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City of Magic #1
Shrill Dusk
Charley is a cleaner by day and a professional gambler by night. She might be haunted by her tragic past but she's never thought of herself as anything or anyone special. Until, that is, things start to go terribly wrong all across the city of Manchester. Between plagues of rats, firestorms and the gleaming blue eyes of a sexy Scottish werewolf, she might just have landed herself in the middle of a magical apocalypse. She might also be the only person who has the ability to bring order to an utterly chaotic new world.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
June 8, 2019
Shrill Disk by Helen Harper and narrated by Ruth Urquhart is a story about magic and how magic and a magical object helped take over a city! The magic transformed people into all types of creatures! There are plenty of side stories going on too. This is the story of Charlie as she is right in the middle of this magical mayhem! Great magical fun and disasters!
Narration was excellent!
Narration was excellent!
March 3, 2020
Shrill Dusk is book one in the City of Magic by Helen Harper.
I’m not sure if I missed a book or series before this one; because when we start the story we are following Charley who seems to be a side character - while the main characters are in the back ground fighting to stop the apocalypse.
I liked Charley to a point. She kept her positivity and faith in the essential goodness of man when everything was going to shit, but she was also incredibly naive. Charley isn’t sure what the heck is happening and rolls with it, but at times I kept rolling my eyes at her; because she wants to help everybody, but you can’t help everybody and it’s all going to come crashing down around her eventually.
There’s a lot going on in Shrill Dusk. We get a lot of unnecessary info-dumping, self-sacrificial behavior and self-righteousness from the character(s). Theirs a lot of characters introduced and so it was a bit overwhelming. The story is fast-paced and the plot doesn’t fell fully flushed out or cohesive, yet, which left me feeling confused by the end.
Their might be a possible romance, but it’s an odd set up and really nothing happens in Shrill Dusk. Maybe we will get more in the next book.
Shrill Dusk had good potential, but in the end, it just turned out alright.
Rated: 3 Stars
I’m not sure if I missed a book or series before this one; because when we start the story we are following Charley who seems to be a side character - while the main characters are in the back ground fighting to stop the apocalypse.
I liked Charley to a point. She kept her positivity and faith in the essential goodness of man when everything was going to shit, but she was also incredibly naive. Charley isn’t sure what the heck is happening and rolls with it, but at times I kept rolling my eyes at her; because she wants to help everybody, but you can’t help everybody and it’s all going to come crashing down around her eventually.
There’s a lot going on in Shrill Dusk. We get a lot of unnecessary info-dumping, self-sacrificial behavior and self-righteousness from the character(s). Theirs a lot of characters introduced and so it was a bit overwhelming. The story is fast-paced and the plot doesn’t fell fully flushed out or cohesive, yet, which left me feeling confused by the end.
Their might be a possible romance, but it’s an odd set up and really nothing happens in Shrill Dusk. Maybe we will get more in the next book.
Shrill Dusk had good potential, but in the end, it just turned out alright.
Rated: 3 Stars
November 26, 2020
This is the first in a series, but there's a prior series that overlaps it a bit. And normally, I'd recommend reading that one first because the knowledge gap, while not huge, is definitely noticeable. But I really disliked what bit I read of it so I'd actually recommend just dealing with the gap and starting here. Seriously.
While the spill-over hurts this one a bit, the biggest pain is Charley's persistent and deliberate naiveté. Not that I didn't like her, because I did. She's capable and not stupid and I liked that she could plan ahead and make things work. And I liked her loyalty to her friends and willingness to sacrifice for others.
But she's literally only alive past the first hints of bad things happening because the author made her so powerful, magically. Her constant open invite for everyone to join her little band of misfits, regardless of their past or danger to others, was admirable. In the abstract. But I'm afraid I agree far more strongly with the much more realistic Monroe who is more skeptical and more willing to wonder if that vampire is more likely to eat your friends than live in peace and harmony with everyone else. It's an interesting concept when you contrast it their different approaches to the psychopath setting himself up to become the Lord of Manchester using violence and fear and intimidation.
It was interesting to me to see play out the human yearning for the benevolent ruler and Harper's attempt to turn it on its head. Monroe would make a great ruler and he knows it. He doesn't want to lead but he's responsible, powerful, and knows exactly what they need to do to survive so he's willing to take up the mantle of leadership to provide safety in uncertainty. And here's Charley providing the opposite. She invites everyone in and refuses to dictate what they can or should do. She issues invitations and drafts plans that others follow, but only because they think those are good ideas. But Charley herself makes no demands or even expectations. And her plan is no doubt more attractive as a result. Monroe insists that there will be no safety in that circumstance but who knows? Thing is that he'd be right. If. If Harper hadn't already made Charley the most powerful being in the zone. She doesn't actually need her friends at any point. She uses them because she can craft a path to defeat the psychopath that is more complete with their help. But she never needed them. She could have, at any time, walked in and taken the bad guy out and left with whatever she wanted to take from him. It'd take some planning because Mr. Psychopath wasn't an idiot and had guns. But he was at her mercy at every moment of their interactions and he only survived past his first word because she let him and had a better idea for how to defeat him with more beneficial long-term results.
So the background doesn't really function on the level I think Harper was going for—where Charley's way is obviously superior on its own merits. It's superior, I think, but only because Charley is the baddest hombre in the barrio and she provides its heart. And truth be told, I like thinking about this kind of thing so this story causing me to pick it apart a bit is more win than loss.
So all that wasn't really a gripe because I liked the story. I quite enjoyed Charley and her interaction with Monroe were fun. I loved seeing them come to trust each other and to work out how to work together. And they made some wild and whacky friends and I like seeing these misfits working out how to support and help one another, too. And I liked how they ended up with a détente that fit their characters and setup interesting dynamics for a series going forward.
So this ends up being a solid four stars. But if you want more realism or get tired of Charley's deliberate naiveté, you may have a harder time.
A note about Chaste: While Monroe is attractive as all get-out and he and Charley develop enough understanding to work together and are obviously into each other, there's literally no opportunity for more to develop. So this was very chaste.
While the spill-over hurts this one a bit, the biggest pain is Charley's persistent and deliberate naiveté. Not that I didn't like her, because I did. She's capable and not stupid and I liked that she could plan ahead and make things work. And I liked her loyalty to her friends and willingness to sacrifice for others.
But she's literally only alive past the first hints of bad things happening because the author made her so powerful, magically. Her constant open invite for everyone to join her little band of misfits, regardless of their past or danger to others, was admirable. In the abstract. But I'm afraid I agree far more strongly with the much more realistic Monroe who is more skeptical and more willing to wonder if that vampire is more likely to eat your friends than live in peace and harmony with everyone else. It's an interesting concept when you contrast it their different approaches to the psychopath setting himself up to become the Lord of Manchester using violence and fear and intimidation.
It was interesting to me to see play out the human yearning for the benevolent ruler and Harper's attempt to turn it on its head. Monroe would make a great ruler and he knows it. He doesn't want to lead but he's responsible, powerful, and knows exactly what they need to do to survive so he's willing to take up the mantle of leadership to provide safety in uncertainty. And here's Charley providing the opposite. She invites everyone in and refuses to dictate what they can or should do. She issues invitations and drafts plans that others follow, but only because they think those are good ideas. But Charley herself makes no demands or even expectations. And her plan is no doubt more attractive as a result. Monroe insists that there will be no safety in that circumstance but who knows? Thing is that he'd be right. If. If Harper hadn't already made Charley the most powerful being in the zone. She doesn't actually need her friends at any point. She uses them because she can craft a path to defeat the psychopath that is more complete with their help. But she never needed them. She could have, at any time, walked in and taken the bad guy out and left with whatever she wanted to take from him. It'd take some planning because Mr. Psychopath wasn't an idiot and had guns. But he was at her mercy at every moment of their interactions and he only survived past his first word because she let him and had a better idea for how to defeat him with more beneficial long-term results.
So the background doesn't really function on the level I think Harper was going for—where Charley's way is obviously superior on its own merits. It's superior, I think, but only because Charley is the baddest hombre in the barrio and she provides its heart. And truth be told, I like thinking about this kind of thing so this story causing me to pick it apart a bit is more win than loss.
So all that wasn't really a gripe because I liked the story. I quite enjoyed Charley and her interaction with Monroe were fun. I loved seeing them come to trust each other and to work out how to work together. And they made some wild and whacky friends and I like seeing these misfits working out how to support and help one another, too. And I liked how they ended up with a détente that fit their characters and setup interesting dynamics for a series going forward.
So this ends up being a solid four stars. But if you want more realism or get tired of Charley's deliberate naiveté, you may have a harder time.
A note about Chaste: While Monroe is attractive as all get-out and he and Charley develop enough understanding to work together and are obviously into each other, there's literally no opportunity for more to develop. So this was very chaste.
January 3, 2019
Charley was your average human until an unusual encounter in the ladies’ room that will transform her life forever. Charley finds herself magically enhanced and her home in Manchester has become a magically infused post-apocalyptic town that is cut off from the rest of the world.
Choosing to stay in Manchester, Charley finds herself teaming up with a reluctant werewolf, an actress vampire and some everyday humans who have decided to stay in “their city”.
Fun, fast and intriguing, Harper world building and characters will have the reader coming back for more.
I received this ARC copy of Shrill Dusk from Helen Harper. This is my honest and voluntary view. Shrill Dusk is set for publication Jan. 4, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Helen Harper
Series: City of Magic
Sequence in Series: 1
Print Length: 254 pages
Publication Date: January 4, 2019
ASIN: B07LH65ZCK
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shrill-Dusk-Ci...
Want more check us out on Tome Tender Book Blog or on Facebook
Choosing to stay in Manchester, Charley finds herself teaming up with a reluctant werewolf, an actress vampire and some everyday humans who have decided to stay in “their city”.
Fun, fast and intriguing, Harper world building and characters will have the reader coming back for more.
I received this ARC copy of Shrill Dusk from Helen Harper. This is my honest and voluntary view. Shrill Dusk is set for publication Jan. 4, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Helen Harper
Series: City of Magic
Sequence in Series: 1
Print Length: 254 pages
Publication Date: January 4, 2019
ASIN: B07LH65ZCK
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shrill-Dusk-Ci...
Want more check us out on Tome Tender Book Blog or on Facebook
May 12, 2019
Rating: 5 stars
This story takes place in Manchester, one of my favorite cities, so I admit, I am predisposed towards the novel. The plot is sorta-kinda connected to the universe of Box of Frogs aka Fracture Fairy series. The difference is that I want to continue reading this series. I truly like Charlie/Charlotte, the MC, and the insane plot she is pressed into with all of the crazies.
All in all, this was an AbFab beginning darling. Tra-la-la!
On for more!
This story takes place in Manchester, one of my favorite cities, so I admit, I am predisposed towards the novel. The plot is sorta-kinda connected to the universe of Box of Frogs aka Fracture Fairy series. The difference is that I want to continue reading this series. I truly like Charlie/Charlotte, the MC, and the insane plot she is pressed into with all of the crazies.
All in all, this was an AbFab beginning darling. Tra-la-la!
On for more!
July 6, 2019
This book had good potential but in the end, it just turned out alright for me...
Lots of unnecessary info-dumping, lots of self-sacrifical behaviour and self-righteousness from the main character(s), lots of eye-rolling moments.
But, it was an easy read and I did like the plot and the general idea.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2018
Thank you NetGalley and Helen Harper for this arc.
I thought this was a short and easy read... the pace was fast without being breathtaking. A good book for the young adult reader (even though it isn't being marketed as such... a couple of kisses only, reasonably clean language). Ambitious world building with some interesting paranormal elements. I thought the characters were the weakest part of the book. By the end of it, I was so irritated with Charley's naivety I was ready to slap some sense into her. That's okay, I'm not a young adult.
2.5 stars rounded up
I thought this was a short and easy read... the pace was fast without being breathtaking. A good book for the young adult reader (even though it isn't being marketed as such... a couple of kisses only, reasonably clean language). Ambitious world building with some interesting paranormal elements. I thought the characters were the weakest part of the book. By the end of it, I was so irritated with Charley's naivety I was ready to slap some sense into her. That's okay, I'm not a young adult.
2.5 stars rounded up
d-n-f
January 23, 2019I can't believe I'm DNFing at 61% but here we are. This girl is outrageously self-sacrificing to the point that she's downright fucking stupid. Offensively stupid! She's like one of those people that rescues dozens of stray cats and lets them live in their house and buys them all kinds of cat towers and toys and shit while she has a horrible cat allergy.
Oh, and the hero is a douchebag.
I find Helen Harper's writing works very well for me, I can really slip into her books and time flies by. And I like her plots... but I kinda hate her main characters?
Oh, and the hero is a douchebag.
I find Helen Harper's writing works very well for me, I can really slip into her books and time flies by. And I like her plots... but I kinda hate her main characters?
January 11, 2019
I don't know why, but the first half of this book reads like Charley is the side character and there's some other book going on where the main characters are fighting to stop the apocalypse, and then here's this side character going on about her side character/NPC business while the main characters do their apocalypse-stopping main character thing. Is there another series that runs parallel to this? Like there are some weird crossover episodes when the TV shows Buffy and Angel were running concurrently? Because I feel like that would have made sense.
It got much better in the second half, where it felt like Charley was actually (finally!) the main character of her own story. I liked Charley for the most part, and while I like that she retains her positivity and faith in the essential goodness of man, I also think she is incredibly naive for a character who is also at times extremely jaded. Still, she's bad ass, so I'll go with it. The world building is fun and the story is fast-paced, but there's not always a lot of there, and the world-building and plot don't feel fully fleshed-out and cohesive... Which is probably why I was left feeling so much like this was the story of a side-character and that there much be a "main book" about the "main characters" (and thus some world building and plot lines that are better fleshed out and that explain more) out there in the universe somewhere.
Still, Charley isn't sure what the heck is happening most of the time, she's just forced to roll with it, so I suppose it's just an immersive experience for the reader to also need to roll with it? It was still an enjoyable read with some really creative elements, I just wish it had been a little more cohesive.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
*An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It got much better in the second half, where it felt like Charley was actually (finally!) the main character of her own story. I liked Charley for the most part, and while I like that she retains her positivity and faith in the essential goodness of man, I also think she is incredibly naive for a character who is also at times extremely jaded. Still, she's bad ass, so I'll go with it. The world building is fun and the story is fast-paced, but there's not always a lot of there, and the world-building and plot don't feel fully fleshed-out and cohesive... Which is probably why I was left feeling so much like this was the story of a side-character and that there much be a "main book" about the "main characters" (and thus some world building and plot lines that are better fleshed out and that explain more) out there in the universe somewhere.
Still, Charley isn't sure what the heck is happening most of the time, she's just forced to roll with it, so I suppose it's just an immersive experience for the reader to also need to roll with it? It was still an enjoyable read with some really creative elements, I just wish it had been a little more cohesive.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
*An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 10, 2019DNF
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I had had a good time with another of the author’s novels and I was really curious to discover something else about her. I must say that the synopsis and the cover really made me want to discover it!
Charley is haunted by a tragic event of her youth, but today she is a housekeeper and poker addict, and she lives a little on the margins of society. Yet a magical apocalypse will change all that and she will find herself dealing with things she thought were impossible.
As I said, I was curious to discover this novel but I must say that I am disappointed. After trying several times to get back into the story, I preferred to stop at 40%. It’s not that it’s bad in itself, because the author’s style and some ideas are nice, but the story of the apocalypse is a bit absurd for me in relation to what’s going on and I admit that I was a little doubtful about the pink elephant. There are a lot of characters and unfortunately I didn’t really care about them, and I found the heroine a little too easy and naïve actually.
So no, it’s not bad, but it wasn’t for me either.
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I had had a good time with another of the author’s novels and I was really curious to discover something else about her. I must say that the synopsis and the cover really made me want to discover it!
Charley is haunted by a tragic event of her youth, but today she is a housekeeper and poker addict, and she lives a little on the margins of society. Yet a magical apocalypse will change all that and she will find herself dealing with things she thought were impossible.
As I said, I was curious to discover this novel but I must say that I am disappointed. After trying several times to get back into the story, I preferred to stop at 40%. It’s not that it’s bad in itself, because the author’s style and some ideas are nice, but the story of the apocalypse is a bit absurd for me in relation to what’s going on and I admit that I was a little doubtful about the pink elephant. There are a lot of characters and unfortunately I didn’t really care about them, and I found the heroine a little too easy and naïve actually.
So no, it’s not bad, but it wasn’t for me either.
January 8, 2019
This was my first book by Ms. Helen Harper and while I didn't exactly love it I didn't hate it either. It simply didn't wow me. It had a very interesting beginning, a messy, very messy middle and an ok ending. That messy middle kept losing my interest and I had to force myself to keep reading it instead of the book pulling me in. If the book was a little longer I'd probably give up and not finish it. There were also so many secondary characters popping up and deciding to live in Charley’s house I sometimes lost track who is who. Most seemed interesting but with so many we never get a real chance to learn more about them.
It pains me to give a book with so much potential this rating, but I didn’t really enjoy it. I didn’t necessarily hate it, but I also had to push myself to finish it. It became more of a chore than an entertainment, which is frankly quite disappointing. Let's leave it at that.
***I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
It pains me to give a book with so much potential this rating, but I didn’t really enjoy it. I didn’t necessarily hate it, but I also had to push myself to finish it. It became more of a chore than an entertainment, which is frankly quite disappointing. Let's leave it at that.
***I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
dnf
January 16, 2019I am DNFing this book at 36%. This is NOT because I hated it, it was...okay. However, I made a resolution that for 2019 I would stop reading "just okay" books. I know if I had continued to read I would have given this 3 stars but I am after 3.5 star reads and above only this year, unfortunately tat may mean I give a lot of DNFs along the way.
However, I do recommend you try Harper's A Lazy Girl's Guide to Magic series, I read it last year and adored it.
However, I do recommend you try Harper's A Lazy Girl's Guide to Magic series, I read it last year and adored it.
January 23, 2019
*I received a copy of this through NetGalley and the author Helen Harper in exchange for an honest review.*
This is one of those books where I really just didn't know how to rate it. I almost want to really break everything down and rate everything individually because there were some aspects of this book that were really enjoyable for me, and at the same time I had major issues with the story line which I will explain a little more in depth in a minute. Let me start with the authors note at the beginning of the book:
Some of the events in Shrill Dusk overlap the events in Skulk of Foxes, the final book in the
Fractured Faery series, however both books can be read separately.
So after reading this, despite my OCD and not liking ever feeling like I've been pushed off in the middle of a story, I didn't go back and binge the previous series. I agree that this book can be read separately, because though they are in the same world and I could see events that may or may not be "overlapping," Charley's, our FMC, story does seem like a different tale... That being said the first half of the book was world building, and detailing the "overlapping" events. This in itself was... confusing the way it played out. At least for me. There is just a whole lot of the book describing and detailing events that really have nothing to do with Charley. Yes during that time we are getting to know Charley and her crew of misfits as well as progression past where I would assume the other book leaves off but at the same time I think the confusion would have all been solved by a synopsis of events or even a flashback before/after rather than taking such a long time to overlap the events. I also reserve the right to change my opinion if I ever go back and read the starter series lol. I just felt, at this point not having read the first series, that most of the story wasn't Charley's. Also, I'm honestly not sure where this is going as the ending has really thrown me. We don't seem to have an arch enemy or a quest of any kind... I can see where more stories from this world could continue to be entertaining but I wasn't left with a need "to find out" anything... if that makes sense.
World building wise I had no trouble falling into this book. So I would rate that 3+ stars as that is not always the case lol. I also really liked Charley's character and felt that she had a wonderful sarcastic, funny, go get it attitude, as well as some intense irony in that she has this loyal and overwhelming need to do the right thing even with her career as a professional gambler. I also really like where the story started to head in the second half with Charley learning about magic and magical beings as well as learning to set her own limits and not to always depend on learning others limits. I felt like this was an incredibly insightful little ditty:
"the person with knowledge--has already decided what the limitations of their abilities are.
They don't seek to test them or go beyond them."
In this book our FMC Charley, gambler and cleaner extraordinaire, gets an all out smack in the face introduction to the supernatural world along with all the citizens of Manchester, during some magic based apocalyptic events. As these events unfold, Charley realizes that both she and her house mate have some inner supernatural. As the government closes down and quarantines Manchester, Charley and her crew fight to survive and help all the supes and humans that stay behind.
All in all I really think this has some promise, but in all honesty I know, that in order to continue I'd have to start at the beginning. I also recommend that if you have OCD issues like me, and if your interested in pursuing this story you should also start there.
This is one of those books where I really just didn't know how to rate it. I almost want to really break everything down and rate everything individually because there were some aspects of this book that were really enjoyable for me, and at the same time I had major issues with the story line which I will explain a little more in depth in a minute. Let me start with the authors note at the beginning of the book:
Some of the events in Shrill Dusk overlap the events in Skulk of Foxes, the final book in the
Fractured Faery series, however both books can be read separately.
So after reading this, despite my OCD and not liking ever feeling like I've been pushed off in the middle of a story, I didn't go back and binge the previous series. I agree that this book can be read separately, because though they are in the same world and I could see events that may or may not be "overlapping," Charley's, our FMC, story does seem like a different tale... That being said the first half of the book was world building, and detailing the "overlapping" events. This in itself was... confusing the way it played out. At least for me. There is just a whole lot of the book describing and detailing events that really have nothing to do with Charley. Yes during that time we are getting to know Charley and her crew of misfits as well as progression past where I would assume the other book leaves off but at the same time I think the confusion would have all been solved by a synopsis of events or even a flashback before/after rather than taking such a long time to overlap the events. I also reserve the right to change my opinion if I ever go back and read the starter series lol. I just felt, at this point not having read the first series, that most of the story wasn't Charley's. Also, I'm honestly not sure where this is going as the ending has really thrown me. We don't seem to have an arch enemy or a quest of any kind... I can see where more stories from this world could continue to be entertaining but I wasn't left with a need "to find out" anything... if that makes sense.
World building wise I had no trouble falling into this book. So I would rate that 3+ stars as that is not always the case lol. I also really liked Charley's character and felt that she had a wonderful sarcastic, funny, go get it attitude, as well as some intense irony in that she has this loyal and overwhelming need to do the right thing even with her career as a professional gambler. I also really like where the story started to head in the second half with Charley learning about magic and magical beings as well as learning to set her own limits and not to always depend on learning others limits. I felt like this was an incredibly insightful little ditty:
"the person with knowledge--has already decided what the limitations of their abilities are.
They don't seek to test them or go beyond them."
In this book our FMC Charley, gambler and cleaner extraordinaire, gets an all out smack in the face introduction to the supernatural world along with all the citizens of Manchester, during some magic based apocalyptic events. As these events unfold, Charley realizes that both she and her house mate have some inner supernatural. As the government closes down and quarantines Manchester, Charley and her crew fight to survive and help all the supes and humans that stay behind.
All in all I really think this has some promise, but in all honesty I know, that in order to continue I'd have to start at the beginning. I also recommend that if you have OCD issues like me, and if your interested in pursuing this story you should also start there.
August 16, 2022
3.5/5.0
I actually liked this story quite a bit. Charley was just too Pollyanna for even me, though. I usually prefer my heroines optimistic and determined to do good and make things better - BUT…. This one flies WAY over the top! It was super interesting to see the opposite points of view between Charlie’s idealism and Monroe’s realism, as it counter balances and gives readers both very understandable options. However, with Charlie, even when the people are intentionally and determinedly evil, she invites them to stay with her, hoping they will miraculously change and be happy and do good… Even when Monroe wanted to just have them leave the city..*sigh* Seriously? There is a point where it ceases to be even remotely believable.
Still, I would like to see where the overall plot leads so I’m off to try the next in the trilogy!
I actually liked this story quite a bit. Charley was just too Pollyanna for even me, though. I usually prefer my heroines optimistic and determined to do good and make things better - BUT…. This one flies WAY over the top! It was super interesting to see the opposite points of view between Charlie’s idealism and Monroe’s realism, as it counter balances and gives readers both very understandable options. However, with Charlie, even when the people are intentionally and determinedly evil, she invites them to stay with her, hoping they will miraculously change and be happy and do good… Even when Monroe wanted to just have them leave the city..*sigh* Seriously? There is a point where it ceases to be even remotely believable.
Still, I would like to see where the overall plot leads so I’m off to try the next in the trilogy!
October 2, 2022
I should have learned by now that Helen Harper isn't quite for me, but she keep popping up on my ''recommended'' lists, and I have enjoyed one book by her before, so I keep hoping.
I know Harper has a dedicated fan base, which I completely understand. She has some interesting stories to tell, but they aren't for me. It feels a little like ''once you've read one Harper book, you've read them all'' (which isn't necessarily a bad thing!) but that doesn't work for me. Especially considering a lot of her work leans on the toxic-guy romance or miscommunication-trope, which I'm not a big fan of at all.
So, yeah. This book really wasn't for me, and I'm going to try to remember that Harper isn't for me in the future.
I know Harper has a dedicated fan base, which I completely understand. She has some interesting stories to tell, but they aren't for me. It feels a little like ''once you've read one Harper book, you've read them all'' (which isn't necessarily a bad thing!) but that doesn't work for me. Especially considering a lot of her work leans on the toxic-guy romance or miscommunication-trope, which I'm not a big fan of at all.
So, yeah. This book really wasn't for me, and I'm going to try to remember that Harper isn't for me in the future.
May 19, 2019
DNF 42%
I’m not a fan of bleeding hearts.
I’m not a fan of bleeding hearts.
April 4, 2019
Apocalyptic setting. Although I think Helen Harper writes well, this particular series isn’t my cuppa tea.
January 14, 2019
Recieved an ARC for an honest review.
There were so many things wrong with this book I don't even know where to start. The book started of with a sophisticated, almost dark aura which quickly disintegrated into complete amateur middle grade writing.
The protagonist Charley's personality was so choppy I didn't understand why she was doing what she was doing half the time. In one scene she's so cynical and in the next she's the first one to try and comfort a random person. She's one of those completely righteous characters that have to save everyone, that live for other people. But that trait does not fit in with the rest of her personality. It felt like the author just picked out what traits she wants for her character but didn't check if they harmonised with each other.
Secondly, the story did not go with the writing. I would have expected a more descriptive and advanced writing style for a book that relied heavily on the politics between the different creature types. That's another thing I wanted to talk about; did the author just have a list of different types of creatures to tick off? There were Vampires, Werewolves, Faeries, Shapeshifters, Magic users etc. It just seemed like a bit much especially when they all didn't have a role.
All in all, I did not like this book, nor would I recommend it to anyone. The only thing that held me back from giving it one star was the first two chapters of the book.
[Bookstagram]
There were so many things wrong with this book I don't even know where to start. The book started of with a sophisticated, almost dark aura which quickly disintegrated into complete amateur middle grade writing.
The protagonist Charley's personality was so choppy I didn't understand why she was doing what she was doing half the time. In one scene she's so cynical and in the next she's the first one to try and comfort a random person. She's one of those completely righteous characters that have to save everyone, that live for other people. But that trait does not fit in with the rest of her personality. It felt like the author just picked out what traits she wants for her character but didn't check if they harmonised with each other.
Secondly, the story did not go with the writing. I would have expected a more descriptive and advanced writing style for a book that relied heavily on the politics between the different creature types. That's another thing I wanted to talk about; did the author just have a list of different types of creatures to tick off? There were Vampires, Werewolves, Faeries, Shapeshifters, Magic users etc. It just seemed like a bit much especially when they all didn't have a role.
All in all, I did not like this book, nor would I recommend it to anyone. The only thing that held me back from giving it one star was the first two chapters of the book.
[Bookstagram]
October 23, 2020
Charley is a bit of a lost soul, haunted by a tragic event from her past she seems to be living a bit of a half-life, cleaner by day and moderately successful gambler by night. What happened in her past has probably given her a bit of a saviour complex which compels her to help others, even at risk to herself. Currently she is trying to repay a local villain £10,000 on behalf of a friend.
Then the city of Manchester is hit by a series of odd and cataclysmic events, plagues of rats, firestorms, weird blue lights and somehow Charley is stuck slap bang in the middle, courtesy of a chance encounter with a fae. Manchester is now a no-go zone, contaminated by high levels of magic, hunting ground for werewolves, vampires, dragons et al.
Now Charley and the remaining inhabitants of Manchester must reclaim their city from the fae, but also from the undesirable element who see this as an ideal opportunity to break into the big times.
I liked this, as with most urban fantasy novels, Charley soon turns out to be a special snowflake, the big difference is that she has very small ambitions, she just wants to protect her small area of Manchester and her friends. She's proud of being a cleaner and she cares about others, even those that might not deserve it.
There's humour, romance, drama and tension. I will definitely be reading more in this series.
Then the city of Manchester is hit by a series of odd and cataclysmic events, plagues of rats, firestorms, weird blue lights and somehow Charley is stuck slap bang in the middle, courtesy of a chance encounter with a fae. Manchester is now a no-go zone, contaminated by high levels of magic, hunting ground for werewolves, vampires, dragons et al.
Now Charley and the remaining inhabitants of Manchester must reclaim their city from the fae, but also from the undesirable element who see this as an ideal opportunity to break into the big times.
I liked this, as with most urban fantasy novels, Charley soon turns out to be a special snowflake, the big difference is that she has very small ambitions, she just wants to protect her small area of Manchester and her friends. She's proud of being a cleaner and she cares about others, even those that might not deserve it.
There's humour, romance, drama and tension. I will definitely be reading more in this series.
December 30, 2018
I received this book as an ARC from the author, but this review is all my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which follows the aftermath of the events at the end of Skulk of Foxes (The Fractured Faery #3), but with a different protagonist this time in the form of Charley.
Charley is just a normal human in the city of Manchester that is now buzzing with magic. However, things change drastically for her when she finds her housemate has changed and two strangers appear on her doorstep to help! Unbeknown to Charley, during a chance meeting previously, one of these characters left something with Charley and this object sets Charley on a new path!
Manchester is now an apocalyptic zone and is being evacuated, but Charley and her small group of friends have decided to stay, especially when Charley sees what the magic residue has done to her beloved city. She has a constant desire to help others, not putting herself first, which sometimes leads her into more trouble than it's worth. Luckily for her, she has good back up!
I really enjoyed reading how the chaotic events involving Madrona affected the other citizens of Manchester and how they are dealing with the after effects. Looking forward to reading what happens next and how Charley develops even more. Will there be any more romance between her and Monroe? I would like to see it, but it won't be an easy relationship with these two head-strong characters.
Thanks to Helen for sending me a copy to read and review!
Charley is just a normal human in the city of Manchester that is now buzzing with magic. However, things change drastically for her when she finds her housemate has changed and two strangers appear on her doorstep to help! Unbeknown to Charley, during a chance meeting previously, one of these characters left something with Charley and this object sets Charley on a new path!
Manchester is now an apocalyptic zone and is being evacuated, but Charley and her small group of friends have decided to stay, especially when Charley sees what the magic residue has done to her beloved city. She has a constant desire to help others, not putting herself first, which sometimes leads her into more trouble than it's worth. Luckily for her, she has good back up!
I really enjoyed reading how the chaotic events involving Madrona affected the other citizens of Manchester and how they are dealing with the after effects. Looking forward to reading what happens next and how Charley develops even more. Will there be any more romance between her and Monroe? I would like to see it, but it won't be an easy relationship with these two head-strong characters.
Thanks to Helen for sending me a copy to read and review!
January 5, 2019
I first came across this author with her Blood Destiny series. That was a few years ago, when I came across this title on Netgalley the cover caught my attention first, then I noticed who wrote it. I was more than eager to reacquaint myself with this author.
Shrill Dusk falls into that grey area of not quite YA but not your typical NA either. Or should I just say it’s a cleaner NA than most on the market. Shrill Dusk is on the sweeter side of things than the steamy. No real content or language warnings that raised flags for me, it’s not a completely innocent Twilight, but it’s not Laurel K Hamilton either!!
Shrill Dusk is a very enjoyable story with an interesting world. This author remains true to form by developing interesting characters and creating a twist on ‘normal’ civilisation. The story is fast paced and a lot happens in a relatively short amount of time so you definitely don’t get bored!
The first in a series, Shrill Dusk has the potential to turn into an interesting exploration of this world and its characters. I’m looking forward to what happens next.
December 28, 2018
In the prologue protagonist Charley experiences a profound loss and 11 years later we see her still dealing with the aftermath.
The book starts when strange events are talking place in Manchester, UK, where Charley lives. It looks like the Apocalypse is near and in a short period of time she is confronted with faeries, werewolves, her roommate shifting etc. And she takes it all in stride!
I have read books by this author before (especially liked the Slouch Witch series!) but somehow this did not grab me as much. It was confusing with all the characters Charley interacts with in a short time span and I just did not get Charley. Even the tragic loss she suffered doesn’t make it believable how big her savior complex is. It became annoying I must admit.
*** I received an ARC but this is my honest review. ***
The book starts when strange events are talking place in Manchester, UK, where Charley lives. It looks like the Apocalypse is near and in a short period of time she is confronted with faeries, werewolves, her roommate shifting etc. And she takes it all in stride!
I have read books by this author before (especially liked the Slouch Witch series!) but somehow this did not grab me as much. It was confusing with all the characters Charley interacts with in a short time span and I just did not get Charley. Even the tragic loss she suffered doesn’t make it believable how big her savior complex is. It became annoying I must admit.
*** I received an ARC but this is my honest review. ***
December 30, 2018
I’ve read this author before and really enjoyed her. When I came across an opportunity to read this series starter by her, I jumped at the chance. As I found her other books to be, this one had great writing, interesting characters, and a fun plot. There were some crossover characters from another series, but as someone who hadn’t read the other series, I was in no way confused. In fact, I now want to read the other series to see what lead us to this point. This is the type of book I find to be an easy, fun, mostly light-hearted, and quick read; it’s something to spend an afternoon enjoying. Yes, I do admit Charley’s attitude got to me a little, but I hope she learns better soon. I’m anxious to see what’s coming next for Charley, Monroe, Lizzie, etc. I really do highly recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
February 1, 2019
I usually love Helen Harper, but somehow, this book felt awkwardly written. There are a lot of perspective problems, ie, you think you are seeing the scene from a certain point of view (from a 2nd floor balcony, or an intimate setting, or from a river bank) and then suddenly you see people on the ground floor, you are surrounded by a crowd, and the river bank turns into an underground canal. Things beg explanations - 2 newly introduced characters (Julie and Jodie) keep bickering and fighting. One is human one is a vampire. How do they know each other? Why do they fight? Why are they teaming up to bury werewolves? Why is mere contact with a magical object enough to turn the MC into ‘an enchantress’? Why did a werewolf and an elf team up?
So many whys - and not the type that need to be answered in subsequent books, no, questions that would need to be answered right now because they interfere with your comprehension of the scenes.
I’m a little baffled - it reads like a book a teenage Helen Harper would have written. It is much less mature and well-constructed than her usual books:o(
So many whys - and not the type that need to be answered in subsequent books, no, questions that would need to be answered right now because they interfere with your comprehension of the scenes.
I’m a little baffled - it reads like a book a teenage Helen Harper would have written. It is much less mature and well-constructed than her usual books:o(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2021
I find I couldn't get into this one as much as some of her other stories because there was SO. MUCH. SWEARING. I'm not even that sensitive to the language in stories, but this was like hearing a nonstop litany of foul language. It made for some ugly reading. Felt more like a slog than a guilty pleasure to read through it. I did enjoy its ending and may move into the next book, but if the language is just as filthy, I don't think I can make it through.
January 9, 2019
Well what can say - I am huge fan of Helen's but this book was ...better in expectation than on paper or should I mobi, lol.
There is really nothing wrong with this story, and I really enjoyed the leading lady Charley, who reminded me a bit of Bernadette in Big Bang (a pocket rocket).
But this didn't save the story, it was all just so insta .... everything just worked almost to perfectly ...all filled with love and roses, and just not for me.
There is really nothing wrong with this story, and I really enjoyed the leading lady Charley, who reminded me a bit of Bernadette in Big Bang (a pocket rocket).
But this didn't save the story, it was all just so insta .... everything just worked almost to perfectly ...all filled with love and roses, and just not for me.
March 20, 2019
A spin-off from the Manchester series, which I wasn't overenthusiastic about. But the tiresome heroine of the earlier series is gone, and Charlie is a welcome replacement. After a bit of pottering about in the early chapters, while we rehash the ending of the last volume of the earlier series, things get going steadily and build up to an everything but the kitchen sink conclusion. Short but fun.
May 12, 2020
Her life was normal with a job during the day while at night she was a gambler. Life is about to be turned upside down. She will meet a werewolf and a war is starting. Is she the only one who can stop it? How will she do it? Can she do it? See How she gets on
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2019
This is a fun dystopian style urban fantasy read filled with magic, humour, sarcasm, fab characters, old and new apparently and a great storyline! As this is a spin off from another series I will definitely have to go read them whilst waiting for book 2!
November 8, 2019
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