardis said. “Everybody calm the hell down.”
That’s it. That’s all I can tell you. You’ll just have to read the book. :-D
Well…I will tell you this: the third book will be an entirely new adventure. That’s all.
“I don’t want my only solution to be death.”
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