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The Nocte Trilogy #1
Nocte
My name is Calla Price. I'm eighteen years old, and I'm one half of a whole. My other half-- my twin brother, my Finn-- is crazy. I love him. More than life, more than anything. And even though I'm terrified he'll suck me down with him, no one can save him but me. I'm doing all I can to stay afloat in a sea of insanity, but I'm drowning more and more each day. So I reach out for a lifeline. Dare DuBray. He's my savior and my anti-Christ. His arms are where I feel safe, where I'm afraid, where I belong, where I'm lost. He will heal me, break me, love me and hate me. He has the power to destroy me. Maybe that's ok. Because I can't seem to save Finn and love Dare without everyone getting hurt. Why? Because of a secret. A secret I'm so busy trying to figure out, that I never see it coming. You won't either.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2014
251 people are currently reading
14958 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Cole
44 books4,548 followersCourtney Cole is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist who loves to eat your emotions for breakfast.
She believes in the power of blonde hair dye and red lipstick, and that a well-timed smile can save the world.
Learn more about Courtney and her books at www.courtneycolecreates.com
Find her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/courtneyc...
She believes in the power of blonde hair dye and red lipstick, and that a well-timed smile can save the world.
Learn more about Courtney and her books at www.courtneycolecreates.com
Find her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/courtneyc...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,560 reviews
November 7, 2014
::: FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED ::: SPOILER-FREE :::
Woah. I could not put this book down!! It hooked me from the first few paragraphs, kept me flipping pages like crazy right through to the end… and now I’m desperate for the next one!! If you’re looking for something totally unique, thrilling, and mysterious, but at the same time romantic and sexy, that’ll keep you guessing until the very last page, then you have to try this book. Just dive in and let the story happen!!
My honest opinion is that it’s best to go into this book completely blind. As in literally, don’t try to find out anything about the plot. The thrill of it is in the discovery along the way. But, in order to reassure those of you who have questions, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know (without spoilers) here. But remember that, just like the book says, some things are better kept secret until the right time…
I will tell you a little though. Just to give you an idea of what you’re getting into.
First, this is a contemporary , modern day, real world, story. It is not paranormal, fantastical, dystopian, or anything else. It takes places in a normal town with normal people (well, there's a bit of crazy to be sure, but still... real). It’s the plot of the story, the way it is told, and what happens that brings it it’s originality.
Also, it’s a story that makes you wonder, keeps you guessing and second guessing, it teases your mind, but you’re not going to be traumatized by anything you read. It’s more that it makes you question everything. It’s a little dark, but not gruesome in any way. I’d consider it a completely “safe” read.
For those of you who like to know the twist in advance, you guys know how I often give that option in reviews whenever I think it would help, but I’m not going to here because just trust me that this this one is better to just discover as you go. I wouldn’t tell you that unless I really meant it. I promise it’s nothing creepy or twisted or disturbing. I loved the way it all came together and I loved how my mind was going a thousand miles a minute trying to fit all these pieces together in a way that made sense.
The writing was amazing! It created this atmosphere, or vibe, of mystery that set the most thrilling tone for the story. I could see the story unfolding in front of me quite vividly — like a movie in my mind. The characters and story just came alive as I read.
The reason I haven’t said anything about the plot here is that it’s one of those books where anything I tell you will actually be misleading because…. well… um… you’ll understand why once you’ve read the book. I don’t want to create an expectation in your mind of something it’s not. Just open yourself to the idea of anything and let the story show you its secrets as you read.
Oh and yes, this is absolutely a romance. I fell in love with Dare and I have no doubt that you will too! He’s this sexy, mysterious guy and… you’ll swoon!
The blurb was right though. I was wrong. I did guess part of the secret but not all of it. I didn’t see it all coming and now I desperately am looking forward to the next book. I need it yesterday!!
The cliffhanger leaves you desperate for more but also gives you a certain sense of resolution. The main mystery that was woven throughout this book is resolved by the end and we are given a full explanation… but in the last few pages, another question is brought up that will be answered in the next book. So you do get answers. But you also discover more questions (that you’ll desperately want new answers to).
This book is alluring, captivating, thrilling, romantic, sexy, mysterious, and more. Life, death, love, family, reality, insanity, all these aspects draw you in with their secrets and keep you entranced until the end. I read it in one sitting, could not put it down and absolutely loved it!!
Rating: 4.5 stars. First book of a trilogy.
Contemporary New Adult psychological romantic suspense (NOT paranormal)
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
✦ Twitter
Woah. I could not put this book down!! It hooked me from the first few paragraphs, kept me flipping pages like crazy right through to the end… and now I’m desperate for the next one!! If you’re looking for something totally unique, thrilling, and mysterious, but at the same time romantic and sexy, that’ll keep you guessing until the very last page, then you have to try this book. Just dive in and let the story happen!!
SAVE ME AND I'LL SAVE YOU...
My name is Calla Price. I’m eighteen years old, and I’m one half of a whole. My other half -- my twin brother, my Finn -- is crazy.
I love him. More than life, more than anything. And even though I’m terrified he’ll suck me down with him, no one can save him but me.
I’m doing all I can to stay afloat in a sea of insanity, but I’m drowning more and more each day. So I reach out for a lifeline.
Dare DuBray.
He’s my savior and my anti-Christ. His arms are where I feel safe, where I’m afraid, where I belong, where I’m lost. He will heal me, break me, love me and hate me.
He has the power to destroy me.
Maybe that’s ok. Because I can’t seem to save Finn and love Dare without everyone getting hurt.
Why? Because of a secret.
A secret I’m so busy trying to figure out, that I never see it coming.
You won’t either.
My honest opinion is that it’s best to go into this book completely blind. As in literally, don’t try to find out anything about the plot. The thrill of it is in the discovery along the way. But, in order to reassure those of you who have questions, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know (without spoilers) here. But remember that, just like the book says, some things are better kept secret until the right time…
I will tell you a little though. Just to give you an idea of what you’re getting into.
First, this is a contemporary , modern day, real world, story. It is not paranormal, fantastical, dystopian, or anything else. It takes places in a normal town with normal people (well, there's a bit of crazy to be sure, but still... real). It’s the plot of the story, the way it is told, and what happens that brings it it’s originality.
Also, it’s a story that makes you wonder, keeps you guessing and second guessing, it teases your mind, but you’re not going to be traumatized by anything you read. It’s more that it makes you question everything. It’s a little dark, but not gruesome in any way. I’d consider it a completely “safe” read.
For those of you who like to know the twist in advance, you guys know how I often give that option in reviews whenever I think it would help, but I’m not going to here because just trust me that this this one is better to just discover as you go. I wouldn’t tell you that unless I really meant it. I promise it’s nothing creepy or twisted or disturbing. I loved the way it all came together and I loved how my mind was going a thousand miles a minute trying to fit all these pieces together in a way that made sense.
“There is nothing quite so terrifying as the descension of the human mind into insanity.”
The writing was amazing! It created this atmosphere, or vibe, of mystery that set the most thrilling tone for the story. I could see the story unfolding in front of me quite vividly — like a movie in my mind. The characters and story just came alive as I read.
The reason I haven’t said anything about the plot here is that it’s one of those books where anything I tell you will actually be misleading because…. well… um… you’ll understand why once you’ve read the book. I don’t want to create an expectation in your mind of something it’s not. Just open yourself to the idea of anything and let the story show you its secrets as you read.
Oh and yes, this is absolutely a romance. I fell in love with Dare and I have no doubt that you will too! He’s this sexy, mysterious guy and… you’ll swoon!
“You’re going to be the death of me,” he says against my neck, his lips brushing my skin.
“Why?” I manage to breathe…
“Because you’re so much better than I deserve.”
The blurb was right though. I was wrong. I did guess part of the secret but not all of it. I didn’t see it all coming and now I desperately am looking forward to the next book. I need it yesterday!!
The cliffhanger leaves you desperate for more but also gives you a certain sense of resolution. The main mystery that was woven throughout this book is resolved by the end and we are given a full explanation… but in the last few pages, another question is brought up that will be answered in the next book. So you do get answers. But you also discover more questions (that you’ll desperately want new answers to).
“Don’t ask, because I can’t tell you right now. Everyone has secrets, Calla, even me.”
This book is alluring, captivating, thrilling, romantic, sexy, mysterious, and more. Life, death, love, family, reality, insanity, all these aspects draw you in with their secrets and keep you entranced until the end. I read it in one sitting, could not put it down and absolutely loved it!!
Rating: 4.5 stars. First book of a trilogy.
Contemporary New Adult psychological romantic suspense (NOT paranormal)
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
July 15, 2015
4.5 Twisted Stars
Well...hell...I'm a little speechless here. See here's the thing, I don't read YA. Ever. Or at least I don't make it a point to since it's not my preferred genre. But then I saw Courtney Cole was coming out with this book, and I didn't even think twice before adding. I added it before it even had a blurb, just a note from the author. I didn't care if it was YA. I HAD to read this. I just had to. And now I did, and you know what?
Yeah. I'm still freaking speechless.
Here's what I can tell you about this book
Because even the most minor of details can be the most major of spoilers. The book is that cleverly woven together and twisted.
What I can tell you is that I was sucked into the story just from the very first page. I read it in pretty much one sitting, practically salivating for this BIG secret to be revealed.
At times I thought I knew where everything was heading, and then the author would throw me for another loop. My head was spinning by the time I finished.
This book just further proved the absolute genius that is Courtney Cole's writing. And then that revelation at the end? Holy HOLY shit! I was stunned stupid. I never saw it coming in a million years. I had a feeling about a small part of it but nowhere close to how closely tied together everything was.
I feel it fair to mention that this is not a standalone but a trilogy. And the cliffhanger is there, and it's one that will leave you with a bigger question than the answer that was revealed. It will leave you begging and crying for the next book. But that is all you'll get from me. Do NOT read any reviews before reading this. This is a book that you must go into absolutely blind. Trust me. Now go on and read it so I have someone to bitch and moan to in my wait for my next fix....erm...book.
ARC gifted to Dirty Girl Romance blog in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
By night, I am free.
No one hears my monster but me.
My freedom is fragile, though,
Because every morning
The night is broken
by the sun
It's a good way to die.
Well...hell...I'm a little speechless here. See here's the thing, I don't read YA. Ever. Or at least I don't make it a point to since it's not my preferred genre. But then I saw Courtney Cole was coming out with this book, and I didn't even think twice before adding. I added it before it even had a blurb, just a note from the author. I didn't care if it was YA. I HAD to read this. I just had to. And now I did, and you know what?
Yeah. I'm still freaking speechless.
Here's what I can tell you about this book
Because even the most minor of details can be the most major of spoilers. The book is that cleverly woven together and twisted.
What I can tell you is that I was sucked into the story just from the very first page. I read it in pretty much one sitting, practically salivating for this BIG secret to be revealed.
At times I thought I knew where everything was heading, and then the author would throw me for another loop. My head was spinning by the time I finished.
This book just further proved the absolute genius that is Courtney Cole's writing. And then that revelation at the end? Holy HOLY shit! I was stunned stupid. I never saw it coming in a million years. I had a feeling about a small part of it but nowhere close to how closely tied together everything was.
I feel it fair to mention that this is not a standalone but a trilogy. And the cliffhanger is there, and it's one that will leave you with a bigger question than the answer that was revealed. It will leave you begging and crying for the next book. But that is all you'll get from me. Do NOT read any reviews before reading this. This is a book that you must go into absolutely blind. Trust me. Now go on and read it so I have someone to bitch and moan to in my wait for my next fix....erm...book.
ARC gifted to Dirty Girl Romance blog in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
November 5, 2014
4 stars!
When it comes to luring me to read a book, I really do have simple standards. A gorgeous cover will usually do the trick but in this case, Nocte not only has a eye-catching cover but an enticing blurb too good to resist and an author letter that gave me CHILLS so whaddya know? This is a book that no matter what I had to read the second it was available to buy. And now that I’ve finished I can say that the author definitely delivered on her promise in her letter. I was repeatedly warned about how surprising the big twist would be and how unconventional the ending was but nothing could really prepare me because when I got to those parts, I actually flinched at how chilling the words and the mood of the story was, and just like the characters, I, too, fell into despair over the big reveal and the fact that the ending answers one question but dangles an even bigger one in front.
This is the story of Calla Price, a girl who’s surrounded by death and morbidity. Her father is a mortician, her mother died in a horrifying car accident, and her twin brother is mentally crazy. The poor girl just can’t get a break! But despite all the ugly in her life, she remains positive and is confident that her twin bond with Finn will ultimately save him from his sick mental health. They always say that twins have an extra special connection and so for Calla, nothing and no one is more important to her than her brother and his well-being.
On a day just like any other, Calla drops off Finn at one of his therapy sessions and meets this guy Dare. Her connection with him isn’t so much as insta-love as it is soul recognition but there is just something about Dare that makes Calla hyperaware of him and him of her.
They bond over similar past ordeals and Calla finds that the more time she spends with Dare, the more she feels free from all of her worries. It’s clear, however, that Dare is hiding some pretty important things from her and she from him, so as much as they come to like and love each other, there is an unspoken agreement to avoid confrontation about their secrets. But the truth can’t be hidden forever and soon enough, both of their pasts – especially Calla’s – catches up with them and when it is revealed, it is absolutely shocking and devastating to both the main characters and everyone around them. Nevertheless, it doesn’t change Calla and Dare’s relationship a bit; if anything, their rocky relationship only motivates them more into making things work.
Up until the big twist, I was a little bored with the book in terms of not really knowing what direction the story was going in. It’s written in alternate Finn and Calla POVs, and many of the Calla scenes bored me with mundane descriptions of daily life activities. Finn’s POVs, however, really captivated me with his dark, edgy ferocity, and the author really captured his sick mental health and channeled it into his POV, projecting a very unstable individual who’s both fascinating and frightening. So when that big reveal came, I was shocked speechless. I finished the book in a daze and sat in my chair for half an hour staring at nothing and contemplating everything I read. Books like these where the enjoyment level is mainly contingent on one huge turning point in the book I’m always wary of reviewing because I may let the shock override my true feelings. I’ve let the shock wear off and I have to say that while the actual twist itself is original, imaginative, and unique in the context of this book, the fallout is huge and the wake left behind presented several plot holes that made me scratch my head.
I think it’s no secret that the ending is a cliffhanger, and might I add it is one MASSIVE cliffy that has the power to cripple you, force you on your knees and beg the author to release the next book at once. However, I knew it was this kind of ending and still decided to read it because I was just SO curious about the book, you know? And so even though I wished the book didn’t end the way it did here, even though I admit it would’ve made my heart feel a lot better if I read this when at least book 2 released, I don’t regret reading this book one bit. In my opinion, the shock, agony, and pure torture of not having the next book available is worth experiencing.
Nocte is the first book in the Nocte trilogy and not a standalone. The story will continue on in book 2 Verum which will be released in February.
When it comes to luring me to read a book, I really do have simple standards. A gorgeous cover will usually do the trick but in this case, Nocte not only has a eye-catching cover but an enticing blurb too good to resist and an author letter that gave me CHILLS so whaddya know? This is a book that no matter what I had to read the second it was available to buy. And now that I’ve finished I can say that the author definitely delivered on her promise in her letter. I was repeatedly warned about how surprising the big twist would be and how unconventional the ending was but nothing could really prepare me because when I got to those parts, I actually flinched at how chilling the words and the mood of the story was, and just like the characters, I, too, fell into despair over the big reveal and the fact that the ending answers one question but dangles an even bigger one in front.
This is the story of Calla Price, a girl who’s surrounded by death and morbidity. Her father is a mortician, her mother died in a horrifying car accident, and her twin brother is mentally crazy. The poor girl just can’t get a break! But despite all the ugly in her life, she remains positive and is confident that her twin bond with Finn will ultimately save him from his sick mental health. They always say that twins have an extra special connection and so for Calla, nothing and no one is more important to her than her brother and his well-being.
On a day just like any other, Calla drops off Finn at one of his therapy sessions and meets this guy Dare. Her connection with him isn’t so much as insta-love as it is soul recognition but there is just something about Dare that makes Calla hyperaware of him and him of her.
They bond over similar past ordeals and Calla finds that the more time she spends with Dare, the more she feels free from all of her worries. It’s clear, however, that Dare is hiding some pretty important things from her and she from him, so as much as they come to like and love each other, there is an unspoken agreement to avoid confrontation about their secrets. But the truth can’t be hidden forever and soon enough, both of their pasts – especially Calla’s – catches up with them and when it is revealed, it is absolutely shocking and devastating to both the main characters and everyone around them. Nevertheless, it doesn’t change Calla and Dare’s relationship a bit; if anything, their rocky relationship only motivates them more into making things work.
Up until the big twist, I was a little bored with the book in terms of not really knowing what direction the story was going in. It’s written in alternate Finn and Calla POVs, and many of the Calla scenes bored me with mundane descriptions of daily life activities. Finn’s POVs, however, really captivated me with his dark, edgy ferocity, and the author really captured his sick mental health and channeled it into his POV, projecting a very unstable individual who’s both fascinating and frightening. So when that big reveal came, I was shocked speechless. I finished the book in a daze and sat in my chair for half an hour staring at nothing and contemplating everything I read. Books like these where the enjoyment level is mainly contingent on one huge turning point in the book I’m always wary of reviewing because I may let the shock override my true feelings. I’ve let the shock wear off and I have to say that while the actual twist itself is original, imaginative, and unique in the context of this book, the fallout is huge and the wake left behind presented several plot holes that made me scratch my head.
I think it’s no secret that the ending is a cliffhanger, and might I add it is one MASSIVE cliffy that has the power to cripple you, force you on your knees and beg the author to release the next book at once. However, I knew it was this kind of ending and still decided to read it because I was just SO curious about the book, you know? And so even though I wished the book didn’t end the way it did here, even though I admit it would’ve made my heart feel a lot better if I read this when at least book 2 released, I don’t regret reading this book one bit. In my opinion, the shock, agony, and pure torture of not having the next book available is worth experiencing.
Nocte is the first book in the Nocte trilogy and not a standalone. The story will continue on in book 2 Verum which will be released in February.
October 24, 2015
On sale for $.99 -> http://amzn.to/1z2zdnT
Book 2 on sale for $.99 -> http://amzn.to/1Wa66Io
10/23/2015
I listened to this one and I thought the narrators did an excellent job. Their voices were haunting and almost dead sounding. It added to the creepiness of the story.
I must confess that after I listened to the first chapter I knew what was happening in the story. I blame Kim for that because she has made me watch and read some weird stuff. Nocte had the vibe of another book I had already read so I knew the twist. Even though I figured it out, I still think this was an excellent book. Had I not been "forced" to read weird stuff by Kim (love you, Kim)... I'm positive I would have been shocked by the twist.
I love going to Astoria, the setting for this story, and after listening to this book I will never look at that town the same way. It's going to have a creepy feeling to it.
Because this story is dark and twisty I don't even want to touch the plot for fear of ruining the book for someone who hasn't read it yet. If you want a good twisty book for Halloween give this one a try.
SERIES:
Novella:
(#2.5)
Book 2 on sale for $.99 -> http://amzn.to/1Wa66Io
10/23/2015
I listened to this one and I thought the narrators did an excellent job. Their voices were haunting and almost dead sounding. It added to the creepiness of the story.
I must confess that after I listened to the first chapter I knew what was happening in the story. I blame Kim for that because she has made me watch and read some weird stuff. Nocte had the vibe of another book I had already read so I knew the twist. Even though I figured it out, I still think this was an excellent book. Had I not been "forced" to read weird stuff by Kim (love you, Kim)... I'm positive I would have been shocked by the twist.
I love going to Astoria, the setting for this story, and after listening to this book I will never look at that town the same way. It's going to have a creepy feeling to it.
Because this story is dark and twisty I don't even want to touch the plot for fear of ruining the book for someone who hasn't read it yet. If you want a good twisty book for Halloween give this one a try.
SERIES:
Novella:
(#2.5)
November 16, 2014
Title: Nocte
Series: The Nocte Trilogy #1
Author: Cole Courtney
Release Date: November 3rd, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. Yes
HEA:
Save me and I'll save you...
Wow! This book was just… wow *shakes head * I have no proper words to describe what it made me feel! It’s crazy story. It’s just insane! Yet it is so so fucking good. The best mind fuck I’ve read in quite a while.
Courtney Cole showed how truly talented author she is. Nocte is definitely something that won’t be easily forgotten; it’s too freaking good for that. This is a page turner that will keep every reader guessing till the end. It’s a romance, it’s suspense and everything in between. It will mess with your head and feelings, but guess what? You will love it because of just that!
The story of Calla, Finn and Dare will be branded in my head for a long time I can’t express what it made me feel; there were too many things and emotions involved at once. This novel is so complex and so full of life it was hard to even stop reading for a single second. I felt glued to the pages.
For me, Nocte was almost perfect; almost, because I only wished for a little bit more steam between main couple, then everything would be absolutely flawless. That’s why the four star rating.
It’s best for the future readers to just dive into this novel without any additional knowledge. The surprise you will get at the end if you won’t read any spoilers or reviews that summarize the plot is worth it. Do yourself a favor - grab the book and start it immediately as I almost 100% certain you won’t regret doing so.
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November 6, 2014
4.5 NOCTE STARS! ★★★★☆
"There is nothing quite so terrifying as the descension of the human mind into insanity" - Calla Price
Well holy cannolis. WHAT DID I JUST READ. I mean, whaa-
I've never read anything from Courtney Cole before but then I saw the pretty cover, that amazing blurb and that author's note. I JUST HAD TO HAVE IT. And boy what a crazy ride it was as my mind is still trying to digest what. just. happened. I feel like I need to re-read this to grasp around the entire idea.
So the thing about this book: I'm not even allowed to divulge details of the plot at all and I agree that it should be kept that way because going in blind is the best way to enjoy this read.
The story is beautifully complex and the author managed to weave all the minor details throughout the book so cleverly into something huge and twisted later on. It's completely enthralling and will make you want to devour this book in one sitting, trust me.
There's also that fantastic dynamic between Calla, her twin brother, Finn and her love interest, Dare which keeps you on your toes as you try to piece the entire puzzle. Also I wouldn't deem this book to be really dark but there is a certain eerie and hauntingly beautiful feel to this read that grips you throughout.
**********
Unpredictable and completely unputdownable, Nocte is definitely one of those books that will send your mind into a tailspin. Honestly this read would make a good BR material because it's one that you would want to vent your feelings out as you read along.
A fair warning would be that this is NOT a standalone and is part of a trilogy. That cliffhanger there? Yeah it's one of those that makes you wanna hunt down the author and force her to write the next one ASAP (please Courtney, pleaaasee). But here's the thing though, I'm actually glad it's not a standalone because there's no way that an idea as bizarre as this could be wrapped up in one book alone. I would have been pissed off if it was wrapped up too quickly!
So would I recommend you to read this? I believe this book is just the beginning of an even more complex premise that has yet to come. If you can deal with cliffies, by all means, go ahead and strap on for one cray cray ride. You wouldn't want to miss out on this ;)
NOCTE will be released on November 3rd, 2014.
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
"There is nothing quite so terrifying as the descension of the human mind into insanity" - Calla Price
Well holy cannolis. WHAT DID I JUST READ. I mean, whaa-
I've never read anything from Courtney Cole before but then I saw the pretty cover, that amazing blurb and that author's note. I JUST HAD TO HAVE IT. And boy what a crazy ride it was as my mind is still trying to digest what. just. happened. I feel like I need to re-read this to grasp around the entire idea.
So the thing about this book: I'm not even allowed to divulge details of the plot at all and I agree that it should be kept that way because going in blind is the best way to enjoy this read.
The story is beautifully complex and the author managed to weave all the minor details throughout the book so cleverly into something huge and twisted later on. It's completely enthralling and will make you want to devour this book in one sitting, trust me.
"Secrets. Everybody's got 'em." - Dare DuBray
There's also that fantastic dynamic between Calla, her twin brother, Finn and her love interest, Dare which keeps you on your toes as you try to piece the entire puzzle. Also I wouldn't deem this book to be really dark but there is a certain eerie and hauntingly beautiful feel to this read that grips you throughout.
**********
Unpredictable and completely unputdownable, Nocte is definitely one of those books that will send your mind into a tailspin. Honestly this read would make a good BR material because it's one that you would want to vent your feelings out as you read along.
A fair warning would be that this is NOT a standalone and is part of a trilogy. That cliffhanger there? Yeah it's one of those that makes you wanna hunt down the author and force her to write the next one ASAP (please Courtney, pleaaasee). But here's the thing though, I'm actually glad it's not a standalone because there's no way that an idea as bizarre as this could be wrapped up in one book alone. I would have been pissed off if it was wrapped up too quickly!
So would I recommend you to read this? I believe this book is just the beginning of an even more complex premise that has yet to come. If you can deal with cliffies, by all means, go ahead and strap on for one cray cray ride. You wouldn't want to miss out on this ;)
NOCTE will be released on November 3rd, 2014.
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
November 4, 2014
4.5 ~ 5 Stars
"Save me and I will save you."
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My advice for readers is don’t research this story too much and just jump in blind because this was a whole lot of fun to read in a twisty, keep you guessing way.
Courtney Cole delivered the suspense and will have you guessing and messaging friends. Calla is struggling with a lot of guilt over her mother’s death while her mentally ill twin brother, Finn's welfare is her responsibility. A hot guy named Dare has moved into their family’s carriage house and brings forth all sort of feelings in her. Everyone seems to be keeping a secret in this book so you’ll have to put your thinking cap on.
”My secret will come out. But before that, I will save her. I will.”
As the story unfolds and I must stress this was a page turner, some events had my head spinning but I held onto my theories.
When the secret was revealed I was a bit disappointed because I did figured it out but then I read the last few lines and it seems there’s a whole lot MORE going on.
Once you finish you MUST head over to the author’s Facebook page because she has been posting letters and text messages that lead to so many questions that my head’s spinning with all different scenarios.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Courtn...
Overall, this a well written page turner that I’m having a blast discussing with friends and am looking forward to the second book in the series which is scheduled to release in February 2015.
"Save me and I will save you."
[image error]
My advice for readers is don’t research this story too much and just jump in blind because this was a whole lot of fun to read in a twisty, keep you guessing way.
Courtney Cole delivered the suspense and will have you guessing and messaging friends. Calla is struggling with a lot of guilt over her mother’s death while her mentally ill twin brother, Finn's welfare is her responsibility. A hot guy named Dare has moved into their family’s carriage house and brings forth all sort of feelings in her. Everyone seems to be keeping a secret in this book so you’ll have to put your thinking cap on.
”My secret will come out. But before that, I will save her. I will.”
As the story unfolds and I must stress this was a page turner, some events had my head spinning but I held onto my theories.
When the secret was revealed I was a bit disappointed because I did figured it out but then I read the last few lines and it seems there’s a whole lot MORE going on.
Once you finish you MUST head over to the author’s Facebook page because she has been posting letters and text messages that lead to so many questions that my head’s spinning with all different scenarios.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Courtn...
Overall, this a well written page turner that I’m having a blast discussing with friends and am looking forward to the second book in the series which is scheduled to release in February 2015.
September 25, 2015
4 DRAGONFLY STARS
“But just because we can’t see something doesn’t mean it’s not there.”
Wow, my mind was all over the place with this one trying to put the pieces together and figure out the freakin' secret!!
This is not a standalone. It’s a trilogy and in addition to a secret that's unveiled towards the end of this book, there is also a cliffhanger. BUT, I highly recommend this book! If you like a great mystery, exploration of human psyche and can handle or actually are thrilled (like me) by twisted reads, then you must read this series!
This wasn't as dark as I thought it would be but, there was an eerie feeling that enveloped this story and added to the anticipation surrounding the secret. While the secret seems to be the focus, I thought this story was so much more than that. Ms. Cole doesn’t disappoint with her great writing and creating these complex, flawed and magnetic characters that you can’t help but lose yourself in this story.
About the secret, it's not to say that the hype about this is overdone. It's not. But, when the author promises a secret at the outset of the story, expectations can be really HIGH. Mine were. I’m about 50-50 with figuring out mysteries and while I went pretty far with my guesses on this one, when revealed...
...it surprised me.
I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind and the brilliance of it all; its capacity to cope as well as its surprising abilities so much of which is unknown.
This book delves into that in a really cool and unusual way.
Virtually no clues are given and what I mean by that is there were moments where I paused and questioned something because it just didn’t sit right. And of course, it’s only now that I know the truth that these moments make more sense. Trying to figure this one out was like trying to hold liquid in your hands...
Just when I thought I figured it out, Ms. Cole would add another layer that blew my theory out the window! This was riveting, original and brilliant! I'm onto Verum!
***An advance reading copy was generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.***
For more reviews and blog posts.
“But just because we can’t see something doesn’t mean it’s not there.”
Wow, my mind was all over the place with this one trying to put the pieces together and figure out the freakin' secret!!
This is not a standalone. It’s a trilogy and in addition to a secret that's unveiled towards the end of this book, there is also a cliffhanger. BUT, I highly recommend this book! If you like a great mystery, exploration of human psyche and can handle or actually are thrilled (like me) by twisted reads, then you must read this series!
This wasn't as dark as I thought it would be but, there was an eerie feeling that enveloped this story and added to the anticipation surrounding the secret. While the secret seems to be the focus, I thought this story was so much more than that. Ms. Cole doesn’t disappoint with her great writing and creating these complex, flawed and magnetic characters that you can’t help but lose yourself in this story.
About the secret, it's not to say that the hype about this is overdone. It's not. But, when the author promises a secret at the outset of the story, expectations can be really HIGH. Mine were. I’m about 50-50 with figuring out mysteries and while I went pretty far with my guesses on this one, when revealed...
...it surprised me.
I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind and the brilliance of it all; its capacity to cope as well as its surprising abilities so much of which is unknown.
This book delves into that in a really cool and unusual way.
Virtually no clues are given and what I mean by that is there were moments where I paused and questioned something because it just didn’t sit right. And of course, it’s only now that I know the truth that these moments make more sense. Trying to figure this one out was like trying to hold liquid in your hands...
Just when I thought I figured it out, Ms. Cole would add another layer that blew my theory out the window! This was riveting, original and brilliant! I'm onto Verum!
***An advance reading copy was generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.***
For more reviews and blog posts.
January 12, 2015
4.5
The die has been fucking cast.
Seriously, after finishing the book I have so many questions. It's going to drive me crazy waiting for the next book! My mind is still spinning a bit.
While NOCTE wasn't as dark as I had assumed it would be, it was an intriguing, page turner. The suspense kept me on my toes, with twist and turns around every corner. I'll admit that, even though I guessed the twist, it didn't really take away from the story, because it was executed well. And of course it's a cliffhanger, so I will be speculating about what is coming next for months!
The die has been fucking cast.
Seriously, after finishing the book I have so many questions. It's going to drive me crazy waiting for the next book! My mind is still spinning a bit.
While NOCTE wasn't as dark as I had assumed it would be, it was an intriguing, page turner. The suspense kept me on my toes, with twist and turns around every corner. I'll admit that, even though I guessed the twist, it didn't really take away from the story, because it was executed well. And of course it's a cliffhanger, so I will be speculating about what is coming next for months!
November 18, 2014
5 "Secrets. Everybody's got 'em." Stars.
My first impressions after I finished this book...
Nocte by author Courtney Cole is one of those books that grabs your attention from the very first page. It's one of those books that keeps you hooked from the very first page. It keeps you guessing and trying to figure out what each of the characters is hiding and what's going to happen next. But nothing, NOTHING, could have prepared me for the way this book ended, with some very unexpected revelations and a HUGE cliffhanger that makes me want to get my hands on the next book asap.
I won't go in to much detail about the storyline, because that would ruin your reading experience. If you're going to read this book, I'd suggest not reading too much reviews or status updates before going in. Just read the blurb and let the book surprise you along the way.
This was my first book by Courtney Cole and I already know it won't be my last. The way she created suspense and intrigue throughout the story and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading this book, took me by surprise and made me enjoy her writing style even more. Every character in the story has secrets, so many secrets, yet, they were all very likable. Especially Dare...a seemingly typical bad boy, but who turned out to be nothing but sweet and supportive towards Calla. Despite all the secrets between them I'm *really* hoping for a happy ending for these two.
Overall, Nocte was a mind-blowing, heart wrenching and captivating story that I absolutely loved reading. If you're looking for a unique, intense New Adult novel with a drama and romance filled plot, I would highly recommend giving this one a try!
As for me, I'll be (not so patiently) awaiting the sequel, Verum, from now on.
November 20, 2014
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is going to be an almost ALL VISUALS review.
(Fine by me if you ask, the book completely won me over, and I was glad to actually write this down my way. I am still thinking an re-thinking all those little details… Wow.)
Thing is, I can’t say much about this book for fear I’ll give you hints or clue you in about the secret it carries.
What can I say about Nocte, really? I am at loss here.
See, when I first asked my friends about this intriguing book, everyone that had read it suggested—not to say URGED— me to not read a thing about it, to just trust my guts and dive in as blind as I could. And I did just that.
So much that the only thing I had in mind when I started reading this was : the blurry and thought-provoking blurb, and the "Oh my God!" reactions all over my Goodreads’ feed.
Needless to say, I was sold by both early readers’ enthusiasm and the high secrecy around it all.
What it’s safe for me to say are the basics, that you’re going to read a story about Calla and Finn who are brother and sisters and live with their dad in a what you would consider a creepy funeral home. Calla and Finn both share an intimate and special close bond.
Calla is going to meet someone : Dare.
I know, it isn’t much, but those are the only facts I can reveal for now.
This story, as I’m sure you would have assumed by now by the thick as fog mystery surrounding it, is a complete mindfuck. But an Oh so intelligently crafted one.
Courtney Cole really outdid herself here, intricately hinting all through the book at the big secret, but so discreetly that you won’t see it coming until the end.
Something I’m willing to share with you, is a little advice.
If you must read this book, be sure to have a few hours on your own, maybe a retreat in a secluded place where you’ll be sure to not be disturbed. Do not even attempt to start this at bed time, like I foolishly did. Contrary to what its title may impart, Nocte, isn’t a bedtime read. And I’m not even talking about the creepy darkness the whole story is woven in… No. NO.
I’m talking about the fact that Nocte is undisputedly UNPUTDOWNABLE.
Calla, Finn, or more precisely, Courtney Cole, set up the perfect trap. The narration was enthralling, you’ll start reading one page, and find yourself devouring the whole book at 3 AM on a week day.
I wish I could tell you more, share my impressions about all of it, but it would ruin the book for you. But believe me when I tell you that this author is very talented, so much so that I was actually hearing ALL the characters. And this creeped me the F*** out !!!
Now, this isn’t over, we’re only closing one chapter of the Nocte Trilogy, and I must warn you about the mother of all cliffhanger at the end of Nocte. Maybe one of the worst I’ve EVER read.
I knew about it, I usually won’t even read trilogies because of this, but I think in this case, the cliffhanger is justified. We’ve been given answers, but those answers are just adding fuel to the whole mystery, and to be honest I was glad for that. The whole purpose of this trilogy would be null if not for the incessant questions it leaves you with.
(By the way, thanks to Lana who had the patience to hear all my ramblings an theories, and who stayed my friend even though at some point I was almost stalking her for answers!)
You want to think and re-think all little details, test all the theories before heading to book 2, Verum , which isn’t released yet. (February, 2nd, 2015)
I sincerely hope this review will help or motivate you to pick this book, even though I’m not saying much about it. I don’t think I could categorize Nocte as YA or Romance, it was a little bit of both actually, but the main attraction here definitely are the Suspense and Mystery.
Ultimately, the only thing you really have to know is that Nocte is a real page turner, and that you’d be a fool to miss it out!
•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*••*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•
Wonder Woman, over.
This is going to be an almost ALL VISUALS review.
(Fine by me if you ask, the book completely won me over, and I was glad to actually write this down my way. I am still thinking an re-thinking all those little details… Wow.)
Thing is, I can’t say much about this book for fear I’ll give you hints or clue you in about the secret it carries.
What can I say about Nocte, really? I am at loss here.
See, when I first asked my friends about this intriguing book, everyone that had read it suggested—not to say URGED— me to not read a thing about it, to just trust my guts and dive in as blind as I could. And I did just that.
So much that the only thing I had in mind when I started reading this was : the blurry and thought-provoking blurb, and the "Oh my God!" reactions all over my Goodreads’ feed.
Needless to say, I was sold by both early readers’ enthusiasm and the high secrecy around it all.
What it’s safe for me to say are the basics, that you’re going to read a story about Calla and Finn who are brother and sisters and live with their dad in a what you would consider a creepy funeral home. Calla and Finn both share an intimate and special close bond.
Calla is going to meet someone : Dare.
I know, it isn’t much, but those are the only facts I can reveal for now.
This story, as I’m sure you would have assumed by now by the thick as fog mystery surrounding it, is a complete mindfuck. But an Oh so intelligently crafted one.
Courtney Cole really outdid herself here, intricately hinting all through the book at the big secret, but so discreetly that you won’t see it coming until the end.
Nocte liber sum NOCTE LIBER SUM
By night I am free.
Alea iacta est The die has been cast. The die has been cast.
The die has been fucking cast.
Serva me, serva bo te. Save me and I will save you.
Save me.
Save me.
Save me.
Something I’m willing to share with you, is a little advice.
If you must read this book, be sure to have a few hours on your own, maybe a retreat in a secluded place where you’ll be sure to not be disturbed. Do not even attempt to start this at bed time, like I foolishly did. Contrary to what its title may impart, Nocte, isn’t a bedtime read. And I’m not even talking about the creepy darkness the whole story is woven in… No. NO.
I’m talking about the fact that Nocte is undisputedly UNPUTDOWNABLE.
Calla, Finn, or more precisely, Courtney Cole, set up the perfect trap. The narration was enthralling, you’ll start reading one page, and find yourself devouring the whole book at 3 AM on a week day.
I wish I could tell you more, share my impressions about all of it, but it would ruin the book for you. But believe me when I tell you that this author is very talented, so much so that I was actually hearing ALL the characters. And this creeped me the F*** out !!!
“FuckYouYouCan’tDoAnything. HurtMeMotherfucker. YouCan’tDoAnything. You’reSoFucked. HurtMe. HurtMe. HurtHer. Can’tDoAnything. KillMeNow.”Act normal
Now, this isn’t over, we’re only closing one chapter of the Nocte Trilogy, and I must warn you about the mother of all cliffhanger at the end of Nocte. Maybe one of the worst I’ve EVER read.
I knew about it, I usually won’t even read trilogies because of this, but I think in this case, the cliffhanger is justified. We’ve been given answers, but those answers are just adding fuel to the whole mystery, and to be honest I was glad for that. The whole purpose of this trilogy would be null if not for the incessant questions it leaves you with.
(By the way, thanks to Lana who had the patience to hear all my ramblings an theories, and who stayed my friend even though at some point I was almost stalking her for answers!)
You want to think and re-think all little details, test all the theories before heading to book 2, Verum , which isn’t released yet. (February, 2nd, 2015)
Despite our secrets.
Or maybe even because of them.
I sincerely hope this review will help or motivate you to pick this book, even though I’m not saying much about it. I don’t think I could categorize Nocte as YA or Romance, it was a little bit of both actually, but the main attraction here definitely are the Suspense and Mystery.
Ultimately, the only thing you really have to know is that Nocte is a real page turner, and that you’d be a fool to miss it out!
•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*••*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•
Wonder Woman, over.
November 17, 2014
5 Secrets in the Darkness Stars
Nocte liber sum...
As many other reviewers have already stated, there is no way that I can review this book without giving away a little bit of the plot and utterly destroying your reading experience. Go for it completely unaware and let it catch you off guard. Let it stomp all over your heart and haunt your days and nights.
So, this is Calla's story. A girl living a life of grief and pain. A coming of age and secrets. So many of them surround her. And her demons are caughting up with her. Courtney Cole is spinning a complex story, masterfully. The haunting scenery and the alternate POV's suffocate the reader and have him second-guessing everything until the gut-wrenching finale, that raises a whole other league of questions.
READ IT! And now, please, let me despair until the next one comes out...
Nocte liber sum...
Holy Shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit...
As many other reviewers have already stated, there is no way that I can review this book without giving away a little bit of the plot and utterly destroying your reading experience. Go for it completely unaware and let it catch you off guard. Let it stomp all over your heart and haunt your days and nights.
So, this is Calla's story. A girl living a life of grief and pain. A coming of age and secrets. So many of them surround her. And her demons are caughting up with her. Courtney Cole is spinning a complex story, masterfully. The haunting scenery and the alternate POV's suffocate the reader and have him second-guessing everything until the gut-wrenching finale, that raises a whole other league of questions.
READ IT! And now, please, let me despair until the next one comes out...
November 5, 2014
Seriously???
Now when I thought that I'm out of this insanity, there's a new secret to unravel???!!!
Fucking Cliffhanger!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What????!!!!!!! next book will be releasing on February???!!!
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?????
***************************************
6 hours 40 mins later....
Courtney Cole writes one hell of a cliffhanger!!! I have no clue how to write this review without giving away the spoilers!! I can just say that reading blurb is enough to get your attention to read this mindblowing story and I went in knowing nothing!
This story revolves around Calla and the mystery surrounding her brother Finn, who’s diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder and the only person who can save him is her. Finn is her twin brother, her best friend and half her soul. Nobody understands his craziness like she does and she’s the only one to calm the voices in his head, she says that she can sense everything about Finn (a twin thing!) but can she feel the depth of his insanity, the constant wailing of voices to a point where he can't filter them from his? Will she go to any extent to save him even if that means she has to go down with him??
The only time Calla feels alive is when she is with Dare DuBray a mysterious British hottie who enters her life when she’s drowning in grief after sudden tragedy in her family. He makes her happy, heals her pain, and keeps her sane. There is a strong connection between the two, she knows his touch, his smile, depth in his eyes and she dreams of him every night even before she has met him!! What is the mystery behind his sudden appearance? why does she feel he is her savior?
Calla is tangled in the web of secrets, what happens when she finally figures it out??!!!
Nocte is a psychological thriller which will leave you speechless/emotional (yep! Couldn’t hold back my tears) many hours after reading it. Every page reeks of secrecy, you can’t help but keep guessing the secret/s, most of the time the story felt creepy and haunting that I started to consider it as paranormal that’s how well Courtney writes this story - full of suspense, capturing every event, every emotion so well even when she describes the setting it feels so real.
Rating Clarification : Couldn’t give complete 5 stars because it was not all that addictive and not fast paced but enough to keep you turning the pages!! Honestly if it was not for last 10% the story would have been boring that is if you are an impatient person.
Now when I thought that I'm out of this insanity, there's a new secret to unravel???!!!
Fucking Cliffhanger!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What????!!!!!!! next book will be releasing on February???!!!
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?????
***************************************
6 hours 40 mins later....
Courtney Cole writes one hell of a cliffhanger!!! I have no clue how to write this review without giving away the spoilers!! I can just say that reading blurb is enough to get your attention to read this mindblowing story and I went in knowing nothing!
This story revolves around Calla and the mystery surrounding her brother Finn, who’s diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder and the only person who can save him is her. Finn is her twin brother, her best friend and half her soul. Nobody understands his craziness like she does and she’s the only one to calm the voices in his head, she says that she can sense everything about Finn (a twin thing!) but can she feel the depth of his insanity, the constant wailing of voices to a point where he can't filter them from his? Will she go to any extent to save him even if that means she has to go down with him??
The only time Calla feels alive is when she is with Dare DuBray a mysterious British hottie who enters her life when she’s drowning in grief after sudden tragedy in her family. He makes her happy, heals her pain, and keeps her sane. There is a strong connection between the two, she knows his touch, his smile, depth in his eyes and she dreams of him every night even before she has met him!! What is the mystery behind his sudden appearance? why does she feel he is her savior?
Calla is tangled in the web of secrets, what happens when she finally figures it out??!!!
Nocte is a psychological thriller which will leave you speechless/emotional (yep! Couldn’t hold back my tears) many hours after reading it. Every page reeks of secrecy, you can’t help but keep guessing the secret/s, most of the time the story felt creepy and haunting that I started to consider it as paranormal that’s how well Courtney writes this story - full of suspense, capturing every event, every emotion so well even when she describes the setting it feels so real.
Rating Clarification : Couldn’t give complete 5 stars because it was not all that addictive and not fast paced but enough to keep you turning the pages!! Honestly if it was not for last 10% the story would have been boring that is if you are an impatient person.
December 27, 2020
"Secrets. Everybody's got'em." -Dare DuBray
There was this huge secrecy involved in the release of this book and I'm not sure how much I want/can tell you about the story ☺
Ok - here's my hopefully totally spoiler-free review:
This is where it all happens....
Astoria, Oregon.
Calla is a 18 year old (soon to be Calfornia - College) girl, who lives in a funeral home on top of a mountain in Astoria.
Which sounds creepier than it is - her Dad is the mortician ... she's not just randomly living in a funeral home ☺
She has a twin brother: Finn.
He's the most important person in her life. But Finn is different. He's sick. Mentally. Ever since he was a little boy he's been hearing violent voices in his head. And Calla feels she has to protect him - mostly from himself - because what she recently saw in his journal scared the hell out of her.
Calla quiets the voices. She's the only thing that does.
Their mom died in car accident a few weeks ago and Calla feels responsible for that too.
Then there's the new guy: Dare. Adair DuBray.
A really hot 21 year old guy with a sexy british accent.
Calla meets him in the hospital while she was waiting for Finn to be done with his group therapy.
He's go a million contradictions in his eyes...aloofness, warmth, mystery, charm, and something else I can't define.
And that's all I'm telling you about the story ☺ I don't want to spoil too much...
You will have to read it yourself if you want to know what's going to happen to Calla & Dare. If there is anything happening between them in the first place.
And is Finn going to be jealous? What are his voices telling him to do???
Will Calla leave for college??
How does a british boy end up in Astoria anyway???
What secret is Finn always talking about?
Will everybody die at the end??
Will there be a horrible Cliffhanger??
Nope - I'm not telling you ☺
Ok - I can tell you that there won't be a horrible cliffhanging Cliffhanger, nobody will literally hang off or fall off a Cliff (probably☺) - but... we still WANT/NEED/HAVE to read Book #2 ASAP! ☺
══════════════════
I REALLY LOoOVED THE BOOK!
When I saw this ARC on my Kindle I was sooo shocked - I couldn't even remember signing up for it ☺ But, damn, am I glad I did!!!
I totally loved the secrecy surrounding the whole release. I never saw anything like it before - let alone had the privilege to participate in it....
In the beginning there wasn't even a real blurb - nobody knew what the story was about!!
Turned out it is a New Adult Romance - but with lots of twists...
It's totally different than most of the other New Adult thingies out there.
The story is told from both Calla's and Finn's POV - but we're with Calla most of the time.
We really love all the people in the book - there aren't all that many... but we LOVE Calla & Finn and phew...DARE!!!!!
As I was reading the first 10-30% I noticed I started reading steadily slower and slower - I didn't want to get to the end...
But of course I had to give up the slow-reading at some point - you just HAVE to know how the story continues.... you just CAN'T put your kindle down!!!
This was such an emotional book...
I felt so sad for Finn ... the poor boy...
There were lots of scenes that made me and Dawson cry!!! ☺
...we have a few romantic/sexy scenes - not many - mostly it's a bit of kissing here and there ☺
But most of the book was really absolutely emotional.
Everything that happens ... everything you assume happened and is going to happen...
But you really have no idea, and you're just scared that you won't like whatever it is ....
BUT I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF THIS BOOK!!!!
I was up until 3am finishing it!!!!
And the END??? OY!!!!!
NOCTE was a heartstoppingly amazing & beautiful 'edge-of-your-seat' suspensy Rollercoaster-Ride Romance! I couldn't put it down!
This gif might be the best description of NOCTE:
☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺ ☺
I loooooved it - and I won't say more than that - everything more I could and would want to say about NOCTE would be a spoiler!!!! You need to get yourselves to amazon on November 3rd and one-click the hell out of this book!!!!!!
And now please Courtney - hurry with book #2!!!!!!!
October 31, 2014
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Title:Nocte
Series:Not named
Author:Courtney Cole
Release date: November 3, 2014
Rating:5 stars
Cliffhanger:Yes
HEA:
If you're still questioning reading this, don't. You don't want to miss out on this one. Dear God. I'm reeling.
We're warned in the Forward of the book by the author:
"I once considered not writing this story. It was too dark, too twisted, too much, too, too, too."
Now that I've read it, I would have to agree with her. Twisted is definitely a word that comes to the forefront of my mind. Because my mind was twisting and bending backwards the whole time trying to solve the secret and the mystery. It was mind boggling.
I'm not a dark book reader normally but I've loved this author's writing in the past so I decided to take a chance and give it a shot. Do I regret this decision?
Kind-of-sort of-yes, because the ending was so tense, my nerves were raw and I felt like I needed some therapy afterwards in order to recover from all that anxiety. Especially since the ending was the absolute worst cliffhanger I have ever read. Can we just talk about that for a second? I've read quite a few of them in my time, but this one is painful. Courtney, why, WHY, WHY, did you do this to me?! It's not fair, I tell you! It's insane how badly I need the next book. Yes, you're given revelations finally at the end, but even more questions are exposed and I was still left feeling disturbed that I didn't have all the pieces put together.
Also, no I didn't regret reading this because as suspenseful as this book was, I was extremely impressed with how well written it was. I've read and enjoyed several other books by this author but they don't hold a candle to this one. It sucked me in like a vortex that it was impossible to escape from. Once I started reading this, my curiosity and the sense of doom only escalated until I was desperate to get to the end. And when I finally did, I was nervous that the answers wouldn't live up to huge anticipation that was constructed meticulously through the entire book. Well, let's just chuck that idea out the window because not only did it shock and surprise me but it was something that made me replay everything I read in my mind in order to make sense of it all. It was phenomenal! The ambiguity of the book was what kept my mind racing literally the whole time theorizing and analyzing and dissecting every word and expression from each character in order to find a clue.
It was absolutely one of the best books I have read all year.
This review has to be pretty vague on details but honestly, you'll thank me for it later if you read this. If I even gave on clue about the characters or the plot I would be doing you wrong. The best part about this book is the mystery surrounding everything. Courtney Cole has given us a book that's ominous, torturous, and chilling. The not knowing is what messes with your head. What is real and what isn't? Who are the antagonists and who are the protagonists? I wasn't even sure about that. Everyone's motives were in question. That's what made reading this so unusual for me. I couldn't get a handle on the characters so I didn't know if I was rooting for them or if I should even like them. And that definitely made the romance a little tricky for me but I was okay with that.
The general sinister feeling of the book only multiplied but you weren't sure why. Only that something big was going to happen.
The plot development was precise and well layered. There was no pre-made formula here, it was all originality against the spooky backdrop of a gothic cliffside funeral home. Would I do it all over again? In a heartbeat. It was frustrating but the biggest rush at the same time. The cloud of uncertainty was exhilarating and relentless. I can't say enough about this book. How it left such an impact on me and turned me inside out. If you're looking for something predictable and easy, I would suggest passing on this one because you're not going to get that here.
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Title:Nocte
Series:Not named
Author:Courtney Cole
Release date: November 3, 2014
Rating:5 stars
Cliffhanger:Yes
HEA:
If you're still questioning reading this, don't. You don't want to miss out on this one. Dear God. I'm reeling.
We're warned in the Forward of the book by the author:
"I once considered not writing this story. It was too dark, too twisted, too much, too, too, too."
Now that I've read it, I would have to agree with her. Twisted is definitely a word that comes to the forefront of my mind. Because my mind was twisting and bending backwards the whole time trying to solve the secret and the mystery. It was mind boggling.
I'm not a dark book reader normally but I've loved this author's writing in the past so I decided to take a chance and give it a shot. Do I regret this decision?
Kind-of-sort of-yes, because the ending was so tense, my nerves were raw and I felt like I needed some therapy afterwards in order to recover from all that anxiety. Especially since the ending was the absolute worst cliffhanger I have ever read. Can we just talk about that for a second? I've read quite a few of them in my time, but this one is painful. Courtney, why, WHY, WHY, did you do this to me?! It's not fair, I tell you! It's insane how badly I need the next book. Yes, you're given revelations finally at the end, but even more questions are exposed and I was still left feeling disturbed that I didn't have all the pieces put together.
Also, no I didn't regret reading this because as suspenseful as this book was, I was extremely impressed with how well written it was. I've read and enjoyed several other books by this author but they don't hold a candle to this one. It sucked me in like a vortex that it was impossible to escape from. Once I started reading this, my curiosity and the sense of doom only escalated until I was desperate to get to the end. And when I finally did, I was nervous that the answers wouldn't live up to huge anticipation that was constructed meticulously through the entire book. Well, let's just chuck that idea out the window because not only did it shock and surprise me but it was something that made me replay everything I read in my mind in order to make sense of it all. It was phenomenal! The ambiguity of the book was what kept my mind racing literally the whole time theorizing and analyzing and dissecting every word and expression from each character in order to find a clue.
It was absolutely one of the best books I have read all year.
This review has to be pretty vague on details but honestly, you'll thank me for it later if you read this. If I even gave on clue about the characters or the plot I would be doing you wrong. The best part about this book is the mystery surrounding everything. Courtney Cole has given us a book that's ominous, torturous, and chilling. The not knowing is what messes with your head. What is real and what isn't? Who are the antagonists and who are the protagonists? I wasn't even sure about that. Everyone's motives were in question. That's what made reading this so unusual for me. I couldn't get a handle on the characters so I didn't know if I was rooting for them or if I should even like them. And that definitely made the romance a little tricky for me but I was okay with that.
The general sinister feeling of the book only multiplied but you weren't sure why. Only that something big was going to happen.
The plot development was precise and well layered. There was no pre-made formula here, it was all originality against the spooky backdrop of a gothic cliffside funeral home. Would I do it all over again? In a heartbeat. It was frustrating but the biggest rush at the same time. The cloud of uncertainty was exhilarating and relentless. I can't say enough about this book. How it left such an impact on me and turned me inside out. If you're looking for something predictable and easy, I would suggest passing on this one because you're not going to get that here.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
July 25, 2016
Didn't see that twist coming!
7 out of 10
7 out of 10
October 29, 2014
“Do you know what it’s like to not be able to change something?”
How do you even beginning reviewing a book that left you utterly speechless? This fascinating, astonishing, gripping story completely mesmerised me, stealing my mind away from the very first sentence and bewitching it with a reality that kept me questioning everything in it. Including my own mind. Unlike anything I have ever read before—from its atmospheric setting and the level of detail in every single scene, to the meticulous pace and unexpected points of view—this phenomenal book quite literally consumed me cover to cover. I felt mentally ‘stranded’ at the end of it, unable to return to normal life and stop thinking about all that unfolded, and you know what? I absolutely adored every mind-wrecking moment of it.
“…it should’ve been me in the first place. Finn is a better person than I am… Finn really is better. He’s funny and witty and smart, and his soul is as gentle as they come. He’s the one who deserved to be healthy. Not me. I’m the snarky, sarcastic one.”
Calla Price is an eighteen-year-old girl from a small coastal town, whose unusual childhood of being raised in a funeral home has made her the target of constant mockery and ostracism by other kids of her age. But nothing in her young life has touched her as deeply and as permanently as growing up with a twin brother whose mental disorder has forced her to act as his protector ever since he first started hearing violent voices in his head as a small child. She has often felt unworthy of her own mental stability, wishing it had been her born ill rather than her kind, beloved brother—the brother who has always run to her to quiet the demons in his head and seek comfort from her—but she has embraced her role as his guardian with no regrets, putting his wellbeing before anything and anyone else.
“I’m the one he comes to when he’s afraid.”
But it is her mother’s sudden death that changes Calla’s life forever, leaving the family under a heavy cloud of grief, disconnected and adrift, and leaving Calla drowning in her own heartache and guilt for the hand she believes she played in that tragedy. Facing her last summer at home before she goes to college, Calla’s life sees its first ray of hope when she meets Dair, a handsome but mysterious young traveller, whose mere presence in her life starts awakening something in Calla that she’s never felt before—optimism. However, the more time she spends with Dair and the more happiness she feels while in his company, the more her guilt grows. And that guilt is only exacerbated by the evident deterioration of Finn’s mental state. By hearing her brother’s voice as well, we see the true extent of his illness, we get to witness it firsthand, and it is a frightening sight. But we also see his unconditional love for his sister and his inner struggle to stay as sane as he can be for her sake. And we see the way her growing closeness to Dair affects him, how much he needs things to stay the same, and how guilty he feels for feeling that way.
Dare, however, is not just a handsome Englishman who gallops in and steals Calla from the reality of her own life—his own secrets weigh heavily upon him, affecting his every interaction with her, and setting the pace for the way their relationship develops.
“You’re going to be the death of me.”
“Why?”
“Because you’re so much better than I deserve.”
A slow building, carefully plotted scenario, a psychological thriller of sorts, which then culminates in a jaw-dropping finale which sends our minds racing in a million different directions. I am not sure a review could ever truly capture the mood of this book, the unique way it plays with our minds, because every single word in it serves a multitude of purposes, manipulating our thoughts being just one of them. I was so totally immersed in it all that I felt every icy raindrop, every chilly breeze, every lazy sea wave. I absolutely adored this story and even though it leaves us in a happy-for-now place, I am already hungry for more. But also very happy to wait a little while I put my poor heart back together stitch by stitch…
“You make me feel guilty… Because you make me forget that I’m sad.”
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Read
November 5, 2014I was totally sucked in by the intrigue surrounding this book, and HAD to check it out. Now, okay, I read it and there's absolutely nothing I can say without giving stuff away, lol! I will just tell you that I read it from start to finish in just over a day, which is rare for me anymore. I had NO idea what was going on - I had lots of guesses, but none were completely correct, so I was definitely surprised. It's suspenseful, spooky, and romantic. The way she wove it all together was amazing - brilliant storytelling. Wow.
July 1, 2020
New Adult Dark Contemporary with hints of paranormal, 1st person multiple
***update: for some random reason I decided to finish this (I mean I made 3/4 of the way.) And I don't want to say anything to spoil anything but I'm changing my rating from 1 star to 2 stars. The ending was cool. But I had to skip ahead a lot***
***I have DNF'd at 72%
2017
I really tried to give this one an honest go. I wanted to like it. I wanted to love it. But I just. Did. Not.
I don't read contemporary. It's not my thing. (That should've been my sign). But occasionally one will pique & hold my interest (i.e.: The Royals by Erin Watt). And I thought Nocte would. The premise led on to a Paranormal feel. And the dark and disturbed vibes and strange relationship of Calla and Finn really, really piqued my interest.
But I came to find out that the writing and the not-so plot did not hold my interest.
This was just so cliche it became laughable.
I DNF'd at what I call "the Titanic scene".
Need I say more?
Actually that's a lie. Because I realllllllly wanted to like this, I tried to press on after the Titanic rip-off and then we came to the cliche caught in the rain thing and I'm done.
The characters were 2d, cookie-cutter, dull unoriginal. We've got the classic Naive-18-old-never-been-kissed-virgin, the Angry brother, and the Dark-and-mysterious-bad-boy.
Bad-boy is tall. Dark. Handsome. Secretive. Rides a motorcycle. Wow. Really? How unique. And there's nothing about him that made me even care to find out what his "secrets" are. I'm assuming just like every other bad-boy from all romance novels and movies.
The romance was obnoxious. All Insta-love & "kiss me", "I shouldn't", "Why?", "You deserve better (but he won't say why)" type of cliche and predictable *eye roll*
The only cool part, I'd say was the setting. I've been to Astoria, Oregon on a few occasions. My brother was a Coasty there. And 3 of his children were born there (including a set of twin girls. I'm like, cool, I'm relating to the story). Plus both The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop were filmed there. It's a beautiful & charming little coastal town.
And the funeral home was cool. Goth. Set a nice tone. Made me think of My Girl a bit. But still it also led on to Paranormal vibes *sighs* This would've fit into that genre so nicely.
I feel like if this were written in either 3rd person or from Finn's point of view it might have held a better, less annoying-swoony-air-headed-female narrative & had the intrigue of a touch of something supernatural going on, it would be a great start to something cool.
(I like run-on sentences)
So what led me to this book? I must tell you because it's incredible: do yourself a favour and go check out @phantomrin on IG (anybody who's anybody knows who that is) THE FAN ART is what's INCREDIBLE!!
Seriously you will surely be overcome with a strong urge to negate this review and read Nocte after your eyes have tasted of @phantomrin's fan art!
***update: for some random reason I decided to finish this (I mean I made 3/4 of the way.) And I don't want to say anything to spoil anything but I'm changing my rating from 1 star to 2 stars. The ending was cool. But I had to skip ahead a lot***
***I have DNF'd at 72%
2017
I really tried to give this one an honest go. I wanted to like it. I wanted to love it. But I just. Did. Not.
I don't read contemporary. It's not my thing. (That should've been my sign). But occasionally one will pique & hold my interest (i.e.: The Royals by Erin Watt). And I thought Nocte would. The premise led on to a Paranormal feel. And the dark and disturbed vibes and strange relationship of Calla and Finn really, really piqued my interest.
But I came to find out that the writing and the not-so plot did not hold my interest.
This was just so cliche it became laughable.
I DNF'd at what I call "the Titanic scene".
Need I say more?
Actually that's a lie. Because I realllllllly wanted to like this, I tried to press on after the Titanic rip-off and then we came to the cliche caught in the rain thing and I'm done.
The characters were 2d, cookie-cutter, dull unoriginal. We've got the classic Naive-18-old-never-been-kissed-virgin, the Angry brother, and the Dark-and-mysterious-bad-boy.
Bad-boy is tall. Dark. Handsome. Secretive. Rides a motorcycle. Wow. Really? How unique. And there's nothing about him that made me even care to find out what his "secrets" are. I'm assuming just like every other bad-boy from all romance novels and movies.
The romance was obnoxious. All Insta-love & "kiss me", "I shouldn't", "Why?", "You deserve better (but he won't say why)" type of cliche and predictable *eye roll*
The only cool part, I'd say was the setting. I've been to Astoria, Oregon on a few occasions. My brother was a Coasty there. And 3 of his children were born there (including a set of twin girls. I'm like, cool, I'm relating to the story). Plus both The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop were filmed there. It's a beautiful & charming little coastal town.
And the funeral home was cool. Goth. Set a nice tone. Made me think of My Girl a bit. But still it also led on to Paranormal vibes *sighs* This would've fit into that genre so nicely.
I feel like if this were written in either 3rd person or from Finn's point of view it might have held a better, less annoying-swoony-air-headed-female narrative & had the intrigue of a touch of something supernatural going on, it would be a great start to something cool.
(I like run-on sentences)
So what led me to this book? I must tell you because it's incredible: do yourself a favour and go check out @phantomrin on IG (anybody who's anybody knows who that is) THE FAN ART is what's INCREDIBLE!!
Seriously you will surely be overcome with a strong urge to negate this review and read Nocte after your eyes have tasted of @phantomrin's fan art!
June 8, 2016
“I wrote this story the way it needed to be written. I couldn’t sugarcoat it. I couldn’t water it down. It is this way because the story demands it. I’m not sorry.”
Wow guys, this book is absolutely amazing. I mean, UNBELIEVABLE.
First and as I always do with books that amaze me, like this one , give merit of this incredible writing for Courtney Cole. It was my first experience reading one of her books and I can say that obviously not be the last.
The plot is brilliant from the start until the last page, I can assure you that I wanted to solve everything that was going on, trying to guess the end and I could not !. And of course, I love that has been so hard for me to solve , everything that happens is so unexpected, has left me speechless in the last pages.
So in terms of mystery and revelation that contains wins all my stars :)
“But just because we can’t see something doesn’t mean it’s not there.”
I liked the character of Calla, a very strong girl and her connection with her brother is really unique, I also like the bold and somewhat daring she is along the plot, especially with Dare, these hot dialogues they have are addictive, they make me blush more than once.
I confess that there were times when I was thinking like:" You should not be looking for your brother instead of want to have sex with the super sexy guy?" LOL . But then in the course of the history you will understand more how things work. :)
And of course then we have Dare is the perfect guy we all want in our lives, YES. But above all it is a super interesting character who always is keeping secrets and that is a mystery surrounding him what makes you can't stop reading. This sexy British boy completely won my heart, and all the way you can realize how sweet he is :3. I hope he don't disappoint me in the next one ! That gives me so much fear and uncertainty .
“My other half-- my twin brother, my Finn-- is crazy. I love him. More than life, more than anything. And even though I’m terrified he’ll suck me down with him, no one can save him but me.”
The Finn's POV is amazing , is that this book is so well written that it amazes ; These chapters have all the mystery, which gives much suspense the book and manages to leave you breathless! . Omg, LOVE THOSE CHAPTERS SO MUCH! . #goosebumps
The place where the story takes place it's beautiful , I think it is, of the places in contemporary readings , one of that I liked the most for its great beauty , manages to be scary and be lovely at the same time.
And finally, the last 50 pages are just WHAT THE F*** really still can't believe what I just read!.
All revelations and all my tears!. #ICAN'TWITHMYSELFRIGHTNOW.
I don't want to spoiler anything to you guys , but I really want to recommend this book, even to read it , if you want to , like a stand-alone. I can assure you will love it :D, but once you finish it I think you will die of wanting to continue to the next one :)
Want to read
February 12, 2015
Everyone is reading this right now , and I find the story very intriguing.So I need feedback.Is this worth reading?
December 4, 2016
Setting: Astoria, Oregon
Steamy times?
Triggers? None
This book has a VERY slow build-up, but the blend of mystery and suspense was almost perfection! The storyline dragged a bit (around 69%) with Calla Price's thoughts becoming slightly repetitive and the story still inching towards a makeshift conclusion, but the author's careful use of keywords made this book a great read! I figured out early on what the ending would amount to and that predictability sort of marred the storyline for me and skewed my ability to enjoy this book as much, but the ominous ending created a nice doorway to book two!
Having read the spoilers for book two and three, it's highly unlikely that I will continue reading this series, but this won't be my last time reading this author's work! En-joyed!
Steamy times?
Triggers? None
This book has a VERY slow build-up, but the blend of mystery and suspense was almost perfection! The storyline dragged a bit (around 69%) with Calla Price's thoughts becoming slightly repetitive and the story still inching towards a makeshift conclusion, but the author's careful use of keywords made this book a great read! I figured out early on what the ending would amount to and that predictability sort of marred the storyline for me and skewed my ability to enjoy this book as much, but the ominous ending created a nice doorway to book two!
Having read the spoilers for book two and three, it's highly unlikely that I will continue reading this series, but this won't be my last time reading this author's work! En-joyed!
November 21, 2014
2.5 Disappointed Stars.
I'm going to go against popular opinion and not rate Nocte stellar. I went into this book with high hopes of an all-consuming page-turner. I instead had a really difficult time keeping focused on the story. My mind wandered as I read. I set it down often and just couldn't get into it. Any other book, I would've dnf'ed it. But so many friends loved it...I painfully held on.
Unlike 90% of disappointed reviews, I'm NOT going to fill mine with spoilers as this is a book you want to embark on with very little knowledge.
I guess my biggest issue is I didn't feel connected with the main character, Calla. Her behaviors were just frustrating for me throughout. Nocte is in dual POV between Calla and her twin brother Finn. It's mysterious and the reader is left trying to figure out the secrets the characters are harboring. Most mysterious books I've read, enough hints are trickle fed to the reader to keep them guessing. I guess I didn't pick up on those hints here so I wasn't captivated at all. So instead of making me anxiously turning the pages for answers, I found myself feeling like I really don't care what their secret story was. Neither my heart nor mind just was invested.
This book is definitely YA. It is NOT erotic. It's not really all that romantic either. Call me a whore but no sex until 78%? That might be another reason for my attention deficit. It definitely made me remember why I've banned YA.
But seriously, don't take my word for it. There's tons of readers that loved this book. I just didn't connect, had little interest in the outcome, and quite frankly skimmed the last 20% of the book. Then when I finally get answers, I'm like, "huh?" It wasn't an ah-ha moment for me at all. Not like some books where you want to go back and re-read it for clues.
Can't win them all. Moving on...
November 25, 2014
One of the books I have been anxiously waiting to read this November was new Courtney Cole novel, Nocte. After so many mysterious teasers and no actual synopsis until the very end, I was so curious to see what it will be about. Am I happy that I read it? Absolutely! But was it what I expected? Sadly, no.
It was unexpectedly expected.
Maybe the problem is me and not the book. This year I've read several novels with the same general idea but different approach. I won't talk about what Nocte is about, because everything could be possible spoiler and trust me, you do not want even a hint of the spoiler if you wish to enjoy reading this book. I know - I was my own damn spoiler. I guessed what is the big secret and what could have happened. Funny thing - when you read enough stories that should leave you with your mouth hanging open and buzzing in your ears (maybe even a little bit of terror and repulsion), you figure out pattern of those stories. That shocking moment is never really a surprise for you.
Bad writing.
I was talking with my friend about this book and she asked me to explain what was the biggest no for me. It wasn't the fact that I new what would happen - actually, I really enjoyed reading it despite that, I was curious to see how will everything unravel. Thing that annoyed me the most was writing. Cliche and repetitive, making it impossible to get into the fictional world and forget everything else.
I'm wondering...
...what will other two books be about, since Nocte is the first book of the trilogy. I will probably read them because of, as I already said, I did enjoy reading Nocte and I'm wondering what is a deal with Dare.
Should you read it? Definitely yes if you enjoy suspenseful and angsty new adult stories.
Review posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
It was unexpectedly expected.
Maybe the problem is me and not the book. This year I've read several novels with the same general idea but different approach. I won't talk about what Nocte is about, because everything could be possible spoiler and trust me, you do not want even a hint of the spoiler if you wish to enjoy reading this book. I know - I was my own damn spoiler. I guessed what is the big secret and what could have happened. Funny thing - when you read enough stories that should leave you with your mouth hanging open and buzzing in your ears (maybe even a little bit of terror and repulsion), you figure out pattern of those stories. That shocking moment is never really a surprise for you.
Bad writing.
I was talking with my friend about this book and she asked me to explain what was the biggest no for me. It wasn't the fact that I new what would happen - actually, I really enjoyed reading it despite that, I was curious to see how will everything unravel. Thing that annoyed me the most was writing. Cliche and repetitive, making it impossible to get into the fictional world and forget everything else.
I'm wondering...
...what will other two books be about, since Nocte is the first book of the trilogy. I will probably read them because of, as I already said, I did enjoy reading Nocte and I'm wondering what is a deal with Dare.
Should you read it? Definitely yes if you enjoy suspenseful and angsty new adult stories.
Review posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
March 31, 2016
I'm sorry but
Because I can't stand it anymore.
I finished it! I know, I'm impressed too.
Non review quote!
# 1 "I'm Adair DuBray," he tells me, like he's bestowing a gift or an honor. "But everyone calls me Dare."
I've never seen a name so fitting. So French, so sophisticated, yet his accent is British. He's an enigma. An enigma whose eyes gleam like they're constantly saying Dare me."
And #1 bis, because I love you people.
"startingly handsome face"
"He's got a British accent"
Oh, yes, the accent. The handsome face. The flushing girl. Never seen that before.
I spare you the hot ...something something... omg he STARES ...something something... oh he stares again ...something something... but his accent dammit that's so sexy!
Seriously, I'm genuinely concerned about Calla's health. I mean, the girl seems to forget to breathe all the time.
Annnnd we have to go on, shall we?
# 2 " I think it's probably kismet, anyway. That you and I are here at the same time, I mean."
Obviously, DUH. I'm sure there is something behind it, but still.
# 3 " My lungs feel fluttery, along with my heart, my stomach and my ovaries."
ARE YOU F*CKING SERIOUS?
Meanwhile, let's be a little understanding. The guy just showed up, and "all I know he's here, out of the blue today, with his dark eyes and British accent and on a motorcycle, no less."
NO LESS!!
Basically, I should have counted the number of times I read the word chemistry to describe their relationship.
Writer's tip : Don't talk about chemistry, but let us feel it. Please. Because here I just wanted to roll my eyes something fierce. ALL. THE. TIME.
# 4 "I don't hesitate. I don't know why. Maybe because he's been in my dreams so often, it's like I know him already."
Oh Boy. YEAH, sure girl. Fortunately when we dream we always know what the best for us is. Or, do we? Sure about it?
And the best... wait for it...
#5 "It's that thing that real men do, the guiding a woman across the room thing. It's gentlemanly and chivalrous and my ovaries might explode from it because it's intimate and familiar and sexy."
(I underlined)
I'm not even sure I can think about the meanings behind that statement without beginning to throw things. I've got shivers and killer instinct right now.
But that's okay, because when she tries to use his words to speak, he "smiles in appreciation of [her] effort."
Isn't he lovely?
So maybe there is a wonderful plot twist later, maybe. Apparently there is, and if you want to try it, go.
But me? I just don't care, I can't wait for it.
I quit.
Also, I found the writing awful. And I'm french, for god's sake. Maybe I didn't get the subtlety of it.
Edit : Okay, so now I've finished it, and as you can see, my rating didn't change a bit. Because even if I must admit that the twist is kind of genius, it remains that I hated the characters and didn't like the writing. Sorry.
Oh, well.
March 1, 2015
I don’t think an hour has passed since I put this book down. One word is on repeat, screaming in my head. Fuck. Over and over again. I can’t even try to string together sentences that could explain a bit of what this story is about. This is in fact one of those books where going in blind is a must. I can only hope that as this book spreads around the book community some jackhole doesn’t decide to ruin it by revealing too much.
I have been a fan of Ms. Cole for some time. I’ve enjoyed her contempish/NAish romance but I feel like this world is where she belongs. There was something about this story coupled with her writing that felt right.
The relationship between Calla and Finn was complex, nearly as complex as her growing relationship with Dare. The stranger that she encounters at the hospital that catches her eye. But beyond Dare and Finn’s place in this story and the story swirled around an eighteen year old girl suffering from grief and guilt that was debilitating. A story that is cloaked in secrets that can’t be exposed by coaxing them out, but by letting the threads slowly unravel until nothing is left.
There were so many comments floating around about how amazing this book was and then the mummers of the ending and the dreaded cliffhanger and part of me was going to have the strength to refuse to read this until we at least had book two released. That resolve, well that went to shit after just forty-eight hours. Over five hundred books were shouting pick me! pick me! as I scrolled through my Kindle. Books that had closure and no fear of left feeling exposed and raw when finishing them. But I couldn’t resist this book. I tried. And once I started there was no stopping.
The way this book leaves you is almost obsessive. You want to immediately re-read it looking for clues to things you may not have realized held importance. You’ll stalk down the author in her groups and online to devour the little crumbs she’s willing to throw your way. There is no doubt about how complex this story is. And although there was enough going on in book one to blow your mind, I have a feeling that this was just the tip of the iceberg. And I for one, Cannot wait.
I have been a fan of Ms. Cole for some time. I’ve enjoyed her contempish/NAish romance but I feel like this world is where she belongs. There was something about this story coupled with her writing that felt right.
The relationship between Calla and Finn was complex, nearly as complex as her growing relationship with Dare. The stranger that she encounters at the hospital that catches her eye. But beyond Dare and Finn’s place in this story and the story swirled around an eighteen year old girl suffering from grief and guilt that was debilitating. A story that is cloaked in secrets that can’t be exposed by coaxing them out, but by letting the threads slowly unravel until nothing is left.
There were so many comments floating around about how amazing this book was and then the mummers of the ending and the dreaded cliffhanger and part of me was going to have the strength to refuse to read this until we at least had book two released. That resolve, well that went to shit after just forty-eight hours. Over five hundred books were shouting pick me! pick me! as I scrolled through my Kindle. Books that had closure and no fear of left feeling exposed and raw when finishing them. But I couldn’t resist this book. I tried. And once I started there was no stopping.
The way this book leaves you is almost obsessive. You want to immediately re-read it looking for clues to things you may not have realized held importance. You’ll stalk down the author in her groups and online to devour the little crumbs she’s willing to throw your way. There is no doubt about how complex this story is. And although there was enough going on in book one to blow your mind, I have a feeling that this was just the tip of the iceberg. And I for one, Cannot wait.
January 26, 2015
★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★
Calla Price lives with her twin brother and parents in a mortuary, she has lived her whole life surrounded by death but nothing could prepare her for when death takes her mother away from her so cruelly. Nocte is the story of Calla trying to cope with this awful event as well as trying to help her brother escape his demons. Finn suffers from Schizo-affective Disorder and she has always been protective of him and their close bond.
When handsome stranger Dare DuBray rolls into town, with his sexy English accent and his mysteriousness, the fates of Calla and Finn are changed. Dare is hiding something but is also doing a good job of helping Calla feel calm amidst all the confusion.
I would describe this as a psychological romantic suspense, there were so many things I wanted and needed to know. Unfortunately for me, I worked out the main twist early on but that didn't deter me from enjoying this crazy ride. All the little plot twists were interwoven so perfectly, it is one of those books that you probably would want to read twice to make sure you haven't missed anything the first time round.
This is book 1 in a trilogy and it ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you with so many more questions, I am absolutely dying to find out what the answers are. Verum continues the story of Calla and Dare.
Calla Price lives with her twin brother and parents in a mortuary, she has lived her whole life surrounded by death but nothing could prepare her for when death takes her mother away from her so cruelly. Nocte is the story of Calla trying to cope with this awful event as well as trying to help her brother escape his demons. Finn suffers from Schizo-affective Disorder and she has always been protective of him and their close bond.
"He was my brother, my best friend, half of my soul. He was all of those things and more. He was more than anyone else ever knew of ever would know.
Because I was the only one lucky enough to really know him."
When handsome stranger Dare DuBray rolls into town, with his sexy English accent and his mysteriousness, the fates of Calla and Finn are changed. Dare is hiding something but is also doing a good job of helping Calla feel calm amidst all the confusion.
"Everything about him touches me... his voice, his story, his vuneralitlity that he tries so hard to hide it. All of it. I want him. All of him."
I would describe this as a psychological romantic suspense, there were so many things I wanted and needed to know. Unfortunately for me, I worked out the main twist early on but that didn't deter me from enjoying this crazy ride. All the little plot twists were interwoven so perfectly, it is one of those books that you probably would want to read twice to make sure you haven't missed anything the first time round.
This is book 1 in a trilogy and it ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you with so many more questions, I am absolutely dying to find out what the answers are. Verum continues the story of Calla and Dare.
January 31, 2016
2.5 stars rounded down. I have many reasons for this.
How am I even supposed to review this? I want to,
lemme try.
I can't place a genre on this book, because while it has one/some, it's too subtle. There's some romance, some dark themes and some something-else-I-don't-care-about. Book, why you tease me?
I should have stopped after halfway, when instead of fervently tapping my Kindle, I was eating fun-sized milky bars and googling Spongebob gifs. Not that the story wasn't interesting, it was...just...kinda...boring.
I personally found the premise, which was brilliant, to be something that would better suit a film rather than a book. I've seen a film that has this same idea, and it freaked the bejeezus outta me. Cinematography gets ALL the praise in this instance.
The main characters - Calla, Dare and Finn - are ok. Just ok. I didn't feel like I connected with any of them enough to feel emotion for them, which sucked because I really wanted to. I know the whole book is about big secrets covered by bigger lies, so theoretically the characters couldn't be developed deeply without compromising these elements, but I still would have liked more.
The romance between Calla and Dare was just not for me. I thought it was too awkward and slow, and by the end I was ready to dismiss the entire relationship because it was basically all lies . This was probably the only thing that mildly irritated me in the entire book.
The mental illness aspect was fascinating, though not nearly as fascinating as what I would have liked it to be. Seeing things from Finn's POV and his conflicting thoughts wasn't enough. I'd liked to have had longer Finn chapters, perhaps with more detail on his condition.
It's really hard to ignore your own voice. And even though I can push them to the back of my consciousness most of the time, I can never make them go away. The colorful pills I used to take every day couldn't even silence them, not always.
I also figured out the ending before the ending too, and so the big "secret" was pretty anticlimactic for me, and while the final chapters were essentially putting two and two together for the reader, I was sitting here like
I don't really give a hoot about the cliffy end, so I probably won't read the second one unless, you know, curiosity. Which I have little of for this book unfortunately :/
How am I even supposed to review this? I want to,
lemme try.
I can't place a genre on this book, because while it has one/some, it's too subtle. There's some romance, some dark themes and some something-else-I-don't-care-about. Book, why you tease me?
I should have stopped after halfway, when instead of fervently tapping my Kindle, I was eating fun-sized milky bars and googling Spongebob gifs. Not that the story wasn't interesting, it was...just...kinda...boring.
I personally found the premise, which was brilliant, to be something that would better suit a film rather than a book. I've seen a film that has this same idea, and it freaked the bejeezus outta me. Cinematography gets ALL the praise in this instance.
The main characters - Calla, Dare and Finn - are ok. Just ok. I didn't feel like I connected with any of them enough to feel emotion for them, which sucked because I really wanted to. I know the whole book is about big secrets covered by bigger lies, so theoretically the characters couldn't be developed deeply without compromising these elements, but I still would have liked more.
The romance between Calla and Dare was just not for me. I thought it was too awkward and slow, and by the end I was ready to dismiss the entire relationship because it was basically all lies . This was probably the only thing that mildly irritated me in the entire book.
The mental illness aspect was fascinating, though not nearly as fascinating as what I would have liked it to be. Seeing things from Finn's POV and his conflicting thoughts wasn't enough. I'd liked to have had longer Finn chapters, perhaps with more detail on his condition.
It's really hard to ignore your own voice. And even though I can push them to the back of my consciousness most of the time, I can never make them go away. The colorful pills I used to take every day couldn't even silence them, not always.
I also figured out the ending before the ending too, and so the big "secret" was pretty anticlimactic for me, and while the final chapters were essentially putting two and two together for the reader, I was sitting here like
I don't really give a hoot about the cliffy end, so I probably won't read the second one unless, you know, curiosity. Which I have little of for this book unfortunately :/
November 16, 2017
5 Sadistic yet practical STARS
En una semana normal, leo alrededor de 4 a 5 libros. Lo cual es genial. Las ventajas de ser Stay at home mom.
La desventaja, es que de tanto leer, las lecturas se vuelven monótonas, y todas las historias se tornan predecibles. Especialmente cuando se trata de libros juveniles.
Por eso me gusto tanto este libro, porque a pesar que tiene varios defectos, el simple hecho que me haya tomado por sorpresa y que no me esperara nada de lo que sucedió, lo hace merecedor de las tan anheladas 5 Estrellas.
Una historia original, atrapante, llena de intriga y secretos, con un plot twist que me dejo hiperventilando. Y suspenso que me tenía con el corazón en la mano.
Dare el protagonista me enamoro por completo.
Calla, la protagonista me molestaba un poco con la constante mención de sus ovarios, y su insistencia a tener sexo con el prota.
Pero al final le perdone todo, y me rompió el corazón su verdad.
Recomiendo mucho este libro.
Curiosamente, no me engancho lo suficiente para seguir la saga, contradicciones mías.
En una semana normal, leo alrededor de 4 a 5 libros. Lo cual es genial. Las ventajas de ser Stay at home mom.
La desventaja, es que de tanto leer, las lecturas se vuelven monótonas, y todas las historias se tornan predecibles. Especialmente cuando se trata de libros juveniles.
Por eso me gusto tanto este libro, porque a pesar que tiene varios defectos, el simple hecho que me haya tomado por sorpresa y que no me esperara nada de lo que sucedió, lo hace merecedor de las tan anheladas 5 Estrellas.
Una historia original, atrapante, llena de intriga y secretos, con un plot twist que me dejo hiperventilando. Y suspenso que me tenía con el corazón en la mano.
Dare el protagonista me enamoro por completo.
Calla, la protagonista me molestaba un poco con la constante mención de sus ovarios, y su insistencia a tener sexo con el prota.
Pero al final le perdone todo, y me rompió el corazón su verdad.
"Love is stronger than death."
Recomiendo mucho este libro.
Curiosamente, no me engancho lo suficiente para seguir la saga, contradicciones mías.
October 15, 2015
5 OMFG Stars!!!!!!
I’ve been trying since I finished this book on October 8th…… YES 23 days ago to put together some form of a review that is completely spoiler and secret free. Let me tell you with this book that is not an easy task. I just want to pour my heart and soul into this review and warn you about well EVERYTHING……..BUT I cannot.
If you are a fan of Courtney’s then let me tell you something right of the bat. THIS story is NOTHING like she has EVER written before. It is RAW, It is Gritty, It is full of Angst….. and in the end you will be going what the hell happened to the Courtney Cole I know and love? Let me tell you she has stepped up her game in the writing world, and she has done it with such Brilliance!!!!
Nocte is chocked full of suspense. As you turn the pages trying to figure out what is going on, you will think you know what the big secret is….. BUT you will be wrong. Just when you think you might have figured it out Courtney twists things again and you are left wondering what the hell is going on.
Calla is consumed with grief after a tragic accident. Rather than let her grief show she stays strong for her twin brother Finn who is mentally unstable. Calla is Finn’s other half, he trusts no one but her, and she is the only one who understands him…..
Finn hides his own thoughts inside a journal. A journal that no one is suppose to read. His erratic thoughts get written down every day….
“Serva me, servabo te. Save me and I will save you.
Save me.
Save me.
Save me.”
Calla is doing everything she can to protect and help her brother while keeping her own emotions hidden and not letting them come to the surface. Finn is at his breaking point and Calla is trying desperately to help him from going over the cliff into the unknown….
Dare BuBray. Who is this mystery man? Calla meets him and as much as she tries she cannot stay away from him. Something keeps her going back to him. Calla is drawn to the mysteries of Dare. As much as she is afraid of him, he comforts her. He makes her feel protected, safe, scared all at once.
“Dare DuBray. He’s my savior and my anti-Christ. His arms are where I feel safe, where I’m afraid, where I belong, where I’m lost. He will heal me, break me, love me and hate me. He has the power to destroy me.”
Dare has secrets too and we are left desperate to find out what those secrets are.
I will say this. You do not want to pass this one by. You need to lock yourself in a room and read this without missing one single word. The mystery and secrets that you will unravel will leave you wondering what the hell you have read. You will be begging for more. I have no doubt that you will devour this book in one sitting it is UNPUTDOWNABLE!!!!!!
I myself, well I am going to be stalking Courtney and possibly begging her for pieces of the next book until I can finally get my hands on it… Don’t be too disappointed the wait for the next one is a short wait….
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