The House Of Crimson & Clover Box Set Volumes V-VIII: A New Orleans Witches Family Saga

by Sarah M. Cradit

“I recommend this book series as one of the best I've read!”“Fans of Anne Rice, Cassandra Claire, or the writing style of Frank Herbert's Dune (switching character points of view/plot lines) will enjoy her writing style, and the rich, interesting history of the Deschanel & Sullivan families.”“All the perfect ingredients for weaving a spell over this reader!”“I'm reminded of the enjoyment of Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches. This series is right up there with that one, for me.”From USA Today bestselling paranormal author Sarah M. Cradit comes The House of Crimson & Clover Volumes V-VIII, the middle four novels in the twelve-installment House of Crimson & Clover series. Included in this Midnight DynastyVolume AsunderVolume Empire of ShadowsVolume Myths of Midwinter The House of Crimson and Clover Series This is the recommended reading order for the series.Volume The Storm and the DarknessVolume ShatteredVolume The Illusions of EventideVolume BoundVolume Midnight DynastyVolume AsunderVolume Empire of ShadowsVolume Myths of MidwinterVolume The Hinterland VeilVolume The Secrets Amongst the CypressVolume Within the Garden of TwilightVolume House of Dusk, House of Dawn The Saga of Crimson & Clover A sprawling dynasty. An ancient bloodline. A world of magic and mayhem.Welcome to the Saga of Crimson & Clover, where all series within are linked but can be equally enjoyed on their own. Series List The House of Crimson & Clover Dive into the secretive, ancient, powerful world of the Deschanels & Sullivans The Midnight Dynasty Anyone can love a LaViolette. Few get the honor of dying for one. Vampires of the Merovingi From the ashes of the sorcerer kings rose an empire. The Seven Seven siblings. Seven years. Seven spellbinding novels.Crimson & Clover Collections: All your favorite C&C stories, bundled into tidy collections.Visit www.sarahmcradit.com for the latest information, news, and updates.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Witches

1434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 17, 2015

About the author

Sarah is the USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over forty contemporary and epic fantasy stories, and the creator of the Kingdom of the White Sea and Saga of Crimson & Clover universes.

Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.

Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.


Connect with Sarah:

sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit

Reviews

[Brandy Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series gets better with each book. I highly recommend getting lost in this building tale based around the Deschanels and Sullivans. The further we go the more we learn about their gifts and heritage. This tale is taking a paranormal plunge the further we go and i love every second of it.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have followed this series almost from the beginning. This four volume set will set up first time readers for the most amazing journey and will have you as addicted as the rest of us. For fans of the series, this a great way to binge read the series, relive great moments, and also makes a great gift.

When it came time to post a review for this set, I thought it only fitting I leave a review for one of my favorite stories in the first four:

The Illusions of Eventine by Sarah Cradit is a December 2013 release.
The story picks up with Nic still licking his wounds over the revelation that Oz and Ana had been intimate. As usual, he thinks everything is about him. He did take it pretty hard and his heart is broken, which is a new experience for him.
He has decided to travel to his private island, knowing it would be deserted, with some very dark thoughts. Before he even gets a chance to think about things, he discovers a woman has washed up on his beach and is nearly catatonic. Instinct takes over and he gets her to the house to take care of her. This begins a journey for Nicolas that will reveal to him his ancestry. It will explain a lot about who he is. He will realize that he is capable of love and compassion and will learn to think of others with empathy.
Of course, Nicolas's cousin, Ana will play a part in all of this. She is struggling with something that happened in Maine. She is still with Finn and loves him very much. She feels better after clearing the air between them, but she still thinks she is toxic to him and must end things.
As Ana comes home to New Orleans she finds herself immersed in Nic's situation with Mercy, the woman he encountered on the beach. Little do they know that the whole thing was orchestrated by someone that is watching their every move. The family will be stunned to learn of their heritage and Ana in particular will see her life take on a whole new direction she never dreamed of.

This chapter in the Crimson and Clover series takes on a new direction from the previous installments. This series has the potential to go off in so many wonderful directions. Each book is better than the last. This one is the best one in the series to date, and I love all the other ones too.
Nicolas is still Nicolas- but he will be challenged in a way he never dreamed. Ana is still tormented by her past mistakes and whatever secrets she holds, and Oz is still the stable best friend with a troubled wife. The three of them will learn to put the past to rest while their lives become more complicated. Mercy is a new character and is central to this story. You will really like her and the number she does on Nicolas.
Another new character is Aidrik . He will become central in Ana's life.
The focus of this novel deals more in the paranormal realm. I felt it had the tone of a fantasy novel or science fiction leanings, but it would be up to the reader's perceptions on that. It was just how I felt about these new characters and their connections to the Deschanel family.
Ana finds she is in the position of still being in love with Finn and being bonded with Aidrik. The new book will explore that story in detail. I am really looking forward to that one!

[Lenora Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

The trouble with getting a box set for my kindle is I never stopped reading between books. I actually read the whole set in two days. Pulling my nose out of the kindle came only when I got to the end of Vol IV!

I don't normally read modern gothic, or gothic at all, but I thought I'd give this series a try, and I was not disappointed. I've already bought Volumes 5 & 6!

The first book, The Illusions of Eventide almost lost me at the beginning. It starts off with a primo #1 jerk about to off himself. Obviously, he didn't, as he was telling the story, but still.... Because I was settled on the sofa, with a fresh cup of coffee and a snuggly cat, I decided to keep reading, and was introduced to a cast of characters that were and are some of the most interesting folk around. By the time I finished Book 1, I could hardly wait to get into Book II to find out what happened. Alas, Book II went in a different, though connected direction. I'm hoping Books 5 & 6 bring us full circle and tie up the loose ends ;-)

These stories are told by the characters, each chapter is by a different character, some chapters go back in time, most are modern. I enjoy this style of story telling, and had no problem keeping up as Ms. Cradit did a great job of telling us who was speaking, chapter-by-chapter. The world of gothic New Orleans is expertly crafted as the families Deschanel and Sullivan work to solve, and end, the Curse their ancestress, Brigitte placed upon them shortly after the War Between the States.

It has been many years since I've read Anne Rice, and I'm not sure how accurate my memory of her books are, and these books take place primarily in New Orleans and surrounding area, but I am reminded of Ms. Rice's books – in a positive way. Make no mistake, Ms. Cradit tells her own story, and she does it well. But, if you are a fan of Anne Rice, I truly think you will enjoy these books.

Volumes 5 & 6 await in my Kindle, so please forgive me for not writing more here, I have important words to read, curses to end, friends who are calling for my attention.

[Buffie Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely blown away with this series. I am so excited the folks who are getting the box set, don't have to wait like the rest ofHoly hot flash Batman! I have read a plethora of books from Sarah Cradit, but few prepared me for the deliciousness this book holds. We are met with our good friend, Cyler. Now, I mention his name, as we meet him in some of the later books of the Crimson and Clover series. Ms. Cradit focuses on his entry into the Menagerie. What is the Menagerie, you ask? Imagine a place full of lush flora and frons. A gorgeous place full of crimsons and golds, adorned with the most beautiful people. Imagine a place where your deepest, darkest, most secret fantasy could come true. No matter how taboo, you can find it at the Menagerie. But with every fantasy comes a warning: watch out for the queen. You never want to cross the queen! This delicious tale of lust, love, and fantasy sweeps you off to a world so delectable, you may never want to return. I warn you, you may just want to make sure you have your loved one close...or a fresh pair of batteries! us ydid, for a new book to come out. It's torture! These books are so incredibly well written, you forget you are reading a fictional piece. You feel like you are smack dab in the middle of the Deschanel's living room.

From the first page, you will know you are soon to fall in love. Every character is incredibly written with distinct characteristics, traits, and lifestyles. However, with everyone being so different, they blend like a giant melting pot. You see, there are the Deschanels and the Sullivans. The Sullivans are a long line of lawyers with many a generation in the business. The Deschanels are a wee bit diffrent. They are born with gifts, even they have a hard time understanding.

Come visit Ophelie, the plantation Nic runs. Meet all the characters. Fall deep in love! And be amazed by the specialties they have! Happy reading!

[Stephenee · Rating 5 out of 5]

* I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review. *

I have read all of author Sarah M. Cradit's books, novella's and short stories and I loved them all! It would be impossible to choose a favorite story, character or book and I am not even going to try at this point!! Her books are well written, the plot flows so quickly that you reach the end of the story well before you are ready and without realizing how much time has gone by since you were enchanted, committed and flung into the world of the Sullivan's, Deschanel's and their friends. You become a part of their lives as you are reading the books and think about the characters long after you have finished reading the book. You continue to wonder what will happen next as you start to write the next book in your head, but no matter how good you think you are it will never come close to author Sarah M. Cradit's visions, writing and epic (yet sad) death scenes. I am always on the edge of my seat waiting for the next one to come out and this set is no exception to any of that. Do yourself a favor and get started on this amazing series by an equally amazing author!! You won't be sorry (except for the chores that don't get done because you MUST read these books!!) - ENJOY!!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've thoroughly enjoyed the detailed development of characters and their relationships in this series thus far. Though the complicated world the Deschanels live in is full of suffering and heartache, as a reader you are drawn to them, invested in the outcome of their quest for resolution and peace. Despite the family being huge and main characters many, the author gives you an intimate view of each of their personalities, thoughts and feelings. The twists and turns keep your brain guessing and your emotions running high (and low... *spoiler alert* you will be crushed at some point). The Louisiana backdrop and colorful language are captivating and realistic. And it isn't often that I find a fantasy romance series that offers something new, in this case a combination of multiple somethings new. This was a surprisingly refreshing read and I look forward to seeing how the story unfolds... and hopefully how the stars align.

[Allegra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I honestly can't decide how I feel about these books. The characters and settings were so rich, I could nearly smell the streets of New Orleans, and the story is interestingly unusual. I found myself continuing to read because I wanted to know more about each of the many many many characters.

On the other hand, at times there were so many characters, I wasn't quite sure what the point was or where the story was going. At times, it felt the author just got bored of a certain storyline and cast it aside with no explanation.

The writing got much better around the third book or so. The author had a foreword about (I believe) her husband passing or something like that and suddenly the writing seemed to hold more empathy and pain of certain characters was not treated as flippantly was it was in the first book. I believe the author matured over the course of this box set, and that has me thinking that perhaps, if I have time, I will come back to this and read more of this series.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely loved this series and can't wait to find out what happens next., This book forces you to experience every emotion possible as you get to know the Deschanels and their extended family. We learn of the Curse that takes lives in mass throughout their generations. We learn of the special skills and abilities of the family. They are rich in finances and family spirit which only grows stronger thru their trials. The writer does a marvelous job of weaving a tale you can't put down and makes you eager to learn more and read more without caring how long it is. Each page makes you speed to the next to see what new thing is revealed. An excellent read!

[Melannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deschanel, a powerful name often heard in the streets of Louisiana. Many stories are told of the strange abilities and happenings where the Deschanel's are concerned. None come close to the truth. The House of Crimson & Clover is a spellbinding tale of love, power, betrayal, and a curse that spans generations. These characters beg to be read and refuse to be forgotten. Do you dare?

[Terri Calvert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Series

What an exciting storyline. The love, the tragedies. The family ties. I have been swept along through the first four books and will start the fifth in a few moments. I'm reminded of the enjoyment of Anne Rice's Mayfair Witches. This series is right up there with that one, for me.

[Lin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal, page turner!

I stayed awake late into the night for a week straight reading the first 4 volumes. Old world magick, meets modern day New Orleans. I love how it is written through first person for every character. You really get to know and root for each character throughout the series. I am already searching for volume five as soon as I'm finished this review.

[Suzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great storytelling!

I loved this boxed set! The families and the different powers in each member are fascinating. Each book brought more to the story and left me wanting more....I read it all in one day! On to the next book in the series now!

[Elizabeth Burgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

*received for an honest review.
Cradit lays an excellent foundation in the first four volumes of the House of Crimson and Clover series. In each book, the reader is thrusted into a world of magic, mystery, power, and intrigue. Read the volumes in order and prepare a ride until any other.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series!

This series draws you in so much so that you can't put in down. The family story is complex and long. Beginning thousands of years ago. This is an interesting and compelling series. I recommend this book series as one of the best I've read!

[Kamini Mehta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great!

I really enjoyed these books. Lots of intrigue. Very well written. A lot of characters to keep sorted out, but it stays interesting.

[Michelle Pankonien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Excellent story telling. I have enjoyed each story I have read and look forward to the next.
You won't regret this series.

[Karin Corneau · Rating 5 out of 5]

The House of Crimson & Clover was a fantastic read. This was a case of judging a book by its cover. It was also a free download from BookBub, so I thought, what the hell, especially since it had the first 4 books.

All I can say is that I truly enjoyed every minute of reading this series. I think what i like most is that it is told from different prespectives, so each chapter is someone elses viewpoint & story line. It sounds like it might have been confusing, but it really wasn't. I fell in love with all of the characters and I am now going to go on a hunt looking for the next few in the series.

The only thing I didn't like about the book was that after book 1, Nicholas & Mercy all but disappear. Nicholas was mentioned once in awhile, but Mercy almost never. Even though ALL of the family features in this serial, I really wish Nicholas was in it more. He really is one of my favorite characters overall.

So, in a nutshell, I would highly recommend reading this series. It is a bit different from other paranormal worlds, but not by much. A fantastic read that kept me hooked from page 1

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first introduction to this author and this series was through the prequel books (the 7). I found each of those to be reasonably detailed, so I assumed the main series would be as well. So far it has not been, the characters feel fairly 2 dimensional, and there is clearly information missing from their back stories. However, since there are still many books left in the series I’m hoping the gaps will be filled.
Also, these characters are not necessarily likable. That’s not a criticism, just a warning to people trying to decide if they want to read the series. They also tend to do things that don’t make sense.
Finally, trigger warnings for rape and violence.

[KATHY · Rating 4 out of 5]

The House of Crimson & Clover - Books l-lV

I have already written a review on this box set, which is already in Amazon Review. Not sure why it didn't stay in my iPad. A great set of stories about a cursed family. My favorite characters are Amelia, Jacob and Colleen. There is much tragedy, sadness and death throughout the pages of these 4 books. But there is also, happiness, redemption, solidarity, protectiveness, kindness, charity and love most of all. Can't wait to read the next box set of Crimson and Clover.
Kathy Barber Doyle - 12/23/2019

[Myra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've enjoyed books written by Sarah M. Cradit in the past, but this series is not something I would recommend. The majority of the characters are simply not likeable. The family is extremely dysfunctional, with the female characters skipping from bed-to-bed, the male characters weak, shades of incest, and uninteresting fantasy storylines. I am continuing the second volume, and I've invested time into this series, but I may not finish the books. The annoying characters don't have much redeeming qualities and I may be better served finding another book.

[Caitlyn Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is odd since it’s like 4 novellas essentially. It was good but not as good as I wanted it to be. I think it started out real strong but maybe was rushed towards the end. I would like to know more backstory on some of the characters that I think were trying to give a “surprise” factor. I don’t think I’ll read the rest of the series but it was a good book to read before bed through the summer.

[Kimberly LaFleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t wait to read another

I love this story. Sarah Cradit has woven a masterful tale of a powerful halfing family steeped in mystery and romance. It’s a great read. It’s set primarily in New Orleans which gives it even more of a mysterious feel. Don’t pass up this bundle of four books. It’s worth every penny.

[L · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a OK story. Found it hard to connect with the characters. I didn't like the main female character who was insipid. I find it annoying when I kept getting told how wonderful the main woman character was and this was why all males fall instantly in love with her when there is nothing to show why this is the case.

[Alison hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

this series has been a pleasure

I have enjoyed this series for the last couple of months. Working my way through & developing a love of the characters. I can usually sense a plot twist or see stories coming together but Sarah has created a space where I am still surprised which is lovely.

[afranson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sad tale

Singularly frustrating and depressing. Drama that is dark, sappy and overly drawn out. I found myself skimming to get to the end before I was tempt to off myself. Life is sad enough without reading about these people's depressed lives with hardly a glimmer of light.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful series

If you like fantasy, this is the series for you. Great characters and a storyline that makes you want to keep reading