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Embers in a Dark Frost
The Fire Breathers have come. The Underworld calls. A choice must be made…
With her feared half blood and flame-colored hair, DEIRA D'ANU is a constant reminder of human betrayal and the war that claimed the light from Innis Fail. Now, darkness and frost creep across the land, strengthening the Lord of the Underworld. War is imminent—an allegiance with the Fire Breathers is vital. When their champion, Balen, sees Deira, he believes she is the key to finding the light and stopping the dark frost....
But the Underworld calls to Deira, tempting her to turn her back on a world that never cared and betray the champion willing to sacrifice everything to keep her safe and save his world from darkness.
With her feared half blood and flame-colored hair, DEIRA D'ANU is a constant reminder of human betrayal and the war that claimed the light from Innis Fail. Now, darkness and frost creep across the land, strengthening the Lord of the Underworld. War is imminent—an allegiance with the Fire Breathers is vital. When their champion, Balen, sees Deira, he believes she is the key to finding the light and stopping the dark frost....
But the Underworld calls to Deira, tempting her to turn her back on a world that never cared and betray the champion willing to sacrifice everything to keep her safe and save his world from darkness.
294 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2012
13 people are currently reading
1499 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Keaton
10 books1,335 followersKelly loves ancient history, fantasy, and mythology. She dreams of one day attaining magical powers, discovering the secret to immortality, ridding her home of pet hair, and being crowned Mardi-Gras queen. As Kelly Gay, she writes the popular adult urban fantasy series, Charlie Madigan, for Pocket Books. While she calls Raleigh, NC, home, she can also be found chatting about books and life on Facebook and Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 21, 2013
I have big love for this author when she writes the brilliant Charlie Madigan books as Kelly Gay so I was excited to give her alter ego a try, especially since EMBERS IN A DARK FROST sounded like fantasy magic when I read the blurb. I was a little wary when I found out that it was a New Adult novel because I've never tried anything in this new-ish genre and I wasn't sure if I was going to like it, but I generally enjoyed EMBERS IN A DARK FROST, though there are some flaws.
My favourite parts of the book are probably the characters. I thought Deira was a great protagonist. She's been an outcast her whole life thanks to the red hair that marks her as having human blood (really not a good thing in this world) and she finally gets a purpose in this book. It's great to see her grow and see the spark of who she is really build as she comes to accept her destiny and explore her abilities. This being the start of a trilogy, she doesn't complete her journey but Deira's definitely an interesting person that you'll be rooting for. Plus, her powers are really cool and I look forward to seeing more of them in subsequent stories. (The New Adult categorization comes from the fact that she's on a journey of self-discovery but she's not a teenager anymore.) Balen, the champion and leader of the Fire Breathers, is also an interesting character, though he's more mysterious since he doesn't narrate. His relationship with the Crow was really neat (and I'm not going to say more than that to avoid spoilers) and the attraction between Balen and Deira is nicely established. Deira and Balen's antagonist is also well developed and I found myself feeling sympathetic towards him, though not so sympathetic I agreed with his approach to his situation. I love it when authors create characters who aren't black and white; the good guys and the bad guys both live in the grey in this book, which I found very satisfying.
I also really liked the setting, though I did find some of the world building unclear. I was instantly immersed in the world but it took me a little while to realize that it was a variation on Celtic mythology and to figure out exactly who Deira's people are. There were hints here and there but I paused a few times wondering who Deira's people are. They were obviously not human but it wasn't laid out well enough for me to understand the origins of the mythology until near the end of the book. I understand not wanting to bog the reader down with a pile of description at the start but I would have appreciated a bit more clarity, especially since I know the author is a fantastic writer. Perhaps this is a side effect of self-publishing?
Although EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is not a perfect novel, I did quite enjoy reading it. It's an engaging beginning for the author's Fire & Frost world and a satisfying foray into a more high fantasy world. I look forward to the next chapter in Deira's story, due out in 2013, and hope you'll give EMBERS IN A DARK FROST a try.
http://www.tyngasreviews.com
http://ireadgood.wordpress.com
My favourite parts of the book are probably the characters. I thought Deira was a great protagonist. She's been an outcast her whole life thanks to the red hair that marks her as having human blood (really not a good thing in this world) and she finally gets a purpose in this book. It's great to see her grow and see the spark of who she is really build as she comes to accept her destiny and explore her abilities. This being the start of a trilogy, she doesn't complete her journey but Deira's definitely an interesting person that you'll be rooting for. Plus, her powers are really cool and I look forward to seeing more of them in subsequent stories. (The New Adult categorization comes from the fact that she's on a journey of self-discovery but she's not a teenager anymore.) Balen, the champion and leader of the Fire Breathers, is also an interesting character, though he's more mysterious since he doesn't narrate. His relationship with the Crow was really neat (and I'm not going to say more than that to avoid spoilers) and the attraction between Balen and Deira is nicely established. Deira and Balen's antagonist is also well developed and I found myself feeling sympathetic towards him, though not so sympathetic I agreed with his approach to his situation. I love it when authors create characters who aren't black and white; the good guys and the bad guys both live in the grey in this book, which I found very satisfying.
I also really liked the setting, though I did find some of the world building unclear. I was instantly immersed in the world but it took me a little while to realize that it was a variation on Celtic mythology and to figure out exactly who Deira's people are. There were hints here and there but I paused a few times wondering who Deira's people are. They were obviously not human but it wasn't laid out well enough for me to understand the origins of the mythology until near the end of the book. I understand not wanting to bog the reader down with a pile of description at the start but I would have appreciated a bit more clarity, especially since I know the author is a fantastic writer. Perhaps this is a side effect of self-publishing?
Although EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is not a perfect novel, I did quite enjoy reading it. It's an engaging beginning for the author's Fire & Frost world and a satisfying foray into a more high fantasy world. I look forward to the next chapter in Deira's story, due out in 2013, and hope you'll give EMBERS IN A DARK FROST a try.
http://www.tyngasreviews.com
http://ireadgood.wordpress.com
December 11, 2012
That ending. THAT ENDING. Why must authors continuously torture us? My heart kept swelling and I kept having hope and then nope, tragic cliff hanger. Overall though, I absolutely couldn't get enough of this book. This is why I take a chance on indie books... because you find ones like this. Embers In A Dark Frost is thrilling, magical, and sexy!
Deira has bright red hair and it makes everyone see her as what she is... a half-blood. She's looked down upon, told to keep her hair hidden, and is given jobs that makes her discrete and hidden. During one fateful night she mistakenly finds herself in Balen's path. Balen is the Fire Breather's champion and has come to form an allegiance but one of his terms is that Deira leaves with him. Deira quickly discovers that not everyone thinks her half-blood trait is horrible and that she is destined to find the light and stop the Underworld's darkness. Balen and Deira begin the long journey to find the light but the Underworld is calling to Deira and she could never imagine the things she encounters along the way.
This book reminded me of books like Throne of Glass and Maria V. Synder's wonderful adventures. I honestly couldn't put Embers In A Dark Frost down. There was constantly one thrilling conflict after another, so many magical moments, and two main characters that are so strong. What also surprised me was how sexy Balen was and the romance that Kelly added in. You cannot help but get trapped in Balen's strength. He has such a hard exterior but once you get to know him he's so protective and seductive. Then there's Deira who has to deal with so much, like the loss of her parents, being taken away from home and thrown into an unknown world, traveling on a magic adventure to seek something she's not even sure exists and yet she does it all with tons of strength and power. Absolutely loved Balen and Deira's journey. One other person I must mention is Nox... for some reason I actually liked his character. No one kill me yet! Let me explain... he is a sexy villain and you all can try to deny it but it's true. I absolutely love those sexy villains who do bad things but are seeking love in the whirl wind of it all. I'm really curious to see more of him in the next installment.
The ending as I said is a killer. There was one thing particular about it that made me have a bigger reaction than I thought I would but alas I cannot tell you because it is spoilery! Overall I absolutely enjoyed this book from beginning to end and want part two SO BADLY. The characters give you something to love and then journey they take throws your emotions all over the place and makes you frantically flip the pages. It's magical, seductive, and thrilling. If you're considering getting this book... buy it!
Deira has bright red hair and it makes everyone see her as what she is... a half-blood. She's looked down upon, told to keep her hair hidden, and is given jobs that makes her discrete and hidden. During one fateful night she mistakenly finds herself in Balen's path. Balen is the Fire Breather's champion and has come to form an allegiance but one of his terms is that Deira leaves with him. Deira quickly discovers that not everyone thinks her half-blood trait is horrible and that she is destined to find the light and stop the Underworld's darkness. Balen and Deira begin the long journey to find the light but the Underworld is calling to Deira and she could never imagine the things she encounters along the way.
This book reminded me of books like Throne of Glass and Maria V. Synder's wonderful adventures. I honestly couldn't put Embers In A Dark Frost down. There was constantly one thrilling conflict after another, so many magical moments, and two main characters that are so strong. What also surprised me was how sexy Balen was and the romance that Kelly added in. You cannot help but get trapped in Balen's strength. He has such a hard exterior but once you get to know him he's so protective and seductive. Then there's Deira who has to deal with so much, like the loss of her parents, being taken away from home and thrown into an unknown world, traveling on a magic adventure to seek something she's not even sure exists and yet she does it all with tons of strength and power. Absolutely loved Balen and Deira's journey. One other person I must mention is Nox... for some reason I actually liked his character. No one kill me yet! Let me explain... he is a sexy villain and you all can try to deny it but it's true. I absolutely love those sexy villains who do bad things but are seeking love in the whirl wind of it all. I'm really curious to see more of him in the next installment.
The ending as I said is a killer. There was one thing particular about it that made me have a bigger reaction than I thought I would but alas I cannot tell you because it is spoilery! Overall I absolutely enjoyed this book from beginning to end and want part two SO BADLY. The characters give you something to love and then journey they take throws your emotions all over the place and makes you frantically flip the pages. It's magical, seductive, and thrilling. If you're considering getting this book... buy it!
December 14, 2012
See the full review at:
Read My Mind
EMBERS IN A DARK FROST introduces a world where humans have no place. Deira is a half-breed -human and Anu- which means that she is shunned and treated as a lesser person. Indeed, Kelly Keaton has written of the ultimate outcast, not just because a physical feature marks out Deira as different. Her heritage is seen as weakness to her kind and she lives as a servant.
Knowing that Keaton is the author of other books that I have enjoyed immensely, I approached this book with a little trepidation. But, the feeling left me almost immediately. The world that Keaton has created in EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is complex and unlike anything I have read in a long while. Most of the fantasy I read does not involve a solely non-human world. It was intriguing and captured my attention from the start.
Though there is much to learn about the world, I never felt that I was being left behind. Keaton deftly navigates the reader through Deira's journey, the other important characters and avoids massive info dumps that can take a reader out of the story. Just enough is revealed at crucial moments, while also keeping me on my toes about what else this world might throw out next. EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is a good story, one with great pacing, well-written characters, and an author that clearly knows what she is doing.
Book Rating:
12.5/15
4 star
A-
Goodreads
NookBook | Smashwords | Kindle | iTunes
EMBERS IN A DARK FROST introduces a world where humans have no place. Deira is a half-breed -human and Anu- which means that she is shunned and treated as a lesser person. Indeed, Kelly Keaton has written of the ultimate outcast, not just because a physical feature marks out Deira as different. Her heritage is seen as weakness to her kind and she lives as a servant.
Knowing that Keaton is the author of other books that I have enjoyed immensely, I approached this book with a little trepidation. But, the feeling left me almost immediately. The world that Keaton has created in EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is complex and unlike anything I have read in a long while. Most of the fantasy I read does not involve a solely non-human world. It was intriguing and captured my attention from the start.
Though there is much to learn about the world, I never felt that I was being left behind. Keaton deftly navigates the reader through Deira's journey, the other important characters and avoids massive info dumps that can take a reader out of the story. Just enough is revealed at crucial moments, while also keeping me on my toes about what else this world might throw out next. EMBERS IN A DARK FROST is a good story, one with great pacing, well-written characters, and an author that clearly knows what she is doing.
Book Rating:
12.5/15
4 star
A-
Goodreads
NookBook | Smashwords | Kindle | iTunes
December 3, 2012
Embers in a Dark Frost is such a captivating read! All of the elements were perfectly balanced with a touch of Magic! The writing was wonderful and the story was original. My only gripe about this book was the ending. I need endings, not just an implication. It almost felt like there was to be a sequel to this book.. but I don't know.
Cover love and writing
I love the cover! It is dark and alluring yet beautiful. The cover model fits the main character. I love the background too! The writing is in the first person POV and is easy to relate to. I love how Keaton stuck with the language of her time period. I also love the fact that Yes was Aye.. even in the romance scenes!
Main Character
Deira is a slave/servant for most of her life. She was a freak, a half-ling. She was powerful thus her people feared her. I was completely drawn to Deira, for she was sad and alone, yet resilient. She had to find herself and follow her destiny. The thing that I liked the most about Deira was the fact that she wasn't the typical stubborn girl. She didn't want to fulfill her destiny, but at the same time she accepted what should be.
Swoonworty Points: 8
This is a New Adult book, thus there are some NA scenes. Though it took longer to get to the point than I would've wanted, but who wouldn't when Balen was strong and rugged, beautiful and brutal. I liked that the romance was hot while not interfering in the whole story.. it wasn't overwhelming.. it was perfect.
This is one story I'd like to see made into a movie, and I don't usually say that. It was short, while maintaining a barrage of information about feelings, setting, and whatnot. I highly recommend this book, if you aren't afraid of a cliffhanger ending!
Cover love and writing
I love the cover! It is dark and alluring yet beautiful. The cover model fits the main character. I love the background too! The writing is in the first person POV and is easy to relate to. I love how Keaton stuck with the language of her time period. I also love the fact that Yes was Aye.. even in the romance scenes!
Main Character
Deira is a slave/servant for most of her life. She was a freak, a half-ling. She was powerful thus her people feared her. I was completely drawn to Deira, for she was sad and alone, yet resilient. She had to find herself and follow her destiny. The thing that I liked the most about Deira was the fact that she wasn't the typical stubborn girl. She didn't want to fulfill her destiny, but at the same time she accepted what should be.
Swoonworty Points: 8
This is a New Adult book, thus there are some NA scenes. Though it took longer to get to the point than I would've wanted, but who wouldn't when Balen was strong and rugged, beautiful and brutal. I liked that the romance was hot while not interfering in the whole story.. it wasn't overwhelming.. it was perfect.
This is one story I'd like to see made into a movie, and I don't usually say that. It was short, while maintaining a barrage of information about feelings, setting, and whatnot. I highly recommend this book, if you aren't afraid of a cliffhanger ending!
September 3, 2020
I understand that not all books can have a happy ending, but this one is plain shitty!
The heroine is a child, afraid of everything, that thinks she loves one, then desires someone else. Nice...not!
The heroine is a child, afraid of everything, that thinks she loves one, then desires someone else. Nice...not!
December 17, 2012
Embers in a Dark Frost was one seductive and enticing book! Kelly Keaton created a dark and delicious novel I had no trouble devouring. Complete with magic, romance, and mythology, Embers in a Dark Frost gives you a whole new world to fall in love with.
The world in this book was complex and intricate, basically a learning experience where you figure things out as the story moves along. Keaton had the perfect balance of magic and power within this book that surrounded different houses with different elemental powers. Innis Fail was a mysterious, dark, and beautiful world that enraptured me. I loved that Keaton explained the ways of Innis Fail and the falling out between that world and Eire, the human world. She explained the war that has been raging on and the deterioration of Innis Fail without its light. Each new place that the protagonists find themselves in is throughly explored and described with great detail.
Deira was a beautiful and strong character. She was different among her kind because she was a halfling with human blood and red hair. While this made her stand out, people looked down on her. Even Deira’s family shunned her, made her into a servant. In the beginning, I could feel Deira’s sadness and loneliness. All she really wanted was to be accepted and to be loved, but she didn’t get that from her people at all. Being a servant most of her life didn’t put out the spark of life in Deira’s eyes though. She had a mind of her own and was even a little defiant. She didn’t know much about herself or her capabilities, but within her was a quiet strength waiting to come out. She was someone who endured so much hardship, but was still hoping for more. Before she went off on a journey to find the light of Innis Fail, I saw Deira as someone who was determined and had a good heart. What I love about Deira was how she did the right thing even when she was confused, scared, and had doubts. She wasn’t selfish and even in her dilemma and all that she went through, she saw the good. Deira was capable of compassion, sympathy, and understanding. For me, Deira was a true heroine even in her times of hesitation.
The romance in Embers in a Dark Frost was steamy and sexy. I absolutely loved Deira and Balen together. They had such great intense chemistry that was so apparent the moment they met. I loved how the romance didn't overpower the storyline of the book, but it was still an important part, especially for Deira’s growth. I really thought that Balen gave Deira the strength, the courage, the acceptance and the love she needed. And Balen was just wonderful. He was brave, loyal and intimidating. He was also rugged and exuded this immense power and superiority, but he was alluring all the same. I was in awe at Balen’s honor and sacrifice. He was willing to give up everything for the sake of Innis Fail and his people. He always had true and good intentions, even when it seemed like he had a million secrets. For me, Balen was the best of the best. Formidable, magnificent, and the perfect match for Deira.
I must say that Kelly Keaton had me spellbound. What she created in Embers in a Dark Frost seriously made me a fan for life. Her writing was timeless and able to transport you into an imaginable world that had a life of its own. She had a way with words that brought in a sense of the past that was elegant and sophisticated. There’s a prophecy, a foretelling that drives the story, giving it a great pace, and pushes Deira and Balen through their adventure. What was so great was the amount of tension, twists and surprises within this book along with the heartbreak and tragedy that becomes unforgettable. This story wasn’t just a romance or about saving a world, but it was also about finding and believing yourself and doing the right thing even when you’re not sure what the right thing really is.
Overall, Embers in a Dark Frost was one delectable read that was rich, otherworldly and completely wondrous. I’m dying to get my hands on the next book!
More Reviews on my blog: Words, Pages, and Books
The world in this book was complex and intricate, basically a learning experience where you figure things out as the story moves along. Keaton had the perfect balance of magic and power within this book that surrounded different houses with different elemental powers. Innis Fail was a mysterious, dark, and beautiful world that enraptured me. I loved that Keaton explained the ways of Innis Fail and the falling out between that world and Eire, the human world. She explained the war that has been raging on and the deterioration of Innis Fail without its light. Each new place that the protagonists find themselves in is throughly explored and described with great detail.
Deira was a beautiful and strong character. She was different among her kind because she was a halfling with human blood and red hair. While this made her stand out, people looked down on her. Even Deira’s family shunned her, made her into a servant. In the beginning, I could feel Deira’s sadness and loneliness. All she really wanted was to be accepted and to be loved, but she didn’t get that from her people at all. Being a servant most of her life didn’t put out the spark of life in Deira’s eyes though. She had a mind of her own and was even a little defiant. She didn’t know much about herself or her capabilities, but within her was a quiet strength waiting to come out. She was someone who endured so much hardship, but was still hoping for more. Before she went off on a journey to find the light of Innis Fail, I saw Deira as someone who was determined and had a good heart. What I love about Deira was how she did the right thing even when she was confused, scared, and had doubts. She wasn’t selfish and even in her dilemma and all that she went through, she saw the good. Deira was capable of compassion, sympathy, and understanding. For me, Deira was a true heroine even in her times of hesitation.
The romance in Embers in a Dark Frost was steamy and sexy. I absolutely loved Deira and Balen together. They had such great intense chemistry that was so apparent the moment they met. I loved how the romance didn't overpower the storyline of the book, but it was still an important part, especially for Deira’s growth. I really thought that Balen gave Deira the strength, the courage, the acceptance and the love she needed. And Balen was just wonderful. He was brave, loyal and intimidating. He was also rugged and exuded this immense power and superiority, but he was alluring all the same. I was in awe at Balen’s honor and sacrifice. He was willing to give up everything for the sake of Innis Fail and his people. He always had true and good intentions, even when it seemed like he had a million secrets. For me, Balen was the best of the best. Formidable, magnificent, and the perfect match for Deira.
I must say that Kelly Keaton had me spellbound. What she created in Embers in a Dark Frost seriously made me a fan for life. Her writing was timeless and able to transport you into an imaginable world that had a life of its own. She had a way with words that brought in a sense of the past that was elegant and sophisticated. There’s a prophecy, a foretelling that drives the story, giving it a great pace, and pushes Deira and Balen through their adventure. What was so great was the amount of tension, twists and surprises within this book along with the heartbreak and tragedy that becomes unforgettable. This story wasn’t just a romance or about saving a world, but it was also about finding and believing yourself and doing the right thing even when you’re not sure what the right thing really is.
Overall, Embers in a Dark Frost was one delectable read that was rich, otherworldly and completely wondrous. I’m dying to get my hands on the next book!
More Reviews on my blog: Words, Pages, and Books
December 13, 2012
Embers in a Dark Frost is an entrancing read that captured my interest from the beginning. Kelly draws us immediately into a world of not only magic and prophecy, but of prejudice and fear. The world of Innis Fail is slowly dying, having lost their light. Their magic is slowly weakening without this light. They have cut themselves off from the humans and are now preparing for war. But there is a prophecy unbeknownst to most of the people about how they are to get that light back, with the help of someone with flame-colored hair... Deira.
Deira D'Anu is our reluctant heroine. She has been hidden away from most of her people, treated as a servant or slave despite her royal blood, mistreated, scorned, hated, and had even been left for dead, because she is a red-headed halfling. Half humans are despised and Deira is no exception. Most of her life has been spent being despised by others, so when she finds herself in the position of being the one to help save them, but at someone else's expense, it made sense to me her conflict of whether she really wanted to help these people or not. What she has always wanted was to make her own choices. What I liked about Deira is her honest perusal of herself. She felt herself a coward at times, but she was also strong and determined. She was modest, yet came to appreciate her unique beauty. She was humbled by her people, yet with Balen found someone she could be more equal with.
Balen is our champion. I love that he is described as this beautiful man, this honorable, loyal warrior who would do anything for his people including die for them. Yet as this great champion and leader, he is also humble and works beside his people, as opposed to over them the way Deira's grandfather does. And he looks at Deira as a person, without prejudice, but with honor. Being nice to look at is a nice quality to have as well. But Balen is not without flaws - his secrecy (along with Deria's) was unnecessary after a while, his past was scarred and his past choices were not without regret.
I really liked the chemistry between Deira and Balen. I think they brought out so many good qualities with each other. I also liked that, despite some of the secrecy, they were able to be honest with each other in many other aspects of their interactions. He helped her mature and interact in a way she was unable to before from her stiffled upbringing, and she helped him see things from a new perspective and appreciate who she was beyond a tool of the prophecy. Their physical and emotional attraction was believable. This is a New Adult book and contains scenes of sensuality/sexuality, which are well written and not as heavy as some other books I've read, but still make this above a Young Adult level.
There is no shortage of action and forward momentum in this story. I never found myself bored. The storyline itself is quite interesting and had me wanting to know more about this world (while trying to keep all the names straight in my head). Kelly weaves legends and folklore into her story, and creates a beautiful setting and plot. I like the balance and battle between fate and choice, struggle and acceptance. I also liked the twists. We are supposed to hate Nox in the beginning. He's the bad guy. But getting to know him more, I could empathize with him as well. Maybe, possibly, kinda, sorta, like him?
The ending left me in a weird place, and I immediately had to seek out if there was going to be a sequel (which there is!). If there was no sequel, the ending would have been way more irritating and unresolved than it is. With a sequel, I definitely want to know more, and look forward to continuing this journey, preferably sooner rather than later.
Deira D'Anu is our reluctant heroine. She has been hidden away from most of her people, treated as a servant or slave despite her royal blood, mistreated, scorned, hated, and had even been left for dead, because she is a red-headed halfling. Half humans are despised and Deira is no exception. Most of her life has been spent being despised by others, so when she finds herself in the position of being the one to help save them, but at someone else's expense, it made sense to me her conflict of whether she really wanted to help these people or not. What she has always wanted was to make her own choices. What I liked about Deira is her honest perusal of herself. She felt herself a coward at times, but she was also strong and determined. She was modest, yet came to appreciate her unique beauty. She was humbled by her people, yet with Balen found someone she could be more equal with.
Balen is our champion. I love that he is described as this beautiful man, this honorable, loyal warrior who would do anything for his people including die for them. Yet as this great champion and leader, he is also humble and works beside his people, as opposed to over them the way Deira's grandfather does. And he looks at Deira as a person, without prejudice, but with honor. Being nice to look at is a nice quality to have as well. But Balen is not without flaws - his secrecy (along with Deria's) was unnecessary after a while, his past was scarred and his past choices were not without regret.
I really liked the chemistry between Deira and Balen. I think they brought out so many good qualities with each other. I also liked that, despite some of the secrecy, they were able to be honest with each other in many other aspects of their interactions. He helped her mature and interact in a way she was unable to before from her stiffled upbringing, and she helped him see things from a new perspective and appreciate who she was beyond a tool of the prophecy. Their physical and emotional attraction was believable. This is a New Adult book and contains scenes of sensuality/sexuality, which are well written and not as heavy as some other books I've read, but still make this above a Young Adult level.
There is no shortage of action and forward momentum in this story. I never found myself bored. The storyline itself is quite interesting and had me wanting to know more about this world (while trying to keep all the names straight in my head). Kelly weaves legends and folklore into her story, and creates a beautiful setting and plot. I like the balance and battle between fate and choice, struggle and acceptance. I also liked the twists. We are supposed to hate Nox in the beginning. He's the bad guy. But getting to know him more, I could empathize with him as well. Maybe, possibly, kinda, sorta, like him?
The ending left me in a weird place, and I immediately had to seek out if there was going to be a sequel (which there is!). If there was no sequel, the ending would have been way more irritating and unresolved than it is. With a sequel, I definitely want to know more, and look forward to continuing this journey, preferably sooner rather than later.
December 5, 2012
I really liked this book. The story kept me captivated and the world building is truly amazing but what I liked best of all is the writing. It sets the tone of the book. Kelly has created a great world and stayed true to it through and through.
I could imagine the places, the creatures, everything has been described with such detail and I loved that. This is my first book by the author and now I will be reading all her books.
Deira was always looked down upon because she has human blood in her veins and humans are responsible for taking light from Innis Fail. She was never given a choice in her life. People decided for her, told her to hide behind a veil, her grandfather decided to trade her to the Sydhr, the fire breathers in exchange of protection from Nox. She was treated as a thing and not a person. But the King of Sydhr, Balen, has different intentions. He knows of a prophecy told by his mother that a halfling could bring back the light to their world but Balen would die in the process.
Diera is confused and isn't really sure if she wants to go on this journey to retrieve the light. She doesn't believe in fate, and does not want to put all her belief in a prediction. I understand her dilemma and I think she is strong and feisty She also has a good heart though she doesn't give herself enough credit for that.
“Don’t you see? I’m tired. I walk these halls like a shadow. I want to live, to feel, to take my life in my hands and do what I will with it. I have that right.”
Balen is honorable, loyal and a great leader. He doesn't want to die but is willing to sacrifice his life for his people and his land.
“I would rather die trying, than to grow old and watch my land, my people, those I love perish. I would lay down my life this very moment if it meant turning back the frost.”
He is also this alpha male, the warrior, tough, handsome, rugged that I couldn't help but swoon over. I did feel that somehow he resigned himself to his fate quite easily. I wanted a little more fight. Also I wan't happy with the secret he kept from Diera. I think he should have told her. It was her choice to make and I was a little disappointed with him for taking it away.
Balen and Diera have great chemistry. I was rooting for them and for the prophecy to not not come true. Their conversations was funny and cute. The bathing scene (yes, I am calling it that) was steamy.
Balen ended the kiss by pulling my bottom lip into his mouth and between his teeth, biting it gently before letting go and kissing me softly. His lips spread into a grin as he moved a strand of wet hair from my neck and licked the place where it had been.
There are some interesting secondary characters as well. My favorite would be Ferryn.
“It’s all right,” he said with a shrug. “I make females speechless all the time.”
Nox is the lord of the underworld. He gains power from the darkness. Nox is a complex character. He wages wars and kill innocents but he has also been wronged in the past. He has not been treated fairly. He has reasons, of course that cannot justify his acts but they do make you not hate him. I love such characters, that confuse you, make you question the whole black and white thing. The kind of character that you can't make your mind about and even though I hated the things he did I don't really hate him. Does that make sense?
It's a great tale and I was totally enamored by the world created. The pace is good and there is action. Waiting for the next book in the series. I recommend it to all fantasy lover but it is for older teens.
I could imagine the places, the creatures, everything has been described with such detail and I loved that. This is my first book by the author and now I will be reading all her books.
Deira was always looked down upon because she has human blood in her veins and humans are responsible for taking light from Innis Fail. She was never given a choice in her life. People decided for her, told her to hide behind a veil, her grandfather decided to trade her to the Sydhr, the fire breathers in exchange of protection from Nox. She was treated as a thing and not a person. But the King of Sydhr, Balen, has different intentions. He knows of a prophecy told by his mother that a halfling could bring back the light to their world but Balen would die in the process.
Diera is confused and isn't really sure if she wants to go on this journey to retrieve the light. She doesn't believe in fate, and does not want to put all her belief in a prediction. I understand her dilemma and I think she is strong and feisty She also has a good heart though she doesn't give herself enough credit for that.
“Don’t you see? I’m tired. I walk these halls like a shadow. I want to live, to feel, to take my life in my hands and do what I will with it. I have that right.”
Balen is honorable, loyal and a great leader. He doesn't want to die but is willing to sacrifice his life for his people and his land.
“I would rather die trying, than to grow old and watch my land, my people, those I love perish. I would lay down my life this very moment if it meant turning back the frost.”
He is also this alpha male, the warrior, tough, handsome, rugged that I couldn't help but swoon over. I did feel that somehow he resigned himself to his fate quite easily. I wanted a little more fight. Also I wan't happy with the secret he kept from Diera. I think he should have told her. It was her choice to make and I was a little disappointed with him for taking it away.
Balen and Diera have great chemistry. I was rooting for them and for the prophecy to not not come true. Their conversations was funny and cute. The bathing scene (yes, I am calling it that) was steamy.
Balen ended the kiss by pulling my bottom lip into his mouth and between his teeth, biting it gently before letting go and kissing me softly. His lips spread into a grin as he moved a strand of wet hair from my neck and licked the place where it had been.
There are some interesting secondary characters as well. My favorite would be Ferryn.
“It’s all right,” he said with a shrug. “I make females speechless all the time.”
Nox is the lord of the underworld. He gains power from the darkness. Nox is a complex character. He wages wars and kill innocents but he has also been wronged in the past. He has not been treated fairly. He has reasons, of course that cannot justify his acts but they do make you not hate him. I love such characters, that confuse you, make you question the whole black and white thing. The kind of character that you can't make your mind about and even though I hated the things he did I don't really hate him. Does that make sense?
It's a great tale and I was totally enamored by the world created. The pace is good and there is action. Waiting for the next book in the series. I recommend it to all fantasy lover but it is for older teens.
did-not-finish
December 9, 2014 Je m'attendais à certainement mieux. Le début va trop vite, les événements s’enchaînent d’une façon peu naturelle. On commence avec une scène d’exposition maladroite pour nous présenter le personnage principal : on sent vraiment qu’elle sert à nous dire voilà Deira, voilà qui elle est. Puis on passe directement à un grand repas et Deira se fait remarquer, et Deira se fait embarquer vers son destin. Je crois que c’est le contenu du premier chapitre.
C’est très court, beaucoup trop, alors quand on arrive aux décisions à prendre (si déjà et je ne suis qu’à 25% d’un roman court), je n’ai franchement pas cru au personnage de Deira. Quelles sont les bases de ses décisions ? Quel est le contexte du personnage ? Les premières sont bancales au mieux, le second n’a été que survolé, c’est insuffisant.
Mieux encore, quand Deira commence à nous dire qu’elle a beaucoup lu sur les relations homme/femme et qu’elle sait qu’elle ressent de l’attirance pour un personnage et qu’il est temps de pallier à son manque d’expérience, j’ai simplement rigolé. Sérieusement, c’est sa réflexion, je n’ai rien enlevé, rien ajouté et voilà donc comment Deira et Balen vont se rapprocher (sûrement dans le prochain chapitre, je le sens gros comme une maison).
Je m’énerve un peu sur la caractérisation du personnage parce que c’est une élue et que la narration est la première personne, elle est donc la clef du roman, alors si ça ne fonctionne pas, comment voulez-vous que j’ai envie de continuer ?
Je n’en ai pas envie, je ne ressens qu’un profond ennui à l’idée de continuer à lire. Pourtant, le monde me plaît. On est en Irlande, ou dans une Irlande parallèle. Deira est une sang-mêlé, moitié humaine, moitié d’Anu. Ce monde parallèle est en train de mourir car les humains leur ont volé leur lumière. Il y a aussi un jeu avec une prophétie qui pourrait être intéressant. C’est pas mal sur le fond, et j’ai vraiment accroché à l’idée du War Raven même si ça m’a rappelé Eragon, à la fois pour les dragons et les chats-garous – ou peut-être parce que ça me les a rappelés.
Mais c’est un roman qui me semble mal dégrossi. L’emploi systématique de « Aye » pour « yes » me semble lourd. On se retrouve avec des tropes basiques (l’élue est un trope de base) et certains ne sont même pas utiles au roman, par exemple Deira se décrit en se regardant dans un miroir. Procédé classique (et bien artificiel) pour nous faire une description physique du personnage. Mais on sait déjà qu’elle est plus petite que les autres, qu’elle a les cheveux couleur flamme, et on apprend deux pages plus tard la couleur de ses yeux…
On dirait qu’il n’y a pas eu de second lecteur pour montrer à l’auteure les faiblesses de son roman et l’aider à y pallier. Je n’ai franchement pas envie de jouer à la relectrice alors je vais m’arrêter là.
C’est très court, beaucoup trop, alors quand on arrive aux décisions à prendre (si déjà et je ne suis qu’à 25% d’un roman court), je n’ai franchement pas cru au personnage de Deira. Quelles sont les bases de ses décisions ? Quel est le contexte du personnage ? Les premières sont bancales au mieux, le second n’a été que survolé, c’est insuffisant.
Mieux encore, quand Deira commence à nous dire qu’elle a beaucoup lu sur les relations homme/femme et qu’elle sait qu’elle ressent de l’attirance pour un personnage et qu’il est temps de pallier à son manque d’expérience, j’ai simplement rigolé. Sérieusement, c’est sa réflexion, je n’ai rien enlevé, rien ajouté et voilà donc comment Deira et Balen vont se rapprocher (sûrement dans le prochain chapitre, je le sens gros comme une maison).
Je m’énerve un peu sur la caractérisation du personnage parce que c’est une élue et que la narration est la première personne, elle est donc la clef du roman, alors si ça ne fonctionne pas, comment voulez-vous que j’ai envie de continuer ?
Je n’en ai pas envie, je ne ressens qu’un profond ennui à l’idée de continuer à lire. Pourtant, le monde me plaît. On est en Irlande, ou dans une Irlande parallèle. Deira est une sang-mêlé, moitié humaine, moitié d’Anu. Ce monde parallèle est en train de mourir car les humains leur ont volé leur lumière. Il y a aussi un jeu avec une prophétie qui pourrait être intéressant. C’est pas mal sur le fond, et j’ai vraiment accroché à l’idée du War Raven même si ça m’a rappelé Eragon, à la fois pour les dragons et les chats-garous – ou peut-être parce que ça me les a rappelés.
Mais c’est un roman qui me semble mal dégrossi. L’emploi systématique de « Aye » pour « yes » me semble lourd. On se retrouve avec des tropes basiques (l’élue est un trope de base) et certains ne sont même pas utiles au roman, par exemple Deira se décrit en se regardant dans un miroir. Procédé classique (et bien artificiel) pour nous faire une description physique du personnage. Mais on sait déjà qu’elle est plus petite que les autres, qu’elle a les cheveux couleur flamme, et on apprend deux pages plus tard la couleur de ses yeux…
On dirait qu’il n’y a pas eu de second lecteur pour montrer à l’auteure les faiblesses de son roman et l’aider à y pallier. Je n’ai franchement pas envie de jouer à la relectrice alors je vais m’arrêter là.
March 30, 2013
BORING.
It started off slow....and stayed slow...It was only mildly interesting in the beginning, but it never went anywhere.
I thought, at first, that maybe this would have gone a different direction because of this line: I should've been grateful for their charity, but I wasn't. I was angry. So I was expecting a darker read, not some bullshit impossible romance that you know is not so impossible after all. There was no originality to this plot.
Average looking girl meets awesome Adonis; they have a rough start to their relationship, as it is full of misconceptions, but it's obvious from the moment you meet Mr. Adonis that he will be the love interest in this story. They go on a quest that will end with Mr. Lovie losing his life, and along the way all these stupid secrets are kept from Deira because there needs to be reason for her to have doubt and nothing more.
Even the sex was boring! I mean...good lord. This book was such a drag. I got to just past the sex scene and just couldn't read any further.
Mr. Lovie--whose name I can't remember--is described as beautiful. He's supposed to be rugged. This description is conflicting with the rest of his description. What's wrong with handsome? That would be the equivalent of beautiful, only it doesn't make him sound like he has feminine features. Yuck.
I couldn't tell where one began and the other left off. This is one of the most overused lines I have ever read. And it pisses me off every time.
I am so tired of the whole -I don't want to tell people important information- shit. There is nothing original in that. Everyone does it. I was tempted to stop reading right there. But for some stupid reason, I thought to punish myself further with this.
The book is extremely predictable.
Errors. Missing words. Wrong words.
"That is you're right."
"Thank you I'm not used to looking like way..."
The romance was horrible. At least there was a bit of time before they were throwing themselves at each other. But there was still the lack of chemistry between the two. I didn't feel a connection. It was poorly done-much like the rest of the book.
The language in here annoyed the shit out of me. At times it was all formal and ancient sounding, but then at other times it was modern, and it didn't flow well.
It drones on and on. I was struggling to read it without falling asleep. I even tried skimming most of it, and still couldn't finish it. This would have to be the most boring book I have read this year. I do not recommend it.
It started off slow....and stayed slow...It was only mildly interesting in the beginning, but it never went anywhere.
I thought, at first, that maybe this would have gone a different direction because of this line: I should've been grateful for their charity, but I wasn't. I was angry. So I was expecting a darker read, not some bullshit impossible romance that you know is not so impossible after all. There was no originality to this plot.
Average looking girl meets awesome Adonis; they have a rough start to their relationship, as it is full of misconceptions, but it's obvious from the moment you meet Mr. Adonis that he will be the love interest in this story. They go on a quest that will end with Mr. Lovie losing his life, and along the way all these stupid secrets are kept from Deira because there needs to be reason for her to have doubt and nothing more.
Even the sex was boring! I mean...good lord. This book was such a drag. I got to just past the sex scene and just couldn't read any further.
Mr. Lovie--whose name I can't remember--is described as beautiful. He's supposed to be rugged. This description is conflicting with the rest of his description. What's wrong with handsome? That would be the equivalent of beautiful, only it doesn't make him sound like he has feminine features. Yuck.
I couldn't tell where one began and the other left off. This is one of the most overused lines I have ever read. And it pisses me off every time.
I am so tired of the whole -I don't want to tell people important information- shit. There is nothing original in that. Everyone does it. I was tempted to stop reading right there. But for some stupid reason, I thought to punish myself further with this.
The book is extremely predictable.
Errors. Missing words. Wrong words.
"That is you're right."
"Thank you I'm not used to looking like way..."
The romance was horrible. At least there was a bit of time before they were throwing themselves at each other. But there was still the lack of chemistry between the two. I didn't feel a connection. It was poorly done-much like the rest of the book.
The language in here annoyed the shit out of me. At times it was all formal and ancient sounding, but then at other times it was modern, and it didn't flow well.
It drones on and on. I was struggling to read it without falling asleep. I even tried skimming most of it, and still couldn't finish it. This would have to be the most boring book I have read this year. I do not recommend it.
December 23, 2012
I've read the Beautiful Dark series by Kelly Keaton and I really liked it, so I was thrilled when I found that she released another book. I read this one with fairly high expectations and while I did not like it as much as the other series, it was definitely an engrossing read.
It has all the right things going for it, a strong, compassionate yet vulnerable heroine, a noble hero and a villain shrouded in mystery. It did drag a little in the middle but not for long, thankfully.
Diera is a reluctant heroine, she grew up feared, shunned and always being the object of disgust for being a 'halfling' which meant half fae and half human. She was always relegated to the background, never had friends and has never set foot outside her grandfather's castle and all of these things were stifling her. When the role of savior is thrust upon her, it is not surprising that she is not very enthused at the idea, after all, would you want to save people who have always hated you? I liked that her change in attitude was gradual and not something that occurred over-night.
Then there was Balen, king of the Sydhrs, a people who have can control fire. They are a strong and proud race and their king is no different. What was different about him was the fact that he was devoted to his people and his humility. But what really set him apart from others to Diera was that he did not treat with scorn or mistreat her, he treated her like a person. He wasn't perfect. He led her on a quest to save their world and told her she was instrumental in that but never trusted her enough to reveal all of his plans and that was disappointing.
I had a slight problem with Nox, our resident bad guy. Keaton didn't give us lot of of information which made him seem a little unconvincing. Sure he was uber-powerful but beyond that? She tried to give him more dimension towards the end but then it seemed that she was trying very hard to make him seem real, it was too little too late.
Keaton has created a beautiful world so rich in detail and I love that she took the classic fae myth and then gave it a completely different twist that made it seem familiar and new at the same time.
When I finished the book, I thought it ended very abruptly without really resolving the problems and then I read the author's note and was glad that there's another book, set to come out in 2013! Now if only she would give us the third in the Beautiful Dark Series! Feel like I've been waiting forever..
It has all the right things going for it, a strong, compassionate yet vulnerable heroine, a noble hero and a villain shrouded in mystery. It did drag a little in the middle but not for long, thankfully.
Diera is a reluctant heroine, she grew up feared, shunned and always being the object of disgust for being a 'halfling' which meant half fae and half human. She was always relegated to the background, never had friends and has never set foot outside her grandfather's castle and all of these things were stifling her. When the role of savior is thrust upon her, it is not surprising that she is not very enthused at the idea, after all, would you want to save people who have always hated you? I liked that her change in attitude was gradual and not something that occurred over-night.
Then there was Balen, king of the Sydhrs, a people who have can control fire. They are a strong and proud race and their king is no different. What was different about him was the fact that he was devoted to his people and his humility. But what really set him apart from others to Diera was that he did not treat with scorn or mistreat her, he treated her like a person. He wasn't perfect. He led her on a quest to save their world and told her she was instrumental in that but never trusted her enough to reveal all of his plans and that was disappointing.
I had a slight problem with Nox, our resident bad guy. Keaton didn't give us lot of of information which made him seem a little unconvincing. Sure he was uber-powerful but beyond that? She tried to give him more dimension towards the end but then it seemed that she was trying very hard to make him seem real, it was too little too late.
Keaton has created a beautiful world so rich in detail and I love that she took the classic fae myth and then gave it a completely different twist that made it seem familiar and new at the same time.
When I finished the book, I thought it ended very abruptly without really resolving the problems and then I read the author's note and was glad that there's another book, set to come out in 2013! Now if only she would give us the third in the Beautiful Dark Series! Feel like I've been waiting forever..
December 28, 2012
I feel like I have read something else by this author before... if I did, I am sure I loved it, because I loved Embers in a Dark Frost. I bought this book along with Reviving Bloom and let me tell you, boy am I glad that this book didn't suck as bad as the last one did. In fact, this book was Reviving Bloom's polar opposite. Where Reviving Bloom was torture to through, Embers in a Dark Frost finished before I knew it and had me wanting more.
I only had one complaint about the book, so lets start with that so I can get into the good stuff. As with all novels that take place in a fictional land and have foreign names, it was hard to remember who was who some times as well as what was what and where was where. It all kind of blended together. The fact that the author has a love for D names didn't help... There were a lot of gods and people with names starting with D... I had to actually stop and memorise the main characters names over and over in my head so I wouldn't be so confused. My only other complaint, which is something I never thought I'd say, but the intimate scenes between the main characters were extremely brief and made it sound like it happened in 5 seconds... so it kind of dulled the romance there...
Now for the things I loved. I LOVED the main character. Born a halfling, and raised by people who hate her human half, she carries a big chip on her shoulder. A chip that Balen starts chipping away at (see what I did there?). Deira was an amazing main character with so much depth and personality, I was feeling for her the moment she appeared on the page. Balen was no exception either. I have this weird thing about fire. I LOVE books with fire in them. So when Kelly Keaton wrote the love interest as a sexy, selfless, fire-wielding King, I fell in love. No seriously, I almost wish I were in Deira's shoes.
After reading Reviving Bloom, I was SO happy to read a book that was written so beautifully. Keaton, unlike Michelle Turner, trusts her audience to pick up on the subtle hits she throws your way. The story had a smooth flow and I was withering in anticipation with every page turned. I didn't even realise I had reached the end of the book until I turned the last page to read 'About the Author'.
Everything from the plot, to the characters, to the flow was out standing. I have to give this book a good 9/10. I absolutely cannot WAIT for the next book in the series... I'll have to keep an eye out for it.
I only had one complaint about the book, so lets start with that so I can get into the good stuff. As with all novels that take place in a fictional land and have foreign names, it was hard to remember who was who some times as well as what was what and where was where. It all kind of blended together. The fact that the author has a love for D names didn't help... There were a lot of gods and people with names starting with D... I had to actually stop and memorise the main characters names over and over in my head so I wouldn't be so confused. My only other complaint, which is something I never thought I'd say, but the intimate scenes between the main characters were extremely brief and made it sound like it happened in 5 seconds... so it kind of dulled the romance there...
Now for the things I loved. I LOVED the main character. Born a halfling, and raised by people who hate her human half, she carries a big chip on her shoulder. A chip that Balen starts chipping away at (see what I did there?). Deira was an amazing main character with so much depth and personality, I was feeling for her the moment she appeared on the page. Balen was no exception either. I have this weird thing about fire. I LOVE books with fire in them. So when Kelly Keaton wrote the love interest as a sexy, selfless, fire-wielding King, I fell in love. No seriously, I almost wish I were in Deira's shoes.
After reading Reviving Bloom, I was SO happy to read a book that was written so beautifully. Keaton, unlike Michelle Turner, trusts her audience to pick up on the subtle hits she throws your way. The story had a smooth flow and I was withering in anticipation with every page turned. I didn't even realise I had reached the end of the book until I turned the last page to read 'About the Author'.
Everything from the plot, to the characters, to the flow was out standing. I have to give this book a good 9/10. I absolutely cannot WAIT for the next book in the series... I'll have to keep an eye out for it.
December 16, 2012
Keaton did a great job of creating a world that is slowly dying.
It took me a few chapters to understand the gods, and the role they play in the lives of the characters. Also, some of the names were difficult for me to pronounce, but I didn't let that take away from the story. I just shortened those names to something easier for my mind to process.
I felt so awful for Deira. She's thrust into this new role and doesn't know how to accept it. She went from being a shunned servant to being a part of something bigger. Deira is confused and doesn't want to embrace the challenge laid out before her. I connected with her very easily because she shows weakness. She's is scared, and has moments of cowardice. The fact that she recognizes that about herself shows how much she knows herself.
Balen is a strong and attractive warrior. He has a part to play in bringing the light back to Innis Fail. He's accepted his fate, and finds it hard to understand why Deira doesn't. Balen gives off a overpowering attitude. He seems so hard and serious, that you're pretty sure you should be terrified of him. He actually has a sweet spot when you get to know him. He may not say everything he knows, but he's trying his best to protect Deira. Balen is a strong character, and I look up to him.
I loved how the characters don't have surface feelings. The fears and joys are real. They have depth and emotion.
This is a fast paced fantasy that was difficult to put down. I had to know what happens next. It is a New Adult title, and has a few sexy scenes. I'd rate this book for those that 18+. I'm excited that there will be another part. :D
It took me a few chapters to understand the gods, and the role they play in the lives of the characters. Also, some of the names were difficult for me to pronounce, but I didn't let that take away from the story. I just shortened those names to something easier for my mind to process.
I felt so awful for Deira. She's thrust into this new role and doesn't know how to accept it. She went from being a shunned servant to being a part of something bigger. Deira is confused and doesn't want to embrace the challenge laid out before her. I connected with her very easily because she shows weakness. She's is scared, and has moments of cowardice. The fact that she recognizes that about herself shows how much she knows herself.
Balen is a strong and attractive warrior. He has a part to play in bringing the light back to Innis Fail. He's accepted his fate, and finds it hard to understand why Deira doesn't. Balen gives off a overpowering attitude. He seems so hard and serious, that you're pretty sure you should be terrified of him. He actually has a sweet spot when you get to know him. He may not say everything he knows, but he's trying his best to protect Deira. Balen is a strong character, and I look up to him.
I loved how the characters don't have surface feelings. The fears and joys are real. They have depth and emotion.
This is a fast paced fantasy that was difficult to put down. I had to know what happens next. It is a New Adult title, and has a few sexy scenes. I'd rate this book for those that 18+. I'm excited that there will be another part. :D
December 17, 2012
Embers in a Dark Frost is the first in a new 2-part series by Kelly Keaton. This is not a Young Adult book. I would put it in the New Adult Fantasy genre. It follows a young woman named Deira, who is a half blood. She is shunned because of the human blood that runs in her veins. She leads a sad, lonely life of a servant and doesn't realize how wonderful she really is.
The world building is wonderful. The world of Innis Falls is slowly dying, and the author does a good job of capturing that. The writing and descriptions are done beautifully.
The hero in the story is Balen, the King of Sydhr. He meets Deira and knows without a doubt that she is the red haired halfling who is described in the prophecy. She is supposed to journey with Balen to find the light that will save their world. Deira is reluctant to go on the dangerous task because she doesn't believe that she has any powers. I liked seeing how she became a more confident person throughout the book. She is very easy to relate to and a very likable character.
The character of Balen is swoonworthy. He is a tough, fearless, handsome warrior. He is also the first person to treat Deira with the respect she deserves. He doesn't condemn her for not being like everyone else. Their relationship builds pretty slowly. They have great chemistry together. There are a few steamy scenes, but it's not too descriptive or erotic.
There is a cliffhanger ending that will leave you very frustrated. Fortunately there is a second book that should be coming sometime in 2013. I think that anyone who is a fan of paranormal romance would really enjoy this book.
The world building is wonderful. The world of Innis Falls is slowly dying, and the author does a good job of capturing that. The writing and descriptions are done beautifully.
The hero in the story is Balen, the King of Sydhr. He meets Deira and knows without a doubt that she is the red haired halfling who is described in the prophecy. She is supposed to journey with Balen to find the light that will save their world. Deira is reluctant to go on the dangerous task because she doesn't believe that she has any powers. I liked seeing how she became a more confident person throughout the book. She is very easy to relate to and a very likable character.
The character of Balen is swoonworthy. He is a tough, fearless, handsome warrior. He is also the first person to treat Deira with the respect she deserves. He doesn't condemn her for not being like everyone else. Their relationship builds pretty slowly. They have great chemistry together. There are a few steamy scenes, but it's not too descriptive or erotic.
There is a cliffhanger ending that will leave you very frustrated. Fortunately there is a second book that should be coming sometime in 2013. I think that anyone who is a fan of paranormal romance would really enjoy this book.
April 2, 2013
Embers is a really interesting new type of series and I am looking forward to getting the next installment. My only hope of difference? That there is not so much detail in it. Don't get me wrong, you don't have any problem trying to picture the scenes in this book because Kelly gave very vivid details on it. BUT, it seemed like more than half the book was nothing but details. UGH. I normally skip over "too much details", however, Kelly really pulled it off in this one. I barely skipped over anything because the story was really good. I do really REALLY hope that there is more to the actual story in the next installment.
The heroine in this story didn't want to be one. As a matter of fact, Deira was so "real" to me that I could literally picture her life as it was happening and why she made the choices she made. There was no whining, eye rolling, sticking the tongue out nonsense you read in all the YA books that are out there today. She had a crappy life, was thrust into a situation that was by far not ideal and made the best of it including grew up a little bit and marched onward! Oh and let's not forget Balen!! OH MY! :) Now THAT is a man I would love to run into. Ha ha ha. You get to have a very rough around the edges, handsome Hero in this one. But not a over the top macho guy either. A "REAL" man!
I guess you can say that from what I wrote, I do recommend this book. I am looking forward to the 2nd one and I am sure that once you read Embers in a Dark Frost, you will too. :) Happy Reading!
The heroine in this story didn't want to be one. As a matter of fact, Deira was so "real" to me that I could literally picture her life as it was happening and why she made the choices she made. There was no whining, eye rolling, sticking the tongue out nonsense you read in all the YA books that are out there today. She had a crappy life, was thrust into a situation that was by far not ideal and made the best of it including grew up a little bit and marched onward! Oh and let's not forget Balen!! OH MY! :) Now THAT is a man I would love to run into. Ha ha ha. You get to have a very rough around the edges, handsome Hero in this one. But not a over the top macho guy either. A "REAL" man!
I guess you can say that from what I wrote, I do recommend this book. I am looking forward to the 2nd one and I am sure that once you read Embers in a Dark Frost, you will too. :) Happy Reading!
December 15, 2012
What first drew me to Kelly Keaton's Embers in a Dark Frost was that it seemed to walk the line between YA and Adult fiction. I've recently discovered that this is New Adult. YA at heart, with older characters and even some sex. I have to say, I rather liked this! I quickly settled in for the read.
Keaton sweeps the reader away into a land rich with myth and magic. There are elements of Celtic legend here, wrapped up in a world on the brink of being lost. I loved that Deira's life wasn't perfect. Caught between two different worlds, she just never seemed to fit in. That is, until Balen.
Ah, Balen. I will swoon here and now. Rough on the exterior but with so much heart, he's s character that is hard not to fall for. The relationship between Balen and Deira was wonderful. Each of them had so much depth, and I appreciated that they didn't automatically fall for one another with no reason. Balen proves himself. Oh yes he does.
Perhaps my favorite part about Embers in a Dark Frost was that Deira isn't a strong heroine or a wilting flower. She's both. That doesn't happen often in books like this. There is no hard, fast distinction between the two halves of Deira. She is both strong and weak, and it makes her decisions all the more believable. I felt for her.
Despite a few minor issues, I fell in love with this book. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys getting lost in a rich and magical world. I will be eagerly waiting for more.
June 17, 2013
I've had Kelly Keaton's Gods and Monsters series on my TBR pile for a while now. But I decided to skip over that and go for her self published book. Embers in a Dark Frost is the first of a two part book series.
Flame haired Diera D'Anu has been shunned all her life. As a half blood (she is half human) she is feared and hated. The humans stole the light from her world, Innis Fail. Now darkness and frost take up more and more of that lands. When the Fire-Breathers leader, Balen sees Diera he believes she is the key to bringing the light back to Innis Fail
I was not prepared for how much I loved this book. If I had known that I was going to enjoy it so much I would have waited for its sequel because I soooooo want to find out what happens next. I loved the growing relationship between Diera and Balen. For me though the most interesting character was Nox, lord of the underworld. I want to learn more about him. I admit it I have a think for the bad boys and he is sexy bad boy to the max! I'm sure you've already guessed I'm giving Embers in a Dark Frost a 5 out of 5 stars! oh and I forgot to mention that gorgeous cover...and the cover whore in me highly approves of it.
Flame haired Diera D'Anu has been shunned all her life. As a half blood (she is half human) she is feared and hated. The humans stole the light from her world, Innis Fail. Now darkness and frost take up more and more of that lands. When the Fire-Breathers leader, Balen sees Diera he believes she is the key to bringing the light back to Innis Fail
I was not prepared for how much I loved this book. If I had known that I was going to enjoy it so much I would have waited for its sequel because I soooooo want to find out what happens next. I loved the growing relationship between Diera and Balen. For me though the most interesting character was Nox, lord of the underworld. I want to learn more about him. I admit it I have a think for the bad boys and he is sexy bad boy to the max! I'm sure you've already guessed I'm giving Embers in a Dark Frost a 5 out of 5 stars! oh and I forgot to mention that gorgeous cover...and the cover whore in me highly approves of it.
November 14, 2018
This is the first book in the Fire and Frost series (although I couldn’t find any info on a second book). I really enjoyed this book about faerie. It was well written, interesting, and engaging.
Deira is scorned because of her half-fae heritage until one of the Fire Breathers asks to take her with him in order to forge an alliance against the Underworld. Suddenly Diera is pulled into a new world where she is respected instead of shunned. Little does Diera know that her half blood may be the key to returning the light to Innis Fail.
This was a well done YA faerie novel that I really enjoyed. It’s well written, a bit dark, and intriguing. I love reading about fae, so I enjoyed the setting and topic a lot. I also loved the characters and their struggles. There was a lot of adventure and magic in here and I found it to be a highly entertaining and intriguing read.
Overall this was a well done YA faerie novel that I really enjoyed. I plan on continuing the series if another book is released in it. I would recommend to those who enjoy dark faerie fantasy novels with magic in them.
Deira is scorned because of her half-fae heritage until one of the Fire Breathers asks to take her with him in order to forge an alliance against the Underworld. Suddenly Diera is pulled into a new world where she is respected instead of shunned. Little does Diera know that her half blood may be the key to returning the light to Innis Fail.
This was a well done YA faerie novel that I really enjoyed. It’s well written, a bit dark, and intriguing. I love reading about fae, so I enjoyed the setting and topic a lot. I also loved the characters and their struggles. There was a lot of adventure and magic in here and I found it to be a highly entertaining and intriguing read.
Overall this was a well done YA faerie novel that I really enjoyed. I plan on continuing the series if another book is released in it. I would recommend to those who enjoy dark faerie fantasy novels with magic in them.
January 13, 2013
Interesting new series touching on of beginnings of the Fae and races of people who have mastered fire and other elements with some celtic mythology thrown in for good measure. Some steamy moments between Balen and Deira but the focus is more on their acceptance of each other and forging a relationship despite the roles they have to play in making the prophecy come true. The world building was great and I especially liked the character "War Raven" and it's relationship with Balen. The pace was slow at times as this is the first book in this new series and Kelly did a great job describing a world on the edge of war with it's unlikely heroine who is reluctantly thrown into the role having to fight off God of the underworld to prevail in saving her people. I look forward to the next installment hoping that Balen and Deira will find a way to be together despite those that would keep them apart.
March 26, 2017
Fascinating World, but No Sequel (Resolution) Planned
As usual, Kelly Keaton/Gay does not disappoint. A rich world, a complicated main character. I really did feel for both Balen and Nox. In my ideal resolution she would find a way to save them both. Any satisfying sequel would have to restore the balance of dark and light, not just return the light. In order to do that, Nox would have to be redeemed, not simply freed. Unfortunately, this gifted indie author has had to put the resolution to Ember on hold indefinitely, so we are left to imagine our own resolution to the story. A shame, because I know in spite of my own vivid imagination, Keaton's conclusion would be unpredictable, dark at times, brilliant at others, and far more satisfying. If only there was a "Go Fund Me," for the sequel....
As usual, Kelly Keaton/Gay does not disappoint. A rich world, a complicated main character. I really did feel for both Balen and Nox. In my ideal resolution she would find a way to save them both. Any satisfying sequel would have to restore the balance of dark and light, not just return the light. In order to do that, Nox would have to be redeemed, not simply freed. Unfortunately, this gifted indie author has had to put the resolution to Ember on hold indefinitely, so we are left to imagine our own resolution to the story. A shame, because I know in spite of my own vivid imagination, Keaton's conclusion would be unpredictable, dark at times, brilliant at others, and far more satisfying. If only there was a "Go Fund Me," for the sequel....
May 29, 2014
Great first book in this series. Deira D'anu is half human, something she cannot hide from her people due to her bright red hair -- a human trait. Her people treat her horribly, despite her being the daughter of a high priestess.
When she is discovered by the Fire Breathers, she is bartered to them in trade for troops. The fire breathers actually see Deira as a prophecy and savior of the land that is losing light and power.
Deira hates the way she has been treated for her entire life and is not sure she wants to make sacrifices in order to save these people.
This review and many others can be found on my blog Free Bookster.
When she is discovered by the Fire Breathers, she is bartered to them in trade for troops. The fire breathers actually see Deira as a prophecy and savior of the land that is losing light and power.
Deira hates the way she has been treated for her entire life and is not sure she wants to make sacrifices in order to save these people.
This review and many others can be found on my blog Free Bookster.
January 4, 2013
3.5-stars- Just a few thoughts to throw out there. This was mostly entertaining, however the heroine was annoying at times with what was excused as her sheltered upbringing and the hero of the story was off somehow…I think it was that the author tried to make him too perfect and instead he ended up feeling like a daddy-figure. The idea of fate and freewill is touched upon, but the heroine is mostly in her head for much of the story. I'll definitely read the sequel, but I've seen better from this author.
January 10, 2013
I was thrilled when I found out that Kelly Keaton (AKA Kelly Gay) had penned another book. As a self published title I felt that the editing and story telling were really quite good. I really enjoy how the author creates new worlds and develops her characters. This story was certainly no exception to that. I loved reading about the journey of Deira and Balen and their quest to find the Lia Fial and I am anxiously awaiting to download the second half to their story.
August 19, 2013
Very fast read. I was surprised I went through the 800 and something Nook pages so quickly. The book starts quickly, keeps pace and ends just as quick. I've not read many fantasy fiction books like this so I don't have much to compare to, but I thought it was a good read. My only negative comment is that who ever does the Nook editing for e-books has to do a better job. There were a few times I had to go back over and re-read and insert forgotten words.
June 11, 2017
Clever
Keaton sets up this story beautifully. With fantastic detail, she creates two worlds out of what is truly one. There's a wonderful balance of imagery and dialogue that pulls readers along- for the most part. Like most literary struggles, there's parts where the act of skimming over the excess details and imagery is too easy to do. Regardless, her skills and craftsmanship do keep readers engaged.
Keaton sets up this story beautifully. With fantastic detail, she creates two worlds out of what is truly one. There's a wonderful balance of imagery and dialogue that pulls readers along- for the most part. Like most literary struggles, there's parts where the act of skimming over the excess details and imagery is too easy to do. Regardless, her skills and craftsmanship do keep readers engaged.
December 29, 2013
On the one hand, kinda liking the story. On the other, the formatting in the Nook is distracting, and I'm getting tired of being clobbered over the head with the same information over and over again. *sigh*
Made it about halfway through before I gave up. The concept is good. The story is interesting. The writing just couldn't hold me.
Made it about halfway through before I gave up. The concept is good. The story is interesting. The writing just couldn't hold me.
October 10, 2013
I love Keaton's books whether she is writing as Gay or Keaton. Unfortunately, I really hate love triangles, and villains who appear to have an excuse for being evil. That said, Embers in a Dark Frost is very well written and an entertaining, if dark, read.
December 10, 2012
4.5 Can't wait to read the sequel mid 2013.
October 27, 2012
So good! Full review to come!
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