What do you think?
Rate this book
Chronicles of Midnight #2
Champion of Midnight
When you hit rock bottom, the only way left is up.
The Sanguinata are taking liberties and using humans like personal blood bags, but the tip is in the fine print, and the humans signing on the dotted line may as well be serving themselves up like cartons of juice. But when a woman under Sanguinata protection implores Serenity Harker for help, even the delicate balance of Midnight won’t stop Harker from making a bargain that will put her life on the line. Before she knows it, Harker has volunteered to compete in the House Games—a test of survival where lupin go up against sanguinata. The terms are simple: if she wins the humans go free.
On top of preparing for the games, Harker must work her first active case. But the excitement of leading the investigation is soon tarnished by a heart breaking loss. Bereft and broken and left to pick up the pieces, Harker must resist the temptation to fall apart if she is to liberate the humans from Sanguinata clutches.
As the house games approach, will Harker live up to her pledge as champion of humanity and give them back their free will, or will this fight prove to be her last?
A kick-ass, urban fantasy read, with a slow burn reverse harem romance. Angels, Fallen, nephilim and Arthurian legend are given a fresh twist in this sexy, thrilling urban Fantasy series. Fans of Lost girl, True blood and Laurell K Hamilton’s Anita Blake series will surely enjoy it.
The Sanguinata are taking liberties and using humans like personal blood bags, but the tip is in the fine print, and the humans signing on the dotted line may as well be serving themselves up like cartons of juice. But when a woman under Sanguinata protection implores Serenity Harker for help, even the delicate balance of Midnight won’t stop Harker from making a bargain that will put her life on the line. Before she knows it, Harker has volunteered to compete in the House Games—a test of survival where lupin go up against sanguinata. The terms are simple: if she wins the humans go free.
On top of preparing for the games, Harker must work her first active case. But the excitement of leading the investigation is soon tarnished by a heart breaking loss. Bereft and broken and left to pick up the pieces, Harker must resist the temptation to fall apart if she is to liberate the humans from Sanguinata clutches.
As the house games approach, will Harker live up to her pledge as champion of humanity and give them back their free will, or will this fight prove to be her last?
A kick-ass, urban fantasy read, with a slow burn reverse harem romance. Angels, Fallen, nephilim and Arthurian legend are given a fresh twist in this sexy, thrilling urban Fantasy series. Fans of Lost girl, True blood and Laurell K Hamilton’s Anita Blake series will surely enjoy it.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 26, 2018
359 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Cassidy
134 books2,787 followersDebbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden. Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head. She writes Urban Fantasy, Romance, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
April 19, 2018
Rating : 4 stars
- so many things happen in such a short amount of pages.
- Serenity is one hot headed woman.
- but she's unfortunately taking the she's-too-fucking-special road.
- the feels the feels the feels.
- i might have been all teary and stuff.
- i kept hoping one character would come back.
- i want the next book.
"Drop the daggers," he said.
"I can't." My voice was a choked rasp.
"Drop them!"
"I literally can't. They're stuck to my hands."
- so many things happen in such a short amount of pages.
- Serenity is one hot headed woman.
- but she's unfortunately taking the she's-too-fucking-special road.
- the feels the feels the feels.
- i might have been all teary and stuff.
- i kept hoping one character would come back.
- i want the next book.
October 7, 2020
Let the games (and the actual series) begin!
Ok, I'm starting to understand where this series is going.
Frankly, I wanted to see a bit more of the actual Games, it's maybe the only reason this book doesn't get 5 stars. There were parts that should have been longer, maybe even have 2 books instead of just this one, but oh well. Maybe it's just me, wanting to have a longer series.
All in all, a fun series, definitely worth reading.
Ok, I'm starting to understand where this series is going.
Frankly, I wanted to see a bit more of the actual Games, it's maybe the only reason this book doesn't get 5 stars. There were parts that should have been longer, maybe even have 2 books instead of just this one, but oh well. Maybe it's just me, wanting to have a longer series.
All in all, a fun series, definitely worth reading.
October 25, 2018
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
No spoilers and colorful language abound! Read with Kindle Unlimted.
Really enjoying the authors developing world, and the diverse characters here. There were some... issues I had with the first book (live in a bubble, no outside world but had coffee?!) that were resolved here which I'm very grateful for.
I am sort of waiting for something to happen more than your typical UF plot? Wheres the RH stuff?? Is it coming or what? ONWARDS.
No spoilers and colorful language abound! Read with Kindle Unlimted.
Really enjoying the authors developing world, and the diverse characters here. There were some... issues I had with the first book (live in a bubble, no outside world but had coffee?!) that were resolved here which I'm very grateful for.
I am sort of waiting for something to happen more than your typical UF plot? Wheres the RH stuff?? Is it coming or what? ONWARDS.
July 1, 2018
3 solid stars
This book counts towards my 2018 Reverse Harem Revolution book BINGO challenge. "There hasn't been ____ in 1000 years!"
This book counts towards my 2018 Reverse Harem Revolution book BINGO challenge. "There hasn't been ____ in 1000 years!"
May 27, 2018
3.5 stars
Well, no one can accuse Debbie Cassidy of not being ambitious! The premise of this series is truly epic in scope, but it is interesting how she found a way to scale it back enough to make it feel manageable. The Arcadia experiment encapsulates the larger struggle in something the reader can grasp - one that a series stands a greater chance of successfully illustrating.
The first half of CHAMPION OF MIDNIGHT was every bit as frustrating and rant-inducing as PROTECTOR OF MIDNIGHT had been. Serenity continued to give new meaning to TSTL and was a generally whiny, arrogant, self-obsessed twit. But as the story really ramped up and more was uncovered about Arcadia, the larger world, and how they related, she began to grow up. Here's hoping that is a trend that sticks!
I hope the last third of this book was the turning point in the series. Because it does have quite a bit of potential - though I am still struggling with how the RH elements are going to come together. So far, it is has been very slow burn on the relationship front. In some cases, it has gone completely backwards.
I continue to really like Bane's character, and there were a few intriguing new neph's introduced in CHAMPION OF MIDNIGHT (though I suspect they will not become love interests, unfortunately). But I am unsure what is going on with Ryker, Rivers, and Orin (Drayton too ).
Cassie became the newest TSTL addition to the series, and had the added "benefit" of introducing a wonderful love triangle. Because that is just why I read RH! /facepalm
Overall, this was an improvement over PROTECTOR OF MIDNIGHT. Here's hoping the trend continues. Jury's still out on the series as a whole, but it is starting to show promise.
UPDATE PROGRESS NOTES:
95.0% "Uh no, no you can't! Don't you remember how awful she was in Sunset? People you can trust do not act like that."
85.0% "Uh...has anyone thought to remove the clip from Bane's wings?"
74.0% "Why not just something that keeps him from bringing his wings out at all? Because he clearly doesn't have wings all the time. Ah the inconsistencies!!!"
70.0% "Apparently even RH novels aren’t safe from love triangles. GAH! Because that was JUST what this series needed. /facepalm"
59.0% "LMAO! Well, I didn't think the denouement would happen THAT quickly! And it was certainly predictable. *sigh*"
58.0% "I will be shocked if who the voice in the daggers is turns out to be a shock. It seems really frackin' obvious."
57.0% "Wow, I didn't think it was possible to hate any characters in this damn series more than the MC, Serenity. But Cassie is making a damn fine stab at it. God, she is awful."
40.0% "Bizarre way to weave in Arthurian legend... but interesting premise overall."
38.0% "Sigh... forced plot contrivances and stoopid decision making abound."
7.0% "OMFG SERIOUSLY?? You challenge the head of Sanguinata, saying that you will beat him in his house games and YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT THE FRACK THEY ARE???? Is she sh*tting me? This takes moronic to a whole new level... Dumbest character ever."
5.0% "Gah! Once again, Serenity knows better than anyone else... even though of course she has never been to House Vitae. Even though she doesn't know the Sanguinata. Even though she is utterly clueless. Only HER way is the right way. /facepalm"
Well, no one can accuse Debbie Cassidy of not being ambitious! The premise of this series is truly epic in scope, but it is interesting how she found a way to scale it back enough to make it feel manageable. The Arcadia experiment encapsulates the larger struggle in something the reader can grasp - one that a series stands a greater chance of successfully illustrating.
The first half of CHAMPION OF MIDNIGHT was every bit as frustrating and rant-inducing as PROTECTOR OF MIDNIGHT had been. Serenity continued to give new meaning to TSTL and was a generally whiny, arrogant, self-obsessed twit. But as the story really ramped up and more was uncovered about Arcadia, the larger world, and how they related, she began to grow up. Here's hoping that is a trend that sticks!
I hope the last third of this book was the turning point in the series. Because it does have quite a bit of potential - though I am still struggling with how the RH elements are going to come together. So far, it is has been very slow burn on the relationship front. In some cases, it has gone completely backwards.
I continue to really like Bane's character, and there were a few intriguing new neph's introduced in CHAMPION OF MIDNIGHT (though I suspect they will not become love interests, unfortunately). But I am unsure what is going on with Ryker, Rivers, and Orin (Drayton too ).
Cassie became the newest TSTL addition to the series, and had the added "benefit" of introducing a wonderful love triangle. Because that is just why I read RH! /facepalm
Overall, this was an improvement over PROTECTOR OF MIDNIGHT. Here's hoping the trend continues. Jury's still out on the series as a whole, but it is starting to show promise.
UPDATE PROGRESS NOTES:
95.0% "Uh no, no you can't! Don't you remember how awful she was in Sunset? People you can trust do not act like that."
85.0% "Uh...has anyone thought to remove the clip from Bane's wings?"
74.0% "Why not just something that keeps him from bringing his wings out at all? Because he clearly doesn't have wings all the time. Ah the inconsistencies!!!"
70.0% "Apparently even RH novels aren’t safe from love triangles. GAH! Because that was JUST what this series needed. /facepalm"
59.0% "LMAO! Well, I didn't think the denouement would happen THAT quickly! And it was certainly predictable. *sigh*"
58.0% "I will be shocked if who the voice in the daggers is turns out to be a shock. It seems really frackin' obvious."
57.0% "Wow, I didn't think it was possible to hate any characters in this damn series more than the MC, Serenity. But Cassie is making a damn fine stab at it. God, she is awful."
40.0% "Bizarre way to weave in Arthurian legend... but interesting premise overall."
38.0% "Sigh... forced plot contrivances and stoopid decision making abound."
7.0% "OMFG SERIOUSLY?? You challenge the head of Sanguinata, saying that you will beat him in his house games and YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT THE FRACK THEY ARE???? Is she sh*tting me? This takes moronic to a whole new level... Dumbest character ever."
5.0% "Gah! Once again, Serenity knows better than anyone else... even though of course she has never been to House Vitae. Even though she doesn't know the Sanguinata. Even though she is utterly clueless. Only HER way is the right way. /facepalm"
May 25, 2018
KU
3.5 stars
There are times in this novel where Serenity as a character comes off as stupid, foolish, and selfish. These factors combined often detract from the credibility of her character. Aside from these niggles, this is another fast paced novel that carries on the series and leaves me wanting for more.
3.5 stars
There are times in this novel where Serenity as a character comes off as stupid, foolish, and selfish. These factors combined often detract from the credibility of her character. Aside from these niggles, this is another fast paced novel that carries on the series and leaves me wanting for more.
February 17, 2020
So so sad!
First of all, I am really loving this series! Second, I am so heartbroken about Drayton. And third, this is the true definition of slow burn! I love it.
First of all, I am really loving this series! Second, I am so heartbroken about Drayton. And third, this is the true definition of slow burn! I love it.
April 29, 2018
Loved it.
Serenity is a bad ass bitch with impulse control issues
It's great.
LOVE Bane...
Can't wait to read the next one!
Serenity is a bad ass bitch with impulse control issues
It's great.
LOVE Bane...
Can't wait to read the next one!
February 22, 2020
Really, really slow burn, I mean this is a snail pace! Very minimal hanky-panky and so far only for survival. And I am still trying to figure out who is in the harem. I am actually loving it. I have come to associate the reverse harem theme with instalove and quick to bed. This is a slow but interesting pace. I love that I am still not sure who the harem are, I have an inkling but nothing confirmed yet. There is some chemistry between Serenity and some of the guys but because she is part succubus I can't fully trust that, which makes it more interesting for me.
I just want to say, I think I prefer this type of carrot dangling, compared to the last minute, out of the blue curve-ball that some books introduce on the last sentence of the last chapter to ensure that readers make it to the next book. This one right here feels organic, its part of the story and it is so well done that it flows naturally and I can't help myself but feel that I want in on this ride. But that being said, I am also glad that I only started this series after it was completed because waiting for the next book would have driven me crazy. Now I am off to book 3.
I just want to say, I think I prefer this type of carrot dangling, compared to the last minute, out of the blue curve-ball that some books introduce on the last sentence of the last chapter to ensure that readers make it to the next book. This one right here feels organic, its part of the story and it is so well done that it flows naturally and I can't help myself but feel that I want in on this ride. But that being said, I am also glad that I only started this series after it was completed because waiting for the next book would have driven me crazy. Now I am off to book 3.
December 27, 2018
Champion of Midnight was just a teensy bit short of reaching it's potential. The choppy transition between different scenes was just too jarring to go unnoticed for me.
I felt like in the short amount of pages we had in the book, we hopped quite a lot to feel like the story moved in a smooth way. There is the race, confrontation with the Breed and then the Black Wings. None of them truly got their limelight for the important developments they were supposed to be. Tackling them all together left it quite shallow. The change of location from one to another was sort of a whiplash and kind of brought down the level of intensity they could have been if they had more time.
The characters were sketched out a bit more, the reverse harem is not even visible yet. Serenity sometimes took a turn into dumbass lane but still not that annoying. Bane is the most developed in the book, with the things revealed and how much time he spent with Serenity; he definitely felt a lot more fleshed out than the previous book.
This book reveals the agenda for this series, the endgame for which the storyline is moving towards. I found it interesting yet nothing too unique that hasn't been done in paranormal genre. It's easy and uncomplicated, something that can be executed well with the RH aspect, hopefully.
I felt like in the short amount of pages we had in the book, we hopped quite a lot to feel like the story moved in a smooth way. There is the race, confrontation with the Breed and then the Black Wings. None of them truly got their limelight for the important developments they were supposed to be. Tackling them all together left it quite shallow. The change of location from one to another was sort of a whiplash and kind of brought down the level of intensity they could have been if they had more time.
The characters were sketched out a bit more, the reverse harem is not even visible yet. Serenity sometimes took a turn into dumbass lane but still not that annoying. Bane is the most developed in the book, with the things revealed and how much time he spent with Serenity; he definitely felt a lot more fleshed out than the previous book.
This book reveals the agenda for this series, the endgame for which the storyline is moving towards. I found it interesting yet nothing too unique that hasn't been done in paranormal genre. It's easy and uncomplicated, something that can be executed well with the RH aspect, hopefully.
September 10, 2018
No not Drayton. I refuse to believe this. Another enjoyable read in the series. I feel like we may finally be getting some backstory yet its still really unclear. I am finding that the backstory and the answers to all these loose ends must be the endgame.
Midnight is like the hunger games arena. Every supernatural and mythological creature is getting thrown in here and trying to survive. What they need is a savior. Serenity NOW!
I really like how Serenity manages her shoot. For real she seems to have everyones best interest at heart and you can really get a feel for how these other supernaturals soften towards her. Serenity and Ryker's relationship is a little confusing. He looks at her as a reminder of his lost sister, but there is still some tension there. Not sure what is going to happen.
New addition to the story. The wild Hunt, the Sidhe have returned....kind of. Loving the Mashup of every story I have ever loved. Cant wait to continue this series and find some answers.
Midnight is like the hunger games arena. Every supernatural and mythological creature is getting thrown in here and trying to survive. What they need is a savior. Serenity NOW!
I really like how Serenity manages her shoot. For real she seems to have everyones best interest at heart and you can really get a feel for how these other supernaturals soften towards her. Serenity and Ryker's relationship is a little confusing. He looks at her as a reminder of his lost sister, but there is still some tension there. Not sure what is going to happen.
New addition to the story. The wild Hunt, the Sidhe have returned....kind of. Loving the Mashup of every story I have ever loved. Cant wait to continue this series and find some answers.
May 1, 2018
I dove into Champion of Midnight so fast that I barely even noticed the transition between the first and the second books. But I couldn't waist any time, I needed to know!
And, oh Gods, it was so so good. There were the Killing Games, and some killings outside of the games (Im actually pretty blasé about what happened with the Breed, cause I don't believe that it's final. I mean, it just can't be). The mystery of Arcadia was revealed and...it was not what I expected at all, but I liked the idea behind it all.
Also, Cassie needs to go. She's became annoying and I don't think we can trust her anymore. So, she needs to go. Oh, does this mean that Orin is in the picture now? I need to know!
In other words, it's been awhile since I found myself enjoying the books so much and have been so invested in what I was reading. I've missed this feeling.
Now, the next book.
And, oh Gods, it was so so good. There were the Killing Games, and some killings outside of the games (Im actually pretty blasé about what happened with the Breed, cause I don't believe that it's final. I mean, it just can't be). The mystery of Arcadia was revealed and...it was not what I expected at all, but I liked the idea behind it all.
Also, Cassie needs to go. She's became annoying and I don't think we can trust her anymore. So, she needs to go. Oh, does this mean that Orin is in the picture now? I need to know!
In other words, it's been awhile since I found myself enjoying the books so much and have been so invested in what I was reading. I've missed this feeling.
Now, the next book.
March 12, 2021
There are always crimes at Midnight, but when kelpies start disappearing Serenity takes it upon herself to figure out why. But things are not as easy as they look, and Serenity needs to make a fatal choice if she wants to survive. Moreover, she made a bet with the vampires' boss and now she needs to win the recruitment game between the vamps and the werewolves.
As usual this book kept me hooked from page 1. Serenity is a strong and independent woman. She's so loyal in protecting the humans that many times she doesn't think what the consequences will be for her. I love seeing how Debbie has make Serenity develop as a character.
As usual this book kept me hooked from page 1. Serenity is a strong and independent woman. She's so loyal in protecting the humans that many times she doesn't think what the consequences will be for her. I love seeing how Debbie has make Serenity develop as a character.
May 2, 2023
This was so good. It took me a second to realise this series was familar to me and then I recalled book 1 and just fell into this series.
The series is so interesting for the lore of angels and demons. Something very interesting. Love this take on the whole god and also has a little Merlin and Arthur story. Love it.
The series is so interesting for the lore of angels and demons. Something very interesting. Love this take on the whole god and also has a little Merlin and Arthur story. Love it.
May 21, 2018
This book wasnt what I'd expected. It's not a bad thing, it's just very heavy on the fantastical world building and the story there. I want more character development, but I feel it's getting there. Drayton but......
September 12, 2019
Champion of Midnight
This was better than I thought, but not as good as the first book. A lot has been revealed and/or discovered and Serenity has gained quite the partner. I'll definitely be reading the next book to see what else is in store.
This was better than I thought, but not as good as the first book. A lot has been revealed and/or discovered and Serenity has gained quite the partner. I'll definitely be reading the next book to see what else is in store.
August 24, 2018
2 stars
April 28, 2022
Tired trope at the beginning but the story makes up for it
The book starts out with Serenity in a hot headed manner agreeing to a competition she's knows nothing about against all common sense and the warning from her friends who know better to save innocents, after which point she say oh s*** and has to figure out a way to survive. This is such a tired trope and does the character a disservice. Serenity isn't stupid and she isn't recklessly impulsive. Yes of course she would willingly enter into the games to save humans but she wouldn't do so in the manner written. The way it was done was just lazy writing. Have the woman scream and fight and say no. Have Serenity get mad. Have the Vampire king be amused and offer her the deal. Have Serenity find him suspect. Have Drayton fill her in on what he is asking her to do. Have VK force her hand in some way. Maybe a second person someone she knew from sunset is brought in or the mom she couldn't save right away in the first book or have him feed from the reluctant woman right in front of her while she struggles. Serenity strikes a deal he wont feed from anyone against their wishes until the games and if she wins same deal as she puts forth in the book. Bane can still get upset. Everything else that happens can still happen, but Serenity doesn't come out of this looking like an idiot who would have gotten herself killed the first day as a cop and it doesn't complete ignore that book 1 established she is a reader and this is such a common trope that as a reader she would have been all ha yeah not falling for that. I really hate it when authors make the character stupid to get the story where they want it to go rather than taking the time to figure out how the character they have written could find them self in that sort of situation despite everything.
Beyond that the continued world building is nice. We get some answers. You have some action but it isn't raunchy. The concept of harem is introduced to the reader in a foreshadowing of what's to come. I think those silver necklaces might be dosed. Things are happening. Looking forward to book 3.
The book starts out with Serenity in a hot headed manner agreeing to a competition she's knows nothing about against all common sense and the warning from her friends who know better to save innocents, after which point she say oh s*** and has to figure out a way to survive. This is such a tired trope and does the character a disservice. Serenity isn't stupid and she isn't recklessly impulsive. Yes of course she would willingly enter into the games to save humans but she wouldn't do so in the manner written. The way it was done was just lazy writing. Have the woman scream and fight and say no. Have Serenity get mad. Have the Vampire king be amused and offer her the deal. Have Serenity find him suspect. Have Drayton fill her in on what he is asking her to do. Have VK force her hand in some way. Maybe a second person someone she knew from sunset is brought in or the mom she couldn't save right away in the first book or have him feed from the reluctant woman right in front of her while she struggles. Serenity strikes a deal he wont feed from anyone against their wishes until the games and if she wins same deal as she puts forth in the book. Bane can still get upset. Everything else that happens can still happen, but Serenity doesn't come out of this looking like an idiot who would have gotten herself killed the first day as a cop and it doesn't complete ignore that book 1 established she is a reader and this is such a common trope that as a reader she would have been all ha yeah not falling for that. I really hate it when authors make the character stupid to get the story where they want it to go rather than taking the time to figure out how the character they have written could find them self in that sort of situation despite everything.
Beyond that the continued world building is nice. We get some answers. You have some action but it isn't raunchy. The concept of harem is introduced to the reader in a foreshadowing of what's to come. I think those silver necklaces might be dosed. Things are happening. Looking forward to book 3.
February 16, 2021
Point?
Not sure what the point of this book was. Yes we had a plot but it seems to stray away and run wild . A lot happened in this one and very little answers to what she is. And just so I don't forget to say , I didn't like Cassie ( not main lead female character ) in the first one and I like her even less in this one. She straddles her roll as protector. She wants the human eating ex but is supposed to be a protector of humans. She is protecting the ex and hiding information from her team . She should not have a job with them and they need to realize it sooner than later.
So in this book we have sister running to the white wing,the breed and the ? Killing of a possible harem dude? ( not sure he's dead) , black wing taking her prisoner , making a deal with lilith ,getting humans from abusive vamps,entering game to get humans away from vamps,meeting the wolves ( ?) and running into the wild hunt ..oh and freeing and then saving the life of an ancient. Least we not forget meeting and embracing her demon of the dark that releases her swords knives.oops and the Order funding out about the dagger tattoos 🤷 phew yep all that happened and we are no closer to knowing what might be coming or what she is.. So yea this plot was all over the place and some of it just seemed to get hijacked.
Book three is suppose to be where the harem starts to come to light,but again with the liilth rape and knowingly cheating and such ,I'm not sure how I'm going to feel about continuing this series .
Not sure what the point of this book was. Yes we had a plot but it seems to stray away and run wild . A lot happened in this one and very little answers to what she is. And just so I don't forget to say , I didn't like Cassie ( not main lead female character ) in the first one and I like her even less in this one. She straddles her roll as protector. She wants the human eating ex but is supposed to be a protector of humans. She is protecting the ex and hiding information from her team . She should not have a job with them and they need to realize it sooner than later.
So in this book we have sister running to the white wing,the breed and the ? Killing of a possible harem dude? ( not sure he's dead) , black wing taking her prisoner , making a deal with lilith ,getting humans from abusive vamps,entering game to get humans away from vamps,meeting the wolves ( ?) and running into the wild hunt ..oh and freeing and then saving the life of an ancient. Least we not forget meeting and embracing her demon of the dark that releases her swords knives.oops and the Order funding out about the dagger tattoos 🤷 phew yep all that happened and we are no closer to knowing what might be coming or what she is.. So yea this plot was all over the place and some of it just seemed to get hijacked.
Book three is suppose to be where the harem starts to come to light,but again with the liilth rape and knowingly cheating and such ,I'm not sure how I'm going to feel about continuing this series .
June 11, 2018
Heavy feels
You can’t not read this book after reading book 1, because you HAVE to know what happens to Serenity and the increasing chaos in Midnight. Not going to lie, this was a tough one to read. Lot’s of heavy truth bombs and loss that throw Serenity for a loop. There are some silver linings, but I hope she starts getting the things, and Nephs, she deserves.
You can’t not read this book after reading book 1, because you HAVE to know what happens to Serenity and the increasing chaos in Midnight. Not going to lie, this was a tough one to read. Lot’s of heavy truth bombs and loss that throw Serenity for a loop. There are some silver linings, but I hope she starts getting the things, and Nephs, she deserves.
January 2, 2019
Whyy was this book so short?! It's breakin' my heart to know I only have three books left!!!
November 25, 2023
3.5 ⭐
Book #2 of 5 (complete)
☑️ Dystopian, closed society, divided in 3 areas: one were there is safety but no free will - Dawn; another were the monsters and some humans live - Midnight; and the middle one with only humans and the occasional monster - Sunset
☑️🆗 Different beings & groups: humans, demons, nephs (descendants of black wings and humans), the Sanguinata (+- vampires), the Lupin (+-werewolves), black wings, ghosts, and others
☑️🆗 Nephs have powers: empaths, sirens, Incubus, telepaths, elemental affinity,...
🆗 Hidden powers
🆗 Unknown identity/potential
🆗 Special one
☑️🆗 Police force (similar)
☑️ Supposedly RH romance: slow going, nothing major
🆗 Several potential love interests
☑️ Powerful, bad*ss, alpha males
‼️Killings, monsters, humans deaths, feeding on others (blood and energy), s*xual content, abduction, character death, abuse of power over others
***
Discovering new monsters are entering the city, one no one can leave, undetected is a growing concern.
Serenity and the Protectorate were able to solve the mystery of missing humans but not without suffering serious damage.
People were lost in the confrontation.
It was the confirmation Serenity had always known: she needed to make her sister leave the Midnight district and never come back. At any cost to her.
When Drayton was rescued along with the humans, he was drained of energy.
Seeing him with no control over his demon and feeding him while he was like that made him change his behaviour around Serenity.
They had always had an easy going relationship, with a touch of s*xual attraction and a good dose of sensual energy, but now...he avoids her.
Nevermind their problems with each other.
They have to follow up a revelation uncovered during the last investigation: Drayton and Serenity need to visit the Sanguinata.
She was supposed to just be observing, still learning the ropes, but Serenity was unable to keep her head down and her mouth shut when she saw the Sanguinata were abusing their power over the humans pledged to their house.
One of the women there begged for help and Serenity bargains with their leader for their freedom: she will compete in the House Games - a test of survival between the Sanguinata and the Lupin - for them. If she wins, the humans are free. If not,...she belongs to them.
Her temper and her lack of information did put her in a difficult spot.
The Protectorate want to change her mind, to stop her from being part of the games.
Serenity realizes the danger she put herself in, but she will not back down, she will prepare.
All the while she must work her first case.
But tragedy strikes.
Taken and faced with no choice, Serenity had to fight to survive and that was just the beginning.
The temptation to fall apart is great but she cannot fail the humans she pledge to save.
There are more forces at play that simply the monsters that roam the district.
***
Notes:
🔸Story sequence
This book starts right where the last one stopped.
A bit on the short side and the plot is quite fast and it seemed to lack a bigger emotional connection that a story like this could create.
🔸 Groups:
- Humans: used to deal with the scourge, but some, afraid and wanting security, aligned themselves to a house (Sanguinata or Lupin) signing a binding contract to belong to them.
- Black Wings: +- fallen angel, powerful, distant, only seen from afar.
- Nephs: descendants from Black Wings and humans, have powers
- Protectorate: powerful Nephs, the last line of defense against the monsters.
- Midnight Enforcement Department: the human police in Midnight
- Scourge: group of rippers that usually attack the district once a month, hunting humans
- The Sanguinata: +- vampires, aka the house of Vitae
- The Lupin: +- werewolves, aka the house of Mort
- The order of Merlin
- The Breed
🔸Romance
Still several potential love interests, each with their own story and personality.
Obviously there are some that are getting closer.
But everything is still at the beginning so she is yet to establish deep connections.
Sure there is attraction, as it is also natural to what she is.
Sometimes I did questioned if the males were not thinking Serenity was only interested in them as living batteries.
In some scenes it is like she gets the energy and runs away from them and goes spend time with another and give them attention.
🔸FMC
A complex character, not perfect, there are some small inconsistencies and overdramatic reactions but minor things overall.
She has to learn about herself, her power and weapons.
She has a new team, all with their own story and background.
She had to get used to a different society, with new rules.
Serenity is the champion of humanity, of free will, of doing what is right despite the status quo.
She is and she fights for everything they all have forgotten.
***
As always my complete respect for the author and their work.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
Book #2 of 5 (complete)
☑️ Dystopian, closed society, divided in 3 areas: one were there is safety but no free will - Dawn; another were the monsters and some humans live - Midnight; and the middle one with only humans and the occasional monster - Sunset
☑️🆗 Different beings & groups: humans, demons, nephs (descendants of black wings and humans), the Sanguinata (+- vampires), the Lupin (+-werewolves), black wings, ghosts, and others
☑️🆗 Nephs have powers: empaths, sirens, Incubus, telepaths, elemental affinity,...
🆗 Hidden powers
🆗 Unknown identity/potential
🆗 Special one
☑️🆗 Police force (similar)
☑️ Supposedly RH romance: slow going, nothing major
🆗 Several potential love interests
☑️ Powerful, bad*ss, alpha males
‼️Killings, monsters, humans deaths, feeding on others (blood and energy), s*xual content, abduction, character death, abuse of power over others
***
Discovering new monsters are entering the city, one no one can leave, undetected is a growing concern.
Serenity and the Protectorate were able to solve the mystery of missing humans but not without suffering serious damage.
People were lost in the confrontation.
It was the confirmation Serenity had always known: she needed to make her sister leave the Midnight district and never come back. At any cost to her.
When Drayton was rescued along with the humans, he was drained of energy.
Seeing him with no control over his demon and feeding him while he was like that made him change his behaviour around Serenity.
They had always had an easy going relationship, with a touch of s*xual attraction and a good dose of sensual energy, but now...he avoids her.
Nevermind their problems with each other.
They have to follow up a revelation uncovered during the last investigation: Drayton and Serenity need to visit the Sanguinata.
She was supposed to just be observing, still learning the ropes, but Serenity was unable to keep her head down and her mouth shut when she saw the Sanguinata were abusing their power over the humans pledged to their house.
One of the women there begged for help and Serenity bargains with their leader for their freedom: she will compete in the House Games - a test of survival between the Sanguinata and the Lupin - for them. If she wins, the humans are free. If not,...she belongs to them.
Her temper and her lack of information did put her in a difficult spot.
The Protectorate want to change her mind, to stop her from being part of the games.
Serenity realizes the danger she put herself in, but she will not back down, she will prepare.
All the while she must work her first case.
But tragedy strikes.
Taken and faced with no choice, Serenity had to fight to survive and that was just the beginning.
The temptation to fall apart is great but she cannot fail the humans she pledge to save.
There are more forces at play that simply the monsters that roam the district.
***
Notes:
🔸Story sequence
This book starts right where the last one stopped.
A bit on the short side and the plot is quite fast and it seemed to lack a bigger emotional connection that a story like this could create.
🔸 Groups:
- Humans: used to deal with the scourge, but some, afraid and wanting security, aligned themselves to a house (Sanguinata or Lupin) signing a binding contract to belong to them.
- Black Wings: +- fallen angel, powerful, distant, only seen from afar.
- Nephs: descendants from Black Wings and humans, have powers
- Protectorate: powerful Nephs, the last line of defense against the monsters.
- Midnight Enforcement Department: the human police in Midnight
- Scourge: group of rippers that usually attack the district once a month, hunting humans
- The Sanguinata: +- vampires, aka the house of Vitae
- The Lupin: +- werewolves, aka the house of Mort
- The order of Merlin
- The Breed
🔸Romance
Still several potential love interests, each with their own story and personality.
Obviously there are some that are getting closer.
But everything is still at the beginning so she is yet to establish deep connections.
Sure there is attraction, as it is also natural to what she is.
Sometimes I did questioned if the males were not thinking Serenity was only interested in them as living batteries.
In some scenes it is like she gets the energy and runs away from them and goes spend time with another and give them attention.
🔸FMC
A complex character, not perfect, there are some small inconsistencies and overdramatic reactions but minor things overall.
She has to learn about herself, her power and weapons.
She has a new team, all with their own story and background.
She had to get used to a different society, with new rules.
Serenity is the champion of humanity, of free will, of doing what is right despite the status quo.
She is and she fights for everything they all have forgotten.
***
As always my complete respect for the author and their work.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2024
See? Now, this is what I call a well-written book! Engaging and fun; still a little confusing and plot-hole-y in its worldbuilding, but this time around the number of typos and punctuation errors was insignificant.
Champion of Midnight picked up right where Protector of Midnight had left off, with Drayton and Serenity leaving to visit the Sanguinata and confront their leader about his minions recruiting humans to join their house when they weren't allowed to. And girlypop came in guns blazing and acting like a moron, ignoring every single warning and piece of advice Drayton had given her about how to deal with the other factions so as to not upset Midnight's tenuous balance. Thank goodness she has plot armor, because at times she severely lacks in the self-preservation department.
Much like the last book, this one too had no idle moments. The plot was constantly chugging forward and there was always a new problem or event that needed dealing with. We went from the Sanguinata, to investigating a cold case that linked to some problematic disappearances, then there was an ambush followed by a hostage situation, followed by escape, and anotherhostage situation. And then we were back to the Sanguinata and the house games, where we took a little detour into a bit of Norse Mythology with the visit of the Wild Hunt.
It's kind of wild how many legends, myths, and beliefs this series mixes up—the world continues to expand and take form. There's the religious bit, with the fight between the White and Black angels, God, and Lucifer. There's the Arthurian bit, tied to Merlin and these super powerful magic weapons. Now, Norse Mythology got sprinkled in along with the confirmation there are other dimensions where supernatural beings also reside. It's all a bit chaotic and whacky, but fun nonetheless. With how many things are always going on, it's impossible to get bored reading the Chronicles of Midnight .
However, I gotta say the "free will vs safety" plotline makes very little sense to me. 100 years is between 2 and 3 generations, so unless all the humans that entered Arcadia got their memories wiped or had new memories implanted, it's virtually impossible no one in there would have any memories of the outside world. The knowledge couldn't have been erased by the passage of time. Something like 500 years would have been more acceptable, but then the urban fantasy angle would have been the one with plot holes.
But other than that, it was a great book! More threads continued to get added than those that got resolved, the Order of Merlin is gaining importance, and there's always some new problem to deal with and mystery to uncover. I am excited to see where this series will take us next, and ready for the smut to commence LOL
April 6, 2018
This is so good. Gooder than good. I meant, great. There were many action-filled chapters, but not the filler kind of action. Tenacious and impulsive have never looked this good in a heroine. Characters like Serenity usually drain me; not necessarily against them because sometimes I'm just inherently a lazy person. But I'm wide awake and metaphorically biting my nails in anticipation throughout the whole read.
And Serenity was one dynamic character. She influences positivism and hope and warmth and brightness to those people around her. Also, she's not narrow-minded. Determined but not too prideful to acknowledge help or to learn from mistakes.
With that said, she did have the tendency to carry everyone's baggage. Good thing for her, she has the power. But even if she had it, I want to shake her sometimes for it. But I did know it came with being such a huge personality and a great character.
I'm content with the pacing, the delish medium-burn of world building. I also find the attraction between Serenity and other swoony heroes enticing. God, I will wait for them. coughsSweet torture it iscoughs.
Also, can someone kill Killian now. Please? If I never see that asshole ever again, I'll be set for life. Thanks!
Oh and one last thing, I don't accept that. I just don't. In a robot voice: Activate; In denial mode.
September 25, 2018
I can’t read fast enough
This book seemed a little shorter than the first but so much happened here! We were given more answers as to what the whole story is with this world that Serenity has found herself in. It’s a creative and unique take on the theory of creationism. The overall series storyline is still there but sprinkled in with side plots that don’t feel like filler like some books do.
Serenity has proven herself to be a strong female lead to me as a reader when she pushes through the escape from the Breeds to completing her deal with the House of Vitae so a certain death isn’t for nothing. Speaking of that certain death, that broke my heart. It seems a little unresolved so maybe I can hold out hope that he will come back with some kind of twist in the plot.
The reverse harem still hasn’t materialized yet but I can tell the author is building up the characters for the reader and establishing relationships with Serenity. This definitely isn’t an instant love series if that’s what you are hoping for. This is definitely is a SLOW burn but I can only imagine the fireworks when it finally ignites!! <3
I look forward to reading more of this series and I am starting right after I hit this “submit” button!
This book seemed a little shorter than the first but so much happened here! We were given more answers as to what the whole story is with this world that Serenity has found herself in. It’s a creative and unique take on the theory of creationism. The overall series storyline is still there but sprinkled in with side plots that don’t feel like filler like some books do.
Serenity has proven herself to be a strong female lead to me as a reader when she pushes through the escape from the Breeds to completing her deal with the House of Vitae so a certain death isn’t for nothing. Speaking of that certain death, that broke my heart. It seems a little unresolved so maybe I can hold out hope that he will come back with some kind of twist in the plot.
The reverse harem still hasn’t materialized yet but I can tell the author is building up the characters for the reader and establishing relationships with Serenity. This definitely isn’t an instant love series if that’s what you are hoping for. This is definitely is a SLOW burn but I can only imagine the fireworks when it finally ignites!! <3
I look forward to reading more of this series and I am starting right after I hit this “submit” button!
October 19, 2021
I love the slow burn that this author always delivers. What I don't love is how they also feel something has to happen all the time. As a reader, I wish the characters would have a more realistic reaction to things that happen. I'd think with what happened with Drayton that we'd have a bit more than what we received for the grieving process. We literally got a half-page to delve into it before Bane was taking her off to close the loose end of her sister. The sister arc could have waited, it wasn't something that -had- to happen right then. We could have had more to pull us into the grief the FMC was supposed to be experiencing. We also see a lot less about the need to 'feed' after the FMC does something big. It was a huge topic in book one but now it seems to not be quite as important?
Every page doesn't have to be action-packed to keep the readers engaged. My last complaint is in regards to the ending. The FMC is about to do something stupid. Everyone - Bane, Black Wings, Voice in Head- all tell her that reaching out to the cult is a bad idea, but there's the author....about to have the FMC do something stupid for the sake of prolonging the story.
Every page doesn't have to be action-packed to keep the readers engaged. My last complaint is in regards to the ending. The FMC is about to do something stupid. Everyone - Bane, Black Wings, Voice in Head- all tell her that reaching out to the cult is a bad idea, but there's the author....about to have the FMC do something stupid for the sake of prolonging the story.
February 26, 2018
This is a exhilarating continuation of a well written and captivating series by Debbie Cassidy! This books starts off pretty much where book 1 concluded and it does not disappoint. It is full of action and adventure and once again you are drawn into Serenity’s life and her trails. There are times in this book I had to yell why, times when I shed a tear in disbelief, and I am hoping that in future books things come out as untrue!!! This story has such great character development that the reader becomes invested in the story and in what happens to the characters throughout, and this is not just for the MC but also for the supporting cast. Once again Serenity is full of sass but we also get to see her overcome a number of trails that could easily break a person! Debbie does not disappoint with this series and I think this book was even better than book 1. In this book we can really visualise these relationship and become invested in them. Another extremely well written book that is highly recommended!!
June 11, 2018
3.5 stars
*SPOILER ALERT*
Book 1 introduced the characters and budding relationships with the promise of oh so more... but to me book 2 fell a little flat on that promise. A lot of scenes were rushed in my opinion and seems too easy to have happened. For example when Serenity tried to bring her darkness forward with Lilith’s help it seemed a bit anticlimactic. I expected the darkness to really make her work for it but it only took a ‘sorry, I’m so sorry’ and boom... Demon and human merged. Or the scene with where Mal convinces the Lupin of the riders. Mal shows them what happened from his memories and wham they agree to team up... for two races to be in complete opposition I expected a lot more convincing.
But I’m still holding out for the big wow... I still like the story development and writing albeit a few personal disagreements on some parts and Why Oh Why did Dray have to go? Maybe that’s where I’m a little bitter... but maybe he’ll come back from the dead? Who knows. Thank god Bane is still there to keep those a steamy scenes well steamy.
*SPOILER ALERT*
Book 1 introduced the characters and budding relationships with the promise of oh so more... but to me book 2 fell a little flat on that promise. A lot of scenes were rushed in my opinion and seems too easy to have happened. For example when Serenity tried to bring her darkness forward with Lilith’s help it seemed a bit anticlimactic. I expected the darkness to really make her work for it but it only took a ‘sorry, I’m so sorry’ and boom... Demon and human merged. Or the scene with where Mal convinces the Lupin of the riders. Mal shows them what happened from his memories and wham they agree to team up... for two races to be in complete opposition I expected a lot more convincing.
But I’m still holding out for the big wow... I still like the story development and writing albeit a few personal disagreements on some parts and Why Oh Why did Dray have to go? Maybe that’s where I’m a little bitter... but maybe he’ll come back from the dead? Who knows. Thank god Bane is still there to keep those a steamy scenes well steamy.
October 31, 2023
So, definitely a quick read.
A certain death feels...unfinished. Like something is coming and we readers aren't prepared for it. I could be dead wrong, but my little reader lover heart is hopeful!
It wasn't anything special. I wish there was a bit more emphasis in getting closer to the men in the house. I know this is an uber slow-burn RH, but come on, I still can't picture anyone but Cassie and Bane.
Speaking of Cassie. She's making some bad decisions, but maybe it'll be a boon to Orin. We'll see.
Serenity's power-up and "assimilation" with her demon was quick. Another symptom of special snowflake syndrome. Sigh. At least her attitude has marginally improved. The writing and editing has improved, too! No using the word "hugest" in this one, thank fuck.
This is a decent series. Hopefully, it gets more exciting. There are 2 spin-off series after this one, so if this one stays simmering, maybe they'll be full of surprises. Time will tell.
Happy reading, Goodreads fiends.
A certain death feels...unfinished. Like something is coming and we readers aren't prepared for it. I could be dead wrong, but my little reader lover heart is hopeful!
It wasn't anything special. I wish there was a bit more emphasis in getting closer to the men in the house. I know this is an uber slow-burn RH, but come on, I still can't picture anyone but Cassie and Bane.
Speaking of Cassie. She's making some bad decisions, but maybe it'll be a boon to Orin. We'll see.
Serenity's power-up and "assimilation" with her demon was quick. Another symptom of special snowflake syndrome. Sigh. At least her attitude has marginally improved. The writing and editing has improved, too! No using the word "hugest" in this one, thank fuck.
This is a decent series. Hopefully, it gets more exciting. There are 2 spin-off series after this one, so if this one stays simmering, maybe they'll be full of surprises. Time will tell.
Happy reading, Goodreads fiends.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews