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Night Owl #3
After Dark
In the final novel of the Night Owl Trilogy from bestselling author M. Pierce, can a passion that has withstood many ordeals become a love strong enough to last a lifetime?Matt Sky is trying to return to normal, having faked his death and come back to life. He and Hannah move back in together, and Matt attempts to put his demons to rest as they strive to grow their relationship into something durable and honest. But as the two become more and more entangled, and the heat between them intensifies in all the best possible ways, Matt's desire for Hannah ignites cravings he has kept at bay for a long, long time...Hannah finally has the life she's always she's pursuing her career as a literary agent at Granite Wing Agency, she is writing her first novel, and she is living with her hot, passionate lover. But as Matt and Hannah explore a new intimacy, Hannah finds that there are parts of Matt-dark, wild, uncontrollable parts-that he has yet to show her...that he has yet to show anyone...Under the surface of Matt and Hannah's domestic bliss, deeply buried secrets burn, and all of a sudden, the least foreseen obstacle threatens to shatter everything they've worked so hard for.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2015
57 people are currently reading
6153 people want to read
About the author
M. Pierce
21 books2,326 followers
Thanks for visiting my Goodreads author page. I'm an avid reader and bestselling author living in Colorado. You can find my book Night Owl at various retailers and you can read about my upcoming books at http://mpiercefiction.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
March 5, 2015
Here we are, at the end of the Night Owl Trilogy. In just twenty days, I get to share this book with all of you. I couldn't be more proud. I won't wax sentimental here, but let me say THANK YOU to everyone writing early reviews. From the one stars to the five, I cherish your opinions. Thank you so much for reading.
April 1, 2015
*****3.5 STARS*****
{BR with Sharon}
I'm sad that this story has now come to an end, and that I didn't end up loving it as well. The first book was excellent!! Matt was super hot, weird, and a dirty talker. I loved that the man walked his pet bunny around town on a leash! The sex between Matt and Hannah was "ovaries exploding" HOT!! There were a few panty melting scenes in this last installment, but I felt there wasn't enough. One sexy time scene was just odd and didn't work for me at all.
Hannah and Matt seem to be at odds for most of the story. They were almost never on the same wave length and after a while that just got on my nerves. There also seemed to be endless drama from multiple parties.
Even though the plot grated on me, I did still love Matt. The ending was sweet, but I was hoping for a little more insight into Matt and Hannah's future. Overall it wasn't terrible, but it didn't knock my socks off either.
{BR with Sharon}
I'm sad that this story has now come to an end, and that I didn't end up loving it as well. The first book was excellent!! Matt was super hot, weird, and a dirty talker. I loved that the man walked his pet bunny around town on a leash! The sex between Matt and Hannah was "ovaries exploding" HOT!! There were a few panty melting scenes in this last installment, but I felt there wasn't enough. One sexy time scene was just odd and didn't work for me at all.
Hannah and Matt seem to be at odds for most of the story. They were almost never on the same wave length and after a while that just got on my nerves. There also seemed to be endless drama from multiple parties.
Even though the plot grated on me, I did still love Matt. The ending was sweet, but I was hoping for a little more insight into Matt and Hannah's future. Overall it wasn't terrible, but it didn't knock my socks off either.
April 1, 2015
4.5 I want it with you star
What is love, if not the power to destroy
I have a love/hate relation with the Night Owl trilogy. If you read my review for Night Owl and Last Light, you will see I had a problem with the two books and the way they made me feel. In Night Owl, Matt drove me mad and crazy. I had a lot of questions and him being an extreme asshole I didn't like him a lot.
But I stuck to it and Last Light was a real challenge. I didn't know what was better: keep reading or DNF the book. Nothing happened like I thought or wanted. I didn't understand Hannah's love for Matt and him... he was more than ever a bastard! But what saved the book for me, was the emotions I felt throughout my read. I was completely insane, wanted to throw my kindle and for me when a book left you feeling something even negative, and because the end gives me hope, I decided I had to wait until After Dark to see if finally I would have more info on Matt, on what I thought there was for him.
I was really anxious and nervous to start After Dark but if you've seen my rating and my different status, you already know that I completely love the book! It was the PERFECT ending for them!
Matt and Hannah are now together facing their new life and what it being a couple entails. And believe me when I say, it's a real challenge for them!
Their main problem has always been the communication. Matt is secretive but here he tries so hard to open up . His session with his shrink helps him a lot and for Hannah he's ready to be better. He really makes an effort in confiding himself. At the beginning, he's not completely honest for example with his sexual fantasies but he knows he will get them there in time.
Hannah annoyed me at the beginning, for me she didn't really evolve. She kept judging him a lot instead of trying to understand him or trying to find a way to reach to him. She knows Matt has problems with expressing what he feels and she could have been more understanding in some situation. She also kept lying to him and hiding him because she feared Matt's reaction and I wasn't happy about it.
"Be honest. About things that happen, about how you feel. Small lies and secrecy may not seem like a big deal but you know water gets into rocks, freezes..."
Of course, they was a lot of fight between them but here again when they fight I see so much growth because as much as they fought, NEVER in a million time their love was at stack. No matter what, their trust each other. Matt was cute because he always find a way to soften Hannah's mood and she did the same.
When there's a lot of fight, what do you think there's? Make up sex? Yes!! And there too, there was a lot of HOT make up sex! Remember kinky Matt from Night Owl? He's back!! At first it's kinda soft. Matt has some desires and he's not sure Hannah will be ok with his most twisted/disturbing sexual desires. They will have to takes baby steps to discover a new side in their relation. And what was beautiful was how Hannah was willing to try because she loves him and most importantly she trusts him!
After Dark touched me in more ways then one. Matt and Hannah are everything a couple should be. They love each other so much, they trust each other, they are independent people who can rely on each other. They listen and respect each other. They always find a way back to each other when something is wrong.
If you had some issues with Matt in the first books like me, you will absolutely ADORE him here. He was still Matt but I understood him better, I was more in sync with his thought and the way he acted.
It was fun to see how Matt acted with Hannah but she didn't feared to do the same with him. I think my fav' scene was
You discover a lot on Matt and how he really is. Prepare some tissues because if you are anything like me the last 20 % will be very emotional. I cried so much because I was sad, because I was happy, because I was mad, because I was relieved.
After Dark is the perfect balance to end Matt and Hanna's story. A book about love and what to do to keep it, to be better for the one you love, to be closer from the one you love, to show you that nothing is perfect but when you put yourself at risk, there's always someone there waiting for you, to understand you, to simply be there for you
~ARC provided by publisher for an honest review~
What is love, if not the power to destroy
I have a love/hate relation with the Night Owl trilogy. If you read my review for Night Owl and Last Light, you will see I had a problem with the two books and the way they made me feel. In Night Owl, Matt drove me mad and crazy. I had a lot of questions and him being an extreme asshole I didn't like him a lot.
But I stuck to it and Last Light was a real challenge. I didn't know what was better: keep reading or DNF the book. Nothing happened like I thought or wanted. I didn't understand Hannah's love for Matt and him... he was more than ever a bastard! But what saved the book for me, was the emotions I felt throughout my read. I was completely insane, wanted to throw my kindle and for me when a book left you feeling something even negative, and because the end gives me hope, I decided I had to wait until After Dark to see if finally I would have more info on Matt, on what I thought there was for him.
I was really anxious and nervous to start After Dark but if you've seen my rating and my different status, you already know that I completely love the book! It was the PERFECT ending for them!
Matt and Hannah are now together facing their new life and what it being a couple entails. And believe me when I say, it's a real challenge for them!
Their main problem has always been the communication. Matt is secretive but here he tries so hard to open up . His session with his shrink helps him a lot and for Hannah he's ready to be better. He really makes an effort in confiding himself. At the beginning, he's not completely honest for example with his sexual fantasies but he knows he will get them there in time.
Hannah annoyed me at the beginning, for me she didn't really evolve. She kept judging him a lot instead of trying to understand him or trying to find a way to reach to him. She knows Matt has problems with expressing what he feels and she could have been more understanding in some situation. She also kept lying to him and hiding him because she feared Matt's reaction and I wasn't happy about it.
"Be honest. About things that happen, about how you feel. Small lies and secrecy may not seem like a big deal but you know water gets into rocks, freezes..."
Of course, they was a lot of fight between them but here again when they fight I see so much growth because as much as they fought, NEVER in a million time their love was at stack. No matter what, their trust each other. Matt was cute because he always find a way to soften Hannah's mood and she did the same.
When there's a lot of fight, what do you think there's? Make up sex? Yes!! And there too, there was a lot of HOT make up sex! Remember kinky Matt from Night Owl? He's back!! At first it's kinda soft. Matt has some desires and he's not sure Hannah will be ok with his most twisted/disturbing sexual desires. They will have to takes baby steps to discover a new side in their relation. And what was beautiful was how Hannah was willing to try because she loves him and most importantly she trusts him!
After Dark touched me in more ways then one. Matt and Hannah are everything a couple should be. They love each other so much, they trust each other, they are independent people who can rely on each other. They listen and respect each other. They always find a way back to each other when something is wrong.
If you had some issues with Matt in the first books like me, you will absolutely ADORE him here. He was still Matt but I understood him better, I was more in sync with his thought and the way he acted.
It was fun to see how Matt acted with Hannah but she didn't feared to do the same with him. I think my fav' scene was
You discover a lot on Matt and how he really is. Prepare some tissues because if you are anything like me the last 20 % will be very emotional. I cried so much because I was sad, because I was happy, because I was mad, because I was relieved.
After Dark is the perfect balance to end Matt and Hanna's story. A book about love and what to do to keep it, to be better for the one you love, to be closer from the one you love, to show you that nothing is perfect but when you put yourself at risk, there's always someone there waiting for you, to understand you, to simply be there for you
~ARC provided by publisher for an honest review~
May 3, 2015
Release day Giveaway! -> http://readingintheredroom.com/2015/0...
The perfect ending ...
Matt and Hannah really are one of my very favorite fictional couples. Their dynamic is fantastic ... they get to my heart every damn time! And this final book in the series really brings the whole relationship full circle. I was very pleased with how things progressed ... and then regressed ... and then progressed again. There is always that wonderful push/pull happening in the story. Matt is my ultimate tragic artist. He is so introverted at times ... but I just love how Hannah is able to reach into his world & grab his attention.
This final book is not an easy journey. And I was very skeptical about how the author would keep my attention on the same couple for another book ... I was worried that this story would be dragged out to long ... but my fears were unnecessary. The plot line is nothing as I would have expected and never once was I bored or hoping to get to the end ... in fact the ending came all too quickly & I was left feeling happy/sad. Happy because it was fantastic ... sad that it was over.
I loved my time with this series!
Reading order:
The perfect ending ...
Matt and Hannah really are one of my very favorite fictional couples. Their dynamic is fantastic ... they get to my heart every damn time! And this final book in the series really brings the whole relationship full circle. I was very pleased with how things progressed ... and then regressed ... and then progressed again. There is always that wonderful push/pull happening in the story. Matt is my ultimate tragic artist. He is so introverted at times ... but I just love how Hannah is able to reach into his world & grab his attention.
This final book is not an easy journey. And I was very skeptical about how the author would keep my attention on the same couple for another book ... I was worried that this story would be dragged out to long ... but my fears were unnecessary. The plot line is nothing as I would have expected and never once was I bored or hoping to get to the end ... in fact the ending came all too quickly & I was left feeling happy/sad. Happy because it was fantastic ... sad that it was over.
I loved my time with this series!
Reading order:
October 2, 2015
Matt and Hannah are in the midst of establishing a real relationship, now that the public knows about him faking his death. Matt and Hannah have overcome a lot in the last year. The lies and the secrets have faded, but the past doesn’t stay hidden away for long. But it’s not the past that has these two running scared; it’s their future.
Matt can no longer hide from the world and his relationship with Hannah can’t be unwritten now that everyone knows the truth of Night Owl... but the aspects of their private life during Last Light could become a game changer if published. The truth, cloaked in fiction might not be enough to save them from the public’s reaction. But Matt isn’t the only one with a bug to write a story.... their story.
Okay so let me just say that I loved book one. Like, over the top, LOVE. Book two, well that one sort of felt so-so. Hannah and Matt pissed me off so much in book two, the whole “death” thing sort of threw the story off for me and I was so frustrated with the way these two behaved. It wasn’t until they came back together towards the end that things felt right again. So going into book three, I was excited but still a little worried.
I had absolutely no reason to worry.
Super sexy but with depth to the story. It's like the best parts from one and two had a baby. Sort of drooling over Matthew Sky right now.
I found Hannah endearing for most of this book. I loved how she struggled with keeping calm when Matt was a bit manic and I loved her to pieces at the end when she just didn’t back down or give up.
And our Matthew? Our poor broken golden boy. I could not get enough. He was over the top possessive both in his actions and his thoughts when it came to Hannah. It broke my heart when he’d see the depth of his happiness and become closed off and guarded at his fear of losing it all. I wanted to smother him in hugs and sit on his face all at the same time!
Now, I know that Seth and Chrissy also play a role in this story. For Chrissy, I wanted to smack her 99.9% of the time. And Seth... I think my feelings on Seth mirrored Matt’s more so than Hannah’s. I was torn apart in book two and was not willing to give this guy an inch come book three. But I have to say these two characters (along with Nate Sky) helped drive this story into new places. And those places turned out to be fantastic elements of this story.
M. Pierce has done an outstanding job with creating this series. In the midst of a ton of books being published, this author grabbed our attention and stood out. That it itself is a huge accomplishment to be had... but being able to draw off that success and continue, creating a story that surpasses the first, is no small thing. This installment is easily my favorite of the three books.
NetGallery: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/sho...
Matt can no longer hide from the world and his relationship with Hannah can’t be unwritten now that everyone knows the truth of Night Owl... but the aspects of their private life during Last Light could become a game changer if published. The truth, cloaked in fiction might not be enough to save them from the public’s reaction. But Matt isn’t the only one with a bug to write a story.... their story.
Okay so let me just say that I loved book one. Like, over the top, LOVE. Book two, well that one sort of felt so-so. Hannah and Matt pissed me off so much in book two, the whole “death” thing sort of threw the story off for me and I was so frustrated with the way these two behaved. It wasn’t until they came back together towards the end that things felt right again. So going into book three, I was excited but still a little worried.
I had absolutely no reason to worry.
Super sexy but with depth to the story. It's like the best parts from one and two had a baby. Sort of drooling over Matthew Sky right now.
I found Hannah endearing for most of this book. I loved how she struggled with keeping calm when Matt was a bit manic and I loved her to pieces at the end when she just didn’t back down or give up.
And our Matthew? Our poor broken golden boy. I could not get enough. He was over the top possessive both in his actions and his thoughts when it came to Hannah. It broke my heart when he’d see the depth of his happiness and become closed off and guarded at his fear of losing it all. I wanted to smother him in hugs and sit on his face all at the same time!
Now, I know that Seth and Chrissy also play a role in this story. For Chrissy, I wanted to smack her 99.9% of the time. And Seth... I think my feelings on Seth mirrored Matt’s more so than Hannah’s. I was torn apart in book two and was not willing to give this guy an inch come book three. But I have to say these two characters (along with Nate Sky) helped drive this story into new places. And those places turned out to be fantastic elements of this story.
M. Pierce has done an outstanding job with creating this series. In the midst of a ton of books being published, this author grabbed our attention and stood out. That it itself is a huge accomplishment to be had... but being able to draw off that success and continue, creating a story that surpasses the first, is no small thing. This installment is easily my favorite of the three books.
NetGallery: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/sho...
March 1, 2015
3.5 - 3.75 thanks for the misery, it's been brilliant stars.
It kills me to rate anything in the Night Owl trilogy at anything less than five stars, but in terms of sheer reading enjoyment, with some exceptions, this one didn't quite hit the dizzying heights of the other two books for me. But I didn't dislike it. I can only apologise for the confused mess that is this review, but it kind of reflects my state of mind after reading this and pondering on it for a week.
The story picks up immediately after the end of Last Light, where Hannah had just shocked the bejezus out of Matt with her whispered proposal in his ear just as they're about to go on live television and explain his miraculous return from the dead.
His reaction was a bit of a surprise, but then Matt has never been a character who does what you expect him to, that's part of his unique charm. That I could've lived with. What his reaction did do though was set off a cyclical chain of bickering between Matt and Hannah that we seemed stuck in for most of this book. He was miffed with her, she was miffed because he was miffed (or vice versa) and they'd both be sulking. Some of the things they argued about left me a little bewildered, but other issues they disagreed on were fundamental differences of the magnitude that can make or break any relationship, let alone one where one party is highly strung and prone to bouts of severe depression. The issue was for me was, the longer this went on, the less confident I felt in them as a couple. And after all that we've been through with them in Night Owl and Last Light, that's pretty huge.
We already know that Matt can lie and deceive easily without compunction. Even though we got his point of view, at times, I wasn't completely convinced whether he was telling us the truth or what he wanted to believe:
He's such a complicated character though, for at the same time as he's behaving badly, he's ferociously possessive and as obsessed with Hannah's mind and her body as ever. One of the things that this trilogy has always excelled at is expressing sexual chemistry with scorching hot smut and a dirty mouth and this instalment only builds on that. Matt's sexual appetite is darker than ever which is great news for smut fans. His therapist encourages him to write down his deepest and darkest sexual desires and of course they all centre around Hannah; his desire for her to submit to him, her humiliation amplifying his passion. And we get all of the details. Yes, it makes for uncomfortable reading at times as sexually, he's a deviant, but jeeezus it's hawt.
I really felt for Hannah in this book. Not only is Matt's behaviour causing her anxiety, but she's also feeling the pressure as Matt's shield, the person everyone directs their ire at because Matt is considered to be too fragile to face all of that harsh criticism. She's pulled in different directions by her family, Matt's agent, Matt's family and Matt's exes, all of whom want in some way to get to Matt through her. I love the way Hannah fights back, doing what she can to keep everyone happy, but at the same time, not just rolling over and taking it. She thinks about what she wants and goes after it. Oh, and she buys a whip...nuff said ;-)
If I thought the first half of the story made for challenging reading, then things took a heartbreaking turn in the second. I was absolutely gutted, which is a mark of great writing and a good story, but boy, it made me feel miserable (and snappy with everyone around me, sorry about that) and at that point, I just couldn't see how these two could ever have a happily ever after. As this trilogy has been so original and the prose so artfully written, I did wonder briefly whether I was being naive expecting a HEA, because as we know, life's not always like that. I'm pretty certain that was deliberate and that the author was playing with us as Matt too seems scared of happiness, believing that in some sort of twisted karma, all happiness has a cost and the price is unhappiness:
As in Last Light, there is the story within the story going on here, with Matt compelled to share his feelings through his art. Hannah joins him, both of them being unflinchingly honest in their accounts. This really was a stroke of genius by the author as it brought their story to a full circle, back to how they met online in Night Owl. Through their writing, they better understand each other, but also, we get to feel that belly tingling romance and unshakeable love that even without all of that delicious smut would be an absolute joy to read:
Yup, I was sobbing, again, albeit happy tears that time.
So yes, I'm sorry this review is all over the place, but my feelings for this, the third book in this trilogy are all over the place too. I loved parts of it, I adored the writing, but other parts I didn't love so much. That said, I recommend this trilogy to everyone, it's up there among my top fave reads ever. I can't wait to read what this author comes up with next.
**I received an arc from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest opinion**
It kills me to rate anything in the Night Owl trilogy at anything less than five stars, but in terms of sheer reading enjoyment, with some exceptions, this one didn't quite hit the dizzying heights of the other two books for me. But I didn't dislike it. I can only apologise for the confused mess that is this review, but it kind of reflects my state of mind after reading this and pondering on it for a week.
The story picks up immediately after the end of Last Light, where Hannah had just shocked the bejezus out of Matt with her whispered proposal in his ear just as they're about to go on live television and explain his miraculous return from the dead.
His reaction was a bit of a surprise, but then Matt has never been a character who does what you expect him to, that's part of his unique charm. That I could've lived with. What his reaction did do though was set off a cyclical chain of bickering between Matt and Hannah that we seemed stuck in for most of this book. He was miffed with her, she was miffed because he was miffed (or vice versa) and they'd both be sulking. Some of the things they argued about left me a little bewildered, but other issues they disagreed on were fundamental differences of the magnitude that can make or break any relationship, let alone one where one party is highly strung and prone to bouts of severe depression. The issue was for me was, the longer this went on, the less confident I felt in them as a couple. And after all that we've been through with them in Night Owl and Last Light, that's pretty huge.
We already know that Matt can lie and deceive easily without compunction. Even though we got his point of view, at times, I wasn't completely convinced whether he was telling us the truth or what he wanted to believe:
"I realized that no amount of freedom was worth a life without Hannah"
He's such a complicated character though, for at the same time as he's behaving badly, he's ferociously possessive and as obsessed with Hannah's mind and her body as ever. One of the things that this trilogy has always excelled at is expressing sexual chemistry with scorching hot smut and a dirty mouth and this instalment only builds on that. Matt's sexual appetite is darker than ever which is great news for smut fans. His therapist encourages him to write down his deepest and darkest sexual desires and of course they all centre around Hannah; his desire for her to submit to him, her humiliation amplifying his passion. And we get all of the details. Yes, it makes for uncomfortable reading at times as sexually, he's a deviant, but jeeezus it's hawt.
She is like the little bird I call her. Strong and delicate. I'm out of my depth.
I really felt for Hannah in this book. Not only is Matt's behaviour causing her anxiety, but she's also feeling the pressure as Matt's shield, the person everyone directs their ire at because Matt is considered to be too fragile to face all of that harsh criticism. She's pulled in different directions by her family, Matt's agent, Matt's family and Matt's exes, all of whom want in some way to get to Matt through her. I love the way Hannah fights back, doing what she can to keep everyone happy, but at the same time, not just rolling over and taking it. She thinks about what she wants and goes after it. Oh, and she buys a whip...nuff said ;-)
He fucked me with that stiff braided cord - he gave me no choice but to come - and when I did, he took his turn, casting away the whip and entering me, driving us together into bliss.
If I thought the first half of the story made for challenging reading, then things took a heartbreaking turn in the second. I was absolutely gutted, which is a mark of great writing and a good story, but boy, it made me feel miserable (and snappy with everyone around me, sorry about that) and at that point, I just couldn't see how these two could ever have a happily ever after. As this trilogy has been so original and the prose so artfully written, I did wonder briefly whether I was being naive expecting a HEA, because as we know, life's not always like that. I'm pretty certain that was deliberate and that the author was playing with us as Matt too seems scared of happiness, believing that in some sort of twisted karma, all happiness has a cost and the price is unhappiness:
Too much happiness...is a dangerous thing.
As in Last Light, there is the story within the story going on here, with Matt compelled to share his feelings through his art. Hannah joins him, both of them being unflinchingly honest in their accounts. This really was a stroke of genius by the author as it brought their story to a full circle, back to how they met online in Night Owl. Through their writing, they better understand each other, but also, we get to feel that belly tingling romance and unshakeable love that even without all of that delicious smut would be an absolute joy to read:
I have written two full novels about you, and now I understand that no novel will hold you. My heart can barely hold you. All that I feel for you.
Yup, I was sobbing, again, albeit happy tears that time.
So yes, I'm sorry this review is all over the place, but my feelings for this, the third book in this trilogy are all over the place too. I loved parts of it, I adored the writing, but other parts I didn't love so much. That said, I recommend this trilogy to everyone, it's up there among my top fave reads ever. I can't wait to read what this author comes up with next.
**I received an arc from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest opinion**
April 5, 2015
The final book in the Night Owl series has Hannah and Matt trying to get their life back on track...back to their type of normal. The problem is that Matt has never quite followed that route.
I should have known from the first book that this book wouldn't follow any predictable patterns. Sadly to say, I did have certain expectations. I assumed Matt and Hannah would have their act together. I assumed Matt and Hannah would get along but you know what they say when you assume. At least I definitely didn't assume any more crazy events would happen!
Matt definitely lets everything out...way more than I expected. Like I said, I thought we already knew Matt's secrets but I was wrong.
Hannah, on the other hand, surprised me. I'm not sure why since she has never not done what Matt wanted. I always felt like they had a one sided relationship and I still feel that way. The only difference is that she does stand up for herself ~a little~ towards the end.
I was in no way, shape or form ready for what happened. I really felt like Matt did ~shocked~ and I was really scared about what he might do. I loved how Hannah handled things though...and thank goodness as always for Nate. I just love him.
One of the story lines was unresolved This is the sort of thing that I will forever associate with this book. :(
The ending pretty much makes the story. I love where they ended up..."I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were(I can't tell you), after dark."
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Shush. Your bird giggles aren’t helping."
♥ “We have to be careful.”
“What?”
He shook his head. “We could be happy. Too happy.”
“Too happy?” I frowned.
♥ “You look fine on that”—my mouth twitched—“on that fence.”
♥ “Ice cream.” Hannah chuckled. “That’s a thing with you Skys, huh?"
♥ "See? I can be Matt Sky, too. I can make unilateral decisions like a dick.”
♥ " This happiness, I thought. Here, now, always.
This happiness, no matter the cost."
♥ "My heart can barely hold you."
♥ "Stop trying to turn him into Heathcliff."
♥ "Nap time: a Sky family tragedy."
♦ BR w/Patty!
I should have known from the first book that this book wouldn't follow any predictable patterns. Sadly to say, I did have certain expectations. I assumed Matt and Hannah would have their act together. I assumed Matt and Hannah would get along but you know what they say when you assume. At least I definitely didn't assume any more crazy events would happen!
Matt definitely lets everything out...way more than I expected. Like I said, I thought we already knew Matt's secrets but I was wrong.
Hannah, on the other hand, surprised me. I'm not sure why since she has never not done what Matt wanted. I always felt like they had a one sided relationship and I still feel that way. The only difference is that she does stand up for herself ~a little~ towards the end.
I was in no way, shape or form ready for what happened. I really felt like Matt did ~shocked~ and I was really scared about what he might do. I loved how Hannah handled things though...and thank goodness as always for Nate. I just love him.
One of the story lines was unresolved This is the sort of thing that I will forever associate with this book. :(
The ending pretty much makes the story. I love where they ended up..."I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Shush. Your bird giggles aren’t helping."
♥ “We have to be careful.”
“What?”
He shook his head. “We could be happy. Too happy.”
“Too happy?” I frowned.
♥ “You look fine on that”—my mouth twitched—“on that fence.”
♥ “Ice cream.” Hannah chuckled. “That’s a thing with you Skys, huh?"
♥ "See? I can be Matt Sky, too. I can make unilateral decisions like a dick.”
♥ " This happiness, I thought. Here, now, always.
This happiness, no matter the cost."
♥ "My heart can barely hold you."
♥ "Stop trying to turn him into Heathcliff."
♥ "Nap time: a Sky family tragedy."
♦ BR w/Patty!
November 1, 2015
5 Little Bird stars
Can you tell I was excited when I finished the book?
Blurbs, I hate them. I don’t read them. I don’t want to be swayed one way or another, or have preconceived notions and expectations of a book whether an author or story is familiar to me or not. As tempted as I was when it came to the Night Owl trilogy I stayed away, each installment fresh-too fresh between book one and book two. That said, expectations after book one Night Owl were way too high and quite frankly there was no way on God’s green Earth any installments could impact the reading community the way Night Owl did. The brilliance that is M. Pierce set it up that way. A true, real trilogy tells a different story in each installment. Instead of the outline of a novel it is broken into thirds. We had the shock in awe of Night Owl, the emotional investment in Last Light, and now we get the conclusion that is After Dark.
I also loathe second and third installments when not done correctly. You can always tell when an author had zero intention or bad intentions of a trilogy, it can’t be hidden, the story is too predictable. The second drawn out installment contributes minimally to the story line and the third which usually is a sappy corny finalization wrap up of the story. For the Night Owl trilogy it really is a shame, the expectation of each book surpassing the first when the brilliance is sitting right there in front of the reader to savor every.single.word. Each installment I found myself trying to figure it out, trying to make sense of the crazy that is Matt Sky. I literally would have to tell myself to just read and enjoy. Each book had a purpose to the story that is Matt and Hannah, it is Matt and Hannah.
Not one love story comes without scars, none are perfect. There is dirt, grime, ugliness. When we first meet someone there is the exhilaration of the newness, getting to know each other, the sexiness of it all. Then the “naked” truth happens. We see each other without the blinders, we get faced with the realization that is reality and have to make a decision… is it all worth it? Then even the ending the so called “happily ever after” is different to each of us. Each story is different. This is how I interpreted the Night Owl trilogy.
After Dark is not Night Owl, nor does it have the drama of book two, Last Light. If you’re looking for drama and only highs and lows then the Night Owl trilogy is not for you, it does not satisfy the guilty pleasure or the cheap thrills. On the contrary it fulfills the reader’s heart of all that is Matt and Hannah. There is some heart break, there are some odd moments- those that occur when couples aren't sure if their comfortability is crossing the line or not. The awkwardness at times transcends off the page. The story begins where we left Matt & Hannah in Last Light, the “Marry Me”. I was so worried the entire story would be based on that one soul bearing line. How could I doubt M.? Yes, it is discussed and worked through which becomes a precursor to the meat of the story. How do couples work through issues? We watch the couple evolve and as much as I despise stories that are too realistic this story kept me fully vested. I was never bored but honestly at one point I thought O.K. where is this going but not in a bad way. By the time I realized I was questioning this story line it was almost over. How can the author go from drama to relatively drama free zone without any transcendence? The story would have felt way too rushed and the reader would have felt robbed if he had. I found myself irritated with Matt and annoyed with Hannah, literally yelling at the book “Matt, you big douche” and “Hannah you nagging wench”. Only once though. As in any relationship we are exposed to the not so pretty and perfect side of a couple.
M. wrote this story so flawlessly. The reader literally feels every pain, every laugh, and every thought. Why am I surprised, he did this with the entire series. I felt like I was observing, witnessing and feeling the most private of moments. There was a point I, as a reader, felt like I missed the intensity that is Matt. I feel like his intensity, his insanity wasn’t there until the end. Same with Hannah, I felt like I was missing her emotional self. Isn’t this what happens in relationships though? The more time spent together the more comfortable and secure they are with each other? It would be impossible to keep up that level of intensity and there are times that arise for both Matt and Hannah throughout the story where they can choose to react the “old” way or not. They complement each other when needed, when required, when necessary, when the other just can’t find their way back on their own.
There are some steamy moments in After Dark but it seems like the author pulled back as they were not as prevalent and not as frequent. Yes this also happens as relationships progress and true, sex scenes wouldn't “fit” in some of the story. When they did occur it felt like the author was holding back. The absence of intensity was more than intentional, like M was making a statement.
M.’s writing doesn't fall short of brilliance. The way his words flow onto the page, construct a sentence, instill feelings. I said it before and I’ll say it again, M is one of those authors I will read and feel privileged to read every line he ever writes. What is real what isn't real? Is this story somewhat autobiographical? Is M a woman or a man? Is there really a Hannah? I’m here to say NONE of it matters. The marketing campaign intertwined in and outside of the story, doesn't matter one tiny bit. Not only has this author more than proven himself but he did what he had to do to get you, the reader, to read his story. Well played M, well played.
I will truly miss the craziness and intensity that is Matt & Hannah!
Can you tell I was excited when I finished the book?
Blurbs, I hate them. I don’t read them. I don’t want to be swayed one way or another, or have preconceived notions and expectations of a book whether an author or story is familiar to me or not. As tempted as I was when it came to the Night Owl trilogy I stayed away, each installment fresh-too fresh between book one and book two. That said, expectations after book one Night Owl were way too high and quite frankly there was no way on God’s green Earth any installments could impact the reading community the way Night Owl did. The brilliance that is M. Pierce set it up that way. A true, real trilogy tells a different story in each installment. Instead of the outline of a novel it is broken into thirds. We had the shock in awe of Night Owl, the emotional investment in Last Light, and now we get the conclusion that is After Dark.
I also loathe second and third installments when not done correctly. You can always tell when an author had zero intention or bad intentions of a trilogy, it can’t be hidden, the story is too predictable. The second drawn out installment contributes minimally to the story line and the third which usually is a sappy corny finalization wrap up of the story. For the Night Owl trilogy it really is a shame, the expectation of each book surpassing the first when the brilliance is sitting right there in front of the reader to savor every.single.word. Each installment I found myself trying to figure it out, trying to make sense of the crazy that is Matt Sky. I literally would have to tell myself to just read and enjoy. Each book had a purpose to the story that is Matt and Hannah, it is Matt and Hannah.
Not one love story comes without scars, none are perfect. There is dirt, grime, ugliness. When we first meet someone there is the exhilaration of the newness, getting to know each other, the sexiness of it all. Then the “naked” truth happens. We see each other without the blinders, we get faced with the realization that is reality and have to make a decision… is it all worth it? Then even the ending the so called “happily ever after” is different to each of us. Each story is different. This is how I interpreted the Night Owl trilogy.
After Dark is not Night Owl, nor does it have the drama of book two, Last Light. If you’re looking for drama and only highs and lows then the Night Owl trilogy is not for you, it does not satisfy the guilty pleasure or the cheap thrills. On the contrary it fulfills the reader’s heart of all that is Matt and Hannah. There is some heart break, there are some odd moments- those that occur when couples aren't sure if their comfortability is crossing the line or not. The awkwardness at times transcends off the page. The story begins where we left Matt & Hannah in Last Light, the “Marry Me”. I was so worried the entire story would be based on that one soul bearing line. How could I doubt M.? Yes, it is discussed and worked through which becomes a precursor to the meat of the story. How do couples work through issues? We watch the couple evolve and as much as I despise stories that are too realistic this story kept me fully vested. I was never bored but honestly at one point I thought O.K. where is this going but not in a bad way. By the time I realized I was questioning this story line it was almost over. How can the author go from drama to relatively drama free zone without any transcendence? The story would have felt way too rushed and the reader would have felt robbed if he had. I found myself irritated with Matt and annoyed with Hannah, literally yelling at the book “Matt, you big douche” and “Hannah you nagging wench”. Only once though. As in any relationship we are exposed to the not so pretty and perfect side of a couple.
M. wrote this story so flawlessly. The reader literally feels every pain, every laugh, and every thought. Why am I surprised, he did this with the entire series. I felt like I was observing, witnessing and feeling the most private of moments. There was a point I, as a reader, felt like I missed the intensity that is Matt. I feel like his intensity, his insanity wasn’t there until the end. Same with Hannah, I felt like I was missing her emotional self. Isn’t this what happens in relationships though? The more time spent together the more comfortable and secure they are with each other? It would be impossible to keep up that level of intensity and there are times that arise for both Matt and Hannah throughout the story where they can choose to react the “old” way or not. They complement each other when needed, when required, when necessary, when the other just can’t find their way back on their own.
There are some steamy moments in After Dark but it seems like the author pulled back as they were not as prevalent and not as frequent. Yes this also happens as relationships progress and true, sex scenes wouldn't “fit” in some of the story. When they did occur it felt like the author was holding back. The absence of intensity was more than intentional, like M was making a statement.
M.’s writing doesn't fall short of brilliance. The way his words flow onto the page, construct a sentence, instill feelings. I said it before and I’ll say it again, M is one of those authors I will read and feel privileged to read every line he ever writes. What is real what isn't real? Is this story somewhat autobiographical? Is M a woman or a man? Is there really a Hannah? I’m here to say NONE of it matters. The marketing campaign intertwined in and outside of the story, doesn't matter one tiny bit. Not only has this author more than proven himself but he did what he had to do to get you, the reader, to read his story. Well played M, well played.
I will truly miss the craziness and intensity that is Matt & Hannah!
March 23, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange of honest review
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If you must know I was absolutely addicted to Night Owl by M. Pierce and I couldn't get enough of Matt Sky. And the way M. Pierce has written this seductive and tantalizing trilogy has readers begging for more. I must say this last installment, After Dark was a PERFECT conclusion to this trilogy. And what a brilliant and satisfying ending!!
With the truth of Matt faking his death exposed, Hannah and Matt must face one of their biggest challenge in their relationship: What the future holds for them. With all the secrets and lies exposed, the real test for this couple was how they will establish a healthy relationship as a couple.The beauty of this book was the raw aspect of their relationship as they are both showcase their vulnerability. Matt and Hannah's struggle with their relationship was an honest portrayal of a real couple learning how to communicate to each other. It was touching, emotional and raw. M. Pierce did an amazing job showcasing the growth and maturity of Hannah and Matt as the series progressed. As they continue to navigate their relationship, readers are treated to another beautifully sexy, erotic, amorous, passionate and sensual read.
After Dark made me fall in love with Matt!!! I was addicted to this sexy hero who has somehow manage to capture my full attention. My heart truly went out to Matt when he thinks he's undeserving of love. I really wanted to give him a hug and reassure him that he no longer has to be in the dark.
The Night Owl Trilogy is one emotional sexy erotic roller coaster. M. Pierce did an amazing job in capturing our attention. This author was able to weave romance, angst, secrets, lies, and heart into this beautifully seductive read. The writing and story-line was addicting!!! M. Pierce should be praised for bestowing romance readers an original and captivating book. As I stated earlier, this conclusion to the series is a bit bittersweet for me since M. Pierce had us all on edge of our seats for After Dark and I'm a bit sad to say goodbye to Matt Sky. I look forward to reading more future works from this author.
M.Pierce
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
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If you must know I was absolutely addicted to Night Owl by M. Pierce and I couldn't get enough of Matt Sky. And the way M. Pierce has written this seductive and tantalizing trilogy has readers begging for more. I must say this last installment, After Dark was a PERFECT conclusion to this trilogy. And what a brilliant and satisfying ending!!
With the truth of Matt faking his death exposed, Hannah and Matt must face one of their biggest challenge in their relationship: What the future holds for them. With all the secrets and lies exposed, the real test for this couple was how they will establish a healthy relationship as a couple.The beauty of this book was the raw aspect of their relationship as they are both showcase their vulnerability. Matt and Hannah's struggle with their relationship was an honest portrayal of a real couple learning how to communicate to each other. It was touching, emotional and raw. M. Pierce did an amazing job showcasing the growth and maturity of Hannah and Matt as the series progressed. As they continue to navigate their relationship, readers are treated to another beautifully sexy, erotic, amorous, passionate and sensual read.
After Dark made me fall in love with Matt!!! I was addicted to this sexy hero who has somehow manage to capture my full attention. My heart truly went out to Matt when he thinks he's undeserving of love. I really wanted to give him a hug and reassure him that he no longer has to be in the dark.
The Night Owl Trilogy is one emotional sexy erotic roller coaster. M. Pierce did an amazing job in capturing our attention. This author was able to weave romance, angst, secrets, lies, and heart into this beautifully seductive read. The writing and story-line was addicting!!! M. Pierce should be praised for bestowing romance readers an original and captivating book. As I stated earlier, this conclusion to the series is a bit bittersweet for me since M. Pierce had us all on edge of our seats for After Dark and I'm a bit sad to say goodbye to Matt Sky. I look forward to reading more future works from this author.
M.Pierce
[image error]
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
March 23, 2015
“Love. What else is love, if not the power to destroy?”
After Dark brings the fantastically addictive Night Owl trilogy to an incredibly satisfying conclusion. And what a finale it is! We are now witness to the somewhat “normal” living arrangements of Matt and Hannah as they return to real life after the tumultuous events of the first two books. Their relationship continues to be beautifully sexy, erotic and passionate. Make no mistake, After Dark is incredibly hot, dirty and lusty. Matt is irresistible! If not very maddening.
“…little secrets are like water, but if water gets into a rock and freezes, it can break the rock.”
Hannah and Matt both struggle in After Dark to reach a level of closeness and honesty that is sometimes brutal to witness yet real, honest and emotional. I love how both Matt and Hannah have grown and matured over the course of the trilogy, without one false note. The plot in the final book is refreshing and a complete page-turner. I will admit that I am distraught that this trilogy has ended (one of my all-time favorites, hands down), but I was absolutely entranced by the conclusion and the Epilogue. After Dark is a moody, erotic, sensual story that is a must-read book. Fingers crossed for many more books from the extraordinarily talented M. Pierce!
(ARC provided by the publisher with thanks.)
After Dark brings the fantastically addictive Night Owl trilogy to an incredibly satisfying conclusion. And what a finale it is! We are now witness to the somewhat “normal” living arrangements of Matt and Hannah as they return to real life after the tumultuous events of the first two books. Their relationship continues to be beautifully sexy, erotic and passionate. Make no mistake, After Dark is incredibly hot, dirty and lusty. Matt is irresistible! If not very maddening.
“…little secrets are like water, but if water gets into a rock and freezes, it can break the rock.”
Hannah and Matt both struggle in After Dark to reach a level of closeness and honesty that is sometimes brutal to witness yet real, honest and emotional. I love how both Matt and Hannah have grown and matured over the course of the trilogy, without one false note. The plot in the final book is refreshing and a complete page-turner. I will admit that I am distraught that this trilogy has ended (one of my all-time favorites, hands down), but I was absolutely entranced by the conclusion and the Epilogue. After Dark is a moody, erotic, sensual story that is a must-read book. Fingers crossed for many more books from the extraordinarily talented M. Pierce!
(ARC provided by the publisher with thanks.)
March 23, 2015
Night Owl: http://amzn.to/1xSmgKM – ON SALE!
Last Light: http://amzn.to/1Iijox8
After Dark: http://amzn.to/1N47Mi9 – Releases 3/24 – ON SALE!
The Night Owl Trilogy is one of my favorite series, ever. I didn’t think anything could top Night Owl or Last Light, but After Dark blows everything out of the water. M. Pierce writes like no one else does and After Dark is M’s best work to date.
From page one, After Dark is an emotional roller coaster. We see how much Matt and Hannah don’t actually know about one another. When you think about it, they’ve been together for about a year when Last Light leaves off. Of that year, they were apart for most of that time. We see so many growing pains for this couple, having to live together, and spend 24/7 with each other. So many times I wondered if they were going to make it. Their turmoil made my heart ache. I didn’t think Matt and Hannah would ever make me cry, but I cried so many times throughout this book. Tears of sadness at their struggle, tears of frustration for the both of them because they just wanted to be heard, tears of happiness at the tender moments that they shared. M really left me a mess by the time the book ended. A three-day book hangover, in fact. I couldn’t touch anything else because nothing else compared.
Despite the tough stuff, we still see the hunger and downright naughty side of Matt. And to my surprise, Hannah steps it up in this area too. While they may be going through relationship growing pains, one area they’ve always exceeded at is their sex life. It’s always been sort of desperate and wild, and it still is, but their closeness infiltrates it. It’s more intimate and comes from a place of wanting to completely please the other person. You can’t hide your wants and desires from someone you live with… and there is no more hiding for Matt.
I’m usually Team Hannah – but a few times throughout AD I wanted to slap some sense into her. She came across as scared and selfish at times. By the end of the book though, I got her. I got her fear and her desire to just be heard and included. As always, there isn’t a better girl to love our Matthew.
And Matthew, oh Matt… he’s so terribly broken sometimes. He does pain like no one else. He suffers so deeply that you can’t help but want to do anything you can to take his pain away. He has always felt everything with reckless abandon but in After Dark his poor soul gets crushed. I felt desperate to save him, to fix him somehow… but he’s words on a page and I couldn’t do anything. It’s crazy to feel so much for a fictional character but I do, and I think that just shows how well written these characters are. They feel real, they mean something to me, and I didn’t want to let them go.
I was apprehensive to read After Dark. I had it for a few days before I started. I didn’t want it to be over. I’ve lived with Matt and Hannah for more than a year.. I didn’t want to see their story end. But M. Pierce gave us the perfect ending. I felt strangely content, because I wasn’t expecting to feel so peaceful. But that ending… it was perfection. It gave Hannah and Matt the peace they deserve after such a crazy and wild ride. It makes everything they’ve endured worth it. Yes, I’m sad to see this series end… But I am so utterly happy for the two of them, I can’t even put it into words.
The best part of After Dark is how unexpected it is. Every time I felt comfortable, M took a giant left turn and left me stunned. Every time I felt like that was it, Matt and Hannah couldn’t hack it, M gave me hope and still… left me stunned. The sex in this book is OFF THE CHARTS HOT. M pushed the envelope in every way possible, left nothing unturned, and I sort think M left their own heart on the table with this book. Words may never again be written about Matt and Hannah but they will forever be with all of us. A perfect ending to a brilliant series. 5 stars.
Last Light: http://amzn.to/1Iijox8
After Dark: http://amzn.to/1N47Mi9 – Releases 3/24 – ON SALE!
The Night Owl Trilogy is one of my favorite series, ever. I didn’t think anything could top Night Owl or Last Light, but After Dark blows everything out of the water. M. Pierce writes like no one else does and After Dark is M’s best work to date.
From page one, After Dark is an emotional roller coaster. We see how much Matt and Hannah don’t actually know about one another. When you think about it, they’ve been together for about a year when Last Light leaves off. Of that year, they were apart for most of that time. We see so many growing pains for this couple, having to live together, and spend 24/7 with each other. So many times I wondered if they were going to make it. Their turmoil made my heart ache. I didn’t think Matt and Hannah would ever make me cry, but I cried so many times throughout this book. Tears of sadness at their struggle, tears of frustration for the both of them because they just wanted to be heard, tears of happiness at the tender moments that they shared. M really left me a mess by the time the book ended. A three-day book hangover, in fact. I couldn’t touch anything else because nothing else compared.
Despite the tough stuff, we still see the hunger and downright naughty side of Matt. And to my surprise, Hannah steps it up in this area too. While they may be going through relationship growing pains, one area they’ve always exceeded at is their sex life. It’s always been sort of desperate and wild, and it still is, but their closeness infiltrates it. It’s more intimate and comes from a place of wanting to completely please the other person. You can’t hide your wants and desires from someone you live with… and there is no more hiding for Matt.
I’m usually Team Hannah – but a few times throughout AD I wanted to slap some sense into her. She came across as scared and selfish at times. By the end of the book though, I got her. I got her fear and her desire to just be heard and included. As always, there isn’t a better girl to love our Matthew.
And Matthew, oh Matt… he’s so terribly broken sometimes. He does pain like no one else. He suffers so deeply that you can’t help but want to do anything you can to take his pain away. He has always felt everything with reckless abandon but in After Dark his poor soul gets crushed. I felt desperate to save him, to fix him somehow… but he’s words on a page and I couldn’t do anything. It’s crazy to feel so much for a fictional character but I do, and I think that just shows how well written these characters are. They feel real, they mean something to me, and I didn’t want to let them go.
I was apprehensive to read After Dark. I had it for a few days before I started. I didn’t want it to be over. I’ve lived with Matt and Hannah for more than a year.. I didn’t want to see their story end. But M. Pierce gave us the perfect ending. I felt strangely content, because I wasn’t expecting to feel so peaceful. But that ending… it was perfection. It gave Hannah and Matt the peace they deserve after such a crazy and wild ride. It makes everything they’ve endured worth it. Yes, I’m sad to see this series end… But I am so utterly happy for the two of them, I can’t even put it into words.
The best part of After Dark is how unexpected it is. Every time I felt comfortable, M took a giant left turn and left me stunned. Every time I felt like that was it, Matt and Hannah couldn’t hack it, M gave me hope and still… left me stunned. The sex in this book is OFF THE CHARTS HOT. M pushed the envelope in every way possible, left nothing unturned, and I sort think M left their own heart on the table with this book. Words may never again be written about Matt and Hannah but they will forever be with all of us. A perfect ending to a brilliant series. 5 stars.
March 22, 2015
✯✯✯✯ 1/2 ‘what a terrific finale’ Stars
‘My heart can barely hold you. All that I feel for you.’
This series has taken us on such an incredibly emotional and intense journey with a few laughs too. Some parts have frustrated us wildly to the point of annoyance. Most parts have had us clutching our hearts and wanting to jump into the story to offer hugs and compassionate love. Oh and let’s not forget the times we’ve needed a hosing down or two. At the end of it all, it’s been memorable.
‘Leaving the past behind. There’s no such thing.’
M Pierce is a talented and emotive Author who has that innate ability to rouse our emotions on both ends of the scale. The high’s and low’s – mostly extreme – in Night Owl and Last Light; finishing off on a crescendo in After Dark that had both, with a beautiful balance of heart wrenching emotion and exasperation, heartfelt emotion and an intense depth of soul searching.
‘Good and fierce….like avenging angels.’
What we truly loved was the fact that in After Dark, M Pierce refrained from compromising his characters. There was no sudden personality change nor was there an unnatural shift in character story line. Rather, what we experienced was a believable progression, a compromise and compassionate understanding that; it is what it is. We loved that.
‘Young and old. Like a child in a man’s body, sometimes. Too sad and serious.’
Matt went through the ringer once more, yet this time it was for real character and relationship growth. Self-healing if you will. His personal story isn’t pretty, it never will be.
‘Oh, he could go so cold, even in the face of my emotion.’
He’s an unpredictable and child-like mess, let’s be honest here. However, sometimes you’ll find a rare unique beauty disguised or wrapped up in an ugly perception or with rough jagged edges to the eye. It is rare for a character who so thoroughly exasperated us to hold our hearts in his hand and have us accept him, feel him, understand him and love him.
‘Pain is sharp. Even old pain. Past pain. Or maybe that’s the worst kind, because it stabs unexpectedly into our present happiness.’
Redemption through evolving yet retaining his very essence. Which brings us to Hannah.
Hannah ‘a simple girl’ who’s had to shoulder an incredible emotional burden through this series. Learning to live with the intense love she feels for the obsessive and all-encompassing possessiveness of Matt takes incredible strength and a true understanding. She brought a ‘feisty calmness’ and showed maturity and an incredibly open mind and willingness to fight for what she believes, needs and wants. Hannah truly had to endure more than anyone should have to. Not only that, her boundaries were pushed as were her inhibitions and experiences – ‘Exhibitionism – Humiliation – Violent Desire’ – all in the name of love. Worth it? Truly yes, as the emotion, the sweet moments, the gestures and affections brought so much more. Sometimes overcoming and exceeding our boundaries bring more than we envisaged. By giving more of ourselves what we can receive can come back tenfold.
“I realized that no amount of freedom was worth a life without Hannah.”
Overall we loved After Dark which after a shaky back and forth start became so much more than a typical romantic relationship endeavour. It became a conclusion about the fundamental characteristics of a person merging in compromise with another purely based on compassion, understanding, passion and commitment. It showed the beauty behind the complex. It involved our hearts to the point of tears and we loved every minute of that.
‘Matt wanted closeness. I knew how he worked. He drew comfort from intimacy. See, Matt? I do know you.’
**Reviewed from an ARC copy kindly provided by SMP **
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March 30, 2015
*** 5 STARS FOR MATT AND HANNAH ***
Well,it was back in December 2013 when I first read 'Night Owl' and it's no secret it's one of my all time favourite books ( in fact the only one that I've read over and over ) so I went into this one with anticipation and regret because I truely didn't want their story to end....and I just LOVED it..
This book is all about Matt and Hannah's relationship following the aftermath of Matt's fake suicide....they both have doubts and insecurities but overall is their total,almost obsessive love for each other....
I have loved every single word of Matt and Hannah's story,this Author is just BRILLIANT
Tonight,when you walk down the aisle and our eyes meet,only you and I know all that has passed between us.That is the way it should be.This love is thickly plaited.And you know I am a little sad( are you laughing?)_of course,I have to be sad.I have written two full novels about you,and now I understand that no novel will hold you -Matt
JUST AMAZING, CAN'T RATE THIS SERIES HIGH ENOUGH !!
Must finish with this quote....
I met a man online;he called himself a NIGHT OWL.We played a wicked game in the LAST LIGHT of day.We were married in October AFTER DARK -Hannah
Well,it was back in December 2013 when I first read 'Night Owl' and it's no secret it's one of my all time favourite books ( in fact the only one that I've read over and over ) so I went into this one with anticipation and regret because I truely didn't want their story to end....and I just LOVED it..
This book is all about Matt and Hannah's relationship following the aftermath of Matt's fake suicide....they both have doubts and insecurities but overall is their total,almost obsessive love for each other....
I have loved every single word of Matt and Hannah's story,this Author is just BRILLIANT
Tonight,when you walk down the aisle and our eyes meet,only you and I know all that has passed between us.That is the way it should be.This love is thickly plaited.And you know I am a little sad( are you laughing?)_of course,I have to be sad.I have written two full novels about you,and now I understand that no novel will hold you -Matt
JUST AMAZING, CAN'T RATE THIS SERIES HIGH ENOUGH !!
Must finish with this quote....
I met a man online;he called himself a NIGHT OWL.We played a wicked game in the LAST LIGHT of day.We were married in October AFTER DARK -Hannah
Want to read
April 23, 2014 WANT. WANT. WANT. WANT. WANT. WANT !!!!!
November 25, 2019
"Spend all you have for loveliness.- Sara Teasdale "Barter"
Buy it and never count the cost."
Last Light ended with Hannah proposing to Matt backstage at the talkshow - remember?
But Matt doesn't believe that Hannah is serious, he thinks she just said it to make the audience forget about his faked death. But of course she was serious - she loves him and wants to spend the rest of her life with him.
But Matt thinks that she can't decide that at this point in their relationship - because he thinks that she doesn't know the real Matt yet. There's still sooo much hidden - things he wants and needs - things he doesn't think he can ever tell her about - because she might leave him....
On the professional side, Hannah is being promoted at the agency...
And Matt is about finished with his next book - with EVERYTHING in it - everything that Hannah doesn't really want the world to know...
And of course we also have Matt's brother Seth again - with Hannah's sister Chrissy....they might have done something, that resulted in something ☺
Matt can't deal with some of Hannah's plans for their future life and Hannah doesn't know how to deal with what Matt wants.
Plus all the tension between them because Hannah is talking to Seth again....and the new book and this and that.... ☺
Lots of problems to overcome until Matt & Hannah can even think about having a Happy Ever After....
WHAT WiLL HAPPEN WiTH HANNAH & MATT???
WiLL MATT'S HIDDEN DESIRES DESTROY EVERYTHiNG???
WiLL THE TWO OF THEM FINALLY GET THEIR HEA???
Nope - I'm not telling you ☺
_________________________________
I REALLY LOoOVED THE BOOK!
When I saw this ARC on my Kindle I was sooo shocked again - just like with Last Light ☺
I couldn't believe that the waiting time was over already!!!
I LOOOVE MATTHEW! He's such a sweet guy with sooo many problems and you just can't help but want to give him a hug and more ;) #TotalFangirl
Ugh!!
This series is soo amazing!
So different from other books out there.
Matt is such an ass - such a total Anti-Hero really, but we totally love his assholery!!
...... he's sooo adorable and hot and sexy and dominant and cute and did I mention adorable? With his cute little pet rabbit?? ♥
I'm not sure which book I loved more - Night Owl or Last Light or After Dark...
They were all three so intensely captivating but at the same time amazingly different ....
This last book starts right where Last Light left us..with Hannah proposing to Matt at the Talk Show.
But it doesn't really go the way he expected it to go - well, ok - it's Matt we're talking about, so we should expect everything ☺
I loved every minute of it. All the big emotional moments...
and all those sexy and romantic moments...
But there was also lots of cute and funny stuff - like that Matthew is now on Facebook and twitter ☺
We also dive in deeper into Matthew's psychological problems. We have lots of appointments with his therapist and we understand a little bit more why he is the way he is....
But just like the first two books, this last one in the series is really absolutely emotional. It was all so very moving and sad and there were some - or lots of moments where I wanted to slap or shake the hell out of our Night Owl!!! Grrrr - that man!! I was really scared where this was all going ...
BUT AGAIN, LIKE WITH BOOK #1 & #2, I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF THE STORY!!!!
And if you fell in love with Matt and Hannah in NIGHT OWL & LAST LIGHT - you will love them even more now ☺
I especially loved the last three lines of the last chapter (not the epilogue!) I had tears in my eyes again!
And another line I loved - that's not in the story, but I still loved it - no idea why I almost had to cry, but the three words M. Pierce uses in the beginning: For Anna, always.
Soooo beautiful. I'm weird, I know ☺
AFTER DARK was an amazingly emotional erotic Romance! I couldn't put it down! So sad that it's over now. Perfect ending to a perfect series!
.....but now I'm excited for whatever comes next ☺
July 26, 2016
4 stars !!
I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were married in October, after dark.
I really liked it,but still...It felt like something was missing.
I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were married in October, after dark.
I really liked it,but still...It felt like something was missing.
February 22, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for a honest review.
I just didn't like the story. Overall, really disappointed in the series.
Matt is just too much. Hannah's constant enabling and forgiving has grown old. Too sum up the book... Matt has major psychological issues, and Hannah chooses to ignore them to receive a great orgasm instead. Their relationship is so messed up and primarily based on their sexual chemistry. So....what is different from the prior book?????? Oh... a whip... so unbelievable. And two strippers.. Really????
The one saving grace from the last book was Seth. The direction they took his character in After Dark, I hated!!! Seth's destiny and the effect it had on Matt, for one it ticked me off and second Matt's behavior/reaction was a side of him that came to late in the series for us to see. Then the last 20% of the book was rushed. There are still many issues to be dealt with and to resolve. Are we to believe they got their HEA????
And little junior... everyone was so concerned with Matt... the person who needed help was an afterthought. Ugh... i just can't like Matt's character.
I just didn't like the story. Overall, really disappointed in the series.
Matt is just too much. Hannah's constant enabling and forgiving has grown old. Too sum up the book... Matt has major psychological issues, and Hannah chooses to ignore them to receive a great orgasm instead. Their relationship is so messed up and primarily based on their sexual chemistry. So....what is different from the prior book?????? Oh... a whip... so unbelievable. And two strippers.. Really????
The one saving grace from the last book was Seth. The direction they took his character in After Dark, I hated!!! Seth's destiny and the effect it had on Matt, for one it ticked me off and second Matt's behavior/reaction was a side of him that came to late in the series for us to see. Then the last 20% of the book was rushed. There are still many issues to be dealt with and to resolve. Are we to believe they got their HEA????
And little junior... everyone was so concerned with Matt... the person who needed help was an afterthought. Ugh... i just can't like Matt's character.
April 5, 2015
Night Owl was over the top amazing for me. I loved that book so hard. It was taboo, sexy, AND it had amazing writing that sucked me in and kept me turning the pages.
As I started this last installment, I was afraid that it wouldn't measure up to the first book.
The plot was unpredictable, the writing was amazing. But I was missing something.
Matt was such a wreck for most of this story. I felt like he and Hannah were at odds for the majority of the book. The secrets, the lies. These two have been through so much, I wanted them to have more trust for each other. We are in the THIRD and final book in the series, after all.
Loved the ending!
Bottom line: the first book was so good, I'm not sure anything after could have topped it. I love this author's writing and I'm definitely going to pick up all future works.
As I started this last installment, I was afraid that it wouldn't measure up to the first book.
The plot was unpredictable, the writing was amazing. But I was missing something.
Matt was such a wreck for most of this story. I felt like he and Hannah were at odds for the majority of the book. The secrets, the lies. These two have been through so much, I wanted them to have more trust for each other. We are in the THIRD and final book in the series, after all.
Loved the ending!
Bottom line: the first book was so good, I'm not sure anything after could have topped it. I love this author's writing and I'm definitely going to pick up all future works.
March 24, 2015
I write this review with tears. Of happiness, sadness, fulfillment and love!!! This is my third try at this. The last review I was writing sounded like a eulogy! So. I trashed it. So let’s see if I can do After Dark justice.
I will start off by saying that this book, was my absolute favorite of the series. I know, I know. It’s like asking to pick a favorite child or pet. But yeah. It’s my favorite. This book just had it all. And when I say all. I mean ALL THE THINGS. M. Pierce held nothing back. M put everything out there. Including some HOLY WHAT THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED and OMG OMG OMG NOOOOOOOOOO moments. Yeah. There were a couple times, I broke down. And writing this now, I’m crying again. The direction that was taken with this story was absolute perfection. I did question one part. I yelled at my phone. Locked myself in the bathroom at 2 am and cried like a baby. But after clearing my head, and coming to terms with it, I got it. I get it. And it’s a very important part of the story. So yeah, I forgive M.
I don’t do spoilers. I hate them myself. But, I can assure you that The King of Kink/Dirty Talker ~MATTHEW Sky~ lives on. There were lots of new “activities” that take place. Some I might of added to my FuckIt list (thank you, Lex for that word). I might of needed a cold shower after a few. Or some alone time…ahem. When Matt and Hannah come together (no pun intended) they really come together (pun intended). Every moment they share, you feel it yourself, straight through to the bottom of your curled up toes. It’s quite powerful. Shockingly, I think I only wanted to stab Matt in the eyeball once. He is still full of his assholery ways. I love Matt’s dry humor. I can’t even count on how many times I literally laughed out loud. Whether it was him being an adorable, pouty, stubborn ass. Or when he was actually being funny. It simply made me fall that much more in love with him. We get all sides of Matt in this book. Every emotion. Every feeling. Matt really matured in this book. I couldn’t of been more proud. And I love how M. Pierce put it all out there.
And Hannah. Oh how I’m going to miss her. So strong, brave, passionate, committed. Her love for Matt. Knows no limits. And these limits are tested. Quite a few times. What I love most about Hannah is her dedication. Her fire. Her driven desire for Matt. When she sets her mind to something, there’s nothing stopping her. Her commitment to family. The passion. Everyone needs a Hannah in their family. To hold them together. To bring them together. And to try to love together. I love the relationship with her and Nate. Sweet, sweet Nate. Which brings me to my final (God, that’s so sad. FINAL!! The tears!!!) anyway, my….final thoughts of this book. To me, this book represented learning, dealing, maturing, coping, coming together, hope, grieving, family, love, and healing. Moving forward. In the end, Matt and Hannah have a love like no other. They’ve had their share of problems. But in the end. It’s their love, passion and fire that keeps them together. And in my mind, forever and ever they lived happily ever after!!
And this is where I will get a little sappy. M, when I first read Night Owl on that cold and rainy Halloween night in 2013, I was blown away. I knew instantly you were something special. I fell in love with your words, your thoughts, and your mind first. You were the first author I stalked / researched. And I’m so glad I have no shame. Because had I not, you and my girls and so many other amazing people I have met through you would of never happened. I will be forever grateful to you for that. Thank you for sharing your beautiful beautiful mind with the world. Thank you for sharing Matt and Hannah. And most important. Thank you for YOU.
(One little side note. I only had to google one word in this book. That’s QUITE an improvement. I might not be able to pronounce aberrant, but I now know what it means. Thank you for making me smarter.)
I will start off by saying that this book, was my absolute favorite of the series. I know, I know. It’s like asking to pick a favorite child or pet. But yeah. It’s my favorite. This book just had it all. And when I say all. I mean ALL THE THINGS. M. Pierce held nothing back. M put everything out there. Including some HOLY WHAT THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED and OMG OMG OMG NOOOOOOOOOO moments. Yeah. There were a couple times, I broke down. And writing this now, I’m crying again. The direction that was taken with this story was absolute perfection. I did question one part. I yelled at my phone. Locked myself in the bathroom at 2 am and cried like a baby. But after clearing my head, and coming to terms with it, I got it. I get it. And it’s a very important part of the story. So yeah, I forgive M.
I don’t do spoilers. I hate them myself. But, I can assure you that The King of Kink/Dirty Talker ~MATTHEW Sky~ lives on. There were lots of new “activities” that take place. Some I might of added to my FuckIt list (thank you, Lex for that word). I might of needed a cold shower after a few. Or some alone time…ahem. When Matt and Hannah come together (no pun intended) they really come together (pun intended). Every moment they share, you feel it yourself, straight through to the bottom of your curled up toes. It’s quite powerful. Shockingly, I think I only wanted to stab Matt in the eyeball once. He is still full of his assholery ways. I love Matt’s dry humor. I can’t even count on how many times I literally laughed out loud. Whether it was him being an adorable, pouty, stubborn ass. Or when he was actually being funny. It simply made me fall that much more in love with him. We get all sides of Matt in this book. Every emotion. Every feeling. Matt really matured in this book. I couldn’t of been more proud. And I love how M. Pierce put it all out there.
And Hannah. Oh how I’m going to miss her. So strong, brave, passionate, committed. Her love for Matt. Knows no limits. And these limits are tested. Quite a few times. What I love most about Hannah is her dedication. Her fire. Her driven desire for Matt. When she sets her mind to something, there’s nothing stopping her. Her commitment to family. The passion. Everyone needs a Hannah in their family. To hold them together. To bring them together. And to try to love together. I love the relationship with her and Nate. Sweet, sweet Nate. Which brings me to my final (God, that’s so sad. FINAL!! The tears!!!) anyway, my….final thoughts of this book. To me, this book represented learning, dealing, maturing, coping, coming together, hope, grieving, family, love, and healing. Moving forward. In the end, Matt and Hannah have a love like no other. They’ve had their share of problems. But in the end. It’s their love, passion and fire that keeps them together. And in my mind, forever and ever they lived happily ever after!!
And this is where I will get a little sappy. M, when I first read Night Owl on that cold and rainy Halloween night in 2013, I was blown away. I knew instantly you were something special. I fell in love with your words, your thoughts, and your mind first. You were the first author I stalked / researched. And I’m so glad I have no shame. Because had I not, you and my girls and so many other amazing people I have met through you would of never happened. I will be forever grateful to you for that. Thank you for sharing your beautiful beautiful mind with the world. Thank you for sharing Matt and Hannah. And most important. Thank you for YOU.
(One little side note. I only had to google one word in this book. That’s QUITE an improvement. I might not be able to pronounce aberrant, but I now know what it means. Thank you for making me smarter.)
March 13, 2015
2.5 stars
*sigh* This just didn't work for me.
I'm not sure who this is going to hurt more, me having to write it, or the Night Owl fans having to read it. Maybe it's probably best if those fans don't read this . . .
I was really looking forward to the conclusion to this series. I expected the author to shock me with twist and turns. And my first thought after finishing? What the hell just happened? Seriously, what is the plot of this book? Is it: how to function in a dysfunctional relationship?
These two redefine a hot and cold relationship. They are like fire and ice. Their hot moments so hot, they leave a mark on you, the reader. The cold moments so cold, I personally got a chill. While marriage was a big topic of this book, they had more alone time away from each other out of anger than a 30 year old marriage. Would I recommend that these two marry and *gulp* procreate? HELL to the NO!
These two fought ALL THE TIME! And it wasn't a I-wish-you-would-be-more-thoughtful kind of fights were they argue and make up. No, these two know how to hold a grudge like no one's business. There were MANY instances where they wouldn't even talk to each other and sleep in separate rooms. Then magically, they made up after some intimate touches. On top of that, the fights were so stupid. Hannah would push for something, and when Matt would finally relent, she'd get mad at how he conceded. She was beyond annoying in this book.
Then there is Matt. If it wasn't already clear in books 1 and 2, he is whacked. He is not right in the head. While he does see a therapist, I'm not sure how they help him. When Matt hits an all time low and no one can seem to pull him out, a white horse rides in to save the day. Really? And we then get our HEA. Really?
Overall, I'm very disappointed with this end to the trilogy. The author is definitely talented as we saw in Night Owl and in parts of Last Light. This book just had no direction, no point. And I wanted more.
I'm reading the 5 star reviews and trying to figure out what I missed. Oh well. There seem to be plenty out there that loved this book, so take my review with a grain of salt.
I'll end on a positive note since I'm being overly negative. The sexual chemistry between Hannah and Matt is as hot as ever. Their connection physically cannot be denied, so if that's what you love about the series, then you will be happy.
*An ARC was received from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
*sigh* This just didn't work for me.
I'm not sure who this is going to hurt more, me having to write it, or the Night Owl fans having to read it. Maybe it's probably best if those fans don't read this . . .
I was really looking forward to the conclusion to this series. I expected the author to shock me with twist and turns. And my first thought after finishing? What the hell just happened? Seriously, what is the plot of this book? Is it: how to function in a dysfunctional relationship?
These two redefine a hot and cold relationship. They are like fire and ice. Their hot moments so hot, they leave a mark on you, the reader. The cold moments so cold, I personally got a chill. While marriage was a big topic of this book, they had more alone time away from each other out of anger than a 30 year old marriage. Would I recommend that these two marry and *gulp* procreate? HELL to the NO!
These two fought ALL THE TIME! And it wasn't a I-wish-you-would-be-more-thoughtful kind of fights were they argue and make up. No, these two know how to hold a grudge like no one's business. There were MANY instances where they wouldn't even talk to each other and sleep in separate rooms. Then magically, they made up after some intimate touches. On top of that, the fights were so stupid. Hannah would push for something, and when Matt would finally relent, she'd get mad at how he conceded. She was beyond annoying in this book.
Then there is Matt. If it wasn't already clear in books 1 and 2, he is whacked. He is not right in the head. While he does see a therapist, I'm not sure how they help him. When Matt hits an all time low and no one can seem to pull him out, a white horse rides in to save the day. Really? And we then get our HEA. Really?
Overall, I'm very disappointed with this end to the trilogy. The author is definitely talented as we saw in Night Owl and in parts of Last Light. This book just had no direction, no point. And I wanted more.
I'm reading the 5 star reviews and trying to figure out what I missed. Oh well. There seem to be plenty out there that loved this book, so take my review with a grain of salt.
I'll end on a positive note since I'm being overly negative. The sexual chemistry between Hannah and Matt is as hot as ever. Their connection physically cannot be denied, so if that's what you love about the series, then you will be happy.
*An ARC was received from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
March 14, 2015
I've just experienced emotional whiplash! My mind is still reeling. My soul has been shaken. My heart is still aching. I'm not sure one can completely recover from a love story like this. It was epic, emotional, outstanding, an all around perfect conclusion to one of my all time favorite series. This author's writing is like crack to me. I'm so addicted. It's always superb in every way, and I am never disappointed with the approach she takes with her beautifully flawed characters.
Matt and Hannah will forever have a place in my heart. Their story was rough, they went through so many struggles, and their love was tested on many levels, but their love became stronger in the end. A relationship that some would call 'unhealthy,' blossomed into pure beauty and artistry. It was an immense pleasure to go through this wonderful and emotional journey. You know sometimes when people say a certain book changed them. I can safely say, not only this book, but this complete series, has changed me. It has changed my way of looking at the world, and it has changed my way of looking at true love. I have always rooted for these two to have their happily ever after. It wouldn't be perfect, it wouldn't be normal, but it would be THEIRS. I feel like M. Pierce did these characters and their story justice. It was perfection. It was transcendent. It was sublime.
The author has accomplished greatness here, and I was so proud as an avid romance reader to experience the journey. The way Matt and Hannah communicated through their story was beautiful, touching, and incredibly emotional. I might have been tears throughout the entire book. Sad tears. Angry tears. Happy tears. When I neared the ending, I wanted to slow down, savor it a bit more. I didn't want it to end. It was hard letting these characters go, but it had to happen, and the author did a fabulous job at giving her readers a conclusion that we will never forget. Bravo M. Pierce for creating something so special, so unique, and so damn extraordinary.
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
September 9, 2015
M. Pierce doesn’t fail to deliver with my favorite book of the trilogy, After Dark. Rarely does a series end on such a high note. Beautifully crafted metafiction. After Dark, skillfully explores the lines between fiction and nonfiction, creating an authenticity that can often be elusive in fiction. After Dark, commands the reader’s attention through M’s disciplined storytelling. I felt so completely lost in Pierce’s prose, as always. Masterfully woven with solemnity, lust, intelligence, wit, and a considerable emotional breadth. Blending my laughs with my sorrows, my highs with my lows, I was wrought by the end. The ever-persuasive characters leave such a lingering sense of presence, as if I'd actually spent time with a living, breathing person.
I once said-- “Pierce is clearly well educated, well read, sharp, intelligent, and it shines through. I am in awe of the writing and perplexed by the fact that this is the first published, I look forward to the rest of the series and following Pierce’s career. Godspeed.” I am still in awe. After Dark was a new level to M’s genius and formidable talent. I was left without words, for once. M is such a rare gem and a true gift to literature, once again proving that there is no need to choose between romance and literature. Requiring more from the reader, expecting more. After Dark and Pierce’s prose is a much needed breath of fresh air, something I will never tire of—pure, clean, refreshing. There is no doubt that M will only continue to “do epic.” Be epic M, let's do this again sometime.
I need to rewrite this.
"Genius gives birth, talent delivers." -- Kerouac
(my note the second I finished) This.... I'm crying, happy tears, biggest smile on my face. This ... is happiness...
hashtags: Enticing, meticulous, sharp, witty, disciplined, controlled, dolorous, intelligent, erotic, and irresistible.
I once said-- “Pierce is clearly well educated, well read, sharp, intelligent, and it shines through. I am in awe of the writing and perplexed by the fact that this is the first published, I look forward to the rest of the series and following Pierce’s career. Godspeed.” I am still in awe. After Dark was a new level to M’s genius and formidable talent. I was left without words, for once. M is such a rare gem and a true gift to literature, once again proving that there is no need to choose between romance and literature. Requiring more from the reader, expecting more. After Dark and Pierce’s prose is a much needed breath of fresh air, something I will never tire of—pure, clean, refreshing. There is no doubt that M will only continue to “do epic.” Be epic M, let's do this again sometime.
I need to rewrite this.
"Genius gives birth, talent delivers." -- Kerouac
(my note the second I finished) This.... I'm crying, happy tears, biggest smile on my face. This ... is happiness...
hashtags: Enticing, meticulous, sharp, witty, disciplined, controlled, dolorous, intelligent, erotic, and irresistible.
March 29, 2015
Very satisfied with this last book in a great trilogy. Gonna miss you, Matt and Little bird.
April 5, 2015
4.5 Stars
‘My heart can barely hold you. All that I feel for you.’
This series has taken us on such an incredibly emotional and intense journey with a few laughs too. Some parts have frustrated us wildly to the point of annoyance. Most parts have had us clutching our hearts and wanting to jump into the story to offer hugs and compassionate love. Oh and let’s not forget the times we’ve needed a hosing down or two. At the end of it all, it’s been memorable.
‘Leaving the past behind. There’s no such thing.’
M Pierce is a talented and emotive Author who has that innate ability to rouse our emotions on both ends of the scale. The high’s and low’s – mostly extreme – in Night Owl and Last Light; finishing off on a crescendo in After Dark that had both, with a beautiful balance of heart wrenching emotion and exasperation, heartfelt emotion and an intense depth of soul searching.
‘Good and fierce….like avenging angels.’
What we truly loved was the fact that in After Dark, M Pierce refrained from compromising his characters. There was no sudden personality change nor was there an unnatural shift in character story line. Rather, what we experienced was a believable progression, a compromise and compassionate understanding that; it is what it is. We loved that.
‘Young and old. Like a child in a man’s body, sometimes. Too sad and serious.’
Matt went through the ringer once more, yet this time it was for real character and relationship growth. Self-healing if you will. His personal story isn’t pretty, it never will be.
‘Oh, he could go so cold, even in the face of my emotion.’
He’s an unpredictable and child-like mess, let’s be honest here. However, sometimes you’ll find a rare unique beauty disguised or wrapped up in an ugly perception or with rough jagged edges to the eye. It is rare for a character who so thoroughly exasperated us to hold our hearts in his hand and have us accept him, feel him, understand him and love him.
‘Pain is sharp. Even old pain. Past pain. Or maybe that’s the worst kind, because it stabs unexpectedly into our present happiness.’
Redemption through evolving yet retaining his very essence. Which brings us to Hannah.
Hannah ‘a simple girl’ who’s had to shoulder an incredible emotional burden through this series. Learning to live with the intense love she feels for the obsessive and all-encompassing possessiveness of Matt takes incredible strength and a true understanding. She brought a ‘feisty calmness’ and showed maturity and an incredibly open mind and willingness to fight for what she believes, needs and wants. Hannah truly had to endure more than anyone should have to. Not only that, her boundaries were pushed as were her inhibitions and experiences – ‘Exhibitionism – Humiliation – Violent Desire’ – all in the name of love. Worth it? Truly yes, as the emotion, the sweet moments, the gestures and affections brought so much more. Sometimes overcoming and exceeding our boundaries bring more than we envisaged. By giving more of ourselves what we can receive can come back tenfold.
“I realized that no amount of freedom was worth a life without Hannah.”
Overall we loved After Dark which after a shaky back and forth start became so much more than a typical romantic relationship endeavour. It became a conclusion about the fundamental characteristics of a person merging in compromise with another purely based on compassion, understanding, passion and commitment. It showed the beauty behind the complex. It involved our hearts to the point of tears and we loved every minute of that.
‘Matt wanted closeness. I knew how he worked. He drew comfort from intimacy. See, Matt? I do know you.’
**Reviewed from an ARC copy kindly provided by SMP **
Our NIGHT OWL Review
Our LAST LIGHT Review
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February 27, 2015ARC kindly provided by St. Martin's Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2015
I can’t believe we are actually here at the end of our beloved Night Owl trilogy. After Dark is finally out and has likely been devoured by people reading late into the night. I read this one over a 24 hour period and was actually scared to start it. I was filled with such trepidation because I didn’t want it to end. Bittersweet doesn’t even begin to describe the emotions I had when reading this book. I have to admit that I didn’t get sucked in immediately like I did with Night Owl and Last Light. This is no fault of M. Pierce or the writing or the storytelling. It was all me. I was afraid to open myself up to the emotions. Silly, I know. It took me a good 100 pages before I was all in. I remember when that moment clicked and my heart cracked open. Darn you, M. Pierce! You always make me feel too much, but I love you for that.
After Dark picks up directly after the events in Last Light. Matt and Hannah are still reeling from her impromptu proposal. Watching these two continue their lives and learn to live with one another after all of the lies and secrets makes for a really emotional journey filled with angst and, of course, hotness. Hannah continues to inspire me while Matt still breaks my heart on occasion. I was thinking that their hardest battles were behind them but, of course, M. Pierce doesn’t let them ride off quietly into the night. They deal with some heavy emotions in this book and through it all, I can feel their love and passion for each other.
Speaking of passion, Matt and Hannah continue to light the pages on fire. Once again, M. Pierce tops the sex scenes in the previous books. It was scorching hot. There was this one particular scene that left me aching … and searching for immediate M. alone time. There’s something raw and real and gritty about the sex in the books, and I effing love it.
Apart from the hottest sex around, I know the biggest draw to this series for most people is the love story between Matt and Hannah. At times that is almost secondary to me. The love story between the families is what gets to me. Every. Single. Time. It’s what causes the tears to fall and my heart to break and all of these wonderful feelings we chase when we read a book. We hope to find something that speaks to us, that reaches inside of us, digs deep, and becomes a part of us. After Dark does that and so much more. This book tugged at my emotions more than the previous installments which doesn’t seem possible. I read the familial scenes in After Dark and just sobbed and sobbed. My wife was concerned that something was wrong with me. This is the beauty of M’s writing and storytelling. We are still so wrapped up in Matt and Hannah’s story but the love story between the Sky brothers and the Catalano sisters is what really moved me. Pierce writes these relationships so real and so flawed and yet there is so much love there. To me, love is the underlying theme here. It always has been. A brother’s love. A sister’s love. A parent’s love. We get to experience it all. And, of course, the most breathtaking love story of all is Matt and Hannah’s. These characters seeped into my soul where they’ll always reside. A piece of my heart belongs to this story and these characters. Always. I feel like I’ve been branded by M. Pierce. It’s a good pain that burns deep.
I can’t end my review without mentioning Nate Sky. He’s still my perfect man. He’s the epitome of all that’s good in the world and still so dreamy. Nate makes me feel hopeful. I’ll always be straight for Nate.
In the end, it’s another 5 star perfect read from M. Pierce. I truly loved the ending to this beautiful series. I had no idea how M. would end it. I was nervous and worried about Matt and Hannah potentially ending with a typical romantic trope but M. Pierce blew the roof off of conventionality. I’m still feeling the effects of this book a month later. After Dark is a masterpiece. Bravo, M.
After Dark picks up directly after the events in Last Light. Matt and Hannah are still reeling from her impromptu proposal. Watching these two continue their lives and learn to live with one another after all of the lies and secrets makes for a really emotional journey filled with angst and, of course, hotness. Hannah continues to inspire me while Matt still breaks my heart on occasion. I was thinking that their hardest battles were behind them but, of course, M. Pierce doesn’t let them ride off quietly into the night. They deal with some heavy emotions in this book and through it all, I can feel their love and passion for each other.
Speaking of passion, Matt and Hannah continue to light the pages on fire. Once again, M. Pierce tops the sex scenes in the previous books. It was scorching hot. There was this one particular scene that left me aching … and searching for immediate M. alone time. There’s something raw and real and gritty about the sex in the books, and I effing love it.
Apart from the hottest sex around, I know the biggest draw to this series for most people is the love story between Matt and Hannah. At times that is almost secondary to me. The love story between the families is what gets to me. Every. Single. Time. It’s what causes the tears to fall and my heart to break and all of these wonderful feelings we chase when we read a book. We hope to find something that speaks to us, that reaches inside of us, digs deep, and becomes a part of us. After Dark does that and so much more. This book tugged at my emotions more than the previous installments which doesn’t seem possible. I read the familial scenes in After Dark and just sobbed and sobbed. My wife was concerned that something was wrong with me. This is the beauty of M’s writing and storytelling. We are still so wrapped up in Matt and Hannah’s story but the love story between the Sky brothers and the Catalano sisters is what really moved me. Pierce writes these relationships so real and so flawed and yet there is so much love there. To me, love is the underlying theme here. It always has been. A brother’s love. A sister’s love. A parent’s love. We get to experience it all. And, of course, the most breathtaking love story of all is Matt and Hannah’s. These characters seeped into my soul where they’ll always reside. A piece of my heart belongs to this story and these characters. Always. I feel like I’ve been branded by M. Pierce. It’s a good pain that burns deep.
I can’t end my review without mentioning Nate Sky. He’s still my perfect man. He’s the epitome of all that’s good in the world and still so dreamy. Nate makes me feel hopeful. I’ll always be straight for Nate.
In the end, it’s another 5 star perfect read from M. Pierce. I truly loved the ending to this beautiful series. I had no idea how M. would end it. I was nervous and worried about Matt and Hannah potentially ending with a typical romantic trope but M. Pierce blew the roof off of conventionality. I’m still feeling the effects of this book a month later. After Dark is a masterpiece. Bravo, M.
April 1, 2015
3.5 stars
I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were married in October, after dark.
This is the conclusion to Matt and Hannah's story. I recently just read the first two books in the series. The first book I loved,loved,loved. I loved Matt's dirty mouth, the damaged little boy inside and the writer. The second one, I had less love for. I felt, in book 2 Hannah let Matt walk all over her. Now this book, the last one, I had little love for. It was just "okay". Not awesome but definitely not terrible either .This one felt choppy at times, jumping from one scene to the next without a specific time frame in between and leaving out details I would have liked to read. Personally, I don't feel Matt ever redeemed himself. Hannah bent over backwards for that man with very little returned by him. I guess, in reality, I would have almost preferred book one to be a standalone because I got the most out of it.
Matt and Hannah spend the majority of this book out of sync with each other or arguing(about the marriage, Matt calling Hannah a "simple" girl, Matt's book, his sexual desires, a house, the baby, etc.), which all could have been solved by the two of them communicating with each other. This got on my nerves. I felt like being in the third and final book, all or at least most of their problems should have been solved. There were fewer sexy times in this book than the other two and I missed those.
There was also so much outside drama from Seth and Chrissy that put a tremendous strain on Matt and Hannah's relationship. I didn't like Chrissy in this book at all. And Seth
I also wish we would've gotten more of a history and background of the three brothers. Why so much hate for each other? What was the disconnect?
I was disappointed in the Epilogue. I wanted more. Their "new life" was just kind of glossed over quickly. However, I did enjoy the writing in this book as I did in the first two.
I met a man online; he called himself a night owl. We played a wicked game in the last light of day. We were married in October, after dark.
This is the conclusion to Matt and Hannah's story. I recently just read the first two books in the series. The first book I loved,loved,loved. I loved Matt's dirty mouth, the damaged little boy inside and the writer. The second one, I had less love for. I felt, in book 2 Hannah let Matt walk all over her. Now this book, the last one, I had little love for. It was just "okay". Not awesome but definitely not terrible either .This one felt choppy at times, jumping from one scene to the next without a specific time frame in between and leaving out details I would have liked to read. Personally, I don't feel Matt ever redeemed himself. Hannah bent over backwards for that man with very little returned by him. I guess, in reality, I would have almost preferred book one to be a standalone because I got the most out of it.
Matt and Hannah spend the majority of this book out of sync with each other or arguing(about the marriage, Matt calling Hannah a "simple" girl, Matt's book, his sexual desires, a house, the baby, etc.), which all could have been solved by the two of them communicating with each other. This got on my nerves. I felt like being in the third and final book, all or at least most of their problems should have been solved. There were fewer sexy times in this book than the other two and I missed those.
There was also so much outside drama from Seth and Chrissy that put a tremendous strain on Matt and Hannah's relationship. I didn't like Chrissy in this book at all. And Seth
I also wish we would've gotten more of a history and background of the three brothers. Why so much hate for each other? What was the disconnect?
I was disappointed in the Epilogue. I wanted more. Their "new life" was just kind of glossed over quickly. However, I did enjoy the writing in this book as I did in the first two.
April 11, 2015
Oh Matt, Matt, Matt... what are you doing to me...
Here they are again, Matt & Hannah engaged. Or not? Well, it's not easy to say that cause Matt is moody and unpredictable as ever.
But... he's hot at that. He is. And I totally got Hannah and I wouldn't have done anything different than she has.
Sexy time was good! But it appeared to me that there was less sexy time than in part#1 and #2?
For me, the Trilogy couldn't end any better.
Generally part#3 hadn't this addicted kind of story line, that keeps you bound to it, like part #2 did.
And Mats and Hannahs back and forth every time annoyed me at some parts, and how suddenly everything was forgotten and forgiven. But yeah, that's how the story goes and I totally would like to give it a FULL 3 STARS!
August 13, 2016
This will be short and sweet. If you have read the first two books in this series and you love M's writing, then you will love this book. After Dark is a great ending to Matt's and Hannah's story.
March 13, 2015
"I'm steady behind you."
The Night Owl Trilogy is one of my favorites and I'm heartbroken it's over. But, I'm also feeling a little confused by what I just read. My emotions are all over the place. It just wasn't what I expected.
After Dark picks up right where Last Light left us. Dying to know Matt's answer to Hannah's life changing question.The one she threw out at him just seconds before their morning talk show appearance. We get the answer and I have to admit, I was disappointed. Not because of his answer, but because of the assumptions and accusations that came along with it. And so began the back and forth struggle that was constant throughout this story.
"Maybe, forever?"
I assumed that with everything Matt and Hannah had been through to get to this point, there would be more trust between them. Not a relationship full of lies and secrecy. I thought Matt would have grown as a person. Instead, I couldn't help but to feel that After Dark was a huge step back for him. Matt was even more unpredictable, manipulative and downright childish at times. And Hannah just took it, over and over.
"You're a spoiled brat, do you know that? Golden boy with green eyes. It's really hard to love you sometimes."
Don't get me wrong, Matt had his sweet moments. There were a few times, the Matt I fell for made an appearance. And there's no denying he's sexy. But, the majority of the story, he pushed my limits with his self-centeredness. And for some reason I found myself weirded out by his need to help Chrissy and how that turned out.
"Let me show you with my whole life how I love you."
Even with my mixed feelings for this book, this series is still one of my favorites. Each book was unique, sexy and maybe even a little odd, but I LOVED it. I can't wait to see what M. Pierce will come up with next.
3/5 Fangs
Mrs Leif's Two Fangs About It
*Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
The Night Owl Trilogy is one of my favorites and I'm heartbroken it's over. But, I'm also feeling a little confused by what I just read. My emotions are all over the place. It just wasn't what I expected.
After Dark picks up right where Last Light left us. Dying to know Matt's answer to Hannah's life changing question.The one she threw out at him just seconds before their morning talk show appearance. We get the answer and I have to admit, I was disappointed. Not because of his answer, but because of the assumptions and accusations that came along with it. And so began the back and forth struggle that was constant throughout this story.
"Maybe, forever?"
I assumed that with everything Matt and Hannah had been through to get to this point, there would be more trust between them. Not a relationship full of lies and secrecy. I thought Matt would have grown as a person. Instead, I couldn't help but to feel that After Dark was a huge step back for him. Matt was even more unpredictable, manipulative and downright childish at times. And Hannah just took it, over and over.
"You're a spoiled brat, do you know that? Golden boy with green eyes. It's really hard to love you sometimes."
Don't get me wrong, Matt had his sweet moments. There were a few times, the Matt I fell for made an appearance. And there's no denying he's sexy. But, the majority of the story, he pushed my limits with his self-centeredness. And for some reason I found myself weirded out by his need to help Chrissy and how that turned out.
"Let me show you with my whole life how I love you."
Even with my mixed feelings for this book, this series is still one of my favorites. Each book was unique, sexy and maybe even a little odd, but I LOVED it. I can't wait to see what M. Pierce will come up with next.
3/5 Fangs
Mrs Leif's Two Fangs About It
*Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
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