Summoning the Night (Arcadia Bell, #2)

May 03, 2012 Maja rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: all-the-right-choices, demons-can-be-hot-too, 2012-favorites, highly-anticipating-2012, favorites, just-another-book-crush, magic, never-saw-it-coming, urban-fantasy, reviewed-in-2012

Guess what, folks! It is entirely possible to write good urban fantasy without relationship drama or love triangle drama. Who knew?! Well, I did, and I guess Jenn Bennett did too because that’s what she delivered. After the sweet beginning of Cady and Lon’s relationship in Kindling the Moon, I thought they would surely start having second thoughts, realize that their age difference and Lon’s teenage son are too much to handle, or at least that one of them would be attracted to another person as...more Guess what, folks! It is entirely possible to write good urban fantasy without relationship drama or love triangle drama. Who knew?! Well, I did, and I guess Jenn Bennett did too because that’s what she delivered. After the sweet beginning of Cady and Lon’s relationship in Kindling the Moon, I thought they would surely start having second thoughts, realize that their age difference and Lon’s teenage son are too much to handle, or at least that one of them would be attracted to another person as well. I mean, that’s how these things go, right? Wrong! I never in my wildest dreams expected them to communicate, to be supportive and ready to commit to each other, but most of all, I didn’t think they’d end up solving paranormal mysteries together, like a family. Shows what I know.

Now that Arcadia Bell finally knows the truth about her parents, she’s free to live her life with Lon and his son Jupe, work in her tiki bar and learn about her Moonchild abilities. Or at least she should be. When Earthbound teens start disappearing and the connection is made between current kidnappings and a 30-year-old unsolved case, Cady and Lon are asked to investigate. Normally they would refuse such an assignment, but all the kidnapped teens are connected to Hellfire, a club of Earthbounds Lon belongs to, which means that Jupe might be next. With Lon’s son in danger, there’s really no way they could refuse.

As if that isn’t enough, Jupe is developing his knack earlier than most part-demons. His knack is very dangerous, especially in the hands of a fourteen-year-old boy: it turns out that he can compel people to do anything he wants just by talking to them. The parental struggles that ensue are both heartwarming and at times hilarious.

Everyone who has a soft spot for Kate Daniels’ kid Julie like I do, will fall in love with Jupiter in a second. Most of the humor in both books comes from him, but he also made me tear up once or twice. He is sweet, intelligent and very realistic.

I think I’ve already made it clear how much I love Cady and Lon together. I’d continue the series just for that, even if the rest wasn’t that good. I got a little angry with Cady in the second half when she didn’t stand up to Mr. Dare, but I understand her fear and the need to hide her identity. Again, what makes it better is that Lon knows all her secrets so she doesn’t have to worry about him abandoning her in the future.

If you’re like me and you’re always on the lookout for a good urban fantasy series, Arcadia Bell is an excellent choice. I don’t know when book three is coming out, but I know I’ll pre-order it.

For more of my reviews, please visit The Nocturnal Library
(less)

like 39 likes · see review

Apr 24, 2012 Michelle, the Bookshelf Stalker rated it 5 of 5 stars

Read my review here and enter our badass giveaway....

http://badassbookreviews.com/arc-revi...

or you can read the review below!

It’s about damn time. An urban fantasy novel that has…

…A solid, stable couple as the main characters. Lon and Cady are a couple. A real, honest couple.

Hold on there is more…

…The main characters communicate to each other rather than act on assumptions. Lon and Cady don’t make life altering decisions based on assumptions about their partners. If they are confused, suspiciou...more

like 17 likes · see review

Apr 01, 2012 Mariya rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, angels-demons, magic-users, favorites, books-i-own, epicness-happening, great-dialogue, hot-sex, kick-ass-heroine, laugh-out-loud, sexual-tension, single-parent, side-character-love

“That’s right.” Jupe arched his back and stretched like a cat, then smugly pretended to crack his knuckles. “Step aside and watch the master go to work, people.”

SUMMONING THE NIGHT was even more amazing than I thought it would be. I think I seriously forgot how much I just loved the first book in the Arcadia Bell Series, Kindling the Moon. Yeah. That totally must be it! I couldn't put down SUMMONING THE NIGHT since I started and I read half the book in a night which I never do! That how much...more

like 4 likes · see review

Apr 17, 2012 Julie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012, favorites

Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks

Kindling the Moon by Jenn Bennett was my second most favorite read of 2011. Seriously people, it is amazing. It is a debut book by a new author and it’s written so well you can’t believe you are reading a first book. (And if you haven’t read it yet, then I haven’t been loud enough about how incredible the book is!). Seeing how much I loved LOVED book one, you can only imagine how high my hopes were for book two. Remember, book one was my number two favor...more

like 5 likes · see review

Apr 30, 2012 Negine rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Cady, Lon & Jupe!

This second installment well and truly sealed my love for these characters. The dialogue and interactions between our main heroine Arcadia and her guys, Lon and Jupe, are still refreshingly realistic and full of humor and heart.

Now having said that the plot, for me, had a couple of small inexplicable holes in it that pulled me out of the story momentarily...but not enough that I didn't enjoy the book. I'm hoping some of my head scratching questions will be...more

like 2 likes · see review

Jun 16, 2012 Marsha rated it 4 of 5 stars

Demons and witches and bad guys oh my! Jenn Bennett has done it again. "Summoning the Night" is an other great read in the Arcadia Bell series and I gobbled down every incredible word. I must say that I truly enjoy how every character in this series has baggage, but yet the plot comes together so beautifully and uniquely. Let's face it, there are not too many series out there involving a single woman dating a man with a teenage son who is both precocious and precious.

Cady and Lon have been progr...more Demons and witches and bad guys oh my! Jenn Bennett has done it again. "Summoning the Night" is an other great read in the Arcadia Bell series and I gobbled down every incredible word. I must say that I truly enjoy how every character in this series has baggage, but yet the plot comes together so beautifully and uniquely. Let's face it, there are not too many series out there involving a single woman dating a man with a teenage son who is both precocious and precious.

Cady and Lon have been progressing in their relationship to the point that Lon has a drawer for his clothes and her house and Cady picks up and drops off Jupe from school. Just as things seem to be settling down from Cady's parents vicious attack, kids go missing. Apparently for 30 years kids have gone missing in the town around Holloween and some of these kids are the offspring of members of the Hellfire Club. The head of the club, Ambrose Dare immediately calls Lon and asks for a meeting with both he and Cady. He enlists their help in tracking down the kidnapper.

Their investigations puts them in contact with several unsavory characters including a drug addict body finder, Hajo. With his assistance, they stumble upon the body of the man they originally believed responsible for the kidnapping. Unfortunately, he has been dead a very long time. They are attacked by venemous cockroaches. Yuk! I've never liked those disgusting creatures. Hajo's request for payment of his services includes a potent binding agent as well as the binding of two individuals by Cady in the future. She is not pleased by this but his other payment request included services between the sheets and she nor Lon were not about to let that happen. What is really great here is that we get to learn more about Bob the barfly and I can tell you he is one pitifully wierd dude.

Then, through their continued investigations, they learn that other children are being taken and there is a good chance that Jupe might be next. Jupe's character is monumental in my enjoyment of the series. He is high strung and full of energy. In this addition, Jupe comes into his talent early and he skill proves to be quite useful to both Cady and his Dad. No, I will not tell you what his talent is!!!!!!!!!

Once again this series is full of action, great characters, passion and a plot to die for. I love the relationship between Lon, Cady and Jupe. Who knew having a kid in a paranormal storyline for adults would make it more interesting. If I had a complaint it would be that I wanted Ambrose Dare to get his butt kicked. I still do! Please, please Ms. Bennett write an African American High School English teacher into the next book who will kick his butt this side of hell and back. I'm just sayin.'

(less)

like 2 likes · see review

May 01, 2012 Natalie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: demons, favorites, magic, urban-fantasy

I love this series! We're only into book 2 and it is already one my favorites. Mostly, I think it is because of the main characters. They are so different from every other book out there that they keep me flipping the pages well into the night.

Cady & Lon
This is my absolute FAVORITE UF couple out there! They actually communicate with each other and aren't afraid of confronting one another with possible conflicts. Not only do they communicate, they are constantly working together in everything...more I love this series! We're only into book 2 and it is already one my favorites. Mostly, I think it is because of the main characters. They are so different from every other book out there that they keep me flipping the pages well into the night.

Cady & Lon
This is my absolute FAVORITE UF couple out there! They actually communicate with each other and aren't afraid of confronting one another with possible conflicts. Not only do they communicate, they are constantly working together in everything they do. They TRUST each other. Now that is extremely rare for UF couples. There is no running from each other or keeping secrets. They understand how a real relationship works and what they have to do in order to keep it going. This is the most realistic couple in any UF series I have ever read. So much so, that Lon is my all time favorite hero. Who wants the same old same old bad boy pretty boy alpha male? Give me a down to earth loving man any day. The fact that he has such an awesome kid is a bonus!

Jupe :)
Who doesn't love Jupe? Honestly, he is the coolest kid out there...especially for a 13 year old. Most kids at 13 hate their parents and want nothing to do with them. Not Jupe. He is all about his dad and their life. Not only does he show how much he loves his dad, he also shows how much he cares for Cady.(view spoiler)

Plot...
30 years ago, Earthbound kids were being taken by the SandPiper Snatcher and now it seems he's back. Cady and Lon have been given the task of finding the Snatcher and saving the kids before they disappear forever like the previous ones did. Only thing is, it's not just any Earthbound kids, it's the kids of the transmutated members of the Hellfire Club. This unfortunately, makes Jupe one of the main targets. It's a fight against time to keep the Snatcher from hatching his plan before Samhain. Cady and Lon must do everything they can to stop this from happening and save the kids while facing traps and and danger around every revelation.

Overall...
Another wonderful installment. I love how Lon, Cady and Jupe interact with each other. They are a great little supportive family and you can tell they truly love each other. The mystery and the danger had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen. There were several moments in this book where something horrible happens to each character....horrible enough to cause some serious damage. I will definitely be waiting impatiently for another installment in this series. (less)

like 1 like · see review

Apr 17, 2012 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Mercy Thompson Fans

Shelves: 2012, preordered, urban-fantasy, magical-powers-would-be-fun, fun-reads, on-my-kindle, read-in-april-2012, clear-eyes-full-shelves

{This review was originally published on Clear Eyes, Full Shelves.}

Jenn Bennett's debut, Kindling the Moon, was one of my favorite urban fantasy releases of 2011. Her protagonist Arcadia Bell's world of magic, good humor, family and community are what I've dubbed, "Urban fantasy with heart."

Whenever I love the first entrant into a series as much as I did Kindling the Moon, reading the sequel is rather stress-inducing. What if it doesn't live up to the first in the series? What if it's a one-hit...more

like 4 likes · see review

May 14, 2012 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Summoning the Night is the second book in Jenn Bennett’s Arcadia Bell series. It follows Kindling the Moon and is just as good as its predecessor; with this book Bennett has cemented this series’ place on my “snap up on sight” list.

The main plot this time around is that Cady is manipulated into doing an investigation for the Hellfire Club. The teenage children of Hellfire members are vanishing, and the club’s leader, Ambrose Dare, believes the culprit may be the same man who was behind a similar...more Summoning the Night is the second book in Jenn Bennett’s Arcadia Bell series. It follows Kindling the Moon and is just as good as its predecessor; with this book Bennett has cemented this series’ place on my “snap up on sight” list.

The main plot this time around is that Cady is manipulated into doing an investigation for the Hellfire Club. The teenage children of Hellfire members are vanishing, and the club’s leader, Ambrose Dare, believes the culprit may be the same man who was behind a similar series of disappearances thirty years ago. At first glance, this case isn’t as personal to Cady as the one involving her parents, but it quickly becomes personal. Cady is forced to make several choices and bargains that go against her sense of ethics or common sense or both, with repercussions that will ripple into future books. And then it turns out that Jupe, the son of Cady’s boyfriend Lon, is in danger from the kidnapper too…

Jupe. Where do I start? I love this kid. He’s one of the best secondary characters in urban fantasy right now, and steals every scene he’s in with his blend of ebullience and vulnerability. Summoning the Night starts out with a big dose of Jupe goodness, and this hooks the reader from the very beginning.

The relationship between Cady and Lon, and the one between Cady and Jupe, continue to grow and deepen. They really feel like a family now; Cady and Lon are becoming more serious and Cady and Jupe have a bond that isn’t quite mother-son — more like “cool aunt” and nephew — but it’s warm and sweet and it works. I just love it anytime these three characters, or any two of them, are on stage together.

These character relationships, which both tug at the heartstrings and provide some infectious moments of lightness, are probably the number one reason that Arcadia Bell stands out in the field. This is well on its way to becoming one of my favorite urban fantasy series, right along with Kate Daniels. It’s certainly the most *fun* I’ve had with an urban fantasy in a long time.(less)

like 8 likes · see review

Apr 13, 2012 Shelley aka Gizmo's Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-releases, genre-paranormal-romance, genre-urban-fantasy

*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0

*Full Review to come*

There are a bunch of positives. Jupiter (Jupe) Butler gets a huge chunk of story time, and his relationship with Cady is growing by the book. Another is the fact that Cady is actually realizing that being with Lon and Jupe is pretty much like having her own little family unit, and she really doesn't seem to mind it after being alone and on the run for so many years.

I really, really don't much care for Ambrose Dare (Head of the Hellfire Club)...more

like 3 likes · see review

Apr 23, 2012 MISS VAIN rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, magicians, urban-fantasy

“Oh, really? Is that why he’s hot and bothered for Arcadia here?” Kar Yee tossed an accusatory glance my way. She was well aware that honesty wasn’t one of my strong suits. “Probably,” Jupe confirmed. “My dad says he likes her so much that if she kicked him in the balls, he’d just thank her.”

Jenn Bennett has done it again, she's managed to suck me into another one if her Intoxicatingly Magical Arcadia Bell Books. Last year I was blown away with Kindling The Moon, and so it came as no shock to me...more

like 9 likes · see review

Mar 21, 2013 Fangs for the Fantasy rated it 2 of 5 stars

Arcadia Bell has a new life with her parents gone – and the beginnings of a new family with Lon and Jupe, despite her ongoing nervousness about the age gap.

But kids are going missing – Earthborn demon kids like Jupe. And it seems descendants of the Hellfire club owners are the ones who are being targeted – again, like Jupe. The kidnappings mirror a previous series of kidnappers 30 years ago. As the most powerful witch the demons of the Hellfire club know, she’s quickly recruited to help find th...more Arcadia Bell has a new life with her parents gone – and the beginnings of a new family with Lon and Jupe, despite her ongoing nervousness about the age gap.

But kids are going missing – Earthborn demon kids like Jupe. And it seems descendants of the Hellfire club owners are the ones who are being targeted – again, like Jupe. The kidnappings mirror a previous series of kidnappers 30 years ago. As the most powerful witch the demons of the Hellfire club know, she’s quickly recruited to help find the children. Something she’s happy to do, despite her misgivings over the club, but quickly it is clear the Earthborn will do anything to force her obedience and encourage her efforts

As Hallowe’en approaches, more kids vanish and the deadline to find the children draws near – and the pressure on Arcadia grows.

Before I begin, it’s going to sound like I am 10 kinds of grouchy about this book, which isn’t the case. Because I liked the book, I enjoyed it and I dashed it off in a day with no problem at all. The problem is a lot of the positives are rather mundane and only worth mentioning because I want to counter the impression this is a negative review. And it’s not – I liked this book, I enjoyed this book. I liked the relationships. I liked the characters. The story was fun, interesting, well written and well paced. The world is broad and interesting. There’s a lot of good here.

And several of the issues I had with the last book are changed – particularly Lon and Cady’s romance which is no longer jam packed with pointless drama for the sake of drama. In fact, the romance was blessedly smooth, happy with occasional moments of angst and doubt due to the age gap, but a refreshing lack of drama for drama’s sake. In fact, her, Lon and Jupe forming their own family are some of the best and most fun elements of the book.

Cady was also a much less passive character than she was in the last book. Now, that’s not saying much since in the last book she did very little esxcept follow. This book is better – she actively chooses to get involved when asked (though, irritatingly, she is then threatened to make her do what she had already chosen to do, undermining her agency). There’s still a lot of following Lon and the ending has an element of random woo-woo saving things for them but she’s more in control in this book than the last. If not in the driving seat, at least she’s called shotgun and has the map – and isn’t in the trailer being pulled by the car. That metaphor made more sense in my head but I’m sure you can follow it. She does have ideas in this book and they largely follow them – but they’re often complained about, some of them don’t work and some of them do work but… well, the chances of them backfiring were high. It’s not spunky agency – high isn’t a certainty – but when your plan involves “let’s give this potion that enslaves people to the sinister drug addict with criminal connections” then there is certainly a high probably of backfire there.

I did not dislike this book. But I am 10 kinds of frustrated with this book for not meeting the potential both this book and the last book has shown. There are a lot of niggles and objections I have which, when piled up, look huge and do come together to be a problem – but don’t stop the book being enjoyable.

I don’t like how Arcadia approaches her powers. I think “my parents wanted it so it must be bad” is such a very shallow reason for her to decide not to use her Moonchild powers. It’s so simplistic and it’s not like she hasn’t had positive affirmation of it either. She’s had months with these powers now and she’s not done anything to investigate them, develop them, research them, practice with them or anything. Demons are calling her “Mother” and she’s just letting it go. She’s even using more normal magic when she could do exactly the same thing for less pain and effort by kindling moon energy.

It feels contrived excuse to make sure the heroine who you have, perhaps, given more power than intended doesn’t then use those powers too much – a way to drag out the development of her power growth slowly over several books by adding a simplistic fear of them which, frankly, is very overdone in Urban Fantasy anyway.

Read More (less)

like · see review

Nov 26, 2012 Krystal rated it 4 of 5 stars

This second book in the series made me want to read the first, so after reading Kindling the Moon I was ready for action. When you read other reviews on Goodreads and Amazon they all talk about how amazing the love between Lon and Arcadia is. I have to say they’re completely 100% right! My gosh! It’s like a match made in heaven. Both of them have each other’s backs and they act like they’ve been married for quite some time. They work as a team, not individually. Lon’s son, Jupe, is also a wonder...more

like · see review

Oct 09, 2012 Lucy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, fun, good-worldbuilding, kick-ass-heroine, romance, uf, witches

I really enjoyed this book. Definitely one of the better UF's out there at the moment, outside of the big 3-4 main ones.

The best part about these books are the normal likeable characters and their overall lack of those cliche tropey characteristics and pitfalls that so many UF authors are using of late. The relationship between Cady and Lon is strong and actually realistic, meaning they don't get in fights about stupid shit, there are no crazy ridiculous love triangles, no ridiculous amped up d...more

like · see review

Aug 15, 2012 TheArgopelter rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: dark-and-gritty, kick-ass-chicks, must-read-right-now, original-concept, paranormal-romance, sexual-chemistry, romping-good-fun, urban-fantasy, wonderful-story, hot-older-man, amazing-characters, magic-mystery-and-mayhem

If you haven’t read Summoning the Night then clearly you have rocks in your head. Bennett’s most recent offering has it all - magic, manipulation and murder.

In the second book in the Arcadia Bell (Cady) universe, Jenn managed to surpass the greatness of ‘Kindling the Moon’ and knock this one out of the ball-park, baby. Night picks up where Moon left off, with Cady in a relationship with the very dishy demonic Lon Butler and in possession of some very questionable moonchild abilities.

Drawn into a...more

like · see review

Jul 31, 2012 Bookmom rated it 4 of 5 stars

I greatly enjoyed the first book, but I have to say I think this second book is even better.

Arcadia (Cady) Bell—no this isn’t her real name, but she’s still hiding her identity from most—is a little taken back when Ambrose Dare, the head of the Hellfire Club, tells her she has to find The Snatcher, the name given to an individual who kidnapped seven children thirty years ago and the kids were never found. Kids belonging to members of the Hellfire Club are once again disappearing and it’s believe...more I greatly enjoyed the first book, but I have to say I think this second book is even better.

Arcadia (Cady) Bell—no this isn’t her real name, but she’s still hiding her identity from most—is a little taken back when Ambrose Dare, the head of the Hellfire Club, tells her she has to find The Snatcher, the name given to an individual who kidnapped seven children thirty years ago and the kids were never found. Kids belonging to members of the Hellfire Club are once again disappearing and it’s believed they are needed for some ritual that will take place on Halloween. Cady wants nothing to do with the Hellfire Club which caters to Earthbound demons after what she witnessed in the last book, but she can’t deny the kids, especially since Lon’s son, Jupe, could be a target.

Lon Butler, an expert in demonology and an Earthbound demon himself, of course helps in the investigation to discover who the Snatcher is. He and Cady have gotten very close and it finally hits home for Cady that with Jupe and Lon, she’s part of a family.

There’s plenty of action, suspense, magic, humor, morals and emotions in this story. The magical situations they find themselves in are interesting. The world and character building are well-done and this series can easily rival some of the more well known series in the Urban Fantasy genre.

Fourteen year-old Jupe adds a lot to the story. Not just his very likeable character, but the very dangerous “knack” it turns out that he has, all the while teetering back and forth emotionally between teen and child. His “knack” or gift is something that could easily be abused, and he’s at least a year younger than most Earthbounds to learn what his knack is, adding to the fear that it’s too much for someone so young.

Cady doesn’t yet know the extent of her abilities and doesn’t really want to find out. It scares her, but when they’re in danger, will use what she can while not understanding what she can do. Again, it sounds like the Moonchild Magic, which makes her the most powerful magician she knows of, could easily be misused if Cady didn’t have the morals she does. Still, there’s a lot to learn.

This author and series has been added to my watch-for-the-next-book list.
(less)

like · see review

Jul 17, 2012 Ioana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: demons-vamps-and-all-that, loved-it, magic, romance, my-reviews, urban-fantasy

Every bit as good as the first book!

Apparently it is entirely possible to write a good book without relying on a love triangle for dramatic effect and unecessary problems in an otherwise perfect relationship. Also, apparently it's entirely possible of bringing the reader up to speed on events from the previous book without having 4 first chapters full of repetitions.

I swear, if I didn't know any better, I'd be saying I've been reading the wrong kinds of books so far.

Summoning the Night has the...more

like · see review

Jul 09, 2012 Elb4966 rated it 3 of 5 stars

The book was OK. It was spoiled by things happening that I do not think would occur. One of the main things is: spoiler follows.

I don't think it is feasible for Cady to be blackmailed by the earthbound demon.

1st - Her friends already know she is not be straightforward about her past, so what does it matter if the demon threatens to tell them.

2nd - She has all these powers against demons, why is she afraid of them. All she has to do is use some of her powers. The main thing she can do is send th...more

like · see review

Jul 06, 2012 Hailey' ♥ Glock,Paper,Scissors ♥ rated it 3 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the series in general.
Of course there are some things that both me as there is in any book, that can't be helped. Although, there is many i love too.

Spoilers Ahead.

These few things bothered me the most!
Mr. Dare ! OHMYGOD! I've never hated a character more, he's now made cady the Hellfire Club official magician. He also has staked a "claim on her" that he now "owns" her because he knows who she is. I dont understand her fear of identity being known. She's inocce...more

like · see review

Jun 26, 2012 Kelster rated it 5 of 5 stars

Summoning the Night is a fantastic UF followup to [[ASIN:B004G8QSEE Kindling the Moon (Arcadia Bell)]]. I loved this book for so many reasons, but here are just a few:

1) The mystery that Summoning was centered around was great, with enough twists and turns to keep me interested and invested. This mystery brought back characters from the first book but it also allowed the introduction of new characters that will have an effect, I'm sure, on Lon and Cady in future novels.

2) It was great to witne...more Summoning the Night is a fantastic UF followup to [[ASIN:B004G8QSEE Kindling the Moon (Arcadia Bell)]]. I loved this book for so many reasons, but here are just a few:

1) The mystery that Summoning was centered around was great, with enough twists and turns to keep me interested and invested. This mystery brought back characters from the first book but it also allowed the introduction of new characters that will have an effect, I'm sure, on Lon and Cady in future novels.

2) It was great to witness the continuation of Cady, Lon and Jupe becoming a family and the insight given into how each member is affected by the new dynamics. The scenes that demonstrated their growth, trust and love for one another...very touching. Best and most realistic interactions I have seen in any novel.

3) Every character in the book seems real. I especially love that Lon can experience impatience, embarrassment, fear and confusion and it doesn't take anything away from him, except to make him more lovable. Who said our H's had to be perfect and that any mistake they made would need to be attributed to a "tragic flaw" that is so often attached to leading males in novels. Real men experience real emotions and it was wonderful to see it written here.

4) Lon is protective and possessive of Cady without stealing or stifling her independence. In fact he appreciates her skill sets and has no problem following her lead or deferring to her when the situation calls for it. Now, because I like a jealous, possessive H I am ready to see more of this from Lon in the next book.

5) I love Cady and Lon together but Jupe absolutely steals the show. I have never seen a child/teen character written so well. Ever! Jupe is funny, smart, lovable and as a reader you don't skim over his parts or become impatient because he is in a scene. In fact, he makes every scene that he is in funny and entertaining.

Summoning provides enough mystery to push the story along but it is also interspersed with wonderful character relations which enabled me to relate to and love Cady, Lon and Jupe together and separately.

Jenn Bennett has begun an excellent series with awesome and realistic characters. I like that this book ended with a complete wrap up of the mystery that was introduced but it also laid the groundwork for a new difficulty that Cady will have to face. I cannot wait to read the next installment!(less)

like · see review

Jun 10, 2012 OpenBookSociety.com rated it 4 of 5 stars

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Verushka

Arcadia Bell is back! And so is Lon and Jupiter and the Hellfire Club, in this the second of the series by Jenn Bennett.

The book opens with Arcadia firmly a part of Lon and Jupiter’s life, to the extent that her boyfriend has no qualms about leaving his son with her while he is away on a shoot. As a result, we are treated to some Jupiter/Arcadia time which goes a long way to showing most effectively how much a part of his life he is, and how he trusts her.

O...more Brought to you by OBS reviewer Verushka

Arcadia Bell is back! And so is Lon and Jupiter and the Hellfire Club, in this the second of the series by Jenn Bennett.

The book opens with Arcadia firmly a part of Lon and Jupiter’s life, to the extent that her boyfriend has no qualms about leaving his son with her while he is away on a shoot. As a result, we are treated to some Jupiter/Arcadia time which goes a long way to showing most effectively how much a part of his life he is, and how he trusts her.

One thing their relationship highlighted for me in the beginning and during the rest of the book is how effortlessly Arcadia has been adopted into Lon and Jupiter’s life. Part of me wonders if,as a reader, I’ve missed on seeing how they came to trust her and wants a little more angst, but there are too many books that can provide that. What I like about this series is that Arcadia has to learn how not to be a loner, and I confess the trials and tribulations of a supernatural couple bringing up a supernatural son in an incredibly normal surroundings is far more interesting and provides an interesting source of conflict. In this title, Jupiter develops his “knack”, his power as the child of two supernatural beings and it is the ability to make people do what he wants. Something dangerous in the hands of a teenager, no matter how hard the parents try to teach him to do better. In this book, Jupiter is still a very young teen, so I expect and hope things change for the interaction between the three as a family is far more interesting than if Arcadia was angsting over a possible love interest.

The book begins with and maintains a fast pace, in keeping with the premise of this novel – children are being snatched, very much like children were thirty-something years ago in the town and the pacing emphasises the fear every adult has for the safety of their child. The HellFire Club asks Lon and Arcadia to look into the case and the action moves quickly, with tightly written prose. Suffice it to say, the case is long and winding and Arcadia is forced to use her MoonChild power, the same power her parents essentially bred her for and tried to kill her for. She begins afraid of it, but by the end of the book, she is more in tune with the power than she might care to admit. Her greatest fear is that she will turn out like her parents, and Jupiter too is a catalyst for bringing that fear out in her.

The only thing I am unsure about is the speed with which Arcadia falls under the thumb of the head of the HellFire Club, Dare, the same man who hires her to search for the missing children. On the one hand, I can understand the need for an antagonist for Arcadia as she is firmly settled in her bar and her town. How often can new people come into town to give her a case to solve? But, then again, people can come into town, asking for her help. She cannot exactly build a reputation if she wants to keep her identity safe, but the way in which Dare managed to get information about her past and became a threat felt too much like a convience in what was already a packed novel.

Overall, an effortless, enjoyable read. If you liked the Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay – and I love that series – you’ll enjoy Arcadia, Lon and Jupe immensely.

http://openbooksociety.com/article/su...(less)

like · see review

May 23, 2012 William Bentrim rated it 4 of 5 stars

Summoning The Night by Jenn Bennett

This book was given 4.5 stars by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Now I don’t know the folks at Romantic Times and this is not intended to be critical but most guys would be somewhat put off with that accolade. Up front, I enjoyed the book and I avoid romance novels like the plague. The book involves a witch and her single father boyfriend demon as hey face an evil wizard and disappearing children.

Ms. Bennett takes an unlikely scenario and populates it with likea...more

like · see review

Apr 29, 2012 Stephanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Along with the review below, Jenn enters some questions for a great author interview at FANGS WANDS AND FAIRY DUST 4/29/2012
from 4/29 through 5/3/2012 there's also a giveaway.

Description:

MAGICAL TRICKS. DEMONIC TREATS.
After narrowly escaping her fate as a sacrificial scapegoat, Arcadia (Cady) Bell is back to normal. Or at least as ordinary as life can be for a renegade magician and owner of a tiki bar that caters to Earthbound demons. She’s gearing up for the busiest day of the year—Hallowee

...more Along with the review below, Jenn enters some questions for a great author interview at FANGS WANDS AND FAIRY DUST 4/29/2012
from 4/29 through 5/3/2012 there's also a giveaway.

Description:

MAGICAL TRICKS. DEMONIC TREATS.
After narrowly escaping her fate as a sacrificial scapegoat, Arcadia (Cady) Bell is back to normal. Or at least as ordinary as life can be for a renegade magician and owner of a tiki bar that caters to Earthbound demons. She’s gearing up for the busiest day of the year—Halloween—when a vengeful kidnapper paralyzes the community. The influential head of the local Hellfire Club taps Cady to track down the fiendish bogeyman, and now that she’s dating red-hot Lon Butler, the club’s wayward son, she can hardly say no.
Cady and Lon untangle a gruesome thirty-year trail of clues that points to danger for the club members’ children. But locating the person behind the terror will require some metaphysical help from Cady’s loyal bar patrons as well as her potent new Moonchild powers—and she’d better figure it out before the final victim disappears and her own darkest secret becomes her biggest enemy. www.jennbennett.net

Let's get my thoughts out of the way:

I loved the book. I kept clicking next page late into the night because I wanted to know what happens next. The tone and quality are consistent and the characters and the world are developing nicely. The plot is very contemporary and salient. The book is well edited which I think is soooo important in a e-publishing world. I Highly Recommend the book and the series; I believe it's a great new series for Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance readers. I really like Kim Harrison and I think it would be a great series for any one who enjoys the Hollows/Rachel Morgan books. While it could stand alone, I believe it is better in a serial context and since it is only book 2, it's easy to catch-up!

Jenn enters some questions for a great author interview at FANGS WANDS AND FAIRY DUST 4/29/2012

(less)

like · see review

Apr 29, 2012 Mara rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

The Arcadia Bell series gets even more solid with this second book. The world-building is fresh and exciting, the action gripping and no-stop, and the building romance "right" (as in perfectly right-paced).

Then there's the story: absolutely engaging, even if the plot has two problems (one is to me a proper hole):

-Arcadia is a witch. There's no logical reason to ask her to investigate a possible kidnapper turned serial killer. She is powerful, but as a magic user. The foundation is a bit shaky.....more

like 2 likes · see review

Apr 21, 2012 Readsalot81 rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, urban-fantasy

Well I had a review, I don't know where it went.. lol

Anyways, Jenn Bennett's first novel, Kindling the Moon, was one of my top favorite debuts of 2011. Her writing style is quick paced, but easy to follow. The visual imagery is outstanding and one of my favorite parts of her books. The characters are engaging and fun to root for.

Perhaps to me, what makes Cady an excellent heroine is the fact that she's smart, but doesn't possess super strength/speed/knife/sword waving abilities. She could be a l...more

like · see review

Apr 11, 2012 Looksie (At Looksie Lovitz: Books and Wits Blog) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Review: Summoning The Night by Jenn Bennett

First, I want to say that I can't stand Cady's hair. It's like a skunk. Now that I got that out of my system, I will say that this book rocked. I feel like the first one was more about Cady and her mysterious self, people being after her and her romance with Lon. This book was focused on a supernatural serial killer of kids with Cady trying to solve the mystery. I guess I was hoping to see more of Cady's moon child badassery but the book was still great...more

like · see review

Apr 02, 2012 Jenn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy

I was absolutely thrilled when Jenn Bennett agreed to participate in Paranormal April Fools' because I think she's an extremely talented writer. (And I love her hat in her author photo.) I was even more excited when my review copy of SUMMONING THE NIGHT appeared in the mail because it meant I got to spend time with Cady, Lon, and Jupe. I thought Cady's first adventure, KINDLING THE MOON, was a masterful debut (my full post here) and I was dying to find out what was going to happen next. I'm plea...more I was absolutely thrilled when Jenn Bennett agreed to participate in Paranormal April Fools' because I think she's an extremely talented writer. (And I love her hat in her author photo.) I was even more excited when my review copy of SUMMONING THE NIGHT appeared in the mail because it meant I got to spend time with Cady, Lon, and Jupe. I thought Cady's first adventure, KINDLING THE MOON, was a masterful debut (my full post here) and I was dying to find out what was going to happen next. I'm pleased to report that SUMMONING THE NIGHT exceeded my (perhaps too high) expectations! Jenn Bennett has created another amazing novel filled with strong characters, magical surprises, and quirky humour.

The central plot of SUMMONING THE NIGHT revolves around the return of the Snatcher, someone who was kidnapping teenagers 30 years ago and who's back for more of them just in time for Halloween. Cady and Lon get roped in because the kids that are getting taken are from Hellfire Club families; neither one of them particularly want to associate with the Hellfire Club but they do end up investigating the old crime to try to stop the current one. It's a great story with lots of twists and turns and I couldn't predict what was going to happen as the novel progressed. In the process of their investigation, we get to learn more about Cady's Moonchild powers and about the magics that exist in Cady's world.

On the relationship front, Lon and Cady's romance is going strong. It's not quite old hat but they're definitely comfortable with each other. There are some great sexy moments but I really enjoyed seeing them a little more (but not entirely) settled. I also enjoyed the occasional comments other characters made about their age gap. :) Plus, the family dynamic with Lon's teenage Jupe is adorable. Cady and Jupe's relationship is a lot of fun because they're closer in age than she and Lon and because Jupe is just such a rascal. He's absolutely irresistible and I love it when he's on the page. There are some particularly awesome Jupe moments in SUMMONING THE NIGHT so you'll need to pick this book up if you liked him in KINDLING THE MOON.

We also get to see some new faces and learn more about some of the characters introduced in Cady's debut. There are some wonderful scenes with Kar Yee, Cady's business partner and best friend. Kar Yee's one of my favourite characters in the book because she's so sharp and alive and I was pleased to get to know her better. We also get to know some of the darker folks, particularly Ambrose Dare from the Hellfire Club. I don't like him. You won't either. But he's good for the story and I appreciate him for that reason, and that reason alone.

All in all, SUMMONING THE NIGHT is a fabulous entry into the urban fantasy genre and I can't wait to see what happens with Cady, Lon, and Jupe next. Make sure you pick up your copy on April 24!

http://www.tyngasreviews.com (less)

like · see review

Jun 09, 2012 Dark Faerie Tales rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-sheila

Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Explores the joys of day-to-day relationship problems while hunting down serial killers.

Opening Sentence: Jupe pinched himself on the arm and grinned from the passenger seat of my Volkswagon.

The Review:

I was impressed with the first book from the Arcadia Bell series, Kindling the Moon. It was funny without being comedic and filled with sexual tension that didn’t over-shadow the main conflict. That’s a hard act to follow. So after reading Sum...more

like · see review

May 04, 2012 Iris (Paranormal Cravings) rated it 4 of 5 stars

This one is really a quick read with only +/- 300 pages and because it is written so well and addicted the fun was over with half a day :) Just like the first book Jenn Bennett sets a great story that pulls you in! She is a talented writer and i def want to read more of her books. But F*ck…. now i have to wait for the next fix/book coming out in december "Leashing the Tempest". Summoning the Night was like i said a real page turner, kept me up at night it was exciting and non stop fun from page...more

like · see review

May 03, 2012 Madame X rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: heroine-to-hang-out-with, paranormal-urban-fantasy, romance-established-couple

The plot of SUMMONING THE NIGHT is not that great, but the characters are fantastic. And Jenn Bennett seems to understand what works in this series, because she takes time for the quiet moments, Arcadia and Jupe teasing one another, the sexual chemistry that's like a cherry on top of Arcadia and Lon's otherwise solid, settled relationship. This is an urban fantasy with magic and demons and incubi and all that jazz, but at heart it's a story about the three main characters becoming a family.

The...more

like 3 likes · see review

title link	preview: Summoning the Night
avg rating	preview: Summoning the Night Goodreads rating: 4.07 (1185 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11476593-summoning-the-night?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1317419212l/11476593.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11476593-summoning-the-night?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Summoning the Night by Jenn Bennett[/url]

Summoning the Night (Arcadia Bell #2)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (2)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Jenn Bennett

Books by Jenn Bennett

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Summoning the Night

Quotes from Summoning the Night