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Lords of Avalon #2
Knight of Darkness
For countless centuries, I've been the assassin for the infamous Merlin, even though the woman who birthed me sits at the right hand of our enemy, Morgen le Fey. Now both my mother and Morgen have decided that it's time I take my place on their side of this conflict.
Normally, telling them no wouldn't be a problem, except for the fact that the good guys I protect think that I'm an even worse demon than the ones we fight. Hmm, maybe they're right. I have to say that I do enjoy maiming anyone who gets in my way.
At least until my mother gives me a simple choice: join Morgen's Circle of the Damned or see an innocent woman die. I'm all for saving the innocent, but Merewyn isn't as innocent as she seems. And she's none too fond of the fact that her fate is in my dubious hands. Personally I'm all for taking the easy way out, but leaving her to Morgen is rough, even for me. Now the only way to save both our lives is to face the evilest forces ever known—my mother and Morgen. And two people who know nothing of trust must learn to rely on each other or die: provided we don't kill each other first.
Normally, telling them no wouldn't be a problem, except for the fact that the good guys I protect think that I'm an even worse demon than the ones we fight. Hmm, maybe they're right. I have to say that I do enjoy maiming anyone who gets in my way.
At least until my mother gives me a simple choice: join Morgen's Circle of the Damned or see an innocent woman die. I'm all for saving the innocent, but Merewyn isn't as innocent as she seems. And she's none too fond of the fact that her fate is in my dubious hands. Personally I'm all for taking the easy way out, but leaving her to Morgen is rough, even for me. Now the only way to save both our lives is to face the evilest forces ever known—my mother and Morgen. And two people who know nothing of trust must learn to rely on each other or die: provided we don't kill each other first.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 31, 2006
About the author
Kinley MacGregor
27 books1,538 followersSherrilyn McQueen
aka
Sherrilyn Kenyon & Kinley MacGregor
aka
Sherrilyn Kenyon & Kinley MacGregor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
March 3, 2018
Varian and Merewyn
Such a beautiful love story between two people that were not very lucky with their lives and they don't trust easily!
Varian is the son of Narishka (an evil Adoni who will not hesitate to torture her son in order to make him betray Avalon and become part of Camelot) and Lancelot who was tricked and betrayed by Narishka so he never cared for his son. Varian is partly good and partly evil. Thus noone ever trusted him, although he has chosen the good guys.
Merewyn made a deal with Narishka to avoid an unwanted marriage many centuries ago. As a result shd became unbearably ugly and Narishka's slave without hope. Narishka will make her beautiful again and she will ask her to seduce her son
....who will not be seduced that easily:
And Merewyn will discover a different side of herself and she will become her saviour:
The book is full of magic, awesome otherworldly fights, strange creatures and legends, true love and acceptance of each person's individuality and value.
Blaise, the dragon, is a very interesting character and I would love a book about him.
Such a beautiful love story between two people that were not very lucky with their lives and they don't trust easily!
"Is there not something you would bleed for?"
"No," she said fervently. "Nothing. Why should I? No one would ever bleed for me."
One corner of his mouth turned up in a smoking smile. "Then we're the same, you and I."
"How, so?"
"No one would ever bleed for me either."
Varian is the son of Narishka (an evil Adoni who will not hesitate to torture her son in order to make him betray Avalon and become part of Camelot) and Lancelot who was tricked and betrayed by Narishka so he never cared for his son. Varian is partly good and partly evil. Thus noone ever trusted him, although he has chosen the good guys.
Merewyn made a deal with Narishka to avoid an unwanted marriage many centuries ago. As a result shd became unbearably ugly and Narishka's slave without hope. Narishka will make her beautiful again and she will ask her to seduce her son
....who will not be seduced that easily:
When that moment comes, I won't save you.
And Merewyn will discover a different side of herself and she will become her saviour:
I won't ever be a fool again
The book is full of magic, awesome otherworldly fights, strange creatures and legends, true love and acceptance of each person's individuality and value.
Blaise, the dragon, is a very interesting character and I would love a book about him.
April 2, 2018
Talk about two characters with tragic back stories! They were both better than those from the first book though and they really grew on me as the story unfolded.
Blaise was back! He really needs his own book.
I actually didn't mind the cursed to be an old hag thing. (She was mostly young though.) But the rest of the storyline was nothing special, lots of trudging through a haunted forest.
There was a mysterious character who stepped in to help the hero in the very end of the book. He felt rather random. Maybe Kenyon had plans for him to be the next main character? (At least he wasn't a Deus Ex Machina like I feared.)
Blaise was back! He really needs his own book.
I actually didn't mind the cursed to be an old hag thing. (She was mostly young though.) But the rest of the storyline was nothing special, lots of trudging through a haunted forest.
There was a mysterious character who stepped in to help the hero in the very end of the book. He felt rather random. Maybe Kenyon had plans for him to be the next main character? (At least he wasn't a Deus Ex Machina like I feared.)
September 24, 2015
The second book in the Lords of Avalon series by Kinley MacGregor. Varian duFey swore allegiance to Merlin but has never been accepted by the other knights. Merlin sends him to collect the body of a tortured and murdered knight and runs into his "beloved" mother, Narishka duFey. She kicked him out as a child but now has decided he has a use. So she tries to convince Varian to return to the evil Camelot and serve Morgan le Fey. When he shows a kindness to an old crone it gives his mother an idea on how to turn her son.
Merewyn was once a great beauty but when faced with marrying an old man she makes a deal with Narishka to become ugly and ends up Narishka's slave. Now she is told to show kindness to Varian and she will be restored her beauty.
It reminded me of Monty Python meets The Princess Bride meets Lord of the Rings. Monty Python because of the jokes and references of the Monty Python movies. The Princess Bride because their travels take them to the Pit of Despair and other interesting places. And the Lord of the Rings because of the magic and the fantasy setting. Fun and corny and entertaining. Good series so far and I look forward to reading more.
Merewyn was once a great beauty but when faced with marrying an old man she makes a deal with Narishka to become ugly and ends up Narishka's slave. Now she is told to show kindness to Varian and she will be restored her beauty.
It reminded me of Monty Python meets The Princess Bride meets Lord of the Rings. Monty Python because of the jokes and references of the Monty Python movies. The Princess Bride because their travels take them to the Pit of Despair and other interesting places. And the Lord of the Rings because of the magic and the fantasy setting. Fun and corny and entertaining. Good series so far and I look forward to reading more.
November 23, 2010
This installment wasn't as good as the first one for sure. What I loved the most about the first one was the amazing plot, the great main characters as well as the secondary, and their personalities. You had a very brave and strong warrior who was supposed to be the most evil creature but once he met his heroine he just simply loved her and was able to change. I know it may sound corny but it really wasn't because it was amazingly written.
But this story was cheesy. It was like reading a mix with robin hood and the beauty and the beast. I just think the plot wasn't good and the bad guys in this one were terrible. But there were many, many funny moments that made me laugh hard several times. That's the only reason I'm giving 3 stars to this one. I don't like corny, sorry. Still Kenyon's writing style is terrific and I really enjoyed the story. But the first one was way better. I will read the next one for sure because I love the characters and the Arthurian related plot. But the romance in this story wasn't good at all for me.
But this story was cheesy. It was like reading a mix with robin hood and the beauty and the beast. I just think the plot wasn't good and the bad guys in this one were terrible. But there were many, many funny moments that made me laugh hard several times. That's the only reason I'm giving 3 stars to this one. I don't like corny, sorry. Still Kenyon's writing style is terrific and I really enjoyed the story. But the first one was way better. I will read the next one for sure because I love the characters and the Arthurian related plot. But the romance in this story wasn't good at all for me.
March 29, 2021
I enjoyed Varian in this so much. He's all dark and broody and yet with the soft heart hidden underneath it all. Of course his mother is evil and he's doing everything he can to stay on the side of good. He may hate his father, Lancelot, but he idolizes Arthur and blames himself for how things ended at the fall of Camelot.
Merewyn has spent centuries with the appearance of a crone and been abused by Narishka and anyone in Morgan's Circle of the Damned. The only person to ever offer her a kindness is now the person she's supposed to betray if she wants to get her beauty back and escape from Narishka's control.
This was a good adventure as these two work to escape Morgan Le Fey's clutches and those of her evil court. I enjoy the way this version of Avalon is depicted. There's some interesting ideas here and the different Merlin's, that it is a genetic line and the powers that come along with it. Varian's history has made him an outcast and yet he sticks true to the principles of Arthur's court. His darker side of his nature is directed by the Merlin to keep them all safe. He never expected to be around anyone as pure as Merewyn, let alone have her like him at all. Learning to trust each other is a hard path, but one that they must overcome if there's hope for the future.
I'm really looking forward to jumping back into the Dark Hunters series to get caught up and figure out how this world will eventually intersect with what we know from that world.
Merewyn has spent centuries with the appearance of a crone and been abused by Narishka and anyone in Morgan's Circle of the Damned. The only person to ever offer her a kindness is now the person she's supposed to betray if she wants to get her beauty back and escape from Narishka's control.
This was a good adventure as these two work to escape Morgan Le Fey's clutches and those of her evil court. I enjoy the way this version of Avalon is depicted. There's some interesting ideas here and the different Merlin's, that it is a genetic line and the powers that come along with it. Varian's history has made him an outcast and yet he sticks true to the principles of Arthur's court. His darker side of his nature is directed by the Merlin to keep them all safe. He never expected to be around anyone as pure as Merewyn, let alone have her like him at all. Learning to trust each other is a hard path, but one that they must overcome if there's hope for the future.
I'm really looking forward to jumping back into the Dark Hunters series to get caught up and figure out how this world will eventually intersect with what we know from that world.
April 21, 2008
Absolutely loved it! To quote again: Unputdownable! In the first chapter, I was instantly hooked, and I had a damn hard time trying to put this book down! The characters have distinct personalities, especially Varian, and I loved the banter between characters. I loved his 'take shit from no one' attitude, it suited him well. And the way he instigates... this book makes you laugh while holding your breath to see what happens next. And darn it, after checking out her website, I didn't realize that she'd put an anthology in between Sword of Darkness and Knight of Darkness, titled Elemental. Looks like I'm hunting for another book! To the gang at Coles, see you Friday! LOL! As much as I've loved Angela Knight's version of Avalon and Camelot, I adore Kinley's just as much. This is definitely an awesome series!
November 13, 2015
This is the second book in the Lords of Avalon series by Kinley MacGregor also known as Sherrilyn Kenyon. I don’t believe there are any more books in the series but the idea and at least one of the characters (Blaise) are continued in the last two books that were released of the Dark-Hunter series, Son of No One and Dragonbane.
Long ago, the realms of Avalon and Camelot were separated from the realm of man. After King Arthur was defeated and killed, the evil Morgen Le Fey took over Camelot while the good guys took over Avalon.
Varian is the son of Lancelot and an evil woman named Narishka who is one of Morgen Le Fey’s minions. Because of his mother’s trickery to get into Lancelot’s bed, Lancelot never treated Varian very well and none of the other knights in Avalon like or trust Varian except for Merlin who uses him as her assassin.
When Merlin learns that one of the six Grail Knights has been killed, Merlin knows she has a spy in her ranks so she sends Varian to find out what happened. The existence of the Grail Knights is only known by a select few and if Morgen learns the identities of the remaining five, she could find the Grail and become the most powerful person in the universe. Each Grail Knight knows a piece of the puzzle to unlock the whereabouts of the Grail.
Merewyn used to be the most beautiful woman on Earth, said to be even more beautiful than Helen of Troy. When her father tried to marry her off, Merewyn made a deal with Narishka to become ugly so that the man would not want to marry her and in return she would become Narishka’s servant for one cycle of the moon. But Narishka tricked her because in the land of Glastonbury, a land that was also sucked up when Avalon and Camelot were ripped from the realm of man, the cycle of the moon never completes so Merewyn has been Narishka’s servant for centuries while maintaining her hideous appearance.
Everyone in Glastonbury and Camelot treat Merewyn with disdain and disgust because of her hideous appearance but when Varian goes to Glastonbury to find out what happened to the Grail Knight, he is kind to Merewyn. Narishka sees this and realizes Varian’s one weakness is compassion and decides to use it against him. Narishka slaps a golden bracelet that negates magick onto Varian and imprisons him in Camelot. She makes a deal with Merewyn to give back her beauty and freedom if she agrees to be nice to Varian and take him food and water.
Varian sees through the rouse though and tells Merewyn that he knows she is the same person as the hideous creature and that he knows what his mother is trying to do. Narishka wants him to come to work for the dark side. Merewyn asks Varian if he will take him with her if she frees him and he agrees so Merewyn gets Blaise to help them.
We met Blaise in the first book. I actually liked Blaise better than any of the other characters in the Lords of Avalon series because of his sarcastic wit and his admitted save-his-own-butt attitude. He is a mandrake which is a dragon mixed with some other species but Blaise was abandoned by his family because of his Albinism. In his human form, he is almost blind but that does not make him any less lethal. He lives in Camelot acting as one of the bad guys but he is a spy for Merlin. The reason Merewyn knew that he would help them is because she saw the mark on his shoulder while he was bathing in the river but never knew what it was until the Grail Knight was killed and she saw the same mark on his shoulder. Merewyn knows that Blaise is also a Grail Knight.
Blaise and Merewyn are able to free Varian but unable to take the bracelet off his arm so he cannot use his magick to flash them out of the realm. They end up having to run to the Valley of No Return which is exactly what it sounds like. Morgen banishes all her lovers there once she gets bored of them. No one has ever returned and it is said that the land itself is treacherous with still water that explodes and trees that start on fire. Varian, Merewyn and Blaise may be stuck there forever.
This book was okay but lacked the wow-factor that I associate with Sherrilyn Kenyon’s writing. It is probably because she wrote it a long time ago…at least I think. If anyone has ever followed my reviews, they would know that Sherrilyn Kenyon is my favorite author of all time so to say anything negative makes me feel like I am betraying her. I think if this were any other author, I might have loved the book but because I have set Sherrilyn on my really ornate and beautiful imaginary pedestal, I hold her to a higher standard than other authors. I know it is unfair to her yet I can’t help it. If I could just believe Kinley MacGregor was a separate person from Sherrilyn Kenyon, I could really like this book because I would not have set my expectations so high.
www.paranormalromanceslut.com
Long ago, the realms of Avalon and Camelot were separated from the realm of man. After King Arthur was defeated and killed, the evil Morgen Le Fey took over Camelot while the good guys took over Avalon.
Varian is the son of Lancelot and an evil woman named Narishka who is one of Morgen Le Fey’s minions. Because of his mother’s trickery to get into Lancelot’s bed, Lancelot never treated Varian very well and none of the other knights in Avalon like or trust Varian except for Merlin who uses him as her assassin.
When Merlin learns that one of the six Grail Knights has been killed, Merlin knows she has a spy in her ranks so she sends Varian to find out what happened. The existence of the Grail Knights is only known by a select few and if Morgen learns the identities of the remaining five, she could find the Grail and become the most powerful person in the universe. Each Grail Knight knows a piece of the puzzle to unlock the whereabouts of the Grail.
Merewyn used to be the most beautiful woman on Earth, said to be even more beautiful than Helen of Troy. When her father tried to marry her off, Merewyn made a deal with Narishka to become ugly so that the man would not want to marry her and in return she would become Narishka’s servant for one cycle of the moon. But Narishka tricked her because in the land of Glastonbury, a land that was also sucked up when Avalon and Camelot were ripped from the realm of man, the cycle of the moon never completes so Merewyn has been Narishka’s servant for centuries while maintaining her hideous appearance.
Everyone in Glastonbury and Camelot treat Merewyn with disdain and disgust because of her hideous appearance but when Varian goes to Glastonbury to find out what happened to the Grail Knight, he is kind to Merewyn. Narishka sees this and realizes Varian’s one weakness is compassion and decides to use it against him. Narishka slaps a golden bracelet that negates magick onto Varian and imprisons him in Camelot. She makes a deal with Merewyn to give back her beauty and freedom if she agrees to be nice to Varian and take him food and water.
Varian sees through the rouse though and tells Merewyn that he knows she is the same person as the hideous creature and that he knows what his mother is trying to do. Narishka wants him to come to work for the dark side. Merewyn asks Varian if he will take him with her if she frees him and he agrees so Merewyn gets Blaise to help them.
We met Blaise in the first book. I actually liked Blaise better than any of the other characters in the Lords of Avalon series because of his sarcastic wit and his admitted save-his-own-butt attitude. He is a mandrake which is a dragon mixed with some other species but Blaise was abandoned by his family because of his Albinism. In his human form, he is almost blind but that does not make him any less lethal. He lives in Camelot acting as one of the bad guys but he is a spy for Merlin. The reason Merewyn knew that he would help them is because she saw the mark on his shoulder while he was bathing in the river but never knew what it was until the Grail Knight was killed and she saw the same mark on his shoulder. Merewyn knows that Blaise is also a Grail Knight.
Blaise and Merewyn are able to free Varian but unable to take the bracelet off his arm so he cannot use his magick to flash them out of the realm. They end up having to run to the Valley of No Return which is exactly what it sounds like. Morgen banishes all her lovers there once she gets bored of them. No one has ever returned and it is said that the land itself is treacherous with still water that explodes and trees that start on fire. Varian, Merewyn and Blaise may be stuck there forever.
This book was okay but lacked the wow-factor that I associate with Sherrilyn Kenyon’s writing. It is probably because she wrote it a long time ago…at least I think. If anyone has ever followed my reviews, they would know that Sherrilyn Kenyon is my favorite author of all time so to say anything negative makes me feel like I am betraying her. I think if this were any other author, I might have loved the book but because I have set Sherrilyn on my really ornate and beautiful imaginary pedestal, I hold her to a higher standard than other authors. I know it is unfair to her yet I can’t help it. If I could just believe Kinley MacGregor was a separate person from Sherrilyn Kenyon, I could really like this book because I would not have set my expectations so high.
www.paranormalromanceslut.com
March 24, 2013
The mix of pseudo-arturian lore, chick-lit cheesyness and pnr wasn't to my tastes. The resulting dish wasn't sure what it wanted to be.
There's nothing of the bad-ass antihero the blurb promised. The plot was weak (as it lacked the foundation on which to be build, namely a story. There were only glimpses of it.)
I can't even say it was steamy < grin >. And I agree the never-ending quotes were annoying.
There's nothing of the bad-ass antihero the blurb promised. The plot was weak (as it lacked the foundation on which to be build, namely a story. There were only glimpses of it.)
I can't even say it was steamy < grin >. And I agree the never-ending quotes were annoying.
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June 12, 2011
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book. This one's got 2 parts.
This book is interesting but I'm still not feeling it. There are plenty of funny scenes I really enjoyed. But the fact that Varian's way of talking and all sorts of 21st century references (including the movie 'Monty Python') kinda killing the fun for me.
Varian doesn't belong to any world, neither in Camelot nor in Avalon. His mother is an Adoni, Narishka, who's Morgen's right hand and his father was Lancelot himself. He wasn't born in love and affection so knows nothing of it. From an early age, after being abandoned by his selfish mother and equally careless father, Varian was greatly influenced by king Arthur and has since decided to take the way of the good. But, it hasn't really paid off. He lives in Avalon, but to everyone's scorn and contempt. Merlin likes him but only because he does the jobs other knights won't think of doing, which mean all kinds of dirty jobs. But, Varian is not broody, at least not in the obvious way and he's long since taken it all in stride. So, when Merlin comes to him telling him that there's a betrayer amongst them, Varian knew he's going to have to 'screw' himself again. Since he's the one who can visit both the worlds easily, it's him that Merlin wants. Very reluctantly, Varian agrees to find out who's given away the information on Grail Knights which led Morgen and her MODs kill one of them. It's a serious issue and can't be avoided.
Merewyn was a spoil princess of some country but to escape a marriage she didn't want, she bargained her beauty for freedom with an Adoni. These creatures are renowned for their beauty as well as their deceitful ways and selfishness (also lust, since they're part Incubus). Me? All goggle-eyed! So, Merewyn was made a hag and a servant, lived for centuries even though she used to be a human. Merewyn wants out. And, Narishka has a plan for her.
So, Varian goes to Glastonbury, a place that's situated between Avalon and Camelot. The inhabitants here are trapped for centuries because of the veil that separated the two worlds and taken these out of the human realm. They can't go to Avalon, yet can't venture into Camelot. It's a pityful existence no doubt as their families have perished a long time ago. They're a surly and cruel lot, as circumstances made them. Varian tries to get some information out of it and meets his mother. She tries to talk him into joining Morgen's side. Varian scoffs her offer off and returns with the body of the dead Grail Knight. While talking to his mother, he rescues the hag, her mother's servant, from being abused by men because Varian believes in standing up for people who can't lookout for themselves.
After handing over the body, Varian decides to venture to Camelot for more information; mostly, to meet the leader of the MODs. It's a disgusting job (and believe me, pretty yukky, the way MODs are). As Varian goes there, finds his mother again, cuddling with that creature. Narishka sweet talked him into believing she wants to talk to him but instead imprisons him to make him join Morgen's side, by any means which includes severe torture. She also put on a band in his wrist to stop his magic. Oh mommy, you're great! And toture him she does as Varian doesn't give in. After failing to sway him, Narishka sets her plan of giving back Merewyn's beauty and orders her to seduce him to bring him onto their side. In return, Merewyn'll get her freedom from servitude.
Although she didn't like it, Merewyn was even willing to do that but when she sees Varian in that cell, all bruised and battered and bloodied, her resolve falters. She remembers him from his kindness but as she takes care of him, she knows she most probably can't betray him. And, Varian is lost in her gentle touch and craves for it when she's not here, looks forward for her visits. And, they exchange words on things, in one such incidents Varian let Merewyn know that he knows she's that hag he saved, also why she's doing it. Then, Merewyn knowing Narishka won't possibly let her go, decides to help Varian and in return, asks for his help to protect her.
Then comes Blaise the mandrake, whom we already met in Sword of Darkness. He was my most favorite secondary character there, here he keeps his record. Blaise is here, spying for Merlin and knows Merewyn for centuries. As he agrees, Varian tells him to take him to the Valley of No Return. In this valley, Morgen abandons her lovers (oh, that b*tch!) after they fail to please her. Me? Disgusted even more! Varian thinks he'll find some way to help themselves out. But, it proves to be harder than he thought it'd be and after a long battle with gargoyles and dragons (proven kinda impossible since Varian can't fully used his magic for that band) and more help from Blaise, they're finally in the Valley. Blaise also took a huge risk and knows he can't go back to Camelot since it's now known he's helping them.
Their journey was really fun to read. Here they meet all sorts of weird things, trees that spew fire and aptly termed as fyrebaums *wink wink* and sylphs made of fire. They also met a triplet brothers, one of whom tried to kidnap Merewyn for ahem... you know what. 300 yrs of celibacy does that to men! They're, of course, Morgen's former lovers (she's known to have twins and triplets as lovers, at the same time! *gag*). But, after one incident that was followed by a bit too much of truth and one of the brothers becoming a ferret (don't look at me, it's all in the book!), they're abandoned here and been like that ever since. Varian also learns that Emrys Penmerlin is alive and lives here, too. Don't even get me starting on the imbecilic things he and a Sylph named Nimue do to get back at each-other. Even though they didn't really trust the triplet, Varian and Blaise decide to follow them to get to Emrys in hopes that he'll help them out.
Since I haven't seen 'Monty Python', all the references were wasted on me. I think, too much of the movie was inserted here, as Merewyn even sings songs with Blaise from it (hope I'm right and not mixing it all up!). On the bright side, I've learned what 'Montezuma's revenge' is and not from personal experience! Ahemm!!! Moving on, what I most enjoyed in this journey was when Merewyn falls into a 'pit of despair'. Hooboy! I did love what her somewhat ermm, loosened tongue says to the men. IT WAS HILARIOUSSSSS! One should only read this book for this scene. :p
********************
Ok, I seriously loved this book but sad that I have to wait til 2013 for the next one. No author should be so cruel and do that! I heartily sympathize with the ones who've been waiting since 2006. If the books in a series is so far off in between, it takes away loads of fun. Same thing happened in Brotherhood/MacAllister ones, too many things remained unresolved, which certainly left me hanging and with a bad feeling. Anyway, though it wasn't as intense as Sword of Darkness but it certainly was funny and sweet (while I did my best to ignore "Lost reruns" in Avalon!). For that I'm giving it a 4.5 stars.
The book, as I've mentioned before, takes place mostly through their journey. They encounter more weird things on the way, one was a goylestone, from which gargoyles are born. These are like baby gargoyles, yes I agree with you Merewyn. They were attacked by some of those but Blaise shooed them away. These are scared of dragons since ... well, it's in the book. :p Then, one of them (and I loved this scene) comes back and takes Merewyn as it's mom. Seriously, it was cute (so was it's naming process). :p And, the way the triplets tease Varian and Merewyn about it was hilarious. Then again, this book has so many hilarious moments such as this, mostly their teasing/bantering and lord, I loved Blaise. I pray and hope that KM will give him a book, though I don't know, the way she's going, I'd be around to read that. :/
On the way, Narishka tried to talk to (through thoughts) Varian and threaten him. Varian, as usual, scoffs her off. Blaise tells Merewyn of Varian's past, how he was conceived (it was some story!) and how cruel his parents, stepmother and half-brother had been to him. I felt so much for the man! Merewyn does too. Then, through an incident, she finds out Varian is a grail knight. She already knew that Blaise is one, too but she's scared that Varian might kill her if he knows she knows (because of the ruthless Adoni blood in him). But, that never happens, in contrast, Varian is always taking care of her. I didn't like the way first love scene happened. Narishka started playing with their minds and Merewyn thought she's becoming ugly again. Becoming scared, she pleads Varian to make love to her since she knew no one will look at her once she's ugly. Amazingly, being with the Adoni taught her well of all things in bed skills. She saw many stuffs in Camelot since this race doesn't particularly mind showing off! Only Merewyn was short of experience because of the way she looked.
Afterwards, it was sad that she started looking like a hag and the pity she saw in everyone's eyes. But, Varian tells her he'd care for her no matter what. At first, of course Merewyn doesn't believe him but later when she does, she returns to her original state and they all understood what Narishka was trying to do. Then, they reach the valley proper and sees the beautiful lands that Emrys and Nimue keep hidden from Morgen and the other evil. Turns out, Nimue is related to Varian, being his paternal grandmother's sister and all that. Then Emrys comes out to meet them and they learn that when they aren't fighting, Nimue and Emrys make out like bunnies! *coughcough* And, that scene was hilarious (again), Blaise being Emrys's adoptive son and all. :p
But, Emrys and Nimue tells Varian they're stuck here since they'd never risk Morgen knowing about it. And, kinda forcefully, they transport Varian, Merewyn and Blaise into a cottage. A week goes by, Beau the gargoyle takes its form and Varian falls seriously ill. It happens because his power was locked inside him for too long. Nimue and Emrys do nothing to help them out as Varian slips into a coma. A desperate Merewyn, to save him, makes another bargain, this time with Dame Fortune. Merewyn helps to break the band that held Varian's power and he gets well. But Emrys comes to them to tell them Morgen knows about this place now and she's heading this way. Varian sends Blaise, Merewyn and Beau to Avalon.
Afterwards, Varian meets Faran, the archer from Sword of Darkness. They both fight, with the triplets joining them. One of them attacks Varian to get back into Morgen's good graces (moron of the first order!), while another saves him. Varian regains his consciousness in Avalon and decides to go to Camelot to face his mother and Morgen. Merewyn isn't happy about it. BTW: because of her bargain, she'd lost her ability to speak. Merewyn tries distracting Varian by making love to him and then, when that didn't deter him, she hits him in the head and asks Narishka to take her. Unfortunately, she drags Varian into this whether she liked it or not. Morgen and Narishka inform Merewyn she's pregnant. Boy, I wanted to kill both of these b*tch every time they called Merewyn a 'whore', while these two have been the biggest whores of them all from the beginning of time! Morgen did the same to Seren, too.
But, I digress. Narishka imprisons Merewyn. When Varian regains consciousness again, he learns of it all. But, knowing that Merewyn is pregnant, he gets all worked up. Here, Dame Fortune steps in. Varian tells him he's going to rescue her anyway, doesn't matter what happens to him. And, going back to Camelot, that's what he does. Dame Fortune, knowing he cares about Merewyn, goes there to help him out. Then, as they face his mother, Varian takes the blast from his mother when she was trying to get Merewyn ugly again. With it, Varian turns into an ugly, old man. And this scene was really beautiful, how Merewyn begs Dame Fortune, who is very handsome himself, to let her go of the bargain. Varian's all that matters to her. I loved it. I also loved the epilogue, where she meets Seren and the betrayer was found. And, I was left with more empty feelings as I really don't feel like waiting for 2 more yrs for the next book. :/
This book is interesting but I'm still not feeling it. There are plenty of funny scenes I really enjoyed. But the fact that Varian's way of talking and all sorts of 21st century references (including the movie 'Monty Python') kinda killing the fun for me.
Varian doesn't belong to any world, neither in Camelot nor in Avalon. His mother is an Adoni, Narishka, who's Morgen's right hand and his father was Lancelot himself. He wasn't born in love and affection so knows nothing of it. From an early age, after being abandoned by his selfish mother and equally careless father, Varian was greatly influenced by king Arthur and has since decided to take the way of the good. But, it hasn't really paid off. He lives in Avalon, but to everyone's scorn and contempt. Merlin likes him but only because he does the jobs other knights won't think of doing, which mean all kinds of dirty jobs. But, Varian is not broody, at least not in the obvious way and he's long since taken it all in stride. So, when Merlin comes to him telling him that there's a betrayer amongst them, Varian knew he's going to have to 'screw' himself again. Since he's the one who can visit both the worlds easily, it's him that Merlin wants. Very reluctantly, Varian agrees to find out who's given away the information on Grail Knights which led Morgen and her MODs kill one of them. It's a serious issue and can't be avoided.
Merewyn was a spoil princess of some country but to escape a marriage she didn't want, she bargained her beauty for freedom with an Adoni. These creatures are renowned for their beauty as well as their deceitful ways and selfishness (also lust, since they're part Incubus). Me? All goggle-eyed! So, Merewyn was made a hag and a servant, lived for centuries even though she used to be a human. Merewyn wants out. And, Narishka has a plan for her.
So, Varian goes to Glastonbury, a place that's situated between Avalon and Camelot. The inhabitants here are trapped for centuries because of the veil that separated the two worlds and taken these out of the human realm. They can't go to Avalon, yet can't venture into Camelot. It's a pityful existence no doubt as their families have perished a long time ago. They're a surly and cruel lot, as circumstances made them. Varian tries to get some information out of it and meets his mother. She tries to talk him into joining Morgen's side. Varian scoffs her offer off and returns with the body of the dead Grail Knight. While talking to his mother, he rescues the hag, her mother's servant, from being abused by men because Varian believes in standing up for people who can't lookout for themselves.
After handing over the body, Varian decides to venture to Camelot for more information; mostly, to meet the leader of the MODs. It's a disgusting job (and believe me, pretty yukky, the way MODs are). As Varian goes there, finds his mother again, cuddling with that creature. Narishka sweet talked him into believing she wants to talk to him but instead imprisons him to make him join Morgen's side, by any means which includes severe torture. She also put on a band in his wrist to stop his magic. Oh mommy, you're great! And toture him she does as Varian doesn't give in. After failing to sway him, Narishka sets her plan of giving back Merewyn's beauty and orders her to seduce him to bring him onto their side. In return, Merewyn'll get her freedom from servitude.
Although she didn't like it, Merewyn was even willing to do that but when she sees Varian in that cell, all bruised and battered and bloodied, her resolve falters. She remembers him from his kindness but as she takes care of him, she knows she most probably can't betray him. And, Varian is lost in her gentle touch and craves for it when she's not here, looks forward for her visits. And, they exchange words on things, in one such incidents Varian let Merewyn know that he knows she's that hag he saved, also why she's doing it. Then, Merewyn knowing Narishka won't possibly let her go, decides to help Varian and in return, asks for his help to protect her.
Then comes Blaise the mandrake, whom we already met in Sword of Darkness. He was my most favorite secondary character there, here he keeps his record. Blaise is here, spying for Merlin and knows Merewyn for centuries. As he agrees, Varian tells him to take him to the Valley of No Return. In this valley, Morgen abandons her lovers (oh, that b*tch!) after they fail to please her. Me? Disgusted even more! Varian thinks he'll find some way to help themselves out. But, it proves to be harder than he thought it'd be and after a long battle with gargoyles and dragons (proven kinda impossible since Varian can't fully used his magic for that band) and more help from Blaise, they're finally in the Valley. Blaise also took a huge risk and knows he can't go back to Camelot since it's now known he's helping them.
Their journey was really fun to read. Here they meet all sorts of weird things, trees that spew fire and aptly termed as fyrebaums *wink wink* and sylphs made of fire. They also met a triplet brothers, one of whom tried to kidnap Merewyn for ahem... you know what. 300 yrs of celibacy does that to men! They're, of course, Morgen's former lovers (she's known to have twins and triplets as lovers, at the same time! *gag*). But, after one incident that was followed by a bit too much of truth and one of the brothers becoming a ferret (don't look at me, it's all in the book!), they're abandoned here and been like that ever since. Varian also learns that Emrys Penmerlin is alive and lives here, too. Don't even get me starting on the imbecilic things he and a Sylph named Nimue do to get back at each-other. Even though they didn't really trust the triplet, Varian and Blaise decide to follow them to get to Emrys in hopes that he'll help them out.
Since I haven't seen 'Monty Python', all the references were wasted on me. I think, too much of the movie was inserted here, as Merewyn even sings songs with Blaise from it (hope I'm right and not mixing it all up!). On the bright side, I've learned what 'Montezuma's revenge' is and not from personal experience! Ahemm!!! Moving on, what I most enjoyed in this journey was when Merewyn falls into a 'pit of despair'. Hooboy! I did love what her somewhat ermm, loosened tongue says to the men. IT WAS HILARIOUSSSSS! One should only read this book for this scene. :p
********************
Ok, I seriously loved this book but sad that I have to wait til 2013 for the next one. No author should be so cruel and do that! I heartily sympathize with the ones who've been waiting since 2006. If the books in a series is so far off in between, it takes away loads of fun. Same thing happened in Brotherhood/MacAllister ones, too many things remained unresolved, which certainly left me hanging and with a bad feeling. Anyway, though it wasn't as intense as Sword of Darkness but it certainly was funny and sweet (while I did my best to ignore "Lost reruns" in Avalon!). For that I'm giving it a 4.5 stars.
The book, as I've mentioned before, takes place mostly through their journey. They encounter more weird things on the way, one was a goylestone, from which gargoyles are born. These are like baby gargoyles, yes I agree with you Merewyn. They were attacked by some of those but Blaise shooed them away. These are scared of dragons since ... well, it's in the book. :p Then, one of them (and I loved this scene) comes back and takes Merewyn as it's mom. Seriously, it was cute (so was it's naming process). :p And, the way the triplets tease Varian and Merewyn about it was hilarious. Then again, this book has so many hilarious moments such as this, mostly their teasing/bantering and lord, I loved Blaise. I pray and hope that KM will give him a book, though I don't know, the way she's going, I'd be around to read that. :/
On the way, Narishka tried to talk to (through thoughts) Varian and threaten him. Varian, as usual, scoffs her off. Blaise tells Merewyn of Varian's past, how he was conceived (it was some story!) and how cruel his parents, stepmother and half-brother had been to him. I felt so much for the man! Merewyn does too. Then, through an incident, she finds out Varian is a grail knight. She already knew that Blaise is one, too but she's scared that Varian might kill her if he knows she knows (because of the ruthless Adoni blood in him). But, that never happens, in contrast, Varian is always taking care of her. I didn't like the way first love scene happened. Narishka started playing with their minds and Merewyn thought she's becoming ugly again. Becoming scared, she pleads Varian to make love to her since she knew no one will look at her once she's ugly. Amazingly, being with the Adoni taught her well of all things in bed skills. She saw many stuffs in Camelot since this race doesn't particularly mind showing off! Only Merewyn was short of experience because of the way she looked.
Afterwards, it was sad that she started looking like a hag and the pity she saw in everyone's eyes. But, Varian tells her he'd care for her no matter what. At first, of course Merewyn doesn't believe him but later when she does, she returns to her original state and they all understood what Narishka was trying to do. Then, they reach the valley proper and sees the beautiful lands that Emrys and Nimue keep hidden from Morgen and the other evil. Turns out, Nimue is related to Varian, being his paternal grandmother's sister and all that. Then Emrys comes out to meet them and they learn that when they aren't fighting, Nimue and Emrys make out like bunnies! *coughcough* And, that scene was hilarious (again), Blaise being Emrys's adoptive son and all. :p
But, Emrys and Nimue tells Varian they're stuck here since they'd never risk Morgen knowing about it. And, kinda forcefully, they transport Varian, Merewyn and Blaise into a cottage. A week goes by, Beau the gargoyle takes its form and Varian falls seriously ill. It happens because his power was locked inside him for too long. Nimue and Emrys do nothing to help them out as Varian slips into a coma. A desperate Merewyn, to save him, makes another bargain, this time with Dame Fortune. Merewyn helps to break the band that held Varian's power and he gets well. But Emrys comes to them to tell them Morgen knows about this place now and she's heading this way. Varian sends Blaise, Merewyn and Beau to Avalon.
Afterwards, Varian meets Faran, the archer from Sword of Darkness. They both fight, with the triplets joining them. One of them attacks Varian to get back into Morgen's good graces (moron of the first order!), while another saves him. Varian regains his consciousness in Avalon and decides to go to Camelot to face his mother and Morgen. Merewyn isn't happy about it. BTW: because of her bargain, she'd lost her ability to speak. Merewyn tries distracting Varian by making love to him and then, when that didn't deter him, she hits him in the head and asks Narishka to take her. Unfortunately, she drags Varian into this whether she liked it or not. Morgen and Narishka inform Merewyn she's pregnant. Boy, I wanted to kill both of these b*tch every time they called Merewyn a 'whore', while these two have been the biggest whores of them all from the beginning of time! Morgen did the same to Seren, too.
But, I digress. Narishka imprisons Merewyn. When Varian regains consciousness again, he learns of it all. But, knowing that Merewyn is pregnant, he gets all worked up. Here, Dame Fortune steps in. Varian tells him he's going to rescue her anyway, doesn't matter what happens to him. And, going back to Camelot, that's what he does. Dame Fortune, knowing he cares about Merewyn, goes there to help him out. Then, as they face his mother, Varian takes the blast from his mother when she was trying to get Merewyn ugly again. With it, Varian turns into an ugly, old man. And this scene was really beautiful, how Merewyn begs Dame Fortune, who is very handsome himself, to let her go of the bargain. Varian's all that matters to her. I loved it. I also loved the epilogue, where she meets Seren and the betrayer was found. And, I was left with more empty feelings as I really don't feel like waiting for 2 more yrs for the next book. :/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2019
4.5/5 estrellas
Me gustaba pero no me encantaba, sin embargo, en los dos últimos capítulos(algo extensos, por cierto) la autora me atrapó de tal manera que me vi obligada a devorarlos porque es una novela de fantasía romance donde para romper el hechizo el amor debe hacerse presente y yo suspiré de amor cuando llegué a ésa parte. Eso si: es una novela dark y por momentos me recordó al cuento de la Bella y la Bestia.
¿Continuaría leyendo ésta saga? Si, peeero es que los personajes sufren mucho y yo sufrí con ellos. Morgana, la mala de la historia es MUY MALA y yo sufrí con Merrewyn y con Varian.
Debería leerme el libro primero pero por el momento no lo haré.
El guerrero de la Oscuridad es un libro que pertenece a una serie de fantasía que mezcla leyendas, mitos, personajes históricos con saltos en el tiempo y mundos mágicos en una llena de magia pero oscura. La autora ha creado un mundo espectacularmente fantástico y siniestro a la vez.
Me gustaba pero no me encantaba, sin embargo, en los dos últimos capítulos(algo extensos, por cierto) la autora me atrapó de tal manera que me vi obligada a devorarlos porque es una novela de fantasía romance donde para romper el hechizo el amor debe hacerse presente y yo suspiré de amor cuando llegué a ésa parte. Eso si: es una novela dark y por momentos me recordó al cuento de la Bella y la Bestia.
¿Continuaría leyendo ésta saga? Si, peeero es que los personajes sufren mucho y yo sufrí con ellos. Morgana, la mala de la historia es MUY MALA y yo sufrí con Merrewyn y con Varian.
Debería leerme el libro primero pero por el momento no lo haré.
El guerrero de la Oscuridad es un libro que pertenece a una serie de fantasía que mezcla leyendas, mitos, personajes históricos con saltos en el tiempo y mundos mágicos en una llena de magia pero oscura. La autora ha creado un mundo espectacularmente fantástico y siniestro a la vez.
October 26, 2010
I have to laugh... Even on the first page, there was a total flub, although FUNNY AS HELL!
In a historical romance, I never imagined one of the charaters would say "No Shit, Sherlock!" That would be a "Duh" comment geared towards someone stating the obvious deduction with sarcasm toward their brilliance noting the Sherlock Holmes Jab. Not some King Arthur character?? I loved it, though, and it started the book off great for me!
Just another peaceful quick romance fix to fill time. Worth the minutes!
In a historical romance, I never imagined one of the charaters would say "No Shit, Sherlock!" That would be a "Duh" comment geared towards someone stating the obvious deduction with sarcasm toward their brilliance noting the Sherlock Holmes Jab. Not some King Arthur character?? I loved it, though, and it started the book off great for me!
Just another peaceful quick romance fix to fill time. Worth the minutes!
October 27, 2011
I really, really, really liked this! In fact, I liked it more than the first one in the series. It had me laughing so hard in some parts...like when Merewyn fell into the pit of despair and was sooo woeful and complaining, or when Blaise was quoting Monty Python's Holy Grail (and he's a Holy Grail Knight who can time travel and that's how he knows Monty Python). There's a good moral lesson in this - to look past the appearance and into the heart of a person to judge them and love them.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
December 10, 2015
Not as good as the first installment but still very much worth the read four stars for this one
May 7, 2020
Nuggets here, but could have been better written.
April 30, 2023
This series makes me realize I need to be reading lots more fantasy romance! I've always loved the stories of Camelot so I am really interested in this series.
May 10, 2012
Arthurian legend, magic and romance - all stuff I like and brought together in a readable way. The book is second in a series. I read this one first, but book #1 is much better. The explanation of the world/setting is not very clear. I was left wondering about the knights' use of modern slang and the constant Monty Python references until a good way into the book. (The first book of the series eases the reader into the world in a much more absorbable manner.) The Monty Python and the Holy Grail references, somewhat amusing at first, got really annoying after a while.
Shelved as 'dnf-at-all'
September 27, 2024No rating as I did not make it too far into the book. I remember LOVING the first book in this series, so I was excited to finally sit down and read this book #2.
But it opened up with our hero playing a Suduko puzzle and telling the witch lady who he was talking to, "No shit, Sherlock." Something told me that it was taking place in current times... The further I tried to read, the more obvious it became to me that it wasn't my type of storyline that I normally enjoy.
But it opened up with our hero playing a Suduko puzzle and telling the witch lady who he was talking to, "No shit, Sherlock." Something told me that it was taking place in current times... The further I tried to read, the more obvious it became to me that it wasn't my type of storyline that I normally enjoy.
October 1, 2010
I liked the first book better. She took liberties in using 20th century slang in this book but never really told us why. If I hadn't read the first book I wouldn't have known that they can time travel although they didn't do any in this book. I thought it was lazy of her to use so much slang and not stick with the 'talk' of the times the stroy was set in. These books are an intersting take on the Kinght's of the Round Table, Avalon, and King Authur.
August 7, 2023
1.5 stars
Ok, why did I read this? I don't know...call it boredom..call it that reading malais you sometimes get in between books..but let's begin with the review breakdown.
1. editing:
Well the writer didn't correct the issues with this 2nd book in the series.
And again, the editor was asleep at the wheel.
Prologue & epilogue had no points. Glossary, etc. buried at the back of the book.
And the epilogue from book 1 had nothing to do with book 2 so what happened to those characters?
2. characters:
Varian is such an evil character, how am I the reader supposed to root for him as the Hero?
Perhaps, the theme of this series is redemption through true love?
Well ok then, but you can't keep harping on about how cruel all the characters are. How am I supposed to find their redeeming qualities?
Oh..thru the heroine. Yeah..no!
And how old was Merwyn? Centuries old? well, i didn't understand the time period or timeline at all.
She was also repetitive in her regrets and how she was trapped. Then all of a sudden this 'virgin' is able to seduce him?
3. writer:
In book 1, there was a note from the writer before the book starts which explained her inspiration for the series. She said she was working on her thesis about chivalry, etc. not originating w/Medieval England/King Arthur but with the Celts. I would of rather read that as it seems much more interesting than this.
4. arthur:
I thought I knew about Camelot, et al. but as characters & events were described, I realized I didn't. I read the Mallory book in high school which was a while ago so my memory didn't recall everything. I did have to look up several things.
5. the story:
Got ridiculous in middle: quoting Monty python/Spamalot, pit of despair, triplets one a ferret, rock baby gargoyle...
time travel references again which were distracting.
a bit long as it dragged on towards it's conclusion.
I gave it 1 1/2 stars b/c I did read the entire book and some of it did keep my attention but I think this is a weak series by this writer. I would recommend reading anything else she's written.
Ok, why did I read this? I don't know...call it boredom..call it that reading malais you sometimes get in between books..but let's begin with the review breakdown.
1. editing:
Well the writer didn't correct the issues with this 2nd book in the series.
And again, the editor was asleep at the wheel.
Prologue & epilogue had no points. Glossary, etc. buried at the back of the book.
And the epilogue from book 1 had nothing to do with book 2 so what happened to those characters?
2. characters:
Varian is such an evil character, how am I the reader supposed to root for him as the Hero?
Perhaps, the theme of this series is redemption through true love?
Well ok then, but you can't keep harping on about how cruel all the characters are. How am I supposed to find their redeeming qualities?
Oh..thru the heroine. Yeah..no!
And how old was Merwyn? Centuries old? well, i didn't understand the time period or timeline at all.
She was also repetitive in her regrets and how she was trapped. Then all of a sudden this 'virgin' is able to seduce him?
3. writer:
In book 1, there was a note from the writer before the book starts which explained her inspiration for the series. She said she was working on her thesis about chivalry, etc. not originating w/Medieval England/King Arthur but with the Celts. I would of rather read that as it seems much more interesting than this.
4. arthur:
I thought I knew about Camelot, et al. but as characters & events were described, I realized I didn't. I read the Mallory book in high school which was a while ago so my memory didn't recall everything. I did have to look up several things.
5. the story:
Got ridiculous in middle: quoting Monty python/Spamalot, pit of despair, triplets one a ferret, rock baby gargoyle...
time travel references again which were distracting.
a bit long as it dragged on towards it's conclusion.
I gave it 1 1/2 stars b/c I did read the entire book and some of it did keep my attention but I think this is a weak series by this writer. I would recommend reading anything else she's written.
April 27, 2024
Bueno, la historia sigue la subtrama del libro anterior de Lords of Avalon, pero ahora con otros personajes. Aquí tenemos a Varian y a Merewyn. Varian es el hijo de Narishka (una señora que mejor tener lejos) y Lancelot (que por culpa de Narishka pues ha casi renegado de su hijo), y Merewyn es una chica que hizo un trato con Narishka hace años para huir de un matrimonio concertado.
Ambos personajes se encuentran y, debido a su propio pasado y experiencias, no confían el uno en el otro. La historia de amor entre ellos me ha parecido muy meh, la verdad. La he notado demasiado impostada y como que no terminaba de haber química entre ellos.
Se me ha hecho bastante cuesta arriba el libro, porque ni Varian ni Merewyn me terminaban de convencer tampoco como personajes individuales. Si le he dado 2 estrellas ha sido por la subtrama relacionada con el rey Arturo y los caballeros de la tabla redonda, que es lo que de verdad me estaba interesando.
Ambos personajes se encuentran y, debido a su propio pasado y experiencias, no confían el uno en el otro. La historia de amor entre ellos me ha parecido muy meh, la verdad. La he notado demasiado impostada y como que no terminaba de haber química entre ellos.
Se me ha hecho bastante cuesta arriba el libro, porque ni Varian ni Merewyn me terminaban de convencer tampoco como personajes individuales. Si le he dado 2 estrellas ha sido por la subtrama relacionada con el rey Arturo y los caballeros de la tabla redonda, que es lo que de verdad me estaba interesando.
September 28, 2016
Varian du Fey has been serving Merlin as a knight of the round table as an assassin for Merlin, though he was born to Lancelot du Lac and Narishka, an Adorian that sits at Morgen's right hand. Due to the circumstances of his conception, Varian wasn't shown kindness or love and was kicked out of his home and away from Morgen's court.
Varian dislikes the work he's given, he isn't mistreated but he isn't well liked or trusted because of his parents. Reluctantly taking his latest assignment to take part in Morgen's court and find the identity of the grail knights and get the information to Merlin so she can finally defeat Morgen.
Merewyn bargained away her beauty for temporary servitude but circumstances changed the cost to eternally serve Narishka. Though the castle inhabitants aren't kind to her, Varian sympathizes and shows compassion. Narishka sees Varian's compassion as a weakness to be exploited and uses the opportunity to trap him and get him to join Morgen and help her finally defeat Merlin. He has to choose.
This outing presumes you've read its predecessor leaving the reader to fill in many blanks. Such as the time travel which is done off page so the modern slang and conveniences really seem and feel out of place; another is that Camelot has been overrun with the evil, dark magic of Morgen le Fey and that the reader is aware that both Morgen and Merlin are female.
Having read both books of this dark duology and noted Blaise's appearances in Dark Hunter series this is still not a favorite series. With such a convoluted tale, including unnecessary idiosyncrasies (i.e. time travel) it might have been less confusing to layer the story more evenly between the realms of Camelot and man.
Rating:3stars
Varian dislikes the work he's given, he isn't mistreated but he isn't well liked or trusted because of his parents. Reluctantly taking his latest assignment to take part in Morgen's court and find the identity of the grail knights and get the information to Merlin so she can finally defeat Morgen.
Merewyn bargained away her beauty for temporary servitude but circumstances changed the cost to eternally serve Narishka. Though the castle inhabitants aren't kind to her, Varian sympathizes and shows compassion. Narishka sees Varian's compassion as a weakness to be exploited and uses the opportunity to trap him and get him to join Morgen and help her finally defeat Merlin. He has to choose.
This outing presumes you've read its predecessor leaving the reader to fill in many blanks. Such as the time travel which is done off page so the modern slang and conveniences really seem and feel out of place; another is that Camelot has been overrun with the evil, dark magic of Morgen le Fey and that the reader is aware that both Morgen and Merlin are female.
Having read both books of this dark duology and noted Blaise's appearances in Dark Hunter series this is still not a favorite series. With such a convoluted tale, including unnecessary idiosyncrasies (i.e. time travel) it might have been less confusing to layer the story more evenly between the realms of Camelot and man.
Rating:3stars
February 3, 2017
Me encantó de principio a fin, sobe todo por la aparición de Blaise de nuevo y cómo no, de la rocágula, amé a esa cosita.
La relación entre Varian y Merewyn fue de lo más curiosa y aunque un poco ñoña, terminó gustándome.
Aunque el libro se puede leer de manera completamente independiente del anterior y de hecho, lo último que sucede en aquél, no tiene nada que ver con lo que pasa aquí, en Knight of Darkness sucede cierta cosa cerca del final (un alguien), que jamás se explica después y la verdad, eso fue lo que terminé odiando de esta novela. ¿Por qué? Porque hace años que no hay otro libro de Avalon, y tendremos que esperar hasta el 2016 para ver si se explica quién ese ese alguien, a menos, claro está, que tenga que ver con Son of No One... esperen mi reporte al respecto cuando el correo por fin se digne a entregarme mi preorden :/
Cambio y fuera....
La relación entre Varian y Merewyn fue de lo más curiosa y aunque un poco ñoña, terminó gustándome.
Aunque el libro se puede leer de manera completamente independiente del anterior y de hecho, lo último que sucede en aquél, no tiene nada que ver con lo que pasa aquí, en Knight of Darkness sucede cierta cosa cerca del final (un alguien), que jamás se explica después y la verdad, eso fue lo que terminé odiando de esta novela. ¿Por qué? Porque hace años que no hay otro libro de Avalon, y tendremos que esperar hasta el 2016 para ver si se explica quién ese ese alguien, a menos, claro está, que tenga que ver con Son of No One... esperen mi reporte al respecto cuando el correo por fin se digne a entregarme mi preorden :/
Cambio y fuera....
November 30, 2014
Once again, a triumph.
Essentially, once again, taking the concept of the bad guy, and throwing him together with the good girl, Sherri twists the idea of what a "good character" truly is. Both Merewyn and The Assassin are unique characters with a history that ties directly into the plot throughout the book.
Of all the things I loved most about this novel, the one that stands in my mind- aside from the fact that the plot and book concept are totally unique- is the montage of sub characters within this book. The "traveling scene" of both main characters traveling through The Valley of No Return is entirely interesting and supports the story to the fullest measure.
I LOVE this book! Pure and simple and to the point.
Essentially, once again, taking the concept of the bad guy, and throwing him together with the good girl, Sherri twists the idea of what a "good character" truly is. Both Merewyn and The Assassin are unique characters with a history that ties directly into the plot throughout the book.
Of all the things I loved most about this novel, the one that stands in my mind- aside from the fact that the plot and book concept are totally unique- is the montage of sub characters within this book. The "traveling scene" of both main characters traveling through The Valley of No Return is entirely interesting and supports the story to the fullest measure.
I LOVE this book! Pure and simple and to the point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2014
Great book. This is Varian's and Merewyn's story. Varian is the son of Lancelot and Narishka (an Adoni) and Merewyn is a human princess who wanted to escape from marriage to an old kind man. One night she made a bargain with an Adoni and that Adoni was Varian's mother, Narishka. She is evil and right hand to Morgen. Let's just say Merewyn was trapped with Narishka for centuries but when Varian and Merewyn met, their story became full of awesomeness. We get to meet Emrys, Nimue, the valley where no one returns. It was fun book to read. I wonder who is this Faran... he showed up to Seren and now Varian? I wonder if he is Arthur himself or his son... can't wait to find out.
April 25, 2011
This was an author of the month reading challenge, and I found a new author I love!! This book was great! The characters were likable, the banter was witty, it was a nice mix of modern/historical/fantasy/romance. How could you not like that? What really sold me was the Monty Python references and quotes in a Camelot/Avalon setting. Awesome. I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series!!
January 15, 2012
อ่านได้สนุกเพลิดเพลินดีค่ะ
เล่มนี้ไม่ค่อยเน้นต่อสู้อะไรเท่าไหร่
แต่อารมณ์ขันเยอะมาก ..
พระเอกมีภาพลักษณ์ร้ายกาจมาก
แต่อ่าน ๆ แล้วเจอแต่ความดี + อ่อนโยน
ส่วนนางเอก แรก ๆ ไม่ค่อยชอบ หลัง ๆ ก็ยังไม่ค่อยชอบ
มีความเป็นคนสูงมาก .. ฉากหน้าเหมือนนางเอกทั่วๆไป
อ่อนโยน น่ารัก เป็นคนดี
แต่ฉากหลัง .. เมื่อภัยมาถึงตัว ก็จะเกิดอาการเห็นแก่ตัวหน่อย ๆ
ตัวประกอบรอบข้าง ตลกฮากันไปตลอดเรื่อง
ก็อ่านได้เพลิน ๆ ดีค่ะ
เล่มนี้ไม่ค่อยเน้นต่อสู้อะไรเท่าไหร่
แต่อารมณ์ขันเยอะมาก ..
พระเอกมีภาพลักษณ์ร้ายกาจมาก
แต่อ่าน ๆ แล้วเจอแต่ความดี + อ่อนโยน
ส่วนนางเอก แรก ๆ ไม่ค่อยชอบ หลัง ๆ ก็ยังไม่ค่อยชอบ
มีความเป็นคนสูงมาก .. ฉากหน้าเหมือนนางเอกทั่วๆไป
อ่อนโยน น่ารัก เป็นคนดี
แต่ฉากหลัง .. เมื่อภัยมาถึงตัว ก็จะเกิดอาการเห็นแก่ตัวหน่อย ๆ
ตัวประกอบรอบข้าง ตลกฮากันไปตลอดเรื่อง
ก็อ่านได้เพลิน ๆ ดีค่ะ
February 18, 2016
This book is full of great world building and even better characters. Varian is an excellent leading man and any book with Blaise’s dry sarcasm in it is always fun.
The only thing that bothered me a little was how mushy it could get at times. There’s a fine line between romantic and saccharine, and Kenyon toed it many a time in this volume.
The only thing that bothered me a little was how mushy it could get at times. There’s a fine line between romantic and saccharine, and Kenyon toed it many a time in this volume.
December 13, 2011
I am in love with Varian. This book was so far my favourite! I loved the story, the characters and the ending! Everything about it was fun and exciting to read. It was very sweet story with a lot of love between Varian and Mewryn! Can't wait to read the next book! ;)
January 15, 2017
Para engancharme a la lectura tras un par de meses casi sin tocar nada necesitaba leer algo que me gustara asi que opte por una relectura.
Y este libro es uno de mis favoritos
Y este libro es uno de mis favoritos
May 5, 2020
Sooooo... that ending... 😑😑
I was waiting for the works... LITERALLY ...
especially because of how high they'd talked up Varian and his powers...
I thought he was going to shut. the. shit. down.
but alas...
Oh well... 🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️
Varian...
I still liked Varian 💜; despite his not being allowed to flourish to his fullest potential, he hits all my notes in the right way.
He validates everything I said in my review here ➡️ Sword of Darkness.
"Those who are suckled on bitterness and hatred. [...] These men grow to resent those around them. Not by choice, but because whenever they dared to reach out to anyone for comfort, they were met with more anger and hostility. With scorn and brutality it is all they know. All they've ever learned. These men are what they're exposed to."
He isn't my favorite in the series, I didn't connect with him like I thought I would... my heart still belongs to Zarek and a smidge behind him is Kerrigan, but I still liked him nonetheless.
Merewyn...
Sooo, Merewyn in a nutshell:
we were here...
then we went here...
THEN we went here...
➡️ a bunch of stuff happened here...
so naturally I expected us to end up here...
I'll leave the conclusion of where we ended up to you.
so now I feel...
Did I like this book... yes, somewhat... could have been better, but I was willing to take it for what it was... UNTIL that ending!
Maybe I'm overreacting, but I've come to expect more, especially with the characters' books who I connect with. I didn't huff and puff this much with Talon's... for a reason.
Soo, 3 stars it is... cause it was just ok.
Onto the next one... (the reason I embarked on this crazy ride to begin with.) ➡️➡️➡️ Night Play
P. S. In other news...
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