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All the truths of her life were born from the promise of a lie. A lie that could change everything. Gabrian Shadwell studied hard and kept her nose to the grindstone in order to live the successful full-life most humans strive for. The problem is, she isn't exactly human; she can see auras...and she yearns to devour them-she is comprised of the things nightmares are made of. With her eyes opened to the truth of her Borrower heritage, her chaotic journey of self-discovery takes her down a dangerous road when the tainted eyes of the self-righteous Elders in the Realm turn against her. With good and evil before her, she must choose which path she will walk upon and learn the biggest truth of her life. The only difference between a Borrower and a Vampire is hope.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2016
326 people are currently reading
965 people want to read
About the author
Kade Cook
7 books123 followersKade Cook is Supernatural fantasy fangirl. Her love of Twilight, The Mortal Instruments and ACOTAR inspired her to write her own fantasy book series, The Covenant of Shadows.
Book one, GREY, was Shortlisted for the 2017 Emerging Writer's Prize on June 27th for Canada's best new books in Speculative Fiction.
Born and raised as a NB 'Maritimer' from the East coast of Canada, Kade will always be at home around good times and kind hearts, proud to be a daydreamer with a story to tell.
You can visit her at goodreads.com/Kade_cook or come hang out on her website: kadecook.wordpress.com/ or facebook.com/kadecook.author/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 13, 2016
Kade Cook has what I like to call a beautiful mind. Where does she come up with all this stuff: A story out of thin air that feels real, true, and authentic? And the characters … well-developed characters, main and secondary that live, breath, and rise from the pages. I’ve never been a fan of vampires or the stories they populate, but I’ll forever be a fan of Kade Cook if she can continue to cook up tales like Grey. She wields a flawless, third-person, omniscient narrator that feels surprisingly close to all the characters.
Cook takes us straightway into the action with a purposeful prologue that sets the tone for things to come. And come they do. It’s a supernatural smorgasbord. We are introduced to our protagonist, accomplished professional, Dr. Gabrian Shadwell. We are unknowingly drawn into her volatile world, and her gradual growth and transformation by the novel’s end are both significant and profound.
Cook doesn’t bore us with brooding backstory and tedious exposition but places this necessary information strategically throughout the narrative, wrapped in elegant prose, vivid descriptions and authentic, engaging dialogue. It’s somewhat cinematic in its approach and would make a great film. Cook also does a good job of keeping the tension up chapter after chapter, and the reader in suspense as to the outcome of our story and its dynamic heroine's fate. Sample some of Cook’s exquisite words. “A foreboding sense of fear sweeps over her [Gabrian], sending a shiver down her spine and wiping her face clean of expression except for the dew forming in the edges of her eyes—sadly revealing to her an understanding that she has somehow managed to lose all control of her life.” These last words are telling to the story’s direction, but you have to read it to get more. Ha!
I’m not a fan of instalove at first sight, but Cook has found the right combination of words to make the concept more than believable. I was swept away when Shane and Gabrian first crossed paths, drawn into their blaze. But it’s Cook’s words that kept me there, unwilling to blink. Witness a bit of the magic.
“He stands above her, smelling an arousing scent of cinnamon in her hair. He looks down at her and feels his pulse begin to race just from being close to her. She is unlike any girl he has ever met before—she ignites him. She pulls his attention to its knees, making him want to take in everything she does—cling to every word she says. He wants to kiss her so badly it hurts. He can feel his need for her painfully twist in his chest.” And “He thought she was beautiful before but now he is convinced she has to be a descendant of the goddess Aphrodite herself, sent here to wreak havoc on his senses. Everything about her makes him weak, and he knows he is now and forever more irrevocably lost in her.” One more. “He [Shane] observes her transform from the shy wall flower he had met at the coffee shop only hours ago into the wind.”
Adrinn as villain is terrifying, intriguing, and formidable. The scene where he takes Gabrian to a bar to wield his dark magik is intoxicating (no pun). I read the chapter twice. Cook keeps the story grounded in the here and now with perfectly placed references to current pop culture. All in all, the Realm is an exciting and provocative place to be, and I’m looking forward to a return trip there. 5 stars plus for Kade Cook’s debut effort, Grey: The Covenant of Shadows.
Cook takes us straightway into the action with a purposeful prologue that sets the tone for things to come. And come they do. It’s a supernatural smorgasbord. We are introduced to our protagonist, accomplished professional, Dr. Gabrian Shadwell. We are unknowingly drawn into her volatile world, and her gradual growth and transformation by the novel’s end are both significant and profound.
Cook doesn’t bore us with brooding backstory and tedious exposition but places this necessary information strategically throughout the narrative, wrapped in elegant prose, vivid descriptions and authentic, engaging dialogue. It’s somewhat cinematic in its approach and would make a great film. Cook also does a good job of keeping the tension up chapter after chapter, and the reader in suspense as to the outcome of our story and its dynamic heroine's fate. Sample some of Cook’s exquisite words. “A foreboding sense of fear sweeps over her [Gabrian], sending a shiver down her spine and wiping her face clean of expression except for the dew forming in the edges of her eyes—sadly revealing to her an understanding that she has somehow managed to lose all control of her life.” These last words are telling to the story’s direction, but you have to read it to get more. Ha!
I’m not a fan of instalove at first sight, but Cook has found the right combination of words to make the concept more than believable. I was swept away when Shane and Gabrian first crossed paths, drawn into their blaze. But it’s Cook’s words that kept me there, unwilling to blink. Witness a bit of the magic.
“He stands above her, smelling an arousing scent of cinnamon in her hair. He looks down at her and feels his pulse begin to race just from being close to her. She is unlike any girl he has ever met before—she ignites him. She pulls his attention to its knees, making him want to take in everything she does—cling to every word she says. He wants to kiss her so badly it hurts. He can feel his need for her painfully twist in his chest.” And “He thought she was beautiful before but now he is convinced she has to be a descendant of the goddess Aphrodite herself, sent here to wreak havoc on his senses. Everything about her makes him weak, and he knows he is now and forever more irrevocably lost in her.” One more. “He [Shane] observes her transform from the shy wall flower he had met at the coffee shop only hours ago into the wind.”
Adrinn as villain is terrifying, intriguing, and formidable. The scene where he takes Gabrian to a bar to wield his dark magik is intoxicating (no pun). I read the chapter twice. Cook keeps the story grounded in the here and now with perfectly placed references to current pop culture. All in all, the Realm is an exciting and provocative place to be, and I’m looking forward to a return trip there. 5 stars plus for Kade Cook’s debut effort, Grey: The Covenant of Shadows.
October 11, 2016
This is my favorite book on Earth because I wrote it and I wrote it because I was looking for a book that could capture my whole existence and it was a story that I wanted to read. It is about life, about sorrow, about new love and adventure. It allows you to experience what change is about when you have no choice other than to move forward and adapt, or be destroyed.
It is real life dusted with just a hint of magic.
It is real life dusted with just a hint of magic.
June 29, 2017
What would you do if everything you knew about yourself—including the fact that you are human—wasn’t really the truth? Worse, how would you feel if, just by accident, a group of innocent people was nearly slaughtered because you didn’t know that you were … special? That’s the premise behind Author Kade Cook’s absorbing paranormal thriller, “Grey (The Covenant of Shadows Book 1)”, and it’s a premise that is beautifully executed by her main character, Gabrian. You can almost tell from the beginning of “Grey” that things are probably not going to bode well for poor Gabrian as she begins to experience strange visions and demonstrates uncontrolled abilities that are well beyond all logic and reason—at least for an everyday normal human being. But Gabrian isn’t your normal everyday human—at least that’s what everyone around her is suddenly trying to convey to this straight-thinking, conservative psychologist with the practical and analytical mind. What Gabrian learns about her true identity, however, not only causes her to react blindly … The whole proposition absolutely scares her to death.
Incredibly descriptive and totally absorbing from one scene to the next, Cook’s “Grey” provides an intriguing look into what it would be like for a normal young woman to—suddenly and without warning—manifest strange powers, causing a horrific incident that begs she be placed under severe restrictions and—at all times—controlled. Readers will feel a great deal of empathy for Gabrian as she tries to accept her newfound identity and piece together the puzzle of her own twisted past—which seems quite foreign and unacceptable to her. As we walk her road, we feel her horror, her loneliness, her abandonment, her revulsion, her grief, and her pain. And as Cook adeptly guides the reader through the mind and heart of her protagonist, she opens Gabrian’s eyes to an alternative world, forcing her to deal with a multitude of issues resulting from her mysterious past, and leading her to the discovery of her true self … whether she likes it or not. Over and over again, the reader sinks and soars as Gabrian wavers in her acceptance of what she is told to believe and what truth she learns about her past. But our screams cannot be muffled when our protagonist finally begins to test the full force of her powers and places her life and the lives of those she loves in severe jeopardy.
“Grey” is artfully told, with mind-boggling twists and turns that tear at your heart. There are more than a few standout scenes that you will never see coming—and never forget—as Gabrian takes steps to forge her own future within the new paranormal norm. By the end of this tale, you’ll be asking yourself if you are who you think you are. Trust me, this is one book you’ll want to read all in one sitting ... The highs and lows hit you at a moment’s notice, and waiting any longer to find out the ultimate truth might just put your own life at risk!
Incredibly descriptive and totally absorbing from one scene to the next, Cook’s “Grey” provides an intriguing look into what it would be like for a normal young woman to—suddenly and without warning—manifest strange powers, causing a horrific incident that begs she be placed under severe restrictions and—at all times—controlled. Readers will feel a great deal of empathy for Gabrian as she tries to accept her newfound identity and piece together the puzzle of her own twisted past—which seems quite foreign and unacceptable to her. As we walk her road, we feel her horror, her loneliness, her abandonment, her revulsion, her grief, and her pain. And as Cook adeptly guides the reader through the mind and heart of her protagonist, she opens Gabrian’s eyes to an alternative world, forcing her to deal with a multitude of issues resulting from her mysterious past, and leading her to the discovery of her true self … whether she likes it or not. Over and over again, the reader sinks and soars as Gabrian wavers in her acceptance of what she is told to believe and what truth she learns about her past. But our screams cannot be muffled when our protagonist finally begins to test the full force of her powers and places her life and the lives of those she loves in severe jeopardy.
“Grey” is artfully told, with mind-boggling twists and turns that tear at your heart. There are more than a few standout scenes that you will never see coming—and never forget—as Gabrian takes steps to forge her own future within the new paranormal norm. By the end of this tale, you’ll be asking yourself if you are who you think you are. Trust me, this is one book you’ll want to read all in one sitting ... The highs and lows hit you at a moment’s notice, and waiting any longer to find out the ultimate truth might just put your own life at risk!
September 11, 2016
This review is featured on my blog: Writerly Bookish Stuff.
Gabrian was living an ordinary working life with a loyal best friend, loving parents, and a good job, but things change for Gabrian in the blink of an eye. People in her life are not who she thought they were, the world is not as it seems, and she is not the human she believed she was.
I am not usually a fan of prologues, but this one really piqued my interest. The story didn't live up to the prologue for the first few chapters, but it did gather momentum and delve into a unique story line of Vampires, Shadow Walkers, and Mages.
I felt the pace was a little off throughout the book. As soon as I thought something was happening, and everything was stepping up a notch, it was followed by slower chapters full of info dumps. The descriptions of the realms and the different types of people and abilities were detailed and well thought through, and the concept and imaginative aspects involved were impressive, however, I would have preferred to have it shown to me in snippets rather than lengthy dialogue.
I am a fan of large character casts with distinct personalities, and this book certainly had a vast array of characters with their own back stories that interweave into Gabrian's story arc. I can not fault Cook's character development, or her ability to narrate well rounded relationships, considering the complex world building that takes place within the narrative. However, the book felt considerably lengthy.
Gabrian was living an ordinary working life with a loyal best friend, loving parents, and a good job, but things change for Gabrian in the blink of an eye. People in her life are not who she thought they were, the world is not as it seems, and she is not the human she believed she was.
I am not usually a fan of prologues, but this one really piqued my interest. The story didn't live up to the prologue for the first few chapters, but it did gather momentum and delve into a unique story line of Vampires, Shadow Walkers, and Mages.
I felt the pace was a little off throughout the book. As soon as I thought something was happening, and everything was stepping up a notch, it was followed by slower chapters full of info dumps. The descriptions of the realms and the different types of people and abilities were detailed and well thought through, and the concept and imaginative aspects involved were impressive, however, I would have preferred to have it shown to me in snippets rather than lengthy dialogue.
I am a fan of large character casts with distinct personalities, and this book certainly had a vast array of characters with their own back stories that interweave into Gabrian's story arc. I can not fault Cook's character development, or her ability to narrate well rounded relationships, considering the complex world building that takes place within the narrative. However, the book felt considerably lengthy.
January 23, 2018
The most amazing book I have ever had the privilege of reading! Kade captures your attention like no other and sends you on a wild adventure with magical twists and turns! 5/5 stars! my favorite novel in existence!
January 30, 2018
Book Review
Grey (Covenant of Shadows, Book 1)
By Kade Cook
Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Grey is Canadian author Kade Cook's first novel. It is the first book in the The Covenant of Shadows young adult fantasy series.
Gabrian Shadwell is young professional psychologist who has every aspect of her life under control…. until one day, she doesn’t. In a manner of hours, her whole world is turned upside down as she discovers that her family and close friends have been guarding important secrets from her. She learns of the existence of a whole new world, full of magic and wonder. She develops powers beyond her imagination. Powers that she cannot seem to control. As she comes to grips with all of this, she realizes that there are people out for her head. She must figure out who her allies and enemies are… before it’s too late.
I enjoyed the book so much that I read it twice. The characters are well developed, the writing is superb, the pace is engaging, and the plot keeps you always on edge, wondering what will happen next. I was delightfully surprised by this novel and I think that anyone who takes the time to read it will too.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the young adult fantasy genre. To give you an idea, it reminded me a lot of the Mortal Instrument series by Cassandra Clare except that I thought it was better.
Kade Cook's blog: https://kadecookbooks.wordpress.com/
Buy from Amazon.ca: https://www.amazon.com/Grey-Covenant-...
Yves Robichaud
Author of Kaylen’s Rising (Tomes of Taria, Book 1)
www.facebook.com/KaylensRising
www.twitter.com/@yvesr72
www.yvesrobichaud.com
Grey (Covenant of Shadows, Book 1)
By Kade Cook
Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Grey is Canadian author Kade Cook's first novel. It is the first book in the The Covenant of Shadows young adult fantasy series.
Gabrian Shadwell is young professional psychologist who has every aspect of her life under control…. until one day, she doesn’t. In a manner of hours, her whole world is turned upside down as she discovers that her family and close friends have been guarding important secrets from her. She learns of the existence of a whole new world, full of magic and wonder. She develops powers beyond her imagination. Powers that she cannot seem to control. As she comes to grips with all of this, she realizes that there are people out for her head. She must figure out who her allies and enemies are… before it’s too late.
I enjoyed the book so much that I read it twice. The characters are well developed, the writing is superb, the pace is engaging, and the plot keeps you always on edge, wondering what will happen next. I was delightfully surprised by this novel and I think that anyone who takes the time to read it will too.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the young adult fantasy genre. To give you an idea, it reminded me a lot of the Mortal Instrument series by Cassandra Clare except that I thought it was better.
Kade Cook's blog: https://kadecookbooks.wordpress.com/
Buy from Amazon.ca: https://www.amazon.com/Grey-Covenant-...
Yves Robichaud
Author of Kaylen’s Rising (Tomes of Taria, Book 1)
www.facebook.com/KaylensRising
www.twitter.com/@yvesr72
www.yvesrobichaud.com
June 30, 2018
This was a solid 3.5 star read for me!🌟 I loved the concept & characters I just didn't love the pace, I like my fantasy books to move faster. That is a personal preference so don't hold it against the book as it's fascinating!!😊
Gabrian, Gabe for short, is a practicing Psychologist in Manhattan, her bestfriend since college is her office manager. She took the practice over from her Dad when her parents retired to the Coast!! She's a very logical thinker by nature & training.
Some strange things start occurring with her. She thinks she's possibly seeing auras but it's not all the time so she dismisses it. Then she reacts strangely to a drink and passes out. More & more things are happening & she keeps dismissing them as she doesn't want to question her own sanity!! When her bf, Rachel, suggests she visits her parents for an extended Christmas break🎄 She agrees but whilst she's out on a run before the trip something bad happens which can no longer be ignored. This means tht truths need to be admitted to her immediately!!!😳 She is taken to her parents & her Mum starts to explain everything. Gabe's life is never going to be the same again!!!⚡🍃❄🔥
This is a totally new take on Vampire's, Mage's etc and for me and I loved that about this book!!💖 The characters are mostly likeable, Ethan was my favourite 😊 The plot was really good too. I'd definitely read book 2 but I'd be hoping that Gabe starts to open up to her friends about the other things happening to her regarding her abilities & that she'd toughen up and want some revenge 😉🙏 Being smart isn't enough, she needs to be badass now 😂
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
Debbie, 1970, UK
Gabrian, Gabe for short, is a practicing Psychologist in Manhattan, her bestfriend since college is her office manager. She took the practice over from her Dad when her parents retired to the Coast!! She's a very logical thinker by nature & training.
Some strange things start occurring with her. She thinks she's possibly seeing auras but it's not all the time so she dismisses it. Then she reacts strangely to a drink and passes out. More & more things are happening & she keeps dismissing them as she doesn't want to question her own sanity!! When her bf, Rachel, suggests she visits her parents for an extended Christmas break🎄 She agrees but whilst she's out on a run before the trip something bad happens which can no longer be ignored. This means tht truths need to be admitted to her immediately!!!😳 She is taken to her parents & her Mum starts to explain everything. Gabe's life is never going to be the same again!!!⚡🍃❄🔥
This is a totally new take on Vampire's, Mage's etc and for me and I loved that about this book!!💖 The characters are mostly likeable, Ethan was my favourite 😊 The plot was really good too. I'd definitely read book 2 but I'd be hoping that Gabe starts to open up to her friends about the other things happening to her regarding her abilities & that she'd toughen up and want some revenge 😉🙏 Being smart isn't enough, she needs to be badass now 😂
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
Debbie, 1970, UK
February 9, 2017
EXCELLENT, IMAGINATIVE & CAPTIVATING!!!, November 11, 2016
Why did I choose 5 stars? You read it & see if you give it fewer stars.
Gabrian is about to embark on a journey that is about to shatter all that she believes to be reality as she knows. She is thrown into a world where she feels the contempt others have toward her and those like her. She worries that she won't be able to keep things under control which is why she agrees to training with Ethan.
What exactly is a Borrower!!!
Some of the Elders have little faith that she can keep it together and they worry about setting her free on an unsuspecting world. Gabrian finds the Elders quite frightening in their own right.
I love the way the author has used the various elements including the shadows throughout the book, I found it quite different and refreshing as well as intriguing and well written. The characters have been well thought out and prepared. I adore Gabrian and have a loathing for Ayden.
I urge you to purchase the book and read it as you will not be disappointed in the least. I cannot wait for book two please Kate Cook.
Why did I choose 5 stars? You read it & see if you give it fewer stars.
Gabrian is about to embark on a journey that is about to shatter all that she believes to be reality as she knows. She is thrown into a world where she feels the contempt others have toward her and those like her. She worries that she won't be able to keep things under control which is why she agrees to training with Ethan.
What exactly is a Borrower!!!
Some of the Elders have little faith that she can keep it together and they worry about setting her free on an unsuspecting world. Gabrian finds the Elders quite frightening in their own right.
I love the way the author has used the various elements including the shadows throughout the book, I found it quite different and refreshing as well as intriguing and well written. The characters have been well thought out and prepared. I adore Gabrian and have a loathing for Ayden.
I urge you to purchase the book and read it as you will not be disappointed in the least. I cannot wait for book two please Kate Cook.
October 24, 2017
Kade gives an amazing unique twist on the vampire theme. There were quite a few surprises and there were constant moments where I'd be chewing my fingers and turning the pages as fast as I could, anxious to see what was going to happen. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!
December 15, 2018
I really the story. I wasn't a huge fan of Twilight because it was so wimpy, although I like the movies. Grey isn't wimpy at all. In fact, Grabrian is a character with some heart and soul and grit. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
July 30, 2018
This was a complete bore buried under about three tons of violets. Which is my lingo for purple prose. I mean, look at this shit:
Just because you can describe something in 26 words doesn't mean you should. "She smiled, revealing dimples." was fine too y'know.
This writing style totally kills the book because it pads everything down into the ground. Like barely anything happens in this, the characters are as flat as they can get, the world-building and magic- sorry, magik- is the barest backstory anything can give. The plot has nothing original in it and hit all the genre clichés. I can't even think of one good thing in this- even the names sucked!
MC Gadrian is supposed to be 26, but she reads more like she's 16. As soon as her friend mentions how hot her client is, she can't stop herself from ogling him- which makes zero sense since she's been seeing this guy for weeks and the fact that she needs someone else to tell her how attractive he is really doesn't help with the illusion that our main character is autonomous. This happens with every guy, too. She sees them and giggles like a preteen before falling hopelessly in love without all the worries a working adult would have- how old is he? does he still go to school? does he have a job? does he live with his parents? what are his familial and professional goals? etc.
She barely has any personality and as with her love life, the stress-handling part of her brain stopped growing when she was 16. This bitch loses her mind as soon as her friend shows up with explanations about what's been happening lately and TRIES TO KILL EVERYONE
I WOULD EXPECT THAT FROM A CREEPYPASTA OC NOT A 26-years-old with a career and apartment. She's also incredibly stupid; when her parents tell her the story of a boy and a girl who did it and had a kid, she needs her mom to tell her that yes, she was that child. Nevermind that moments before they'd just revealed she was adopted.
And that story, which is basically the love story from the Star Wars prequels, takes up about 50 pages to tell us nothing new. I can't even tell you how many paragraphs could've been put into one sentence. But the gist of it as that poor boy meets rich girl; dad beats boy; girl gives boy magic; boy goes crazy, leaves, comes back; girl does boy; boy does murder; girl does birthing; boy is banished and baby is adopted.
She literally refers to periods as 'womanly visitor' I'm sorry w a t
Then a guy shows up out of nowhere- my guess is he read the script- and him and Gadrian hit it off shuper well and they have fun. Next chapter it's revealed he's also one of these witches things and WHAT WERE THE ODDS THAT WOULD HAPPEN but this guy's main deal (I say that but it's like introduced out of nowhere when it becomes important) is that his parents were killed by Vampires so he totally hates Borrowers, who can become Vampires, meaning now he hates Gadrian.
*when you thought Sasuke was bad*
Gadrian's and that + the guy's rejection of her somehow pushes her to become a Vampire. Like it made no sense, because the whole book she was mad that people just assumed that since she was a Borrower, she'd become a Vampire and her parents were like the most supportive people telling her that she was what her actions made her to be etc. and she calls out the guy's nonsensical grudge immediately, but instead of proving him wrong and making her parents proud she just immediately goes off the deep end and wants to become a Vampire.
I like characters losing grips on sanity and becoming monsters but there needs to be build-up? Breaking Jade did it brilliantly and it was awesome and sad AND the writing was good without being FUCKING PURPLE. Because you might paint your shit blue and add a few violets, but it's still gonna be shit, unlike when an author actually cares about his characters and to make sure the impact of things can be felt by the reader- and in that case who fucking cares how pretty the writing is because look, GOOD CHARACTERS.
And Sasuke finds her eating people and is all comprehensive and stuff and does a deal with her to go back to school and learn about her powers, but when the Borrower instructors show up he's all glares and murder WHEN HE FORGAVE THE BITCH EATING PEOPLE BEFORE HIS EYES??? Like this was so fucking bad he hated her when he learned she was a Borrower and wanted to fucking kill her but when he sees she's AN ACTUAL VAMPIRE he's just 'eh it can be helped' DOES NOT COMPUTE???
This is if one of those idiots saying addiction is a choice came across an addict and was like 'oh yeah it's though but you need to get better and while I know it's going to be hard I also know that you can do it' and then he goes back to spouting his earlier bullshit? Like can please someone direct me to the logic.
There's more but just assume that everything this book contains is bad. Gadrian's powers sucks, the magicians have no real presence, I felt nothing for the characters because they talked like robots without any apostrophes, there's literally no story, Gadrian's friend was just a fancy alarm for the elders, the prologue is one of the most terribly written, useless things my eyes have ever seen and there's way too many chapters with the villains. Also, a big part of them end in these wanna-be funny ways like Gadrian asking how the elders like giraffes when pulling at her pajamas or another trying a one liner after beating the villain and it was SO out of place and character I got chills.
Skip it and watch Konosuba instead.
The delicate folds in the center of Mrs. Argryis's cheeks surface as her lips press impishly upwards at the corners.
Just because you can describe something in 26 words doesn't mean you should. "She smiled, revealing dimples." was fine too y'know.
This writing style totally kills the book because it pads everything down into the ground. Like barely anything happens in this, the characters are as flat as they can get, the world-building and magic- sorry, magik- is the barest backstory anything can give. The plot has nothing original in it and hit all the genre clichés. I can't even think of one good thing in this- even the names sucked!
MC Gadrian is supposed to be 26, but she reads more like she's 16. As soon as her friend mentions how hot her client is, she can't stop herself from ogling him- which makes zero sense since she's been seeing this guy for weeks and the fact that she needs someone else to tell her how attractive he is really doesn't help with the illusion that our main character is autonomous. This happens with every guy, too. She sees them and giggles like a preteen before falling hopelessly in love without all the worries a working adult would have- how old is he? does he still go to school? does he have a job? does he live with his parents? what are his familial and professional goals? etc.
She barely has any personality and as with her love life, the stress-handling part of her brain stopped growing when she was 16. This bitch loses her mind as soon as her friend shows up with explanations about what's been happening lately and TRIES TO KILL EVERYONE
I WOULD EXPECT THAT FROM A CREEPYPASTA OC NOT A 26-years-old with a career and apartment. She's also incredibly stupid; when her parents tell her the story of a boy and a girl who did it and had a kid, she needs her mom to tell her that yes, she was that child. Nevermind that moments before they'd just revealed she was adopted.
And that story, which is basically the love story from the Star Wars prequels, takes up about 50 pages to tell us nothing new. I can't even tell you how many paragraphs could've been put into one sentence. But the gist of it as that poor boy meets rich girl; dad beats boy; girl gives boy magic; boy goes crazy, leaves, comes back; girl does boy; boy does murder; girl does birthing; boy is banished and baby is adopted.
She literally refers to periods as 'womanly visitor' I'm sorry w a t
Then a guy shows up out of nowhere- my guess is he read the script- and him and Gadrian hit it off shuper well and they have fun. Next chapter it's revealed he's also one of these witches things and WHAT WERE THE ODDS THAT WOULD HAPPEN but this guy's main deal (I say that but it's like introduced out of nowhere when it becomes important) is that his parents were killed by Vampires so he totally hates Borrowers, who can become Vampires, meaning now he hates Gadrian.
*when you thought Sasuke was bad*
Gadrian's and that + the guy's rejection of her somehow pushes her to become a Vampire. Like it made no sense, because the whole book she was mad that people just assumed that since she was a Borrower, she'd become a Vampire and her parents were like the most supportive people telling her that she was what her actions made her to be etc. and she calls out the guy's nonsensical grudge immediately, but instead of proving him wrong and making her parents proud she just immediately goes off the deep end and wants to become a Vampire.
I like characters losing grips on sanity and becoming monsters but there needs to be build-up? Breaking Jade did it brilliantly and it was awesome and sad AND the writing was good without being FUCKING PURPLE. Because you might paint your shit blue and add a few violets, but it's still gonna be shit, unlike when an author actually cares about his characters and to make sure the impact of things can be felt by the reader- and in that case who fucking cares how pretty the writing is because look, GOOD CHARACTERS.
And Sasuke finds her eating people and is all comprehensive and stuff and does a deal with her to go back to school and learn about her powers, but when the Borrower instructors show up he's all glares and murder WHEN HE FORGAVE THE BITCH EATING PEOPLE BEFORE HIS EYES??? Like this was so fucking bad he hated her when he learned she was a Borrower and wanted to fucking kill her but when he sees she's AN ACTUAL VAMPIRE he's just 'eh it can be helped' DOES NOT COMPUTE???
This is if one of those idiots saying addiction is a choice came across an addict and was like 'oh yeah it's though but you need to get better and while I know it's going to be hard I also know that you can do it' and then he goes back to spouting his earlier bullshit? Like can please someone direct me to the logic.
There's more but just assume that everything this book contains is bad. Gadrian's powers sucks, the magicians have no real presence, I felt nothing for the characters because they talked like robots without any apostrophes, there's literally no story, Gadrian's friend was just a fancy alarm for the elders, the prologue is one of the most terribly written, useless things my eyes have ever seen and there's way too many chapters with the villains. Also, a big part of them end in these wanna-be funny ways like Gadrian asking how the elders like giraffes when pulling at her pajamas or another trying a one liner after beating the villain and it was SO out of place and character I got chills.
Skip it and watch Konosuba instead.
November 21, 2020
An original and enjoyable read.
‘Grey’ is an urban fantasy novel characterised by mystery and suspense with elements of romance. The paranormal world that exists alongside the regular human world is unique, with its own well-organised social structures, fellowships sorted by supernatural abilities, and a sophisticated set of rules that both complicate and drive the story of Gabrian Shadwell and the unexpected turn that her life takes.
The characters are varied and interesting. Their behaviour and priorities make the story more complex, and their secrets and hidden agendas keep both the reader and the other characters guessing. The experiences of Gabrian and the other characters encourage the reader to consider their own ideas about trust and reliability, friendship, and what matters most when hard decisions have to be made.
This is an original and enjoyable read, particularly good for a fictional escape from the demands of a busy life
‘Grey’ is an urban fantasy novel characterised by mystery and suspense with elements of romance. The paranormal world that exists alongside the regular human world is unique, with its own well-organised social structures, fellowships sorted by supernatural abilities, and a sophisticated set of rules that both complicate and drive the story of Gabrian Shadwell and the unexpected turn that her life takes.
The characters are varied and interesting. Their behaviour and priorities make the story more complex, and their secrets and hidden agendas keep both the reader and the other characters guessing. The experiences of Gabrian and the other characters encourage the reader to consider their own ideas about trust and reliability, friendship, and what matters most when hard decisions have to be made.
This is an original and enjoyable read, particularly good for a fictional escape from the demands of a busy life
June 28, 2018
Actual rating 3.5 I'd like to thank the author for providing me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book has all the makings to become a great series. Kade Cook does such a great job of laying the foundations for series. The world-building, characters, and magic system are well thought out and creative. The characters all develop at the perfect pace, and the arc is gradual throughout the story. Gabrian's character arc is especially well done, you can see how much more she'll develop throughout the series. The magic system is also developed with a good basis here.
While I overall enjoyed this book there were a few things that kept pulling me out of the story. I feel that, while the story was very detailed, it had almost too much detail. I was so confused for the first 50-70 pages until I could finally see where the story line was going. A lot of the details and descriptions could have been condensed and streamlined a bit for more clarity. When describing a magic system I like a bit more "show" than "tell". A few times I found myself feeling like things were a bit repetitive and unnecessary, to the point where I wondered why certain details were necessary to the plot. The last 100 pages of the story really takes off with twists and turns everywhere setting up nicely for the next book.
I think this could be a good series and now that a lot of the set up is done hopefully the next one has a bit more action to it.
This book has all the makings to become a great series. Kade Cook does such a great job of laying the foundations for series. The world-building, characters, and magic system are well thought out and creative. The characters all develop at the perfect pace, and the arc is gradual throughout the story. Gabrian's character arc is especially well done, you can see how much more she'll develop throughout the series. The magic system is also developed with a good basis here.
While I overall enjoyed this book there were a few things that kept pulling me out of the story. I feel that, while the story was very detailed, it had almost too much detail. I was so confused for the first 50-70 pages until I could finally see where the story line was going. A lot of the details and descriptions could have been condensed and streamlined a bit for more clarity. When describing a magic system I like a bit more "show" than "tell". A few times I found myself feeling like things were a bit repetitive and unnecessary, to the point where I wondered why certain details were necessary to the plot. The last 100 pages of the story really takes off with twists and turns everywhere setting up nicely for the next book.
I think this could be a good series and now that a lot of the set up is done hopefully the next one has a bit more action to it.
January 16, 2019
Gabrian works as a big city psychologist but is beginning to feel like she’s losing her mind. She is starting to see auras surrounding the people she comes into contact with. Some give off vibrant, beautiful sensations that she longs to feel and taste while others seem dark and dangerous. Taking the advice of her long-time friend and receptionist, she returns home to Maine for the holidays only to find her parents have secrets they’re ready to reveal. Gabrian finds out more than she’s ready to accept about her life and many of her associates. She also finds a bit of romance along the way.
This is an amazing and creative world the author has created. Because of Gabrian’s bloodline she requires training before she inadvertently harms someone she cares about. There is a lot of information given to the reader all at once which I struggled with, but the story itself was quite intriguing. Highly recommended Paranormal and Urban Fantasy.
This is an amazing and creative world the author has created. Because of Gabrian’s bloodline she requires training before she inadvertently harms someone she cares about. There is a lot of information given to the reader all at once which I struggled with, but the story itself was quite intriguing. Highly recommended Paranormal and Urban Fantasy.
January 20, 2019
Review
This is a marvellous start to a fantasy series I absolutely loved it. I relish the unusual and this book fits the bill admirably. It is wonderfully creepy and full of paranormal goings on to delight the heart of anyone seeking a different take on vampires and the supernatural. Of course there is a love interest where would we be without that lol? Read and enjoy, I did.
This is a marvellous start to a fantasy series I absolutely loved it. I relish the unusual and this book fits the bill admirably. It is wonderfully creepy and full of paranormal goings on to delight the heart of anyone seeking a different take on vampires and the supernatural. Of course there is a love interest where would we be without that lol? Read and enjoy, I did.
January 8, 2019
Already looking for info on the next book.
Good series and looking forward to it continuing.
Good series and looking forward to it continuing.
June 23, 2018
I’m not going to lie, I found this book a little slow at the start, and difficult to push through at the beginning due to the onslaught of information tidbits and third-person POV (which I’m usually not a fan of, but I acknowledge that this POV did make it easier to keep track of all the names, etc. earlier on). However, about 1/3 of the way through, I found myself unwilling to stop reading. While there were quite a few moments I found myself wanting to slap some common sense into many of characters, I was continually drawn in by the layers of background/history and enjoyed how every character had a time (and reason) when then toed the black-and-white line many members of the Realm hold onto.
I love the complexities of each secondary character; Kade did a great job of teasing how each character in the series has a very real, very complex backstory, without telling us everything up front, and it is those backstories that made me want to immediately pick up the next book.
3/5 Stars, simply because the main character (sadly) gets on my nerves, which made the book a lot harder to push through, even when I wanted to.
**this is my honest review of an ARC copy**
I love the complexities of each secondary character; Kade did a great job of teasing how each character in the series has a very real, very complex backstory, without telling us everything up front, and it is those backstories that made me want to immediately pick up the next book.
3/5 Stars, simply because the main character (sadly) gets on my nerves, which made the book a lot harder to push through, even when I wanted to.
**this is my honest review of an ARC copy**
October 22, 2018
Interesting book
The story line was an interesting one. The characters were very good. This was a human world who also had four different types of magical beings as well. A bit confusing at times but this book was fast paced and kept my interest.
The story line was an interesting one. The characters were very good. This was a human world who also had four different types of magical beings as well. A bit confusing at times but this book was fast paced and kept my interest.
June 21, 2018
Loved this book. An interesting twist to magic and real life. Loved the characters and the plot. Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
June 18, 2018
Wonderful, story that pulled me in and wouldn't let go. Ups and downs, back and forth always changing. Very intriguing storyline. Can't hardly wait to read the next in the series.
December 1, 2018
Potential
This book had the potential to be amazing.It's very hard to criticize someone as creative as this author is.The plot was great the creativeness was stunning and off the charts.The over description in the narration is what the problem was for me.It's good to be descriptive to help the reader visualize what's taking place,but in this case it was just way over done.To many words for nothing it weighed the book down,and made it hard to wade through all the material just to get the story.In the end I'm glad that I read the book because it was a very good story ,I just didn't care for the way it was told.Three stars.
This book had the potential to be amazing.It's very hard to criticize someone as creative as this author is.The plot was great the creativeness was stunning and off the charts.The over description in the narration is what the problem was for me.It's good to be descriptive to help the reader visualize what's taking place,but in this case it was just way over done.To many words for nothing it weighed the book down,and made it hard to wade through all the material just to get the story.In the end I'm glad that I read the book because it was a very good story ,I just didn't care for the way it was told.Three stars.
September 28, 2018
Gabrian is a successful psychologist, with her own studio, but after meeting a new client, her life suddenly changes. Faced with the reality of what she is, she has to learn to come to terms with it or risk destroying her life.
This is a vampire story with a difference - instead of feeding on blood, they feed on people's auras, which adds an interesting touch to the story. The author has created a great fantasy world, with different types of creatures who try to work together to keep harmony between themselves, and the unusual villain, who creates havoc instead.
I enjoyed reading it, and looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
This is a vampire story with a difference - instead of feeding on blood, they feed on people's auras, which adds an interesting touch to the story. The author has created a great fantasy world, with different types of creatures who try to work together to keep harmony between themselves, and the unusual villain, who creates havoc instead.
I enjoyed reading it, and looking forward to reading the next books in the series.
August 15, 2016
What should a psychiatrist do if she fears she’s going insane?
That’s a problem Gabrian Shadwell must answer. She’s based her life on the logical, so when she learns things aren’t as black and white as she once believed, it’s hard to cope. Her entire life is a lie, and one by one, her eyes are opened to the truth of her situation. She’s not just a human—she has gifts. A Borrower, she’s known as, which in the Realm of her people can be considered both a blessing and a curse.
Gabrian must decide which she will become.
I personally loved this story! It was so creative and spunky that it was deeply engrossing throughout. Gabrian’s character was very strong and believable. She was a capable protagonist from start to finish. I also thought the villain of the story, Adrinn, was quite humorous with all of his quirks.
That’s a problem Gabrian Shadwell must answer. She’s based her life on the logical, so when she learns things aren’t as black and white as she once believed, it’s hard to cope. Her entire life is a lie, and one by one, her eyes are opened to the truth of her situation. She’s not just a human—she has gifts. A Borrower, she’s known as, which in the Realm of her people can be considered both a blessing and a curse.
Gabrian must decide which she will become.
I personally loved this story! It was so creative and spunky that it was deeply engrossing throughout. Gabrian’s character was very strong and believable. She was a capable protagonist from start to finish. I also thought the villain of the story, Adrinn, was quite humorous with all of his quirks.
March 25, 2018
What can I say, this book is amazing though at the start it can be alittle confusing if you push through it’s definitely worth it...I won’t give any spoilers but it has everything a good fantasy book needs. On to the next book!!!!
July 3, 2018
I liked this book. I liked the premise and I love books with any type of fantasy and discovery of powers. I also love the character being a psychologist. I am wrapped up in both of those notions. However, despite being intriguing enough to follow through, many ideas and even grammar conventions made the character fall flat for me. It read like an English paper. No character speaks without contractions and that was distracting for me. "I could not believe it" would be an example.
The story line was intriguing and I would read more if I could get a character who is more multi-dimensional.
The story line was intriguing and I would read more if I could get a character who is more multi-dimensional.
January 18, 2024
Not sure what has the author writing in the manner that’s written but it’s off-putting. The premise of the story is good, the execution needs a lot of work.
Gabrian does not know her heritage, there’s no information to indicate a belief in the supernatural, yet she starts seeing auras and barely has any disbelief reaction, she just defines what she’s seeing and keeps it pushing. It was not realistic at all. She oftentimes was also not very likeable. Her arrogance and sarcastic thoughts after she nearly killed three people, then irrationally attacked people in her home who were just talking to her, trying to explain to her hat happened and who she is and they are, and this is the attitude? She is not justified in hr indignation that is too many times present. She needed a serious come to Jesus meeting. Why was Gabrian always lying and keeping things that occurred to herself? She’s supposed to be learning, getting training that she’s extremely behind on. She’s mad about having to meet with someone weekly for six months to monitor her progress and grasp of new powers she just got access to and attend a school designated to those of the Realm It was ridiculous. I’m seriously doubting her being a psychologist who has been practicing for several years, yet she keeps an”secret friend” like she’s a young child? Blindly follows him? Author chose the wrong profession for Gabrian in writing the character as was done.
Also Gabrian suddenly knows how to block her mind, shield it from others of the Realm, despite NEVER having such knowledge or experience of such? It doesn’t make sense.
Much of the story is being narrated, instead of having the reader in the story. Things were told instead of the character learning of it and how we readers know it. Example in chapter 8 where Gabrian is affecting those around her and the author narrates - “…, but unbeknownst to Gabrian, she is also causing the humans around her to become disoriented. The more light she draws in from them, the more drainage is putting on the life force that they survive on.” It continues to narrate from there instead of the reader experiencing things through the character, who does not know this is going on and the reader should also not know those details. This is something that should have been discussed by another character with Gabrian. At this point I’m seriously considering dropping this book, but wanting to give it more of a chance. Another later example - “ Orroryn and Ethan glance at each other briefly with a grin drawn on their faces at her wide-eyed childlike fascination. They explain to her that the wall was manifested as a gift …” Narrative instead of one of them talking to Gabrian.
And for the love of all that’s right in the world, STOP with the cliche writing of female waitstaff flirting with a man who’s seated with a woman, openly being disrespectful!! Tips are a large portion of waitstaff’s earnings, WHY would they guarantee little to no tip from a table? It’s ridiculous. Sick of reading that foolishness.
Were told what’s going on or happened rather than Gabriel and Shane interacting. There’s zero connection with that.
And why are two grown women referring to men as boys? Rachael says to Gabrian about giving Shane a call that there’s no reason for her to be afraid of anything, let alone talking to some human boy? Boy? Really? Guy or man is appropriate, boy is not. They are too old for that. Gabrian is mid to upper 20s, Rachael older than that.
And why was someone who is supposed to be a Shadow Walker Guardian be trained for it when they have ill-will bigotry towards an entire group because of a couple individuals that killed his parents. I didn’t make sense for that person to be bestowed a supposed great honor of guarding someone they detest based on bigotry.
Shane’s supposed to be a highly trained warrior, yet he’s going to “wing it” in saving Gabrian? He contacts no one, takes Rachael with him as “backup” because, yeah, that makes sense instead of contacting other shadow warriors. Thankfully, Rachael has some sense.
We had the cliché villain who talks too much, and a cliché suppose hero who engages in conversation with cliche villain instead of taking appropriate action. Those that do show up have no ability to do anything, and they’re supposed to be the highest being they’re on the council? And one that is purported to be most powerful isn’t even among them?! The one in the beginning of the book who is said is able to knock out every council other member?
All that goes on in the end, and they never confront Gabrian on her actions? Never have a discussion about all that went on and how she played a part, and once again harming others? There’s just a brief mention about Ethan, talking to her about things that went on.
Both Ethan and Rachael were supports for Gabrian yet she thinks the vampire was the “only one who took her side when she needed it most” What? And they refer to the villain only as a vampire, rather than telling her what his name is? And what reason did he have to be bothering her when she was a little girl that was never made clear and how could it be made clear, it wouldn’t make sense since she was magically protected and thought she was human.
There is a lack of consistency, syntax for how the characters speak is off, there is not a good flow to things happening, things that should follow there’s just an absence.
Gabrian does not know her heritage, there’s no information to indicate a belief in the supernatural, yet she starts seeing auras and barely has any disbelief reaction, she just defines what she’s seeing and keeps it pushing. It was not realistic at all. She oftentimes was also not very likeable. Her arrogance and sarcastic thoughts after she nearly killed three people, then irrationally attacked people in her home who were just talking to her, trying to explain to her hat happened and who she is and they are, and this is the attitude? She is not justified in hr indignation that is too many times present. She needed a serious come to Jesus meeting. Why was Gabrian always lying and keeping things that occurred to herself? She’s supposed to be learning, getting training that she’s extremely behind on. She’s mad about having to meet with someone weekly for six months to monitor her progress and grasp of new powers she just got access to and attend a school designated to those of the Realm It was ridiculous. I’m seriously doubting her being a psychologist who has been practicing for several years, yet she keeps an”secret friend” like she’s a young child? Blindly follows him? Author chose the wrong profession for Gabrian in writing the character as was done.
Also Gabrian suddenly knows how to block her mind, shield it from others of the Realm, despite NEVER having such knowledge or experience of such? It doesn’t make sense.
Much of the story is being narrated, instead of having the reader in the story. Things were told instead of the character learning of it and how we readers know it. Example in chapter 8 where Gabrian is affecting those around her and the author narrates - “…, but unbeknownst to Gabrian, she is also causing the humans around her to become disoriented. The more light she draws in from them, the more drainage is putting on the life force that they survive on.” It continues to narrate from there instead of the reader experiencing things through the character, who does not know this is going on and the reader should also not know those details. This is something that should have been discussed by another character with Gabrian. At this point I’m seriously considering dropping this book, but wanting to give it more of a chance. Another later example - “ Orroryn and Ethan glance at each other briefly with a grin drawn on their faces at her wide-eyed childlike fascination. They explain to her that the wall was manifested as a gift …” Narrative instead of one of them talking to Gabrian.
And for the love of all that’s right in the world, STOP with the cliche writing of female waitstaff flirting with a man who’s seated with a woman, openly being disrespectful!! Tips are a large portion of waitstaff’s earnings, WHY would they guarantee little to no tip from a table? It’s ridiculous. Sick of reading that foolishness.
Were told what’s going on or happened rather than Gabriel and Shane interacting. There’s zero connection with that.
And why are two grown women referring to men as boys? Rachael says to Gabrian about giving Shane a call that there’s no reason for her to be afraid of anything, let alone talking to some human boy? Boy? Really? Guy or man is appropriate, boy is not. They are too old for that. Gabrian is mid to upper 20s, Rachael older than that.
And why was someone who is supposed to be a Shadow Walker Guardian be trained for it when they have ill-will bigotry towards an entire group because of a couple individuals that killed his parents. I didn’t make sense for that person to be bestowed a supposed great honor of guarding someone they detest based on bigotry.
Shane’s supposed to be a highly trained warrior, yet he’s going to “wing it” in saving Gabrian? He contacts no one, takes Rachael with him as “backup” because, yeah, that makes sense instead of contacting other shadow warriors. Thankfully, Rachael has some sense.
We had the cliché villain who talks too much, and a cliché suppose hero who engages in conversation with cliche villain instead of taking appropriate action. Those that do show up have no ability to do anything, and they’re supposed to be the highest being they’re on the council? And one that is purported to be most powerful isn’t even among them?! The one in the beginning of the book who is said is able to knock out every council other member?
All that goes on in the end, and they never confront Gabrian on her actions? Never have a discussion about all that went on and how she played a part, and once again harming others? There’s just a brief mention about Ethan, talking to her about things that went on.
Both Ethan and Rachael were supports for Gabrian yet she thinks the vampire was the “only one who took her side when she needed it most” What? And they refer to the villain only as a vampire, rather than telling her what his name is? And what reason did he have to be bothering her when she was a little girl that was never made clear and how could it be made clear, it wouldn’t make sense since she was magically protected and thought she was human.
There is a lack of consistency, syntax for how the characters speak is off, there is not a good flow to things happening, things that should follow there’s just an absence.
August 25, 2016
This book has great story plot and good character narration, however with better transitioning between the chapters and better beginning, this book could have been a really great read.
For more detail insights into the book visit: http://the-empty-pages.blogspot.in/20...
For more detail insights into the book visit: http://the-empty-pages.blogspot.in/20...
April 10, 2019
I didn’t want to rate this one star. I wanted to love it. It’s by a local author, the main character is my favourite trope (half-blood with a destiny), and I never want to hate a book. And I didn’t hate it, but the writing is so bad that it was a chore to get through the 200 pages I read before I gave up.
November 7, 2016
What a surprise! Great book! Hard to put down once I started. It was easy to read and understand. I am looking forward to the sequels.”
Read
October 18, 2019Read for the Fantasy Hive team as part of SPFBO5:
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/10/sp...
I was actually excited by the tagline for this:
WARNING: May contain unstable magic, supernaturals and vampires.
Vampires are a big hit or miss for me. I grew up in the years of UNDERWORLD (hit) and TWILIGHT (miss). Once bitten, twice shy or so the saying goes.
Would you steal life to save your own?
Even a Vampire has gotta appreciate these stakes!
One-click now to summon your copy and dive into a mystical new world today.
Okay, I might have lol’d a little.
But that’s pretty much all that I liked about this. That’s not to say I disliked it, it’s just not for me.
Removing my personal opinion on the subject matter, and reviewing objectively based on merit, GREY reads like it’s trying to be poetic prose, with trimmings of purpose and poise and prophecy… but nope, it’s just very purple. Trying to see the story through the words is like trying to see the woods through the trees. The writing style definitely bites off more than it can chew (especially if you’re trying to read this out loud – something I try when I’m having difficulty adjusting to an author’s voice) and it could do with a good beta read and edit to file those fangs down to a point.
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/10/sp...
I was actually excited by the tagline for this:
WARNING: May contain unstable magic, supernaturals and vampires.
Vampires are a big hit or miss for me. I grew up in the years of UNDERWORLD (hit) and TWILIGHT (miss). Once bitten, twice shy or so the saying goes.
Would you steal life to save your own?
Even a Vampire has gotta appreciate these stakes!
One-click now to summon your copy and dive into a mystical new world today.
Okay, I might have lol’d a little.
But that’s pretty much all that I liked about this. That’s not to say I disliked it, it’s just not for me.
Removing my personal opinion on the subject matter, and reviewing objectively based on merit, GREY reads like it’s trying to be poetic prose, with trimmings of purpose and poise and prophecy… but nope, it’s just very purple. Trying to see the story through the words is like trying to see the woods through the trees. The writing style definitely bites off more than it can chew (especially if you’re trying to read this out loud – something I try when I’m having difficulty adjusting to an author’s voice) and it could do with a good beta read and edit to file those fangs down to a point.
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