What do you think?
Rate this book
Colbana Files #2
Night Blade
Kit Colbana is always biting off more than she can chew. She has a knack for finding trouble. This time, though, trouble finds her. Someone from her past drops a case into her lap that she just can’t refuse…literally.
People on the Council are dying left and right and she’s been requested to investigate the deaths. The number one suspect? Her lover, Damon. If she doesn’t clear his name, he gets a death sentence. Even if she succeeds? They still might try to execute him. Oh, and she’s not allowed to tell him about the case, either.
The stakes are high this time around, higher than they’ve ever been. Kit may be forced to pay the ultimate price to save her lover’s life… a price that could destroy her and everything she loves.
People on the Council are dying left and right and she’s been requested to investigate the deaths. The number one suspect? Her lover, Damon. If she doesn’t clear his name, he gets a death sentence. Even if she succeeds? They still might try to execute him. Oh, and she’s not allowed to tell him about the case, either.
The stakes are high this time around, higher than they’ve ever been. Kit may be forced to pay the ultimate price to save her lover’s life… a price that could destroy her and everything she loves.
264 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2013
176 people are currently reading
1748 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Daniels
39 books643 followersI read, I write and you can find more about me here at my other author name...
Shiloh Walker
My professional bio:
J.C. Daniels is the alter ego of author Shiloh Walker. J.C./Shiloh has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious works of fiction. She loves reading and writing just about every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest. She writes urban fantasy, romantic suspense and paranormal romance, among other things.
Shiloh Walker
My professional bio:
J.C. Daniels is the alter ego of author Shiloh Walker. J.C./Shiloh has been writing since she was a kid. She fell in love with vampires with the book Bunnicula and has worked her way up to the more...ah...serious works of fiction. She loves reading and writing just about every kind of romance. Once upon a time she worked as a nurse, but now she writes full time and lives with her family in the Midwest. She writes urban fantasy, romantic suspense and paranormal romance, among other things.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
October 12, 2016
This book was shaping up to be in my 1-star pile, also known as "garage sale fodder" until close to the end. I was disappointed in how weak Kit was, I was disappointed in her having a relationship with a guy who was a proven douche, I was disappointed in the slow-moving storyline. Basically I spent most of my time disappointed - much like my parents during my childhood. But, that's a story for another day....let's just say that I was the friend who got everyone to jump off the bridge... (I know, you're shocked)
Let's just say that I agreed with this guy's opinion of Kit:
"You're too stupid to be alive"
Well said, evil minion. Well said.
Even better is Kit's follow-up thought:
It wasn't the first time I heard that.
But, then something horrible happens. Well, a few horrible things. Many many horrible things. And, I found myself feeling sorry for Kit. I have a heart! Somewhere in the chestal region. I'm pretty sure.
Dammit! I knew that would happen!
So, by the end of the book, I was covered with feels and now I have to read the next one. Thanks, Obama!
Let's just say that I agreed with this guy's opinion of Kit:
"You're too stupid to be alive"
Well said, evil minion. Well said.
Even better is Kit's follow-up thought:
It wasn't the first time I heard that.
But, then something horrible happens. Well, a few horrible things. Many many horrible things. And, I found myself feeling sorry for Kit. I have a heart! Somewhere in the chestal region. I'm pretty sure.
Dammit! I knew that would happen!
So, by the end of the book, I was covered with feels and now I have to read the next one. Thanks, Obama!
March 4, 2013
I knew something was up when I read the Dedication on this book:
I saw this and thought to myself, "Dammit. Kit and Damon are going to break up." I dreaded it. I steeled myself for it. What I fool I was. Suffice it to say, Shiloh Walker and I have a vastly different understanding of the words "rocky road."
Let's back up. As the story begins, Kit and Damon are going strong, though they are both hard at work. Damon is cleaning house in his pack, getting rid of the crazies who thrived under the old Alpha. And Kit is solving cases for her investigative firm. Things are actually kind of... good.... until Kit gets a call from her ex-boyfriend Justin. The witch works for a powerful branch of law enforcement that is investigating Damon. They believe he is behind some unauthorized kills and if Kit can't prove he didn't do it, he'll be slated for execution. To make matters worse, Justin puts a spell on her that prevents her from talking about the case. Kit has to work against the clock to clear the man she is falling in love with, while keeping her mission a secret.
I really, really like Kit. She is tough, but she is also so very vulnerable. She endured so much as a child, and it's clear we don't even know the whole story. Entirely new atrocities are hinted at. And the memories still plague her. Still terrify her. But she soldiers on. There is something like steel at her core. She will not break. Her past makes her growing love for Damon even more poignant. She's always been afraid to love anything, for fear of losing it. Damon shows himself worthy of her and makes me fall for him as she does the same. The characters just strike such a chord.
And then it all goes to shit. Not the book. But everything in Kit's life.
I won't spoil it. But I will tell you that dedication should have come with flashing yellow lights and perhaps a skull and crossbones. This book gutted me. Completely and utterly. I cried. I shook my head. I talked to myself. And I cried some more. As I write this, I still feel sucker punched and slightly hollow.
It was amazing, horrible, terrible, wrenching, and utterly consuming. Worth reading, to be sure. But have your Kleenex ready and a support group standing by. You're gonna need it.
Rating: A-
*ARC provided by author for review
Thanks to everybody who encouraged me to continue with Kit's story. Be warned... she's got a rocky road ahead of her. But I hope it's worth it in the end.
I saw this and thought to myself, "Dammit. Kit and Damon are going to break up." I dreaded it. I steeled myself for it. What I fool I was. Suffice it to say, Shiloh Walker and I have a vastly different understanding of the words "rocky road."
Let's back up. As the story begins, Kit and Damon are going strong, though they are both hard at work. Damon is cleaning house in his pack, getting rid of the crazies who thrived under the old Alpha. And Kit is solving cases for her investigative firm. Things are actually kind of... good.... until Kit gets a call from her ex-boyfriend Justin. The witch works for a powerful branch of law enforcement that is investigating Damon. They believe he is behind some unauthorized kills and if Kit can't prove he didn't do it, he'll be slated for execution. To make matters worse, Justin puts a spell on her that prevents her from talking about the case. Kit has to work against the clock to clear the man she is falling in love with, while keeping her mission a secret.
I really, really like Kit. She is tough, but she is also so very vulnerable. She endured so much as a child, and it's clear we don't even know the whole story. Entirely new atrocities are hinted at. And the memories still plague her. Still terrify her. But she soldiers on. There is something like steel at her core. She will not break. Her past makes her growing love for Damon even more poignant. She's always been afraid to love anything, for fear of losing it. Damon shows himself worthy of her and makes me fall for him as she does the same. The characters just strike such a chord.
And then it all goes to shit. Not the book. But everything in Kit's life.
I won't spoil it. But I will tell you that dedication should have come with flashing yellow lights and perhaps a skull and crossbones. This book gutted me. Completely and utterly. I cried. I shook my head. I talked to myself. And I cried some more. As I write this, I still feel sucker punched and slightly hollow.
It was amazing, horrible, terrible, wrenching, and utterly consuming. Worth reading, to be sure. But have your Kleenex ready and a support group standing by. You're gonna need it.
Rating: A-
*ARC provided by author for review
January 17, 2022
What a mind screw🤯, but in a really good I can't put this book down even for a minute kind of way😆
This book has taken this series to another level for me.
Kit is finally feeling like she is going to have some peace in her life, things are going well, but not to well , her new relationship is turning out to be everything she could have hoped for. That is until, an old flame comes into her office, and pretty much turns everything good she has been slowly building, up side down. Things are about to go side ways in the worst possible way and lives are on the line, with enemies on all sides.
Epic series loving it 🥰
Happy Reading 📚📙📘📗📘📚📘📕📔📗📚📚📚📙📚📘📗📘📚📖
This book has taken this series to another level for me.
Kit is finally feeling like she is going to have some peace in her life, things are going well, but not to well , her new relationship is turning out to be everything she could have hoped for. That is until, an old flame comes into her office, and pretty much turns everything good she has been slowly building, up side down. Things are about to go side ways in the worst possible way and lives are on the line, with enemies on all sides.
Epic series loving it 🥰
Happy Reading 📚📙📘📗📘📚📘📕📔📗📚📚📚📙📚📘📗📘📚📖
February 15, 2013
Never, never, has this image been more appropriate than it is right now.
Bloody hell.
5 Stars, full review to follow.
Bloody hell.
5 Stars, full review to follow.
March 17, 2013
2.5 stars - Spoilers
I didn't like the first book all that much but it must have done something right since I got this as soon as it came out.
Random notes/thoughts
-The plot was fairly entertaining - Kit is forced to help her ex boyfriend, Justin, on a case that involves her current boyfriend and twu wuv, Damon.
Most of the story consisted of Kit fawning over Damon, Kit being pissed at various people, Kit getting beaten up and tortured, Kit recovering from injuries and near death experiences and Kit moaning about her evul grandmother. All good stuff. Well, not all… But some of it was fun to read about.
-I kind of like Kit even though she's annoying and cliched. I did get irritated with her snarling at everyone.
-Kit gets called a bitch, baby girl, kitty-kitty, sugar, darling and probably a few other names I've not mentioned. All the demeaning nicknames pissed me off. Apparently, for a male character to come across as angry, sexy and dominant he needs to call female characters degrading names. Nice.
-I hate Damon. He's a controlling, hypocritical douche.
He's also a huge Gary Stu - he's the strongest, bestest and sexiest guy ever. Ugh.
Why do authors think making a hero the most dangerous and deadliest guy is the same as giving him a personality? It isn't. I was sick of every character being scared of Damon and I was sick of everyone saying how strong he was. The more characters that said he was awesome, the more lame he became.
-I was bored of all the posturing that went on. It took up most of the book.
-I really dislike Kit and Damon's relationship. Damon was abusive towards Kit in the first book… but that was pretty much forgotten about in this one… Well, Kit mentioned that Damon hurt her but it was like as if she was fondly reminiscing about it. Ugh.
I don't know why Kit always argues with Damon about him being overly protective… She knew what he was like when she started a relationship with him. So why does she act offended and annoyed when he acts possessive? It just makes me think that she's not as independent as she thinks. Why is she with him when he wants to control and suffocate her? I think deep down she wants to be controlled and wants to be dependent on a big strong man. And maybe Damon only likes her because she puts up some token resistance to his controlling behaviour and he gets off on that because he likes a challenge. Yea, maybe they both suit each other.
-When Kit is recovering from a serious attack and is in pain… that bastard, Damon, bites her neck painfully so he can 'mark his territory'. Ugh… He wasn't man enough to let her be her own woman. Kit who claims to be strong and independent let Damon bite her… Why? Because she likes being Damon's property.
-I get it, Kit likes her sword. I don't need to be told a thousand bloody times.
-Kit spends most of her time getting beaten up in fights and recovering from injuries yet she still claims to be badarse. I can't take her 'I'm a badarse' attitude seriously when it's clear that she's anything but a badarse.
-Damon dumping Kit was fucked up. He kept talking about trust and shit yet he never trusted her. He didn't trust her to do her job. He didn't trust that she would tell him everything once her job would be finished. He didn't trust her enough to wait 2 measly hours before she explained everything. He was the one that had no faith or trust in her. He didn't care about her enough to wait two fucking hours. What a dick.
He never told her what he was doing when he went off killing people. He never told her that her evul grandma was looking for her. Nope, he didn't respect her or care about her enough to tell her the truth. Yet, he wanted to know about her job when she specifically told him it was confidential. What a weak, pathetic, whiny dick. There's nothing alpha, dominant or strong about him — he has hissy fits when things don't go his way, he dumps his mate for no good reasons when he's meant to protect and care for her and he acts like a child whenever Kit spends time with another guy. He's an insecure, whiny, pathetic loser.
I'm guessing Kit will just become a doormat in the next book and she'll take Damon back even though he hurt her so much. She just won't be able to resist all that sexiness. Realistically, someone like her wouldn't trust him again… She opened up to him and believed in their relationship and he just walked away when they hit a little bit of a rough patch. Why would she trust him again when he dumped her so easily? She'd always fear that he'd walk away anytime they hit a rough patch. And considering he fucked her over for no reason in this, he'd most likely keep fucking her over. But since this is UF and the heroine can only have one real love interest, Kit will no doubt be a pathetic loser and take him back even after he treated her like shit. That's just the way it is in UF - heroines are weak doormats that forgive everything. There's only a few UF series where the heroines are genuinely strong and admirable.
-There were no decent female characters that were Kit's age. There were either too evul, too shallow, too jealous or too stupid. Couldn't Kit have one close female friend that was her own age? Why do they all have to be so vile? So Kit can look better in comparison?
-I liked the evul grandma story — it was probably my most favourite part. I'm actually looking forward to Kit's grandma making an appearance, I really want Kit to destroy her.
All in all, not very good. Kit is the only character that's mildly interesting.
I didn't like the first book all that much but it must have done something right since I got this as soon as it came out.
Random notes/thoughts
-The plot was fairly entertaining - Kit is forced to help her ex boyfriend, Justin, on a case that involves her current boyfriend and twu wuv, Damon.
Most of the story consisted of Kit fawning over Damon, Kit being pissed at various people, Kit getting beaten up and tortured, Kit recovering from injuries and near death experiences and Kit moaning about her evul grandmother. All good stuff. Well, not all… But some of it was fun to read about.
-I kind of like Kit even though she's annoying and cliched. I did get irritated with her snarling at everyone.
-Kit gets called a bitch, baby girl, kitty-kitty, sugar, darling and probably a few other names I've not mentioned. All the demeaning nicknames pissed me off. Apparently, for a male character to come across as angry, sexy and dominant he needs to call female characters degrading names. Nice.
-I hate Damon. He's a controlling, hypocritical douche.
He's also a huge Gary Stu - he's the strongest, bestest and sexiest guy ever. Ugh.
Why do authors think making a hero the most dangerous and deadliest guy is the same as giving him a personality? It isn't. I was sick of every character being scared of Damon and I was sick of everyone saying how strong he was. The more characters that said he was awesome, the more lame he became.
-I was bored of all the posturing that went on. It took up most of the book.
-I really dislike Kit and Damon's relationship. Damon was abusive towards Kit in the first book… but that was pretty much forgotten about in this one… Well, Kit mentioned that Damon hurt her but it was like as if she was fondly reminiscing about it. Ugh.
I don't know why Kit always argues with Damon about him being overly protective… She knew what he was like when she started a relationship with him. So why does she act offended and annoyed when he acts possessive? It just makes me think that she's not as independent as she thinks. Why is she with him when he wants to control and suffocate her? I think deep down she wants to be controlled and wants to be dependent on a big strong man. And maybe Damon only likes her because she puts up some token resistance to his controlling behaviour and he gets off on that because he likes a challenge. Yea, maybe they both suit each other.
-When Kit is recovering from a serious attack and is in pain… that bastard, Damon, bites her neck painfully so he can 'mark his territory'. Ugh… He wasn't man enough to let her be her own woman. Kit who claims to be strong and independent let Damon bite her… Why? Because she likes being Damon's property.
-I get it, Kit likes her sword. I don't need to be told a thousand bloody times.
-Kit spends most of her time getting beaten up in fights and recovering from injuries yet she still claims to be badarse. I can't take her 'I'm a badarse' attitude seriously when it's clear that she's anything but a badarse.
-Damon dumping Kit was fucked up. He kept talking about trust and shit yet he never trusted her. He didn't trust her to do her job. He didn't trust that she would tell him everything once her job would be finished. He didn't trust her enough to wait 2 measly hours before she explained everything. He was the one that had no faith or trust in her. He didn't care about her enough to wait two fucking hours. What a dick.
He never told her what he was doing when he went off killing people. He never told her that her evul grandma was looking for her. Nope, he didn't respect her or care about her enough to tell her the truth. Yet, he wanted to know about her job when she specifically told him it was confidential. What a weak, pathetic, whiny dick. There's nothing alpha, dominant or strong about him — he has hissy fits when things don't go his way, he dumps his mate for no good reasons when he's meant to protect and care for her and he acts like a child whenever Kit spends time with another guy. He's an insecure, whiny, pathetic loser.
I'm guessing Kit will just become a doormat in the next book and she'll take Damon back even though he hurt her so much. She just won't be able to resist all that sexiness. Realistically, someone like her wouldn't trust him again… She opened up to him and believed in their relationship and he just walked away when they hit a little bit of a rough patch. Why would she trust him again when he dumped her so easily? She'd always fear that he'd walk away anytime they hit a rough patch. And considering he fucked her over for no reason in this, he'd most likely keep fucking her over. But since this is UF and the heroine can only have one real love interest, Kit will no doubt be a pathetic loser and take him back even after he treated her like shit. That's just the way it is in UF - heroines are weak doormats that forgive everything. There's only a few UF series where the heroines are genuinely strong and admirable.
-There were no decent female characters that were Kit's age. There were either too evul, too shallow, too jealous or too stupid. Couldn't Kit have one close female friend that was her own age? Why do they all have to be so vile? So Kit can look better in comparison?
-I liked the evul grandma story — it was probably my most favourite part. I'm actually looking forward to Kit's grandma making an appearance, I really want Kit to destroy her.
All in all, not very good. Kit is the only character that's mildly interesting.
February 9, 2013
I was very blessed to beta this book and all I will say is Night Blade BLOWS Blade Song out of the water. ZOMG!!! More to come closer to release.
Edit: 2/8/2013
Night Blade is the second installment in J.C. Daniels deliciously robust and addictive urban fantasy series, The Colbana Files. Fans of Patrica Briggs and Ilona Andrews will devour this series with it's nail biting action, engaging dialogue, and impressive cast of characters who will claw their way into your heart. The series revolves around half human/half Aneira PI, Kit Colbana.
At the end of Blade Song, Kit made friends and enemies when she bonded with the new cat alpha, Damon Lee, and cements her ties with the witches. Night Blade picks up with Kat and Damon are now mated but while Damon wants to tell the world, Kit wants to keep it under wraps while he cleans up his pack. When members of the Assembly turn up dead, Kit is approached by an old friend and ex who informs her that eyes are looking at Damon as the cause for the killings. He solicits her help in solving the crimes and proving Damon's innocence, but Kit pays a high price. She must be magically bound; unable to tell anyone what she is doing. As Kit's investigation takes her deeper down a path of no return, her relationship with Damon begins to suffer and a old enemy rears it's ugly head, determined to being Kit to heel in a manner that will leave readers stunned.
I adore this series. Heavily character driven with deceptively mild world building, I find the balance of power and vulnerability to be an addictive draw. Ms. Daniels is not afraid to extract her pound of flesh from her characters and situations arise that will leave you wondering what more will she demand. Heavy plot action and ripe tension is tempered with snarky humor and everyday life; allowing you a respite from it's heavy undertones. The story reads fast as we are sucked into a vortex of deception, betrayal, sorrow, and overwhelming horror.
Only after we reach the end, battered and bruised from our journey, does Ms. Daniels offer us a brief glimpse of hope.
If your looking for a powerful urban fantasy that promises an exciting read but delivers so much more then look no further then the Colbana Files.
Edit: 2/8/2013
Night Blade is the second installment in J.C. Daniels deliciously robust and addictive urban fantasy series, The Colbana Files. Fans of Patrica Briggs and Ilona Andrews will devour this series with it's nail biting action, engaging dialogue, and impressive cast of characters who will claw their way into your heart. The series revolves around half human/half Aneira PI, Kit Colbana.
At the end of Blade Song, Kit made friends and enemies when she bonded with the new cat alpha, Damon Lee, and cements her ties with the witches. Night Blade picks up with Kat and Damon are now mated but while Damon wants to tell the world, Kit wants to keep it under wraps while he cleans up his pack. When members of the Assembly turn up dead, Kit is approached by an old friend and ex who informs her that eyes are looking at Damon as the cause for the killings. He solicits her help in solving the crimes and proving Damon's innocence, but Kit pays a high price. She must be magically bound; unable to tell anyone what she is doing. As Kit's investigation takes her deeper down a path of no return, her relationship with Damon begins to suffer and a old enemy rears it's ugly head, determined to being Kit to heel in a manner that will leave readers stunned.
I adore this series. Heavily character driven with deceptively mild world building, I find the balance of power and vulnerability to be an addictive draw. Ms. Daniels is not afraid to extract her pound of flesh from her characters and situations arise that will leave you wondering what more will she demand. Heavy plot action and ripe tension is tempered with snarky humor and everyday life; allowing you a respite from it's heavy undertones. The story reads fast as we are sucked into a vortex of deception, betrayal, sorrow, and overwhelming horror.
Only after we reach the end, battered and bruised from our journey, does Ms. Daniels offer us a brief glimpse of hope.
If your looking for a powerful urban fantasy that promises an exciting read but delivers so much more then look no further then the Colbana Files.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2017
OMG! That ending!
The plot thickens! Have to see what's next!
The plot thickens! Have to see what's next!
February 11, 2013
J.C. Daniels presents readers with book two in the Colbana Files series with NIGHT BLADE. Be warned, Daniels doesn't hold back. If you loved the first book in the series, NIGHT BLADE completely blows it out of the waters. In this case, the sequel hits harder. It is sure to have readers stepping back with shock and heartbreak.
In just over 200 pages, Daniels manages to take readers by surprise and show them that she isn't afraid to make hard hits. NIGHT BLADE is packed to the brim with action and angst. The last few chapters of the book utterly gutted me and I'm sure readers will share the same rollercoaster ride of emotions I endured while reading it.
NIGHT BLADE is spectacular in its pacing and plotting. Intense emotions will be rolling through the reader and if that's any indication of how the rest of the series will progress, then I think it's safe to say that there is a new voice in Urban Fantasy that is as hard-hitting and adventurous as some of the genre's classic favorites. This voice belongs to J.C. Daniels. NIGHT BLADE is a definite must-read for all Urban Fantasy fans.
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
In just over 200 pages, Daniels manages to take readers by surprise and show them that she isn't afraid to make hard hits. NIGHT BLADE is packed to the brim with action and angst. The last few chapters of the book utterly gutted me and I'm sure readers will share the same rollercoaster ride of emotions I endured while reading it.
NIGHT BLADE is spectacular in its pacing and plotting. Intense emotions will be rolling through the reader and if that's any indication of how the rest of the series will progress, then I think it's safe to say that there is a new voice in Urban Fantasy that is as hard-hitting and adventurous as some of the genre's classic favorites. This voice belongs to J.C. Daniels. NIGHT BLADE is a definite must-read for all Urban Fantasy fans.
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
March 18, 2013
4.5 stars
-No spoilers, damnit! I will not spoil anything! Even though it kills not being able to say why!-
I am dying, here! It hurts so much! The pain! The sadness! The agony! It's killing me that I don't have anything more to read yet! I need something promising to ease this ache!!
Why the hell didn't I wait to read this until the next book was closer? WHY OH WHY!?!? Stupid, idiotic, masochist me. (Ok, ok, so, I may have loved every torturous, second of this book. Don't judge.)
But, Dear lord, someone get me a vat of alcohol. And three gallons of ice cream. I need serious comfort and major numbing, STAT! :weeps incessantly:
All else I can think is I love Damon and Doyle. Yes, you heard me. And I want to kill people that cannot be named so not to spoil anything. However, spoilers do not include that bitch Sam! Die, Bitch, die!
++ I will reserve this future space for more coherent thoughts if I can ever see through the last harrowing 20% of this book. Now, where is my bottle of wine…
-No spoilers, damnit! I will not spoil anything! Even though it kills not being able to say why!-
I am dying, here! It hurts so much! The pain! The sadness! The agony! It's killing me that I don't have anything more to read yet! I need something promising to ease this ache!!
Why the hell didn't I wait to read this until the next book was closer? WHY OH WHY!?!? Stupid, idiotic, masochist me. (Ok, ok, so, I may have loved every torturous, second of this book. Don't judge.)
But, Dear lord, someone get me a vat of alcohol. And three gallons of ice cream. I need serious comfort and major numbing, STAT! :weeps incessantly:
All else I can think is I love Damon and Doyle. Yes, you heard me. And I want to kill people that cannot be named so not to spoil anything. However, spoilers do not include that bitch Sam! Die, Bitch, die!
++ I will reserve this future space for more coherent thoughts if I can ever see through the last harrowing 20% of this book. Now, where is my bottle of wine…
February 12, 2013
ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
This book is an amazing follow-up to the first Colbana Files book, Blade Song. It's fast paced, and the action never lets up. The last quarter of the book is going to get you. And it's going to hurt. You might even cry. You might even shake your fist and curse that the next book is not out yet. Yes, Kit goes through some serious stuff that is going to be hard to bear witness to and it is a story well-told. Night Blade met and exceeded my expectations, and I think it will do the same for you.
This book is an amazing follow-up to the first Colbana Files book, Blade Song. It's fast paced, and the action never lets up. The last quarter of the book is going to get you. And it's going to hurt. You might even cry. You might even shake your fist and curse that the next book is not out yet. Yes, Kit goes through some serious stuff that is going to be hard to bear witness to and it is a story well-told. Night Blade met and exceeded my expectations, and I think it will do the same for you.
August 24, 2016
Now I remember why I love this series so much!! Omg it's sooo good!! On to the next book.
February 14, 2013
Kit Colbana knows there will be trouble when her ex walks in to her offices and gives her a job she can't refuse. If she does, the man she has fallen in love with Damon Lee, alpha of the Cat Clan will be executed. Why has he been killing members of the Assembly, could it have anything to do with her, has Kit's nightmarish past finally caught up with her?
Wow...this book was just WOW with big jingly bells on. It has blown me away, if I loved Blade Song, the first book in the series, than I am practically humping Night Blade! Night Blade was fast paced and exciting, full of action and some shockers, J.C. Daniels isn't afraid to straight out knock you down with some of the events she wallops you with! Be warned the last few chapters of this book aren't for the faint hearted, I was crying like a baby by the final page but was still left panting for more.
But it isn't just the plot that I am becoming addicted to with the Colbana Files series it is the also the characters. Kit is definitely a new favourite character of mine, I love a good UF heroine, they are tough; they are sarcastic; they are socially awkward; they have a soft spot and they have excellent taste in sexy, dangerous men. Kit is no different and although I may be familiar with this type of heroine she is written really well; Night Blade has continued developing her character and I find I like her more and more.
And what book isn't complete without a little bit of romance? Night Blade manages to add a hot injection of romance without slowing down the fast pace of the book. Damon and Kit's relationship is just as fascinating as the actual plot and it manages to be sweet and sexy as hell all at once.
This book ended on one hell of an intriguing place, it was almost a cliffhanger and I will be pouncing on the next book as soon as I can, it is one of my favourite reads so far this year, so get on it!
Wow...this book was just WOW with big jingly bells on. It has blown me away, if I loved Blade Song, the first book in the series, than I am practically humping Night Blade! Night Blade was fast paced and exciting, full of action and some shockers, J.C. Daniels isn't afraid to straight out knock you down with some of the events she wallops you with! Be warned the last few chapters of this book aren't for the faint hearted, I was crying like a baby by the final page but was still left panting for more.
But it isn't just the plot that I am becoming addicted to with the Colbana Files series it is the also the characters. Kit is definitely a new favourite character of mine, I love a good UF heroine, they are tough; they are sarcastic; they are socially awkward; they have a soft spot and they have excellent taste in sexy, dangerous men. Kit is no different and although I may be familiar with this type of heroine she is written really well; Night Blade has continued developing her character and I find I like her more and more.
And what book isn't complete without a little bit of romance? Night Blade manages to add a hot injection of romance without slowing down the fast pace of the book. Damon and Kit's relationship is just as fascinating as the actual plot and it manages to be sweet and sexy as hell all at once.
This book ended on one hell of an intriguing place, it was almost a cliffhanger and I will be pouncing on the next book as soon as I can, it is one of my favourite reads so far this year, so get on it!
July 16, 2014
4.5 stars
Edit
Just going to add... Well, maybe Damon's reaction was too uncharacteristic. I mean, c'mon, would he give up so easily? I get a hot temper, but you don't just walk...
Well, hello Mercy Thompson meets Kate Daniels. OK, not exactly, but there were similarities... More with Kate Daniels than mercy. We do have the grumpy cat and the warrior girl... Luckily, though, I make the comparison in the best way possible.
I liked this book. Not a surprise, since I liked the first book plenty. But when it comes to deep feels... Dayam, this book gets an A. I' not going for the full review: mostly because I'm still in the "Where's the rest of it? When's the next book coming out???!!!" phase, but I will say:
1) I like Kit, although that "I am aneira" mantra could show up a bit less often. She is strong and capable and a warrior without being TSTL. Cudos for that.
2) Me likey Damon as well. I like the growling shifters, what can I say. They make interesting. if occasionally hotheaded, heroes. There was a moment there when I wanted to kill him dead, but I have faith in him. He'll make me forgive him.
3) This time the world is described more thoroughly so that's good. I like the various side characters...
4) Justin... Well, I could like him: but I like Damon more. Guess we'll see how it all goes for him. I suppose it'll go the way Kit needs to heal. I just hope the triangle isn't dragged for too long. I have an aversion to that.
And so. Looking for the next book coming in 2014!
Warning: CLIFFHANGER
Edit
Just going to add... Well, maybe Damon's reaction was too uncharacteristic. I mean, c'mon, would he give up so easily? I get a hot temper, but you don't just walk...
Well, hello Mercy Thompson meets Kate Daniels. OK, not exactly, but there were similarities... More with Kate Daniels than mercy. We do have the grumpy cat and the warrior girl... Luckily, though, I make the comparison in the best way possible.
I liked this book. Not a surprise, since I liked the first book plenty. But when it comes to deep feels... Dayam, this book gets an A. I' not going for the full review: mostly because I'm still in the "Where's the rest of it? When's the next book coming out???!!!" phase, but I will say:
1) I like Kit, although that "I am aneira" mantra could show up a bit less often. She is strong and capable and a warrior without being TSTL. Cudos for that.
2) Me likey Damon as well. I like the growling shifters, what can I say. They make interesting. if occasionally hotheaded, heroes. There was a moment there when I wanted to kill him dead, but I have faith in him. He'll make me forgive him.
3) This time the world is described more thoroughly so that's good. I like the various side characters...
4) Justin... Well, I could like him: but I like Damon more. Guess we'll see how it all goes for him. I suppose it'll go the way Kit needs to heal. I just hope the triangle isn't dragged for too long. I have an aversion to that.
And so. Looking for the next book coming in 2014!
Warning: CLIFFHANGER
February 11, 2023
This book shatters me every time I read it, it begins like most urban fantasy novels. Kit is now in a relationship with the Cat Alpha Damon Lee,( he got the title after killing his predecessor in the last book) and everything isgoing well.for.once in her life. Then, Jason turns up he's now working for the Banner organisation (supernatural police sort of they mainly kill you if you break the rules). He has a job for Kit and it's not one she can turn down as it concerns Damon, to make things even harder he puts a binding spell on her which means she can't tell anyone what she's doing, this causes major problems between her and Damon as he realises she's hiding something from him. If Kit can't find an answer it may mean Damon's life so she can't afford to fail,,............... That's the basics of this story but it doesn't tell the tale, I've read this book several times and in the last four chapters i always have tears in my eyes while reading, I know what's coming and it still affects me that strongly, this author captures emotional trauma and makes you feel it,................... A rare gift..............
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2013
Kit
Love, love, loved this one. Amazing, gut wrenching, captivating...it had it all. Full review on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
This review will contain mild spoilers from Blade Song. DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW IF YOU HAVEN'T READ BLADE SONG. You have been warned.
In Night Blade we find Kit and Damon together as a couple. Damon is out-of-town a lot still cleaning up the pack from the previous Alpha. Kit is seeing a little more business and things are moving along at a normal pace. She hides the bonding marks Damon gave her with a wrist band because they both agree that it would just paint a target on her.
Kit is approached by her ex and Banner member, Justin, with a job she cannot refuse. Members of the Assembly are dying off and all are somehow connected to Damon. If Kit cannot give a valid reason these people are dying then Damon might be the next one to lose his life. To make things worse, Justin places a binding spell on Kit so she cannot talk to anyone about what she is doing.
Anyone includes Damon who is not happy that she is anywhere near an ex. He is suddenly tired of hiding what she is to him and marks her in a place that will be impossible to cover. Not only does this show the outside world the status of their relationship but it shows the members of his pack also. I was quite happy about that part since there is a particular female who was making a nuisance of herself around Damon.
Unlike Blade Song, it seemed that Night Blade was going to be a pretty straightforward plot. I had been told that this book would rip my heart out and I didn't see how that was going to happen with how the first 70% of the book was flowing. Ah, I should have known better.
I am not sure if I could come up with enough adjectives to describe my reaction to the remaining 30% of Night Blade. Angry? Stunned? Grief stricken? Heartbroken? Flayed? J.C. Daniels took this book to a place that I surely didn't think it would go. Night Blade pulls no punches and forces the reader to face a brutal conclusion for all our characters in this book. The writing is brilliant and emotional forcing the reader to continue even if I wanted to put the book down and walk away.
You can see from my review of Blade Song that I really liked the book, well Night Blade completely blew Blade Song out of the water. Night Blade made me an emotional wreck and who doesn't love a book that will pull out every emotion possible? Even days later I find myself going back to reread certain scenes because they are stuck in my head. It does not end on a cliffhanger but you will be left wondering what is in store for our characters and how they will move forward from what they experienced. All I have to say it don't be surprised if I cyber-stalk Ms. Daniels for Broken Blade. I am that desperate for more of this series. Final grade- A
Favorite Quote:
Each step added to the scars on me, it seemed.
If there was a part of me left unscarred by this, it would be a miracle.
Rating: A
Night Blade by J.C. Daniels
March 4th 2013 by Shiloh Walker, Inc.
Love, love, loved this one. Amazing, gut wrenching, captivating...it had it all. Full review on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
This review will contain mild spoilers from Blade Song. DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW IF YOU HAVEN'T READ BLADE SONG. You have been warned.
In Night Blade we find Kit and Damon together as a couple. Damon is out-of-town a lot still cleaning up the pack from the previous Alpha. Kit is seeing a little more business and things are moving along at a normal pace. She hides the bonding marks Damon gave her with a wrist band because they both agree that it would just paint a target on her.
Kit is approached by her ex and Banner member, Justin, with a job she cannot refuse. Members of the Assembly are dying off and all are somehow connected to Damon. If Kit cannot give a valid reason these people are dying then Damon might be the next one to lose his life. To make things worse, Justin places a binding spell on Kit so she cannot talk to anyone about what she is doing.
Anyone includes Damon who is not happy that she is anywhere near an ex. He is suddenly tired of hiding what she is to him and marks her in a place that will be impossible to cover. Not only does this show the outside world the status of their relationship but it shows the members of his pack also. I was quite happy about that part since there is a particular female who was making a nuisance of herself around Damon.
Unlike Blade Song, it seemed that Night Blade was going to be a pretty straightforward plot. I had been told that this book would rip my heart out and I didn't see how that was going to happen with how the first 70% of the book was flowing. Ah, I should have known better.
I am not sure if I could come up with enough adjectives to describe my reaction to the remaining 30% of Night Blade. Angry? Stunned? Grief stricken? Heartbroken? Flayed? J.C. Daniels took this book to a place that I surely didn't think it would go. Night Blade pulls no punches and forces the reader to face a brutal conclusion for all our characters in this book. The writing is brilliant and emotional forcing the reader to continue even if I wanted to put the book down and walk away.
You can see from my review of Blade Song that I really liked the book, well Night Blade completely blew Blade Song out of the water. Night Blade made me an emotional wreck and who doesn't love a book that will pull out every emotion possible? Even days later I find myself going back to reread certain scenes because they are stuck in my head. It does not end on a cliffhanger but you will be left wondering what is in store for our characters and how they will move forward from what they experienced. All I have to say it don't be surprised if I cyber-stalk Ms. Daniels for Broken Blade. I am that desperate for more of this series. Final grade- A
Favorite Quote:
Each step added to the scars on me, it seemed.
If there was a part of me left unscarred by this, it would be a miracle.
Rating: A
Night Blade by J.C. Daniels
March 4th 2013 by Shiloh Walker, Inc.
February 28, 2014
Edit: April 1/2013.
All right so I am ready to write a proper review to this amazing follow up to Blade Song. Seriously, it was a a wild ride but above all I just liked Kit so, so, so much. She is such a fighter and when the shit hits the fan she fights, and fights, and fights and never, ever gives up. I love her.
-----------------------------------
March 31/2013.
So many emotions at the moment.
Oh, my God, Kit!
Oh, my God, Damon!
Oh, my God, the ending!
Uploaded with ImageShack.us
All right so I am ready to write a proper review to this amazing follow up to Blade Song. Seriously, it was a a wild ride but above all I just liked Kit so, so, so much. She is such a fighter and when the shit hits the fan she fights, and fights, and fights and never, ever gives up. I love her.
-----------------------------------
March 31/2013.
So many emotions at the moment.
Oh, my God, Kit!
Oh, my God, Damon!
Oh, my God, the ending!
Uploaded with ImageShack.us
February 17, 2013
I loved Blade Song, I found it gripping and dark with an "uneasy" leading couple and a plot right down my alley.
I was terrified of starting Night Blade. I feared it wouldn't be up to par, that the hype I was remembering was just that, hype.
I'm sure that the Colbana Files books have their share of problems, and one may be the pure blackness of the villain in an otherwise "grey" characterizations. Another may be a confusing action scene with the wolves. But honestly they'll fade back when you immerse yourself in this world.
If in the first book, Jude was a bit too shallow, here Damon suffers that fate. I believe this is linked to a Kit-only's Pow, rather than a fault.
As I said, nothing/no one is really good or bad in this series, and that's the reason Jude stands out so much.
The pace of the plot is breathtaking and you'll end up literally glued to the final chapters. I had to read the last pages twice, I simply could not let it go.
Ms Daniels has guts, she doesn't shy back from her own stories and owns them. The consequences for the readers and her heroine aren't nice. Forewarned is forearmed. Do not go in expecting anything easy. It ain't. Kit was already a woman with a terrible past, I really do not know how she'll survive this new piece of her personal history.
Not everyone will like the ending and some won't like her writing style. But if you are reading book two, you already know it, don't you? Many have also said this series lack originality. Again, most stories are based on the same archetypal ideas. But do you think copy for every book or love story? A sword and a cat do not make the CF a rip-off.
I value a book by the pleasure it gives me while reading. And Night Blade made my day.
I want to thank Ms Daniels and her publisher for offering an Arc to an unknown reader.
I was terrified of starting Night Blade. I feared it wouldn't be up to par, that the hype I was remembering was just that, hype.
I'm sure that the Colbana Files books have their share of problems, and one may be the pure blackness of the villain in an otherwise "grey" characterizations. Another may be a confusing action scene with the wolves. But honestly they'll fade back when you immerse yourself in this world.
If in the first book, Jude was a bit too shallow, here Damon suffers that fate. I believe this is linked to a Kit-only's Pow, rather than a fault.
As I said, nothing/no one is really good or bad in this series, and that's the reason Jude stands out so much.
The pace of the plot is breathtaking and you'll end up literally glued to the final chapters. I had to read the last pages twice, I simply could not let it go.
Ms Daniels has guts, she doesn't shy back from her own stories and owns them. The consequences for the readers and her heroine aren't nice. Forewarned is forearmed. Do not go in expecting anything easy. It ain't. Kit was already a woman with a terrible past, I really do not know how she'll survive this new piece of her personal history.
Not everyone will like the ending and some won't like her writing style. But if you are reading book two, you already know it, don't you? Many have also said this series lack originality. Again, most stories are based on the same archetypal ideas. But do you think copy for every book or love story? A sword and a cat do not make the CF a rip-off.
I value a book by the pleasure it gives me while reading. And Night Blade made my day.
I want to thank Ms Daniels and her publisher for offering an Arc to an unknown reader.
September 23, 2017
This book will utterly gut you; just tear you apart by the end. This is tale is an extreme roller coaster of emotion and action. I swear at one point I was sobbing for Kit and I HATE to cry! I am not a pretty crier. Lol From the beginning we are taken on a ride, this book picks up about 3 months from where the first book left off. Kit and Damon are really trying making a go of their relationship. However, when an old friend comes to Kit with a new case she realizes everything she has been working for may come crashing down around her. Spurred on to protect the one that has come to mean so much to her, she takes on this case.
Kit is completely tested with this case, important members are dying and Kit has to find out why and this time its personal. She takes on rabid wolves, almost dies from another wolf attack, takes on a nasty witch and members of the council, not to mention Damon’s disproving pack and this is all in the first three quarters of the book. For me, what really made this book was the last quarter or so of this book. The first three quarters is action packed and entertaining but it’s the end that will wreck you. J.C. Daniels isn’t afraid to take risks, take readers out of their comfort zone and really hit hard.
Get ready for an amazing, fantastic ride that will stick with you for a long time to come!
*This book was provided through NetGalley for an honest review. No other compensation was provided.
Rating:
5
Kit is completely tested with this case, important members are dying and Kit has to find out why and this time its personal. She takes on rabid wolves, almost dies from another wolf attack, takes on a nasty witch and members of the council, not to mention Damon’s disproving pack and this is all in the first three quarters of the book. For me, what really made this book was the last quarter or so of this book. The first three quarters is action packed and entertaining but it’s the end that will wreck you. J.C. Daniels isn’t afraid to take risks, take readers out of their comfort zone and really hit hard.
Get ready for an amazing, fantastic ride that will stick with you for a long time to come!
*This book was provided through NetGalley for an honest review. No other compensation was provided.
Rating:
5
May 22, 2021
An assasin who is always terrified 😐???
If the villians tell you that she is not a warrior, then she tells you that she is not a warrior, then is she really a warrior??? I'm all for heroines going through struggles and hard times, but they also have to have some redeeming qualities of honor, ambition, strength, pride, anything!!! Not Kit, she is only good at making me feel sorry for her.
I'm gonna give it one more book, because after this there is no way she continues to be a pushover. The next book she'll have to come out swinging.
If the villians tell you that she is not a warrior, then she tells you that she is not a warrior, then is she really a warrior??? I'm all for heroines going through struggles and hard times, but they also have to have some redeeming qualities of honor, ambition, strength, pride, anything!!! Not Kit, she is only good at making me feel sorry for her.
I'm gonna give it one more book, because after this there is no way she continues to be a pushover. The next book she'll have to come out swinging.
August 13, 2016
I hate it when I get into a new series and then realize I have to wait a year until the next book is out.
March 6, 2013
My Rating: 5 stars: Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
*Warning: Night Blade is a deeply emotional read; one that has the potential to take you to dark, low places. However, if you are up for the emotional journey, it is WELL WORTH the time, energy and tears.
Kit Colbana, half-human--half-supernatural warrior, runs a detective agency/courier service, and Wolf Alpha Alisdair MacDonald of the East Orlando Pack hires Kit to transport an interesting package with a message to a secluded pack in the hills of Tennessee. However, due to her recent mating with East Orlando Cat Alpha Damon, Alisdair doesn’t want to end up on the bad side of the Cats if something goes wrong. So he sends along his most powerful lieutenant, Megan. Kit and Megan do their job, but not before learning more about this gruesome pack and its tyrannical Alpha. Not only is the pack trying to steal female wolves from the East Orlando pack, but Kit believes this Alpha may be responsible for permanently disabling a close friend.
The opening scenes of Night Blade are filled with high-tension action and excitement. The intensity of the situation drew me in immediately. I enjoyed the interactions between Kit and Megan, especially when Kit let Megan have it for divulging secrets she had no right to tell. It was also a great way to display Kit’s strength, tenacity, and her overwhelming beliefs in what is “right and wrong.” However, once the pair complete their task and go their separate ways, the book does not return to this subplot, which was a little bothersome to me. There are some issues raised that I’d like to see addressed and dealt with in future stories.
The real heart of the book begins when Kit’s ex, Justin, a BANNER agent (cops of the supernatural) recruits Kit to find out why some influential supernatural leaders are being killed. Unfortunately, the evidence overwhelmingly points to Damon, and BANNER will execute him within days unless someone (Kit!) can prove otherwise. And even worse, Justin places a spell on Kit so she cannot tell or even think about telling Damon what’s going on. Yes... I cringed at this point, knowing that a misunderstanding between Kit and Damon would occur at some point due to this.
Although Night Blade is not a romance, a large part of the story revolves around the developing relationship between Damon and Kit. I wasn’t a big fan of Damon at the beginning of the first book, Blade Song, but by the end, I fell for him hard. I love Damon and Kit together. His need and desire to protect her is so alpha-licious. His emotional expressions, especially that he cannot protect Kit from her past, are soulful and swoon-worthy. What makes them a great pair is that Kit is equally strong-willed and tough. She allows him to worry and protect, but doesn’t let him change who she is. Their relationship works because they work at the relationship. And they are both passionate characters, which creates wonderful banter, and even better sexual tension and smokin’ smex scenes.
Night Blade also brings back some of the interesting characters we met in the first book. One such character is Doyle, the young kidnapped wolf who Kit was tasked to save. Doyle has a chip on his shoulder, and is not a fan of Kit. That is until Kit earns his respect as a warrior via her blade handling skills. Each interaction between Doyle and Kit allows for additional growth, and in the end, Doyle becomes one of my favorite characters. There are so many other characters I want to mention (like best friend, Coleen), but there just isn’t enough time and space here (catch me on twitter - we can chat!)
And I believe that the great characters Ms. Walker creates is what makes this book so engrossing. Although there is a lot of action in these pages, I feel it is a character-driven series. Ms. Walker creates characters that encompass all spectrums of good, bad and ugly. Their actions evoke strong reactions and feelings, creating an emotional investment by the reader. And because you come to care so much for them, when something bad happens, well... frankly it breaks your heart.
As I warned up front, if you are an emotional reader like I am, be prepared to shed a tear or twelve. *Potentially spoilerish commentary here* Kit does not have an easy road. First things turn south with her BANNER investigation. Then, a character from Kit’s past makes life a living hell for her. She experiences such horrible acts that she is nearly broken. There were times during the last quarter of the book that I had to take a break because I was overly attached to Kit and crushed by what was happening. But even though things are bleak, I believe the story ends with hope, for which I am thankful. *End of potentially spoilerish comments*
All-in-all, Night Blade is a well-written, gripping story and a very emotional read, which is well worth the journey. I was drawn in from the start because there is just something about Kit. I love her sense of self, wit, dedication, and charisma. I love her and Damon. I love her and Colleen. I love Doyle. The character interactions are beautifully scripted and cause me to care. I am truly invested in these characters and want them to be happy. I like that although there are horrific scenes, there isn't any graphic or gratuitous violence. And as I’ve harassed mentioned to the author several times on twitter, the next book won't get here soon enough.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
*Warning: Night Blade is a deeply emotional read; one that has the potential to take you to dark, low places. However, if you are up for the emotional journey, it is WELL WORTH the time, energy and tears.
Kit Colbana, half-human--half-supernatural warrior, runs a detective agency/courier service, and Wolf Alpha Alisdair MacDonald of the East Orlando Pack hires Kit to transport an interesting package with a message to a secluded pack in the hills of Tennessee. However, due to her recent mating with East Orlando Cat Alpha Damon, Alisdair doesn’t want to end up on the bad side of the Cats if something goes wrong. So he sends along his most powerful lieutenant, Megan. Kit and Megan do their job, but not before learning more about this gruesome pack and its tyrannical Alpha. Not only is the pack trying to steal female wolves from the East Orlando pack, but Kit believes this Alpha may be responsible for permanently disabling a close friend.
The opening scenes of Night Blade are filled with high-tension action and excitement. The intensity of the situation drew me in immediately. I enjoyed the interactions between Kit and Megan, especially when Kit let Megan have it for divulging secrets she had no right to tell. It was also a great way to display Kit’s strength, tenacity, and her overwhelming beliefs in what is “right and wrong.” However, once the pair complete their task and go their separate ways, the book does not return to this subplot, which was a little bothersome to me. There are some issues raised that I’d like to see addressed and dealt with in future stories.
The real heart of the book begins when Kit’s ex, Justin, a BANNER agent (cops of the supernatural) recruits Kit to find out why some influential supernatural leaders are being killed. Unfortunately, the evidence overwhelmingly points to Damon, and BANNER will execute him within days unless someone (Kit!) can prove otherwise. And even worse, Justin places a spell on Kit so she cannot tell or even think about telling Damon what’s going on. Yes... I cringed at this point, knowing that a misunderstanding between Kit and Damon would occur at some point due to this.
Although Night Blade is not a romance, a large part of the story revolves around the developing relationship between Damon and Kit. I wasn’t a big fan of Damon at the beginning of the first book, Blade Song, but by the end, I fell for him hard. I love Damon and Kit together. His need and desire to protect her is so alpha-licious. His emotional expressions, especially that he cannot protect Kit from her past, are soulful and swoon-worthy. What makes them a great pair is that Kit is equally strong-willed and tough. She allows him to worry and protect, but doesn’t let him change who she is. Their relationship works because they work at the relationship. And they are both passionate characters, which creates wonderful banter, and even better sexual tension and smokin’ smex scenes.
Night Blade also brings back some of the interesting characters we met in the first book. One such character is Doyle, the young kidnapped wolf who Kit was tasked to save. Doyle has a chip on his shoulder, and is not a fan of Kit. That is until Kit earns his respect as a warrior via her blade handling skills. Each interaction between Doyle and Kit allows for additional growth, and in the end, Doyle becomes one of my favorite characters. There are so many other characters I want to mention (like best friend, Coleen), but there just isn’t enough time and space here (catch me on twitter - we can chat!)
And I believe that the great characters Ms. Walker creates is what makes this book so engrossing. Although there is a lot of action in these pages, I feel it is a character-driven series. Ms. Walker creates characters that encompass all spectrums of good, bad and ugly. Their actions evoke strong reactions and feelings, creating an emotional investment by the reader. And because you come to care so much for them, when something bad happens, well... frankly it breaks your heart.
As I warned up front, if you are an emotional reader like I am, be prepared to shed a tear or twelve. *Potentially spoilerish commentary here* Kit does not have an easy road. First things turn south with her BANNER investigation. Then, a character from Kit’s past makes life a living hell for her. She experiences such horrible acts that she is nearly broken. There were times during the last quarter of the book that I had to take a break because I was overly attached to Kit and crushed by what was happening. But even though things are bleak, I believe the story ends with hope, for which I am thankful. *End of potentially spoilerish comments*
All-in-all, Night Blade is a well-written, gripping story and a very emotional read, which is well worth the journey. I was drawn in from the start because there is just something about Kit. I love her sense of self, wit, dedication, and charisma. I love her and Damon. I love her and Colleen. I love Doyle. The character interactions are beautifully scripted and cause me to care. I am truly invested in these characters and want them to be happy. I like that although there are horrific scenes, there isn't any graphic or gratuitous violence. And as I’ve harassed mentioned to the author several times on twitter, the next book won't get here soon enough.
May 25, 2023
Ughhh the ending was heartbreaking!!! I need the surf hot to buck up and make Kit into the bada%## we know she is!! Damon is a jerk and deserves every ounce of guilt he feels.
Doyle is the hero of the day, his growing friendship with Kit is awesome and his tracking and helping in her rescue is like coming full circle.
Doyle is the hero of the day, his growing friendship with Kit is awesome and his tracking and helping in her rescue is like coming full circle.
March 11, 2013
Review coming soon.. but seriously, OMG. If you're in need of UF with action/adventure and a whole lotta heart.. do yourself a favor and read this series :) (The ending made me cry.. and I almost NEVER do that lol)
***posted as a guest review over at paranormalhaven.com***
If you’re looking for a solid Urban Fantasy with a fast paced plot and intriguing characters, then J.C. Daniel’s Night Blade just may be the book for you. Night Blade picks up right after the events from Blade Song, the first novel in the Colbana Files. If you haven’t read Blade Song (and I strongly recommend that you do), chances are you may miss out on the story arcs and character developments that happen within Night Blade.
Kit Colbana is an investigator who is hired to do a variety of jobs for the supernatural community. After finishing up a job for the werewolf clan, Kit is approached by Banner, or more to the point, her ex – Justin Greaves. The Banner units are sent out to eliminate supernaturals who are believed to be too deadly to live. Prominent non-humans are being killed and Banner suspects Kit’s lover, Damon, the new alpha of the cat clan, of committing the murders. Kit must find a way to keep Damon out of trouble and from being “exterminated” by Banner.
I’ll go off topic briefly just to say that what I really enjoyed about Blade Song (Book 1) was the developing relationship between Kit and Damon. Early on, Damon makes a pretty boneheaded move and spends much of the book reassessing Kit and atoning for his mistake. Much of the book is about the two of them getting to know one another and finding love when they did not expect it. And while Night Blade does feature quite a few scenes with them together, the majority of the book is spent with them apart, each focused on their respective goals. Let me just say this, I am not a big lover of the “alpha male.” The domineering personality, overt jealousy, and control issues are characteristics I do not find remotely attractive. But the author does strike such a great balance between the alpha male character traits and softer traits that I find Damon’s character to be pretty palatable, even as I find myself wanting to smack him as Kit does.
For me, one of the highlights of Night Blade was the relationship that develops between Doyle and Kit. (Doyle is a young kid that Kit rescued) They had a pretty rough time of it in Blade Song and watching them work through that from the beginning of the Night Blade to the end of the novel had me in tears. Seriously. It takes a lot for me to tear up while reading, but at the end of the book, it’s just about all I damn near did. The last 25 % of the book is jam packed, and while being absolutely gut wrenching, it is a little predictable. Aside from that, this series is spectacular, it really is. I love Kit, with her strength and vulnerability. She’s smart, driven, and is plagued with the past from hell. JC Daniels does a remarkable job crafting a likeable but flawed heroine, the alpha male hero, and great supporting characters that have you interested in their backgrounds and what possible future stories they might have to tell in upcoming books.
My rating – 4.5
***posted as a guest review over at paranormalhaven.com***
If you’re looking for a solid Urban Fantasy with a fast paced plot and intriguing characters, then J.C. Daniel’s Night Blade just may be the book for you. Night Blade picks up right after the events from Blade Song, the first novel in the Colbana Files. If you haven’t read Blade Song (and I strongly recommend that you do), chances are you may miss out on the story arcs and character developments that happen within Night Blade.
Kit Colbana is an investigator who is hired to do a variety of jobs for the supernatural community. After finishing up a job for the werewolf clan, Kit is approached by Banner, or more to the point, her ex – Justin Greaves. The Banner units are sent out to eliminate supernaturals who are believed to be too deadly to live. Prominent non-humans are being killed and Banner suspects Kit’s lover, Damon, the new alpha of the cat clan, of committing the murders. Kit must find a way to keep Damon out of trouble and from being “exterminated” by Banner.
I’ll go off topic briefly just to say that what I really enjoyed about Blade Song (Book 1) was the developing relationship between Kit and Damon. Early on, Damon makes a pretty boneheaded move and spends much of the book reassessing Kit and atoning for his mistake. Much of the book is about the two of them getting to know one another and finding love when they did not expect it. And while Night Blade does feature quite a few scenes with them together, the majority of the book is spent with them apart, each focused on their respective goals. Let me just say this, I am not a big lover of the “alpha male.” The domineering personality, overt jealousy, and control issues are characteristics I do not find remotely attractive. But the author does strike such a great balance between the alpha male character traits and softer traits that I find Damon’s character to be pretty palatable, even as I find myself wanting to smack him as Kit does.
For me, one of the highlights of Night Blade was the relationship that develops between Doyle and Kit. (Doyle is a young kid that Kit rescued) They had a pretty rough time of it in Blade Song and watching them work through that from the beginning of the Night Blade to the end of the novel had me in tears. Seriously. It takes a lot for me to tear up while reading, but at the end of the book, it’s just about all I damn near did. The last 25 % of the book is jam packed, and while being absolutely gut wrenching, it is a little predictable. Aside from that, this series is spectacular, it really is. I love Kit, with her strength and vulnerability. She’s smart, driven, and is plagued with the past from hell. JC Daniels does a remarkable job crafting a likeable but flawed heroine, the alpha male hero, and great supporting characters that have you interested in their backgrounds and what possible future stories they might have to tell in upcoming books.
My rating – 4.5
May 18, 2017
Colbana Files series is my latest urban fantasy 'find'. Blade Song, the first book in series, was very good for a self-published novel and I was looking forward to reading more.
Night Blade was very improved compared to Blade Song.
- Plot was more focused.
- There is no slow start.
- All the characters I got to know are again here.
- A lot of action.
- Intriguing mystery.
One thing that really annoyed me is how the book ends. It's a big unexpected development and definitely added intense can't-put-it-down element to the book. On the other hand, I feel so sorry for all the bad things that happen.
After that ending, I had to grab Broken Blade right away to find out what happens next.
Night Blade was very improved compared to Blade Song.
- Plot was more focused.
- There is no slow start.
- All the characters I got to know are again here.
- A lot of action.
- Intriguing mystery.
One thing that really annoyed me is how the book ends. It's a big unexpected development and definitely added intense can't-put-it-down element to the book. On the other hand, I feel so sorry for all the bad things that happen.
After that ending, I had to grab Broken Blade right away to find out what happens next.
February 9, 2013
I'm struggling to do justice to this book with my review. I really am. I mean I adored Blade Song but this one was gut-wrenchingly awesome. I blubbered during parts of this, cheered during others, sighed and muttered all in one book. I mean that is not easy for an author to pull off but then nothing about Kit is easy (a little birdie told me that).
Kit just proves herself to be much more than anyone, even this reader, expected. She's strong enough to make a decision that she knows could put her at odds with someone who means the world to her but the alternative is to probably live without the person that has quickly become so vital to her existence. Now I say this but you might take it to mean that she loses her sense of self. Oh dear God no she doesn't, she still makes rash decisions that have a way of coming back to haunt her but typically she makes it out battle-weary but alive. She is the ultimate survivor and for that you want her to have pure happiness in the arms of the man that loves her. And yes I mean...
Damon… sigh… I love love love this man. Yes, he can be a bit of an asshole but come on he is one kick-ass shifter that adores Kit. They may not have had the most traditional start to their relationship and there are going to be major problems but there is something real, strong and so worth fighting for you cheer for them. Damon has been working hard on cleaning up the mess from the former Alpha so they haven't had a ton of time together but when you get to see these two you can feel the heat coming off the page. There is something real there and I loved seeing it play out during this book.
Ok now is where I will get a few groans but I can't give away too much more without ruining what made me go through the gamut of emotions I did. This has whetted my appetite for Broken Blade and I am trying desperately to be patient… I really am… Seriously… Why aren't you believing me?
Huh?
Huh?
Huh?
Ok enough already… Go grab this one but make sure to have a box of tissues, a reading partner you can IM/tweet OMGs with and chocolate or your comfort food of choice on hand.
Special thanks to NetGalley.com and INscribe Digital for giving me the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review.
Kit just proves herself to be much more than anyone, even this reader, expected. She's strong enough to make a decision that she knows could put her at odds with someone who means the world to her but the alternative is to probably live without the person that has quickly become so vital to her existence. Now I say this but you might take it to mean that she loses her sense of self. Oh dear God no she doesn't, she still makes rash decisions that have a way of coming back to haunt her but typically she makes it out battle-weary but alive. She is the ultimate survivor and for that you want her to have pure happiness in the arms of the man that loves her. And yes I mean...
Damon… sigh… I love love love this man. Yes, he can be a bit of an asshole but come on he is one kick-ass shifter that adores Kit. They may not have had the most traditional start to their relationship and there are going to be major problems but there is something real, strong and so worth fighting for you cheer for them. Damon has been working hard on cleaning up the mess from the former Alpha so they haven't had a ton of time together but when you get to see these two you can feel the heat coming off the page. There is something real there and I loved seeing it play out during this book.
Ok now is where I will get a few groans but I can't give away too much more without ruining what made me go through the gamut of emotions I did. This has whetted my appetite for Broken Blade and I am trying desperately to be patient… I really am… Seriously… Why aren't you believing me?
Huh?
Huh?
Huh?
Ok enough already… Go grab this one but make sure to have a box of tissues, a reading partner you can IM/tweet OMGs with and chocolate or your comfort food of choice on hand.
Special thanks to NetGalley.com and INscribe Digital for giving me the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review.
March 2, 2013
*Genre* Urban Fantasty set in the near future
*Rating* 4.0
*First Thoughts*
I liked Night Blade even more than I did Blade Song. I liked that Kit is a strong lead character who is part Amazon. However, I hated Damon and his neanderthal ways. You can be a strong female lead character without a man around telling you what to do, when to do it, and then marking his "territory" like Kit was his love slave or something. I haven't really liked him since he was introduced in Blade Song, yet, I tolerated his presence because Kit became enamored with him.
As such, it's not surprising that Kit takes a secret job at the behest of Jason and Banner in saving Damon's life from termination. Kit goes to great lengths in saving Damon from the gallows, and in turn, he's a total prick toward her which she pretty much takes like a good soldier. There's obviously more to this book than I'm saying since it would just spoil it for future readers.
The last part of this book was absolutely stunning in the manner in which Daniels treats her character. She totally doesn't hold back and reader shouldn't expect her to. At times, it was hard to read about all the pain and suffering Kit suffers at the hands of vampire Jude Whittier. Thankfully, Kit has some awesome friends like Goliath, Doyle, TJ, Justin, and Colleen to help her out.
Obviously, this book ties directly into "Broken Blade 2014" which should be self explanatory at what happens in this book. I really want to see an end all confrontation between Kit and her grandmother Fanis. I think it would be a fitting end to the series, or trilogy, or whatever this happens to be.
Definitely recommended for those who enjoy UF novels.
ARC provided by Netgalley for review 01/23/2013 - Expected publication: April 2nd 2013 (first published March 4th 2013)
*Rating* 4.0
*First Thoughts*
I liked Night Blade even more than I did Blade Song. I liked that Kit is a strong lead character who is part Amazon. However, I hated Damon and his neanderthal ways. You can be a strong female lead character without a man around telling you what to do, when to do it, and then marking his "territory" like Kit was his love slave or something. I haven't really liked him since he was introduced in Blade Song, yet, I tolerated his presence because Kit became enamored with him.
As such, it's not surprising that Kit takes a secret job at the behest of Jason and Banner in saving Damon's life from termination. Kit goes to great lengths in saving Damon from the gallows, and in turn, he's a total prick toward her which she pretty much takes like a good soldier. There's obviously more to this book than I'm saying since it would just spoil it for future readers.
The last part of this book was absolutely stunning in the manner in which Daniels treats her character. She totally doesn't hold back and reader shouldn't expect her to. At times, it was hard to read about all the pain and suffering Kit suffers at the hands of vampire Jude Whittier. Thankfully, Kit has some awesome friends like Goliath, Doyle, TJ, Justin, and Colleen to help her out.
Obviously, this book ties directly into "Broken Blade 2014" which should be self explanatory at what happens in this book. I really want to see an end all confrontation between Kit and her grandmother Fanis. I think it would be a fitting end to the series, or trilogy, or whatever this happens to be.
Definitely recommended for those who enjoy UF novels.
ARC provided by Netgalley for review 01/23/2013 - Expected publication: April 2nd 2013 (first published March 4th 2013)
September 12, 2017
Guys, I loved book 1 in this series. LOVED IT. I wanted to read it all over again as soon as I got to the end. This book? THIS BOOK ABSOLUTELY KILLED ME! It was... amazing. Heartbreaking. Terrifying. Sweetly beautiful. And it made me cry. It made me have to put my book down and take a few deep breaths because, HOLY HANNAH, the things that Kit has had to endure in her life are awful and she's managed to take her crappy childhood and her all her fears and make it work for her. She's strong and flawed and... I want more of this series.
After the events in book 1, Kit and Damon have found a tentative balance. He's still fiercely possessive and she's trying to get him to understand that she has skills and she's not going to break easily. Damon tries. I'll give him that. He steps back and trusts that she'll come to him when she needs him. Kit is sometimes reckless but, as she has to continually remind everyone, she's a born assassin and she has abilities that most around her can't comprehend. She can take care of herself. Until the moment she can't and everything she relies on is jerked out from under her.
And that's where I collapsed in a pile of tears and started rocking.
Because Kit's greatest strength has always been something that is hers alone and when it's stolen from her, it flayed me.
I am completely in awe of the characters and world that J.C. Daniels has created and I have no idea how I'm going to hold it together until book 3 comes out. Kit might have found her way out of this particular frying pan but she's far from okay. I want to see her triumph over her nightmares. I *need* to see it. She's in my head and she refuses to get out.
I'm okay with that.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
After the events in book 1, Kit and Damon have found a tentative balance. He's still fiercely possessive and she's trying to get him to understand that she has skills and she's not going to break easily. Damon tries. I'll give him that. He steps back and trusts that she'll come to him when she needs him. Kit is sometimes reckless but, as she has to continually remind everyone, she's a born assassin and she has abilities that most around her can't comprehend. She can take care of herself. Until the moment she can't and everything she relies on is jerked out from under her.
And that's where I collapsed in a pile of tears and started rocking.
Because Kit's greatest strength has always been something that is hers alone and when it's stolen from her, it flayed me.
I am completely in awe of the characters and world that J.C. Daniels has created and I have no idea how I'm going to hold it together until book 3 comes out. Kit might have found her way out of this particular frying pan but she's far from okay. I want to see her triumph over her nightmares. I *need* to see it. She's in my head and she refuses to get out.
I'm okay with that.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
November 24, 2016
4/5/5.0
Oh, this story just ripped me to pieces! SO good, SO heartbreaking! The story is truly un-put-downable! Only downside is the cliff-hanger ending that requires one to buy the next book - and while I would have done so anyway, it never sets right that I'm being manipulated into it. The only saving grace (and reason I'm not on a ranting tirade) is that I didn't have to wait the year before the next book came out like so many people who found this series before.
Oh, this story just ripped me to pieces! SO good, SO heartbreaking! The story is truly un-put-downable! Only downside is the cliff-hanger ending that requires one to buy the next book - and while I would have done so anyway, it never sets right that I'm being manipulated into it. The only saving grace (and reason I'm not on a ranting tirade) is that I didn't have to wait the year before the next book came out like so many people who found this series before.
March 13, 2013
J. C. Daniels has made me cry! This book shredded me. I love Kit. She gets knocked down but never quits. My heart hurts for her. This is the second book in the series and it was amazing! I loved every single second of this read!
March 20, 2013
Amazing book. Heart wrenching end. I just adore Kit so, so much. And Damon. One of the best UF series I've read in a long time. Make sure you read book one, Blade Song before this one!
Dying for #3
Dying for #3
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews