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Nightrunner #2
Stalking Darkness
With the Leran threat laid to rest, Alec and Seregil are now able to turn their attention to the ancient evil which threatens their land. The Plenimarans, at war with Skalans, have decided to defeat their ancient enemy by raising up the Dead God, Seriamaius. The early attempts at this reincarnation—masterminded by the sinister Duke Mardus and his sorcerous minion Vargul Ashnazai—once left Seregil in a sorcerous coma. Now, an ancient prophecy points to his continuing role in the quest to stop Mardus in his dread purpose.
Seregil's friend and Mentor, the wizard Nysander, has long been the guardian of a deadly secret. In a secret, silver-lined room hidden well beneath the Oreska, he has served for most of his 300 years as the keeper of a nondescript clay cup. But this cup, combined with a crystal crown and some wooden disks, forms the Helm of Seriamaius, and any mortal donning the reconstructed Helm will become the incarnation of the god on earth.
Nysander holds the cup and Mardus the wooden disks—one of which was responsible for Seregil's coma—but the crown must still be located. Threatened under pain of death by Nysander to keep his quest a secret even from his loyal companion, Alec, Seregil is dispatched to find the last missing piece of the Helm so that he and Nysander can destroy it. But this is only the beginning of one of his deadliest journeys ever, for the prophecy also holds that four will come together in a time of darkness, and gradually all that Seregil values is placed at risk as he, Alec, Nysander and Micum are drawn into a deadly web of terror and intrigue.
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First published February 3, 1997
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July 15, 2025
Now, here I go again, I see the crystal visions / I keep my visions to myself / It's only me who wants to, wrap around your dreams / And have you any dreams you'd like to sell? (Dreams – Fleetwood Mac).
Would you look at that, I finally finished this mammoth of a book! That’s one monumental task over and done with, now I can focus on the next, even more difficult one; talking about it. Oh noo~ooo! And not to get sexual, but in my defense these books are both super old and really thick, so it’s always hard to come up with something to say about something so complex! So yeah, I really enjoyed Stalking Darkness (which is the title of the book, not just a weird think I’m saying), and it more than delivered as a worthy sequel to Luck in the Shadows. Not just with its ever-present sense of adventure and intrigue, but Lynn Flewelling is also able to go delve into much darker places with its narrative due to the fact that we’re right in the middle of the Empire Strikes Back section of the trilogy. This book hits hard right out the gate, and since somewhere along the way we’ve grown to know and love all these characters, every terrible thing that happens to Alec and Seregil feels incredibly personal! Which is especially noteworthy because other than Alec, I wouldn't say that anyone was written with the intention of being likable, and while that may sound counterintuitive, that’s exactly why the characters are so memorable! Stalking Darkness allows room for them to make mistakes, act selfishly, and tip-toe on the line of morality in addition to their more heroic ideals, not in spite of. See, my initial perception of older high fantasy novels are that they’re so staunchly hellbent on being as complicated and lofty as possible that they end up being untouchable, but I couldn’t have be more wrong in relation to the Nightrunners series. There's an electric and dynamic atmosphere here that I can’t help but compare to more contemporary fantasy like Six of Crows or Master of Restless Shadows! This series might be as "Swords and Sorcery" as possible, what with it dealing in constant wizards and prophecies, but character motivation is always at the forefront of the narrative. If an action will move the plot along but doesn’t feel right for Seregil or Alec, then it won’t happen. You know, when I started reading this book all those eons ago, I specifically remember having several moments of existential dread like, “Oh no! Whatever shall I read now? I’m almost done!!” (that’s how I speak in my mind), and it turns out that I was totally just being dramatic because at the speed I’m currently reading each installment, I’ll probably be reading the Nightrunners series indefinitely! Which will do wonders for my workout because lugging these books around has been a task! I mean, it would be if I didn’t read this on a Kindle, but it still counts because my brain certainly felt the heft! Anyway, my point is that this book has been a constant companion for me for so long that it’s a little bittersweet to be standing on the other end of it now. It was with me wherever I went, and it felt like I was going on my own Alec and Seregil journey! “I've been everywhere, man, across the deserts bare, man, I breathed the mountain air, man.” Otherwise, these books are fun to talk about because they’re like seasons of television. By the time I reached the climactic war battles at the end of the novel, it barely had the same DNA of the story that chronicled Seregil’s little Magnificent Seven side quest where it was just him and a bunch of villagers fending off mercenaries. This book has seasons, and I could seriously just spend the rest of the review listing events!
If you told me years ago that high fantasy would be my go-to fantasy, then I’d give you a lukewarm, “Oh? Alright then.” But then I’d say that it's cool that I can jump into this kind of stuff without hesitation anymore! I even picked up the first Wheel of Time book because I figured that if the Nightrunner series can keep my undivided attention, then I can read anything. It's a powerful feeling, so why don't we talk about it already? Stalking Darkness begins a couple months after Luck in the Shadows with Alec continuing his spy training under the super sexy spy himself, the “somewhat” (in other words, mostly) emotionally unstable and unavailable Seregil. As they're go about their thieving, they soon find themselves entangled in political intrigue and the horrors of war alike that will mark them forever. I've always loved Seregil because he initially comes across as the classic “dashing hero” type and then almost immediately outs himself as a complete mess. You can’t turn a page in this book without his ass being haunted by the narrative, and skillful or not, everyone has a limit when events just constantly keep happening to them! I mean, the truth is that while I understand everything in this book has to go a certain way in order for the plot to move forward naturally, I still grew weary of all the detailed torture scenes. I’m like those people who hate sex scenes in movies, but instead my vitriol is saved for torture scenes! I can’t even go near the Saw movies because it's like, I'm not trying to see all that. Besides that though, everything else in on point, and even the side characters get an upgrade, as we get to see Nysander in a more compromised state than his usual “untouchable wizard” façade. Wait, maybe “compromised” is the wrong word because he (thankfully) doesn't have his dick out, but it’s nice to see him have to cross moral lines regardless. I never liked him based on his rancid vibes alone, but his arc here did help to humanize him a lot. But as for the story though? Well, slight spoiler, but I’m usually not into secret royalty plots because to me they always seem half-baked and overly convenient in a way that also belays uncomfortable messaging about a person's “divine right to rule." My distaste for the trope started with this little indie gem called Dragon Quest 8, and it was groundbreaking because the ending has the princess decide to say “screw you” to societal expectations leave her betrothed at the altar Emancipation of Mimi style so she can be with her true love. It was definitely unique for the time, but then there’s an epilogue chapter that reveals the guy she ended up with was a secret prince from some forgotten kingdom anyway... and damn, I can't properly describe to you my sheer disappointment and I’ve held a grudge ever since! Nonetheless, Stalking Darkness gets a pass in this respect due to the fact that there literally had to be a reveal of some kind about Alec in order to make his relationship with Seregil not have creepy undertones. Sure, their romance is still all-encompassing and co-dependent, but never uncomfortable given the contextual setting and revelations throughout the novel. And that's that! Just in case those five stars up there didn’t already give it away, I totally loved this book; rapt with wonder and grounded in dangerous excitement, there’s nobody else doing it like Lynn Flewelling! I mean, these books are pretty old, but that doesn't change the fact that Stalking Darkness is still out here changing the game!
“All books are valuable. Some are dangerous.”
“Books of spells, you mean?”
Seregil grinned. “Those too, but I was thinking more of ideas. Those can be far more dangerous than any magic.”
Would you look at that, I finally finished this mammoth of a book! That’s one monumental task over and done with, now I can focus on the next, even more difficult one; talking about it. Oh noo~ooo! And not to get sexual, but in my defense these books are both super old and really thick, so it’s always hard to come up with something to say about something so complex! So yeah, I really enjoyed Stalking Darkness (which is the title of the book, not just a weird think I’m saying), and it more than delivered as a worthy sequel to Luck in the Shadows. Not just with its ever-present sense of adventure and intrigue, but Lynn Flewelling is also able to go delve into much darker places with its narrative due to the fact that we’re right in the middle of the Empire Strikes Back section of the trilogy. This book hits hard right out the gate, and since somewhere along the way we’ve grown to know and love all these characters, every terrible thing that happens to Alec and Seregil feels incredibly personal! Which is especially noteworthy because other than Alec, I wouldn't say that anyone was written with the intention of being likable, and while that may sound counterintuitive, that’s exactly why the characters are so memorable! Stalking Darkness allows room for them to make mistakes, act selfishly, and tip-toe on the line of morality in addition to their more heroic ideals, not in spite of. See, my initial perception of older high fantasy novels are that they’re so staunchly hellbent on being as complicated and lofty as possible that they end up being untouchable, but I couldn’t have be more wrong in relation to the Nightrunners series. There's an electric and dynamic atmosphere here that I can’t help but compare to more contemporary fantasy like Six of Crows or Master of Restless Shadows! This series might be as "Swords and Sorcery" as possible, what with it dealing in constant wizards and prophecies, but character motivation is always at the forefront of the narrative. If an action will move the plot along but doesn’t feel right for Seregil or Alec, then it won’t happen. You know, when I started reading this book all those eons ago, I specifically remember having several moments of existential dread like, “Oh no! Whatever shall I read now? I’m almost done!!” (that’s how I speak in my mind), and it turns out that I was totally just being dramatic because at the speed I’m currently reading each installment, I’ll probably be reading the Nightrunners series indefinitely! Which will do wonders for my workout because lugging these books around has been a task! I mean, it would be if I didn’t read this on a Kindle, but it still counts because my brain certainly felt the heft! Anyway, my point is that this book has been a constant companion for me for so long that it’s a little bittersweet to be standing on the other end of it now. It was with me wherever I went, and it felt like I was going on my own Alec and Seregil journey! “I've been everywhere, man, across the deserts bare, man, I breathed the mountain air, man.” Otherwise, these books are fun to talk about because they’re like seasons of television. By the time I reached the climactic war battles at the end of the novel, it barely had the same DNA of the story that chronicled Seregil’s little Magnificent Seven side quest where it was just him and a bunch of villagers fending off mercenaries. This book has seasons, and I could seriously just spend the rest of the review listing events!
If you told me years ago that high fantasy would be my go-to fantasy, then I’d give you a lukewarm, “Oh? Alright then.” But then I’d say that it's cool that I can jump into this kind of stuff without hesitation anymore! I even picked up the first Wheel of Time book because I figured that if the Nightrunner series can keep my undivided attention, then I can read anything. It's a powerful feeling, so why don't we talk about it already? Stalking Darkness begins a couple months after Luck in the Shadows with Alec continuing his spy training under the super sexy spy himself, the “somewhat” (in other words, mostly) emotionally unstable and unavailable Seregil. As they're go about their thieving, they soon find themselves entangled in political intrigue and the horrors of war alike that will mark them forever. I've always loved Seregil because he initially comes across as the classic “dashing hero” type and then almost immediately outs himself as a complete mess. You can’t turn a page in this book without his ass being haunted by the narrative, and skillful or not, everyone has a limit when events just constantly keep happening to them! I mean, the truth is that while I understand everything in this book has to go a certain way in order for the plot to move forward naturally, I still grew weary of all the detailed torture scenes. I’m like those people who hate sex scenes in movies, but instead my vitriol is saved for torture scenes! I can’t even go near the Saw movies because it's like, I'm not trying to see all that. Besides that though, everything else in on point, and even the side characters get an upgrade, as we get to see Nysander in a more compromised state than his usual “untouchable wizard” façade. Wait, maybe “compromised” is the wrong word because he (thankfully) doesn't have his dick out, but it’s nice to see him have to cross moral lines regardless. I never liked him based on his rancid vibes alone, but his arc here did help to humanize him a lot. But as for the story though? Well, slight spoiler, but I’m usually not into secret royalty plots because to me they always seem half-baked and overly convenient in a way that also belays uncomfortable messaging about a person's “divine right to rule." My distaste for the trope started with this little indie gem called Dragon Quest 8, and it was groundbreaking because the ending has the princess decide to say “screw you” to societal expectations leave her betrothed at the altar Emancipation of Mimi style so she can be with her true love. It was definitely unique for the time, but then there’s an epilogue chapter that reveals the guy she ended up with was a secret prince from some forgotten kingdom anyway... and damn, I can't properly describe to you my sheer disappointment and I’ve held a grudge ever since! Nonetheless, Stalking Darkness gets a pass in this respect due to the fact that there literally had to be a reveal of some kind about Alec in order to make his relationship with Seregil not have creepy undertones. Sure, their romance is still all-encompassing and co-dependent, but never uncomfortable given the contextual setting and revelations throughout the novel. And that's that! Just in case those five stars up there didn’t already give it away, I totally loved this book; rapt with wonder and grounded in dangerous excitement, there’s nobody else doing it like Lynn Flewelling! I mean, these books are pretty old, but that doesn't change the fact that Stalking Darkness is still out here changing the game!
“All books are valuable. Some are dangerous.”
“Books of spells, you mean?”
Seregil grinned. “Those too, but I was thinking more of ideas. Those can be far more dangerous than any magic.”
September 21, 2025
Outstanding!!!
I'm astonished about this book, a whirlwind of emotions along the pages, I think I've passed through every emotion in this book! The mood was already settled right in the prologue, my heart was beating so fast! The whole mythology, the atmosphere, the characters, so rich, everything overflowing with details, with personality, so well written, I'm delighted! Congratulations to Lynn Flewelling!!!
I love this book so much, the mystery, the adventures, the growing of characters, the action, the action was amazing, the finale, so sweet and with excitement for what's to come!!
Definitely it is in my 6 star shelf, favorite series so far, the second book and already I'm a wreck with all the emotions. Astounding!!!
Amazing art cover, praise to Gary Ruddell!
I have this book on audible as well, Raymond Todd gave a much better performance, the MC voices is more separated, and the acting improved nicely! Kudos!!!
I'm astonished about this book, a whirlwind of emotions along the pages, I think I've passed through every emotion in this book! The mood was already settled right in the prologue, my heart was beating so fast! The whole mythology, the atmosphere, the characters, so rich, everything overflowing with details, with personality, so well written, I'm delighted! Congratulations to Lynn Flewelling!!!
I love this book so much, the mystery, the adventures, the growing of characters, the action, the action was amazing, the finale, so sweet and with excitement for what's to come!!
Definitely it is in my 6 star shelf, favorite series so far, the second book and already I'm a wreck with all the emotions. Astounding!!!
Amazing art cover, praise to Gary Ruddell!
I have this book on audible as well, Raymond Todd gave a much better performance, the MC voices is more separated, and the acting improved nicely! Kudos!!!
August 27, 2014
This is definitely the most underrated series I've come across so far. The first book is great. This one? I can't even begin explaining why I loved it so much. I spent the last sixty or so pages (maybe more) crying. From the start till the very end of this book I've gone through so many feelings: from annoyance through astonishment and speechlessness, deep hatred, despair and gloating to bitter-sweet happiness. Add any other you can think of in between and you can find it in this story.
What started in the first book ends here. While the Leran threat was removed in Luck in the Shadows, Alec and Seregil made enemies stealing from Vargul Ashnazai and Duke Mardus. Mardus is trying to make Helm of Seriamaius whole and make himself a god. Nysander sends Seregil to get part of the Helm to him and forbids him to tell Alec anything about it. I was afraid that would ruin the story and it would if it lasted longer. Fortunately, the retrieval of the crown lasts only a few pages.
As in the previous book, they are facing a very dangerous opponent (more dangerous than the Lerans) and it is up to these two and their friends (both old and new, and some unexpected) to deal with it.
It is impossible to say more without spoilers. I would suggest to be careful when reading reviews since some things will ruin your reading experience. I didn't know anything about the plot except the basics from the blurb, so certain events left me stunned.
What started in the first book ends here. While the Leran threat was removed in Luck in the Shadows, Alec and Seregil made enemies stealing from Vargul Ashnazai and Duke Mardus. Mardus is trying to make Helm of Seriamaius whole and make himself a god. Nysander sends Seregil to get part of the Helm to him and forbids him to tell Alec anything about it. I was afraid that would ruin the story and it would if it lasted longer. Fortunately, the retrieval of the crown lasts only a few pages.
As in the previous book, they are facing a very dangerous opponent (more dangerous than the Lerans) and it is up to these two and their friends (both old and new, and some unexpected) to deal with it.
It is impossible to say more without spoilers. I would suggest to be careful when reading reviews since some things will ruin your reading experience. I didn't know anything about the plot except the basics from the blurb, so certain events left me stunned.
December 15, 2024
Secondo romanzo della trilogia di "Nightrunner" che ravviva la trama del primo e dona un profilo di più ampio respiro avvicinandolo ad un epic fantasy e allontanandolo dalla semplice investigazione cittadina. Entrano quindi in campo: politica, rapporti sociali più marcati, una profezia e l' immancabile predestinazione. Tutto però equilibrato e con eventi cardine atti a sconvolgere il lettore al momento giusto.
Bene contro Male.
Un avvio in corsa seguito da una maratona di azione e intrigo. Da perderci il fiato. Poi si giunge alla parte finale con un leggero calo, spostando il tono su binari più adolescenziali e affrettati. La sensazione è quella offerta dalle montagne russe ma scendere troppo presto. Si chiude il cerchio aperto nel primo e rimane la convinzione di trovarsi di fronte ad una duologia e non una trilogia.
Ok, i buoni sono tremendamente buoni e i malvagi sono dannatamente malvagi ma tutti trovano il loro posto e fanno il loro mestiere nel migliore dei modi.
--------------------------------------------------
Second novel of the "Nightrunner" trilogy which revives the plot of the first and gives it a broader profile, bringing it closer to an epic fantasy and moving it away from the simple city investigation. Then come into play: politics, more marked social relationships, a prophecy and the inevitable predestination. However, everything is balanced and with key events designed to shock the reader at the right time.
Good versus Evil.
A fast start followed by a marathon of action and intrigue. To take our breath away. Then we reach the final part with a slight decline, shifting the tone to more adolescent and hurried tracks. The sensation is that offered by a roller coaster but getting off too soon. The circle opened in the first is closed and the conviction remains that we are faced with a duology and not a trilogy.
Ok, the good guys are awfully good and the bad guys are damn evil but they all find their place and do their job as best as they can.
Bene contro Male.
Un avvio in corsa seguito da una maratona di azione e intrigo. Da perderci il fiato. Poi si giunge alla parte finale con un leggero calo, spostando il tono su binari più adolescenziali e affrettati. La sensazione è quella offerta dalle montagne russe ma scendere troppo presto. Si chiude il cerchio aperto nel primo e rimane la convinzione di trovarsi di fronte ad una duologia e non una trilogia.
Ok, i buoni sono tremendamente buoni e i malvagi sono dannatamente malvagi ma tutti trovano il loro posto e fanno il loro mestiere nel migliore dei modi.
--------------------------------------------------
Second novel of the "Nightrunner" trilogy which revives the plot of the first and gives it a broader profile, bringing it closer to an epic fantasy and moving it away from the simple city investigation. Then come into play: politics, more marked social relationships, a prophecy and the inevitable predestination. However, everything is balanced and with key events designed to shock the reader at the right time.
Good versus Evil.
A fast start followed by a marathon of action and intrigue. To take our breath away. Then we reach the final part with a slight decline, shifting the tone to more adolescent and hurried tracks. The sensation is that offered by a roller coaster but getting off too soon. The circle opened in the first is closed and the conviction remains that we are faced with a duology and not a trilogy.
Ok, the good guys are awfully good and the bad guys are damn evil but they all find their place and do their job as best as they can.
June 22, 2021
Non ci sono abbastanza parole conosciute dall'uomo per descrivere questo libro, sopratutto il suo finale. Leggete e amate.
December 6, 2010
I'm of two minds about this book.
It is good fantasy adventure. There is a good pace to the adventure, and while some of the world may have been a bit foggier than other books in this genre, I did enjoy the quests, magic, and intrigue.
HOWEVER, I was really, really bothered by the romantic relationship between the two main characters. It isn't about the homosexual part of it (though that did suprise me when I was 16). The problem I had with this was the age and social maturity difference between the coupling. When I was 16 first reading this I denouced Seregil as a pedophile, guilty of emotional incest, and felt personally betrayed when the hero who I'd been cheering on for 2 books turned out to be a sex offender. To explain the insest thing, I always felt that Seregil had defacto adopted Alec as a surrogate brother.
I'm nearing 30 now, and I reread the books recently. I'm less quick to denouce Seregil, and am able to feel a little more, to-each-his-own about it. But, there remains something wrong about the relationship. If I were friend to the people involved I would council them to give it more time for their maturity levels to normalize before jumping into a relationship with such a dramatic imbalance in the power dynamic.
I know that the current hot trend is age-old vampires sexing up teenage girls, and that is somehow considered acceptable, but I will continue to question any relationship based on such unstable initial footing.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, but only to mature readers. Those who have a firm grip on the difference between right and wrong.
It is good fantasy adventure. There is a good pace to the adventure, and while some of the world may have been a bit foggier than other books in this genre, I did enjoy the quests, magic, and intrigue.
HOWEVER, I was really, really bothered by the romantic relationship between the two main characters. It isn't about the homosexual part of it (though that did suprise me when I was 16). The problem I had with this was the age and social maturity difference between the coupling. When I was 16 first reading this I denouced Seregil as a pedophile, guilty of emotional incest, and felt personally betrayed when the hero who I'd been cheering on for 2 books turned out to be a sex offender. To explain the insest thing, I always felt that Seregil had defacto adopted Alec as a surrogate brother.
I'm nearing 30 now, and I reread the books recently. I'm less quick to denouce Seregil, and am able to feel a little more, to-each-his-own about it. But, there remains something wrong about the relationship. If I were friend to the people involved I would council them to give it more time for their maturity levels to normalize before jumping into a relationship with such a dramatic imbalance in the power dynamic.
I know that the current hot trend is age-old vampires sexing up teenage girls, and that is somehow considered acceptable, but I will continue to question any relationship based on such unstable initial footing.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, but only to mature readers. Those who have a firm grip on the difference between right and wrong.
October 12, 2016
*Trigger: There is some female-on-male rape in this book although it's not in explicit detail*
This book is the second in the series and picks up not too long after the ending of the first. We see that our characters have grown more since the end of book one and settled into routines and life in Rhimanee, but there's still many mysteries to uncover, both about each other and to do with what they found out in book #1.
In this instalment I really did connect more to the character of Seregil and I think, besides Lysander and Micum, he's my favourite in the book. I do really like Alec and there are moments I really love him, but Seregil is just such an interesting character and his thoughts about life and love intrigue me. Seregil also has the added bonus of a very long life to live and so he's been through much and he's still living and experiencing new things too...
What I did really like about this one is it felt a little more like a storyline rather than just happenstance. Sometimes in book #1 I felt as if the characters were just trundling along without too much *life-threatening* stuff forcing them into tricky situations. This book had a little more action and there was more to play for which meant it kept me interested and excited throughout.
Overall this is a very solid continuation and it again made me want to just keep going with the series (which I have done) so I would highly recommend it. Fantasy with bisexual characters and super fun plot...why, yes please! 4.5*s overall.
This book is the second in the series and picks up not too long after the ending of the first. We see that our characters have grown more since the end of book one and settled into routines and life in Rhimanee, but there's still many mysteries to uncover, both about each other and to do with what they found out in book #1.
In this instalment I really did connect more to the character of Seregil and I think, besides Lysander and Micum, he's my favourite in the book. I do really like Alec and there are moments I really love him, but Seregil is just such an interesting character and his thoughts about life and love intrigue me. Seregil also has the added bonus of a very long life to live and so he's been through much and he's still living and experiencing new things too...
What I did really like about this one is it felt a little more like a storyline rather than just happenstance. Sometimes in book #1 I felt as if the characters were just trundling along without too much *life-threatening* stuff forcing them into tricky situations. This book had a little more action and there was more to play for which meant it kept me interested and excited throughout.
Overall this is a very solid continuation and it again made me want to just keep going with the series (which I have done) so I would highly recommend it. Fantasy with bisexual characters and super fun plot...why, yes please! 4.5*s overall.
April 7, 2009
I like the characters, I do. They change and develope. I also like how Flewelling will revisit things, too, like the death of Alec's father. Things aren't just swept under the rug and I appreciate that.
I also appreciate how Seregil and Alec's relationship isn't the focus of the story that unfortunately happens too much in romance, especially homoerotica. The book is more dedicated to the story and in doing so, makes their relationship realistic and believable.
The biggest complaint I have is making the villians, well, too villianous. There's no semblance of humanity in them. They hunt, torture, kill and do little else. I was really hoping that there would be much more depth in her villians because I appreciate The Antagonist and a strong antagonist makes a stronger protagonist. However, these were bad, bad men and their actions seemed over-the-top, like she was trying to convince her reader of how nefarious they truly were. I ached to see instances of weakness, and quiet contemplation. Maybe even a relationship (non-romantic) form between her two leading villians. But unfortunately they struck me as flat, and although terrifying, remained uninteresting.
As a small note, Thero is becoming a fantastic character and I'm excited to see more of him in the next book.
I also appreciate how Seregil and Alec's relationship isn't the focus of the story that unfortunately happens too much in romance, especially homoerotica. The book is more dedicated to the story and in doing so, makes their relationship realistic and believable.
The biggest complaint I have is making the villians, well, too villianous. There's no semblance of humanity in them. They hunt, torture, kill and do little else. I was really hoping that there would be much more depth in her villians because I appreciate The Antagonist and a strong antagonist makes a stronger protagonist. However, these were bad, bad men and their actions seemed over-the-top, like she was trying to convince her reader of how nefarious they truly were. I ached to see instances of weakness, and quiet contemplation. Maybe even a relationship (non-romantic) form between her two leading villians. But unfortunately they struck me as flat, and although terrifying, remained uninteresting.
As a small note, Thero is becoming a fantastic character and I'm excited to see more of him in the next book.
April 27, 2020
I loved Luck in the Shadows, but for me this book was on a whole other level. Stalking Darkness took us to new places in this world and the relationships grew even more. Seregil and Alec's in particular was perfect, their banter, fights and reconciliations. Here, we see their relationship move to another level, where in the first book it was just hinted at.
The plot was strong; striking a nice balance with the characters. The stakes are also higher making the story more intense.
I'm really looking forward reading Traitor's Moon, I miss Seregil and Alec already! (Do they have a ship name? Serec, Alegil?)
The plot was strong; striking a nice balance with the characters. The stakes are also higher making the story more intense.
I'm really looking forward reading Traitor's Moon, I miss Seregil and Alec already! (Do they have a ship name? Serec, Alegil?)
May 12, 2021
4.5 stars
Better than the first book, imo. There was more character development, more nail-biting tension and adventure, and finally, some romance between Alec and Seregil! ❤️ That drama at the end, though! 🙄 Not that I didn’t feel for Seregil — I love the guy — but that was a bit much.
Better than the first book, imo. There was more character development, more nail-biting tension and adventure, and finally, some romance between Alec and Seregil! ❤️ That drama at the end, though! 🙄 Not that I didn’t feel for Seregil — I love the guy — but that was a bit much.
September 8, 2015
Struggling to finish now that I've read past the magic rape scene. Nary a word is being said in the aftermath, except that our MC feels dirty. Okay, so what now? Is anybody else going to address it? Or is it okay because he did't say no, and he's male, and the woman was hot? Oh wait, he did say no, then yes, then "I don't know." That's when your partner should stop. Stoppity stop. And if you don't stop, someone should hit you in the face with a brick until you do. Friends don't let friends get magicked into sexual scenarios against their will. Especially when said friends are 16 year old virgins with dead parents. Hello.
April 11, 2023
4.5 stars
First, there were far less typos in this one than the previous one, and some of these errors are consistent, so they clearly made a choice that I just don't agree with, like choosing to put a space between " and ' when a character is quoting someone or something else. "'So and so said...'" should be how those are noted, not " 'So and so said...' " If I take those and other stylistic choices out, there are still more typos than I'd expect from a major publisher, but not enough to earn my "needs editing" shelf. Just barely though.
But onto the important things. I somehow forgot how much I adore Alec and Seregil, not to mention Nysander, Beka, Kari, Klia, and everyone else. Yes, even Thero, who makes some great strides here, though they were painful and cost him dearly. I don't remember if we learn why he made the choices he made in later books, so I'll stay mum on any theories for now so the first timers in my BR group can feel free to theorize. 😁
This book was painful for all our characters, Alec and Seregil especially. There's a point where the plot just tips over the incline and it's a rollercoaster ride from there to the end, and it's very hard to put down. But before that, we got to enjoy some laughs and good natured teasing at our clueless leads who can't figure out how they feel about certain things. It's very well done and realistic.
Flewelling doesn't pull any punches here, and this is a great conclusion to the larger events that were set up in book 1. Also, since there was less worldbuilding that needed to be done, the story flowed much more naturally and easily, without having to stop every so often to explain things to Alec/the reader.
Thanks for the fun BR, Rosa, Elena, Teal, and Moony!
First, there were far less typos in this one than the previous one, and some of these errors are consistent, so they clearly made a choice that I just don't agree with, like choosing to put a space between " and ' when a character is quoting someone or something else. "'So and so said...'" should be how those are noted, not " 'So and so said...' " If I take those and other stylistic choices out, there are still more typos than I'd expect from a major publisher, but not enough to earn my "needs editing" shelf. Just barely though.
But onto the important things. I somehow forgot how much I adore Alec and Seregil, not to mention Nysander, Beka, Kari, Klia, and everyone else. Yes, even Thero, who makes some great strides here, though they were painful and cost him dearly. I don't remember if we learn why he made the choices he made in later books, so I'll stay mum on any theories for now so the first timers in my BR group can feel free to theorize. 😁
This book was painful for all our characters, Alec and Seregil especially. There's a point where the plot just tips over the incline and it's a rollercoaster ride from there to the end, and it's very hard to put down. But before that, we got to enjoy some laughs and good natured teasing at our clueless leads who can't figure out how they feel about certain things. It's very well done and realistic.
Flewelling doesn't pull any punches here, and this is a great conclusion to the larger events that were set up in book 1. Also, since there was less worldbuilding that needed to be done, the story flowed much more naturally and easily, without having to stop every so often to explain things to Alec/the reader.
Thanks for the fun BR, Rosa, Elena, Teal, and Moony!
December 5, 2018
I just realized I forgot to add a whole bunch of Lynn's books to my shelf. WTF!
This is my favorite Alec & Seregil book; also the first one I read; also the one I read the most. Probably a good solid dozen times, if not more. It has all the right ingredients. A noble rogue, an innocent coming-of-age youth with a hidden streak of a rake, all sorts of sex, an ancient evil with some rather disgusting elements, magic, both good and dark and twisted, proper chase and adventure, warfare that is realistic and cruel, a colorful balance of main characters, wizards, geography, history, culture, hidden identities, court flair, and then some.
I think it's also better than Luck in the Shadows, because our two heroes are well established, and they are comfortable in their guise, wealth and modus operandi. The never-ending war between Skala and Plenimar serves an excellent backdrop to the story. As it turns out, Lynn writes in a style that could be defined as borderline-YA, however, she excels when she goes dark magic as she did in this book and the last installment (see my review).
In a way, it's the 90s Locke Lamore with a twist. Lynn definitely has a unique style and she did an all-male cast (in the true sense) way before it was popular in the fantasy genre, and not because it was needed, but because it gave her story a special depth and scale. You might find it naive at times, but then, it surprises you with sudden, unexpected, morbid delight.
Extremely recommended.
Nightrunners are back in town,
A hidden letter, a silken gown,
Blood in a bowl,
A piercing howl,
Seriamaius must not wear his crown.
Igor
This is my favorite Alec & Seregil book; also the first one I read; also the one I read the most. Probably a good solid dozen times, if not more. It has all the right ingredients. A noble rogue, an innocent coming-of-age youth with a hidden streak of a rake, all sorts of sex, an ancient evil with some rather disgusting elements, magic, both good and dark and twisted, proper chase and adventure, warfare that is realistic and cruel, a colorful balance of main characters, wizards, geography, history, culture, hidden identities, court flair, and then some.
I think it's also better than Luck in the Shadows, because our two heroes are well established, and they are comfortable in their guise, wealth and modus operandi. The never-ending war between Skala and Plenimar serves an excellent backdrop to the story. As it turns out, Lynn writes in a style that could be defined as borderline-YA, however, she excels when she goes dark magic as she did in this book and the last installment (see my review).
In a way, it's the 90s Locke Lamore with a twist. Lynn definitely has a unique style and she did an all-male cast (in the true sense) way before it was popular in the fantasy genre, and not because it was needed, but because it gave her story a special depth and scale. You might find it naive at times, but then, it surprises you with sudden, unexpected, morbid delight.
Extremely recommended.
Nightrunners are back in town,
A hidden letter, a silken gown,
Blood in a bowl,
A piercing howl,
Seriamaius must not wear his crown.
Igor
April 7, 2025
There was no need to put my babies through so much trauma we could have just let them sneak around being fun thieves but nooooo we had to make them save the world in all types of tragic and traumatic ways. They finally kiss at the end of this one though so a win is a win I guess
January 8, 2020
A fun second installment. I don't think this one was as strong for me, but it was still enjoyable.
CONTENT WARNING: (a list of topics)
Things that were great:
-The slow burn. It's nice seeing a friendship slowly advance.
-The stakes. Way higher!
-The drama. Once the drama started, goodness was it dramatic in all the best gothic ways.
Things that didn't work as well for me this go around:
-The pacing. The first half was veeery slow. I could tolerate it in the first book because it was essentially "magic school," but this was about how bored they were and what whores they wanted to try and people assaulting Alec in a way we're supposed to find funny because...he's a virile young man, I guess?
-The gore. Hoo boy. So, I actually like body horror, in that it makes me feel horrified without setting off panic attacks. But wowza this was a lot. I got it after the second or third torture scene, I don't think I needed more reminders.
-The plot. It was tenuous enough in the first book. This one more or less was along the lines of "it's destined, so this will all work out." Very gothic, but not the part of gothic romances that I actually like. Speaking of romance...
-Romance. Yeah, it's sweet and pretty well done to overcome my fears, but I just don't like 'em lol. Having a romance on the side, sure. Or having a book about falling in love, fine. Having one that keeps cropping up at weird times usually makes me switch gears too fast and I don't get the enjoyment of either the "d'aww" or the heart-pumping danger.
Also I think this is a great example of why I don't read series back-to-back. I probably would have rated this higher if I'd given myself a couple of months to be less enthusiastic about the last book. But I didn't, and I won't. Definitely worth continuing the series, but I made my hopes out of wax and flew them too close to the sun.
CONTENT WARNING: (a list of topics)
Things that were great:
-The slow burn. It's nice seeing a friendship slowly advance.
-The stakes. Way higher!
-The drama. Once the drama started, goodness was it dramatic in all the best gothic ways.
Things that didn't work as well for me this go around:
-The pacing. The first half was veeery slow. I could tolerate it in the first book because it was essentially "magic school," but this was about how bored they were and what whores they wanted to try and people assaulting Alec in a way we're supposed to find funny because...he's a virile young man, I guess?
-The gore. Hoo boy. So, I actually like body horror, in that it makes me feel horrified without setting off panic attacks. But wowza this was a lot. I got it after the second or third torture scene, I don't think I needed more reminders.
-The plot. It was tenuous enough in the first book. This one more or less was along the lines of "it's destined, so this will all work out." Very gothic, but not the part of gothic romances that I actually like. Speaking of romance...
-Romance. Yeah, it's sweet and pretty well done to overcome my fears, but I just don't like 'em lol. Having a romance on the side, sure. Or having a book about falling in love, fine. Having one that keeps cropping up at weird times usually makes me switch gears too fast and I don't get the enjoyment of either the "d'aww" or the heart-pumping danger.
Also I think this is a great example of why I don't read series back-to-back. I probably would have rated this higher if I'd given myself a couple of months to be less enthusiastic about the last book. But I didn't, and I won't. Definitely worth continuing the series, but I made my hopes out of wax and flew them too close to the sun.
August 8, 2017
The heartbreaking and thrilling conclusion to the story started in Luck in the Shadows, and whoo boy, does it not disappoint!
It has a little bit of everything: Necromancy, strange rituals to try and bring back evil gods, heartbreak, true love, heroic sacrifices and some good, good kisses.
Really, it's everything I wanted and so much more. It gives us the answer to the prophecy that has haunted the story since the first book, and the answer is... not excellent. In fact it broke my heart. Very, very much. I finished this book and then I spent a day in a sort of daze, where I just felt numb. I was that ruined.
It's not only that it's heartbreaking, it's that it's so well written. This series is not perfect, not at all, but Lynn Flewelling has seriously poured some heart and soul into it, into the universe, the characters and the story she hopes to tell. And it shows. It shows in the way I got attached to these characters lightning quick, and the way I breathlessly prayed they'd all make it out alive.
The intense desire I felt for them to be okay, to be happy, to be together, is honestly the most compelling thing about these books. As much as I love the world and the plot, it's the characters that draw me back in. This bond they share that goes beyond mere friendship and romance. It takes different shapes between each of them, but it's unbreakable.
It's what gives the series heart.
I was completely and utterly blown away by this story and the conclusion to the things Flewelling started in the first book. These two can be read on their own, but I'm still extremely excited to return to the series and Alec and Seregil.
Anyway, all this to say: Read this series. It's great. It's excellent. It's all blades and swagger and roguish charms. With a little dash of magic, saving the world and true love. I'm still head over heels for it.
It has a little bit of everything: Necromancy, strange rituals to try and bring back evil gods, heartbreak, true love, heroic sacrifices and some good, good kisses.
Really, it's everything I wanted and so much more. It gives us the answer to the prophecy that has haunted the story since the first book, and the answer is... not excellent. In fact it broke my heart. Very, very much. I finished this book and then I spent a day in a sort of daze, where I just felt numb. I was that ruined.
It's not only that it's heartbreaking, it's that it's so well written. This series is not perfect, not at all, but Lynn Flewelling has seriously poured some heart and soul into it, into the universe, the characters and the story she hopes to tell. And it shows. It shows in the way I got attached to these characters lightning quick, and the way I breathlessly prayed they'd all make it out alive.
The intense desire I felt for them to be okay, to be happy, to be together, is honestly the most compelling thing about these books. As much as I love the world and the plot, it's the characters that draw me back in. This bond they share that goes beyond mere friendship and romance. It takes different shapes between each of them, but it's unbreakable.
It's what gives the series heart.
I was completely and utterly blown away by this story and the conclusion to the things Flewelling started in the first book. These two can be read on their own, but I'm still extremely excited to return to the series and Alec and Seregil.
Anyway, all this to say: Read this series. It's great. It's excellent. It's all blades and swagger and roguish charms. With a little dash of magic, saving the world and true love. I'm still head over heels for it.
April 30, 2021
I was reading this book for so long (I think on and off for 9 months), so it's been one of those books that has been lingering on my 'currently reading' shelf for an enormous amount of time. That's really on me though because I did/do really enjoy these characters.
After finishing the first book, I was eager to find out what Alec, Seregil, Micum, and Nysander would get mixed up with next, and I was not disappointed. A lot happens in the installment, and it all leads to this big climactic ending. I really enjoy following these characters, and I get all fuzzy inside when they show how much love they have for each other. I'm a sucker for found families, and these characters are definitely that.
In this book, we get a lot of perspective from Beka (sp?), Micum's eldest daughter. She's now a part of a war regiment, so we get to see some skirmishes between Skala and their enemies. I will say that I wasn't as interested in these chapters just because she's there on her own. Her comrades are fine, but I didn't bother remembering their names because they might die and I didn't find them all that important. If Beka had had some more emotional ties or engaging interactions with those around her, I may have found her parts more interesting.
There is also a rape that happens toward the beginning of the book, and it's not really addressed. Our main lad, Alec, get's sexually assaulted by a woman. The other characters are annoyed, but they don't actually hold the rapist accountable which was really odd, especially odd for Seregil.
This book is slow-paced for the most part which probably contributed to why it took me so long to finish. I think if the ending wasn't so exciting and rewarding, I probably would have rated this a little lower, but as it is, the ending really saved this one for me. I actually am really looking forward to the next installment because I think it will be a whole different playing field after this book.
After finishing the first book, I was eager to find out what Alec, Seregil, Micum, and Nysander would get mixed up with next, and I was not disappointed. A lot happens in the installment, and it all leads to this big climactic ending. I really enjoy following these characters, and I get all fuzzy inside when they show how much love they have for each other. I'm a sucker for found families, and these characters are definitely that.
In this book, we get a lot of perspective from Beka (sp?), Micum's eldest daughter. She's now a part of a war regiment, so we get to see some skirmishes between Skala and their enemies. I will say that I wasn't as interested in these chapters just because she's there on her own. Her comrades are fine, but I didn't bother remembering their names because they might die and I didn't find them all that important. If Beka had had some more emotional ties or engaging interactions with those around her, I may have found her parts more interesting.
There is also a rape that happens toward the beginning of the book, and it's not really addressed. Our main lad, Alec, get's sexually assaulted by a woman. The other characters are annoyed, but they don't actually hold the rapist accountable which was really odd, especially odd for Seregil.
This book is slow-paced for the most part which probably contributed to why it took me so long to finish. I think if the ending wasn't so exciting and rewarding, I probably would have rated this a little lower, but as it is, the ending really saved this one for me. I actually am really looking forward to the next installment because I think it will be a whole different playing field after this book.
March 12, 2023
Fue con estos libros que me enamoré de la fantasía, lo raro es que es una fantasía que actualmente no disfruto tanto, de esa que se toma su tiempo para desarrollar las cosas y que no destaca por la acción, sino por el cómo y el por qué.
Seregil siempre será mi icon bi #01.
Seregil siempre será mi icon bi #01.
April 14, 2023
4.5 stars. A wonderful story, full of great characters, mystery, and adventure. I was engaged start to finish, and I appreciated the vivid storytelling. The author didn't pull any punches and it all fit together really well. It wasn't perfect imo — it had at least a couple of plot holes and definitely could have used tighter proofreading — but nothing that kept me from loving it.
Note: there's a reason I don't call my m-m shelf "m-m-romance." There's an m-m relationship here but it's not a Romance™, so align expectations accordingly!
Note: there's a reason I don't call my m-m shelf "m-m-romance." There's an m-m relationship here but it's not a Romance™, so align expectations accordingly!
June 10, 2012
I've just got to chapter 8 of this book, and I'm furious. Imagine a naive and starstruck 16 year old being drugged and then raped. Not very funny is it? That is of course, unless that 16yo is a boy, and he's being raped by a sexy older women. Then it's hilarious, and geewhiz, isn't he glad he finally got rid of that pesky virginity?? No. Fuck that shit, and fuck this book.
October 29, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up because I really liked how the ending delivered. I’ll keep reading the series.
Sometimes total despair was the best substitute for hope.
Sometimes total despair was the best substitute for hope.
April 11, 2023
A great conclusion to the first two books’ story arc. Despite the author not pulling her punches in this one, the story is very readable and I really liked the characterization—
I could’ve done without the . There were also a couple of plot holes, but they can be easily overlooked, taking into account the whole plot.
This isn’t romance, so don’t expect one as you would in a romance series with a fantasy plot, but Alec and Seregil’s relationship is still one of the best things in the series, even with the
It goes without saying that the BR made it even better. 😊
I could’ve done without the . There were also a couple of plot holes, but they can be easily overlooked, taking into account the whole plot.
This isn’t romance, so don’t expect one as you would in a romance series with a fantasy plot, but Alec and Seregil’s relationship is still one of the best things in the series, even with the
It goes without saying that the BR made it even better. 😊
April 8, 2023
The wheel of fortune started to move in the first book and now war is starting to take its toll in people and country. In this uncertain environment our heroes are involved in something that could destroy the world they know. In this book you see how Alec grows and matures without Seregil protection and how Seregil despite himself, has to accept an unwanted fate. Flewelling has here a very good narration pace. The book starts more or less where we stop in the first one and at first you think this is another Skalan intrigue, but as you move towards the end the things start to complicate more and more. She shows us the narration from the point of view of different characters and you'll dread to turn the pages because you don't know what is going to happen next.
April 26, 2021
This series is so underrated, more people need read 'cause it's so good. Some people have problem with the plotting stuff in the first book but it didn't really bothered me so I think it's great. But this one is so much better than the first one(plot-wise,pacing).
Seregil and Alec are such great characters and don't forget about Micum, I think he deserves more love. Another one is Beka, she's such a badass I love it. It's really rare to see characters like her especially when it was first published.
To be honest I thought the stuff that happened in this book would happen in the third one 'cause it feel like the final boss fight. So I'm really curious to see what happens in the next book.
I didn't really care for the whole sacrifice thing but the ending scene made me cry (Ｔ▽Ｔ). I'm really excited to see were their adventures takes them next.
Seregil and Alec are such great characters and don't forget about Micum, I think he deserves more love. Another one is Beka, she's such a badass I love it. It's really rare to see characters like her especially when it was first published.
To be honest I thought the stuff that happened in this book would happen in the third one 'cause it feel like the final boss fight. So I'm really curious to see what happens in the next book.
I didn't really care for the whole sacrifice thing but the ending scene made me cry (Ｔ▽Ｔ). I'm really excited to see were their adventures takes them next.
May 18, 2025
3.5⭐️
May 9, 2025
Exponentially more exciting than the first book (and more gay), the difference is striking. My expectations were blown out of the water.
I'm not saying there was a Red Wedding, but there was at least a Pink Betrothal.
Favorite phrase from the book: Nightmare lizard (referring to an ancient, immortal necromancer.)
I'm not saying there was a Red Wedding, but there was at least a Pink Betrothal.
Favorite phrase from the book: Nightmare lizard (referring to an ancient, immortal necromancer.)
February 12, 2020
i lost actual sleep just so i could consume this book at an ungodly speed and i don't regret it one bit tbh
stalking darkness takes everything established in the first book and cranks up it to 100. the characters become more developed, lingering plot threads are revisited or resolved, the world becomes grittier and much darker. the amount of mutual pining between alec and seregil just about killed me. while stalking darkness is well-paced and interesting throughout, the last 30%ish was soooo intense i just couldn't put it down and it's what made me have to give it a 5 star rating. the use of different pov's was excellent, and i really liked how flewelling used this as a clever way to reveal a few things, but keep us in the dark about others. i think it's hard to pull that off in a way that works, and i feel how it all ended up coming together was extremely satisfying!
the ending was totally not what i thought was going to happen whatsoever and while i want to devour the next book asap, i think i need to take a tiny break for my own insanity. but if the other 5 installments are going to be anything like this, i dont see myself taking a long time in finishing this series at all!
stalking darkness takes everything established in the first book and cranks up it to 100. the characters become more developed, lingering plot threads are revisited or resolved, the world becomes grittier and much darker. the amount of mutual pining between alec and seregil just about killed me. while stalking darkness is well-paced and interesting throughout, the last 30%ish was soooo intense i just couldn't put it down and it's what made me have to give it a 5 star rating. the use of different pov's was excellent, and i really liked how flewelling used this as a clever way to reveal a few things, but keep us in the dark about others. i think it's hard to pull that off in a way that works, and i feel how it all ended up coming together was extremely satisfying!
the ending was totally not what i thought was going to happen whatsoever and while i want to devour the next book asap, i think i need to take a tiny break for my own insanity. but if the other 5 installments are going to be anything like this, i dont see myself taking a long time in finishing this series at all!
November 28, 2011
Ok srsly guys, who took my homoerotic devil-may-care caperfic and replaced it with melodramatic fantasy yaoi? D: D: And I have nothing AGAINST fantasy yaoi melodrama, I am all FOR melodramatic fantasy yaoi; but I need mental preparation for the shift from "We are snarky lovable rogues who steal things and touch each other in good dirty ways!" to "We are in secret ethereally beautiful, angstily immortal elves with magically prophesied destinies who weep as we kiss in the moonlight, stroking each other's glossy hair!"
October 8, 2019
I still don't like the narrator voice. Alec continues to sound weird, and sometimes he made the wrong voice to the wrong character which is confusing and annoying. But this series is one of my all times favourite, this brought back to me the joy of reading after a hard time, so I refuse to give it less than 5 stars. Bear with me.
Read
April 23, 2022DNF 50%
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