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Grace Bloods #1
Death's Dancer
Isela Vogel has the power to attract the favor of the gods for anyone who can pay her fee but struggles to hide the degenerative hip condition that will end her career. Then she's offered a job that will set her and her family up for life. Though her prospective patron is a formidable necromancer with a heated and infuriating gaze, she can hardly refuse the payday.
The Allegiance of Necromancers is powerful but not omnipotent, and when someone starts murdering his kind, Azrael must enlist a human in order to track down the killer. But why does she have to be so frustratingly stubborn--and intriguing? Azrael can make the dead walk, but he can't make the very much alive Isela toe any line.
Isela is thrown into a world of supernatural creatures--demons after dark, witches in the shadows, shifters running wild in city parks--where the grace of gods can truly infuse the blood of the most mortal-seeming dancer. As the danger increases with each thrilling discovery, trusting Azrael may be the only way to survive a conspiracy to destroy the fragile peace of a broken world.
But the greatest threat is their growing attraction. Dancers and necromancers don't mix for a reason--it turns out there are fates worse than death.
Journey to the magical streets of Prague in an alternate present-day supernatural thriller for lovers of romantic urban fantasy.
The Allegiance of Necromancers is powerful but not omnipotent, and when someone starts murdering his kind, Azrael must enlist a human in order to track down the killer. But why does she have to be so frustratingly stubborn--and intriguing? Azrael can make the dead walk, but he can't make the very much alive Isela toe any line.
Isela is thrown into a world of supernatural creatures--demons after dark, witches in the shadows, shifters running wild in city parks--where the grace of gods can truly infuse the blood of the most mortal-seeming dancer. As the danger increases with each thrilling discovery, trusting Azrael may be the only way to survive a conspiracy to destroy the fragile peace of a broken world.
But the greatest threat is their growing attraction. Dancers and necromancers don't mix for a reason--it turns out there are fates worse than death.
Journey to the magical streets of Prague in an alternate present-day supernatural thriller for lovers of romantic urban fantasy.
318 pages, Paperback
First published December 27, 2016
99 people are currently reading
1940 people want to read
About the author
Jasmine Silvera
8 books135 followersJasmine Silvera spent her impressionable years sneaking "kissing books" between comics and fantasy movies. She's been mixing them up in her writing ever since. She is the author of three books in the Grace Bloods series: Death's Dancer, Dancer's Flame, and The Talon & the Blade. Binding Shadows, the first book in the Tooth & Spell trilogy, is forthcoming in 2020.
Jasmine loves hearing from readers, find her online at:
www.jasminesilvera.com
www.facebook.com/jassilvera
www.twitter.com/jassilvera
Want more Grace Bloods? Sign up for Jasmine's monthly newsletter at:
www.jasminesilvera.com/newsletter
Jasmine loves hearing from readers, find her online at:
www.jasminesilvera.com
www.facebook.com/jassilvera
www.twitter.com/jassilvera
Want more Grace Bloods? Sign up for Jasmine's monthly newsletter at:
www.jasminesilvera.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
August 13, 2017
Death's Dancer by Jasmine Silvera is a kindle scout book and I was eager to start it. The idea and plot was good, the characters were developed. I just had a hard time staying focused on the story. I am not sure why. It was an okay read.
August 8, 2023
First Read: July 2022
Second Read: August 2023
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
4 ⭐️
Quick note: if you liked Daughter of Smoke and Bone, I think you will most definitely like this book.
So this is what I would call a hidden gem, with only 400 ratings and just under 100 reviews on Goodreads, this first book in a trilogy started off in the best of ways. This isn't a recent series, this first book is from 2016 - but I'm very happy I found it and finally decided to pick it up.
Set in Prague (hence the DOSAB comparison) after an event they call the godswar, this was an incredibly interesting story, with all the paranormal beings you need, and a morally gray love interest to match - a mix of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, something I hadn't read in a while.
Azrael - our resident bad-boy love interest - is a possessive, but protective, Necromancer who rules over Europe while residing in Prague, with a close-knit group of loyal guards he has a problem that needs fixing. In comes Isela, a dancer to the gods, with an unfortunate deteriorating health condition that is threatening her career. When these two meet, sparks fly, and I'll let you discover where they lead.
This book had some really pretty writing, and with such an interesting concept that I couldn't help but keep reading. Dancing had such a cool part to play in this story, and in talking to the gods, and while Isela was faced with a lot of challenges, she held up her own and made for a very cool character to follow.
I would have liked a little more on our nemesis, and the overall background of everything, but this is the first book in a series and I'm very curious to where this will go next. I also think that the love was a little insta-love at the beginning, but I think the author did a great job at creating substance and making them feel like a real couple. Other than that I can't really get too much into some things because they would spoil part of the book.
Overall a very solid start to the series, and I will definitely be reading book two, maybe closer to some colder weather, this definitely feels like a Fall kind of book.
Second Read: August 2023
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
4 ⭐️
Quick note: if you liked Daughter of Smoke and Bone, I think you will most definitely like this book.
So this is what I would call a hidden gem, with only 400 ratings and just under 100 reviews on Goodreads, this first book in a trilogy started off in the best of ways. This isn't a recent series, this first book is from 2016 - but I'm very happy I found it and finally decided to pick it up.
Set in Prague (hence the DOSAB comparison) after an event they call the godswar, this was an incredibly interesting story, with all the paranormal beings you need, and a morally gray love interest to match - a mix of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, something I hadn't read in a while.
Azrael - our resident bad-boy love interest - is a possessive, but protective, Necromancer who rules over Europe while residing in Prague, with a close-knit group of loyal guards he has a problem that needs fixing. In comes Isela, a dancer to the gods, with an unfortunate deteriorating health condition that is threatening her career. When these two meet, sparks fly, and I'll let you discover where they lead.
This book had some really pretty writing, and with such an interesting concept that I couldn't help but keep reading. Dancing had such a cool part to play in this story, and in talking to the gods, and while Isela was faced with a lot of challenges, she held up her own and made for a very cool character to follow.
I would have liked a little more on our nemesis, and the overall background of everything, but this is the first book in a series and I'm very curious to where this will go next. I also think that the love was a little insta-love at the beginning, but I think the author did a great job at creating substance and making them feel like a real couple. Other than that I can't really get too much into some things because they would spoil part of the book.
Overall a very solid start to the series, and I will definitely be reading book two, maybe closer to some colder weather, this definitely feels like a Fall kind of book.
April 11, 2018
I had a difficult time getting in this book at the beginning. It’s not at all my normal genre. The “world” is hard to understand at first, with a number of made-up terms like “godsdancer.” But once I let myself go with the flow, I found I really enjoyed the story and the romance.
Isela Vogel is an American-born dancer. In this world, which is Earth at some point in the future, with paranormal and supernatural beings, dancers are somehow used to communicate with the gods, or at least the advanced beings that humans have called gods throughout history. After a worldwide conflict a half century previous to the story, called the godswar, powerful beings called necromancers have taken control of the world. Isela is called by one of these necromancers, named Azrael, because he believes she will enhance his power and help him discover a murderer.
What I really liked about the book was all the different characters and how, with their varied personalities, they managed to work together for the good of the world. The romance between Isela and Azrael was originally insta-lust, but the author did a good job of making it more, IMO.
I really enjoyed this book and have preordered book 2.
Isela Vogel is an American-born dancer. In this world, which is Earth at some point in the future, with paranormal and supernatural beings, dancers are somehow used to communicate with the gods, or at least the advanced beings that humans have called gods throughout history. After a worldwide conflict a half century previous to the story, called the godswar, powerful beings called necromancers have taken control of the world. Isela is called by one of these necromancers, named Azrael, because he believes she will enhance his power and help him discover a murderer.
What I really liked about the book was all the different characters and how, with their varied personalities, they managed to work together for the good of the world. The romance between Isela and Azrael was originally insta-lust, but the author did a good job of making it more, IMO.
I really enjoyed this book and have preordered book 2.
no-thank-you
April 29, 2018For personal comfort, I nope right out of any romance where a male main character basically says "I'm offended you thought I'd rape someone, I would never do that. Besides, I get plenty of willing women!" The implication that rape is a backup strategy in case you can't get sex just does not work for me. I realize the author may not have meant it that way, and I'm sure that's not her personal belief, but the way it came across means I don't want to hang out for that character's journey.
February 7, 2019
I absolutely adored this, something completely different and couldn’t put it down. I loved Isela and Azrael. Isela was the amazing rarest of things in good fantasy, a strong female lead who didn’t lose her strength, didn’t back down and kept true to herself, even after meeting a male she loved ! Cannot wait to read the sequel.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
December 1, 2023
Well DEATH’S DANCER ended up being one of the most unique and interesting fantasy/paranormal romances I've ever read and I absolutely loved it! It takes place in an alternate future of Prague where the world is divided up into territories, each one ruled by an immortal and dangerous Necromancer. Many years before the Necromancer Allegiance ended the godswar and saved humanity, but now someone is killing low level Necromancers and the Allegiance needs the help of Isela Vogel, a godsdancer with the power to attract the favor of the gods. I was completely sucked into the beautiful prose, fantastic storytelling, and amazing characters that I fell hard and deep for.
The world building was so interesting and I loved the way dance was incorporated into the story as a way to attract the gods. This was such a stunning fantasy creation and I can't wait to read the next book and learn more about this world.
The romance was so swoony and romantic! Isela is resistant to Azrael at first because of his status as an immortal Necromancer but the more time they spend together the more she starts to fall for him. Even with Azrael's immense power he still respects Isela and I was pleasantly surprised at the way he almost gently courts her. I quickly fell for Azrael and he’s the perfect balance of dangerous and powerful without being too overbearing.
I also loved Isela’s independence and her confidence. She knows her worth as a godsdancer and can take care of herself. Even when she’s confronted with the fearsome Allegiance she stands her ground and doesn't let them push her around. She’s a perfect match for Azrael because she’s not afraid of him or his people.
The Vogel family was also delightful! I actually read BINDING SHADOWS first, which is the start of a prequel series about the Vogel brothers, and now that I've seen them with their wives I can't wait to read how they got there.
Content Warning: on page death of a parent; torture and graphic violence
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Connected Series:
1. Grace Bloods
2. Tooth & Spell
The world building was so interesting and I loved the way dance was incorporated into the story as a way to attract the gods. This was such a stunning fantasy creation and I can't wait to read the next book and learn more about this world.
The romance was so swoony and romantic! Isela is resistant to Azrael at first because of his status as an immortal Necromancer but the more time they spend together the more she starts to fall for him. Even with Azrael's immense power he still respects Isela and I was pleasantly surprised at the way he almost gently courts her. I quickly fell for Azrael and he’s the perfect balance of dangerous and powerful without being too overbearing.
I also loved Isela’s independence and her confidence. She knows her worth as a godsdancer and can take care of herself. Even when she’s confronted with the fearsome Allegiance she stands her ground and doesn't let them push her around. She’s a perfect match for Azrael because she’s not afraid of him or his people.
The Vogel family was also delightful! I actually read BINDING SHADOWS first, which is the start of a prequel series about the Vogel brothers, and now that I've seen them with their wives I can't wait to read how they got there.
Content Warning: on page death of a parent; torture and graphic violence
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Connected Series:
1. Grace Bloods
2. Tooth & Spell
August 7, 2020
*shelved as 'steamy' but it is mostly off page/fade to black.
February 23, 2019
I could have lover this story but in the end I just rather liked it which is a shame...
The good points were plentiful, my reservations are more about technique.
I loved the heroine, her personality, her relationship with her passion and job - dancing. Frequently when a character have such a passion (sport, music, art...) it's just used for the narrative but easily forget when the author doesn't need it. In this book the subject is thoroughly exposed, we are never to forget the importance of dancing for Isela.
I also like how we understand how she looks like without any use of labels.
The story was original and could have been fascinating, alas the reading was a little of flat for me...
I thought about it and concluded about three points which irked me.
The first one is the love interest: he's very caricatural.
I understand that it's voluntary, the writer use a sterotype to show how her pragmatic and sensible heroine reacts. She also takes the trouble to explain how his longevity impacted upon his psychology. But in the end it wasn't enough for me, he still was very cliched and not very interesting...
Another problem I had was with the secondary characters: they were, for most of them (especially the besties and the family members, the team members were great) introduced much too quickly. I couldn't feel anything about the best friends, who seemed to be there just for show and didn't understand why we had to learn so much about her brothers' wives. Well, I did, afterwards, but while reading the first family reunion it was rather boring. In a way I felt that I would have liked to read a prequel of this story, where the family and friends would have been probably introduced with plenty of show don't tell instead of these very quick presentations...
The world building, if interesting, was sometimes a bit fuzzy. For instance when Isela learns the incredible facts about her family she didn't seemed very surprised... But she should have been flabbergasted! So I wondered, maybe she wasn't much surprised because these particularities are mundane in this alternative world? And speaking about that, what is strange for her and what isn't ? What else have I missed?
Well, I quibble a lot because I was frustrated by my reading and because I am such a quibbler! But if you like inventive and personal urban fantasy, with a likeable and able female main character, you should definitely read this book which has many qualities!
(I thank Netgalley and No Inside Voice for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review)
The good points were plentiful, my reservations are more about technique.
I loved the heroine, her personality, her relationship with her passion and job - dancing. Frequently when a character have such a passion (sport, music, art...) it's just used for the narrative but easily forget when the author doesn't need it. In this book the subject is thoroughly exposed, we are never to forget the importance of dancing for Isela.
I also like how we understand how she looks like without any use of labels.
The story was original and could have been fascinating, alas the reading was a little of flat for me...
I thought about it and concluded about three points which irked me.
The first one is the love interest: he's very caricatural.
I understand that it's voluntary, the writer use a sterotype to show how her pragmatic and sensible heroine reacts. She also takes the trouble to explain how his longevity impacted upon his psychology. But in the end it wasn't enough for me, he still was very cliched and not very interesting...
Another problem I had was with the secondary characters: they were, for most of them (especially the besties and the family members, the team members were great) introduced much too quickly. I couldn't feel anything about the best friends, who seemed to be there just for show and didn't understand why we had to learn so much about her brothers' wives. Well, I did, afterwards, but while reading the first family reunion it was rather boring. In a way I felt that I would have liked to read a prequel of this story, where the family and friends would have been probably introduced with plenty of show don't tell instead of these very quick presentations...
The world building, if interesting, was sometimes a bit fuzzy. For instance when Isela learns the incredible facts about her family she didn't seemed very surprised... But she should have been flabbergasted! So I wondered, maybe she wasn't much surprised because these particularities are mundane in this alternative world? And speaking about that, what is strange for her and what isn't ? What else have I missed?
Well, I quibble a lot because I was frustrated by my reading and because I am such a quibbler! But if you like inventive and personal urban fantasy, with a likeable and able female main character, you should definitely read this book which has many qualities!
(I thank Netgalley and No Inside Voice for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review)
February 7, 2019
I absolutely adored this, something completely different and couldn’t put it down. I loved Isela and Azrael. Isela was the amazing rarest of things in good fantasy, a strong female lead who didn’t lose her strength, didn’t back down and kept true to herself, even after meeting a male she loved ! Cannot wait to read the sequel.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
July 30, 2019
I've had this book on my kindle for a while, and am kicking myself for not reading it earlier. I'd been in a reading rut and this totally broke me out.
I loved the world of godsdancers and necromancers that Silvera creates. We're dropped into the middle of it and Silvera respects her readers enough to portion out backstory when needed, in a way that reinforces the strength of the worldbuilding.
The story is intelligent and finely crafted and her writing is lyrical and elegant. I was totally hooked all the way through.
My main quibble is there are a couple of big family secrets kept from main character, Isela, that she handles with inordinate grace. I seriously would have a hard time ever speaking to my family again if those things had been withheld from me, and I wanted more righteous indignation and anger from her, especially given her personality.
But overall, I loved it and am on to the next in the series! Highly recommended!
I loved the world of godsdancers and necromancers that Silvera creates. We're dropped into the middle of it and Silvera respects her readers enough to portion out backstory when needed, in a way that reinforces the strength of the worldbuilding.
The story is intelligent and finely crafted and her writing is lyrical and elegant. I was totally hooked all the way through.
My main quibble is there are a couple of big family secrets kept from main character, Isela, that she handles with inordinate grace. I seriously would have a hard time ever speaking to my family again if those things had been withheld from me, and I wanted more righteous indignation and anger from her, especially given her personality.
But overall, I loved it and am on to the next in the series! Highly recommended!
October 21, 2021
Very intriguing and unlike anything I’ve ever read, but I did have some trouble getting into the actual story. Will be continuing the series in hopes that it’ll be much easier to follow from here on out.
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April 29, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/29/2019)! 🎁
December 22, 2021
This entire tale was a unique fantasy spin. I wouldn’t have ever thought of dancing as a main focal point, but it worked. The power balance between Isela and Azrael, along with the end results, was a bit of a head spin, yet overall I enjoyed the story immensely.
February 21, 2017
In an alternate fantasy world, godsdancers communicate via dance with powerful beings whom they call gods, asking through their performances that the "gods" intervene in human lives in large ways and small. Fifty years ago, a two-week international conflict between warring nations using godsdancers as weapons left the world on the verge of chaos, until an eight-member cabal of powerful necromancers stepped in, cutting up the world into territories over which ruled. And order was restored. Oh, and this world also has witches. And shapeshifters. Which we don't find out until mid-book.
This particular story is about one godsdancer, American Isela Vogel, who has moved with her family to Prague, and Europe's ruling necromancer, Azrael. Minor necromancers are turning up murdered, and Azrael has been tapped by the other ruling necromancers to find the killer. But he'd having trouble contacting the murdered, and needs the additional power of the godlike creatures to help him communicate. He hires Isela to fill that role. And the two are immediately drawn to one another.
This is a promising debut by a new author, with many likable characters and appealing relationships, especially between Isela and her fellow dancers, and Isela and her family.
The book does have some major flaws, though. First, the fantasy world-building is not very fully developed. I was left scratching my head over a lot of what this world is supposed to be about. For example, if necromancers have been around for thousands of years, why was it only 50 years ago that they took power? Do necromancers, witches, and shapeshifters all draw from similar powers, or are their magics of a different kind? What exactly are these god-like creatures through whom the godsdancers channel power? Why is dancing the way they are reached? How was godsdancing discovered? Do the "gods" draw on the same powers as the other supernatural folks in this world? How human are necromancers? Etc. etc. etc. The author is clearly not that interested in explaining/exploring this world, a problem for this fantasy reader.
Second, the romance is of the insta-love type. There isn't any real explanation for why Azrael would/should fall for Isela, or her for him. He's hot, attractive, and powerful, of course, which seems to be enough of a justification for many romance readers. But why is Azrael drawn to Isela? And why should he be? Just like the world-building, the romance itself feels underdeveloped.
Finally, and this may just be a pet peeve of mine, but I have a hard time when a human character is paired up with a supernatural being as a romantic partner. There's little to no chance of having an equitable, or close-to-equal, partnership when the power dynamics are weighted so heavily in one partner's favor. By book's end, Isela has to in order to save Azrael, which is meant, I suppose, to make the relationship more equal, but just ends up feeling like Isela herself is not enough on her own to be his romantic match.
This particular story is about one godsdancer, American Isela Vogel, who has moved with her family to Prague, and Europe's ruling necromancer, Azrael. Minor necromancers are turning up murdered, and Azrael has been tapped by the other ruling necromancers to find the killer. But he'd having trouble contacting the murdered, and needs the additional power of the godlike creatures to help him communicate. He hires Isela to fill that role. And the two are immediately drawn to one another.
This is a promising debut by a new author, with many likable characters and appealing relationships, especially between Isela and her fellow dancers, and Isela and her family.
The book does have some major flaws, though. First, the fantasy world-building is not very fully developed. I was left scratching my head over a lot of what this world is supposed to be about. For example, if necromancers have been around for thousands of years, why was it only 50 years ago that they took power? Do necromancers, witches, and shapeshifters all draw from similar powers, or are their magics of a different kind? What exactly are these god-like creatures through whom the godsdancers channel power? Why is dancing the way they are reached? How was godsdancing discovered? Do the "gods" draw on the same powers as the other supernatural folks in this world? How human are necromancers? Etc. etc. etc. The author is clearly not that interested in explaining/exploring this world, a problem for this fantasy reader.
Second, the romance is of the insta-love type. There isn't any real explanation for why Azrael would/should fall for Isela, or her for him. He's hot, attractive, and powerful, of course, which seems to be enough of a justification for many romance readers. But why is Azrael drawn to Isela? And why should he be? Just like the world-building, the romance itself feels underdeveloped.
Finally, and this may just be a pet peeve of mine, but I have a hard time when a human character is paired up with a supernatural being as a romantic partner. There's little to no chance of having an equitable, or close-to-equal, partnership when the power dynamics are weighted so heavily in one partner's favor. By book's end, Isela has to in order to save Azrael, which is meant, I suppose, to make the relationship more equal, but just ends up feeling like Isela herself is not enough on her own to be his romantic match.
March 1, 2018
Really enjoyable!
In this world, the supernatural powers harnessed by godsdancers almost destroyed the earth. The Allegiance of Necromancers, creatures with power over death, stepped in to preserve order, and divided the world. Under their rule, godsdancing is regulated and subject to oversight. Isela is one of the best, and she is called on by the necromancer Azrael to dance for a power much greater than her regular fare.
This is a world that feels well lived in, which is helped by the large supporting cast. Isela's comrades at the academy, Azrael's guards, and Isela's family all have their roles in the events that unfold. (Plus her family are excellent.) Isela's dancing is described in a lovely, evocative way, and she has an inner strength that's very compelling. The chemistry between Isela and Azrael is steamy, and the romance is well-balanced with the action. I also appreciated the author's characterization of Azrael; while he is seriously powerful and inhuman, he's also a fair leader and capable of real gentleness. On a meta level, there's some neat stuff going on with life and death, chaos and order, and the strength it takes to love.
I'm really glad I picked this one up.
In this world, the supernatural powers harnessed by godsdancers almost destroyed the earth. The Allegiance of Necromancers, creatures with power over death, stepped in to preserve order, and divided the world. Under their rule, godsdancing is regulated and subject to oversight. Isela is one of the best, and she is called on by the necromancer Azrael to dance for a power much greater than her regular fare.
This is a world that feels well lived in, which is helped by the large supporting cast. Isela's comrades at the academy, Azrael's guards, and Isela's family all have their roles in the events that unfold. (Plus her family are excellent.) Isela's dancing is described in a lovely, evocative way, and she has an inner strength that's very compelling. The chemistry between Isela and Azrael is steamy, and the romance is well-balanced with the action. I also appreciated the author's characterization of Azrael; while he is seriously powerful and inhuman, he's also a fair leader and capable of real gentleness. On a meta level, there's some neat stuff going on with life and death, chaos and order, and the strength it takes to love.
I'm really glad I picked this one up.
February 6, 2021
Despite my book friend's high recommendation and intriguing description of the book, I was a bit hesitant to dive into Death's Dancer. The only reason I could really attribute to the hesitancy, I'm not much into dancing or ballet and felt it wouldn't be my cuppa. Thankfully, I didn't let that stop me. This was a thoroughly engrossing read.
Jasmine Silvera was a new author to me, but one I will continue to follow from now on. I loved her writing style. I also found this world she's created with Grace Bloods to be rather unique. It's always nice to enter a world that, while it has some recognizable paranormal beings, tells a story you haven't heard before. It's so refreshing. The romance aspect turns this into an urban fantasy + romance, more so than paranormal romance, I think, but we'll see as I continue on with the series.
Jasmine Silvera was a new author to me, but one I will continue to follow from now on. I loved her writing style. I also found this world she's created with Grace Bloods to be rather unique. It's always nice to enter a world that, while it has some recognizable paranormal beings, tells a story you haven't heard before. It's so refreshing. The romance aspect turns this into an urban fantasy + romance, more so than paranormal romance, I think, but we'll see as I continue on with the series.
“You destroy my quiet.”I liked all of the characters - main and side. I'm very much looking forward to continuing on. I'm also excited to learn that Binding Shadows is about Isela's (DD's h) brother and his wife.
March 21, 2019
Finished this at 2 am this morning as I literally couldn't sleep until I reached the end.
What an impressive debut by Jasmine Silvera. Heart-pounding and action-packed with enough thoughtfully quiet moments that help the reader catch their breath. It's unpredictable, there's always a jaw-dropping twist when you think you've guessed the plot. Terrific sense of place that takes you where the action happens. I’ve always wanted to go to Prague and after reading this, I’m placing it right on the top of the list of my future destinations. I’ll bring my paperback copy for ”in the wild” pictorial.
Truly admirable writing. Jasmine had me moving along with the dance sequences she described in the first page. And the characters are absolutely fascinating. Though she named plenty, the stars are undoubtedly Isela and Azrael. Those two are just WOW. Powerful. Gorgeous. Sexy. Extraordinary. I love them.
I’ve had this book for quite awhile now, in both ebook and paperback, and I’m glad I decided to finally take it off my Mt. TBR and into my Keeper Shelf. One of the best books I’ve read this year and one of the best ever in the paranormal/fantasy sub-genre.
What an impressive debut by Jasmine Silvera. Heart-pounding and action-packed with enough thoughtfully quiet moments that help the reader catch their breath. It's unpredictable, there's always a jaw-dropping twist when you think you've guessed the plot. Terrific sense of place that takes you where the action happens. I’ve always wanted to go to Prague and after reading this, I’m placing it right on the top of the list of my future destinations. I’ll bring my paperback copy for ”in the wild” pictorial.
Truly admirable writing. Jasmine had me moving along with the dance sequences she described in the first page. And the characters are absolutely fascinating. Though she named plenty, the stars are undoubtedly Isela and Azrael. Those two are just WOW. Powerful. Gorgeous. Sexy. Extraordinary. I love them.
I’ve had this book for quite awhile now, in both ebook and paperback, and I’m glad I decided to finally take it off my Mt. TBR and into my Keeper Shelf. One of the best books I’ve read this year and one of the best ever in the paranormal/fantasy sub-genre.
May 31, 2019
I just finished reading Death's Dancer, and I wanted to put up a review.
This is a good book -great for a beach or bus. Good plot, good story, good descriptions. It's set in a roughly modern alternate universe and meant for adults (there's a bit of steamy stuff, as well as gory stuff).
That said, I really want more backstory for some of the framework... I was a little confused at a few points, how some things were sort of glossed over. I hope the second book explains some of that.
No idea if the second book will continue the adventures of the main character, but I'd love to read more about her.
9/10 will read again, will recommend, will get second book.
It's not life-changing literature, but it's very entertaining. :)
This is a good book -great for a beach or bus. Good plot, good story, good descriptions. It's set in a roughly modern alternate universe and meant for adults (there's a bit of steamy stuff, as well as gory stuff).
That said, I really want more backstory for some of the framework... I was a little confused at a few points, how some things were sort of glossed over. I hope the second book explains some of that.
No idea if the second book will continue the adventures of the main character, but I'd love to read more about her.
9/10 will read again, will recommend, will get second book.
It's not life-changing literature, but it's very entertaining. :)
December 18, 2019
A deftly crafted paranormal romance with fascinating world-building and well-rounded characters. Highly recommended for adult romance readers.
April 4, 2017
I read Death's Dancer as a judge of in the Golden Quill published authors contest, and rated it#1 of the paranormal books I read. I fell in love with Isela...and Azrael, the Lord of Death as well. Jasmine Silvera is now on my "to read" list!
March 31, 2017
unexpectedly delightful
A different kind of love story. It does not follow the same old trite formula. Hope there is a sequel
A different kind of love story. It does not follow the same old trite formula. Hope there is a sequel
May 1, 2019
If you enjoy this review, consider visiting my blog. I received this title for free in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book, and would love to check out book two (and any other books by this author), but there were a few things about this book that seemed a little unpolished. Primarily, I feel like not enough was learnt about Azrael. His dialogue seemed a bit canned, and even his backstory was standard fare for paranormal romance/urban fantasy. This book reminded me very much of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series, so perhaps Azrael only seems two-dimensional when compared to a detailed character like Raphael. Azrael’s sketched in character and backstory made him come off a little bland, which made the romance built between him and Isela seem, though I still enjoyed reading about their interactions.
I thought it also strained credulity a bit for Isela to have so little knowledge of her own family, and her relationship with Gregor changed very quickly, which I found somewhat confusing. I also think the various types of supernatural creatures should have been introduced or at least hinted at earlier, likewise for the antagonist. Without this foreshadowing, the conclusion seems less satisfying than it should have been.
My last (minor) issue with the book is the world-building. Though it was set in a dystopian Prague, the setting for the most part was left up to the reader’s imagination. I believe more subtly woven in threads of both real and fantasy touches would have brought the world to life, and allowed opportunities for subtle hints at the plot and supernatural inhabitants of the world.
Like I said, though, I did enjoy this book. Jasmine Silvera’s writing is engaging and interesting, and the world of the Grace Bloods has a lot of promise. There were several seeds planted that I can’t wait to see come to conclusion, with plenty of tension sure to lead to an action-packed sequel.
I like the cover, there’s something eye catching about a dancer mid-leap, and it fits the tone and content of the book quite well.
I liked Isela’s determination and strong character, and enjoyed the little realistic touches (changing into practical clothes for dancing, the emphasis on stretching to retain flexibility, and the work that goes into having wavy or curly hair) that made her a well-rounded individual, rather than a Strong Female Protagonist. Her relationship with the Academy’s director and her dancer friends was fun to read, and I hope to see these characters explored in more depth in future books. Likewise her family, both blood and by marriage.
Azrael’s Aegis (most notably Lyssipe) are an interesting way to explore his past and character, and I enjoyed the way Isela and he interacted with the staff at his castle also. His necromancy was left deliberately vague, and I hope in future books both the limits and source of his power are explored further.
This book would be well suited to fans of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series, Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels or Hidden Legacy series, or Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files. Death’s Dancer has a few minor hurdles, but overall is a solid start to a promising urban fantasy series.
I enjoyed this book, and would love to check out book two (and any other books by this author), but there were a few things about this book that seemed a little unpolished. Primarily, I feel like not enough was learnt about Azrael. His dialogue seemed a bit canned, and even his backstory was standard fare for paranormal romance/urban fantasy. This book reminded me very much of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series, so perhaps Azrael only seems two-dimensional when compared to a detailed character like Raphael. Azrael’s sketched in character and backstory made him come off a little bland, which made the romance built between him and Isela seem, though I still enjoyed reading about their interactions.
I thought it also strained credulity a bit for Isela to have so little knowledge of her own family, and her relationship with Gregor changed very quickly, which I found somewhat confusing. I also think the various types of supernatural creatures should have been introduced or at least hinted at earlier, likewise for the antagonist. Without this foreshadowing, the conclusion seems less satisfying than it should have been.
My last (minor) issue with the book is the world-building. Though it was set in a dystopian Prague, the setting for the most part was left up to the reader’s imagination. I believe more subtly woven in threads of both real and fantasy touches would have brought the world to life, and allowed opportunities for subtle hints at the plot and supernatural inhabitants of the world.
Like I said, though, I did enjoy this book. Jasmine Silvera’s writing is engaging and interesting, and the world of the Grace Bloods has a lot of promise. There were several seeds planted that I can’t wait to see come to conclusion, with plenty of tension sure to lead to an action-packed sequel.
I like the cover, there’s something eye catching about a dancer mid-leap, and it fits the tone and content of the book quite well.
I liked Isela’s determination and strong character, and enjoyed the little realistic touches (changing into practical clothes for dancing, the emphasis on stretching to retain flexibility, and the work that goes into having wavy or curly hair) that made her a well-rounded individual, rather than a Strong Female Protagonist. Her relationship with the Academy’s director and her dancer friends was fun to read, and I hope to see these characters explored in more depth in future books. Likewise her family, both blood and by marriage.
Azrael’s Aegis (most notably Lyssipe) are an interesting way to explore his past and character, and I enjoyed the way Isela and he interacted with the staff at his castle also. His necromancy was left deliberately vague, and I hope in future books both the limits and source of his power are explored further.
This book would be well suited to fans of Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series, Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels or Hidden Legacy series, or Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files. Death’s Dancer has a few minor hurdles, but overall is a solid start to a promising urban fantasy series.
May 25, 2019
This book had an interesting concept. I really enjoyed uncovering the mystery and different struggles for power happening in this world. It's definitely a fun ride.
The Writing: Wonderful prose that is lyrical and mesmerizing. It's clear Silvera spent a lot of time thinking about how to describe the dancing and action scenes. Her detail and research is appreciated. Several of her descriptions struck me as unique and fitting.
Characters: Isla has a unique personality. She's interesting and would stand out on her own as a person I'd want to read about even if she wasn't a God dancer helping to power a necromancer. After the last few books I've read with cardboard characters, it was very refreshing to have a protagonist whose motivations made sense and were consistent with a personality the writer sets up.
The love interest is pretty generic, but the people surrounding him all have interesting stories and reactions. I'd love a spin off series of shorts (or full novels) that tell the story of how they came into the love interest's service.
World: The world itself is probably the weakest part of the novel. It starts off strong and intriguing, but in the middle Silvera adds a ton of elements that begin to make her world more standard for urban fantasy. Jamming these elements in seemed rushed and also lost some of the shine this book had. I didn't dislike additions, but it felt so unlikely that a God dancer wouldn't know more about the supernatural. It really had me second guessing the world around Isla. I think the introduction of some of the later elements was too rushed and if Silvera had been able to slow down, these revelations would have fit with the rest of her tone and feel more organic.
The final arch has elements that are contrived, but by that time, I was so drawn into Isla's life, I didn't care.
Overall this is an excellent debut novel. The summary given doesn't do the story justice, and I'm really excited to read more from Silvera in the future.
The Writing: Wonderful prose that is lyrical and mesmerizing. It's clear Silvera spent a lot of time thinking about how to describe the dancing and action scenes. Her detail and research is appreciated. Several of her descriptions struck me as unique and fitting.
Characters: Isla has a unique personality. She's interesting and would stand out on her own as a person I'd want to read about even if she wasn't a God dancer helping to power a necromancer. After the last few books I've read with cardboard characters, it was very refreshing to have a protagonist whose motivations made sense and were consistent with a personality the writer sets up.
The love interest is pretty generic, but the people surrounding him all have interesting stories and reactions. I'd love a spin off series of shorts (or full novels) that tell the story of how they came into the love interest's service.
World: The world itself is probably the weakest part of the novel. It starts off strong and intriguing, but in the middle Silvera adds a ton of elements that begin to make her world more standard for urban fantasy. Jamming these elements in seemed rushed and also lost some of the shine this book had. I didn't dislike additions, but it felt so unlikely that a God dancer wouldn't know more about the supernatural. It really had me second guessing the world around Isla. I think the introduction of some of the later elements was too rushed and if Silvera had been able to slow down, these revelations would have fit with the rest of her tone and feel more organic.
The final arch has elements that are contrived, but by that time, I was so drawn into Isla's life, I didn't care.
Overall this is an excellent debut novel. The summary given doesn't do the story justice, and I'm really excited to read more from Silvera in the future.
June 21, 2017
I was confused when I first started this story. It might be because I came from a very different style of book before starting this one (I do like to mix my genres around), but I actually believe it to be for a different reason. There are lots of introduced terms here, like “godsdancer”, which take time to understand as in the beginning we receive little detail. Although, in some ways, that’s good, as not too much is given away until you are shown as the story unfolds (I do hate longwinded descriptions). So as the story moved forward, my eyes opened to the scenes, and I was hooked. Plus the developing relationship between our two main characters gives so much beautiful depth to the story. Both are strong willed and independent, one capable of crushing any defiance or resistance, the other challenging them to do just that.
Isela is certainly no fainting wall flower and is prepared to do what it takes to protect her family, whilst trying to stay faithful to the boundaries of her job. When those boundaries between dancer and patron start to blur, and she starts to realise that more is at stake than just the lives of herself and her family, her inner strength and bravery take her to places she’d never imagined.
Such wonderful characters. Such brilliant detail. You have to trawl through so much rubbish in the Kindle Scout program to find a rare gem like this, but this book is what makes it all worthwhile.
Final rating: ★★★★★ – Loved it/couldn't put it down
Isela is certainly no fainting wall flower and is prepared to do what it takes to protect her family, whilst trying to stay faithful to the boundaries of her job. When those boundaries between dancer and patron start to blur, and she starts to realise that more is at stake than just the lives of herself and her family, her inner strength and bravery take her to places she’d never imagined.
Such wonderful characters. Such brilliant detail. You have to trawl through so much rubbish in the Kindle Scout program to find a rare gem like this, but this book is what makes it all worthwhile.
Final rating: ★★★★★ – Loved it/couldn't put it down
January 25, 2019
Mystical and romantic this was a beautifully written book. Confused at first with the poetic writing and odd names it took a bit to get through. Once at the middle it got exciting and started to make sense. A dancer with skills to talk to the gods is summoned to help a necromancer solve a mysterious murder. What was a dangerous job turned into a life long change and a Pandora's box of secrets is opened. Definitely worth a read. Through the Kindle Scout program I received an advanced copy.
December 27, 2016
Such a fun read! I loved the characters and the incorporation of dancing. I wish we got more of a view of the world and a better understanding of what the war was like. But maybe in future books??
January 2, 2023
Thank heaven I left this behind in the middle of my micro slump and came back a few days later because this was fantastic, unique, and magical. And the descriptions of the dance routines were beautiful and had me imagining Isela celebrating her art so clearly it felt almost real.
This book (like my beloved Wolfsong by TJ Klune) is a supreme example of where the distinction between UF and PNR is so blurry that both apply. But as PNR is just UF where the romance is the primary element, that makes sense. And Death's Dancer also has some of the loveliest writing I've come across in UF/PNR, something I've only ever said before about Wolfsong.
Death's Dancer is equal parts romance and non-romance that I think is such a sweet spot for me. Which is odd because although most of my favourite PNR's are 'other' plot-heavy, many UF's that are romance heavy are frustrating to me because the romance gets in the way of the action and otherwise awesome story.
This also includes an overly 'alpha' type MMC that I don't usually enjoy, although I wouldn't say that he is bad enough to be called an alpha-hole. Azrael is incredibly arrogant, very bossy and somewhat possessive, but he is also highly capable (hence the arrogance) and is generally decent to most people (unless they cross him) including his very loyal staff. He is also an actual leader rather than a tyrant or a bully like many others. Azrael is also powerful, intelligent and virtually immortal, but not totally invincible as is shown a number of times in the story which is so refreshing. And he has moments of vulnerability which is what sold him to me after my initial distaste.
Isela is wonderful. She is literally a master of her craft but is struggling a little in her daily life because of the problems with her hip. In the story, we see that she does rely on some help from her friends and her family to relieve the pain at times. So often when things like these are part of the narrative, the author chooses to keep it a secret and cause unwarranted tension so I was really glad to see that not happen here. A small thing perhaps, but one that irritates me so much in lots of books. However, she is physically strong in ways that only dancers and athletes are because of the discipline necessary in the years-long training that makes them successful in their careers.
But Isela is also brave. So brave in the face of her new... TBC
This book (like my beloved Wolfsong by TJ Klune) is a supreme example of where the distinction between UF and PNR is so blurry that both apply. But as PNR is just UF where the romance is the primary element, that makes sense. And Death's Dancer also has some of the loveliest writing I've come across in UF/PNR, something I've only ever said before about Wolfsong.
Death's Dancer is equal parts romance and non-romance that I think is such a sweet spot for me. Which is odd because although most of my favourite PNR's are 'other' plot-heavy, many UF's that are romance heavy are frustrating to me because the romance gets in the way of the action and otherwise awesome story.
This also includes an overly 'alpha' type MMC that I don't usually enjoy, although I wouldn't say that he is bad enough to be called an alpha-hole. Azrael is incredibly arrogant, very bossy and somewhat possessive, but he is also highly capable (hence the arrogance) and is generally decent to most people (unless they cross him) including his very loyal staff. He is also an actual leader rather than a tyrant or a bully like many others. Azrael is also powerful, intelligent and virtually immortal, but not totally invincible as is shown a number of times in the story which is so refreshing. And he has moments of vulnerability which is what sold him to me after my initial distaste.
Isela is wonderful. She is literally a master of her craft but is struggling a little in her daily life because of the problems with her hip. In the story, we see that she does rely on some help from her friends and her family to relieve the pain at times. So often when things like these are part of the narrative, the author chooses to keep it a secret and cause unwarranted tension so I was really glad to see that not happen here. A small thing perhaps, but one that irritates me so much in lots of books. However, she is physically strong in ways that only dancers and athletes are because of the discipline necessary in the years-long training that makes them successful in their careers.
But Isela is also brave. So brave in the face of her new... TBC
December 4, 2021
Ugh! I hate it when I forget to review books right after reading them!
I read this sometime over the summer, I think. I stumbled across the author in one of my gazillion Facebook groups and her description of the book sounded interesting. There was some mention of whether her cover worked for the genre of paranormal romance. It's a beautiful cover and I love it, but it didn't quite look like something I'd normally read (a paranormal romance or UF romance). But I started reading it and was immediately hooked.
It's great, yall, and this is the kind of book that I'm constantly searching for, something that is fun and well-written and creative and just a good, interesting story. And bonus: it's not by someone who everyone knows already (but I think more people should know her!). I feel like I found a treasure and have this silly desire to say, "I read it first!" lol
ANYWAYS, Death's Dancer plot was unique--a ballerina type of dancer who builds routines/movements to communicate with the gods. People hire these godsdancer when they want help from the gods, help with business deals, performance, magic, etc. Isela is the best, and she's hired by the region's necromancer to help him figure out who's murdering other necromancers.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a story about a necromancer. At least, I haven’t read one that I’ve liked. But Azriel… Um, he’s yummy. He’s powerful. He’s very much into the dancer.
“I have seen mermaids perch on rocks to sun themselves, combing the lengths of their hair like so and singing love songs,” he said. “They drive sailors into the sea, mad with desire.”
“Lucky for you, I can’t sing.” She breathed.
“You don’t need to,” he said, bracing his hands on either side of her hips and leaning in to brush her ear with his mouth. “Whisper my name and I’d leap.”
I mean, woah. Hot!
And Isela is great too. One of my favorite lines of hers, when she’s running from the bull-like demon, is:
“Toro yourself, motherfucker.” Isela slammed the car in reverse and hit the gas.
Highly, highly recommend! And when you read it and love it, let me know! I love hooking people on new authors/books. :-)
I read this sometime over the summer, I think. I stumbled across the author in one of my gazillion Facebook groups and her description of the book sounded interesting. There was some mention of whether her cover worked for the genre of paranormal romance. It's a beautiful cover and I love it, but it didn't quite look like something I'd normally read (a paranormal romance or UF romance). But I started reading it and was immediately hooked.
It's great, yall, and this is the kind of book that I'm constantly searching for, something that is fun and well-written and creative and just a good, interesting story. And bonus: it's not by someone who everyone knows already (but I think more people should know her!). I feel like I found a treasure and have this silly desire to say, "I read it first!" lol
ANYWAYS, Death's Dancer plot was unique--a ballerina type of dancer who builds routines/movements to communicate with the gods. People hire these godsdancer when they want help from the gods, help with business deals, performance, magic, etc. Isela is the best, and she's hired by the region's necromancer to help him figure out who's murdering other necromancers.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a story about a necromancer. At least, I haven’t read one that I’ve liked. But Azriel… Um, he’s yummy. He’s powerful. He’s very much into the dancer.
“I have seen mermaids perch on rocks to sun themselves, combing the lengths of their hair like so and singing love songs,” he said. “They drive sailors into the sea, mad with desire.”
“Lucky for you, I can’t sing.” She breathed.
“You don’t need to,” he said, bracing his hands on either side of her hips and leaning in to brush her ear with his mouth. “Whisper my name and I’d leap.”
I mean, woah. Hot!
And Isela is great too. One of my favorite lines of hers, when she’s running from the bull-like demon, is:
“Toro yourself, motherfucker.” Isela slammed the car in reverse and hit the gas.
Highly, highly recommend! And when you read it and love it, let me know! I love hooking people on new authors/books. :-)
May 30, 2019
I was contacted by the author after responding to a tweet about authors of color with diverse characters and offered a copy of the book in exchange for a review. I graciously accepted and then the book sat on my Kindle for entirely too long. My apologies to the author for taking so long.
Death's Dancer is set in Prague which was the first rarity for this book. This is probably the first and only book I've ever read set there. Second, the premise was unique. Necromancers have saved the world after a godswar. Isela Vogel is a godsdancer. Her dancing brings about the power of the gods to assist her patrons in number of ways.
Isela is hired by a necromancer to help find a murderer. Shrouded in secrecy, she accepts the job without fully realizing what she's signing up for much to the dismay of everyone she knows, including her family. This is where the book went a little off kilter for me. Rather than spoil it for anyone reading this, I will say that the surprises with the Vogel clan threw me for a loop and I'm still on the fence as to whether or not it made sense to me as a plot point. It wasn't bad by any means, it just distracted me from the main story of the hunt for a killer.
I found the book a little slow in the pacing but not boring. The author did a great job with world and character building and threw several surprises in to the plot that made me want to keep reading. I kind of want Kyle to have his own story but I digress. In any case, I look forward to reading more about Isela and finding out what happens next, especially after the preview of the second book!
Many thanks to Jasmine Silvera and NetGalley for a copy of the book. I hope to see more from you in the future!
Death's Dancer is set in Prague which was the first rarity for this book. This is probably the first and only book I've ever read set there. Second, the premise was unique. Necromancers have saved the world after a godswar. Isela Vogel is a godsdancer. Her dancing brings about the power of the gods to assist her patrons in number of ways.
Isela is hired by a necromancer to help find a murderer. Shrouded in secrecy, she accepts the job without fully realizing what she's signing up for much to the dismay of everyone she knows, including her family. This is where the book went a little off kilter for me. Rather than spoil it for anyone reading this, I will say that the surprises with the Vogel clan threw me for a loop and I'm still on the fence as to whether or not it made sense to me as a plot point. It wasn't bad by any means, it just distracted me from the main story of the hunt for a killer.
I found the book a little slow in the pacing but not boring. The author did a great job with world and character building and threw several surprises in to the plot that made me want to keep reading. I kind of want Kyle to have his own story but I digress. In any case, I look forward to reading more about Isela and finding out what happens next, especially after the preview of the second book!
Many thanks to Jasmine Silvera and NetGalley for a copy of the book. I hope to see more from you in the future!
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