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Dark Magick #4
Midnight Enchantment
Niall Quinn, mage and the finest thief in the Black Tower, is the fae's best hope for freedom. But he meets his match in Elizabeth Cely Saintjohn. Torn between his duty and the shocking lust Elizabeth has stirred in him, Niall must convince her to surrender-before he is forced to destroy her and all she holds dear...
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2012
15 people are currently reading
1264 people want to read
About the author
Anya Bast
67 books1,452 followersAnya Bast is the author of numerous works of romantic fiction, mostly all paranormal and mostly all scorching hot. She lives in the country with her husband, daughter, eight cats, a dog, and an odd assortment of rescued animals.
She grew up in Minnesota and still favors the colder climates. After high school she moved to the southeast United States where she attended college. While in graduate school she sold her first book and decide to pursue her lifelong dream of writing instead of a career in psychology.
Somewhat reclusive by nature, she can be drawn out with a good bottle of red wine, classic movies, or good music. When she’s not writing, she can be found trying to grow organic vegetables, shopping in thrift stores for that perfect piece of clothing, or dreaming about travel to some faraway country.
She’s hard at work on a brand new series for Berkley Sensation right now, while winding up her national bestselling Elemental Witches quartet.
She grew up in Minnesota and still favors the colder climates. After high school she moved to the southeast United States where she attended college. While in graduate school she sold her first book and decide to pursue her lifelong dream of writing instead of a career in psychology.
Somewhat reclusive by nature, she can be drawn out with a good bottle of red wine, classic movies, or good music. When she’s not writing, she can be found trying to grow organic vegetables, shopping in thrift stores for that perfect piece of clothing, or dreaming about travel to some faraway country.
She’s hard at work on a brand new series for Berkley Sensation right now, while winding up her national bestselling Elemental Witches quartet.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 10, 2016
I won this book as a prize from a contest from the author. I love Anya Bast, so I probably would have bought this book rather than getting it from the library if I hadn't won it. I won't reprise the storyline, as you can find that in plenty of other places. It is part of the Dark Magick series, and it is always bittersweet to me to read the last book of a series, so it was a little hard to finish, knowing this would be the last one of this series.
It has been awhile since I read the previous book in the series. I don't like books that spend so much time rehashing the world building that it dilutes the plot. I have to admit, however, that I would have liked a few more small reminders of the previous book plots to keep me more grounded in the overall story line.
This book was a good mix of action and romance. It was mostly action, with only a few (admittedly good!) sex scenes scattered through the book. Too many authors have been piling more and more sex into their books to the detriment of the plot, and I liked how there were only a few sex scenes, which serves to highten their impact.
This was not my favorite book in the series- I thought Cruel Enchantment (Dark Magick #2) was the best and Wicked Enchantment (Dark Magick #1) the worst. I was anxiously awaiting the release of this book, but did not find the book quite lived up to my expectations. Not her greatest work, but definitely not her worst. This was a solid 3.5 star book, however, and I would recommend it to others.
It has been awhile since I read the previous book in the series. I don't like books that spend so much time rehashing the world building that it dilutes the plot. I have to admit, however, that I would have liked a few more small reminders of the previous book plots to keep me more grounded in the overall story line.
This book was a good mix of action and romance. It was mostly action, with only a few (admittedly good!) sex scenes scattered through the book. Too many authors have been piling more and more sex into their books to the detriment of the plot, and I liked how there were only a few sex scenes, which serves to highten their impact.
This was not my favorite book in the series- I thought Cruel Enchantment (Dark Magick #2) was the best and Wicked Enchantment (Dark Magick #1) the worst. I was anxiously awaiting the release of this book, but did not find the book quite lived up to my expectations. Not her greatest work, but definitely not her worst. This was a solid 3.5 star book, however, and I would recommend it to others.
March 27, 2016
This is the weakest book in the series when you consider the couple. I didn't buy into Elizabeth and Niall's romance. It was the constant chase, kidnapping, and deception. And a convenient pairing of someone who has LOTS of sexual experience with a virgin. Barf. A big no thanks. So why four stars? Well, everything else. The underlying story-line of all the pieces of the bosca fadbh being in one spot and unlocking a certain book. I was happy to find out just who was helping the Pheandir from the inside. And it is someone BIG (and who I didn't like). Overall, I was very happy with the conclusion.
February 15, 2012
Hello everyone, sorry for my extended hiatus, things round here got a tad busy and well, life threw me over its shoulder and scampered off into the jungle! But I am still here, and alive and trying to get back to my blogging. So here goes, review number one and a review of a series which I have loved. This is the last book in the series and did it disappoint? No, absolutely not, it was great! One this did disappoint me, and that was simply that it was the last in the series, I even tweeted Anya Bast to ask, this was her reply, "For now. I tied it up, no loose ends...but I'm thinking v. seriously about a spin off series. Love that world."
I know! How exciting would that be, so many characters I would love to hear more about: but look at me I am getting distracted. You want to know about this book and more that just simply, it is good and you need to read it. Even if that does cover the basics. ;)
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I have been fascinated by the Quinn brothers since I first came across Ronan's story in All I Want for Christmas a few years ago and throughout the other stories we have had glimpses of his brother Niall, strong, quiet, stealthy, intelligent, secretive and sexy! A man/mage/fae I definitely wanted to get to know better and in this book we did. We got to know the man behind the magic, not just the exterior he projects to others but the depth of caring which dwells in his core. Truly a man for all seasons.
Elizabeth is an intricate character and someone you understand from the outset, and really you need to, she his hiding what the fae need to escape their prison, we need to understand her motivations and be with her whilst she gives Niall the run around. And in my opinion we do understand her, we understand her innocence and fear of what might happen all whilst we understand Niall's need to steal them from her and return them to the Shadow Queen. It puts us in a unique position between them, the perfect place to watch their growing relationship, to watch as it shifts and becomes more, to watch as it becomes about salvation of themselves and not just salvation of their race.
The plot is pacey and intricate which keeps you reading, the end is action packed and pleasing, and with a few surprises. All the usual gang make an appearance which is great, what I really liked was getting to see the depth of the relationship of Aislinn and Gabriel who were the protagonists of the first novel, looking at how they had grown into their respective roles and how their love had deepened.
There are some really fun parts of the novel too, ones that make you laugh, squirm and go awww. One of my favourite fun bits was when Niall eats Elizabeth's Mum's cookies! Truthfully it was. Hehehe.
A great end to the series, loose ends are tied up and the 'hint' and the end made me smile, I am just sad it had to end. If you are looking for a really worthwhile fae series, please, give these books a try.
I give Midnight Enchantment 4.5 frillies out of 5, a great read I wish could have gone on longer.
I know! How exciting would that be, so many characters I would love to hear more about: but look at me I am getting distracted. You want to know about this book and more that just simply, it is good and you need to read it. Even if that does cover the basics. ;)
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I have been fascinated by the Quinn brothers since I first came across Ronan's story in All I Want for Christmas a few years ago and throughout the other stories we have had glimpses of his brother Niall, strong, quiet, stealthy, intelligent, secretive and sexy! A man/mage/fae I definitely wanted to get to know better and in this book we did. We got to know the man behind the magic, not just the exterior he projects to others but the depth of caring which dwells in his core. Truly a man for all seasons.
Elizabeth is an intricate character and someone you understand from the outset, and really you need to, she his hiding what the fae need to escape their prison, we need to understand her motivations and be with her whilst she gives Niall the run around. And in my opinion we do understand her, we understand her innocence and fear of what might happen all whilst we understand Niall's need to steal them from her and return them to the Shadow Queen. It puts us in a unique position between them, the perfect place to watch their growing relationship, to watch as it shifts and becomes more, to watch as it becomes about salvation of themselves and not just salvation of their race.
The plot is pacey and intricate which keeps you reading, the end is action packed and pleasing, and with a few surprises. All the usual gang make an appearance which is great, what I really liked was getting to see the depth of the relationship of Aislinn and Gabriel who were the protagonists of the first novel, looking at how they had grown into their respective roles and how their love had deepened.
There are some really fun parts of the novel too, ones that make you laugh, squirm and go awww. One of my favourite fun bits was when Niall eats Elizabeth's Mum's cookies! Truthfully it was. Hehehe.
A great end to the series, loose ends are tied up and the 'hint' and the end made me smile, I am just sad it had to end. If you are looking for a really worthwhile fae series, please, give these books a try.
I give Midnight Enchantment 4.5 frillies out of 5, a great read I wish could have gone on longer.
August 14, 2015
*** Spoilers ***
The series has come to an end and the walls around the fae may come crumbling down.
The Summer Queen is missing in action and war is approaching.
You mean to tell me that out of all of the weapons Aeric can make, he didnt think to make guns and bullets, how archaeic is that?
The Fae have French Toast and alcohol but not Guns and Bullets?
This book got on my nerves..
Elizabeth got on my nerves..
The majority of the book focused on Niall Quinn chasing Elizabeth down and engaging in "pretend" torture..
The whole purpose of Elizabeth being on the run was to save her mother.
And.. what ever happened to the witch, Pissa? Wasn't she supposed to be working on a way to save Thea or trap the Sprae? That idea was never touched upon again, Thea just died..
Aislinn got on my nerves.. once she found out that the Summer Queen was working with Gideon, the Fae's worst enemy, she should have sent the Slaugh after the Summer Queen.
Why didnt Niall and Ronan try to nullify the Phaendir?
Why did Kolbjorn have to die?
How in the heck was the Summer Queen able to avoid the Slaugh? WTF?
I mean part of Aislinns big bad power was calling the Slaugh and the Goblins, if it doesnt work against any and everyone, what was the point?
The Summer Queen was responsible for so much treachery, including Watt sickness, yet her death was uncertain.
I wanted Aislinn to kick her Azz, literally and figuratively but neither happened.
I wanted the Slaugh to carry off the Summer Queen "Kicking and Screaming" and yet, we dont even know if she died, what BS!
I also didnt understand why all of the men in this series had to be signicantly older than the women. The only exception was book 2, Cruel Enchantment, with Aeric and Emmaline. I mean she was fae too, so the age difference was not that great but he was older than Emmaline as well. The females just seemd immature compared to the males.
Anywho, it was a disappointing ending to a So-So Series..
March 27, 2012
Midnight Enchantment
3.5 Stars
Synopsis
Niall Quinn, mage and master thief, is tasked with finding Elizabeth Cely Saintjohn, a water fae, who has been charged by the Summer Queen with hiding two pieces of the bosca fadbh. Once in possession of the pieces, the fae will gain their freedom by bringing down the walls of Piefferburg. Elizabeth, however, has her own reasons for wanting the walls to remain intact and will stop at nothing to ensure it. Who will triumph in this battle of wills?
Review
A solid ending to an amazing series.
The romance is not as engaging as in the first three books possibly because Niall and Elizabeth are in constant conflict and working toward opposing goals, and it is therefore difficult to believe their relationship.
Moreover, Elizabeth is the only heroine in the series that did not appeal to me. While her motivation is understandable, she comes across as selfish and I could not accept her actions. In addition, her hot one minute, cold the next attitude toward Niall really began to irritate me after a while.
Nevertheless, the action scenes are exceptional as always even if the ultimate end to the fae's struggle for freedom is somewhat anti-climactic. The obnoxious Summer Queen and vile Amberdoyle ultimately get what they deserve, but it is not as satisfying as it could have been.
Overall, the series is entertaining and enchanting and I do recommend reading it.
3.5 Stars
Synopsis
Niall Quinn, mage and master thief, is tasked with finding Elizabeth Cely Saintjohn, a water fae, who has been charged by the Summer Queen with hiding two pieces of the bosca fadbh. Once in possession of the pieces, the fae will gain their freedom by bringing down the walls of Piefferburg. Elizabeth, however, has her own reasons for wanting the walls to remain intact and will stop at nothing to ensure it. Who will triumph in this battle of wills?
Review
A solid ending to an amazing series.
The romance is not as engaging as in the first three books possibly because Niall and Elizabeth are in constant conflict and working toward opposing goals, and it is therefore difficult to believe their relationship.
Moreover, Elizabeth is the only heroine in the series that did not appeal to me. While her motivation is understandable, she comes across as selfish and I could not accept her actions. In addition, her hot one minute, cold the next attitude toward Niall really began to irritate me after a while.
Nevertheless, the action scenes are exceptional as always even if the ultimate end to the fae's struggle for freedom is somewhat anti-climactic. The obnoxious Summer Queen and vile Amberdoyle ultimately get what they deserve, but it is not as satisfying as it could have been.
Overall, the series is entertaining and enchanting and I do recommend reading it.
February 13, 2012
Wow what an amazing ending to another great series by Ms Bast. She never leaves you feeling cheated in the end. I cannot wait for the next series. But this one definitely ended with a few bangs. Niall and Elizabeth were great together and there were lots of fun little plots twists and Harrowing moments both emotionally and magically. this was a book i know i will love to read again for many years to come.
June 19, 2018
Elizabeth is hiding two of pieces of the bosca fadbh and it's Niall's job to capture her and make her turn the pieces over so the Fae can be set free. Elizabeth hates keeping the pieces hidden but if the Fae are set free her mother will die. They play cat and mouse as he tries and fails to catch her. When he finally captures her even though he uses his magic on her she will not give the pieces up. Meanwhile the Phaendir are infiltrating Pieffersburg working with the Seelie Queen determined to retrieve the pieces and the book of binding. It was a good ending to this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 29, 2021The series were good, but the protagonists in this last book were disgusting. Elisabeth really goes on my nerve. Never seen such a selfish protagonist … and Niall, really weak when it’s about Elisabeth, he would have let his people die and the whole world disappear than hurting her feelings.
We saw many men through the series who loved a woman deeply and did great things for them, but none did risk their own and entire people like those two idiots.
We saw many men through the series who loved a woman deeply and did great things for them, but none did risk their own and entire people like those two idiots.
November 2, 2017
I was a little so-so about this book that ended the series. I wasn't sold on the chemistry between the main characters and I felt it stupid for the her to lash out at Niall like she did around her mother. Also, it ended in a small cliffhanger which isn't cool.
December 7, 2023
This one really dragged for me, slow going, but I struggle to give up on a book!
February 22, 2012
Elizabeth knows that keeping the hidden pieces that hold the walls around her world together is the only way to save her mothers life. Doesn’t mean she wants to work with the enemy but seeing no other choice she agrees to do so. Her species of fae is so elusive that no one knows her secrets anyway so she feels safe in being able to keep the pieces hidden from prying eyes.
Niall has been sent to collect the pieces no matter the cost. One small, although incredibly beautiful, fae can not stand in his way. He is prepared to do everything in his power to catch the rare female and get the information he seeks. When her capture proves to be harder then he anticipated Niall decides that torture might be the only way to gain the knowledge he seeks.Except when he finally gets her within his grasp the last thing on his mind is torture.
Midnight Enchantment is the fourth book in Bast’s Dark Magick series. I will start this review off by saying I highly recommend you read this series in order. Anya Bast does an incredible and complex job on the world building. Every piece of information and every character has a part to play.
Elizabeth is a very rare form of fae. So rare that she is the only one in existence in her homeland. No one seems to know anything about her kind, though Niall comes the closest is understanding her strengths and weaknesses. Elizabeth has formed an uneasy alliance with a common enemy only to try to save her mother’s life. The fae want the walls surrounding their forest prison to come down but in doing so the sprae (a tiny fae organism) would also leave making it impossible for her sprae dependent mother to survive. I could understand her desire to protect her mother even though I also understand the fae’s need for freedom. There were times I thought Elizabeth should have understood that what she was doing was selfish, even if she still did what she did. She came off as very young a lot of the book, but also very strong. Even when put through the worst she still held her ground and refused to give in.
There were a few times I couldn’t understand what was going through Elizabeth’s head. She was so all over the map with her emotions it was hard to keep up. One minute she’d hate Niall the next she was interested in him. When Niall finally tells her he loves her she basically tells him off. I think a lot of that had to do with her maturity and I wondered what a creature as old as Niall could possible see in her sometimes. Sure she was beautiful and strong. Had a will of steel even. But her temper tantrums (for lack of a better word) got old kind of fast.
Aside from the complex world building I was often confused because the first quarter of the book felt like a dream within a dream within a dream. Nothing was as it seemed. It was hard to follow certain points because of that and I kept thinking that at the end everything was going to be fake (it wasn’t, don’t worry). Niall was on a mission to collect the pieces that Elizabeth hid and he’d stop at nothing to get them. He used everything in his arsenal to break her down, even changing her perception of reality. I often thought he wasn’t cut out to do the dirty work because he showed so much restraint and emotion.
I found the love-making to be sensual and sweet since Elizabeth was a virgin and had no experience with men at all. Niall was exceptionally great at understanding what she needed and when she needed it. I loved his range of emotion. From the man who wanted to keep his word and locate the missing pieces to the man who would do anything to save someone he loved.
I still really liked this book! Some series you can read on their own, this is not one of them. The relationship of Elizabeth and Niall was spot on, I just had a bit of trouble with her character and understanding the complexity of the continuing story arc. I am curious to know the fate of their enemy and refuse to believe it was as easy as just crumbling a fortress to be rid of them. Anya Bast is a master at her world building and story telling, Midnight Enchantment is no exception!
I give Midnight Enchantment by Anya Bast 3.50 stars!
Niall has been sent to collect the pieces no matter the cost. One small, although incredibly beautiful, fae can not stand in his way. He is prepared to do everything in his power to catch the rare female and get the information he seeks. When her capture proves to be harder then he anticipated Niall decides that torture might be the only way to gain the knowledge he seeks.Except when he finally gets her within his grasp the last thing on his mind is torture.
Midnight Enchantment is the fourth book in Bast’s Dark Magick series. I will start this review off by saying I highly recommend you read this series in order. Anya Bast does an incredible and complex job on the world building. Every piece of information and every character has a part to play.
Elizabeth is a very rare form of fae. So rare that she is the only one in existence in her homeland. No one seems to know anything about her kind, though Niall comes the closest is understanding her strengths and weaknesses. Elizabeth has formed an uneasy alliance with a common enemy only to try to save her mother’s life. The fae want the walls surrounding their forest prison to come down but in doing so the sprae (a tiny fae organism) would also leave making it impossible for her sprae dependent mother to survive. I could understand her desire to protect her mother even though I also understand the fae’s need for freedom. There were times I thought Elizabeth should have understood that what she was doing was selfish, even if she still did what she did. She came off as very young a lot of the book, but also very strong. Even when put through the worst she still held her ground and refused to give in.
There were a few times I couldn’t understand what was going through Elizabeth’s head. She was so all over the map with her emotions it was hard to keep up. One minute she’d hate Niall the next she was interested in him. When Niall finally tells her he loves her she basically tells him off. I think a lot of that had to do with her maturity and I wondered what a creature as old as Niall could possible see in her sometimes. Sure she was beautiful and strong. Had a will of steel even. But her temper tantrums (for lack of a better word) got old kind of fast.
Aside from the complex world building I was often confused because the first quarter of the book felt like a dream within a dream within a dream. Nothing was as it seemed. It was hard to follow certain points because of that and I kept thinking that at the end everything was going to be fake (it wasn’t, don’t worry). Niall was on a mission to collect the pieces that Elizabeth hid and he’d stop at nothing to get them. He used everything in his arsenal to break her down, even changing her perception of reality. I often thought he wasn’t cut out to do the dirty work because he showed so much restraint and emotion.
I found the love-making to be sensual and sweet since Elizabeth was a virgin and had no experience with men at all. Niall was exceptionally great at understanding what she needed and when she needed it. I loved his range of emotion. From the man who wanted to keep his word and locate the missing pieces to the man who would do anything to save someone he loved.
I still really liked this book! Some series you can read on their own, this is not one of them. The relationship of Elizabeth and Niall was spot on, I just had a bit of trouble with her character and understanding the complexity of the continuing story arc. I am curious to know the fate of their enemy and refuse to believe it was as easy as just crumbling a fortress to be rid of them. Anya Bast is a master at her world building and story telling, Midnight Enchantment is no exception!
I give Midnight Enchantment by Anya Bast 3.50 stars!
February 2, 2012
My Rating: 3.5 stars: Liked it a lot - recommend (B+)
I have adored Ms. Bast’s Dark Magick series since I picked up the first story in an anthology. The series chronicles an alternate Earth where humans and an “evil” cult-like group, the Phaendir, have incarcerated all Fae-kind (fairies, goblins, elven, etc.). The fae are working to escape their centuries-old prison by collecting pieces of a magical “key” call the bosca fadbh and a powerful spell book called the Book of Bindings. The mythology alone keeps me coming back again and again. But it’s Ms. Bast’s ability to create intricate storylines, exciting adventures, and sexy romances which stir up powerful emotions within me that causes me to stay up into the wee hours of the night reading her books.
The Fae’s quest for freedom climaxes in the fourth (and final?) book, Midnight Enchantment. The Fae are in possession of all the pieces of the puzzle needed to break free. Unfortunately, there are two camps - the Summer Queen has two pieces and does not want the walls to fall. The Shadow Queen, aligned with the majority of the Fae, has one piece and the Book of Bindings. She is now faced with the task of hunting down the last two pieces and taking them from the Summer Queen using any means necessary. In addition, the Shadow Queen must prepare for battle against the humans and Phaendir, who are at the gates of Piefferburg and ready to attack.
Stuck in the middle of this conflict are Niall Quinn and Elizabeth Cely Saintjohn. Both are inherently good people, but on opposite sides of the fence and willing to go to extremes to help their causes. This means that Niall is willing to capture and torture Elizabeth to discover the location in which she hid the last two pieces of the bosca fadbh (at the direction of the Summer Queen), and she is willing to die to protect her secret, thereby saving her mother.
Overall this was a great conclusion to this wonderful series (although I would be first in line to read more if Ms. Bast continues forward!); however, I felt the primary couple, Niall and Elizabeth, were not on par with the couplings in this series’ earlier books. I never really felt a connection with Niall and Elizabeth. I adored them, but it was difficult for me to get past the fact that she was (mentally) tortured at the hands of Niall. In addition, they were always at such odds with each other - I believed Elizabeth when she constantly lamented that there was too much between them to overcome.
With that said, the overall storyline was fabulous and kept me glued to the pages. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next in the battle between “good and evil.” I was emotionally invested in this story because of my history with this series. Although I didn’t have strong interest in Elizabeth and Niall as a couple, I did care for each individually and empathized with their internal turmoil as each struggled to do what s/he thought was best. But in the end, I wanted to see Gideon P. Amberdoyal, the evil archdirector of the Phaendir, get what he deserved. And that part of the story was riveting and fulfilling.
I have adored Ms. Bast’s Dark Magick series since I picked up the first story in an anthology. The series chronicles an alternate Earth where humans and an “evil” cult-like group, the Phaendir, have incarcerated all Fae-kind (fairies, goblins, elven, etc.). The fae are working to escape their centuries-old prison by collecting pieces of a magical “key” call the bosca fadbh and a powerful spell book called the Book of Bindings. The mythology alone keeps me coming back again and again. But it’s Ms. Bast’s ability to create intricate storylines, exciting adventures, and sexy romances which stir up powerful emotions within me that causes me to stay up into the wee hours of the night reading her books.
The Fae’s quest for freedom climaxes in the fourth (and final?) book, Midnight Enchantment. The Fae are in possession of all the pieces of the puzzle needed to break free. Unfortunately, there are two camps - the Summer Queen has two pieces and does not want the walls to fall. The Shadow Queen, aligned with the majority of the Fae, has one piece and the Book of Bindings. She is now faced with the task of hunting down the last two pieces and taking them from the Summer Queen using any means necessary. In addition, the Shadow Queen must prepare for battle against the humans and Phaendir, who are at the gates of Piefferburg and ready to attack.
Stuck in the middle of this conflict are Niall Quinn and Elizabeth Cely Saintjohn. Both are inherently good people, but on opposite sides of the fence and willing to go to extremes to help their causes. This means that Niall is willing to capture and torture Elizabeth to discover the location in which she hid the last two pieces of the bosca fadbh (at the direction of the Summer Queen), and she is willing to die to protect her secret, thereby saving her mother.
Overall this was a great conclusion to this wonderful series (although I would be first in line to read more if Ms. Bast continues forward!); however, I felt the primary couple, Niall and Elizabeth, were not on par with the couplings in this series’ earlier books. I never really felt a connection with Niall and Elizabeth. I adored them, but it was difficult for me to get past the fact that she was (mentally) tortured at the hands of Niall. In addition, they were always at such odds with each other - I believed Elizabeth when she constantly lamented that there was too much between them to overcome.
With that said, the overall storyline was fabulous and kept me glued to the pages. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next in the battle between “good and evil.” I was emotionally invested in this story because of my history with this series. Although I didn’t have strong interest in Elizabeth and Niall as a couple, I did care for each individually and empathized with their internal turmoil as each struggled to do what s/he thought was best. But in the end, I wanted to see Gideon P. Amberdoyal, the evil archdirector of the Phaendir, get what he deserved. And that part of the story was riveting and fulfilling.
February 7, 2012
Midnight Enchantment by Anya Bast
Paranormal Romance –Feb. 7th, 2012
4 1/2 stars
Midnight Enchantment blew me away! This star-crossed romance is filled with passion, deception and heartbreak.
Elizabeth is a rare asrai fae who can dissolve into water. She is tasked by the Summer Queen with the dangerous mission of keeping the last pieces of the powerful bosca fadbh hidden from the rest of the fae for whom the pieces means freedom. Although she is against the Summer Queen’s politics and does not like the fae trapped, she is motivated to keep the pieces hidden because if used they will result in the death of her beloved mother! Hunted, Elizabeth must keep ahead of those who want the bosca fadbh for their own ends. But she can’t stop thinking of one particular Fae, Niall. Although they work against each other, Nail and Elizabeth have a strong attraction to each other and when the impossible happens and Niall is able to capture her, their growing attraction muddles clear cut lines of loyalty.
I loved this story. Niall is devious, wily and so, so sexy. He thinks he will do whatever it takes to free the fae. But his unexpected attraction to Elizabeth is bringing up an unwanted conscience. He doesn’t want to torture her for the magical pieces. When he learns she is trying to protect her mother, Niall must make some hard decisions that may put him in peril. Elizabeth is brave and self sacrificing. She will protect her gentle mother at any costs even if she has to die to do so. She only wishes that Niall were not her enemy. Both of these characters have difficult choices and this results in a very intense chemistry that is off the charts. I wanted them to be together, badly! The conclusion is heartbreaking and tense as many factions are willing to do anything to get their hands on the bosca fadbh. This book is filled with backstabbing and hidden motives that keeps it at a brisk pace and the steamy tension between the two likeable characters is the icing on the cake.
Deception, tragic loss and sexy characters made this an extraordinary action filled conclusion that I could not stop reading.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance –Feb. 7th, 2012
4 1/2 stars
Midnight Enchantment blew me away! This star-crossed romance is filled with passion, deception and heartbreak.
Elizabeth is a rare asrai fae who can dissolve into water. She is tasked by the Summer Queen with the dangerous mission of keeping the last pieces of the powerful bosca fadbh hidden from the rest of the fae for whom the pieces means freedom. Although she is against the Summer Queen’s politics and does not like the fae trapped, she is motivated to keep the pieces hidden because if used they will result in the death of her beloved mother! Hunted, Elizabeth must keep ahead of those who want the bosca fadbh for their own ends. But she can’t stop thinking of one particular Fae, Niall. Although they work against each other, Nail and Elizabeth have a strong attraction to each other and when the impossible happens and Niall is able to capture her, their growing attraction muddles clear cut lines of loyalty.
I loved this story. Niall is devious, wily and so, so sexy. He thinks he will do whatever it takes to free the fae. But his unexpected attraction to Elizabeth is bringing up an unwanted conscience. He doesn’t want to torture her for the magical pieces. When he learns she is trying to protect her mother, Niall must make some hard decisions that may put him in peril. Elizabeth is brave and self sacrificing. She will protect her gentle mother at any costs even if she has to die to do so. She only wishes that Niall were not her enemy. Both of these characters have difficult choices and this results in a very intense chemistry that is off the charts. I wanted them to be together, badly! The conclusion is heartbreaking and tense as many factions are willing to do anything to get their hands on the bosca fadbh. This book is filled with backstabbing and hidden motives that keeps it at a brisk pace and the steamy tension between the two likeable characters is the icing on the cake.
Deception, tragic loss and sexy characters made this an extraordinary action filled conclusion that I could not stop reading.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
August 6, 2015
Today I bring you the 4th and final book in the Dark Magick series by Anya Bast. This was a good read and a great way to finish up the story...but at the same time leaving it open to always continue at another time with the way it ended.
This time the main story is focused on Niall, one of the highest ranking mages in the kingdom, searching for an asrai named Elizabeth. The reason for this is because we are in the home stretch, or final search, for the pieces of the bosca fadbh that the Summer Queen has given her to hide. The other reason is because it has the legend that the book can bring down the shields surrounding Piefferburg and let the fae finally be free once again in the world. But part of the reason she's so hard to catch is because she can change in to water an disappear in to the ground. This is what she kept on doing to him. Unfortunately at the same time for both of them, something else was developing, something unexpected that was tearing at them as well.
What makes it worse is that the Achdirector of the Pheandir, Gideon, is in the city working with the Summer Queen, who naturally doesn't want the walls to fall or she'll lose her kingdom. Gideon is the of course because he feels it is his job to keep them trapped and out of the public, thinking they will only cause harm and destruction of humanity. This all comes to a head during the final battle between the dark and rose towers. Summer Queen and Gideon against the Shadow Queen Aisllin and Shadow King Gabriel, who is also the leader of the Wild Hunt. This is the other reason some fae don't want the walls to fall because the wild hunt will finally take all the dead and "unacceptable" fae to where they belong.
In the end, the walls finally fall but not after some major destruction of the towers and the city with the fae fighting with the human military and the Phaeandir. This was a great read all the way to the end and a good finish which plenty of room to grow. I loved the series overall and would recommend it to everyone.
All my reviews are honest and are personal opinion only. Comments are welcome below. No derogatory or bashing allowed as those will be deleted. Constructive only.
This time the main story is focused on Niall, one of the highest ranking mages in the kingdom, searching for an asrai named Elizabeth. The reason for this is because we are in the home stretch, or final search, for the pieces of the bosca fadbh that the Summer Queen has given her to hide. The other reason is because it has the legend that the book can bring down the shields surrounding Piefferburg and let the fae finally be free once again in the world. But part of the reason she's so hard to catch is because she can change in to water an disappear in to the ground. This is what she kept on doing to him. Unfortunately at the same time for both of them, something else was developing, something unexpected that was tearing at them as well.
What makes it worse is that the Achdirector of the Pheandir, Gideon, is in the city working with the Summer Queen, who naturally doesn't want the walls to fall or she'll lose her kingdom. Gideon is the of course because he feels it is his job to keep them trapped and out of the public, thinking they will only cause harm and destruction of humanity. This all comes to a head during the final battle between the dark and rose towers. Summer Queen and Gideon against the Shadow Queen Aisllin and Shadow King Gabriel, who is also the leader of the Wild Hunt. This is the other reason some fae don't want the walls to fall because the wild hunt will finally take all the dead and "unacceptable" fae to where they belong.
In the end, the walls finally fall but not after some major destruction of the towers and the city with the fae fighting with the human military and the Phaeandir. This was a great read all the way to the end and a good finish which plenty of room to grow. I loved the series overall and would recommend it to everyone.
All my reviews are honest and are personal opinion only. Comments are welcome below. No derogatory or bashing allowed as those will be deleted. Constructive only.
December 30, 2012
Wow, what a blast.
I wouldn't read them out of order since they flow into each other. A great series, well paced, full of action, intrigue, sexual tension, passion and equally determined h&h’s. Aside from occasionally getting a bit bogged down in the world building and politics the Dark Magick series comprising a mere four novels (thank goodness) was a thoroughly absorbing read and I’m keen to check out other books by this author.
February 8, 2012
3.5 stars. This is the final book (4) in the excellent Dark Magic series by Anya Bast. The world of Fae, Seelie and Unseelie Courts, the evil Phaendir and the gormless humans has been a totally enjoyable ride for me, full of humour excitement and great characters and romance. The previous three books I gave 4 or 5 stars, but I was a little disappointed in this entry.
The book picks up with Niall on the hunt for the aphrai (like a water sprite) Elizabeth. She is hiding the last two pieces of the key to the Book of Bindings which is rumoured to be able to free the Fae from their imprisonment. The first part of the book chronicles their chase and their growing feelings for each other. In the last part of the book all the pieces are gathered together in Pfiefferburg, including the human army, the Summer Queen, the leader of the Phaendir and all our favourites from the Shadow Court.
It's a good story but for me the two MC's were the weakest in terms of chemistry. Elizabeth's reason for stealing the pieces of the key seem contrived and her character was inconsistent. Liam's role in the story seemed unecessary. I was shocked that the . What an open ending?? And where were the cast and crew of Faemous, the reality show, at the final battle scene? I loved them, so funny and clever, and they should have been there at the end!!
Anyway a three star read with an extra half star for a fantastic series.
The book picks up with Niall on the hunt for the aphrai (like a water sprite) Elizabeth. She is hiding the last two pieces of the key to the Book of Bindings which is rumoured to be able to free the Fae from their imprisonment. The first part of the book chronicles their chase and their growing feelings for each other. In the last part of the book all the pieces are gathered together in Pfiefferburg, including the human army, the Summer Queen, the leader of the Phaendir and all our favourites from the Shadow Court.
It's a good story but for me the two MC's were the weakest in terms of chemistry. Elizabeth's reason for stealing the pieces of the key seem contrived and her character was inconsistent. Liam's role in the story seemed unecessary. I was shocked that the . What an open ending?? And where were the cast and crew of Faemous, the reality show, at the final battle scene? I loved them, so funny and clever, and they should have been there at the end!!
Anyway a three star read with an extra half star for a fantastic series.
September 12, 2012
Anya Bast is a favorite of mine in just about any style she writes, but I really love this series. Fae series are often very political and full of so much intrigue thay the story can be very hard to follow, but this series doesn't have that problem. The characters are clear, intense and solid throughout and the plot line is strong and complex without being ridiculously over the top. There is definitely political stuff going on (isn't that necessary when you have the Seelie and Unseelie courts "battling it out" over anything?), but the plot is clear and it isn't too difficult to figure out who is one which side most of the time.
This book is the last in the series (Bast seems to like 4 book series, which seems to work for her). The love story portion of the book was well done and is the main focus of the book, but the plot line for the series isalso very prevelent and the ending of the book wraps up everything it needs to in a way that makes the ending enjoyable, believable and not overly rushed. There is even the option to continue the series in the future (immediate or distant - either could be done) if Bast so chooses.
I sometimes have trouble recommending fae based books because they get to be "too much" pretty quickly for a lot of people, but I recommend this series without hestitation to anyone who likes a good romance with intrigue, paranormal aspects/creatures, and a strong overarching plot line that drives the story and ties the books together.
This book is the last in the series (Bast seems to like 4 book series, which seems to work for her). The love story portion of the book was well done and is the main focus of the book, but the plot line for the series isalso very prevelent and the ending of the book wraps up everything it needs to in a way that makes the ending enjoyable, believable and not overly rushed. There is even the option to continue the series in the future (immediate or distant - either could be done) if Bast so chooses.
I sometimes have trouble recommending fae based books because they get to be "too much" pretty quickly for a lot of people, but I recommend this series without hestitation to anyone who likes a good romance with intrigue, paranormal aspects/creatures, and a strong overarching plot line that drives the story and ties the books together.
February 8, 2012
My thoughts:
* Sad to see this series end... at least I think it's ending, haven't seen any info on any new releases in this series. At least the story arc is finished.
* Really enjoyed this book and didn't understand why people were giving it only three stars and saying they didn't care for Elizabeth... until the last sixty pages for so (in ebook version), then I completely understood as I wanted to beat the stupid b*tch down for being so obtuse.
* I had a thought while reading this one that I read entirely too many vampire and shapeshifter romances and not enough books with people who have cool names like: Keiran Aindreas Cairbre Aimhrea. I think I need to encorporate more Fae romance into my reading.
* Niall was a bit whipped in this book, okay, okay, more than a bit.
* Gabriel Cionaodh Marcus Mac Braire, Emmaline Siobhan Keara Gallagher... see, cool ass names.
* I'm still wavering over whether to give this three or four stars. I didn't enjoy the couple as much in this installment, but overall this series has been very under rated in my opinion. Overall I would recommend this series to anyone looking for a great pnr that's not like every other pnr out there. Great world building, wonderful story arc and awesome characters.
* Sad to see this series end... at least I think it's ending, haven't seen any info on any new releases in this series. At least the story arc is finished.
* Really enjoyed this book and didn't understand why people were giving it only three stars and saying they didn't care for Elizabeth... until the last sixty pages for so (in ebook version), then I completely understood as I wanted to beat the stupid b*tch down for being so obtuse.
* I had a thought while reading this one that I read entirely too many vampire and shapeshifter romances and not enough books with people who have cool names like: Keiran Aindreas Cairbre Aimhrea. I think I need to encorporate more Fae romance into my reading.
* Niall was a bit whipped in this book, okay, okay, more than a bit.
* Gabriel Cionaodh Marcus Mac Braire, Emmaline Siobhan Keara Gallagher... see, cool ass names.
* I'm still wavering over whether to give this three or four stars. I didn't enjoy the couple as much in this installment, but overall this series has been very under rated in my opinion. Overall I would recommend this series to anyone looking for a great pnr that's not like every other pnr out there. Great world building, wonderful story arc and awesome characters.
November 5, 2013
Midnight Enchantment being the last installment will practically blow you away. There will be action, hide and seek, humor, deaths, tears, happiness and freedom. The two main characters are Elizabeth and Niall.
Elizabeth is a water fae that can turn into water, grow fruits, vegetables, and protect fiercely the ones she loves. She’s also, for her own reasons, hiding the two most important pieces for the freedom of her kind.
Niall is a mage, a powerful one, whose task will turn difficult with each path he decides to go for; his task is locating the asrai (water fae, our Elizabeth), catching her, interrogate her, get the pieces of bosca fadbh from HER, get to the Queen, destroy the imprisoning walls separating them from the human wold.
It seems an easy-speedy-task, but Niall’s sense of duty, even, will be put to the test when his desire to clash the walls and getting the woman collides. It will be full of everything, every character will be there, everyone will fight — you will even catch yourself stalling the reading just because the climax has come in full force and you simply want it to last. No pun intended.
For the full review and snapshots click here
Elizabeth is a water fae that can turn into water, grow fruits, vegetables, and protect fiercely the ones she loves. She’s also, for her own reasons, hiding the two most important pieces for the freedom of her kind.
Niall is a mage, a powerful one, whose task will turn difficult with each path he decides to go for; his task is locating the asrai (water fae, our Elizabeth), catching her, interrogate her, get the pieces of bosca fadbh from HER, get to the Queen, destroy the imprisoning walls separating them from the human wold.
It seems an easy-speedy-task, but Niall’s sense of duty, even, will be put to the test when his desire to clash the walls and getting the woman collides. It will be full of everything, every character will be there, everyone will fight — you will even catch yourself stalling the reading just because the climax has come in full force and you simply want it to last. No pun intended.
For the full review and snapshots click here
February 7, 2012
Bast is a kick-butt writer, but in this one the characters lacked something. I wanted to love Niall the way I did his brother, but he seemed a little blah to me. Elizabeth had much more substance and she made me like the story. I usually love this author's work, but this latest was okay.
If you haven't read the other novels in this series you will definitely be lost because this one starts from where the last one left off. Elizabeth is charged by the itchy-bitchy Summer Queen to hide the two missing pieces of the bosca fadbh . Niall is charged by his queen, the Shadow Queen, to track down Elizabeth and get them by any means necessary- the pieces are needed to release the fae from the city of Piefferburg, which they've been locked in for centuries by the evil Phaendir.
The mythology is what truly drew me to this series and it's a wonderful world that has me wishing for no ending to it, but this one had a finality to it. MAJOR SPOILER- . It's a battle of wits in this novel that is sometimes dry, but the ending certainly makes up for it! :P
If you haven't read the other novels in this series you will definitely be lost because this one starts from where the last one left off. Elizabeth is charged by the itchy-bitchy Summer Queen to hide the two missing pieces of the bosca fadbh . Niall is charged by his queen, the Shadow Queen, to track down Elizabeth and get them by any means necessary- the pieces are needed to release the fae from the city of Piefferburg, which they've been locked in for centuries by the evil Phaendir.
The mythology is what truly drew me to this series and it's a wonderful world that has me wishing for no ending to it, but this one had a finality to it. MAJOR SPOILER- . It's a battle of wits in this novel that is sometimes dry, but the ending certainly makes up for it! :P
March 16, 2012
My thoughts on this particular book are a bit disappointed...I am a fan of Ms. Bast's work and this looked to be a great read...The cover art is absolutely stunning and after reading the summary of what the story was about, I was excited to read it ...So I settled in and was ready to go on a fantastic journey and then it just all kind of fell flat for me...Interesting premise, loved the world building, however, couldn't get into either of the leads, both the male and female. I found mysellf more enthralled with secondary characters i.e. the fairy queens, more so that the main leads...Maybe this is just an off reading year for me I don't know...I'm still waiting for something to really wow me....Would I read another book by Anya Bast, of course, just didn't love this on as much as I thought that I would...Would I recommend it, sure if you are a fan of her work or a die hard paranormal/fantastical romance fan.
March 29, 2012
I love Anya Bast! With that off my chest, I adore her Dark Magic series. Every book in the series to this point has been great and this one, Midnight Enchantment, fits right in with the rest. I love that she has us cheering for the Dark Fae even though they may have the more ruthless and less human characteristics. This reminds me of the Merry Gentry series with more plot and less sex, sex, sex. Don’t get me wrong, Ms. Bast writes some spectacular and steamy sex scenes and I really enjoy the MG series with the excess sex (because there’s always a good time and place for that) but I’ve found that Ms. Bast has such a great middle ground between steaming up the pages and providing a satisfying and intriguing plot to pull the story along. Big changes in Piefferburg in this story that will hopefully lead in to more from the series. Either way, I’m a big fan of Ms. Bast and can’t wait to read what comes next!
November 26, 2013
I loved this story. Niall is devious, wily and so, so sexy. He thinks he will do whatever it takes to free the fae. But his unexpected attraction to Elizabeth is bringing up an unwanted conscience. He doesn't want to torture her for the magical pieces. When he learns she is trying to protect her mother, Niall must make some hard decisions that may put him in peril. Elizabeth is brave and self sacrificing. She will protect her gentle mother at any costs even if she has to die to do so. She only wishes that Niall were not her enemy. Both of these characters have difficult choices and this results in a very intense chemistry that is off the charts. I wanted them to be together, badly! The conclusion is heartbreaking and tense as many factions are willing to do anything to get their hands on the bosca fadbh. This book is filled with backstabbing and hidden motives that keeps it at a brisk pace and the steamy tension between the two likeable characters is the icing on the cake
March 1, 2012
This book seems like it brings the series to an end and it feels anti-climatic. It seemed to take me forever to read, I kept putting it down and even read 2 others after I started this one.
I really liked Elizabeth. She is the scourge of the fae, or so it seems. When you learn her reasons why she is hiding what everyone else needs you understand and wonder what you would do. Once that Niall enters the picture and starts to torture Elizabeth you realize just how strong her convictions were. I had a hard time buying into the romance part. It seemed like Niall was attracted to her beauty and Elizabeth was into the first man that was interested in her.
Finally things happen where the bosca fadbh end up in the Shadow Queen's hands. The final big battle comes to a head and it is a fizzle. Things happen about the way that you expect them to.
I really liked Elizabeth. She is the scourge of the fae, or so it seems. When you learn her reasons why she is hiding what everyone else needs you understand and wonder what you would do. Once that Niall enters the picture and starts to torture Elizabeth you realize just how strong her convictions were. I had a hard time buying into the romance part. It seemed like Niall was attracted to her beauty and Elizabeth was into the first man that was interested in her.
Finally things happen where the bosca fadbh end up in the Shadow Queen's hands. The final big battle comes to a head and it is a fizzle. Things happen about the way that you expect them to.
July 31, 2016
Nice conclusion and pairing. The ending felt a little abrupt, but other than that, I really enjoyed this book. I was a little sad that we didn't get a little more of the Niall humor I love (he said some funny things, but mostly he was serious), but the plot was great and I liked how everything got tied up.
The only thing I have to say, in terms of the whole series, is that sometimes it felt a little weird, how the fae were isolated in Piefferburg, it felt as if they were in, I don't know, 18th century, when it was clearly 21st and the characters were blurting out references left and right, even though there wasn't even one mention of anyone having a tv or a computer and the only technology they clearly had were cars. So that's probably the only complaint I have about this series as a whole.
The only thing I have to say, in terms of the whole series, is that sometimes it felt a little weird, how the fae were isolated in Piefferburg, it felt as if they were in, I don't know, 18th century, when it was clearly 21st and the characters were blurting out references left and right, even though there wasn't even one mention of anyone having a tv or a computer and the only technology they clearly had were cars. So that's probably the only complaint I have about this series as a whole.
August 27, 2013
I liked this book but I also feel the pace was really slow and something was lacking. For me this series has steadily went downhill. I don't know how to explain it. I usually read one book every two to three days. It took me close to three weeks to finish this book. Maybe I am just tired f reading and needed a break or maybe this book is just that bad. I am going to attempt another book and if I take forever reading this one then I will take the blame for this review. I am nothing if not honest. If t is just a me thing I will 're post this review. If you don't see a new review for this book in say two weeks then it's just the book. I swear I thought of never reading again while trying to get through this book.
July 7, 2012
My favourite of the whole series. The storyline definitely heats up, being the final book of the series. It was a lot more engaging and something was always happening, unlike the previous books which had a lot of intermissions to fill in the romance aspect.
And I definitely liked Elizabeth's character, and not simply because she had red hair and could turn into water (the little mermaid was one of favourite movies as a child) but she was the most interesting of the four, with a cheeky and mysterious personality. I wish more time was spend on Niall though, I felt a lot about his character was never explored enough so I had a hard time picturing him in my mind.
But overall definitely a great end to the series.
And I definitely liked Elizabeth's character, and not simply because she had red hair and could turn into water (the little mermaid was one of favourite movies as a child) but she was the most interesting of the four, with a cheeky and mysterious personality. I wish more time was spend on Niall though, I felt a lot about his character was never explored enough so I had a hard time picturing him in my mind.
But overall definitely a great end to the series.
June 6, 2012
I hate the female lead a little in the end for her very very late redemption. The thing I most love in the first book is when Gabriel accepted he couldn't sacrifice the entire race for one woman even if she is the It didn't make me think his love is lesser in someway for this but respected and felt more the depth of his sacrifice. In the end the female love interest in this book just came out selfish to me. I get her reasons but the I've hoped she will do the right thing. Her too late redemption came a little too late in my opinion. It's just the one thing that bothered my most in this book but the rest is a great. No unresolved issue left and it was a very nice end for the series.
January 10, 2014
I'm not sure if this is the last book in the series, but the way it ended, leads me to believe that it probably is the last book. I'm a little sad about that.
I don't particularly know why I liked this Fae series. It was really dark, the characters and storyline were complex and complicated. Some of the words and names were hard to decipher at times. Even with all that, I found it fascinating, entertaining and I spend a lot of time trying to figure out what would happen next.
A part of the story didn't pan out like I thought it might and I was a bit surprised and a little sad about that. But it's still a great read, and if it is the end of the series, I am quite satisfied.
I don't particularly know why I liked this Fae series. It was really dark, the characters and storyline were complex and complicated. Some of the words and names were hard to decipher at times. Even with all that, I found it fascinating, entertaining and I spend a lot of time trying to figure out what would happen next.
A part of the story didn't pan out like I thought it might and I was a bit surprised and a little sad about that. But it's still a great read, and if it is the end of the series, I am quite satisfied.
February 27, 2012
To tell you the truth I started reading this book when I was kind of sick of reading, especially sick of reading of paranormal romances and that's why it took me so long to finish it. It didn't blow my mind, but I liked it.
Finally some serious ass-kicking of the Phaendir and Summer Queen and happily-ever-after for our favorite couples. I think this is the last book in the series, haven't checked yet, but it felt like it was the last one and I'm glad I read these books. Definitely one of the good ones, packed with action, interesting plot(fairies,goblins,witches etc.)and a hot romance. Anya Bast never disappoints.
Finally some serious ass-kicking of the Phaendir and Summer Queen and happily-ever-after for our favorite couples. I think this is the last book in the series, haven't checked yet, but it felt like it was the last one and I'm glad I read these books. Definitely one of the good ones, packed with action, interesting plot(fairies,goblins,witches etc.)and a hot romance. Anya Bast never disappoints.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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