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Age of Legends #2
Empire of Night
Sisters Moira and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood.
or at least, they were.
Their village is gone. Their friends have betrayed them. And now, they are all but prisoners in court, forced to watch and wait while the Emperor decides whether to help the children of Edgewood, who remain hostages of the treacherous Alvar Kitsune.
But when the emperor finally sends the girls on a mission to rescue the children - accompanied by Prince Tyrus and a small band of men - the journey proves more perilous than any of them could have imagined. With lies and unrest mounting in the empire, Moria and Ashyn will have to draw on every bit of influence and power they possess to unite their people and avert an all-out war.
or at least, they were.
Their village is gone. Their friends have betrayed them. And now, they are all but prisoners in court, forced to watch and wait while the Emperor decides whether to help the children of Edgewood, who remain hostages of the treacherous Alvar Kitsune.
But when the emperor finally sends the girls on a mission to rescue the children - accompanied by Prince Tyrus and a small band of men - the journey proves more perilous than any of them could have imagined. With lies and unrest mounting in the empire, Moria and Ashyn will have to draw on every bit of influence and power they possess to unite their people and avert an all-out war.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
295 people are currently reading
7894 people want to read
About the author
Kelley Armstrong
301 books33.5k followersKelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers' dismay. All efforts to make her produce "normal" stories failed.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 561 reviews
March 7, 2017
4 stars
review to come
Great series so far!
CLIFFHANGER WARNING
Typical book 2 slump for the first half of this one but holy heck does it pick up!
review to come
Great series so far!
CLIFFHANGER WARNING
Typical book 2 slump for the first half of this one but holy heck does it pick up!
May 1, 2015
Before reading the book:
Just tell me Gavril is the good guy. Just tell me he is. I believe that he is. Please?!
After:
Well, it took me weeks to finish this book and i think i like book1 better. More action i guess, more adventure, and more GAVRIL. OMG! hahaha.
There are some stuffs that are so unexpected in this book, like ... OMG. MY LITTLE SHIPPING HEART DID SOME HAPPY DANCE. I JUST CANT. I really want Gavril and Moria to be together. you know!!! omgggg~ I like Tyrus, as a character, as a prince, as a warrior. but please stay away form Moria! you too are so sweet and so mushy-mushy! i was like *meeeh* and *barf* everytime they kiss or sweet talk. Well, i admit, i kinda like them at first, but in the ending? i was screaming (internally) for Moria to go back to Gavril, like please go back, you two are meant to be together. MY BABIES <3
Maybe why liked book1 better than this one, is because of the action, we have less of it, it's more feelings, escaping and running. I didnt much feel the *action*. Ashyn keeps on running, Ronan keeps on denying himself of Ashyn, he keeps on making some distance for them two, but clearly he likes her. And Ronan secret in the book is not that *shocking* i was like "okaaayyy" when he admitted his big secret. hahahaha. Moria is like *omg who should like love? but also need to save the children and fight*. Tyrus was like, Moria i want you please say you want me too and hate Gavril. and Gavril was like *i need to do what my father tells me to do, be cold and cruel so nobody will notice, i need to be a spy or something and at the same time, i need to hide my feeling for Moria* damn Gavril!
The ending, is predictable in Moria side,
Just tell me Gavril is the good guy. Just tell me he is. I believe that he is. Please?!
After:
Well, it took me weeks to finish this book and i think i like book1 better. More action i guess, more adventure, and more GAVRIL. OMG! hahaha.
There are some stuffs that are so unexpected in this book, like ... OMG. MY LITTLE SHIPPING HEART DID SOME HAPPY DANCE. I JUST CANT. I really want Gavril and Moria to be together. you know!!! omgggg~ I like Tyrus, as a character, as a prince, as a warrior. but please stay away form Moria! you too are so sweet and so mushy-mushy! i was like *meeeh* and *barf* everytime they kiss or sweet talk. Well, i admit, i kinda like them at first, but in the ending? i was screaming (internally) for Moria to go back to Gavril, like please go back, you two are meant to be together. MY BABIES <3
Maybe why liked book1 better than this one, is because of the action, we have less of it, it's more feelings, escaping and running. I didnt much feel the *action*. Ashyn keeps on running, Ronan keeps on denying himself of Ashyn, he keeps on making some distance for them two, but clearly he likes her. And Ronan secret in the book is not that *shocking* i was like "okaaayyy" when he admitted his big secret. hahahaha. Moria is like *omg who should like love? but also need to save the children and fight*. Tyrus was like, Moria i want you please say you want me too and hate Gavril. and Gavril was like *i need to do what my father tells me to do, be cold and cruel so nobody will notice, i need to be a spy or something and at the same time, i need to hide my feeling for Moria* damn Gavril!
The ending, is predictable in Moria side,
June 11, 2023
I have loved Kelley Armstrong books since I started reading YA books. The Summoning series introduced me to my love of young adult readers and I've been hooked ever since. I finally managed to find Empire of Night in my TBR collection in my house so I decided to pick it up. I will admit it was difficult jumping back into the story after 8 years, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
Empire of Night is a fantasy sequel in the Age of Legends series. Sisters Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood and they are now forced to deal with the fact that their village is completely gone. They are stuck in a court that might not be as trusting as they think and their friends are scattered. The two will have to venture on a journey to try to find the children from their village and face trials along the way.
This series is epic and thoroughly enjoyable. I honestly love the entire feel of this book and I got whisked away while reading it. You will want to read the series in order to understand this book at all though. Do not just jump into book two or you are going to be super confused. If you enjoy magic, fantasy, and of course a bit of YA drama with romance and potential love triangles, this book is for you!
My only negative? KELLEY WHY DID YOU HAVE A CLIFFHANGER. Now I need to go buy the third book...
Four out of five stars.
Empire of Night is a fantasy sequel in the Age of Legends series. Sisters Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood and they are now forced to deal with the fact that their village is completely gone. They are stuck in a court that might not be as trusting as they think and their friends are scattered. The two will have to venture on a journey to try to find the children from their village and face trials along the way.
This series is epic and thoroughly enjoyable. I honestly love the entire feel of this book and I got whisked away while reading it. You will want to read the series in order to understand this book at all though. Do not just jump into book two or you are going to be super confused. If you enjoy magic, fantasy, and of course a bit of YA drama with romance and potential love triangles, this book is for you!
My only negative? KELLEY WHY DID YOU HAVE A CLIFFHANGER. Now I need to go buy the third book...
Four out of five stars.
April 14, 2015
I NEED this book! Gavril!!! So twisted up inside by you....
(Update 4/14/15)--Spoilers Ahead, Readers Beware--
OK- It's been a full day since I finished Empire of Night and it's still all I can think about. I'm angry with Gavril- but I know that it's not black and white, that he's essentially the Snape of this story- but that does not FORGIVE everything. Tyrus has proven himself as a true hero & warrior, a partner you want at your back in the direst of situations, and a unsurpassable boyfriend for Moira. I want to stress this point because Moira and Gavril have HISTORY, not kisses and caresses, but emotional history. The thing with Gavril is that he was always putting her down, don;t yell at me- it's true! Maybe it was the part he was playing, but he had a way of making her feel bad about being herself. That is NOT the case with Tyrus, they're on the same wavelength, they often move in concert, he encourages and trusts and acts upon her judgement and council. They have a sexy and passionate chemistry between them... and yet I'm afraid that Armstrong will tear them apart in favor of Gavril's redemption. Now Armstrong had NEVER EVER EVER disappointed me in the romance department, some of my all-time favorite OPT's have been written (and man can she write the hell out of a romantic relationship) by her.
What Armstrong is perfect at is progressively dialing up the suspense and imminent danger her characters are in. She weaves our heroes into these webs of layered peril so that they are beset on all sides, and damn but she left us on a cliffhanger. It's such an awesome cliffhanger too because it has a million implications, and I will not spoil it for you.
This is a very Moira-centric book, Ashyn and Ronan are heavily featured, but the split seemed to favor Moira this time around. Their encounters were definitely filled with some delicious angst- Ronan is keeping his distance but cannot help himself. Ashyn wants to be angry, but can't help herself. Le sigh.... so gently romantic and yet nothing has happened yet.
I love everything about this book- even my rage at Gavril.
(Update 4/14/15)--Spoilers Ahead, Readers Beware--
OK- It's been a full day since I finished Empire of Night and it's still all I can think about. I'm angry with Gavril- but I know that it's not black and white, that he's essentially the Snape of this story- but that does not FORGIVE everything. Tyrus has proven himself as a true hero & warrior, a partner you want at your back in the direst of situations, and a unsurpassable boyfriend for Moira. I want to stress this point because Moira and Gavril have HISTORY, not kisses and caresses, but emotional history. The thing with Gavril is that he was always putting her down, don;t yell at me- it's true! Maybe it was the part he was playing, but he had a way of making her feel bad about being herself. That is NOT the case with Tyrus, they're on the same wavelength, they often move in concert, he encourages and trusts and acts upon her judgement and council. They have a sexy and passionate chemistry between them... and yet I'm afraid that Armstrong will tear them apart in favor of Gavril's redemption. Now Armstrong had NEVER EVER EVER disappointed me in the romance department, some of my all-time favorite OPT's have been written (and man can she write the hell out of a romantic relationship) by her.
What Armstrong is perfect at is progressively dialing up the suspense and imminent danger her characters are in. She weaves our heroes into these webs of layered peril so that they are beset on all sides, and damn but she left us on a cliffhanger. It's such an awesome cliffhanger too because it has a million implications, and I will not spoil it for you.
This is a very Moira-centric book, Ashyn and Ronan are heavily featured, but the split seemed to favor Moira this time around. Their encounters were definitely filled with some delicious angst- Ronan is keeping his distance but cannot help himself. Ashyn wants to be angry, but can't help herself. Le sigh.... so gently romantic and yet nothing has happened yet.
I love everything about this book- even my rage at Gavril.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2015
Betrayals, beasties, ghosts, political plays, and a love triangle.
If you have not read book 1 you must before you you read this one you will be lost.
It was an intense edition to the series. Moria is really put through hard times and suffers awhile trying to find the children taken from her destroyed village. She is used as a pawn. Tyrus and her are labeled as traitors and Asyln and her must be separated.
First let's get to the triangle. I do enjoy a well played triangle with two good choices each having specials bits to offer. Who wouldn't want two gorgeous men to pick from ?Moria with Tyrus or Gavril ? The last book I was Rah Rah **Team Gavril** till that thing happened, I was left with my mouth hanging open and a serious case of the doubts. He was really the one for her, right ? I though so till the book where we get to know the fabulously-sexy and steamy kisser Prince Tyrus. I am so fickle, I know. Tyrus, is kind, he listens, he observes, he respects, and he likes Moria for who she is, and he's a prince. So now I'm Rah Rah **Team Tyrus** I want Tyrus to win the girl ! I think.
So what happened to the children from the girls village in book one ? We still don't know. There were traps set lies told and they are still gone. What was Gavril's reason for what he did ? We still don't know. This was the only part of the story that left me a bit pissy. He had chances to reveal his reasoning, but he was cut off or he skirted the truth till it was too late to tell it. REALLY ??!?!?! Lack of ability to share your information just makes me angry. At this point I just wanted Gavril to be bad and go away.
Ashlyn and Ronan are still held to gather by the feelings that either will discuss or even consider. Ronan, puts his life on the line for her and she is willing to risk her safety for his happiness. He reveals a secret about his families position that is heartbreaking. I hope he gets his wish I would love to see these two end up together.
The ending ?!?!?!?!??!?!??! Ms. Armstrong I have enough gray hairs already take it easy on the cliffhanger endings ! Holy tied knots what and ending.
Where is book 3 ? How long must I suffer ?
If you have not read book 1 you must before you you read this one you will be lost.
It was an intense edition to the series. Moria is really put through hard times and suffers awhile trying to find the children taken from her destroyed village. She is used as a pawn. Tyrus and her are labeled as traitors and Asyln and her must be separated.
First let's get to the triangle. I do enjoy a well played triangle with two good choices each having specials bits to offer. Who wouldn't want two gorgeous men to pick from ?Moria with Tyrus or Gavril ? The last book I was Rah Rah **Team Gavril** till that thing happened, I was left with my mouth hanging open and a serious case of the doubts. He was really the one for her, right ? I though so till the book where we get to know the fabulously-sexy and steamy kisser Prince Tyrus. I am so fickle, I know. Tyrus, is kind, he listens, he observes, he respects, and he likes Moria for who she is, and he's a prince. So now I'm Rah Rah **Team Tyrus** I want Tyrus to win the girl ! I think.
So what happened to the children from the girls village in book one ? We still don't know. There were traps set lies told and they are still gone. What was Gavril's reason for what he did ? We still don't know. This was the only part of the story that left me a bit pissy. He had chances to reveal his reasoning, but he was cut off or he skirted the truth till it was too late to tell it. REALLY ??!?!?! Lack of ability to share your information just makes me angry. At this point I just wanted Gavril to be bad and go away.
Ashlyn and Ronan are still held to gather by the feelings that either will discuss or even consider. Ronan, puts his life on the line for her and she is willing to risk her safety for his happiness. He reveals a secret about his families position that is heartbreaking. I hope he gets his wish I would love to see these two end up together.
The ending ?!?!?!?!??!?!??! Ms. Armstrong I have enough gray hairs already take it easy on the cliffhanger endings ! Holy tied knots what and ending.
Where is book 3 ? How long must I suffer ?
March 3, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Empire of Night by Kelley Armstrong
Book Two of the Age of Legends series
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: April 7, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Sisters Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood. Or at least, they were.
Their village is gone. Their friends have betrayed them. And now, the emperor has sent them on a mission to rescue the children of Edgewood—accompanied by Prince Tyrus and a small band of imperial warriors. But the journey proves more perilous than they could have imagined. With treachery and unrest mounting in the empire, Moria and Ashyn will have to draw on all their influence and power to overcome deadly enemies—not all of them human—and even avert an all-out war.
What I Liked:
Guys, I almost don't want to write this review because LET ME CRY AND SUFFER IN PEACE, OKAY?! This one was soooo good. It was amazing and thrilling and heartbreaking and MY FEELS. They are broken. I hate when people talk about their "feels", but right now, it just fits. Sea of Shadows was excellent, and Empire of Night does its predecessor justice. Yes, Empire of Night didn't get five stars from me (like Sea of Shadows did), but that's mostly because of the cliffhanger ending. It's a great ending, but high on the heartbreak and cliffhangers. I did the same with the rating of The Winner's Crime - darn these heartbreaking-ending-sequel novels! Where is the third book, I need it!
Ashyn and Moria are almost-prisoners in the emperor's palace. They hate court life, but they must stay and gain allies and power if they want to find the children of Edgewood. An opportunity is given by the emperor for Moria and Prince Tyrus to rescue the children, and Ashyn comes too. So does Ronan, who basically told Ashyn that he didn't want anything more from the kiss they shared in Sea of Shadows. We all know this is not true, but Ronan is determined to leave Ashyn alone. And Gavril - Gavril has betrayed the empire (and Moria). Moria and Ashyn must find the children, and battle shadow stalkers and other creatures, and watch their backs in the midst of war.
In Sea of Shadows, I loved both Ashyn and Moria. Usually, when we have two female protagonists, I'll like one and dislike one. Not the case with this book. This book is broken into chunks of each girl's third-person perspectives (the girls aren't together all the time, so it's also like there are two separate plots). I think the author focused a smidge more on Moria in this book, but that might just be my perception of the book. I didn't mind at all.
Moria is the fierce warrior of the pair. She is fearless, and guards her heart. She and Gavril cared about each other, but weren't lovers. I had really hoped that they would be A Thing, but their "romance" in book one wasn't a huge thing... it almost wasn't a thing at all. So when Gavril betrays everyone, including Moria, Moria is hurt and angry, but she isn't heartbroken and devastated. She doesn't like mentioning his name though, so, there's that.
I really like the direction of Moria's story in this book. She actually falls for someone else, and it's a palatable, tangible relationship, not like her relationship with Gavril. This guy - Prince Tyrus - has a good heart and a kind soul. I like him a lot. He's brave yet cautious, determined and loyal, and a courageous warrior. He's a bastard prince, but a prince nonetheless. I might have been all OMG-NO-IS-THIS-A-LOVE-TRIANGLE, except that Gavril and Moria were barely A Thing in Sea of Shadows (I kept mentioning how subtle the romance was in that book), and they never did anything... you can tell that Moria genuinely loves Tyrus and vice versa. It's endearing, because Moria is very hardened.
Not like Ashyn. Ashyn is the softer of the two, the healer to her warrior sister. Both of them are fierce and unafraid and forces to be reckoned with, but Ashyn is an anchor, whereas Moria is a rock. Ronan straight-up tells Ashyn that he didn't want more from her, and he didn't want her to want more from him. This hurts Ashyn deeply, and she carries this hurt with her throughout the book. But it's SO OBVIOUS that it's hurting him too. There is a reason why he shut things down, and I don't believe for a second that it's because he doesn't love her or want her. So, I'm pretty optimistic about that relationship. No love triangle there either.
The story is fast-paced and quite engrossing. The book is a tad bit on the long side for Young Adult literature, but I don't mind "long" books - and this one just flies by. Seriously, you'll reach page 300 and by like, wooaaahhh, I've gotten this far already?! It's about 430 pages, but it doesn't feel that long at all. Armstrong has a way with weaving a beautiful story that is interesting and complex and heartbreaking. There is a lot going, not just the search for the children. The politics, the threat of Kitsune, the shadow stalkers... the romance is by no means the central part of the story. There is too much else going on!
Moria, Ashyn, Tyrus, and Ronan set out together to find the children of Edgewood (Tyrus hires Ronan to be a guard of a sort). The group is split up multiple times, and with each time, my heart grew a little heavier. You could tell that something terrifying was going to happen in the end, and separate the group for quite some time. And it does. And my heart broke a little (a LOT).
Heartbreaking. Oh my gosh, don't even get me started. Throughout the book, I was sad for Ashyn and Ronan, because duh, you two belong together (stupid Ronan). I was happy for Tyrus and Moria, because duh, they belong together (and they know it). But then... sad things happen... and I'm SAD! The ending is cruel! Heartbreaking! Cliffhanger-y! Why, Armstrong, why?! I NEED BOOK THREE!
What I Did Not Like:
I'm giving this one four stars (as opposed to five stars) ONLY because of the cliffhanger ending. I hate cliffhangers, I hate waiting, and I hate feeling heartbroken! I love this book, and it's logical, the way the author ended the book, but gosh. I feel like EVERYONE was hurt in some way, physically or emotionally or mentally or something. There is so much going on! That cliffhanger though...
Would I Recommend It:
YES! I would totally recommend this book! And series! Oh my goodness do yourself a favor and read Sea of Shadows! And Empire of Night! Although, I can't blame anyone who might want to wait until closer to book three's release (I'm assuming there will be a book three, though I haven't seen any information about it). There is NO WAY the author can end the series the way this book ends, so I'm just going to go ahead and assume that a book three is in the works. NEED.
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars (remember, this is only because of the cliffhanger). This series definitely will be a favorite series, because fantasy! Subtle romance! Totally shipping the couples! Except... book three will tell all. Seriously, the ending of this book leaves so much to want. Please don't disappoint, Kelley Armstrong!
Empire of Night by Kelley Armstrong
Book Two of the Age of Legends series
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: April 7, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Sisters Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood. Or at least, they were.
Their village is gone. Their friends have betrayed them. And now, the emperor has sent them on a mission to rescue the children of Edgewood—accompanied by Prince Tyrus and a small band of imperial warriors. But the journey proves more perilous than they could have imagined. With treachery and unrest mounting in the empire, Moria and Ashyn will have to draw on all their influence and power to overcome deadly enemies—not all of them human—and even avert an all-out war.
What I Liked:
Guys, I almost don't want to write this review because LET ME CRY AND SUFFER IN PEACE, OKAY?! This one was soooo good. It was amazing and thrilling and heartbreaking and MY FEELS. They are broken. I hate when people talk about their "feels", but right now, it just fits. Sea of Shadows was excellent, and Empire of Night does its predecessor justice. Yes, Empire of Night didn't get five stars from me (like Sea of Shadows did), but that's mostly because of the cliffhanger ending. It's a great ending, but high on the heartbreak and cliffhangers. I did the same with the rating of The Winner's Crime - darn these heartbreaking-ending-sequel novels! Where is the third book, I need it!
Ashyn and Moria are almost-prisoners in the emperor's palace. They hate court life, but they must stay and gain allies and power if they want to find the children of Edgewood. An opportunity is given by the emperor for Moria and Prince Tyrus to rescue the children, and Ashyn comes too. So does Ronan, who basically told Ashyn that he didn't want anything more from the kiss they shared in Sea of Shadows. We all know this is not true, but Ronan is determined to leave Ashyn alone. And Gavril - Gavril has betrayed the empire (and Moria). Moria and Ashyn must find the children, and battle shadow stalkers and other creatures, and watch their backs in the midst of war.
In Sea of Shadows, I loved both Ashyn and Moria. Usually, when we have two female protagonists, I'll like one and dislike one. Not the case with this book. This book is broken into chunks of each girl's third-person perspectives (the girls aren't together all the time, so it's also like there are two separate plots). I think the author focused a smidge more on Moria in this book, but that might just be my perception of the book. I didn't mind at all.
Moria is the fierce warrior of the pair. She is fearless, and guards her heart. She and Gavril cared about each other, but weren't lovers. I had really hoped that they would be A Thing, but their "romance" in book one wasn't a huge thing... it almost wasn't a thing at all. So when Gavril betrays everyone, including Moria, Moria is hurt and angry, but she isn't heartbroken and devastated. She doesn't like mentioning his name though, so, there's that.
I really like the direction of Moria's story in this book. She actually falls for someone else, and it's a palatable, tangible relationship, not like her relationship with Gavril. This guy - Prince Tyrus - has a good heart and a kind soul. I like him a lot. He's brave yet cautious, determined and loyal, and a courageous warrior. He's a bastard prince, but a prince nonetheless. I might have been all OMG-NO-IS-THIS-A-LOVE-TRIANGLE, except that Gavril and Moria were barely A Thing in Sea of Shadows (I kept mentioning how subtle the romance was in that book), and they never did anything... you can tell that Moria genuinely loves Tyrus and vice versa. It's endearing, because Moria is very hardened.
Not like Ashyn. Ashyn is the softer of the two, the healer to her warrior sister. Both of them are fierce and unafraid and forces to be reckoned with, but Ashyn is an anchor, whereas Moria is a rock. Ronan straight-up tells Ashyn that he didn't want more from her, and he didn't want her to want more from him. This hurts Ashyn deeply, and she carries this hurt with her throughout the book. But it's SO OBVIOUS that it's hurting him too. There is a reason why he shut things down, and I don't believe for a second that it's because he doesn't love her or want her. So, I'm pretty optimistic about that relationship. No love triangle there either.
The story is fast-paced and quite engrossing. The book is a tad bit on the long side for Young Adult literature, but I don't mind "long" books - and this one just flies by. Seriously, you'll reach page 300 and by like, wooaaahhh, I've gotten this far already?! It's about 430 pages, but it doesn't feel that long at all. Armstrong has a way with weaving a beautiful story that is interesting and complex and heartbreaking. There is a lot going, not just the search for the children. The politics, the threat of Kitsune, the shadow stalkers... the romance is by no means the central part of the story. There is too much else going on!
Moria, Ashyn, Tyrus, and Ronan set out together to find the children of Edgewood (Tyrus hires Ronan to be a guard of a sort). The group is split up multiple times, and with each time, my heart grew a little heavier. You could tell that something terrifying was going to happen in the end, and separate the group for quite some time. And it does. And my heart broke a little (a LOT).
Heartbreaking. Oh my gosh, don't even get me started. Throughout the book, I was sad for Ashyn and Ronan, because duh, you two belong together (stupid Ronan). I was happy for Tyrus and Moria, because duh, they belong together (and they know it). But then... sad things happen... and I'm SAD! The ending is cruel! Heartbreaking! Cliffhanger-y! Why, Armstrong, why?! I NEED BOOK THREE!
What I Did Not Like:
I'm giving this one four stars (as opposed to five stars) ONLY because of the cliffhanger ending. I hate cliffhangers, I hate waiting, and I hate feeling heartbroken! I love this book, and it's logical, the way the author ended the book, but gosh. I feel like EVERYONE was hurt in some way, physically or emotionally or mentally or something. There is so much going on! That cliffhanger though...
Would I Recommend It:
YES! I would totally recommend this book! And series! Oh my goodness do yourself a favor and read Sea of Shadows! And Empire of Night! Although, I can't blame anyone who might want to wait until closer to book three's release (I'm assuming there will be a book three, though I haven't seen any information about it). There is NO WAY the author can end the series the way this book ends, so I'm just going to go ahead and assume that a book three is in the works. NEED.
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars (remember, this is only because of the cliffhanger). This series definitely will be a favorite series, because fantasy! Subtle romance! Totally shipping the couples! Except... book three will tell all. Seriously, the ending of this book leaves so much to want. Please don't disappoint, Kelley Armstrong!
December 10, 2017
WOW! This book was so so good! Excellent really. I liked Kelley Armstrong's Darkest Powers trilogy as a kid but Kelley's new Age of Legends series is just incredible. So much danger, emotion, and action all in one, with great characters. I was very upset when Empire of Night ended, but only because I wanted to keep reading, and I don't have the third book yet! If you like monsters, sword fights, and strong female characters, with just a tinge of romance, this series is perfect for you. If you have read other novels by Kelley and didn't like them, trust me you will like this one! It is very different from anything Kelley has done before in YA and she did a marvellous job of sucking me into her fantasy meets horror world. It's scary but oh so sweet and captivating. You won't want to leave.
Five stars!
*SPOILER--I think I'm still rooting for Gavril. Anyone else?
Five stars!
*SPOILER--I think I'm still rooting for Gavril. Anyone else?
June 10, 2015
Before:
Can't wait for Gavril's story - he's the most intriguing of all characters, no doubt about it. I just hope there won't be any love triangles in Empire of Night...
And after:
Love triangle it is... And that brings down the rating right off the bat.
I do like Tyrus, don't get me wrong. It's just that he doesn't seem the right match for Moria, and there's too much mushiness in their relationship. I was quite disappointed that Gavril got relegated to a minor role in Empire of Night, and that no light is shed on the events in Sea of Shadows.
There seems to be a lot of wandering around with no clear purpose in this book, some of the secondary characters just clutter the story (Guin is one example, regardless of how touching her background is), Ronan's "revelation" doesn't come as a surprise at all (it was quite obvious from Sea of Shadows that he is casteless), and I'm still trying to make sense of the ending.
Can't wait for Gavril's story - he's the most intriguing of all characters, no doubt about it. I just hope there won't be any love triangles in Empire of Night...
And after:
Love triangle it is... And that brings down the rating right off the bat.
I do like Tyrus, don't get me wrong. It's just that he doesn't seem the right match for Moria, and there's too much mushiness in their relationship. I was quite disappointed that Gavril got relegated to a minor role in Empire of Night, and that no light is shed on the events in Sea of Shadows.
There seems to be a lot of wandering around with no clear purpose in this book, some of the secondary characters just clutter the story (Guin is one example, regardless of how touching her background is), Ronan's "revelation" doesn't come as a surprise at all (it was quite obvious from Sea of Shadows that he is casteless), and I'm still trying to make sense of the ending.
January 28, 2015
HOLY LITERARY FICTION I NEED THE FINAL INSTALLMENT NOW. Review to come closer to release date.
April 4, 2015
Fucking LOVED THIS BOOK HOLY SHIT!!!!!!!!!!! I ANT BELIEVE THEY JUST LEAVE IT LIKE THAT IT IS READY KILLING ME!
July 26, 2015
Review first posted on my blog @ Diamond’s Reads
4.5 stars.
Although I read Sea of Shadows last year, it wasn’t one of my favorite fantasies. I felt like the story was great and it had a ton of potential (the world was amazing) but I mainly felt the best part was the ending/last part of the book. It definitely was a cliffhanger and the last portion of the book really got great and had me really sad it ended. So, when Empire of Night was released I decided to buy a copy (I mean, look at that cover!) because I had a good feeling about it. Plus, I was in the mood for a young woman to kick some ass.
Moria and Ashyn are sisters and Keeper and Seeker, revered positions they are born into and also, I may say, positions that completely fit their personalities. Ashyn is more shy, feminine, and socially graceful…she communes with the spirits. Moria, who also hears the spirits is the warrior who battles them and knows her way around a sword. She’s not so much a romantic, although I’m happy to say she does find love (in all the right places, ahem..) in young bastard prince Tyrus. *sighs* I really love Tyrus. We get a lot more of him in this book. We also see a lot more of Moria. This book (and the last) have chapters split up into both Moria and Ashyn narrators.
So this is what all the fuss is about. This is what the bards sang about. What Ashyn swooned about. And it wasn’t nearly as silly or pointless as she thought.
If you are a high fantasy lover like me, you probably feel as I do about how important balance can be. I really felt like this sequel had balance of romance, adventure, mystery, twists, and friendship/character development that is so important to have in a high fantasy novel. Whereas the last book had more of a world-building / character developing plot with so much back and forth I got a headache this one was way different! I felt that, although Moria did have more emphasis than her sister Ashyn did, I didn’t mind at all. It gave the novel more balance and I really did enjoy seeing Tyrus and Moria fall for each other. They’re so cute! I’ve officially shipped Tyrus + Moria.
Overall I would recommend this series to lovers of high fantasy an badass female characters who have to have their weapons near by…
If you have read Sea of Shadows and liked it (even just a little) you NEED to read this book! It’s excellent and way better than the first book. It’s a series I am excited about and I’m definitely waiting impatiently for the next book!
———
initial reaction after finishing
That ending though….like, WHAT?!?!?!
I remember the exact same reaction after Sea of Shadows, so I guess I can’t be too surprised. CLIFFHANGERS.
-----
4.5 stars.
Although I read Sea of Shadows last year, it wasn’t one of my favorite fantasies. I felt like the story was great and it had a ton of potential (the world was amazing) but I mainly felt the best part was the ending/last part of the book. It definitely was a cliffhanger and the last portion of the book really got great and had me really sad it ended. So, when Empire of Night was released I decided to buy a copy (I mean, look at that cover!) because I had a good feeling about it. Plus, I was in the mood for a young woman to kick some ass.
Moria and Ashyn are sisters and Keeper and Seeker, revered positions they are born into and also, I may say, positions that completely fit their personalities. Ashyn is more shy, feminine, and socially graceful…she communes with the spirits. Moria, who also hears the spirits is the warrior who battles them and knows her way around a sword. She’s not so much a romantic, although I’m happy to say she does find love (in all the right places, ahem..) in young bastard prince Tyrus. *sighs* I really love Tyrus. We get a lot more of him in this book. We also see a lot more of Moria. This book (and the last) have chapters split up into both Moria and Ashyn narrators.
So this is what all the fuss is about. This is what the bards sang about. What Ashyn swooned about. And it wasn’t nearly as silly or pointless as she thought.
If you are a high fantasy lover like me, you probably feel as I do about how important balance can be. I really felt like this sequel had balance of romance, adventure, mystery, twists, and friendship/character development that is so important to have in a high fantasy novel. Whereas the last book had more of a world-building / character developing plot with so much back and forth I got a headache this one was way different! I felt that, although Moria did have more emphasis than her sister Ashyn did, I didn’t mind at all. It gave the novel more balance and I really did enjoy seeing Tyrus and Moria fall for each other. They’re so cute! I’ve officially shipped Tyrus + Moria.
Overall I would recommend this series to lovers of high fantasy an badass female characters who have to have their weapons near by…
If you have read Sea of Shadows and liked it (even just a little) you NEED to read this book! It’s excellent and way better than the first book. It’s a series I am excited about and I’m definitely waiting impatiently for the next book!
———
initial reaction after finishing
That ending though….like, WHAT?!?!?!
I remember the exact same reaction after Sea of Shadows, so I guess I can’t be too surprised. CLIFFHANGERS.
-----
July 12, 2015
Oh my word, this was brilliant!!!
All the problems I had with Sea of Shadows was corrected in this book. Right from the first sentence the descriptions and attention to detail were really really good.
Again, I was surprised so many times during this book, it is very far from being predictible.
I love all the characters.
The ending, omgosh the ending! Please I need the next book as in now!!! April next year is way too far away.
In short this book was amazing!
All the problems I had with Sea of Shadows was corrected in this book. Right from the first sentence the descriptions and attention to detail were really really good.
Again, I was surprised so many times during this book, it is very far from being predictible.
I love all the characters.
The ending, omgosh the ending! Please I need the next book as in now!!! April next year is way too far away.
In short this book was amazing!
May 6, 2021
Ok, so I really enjoyed this, but I don't know how much I would if I wasn't listening on audio. There is a good chance that I would struggle with actually reading the book. But there is something about this series that really draws me in. I've loved the tension between the characters since book one. I'm not super happy right now with the direction that Moria's love life is taking, but maybe that's just me. That ending though. Gives me hope. :)
May 15, 2018
Fantasy, badass fight scenes, and swoon-worthy love interests are my bookish trifecta. Give me badass ladies kicking ass, using magic, and making out and I will be one happy reader. So imagine my delight when Kelley Armstrong's EMPIRE OF NIGHT gave me all three! Since this is the second book in the series, I won’t talk about the plot at all to avoid spoilers. This review mostly concerns itself with world building and characters.
As Keeper and Seeker, Moria and Ashyn occupy a sacred and revered position within the Empire. Their ability to communicate with and help spirits cross to the other side is a powerful one, especially in a society that venerates ancestry and recognizes the presence of spirit in all living things. But they have come to learn that not everyone is happy with the status qu0 in the Empire - and those people are willing to anger the spirits in the name of change…and power.
When I read the first book in this series last year I wasn't as impressed it as I was hoping to be. The Age of Legends series is Kelley Armstrong's first foray into pure fantasy and honestly? It showed. While I loved the characters and the relationships between them (especially twins Moria and Ashyn), the world building in book one left a lot to be desired. So I was concerned that world building would continue to be a stumbling block for EMPIRE OF NIGHT, but I couldn't have been more wrong. This second book in the trilogy is leaps and bounds more sophisticated than the first.
The world in EMPIRE OF NIGHT is clearly rooted in feudal Japan; with last names like Kitsune, Okami, and Tatsu, it’s kind of difficult not to make the connection. But EMPIRE OF NIGHT makes the Japanese and Pan-Asian influences more explicit by clearly incorporating elements of the Samurai Code, the importance of honour, and filial piety into life in the Empire. This is one of the few YA fantasy series I’ve read where the protagonists are white – and they are in the racial minority. All of the major players aside from Moria and Ashyn are people of colour, with the majority of the Empire's population described as having the skin tone and almond-shaped eyes associated with East Asian people. As Northerners of the Empire, Moria and Ashyn are actually stereotyped as unintelligent and uncultured…and some people even stoop so far as to fetishize their ethnicity. I see what you did there, Kelley Armstrong! And I dig it. No one ever said that a YA fantasy trilogy couldn't incorporate social commentary.
I'm not as invested in Ashyn's storyline as I am in Moria's, but I think that has less to do with Ashyn as a character and more with Armstrong's focus on Moria's adventures. We spend more time in Moria's head than we do in Ashyn's, so I haven't developed the same love for her that I have for Moria. That said, I love that Ashyn is an atypical YA heroine: she's reserved, bookish, and even a little bit prim. She’s quite the contrast to her rough-and-tumble, kiss-the-boys-and-make-them-cry sister, and at first I didn’t know what to make of her. EMPIRE OF NIGHT sees Ashyn come into her own and stepping out of Moria’s shadow a bit, becoming more confident in both her intelligence and her fledgling self-defence skills. Ashyn is proof that a “strong female character” doesn’t have to be brash and physical; her strength comes from her mind and her willingness to defend herself, her sister, and her beliefs. #GirlPower
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the romance in EMPIRE OF NIGHT, since it’s important for the series and completely friggin’ adorable. A love triangle emerges between Moria and two dudes who are both equally awesome, both equally hot, and both are an equally good fit for her. Lucky girl! I’ve read enough Kelley Armstrong to be confident in who Moria will end up with, but I can honestly say that I would be happy if she got with either guy. Poor Ashyn’s romantic situation looks bleak, but I have to give her major kudos for how maturely she handles everything. She clearly and calmly tells dudes when they're being jerkfaces and doesn't put up with their crap. Obviously Ashyn has grown on me and I can definitely see her becoming equally as awesome as Moria in the series finale. I can't wait to see how it all goes down!
As Keeper and Seeker, Moria and Ashyn occupy a sacred and revered position within the Empire. Their ability to communicate with and help spirits cross to the other side is a powerful one, especially in a society that venerates ancestry and recognizes the presence of spirit in all living things. But they have come to learn that not everyone is happy with the status qu0 in the Empire - and those people are willing to anger the spirits in the name of change…and power.
When I read the first book in this series last year I wasn't as impressed it as I was hoping to be. The Age of Legends series is Kelley Armstrong's first foray into pure fantasy and honestly? It showed. While I loved the characters and the relationships between them (especially twins Moria and Ashyn), the world building in book one left a lot to be desired. So I was concerned that world building would continue to be a stumbling block for EMPIRE OF NIGHT, but I couldn't have been more wrong. This second book in the trilogy is leaps and bounds more sophisticated than the first.
The world in EMPIRE OF NIGHT is clearly rooted in feudal Japan; with last names like Kitsune, Okami, and Tatsu, it’s kind of difficult not to make the connection. But EMPIRE OF NIGHT makes the Japanese and Pan-Asian influences more explicit by clearly incorporating elements of the Samurai Code, the importance of honour, and filial piety into life in the Empire. This is one of the few YA fantasy series I’ve read where the protagonists are white – and they are in the racial minority. All of the major players aside from Moria and Ashyn are people of colour, with the majority of the Empire's population described as having the skin tone and almond-shaped eyes associated with East Asian people. As Northerners of the Empire, Moria and Ashyn are actually stereotyped as unintelligent and uncultured…and some people even stoop so far as to fetishize their ethnicity. I see what you did there, Kelley Armstrong! And I dig it. No one ever said that a YA fantasy trilogy couldn't incorporate social commentary.
I'm not as invested in Ashyn's storyline as I am in Moria's, but I think that has less to do with Ashyn as a character and more with Armstrong's focus on Moria's adventures. We spend more time in Moria's head than we do in Ashyn's, so I haven't developed the same love for her that I have for Moria. That said, I love that Ashyn is an atypical YA heroine: she's reserved, bookish, and even a little bit prim. She’s quite the contrast to her rough-and-tumble, kiss-the-boys-and-make-them-cry sister, and at first I didn’t know what to make of her. EMPIRE OF NIGHT sees Ashyn come into her own and stepping out of Moria’s shadow a bit, becoming more confident in both her intelligence and her fledgling self-defence skills. Ashyn is proof that a “strong female character” doesn’t have to be brash and physical; her strength comes from her mind and her willingness to defend herself, her sister, and her beliefs. #GirlPower
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the romance in EMPIRE OF NIGHT, since it’s important for the series and completely friggin’ adorable. A love triangle emerges between Moria and two dudes who are both equally awesome, both equally hot, and both are an equally good fit for her. Lucky girl! I’ve read enough Kelley Armstrong to be confident in who Moria will end up with, but I can honestly say that I would be happy if she got with either guy. Poor Ashyn’s romantic situation looks bleak, but I have to give her major kudos for how maturely she handles everything. She clearly and calmly tells dudes when they're being jerkfaces and doesn't put up with their crap. Obviously Ashyn has grown on me and I can definitely see her becoming equally as awesome as Moria in the series finale. I can't wait to see how it all goes down!
February 6, 2017
Loooolllll why did I continue with this series??
"I dunno" is the correct answer.
This book took me a freaking MONTH to read. A. Whole. MONTH. I actually returned it to the library cause I was so done with everything and I wanted to dnf SO BADLY but I borrowed it again like the persevering child I am *pats back* and I somehow managed to finish this.
I know alota people hated the first book, but for some reason the audiobook just infused life into the characters and story. And I mean, yeaaaahhhh, the pacing was awkward and the plot was slow but, BUT, I liked Moria and Gavril's banter, and I liked how cute and innocent Ashyn was (I like reading bout characters that are immature-er than me cause it gives me a good self esteem boost)
(Yeah I know I'm a proud lil prick)
(DEAL WITH IT)
(I mean that in the kindest way possible *apologizes profusely if I offended someone*)
So I mean, the first book wasn't terrible. Good even, as an audiobook. It entertained me while I was running, so it fulfilled its purpose.
(Not like that monstrosity A Thousand Pieces of You, don't even get me STARTED.)
Buuuuuuttttt, as a book-book, this series sucked.
There WERE interesting parts, but for some reason I just noticed how stilted and slow it was.
IT
WAS
SO
SO
SO
SO
...
SOOOOOOOO
...
...
*so slow you forget to finish your sentence*
...
"Oh, right-"
...
SLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
I'm getting tired just thinking about it. It's like, SO MUCH STUFF happens and it's BIG and GRAND and LIFE-ALTERING and I was just like "Ummm...?"
Kelley Armstrong has an impressive talent for turning a story with lots of individually interesting parts into the most boring lump of a plot the world has ever seen.
To top it off-
Ronan was a dick. Gavril was a dick. Ashyn was annoying and indecisive. Moria was the only thing I even KINDA liked, and she was pretty annoying too.
Everything I like about the guys in SoS went splitty-SPLAT in this book. Gavril was rude and dishonest and betrayed Moria and I was so done with him.
AND Ronan, do not get me STARTED!!! GRRRRRRRRRRRR I CANT BELIEVE HE WAS LEADING ON ASHYN I THOUGHT HE LIKED HER BUT NOOOOOOO, OF COURSE NOT, WE NEED "ROMANTIC TENSION"
I will admit, I liked Tyrus. Buuuuuuttt I want Moria and Gavril!! So he annoys me too.
Also, everyone in this book is SO. FREAKING POLITE. GAH.
It is just so awkward reading their conversations like pleaaaassssseeee somewhat slap some life into these people!
Ironically I have already borrowed the final book from my library. Not ironically, it was available, unlike most books I wanna read at the library, showing just how little people are interested in this lame fantasy. As they should be.
I'm still gonna finish this trilogy tho. Cuz I hate myself, I guess.
"I dunno" is the correct answer.
This book took me a freaking MONTH to read. A. Whole. MONTH. I actually returned it to the library cause I was so done with everything and I wanted to dnf SO BADLY but I borrowed it again like the persevering child I am *pats back* and I somehow managed to finish this.
I know alota people hated the first book, but for some reason the audiobook just infused life into the characters and story. And I mean, yeaaaahhhh, the pacing was awkward and the plot was slow but, BUT, I liked Moria and Gavril's banter, and I liked how cute and innocent Ashyn was (I like reading bout characters that are immature-er than me cause it gives me a good self esteem boost)
(Yeah I know I'm a proud lil prick)
(DEAL WITH IT)
(I mean that in the kindest way possible *apologizes profusely if I offended someone*)
So I mean, the first book wasn't terrible. Good even, as an audiobook. It entertained me while I was running, so it fulfilled its purpose.
(Not like that monstrosity A Thousand Pieces of You, don't even get me STARTED.)
Buuuuuuttttt, as a book-book, this series sucked.
There WERE interesting parts, but for some reason I just noticed how stilted and slow it was.
IT
WAS
SO
SO
SO
SO
...
SOOOOOOOO
...
...
*so slow you forget to finish your sentence*
...
"Oh, right-"
...
SLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
I'm getting tired just thinking about it. It's like, SO MUCH STUFF happens and it's BIG and GRAND and LIFE-ALTERING and I was just like "Ummm...?"
Kelley Armstrong has an impressive talent for turning a story with lots of individually interesting parts into the most boring lump of a plot the world has ever seen.
To top it off-
Ronan was a dick. Gavril was a dick. Ashyn was annoying and indecisive. Moria was the only thing I even KINDA liked, and she was pretty annoying too.
Everything I like about the guys in SoS went splitty-SPLAT in this book. Gavril was rude and dishonest and betrayed Moria and I was so done with him.
AND Ronan, do not get me STARTED!!! GRRRRRRRRRRRR I CANT BELIEVE HE WAS LEADING ON ASHYN I THOUGHT HE LIKED HER BUT NOOOOOOO, OF COURSE NOT, WE NEED "ROMANTIC TENSION"
I will admit, I liked Tyrus. Buuuuuuttt I want Moria and Gavril!! So he annoys me too.
Also, everyone in this book is SO. FREAKING POLITE. GAH.
It is just so awkward reading their conversations like pleaaaassssseeee somewhat slap some life into these people!
Ironically I have already borrowed the final book from my library. Not ironically, it was available, unlike most books I wanna read at the library, showing just how little people are interested in this lame fantasy. As they should be.
I'm still gonna finish this trilogy tho. Cuz I hate myself, I guess.
Want to read
August 12, 2016OMG! The cover is so gorgeous!
November 24, 2021
I know I reviewed the first book on Monday, but I am zinging through this series! I'm already halfway finished with the third and final book, Forest of Ruin. It's crazy intense and wonderfully fantastical. I am in love with the characters and the world Kelley Armstrong has created. I feel like I'm on the long and arduous journey with them, and I'm increasingly worried about their safety. They no longer know who they can trust, and they keep finding bodies that are broken, shredded, or unrecognizable. Beasts from stories and lore are appearing with more frequency, so I'm pretty confident the dismemberments and disappearances will continue.
Although dark and dangerous, Armstrong has written a story that has completely captivated my mind. She has given the characters a rich history and an authenticity that makes me feel as if I've known them my entire life. I cannot wait to see how everything ends!
Although dark and dangerous, Armstrong has written a story that has completely captivated my mind. She has given the characters a rich history and an authenticity that makes me feel as if I've known them my entire life. I cannot wait to see how everything ends!
June 19, 2015
*Genre* Young Adult, Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Empire of the Night is the sequel to Sea of Shadows and the second installment in the Age of Legends series. Told in alternating narratives, Sisters Moria and Ashyn, the former Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood, find themselves cloistered within Emperor Tatsu's palace. All but prisoners who aren't supposed to leave the palace without permission, the sisters grow increasing bitter at their situation. Especially since the Emperor's Keeper and Seeker have had nothing to do with them since they arrived.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews Friday, June 19, 2015
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
Published: April 7th 2015 by HarperCollins
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Empire of the Night is the sequel to Sea of Shadows and the second installment in the Age of Legends series. Told in alternating narratives, Sisters Moria and Ashyn, the former Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood, find themselves cloistered within Emperor Tatsu's palace. All but prisoners who aren't supposed to leave the palace without permission, the sisters grow increasing bitter at their situation. Especially since the Emperor's Keeper and Seeker have had nothing to do with them since they arrived.
*Full Review Posted @ Gizmos Reviews Friday, June 19, 2015
http://www.gizmosreviews.blogspot.com...
Published: April 7th 2015 by HarperCollins
April 16, 2015
I like this book although it had a really dark and creepy beginning the story developed quite well. I rarely like all of the characters in a story but; I like all the characters in this book. Enjoyed reading both views of the twins and really liked their characteristics. Moria is still my favorite she's witty, resourceful and really a strong character. If you like the first book you'r going to like this too. It's written so well and it's easy to follow. Looking forward in reading the next book.
December 2, 2016
OH MY GOD!!!!! What a book!!! Guys please read it. I truly don't know why this series is not more popular. It's so amazing.
Great characters, great world building, great plot GREAT LOVE TRIANGLE!!!! I don't usually like love triangles but in this case I can't even choose which guy I like better.
And we get some great new characters in this one and I really hope to see more of them in the next book.
The only thing I didn't like in this one was Ronan. He's not that bad but he annoys me sometimes :/
Great characters, great world building, great plot GREAT LOVE TRIANGLE!!!! I don't usually like love triangles but in this case I can't even choose which guy I like better.
And we get some great new characters in this one and I really hope to see more of them in the next book.
The only thing I didn't like in this one was Ronan. He's not that bad but he annoys me sometimes :/
February 21, 2017
This review was originally posted at https://freadomlibrary.wordpress.com/
Check out my series review here: https://freadomlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Critically
Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
This book picked up the pace a bit more and it’s much more action packed as well. Thankfully, there’s much more information on the world and how the empire they live in actually works. It’s still a bit confusing though with this second book, I’m definitely getting the hang of things. There’s more romance in this one, lots of twists and turns and monsters. It was definitely a lot more exciting than the first book.
Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
The writing style is, luckily, really easy to read and has a steady pace to go along with the plot. It’s really descriptive and detailed though it can still get kind of confusing sometimes. It’s really verbose and old fashioned. The characters voices sound much older than they are because of the way their empire is. However, the world building has definitely improved in this one and things make much more sense.
Characters – 3.5 out of 5 stars
This is still the section in which I’m struggling with the most in this series which sucks because characters are my favorite parts of books. Though it’s definitely improved from the first book as well.
Moria is really freaking angry in this book. The ending of the last book kind of shook her and she’s now questioning the things she thought were right. She’s hurt and she feels betrayed. However, she’s still smart and confident in who she is and the plot of this book pushes her to become much more open and honest.
While I’m not the biggest fan of Ashyn, I really like the development she had in this book. She’s much more confident and much more outgoing but without losing her personality and the person that she is. She’s still smart and is becoming much more aware of her surroundings but still can’t really fight and is overprotected by some of the male characters.
There are more side characters added in this book, much more than I was expecting, but at the same time, they’re all fleshed out much more than in the first book. I enjoyed that there was much more development for all of the characters.
Emotionally
Check out my series review here: https://freadomlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Critically
Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
This book picked up the pace a bit more and it’s much more action packed as well. Thankfully, there’s much more information on the world and how the empire they live in actually works. It’s still a bit confusing though with this second book, I’m definitely getting the hang of things. There’s more romance in this one, lots of twists and turns and monsters. It was definitely a lot more exciting than the first book.
Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
The writing style is, luckily, really easy to read and has a steady pace to go along with the plot. It’s really descriptive and detailed though it can still get kind of confusing sometimes. It’s really verbose and old fashioned. The characters voices sound much older than they are because of the way their empire is. However, the world building has definitely improved in this one and things make much more sense.
Characters – 3.5 out of 5 stars
This is still the section in which I’m struggling with the most in this series which sucks because characters are my favorite parts of books. Though it’s definitely improved from the first book as well.
Moria is really freaking angry in this book. The ending of the last book kind of shook her and she’s now questioning the things she thought were right. She’s hurt and she feels betrayed. However, she’s still smart and confident in who she is and the plot of this book pushes her to become much more open and honest.
While I’m not the biggest fan of Ashyn, I really like the development she had in this book. She’s much more confident and much more outgoing but without losing her personality and the person that she is. She’s still smart and is becoming much more aware of her surroundings but still can’t really fight and is overprotected by some of the male characters.
There are more side characters added in this book, much more than I was expecting, but at the same time, they’re all fleshed out much more than in the first book. I enjoyed that there was much more development for all of the characters.
Emotionally
May 17, 2017
I read the first book so long ago. I was really worried that it was going to be hard to jump back into this series, but man was I wrong. Empire of Night was an absolute thrill ride, and I'm so glad that I decided to finish this series.
I forgot how much I loved Moira and Ashyn. They're both so unique and different but they both have qualities about them that makes me love them. Moira was probably my favourite of the two, she's as adventurous and stubborn as always, and never ceases to get herself into trouble. Ashyn is the calmer, and more logical of the two, I adore how she knows exactly what to do and say in any situation. Seeing their story progress and their character development further was really great to read about. Both sisters were tricked in their romance aspect in the first book, and seeing how they deal with that in different ways was wonderful, it really made them come to life and be imperfectly human.
The storyline in this book was much better, there was no confusing beginnings or boring parts. The action basically stars at the beginning and continues at a regular pace throughout the whole book. It's not a crazy amount of action (ie. if you're an action fan, this ones probably not for you), but its enough action to keep you engaged in the story.
Fair warning, this book does have a cliff-hanger ending (sort of). I'm dying to pick up the last book and find out what happens to both of the sisters and where their story lets off.
I highly recommend this series to all fantasy fans. It's an amazing read that will have you falling in love with the characters and the world that Kelley created.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
I forgot how much I loved Moira and Ashyn. They're both so unique and different but they both have qualities about them that makes me love them. Moira was probably my favourite of the two, she's as adventurous and stubborn as always, and never ceases to get herself into trouble. Ashyn is the calmer, and more logical of the two, I adore how she knows exactly what to do and say in any situation. Seeing their story progress and their character development further was really great to read about. Both sisters were tricked in their romance aspect in the first book, and seeing how they deal with that in different ways was wonderful, it really made them come to life and be imperfectly human.
The storyline in this book was much better, there was no confusing beginnings or boring parts. The action basically stars at the beginning and continues at a regular pace throughout the whole book. It's not a crazy amount of action (ie. if you're an action fan, this ones probably not for you), but its enough action to keep you engaged in the story.
Fair warning, this book does have a cliff-hanger ending (sort of). I'm dying to pick up the last book and find out what happens to both of the sisters and where their story lets off.
I highly recommend this series to all fantasy fans. It's an amazing read that will have you falling in love with the characters and the world that Kelley created.
Happy Reading,
Aneta
April 16, 2019
🌛 Gavril kind of reminds me of Maven from "Red Queen"
🌜 Oh, God please no!😭
🌛 😍
🌜 AGAIN WITH THE ENDING 😱😨
🌜 Oh, God please no!😭
🌛 😍
🌜 AGAIN WITH THE ENDING 😱😨
July 4, 2022
Really enjoyed this sequel! There was one thing that mildly got on my nerves and something else that has me truly conflicted. But everything else was great.
June 2, 2015
This book was so disappointing.
In fact, if I’m completely honest, this whole series has been one big disappointment. My love for Kelley Armstrong and all her other books is probably the only reason why I’m bothering to read it at all…and why I will read the third book as well.
Empire of the Night continues with the twins’, Moria and Ashyn, search for the missing children of Edgewood, their home village, which was attacked by shadow stalkers (deadly, evil, human-possessing spirit thingies). Accompanied by Emperor Tatsu’s men, including Prince Tyrus and our favourite rebel Ronan, the party make their way to meet Alvar Kitsune, the man who has been accused of raising the shadow stalkers and kidnapping the children. Alvar Kitsune also being the father of Gavril Kitsune, one of my favourite characters from the first book.
That’s where we start off…it trails off into unknown places after that.
What happens next is a combination of:
The missing children become an afterthought; completely forgotten.
There is a lot of running around aimlessly and a lot of horse riding – like a lot.
There’s more reincarnation of ‘mythical’ creatures – yawn.
And further kidnappings of the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood; this time it’s Moria’s turn, since it was Ashyn in the first book - TWICE.
Yes, Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker. Whatever that really means. As this series continues on, I still don’t see the whole point of it. What Seeking and Keeping do these chicks actually do?! It’s only convenient when they get kidnapped or when they need to be respected or disrespected…
Midway through the book I was bored out of my mind. And then Gavril turned up, but his actions were horrible and I was like…erm…okay…then…
There was a lot of overt mushiness in this book too, which, considering I’m a lover of romance, shouldn’t have bothered me. It did. That might have been because I was becoming impatient for something, anything, to happen, but it wouldn’t!
In fact, if I’m completely honest, this whole series has been one big disappointment. My love for Kelley Armstrong and all her other books is probably the only reason why I’m bothering to read it at all…and why I will read the third book as well.
Empire of the Night continues with the twins’, Moria and Ashyn, search for the missing children of Edgewood, their home village, which was attacked by shadow stalkers (deadly, evil, human-possessing spirit thingies). Accompanied by Emperor Tatsu’s men, including Prince Tyrus and our favourite rebel Ronan, the party make their way to meet Alvar Kitsune, the man who has been accused of raising the shadow stalkers and kidnapping the children. Alvar Kitsune also being the father of Gavril Kitsune, one of my favourite characters from the first book.
That’s where we start off…it trails off into unknown places after that.
What happens next is a combination of:
The missing children become an afterthought; completely forgotten.
There is a lot of running around aimlessly and a lot of horse riding – like a lot.
There’s more reincarnation of ‘mythical’ creatures – yawn.
And further kidnappings of the Keeper and Seeker of Edgewood; this time it’s Moria’s turn, since it was Ashyn in the first book - TWICE.
Yes, Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and Seeker. Whatever that really means. As this series continues on, I still don’t see the whole point of it. What Seeking and Keeping do these chicks actually do?! It’s only convenient when they get kidnapped or when they need to be respected or disrespected…
Midway through the book I was bored out of my mind. And then Gavril turned up, but his actions were horrible and I was like…erm…okay…then…
There was a lot of overt mushiness in this book too, which, considering I’m a lover of romance, shouldn’t have bothered me. It did. That might have been because I was becoming impatient for something, anything, to happen, but it wouldn’t!
May 1, 2015
Started off strong, and then disintegrated. Super disappointed. Barely skimmed the last hundred pages because I was so bored. Sad, considering this was one of my highly anticipated reads for this spring.
April 17, 2015
Rating: 4.25/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
October 7, 2015
Holy SHISH!!!!!!! I need the next book now thanks
June 19, 2016
This was such a good sequel! So enthralling, fast paced, and action-packed. I loved it!
August 27, 2017
3.25 stars.
It took me way too long to finish this. Over 2 weeks. I kept picking it up, reading a chapter and then going back to other books. The beginning was very slow, but towards the half way point, it got so much better. I really like the characters, especially Tyrus. I also really loved Guin and hope we might see a reappearance from her in the next book. I won't go into too much plot details as it's the second book so I don't want to spoil anything, but I'm happy with where this series is going and I'm looking forward to the final book in the trilogy.
It took me way too long to finish this. Over 2 weeks. I kept picking it up, reading a chapter and then going back to other books. The beginning was very slow, but towards the half way point, it got so much better. I really like the characters, especially Tyrus. I also really loved Guin and hope we might see a reappearance from her in the next book. I won't go into too much plot details as it's the second book so I don't want to spoil anything, but I'm happy with where this series is going and I'm looking forward to the final book in the trilogy.
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