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More Heat Than the Sun #7
Enduring Night
You’d have thought that Ben and Nikolas would have learnt that their romantic holidays inevitably end up as disasters. A short break on the polar ice sees them trapped in a nightmare of murder and deceit. Neither of them, however, foresees the long-term impact that endless winter has on their relationship. They return with a metaphorical darkness that threatens everything they have created together. Desperate and fearing for Nikolas’s life, Ben makes a bargain with a surprising ally. For the first time, Nikolas meets an enemy more powerful than he is. But fortunately, not as sneaky…
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2015
17 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
About the author
John Wiltshire
29 books827 followersJohn Wiltshire is the fictional persona of the author of the More Heat Than The Sun series. After spending twenty-two years in the military perfecting the art
of looking busy whilst secretly writing, John left as a senior officer
when a hastily dug tunnel was ready for use. Now living in New
Zealand (at least until enough money can be raised to leave) John has no plans to return to the army. Unless the world situation gets considerably worse, that is.
of looking busy whilst secretly writing, John left as a senior officer
when a hastily dug tunnel was ready for use. Now living in New
Zealand (at least until enough money can be raised to leave) John has no plans to return to the army. Unless the world situation gets considerably worse, that is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
October 29, 2015
1 star. Review posted October 29, 2015
Dear God, not in God, righteous god, good God, my God, my God, my God, my God, oh, God, on God's Earth, dear God, my, God, oh, God, oh, God, my God, with God, for God's sake, oh, God, surely God, thanked God, God, what God, if God, promised God, not God, God, in God, but God, God, from God, God, what God had, God didn't, God wanted, God wanted, God wanted, asked God, God saved, promised God, promised God, God gave, God's purpose, fighting God, God wanted, God was, God hadn't, God was, God did, God didn't, deny God, God's newest, God was, God loves, expected God, battle God, with God, God was, God wants, closer to God, closer to God, with God, God's presence, God was, promised God, none on God's, God was, God doesn't, give God, more attractive than God, rivaling God, how is God, God, God had, God's plan, related to God, God is, with God, the peace of God, believe in God, not God, like God, pleased God, for God, peace of God, God calling, was God, not mention the god word to me, your god once, my God, good God, oh, God, oh, God, told you not to mention God, do as God wants, underestimated God, God needed, oh God, willingly to God, not God's, God had, oh, God, God's little, God blush, my God, Ben's god once more, even gods have, God wants, if I were God, finger of God, closer to God, wasn't God calling, God made, not God, God's ultimate grace, path God wants you to be on, God's call, good God, God was, jealous god.
Your wish is my command.
121 x God in all His annoying glory.
For God's sake, enough is enough!
I don't have 121 God-like gifs but here is something for your entertainment…
Only three…I feel kinda bad now.
The swan song…
Totally OTT silly plot, interspersed with a few funny lines, deadpan humor, but also a nice dose of boredom (I even skimmed the sex scenes) and God skulking left, right, above and below, and I decided to cut my losses.
Someone advised me to not check out any reviews before starting Enduring Night. That was a HUGE mistake because if I had known what would happen in this installment, I would never have read it. I NEEDED spoilers because saying it was ridiculous doesn't even begin to cover this stupid BS.
I understand that an author can do with his characters whatever he wants. He can even off them (no worries, when I quit at 56% both MCs were alive). However, when I saw the cover of Enduring Night, I never thought that he would go there and turn Ben into someone who spews that kind of idiotic bullshit that I flat-out refused to digest at 55% and 56%:
What.In.The.Actual.Fuck? What's up with this claptrap? I, for one, wanted to bleach my brain after reading this. The first 40% or 45% were, while being kind of OTT silly, rather ok (2.5 to 3 stars), but when Ben started babbling about God, everything deteriorated fast and at 55% the whole bloody thing got shot to Hell. Irrevocably, that is. Meaning, Enduring Night was down to a one-star rating. Seems to me that the author thought it might be a good idea to explore religion, beliefs, and behavior. I just wasn't willing to follow his lead, thank you very much.
Fuck, no. *snort* Are ideas so few and far between these days that authors have to resort to that kind of plot twist? A series means that I have the right to expect some serious character growth over the course of time, but changing Ben into this ludicrous figure is neither believable nor appropriate. It is absurd. Someone asked me if he was brainwashed. You know what? I did not care to find out because it wouldn't have improved matters one bit. I am done. As in really done.
More quotes for your perusal
He'd been given this--his superb body, and he'd never once thanked God for it.
BLAH.
How…convenient. Well, it's not like it was the first time, so I should have gotten used to it by now.
Ben going all biblical and God-fearing came out of left field and wasn't credible at all. I mean, come on! Since when looks (and acts) that guy like he'd be interested in worshipping God? Oopsie Daisy. Maybe he was worshipping one god in particular since the beginning of the series? And that would be Nikolas. Come to think of it, wouldn't that be blasphemous, worshipping Nikolas?
What I liked
"I have had more rational conversations with Radulf."
For those who don't know who Radulf is…that's their dog.
He suddenly added privately in Ben’s ear, “I cannot imagine what we will do to pass a week in perpetual darkness, can you?”
“Squeezy once wrote to an airline and suggested they have shagging-only toilets installed.”
“I’m not currently thinking mouth, as nothing but absolute drivel ever seems to come out of it.”
“That’s not what you said last night.”
“Ack. So this bodysuit. How would you piss? Shit?”
“Oh, God, it’s not a bodysuit then. I’m wired up, and if you ever touch a part other than the one you’ve chosen you get electrocuted. How’s that?”
“Much more credible. Can I please get back to my—?”
“Choose!”
“You just want me to say…words I do not like saying.”
Ben snorted. “I’ll allow you to point.”
Be that as it may, authors do whatever they please and I, the reader, come to my own conclusions because I have the right to decide what I will spend my money on in the future. I'm actually quitting the series entirely. I'm not willing anymore to shell out so much money for something that does no longer really engage me. The bloom is definitely off the rose. #truthhurts That's as certain as the amen.In.The.Church. Though if that church is pure is anyone's guess. Sorry, I couldn't help that little dig.
This whole bloody thing affected me in a way I would never have expected. My sleep was troubled, I woke up pissed, went to work even more pissed and my mood was bloody sour the whole day.
This reminds me...the Cut & Run series has been given artificial respiration also. The same happens now with Nik and Ben. Maybe I need a brainwash in order to be able to forget the last three books. My favorite installment and absolute highlight was book #4 This Other Country. I want to remember Nik and Ben with fondness and not with rage. What happened to this series is very sad.
Movin' on…
***********************************************
Pre-reading Enduring Night:
The last two books didn't wow me. I'll be giving this series another shot and if it won't rock my world, I will have to say goodbye. You know how it goes…the swan song.
Dear God, not in God, righteous god, good God, my God, my God, my God, my God, oh, God, on God's Earth, dear God, my, God, oh, God, oh, God, my God, with God, for God's sake, oh, God, surely God, thanked God, God, what God, if God, promised God, not God, God, in God, but God, God, from God, God, what God had, God didn't, God wanted, God wanted, God wanted, asked God, God saved, promised God, promised God, God gave, God's purpose, fighting God, God wanted, God was, God hadn't, God was, God did, God didn't, deny God, God's newest, God was, God loves, expected God, battle God, with God, God was, God wants, closer to God, closer to God, with God, God's presence, God was, promised God, none on God's, God was, God doesn't, give God, more attractive than God, rivaling God, how is God, God, God had, God's plan, related to God, God is, with God, the peace of God, believe in God, not God, like God, pleased God, for God, peace of God, God calling, was God, not mention the god word to me, your god once, my God, good God, oh, God, oh, God, told you not to mention God, do as God wants, underestimated God, God needed, oh God, willingly to God, not God's, God had, oh, God, God's little, God blush, my God, Ben's god once more, even gods have, God wants, if I were God, finger of God, closer to God, wasn't God calling, God made, not God, God's ultimate grace, path God wants you to be on, God's call, good God, God was, jealous god.
Your wish is my command.
121 x God in all His annoying glory.
For God's sake, enough is enough!
I don't have 121 God-like gifs but here is something for your entertainment…
Only three…I feel kinda bad now.
The swan song…
Totally OTT silly plot, interspersed with a few funny lines, deadpan humor, but also a nice dose of boredom (I even skimmed the sex scenes) and God skulking left, right, above and below, and I decided to cut my losses.
Someone advised me to not check out any reviews before starting Enduring Night. That was a HUGE mistake because if I had known what would happen in this installment, I would never have read it. I NEEDED spoilers because saying it was ridiculous doesn't even begin to cover this stupid BS.
I understand that an author can do with his characters whatever he wants. He can even off them (no worries, when I quit at 56% both MCs were alive). However, when I saw the cover of Enduring Night, I never thought that he would go there and turn Ben into someone who spews that kind of idiotic bullshit that I flat-out refused to digest at 55% and 56%:
What.In.The.Actual.Fuck? What's up with this claptrap? I, for one, wanted to bleach my brain after reading this. The first 40% or 45% were, while being kind of OTT silly, rather ok (2.5 to 3 stars), but when Ben started babbling about God, everything deteriorated fast and at 55% the whole bloody thing got shot to Hell. Irrevocably, that is. Meaning, Enduring Night was down to a one-star rating. Seems to me that the author thought it might be a good idea to explore religion, beliefs, and behavior. I just wasn't willing to follow his lead, thank you very much.
Fuck, no. *snort* Are ideas so few and far between these days that authors have to resort to that kind of plot twist? A series means that I have the right to expect some serious character growth over the course of time, but changing Ben into this ludicrous figure is neither believable nor appropriate. It is absurd. Someone asked me if he was brainwashed. You know what? I did not care to find out because it wouldn't have improved matters one bit. I am done. As in really done.
More quotes for your perusal
He'd been given this--his superb body, and he'd never once thanked God for it.
BLAH.
How…convenient. Well, it's not like it was the first time, so I should have gotten used to it by now.
Ben going all biblical and God-fearing came out of left field and wasn't credible at all. I mean, come on! Since when looks (and acts) that guy like he'd be interested in worshipping God? Oopsie Daisy. Maybe he was worshipping one god in particular since the beginning of the series? And that would be Nikolas. Come to think of it, wouldn't that be blasphemous, worshipping Nikolas?
What I liked
"I have had more rational conversations with Radulf."
For those who don't know who Radulf is…that's their dog.
He suddenly added privately in Ben’s ear, “I cannot imagine what we will do to pass a week in perpetual darkness, can you?”
“Squeezy once wrote to an airline and suggested they have shagging-only toilets installed.”
“I’m not currently thinking mouth, as nothing but absolute drivel ever seems to come out of it.”
“That’s not what you said last night.”
“Ack. So this bodysuit. How would you piss? Shit?”
“Oh, God, it’s not a bodysuit then. I’m wired up, and if you ever touch a part other than the one you’ve chosen you get electrocuted. How’s that?”
“Much more credible. Can I please get back to my—?”
“Choose!”
“You just want me to say…words I do not like saying.”
Ben snorted. “I’ll allow you to point.”
Be that as it may, authors do whatever they please and I, the reader, come to my own conclusions because I have the right to decide what I will spend my money on in the future. I'm actually quitting the series entirely. I'm not willing anymore to shell out so much money for something that does no longer really engage me. The bloom is definitely off the rose. #truthhurts That's as certain as the amen.In.The.Church. Though if that church is pure is anyone's guess. Sorry, I couldn't help that little dig.
This whole bloody thing affected me in a way I would never have expected. My sleep was troubled, I woke up pissed, went to work even more pissed and my mood was bloody sour the whole day.
This reminds me...the Cut & Run series has been given artificial respiration also. The same happens now with Nik and Ben. Maybe I need a brainwash in order to be able to forget the last three books. My favorite installment and absolute highlight was book #4 This Other Country. I want to remember Nik and Ben with fondness and not with rage. What happened to this series is very sad.
Movin' on…
***********************************************
Pre-reading Enduring Night:
The last two books didn't wow me. I'll be giving this series another shot and if it won't rock my world, I will have to say goodbye. You know how it goes…the swan song.
November 3, 2022
John Wiltshire is a brilliant writer. I guarantee that I couldn't stomach some of the same storylines from anyone else.
The blurb for this one was the most ambiguous yet. And this book was set up much like some of the earlier in the series were. In two parts. The first part of the book is more action after Nik and Ben go on a little trip to an island north of Norway together. Haven't they learned that vacationing together is dangerous?
The second part.....well the second part was where Wiltshire proceeded to rip my heart out of my chest. He's surprisingly good at this. I thought he was done with this for a while after the fake-out cheating with Jackson. But no. He still has a way with making you bleed. We spent most of the last book yelling internally at Nik. It's Ben's turn folks! He has quite a shocking surprise for Nik. It changes Nik's life, and he doesn't let Nik have any say in the matter.
The blurb is vague for a reason. And I won't spoil anything with my review. But this was an amazing addition to the series. There isn't a cliffhanger, but there is another book coming. Fans to the series will love it!
The blurb for this one was the most ambiguous yet. And this book was set up much like some of the earlier in the series were. In two parts. The first part of the book is more action after Nik and Ben go on a little trip to an island north of Norway together. Haven't they learned that vacationing together is dangerous?
The second part.....well the second part was where Wiltshire proceeded to rip my heart out of my chest. He's surprisingly good at this. I thought he was done with this for a while after the fake-out cheating with Jackson. But no. He still has a way with making you bleed. We spent most of the last book yelling internally at Nik. It's Ben's turn folks! He has quite a shocking surprise for Nik. It changes Nik's life, and he doesn't let Nik have any say in the matter.
The blurb is vague for a reason. And I won't spoil anything with my review. But this was an amazing addition to the series. There isn't a cliffhanger, but there is another book coming. Fans to the series will love it!
November 9, 2015
John, you're awesome!
“You are everything I wanted him to be, but he never was. You are my…completeness.”
OMG… Another roller coaster ride to hell and back. Enduring Night is the 7th book of the More Heat than the Sun series, and the series ins’t getting old. Fortunately John has no intention to finish it in the foreseeable future.
The first part of the book… Ben and Nik make a journey to Spitzbergen… is full of suspense and nail baiting tension. I loved John’s vivid description of this beautiful but cold, dark and life-threatening place.
The Northern Lights danced their otherworldly, un-choreographed celebration across the vast dome of the night sky, their green luminescence reflected back off the snow and ice, as if tiny land-trapped creatures were dancing in tribute beneath.
There were no words for how Ben felt.
He’d given up thinking moments in his life were perfect, because events inevitably transpired to prove they weren’t. But somehow this flickering dance of light put his life in perspective—perfect but transient. Changing. Unpredictable.
What happens in the perpetual ice scared the hell out of me. Nik and Ben have to fight for their lives… and nearly lose that fight… but never give up.
Living or dead, nothing would threaten Nikolas ever again.
It was a promise Ben had made to himself and intended to keep.
Life was learning to swim hard and fast and keep your head above the shit.
Life was having someone alongside you in every single manoeuvre, every fall, every painful rise again, and knowing that, win or lose, the war was never fought alone…
Anyway, what happens in Spitzbergen is the reason both of them, Ben and Nik, come back to England as very different men…
What made me forgive Ben his sudden turn towards God. My fear that John might exaggerate the religious stuff was… thank God :)… without any reason, I should have had more faith in him and his author skills. :)
I loved Nik in the 2nd part of the book. His determination to do everything in his power to conquer the love of his life and get him back at his side, his perfect plotting… (with the help of Squeezy btw. - I loved Nik’s scenes with the hard ass ‘drill instructor’)… was wonderful written. I fell head over heels for Nik. Again. :)
Ben had a cunning ally now.
But Nikolas was subtle and clever, too. And he reckoned he knew Ben better than even God did. He knew him in ways God didn’t.
At least, he hoped He didn’t.
In the end, though, it’s Ben himself who gets his life back on track! And how he does it. Wow! Even Nik is completely overwhelmed.
“I have had a north star guiding me since I met you, Nikolas Mikkelsen. I’ve never strayed, never not loved you, never not wanted to be by your side. My only fault is wanting you too much, wanting you beyond this life, which is something you can’t control or give me…”
Btw… if you are a Radulf fan you will love his scenes!
All in all, this book is amazing written, I loved it so much that I can’t wait to read the 8th book of the series ‘His Fateful Heap of Days’. Thank you for another wonderful ride, John.
November 14, 2015
Full reviewage on Prism Book Alliance®
This book is a love letter. Granted, it’s an intense, painful, death-defying love letter, to survival, family and, yes, even to love, but it’s a love letter. On that premise, let’s proceed shall we? Here’s the evidence for my case, which I’ve already won, if you were wondering about the outcome. Though Ben and Nik are all the proof necessary, let’s have some fun.
Let’s get this outa the way first: Radulf enjoys a role, as usual and always, and it’s an important one, as usual and always. I have to say, though, he nearly takes a backseat to Squeezy. Yes, Squeezy. He and Tim both, actually. Of all of the other characters in this book, and series, they get the most page time and certainly have the most impact this time around. Well, except for one certain little lady, but more on all of that later. Radulf, Squeezy, and Tim make for a formidable team in their work to make this love letter even get written to begin with. I love them for it. I don’t even want to say more than that for fear of giving an ounce of anything away. As I trust Wiltshire as my storyteller, you can trust me on this.
There were too many silences that needed to be filled. Ben heard them in Nikolas’s head – the spaces of cold terror that could not be eased, even by his unfailing love and attention.
Chapter one, folks, chapter one, and I was already wrapped up in Nik & Ben and Wiltshire’s writing. I should have realized, I should have realized, this being Wiltshire, and Ben & Nik, how important and much of a foreshadowing this passage is. Even so, I had taken a deep breath and told myself that, no matter what happens, it’ll all be ok. Maybe my subconscious knew. I mean, it must have known if I was already talking to myself in order to get through this book. On the flipside, I also remembered that, with this storyteller, I needed to trust him because he’s never let me down. I went with that.
The insights into these characters, lawdy, Wiltshire knows them inside and out and back again, and he’s not at all afraid to demonstrate that by way of making then suffer and soar at the same time. Oddly, this is why and how Ben & Nik keep this world of theirs grounded when the craziness commences. Mostly. This is vital in this particular story because Ben and Nik are pretty much center stage, without most of the other characters – this family they’ve created – around them for most of it. That’s probably the one thing that I missed in this book, spending time with Emilia, Babushka, Molly Rose, and even Miles, and the rest. Yes, they are here in bits and pieces, but that’s about it. This is the Ben & Nick Show, one that has been building for a long time now. It took over the airwaves.
Wiltshire knows how to give us a three dimensional picture and the ways it surrounds and effects and connects to his characters. This is nothing new. It’s also not to be taken for granted. His ability to make the place and the person feel as one is what makes it so easy for me to feel as if I’m right inside that picture, experiencing everything. Isn’t that what we crave from our stories? I know it is for me.
His writing style also has a unique rhythm that is natural and fits this particular world and characters. The dialogue bounces along, making the humor and the surprise and the pain and the love traipse and amble and run at full speed, setting the mood, tone and atmosphere. Yup, it’s that good.
To put that another way, Wiltshire makes me chuckle, clutch my heart, and carry the worry for Ben and Nik, all on a single page. It’s the best kind of whiplash. It’s real and it works.
He was Nikolas’s freedom. Possible the first and only time Nikolas had found someone to be entirely himself with, and he’d found it deep inside Ben’s body. Freedom and life lived without restraint. It didn’t get any better than this.
Ben lost sight of this. I don’t even know what to say beyond that without giving something away. The cause of his major lax in memory is worthy, it’s everything. Still, he lost sight of it and, well, there are always consequences for these two any time either one of them loses sight of the other. Haven’t they learned that this just shouldn’t be done?
I guess I can understand it, though. Like Ben and Nik, Wiltshire makes me feel 100% confident in what’s going on while simultaneously making me wonder if I have even the first clue. This is when I must hold onto my trust in my storyteller. I was gripping tightly. A lot. Most of the time. Jussayin’.
However many times he told Ben that they made their own paths in life, the sneaking suspicion often hit Nikolas that there was, in fact, a very sure and certain hand at the helm of this. Someone had given him Ben, after all.
It can’t be said any simpler or more clearly than that. This is also just about as revelatory as you’ll ever experience Nik. Like I said, these two help to keep me grounded in the story, especially when things get tense, uncertain, and hit the fan in every sense, which is often. I mean, this is Nik & Ben.
Riveted. Unable to pull myself away. I was at the halfway point and already exhausted and awash in a post-adrenalized haze, and still had half the book to experience. Yet to come: desperation, hard work, suffering, newly introduced elements, brief respites thanks to those who now qualify as old friends, and so much more.
I’m pretty sure this is the first time in this series I was close to tears at the end.
This is a love letter to Benjamin Rider-Mikkelsen and Nikolas Mikkelsen. I think they’ve already taken a gander at it, furrowed their brows, smirked, not so secretly agreed, pretended they’ve done so secretly, and wish and hope and vow to try to live out their lives as destined. Given the title of book 8, His Fateful Heap of Days, and where it’s set – per some recent interviews with the author – I too have hopes. I know I’ll be there ready to experience more of Ben and Nik and their family and this life they continue to build.
This book is a love letter. Granted, it’s an intense, painful, death-defying love letter, to survival, family and, yes, even to love, but it’s a love letter. On that premise, let’s proceed shall we? Here’s the evidence for my case, which I’ve already won, if you were wondering about the outcome. Though Ben and Nik are all the proof necessary, let’s have some fun.
Let’s get this outa the way first: Radulf enjoys a role, as usual and always, and it’s an important one, as usual and always. I have to say, though, he nearly takes a backseat to Squeezy. Yes, Squeezy. He and Tim both, actually. Of all of the other characters in this book, and series, they get the most page time and certainly have the most impact this time around. Well, except for one certain little lady, but more on all of that later. Radulf, Squeezy, and Tim make for a formidable team in their work to make this love letter even get written to begin with. I love them for it. I don’t even want to say more than that for fear of giving an ounce of anything away. As I trust Wiltshire as my storyteller, you can trust me on this.
There were too many silences that needed to be filled. Ben heard them in Nikolas’s head – the spaces of cold terror that could not be eased, even by his unfailing love and attention.
Chapter one, folks, chapter one, and I was already wrapped up in Nik & Ben and Wiltshire’s writing. I should have realized, I should have realized, this being Wiltshire, and Ben & Nik, how important and much of a foreshadowing this passage is. Even so, I had taken a deep breath and told myself that, no matter what happens, it’ll all be ok. Maybe my subconscious knew. I mean, it must have known if I was already talking to myself in order to get through this book. On the flipside, I also remembered that, with this storyteller, I needed to trust him because he’s never let me down. I went with that.
The insights into these characters, lawdy, Wiltshire knows them inside and out and back again, and he’s not at all afraid to demonstrate that by way of making then suffer and soar at the same time. Oddly, this is why and how Ben & Nik keep this world of theirs grounded when the craziness commences. Mostly. This is vital in this particular story because Ben and Nik are pretty much center stage, without most of the other characters – this family they’ve created – around them for most of it. That’s probably the one thing that I missed in this book, spending time with Emilia, Babushka, Molly Rose, and even Miles, and the rest. Yes, they are here in bits and pieces, but that’s about it. This is the Ben & Nick Show, one that has been building for a long time now. It took over the airwaves.
Wiltshire knows how to give us a three dimensional picture and the ways it surrounds and effects and connects to his characters. This is nothing new. It’s also not to be taken for granted. His ability to make the place and the person feel as one is what makes it so easy for me to feel as if I’m right inside that picture, experiencing everything. Isn’t that what we crave from our stories? I know it is for me.
His writing style also has a unique rhythm that is natural and fits this particular world and characters. The dialogue bounces along, making the humor and the surprise and the pain and the love traipse and amble and run at full speed, setting the mood, tone and atmosphere. Yup, it’s that good.
To put that another way, Wiltshire makes me chuckle, clutch my heart, and carry the worry for Ben and Nik, all on a single page. It’s the best kind of whiplash. It’s real and it works.
He was Nikolas’s freedom. Possible the first and only time Nikolas had found someone to be entirely himself with, and he’d found it deep inside Ben’s body. Freedom and life lived without restraint. It didn’t get any better than this.
Ben lost sight of this. I don’t even know what to say beyond that without giving something away. The cause of his major lax in memory is worthy, it’s everything. Still, he lost sight of it and, well, there are always consequences for these two any time either one of them loses sight of the other. Haven’t they learned that this just shouldn’t be done?
I guess I can understand it, though. Like Ben and Nik, Wiltshire makes me feel 100% confident in what’s going on while simultaneously making me wonder if I have even the first clue. This is when I must hold onto my trust in my storyteller. I was gripping tightly. A lot. Most of the time. Jussayin’.
However many times he told Ben that they made their own paths in life, the sneaking suspicion often hit Nikolas that there was, in fact, a very sure and certain hand at the helm of this. Someone had given him Ben, after all.
It can’t be said any simpler or more clearly than that. This is also just about as revelatory as you’ll ever experience Nik. Like I said, these two help to keep me grounded in the story, especially when things get tense, uncertain, and hit the fan in every sense, which is often. I mean, this is Nik & Ben.
Riveted. Unable to pull myself away. I was at the halfway point and already exhausted and awash in a post-adrenalized haze, and still had half the book to experience. Yet to come: desperation, hard work, suffering, newly introduced elements, brief respites thanks to those who now qualify as old friends, and so much more.
I’m pretty sure this is the first time in this series I was close to tears at the end.
This is a love letter to Benjamin Rider-Mikkelsen and Nikolas Mikkelsen. I think they’ve already taken a gander at it, furrowed their brows, smirked, not so secretly agreed, pretended they’ve done so secretly, and wish and hope and vow to try to live out their lives as destined. Given the title of book 8, His Fateful Heap of Days, and where it’s set – per some recent interviews with the author – I too have hopes. I know I’ll be there ready to experience more of Ben and Nik and their family and this life they continue to build.
January 11, 2022
4 stars for the first half
3 stars for the second half
There’s a new development in this book that won’t be to everybody’s taste. It wasn’t to mine and I came in fairly prepared, having read some very general spoilers a few years back. I knew it would have to do with and I considered dropping the series before going there, but I’ve liked it so much so far that curiosity won. I don’t regret reading this and, as much as I don’t enjoy reading about these things, I don’t think it was out of character. I’m not sure what I expected, but when I realized in what way it involved and how it was handled immediately after the plot twist, I thought I knew how it would work out and I kind of loved it, despite everything. Until I realized I was wrong and the author was actually going in a slightly different direction and…I didn’t hate it, I thought it was well done and it wasn’t even out of character, but maybe I’ve reached the point where the characters and I want different things out of life, so to speak.
I can’t elaborate without some big spoilers, so consider this your warning.
I hope I’m wrong, but the last part of this book felt like the series is “growing up” and leaving part of what was fun behind, focusing more on things I don’t care to read about. Even though I’m now slightly more hopeful that the way the , I’m still wary because I find anything to do with it boring, even when it’s well-done and in character. Like I said, I’m happy for them, I don’t think the series was ruined, and I’m very grateful I’m still able to say so because I know how easily that can happen, but now I’m wondering if I’ll be forced to part ways with it anyway due to irreconcilable differences.
I’m almost glad there’s only one other book left at the moment.
3 stars for the second half
There’s a new development in this book that won’t be to everybody’s taste. It wasn’t to mine and I came in fairly prepared, having read some very general spoilers a few years back. I knew it would have to do with and I considered dropping the series before going there, but I’ve liked it so much so far that curiosity won. I don’t regret reading this and, as much as I don’t enjoy reading about these things, I don’t think it was out of character. I’m not sure what I expected, but when I realized in what way it involved and how it was handled immediately after the plot twist, I thought I knew how it would work out and I kind of loved it, despite everything. Until I realized I was wrong and the author was actually going in a slightly different direction and…I didn’t hate it, I thought it was well done and it wasn’t even out of character, but maybe I’ve reached the point where the characters and I want different things out of life, so to speak.
I can’t elaborate without some big spoilers, so consider this your warning.
I hope I’m wrong, but the last part of this book felt like the series is “growing up” and leaving part of what was fun behind, focusing more on things I don’t care to read about. Even though I’m now slightly more hopeful that the way the , I’m still wary because I find anything to do with it boring, even when it’s well-done and in character. Like I said, I’m happy for them, I don’t think the series was ruined, and I’m very grateful I’m still able to say so because I know how easily that can happen, but now I’m wondering if I’ll be forced to part ways with it anyway due to irreconcilable differences.
I’m almost glad there’s only one other book left at the moment.
October 27, 2015
5 stars
"I told you once that we burn hotter than the sun. What good is there to life on this planet if the sun decided not to burn? Tell me that."
The first half of this was chilling and dark -- with small breaks of light and humour -- in that way that John Wiltshire does so well. I'm thinking especially of The Bridge of Silver Wings and Aleksay's Kingdom.
The second half is the aftermath. When we get to remember that Nik and Ben are not so perfect. This part is fun because, well, we get to see Nikolas in full manipulation mode. It's impossible not to love him when he's like this. Yet there are also poignant moments here because, although he wouldn't want people to realize this, Nikolas is just human too.
"Nikolas felt a smile forming and rose to his feet with a wince. He ached everywhere. Except in the place that counted the most.
It was amazing how quickly a broken heart could be healed."
Another wonderful addition to this series.
p.s. If you're a Radulf fan, you're going to love this one. Believe me!!!
"I told you once that we burn hotter than the sun. What good is there to life on this planet if the sun decided not to burn? Tell me that."
The first half of this was chilling and dark -- with small breaks of light and humour -- in that way that John Wiltshire does so well. I'm thinking especially of The Bridge of Silver Wings and Aleksay's Kingdom.
The second half is the aftermath. When we get to remember that Nik and Ben are not so perfect. This part is fun because, well, we get to see Nikolas in full manipulation mode. It's impossible not to love him when he's like this. Yet there are also poignant moments here because, although he wouldn't want people to realize this, Nikolas is just human too.
"Nikolas felt a smile forming and rose to his feet with a wince. He ached everywhere. Except in the place that counted the most.
It was amazing how quickly a broken heart could be healed."
Another wonderful addition to this series.
p.s. If you're a Radulf fan, you're going to love this one. Believe me!!!
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November 5, 2022
Nikolas cupped his cheek. "I don't know, min skat. I don't know." He risked a quick glance at Ben's troubled face and added, "I have told you before—you are the only thing in my whole life that has ever made sense to me."
these past seven books have had so many story arcs where the mcs go through so much shit—nonstop pain, angst or heartbreak—and although each book has managed to break my heart, one thing that heals me from the pain is Nikolas and Ben's love for one another. truly, even during the moments where i was frustrated with them, the love always comes out stronger. 🥺
part 1 was personally my favorite when they were on that vacation (as if their vacations can ever stay drama free though😭) trip and the angst came in during the second part which i am a bit conflicted on cause .
these past seven books have had so many story arcs where the mcs go through so much shit—nonstop pain, angst or heartbreak—and although each book has managed to break my heart, one thing that heals me from the pain is Nikolas and Ben's love for one another. truly, even during the moments where i was frustrated with them, the love always comes out stronger. 🥺
part 1 was personally my favorite when they were on that vacation (as if their vacations can ever stay drama free though😭) trip and the angst came in during the second part which i am a bit conflicted on cause .
May 29, 2016
John's done it again! Another 5+ star read.
This book reminded me more of Book 4 than the intervening books. Once again in two parts and the first section is basically the set up for the second.
The blurb is brilliantly ambiguous: Desperate and fearing for Nikolas’s life, Ben makes a bargain with a surprising ally. For the first time, Nikolas meets an enemy more powerful than he is. But fortunately, not as sneaky
There was a lot of speculation about who the ally and the old adversary would be and I did not see THAT coming! But it worked brilliantly. And in a way that I could identify with personally. If only I had a Nik in my life at the time.
It is so hard to say more about the book without revealing spoilers, so I'll simply say that, if you liked Book 4, you will love Book 7.
And there are more to come.
The series is not getting old. This book explored an aspect of themselves and their relationship that hadn't even been touched on before.
The extended family is there but not invasive.
And Squeezy! He even had me wanting to go out and exercise.
This book reminded me more of Book 4 than the intervening books. Once again in two parts and the first section is basically the set up for the second.
The blurb is brilliantly ambiguous: Desperate and fearing for Nikolas’s life, Ben makes a bargain with a surprising ally. For the first time, Nikolas meets an enemy more powerful than he is. But fortunately, not as sneaky
There was a lot of speculation about who the ally and the old adversary would be and I did not see THAT coming! But it worked brilliantly. And in a way that I could identify with personally. If only I had a Nik in my life at the time.
It is so hard to say more about the book without revealing spoilers, so I'll simply say that, if you liked Book 4, you will love Book 7.
And there are more to come.
The series is not getting old. This book explored an aspect of themselves and their relationship that hadn't even been touched on before.
The extended family is there but not invasive.
And Squeezy! He even had me wanting to go out and exercise.
October 31, 2015
4.5 STARS “But I think you’ve changed more than I have. As I told Stefan— do you recall my son? Of course you do. As I told him— at a very apt moment— I never really change. I just call myself by different names. But you, Ben, I think you’ve become an entirely different man from the one I fell in love with.”
Nik and Ben already knew how most of there vacations usually go but a weekend in the Polar north seems too tempting to resist. And it's not that all their vacation ended up into a disaster. Unsurprisingly though, the few nights spent in Svalbard went awry when isolation and murder loomed over them. In the midst of it, Nik's life once again was in grave danger. Ben would do anything to save Nik. He would sacrifice anything just for him to live. However in the process giving Nik a life to battle a war alone. Or was he waging war against the right enemy?
For if Nikolas had once fallen from heaven, as Ben had accused him of once or twice in private moments, then wasn’t it equally possible that he could one day rise again?
Wow.
Once again John Wiltshire went beyond my expectations. Clearly, this series portrays how talented John is. I was speechless when I finally finished this book last night and despite having slept on it, this book was the first thought I had the moment I woke up. As usual, beautiful writing that strikes through the bones, unexpected plot twist, engrossing setting, endearing beautiful characters, so many fun moments, angst so deep and love so so passionate it kills you.
“If you could only have one part of me ever again, what bit would you choose?”.
...
“I have decided.”
Ben turned his head, lazy with heat and orgasm, the tension of the morning quite gone. “You don’t really need to tell me. I can still feel you inside.”
Nikolas smiled, equally relaxed. “Then you would be wrong, min skat. I would choose your heart. You are the only person who has ever loved me, and that would be hard to replace.”
I spent the first half of this book in cloud nine. The characters never fail to make me smile and grin like an idiot. It was so fun reading about the life Nik and Ben created for themselves. It was so heart-warming to once again witness their love for each other.
Also, one of the best things that happened in this series is Squeezy! And I loved that I saw another side of him in this book.
“Squeezy once wrote to an airline and suggested they have shagging-only toilets installed.”
“If your moronic friend trashes our house while we are away, I will skin him alive.”
“I think he’s turned a corner. Tim makes him pee sitting down.”
What I had not really foreseen, that the author so cleverly let us fall into the false sense of security of what length this two would do for each other, is this new "enemy" in Nik and Ben's relationship.
For Nik, this enemy of his, this rival of his over Ben is someone he never thought he'd have to face one day. Yet despite his predicament, he's armed himself with the knowledge of how to wage war to win his love back. It was amusing really, to see Nik's methods, to be "proactive instead of reactive".
I couldn't help enjoying the half part of the book, despite it being very painful at the same time. I was really so sorry for Ben. Poor poor Ben. I ache for him. I know he too was hurting and confused with the situation there were in but they have to rise up from this fight victorious. The both of them. So although the half part was full of angst, it was also full of love and courage.
And realizations.
This book made me cry not just once but twice! John Wiltshire's words are so full of strong emotions, it was overwhelming. And I hate that I knew where both characters are coming from. Why they were doing what they did.
When it came down to it, he suspected he’d always loved Ben Rider more than Ben loved him.
How do you measure love?
Then Ben blurted out, “Please don’t…”
“What, Ben? Move on?”
At this point, I was ready to strangle John Wiltshire. It was killing me thinking the books might end this way. That we're going to have a super cliff-hanger wherein Nik and Ben weren't able to win this in the end.
“I’m sorry.” It felt good to be the one saying it for once. “I can’t promise that. And I’ve been thinking, too… I think you need to make an appointment to visit the court again. Remember that word they gave you— uncoupling. It’s very apt in our case. You need to do that, Ben. Literally. No hyphen. You can’t be Rider-Mikkelsen anymore. It’s not fair on me— not fair on anyone I ask to m—”
So what you gonna do now Ben? huh? What are you gonna do?!
This book was such a roller coaster. And I love it. This was such an amazing ride, the struggle, the ups and down, the words so delicious I ate them all up, I can't wait to read the next book!!! This was sooooo good! Thank you John Wilthshire.
It was fun making this long long review I hope it's making sense haha. Hope everyone enjoys/enjoyed this book! :)
“Who’s to tell us what God wants? Seems to me that if I were God, and I’d created man, I’d be pretty pleased if he looked like you.”
ETA 10/31/15:
*****************
August 25, 2019
4.5 stars from me. A tale of two halves, yet again. The pseudo ghost story part 1 in which Ben and Nik go to Svalbard in the Arctic Circle (think Philip Pullman's Northern Lights series) to ostensibly research a film role which Ben has been offered, but get FAR more than they bargained for - 4 stars....
....and part 2 which follows immediately on from what happens in Svalbard, in which Ben thinks he needs to thank God for saving Nik in part 1, then tries to find God and Nik 'battles' God to get his Ben back. I loved the interplay between Nik and Squeezy, Radulf's 'acting' on command and after what happens in New York with James Corden...well, I don't think puddle of goo is too strong a phrase. 5 stars. Oh, and yes, you HAVE read my bookshelves correctly...compared to other stories in this series, there is little sex. Read the second part, and you'll understand why.
Overall, another winner from John. Many thanks.
....and part 2 which follows immediately on from what happens in Svalbard, in which Ben thinks he needs to thank God for saving Nik in part 1, then tries to find God and Nik 'battles' God to get his Ben back. I loved the interplay between Nik and Squeezy, Radulf's 'acting' on command and after what happens in New York with James Corden...well, I don't think puddle of goo is too strong a phrase. 5 stars. Oh, and yes, you HAVE read my bookshelves correctly...compared to other stories in this series, there is little sex. Read the second part, and you'll understand why.
Overall, another winner from John. Many thanks.
December 6, 2015
Right! Second attempt to pen my opinions regarding this most entertaining of novels. (Remember to click Save....remember to click Save).
Part 1 of Enduring Night, because again Mr Wiltshire has separated his novel into two very distinct parts.....Part 1 is, a re-hash of all the very best Agatha Christie novels that ever were/are (apart from the writing in John's case is significantly better than Dame Agatha's)....
Part 1 is most definitely Christie meets Flemming, and I loved it and really started to laugh-out-loud when Nik believed he really was on a Murder/Mystery weekend. All the characters gathered around the fireplace for the big reveal andPoirot one of the characters starts to summarise the Murder. Really funny!
Part 2...the contentious part. So very tongue-in-cheek, so very funny! Because part 1 usually links to Part 2, (tenuously at times)....I was still guffawing as I started the religious sect(ion) story-line.
I personally have no faith, I must just state for the record, but I come from a religious background, both RC and CofE and I leave that stuff to my immediate family, especially my Aunt, who aged 70+ joined the Brahma Kumaris and shocked the Christian relatives even more so than my "coming out" thirty years ago!
The character Nik surpasses all expectations in this novel. Absolutely hysterically funny. Dry, witty and so fantastically adoring of Ben. Great story. Loved it. Definitely five stars.
SAVE!
Part 1 of Enduring Night, because again Mr Wiltshire has separated his novel into two very distinct parts.....Part 1 is, a re-hash of all the very best Agatha Christie novels that ever were/are (apart from the writing in John's case is significantly better than Dame Agatha's)....
Part 1 is most definitely Christie meets Flemming, and I loved it and really started to laugh-out-loud when Nik believed he really was on a Murder/Mystery weekend. All the characters gathered around the fireplace for the big reveal and
Part 2...the contentious part. So very tongue-in-cheek, so very funny! Because part 1 usually links to Part 2, (tenuously at times)....I was still guffawing as I started the religious sect(ion) story-line.
I personally have no faith, I must just state for the record, but I come from a religious background, both RC and CofE and I leave that stuff to my immediate family, especially my Aunt, who aged 70+ joined the Brahma Kumaris and shocked the Christian relatives even more so than my "coming out" thirty years ago!
The character Nik surpasses all expectations in this novel. Absolutely hysterically funny. Dry, witty and so fantastically adoring of Ben. Great story. Loved it. Definitely five stars.
SAVE!
October 26, 2015
This author just amazes me. Here's the thing, I've heard a lot of people criticize this couple for not having chemistry...which I don't get. People also criticize the lack of "believability" or "realism".... Here's the thing, I have developed over the course of all these books an intense trust of the author and his relationship to these characters. Whatever is happening, even when it squeaks me out at the time, is always necessary. Not one situation, if implausible, is "extra", it all brings us to the moments of sublime perfection. The romance is intense. It may not be gushy and cute and traditionally happy, but - Nik especially, he doesn't say a lot, but when he does, it's INTENSE. It's heart wrenchingly right to the center. It's PERFECT. They may not be for everyone, especially not for those into instant gratification and effortless cutesy, made for tv romance novels. But if you like your characters flawed, and you like the perfect punch of angst, perfectly balanced with a very potent dose of SOULFUL and unforgettable connections...well... try it.
can't wait for #8. Too good.
I wanted to choke Ben a few times. And I wanted to choke Nik too.
It's not a More Heat Than The Sun book if I don't want to choke and comfort them both, at some point :)
can't wait for #8. Too good.
I wanted to choke Ben a few times. And I wanted to choke Nik too.
It's not a More Heat Than The Sun book if I don't want to choke and comfort them both, at some point :)
November 1, 2015
Sometimes, Ben reckoned, Nikolas was at his best when he wasn't awake. Then, he was....perfect.
Loved, loved, loved this book so much. I thought the setting on the polar ice was fantastic, really creepy at times, and I was on the edge of my seat. I also enjoyed all the scenes back on Dartmoor, especially the part in Ben's dilapidated cottage, with them trapped by the snow.
Nik's time training up with Squeezy was fun, as you would expect, and it was great to see them on their own for once. Also, as much as I would have liked to see them 'together' even for one night, I'm glad they didn't. It would spoil everything.
You are everything I wanted him to be, but he never was. You are my....completeness.
I loved it when Nik went into action mode, him versus God. I would have expected him to fall apart, maybe give up, but he knew what needed doing and just went for it.
John's writing is perfect, as always, and he's now one of my firm favourites. Looking forward to the next book and hope I don't have to wait too long.
Loved, loved, loved this book so much. I thought the setting on the polar ice was fantastic, really creepy at times, and I was on the edge of my seat. I also enjoyed all the scenes back on Dartmoor, especially the part in Ben's dilapidated cottage, with them trapped by the snow.
Nik's time training up with Squeezy was fun, as you would expect, and it was great to see them on their own for once. Also, as much as I would have liked to see them 'together' even for one night, I'm glad they didn't. It would spoil everything.
You are everything I wanted him to be, but he never was. You are my....completeness.
I loved it when Nik went into action mode, him versus God. I would have expected him to fall apart, maybe give up, but he knew what needed doing and just went for it.
John's writing is perfect, as always, and he's now one of my firm favourites. Looking forward to the next book and hope I don't have to wait too long.
October 30, 2015
Another stellar installment in this series. Ben and Nik explore the polar ice and their relationship takes an interesting turn. I loved every second, and can't wait til the next one.
September 11, 2021
This has become so ridiculous I can’t…
Not even much sexy times…
Gah!!
Not even much sexy times…
Gah!!
November 23, 2024
"I would choose your heart. You are the only person who has ever loved me, and that would be hard to replace."
Once again Ben and Nikolas are put to the test, as in they find themselves in the most outrageous situations. Like most of the books, these are split into two different scenarios. The first one being stuck in the Artic while people are dying, fighting polar bears, seeing ghosts. That, thats some normal type shit for these two. It was fun, but Ben was having some weird weird moments. Ben to me has always been unstable. Nikolas yes, is someone who will kill anyone, lie about anything, and hide everything from Ben to keep a "better" image of himself, and even sees ghosts of his past. But Nikolas knows these things about himself, knows some shit is in his head from his fucked up childhood, teenage years, adulthood, okay his whole life. Ben on the other hand, lets anything and everything fuck his brain up. He gets these big old ideas, and falls into trappings so easily, so him becoming a weirdo in the second half was not a surprise per say but made me want to strangle him. He really was out here dying of brain rot with this whole God thing. (sorry im not religious). Maybe Nikolas needed to chain Ben to the bed this time for two weeks. But anyways Im glad we got a pretty good resolution which solidified their relationship, after everything. But God knows what kind of crazy shit is going to happen to them in the next two books, plus their is a whole other series after this. God, I will never get over the emotional rollercoaster that is Nikolas and Ben.
Once again Ben and Nikolas are put to the test, as in they find themselves in the most outrageous situations. Like most of the books, these are split into two different scenarios. The first one being stuck in the Artic while people are dying, fighting polar bears, seeing ghosts. That, thats some normal type shit for these two. It was fun, but Ben was having some weird weird moments. Ben to me has always been unstable. Nikolas yes, is someone who will kill anyone, lie about anything, and hide everything from Ben to keep a "better" image of himself, and even sees ghosts of his past. But Nikolas knows these things about himself, knows some shit is in his head from his fucked up childhood, teenage years, adulthood, okay his whole life. Ben on the other hand, lets anything and everything fuck his brain up. He gets these big old ideas, and falls into trappings so easily, so him becoming a weirdo in the second half was not a surprise per say but made me want to strangle him. He really was out here dying of brain rot with this whole God thing. (sorry im not religious). Maybe Nikolas needed to chain Ben to the bed this time for two weeks. But anyways Im glad we got a pretty good resolution which solidified their relationship, after everything. But God knows what kind of crazy shit is going to happen to them in the next two books, plus their is a whole other series after this. God, I will never get over the emotional rollercoaster that is Nikolas and Ben.
March 18, 2024
4.5*, rounded up to 5*
Phew... I must confess that I was a little bit torn about this book and it pains me to say that round about 30% I was almost ready to admit defeat and give up. For me it was too drawn out and nothing really happened, it didn't captivate me like all the other books before.
In retrospect I think, maybe I expected too much; maybe it was a book hangover in the middle of a book/series, because I've read all books in one go. I don't know... But it wouldn't be fair to give a low rating, because the only one to blame here would be me.
It was admittedly not my favorite but a great book, nonetheless, and I'm so glad I didn't give up. The second half reminded me again why I love this series so much. There was the ubiquitous humor, the underlying tension and the heartbreak (a lot of it was mine!!!) and I loved the psychological warfare of Nik to win Ben back... I suffered vicariously with both of them, but the ending was nearly perfect for me.
Now I can hardly wait to read the next book and I'm happy that I won't have to wait too long. Thank God, it's almost April...
Phew... I must confess that I was a little bit torn about this book and it pains me to say that round about 30% I was almost ready to admit defeat and give up. For me it was too drawn out and nothing really happened, it didn't captivate me like all the other books before.
In retrospect I think, maybe I expected too much; maybe it was a book hangover in the middle of a book/series, because I've read all books in one go. I don't know... But it wouldn't be fair to give a low rating, because the only one to blame here would be me.
It was admittedly not my favorite but a great book, nonetheless, and I'm so glad I didn't give up. The second half reminded me again why I love this series so much. There was the ubiquitous humor, the underlying tension and the heartbreak (a lot of it was mine!!!) and I loved the psychological warfare of Nik to win Ben back... I suffered vicariously with both of them, but the ending was nearly perfect for me.
Now I can hardly wait to read the next book and I'm happy that I won't have to wait too long. Thank God, it's almost April...
October 22, 2015
As plots go, this one is just as implausible as its predecessors in the series, but Ben and Nik are so hugely and immensely entertaining that I don't even care.
I love that Ben's new thing is bitch-slapping Nikolas. I love that Nikolas plays his little games. I love the dog so very very much.
This book filled a few hours of my day with sheer fun.
I love that Ben's new thing is bitch-slapping Nikolas. I love that Nikolas plays his little games. I love the dog so very very much.
This book filled a few hours of my day with sheer fun.
June 4, 2016
So this episode involves a polar bear:
And Nikolas versus God:
'God wanted to battle him for Ben Rider-Mikkelsen?
Fucking bring it on.'
And Nikolas versus God:
'God wanted to battle him for Ben Rider-Mikkelsen?
Fucking bring it on.'
October 24, 2015
Loved it! Wow, what can I say? This one was so emotional, but was also so touching, funny, inspiring, etc. Nik and Ben have one of the most epic love stories I have ever read. They've been through so much in 12 years. Every adventure they go on just makes them stronger and more sure that they belong together.
I just have one request though, John: I need more Miles.
I just have one request though, John: I need more Miles.
November 18, 2015
Angst. Lots and lots of angst. This book is jam-packed full of suspense and heartache...
I won't lie, there were aspects of this book that I didn't really like. The storyline on the Polar Ice trip didn't overly grip me. I thought that it was all wrapped up too neatly and clean. It was all over too suddenly.
And the second half of the book, once they are back to safety, was even harder for me to read. I am not a religious person, in any way, so it pained me to see what Ben was putting Nik through because of some new belief he has. He was completely throwing their life away and it was horrible to see :(
I was soooo proud of Nikolas in this book. When Ben revealed his new 'pure' intentions I thought Nik was going to freak out and take control of Ben's life and forbid him from doing what he wanted to, but he didn't. He stayed calm and collected, even when it killed him to think of not being with Ben at all.
He knew exactly when he had to do and he was ruthless, watching from the side-lines as Ben's life was turned upside down, planning to be there every step of the way.
I was so happy with how this book ended, but I want to see less crazy drama. I want Ben and Nik to be undivided and solid as a rock. No more drama. Please!
Great quotes:
"I would choose your heart. You are the only person who has ever loved me, and that would be hard to replace."
**
'Yeah, whatever, death had been stalking him for years. It needed to learn to run a bit faster.'
**
'Ben was the one who brought everything to life - bursting in from a run, always active, restless, wanting to do things. The hub. The beating heart of their lives.'
I won't lie, there were aspects of this book that I didn't really like. The storyline on the Polar Ice trip didn't overly grip me. I thought that it was all wrapped up too neatly and clean. It was all over too suddenly.
And the second half of the book, once they are back to safety, was even harder for me to read. I am not a religious person, in any way, so it pained me to see what Ben was putting Nik through because of some new belief he has. He was completely throwing their life away and it was horrible to see :(
I was soooo proud of Nikolas in this book. When Ben revealed his new 'pure' intentions I thought Nik was going to freak out and take control of Ben's life and forbid him from doing what he wanted to, but he didn't. He stayed calm and collected, even when it killed him to think of not being with Ben at all.
He knew exactly when he had to do and he was ruthless, watching from the side-lines as Ben's life was turned upside down, planning to be there every step of the way.
I was so happy with how this book ended, but I want to see less crazy drama. I want Ben and Nik to be undivided and solid as a rock. No more drama. Please!
Great quotes:
"I would choose your heart. You are the only person who has ever loved me, and that would be hard to replace."
**
'Yeah, whatever, death had been stalking him for years. It needed to learn to run a bit faster.'
**
'Ben was the one who brought everything to life - bursting in from a run, always active, restless, wanting to do things. The hub. The beating heart of their lives.'
October 24, 2015
What can I say other than this book cover has to be the most fitting cover for a story I have ever seen. It was what the plot line embodied. I was so glad to be back in Nik and Bens world of mystery , suspense and love story. I was totally caught off guard as to who the " villain " was in the story ... He walked a fine line and I felt he did it perfectly. Nik never fails to surprise me with his twists and turns. Their love story continues to grow and I can not wait for book eight. Ten you have to read to see how it unfolds stars !!!!
April 24, 2017
Loved it! Only one more to go :(
October 28, 2015
A CONFUSED,UNCOMFORTABLE 3.5 from me
This was not the book I was expecting, at all. After the shocking occurrences in book six ‘Deaths Ink Black Shadow’ I was looking forwards to understanding the ghosts from Nik’s past that would not lay down and die.
John is an onion of a writer. There are so many layers to his stories, and when the reader thinks they are on solid ground, he pulls back another layer.
In ‘Enduring Night’ we see a *little* of the fall out of that fateful death on the moor. The depths Nik went to, to save Ben’s life became an unspoken wound between them. Consequently, what Ben had then done for Nik,in dealing with Anatoly haunted him. Ben decided that Nik had too many burdens and he alone would carry all that Anatoly told him. Nik need never know. But psychologically, Ben Rider-Mikklesen began to fall apart.
This book is a tale of two halves. After a heart wrenching prologue, we follow Nik and Ben on yet another holiday, this time to Svalbard in the Arctic Circle. We know it won’t end well. The pseudo ghost story part one was fun, the sex was smokin' and wonderfully written, and Nik continues to delight with his one liners. The spooky moments were enjoyable and very Scooby Doo.
Now,I can take or leave horror, and gore, it rarely scares me. However, in part two, John pulled out the one thing that does freak me out, down to my very bones. And it is this thing that John used to put a wedge between Nik and Ben that made this story annoyingly frustrating,-
Ben has always been beautiful, occasionally a little dumb, and very gullible. The prime example being in book 4 (?)when Ben first discovered his real family in Devon, and was lead astray by his half brother and their hurrah party set, to then have his family attempt to murder him to get his inheritance. Ben was at a vulnerable stage in his life and in need of roots. He was so desperate to belong and have a place in the world, that he was easy to fool…and it nearly cost him his life.
You would have thought Ben would have learned his lesson about gullibility, but here again, Ben is vulnerable, in need of reassurance. His world has been shaken to the core NO NO NO!
The only good thing is that with Nik's recovery and training montage :-), he is now battle ready, and know's Squeezy is physically his better, and has his back.
But still, so many questions remain unanswered.
-Who killed Kate? ...oh yeah...remember her!!
-Whatever happened to the 'forces' that were aiming for Nik's downfall?...they are taking a bloomin' long time to get their mark.
-What secrets did Anatoly tell Ben?
-Who sent a text asking 'those people' to 'come' and pray for Nik?
-I'm sure there are lots more !!
Consider me disturbed, confused, uncomfortable...and desperate for book 8 to tie up some threads.
This was not the book I was expecting, at all. After the shocking occurrences in book six ‘Deaths Ink Black Shadow’ I was looking forwards to understanding the ghosts from Nik’s past that would not lay down and die.
John is an onion of a writer. There are so many layers to his stories, and when the reader thinks they are on solid ground, he pulls back another layer.
In ‘Enduring Night’ we see a *little* of the fall out of that fateful death on the moor. The depths Nik went to, to save Ben’s life became an unspoken wound between them. Consequently, what Ben had then done for Nik,in dealing with Anatoly haunted him. Ben decided that Nik had too many burdens and he alone would carry all that Anatoly told him. Nik need never know. But psychologically, Ben Rider-Mikklesen began to fall apart.
This book is a tale of two halves. After a heart wrenching prologue, we follow Nik and Ben on yet another holiday, this time to Svalbard in the Arctic Circle. We know it won’t end well. The pseudo ghost story part one was fun, the sex was smokin' and wonderfully written, and Nik continues to delight with his one liners. The spooky moments were enjoyable and very Scooby Doo.
Now,I can take or leave horror, and gore, it rarely scares me. However, in part two, John pulled out the one thing that does freak me out, down to my very bones. And it is this thing that John used to put a wedge between Nik and Ben that made this story annoyingly frustrating,-
Ben has always been beautiful, occasionally a little dumb, and very gullible. The prime example being in book 4 (?)when Ben first discovered his real family in Devon, and was lead astray by his half brother and their hurrah party set, to then have his family attempt to murder him to get his inheritance. Ben was at a vulnerable stage in his life and in need of roots. He was so desperate to belong and have a place in the world, that he was easy to fool…and it nearly cost him his life.
You would have thought Ben would have learned his lesson about gullibility, but here again, Ben is vulnerable, in need of reassurance. His world has been shaken to the core NO NO NO!
The only good thing is that with Nik's recovery and training montage :-), he is now battle ready, and know's Squeezy is physically his better, and has his back.
But still, so many questions remain unanswered.
-Who killed Kate? ...oh yeah...remember her!!
-Whatever happened to the 'forces' that were aiming for Nik's downfall?...they are taking a bloomin' long time to get their mark.
-What secrets did Anatoly tell Ben?
-Who sent a text asking 'those people' to 'come' and pray for Nik?
-I'm sure there are lots more !!
Consider me disturbed, confused, uncomfortable...and desperate for book 8 to tie up some threads.
September 12, 2025
There’s very little I can say about Ben and Nick that I haven’t already and as expected, this was a 5-star read for me despite having taken a 1-year break from the series.
Much like its predecessors, the book is split into two parts with the first consisting of the “adventure” advertised in the synopsis. The second part builds on the aftermath of their pseudo-vacation and manages to be rather humorous despite being from Nick’s POV — or perhaps because it was from Nick’s POV.
However, one gripe I had with this (and I’m happy to be wrong about it), is that the prologue seemed to foreshadow something worse than what actually happened which felt a little click-baity to me. It might be the case that whatever symbolism the author was attempting went completely over my head, which is why I didn’t dock a star, but the prologue felt a little awkward overall.
Other reviews
Book 1: Love Is a Stranger
Book 2: Conscious Decisions of the Heart
Book 3: The Bridge of Silver Wings
Book 4: This Other Country
Book 5: The Bruise-Black Sky
Book 6: Death's Ink-Black Shadow
Much like its predecessors, the book is split into two parts with the first consisting of the “adventure” advertised in the synopsis. The second part builds on the aftermath of their pseudo-vacation and manages to be rather humorous despite being from Nick’s POV — or perhaps because it was from Nick’s POV.
However, one gripe I had with this (and I’m happy to be wrong about it), is that the prologue seemed to foreshadow something worse than what actually happened which felt a little click-baity to me. It might be the case that whatever symbolism the author was attempting went completely over my head, which is why I didn’t dock a star, but the prologue felt a little awkward overall.
Other reviews
Book 1: Love Is a Stranger
Book 2: Conscious Decisions of the Heart
Book 3: The Bridge of Silver Wings
Book 4: This Other Country
Book 5: The Bruise-Black Sky
Book 6: Death's Ink-Black Shadow
February 25, 2017
This series never gets old for me; it just gets better. I think it's because with each book, John Wiltshire adds a little something more to the mix that keeps it so fresh. I'm not talking about more characters or different venues. He finds a way to explore a new facet of an established relationship. Even when he's putting Nik and Ben in danger of losing their lives for the umpteenth time, it's as exciting as the first time we ever saw these two get into trouble and we see the depth of what these two feel for each other. And JW's writing is so erudite and compelling. I find myself reading every last word, and re-reading at times so as not to miss a thing, or an emotion, or just for the pleasure of it. I loved how he tackled the subject of religion, and how wonderfully that was done. I also really appreciate how much humor he injected into this book, even during the most tense scenes. And can I say that I just love, love, love Squeezy - so glad that he featured so prominently in this book. Can't wait till the next book...
May 15, 2016
** edited**
Second read. Having read the entire series again, Enduring Night, still remains my absolute favorite. The series is my absolute favorite and everything else I read it seems is just something else to do in between the time before I read it again.
I think Enduring Night is my favorite of the series so far. Nik and Ben once again find themselves in a intolerable situation but its just so darn believable I couldn't do anything but just read along pissing my pants scared screaming at my Kindle DON'T DO IT but of course they do because its Nik and Ben! Its the second part of Enduring Night that made it my favorite. The fall out of the first part. I've been reading interviews with John during his blog tour where he says he doesn't really write romance..I have to disagree. There is no mistaking this is a story about two men..two life battered, strong men. The things these two say to each other, the way they feel about each other, love each other absolutely..its very romantic.
Second read. Having read the entire series again, Enduring Night, still remains my absolute favorite. The series is my absolute favorite and everything else I read it seems is just something else to do in between the time before I read it again.
I think Enduring Night is my favorite of the series so far. Nik and Ben once again find themselves in a intolerable situation but its just so darn believable I couldn't do anything but just read along pissing my pants scared screaming at my Kindle DON'T DO IT but of course they do because its Nik and Ben! Its the second part of Enduring Night that made it my favorite. The fall out of the first part. I've been reading interviews with John during his blog tour where he says he doesn't really write romance..I have to disagree. There is no mistaking this is a story about two men..two life battered, strong men. The things these two say to each other, the way they feel about each other, love each other absolutely..its very romantic.
October 25, 2015
The beginning of this was spooky, & all I could think about was omg what's going to happen, love how John plants ideas in your head then what actually happens is so left field you don't see it coming.
This book covers the whole spectrum the physical survival then their mental and emotional
Liked how the no gay sex mob were accepting by the end
Of course the Radoulf moments were awesome & the addition at the end perfect
This book covers the whole spectrum the physical survival then their mental and emotional
Liked how the no gay sex mob were accepting by the end
Of course the Radoulf moments were awesome & the addition at the end perfect
October 25, 2015
John Wiltshire has ruined me for all other authors :-) Since I started reading this series I truly have struggled to find anything to match his brilliance at creating such wonderful characters and storylines. Did I mention the wonderful characters? This series has never let up and Enduring Night is every bit as good as books 1 - 6; if I could give it more than five stars I definitely would. I miss Nik and Ben already and can't wait for the next installment. If you haven't read the series yet, you really, REALLY must.
Come. On.
Come. On.
July 4, 2018
First half: 5 stars
Second half: 1 star
The first half was absolutely wonderful. Quintessential Wiltshire writing one of my favorite series. For me, the second half went to hell in a handbasket. You must understand that religion and I do not get along. I don't discuss it and I certainly don't want to read about it. This addition to the series was by far my least favorite. I'm not sure I'll continue the series.
Second half: 1 star
The first half was absolutely wonderful. Quintessential Wiltshire writing one of my favorite series. For me, the second half went to hell in a handbasket. You must understand that religion and I do not get along. I don't discuss it and I certainly don't want to read about it. This addition to the series was by far my least favorite. I'm not sure I'll continue the series.
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