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Silver Shadows #1
Darksoul
Seventeen-year-old Hazel Lisle has a problem. Or two. Or three.
Problem number Asher Evans, her best friend and long-time crush. A lover of piercings with tan skin and a posh British accent, he’s spunky, fun, dirty-mouthed...and clearly more than what he seems.
Then there is Hunter Slade. Cold. Infuriating. Unreadable. He knows just how to work her last nerve. But under his calm, impassive mask, he’s hiding a terrible secret of his own.
Hunter and Ash are the least of Hazel’s worries. Someone is out to kill her, and she has no idea why. Monsters seem to come from left and right. Invisible wings follow her everywhere she goes. There’s a voice, soft and strangely familiar, inside her head. After a series of scary encounters, Hazel doesn't know who or what to believe. Only one thing is for She will not go down without a fight.
**Due to strong language and crude sexual themes, this book is only recommended for readers ages 16 and up.**
Problem number Asher Evans, her best friend and long-time crush. A lover of piercings with tan skin and a posh British accent, he’s spunky, fun, dirty-mouthed...and clearly more than what he seems.
Then there is Hunter Slade. Cold. Infuriating. Unreadable. He knows just how to work her last nerve. But under his calm, impassive mask, he’s hiding a terrible secret of his own.
Hunter and Ash are the least of Hazel’s worries. Someone is out to kill her, and she has no idea why. Monsters seem to come from left and right. Invisible wings follow her everywhere she goes. There’s a voice, soft and strangely familiar, inside her head. After a series of scary encounters, Hazel doesn't know who or what to believe. Only one thing is for She will not go down without a fight.
**Due to strong language and crude sexual themes, this book is only recommended for readers ages 16 and up.**
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2014
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1084 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
March 1, 2015
Oh my god guys. Guys. Believe me when I say that I really wanted to like this book.
Because I sincerely wanted to like this book.Hell, I was searching for ways to read the early copy online on Wattpad because of the reviews and the intrigue it had built.
But it was so repetitive. So damn repetitive.
Little things, like Hazel's "long-ish bangs" and Asher's "left-handed scrawl" and Hunter's constant calling her flatter than cardboard, her very plain, very simple face that was "too damn easy to draw" or something.
It gets to you sometimes when these things are constantly being repeated.
Hazel was a well-enough written character. I liked that she did not go uncensored, so points for that. Though there were some things she said that made me cringe and stop reading or completely ignore for a bit. I liked the fact that she wanted to stand up for herself and actually fight instead of waiting for some angel jerk to show up. The fact that she's not willing to be weak made me happy. However I found she did a lot of stupid things and said as much, too. A lot of awkward situations could have been completely avoided. But I guess that's the point of a book, whoops.
Then there's her crush on Asher, which isn't going so hot.Mostly because he's a playboy with a tongue piercing with a new girl every 3 minutes and an English accent but also because he has a mouth I never want to go near no matter how punk rock he may seem. See he's supposed to be her best friend but he doesn't really act like it. If anything, I find myself think he hurts her--whether it's his intention or not--more than being an actual friend to her. He leads her on and even though Hazel realises it's nothing serious and he's just playing around, which I am oh so thankful for he doesn't seem to take in how it could be affecting her.
Hunter is just plain rude. I don't know why Hazel puts up with him. More than half the time he's insulting her lack of feminine features or her unrequited love for Asher, or calling her a goddamn mouse. Hunter, dear, boobs--or lack thereof--don't make a girl who she is. You realise that right? And being a fucking jerk? No, no, don't get in your head that girls like that because they don't. Well, maybe in a fictional sense because they are appealing, but you take it to a whole new level. To say I found Hunter misleading is an understatement.
Usually when you have two guys mentioned in a synopsis, your brain immediately sends the signal, "A LOVE TRIANGLE!!!" And while there's not, it basically seems that way, if you ask me. Though there's no real sexual tension happening between her, and I emphasise real for a reason.
There's nothing with her and Asher either, which is just as well because he's a player, a prick, and I really don't know where he gets that tongue. Horrific what comes out of there.
Speaking of the kinky remarks, there were a lot. I'm completely up for a shitload of cursing because, let's face it, we all do it. So at first it was a great thing because it would correctly depict my language use. Then there are some things I would never say, let alone my other friends. Like, I didn't know people would actually go about saying the things Hazel had thought about Hunter after their first-ish encounters.
Hazel never asks the right questions either. She's totally taking the wrong approaches with Asher. Hell, I really don't think liking Asher is a good thing.
I don't know if this is really a spoiler because I feel it was obvious and could be seen from a mile away, but I'll mark it as such anyway.
Just ugh. It's kind of hard to explain my feelings about this book because I was really excited and now I'm just really disappointed. I wish Hazel acted differently. I wish Hunter was as least slightly civil. I wish Asher would stop being such a hormonal player for once and take something seriously. I wish you could actually differentiate Asher and Hunter.
I will still be reading the series and the entire book when it comes out. But as of now, I'm sticking with this rating.
I now see why my friend told me never to trust a boy whose name is Hunter. Or Asher.
-----
My friend always told me never to trust a boy named Hunter.
Or Asher.
Because I sincerely wanted to like this book.
But it was so repetitive. So damn repetitive.
Little things, like Hazel's "long-ish bangs" and Asher's "left-handed scrawl" and Hunter's constant calling her flatter than cardboard, her very plain, very simple face that was "too damn easy to draw" or something.
It gets to you sometimes when these things are constantly being repeated.
Hazel was a well-enough written character. I liked that she did not go uncensored, so points for that. Though there were some things she said that made me cringe and stop reading or completely ignore for a bit. I liked the fact that she wanted to stand up for herself and actually fight instead of waiting for some angel jerk to show up. The fact that she's not willing to be weak made me happy. However I found she did a lot of stupid things and said as much, too. A lot of awkward situations could have been completely avoided. But I guess that's the point of a book, whoops.
Then there's her crush on Asher, which isn't going so hot.
Hunter is just plain rude. I don't know why Hazel puts up with him. More than half the time he's insulting her lack of feminine features or her unrequited love for Asher, or calling her a goddamn mouse. Hunter, dear, boobs--or lack thereof--don't make a girl who she is. You realise that right? And being a fucking jerk? No, no, don't get in your head that girls like that because they don't. Well, maybe in a fictional sense because they are appealing, but you take it to a whole new level. To say I found Hunter misleading is an understatement.
Usually when you have two guys mentioned in a synopsis, your brain immediately sends the signal, "A LOVE TRIANGLE!!!" And while there's not, it basically seems that way, if you ask me. Though there's no real sexual tension happening between her, and I emphasise real for a reason.
There's nothing with her and Asher either, which is just as well because he's a player, a prick, and I really don't know where he gets that tongue. Horrific what comes out of there.
Speaking of the kinky remarks, there were a lot. I'm completely up for a shitload of cursing because, let's face it, we all do it. So at first it was a great thing because it would correctly depict my language use. Then there are some things I would never say, let alone my other friends. Like, I didn't know people would actually go about saying the things Hazel had thought about Hunter after their first-ish encounters.
Hazel never asks the right questions either. She's totally taking the wrong approaches with Asher. Hell, I really don't think liking Asher is a good thing.
I don't know if this is really a spoiler because I feel it was obvious and could be seen from a mile away, but I'll mark it as such anyway.
Just ugh. It's kind of hard to explain my feelings about this book because I was really excited and now I'm just really disappointed. I wish Hazel acted differently. I wish Hunter was as least slightly civil. I wish Asher would stop being such a hormonal player for once and take something seriously. I wish you could actually differentiate Asher and Hunter.
I will still be reading the series and the entire book when it comes out. But as of now, I'm sticking with this rating.
I now see why my friend told me never to trust a boy whose name is Hunter. Or Asher.
-----
My friend always told me never to trust a boy named Hunter.
Or Asher.
November 8, 2014
Far more questions than answers
I feel that this book has a lot of potential, there was a lot of personalities that I really liked in this book, and the concept overall was creative, but there just seem to be more questions than answers at the end of the book. I'm still very confused as to certain relationship dynamics and different histories of characters and things like that. I feel like this book could've been better if there were parts that were more descriptive and if it was more cohesive. it certainly seem to be a little choppy and I found myself rereading sentences and even paragraphs so I could understand exactly what was going on with the characters.again, I think there was a lot of great potential here and there were just some technical things and overall plot things that needed to be worked on. I really wanted this book to be good, I really thought that eventually my questions would get answered given the length of it. I did unfortunately, find myself very disappointed and feeling like I wasted my time when I finally read the last sentence. My advice to the author would be to go back and do a rewrite of the book and add more descriptions about specific characters and be a little more clear about the history of them. I'm assuming the intention is for this to be a series, so I wouldn't expect every question to be answered but at least some should be answered by the end of the book.
I feel that this book has a lot of potential, there was a lot of personalities that I really liked in this book, and the concept overall was creative, but there just seem to be more questions than answers at the end of the book. I'm still very confused as to certain relationship dynamics and different histories of characters and things like that. I feel like this book could've been better if there were parts that were more descriptive and if it was more cohesive. it certainly seem to be a little choppy and I found myself rereading sentences and even paragraphs so I could understand exactly what was going on with the characters.again, I think there was a lot of great potential here and there were just some technical things and overall plot things that needed to be worked on. I really wanted this book to be good, I really thought that eventually my questions would get answered given the length of it. I did unfortunately, find myself very disappointed and feeling like I wasted my time when I finally read the last sentence. My advice to the author would be to go back and do a rewrite of the book and add more descriptions about specific characters and be a little more clear about the history of them. I'm assuming the intention is for this to be a series, so I wouldn't expect every question to be answered but at least some should be answered by the end of the book.
January 23, 2015
3.5 stars
I want to love this book, and part of me does, like a lot. I love the characters and I love where the plot is going, but it ended up falling short somewhere for me. I felt slightly confused at times, like certain parts weren't flushed out properly. That said I am dying to read book two, because I'm hoping it fills out whatever I felt was missing here.
I want to love this book, and part of me does, like a lot. I love the characters and I love where the plot is going, but it ended up falling short somewhere for me. I felt slightly confused at times, like certain parts weren't flushed out properly. That said I am dying to read book two, because I'm hoping it fills out whatever I felt was missing here.
January 12, 2015
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Darksoul is the first book in the young adult paranormal series, Silver Shadows. There are so many things that I absolutely loved about this book. I thought for a long time while reading that it was going to get an easy 5 stars from me. But there was one detractor- the guys in this story are so confusing! I mean really confusing. But even so, I loved Darksoul. I got swept up in the world of angels and half demons. This is not like any angel book I have ever read before. It is not religious at all, and not even really spiritual. It is just paranormal, and well, cool.
I do have to point something out kind of quick. I know everyone is saying that there is no love triangle in this story....but....I kind of beg to differ. Hunter and and Ash and their dynamic and with Hazel is basically what this whole story is about. And it is oh so clear that they each care about her. And trust me, even if she doesn't declare her love for both of them, there is enough back and forth to make it love triangle-esque. At least in my opinion. That isn't to say that I didn't enjoy it. I loved the story and Hunter and Ash are a big part of why I loved it so much. Speaking of the two of them, they are each great guys. I am in lurvvee with Hunter and I am a full shipper of Hunter/Hazel. Ash is great too and there isn't even really any reason why I don't want him with Hazel, its' just that he is not Hunter. We don't get any answers on this love front in the first book so don't worry I am not ruining anything. But prepare to be confused by each of the guys. They are brooding and confusing as heck and very closed off a lot of the time. One of them is a an angel and the other is a demon and for most of the book, I had them confused as to who was who. Because of them. Because they are that confusing.
Eveline Hunt did a fantastic job of drawing the reader into her world. I am so invested in these characters, I can't wait to see what is going to happen in the next book. I WANT THE NEXT BOOK NOW! The world that Eveline Hunt created is rich and very complex. I loved visiting the demon realm and the in-between realm and I loved, loved, loved all of Hunter's little creatures. Watching their emotions were some of my favorite scenes in the book. Like I said before, this is not your average YA angels book. Not even close. If you have never found an angel story to be your cup of tea, try Darksoul. I think you will really like it. I know I did.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Darksoul is the first book in the young adult paranormal series, Silver Shadows. There are so many things that I absolutely loved about this book. I thought for a long time while reading that it was going to get an easy 5 stars from me. But there was one detractor- the guys in this story are so confusing! I mean really confusing. But even so, I loved Darksoul. I got swept up in the world of angels and half demons. This is not like any angel book I have ever read before. It is not religious at all, and not even really spiritual. It is just paranormal, and well, cool.
I do have to point something out kind of quick. I know everyone is saying that there is no love triangle in this story....but....I kind of beg to differ. Hunter and and Ash and their dynamic and with Hazel is basically what this whole story is about. And it is oh so clear that they each care about her. And trust me, even if she doesn't declare her love for both of them, there is enough back and forth to make it love triangle-esque. At least in my opinion. That isn't to say that I didn't enjoy it. I loved the story and Hunter and Ash are a big part of why I loved it so much. Speaking of the two of them, they are each great guys. I am in lurvvee with Hunter and I am a full shipper of Hunter/Hazel. Ash is great too and there isn't even really any reason why I don't want him with Hazel, its' just that he is not Hunter. We don't get any answers on this love front in the first book so don't worry I am not ruining anything. But prepare to be confused by each of the guys. They are brooding and confusing as heck and very closed off a lot of the time. One of them is a an angel and the other is a demon and for most of the book, I had them confused as to who was who. Because of them. Because they are that confusing.
Eveline Hunt did a fantastic job of drawing the reader into her world. I am so invested in these characters, I can't wait to see what is going to happen in the next book. I WANT THE NEXT BOOK NOW! The world that Eveline Hunt created is rich and very complex. I loved visiting the demon realm and the in-between realm and I loved, loved, loved all of Hunter's little creatures. Watching their emotions were some of my favorite scenes in the book. Like I said before, this is not your average YA angels book. Not even close. If you have never found an angel story to be your cup of tea, try Darksoul. I think you will really like it. I know I did.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
September 10, 2015
So my first thought after finishing this was.....This is a Wattpad book? I mean I enjoy them enough, but let's be real here, a lot of wattpad books are jack crap. The only thing that could've possibly tipped me off is that the main character of the book is a snarky, quirky smartass and a lot of wattpad protagonists seem to have that in common.
That being said. I'm not really sure what to say about the book. It was not what I was expecting. At all. For one, I expected some super cheesy love triangle.
There was no love triangle.
I expected the main character to immediately melt in the arms of a hot guy, as they usually do.
She didn't.
I thought the book would be the same as any other angel/demon book out there.
It wasn't.
These things made me very happen. It's not so often that a hot, brooding guy shows up, and he doesn't end up being a love interest. And not because he's gay or has a girlfriend, but because their relationship is platonic. Now he secretly had feelings for her, but it wasn't done in an obnoxious way where he's making moon- eyes at her every second and being pathetic.
Now the main character, Hazel....she was, as I said, quirky, snarky, and a smartass. Also extremely dense at times and a bit naive. She doesn't ask enough questions, just says "oh you're an angel, how cool, teach me to fight. Wait, what exactly am I? How come Mom has been lying to me about the fact I'm not really her daughter?" Simple questions like these could easily be asked, but the girl's attention span is too short to actually question these things. But I like how at the end she grew some balls and verbally --and also physically-- slapped Ash and Hunter in the face and told them to get their crap together, that she wasn't a toy to be played with. Finally someone doesn't forget all the wrong someone does just because said person is super hot.
Now this book wasn't the best and it wasn't that...deep one might say. But hell, it was entertaining. There was no love triangle. Main character was dense but also amusing. And the angel thing wasn't done in a horrible way. 4 stars, mostly because I was highly amused during most of the book. Now if more people stopped with the love triangles and upped the entertainment factor, maybe they'd get 4 stars from me too.
That being said. I'm not really sure what to say about the book. It was not what I was expecting. At all. For one, I expected some super cheesy love triangle.
There was no love triangle.
I expected the main character to immediately melt in the arms of a hot guy, as they usually do.
She didn't.
I thought the book would be the same as any other angel/demon book out there.
It wasn't.
These things made me very happen. It's not so often that a hot, brooding guy shows up, and he doesn't end up being a love interest. And not because he's gay or has a girlfriend, but because their relationship is platonic. Now he secretly had feelings for her, but it wasn't done in an obnoxious way where he's making moon- eyes at her every second and being pathetic.
Now the main character, Hazel....she was, as I said, quirky, snarky, and a smartass. Also extremely dense at times and a bit naive. She doesn't ask enough questions, just says "oh you're an angel, how cool, teach me to fight. Wait, what exactly am I? How come Mom has been lying to me about the fact I'm not really her daughter?" Simple questions like these could easily be asked, but the girl's attention span is too short to actually question these things. But I like how at the end she grew some balls and verbally --and also physically-- slapped Ash and Hunter in the face and told them to get their crap together, that she wasn't a toy to be played with. Finally someone doesn't forget all the wrong someone does just because said person is super hot.
Now this book wasn't the best and it wasn't that...deep one might say. But hell, it was entertaining. There was no love triangle. Main character was dense but also amusing. And the angel thing wasn't done in a horrible way. 4 stars, mostly because I was highly amused during most of the book. Now if more people stopped with the love triangles and upped the entertainment factor, maybe they'd get 4 stars from me too.
January 2, 2015
I was very, very excited for this book.
And it disappointed me very, very much.
The first 1/4 is great, but after that, dang, the story/writing goes downhill. The book starts to rush the storyline. So many things happen and some of them seem rather -- pointless. Also, Hazel is just, her character didn't feels right. Also, she cussed a bit too much and a bit over the top in my opinion. Like, we get it you're a bad girl, so cool. And girl, you mentioned quite often that you don't know why you're friends with Asher, just drop that idiot if he's so terrible but don't repeat the same sentences every other page. (Yes, I saw that)
Asher and Hunter both just confused the heck out of me. like both are very unlikable.
Anyway, the worst thing was, that around 60% in the book, the author started rushing facts and info and just, ugh. Also some parts felt like she added them, just because others would like reading them.
That demon sister or whatever the jerk she was really made me laugh though. Also, Hunter being a freaking animal whisper, really laughed at that one.
1 star because it was a cheap read, paid around 2€ for the book, so it's alright. and the other star for the fact that the first quarter of the book is good, but other than that, would not recommend.
(Also the reviews seem a bit biased...hmm)
And it disappointed me very, very much.
The first 1/4 is great, but after that, dang, the story/writing goes downhill. The book starts to rush the storyline. So many things happen and some of them seem rather -- pointless. Also, Hazel is just, her character didn't feels right. Also, she cussed a bit too much and a bit over the top in my opinion. Like, we get it you're a bad girl, so cool. And girl, you mentioned quite often that you don't know why you're friends with Asher, just drop that idiot if he's so terrible but don't repeat the same sentences every other page. (Yes, I saw that)
Asher and Hunter both just confused the heck out of me. like both are very unlikable.
Anyway, the worst thing was, that around 60% in the book, the author started rushing facts and info and just, ugh. Also some parts felt like she added them, just because others would like reading them.
That demon sister or whatever the jerk she was really made me laugh though. Also, Hunter being a freaking animal whisper, really laughed at that one.
1 star because it was a cheap read, paid around 2€ for the book, so it's alright. and the other star for the fact that the first quarter of the book is good, but other than that, would not recommend.
(Also the reviews seem a bit biased...hmm)
November 10, 2014
This book didn't really make sense to me. Neither guy was worth having in anyone's life, especially as a boyfriend. They took bad boy to the extreme. Who hangs out with someone that calls you ugly constantly? Does our "heroine" have no self respect? Also the was too much. It was hard to keep track of the characters' personalities (they are all bipolar in my opinion) and messed with my ability to create an emotional connection. Frustrating is the best word to describe this book.
Most importantly: What was so freaking special about Hazel?! Please someone me this.
Most importantly: What was so freaking special about Hazel?! Please someone me this.
January 4, 2015
DNF at 64%
This could have been a great book if not for the annoying main character. I tried so hard to finish this book but ohh it was impossible.
Hazel doesn't know what she is yet; she has a major crush on her best whore friend Ash. Hunter is guy she has to make a project with. Hunter is cold, doesn't talk so much and he‘s so vague. Ash and Hunter seem to know each other very well.The both of them are keeping secrets from Hazel about who or whay she is so dumb she can’t put 2 and 2 together even if it’s spelled out in front of her.
Hazel can be funny but that same treat makes her irritating to. Now strange things are happening demons are trying to kill her bla bla bla
I hate love triangles especially when they have no purpose.
This could have been a great book if not for the annoying main character. I tried so hard to finish this book but ohh it was impossible.
Hazel doesn't know what she is yet; she has a major crush on her best whore friend Ash. Hunter is guy she has to make a project with. Hunter is cold, doesn't talk so much and he‘s so vague. Ash and Hunter seem to know each other very well.The both of them are keeping secrets from Hazel about who or whay she is so dumb she can’t put 2 and 2 together even if it’s spelled out in front of her.
Hazel can be funny but that same treat makes her irritating to. Now strange things are happening demons are trying to kill her bla bla bla
I hate love triangles especially when they have no purpose.
September 7, 2016
I thought this was well-written, light and fun, but was also just dark enough to satisfy my hunger for Urban Fantasy/horror/romance. The dialog was witty and entertaining and I loved how fleshed-out the characters were. Like Stephenie Meyer, Eveline Hunt has a knack for writing convincing character dialog. Hmm, interesting...
January 7, 2015
Wouldn't even be able to be on wattpad
I couldn't even get through the whole thing. The main character didn't even question what was happening to her and the plot was so confusing. The love triangle was really weird too and didn't even make any sense whatsoever. Don't waste your money on this book
I couldn't even get through the whole thing. The main character didn't even question what was happening to her and the plot was so confusing. The love triangle was really weird too and didn't even make any sense whatsoever. Don't waste your money on this book
November 16, 2013
It was awesome! I love Ash!
November 9, 2015
THE AUTHOR POSTED ON HER SITE THAT THERE WILL BE NO SEQUEL *cries* *hits head* *pulls hair*
October 7, 2014
Loved it. Absolutely loved every single second of this delightfully witty, and deliciously naughty, awesome book. Can't wait for another one. New favorite author
December 7, 2014
Very different from what I was expecting. I've been in such a book funk lately but this book pulled me out of it. Excellent read.
December 31, 2014
Ugh. . .
The most confusing plot and really bad writing. The villains were not that scary and the end was a let down.
The most confusing plot and really bad writing. The villains were not that scary and the end was a let down.
February 1, 2015
I really hate not finishing a book, but this book literally hurt to read. I think it was a miracle that I forced myself to read 77% of it.
May 11, 2015
Don't even bother
I love how it start but then it got confusing and I hate the ending and didn't really understand it
I love how it start but then it got confusing and I hate the ending and didn't really understand it
January 27, 2016
An amazing mind screw!
Never and I mean never have I ever read a story like this! This book was amazing and you never knew what to expect. More! More! I need more now!
Never and I mean never have I ever read a story like this! This book was amazing and you never knew what to expect. More! More! I need more now!
December 2, 2016
Love the characters.
I like all 3 main characters in the story. Love the sexual tension between Ash and Zel. Hope there is a book 2.
I like all 3 main characters in the story. Love the sexual tension between Ash and Zel. Hope there is a book 2.
September 16, 2018
This book is a clusterfuck. It’s messy,very messy. I don’t know what the author was trying to go with the storyline.
It needs to be proofread and rewritten because it is bad
It needs to be proofread and rewritten because it is bad
September 2, 2016
I am highly unlikely to give a work of YA fiction anything more than three stars unless it knocks my socks off.
That being said:
This book was poorly written.
Argue with me all you want, you givers of five stars out there, but you're wrong and I'll tell you why.
The selling point of this book is the love triangle and the obscene way it's represented. Yes, Ash is a womanizing and foul-mouthed jerk, but all of the explicitly sexual references take away from the emotion we should be feeling for these characters. Writers should try to avoid language like this for "art's sake" because it detracts from the craft. There are times and places where it is appropriate (and you can cry first amendment here if you want but that just proves your ignorance), and it's peppered in this novel like it's nothing. Does it make the characters seem authentic? Maybe. I sort of remember behaving in such a debased way when I was in high school, but she could have made her point without it.
The plot development was weak. I have whiplash from that "body switching" scene. I could not keep up with who was who and even though I reread it four times I finally just had to skip it. That scene lacked skill in its execution.
I am also so frustrated by the way this love triangle was handled. Not to mention how this book just serves to encourage girls to accept abuse from the boys they like. Ash and Hunter are both complete assholes to Hazel. They are cruel, they toy with her emotions and play games. She tells them she's done, that she's leaving, and then she sits on the couch with them to watch a movie or whatever. No! No no no! What kind of enabling is that?! And when they finally do start being sweet to her -- dropping all KINDS of hints -- she is so defensive and puts up this stone wall immediately. Because of the whole shape shifting thing I still can't tell if Hunter was really Hunter during some of his sweeter scenes or if it was Ash pretending to be him. I don't like that.
But what I really would have liked to see at the end, after suffering through this ridiculous adolescent display, is for her to love them both and they could have a nice little polyamorous triad. That would work well for everyone involved, I'd wager.
This story has potential, it was just so poorly executed and I feel bad that the writer didn't have any friend honest enough to tell her so. Editing, and even self-editing, are processes that should not be taken lightly if you care anything at all for the craft of writing or the work you pour your lifeblood into.
Try again, Eveline Hunt.
That being said:
This book was poorly written.
Argue with me all you want, you givers of five stars out there, but you're wrong and I'll tell you why.
The selling point of this book is the love triangle and the obscene way it's represented. Yes, Ash is a womanizing and foul-mouthed jerk, but all of the explicitly sexual references take away from the emotion we should be feeling for these characters. Writers should try to avoid language like this for "art's sake" because it detracts from the craft. There are times and places where it is appropriate (and you can cry first amendment here if you want but that just proves your ignorance), and it's peppered in this novel like it's nothing. Does it make the characters seem authentic? Maybe. I sort of remember behaving in such a debased way when I was in high school, but she could have made her point without it.
The plot development was weak. I have whiplash from that "body switching" scene. I could not keep up with who was who and even though I reread it four times I finally just had to skip it. That scene lacked skill in its execution.
I am also so frustrated by the way this love triangle was handled. Not to mention how this book just serves to encourage girls to accept abuse from the boys they like. Ash and Hunter are both complete assholes to Hazel. They are cruel, they toy with her emotions and play games. She tells them she's done, that she's leaving, and then she sits on the couch with them to watch a movie or whatever. No! No no no! What kind of enabling is that?! And when they finally do start being sweet to her -- dropping all KINDS of hints -- she is so defensive and puts up this stone wall immediately. Because of the whole shape shifting thing I still can't tell if Hunter was really Hunter during some of his sweeter scenes or if it was Ash pretending to be him. I don't like that.
But what I really would have liked to see at the end, after suffering through this ridiculous adolescent display, is for her to love them both and they could have a nice little polyamorous triad. That would work well for everyone involved, I'd wager.
This story has potential, it was just so poorly executed and I feel bad that the writer didn't have any friend honest enough to tell her so. Editing, and even self-editing, are processes that should not be taken lightly if you care anything at all for the craft of writing or the work you pour your lifeblood into.
Try again, Eveline Hunt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2014
Hazel was best friends with Sumi, a pink-haired girl; and Asher, a hot guy Hazel had a crush since forever. however, Asher was in no hurry to settle down with one girl, thus having a different girl in his arm every single day. in the meanwhile, Hazel was partnered with a cold, unreadable guy in art class, Hunter. Hunter was a skillful painter yet was painfully blunt. the two boys always manage to get onto Hazel’s nerves, pushing her to the limit every time with their fast running mouths. among all the existing havoc, Hazel still found herself thrown into a bizarre world, where monsters were coming for her with reasons she not known, and an angel figure sometimes swooped in to save her. in utter confusion, Hazel was determine to fight her way through life, taking one day at a time.
I received a free e-book from the author in exchange for a review. despite not being a huge fan of romance and excessive banters, I was surprised to find myself entertained throughout the book. after finishing this book, I started to doubt that all these while, the problem was perhaps the writing style, not the romance nor banters etc. as much as I was waiting to feel annoyed with the triangular relationships between Hazel and the boys, I was again surprised to find myself never in that spot. on the contrary, I was even more intrigued towards finding out who the boys really were, uncovering their secrets once and for all, digging out all the delicious details. the moment the story progressed to Hazel’s mother’s relationship, I initially though the plotline went too far, involving just about anyone they can find. but again, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself loving her mother, even her newly introduced partner, immediately after the introductory scene. In more than a dozen ways, the book impressed me by being completely unpredictable; and it was even more impressive to find myself enjoying it so much. every twist pulled me deeper into Hazel’s world and made me loved the trio impossibly more and more as I came to an end of the book. I am now more than eager to lay my hands on the coming installment, anticipating especially the surprises it held!
my review: here
I received a free e-book from the author in exchange for a review. despite not being a huge fan of romance and excessive banters, I was surprised to find myself entertained throughout the book. after finishing this book, I started to doubt that all these while, the problem was perhaps the writing style, not the romance nor banters etc. as much as I was waiting to feel annoyed with the triangular relationships between Hazel and the boys, I was again surprised to find myself never in that spot. on the contrary, I was even more intrigued towards finding out who the boys really were, uncovering their secrets once and for all, digging out all the delicious details. the moment the story progressed to Hazel’s mother’s relationship, I initially though the plotline went too far, involving just about anyone they can find. but again, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself loving her mother, even her newly introduced partner, immediately after the introductory scene. In more than a dozen ways, the book impressed me by being completely unpredictable; and it was even more impressive to find myself enjoying it so much. every twist pulled me deeper into Hazel’s world and made me loved the trio impossibly more and more as I came to an end of the book. I am now more than eager to lay my hands on the coming installment, anticipating especially the surprises it held!
my review: here
February 7, 2017
Eveline Hunt's Darksoul is a paranormal young adult novel directed towards teenage girls. The main character Hazel believes she is a typical seventeen year old with the typical issues of balancing friends, crushes, and school. One day, in her art class, she gets partnered with a new boy named Hunter who is very mysterious and is quite rude to her at first. Around the same time she meets Hunter, a strangely familiar, gender-neutral voice starts talking to her and a tiny white winged creature begins to keep her company. While Hunter is confusing her with his cold looks, her best friend Asher continues to captivate her attention, as she has had a crush on him since they met as kids. Also around the time Hunter arrives, demons that are trying to kill her keep appearing, and when they do, boys that look exactly like Hunter and Asher show up, except one has an arm made of ice and the other has wings. They fight to defend her on several occasions, but she eventually learns how to defeat the demons on her own.
The novel kept my attention as the plot was filled with questions that intrigued me, as well as some action scenes. Although, I found the characters needed to be more developed and sometimes I was too confused and had to reread sections many times to even get a slight idea of what had just happened. I also found that the plot did not always seem connected.
I thought the main character Hazel acted like a typical girl and was someone I could relate to, but I found it difficult to compare Asher and Hunter to anyone I know. In addition, even though I found the moral of the story that girls can survive without boys to be a good message, I believe that if there had been more romance, it would have made a better story. I also believe that Hunt could have still gotten the message across with the romance.
Overall, I think it was a good, engaging book, but it could have definitely been written more clearly and in a more developed manner. Although, I would still encourage someone who likes the paranormal genre to read it if they are capable of pushing through the flaws. If there is a second book, I will still read it, and I hope Hunt improves because I believe she has the capacity to.
The novel kept my attention as the plot was filled with questions that intrigued me, as well as some action scenes. Although, I found the characters needed to be more developed and sometimes I was too confused and had to reread sections many times to even get a slight idea of what had just happened. I also found that the plot did not always seem connected.
I thought the main character Hazel acted like a typical girl and was someone I could relate to, but I found it difficult to compare Asher and Hunter to anyone I know. In addition, even though I found the moral of the story that girls can survive without boys to be a good message, I believe that if there had been more romance, it would have made a better story. I also believe that Hunt could have still gotten the message across with the romance.
Overall, I think it was a good, engaging book, but it could have definitely been written more clearly and in a more developed manner. Although, I would still encourage someone who likes the paranormal genre to read it if they are capable of pushing through the flaws. If there is a second book, I will still read it, and I hope Hunt improves because I believe she has the capacity to.
August 5, 2014
I read this book because I had decided to re-read Kiss Me, Kill Me, since it was in my favorites list. Though it's been a while I had read that book.
Anyways after I had read Darksoul, I decided to re-read KM, KM and I can come to a clear conclusion that I think 'rewrite of KM, KM' isn't the good description. This book is entirely different than KM, KM—well except the characters' names.
This book is about a girl called Hazel and she has two best friends (though we don't really see the real relationship between them). And Ash is one of the best friends and apparently he's player goes out with girls 'sleeps' with them (not sure whether he pretends or not, since most of the time it seems he deliberately make himself caught with another in girl in Hazel's presence). And there are a lot of moments when he kisses her and makes her forget (seriously, it frustrated the heck out of me). I mean I guess the relationship between Ash and Hazel is forbidden but they do feel the attraction, but seriously you hurt the girl more if you sleep with them all the time and you don't want your girl get hurt.
Furthermore there's a second guy Hunter and he's her angel? Well not the guardian angel because he said along the lines like 'I am not here because I need to, or because of my job, I am here because I am selfish.' Anyways damn I have a love-hate relationship with him, I hate boys that downgrade girls.. 'You are not pretty, you have no boobs etc etc.' that really hurts and after a while you really think along those lines and it's just frustrating. And even if you do it deliberately like if your relationship is forbidden or anything, it still isn't done.
On the other hand he really seems to care about her, whispering soothing things in her ear and giving Io to her.
The reason probably I didn't give more than 4 stars is because of Hunter downgrading girls and same for Asher, seriously that's not done.
Oh and the things in brackets are my assumptions since I only read until like 20ish chapters and then the book stopped. (Not because it was the end.)
Anyways after I had read Darksoul, I decided to re-read KM, KM and I can come to a clear conclusion that I think 'rewrite of KM, KM' isn't the good description. This book is entirely different than KM, KM—well except the characters' names.
This book is about a girl called Hazel and she has two best friends (though we don't really see the real relationship between them). And Ash is one of the best friends and apparently he's player goes out with girls 'sleeps' with them (not sure whether he pretends or not, since most of the time it seems he deliberately make himself caught with another in girl in Hazel's presence). And there are a lot of moments when he kisses her and makes her forget (seriously, it frustrated the heck out of me). I mean I guess the relationship between Ash and Hazel is forbidden but they do feel the attraction, but seriously you hurt the girl more if you sleep with them all the time and you don't want your girl get hurt.
Furthermore there's a second guy Hunter and he's her angel? Well not the guardian angel because he said along the lines like 'I am not here because I need to, or because of my job, I am here because I am selfish.' Anyways damn I have a love-hate relationship with him, I hate boys that downgrade girls.. 'You are not pretty, you have no boobs etc etc.' that really hurts and after a while you really think along those lines and it's just frustrating. And even if you do it deliberately like if your relationship is forbidden or anything, it still isn't done.
On the other hand he really seems to care about her, whispering soothing things in her ear and giving Io to her.
The reason probably I didn't give more than 4 stars is because of Hunter downgrading girls and same for Asher, seriously that's not done.
Oh and the things in brackets are my assumptions since I only read until like 20ish chapters and then the book stopped. (Not because it was the end.)
June 14, 2014
What can I say about Darksoul(aka Silver)? It was the best book I have read in a long, long time. For a while, I have been disillusioned by literature for my age group (teen/YA) and just couldn't believe that something this awesome could sprout from all the garbage. This book had me laughing, crying, pacing back and forth (my family had a wonderful time trying to understand my constant mood swings and movement) and left me wanting more. The characters feel like real people, they're complex, have true emotions and have many faults that make them realistic. The character development has been amazing and complex. Not only do the characters shine, but the plot! Oh the PLOT! It kept me on the edge of my (slowly deteriorating) reading chair, it had such intense moments I often found myself holding my breath, and this amazing story also contained enough catharsis, through a very comedic narrative, that I was able to stop myself from pulling my hair out from tension. The dialogue often had me laughing out loud. With Hazel's narrative alone, I would have been hooked, but this novel went above and beyond with its cast of dynamic and complex characters, an amazing plot that always left me guessing what would come next, humorous but realistic dialogue, and a sort of magic I can't place that just endeared me to this story. Not only was this story fantastic, but is partially made available through Wattpad, giving readers like me a chance to believe in literature again. This was a truly once in a lifetime story and I honestly can not wait to read to the rest of it when it is published! (If I knew the release date, I would be quite literally counting down the days) Until then, I plan to re-read the Wattpad sample as much as physically possible.
- B Green
- dililahbacall (Wattpad username)
- B Green
- dililahbacall (Wattpad username)
March 25, 2014
This is Jewels (@SINKINGBOATS ON WATTPAD) and I am in love with Silver / Darksoul. Hazel… well, she is, to be frank, hilarious. I wish I was her, and my personal favourite quote: “Oh, this is just fucking dandy. Here we have Asshole Number One, making Asshole Number Two into an even bigger asshole than he already is. This is just great. Ash, put that fucking cigarette away. Slade, go choke on a potato and die.” And, about potatoes – Hazel loves that damn word. Potato this. Potato that. Potato everything. I thoroughly enjoy reading your stories, and I float aimlessly around Wattpad just for your updates lol. Ash is personally my favourite, and seriously when he was like, “Wanna see the magic tricks I can do with this tongue, Zel?” I almost had an orgasm on the spot, like holy shit. He’s so damn hot. And his piercings, and his accent, and his everything. I’m not exactly a big fan of Hunter, he’s a bit of an asshole at the moment but still hot. Still waiting for the day he’ll confess his love for Hazel and they’ll live happily ever after, but that doesn’t look like it’ll be happening any time soon… Yeah, it was overall pretty damned good, I must say. Not cliché – just how I like shit done. And with a bunch of hot guys. Even Angel’s hot. Hot, hot, hot. And you describe them doing little things, and it’s just so hot. Like how you describe Hunter drawing and Ash playing with his tongue piercing. And you took out most of the intense things that were in KM, KM, but I think it was for the better. Asher’s sexier now, too. He was actually pretty annoying in the last one; oh well. I’m kind of typing in class right now, but you’ll be seeing a lot more of me! Xxxx And if it isn’t too much, could I please have a dedication for the next chapter of Silver? I would die! Literally!
December 2, 2014
2.5 stars - This book has a lot of potential. The author knows how to capture the teen girl fantasy of the tortured hot bad boys who is secretly in love with you. (There's even a meta reference to that YA phenomenon, which I thought was fun.) And in this book there's not one bad boy, but two. All of that is good stuff. And the protag's voice, particularly in the beginning of the novel, is funny and entertaining (although that wanes and suffers by the end...see: repetition.)
But this book has a long way to go as far as craft is concerned. There were pretty big plot holes that were never answered, poor character motivation, and indulgent affectations (eg. Why the Russian and French? Why those languages, why both and not one, and why interchange them mid-conversation?) But the biggest issue I saw was repetition repetition repetition. Eyes "softening", faces "softening", selves "softening"...ad nauseam. There's got to be more than one way to convey that emotion/response. Also overuse of unusual words, see: "tuft". And the twist was incredibly hard to follow, although I did like the heroine's response to it. Also, much of the dialogue was unbelievable. Try reading it aloud to yourself and see if it flows like the real thing. Some does, but much doesn't, and that become problematic.
I also think the setting would have worked better in college than high school, but YMMV.
I'm not a teenager (or even a "new adult") but I can imagine this book would be fun for a teen to read, esp one who likes their boys dark and damaged (like I did back then). I think the author just needs more time and experience honing her craft. I wish her all the best.
But this book has a long way to go as far as craft is concerned. There were pretty big plot holes that were never answered, poor character motivation, and indulgent affectations (eg. Why the Russian and French? Why those languages, why both and not one, and why interchange them mid-conversation?) But the biggest issue I saw was repetition repetition repetition. Eyes "softening", faces "softening", selves "softening"...ad nauseam. There's got to be more than one way to convey that emotion/response. Also overuse of unusual words, see: "tuft". And the twist was incredibly hard to follow, although I did like the heroine's response to it. Also, much of the dialogue was unbelievable. Try reading it aloud to yourself and see if it flows like the real thing. Some does, but much doesn't, and that become problematic.
I also think the setting would have worked better in college than high school, but YMMV.
I'm not a teenager (or even a "new adult") but I can imagine this book would be fun for a teen to read, esp one who likes their boys dark and damaged (like I did back then). I think the author just needs more time and experience honing her craft. I wish her all the best.
July 21, 2016
I have a love hate relationship with this book.
What I loved was the dialogue which was hilarious at times. Also the style of writing was just plain fun and lighthearted. I was expecting the book to be more serious in nature but nope.
Now onto what I hated... The paranormal aspect was just another ploy to support the romantic storyline. It had no purpose whatsoever and perhaps the book might have benefited if it were a contemporary romance book only. Then again, that's entirely doubtful seing as both of the kive interests were one dimensional assholes. I swear they couldn't string a sentence together without any sexual connotation and UGH they were funny at the beginning but the jokes became superfluous and eyeroll worthy one I realised that they were immature idiots incapable of any depthful conversation. Hence, one dimensional characters.
I still don't get why Hunter and Ash felt the need to give up Hazel to each other. What????? The push and pull was confusing. And it irked me even more when both love interests were too similar to each other both physically with their rings and tattoos, as well as their personalities. At first, I thought it was going to be some crazy plot twist or the author unknowingly creating similar characters. Imagine my bewilderment when the protagonist actually acknowledged them as practically twins.
I admit that the beginning of the book was fascinating but it just went downhill from there. At best, the book was entertaining but it doesn't really belong in the paranormal genre.
What I loved was the dialogue which was hilarious at times. Also the style of writing was just plain fun and lighthearted. I was expecting the book to be more serious in nature but nope.
Now onto what I hated... The paranormal aspect was just another ploy to support the romantic storyline. It had no purpose whatsoever and perhaps the book might have benefited if it were a contemporary romance book only. Then again, that's entirely doubtful seing as both of the kive interests were one dimensional assholes. I swear they couldn't string a sentence together without any sexual connotation and UGH they were funny at the beginning but the jokes became superfluous and eyeroll worthy one I realised that they were immature idiots incapable of any depthful conversation. Hence, one dimensional characters.
I still don't get why Hunter and Ash felt the need to give up Hazel to each other. What????? The push and pull was confusing. And it irked me even more when both love interests were too similar to each other both physically with their rings and tattoos, as well as their personalities. At first, I thought it was going to be some crazy plot twist or the author unknowingly creating similar characters. Imagine my bewilderment when the protagonist actually acknowledged them as practically twins.
I admit that the beginning of the book was fascinating but it just went downhill from there. At best, the book was entertaining but it doesn't really belong in the paranormal genre.
July 28, 2014
I read half this book on Wattpad expecting it to be just like every other cliched angels and paranormal book out there, but was pleasantly surprised with what I got. Although I've only been able to read half of the book so far (since that is what is up on Wattpad and the book hasn't come out yet... I think) I cant wait to get my hands on the published copy and find out what happens next. Unlike every cliched supernatural book out there the book's characters and romance are relatable and actually plausible. Hazel doesn't automatically fall in love with Hunter (even though I'm kind of routing for him) and the love she feels for her best friend is real and actually happens in reality. And I thought that was a breath of fresh air. I also really loved Hazel's character. She is so unique but at the same time a real person in the way that she does feel fear, she has insecurities, in the way that she's in love with her best friend, in the way that she can be brave, in the way that she has doubts, in the way that she always has something to say, that she has her own unique way of expressing herself in her form of speech, and in the way that she learns. All these things make her so human even when she technically isn't. I would recommend reading this book to anyone. I can't wait till it's published.
February 25, 2015
3.75 cause it started out good got a bit dull, threw in a senseless curve ball and then managed to pick back up again to leave me wanting some more.
I did initially quiet like the crassness of the characters and although they felt real I didn't buy them being high schoolers. Yeah teens can be explicit and crass but you don't tend to show that level of comfort until you're slightly older, the boys were more like nasty boy versions of the Dawson's Creek boys.
And although I did find them entertaining at first it did begin to grate, it seemed as if everything was a game to them, mainly Ash. What was more annoying was that it took Hazel sooo long to come to this conclusion and that was only mainly because of the completely unnecessary twist .
I did feel for our girl in terms of the conclusion, it was like someone had taken a wrecking ball to her life, I'll be interested to see were book number two goes. And although I did end up feeling slightly more enamoured with Ash after all of his rediciouslness I think Hunter is the one for Hazel.
But seriously woman stop with all the smoking already, it is not cute. In fact its very much barf worthy and if I didn't know better I'd think it was a preoccupation for something.
I did initially quiet like the crassness of the characters and although they felt real I didn't buy them being high schoolers. Yeah teens can be explicit and crass but you don't tend to show that level of comfort until you're slightly older, the boys were more like nasty boy versions of the Dawson's Creek boys.
And although I did find them entertaining at first it did begin to grate, it seemed as if everything was a game to them, mainly Ash. What was more annoying was that it took Hazel sooo long to come to this conclusion and that was only mainly because of the completely unnecessary twist .
I did feel for our girl in terms of the conclusion, it was like someone had taken a wrecking ball to her life, I'll be interested to see were book number two goes. And although I did end up feeling slightly more enamoured with Ash after all of his rediciouslness I think Hunter is the one for Hazel.
But seriously woman stop with all the smoking already, it is not cute. In fact its very much barf worthy and if I didn't know better I'd think it was a preoccupation for something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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