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The Elders and Welders Chronicles #2
A Dark Heart
A Dark Heart Book Two in The Elders and Welders Chronicles London, 1897: Lady Christiana Harker once committed a grave sin against her kind when she saved Inspector Elijah Drexler's life by turning him into a vampire. Christiana's bold act has only driven Elijah deeper into an impenetrable darkness, fueled by morphine, nightmares, and a constant thirst for blood. Elijah has no room left in his heart for anything but his quest for vengeance against his childhood tormentor, a quest that he fully expects to end with his own death. But when the mysterious Duke of Brightlingsea requests Elijah's help in locating a doomsday device that could level half of London, Elijah's personal vendetta becomes entangled with a secret war being waged among the immortal Elders. Just when Christiana finally accepts that her long-held love for the Inspector will forever be unrequited, however, a catastrophe brings them together, forcing Elijah to finally confront his feelings for Christiana. But will Christiana's love be strong enough to weather the terrible truths buried deep in Elijah's past? And will Elijah find the strength of will to finally cast off his demons and let love into his dark heart? This Victorian steampunk romance is recommended for adult audiences.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2013
66 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Foxe
3 books238 followersI write Steampunk Romance. I am self published and loving it! I also publish Historical Romance under Maggie Fenton. Thief of Hearts is finally finished and available for purchase!!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 27, 2013
Loved, loved, loved A Dark Heart, the second installment in the Elders and Welders Chronicles. Elijah Drexler's agony, with his tormented past, his love/hate for Lady Christiana, his unrelenting revenge...wow. Ana is just brilliant when she's finally had enough and takes charge of her life. And the villain...horrible and vile and truly awful.
It was great to have characters from Prince of Hearts also be integral to this story, and the epilogue (the dastardly epilogue!!) sets up the third book which I already want. Now.
This is a wonderfully written series, with characters you come to love (and drool over), and a plot that just sizzles with romance, adventure, steampunk inventions, and a whole lot of mystery and intrigue.
It was great to have characters from Prince of Hearts also be integral to this story, and the epilogue (the dastardly epilogue!!) sets up the third book which I already want. Now.
This is a wonderfully written series, with characters you come to love (and drool over), and a plot that just sizzles with romance, adventure, steampunk inventions, and a whole lot of mystery and intrigue.
January 20, 2016
This was quite different from the first book.
Elijah is dark and brooding, but not in a sexy way, more like a "he's genuinely damaged" kind of a way. And while I felt for his plight, he never made me smile or swoon, and Christiana was a bit of a blank for me. So this wasn't exactly a couple I was shipping for.
But I must give props for the author having the moxy to tackle some tough realities not typically found in a fantasy romance.
Elijah is dark and brooding, but not in a sexy way, more like a "he's genuinely damaged" kind of a way. And while I felt for his plight, he never made me smile or swoon, and Christiana was a bit of a blank for me. So this wasn't exactly a couple I was shipping for.
But I must give props for the author having the moxy to tackle some tough realities not typically found in a fantasy romance.
December 10, 2013
I first learned of The Elders and Welders Chronicles books when I snagged a copy of book 1,
Prince
of Hearts
, as a freebie from the Kindle Store. Those who give Kindle freebies a try know that its really difficult to find a good book there. But, since I love steampunk romance I had decided to give Prince of Hearts a chance and I absolutely loved it! It was simply a lot of fun, so I was really excited to hear that there was going to be a sequel and even more excited to get a review copy from the author. A Dark Heart was just as fun and the romance was just as lovely.
Lady Christiana Harker has been in love with Inspector Elijah Drexler for ages. And I do mean ages, since she met him as a young boy. This is not as weird as it sounds, since Christiana is immortal thanks to her guardian, Rowan, an Elder who has the ability to share his immortality. Of course, Elijah being a commoner and a bastard feels he is nowhere near appropriate for Christiana. He's also keeping a lot more of his past to himself than Christiana knows, and of which he has no intention of ever sharing with her. In his opinion, a lady such as she should not have to deal with the horrible things that happen in life, and some horrible things happened to Elijah. Christiana is more stubborn than Elijah gives her credit for, and when Elijah is almost killed by the Ripper, Christiana risks it all and inadvertently makes Elijah a vampire. But does Elijah want to be saved?
A Dark Heart picks up 9 years after Elijah's been made a vampire. At this point his reliant on opium to get him through the day and has no intention of ever taking Christiana's blood to save himself, even if that's what he craves most. He simply wants to get through the day, get his revenge on the man that abused him and die. Christiana is ready to give up on Elijah and move on with her life when she learns of Elijah's addiction and impending death from refusing her blood. She plans to try one last time to save the man that does not want to be saved.
A Dark Heart was a great, fast-paced, romantic read and I completely loved it. I love all things steampunk so I was immediately on board with the world building in this Victorian London. I also really liked the vampire myth used here and the secret society surrounding those that can create them. I also liked the closer look that we got with the Elders in A Dark Heart and I'm hoping that each of the "good guys" get their own story.
While the story and intrigue plot was great fun, what really stole the show was the romance between Christiana and Elijah. Christiana's dealing with her immortality and the fact that there's a lot in life that she will never get to experience, things like becoming a mother. She's also completely broken by Elijah's rejection of her. She doesn't understand why he doesn't care for her and believes that she just isn't desirable to him. Who doesn't like these unrequited stories where the girl finally gets the guy? 'Cause get the guy she does!
*For full review and similar reads, see The Book Adventures.
Lady Christiana Harker has been in love with Inspector Elijah Drexler for ages. And I do mean ages, since she met him as a young boy. This is not as weird as it sounds, since Christiana is immortal thanks to her guardian, Rowan, an Elder who has the ability to share his immortality. Of course, Elijah being a commoner and a bastard feels he is nowhere near appropriate for Christiana. He's also keeping a lot more of his past to himself than Christiana knows, and of which he has no intention of ever sharing with her. In his opinion, a lady such as she should not have to deal with the horrible things that happen in life, and some horrible things happened to Elijah. Christiana is more stubborn than Elijah gives her credit for, and when Elijah is almost killed by the Ripper, Christiana risks it all and inadvertently makes Elijah a vampire. But does Elijah want to be saved?
A Dark Heart picks up 9 years after Elijah's been made a vampire. At this point his reliant on opium to get him through the day and has no intention of ever taking Christiana's blood to save himself, even if that's what he craves most. He simply wants to get through the day, get his revenge on the man that abused him and die. Christiana is ready to give up on Elijah and move on with her life when she learns of Elijah's addiction and impending death from refusing her blood. She plans to try one last time to save the man that does not want to be saved.
If she'd know the truth, she wouldn't have saved him. He knew that with a bone-deep conviction. She certainly wouldn't look at him as she did now, with such a yearning (p. 63).
A Dark Heart was a great, fast-paced, romantic read and I completely loved it. I love all things steampunk so I was immediately on board with the world building in this Victorian London. I also really liked the vampire myth used here and the secret society surrounding those that can create them. I also liked the closer look that we got with the Elders in A Dark Heart and I'm hoping that each of the "good guys" get their own story.
While the story and intrigue plot was great fun, what really stole the show was the romance between Christiana and Elijah. Christiana's dealing with her immortality and the fact that there's a lot in life that she will never get to experience, things like becoming a mother. She's also completely broken by Elijah's rejection of her. She doesn't understand why he doesn't care for her and believes that she just isn't desirable to him. Who doesn't like these unrequited stories where the girl finally gets the guy? 'Cause get the guy she does!
*For full review and similar reads, see The Book Adventures.
Want to read
December 20, 2018London Street
December 19, 2013
I received a copy of Prince of Hearts from the author in exchange for my honest review.
This is a sequel of Prince of Hearts, and an elaboration of the relationship between Elijah and Christiana that was alluded in the prequel. We first got to know Elijah as a self-destructive hero and Christiana as a naïve damsel. Emotional drama hits early on in the book where their relationship started off brimming with intense anger and hate toward each other that sometimes it’s painful to read. Thankfully, future interactions changes their characters and soon they are able to work out their differences.
There are certainly some parallels between Elijah and Christiana with Sasha and Aline. I got the feeling that Elijah is a darker version of Sasha while Christina is a more feminine version of Aline. Their relationship even progress in the same fashion. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, what I like the most about Foxe’s heroines are their refusal to sit around like a kicked puppy when their men stubbornly clung unhealthily to their past sins. Moreover, although these parallels are quite apparent, the two couples still have certain characteristics that are their own that you won’t get confused. Additionally, although both men are struggling to move on from dark troubled pasts, they have different self-destruct mechanism – Elijah’s debilitating self-loathing to Sasha’s extreme inability to forgive himself.
The plot is heavier on the romantic side, but it took an unpredictable twist in the end (a much deserved improvement from the previous book where I can guess the villain very early in the story). The book ended with a cliffhanger and more than insinuate that Foxe has more stories to tell from this world.
All in all, if you like the first book, then you’ll probably like this one, too. But my wish is that the future books of this series will have more variety to its characters and continuous world development to stir things up and keep it fresh.
This is a sequel of Prince of Hearts, and an elaboration of the relationship between Elijah and Christiana that was alluded in the prequel. We first got to know Elijah as a self-destructive hero and Christiana as a naïve damsel. Emotional drama hits early on in the book where their relationship started off brimming with intense anger and hate toward each other that sometimes it’s painful to read. Thankfully, future interactions changes their characters and soon they are able to work out their differences.
There are certainly some parallels between Elijah and Christiana with Sasha and Aline. I got the feeling that Elijah is a darker version of Sasha while Christina is a more feminine version of Aline. Their relationship even progress in the same fashion. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, what I like the most about Foxe’s heroines are their refusal to sit around like a kicked puppy when their men stubbornly clung unhealthily to their past sins. Moreover, although these parallels are quite apparent, the two couples still have certain characteristics that are their own that you won’t get confused. Additionally, although both men are struggling to move on from dark troubled pasts, they have different self-destruct mechanism – Elijah’s debilitating self-loathing to Sasha’s extreme inability to forgive himself.
The plot is heavier on the romantic side, but it took an unpredictable twist in the end (a much deserved improvement from the previous book where I can guess the villain very early in the story). The book ended with a cliffhanger and more than insinuate that Foxe has more stories to tell from this world.
All in all, if you like the first book, then you’ll probably like this one, too. But my wish is that the future books of this series will have more variety to its characters and continuous world development to stir things up and keep it fresh.
July 29, 2015
I was provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review - and holy moo, did it ever change my mind about paranormal science fiction
Disclaimer: I don't like Werewolves, Ghosts or Vampires in my Science Fiction. The very thought of Vampires in Space makes me cringe. I'm not even that much of a Vampires in paranormal romance fan, because let's be honest - sparkly Vampires crying about their lost humanity and the wet-blanket girl their dead heart has fallen for has flooded the market with shyte. Vampire Romance has become a laughable shade of what it once was when Vampires were monsters, which sucks (ha-ha), because I used to love the genre. Luckily, there have been some recent books that are slowly turning the Genre around.
I consider Steampunk to be a branch of Science Fiction. When my first venture into Steampunk, Prince of Hearts (also by Margaret Foxe) included a side character who was a twist on the vampire legend, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I was conflicted. My conflict arose because my science fiction mind was going "NO- NO- NO, No blood sucking paranormal vamps in science fiction!" But, Foxe had already endeared the character to me before it was revealed and her writing had sold me on a 5 star book. I liked what she did with the incorporation and blurring the lines between Steampunk, Science Fiction and Paranormal. It was a genre bender - so in the end, I told my Scifi mind to shut the heck up and enjoy the ride.
Then, Foxe sent me a copy of A Dark Heart - a book that focuses on a steampunk vampire. Because of Foxe's writing style and talent, accepting the review request was a no-brainer. I think she could write a book about two werewolves hanging out on a space station with a 'Mars needs more women' trope storyline and I'd read it. (Please, don't do that to me, Mrs. Foxe. I was mostly joking) I was, however, prepared to not like A Dark Heart. I went into it with lowered expectations simply because of the vampiric slant.
Well, I should have known better. By the end of the prologue, I was sucker-punched into the story and hooked. I found myself reading page after page after page, and ended up reading the book in one day of very solid reading. Now, I'm sad because I have no more to read. Me!? Sad about not having a vamperic steampunk book to read? What has this world come to! My brain is all confused because Foxe has made me like vampires in my science fiction! I'm almost afraid to ask what she's going to do next...
I think what does it is a combination of the impeccable world building and the effortless writing style. This is only Foxe's second book. It makes me, as a writer, jealous. Envious, even. It also makes me want to tell people to go read it. When I find an indi-author who impresses me like this, I tend to gush. That's right, folks - Foxe is SELF PUBLISHED.
Are her books perfect? No. Even as a fan of Foxe, I want to be objective. I nagged on Prince of Hearts for its use of famous people and putting steam-something in front of random objects to make them seem more steampunk. Some people may have a problem with the erotic flavor lightly laced through the book (which is much less apparent in A Dark Heart than it was in Prince of Hearts) that I think makes the book sizzle. Some people may argue that some of her steampunk tech is too paranormal, and I agree that my science fiction mind was questioning things at times in a quiet whisper. There are a few times where the introspective dragged a little bit, but many readers will probably love this (I'm an admitted dialogue reader/introspective skimmer - Yes, we have a support group, and yes we have badges).
Foxe, however, offers me things I cannot ignore that require I give this book five stars. First the style. The style is richly developed and flawlessly seams together great dialogue, detailed (but not heavily so) observations, interesting asides and excellent pacing. Next is plot - yes, it's a romance, but it's a romance wrapped around a well-developed plot of intrigue, mystery, politics, murder and even a touch of the occult. I think that any reader could enjoy this book, from those who desire romance to those who could care less about that side of the story.
The characters are such a strong part of Foxe's five-star writing. She writes three dimensional characters that jump off the page, including the side characters. I don't think there was a single flat or bland character to be found. Even the 'villains' are atypical and have reasons behind the madness. Foxe has a knack for twisting things, too. Just when you think you have a character figured out, you're proven wrong.
The main protag in A Dark Heart is Elijah - Inspector for the Scotland Yard who was nearly killed and then 'saved' - though the side effect was the development of a thirst for blood. Elijah is good man trapped within a monster's body. He kills people to survive, but this was a circumstance he was thrust into unwillingly. He both welcomes death and yet wants to live. He tries to fight his cravings with morphine but has no doubt that he could, and most likely will, snap at any moment and would be quite capable of killing men, women and children indiscriminately.
Christiana is also a dynamic, complex character. Foxe has a knack for writing female characters that are strong without losing their femininity or their vulnerabilities. Christiana was bonded by one of the immortal Elders (no, these aren't vampires) at just seventeen. This locked her in time, and thirty years later, she is just now starting to grow up and grow a backbone after being sheltered from the world. It's an interesting point for the reader to be brought into Christiana's character. It was a bit of 'coming of age' meets 'I'm done being a wet blanket', and it resulted in creating a character I very much enjoyed reading.
The relationship between Christiana and Elijah is just as complex as the two individual characters. She is the one who saved him, unaware of what her actions would turn Elijah into. Their past goes back further than their current relationship, mixed with lies, denial, love and heartbreak. He refuses to forgive her but needs her to survive. She refuses to continue letting guilt eat her alive or let his anger rule her heart. It's quite tragic.
Both the plot (a stolen blueprint for a device that could destroy London) and the character relationships drive the story forward. There were a few times where there were so many new characters introduced, however, with their on little side stories and back stories that it did muddle and slow down the plot and pacing a bit. Some of these introductions were set ups for future books, and some of the new characters were necessary for the blueprint plot. It could also be that I found it confusing because I refused to put the book down and give my brain a break.
Final thoughts: Great story, tragic romance, excellent characters, excellent world building, excellent story-telling and writing style. A highly recommended read.
Disclaimer: I don't like Werewolves, Ghosts or Vampires in my Science Fiction. The very thought of Vampires in Space makes me cringe. I'm not even that much of a Vampires in paranormal romance fan, because let's be honest - sparkly Vampires crying about their lost humanity and the wet-blanket girl their dead heart has fallen for has flooded the market with shyte. Vampire Romance has become a laughable shade of what it once was when Vampires were monsters, which sucks (ha-ha), because I used to love the genre. Luckily, there have been some recent books that are slowly turning the Genre around.
I consider Steampunk to be a branch of Science Fiction. When my first venture into Steampunk, Prince of Hearts (also by Margaret Foxe) included a side character who was a twist on the vampire legend, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I was conflicted. My conflict arose because my science fiction mind was going "NO- NO- NO, No blood sucking paranormal vamps in science fiction!" But, Foxe had already endeared the character to me before it was revealed and her writing had sold me on a 5 star book. I liked what she did with the incorporation and blurring the lines between Steampunk, Science Fiction and Paranormal. It was a genre bender - so in the end, I told my Scifi mind to shut the heck up and enjoy the ride.
Then, Foxe sent me a copy of A Dark Heart - a book that focuses on a steampunk vampire. Because of Foxe's writing style and talent, accepting the review request was a no-brainer. I think she could write a book about two werewolves hanging out on a space station with a 'Mars needs more women' trope storyline and I'd read it. (Please, don't do that to me, Mrs. Foxe. I was mostly joking) I was, however, prepared to not like A Dark Heart. I went into it with lowered expectations simply because of the vampiric slant.
Well, I should have known better. By the end of the prologue, I was sucker-punched into the story and hooked. I found myself reading page after page after page, and ended up reading the book in one day of very solid reading. Now, I'm sad because I have no more to read. Me!? Sad about not having a vamperic steampunk book to read? What has this world come to! My brain is all confused because Foxe has made me like vampires in my science fiction! I'm almost afraid to ask what she's going to do next...
I think what does it is a combination of the impeccable world building and the effortless writing style. This is only Foxe's second book. It makes me, as a writer, jealous. Envious, even. It also makes me want to tell people to go read it. When I find an indi-author who impresses me like this, I tend to gush. That's right, folks - Foxe is SELF PUBLISHED.
Are her books perfect? No. Even as a fan of Foxe, I want to be objective. I nagged on Prince of Hearts for its use of famous people and putting steam-something in front of random objects to make them seem more steampunk. Some people may have a problem with the erotic flavor lightly laced through the book (which is much less apparent in A Dark Heart than it was in Prince of Hearts) that I think makes the book sizzle. Some people may argue that some of her steampunk tech is too paranormal, and I agree that my science fiction mind was questioning things at times in a quiet whisper. There are a few times where the introspective dragged a little bit, but many readers will probably love this (I'm an admitted dialogue reader/introspective skimmer - Yes, we have a support group, and yes we have badges).
Foxe, however, offers me things I cannot ignore that require I give this book five stars. First the style. The style is richly developed and flawlessly seams together great dialogue, detailed (but not heavily so) observations, interesting asides and excellent pacing. Next is plot - yes, it's a romance, but it's a romance wrapped around a well-developed plot of intrigue, mystery, politics, murder and even a touch of the occult. I think that any reader could enjoy this book, from those who desire romance to those who could care less about that side of the story.
The characters are such a strong part of Foxe's five-star writing. She writes three dimensional characters that jump off the page, including the side characters. I don't think there was a single flat or bland character to be found. Even the 'villains' are atypical and have reasons behind the madness. Foxe has a knack for twisting things, too. Just when you think you have a character figured out, you're proven wrong.
The main protag in A Dark Heart is Elijah - Inspector for the Scotland Yard who was nearly killed and then 'saved' - though the side effect was the development of a thirst for blood. Elijah is good man trapped within a monster's body. He kills people to survive, but this was a circumstance he was thrust into unwillingly. He both welcomes death and yet wants to live. He tries to fight his cravings with morphine but has no doubt that he could, and most likely will, snap at any moment and would be quite capable of killing men, women and children indiscriminately.
Christiana is also a dynamic, complex character. Foxe has a knack for writing female characters that are strong without losing their femininity or their vulnerabilities. Christiana was bonded by one of the immortal Elders (no, these aren't vampires) at just seventeen. This locked her in time, and thirty years later, she is just now starting to grow up and grow a backbone after being sheltered from the world. It's an interesting point for the reader to be brought into Christiana's character. It was a bit of 'coming of age' meets 'I'm done being a wet blanket', and it resulted in creating a character I very much enjoyed reading.
The relationship between Christiana and Elijah is just as complex as the two individual characters. She is the one who saved him, unaware of what her actions would turn Elijah into. Their past goes back further than their current relationship, mixed with lies, denial, love and heartbreak. He refuses to forgive her but needs her to survive. She refuses to continue letting guilt eat her alive or let his anger rule her heart. It's quite tragic.
Both the plot (a stolen blueprint for a device that could destroy London) and the character relationships drive the story forward. There were a few times where there were so many new characters introduced, however, with their on little side stories and back stories that it did muddle and slow down the plot and pacing a bit. Some of these introductions were set ups for future books, and some of the new characters were necessary for the blueprint plot. It could also be that I found it confusing because I refused to put the book down and give my brain a break.
Final thoughts: Great story, tragic romance, excellent characters, excellent world building, excellent story-telling and writing style. A highly recommended read.
January 6, 2014
A Dark Heart has everything that I look for in an awesome Victorian Steampunk novel - romance, originality, world building that is so awesome I wish it was real and I could live there, action, a little bit of smexy, basically this book has it all. The series is also quickly becoming one of my favorites. Margaret Foxe is a tremendously good writer and she is weaving books that are so original and out of the box, with characters that I am unendingly fascinated with.
After Prince of Hearts, book 1, which I loved by the way, I was very excited to read A Dark Heart.
It. Was. Awesome.
Told from the dual point of view of Elijah and Lady Christina or Ana for short, it added depth to the story being able to see it from both of their points of view. I was very curious about Lady Christina and the Inspector Elijah after they were brought in to the previous book. They have such a tumultuous relationship with some serious background. The chemistry between them rocks and I'm slightly surprised that my Kindle didn't ignite. Even when they are fighting, or maybe especially when they are fighting, it rocks.
When the Duke of Brighlingsea, who I am slightly fan-girling over, has blue prints stolen from his home, he asks Elijah to find them to stop whoever stole them from doing something disastrous. As he sets off to find the papers, he's also on a disastrous path of his own, seeking vengeance against the men that destroyed his childhood, Elijah has become self destructive and he's avoiding the one person that has the potential to save him - Ana. I don't want to give spoilers to the overall plot of the story but I will say it gets crazy good.
Ana was the biggest surprise for me, in Prince of Hearts, she was very docile, a real lady with not a lot of panache. But her friendship with Aline and her growing frustration with Elijah and Rowan, she starts to become strong, funny and outspoken. Gone is the boring lady and in her place stands a character that I really liked, I couldn't help but root for her and understand her frustrations.
Which brings me to Elijah, he is such a big freaking mess, it's kind of insane how messed up he is. But even with all of his mess, I really adore this scary man. A hardened individual, he lives with an addiction and a vendetta. He also lives with the fact that he hates the woman that he loves. I love him.
All in all, another fantastic addition to a really fantastic series. I would encourage you to read Prince of Hearts before reading A Dark Heart as there is soooo much established world building, and important secrets that are revealed in the first book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
After Prince of Hearts, book 1, which I loved by the way, I was very excited to read A Dark Heart.
It. Was. Awesome.
Told from the dual point of view of Elijah and Lady Christina or Ana for short, it added depth to the story being able to see it from both of their points of view. I was very curious about Lady Christina and the Inspector Elijah after they were brought in to the previous book. They have such a tumultuous relationship with some serious background. The chemistry between them rocks and I'm slightly surprised that my Kindle didn't ignite. Even when they are fighting, or maybe especially when they are fighting, it rocks.
When the Duke of Brighlingsea, who I am slightly fan-girling over, has blue prints stolen from his home, he asks Elijah to find them to stop whoever stole them from doing something disastrous. As he sets off to find the papers, he's also on a disastrous path of his own, seeking vengeance against the men that destroyed his childhood, Elijah has become self destructive and he's avoiding the one person that has the potential to save him - Ana. I don't want to give spoilers to the overall plot of the story but I will say it gets crazy good.
Ana was the biggest surprise for me, in Prince of Hearts, she was very docile, a real lady with not a lot of panache. But her friendship with Aline and her growing frustration with Elijah and Rowan, she starts to become strong, funny and outspoken. Gone is the boring lady and in her place stands a character that I really liked, I couldn't help but root for her and understand her frustrations.
Which brings me to Elijah, he is such a big freaking mess, it's kind of insane how messed up he is. But even with all of his mess, I really adore this scary man. A hardened individual, he lives with an addiction and a vendetta. He also lives with the fact that he hates the woman that he loves. I love him.
All in all, another fantastic addition to a really fantastic series. I would encourage you to read Prince of Hearts before reading A Dark Heart as there is soooo much established world building, and important secrets that are revealed in the first book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
December 23, 2013
This book - number two of the Elders and Welders Chronicles - is quite an adventure! Lady Christina Harker and Inspector Elijah Drexler were introduced to readers in the first book of Margaret Foxe's Chronicles, but A Dark Heart is truly their story.
In 1888, Lady Christina stumbles across a wounded and dying Elijah Drexler - the man whom she has loved since their childhoods. Herself a Bonded companion to one of the world's thirteen Elders, she gave her blood to Elijah in order to save his life - and inadvertently transforming the man into a monster. What she didn't know is that, in saving his life, she made him a vampire.
For nearly a decade, Elijah has kept his distance from Christina. Until now, when circumstances have drawn the two together again - and this time, Christina refuses to let him go.
Margaret Foxe's London in the late 1800's is dark, gritty, and yet romantic - it's quite an accomplishment of writing. Her world, ruled by a society of elusive and dangerous Elders, is filled with welded abominations - half human, half metal and iron - vampires, Bonded companions, and ordinary people. This story, focused on the haunted and flawed Eljah Drexler, spends much of the time in dark, dangerous, and quite possibly what are the least desirable neighborhoods in and around London. That said, I wanted to crawl into the pages and stay there, watching the events unfold. It's a testament to the author to say that, as a reader, I felt part of the scenes and story. It's a talent not all authors have (but they should).
I really enjoyed this story - and I was thrilled to see Aline and Sasha (the main characters from book one) make a return! In A Dark Heart, I fell in love with Elijah just as Christina had, and I wanted to have the passionately, fiercely loyal Christina as a friend of my own. And yet, Margaret Foxe managed to break my heart by the end of the book. I can only wait and hope that she can restore one of my favorite characters in the next installment of the Chronicles. (And I hope I don't have to wait too long!)
In 1888, Lady Christina stumbles across a wounded and dying Elijah Drexler - the man whom she has loved since their childhoods. Herself a Bonded companion to one of the world's thirteen Elders, she gave her blood to Elijah in order to save his life - and inadvertently transforming the man into a monster. What she didn't know is that, in saving his life, she made him a vampire.
For nearly a decade, Elijah has kept his distance from Christina. Until now, when circumstances have drawn the two together again - and this time, Christina refuses to let him go.
Margaret Foxe's London in the late 1800's is dark, gritty, and yet romantic - it's quite an accomplishment of writing. Her world, ruled by a society of elusive and dangerous Elders, is filled with welded abominations - half human, half metal and iron - vampires, Bonded companions, and ordinary people. This story, focused on the haunted and flawed Eljah Drexler, spends much of the time in dark, dangerous, and quite possibly what are the least desirable neighborhoods in and around London. That said, I wanted to crawl into the pages and stay there, watching the events unfold. It's a testament to the author to say that, as a reader, I felt part of the scenes and story. It's a talent not all authors have (but they should).
I really enjoyed this story - and I was thrilled to see Aline and Sasha (the main characters from book one) make a return! In A Dark Heart, I fell in love with Elijah just as Christina had, and I wanted to have the passionately, fiercely loyal Christina as a friend of my own. And yet, Margaret Foxe managed to break my heart by the end of the book. I can only wait and hope that she can restore one of my favorite characters in the next installment of the Chronicles. (And I hope I don't have to wait too long!)
June 20, 2014
Dark Heart is the second of Ms. Foxe's Elders and Welders Chronicles. It follows Christiana, who we met in the first chronicle, Prince of Hearts, and Elijah (Inspector Drexler). It takes us deeper into the steampunk world that Miss Foxe has imagined so brilliantly, giving more background and more clues to the on-running plot of the whole series. So, that is the overview... now let me tell you that I couldn't put this book down. I became very invested in Elijah and Christiana's past and present and kept turning pages because I just had to know what was going to happen next. Ms. Foxe has a way of pulling you into the world and story, and her characters stay with you. Her characters are drawn in such a way that you truly care for them, and the relationships between both the H/h and the secondary characters are well fleshed out... huge bonus points for giving us a look at Aline and Romanov (from Prince of Hearts) and letting us know how they are faring, without making it feel like a departure from the main storyline. These could be considered stand alone, I guess... the main characters get their happy ending and there aren't glaring cliffhangers that make you want to hunt down the author and chain her to a chair until she finishes the next story. However, there is a larger plot that is equally interesting to watch unfold, and you wont fully get it unless you start with the first. And, yes, you are definitely left wanting more and waiting and watching for the next, both to follow this larger plot, and also because she did a wonderful job foreshadowing for the next in the series. It is fairly common for me to run across a "new" author and be very impressed with their first book in a series, only to find that the second book runs a bit flat- you wont have this problem with Ms. Foxe... and I am really looking forward to book three in this series!
I did receive a promotional copy of this book for free from Goodreads, but it was not required that I post a review in return, and the review is the same as I would have written had it not been given.
I did receive a promotional copy of this book for free from Goodreads, but it was not required that I post a review in return, and the review is the same as I would have written had it not been given.
January 29, 2014
I just finished A Dark Heart, the second book in the Elders and Welders Chronicles series. When I read the first book, Prince of Hearts, I was instantly in love. I quickly picked up the second book and yet again was not disappointed. Ms. Foxe does an excellent job of mixing a thrilling story, an exciting romance and a fun and interesting environment. I loved the character Elijah, his horrific history that won't let him go, along with Ana, who at first seemed a little timid, but soon shows everyone what she was made of. I had difficulties putting this book down.
I was very happy to see some of the characters from previous book be a part of this book, because I was a very big fan of them. To see what has happened to them since the last book, was a plus for me.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series and hope that we can find out what the future holds for Elijah and Ana!
I was very happy to see some of the characters from previous book be a part of this book, because I was a very big fan of them. To see what has happened to them since the last book, was a plus for me.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series and hope that we can find out what the future holds for Elijah and Ana!
June 24, 2015
This novel had a bit of a darker tone compared to its predecessor, but I loved it just the same. The story was good and kept me going and the writing was as brilliant as before. My only dislike was that I didn't connect with the characters as much as I would have liked.
Don't get me wrong, the characters in this book were still amazing; one in particular was beautifully flawed and that left a lot of room for character development. Although the female protagonist of the story was a bit flat at times for me. I didn't like her, but I didn't dislike her either.
And so I'll have to give this one a firm 4 stars.
Don't get me wrong, the characters in this book were still amazing; one in particular was beautifully flawed and that left a lot of room for character development. Although the female protagonist of the story was a bit flat at times for me. I didn't like her, but I didn't dislike her either.
And so I'll have to give this one a firm 4 stars.
June 10, 2014
I just finished both Prince of Hearts and A Dark Heart in two days at the beach. This was my first experience with steampunk romance and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed them. A Dark Heart kept me engaged and wanting more, developing the main characters along with other characters for promising future escapades. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 19, 2016
I loved the book even though the hero was over the top with his angst and self loathing. He wasted a lot of time being drowned in self pity. But i loved the ending , .
I didn't like Percy much and I hope she isn't the one who will end up with Duke.
I didn't like Percy much and I hope she isn't the one who will end up with Duke.
January 26, 2014
I finally got to reading this book and I just could not put it down. I can't wait for the next one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 6, 2019
Review of 2019 Re-Read:
I originally read this book back in 2014 for the first time, when it was newly released. I didn't know when I read it that it was only half a story or that I'd have to wait until 2016 to get the third book in the series.
I kept my eye on the series, because I'd fallen in love with book 1 and although I didn't find book 2 as engaging, I needed to know what had happened. It's sad that it's taken me this long to work it into my schedule, but I'm glad I chose to re-read the first two books, before delving into book 3, because it is absolutely necessary.
I had forgotten why I gave this book 4* instead of 5, but this re-read reminded me of the issues. The story dragged a little during the first half, but I could see that it was building the backstory. But it did that be constant repetition of Elijah's past, his worries about Ana not wanting him. There was a lot of will-they-won't-they that wasn't as natural as in book 1. Then the second half of the story came along and whipped along at break-neck speed. The last 20-30 pages in particular felt a bit rushed and left us with an ending that felt incomplete. So sudden, leaving so many unanswered questions, it felt like an interlude to the story rather than an ending.
Which leaves me a little frustrated. While Book 1 is a complete story and can be read as a standalone, you can't say the same for book 2. You could pick up book 2 and follow it, mostly, without having read book 1, but then you would be obligated to read book 3, to find out the ending to the plot, because it doesn't have a solid ending the same way book 1 did. And, if it wasn't for the re-read of books 1-2 before I venture into book 3, I doubt I would understand anything happening, despite the "Previously" of book 3 being a repeat of the "Epilogue" of book 2.
I ended book 2 feeling frustrated and uncertain if I'll ever get the answers to my questions: Why is Percy bonded? To whom? What will happen to Rowan? Why are we getting Hex's POV? Does this mean we'll see Rowan/Hex's story? If so, what about Brightlingsea's story? What happened to Steig? If Rowan was sent back in time, then doesn't that mean that Steig was too? And all the leeches? Which means that they could all change the future with their actions?
-
Continuing:
Sadly, I don't think I'll ever find out. It took 3 years for book 3 to make an appearance, when it was such an integral part of book 2's plot, and I've just seen that the author isn't actively working on this series, but on another pen-name. At this point, having waited 3-years for a finale to this series, I'm disappointed. I didn't bond with Hex at all in book 2 and honestly can't bring myself to read an entire book about this character. She wasn't my cup of tea at all - arrogant, snappish, entitled and behaving like a brat for 99% of the time she was on page, it was only in the Epilogue that I actually saw a human side to her, and by then it was too late. While I love Rowan, I don't want to see him get together with Hex. I don't feel that she's a good fit for him. And, knowing that there are 3 more books planned but nothing written, I have to make the decision of whether to hang on and re-read again every time a new book is released with years in between, or of whether to bow out.
I'll be bowing out. I love book 1. It will always be my favourite and it will be a solid re-read option for me, in the future. But I don't think I'll be re-reading book 2 with its incomplete ending again. Nor will I be reading more of the series. Which is a shame, because it's a fantastic world, with an original plot, great characters, and it was a nice journey to go on. But I can't justify constantly re-reading the previous books, to remind myself of where the intricate plot left off, every time a new book is released, because it's been so long. There are more books out there that I want to read, so I'll be turning my attention to those, from now on.
I originally read this book back in 2014 for the first time, when it was newly released. I didn't know when I read it that it was only half a story or that I'd have to wait until 2016 to get the third book in the series.
I kept my eye on the series, because I'd fallen in love with book 1 and although I didn't find book 2 as engaging, I needed to know what had happened. It's sad that it's taken me this long to work it into my schedule, but I'm glad I chose to re-read the first two books, before delving into book 3, because it is absolutely necessary.
I had forgotten why I gave this book 4* instead of 5, but this re-read reminded me of the issues. The story dragged a little during the first half, but I could see that it was building the backstory. But it did that be constant repetition of Elijah's past, his worries about Ana not wanting him. There was a lot of will-they-won't-they that wasn't as natural as in book 1. Then the second half of the story came along and whipped along at break-neck speed. The last 20-30 pages in particular felt a bit rushed and left us with an ending that felt incomplete. So sudden, leaving so many unanswered questions, it felt like an interlude to the story rather than an ending.
Which leaves me a little frustrated. While Book 1 is a complete story and can be read as a standalone, you can't say the same for book 2. You could pick up book 2 and follow it, mostly, without having read book 1, but then you would be obligated to read book 3, to find out the ending to the plot, because it doesn't have a solid ending the same way book 1 did. And, if it wasn't for the re-read of books 1-2 before I venture into book 3, I doubt I would understand anything happening, despite the "Previously" of book 3 being a repeat of the "Epilogue" of book 2.
I ended book 2 feeling frustrated and uncertain if I'll ever get the answers to my questions: Why is Percy bonded? To whom? What will happen to Rowan? Why are we getting Hex's POV? Does this mean we'll see Rowan/Hex's story? If so, what about Brightlingsea's story? What happened to Steig? If Rowan was sent back in time, then doesn't that mean that Steig was too? And all the leeches? Which means that they could all change the future with their actions?
-
Continuing:
Sadly, I don't think I'll ever find out. It took 3 years for book 3 to make an appearance, when it was such an integral part of book 2's plot, and I've just seen that the author isn't actively working on this series, but on another pen-name. At this point, having waited 3-years for a finale to this series, I'm disappointed. I didn't bond with Hex at all in book 2 and honestly can't bring myself to read an entire book about this character. She wasn't my cup of tea at all - arrogant, snappish, entitled and behaving like a brat for 99% of the time she was on page, it was only in the Epilogue that I actually saw a human side to her, and by then it was too late. While I love Rowan, I don't want to see him get together with Hex. I don't feel that she's a good fit for him. And, knowing that there are 3 more books planned but nothing written, I have to make the decision of whether to hang on and re-read again every time a new book is released with years in between, or of whether to bow out.
I'll be bowing out. I love book 1. It will always be my favourite and it will be a solid re-read option for me, in the future. But I don't think I'll be re-reading book 2 with its incomplete ending again. Nor will I be reading more of the series. Which is a shame, because it's a fantastic world, with an original plot, great characters, and it was a nice journey to go on. But I can't justify constantly re-reading the previous books, to remind myself of where the intricate plot left off, every time a new book is released, because it's been so long. There are more books out there that I want to read, so I'll be turning my attention to those, from now on.
May 6, 2023
2.5 stars. Ok, so this is the second in a series. I really liked the romance in the first book, but this one seems underdeveloped. Also, I think that the overarching plot is ok, but it ended on a cliffhanger where they imply that
June 15, 2020
My feelings towards the book are tempered by the fact that there may not be any conclusion to these adventures, including, and I'm waiting, Ms Foxe, for Percy's story. The other characters may not like her, but I think she is amazing. Christiana only reaches this level of strength towards the end, although she does have moments of bravery throughout. She says herself she's been sheltered all her life and she says she's somewhat uninteresting and she is right. I guess I can't blame the girl. She's self-aware at least.
To be honest, I am much more interested in all the other characters. Who/what is Hex, if she is that fast? Are all those born of Elders twins? Does that explain Percy? You can see why I'm not happy these questions may not be answered.
There are simply not enough good romantic steampunks in the world!
To be honest, I am much more interested in all the other characters. Who/what is Hex, if she is that fast? Are all those born of Elders twins? Does that explain Percy? You can see why I'm not happy these questions may not be answered.
There are simply not enough good romantic steampunks in the world!
July 13, 2020
3.5 stars
My thoughts before reading this books were Why are Elijah and Christiana getting a book. I was completely uninterested in them in Prince of hearts and I think I speak for everyone when I say. I want a Duke of Brightlingsea's book, but here we are so let's go.
That being said I'm jaded, so don't judge the book too harshly.
The themes in this book were very dark. Trigger warnings for pedophilia, child rape, self loathing, suicidal thoughts. These themes are not very graphic but still influenced my enjoyment of this book, while I wasn't turned off entirely by this, I still did not like the characters in this book. With that said the story was still good with the last chapter being the best, it made reading this book worth it because of what goes on and the things that are revealed. So now I can't wait to read Rowans book.
My thoughts before reading this books were Why are Elijah and Christiana getting a book. I was completely uninterested in them in Prince of hearts and I think I speak for everyone when I say. I want a Duke of Brightlingsea's book, but here we are so let's go.
That being said I'm jaded, so don't judge the book too harshly.
The themes in this book were very dark. Trigger warnings for pedophilia, child rape, self loathing, suicidal thoughts. These themes are not very graphic but still influenced my enjoyment of this book, while I wasn't turned off entirely by this, I still did not like the characters in this book. With that said the story was still good with the last chapter being the best, it made reading this book worth it because of what goes on and the things that are revealed. So now I can't wait to read Rowans book.
February 10, 2019
I really enjoyed the first book in the series and I will definitely read the third but I found this a little disappointing as feels a bit like filler. I still give it a high rating because I enjoy all the main characters but I felt the plot was confusing.
There were too many characters with a first name beginning with 'H', to the point where at one point I had assumed Hex was a nickname for Helen and that the author was referring to the same person and I don't even remember being introduced to the character Helen.
This is supposed to be the love story of Ana and Elijah but the ending wasn't even about them it was just setting up the next book and I think that is a bit shoddy really. It should have had an ending and then an epilogue if the author wanted to link to the next book.
There were too many characters with a first name beginning with 'H', to the point where at one point I had assumed Hex was a nickname for Helen and that the author was referring to the same person and I don't even remember being introduced to the character Helen.
This is supposed to be the love story of Ana and Elijah but the ending wasn't even about them it was just setting up the next book and I think that is a bit shoddy really. It should have had an ending and then an epilogue if the author wanted to link to the next book.
January 18, 2020
I want to like these books more
I would give this second installment of the Elders and Welders a 3.5. I liked it marginally more than the first book, but I’m still trying to decide whether the author is purposefully making her heroines into damsels in distress types of characters.
I like the world that the author has created, but I think she could have expanded more on the backstory of her heroine and on the history of the relationship between the two characters. This book was focused on the hero to such an extent that I thought his relationship with her and their intense connection was never explained in a satisfactory manner.
Still an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the third book
I would give this second installment of the Elders and Welders a 3.5. I liked it marginally more than the first book, but I’m still trying to decide whether the author is purposefully making her heroines into damsels in distress types of characters.
I like the world that the author has created, but I think she could have expanded more on the backstory of her heroine and on the history of the relationship between the two characters. This book was focused on the hero to such an extent that I thought his relationship with her and their intense connection was never explained in a satisfactory manner.
Still an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the third book
May 4, 2015
Book – Dark Heart (Elders and Welders Chronicles #2)
Author – Margaret Foxe
Star rating - ★★★★☆
Plot – half and half
Characters – nice continuation from book 1
Movie Potential - ★★★★☆
Ease of reading – very easy to read
Cover - ✔
Suitable Title - ✔
Would I read it again – Yes
**I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
For me, this is a book of two halves. So I'm going to explore both sides separately then together.
1st Half - ★★★☆☆
Reading this book straight after Prince of Hearts was perhaps not my best move. I can't help but compare the male MC Drexler (minor character from book 1) to Romanov. And sadly, he just doesn't compare.
The same goes for a comparison between Finch and Lady Christiana. Christian is a little more foppish and tame than Finch, who was a firecracker right from the start. I don't see the same fight or gumption in Christiana. And I don't see any of the dark humour or likeability in Drexler.
Romanov was intriguing, knew he was a monster and accepted his fate and his history, but he also pushed that aside to do good and put on a mark of pleasantness and indifference for the world. Drexler is so much darker. I get that, considering his past. It makes sense, but there's no lightness in between. Romanov's humour provided moments of relief, from the darkness and violence, but Drexler's personality doesn't provide anything of the sort.
I also don't believe in Drexler and Christiana's romance. It relates to things that, as we start the book, have all happened off page. Romanov's attraction to Finch, and hers to him, was slow burning and tantalising. There was always that doubt of whether he would fight his demons or if she could give up her independence for them to be together. I don't see that with these two. Drexler is adamant that he doesn't want her, and when he does feel an attraction, it's purely for her blood or her body. Romanov was romantic in finding Finch attractive while sneezing, or looking furious; there's no hint that Drexler even likes Christiana. And that, for me, just doesn't work.
2nd Half - ★★★★★
This is where the book, for me, really picks up. You start to see the demon in Drexler and how hard he fights to keep his real feelings from even himself, never mind from Christiana. The back story is better explored here, as is the real romance between Christiana and Drexler. There's more emotion than primal desire and that makes more sense, especially when their internal struggles are explored.
This is also the part of the book where Christiana grows a backbone. She stops feeling sorry for herself and decides to stand up and be counted as an equal, instead of waiting for someone to hand her equality on a plate. She seemed ungrateful, selfish and ignorant of what was obvious in the first half. In the second, she begins to see past the surface and realise that everyone has secrets.
This is also where she begins to realise that she's not being treated like a child because the person wants to keep her young and innocent, but because she allows them to treat her that way. And that makes a big difference, to how she sees herself and the world. In the first half, she says
“Of course, the odds had been stacked against her from the beginning because of her sex.” But that was no excuse for Aline, and it never stopped her from becoming an independent female, regardless of society's expectations for her.
Saying that, I was really pleased to see Aline and Sasha back in the story, even if only marginally. I would have loved to read more from them.
Overall - ★★★★☆
I really didn't get this story, until the halfway point. When Drexler had his 'near-death' moment, things began making sense. His relationship with Christiana became more about the trust and faith they had in each other, developed over the years they'd known each other, than it was about romance. It all centred on Drexler keeping a secret that he thought would destroy her and any relationship they might have, while Christiana tried hard to fight his secretive nature and the beast inside him.
I can't help thinking that if Drexler and Christiana had never kept secrets from each other, there probably wouldn't have been a book. That's where the 3 stars comes from. The romance, for me, didn't keep up to par with book 1, which was scorching, realistic and as fiery as the two MCs. Drexler and Christiana sort of fizzled, lightly, below the surface. The constant drama between them, along with the fact that it took them so many years to get to that point, is what lowers the rating. It doesn't feel realistic.
The 5 stars goes to the second half, for being original, incredible and captivating. The first half felt a little more like a love-sick romance than the real adventure Steampunk story that it became. I understand why, having read the whole book, but I wasn't glued to this book as I was to book 1. It took me about three days, whereas I had a burning need to complete book 1 in one day, and did.
The second half really lit up and explored the criminal aspect of the book that I was waiting to read more of. I also wanted Christiana to grow up and it took this long, for it to happen.
I have to admit that I loved the Duke. He was a real character and yes, he probably is cracked in the head, but he's also amazing. I can't wait to read his story.
But, if you don't like cliffhangers, then beware. This book ends on a doozie and book 3, as far as I know, isn't out yet. I'm hoping it won't be too long in coming out, or else I might have to re-read this book, to refresh my memory of everything I want answers to.
Author – Margaret Foxe
Star rating - ★★★★☆
Plot – half and half
Characters – nice continuation from book 1
Movie Potential - ★★★★☆
Ease of reading – very easy to read
Cover - ✔
Suitable Title - ✔
Would I read it again – Yes
**I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
For me, this is a book of two halves. So I'm going to explore both sides separately then together.
1st Half - ★★★☆☆
Reading this book straight after Prince of Hearts was perhaps not my best move. I can't help but compare the male MC Drexler (minor character from book 1) to Romanov. And sadly, he just doesn't compare.
The same goes for a comparison between Finch and Lady Christiana. Christian is a little more foppish and tame than Finch, who was a firecracker right from the start. I don't see the same fight or gumption in Christiana. And I don't see any of the dark humour or likeability in Drexler.
Romanov was intriguing, knew he was a monster and accepted his fate and his history, but he also pushed that aside to do good and put on a mark of pleasantness and indifference for the world. Drexler is so much darker. I get that, considering his past. It makes sense, but there's no lightness in between. Romanov's humour provided moments of relief, from the darkness and violence, but Drexler's personality doesn't provide anything of the sort.
I also don't believe in Drexler and Christiana's romance. It relates to things that, as we start the book, have all happened off page. Romanov's attraction to Finch, and hers to him, was slow burning and tantalising. There was always that doubt of whether he would fight his demons or if she could give up her independence for them to be together. I don't see that with these two. Drexler is adamant that he doesn't want her, and when he does feel an attraction, it's purely for her blood or her body. Romanov was romantic in finding Finch attractive while sneezing, or looking furious; there's no hint that Drexler even likes Christiana. And that, for me, just doesn't work.
2nd Half - ★★★★★
This is where the book, for me, really picks up. You start to see the demon in Drexler and how hard he fights to keep his real feelings from even himself, never mind from Christiana. The back story is better explored here, as is the real romance between Christiana and Drexler. There's more emotion than primal desire and that makes more sense, especially when their internal struggles are explored.
This is also the part of the book where Christiana grows a backbone. She stops feeling sorry for herself and decides to stand up and be counted as an equal, instead of waiting for someone to hand her equality on a plate. She seemed ungrateful, selfish and ignorant of what was obvious in the first half. In the second, she begins to see past the surface and realise that everyone has secrets.
This is also where she begins to realise that she's not being treated like a child because the person wants to keep her young and innocent, but because she allows them to treat her that way. And that makes a big difference, to how she sees herself and the world. In the first half, she says
“Of course, the odds had been stacked against her from the beginning because of her sex.” But that was no excuse for Aline, and it never stopped her from becoming an independent female, regardless of society's expectations for her.
Saying that, I was really pleased to see Aline and Sasha back in the story, even if only marginally. I would have loved to read more from them.
Overall - ★★★★☆
I really didn't get this story, until the halfway point. When Drexler had his 'near-death' moment, things began making sense. His relationship with Christiana became more about the trust and faith they had in each other, developed over the years they'd known each other, than it was about romance. It all centred on Drexler keeping a secret that he thought would destroy her and any relationship they might have, while Christiana tried hard to fight his secretive nature and the beast inside him.
I can't help thinking that if Drexler and Christiana had never kept secrets from each other, there probably wouldn't have been a book. That's where the 3 stars comes from. The romance, for me, didn't keep up to par with book 1, which was scorching, realistic and as fiery as the two MCs. Drexler and Christiana sort of fizzled, lightly, below the surface. The constant drama between them, along with the fact that it took them so many years to get to that point, is what lowers the rating. It doesn't feel realistic.
The 5 stars goes to the second half, for being original, incredible and captivating. The first half felt a little more like a love-sick romance than the real adventure Steampunk story that it became. I understand why, having read the whole book, but I wasn't glued to this book as I was to book 1. It took me about three days, whereas I had a burning need to complete book 1 in one day, and did.
The second half really lit up and explored the criminal aspect of the book that I was waiting to read more of. I also wanted Christiana to grow up and it took this long, for it to happen.
I have to admit that I loved the Duke. He was a real character and yes, he probably is cracked in the head, but he's also amazing. I can't wait to read his story.
But, if you don't like cliffhangers, then beware. This book ends on a doozie and book 3, as far as I know, isn't out yet. I'm hoping it won't be too long in coming out, or else I might have to re-read this book, to refresh my memory of everything I want answers to.
June 5, 2019
A Dark Heart Book 2
This book was very sad and hard to read when it talked about child slavery. I didn't realuze when I purchased it this was the plot.I think Ms. Foxe handle a difficult subject well, however I didn' t believe his transformation from a man who hated himself for years and suddenly he is whole, functioning and in love. The solution was too easy and not enough depth.
This book was very sad and hard to read when it talked about child slavery. I didn't realuze when I purchased it this was the plot.I think Ms. Foxe handle a difficult subject well, however I didn' t believe his transformation from a man who hated himself for years and suddenly he is whole, functioning and in love. The solution was too easy and not enough depth.
June 6, 2017
A Dark Heart is not always what's in the name of it, while the story unravels and the secrets unveil the good outweighs the bad and the dark sparkles and shines. A touching life story, heart aching love story and intriguing bells and whistles, it captivates you and keeps you in tight bindings, sigh, until the end. Stay Inspired !!
September 7, 2018
Good read!
I have enjoyed this one just as I did the first in the series. It is a nice balance of elements. It uses a steampunk environment but doesn't pull a Jules Verne and describe fishes for 20 pages. It gives away plot, but I loved how emotionally vulnerable the main characters got and how that was integral to their relationship.
I have enjoyed this one just as I did the first in the series. It is a nice balance of elements. It uses a steampunk environment but doesn't pull a Jules Verne and describe fishes for 20 pages. It gives away plot, but I loved how emotionally vulnerable the main characters got and how that was integral to their relationship.
November 24, 2019
Just as good as the first
If you like this genre - and it isn’t for everyone - or this author you’ll enjoy the second story in this trilogy just as much as the first. She creates a pretty fanciful world but it is well-developed, detailed and believable (if you want to believe it). Lots of passion, adventure and danger. Really fun.
If you like this genre - and it isn’t for everyone - or this author you’ll enjoy the second story in this trilogy just as much as the first. She creates a pretty fanciful world but it is well-developed, detailed and believable (if you want to believe it). Lots of passion, adventure and danger. Really fun.
November 22, 2017
Fascinating series
I’m really enjoying this series. I loved this one because I started to feel a little hopeless that it would work out (and that’s always fun). I’m off to read the next one now...
I’m really enjoying this series. I loved this one because I started to feel a little hopeless that it would work out (and that’s always fun). I’m off to read the next one now...
April 26, 2019
Intriguing
This series... Elijah and Ana made my heart happy, despite the angst. He survived such agony, and she never gave up hope. And I want to see the rest of the cast and their stories. This world is incredibly compelling.
This series... Elijah and Ana made my heart happy, despite the angst. He survived such agony, and she never gave up hope. And I want to see the rest of the cast and their stories. This world is incredibly compelling.
August 10, 2017
Pretty good
This is a good sequel focusing on inspector Drexel and Lady Christiana.
IMPORTANT: Trigger warnings though for child sexual abuse.
This is a good sequel focusing on inspector Drexel and Lady Christiana.
IMPORTANT: Trigger warnings though for child sexual abuse.
December 27, 2020
It was not the best book but the end made it all worth it! I was so surprised by THAT end and I am already on the third book!
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