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House of Crimson and Clover #2
Beyond Darkness: Shattered
Anasofiya Deschanel fled to Maine to escape her mistakes. She learned quickly, and violently, you cannot run from what’s inside you.
Following a series of unfortunate events, Ana finds herself drowning in the consequences of actions which left her heart cruelly divided between the St. Andrews brothers. Jon’s embrace of darkness soon turns to dangerous cruelty, while Finn’s kind heart offers a promise of love she does not feel she deserves. Between all three of them lies a secret with the potential to change everything.
When the truth comes crashing down, Ana is forced to face the same demons she once ran from. As she learns more about who she is, and the situation she’s created, these realizations drive her to a desperate decision that will change everyone’s lives, forever.
Following a series of unfortunate events, Ana finds herself drowning in the consequences of actions which left her heart cruelly divided between the St. Andrews brothers. Jon’s embrace of darkness soon turns to dangerous cruelty, while Finn’s kind heart offers a promise of love she does not feel she deserves. Between all three of them lies a secret with the potential to change everything.
When the truth comes crashing down, Ana is forced to face the same demons she once ran from. As she learns more about who she is, and the situation she’s created, these realizations drive her to a desperate decision that will change everyone’s lives, forever.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2014
71 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Sarah M. Cradit
99 books899 followersSarah is the USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over forty contemporary and epic fantasy stories, and the creator of the Kingdom of the White Sea and Saga of Crimson & Clover universes.
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 10, 2014
The novellas that Sarah Cradit has written to complement her novels are just what is needed to give her readers that extra bit of information/story and connection with her characters. I have fallen in love with all of her characters, but Finn is by far my favorite. And how could you not fall in love with a man like this:
"Ana snored softly against Finn's chest, snuggled under one of his arms while he held a book in front of his face with the other."
A sexy loving man - and he reads!!!!! Sounds like a dream man to me.
While the novellas definitely can stand on their own, they are an extension of the books. Learn more about Ana/Finn/Jon and even Aunt Colleen. The author does a magnificent job of bringing the characters to life. You will love with them, laugh with them, cry with them and even hate with them.
"Ana snored softly against Finn's chest, snuggled under one of his arms while he held a book in front of his face with the other."
A sexy loving man - and he reads!!!!! Sounds like a dream man to me.
While the novellas definitely can stand on their own, they are an extension of the books. Learn more about Ana/Finn/Jon and even Aunt Colleen. The author does a magnificent job of bringing the characters to life. You will love with them, laugh with them, cry with them and even hate with them.
February 10, 2014
Wonderful story! It gives us a glimpse into what really went down with Ana, Finn, and Jon, revealing true colors. The emotion in this novella is real and deep. I love this series.
July 6, 2023
This is a messy dark time and i love it. Jon can die 1,000 fiery deaths. Ana needs a Xanax and Fin is an Angel.
Book 3 me please
Book 3 me please
February 16, 2014
Beyond Darkness: Shattered ( Crimson and Clover 1.5) by Sarah M. Cradit is a February 2014 publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Anasofiya arrived in Maine with a great deal of baggage. Although she had been helped a lot by the locals in preparing her for the harsh Maine winter to come, it was still much more than the New Orleans native could have imagined. That wasn't all Ana had to worry about that winter. She was the target of an obsessed man. Ana the St. Andrews brothers had barely survived that winter. Now, with Finn home from the hospital the feelings he and Ana have for one another have grown into a full fledged love affair. Things are not all peaches and cream though. While Finn was recovering in the hospital, Ana and Finn's brother, Joe had a moment most likely brought on my extreme stress, but it happened non the less and although Ana is concerned Finn wouldn' t understand and she doesn't want him to know about it, she has still put it behind her. Joe on the other hand... well, not so much.
This is a very tense novella that explains a few things the followers of the series should know and tightens up the scene for the next book which I am awaiting with bated breath. All of these paranormal stories have been suspenseful, but this one is certainly a bit darker than the others. Previously, we only saw glimpes into the personalities of these two brothers. Finn is a much more laid back guy and Joe is wound up way too tight. The tension in the household is palpable as Joe makes the most of every opportunity to remind Ana how much he dislikes her and how badly he wishes she would leave. To add to the story, some interesting things come out involving Ana'a mother, which explains a bit of Joe's hostility and it causes Ana to think Finn deserves someone better than herself. The situation builds to a cresendo and Ana is at the apex when things finally explode. A rip in the relationship between the two St. Andrews brothers and Ana will tear wide open.
The author does an excellent job of building suspense and tension. It's raw and edgy, leaving the reader holding their breath in anticipation. I am really enjoying this series and I am glad we got an inside look at what happened after the big Maine snowstorm and what took place in subsequent novels in the series. This explains a great deal and now we wait to see where we all go from here. I highly recommend that readers check out the first novel in this series before reading this one. Trust me, you like this series so you will want to start at the beginning so you will have better understanding of what brought us all to this point. Once again Sarah has done a fantastic job. A+
Anasofiya arrived in Maine with a great deal of baggage. Although she had been helped a lot by the locals in preparing her for the harsh Maine winter to come, it was still much more than the New Orleans native could have imagined. That wasn't all Ana had to worry about that winter. She was the target of an obsessed man. Ana the St. Andrews brothers had barely survived that winter. Now, with Finn home from the hospital the feelings he and Ana have for one another have grown into a full fledged love affair. Things are not all peaches and cream though. While Finn was recovering in the hospital, Ana and Finn's brother, Joe had a moment most likely brought on my extreme stress, but it happened non the less and although Ana is concerned Finn wouldn' t understand and she doesn't want him to know about it, she has still put it behind her. Joe on the other hand... well, not so much.
This is a very tense novella that explains a few things the followers of the series should know and tightens up the scene for the next book which I am awaiting with bated breath. All of these paranormal stories have been suspenseful, but this one is certainly a bit darker than the others. Previously, we only saw glimpes into the personalities of these two brothers. Finn is a much more laid back guy and Joe is wound up way too tight. The tension in the household is palpable as Joe makes the most of every opportunity to remind Ana how much he dislikes her and how badly he wishes she would leave. To add to the story, some interesting things come out involving Ana'a mother, which explains a bit of Joe's hostility and it causes Ana to think Finn deserves someone better than herself. The situation builds to a cresendo and Ana is at the apex when things finally explode. A rip in the relationship between the two St. Andrews brothers and Ana will tear wide open.
The author does an excellent job of building suspense and tension. It's raw and edgy, leaving the reader holding their breath in anticipation. I am really enjoying this series and I am glad we got an inside look at what happened after the big Maine snowstorm and what took place in subsequent novels in the series. This explains a great deal and now we wait to see where we all go from here. I highly recommend that readers check out the first novel in this series before reading this one. Trust me, you like this series so you will want to start at the beginning so you will have better understanding of what brought us all to this point. Once again Sarah has done a fantastic job. A+
June 19, 2014
* I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review. *
WOW....another 5 star read by Sarah and another when is the next one coming out squeal from me! I love the characters that the author uses in this series and just when you think you have it all figured out another twist comes out of no where! I love the dynamics between the families and the fact that the series continues to get better and not stagnate as it goes on. There is always something new to read and each book becomes more addicting than the previous. This is a quick read and an amazing one! Grab book one from the series and I guarantee that you will just keep going until you have read them all!
WOW....another 5 star read by Sarah and another when is the next one coming out squeal from me! I love the characters that the author uses in this series and just when you think you have it all figured out another twist comes out of no where! I love the dynamics between the families and the fact that the series continues to get better and not stagnate as it goes on. There is always something new to read and each book becomes more addicting than the previous. This is a quick read and an amazing one! Grab book one from the series and I guarantee that you will just keep going until you have read them all!
February 15, 2014
Whoa. Just, whoa. I just finished reading Beyond Darkness: Shattered and I just. . .whoa.
When I finished reading the previous novels, The Storm and the Darkness, and The Illusions of Eventide, I was in love with this series and the characters but there was obviously a whole story that happened between the books and I was desperately wishing to know what happened between Ana, Finn and Jon. Well, be careful what you wish for became very true while reading this book. I finally got my wish but I was left with a hole ripped out of my chest and my brain wanting to implode.
Just. . .whoa.
After the events of The Storm and the Darkness, I was a total 100% Jon shipper. I love dark men in my books, I like sweet book men too, but the ones with a dark twist always grab me and don't let go. Well, for me Jon really hit the bill - he's dark, he's slightly twisted (although I didn't realize how much until this book) he also seems to match Ana pretty well. Then you've got Finn, who is sweet as freaking pie and totally in love with Ana. He's all goodness and light and I don't think there is a bad bone in his body.
I'm so conflicted because Ana and Jon made sense to me as a couple and to be honest I had been rooting for them in the previous novel, but Finn and Ana make sense as a couple as well. Ugh! So complicated.
Which is where I come to Ana, who I have to admit kind of annoyed the crap out of me this time around. This woman really sees herself as bad and unworthy of love, but for me I think it's all self induced, I don't think she's nearly as bad as she seems to think she is. Yeah, she has made some pretty crappy decisions but again, they are self induced. What really started to annoy me is her going on and on throughout the book, about how there is a darkness in her. Seriously, sweetie. It's time to move on from that song and dance. For some reason I was just annoyed by her. Don't get me wrong I still felt bad for her and while I slightly understood her decision making, I was still just kind of cringing along with it.
And than you've got Jon who is DARK, wow, this man. I really loved him before and now after what he does to Ana. Crap. I don't know how I feel about him anymore. I'm still just shaking my head and trying to figure out where all of this is going to go from here on out. Even knowing the events of The Illusions of Eventide which takes place after this darkly weaved angst fest, I am still seriously stressing the frack out. Seriously.
All I'm left with is poor Jon, poor Ana, poor Finn.
Poor me. Just ignore me clutching my iPad and rocking back and forth in the corner with a horrified expression on my face.
This whole book has sent me into a funk and I am resisting the urge to just start screaming, my poor house has already gotten to hear me rant about what I just read, if I start screaming - it would be bad. All of that being said, I loved every single second of it. I adore the way that Sarah M. Cradit writes and I love this series. The writing is above and beyond, the way that she weaves words is really quite lovely.
Definitely read this book if you've been following the story, it is written in a way that even if you are new to the series, you'll understand what is happening, but if you've been following along with the other books, the experience is going to be much deeper.
I loved it, go read it, hopefully it will drive you insane too. In a good way.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books
When I finished reading the previous novels, The Storm and the Darkness, and The Illusions of Eventide, I was in love with this series and the characters but there was obviously a whole story that happened between the books and I was desperately wishing to know what happened between Ana, Finn and Jon. Well, be careful what you wish for became very true while reading this book. I finally got my wish but I was left with a hole ripped out of my chest and my brain wanting to implode.
Just. . .whoa.
After the events of The Storm and the Darkness, I was a total 100% Jon shipper. I love dark men in my books, I like sweet book men too, but the ones with a dark twist always grab me and don't let go. Well, for me Jon really hit the bill - he's dark, he's slightly twisted (although I didn't realize how much until this book) he also seems to match Ana pretty well. Then you've got Finn, who is sweet as freaking pie and totally in love with Ana. He's all goodness and light and I don't think there is a bad bone in his body.
I'm so conflicted because Ana and Jon made sense to me as a couple and to be honest I had been rooting for them in the previous novel, but Finn and Ana make sense as a couple as well. Ugh! So complicated.
Which is where I come to Ana, who I have to admit kind of annoyed the crap out of me this time around. This woman really sees herself as bad and unworthy of love, but for me I think it's all self induced, I don't think she's nearly as bad as she seems to think she is. Yeah, she has made some pretty crappy decisions but again, they are self induced. What really started to annoy me is her going on and on throughout the book, about how there is a darkness in her. Seriously, sweetie. It's time to move on from that song and dance. For some reason I was just annoyed by her. Don't get me wrong I still felt bad for her and while I slightly understood her decision making, I was still just kind of cringing along with it.
And than you've got Jon who is DARK, wow, this man. I really loved him before and now after what he does to Ana. Crap. I don't know how I feel about him anymore. I'm still just shaking my head and trying to figure out where all of this is going to go from here on out. Even knowing the events of The Illusions of Eventide which takes place after this darkly weaved angst fest, I am still seriously stressing the frack out. Seriously.
All I'm left with is poor Jon, poor Ana, poor Finn.
Poor me. Just ignore me clutching my iPad and rocking back and forth in the corner with a horrified expression on my face.
This whole book has sent me into a funk and I am resisting the urge to just start screaming, my poor house has already gotten to hear me rant about what I just read, if I start screaming - it would be bad. All of that being said, I loved every single second of it. I adore the way that Sarah M. Cradit writes and I love this series. The writing is above and beyond, the way that she weaves words is really quite lovely.
Definitely read this book if you've been following the story, it is written in a way that even if you are new to the series, you'll understand what is happening, but if you've been following along with the other books, the experience is going to be much deeper.
I loved it, go read it, hopefully it will drive you insane too. In a good way.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books
July 5, 2016
Review
Plot/Story: This is a short story and more of a novella. The story continues to follow Ana who found the love she needed and after all the things she’s been through she thought now everything will be okay, but life doesn’t work that way.
Characters: I love Ana and I still relate to her the most, but even after reading the books before and I knew she was, but in this book I wanted to grab her and shake her hard, lol. After surviving all that has happened to her we get a closer look at the darkness in Ana and in Jon. Finn is still my favorite character :)
Romance/Kills: So many twists and turns, The darkness that lays deep in us all, truly come up in this book in Ana and Jon, in a way that surprised me completely. We learn more about Ana and the history behind these characters.
Writing: The author’s crafts a wonderful story that follows the characters we already knew, or we thought we knew. In this short story, there are so many things happening, with twists and turns and the author shows the human nature and the darkness in us so well. Believe me that you won’t get bored reading this book. Every detail is weaved in perfectly.
Beginning: From the beginning, I was hooked to the story and to the characters; I didn’t want to let them go. The flow and the pacing of the book were great, letting the suspense build up and making me even more connected to the story.
Ending: Noooo! It ended too fast (I will leave you all with that).
Cover Art: The cover is gorgeous as ever <3
Blurb: As always Cradit’s blurbs make me grab the book without any hesitation. Love the blurb.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “Anasofiya Deschanel sat before the antique glass vanity, gazing mournfully at the contents of her cosmetic case.”
Highlights: This series is well written and this novella is by far my favorite so far. From the skilled writing to the amazing twists, this story will won’t let you rest until the end.
Lowlights: None.
Final Thoughts: Wow (must read the next book).
Read more at:
The Reading Bud
Plot/Story: This is a short story and more of a novella. The story continues to follow Ana who found the love she needed and after all the things she’s been through she thought now everything will be okay, but life doesn’t work that way.
Characters: I love Ana and I still relate to her the most, but even after reading the books before and I knew she was, but in this book I wanted to grab her and shake her hard, lol. After surviving all that has happened to her we get a closer look at the darkness in Ana and in Jon. Finn is still my favorite character :)
Romance/Kills: So many twists and turns, The darkness that lays deep in us all, truly come up in this book in Ana and Jon, in a way that surprised me completely. We learn more about Ana and the history behind these characters.
Writing: The author’s crafts a wonderful story that follows the characters we already knew, or we thought we knew. In this short story, there are so many things happening, with twists and turns and the author shows the human nature and the darkness in us so well. Believe me that you won’t get bored reading this book. Every detail is weaved in perfectly.
Beginning: From the beginning, I was hooked to the story and to the characters; I didn’t want to let them go. The flow and the pacing of the book were great, letting the suspense build up and making me even more connected to the story.
Ending: Noooo! It ended too fast (I will leave you all with that).
Cover Art: The cover is gorgeous as ever <3
Blurb: As always Cradit’s blurbs make me grab the book without any hesitation. Love the blurb.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “Anasofiya Deschanel sat before the antique glass vanity, gazing mournfully at the contents of her cosmetic case.”
Highlights: This series is well written and this novella is by far my favorite so far. From the skilled writing to the amazing twists, this story will won’t let you rest until the end.
Lowlights: None.
Final Thoughts: Wow (must read the next book).
Read more at:
The Reading Bud
April 11, 2016
•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••
LC Kane's performance always enthralls me. This is one of my favorite audio serieses! The dark southern gothic themes should be out of place on a small Maine island but the author's eloquent writing and the narrator's expressive performance draw you so deeply into the world of this series it is impossible to doubt any facet of the characters' world. I eagerly await each new installment. I have no doubt I will be relistening to this series for years to come!
××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××
The True Power Of Love, Hate & Doubt
This series must be listened to (or read) in order. The first *real* book is The Storm And The Darkness. This is the second book. There are ancillary books that may be listened to (or read) at any time but I suggest leaving them for later! I can't wait to listen to The Illusions Of Eventide!
Ana and Finn have found safety and love in each other's arms. Everything should be perfect. John is livid that Ana does not return his feelings and just wants her gone. He is willing to go to almost any lengths to accomplish his goal of forcing Ana away ... From the island, his brother, him. Ana is trying to reconcile her feelings and doubts along with the hurt Nicholas' abandonment has caused. Can she let herself be happy with Finn? Does she even deserve happiness with all the Darkness inside of her? Will Finn decide she is not worth the trouble like all the others? Why can't she be more like her sainted mother?
***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy dark paranormal fantasy with Southern Gothic mores and conflicted villians (who hide behind kindness) with touches of romance, family secrets and plenty of thrills, mystery, suspense and horror while still allowing for hope :)
***Not for the closed minded or feint of heart***
LC Kane's performance always enthralls me. This is one of my favorite audio serieses! The dark southern gothic themes should be out of place on a small Maine island but the author's eloquent writing and the narrator's expressive performance draw you so deeply into the world of this series it is impossible to doubt any facet of the characters' world. I eagerly await each new installment. I have no doubt I will be relistening to this series for years to come!
××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××
The True Power Of Love, Hate & Doubt
This series must be listened to (or read) in order. The first *real* book is The Storm And The Darkness. This is the second book. There are ancillary books that may be listened to (or read) at any time but I suggest leaving them for later! I can't wait to listen to The Illusions Of Eventide!
Ana and Finn have found safety and love in each other's arms. Everything should be perfect. John is livid that Ana does not return his feelings and just wants her gone. He is willing to go to almost any lengths to accomplish his goal of forcing Ana away ... From the island, his brother, him. Ana is trying to reconcile her feelings and doubts along with the hurt Nicholas' abandonment has caused. Can she let herself be happy with Finn? Does she even deserve happiness with all the Darkness inside of her? Will Finn decide she is not worth the trouble like all the others? Why can't she be more like her sainted mother?
***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy dark paranormal fantasy with Southern Gothic mores and conflicted villians (who hide behind kindness) with touches of romance, family secrets and plenty of thrills, mystery, suspense and horror while still allowing for hope :)
***Not for the closed minded or feint of heart***
May 11, 2014
![Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000035_00004]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1443155643i/16326499.jpg)
4 Stars Amazon|Goodreads
Meg's Review:
I Loved the Novel that this pairs with and was very excited for the novella. I was not disappointed.
Sarah M. Cradit has done a magnificent job making this series flow wonderfully even though you bounce around. It has kept it interesting.
This novella gives you a different look at Anasofiya and Finn. This novella is a quick read but it is aptly titled. It is a story about love and growing up from the ashes. Some parts are very dark and definitely evoke strong emotions. I am a fan of reading a novel without reading its synopsis so I was in for a treat with this novel. I went into it not knowing what Sarah was throwing at me.
This novel answered a lot of equations about Finn and Anasofiya as well as some truths about Jon. It is definitely a novella that should be read after you have read the others in the series, as it does pertain to them. I suppose you don't have to? But you will be confused.
http://wp.me/p3iIv8-LQ
February 3, 2014
Key Plot Elements: a woman who feels she will never be good enough, and a man who loves her flaws and all; a cruel and selfish brother who I’d like to have 15 minutes alone with; a Saint Bernard and Cocoa the kitty; adult content and language; drama; paranormal.
Not your typical love story, this novella is intended to fill in between the main House of Crimson & Clover novels. While there are a few short reminders to those main works, you will connect best with this story if you’ve first read “The Storm and the Darkness.”
Powerful, engaging, surprising, and heartbreaking, “Shattered” unfolds seamlessly in a way that had my heart racing. Secrets are artfully revealed as a story with in a story. Long held devotion, new love, and loyalty are all devastated. This story explores the resulting rubble of emotions, and if a new foundation can be built.
This is a novella between two full length novels. A “filling in of the blanks” as it were. While several of the main plots revealed in “Shattered” are resolved, the story continues in “The Illusions of Eventide” and beyond.
Finally, I feel obligated to warn that “Shattered” does have a short assault scene which may be uncomfortable for some readers. Frankly, it made me mad as [expletive omitted].
Not your typical love story, this novella is intended to fill in between the main House of Crimson & Clover novels. While there are a few short reminders to those main works, you will connect best with this story if you’ve first read “The Storm and the Darkness.”
Powerful, engaging, surprising, and heartbreaking, “Shattered” unfolds seamlessly in a way that had my heart racing. Secrets are artfully revealed as a story with in a story. Long held devotion, new love, and loyalty are all devastated. This story explores the resulting rubble of emotions, and if a new foundation can be built.
This is a novella between two full length novels. A “filling in of the blanks” as it were. While several of the main plots revealed in “Shattered” are resolved, the story continues in “The Illusions of Eventide” and beyond.
Finally, I feel obligated to warn that “Shattered” does have a short assault scene which may be uncomfortable for some readers. Frankly, it made me mad as [expletive omitted].
February 17, 2014
As always, a beautiful cover that sets the overall tone of the story. After reading The Illusions of Eventide, I had a lot of questions about Ana and Finn and this novella filled in the blanks and added even more depth to their characters, in addition to a disquieting glimpse into Jon's mind.
I've always been a fan of Nicolas - I just like his straightforward attitude; however, after reading Shattered, I think I want to wrap up Finn and take him home. He had to face a lot of disturbing truths about his life in this story and made some mistakes along the way, but wasn't afraid to admit fault.
At times in this novella, I just wanted to smack Ana and tell her to quit wallowing in her darkness, come up for air and appreciate what she's got - a caring and supportive family and an amazing guy who loves her for who she really is. For a reader to react that way to a fictional character is just great character development by the author, in my opinion.
Although short, this novella brings a lot to the table in terms of Ana's, Finn's, and Jon's characters and isn't something you want to miss in this series. I agree with the author that The Illusions of Eventide should be read before this book.
This review is based on a digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I've always been a fan of Nicolas - I just like his straightforward attitude; however, after reading Shattered, I think I want to wrap up Finn and take him home. He had to face a lot of disturbing truths about his life in this story and made some mistakes along the way, but wasn't afraid to admit fault.
At times in this novella, I just wanted to smack Ana and tell her to quit wallowing in her darkness, come up for air and appreciate what she's got - a caring and supportive family and an amazing guy who loves her for who she really is. For a reader to react that way to a fictional character is just great character development by the author, in my opinion.
Although short, this novella brings a lot to the table in terms of Ana's, Finn's, and Jon's characters and isn't something you want to miss in this series. I agree with the author that The Illusions of Eventide should be read before this book.
This review is based on a digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2014
Beyond Darkness: Shattered is part of The House of Crimson & Clover Series. Author Sarah M. Cradit’s novels and novellas function as stand alone books but Cradit suggests reading The Storm and the Darkness before reading Beyond Darkness: Shattered. I’ve read the entire series of novels and novellas and they’re amazing!
Beyond Darkness: Shattered brings the reader closer to Anasofiya, a thirty-year-old, intelligent, guarded and mysterious woman from the wealthy Deschanel family of New Orleans; Finn St. Andrews, a handsome fisherman, and Finn’s brother Jon, an aloof, rude man.
Finn and Jon remind me of the Yin-Yang symbols; Finn being the light, sunny Yang and Jon the dark, shadowed Yin. However, Yin cannot survive without Yang and vice versa. Although Ana is convinced she’s shrouded in dark, a beam of light radiates from her. The St. Andrews brothers are captivated by her which leads to a dramatic love triangle. What Ana and Finn share is beautiful but Jon is hell bent on destroying their love.
One of the most captivating scenes in the novella involve Ana and Finn: “Ana, this is love. This right here.” She said nothing for the longest time, but then her eyes blinked with pools of tears, and she nodded. “It is, isn’t it?” That was enough. (29).
Beyond Darkness: Shattered brings the reader closer to Anasofiya, a thirty-year-old, intelligent, guarded and mysterious woman from the wealthy Deschanel family of New Orleans; Finn St. Andrews, a handsome fisherman, and Finn’s brother Jon, an aloof, rude man.
Finn and Jon remind me of the Yin-Yang symbols; Finn being the light, sunny Yang and Jon the dark, shadowed Yin. However, Yin cannot survive without Yang and vice versa. Although Ana is convinced she’s shrouded in dark, a beam of light radiates from her. The St. Andrews brothers are captivated by her which leads to a dramatic love triangle. What Ana and Finn share is beautiful but Jon is hell bent on destroying their love.
One of the most captivating scenes in the novella involve Ana and Finn: “Ana, this is love. This right here.” She said nothing for the longest time, but then her eyes blinked with pools of tears, and she nodded. “It is, isn’t it?” That was enough. (29).
April 24, 2016
Wow! This is my favorite book in Sarah Cradit's House of Crimson and Clover series yet.
The novella gives a lot of insight into Ana Deschanel as well as both St. Andrews brothers, Finn and Jon.
The writing is crisp. Sarah Cradit knows how to tell a story and keep her readers hooked. While reading, I can see Summer Island and it's inhabitants. The author balances the relationship/feeling spectrum nicely. The novella delves deep into the characters--giving the reader much insight into their background and what makes them tick. The exploration of this triangle between the two brothers and Ana is intense and a bit dark at times.
I think I said, "Nooooooo!" to my e-reader at the ending. The book was a page turner and I couldn't believe I had read through it so quickly. I was not ready for this book to end, and I cannot wait to learn more of Ana's and Finn's story. The ending/segue has me on the edge of my seat. I cannot wait to get started on the next book in the series!
The novella gives a lot of insight into Ana Deschanel as well as both St. Andrews brothers, Finn and Jon.
The writing is crisp. Sarah Cradit knows how to tell a story and keep her readers hooked. While reading, I can see Summer Island and it's inhabitants. The author balances the relationship/feeling spectrum nicely. The novella delves deep into the characters--giving the reader much insight into their background and what makes them tick. The exploration of this triangle between the two brothers and Ana is intense and a bit dark at times.
I think I said, "Nooooooo!" to my e-reader at the ending. The book was a page turner and I couldn't believe I had read through it so quickly. I was not ready for this book to end, and I cannot wait to learn more of Ana's and Finn's story. The ending/segue has me on the edge of my seat. I cannot wait to get started on the next book in the series!
June 17, 2014
I love the series House of Crimson and Clover! Author Sarah M. Cradit is a brilliant author that delivers a story that reaches the heart. Her characters are rich with life and lovable, so much so that they become like friends and family to me. Learning more about this strange and wonderful family leaves me craving more of the story and wanting to dive into the next book. In Beyond Darkness Ana is fighting the darkness in her and trying to be good. She is in love with Finn and puts up with his brother Jons cruelty and anger towards her. When an unexpected occurrence occurs Ana starts doubting herself. She struggles with who she wants to be and who she thinks she is. Finn has to choose forgiveness and love or heartache. I love the look into Ana and Finns story and the love they share. I wonder what is to become of Jon and if he will ever find love and light or if he will always be dark. Will Ana and Finn make it in the future, will their love for each other be able to conquer all? We will have to find out in the books that come next.
February 1, 2014
Another great installment in the House of Crimson and Clover Series by Sarah M. Cradit! I have said since Beyond Dusk: Anne that Cradit can pack a huge punch into a novelette, and Beyond Darkness: Shattered confirms this truth. I was fascinated as the complexity of existing characters Ana, Finn and Jon was revealed. Ana’s strength and supernatural ability are tested. Finn’s abilities to both forgive and love are tested. And Jon, well…he puts the “Dark” is Darkness. Shattered is short, yes, but it’s a compelling read. Cradit does not hand you anything on a silver platter, but instead encourages you to think and to look within the characters to see who they really are. I can’t wait to follow these characters as their stories move on and enmesh with the lives of the other C&C characters.
***I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
***I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
August 13, 2016
4.5 stars
Following on from The Storm and the Darkness, the relationship between Ana and Finn has developed. Jon does his utmost to make Ana as uncomfortable as possible in the hope she will leave and go back to New Orleans.
Just as Ana realises she loves Finn, Jon’s behaviour escalates dangerously. Have Jon’s terrible actions ruined everything for Ana and Finn. As we discovered previously Finn and Jon are complete opposites, as starkly different as light and dark, and their relationship may be damaged beyond repair.
Ana and Nicolas are still estranged but when Ana gets a call from Oz to say Nicolas needs her she doesn’t hesitate.
A very complex triangle, quite dark but in the telling it gives more insight into the complicated characters of Ana and Jon. Finn seems, at the moment, to be the only guileless and candid personality of the three.
Following on from The Storm and the Darkness, the relationship between Ana and Finn has developed. Jon does his utmost to make Ana as uncomfortable as possible in the hope she will leave and go back to New Orleans.
Just as Ana realises she loves Finn, Jon’s behaviour escalates dangerously. Have Jon’s terrible actions ruined everything for Ana and Finn. As we discovered previously Finn and Jon are complete opposites, as starkly different as light and dark, and their relationship may be damaged beyond repair.
Ana and Nicolas are still estranged but when Ana gets a call from Oz to say Nicolas needs her she doesn’t hesitate.
A very complex triangle, quite dark but in the telling it gives more insight into the complicated characters of Ana and Jon. Finn seems, at the moment, to be the only guileless and candid personality of the three.
July 11, 2015
Another great installment in the House of Crimson and Clover Series by Sarah M. Cradit! I have said since Beyond Dusk: Anne that Cradit can pack a huge punch into a novelette, and Beyond Darkness: Shattered confirms this truth. I was fascinated as the complexity of existing characters Ana, Finn and Jon was revealed. Ana’s strength and supernatural ability are tested. Finn’s abilities to both forgive and love are tested. And Jon, well…he puts the “Dark” is Darkness. Shattered is short, yes, but it’s a compelling read. Cradit does not hand you anything on a silver platter, but instead encourages you to think and to look within the characters to see who they really are. I can’t wait to follow these characters as their stories move on and enmesh with the lives of the other C&C characters.
February 10, 2014
As always Sarah brings you into her world and winds the story around you.
This is a dark story, exploring three people and their relationship.
One brother is deeply in love with Ana. Finn is a great guy who finally found what he wants. He'll do anything he can to keep Ana.
The other brother doesn't know what he is. Jon is so broken and twisted that he wants things how they were, but Ana has his dark heart even more confused.
Ana is finally figuring out what she feels for Finn, but Jon threatens to ruin it all.
Can Finn and Ana find their way through the darkness Jon brings with him?
Great story, well defined characters, but it isn't all roses and sunshine. Still a great read.
This is a dark story, exploring three people and their relationship.
One brother is deeply in love with Ana. Finn is a great guy who finally found what he wants. He'll do anything he can to keep Ana.
The other brother doesn't know what he is. Jon is so broken and twisted that he wants things how they were, but Ana has his dark heart even more confused.
Ana is finally figuring out what she feels for Finn, but Jon threatens to ruin it all.
Can Finn and Ana find their way through the darkness Jon brings with him?
Great story, well defined characters, but it isn't all roses and sunshine. Still a great read.
July 29, 2016
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review *
Beyond Darkness: Shattered is another amazing 5 star read from Sarah M. Cradit.
Shattered is a bit darker than the other books and novellas in this series but it only makes this one that much more epic and powerful. It's a pretty fast read but it's raw and emotional and you won't be able to put it down.
This novella packs quite a punch with twists and turns that I definitely didn't see coming. I really enjoyed this book. This is one of the few series that I have followed from the beginning. This author has an amazing gift and I can't wait to see what she has in store for these awesome characters next!
Beyond Darkness: Shattered is another amazing 5 star read from Sarah M. Cradit.
Shattered is a bit darker than the other books and novellas in this series but it only makes this one that much more epic and powerful. It's a pretty fast read but it's raw and emotional and you won't be able to put it down.
This novella packs quite a punch with twists and turns that I definitely didn't see coming. I really enjoyed this book. This is one of the few series that I have followed from the beginning. This author has an amazing gift and I can't wait to see what she has in store for these awesome characters next!
June 30, 2014
Anasofiya has been running from everything and everyone to escape a past that has haunted her. Her love for Finn was her saving grace until something happens with Jon and her whole world comes crashing down around her. Have the demons of the past caught up to her? Or is she about to find out that no matter how far you run it may never be far enough! This book was excellent and gives you further insight into the Deschanel family and the twist and turns or their lives.
April 10, 2014
Another great novella; I almost like the shorter stories of the series than the full novels. The characters seemed so much more realistic than a straight romance novel typically shows. Also, the story definitely left me anxious for the upcoming story.
May 11, 2021
Not sure where all these 5 star ratings have come from.
November 27, 2020
no. nope. 0/10 do not recommend
TW / CW
The whole book centers around the premise that the main girl has chosen between two brothers (in a previous book) and the spurned brother verbally abuses her to the point of tears multiple times and is aggressive and threatening, culminating in an attempted rape scene (he wants to "ruin her for [his brother]" and when the brother walks in and assumes they are cheating, the rapist is shocked that the brother really loves her and surprised the brother is hurt by the rapist trying to rape her. (but only for that, and multiple times says to the woman that he isn't sorry he tried to rape her and he would do it again because he hates her so much and he is only not doing it because his brother would be hurt by that.)
And that's it. It's almost played off as an obsession with the girl and if feels a little like a set up for a romance in the series (I haven't read the actual series)
TW / CW
The whole book centers around the premise that the main girl has chosen between two brothers (in a previous book) and the spurned brother verbally abuses her to the point of tears multiple times and is aggressive and threatening, culminating in an attempted rape scene (he wants to "ruin her for [his brother]" and when the brother walks in and assumes they are cheating, the rapist is shocked that the brother really loves her and surprised the brother is hurt by the rapist trying to rape her. (but only for that, and multiple times says to the woman that he isn't sorry he tried to rape her and he would do it again because he hates her so much and he is only not doing it because his brother would be hurt by that.)
And that's it. It's almost played off as an obsession with the girl and if feels a little like a set up for a romance in the series (I haven't read the actual series)
June 8, 2022
3.5⭐️
I appreciated this novella, and getting additional insight of the relationship between everyone. I was completed thrown off and grossed out with Jon’s behavior, I thought from book1 we saw one side of him but book2 makes it seem like there’s some truly deep layers to this character. I felt like Ana was mmm whiney, more whiney than I wanted of her.
And I’m still waiting on the bad ass witchy vibes!! I’ll give it one more book and see if I get hooked but right now it’s kind of just a decent story with interesting and messy characters but nothing that’s really blowing me away to keep going.
I appreciated this novella, and getting additional insight of the relationship between everyone. I was completed thrown off and grossed out with Jon’s behavior, I thought from book1 we saw one side of him but book2 makes it seem like there’s some truly deep layers to this character. I felt like Ana was mmm whiney, more whiney than I wanted of her.
And I’m still waiting on the bad ass witchy vibes!! I’ll give it one more book and see if I get hooked but right now it’s kind of just a decent story with interesting and messy characters but nothing that’s really blowing me away to keep going.
January 14, 2023
In what world would a woman write a book in which a woman is assaulted physically and attempted to be raped and says it ok. This is why there’s victim shaming. Because they had consensual sex before it’s ok to slam her face into a table causing a cut and a bruise, choke her and digitally rape her. And then she goes into his office alone. What rape victim blindly goes in an isolated area with any man let alone her attacker. But she forgives him because she loves his brother. Absolutely disgusting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2017
Love this. Ana and Oz are main characters in the series. You see the love they have for each other but not on this level. This shows how deep their connection goes. To see them from the beginning.
October 9, 2024
Estou a ler este livro passados 11 anos de ter sido publicado... graças a Deus que não o apanhei na altura... que livro péssimo...
Tudo neste livro é horrível... nunca na minha vida imaginaria que o Jon tivesse feito aquilo tudo... que desilusão enorme...
Espero que o 3º livro da saga seja melhor.
Tudo neste livro é horrível... nunca na minha vida imaginaria que o Jon tivesse feito aquilo tudo... que desilusão enorme...
Espero que o 3º livro da saga seja melhor.
December 8, 2021
Disappointed
I’m somewhat enjoying the story. I feel like there are a lot of blank spots that just don’t entirely make sense. However I am very frustrated that I spent 2.99 for an hour of reading.
I’m somewhat enjoying the story. I feel like there are a lot of blank spots that just don’t entirely make sense. However I am very frustrated that I spent 2.99 for an hour of reading.
May 29, 2024
Drama
Lots of emotional drama, and little else, in a short read that is !pre like a bridge novella. It probably sets background for something down the road. It certainly doesn't do much else.
Lots of emotional drama, and little else, in a short read that is !pre like a bridge novella. It probably sets background for something down the road. It certainly doesn't do much else.
January 20, 2019
Good book, very well developed characters and amazing storyline. I have enjoyed everything I’ve read from this particular author. Looking forward to reading what’s next.
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