What do you think?
Rate this book
Night #1
Crimson Night
Welcome to Carnivale Diabolique ― or what I affectionately like to call the circus of the damned.
My name is Pandora, and though my face might not seem familiar to you, you do know me. I'm a Nephilim. What does that mean? I'm half demon, what's my other name? Lust. I'm the dark craving that drives you mad, makes you want, makes you reckless and stupid. I'm the drug you'll do anything to get your hands on. But I'm not all bad. I fight for light, for goodness and truth. I love my job, killing vampires and werewolves, zombies, and freaks... it's what makes me happy.
But people are starting to disappear and lately I've felt a dark presence lurking around me. I think it might be a death priest, that's not good. There isn't much a demon like me fears, but I fear them. This should have been easy, me killing the fanged freaks, getting rid of my pesky priest problem, but I'm about to be betrayed by the one person I thought I could trust with my life and before the night is through I'll be covered in crimson...
My name is Pandora, and though my face might not seem familiar to you, you do know me. I'm a Nephilim. What does that mean? I'm half demon, what's my other name? Lust. I'm the dark craving that drives you mad, makes you want, makes you reckless and stupid. I'm the drug you'll do anything to get your hands on. But I'm not all bad. I fight for light, for goodness and truth. I love my job, killing vampires and werewolves, zombies, and freaks... it's what makes me happy.
But people are starting to disappear and lately I've felt a dark presence lurking around me. I think it might be a death priest, that's not good. There isn't much a demon like me fears, but I fear them. This should have been easy, me killing the fanged freaks, getting rid of my pesky priest problem, but I'm about to be betrayed by the one person I thought I could trust with my life and before the night is through I'll be covered in crimson...
300 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2013
75 people are currently reading
2101 people want to read
About the author
Marie Hall
58 books2,093 followersMarie Hall is a USA Today Bestselling author and has always held a dangerous fascination for creatures that go bump in the night. And mermaids. And of course fairies. Trolls. Unicorns. Shapeshifters. Vampires. Scottish brogues. Kilts. Beefy arms. Ummm... Bad boys! Especially the sexy ones.
Then the day came she realized apart from the sexy bad boy she married, there'd be no vampires/shapeshifters/mermaids/fairies/or even stinky trolls in her future unless she wrote about them. More often than not she can be found roaming the wild, lush tropical forest she calls her backyard (a.k.a. Hawaii) and day dreaming constantly about her latest project.
Her Mad Hatter is the first book of her Kingdom Series.
She loves to hear from her readers and can be reached at mariehallwrites@gmail.com!
Then the day came she realized apart from the sexy bad boy she married, there'd be no vampires/shapeshifters/mermaids/fairies/or even stinky trolls in her future unless she wrote about them. More often than not she can be found roaming the wild, lush tropical forest she calls her backyard (a.k.a. Hawaii) and day dreaming constantly about her latest project.
Her Mad Hatter is the first book of her Kingdom Series.
She loves to hear from her readers and can be reached at mariehallwrites@gmail.com!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 202 reviews
August 5, 2016
☠ DNF at 26%. Because I've had it with this crap.
And no, I'm not even going to bother to review this one. Because I won't waste the little time I have writing a never-ending rant about a pathetic PoC™ which is so badly written and poorly edited it made my head hurt. And don't get me started on the flat/bland/unlikeable/ever blah-blah-blah-ing MC. Anyway, I'm feeling murderous enough as it is these days, and writing this review would only make things worse. I'd probably end up killing things and stuff. So I'll just leave it at that. Marie Hall, it sure looks like this is your lucky day. You should go play the lottery or something.
PS: Heather, my favourite Queen of Smut, I
November 19, 2013
Erotic, steamy, and dark, Crimson Night is an intriguing gothic novel that is sure to capture the reader's fancy and fantasies with memorable characters, and engaging multi-level plot. A complex character herself, Pandora is torn between her demon and her desire to hold onto her remaining bit of humanity. Each plot twist is unexpected and leaves the reader empathizing with Pandora. Deeply emotional and heart-wrenching scenes make the reader empathize with the characters. Truly, it's an extremely engaging read that I couldn't put down. Marie Hall is truly a remarkable author with a penchant for making amazing characters with realistic emotions that stay with the reader even after the conclusion of the book. I can't wait for the next installment of this series.
I have been given an e-book copy by the author for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review. All conclusions are my own responsibility.
I have been given an e-book copy by the author for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review. All conclusions are my own responsibility.
February 2, 2015
Mind....blown. This book came outta nowhere and completely clusterfecked me.
Wow just WOW! The book was a slow starter for me. In the beginning it seemed to have a lot going on but was slow to explain some things. But it was a breath of fresh air and not the usual PNR/UF books that we're used to seeing in this genre. It was packed with action, intrigue.....it had me on the edge of my friggin seat for a minute and crying the next. Demons, vampires, witches, carnies, zombies...oh my! I'm not as good at writing reviews as most of my favorite neighborhood bloggers on here are but if one of you reads this......Grab this book girls and be prepared to be sucked in. This is absolutely worth the ride.
Currently available for free through Kindle Unlimited... Previously published under the pen name Marie Hall (author of the Kingdom series). Not available on Nook. Author explains name change here...http://www.mariehallwrites.blogspot.com/
Wow just WOW! The book was a slow starter for me. In the beginning it seemed to have a lot going on but was slow to explain some things. But it was a breath of fresh air and not the usual PNR/UF books that we're used to seeing in this genre. It was packed with action, intrigue.....it had me on the edge of my friggin seat for a minute and crying the next. Demons, vampires, witches, carnies, zombies...oh my! I'm not as good at writing reviews as most of my favorite neighborhood bloggers on here are but if one of you reads this......Grab this book girls and be prepared to be sucked in. This is absolutely worth the ride.
Currently available for free through Kindle Unlimited... Previously published under the pen name Marie Hall (author of the Kingdom series). Not available on Nook. Author explains name change here...http://www.mariehallwrites.blogspot.com/
August 12, 2014
Favourite Line(s) “I wasn’t used to this, Luc was steadfast, his emotions never betraying how he truly felt. Frost bitten, I liked to call him.”
“That blinding, ripping orgasm that steals all the breath from your lungs so that all you can do is scream into the black void of nothingness and hope you can find your way back to sanity.”
“Love is the cruelest myth of all.”
“If she is the woman of prophecy, we’ll know tonight. If not she’s expendable.”
I love this author! She's amazing!
This book is amazing as are every one of her books!
This book deals with the seven deadly sins and they are demons!
Pandora is half demon and she has lust as part of herself! She can transform herself into your dirtiest and darkest desires!
She lives with other demons at a carnival. While working at her ride she sees 3 vampires take a person of the light which is a big no no! She doesn't save the girl but un covers so etching they don't see often. Vamps working together! She goes to her order contact and she fills her in on something that is scary! Vampires have a club and its close to the carnival! She finds out she can't trust those she thought she could!
As always I won't tell you more but,I love the lore of the 7 deadly sins!
I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next for book two!! As always AMAZING!!
I was given is book by author I exchange for an honest review
FIVE LUST FAIRIES
“That blinding, ripping orgasm that steals all the breath from your lungs so that all you can do is scream into the black void of nothingness and hope you can find your way back to sanity.”
“Love is the cruelest myth of all.”
“If she is the woman of prophecy, we’ll know tonight. If not she’s expendable.”
I love this author! She's amazing!
This book is amazing as are every one of her books!
This book deals with the seven deadly sins and they are demons!
Pandora is half demon and she has lust as part of herself! She can transform herself into your dirtiest and darkest desires!
She lives with other demons at a carnival. While working at her ride she sees 3 vampires take a person of the light which is a big no no! She doesn't save the girl but un covers so etching they don't see often. Vamps working together! She goes to her order contact and she fills her in on something that is scary! Vampires have a club and its close to the carnival! She finds out she can't trust those she thought she could!
As always I won't tell you more but,I love the lore of the 7 deadly sins!
I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next for book two!! As always AMAZING!!
I was given is book by author I exchange for an honest review
FIVE LUST FAIRIES
October 17, 2013
Pandora is a Nephilim, having the soul of a demon inside her. Her particular demon happens to be Lust, and she is a greedy master. Pandora needs sex on a very frequent basis and can morph into whatever the man she wants desires. She and her "family", or other demons, work for a traveling carnival that caters to peoples desires. Pandora is being stalked by a preist, a killer of her kind. But Pandora is not evil, she tries to be decent minus her need for sex. She ends up looking into a vampire group that might be killing people. Pandora tries to take on the evil, but it may be more than she can handle.
This book was ok. It took sometime to get into it because it had a very slow start. The book did pick up about half way into it, and stayed consistently action packed until the end.
What really bothered me was the lack of character development. Pandora was kind of a blah character. We did not really get to know anything about her except that she needed sex. Most of the story line dealt with her desires, what she liked, what shape she took on , what the guy she was sleeping with looked like, what she wore...But nothing about who she is or what she wants (besides sex). Yes I get she houses Lust inside her, but can't she she more than that?
The one thing that the book did really well was world building. I understood the demons, the factions of supernatural, the carnival, the council...I have a very firm grasp on the world and kind of what to expect.
The ending of the book was the most compelling part of the story. I was finally interested and wanted to know more. What is in store for Pandora? Who is the Gray man? What happened to Billy? So many questions but no answers. The book spent a lot of the story line on sex, yet it was not really graphic, mainly factual, which I thought was interesting. This is not a romance even with the subject matter, it is an urban fantasy.I am not positive that I would recommend it to any one and I may read the next one, but I am not counting the minutes until it is available.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
This book was ok. It took sometime to get into it because it had a very slow start. The book did pick up about half way into it, and stayed consistently action packed until the end.
What really bothered me was the lack of character development. Pandora was kind of a blah character. We did not really get to know anything about her except that she needed sex. Most of the story line dealt with her desires, what she liked, what shape she took on , what the guy she was sleeping with looked like, what she wore...But nothing about who she is or what she wants (besides sex). Yes I get she houses Lust inside her, but can't she she more than that?
The one thing that the book did really well was world building. I understood the demons, the factions of supernatural, the carnival, the council...I have a very firm grasp on the world and kind of what to expect.
The ending of the book was the most compelling part of the story. I was finally interested and wanted to know more. What is in store for Pandora? Who is the Gray man? What happened to Billy? So many questions but no answers. The book spent a lot of the story line on sex, yet it was not really graphic, mainly factual, which I thought was interesting. This is not a romance even with the subject matter, it is an urban fantasy.I am not positive that I would recommend it to any one and I may read the next one, but I am not counting the minutes until it is available.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2013
I usually only give 5 stars to books I know I’ll re-read and this one is no exception. This is an excellent first book to a series. The first part of the book is devoted to character introduction and world building. Not only are the MCs fully developed; I got to know and like the secondary characters and their unique personalities. I spent a summer working for a traveling carnival when I was young (great way to see the south) and Marie Hall brings Carnivale Diabolique to life. I could see and smell the midway. I fell into the story from page one and didn’t put it down until I finished it really late at night. I loved everything about this story from the plot and characters to the fact that the writing was faultless (to my eyes anyway). The pacing was quick and perfect for the book.
Pandora is one of the strongest paranormal heroines I’ve read in a while. Don’t get me wrong she has her issues to deal with, anyone of her age and having another to share your mind and body would. Pandora also sees herself as weak at times and she’s so far from it.
The mystery/suspense kept me turning the pages. It wasn’t so easy to figure out and it was just enough angst to keep me on the edge, but not so much that it got frustrating. The sex was well done with the right amount of detail that it was very hot and steamy without overwhelming the rest of the book.
I’m impatiently waiting for the story to continue. I recommend this to anyone looking for a well written paranormal that will have you laughing and then tearing up at times this is the one for you.
(Received a copy from author/netgalley for an honest review.)
Darker Passions
Pandora is one of the strongest paranormal heroines I’ve read in a while. Don’t get me wrong she has her issues to deal with, anyone of her age and having another to share your mind and body would. Pandora also sees herself as weak at times and she’s so far from it.
The mystery/suspense kept me turning the pages. It wasn’t so easy to figure out and it was just enough angst to keep me on the edge, but not so much that it got frustrating. The sex was well done with the right amount of detail that it was very hot and steamy without overwhelming the rest of the book.
I’m impatiently waiting for the story to continue. I recommend this to anyone looking for a well written paranormal that will have you laughing and then tearing up at times this is the one for you.
(Received a copy from author/netgalley for an honest review.)
Darker Passions
March 24, 2015
This book had a strong beginning but ended as a hot mess. The premise is good, the world is interesting and the narrative voice is good, but it has some serious issues.
There are some editing problems, missed words, wrong words and several sentences I had to read more than once to figure out what the author meant. Nothing was misspelled, but spell check is a tricky twit and will often 'fix' a misspelled word into the wrong word, which is what these errors look like to me.
The characters are interesting but a little schizophrenic for my taste. They go from one strong emotion to another in a seemingly random fashion. There are only a few characters that seem to have a consistent personality, everyone else is a random fun-bag of emotional instability. This might make sense with beings who are half demon, but they are millennia old, you'd think they'd have gotten that under control by now and in fact, in the beginning of the book, the MC says just that.
The climax made zero sense to me. A key to a good book is consistent world building and making sure the reader knows the rules of your world. Crap was happening in the climax that I did not understand at all, that just came out of nowhere. No set up, no foreshadowing, no letting the reader know that half of what happened was possible, it was just a crap storm of events that seemed completely random.
I have to say I was disappointed becasue the beginning was quite interesting and hooked me, but it just wasn't consistent. This book could have been very good if it was worked on a bit more.
There are some editing problems, missed words, wrong words and several sentences I had to read more than once to figure out what the author meant. Nothing was misspelled, but spell check is a tricky twit and will often 'fix' a misspelled word into the wrong word, which is what these errors look like to me.
The characters are interesting but a little schizophrenic for my taste. They go from one strong emotion to another in a seemingly random fashion. There are only a few characters that seem to have a consistent personality, everyone else is a random fun-bag of emotional instability. This might make sense with beings who are half demon, but they are millennia old, you'd think they'd have gotten that under control by now and in fact, in the beginning of the book, the MC says just that.
The climax made zero sense to me. A key to a good book is consistent world building and making sure the reader knows the rules of your world. Crap was happening in the climax that I did not understand at all, that just came out of nowhere. No set up, no foreshadowing, no letting the reader know that half of what happened was possible, it was just a crap storm of events that seemed completely random.
I have to say I was disappointed becasue the beginning was quite interesting and hooked me, but it just wasn't consistent. This book could have been very good if it was worked on a bit more.
September 20, 2014
Gave up half way through....
I think this book needs a few proof reads, further character development and more explanation required into the world. I didn't really understand it and was too bored to read further to see if there was further explanation.
Great concept and more could be done with the story if a good critiquing publisher got their hands onto it.
I think this book needs a few proof reads, further character development and more explanation required into the world. I didn't really understand it and was too bored to read further to see if there was further explanation.
Great concept and more could be done with the story if a good critiquing publisher got their hands onto it.
August 25, 2013
I received this book (ARC) in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal).
Warning!!! It may contain spoilers!
What?! Why?! What..?!?!?
Oh my God, you couldn't possibly have left me like this!?! You're trying to kill me with curiousity! That's just not fair! Now I can't wait to have the next book of this series in my hands! I NEED to read it and know what will happen next! Who's the guy at the end that's gonna return? Is it a good guy or one of the bad? Is it Kemen or Billy? I can't understand whether this guy has good intentions or bad.
I admit, when I first started reading this book I thought I was going to give it a low rate for it didn't seem all that good from what I was reading in those first pages. I thought "Mmmm, I'm afraid this book will disappoint me". I was sure I wouldn't even like the main character, Pandora. But then.... Wow! It started getting more and more interesting and intriguing and I was fascinated by this unique world that was both creepy and mysterious.
I liked Pandora most of th time, although it took me a little while to really get her character. At first I thought she'd be a cold blooded b@astard of a demon. But found out she actually had a soft heart deep inside. She just felt the need to defend herself from pain and was afraid of getting hurt and her heart broken again. I understood her. And I felt a connection with her. Although I didn't understand her attraction to Billy. And I still don't know who the hell is this guy and if he's good news or bad. I honestly thought he was creepy and sadistic. I guess we'll have more information on him and on this prophecy and everything else in the next book (which I hope will come out soon).
I Liked Luc half the time. The other half he actually scared me and annoyed me. he was cute and kind of sexy and sweet one moment, then kind ofcreepy in the next. I liked him, until I knew what he'd done to Pandora in the past. And I'm still trying to understand what the hell was that for!?!?!!!
I think Kemen was the only character I actually, totally, truly liked. Or better, loved. He was the cutest and sweetest thing ever known. I wasn't intrigued at first, but then when I got to know him better and saw him with Dora, I thought "Aww! He's sweet! They're so cute together!" I sincerely kind of hoped there was more than friendship and family love between them. And I was so shocked and disappointed and sad when what-I can't-tell-you happened! I was reading and mentally screaming "No! no! NO!!!" I might be a little crazy and too much of a dreamer, but I hope he'll somehow come back one day. In the next book.
This book blew my mind! it was so good!
You have me there, baby! Dying to read the next book and know what will happen and what's this prophecy about and who's the guy in the shadows at the end of this book.
Note for the author: Oh please, don't keep me here waiting too long for Book #2!!!
Warning!!! It may contain spoilers!
What?! Why?! What..?!?!?
Oh my God, you couldn't possibly have left me like this!?! You're trying to kill me with curiousity! That's just not fair! Now I can't wait to have the next book of this series in my hands! I NEED to read it and know what will happen next! Who's the guy at the end that's gonna return? Is it a good guy or one of the bad? Is it Kemen or Billy? I can't understand whether this guy has good intentions or bad.
I admit, when I first started reading this book I thought I was going to give it a low rate for it didn't seem all that good from what I was reading in those first pages. I thought "Mmmm, I'm afraid this book will disappoint me". I was sure I wouldn't even like the main character, Pandora. But then.... Wow! It started getting more and more interesting and intriguing and I was fascinated by this unique world that was both creepy and mysterious.
I liked Pandora most of th time, although it took me a little while to really get her character. At first I thought she'd be a cold blooded b@astard of a demon. But found out she actually had a soft heart deep inside. She just felt the need to defend herself from pain and was afraid of getting hurt and her heart broken again. I understood her. And I felt a connection with her. Although I didn't understand her attraction to Billy. And I still don't know who the hell is this guy and if he's good news or bad. I honestly thought he was creepy and sadistic. I guess we'll have more information on him and on this prophecy and everything else in the next book (which I hope will come out soon).
I Liked Luc half the time. The other half he actually scared me and annoyed me. he was cute and kind of sexy and sweet one moment, then kind ofcreepy in the next. I liked him, until I knew what he'd done to Pandora in the past. And I'm still trying to understand what the hell was that for!?!?!!!
I think Kemen was the only character I actually, totally, truly liked. Or better, loved. He was the cutest and sweetest thing ever known. I wasn't intrigued at first, but then when I got to know him better and saw him with Dora, I thought "Aww! He's sweet! They're so cute together!" I sincerely kind of hoped there was more than friendship and family love between them. And I was so shocked and disappointed and sad when what-I can't-tell-you happened! I was reading and mentally screaming "No! no! NO!!!" I might be a little crazy and too much of a dreamer, but I hope he'll somehow come back one day. In the next book.
This book blew my mind! it was so good!
You have me there, baby! Dying to read the next book and know what will happen and what's this prophecy about and who's the guy in the shadows at the end of this book.
Note for the author: Oh please, don't keep me here waiting too long for Book #2!!!
October 5, 2014
I went on a slight buying rampage on Amazon the other day and came across loads of box sets for £0.77 so I didn't even read the descriptions as I clicked buy buy buy on them all. Which is kind of like grabbing clothes off the shelves in a shop and buying without checking the size. But this book was my size! ish..
Okay, so this book was in the box set labelled 'Magic After Dark Boxed Set' and is centred around a girl/demon called Pandora. I completely fell in love with this idea as soon as I started reading, because it's set in a carnival, and I just adore those :) so this carnival is run by a band of demons, catering to most forms of sin, lust, sloth etc, every member of this eccentric demon family is beautiful and flawless, which is party of why this carnival does so well. i had no idea going in, what kind of story this was going to be, it was smutty, but delicious smut with such a powerful storyline that it worked. So often I read a book where detailed sex scenes dominate any potential story line, the author focuses solely on perfect the description of erect nipples it's essentially just ye olde porn, but this book had the perfect balance, it contained the smut, without going over descriptive and taking away from the plot. Which was awesome b-t-dubs.
So we have 2 leads love interests...sort of..maybe..hmm...we have 'Billy' the priest trying to kill Pandora every 5 minutes but never really working up the gall to do it, does stab her a few times though...and we have Luc, the demon hot stuff Pandora grew up with that doesn't do the touchy feely stuff, but man he has a jealous side. So they're sort of love interests, but not in the conventional way that gives you the warm and fuzzies over the up and coming happy ending.
Vampires (which are described and portrayed as a weak species here, and I'm looovviinnggg it, it's about time) are on the rise and causing trouble, so Pandora goes full on Sherlock Holmes and starts digging, with the help of Grace (a spunky Irish elderly lady working to bring and keep the peace between the forever tipping scales of good and evil) Luc and occasionally dear old Billy. I'm still not 100% sure which team I'm waving the heartthrob flag for here...it depends what happens, but as I'm in the box set of mixed books, it will probably be a while before I pick up the sequel (but it's definitely going in my to read pile)
This book was really well written, and despite all the demons being inhumanly beautiful, it was stated as a fact and never really lingered upon in a vain way, which was nice. I knocked a star purely because there were parts of the book that had me biting my knuckles so that I didn't either throw up or launch my kindle through the window like it was infected. It was downright awful, but I'm squeamish about either children or animals being hurt.
All in all, Marie Hall has a seriously addicted fan girl right now!
Okay, so this book was in the box set labelled 'Magic After Dark Boxed Set' and is centred around a girl/demon called Pandora. I completely fell in love with this idea as soon as I started reading, because it's set in a carnival, and I just adore those :) so this carnival is run by a band of demons, catering to most forms of sin, lust, sloth etc, every member of this eccentric demon family is beautiful and flawless, which is party of why this carnival does so well. i had no idea going in, what kind of story this was going to be, it was smutty, but delicious smut with such a powerful storyline that it worked. So often I read a book where detailed sex scenes dominate any potential story line, the author focuses solely on perfect the description of erect nipples it's essentially just ye olde porn, but this book had the perfect balance, it contained the smut, without going over descriptive and taking away from the plot. Which was awesome b-t-dubs.
So we have 2 leads love interests...sort of..maybe..hmm...we have 'Billy' the priest trying to kill Pandora every 5 minutes but never really working up the gall to do it, does stab her a few times though...and we have Luc, the demon hot stuff Pandora grew up with that doesn't do the touchy feely stuff, but man he has a jealous side. So they're sort of love interests, but not in the conventional way that gives you the warm and fuzzies over the up and coming happy ending.
Vampires (which are described and portrayed as a weak species here, and I'm looovviinnggg it, it's about time) are on the rise and causing trouble, so Pandora goes full on Sherlock Holmes and starts digging, with the help of Grace (a spunky Irish elderly lady working to bring and keep the peace between the forever tipping scales of good and evil) Luc and occasionally dear old Billy. I'm still not 100% sure which team I'm waving the heartthrob flag for here...it depends what happens, but as I'm in the box set of mixed books, it will probably be a while before I pick up the sequel (but it's definitely going in my to read pile)
This book was really well written, and despite all the demons being inhumanly beautiful, it was stated as a fact and never really lingered upon in a vain way, which was nice. I knocked a star purely because there were parts of the book that had me biting my knuckles so that I didn't either throw up or launch my kindle through the window like it was infected. It was downright awful, but I'm squeamish about either children or animals being hurt.
All in all, Marie Hall has a seriously addicted fan girl right now!
November 2, 2013
Crimson Night takes place at a dark, twisted kind of carnival, where one can easily be lured in by all the beautiful people... So lured in that they never quite leave. Pandora, half human, half demon of Lust, tries to be normal despite her setting, clinging for the humane half of her. She works doing what she does best- killing paranormal creatures lilke vampires and werewolves. But something dark is lurking in the shadows, and it chills even her- will she be able to take them once betrayed?
----
This is my first Marie Hall book outside of the Kingdom Series, and I was definitely not disappointed.
Pandora was a really likable character. For one, being a slayer made her pretty bad ass, and it's a nice change from the recent onslaught of damsel in distress novels. A big part of why I liked her was because she was always trying to find her humanity. It added depth to her, and it was needed.
One thing I know from reading the Kingdom Series is that Marie Hall has great skill in creating a world that entrances and intrigues the reader. Crimson Night follows in this tradition. The carnival was a really cool place to read about, and I was immediately drawn in to the story.
Another thing about this book that I enjoyed was the steamy aspect. I appreciated that it wasn't a sticky sweet romance, and catered to Pandora's demon of lust half. I also liked that it wasn't a focal point of the story- it's not a book about only a relationship, it's a book that contains a relationship.
I was engrossed in the story from cover to cover, and I definitely wasn't expecting it to end as it did. I will definitely need to pick up the next book in the series once it becomes available. My enjoyment of this book shows that Marie Hall is the real, and she's become one of my auto-read authors.
Thanks to Marie Hall and Netgalley for my chance to read this. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
----
This is my first Marie Hall book outside of the Kingdom Series, and I was definitely not disappointed.
Pandora was a really likable character. For one, being a slayer made her pretty bad ass, and it's a nice change from the recent onslaught of damsel in distress novels. A big part of why I liked her was because she was always trying to find her humanity. It added depth to her, and it was needed.
One thing I know from reading the Kingdom Series is that Marie Hall has great skill in creating a world that entrances and intrigues the reader. Crimson Night follows in this tradition. The carnival was a really cool place to read about, and I was immediately drawn in to the story.
Another thing about this book that I enjoyed was the steamy aspect. I appreciated that it wasn't a sticky sweet romance, and catered to Pandora's demon of lust half. I also liked that it wasn't a focal point of the story- it's not a book about only a relationship, it's a book that contains a relationship.
I was engrossed in the story from cover to cover, and I definitely wasn't expecting it to end as it did. I will definitely need to pick up the next book in the series once it becomes available. My enjoyment of this book shows that Marie Hall is the real, and she's become one of my auto-read authors.
Thanks to Marie Hall and Netgalley for my chance to read this. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
August 21, 2013
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side!
Firstly I would like to thank Marie Hall, author of Crimson Night and Lovers of Paranormal group of 'Goodreads' for giving me this wonderful opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
The heroine of this book is a Nephilim! (No need to gasp aloud, you heard me right fellas!) The story is just ooh-ahh and freakishly awesome! I really loved the plot and the characters with all my heart!
The most exciting and interesting thing are the carnivals and I bet that you all would enjoy it as well.
The writing is flawless and totally fabulous which helped me in connecting myself with the characters and experience the whole story!
The suspense really made me impatient and I really worked hard to control my habit of peeking at the last chapters before I even cross halfway through the story and really chomped on my nails in anticipation!
The action scenes are great and will sent chills down your spine as well. All in all a great and must read! Enjoy guys!
Firstly I would like to thank Marie Hall, author of Crimson Night and Lovers of Paranormal group of 'Goodreads' for giving me this wonderful opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
The heroine of this book is a Nephilim! (No need to gasp aloud, you heard me right fellas!) The story is just ooh-ahh and freakishly awesome! I really loved the plot and the characters with all my heart!
The most exciting and interesting thing are the carnivals and I bet that you all would enjoy it as well.
The writing is flawless and totally fabulous which helped me in connecting myself with the characters and experience the whole story!
The suspense really made me impatient and I really worked hard to control my habit of peeking at the last chapters before I even cross halfway through the story and really chomped on my nails in anticipation!
The action scenes are great and will sent chills down your spine as well. All in all a great and must read! Enjoy guys!
July 22, 2017
I saw the cover and I thought 'hmm I'll give it a try'. And literally, don't judge book by its cover because the cover is amazing but inside, there's nothing to be impressed by. I mean the plot is really interesting and original but the writing style is awful! I read 20% of it and I really wanted to finish but whenever I tried to read another chapter, I struggled... Maybe my will is not strong enough for this book.
November 4, 2013
Good book. Nicely dark and gritty, interesting milieu, badass heroine, and sexy dangerous battle-priest hero (swoon). Can't ask for more than that. :)
May 30, 2017
I read a lot about witches and vampires, but not much about demons. That being said, this was an interesting take on demons because they are half demon (mainly Sins in this one) and half human so their personalities sometimes war within themselves. Our main character is Pandora who is also half Lust, so I get that she feeds off sex and desire, but the sex scenes (while milder than some other books I've read) are just not for me. I did like the Kemen character whose half demon is Sloth (he was a nice change of pace).
While it took a little while to get to the meat of the story, once it got going it was pretty good. I did suspect some of the characters were not what they seemed (they weren't), but was also surprised by a betrayal as well, so it kept me on my toes. While I'd like to know what happens next (there are a lot of unanswered questions), the author mentioned in her notes that the next book is about zombies and I am NOT a fan of zombies, so I probably won't read it. Is there a Cliff's Notes version? If so, guess I could still find out and then move on with the series.
While it took a little while to get to the meat of the story, once it got going it was pretty good. I did suspect some of the characters were not what they seemed (they weren't), but was also surprised by a betrayal as well, so it kept me on my toes. While I'd like to know what happens next (there are a lot of unanswered questions), the author mentioned in her notes that the next book is about zombies and I am NOT a fan of zombies, so I probably won't read it. Is there a Cliff's Notes version? If so, guess I could still find out and then move on with the series.
August 6, 2017
This Review and others by Berls at Fantasy is More Fun
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
My Initial Reaction...
Wow! I came to Crimson Night expecting a fun, sexy read with a bit of action. What I got was one hell of an emotional, action-packed, mysterious ride! I've just finished and I'm left with that feeling of shock and emotional distress that only comes when you finish a truly great book.
The Characters...
Pandora makes Crimson Night beautifully complex. Pandora is a Nephilim, which in her case means she shares her body with the demon aptly named Lust. Describing herself, Pandora says that within her body "beats one heart and two souls." That couldn't be a more perfect description of Pandora. She may have a demon within her, but it doesn't take long to realize that the demon is Lust, not Pandora. Lust may have extended her otherwise human life to thousands of years and she may need sex to survive because of Lust, but Pandora is most definitely not the demon. In fact, one of the things I loved most about this book is the way Pandora is battling that side of herself. She has Lust in her and she knows she can't deny that part of herself, but she also refuses to deny her more human tendencies, like emotion, love, and a distaste for killing. But Lust has also made Pandora one kick-ass chic. She's strong and has some really awesome abilities (like the ability to transform into the object of anyone's desire). Yep, I love Pandora.
There's a great cast of supporting characters as well - and regardless of how much or how little time a character gets, I have to say I felt like they were important. I think that adds to the mystery, since Pandora suspects she has traitors in her midst and every character gets just enough attention to make you suspect each and every one of them. I'd love to talk about some of my favorites but I think to do that would potentially ruin that aspect of the mystery, so I'll just say I grew incredibly attached to some of these characters and it really snuck up on me that I cared about them.
The Story...
The plot of Crimson Night centers around of Nephilim (called Neph for short) who run a carnival. To the casual observer that's all it is, but for some that trip on the Ferris Wheel will be there last. But what's incredible about this group of Neph is that they're the good guys. Really! Yes, they're demons and yes they kill, but they kill those that need killing. Vampires. People who do bad things. They have basically one rule, don't hurt those with light in them. Okay, so some of those people we may have just stuck in jail, but you get the idea.
Anyway, they've been doing this for a long time - I'm not quite sure when the carnival started, but I got the sense we're talking hundreds of years - and Pandora notices that there's some things not quite right. Weird behaviors, more vampires daring to openly show up, and a priest shows up - the only thing Neph like Pandora fear, because you don't just walk away from a priest; you die. Except Pandora doesn't. And she doesn't know why he didn't kill her, just like she doesn't know why she feels attracted to him in a way that she's never - in 5000 years! - been attracted to man. All this combines to make one hell of a mystery that just keeps spiraling out of control.
The mystery may be the best aspect of this book. It's one of those books that has so many obvious possibilities floating in front of you that you think you know what's happening, but you don't trust that you do and every time a new element is introduced you trust your instincts even less. That is compounded by the fact that Pandora is so confused and you only know what she knows. I also loved that for a Lust demon the sex is not in your face the way you might expect. Yes there's sex - I mean, she's a Lust demon. But it's the sexual tension that's really great. And, like true Urban Fantasy, the sex/sexual tension is really a backdrop to the mystery and action. Oh and the action! We're talking some really great action moments!
I have to warn readers though that this is also a book that will mess with your emotions a bit. Some of the biggest mysteries in the book had me feeling super anxious, a little sick to my stomach, and eventually brought on some serious tears. I can't say much more than that without spoiling it, but be prepared. I think that those moments were really well written and were really essential to making this book so great, though; no way I'd want them cut. The really great books tear you up a bit, right?
Concluding Sentiments...
This book shocked the hell out of me over and over and is easily one of the best books I've read this year! A definite must for your TBR shelves!
Get it on Amazon for $3.99 Now
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
My Initial Reaction...
Wow! I came to Crimson Night expecting a fun, sexy read with a bit of action. What I got was one hell of an emotional, action-packed, mysterious ride! I've just finished and I'm left with that feeling of shock and emotional distress that only comes when you finish a truly great book.
The Characters...
Pandora makes Crimson Night beautifully complex. Pandora is a Nephilim, which in her case means she shares her body with the demon aptly named Lust. Describing herself, Pandora says that within her body "beats one heart and two souls." That couldn't be a more perfect description of Pandora. She may have a demon within her, but it doesn't take long to realize that the demon is Lust, not Pandora. Lust may have extended her otherwise human life to thousands of years and she may need sex to survive because of Lust, but Pandora is most definitely not the demon. In fact, one of the things I loved most about this book is the way Pandora is battling that side of herself. She has Lust in her and she knows she can't deny that part of herself, but she also refuses to deny her more human tendencies, like emotion, love, and a distaste for killing. But Lust has also made Pandora one kick-ass chic. She's strong and has some really awesome abilities (like the ability to transform into the object of anyone's desire). Yep, I love Pandora.
There's a great cast of supporting characters as well - and regardless of how much or how little time a character gets, I have to say I felt like they were important. I think that adds to the mystery, since Pandora suspects she has traitors in her midst and every character gets just enough attention to make you suspect each and every one of them. I'd love to talk about some of my favorites but I think to do that would potentially ruin that aspect of the mystery, so I'll just say I grew incredibly attached to some of these characters and it really snuck up on me that I cared about them.
The Story...
The plot of Crimson Night centers around of Nephilim (called Neph for short) who run a carnival. To the casual observer that's all it is, but for some that trip on the Ferris Wheel will be there last. But what's incredible about this group of Neph is that they're the good guys. Really! Yes, they're demons and yes they kill, but they kill those that need killing. Vampires. People who do bad things. They have basically one rule, don't hurt those with light in them. Okay, so some of those people we may have just stuck in jail, but you get the idea.
Anyway, they've been doing this for a long time - I'm not quite sure when the carnival started, but I got the sense we're talking hundreds of years - and Pandora notices that there's some things not quite right. Weird behaviors, more vampires daring to openly show up, and a priest shows up - the only thing Neph like Pandora fear, because you don't just walk away from a priest; you die. Except Pandora doesn't. And she doesn't know why he didn't kill her, just like she doesn't know why she feels attracted to him in a way that she's never - in 5000 years! - been attracted to man. All this combines to make one hell of a mystery that just keeps spiraling out of control.
The mystery may be the best aspect of this book. It's one of those books that has so many obvious possibilities floating in front of you that you think you know what's happening, but you don't trust that you do and every time a new element is introduced you trust your instincts even less. That is compounded by the fact that Pandora is so confused and you only know what she knows. I also loved that for a Lust demon the sex is not in your face the way you might expect. Yes there's sex - I mean, she's a Lust demon. But it's the sexual tension that's really great. And, like true Urban Fantasy, the sex/sexual tension is really a backdrop to the mystery and action. Oh and the action! We're talking some really great action moments!
I have to warn readers though that this is also a book that will mess with your emotions a bit. Some of the biggest mysteries in the book had me feeling super anxious, a little sick to my stomach, and eventually brought on some serious tears. I can't say much more than that without spoiling it, but be prepared. I think that those moments were really well written and were really essential to making this book so great, though; no way I'd want them cut. The really great books tear you up a bit, right?
Concluding Sentiments...
This book shocked the hell out of me over and over and is easily one of the best books I've read this year! A definite must for your TBR shelves!
Get it on Amazon for $3.99 Now
October 7, 2018
Hmmm. Ok I started off really liking this series. I’ve read demon possessed stories before and really liked them. Honestly though I started off really liking Pandora as the book progressed I started liking her less and less. She is always getting beat up...a lot. She just keeps trucking along which I guess is admirable but dang girl learn from your mistakes and stop letting people manipulate you.
It was seriously frustrating that everyone was keeping secrets, that could have saved everyone but no...everyone gotta sit on their dirty laundry. So irritating. They expect Pandora to do everything..
If I wasn’t so dang frustrated with this series I would have given it 4 stars..maybe. I just can’t get over the fact that after all that drama and action we still have no freaking clue what is going on. I’ll probably read the next one just to see if we get some answers.
It was seriously frustrating that everyone was keeping secrets, that could have saved everyone but no...everyone gotta sit on their dirty laundry. So irritating. They expect Pandora to do everything..
If I wasn’t so dang frustrated with this series I would have given it 4 stars..maybe. I just can’t get over the fact that after all that drama and action we still have no freaking clue what is going on. I’ll probably read the next one just to see if we get some answers.
September 5, 2013
Death and the Crimson Night by Marie Hall
In a carnival of demons, the Carnival Diabolique – “the world’s greatest traveling show” - Pandora runs the Ferris wheel. She frequently watches the humans and meditates about how much they disgust her. Pandora is more than 5,000 years old and is only half-demon. She’s unlike most of the others in her troupe in that she does have a large knot of goodness locked inside her that she isn’t afraid to show.
There are no fat, greasy, disgusting carnies with this group. They are all beautiful and show themselves off for the crowd. This is a carnival of the dark side. Here you can get your drugs, alcohol, and strippers all in one night or even at one time.
Realistically though, the carnival is a cover for these creatures of the dark – of all kinds. Pandora has two souls. Hers and Lust – a demon. Lust must be fed sex to be kept under control. Thus it is with each of the creatures working the carnival. The food they need is provided by the customers of the carnival, the prey. But they only killed those who were evil, never those who carried the light.
Pandora finds herself unnaturally attracted to one customer, Billy. That is fine, or would have been except Billy is what the demons and other supernaturals call a “priest.” The priest’s duties is to kill all supernatural creatures and he is very, very good at his duties. This priest has been following Pandora for quite some time. And this is only the beginning of the mystery.
Marie Hall has an engrossing writing style that keeps the reader turning pages, wanting to know what happens to her characters. While it would have been nice to know more of the backgrounds of each of the key characters, the book is written in a way that is clear those details are forthcoming and are part of the overall mystery.
The world building could have been a bit more complete, but there was so much going on, something had to give, and the world building was probably the least important of everything else. Again, this is something the author will probably elaborate on in future books in the series. This part of the “world”, was focused primarily on the carnival and the world surrounding the characters who lived and worked there.
I loved the idea of two souls occupying one body and having to keep the other half “fed” in order to maintain control. Hall definitely made this portion of the story clear. She has introduced a new breed of supernatural creatures and provided a much-needed break from the overdone clichés of everyday creatures.
The book is chock full of intrigue, betrayal, sadness, and mystery on top of mystery. If you think you’ll find all the answers inside these very well-written pages… you’ll just have to read the book to find out, won’t you?
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from LoP (Lovers of Paranormal).
In a carnival of demons, the Carnival Diabolique – “the world’s greatest traveling show” - Pandora runs the Ferris wheel. She frequently watches the humans and meditates about how much they disgust her. Pandora is more than 5,000 years old and is only half-demon. She’s unlike most of the others in her troupe in that she does have a large knot of goodness locked inside her that she isn’t afraid to show.
There are no fat, greasy, disgusting carnies with this group. They are all beautiful and show themselves off for the crowd. This is a carnival of the dark side. Here you can get your drugs, alcohol, and strippers all in one night or even at one time.
Realistically though, the carnival is a cover for these creatures of the dark – of all kinds. Pandora has two souls. Hers and Lust – a demon. Lust must be fed sex to be kept under control. Thus it is with each of the creatures working the carnival. The food they need is provided by the customers of the carnival, the prey. But they only killed those who were evil, never those who carried the light.
Pandora finds herself unnaturally attracted to one customer, Billy. That is fine, or would have been except Billy is what the demons and other supernaturals call a “priest.” The priest’s duties is to kill all supernatural creatures and he is very, very good at his duties. This priest has been following Pandora for quite some time. And this is only the beginning of the mystery.
Marie Hall has an engrossing writing style that keeps the reader turning pages, wanting to know what happens to her characters. While it would have been nice to know more of the backgrounds of each of the key characters, the book is written in a way that is clear those details are forthcoming and are part of the overall mystery.
The world building could have been a bit more complete, but there was so much going on, something had to give, and the world building was probably the least important of everything else. Again, this is something the author will probably elaborate on in future books in the series. This part of the “world”, was focused primarily on the carnival and the world surrounding the characters who lived and worked there.
I loved the idea of two souls occupying one body and having to keep the other half “fed” in order to maintain control. Hall definitely made this portion of the story clear. She has introduced a new breed of supernatural creatures and provided a much-needed break from the overdone clichés of everyday creatures.
The book is chock full of intrigue, betrayal, sadness, and mystery on top of mystery. If you think you’ll find all the answers inside these very well-written pages… you’ll just have to read the book to find out, won’t you?
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from LoP (Lovers of Paranormal).
August 27, 2013
*I received a free copy of this book from the author through Lovers of Paranormal in exchange for an honest review*
Pandora is half human half demon and works with others of her kind at a carnival, using people to satisfy their demon desires. Pandora's demon is Lust and has an uneasy relationship with her. A priest is trying to kill her and evil vampires are running a club with evil intent which she is instructed to investigate. With warnings from a strange being to trust nobody so who can Pandora depend on?
I liked Pandora as she was tough and feisty, and her relationship with Lust was interesting. There was an interesting mix of half demons like Kemen who was half sloth and Bubba who was a total psycho! I wasn't too keen on Luc who was a bit of a spoiled brat as well as being a bully. My first impression of him was that he was horrible to Pandora and she deserved better. He grew on me a bit as the book progressed though Kemen was certainly my favourite. I wasn't exactly enamoured by Billy either as he was also cruel with all the game playing. Run off with Kemen, girl! Grace and Mary were amusing with their interactions and GM was intriguing.
The plot was a bit heavy on the sex for my personal taste but I knew this in advance so it wasn't a problem. I liked the Carnival setting and the action scenes around the club where we see Lust at work, and see the good side of Pandora. There were enough twists and turns in the plot to keep you interested. The big reveal was obvious, especially to anyone who made the mistake of reading the Goodreads blurb, like I did! Don't read it as it gives a massive clue to the identity of the traitor and I knew very quickly who was being referred to when Pandora was talking about the people who mattered to her. That was a huge bummer and did spoil the book a bit but that's not the author's fault so I would never mark it down for that.
A few personal niggles about the characters and plot were the only issues I had at times, and that is common in reading any book. The writing style was good, it wasn't full of spelling mistakes(not that I noticed anyway!) and the plot kept moving forward.
There was enough in this book to interest me and I will probably want to read the next book to see what happens. The book will suit adult readers of paranormal romance and erotic paranormal, as well as most urban fantasy readers. Naturally there is plenty sexual content and adult themes so be advised!
Pandora is half human half demon and works with others of her kind at a carnival, using people to satisfy their demon desires. Pandora's demon is Lust and has an uneasy relationship with her. A priest is trying to kill her and evil vampires are running a club with evil intent which she is instructed to investigate. With warnings from a strange being to trust nobody so who can Pandora depend on?
I liked Pandora as she was tough and feisty, and her relationship with Lust was interesting. There was an interesting mix of half demons like Kemen who was half sloth and Bubba who was a total psycho! I wasn't too keen on Luc who was a bit of a spoiled brat as well as being a bully. My first impression of him was that he was horrible to Pandora and she deserved better. He grew on me a bit as the book progressed though Kemen was certainly my favourite. I wasn't exactly enamoured by Billy either as he was also cruel with all the game playing. Run off with Kemen, girl! Grace and Mary were amusing with their interactions and GM was intriguing.
The plot was a bit heavy on the sex for my personal taste but I knew this in advance so it wasn't a problem. I liked the Carnival setting and the action scenes around the club where we see Lust at work, and see the good side of Pandora. There were enough twists and turns in the plot to keep you interested. The big reveal was obvious, especially to anyone who made the mistake of reading the Goodreads blurb, like I did! Don't read it as it gives a massive clue to the identity of the traitor and I knew very quickly who was being referred to when Pandora was talking about the people who mattered to her. That was a huge bummer and did spoil the book a bit but that's not the author's fault so I would never mark it down for that.
A few personal niggles about the characters and plot were the only issues I had at times, and that is common in reading any book. The writing style was good, it wasn't full of spelling mistakes(not that I noticed anyway!) and the plot kept moving forward.
There was enough in this book to interest me and I will probably want to read the next book to see what happens. The book will suit adult readers of paranormal romance and erotic paranormal, as well as most urban fantasy readers. Naturally there is plenty sexual content and adult themes so be advised!
April 6, 2014
Meet Pandora she and the rest of her Carnival family are half demons. Each of them share their existence with a demon, the demons each personify one of the seven deadly sins. Pandora is possessed by Lust.
The premise is interesting, I was excited to visit another dark circus and wander the the night listening to it's siren's call, smelling the dust and the food wares while the lights swirled around me and the residents lured me to their booths. Not exactly what happened. The circus is a convenient way for them to be gypsies basically, the story lies else where.
Dora is centuries old, she seemed smart and sassy, confident and dangerous. I was a little disappointed.
I stood and planted my hands on my hip, glowering at him. "You aren't the boss of me. And I am not putting that,' I stressed with repugnance, pointing at the hideous dress, 'on."
You aren't the boss of me? Well little girl I guess he was.
The interactions between the Nephilim seemed childish and flat. They have spent lifetimes together. Their own inner demons and their agreement with the order, to do 'good', of course will keep them off balance but I just wasn't feeling it.
There was a little forbidden heat thrown in with the big 'bad' Priest hunting Dora. She wants him, she shouldn't, she CANT oh but she want to. I am a sucker for sexual tension.
Dora is tasked with figuring out who the rogue Neph is in the family. There seems to be a nest of vampires (people who have sold their soul to the devil). It is organized and there seems to be a leader.
There are red herrings and it isn't as simple as you would think. I had my suspicions but in the end I hadn't worked out the whole story.
About 90% of the way through it glared at my Kindle asking it: What. Just. Happened.
It was confusing. So much going on, falling apart, Dora was out of it so the narration fell to pieces. It seemed like the most important part of the book but it just ended up being a mess.
It was all kind of cleared up with the last 10% of the book but it left me quite unsatisfied.
Over all I enjoyed the book. It was easy to read, I did fall in love with one of the characters (ah sloth you cutie) and I wasn't left hanging off a huge cliff.
I have the second book, a gift from the author through Lovers of Paranormal in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to some character development.
The premise is interesting, I was excited to visit another dark circus and wander the the night listening to it's siren's call, smelling the dust and the food wares while the lights swirled around me and the residents lured me to their booths. Not exactly what happened. The circus is a convenient way for them to be gypsies basically, the story lies else where.
Dora is centuries old, she seemed smart and sassy, confident and dangerous. I was a little disappointed.
I stood and planted my hands on my hip, glowering at him. "You aren't the boss of me. And I am not putting that,' I stressed with repugnance, pointing at the hideous dress, 'on."
You aren't the boss of me? Well little girl I guess he was.
The interactions between the Nephilim seemed childish and flat. They have spent lifetimes together. Their own inner demons and their agreement with the order, to do 'good', of course will keep them off balance but I just wasn't feeling it.
There was a little forbidden heat thrown in with the big 'bad' Priest hunting Dora. She wants him, she shouldn't, she CANT oh but she want to. I am a sucker for sexual tension.
Dora is tasked with figuring out who the rogue Neph is in the family. There seems to be a nest of vampires (people who have sold their soul to the devil). It is organized and there seems to be a leader.
There are red herrings and it isn't as simple as you would think. I had my suspicions but in the end I hadn't worked out the whole story.
About 90% of the way through it glared at my Kindle asking it: What. Just. Happened.
It was confusing. So much going on, falling apart, Dora was out of it so the narration fell to pieces. It seemed like the most important part of the book but it just ended up being a mess.
It was all kind of cleared up with the last 10% of the book but it left me quite unsatisfied.
Over all I enjoyed the book. It was easy to read, I did fall in love with one of the characters (ah sloth you cutie) and I wasn't left hanging off a huge cliff.
I have the second book, a gift from the author through Lovers of Paranormal in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to some character development.
October 31, 2013
Originally posted at : http://eromantix.com/wordpress/
Ok so this is a bit of a different read for me. But I thought it was a great book for Halloween. I knew straight away it was going to be a dark, edgy read and on that level it didn't disappoint. I have read some of Marie Hall's books before which have been PNR heavy on the fantasy. She always comes up with different, interesting premises.
"Crimson Night" is completely from Pandora's point of view. That works well with the mystery, because you are questioning everybody else's motives. Not knowing what is really going on with Pandora's extended "family" around her. Sharing her body with the demon lust, sex is akin to food for Pandora. She needs it, and if denied the demon takes control and demands it. . That is quite a risky trait to give the female protagonist. Because it means that casual sex with different partners is part of her life style. Not that Marie Hall really goes into a lot of detail but Pandora's "hunger" and need to feed the demon is certainly addressed.
This is where I have to say this isn't a romance. I was kind of surprised by that, given that Marie Hall normally writes romance. Pandora shows love to her adopted family, but I didn't see any true love between her and any of her lovers ( or possible lovers). There was affection, attraction but not trust. So "Crimson Night" might be mystery, fantasy or horror. But not romance. Lust will change Pandora to look like her prey's every fantasy to make sex happen. I felt kind of hollow that even when she is in bed with her 'kind of 'boyfriend Luc, she became a busty blonde. Because he preferred someone different. Wouldn't that suck to think they didn't really want you.
Pandora tries so hard to retain her humanity and with out that I don't think she would be as likeable a character. Marie Hall does a good job of setting up a world and drawing you in. I can't find any mention of a sequel in the works but the way this ends there has to be one. So if you are looking for a read that's a bit dark, a bit different and doesn't tie everything up with a bow at the end then this could be a book for you.
Read on behalf of Authors HQ for an honest review
Ok so this is a bit of a different read for me. But I thought it was a great book for Halloween. I knew straight away it was going to be a dark, edgy read and on that level it didn't disappoint. I have read some of Marie Hall's books before which have been PNR heavy on the fantasy. She always comes up with different, interesting premises.
"Crimson Night" is completely from Pandora's point of view. That works well with the mystery, because you are questioning everybody else's motives. Not knowing what is really going on with Pandora's extended "family" around her. Sharing her body with the demon lust, sex is akin to food for Pandora. She needs it, and if denied the demon takes control and demands it. . That is quite a risky trait to give the female protagonist. Because it means that casual sex with different partners is part of her life style. Not that Marie Hall really goes into a lot of detail but Pandora's "hunger" and need to feed the demon is certainly addressed.
This is where I have to say this isn't a romance. I was kind of surprised by that, given that Marie Hall normally writes romance. Pandora shows love to her adopted family, but I didn't see any true love between her and any of her lovers ( or possible lovers). There was affection, attraction but not trust. So "Crimson Night" might be mystery, fantasy or horror. But not romance. Lust will change Pandora to look like her prey's every fantasy to make sex happen. I felt kind of hollow that even when she is in bed with her 'kind of 'boyfriend Luc, she became a busty blonde. Because he preferred someone different. Wouldn't that suck to think they didn't really want you.
Pandora tries so hard to retain her humanity and with out that I don't think she would be as likeable a character. Marie Hall does a good job of setting up a world and drawing you in. I can't find any mention of a sequel in the works but the way this ends there has to be one. So if you are looking for a read that's a bit dark, a bit different and doesn't tie everything up with a bow at the end then this could be a book for you.
Read on behalf of Authors HQ for an honest review
September 2, 2013
This is one action packed thrill of a read and I loved it. The world building is wonderful and well written. The characters are unique and fun to get to know in this wild and wacky world of Carnivale Diabolique. I was totally invested while reading and continually engaged with each little twist and surprise. Every time I was certain I knew what was going on, up popped a new surprise which left me with a craving that insisted I find out what was going to happen next. In this read we follow Pandora who is a bit of an anomaly being a half demon in a world where the supes have gone back into hiding in plain sight as carnies just trying to survive constantly moving from place to place. They have an alliance requiring them to fight and eliminate the unruly and destructive supes that do not abide by the rules and wreak havoc and bringing harm to the innocent. At first I did not know if I liked Pandora or not, but as the story progressed I became a true fan. She is strong and can be ruthless, but still has vulnerabilities that make her real and likeable. I was pretty much glued to the book and found I had to know what was going to happen next and was not disappointed. There are moments of wonder, surprise, betrayal, cruelty, and sorrow, but never ambivalence. I cannot wait to read more and am looking forward to the next installment. I requested this book from the author and received it with a request for my honest review without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book.
May 14, 2014
What a great book!!!! Crimson Night by Marie Hall was an interesting, faced-paced novel with great characters and a unique story line!
Pandora works at Carnivale Diabolique (also known as the circus of the damned). She is a Nephilim (part demon)- who also goes by the name Lust, one of the seven sins. She's forced to satisfy her demon's cravings with sex. I didn't care for the way lust was described - like a lion or something- but it was interesting nonetheless. Soon, vampires begin to flock to her city, prompting her to search for the truth, all while working with a dangerous Priest (known for killing her kind). What she finds is not only appalling, but twisted.
I loved this novel! Marie Hall had the perfect pacing and relatable characters. They were well-developed and intriguing. The action was plenty and the twists/turns were surprising.
The only drawback was the ending - all of a sudden, Pandora is dropped into Hell, along side other demons and is attracted to Wrath (one of the other seven deadly sins and a hot mega-demon). It felt like the ending just didn't tie into the story well enough, like it was "dropped" in. There was no foreshadowing or clues. All of a sudden, she's there and now she's a part of some Prophecy that was never touched on.
All in all, I loved this novel and already bought the second book in the series!
Pandora works at Carnivale Diabolique (also known as the circus of the damned). She is a Nephilim (part demon)- who also goes by the name Lust, one of the seven sins. She's forced to satisfy her demon's cravings with sex. I didn't care for the way lust was described - like a lion or something- but it was interesting nonetheless. Soon, vampires begin to flock to her city, prompting her to search for the truth, all while working with a dangerous Priest (known for killing her kind). What she finds is not only appalling, but twisted.
I loved this novel! Marie Hall had the perfect pacing and relatable characters. They were well-developed and intriguing. The action was plenty and the twists/turns were surprising.
The only drawback was the ending - all of a sudden, Pandora is dropped into Hell, along side other demons and is attracted to Wrath (one of the other seven deadly sins and a hot mega-demon). It felt like the ending just didn't tie into the story well enough, like it was "dropped" in. There was no foreshadowing or clues. All of a sudden, she's there and now she's a part of some Prophecy that was never touched on.
All in all, I loved this novel and already bought the second book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
The real strengths of this book come from the characters and the story. You have to really get involved and get to know both before the book really takes off. There’s a snowball affect here, as the story builds and builds and begins to really take shape it soon takes on a life of its own. A quarter of the way into the book, it sucked me in and I finished the other 75% in one sitting – I just couldn't put it down.
The main character, Pandora, is extremely likable and relatable – even if she is part demon. Her goals, her motivations - she’s someone you want to cheer on. The rest of the cast, from the Carnivale Diabolique and beyond, were also well-rounded and interesting - no cardboard characters here!
The sex elements and scenes were well written with just enough details to keep things hot, while the story itself twists and turns and builds to a breathtaking climax you never see coming. This is the first in the Night series, and after reading this one, I definitely can’t wait to read the next one.
The real strengths of this book come from the characters and the story. You have to really get involved and get to know both before the book really takes off. There’s a snowball affect here, as the story builds and builds and begins to really take shape it soon takes on a life of its own. A quarter of the way into the book, it sucked me in and I finished the other 75% in one sitting – I just couldn't put it down.
The main character, Pandora, is extremely likable and relatable – even if she is part demon. Her goals, her motivations - she’s someone you want to cheer on. The rest of the cast, from the Carnivale Diabolique and beyond, were also well-rounded and interesting - no cardboard characters here!
The sex elements and scenes were well written with just enough details to keep things hot, while the story itself twists and turns and builds to a breathtaking climax you never see coming. This is the first in the Night series, and after reading this one, I definitely can’t wait to read the next one.
February 10, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
I enjoyed the way this story was told in first person, I felt like Pandora was speaking directly to me. This is a paranormal story wrapped in a mystery. I enjoyed Pandora's character, she is part demon but she shows her humanity when necessary. The more I got involved in the story the more questions I had. I am not sure how I feel about Luc, I like him, I don't like him, I'm still undecided. He seems to sincerely care for Pandora but there is still something about him that leaves me questioning his true loyalty. The thing that intrigued me the most is Billy, the Priest. There has to be something more to him and I hope to find out more about that in the next book. This story was intense at times and pushed me forward to each next chapter. I am ready to jump right into the next book!
I enjoyed the way this story was told in first person, I felt like Pandora was speaking directly to me. This is a paranormal story wrapped in a mystery. I enjoyed Pandora's character, she is part demon but she shows her humanity when necessary. The more I got involved in the story the more questions I had. I am not sure how I feel about Luc, I like him, I don't like him, I'm still undecided. He seems to sincerely care for Pandora but there is still something about him that leaves me questioning his true loyalty. The thing that intrigued me the most is Billy, the Priest. There has to be something more to him and I hope to find out more about that in the next book. This story was intense at times and pushed me forward to each next chapter. I am ready to jump right into the next book!
May 9, 2014
Crimson Night is about Nephilims, nephilim slayers (th priests), vamps, zombies and what have you's. This book though gave something fresh when it started with introducing the nephs with the view of the seven deadly sins honed into their beings. The beginning was a little dragging for me but it gets better as the pages go. I found myself eventually engaged with all the characters with raw emotion and curiosity. I love Pandora's character the most. I love her sense of compassion and justice that overrode the darkness of being a half-demon. I also like how she embrace her being a human and not view it as a weakness. I think that was what actually made her strong.
Her past with Luc was something curious as well as what role does the priest really play. I'm looking forward to getting to know the characters more.
More reviews at: http://versusthewriter.wordpress.com
Her past with Luc was something curious as well as what role does the priest really play. I'm looking forward to getting to know the characters more.
More reviews at: http://versusthewriter.wordpress.com
August 21, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review for LoP. Pandora works for circus. She is a Nephilim. Luc has turn Pandora in a Nephilim because she was dying. She works at the ferris wheel where she meets Billy. Billy is a priest trying to help or hurt her. Pandora has lust and she needs to release it. Grace is the order and she is a traitor who want Pandora dead. Pandora has a gut feeling that something is wrong. She gets hurt and to heal it usually sex helps with Luc but this time is different she sleeps with Keeman. Keeman was a rogue supposed helping the vampire. Grace planted it and makes Pandora kill Keeman. The vampires are kidnapped children. Pandora wants to save them. I highly recommend this book.
September 1, 2014
I was given this book from Lovers of Paranormal and the author in exchange for an honest review. As always the opinions on this book are my own.
What perfection is this? First page, first paragraph I was ensnared in this novel and just couldn't put it down! The characters, the plot the descriptions of this book are flawless! I expect a lot out of the books that I read, and this one hit the mark 100% Even the cover is hot! I mean who could be a better heroine then Pandora? (Granted I LOVE the name and I have a thing for demon Nephilim). Either way this book is phenomenal and I can't wait to finish the rest of them (already working on book 2 review and reading book 3) ^_^ Thank you soooo much for allowing me to read this book!
What perfection is this? First page, first paragraph I was ensnared in this novel and just couldn't put it down! The characters, the plot the descriptions of this book are flawless! I expect a lot out of the books that I read, and this one hit the mark 100% Even the cover is hot! I mean who could be a better heroine then Pandora? (Granted I LOVE the name and I have a thing for demon Nephilim). Either way this book is phenomenal and I can't wait to finish the rest of them (already working on book 2 review and reading book 3) ^_^ Thank you soooo much for allowing me to read this book!
August 28, 2014
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)*
Crimson Night (book1)
By:Marie Hall
I love this book. It has everything vampire, niphilim, demons, priest and zombies. Is about this niphilim named Pandora trying to help the order ( a group of human trying to keep supernatural it check) with a vampire problem. She doesn't know who to trust when this unknown "person"/"thing" called GRAY MAN tells her "Friends you think you know, you don't. Enemies you think you have, you don't. Trust no one.". Pandora then started to suspect everyone but the person she trust and doesn't even thinks could be a suspect is the one who becomes Pandora's number one enemy!
If you like paranormal books then this is for you. :)
Crimson Night (book1)
By:Marie Hall
I love this book. It has everything vampire, niphilim, demons, priest and zombies. Is about this niphilim named Pandora trying to help the order ( a group of human trying to keep supernatural it check) with a vampire problem. She doesn't know who to trust when this unknown "person"/"thing" called GRAY MAN tells her "Friends you think you know, you don't. Enemies you think you have, you don't. Trust no one.". Pandora then started to suspect everyone but the person she trust and doesn't even thinks could be a suspect is the one who becomes Pandora's number one enemy!
If you like paranormal books then this is for you. :)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 202 reviews