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Kyndred #2
Dreamveil
View our feature on Lynn Viehl’s Dreamveil.From the New York Times bestselling author
Rowan Dietrich grew up on the streets. Now she's out to start anew, find a job-and keep her identity as a Kyndred secret, as well as her ability to "dreamveil" herself into the object of others' desires.
But Rowan isn't using her gift when world-class chef Jean-Marc Dansant is stricken by her beauty and strength. And when dark secrets from her past threaten her new life and love, Rowan realizes she can't run forever...
Rowan Dietrich grew up on the streets. Now she's out to start anew, find a job-and keep her identity as a Kyndred secret, as well as her ability to "dreamveil" herself into the object of others' desires.
But Rowan isn't using her gift when world-class chef Jean-Marc Dansant is stricken by her beauty and strength. And when dark secrets from her past threaten her new life and love, Rowan realizes she can't run forever...
312 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
21 people are currently reading
957 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Viehl
54 books986 followersAlso see S.L. Viehl, Gena Hale, Jessica Hall. Rebecca Kelly.
She writes mostly novels in a variety of genres and under several pseudonyms. Among them are science fiction (as S. L. Viehl), romantic fiction (as Lynn Viehl, Gena Hale, and Jessica Hall), and Christian fiction (as Rebecca Kelly). She has described herself as primarily a writer of romance: no matter what genre she is working in, an element of romance will always be present.
In what spare time remains she enjoys quilting, reading, cooking, painting, and knitting. She currently lives with her family in Florida.
She writes mostly novels in a variety of genres and under several pseudonyms. Among them are science fiction (as S. L. Viehl), romantic fiction (as Lynn Viehl, Gena Hale, and Jessica Hall), and Christian fiction (as Rebecca Kelly). She has described herself as primarily a writer of romance: no matter what genre she is working in, an element of romance will always be present.
In what spare time remains she enjoys quilting, reading, cooking, painting, and knitting. She currently lives with her family in Florida.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
December 10, 2010
Dreamveil wraps a mystery in a mystery and ties it with a mystery bow, LOL. Everything's a mystery: heroine Rowan's powers, the identity of her accomplices, the identities of the villains, the hero, this homeless girl...
You get the picture. Dreamveil engaged my curiosity at every turn. We know nothing more than Rowan Dietrich when we're in her head, and Rowan doesn't suddenly explain her origins to herself. I love that about Viehl's works, along with her tight, eminently readable, breakneck pace. Despite the knowledge her characters unintentionally drop in their scheming (e.g. "Men loved to fuck women they despised; it was their favorite way of settling accounts and exerting dominance"), her narratives read distinctly subjective. Viehl maintains voice. Every character doesn't suddenly spew the heroine's sarcasm like a scene out of the Exorcist.
Plus, she commits to the villain when writing him. Her villains meet no stereotype (and may I say I'm enjoying the corporate backstabbing in GenHance). Mystery thriller material, they're exaggerations of real life criminals and vices, scary and devious. She's unafraid to exploit the springy supernatural ground she's planted, sets herself no boundaries.
I mean it. Villains are depraved, coworkers are bigots and misogynists, the sex's hot, edgy, heroes and heroines cuss (thank you! If I see darn one more time in a paranormal romance...) Her style's point-blank, tossing all in your face and moving on cool as you please. I dare anyone not to get shocked reading her books. Maybe we don't expect these elements in a romance; we're not supposed to talk about these in a polite romance. I'm glad this is not a polite romance.
Viehl's lack of boundaries means her characters have all kinds of wacky powers that can't be ordered in an Excel sheet- it means there are twists.
In this case, the twist didn't work for me. Viehl developed the romance much more in Dreamveil than in previous works, including the first book in this series, Shadowlight . Dreamveil's meatier in every respect. I loved Sean. For the first time, a guy's dialogue was believable. He didn't say, "Ay me! I should perish from this love, my darling dear! Would you like roses with that?" I love that he communicates his feelings in a real fashion. He was gruff, and he was beautiful. There's a Romeo too, if you like that, don't worry.
Dreamveil's twist makes Jane's ending in Lover Unbound look like peanuts and disappointed me, but I loved this mystery thriller/PNR up to that point- basically everything except the resolution of the romance and the hero's big reveal. Let us say, it's an alternative lifestyle they'll lead.
That won't stop me from reading the next book because I love her work! Read if you like mysteries, and you can handle all 'a this! *circles hand* Series best read in order. It's easier to follow and consume happily, and don't you want to be there when characters are introduced?
PS. There's a French-English glossary, you whiners, LOL.
You get the picture. Dreamveil engaged my curiosity at every turn. We know nothing more than Rowan Dietrich when we're in her head, and Rowan doesn't suddenly explain her origins to herself. I love that about Viehl's works, along with her tight, eminently readable, breakneck pace. Despite the knowledge her characters unintentionally drop in their scheming (e.g. "Men loved to fuck women they despised; it was their favorite way of settling accounts and exerting dominance"), her narratives read distinctly subjective. Viehl maintains voice. Every character doesn't suddenly spew the heroine's sarcasm like a scene out of the Exorcist.
Plus, she commits to the villain when writing him. Her villains meet no stereotype (and may I say I'm enjoying the corporate backstabbing in GenHance). Mystery thriller material, they're exaggerations of real life criminals and vices, scary and devious. She's unafraid to exploit the springy supernatural ground she's planted, sets herself no boundaries.
I mean it. Villains are depraved, coworkers are bigots and misogynists, the sex's hot, edgy, heroes and heroines cuss (thank you! If I see darn one more time in a paranormal romance...) Her style's point-blank, tossing all in your face and moving on cool as you please. I dare anyone not to get shocked reading her books. Maybe we don't expect these elements in a romance; we're not supposed to talk about these in a polite romance. I'm glad this is not a polite romance.
Viehl's lack of boundaries means her characters have all kinds of wacky powers that can't be ordered in an Excel sheet- it means there are twists.
In this case, the twist didn't work for me. Viehl developed the romance much more in Dreamveil than in previous works, including the first book in this series, Shadowlight . Dreamveil's meatier in every respect. I loved Sean. For the first time, a guy's dialogue was believable. He didn't say, "Ay me! I should perish from this love, my darling dear! Would you like roses with that?" I love that he communicates his feelings in a real fashion. He was gruff, and he was beautiful. There's a Romeo too, if you like that, don't worry.
Dreamveil's twist makes Jane's ending in Lover Unbound look like peanuts and disappointed me, but I loved this mystery thriller/PNR up to that point- basically everything except the resolution of the romance and the hero's big reveal. Let us say, it's an alternative lifestyle they'll lead.
That won't stop me from reading the next book because I love her work! Read if you like mysteries, and you can handle all 'a this! *circles hand* Series best read in order. It's easier to follow and consume happily, and don't you want to be there when characters are introduced?
PS. There's a French-English glossary, you whiners, LOL.
June 16, 2010
Having escaped an abusive home and her life as a teen on the streets, Rowan had vowed never to return to New York. But starting over once again, Rowan is just passing through when an accident strands her amid the ghosts of her past and lands her on the doorstep of Jean-Marc Dusant's exclusive restaurant and, somehow, Rowan finds herself ensconced in an apartment above the restaurant, with a muscular yet grumpy neighbor and a with a job working for the gorgeous Frenchman.
Reader's who didn't read Shadowlight will likely have to endure a bit of head scratching in Viehl's second entry in her Kyndred spinoff even if they are familiar with Viehl's Darkyn universe. Probably the most crucial knowledge that newcomers to the series will be missing are: first, the genetically altered Rowan's gift, and her curse, is that when she's touched by a man, Rowan 'shifts' into the image of his true love. And, second, that after years of unrequited love, Rowan holds out little hope that one day someone will `see' the real her. Since it is Rowan's turn in the spotlight and there's always a short romance at the heart of the books in Veil's series, we're counting on Rowan finding that man. But who will it be? The enthralling master Chef Jean-Marc Dusant or the cranky mechanic/bounty hunter Sean Meridan? I'm not telling, though I have to say that resolution to this love triangle was truly original and I loved the story even though I wished that Rowan's part of the book had been just a bit longer, because a bit more angst over making her choice would have made the ending even better.
The chemistry between Rowan and each of the men is good, but it is hard to decide who to root for - both men have moments where they overpower Rowan (mentally or physically, even though she does want them). A good part of what made the story so enjoyable for me was that I really liked Rowan a great deal. She has a sense of humor, is very straightforward in dealing with both men, and is quick to pursue misunderstandings. Along with Rowen, I also enjoyed the `flavor' that Rowan's time working in Dusant's kitchen added to the story.
Rounding out the book, there were a few cameos of other Kyndred and some movement in the background Genhance story arc along with a very brief appearance by Darkyn stars Alex and Michael to drop a clue to Dusant's past. Though this series still has a touch of darkness to it, now that the enemies are evil scientists instead of religious fanatics, there's not a lot of the lingering torture scenes which made me squirm with the Darkyn books. I like Viehl's Kyndred, even better than her Darkyn and I am very much looking forward to more of the Kyndred and the next book, Frostfire .
Reader's who didn't read Shadowlight will likely have to endure a bit of head scratching in Viehl's second entry in her Kyndred spinoff even if they are familiar with Viehl's Darkyn universe. Probably the most crucial knowledge that newcomers to the series will be missing are: first, the genetically altered Rowan's gift, and her curse, is that when she's touched by a man, Rowan 'shifts' into the image of his true love. And, second, that after years of unrequited love, Rowan holds out little hope that one day someone will `see' the real her. Since it is Rowan's turn in the spotlight and there's always a short romance at the heart of the books in Veil's series, we're counting on Rowan finding that man. But who will it be? The enthralling master Chef Jean-Marc Dusant or the cranky mechanic/bounty hunter Sean Meridan? I'm not telling, though I have to say that resolution to this love triangle was truly original and I loved the story even though I wished that Rowan's part of the book had been just a bit longer, because a bit more angst over making her choice would have made the ending even better.
The chemistry between Rowan and each of the men is good, but it is hard to decide who to root for - both men have moments where they overpower Rowan (mentally or physically, even though she does want them). A good part of what made the story so enjoyable for me was that I really liked Rowan a great deal. She has a sense of humor, is very straightforward in dealing with both men, and is quick to pursue misunderstandings. Along with Rowen, I also enjoyed the `flavor' that Rowan's time working in Dusant's kitchen added to the story.
Rounding out the book, there were a few cameos of other Kyndred and some movement in the background Genhance story arc along with a very brief appearance by Darkyn stars Alex and Michael to drop a clue to Dusant's past. Though this series still has a touch of darkness to it, now that the enemies are evil scientists instead of religious fanatics, there's not a lot of the lingering torture scenes which made me squirm with the Darkyn books. I like Viehl's Kyndred, even better than her Darkyn and I am very much looking forward to more of the Kyndred and the next book, Frostfire .
May 31, 2016
At 70%+ the hammer fell (on my head, in the novel this happened later near the end). I couldn't believe it. It does take some guts to make this kind of choice in a romance novel. But then one of the reasons I love her books is they are so unconventional. Mostly UF with a big plot extending along novels, with some romantic thread.A choral work.
August 27, 2011
One of our GR buddies mentioned one time how difficult it is to write reviews for books you feel gushy about. If you havent noticed, I too have a difficult time writing reviews for books I consider 5 star- if you care to take a gander at some of my five starred reviews, more than one has "review to come".
I have good intentions to get back to them- because I'm always just stumped to put into words why I liked it so immediately after- but I just cant seem to manage it because, really, what's there to say? What do you say about something you srsly adored without sounding like a third grader??
"I really really liked this book. it made me happy. I like Rowan. I think she is cool and want to be like her when I grow up."
See you cant pen reviews like that?
But for you, I'll try. Rowan, the heroine in this novel and whom we got to meet in the first novel of the Kyndred, has an interesting talent, but she honestly didnt use it much in her story. I'm ok with that- and you'll see why when you read the book. Her unique talent, as all Kyndred have btw, was however a catalyst for the plot of this tale which is so clever of the author to keep it in there without it having take over the story. What I like best about her was the fact she was a fighter, independent and real- despite her bizarre world.
I LOVED the hero- which unfortunately I cant say too much about because it would be a major spoiler. I was utterly lost on what the heck was going on with that until I finally cheated and peeked- yaknowwhat? sue me- and the twist was so much fun I got a girlcrush on this author all over again.
Suffice to say Dreamveil was so good- I dont know why all fans of UF/PNR are not reading this series... If you gave up halfway thru the first Darkyn novel (If Angels Burn), which the Kyndred series is spun off from- try again, you wimp. Believe me, you'll be glad you listened to ol Zeek, because the original series gets better and better as it goes and the continuation starting with Shadowlight? Even better.
Srsly. Just start the series.
(and for you gals that need some hot luvins in their books...there is indeed that in this series! :P)
I have good intentions to get back to them- because I'm always just stumped to put into words why I liked it so immediately after- but I just cant seem to manage it because, really, what's there to say? What do you say about something you srsly adored without sounding like a third grader??
"I really really liked this book. it made me happy. I like Rowan. I think she is cool and want to be like her when I grow up."
See you cant pen reviews like that?
But for you, I'll try. Rowan, the heroine in this novel and whom we got to meet in the first novel of the Kyndred, has an interesting talent, but she honestly didnt use it much in her story. I'm ok with that- and you'll see why when you read the book. Her unique talent, as all Kyndred have btw, was however a catalyst for the plot of this tale which is so clever of the author to keep it in there without it having take over the story. What I like best about her was the fact she was a fighter, independent and real- despite her bizarre world.
I LOVED the hero- which unfortunately I cant say too much about because it would be a major spoiler. I was utterly lost on what the heck was going on with that until I finally cheated and peeked- yaknowwhat? sue me- and the twist was so much fun I got a girlcrush on this author all over again.
Suffice to say Dreamveil was so good- I dont know why all fans of UF/PNR are not reading this series... If you gave up halfway thru the first Darkyn novel (If Angels Burn), which the Kyndred series is spun off from- try again, you wimp. Believe me, you'll be glad you listened to ol Zeek, because the original series gets better and better as it goes and the continuation starting with Shadowlight? Even better.
Srsly. Just start the series.
(and for you gals that need some hot luvins in their books...there is indeed that in this series! :P)
July 8, 2010
I enjoyed Viehl's Darkyn series, but think she has gotten very creative with her Kyndred series. She has such wonderful characters and an amazing story. I wish she would do another book with the same main characters so I can see how their unique romance develops. I highly recommend both series for pnr fans.
June 16, 2010
4.5 stars: Fast paced roller coaster of a story with many twists and turns!
In Shadowlight the first book in the series, we learned that years ago evil scientists conducted genetic experiments on orphans, resulting in those kids growing up to be different--with unique powers. They are known as the Kyndred. As adults, a few of them formed a secret group, so they could talk to others of their kind. But that's when they found out the scientists were not gone--the GenHance scientists want to kill them and harvest their powers. We met Rowan Dietrich, a Kyndred who was trying to save other Kyndred who were targeted. When she touches a man, her ability enables her to shift into the image of his ideal woman--his true love. Rowan had a hard life growing up. She was in an abusive home and lived on the streets for three years after running away.
At the start of Dreamveil, she is just moving back to New York when her motorcycle crashes behind Marc Dansant's restaurant. He comes to her rescue, helping her to clean her wounds. She takes a job at his restaurant and moves temporarily into the apartment over the restaurant, until she can earn some funds and get her bike repaired. Sean Meriden lives in the other apartment above the restaurant. Sean owns a garage and agrees to repair her bike. But there's a lot more to Marc and Sean than what they first appear. There are a lot of intricate plot twists in this book from the mystery of why Marc has exactly the same face as Michael Cyprien to a search for a missing girl to undercover operatives and of course the bad guy from the first book is back--Jonah Genaro. The fast paced plot had so many twists and turns as well as some BIG SURPRISES towards the end.
I was very impressed by this book. It is some of the author's best work--definitely as good as the first Kyndred book and as good or better than the Darkyn books. The author did a great job of delivering a highly original storyline that was an engrossing mix of suspense, mystery, drama, action and romance. Like the first book, this book also had an intricate plot but it was handled more smoothly in this installment. The first book sometimes felt a bit choppy, and the pacing was better in book two. The only area for improvement was that I would have liked a little more focus on the relationship development.
It was good to see many characters again from the first book: Gavin, Jessa, and Andrew as well as met some interesting new ones like Paracelsus, another Kyndred, and Taine, the missing girl--also a Kyndred. It was also nice to see Alex and Michael, the main characters from the Darkyn series. Although I enjoyed the intrigue and action, I also enjoyed all the scenes when Rowen was working with the chefs in the fancy french restaurant. I'm not a big cook, but it was fun to get a behind the scenes look at the workings of a high end restaurant.
You need to read the first Kyndred book Shadowlight before this one. The author wrote a Darkyn series before this one, and some of the Darkyn characters have roles in this series. You don't have to read Darkyn, however it would help with your understanding of the characters and storyline to read the Darkyn books before starting the Kyndred series.
In Shadowlight the first book in the series, we learned that years ago evil scientists conducted genetic experiments on orphans, resulting in those kids growing up to be different--with unique powers. They are known as the Kyndred. As adults, a few of them formed a secret group, so they could talk to others of their kind. But that's when they found out the scientists were not gone--the GenHance scientists want to kill them and harvest their powers. We met Rowan Dietrich, a Kyndred who was trying to save other Kyndred who were targeted. When she touches a man, her ability enables her to shift into the image of his ideal woman--his true love. Rowan had a hard life growing up. She was in an abusive home and lived on the streets for three years after running away.
At the start of Dreamveil, she is just moving back to New York when her motorcycle crashes behind Marc Dansant's restaurant. He comes to her rescue, helping her to clean her wounds. She takes a job at his restaurant and moves temporarily into the apartment over the restaurant, until she can earn some funds and get her bike repaired. Sean Meriden lives in the other apartment above the restaurant. Sean owns a garage and agrees to repair her bike. But there's a lot more to Marc and Sean than what they first appear. There are a lot of intricate plot twists in this book from the mystery of why Marc has exactly the same face as Michael Cyprien to a search for a missing girl to undercover operatives and of course the bad guy from the first book is back--Jonah Genaro. The fast paced plot had so many twists and turns as well as some BIG SURPRISES towards the end.
I was very impressed by this book. It is some of the author's best work--definitely as good as the first Kyndred book and as good or better than the Darkyn books. The author did a great job of delivering a highly original storyline that was an engrossing mix of suspense, mystery, drama, action and romance. Like the first book, this book also had an intricate plot but it was handled more smoothly in this installment. The first book sometimes felt a bit choppy, and the pacing was better in book two. The only area for improvement was that I would have liked a little more focus on the relationship development.
It was good to see many characters again from the first book: Gavin, Jessa, and Andrew as well as met some interesting new ones like Paracelsus, another Kyndred, and Taine, the missing girl--also a Kyndred. It was also nice to see Alex and Michael, the main characters from the Darkyn series. Although I enjoyed the intrigue and action, I also enjoyed all the scenes when Rowen was working with the chefs in the fancy french restaurant. I'm not a big cook, but it was fun to get a behind the scenes look at the workings of a high end restaurant.
You need to read the first Kyndred book Shadowlight before this one. The author wrote a Darkyn series before this one, and some of the Darkyn characters have roles in this series. You don't have to read Darkyn, however it would help with your understanding of the characters and storyline to read the Darkyn books before starting the Kyndred series.
June 9, 2010
Lynn Viehl can certainly tell a story (that was on the cover of the book, and I had to concur!). I am completely enamored in the world Lynn Viehl has created. It's simple, but actually completely complex. How's that for not making sense! I loved the Darkyn Novels. Her novels are not stand alone in my opinion. If you haven't followed the series from the beginning then you would definitely get lost. I love that about the books, if feels like one continual story with little "side stories" that eventually culminate to the ending and when it does you appreciate you stuck around for the wild ride.
I enjoyed Dreamveil much more than I did Shadowlight. It was very fast paced (or was that my reading? I couldn't put it down), the multiple storylines had me confused and second guessing what was going on almost up until the end. Rowan, Jean-Marc, and Sean - *swoon* That love triangle was the most original I've read. I fell for it, but then I started having my suspicions about halfway through. Much more important I was thrilled to see Michael and Alex again. I loved how Viehl kept them an important part of the Darkyn books and now she's brought them back for the Kyndred books! I hope we see them again in the next book. I also have a billion questions about the other characters left hanging. I hope to see them again and find out what the heck is going on! I've been sucked back into the Darkyn/Kyndred world and I want to see what happens next!
I enjoyed Dreamveil much more than I did Shadowlight. It was very fast paced (or was that my reading? I couldn't put it down), the multiple storylines had me confused and second guessing what was going on almost up until the end. Rowan, Jean-Marc, and Sean - *swoon* That love triangle was the most original I've read. I fell for it, but then I started having my suspicions about halfway through. Much more important I was thrilled to see Michael and Alex again. I loved how Viehl kept them an important part of the Darkyn books and now she's brought them back for the Kyndred books! I hope we see them again in the next book. I also have a billion questions about the other characters left hanging. I hope to see them again and find out what the heck is going on! I've been sucked back into the Darkyn/Kyndred world and I want to see what happens next!
July 10, 2010
I loved the Darkyn series, and after only two books about the Kyndred, I'm very taken with this series as well *OK, bad pun, since the Kyndred call themselves the Takyn, but I couldn't resist!* Genetic experiments have given unique skills to the Takyn, such as telekenesis. Rowan can 'dreamveil' - by touching someone, she can appear to be the person who is loved by the one touched, so it is understandable that she wants to find out if she's loved by the one she loves, and also understandable if she doesn't really want to find out. After all, in the first book, she dreamveiled and discovered she wasn't Matthias' love. Now she has two very different men to choose between - what will she do?!
February 22, 2019
awesome, like the others
June 30, 2013
The world that Lynn Viehl has created, with its melding of science and vampires, is not the easiest to wrap one's mind around, with all of its complexities and twists, but it is entirely original, and genuinely interesting in all respects. Beyond that, what makes this book stand out in the increasingly-crowded field of paranormal romance, is the actual romance. Viehl has created, and sufficiently developed, three main characters who are easy to root for, and compel a person to read on to find out what happens to them. There is the street-smart heroine Rowan, who is talented in some surprising ways, and who is quite strong, but is not the standard tough-as-nails heroine that has become commonplace - she has her vulnerabilities, and readers can relate to her, regardless of the things she has endured. Further, once she finds love, she embraces her feelings rather than fighting them tooth and nail (even though the situation is not without its fair share of complications). Then there is Sean, who is testosterone personified - a man of few words, who is all muscles and attitude. What he is not, however, is obnoxious and abrasive, because even though he's not an easy man to relate to and has more than a few rough edges, he is also a man of character, with a strong sense of right and wrong; he may not readily accept his feelings, but once he's forced to face them, he falls hard and is utterly devoted. Finally, there is Jean-Marc, who is gorgeous, elegant, and sophisticated beyond the telling of it. He is a man who (like Sean) has some huge secrets, but he doesn't let them lessen his enjoyment of life, or harden him to the joys of human interaction and emotions.
The connections between Rowan and Jean-Marc, and Rowan and Sean, are instantaneous and cannot be denied. Viehl has written a love triangle that avoids all of the usual cliches and pitfalls, while simultaneously reveling in an abundance of heat, passion, and genuine affection and caring. In fact, I found the relationships so compelling and sincere that they actually provided my one problem with the book - I wish more time had been devoted to these characters and their interactions with one another. Granted, Viehl had to juggle a fairly large cast of supporting characters and several different plotlines, and it is to her credit that sufficient time was devoted to all of them. I just wanted Rowan, Jean-Marc, and Sean to be featured a bit more.
One of the most captivating aspects of the book is Rowan's feelings for both men, and her struggle with the thought of having to choose one over the other. And it is here that Viehl truly impressed me - her resolution to the love triangle was inventive and creative, and like nothing I had ever read before. She deserves a lot of praise for that, in my view, because given the sheer amount of love triangles that have been tackled by writers, I thought that it would be impossible to break any kind of new ground. Happily, Viehl's talent and imagination proved me wrong. And then some. It takes a very special, talented writer to not only come up with all of these plots, but to ensure that they are always fresh and original. I highly recommend this book, and I am very much looking forward to the next installment in this series.
The connections between Rowan and Jean-Marc, and Rowan and Sean, are instantaneous and cannot be denied. Viehl has written a love triangle that avoids all of the usual cliches and pitfalls, while simultaneously reveling in an abundance of heat, passion, and genuine affection and caring. In fact, I found the relationships so compelling and sincere that they actually provided my one problem with the book - I wish more time had been devoted to these characters and their interactions with one another. Granted, Viehl had to juggle a fairly large cast of supporting characters and several different plotlines, and it is to her credit that sufficient time was devoted to all of them. I just wanted Rowan, Jean-Marc, and Sean to be featured a bit more.
One of the most captivating aspects of the book is Rowan's feelings for both men, and her struggle with the thought of having to choose one over the other. And it is here that Viehl truly impressed me - her resolution to the love triangle was inventive and creative, and like nothing I had ever read before. She deserves a lot of praise for that, in my view, because given the sheer amount of love triangles that have been tackled by writers, I thought that it would be impossible to break any kind of new ground. Happily, Viehl's talent and imagination proved me wrong. And then some. It takes a very special, talented writer to not only come up with all of these plots, but to ensure that they are always fresh and original. I highly recommend this book, and I am very much looking forward to the next installment in this series.
June 22, 2012
This second book in the Kyndred series focuses on Rowan.
We were introduced to Rowan in the previous book Shadowlight. Her special Kyndred ability allows her, at just a touch, to reach into someone's mind and find the vision of that person's true love -- past, present or future -- and then morph into that person. The upside to this ability is, holy cow she can shape shift. The downside is when she is with a guy she runs the risk of turning into someone else because the guy is fantasizing about the gal he really wants, not her. So, yeah, bummer.
Of course, you know the punchline to this joke. Once she touches a guy and doesn't turn into someone else then she is that guy's true love and thus he is the man for her.
In this book Rowan meets two potential true loves. One is the sexy French chef Jean-Marc Dasant. The other is the sexy, yet surly, PI Seam Meriden. One of the fun mysteries of the book is waiting to see which one she picks. A second mystery is who exactly is the missing girl PI Sean is looking for and how does she connect to Rowan?
But outside of Rowan's love triangle/missing persons plot there is a lot more going on in the book that progresses the series arc of the the people hunting the Kyndred. And by 'progresses' I mean gets crazier and more complicated. A new power player is introduced and then quickly removed. There are more shifting alliances than I can keep up with. And while Gennaro was set up as the Big Bad in the last book with his ginormous fortune and his ginormous genetics company this book has introduced some cracks in his armor. For one thing his employees are all plotting and counter plotting. You don't know who is really good or bad and it is kind of funny to watch and fun to speculate.
There is also an intriguing mystery that connects sexy chef Dansant and Michael Cyprien, thought neither one of them knows the other. Alexandra ran into the chef briefly thinking he was Michael. Their uncanny resemblance has Alex's Spidey senses tingling but she doesn't know who the stranger with her husband's face is and doesn't know how to find him. These near misses between our familiar Darkyn friends and these new Kyndred are killing me!
I liked this book more than the first one because I thought it balanced the action/Kyndred/Darkyn long arc plot much better with the focus on the central character and romance than the previous book did.
Not a book for a newbie to the Darkyn world, imo, but a great installment for long-time fans.
We were introduced to Rowan in the previous book Shadowlight. Her special Kyndred ability allows her, at just a touch, to reach into someone's mind and find the vision of that person's true love -- past, present or future -- and then morph into that person. The upside to this ability is, holy cow she can shape shift. The downside is when she is with a guy she runs the risk of turning into someone else because the guy is fantasizing about the gal he really wants, not her. So, yeah, bummer.
Of course, you know the punchline to this joke. Once she touches a guy and doesn't turn into someone else then she is that guy's true love and thus he is the man for her.
In this book Rowan meets two potential true loves. One is the sexy French chef Jean-Marc Dasant. The other is the sexy, yet surly, PI Seam Meriden. One of the fun mysteries of the book is waiting to see which one she picks. A second mystery is who exactly is the missing girl PI Sean is looking for and how does she connect to Rowan?
But outside of Rowan's love triangle/missing persons plot there is a lot more going on in the book that progresses the series arc of the the people hunting the Kyndred. And by 'progresses' I mean gets crazier and more complicated. A new power player is introduced and then quickly removed. There are more shifting alliances than I can keep up with. And while Gennaro was set up as the Big Bad in the last book with his ginormous fortune and his ginormous genetics company this book has introduced some cracks in his armor. For one thing his employees are all plotting and counter plotting. You don't know who is really good or bad and it is kind of funny to watch and fun to speculate.
There is also an intriguing mystery that connects sexy chef Dansant and Michael Cyprien, thought neither one of them knows the other. Alexandra ran into the chef briefly thinking he was Michael. Their uncanny resemblance has Alex's Spidey senses tingling but she doesn't know who the stranger with her husband's face is and doesn't know how to find him. These near misses between our familiar Darkyn friends and these new Kyndred are killing me!
I liked this book more than the first one because I thought it balanced the action/Kyndred/Darkyn long arc plot much better with the focus on the central character and romance than the previous book did.
Not a book for a newbie to the Darkyn world, imo, but a great installment for long-time fans.
January 31, 2015
This second installment of the Kyndred series was mindboggling. Even though you get a lot of action, angst, information etc., you still are kept in the dark about everything until the very last. Normally in a book you get some sort of clue, but not here. There are so many twists, turns, blind spots, dead ends and intersections in this storyline it’s hard to keep up. I had to go back at the end and reread some parts to be able to say ‘Oh, that’s what happened!’
I’m glad we get more background about Rowan, though it isn’t much. On her way to Chicago for a job, she makes what was supposed to a quick visit to her old haunts, but is literally stopped dead in her tracks and ends up staying. I love how her cooking skills follow her and are used in the story.
There are two men that come into Rowan’s life. Jean-Marc Dansart and Sean Meriden. Sean, though he comes of being a rough mechanic, definitely had a soft inside. While Dansant seemed like a benevolent, but mysterious gentleman, though if he was so worried about how the kitchen crew treated Rowan why he didn’t leave her alone when anyone of them could have walked in. Shows a distinct lack of propriety and professionalism.
I couldn’t make up my mind whether I liked Dansant or Sean better. I kept switching back and forth as one or the other did or said something good or bad. It seemed like the one that the scene was about was usually the good guy, but not always. In the end I understood why, but it makes my skin crawl. I wouldn’t want to be in Rowan’s position. I won’t ruin it but if you really pay attention to the explanation it’s really creepy. No way!
Taire is fascinating also. The descriptions of how she lived on the streets is very informative. She’s a very resourceful girl. I felt sorry for her at the end. Her tortured childhood combined with her ability really messed her up.
Quick Thoughts: 1)Seems like every series I read the main villain keeps getting sicker and sicker.
2)What is it with these snake tats on the guys? They each have slightly different one, but they are never really explained. Are they some sort of separate Kyndred or Darkyn branch? Or what?
3)GenHance is just riddled with double agents. Genaro is an incompetent idiot. I love reading the twists of the whole intrigue and I’m glad the good guys are winning.
4)Ms. Viehl gives Patricia Briggs’s new book/series a big plug.
Fave Scenes: Taire’s life at the hotel, the sauerkraut test, peaches & blackberries and Gerald King’s death.
I’m glad we get more background about Rowan, though it isn’t much. On her way to Chicago for a job, she makes what was supposed to a quick visit to her old haunts, but is literally stopped dead in her tracks and ends up staying. I love how her cooking skills follow her and are used in the story.
There are two men that come into Rowan’s life. Jean-Marc Dansart and Sean Meriden. Sean, though he comes of being a rough mechanic, definitely had a soft inside. While Dansant seemed like a benevolent, but mysterious gentleman, though if he was so worried about how the kitchen crew treated Rowan why he didn’t leave her alone when anyone of them could have walked in. Shows a distinct lack of propriety and professionalism.
I couldn’t make up my mind whether I liked Dansant or Sean better. I kept switching back and forth as one or the other did or said something good or bad. It seemed like the one that the scene was about was usually the good guy, but not always. In the end I understood why, but it makes my skin crawl. I wouldn’t want to be in Rowan’s position. I won’t ruin it but if you really pay attention to the explanation it’s really creepy. No way!
Taire is fascinating also. The descriptions of how she lived on the streets is very informative. She’s a very resourceful girl. I felt sorry for her at the end. Her tortured childhood combined with her ability really messed her up.
Quick Thoughts: 1)Seems like every series I read the main villain keeps getting sicker and sicker.
2)What is it with these snake tats on the guys? They each have slightly different one, but they are never really explained. Are they some sort of separate Kyndred or Darkyn branch? Or what?
3)GenHance is just riddled with double agents. Genaro is an incompetent idiot. I love reading the twists of the whole intrigue and I’m glad the good guys are winning.
4)Ms. Viehl gives Patricia Briggs’s new book/series a big plug.
Fave Scenes: Taire’s life at the hotel, the sauerkraut test, peaches & blackberries and Gerald King’s death.
January 21, 2011
Rowan Dietrich grew up on the streets. Now she's out to start anew, find a job-and keep her identity as a Kyndred secret, as well as her ability to "dreamveil" herself into the object of others' desires.
But Rowan isn't using her gift when world-class chef Jean-Marc Dansant is stricken by her beauty and strength. And when dark secrets from her past threaten her new life and love, Rowan realizes she can't run forever...
Lynn Viehl is one of only about a half dozen authors who are on my auto buy list without ever reading review one. While at first I didn’t think I would like the other half of the Darkyn series, Kyndred, as much as the first half of the series, this book totally convinced me it was a winner. While the Kyndred doesn’t have the rich historical focus that made me fall in love with this series back in 2005, this book has so many twists and turns that it has blown me away. I’ll think I have a thing or two figured out and Viehl’s storyline takes a whole other turn that makes me smile and shake my head with satisfaction. The mystery and suspense is worthy of several Patterson books I’ve read and definitely more entertaining. This is NOT a series that can be read out of order and why would you want to? The characters in this series have been superb and I loved the setting of this book in a French restaurant. I started this book late in the afternoon and did not lay it down until I finished the last word in it. I just picked up the next book “Frostfire” and am planning an all night read tomorrow night.
I list both series here because they go together as far as I'm concerned. You can't enjoy one without the other.
Darkyn
1. If Angels Burn (2005)
2. Private Demon (2005)
3. Dark Need (2006)
4. Night Lost (2007)
5. Evermore (2008)
6. Twilight Fall (2008)
7. Stay the Night (2009)
Kyndred
1. Shadowlight (2009)
2. Dreamveil (2010)
3. Frostfire (2011)
But Rowan isn't using her gift when world-class chef Jean-Marc Dansant is stricken by her beauty and strength. And when dark secrets from her past threaten her new life and love, Rowan realizes she can't run forever...
Lynn Viehl is one of only about a half dozen authors who are on my auto buy list without ever reading review one. While at first I didn’t think I would like the other half of the Darkyn series, Kyndred, as much as the first half of the series, this book totally convinced me it was a winner. While the Kyndred doesn’t have the rich historical focus that made me fall in love with this series back in 2005, this book has so many twists and turns that it has blown me away. I’ll think I have a thing or two figured out and Viehl’s storyline takes a whole other turn that makes me smile and shake my head with satisfaction. The mystery and suspense is worthy of several Patterson books I’ve read and definitely more entertaining. This is NOT a series that can be read out of order and why would you want to? The characters in this series have been superb and I loved the setting of this book in a French restaurant. I started this book late in the afternoon and did not lay it down until I finished the last word in it. I just picked up the next book “Frostfire” and am planning an all night read tomorrow night.
I list both series here because they go together as far as I'm concerned. You can't enjoy one without the other.
Darkyn
1. If Angels Burn (2005)
2. Private Demon (2005)
3. Dark Need (2006)
4. Night Lost (2007)
5. Evermore (2008)
6. Twilight Fall (2008)
7. Stay the Night (2009)
Kyndred
1. Shadowlight (2009)
2. Dreamveil (2010)
3. Frostfire (2011)
December 22, 2015
"Dreamveil" by Lynn Viehl. Book 2 in the Kyndred series.
I really loved this book! The love triangle between the main characters of Jean-Marc (Dansant), Sean (Meriden) and Rowan was so well done.
This book had me so confused! But I loved every minute of it. Ms. Viehl is so talented in making you think you have all the characters figured out and then WHAM, no one is who you think they are. I will say that some things are not explained to the fullest but you are given enough information to make your own conclusions about the mystery of the whole situation.
In this book, the leading female character is Rowan, who was introduced in the previous book. When she touches a man, she has the power to shift into the female love of his life. The problem for Rowan is that any man she thinks could be the one for her, if she uses her power on him, she'll know instantly if she shifts into someone else. But vise versa, if she doesn't shift, then that man really wants her for her. What are the odds that Rowan meets two men that want her? Well the odds are pretty good. Jean-Marc Dansant, a sophistocated French Chef, and Sean Meriden, a rough and rouged bounty hunter, both see only her when she used her powers on them. How is she to choose? Especially when she can't stay. The biotech company GenHance is after her...and they are not the only ones. Someone else is after her too.
OK....so I don't want to say to much more of what happens in this book but that's the overall romantic plotline. The chemistry between Rowan and Dansant/Rowan and Meriden (yes, the men are referred to by their last names throughout the book) was really steamy. As I said before, this book had been guessing and questioning the whole way through and I love when a book does that because it completely had my attention every minute. I didn't want to put this book down.
I can't wait to start the next book!
I really loved this book! The love triangle between the main characters of Jean-Marc (Dansant), Sean (Meriden) and Rowan was so well done.
This book had me so confused! But I loved every minute of it. Ms. Viehl is so talented in making you think you have all the characters figured out and then WHAM, no one is who you think they are. I will say that some things are not explained to the fullest but you are given enough information to make your own conclusions about the mystery of the whole situation.
In this book, the leading female character is Rowan, who was introduced in the previous book. When she touches a man, she has the power to shift into the female love of his life. The problem for Rowan is that any man she thinks could be the one for her, if she uses her power on him, she'll know instantly if she shifts into someone else. But vise versa, if she doesn't shift, then that man really wants her for her. What are the odds that Rowan meets two men that want her? Well the odds are pretty good. Jean-Marc Dansant, a sophistocated French Chef, and Sean Meriden, a rough and rouged bounty hunter, both see only her when she used her powers on them. How is she to choose? Especially when she can't stay. The biotech company GenHance is after her...and they are not the only ones. Someone else is after her too.
OK....so I don't want to say to much more of what happens in this book but that's the overall romantic plotline. The chemistry between Rowan and Dansant/Rowan and Meriden (yes, the men are referred to by their last names throughout the book) was really steamy. As I said before, this book had been guessing and questioning the whole way through and I love when a book does that because it completely had my attention every minute. I didn't want to put this book down.
I can't wait to start the next book!
January 27, 2011
Spoilers!!! Check out my blog: Escape by Fiction
Very good.
After the man she secretly loved for years fell in love with his "one", Rowan needed to get away. But Rowan isn't an ordinary girl - she's a Kyndred. She can change into a person's most beloved (female only) and is looking for the man she can be herself with. On her way to Boston, she makes a pit-stop in NYC and ends up getting stuck.
Dasant wasn't looking for love, but when he saw the woman who crashed her motorcycle in the alley of his restaurant, he felt something he never thought he'd feel. He wants her to stay. He tended her wounds, gave her a job, and offered her a place to stay (one of the two apartments above the restaurant). He knows she the one.
Sean lives in the other apartment above the restaurant. He's rude, surly and not interested. Slowly but surely, Rowan defrosts his icy heart and he falls a little more in love with her everyday. Not only do they share a love for Rowan, they share a secret that unbelievable.
So does Rowan - with both of them and she feels so guilty about it, she's willing to walk away form it all. After a major conflict with the baddie of the story, Rowan learns Dasant and Sean secret. They are the same person. During the day he's Sean, at night he's Dasant - a very special type of Kyndred. Rowan was ok with it and HEA.
I liked this one a lot. It was a high 4 for me. I liked it more than the last one. I enjoyed the characters and could feel the chemistry between the three of them. I was king of annoyed that there were so many other little stories. I think if there were less of them, I would have given it a 5.
Very good.
After the man she secretly loved for years fell in love with his "one", Rowan needed to get away. But Rowan isn't an ordinary girl - she's a Kyndred. She can change into a person's most beloved (female only) and is looking for the man she can be herself with. On her way to Boston, she makes a pit-stop in NYC and ends up getting stuck.
Dasant wasn't looking for love, but when he saw the woman who crashed her motorcycle in the alley of his restaurant, he felt something he never thought he'd feel. He wants her to stay. He tended her wounds, gave her a job, and offered her a place to stay (one of the two apartments above the restaurant). He knows she the one.
Sean lives in the other apartment above the restaurant. He's rude, surly and not interested. Slowly but surely, Rowan defrosts his icy heart and he falls a little more in love with her everyday. Not only do they share a love for Rowan, they share a secret that unbelievable.
So does Rowan - with both of them and she feels so guilty about it, she's willing to walk away form it all. After a major conflict with the baddie of the story, Rowan learns Dasant and Sean secret. They are the same person. During the day he's Sean, at night he's Dasant - a very special type of Kyndred. Rowan was ok with it and HEA.
I liked this one a lot. It was a high 4 for me. I liked it more than the last one. I enjoyed the characters and could feel the chemistry between the three of them. I was king of annoyed that there were so many other little stories. I think if there were less of them, I would have given it a 5.
March 28, 2011
This book wasn't as strong as Shadowlight, but still a pretty decent read. In this book we continue on with the journey of Rowan, a Kyndred who when she touches a man can shapeshift into the woman who is the love of his life. After helping Mathias and Jessa in Shadowlight she moves onto Boston but gets stuck in NY after getting her motorcycle busted up. Rowan who is an aspiring chef meets Jean Marc who ask her to work in his restaurant to help pay for the repairs on her bike and also live in the upstairs apartment. She is automatically drawn to the handsome chef, but fights her feeling because she know she cannot stay. While living upstairs she meets the other tenant who also happens to be Jean Marc's business partner, tough talking Meridan, who she also feels an attraction to. This leaves Rowan with a confused heart since her dream is to find the man who would see her as his true love.
I loved the premise of the book even though the story could be a little tighter. The book spent more time on Rowan's feeling for the two men and not enough on her conflict with hiding from GenHance or the inner turmoil she has over her past. I found the mystery about GenHances muscleman, Delaporte and the mysterious Kyndred, Taske a litte more interesting than Rowan's story of finding her place in the world. By the middle of the story I kind of figured out the story of Meridan and Jean Marc as well as the secret past that tries to catch up with Rowan. The love scene was a little too abstact for me as the author talks about it in flashbacks. Other than that the book was not the best, but I still would love the read the next book in the series.
I loved the premise of the book even though the story could be a little tighter. The book spent more time on Rowan's feeling for the two men and not enough on her conflict with hiding from GenHance or the inner turmoil she has over her past. I found the mystery about GenHances muscleman, Delaporte and the mysterious Kyndred, Taske a litte more interesting than Rowan's story of finding her place in the world. By the middle of the story I kind of figured out the story of Meridan and Jean Marc as well as the secret past that tries to catch up with Rowan. The love scene was a little too abstact for me as the author talks about it in flashbacks. Other than that the book was not the best, but I still would love the read the next book in the series.
March 21, 2010
So, I read this book in Proof Copy format, without the cover. My friend won the book in a contest run on Lynn Viehl's blog, and she kindly let me borrow it to read because I'm a huge fan of Lynn Viehl's work. I've read all her Darkyn series and I'm about to start on her StarDoc series when I have the money again. So naturally, I read the first book in this series, Shadowlight back in November when it came out.
I fumbled a little in the beginning of this book. The instant attraction between Rowan and Dansant is somewhat unbelievable. I mean, if some girl crashed into your sous-chef's car, would you fire the sous-chef, hand him two weeks pay, and then take the girl into your restaurant, fix up her banged knees, and then give a free apartment and a job? Yeah, I wouldn't either, but as this is a paranormal fantasy novel, I was actually willing to take the leap.
And I'm glad I did. The book gets better and better, especially when Sean, the mechanic fixing her bike starts falling for her. There's lots of plot, lots of conflict, and a surprising twist to end the book with. I won't say anything further so I don't ruin it for those that haven't read it, especially since it won't be released until June 1. I actually can't wait for it to come out. I'll definitely be adding this one to my collection.
As usual, Lynn Viehl's cunning prose made me read the book in one sitting, and left me well satisfied, and hungry for more.
Oh, and it looks like it'll include an excerpt for the next book in the series.
Four ninja stars.
I fumbled a little in the beginning of this book. The instant attraction between Rowan and Dansant is somewhat unbelievable. I mean, if some girl crashed into your sous-chef's car, would you fire the sous-chef, hand him two weeks pay, and then take the girl into your restaurant, fix up her banged knees, and then give a free apartment and a job? Yeah, I wouldn't either, but as this is a paranormal fantasy novel, I was actually willing to take the leap.
And I'm glad I did. The book gets better and better, especially when Sean, the mechanic fixing her bike starts falling for her. There's lots of plot, lots of conflict, and a surprising twist to end the book with. I won't say anything further so I don't ruin it for those that haven't read it, especially since it won't be released until June 1. I actually can't wait for it to come out. I'll definitely be adding this one to my collection.
As usual, Lynn Viehl's cunning prose made me read the book in one sitting, and left me well satisfied, and hungry for more.
Oh, and it looks like it'll include an excerpt for the next book in the series.
Four ninja stars.
September 19, 2010
I found it hard to get my bearings since it has been about a year since the brilliant Shadowlight (Kyndred Novels) came out in 2009, but once it came back to me I could not put this novel down, there is obviously more to come as she introduced more characters and left some tempting threads left dangling. LV cleverly zones in several characters living around America then interweaves them in a complex plot that leaves you wanting more.
You may remember Rowan from Shadowlight & nursing a broken heart she pulls away from there Kyndred family & strikes out by herself.
Rowan's power is the person she touches will see her shift into their heart's desire. Not only is her power desirable but her DNA as well.
Rowan Dietrich has had a hellish brutal past & on the way through to Boston she stops off at New York City where she ran away from just to look around. She suddenly comes off her bike & crashes outside a French restaurant where she meets Chef Jean- Marc.
While waiting for the bike repairs by Sean (love interest number two) she stays & works at the restaurant. Unbeknowest to Rowan, her obsessive powerful father is looking for her for his own sick gain.
There are several other storylines threaded through the story & you see what the GenHance are upto & their motivations & their plans for the future plus you catch up with the 'moles's that where planted at GenHance previously.
Great story but could not be read really on it's own, great storytelling, enjoyed every page.
The next book in the series is Frostfire: A Novel of the Kyndred (Kyndred Novel) .
You may remember Rowan from Shadowlight & nursing a broken heart she pulls away from there Kyndred family & strikes out by herself.
Rowan's power is the person she touches will see her shift into their heart's desire. Not only is her power desirable but her DNA as well.
Rowan Dietrich has had a hellish brutal past & on the way through to Boston she stops off at New York City where she ran away from just to look around. She suddenly comes off her bike & crashes outside a French restaurant where she meets Chef Jean- Marc.
While waiting for the bike repairs by Sean (love interest number two) she stays & works at the restaurant. Unbeknowest to Rowan, her obsessive powerful father is looking for her for his own sick gain.
There are several other storylines threaded through the story & you see what the GenHance are upto & their motivations & their plans for the future plus you catch up with the 'moles's that where planted at GenHance previously.
Great story but could not be read really on it's own, great storytelling, enjoyed every page.
The next book in the series is Frostfire: A Novel of the Kyndred (Kyndred Novel) .
June 2, 2010
Wow. I loved this book. As I told my sister, at the beginning I was totally lost but the characters were so enthralling that I couldn't stop reading. I might have been a bit lost because I didn't start with the first one but I figured stuff out. I just stuck with the story and everything was explained down to the most minute questions which were left hanging at the beginning of the book. Except for the continuing story arc of course but that is going to play out over several books obviously.
I absolutely loved the main character. She was kind of a roll with the punches kind of girl. I loved the twist at the end which I guessed pretty early on but then I had the fun of watching it all play out. I loved the French chef Dansant and the surly mechanic Sean. Two really great characters and the love story was very well done.
The paranormal stuff seems fairly well thought out and interesting. Can't wait for the next one and I'm going to get the first one to read as soon as possible. I read a lot of books for free but this one I'm definitely going to get my own copy of.
I'm giddy with pleasure at this book. But then I finished it at 2:30 in the morning having read it at one sitting so that may factor in. :-)
I absolutely loved the main character. She was kind of a roll with the punches kind of girl. I loved the twist at the end which I guessed pretty early on but then I had the fun of watching it all play out. I loved the French chef Dansant and the surly mechanic Sean. Two really great characters and the love story was very well done.
The paranormal stuff seems fairly well thought out and interesting. Can't wait for the next one and I'm going to get the first one to read as soon as possible. I read a lot of books for free but this one I'm definitely going to get my own copy of.
I'm giddy with pleasure at this book. But then I finished it at 2:30 in the morning having read it at one sitting so that may factor in. :-)
October 9, 2013
FYI: I read the first in the Darkyn series and then picked up the first two in the Kyndred world as that is what was at my local library :)
Also, my review contains SPOILERS!!
I was originally very intrigued with the mythology of the books. I loved the idea that vampirism came from a mix of pathogens during the dark ages. I found it a neat twist to the standard demon/magic side of paranormal fiction. I was originally also buying into some of the psychic traits possessed by Darkyn/Kyndred as a biological/genetic side effect of their specific DNA. But the whole "reveal" with the two main male characters in this book... I know the author gave a loose explanation of how it happened, but seems way too mystical for me to buy into based on the rest of her world building. Maybe I would have an easier time accepting it if I had read more of the original Darkyn series. Also, like some other reviewers, this book had way too many coincidences for me to be believable (even with the standard suspension of belief most fantasy novels require!). And I am confused on why the genetics company just dropped the hunt for the dominant female as it seemed so critical to their research.
All that said, I will probably still check out more books in the two series :)
Also, my review contains SPOILERS!!
I was originally very intrigued with the mythology of the books. I loved the idea that vampirism came from a mix of pathogens during the dark ages. I found it a neat twist to the standard demon/magic side of paranormal fiction. I was originally also buying into some of the psychic traits possessed by Darkyn/Kyndred as a biological/genetic side effect of their specific DNA. But the whole "reveal" with the two main male characters in this book... I know the author gave a loose explanation of how it happened, but seems way too mystical for me to buy into based on the rest of her world building. Maybe I would have an easier time accepting it if I had read more of the original Darkyn series. Also, like some other reviewers, this book had way too many coincidences for me to be believable (even with the standard suspension of belief most fantasy novels require!). And I am confused on why the genetics company just dropped the hunt for the dominant female as it seemed so critical to their research.
All that said, I will probably still check out more books in the two series :)
June 27, 2013
I have to admit that I'm usually pretty good at keeping up with intricate storylines, but this one kept throwing me for a serious loop. And not a loop in a good way. There were so many little side stories that I was expecting would tie in somewhere at the end, but they didn't. I figured out all the aliases and who they belonged to, but it really pulled me out of the story while I tried to sort out who was who, and who was on the good side versus the evil side.
Overall, while I like Rowan, I'm still not sure I understand her situation that found her in New York. I don't understand how Seth and Dasant are both individuals that share a body (but are not a split personality and look nothing alike) and seemingly came from one man Nathan Frame. Who is Nathan Frame?
I think in this case there were too many players to make me really care about any of them. Their relationships were tangled without explanation and at the end of the book I was left going "What the hell happened there?"
Maybe the next one will clear up some confusion because yes, I'm a sucker for a series and I've been reading this one from the beginning...
Until next time,
~Lisa
Overall, while I like Rowan, I'm still not sure I understand her situation that found her in New York. I don't understand how Seth and Dasant are both individuals that share a body (but are not a split personality and look nothing alike) and seemingly came from one man Nathan Frame. Who is Nathan Frame?
I think in this case there were too many players to make me really care about any of them. Their relationships were tangled without explanation and at the end of the book I was left going "What the hell happened there?"
Maybe the next one will clear up some confusion because yes, I'm a sucker for a series and I've been reading this one from the beginning...
Until next time,
~Lisa
January 14, 2014
I liked the second book in this series a lot more than the first. For a couple of reasons - as the first book was kind of confusing, I expected this one to be also (and I was correct to expect this). I also really liked Rowan in book one, even if she was an insufferable bitch (although, that could be what appealed to me).
The plot sped along quite nicely. There was a fair bit of mystery in this book as well - which we all know I adore. I had no idea which person the bad guy was after as the author's descriptions were so clever. Also, the Sean and Jean-Marc relationship was curious, and I began to suspect what was happening pretty early on. Haha - didn't get me there at least. Would have been too heartbreaking otherwise.
Rowan was awesome - as always. She seriously is kick ass. And even though she's just a fictional character, I am quite jealous of her ability to cook. I hope she continues to feature in future books in this series (and the next).
Overall, a good read. You know, if you're into vampires ... oops, I mean Darkyn.
Check out more of my reviews at http://whatabookbitch.blogspot.ca
The plot sped along quite nicely. There was a fair bit of mystery in this book as well - which we all know I adore. I had no idea which person the bad guy was after as the author's descriptions were so clever. Also, the Sean and Jean-Marc relationship was curious, and I began to suspect what was happening pretty early on. Haha - didn't get me there at least. Would have been too heartbreaking otherwise.
Rowan was awesome - as always. She seriously is kick ass. And even though she's just a fictional character, I am quite jealous of her ability to cook. I hope she continues to feature in future books in this series (and the next).
Overall, a good read. You know, if you're into vampires ... oops, I mean Darkyn.
Check out more of my reviews at http://whatabookbitch.blogspot.ca
June 1, 2010
I wish there were a 3 1/2 star...I really debated between a 3 and 4. This book was good and I really enjoyed it once I got into it. It skips around a bunch from character to character in the early chapters and it wasn't until the stories converged that it really got me going. I was really interested in Rowen's character in the first Kyndred book and really wanted to see her happy. Overall, I'm happy with the way things played out for her, but because the book has so much in it and it's not a very long book, I kinda felt like she needed a bit more story all her own. It's just that several things were going on at once and while they all interconnected well and will lead to more in the future, I'm certain, I spent a lot of time trying to figure out what was going on and I wanted a little more focus on Rowen and her romance situation. However, the romance was Hot Hot Hot and that was a big part of the mystery to be solved in the book as well. Overall, I really enjoyed it and I'm glad Viehl created this extension of the Darkyn series.
June 21, 2010
Dreamveil was a quick and exciting read for me. Lynn Viehl has wowed me again with her ability to mix science, known myths, mystery and complex characters into a fascinating story. I love how she moves between the characters, telling the story from their different point of views. This gives the story an overall satisfying feeling for me, being able to be inside the heads of the main players of the story.
She brought Rowan alive for me on these pages, into a person I could relate with on all levels. The romance that she inspires between Rowan and her new love interest was very suspenseful but there were times that I didn't quite feel the connection between them. The secondary characters were all interesting and made me want to know more about them. Especially, the enigmatic and oh, so sexy Taske. But I'm happy overall with how everything worked out for everyone in the end.
The Kyndred is one series that's on my auto-buy list!
She brought Rowan alive for me on these pages, into a person I could relate with on all levels. The romance that she inspires between Rowan and her new love interest was very suspenseful but there were times that I didn't quite feel the connection between them. The secondary characters were all interesting and made me want to know more about them. Especially, the enigmatic and oh, so sexy Taske. But I'm happy overall with how everything worked out for everyone in the end.
The Kyndred is one series that's on my auto-buy list!
May 31, 2015
Rowan Dietrich besitzt eine besondere Gabe: Sie kann die Gestalt jeder Traumfrau annehmen bzw. die Traumfrau des Mannes der ihr gegenüber steht. Dann macht sie sich auf die Suche um für einen Mann die Traumfrau zu sein. Doch dann hat sie einen Unfall und landet im einem Restaurant in New York, der Besitzer Jean-Marc Dansant bietet ihr Arbeit und eine Wohnung an. Als sie sich sicher fühlt, kommt ihr dunkle Vergangenheit zurück ans Licht.
Dieses Band war viel besser als Band 1 und hat wieder viele Intrigen in der Geschichte. Intrigen, gute Intrigen liebe ich, Geheimnisse, Spannung, Gefühle, Liebe und natürlich auch etwas Action. Hier war einfach alles dabei und in genau der richtigen Mischung. Dieses Mal war die Liebesgeschichte etwas mehr vorhanden und mit ein paar Überraschungen gespickt. Aber ehrlich gesagt weis ich jetzt genauso viel über die Kyndred wie im nach dem ersten Band. Aber eine super Geschichte über Rowan und bin gespannt auf die zwei weiteren Bänder.
Dieses Band war viel besser als Band 1 und hat wieder viele Intrigen in der Geschichte. Intrigen, gute Intrigen liebe ich, Geheimnisse, Spannung, Gefühle, Liebe und natürlich auch etwas Action. Hier war einfach alles dabei und in genau der richtigen Mischung. Dieses Mal war die Liebesgeschichte etwas mehr vorhanden und mit ein paar Überraschungen gespickt. Aber ehrlich gesagt weis ich jetzt genauso viel über die Kyndred wie im nach dem ersten Band. Aber eine super Geschichte über Rowan und bin gespannt auf die zwei weiteren Bänder.
July 9, 2010
I wasn't too sure about Rowan the last book, but I loved her this time around!! She was so matter of fact, blunt, and doesn't really care what people think of her. How she found her way to Jean-Marc was interesting, but I didn't really like that the book was leading to a romance between the two of them. After meeting her neighbor Sean Meriden he seemed the better match and their verbal volleys were great fun to read. I did get the connection between the 2 men quite early and wasn't too sure what I thought about that, and am even now not sure what I think.
For the larger story arc with GenHance there was a little to move the story farther. I think some of what we learned won't become apparent for a couple of books, the story just hanging out there until we get more context.
I can't wait for the next one!!
For the larger story arc with GenHance there was a little to move the story farther. I think some of what we learned won't become apparent for a couple of books, the story just hanging out there until we get more context.
I can't wait for the next one!!
July 11, 2014
Well this book was more interesting and twisted as all hell. I figured out the main twist early on, but it was an original. I don't like it though; I hate love triangles. Hate them.
So Rowan is a cool character, much more like able in this book than the previous. But then again she acted like a bratty child in the previous one. She's more mature & calm in this one. Sean - in love, but them I'm a sucker for big tall manly men. Yeah, there's nothing I dislike about him. Also, hello steamy times. Jean-Marc, he annoyed me for a while how he used his talent against Rowan, but I suppose it all made sense in the end.
Why are none of the mysteries in this book solved? Like Jean-Marc's, Sean's, Taire's? I btw, I can't imagine reading this books without previously reading the Darkyn books, it'd just make no sense.
So Rowan is a cool character, much more like able in this book than the previous. But then again she acted like a bratty child in the previous one. She's more mature & calm in this one. Sean - in love, but them I'm a sucker for big tall manly men. Yeah, there's nothing I dislike about him. Also, hello steamy times. Jean-Marc, he annoyed me for a while how he used his talent against Rowan, but I suppose it all made sense in the end.
Why are none of the mysteries in this book solved? Like Jean-Marc's, Sean's, Taire's? I btw, I can't imagine reading this books without previously reading the Darkyn books, it'd just make no sense.
December 4, 2011
I wasn't sure that I liked Rowan much leading into this book, but boy was I wrong. She was a very strong yet compassionate lead. It's hard to review this book without giving too much away but I found it interesting, and I'm not into all this cooking hype and shows that are in, the running of the kitchen was interesting in this book, however. What was more interesting were the beautiful Jean-Marc and sexy as sin Sean. The sexual tension between Rowan and the abovementioned was smouldering. Once again a well layered book which wrapped up neatly, with multi-dimensional, strong, empathetic, complex characters and a good pace making this an exceptionally good read. Oh yes, I liked the cover, I thought it represented the male(s) well, l love it when a cover is not insulting.
January 3, 2012
Lynn Viehl delivers an exciting read of colorful and unique characters that storm through the reader’s emotions with each plot twist. These characters are mesmerizing with their charm, mysterious personas, and breathtaking passion that they invoke within the heart of the reader. Dreamveil’s edgy plot captures your attentions as it builds into a climatic ending with a few surprises along the way. Ms. Viehl continues to entrench me within her creative mind with this series of the Kyndred and I continue to keep her at the top of my favorite author to read list. Dreamveil is a great book and one not to be missed especially if you have read her previous novels—which I would recommend to get full enjoyment and understanding of the characters, but this is great as a stand alone too.
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