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Merry Gentry #7
Swallowing Darkness
I am Meredith, princess of faerie, wielder of the hands of Flesh and Blood, and at long last, I am with child–twins, fathered by my royal guard. Though my uncle, Taranis, King of Light and Illusion, claims that he is the true father since he abducted me from my home, betrayed, and defiled me. And now he has branded my guards as a threat to my unborn children.
Bearing an heir has placed me halfway to my aunt’s throne, that much closer to my reign over the Unseelie Court–and well ahead of her son, my cousin Cel, in this race. Now I must stay alive to see my children born and claim my place as queen.
But not all in faerie are pleased with the news, and conspirators from every court in the realm plot against me and mine. They seek to strip my guards, my lovers, from me by poisoned word or cold steel. But I still have supporters, and even friends, among the goblins and the sluagh, who will stand by me.
I am Meredith Nic Essus, and those who would defy and destroy me are destined to pay a terrible price—for I am truly my father’s daughter. To protect what is mine, I will sacrifice anything—even if it means waging a great battle against my darkest enemies and making the most momentous decision ever made as princess of faerie.
Bearing an heir has placed me halfway to my aunt’s throne, that much closer to my reign over the Unseelie Court–and well ahead of her son, my cousin Cel, in this race. Now I must stay alive to see my children born and claim my place as queen.
But not all in faerie are pleased with the news, and conspirators from every court in the realm plot against me and mine. They seek to strip my guards, my lovers, from me by poisoned word or cold steel. But I still have supporters, and even friends, among the goblins and the sluagh, who will stand by me.
I am Meredith Nic Essus, and those who would defy and destroy me are destined to pay a terrible price—for I am truly my father’s daughter. To protect what is mine, I will sacrifice anything—even if it means waging a great battle against my darkest enemies and making the most momentous decision ever made as princess of faerie.
365 pages, Hardcover
First published November 4, 2008
544 people are currently reading
7832 people want to read
About the author
Laurell K. Hamilton
422 books25.7k followersLaurell K. Hamilton is one of the leading writers of paranormal fiction. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Hamilton writes the popular Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter novels and the Meredith Gentry series. She is also the creator of a bestselling comic book series based on her Anita Blake novels and published by Marvel Comics. Hamilton is a full-time writer and lives in the suburbs of St. Louis with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 848 reviews
January 16, 2009
So here's the thing. I tend to cut the Merry Gentry books a little more slack than I do the Anita Blake books, possibly because the Merry books never pretended to be anything other than what they are. So while the power-ups and addition of new men would bother me in Anita-verse, I tend to roll with it in Merry-verse.
And yes, she does add new men, even though she is finally pregnant and should have narrowed her man-harem down the the six (yes, six) fathers. However! Sex is kept to a minimum, and there is actual plot and intrigue and a battle. Of course, Merry takes a break in the middle of the battle to go have a goblin threesome, but if she didn't do that, it just wouldn't be LKH, amirite?
All the typical LKH flaws are there, don't get me wrong. There are repetitive descriptions, bishonen faeries with hair swirling around their ankles, the Goddess giving Merry powers for no good reason, and Merry being utterly beloved by the sithens and getting crowns all over the place. But Merry does make choices (crown of Unseelie court or Frost? I'll let you guess), and we do finally get some resolution on crazy ass Cel and what Andais' game really was.
In fact- this would have been a good point to end the series, and indeed the last chapter has a epilogue feel to it. But I've heard through the grapevine that there will be more Merry books. Ah, well. I'm curious to see the babies at least. Will one have Doyle's dark skin? Galen's green, shorter (gasp!) hair? Sholto's tentacles? Stay tuned, I guess.
And yes, she does add new men, even though she is finally pregnant and should have narrowed her man-harem down the the six (yes, six) fathers. However! Sex is kept to a minimum, and there is actual plot and intrigue and a battle. Of course, Merry takes a break in the middle of the battle to go have a goblin threesome, but if she didn't do that, it just wouldn't be LKH, amirite?
All the typical LKH flaws are there, don't get me wrong. There are repetitive descriptions, bishonen faeries with hair swirling around their ankles, the Goddess giving Merry powers for no good reason, and Merry being utterly beloved by the sithens and getting crowns all over the place. But Merry does make choices (crown of Unseelie court or Frost? I'll let you guess), and we do finally get some resolution on crazy ass Cel and what Andais' game really was.
In fact- this would have been a good point to end the series, and indeed the last chapter has a epilogue feel to it. But I've heard through the grapevine that there will be more Merry books. Ah, well. I'm curious to see the babies at least. Will one have Doyle's dark skin? Galen's green, shorter (gasp!) hair? Sholto's tentacles? Stay tuned, I guess.
November 7, 2008
Wow. Just, wow. This was probably one of, if not the best book in the Merry Gentry series.
I dont want to give any spoilers away, so Im gonna make this review brief.
There is a TON of action in this book. Lots of magic, and unbelievable circumstances... and somehow, Merry doesnt seem quite so helpless in this book. In fact, she pretty much kicks ass!! She's bold and commanding, and acts much more like a Queen should act.
I also didn't feel like I was constantly waiting for all the s**t to hit the fan. More good things happened in this book, to help offset the bad. I also felt less hopeless as I was reading this and more hopeful... something I haven't felt for some time while reading a Merry Gentry book.
I sure hope this isnt the end of the series... I want it to keep going, and going, and going....
I dont want to give any spoilers away, so Im gonna make this review brief.
There is a TON of action in this book. Lots of magic, and unbelievable circumstances... and somehow, Merry doesnt seem quite so helpless in this book. In fact, she pretty much kicks ass!! She's bold and commanding, and acts much more like a Queen should act.
I also didn't feel like I was constantly waiting for all the s**t to hit the fan. More good things happened in this book, to help offset the bad. I also felt less hopeless as I was reading this and more hopeful... something I haven't felt for some time while reading a Merry Gentry book.
I sure hope this isnt the end of the series... I want it to keep going, and going, and going....
February 25, 2009
Loved this book, loved this series. What a fascinating world LKH has created. I was disappointed with the lack of sex in this book though. I was glad she finally had sex with the yummy goblin twins Holly and Ash but that was it for sex in this book. Poor Doyle never did get his blow job. Why is it necessary to start a hot sex scene and then have them all stop and talk? Then they start up again, only to stop and talk some more. Fuck already!! Some of her guard have gone without for centuries. I doubt they want to have long conversations when they're all naked and horny. I know I don't want them to be having long conversations. Shut up and have sex. Talk later.
October 15, 2025
The last book ended on such a sad tone, this one was a rush through and through.
The wild hunt, Faerie crowning Meredith (TWICE!), Ash and Holly getting their powers, all these events, some of them joyous, some incredibly sad. I'd have to say, this one is probably one of my favourite books in the series. I think partly because Frost is not in it. He is beautiful and Merry loves him, but just reading about him is exhausting. He is emotionally draining and I don't know how Merry can continue being with him sometimes.
I cannot believe what happened to Gran. To be honest, I sob every time I get to this scene. Especially because she is Merry's mother, more real than her biological one.
I have to admit, I quite like Sholto and Mistral as characters and I am happy that they are some of the fathers of Merry's babies. I think they are quite underrated. I like Sholto especially and I love seeing him as a King of the sluagh.
Can't wait to get to the next book and their adventures in the human world.
The wild hunt, Faerie crowning Meredith (TWICE!), Ash and Holly getting their powers, all these events, some of them joyous, some incredibly sad. I'd have to say, this one is probably one of my favourite books in the series. I think partly because Frost is not in it. He is beautiful and Merry loves him, but just reading about him is exhausting. He is emotionally draining and I don't know how Merry can continue being with him sometimes.
I cannot believe what happened to Gran. To be honest, I sob every time I get to this scene. Especially because she is Merry's mother, more real than her biological one.
I have to admit, I quite like Sholto and Mistral as characters and I am happy that they are some of the fathers of Merry's babies. I think they are quite underrated. I like Sholto especially and I love seeing him as a King of the sluagh.
Can't wait to get to the next book and their adventures in the human world.
Read
November 26, 2008Laurell K. Hamilton managed to write a book with only two sex scenes, both of which were brief.
I am THRILLED that she has begun to listen to some of the fan feedback I've seen. I enjoyed this book more than I've enjoyed any of her last 6 or 7 releases, mainly because I managed to find a plot. I've been reading her books for years and had almost lost hope that she had lost the original magic that I enjoyed. Now, I find myself becoming hopeful that I will enjoy more of her books in the future.
While I enjoyed the book, I only could give it three stars because of the title. Swallowing Darkness?? Seriously? Who names a book after the blow job scene? In this book she allows the series to move forward, which includes a few major deaths and discoveries. I would think that there would be better things to name a book than a dirty pun.
I am THRILLED that she has begun to listen to some of the fan feedback I've seen. I enjoyed this book more than I've enjoyed any of her last 6 or 7 releases, mainly because I managed to find a plot. I've been reading her books for years and had almost lost hope that she had lost the original magic that I enjoyed. Now, I find myself becoming hopeful that I will enjoy more of her books in the future.
While I enjoyed the book, I only could give it three stars because of the title. Swallowing Darkness?? Seriously? Who names a book after the blow job scene? In this book she allows the series to move forward, which includes a few major deaths and discoveries. I would think that there would be better things to name a book than a dirty pun.
July 3, 2023
Ponder if you will for a moment these things... 1) The vast majority of Laurell K. Hamilton's Meredith Gentry series has been more sex than plot (a recent book had a 90+ page sex scene); 2) One of the main characters in the series is nicknamed Darkness; and 3) The latest, seventh, book in the series is
Swallowing Darkness
... Combining those three facts, what would you think was awaiting you if you picked up this latest novel?
Surprisingly, the first sex scene doesn't even begin until page 150, and though Meredith starts doing what's necessary to bring about the title of the novel, it never actually happens. They get interrupted by Sholto, king of the sluagh offering one of his tentacles to pleasure her (I said the only thing I could think of when a man offers me oral sex. I held my hand out toward him and said "Yes.") and the fact that the other man in the room, Mistral, takes this moment to admit that he was once a death god. The only other sex scene in the entire book (I know! I too was surprised at the restraint Ms. Hamilton showed this time around) did end with half of the title coming true. It just wasn't her Darkness, however. In order to bring them their due power, Merry joins simultaneously with goblin twins Ash and Holly. Ash is doing things the normal way, while his twin is changing the title of the book to Swallowing Holly. I wonder if that was a publishing typo. Hmmm.
Yes, the above paragraph may be a little raunchy for a book review, but if you're reading a review of any of these books, you're not above it and you can't fool me into thinking that you are. With only 25 of the 365 page novel taken up with sex, there is actually a semi-plot to be found here. Picking up where the last book Lick of Frost left off, Meredith finds herself in the hospital after being raped by her Uncle, King Taranis of the Seelie Court, finally pregnant with twins (each baby has three genetic fathers). Based on an earlier promise, Merry is now within her rights to claim the crown as Queen of the Unseelie Court.
Nothing is ever that easy with the fey, however. Merry and her band of bodyguards/lovers/kings/fathers of her unborn children make the decision to leave Faerie and move back to L.A., where they believe they'll be safer from the conspiracies against their lives.
Ok, ok... so I didn't say it was a great plot. All I said that there was more plot than sex for once. Unfortunately, even with a plot, I didn't like Meredith too much and since the book is written from her perspective, it kind of ruins everything else. I found myself feeling very sorry for any of her men that weren't her two favorite. Many times those other four feel left out because of her actions and reactions, and yet they'll never be allowed to pursue other women, fey or human. Now tell me how that can be fair or right? To be fair, that line of thought has nothing to do with the book at all. Just a little something that irked me.
The book reads very quickly and if you've read the first six you'll probably already have read this one anyways. The end of this one wraps almost everything up in a neat little package and one of those despicable epilogue chapters telling you where everyone is and what they're doing. This conveniently allows Ms. Hamilton to cease writing this series, or the option of creating new monsters and conflicts in the next misnamed book.
Two stars just because there was actually a plot. It's akin to giving points on a test for the child remembering to put his or her name on the top.
Surprisingly, the first sex scene doesn't even begin until page 150, and though Meredith starts doing what's necessary to bring about the title of the novel, it never actually happens. They get interrupted by Sholto, king of the sluagh offering one of his tentacles to pleasure her (I said the only thing I could think of when a man offers me oral sex. I held my hand out toward him and said "Yes.") and the fact that the other man in the room, Mistral, takes this moment to admit that he was once a death god. The only other sex scene in the entire book (I know! I too was surprised at the restraint Ms. Hamilton showed this time around) did end with half of the title coming true. It just wasn't her Darkness, however. In order to bring them their due power, Merry joins simultaneously with goblin twins Ash and Holly. Ash is doing things the normal way, while his twin is changing the title of the book to Swallowing Holly. I wonder if that was a publishing typo. Hmmm.
Yes, the above paragraph may be a little raunchy for a book review, but if you're reading a review of any of these books, you're not above it and you can't fool me into thinking that you are. With only 25 of the 365 page novel taken up with sex, there is actually a semi-plot to be found here. Picking up where the last book Lick of Frost left off, Meredith finds herself in the hospital after being raped by her Uncle, King Taranis of the Seelie Court, finally pregnant with twins (each baby has three genetic fathers). Based on an earlier promise, Merry is now within her rights to claim the crown as Queen of the Unseelie Court.
Nothing is ever that easy with the fey, however. Merry and her band of bodyguards/lovers/kings/fathers of her unborn children make the decision to leave Faerie and move back to L.A., where they believe they'll be safer from the conspiracies against their lives.
Ok, ok... so I didn't say it was a great plot. All I said that there was more plot than sex for once. Unfortunately, even with a plot, I didn't like Meredith too much and since the book is written from her perspective, it kind of ruins everything else. I found myself feeling very sorry for any of her men that weren't her two favorite. Many times those other four feel left out because of her actions and reactions, and yet they'll never be allowed to pursue other women, fey or human. Now tell me how that can be fair or right? To be fair, that line of thought has nothing to do with the book at all. Just a little something that irked me.
The book reads very quickly and if you've read the first six you'll probably already have read this one anyways. The end of this one wraps almost everything up in a neat little package and one of those despicable epilogue chapters telling you where everyone is and what they're doing. This conveniently allows Ms. Hamilton to cease writing this series, or the option of creating new monsters and conflicts in the next misnamed book.
Two stars just because there was actually a plot. It's akin to giving points on a test for the child remembering to put his or her name on the top.
February 4, 2010
It is extremely difficult to write a review for a book without incorporating spoilers for those who have not read the entire series. However, I am determined to do my best because Meredith Gentry novels deserve to find a home on many new readers' bookshelves. Of course, I recommend starting with the first in the series, A Kiss of Shadows (Meredith Gentry, #1), but future readers should note that Swallowing Darkness (Meredith Gentry, #7) surpasses all the previous books in the Gentry saga.
Hamilton proved she could blend multiple genres with A Kiss of Shadows (Meredith Gentry, #1). She continues that tradition with this recent title, which has action, adventure, fantasy, romance, lore, death, sex, and a strong, independent heroine.
The most important aspect of this book is Merry Gentry. It is rare to find such an unique woman in a series and still remember her months after reading the books. Her strength of character, as well as the strength of her magic, make her a compelling protagonist. In addition, Merry has an entourage of male supporting characters who accentuate her nobility and dedication to love. Even though there are many that Merry loves and shares herself with, the reader feels the sincerity in the relationship between each person. Merry's guards cannot be forgotten because Hamilton has a gift at creating unique men who are kings in their own right.
In this specific book, the reader deals with the aftermaths of rape, the early stages of pregnancy, multiple deaths, the wild chase of the hunt, and further development in Merry's relationship with Sholto, Doyle, and the Goblin Twins (to name a few individuals). Despite the intense issues Merry has to deal with, she remains poised, resolved, and strong. No one can break her spirit, and I only wish that more women in the real world could be this assured of their self-worth.
The world of faerie that Hamilton creates is one in which the goddess reigns supreme. This book ends on a high note as some of Merry's foes from earlier in the series are finally destroyed. After all, Merry can only play the diplomat to a point. Once the life of her unborn children and lovers are threatened, she plays to kill.
The book, like most in the series, has an intense pace. By the time readers reach the end, they will beg for more, especially after Merry's final decision. What will be the fate of Merry, her twins and lovers, and the Seelie and Unseelie courts? Fans will just have to wait for the next installment of a truly unforgettable and captivating series: Divine Misdemeanors A Novel.
Hamilton proved she could blend multiple genres with A Kiss of Shadows (Meredith Gentry, #1). She continues that tradition with this recent title, which has action, adventure, fantasy, romance, lore, death, sex, and a strong, independent heroine.
The most important aspect of this book is Merry Gentry. It is rare to find such an unique woman in a series and still remember her months after reading the books. Her strength of character, as well as the strength of her magic, make her a compelling protagonist. In addition, Merry has an entourage of male supporting characters who accentuate her nobility and dedication to love. Even though there are many that Merry loves and shares herself with, the reader feels the sincerity in the relationship between each person. Merry's guards cannot be forgotten because Hamilton has a gift at creating unique men who are kings in their own right.
In this specific book, the reader deals with the aftermaths of rape, the early stages of pregnancy, multiple deaths, the wild chase of the hunt, and further development in Merry's relationship with Sholto, Doyle, and the Goblin Twins (to name a few individuals). Despite the intense issues Merry has to deal with, she remains poised, resolved, and strong. No one can break her spirit, and I only wish that more women in the real world could be this assured of their self-worth.
The world of faerie that Hamilton creates is one in which the goddess reigns supreme. This book ends on a high note as some of Merry's foes from earlier in the series are finally destroyed. After all, Merry can only play the diplomat to a point. Once the life of her unborn children and lovers are threatened, she plays to kill.
The book, like most in the series, has an intense pace. By the time readers reach the end, they will beg for more, especially after Merry's final decision. What will be the fate of Merry, her twins and lovers, and the Seelie and Unseelie courts? Fans will just have to wait for the next installment of a truly unforgettable and captivating series: Divine Misdemeanors A Novel.
December 5, 2022
Review at book 9
November 21, 2008
Swallowing Darkness is the seventh book in Laurell K. Hamilton's Meredith Gentry series, which follows the events in the life of Princess Meredith NicEssus, who has finally beat out her cousin Cel in the race for the Unseelie throne by becoming pregnant with twins. However, now she has to contend with (more) assassination attempts and bring (more) power back to faerie as well as deal with the "loss" of Frost.
(Yes, "loss" gets to be put in quotations marks, because I never for one second thought that Frost was going to remain a stag.)
There are some high points in the novel, namely Merry doing queenly things and acting like a responsible leader. She struggles between acting like a queen and stopping in the middle of battle to worry about one of her lovers being wounded, which I thought was nice.
To be honest, I thought that this novel was the final one in the series. We found out who Prince Essus's killer was. The issue with Cel and his crazy has been...resolved. But apparently this isn't the last novel in the series, and I can't say that I'm looking forward to the future novels, mainly because a lot of what was intriguing about the series is over, and we all have left are a lot of what I don't like about it. Part of me has faith that LKH will come up with something, but a lot of this series involves the same ingredients just stirred up in different ways. Men with angsty pasts. Wounded male egos. Faerie powers/knowledge/objects arising at oh-so convenient times. Merry winning people over with fairness and acceptance. Merry constantly talking about her (tragic!) mixed heritage. Combine ingredients, bring to boil, reduce heat, and allow to simmer. Serve while hot. It's just gotten a little old. I got through this this book fairly quickly because LKH's writing style flows nicely and is easy to read, and her storytelling is always straightforward, but there was nothing really riveting about it.
(Yes, "loss" gets to be put in quotations marks, because I never for one second thought that Frost was going to remain a stag.)
There are some high points in the novel, namely Merry doing queenly things and acting like a responsible leader. She struggles between acting like a queen and stopping in the middle of battle to worry about one of her lovers being wounded, which I thought was nice.
To be honest, I thought that this novel was the final one in the series. We found out who Prince Essus's killer was. The issue with Cel and his crazy has been...resolved. But apparently this isn't the last novel in the series, and I can't say that I'm looking forward to the future novels, mainly because a lot of what was intriguing about the series is over, and we all have left are a lot of what I don't like about it. Part of me has faith that LKH will come up with something, but a lot of this series involves the same ingredients just stirred up in different ways. Men with angsty pasts. Wounded male egos. Faerie powers/knowledge/objects arising at oh-so convenient times. Merry winning people over with fairness and acceptance. Merry constantly talking about her (tragic!) mixed heritage. Combine ingredients, bring to boil, reduce heat, and allow to simmer. Serve while hot. It's just gotten a little old. I got through this this book fairly quickly because LKH's writing style flows nicely and is easy to read, and her storytelling is always straightforward, but there was nothing really riveting about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2020
3.5 Stars
Ok I think this may be the best book out of the series so far. Cause shit finally went down! Also, side note, I apparently read these books when they came out but I had no memory of this at all.
Now that she's pregnant, Merry is in line to inherit the throne. That was her Aunt's ruling after all, but as we all know, Auntie Andais is one crazy bitch, so of course nothing is safe for our dear friends. Oh and we can't forget her psychotic son, Cel.
This book was full of magic coming back and people trying to kill Merry's men - mostly Doyle. I do really enjoy reading about the magic flowing back into faerie and how the Goddess chooses who to restore powers to and what powers they get. And it's still crazy to me that people oppose Merry still - do they not see that she has the blessing of the Goddess? But I guess some prejudices are too strong and no one really likes change.
The way this book ended could have been the series end. I felt that it answered all the questions and really wrapped everything up in a satisfying way. The fact that there are at least 2 more books has me worried that Hamilton is just now going to drag out the series until it's nothing but sex on every page like how she did with the Anita Blake series. Maybe she just doesn't know when to stop?
Ok I think this may be the best book out of the series so far. Cause shit finally went down! Also, side note, I apparently read these books when they came out but I had no memory of this at all.
Now that she's pregnant, Merry is in line to inherit the throne. That was her Aunt's ruling after all, but as we all know, Auntie Andais is one crazy bitch, so of course nothing is safe for our dear friends. Oh and we can't forget her psychotic son, Cel.
This book was full of magic coming back and people trying to kill Merry's men - mostly Doyle. I do really enjoy reading about the magic flowing back into faerie and how the Goddess chooses who to restore powers to and what powers they get. And it's still crazy to me that people oppose Merry still - do they not see that she has the blessing of the Goddess? But I guess some prejudices are too strong and no one really likes change.
The way this book ended could have been the series end. I felt that it answered all the questions and really wrapped everything up in a satisfying way. The fact that there are at least 2 more books has me worried that Hamilton is just now going to drag out the series until it's nothing but sex on every page like how she did with the Anita Blake series. Maybe she just doesn't know when to stop?
November 5, 2008
Looking for a kickass heroine? "Swallowing Darkness" by Laurell K. Hamilton gives us a pregnant heroine with awesome powers and raging hormones! How can I not love it?
Seriously, in this 7th book of the 'Meredith Gentry' series Meredith is finally pregnant...with twins no less. But instead of becoming softer Merry has had it with her enemies. No more bargaining or backing down. She will do whatever she needs to protect her mates and her unborn children. All I can say is...about time.
In previous books in this series Merry has been reactive, now she's going proactive and I loved the whole book. If you haven't read any of this series, don't start with this book as you'll just end up confused.
Merry is half fae and if she can survive to give birth, she's the new ruler of the seelie court. Her aunt, the current insane ruler, set a challenge between her own son and Merry. The first to get pregnant and begat an heir will win the crown. Of course, her aunt is a totally insane, bloodthirsty, sexually sadistic monarch whose whim is law. And her son is an apple who didn't fall far from the tree. So Merry is caught between these two with pretty much no choice but win or die.
That's the basic premise of these books, but there is so much more. I should certainly warn you that I consider these books erotica as there's a LOT of sex and most of it isn't exactly tame or vanilla! But this series is also a really engrossing fantasy tale...for adults. My only gripe is now I have to wait another year for the next chapter in Merry's life.
Seriously, in this 7th book of the 'Meredith Gentry' series Meredith is finally pregnant...with twins no less. But instead of becoming softer Merry has had it with her enemies. No more bargaining or backing down. She will do whatever she needs to protect her mates and her unborn children. All I can say is...about time.
In previous books in this series Merry has been reactive, now she's going proactive and I loved the whole book. If you haven't read any of this series, don't start with this book as you'll just end up confused.
Merry is half fae and if she can survive to give birth, she's the new ruler of the seelie court. Her aunt, the current insane ruler, set a challenge between her own son and Merry. The first to get pregnant and begat an heir will win the crown. Of course, her aunt is a totally insane, bloodthirsty, sexually sadistic monarch whose whim is law. And her son is an apple who didn't fall far from the tree. So Merry is caught between these two with pretty much no choice but win or die.
That's the basic premise of these books, but there is so much more. I should certainly warn you that I consider these books erotica as there's a LOT of sex and most of it isn't exactly tame or vanilla! But this series is also a really engrossing fantasy tale...for adults. My only gripe is now I have to wait another year for the next chapter in Merry's life.
June 9, 2018
this book was amazing and i would rate it better than the others, no matter what merry is going through or how hard she has it, you still have to feel alottle jealous over all the hunky men she has at her beck and call and you just want to trade places with her, but cant wakt to get strted on the next one xx
happy reading!! xx
happy reading!! xx
January 30, 2010
Synopsis:
I am Meredith, princess of faerie, wielder of the hands of Flesh and Blood, and at long last, I am with child–
twins, fathered by my royal guard. Though my uncle, Taranis, King of Light and Illusion, claims that he is the
true father since he abducted me from my home, betrayed, and defiled me. And now he has branded my
guards as a threat to my unborn children.
Bearing an heir has placed me halfway to my aunt’s throne, that much closer to my reign over the Unseelie
Court–and well ahead of her son, my cousin Cel, in this race. Now I must stay alive to see my children born
and claim my place as queen.
But not all in faerie are pleased with the news, and conspirators from every court in the realm plot against
me and mine. They seek to strip my guards, my lovers, from me by poisoned word or cold steel. But I still
have supporters, and even friends, among the goblins and the sluagh, who will stand by me.
I am Meredith Nic Essus, and those who would defy and destroy me are destined to pay a terrible price–for I
am truly my father’s daughter. To protect what is mine, I will sacrifice anything–even if it means waging a
great battle against my darkest enemies and making the most momentous decision ever made as princess of
faerie.
My thoughts:
Swallowing Darkness is the seventh book in the Meredith Gentry series by the amazing Laurell K Hamilton.
Swallowing Darkness starts with Merry in a human hospital, having just been raped by her uncle and the
King of the Seelie court. ( A very emotional and fantastic writen scene, despite the actions in it.)
During this installment our heroine Meredith is newly pregnant with twins. And it's crazy but she's fathered
by not one, not two, but five of her royal guards plus Sholto the King of the Slaugh. I find it harder and
harder to decide who I like the most, each male is amazing.
Merry’s treacherous cousin Cel isn't letting Meredith down easy either since he's the rival for the throne.
Meredith finds it hard because many among the Unseelie Sidhe would prefer Cel's leadership( even if it is
horrible)to that of a mixed-blood mortal.
This installment is full of twists and action. It's emotionally charged and amazingly written, like the rest of the series. I think this installment is my favorite so far. It's a toss between this one and A lick of Frost. Swallowing Darkness is heart wrenching and full of face paced and lusty scenes. I'm a huge fan of this series and cannot wait for Divine Misdemeanors. If you haven't read this series, I highly recommend you do!
I am Meredith, princess of faerie, wielder of the hands of Flesh and Blood, and at long last, I am with child–
twins, fathered by my royal guard. Though my uncle, Taranis, King of Light and Illusion, claims that he is the
true father since he abducted me from my home, betrayed, and defiled me. And now he has branded my
guards as a threat to my unborn children.
Bearing an heir has placed me halfway to my aunt’s throne, that much closer to my reign over the Unseelie
Court–and well ahead of her son, my cousin Cel, in this race. Now I must stay alive to see my children born
and claim my place as queen.
But not all in faerie are pleased with the news, and conspirators from every court in the realm plot against
me and mine. They seek to strip my guards, my lovers, from me by poisoned word or cold steel. But I still
have supporters, and even friends, among the goblins and the sluagh, who will stand by me.
I am Meredith Nic Essus, and those who would defy and destroy me are destined to pay a terrible price–for I
am truly my father’s daughter. To protect what is mine, I will sacrifice anything–even if it means waging a
great battle against my darkest enemies and making the most momentous decision ever made as princess of
faerie.
My thoughts:
Swallowing Darkness is the seventh book in the Meredith Gentry series by the amazing Laurell K Hamilton.
Swallowing Darkness starts with Merry in a human hospital, having just been raped by her uncle and the
King of the Seelie court. ( A very emotional and fantastic writen scene, despite the actions in it.)
During this installment our heroine Meredith is newly pregnant with twins. And it's crazy but she's fathered
by not one, not two, but five of her royal guards plus Sholto the King of the Slaugh. I find it harder and
harder to decide who I like the most, each male is amazing.
Merry’s treacherous cousin Cel isn't letting Meredith down easy either since he's the rival for the throne.
Meredith finds it hard because many among the Unseelie Sidhe would prefer Cel's leadership( even if it is
horrible)to that of a mixed-blood mortal.
This installment is full of twists and action. It's emotionally charged and amazingly written, like the rest of the series. I think this installment is my favorite so far. It's a toss between this one and A lick of Frost. Swallowing Darkness is heart wrenching and full of face paced and lusty scenes. I'm a huge fan of this series and cannot wait for Divine Misdemeanors. If you haven't read this series, I highly recommend you do!
October 26, 2015
The Good: Another painful book for Merry. Another book where she proves she's strong enough to handle all that is thrown at here, even when she doesn't always believe in herself. A huge amount of action in a relatively short period of time means the book is extremely fast paced. Now down time, no opportunity to emotionally deal with all that's being thrown at us. Hamilton is on a role with consistent plot progression in the last few books and Swallowing Darkness takes us into some very unexpected places. Choices are made. Serious choices. Choices that readers will love and hate at the same time. The main question after this book is - where do we go from here? Merry's future is completely turned upside down, again, and while I don't know if that's a good or bad thing, I do know that it'll be a hell of a ride.
The Bad: Not a thing.
The Bad: Not a thing.
November 7, 2008
On the one hand, I know that LKH is trying to keep new readers from feeling too lost if they start late in the series. On the other hand, there are way too many character descriptions that we've seen before, in as much detail as we originally saw them. There are too many similes--take a risk and just say he was a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter's night instead of relying on "as if" and "like"! Too many sudden miracles, one piled upon the other. And the dialogue has gotten repetitive; characters repeating each other's words, repeating their own questions...I keep reading, but the joy in it is fading for me.
But hey, at least there was a little more story this time and a lot less sex. Storyline is a good thing.
But hey, at least there was a little more story this time and a lot less sex. Storyline is a good thing.
November 21, 2008
I've read every book in the series and this, the 7th, is a return to the promise of the first book, before plot was left far behind in favor of porn. Sex is all good and this book has it, for sure, but it also has a plot, finally. Unlike most of Hamilton's later books, I found myself reading to find out what would happen rather than who the lead character would screw next (or what, and how). It's still not stellar fiction but it entertains. I didn't pay for it though. Definitely not worth the hardback price.
February 2, 2023
One of the best books in this series. A lot less sex and more intrigue. Plans unravel spectacularly. The last few chapters really make this an exciting read. We get to see exciting things with Sholto, the Redcaps, and Holly and Ash. There is closure with Prince Cel, but not Taranus nor Andais.
It was a very satisfying read for me that was less erotica and more action and magic.
It was a very satisfying read for me that was less erotica and more action and magic.
January 6, 2023
Sonunda bir savaş gördüm. Aksiyon gördüm. Gözüm gönlüm açıldı yemin ederim. Tabii yine büyük olayların ana kaynağı seks. Zaten kitabın ana teması bu. Meredith bir adamla sevişmezse kimse kurtulamıyor ama en azından duygusal bir şeyler vardı. Ayrıca büyük savaş sahnesi baya güzeldi. Daha bile uzun olsa çok keyif alırdım. Gözlerim hala sağlam inanamıyorum.
December 28, 2008
What you need to know: Major plot points are resolved to the degree that it's really easy to understand why I ended up with a phone call at 2am asking if this was the last of the Merry books. The sex is down to a scene and a half, which might not actually be a selling point for the Merry series, seeing as it was based on the 'sex first, questions six books from now' philosophy.
Of course, for the first 250 or so pages, we repeat the same scenes over and over again to the point even I found it tedious. The last few books of the series have essentially been filler. We don't need even more before we get to the good stuff.
And yes, Virginia, there is good stuff to be had. If you've been wondering when we'd learn who killed Essus, Meredith's father, you'll be quite the happy camper to find out that in a move that shouldn't surprise anyone not actually IN the book, Cel pulled off that little trick. Of course, the rest of the characters, Andais included, are amazed and shocked. Right, because the psychopath hellbent on gaining the crown is always the last person you suspect when someone in line for said crown is murdered. Right. Sure.
Merry finally gets a handle on her hands of power and does a couple of nifty tricks. Merry is crowned by faerie as queen more than once, and if you've spent the last, what, day in the books' timeline wishing Frost would return, fear not. You haven't seen the last of him.
Really, just about everything you need to be tied up is set up in a pretty, shiny little bow.
The problems, fluff notwithstanding, come with the writing [I admire LKH's ability to come up with two fantastic worlds, but she needs someone to pretty the writing up because the words "thicker things" should not show up twice in the same paragraph, let alone in two back-to-back sentences.] and Merry's pool of kings.
I fear I'm hoping for the impossible when I hope that Merry lets the men she isn't madly in love with [anyone who isn't Frost or Doyle] find someone else, even if they do still get together for good times, because it's terribly unfair to hold onto them when she doesn't love them, she merely doesn't want to let them go.
Of course, for the first 250 or so pages, we repeat the same scenes over and over again to the point even I found it tedious. The last few books of the series have essentially been filler. We don't need even more before we get to the good stuff.
And yes, Virginia, there is good stuff to be had. If you've been wondering when we'd learn who killed Essus, Meredith's father, you'll be quite the happy camper to find out that in a move that shouldn't surprise anyone not actually IN the book, Cel pulled off that little trick. Of course, the rest of the characters, Andais included, are amazed and shocked. Right, because the psychopath hellbent on gaining the crown is always the last person you suspect when someone in line for said crown is murdered. Right. Sure.
Merry finally gets a handle on her hands of power and does a couple of nifty tricks. Merry is crowned by faerie as queen more than once, and if you've spent the last, what, day in the books' timeline wishing Frost would return, fear not. You haven't seen the last of him.
Really, just about everything you need to be tied up is set up in a pretty, shiny little bow.
The problems, fluff notwithstanding, come with the writing [I admire LKH's ability to come up with two fantastic worlds, but she needs someone to pretty the writing up because the words "thicker things" should not show up twice in the same paragraph, let alone in two back-to-back sentences.] and Merry's pool of kings.
I fear I'm hoping for the impossible when I hope that Merry lets the men she isn't madly in love with [anyone who isn't Frost or Doyle] find someone else, even if they do still get together for good times, because it's terribly unfair to hold onto them when she doesn't love them, she merely doesn't want to let them go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2011
For all of those that have complained that her books are nothing but sex would appreciate this one...I for one have never complained about the context of her books!!!!
This book had a lot of action, a lot happened in this book.
Merry is having Twins.....and I am very happy with the father(s)...
I had wondered how Hamilton was going to tackle that issue, but I am very pleased with how she did.
Merry is faced with a lot of challenges in this one, a lot of decisions, some very difficult to make.
There is a lot of action, a lot of near death battles. We see the magic unfold and come to life.
There is a part in this book where I want to take Mistral and just hold him, comfort him, and make him feel wanted. He breaks my heart.
Still suffering with the loss of Frost, still hurting over him, makes it hard to get through some of the book. He is missed a lot!!!!
The ending of the book was great, in fact it could have been the end of the series. Almost all of the questions were answered, with just enough left to continue the series (which she does).
Very good read, lots of action, emotion and suspense!!!!
This book had a lot of action, a lot happened in this book.
Merry is having Twins.....and I am very happy with the father(s)...
I had wondered how Hamilton was going to tackle that issue, but I am very pleased with how she did.
Merry is faced with a lot of challenges in this one, a lot of decisions, some very difficult to make.
There is a lot of action, a lot of near death battles. We see the magic unfold and come to life.
There is a part in this book where I want to take Mistral and just hold him, comfort him, and make him feel wanted. He breaks my heart.
Still suffering with the loss of Frost, still hurting over him, makes it hard to get through some of the book. He is missed a lot!!!!
The ending of the book was great, in fact it could have been the end of the series. Almost all of the questions were answered, with just enough left to continue the series (which she does).
Very good read, lots of action, emotion and suspense!!!!
April 6, 2018
This book closes out the story arc that's been driving the series since book 1. Merry is pregnant. According to the rules her Aunt set down for her, she will become Queen of the Unseelie Court. Only, Merry's cousin isn't taking too kindly to having his birthright ripped away from him and will try to do anything to stop her. Throughout the series, Merry has been trying to find a way to keep herself safe from the warring factions in both the Unseelie and the Seelie Courts. She's invoked the nearly extinct wild magic of the Goddess and her Consort and brought magic back into the world of Faerie. And she's still not safe. She's caught between two worlds and she has to walk a fine line to keep from falling into either of them. She has learned to use the non-Fey sides of herself to stay safe and sane. All in all, a good book that ties up the arc while leaving an opening for a whole new slew of problems.
04/05/18 reread: Kinda like Merry, I think Doyle's my favorite. I honestly don't remember what happens in the next book, so this reread is turning FUN!
04/05/18 reread: Kinda like Merry, I think Doyle's my favorite. I honestly don't remember what happens in the next book, so this reread is turning FUN!
November 13, 2008
I was getting tired of this series. The last few have not held my interest... they've been short time periods, and convoluted plot lines and shifting loyalties. And, though I never thought I'd say this, the sex scenes were even dull. How many times can Merry say, "I don't want another lover. I won't take another lover! What? I have to, in order to save all of Faerie? Oh, OK."
This time, though, what scenes there were, were relevant, and there were way less of them, allowing the actual STORY to develop. When half the pages are devoted to supposedly critical sex scenes, you lose a lot of opportunity to move your story forward. This was good, much better than the recent books. I was mostly satisfied with the ending, if not entirely.
This time, though, what scenes there were, were relevant, and there were way less of them, allowing the actual STORY to develop. When half the pages are devoted to supposedly critical sex scenes, you lose a lot of opportunity to move your story forward. This was good, much better than the recent books. I was mostly satisfied with the ending, if not entirely.
April 25, 2011
Genelde bütün Merry Serisini seviyorum ve her ne kadar seks içerikli olduğu için eleştirilse de bana kalırsa insanlar görmek istedikleri tarafları görüyorlar.Kesinlikle Merry serisinin güçlü bir kurgusu var. Bu inkar edilemez. Bu itap bunun en büyük kanıtı. Harika bir giriş-gelişme-sonuç . Doyle ve Frost neredeyse başroller de bu kitapta. En sonunda meşhur Cel'de ortalığa dökülüyor. Merry'nin başına gelenlerde Fatmagül'ü aratır cinsten :D Harika bir kitap gerçekten de :)
July 19, 2016
If the series would have ended here it would have been great :) I think there'll be some deaths in the next 2 books, I just have this feeling. Anyway it's worth it! I haven't had this much fun in ages!
November 28, 2008
mmm...better, at least there was more plot development than just gratuitous sex.
July 4, 2023
Damn, the last 30% of the book was intense as fuck! Pity I was bored through the rest.
November 30, 2016
I am genuinely torn about whether this instalment in the Fairy Sex Saga deserves a fourth star. Probably because Stockholm Syndrome results from reading 500 pages of this nonsense within just over 24 hours. In some ways, though, this is the most satisfying of the Merry Gentry books to date. There is some actual resolution to several plotlines and only one (somewhat perfunctory) full sex scene. Merry continues to collect magical powers like free pens, whilst constantly reflecting on her pregnancy and wondering at her stomach still being flat. (Yes, we get it. You’re still conventionally hot.) Nonetheless, the theme of faerie being obsessed with appearance and according status only to those considered beautiful is given more depth. As the whole narrative isn’t a series of sex scenes strung together, there is room for some world-building amidst the strung together scenes of brutal violence.
Early on, Merry finally acknowledges that absolute monarchy and immortality are a terrible, terrible combination. The sluagh (how the hell is that pronounced?) seem the least dysfunctional of fairy regimes as they have a slight semblance of democracy. As well as a monarch who is intermittently sane and sensible, rather than perpetually mad and sadistic. On the other hand, Merry herself murders more people than she has sex with in this book, which is a first. Much like the universe of 'Fargo', in Merry Gentry world being pregnant seems to make one significantly more badass. I enjoyed that, although Merry’s self-awareness about her own bloodthirstiness seemed rather variable. I was also somewhat unsettled by her thought that Doyle is a psychopathic assassin, but it’s OK because he is her psychopathic assassin. The Darkness (the guy, not the band) gets horrifically injured on several occasions in this book, but [not really spoilers since his name is in the book title] walks it off.
Regarding the men in Merry’s life, Sholto is a major presence and the reader is treated to many descriptions of his pastel-shaded tentacles. Indeed, there is a hilariously awkward abortive sex scene when Merry just wants to give Doyle a blowjob but is derailed by Sholto getting his tentacles involved then Mistral becoming self-conscious. They all promptly get sidetracked into discussion of where they are, whether magic has married Sholto to Merry, and why Mistral and Sholto gave each other static shocks. We also learn at the beginning of the book that Doyle and Frost have exchanged locks of hair - just bros being bros. At one point, Merry contemplates home furnishings whilst Mistral lies insensible and wounded. In fact, Mistral’s facade of being an absolute jerk seems to have evaporated completely. He is the only one of the baby daddies to cry about it and hides from Merry behind his hair. Lazily inconsistent characterisation or a comment on the brittle nature of toxic hyper-masculinity? You decide. One of the funniest moments in Merry’s stream of consciousness refers to Doyle giving Mistral a manly shoulder clasp: 'I’d noticed that when nude, the men were less open to hugs from one another.' (I’m not convinced about that comma placement, incidentally.)
This brings me to the main problem I have with ‘Swallowing Darkness’. It has not been well copy-edited. I kept noticing little errors, then in the space of twenty pages the typo ‘solider’ appeared four times! That’s just careless. The ‘soliders’ themselves were an appealing addition, though, as their impatience with fairy nonsense is amusing. I was sympathetic to Gregario, who just wants Merry and her harem to stop kissing and get in the goddamn humvee. There was also an intriguing reference to ‘Persian’ monsters, to complement the fact that military wizards apparently saw action in Iraq. It was nice to get a hint of the wider magical world beyond Merry’s sexual shenanigans and deranged relatives. Talking of which…
Early on, Merry finally acknowledges that absolute monarchy and immortality are a terrible, terrible combination. The sluagh (how the hell is that pronounced?) seem the least dysfunctional of fairy regimes as they have a slight semblance of democracy. As well as a monarch who is intermittently sane and sensible, rather than perpetually mad and sadistic. On the other hand, Merry herself murders more people than she has sex with in this book, which is a first. Much like the universe of 'Fargo', in Merry Gentry world being pregnant seems to make one significantly more badass. I enjoyed that, although Merry’s self-awareness about her own bloodthirstiness seemed rather variable. I was also somewhat unsettled by her thought that Doyle is a psychopathic assassin, but it’s OK because he is her psychopathic assassin. The Darkness (the guy, not the band) gets horrifically injured on several occasions in this book, but [not really spoilers since his name is in the book title] walks it off.
Regarding the men in Merry’s life, Sholto is a major presence and the reader is treated to many descriptions of his pastel-shaded tentacles. Indeed, there is a hilariously awkward abortive sex scene when Merry just wants to give Doyle a blowjob but is derailed by Sholto getting his tentacles involved then Mistral becoming self-conscious. They all promptly get sidetracked into discussion of where they are, whether magic has married Sholto to Merry, and why Mistral and Sholto gave each other static shocks. We also learn at the beginning of the book that Doyle and Frost have exchanged locks of hair - just bros being bros. At one point, Merry contemplates home furnishings whilst Mistral lies insensible and wounded. In fact, Mistral’s facade of being an absolute jerk seems to have evaporated completely. He is the only one of the baby daddies to cry about it and hides from Merry behind his hair. Lazily inconsistent characterisation or a comment on the brittle nature of toxic hyper-masculinity? You decide. One of the funniest moments in Merry’s stream of consciousness refers to Doyle giving Mistral a manly shoulder clasp: 'I’d noticed that when nude, the men were less open to hugs from one another.' (I’m not convinced about that comma placement, incidentally.)
This brings me to the main problem I have with ‘Swallowing Darkness’. It has not been well copy-edited. I kept noticing little errors, then in the space of twenty pages the typo ‘solider’ appeared four times! That’s just careless. The ‘soliders’ themselves were an appealing addition, though, as their impatience with fairy nonsense is amusing. I was sympathetic to Gregario, who just wants Merry and her harem to stop kissing and get in the goddamn humvee. There was also an intriguing reference to ‘Persian’ monsters, to complement the fact that military wizards apparently saw action in Iraq. It was nice to get a hint of the wider magical world beyond Merry’s sexual shenanigans and deranged relatives. Talking of which…
December 1, 2025
5 ⭐️
I just really enjoyed seeing Merry come into her own as apolitically savvy and powerful character. I also had a lot of fun with the battle sequence at the end, it got really crazy. And that moment with Doyle and Merry at the end?! So good.
I just really enjoyed seeing Merry come into her own as apolitically savvy and powerful character. I also had a lot of fun with the battle sequence at the end, it got really crazy. And that moment with Doyle and Merry at the end?! So good.
November 13, 2008
The long-awaited "culmination" of Laurell K. Hamilton's "fey" series. It wraps up so many plots and loose ends that Hamilton has posted notice to her web site that 'this is not the end.' For folks who've stuck with the series this long (and I know folks who've given up a few books in for want of plot), this is your reward. There's plot, plot, and more plot. More magic, and less s*x. In fact, she goes all the way to the second-to-last chapter for an actual s*x scene... There's one that gets started then interrupted. But considering prior books, that's remarkable. (So much so that I'm remarking on it.) Most folks agree that "Mistral's Kiss" and "A Lick of Frost" should have been combined to make a full-length book, as "Frost" made up for the plot that simply lacked in "Mistral's." "Darkness'" title seemed to be an indication of plot content, but I'm not sure it was as connected as "Frost" or "Mistral's" were to their content. Some of the plot points that are addressed are: what happens to Ash & Holly; Sholto and the Sluagh, recovery of lost weapons and other objects of power, Frost, Jonty, Cel, the Seelie Court, and other long-term plots.
Having held out this long, I'm satisfied with the book's contents, and, give or take, its conclusions. It wasn't the ZOMG-I-Must-Read-Every-Word-Without-Putting-It-Down as others had been, but it's possible I was pacing myself, knowing there won't be another book for a while. It was, by and large, worth the wait. I'm not sure I'm at HOLY WOW AMAZING, but it was definitely satisfying, marginally less prone to the overused and tired phrases and cliches that have been rampant in prior books in this series (less "my skin glowed like I swallowed the moon," possibly due to WAY less s*x than prior books). She's left the door open to continue the series, but it'll be interesting to see where she goes from here, as it ends, because she has resolved a lot of the political tension and intrigue that drove the series as a whole.
Having held out this long, I'm satisfied with the book's contents, and, give or take, its conclusions. It wasn't the ZOMG-I-Must-Read-Every-Word-Without-Putting-It-Down as others had been, but it's possible I was pacing myself, knowing there won't be another book for a while. It was, by and large, worth the wait. I'm not sure I'm at HOLY WOW AMAZING, but it was definitely satisfying, marginally less prone to the overused and tired phrases and cliches that have been rampant in prior books in this series (less "my skin glowed like I swallowed the moon," possibly due to WAY less s*x than prior books). She's left the door open to continue the series, but it'll be interesting to see where she goes from here, as it ends, because she has resolved a lot of the political tension and intrigue that drove the series as a whole.
December 19, 2024
I think I’ve reached the point in the series where the books are new to me rather than rereads, since none of this seemed remotely familiar. Swallowing Darkness may be one of the best, plot-wise, so far. While it still occasionally lags in places, there’s a lot going on, and the end is quite tense as Meredith and Cel finally face off. Hamilton’s novels often feel rushed in the final confrontations, resolving in only a few pages, but that isn’t the case here. There’s quite a satisfying battle and build-up. It almost feels as though it could have ended here, all plot threads neatly tied up (and judging by the reviews of the next two books, perhaps that would have been better).
Admittedly, there is a lot of power-ups in this book in particular and the series as a whole. It’s nice that Meredith has been blessed by the Goddess, but praying to fix every issue gets a little tedious after a while, and it takes most of the punch out of the stakes when few things that happen are permanent. Aside from the end battle, my favorite aspect of this book is that a good chunk of it takes place in the sluagh, my favorite of the faerie courts, with Sholto being my favorite of Meredith’s guys after Doyle. Of course I love the nightmare court the best.
I review regularly at brightbeautifulthings.tumblr.com.
Admittedly, there is a lot of power-ups in this book in particular and the series as a whole. It’s nice that Meredith has been blessed by the Goddess, but praying to fix every issue gets a little tedious after a while, and it takes most of the punch out of the stakes when few things that happen are permanent. Aside from the end battle, my favorite aspect of this book is that a good chunk of it takes place in the sluagh, my favorite of the faerie courts, with Sholto being my favorite of Meredith’s guys after Doyle. Of course I love the nightmare court the best.
I review regularly at brightbeautifulthings.tumblr.com.
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