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October Daye #4
Late Eclipses
October "Toby" Daye, changeling knight in the service of Duke Sylvester Torquill, finds the delicate balance of her life shattered when she learns that an old friend is in dire trouble. Lily, Lady of the Tea Gardens, has been struck down by a mysterious, seemingly impossible illness, leaving her fiefdom undefended. Struggling to find a way to save Lily and her subjects, Toby must confront her own past as an enemy she thought was gone forever raises her head once more: Oleander de Merelands, one of the two people responsible for her fourteen-year exile.
Time is growing short and the stakes are getting higher, for the Queen of the Mists has her own agenda. With everything on the line, Toby will have to take the ultimate risk to save herself and the people she loves most—because if she can't find the missing pieces of the puzzle in time, Toby will be forced to make the one choice she never thought she'd have to face again...
Late Eclipse is the fourth installment of the highly praised Toby Daye series.
Time is growing short and the stakes are getting higher, for the Queen of the Mists has her own agenda. With everything on the line, Toby will have to take the ultimate risk to save herself and the people she loves most—because if she can't find the missing pieces of the puzzle in time, Toby will be forced to make the one choice she never thought she'd have to face again...
Late Eclipse is the fourth installment of the highly praised Toby Daye series.
372 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
About the author
Seanan McGuire
495 books15.2k followersHi! I'm Seanan McGuire, author of the Toby Daye series (Rosemary and Rue, A Local Habitation, An Artificial Night, Late Eclipses), as well as a lot of other things. I'm also Mira Grant (www.miragrant.com), author of Feed and Deadline.
Born and raised in Northern California, I fear weather and am remarkably laid-back about rattlesnakes. I watch too many horror movies, read too many comic books, and share my house with two monsters in feline form, Lilly and Alice (Siamese and Maine Coon).
I do not check this inbox. Please don't send me messages through Goodreads; they won't be answered. I don't want to have to delete this account. :(
Born and raised in Northern California, I fear weather and am remarkably laid-back about rattlesnakes. I watch too many horror movies, read too many comic books, and share my house with two monsters in feline form, Lilly and Alice (Siamese and Maine Coon).
I do not check this inbox. Please don't send me messages through Goodreads; they won't be answered. I don't want to have to delete this account. :(
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,075 reviews
August 24, 2016
Yep, you were right Steven!
Alright, if you (like me) didn't care for the first few books in the October Daye series, but didn't hate them, either? Ok. Then maybe you should give the series another chance.
Especially if you're looking for a new urban fantasy series to get into, because this one seems to be heading somewhere cool & fun!
Or at least it looks that way to me.
Oh, and there's a pretty BIG reveal about who/what October is in this book!
No. I won't be spoiling anything, but it looks like this is the sort of secret that is going to make a huge difference in the way future stories play out.
*squee*
Ok, not exactly like that, but maybe kinda-sorta a little like that!
Alright, if you (like me) didn't care for the first few books in the October Daye series, but didn't hate them, either? Ok. Then maybe you should give the series another chance.
Especially if you're looking for a new urban fantasy series to get into, because this one seems to be heading somewhere cool & fun!
Or at least it looks that way to me.
Oh, and there's a pretty BIG reveal about who/what October is in this book!
No. I won't be spoiling anything, but it looks like this is the sort of secret that is going to make a huge difference in the way future stories play out.
*squee*
Ok, not exactly like that, but maybe kinda-sorta a little like that!
April 8, 2023
*** 4.44 ***
A weekly Urban Fantasy buddy read with the Fae creatures at BB&B!!!
Book 4 of the October Daye series and Seanan McGuire has completely dug her claws into my heart and mind! To say it was unexpected would be an understatement. After all, I only read Urban Fantasy for the creativity and magical experience they bring me, without having my emotions too engaged and not much of me getting invested in the development of the characters. I can count on a fun, entertaining, and actionny ride with no lasting side effects....
Toby is a changeling in a half human, half Fae world, who roomies with her Fetch, the harbinger of her doom, May. She is always rushing head first into mortal danger, so it kind of makes sense for her personal impending death reminder to share living space with her. Toby and May have a crew of almost constant companions and all of them, with some minor exceptions (Conner, Ray, you guys have to chill!), have a fun and quirky sense of humor. Add fabulous magical powers, weird Fae creatures, and a multilayered realities world, and it should make for a typical UF read, right? Well, it should have been just another escapist experience for me, but nooooo! Seanan McGuire MADE ME CARE!!! *shakes fists at the skies* Why, you sneaky author you, why?????
I was just reading, minding my own business, trying to be entertained, and BOOM! SM sneaks characters who made me love, care or hate them, and all my internal emotional equilibrium gone! I not only cared, I actually ugly cried twice, and I know I will be thinking about those situations for days to come.... And I was just trying to not have strong feelings... Another complete failure!!!
Well, for all the tears and emotions, I think I liked this installment best of all up to this point. Maybe it is exactly BECAUSE of all those feelings and such... No matter what, this world has become one I plan on spending a lot of time in:-)
So, if you want to be entertained, but also like some real humanity with your Fae and magic, this series is for you!!! No age limit, no unnecessary cruelty, just a story of a changeling who wants to be a real person...
Have a great reading time and may you be blessed with good books only!!!
A weekly Urban Fantasy buddy read with the Fae creatures at BB&B!!!
Book 4 of the October Daye series and Seanan McGuire has completely dug her claws into my heart and mind! To say it was unexpected would be an understatement. After all, I only read Urban Fantasy for the creativity and magical experience they bring me, without having my emotions too engaged and not much of me getting invested in the development of the characters. I can count on a fun, entertaining, and actionny ride with no lasting side effects....
Toby is a changeling in a half human, half Fae world, who roomies with her Fetch, the harbinger of her doom, May. She is always rushing head first into mortal danger, so it kind of makes sense for her personal impending death reminder to share living space with her. Toby and May have a crew of almost constant companions and all of them, with some minor exceptions (Conner, Ray, you guys have to chill!), have a fun and quirky sense of humor. Add fabulous magical powers, weird Fae creatures, and a multilayered realities world, and it should make for a typical UF read, right? Well, it should have been just another escapist experience for me, but nooooo! Seanan McGuire MADE ME CARE!!! *shakes fists at the skies* Why, you sneaky author you, why?????
I was just reading, minding my own business, trying to be entertained, and BOOM! SM sneaks characters who made me love, care or hate them, and all my internal emotional equilibrium gone! I not only cared, I actually ugly cried twice, and I know I will be thinking about those situations for days to come.... And I was just trying to not have strong feelings... Another complete failure!!!
Well, for all the tears and emotions, I think I liked this installment best of all up to this point. Maybe it is exactly BECAUSE of all those feelings and such... No matter what, this world has become one I plan on spending a lot of time in:-)
So, if you want to be entertained, but also like some real humanity with your Fae and magic, this series is for you!!! No age limit, no unnecessary cruelty, just a story of a changeling who wants to be a real person...
Have a great reading time and may you be blessed with good books only!!!
January 24, 2023
Toby Daye—our favorite changeling knight is a little stressed right now guys
“I was too tired; I couldn’t cope. “Wake me when the world ends.”
“Your wish is my command,” Tybalt replied with a smirk”
ITS THE END OF THE WORLD AS SHE KNOWS ITTT
Motherfucking is back and the bitch is pissed. so of course, she taking it out on everyone that Toby loves
Compared to the previous books, this one is even darker. Both plot-wise and Toby sorta got a whole morbid self-deprecating humor thing going on. It kinda disconnected me from my previous character love and I struggled to connect with her on the same level.
“If spoiler was targeting me, she was doing it the right way. She was keeping me off-balance and had a good shot at getting me executed. Bully for her.”
The stakes are getting higher and higher, the Queen of Mists is out for revenge, Oleander is all murdery, and generally, just a lot of shit is just going down
“I laughed bitterly. “I’m peachy.”
“There’s the manic-depressive sweetheart we all know and love. Get up. You’ll feel better after you’ve had a shower.”
Honestly, if it wasn't for some of the fun side characters, I might've taken a pause in this series. Like sure I get that the author is trying to convey the dark seriousness of the situation.... but bitch its dEpReSsInG
Thank god for my favorite Taxi driver:
“Toby, hang onto the dashboard.” After a pause he added, “Also, praying to the sacred ash and all that shit might be good.” The engine screamed as he shifted gears”
Something I loved previously about Toby, being a lesser unpowerful fey who had to work with what she got... is basically gone now. Now there's a little bit of mystery around her fey nature and just how strong she is. Cuz lets be real a regular changeling should’ve died like 12 times by now
Classic in this series so far is revamping some legends and myths. Remember when Firstborns were a rare all powerful beings that rarely bothered to join the minor fey... well now these fuckers are popping out of the fucking ground or something
“I eyed her warily as I tucked the petals back in my pocket. “Define ‘detour.’ ”
“Detour. A word meaning ‘I’m Firstborn, and I could kick your ass without thinking about it, so how about you just go along with me and nobody gets hurt”
Overall... if I could skip this book in the series then I probably would. It does have the most plot development and character insight into some of our heroes so far.. but. at the same time. it just lacked the fun sassy humor of the first couple that I hope the author can bring back because seriously don't do this to MAH GURL *tears*
“I was too tired; I couldn’t cope. “Wake me when the world ends.”
“Your wish is my command,” Tybalt replied with a smirk”
ITS THE END OF THE WORLD AS SHE KNOWS ITTT
Motherfucking is back and the bitch is pissed. so of course, she taking it out on everyone that Toby loves
Compared to the previous books, this one is even darker. Both plot-wise and Toby sorta got a whole morbid self-deprecating humor thing going on. It kinda disconnected me from my previous character love and I struggled to connect with her on the same level.
“If spoiler was targeting me, she was doing it the right way. She was keeping me off-balance and had a good shot at getting me executed. Bully for her.”
The stakes are getting higher and higher, the Queen of Mists is out for revenge, Oleander is all murdery, and generally, just a lot of shit is just going down
“I laughed bitterly. “I’m peachy.”
“There’s the manic-depressive sweetheart we all know and love. Get up. You’ll feel better after you’ve had a shower.”
Honestly, if it wasn't for some of the fun side characters, I might've taken a pause in this series. Like sure I get that the author is trying to convey the dark seriousness of the situation.... but bitch its dEpReSsInG
Thank god for my favorite Taxi driver:
“Toby, hang onto the dashboard.” After a pause he added, “Also, praying to the sacred ash and all that shit might be good.” The engine screamed as he shifted gears”
Something I loved previously about Toby, being a lesser unpowerful fey who had to work with what she got... is basically gone now. Now there's a little bit of mystery around her fey nature and just how strong she is. Cuz lets be real a regular changeling should’ve died like 12 times by now
Classic in this series so far is revamping some legends and myths. Remember when Firstborns were a rare all powerful beings that rarely bothered to join the minor fey... well now these fuckers are popping out of the fucking ground or something
“I eyed her warily as I tucked the petals back in my pocket. “Define ‘detour.’ ”
“Detour. A word meaning ‘I’m Firstborn, and I could kick your ass without thinking about it, so how about you just go along with me and nobody gets hurt”
Overall... if I could skip this book in the series then I probably would. It does have the most plot development and character insight into some of our heroes so far.. but. at the same time. it just lacked the fun sassy humor of the first couple that I hope the author can bring back because seriously don't do this to MAH GURL *tears*
June 2, 2013
October Daye reminds me of that friend whom I liked a great deal, but who was a disaster waiting to happen. Make a shopping date, and she'd show up 45 minutes late and then discover she lost her credit card at the first store. We'd have some commotion looking for it, involve two or three innocent bystanders, run back and search the car, call home and convince someone to search her house until they found it, and then after much quibbling, she'd agree to borrow some money so we could go ahead and complete our mission. The good news is that October has improved quite a bit in this book and will not only actually allow friends to help, but she'll probably cut the twenty minutes of pointless arguing down to five.
What I found enjoyable in Late Eclipses is some interesting plotting, some long-awaited character development in October, and as always, various fae legends come to life. While she has seemed to believe that self-sacrifice is the most important part of problem solving, this time she's actively involving others in seeking solutions. There's also an twist involving October's heritage that is quite a surprise for her--although perhaps less so for the rest of the fae and for the series reader--and provides a number of avenues for further story development.
Still, McGuire's writing remains troubled by inconsistencies and repetition. Inconsistencies like Toby telling Tybalt "you might want to let go of me before I'm compelled to break your fingers" about ten minutes after she's mused on how good he looks in suede and leather, followed by a gentle but politically motivated kiss. Inconsistencies like stating Oleander is the biggest nightmare known to Lord Sylvester's court, but that she's probably just a legend to most fae. Character inconsistencies like Etienne believing October saw Oleander after the ball, but then tried to attack her because she fled "the Queen's justice," which was understood to be a death sentence. Then there's the repetition: if I've read don't say "thank you" to the fae, I've read it twenty times, and in this book, we add in "don't talk about fae deaths to the purebloods."
October is still a bit of a dope and could certainly use a cell phone instead of charging back and forth across San Francisco and Faerie. Physical movement often takes the place of actual plot points, but at least in this book, her willingness to involve the group means we have greater opportunity to interact with Danny the taxi-driving troll and May the doppelganger as we go. I could pass on the developing love-triangle (Team Tybalt! Team Connor!) but at the moment it isn't overpowering the story.
Overall, a number of improvements in character that keep the series readable. The fae world is as always, creative and fascinating, so I'm sure I'll be looking for the next book.
Three and a half stars.
Cross posted at http://clsiewert.wordpress.com/2013/0...
What I found enjoyable in Late Eclipses is some interesting plotting, some long-awaited character development in October, and as always, various fae legends come to life. While she has seemed to believe that self-sacrifice is the most important part of problem solving, this time she's actively involving others in seeking solutions. There's also an twist involving October's heritage that is quite a surprise for her--although perhaps less so for the rest of the fae and for the series reader--and provides a number of avenues for further story development.
Still, McGuire's writing remains troubled by inconsistencies and repetition. Inconsistencies like Toby telling Tybalt "you might want to let go of me before I'm compelled to break your fingers" about ten minutes after she's mused on how good he looks in suede and leather, followed by a gentle but politically motivated kiss. Inconsistencies like stating Oleander is the biggest nightmare known to Lord Sylvester's court, but that she's probably just a legend to most fae. Character inconsistencies like Etienne believing October saw Oleander after the ball, but then tried to attack her because she fled "the Queen's justice," which was understood to be a death sentence. Then there's the repetition: if I've read don't say "thank you" to the fae, I've read it twenty times, and in this book, we add in "don't talk about fae deaths to the purebloods."
October is still a bit of a dope and could certainly use a cell phone instead of charging back and forth across San Francisco and Faerie. Physical movement often takes the place of actual plot points, but at least in this book, her willingness to involve the group means we have greater opportunity to interact with Danny the taxi-driving troll and May the doppelganger as we go. I could pass on the developing love-triangle (Team Tybalt! Team Connor!) but at the moment it isn't overpowering the story.
Overall, a number of improvements in character that keep the series readable. The fae world is as always, creative and fascinating, so I'm sure I'll be looking for the next book.
Three and a half stars.
Cross posted at http://clsiewert.wordpress.com/2013/0...
March 1, 2020
Late Eclipses (October Daye #4), Seanan McGuire
October "Toby" Daye, changeling knight in the service of Duke Sylvester Torquill, finds the delicate balance of her life shattered when she learns that an old friend is in dire trouble. Lily, Lady of the Tea Gardens, has been struck down by a mysterious, seemingly impossible illness, leaving her fiefdom undefended.
Struggling to find a way to save Lily and her subjects, Toby must confront her own past as an enemy she thought was gone forever raises her head once more: Oleander de Merelands, one of the two people responsible for her fourteen-year exile.
Time is growing short and the stakes are getting higher, for the Queen of the Mists has her own agenda. With everything on the line, Toby will have to take the ultimate risk to save herself and the people she loves most—because if she can't find the missing pieces of the puzzle in time, Toby will be forced to make the one choice she never thought she'd have to face again...
تاریخ نخستین خوانش روز بیست و هشتم ماه فوریه سال 2017 میلادی
عنوان: گرفتگیهای دیرهنگام: کتاب چهارم از سری اکتبر دای؛ نویسنده: سینان (شانین) مک گوایر (مکگیر)؛
در کتاب چهارم از سری «اکتبر (توبی) دای»، با عنوان «گرفتگیهای دیرهنگام»، «اکتبر (توبی) دای»، در حال تغییر دادن شوالیه در خدمت دوک سیلوستر تورکیل، تعادل ظریف زندگی خود را از هم گسیخته مییابد و درمییابد که یک دوست قدیمی دچار دردسر شدیدی شه است.لیلی، بانوی باغهای چای، با یک بیماری مرموز و به ظاهر ناباورانه روبروست ...؛ ا. شربیانی
October "Toby" Daye, changeling knight in the service of Duke Sylvester Torquill, finds the delicate balance of her life shattered when she learns that an old friend is in dire trouble. Lily, Lady of the Tea Gardens, has been struck down by a mysterious, seemingly impossible illness, leaving her fiefdom undefended.
Struggling to find a way to save Lily and her subjects, Toby must confront her own past as an enemy she thought was gone forever raises her head once more: Oleander de Merelands, one of the two people responsible for her fourteen-year exile.
Time is growing short and the stakes are getting higher, for the Queen of the Mists has her own agenda. With everything on the line, Toby will have to take the ultimate risk to save herself and the people she loves most—because if she can't find the missing pieces of the puzzle in time, Toby will be forced to make the one choice she never thought she'd have to face again...
تاریخ نخستین خوانش روز بیست و هشتم ماه فوریه سال 2017 میلادی
عنوان: گرفتگیهای دیرهنگام: کتاب چهارم از سری اکتبر دای؛ نویسنده: سینان (شانین) مک گوایر (مکگیر)؛
در کتاب چهارم از سری «اکتبر (توبی) دای»، با عنوان «گرفتگیهای دیرهنگام»، «اکتبر (توبی) دای»، در حال تغییر دادن شوالیه در خدمت دوک سیلوستر تورکیل، تعادل ظریف زندگی خود را از هم گسیخته مییابد و درمییابد که یک دوست قدیمی دچار دردسر شدیدی شه است.لیلی، بانوی باغهای چای، با یک بیماری مرموز و به ظاهر ناباورانه روبروست ...؛ ا. شربیانی
November 23, 2020
4.5 stars. Well this series has definitely picked up! I was very underwhelmed by the last book, but this one has definitely made up for it. As we get more and more information about Toby's heritage, the tale becomes more and more intriguing. I'm loving the slow burn between Tybalt and Toby ( although some one please tell me why she can't let go of Connor who seems kind but a gormless wet fish compared to Tybalt).
I don't normally read books in a series back to back. I prefer to dwell on the story I've just read. Also if it's a good series, I fear running out of books and -horror or horrors- wait for the next to be written and published. Still I'm a fair way off that happening here as I believe there are now 10 in the series. Also I feel compelled to read them now until Toby and Tybalt finally get their act together.
Really glad I persevered with this series. Recommended.
I don't normally read books in a series back to back. I prefer to dwell on the story I've just read. Also if it's a good series, I fear running out of books and -horror or horrors- wait for the next to be written and published. Still I'm a fair way off that happening here as I believe there are now 10 in the series. Also I feel compelled to read them now until Toby and Tybalt finally get their act together.
Really glad I persevered with this series. Recommended.
May 19, 2016
Wow, Seanan McGuire is a friggin' superstar. This series is quickly rising in the ranks of my favorite UF series. Book three was great, and so was this one, book four.
So pumped that there are quite a few more before I'm caught up and stuck in the "waiting for every new release" phase.
So pumped that there are quite a few more before I'm caught up and stuck in the "waiting for every new release" phase.
March 24, 2011
**3.75?**
I had declared, after reading An Artificial Night, that Toby Daye and I simply would not do. Though there was much about her I adored, though her friends were lovely, entertaining people, Toby and I just didn’t see eye-to-eye. And so I bid her a fond farewell, wishing her all the best with those who might appreciate her better.
Insistent friends pleaded with me to give her another chance. “No, no,” said I. “You can never go back on that sort of decision. It just leads to more disappointment.”
But perhaps, every now and again, you can go back and the result will be surprising and fresh - all of the good things you remembered with very little of the bad to drag it all down. And so it went with Toby and I.
Late Eclipses focuses more on Toby and her past than any of the previous books, and perhaps therein lies the difference. Yes, there are mysterious illnesses to cure, foes to battle, and political nastiness to defend against. But at the center of it all is the question of who Toby is and who she wants to be. This time around, plot devices demand that she become aware of her limitations, that she think before she acts (sometimes) and the result is a more balanced hero. She spends a fair amount of time dashing back and forth as per her usual, but her investigation follows a logical path - a relief, because logic and Toby haven‘t always been bosom buds. She also accepts that running around alone often does more harm than good. With friends and allies by her side, Toby comes closer to performing an efficient investigation than she ever has before.
Match this newfound sensible nature with Toby’s helpful and caring personality and her likability spikes dramatically. Add in the humorous touches that McGuire is already adept at and the result is an enjoyable installment. Imagine - I only wanted to shake Toby once, maybe twice, throughout the whole of the book! I no longer paused every chapter to shake my head and think, “Oh, Toby, dear. Get a brain already!” Instead, I was wrapped up in the story and curious how everything was going to pan out. I’ll admit there were some obvious details, but there were so many other tidbits flying around that I found myself forgiving a few clue-by-fours.
Alongside Toby’s improvements, we have frequent stolen moments with the ever-desirable Tybalt (he of the tight leather pants). Note to Curran fans: know that this enigmatic cait sidhe is taking a page straight from the Beast Lord’s handbook. Why, oh, why do we find this practically feral sort of possessiveness attractive? Damned if I know - I just want more of it. Though the revelation of Tybalt and Toby’s mutual attraction is taking its time to unfurl, the glimpses McGuire provides are delicious and tantalizing enough to carry us through to the next volume.
With this novel, I’m coming to a greater appreciation of the author’s humor. Sometimes slapstick, often wry and always with a hint of self-deprecation, McGuire creates scenes and drops one-liners that command a snort or chuckle. It’s these moments that endear the characters to me and make me want to revisit them. Pacing and plot hindered my enjoyment before, but Late Eclipses has given me newfound hope that maybe, just maybe, Toby and I can work out after all.
I had declared, after reading An Artificial Night, that Toby Daye and I simply would not do. Though there was much about her I adored, though her friends were lovely, entertaining people, Toby and I just didn’t see eye-to-eye. And so I bid her a fond farewell, wishing her all the best with those who might appreciate her better.
Insistent friends pleaded with me to give her another chance. “No, no,” said I. “You can never go back on that sort of decision. It just leads to more disappointment.”
But perhaps, every now and again, you can go back and the result will be surprising and fresh - all of the good things you remembered with very little of the bad to drag it all down. And so it went with Toby and I.
Late Eclipses focuses more on Toby and her past than any of the previous books, and perhaps therein lies the difference. Yes, there are mysterious illnesses to cure, foes to battle, and political nastiness to defend against. But at the center of it all is the question of who Toby is and who she wants to be. This time around, plot devices demand that she become aware of her limitations, that she think before she acts (sometimes) and the result is a more balanced hero. She spends a fair amount of time dashing back and forth as per her usual, but her investigation follows a logical path - a relief, because logic and Toby haven‘t always been bosom buds. She also accepts that running around alone often does more harm than good. With friends and allies by her side, Toby comes closer to performing an efficient investigation than she ever has before.
Match this newfound sensible nature with Toby’s helpful and caring personality and her likability spikes dramatically. Add in the humorous touches that McGuire is already adept at and the result is an enjoyable installment. Imagine - I only wanted to shake Toby once, maybe twice, throughout the whole of the book! I no longer paused every chapter to shake my head and think, “Oh, Toby, dear. Get a brain already!” Instead, I was wrapped up in the story and curious how everything was going to pan out. I’ll admit there were some obvious details, but there were so many other tidbits flying around that I found myself forgiving a few clue-by-fours.
Alongside Toby’s improvements, we have frequent stolen moments with the ever-desirable Tybalt (he of the tight leather pants). Note to Curran fans: know that this enigmatic cait sidhe is taking a page straight from the Beast Lord’s handbook. Why, oh, why do we find this practically feral sort of possessiveness attractive? Damned if I know - I just want more of it. Though the revelation of Tybalt and Toby’s mutual attraction is taking its time to unfurl, the glimpses McGuire provides are delicious and tantalizing enough to carry us through to the next volume.
With this novel, I’m coming to a greater appreciation of the author’s humor. Sometimes slapstick, often wry and always with a hint of self-deprecation, McGuire creates scenes and drops one-liners that command a snort or chuckle. It’s these moments that endear the characters to me and make me want to revisit them. Pacing and plot hindered my enjoyment before, but Late Eclipses has given me newfound hope that maybe, just maybe, Toby and I can work out after all.
May 17, 2022
Continuing to really enjoy the arc of this series.
A bit more on the urban fantasy side than the last book which I think is good thing.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
A bit more on the urban fantasy side than the last book which I think is good thing.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
July 31, 2020
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
Several months have passed since we last saw October when LATE ECLIPSES begins, ending whatever relative peace she enjoyed on her off-season. <------I like that tactic, by the way. It makes all the hullabaloo our MC experiences on page feel more realistic, if we know things calm down when we're not looking. *whispers* No one can live in complete chaos 100% of time . . .
Regardless, it must be said that an appropriate alternate title for the fourth installment of Seanan McGuire's OCTOBER DAYE series might be: SHIT ESCALATES.
1. Hateful characters get more hateful.
Most notably, Rasyeline Torquill, although the Queen of the Mists isn't far behind. Basically, if they've got an axe to grind with Toby, they're no longer content to passively nurse their grudge.
SO. Be prepared to grind your teeth, b/c shiesty broads are shiesty.
2. Boys will be boys . . . or cats . . . or USELESS CHICKENS (who literally HIDE their faces when people drive too fast).
Okay, so there's a bit of a triangle. Not much of one, b/c there's a clear front-runner, so mostly it's frustrating that other dude is part of the equation.
BUT.
There were also numerous times when Front-Runner made my heart grow three sizes, b/c it's more and more obvious that he really, really likes our girl. *grins dopily* *giggles like school girl*
So who cares about what's-his-name (the chicken)? #notthisgirl
3. October's mysteriously mysterious heritage becomes MORE shrouded in mystery, even as we get answers.
It's both frustrating and delightful. Truly. It's a talented author who can successfully walk the tightrope of enough-information-to-both-satisfy-and-intrigue, and McGuire manages that balance masterfully. *tips hat*
In short, I was reminded over and over again of all the reasons why OCTOBER DAYE made it to my Top 5 UF Series list: a kick-ass heroine who refuses to quit, no matter the odds, a hilarious and entertaining cast of secondaries (Raf is my current favorite), a hotter-than-HAWT love interest #tybaltismyking, a fantastically fae backdrop, and the compelling plots that tie it all together. And considering that it was renewed for three more books (11 - 13), McGuire is clearly doing something right. Time for you to find out why, if you haven't already. Highly recommended.
My other reviews for this series:
Rosemary and Rue (October Daye, #1)
A Local Habitation (October Daye, #2)
An Artificial Night (October Daye, #3)
One Salt Sea (October Daye, #5)
Ashes of Honor (October Daye, #6)
Chimes at Midnight (October Daye, #7)
The Winter Long (October Daye, #8)
A Red-Rose Chain (October Daye, #9)
Once Broken Faith (October Daye, #10)
Several months have passed since we last saw October when LATE ECLIPSES begins, ending whatever relative peace she enjoyed on her off-season. <------I like that tactic, by the way. It makes all the hullabaloo our MC experiences on page feel more realistic, if we know things calm down when we're not looking. *whispers* No one can live in complete chaos 100% of time . . .
Regardless, it must be said that an appropriate alternate title for the fourth installment of Seanan McGuire's OCTOBER DAYE series might be: SHIT ESCALATES.
1. Hateful characters get more hateful.
Most notably, Rasyeline Torquill, although the Queen of the Mists isn't far behind. Basically, if they've got an axe to grind with Toby, they're no longer content to passively nurse their grudge.
SO. Be prepared to grind your teeth, b/c shiesty broads are shiesty.
2. Boys will be boys . . . or cats . . . or USELESS CHICKENS (who literally HIDE their faces when people drive too fast).
Okay, so there's a bit of a triangle. Not much of one, b/c there's a clear front-runner, so mostly it's frustrating that other dude is part of the equation.
BUT.
There were also numerous times when Front-Runner made my heart grow three sizes, b/c it's more and more obvious that he really, really likes our girl. *grins dopily* *giggles like school girl*
So who cares about what's-his-name (the chicken)? #notthisgirl
3. October's mysteriously mysterious heritage becomes MORE shrouded in mystery, even as we get answers.
It's both frustrating and delightful. Truly. It's a talented author who can successfully walk the tightrope of enough-information-to-both-satisfy-and-intrigue, and McGuire manages that balance masterfully. *tips hat*
In short, I was reminded over and over again of all the reasons why OCTOBER DAYE made it to my Top 5 UF Series list: a kick-ass heroine who refuses to quit, no matter the odds, a hilarious and entertaining cast of secondaries (Raf is my current favorite), a hotter-than-HAWT love interest #tybaltismyking, a fantastically fae backdrop, and the compelling plots that tie it all together. And considering that it was renewed for three more books (11 - 13), McGuire is clearly doing something right. Time for you to find out why, if you haven't already. Highly recommended.
My other reviews for this series:
Rosemary and Rue (October Daye, #1)
A Local Habitation (October Daye, #2)
An Artificial Night (October Daye, #3)
One Salt Sea (October Daye, #5)
Ashes of Honor (October Daye, #6)
Chimes at Midnight (October Daye, #7)
The Winter Long (October Daye, #8)
A Red-Rose Chain (October Daye, #9)
Once Broken Faith (October Daye, #10)
November 23, 2016
4.5 The other one was a bit more fun, but I still absolutely loved it!
With every story, I fall more and more in love with the characters. And gah, I can't wait to see them fall in love with each other! You know who I mean, right? October and Tybalt, of course!
Luckily, we see more of them this time. Not as much as I'd like, but we're getting there!
With every story, I fall more and more in love with the characters. And gah, I can't wait to see them fall in love with each other! You know who I mean, right? October and Tybalt, of course!
Luckily, we see more of them this time. Not as much as I'd like, but we're getting there!
August 4, 2016
Best book so far in the October Daye series. Toby doesn’t get so physically beat up in this go-round, plus she actually has a coterie of friends, including women friends, who have her back. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we are headed into Bechdel test territory, with other significant female characters who talk to Toby about significant subjects. This makes my heart happy.
I also got my wish, namely to learn more about Toby’s mother Amandine. Not everything, mind you, McGuire is portioning it out slowly, but I can appreciate that. As long as I’m getting some new intel with each book.
Relationship-wise, Toby is being set up into a bit of a love triangle, not my most favourite thing. Tybalt is winning me over, but Toby is still ambivalent about him. Connor seems to be her front-runner, and McGuire has set him up to be more eligible in this installment. This trope from the paranormal romance genre is one that I could live without, but I seem to be in the minority on that.
Still loving this Fae world and all the beings that inhabit it. Can’t wait to have time to move on to the next book. I’d schedule myself an urban fantasy marathon if I wasn’t scared that it would get hum-drum that way. I suspect is better to save these fluffy books for filler between more serious stuff.
I also got my wish, namely to learn more about Toby’s mother Amandine. Not everything, mind you, McGuire is portioning it out slowly, but I can appreciate that. As long as I’m getting some new intel with each book.
Relationship-wise, Toby is being set up into a bit of a love triangle, not my most favourite thing. Tybalt is winning me over, but Toby is still ambivalent about him. Connor seems to be her front-runner, and McGuire has set him up to be more eligible in this installment. This trope from the paranormal romance genre is one that I could live without, but I seem to be in the minority on that.
Still loving this Fae world and all the beings that inhabit it. Can’t wait to have time to move on to the next book. I’d schedule myself an urban fantasy marathon if I wasn’t scared that it would get hum-drum that way. I suspect is better to save these fluffy books for filler between more serious stuff.
July 13, 2021
"Yes. If you've lost your mind, I'll kill you. Just me, and no one else. I'll take you to the place that no one leaves, and I'll take you there alone."
Goodness, isn't it just romantic, Tybalt!
In Late Eclipses, more troubles find their way to October Daye and Co.; they are busy keeping their heads above water when their loved ones are being slowly poisoned and murdered by unknown killers and.......there is also a crazy faerie Queen out for their blood, making it more difficult to avoid dying. Haha.
It's quite a four stars read, the plot is neat and tight, there are a few twists and turns to keep the story interesting, I like how the story and its characters develop. 4 stars.
Review for book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 2: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review book 3: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 4: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for book 5: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Read
March 3, 2011From the first book, ROSEMARY AND RUE, it has felt like I jumped into the October Daye series “in media res.” Quickly swept away by action and character development, I had for the most part forgotten Toby’s mysterious past. LATE ECLIPSES not only brings it all back, but also explodes Toby’s own preconceived ideas about herself and her heritage. While not a cliff hanger, this book ends poised at the top of an arc, and I can’t wait to read where all of this forward momentum is going to take the series.
If book #3, AN ARTIFICIAL NIGHT, took us out of Toby’s daily life and deep into the mythos of fairy, LATE ECLIPSES stays very much on her home turf. Unfortunately for Toby, that doesn’t mean there isn’t danger and intrigue, it just means her friends and family are in the line of fire. Flitting about Toby’s consciousness, amidst mysterious sicknesses and political attacks, hints of Oleander de Merelands are appearing. One of the people responsible for Toby’s fourteen year stint as a gold fish, the loss of her husband and child, and the twisted madness of her beloved liege lord's daughter, Oleander is one of the boogeymen of fairy, an evil individual and twisted assassin. No one wants to believe that Oleander is back, and even Toby is unsure of her own sanity at the suggestion, adding a psychological twist to a story that I already found compelling.
While the action is certainly non-stop, it was the characters that held my undivided attention. The book starts with glimpses of the home life Toby and May have built for themselves, and in the deadly cascade of events that follows, the possibility that they could lose that relationship was the one thought that really tugged at my heartstrings. In addition to May, Tybalt and Connor both share significant page time. I felt like I learned more about Tybalt and Toby’s past relationship, as well as saw hints of it’s future. However, McGuire isn’t committing Toby to any one romantic path. Connor has always been the one that got away, and despite being married, the sexual tension (and his criminally insane wife) keep things interesting. Tybalt and Connor are two very different men, it may prove to be a Peeta and Gale moment when this tension is resolved.
Overall, Seanan McGuire has done a stellar job of developing her characters while interweaving action and suspense. As much as I enjoyed the romantic tension in LATE ECLIPSES, it was the details about Toby’s family, both blood relation and adopted, that truly touched me. The story as a whole has me on the edge of my seat for ONE SALT SEA in September, I am eager to find out how all this will play out.
Sexual Content: Kissing, mention of prostitution and sexual relationships.
If book #3, AN ARTIFICIAL NIGHT, took us out of Toby’s daily life and deep into the mythos of fairy, LATE ECLIPSES stays very much on her home turf. Unfortunately for Toby, that doesn’t mean there isn’t danger and intrigue, it just means her friends and family are in the line of fire. Flitting about Toby’s consciousness, amidst mysterious sicknesses and political attacks, hints of Oleander de Merelands are appearing. One of the people responsible for Toby’s fourteen year stint as a gold fish, the loss of her husband and child, and the twisted madness of her beloved liege lord's daughter, Oleander is one of the boogeymen of fairy, an evil individual and twisted assassin. No one wants to believe that Oleander is back, and even Toby is unsure of her own sanity at the suggestion, adding a psychological twist to a story that I already found compelling.
While the action is certainly non-stop, it was the characters that held my undivided attention. The book starts with glimpses of the home life Toby and May have built for themselves, and in the deadly cascade of events that follows, the possibility that they could lose that relationship was the one thought that really tugged at my heartstrings. In addition to May, Tybalt and Connor both share significant page time. I felt like I learned more about Tybalt and Toby’s past relationship, as well as saw hints of it’s future. However, McGuire isn’t committing Toby to any one romantic path. Connor has always been the one that got away, and despite being married, the sexual tension (and his criminally insane wife) keep things interesting. Tybalt and Connor are two very different men, it may prove to be a Peeta and Gale moment when this tension is resolved.
Overall, Seanan McGuire has done a stellar job of developing her characters while interweaving action and suspense. As much as I enjoyed the romantic tension in LATE ECLIPSES, it was the details about Toby’s family, both blood relation and adopted, that truly touched me. The story as a whole has me on the edge of my seat for ONE SALT SEA in September, I am eager to find out how all this will play out.
Sexual Content: Kissing, mention of prostitution and sexual relationships.
March 12, 2019
Just when I think it can't get any better it goes and does THIS. I would say it was my favorite so far but who am I kidding, I'll probably say it about every book that comes after this. Superb writing!
Over and out
Over and out
May 2, 2020
Welp, I'm sort've resigning myself to not loving this series at this point. This one failed to entertain, and in fact it just dialed up all my frustrations to eleven, but we also took a bit of turn in direction for some things. So while I am taking a break from this series, for the moment (and maybe to lessen some the strength and immediacy of some of my frustrations), I am at least somewhat curious about the next chapter, as it were.
I mentioned this in my review for book one, and also chatted about it with my buddies (sorrrrry), but the 'blame October for literally everything' was once again strong in this one. The strongest it's ever been. And I just can't with that. There is nothing worse than a one-note villain that makes no attempt to be sane, or rational, and when you get three or four of them in one book? I want to throw myself into traffic.
I also have a bad feeling any inroads we were making on the ship of my choice RE the romance may just be about to take a wrong turn because of.. events. I'm not surprised, because we're dragging this out apparently, but I imagine I'll be less than happy with that.
So, yes, I don't know. There are elements of this series that should be great but there's just so much being kept hidden, and even when a character goes spouting off about new information, even if it's vague, October just shrugs and lets the subject get changed. And considering the big reveals in this one? I want to smack her upside the head. She's not made to be a smart heroine and I do not understand why. It makes it hard to root for her.
But I will read on. I just need a vacation from this world.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
I mentioned this in my review for book one, and also chatted about it with my buddies (sorrrrry), but the 'blame October for literally everything' was once again strong in this one. The strongest it's ever been. And I just can't with that. There is nothing worse than a one-note villain that makes no attempt to be sane, or rational, and when you get three or four of them in one book? I want to throw myself into traffic.
I also have a bad feeling any inroads we were making on the ship of my choice RE the romance may just be about to take a wrong turn because of.. events. I'm not surprised, because we're dragging this out apparently, but I imagine I'll be less than happy with that.
So, yes, I don't know. There are elements of this series that should be great but there's just so much being kept hidden, and even when a character goes spouting off about new information, even if it's vague, October just shrugs and lets the subject get changed. And considering the big reveals in this one? I want to smack her upside the head. She's not made to be a smart heroine and I do not understand why. It makes it hard to root for her.
But I will read on. I just need a vacation from this world.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
April 12, 2016
4.5 Toby you are a Mystery Stars
There are some series that start out really strong and then start to lose momentum and then there are others that start out a bit slow but build over time to become better and better. I would say that the October Daye series definitely falls into the second category.
This series seems to be a bit darker than some of the other UF series I’ve become attached to. There seems to be a slightly grimmlike quality to it and not all the characters that you thought of as staples to the series are going to make it out alive. But that is part of the reason I like this. No character is completely safe and Seanan McGuire might kill someone I care about off at any time.
Still even with all the potential death looming in the air there is still a frivolity and hilarity to Toby. She has even made a new friend in an unlikely place…her Fetch May. Who else do you think would befriend her personal incarnation of death??? Only Toby I think. But I love the addition of May’s character. She might have all of Toby’s previous memories up to the time May was sent to guide Toby to her death but now she is her own person and she isn’t quite like Toby in many ways the most obvious is that she is really quite happy and full of witty retorts and fun observations.
Toby has a few solid friends but she has also made plenty of enemies. It seems that one of them has decided to hit Toby where they think it will hurt the most by taking out her friends. When two of Toby’s friends that are never supposed to get sick fall deathly ill she is thrown into the mix trying to discover what is harming them. But with more enemies to count it is hard to discover who the main culprit behind this latest onslaught is.
But when you are down and out it seems that everyone comes out of the woodwork to take a shot at you. The Queen has found it a perfect time to place a trap for Toby and maybe a few others from her past want in on the torture Toby fun.
Still Toby soldiers on and finally we get a few answers and a lot more question about Toby’s mother and her true heritage.
I will say that I’m really very invested in Toby and the overall arc of the Fae. I’m enjoying the world, the characters and the smaller book to book plots a lot better than the first few books. Overall everything has started to pick up some speed and it will be interesting to see going on what will happen with all the revelations and changes made in this book.
Other great things are scattered throughout too. There is of course Tybalt and I'm still totally on the TnT train, that can't happen soon enough. Surprisingly though besides May I am really loving both Quentin and Raj. I have some new theories about who Quentin might be and I'm thinking maybe we have a future King lurking in our midst. I am completely loving the mentor relationship between Quentin and Toby and love how devoted he is to their friendship. We all need friends like that. Raj on the other hand broke my heart a little in this...like I said before anyone can die and some deaths hit me harder than others but Raj's reaction to one in particular might have hurt the most.
On to the next one as I'm loving all of the stories more and more.
There are some series that start out really strong and then start to lose momentum and then there are others that start out a bit slow but build over time to become better and better. I would say that the October Daye series definitely falls into the second category.
This series seems to be a bit darker than some of the other UF series I’ve become attached to. There seems to be a slightly grimmlike quality to it and not all the characters that you thought of as staples to the series are going to make it out alive. But that is part of the reason I like this. No character is completely safe and Seanan McGuire might kill someone I care about off at any time.
“What's the point of holding on if I can't save the ones that I can't afford to lose?”
Still even with all the potential death looming in the air there is still a frivolity and hilarity to Toby. She has even made a new friend in an unlikely place…her Fetch May. Who else do you think would befriend her personal incarnation of death??? Only Toby I think. But I love the addition of May’s character. She might have all of Toby’s previous memories up to the time May was sent to guide Toby to her death but now she is her own person and she isn’t quite like Toby in many ways the most obvious is that she is really quite happy and full of witty retorts and fun observations.
Toby has a few solid friends but she has also made plenty of enemies. It seems that one of them has decided to hit Toby where they think it will hurt the most by taking out her friends. When two of Toby’s friends that are never supposed to get sick fall deathly ill she is thrown into the mix trying to discover what is harming them. But with more enemies to count it is hard to discover who the main culprit behind this latest onslaught is.
But when you are down and out it seems that everyone comes out of the woodwork to take a shot at you. The Queen has found it a perfect time to place a trap for Toby and maybe a few others from her past want in on the torture Toby fun.
Still Toby soldiers on and finally we get a few answers and a lot more question about Toby’s mother and her true heritage.
“Oh, my dear, what she did to you, what you didn’t know she was doing, and how you fought! Like a lion you fought, never knowing the battle.” Lily sighed. “You were the last of her protections against roses and crossroads and all they meant, and when you failed her, she didn’t know what to do. My foolish princess who thought she’d be a shepherdess, if only she could make you a sheep.”
I will say that I’m really very invested in Toby and the overall arc of the Fae. I’m enjoying the world, the characters and the smaller book to book plots a lot better than the first few books. Overall everything has started to pick up some speed and it will be interesting to see going on what will happen with all the revelations and changes made in this book.
Other great things are scattered throughout too. There is of course Tybalt and I'm still totally on the TnT train, that can't happen soon enough. Surprisingly though besides May I am really loving both Quentin and Raj. I have some new theories about who Quentin might be and I'm thinking maybe we have a future King lurking in our midst. I am completely loving the mentor relationship between Quentin and Toby and love how devoted he is to their friendship. We all need friends like that. Raj on the other hand broke my heart a little in this...like I said before anyone can die and some deaths hit me harder than others but Raj's reaction to one in particular might have hurt the most.
On to the next one as I'm loving all of the stories more and more.
July 26, 2016
Dear Seanan McGuire (Part the Second, since Ali's is Part the First) Please never stop writing. I adore everything you write and can't wait until May for Deadline and October for One Salt Sea and do not know what I will then do when I have to wait an entire year for another Toby Daye book but will try not to whine and pout. Hey, I know! I will read InCryptid! Anyway, in the meantime, I wish you candy corn, cupcakes, large cats and pleasant, well-behaved, well-informed fans, all in appropriately healthy amounts. It's almost an Irish blessing. May all roads rise. kthxbai.
Fondest regards,
Marzie
The Meaty Stuff:
As we get closer to the heart of truth about Toby Daye, things get darker, deeper, scarier, better. Building an ever more fascinating Fae world, McGuire continues to carve an interesting path through urban fantasy with a heroine who is reflective and vulnerable, honorable and brave, all rolled into one mysterious package. I was sad about losses, winced at deep wounds, and was angered at betrayals. I keep saying "This new one is my favorite in the series". And it keeps being true!
BTW, Queen of the Mists, I hate you with white hot passion, how I do!
Fondest regards,
Marzie
The Meaty Stuff:
As we get closer to the heart of truth about Toby Daye, things get darker, deeper, scarier, better. Building an ever more fascinating Fae world, McGuire continues to carve an interesting path through urban fantasy with a heroine who is reflective and vulnerable, honorable and brave, all rolled into one mysterious package. I was sad about losses, winced at deep wounds, and was angered at betrayals. I keep saying "This new one is my favorite in the series". And it keeps being true!
BTW, Queen of the Mists, I hate you with white hot passion, how I do!
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1647896333i/31792110._UX200_CR0,96,200,200_.jpg)
September 17, 2021
This one plays with Toby's own sense of sanity.
When she was turned into a fish for 14 years, one of those people responsible was Oleander de Merelands, a fae assassin known for her cruelty. Now Oleander seems to be back - but nobody believes Toby, and soon she doesn't know whether she ought to believe herself.
This is a solid instalment in the Toby Daye series. Romance-wise, she's now got a thing going on with Connor, her childhood ex. He's a total wet blanket and it frustrates me how little romance the series has, but I keep reading waiting for things to get good with Tybalt.
When she was turned into a fish for 14 years, one of those people responsible was Oleander de Merelands, a fae assassin known for her cruelty. Now Oleander seems to be back - but nobody believes Toby, and soon she doesn't know whether she ought to believe herself.
This is a solid instalment in the Toby Daye series. Romance-wise, she's now got a thing going on with Connor, her childhood ex. He's a total wet blanket and it frustrates me how little romance the series has, but I keep reading waiting for things to get good with Tybalt.
May 14, 2019
This is the book that truly made me love this series. More cryptic clues were dropped while answers to some important questions were revealed. There are so many things about this book that I loved but many of them I can't get into with giving away important plot points.
Toby was trying to determine who was poisoning people especially since some people in high places were blaming her. It was more imperative than ever that she solve the case or her own life would be on the line. Along the way Toby discovered some important things about her heritage.
I adored every moment with Tybalt. Their relationship took a turn in this book but didn't go far enough. *sigh* Anywayseal boy Connor was around more than I would have liked although in one particular instance he was extremely useful to have around. He's so nice but annoys the hell out of me. Maybe it's that he's cock blocking Tybalt. I loved the way so many people came together to help Toby in her time of need. The plot was great and had some truly memorable moments.
Toby was trying to determine who was poisoning people especially since some people in high places were blaming her. It was more imperative than ever that she solve the case or her own life would be on the line. Along the way Toby discovered some important things about her heritage.
I adored every moment with Tybalt. Their relationship took a turn in this book but didn't go far enough. *sigh* Anyway
December 30, 2018
4.5 stars
Re-read: December 2018
Oh man, I love me some Seanan McGuire. And since I want to enjoy the newest October Daye installment (book #12) to the fullest, I decided to re-read this wonderful series. The thing is, I have kind of a love-hate relationship with October Daye. Overall, I love this series, it's very well written, characters have depth, story is really interesting... but it always leaves me kind of depressed. Most of the time, things are going terribly for Toby. Either she is bleeding, being betrayed, running for her life or seeing someone she loves being killed. And even when things are going well for Toby (which is usually the first 5 % and the last 2 % of the book), these books just have some type of sad air to them. Is that just me or is there anyone else who feels this way? I feel like almost every book, Toby loses someone crucial to her and it leaves her broken and happy ends in these books aren't really all that happy.
But back to this specific installment. I loved it. I love how many friends and allies Toby is gradually gaining. I especially loved the party where . And, of course, I adored every scene with Tybalt, because TYBALT. He is just too precious. Plus, there were some interesting plot twists and revelations.
Original review: February 2017
This series is getting more and more intense. I'm used to urban fantasy series gradually getting more and more complex and dramatic, but... this is only fourth book. And there's already been huge revelations about Toby's ancestry and fight with one of the biggest villains of the series.
I mean, McGuire really doesn't mess around. She jumps right in. (Not that I'm complaining.)
I only have one complaint - why was there so little Tybalt? Every scene with him is pure gold. His smiles, gestures, words. How can Toby even think of liking Connor, when Tybalt is there?
By the way, my list of October Daye characters I want to die very slow and painful death is getting longer. Luckily, they are gradually dying even without my assistance.
Re-read: December 2018
Oh man, I love me some Seanan McGuire. And since I want to enjoy the newest October Daye installment (book #12) to the fullest, I decided to re-read this wonderful series. The thing is, I have kind of a love-hate relationship with October Daye. Overall, I love this series, it's very well written, characters have depth, story is really interesting... but it always leaves me kind of depressed. Most of the time, things are going terribly for Toby. Either she is bleeding, being betrayed, running for her life or seeing someone she loves being killed. And even when things are going well for Toby (which is usually the first 5 % and the last 2 % of the book), these books just have some type of sad air to them. Is that just me or is there anyone else who feels this way? I feel like almost every book, Toby loses someone crucial to her and it leaves her broken and happy ends in these books aren't really all that happy.
But back to this specific installment. I loved it. I love how many friends and allies Toby is gradually gaining. I especially loved the party where . And, of course, I adored every scene with Tybalt, because TYBALT. He is just too precious. Plus, there were some interesting plot twists and revelations.
Original review: February 2017
This series is getting more and more intense. I'm used to urban fantasy series gradually getting more and more complex and dramatic, but... this is only fourth book. And there's already been huge revelations about Toby's ancestry and fight with one of the biggest villains of the series.
I mean, McGuire really doesn't mess around. She jumps right in. (Not that I'm complaining.)
I only have one complaint - why was there so little Tybalt? Every scene with him is pure gold. His smiles, gestures, words. How can Toby even think of liking Connor, when Tybalt is there?
By the way, my list of October Daye characters I want to die very slow and painful death is getting longer. Luckily, they are gradually dying even without my assistance.
January 21, 2011
Late Eclipses hits the ground running with a few shocking developments for our favorite changeling, October Daye, but then Toby’s immediately called to see a friend with a suspicious illness. As more fae fall victim to similar complaints, Toby fends off accusations and works to track down an old enemy. She’s caught up in a plot involving revenge, political power, and family intrigue, and not even her most formidable allies can help her with the difficult choice she’ll have to make.
These books keep getting better. I’d say this is the best-paced one of the series, with a solid mix of investigation and action that kept things moving. The world-building continues to be great, it gave good detail about the setting without resorting to tedious info-dumps. One slow-burn subplot took a well-timed turn for the awesome, which, as usual, has me impatient for the next book.
Toby’s grown a lot as a character, but it’s all backed up – unlike some series that seem to change just for change’s sake. Foreshadowing from previous books comes into play here, and while I will say that I suspected something similar to one of the reveals, I didn’t guess it exactly. Considering how predictable urban fantasy has become these days (yes, even among the ones that I like), that makes me a happy reader.
If I have one small complaint, it’s that I’d have liked more reaction, especially more personal reaction, to a particular piece of news from the beginning of the story. I know that Toby got busy pretty damn quick after that, and it’s not as if that part of plot was ignored for the rest of the book. But it was a fairly big deal and I kept expecting to hear more freaking out over it.
Those who are already fans of October Daye will love this one, because it has everything we’ve come to expect. There’s badassery against all odds, sharp humor, tricky fae politics, and unpredictable magic. Also, there’s Tybalt.
If you aren’t reading these books yet, check out Rosemary and Rue (my review), because seriously, you’re missing out.
(originally published at my Urban Fantasy blog)
These books keep getting better. I’d say this is the best-paced one of the series, with a solid mix of investigation and action that kept things moving. The world-building continues to be great, it gave good detail about the setting without resorting to tedious info-dumps. One slow-burn subplot took a well-timed turn for the awesome, which, as usual, has me impatient for the next book.
Toby’s grown a lot as a character, but it’s all backed up – unlike some series that seem to change just for change’s sake. Foreshadowing from previous books comes into play here, and while I will say that I suspected something similar to one of the reveals, I didn’t guess it exactly. Considering how predictable urban fantasy has become these days (yes, even among the ones that I like), that makes me a happy reader.
If I have one small complaint, it’s that I’d have liked more reaction, especially more personal reaction, to a particular piece of news from the beginning of the story. I know that Toby got busy pretty damn quick after that, and it’s not as if that part of plot was ignored for the rest of the book. But it was a fairly big deal and I kept expecting to hear more freaking out over it.
Those who are already fans of October Daye will love this one, because it has everything we’ve come to expect. There’s badassery against all odds, sharp humor, tricky fae politics, and unpredictable magic. Also, there’s Tybalt.
If you aren’t reading these books yet, check out Rosemary and Rue (my review), because seriously, you’re missing out.
(originally published at my Urban Fantasy blog)
November 24, 2018
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August 13, 2017
The best book of the series just yet.
What I genuinely love the most about it is the world building, a clever way to merge a Fae world into a modern San Francisco.
Just a really good urban fantasy that serves as a great buffer for more complicated reads.
What I genuinely love the most about it is the world building, a clever way to merge a Fae world into a modern San Francisco.
Just a really good urban fantasy that serves as a great buffer for more complicated reads.
May 4, 2021
4.5
Yes, it has flaws. Yes, Toby is frustrating when she keeps running back into danger. Yes, it’s ridiculously entertaining, addictive & wonderful.
Yes, it has flaws. Yes, Toby is frustrating when she keeps running back into danger. Yes, it’s ridiculously entertaining, addictive & wonderful.
February 14, 2018
Another great installment of the October Daye series! I stayed up way past my bedtime with this one because as events unfolded I was incredibly nervous for Toby and her allies.
All of the people with animosity towards her step it up big time in this novel. They are out for her blood, her head, her reputation, everything. Not all of their motives are completely clear but jealousy of her or her mother seem to be the main drivers. Of course they are all batshit crazy in the creepy way fae go insane.
Again, there are so many great characters - May, Danny, and of course Tybalt! I especially love how Toby interacts with children and teenagers. She knows how to treat them with respect while still guiding them in the right directions - Quentin, Raj, Karen, and even . Of course I would have loved seeing even more of those characters plus the Luidaeg. Probably any one of them would make their own book series worth reading!
I have a couple minor annoyances - Toby still walks a fine line of TSTL when someone is in danger. Also... Sylvester. He is constantly chiding her for running into danger but then the next moment says he'd let her sacrifice herself for this or that. Overall he comes through for her, but personally I'd have issues if someone gave me conflicting comments like that.
As usual there are some sad and many perilous moments in the book, Toby's world is dangerous and safety is often an illusion.
Overall I greatly enjoyed the book and look forward to the next!
All of the people with animosity towards her step it up big time in this novel. They are out for her blood, her head, her reputation, everything. Not all of their motives are completely clear but jealousy of her or her mother seem to be the main drivers. Of course they are all batshit crazy in the creepy way fae go insane.
Again, there are so many great characters - May, Danny, and of course Tybalt! I especially love how Toby interacts with children and teenagers. She knows how to treat them with respect while still guiding them in the right directions - Quentin, Raj, Karen, and even . Of course I would have loved seeing even more of those characters plus the Luidaeg. Probably any one of them would make their own book series worth reading!
I have a couple minor annoyances - Toby still walks a fine line of TSTL when someone is in danger. Also... Sylvester. He is constantly chiding her for running into danger but then the next moment says he'd let her sacrifice herself for this or that. Overall he comes through for her, but personally I'd have issues if someone gave me conflicting comments like that.
As usual there are some sad and many perilous moments in the book, Toby's world is dangerous and safety is often an illusion.
Overall I greatly enjoyed the book and look forward to the next!
April 1, 2016
30/03/2016 Buddy read with the awesome UF addicts over at BB&B for our weekly October Daye fix :-)
“I choose the evil I know.” I turned to face her. “I can’t be a hero with no one to save, and I can’t run out on them just because I’m scared. I already walked away from this world once. I don’t get to go back.”
Toby’s life is one again upended by evil. Toby's friend Lily, an Undine, and Lady of the Tea Gardens, is sick, and no one knows what is wrong with her. Undine are not supposed to get sick. Ever. And Toby needs to find a way to save Lily and her subjects.
But things are made more difficult when the Queen of the Mists summon Toby to her court. Nothing the Queen does when it comes to Toby, are ever done without ulterior motives. And the Queen has never made her hate of Toby a secret.
Then more of Toby’s friends fall sick, and it seems that someone from her past is targeting those she cares for, laying the groundwork for her demise. And so Toby will have to face a evil from her past, and she has to face the truth of her blood, choosing once again in which world she belongs, before it’s too late.
There were so many things happening in this book. It’s difficult to find the words. I loved that finally we learn more of Toby’s past, about her mother, and about herself. I always thought there was more to the mere half-blood changeling she thought she was, and I was very happy to be right.
There were heartbreaking moments, which I’ve come to expect from this series. And I must say this one is the saddest one yet. My heart bled with the loss that occurred.
Once again Toby was surrounded by wonderful secondary characters, whom I’ve grown to love very much. The fact that they are always there for her, fearing with me for her life and the risks she must take, is always very comforting.
Faerie may not always have been the kindest place to live, but it was still my home. I owed it to Gillian, to May, to Dare, and Tybalt and January and all the others not to say that my life had been a mistake. Not when it had been so intertwined with theirs.
Toby is an amazing and flawed heroine, and I love her because of it. She’s not the most skilled or powerful character, but her courage and loyalty is what makes her such an extra-ordinary character. And by the end of this book, things really changed for Toby. And I can’t wait to see what will happen now.
My only complaint is the lack of romance in this series so far. Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of teasing and hints here and there for a possible romance, but damn, it’s driving me insane. I NEED Tybalt and Toby to get together. NOW.
Sleeping Beauty didn’t prick her finger on a spinning wheel; she was shot by an angry sister who refused to live another day in her shadow.
I love the way this author writes and the world created continues to amaze me. With every book I learn more about the fae and the magic that goes along with them. It’s wonderful and mind-boggling.
This book was exactly the kind of greatness I’ve come to expect from this series. It was amazing and sad and just mind-blowing. I loved it! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
December 23, 2011
Late Eclipses was a magnificent read. Exactly as I've come to expect of Seanan McGuire.
Aside from the excellent world building, blending of traditional lore with the modern world, characterisations and storylines (both for Late Eclipses alone and across the series); it's sheer joy to read such good word craft written in an active voice.
Late Eclipses was a tantalisingly dark read but with enough interest in and care for the characters developed that it really mattered to me what becames of them and how. You feel for their losses and share their little joys and feel Toby's exhaustion as you read.
There are important revelations pertinent to the series arc and future books but Late Eclipses is complete in and of itself, so there's no distaste of cliffhanger to deal with, just the tingly anticipation of the release of One Salt Sea to come.
I'm glad that Seanan McGuire is such a prolific writer of such excellent quality. It's a rare gift and we're lucky to receive the benefits of her output.
Aside from the excellent world building, blending of traditional lore with the modern world, characterisations and storylines (both for Late Eclipses alone and across the series); it's sheer joy to read such good word craft written in an active voice.
Late Eclipses was a tantalisingly dark read but with enough interest in and care for the characters developed that it really mattered to me what becames of them and how. You feel for their losses and share their little joys and feel Toby's exhaustion as you read.
There are important revelations pertinent to the series arc and future books but Late Eclipses is complete in and of itself, so there's no distaste of cliffhanger to deal with, just the tingly anticipation of the release of One Salt Sea to come.
I'm glad that Seanan McGuire is such a prolific writer of such excellent quality. It's a rare gift and we're lucky to receive the benefits of her output.
July 9, 2021
July 2021 Re-read
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Seanan Mcguire did it again; this series keeps getting stronger and stronger.
This fourth volume is filled up to the brim with political intrigue as only Faerie is known to, as Toby finds herself once again in the mire of the Queen's personal vendetta.
This book's "voice" was completely different from the third _ which continues to be my favorite _ in the sense that it creates a whole new crossroads of possibilities. In it, we have heartbreaking developments, courage, madness, revenge, and precious little moments and words, between Toby and the Tybalt, The King of Cats.
I'm just afraid that this possibility of romance will get transformed in a Shakespearean drama. Hope I'm mistaken.
In this volume, some secrets are finally revealed, and we finally get to know what Toby really is.
Toby's mother Amandine really is something...
I love reading about May. She's an amazing character who really took a life of her own( LOL).
I never thought that I would come to love October's fetch (aka her death omen), the way that I do.
I'm going to miss one character, though. Prepare yourself for some ugly crying. :/
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Seanan Mcguire did it again; this series keeps getting stronger and stronger.
This fourth volume is filled up to the brim with political intrigue as only Faerie is known to, as Toby finds herself once again in the mire of the Queen's personal vendetta.
This book's "voice" was completely different from the third _ which continues to be my favorite _ in the sense that it creates a whole new crossroads of possibilities. In it, we have heartbreaking developments, courage, madness, revenge, and precious little moments and words, between Toby and the Tybalt, The King of Cats.
I'm just afraid that this possibility of romance will get transformed in a Shakespearean drama. Hope I'm mistaken.
In this volume, some secrets are finally revealed, and we finally get to know what Toby really is.
Toby's mother Amandine really is something...
I love reading about May. She's an amazing character who really took a life of her own( LOL).
I never thought that I would come to love October's fetch (aka her death omen), the way that I do.
I'm going to miss one character, though. Prepare yourself for some ugly crying. :/
September 18, 2021
And the reread continues (slowly as I also try to read the gigantic pile of books to read and review taking over my home). I somehow always forget just how nuanced these books are. Hints and foreshadowing exists for so many books yet to come still. I love the glimpses and slow reveal about exactly what Toby is. This read I’m very curious what the Luideag was so busy with during this book (because I’m certain it was more than she can’t always be the solution). I love that this is the point Tybalt’s leaking affection starts to be noticed by Toby who is stubborn enough to ignore it even if everyone around her is not. It was also hard to read this one as so many of Toby’s friends and allies are poisoned and she is falsely accused and sentenced for the crimes.
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