What do you think?
Rate this book
Amaranthine #6
Children of Shadows
The sixth installment of the Amaranthine series pulsates with the dark blood of vampire lore.
The Children of Shadows, a vampire cult not seen for hundreds of years, resurfaces to wage war on the vampire guilds. Led by a familiar face, the cult wreaks havoc while Katelina and Jorick are trapped in Munich’s stronghold. Ume, a mysterious vampiress, who claims to know Verchiel, offers the help of her secret organization. But how are she and Verchiel connected, and can they trust her?
As mysteries are solved, new ones appear. Why have the Children of Shadows returned, and is it really a former ally that leads them, or a look-alike? Jorick and Katelina will have to team up with past companions and new allies if they want to find out the truth.
Legends rise and secrets are revealed in a world where vampires walk, drenched in blood and shadows.
The Children of Shadows, a vampire cult not seen for hundreds of years, resurfaces to wage war on the vampire guilds. Led by a familiar face, the cult wreaks havoc while Katelina and Jorick are trapped in Munich’s stronghold. Ume, a mysterious vampiress, who claims to know Verchiel, offers the help of her secret organization. But how are she and Verchiel connected, and can they trust her?
As mysteries are solved, new ones appear. Why have the Children of Shadows returned, and is it really a former ally that leads them, or a look-alike? Jorick and Katelina will have to team up with past companions and new allies if they want to find out the truth.
Legends rise and secrets are revealed in a world where vampires walk, drenched in blood and shadows.
ebook
First published January 1, 2014
4 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Joleene Naylor
96 books133 followersJoleene Naylor is the author of the glitter-less Amaranthine vampire series, a world where vampires aren't for children. As a compliment to the novel series, she has also written several short stories, including the Vampire Morsels collection.
In her spare time, Joleene is a freelance book cover designer and for-fun photographer . She maintains several blogs full of odd ramblings, and occasionally updates her website at JoleeneNaylor.com. In what little time is left she watches anime and pins recipes and DIY, all from a crooked Victorian house in Villisca, Iowa. Between her husband and her pets, she is never lonely, and should she ever disappear one might look for her on a beach in Tahiti, sipping a tropical drink and wearing a disguise.
She currently has several books available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple and Smashwords.
In her spare time, Joleene is a freelance book cover designer and for-fun photographer . She maintains several blogs full of odd ramblings, and occasionally updates her website at JoleeneNaylor.com. In what little time is left she watches anime and pins recipes and DIY, all from a crooked Victorian house in Villisca, Iowa. Between her husband and her pets, she is never lonely, and should she ever disappear one might look for her on a beach in Tahiti, sipping a tropical drink and wearing a disguise.
She currently has several books available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Apple and Smashwords.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 8, 2016
I can't believe how much momentum the Amaranthine series has gained, especially throughout the last three books. And oh la la, what a cliffhanger! Good thing, I've recently ordered book number 7. I sure am curious what Samael is up to with Katelina now and how it will all pan out. Will Jorick be able to save her?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2020
OH. MY. GOD. This is (so far) the best book of the series! (I read it in a day and man did my eyes burn by the end!) Between Katelina's disgust at eating freshly killed animals to Verchiel's tiny speedos, this book delivers with frustration, drama, comedy, and tragedy! While I love the story both Jorick's behavior and Katelina's acceptance of it do annoy me. (Though to be fair I'd rather see her with Verchiel.)
The interplay of the group dynamic is great! I especially like how the other members of the group have become more fleshed out and a specific character has become less of a self-center jerk. While Katelina doesn't see it, we the readers can see how the group has become less of a rag-tag underdog group and more of a cohesive force.
The end is both exciting and sad for me as I know the series won't end the way I hope. (I don't most readers would want it to end the way I do. lol) However, I am beyond excited to continue on the journey with this amazing series!
Off to go buy the next book...
The interplay of the group dynamic is great! I especially like how the other members of the group have become more fleshed out and a specific character has become less of a self-center jerk. While Katelina doesn't see it, we the readers can see how the group has become less of a rag-tag underdog group and more of a cohesive force.
The end is both exciting and sad for me as I know the series won't end the way I hope. (I don't most readers would want it to end the way I do. lol) However, I am beyond excited to continue on the journey with this amazing series!
Off to go buy the next book...
April 5, 2014
War has come to the Amaranthine world, and Jorick and Katelina are caught up in the middle of it. A group claiming to be Children of Shadows is bombing vampire strongholds, while another secret organization claims to oppose them. After being held against their will in Munich, Jorick and Katelina escape only to find themselves plunged into intrigue and danger. They're swept along from continent to continent, intent on getting to the bottom of who is leading the Children of Shadows. Is Malick the ring-leader, or is the newly awakened Samael the one who resurrected the evil group? And, most importantly, who keeps invading Katelina's thoughts and dreams?
I know I keep saying each book is the best one yet, but that's because each book gets better and better. Children of Shadows is a very strong sixth book in the series, a book that sets up the series for the most exciting plot-line yet. This book centers around Cyprus, Malick, and Samael--three dangerous vampires with their own unique goals. Cyprus is focused on revenge, while Malick craves turmoil and power. Samael's ultimate goals are unknown to Jorick and Katelina, and this makes him the most dangerous adversary of all. While forces within Katelina drives her to greater strength and bravery, she is probably the most vulnerable she's been throughout the series.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the underlying fear inspired by Samael who is always on the periphery of Katelina's thoughts and fears. There are hints that Katelina isn't quite the same since she consumed the ancient vampire's blood at the end of book five, but even Jorick and Verchiel can't quite figure out the ultimate effects.
In terms of character development, this book has a lot going on. Katelina's relationship with the other characters evolves, particularly with Sadhira, Loren, Oren, Etsuko, and even Torina. Even the more prickly of her vampire companions (Micah) has grudging respect for her, as she's proven herself in more ways than one. There's a great scene with Loren and Micah where Katelina shows her devotion and love for the vampires who have been a part of her life.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like I've enjoyed the entire series. The author's talent in creating this detailed world and tying multiple characters and plot lines together is astounding. If you're looking for a series to fall in love with, this is it. With six full-length books, several short story collections, and a blog dedicated to the series, being an Amaranthine fan is truly an experience. I can't wait for book seven!
I know I keep saying each book is the best one yet, but that's because each book gets better and better. Children of Shadows is a very strong sixth book in the series, a book that sets up the series for the most exciting plot-line yet. This book centers around Cyprus, Malick, and Samael--three dangerous vampires with their own unique goals. Cyprus is focused on revenge, while Malick craves turmoil and power. Samael's ultimate goals are unknown to Jorick and Katelina, and this makes him the most dangerous adversary of all. While forces within Katelina drives her to greater strength and bravery, she is probably the most vulnerable she's been throughout the series.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the underlying fear inspired by Samael who is always on the periphery of Katelina's thoughts and fears. There are hints that Katelina isn't quite the same since she consumed the ancient vampire's blood at the end of book five, but even Jorick and Verchiel can't quite figure out the ultimate effects.
In terms of character development, this book has a lot going on. Katelina's relationship with the other characters evolves, particularly with Sadhira, Loren, Oren, Etsuko, and even Torina. Even the more prickly of her vampire companions (Micah) has grudging respect for her, as she's proven herself in more ways than one. There's a great scene with Loren and Micah where Katelina shows her devotion and love for the vampires who have been a part of her life.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like I've enjoyed the entire series. The author's talent in creating this detailed world and tying multiple characters and plot lines together is astounding. If you're looking for a series to fall in love with, this is it. With six full-length books, several short story collections, and a blog dedicated to the series, being an Amaranthine fan is truly an experience. I can't wait for book seven!
April 8, 2014
War is waged on the vampire guilds. Locations across the globe are being attacked by a mythical vampire cult called "Children of Shadows." When a video is released by the group to human and vampire outlets alike, Katelina and the others learn that the cult is being led by Cyprus. Katelina, Jorick and their coven have to escape Munich to put a stop to their evil plan. While on their trip they meet Ume, a vampiress with insight to Verchiel's past, and uncover more mysteries than they can solve.
I regret that I read this book so fast because now I am chomping at the bit for Clash of Legends. Every single book is better than the last and Children of Shadows is no exception. We see a different side to some of the "tougher" characters and what came out of some of the scenes was completely unexpected. Katelina is becoming this stronger, more aware character and I really like that she is not taking the whole "humans are the lesser" quietly. However, she is also learns a valuable lesson about how fragile humans really are in the world of vampires.
I really didn't know what I was going to do with myself once I finished, but fortunately, Joleene Naylor has taken the time to write other books based in the Amaranthine Universe. I will be reading those while I wait not so patiently for Book 7!
I regret that I read this book so fast because now I am chomping at the bit for Clash of Legends. Every single book is better than the last and Children of Shadows is no exception. We see a different side to some of the "tougher" characters and what came out of some of the scenes was completely unexpected. Katelina is becoming this stronger, more aware character and I really like that she is not taking the whole "humans are the lesser" quietly. However, she is also learns a valuable lesson about how fragile humans really are in the world of vampires.
I really didn't know what I was going to do with myself once I finished, but fortunately, Joleene Naylor has taken the time to write other books based in the Amaranthine Universe. I will be reading those while I wait not so patiently for Book 7!
March 31, 2015
This Book Was Given To Me By The Author In Exchange For An Honest Review
I am a HUGE fan of Joleen's work and an BIG fan of this series! I have been reading it from the start and am in love with all the characters and love where Joleen has been taking it. Children of the Shadows was magnificent! I loved this one! Verchiel is my all time fav of the characters and I loved getting to know more about him and his past in this one.
Katelina and Jorick are the ultimate couple and nothing ever gets them down! threw thick and thin, battle after battle they always find each other and they always make it through and I love that about them! Jorick doesn't treat Katelina like a snack or pet or lowly human either like the rest of the vampire populous which gets him huge points.
Samael, Malick, the Black Vigil, and the Children of the Shadows are all big key players in the this one. Who to trust to to fight next and who can help are up in the air. Naylor keeps up all on the edge of our seats though the whole thing wondering what will she throw at us next?..lol
This epic and creative tale is one you defiantly don't want to miss out on! Naylor is a creative and butt kicking genius! I can't wait to see what comes next!
I am a HUGE fan of Joleen's work and an BIG fan of this series! I have been reading it from the start and am in love with all the characters and love where Joleen has been taking it. Children of the Shadows was magnificent! I loved this one! Verchiel is my all time fav of the characters and I loved getting to know more about him and his past in this one.
Katelina and Jorick are the ultimate couple and nothing ever gets them down! threw thick and thin, battle after battle they always find each other and they always make it through and I love that about them! Jorick doesn't treat Katelina like a snack or pet or lowly human either like the rest of the vampire populous which gets him huge points.
Samael, Malick, the Black Vigil, and the Children of the Shadows are all big key players in the this one. Who to trust to to fight next and who can help are up in the air. Naylor keeps up all on the edge of our seats though the whole thing wondering what will she throw at us next?..lol
This epic and creative tale is one you defiantly don't want to miss out on! Naylor is a creative and butt kicking genius! I can't wait to see what comes next!
March 13, 2014
Book one in this series (Shades of Gray) was the first ebook I ever bought years ago on my kindle, and I have been a fan ever since. This is a dark urban fantasy with an element of romance between Katelina and Jorick. What I love about this series is it looks at the harsher side of being involved with a vampire. No fancy houses and exotic trips. At this point in the series Katelina has managed to keep her humanity but she constantly has to endure a vampire culture where most think humans are nothing more than food or pets. Don't worry, Katelina is not one to take this treatment lightly. Over the course of the series she has become a strong character and can dish out whatever she gets.
Not only does Joleene write characters with depth, the stories she is telling, book arcs and series arc, are suspenseful and fast paced. I also enjoy her tight prose and descriptions. All around great read. There is a romantic element to Jorick and Katelina's story, but it doesn't overshadow the story. Jorick is one of my favorite vampires "rawr!"
I suggest starting at book one so you don't run into spoilers.
Not only does Joleene write characters with depth, the stories she is telling, book arcs and series arc, are suspenseful and fast paced. I also enjoy her tight prose and descriptions. All around great read. There is a romantic element to Jorick and Katelina's story, but it doesn't overshadow the story. Jorick is one of my favorite vampires "rawr!"
I suggest starting at book one so you don't run into spoilers.
March 27, 2014
Children of Shadows is the 6th book in the Amaranthine series and it's just as good as all the others.
Ms. Naylor's works are well-written, the action is fast-paced, and the characters are well-defined, and this book was no exception.
If you like paranormal reads and/or vampires, you're sure to enjoy this book.
Jorick is a brooding vampire who is centuries old and his girlfriend is a human Katelina who can take care of herself in the vampire world. Jorick is on a mission to stop evil from taking over the world, and his vampire friends don't think twice about jumping in and helping him. In this book, he continues to lead them through many countries on his quest.
This book does contain adult situations and violence, but it's well worth the read.
I enjoyed this book so much that I finished it in just a few days and can't wait for the next book to come out.
Ms. Naylor's works are well-written, the action is fast-paced, and the characters are well-defined, and this book was no exception.
If you like paranormal reads and/or vampires, you're sure to enjoy this book.
Jorick is a brooding vampire who is centuries old and his girlfriend is a human Katelina who can take care of herself in the vampire world. Jorick is on a mission to stop evil from taking over the world, and his vampire friends don't think twice about jumping in and helping him. In this book, he continues to lead them through many countries on his quest.
This book does contain adult situations and violence, but it's well worth the read.
I enjoyed this book so much that I finished it in just a few days and can't wait for the next book to come out.
September 5, 2016
As expected another great one in the Amaranthine series! It just keeps getting better and better. On to the next!
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews