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Soulfinders #2
Night Study
New York Times bestselling author Maria V. Snyder transports readers back to the realms of Sitia and Ixia in an exciting new Study novel full of magic, danger and intrigue.
Ever since being kidnapped from the Illiais Jungle as a child, Yelena Zaltana's life has been fraught with peril. But the recent loss of her Soulfinding abilities has endangered her more than ever before. As she desperately searches for a way to reclaim her magic, her enemies are closing in, and neither Ixia nor Sitia is safe for her anymore. Especially since the growing discord between the two countries and the possibility of a war threatens everything Yelena holds dear.
Valek is determined to protect Yelena, but he's quickly running out of options. The Commander suspects that his loyalties are divided, and he's been keeping secrets from Valek…secrets that put him, Yelena and all their friends in terrible danger. As they uncover the various layers of the Commander's mysterious plans, they realize it's far more sinister than they could have ever imagined.
Ever since being kidnapped from the Illiais Jungle as a child, Yelena Zaltana's life has been fraught with peril. But the recent loss of her Soulfinding abilities has endangered her more than ever before. As she desperately searches for a way to reclaim her magic, her enemies are closing in, and neither Ixia nor Sitia is safe for her anymore. Especially since the growing discord between the two countries and the possibility of a war threatens everything Yelena holds dear.
Valek is determined to protect Yelena, but he's quickly running out of options. The Commander suspects that his loyalties are divided, and he's been keeping secrets from Valek…secrets that put him, Yelena and all their friends in terrible danger. As they uncover the various layers of the Commander's mysterious plans, they realize it's far more sinister than they could have ever imagined.
444 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2016
419 people are currently reading
18532 people want to read
About the author
Maria V. Snyder
75 books17.4k followersWhen Maria V. Snyder was younger, she aspired to be a storm chaser in the American Midwest so she attended Pennsylvania State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology. Much to her chagrin, forecasting the weather wasn’t in her skill set so she spent a number of years as an environmental meteorologist, which is not exciting...at all. Bored at work and needing a creative outlet, she started writing fantasy and science fiction stories. Over twenty four novels and two short story collections later, Maria’s learned a thing or three about writing. She’s been on the New York Times bestseller list, won a dozen awards, and has earned her Masters of Arts degree in Writing from Seton Hill University, where she is now a faculty member.
Her favorite color is red. She loves dogs, but is allergic, instead she has a big black tom cat named…Kitty (apparently naming cats isn’t in her skill set either). Maria also has a husband and two children who are an inspiration for her writing when they aren't being a distraction. Note: She mentions her cat before her family.
When she's not writing she's either playing pickleball, traveling, or taking pictures. Being a writer, though is a ton of fun. Where else can you take fencing lessons, learn how to ride a horse, study marital arts, learn how to pick a lock, take glass blowing classes and attend Astronomy Camp and call it research? Maria will be the first one to tell you it's not working as a meteorologist.
Readers are welcome to check out her website for book excerpts, free short stories, maps, blog, and her schedule at http://www.MariaVSnyder.com.
Her favorite color is red. She loves dogs, but is allergic, instead she has a big black tom cat named…Kitty (apparently naming cats isn’t in her skill set either). Maria also has a husband and two children who are an inspiration for her writing when they aren't being a distraction. Note: She mentions her cat before her family.
When she's not writing she's either playing pickleball, traveling, or taking pictures. Being a writer, though is a ton of fun. Where else can you take fencing lessons, learn how to ride a horse, study marital arts, learn how to pick a lock, take glass blowing classes and attend Astronomy Camp and call it research? Maria will be the first one to tell you it's not working as a meteorologist.
Readers are welcome to check out her website for book excerpts, free short stories, maps, blog, and her schedule at http://www.MariaVSnyder.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 921 reviews
January 28, 2016
Should I be upset by the warm blood gushing over my hands? By the final painful exhalation from my victim? By the stench of body fluids pooling under his dead body?Do you hear that? That's the sound of my heart singing as I finished this book. OH MY GOD. OH MY GOD. I'M LITERALLY SPEECHLESS WITH GLEE.
Yes—taking a life was never easy, no matter the circumstances.
But did I regret it?
No.
Firstly, a confession. Maria Snyder could have written an entire book about Yelena and Valek doing house chores together and I'd still read it and give it 3 stars. Valek and Yelena are MY FAVORITE BOOK COUPLE EVER IN THE HISTORY OF THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD.
So I may be just a tad biased.
#sorrynotsorry
I happen to think that this series is superior to Poison Study, why? There's so much Valek, y'all! I'm unabashedly in love with him and nothing makes me happier than seeing a chapter from Valek's narrative (except peanut butter and chocolate, eaten from a jar with a glass of milk).
Seriously, this book punched me in the feels so many times. There is, of course, the warm glow of Valek and Yelena's fantastically awesome relationship to which we should all emulate.
“Till death. I do swear, love.” Valek whispered in my ear.I swear to god, if anyone else in any other books had spoken those lines, I'd have burst out laughing for 5 minutes straight. With Yelena and Valek, all I can say is *high-pitched squealing*
“Beyond death. My vow to you,” I said.
Then there's the situation with Valek and the Commander. That's another relationship that's just as deep as his and Yelena's, in a different way. They've had so much history together, they've been through so much together, and the developments within that relationship, that trust, within this book wrenched my guts.
The plot is fairly complex, but I, who hate unnecessary complexity, didn't have a problem with it. Needless to say, if you haven't read the previous books in the series, you won't understand a damn thing. Which makes it even more important that you start because THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST SERIES EVER. And Khanh never lies :)
August 8, 2016
To quote Janco,I feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
I'm still into Maria V. Snyder's impeccable writing.Or more precisely,I love her more than coffee.Chocolate-flavored coffee.I will never get tired of reading about Yelena and Valek's adventures and struggles to make both Sitia and Ixia a safe place,I'll never get tired of Janco's sassiness and banters with,well,everyone, and Ari's protective side and Leif's food-lust,because these people are my family,a loud,crazy and reckless family that gives me all the feels!And Night Study is one of the best fantasy books I've ever read!
Yup,that summarizes pretty much what happens in this book.The war between Sitia and Ixia seems inevitable,and despite our dream team's efforts the bad guys are always one step ahead.The Commander doesn't trust Valek anymore,Owen Moon grows dangerous plants that can neutralize an entire army and a Cartel that targets magicians spreads chaos and fear in Sitia,while Yelena without her powers is extremely vulnerable but still stubborn as a mule and keeps endangering herself for the people she cares about.Ambushes,incarceration and deception are our heroes' constant companions,and eventually they face the horrible realization that perhaps this time they cannot win.
Son of a snow cat,I bit my nails until they bled!I was constantly worried and stressed and all I could hear was my frantic heartbeat because the story took so many unexpected turns and everyone got too close to death at least once that my delicate stomach could barely handle it!Every chapter ended in a cliffhanger and I desperately wanted to find out what happened,but then the next chapter would come and bite me in the ass with a shocking event that made my head explode and in the end I didn't know whose narrative I wanted to read the most!
Fine,fine,of course Valek's was my favorite!This time we witnessed a more vulnerable Valek,who was hurt by the way the Commander treated him but saw with absolute clarity that his priority was one,his heart-mate (Gosh I love this word!),and for her he would defy every order and overcome every obstacle!I must admit that at first I couldn't see the reason why Maria narrated in such detail his hunt of the Storm Thieves because I found it irrelevant,but as the story unfolded and Valek finally faced his demons and defeated them,my heart sang a happy rhyme and I was so proud of him!He's still an assassin,he's still calculative and ruthless,but his armor has finally cracked.
So.many.feels!!My otp is strong,stronger than ever,and thank God they had many scenes together in Night Study that brought me tears of joy and love!!
Romance,friendship,humor,adventure and magic are Maria V. Snyder's ingredients that never fail to deliver a marvelous and memorable story!And now I regret my decision to read Night Study before the final book is out,because the suffering is just beginning.I'm going to curl into a ball and cry.
I'm still into Maria V. Snyder's impeccable writing.Or more precisely,I love her more than coffee.Chocolate-flavored coffee.I will never get tired of reading about Yelena and Valek's adventures and struggles to make both Sitia and Ixia a safe place,I'll never get tired of Janco's sassiness and banters with,well,everyone, and Ari's protective side and Leif's food-lust,because these people are my family,a loud,crazy and reckless family that gives me all the feels!And Night Study is one of the best fantasy books I've ever read!
“Holy snow cats,”Janco said.“We're screwed.”
Yup,that summarizes pretty much what happens in this book.The war between Sitia and Ixia seems inevitable,and despite our dream team's efforts the bad guys are always one step ahead.The Commander doesn't trust Valek anymore,Owen Moon grows dangerous plants that can neutralize an entire army and a Cartel that targets magicians spreads chaos and fear in Sitia,while Yelena without her powers is extremely vulnerable but still stubborn as a mule and keeps endangering herself for the people she cares about.Ambushes,incarceration and deception are our heroes' constant companions,and eventually they face the horrible realization that perhaps this time they cannot win.
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others.”
Son of a snow cat,I bit my nails until they bled!I was constantly worried and stressed and all I could hear was my frantic heartbeat because the story took so many unexpected turns and everyone got too close to death at least once that my delicate stomach could barely handle it!Every chapter ended in a cliffhanger and I desperately wanted to find out what happened,but then the next chapter would come and bite me in the ass with a shocking event that made my head explode and in the end I didn't know whose narrative I wanted to read the most!
“Valek no longed knew what to think,to believe,to do.He'd always known what action to take,but not now.Too much had happened.One thing stayed consistent.Yelena.He needed to protect her,to send her to safety,to ensure that she understood that his loyalties were no longer divided.”
Fine,fine,of course Valek's was my favorite!This time we witnessed a more vulnerable Valek,who was hurt by the way the Commander treated him but saw with absolute clarity that his priority was one,his heart-mate (Gosh I love this word!),and for her he would defy every order and overcome every obstacle!I must admit that at first I couldn't see the reason why Maria narrated in such detail his hunt of the Storm Thieves because I found it irrelevant,but as the story unfolded and Valek finally faced his demons and defeated them,my heart sang a happy rhyme and I was so proud of him!He's still an assassin,he's still calculative and ruthless,but his armor has finally cracked.
“Till death. I do swear, love." Valek whispered in my ear.
"Beyond death. My vow to you," I said.
He drew back to meet my gaze. "So we shall be. Forever united."
"We shall be," I agreed.”
So.many.feels!!My otp is strong,stronger than ever,and thank God they had many scenes together in Night Study that brought me tears of joy and love!!
Romance,friendship,humor,adventure and magic are Maria V. Snyder's ingredients that never fail to deliver a marvelous and memorable story!And now I regret my decision to read Night Study before the final book is out,because the suffering is just beginning.I'm going to curl into a ball and cry.
December 11, 2020
No surprise I marked this as 5 stars, I am the author after all ;) I re-read my own book because I'm hoping to write some short stories about Valek, Yelena, Ari, Janco, and the rest of the herd. This book really stood out to me as Valek's history and family are the main focus of the story. I'm especially proud of chapter 26.
I think this paragraph can resonate with everyone who lost someone during this pandemic: "Dark shadows of grief haunted his [Valek's father] expression. More than any one person should be asked to bear. But that was the problem with grief. No one ever asked for it. It arrived with its bags already packed for an extended stay. It settled into your best guest room and demanded to be waited on all day long, and when it finally shuffled out the door, it left behind permanent scratches on your furniture."
Hope everyone is staying safe!
I think this paragraph can resonate with everyone who lost someone during this pandemic: "Dark shadows of grief haunted his [Valek's father] expression. More than any one person should be asked to bear. But that was the problem with grief. No one ever asked for it. It arrived with its bags already packed for an extended stay. It settled into your best guest room and demanded to be waited on all day long, and when it finally shuffled out the door, it left behind permanent scratches on your furniture."
Hope everyone is staying safe!
July 24, 2024
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others."
"The family business," Yelena said, smiling.
SQUEALLLLLLL!!! Or as Janco says, “HOLY SNOW CATS!” All hail, the book of all books!!! How is it possible that there’s only one book left in this amazing series?!!! How on Earth shall I possibly survive?!!! Should I just never read the final book, Dawn Study, so that this series will never end for me? The prospect of this series ending makes me want to just break down in tears! :(
I honestly think that this instalment is neck-and-neck with Poison Study as my favourite Ixian Chronicles book!!! This blows Magic Study, Fire Study, AND Shadow Study out of the water!!! And do you want to know the best part? Every single problem that I’ve ever had with Snyder’s books were completely resolved!!! More Ari scenes in the book? Check. More serious scenes with Janco? Check. More romantic scenes with Valek and Yelena? Check. Faster plotline? Check. More Valek backstory? Check. More scenes with the entire ensemble cast together? Check.
Now, if only we could do something about that
But anyway, I digress…You go, Maria V. Snyder! You absolutely nailed this novel!!! I’m so so so so so happy!!!
We’re so far into this series that I honestly don’t know how to say anything about this book without spoiling EVERYTHING…but I’ll do my best! ;)
As always, poor Yelena’s life is fraught with danger, and now she’s in an even more vulnerable position because of both her loss of magical abilities AND . As Ixian-Sitian relations are now tenuous at best, with both countries on the brink of war, the Commander has turned on Valek, making him feel caught between his loyalty to the Commander and his devotion to Yelena . The plot of this book was INTENSE and I was perpetually A) on the edge of my seat out of sheer nervousness for my babies OR B) jumping giddily up and down out of pure happiness! This was SUCH A PHENOMENAL BOOK!!!
“Till death. I do swear, love." Valek whispered in my ear.
"Beyond death. My vow to you," I said.
He drew back to meet my gaze. "So we shall be. Forever united."
"We shall be," I agreed.
I’m not even ashamed to admit that I’m wholeheartedly in love with Valek. Needless to say, he’s my newest book-boyfriend and I’d die for him without a second thought. I love him SO SO MUCH. Yet somehow, I’m also not at all jealous of Yelena because they are absolutely PERFECT together. I love that he wanted to lock her up in a tower in order to protect her! HAHA! Oh, Valek, how I love you. <3 I was internally squealing during every single bloody scene with the two of them together!!! I need to find myself a Valek of my own!!!
As I’ve mentioned time and time again, this is one of the BEST series EVER. And if you haven’t given it a go yet…I honestly don’t know what you’re doing with your life! *shakes head in confusion*:P
…OK, but seriously…PLEASE, READ IT!!! Would I ever steer you guys wrong? ;)
March 16, 2016
Eeeeh.
I'm not sure, really. Was my expectation too much or the book is actually not as good as the first one?
I'm a fan of the Study series because Maria V. Snyder is an awesome author, Valek is goals, Yelena is a badass and the story is getting better and better. Shadow Study ended with a cliffhanger and we all know the struggle of waiting 1 year just to read the sequel. When I got the book, I was excited to know the answers to the questions that Shadow Study gave us.
It did not disappoint in that area.
Maria V. Snyder gave us the answers, new characters and more moments between Yelena and Valek.
You might think that warrants a 5 star rating but I have to say that as much as the story is awesome, it didn't really make me feel giddy like I did with the previous Study books. It feels like the pace in this one is slower and this is what I think:
Night Study might just be the introduction to the biggest change that might happen in the series.
You know that feeling that before the war happens, someone needs to tell the background story first to make the readers appreciate and know the whole story better?
That's what the 2nd book feels like.
So yeah, this might have a 3 star rating, but it doesn't mean it's bad and pointless. I'm still going to read the next book because of VALEK, YELENA and JANCO.
March 2, 2017
Holy snow cats! I stole Janco's line, but it is really fitting for this book.
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others."
Night Study, the second book from Soulfinders sequel series is just as amazing as the previous one, Shadow Study.
First of all, if you want to experience this awesomeness firsthand, you do need to read the Study trilogy first, otherwise you wouldn't understand a thing. But don't worry the original trilogy is just as good!
Things are slowly boiling to the surface in this book. Valek's relationship with the Commander is on the edge. Yelena's and Valek's love is stronger than ever.
War is brewing between Sitia and Ixia and our favourite group of defenders is as always, trying to stop it all. But this time, the enemy is stronger and our group is greatly outnumbered.
“Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational.”
I constantly sat on the edge of my seat, worried about the characters. This books takes some interesting twists and turns, especially with a certain characters. I absolutely cannot wait to know more about it and the mysterious Onora (I'm kind of hoping she gets her own pov in the last book). There was also a lot of heartwarming moments between Yelena and Valek. (Yes, they are finally together more than in Shadow Study:) And let's not even start about their relationship, because I love them so damn much! This is definitely the kind of equal relationship I aspire toward in the distant future.
Night Study has complex storyline, lots of adventure, tension and laugh out loud moments which mostly include Janco. And maybe, you'll even shed some tear or two.
“Dark shadows of grief haunted his expression. More than any person should be asked to bear. But that was the problem with grief. No one ever asked for it. It arrived with its bags packed for an extended stay. It settled into your best guest room and demanded to be waited on all day long, and when it finally shuffled out of the door, it left behind permanent scratches on your furniture.”
I feel like after all what happened in this book, we readers need to be prepared for the wild ride that would be Dawn Study. I'm so so excited, the last book can't come soon enough.
“One thing Valek did know how to do - sew. The other assassins hadn't called him the King Knitter for nothing.”
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others."
Night Study, the second book from Soulfinders sequel series is just as amazing as the previous one, Shadow Study.
First of all, if you want to experience this awesomeness firsthand, you do need to read the Study trilogy first, otherwise you wouldn't understand a thing. But don't worry the original trilogy is just as good!
Things are slowly boiling to the surface in this book. Valek's relationship with the Commander is on the edge. Yelena's and Valek's love is stronger than ever.
War is brewing between Sitia and Ixia and our favourite group of defenders is as always, trying to stop it all. But this time, the enemy is stronger and our group is greatly outnumbered.
“Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational.”
I constantly sat on the edge of my seat, worried about the characters. This books takes some interesting twists and turns, especially with a certain characters. I absolutely cannot wait to know more about it and the mysterious Onora (I'm kind of hoping she gets her own pov in the last book). There was also a lot of heartwarming moments between Yelena and Valek. (Yes, they are finally together more than in Shadow Study:) And let's not even start about their relationship, because I love them so damn much! This is definitely the kind of equal relationship I aspire toward in the distant future.
Night Study has complex storyline, lots of adventure, tension and laugh out loud moments which mostly include Janco. And maybe, you'll even shed some tear or two.
“Dark shadows of grief haunted his expression. More than any person should be asked to bear. But that was the problem with grief. No one ever asked for it. It arrived with its bags packed for an extended stay. It settled into your best guest room and demanded to be waited on all day long, and when it finally shuffled out of the door, it left behind permanent scratches on your furniture.”
I feel like after all what happened in this book, we readers need to be prepared for the wild ride that would be Dawn Study. I'm so so excited, the last book can't come soon enough.
“One thing Valek did know how to do - sew. The other assassins hadn't called him the King Knitter for nothing.”
March 9, 2017
"Till death. I do swear, love."
"Beyond death. My bow to you"
"So we shall be. Forever united."
"We shall be."
Reading this series is always amazing. I love these characters so much and they hold such a special place in my heart now. Their story is always interesting and you never know what's going to happen next. I'm honestly dreading reading Dawn Study because then it will be the end of Valek and Yelena's story - even though they are still in the Glass series. I honestly adore these books and I would highly recommend picking up these books. I'm so glad that I continued on with these books as they are probably even better than the first 3 Study books. The multiple POVs will always be something I love seeing in these books and the plot has definitely developed a lot more for more twists and turns to come. These books are amazing, I love them.
Sorry for the short review, but there's not much to say without spoiling and I 10/10 cannot be bothered about talking about spoilers right now!
"Beyond death. My bow to you"
"So we shall be. Forever united."
"We shall be."
Reading this series is always amazing. I love these characters so much and they hold such a special place in my heart now. Their story is always interesting and you never know what's going to happen next. I'm honestly dreading reading Dawn Study because then it will be the end of Valek and Yelena's story - even though they are still in the Glass series. I honestly adore these books and I would highly recommend picking up these books. I'm so glad that I continued on with these books as they are probably even better than the first 3 Study books. The multiple POVs will always be something I love seeing in these books and the plot has definitely developed a lot more for more twists and turns to come. These books are amazing, I love them.
Sorry for the short review, but there's not much to say without spoiling and I 10/10 cannot be bothered about talking about spoilers right now!
Want to read
July 14, 2022
August 25, 2017
Full review to come..
I just have to go start the next book.. Cause, you know..
I need it now, like, right this damn second.
Needless to say.. I LOVED IT
Remember when I said I was hesitant to pick up this “continuation trilogy” because I was afraid it wouldn’t be as good as the original one?
Well, I’m more than happy to report that I love this even more than the original one.
Oh, Why, you ask? Mutherfuckin Valek !! So much Valek, Y'all!
As for the commander, and at the risk of repeating myself, I say again, What's up, dude!
#SorryNotSorry
I just have to go start the next book.. Cause, you know..
I need it now, like, right this damn second.
Needless to say.. I LOVED IT
Remember when I said I was hesitant to pick up this “continuation trilogy” because I was afraid it wouldn’t be as good as the original one?
Well, I’m more than happy to report that I love this even more than the original one.
Oh, Why, you ask? Mutherfuckin Valek !! So much Valek, Y'all!
As for the commander, and at the risk of repeating myself, I say again, What's up, dude!
February 16, 2016
So this is one of those books where, even though it seems like it's only two books into a series, there were two series' before this series that has built this world up to this point, and if you haven't read them, you won't know what the hell I'm talking about. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if you already don't know what the hell I'm talking about after reading my first sentence. I'm articulate like that.
So, we have a magic world with two kingdoms - magic kingdom (not Disney), and we-hate-magic-kingdom. There is a complicated, very fragile peace between them. Neither trusts the other. Like with us and Canada. I mean, come on, there is no way those people are really that nice. It must be a trick of some sort. I'm watching you, Canadians!
Valek & Yelena, the best couple in bookdom, are trying to stop a war between the countries. And, it's really really complicated.
That's about it.
Wow, it wasn't so hard to review this book after all!
This reminds me of a funny story. While homeschooling my sons, I would give them "story starters" that would have the beginning of a story that they had to finish writing. They would usually write something along the lines of "then everyone died. The end." I don't know why I'm thinking of that now. I also don't know where they got that from. Hmmmm....
So, we have a magic world with two kingdoms - magic kingdom (not Disney), and we-hate-magic-kingdom. There is a complicated, very fragile peace between them. Neither trusts the other. Like with us and Canada. I mean, come on, there is no way those people are really that nice. It must be a trick of some sort. I'm watching you, Canadians!
Valek & Yelena, the best couple in bookdom, are trying to stop a war between the countries. And, it's really really complicated.
That's about it.
Wow, it wasn't so hard to review this book after all!
This reminds me of a funny story. While homeschooling my sons, I would give them "story starters" that would have the beginning of a story that they had to finish writing. They would usually write something along the lines of "then everyone died. The end." I don't know why I'm thinking of that now. I also don't know where they got that from. Hmmmm....
April 28, 2023
"Should I be upset by the warm blood gushing over my hands? By the final painful exhalation from my victim? By the stench of body fluids pooling under his dead body?
Yes—taking a life was never easy, no matter the circumstances.
But did I regret it?
No."
Yes—taking a life was never easy, no matter the circumstances.
But did I regret it?
No."
February 26, 2016
***I received the ARC eBook from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
I have so much love for this series and this latest installment is perfection! I'm still working my head around everything that happened and will remain firmly in denial that I have to wait a whole damn year for more from my favourite unconventional family: Yelena (who remains badass), Valek (my husband, sorry Yelena), Lief (who I no longer resent though he did make me very hungry with all the descriptions of food) Ari & Janco (a power non-couple if I've ever seen one) and everyone else whose lives I have loved being a part of.
Putting into words my thoughts and the extent of my feelings has been impossible, so bring on the gifs!
As the day of ARC release approached (and once it was in my hands)
Talking to the characters before getting started
Throughout
To everyone who dared threaten my favourites
And it will be you!
Yelena
Valek <3
Me
Posted on Enchanted by YA
I have so much love for this series and this latest installment is perfection! I'm still working my head around everything that happened and will remain firmly in denial that I have to wait a whole damn year for more from my favourite unconventional family: Yelena (who remains badass), Valek (my husband, sorry Yelena), Lief (who I no longer resent though he did make me very hungry with all the descriptions of food) Ari & Janco (a power non-couple if I've ever seen one) and everyone else whose lives I have loved being a part of.
Putting into words my thoughts and the extent of my feelings has been impossible, so bring on the gifs!
As the day of ARC release approached (and once it was in my hands)
Talking to the characters before getting started
Throughout
To everyone who dared threaten my favourites
And it will be you!
Yelena
Valek <3
Me
Posted on Enchanted by YA
March 17, 2017
Well... damnit. I still don't know what to write for my review yet... but onto the last book... I don't think I'll survive after reading it.
Well... I finished it... And holy snowcats!!! I can't even function enough to even write a review right now.
Valek being like a teenager!
The love and just feeeeeeelllllsss!
December 23, 2016
Perfection! That is all! I know I probably sound like a broken record when it comes to Maria and her books. But I just can't say enough good things! You would think there would be one meh book out of the 5 Study books but there isn't! They are all truly amazing and Night Study was no different! I can't even begin to talk about all the awesomeness that happens in this book because it would be way too spoilery! I loved that we got POV's from Yelena and Valek and Janco again (yay!) but we also got a new POV which was Leif I really loved reading his side of the story although it made me hungry lol
The story is so intense and so is the romance and magic!!! I am dying to get my hands on Dawn Study!
Valek is just *swoons* Lets just say Valek has ruined all men for me. Nobody could even come close to him.
The story is so intense and so is the romance and magic!!! I am dying to get my hands on Dawn Study!
Valek is just *swoons* Lets just say Valek has ruined all men for me. Nobody could even come close to him.
January 5, 2022
Seriously??? It took me forever to get through this book, which is just not like me.
I can't tell you just how unhappy this book made me. I am getting tired of never finishing all of the plot points. I can understand Ms. Snyder wants us to keep reading to see what happens with Owen and the Commander. But this book took the cake.
For instance, we start out hunting down a particular plant growing in 'glass houses'-we are all hysterical about it, and we really need to find it and figure out what it can do, but we never come back to this issue.
I am starting to appreciate the multi-person narrative, but I can't say that I love it. Although, it does allow us to be in three or four places at once, which brings me to another problem I'm having. I really hate the author's idea of separating Yalena from Valek to go on different 'missions' in these last few books.
This series is really starting to come off like two of my *former* favorite authors -J.R. Ward, whose books had been excellent until she decided to write a series of novellas under the guise of an entire book. The same with L.K. Hamilton -she decided to just keep adding people and power's to the protagonists and to never really give a totally reasonable explanation for doing so. So again, her books ended up reading like a series of short stories than an entire novel.
I understand why the author is doing what she is doing; she wants us to buy the next book because we just have to know what happens to Valek, Yalena, the Baby, Onora, The Commandeer, et al...yes, the list is a long one.
YOU ARE BEING WARNED!!!!
SPOILER--------------SPOILER------------------ SPOILER------------SPOILER
We have to keep reading because, of course, Owen is still alive, the Commander is still nutso, and Valek is going to have to learn to use his newly found (I use that term loosely) magic, and we have to see if it is the baby that is making Yelena's magic disappear (unlikely right?)
I have to admit that I do want to find out what is going to happen next, I will read the next book (which I hope is the last one on this particular journey), but I am not happy with the voyage getting to the end of the series.
*ARC Supplied By Publisher
I can't tell you just how unhappy this book made me. I am getting tired of never finishing all of the plot points. I can understand Ms. Snyder wants us to keep reading to see what happens with Owen and the Commander. But this book took the cake.
For instance, we start out hunting down a particular plant growing in 'glass houses'-we are all hysterical about it, and we really need to find it and figure out what it can do, but we never come back to this issue.
I am starting to appreciate the multi-person narrative, but I can't say that I love it. Although, it does allow us to be in three or four places at once, which brings me to another problem I'm having. I really hate the author's idea of separating Yalena from Valek to go on different 'missions' in these last few books.
This series is really starting to come off like two of my *former* favorite authors -J.R. Ward, whose books had been excellent until she decided to write a series of novellas under the guise of an entire book. The same with L.K. Hamilton -she decided to just keep adding people and power's to the protagonists and to never really give a totally reasonable explanation for doing so. So again, her books ended up reading like a series of short stories than an entire novel.
I understand why the author is doing what she is doing; she wants us to buy the next book because we just have to know what happens to Valek, Yalena, the Baby, Onora, The Commandeer, et al...yes, the list is a long one.
YOU ARE BEING WARNED!!!!
SPOILER--------------SPOILER------------------ SPOILER------------SPOILER
We have to keep reading because, of course, Owen is still alive, the Commander is still nutso, and Valek is going to have to learn to use his newly found (I use that term loosely) magic, and we have to see if it is the baby that is making Yelena's magic disappear (unlikely right?)
I have to admit that I do want to find out what is going to happen next, I will read the next book (which I hope is the last one on this particular journey), but I am not happy with the voyage getting to the end of the series.
*ARC Supplied By Publisher
February 19, 2016
Arghhhhh!!! And noww???? How many months I have to wait to find out what's going to happened next!!!!????!!!!
This series is just plain fantastic!!!
You start reading and think that things are going one way, but at the end you realize that they've gone all the opposite! LOL
Many, many things are happening and many, many answers are given, but at the same time many new questions have arrised!
We are left, at the end, with a huge cliffhanger!!!!
This series is just plain fantastic!!!
You start reading and think that things are going one way, but at the end you realize that they've gone all the opposite! LOL
Many, many things are happening and many, many answers are given, but at the same time many new questions have arrised!
We are left, at the end, with a huge cliffhanger!!!!
February 6, 2017
I really loved the second half! I feel like finally this series hit the same gold like the original trilogy did - it took a while, but it happened! OHMYGOSH I am so pumped for the ending to this series!
March 5, 2016
03.03.2016 Just finished reading this awesome book and I can honestly say that I spent most of the book like this:
My full review can be found HERE.
My thoughts or reactions prior to reading it:
16.03.2015 Just finished reading Shadow Study and now I'm like this:
Or like this when it's not the case of two lovers but this book and I...
16.02.2016 My book is on the way and is expected to arrive on my birthday!!! Since it's a Sunday, I hope to get my grabby hands on it a few days earlier. :)
My full review can be found HERE.
My thoughts or reactions prior to reading it:
16.03.2015 Just finished reading Shadow Study and now I'm like this:
Or like this when it's not the case of two lovers but this book and I...
16.02.2016 My book is on the way and is expected to arrive on my birthday!!! Since it's a Sunday, I hope to get my grabby hands on it a few days earlier. :)
January 29, 2016
I absolutely adore this series and specially Valek and Yelana. It's brilliantly written to hold your interest from start to finish. I loved it.
I'm going to dive into the glass and storm or whatever the other branches are. It's going to be a long wait for the next installment.
I'm going to dive into the glass and storm or whatever the other branches are. It's going to be a long wait for the next installment.
October 25, 2021
Loved reading this book again, it's such a great read, and has such a big impact on the world!
*First Read November 22nd 2015*
Oh, my goodness, this series just keeps getting better! So enjoyable, the last book had Valek's past, and this has his present that'll effect his future! So fantastic! Can't wait for Dawn Study!
*First Read November 22nd 2015*
Oh, my goodness, this series just keeps getting better! So enjoyable, the last book had Valek's past, and this has his present that'll effect his future! So fantastic! Can't wait for Dawn Study!
February 9, 2021
“Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational.”
People say that Leigh Bardugo's banter is worth the read. I'd put a pretty penny behind Maria V. Snyder though.
Night Study begins right where Shadow Study ended. We're thrust into the action without remorse. And it's brilliant. There are new characters that are introduced and a more complicated story that's unveiled. Slowly it comes to resliation that there's a bigger web to the single thread that we were intitally exposed to.
“Come on, Valek. It’s us,” Ari said. “We won’t let you do it all on your own.”
They knew him too well. “I can’t ask—”
“You’re not. We’re volunteering.”
“Yeah,” Janco said. “We’ll play the good little soldiers. No one will suspect a thing.”
“You’ve never been the good little soldier,” Ari said. “If you start now, everyone will know something’s up.”
There's just something about the way Snyder writes her characters. Within a few pages, you understand the personality of a freshly introduced character. At no point does anyone you're reading about feel substanceless. Everyone is brimming with intention and morals, a sense of right and wrong with an enormous grey zone cascading down the middle of their actions. No one in this book is inherently bad, just as no one is exclusively good. Snyder moulds her characters around their imperfections and their talents, two traits that work brilliantly when written well.
For instance, when reintroduced to Fisk, a character who came up earlier in the series, I realised I'd forgotten a lot about him. Snyder exquisitely reminded me of him in a few short pages and suddenly it felt as though I'd never forgotten his character in the first place. I guess you'd know what I'm going through if you read it yourself ;)
I was most impressed by Valek's development. He's changed incredibly from the first book, Poison Study. His ambitions and goals in this book are targetted directly. Especially now that he has Yelena to look after and a greater desire to safely settle down with her. Reading about his conflicting loyalties to his Commander and his Heartmate always kept me on edge. I didn't know if I wanted him to exclusively support one or the other. And after reading four books, I'd come to assume he would always stay with the Commander. This book really challenged my thought process too.
“One thing Valek did know how to do - sew. The other assassins hadn't called him the King Knitter for nothing.”
And as mentioned earlier, I live for Snyder's banter. Ari and Janco in particular :D
A side note; the story gets complex. The Soulfinders (edit: I realised much later that I wrote Souldingers instead of Soulfinders. Sue me please) trilogy aren't books you can get into without reading the Poison Study trilogy first. There are plotlines that interlink within the books, so without understanding earlier stories, you won't experience the full pleasure of this one. I guess that could be considered a downside, but what bookworm gets upset at having several books to feast on? Go on a binge read my love.
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others."
"The family business," Yelena said, smiling.”
Yelena is the ultimate mother-figure. If Yelena and Valek where parents, Ari, Janco, Onora, Maren, Leif and Reema would be their meddling little minions.
People say that Leigh Bardugo's banter is worth the read. I'd put a pretty penny behind Maria V. Snyder though.
Night Study begins right where Shadow Study ended. We're thrust into the action without remorse. And it's brilliant. There are new characters that are introduced and a more complicated story that's unveiled. Slowly it comes to resliation that there's a bigger web to the single thread that we were intitally exposed to.
“Come on, Valek. It’s us,” Ari said. “We won’t let you do it all on your own.”
They knew him too well. “I can’t ask—”
“You’re not. We’re volunteering.”
“Yeah,” Janco said. “We’ll play the good little soldiers. No one will suspect a thing.”
“You’ve never been the good little soldier,” Ari said. “If you start now, everyone will know something’s up.”
There's just something about the way Snyder writes her characters. Within a few pages, you understand the personality of a freshly introduced character. At no point does anyone you're reading about feel substanceless. Everyone is brimming with intention and morals, a sense of right and wrong with an enormous grey zone cascading down the middle of their actions. No one in this book is inherently bad, just as no one is exclusively good. Snyder moulds her characters around their imperfections and their talents, two traits that work brilliantly when written well.
For instance, when reintroduced to Fisk, a character who came up earlier in the series, I realised I'd forgotten a lot about him. Snyder exquisitely reminded me of him in a few short pages and suddenly it felt as though I'd never forgotten his character in the first place. I guess you'd know what I'm going through if you read it yourself ;)
I was most impressed by Valek's development. He's changed incredibly from the first book, Poison Study. His ambitions and goals in this book are targetted directly. Especially now that he has Yelena to look after and a greater desire to safely settle down with her. Reading about his conflicting loyalties to his Commander and his Heartmate always kept me on edge. I didn't know if I wanted him to exclusively support one or the other. And after reading four books, I'd come to assume he would always stay with the Commander. This book really challenged my thought process too.
“One thing Valek did know how to do - sew. The other assassins hadn't called him the King Knitter for nothing.”
And as mentioned earlier, I live for Snyder's banter. Ari and Janco in particular :D
A side note; the story gets complex. The Soulfinders (edit: I realised much later that I wrote Souldingers instead of Soulfinders. Sue me please) trilogy aren't books you can get into without reading the Poison Study trilogy first. There are plotlines that interlink within the books, so without understanding earlier stories, you won't experience the full pleasure of this one. I guess that could be considered a downside, but what bookworm gets upset at having several books to feast on? Go on a binge read my love.
“Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others."
"The family business," Yelena said, smiling.”
Yelena is the ultimate mother-figure. If Yelena and Valek where parents, Ari, Janco, Onora, Maren, Leif and Reema would be their meddling little minions.
September 5, 2024
✅ Action
✅ Mysteries
✅ Characters
✅ Funny moments / Banter
✅ Romance
✅🆗 Plot
Now that was a very good book! Probably one of my favorites in this series.
There is a lot of action, mysteries and I found that the outcome was less predictable than in the other books. There are more political issues... who to trust? Who will betray who? Who is alive and who is dead? Somehow, the bad guys have a way to always come back in this series... Even when they are supposedly dead.
Also, I really like the new side of Valek that we discovered. He starts to show emotions, concerns, doubts, and even weaknesses. For the first time since the first book, he is not the unbeatable assassin that can kick your ass in 10 seconds top. He is not the unreachable strategist who's always rational. He is a man in love. He struggles between his loyalty to the commander and his love for Yelena. Both sides are fairly important to him and he has a deep relationship with both the commander and Yelena. He has to make hard decisions while trying to maintain these relationships. He doubts himself, he makes mistakes and even gets a little beaten up. It makes him more human, more likable.
Yelena was always a strong-minded character, but since she doesn't have her magic anymore, she doubts herself and is way more vulnerable. Still, she shows strength and courage, and that even more impressive considering her situation. I like her even more now. She manages to always get back up and she continues to go on no matter what.
I was a little disappointed by the fourth book, but this one was really worth it! I can't wait to see how it will all end.
1. Poison Study ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
1.5 Assassin Study ⭐⭐⭐
2. Magic Study ⭐⭐⭐.5
3. Fire Study ⭐⭐⭐
3.5 Power Study ⭐⭐⭐
3.6 Ice Study ⭐⭐⭐
4. Shadow Study ⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Mysteries
✅ Characters
✅ Funny moments / Banter
✅ Romance
✅🆗 Plot
Now that was a very good book! Probably one of my favorites in this series.
There is a lot of action, mysteries and I found that the outcome was less predictable than in the other books. There are more political issues... who to trust? Who will betray who? Who is alive and who is dead? Somehow, the bad guys have a way to always come back in this series... Even when they are supposedly dead.
Also, I really like the new side of Valek that we discovered. He starts to show emotions, concerns, doubts, and even weaknesses. For the first time since the first book, he is not the unbeatable assassin that can kick your ass in 10 seconds top. He is not the unreachable strategist who's always rational. He is a man in love. He struggles between his loyalty to the commander and his love for Yelena. Both sides are fairly important to him and he has a deep relationship with both the commander and Yelena. He has to make hard decisions while trying to maintain these relationships. He doubts himself, he makes mistakes and even gets a little beaten up. It makes him more human, more likable.
Yelena was always a strong-minded character, but since she doesn't have her magic anymore, she doubts herself and is way more vulnerable. Still, she shows strength and courage, and that even more impressive considering her situation. I like her even more now. She manages to always get back up and she continues to go on no matter what.
I was a little disappointed by the fourth book, but this one was really worth it! I can't wait to see how it will all end.
1. Poison Study ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
1.5 Assassin Study ⭐⭐⭐
2. Magic Study ⭐⭐⭐.5
3. Fire Study ⭐⭐⭐
3.5 Power Study ⭐⭐⭐
3.6 Ice Study ⭐⭐⭐
4. Shadow Study ⭐⭐⭐
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May 2, 2019
This review first appeared on Readers in Wonderland
My brain has been in a state of “I don’t know what emotion I’m feeling” for a few days now so this review is going to be hard to write, especially since my thoughts on NIGHT STUDY are… hard to put into words. I don’t have mixed feelings about it, I 100% enjoyed the book. But I’m not screaming from the roof tops about it, you know? I really really like it but there’s just something missing.
SHADOW STUDY was a really intense read, with plot twists everywhere. I was so shocked at so many stages through that novel. NIGHT STUDY just never delivered on that level. It’s what I’d call a development book. Many plot points introduced in SHADOW STUDY are further fleshed out and explored in NIGHT STUDY. Plot Things are starting to happen on a much larger scale than I first expected and I’m kind of excited! There’s also a lot of character development, particularly with Valek, as people begin question their alliances and learn surprising details about themselves, their true abilities, and their pasts.
Despite the slower nature of the plot, Snyder’s writing continued to keep me reading. Her words just flow so easily and her novels are so much fun to read, even as she switches from Yelena’s first person POV to other characters third person POV. She makes everything so easy to picture without getting heavy on descriptions that would otherwise slow it down.
My favourite aspect of NIGHT STUDY is the characters, hands down. They’re just so entertaining and hilarious. I can always count on Janco to make me laugh! There were also some surprising new characters introduced and I can’t wait to see how they fit into and change the dynamic.
NIGHT STUDY has set up an interesting stage for DAWN STUDY, but as it developed all the plot points and characters it didn’t quite grab me like SHADOW STUDY did. I still love the characters and was surprised every now and then, but there was no rush of “I NEED TO KNOW MORE” (which could honestly have just been because I was in a weird mood at the time). I expect DAWN STUDY will pick up the pace again and bring a conclusion packed with action and surprises.
My brain has been in a state of “I don’t know what emotion I’m feeling” for a few days now so this review is going to be hard to write, especially since my thoughts on NIGHT STUDY are… hard to put into words. I don’t have mixed feelings about it, I 100% enjoyed the book. But I’m not screaming from the roof tops about it, you know? I really really like it but there’s just something missing.
SHADOW STUDY was a really intense read, with plot twists everywhere. I was so shocked at so many stages through that novel. NIGHT STUDY just never delivered on that level. It’s what I’d call a development book. Many plot points introduced in SHADOW STUDY are further fleshed out and explored in NIGHT STUDY. Plot Things are starting to happen on a much larger scale than I first expected and I’m kind of excited! There’s also a lot of character development, particularly with Valek, as people begin question their alliances and learn surprising details about themselves, their true abilities, and their pasts.
Despite the slower nature of the plot, Snyder’s writing continued to keep me reading. Her words just flow so easily and her novels are so much fun to read, even as she switches from Yelena’s first person POV to other characters third person POV. She makes everything so easy to picture without getting heavy on descriptions that would otherwise slow it down.
My favourite aspect of NIGHT STUDY is the characters, hands down. They’re just so entertaining and hilarious. I can always count on Janco to make me laugh! There were also some surprising new characters introduced and I can’t wait to see how they fit into and change the dynamic.
NIGHT STUDY has set up an interesting stage for DAWN STUDY, but as it developed all the plot points and characters it didn’t quite grab me like SHADOW STUDY did. I still love the characters and was surprised every now and then, but there was no rush of “I NEED TO KNOW MORE” (which could honestly have just been because I was in a weird mood at the time). I expect DAWN STUDY will pick up the pace again and bring a conclusion packed with action and surprises.
June 3, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin (UK) Limited for giving me this book to review.
Since losing her Soulfinding abilities Yelena has never been more vulnerable and now, nowhere is safe, especially with the growing discord between Ixia and Sitia. Valek is determined to protect Yelena but finds his loyalties conflicted as the Commander is acting usually stern and is keeping things form Valek. As Valek and Yelena try and find out more about what is happening they discover a plan that is far more sinister than they could have imagined.
Night Study is the brilliant 2nd/5th book in this series as it is just as good, and better than some of the Study Novels and does not suffer from middle book syndrome. It has romance a complex story and many twists which I did not see coming. The POV was from Yelena, Valek, Janco and Leif, which I felt helped tell the story and what was happening. Every chapter ended on a cliff-hanger which made it hard to put down and very fast paced.
Yelena is struggling without her magic and with so many unknowns in her life, but like in all of the books I admire her loyalty and inner strength but I do wish in one book she wouldn’t be the target. Valek is struggling with his loyalties and learning more about himself and who he wants to be, and unlike Shadow Study I preferred his POV as we got to see how he handled many changes and surprises in his life.
While Yelena and Valek were together more in this book than most of the others I wish they did not always separate as they work really well together and are such a brilliant couple. I also liked Leif’s chapters and getting to know how his mind worked but, like other reviewers have mentioned, this chapters did make me hungry with all his descriptions of food.
Fans of the Study series will not be disappointed as it is one of Maria’s strongest books to date. I am really looking forward to reading Dawn Study as I can’t wait to see how this series ends (please be nice Maria V Snyder). I would recommend Night Study to fans of Maria V Snyder’s books, especially those set in the Ixia/Sitia universe.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Since losing her Soulfinding abilities Yelena has never been more vulnerable and now, nowhere is safe, especially with the growing discord between Ixia and Sitia. Valek is determined to protect Yelena but finds his loyalties conflicted as the Commander is acting usually stern and is keeping things form Valek. As Valek and Yelena try and find out more about what is happening they discover a plan that is far more sinister than they could have imagined.
Night Study is the brilliant 2nd/5th book in this series as it is just as good, and better than some of the Study Novels and does not suffer from middle book syndrome. It has romance a complex story and many twists which I did not see coming. The POV was from Yelena, Valek, Janco and Leif, which I felt helped tell the story and what was happening. Every chapter ended on a cliff-hanger which made it hard to put down and very fast paced.
Yelena is struggling without her magic and with so many unknowns in her life, but like in all of the books I admire her loyalty and inner strength but I do wish in one book she wouldn’t be the target. Valek is struggling with his loyalties and learning more about himself and who he wants to be, and unlike Shadow Study I preferred his POV as we got to see how he handled many changes and surprises in his life.
While Yelena and Valek were together more in this book than most of the others I wish they did not always separate as they work really well together and are such a brilliant couple. I also liked Leif’s chapters and getting to know how his mind worked but, like other reviewers have mentioned, this chapters did make me hungry with all his descriptions of food.
Fans of the Study series will not be disappointed as it is one of Maria’s strongest books to date. I am really looking forward to reading Dawn Study as I can’t wait to see how this series ends (please be nice Maria V Snyder). I would recommend Night Study to fans of Maria V Snyder’s books, especially those set in the Ixia/Sitia universe.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
February 26, 2016
I'm not very rational when it comes to this series because I just love it so damn much but I think Night Study might just be my new favourite from Maria V. Snyder. Yelena and Valek have been one of my favourite fictional couples ever since I read Poison Study and my love for them both has only grown throughout the series so you're just going to have to forgive me for fangirling a little (or probably a lot!) in this review. I'm going to assume that anyone who is reading this review has read at least as far as Shadow Study so please be aware that there may be spoilers beyond this point for anyone new to the series but just in case you've been hiding under a rock for the last few years and are yet to discover the Chronicles of Ixia you're just going to have to trust me that these books are AMAZING and you NEED to read them! So, if you're not up-to-date step away from the screen now and get reading, I'll wait right here until you're finished.
Are you back? Okay you've had your spoiler warnings so this is where the real discussion starts. Night Study picks up immediately after the ending of Shadow Study and you're already aware of the cliffhanger that ended on so I'm sure you've been desperately waiting for this book just like I was! Yelena has just made a very big discovery and now it's time to break the news to Valek, this is a huge time of change for the couple and things aren't helped by the fact that Yelena is still unable to access her magic. Valek is understandably feeling very protective towards his heart mate but he is torn between his love for her and his duty to the Commander. It's not going to be long before Valek is forced to make some difficult choices, especially since the Commander seems to be hiding so many things from him lately.
I really don't want to say too much about the plot here but there is a LOT going on that is will potentially have a huge impact on lives in both Ixia and Sitia in the future. Yelena and Valek are dealing with enemies both old and new, there are new friendships, strengthening of old ties, surprising allies and betrayals from unexpected corners. Night Study is full of action and romance, it will tug on your heartstrings and shock the hell out of you but leave you with a huge smile on your face. Our favourite characters are facing difficult challenges and danger but they are also learning a lot about themselves and the people they care about. The best news of all is that Yelena and Valek actually get to spend quite a lot of time together in this book, yes they still have separate tasks that they need to perform but they also spend some quality time as a couple and their relationship is stronger and more wonderful than ever.
This series has gone from strength to strength and Night Study is the best instalment yet, I'm absolutely devastated that Yelena and Valek's story is coming to an end but at the same time I can't wait to see how things play out. There are a lot of loose ends but things are finally coming together and I can't wait to get my hands on Dawn Study to see how it all plays out.
Are you back? Okay you've had your spoiler warnings so this is where the real discussion starts. Night Study picks up immediately after the ending of Shadow Study and you're already aware of the cliffhanger that ended on so I'm sure you've been desperately waiting for this book just like I was! Yelena has just made a very big discovery and now it's time to break the news to Valek, this is a huge time of change for the couple and things aren't helped by the fact that Yelena is still unable to access her magic. Valek is understandably feeling very protective towards his heart mate but he is torn between his love for her and his duty to the Commander. It's not going to be long before Valek is forced to make some difficult choices, especially since the Commander seems to be hiding so many things from him lately.
I really don't want to say too much about the plot here but there is a LOT going on that is will potentially have a huge impact on lives in both Ixia and Sitia in the future. Yelena and Valek are dealing with enemies both old and new, there are new friendships, strengthening of old ties, surprising allies and betrayals from unexpected corners. Night Study is full of action and romance, it will tug on your heartstrings and shock the hell out of you but leave you with a huge smile on your face. Our favourite characters are facing difficult challenges and danger but they are also learning a lot about themselves and the people they care about. The best news of all is that Yelena and Valek actually get to spend quite a lot of time together in this book, yes they still have separate tasks that they need to perform but they also spend some quality time as a couple and their relationship is stronger and more wonderful than ever.
This series has gone from strength to strength and Night Study is the best instalment yet, I'm absolutely devastated that Yelena and Valek's story is coming to an end but at the same time I can't wait to see how things play out. There are a lot of loose ends but things are finally coming together and I can't wait to get my hands on Dawn Study to see how it all plays out.
January 11, 2016
Have you ever heard the phrase "power couple"? Because that's exactly what springs to mind when I think about Yelena and Valek. Individually they are both pretty amazing but together they seem unstoppable ! Not since they first appeared in Poison Study have they spent so much time in a book together so it was hugely satisfying to find the author giving her readers a huge chunk of the story with this couple see by side in Ixia. Now I'd be lying if I said they stay united because as usual they have adventures apart but it all adds up to take us on a fabulous journey through a world filled with magic and also unfortunately evil!
If you read the previous book Shadow Study then you will remember it ended on a huge cliffhanger ! Well this begins exactly where that left off with Yelena struggling with the loss of her magic and also that slight ( Ok HUGE !) niggle that's causing all kinds of sleepless nights! Now add in the fact that somethings seem a bit off when it comes to the Commander who is known for his efficient and often brutal methods . So now we begin to see that Valek and Yelena are about to be faced with very hard choices. Valek has been unquestionably loyal to the Commander, his personal assassin no less but with very unsavoury guests at the castle is it time to reassess ? It looks like war is coming between Ixia and Sitia and who is slap bang in the middle of it? Yelena of course as she is the ambassador for Sitia!
What a well thought out instalment . The plot is certainly thickening as old enemies reappear and sometimes you just can't seem to trust those closest to you! I love that the world building is done so subtly with just a sense of a fantasy world with magic , swords and of course romance . Yes at its heart this is a romance but intimate scenes are just that, intimate and kept between the two lovers and you know what? It works beautifully to enhance what turns out to be a rip roaring adventure that's far from over. It was wonderful to catch up with favourite supporting characters and who doesn't love the irrepressible Janco? New characters appear too and your minds will boggle but to say more would ruin the surprise . The author does her usual trick of dual points of view and this time even adds a few scenes from the point of view of Leif but as with the last book it's Valek who surprises the most. Yes he has grown as a character with Yelena beside him and dare I suggest he might occasionally know the meaning of empathy? That's not the biggest change though so prepare to be amazed and desperate for the next book.
I was gifted a copy In exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
If you read the previous book Shadow Study then you will remember it ended on a huge cliffhanger ! Well this begins exactly where that left off with Yelena struggling with the loss of her magic and also that slight ( Ok HUGE !) niggle that's causing all kinds of sleepless nights! Now add in the fact that somethings seem a bit off when it comes to the Commander who is known for his efficient and often brutal methods . So now we begin to see that Valek and Yelena are about to be faced with very hard choices. Valek has been unquestionably loyal to the Commander, his personal assassin no less but with very unsavoury guests at the castle is it time to reassess ? It looks like war is coming between Ixia and Sitia and who is slap bang in the middle of it? Yelena of course as she is the ambassador for Sitia!
What a well thought out instalment . The plot is certainly thickening as old enemies reappear and sometimes you just can't seem to trust those closest to you! I love that the world building is done so subtly with just a sense of a fantasy world with magic , swords and of course romance . Yes at its heart this is a romance but intimate scenes are just that, intimate and kept between the two lovers and you know what? It works beautifully to enhance what turns out to be a rip roaring adventure that's far from over. It was wonderful to catch up with favourite supporting characters and who doesn't love the irrepressible Janco? New characters appear too and your minds will boggle but to say more would ruin the surprise . The author does her usual trick of dual points of view and this time even adds a few scenes from the point of view of Leif but as with the last book it's Valek who surprises the most. Yes he has grown as a character with Yelena beside him and dare I suggest he might occasionally know the meaning of empathy? That's not the biggest change though so prepare to be amazed and desperate for the next book.
I was gifted a copy In exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
December 7, 2015
Night Study picks up exactly where Shadow Study left off, and I have to admit that although I enjoyed the previous book, Night Study, had me captured from beginning to end. There was so much excitement and twists and turns I did not see coming. Every chapter ended on a sort of cliffhanger as something new came to light or something unexpected happened - if the phrase 'just one more chapter' ever came to mind it was when I was reading this book.
In my review of the previous book, Shadow Study, I complained that as much as I thought Valek and Yelena were strong and awesome on their own I would love to see them working together more - like they did in Poison Study, because in the following books they're only together for a short while then re-united towards the end. However, I was super pleased because in this book they started of together and remained so for the first 40% of the book.
Told from Yelena, Valek, and Leif's POV Shadow Study focuses on Yelena and the gang's hunt for Owen Moon & co. In addition to this there is another plot thread that is equally as exciting, but I won't mention it here as it's a spoiler. The action and adventure coupled with the colourful cast of characters with their usual banter and bickering made for a thrilling read - from Leif and Devlen to Yelena, Valek, Janco and Ari - these characters are hard not to love. Not forgetting secondary characters, either like Fisk, who is a really interesting guy. I'm kind of hoping that Snyder writes a book centered around him and his Guild of Helpers in the future as I think it would be really cool.
Valek and Yelena go through a lot in this book - Yelena has to learn to cope without her magic and Valek learns a lot about himself and his past, and you can see the small changes and influence Yelena has had on him. As for Yelena herself she is kick-butt as usual, and I love her selflessness and need to save everyone.
Finally, onto the romance: The level of swoons in this one is of the scales, guys. The number of times I happy sighed through out the book I don't even know, Valek and Yelena are such a wonderful power couple. Although I have to confess and say I wouldn't have minded if the romantic scenes were extended as opposed to fading to black *cough* just sayin'...
Overall, this was a brilliant sequel and I cannot wait to see how Snyder wraps it all up in the final book in the trilogy/series, Dawn Study.
This review also appears on my blog, The Page Turner.
In my review of the previous book, Shadow Study, I complained that as much as I thought Valek and Yelena were strong and awesome on their own I would love to see them working together more - like they did in Poison Study, because in the following books they're only together for a short while then re-united towards the end. However, I was super pleased because in this book they started of together and remained so for the first 40% of the book.
Told from Yelena, Valek, and Leif's POV Shadow Study focuses on Yelena and the gang's hunt for Owen Moon & co. In addition to this there is another plot thread that is equally as exciting, but I won't mention it here as it's a spoiler. The action and adventure coupled with the colourful cast of characters with their usual banter and bickering made for a thrilling read - from Leif and Devlen to Yelena, Valek, Janco and Ari - these characters are hard not to love. Not forgetting secondary characters, either like Fisk, who is a really interesting guy. I'm kind of hoping that Snyder writes a book centered around him and his Guild of Helpers in the future as I think it would be really cool.
Valek and Yelena go through a lot in this book - Yelena has to learn to cope without her magic and Valek learns a lot about himself and his past, and you can see the small changes and influence Yelena has had on him. As for Yelena herself she is kick-butt as usual, and I love her selflessness and need to save everyone.
Finally, onto the romance: The level of swoons in this one is of the scales, guys. The number of times I happy sighed through out the book I don't even know, Valek and Yelena are such a wonderful power couple. Although I have to confess and say I wouldn't have minded if the romantic scenes were extended as opposed to fading to black *cough* just sayin'...
Overall, this was a brilliant sequel and I cannot wait to see how Snyder wraps it all up in the final book in the trilogy/series, Dawn Study.
This review also appears on my blog, The Page Turner.
October 31, 2017
I´ve re-read the whole series before reading the last book and I have to say this one should have been the first in the Soulfinder series, mostly because the first one felt like a prologue. A bit too much happening to be honest.
Wow! Where should I start? Maria V. Snyder does it again! I have no clue how she manages to put a great book one after another. What I like about Soulfinder series is the multiple pov, first of all I like that there are multiple stories to follow and second of all I liked that we get to know other characters from her series. Maria Snyder has an amazing ability to surprise her readers. I´m the type of person that always, and I really mean ALWAYS, manages to figure out the ending way before, not in this case. Of course there are parts that are clear that you can guess almost from the start. However the sheer fact that she can write 8 books about one world and still surprise her readers is pretty spectacular. There is not one negative thing I can say about this book or any other series of hers. If you like her stories about Ixia and Sitia you should definitely check out "Touch of Power" (Healer) series.
Wow! Where should I start? Maria V. Snyder does it again! I have no clue how she manages to put a great book one after another. What I like about Soulfinder series is the multiple pov, first of all I like that there are multiple stories to follow and second of all I liked that we get to know other characters from her series. Maria Snyder has an amazing ability to surprise her readers. I´m the type of person that always, and I really mean ALWAYS, manages to figure out the ending way before, not in this case. Of course there are parts that are clear that you can guess almost from the start. However the sheer fact that she can write 8 books about one world and still surprise her readers is pretty spectacular. There is not one negative thing I can say about this book or any other series of hers. If you like her stories about Ixia and Sitia you should definitely check out "Touch of Power" (Healer) series.
April 18, 2024
*4 WORLDBUILDING STARS*
“Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational.”
Like Janco would say: Holy snow cats!
While it took me a while to get into the story again (it's been a while since I read the previous book but that's on me), I really got into it by the second half, and it definitely ended with a bang!
While I'm disappointed that most of the characters were separated for 80% of the book (I feel like Maria V. Snyder always does this?!), it all tied together nicely in the end and I'm pumped to see what's about to go down in the last book!
I feel like both Yelena and especially Valek went through a tremendous amount of character development during this book and I'm here for it!
“Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational.”
Like Janco would say: Holy snow cats!
While it took me a while to get into the story again (it's been a while since I read the previous book but that's on me), I really got into it by the second half, and it definitely ended with a bang!
While I'm disappointed that most of the characters were separated for 80% of the book (I feel like Maria V. Snyder always does this?!), it all tied together nicely in the end and I'm pumped to see what's about to go down in the last book!
I feel like both Yelena and especially Valek went through a tremendous amount of character development during this book and I'm here for it!
Read
March 12, 2017This book was so intense and so sweet and really had some funny moments while having a lot and I mean a lot of emotion and some good old angst. It was everything I loved about the first trilogy in terms of the plot and storytelling but with this new and improved pacing I love so much.
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