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Nightmarked #1
City of Storms
A tarot reader with a dangerous past. Two mortal enemies. And a conspiracy that could burn it all down.
In the perfect world of the Via Sancta, magical power flows through intricate tattoos on your skin. They promote harmony and suppress base urges like greed, lust, and anger.
But sometimes the marks invert—driving you mad.
Alexei Bryce hunts these deviants for the Church, secretly hoping to find the dark mage who turned his brother. The trail leads to Kasia Novak, a cartomancer who is more than she seems. The cards say they are fated to fall in love—if they can survive long enough.
Because now that same dark mage has infiltrated the city’s wards and is hunting Kasia.
Alexei and the nightmage called Malach fought on opposite sides of the bloody civil war years before. But despite the Church’s claim of victory, the conflict is far from over. And Alexei will discover that his faith’s triumph over the darkest recesses of the human soul is more fragile than he ever imagined.
In the perfect world of the Via Sancta, magical power flows through intricate tattoos on your skin. They promote harmony and suppress base urges like greed, lust, and anger.
But sometimes the marks invert—driving you mad.
Alexei Bryce hunts these deviants for the Church, secretly hoping to find the dark mage who turned his brother. The trail leads to Kasia Novak, a cartomancer who is more than she seems. The cards say they are fated to fall in love—if they can survive long enough.
Because now that same dark mage has infiltrated the city’s wards and is hunting Kasia.
Alexei and the nightmage called Malach fought on opposite sides of the bloody civil war years before. But despite the Church’s claim of victory, the conflict is far from over. And Alexei will discover that his faith’s triumph over the darkest recesses of the human soul is more fragile than he ever imagined.
506 pages, ebook
First published August 23, 2021
1674 people are currently reading
6417 people want to read
About the author
Kat Ross
60 books806 followersKat Ross is an award-winning and bestselling fantasy author whose series range from the Persian-inspired Fourth Element to the cozy Ravencroft Hall books. She lives in Connecticut with her son and a gang (clowder?) of anarchist cats. When she’s not writing, you can find Kat wandering in the woods or poring over maps in the cartography turret. For more info, check out her website: www.katrossbooks.com
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March 31, 2025This book is free on Amazon (Canada) for now. 🙂
March 17, 2022
At first, I thought that this book was going to be an info-dump that would make my head hurt and possibly not finish it.
I was completely wrong.
Aside from needing a dictionary for parts, this book is gold.
I don’t say that lightly. I was surprised by how deep and well built this world was. How interesting the characters were and how I didn’t really know who to root for and kind of still don’t.
I love this world, the way magic is used or in this case ley and the multiple layers of conflict that just pull you in…repeatedly.
If you like Acotar, though in a more modern setting, this book is for you.
Give this book a chance and you won’t regret it.
I was completely wrong.
Aside from needing a dictionary for parts, this book is gold.
I don’t say that lightly. I was surprised by how deep and well built this world was. How interesting the characters were and how I didn’t really know who to root for and kind of still don’t.
I love this world, the way magic is used or in this case ley and the multiple layers of conflict that just pull you in…repeatedly.
If you like Acotar, though in a more modern setting, this book is for you.
Give this book a chance and you won’t regret it.
December 14, 2022
City of Storms (Nightmarked, #1) ♦ Kat Ross | Review
A tarot reader who is hiding a sinister secret. A priest whose damaged heart prevents him from falling asleep. A fallen angel determined to destroy them both.
City of Storms by Kat Ross captured me whole.
When I first started reading City of Storms, I had some hiccups with the story. Because there was a lot of information presented initially that was confusing. But after reading a few pages, and with the aid of the glossary, a mystical world brimming with magic became clear to me.
Opinion
The setting is incredibly immersive and dark, and the characters are quite well-developed and very interesting. Kat Ross does a brilliant job of capturing the reader in a world that is both very different from our own and appears to be so very similar to it. Furthermore, her perspective on magic and how everything is interconnected is magnificent.
City of Storms is the first installment of a quadrology called Nightmarked. The story comes around with a lot of unexpected twists, which drew me deeper and deeper into the plot. I was very intrigued by the whole of it. The world building and the three main characters excited me, that I could hardly put my Kindle down.
Fra Alexei Bryce reacts to the Markhounds (special bred dogs) alarm about someone turning insane and Kasia Novak, a cardomancer (tarot reader), who ran for her life because of the mad one. That’s how Ross threw me into the action as the novel begins. Although the rapid-fire introduction of new vocabulary and terms initially makes reading difficult due to the absence of prior context, it was a strong and enthralling beginning. Given that the world building seems to draw extensively from both Latin and the Catholic Church, some knowledge with both would come handy. But as I stated already, the glossary helps a lot as well.
The pace of the story was perfect. I never felt like I had to rush through the pages to keep up. Also, there weren’t any boring sections that contained too many explanations or described unimportant dialogues and actions.
City of Storms is really well written, and I didn’t even lose touch with the characters. They did take a little time before I took a liking to them, including the antihero.
Conclusion
★★★★★
I really did enjoy reading City of Storms, and I am really excited to dive right into the next installment. I can’t really say why I am excited, because I am not willing to leave any spoilers. But I can recommend this book for readers who enjoy Dark Fantasy paired with Mystery, Magic and Paranormal.
I received an advance review copy for free at BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
A tarot reader who is hiding a sinister secret. A priest whose damaged heart prevents him from falling asleep. A fallen angel determined to destroy them both.
City of Storms by Kat Ross captured me whole.
When I first started reading City of Storms, I had some hiccups with the story. Because there was a lot of information presented initially that was confusing. But after reading a few pages, and with the aid of the glossary, a mystical world brimming with magic became clear to me.
Opinion
The setting is incredibly immersive and dark, and the characters are quite well-developed and very interesting. Kat Ross does a brilliant job of capturing the reader in a world that is both very different from our own and appears to be so very similar to it. Furthermore, her perspective on magic and how everything is interconnected is magnificent.
City of Storms is the first installment of a quadrology called Nightmarked. The story comes around with a lot of unexpected twists, which drew me deeper and deeper into the plot. I was very intrigued by the whole of it. The world building and the three main characters excited me, that I could hardly put my Kindle down.
Fra Alexei Bryce reacts to the Markhounds (special bred dogs) alarm about someone turning insane and Kasia Novak, a cardomancer (tarot reader), who ran for her life because of the mad one. That’s how Ross threw me into the action as the novel begins. Although the rapid-fire introduction of new vocabulary and terms initially makes reading difficult due to the absence of prior context, it was a strong and enthralling beginning. Given that the world building seems to draw extensively from both Latin and the Catholic Church, some knowledge with both would come handy. But as I stated already, the glossary helps a lot as well.
The pace of the story was perfect. I never felt like I had to rush through the pages to keep up. Also, there weren’t any boring sections that contained too many explanations or described unimportant dialogues and actions.
City of Storms is really well written, and I didn’t even lose touch with the characters. They did take a little time before I took a liking to them, including the antihero.
Conclusion
★★★★★
I really did enjoy reading City of Storms, and I am really excited to dive right into the next installment. I can’t really say why I am excited, because I am not willing to leave any spoilers. But I can recommend this book for readers who enjoy Dark Fantasy paired with Mystery, Magic and Paranormal.
I received an advance review copy for free at BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
March 7, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
I found this book hard to follow. It felt like it started in the middle of a story and never fully went back to explain things.
The characters relationships almost felt forced except Kasia and Alexei. It all felt rushed and disjointed.
I did think the general idea of the book was a good one just not 100%sure of the execution.
I found this book hard to follow. It felt like it started in the middle of a story and never fully went back to explain things.
The characters relationships almost felt forced except Kasia and Alexei. It all felt rushed and disjointed.
I did think the general idea of the book was a good one just not 100%sure of the execution.
November 20, 2022
This book has it all! Magic is the base of this story’s religion, government, economy and caste system. Although ley magic has been used extensively in other novels, Kat Ross has a fresh take on it in City of Storms. Her characters are unique and full of human flaws. Even the antagonist(s) have plot lines I’m interested in following! I crushed this book in 2 days and can’t wait to read the next one in the series. I highly recommend it.
April 22, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ closed door romance
This book hooked me from the beginning. I was so invested. It kept me guessing & really intrigued. I was so excited to read a book that was all show not tell and threw me into the action.
Unfortunately after the 50% mark I just lost interest & skimmed the rest. Not sure if that is my slump or the pacing.
This book hooked me from the beginning. I was so invested. It kept me guessing & really intrigued. I was so excited to read a book that was all show not tell and threw me into the action.
Unfortunately after the 50% mark I just lost interest & skimmed the rest. Not sure if that is my slump or the pacing.
August 13, 2024
I really liked this but can’t see myself reading the other books. I enjoyed the story and the characters—especially the protagonist—were pleasant. The start was a lot of information but it quickly got better, I didn’t find the book overwhelming but at the beginning it seemed that way. The names were something to get used to but that also worked itself out quickly.
May 16, 2024
In un mondo in cui pulsioni ed emozioni sono tenute strettamente sotto controllo dalla Chiesa, che impone Marchi in grado di donare poteri a caro prezzo, il sacerdote Aleksej indaga su una morte misteriosa. Kasia, una cartomante che nasconde più di quanto non sappia lei stessa, fugge dal potere di un Mago della Notte, un reietto di un mondo perduto deciso a tutto pur di vendicarsi di quell’ambiente ecclesiastico che ha condannato la sua civiltà all’esilio e all’oblio.
Finché tutto non collassa.
Strutturato su tre punti di vista principali, La Città delle Tempeste muove un gruppo crescente di figure ben costruite, la cui evoluzione è tangibile sin dalla prima metà del volume. Un lavoro certosino sugli aspetti psicologici, il passato e alcuni eventi cardine consentono al lettore di affezionarsi ai protagonisti in breve tempo, giungendo alla conclusione soddisfatti degli sviluppi.
Le fasi di transizione e i dialoghi di approfondimento permettono a ogni personaggio di trovare il proprio spazio, in un gioco di equilibri davvero ben gestito.
L’autrice presenta uno stile pulito, privo di fronzoli e ridotto all’essenziale: i pochissimi infodump e le frasi brevi e dai giusti “beat” consentono di gestire un ritmo vivace (supportato da un’ottima traduzione).
I dialoghi, in particolare, presentano scambi realistici e stimolanti, e risultano una delle parti più riuscite del romanzo.
Promossi, con riserva, i combattimenti: il sistema magico, pur presentando un potenziale incredibile (e piuttosto interessante per i fan di Sanderson), deve essere ancora esplorato nel suo complesso.
La Città delle Tempeste è stata una sorpresa inaspettata: in un contesto Urban dal worldbuilding interessante, l’autrice dipana una storia col ritmo di un thriller, carica di intrighi politici, misteri ecclesiastici e un sistema magico dai risvolti sorprendenti.
Un primo volume, questo, che riesce a convincere in pochi capitoli, forte di un potenziale enorme e delle capacità della Ross di asciugare la storia per non renderla inutilmente prolissa, spiegando il necessario e lasciando il resto alla curiosità del lettore.
Finché tutto non collassa.
Strutturato su tre punti di vista principali, La Città delle Tempeste muove un gruppo crescente di figure ben costruite, la cui evoluzione è tangibile sin dalla prima metà del volume. Un lavoro certosino sugli aspetti psicologici, il passato e alcuni eventi cardine consentono al lettore di affezionarsi ai protagonisti in breve tempo, giungendo alla conclusione soddisfatti degli sviluppi.
Le fasi di transizione e i dialoghi di approfondimento permettono a ogni personaggio di trovare il proprio spazio, in un gioco di equilibri davvero ben gestito.
L’autrice presenta uno stile pulito, privo di fronzoli e ridotto all’essenziale: i pochissimi infodump e le frasi brevi e dai giusti “beat” consentono di gestire un ritmo vivace (supportato da un’ottima traduzione).
I dialoghi, in particolare, presentano scambi realistici e stimolanti, e risultano una delle parti più riuscite del romanzo.
Promossi, con riserva, i combattimenti: il sistema magico, pur presentando un potenziale incredibile (e piuttosto interessante per i fan di Sanderson), deve essere ancora esplorato nel suo complesso.
La Città delle Tempeste è stata una sorpresa inaspettata: in un contesto Urban dal worldbuilding interessante, l’autrice dipana una storia col ritmo di un thriller, carica di intrighi politici, misteri ecclesiastici e un sistema magico dai risvolti sorprendenti.
Un primo volume, questo, che riesce a convincere in pochi capitoli, forte di un potenziale enorme e delle capacità della Ross di asciugare la storia per non renderla inutilmente prolissa, spiegando il necessario e lasciando il resto alla curiosità del lettore.
April 29, 2023
I was provided a copy of this book by Voracious Readers Only in exchange for a review.
I normally like to start my review with a small blurb about the plot. However, it's quite difficult to explain the plot without spoilers when it all starts to fit together halfway through the book.
I loved this book. The chapters were written from perspectives including the supposed villain. It created a wholesome understanding of the characters and plot not found with a single narrator. Each character provided a different opinion of their society structure, which matures and develops alongside their character development. The world building was superb, with a gripping plot keeping me captivated and finishing this book within 2 days.
The biggest issue for me was how the world building was introduced. Kat Ross has created this amazing world but doesn't quite fill the readers in on certain details. There may be something mentioned on one page without really explaining what it meant until 50 pages later. It should be noted that in my excitement, I didn't read the glossary as I went along. The glossary provided great information about characters as well as terms important to the understanding of their society. Yet, the smaller details weren't mentioned causing confusion.
Overall, Kat Ross has written a spectacular book with an engaging plot and enlightening character development.
I normally like to start my review with a small blurb about the plot. However, it's quite difficult to explain the plot without spoilers when it all starts to fit together halfway through the book.
I loved this book. The chapters were written from perspectives including the supposed villain. It created a wholesome understanding of the characters and plot not found with a single narrator. Each character provided a different opinion of their society structure, which matures and develops alongside their character development. The world building was superb, with a gripping plot keeping me captivated and finishing this book within 2 days.
The biggest issue for me was how the world building was introduced. Kat Ross has created this amazing world but doesn't quite fill the readers in on certain details. There may be something mentioned on one page without really explaining what it meant until 50 pages later. It should be noted that in my excitement, I didn't read the glossary as I went along. The glossary provided great information about characters as well as terms important to the understanding of their society. Yet, the smaller details weren't mentioned causing confusion.
Overall, Kat Ross has written a spectacular book with an engaging plot and enlightening character development.
December 17, 2021
'City Of Storms' has the making of a good book, however, it has some fatal failings. By page fifty, there is still no explanation of what 'marks' or 'curia' are (among other elements), an ambiguous setting, and a dull main character. I wanted to enjoy this book, but the lack of explanations was infuriating. DNF.
It is written well, and boasts an interesting premise. If you have more perseverance than I you may find it enjoyable.
It is written well, and boasts an interesting premise. If you have more perseverance than I you may find it enjoyable.
February 21, 2024
I took 3 goes to get to chapter 3, then I was away. Absolutely stellar world-building, fascinating characters and a story that twists and winds and keeps secrets. I loved it - it’s certainly as good as many super-hyped series (and better than many!).
October 24, 2022
This is a completely different take on magic and how it’s used. Blended with an almost cult like church that fractured and has fought within itself for ages. The age old tradition of oppressing those who are different and using fear as a tactic to turn entire populations against one another is a very present theme. The conspiracies keep you wanting answers even when you get something. Lezarius is such a wild card that I know he’s gonna keep me on my toes. Kasia is my favorite though proving that extraordinary comes from within. Malach is quite honestly my type, the highly intelligent bad boy with an ego, but deep down he’s not all bad. The layers that keep getting exposed are fascinating and I genuinely don’t know how it will all play out yet. So onto the next installment.
August 27, 2021
I’m not prone to bouts of effusiveness but I couldn’t gush enough about Kat Ross’s books, I enjoy them so much. This one has a Slavic feel, which was really interesting to me, and I loved the rainy city of Novostopol (also the map illustration is gorgeous). Added to the unique setting and fantasy elements are Ross’s usual mix of great characters, a twisty-turny plot, romance and a touch of humour. I already can’t wait for book 2!
October 22, 2023
Fast paced fantasy noir in an eastern European inspired setting, with slight gaslamp flavor (limited technology), some mystery, lots of action, and very detailed worldbuilding, backstory, and magical system.
The plot.... the plot is complicated and twisty-turny. But we have three major characters, a sort of magical policeman haunted by his past, a woman with secrets, and the man exiled for his evil magic, plus a whole host of supporting characters. A huge strength of this book is that we get POV from each of the major characters, plus some others, which really helps develop all aspects of the storyline. The trouble really gets going soon in the second chapter, and then all mad chaos breaks out about halfway through the book. Buckle up, it's a fast ride.
So, my one problem with the book is that it's a bit confusing. The very detailed worldbuilding isn't explained in detail. We actually get a better explanation towards the end of the story, when we find out (as is wont to happen in these stories) that not everything is quite how we were led to believe.
Nearly all the characters could be classified as morally grey. There are bad guys who do good things, good guys who do bad things, and most of the characters I wasn't really sure if they were good or bad because the plot kept twisting too fast for me to keep up. But somehow I managed to LIKE nearly all of them.
This book was fast-paced and a lot of fun to read. Even though I would have preferred more detailed explanations, the lack of them kept the pace fast and there always was just (barely) enough that I wasn't actually lost, just wishing I understood a bit more. The plot is first-rate and the vivid characters really make the story. Recommended if you like action, dark fantasy, or great characters.
This is the first installment in a series. It ends at a pause in the action - not a cliffhanger, but neither is everything resolved.
Content advisory: Rated R for strong language, sexual references, a couple brief sex scenes, and brief violence.
The plot.... the plot is complicated and twisty-turny. But we have three major characters, a sort of magical policeman haunted by his past, a woman with secrets, and the man exiled for his evil magic, plus a whole host of supporting characters. A huge strength of this book is that we get POV from each of the major characters, plus some others, which really helps develop all aspects of the storyline. The trouble really gets going soon in the second chapter, and then all mad chaos breaks out about halfway through the book. Buckle up, it's a fast ride.
So, my one problem with the book is that it's a bit confusing. The very detailed worldbuilding isn't explained in detail. We actually get a better explanation towards the end of the story, when we find out (as is wont to happen in these stories) that not everything is quite how we were led to believe.
Nearly all the characters could be classified as morally grey. There are bad guys who do good things, good guys who do bad things, and most of the characters I wasn't really sure if they were good or bad because the plot kept twisting too fast for me to keep up. But somehow I managed to LIKE nearly all of them.
This book was fast-paced and a lot of fun to read. Even though I would have preferred more detailed explanations, the lack of them kept the pace fast and there always was just (barely) enough that I wasn't actually lost, just wishing I understood a bit more. The plot is first-rate and the vivid characters really make the story. Recommended if you like action, dark fantasy, or great characters.
This is the first installment in a series. It ends at a pause in the action - not a cliffhanger, but neither is everything resolved.
Content advisory: Rated R for strong language, sexual references, a couple brief sex scenes, and brief violence.
September 9, 2024
City of Storms is a rich, vivid world not entirely unlike the one we live in, but very much distinct and fascinating. Although the same ambitions and politics drive the characters in Kat Ross's world, the balances are controlled by powers unlike anything one sees in a world populated by mere humans.
I really like Kat Ross's writing, her imagination makes me feel inspired in my own writing and her magical systems are always so complex and so beautifully layered within the human psyche. I think her pacing is great and her twists are brilliant. But I struggled to understand how City of Storms worked. I felt like I was airdropped in the middle of a revamped Catholic church schism and I did not know which way to go. I struggled to understand the complexities of how magic worked in this heavily Slavic influenced world(the obvious combination of cultures is so delightful for me!) and at times I could not follow the many auxiliary story lines or invest enough interest. Maybe I read this book at the wrong time, but the plot line felt like it was loosing itself a few times.
However, I think the characters were quite interestingly and very attentively fleshed out, they are multi-facetted and emotionally intelligent and I can always get behind that. I love the priest-detective cross, it did channel The Name of the Rose for me, even if only around the outskirts.
All in all, I liked a lot of the elements in this book, but I am not sure I am ready to recommend it to my friends just yet. Maybe I need to give it another go, who knows?
I really like Kat Ross's writing, her imagination makes me feel inspired in my own writing and her magical systems are always so complex and so beautifully layered within the human psyche. I think her pacing is great and her twists are brilliant. But I struggled to understand how City of Storms worked. I felt like I was airdropped in the middle of a revamped Catholic church schism and I did not know which way to go. I struggled to understand the complexities of how magic worked in this heavily Slavic influenced world(the obvious combination of cultures is so delightful for me!) and at times I could not follow the many auxiliary story lines or invest enough interest. Maybe I read this book at the wrong time, but the plot line felt like it was loosing itself a few times.
However, I think the characters were quite interestingly and very attentively fleshed out, they are multi-facetted and emotionally intelligent and I can always get behind that. I love the priest-detective cross, it did channel The Name of the Rose for me, even if only around the outskirts.
All in all, I liked a lot of the elements in this book, but I am not sure I am ready to recommend it to my friends just yet. Maybe I need to give it another go, who knows?
February 14, 2025
3⭐️ leaning towards 3,5⭐️
This book was massively interesting, but it was still lacking on some points for me. Enough so, that I will not continue the series, despite being curious how it continues.
The start of the book is a bit tough, in the sense that there’s a lot of info about the world, a lot of things to learn. There’s a glossary, but especially in an e-book I don’t like having to flip back and forth to it -I’d rather see the things easily explained in the story. Even so, I’m glad there was a glossary.
I did take a liking to the markhounds immediately, almost found them to be in it too little haha. But based on the plot, they’re in it the right amount, I think. Although I’d have loved just a little bit more on Alexei and Alice’s relationship there.
I also found Kasia’s part start interesting, and overall her pov’s did entertain me best. I even feel the book could have been more interesting, more mysterious, had it solely been Kasia’s pov -or her’s and Nikola’s or something.
In the end, I think there was too much focus on the storyline, on facts, and not enough on emotions -on relationships (not necessarily romantically). I didn’t quite feel the chemistry between the characters where needed, when things finally happened.
This book was massively interesting, but it was still lacking on some points for me. Enough so, that I will not continue the series, despite being curious how it continues.
The start of the book is a bit tough, in the sense that there’s a lot of info about the world, a lot of things to learn. There’s a glossary, but especially in an e-book I don’t like having to flip back and forth to it -I’d rather see the things easily explained in the story. Even so, I’m glad there was a glossary.
I did take a liking to the markhounds immediately, almost found them to be in it too little haha. But based on the plot, they’re in it the right amount, I think. Although I’d have loved just a little bit more on Alexei and Alice’s relationship there.
I also found Kasia’s part start interesting, and overall her pov’s did entertain me best. I even feel the book could have been more interesting, more mysterious, had it solely been Kasia’s pov -or her’s and Nikola’s or something.
In the end, I think there was too much focus on the storyline, on facts, and not enough on emotions -on relationships (not necessarily romantically). I didn’t quite feel the chemistry between the characters where needed, when things finally happened.
July 20, 2025
i chanced upon this book and must say i am not at all disappointed by it. the characters and their respective motivations were thoroughly fleshed out, which made you root for each character individually (regardless of whether you (dis)agreed with them or not). furthermore, the different points of view made the story all the more interesting.
my favourite aspect of this book was its unique magic system, albeit a bit hard to understand at first. my only suggestion (and why this book will unfortunately not receive five stars) is that some relationships in the book felt rushed and superficial. more specifically, alexei’s and kasia’s. it also could use a bit more detail and description in its writing, although that is entirely a personal preference.
i would definitely suggest this book, and i’m excited to start on the next one - if only to read more about malach and nikola.
my favourite aspect of this book was its unique magic system, albeit a bit hard to understand at first. my only suggestion (and why this book will unfortunately not receive five stars) is that some relationships in the book felt rushed and superficial. more specifically, alexei’s and kasia’s. it also could use a bit more detail and description in its writing, although that is entirely a personal preference.
i would definitely suggest this book, and i’m excited to start on the next one - if only to read more about malach and nikola.
September 26, 2021
It took a while for me to get into this story as at first it just didn't seem to make sense. Once I was able to grasp the story a few chapters in, I truly enjoyed this book.
The characters seemed well written and defined.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters seemed well written and defined.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2024
Starting the new year with a really great book. Through you in at the deep end with world building and action that still baffles me 400 something pages later.
“Funny how the mind forgot the pain and sadness of youth, sanding it down to uniform smoothness and the golden glow of an endless summer.”
The characters were fun and intriguing, now I’m gonna have to buy the next one !!
“Funny how the mind forgot the pain and sadness of youth, sanding it down to uniform smoothness and the golden glow of an endless summer.”
The characters were fun and intriguing, now I’m gonna have to buy the next one !!
October 15, 2022
I've read several of Ms. Ross's books and thoroughly enjoyed them. This one? Even after finishing it and thinking it over, I'm still not sure.
I read Tarot cards, so I found that aspect of the book familiar and used to great effect. And the Ley system of magic seems very believable in the Nightmarked world. Its effects on people take it far beyond mere spellcasting. Everything in this world resonates with every other aspect, from magic to technology and from politics to psychology. It's an intricately constructed, cohesive whole: remove one aspect and the tower would collapse. The characters who live in this world help to shape it as much as it shapes them. As usual, Ms. Ross doesn't settle for the trivial surface of a story; she digs deep.
Why four stars instead of five? I believe it's because of the characters. Don't get me wrong. Character development in this story is as involved and well thought out as the world building and the magical system are. I just couldn't find one I could relate to, and that kept it from being the immersive experience I usually find in her work.
Even so, this is a well-written, intriguing, somewhat disturbing, captivating read, and I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read Tarot cards, so I found that aspect of the book familiar and used to great effect. And the Ley system of magic seems very believable in the Nightmarked world. Its effects on people take it far beyond mere spellcasting. Everything in this world resonates with every other aspect, from magic to technology and from politics to psychology. It's an intricately constructed, cohesive whole: remove one aspect and the tower would collapse. The characters who live in this world help to shape it as much as it shapes them. As usual, Ms. Ross doesn't settle for the trivial surface of a story; she digs deep.
Why four stars instead of five? I believe it's because of the characters. Don't get me wrong. Character development in this story is as involved and well thought out as the world building and the magical system are. I just couldn't find one I could relate to, and that kept it from being the immersive experience I usually find in her work.
Even so, this is a well-written, intriguing, somewhat disturbing, captivating read, and I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 26, 2023
world building and magic system really interesting, however, the book was too fast past and only explained terms maybe 50 pages after they were introduced (i only noticed the glossary when i finished the book oops). although i like the characters, i didn’t feel fully connected to any of them as the writing felt a bit surface level. will i read the next book? we’ll see…
July 1, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
The first half of this book was totally gripping! A new magic system, a good mystery, great writing. Nothing really changed in the second half I just realised that the tropes in this series are not what I enjoy in a book. It was great, just not for me :)
The first half of this book was totally gripping! A new magic system, a good mystery, great writing. Nothing really changed in the second half I just realised that the tropes in this series are not what I enjoy in a book. It was great, just not for me :)
November 7, 2025
3.5 stars
I'm not sure how to rate this book 🤔it has an intricate religious system, a rich history (of which we only learn half) and interesting characters. But there are some inconsistencies and not everything is fully explained. Because of the complexity of the story, the (extremely mild) spice felt unnecessary. It was awkward and insufficiently interwoven in the plot. This book would've been better off without the sudden bouts of hormones. The whole thing felt like a build up, getting the pieces in place for the next book. And 500 + pages is a long build up..
I'm not sure how to rate this book 🤔it has an intricate religious system, a rich history (of which we only learn half) and interesting characters. But there are some inconsistencies and not everything is fully explained. Because of the complexity of the story, the (extremely mild) spice felt unnecessary. It was awkward and insufficiently interwoven in the plot. This book would've been better off without the sudden bouts of hormones. The whole thing felt like a build up, getting the pieces in place for the next book. And 500 + pages is a long build up..
May 2, 2023
Really unusual and a world I want to read more in
January 14, 2025
Such a long book for no reason. Some parts kept my interest but some I had to skip. Plot was all over and it was sort of hard to follow along
soft-dnf
July 26, 2025soft dnfing for now.. rs is kicking my ass
August 5, 2022
An Urban Fantasy in a dystopian setting with magic that manipulates psychic energy. Um, yes, please. And there’s a plot afoot!? This has to be good. Let’s find out!
Read if you like: Urban fantasy, dark fantasy, paranormal, dystopian, interesting magical systems, false utopia, government plots, mystery, multiple POV, searching for truth, slow burn, world-building, and complex characters.
Kasia is a card reader with a secret. Alexei is a priest looking for revenge. Malach is a mage trying to free his people. Nikola is nobody, and just wants to be free. Their lives are ordered by their relationship to The Church and whether or not they are worthy to carry a mark that connects them to the ley magic and that supposedly helps them control their most base desires. The war was fought, the church declared victory and the mages were cast into the wilderness. Anyone who is not psychological sound is unable to be marked and finds themselves at the bottom of society.
But what happens when emotions can not be contained by the marks and just how does this ley magic control everyone cognitive processes. No one would believe the real history of The Church. Who will win the truth?
This book was epic. The world building and magical systems were massive but familiar enough that I never felt lost, but rather awed by the way Kat Ross blended paranormal and sci-fi tropes into something unique. The characters are layered and complex. They all have questions and want answers and in a society that is built on regulating the mind… questions can only mean trouble.
It’s twisty and full of action. There is great chemistry with the characters, and I only want more. I was completely invested in this society and constantly trying to figure out if anyone truly knows what ‘good’ means anymore. There is a clear delineation of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ but everything has been severely warped by years of manipulation and control. The end left me wanting and I can’t wait to begin book 2, City of Wolves.
So why not 5 stars? There were times where I felt like I was missing something. Either because there is a lot of terminology with nicknames, roles, places, rules etc. and I would have to stop and reorient myself frequently; or, because it felt like we were left to infer a lot about the characters’ core personalities and how the systems work.
Kasia has a deep yearning, there’s a lot to unpack with her but we don’t get a lot and it leads to some big jumps with her relationships that are a bit jarring. I understand it, I can connect it, it’s tricky finding it on the page. Malach is the same way. You get a different description from the blurb than I get from reading this book. I can see that he would have to be all those things, but we don’t see that fully realized. However, he’s quite intriguing and leaves you wondering what his true motivations are.
All in all, with such a huge plot and so many people and moving parts to keep track of I was able to finish it quite quickly. It’s bingeable and you feel immersed in this peculiar world of magic, psychology, and regulations. Onward to book 2, City of Wolves!
Thank you to Book Sirens and Kat Ross for my advance review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Read if you like: Urban fantasy, dark fantasy, paranormal, dystopian, interesting magical systems, false utopia, government plots, mystery, multiple POV, searching for truth, slow burn, world-building, and complex characters.
Kasia is a card reader with a secret. Alexei is a priest looking for revenge. Malach is a mage trying to free his people. Nikola is nobody, and just wants to be free. Their lives are ordered by their relationship to The Church and whether or not they are worthy to carry a mark that connects them to the ley magic and that supposedly helps them control their most base desires. The war was fought, the church declared victory and the mages were cast into the wilderness. Anyone who is not psychological sound is unable to be marked and finds themselves at the bottom of society.
But what happens when emotions can not be contained by the marks and just how does this ley magic control everyone cognitive processes. No one would believe the real history of The Church. Who will win the truth?
This book was epic. The world building and magical systems were massive but familiar enough that I never felt lost, but rather awed by the way Kat Ross blended paranormal and sci-fi tropes into something unique. The characters are layered and complex. They all have questions and want answers and in a society that is built on regulating the mind… questions can only mean trouble.
It’s twisty and full of action. There is great chemistry with the characters, and I only want more. I was completely invested in this society and constantly trying to figure out if anyone truly knows what ‘good’ means anymore. There is a clear delineation of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ but everything has been severely warped by years of manipulation and control. The end left me wanting and I can’t wait to begin book 2, City of Wolves.
So why not 5 stars? There were times where I felt like I was missing something. Either because there is a lot of terminology with nicknames, roles, places, rules etc. and I would have to stop and reorient myself frequently; or, because it felt like we were left to infer a lot about the characters’ core personalities and how the systems work.
Kasia has a deep yearning, there’s a lot to unpack with her but we don’t get a lot and it leads to some big jumps with her relationships that are a bit jarring. I understand it, I can connect it, it’s tricky finding it on the page. Malach is the same way. You get a different description from the blurb than I get from reading this book. I can see that he would have to be all those things, but we don’t see that fully realized. However, he’s quite intriguing and leaves you wondering what his true motivations are.
All in all, with such a huge plot and so many people and moving parts to keep track of I was able to finish it quite quickly. It’s bingeable and you feel immersed in this peculiar world of magic, psychology, and regulations. Onward to book 2, City of Wolves!
Thank you to Book Sirens and Kat Ross for my advance review copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 15, 2022
Thank you to Book Sirens as I received a review copy of this book from them. This has not impacted my rating or review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Once I started it, I read 200 pages in my first sitting without even realising. What really drew me into this book is it’s magic system. People are ‘marked’ by magic (literally with tattoos) and those marks can become inverted, which makes a person go violently insane. The people with inverted marks are hunted and captured/killed (depends on the captor) by a brotherhood similar to priests (sort of). I haven’t read anything like this before. It was well written and very intriguing. In addition, we get cartomancy and ley line magic, which I’ve been craving more of ever since I read The Raven Boys last year. It gave the book that paranormal magic system that is so difficult to do well, but I enjoyed its inclusion in this book.
The characters were also well written and enjoyable to read. I loved the mystery that surrounded Kasia’s character and figuring out exactly what her place in this magic system was. I became very fond of Alexei, definitely an interesting and likeable main character. I still haven’t decided if I liked Alexei’s partner Spassov but he was well written for a side character either way.
My only issue with this book that prevented a 5 star rating was that some elements were confusing in the world building. I couldn’t figure out what time period this was supposed to be inspired by. On one hand you have cars in the main city, on the other, a nearby city has horse and carriages. Those are two hugely different stages of development. It sort of felt like it should have been a fully urban fantasy, completely modern and the author just wasn’t sure how to write fantasy without historical elements, especially when the plot relies on organisations and a society that seems far more historical than the rest of the setting of the book. I just didn’t like the strange mix, but thankfully that didn’t impact the plot much so I could mostly ignore it. Another confusing inclusion was that names were constantly changing. From first names to surnames to nicknames, for the same characters. So it took me the first 5 or 6 chapters just to be sure of who everyone was.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book. It’s a really interesting read with good characters and a great magic system. Just don’t get hung up on little details like those I mentioned because it gets in the way of enjoying the book as much as you can.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Once I started it, I read 200 pages in my first sitting without even realising. What really drew me into this book is it’s magic system. People are ‘marked’ by magic (literally with tattoos) and those marks can become inverted, which makes a person go violently insane. The people with inverted marks are hunted and captured/killed (depends on the captor) by a brotherhood similar to priests (sort of). I haven’t read anything like this before. It was well written and very intriguing. In addition, we get cartomancy and ley line magic, which I’ve been craving more of ever since I read The Raven Boys last year. It gave the book that paranormal magic system that is so difficult to do well, but I enjoyed its inclusion in this book.
The characters were also well written and enjoyable to read. I loved the mystery that surrounded Kasia’s character and figuring out exactly what her place in this magic system was. I became very fond of Alexei, definitely an interesting and likeable main character. I still haven’t decided if I liked Alexei’s partner Spassov but he was well written for a side character either way.
My only issue with this book that prevented a 5 star rating was that some elements were confusing in the world building. I couldn’t figure out what time period this was supposed to be inspired by. On one hand you have cars in the main city, on the other, a nearby city has horse and carriages. Those are two hugely different stages of development. It sort of felt like it should have been a fully urban fantasy, completely modern and the author just wasn’t sure how to write fantasy without historical elements, especially when the plot relies on organisations and a society that seems far more historical than the rest of the setting of the book. I just didn’t like the strange mix, but thankfully that didn’t impact the plot much so I could mostly ignore it. Another confusing inclusion was that names were constantly changing. From first names to surnames to nicknames, for the same characters. So it took me the first 5 or 6 chapters just to be sure of who everyone was.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book. It’s a really interesting read with good characters and a great magic system. Just don’t get hung up on little details like those I mentioned because it gets in the way of enjoying the book as much as you can.
September 16, 2023
In Novostopol, the rain never stops. Neither do political intrigues.
Built atop ancient construction, the city is filled with currents of the ley, a natural force used to dampen negative emotions and heighten more desirable abilities. But not all the population has been deemed deserving of access to the ley. Those who remain unmarked, considered moral degenerates, find themselves existing in Novostopol’s lowest cast, shunned and pushed to the edges of society. The most dangerous citizens, though, don’t come from the ranks of the unmarked.
Father Alexei Bryce, a priest of the Eastern Curia, is tasked with tracking down the city’s most threatening inhabitants. Unpredictable and capable of monstrous acts, the Invertido must be taken into custody before they can do harm to others or themselves. Scorn and derision aside, it’s the perfect opportunity for Alexei to hunt for the person he’s really after.
Kasia Novak is young, beautiful, and well-connected. A gifted cartomancer, she has made a living telling others what the ley has in store for them. Her own connection to the ley, however, has put her into a precarious position.
When a chilling attack causes their paths to cross, Alexei and Kasia find themselves caught up in a scheme that threatens to destroy everything they know and everyone they love. With time running out and no idea who to trust, they must work together to put an end to a lunatic’s plans.
A page-turning read, Kat Ross’s “City of Storms” uses a unique story concept to give fantasy fans something they can devour. Her expert world-building lays the groundwork for a truly immersive reading experience, with her well-thought-out characters providing multiple points for connection. Filled with action, suspense, romance, and a generous helping of scheming, the first installment in the Nightmarked series ticks multiple fantasy sub-genre boxes.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Built atop ancient construction, the city is filled with currents of the ley, a natural force used to dampen negative emotions and heighten more desirable abilities. But not all the population has been deemed deserving of access to the ley. Those who remain unmarked, considered moral degenerates, find themselves existing in Novostopol’s lowest cast, shunned and pushed to the edges of society. The most dangerous citizens, though, don’t come from the ranks of the unmarked.
Father Alexei Bryce, a priest of the Eastern Curia, is tasked with tracking down the city’s most threatening inhabitants. Unpredictable and capable of monstrous acts, the Invertido must be taken into custody before they can do harm to others or themselves. Scorn and derision aside, it’s the perfect opportunity for Alexei to hunt for the person he’s really after.
Kasia Novak is young, beautiful, and well-connected. A gifted cartomancer, she has made a living telling others what the ley has in store for them. Her own connection to the ley, however, has put her into a precarious position.
When a chilling attack causes their paths to cross, Alexei and Kasia find themselves caught up in a scheme that threatens to destroy everything they know and everyone they love. With time running out and no idea who to trust, they must work together to put an end to a lunatic’s plans.
A page-turning read, Kat Ross’s “City of Storms” uses a unique story concept to give fantasy fans something they can devour. Her expert world-building lays the groundwork for a truly immersive reading experience, with her well-thought-out characters providing multiple points for connection. Filled with action, suspense, romance, and a generous helping of scheming, the first installment in the Nightmarked series ticks multiple fantasy sub-genre boxes.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2022
Loved it! Even as a frequent reader of fantasy, I found there were unique aspects to the magic system and how it worked, who used it, and what it was capable of. Also I really appreciated the development of how the magic worked in the theocracy setting – and the different religious sects, and the political power games that come into play with that. There was a ton of religion in the book (with the government and characters) without actually being religious, which was something I appreciated.
I instantly loved Alexei – because dogs always know the good ones – and also Kasia, two of the main characters. Both bright and sharp, with interesting backstories and strong motivations. Still there are viewpoints from a lot of characters which I think worked really well to give the reader an excellent bird’s eye view of the action, and with all the characters being really well developed. Even for characters I didn’t “like” I still loved reading their POV – ah, Malach – and seeing what chaos they were causing next.
Great characters, an interesting magic system, fast-paced, lots of political games – these are a few of my favorite things in fantasy novels. Will absolutely be adding the sequel to my TBR pile.
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book via Voracious Readers Only.
I instantly loved Alexei – because dogs always know the good ones – and also Kasia, two of the main characters. Both bright and sharp, with interesting backstories and strong motivations. Still there are viewpoints from a lot of characters which I think worked really well to give the reader an excellent bird’s eye view of the action, and with all the characters being really well developed. Even for characters I didn’t “like” I still loved reading their POV – ah, Malach – and seeing what chaos they were causing next.
Great characters, an interesting magic system, fast-paced, lots of political games – these are a few of my favorite things in fantasy novels. Will absolutely be adding the sequel to my TBR pile.
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book via Voracious Readers Only.
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