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Daizlei Academy #2
Scion of Midnight
My name is Selena Foster, and I am the first of my kind in a millennium.
I thought that made me invincible. Untouchable. All it really makes me is a target…and a weapon.
The Supernatural Council is going to war, and they've decided what better spear than the girl that can slay demons?
So they blackmail me, and I become the property of the Council.
They think they own me, but you can’t own what you can’t control.
I thought the first year at Daizlei was hard...but the second might kill me.
Either way, I'm not going down without a fight.
I thought that made me invincible. Untouchable. All it really makes me is a target…and a weapon.
The Supernatural Council is going to war, and they've decided what better spear than the girl that can slay demons?
So they blackmail me, and I become the property of the Council.
They think they own me, but you can’t own what you can’t control.
I thought the first year at Daizlei was hard...but the second might kill me.
Either way, I'm not going down without a fight.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2017
711 people are currently reading
1047 people want to read
About the author
Kel Carpenter
70 books2,186 followersKel Carpenter is a master of werdz. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s traveling the world, lovingly pestering her co-author, and spending time with her family. She is always on the search for good tacos and the best pizza. She resides in Maryland and desperately tries to avoid the traffic.
For subrights or media and film inquiries, please reach out to kel@kelcarpenter.com.
For subrights or media and film inquiries, please reach out to kel@kelcarpenter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
April 24, 2018
Thank you Sharon J for recommending this book series to me. This was an amazing read. After I read the first one, I started the second book. I am really glad that my best friend Sharon J gave me both books, so that I was able to read them both. I loved the second book. There was always something happening within the story, but it was the last 25% of the book was where I thought this book went from great to incredible. The last 25% of the book was very intense. I also the shift between love interests was kind of intriguing as well. I really love Selena. She is my favourite character of the series. I really liked Lucas, but I wonder why there was a shift between the love interests for Selena. Also, the ending was a total mind-blown ending. I was like what the heck is this? and screaming that I need book 3. I cannot wait to read book 3, and I want to see what happens next. Overall, an incredible read.
December 24, 2022
Dnf 60%
I can't keep reading this book when the MFC is so unlikeable. In the 60% I managed to read, there has been no character growth and no plot progression. If anything Selena has gotten even bitchier. She is so abrasive and rude to all her so-called friends, it's become unbelievable. At this point I'm not sure why I adventured into another kel carpenter read ... All the ones I've read, the MFC's are horrible.
✌️ out.
I can't keep reading this book when the MFC is so unlikeable. In the 60% I managed to read, there has been no character growth and no plot progression. If anything Selena has gotten even bitchier. She is so abrasive and rude to all her so-called friends, it's become unbelievable. At this point I'm not sure why I adventured into another kel carpenter read ... All the ones I've read, the MFC's are horrible.
✌️ out.
June 30, 2017
Title: Scion Of Midnight
Author: Kel Carpenter
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal
Format: Ebook - ARC
Pages: 308
Rating: 5
Heat: 2
Thoughts: Wow, just… wow!!! Talk about a roller-coaster ride. Right from the start this book is non-stop excitement, there’s always something happening, something to fight or some conflict, internal or external, that make the words just fly off the page. It felt so real as the movie played in my head. And the last like 20% was so intense, so many things coming to light along with some massive fighting. This series should be on everyone’s TBR list and definitely jump to the top. Book one was great but this one blew it out of the water. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. Oh the torture of waiting!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and chose to write a review.
Author: Kel Carpenter
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal
Format: Ebook - ARC
Pages: 308
Rating: 5
Heat: 2
Thoughts: Wow, just… wow!!! Talk about a roller-coaster ride. Right from the start this book is non-stop excitement, there’s always something happening, something to fight or some conflict, internal or external, that make the words just fly off the page. It felt so real as the movie played in my head. And the last like 20% was so intense, so many things coming to light along with some massive fighting. This series should be on everyone’s TBR list and definitely jump to the top. Book one was great but this one blew it out of the water. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. Oh the torture of waiting!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and chose to write a review.
January 25, 2022
I don't think this will be a popular opinion here - but I really didn't like this book. It wasn't so much the story as it was my hatred for the main character. I don't get her anger - at all. I don't get why she is angry with Aaron. She has a stupid short fuse for anyone and everyone - and she flips out over the smallest things. She is not strong and not a character I can enjoy reading about. I don't understand how anyone stuck with her and trust in her enough to be on her team. She gave no reason to follow her other than her powers are strong. She keeps denying help from her sisters and Aaron and basically everyone else - she keeps denying the bond with Aaron even though it will help her. I don't think that makes her independent or strong willed, it makes her stupid that she can't accept the help she needs.
Lucas is a butthole. But she has been so angry with him from the beginning. She is angry and rude to all of them - when they try to help her. And she lies about everything even before she made the deal with Anastasia - she can't tell anyone anything and it's quite annoying this characters "I don't need anyone I can do it myself" style. So it was no surprise when he betrayed her. Obviously he is not completely aware of what's going on, but either way, it's no surprise.
In the first book, it wasn't this bad. It was enough to where you liked her, and you expected her to grow and develop. However, that is not the case. The only strength she has is from her power - but that's not what makes a character. Her character is actually weak, immature, and inconsiderate.
The person she became at the end - her powers changed again - by getting stronger. But she is emotionless. Will she ever come back to her self now that Violet and her are one? Will her character actually develop? Will she grow up and stop being immature? I will think about finishing the series, but as of right now - I am not liking the character growth and development at all, so I'm going to set it aside for now.
Lucas is a butthole. But she has been so angry with him from the beginning. She is angry and rude to all of them - when they try to help her. And she lies about everything even before she made the deal with Anastasia - she can't tell anyone anything and it's quite annoying this characters "I don't need anyone I can do it myself" style. So it was no surprise when he betrayed her. Obviously he is not completely aware of what's going on, but either way, it's no surprise.
In the first book, it wasn't this bad. It was enough to where you liked her, and you expected her to grow and develop. However, that is not the case. The only strength she has is from her power - but that's not what makes a character. Her character is actually weak, immature, and inconsiderate.
The person she became at the end - her powers changed again - by getting stronger. But she is emotionless. Will she ever come back to her self now that Violet and her are one? Will her character actually develop? Will she grow up and stop being immature? I will think about finishing the series, but as of right now - I am not liking the character growth and development at all, so I'm going to set it aside for now.
August 24, 2022
This book is like a train wreck. You now it's horrible, you know it will get worse, yet you can't not look(read). It's a well of contradictions and it gives off a strong sense that author is not keeping track of what she wants her reader to think. Main characters in and on themselves are not understandable at all. Like, Selena is sooo strong, her power near limitless, yet she runs empty constantly after using a fraction of it, she is arrogant yet insecure, unfeeling yet overflowing with feelings, loyal yet a betrayer, wants to stand alone yet drags everyone in, and so on and so forth. It's like author either can't make up her mind or changes the narrative to force it to fit current situation. And ,oh god, is that noticeable.
I am bummed at the whole romance aspect in this book too. Last book built up this slow burning romance (not well executed, but still) just to back pedal on it here. Insert a lot of confusing explanations of why and how, throw in a 180° personality switch to give reasoning and voila, conflict created. With a lot of cringing for a reader.
The inner musings.... Every time an info drop is needed, because author don't know how to show someones feelings, inner musings and inner dialogues happen. Sometimes they happen just to make a character "more complex ". Damn, are they annoying . And unnecessary. Page filler where author could have done more to develop the story.
Overall, I am extremely unimpressed and somewhat hate this book. But, because I obviously have some masochist tendences, I am curious enough to proceed to the next installment in these series.
I am bummed at the whole romance aspect in this book too. Last book built up this slow burning romance (not well executed, but still) just to back pedal on it here. Insert a lot of confusing explanations of why and how, throw in a 180° personality switch to give reasoning and voila, conflict created. With a lot of cringing for a reader.
The inner musings.... Every time an info drop is needed, because author don't know how to show someones feelings, inner musings and inner dialogues happen. Sometimes they happen just to make a character "more complex ". Damn, are they annoying . And unnecessary. Page filler where author could have done more to develop the story.
Overall, I am extremely unimpressed and somewhat hate this book. But, because I obviously have some masochist tendences, I am curious enough to proceed to the next installment in these series.
July 5, 2017
Amazing Series, But Don't Know If I Can Continue
I love those series,it is unique in a way that I can appreciate but holy hellos this a bummer.
There is almost no light , no break,no breakthrough , no reprieve for Selena.
She's evolving but she is just stumbling through harder and harder decision with very little or no pay off.
I don't know if I can continue to read her dark journey . A journey that doesn't give her an ounce of humor or relief. Just all consuming loathing and stubbornness , despite being a bad a$$.
I've read everything from Shannon Mayer or Gene Showalter to Jasmine Walt, Persuasion, Trickery , Mageri Series. I'm know novice to gritty paranormal but dang. This is a tough one.
I love those series,it is unique in a way that I can appreciate but holy hellos this a bummer.
There is almost no light , no break,no breakthrough , no reprieve for Selena.
She's evolving but she is just stumbling through harder and harder decision with very little or no pay off.
I don't know if I can continue to read her dark journey . A journey that doesn't give her an ounce of humor or relief. Just all consuming loathing and stubbornness , despite being a bad a$$.
I've read everything from Shannon Mayer or Gene Showalter to Jasmine Walt, Persuasion, Trickery , Mageri Series. I'm know novice to gritty paranormal but dang. This is a tough one.
September 9, 2017
If I had known that this book would take a dark turn at the end, I might not have started this series. By dark turn, I refer to what happens in the Black Wings and Throne of Glass Series---a fragile character goes dark due to the loss of someone they love. Except in those two series (and Kurtherian Gambit), the main character had to struggle through the pain of the loss.
In this case, what the author did... let's just say it's a step worse than total mental shut-down. I am personally a bit burned out on revenge-kicks--and that's what I expect is coming. Maybe we'll get our MC back later. Maybe not. I don't know that I'll be around to find out.
Simply put, I'm mad and a bit hurt. This series is well written and I was seriously enjoying it. The MC's struggles with her own limitations (mental fragility, struggle with depression, etc.) in book 2 added an interesting twist. If it weren't written so well, I probably wouldn't have as strong of a reaction. But I don't like getting mad & hurt. So I'm done with this series. At least until I feel like reading something DARK.
In this case, what the author did... let's just say it's a step worse than total mental shut-down. I am personally a bit burned out on revenge-kicks--and that's what I expect is coming. Maybe we'll get our MC back later. Maybe not. I don't know that I'll be around to find out.
Simply put, I'm mad and a bit hurt. This series is well written and I was seriously enjoying it. The MC's struggles with her own limitations (mental fragility, struggle with depression, etc.) in book 2 added an interesting twist. If it weren't written so well, I probably wouldn't have as strong of a reaction. But I don't like getting mad & hurt. So I'm done with this series. At least until I feel like reading something DARK.
August 1, 2023
Line: “I am no longer prey. I am the beast and I roar”… I started audibly laughing screaming
June 30, 2017
I liked trial by heist but Selena will always be my favorite character of all time. Her powers, her personality, everything about her is amazing. She's is so powerful and yet works so hard to control herself. She knows she has the kill gene and works hard to control it. The council is shifty and in my opinion just plain evil....I may be biased because I find them far to self serving. This one has some depressing things going down. I will not lie I needed a tissue packet or two with me during some parts. Al the epicness with the council, the family, death, Lucas. This was an emotional roller coaster with lots of epic stuff going down. Its hard to go on about how amazing it is without giving anything away since everything factors into everything that happens later! Lets me just say this will leave you going OMG I HAVE TO READ THE NEXT ONE NOW!!!!
July 27, 2017
So after reading the first book I was definitely keeping an eye out for the release of this one. Once I finally saw it was released I got excited. Let me just say that Kel Carpenter is definitely a writer to watch! She is great and not only establishing a unique plot, but she's able to describe and weave all these other elements in as well.
Don't ask me why but when main characters have siblings I think the story is just better. I love the dynamic she creates between not only the family but the (as of now) minor characters. I will admit keeping track of the names at times got confusing, but for the most part I was able to kept who was who straight. I'm definitely going to be stalking her website waiting for an update about her next book! In the meantime I'm probably going to go read the novella she did since somehow I missed that.
WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE TO READ!
Don't ask me why but when main characters have siblings I think the story is just better. I love the dynamic she creates between not only the family but the (as of now) minor characters. I will admit keeping track of the names at times got confusing, but for the most part I was able to kept who was who straight. I'm definitely going to be stalking her website waiting for an update about her next book! In the meantime I'm probably going to go read the novella she did since somehow I missed that.
WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE TO READ!
September 3, 2024
Un second tome qui monte en intensité. L'intrigue se complexifie et la romance n'était pas celle que je croyais. On est sur un bon slow burn d'ailleurs, mais ce n'est pas le plus important. Non, ici, Selena va devoir se battre contre de puissants ennemis, mais également contre elle-même. J'adore ce personnage qui est atypique et très bien construit. J'ai également apprécié les relations complexes qu'elle entretient avec ses sœurs et découvrir au fur et à mesure des secrets bien enfouis. Rebondissements, révélations et trahisons, toutes ces choses ne m'ont pas fait lâcher ce deuxième tome !
July 21, 2022
Monsters and madness
Nothing is what it seems snd betrayals are everywhere. The repercussions are endless and so many things are happening in this latest instalment, there is no time to be bored and I can't wait for the next one in the series
Nothing is what it seems snd betrayals are everywhere. The repercussions are endless and so many things are happening in this latest instalment, there is no time to be bored and I can't wait for the next one in the series
January 7, 2021
Give me MORE!!
Wow! Everything just escalated and I’m totally here for it! Selena is trying to protect her sisters and her friends while everything seems to be crumbling down around her. This one was jam packed with more action and that ending!! WOW!! Need book 3 in audio ASAP because it won’t be the same physically reading it.. though I don’t think I can wait!
Wow! Everything just escalated and I’m totally here for it! Selena is trying to protect her sisters and her friends while everything seems to be crumbling down around her. This one was jam packed with more action and that ending!! WOW!! Need book 3 in audio ASAP because it won’t be the same physically reading it.. though I don’t think I can wait!
November 1, 2017
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ok just had to get that out . lol I was shocked but not so much I had a feeling that it was gonna happen but I didn't want it to happen not to that sister why her she was the glue but then again I guess it had to happen to the glue to make the story unfold. I hope the next book grabs me and doesn't let me go till the end and that Selena can find her way home she is too go to be lost forever. Hurry up book 3..oops I forgot to mention that I am totally loving this series hahaha it is a great read and yes I would recommend it to my friends and I have and will to those that read this kind of books yes I mean good books hahaha . I do believe you have to read them in order to understand what is going on at-least I did.
Secrets. Everyone has them, and mine bind me so tightly they suffocate, but despite all I’ve done to stay hidden—someone knows.
They are hunting me. Haunting me. If they’re not careful though, that someone is about to end up dead, because some secrets are better left buried. Six-feet under.
My name is Selena Foster, and I am the first telekinetic in a millennium. I thought that made me invincible. Untouchable. All it really makes me is a target…or a weapon.
The Supernatural Council is going to war, and what better spear than the girl that can slay demons?
So they blackmail me, and I am property of the Council.
They think they own me, but you can’t own what you can’t control.
Books in the Daizlei Academy Series:
Heir of Shadows (Book 1)
Trial by Heist (Book 1.5)
Scion of Midnight (Book 2)
Secrets. Everyone has them, and mine bind me so tightly they suffocate, but despite all I’ve done to stay hidden—someone knows.
They are hunting me. Haunting me. If they’re not careful though, that someone is about to end up dead, because some secrets are better left buried. Six-feet under.
My name is Selena Foster, and I am the first telekinetic in a millennium. I thought that made me invincible. Untouchable. All it really makes me is a target…or a weapon.
The Supernatural Council is going to war, and what better spear than the girl that can slay demons?
So they blackmail me, and I am property of the Council.
They think they own me, but you can’t own what you can’t control.
Books in the Daizlei Academy Series:
Heir of Shadows (Book 1)
Trial by Heist (Book 1.5)
Scion of Midnight (Book 2)
August 20, 2021
Oh My Goshhhh
Wow!!!! Just finished this book and you have NO idea or clue about all that goes down in this book- literally so much! I freaking love this serious, If you’re a fan of paranormal reads you need this series in your life right now!!!
Wow!!!! Just finished this book and you have NO idea or clue about all that goes down in this book- literally so much! I freaking love this serious, If you’re a fan of paranormal reads you need this series in your life right now!!!
December 19, 2017
I'm so here for this badassery.
October 20, 2024
This was a sharp decline from the first book. The first book had interesting characters and world, this one flattened the characters (some of them doing complete 180s on their personalities) and also had no concept of time. Like all of this happens in a month, except nothing happens except training, except no training happens because there's so many she-passed-out time skips.
I will admit that the ending was interesting and I'm surprised the author went there.
The first book worked because it was about a teenage girl with insanely strong powers trying to find her way through school. This one did not work because it tried to ramp up the scale into more of a world-saving plot, except that they never get to any of the world saving stuff - they are stuck in their training-montage era the entire book and that the boy drama has taken on new meaning of the word 'melodrama'. It's like whiplash.
Now, let's talk about Lucas and Aaron. (spoilers to follow)
In the first book, Lucas was kind and patient and willing to help. He liked Selena more than a friend, but was willing to stay just friends because he didn't want to push her into something she didn't want or wasn't ready for. In this book he is a whiny, needy, clingy, jealous asshole.
In the first book, Aaron was barely relevant. He was weaker than Selena and Lucas and he was a little bit petty and angry but he barely showed up in the story. In this book he is patient and caring and just as strong a Selena somehow. Oh and he is .
I think I get what the author was trying to do. She wanted a Court of Mist and Fury moment. But the problem is that SJM put in the work and left red flags all over the pages of ACOTAR for ACOMAF to make sense; and it works because Tamlin is written just as any fantasy love interest usually is, and people usually just ignore the red flags because its just a book and we want the romance, so when SJM turned it on its head everyone was surprised but not blindsided. Kel Carpenter, on the other hand, put in none of the work. In fact I would bet that she read ACOTAR/ACOMAF after writing the first Daizlei Academy book, and so just decided that Lucas would be her Tamlin, and to make it work she had to completely destroy his character. It kind of infuriated me.
So yeah, no I won't be continuing with this series.
I will admit that the ending was interesting and I'm surprised the author went there.
The first book worked because it was about a teenage girl with insanely strong powers trying to find her way through school. This one did not work because it tried to ramp up the scale into more of a world-saving plot, except that they never get to any of the world saving stuff - they are stuck in their training-montage era the entire book and that the boy drama has taken on new meaning of the word 'melodrama'. It's like whiplash.
Now, let's talk about Lucas and Aaron. (spoilers to follow)
In the first book, Lucas was kind and patient and willing to help. He liked Selena more than a friend, but was willing to stay just friends because he didn't want to push her into something she didn't want or wasn't ready for. In this book he is a whiny, needy, clingy, jealous asshole.
In the first book, Aaron was barely relevant. He was weaker than Selena and Lucas and he was a little bit petty and angry but he barely showed up in the story. In this book he is patient and caring and just as strong a Selena somehow. Oh and he is .
I think I get what the author was trying to do. She wanted a Court of Mist and Fury moment. But the problem is that SJM put in the work and left red flags all over the pages of ACOTAR for ACOMAF to make sense; and it works because Tamlin is written just as any fantasy love interest usually is, and people usually just ignore the red flags because its just a book and we want the romance, so when SJM turned it on its head everyone was surprised but not blindsided. Kel Carpenter, on the other hand, put in none of the work. In fact I would bet that she read ACOTAR/ACOMAF after writing the first Daizlei Academy book, and so just decided that Lucas would be her Tamlin, and to make it work she had to completely destroy his character. It kind of infuriated me.
So yeah, no I won't be continuing with this series.
December 29, 2020
Wooooow, this story took some twists I wasnt expecting! My brain definitely was rooting for someone that ended up being a bad person sooo that was unexpected haha. I still an unsure what to make of Selena. I am still not 100% invested in her but the other characters and plot really keep the story going. I think in this sequel there was more internalization and interaction between Selena and her inner demon/being which I think for me took me out of the story sometimes. I think the relationship with the sisters really elevated it for me (as well as the others on the team, especially the new crew). I thought the plot was fantastic and I kept holding my breath, especially at the end. I am dying to know what happens next and am intrigued to see how things develop with Selena and the others after what she had to do. Another thing that I think kept me from giving it a 5 stars is I keep thinking she is older than she is, but she is just a teen. Some of the actions/development didnt exactly jive with that, but some of Selena’s decisions/behavior make more sense if you keep remember she and the others are just kids, not even young adults yet.
For the narration, Stacey did a great job, I thought improved since Book 1. I gave her a 4.5 stars but rounded up to 5 because I could hear the differences. She did a great job with the heartache and the tension between Selena and the 2 guys really well. The diabolical characters and actions were presented very well, definitely brought me into the world and allowed my imagination to see things happening as I listened.
Will be continuing to listen, can’t wait to get my hands on book 3! I need to know how Selena moves on from what transpired at the end and how the team will be able to help her handle the changes in her life (without her killing them or vice versa haha).
For the narration, Stacey did a great job, I thought improved since Book 1. I gave her a 4.5 stars but rounded up to 5 because I could hear the differences. She did a great job with the heartache and the tension between Selena and the 2 guys really well. The diabolical characters and actions were presented very well, definitely brought me into the world and allowed my imagination to see things happening as I listened.
Will be continuing to listen, can’t wait to get my hands on book 3! I need to know how Selena moves on from what transpired at the end and how the team will be able to help her handle the changes in her life (without her killing them or vice versa haha).
December 26, 2020
The story continues on from the first book, so must be read in order. The pace was a little slow to start with, but the second half really packed a punch as the momentum and story built. Secrets, lies, betrayal, action, drama, unexpected allies and enemies align as we learnt the true extent of Selena's supernatural powers and I have to say they were pretty cool!
Tbh I still struggled to like Selena throughout, although I definitely understand her a lot more and she is growing on me chapter by chapter. She's very young (16) with attitude so it makes it harder for me personally to empathise, but I think maybe it's because there is no reprieve for her, almost no light in her darkness and there's been no time to see her relax. Part of that is circumstance, but part her own fault as she is too stubborn to really let anyone in, even the one person she should trust and learn to understand, who came as a big but very intriguing surprise. She is evolving and I wonder if she will be more of a bad-ass anti-style heroine as after that ending, I think there is a lot more death and destruction to come.
I listened to the audio version. Told all from Selena's pov, the narrator is very good. Her voice depicts Selena's personality and attitude perfectly.
I'm really enjoying the overall story, but I do want to like Selena more. So far there hasn't been any romance, a big twist in the plot changed that direction, but I'd love to see some in the next installment. There is potential so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I absolutely loved the dark turn towards the end, definitely my cup of tea, so looking forward to what comes next. I wouldn't want to be in Anastasia's shoes, lol!
Tbh I still struggled to like Selena throughout, although I definitely understand her a lot more and she is growing on me chapter by chapter. She's very young (16) with attitude so it makes it harder for me personally to empathise, but I think maybe it's because there is no reprieve for her, almost no light in her darkness and there's been no time to see her relax. Part of that is circumstance, but part her own fault as she is too stubborn to really let anyone in, even the one person she should trust and learn to understand, who came as a big but very intriguing surprise. She is evolving and I wonder if she will be more of a bad-ass anti-style heroine as after that ending, I think there is a lot more death and destruction to come.
I listened to the audio version. Told all from Selena's pov, the narrator is very good. Her voice depicts Selena's personality and attitude perfectly.
I'm really enjoying the overall story, but I do want to like Selena more. So far there hasn't been any romance, a big twist in the plot changed that direction, but I'd love to see some in the next installment. There is potential so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I absolutely loved the dark turn towards the end, definitely my cup of tea, so looking forward to what comes next. I wouldn't want to be in Anastasia's shoes, lol!
February 5, 2021
After I finished the first book, I thought I had an idea of the course the next book would take. Boy, was I wrong! There is a lot of action and so many new developments. There weren't a whole lot of answers given, and even more new questions posed. I do wish a bit more had been revealed, instead so many of new characters and mysteries being introduced, but it was still a great read. The middle dragged a little bit while Selena was in her self-pity cycle, but when she pulled out of it I was so happy that her character finally got her stuff together. Some of the major plot points throughout really reminded me of ACOTAR (especially the romantic relationship dynamics), which I didn't expect at all but found enjoyable. The ending was WILD and so much happened that my heart was racing. I cannot WAIT to continue the series. I was still on the fence after the first book and was afraid this would be a little too YA/academy for my tastes, but this book got me solidly on board.
The audio performance was, again, fantastic. I don't know if I would have gotten as engaged in the story if I were just reading the words. The haunting lullaby being actually sung was my favorite part and was so much more powerful than if I had only seen the words on a page.
The audio performance was, again, fantastic. I don't know if I would have gotten as engaged in the story if I were just reading the words. The haunting lullaby being actually sung was my favorite part and was so much more powerful than if I had only seen the words on a page.
June 5, 2023
Let me start by saying that this was a good read, but I truly don't feel as if this should have been a 4-books series. There are things I liked and disliked about this story. I'm still enjoying the characters from the first book and there were more characters added to this story that I also found interesting. I wanted things to work out with Selena and Lucas, but I truly don't mind how things are playing out with Selena and her signasti. I'm looking forward to more of Selena with him but I'm already getting tired of Selena always putting of things with him that needs to be discussed. Nothing Anastasia did was really surprising, but the twist thrown in there with Lucas was definitely unexpected. I never would have guessed that him being rejected would have made him turn his back on his friends. There were laugh out moments, twists and turns, betrayal and more. The story had a cliffhanger ending that makes me want to read the next book just to know how things turn out. I truly wish this series wasn't 4 books because maybe the pace of the story would have been better and they story wouldn't seem to drag as much. I will give the next book a read just because I want to read the damage Selena will cause to everyone that did her wrong.
December 4, 2022
Once again, Kel has ripped the heart from me and left it shattered into splinters.
I dont know what I can say about this book without spoiling it.
Selenas' growth in this was amazing to see. For the most part, she began to trust, feel, and begin her journey of becoming a strong and confident leader to those who look up to her. The new characters that were introduced are still a big mystery for the most part, but I did enjoy the interactions that we had with them! The sisters grew a lot in this book, and it was a welcome sight to see that everyone was adjusting to their new lives.
Kel has a way with words and characters. I just can't describe it. She's incredible when it comes to making you root for certain characters and loathing others.
The plot was so well thought out, from the start tying in nicely with the ending. While we don't know the motivations of the big bad as of the end of this book, I can only hope we get more answers and the justice that is deserved.
The ending was shocking, and I couldn't believe what she had done with certain characters. I can't wait to dive into book three!
I dont know what I can say about this book without spoiling it.
Selenas' growth in this was amazing to see. For the most part, she began to trust, feel, and begin her journey of becoming a strong and confident leader to those who look up to her. The new characters that were introduced are still a big mystery for the most part, but I did enjoy the interactions that we had with them! The sisters grew a lot in this book, and it was a welcome sight to see that everyone was adjusting to their new lives.
Kel has a way with words and characters. I just can't describe it. She's incredible when it comes to making you root for certain characters and loathing others.
The plot was so well thought out, from the start tying in nicely with the ending. While we don't know the motivations of the big bad as of the end of this book, I can only hope we get more answers and the justice that is deserved.
The ending was shocking, and I couldn't believe what she had done with certain characters. I can't wait to dive into book three!
March 31, 2018
Vamps are attack supes in their homes and the Council is upset. Selena is assigned the task of developing a team that can basically stage a pre-emptive attack against the vamps. This involves putting together a somewhat motley crew that have different abilities and personalities including her sister, Lily.
The task is assigned them by a total bitch form the all-powerful Council (I hate Councils. They are always bad, no matter the story they're in. Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely.)
The training would make Marine training look like a holiday on the beach. There's a major question of whether or not they will even survive the training much less take on the vamps.
Things take a horrible turn for Selena (who has a monster inside herself that she tries to avoid letting loose.) If all that wasn't bad enough there's a crazy traitor that could lead to the entire team being wiped out. A very active book.
The task is assigned them by a total bitch form the all-powerful Council (I hate Councils. They are always bad, no matter the story they're in. Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely.)
The training would make Marine training look like a holiday on the beach. There's a major question of whether or not they will even survive the training much less take on the vamps.
Things take a horrible turn for Selena (who has a monster inside herself that she tries to avoid letting loose.) If all that wasn't bad enough there's a crazy traitor that could lead to the entire team being wiped out. A very active book.
June 17, 2018
Note: If you haven't read the novella before reading this book, it'd make so much more sense than just skipping straight to book 2. While reading this book, in my opinion, it's much more action packed than book 1. I should stop talking about the novella and book 1 when this is a review for 2, uh?
Back to the topic at hand, I like this book; it felt like the story really picks up such as more drama between every character and heated moments. I'm not going into specifics about what happens in Scion of Midnight because you have to read the book, but I'll say this though personally, I had this like/don't like relationship with Lucas; however, I did like Aaron and was a bit disappointed not to read more about him in the previous book, but Ms. Carpenter remedied that by making Lucas the "bad guy" and Aaron still the arrogant guy but mysterious yet nice. I am really looking forward to reading book 3.
Back to the topic at hand, I like this book; it felt like the story really picks up such as more drama between every character and heated moments. I'm not going into specifics about what happens in Scion of Midnight because you have to read the book, but I'll say this though personally, I had this like/don't like relationship with Lucas; however, I did like Aaron and was a bit disappointed not to read more about him in the previous book, but Ms. Carpenter remedied that by making Lucas the "bad guy" and Aaron still the arrogant guy but mysterious yet nice. I am really looking forward to reading book 3.
February 16, 2023
YA classic catch with twist
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 12, 2023
Has the magic school in the normal world been overdone? Nahhh.
I will admit that I didn't like this as much as some of Kel Carpenter's other books, but then again the Urban fantasy, supernatural magic academy isn't really my thing anymore. Maybe that means I've evolved from YA, although I can admit this book doesn't feel like YA but apparently it is.
This book was good. It hits all the points with a strong bad @ss FMC right out the gate and everyone knows she is one. I didn't connect to Salena that much but I liked that she has practically raised her sisters and they are the source of her fighting spirit.
I would place this upper YA with a slow burn romance and an academy, martial arts, magic power setting.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 12, 2023
Has the magic school in the normal world been overdone? Nahhh.
I will admit that I didn't like this as much as some of Kel Carpenter's other books, but then again the Urban fantasy, supernatural magic academy isn't really my thing anymore. Maybe that means I've evolved from YA, although I can admit this book doesn't feel like YA but apparently it is.
This book was good. It hits all the points with a strong bad @ss FMC right out the gate and everyone knows she is one. I didn't connect to Salena that much but I liked that she has practically raised her sisters and they are the source of her fighting spirit.
I would place this upper YA with a slow burn romance and an academy, martial arts, magic power setting.
April 11, 2023
2.5 stars
There are a lot of intense action-filled scenes with some casualties thrown into the mix. I loved it to start but then it really started to wane and become boring. There are lots of characters involved and all have different personalities which was nice to see as none of them is copies of the other.
Maybe I'm past the dark academia stage because I lost patience with the FMC very quickly. Everything revolved around her and she was always taking the lead, all the guys fancied her and she had all this power. Normally I would thrive on this but her personality grated on my nerves. Then when the ending came I expected her to be a lot stronger but it seems she's on the road to a full shut down which will lead to a revenge mission. She has a massive chip on her shoulder that she needs to get rid of and it doesn't help that she's inconsistent.
There are a lot of intense action-filled scenes with some casualties thrown into the mix. I loved it to start but then it really started to wane and become boring. There are lots of characters involved and all have different personalities which was nice to see as none of them is copies of the other.
Maybe I'm past the dark academia stage because I lost patience with the FMC very quickly. Everything revolved around her and she was always taking the lead, all the guys fancied her and she had all this power. Normally I would thrive on this but her personality grated on my nerves. Then when the ending came I expected her to be a lot stronger but it seems she's on the road to a full shut down which will lead to a revenge mission. She has a massive chip on her shoulder that she needs to get rid of and it doesn't help that she's inconsistent.
June 30, 2017
This is an incredibly powerful and intense book full of thrills and action but also one that puts the reader through an emotional wringer. Selena is one of my favorite characters and it's incredible all the things that Kel Carpenter puts her through and makes her somehow deal with. Yet somehow the author pulls it all off in a great plot that's wonderfully written.
Highly recommended with two caveats. The first is that you really (really) should read book 1 before turning to this book 2 as it will absolutely enhance your enjoyment of this book. The second is that Scion of Midnight is a highly addictive substance. You will no doubt find yourself truly needing book 3 to be written and published, like tomorrow, once you've finished.
Highly recommended with two caveats. The first is that you really (really) should read book 1 before turning to this book 2 as it will absolutely enhance your enjoyment of this book. The second is that Scion of Midnight is a highly addictive substance. You will no doubt find yourself truly needing book 3 to be written and published, like tomorrow, once you've finished.
July 3, 2017
A thrilling and spine-chilling read!
An upcoming war...
Blackmail...
Darkness....
Will Selena be able to fight the darkness and navigate the Supernatural waters?
Before her ignorance causes trouble for all...
That opening chapter - a fantastic start! So bloodthirsty for more - this world and the characters are so complex, interesting and dark.
A terrific sequel to Heir of Shadows. Such an exhilarating and spine-chilling book! Could not get enough of Selena and friends.
Bloody hell - this book was so full of emotion, action and deceit. Such a promising dark read.
Full of powers, darkness, blackmail, secrets, lies, destruction, Supernaturals, pain, trust, betrayal, surprises and loyalty.
Perfect for readers of paranormal and horror.
An upcoming war...
Blackmail...
Darkness....
Will Selena be able to fight the darkness and navigate the Supernatural waters?
Before her ignorance causes trouble for all...
That opening chapter - a fantastic start! So bloodthirsty for more - this world and the characters are so complex, interesting and dark.
A terrific sequel to Heir of Shadows. Such an exhilarating and spine-chilling book! Could not get enough of Selena and friends.
Bloody hell - this book was so full of emotion, action and deceit. Such a promising dark read.
Full of powers, darkness, blackmail, secrets, lies, destruction, Supernaturals, pain, trust, betrayal, surprises and loyalty.
Perfect for readers of paranormal and horror.
December 24, 2020
What happens when you free the monster you kept caged? Rage, clarity and the strength to uncover buried secrets.
Honestly as a book 2, this was hard for me to get into at first. There was so much hurt and anger as Selena battled with everything that she learned at the end of Heir of Shadows.
Once you get about 1/2 way through and the secrets start revealing more if the back story to Selena’s life, her rage seems to find a purpose and she focuses.
I would give the story a 4.5, just because it iwas hard to connect with Selena for me this time.
I still love the world building and look forward to seeing what happens next.
I loved getting to know the 9 better and hope they are in book 3, because Selena is going to need them if she has to take on the Counsel.
Honestly as a book 2, this was hard for me to get into at first. There was so much hurt and anger as Selena battled with everything that she learned at the end of Heir of Shadows.
Once you get about 1/2 way through and the secrets start revealing more if the back story to Selena’s life, her rage seems to find a purpose and she focuses.
I would give the story a 4.5, just because it iwas hard to connect with Selena for me this time.
I still love the world building and look forward to seeing what happens next.
I loved getting to know the 9 better and hope they are in book 3, because Selena is going to need them if she has to take on the Counsel.
April 8, 2021
A must read! The series just keeps getting better!!!
What a cliffhanger!! Selena was put through so much in this book and her madness is coming to the forefront now. We find out there is more hiding in Selena and her sisters than we thought possible at first. Violet the entity within Selena has been with her since her awakening but locked away for sometime. Between Aaron and Lucas wow. I did not see that twist coming. I wonder if Selena will ever forgive Lucas for his part at the end. Kel Carpenter wrote this story so well I could feel Selena’s emotions in that moment. I was crushed and crying along with her. The. Just as angry to see her revenge come to fruition. I can’t wait for the next book to find out what will happen.
What a cliffhanger!! Selena was put through so much in this book and her madness is coming to the forefront now. We find out there is more hiding in Selena and her sisters than we thought possible at first. Violet the entity within Selena has been with her since her awakening but locked away for sometime. Between Aaron and Lucas wow. I did not see that twist coming. I wonder if Selena will ever forgive Lucas for his part at the end. Kel Carpenter wrote this story so well I could feel Selena’s emotions in that moment. I was crushed and crying along with her. The. Just as angry to see her revenge come to fruition. I can’t wait for the next book to find out what will happen.
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