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Mourning Grey
“There is a war between the Dark and Light forces. If there is no balance, then only one can prevail. This has gone on since the beginning of time, and it will end. Whether you acknowledge it or not, you are a tool of the Light Guardian, while I am a tool of the Dark Guardian. How can we ever find a union being on opposite sides?”
When Cassandra finds out that it's her destiny to destroy the last of the vampires, she vows to find another way to end the deadly feud.
In trying to save both humans and the ancient race, and prevent the next war from happening, she falls in love with her enemy.
Cassandra is thrown into a world of horror and magic, love and hate, and forbidden love.
The game between Dark and Light begins in this first book of the Empians Pantheon trilogy.
'It gives the old vampire story an epic feel!'
When Cassandra finds out that it's her destiny to destroy the last of the vampires, she vows to find another way to end the deadly feud.
In trying to save both humans and the ancient race, and prevent the next war from happening, she falls in love with her enemy.
Cassandra is thrown into a world of horror and magic, love and hate, and forbidden love.
The game between Dark and Light begins in this first book of the Empians Pantheon trilogy.
'It gives the old vampire story an epic feel!'
- GenresBook Club
352 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2023
1 person is currently reading
20371 people want to read
About the author
Marie Montine
11 books423 followersMarie lives and works in northern Canada with her husband and poet, Alvin, and their dogs, Luna and Mya.
She has loved writing since winning a short story contest way back in grade four and hasn't stopped since.
Her work mainly includes paranormal and horror, but she considers herself a multi-genre author.
Red River is the only story that doesn't include horror, paranormal, sci-fi or fantasy.
On her free time, she enjoys walking the beautiful northern trails, watching a good sci-fi or suspense tv series, and gaming.
She has loved writing since winning a short story contest way back in grade four and hasn't stopped since.
Her work mainly includes paranormal and horror, but she considers herself a multi-genre author.
Red River is the only story that doesn't include horror, paranormal, sci-fi or fantasy.
On her free time, she enjoys walking the beautiful northern trails, watching a good sci-fi or suspense tv series, and gaming.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 3, 2021
‘It is only through mystery and madness that the soul is revealed’ – Thomas Moore
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the second volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments – ‘a saga that explores the lives living under the Guardians of Light and Dark, and that some things exist in the grey, such as love.’
In the initial volume of this saga Marie created strong – yet vulnerable – characters about whom we care and are eager to follow as this story sweeps on. For those who have read Part One, the opening of this volume is a welcome return to that special place and atmosphere Marie has created. For those who are new to this sage, the opening lines grasp attention: ‘The room reminded Cassandra of the eyes of a man who held her imprisoned: cold and gray. She moaned and twisted about in bed. Her veins were on fire, breathing a hot urgency into them, warming her body to repair itself before it was too late. Shadows surrounded her, still and lonely, until one escaped the corner of the room and became one on its own: Lharkin…’
Having established durable characters in the initial volume, the saga progresses as follows: ‘Having joined Lharkin's family of Kins and becoming a vampire, Cassandra believed she was getting closer to Lharkin. When they both learn the startling truth behind both of their pasts, Lharkin becomes even more distant. Until he is ready to open up to her, Cassandra decides to focus on her newfound powers, re-establishing a friendship with an old friend, and getting to the temple of the ancient Empians. Cassandra only knows one thing for sure: she must find a way for Lharkin to regain the Light in order to avoid the next war between the Humans and the Empian's vampires. Meanwhile, Audray struggles with not only losing the Prince, but the shocking truth behind Lharkin's plans. However, she cannot tell anyone or it would cost the lives of everyone she loves. She hopes Cassandra can find out the truth before it's too late.’
That delicate line between fantasy and reality widens as Marie enhances her story with yet more fascinating changes and ideas. The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the second volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments – ‘a saga that explores the lives living under the Guardians of Light and Dark, and that some things exist in the grey, such as love.’
In the initial volume of this saga Marie created strong – yet vulnerable – characters about whom we care and are eager to follow as this story sweeps on. For those who have read Part One, the opening of this volume is a welcome return to that special place and atmosphere Marie has created. For those who are new to this sage, the opening lines grasp attention: ‘The room reminded Cassandra of the eyes of a man who held her imprisoned: cold and gray. She moaned and twisted about in bed. Her veins were on fire, breathing a hot urgency into them, warming her body to repair itself before it was too late. Shadows surrounded her, still and lonely, until one escaped the corner of the room and became one on its own: Lharkin…’
Having established durable characters in the initial volume, the saga progresses as follows: ‘Having joined Lharkin's family of Kins and becoming a vampire, Cassandra believed she was getting closer to Lharkin. When they both learn the startling truth behind both of their pasts, Lharkin becomes even more distant. Until he is ready to open up to her, Cassandra decides to focus on her newfound powers, re-establishing a friendship with an old friend, and getting to the temple of the ancient Empians. Cassandra only knows one thing for sure: she must find a way for Lharkin to regain the Light in order to avoid the next war between the Humans and the Empian's vampires. Meanwhile, Audray struggles with not only losing the Prince, but the shocking truth behind Lharkin's plans. However, she cannot tell anyone or it would cost the lives of everyone she loves. She hopes Cassandra can find out the truth before it's too late.’
That delicate line between fantasy and reality widens as Marie enhances her story with yet more fascinating changes and ideas. The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
August 2, 2021
‘I have found so much beauty in the Dark, as I have found a lot of horror in the Light’
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the first volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments – ‘a saga that explores the lives living under the Guardians of Light and Dark, and that some things exist in the grey, such as love.’
Composing an extended series that explores the paranormal realm is a challenge too few authors master: creating a ‘reality’ that will include surreal characters (such as vampires) must be grounded enough for the reader to enter into the belief system required in order for the variations of normal to be poignant. Marie succeeds in that effort, painting a luminous atmosphere that is inviting and worthy of visiting.
The aura of the Prologue attests to the above: ‘Six years ago…The moonlight touched the silver specks in his unmoving eyes and caressed the hard angles of his grey face. ‘Had I made a mistake in killing her,’ Lharkin wondered. His sister Lazri bent down next to the door. She moved back her dark hood, leaned forward, and exhaled onto the piled tender. The dust she expelled sparked, and the kindling combusted. Within moments. the fire devoured the entire house and blazed into the sky. The inferno brought Lharkin’s pale complexion to life, and the flames danced in his eyes. His sister was watching him. “What is it?” “I saw something inside: a woman in the mirror,” he said. The Dark Guardian of the Night Realm landed in front of them, closing his wings around his body…if the Guardian wished it so, he could inhale their souls into the spirit realm.’
Establishing durable characters early on in a projected series is a talent Marie owns. She provides a terse plot outline: ‘Cassandra Wynstrom auditions for a play at the Queen's Theatre that depicts the last war between the Humans and Empians, thus between Light and Dark. When she is pursued by the last Empian named Lharkin, she learns that he has created vampires out of desperation; to continue his bloodline. When she sees visions of an ancient temple that defy the story told in the play, she is confronted with choices. She either has to pick her destiny or her heart...as she is falling for the one whom she is enemies with. A vampire only known as Audray finds her new life as Lharkin's follower troubling; she must help the Empian find a way to convince Cassandra to join them before the human realizes who she really is. When Audray seeks comfort in the arms of the Queen's son, she struggles with the inevitable: that she must eventually tell him what she is.’
Part One introduces characters and ideas that will likely continue to blossom in the coming installments. The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the first volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments – ‘a saga that explores the lives living under the Guardians of Light and Dark, and that some things exist in the grey, such as love.’
Composing an extended series that explores the paranormal realm is a challenge too few authors master: creating a ‘reality’ that will include surreal characters (such as vampires) must be grounded enough for the reader to enter into the belief system required in order for the variations of normal to be poignant. Marie succeeds in that effort, painting a luminous atmosphere that is inviting and worthy of visiting.
The aura of the Prologue attests to the above: ‘Six years ago…The moonlight touched the silver specks in his unmoving eyes and caressed the hard angles of his grey face. ‘Had I made a mistake in killing her,’ Lharkin wondered. His sister Lazri bent down next to the door. She moved back her dark hood, leaned forward, and exhaled onto the piled tender. The dust she expelled sparked, and the kindling combusted. Within moments. the fire devoured the entire house and blazed into the sky. The inferno brought Lharkin’s pale complexion to life, and the flames danced in his eyes. His sister was watching him. “What is it?” “I saw something inside: a woman in the mirror,” he said. The Dark Guardian of the Night Realm landed in front of them, closing his wings around his body…if the Guardian wished it so, he could inhale their souls into the spirit realm.’
Establishing durable characters early on in a projected series is a talent Marie owns. She provides a terse plot outline: ‘Cassandra Wynstrom auditions for a play at the Queen's Theatre that depicts the last war between the Humans and Empians, thus between Light and Dark. When she is pursued by the last Empian named Lharkin, she learns that he has created vampires out of desperation; to continue his bloodline. When she sees visions of an ancient temple that defy the story told in the play, she is confronted with choices. She either has to pick her destiny or her heart...as she is falling for the one whom she is enemies with. A vampire only known as Audray finds her new life as Lharkin's follower troubling; she must help the Empian find a way to convince Cassandra to join them before the human realizes who she really is. When Audray seeks comfort in the arms of the Queen's son, she struggles with the inevitable: that she must eventually tell him what she is.’
Part One introduces characters and ideas that will likely continue to blossom in the coming installments. The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
August 4, 2021
‘I lost my way, all the way to you, and in you I found all the way back to me’ - Atticus
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the third volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments, though this book is noted by the author to be ‘the exciting conclusion.’ So we must wait and discover...is there more or is that for the reader to decide as this volume closes?
In the initial volume of this saga Marie created strong – yet vulnerable – characters about whom we care and are eager to follow as this story sweeps on. For those who have read Part One and Part Two, the opening of this volume is a welcome return to that special place and atmosphere Marie has created. For those who are new to this sage, the opening lines grasp attention: ‘The Kins trudged across the hot sand with leaden feet. The closer they got the further away the temple appeared. Cassandra’s limbs burned from exhaustion. Audray and Samantha walked next to her. The sun rose higher yet. Without the jungle to shade them, they received the heat straight on, sweat itching their scalps and body. Cassandra longed for a cool bath with a large cup of…blood…Empian blood…’Catch them…before they are gone forever…’
Having established durable characters in the initial volume, the saga progresses as follows: ‘Having reached the land belonging to the ancient Empians, Cassandra's visions become stronger just as does her powers. Being the prophesied woman to end the last Empian, she is conflicted, as she has also grown close Lharkin's family. She vows to stop the next war from happening so that everyone could survive: the humans, the vampires known as Kins, and the Empian she had fallen in love with: Lharkin. Distracted with uncovering the temple's history and secrets, Cassandra doesn't see her best friend's depth of despair, and that Audray holds the greatest secret. In Cassandra's final attempt to bring Lharkin back to the LIght, she finds out the shocking truth he has been hiding from everyone, except Audray, and it is then she understands why her friend has been so distant. Cassandra wonders who is really pulling the strings: Lharkin or the Dark Guardian of the Night Realm. Will Cassandra fulfill the prophecy? Or follow her own heart?’
After a very dramatic ending, Marie assures us the saga is not over: the theme is to be continued in her next book ARISING SON! The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
Canadian author Marie Montine focuses her writing on science fiction and paranormal themes. Her initial work was offered under the name M.C. Glan – MIDNIGHT ON MARS, a science fiction novella. Now using the name Marie Montine she delivers a paranormal series, MOURNING GREY: THE GUARDIANS OF THE TEMPLE, of which this novel is the third volume. The series is projected at this time to be four installments, though this book is noted by the author to be ‘the exciting conclusion.’ So we must wait and discover...is there more or is that for the reader to decide as this volume closes?
In the initial volume of this saga Marie created strong – yet vulnerable – characters about whom we care and are eager to follow as this story sweeps on. For those who have read Part One and Part Two, the opening of this volume is a welcome return to that special place and atmosphere Marie has created. For those who are new to this sage, the opening lines grasp attention: ‘The Kins trudged across the hot sand with leaden feet. The closer they got the further away the temple appeared. Cassandra’s limbs burned from exhaustion. Audray and Samantha walked next to her. The sun rose higher yet. Without the jungle to shade them, they received the heat straight on, sweat itching their scalps and body. Cassandra longed for a cool bath with a large cup of…blood…Empian blood…’Catch them…before they are gone forever…’
Having established durable characters in the initial volume, the saga progresses as follows: ‘Having reached the land belonging to the ancient Empians, Cassandra's visions become stronger just as does her powers. Being the prophesied woman to end the last Empian, she is conflicted, as she has also grown close Lharkin's family. She vows to stop the next war from happening so that everyone could survive: the humans, the vampires known as Kins, and the Empian she had fallen in love with: Lharkin. Distracted with uncovering the temple's history and secrets, Cassandra doesn't see her best friend's depth of despair, and that Audray holds the greatest secret. In Cassandra's final attempt to bring Lharkin back to the LIght, she finds out the shocking truth he has been hiding from everyone, except Audray, and it is then she understands why her friend has been so distant. Cassandra wonders who is really pulling the strings: Lharkin or the Dark Guardian of the Night Realm. Will Cassandra fulfill the prophecy? Or follow her own heart?’
After a very dramatic ending, Marie assures us the saga is not over: the theme is to be continued in her next book ARISING SON! The series is intended for young adults – and for all readers who enjoy paranormal sagas!
August 7, 2021
Cassandra is the daughter of a pronoun seamstress who was called to the royal city to make a dress for the queen. While they’re Cassandra is overly protective so one day while she’s out she sees her mother and ROZES down an alley I’ll wait to be stopped by a man telling her she is perfect. He wanted her to try out for a plate and she did. Little did Cassandra know her fairytale play would all be reality and her new mysterious friend coral would play the enemy. This is a book about good and evil vampires and humans in over a book it is. I am not a big fan of the vampire genre but the prologue drag me in and the storyline kept me there. This is such a good story from the play that tells of a distant war, To the things in her life that will eventually bring her to a personal war only she can decide. All of this makes for a great book there is so much to this book it’s so many different things that keep you reading. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves supernatural and from experience I can say if you do not like vampire books no worries I don’t either, but this one is worth the luck.
November 8, 2023
This is a dark fantasy story of magic and vampires, and one woman who is destined to kill the last of them. But she’s not sure she wants to do it. She tries to find a way to resolve the conflict without bloodshed. There’s a forbidden love intertwined in the mystery and intrigue of the narrative.
Although the plot is different than many vampire books I’ve read, parts of the story still felt familiar. The romance between a vampire and a human was reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Twilight. And Part Three begins with a picture of someone who looks suspiciously like Edward from the Twilight movies.
The world-building is good, and the characters are well drawn. It’s dark fantasy and horror mixed in together and done rather well. The twists and turns creep up at just the right moments, just when you get comfortable and think you know where it’s going. I found myself compelled to keep reading until I reached the end. Anyone interested in the genre will love this story.
Although the plot is different than many vampire books I’ve read, parts of the story still felt familiar. The romance between a vampire and a human was reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Twilight. And Part Three begins with a picture of someone who looks suspiciously like Edward from the Twilight movies.
The world-building is good, and the characters are well drawn. It’s dark fantasy and horror mixed in together and done rather well. The twists and turns creep up at just the right moments, just when you get comfortable and think you know where it’s going. I found myself compelled to keep reading until I reached the end. Anyone interested in the genre will love this story.
December 17, 2023
"Mourning Grey" introduces readers to a gripping tale of destiny, horror, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The story revolves around Cassandra, who learns that her destiny is to destroy the last of the vampires. Determined to find an alternative to end the deadly feud and prevent a looming war, Cassandra faces a perilous journey to save both humans and the ancient race.
The author weaves a narrative filled with horror, magic, love, and the complexities of forbidden emotions. As Cassandra navigates a world of shocking secrets, the book delves into the profound game between Dark and Light. The story unfolds as a compelling exploration of the balance between good and evil, showcasing the challenges and sacrifices faced by the protagonist.
"Mourning Grey" is an epic dark fantasy that captivates readers with its fresh take on paranormal romance and its intricate portrayal of the age-old conflict between dark and light.
The author weaves a narrative filled with horror, magic, love, and the complexities of forbidden emotions. As Cassandra navigates a world of shocking secrets, the book delves into the profound game between Dark and Light. The story unfolds as a compelling exploration of the balance between good and evil, showcasing the challenges and sacrifices faced by the protagonist.
"Mourning Grey" is an epic dark fantasy that captivates readers with its fresh take on paranormal romance and its intricate portrayal of the age-old conflict between dark and light.
December 4, 2023
This is an interesting concept of vampires, prophecy, and good vs. evil (light vs. dark). It is a detailed and imaginative world, and the plot continued to drive forward. If you like long page turners in a fantasy series, this book is for you. I especially liked the story-within-a-story moments.
There were multiple dynamics between characters and tension throughout. The end of the chapters had me curious to turn the page and find out what was coming next.
The author did an excellent job with foreshadowing and being detailed without slowing the story down. I have my favorite minor characters which were fleshed out enough to make them feel real and add to the story without distracting from the main plot. This had a “Game of Thrones” feel with the multiple regions and family history.
I can see how many would like this given the combination of vampires and fantasy.
There were multiple dynamics between characters and tension throughout. The end of the chapters had me curious to turn the page and find out what was coming next.
The author did an excellent job with foreshadowing and being detailed without slowing the story down. I have my favorite minor characters which were fleshed out enough to make them feel real and add to the story without distracting from the main plot. This had a “Game of Thrones” feel with the multiple regions and family history.
I can see how many would like this given the combination of vampires and fantasy.
January 4, 2024
Mourning Grey (The Empians Pantheon: Book One) is the first book I have read from this author and I must say it was quite a unique, entertaining dark fantasy story of classic forbidden romance. The story follows human protagonist Cassandra on her journey to a royal city where she is hired to make a dress for the queen. However, she is soon drawn into a conflict to stop a feuding war between her own kind and the vampires. This book adds a hint of uniqueness to the vampire genre by producing an epic story as well as a intriguing romance between the protagonist and her forbidden love interest, a vampire. It reminds me of twilight, but this story certainly centers more around being an epic story and exploring themes of love and hate, and war. Mourning grey was an exciting, interesting, epic read for me and I would like to read more from this author.
November 8, 2021
This is my first book by Marie Montine, I haven’t heard about this great author until this book, and I really have to say I was gladly surprised to have found this story, this is a paranormal fantasy, we get several tropes; kind of suddenly superhero, suddenly vampire? And of course, we get a love story…swoon.
The storyline flows smoothly and keeps you on the edge wanting to know more in every chapter, if you love fantasy paranormal romance this is totally for you.
The storyline flows smoothly and keeps you on the edge wanting to know more in every chapter, if you love fantasy paranormal romance this is totally for you.
January 31, 2025
great vampire story
It feels like a mix of multiple themes that keeps you gasping for more with bated breath. Love the story
It feels like a mix of multiple themes that keeps you gasping for more with bated breath. Love the story
September 9, 2021
Cassandra, melon, Audrey and the fam 💘Cassandra, melon, Audrey and the fellow can make it to the castle and take shelter. The castle still speaks to Cassandra but she has yet to decipher what it saying. While she is exploring of the castle, Gregory her father is in pursuit of her. He wants to bring her home but is worn by the queen is she is a true vampire she will be jailed and put to death. There is a lot at stake and not more than I am saying in this review. They have lots of great hand to hand combat, Romance and in this book you will learn even vampires get depressed. What a great finale to a great trilogy. Miss Martin is a skilled writer and this trilogy is the proof. I love every book in this collection. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves vampire stories and stories packed with the romance, action and friendship.
October 2, 2021
Now that Cassandra is a part of the Harqins family all is not OK in her world. She finds out some devastating news about her past and that a parking and now he’s colder than ever. Cassandra is worried he will be distracted there’s more to worry about though because a family member know something that could destroy all of them. I love this book and love how Cassandra came into her own with her abilities and confidence the ending made me sad but that’s just the mark of a great book I can’t wait for the third edition in the guardians of the temple saga.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews