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We're the D'Artigo Sisters: Half-human, half-Faerie, we're savvy--and sexy--operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. But our mixed-blood heritage short-circuits our talents at all the wrong times. My sister Camille is a wicked-good witch whose magic is as unpredictable as the weather. My sister Delilah transforms into a tabby cat when she's under stress. And me? I'm Menolly, acrobat-extraordinaire-turned-vampire. And I'd give my right fang to make my sire pay for killing me. That is, if he doesn't find me first...
"All over Seattle, humans have been going missing, only to turn up as newborn vampires--the sure sign of a rogue vamp on the loose. It looks like Dredge is to blame. The same sadistic Dredge who gave me my scars, and who may well be in cahoots with the demon Shadow Wing. If so, Otherworld and Earth are screwed. The only way we can hope to defeat Dredge is for me to travel home to Otherworld, where I must face my own demons. Because unless I sever the ties that bind me to Dredge, all hell is going to break loose..."
"All over Seattle, humans have been going missing, only to turn up as newborn vampires--the sure sign of a rogue vamp on the loose. It looks like Dredge is to blame. The same sadistic Dredge who gave me my scars, and who may well be in cahoots with the demon Shadow Wing. If so, Otherworld and Earth are screwed. The only way we can hope to defeat Dredge is for me to travel home to Otherworld, where I must face my own demons. Because unless I sever the ties that bind me to Dredge, all hell is going to break loose..."
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 2, 2008
72 people are currently reading
3182 people want to read
About the author
Yasmine Galenorn
246 books3,472 followersNOTE: I SELDOM visit Goodreads and do very little here. Please see my website for more information on my work: https://galenorn.com
New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author Yasmine Galenorn writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance, and is the author of over 80 books & numerous series, including the Wild Hunt Series, the Moonshadow Bay Series, the Fury Unbound Series, the Otherworld Series, the Bewitching Bedlam Series, and more. She wrote for trad publishers for 20 years until she went indie in 2016.
She’s also written nonfiction metaphysical books. She is the 2011 Career Achievement Award Winner in Urban Fantasy, given by RT Magazine. Yasmine has been in the Craft since 1980, is a shamanic witch and High Priestess. She describes her life as a blend of teacups and tattoos. She lives in Kirkland, WA, with her husband Samwise and their cats. Yasmine can be reached via her web site at Galenorn.com. Sign up for her newsletter at: http://galenorn.com/newsletter/
NOTE: ALWAYS check the website and blog, and please sign up for her newsletter there to keep current with new and upcoming releases. Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter are NOT viable places to find out all this information.
New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author Yasmine Galenorn writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance, and is the author of over 80 books & numerous series, including the Wild Hunt Series, the Moonshadow Bay Series, the Fury Unbound Series, the Otherworld Series, the Bewitching Bedlam Series, and more. She wrote for trad publishers for 20 years until she went indie in 2016.
She’s also written nonfiction metaphysical books. She is the 2011 Career Achievement Award Winner in Urban Fantasy, given by RT Magazine. Yasmine has been in the Craft since 1980, is a shamanic witch and High Priestess. She describes her life as a blend of teacups and tattoos. She lives in Kirkland, WA, with her husband Samwise and their cats. Yasmine can be reached via her web site at Galenorn.com. Sign up for her newsletter at: http://galenorn.com/newsletter/
NOTE: ALWAYS check the website and blog, and please sign up for her newsletter there to keep current with new and upcoming releases. Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter are NOT viable places to find out all this information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
September 25, 2015
After Changeling I honestly didn't expect to like Darkling as much as I did. Some inconsistencies/spelling/grammar issues aside, this was an enjoyable story with almost no romance to speak of.
Darkling is definitely not a paranormal romance. For those interested, there are two sexual scenes in the book and they are used to either move the things forward or to encourage a change in a character. The third D'Artigo sister doesn't fall in love.
The whole story is centred on her sadistic sire Dredge's arrival from Otherworld. We finally find out just how horrible Menolly's turning had been. To have any chance of survival or protection for her family and friends Menolly needs to remember every single torturous moment of that night when Dredge caught her spying on his clan.
Menolly's voice is dark and unapologetic. I liked it.
Darkling is definitely not a paranormal romance. For those interested, there are two sexual scenes in the book and they are used to either move the things forward or to encourage a change in a character. The third D'Artigo sister doesn't fall in love.
The whole story is centred on her sadistic sire Dredge's arrival from Otherworld. We finally find out just how horrible Menolly's turning had been. To have any chance of survival or protection for her family and friends Menolly needs to remember every single torturous moment of that night when Dredge caught her spying on his clan.
Menolly's voice is dark and unapologetic. I liked it.
August 7, 2011
I've just finished Darkling, book three in Yasmine Galenorn’s Otherworld series. It is the first book in the series that I can claim to like. Well...like is too strong a word...let’s go with: I didn’t hate it completely. Not sure whether my semi-enjoyment of this book, as compared to Witchling and Changeling, is due to a more compelling main character or whether I have developed Stockholm Syndrome--that I have been held captive by this series for so long (These short books are loooonnnng reads.) that I am beginning to feel positively toward it.
The Otherworld series follows the half-fae, half-human D’Artigo sisters: Camille, a witch, Delilah, a weretabby, and Menolly, a vampire. The trio are Earthside representatives of a supernatural intelligence agency, and, at least in the inaugural books of the series, the only thing that stands between Earth, Faerie and a demon named Shadow Wing that is bent on domination of multiple worlds. If, as I hinted in the first paragraph, I find the series painful, why ever was I inclined to read the third book in the sequence? I find the foundation story of the Otherworld series compelling: Three sisters with varying supernatural abilities, refugees from a world in political upheaval, balancing personal lives and romance, while kicking ass and keeping the world safe from a demonic big bad. I can get down with that. It’s the writing that made Witchling and Changeling tough reads. Darkling is no exception.
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The Otherworld series follows the half-fae, half-human D’Artigo sisters: Camille, a witch, Delilah, a weretabby, and Menolly, a vampire. The trio are Earthside representatives of a supernatural intelligence agency, and, at least in the inaugural books of the series, the only thing that stands between Earth, Faerie and a demon named Shadow Wing that is bent on domination of multiple worlds. If, as I hinted in the first paragraph, I find the series painful, why ever was I inclined to read the third book in the sequence? I find the foundation story of the Otherworld series compelling: Three sisters with varying supernatural abilities, refugees from a world in political upheaval, balancing personal lives and romance, while kicking ass and keeping the world safe from a demonic big bad. I can get down with that. It’s the writing that made Witchling and Changeling tough reads. Darkling is no exception.
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April 7, 2016
This is the book I chose for the 2016 popsugar challenge. Book set in home state. This book is set mostly in Seattle which is in the same state that I live in. I live around Bellingham.
5 stars
It was nice to finally know what happened to Menolly. Quite sad. Glad that she was able to sever ties with Dredge and finally end him. Will Menolly find love? When is Shadow With g finally going to show up? Nice to have a book in Menolly's POV.
5 stars
It was nice to finally know what happened to Menolly. Quite sad. Glad that she was able to sever ties with Dredge and finally end him. Will Menolly find love? When is Shadow With g finally going to show up? Nice to have a book in Menolly's POV.
June 22, 2009
The plot has a little more depth in this one, perhaps because this sister has major inner demons to defeat before she can get on with her life. She's a considerably more interesting character than Camille and Delilah, albeit bogged down with the cliches that are becoming a trademark with this author. The way Menolly conquers her dark memories and grows into a more mature character is the best part of this book; we see how she's gradually accepting that the people around her love her and aren't trying to antagonize her at every turn, and she's slowly dealing with the disadvantages her new life holds. This character development is something that didn't exist in the previous two novels, and it's a welcome change.
Menolly, perhaps because she's not as happy and preppy as the other two sisters, has a slightly less ridiculous vocabulary at her disposal. She doesn't walk around town calling everyone "dude", "babe" and "hon", something I'm extremely relieved to find. The developments with Nerissa, Roz and Jareth are interesting, and it's irritating that Galenorn didn't bother to spend any time developing them. They're only put there as milestones for Menolly to reach as she goes on her "journey of recovery."
Now, onto the negatives. Once again, Galenorn's bad writing rears its ugly head, although it's slighly less noticeable here than it was in Witchling and Changeling (perhaps because I flipped through this one even faster than the previous two, in order to avoid some of the said bad writing.) From annoying minor grammatical errors (Galenorn, it's 'Camille and I', not "Camille and me") to absolutely glaring ones ("off of the path"?), these things grate on the nerves of the reader. It seriously hinders me from finding any enjoyment in the book when I'm running across those on every single page. New species and characters are still pouring out of Galenorn's head, all without half-decent treatment before they're either killed off or forgotten because they were only placed there as plot points anyway. Once again, explanations for events occurring between Changeling and Darkling were not given; you're simply expected to accept it and move on. And some of the characters and plot points that Galenorn inserts are bordering on the ridiculous: Loki, the Norse trickster god, a vampire?! And Fenris is his pet werewolf?! We're never told who exactly Loki is, actually; it was only mentioned on one occation, in passing, that he's some sort of semi-god. Somehow, he's the main villain's vampire sire, and anything else? We're. Not. Told.
As previously mentioned, Darkling is rather better than Witchling and Changeling. But it doesn't improve by much, nor is Galenorn offering us anything revolutionary or particularly original. There are much better urban fantasy novels out there, with better character development and better plots, which I'd urge everyone to try before picking these up. At least that way you'd have something to laugh about afterwards.
Menolly, perhaps because she's not as happy and preppy as the other two sisters, has a slightly less ridiculous vocabulary at her disposal. She doesn't walk around town calling everyone "dude", "babe" and "hon", something I'm extremely relieved to find. The developments with Nerissa, Roz and Jareth are interesting, and it's irritating that Galenorn didn't bother to spend any time developing them. They're only put there as milestones for Menolly to reach as she goes on her "journey of recovery."
Now, onto the negatives. Once again, Galenorn's bad writing rears its ugly head, although it's slighly less noticeable here than it was in Witchling and Changeling (perhaps because I flipped through this one even faster than the previous two, in order to avoid some of the said bad writing.) From annoying minor grammatical errors (Galenorn, it's 'Camille and I', not "Camille and me") to absolutely glaring ones ("off of the path"?), these things grate on the nerves of the reader. It seriously hinders me from finding any enjoyment in the book when I'm running across those on every single page. New species and characters are still pouring out of Galenorn's head, all without half-decent treatment before they're either killed off or forgotten because they were only placed there as plot points anyway. Once again, explanations for events occurring between Changeling and Darkling were not given; you're simply expected to accept it and move on. And some of the characters and plot points that Galenorn inserts are bordering on the ridiculous: Loki, the Norse trickster god, a vampire?! And Fenris is his pet werewolf?! We're never told who exactly Loki is, actually; it was only mentioned on one occation, in passing, that he's some sort of semi-god. Somehow, he's the main villain's vampire sire, and anything else? We're. Not. Told.
As previously mentioned, Darkling is rather better than Witchling and Changeling. But it doesn't improve by much, nor is Galenorn offering us anything revolutionary or particularly original. There are much better urban fantasy novels out there, with better character development and better plots, which I'd urge everyone to try before picking these up. At least that way you'd have something to laugh about afterwards.
May 26, 2013
The third book in this series is my favorite so far! Although, I’ve rated all the books with five stars, this was beyond words! Definitely darker, this story took me out of my comfort zone for an urban fantasy book. There is so much pain and tragedy in the past of the main character that I’m not so sure how she managed to continue living.
So, this book is from Menolly’s POV and it’s a little different from the previous two. How? It has less humor and a lot of new characters. Also, this story is like a spiritual journey for Menolly so she can accept her past and herself.
I really liked her and I have to say that sometimes I found her better than her sisters. Don’t get me wrong! I like them all, but I think Menolly was feeling alone for so many years and her sisters were afraid of learning what she’s been through and so she had no one to speak. She’s hurting for so long and even when she sleeps she can’t rest. And now it’s time to see the monster who tortured her once again. But first she has to deal with her fear.
It was good for a change that this story hadn’t a romantic relationship. Sure, there are two people that Menolly wants sexually, one female and one male, but this story it’s not so much about that. I’m sure that we’ll see again Nerissa and Jareth but I’m not so sure with whom Menolly will end up with! It was good that both of them treated her very good and helped her heal her soul.
Another great read in this series! I recommend it to all the fans of the urban fantasy genre!
So, this book is from Menolly’s POV and it’s a little different from the previous two. How? It has less humor and a lot of new characters. Also, this story is like a spiritual journey for Menolly so she can accept her past and herself.
I really liked her and I have to say that sometimes I found her better than her sisters. Don’t get me wrong! I like them all, but I think Menolly was feeling alone for so many years and her sisters were afraid of learning what she’s been through and so she had no one to speak. She’s hurting for so long and even when she sleeps she can’t rest. And now it’s time to see the monster who tortured her once again. But first she has to deal with her fear.
It was good for a change that this story hadn’t a romantic relationship. Sure, there are two people that Menolly wants sexually, one female and one male, but this story it’s not so much about that. I’m sure that we’ll see again Nerissa and Jareth but I’m not so sure with whom Menolly will end up with! It was good that both of them treated her very good and helped her heal her soul.
Another great read in this series! I recommend it to all the fans of the urban fantasy genre!
February 26, 2013
I think, in fact I know, I would have enjoyed this book more if I had read it rather than listened to it. Cassandra Campbell was inoffensive as a reader but not so much that I forgot she was there and not good enough to make this a performance. Initially I was lost having not read the prior two books. But eventually Galenorn provided enough information that I had a good idea of what was happening or at least who the characters were. This is considered urban fantasy and as such the women are the leading characters. Menolly, the lead sister in this book, is a half human/half fae vampire. She was turned against her will after being tortured and raped 15 years ago. She has never forgotten a moment of it. When she has the opportunity to kill her sire, she doesn't hesitate. As a story, it would work. As an audio I found the profanity irritating and repetitive. It isn't that I mind cursing but the explicit descriptions of certain things were distasteful whereas they wouldn't have been noticed in print.
October 23, 2014
Third book in the series, told from the youngest sister's perspective. (Looks like the fourth will be going back to the oldest's.) It was good. The fight continues & we learn more about the family from Menolly. She's a vampire & takes the lead as they battle her creator.
The story line is very similar to the other two. I don't have the fourth book & don't mind waiting a while to get it. It's not a bad story, but it's also not compelling or different enough to make me want to run out & get the next. 2.5 stars is more accurate.
It's important to read this series in order. I appreciate that the author doesn't drag us down with a lot of recapping, but there is enough to provide spoilers that would harm the suspense in the other books.
The story line is very similar to the other two. I don't have the fourth book & don't mind waiting a while to get it. It's not a bad story, but it's also not compelling or different enough to make me want to run out & get the next. 2.5 stars is more accurate.
It's important to read this series in order. I appreciate that the author doesn't drag us down with a lot of recapping, but there is enough to provide spoilers that would harm the suspense in the other books.
May 17, 2011
WOO....knew Menolly would be a doozy! She is one cool vamp...and I loved the fact that she was gettin heavy with Nerissa. In all honesty Camille & Delilah have enough testosterone floating around for ten women..LOL! I am very interested in Roz though...mmm he sounds delicious. Also in Jareth who I wantto see if anything further happens between him and Menolly..and there is also Menolly and Nerissa. Man these sisters get all the goodies! And will Roz end up in a thing with any of them(ME ME ME)I also want to know why Erin is so special that Grandmother Coyote made mention to the girls about the situation. And I know that Dredge is a complete pyscho but mand did he sound sexy! I know its crazybut he did sound sexy! On to the next one!!
June 1, 2012
Third in the Otherworld/Sisters of the Moon paranormal-romance series based in Seattle and revolving around three half-human, half-fae sisters charged with preventing Storm Wing from overthrowing the world even as the Otherworld takes sides in a civil war. The point of view here is from Mennolly.
My Take
One of the interesting aspects of this series is that there is no settled love interest. While one sister provides the main point of view in each book and they end up with a lover or three, they don't end up with their forever soulmate. Camille simply accumulates lover after lover while Delilah has the option of two, and Mennolly is still exploring although Nerissa and Roz have possibilities. It creates a livelier interaction in the series with each sister fully engaged.
Darkling is told from Mennolly's point of view with a more detailed focus on her love life and we learn what happened, how she was turned, and, just barely, of the events that followed. It's not as funny as the earlier books, although I think Galenorn's writing has improved. Now if she could just put the two together...
So some Old Fae show up. So what? Just how does that make Mennolly think they have to cancel the meeting?? The same issues are still there. So Grandmother Coyote doesn't want them to speak of the greater evil. Dredge and all the new vamps being created are still the primary problem and the reason that first made the girls think of calling the meeting. Galenorn needs to pay attention to what she's writing and not just run off at tangents.
There was a decided lack of drama in Mennolly's facedown with her sire. So much build-up and so little savoring. Just in, out, and done. And probably not forever. I did enjoy the whole "But you like pain". It was so sweet.
The Story
Something, someone, is turning humans into vampires. Night after night. And Mennolly fears it's the Elwing Blood Clan. It's a turn she wouldn't wish on her worst enemy. There is so much "action", that the girls decide to pull together a voluntary supernatural coalition to brainstorm AND provide a wider area of watching coverage for threats to any supernaturals.
It's that delicate dance of finding a safe home for a troubled and too-knowing teen that makes Anna-Linda a supernatural problem. And brings Nerissa to Mennolly's home. But it's the sudden upsurge in new little vampires that sets off the call to arms and brings the supernatural community together---the good and the bad. New allies from Queen Asteria and an extremely painful, but thorough therapy session for Mennolly. Getting through it is the only chance she has of facing down her sire.
The Characters
Menolly D'Artigo is a vampire (tortured and turned by the Elwing Blood Clan) who has taken over ownership of the Wayfarer Bar & Grill, her former cover when she and her sisters were still affiliated with the OIA.
The other two D'Artigo sisters are employed in no-longer-OIA-owned enterprises also---with the civil war, the OIA has broken off all contact and the sisters have simply taken over: Camille, a magically-challenged witch with a connection to the Moon Mother, runs the Indigo Crescent bookstore and only seems to excel at death spells and Delilah who is a werecat with her own private detective agency. Any kind of upsets trigger her change response and she shifts into a house kitty. Iris Kuusi is a Finnish house sprite, a Talon-haltija, who has come to work at the bookstore and lives in the old Victorian along with the girls. Maggie is a baby gargoyle Camille rescued from being Harpy snack food.
Chase Johnson is an FBH, a full-blooded human, who works for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency (OIA) along with the sisters and created the Faerie-Human Crime Scene Investigations (FH-CSI) team---the fae version of CSI. He's currently seeing Delilah. Trillian is a Svartan whose king has allied with Tanaquar and Asteria. He's also one of Camille's boyfriends and, now, a lot more than simply accepting of the other "men" in her life including Morio, a kitsune, sent by Grandmother Coyote to help them and Smoky the dragon. Rozurial is a bounty-hunting incubus with a plan of revenge and a mandate from Queen Asteria.
Their father Sephreh ob Tanu and Aunt Rythwar are still in hiding from the queen. Their cousin Shamas was convicted of treason against Queen Lethesanar, but escaped her custody. Sharah, Queen Asteria's niece, and Mallen are both elvish medics with FH-CSI.
Cleo Blanco, a.k.a., Tim Winthrop, is a drag queen and computer geek about to be drafted to the OIA. He has a daughter with his ex-wife and is currently engaged to Jason Binds, the girls' mechanic. Erin Mathews owns Camille's favorite clothing store, the Scarlot Harlot, and their friendship has placed Erin in great danger. Siobhan Morgan is a wereselkie and provides Delilah with background information on the were packs in the area.
Civil war has broken out in OW: Tanaquar, Queen Lethesanar of Y'Elestrial's sister has challenged her for the throne.
The girls now report to Asteria, the Elfin Queen. Trenyth is the Queen's assistant and the girls' liaison with the elfin court. Jareth is a seer, a priest of sorts. One with the experience to help Mennolly conquer her past.
The Autumn Lord is an Elemental who has "married" Delilah and she's added to her "repertoire" as a Death Maiden.
Otherworld (OW) is the land of all the fae. Grandmother Coyote is an Elemental spirit bound to Earth; she can't be charmed, harmed, or killed. Wade Stevens runs Vampires Anonymous and was Mennolly's first vampire contact. Well, friendly vampire contact. He and Mennolly had dated, but his mother, Mrs. Belinda Stevens, soon ended it. Sassy Branson, a wealthy socialite, was turned into a vampire some time ago but she's managed to keep it secret. Now, she comes in handy. Morgaine, Mordred, and Arturo are very Old Fae and have shown up for the first all-supernatural meeting. They, however, seem to have their own agenda.
Zachary Lyonnesse is a werepuma and his Rainier Puma Pride needs Delilah's help with finding the serial killer murdering his pridemates. Venus the Moon Child is the pride shaman (see Changeling). Nerissa is a social worker who aids troubled kids. And very attracted to Mennolly. Anna-Linda is a runaway whom Mennolly befriends.
Shadow Wing is a powerful demon overlord planning to destroy both Earth and the Otherworld. In preparation for that event, he keeps sending demon scout crews, Degath Squads, through. The Elwing Blood Clan is the group of vampires whose leader, Dredge, a former high priest of Jakaris, the Svartan god of vice and torture. He tortured and turned Mennolly. It seems they're about to enter the action---on the wrong side, naturally. Wisteria is a floraed fae, an enemy, and the rumor is that she has joined up with the Elwings.
The Cover
It's a rocky textured green and yellow wall with Mennolly squatting on a blue floor. She's wearing gray jeans, a low-scooped T, and a velvety looking blue jacket, the many long beaded braids of her hair dangling like sprays of water around her head. With that look on her face, one of calculating menace, I do not want to make her angry with me!
The title has me confused. The best I can imagine is that Mennolly is the Darkling...
My Take
One of the interesting aspects of this series is that there is no settled love interest. While one sister provides the main point of view in each book and they end up with a lover or three, they don't end up with their forever soulmate. Camille simply accumulates lover after lover while Delilah has the option of two, and Mennolly is still exploring although Nerissa and Roz have possibilities. It creates a livelier interaction in the series with each sister fully engaged.
Darkling is told from Mennolly's point of view with a more detailed focus on her love life and we learn what happened, how she was turned, and, just barely, of the events that followed. It's not as funny as the earlier books, although I think Galenorn's writing has improved. Now if she could just put the two together...
So some Old Fae show up. So what? Just how does that make Mennolly think they have to cancel the meeting?? The same issues are still there. So Grandmother Coyote doesn't want them to speak of the greater evil. Dredge and all the new vamps being created are still the primary problem and the reason that first made the girls think of calling the meeting. Galenorn needs to pay attention to what she's writing and not just run off at tangents.
There was a decided lack of drama in Mennolly's facedown with her sire. So much build-up and so little savoring. Just in, out, and done. And probably not forever. I did enjoy the whole "But you like pain". It was so sweet.
The Story
Something, someone, is turning humans into vampires. Night after night. And Mennolly fears it's the Elwing Blood Clan. It's a turn she wouldn't wish on her worst enemy. There is so much "action", that the girls decide to pull together a voluntary supernatural coalition to brainstorm AND provide a wider area of watching coverage for threats to any supernaturals.
It's that delicate dance of finding a safe home for a troubled and too-knowing teen that makes Anna-Linda a supernatural problem. And brings Nerissa to Mennolly's home. But it's the sudden upsurge in new little vampires that sets off the call to arms and brings the supernatural community together---the good and the bad. New allies from Queen Asteria and an extremely painful, but thorough therapy session for Mennolly. Getting through it is the only chance she has of facing down her sire.
The Characters
Menolly D'Artigo is a vampire (tortured and turned by the Elwing Blood Clan) who has taken over ownership of the Wayfarer Bar & Grill, her former cover when she and her sisters were still affiliated with the OIA.
The other two D'Artigo sisters are employed in no-longer-OIA-owned enterprises also---with the civil war, the OIA has broken off all contact and the sisters have simply taken over: Camille, a magically-challenged witch with a connection to the Moon Mother, runs the Indigo Crescent bookstore and only seems to excel at death spells and Delilah who is a werecat with her own private detective agency. Any kind of upsets trigger her change response and she shifts into a house kitty. Iris Kuusi is a Finnish house sprite, a Talon-haltija, who has come to work at the bookstore and lives in the old Victorian along with the girls. Maggie is a baby gargoyle Camille rescued from being Harpy snack food.
Chase Johnson is an FBH, a full-blooded human, who works for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency (OIA) along with the sisters and created the Faerie-Human Crime Scene Investigations (FH-CSI) team---the fae version of CSI. He's currently seeing Delilah. Trillian is a Svartan whose king has allied with Tanaquar and Asteria. He's also one of Camille's boyfriends and, now, a lot more than simply accepting of the other "men" in her life including Morio, a kitsune, sent by Grandmother Coyote to help them and Smoky the dragon. Rozurial is a bounty-hunting incubus with a plan of revenge and a mandate from Queen Asteria.
Their father Sephreh ob Tanu and Aunt Rythwar are still in hiding from the queen. Their cousin Shamas was convicted of treason against Queen Lethesanar, but escaped her custody. Sharah, Queen Asteria's niece, and Mallen are both elvish medics with FH-CSI.
Cleo Blanco, a.k.a., Tim Winthrop, is a drag queen and computer geek about to be drafted to the OIA. He has a daughter with his ex-wife and is currently engaged to Jason Binds, the girls' mechanic. Erin Mathews owns Camille's favorite clothing store, the Scarlot Harlot, and their friendship has placed Erin in great danger. Siobhan Morgan is a wereselkie and provides Delilah with background information on the were packs in the area.
Civil war has broken out in OW: Tanaquar, Queen Lethesanar of Y'Elestrial's sister has challenged her for the throne.
The girls now report to Asteria, the Elfin Queen. Trenyth is the Queen's assistant and the girls' liaison with the elfin court. Jareth is a seer, a priest of sorts. One with the experience to help Mennolly conquer her past.
The Autumn Lord is an Elemental who has "married" Delilah and she's added to her "repertoire" as a Death Maiden.
Otherworld (OW) is the land of all the fae. Grandmother Coyote is an Elemental spirit bound to Earth; she can't be charmed, harmed, or killed. Wade Stevens runs Vampires Anonymous and was Mennolly's first vampire contact. Well, friendly vampire contact. He and Mennolly had dated, but his mother, Mrs. Belinda Stevens, soon ended it. Sassy Branson, a wealthy socialite, was turned into a vampire some time ago but she's managed to keep it secret. Now, she comes in handy. Morgaine, Mordred, and Arturo are very Old Fae and have shown up for the first all-supernatural meeting. They, however, seem to have their own agenda.
Zachary Lyonnesse is a werepuma and his Rainier Puma Pride needs Delilah's help with finding the serial killer murdering his pridemates. Venus the Moon Child is the pride shaman (see Changeling). Nerissa is a social worker who aids troubled kids. And very attracted to Mennolly. Anna-Linda is a runaway whom Mennolly befriends.
Shadow Wing is a powerful demon overlord planning to destroy both Earth and the Otherworld. In preparation for that event, he keeps sending demon scout crews, Degath Squads, through. The Elwing Blood Clan is the group of vampires whose leader, Dredge, a former high priest of Jakaris, the Svartan god of vice and torture. He tortured and turned Mennolly. It seems they're about to enter the action---on the wrong side, naturally. Wisteria is a floraed fae, an enemy, and the rumor is that she has joined up with the Elwings.
The Cover
It's a rocky textured green and yellow wall with Mennolly squatting on a blue floor. She's wearing gray jeans, a low-scooped T, and a velvety looking blue jacket, the many long beaded braids of her hair dangling like sprays of water around her head. With that look on her face, one of calculating menace, I do not want to make her angry with me!
The title has me confused. The best I can imagine is that Mennolly is the Darkling...
March 26, 2023
I do enjoy the mixture of paranormal characters and the plot is good. I just struggle and it might be just me, with the sheer volume of elements regarding all the different types to keep track of in the story. I am sure i would love this series if i wasn't always trying to keep track of what is happening with this or that group. I am sure it is probably me. The writing is good and the interesting story line in this one was compelling. I liked it no doubt.
January 25, 2017
4.5 stars - great!
I first read this book August 29-30, 2013.
I reread it January 22, 2017.
The below review is adapted/updated from the review I wrote after my first reading.
I loved this book. This one was told from Menolly's point of view, and it was really nice to gain more insight into the youngest D'Artigo sister (though she still seems more like the middle sister). Not only that, but we learned exactly how she became a vampire and got to be witness to the
The romance element to this story - labeled "Paranormal Romance" by the publisher - was a little lacking, in my opinion. This didn't detract from the story at all, since the action was eventful in other ways. However, Menolly's relationship with Nerissa, while interesting, seemed more like an aside, a rebound relationship (of sorts), for Menolly. I liked her interactions with Jareth much more, as they fit into the story better. It will be interesting to see where - and to whom - Menolly goes next.
Roz is a great new character with a lot of promise. (He's ) I hope to see more of him soon. :-)
We didn't have very many new beings introduced to us in this outing, I don't think. Let's see, we met a goblin, two (two?) werewolves, a werebear, and a god. Oh! We also got to meet a leprechaun, at least two psychics, and a sorceress. :-)
Much to my disappointment, we only had a few too-brief mentions of Smoky, but we did get to see a lot more of - and learn more about - Morio. And given that book four is titled Dragon Wytch, I'm hopeful that Smoky will have more of a role in it. I'll be reading it soon to find out. :)
The plot for this book was full of excitement. Menolly was our point-of-view character for this outing, and her sire has made his way to Seattle and is wreaking havoc. This story didn't involve the spirit seals, though from Queen Asteria we learned more about the spirit seals. (And we were given a pretty big hint as to what getting the third one will involve: )
But in the end, :-)
The scene that brought tears to my eyes was on page 191, at the end of Chapter 13, when Menolly And, cue tears. :-)
I almost laughed earlier in the story, but I didn't make a note of the page which had that humorous scene, unfortunately.
In sum, though I found Menolly to be rather abrasive and abrupt at times, I am giving this book 4.5 - great! - stars. This is a reduction from my previous rating (five stars), but it more accurately reflects how I feel about this book. (Camille is still my favorite of the three D'Artigo sisters.) ;-)
I first read this book August 29-30, 2013.
I reread it January 22, 2017.
The below review is adapted/updated from the review I wrote after my first reading.
I loved this book. This one was told from Menolly's point of view, and it was really nice to gain more insight into the youngest D'Artigo sister (though she still seems more like the middle sister). Not only that, but we learned exactly how she became a vampire and got to be witness to the
The romance element to this story - labeled "Paranormal Romance" by the publisher - was a little lacking, in my opinion. This didn't detract from the story at all, since the action was eventful in other ways. However, Menolly's relationship with Nerissa, while interesting, seemed more like an aside, a rebound relationship (of sorts), for Menolly. I liked her interactions with Jareth much more, as they fit into the story better. It will be interesting to see where - and to whom - Menolly goes next.
Roz is a great new character with a lot of promise. (He's ) I hope to see more of him soon. :-)
We didn't have very many new beings introduced to us in this outing, I don't think. Let's see, we met a goblin, two (two?) werewolves, a werebear, and a god. Oh! We also got to meet a leprechaun, at least two psychics, and a sorceress. :-)
Much to my disappointment, we only had a few too-brief mentions of Smoky, but we did get to see a lot more of - and learn more about - Morio. And given that book four is titled Dragon Wytch, I'm hopeful that Smoky will have more of a role in it. I'll be reading it soon to find out. :)
The plot for this book was full of excitement. Menolly was our point-of-view character for this outing, and her sire has made his way to Seattle and is wreaking havoc. This story didn't involve the spirit seals, though from Queen Asteria we learned more about the spirit seals. (And we were given a pretty big hint as to what getting the third one will involve: )
But in the end, :-)
The scene that brought tears to my eyes was on page 191, at the end of Chapter 13, when Menolly And, cue tears. :-)
I almost laughed earlier in the story, but I didn't make a note of the page which had that humorous scene, unfortunately.
In sum, though I found Menolly to be rather abrasive and abrupt at times, I am giving this book 4.5 - great! - stars. This is a reduction from my previous rating (five stars), but it more accurately reflects how I feel about this book. (Camille is still my favorite of the three D'Artigo sisters.) ;-)
March 10, 2011
Darkling / 978-0-425-21893-8
The third in the Sisters of the Moon series, "Darkling" carries on the point-of-view cycle by moving to the third sister in the family - the ill-fated Menolly. Half-human and half-Fae like her sisters, her particular cross to bear is her hated vampirism. In the second book of the series, "Changeling", we learned that the sisters' old enemies were joining forces with the vampire group that tortured and turned Menolly, and "Darkling" follows that plot thread as a chance for Menolly to face her past demons and vanquish her old sire.
If I may get minor criticism out of the way first: "Darkling" carries on the proud Fantasy Kitchen Sink themes of this series, but via taking a minor left turn on "Fourth and Bananas", as it were - Loki the Trickster makes a special cameo appearance here, as does Morgaine and her Arturian crew in their quest for the Merlin - a plot point that will presumably become relevant later but does little to clear the air here and now. There's also the sudden and jarring introduction of a vampiric taboo against severing the magical lifeline between vampiric sire and child, as well as a similar taboo against murdering one's own sire - a strange plot point, given that (a) one would suspect that at least some vampiric children are sired unwillingly, and (b) if the D'Artigo sisters have cared about social niceties prior to now, that hasn't come through the narrative. Overall, it feels like a cheap shot to easily inject some quick angst (OMG! Now even the vampires will shun Menolly!) into an otherwise excellent setup of redemption and revenge.
These small criticisms aside, the novel readily redeems itself by maintaining this series' high aversion to angst levels - a particularly tricky thing to pull off in a novel that is largely about Menolly's torturous history and her working through the issues arising from the same. It's gratifying to see a rape victim portrayed with so much depth and sensitivity - Menolly has recovered from her torture through her strength and determination, but in order to truly be free from the magical ties that bind her to her sire, she must go through a sort of magical counseling session to work through her inner demons. Along the way, her sister Camille is able to see and relive Menolly's memories, and Menolly realizes that protecting her sisters from the knowledge of what happened to her will only drive a wedge between them in the long run, and she comes to trust that her sisters can handle the truth - a surprisingly deep philosophical conclusion from a "fluffy" fantasy series.
Although I enjoyed "Darkling" immensely and recommend it to fans of the series, it is important to note that this is a much darker novel than the first two entrants, as the plot focuses solidly on Menolly's torturous history, so be forewarned.
~ Ana Mardoll
The third in the Sisters of the Moon series, "Darkling" carries on the point-of-view cycle by moving to the third sister in the family - the ill-fated Menolly. Half-human and half-Fae like her sisters, her particular cross to bear is her hated vampirism. In the second book of the series, "Changeling", we learned that the sisters' old enemies were joining forces with the vampire group that tortured and turned Menolly, and "Darkling" follows that plot thread as a chance for Menolly to face her past demons and vanquish her old sire.
If I may get minor criticism out of the way first: "Darkling" carries on the proud Fantasy Kitchen Sink themes of this series, but via taking a minor left turn on "Fourth and Bananas", as it were - Loki the Trickster makes a special cameo appearance here, as does Morgaine and her Arturian crew in their quest for the Merlin - a plot point that will presumably become relevant later but does little to clear the air here and now. There's also the sudden and jarring introduction of a vampiric taboo against severing the magical lifeline between vampiric sire and child, as well as a similar taboo against murdering one's own sire - a strange plot point, given that (a) one would suspect that at least some vampiric children are sired unwillingly, and (b) if the D'Artigo sisters have cared about social niceties prior to now, that hasn't come through the narrative. Overall, it feels like a cheap shot to easily inject some quick angst (OMG! Now even the vampires will shun Menolly!) into an otherwise excellent setup of redemption and revenge.
These small criticisms aside, the novel readily redeems itself by maintaining this series' high aversion to angst levels - a particularly tricky thing to pull off in a novel that is largely about Menolly's torturous history and her working through the issues arising from the same. It's gratifying to see a rape victim portrayed with so much depth and sensitivity - Menolly has recovered from her torture through her strength and determination, but in order to truly be free from the magical ties that bind her to her sire, she must go through a sort of magical counseling session to work through her inner demons. Along the way, her sister Camille is able to see and relive Menolly's memories, and Menolly realizes that protecting her sisters from the knowledge of what happened to her will only drive a wedge between them in the long run, and she comes to trust that her sisters can handle the truth - a surprisingly deep philosophical conclusion from a "fluffy" fantasy series.
Although I enjoyed "Darkling" immensely and recommend it to fans of the series, it is important to note that this is a much darker novel than the first two entrants, as the plot focuses solidly on Menolly's torturous history, so be forewarned.
~ Ana Mardoll
April 1, 2009
Darkling is the third book in the Sisters of the Moon series, the follow-up of Changeling(2). In Witchling(1) we meet the D'Artigo sisters- Camille, the eldest who is a witch, Delilah, the middle child who is a werecat, and Menolly, the baby of the family who is a vampire.
The plot of Witchling establishes the confusing existance of the three realms- Otherworld, Earth and the Subteranean Realms and introduces us to a host of otherwordly species from both those found on Earth and those from without. Darkling draws us further into the darker sides of these races. Menolly is dragged into a hunt for her own kind this time: vampires. The tale of how she was turned is revealed this time, giving us a new villain to loathe, Menolly's sire, Dredge. She's pretty sure he's behind the recent murders and turnings happening around Seattle, she just has to find out if he's working for his own agenda or that of Shadow Wing.
Though darker in tone and content, Darkling is a story about healing. Menolly has been through so much more than anyone close to her knows and she finally has to face her demons both inside and out. Some fans will be disappointed that Smoky makes no appearance in this book but Maggie, Iris, Erin and Tim/Cleo, some other fan faves are all here and greatly enrich the story.
I personally enjoyed Darkling the most of the three books in the series thus far. It was more emotional, touching and empowering than the other installments and Menolly turned out to be so much more than I had anticipated. A great new character, Roz, is introduced and while this story went off into left field regarding the main thread of the series it brought the sisters closer together which I think will be very important in future books. Greatly looking forward to the next installment- Dragon Wytch.
The plot of Witchling establishes the confusing existance of the three realms- Otherworld, Earth and the Subteranean Realms and introduces us to a host of otherwordly species from both those found on Earth and those from without. Darkling draws us further into the darker sides of these races. Menolly is dragged into a hunt for her own kind this time: vampires. The tale of how she was turned is revealed this time, giving us a new villain to loathe, Menolly's sire, Dredge. She's pretty sure he's behind the recent murders and turnings happening around Seattle, she just has to find out if he's working for his own agenda or that of Shadow Wing.
Though darker in tone and content, Darkling is a story about healing. Menolly has been through so much more than anyone close to her knows and she finally has to face her demons both inside and out. Some fans will be disappointed that Smoky makes no appearance in this book but Maggie, Iris, Erin and Tim/Cleo, some other fan faves are all here and greatly enrich the story.
I personally enjoyed Darkling the most of the three books in the series thus far. It was more emotional, touching and empowering than the other installments and Menolly turned out to be so much more than I had anticipated. A great new character, Roz, is introduced and while this story went off into left field regarding the main thread of the series it brought the sisters closer together which I think will be very important in future books. Greatly looking forward to the next installment- Dragon Wytch.
January 1, 2011
This is the third The Sisters on the Moon book by Yasmine Galenorn, and it doesn't disappoint. It's packed with new problems for the sisters, and a lot of action. I loved every minute of it. Menolly intrigued me from the moment she was introduced in Witchling, so I couldn't wait to meet her and get into her head.
The constant pain she relives because of her physical and mental scars is heartbreaking. As if it isn't enough to have to deal with the fact that she's a vampire. Her sire, Dredge is evil. And intent on not leaving her alone.
Man, this was another excellent installment. And Yasmine's got three more coming. I can't wait to see how this series develops. As things get solved and sorted, new things pop up.
The constant pain she relives because of her physical and mental scars is heartbreaking. As if it isn't enough to have to deal with the fact that she's a vampire. Her sire, Dredge is evil. And intent on not leaving her alone.
Man, this was another excellent installment. And Yasmine's got three more coming. I can't wait to see how this series develops. As things get solved and sorted, new things pop up.
October 30, 2011
I realize I'm not the audience for this...and I read it out of order, but it was all I had on a long car ride. However, I won't be reading on with the series.
The plot was shallow and unoriginal.
The dialogue was flat and poor.
The writing remained terrible throughout. Terrible on a word by word, sentence by sentence level, betraying both a lack of skill and style.
I was indifferent to all the characters. Menolly especially. I never connected with her.
I don't even like the cover. I finished it for the pure masochistic thrill.
The plot was shallow and unoriginal.
The dialogue was flat and poor.
The writing remained terrible throughout. Terrible on a word by word, sentence by sentence level, betraying both a lack of skill and style.
I was indifferent to all the characters. Menolly especially. I never connected with her.
I don't even like the cover. I finished it for the pure masochistic thrill.
January 17, 2009
I actually really enjoyed Yasmine Galenorn's series. Fun, sexy, and not taking itself too seriously. It has enough paranormal to fit the genre,the plot follows some logic and each of the sisters gets their day in the sun with each book. Galenorn appreciates the pagan/paranormal viewpoint and provides an entertaining, sexy and entertainin read.
May 12, 2011
Serinin bu kaitabını daha çok sevdim nedense..Sanırım Menolly'nin öyküsü etkiledi beni birde vampir avlayıp durdukları için aksiyon çoktu :))
October 2, 2014
I really liked this I'd forgotten loads from book 1 & 2 but as theses are each about a different sister so I caught up quick!
October 16, 2013
These books get better and better in my opinion.
February 18, 2011
Synopsis: All over Seattle, humans have been going missing, only to turn up as newborn vampires - the sure sign of a rogue vamp on the loose. It looks like Dredge is to blame. The same sadistic Dredge who gave me my scars, and who may well be in cahoots with the demon Shadow Wing. If so, Otherworld and Earth are screwed. The only way we can hope to defeat Dredge is for me to travel home to Otherworld, where I must face my own demons. Because unless I sever the ties that bind me to Dredge, all hell is going to break loose.
**Review/Thoughts** The D’Artigo sisters are Half-human, half-Faerie operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency (OIA), or were until a war broke out on their homeworld of Y'Electrial. Now they are hiding on earthside to keep from assassins who want them dead as well as their father and Aunt who have both gone into hiding, but are now missing.
Older sister Camille is a witch whose magic is as unpredictable as the weather, and dresses like a BDSM slut, and sleeps simultaneously with two men at the same time; Morio and Trillion. So, don't care for BDSM or three-ways, sorry. Oh, and let's not forget about her Dragon that she also tends on sleeping with, if she hasn't already done so in order to pay him back for his help. Camille is practicing death magic with Morio, which concerns the other sisters.
Sister Delilah, is a PI, who transforms into a tabby cat when she’s under stress and is also the Autumn Lords new Death Maiden. Delilah has been seeing Chase Johnson, a human and a member of the Faerie-Human Crime Scene Investigators. She also has a thing for Zachary Lyonnesse a were-puma.
This story is told from the POV of Menolly, an acrobat-extraordinaire-turned-vampire who wants revenge on her sire, a peice of work named the Dredge. She's also the youngest of the family and has been a vampire for 12 earth years.
Now, we get to the POV character who I actually really like, Menolly D'Atrigo. Menolly's story is actually fascinating, as well as informative. Menolly is a former acrobat-extraordinaire, turned vampire by a very nasty piece of work Dredge. Dredge is the leader of Elwing Blood Clan.
The story picks up when Menolly and crew, discover that Dredge is heading for Earth, and most likely, Seattle where they live. The first sign is when 4 bodies are discovered near where Menolly's bar the Wayfarer Bar and Grill is located. Soon, the bodies become rogue vampires, and it becomes a race to stop them before they create devastation and panick in and around the area.
A new character named Roz (Rozurial) is added to the series. Roz is a decent addition and yes, he has his powers as well. He is an incubus at the service of the sisters only real ally Queen Asteria. He is also a hunter who has been on the Dredge's trail for centuries for killing his family.
Menolly, in the meantime, takes a journey with Camille, and Morio to Aladril in order to meet with a shaman named Jareth, who helps her release her sire bonds to the Dredge. Let me say one thing, Menolly's story is not a happy one. She was beaten until she was a bloody pulp. She has scars from her neck down to her toes from being tortured and raped and finally killed and turned into a vampire. Menolly's journey back to accepting herself, also takes her and Camille back to the moment she dies and see's her mother trying to help her.
Menolly also does have several romantic moments with Narissa, a female were-puma, and Jareth, who we find out also had previous contact, unsuccessfully, with the Dredge.
Menolly is also given a warning by the Grandmother Coyote that she will have to make a very hard choice, and it must be done. Little did she know it would be becoming a sire to a newborn vampire and a family friend.
Unanswered questions: Where is her father and Aunt? They disappeared and not even Trillion knows where they're at. Will Menolly's new youngling turn evil, or stay on the path that Menolly has chosen? Why does the writer insist on making Camille such a slut and dress her up like a BDSM covergirl? Will Roz end up with any of the three sisters since he's an incubus after all? Will Menolly get with Narissa, or Jareth again?
Final thoughts/feelings: I would definitely stay with this series and NOT skip any books, if Menolly played more of a primary role in the story, and not stuck behind annoying Camille, or even, to an extent, Delilah. (Although with her being a Death Maiden, things could get interesting) Menolly's backstory was alot more interesting than either of the two other sisters stories combined. We get alot more characters added to the mix, including Old Fae legends Morgaine Le Fay, Mordred, and Arturu. They are looking for Merlin, and yes, it's THAT Merlin. There's even more reference to Seattle's supes and an effort, that gets lost among the story, to combine the supes to protect them, and humans from each other. Another likable character in my opinion, is Iris, who now lives with the sisters and we learn that she's a seer as well as a house sprite.
So, will, or won't I bother with Dragon Wytch? ::shrug::
**Review/Thoughts** The D’Artigo sisters are Half-human, half-Faerie operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency (OIA), or were until a war broke out on their homeworld of Y'Electrial. Now they are hiding on earthside to keep from assassins who want them dead as well as their father and Aunt who have both gone into hiding, but are now missing.
Older sister Camille is a witch whose magic is as unpredictable as the weather, and dresses like a BDSM slut, and sleeps simultaneously with two men at the same time; Morio and Trillion. So, don't care for BDSM or three-ways, sorry. Oh, and let's not forget about her Dragon that she also tends on sleeping with, if she hasn't already done so in order to pay him back for his help. Camille is practicing death magic with Morio, which concerns the other sisters.
Sister Delilah, is a PI, who transforms into a tabby cat when she’s under stress and is also the Autumn Lords new Death Maiden. Delilah has been seeing Chase Johnson, a human and a member of the Faerie-Human Crime Scene Investigators. She also has a thing for Zachary Lyonnesse a were-puma.
This story is told from the POV of Menolly, an acrobat-extraordinaire-turned-vampire who wants revenge on her sire, a peice of work named the Dredge. She's also the youngest of the family and has been a vampire for 12 earth years.
Now, we get to the POV character who I actually really like, Menolly D'Atrigo. Menolly's story is actually fascinating, as well as informative. Menolly is a former acrobat-extraordinaire, turned vampire by a very nasty piece of work Dredge. Dredge is the leader of Elwing Blood Clan.
The story picks up when Menolly and crew, discover that Dredge is heading for Earth, and most likely, Seattle where they live. The first sign is when 4 bodies are discovered near where Menolly's bar the Wayfarer Bar and Grill is located. Soon, the bodies become rogue vampires, and it becomes a race to stop them before they create devastation and panick in and around the area.
A new character named Roz (Rozurial) is added to the series. Roz is a decent addition and yes, he has his powers as well. He is an incubus at the service of the sisters only real ally Queen Asteria. He is also a hunter who has been on the Dredge's trail for centuries for killing his family.
Menolly, in the meantime, takes a journey with Camille, and Morio to Aladril in order to meet with a shaman named Jareth, who helps her release her sire bonds to the Dredge. Let me say one thing, Menolly's story is not a happy one. She was beaten until she was a bloody pulp. She has scars from her neck down to her toes from being tortured and raped and finally killed and turned into a vampire. Menolly's journey back to accepting herself, also takes her and Camille back to the moment she dies and see's her mother trying to help her.
Menolly also does have several romantic moments with Narissa, a female were-puma, and Jareth, who we find out also had previous contact, unsuccessfully, with the Dredge.
Menolly is also given a warning by the Grandmother Coyote that she will have to make a very hard choice, and it must be done. Little did she know it would be becoming a sire to a newborn vampire and a family friend.
Unanswered questions: Where is her father and Aunt? They disappeared and not even Trillion knows where they're at. Will Menolly's new youngling turn evil, or stay on the path that Menolly has chosen? Why does the writer insist on making Camille such a slut and dress her up like a BDSM covergirl? Will Roz end up with any of the three sisters since he's an incubus after all? Will Menolly get with Narissa, or Jareth again?
Final thoughts/feelings: I would definitely stay with this series and NOT skip any books, if Menolly played more of a primary role in the story, and not stuck behind annoying Camille, or even, to an extent, Delilah. (Although with her being a Death Maiden, things could get interesting) Menolly's backstory was alot more interesting than either of the two other sisters stories combined. We get alot more characters added to the mix, including Old Fae legends Morgaine Le Fay, Mordred, and Arturu. They are looking for Merlin, and yes, it's THAT Merlin. There's even more reference to Seattle's supes and an effort, that gets lost among the story, to combine the supes to protect them, and humans from each other. Another likable character in my opinion, is Iris, who now lives with the sisters and we learn that she's a seer as well as a house sprite.
So, will, or won't I bother with Dragon Wytch? ::shrug::
January 20, 2018
Round up to 4.5 stars.
March 28, 2018
5/5 ⭐
Sooo much better then the last few books!
Sooo much better then the last few books!
February 17, 2019
3,5 / 4
April 18, 2013
>Synopsis:
We're the D'Artigo Sisters: Half-human, half-Faerie, we're savvy--and sexy--operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. But our mixed-blood heritage short-circuits our talents at all the wrong times. My sister Camille is a wicked-good witch whose magic is as unpredictable as the weather. My sister Delilah transforms into a tabby cat when she's under stress. And me? I'm Menolly, acrobat-extraordinaire-turned-vampire. And I'd give my right fang to make my sire pay for killing me. That is, if he doesn't find me first...
"All over Seattle, humans have been going missing, only to turn up as newborn vampires--the sure sign of a rogue vamp on the loose. It looks like Dredge is to blame. The same sadistic Dredge who gave me my scars, and who may well be in cahoots with the demon Shadow Wing. If so, Otherworld and Earth are screwed. The only way we can hope to defeat Dredge is for me to travel home to Otherworld, where I must face my own demons. Because unless I sever the ties that bind me to Dredge, all hell is going to break loose..."
My Thoughts:
So I finished this one and I liked it. I'm still having the same issues that I was having with the first two books. The characters are difficult to connect with. I like Camille now much more than I did when I read her book Witchling since she's obviously very loyal. Maybe she isn't as bad as I thought she was.
So this time, the sisters and their cohorts are dealing with a blast from Menolly's past in the form of her sire Dredge. He's been siring vampires around Seattle and basically letting them run loose to create more. For some reason, he's also working with Wisteria from book 1 who the sisters previously thought was a friend, but turned out to be an enemy. By the end of the book, I did not understand what Wisteria had to do with any of this. It didn't even seem that Shadow Wing was involved in any way. It seemed more like the book was a way for Menolly to move past her trauma that she suffered that night that Dredge turned her into a vampire.
I enjoyed reading from Menolly's POV and I actually rather like her. She tells it straight. She can dwell on what happened to her at times, but when it was time to move forward so that she could put an end to her enemy, she did so without reservation and handled the situation so well. I never got the impression that Menolly was overly emo. She was afraid of what she could be capable of if she were to make love, with good reason. She was afraid of how she would react to being touched. Also, with good reason. She reacted well in those situations. However, a lot like the sex scenes in previous books, the sex scenes in this one felt out of place. The second one made more sense, but did there really need to be sex scenes? I like sex in my PNR. I like it a lot, but here, the scenes just didn't feel right. It didn't help that they didn't do much for me, either.
Still, I liked the overall story and I loved seeing Menolly overcome what happened to her and kick some ass. It took a lot to do what she did. I actually hope that she sees Jareth again at some point, although Nerissa will probably be good for her, too. I haven't connected with that relationship, yet, but it is nice to see a main female character possibly pursuing something with another female character. Gives us something different in the series as opposed to Camille and Delilah and their relationships with multiple men, although it seems that Delilah hasn't had much to do with Zach since the end of Changeling, which I am glad of. A lot has been changing for the sisters in each book. In this one, Menolly does something she swore she would never do, but according to Grandmother Coyote, it was a necessary thing to do. I sure hope that character will be put to good use and this wasn't just a plot device. Speaking of characters being put to good use, here's hoping that Roz will show up again and be useful even though Dredge is dead now.
A book featuring Camille is up again. Here's hoping that I like it more than her first one.
We're the D'Artigo Sisters: Half-human, half-Faerie, we're savvy--and sexy--operatives for the Otherworld Intelligence Agency. But our mixed-blood heritage short-circuits our talents at all the wrong times. My sister Camille is a wicked-good witch whose magic is as unpredictable as the weather. My sister Delilah transforms into a tabby cat when she's under stress. And me? I'm Menolly, acrobat-extraordinaire-turned-vampire. And I'd give my right fang to make my sire pay for killing me. That is, if he doesn't find me first...
"All over Seattle, humans have been going missing, only to turn up as newborn vampires--the sure sign of a rogue vamp on the loose. It looks like Dredge is to blame. The same sadistic Dredge who gave me my scars, and who may well be in cahoots with the demon Shadow Wing. If so, Otherworld and Earth are screwed. The only way we can hope to defeat Dredge is for me to travel home to Otherworld, where I must face my own demons. Because unless I sever the ties that bind me to Dredge, all hell is going to break loose..."
My Thoughts:
So I finished this one and I liked it. I'm still having the same issues that I was having with the first two books. The characters are difficult to connect with. I like Camille now much more than I did when I read her book Witchling since she's obviously very loyal. Maybe she isn't as bad as I thought she was.
So this time, the sisters and their cohorts are dealing with a blast from Menolly's past in the form of her sire Dredge. He's been siring vampires around Seattle and basically letting them run loose to create more. For some reason, he's also working with Wisteria from book 1 who the sisters previously thought was a friend, but turned out to be an enemy. By the end of the book, I did not understand what Wisteria had to do with any of this. It didn't even seem that Shadow Wing was involved in any way. It seemed more like the book was a way for Menolly to move past her trauma that she suffered that night that Dredge turned her into a vampire.
I enjoyed reading from Menolly's POV and I actually rather like her. She tells it straight. She can dwell on what happened to her at times, but when it was time to move forward so that she could put an end to her enemy, she did so without reservation and handled the situation so well. I never got the impression that Menolly was overly emo. She was afraid of what she could be capable of if she were to make love, with good reason. She was afraid of how she would react to being touched. Also, with good reason. She reacted well in those situations. However, a lot like the sex scenes in previous books, the sex scenes in this one felt out of place. The second one made more sense, but did there really need to be sex scenes? I like sex in my PNR. I like it a lot, but here, the scenes just didn't feel right. It didn't help that they didn't do much for me, either.
Still, I liked the overall story and I loved seeing Menolly overcome what happened to her and kick some ass. It took a lot to do what she did. I actually hope that she sees Jareth again at some point, although Nerissa will probably be good for her, too. I haven't connected with that relationship, yet, but it is nice to see a main female character possibly pursuing something with another female character. Gives us something different in the series as opposed to Camille and Delilah and their relationships with multiple men, although it seems that Delilah hasn't had much to do with Zach since the end of Changeling, which I am glad of. A lot has been changing for the sisters in each book. In this one, Menolly does something she swore she would never do, but according to Grandmother Coyote, it was a necessary thing to do. I sure hope that character will be put to good use and this wasn't just a plot device. Speaking of characters being put to good use, here's hoping that Roz will show up again and be useful even though Dredge is dead now.
A book featuring Camille is up again. Here's hoping that I like it more than her first one.
March 10, 2013
I'm not quite sure what it is about this series, but I can't quite seem to make my mind up about it. It's fairly light as far as PNR and UF goes, but there's this nice charm to it that I really dig. I'm still slightly skeptical about the author's claim that she'll be able to write the series until nobody will publish it anymore, as I've seen where doing so has resulted in the deterioration of several long running series in several different genres. But that's a worry for future volumes, as right now we're still in the birthing stage of the series, with this volume being the last of the "introduction" entries.
Although we've met her in the previous two entries, this is our first time hearing the narration from Menolly's voice and I have to say, I like her. She's blunt, snarky, and not afraid to say what she wants to... unless it has to do with the amount of trauma that her sire Dredge put her through. I think she'd have to be my favorite of the three sisters, although each one has their own charm and they play rather nice off of each other. Together they pretty much embody the predominant stereotypes of the female supernatural novel character, although I don't use stereotype in a negative way. Familiar character traits are usually familiar for a reason, after all.
The story here is predominantly focused around Menolly's past. There are a series of crimes set in the present day, but those are more of a side plot brought in to give our heroine the impetus to start looking at her past and find a way to overcome it. You'll probably be able to guess whether she does or not, but the fun isn't in whether or not you'll know the destination before you get there but the trip itself. And I liked this trip, more so than I did the previous volume surrounding Delilah. She's a cute character, but there's just something about Menolly's personality that really clicks with this series. It doesn't hurt that Galenorn has given us a main character that's openly bisexual and isn't seen as comic relief and/or someone to be shuffled off to the side as most gay and bisexual characters often are.
That really brings me to one of the things I admire about this series as a whole so far: Galenorn brings the sex and isn't afraid to have her characters enjoy it. I know that there are other series that have their women having sex (Anita Blake anyone?), but this is one of the few series where you have your women (and these are women, not girls) having sex without worrying about being called a slut, about love triangles with sex involved (there is a brief worry about this for a minute, but not over the sex itself- Trillian and Morio don't mind sharing), or feeling guilty over the act itself. It just gets really old reading about women who wangst over enjoying sex or about numbers of partners, while complaining about how men can sleep with an ocean of women without double standards. I know that this exists, but I want a female character who just doesn't care. We get that in all three of the D'Artigo sisters and this was really brought home in this book with Menolly's attraction to a certain female character.
The audio narration for this was nice and all in all, I'm going to continue along until I either hit the point where I lose interest or until I catch up with the series as a whole. Let's see which one comes first.
Although we've met her in the previous two entries, this is our first time hearing the narration from Menolly's voice and I have to say, I like her. She's blunt, snarky, and not afraid to say what she wants to... unless it has to do with the amount of trauma that her sire Dredge put her through. I think she'd have to be my favorite of the three sisters, although each one has their own charm and they play rather nice off of each other. Together they pretty much embody the predominant stereotypes of the female supernatural novel character, although I don't use stereotype in a negative way. Familiar character traits are usually familiar for a reason, after all.
The story here is predominantly focused around Menolly's past. There are a series of crimes set in the present day, but those are more of a side plot brought in to give our heroine the impetus to start looking at her past and find a way to overcome it. You'll probably be able to guess whether she does or not, but the fun isn't in whether or not you'll know the destination before you get there but the trip itself. And I liked this trip, more so than I did the previous volume surrounding Delilah. She's a cute character, but there's just something about Menolly's personality that really clicks with this series. It doesn't hurt that Galenorn has given us a main character that's openly bisexual and isn't seen as comic relief and/or someone to be shuffled off to the side as most gay and bisexual characters often are.
That really brings me to one of the things I admire about this series as a whole so far: Galenorn brings the sex and isn't afraid to have her characters enjoy it. I know that there are other series that have their women having sex (Anita Blake anyone?), but this is one of the few series where you have your women (and these are women, not girls) having sex without worrying about being called a slut, about love triangles with sex involved (there is a brief worry about this for a minute, but not over the sex itself- Trillian and Morio don't mind sharing), or feeling guilty over the act itself. It just gets really old reading about women who wangst over enjoying sex or about numbers of partners, while complaining about how men can sleep with an ocean of women without double standards. I know that this exists, but I want a female character who just doesn't care. We get that in all three of the D'Artigo sisters and this was really brought home in this book with Menolly's attraction to a certain female character.
The audio narration for this was nice and all in all, I'm going to continue along until I either hit the point where I lose interest or until I catch up with the series as a whole. Let's see which one comes first.
March 5, 2011
Darkling / 978-0-425-21893-8
The third in the Sisters of the Moon series, "Darkling" carries on the point-of-view cycle by moving to the third sister in the family - the ill-fated Menolly. Half-human and half-Fae like her sisters, her particular cross to bear is her hated vampirism. In the second book of the series, "Changeling", we learned that the sisters' old enemies were joining forces with the vampire group that tortured and turned Menolly, and "Darkling" follows that plot thread as a chance for Menolly to face her past demons and vanquish her old sire.
If I may get minor criticism out of the way first: "Darkling" carries on the proud Fantasy Kitchen Sink themes of this series, but via taking a minor left turn on "Fourth and Bananas", as it were - Loki the Trickster makes a special cameo appearance here, as does Morgaine and her Arturian crew in their quest for the Merlin - a plot point that will presumably become relevant later but does little to clear the air here and now. There's also the sudden and jarring introduction of a vampiric taboo against severing the magical lifeline between vampiric sire and child, as well as a similar taboo against murdering one's own sire - a strange plot point, given that (a) one would suspect that at least some vampiric children are sired unwillingly, and (b) if the D'Artigo sisters have cared about social niceties prior to now, that hasn't come through the narrative. Overall, it feels like a cheap shot to easily inject some quick angst (OMG! Now even the vampires will shun Menolly!) into an otherwise excellent setup of redemption and revenge.
These small criticisms aside, the novel readily redeems itself by maintaining this series' high aversion to angst levels - a particularly tricky thing to pull off in a novel that is largely about Menolly's torturous history and her working through the issues arising from the same. It's gratifying to see a rape victim portrayed with so much depth and sensitivity - Menolly has recovered from her torture through her strength and determination, but in order to truly be free from the magical ties that bind her to her sire, she must go through a sort of magical counseling session to work through her inner demons. Along the way, her sister Camille is able to see and relive Menolly's memories, and Menolly realizes that protecting her sisters from the knowledge of what happened to her will only drive a wedge between them in the long run, and she comes to trust that her sisters can handle the truth - a surprisingly deep philosophical conclusion from a "fluffy" fantasy series.
Although I enjoyed "Darkling" immensely and recommend it to fans of the series, it is important to note that this is a much darker novel than the first two entrants, as the plot focuses solidly on Menolly's torturous history, so be forewarned.
~ Ana Mardoll
The third in the Sisters of the Moon series, "Darkling" carries on the point-of-view cycle by moving to the third sister in the family - the ill-fated Menolly. Half-human and half-Fae like her sisters, her particular cross to bear is her hated vampirism. In the second book of the series, "Changeling", we learned that the sisters' old enemies were joining forces with the vampire group that tortured and turned Menolly, and "Darkling" follows that plot thread as a chance for Menolly to face her past demons and vanquish her old sire.
If I may get minor criticism out of the way first: "Darkling" carries on the proud Fantasy Kitchen Sink themes of this series, but via taking a minor left turn on "Fourth and Bananas", as it were - Loki the Trickster makes a special cameo appearance here, as does Morgaine and her Arturian crew in their quest for the Merlin - a plot point that will presumably become relevant later but does little to clear the air here and now. There's also the sudden and jarring introduction of a vampiric taboo against severing the magical lifeline between vampiric sire and child, as well as a similar taboo against murdering one's own sire - a strange plot point, given that (a) one would suspect that at least some vampiric children are sired unwillingly, and (b) if the D'Artigo sisters have cared about social niceties prior to now, that hasn't come through the narrative. Overall, it feels like a cheap shot to easily inject some quick angst (OMG! Now even the vampires will shun Menolly!) into an otherwise excellent setup of redemption and revenge.
These small criticisms aside, the novel readily redeems itself by maintaining this series' high aversion to angst levels - a particularly tricky thing to pull off in a novel that is largely about Menolly's torturous history and her working through the issues arising from the same. It's gratifying to see a rape victim portrayed with so much depth and sensitivity - Menolly has recovered from her torture through her strength and determination, but in order to truly be free from the magical ties that bind her to her sire, she must go through a sort of magical counseling session to work through her inner demons. Along the way, her sister Camille is able to see and relive Menolly's memories, and Menolly realizes that protecting her sisters from the knowledge of what happened to her will only drive a wedge between them in the long run, and she comes to trust that her sisters can handle the truth - a surprisingly deep philosophical conclusion from a "fluffy" fantasy series.
Although I enjoyed "Darkling" immensely and recommend it to fans of the series, it is important to note that this is a much darker novel than the first two entrants, as the plot focuses solidly on Menolly's torturous history, so be forewarned.
~ Ana Mardoll
August 16, 2014
This review was posted at Under The Covers
It's been a while since I read book 2 in the series, and with every book I always wonder if I might continue reading or if I should just stop. But I have OCD and have to know what happens next. So here I am.
I thought I would actually like Menolly's book, and I have to say I'm a bit disappointed. A lot of dark things came out in this book. It was a good story, but just a bit too rough and too dark for my taste. There was also a lot going on, as usual in this series, I find that there's a lot of descriptions and details and at times that can get boring.
This book brings out Menolly's past as the vampire who made her (against her will, and raped her, and tortured her) comes back! We get to relive some of what happened to her at his hands, which I will warn you was a bit disturbing. Because of that I understand more why she is so f*cked up! But, there was just a little healing in this book, she still has a long way to go in my opinion.
I also thought she would get with the head of the Vampires in the city, but he actually didn't play into Menolly's romantic interests in this book. We actually got some f/f sex because Menolly went for a puma shifter girl, and there was also some attraction with Jareth, whom she meets in her search for Dredge.
All the D'Artigo sisters make an appearance, I still can't stand Camille, Delilah is cute but she's still not 100% comfortable in her relationship with Chase, of course Camille has a few to choose from, Morio I actually like and he's a big help to them.
There's a lot happening with the fey. Their father and aunt are in hiding. There is a lot of action and things that happen in this book. But will I continue reading the series? Maybe after another long break, and when I'm in the mood for something a bit darker.
It's been a while since I read book 2 in the series, and with every book I always wonder if I might continue reading or if I should just stop. But I have OCD and have to know what happens next. So here I am.
I thought I would actually like Menolly's book, and I have to say I'm a bit disappointed. A lot of dark things came out in this book. It was a good story, but just a bit too rough and too dark for my taste. There was also a lot going on, as usual in this series, I find that there's a lot of descriptions and details and at times that can get boring.
This book brings out Menolly's past as the vampire who made her (against her will, and raped her, and tortured her) comes back! We get to relive some of what happened to her at his hands, which I will warn you was a bit disturbing. Because of that I understand more why she is so f*cked up! But, there was just a little healing in this book, she still has a long way to go in my opinion.
I also thought she would get with the head of the Vampires in the city, but he actually didn't play into Menolly's romantic interests in this book. We actually got some f/f sex because Menolly went for a puma shifter girl, and there was also some attraction with Jareth, whom she meets in her search for Dredge.
All the D'Artigo sisters make an appearance, I still can't stand Camille, Delilah is cute but she's still not 100% comfortable in her relationship with Chase, of course Camille has a few to choose from, Morio I actually like and he's a big help to them.
There's a lot happening with the fey. Their father and aunt are in hiding. There is a lot of action and things that happen in this book. But will I continue reading the series? Maybe after another long break, and when I'm in the mood for something a bit darker.
August 29, 2008
There's everything but the kitchen sink in the third instalment of the best-selling Sisters of the Moon series.
Half-human and half-Faerie, the D'Artigo sisters are as at home in Seattle as they are in the Otherworld. Camille is a witch, and rules the roost. Delilah shape-shifts into a tabby cat when stressed, but can be a panther at other times. Menolly is a vampire, but not because of her half-Faerie heritage - but for the psycho-sadist Dredge who's likely responsible for the outbreak of newborn vampires and the havoc they're causing Seattle.
Vampires, shifters, witches, demons, sprites, gargoyles - you name it; this book as it all. (And a preview of the next book even includes unicorns.) But is it all necessary? Everything fits together well, the characters seem well formed, and the plot's intriguing. Yet something I can't put my finger on is stopping this good book from being great. It's missing the "wow" factor.
But a bothersome issue is the way Menolly and Camille treat Delilah - with kid gloves. The whole "we can't stress her out", "got to protect her" attitude they have comes across as condescending. So why isn't "Kitten" giving her sisters a stern talking-to? They acknowledge her strength and computer skills, but that's not enough.
But since there are further books in the series contracted, maybe Delilah will get to kick their arses after all. One can only hope...
Half-human and half-Faerie, the D'Artigo sisters are as at home in Seattle as they are in the Otherworld. Camille is a witch, and rules the roost. Delilah shape-shifts into a tabby cat when stressed, but can be a panther at other times. Menolly is a vampire, but not because of her half-Faerie heritage - but for the psycho-sadist Dredge who's likely responsible for the outbreak of newborn vampires and the havoc they're causing Seattle.
Vampires, shifters, witches, demons, sprites, gargoyles - you name it; this book as it all. (And a preview of the next book even includes unicorns.) But is it all necessary? Everything fits together well, the characters seem well formed, and the plot's intriguing. Yet something I can't put my finger on is stopping this good book from being great. It's missing the "wow" factor.
But a bothersome issue is the way Menolly and Camille treat Delilah - with kid gloves. The whole "we can't stress her out", "got to protect her" attitude they have comes across as condescending. So why isn't "Kitten" giving her sisters a stern talking-to? They acknowledge her strength and computer skills, but that's not enough.
But since there are further books in the series contracted, maybe Delilah will get to kick their arses after all. One can only hope...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2016
Ok there are a lot of things that I like about this series. The beasties, the quest for the nine spirit seals, the settings is in Seattle, Washington, and some other attributes.
But here are a few of the things I don't like though...
1. Is the "okay everybody stop it's history and battle planning time!" in a very perky type of way that sets my teeth on edge. I mean a whole shit ton is revealed in these little pow wow's, but it really isn't expressed in a way that I like. A lot is left to conjecture.
2. The constant reintroduction of characters in every book when they make an appearance. I mean is this really how a persons' brain works? Wouldn't readers remember a character after a short paragraph of the person, and not two whole pages on how that person helped you in the past books.
3. The smut. Really? I was in serious debate with myself on continuing the series. There is just to much screwing around in 3 out of the 5 books I've read so far. Witchling and Dragon Wytch in particular.
If I'm able to find book 6 I'll continue, but honestly I'm not going to be looking very hard.
But here are a few of the things I don't like though...
1. Is the "okay everybody stop it's history and battle planning time!" in a very perky type of way that sets my teeth on edge. I mean a whole shit ton is revealed in these little pow wow's, but it really isn't expressed in a way that I like. A lot is left to conjecture.
2. The constant reintroduction of characters in every book when they make an appearance. I mean is this really how a persons' brain works? Wouldn't readers remember a character after a short paragraph of the person, and not two whole pages on how that person helped you in the past books.
3. The smut. Really? I was in serious debate with myself on continuing the series. There is just to much screwing around in 3 out of the 5 books I've read so far. Witchling and Dragon Wytch in particular.
If I'm able to find book 6 I'll continue, but honestly I'm not going to be looking very hard.
September 5, 2010
This series has the potential to be mind-blowing. It's okay, but it just leaves me wanting more. There are rich characters, sub-plots, sex, fantasy and politics all over. Yet I find myself still needing to understand more. It's like it was written as an outline, with just enough filler to pass it as a fast-paced story. It almost reads like a TV series script.
What lacks for me is you just don't know enough about the characters to form any empathy for them. It starts to build and then you're thrown into the next situation before you can really learn anything. When Menolly has to re-live her memories of her torture and convert to a vampire - you learn very little and sort of get frustrated with the whole scene. Her sister watches her re-live the her past and all she does is fall on her knees and cries. If I had to watch my sister re-live torture, rape and turn to vampire I would be out of my mind with rage. Then after this she's freed from the bond to her sire and she goes out in the world to kick ass. It's very shallow and doesn't evoke enough emotion from me. It could really be powerful, exploring how Menolly struggles to keep her human values and how her bond with her 2 sisters has changed since she was abducted. But it's just back to fighting and very little character exploration.
But that's just me.
What lacks for me is you just don't know enough about the characters to form any empathy for them. It starts to build and then you're thrown into the next situation before you can really learn anything. When Menolly has to re-live her memories of her torture and convert to a vampire - you learn very little and sort of get frustrated with the whole scene. Her sister watches her re-live the her past and all she does is fall on her knees and cries. If I had to watch my sister re-live torture, rape and turn to vampire I would be out of my mind with rage. Then after this she's freed from the bond to her sire and she goes out in the world to kick ass. It's very shallow and doesn't evoke enough emotion from me. It could really be powerful, exploring how Menolly struggles to keep her human values and how her bond with her 2 sisters has changed since she was abducted. But it's just back to fighting and very little character exploration.
But that's just me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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