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Game of Shadows #2
Falling Light
Centuries ago, two lovers were torn apart by forces beyond their control. Now they have been reunited by destiny and are willing to sacrifice everything again-and again-to save a world on the brink of extinction. The Game of Shadows continues...
Troubled by dreams of strange creatures and unfamiliar voices echoing in her head, Mary has always felt disconnected from this world-until she met the enigmatic stranger Michael. He knew about Mary's past. He was in it. Searching for her. His soul mate. And it's taken centuries to find her, to re-engage her in an ancient, celestial cause: find the Deceiver before he destroys the world.
Haunted by scores of deaths - including their own - Mary and Michael have drawn on the wisdom of the ages, and the power it has given them, to fight the most malevolent force known to man. Joining a select band of warriors, Mary and Michael are nearer to understanding the Deceiver and all he stands for. It's a terrifying reality that also brings them closer to realizing their own destiny and purpose. And realizing that love-like evil-is eternal . . .
Troubled by dreams of strange creatures and unfamiliar voices echoing in her head, Mary has always felt disconnected from this world-until she met the enigmatic stranger Michael. He knew about Mary's past. He was in it. Searching for her. His soul mate. And it's taken centuries to find her, to re-engage her in an ancient, celestial cause: find the Deceiver before he destroys the world.
Haunted by scores of deaths - including their own - Mary and Michael have drawn on the wisdom of the ages, and the power it has given them, to fight the most malevolent force known to man. Joining a select band of warriors, Mary and Michael are nearer to understanding the Deceiver and all he stands for. It's a terrifying reality that also brings them closer to realizing their own destiny and purpose. And realizing that love-like evil-is eternal . . .
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2014
46 people are currently reading
1060 people want to read
About the author
Thea Harrison
63 books5,494 followersI write paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and other stuff. I taught myself to read when I was four. That was around the time I tried to ride my tricycle to work. I wasn't sure where work was, but I knew it had to be interesting if people went there every day. Now I combine my love of books with work, and I don't have to ride my tricycle to get there. My Elder Races series began May, 2011. You can also find me on Twitter and Facebook!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 18, 2014
Spoilers
I wasn't all that blown away by the first book, it was a decent enough read but it felt more like an overly long introduction/set up rather than a story within itself… Because of that I thought there would be a few books which would slowly build up to a big finale. I was surprised to find that Falling Light was the last book and that the series was just a duology. I didn't think the story could be dealt with in one book in a satisfying way. Thankfully, the plot and characters were all wrapped up relatively nice and neatly.
-Most of the first half was spent on Mary and Michael trying to reach their ally/friend/mentor, Astra, whilst avoiding the Deceiver (the bad guy), his minions, and the authorities. Them running around and occasionally fighting one of the bad guys wasn't all that interesting, it didn't really add anything relevant to the overarching plot or characters. It was only in the latter half when Mary and Michael reached Astra where things started to get more exciting, the plan to destroy the Deceiver came together and it made for gripping reading.
-Mary and Michael were more or less decent characters, they both irritated me at times though. Michael was too closed off and pushed Mary away whenever he was upset, and Mary was too do goody and moral about things when she didn't have the luxury to be like that.
-It was annoying how Mary kept pissing around and delaying the race to get to Astra. Hers and Michael's life was in danger and instead of rushing to safety and help she kept wasting time with nonsense even though she knew that the bad guys were right behind them. She was a very frustrating character.
-I liked Astra a lot more than Mary, she talked more sense and was willing to make sacrifices to ensure the Deceiver and his evul plans would die. Astra had her priorities right whereas Mary ignored the bigger picture in favour of acting all righteous and outraged.
-I was far more interested in Astra/the Deceiver's past relationship than Mary/Michael's. Mary and Michael were sweet together and I was happy they got their HEA. But they weren't as intriguing as Astra and the Deceiver, who seemed to have more angst, mystery, and history. I would have loved to read about them, I wanted to know if they ever got along with each other, if they were ever romantic, if they once had feelings for each other, when and why their relationship was destroyed, and if they still loved each other in some sort of twisted way. Their relationship was so much more enthralling.
-Why was the Deceiver evul? He was greedy, shallow, and power crazy, and didn't care at all about destroying other people. Why was he like that? Why did he hate Astra when they were soulmates? How could Astra and the Deceiver be soulmates when they had such differing attitudes, ethics and morals?
All in all, a decent end to the duology. Mary and Michael got a lovely HEA by getting the boring, uneventful life they'd always wanted. The only thing was truly disappointing was not getting more of Astra/the Deceiver's story and history.
I wasn't all that blown away by the first book, it was a decent enough read but it felt more like an overly long introduction/set up rather than a story within itself… Because of that I thought there would be a few books which would slowly build up to a big finale. I was surprised to find that Falling Light was the last book and that the series was just a duology. I didn't think the story could be dealt with in one book in a satisfying way. Thankfully, the plot and characters were all wrapped up relatively nice and neatly.
-Most of the first half was spent on Mary and Michael trying to reach their ally/friend/mentor, Astra, whilst avoiding the Deceiver (the bad guy), his minions, and the authorities. Them running around and occasionally fighting one of the bad guys wasn't all that interesting, it didn't really add anything relevant to the overarching plot or characters. It was only in the latter half when Mary and Michael reached Astra where things started to get more exciting, the plan to destroy the Deceiver came together and it made for gripping reading.
-Mary and Michael were more or less decent characters, they both irritated me at times though. Michael was too closed off and pushed Mary away whenever he was upset, and Mary was too do goody and moral about things when she didn't have the luxury to be like that.
-It was annoying how Mary kept pissing around and delaying the race to get to Astra. Hers and Michael's life was in danger and instead of rushing to safety and help she kept wasting time with nonsense even though she knew that the bad guys were right behind them. She was a very frustrating character.
-I liked Astra a lot more than Mary, she talked more sense and was willing to make sacrifices to ensure the Deceiver and his evul plans would die. Astra had her priorities right whereas Mary ignored the bigger picture in favour of acting all righteous and outraged.
-I was far more interested in Astra/the Deceiver's past relationship than Mary/Michael's. Mary and Michael were sweet together and I was happy they got their HEA. But they weren't as intriguing as Astra and the Deceiver, who seemed to have more angst, mystery, and history. I would have loved to read about them, I wanted to know if they ever got along with each other, if they were ever romantic, if they once had feelings for each other, when and why their relationship was destroyed, and if they still loved each other in some sort of twisted way. Their relationship was so much more enthralling.
-Why was the Deceiver evul? He was greedy, shallow, and power crazy, and didn't care at all about destroying other people. Why was he like that? Why did he hate Astra when they were soulmates? How could Astra and the Deceiver be soulmates when they had such differing attitudes, ethics and morals?
All in all, a decent end to the duology. Mary and Michael got a lovely HEA by getting the boring, uneventful life they'd always wanted. The only thing was truly disappointing was not getting more of Astra/the Deceiver's story and history.
February 10, 2014
I had hoped that after I got thoroughly acquainted with this premise and word-building in Rising Darkness, I would come to love this Thea Harrison series as I do her Elder Races books. While I found I enjoyed this installment more than the first, I just can’t connect with these books the same way. This is well written and the pacing is much better this time around. But I think my problem is an inability to connect to the premise on the most basic level, and to some of the characters as well. Essentially, we’re talking about spirit aliens, reincarnation, and Lucifer all rolled into one. And while I enjoy SFF with the best of them, it didn’t ring my bell.
The story picks up right where the last one left off, in the wake of an epic battle involving Michael, Mary, and the Deceiver. Our villain is off licking his wounds, while Michael and Mary are trying to make their way to Astra. These two are soul mates, but there is so much wariness between them. I had hoped that when these two came together in the last book, it would be a turning point. But Michael runs hot and cold –mostly cold. His background gives him great potential to be the pent-up, stoic hero who opens up for the woman who loves him. But he is so closed off. I didn’t feel the emotional connection between these two. And they’re SOUL MATES. There is even a hint of a love triangle and I found myself contemplating whether I might enjoy a scenario involving Mary and Nicholas. This does not speak highly of the integrity of the core romance.
Beyond that, I couldn’t relate to Astra. Maybe I wasn’t supposed to, seeing as she is an ancient alien that can talk to lakes and elements. I felt like the Lucifer tie-in was out of left field. And the romantic conclusion left me tepid.
It wasn’t a bad book. Harrison really is a great storyteller, but even if this series didn’t feel over, I think I would be done with it. I’ll just wait patiently for the next Elder Races book and be satisfied with that.
Rating: B-/C+
*ARC Provided by Berkley
The story picks up right where the last one left off, in the wake of an epic battle involving Michael, Mary, and the Deceiver. Our villain is off licking his wounds, while Michael and Mary are trying to make their way to Astra. These two are soul mates, but there is so much wariness between them. I had hoped that when these two came together in the last book, it would be a turning point. But Michael runs hot and cold –mostly cold. His background gives him great potential to be the pent-up, stoic hero who opens up for the woman who loves him. But he is so closed off. I didn’t feel the emotional connection between these two. And they’re SOUL MATES. There is even a hint of a love triangle and I found myself contemplating whether I might enjoy a scenario involving Mary and Nicholas. This does not speak highly of the integrity of the core romance.
Beyond that, I couldn’t relate to Astra. Maybe I wasn’t supposed to, seeing as she is an ancient alien that can talk to lakes and elements. I felt like the Lucifer tie-in was out of left field. And the romantic conclusion left me tepid.
It wasn’t a bad book. Harrison really is a great storyteller, but even if this series didn’t feel over, I think I would be done with it. I’ll just wait patiently for the next Elder Races book and be satisfied with that.
Rating: B-/C+
*ARC Provided by Berkley
November 10, 2014
Second in the Game of Shadows urban fantasy series and revolving around Mary, Michael, and Astra. Based in Michigan.
The story picks up where Rising Darkness , 1, left off with the battle in the woods at Michael's cabin.
My Take
I think this is the end of this part of the series, and it seems that Harrison will be embarking on a new spin-off from it. We'll see.
Essentially, this is a good plot line, but I'm not impressed. Harrison's writing is half-baked with little finesse — superficial is a good word. She makes a good stab at creating various levels of tension — the Deceiver's chasing Mary and Michael is very good, but the bit with Astra was good and too obvious at the same time. Harrison introduces possibilities for tension and goes nowhere with it. The crises that begin to bring Mary's memories back are convenient.
It's the age-old story of the search for eternal youth on the Deceiver's part, his desire to live life as he chooses. Only Harrison has stressed the most awful aspects, enough to terrify anyone, and it's so one-sided. There is no complexity to him. The Lake Michigan entity was the opposite to the Deceiver and was quite handy — and completely lacking in real tension.
It was more of a cartoon characterization, much as the Deceiver and Astra were. Astra is too quick to choose to kill, another one-sided character. And I suspect it's because she's tired of living. She wants it over. Okay, I'm being mean. Astra is more complex than that. She does have some warmth — look at her care for the island and the little fox. But when you dig into her…
The point Astra makes about soulmates not always equating with romantic love was a good one and turns out to be a bit of foretelling.
I do like the chance Mary gives Nicholas. It'll be interesting to see what Harrison/Nicholas do in the next story. I really liked Harrison's metaphor for the Entity, what I think is meant to represent Gaia with a truly gruesome description of what we're doing to our environment.
As smart as these people are supposed to be, why would they let Jerry and Jamie leave?
I enjoyed the sound of Astra's island, her home, and her food(!). The bits of history Harrison weaves in with the alien twins and how the Deceiver destroys them is interesting.
Still, it's Saturday-afternoon-at-the-movies without the fun.
The Story
It's a battle between recovering from their injuries and escaping the Deceiver. Of eluding the manhunt focused on Mary and Michael as they seek out Astra, for they'll need her aid in what they hope will be the final battle.
Along the way they'll learn about each other's talents and abilities. They'll remember their pasts…
The Characters
Mary was Michael's soulmate for millennia, but they haven't reunited for nine hundred years until Mary was healed from the damage the Deceiver did to her. Now she's Dr. Mary Byrne, an ER doctor, on the run from a very bad man.
Michael "Mr. Enigmatic" has been training to go up against the Deceiver most of this lifetime while hunting for his soulmate who has been missing for nine hundred years.
Astra is Michael's old childhood mentor. She chose not to be reborn and has been alive for millennia. It has allowed her to forge close ties with the people of the First Nations: they call her PtesanWi, White Buffalo Calf Woman. She was also the leader of the original seven who left their world six thousand years ago to chase after the Deceiver.
The Ojibwa
Jerry Crow is an Ojibwa elder who's dying. Nicholas is Jerry's son and has been murdered. So many hopes had been pinned on him: a Green Beret, part of the president's Secret Service detail and intended to protect the president from the Deceiver's touch. Jamie is one of Jerry's grandsons. Sara is Jamie's mother.
I think the Entity is meant to be Gaia. Or, it's meant to be Lake Michigan?? The dragon, the Honored One, of whom Mary speaks, healed her in Rising Darkness and is a supernatural creature she met in her previous life.
Charlotte and Jim are the worried couple at the rest stop.
The Deceiver, a.k.a., Lucifer, a.k.a., his oldest name, the Morning Star, a.k.a., Light Bearer, has been wreaking havoc on earth since he arrived six thousand years ago.
The sixty-some victims included:
Justin Byrne, Mary's ex-husband, had been one of the bodies the Deceiver took in Rising Darkness . Steven Ellis was reported missing by his wife, Vicki. The diner massacre consisted of Ruth Tandy, Jackie Parsons, Emilio Gonzales, Greg and Jeffrey Macomb, Beau Chambers, Dickey Boxleitner, Bobby Jackson, Cherry Tandy, and Sue Evans. James and Christine Atkins along with their son, Robert, and Christine's mother, Gina Barclay, were at the TGI Friday's; Christine's father, Ray Barclay, didn't survive the news.
Drones are servants to the Deceiver, turned with one handshake. Without a will of their own, they obey his every order and are everywhere: Martin, Ryan, and Allison are some of his drones at the FBI.
A Haokah is a sacred clown which teaches life lessons.
The Cover
The cover is greens and yellows and a slash of brown. It's Michael's face, determined, a sword in hand, emblazoned across the sky against a beam of yellow light, hovering above the lake and an old wooden pier.
The title is the Deceiver, the Falling Light that has destroyed so many.
The story picks up where Rising Darkness , 1, left off with the battle in the woods at Michael's cabin.
My Take
I think this is the end of this part of the series, and it seems that Harrison will be embarking on a new spin-off from it. We'll see.
Essentially, this is a good plot line, but I'm not impressed. Harrison's writing is half-baked with little finesse — superficial is a good word. She makes a good stab at creating various levels of tension — the Deceiver's chasing Mary and Michael is very good, but the bit with Astra was good and too obvious at the same time. Harrison introduces possibilities for tension and goes nowhere with it. The crises that begin to bring Mary's memories back are convenient.
It's the age-old story of the search for eternal youth on the Deceiver's part, his desire to live life as he chooses. Only Harrison has stressed the most awful aspects, enough to terrify anyone, and it's so one-sided. There is no complexity to him. The Lake Michigan entity was the opposite to the Deceiver and was quite handy — and completely lacking in real tension.
It was more of a cartoon characterization, much as the Deceiver and Astra were. Astra is too quick to choose to kill, another one-sided character. And I suspect it's because she's tired of living. She wants it over. Okay, I'm being mean. Astra is more complex than that. She does have some warmth — look at her care for the island and the little fox. But when you dig into her…
The point Astra makes about soulmates not always equating with romantic love was a good one and turns out to be a bit of foretelling.
I do like the chance Mary gives Nicholas. It'll be interesting to see what Harrison/Nicholas do in the next story. I really liked Harrison's metaphor for the Entity, what I think is meant to represent Gaia with a truly gruesome description of what we're doing to our environment.
As smart as these people are supposed to be, why would they let Jerry and Jamie leave?
I enjoyed the sound of Astra's island, her home, and her food(!). The bits of history Harrison weaves in with the alien twins and how the Deceiver destroys them is interesting.
Still, it's Saturday-afternoon-at-the-movies without the fun.
The Story
It's a battle between recovering from their injuries and escaping the Deceiver. Of eluding the manhunt focused on Mary and Michael as they seek out Astra, for they'll need her aid in what they hope will be the final battle.
Along the way they'll learn about each other's talents and abilities. They'll remember their pasts…
The Characters
Mary was Michael's soulmate for millennia, but they haven't reunited for nine hundred years until Mary was healed from the damage the Deceiver did to her. Now she's Dr. Mary Byrne, an ER doctor, on the run from a very bad man.
Michael "Mr. Enigmatic" has been training to go up against the Deceiver most of this lifetime while hunting for his soulmate who has been missing for nine hundred years.
Astra is Michael's old childhood mentor. She chose not to be reborn and has been alive for millennia. It has allowed her to forge close ties with the people of the First Nations: they call her PtesanWi, White Buffalo Calf Woman. She was also the leader of the original seven who left their world six thousand years ago to chase after the Deceiver.
The Ojibwa
Jerry Crow is an Ojibwa elder who's dying. Nicholas is Jerry's son and has been murdered. So many hopes had been pinned on him: a Green Beret, part of the president's Secret Service detail and intended to protect the president from the Deceiver's touch. Jamie is one of Jerry's grandsons. Sara is Jamie's mother.
I think the Entity is meant to be Gaia. Or, it's meant to be Lake Michigan?? The dragon, the Honored One, of whom Mary speaks, healed her in Rising Darkness and is a supernatural creature she met in her previous life.
Charlotte and Jim are the worried couple at the rest stop.
The Deceiver, a.k.a., Lucifer, a.k.a., his oldest name, the Morning Star, a.k.a., Light Bearer, has been wreaking havoc on earth since he arrived six thousand years ago.
The sixty-some victims included:
Justin Byrne, Mary's ex-husband, had been one of the bodies the Deceiver took in Rising Darkness . Steven Ellis was reported missing by his wife, Vicki. The diner massacre consisted of Ruth Tandy, Jackie Parsons, Emilio Gonzales, Greg and Jeffrey Macomb, Beau Chambers, Dickey Boxleitner, Bobby Jackson, Cherry Tandy, and Sue Evans. James and Christine Atkins along with their son, Robert, and Christine's mother, Gina Barclay, were at the TGI Friday's; Christine's father, Ray Barclay, didn't survive the news.
Drones are servants to the Deceiver, turned with one handshake. Without a will of their own, they obey his every order and are everywhere: Martin, Ryan, and Allison are some of his drones at the FBI.
A Haokah is a sacred clown which teaches life lessons.
The Cover
The cover is greens and yellows and a slash of brown. It's Michael's face, determined, a sword in hand, emblazoned across the sky against a beam of yellow light, hovering above the lake and an old wooden pier.
The title is the Deceiver, the Falling Light that has destroyed so many.
Read
January 12, 2014*Did not finish*
I picked up this book because I love Thea Harrison's Elder Races series and I was eager to try something new. Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me. I read up to page 60 and essentially nothing really happens. The main characters are on the run (which could have some exciting elements) but they were very bland.
If you are expecting something like the Elder Races series, you may be disappointed. This is very different.
I picked up this book because I love Thea Harrison's Elder Races series and I was eager to try something new. Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me. I read up to page 60 and essentially nothing really happens. The main characters are on the run (which could have some exciting elements) but they were very bland.
If you are expecting something like the Elder Races series, you may be disappointed. This is very different.
May 30, 2024
War meine Urlaubslekture....was soll ich sagen der Anfang viel mir sehr schwer und war etwas langatmig...das Buch hat mich erst recht spät durch Spannung gefesselt und ich muss sagen es ist in Ordnung, aber liegt vll auch daran, das ich den ersten Teil nicht kenne...keine Empfehlung
September 4, 2018
2.5
La saga Elder Races de esta autora es una de mis favoritas pero esta bilogía "sólo ha estado bien". Una pena...
La saga Elder Races de esta autora es una de mis favoritas pero esta bilogía "sólo ha estado bien". Una pena...
February 11, 2014
This is the second book in Thea Harrison's Game of Darkness series and concludes the journey of Mary and Michael that began in the previous book Rising Darkness. Fans of her Elder Races books will find this to be completely different to her other paranormal books as this time she brings aliens to her readers attention. Readers would definitely benefit from reading these books in order.
Six thousand years ago an evil and murderous being escaped from prison seeking more power and destruction. He was followed to Earth by a handful of those who hoped to prevent him but they paid an enormous price. In order to journey to Earth they would forever remain here and continue to be reborn until their job was done. A noble sacrifice that has not always had a happy outcome and now just three remain to battle the one they know as The Deceiver.
Mary has only recently discovered her true identity as one of those who gave up their own lives millennia ago to recapture The Deceiver. She is falling passionately in love with Michael who is without doubt her soulmate but learning to trust someone who she has little memory of is proving difficult. Having survived a recent attack by The Deciever who had used his power to quite literally body snatch her ex husbands body Mary is bewildered and unsure of her place in everything that's happening around her. Michael has no such doubts as he has spent lifetimes waiting for his soulmate to be reborn. His searching had seemed endless and yet now here she is and he's not going to let anything come between them again. Their only other ally is Astra but Michael isn't truly sure if she can be completely trusted. Like him Astra has been searching for thousands of years to recapture The Deceiver but she carries a dark secret that could destroy them all. As Mary and Michael journey further north they have become targets of those enslaved by the Deceiver and struggle to remain undetected but they can't hide forever and their showdown is closer then they think !
A much darker tale then the authors Elder Races stories and even though it has romance present this isn't the normal paranormal romance that Ms Harrison writes.It's a book that allows the reader to spend lots of time in the characters thoughts as although it contains action scenes there is a lot of information shared with the reader. As Mary discovers her past so do we but that could make the pace a little slow for some readers. Strong world building but not really a traditional paranormal romance to me. Interesting characters and the use of psychic connections helped bring the story to life . Loving the use of natural energy and spirits and found it original and well written.
Six thousand years ago an evil and murderous being escaped from prison seeking more power and destruction. He was followed to Earth by a handful of those who hoped to prevent him but they paid an enormous price. In order to journey to Earth they would forever remain here and continue to be reborn until their job was done. A noble sacrifice that has not always had a happy outcome and now just three remain to battle the one they know as The Deceiver.
Mary has only recently discovered her true identity as one of those who gave up their own lives millennia ago to recapture The Deceiver. She is falling passionately in love with Michael who is without doubt her soulmate but learning to trust someone who she has little memory of is proving difficult. Having survived a recent attack by The Deciever who had used his power to quite literally body snatch her ex husbands body Mary is bewildered and unsure of her place in everything that's happening around her. Michael has no such doubts as he has spent lifetimes waiting for his soulmate to be reborn. His searching had seemed endless and yet now here she is and he's not going to let anything come between them again. Their only other ally is Astra but Michael isn't truly sure if she can be completely trusted. Like him Astra has been searching for thousands of years to recapture The Deceiver but she carries a dark secret that could destroy them all. As Mary and Michael journey further north they have become targets of those enslaved by the Deceiver and struggle to remain undetected but they can't hide forever and their showdown is closer then they think !
A much darker tale then the authors Elder Races stories and even though it has romance present this isn't the normal paranormal romance that Ms Harrison writes.It's a book that allows the reader to spend lots of time in the characters thoughts as although it contains action scenes there is a lot of information shared with the reader. As Mary discovers her past so do we but that could make the pace a little slow for some readers. Strong world building but not really a traditional paranormal romance to me. Interesting characters and the use of psychic connections helped bring the story to life . Loving the use of natural energy and spirits and found it original and well written.
February 25, 2014
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
Despite my frustrations with the pacing and overwhelming world building of the previous installment, I had high hopes for FALLING LIGHT. Unfortunately despite this being one of the most unique worlds I have read in a long time, it just wound up being a difficult read. That unique world wound up just making things rather cumbersome as it was difficult to navigate all the different aspects. It's one of those reads where you really have to pay attention in order to follow things, and unfortunately I just wasn't able to sink into things as I would have liked. Don't get me wrong, FALLING LIGHT was enjoyable in part, but I still felt mostly disjointed which just left me feeling disappointed. I prefer to read to escape rather than have to pay close attention to complicated world rules.
I think another reason why this one only wound up being only a mediocre read for me was the lack of passion in the romance. Getting back to the disjointed feeling, that could sum this relationship perfectly. In the first book there was a decent amount of steam, but I still didn't quite attach. So this time around I was definitely hoping for just a bit more now that they had been together for a while longer and supposedly had this soul deep connection. Unfortunately that just didn't pan out as they spent most of this book dealing with massive insecurities and a overall lack of communication, which just left me wanting more.
I feel really guilty rating a Thea Harrison novel only at a two considering just how much I love her other books, but while I was able to finish this book it definitely wasn't easy at times. In the end, I don't regret seeing the duo-logy through due to the uniqueness, but in the end, Thea's Elder Races series largely outshines this one.
Despite my frustrations with the pacing and overwhelming world building of the previous installment, I had high hopes for FALLING LIGHT. Unfortunately despite this being one of the most unique worlds I have read in a long time, it just wound up being a difficult read. That unique world wound up just making things rather cumbersome as it was difficult to navigate all the different aspects. It's one of those reads where you really have to pay attention in order to follow things, and unfortunately I just wasn't able to sink into things as I would have liked. Don't get me wrong, FALLING LIGHT was enjoyable in part, but I still felt mostly disjointed which just left me feeling disappointed. I prefer to read to escape rather than have to pay close attention to complicated world rules.
I think another reason why this one only wound up being only a mediocre read for me was the lack of passion in the romance. Getting back to the disjointed feeling, that could sum this relationship perfectly. In the first book there was a decent amount of steam, but I still didn't quite attach. So this time around I was definitely hoping for just a bit more now that they had been together for a while longer and supposedly had this soul deep connection. Unfortunately that just didn't pan out as they spent most of this book dealing with massive insecurities and a overall lack of communication, which just left me wanting more.
I feel really guilty rating a Thea Harrison novel only at a two considering just how much I love her other books, but while I was able to finish this book it definitely wasn't easy at times. In the end, I don't regret seeing the duo-logy through due to the uniqueness, but in the end, Thea's Elder Races series largely outshines this one.
February 4, 2014
The Game of Shadows series once again proves Thea Harrison’s range as a writer. An altogether different beast than the popular Elder Races series, FALLING LIGHT is Paranormal Romance with a science fiction and action movie flair. Alien creatures in human form, endless battle with an evil foe, love that spans generations and incarnations, all of these elements make the scope of this series vast and intricate and interesting.
As much as I enjoyed the individual elements of this story, the complex world building and alien politics gets a little cramped within the confines of a single book. The opening chapters had a lot of backstory and inner monologues to cover, which made for a slow start. Michael and Mary burn up a lot of pages rehashing their insecurities and magical struggles, but it was not until the focus shifted to current events that the story gained forward momentum. All in all, FALLING LIGHT felt like most of the narrative was world building and character history, with only the last few chapters devoted to the present day struggle.
As much as I enjoyed the premise, and the way immortality and non-human motivations impact the story, FALLING LIGHT never fully immersed me in the characters or their world. More for fans of romantic SciFi or thrillers, FALLING LIGHT will be hit for readers who like intricate world-building, magical warfare, and romance.
Sexual Content: Sex scenes.
As much as I enjoyed the individual elements of this story, the complex world building and alien politics gets a little cramped within the confines of a single book. The opening chapters had a lot of backstory and inner monologues to cover, which made for a slow start. Michael and Mary burn up a lot of pages rehashing their insecurities and magical struggles, but it was not until the focus shifted to current events that the story gained forward momentum. All in all, FALLING LIGHT felt like most of the narrative was world building and character history, with only the last few chapters devoted to the present day struggle.
As much as I enjoyed the premise, and the way immortality and non-human motivations impact the story, FALLING LIGHT never fully immersed me in the characters or their world. More for fans of romantic SciFi or thrillers, FALLING LIGHT will be hit for readers who like intricate world-building, magical warfare, and romance.
Sexual Content: Sex scenes.
February 5, 2014
LOVED IT! Since I really enjoyed Rising Shadows, Book 1 in the Game of Shadows series, I could hardly wait to read Falling Light, Book 2! Falling Light picks up right where Rising Shadows ended.
Michael has finally found Mary and the two re-united lovers must make their way to re-join Astra while avoiding the Deceiver. I love the scenes with Michael and Mary - their chemistry is passionate and pulled my heart-strings tightly. Without Astra, they cannot hope to put away the Deceiver, but with Astra, they may be ending their own existence and the future they've dreamed of. Trusting the wrong person can end all hope. I loved the story and the surprising twists were beyond anything I'd imagined.
If you haven't read Rising Shadows, I would highly recommend that you read it 1st. Falling Light is not a stand-a-lone read. AND... if you love Rising Shadows, as I did, this is a must-read! Be aware that this series is nothing like The Elder Series, which I also love... Thea's captivating story-telling and the way her writing flows doesn't change... it's a treat in both series.
5 STARS!!!!!
Michael has finally found Mary and the two re-united lovers must make their way to re-join Astra while avoiding the Deceiver. I love the scenes with Michael and Mary - their chemistry is passionate and pulled my heart-strings tightly. Without Astra, they cannot hope to put away the Deceiver, but with Astra, they may be ending their own existence and the future they've dreamed of. Trusting the wrong person can end all hope. I loved the story and the surprising twists were beyond anything I'd imagined.
If you haven't read Rising Shadows, I would highly recommend that you read it 1st. Falling Light is not a stand-a-lone read. AND... if you love Rising Shadows, as I did, this is a must-read! Be aware that this series is nothing like The Elder Series, which I also love... Thea's captivating story-telling and the way her writing flows doesn't change... it's a treat in both series.
5 STARS!!!!!
January 31, 2014
The individual pieces of this series are compelling. Alien creatures in human form, endless battle with an evil foe, love that spans generations and incarnations, all of these elements make the scope of these stories vast and intricate and interesting. Within the confines of each book, however, things get a little cramped. Astra's and the Deceiver's POV's show us how alien they are, but they don't have many opportunities to show us how differently their mind works. Michael and Mary, too, burn up a lot of pages in the first few chapters rehashing their insecurities and magical properties, but it was not until the story hit the road and started moving that I really settled in.
An interesting premise, this series never immersed me in the characters or their world. More for fans of romantic SciFi or thrillers, where figuring out the mechanics of the world and plot is more of a priority than complete escape.
Full review to follow.
Sexual content: Sex scenes.
An interesting premise, this series never immersed me in the characters or their world. More for fans of romantic SciFi or thrillers, where figuring out the mechanics of the world and plot is more of a priority than complete escape.
Full review to follow.
Sexual content: Sex scenes.
February 8, 2014
I´m so happy that I read this book so I can eventually quit this series that I didn´t like at all. The first book I finished only to get to a "no end book", so I was compelled to read this one also, because of my problem of compulsion towards the series; I finally got one end so I´m done and will go happily back to the Elders Races Series that is soooo much better!
SOno contenta di aver finalmente letto questo libro perché ora che é finita posso mollare questa serie che non mi é piaciuta per niente. Il primo libro non terminava per questo, e per il mio piccolo problema ossessivo-compulsivo nei confronti delle serie, ho letto il secondo; ora che ho finalmente avuto "un final!e" posso smettere tranquillamente e tornare alla serie Elders Races che é decisamente molto meglio
SOno contenta di aver finalmente letto questo libro perché ora che é finita posso mollare questa serie che non mi é piaciuta per niente. Il primo libro non terminava per questo, e per il mio piccolo problema ossessivo-compulsivo nei confronti delle serie, ho letto il secondo; ora che ho finalmente avuto "un final!e" posso smettere tranquillamente e tornare alla serie Elders Races che é decisamente molto meglio
April 1, 2014
3.5 stars. much better than the last one. though I'm a bit surprised the series ended rather abruptly. maybe it wasn't as well received as expected ?
July 6, 2014
I love Thea Harrison's Elder Races series, but I did not love these two books and I'm not going to read them again.
August 17, 2014
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2014/02/04/...
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: Out now
How we got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
Having finally reunited, and fought off The Deceiver for now, Mary and Michael race up the Michigan peninsula to meet Astra before police forces catch up with them. But the closer they get, the less Mary is willing to trust a woman who by her own admission will do anything to finish The Deceiver – even if it means killing Michael and Mary to try again in another life. As they face their final battle unsure if they can trust either side, Michael’s loyalties are tested, making him vulnerable just when Mary needs him most.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
E: I read and reviewed the first installment of Harrison’s Game of Shadows duology Rising Darkness with Has last year. We both found it very different from her Elder Races novels but intriguing enough and with a hook so we requested the final installment. If you do not read the first one you will NOT understand this one because it literally starts right after the first installment ended. Luckily enough for me I found the ending of Rising Darkness vivid enough that I was able to slip right back into the world, but I would still recommend a refresher even if you read it before. Falling Light continued to raise the tension and showed the possibility of danger not just from The Deceiver but also from the woman who was supposed to have all the answers. As Mary and Michael continued to work through their fated but not exactly chosen bond the stakes for their future happiness and that of the world increased.
Has: Oh I totally agree, this book is very much like the second half of a much larger story, which is epic in scope and settings. Because it covers, so different past lives and a battle between good and evil over thousands of years. While I had mixed feelings about the first book, I found Falling Light, made more sense with the world-building because it answered a few questions and niggles I had with the first book, Rising Darkness. The clues that Thea Harrison sets up in the first book were expanded and cemented the mythology and the back-story of Michael and Mary with their mission. It felt more cohesive and the action was fast pace from the get-go – which is why I felt this book very much felt like a true second half of a larger book.
E: What I found rather compelling about this second half was the transition or rather addition of relationship challenges. Michael and Mary, even though their souls had been paired through the centuries, were not automatically perfect for a relationship together. They had to work through not just the detritus of the past but also the emotional scarring caused by their 900 year separation. Added to that tension was the underlying sensation that Astra, the woman they were depending on, wasn’t exactly on their side as partners. Her obsession with the Deceiver at the cost of everything else made it a challenge for Mary to relax and regain her skills. I did absolutely love it when they went against Astra’s wishes to help their allies because it kept them anchored to the world.
Has: I really liked the twists and turns which Mary and Michael had to face, especially with those they regarded as their closest ally, Astra who wasn’t as benevolent as she seemed. This added a cool twist to the book, as well a tense dynamic which added suspense to the plot, that kept me guessing about Astra’s true motives. I also felt the romance which developed further in the second half and I liked that there were issues and doubts which both Michael and Mary had to work on because their previous lives was disrupted by the danger that Deceiver had caused them, they’ve never really had time be reunited as a couple, other than a few moments or tragic endings with their previous lives.
I also liked how developments happened with the periphery characters like Nicholas, who worked closely with Astra and Michael but was murdered and is now existing a ghost. I felt that there was huge promise with the way plot twist to his character which was bittersweet and sad.
E: Oh my yes. I would LOVE to see Nicholas’ story because of all the feels! As the inevitable confrontation grew closer, it seemed as if the twists and turns continued to arrive. Both the Deceiver and Astra stepped up their efforts to counter each other. We also found out exactly why Astra was so different from Michael and Mary which clarified several things and made me wonder if the good guys were going to win and exactly how I would define the good guys.
Has: I definitely hope that Thea Harrison will continue this series and concentrate on Nicholas because it there are plot threads which are left open, but you are definitely satisfied and happy with the ending for Michael and Mary. But I would love to see more of this world being explored, because the mythology that is set up is rich and intriguing and while I am not a huge fan of reincarnation plot-lines, this was well done. I would also love to learn about the beings that Mary and Michael came from and hope that if there is a continuation, we will to know more about their world.
I found Falling Light to be much tighter with a plot that answers a lot of the questions that were set up in the first book. Although I have to warn you, you need to read the first book, because in many ways this is the second of a much larger book. The romance between Michael and Mary was fleshed out even more, and there was still tensions and issues which I like. Because with reincarnation plot-lines it can be easy to avoid this and that lessens the impact for the romance but overall, Thea Harrison, has created an interesting world and mythology filled with mystery and I loved the imagery that was used to describe the otherworldly beings disguised as humans. I hope she revisits it again!
I give Falling Light a B-
E: I agree with Has that Falling Light seemed a much tighter story. I know part of that is because the majority of the world-building took place in Rising Darkness. If you were waiting to check out this series I say buy them both and glom because I think reading them back to back will be very rewarding. Despite my fears about the results of the final confrontation I was extremely satisfied by that and the minor epilogue. Looking back the conclusion made total sense given the hints Harrison included along the way but I was so caught up in reading and the uncertainty I didn’t string them together until I could relax and breathe again. While very different in voice and tone from Harrison’s Elder Races series it contained the same attention to detail for the underpinning and the mythology behind her characters. I do hope Harrison treats us to Nicholas and future events in this particular world.
I give Falling Light a B.
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: Out now
How we got this book: ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
Having finally reunited, and fought off The Deceiver for now, Mary and Michael race up the Michigan peninsula to meet Astra before police forces catch up with them. But the closer they get, the less Mary is willing to trust a woman who by her own admission will do anything to finish The Deceiver – even if it means killing Michael and Mary to try again in another life. As they face their final battle unsure if they can trust either side, Michael’s loyalties are tested, making him vulnerable just when Mary needs him most.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
E: I read and reviewed the first installment of Harrison’s Game of Shadows duology Rising Darkness with Has last year. We both found it very different from her Elder Races novels but intriguing enough and with a hook so we requested the final installment. If you do not read the first one you will NOT understand this one because it literally starts right after the first installment ended. Luckily enough for me I found the ending of Rising Darkness vivid enough that I was able to slip right back into the world, but I would still recommend a refresher even if you read it before. Falling Light continued to raise the tension and showed the possibility of danger not just from The Deceiver but also from the woman who was supposed to have all the answers. As Mary and Michael continued to work through their fated but not exactly chosen bond the stakes for their future happiness and that of the world increased.
Has: Oh I totally agree, this book is very much like the second half of a much larger story, which is epic in scope and settings. Because it covers, so different past lives and a battle between good and evil over thousands of years. While I had mixed feelings about the first book, I found Falling Light, made more sense with the world-building because it answered a few questions and niggles I had with the first book, Rising Darkness. The clues that Thea Harrison sets up in the first book were expanded and cemented the mythology and the back-story of Michael and Mary with their mission. It felt more cohesive and the action was fast pace from the get-go – which is why I felt this book very much felt like a true second half of a larger book.
E: What I found rather compelling about this second half was the transition or rather addition of relationship challenges. Michael and Mary, even though their souls had been paired through the centuries, were not automatically perfect for a relationship together. They had to work through not just the detritus of the past but also the emotional scarring caused by their 900 year separation. Added to that tension was the underlying sensation that Astra, the woman they were depending on, wasn’t exactly on their side as partners. Her obsession with the Deceiver at the cost of everything else made it a challenge for Mary to relax and regain her skills. I did absolutely love it when they went against Astra’s wishes to help their allies because it kept them anchored to the world.
Has: I really liked the twists and turns which Mary and Michael had to face, especially with those they regarded as their closest ally, Astra who wasn’t as benevolent as she seemed. This added a cool twist to the book, as well a tense dynamic which added suspense to the plot, that kept me guessing about Astra’s true motives. I also felt the romance which developed further in the second half and I liked that there were issues and doubts which both Michael and Mary had to work on because their previous lives was disrupted by the danger that Deceiver had caused them, they’ve never really had time be reunited as a couple, other than a few moments or tragic endings with their previous lives.
I also liked how developments happened with the periphery characters like Nicholas, who worked closely with Astra and Michael but was murdered and is now existing a ghost. I felt that there was huge promise with the way plot twist to his character which was bittersweet and sad.
E: Oh my yes. I would LOVE to see Nicholas’ story because of all the feels! As the inevitable confrontation grew closer, it seemed as if the twists and turns continued to arrive. Both the Deceiver and Astra stepped up their efforts to counter each other. We also found out exactly why Astra was so different from Michael and Mary which clarified several things and made me wonder if the good guys were going to win and exactly how I would define the good guys.
Has: I definitely hope that Thea Harrison will continue this series and concentrate on Nicholas because it there are plot threads which are left open, but you are definitely satisfied and happy with the ending for Michael and Mary. But I would love to see more of this world being explored, because the mythology that is set up is rich and intriguing and while I am not a huge fan of reincarnation plot-lines, this was well done. I would also love to learn about the beings that Mary and Michael came from and hope that if there is a continuation, we will to know more about their world.
I found Falling Light to be much tighter with a plot that answers a lot of the questions that were set up in the first book. Although I have to warn you, you need to read the first book, because in many ways this is the second of a much larger book. The romance between Michael and Mary was fleshed out even more, and there was still tensions and issues which I like. Because with reincarnation plot-lines it can be easy to avoid this and that lessens the impact for the romance but overall, Thea Harrison, has created an interesting world and mythology filled with mystery and I loved the imagery that was used to describe the otherworldly beings disguised as humans. I hope she revisits it again!
I give Falling Light a B-
E: I agree with Has that Falling Light seemed a much tighter story. I know part of that is because the majority of the world-building took place in Rising Darkness. If you were waiting to check out this series I say buy them both and glom because I think reading them back to back will be very rewarding. Despite my fears about the results of the final confrontation I was extremely satisfied by that and the minor epilogue. Looking back the conclusion made total sense given the hints Harrison included along the way but I was so caught up in reading and the uncertainty I didn’t string them together until I could relax and breathe again. While very different in voice and tone from Harrison’s Elder Races series it contained the same attention to detail for the underpinning and the mythology behind her characters. I do hope Harrison treats us to Nicholas and future events in this particular world.
I give Falling Light a B.
October 20, 2025
Picking up right where the first in the series ended, Mary and Michael are reeling from their near fatal encounter with the Destroyer, the being they have desperately been trying to find a way to kill. Mary, having only days to come to terms with her new existence and her new abilities, finding it easier to accept. Death of friends and loved ones make the hard decisions needed to stop the one responsible easier to make. Regardless, the idea of harming innocence or misguided people doesn’t sit well with her. Michael on the other hand was born to it, molded by it. He is a killing machine and what Mary possesses in compassion and kindness, Michael possesses in ruthlessness and determination. The pair may be fated, may be destined lovers reincarnated many many times before but that doesn’t stop them from being different people.
Regardless, they are stuck with each other. But maybe love and emotion can bloom between them so it’s not all duty or fate. Michael is growing softer; Mary is growing harder. The two are beginning to understand that while they may play their roles, that doesn’t mean they too cannot grow as well.
But with the destroyer hot on their heels, again, lives and the fate of the world is resting on a way to end this menace.
This book was pure action. My problem with that is that it’s not my type of book. Yes Michael and Mary are tender towards each other and there are moment of love and romance but it’s really in actuality 300 some pages of running away from a threat or fighting a threat. Michael is still hot, dangerous and stonewalled and Mary is better are understanding her new life but I don’t think this book gave me anything new from the first in the series.
Regardless, they are stuck with each other. But maybe love and emotion can bloom between them so it’s not all duty or fate. Michael is growing softer; Mary is growing harder. The two are beginning to understand that while they may play their roles, that doesn’t mean they too cannot grow as well.
But with the destroyer hot on their heels, again, lives and the fate of the world is resting on a way to end this menace.
This book was pure action. My problem with that is that it’s not my type of book. Yes Michael and Mary are tender towards each other and there are moment of love and romance but it’s really in actuality 300 some pages of running away from a threat or fighting a threat. Michael is still hot, dangerous and stonewalled and Mary is better are understanding her new life but I don’t think this book gave me anything new from the first in the series.
February 27, 2023
Lots of the same issues from the first book. The aborted tension building thing happened even more in this one. We see trap after trap be built and they just easily avoid all of them, every obstacle ends up just being a minor inconvenience. I like our characters succeeding but it doesn’t feel earned.
Our wise elder character is terrible and unlikable. No redeeming qualities aside from “hates the villian”. This ambiguity can be done well if it’s addressed in the story but instead it’s just brushed off with her being “tired” nah.
Nicholas’s storyline was great would have preferred he be the central character
There’s just not enough substance to make these worth the time
Our wise elder character is terrible and unlikable. No redeeming qualities aside from “hates the villian”. This ambiguity can be done well if it’s addressed in the story but instead it’s just brushed off with her being “tired” nah.
Nicholas’s storyline was great would have preferred he be the central character
There’s just not enough substance to make these worth the time
February 3, 2020
I did not like the beginning of this book very well. A lot of the stuff it was the ending of her first book in the series was the beginning of the second book. I suppose if you hadn’t read the first book for quite a long time before the second book came out it would’ve been OK, but I thought it was very irritating. Other than the beginning, I did think this book was prity good. I did like the storyline, I thought the interaction between the characters was good, and I did like the fact that it had an ending.
September 12, 2018
Oh! I really enjoyed Falling Light. I’m sad this series is only two books. I would love to read Nicholas/Jamie’s story. This story is gripping and suspenseful, with black and white and a generous amount of gray. I loved watching Mary coming into her powers and become more confident. It was interesting to learn more about Astra and realize that she had changed from who she used to be.
Bought as part of audible romance package
Bought as part of audible romance package
January 15, 2019
I liked this book better than the first in this series but neither was as enjoyable as the Elder series. I did not realize this was a duology but it makes sense since the ending was satisfyingly complete for Mary and Michael. Other reviewers did a better job than I could on condensing the plot and describing the characters. The only point that I think is worth reiterating pertains to the lack of Astra and the Deceiver's backstory. There is so much to explore there.
August 4, 2017
Good book!!!
This book is full of some great characters. I especially enjoyed Astra! A lot of adventure, mystery, mysticism, and passion. A few needed corrections ...and it would have had a perfect score. Aww well, editors don't get nearly enough sleep. I recommend this book as well as other works by Thea Harrison!
This book is full of some great characters. I especially enjoyed Astra! A lot of adventure, mystery, mysticism, and passion. A few needed corrections ...and it would have had a perfect score. Aww well, editors don't get nearly enough sleep. I recommend this book as well as other works by Thea Harrison!
April 9, 2018
Falls short of my expectations for any book -but for Thea Harrison this is especially disappointing. I usually love her stuff - but this whole storyline was thin, trivial and I honestly didn’t care who lived or died. The characters were irrationally hot and cold with each other- and their chemistry was awful. So glad this was the last book of the series.
December 17, 2023
This book picks up where Rising Darkness ended with a battle involving Mary, 6 Astra in Michigan. The goal is to defeat the Deciever. Overall, the plot had potential, but the writing was about as filling as boxed hamburger helper. It's a little bit of a love story. It was a little bit of a battle, a little bit of good versus evil, but overall, it was meh
October 30, 2019
Well I'm partial to her dragon series! This was an ok mini series. I love all her books! I just think her dragon series are 10++++++❤. But there is nothing to hate about these either! Thanks for writing for us Thea!!!
November 2, 2019
So I will be honest I hadn’t meant to read this book but I picked it up at the library thinking it sounded familiar and I needed to read. This book was mediocre at best. It just didn’t have the substance that some of the books I’ve been reading lately have had.
June 3, 2017
Are there more books coming?
February 19, 2018
Second in a series
Read the first book first, or none of this will make sense. Fast-moving, complex, imaginative, and romantic in a sort of exhausted way.
Read the first book first, or none of this will make sense. Fast-moving, complex, imaginative, and romantic in a sort of exhausted way.
February 28, 2018
It was much better than the first book, Rising Darkness (A Game of Shadows, #1).
June 8, 2018
Better than book 1 but the interaction between the main characters still felt forced and repetitive.
July 29, 2018
Extra 1/2 star
Contemplated not reading this one but I figured, *shrug* it's just one more book.
Eh. Still didn't care about the characters.
Contemplated not reading this one but I figured, *shrug* it's just one more book.
Eh. Still didn't care about the characters.
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