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Buffyverse Novels #93
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Dark Congress
Since the beginning of time, the demonic races have gathered every century to resolve conflicts among them and to determine the course of their future. This centennial event was called the Dark Congress.
In the second century b.c., however, the Dark Congress failed to resolve their conflicts. Instead, the Congress ignited into a war that drove wedges between the various demon races from that time until now. And all of it began as a result of Kandida, the great North African river demon, being nearly killed by forces in the Congress and magically entombed in the riverbank.
But now, Kandida is free, and for the first time in centuries, the Dark Congress is being called again. All demon races and other varieties of supernatural creatures have been called to gather at the Hellmouth in Providence, Rhode Island. Some gather in hopes of resolution, some in favor of war, and Kandida is tasked to broker a treaty and guide the Congress to peace, wherein everyone might simply agree to disagree. And so the demons gather under a banner of a truce.
But the demons still harbor many bitter disagreements with one another. The Congress must have an arbiter of these conflicts, and that someone is Buffy Summers.
Buffy is horrified and disgusted to be included. After all, she is not a demon...is she? She knows so little about her powers that she cannot say for certain where they truly spring from. How can she spend so much time wallowing in the darkness without becoming part of it? Can she possibly agree to a truce with all the horrors of the world, and allow them to come Providence without any attempt to stop them? And does she have a choice?
In the second century b.c., however, the Dark Congress failed to resolve their conflicts. Instead, the Congress ignited into a war that drove wedges between the various demon races from that time until now. And all of it began as a result of Kandida, the great North African river demon, being nearly killed by forces in the Congress and magically entombed in the riverbank.
But now, Kandida is free, and for the first time in centuries, the Dark Congress is being called again. All demon races and other varieties of supernatural creatures have been called to gather at the Hellmouth in Providence, Rhode Island. Some gather in hopes of resolution, some in favor of war, and Kandida is tasked to broker a treaty and guide the Congress to peace, wherein everyone might simply agree to disagree. And so the demons gather under a banner of a truce.
But the demons still harbor many bitter disagreements with one another. The Congress must have an arbiter of these conflicts, and that someone is Buffy Summers.
Buffy is horrified and disgusted to be included. After all, she is not a demon...is she? She knows so little about her powers that she cannot say for certain where they truly spring from. How can she spend so much time wallowing in the darkness without becoming part of it? Can she possibly agree to a truce with all the horrors of the world, and allow them to come Providence without any attempt to stop them? And does she have a choice?
270 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2007
4 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Golden
802 books2,986 followersCHRISTOPHER GOLDEN is the New York Times bestselling, Bram Stoker Award-winning author of such novels as Road of Bones, Ararat, Snowblind, Of Saints and Shadows, and Red Hands. With Mike Mignola, he is the co-creator of the Outerverse comic book universe, including such series as Baltimore, Joe Golem: Occult Detective, and Lady Baltimore. As an editor, he has worked on the short story anthologies Seize the Night, Dark Cities, and The New Dead, among others, and he has also written and co-written comic books, video games, screenplays, and a network television pilot. Golden co-hosts the podcast Defenders Dialogue with horror author Brian Keene. In 2015 he founded the popular Merrimack Valley Halloween Book Festival. He was born and raised in Massachusetts, where he still lives with his family. His work has been nominated for the British Fantasy Award, the Eisner Award, and multiple Shirley Jackson Awards. For the Bram Stoker Awards, Golden has been nominated ten times in eight different categories. His original novels have been published in more than fifteen languages in countries around the world. Please visit him at www.christophergolden.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 30, 2017
5 stars
Nice to see that there is a Dark Congress. Glad they were able to figure out who killed Kandida.
Can't wait to read more Buffyverse novels!!!!!
Nice to see that there is a Dark Congress. Glad they were able to figure out who killed Kandida.
Can't wait to read more Buffyverse novels!!!!!
August 9, 2013
I almost burst into tears @the end, with Willow...won't say what happened, but when you get to that part you will understand why.
Christopher Golden does a great job capturing characters as they were in the show, behaviors and all. Not everyone can do that, certainly not as well as he does.
Christopher Golden does a great job capturing characters as they were in the show, behaviors and all. Not everyone can do that, certainly not as well as he does.
October 18, 2017
I actually did not enjoy this Buffy book as much as I expected. The events take place after the end of the TV series of Buffy finished where all of the slayers have been activated in the final battle by Willow's spell.
The storyline in itself I liked with their being a Dark Congress of demons who meet to decide the fate of humans. However, the problem for me in this particular book was that it was very disjointed. For the first two-thirds of the book, the key players are in different places around the world. Willow is in Greece, with Kennedy, but after a falling out she meets a powerful witch, Catherine Cadiere who gives Willow an ancient spell for a familiar which resurrects the spirit of Tara within a ginger cat. Giles is in England with the Watcher's council. Buffy and Xander are in Providence, and Faith is in San Francisco and Oz is travelling.
It takes a while for everyone to figure out what is happening and all migrate towards Buffy and Xander's location. This means that you are all over the place and it is actually hard to keep track of everyone.
As everyone converges the story gets better and the last third of the book is much better.
Christopher Golden is seasoned Buffy writer who has written a lot of the tie-in novels but this was not one of his best and was actually quite hard going.
3.5 stars rounded to 4 because it picked up in the end.
The storyline in itself I liked with their being a Dark Congress of demons who meet to decide the fate of humans. However, the problem for me in this particular book was that it was very disjointed. For the first two-thirds of the book, the key players are in different places around the world. Willow is in Greece, with Kennedy, but after a falling out she meets a powerful witch, Catherine Cadiere who gives Willow an ancient spell for a familiar which resurrects the spirit of Tara within a ginger cat. Giles is in England with the Watcher's council. Buffy and Xander are in Providence, and Faith is in San Francisco and Oz is travelling.
It takes a while for everyone to figure out what is happening and all migrate towards Buffy and Xander's location. This means that you are all over the place and it is actually hard to keep track of everyone.
As everyone converges the story gets better and the last third of the book is much better.
Christopher Golden is seasoned Buffy writer who has written a lot of the tie-in novels but this was not one of his best and was actually quite hard going.
3.5 stars rounded to 4 because it picked up in the end.
October 8, 2021
One of the best Buffy books I've ever read, and certainly the best I've read in a while. Christopher Golden always does a perfect job capturing the essence of the characters I've grown up with. This book takes place after the show ends and does a great job reuniting characters old and new. A must read for any Buffy fan who wants more content post season 7.
May 25, 2025
An entertaining Buffy the Vampire Slayer tale taking place after the series had ended. Buffy and Xander are in Rhode Island, Willow is in Greece, Faith is in San Francisco while Giles is in London. They all end up coming to Providence Rhode Island to help Buffy and Xander figure out why suddenly all kinds of supernatural beings are gathering there. Worth a read.
November 28, 2018
So so
I thought the characterizations were dead on. The end left me “meh.” Despite that, it’s still fun to read more adventures about the Scooby Gang after season 7.
I thought the characterizations were dead on. The end left me “meh.” Despite that, it’s still fun to read more adventures about the Scooby Gang after season 7.
March 31, 2019
Anything Golden writes is always dedicated to its source material. He doesn't disappoint here. A very emotional story.
August 11, 2010
I just finished this. I enjoyed it, but there were a few glaring continuity errors. (Spoilers ahead)
1) At first, Giles is told that only Micaela survived Kandida's resurrection, bu later Micaela refers to another survivor.
2) The Charnel demons are initially described as being made out of human corpses, but after that, they're described as being made out of flaming lava.
3) A big deal is made of Buffy acquiring a tire iron from the cab driver on her way to the river, but during her fight with the "champions" she doesn't. Use it. Once.
These errors are fairly unprofessional and obvious.
The other thing that disappointed me was tht we didn't get to see more of the Congress itself. Buffy turns over her job as arbiter soon after the event that disrupts the congress, and never takes it back.
At tne same time, there was a lot to enjoy about it. Golden has a good ear for the banter and relationships between these characters we know and love, and two pairs of doomed lovers are written with great poignancy.
1) At first, Giles is told that only Micaela survived Kandida's resurrection, bu later Micaela refers to another survivor.
2) The Charnel demons are initially described as being made out of human corpses, but after that, they're described as being made out of flaming lava.
3) A big deal is made of Buffy acquiring a tire iron from the cab driver on her way to the river, but during her fight with the "champions" she doesn't. Use it. Once.
These errors are fairly unprofessional and obvious.
The other thing that disappointed me was tht we didn't get to see more of the Congress itself. Buffy turns over her job as arbiter soon after the event that disrupts the congress, and never takes it back.
At tne same time, there was a lot to enjoy about it. Golden has a good ear for the banter and relationships between these characters we know and love, and two pairs of doomed lovers are written with great poignancy.
Read
July 8, 2011Dark Congress by Christopher Golden. 270 pages. Trade PB. Fantasy/tie-in. While trying to make space on my bookshelves, I decided to box up my Buffy tie-in books. I found two that I didn’t remember reading. This was the better of the two. This book takes place post-series. A watchers’ council archeological team frees a river demon that is in love with a desert demon, triggering the first Dark Congress among demons 2000 years. Buffy investigates when demons start congregating in Providence, RI (why there? Apparently, it is the site of a dormant Hellmouth (Golden apparently forgot about the one in Cleveland). Meanwhile, an ancient and powerful witch offers to make Willow her apprentice and resurrect Tara, but if she’s a good witch why does she want to teach Willow blood magic? Faith and Xander also play major roles (no Dawn though). Golden’s Buffy books were some of the best.
April 17, 2012
The forces of evil are gathering…for a summit talk? Once again, Buffy Summers finds herself plunged into the middle of weirdness as demons congregate in Providence, Rhode Island. For a woman who’s used to killing vicious beasties, how will Buffy handle it when the monsters insist on peaceful talks?
The beloved characters are all there with their trademark witticisms, character voices and tested teamwork well in play. Mr. Golden has written Buffy characters before now and his veteran talent shines in this story that brings a whole new brand of tension into the mix. The threat of global apocalypse (again!) is made credible. The action is ripping good and the dialogue whip smart. Fun for Buffy fans and those new to the show as well.
The beloved characters are all there with their trademark witticisms, character voices and tested teamwork well in play. Mr. Golden has written Buffy characters before now and his veteran talent shines in this story that brings a whole new brand of tension into the mix. The threat of global apocalypse (again!) is made credible. The action is ripping good and the dialogue whip smart. Fun for Buffy fans and those new to the show as well.
March 17, 2013
This is supposed to be the last tie-in ever. Added to my wishlist because I would definitely not mind owning a copy of this. This might be my second favorite BtVS tie-in ever. Read a library copy some time ago. When I submitted an ILS form for this to my local library at the time, the handling librarian said immediately, 'oh, we'll just buy this'. This discussion has some minor plot spoilers. After the collapse of the Sunnydale hellmouth, an ancient conclave of the world's demons is convened to redress mutual grievances between themselves, Buffy and her wacky pals get involved, hi jinx follow. It's darker and more plot driven than many tie-ins. Parts of the plot revolve around the Willow and Tara story and the episodes, Killer in Me and Seeing Red.
April 28, 2008
I've missed Buffy and was ecstatic to find something that continues the story from where season 7 left off and before the comic began.
The whole gang is back, with slight changes, some have definitely grown up.
The story, though titled Dark Congress, focuses more on the Scooby Gangs relationships now as well as a mystery, rather than the politics of the Congress. Mostly it was fun and familiar.
The whole gang is back, with slight changes, some have definitely grown up.
The story, though titled Dark Congress, focuses more on the Scooby Gangs relationships now as well as a mystery, rather than the politics of the Congress. Mostly it was fun and familiar.
March 22, 2013
I enjoyed this as it brought many of my favourite characters to life well. It was a nice little Buffy fix. I particularly enjoyed Faith and Oz's banter.
The writing however does suffer from consistency issues. It also repeated some character traits/thoughts way too much. Oz seemed to cock his eyebrow the same damn way in every scene for example.
It's perfectly enjoyable for any Buffy fan but isn't the best tie in
The writing however does suffer from consistency issues. It also repeated some character traits/thoughts way too much. Oz seemed to cock his eyebrow the same damn way in every scene for example.
It's perfectly enjoyable for any Buffy fan but isn't the best tie in
January 8, 2009
A BtVS novel, set after the end of season 7. It was really fun to see what Golden came up with for the characters. And I think it even pretty much fits into the season 8 world of the comics, too. Golden writes the characters' voices pretty darn well. Very enjoyable. And the plotline with Willow had me tearing up by the end. Recommended for BtVS fans.
August 17, 2015
This is a Buffy novel set after the end of season seven, but before the comic book chronology took over the canon. It's a good adventure, and also revisits many of the old friends and foes and gives them a fond farewell, or at least a fun acknowledgment and update. Lots of fun for Buffy fans.
September 23, 2007
Fun. Good Oz stuff, good Faith stuff.
May 27, 2008
Liked the storyline, don't like Chris Golden's writing style.
October 4, 2008
A fun and relaxing read with a few interesting twists. Nice! :-)
Want to read
December 5, 2008Holy crap, Buffy in my hometown of Providence, RI????? A HELLMOUTH IN PROVIDENCE? I might faint from the excitement.
November 8, 2009
Squee!
August 11, 2010
Recently read as the book of the Month by Whedon Readers. Dialogue very truthful, characters believable, and plot line followable. Very Good Read.
December 27, 2010
Way better than Nancy Holders Queen of the Slayers. I quite enjoyed seeing all the Scoobies together again including Oz and old favorite baddies like The Gentlemen
December 13, 2010
So much action!
August 10, 2011
Read this while on a Buffy kick. Not the greatest piece of literature I've ever read, but it was a fun, light read.
February 25, 2019
Another solid one
June 17, 2016
This is by far one of the best Buffy The Vampire Slayer novels that is post Television series that I have had the pleasure to read.
November 17, 2016
This book was awesome, but the ending killed me.
April 9, 2017
This is only the second Buffy novel I've read, but I really enjoyed it! I was intrigued to read an AU Season 8, and there was some really fun stuff here. There were a handful of great scenes, and the character interactions were so fun! I loved when everyone was together! The Gentlemen/Faith scene will stay in my mind for some time, as well as a few of the one liners that had me rolling (most from Faith, I think). The Tara stuff was complete fan service, but done fairly well. I found myself really into the Faith and Oz point of views, which surprised me a little as Oz was never one of my favorite characters. The chemistry between those two in this book was also great; I kind of ship it now? Also, Faith was super bi in this book; just wanted to point that out. 4/5 stars! There was a lot to enjoy here, but I did find the ending a bit sudden. Left a little to be desired from the Dark Congress itself. I actually wanted to see more of the event with Buffy in the middle of it! The allusions to human politics could have been way more present.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews