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An Absence of Light
Leah’s always seen the shadow creatures. She thought she was immune to their evil—until now.
She’s walked into a massacre, stolen a BMW, and is running from the law for a crime she didn’t commit. Nineteen-year-old Leah’s life just went from mildly abnormal to totally crazy at lightning speed. But no one will believe that the shadow creatures are framing her for the murder, because she’s the only one that can see them. At least that’s what she thought.
When Leah stumbled across a group who share her ability, she discovers they have something she doesn’t: a way to fight back. When the group offers to teach her how to kill the shadow creatures, Leah jumps at the chance. But something is brewing with the creatures. They’re tracking down the hunters like there’s no tomorrow. Leah suspects that maybe there won’t be, and it’s up to her to make sure tomorrow comes. Because she’ll do anything to stop the shadows, including risking her life—and the life of the one she loves—to keep the world from being lost to darkness forever.
She’s walked into a massacre, stolen a BMW, and is running from the law for a crime she didn’t commit. Nineteen-year-old Leah’s life just went from mildly abnormal to totally crazy at lightning speed. But no one will believe that the shadow creatures are framing her for the murder, because she’s the only one that can see them. At least that’s what she thought.
When Leah stumbled across a group who share her ability, she discovers they have something she doesn’t: a way to fight back. When the group offers to teach her how to kill the shadow creatures, Leah jumps at the chance. But something is brewing with the creatures. They’re tracking down the hunters like there’s no tomorrow. Leah suspects that maybe there won’t be, and it’s up to her to make sure tomorrow comes. Because she’ll do anything to stop the shadows, including risking her life—and the life of the one she loves—to keep the world from being lost to darkness forever.
250 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2014
286 people want to read
About the author
Meradeth Houston
16 books276 followersMeradeth Houston lives in Montana where she’s an anthropology professor and scientist. If you let her, she’ll tell you more than you ever wanted to know about getting DNA out of dead stuff. She enjoys escaping the snow by imagining herself back in her favorite places in her home state of California, with a little drama or supernatural flare added in.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 6, 2014
Leah Madison is exceptional. She started college at age 16, after all. She sees things that others don’t. She senses things that are invisible to most. Unfortunately, what she sees and senses are … well, unbelievable, to society at large. And these things have murder on the mind.
Leah’s extraordinary gifts are not enough to save her family. Nor are they enough to keep her from being implicated in their deaths, and ultimately driven towards a fateful confrontation that will determine the destiny of the entire human race.
What she sees—what she senses, can even talk to—are “Shadows.”
They live among us, but they are not native. They know all about Leah, and her gifts. They do not wish to kill her—not yet, anyway. Because they need answers, too.
This is the stage upon which AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT, by Meradeth Houston, is set. To give away any more secrets (as the cliché goes) would be a crime. Suffice it to say, O Reader, when you crack back the cover and unveil the first page, you’d better be ready to GO—because you’ve just embarked upon a science fiction-horror novel that hits the pavement like a stolen BMW with back tires squealing, leaving blackened, shadowy tread marks over your unsuspecting brain and heart.
Keeping the “secrets” sacred, however, I will tell you this: You will accompany Leah to a sanctuary, in the form of a gas station, where she will make new friends—and something like family—even as she learns how to battle the evils that ruined her earlier life. Here, she may even fall in love again, if only for a moment.
And you’ll fall in love with Leah, but not because she is perfect. Far from it, she’s actually moody, often snippy, and at times indecisive. But people confide in her, and she never betrays—even when it might be in her best interests to do so. She tells the truth, at least as she sees it. In a word, she’s decent, and the reader roots for her.
This book is rife with desperate action. Just when you feel like you might get a break from it—after an especially tender scene, for instance, or even following the book’s essential set-piece climax—a new complication arises. Yet, there is a resolution. AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT is a story unto itself, while at the same time leaving the possibility that there may be more of this story for Ms. Houston to tell.
If so, Houston, we don’t have a problem.
Leah’s extraordinary gifts are not enough to save her family. Nor are they enough to keep her from being implicated in their deaths, and ultimately driven towards a fateful confrontation that will determine the destiny of the entire human race.
What she sees—what she senses, can even talk to—are “Shadows.”
They live among us, but they are not native. They know all about Leah, and her gifts. They do not wish to kill her—not yet, anyway. Because they need answers, too.
This is the stage upon which AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT, by Meradeth Houston, is set. To give away any more secrets (as the cliché goes) would be a crime. Suffice it to say, O Reader, when you crack back the cover and unveil the first page, you’d better be ready to GO—because you’ve just embarked upon a science fiction-horror novel that hits the pavement like a stolen BMW with back tires squealing, leaving blackened, shadowy tread marks over your unsuspecting brain and heart.
Keeping the “secrets” sacred, however, I will tell you this: You will accompany Leah to a sanctuary, in the form of a gas station, where she will make new friends—and something like family—even as she learns how to battle the evils that ruined her earlier life. Here, she may even fall in love again, if only for a moment.
And you’ll fall in love with Leah, but not because she is perfect. Far from it, she’s actually moody, often snippy, and at times indecisive. But people confide in her, and she never betrays—even when it might be in her best interests to do so. She tells the truth, at least as she sees it. In a word, she’s decent, and the reader roots for her.
This book is rife with desperate action. Just when you feel like you might get a break from it—after an especially tender scene, for instance, or even following the book’s essential set-piece climax—a new complication arises. Yet, there is a resolution. AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT is a story unto itself, while at the same time leaving the possibility that there may be more of this story for Ms. Houston to tell.
If so, Houston, we don’t have a problem.
June 23, 2015
I was curious to read one more book by Meradeth Houston. Books I've read earlier made a great impression on me, they created very strong emotions. I wondered if this one would too.
Well, it again captured me with the first sentence. It was powerful. And other sentences followed. The beginning of the story was quite shattering. It created mystery. This made me eager to know more. The idea of the Shadows was new to me. As long as I can remember I haven't read about them. Further in the story bits of new information were given, new characters were introduced, and some truth about them was revealed. I grew to like Leah and others. There was hint of humor here and there. Tension lingered and time after time builded up. Near the end there was a lot of it. And there were surprises in this story too.
I wasn't as overwhelmed with emotions reading this book as I was while reading Colors Like Memories and The Chemistry of Fate, but it was an interesting read, and I enjoyed it.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal)
Well, it again captured me with the first sentence. It was powerful. And other sentences followed. The beginning of the story was quite shattering. It created mystery. This made me eager to know more. The idea of the Shadows was new to me. As long as I can remember I haven't read about them. Further in the story bits of new information were given, new characters were introduced, and some truth about them was revealed. I grew to like Leah and others. There was hint of humor here and there. Tension lingered and time after time builded up. Near the end there was a lot of it. And there were surprises in this story too.
I wasn't as overwhelmed with emotions reading this book as I was while reading Colors Like Memories and The Chemistry of Fate, but it was an interesting read, and I enjoyed it.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal)
March 1, 2015
*ARC provided as a R2R per the group Lovers of the Paranormal*
I thought this was a good story with an interesting premise. The writing was skillful, drawing you in easily, though I thought the dialogue was a bit stilted and unrealistic, which drew the rating down for me. The idea of 'shadows' and people that can see them was an intriguing one, made more so by what the shadows really turn out to be.
This twist actually reminded me slightly of Dean Koontz's book,
The Taking by Dean Koontz, a story I loved very much.
I think this is a book most YA fans will really enjoy, particularly fans of Madeline L'Engle's Ring of Endless Light series.
I thought this was a good story with an interesting premise. The writing was skillful, drawing you in easily, though I thought the dialogue was a bit stilted and unrealistic, which drew the rating down for me. The idea of 'shadows' and people that can see them was an intriguing one, made more so by what the shadows really turn out to be.
This twist actually reminded me slightly of Dean Koontz's book,
The Taking by Dean Koontz, a story I loved very much. I think this is a book most YA fans will really enjoy, particularly fans of Madeline L'Engle's Ring of Endless Light series.
November 21, 2014
Loved the unique Shadows. The story’s progress had me guessing (usually wrong) the entire time. Good escalation of events. Great dynamics between the characters and believable motivation. Well done.
December 28, 2014
Leah has always been haunted by the shadows, evil creatures only she can see. When the shadows murder her family and frame her for it, Leah steals a BMW and flees her hometown, ending up at a garage when the car runs out of gas. It seems fate has led her to this place. Not only does the owner of the garage also see the shadows, but so does Adam, the infuriating, gorgeous, belligerent, sweet mechanic who works there. Together this unlikely trio discovers a new way to fight the shadows. And the deeper they investigate into what the shadows are and where they came from, the more dire the situation becomes.
Meradeth Houston bends the paranormal genre in her latest book, AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT. When I first started reading, I didn't really have any idea what exactly the shadows were (and neither does Leah), and finding out what they really are is an interesting surprise. As a reader who has been experiencing some paranormal fatigue lately, this story brought some freshness to the tired genre. High stakes and the undercurrent of the love/hate relationship between Leah and Adam pulled me right along through the story.
Meradeth Houston bends the paranormal genre in her latest book, AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT. When I first started reading, I didn't really have any idea what exactly the shadows were (and neither does Leah), and finding out what they really are is an interesting surprise. As a reader who has been experiencing some paranormal fatigue lately, this story brought some freshness to the tired genre. High stakes and the undercurrent of the love/hate relationship between Leah and Adam pulled me right along through the story.
January 29, 2015
The novel starts with a grisly scene. Leah walks into her home and her entire family has been slaughtered. She has to run away because of two things—she knows the police are going to blame her for the murders and the shadow creatures who have been following her are responsible for the deaths. She steals a car and is out on the road when she stumbles into a group of helpful people.
There are others like her who can see the shadows when she used to think she was the only one. The people who take her in know about the shadows’ weaknesses. There is a way to fight, trap, and even kill them. And where the shadows originate from and their goals in regards to humans are quite interesting.
This horror-paranormal novel is fast-paced, dark, and compelling. I’ve read the authors’ other works, which are milder, so the level of darkness in this novel was a nice surprise. The shadow creatures are super creepy, while Leah is a character you want to cheer for. I wanted her and her friends to make it out okay in their battle.
There are others like her who can see the shadows when she used to think she was the only one. The people who take her in know about the shadows’ weaknesses. There is a way to fight, trap, and even kill them. And where the shadows originate from and their goals in regards to humans are quite interesting.
This horror-paranormal novel is fast-paced, dark, and compelling. I’ve read the authors’ other works, which are milder, so the level of darkness in this novel was a nice surprise. The shadow creatures are super creepy, while Leah is a character you want to cheer for. I wanted her and her friends to make it out okay in their battle.
November 6, 2014
If Shakespeare had written paranormal YA (well, he almost did – what about the ghost in Macbeth?), he might have written ABSENCE OF LIGHT by Meradeth Houston. Why Shakespeare? Because he had the gift of drawing characters that were multifaceted – there were no villains in his plays who were evil, through and through, with no redeeming characteristics. Houston is up to her usual artistry here, creating characters that you empathize with in one moment, and then, in the next moment, you question your earlier assessment. The hinge of the plot depends on the evil (or so we think), black, oily Shadows, who have killed the feisty protagonist Leah's family. But, (no spoilers, here) there is more to the Shadows that we see at first glance. Be prepared to be surprised – and to enjoy Houston's trademark sassy/savvy protagonist's voice and her command of vivid place and action descriptors. If you like paranormal with smarts, snap this one up!
October 31, 2014
I'm a fan of Ms. Houston's previous "Sary" series. Very well-written and entertaining. But, I have to say, this is Ms. Houston's most accomplished work yet. Suspenseful, unpredictable, romantic, very empathetic characters. Can't go wrong.
Leah's battling demons, inner and outer. Mostly outer, but they're to blame for her inner demons. The shadow creatures killed her family. She seeks salvation, survival. Temporary shelter. She finds a temporary weigh-station in a compatico group of people, but will it last?
I'd compare it to an excellent, YA updating of the great paranoid thriller, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
Read the book, find out. The novel kept me chugging along through the night to find out how it'd end. Loved it. Recommended.
Leah's battling demons, inner and outer. Mostly outer, but they're to blame for her inner demons. The shadow creatures killed her family. She seeks salvation, survival. Temporary shelter. She finds a temporary weigh-station in a compatico group of people, but will it last?
I'd compare it to an excellent, YA updating of the great paranoid thriller, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
Read the book, find out. The novel kept me chugging along through the night to find out how it'd end. Loved it. Recommended.
October 25, 2017
That was intense action. It starts off fast and continues with really likable characters. This was a great story!
December 15, 2014
Such a great book!
November 8, 2015
And for my very last #FallfortheIndieBook - a new favorite author.
An Absence of Light sucked me in from the very beginning and only slightly lost my interest towards the end (the Shadows were not what I expected them to be, more after the jump), and everything was wrapped up quickly for all of the damage caused. But - even so, a solid output from an author whose voice I definitely loved.
We start with Leah, or rather, Leah's family, who has just been murdered. And if that weren't enough, Leah knows what did it - the Shadows.
She's seen these things since she was a little girl, and they terrify her. But no one believes her; including her now deceased parents. So she runs, sure that she'll probably be blamed for her parents' deaths.
It's never quite explained (or maybe I missed it) if Leah's parents were targeted specifically, or whether they got caught in the crossfire of the Shadows trying to kill Leah. She's Special, in that she can see the creatures (again, not explained why or how, but chalked up to her Special-ness). Through happenstance or Fate or some otherworldly influence, she ends up with the family of Manuel, a like-minded individual who can also see the Shadows.
There she meets hunky Adam (twitch) who has been working with Manuel to try and kill the sonsofbitches. His little sister Emily was driven crazy by them, and Manuel's family was also killed by them. Even his mother, Nana, can see them, but chooses not to. So they become a little crew of demon hunters, though it was different to see no one having answers and everyone fumbling their way through. No Giles in this motley crew.
Unfortunately, the big monster reveal turned out to be a little...meh for me, and I think it's more because I expected everything to be supernatural, that the fact they were (SPOILER ALERT) aliens kind of felt like a let-down? And when they started teaming up with the good aliens to defeat the bad aliens, it took it out of the breathless suspense and into the bright light. Kind of like in Signs, where you were freaking out the whole movie about these god-damned aliens, but when you saw them, they weren't so bad.
I think that's more a testament to Houston's incredible writing chops than anything. The first part of the book was just so on point that just a "well done" back half seemed missing that suspense. And the HEA that happened at the end needed more to it. There was so much damage in the wake of the final battle, and I felt like we needed more time to spend on it.
What I can't say enough about is Houston's voice. I just LOOOOOOOOOVED her voice, it resonated with me, it made me laugh and root for our protagonist. And - most importantly - it made me so super stoked that I have all of her other books on my to-read list. I may have to add her to my ABFF list of people I stalk am friends with.
Highly recommend An Absence of Light to all my YA science fiction fan. Four stars.
An Absence of Light sucked me in from the very beginning and only slightly lost my interest towards the end (the Shadows were not what I expected them to be, more after the jump), and everything was wrapped up quickly for all of the damage caused. But - even so, a solid output from an author whose voice I definitely loved.
We start with Leah, or rather, Leah's family, who has just been murdered. And if that weren't enough, Leah knows what did it - the Shadows.
She's seen these things since she was a little girl, and they terrify her. But no one believes her; including her now deceased parents. So she runs, sure that she'll probably be blamed for her parents' deaths.
It's never quite explained (or maybe I missed it) if Leah's parents were targeted specifically, or whether they got caught in the crossfire of the Shadows trying to kill Leah. She's Special, in that she can see the creatures (again, not explained why or how, but chalked up to her Special-ness). Through happenstance or Fate or some otherworldly influence, she ends up with the family of Manuel, a like-minded individual who can also see the Shadows.
There she meets hunky Adam (twitch) who has been working with Manuel to try and kill the sonsofbitches. His little sister Emily was driven crazy by them, and Manuel's family was also killed by them. Even his mother, Nana, can see them, but chooses not to. So they become a little crew of demon hunters, though it was different to see no one having answers and everyone fumbling their way through. No Giles in this motley crew.
Unfortunately, the big monster reveal turned out to be a little...meh for me, and I think it's more because I expected everything to be supernatural, that the fact they were (SPOILER ALERT) aliens kind of felt like a let-down? And when they started teaming up with the good aliens to defeat the bad aliens, it took it out of the breathless suspense and into the bright light. Kind of like in Signs, where you were freaking out the whole movie about these god-damned aliens, but when you saw them, they weren't so bad.
I think that's more a testament to Houston's incredible writing chops than anything. The first part of the book was just so on point that just a "well done" back half seemed missing that suspense. And the HEA that happened at the end needed more to it. There was so much damage in the wake of the final battle, and I felt like we needed more time to spend on it.
What I can't say enough about is Houston's voice. I just LOOOOOOOOOVED her voice, it resonated with me, it made me laugh and root for our protagonist. And - most importantly - it made me so super stoked that I have all of her other books on my to-read list. I may have to add her to my ABFF list of people I stalk am friends with.
Highly recommend An Absence of Light to all my YA science fiction fan. Four stars.
November 28, 2014
Leah Madison is exceptional. She started college at age 16, after all. She sees things that others don’t. She senses things that are invisible to most. Unfortunately, what she sees and senses are … well, unbelievable, to society at large. And these things have murder on the mind.
Leah’s extraordinary gifts are not enough to save her family. Nor are they enough to keep her from being implicated in their deaths, and ultimately driven towards a fateful confrontation that will determine the destiny of the entire human race.
What she sees—what she senses, can even talk to—are “Shadows.”
They live among us, but they are not native. They know all about Leah, and her gifts. They do not wish to kill her—not yet, anyway. Because they need answers, too.
This is the stage upon which AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT, by Meradeth Houston, is set. To give away any more secrets (as the cliché goes) would be a crime. Suffice it to say, O Reader, when you crack back the cover and unveil the first page, you’d better be ready to GO—because you’ve just embarked upon a science fiction-horror novel that hits the pavement like a stolen BMW with back tires squealing, leaving blackened, shadowy tread marks over your unsuspecting brain and heart.
Keeping the “secrets” sacred, however, I will tell you this: You will accompany Leah to a sanctuary, in the form of a gas station, where she will make new friends—and something like family—even as she learns how to battle the evils that ruined her earlier life. Here, she may even fall in love again, if only for a moment.
And you’ll fall in love with Leah, but not because she is perfect. Far from it, she’s actually moody, often snippy, and at times indecisive. But people confide in her, and she never betrays—even when it might be in her best interests to do so. She tells the truth, at least as she sees it. In a word, she’s decent, and the reader roots for her.
This book is rife with desperate action. Just when you feel like you might get a break from it—after an especially tender scene, for instance, or even following the book’s essential set-piece climax—a new complication arises. Yet, there is a resolution. AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT is a story unto itself, while at the same time leaving the possibility that there may be more of this story for Ms. Houston to tell.
If so, Houston, we don’t have a problem.
Leah’s extraordinary gifts are not enough to save her family. Nor are they enough to keep her from being implicated in their deaths, and ultimately driven towards a fateful confrontation that will determine the destiny of the entire human race.
What she sees—what she senses, can even talk to—are “Shadows.”
They live among us, but they are not native. They know all about Leah, and her gifts. They do not wish to kill her—not yet, anyway. Because they need answers, too.
This is the stage upon which AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT, by Meradeth Houston, is set. To give away any more secrets (as the cliché goes) would be a crime. Suffice it to say, O Reader, when you crack back the cover and unveil the first page, you’d better be ready to GO—because you’ve just embarked upon a science fiction-horror novel that hits the pavement like a stolen BMW with back tires squealing, leaving blackened, shadowy tread marks over your unsuspecting brain and heart.
Keeping the “secrets” sacred, however, I will tell you this: You will accompany Leah to a sanctuary, in the form of a gas station, where she will make new friends—and something like family—even as she learns how to battle the evils that ruined her earlier life. Here, she may even fall in love again, if only for a moment.
And you’ll fall in love with Leah, but not because she is perfect. Far from it, she’s actually moody, often snippy, and at times indecisive. But people confide in her, and she never betrays—even when it might be in her best interests to do so. She tells the truth, at least as she sees it. In a word, she’s decent, and the reader roots for her.
This book is rife with desperate action. Just when you feel like you might get a break from it—after an especially tender scene, for instance, or even following the book’s essential set-piece climax—a new complication arises. Yet, there is a resolution. AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT is a story unto itself, while at the same time leaving the possibility that there may be more of this story for Ms. Houston to tell.
If so, Houston, we don’t have a problem.
June 30, 2015
An Absence of Light reminded me of the Dean Koontz's Odd Thomas series and The Host by Stephenie Meyer.
The story starts out with a bang with a murder scene and Leah escaping because she knows she will look guilty - was set up to look guilty.
I found the idea of the Shadows (which reminded me of the bodachs in Dean Koontz's Odd Thomas books) intriguing, especially since everyone can't see them. Even more interesting is Houston's description that they are blacker than night, despise and avoid light (sort of like vampires), and that they actually feed on darkness - both the scientific absence of light as well as the intangible darkness in all of us. When it is revealed what they actually are, I suppose I was a bit disappointed because I had a preconceived idea of what they are. If the glass is half full, however, I'd call this an unexpected and interesting twist.
I like the pace and the progressive build up of the suspension. I like all of the characters, though our protagonist, Leah, isn't my favorite. She is moody and oftentimes snaps at those trying to help her. But, she's a decent person, and I couldn't help rooting for her. Nana is, by far, my favorite, but that may possibly be because she cooks all the time, and that made me hungry while reading (I swear I could smell her homemade tortillas). She's very warm and loving, and I really like that about her.
There was one thing that bothers me though. Leah and her group of friends call the creatures Shadows. When they began to communicate with them, and we get to know some of the Shadows, they refer to themselves as Shadows. That didn't seem realistic to me. Without spoiling the plot, I can't say much about this. But, what I can say is, no matter what they are, they would have already had a name for themselves as a group that probably wouldn't be Shadows. A shadow is simply an area of darkness created when a source of light is blocked, something they wouldn't necessarily be familiar with prior to the events in this story.
Overall, this is a fun read with a good amount of suspense. It's dark and filled with action. I think fans of both horror and science fiction will enjoy it.
The story starts out with a bang with a murder scene and Leah escaping because she knows she will look guilty - was set up to look guilty.
I found the idea of the Shadows (which reminded me of the bodachs in Dean Koontz's Odd Thomas books) intriguing, especially since everyone can't see them. Even more interesting is Houston's description that they are blacker than night, despise and avoid light (sort of like vampires), and that they actually feed on darkness - both the scientific absence of light as well as the intangible darkness in all of us. When it is revealed what they actually are, I suppose I was a bit disappointed because I had a preconceived idea of what they are. If the glass is half full, however, I'd call this an unexpected and interesting twist.
I like the pace and the progressive build up of the suspension. I like all of the characters, though our protagonist, Leah, isn't my favorite. She is moody and oftentimes snaps at those trying to help her. But, she's a decent person, and I couldn't help rooting for her. Nana is, by far, my favorite, but that may possibly be because she cooks all the time, and that made me hungry while reading (I swear I could smell her homemade tortillas). She's very warm and loving, and I really like that about her.
There was one thing that bothers me though. Leah and her group of friends call the creatures Shadows. When they began to communicate with them, and we get to know some of the Shadows, they refer to themselves as Shadows. That didn't seem realistic to me. Without spoiling the plot, I can't say much about this. But, what I can say is, no matter what they are, they would have already had a name for themselves as a group that probably wouldn't be Shadows. A shadow is simply an area of darkness created when a source of light is blocked, something they wouldn't necessarily be familiar with prior to the events in this story.
Overall, this is a fun read with a good amount of suspense. It's dark and filled with action. I think fans of both horror and science fiction will enjoy it.
December 9, 2014
I enjoyed this book -- I found it fast-paced and exciting and the characters endearing. I was especially fond of the Shadow Zoey, for reasons you'll discover when you read the book.
I understand that Madeleine L'Engle is one of Houston's favorite authors, and I imagined I could see L'Engle in Absence of Light -- in the concept of earth endangered by darkness from space, in the warmth of the bonds formed among the main characters and the feeling that they were special people brought together for a purpose, and in the light, open-ended spirituality of the book.
I especially appreciate it when a book palpably reflects its author's worldview, whether I share that worldview or not -- it gives the book depth and sincerity -- and the ideas here were beautiful and uplifting.
Another L'Engle trope, the idea of groups of "good" people who get it and are safe as opposed to the rest of the world (I'm thinking especially of when Manuel says of Adam something like, "He's good people"), worked for me emotionally, although I think that attitude can lead to strife and mistrust among people who are all good but just different.
I enjoyed Emily a lot too and the way her gnomic comments ranged from the profound to the silly ("I hate that sweater") to the some-of-each ("Adam will hate it too").
One thing about the Shadows, though, I think Houston could have wrestled with a little more.
On the one hand, we get the sense that the Shadows are basically an allegorical representation of evil. They are blacker than night, they hate light, they feed on darkness both literal and figurative (people's bad thoughts, etc.). We are told that they don't even have the concept of truth. In this capacity, I thought they functioned very simply and elegantly.
On the other hand, they are portrayed as simply a separate species, with its own complexities.
Is there a way to reconcile the two? If there are sequels, which I hope there are, there will be room to do so.....
Still, altogether, Absence of Light was an engaging and moving story.
I understand that Madeleine L'Engle is one of Houston's favorite authors, and I imagined I could see L'Engle in Absence of Light -- in the concept of earth endangered by darkness from space, in the warmth of the bonds formed among the main characters and the feeling that they were special people brought together for a purpose, and in the light, open-ended spirituality of the book.
I especially appreciate it when a book palpably reflects its author's worldview, whether I share that worldview or not -- it gives the book depth and sincerity -- and the ideas here were beautiful and uplifting.
Another L'Engle trope, the idea of groups of "good" people who get it and are safe as opposed to the rest of the world (I'm thinking especially of when Manuel says of Adam something like, "He's good people"), worked for me emotionally, although I think that attitude can lead to strife and mistrust among people who are all good but just different.
I enjoyed Emily a lot too and the way her gnomic comments ranged from the profound to the silly ("I hate that sweater") to the some-of-each ("Adam will hate it too").
One thing about the Shadows, though, I think Houston could have wrestled with a little more.
On the one hand, we get the sense that the Shadows are basically an allegorical representation of evil. They are blacker than night, they hate light, they feed on darkness both literal and figurative (people's bad thoughts, etc.). We are told that they don't even have the concept of truth. In this capacity, I thought they functioned very simply and elegantly.
On the other hand, they are portrayed as simply a separate species, with its own complexities.
Is there a way to reconcile the two? If there are sequels, which I hope there are, there will be room to do so.....
Still, altogether, Absence of Light was an engaging and moving story.
June 9, 2015
An Absence of Light does not start off lightly, easing you into the story and Lee's world. HECK no! It starts off with a heartbreaking BANG, and Lee having to run away from everything that she has ever known. Running from the Shadows. She doesn't know what they are exactly, but she knows what they can do. She has since she was a little girl. Now, they have done the unthinkable, and Lee blames herself for it. She vows that she will have revenge, and prevent the Shadows from doing to someone else what they have done to her.
After running from her home, with no clothes or money or anything, Lee ends up stealing a car and driving as far and as fast as she can. She ends up running out of gas at a mechanics shop. Here, she meets Manuel and Adam, and she thinks she may finally have found the means to exact her revenge. She might end up finding more than she bargained for though. The Shadows are changing, their behavior becoming more aggressive. What does it mean? And what could Lee possibly have to do with it?
I truly enjoyed this story. It was very fast-paced, and I enjoyed learning more about the shadows. Lee was a great character. She has lost everything, but she doesn't give up. She fights. She has a wry, sarcastic voice, and I found it endearing! Manuel was a ray of sunshine in the story, as was Nana. I enjoyed their roles in the story, and what they meant to Lee. Adam at first was not so easy to love. He was closed off, and distant. But as the story progressed, I started to like him more and more. The Shadows were awful, creepy things!
The Shadows, the darkness was the main focus of the story, which I appreciated. Romance was a part of the story, but it never overshadowed (ha) what the story was meant to be. As I said, this one is quick paced, and definitely interesting. While at times, it was a bit predictable, I just didn't care. I was enjoying it too much. And there was a nice twist to look forward to!
Great story, easily recommended. So recommend it I will! Go ahead and give this one a shot. I think it might just surprise you!
After running from her home, with no clothes or money or anything, Lee ends up stealing a car and driving as far and as fast as she can. She ends up running out of gas at a mechanics shop. Here, she meets Manuel and Adam, and she thinks she may finally have found the means to exact her revenge. She might end up finding more than she bargained for though. The Shadows are changing, their behavior becoming more aggressive. What does it mean? And what could Lee possibly have to do with it?
I truly enjoyed this story. It was very fast-paced, and I enjoyed learning more about the shadows. Lee was a great character. She has lost everything, but she doesn't give up. She fights. She has a wry, sarcastic voice, and I found it endearing! Manuel was a ray of sunshine in the story, as was Nana. I enjoyed their roles in the story, and what they meant to Lee. Adam at first was not so easy to love. He was closed off, and distant. But as the story progressed, I started to like him more and more. The Shadows were awful, creepy things!
The Shadows, the darkness was the main focus of the story, which I appreciated. Romance was a part of the story, but it never overshadowed (ha) what the story was meant to be. As I said, this one is quick paced, and definitely interesting. While at times, it was a bit predictable, I just didn't care. I was enjoying it too much. And there was a nice twist to look forward to!
Great story, easily recommended. So recommend it I will! Go ahead and give this one a shot. I think it might just surprise you!
June 30, 2015
I received an eARC copy of AN ABSENCE OF LIGHT by Meradeth Houston in exchange for an honest review.
The novel grabbed my attention right away by opening with the murder of the main character's family. Of course, it made me want to read on to find out who or what killed them. Forced to flee because of the evidence stacked against her, the MC, Lee, finds herself out of gas with no money, stopped in front of a car repair garage. It almost seems like fate when the owner of the garage is the only person she's ever met who can see the Shadows too. And this middle-aged man, Manuel, is kind enough to take her in without asking too many questions or needing too many answers.
The concept of these otherworldly "creatures" is extremely unique in that they feed off darkness or evil. And soon they begin taking over the bodies of innocent people, eating their soul from inside out. They've set their sights on Lee because she's one of the few people who can kill these vicious "things." Then you add Adam, the cute but distant guy who's been "marked" by the Shadows, and you have an interesting setup. On one hand, they are desperately trying to stay alive and kill as many Shadows as they can while trying to figure out the Shadows ulterior plan, but also there's a connection between Adam and Lee that's almost palpable.
Even though this isn't a genre I would normally read, I really enjoyed it. There were places where the book slowed down a bit, but those scenes were nicely contrasted with a high action scene. And of course, the romantic tension between Lee and Adam makes you want to fly through the pages to find out if they do ever end up together. The ending was a satisfying (although sad) one. I won't say anymore because I don't want to give anything away.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars and would recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers/horror with science fiction elements and a little romance.
The novel grabbed my attention right away by opening with the murder of the main character's family. Of course, it made me want to read on to find out who or what killed them. Forced to flee because of the evidence stacked against her, the MC, Lee, finds herself out of gas with no money, stopped in front of a car repair garage. It almost seems like fate when the owner of the garage is the only person she's ever met who can see the Shadows too. And this middle-aged man, Manuel, is kind enough to take her in without asking too many questions or needing too many answers.
The concept of these otherworldly "creatures" is extremely unique in that they feed off darkness or evil. And soon they begin taking over the bodies of innocent people, eating their soul from inside out. They've set their sights on Lee because she's one of the few people who can kill these vicious "things." Then you add Adam, the cute but distant guy who's been "marked" by the Shadows, and you have an interesting setup. On one hand, they are desperately trying to stay alive and kill as many Shadows as they can while trying to figure out the Shadows ulterior plan, but also there's a connection between Adam and Lee that's almost palpable.
Even though this isn't a genre I would normally read, I really enjoyed it. There were places where the book slowed down a bit, but those scenes were nicely contrasted with a high action scene. And of course, the romantic tension between Lee and Adam makes you want to fly through the pages to find out if they do ever end up together. The ending was a satisfying (although sad) one. I won't say anymore because I don't want to give anything away.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars and would recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers/horror with science fiction elements and a little romance.
June 12, 2015
Leah (aka Lee) is a great character. She's a little like me - sarcastic, witty, but fierce and loyal, too. I liked her immediately. She never lets the circumstances of her life break her - though she does give in to a little bit of pity-partying on occassion. I thought the book could have done with just a tad more back story, but I was definitely riveted by the intro which tosses the reader straight into the action and presents a lot of questions to be answered throughout the rest of the story. Manuel and Nana add a sense of family and (interestingly) serenity to the story, while Adam and Emily add intensity and drama. I very much enjoyed Lee's interaction with, and reaction to, these different character elements. I felt that the pace moved along nicely, with new information given in good order. I couldn't help but think of episodes of X Files and Fringe when reading about the Shadows, but it was a nice association to make, in my opinion. If you enjoy these types of TV shows and books of similar subject matter, then An Absence of Light, will be a good read for you as you travel, lounge pool- or beach-side or hide out in your nice cool home from the high temps this summer.
Also, I gotta love Ms. Houston just because she lives in Montana, my own home state. I haven't lived in MT for many years, but it does still hold a special place in my heart when I reflect back on my grandparents home in the mountains, summers spent on the lake or at summer camp, riding our horses, and digging tunnels in the snow drifts. Also, she has some pretty fascinating hobbies (see Author Bio below). When I get time, between other planned reads, I intend to check out more of Ms. Houston's writing.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this ebook for purposes of review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
Also, I gotta love Ms. Houston just because she lives in Montana, my own home state. I haven't lived in MT for many years, but it does still hold a special place in my heart when I reflect back on my grandparents home in the mountains, summers spent on the lake or at summer camp, riding our horses, and digging tunnels in the snow drifts. Also, she has some pretty fascinating hobbies (see Author Bio below). When I get time, between other planned reads, I intend to check out more of Ms. Houston's writing.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this ebook for purposes of review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
June 29, 2015
I really enjoyed An Absence of Light. It was a nice change of pace from my normal reads these days. Right from the opening scene, the reader is pulled into what Leah’s world is like, filled with these shadow creatures that she doesn’t understand. Her struggles, her sadness, and her guilt compile to make this story stand up a little straighter. Leah’s just nineteen, but she’s had to grow up quickly. As she leaves the home she’s known and stumbles across a small group who can empathize with her losses and understand her world of the Shadows, she is given a chance to fight back. I enjoyed the character dynamics between Leah, Manuel, Adam, Emily, and Nana. This story had so much going on that we really didn’t need to be introduced to many more characters, but those others that came along throughout the story played an important part in developing the plot. As an editor, I enjoyed the lack of “filler story” within this novel; it got down and dirty with the issue of the Shadows and each character’s internal battles.
We all have demons, some are just a little scarier than others.
If I were to point out anything that needed work, I’d suggest another round of editing. I also wouldn’t classify this story as a horror one, though I understand that decision.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and I’d definitely read something else by Houston. This story was a different take on the thriller genre and fit the Young Adult mold quite nicely. I would be comfortable having a younger teen read this story without worry of anything explicit in the book. The gore factor is not terribly high, though there are moments that are fairly cringe-worthy.
We all have demons, some are just a little scarier than others.
If I were to point out anything that needed work, I’d suggest another round of editing. I also wouldn’t classify this story as a horror one, though I understand that decision.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and I’d definitely read something else by Houston. This story was a different take on the thriller genre and fit the Young Adult mold quite nicely. I would be comfortable having a younger teen read this story without worry of anything explicit in the book. The gore factor is not terribly high, though there are moments that are fairly cringe-worthy.
June 8, 2015
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This book started off with a bang and I was immediately enthralled. I was in the mood for a little bit darker read, so this was perfect. Death, revenge, evil phantoms who feed off lechery and deceit? Perfect.
Lee was a great character. I liked that she was a good balance of weak and strong. She had moments of determination and courage, but she also had moments where she cried and said 'you know what? This sucks.' And I found that to be realistic. The girl just lost her entire family and is fighting evil- she deserves to have those moments. It also helped build her relationships with the others. Manual and his mother, Adam and his sister... she just met these people, but battling the shadows brought them together in a way that felt natural and believable. They leaned on each other and I loved all of them.
I especially liked the relationship between Lee and Adam. I liked that he kind of hated her at first. They developed a friendship slowly and it made it seem more real. Stronger.
The only complaint I have is that the writing could have been better at times. There were some great lines that I loved so much I highlighted them, and then there were some places where I had to reread sentences because they were a little confusing at first. Like they could have been worded better. Basically I just felt parts of it could have been stronger. So, while I still loved the story and the characters, it wasn't quite a 5 star read. I would still recommend it though!
This book started off with a bang and I was immediately enthralled. I was in the mood for a little bit darker read, so this was perfect. Death, revenge, evil phantoms who feed off lechery and deceit? Perfect.
Lee was a great character. I liked that she was a good balance of weak and strong. She had moments of determination and courage, but she also had moments where she cried and said 'you know what? This sucks.' And I found that to be realistic. The girl just lost her entire family and is fighting evil- she deserves to have those moments. It also helped build her relationships with the others. Manual and his mother, Adam and his sister... she just met these people, but battling the shadows brought them together in a way that felt natural and believable. They leaned on each other and I loved all of them.
I especially liked the relationship between Lee and Adam. I liked that he kind of hated her at first. They developed a friendship slowly and it made it seem more real. Stronger.
The only complaint I have is that the writing could have been better at times. There were some great lines that I loved so much I highlighted them, and then there were some places where I had to reread sentences because they were a little confusing at first. Like they could have been worded better. Basically I just felt parts of it could have been stronger. So, while I still loved the story and the characters, it wasn't quite a 5 star read. I would still recommend it though!
January 2, 2015
**Given the book in return of honest review**
I did not know what to expect from this book, it being the first book I have received in return of an honest review! (the amazing author Meradeth Houston
was also new to me). I was pleasantly surprised!
An absence of light is such an amazing book and shocked me so much, the plot is amazing and I fell in love with many of the characters! My favourite character has tobbe the amazing main character ((Leah))- I feel I connected with her through the way she thinks, especially the way that we read a lot of her thoughts which let me create my own image of her in my mind. Adam *oh my god* I love and hate him INA n unimaginable way he is sweet and caring but can be so irrating and cocky- I kinda couldn't help myself from falling in live with himself! I could go on forever about the characters especially Leah and Adam!!!!
The plot of this book is asmizng there was many points that I was left speechless and unsure of what to think- especially times when Manuel and Adam put themselves in danger in order to save Leah, I almost cried at the thought of losing any characters who I had fallen in love with, which helped build up the amazing plot! There was not a point during this book where my live for it faded!
I honestly love this book and it is now one of my all time favourites!
I did not know what to expect from this book, it being the first book I have received in return of an honest review! (the amazing author Meradeth Houston
was also new to me). I was pleasantly surprised! An absence of light is such an amazing book and shocked me so much, the plot is amazing and I fell in love with many of the characters! My favourite character has tobbe the amazing main character ((Leah))- I feel I connected with her through the way she thinks, especially the way that we read a lot of her thoughts which let me create my own image of her in my mind. Adam *oh my god* I love and hate him INA n unimaginable way he is sweet and caring but can be so irrating and cocky- I kinda couldn't help myself from falling in live with himself! I could go on forever about the characters especially Leah and Adam!!!!
The plot of this book is asmizng there was many points that I was left speechless and unsure of what to think- especially times when Manuel and Adam put themselves in danger in order to save Leah, I almost cried at the thought of losing any characters who I had fallen in love with, which helped build up the amazing plot! There was not a point during this book where my live for it faded!
I honestly love this book and it is now one of my all time favourites!
March 4, 2015
I was given this book y Lovers of paranormal in exchange of an honest review.
Leah has always seen them....Lurking in shadows and dark alleys, in her home and killing her family making her the one responsible for that...Leah is on the run now
She decides she has had enough of them invading her life....and her meeting with 2 boys who can see them too..oh well..it's the shadow's death wish...
but what if not all shadows were wicked and malicious, what if there was a reason a certain shadow in particular that was making all this trouble??What if the only thing the others want is to head back to their planet and rebuild their life without hiding....Well Leah is gonna give it a try
3 words about this book
mysterious
breathtaking
paranormal
Meradeth Houston knows how to keep us attached in her book.It's full of mystery and intrigue...it is practically fascinating...if anything needs to be called paranormal it is this book...Leah's character is built with strong and feisty characteristics and let me tell you she is not a woman to pity and that's why we adore her. When life knocks her down she gets up on her own and instantly makes a heroine model.Together she and Adam will discover truths and form a relationship so strong that even the darkness that lurks cannot break her up
Beautiful book had me jumping up and down for more
Leah has always seen them....Lurking in shadows and dark alleys, in her home and killing her family making her the one responsible for that...Leah is on the run now
She decides she has had enough of them invading her life....and her meeting with 2 boys who can see them too..oh well..it's the shadow's death wish...
but what if not all shadows were wicked and malicious, what if there was a reason a certain shadow in particular that was making all this trouble??What if the only thing the others want is to head back to their planet and rebuild their life without hiding....Well Leah is gonna give it a try
3 words about this book
mysterious
breathtaking
paranormal
Meradeth Houston knows how to keep us attached in her book.It's full of mystery and intrigue...it is practically fascinating...if anything needs to be called paranormal it is this book...Leah's character is built with strong and feisty characteristics and let me tell you she is not a woman to pity and that's why we adore her. When life knocks her down she gets up on her own and instantly makes a heroine model.Together she and Adam will discover truths and form a relationship so strong that even the darkness that lurks cannot break her up
Beautiful book had me jumping up and down for more
June 13, 2015
A strong YA novel dealing with the paranormal. "Shadows" taking control of people and doing absolutely horrific things with them to and to them. The book starts off right after Leah's family had been killed and the police were on their way. Leah knew she couldn't stay because everything pointed at her. If only her family had listened to her.
A well written and intriguing book, I was captured right away with the story and found myself thinking about aspects of it and the Shadows, even when I wasn't reading. I wanted to get back to the story and see where it would go. The actual dialogue wasn't as fluid as the story itself, but that's not what gears the reader into the story anyway. It's almost like white noise, but not in a negative way, because of the paranormal aspect throughout the book, I just wanted to know more about the Shadows.
Leah is a strong lead and as a reader, I found her admirable. She has her faults, like every person does, but she is also loyal, brave and quite the fighter. For someone who's lost their family to something that others can't seem to understand, she keeps on pushing through. Her inner guilt is always just at bay.
This is a great read and one that will linger with me for days. If you enjoy a good paranormal book, without all the romance involved, this is the book for you. I look forward to reading more from this author.
A well written and intriguing book, I was captured right away with the story and found myself thinking about aspects of it and the Shadows, even when I wasn't reading. I wanted to get back to the story and see where it would go. The actual dialogue wasn't as fluid as the story itself, but that's not what gears the reader into the story anyway. It's almost like white noise, but not in a negative way, because of the paranormal aspect throughout the book, I just wanted to know more about the Shadows.
Leah is a strong lead and as a reader, I found her admirable. She has her faults, like every person does, but she is also loyal, brave and quite the fighter. For someone who's lost their family to something that others can't seem to understand, she keeps on pushing through. Her inner guilt is always just at bay.
This is a great read and one that will linger with me for days. If you enjoy a good paranormal book, without all the romance involved, this is the book for you. I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 21, 2015
I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. It was given to me by Lovers of Paranormal on Goodreads.com.
Lee is on the run. No money, stolen car, bloody clothing...
Her entire family has been slaughtered and she knows the noose is tightening. Both the authorities and the killers are breathing down her neck. And if either of them catch her, she's done for. The police will lock her up forever and the killers are unstoppable, unkillable, Shadows invisible to everyone but her.
But then she crosses paths with the two men who will change her life: one who will make her believe in herself and help heal her soul, and one who might just be her future. And then the Shadows find her and she realizes that she truly is not alone, and reluctantly discovers abilities that might just save the world. Or, at least, most of it.
I enjoyed this story very much. For me, it was a quick read, but kept me turning the pages. It was a bit formulaic, but the twists it did have were unexpected and interesting. The story flowed nicely and had great character development. I would certainly read more from this author!
Lee is on the run. No money, stolen car, bloody clothing...
Her entire family has been slaughtered and she knows the noose is tightening. Both the authorities and the killers are breathing down her neck. And if either of them catch her, she's done for. The police will lock her up forever and the killers are unstoppable, unkillable, Shadows invisible to everyone but her.
But then she crosses paths with the two men who will change her life: one who will make her believe in herself and help heal her soul, and one who might just be her future. And then the Shadows find her and she realizes that she truly is not alone, and reluctantly discovers abilities that might just save the world. Or, at least, most of it.
I enjoyed this story very much. For me, it was a quick read, but kept me turning the pages. It was a bit formulaic, but the twists it did have were unexpected and interesting. The story flowed nicely and had great character development. I would certainly read more from this author!
October 2, 2015
I was given an ARC book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.
CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS
This book was Amazing. I would give it 10 stars if I could. It gripped me from the very first page and didn't let go until the end. I wasn't able to fly through reading it. I had to take my time reading each and every word afraid that I would miss something.
Leah is a smart young girl. She started college at age 16. Leah's only problem is that she sees and senses things that no one else does. The shadows move, harm, are evil. After the shadows kill her family, Leah runs knowing that they are coming for her. On this run, when her stolen car runs out of gas, she meets Manuel. Manuel is the first person that she has ever met that sees the shadows too. Manuel's kind soul gives Leah a place to land and stop her running. But the shadows are coming. How are Leah and Manuel able to stay safely in one place? Is there a way to stop the shadows?
I will never look at Shadows the same way again. Thank you Meradeth for a wonderful read. I will definitely read more books by this author!
CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS
This book was Amazing. I would give it 10 stars if I could. It gripped me from the very first page and didn't let go until the end. I wasn't able to fly through reading it. I had to take my time reading each and every word afraid that I would miss something.
Leah is a smart young girl. She started college at age 16. Leah's only problem is that she sees and senses things that no one else does. The shadows move, harm, are evil. After the shadows kill her family, Leah runs knowing that they are coming for her. On this run, when her stolen car runs out of gas, she meets Manuel. Manuel is the first person that she has ever met that sees the shadows too. Manuel's kind soul gives Leah a place to land and stop her running. But the shadows are coming. How are Leah and Manuel able to stay safely in one place? Is there a way to stop the shadows?
I will never look at Shadows the same way again. Thank you Meradeth for a wonderful read. I will definitely read more books by this author!
November 6, 2014
If Shakespeare had written paranormal YA (well, he almost did – what about the ghost in Macbeth?), he might have written ABSENCE OF LIGHT by Meradeth Houston. Why Shakespeare? Because he had the gift of drawing characters that were multifaceted – there were no villains in his plays who were evil, through and through, with no redeeming characteristics. Houston is up to her usual artistry here, creating characters that you empathize with in one moment, and then, in the next moment, you question your earlier assessment. The hinge of the plot depends on the evil (or so we think), black, oily Shadows, who have killed the feisty protagonist Leah's family. But, (no spoilers, here) there is more to the Shadows that we see at first glance. Be prepared to be surprised – and to enjoy Houston's trademark sassy/savvy protagonist's voice and her command of vivid place and action descriptors. If you like paranormal with smarts, snap this one up!
November 9, 2014
This story pulled me in from the very first scene. Leah's entire family has been murdered and only she knows who is responsible. No one else can see the shadows—or so Leah thinks. She flees, not wanting to be blamed for the deaths of her family members, and winds up finding a group of people who can see the shadows like she can. Only they seem to be more prepared to fight the shadows.
There is a love story here, but it never overshadows (ugh, really bad pun) the story. There's plenty of action to keep you glued to the pages. And I loved the twist with one shadow in particular. No spoilers but I didn't see that coming and thought it was a nice touch. It definitely pulled Leah out of her comfort zone. I also give Houston kudos for being able to surprise me. I tend to figure plots out very quickly, but she kept me guessing.
This is a great book for sci-fi fans. It's dark, action-packed, emotional, and fast-paced. I had a hard time putting it down.
There is a love story here, but it never overshadows (ugh, really bad pun) the story. There's plenty of action to keep you glued to the pages. And I loved the twist with one shadow in particular. No spoilers but I didn't see that coming and thought it was a nice touch. It definitely pulled Leah out of her comfort zone. I also give Houston kudos for being able to surprise me. I tend to figure plots out very quickly, but she kept me guessing.
This is a great book for sci-fi fans. It's dark, action-packed, emotional, and fast-paced. I had a hard time putting it down.
April 9, 2015
Leah...oh my poor Leah.
An Absence of Light by Meredith Houston was an incredible read. It's been a while since I've read a book where right from the start, I'm captivated. Ms. Houston's approach is a bit different. She begins the novel with Leah and the death of her family, and it was done with only the finesse a veteran author could pull off.
Instead of gradually building the characters, story, plot, etc. Ms. Houston jumps right in and takes you on a wild ride. It's throughout the story that we learn about Leah, the other cast of equally important characters, the Shadows, etc.
I couldn't put this down from the moment I picked it up. There was never a dull moment. There were tender, sweet, sad and down right scary elements to this book, but all blended in together beautifully.
I'd highly recommend An Absence of Light to lovers of YA with paranormal and thriller elements. This was action packed from page one to The End.
An Absence of Light by Meredith Houston was an incredible read. It's been a while since I've read a book where right from the start, I'm captivated. Ms. Houston's approach is a bit different. She begins the novel with Leah and the death of her family, and it was done with only the finesse a veteran author could pull off.
Instead of gradually building the characters, story, plot, etc. Ms. Houston jumps right in and takes you on a wild ride. It's throughout the story that we learn about Leah, the other cast of equally important characters, the Shadows, etc.
I couldn't put this down from the moment I picked it up. There was never a dull moment. There were tender, sweet, sad and down right scary elements to this book, but all blended in together beautifully.
I'd highly recommend An Absence of Light to lovers of YA with paranormal and thriller elements. This was action packed from page one to The End.
June 12, 2015
*I’m posting this as part of the XpressoBookTours An Absence of Light Blog Tour. I recieved a free ebook copy of this in order to do so.
An Absence of Light is a book full of action, growth, bravery, romance, and perhaps even horror. I honestly didn’t find it scary, however if I were to deal with something like that in real life, then yeah, I’d be pretty terrified. We follow Leah in the beginning after the tragic death of her family, and then she runs away and stumbles upon a man who can also see the shadows. It all begins unraveling from there, learning more of her special abilities, of the shadows, and of how to possibly solve the problems the shadows’ mere presence create. In the midst, there’s romance, action, and a whole lot of twists.
See my full review here: Fishing For Books.
An Absence of Light is a book full of action, growth, bravery, romance, and perhaps even horror. I honestly didn’t find it scary, however if I were to deal with something like that in real life, then yeah, I’d be pretty terrified. We follow Leah in the beginning after the tragic death of her family, and then she runs away and stumbles upon a man who can also see the shadows. It all begins unraveling from there, learning more of her special abilities, of the shadows, and of how to possibly solve the problems the shadows’ mere presence create. In the midst, there’s romance, action, and a whole lot of twists.
See my full review here: Fishing For Books.
December 16, 2015
Part of this book reminded me of the way The Mortal Instruments started off, in the way that only Leah could see the evil things known as Shadows. So, when her whole family was killed, she could not stay because people would obviously view her as a suspect in murdering her family. The Shadows. That's what she called them. I got really excited while reading this book, because it became so alien-ish. And the other thing that I quite liked was that there wasn't really a main romantic focus in this book. It mainly talks about the Shadows, though there were hints of feelings here and there. As for Leah, I really liked her character. I find her unique, because she has this sarcastic charm HAHA. Every word that comes out of her mouth has a hidden sarcasm, and it's sad because she used that sarcasm to hide the fact that she feels guilty for her family's death. Guys, you need this book okay :)
June 13, 2015
What if the shadows in the corner of the room aren't simple shadows at all, but are actually evil beings out to get you. That is the interesting premise of this story, which launches you right into the action from the very first sentence, following the brutal murder of Leah's family by said shadows.
Leah's stifling,chest tightening fear and need to flee the scene grabbed hold of my attention from the outset and the writer didn't let go until the end of the book. Fast paced, and with characters whose outcome I was ultimately invested in. Throw in the developing relationships between Leah and her new friends, and you have a real gem of a story.
If I'm being honest, what stops this from being a 5* read is the ending. To me, it felt a little rushed; a little bland and formulaic. Perhaps a little unsatisfying. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this story.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Leah's stifling,chest tightening fear and need to flee the scene grabbed hold of my attention from the outset and the writer didn't let go until the end of the book. Fast paced, and with characters whose outcome I was ultimately invested in. Throw in the developing relationships between Leah and her new friends, and you have a real gem of a story.
If I'm being honest, what stops this from being a 5* read is the ending. To me, it felt a little rushed; a little bland and formulaic. Perhaps a little unsatisfying. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this story.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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