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Color by Numbers #1
A Black and Solemn Silence
ENSNARED BY A SOUL
In the shadows of the forest, two shape-shifting kitsune Kuro, content with the solitude of the mountains, and his only ally Jaden, a demon with dark dreams for their future. When a figure from Kuro’s past snaps a photograph of the demon fox, the kitsune are forced to leave their home behind and follow him to Asheville in a bid to prevent its publication. But trouble has a way of accumulating around Kuro. When police secretary Caroline Lahey sees the kitsune from the top of her barn, she doesn’t hesitate to shoot. Captured, Kuro knows that killing her is his only chance at freedom… but it would also turn him into something he’s not, something that repels and disgusts him. Someone like Jaden. As Jaden tries to pull Kuro further into his world of violence, Kuro realizes he can no longer stomach the thought of bloodshed, but neither can he bring himself to reveal everything to Caroline. Forced to rely on her soul for his survival, his life becomes a precarious balancing act of hiding her existence from Jaden… and hiding Jaden’s violence from Caroline. Soon, Kuro finds himself trapped by his own lies, and when his balancing act fails, Jaden knows that Kuro will do anything to protect the woman he’s fallen in love with. Even, at last, kill.
A Black and Solemn Silence is a slowburn, paranormal, enemies-to-lovers romance and the first book in the adult urban fantasy Color by Numbers series. It includes adult themes and ends on a cliff-hanger. The Color by Numbers series is perfect for grown-up readers of the Gumiho duology and The Red Winter trilogy; content advisories are available on the copyright page.
In the shadows of the forest, two shape-shifting kitsune Kuro, content with the solitude of the mountains, and his only ally Jaden, a demon with dark dreams for their future. When a figure from Kuro’s past snaps a photograph of the demon fox, the kitsune are forced to leave their home behind and follow him to Asheville in a bid to prevent its publication. But trouble has a way of accumulating around Kuro. When police secretary Caroline Lahey sees the kitsune from the top of her barn, she doesn’t hesitate to shoot. Captured, Kuro knows that killing her is his only chance at freedom… but it would also turn him into something he’s not, something that repels and disgusts him. Someone like Jaden. As Jaden tries to pull Kuro further into his world of violence, Kuro realizes he can no longer stomach the thought of bloodshed, but neither can he bring himself to reveal everything to Caroline. Forced to rely on her soul for his survival, his life becomes a precarious balancing act of hiding her existence from Jaden… and hiding Jaden’s violence from Caroline. Soon, Kuro finds himself trapped by his own lies, and when his balancing act fails, Jaden knows that Kuro will do anything to protect the woman he’s fallen in love with. Even, at last, kill.
A Black and Solemn Silence is a slowburn, paranormal, enemies-to-lovers romance and the first book in the adult urban fantasy Color by Numbers series. It includes adult themes and ends on a cliff-hanger. The Color by Numbers series is perfect for grown-up readers of the Gumiho duology and The Red Winter trilogy; content advisories are available on the copyright page.
- GenresFantasy
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
3 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 8, 2024
A Black and Solemn Silence is a fast paced paranormal urban fantasy with a bit of an enemies to lovers romance and a ton of action.
Two shape shifters, Kuro and Jaden, are alone in the forest when someone from Kuro’s past takes a picture of him in his demon fox form. They begin a journey to find him before he’s able to post the picture. Kuro becomes injured after someone shoots him and he has to make a very difficult decision that will challenge his morals. This book was so fun to read! I got absolutely lost in the story and loved the characters. There was also an aspect of mystery that I loved alongside the romance. It had a little of everything and I thought it was great.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Danielle Thompson for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This published today!
Two shape shifters, Kuro and Jaden, are alone in the forest when someone from Kuro’s past takes a picture of him in his demon fox form. They begin a journey to find him before he’s able to post the picture. Kuro becomes injured after someone shoots him and he has to make a very difficult decision that will challenge his morals. This book was so fun to read! I got absolutely lost in the story and loved the characters. There was also an aspect of mystery that I loved alongside the romance. It had a little of everything and I thought it was great.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Danielle Thompson for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This published today!
May 12, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for permitting this book to be a Read Now to help members develop their Feedback Ratio in exchange for an honest review.
Review Summary:
This story follows two demons, Jaden and Kuro, as they navigate the human world. They are kitsune, fox demons who can shapeshift to appear as humans. As kitsune they can only survive by ‘feeding’ on the souls and emotions of humans… with a twist. They can only feed on the negative such as fear, anxiety and sadness. We follow our characters as they try to evade discovery of their true form following a widely publicised incident, while also trying to learn more about their kitsune abilities and their ancestry. All the while Kuro and Jaden learn more about each other and their seemingly unbreakable bond, and how this has influenced their interactions with others. Simultaneously we follow Kenneth, a human involved in their near-discovery, who becomes determined to find the pair and solve the mysterious incidences occurring since their arrival. I would definitely advise looking up the content warnings for this novel.
Positives are that this novel has a truly engaging plot, mixing fantasy with romance and thriller mystery. I finished this story within two days, I was so enthralled. The book also deals with some really complex emotional and psychological phenomena such as trauma bonding, depression and grief. This added some real depth to the story. I adored the slow burn pacing as it allowed me to feel so much more invested. The romances depicted in the novel are pretty controversial, but I still really enjoyed them.
Negatives were mostly related to the Kenneth POV, which I felt needed a little more development to match the quality of Kuro’s. There were some occasional inconsistencies with the lore and prose.
4 stars. Dark, controversial but so beautifully written. With a couple of issues ironed out this could have been a perfect 5 stars for me.
FULL REVIEW BELOW - SPOILERS HIDDEN FOR DESKTOP USERS ONLY. APP USERS BE AWARE.
World-building:
The novel is based in the United States, in a forested rural area where Kuro feels most comfortable to hide in his Kitsune form and avoid excessive mingling with humans. The vast, expansive and often isolating environment was very well written with the underlying fear and anxiety of being in the middle of nowhere, and nowhere near any form of aid, being captured well. The lore and the history of the kitsune is largely a mystery even to the two kitsune themselves which added to the fear of the unknown. Watching Kuro and Jaden wield the powers they do know about was fascinating, and even being such a complex and unquantifiable ability as to search through souls the writing made it feel truly palpable. Later on as we start to pick up on more potential knowledge of the kitsune it lends itself beautifully to the characters own development. .
Characterisation:
This book didn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the human mind, with almost all of the relationships explored in the novel being toxic in some way.
Kuro is a fascinating main character. His emotionally abusive kinship founded on trauma bonding with Jaden has left him with no true sense of self, whether that be worth or belief. He has always felt he is totally reliant on Jaden, and so to watch him start to develop his own agency and sense of morality was incredible. Jaden himself is a frightening antagonist. Frightening in how realistic it felt with his abuse of a power dynamic and watching him lose himself to his obsessions of knowledge and self discovery. I truly hated him and in many ways it was frustrating yet heartbreaking to watch Kuro feel so helpless against him while also holding such a strong sense of duty and obligation towards him, leading him to protect him even while vehemently condoning his actions. Kuro and Caroline’s story is a controversial one as their relationship is essentially built on fear, mistrust and violent intent. But what a beautiful slow burn it was. It was in many ways heartbreaking especially knowing that the characters are very much still hiding things and telling mistruths. . Kenneth is an interesting but potentially underdeveloped character, along with his friends Jacqueline and Eric. Kenneth was an opportunity to explore chronic depression and the consequences of it, but I still felt I didn’t really know his personality outside of his depression and his feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. It made me feel a little less invested in his relationships with his friend and with Jacqueline. Jacqueline suffered the same fate in which I felt I didn’t really know her personality outside of her dealing with her grief of the lost closeness with Kenneth. I’m hoping her involvement in solving the mysteries in the novel will help develop her character. . While it kept being said that Kenneth and Eric had been best friends it didn’t really come across in their interactions past and present. Eric was probably the most interesting of the three, even though he was written as the levelheaded realistic friend. Hints of his deeper feelings were shown through his dialogue and facial expressions which made him mysterious.
Story:
This story had a little bit of everything and I loved it. Mystery, crime thriller, fantasy and romance. Some may have felt it was slow paced but I personally felt it made the story feel more realistic and immersive. The aspect I didn’t like so much was the storylines involving Kenneth and his photojournalism. It felt a little corny in some aspects with the writers and the journalists trying to get their ‘big scoop’.
Prose:
Stunning. This is a truly talented author. There were one or two typos and a couple of scenes where the wrong character was reacting or speaking, or looking up when they should have been looking down. This did not detract from the beautiful flow of language and poetic vocabulary. The dialogue was believable aside from the cheesy journalists. Caroline and Kuro in particular had some achingly beautiful interactions.
Review Summary:
This story follows two demons, Jaden and Kuro, as they navigate the human world. They are kitsune, fox demons who can shapeshift to appear as humans. As kitsune they can only survive by ‘feeding’ on the souls and emotions of humans… with a twist. They can only feed on the negative such as fear, anxiety and sadness. We follow our characters as they try to evade discovery of their true form following a widely publicised incident, while also trying to learn more about their kitsune abilities and their ancestry. All the while Kuro and Jaden learn more about each other and their seemingly unbreakable bond, and how this has influenced their interactions with others. Simultaneously we follow Kenneth, a human involved in their near-discovery, who becomes determined to find the pair and solve the mysterious incidences occurring since their arrival. I would definitely advise looking up the content warnings for this novel.
Positives are that this novel has a truly engaging plot, mixing fantasy with romance and thriller mystery. I finished this story within two days, I was so enthralled. The book also deals with some really complex emotional and psychological phenomena such as trauma bonding, depression and grief. This added some real depth to the story. I adored the slow burn pacing as it allowed me to feel so much more invested. The romances depicted in the novel are pretty controversial, but I still really enjoyed them.
Negatives were mostly related to the Kenneth POV, which I felt needed a little more development to match the quality of Kuro’s. There were some occasional inconsistencies with the lore and prose.
4 stars. Dark, controversial but so beautifully written. With a couple of issues ironed out this could have been a perfect 5 stars for me.
FULL REVIEW BELOW - SPOILERS HIDDEN FOR DESKTOP USERS ONLY. APP USERS BE AWARE.
World-building:
The novel is based in the United States, in a forested rural area where Kuro feels most comfortable to hide in his Kitsune form and avoid excessive mingling with humans. The vast, expansive and often isolating environment was very well written with the underlying fear and anxiety of being in the middle of nowhere, and nowhere near any form of aid, being captured well. The lore and the history of the kitsune is largely a mystery even to the two kitsune themselves which added to the fear of the unknown. Watching Kuro and Jaden wield the powers they do know about was fascinating, and even being such a complex and unquantifiable ability as to search through souls the writing made it feel truly palpable. Later on as we start to pick up on more potential knowledge of the kitsune it lends itself beautifully to the characters own development. .
Characterisation:
This book didn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the human mind, with almost all of the relationships explored in the novel being toxic in some way.
Kuro is a fascinating main character. His emotionally abusive kinship founded on trauma bonding with Jaden has left him with no true sense of self, whether that be worth or belief. He has always felt he is totally reliant on Jaden, and so to watch him start to develop his own agency and sense of morality was incredible. Jaden himself is a frightening antagonist. Frightening in how realistic it felt with his abuse of a power dynamic and watching him lose himself to his obsessions of knowledge and self discovery. I truly hated him and in many ways it was frustrating yet heartbreaking to watch Kuro feel so helpless against him while also holding such a strong sense of duty and obligation towards him, leading him to protect him even while vehemently condoning his actions. Kuro and Caroline’s story is a controversial one as their relationship is essentially built on fear, mistrust and violent intent. But what a beautiful slow burn it was. It was in many ways heartbreaking especially knowing that the characters are very much still hiding things and telling mistruths. . Kenneth is an interesting but potentially underdeveloped character, along with his friends Jacqueline and Eric. Kenneth was an opportunity to explore chronic depression and the consequences of it, but I still felt I didn’t really know his personality outside of his depression and his feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. It made me feel a little less invested in his relationships with his friend and with Jacqueline. Jacqueline suffered the same fate in which I felt I didn’t really know her personality outside of her dealing with her grief of the lost closeness with Kenneth. I’m hoping her involvement in solving the mysteries in the novel will help develop her character. . While it kept being said that Kenneth and Eric had been best friends it didn’t really come across in their interactions past and present. Eric was probably the most interesting of the three, even though he was written as the levelheaded realistic friend. Hints of his deeper feelings were shown through his dialogue and facial expressions which made him mysterious.
Story:
This story had a little bit of everything and I loved it. Mystery, crime thriller, fantasy and romance. Some may have felt it was slow paced but I personally felt it made the story feel more realistic and immersive. The aspect I didn’t like so much was the storylines involving Kenneth and his photojournalism. It felt a little corny in some aspects with the writers and the journalists trying to get their ‘big scoop’.
Prose:
Stunning. This is a truly talented author. There were one or two typos and a couple of scenes where the wrong character was reacting or speaking, or looking up when they should have been looking down. This did not detract from the beautiful flow of language and poetic vocabulary. The dialogue was believable aside from the cheesy journalists. Caroline and Kuro in particular had some achingly beautiful interactions.
February 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ARC REVIEW
In a nutshell: kitsunes, character driven, slightly spooky, intriguing.
If you like your reads to be cosy BUT also slightly unsettling and spooky, I recommend this with my whole heart.
I was sucked into this book completely from the first page. The story is rich, captivating and intricately wound.
Each of the four POVs are tied together so well that I never felt the usual exhaustion of getting really into a storyline to be immediately thrown out at the next chapter. I was equally excited for each perspective, and loved how immediately I connected with the characters.
Kuro, arguably our main character, is written exactly how a wild animal-turned-human would be: slightly childlike, curious and a wee bit feral. Jaden, our antagonist, is a truly terrifying force to read about (TW for brutal murders thanks to him!) Their brotherhood was really intriguing and written incredible well, you both sympathise with and want to shake Kuro a lot of the time.
Our secondary characters, Caroline, Kenneth & Jaqueline were equally as interesting to read about and I can’t wait to have more of them in the next book!
My thoughts would stray back to the book throughout the day, making me feel like I was living between the pages even when I wasn’t reading.
I will definitely be picking up the next one.
Some of my favourite quotes.
💬 He resigned himself to wait patiently to pass out from blood loss and then, with any luck, the indifferent embrace of death would follow.
💬 Oh, he had thought, sickened by the confirmation of his own worthlessness and the sense of a privilege he didn’t deserve and hadn’t earned. That makes more sense.
💬 She was feeling the simplistic happiness of a day ending, the quiet comfort that comes with routine, of having a home to care for, a place to love.
| eARC received via Netgalley |
In a nutshell: kitsunes, character driven, slightly spooky, intriguing.
If you like your reads to be cosy BUT also slightly unsettling and spooky, I recommend this with my whole heart.
I was sucked into this book completely from the first page. The story is rich, captivating and intricately wound.
Each of the four POVs are tied together so well that I never felt the usual exhaustion of getting really into a storyline to be immediately thrown out at the next chapter. I was equally excited for each perspective, and loved how immediately I connected with the characters.
Kuro, arguably our main character, is written exactly how a wild animal-turned-human would be: slightly childlike, curious and a wee bit feral. Jaden, our antagonist, is a truly terrifying force to read about (TW for brutal murders thanks to him!) Their brotherhood was really intriguing and written incredible well, you both sympathise with and want to shake Kuro a lot of the time.
Our secondary characters, Caroline, Kenneth & Jaqueline were equally as interesting to read about and I can’t wait to have more of them in the next book!
My thoughts would stray back to the book throughout the day, making me feel like I was living between the pages even when I wasn’t reading.
I will definitely be picking up the next one.
Some of my favourite quotes.
💬 He resigned himself to wait patiently to pass out from blood loss and then, with any luck, the indifferent embrace of death would follow.
💬 Oh, he had thought, sickened by the confirmation of his own worthlessness and the sense of a privilege he didn’t deserve and hadn’t earned. That makes more sense.
💬 She was feeling the simplistic happiness of a day ending, the quiet comfort that comes with routine, of having a home to care for, a place to love.
| eARC received via Netgalley |
December 9, 2024
Ultimately, I enjoyed A Black and Solemn Silence. The shape-shifting kitsune Kuro was a really interesting character and I enjoyed the various points of view. However, I think there may have been a lot of information crammed into this first installment in the Color by Numbers series, as the pacing fell off for me about 1/3 of the way through and didn't come back around until the last third of the story. I found the pacing distracting, which caused me to lose interest and put the story down in favor of other reads quite a few times over the course of months before finishing. 3 stars because of my struggles focusing on the story due to pacing, but I would recommend. I really like Kuro and hope to see more of his journey in the future. Thank you to Net Galley and the author Danielle Thompson for an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2024
The writing was pretty good, and the story flowed nicely. So, over all, this was a solid read. The story constantly leaves you with this curious feeling of wanting to know more about these characters. Hence, the story is easy to read and get through.
However, there were a few aspects in which the book was lacking, in my opinion. First of all, I didn't really feel connected to the characters. I felt like I didn't quite know enough about the characters to form an opinion on whether or not I liked them. So while the absence of information about the characters definitely leaves you wondering, it was also a hindrance at times. Second of all, the storyline in itself wasn't exciting enough for me. It didn't really build up to a climax, and I wasn't invested in the events that were going on.
However, there were a few aspects in which the book was lacking, in my opinion. First of all, I didn't really feel connected to the characters. I felt like I didn't quite know enough about the characters to form an opinion on whether or not I liked them. So while the absence of information about the characters definitely leaves you wondering, it was also a hindrance at times. Second of all, the storyline in itself wasn't exciting enough for me. It didn't really build up to a climax, and I wasn't invested in the events that were going on.
February 26, 2024
What an interesting read :)
Not my usual reading preference but... wow.
The prose dude. It's captivating. The plot was great. A bit complex, but it's easy to follow. Goes to show that Danielle Thompson is a good writer. I admit I got attached to the characters, especially Kuro. I liked his overall characterization, especially his ways of dealing with his internal struggles throughout the story. I'm hoping that in the next book though, we get to know more of his background story as it'll surely help the story's development further.
Thank you Danielle Thompson, Netgalley, and IBPA for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC for A Black and Solemn Silence :D
Not my usual reading preference but... wow.
The prose dude. It's captivating. The plot was great. A bit complex, but it's easy to follow. Goes to show that Danielle Thompson is a good writer. I admit I got attached to the characters, especially Kuro. I liked his overall characterization, especially his ways of dealing with his internal struggles throughout the story. I'm hoping that in the next book though, we get to know more of his background story as it'll surely help the story's development further.
Thank you Danielle Thompson, Netgalley, and IBPA for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC for A Black and Solemn Silence :D
February 9, 2024
A black and Solemn Silence is an extremely well-written story that is both complex but easy to follow along and enjoy. I loved the depth of the story and its characters. It has the perfect amount of fantasy and is not too heavy on romance. The only thing I didn’t like was the cliffhanger! I can’t wait for book 2!
February 12, 2024
4.5 Stars
This was such a rich, darkly seductive story and I’m excited for the follow up - especially after that cliffhanger!
I loved the use of folklore and the really interesting relationship dynamics at play.
No spoilers, but A Dark and Solemn Silence follows Kuro and Jaden, two Kitsune who live in the forests not too far from the city. With a string of grisly murders and police investigations, Kuro is injured and has to rely on help from an unlikely place.
**Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for proving me with an ARC in exchange for my review**
This was such a rich, darkly seductive story and I’m excited for the follow up - especially after that cliffhanger!
I loved the use of folklore and the really interesting relationship dynamics at play.
No spoilers, but A Dark and Solemn Silence follows Kuro and Jaden, two Kitsune who live in the forests not too far from the city. With a string of grisly murders and police investigations, Kuro is injured and has to rely on help from an unlikely place.
**Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for proving me with an ARC in exchange for my review**
November 20, 2024
When two young men seek out a photographer who captured their true form they discover that humans are more fascinating than previously thought. Paranormal Young Adult. Demons and soul ties, mental illness, friendship, grief, self exploration and belonging. Excellent writing with beautiful descriptions of emotions, desires and motivations. An intense start that never let up, the plot spooled out organically like a film. There were a couple POVs yet I didn’t mind, every character created an immediate connection and had a lasting impact. A good parallel to this is Maggie Stiefvater’s,
Shiver
. In that the writing is atmospheric and introspective, there is a naive broody hero, a psycho on the loose, and a small community on the brink of panic. Only here the lore is optimized for a new type of painful, dark and forbidden love. I also like that it is the women who are more steadfast and courageous than the men.
*It was a pleasure to read the ARC for, A Black and Solemn Silence. Thank you D. Thompson and IBPA. My opinions are my own.
*It was a pleasure to read the ARC for, A Black and Solemn Silence. Thank you D. Thompson and IBPA. My opinions are my own.
February 21, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Danielle Thompson, Independent Book Publishers Association for this ARC Copy!
This was a book that I was immediately drawn to. The premise was so interesting and I was hooked from the beginning.
The story follows two MMCs who are shifters and they have grown up separate from the world, but as the begin to immerse themselves into the human world. The path that each of them take are very diffident but they will forever remain tied to each other, whether they want to be or not.
This book had some dark and twisty parts and I could not stop reading, and I can not wait for the second book in the series.
This was a book that I was immediately drawn to. The premise was so interesting and I was hooked from the beginning.
The story follows two MMCs who are shifters and they have grown up separate from the world, but as the begin to immerse themselves into the human world. The path that each of them take are very diffident but they will forever remain tied to each other, whether they want to be or not.
This book had some dark and twisty parts and I could not stop reading, and I can not wait for the second book in the series.
May 8, 2024
A Black and Solemn Silence is the 1st book in the Color by Numbers series by Danielle Thompson. It is a slow-burn, paranormal, enemies-to-lovers urban fantasy romance.
Kuro and Jaden are demon-foxes, two shape-shifting kitsune, who live alone in the solitude of the mountains. When a figure from Kuro’s past snaps a photo of him in his demon form, the kitsune are forced to follow him to civilization to prevent the publication. When Jaden and Kuro part ways, Kuro finds himself in trouble as the police secretary Caroline Lahey shoots and captures him. He could escape by killing her, but cannot stomach the idea of the bloodshed. As a result Kuro finds he is now forced to rely on Caroline’s soul for nutrition and survival, they are forced to spend more time together and a deeper bond starts to form between them. Meanwhile Jaden has dark dreams for their future and he tries to pull Kuro with him into the world of violence. Balancing between two different worlds, Kuro is trapped by his own lies. But when his balancing act fails – is he prepared to do anything to protect the woman he’s fallen in love with?
The writing style of the author is interesting – fluent and descriptive. I especially liked how different emotions and settings (would have liked to have more of these) were described. The story flowed well and the plot felt organic. The book is easy to read in general, but I wasn’t really pulled into the story and therefore felt more like an observer throughout the whole book. The plot is complex enough to catch interest and keep you reading, but it doesn’t offer any grand surprises. The story builds nicely and it has a good amount of fantasy (the kitsune) and is not too heavy on romance. I love the idea of folklore being used, but would have liked to see it more interwoven. The book ends on a cliff-hanger, but plainly, you can see it coming from a mile away and it isn’t really a surprise – still it makes you wonder, how the story goes on from there. You can read the story from different perspectives that are tied together in a complex story. As for the main characters, I like the way Kuro is written – he really fits the vibe of a solitary wild animal suddenly thrown into civilization – a bit feral and slightly naive and vulnerable. Jaden on the other hand is terrifying and brutal – yet he was fascinating in his own way as you can never really predict his next move. He is also somewhat unsettling and spooky. Their relationship and the bond between them is interesting and pictured well (reminds me a bit of the Vampire Diaries). Both of them are believable, but I felt a bit disconnected from the characters. I think I needed more insight and information to form an opinion and really get attached to them. There were no big revelations about the kitsune’s origins and I felt that in the end I was left with too many unanswered questions. Which brings me to my main issue with this book – you finish the book knowing just as little as you did in the beginning. That being said, I did like the overall idea of the kitsune and I hope to get more of their background story in the next book.
All in all, it is an imaginative and ambitious debut that combines elements of mystery, romance, and magical realism into a unique perspective. The book explores the themes of identity, personal growth, acceptance and loyalty in a world where the lines between good and evil are blurred. Overall, I'm excited to see what comes in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Kuro and Jaden are demon-foxes, two shape-shifting kitsune, who live alone in the solitude of the mountains. When a figure from Kuro’s past snaps a photo of him in his demon form, the kitsune are forced to follow him to civilization to prevent the publication. When Jaden and Kuro part ways, Kuro finds himself in trouble as the police secretary Caroline Lahey shoots and captures him. He could escape by killing her, but cannot stomach the idea of the bloodshed. As a result Kuro finds he is now forced to rely on Caroline’s soul for nutrition and survival, they are forced to spend more time together and a deeper bond starts to form between them. Meanwhile Jaden has dark dreams for their future and he tries to pull Kuro with him into the world of violence. Balancing between two different worlds, Kuro is trapped by his own lies. But when his balancing act fails – is he prepared to do anything to protect the woman he’s fallen in love with?
The writing style of the author is interesting – fluent and descriptive. I especially liked how different emotions and settings (would have liked to have more of these) were described. The story flowed well and the plot felt organic. The book is easy to read in general, but I wasn’t really pulled into the story and therefore felt more like an observer throughout the whole book. The plot is complex enough to catch interest and keep you reading, but it doesn’t offer any grand surprises. The story builds nicely and it has a good amount of fantasy (the kitsune) and is not too heavy on romance. I love the idea of folklore being used, but would have liked to see it more interwoven. The book ends on a cliff-hanger, but plainly, you can see it coming from a mile away and it isn’t really a surprise – still it makes you wonder, how the story goes on from there. You can read the story from different perspectives that are tied together in a complex story. As for the main characters, I like the way Kuro is written – he really fits the vibe of a solitary wild animal suddenly thrown into civilization – a bit feral and slightly naive and vulnerable. Jaden on the other hand is terrifying and brutal – yet he was fascinating in his own way as you can never really predict his next move. He is also somewhat unsettling and spooky. Their relationship and the bond between them is interesting and pictured well (reminds me a bit of the Vampire Diaries). Both of them are believable, but I felt a bit disconnected from the characters. I think I needed more insight and information to form an opinion and really get attached to them. There were no big revelations about the kitsune’s origins and I felt that in the end I was left with too many unanswered questions. Which brings me to my main issue with this book – you finish the book knowing just as little as you did in the beginning. That being said, I did like the overall idea of the kitsune and I hope to get more of their background story in the next book.
All in all, it is an imaginative and ambitious debut that combines elements of mystery, romance, and magical realism into a unique perspective. The book explores the themes of identity, personal growth, acceptance and loyalty in a world where the lines between good and evil are blurred. Overall, I'm excited to see what comes in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2024
A Black and Solemn Silence is Danielle Thompson's debut novel and the first novel in the Color By Numbers series. I would describe it to be a delightful mix of cozy fantasy, romantasy and perhaps fantasy crime.
Kuro has messed up: A human managed to take a picture of him. Kuro is a shape-shifting kitsune, or a fox demon, who feeds on the emotions that human souls produce. He's been living a quiet life in a forest with Jaden, another kitsune that he considers his brother. But if that photograph gets out, their quiet life will be over. Within his haste, Kuro accidentally trespasses on a young woman's property. Soon the photograph becomes least of Kuro's problems. There's something peculiar about the woman's soul, and soon Kuro finds himself trapped in a new, frightening situation, and he'll be forced to make a change: one way or the other.
OVERVIEW
This story was beautiful. I loved to watch Kuro grow and adapt and try to find a balance between being a fox and being a human. I think, above all, this was a story about growth and learning acceptance.
PLOT
The plot was quite generic and didn't offer a ton of surprises, but that actually worked quite well for the story. There was more space for the author to focus on growing the characters and the relationships between them (AKA the important stuff). There were some action scenes as well, though, and I honestly had NO IDEA what was going to happen next, which kept me turning the pages all day. (figuratively, since I read an ebook.)
CHARACTERS
I loved Kuro. He was so sweet and sort of vulnerable throughout the book. I felt like he had to suffer a lot in this book, so I hope we'll get to see him be happy in the next ones. The most fascinating character I thought was Jaden: I never fully knew what he was up to, but in the end, all his decisions made a certain amount of sense. And the relationship between Kuro and Jaden? GOLD.
FLAWS?
There really wasn't much to improve here. At times some small style things bothered me (I felt like there was a bit too much ellips used, etc.) Also, I fell IN LOVE with the way the author described the settings. (There was this one scene where she described a vegetable garden... I felt immersed). Adored to read, and I definitely would have liked more setting descriptions, because I felt like there weren't quite enough.
BEST?
I really adored the descriptions in this book. Whether it was emotions or settings or events, it was wonderful. (And of course, the cover is one of the prettiest I've seen in a while.)
All together I would say that this was a great novel, especially for a debut. I predict a very bright future for the Color by Numbers series.
Kuro has messed up: A human managed to take a picture of him. Kuro is a shape-shifting kitsune, or a fox demon, who feeds on the emotions that human souls produce. He's been living a quiet life in a forest with Jaden, another kitsune that he considers his brother. But if that photograph gets out, their quiet life will be over. Within his haste, Kuro accidentally trespasses on a young woman's property. Soon the photograph becomes least of Kuro's problems. There's something peculiar about the woman's soul, and soon Kuro finds himself trapped in a new, frightening situation, and he'll be forced to make a change: one way or the other.
OVERVIEW
This story was beautiful. I loved to watch Kuro grow and adapt and try to find a balance between being a fox and being a human. I think, above all, this was a story about growth and learning acceptance.
PLOT
The plot was quite generic and didn't offer a ton of surprises, but that actually worked quite well for the story. There was more space for the author to focus on growing the characters and the relationships between them (AKA the important stuff). There were some action scenes as well, though, and I honestly had NO IDEA what was going to happen next, which kept me turning the pages all day. (figuratively, since I read an ebook.)
CHARACTERS
I loved Kuro. He was so sweet and sort of vulnerable throughout the book. I felt like he had to suffer a lot in this book, so I hope we'll get to see him be happy in the next ones. The most fascinating character I thought was Jaden: I never fully knew what he was up to, but in the end, all his decisions made a certain amount of sense. And the relationship between Kuro and Jaden? GOLD.
FLAWS?
There really wasn't much to improve here. At times some small style things bothered me (I felt like there was a bit too much ellips used, etc.) Also, I fell IN LOVE with the way the author described the settings. (There was this one scene where she described a vegetable garden... I felt immersed). Adored to read, and I definitely would have liked more setting descriptions, because I felt like there weren't quite enough.
BEST?
I really adored the descriptions in this book. Whether it was emotions or settings or events, it was wonderful. (And of course, the cover is one of the prettiest I've seen in a while.)
All together I would say that this was a great novel, especially for a debut. I predict a very bright future for the Color by Numbers series.
March 14, 2024
[Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.]
3.5⭐ rounded up! Overall pretty enjoyable and definitely well-written from a paragraph-by-paragraph standpoint, but I had some issues with the higher level character development and pacing/plot.
I'll start by saying, I know that this author's writing style will not be for everyone. While I always appreciate when the style feels unique and I personally am a fan of it in this book, I'm sure some would find it a bit dense or overly detailed. I do feel the prose, while beautiful in places, got a little TOO repetitive and lingered on things too long in some areas – but overall I think it's mostly a stylistic choice and will come down to reader preference.
What I enjoyed: I absolutely loved that this was a paranormal romance that focused in on kitsune ("demon" foxes from Japanese folklore). I can't say I've read a book yet that incorporated kitsune so this felt new and intriguing. I also generally enjoyed Kuro and Caroline's characters and relationship because they each went through some growth and had much deeper development and connection, unlike the other characters. They were really the best part of this book to me. Like I mentioned above, I also appreciated the unique writing style and felt the book was well-written from page-to-page.
What didn't work for me: I feel like the Kuro-Jaden relationship could've been executed better, like a Stefan-Damon Salvatore type thing (Vampire Diaries) but less cheesy. Unfortunately, Jaden was flat and didn't have any vulnerable moments. My main issue overall, though, was that not enough happened and the reader/characters leave the book knowing almost as little as they started it with. Now, I'm all for books having smaller scopes if it means the author really gives depth to everything in a way that moves you, but that didn't happen here for me other than with Kuro and Caroline. Instead, it felt like the pace and plot were drawn out with not enough reward. One thing that I think made this worse was the hopping around of POVs – In a book that's relatively short, trying to address so many POVs is bound to leave characters underdeveloped and make the plot a little convoluted and spotty.
Overall, I'm excited to see what this author does next, although I'm torn on whether I'll continue this particular series. While it did end on a cliffhanger, I feel like not enough happened to be invested in what comes next. I do think this book is worth reading and deciding for yourself, though, if you enjoy slow burn romance, Japanese folklore, and a more detailed writing style.
3.5⭐ rounded up! Overall pretty enjoyable and definitely well-written from a paragraph-by-paragraph standpoint, but I had some issues with the higher level character development and pacing/plot.
I'll start by saying, I know that this author's writing style will not be for everyone. While I always appreciate when the style feels unique and I personally am a fan of it in this book, I'm sure some would find it a bit dense or overly detailed. I do feel the prose, while beautiful in places, got a little TOO repetitive and lingered on things too long in some areas – but overall I think it's mostly a stylistic choice and will come down to reader preference.
What I enjoyed: I absolutely loved that this was a paranormal romance that focused in on kitsune ("demon" foxes from Japanese folklore). I can't say I've read a book yet that incorporated kitsune so this felt new and intriguing. I also generally enjoyed Kuro and Caroline's characters and relationship because they each went through some growth and had much deeper development and connection, unlike the other characters. They were really the best part of this book to me. Like I mentioned above, I also appreciated the unique writing style and felt the book was well-written from page-to-page.
What didn't work for me: I feel like the Kuro-Jaden relationship could've been executed better, like a Stefan-Damon Salvatore type thing (Vampire Diaries) but less cheesy. Unfortunately, Jaden was flat and didn't have any vulnerable moments. My main issue overall, though, was that not enough happened and the reader/characters leave the book knowing almost as little as they started it with. Now, I'm all for books having smaller scopes if it means the author really gives depth to everything in a way that moves you, but that didn't happen here for me other than with Kuro and Caroline. Instead, it felt like the pace and plot were drawn out with not enough reward. One thing that I think made this worse was the hopping around of POVs – In a book that's relatively short, trying to address so many POVs is bound to leave characters underdeveloped and make the plot a little convoluted and spotty.
Overall, I'm excited to see what this author does next, although I'm torn on whether I'll continue this particular series. While it did end on a cliffhanger, I feel like not enough happened to be invested in what comes next. I do think this book is worth reading and deciding for yourself, though, if you enjoy slow burn romance, Japanese folklore, and a more detailed writing style.
March 18, 2024
final rating: 3.25/5☆
thank you to netgalley and the author Danielle Thompson for the e-arc!
i'm not very sure how i felt about this. maybe because it's just the first book in a series and more will be discovered later on, but i felt it was a little out of place to see two kitsune of japanese mythology in such a western environment. and it could have been a little less odd if there was a community of them, but having just two (so far) made me a little out of sorts. however, i applaud Danielle Thompson for her wonderful use of povs to show very different sides of the story — we have our slightly sheltered protagonist Kuro, his 'bestie' Jaden and that of our human side from Kenneth, Jacqueline and Eric.
(spoilers ahead)
i have absolutely no problem with most of our characters. however, it felt like our main cast of Kuro, Jaden and Caroline should have been a little older than just in their early twenties (that's basically a baby kitsune!). the way they're written is very mature, they make big decisions and have a lot of big feelings that i can't relate to at this age. yet, with Kenneth and co in the same age bracket, i can see where they're coming from most of the time, a little dumb but they act just a little self important enough and actually know what they're doing sometimes. but the others? adulting kitsune problems, big issues.
and Jaden just didn't really work as a character for me. i understand trying to paint him as a morally grey character who, while has violent tendencies, truly cares for his pseudo brother Kuro (ie the hot chocolate incident). but throughout the book, all i see is a very hotblooded murderer with lots of bloodlust who thrives with that, and doesn't care how low he stoops to satisfy himself, ESPECIALLY with how he's stalking Jacqueline for her soul. brave girl for dealing with that gracefully. and the ending of book 1??? a villain works. i can like a villain. but Jaden is such a (excuse me) colour by numbers villain that i didn't like him.
still, very intrigued to see how the story unfolds in the sequel.
thank you to netgalley and the author Danielle Thompson for the e-arc!
i'm not very sure how i felt about this. maybe because it's just the first book in a series and more will be discovered later on, but i felt it was a little out of place to see two kitsune of japanese mythology in such a western environment. and it could have been a little less odd if there was a community of them, but having just two (so far) made me a little out of sorts. however, i applaud Danielle Thompson for her wonderful use of povs to show very different sides of the story — we have our slightly sheltered protagonist Kuro, his 'bestie' Jaden and that of our human side from Kenneth, Jacqueline and Eric.
(spoilers ahead)
i have absolutely no problem with most of our characters. however, it felt like our main cast of Kuro, Jaden and Caroline should have been a little older than just in their early twenties (that's basically a baby kitsune!). the way they're written is very mature, they make big decisions and have a lot of big feelings that i can't relate to at this age. yet, with Kenneth and co in the same age bracket, i can see where they're coming from most of the time, a little dumb but they act just a little self important enough and actually know what they're doing sometimes. but the others? adulting kitsune problems, big issues.
and Jaden just didn't really work as a character for me. i understand trying to paint him as a morally grey character who, while has violent tendencies, truly cares for his pseudo brother Kuro (ie the hot chocolate incident). but throughout the book, all i see is a very hotblooded murderer with lots of bloodlust who thrives with that, and doesn't care how low he stoops to satisfy himself, ESPECIALLY with how he's stalking Jacqueline for her soul. brave girl for dealing with that gracefully. and the ending of book 1??? a villain works. i can like a villain. but Jaden is such a (excuse me) colour by numbers villain that i didn't like him.
still, very intrigued to see how the story unfolds in the sequel.
May 4, 2024
"Black and Solemn Silence" by Danielle Thompson is an ambitious novel that combines elements of romance, mystery, and magical realism into a unique narrative. The story revolves around Kuro, a mystical fox who is caught on camera, leading to a conflict among the foxes with differing ideologies about how to handle the exposure. At the same time, Kuro finds himself falling for a woman who initially tries to kill him, adding a touch of romance to the mix.
I do want to note that there are some pacing issues, with abrupt transitions between subplots that can make the narrative feel a bit disjointed. This might leave some readers wishing for more seamless connections between the different elements of the story. Additionally, the portrayal of certain characters, like Jaden, can be a bit one-dimensional, lacking the depth needed to fully engage the reader.
The romance between Kuro and the woman who tried to kill him has an intriguing dynamic. While their relationship starts on a rocky note, the gradual shift from hostility to understanding is compelling. Thompson captures the nuances of their evolving relationship, showing how even seemingly incompatible people can find common ground.
The novel ends on a cliffhanger, which might be frustrating for those who prefer more closure, but it also opens the door to future installments and further exploration of the intriguing world Thompson has created.
Overall, "Black and Solemn Silence" is an imaginative and ambitious novel with a lot of potential. While it has some pacing and characterization issues, it offers an interesting blend of genres and a thought-provoking exploration of identity and ideology. If you're a fan of stories with magical elements and complex relationships, this book could be worth a read.
I do want to note that there are some pacing issues, with abrupt transitions between subplots that can make the narrative feel a bit disjointed. This might leave some readers wishing for more seamless connections between the different elements of the story. Additionally, the portrayal of certain characters, like Jaden, can be a bit one-dimensional, lacking the depth needed to fully engage the reader.
The romance between Kuro and the woman who tried to kill him has an intriguing dynamic. While their relationship starts on a rocky note, the gradual shift from hostility to understanding is compelling. Thompson captures the nuances of their evolving relationship, showing how even seemingly incompatible people can find common ground.
The novel ends on a cliffhanger, which might be frustrating for those who prefer more closure, but it also opens the door to future installments and further exploration of the intriguing world Thompson has created.
Overall, "Black and Solemn Silence" is an imaginative and ambitious novel with a lot of potential. While it has some pacing and characterization issues, it offers an interesting blend of genres and a thought-provoking exploration of identity and ideology. If you're a fan of stories with magical elements and complex relationships, this book could be worth a read.
May 8, 2024
I received an ARC of this book through booksprout.
I absolutely adored this book. I've been searching for an animal based fantasy book for a while. I just so happen to LOVE kitsune and foxes. So this ticked those boxes perfectly.
The initial build up of the story had me binge reading through the night, I was hooked from the moment a farm girl had a gun and shot a demon fox.
I love the complexity of the characters, Jaden feels like what I've always read a kitsune to be, dark mischievous, bad. He spends the entirety of the story living up to my perceived notions.
But Kuro, was sweet and innocent, but guilty by association thanks to his bond with Jaden. He reminded me a little personality wise of a more sophisticated, yet demonically troubled Todd from the fox and the hound.
Throughout the book, it was a balance of the 2 spiritfoxes, as one became more detached and off the rails, drawn to the chaos of harming humans, the other became more stable and in control of himself, and finding himself drawn to a human for a better purpose. Caring. Feeling.
It was such a beautiful thing to see develop, the uncertainty, the confusion and doubts within a soul displayed, transforming to want, desire and trust.
I look forward to seeing what comes next for the characters.
The story was beautifully written, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series, hoping for book 2's release soon, I'm not sure if MY soul can take a long wait.
Plus.. that cliffhanger, Its going to eat me alive not knowing what's happening next.
Gonna recommend this one, it's got some mysterious, intriguing, fantasy, shifty serial killery, murdery, villainy, slow burn romancey stuff going on.
What more could a girl ask for?
5* solid shiftery stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I absolutely adored this book. I've been searching for an animal based fantasy book for a while. I just so happen to LOVE kitsune and foxes. So this ticked those boxes perfectly.
The initial build up of the story had me binge reading through the night, I was hooked from the moment a farm girl had a gun and shot a demon fox.
I love the complexity of the characters, Jaden feels like what I've always read a kitsune to be, dark mischievous, bad. He spends the entirety of the story living up to my perceived notions.
But Kuro, was sweet and innocent, but guilty by association thanks to his bond with Jaden. He reminded me a little personality wise of a more sophisticated, yet demonically troubled Todd from the fox and the hound.
Throughout the book, it was a balance of the 2 spiritfoxes, as one became more detached and off the rails, drawn to the chaos of harming humans, the other became more stable and in control of himself, and finding himself drawn to a human for a better purpose. Caring. Feeling.
It was such a beautiful thing to see develop, the uncertainty, the confusion and doubts within a soul displayed, transforming to want, desire and trust.
I look forward to seeing what comes next for the characters.
The story was beautifully written, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series, hoping for book 2's release soon, I'm not sure if MY soul can take a long wait.
Plus.. that cliffhanger, Its going to eat me alive not knowing what's happening next.
Gonna recommend this one, it's got some mysterious, intriguing, fantasy, shifty serial killery, murdery, villainy, slow burn romancey stuff going on.
What more could a girl ask for?
5* solid shiftery stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Danielle Thompson, and the publisher for my free e-arc of this book.
So quick plot summary. Japanese fox demons (kitsune) living in Appalachia. New concept, very novel, color me intrigued. Kitsune boy sees girl sitting on a roof, says hey. Girl sees boy who wasn't a boy a second ago. Girl shoots boy. Yep I'm in. Girl drags boy into shed to get answers. Boy decides to try and be bad a kill girl. Girl starts saying the Hail Mary prayer, prayer hurts boy, so boy kisses girl to shut her up. You've lost me a bit. Boy passes out. Next day girl feels guilty and wants to help boy.
Next we go into a whole other story about the super evil other kitsune featured in our story, who is "practically a brother" to our other kitsune boy, and the part Cherokee girl he quickly becomes obsessed with.
There are a couple other characters in our story, I'm sure they are vital to the plot in book two because they don't make too much sense in this book. I have rounded up to four stars, I'd give this book a 3.5 mainly because I'm not sure this story needs to be broken into two books, and also I feel like this is going into a Christian romance direction, and I'm not about that. And again, I hate books that in in cliffhangers, especially when it seems unnecessary. Will I read the second book? If it's free, yes. They wanted an honest review, and they're gonna get it. If you want a paranormal friends to maybe lovers mystery, this is your bag baby.
So quick plot summary. Japanese fox demons (kitsune) living in Appalachia. New concept, very novel, color me intrigued. Kitsune boy sees girl sitting on a roof, says hey. Girl sees boy who wasn't a boy a second ago. Girl shoots boy. Yep I'm in. Girl drags boy into shed to get answers. Boy decides to try and be bad a kill girl. Girl starts saying the Hail Mary prayer, prayer hurts boy, so boy kisses girl to shut her up. You've lost me a bit. Boy passes out. Next day girl feels guilty and wants to help boy.
Next we go into a whole other story about the super evil other kitsune featured in our story, who is "practically a brother" to our other kitsune boy, and the part Cherokee girl he quickly becomes obsessed with.
There are a couple other characters in our story, I'm sure they are vital to the plot in book two because they don't make too much sense in this book. I have rounded up to four stars, I'd give this book a 3.5 mainly because I'm not sure this story needs to be broken into two books, and also I feel like this is going into a Christian romance direction, and I'm not about that. And again, I hate books that in in cliffhangers, especially when it seems unnecessary. Will I read the second book? If it's free, yes. They wanted an honest review, and they're gonna get it. If you want a paranormal friends to maybe lovers mystery, this is your bag baby.
May 3, 2024
A Black and Solemn Silence by Danielle Thompson is a slowburn, paranormal, enemies-to-lovers romance and the first book in the adult urban fantasy Color by Numbers series. It includes adult themes and ends on a cliff-hanger.
Kuro is the grumpy, brooding book boyfriend you want to take into your arms and show him that he can be loved. He hangs around with an evil and dangerous fellow, Jaden, who is the only other kitsune he's known since his existence. Jaden is very conniving and manipulative and Kuro never really puts too much thought into his future beyond hanging out in nature, that is until one fateful day when a chain of events unfolds in which they are being hunted for murderer and Kuro’s very existence and survival hangs in the balance between his trouble seeking companion and a country girl whom Kuro develops an unhealthy (physically makes him sick) interest in.
I loved Kuro’s character development as he began to realize that there is more to life and companionship outside of the mountains. Jaden was portrayed exactly how you would expect a villain to be. I felt like there could have been more back story given for some of the other characters, but I have high hopes that will be revealed in the future books released for the Color By Numbers series. Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and it was left on a cliffhanger with a sneak peek into the next book at the end that has me anticipating the next release!
Kuro is the grumpy, brooding book boyfriend you want to take into your arms and show him that he can be loved. He hangs around with an evil and dangerous fellow, Jaden, who is the only other kitsune he's known since his existence. Jaden is very conniving and manipulative and Kuro never really puts too much thought into his future beyond hanging out in nature, that is until one fateful day when a chain of events unfolds in which they are being hunted for murderer and Kuro’s very existence and survival hangs in the balance between his trouble seeking companion and a country girl whom Kuro develops an unhealthy (physically makes him sick) interest in.
I loved Kuro’s character development as he began to realize that there is more to life and companionship outside of the mountains. Jaden was portrayed exactly how you would expect a villain to be. I felt like there could have been more back story given for some of the other characters, but I have high hopes that will be revealed in the future books released for the Color By Numbers series. Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and it was left on a cliffhanger with a sneak peek into the next book at the end that has me anticipating the next release!
January 9, 2024
I hate cliffhangers, but what can I do? Nothing.
First, let's talk about the cover. I love the Kitsune in there and the flowers. I think it shows how sweet Kuro is, and he really is. I don't think he's a coward. It's just that he is so kind that he can't bear to hurt those he cares about. Well, look at me straying far away from the cover, but anyway, the cover truly feels sweet.
This book was recommended to me as a fantasy romance, but I don't think it is. It doesn't have that big fantasy aspect to it. However, it has two Kitsunes, who are like day and night. So different.
The romance feels inexistent somehow, but I am not against it. I think what's happening in the book builds nicely.
Honestly, when I read Kitsune in the title, I expected something from the Japanese folklore. A trickster fox. But Kuro isn't a trickster. He is just a sweet soul or maybe, like how Caroline said: he is a baby of his kind. Maybe he didn't build his trickery enough. I mean you can be a trickster and a good person. It just comes down to how you trick other people.
While reading, I was waiting for the big reveal of Kuro's origins but it didn't come. I hope book 2 lays it down for us.
Thank you Booksirens for the free ARC.
First, let's talk about the cover. I love the Kitsune in there and the flowers. I think it shows how sweet Kuro is, and he really is. I don't think he's a coward. It's just that he is so kind that he can't bear to hurt those he cares about. Well, look at me straying far away from the cover, but anyway, the cover truly feels sweet.
This book was recommended to me as a fantasy romance, but I don't think it is. It doesn't have that big fantasy aspect to it. However, it has two Kitsunes, who are like day and night. So different.
The romance feels inexistent somehow, but I am not against it. I think what's happening in the book builds nicely.
Honestly, when I read Kitsune in the title, I expected something from the Japanese folklore. A trickster fox. But Kuro isn't a trickster. He is just a sweet soul or maybe, like how Caroline said: he is a baby of his kind. Maybe he didn't build his trickery enough. I mean you can be a trickster and a good person. It just comes down to how you trick other people.
While reading, I was waiting for the big reveal of Kuro's origins but it didn't come. I hope book 2 lays it down for us.
Thank you Booksirens for the free ARC.
April 16, 2024
Put simply, this book felt a bit like a bad execution of another book I read. The novel follows Kuro and Jaden, two kitsune (or fox shifters). Kuro has been caught on camera, and the story shows the foxes’ ideological difference (i.e. violent or not) as they try to track down the photographic proof of their existence, and Kuro also accidentally falls in love with a woman who tries to kill him when they first meet.
Frankly, this book felt all over the place. It couldn’t tell if it wanted to be a romance, mystery, magical realism, or a revenge story. In theory, it could be all four, but its bad pacing and abrupt transition between side plots left me feeling detached from the story and I didn’t really care about any of it. Further, and this is partially my fault, I had just come from reading The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo, which similarly tracks a fox shifter whose now-dead daughter was caught on film, and her journey of revenge as she tracks down the photographer. Whereas Choo’s novel manages to beautifully weave together historical fiction and magical realism, tenderly rendering emotions and keeping the reader interested, I found myself incredibly uninterested in the romantic pairing, and I hated Jaden. I am not sure if the author intended to portray him as a morally grey bad boy, but he truly just comes across as an irredeemable villain.
The novel ends on a cliffhanger, and I found that I didn’t care about it. I won’t be reading the sequels, and give this 2⭐
*Thank you again to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
Frankly, this book felt all over the place. It couldn’t tell if it wanted to be a romance, mystery, magical realism, or a revenge story. In theory, it could be all four, but its bad pacing and abrupt transition between side plots left me feeling detached from the story and I didn’t really care about any of it. Further, and this is partially my fault, I had just come from reading The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo, which similarly tracks a fox shifter whose now-dead daughter was caught on film, and her journey of revenge as she tracks down the photographer. Whereas Choo’s novel manages to beautifully weave together historical fiction and magical realism, tenderly rendering emotions and keeping the reader interested, I found myself incredibly uninterested in the romantic pairing, and I hated Jaden. I am not sure if the author intended to portray him as a morally grey bad boy, but he truly just comes across as an irredeemable villain.
The novel ends on a cliffhanger, and I found that I didn’t care about it. I won’t be reading the sequels, and give this 2⭐
*Thank you again to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
April 6, 2024
This was pretty interesting, but not amazing. I liked the kitsune mythology. I'm definitely into mythological creatures and foxes, so kitsunes are extremely fascinating.
I'm curious to see how Kuro and Jaden's relationship evolves. Kuro is fairly simple enjoying the beauty and the comfort of the forest, spending hours watching a spider weave its web. On the other hand, Jaden is restless and yearns for a busier lifestyle. Their relationship up until the events of this book is one where Kuro naively does his own thing and ignores the violent/sociopathic behavior of Jaden. I wish Jaden's character had been fleshed out a little more. Right now he just seems like a flat psychopath, so I hope he gets more nuance.
I thought Kuro and Caroline's relationship was interesting enough to where I want to know how they end up, but I felt like the romance side was very subtle, almost non-existent, for something advertised as an enemies-to-lovers romance.
There were several POVs, but I think they could have been utilized better. Other than Kuro and Caroline, it felt like everyone else was just underdeveloped. Maybe we get more in the upcoming books.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley.
I'm curious to see how Kuro and Jaden's relationship evolves. Kuro is fairly simple enjoying the beauty and the comfort of the forest, spending hours watching a spider weave its web. On the other hand, Jaden is restless and yearns for a busier lifestyle. Their relationship up until the events of this book is one where Kuro naively does his own thing and ignores the violent/sociopathic behavior of Jaden. I wish Jaden's character had been fleshed out a little more. Right now he just seems like a flat psychopath, so I hope he gets more nuance.
I thought Kuro and Caroline's relationship was interesting enough to where I want to know how they end up, but I felt like the romance side was very subtle, almost non-existent, for something advertised as an enemies-to-lovers romance.
There were several POVs, but I think they could have been utilized better. Other than Kuro and Caroline, it felt like everyone else was just underdeveloped. Maybe we get more in the upcoming books.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley.
January 24, 2024
This was such an interesting read! A little out of my comfort zone but I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Kuro is a very complex character, I hope book 2 reveals more about his past. He was a slow grower in terms of character progression but he finally got to where I was hoping he would toward the end.
The plot is interesting and complex but still a fairly easy read (not overly complicated). I did originally pick the book up thinking it was a romance but after reading I would say it is extremely slow burn and more of a soul-tie situation than straight romance/ enemies to lovers. It also has some murder mystery elements that were really interesting and kept me wanting more. The cliffhanger was written very well, I immediately wanted the second book so I could keep reading.
If you are looking for a heavy romance book I don't think this one is it. However, if you are OK with romance taking a backseat to mystery, murder, and kind of a tumultuous friendship this book will definitely peak your interest.
Thank You NetGalley for the ARC
The plot is interesting and complex but still a fairly easy read (not overly complicated). I did originally pick the book up thinking it was a romance but after reading I would say it is extremely slow burn and more of a soul-tie situation than straight romance/ enemies to lovers. It also has some murder mystery elements that were really interesting and kept me wanting more. The cliffhanger was written very well, I immediately wanted the second book so I could keep reading.
If you are looking for a heavy romance book I don't think this one is it. However, if you are OK with romance taking a backseat to mystery, murder, and kind of a tumultuous friendship this book will definitely peak your interest.
Thank You NetGalley for the ARC
January 30, 2024
Spoiler free! (4.5/5)
"A Black and Solemn Silence" by Danielle Thompson is a captivating exploration of the intersection between the mythical and the human, focusing on kitsune – shapeshifting foxes from Japanese folklore – as they intertwine with human lives in both romantic and treacherous ways. Thompson crafts a narrative that is as enchanting as it is haunting.
Initially, I approached this book with some apprehension, as the subject matter was outside my usual reading preferences. However, Thompson's storytelling prowess quickly dispelled any doubts, drawing me into a world where the line between human and kitsune intersects, creating a rich tapestry of interactions that are both heartwarming and chilling.
The only downside to this novel is the fact it ends on a huge CLIFFHANGER! I knew this going in but I was not expected to be so attached to the characters. Honestly I think this is a testament to Thompson's novel and her interesting storyline that has gotten me so deeply invested in the fate of Kuro and the company he keeps.
"A Black and Solemn Silence" by Danielle Thompson is a captivating exploration of the intersection between the mythical and the human, focusing on kitsune – shapeshifting foxes from Japanese folklore – as they intertwine with human lives in both romantic and treacherous ways. Thompson crafts a narrative that is as enchanting as it is haunting.
Initially, I approached this book with some apprehension, as the subject matter was outside my usual reading preferences. However, Thompson's storytelling prowess quickly dispelled any doubts, drawing me into a world where the line between human and kitsune intersects, creating a rich tapestry of interactions that are both heartwarming and chilling.
The only downside to this novel is the fact it ends on a huge CLIFFHANGER! I knew this going in but I was not expected to be so attached to the characters. Honestly I think this is a testament to Thompson's novel and her interesting storyline that has gotten me so deeply invested in the fate of Kuro and the company he keeps.
February 21, 2025
Black and Solemn Silence by Danielle Thompson is a debut novel that follows two kitsune, Kuro and Jaden, after one of them is caught on camera. The central conflict in the book arises as they disagree on how to deal with photographic evidence and find the journalists who seek to expose them. Kuro is wounded by a woman and her dog, whom he develops feelings for as she helps heal him.
Ultimately, this book wasn't for me. I struggled to connect with the characters and plot. Most of the conflict occurs between friends Kuro and Jaden; nothing comes to a head with a climax in the book. It ends on a good cliffhanger but is hard to enjoy when the highest tension point is in the last few pages.
I wish there had been more character development, a better plot structure, and more worldbuilding
and lore around the kitsune, though I imagine this is coming in the planned sequels. Danielle Thompson did write this book well, and the prose is beautiful. I would certainly consider reading her future projects.
Ultimately, this book wasn't for me. I struggled to connect with the characters and plot. Most of the conflict occurs between friends Kuro and Jaden; nothing comes to a head with a climax in the book. It ends on a good cliffhanger but is hard to enjoy when the highest tension point is in the last few pages.
I wish there had been more character development, a better plot structure, and more worldbuilding
and lore around the kitsune, though I imagine this is coming in the planned sequels. Danielle Thompson did write this book well, and the prose is beautiful. I would certainly consider reading her future projects.
April 3, 2024
I honestly did a double take about 5% into this book thinking, "what the heck have I picked up?!?!?!?" The story jumps right in with action, there is no time to prepare, adjust, get ready. Immediately the reader is sucked into a strange world, that is our world but not our world.
This story is about the Kitsunu, and one in particular. And for anyone unsure exactly what the kitsunu is - apart from understanding they are shapeshifters - this is from Japanese legend, and they are spirits; specifically evil. However, even not knowing the specifics of kitsunu you pick it up very early in the book, in fact by 15% you understand that this being is certainly NOT in any fashion human, is in fact innately not good (a bend towards evilness) in that they can "touch" the human soul and feed off fear, guilt, shame. Yet emotions like faith, love, mercy, ect will burn them. This I found slightly creepy and honestly unnerving as it lines up very much with Christian beliefs of demon activity.
I honestly have never read a book like this at all.....am I disappointed to have picked it up? Absolutely not. To be honest this is one of those books that you pick up, get shocked by, think maybe you don't want to read it while knowing you have to read it because you just have to know more, you just have to know the ending. The writing is beautiful. It is complex and simple at the same time; exploring complex themes of human emotions, what makes humans human and even the complexities of right and wrong and the fluid nature of the moral compass. Can a demon turn good? Can the goodness in a human soul reach out and touch and change the soul of a kitsunu?
Great read -
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and freely given review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is about the Kitsunu, and one in particular. And for anyone unsure exactly what the kitsunu is - apart from understanding they are shapeshifters - this is from Japanese legend, and they are spirits; specifically evil. However, even not knowing the specifics of kitsunu you pick it up very early in the book, in fact by 15% you understand that this being is certainly NOT in any fashion human, is in fact innately not good (a bend towards evilness) in that they can "touch" the human soul and feed off fear, guilt, shame. Yet emotions like faith, love, mercy, ect will burn them. This I found slightly creepy and honestly unnerving as it lines up very much with Christian beliefs of demon activity.
I honestly have never read a book like this at all.....am I disappointed to have picked it up? Absolutely not. To be honest this is one of those books that you pick up, get shocked by, think maybe you don't want to read it while knowing you have to read it because you just have to know more, you just have to know the ending. The writing is beautiful. It is complex and simple at the same time; exploring complex themes of human emotions, what makes humans human and even the complexities of right and wrong and the fluid nature of the moral compass. Can a demon turn good? Can the goodness in a human soul reach out and touch and change the soul of a kitsunu?
Great read -
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and freely given review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2024
This was such an interesting read! The premise was so intriguing and it didn’t disappoint. I loved the author’s writing style and how the story flowed and was easy to follow, even though the story itself had a lot to it.
The characters were the real stand out for me in this book. I loved following them and the author wrote in a way that always kept me wanting to read on to learn more about them. I feel like more background information could have been given about them, but that is also what kept me turning pages. Hopefully in the next book we will learn more and I’ll fall even more in love with the characters.
Read this if you like:
→ Shapeshifters
→ Descriptive, atmospheric writing style
→ Cozy fantasy & romantasy
This one definitely leaves you on a cliffhanger and needing book two right away.
The characters were the real stand out for me in this book. I loved following them and the author wrote in a way that always kept me wanting to read on to learn more about them. I feel like more background information could have been given about them, but that is also what kept me turning pages. Hopefully in the next book we will learn more and I’ll fall even more in love with the characters.
Read this if you like:
→ Shapeshifters
→ Descriptive, atmospheric writing style
→ Cozy fantasy & romantasy
This one definitely leaves you on a cliffhanger and needing book two right away.
February 21, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book! First of all I really liked Kuro as a character and his internal conflict through the whole book, I think it was difficult to see which side he would morally end up on and I really enjoyed that. I thought that the story moving through the perspective of not only Kuro but Kenneth and Jaqueline made things more interesting and gave us fresh knowledge on certain things, feel like some parts became slightly receptive, especially with the whole “this is what your soul feels like etc etc..” I don’t think we needed this explaining for every character but apart from that I enjoyed the plot, I like the string of crime that was sweeping throughout and how this tied in with each person
February 22, 2024
There’s no denying the author is a good writer and I liked the concept of the story. It was dark and gory, and had a tangled souls vibe.
My issue is the pacing of the story, it was kind of all over the place. The characters were also flighty. I was confused, because one minute the characters were being gentle to one another and the next hurting each other. I never knew where I was in terms of timeline.
The story is a paranormal enemies to lovers slowburn. I 100% agree that it is a slow burn. Maybe the romance will pick up in the next book? I believe this book has its audience, but I may not be it. I was left with many questions by the end and wished the author delved into the characters more.
April 22, 2024
3/5 ✨
The author is very talented with a good concept for this story.
It 100000% is a slow burn romance and if you’re into being tortured by slow burn this is a good choice and an easy read.
However the pacing was problematic, I never knew exactly where we were at in terms of timeline. I also feel like the story is missing the climax that it needs, there was a small ‘something’ happening but it wasn’t enough imo.
Other than Kuro and Caroline, I feel like the other POVs could have used some more character building, I also just didn’t feel like I couldn’t connect with most of the characters, like I didn’t know enough or got enough from them.
✨I was provided an ARC but the review is completely my own opinion✨
The author is very talented with a good concept for this story.
It 100000% is a slow burn romance and if you’re into being tortured by slow burn this is a good choice and an easy read.
However the pacing was problematic, I never knew exactly where we were at in terms of timeline. I also feel like the story is missing the climax that it needs, there was a small ‘something’ happening but it wasn’t enough imo.
Other than Kuro and Caroline, I feel like the other POVs could have used some more character building, I also just didn’t feel like I couldn’t connect with most of the characters, like I didn’t know enough or got enough from them.
✨I was provided an ARC but the review is completely my own opinion✨
April 25, 2024
Whew, let me just collect myself for a second. Well, if you're looking to read just one book in this series, you'd better find more time because you'll want to read them all!! The "ending" was very much not an ending but rather an intermission before the next book begins, and oh boy, does it leave you hanging!!
While I felt the whole book was slow moving, the story is absolutely fascinating! The characters are quite dynamic, and I find myself so eager to learn more about them with each chapter.
An enigmatic display of light vs. dark, good vs. evil, human vs. demon. A truly paranormal story that will be playing on your heart strings all the way to the last word of the last page!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I felt the whole book was slow moving, the story is absolutely fascinating! The characters are quite dynamic, and I find myself so eager to learn more about them with each chapter.
An enigmatic display of light vs. dark, good vs. evil, human vs. demon. A truly paranormal story that will be playing on your heart strings all the way to the last word of the last page!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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