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Nokturn Rising #1
A Sword of Greed and Envy
Lark Kravinoff knows what it takes to be a skilled huntress and a feared warrior. She has worked hard, training for the human uprising against the vicious creatures of the night called Nokturns. Nokturns could be Vampires, Werewolves, or Reapers, all of which give a human plenty of reason to be terrified. But, when a twist of fate forces Lark to fight for her own survival, she finds her life colliding with that of the Nokturns. Her life becomes entangled with a Nokturn who calls himself ‘Ash� and she begins to see a different side of the monsters she has learned to hate. When Lark realizes she isn’t so ordinary after all, and not knowing who she can trust, she has no one to turn to but Ash. As tensions rise between the four factions and civil war seems inevitable, Lark must face difficult decisions that bring her own humanity into question. She must choose to rebel with the human faction, or turn her back on them, leaving their fate in the hands of their predators and possibly sending humans into extinction. Can Lark survive the fall of the blade that threatens the fragile hierarchy of Nokturns? Or will greed and envy consume her?
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
272 pages, Hardcover
First published July 22, 2020
2 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
M.C. Clay
14books31followersM. C. Clay lives in Alabama with her husband, Doug, their daughter, Kassie, as well as their many pets. She attended The University of Alabama, where she was awarded a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature. Prior to following her passion of writing, she worked in the elementary education field. In addition to writing YA Dystopian/Fantasy novels, M. C. Clay enjoys reading books from all genres.
A Sword of Greed and Envy is M. C. Clay's debut novel, and the first in a series entitled 'Nokturn Rising'.
A few fun facts about M. C. Clay...
*Hufflepuff
*Divergent
*District 12
*INFJ (aka the Advocate or Idealist)
*Gemini (Split personalities...I can admit it)
*Animal Lover
*Daughter of Apollo
*Rebellion Advocate
*Affinity for Air
A Sword of Greed and Envy is M. C. Clay's debut novel, and the first in a series entitled 'Nokturn Rising'.
A few fun facts about M. C. Clay...
*Hufflepuff
*Divergent
*District 12
*INFJ (aka the Advocate or Idealist)
*Gemini (Split personalities...I can admit it)
*Animal Lover
*Daughter of Apollo
*Rebellion Advocate
*Affinity for Air
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 10, 2022
✨Thank you to the author for providing me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review �
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 stars
Wow. This was pleasantly a nice, quick read.
Okay let’s just start with what I liked in this book. Well for one it was a fast paced read with no complexity in it. Also the plot was great even though it could have been a lot more stronger. The world was fascinating. I mean, I enjoyed the concept of more than one mythical creature in the same world. And the writing style was amazing. I loved it.
Now let’s get on with the romance.
It was meh.
The insta love is absolutely not for me. It really got on my nerves.
Now for what I disliked, other than the romance, I felt like the M.C. Clay was rushing as hell. ASOGAE could have been a good 300 or more pages instead of 198.
Overall, it was great and I’d definitely continue the rest series.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 stars
Wow. This was pleasantly a nice, quick read.
Okay let’s just start with what I liked in this book. Well for one it was a fast paced read with no complexity in it. Also the plot was great even though it could have been a lot more stronger. The world was fascinating. I mean, I enjoyed the concept of more than one mythical creature in the same world. And the writing style was amazing. I loved it.
Now let’s get on with the romance.
It was meh.
The insta love is absolutely not for me. It really got on my nerves.
Now for what I disliked, other than the romance, I felt like the M.C. Clay was rushing as hell. ASOGAE could have been a good 300 or more pages instead of 198.
Overall, it was great and I’d definitely continue the rest series.
May 27, 2021
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was a quick and fast paced read with a strong female lead, vampires, reapers,and a sweet romance. There are werewolves too but we haven't met them yet. Honestly can't wait to meet them.
The book follows Lark who wins the fight in the Arena to become a servant of the Nokturns( the vampires, werewolves and the reapers).
(The fight in the arena reminded me of the hunger games. " Let the games begin". The raised pedestals and assigned places, Lark who is exceptional with bows and arrows, a fight to the death. That's where the similarities end.)
Thankfully, she is rescued by Ash, a Reaper who has human emotions and is willing keep her safe, no matter the cost. Ash is very gentle reaper( only for Lark). The first time they touch sparks fly( I was so sure they were mates, given the amount of werewolf stories I read).
Things I LIKED :
1. Ash - He's amazing and he respects the wishes of Lark AND he is selfless.
2. It's fast paced and has time skips that are easy to follow.
3. Consent. It's what I would like to see more in books and in real life.
4. It was not love at first sight. Sure they were attracted but they weren't throwing the word love around,
5. Communication- This is the an important factor of a non-toxic relationship like theirs.
6. Taron- He is the supportive friend we all need. He stands by her no matter what.
PEOPLE I DISLIKE: < /b>Their father. He is so toxic .We don't know much about him but this behavior is not acceptable.
I really want to know more about the history and the politics of the world. Is it a democracy? Or just monarchy? How did the family that is ruling come to be? Who divided the world ? Was there a war? Who won? Why are humans so low in the food chain?
*Spoilers ahead*
MYSTERIES I DESPERATELY WANT TO SEE ADDRESSED IN THE SEQUEL:
1. The voice inside her head
2. What happened to Ash? Please be alive.
3. The rebellion. It was mentioned once in the book but wasn't addressed. So I'm looking forward to that.
This was a quick and fast paced read with a strong female lead, vampires, reapers,and a sweet romance. There are werewolves too but we haven't met them yet. Honestly can't wait to meet them.
The book follows Lark who wins the fight in the Arena to become a servant of the Nokturns( the vampires, werewolves and the reapers).
(The fight in the arena reminded me of the hunger games. " Let the games begin". The raised pedestals and assigned places, Lark who is exceptional with bows and arrows, a fight to the death. That's where the similarities end.)
Thankfully, she is rescued by Ash, a Reaper who has human emotions and is willing keep her safe, no matter the cost. Ash is very gentle reaper( only for Lark). The first time they touch sparks fly( I was so sure they were mates, given the amount of werewolf stories I read).
Things I LIKED :
1. Ash - He's amazing and he respects the wishes of Lark AND he is selfless.
2. It's fast paced and has time skips that are easy to follow.
3. Consent. It's what I would like to see more in books and in real life.
4. It was not love at first sight. Sure they were attracted but they weren't throwing the word love around,
5. Communication- This is the an important factor of a non-toxic relationship like theirs.
6. Taron- He is the supportive friend we all need. He stands by her no matter what.
PEOPLE I DISLIKE: < /b>Their father. He is so toxic .We don't know much about him but this behavior is not acceptable.
I really want to know more about the history and the politics of the world. Is it a democracy? Or just monarchy? How did the family that is ruling come to be? Who divided the world ? Was there a war? Who won? Why are humans so low in the food chain?
*Spoilers ahead*
MYSTERIES I DESPERATELY WANT TO SEE ADDRESSED IN THE SEQUEL:
1. The voice inside her head
2. What happened to Ash? Please be alive.
3. The rebellion. It was mentioned once in the book but wasn't addressed. So I'm looking forward to that.
February 3, 2021
I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Strong female MC, Dystopian, Fantasy, Forbidden love, Vampires-Reapers-Humans-Lycanthropes wars.
Lark, a human warrior and Ash, a reaper prince met in the most unusual of circumstances and from onset, their love was doomed. Ash's family tried so hard to get rid of Lark, whom was discovered to be more than a human. However, as her abilities continued to manifest, different factions began to wage war over her.
This book is so good. I enjoyed the experience. However, the cliffhanger left me yearning for more.
Strong female MC, Dystopian, Fantasy, Forbidden love, Vampires-Reapers-Humans-Lycanthropes wars.
Lark, a human warrior and Ash, a reaper prince met in the most unusual of circumstances and from onset, their love was doomed. Ash's family tried so hard to get rid of Lark, whom was discovered to be more than a human. However, as her abilities continued to manifest, different factions began to wage war over her.
This book is so good. I enjoyed the experience. However, the cliffhanger left me yearning for more.
January 15, 2022
8 November 2021
My Special Edition Review is posted here. This review is only about the BONUS content. The review below is the REGULAR content, and for all purposes is the main review for ASOGAE.
My review for ASOGAE has not changed and is still 4.5 stars!
--------------------------------------------------
20 September 2021
4.5 stars, still (I think)!
I wasn’t at all intending to, but I reread ASOGAE. My rating (for now) remains the same. And if you’re interested in knowing why it has the rating it does, you’re welcome to read my full review below.
Now for some new stuff.
Once again I really enjoyed reading it. However, this time, I noticed a lot more cringey stuff (a lot of which is in my review below). Under “normal� reviewing circumstances, I’d probably rate ASOGAE 3 or 4 stars, BUT if you weren’t able to tell, I REALLY LIKE (don’t know if I love it though :/ ) this book! Because of how much I enjoyed rereading it, I cannot possibly rate it lower than 4 stars! The experience is just too good!
Maybe some day, I reread it yet again, just to be nit picky. Then again, maybe I won’t! Who knows? 🤷♀�
Still highly recommend it!
~~~~~
P.S. Come participate in the Author Interview Event over at Book Nerds Unite for a chance to win 1 of 7 copies of ASOGAE!!! Click the flyer below for more info!
Please consider participating!!!
--------------------------------------------------
21 May 2021
4.5 stars!
I'm really quite torn on how to rate . While I did enjoy ASOGAE, there were some flaws.
Okay, so here's the best analogy I can come up with: . The Selection is kind of a "trashy" read (in the best way possible), but it's also a feel–good novel. A lot of people like it, despite all of the tropes and cliqués. Despite the insta–love, people still like America and Maxon together. Overall, The Selection isn't a bad novel; it's just not one you'd read if you're looking for some high fantasy with complex world building and complex characters.
ASOGAE is pretty similar. There are a lot of tropes and cliqués found in a short, little novel. I called The Selection trashy, and to be completely honest, ASOGAE is also kind of trashy, but I mean this in the best way possible. You know, like Hallmark. Hallmark has movies people like, but it really isn't your top notch movie. (For the record, I despise Hallmark.) ASOGAE is similar, but not the same. It's better than The Selection and Hallmark, in my opinion.
Now that I'm done rambling about trashy literature, let me list some pros and cons:
Pros: Great characters; interesting world building; cool setting; interesting creatures; fast read; good, compelling plot; great writing; good dialogue
Cons: Insta–love; trope–y; cliquéd; editing; simple; annoying (at times) MC; lack of communication trope; mysterious powers trope
This is just a short list, but I'll get into it more later in my review.
I know what you're probably thinking. Asia, if there were so many cons, why'd you give it a 4.5–star rating AND round up to 5 stars? You even marked it as a favorite! What the heck?!?!
Simple answer? I liked it.
Long answer? I really liked it.
I truly did like the book. A lot. A lot more than I thought I would. I really enjoyed reading it, and I honestly would recommend this to other people.
I really like the world. Clay created an interesting world that is Maldara. I like the aspect of the 4 factions: Medeor (humans), Arcanum (Vampires), Mortem (Reapers), and Fortis (Werewolves). It's actually pretty unique, even though the creatures, called "Nokturns," are that unique.
The world is actually pretty interesting. I like all the politics of the Nokturns and how humans are at the bottom of the totem pole. They stay in Mortem, unless they compete in the Arena. If they win, they essentially are sold as a slave to the highest–paying Nokturn. So yeah, not a good life.
While the Nokturn themselves aren't inherently unique, the execution and concept really is quite unique. I like how Clay called these supernatural creatures the Nokturn. I don't know how she came up with it, but it really is an inventive and creative name.
Speaking of inventive and creative names, I also like the names she created for the whole area, as well as the individual factions and territories.
It all was creative, if not inventive, and I really liked it!
5/5
The plot was interesting, to say the least. I liked reading Lark's journey. However, the PDF was only 186 pages, so there wasn't a really . . . involved plot. Don't get me wrong; there was a plot, and it was good. But because ASOGAE was so short, there just wasn't a whole lot of it.
Aside from that, though, I really enjoyed the whole story. The plot was compelling, but I wish it were stronger. Nonetheless, I did enjoy it. I don't have that much to say, so how about you just go read it yourself?
Side note, click "view spoiler" at your own risk!
4/5
I loved the characters . . . well most of them. They were interesting, really well fleshed out, so creative, and mostly relatable. I really liked them.
There are two MC, one of which is the main POV. However, I liked both of them.
Lark
Lark is a really interesting character. She is the MC and the sole POV in the story. She's human, but she's far from weak. She is a skilled huntress and an expert marksman . . . markswoman? Whatever. She is really good with the bow—her choice weapon—but she is good with any weapon, having been trained since a young age.
When she met Ash, she changes in a lot of different ways, most of which I cannot say without spoilers, so I won't. However, I can say one thing. Lark changes her opinions, her preconceived notions of the Nokturns. While she has a long way from learning how to trust others, especially the Nokturns, she still learns to be truly open–minded in her opinions of them.
The one thing I don't like about her is that she can be extremely annoying. Like, she just acts so stupid when she really isn't that stupid! Urgh! I know that doesn't make any sense, but I can't say anything more without spoilers!
Ash
I really like Ash. He's an interesting characterplus he's kinda hot. (New book boyfriend, maybe???) However, we don't see much of him in the first couple chapters. He's kind of an enigma up to the point of actually getting to know him.
As such, I can't say anything, because they're all spoilers. So if you really want to meet Ash, just go pick up the book!
・・�
I know I've said this before, but I really like these characters. Regardless of their flaws, I do like both of them. The secondary characters were good, but they could have been better.
5/5
There's really so many great relationships in ASOGAE. There's an awesome sibling/twin relationship, an interesting uncle–niece relationship, and a swoon–worthy romance. All of these relationships revolve around Lark—one of my two favorite MCs. (Can you guess the other? Yeah, it's Ash.)
I really don't want to start ranting and accidentally spoil anything, so I think I should just shut up here. So, I won't say more about the amazing relationships in this book. . . .
Maybe I will say something. . . . Click "view spoiler" to read about these awesome relationships!
5/5
I really like the prose of the book. I just devoured Clay's writing. It was just so effortless and easy to read. I never had to reread a passage because I didn't understand it. I just reread because I loved the scene.
Like the prose, I thought the pacing was perfect as well! It wasn't too slow or too fast. I feel that it struck that perfect balance.
5/5
Overall, I really, really loved ASOGAE. Although ASOGAE also wasn't the most original, it still was very compelling. And yes, it had its flaws, but I just don't care. I loved the book. I know this won't work for everyone, but it worked for me. Maybe that says something about my book tastes. But to be honest, I just don't care.
I think the biggest thing the book suffered from was self–publishing. As far as I can tell, Clay published the book herself, so she didn't have a huge team of editors. It shows. Reading the PDF, I saw a lot of grammatical errors. Not so many that it was annoying, but just enough that it stuck out to me. I really hope that in her next books, Clay really works on her editing.
Nonetheless, I really did like the book. I found a new favorite book, a new favorite series, and a new favorite author. I can't wait to read Clay's next works!
4.5 stars!
~~~~~
Want more bookish stuff?
� Comment below to discuss this book more. I'd love to hear what you think!
� Send me a private message on ŷ to discuss this book and other books!
� Join the Book Nerds Unite group to discuss this book and other books, as well as to receive book recommendations or just to chat in general with other book nerds like me!
� Like this review, and follow me for more book reviews.
Happy Reading!
--------------------------------------------------
6 May 2021
*TO READ*
I was kindly provided a free e–copy by the author, in exchange for a review.
RTC upon reading the book.
My Special Edition Review is posted here. This review is only about the BONUS content. The review below is the REGULAR content, and for all purposes is the main review for ASOGAE.
My review for ASOGAE has not changed and is still 4.5 stars!
--------------------------------------------------
20 September 2021
4.5 stars, still (I think)!
I wasn’t at all intending to, but I reread ASOGAE. My rating (for now) remains the same. And if you’re interested in knowing why it has the rating it does, you’re welcome to read my full review below.
Now for some new stuff.
Once again I really enjoyed reading it. However, this time, I noticed a lot more cringey stuff (a lot of which is in my review below). Under “normal� reviewing circumstances, I’d probably rate ASOGAE 3 or 4 stars, BUT if you weren’t able to tell, I REALLY LIKE (don’t know if I love it though :/ ) this book! Because of how much I enjoyed rereading it, I cannot possibly rate it lower than 4 stars! The experience is just too good!
Maybe some day, I reread it yet again, just to be nit picky. Then again, maybe I won’t! Who knows? 🤷♀�
Still highly recommend it!
~~~~~
P.S. Come participate in the Author Interview Event over at Book Nerds Unite for a chance to win 1 of 7 copies of ASOGAE!!! Click the flyer below for more info!
Please consider participating!!!
--------------------------------------------------
21 May 2021
4.5 stars!
I'm really quite torn on how to rate . While I did enjoy ASOGAE, there were some flaws.
Okay, so here's the best analogy I can come up with: . The Selection is kind of a "trashy" read (in the best way possible), but it's also a feel–good novel. A lot of people like it, despite all of the tropes and cliqués. Despite the insta–love, people still like America and Maxon together. Overall, The Selection isn't a bad novel; it's just not one you'd read if you're looking for some high fantasy with complex world building and complex characters.
ASOGAE is pretty similar. There are a lot of tropes and cliqués found in a short, little novel. I called The Selection trashy, and to be completely honest, ASOGAE is also kind of trashy, but I mean this in the best way possible. You know, like Hallmark. Hallmark has movies people like, but it really isn't your top notch movie. (For the record, I despise Hallmark.) ASOGAE is similar, but not the same. It's better than The Selection and Hallmark, in my opinion.
Now that I'm done rambling about trashy literature, let me list some pros and cons:
Pros: Great characters; interesting world building; cool setting; interesting creatures; fast read; good, compelling plot; great writing; good dialogue
Cons: Insta–love; trope–y; cliquéd; editing; simple; annoying (at times) MC; lack of communication trope; mysterious powers trope
This is just a short list, but I'll get into it more later in my review.
I know what you're probably thinking. Asia, if there were so many cons, why'd you give it a 4.5–star rating AND round up to 5 stars? You even marked it as a favorite! What the heck?!?!
Simple answer? I liked it.
Long answer? I really liked it.
I truly did like the book. A lot. A lot more than I thought I would. I really enjoyed reading it, and I honestly would recommend this to other people.
World Building
I really like the world. Clay created an interesting world that is Maldara. I like the aspect of the 4 factions: Medeor (humans), Arcanum (Vampires), Mortem (Reapers), and Fortis (Werewolves). It's actually pretty unique, even though the creatures, called "Nokturns," are that unique.
The world is actually pretty interesting. I like all the politics of the Nokturns and how humans are at the bottom of the totem pole. They stay in Mortem, unless they compete in the Arena. If they win, they essentially are sold as a slave to the highest–paying Nokturn. So yeah, not a good life.
While the Nokturn themselves aren't inherently unique, the execution and concept really is quite unique. I like how Clay called these supernatural creatures the Nokturn. I don't know how she came up with it, but it really is an inventive and creative name.
Speaking of inventive and creative names, I also like the names she created for the whole area, as well as the individual factions and territories.
It all was creative, if not inventive, and I really liked it!
5/5
Plot
The plot was interesting, to say the least. I liked reading Lark's journey. However, the PDF was only 186 pages, so there wasn't a really . . . involved plot. Don't get me wrong; there was a plot, and it was good. But because ASOGAE was so short, there just wasn't a whole lot of it.
Aside from that, though, I really enjoyed the whole story. The plot was compelling, but I wish it were stronger. Nonetheless, I did enjoy it. I don't have that much to say, so how about you just go read it yourself?
Side note, click "view spoiler" at your own risk!
4/5
Characters
I loved the characters . . . well most of them. They were interesting, really well fleshed out, so creative, and mostly relatable. I really liked them.
There are two MC, one of which is the main POV. However, I liked both of them.
Lark
Lark is a really interesting character. She is the MC and the sole POV in the story. She's human, but she's far from weak. She is a skilled huntress and an expert marksman . . . markswoman? Whatever. She is really good with the bow—her choice weapon—but she is good with any weapon, having been trained since a young age.
When she met Ash, she changes in a lot of different ways, most of which I cannot say without spoilers, so I won't. However, I can say one thing. Lark changes her opinions, her preconceived notions of the Nokturns. While she has a long way from learning how to trust others, especially the Nokturns, she still learns to be truly open–minded in her opinions of them.
The one thing I don't like about her is that she can be extremely annoying. Like, she just acts so stupid when she really isn't that stupid! Urgh! I know that doesn't make any sense, but I can't say anything more without spoilers!
Ash
I really like Ash. He's an interesting character
As such, I can't say anything, because they're all spoilers. So if you really want to meet Ash, just go pick up the book!
・・�
I know I've said this before, but I really like these characters. Regardless of their flaws, I do like both of them. The secondary characters were good, but they could have been better.
5/5
Relationships
There's really so many great relationships in ASOGAE. There's an awesome sibling/twin relationship, an interesting uncle–niece relationship, and a swoon–worthy romance. All of these relationships revolve around Lark—one of my two favorite MCs. (Can you guess the other? Yeah, it's Ash.)
I really don't want to start ranting and accidentally spoil anything, so I think I should just shut up here. So, I won't say more about the amazing relationships in this book. . . .
Maybe I will say something. . . . Click "view spoiler" to read about these awesome relationships!
5/5
Prose & Pacing
I really like the prose of the book. I just devoured Clay's writing. It was just so effortless and easy to read. I never had to reread a passage because I didn't understand it. I just reread because I loved the scene.
Like the prose, I thought the pacing was perfect as well! It wasn't too slow or too fast. I feel that it struck that perfect balance.
5/5
Overall
Overall, I really, really loved ASOGAE. Although ASOGAE also wasn't the most original, it still was very compelling. And yes, it had its flaws, but I just don't care. I loved the book. I know this won't work for everyone, but it worked for me. Maybe that says something about my book tastes. But to be honest, I just don't care.
I think the biggest thing the book suffered from was self–publishing. As far as I can tell, Clay published the book herself, so she didn't have a huge team of editors. It shows. Reading the PDF, I saw a lot of grammatical errors. Not so many that it was annoying, but just enough that it stuck out to me. I really hope that in her next books, Clay really works on her editing.
Nonetheless, I really did like the book. I found a new favorite book, a new favorite series, and a new favorite author. I can't wait to read Clay's next works!
4.5 stars!
~~~~~
Want more bookish stuff?
� Comment below to discuss this book more. I'd love to hear what you think!
� Send me a private message on ŷ to discuss this book and other books!
� Join the Book Nerds Unite group to discuss this book and other books, as well as to receive book recommendations or just to chat in general with other book nerds like me!
� Like this review, and follow me for more book reviews.
Happy Reading!
--------------------------------------------------
6 May 2021
*TO READ*
I was kindly provided a free e–copy by the author, in exchange for a review.
RTC upon reading the book.
October 29, 2022
I was given a free copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly didn't like this much. I thought the plot reminded me too much of other books I read, I often found myself comparing them hand in hand. I wish it had it's own unique story.
I also found it way too fast paced. It irked me a lot how it cut from scene to scene so fast with little to no explanation or detail. Certain things I wish were enumerated more, such as the fight in the Arena, the meeting between Lark and Ash, etc. The entire book felt very rushed and I felt left in the dark a lot, like I was missing whole chapters of information.
It makes no sense to me how quickly the relationships are formed. Like...Lark JUST meets this little kid and five(barely) minutes later he's sacrificing himself for her survival and on a nickname basis with her? Lark sees some drunk dude in a tavern and all of a sudden he's throwing himself at her and she's fighting her attraction to him. Somehow they have a soulmate like bond even though they JUST MET TWO PAGES AGO. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
Honestly it's a pretty decent plot, albeit basic and widely used, and it really had potential to be a great absorbing read had it been better written.
I honestly didn't like this much. I thought the plot reminded me too much of other books I read, I often found myself comparing them hand in hand. I wish it had it's own unique story.
I also found it way too fast paced. It irked me a lot how it cut from scene to scene so fast with little to no explanation or detail. Certain things I wish were enumerated more, such as the fight in the Arena, the meeting between Lark and Ash, etc. The entire book felt very rushed and I felt left in the dark a lot, like I was missing whole chapters of information.
It makes no sense to me how quickly the relationships are formed. Like...Lark JUST meets this little kid and five(barely) minutes later he's sacrificing himself for her survival and on a nickname basis with her? Lark sees some drunk dude in a tavern and all of a sudden he's throwing himself at her and she's fighting her attraction to him. Somehow they have a soulmate like bond even though they JUST MET TWO PAGES AGO. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
Honestly it's a pretty decent plot, albeit basic and widely used, and it really had potential to be a great absorbing read had it been better written.
January 7, 2022
� I received a copy of this book from the author in return for my honest review, thank you M. C Clay �
I finished this first of four books within an evening. I couldn’t put it down! I love that the main character is a girl, but isn’t one of those who need saving all the time (well.. only in a few chapters anyway) 😅
I also really liked the whole different parts for different types of magical creatures and the bit of Hunger Game inspired arena fight. Only things that put it down a mark for me were - 1. What is with that voice? And 2. The cliffhanger ending 😩 (even though I’m sure by reading the rest of the books I’ll find out what happens with that)
All in all, a really great read ☺️
I finished this first of four books within an evening. I couldn’t put it down! I love that the main character is a girl, but isn’t one of those who need saving all the time (well.. only in a few chapters anyway) 😅
I also really liked the whole different parts for different types of magical creatures and the bit of Hunger Game inspired arena fight. Only things that put it down a mark for me were - 1. What is with that voice? And 2. The cliffhanger ending 😩 (even though I’m sure by reading the rest of the books I’ll find out what happens with that)
All in all, a really great read ☺️
January 7, 2022
~I was given a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest opinion~
This was a good book. It was fast paced, had a great main character, a very interesting fantasy world, and a good plot. There were all kinds of different creatures, there was action everywhere, and even though it was a little hard to process all the information given at times, I think it was well developed.
The only thing I think this book lacks is more depth in general. We got to know the main character, but she and the love interest were the only ones that were given much characterization. I would have also liked if there had been a map or if there had been better descriptions of the setting because I struggled some times to picture things in my head.
Over all it was good, and I had a fun time reading it :)
Cant wait to read the next one!
This was a good book. It was fast paced, had a great main character, a very interesting fantasy world, and a good plot. There were all kinds of different creatures, there was action everywhere, and even though it was a little hard to process all the information given at times, I think it was well developed.
The only thing I think this book lacks is more depth in general. We got to know the main character, but she and the love interest were the only ones that were given much characterization. I would have also liked if there had been a map or if there had been better descriptions of the setting because I struggled some times to picture things in my head.
Over all it was good, and I had a fun time reading it :)
Cant wait to read the next one!
January 25, 2021
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
YA fantasy is my baby and this book was no exception. Sigh. Love reading about the mythical places and people. Love the hint of romance added in. Love the strong female vibes. Will definitely be picking up the next book, I can’t leave a cliffhanger, well, hanging! Haha! Was a very pleasant read, a good book.
YA fantasy is my baby and this book was no exception. Sigh. Love reading about the mythical places and people. Love the hint of romance added in. Love the strong female vibes. Will definitely be picking up the next book, I can’t leave a cliffhanger, well, hanging! Haha! Was a very pleasant read, a good book.
November 8, 2021
8 November 2021
4.5 stars!
Please note that this review is ONLY a review of the BONUS content included in this special edition. If you are interested in reading my full review of the REGULAR content, you can read it here.
Okay, now that that's said and done, review time.
Since the Bonus Content included 3 main components, I'm going to break my review up into those 3 components instead of my normal review format.
ASOHAO follows the first half of ASOGAE, but from Ash's POV. This really gives a whole new look at Lark's first encounters with Ash and Mortem. I really enjoyed reading it, and I absolutely devoured it. I think I finished it in one day, but I'm not sure so I just marked it as a two–day read. However, if I hadn't had this thing known as "school," I'm sure I easily could have read this in one sitting. Characteristic of 's writing style, the prose read so easily. Overall, I enjoyed ASOHAO just as much as ASOGAE.The only thing I don't think I liked as much was Ash. He just seemed a little too protective and commanding for my taste, almost to the point of being a jerk. Although now that I'm typing this, that just doesn't make sense to me so scrap that. I don't know; Ash just seemed . . . off to me. ¯\_(�)_/¯ I don't know.
I really liked Ash's letters. It really seems to be a trend in YA to include letters. Of course, the queen of letters will always be in . <3 JURDAN! However, I think Clay definitely did a really good job with Ash's letters. They were definitely good!
The illustrations were SO good!! Like honestly, whoever does those drawings does an amazing job! Since Clay's mother did the original cover designs, I'm going to assume that she did the illustrations for the Special Edition as well. She illustrated the grist mill, Ash, and Lark. All of them were done so well. However, Ash was not really how I pictured him, and I can't really tell if that's a good thing or not. He's just drawn to be a lot larger (not fatter) than I thought. Nonetheless, the illustrations are so good. Plus, accompanying the character illustrations are some facts (like birth, death, parents, etc.) about them, which I found really interesting!
Overall, I really, really like my Special Edition! The only thing I didn't mention above is that in the regular content, the chapters have chapter names! So that was also really cool!
Major thanks to M.C. Clay for graciously giving me a copy of her SIGNED, hardcover Special Edition. I received a copy for participating in BNU's Author Interview Event. I was not required to write a review, and all opinions are my own.
4.5 stars!
~~~~~
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� Comment below to discuss this book more. I'd love to hear what you think!
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4.5 stars!
Please note that this review is ONLY a review of the BONUS content included in this special edition. If you are interested in reading my full review of the REGULAR content, you can read it here.
Okay, now that that's said and done, review time.
Since the Bonus Content included 3 main components, I'm going to break my review up into those 3 components instead of my normal review format.
A Song of Hope and Oblivion
ASOHAO follows the first half of ASOGAE, but from Ash's POV. This really gives a whole new look at Lark's first encounters with Ash and Mortem. I really enjoyed reading it, and I absolutely devoured it. I think I finished it in one day, but I'm not sure so I just marked it as a two–day read. However, if I hadn't had this thing known as "school," I'm sure I easily could have read this in one sitting. Characteristic of 's writing style, the prose read so easily. Overall, I enjoyed ASOHAO just as much as ASOGAE.
Ash's Letters
I really liked Ash's letters. It really seems to be a trend in YA to include letters. Of course, the queen of letters will always be in . <3 JURDAN! However, I think Clay definitely did a really good job with Ash's letters. They were definitely good!
Illustrations
The illustrations were SO good!! Like honestly, whoever does those drawings does an amazing job! Since Clay's mother did the original cover designs, I'm going to assume that she did the illustrations for the Special Edition as well. She illustrated the grist mill, Ash, and Lark. All of them were done so well. However, Ash was not really how I pictured him, and I can't really tell if that's a good thing or not. He's just drawn to be a lot larger (not fatter) than I thought. Nonetheless, the illustrations are so good. Plus, accompanying the character illustrations are some facts (like birth, death, parents, etc.) about them, which I found really interesting!
Overall
Overall, I really, really like my Special Edition! The only thing I didn't mention above is that in the regular content, the chapters have chapter names! So that was also really cool!
Major thanks to M.C. Clay for graciously giving me a copy of her SIGNED, hardcover Special Edition. I received a copy for participating in BNU's Author Interview Event. I was not required to write a review, and all opinions are my own.
4.5 stars!
~~~~~
Want more bookish stuff?
� Comment below to discuss this book more. I'd love to hear what you think!
� Send me a private message on ŷ to discuss this book and other books!
� Join Book Nerds Unite to get involved in all things bookish with fellow book nerds!
� Like this review, and follow me for more book reviews.
April 27, 2021
I loved the aspect of the novel. The creativity is amazing with the reapers which is so unique. It’s perfect for fans of the Red Queen series.
September 4, 2020
A Sword of Greed and Envy: A Nokturn Rising Novel, by M. C. Clay, is a fast-paced, action-packed, paranormal romance story. The book follows Lark, a human girl living in a world ruled by monsters. The story felt like a mash-up of Hunger Games, Twilight, and Beauty and the Beast. Lark is tough and she needs to be in order to survive the ordeals she is put through and the monsters she is surrounded by.
I really liked the world that Clay built as it felt like a fresh take on the vampire/werewolf/soul-sucking creatures story. Rather than hiding in the dark, these creatures rule their world. Clay creates a clear picture of what her take on these creatures is as well as the complicated political climate between the different factions. The romance story is enticing and fun to read about as we see a human girl and a reaper inexplicably drawn together. My only struggle when reading but that there were times I wish the pace of the book would slow down a bit to sit longer in scenes as we are getting to know the characters.
The story is a fun read that is action-packed from beginning to end. The book left plenty of intriguing questions, making me excited to see what will happen in the next book!
I really liked the world that Clay built as it felt like a fresh take on the vampire/werewolf/soul-sucking creatures story. Rather than hiding in the dark, these creatures rule their world. Clay creates a clear picture of what her take on these creatures is as well as the complicated political climate between the different factions. The romance story is enticing and fun to read about as we see a human girl and a reaper inexplicably drawn together. My only struggle when reading but that there were times I wish the pace of the book would slow down a bit to sit longer in scenes as we are getting to know the characters.
The story is a fun read that is action-packed from beginning to end. The book left plenty of intriguing questions, making me excited to see what will happen in the next book!
September 2, 2020
Maldera is dangerous land, split between factions and just barely kept in balance. When a human with secrets is thrown into the mix how long will that balance hold out?
Larkin Kravinoff is no ordinary girl, a trained warrior from youth shes been taught how to handle herself in most situations. But when she bumps into mr dark and broody her life goes into a dangerous spiral that her bow might not get her out of.
This book was fantastic, there was never a dull moment. The plot twisted and turned and kept me guessing around every corner; I definitely need to know what happens next!
****Soilers below ****
I absolutely love enemies to lovers!
I love how sassy Lark is and how she never takes anything sitting down.
Lark and Ash are definitely two sides to the same coin, I love how they balance each other out and I NEED to find out what happens next.
I was given this book in exchange for my honest review. Receiving it had no effect on the review I have written, my review is 100% my own thoughts and opinions.
Larkin Kravinoff is no ordinary girl, a trained warrior from youth shes been taught how to handle herself in most situations. But when she bumps into mr dark and broody her life goes into a dangerous spiral that her bow might not get her out of.
This book was fantastic, there was never a dull moment. The plot twisted and turned and kept me guessing around every corner; I definitely need to know what happens next!
****Soilers below ****
I absolutely love enemies to lovers!
I love how sassy Lark is and how she never takes anything sitting down.
Lark and Ash are definitely two sides to the same coin, I love how they balance each other out and I NEED to find out what happens next.
I was given this book in exchange for my honest review. Receiving it had no effect on the review I have written, my review is 100% my own thoughts and opinions.
November 18, 2022
I would like to thank the author M.C. Clay for giving me the e-book in exchange for an honest review.
I went into reading this book, without any knowledge about the plot. The book was really fast paced and full of action. This was something I fairly enjoyed. With hints of Hunger Games, Twilight and even ACOTAR, this book dealt with vampires, reapers and werewolves. The concept of this book was not that unique but the plot was enjoyable.
I just wish that the book focused more on the details and emotions, rather than just telling the story. Somehow, emotions and angst felt missing. The main character, Lark was presented as a defiant and bold girl who knew well enough to fight. However, in the plot, actual description was not present.
It was a 2.7 stars read for me.
I went into reading this book, without any knowledge about the plot. The book was really fast paced and full of action. This was something I fairly enjoyed. With hints of Hunger Games, Twilight and even ACOTAR, this book dealt with vampires, reapers and werewolves. The concept of this book was not that unique but the plot was enjoyable.
I just wish that the book focused more on the details and emotions, rather than just telling the story. Somehow, emotions and angst felt missing. The main character, Lark was presented as a defiant and bold girl who knew well enough to fight. However, in the plot, actual description was not present.
It was a 2.7 stars read for me.
August 3, 2020
If you enjoy reading Dystopian/Fantasy type novels or you just want to experience something different, then this is a book you want to read. It is a very easy read for all ages. M.C. Clay is new to the novel world and has created well-drawn out characters with lots of energy and determination.This fast paced novel has plenty of action with twists and turns to keep you interested. Lark Kravinoff is a very strong and brave young woman, traits that all young women should have. She is trying to survive in a world where humans and creatures live and collide. I am eagerly waiting for the next book in this series.
August 8, 2020
Really enjoyed this book! I love the characters and the entire world created in this novel! There weren’t any lulls in the story and it kept me engaged the entire time. M. C. Clay has created a post-apocalyptic type world here, and filled it with creatures both familiar and unfamiliar. I can’t wait for the next instalment in this series to see what happens! This is a must read for anyone interested in YA novels and/or Dystopian/Fantasy books!
August 10, 2020
Paranormal/Dystopian adventure
Lark is a human/ Ash is a Reaper. They aren’t supposed to like each other, much less love each other, but nothing ever goes according to plan. Clay delivers a story filled with adventure, a few creepy crawlies, a real bad guy and 2 people who want to be together, but aren’t sure how. The story flowed smoothly and the imagery was well done. I enjoyed this read and look forward the next installment
Lark is a human/ Ash is a Reaper. They aren’t supposed to like each other, much less love each other, but nothing ever goes according to plan. Clay delivers a story filled with adventure, a few creepy crawlies, a real bad guy and 2 people who want to be together, but aren’t sure how. The story flowed smoothly and the imagery was well done. I enjoyed this read and look forward the next installment
June 17, 2021
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
The book is really good.When I started it I got a little lost at the beginning maybe because it seems to me that sometimes everything happens very rush it jumps very fast from one scene to another, but once you get the rhythm you finish it in one go.
The story focuses on Lark, a girl, and her story with an Ash, a reaper. Both live in a world divided into four factions, humans, reapers, vampires and werewolves. As you can imagine the humans are the weakest of all, and in a similar way to the Hunger Games they select some or volunteer for a fight and the winner leaves Medeor (their territory) to serve the faction that most bid for the winner. The story follows Lark, who ends up in the selection and even though they don't get to select her, after a series of incidents, she ends up leaving with Ash.
From here the story focuses on Lark and Ash, their relationship and how Lark tries to adapt to her new life which is threatened by Ash's relatives, as he happens to be the heir to the throne of his faction. In addition another character that has relevance in the story is Killian, a vampire heir as well, and who also is important in the story (or so it seems), as vampires rule over all factions and also knows the nature of Lark as she has something special.
I liked it a lot because it is a mixture of The Hunger Games and Red Queen. In addition the end leaves you with all the intrigue because I need to know how the rebellion ends, Ash's fate, Lark's gift and understand her father and uncle, there is something I don't like about these characters, it is clear that they hide something about Lark and her twin.
The world that the author has created I loved, as well as the factions in which it is divided, it is more common the theme of werewolves and vampires but I am very curious about the reapers, it is different and I like that. Congratulations to the author for the story she has created.
Spanish
El libro está muy bien, de verdad. Cuando lo empecé me perdí un poquito al principio, quizás porque me parece que en algunas ocasiones todo ocurre muy rápido, salta muy rápido de una escena a otra, pero una vez que le coges el ritmo lo terminas del tirón.
La historia se centra en Lark, una chica, y su historia con un Ash, un segador de almas (la parca vaya). Ambos viven en un mundo divido en territorios donde habitan distintos seres, humanos, segadores de almas, vampiros y hombres lobos. Como podéis imaginar los humanos son los más débiles de todos, y de una forma similar a los Juegos del Hambre, seleccionan a algunos o se presentan voluntarios a un combate y el vencedor se marcha de Medeor para servir a la facción que más puje por el ganador. La historia sigue a Lark, que termina en la selección y a pesar de que no llegan a seleccionarla, después de una serie de incidentes, termina marchándose con Ash.
Desde aquí la historia se centra en Lark y Ash, su relación y como Lark intenta adaptarse a su nueva vida, que se ve amenazada por los familiares de Ash, pues es el heredero al trono de su facción. Además, otro personaje que tiene relevancia en la historia es Killian, un vampiro heredero también, y que además tiene un mayor peso en la historia (o eso parece), pues lo vampiros gobiernan sobre todas las facciones, y conoce la naturaleza de Lark, ya que tiene algo especial.
Me ha gustado mucho, porque es una mezcla de Los Juegos del Hambre y la Reina Roja. Además, que el final te deja con toda la intriga, necesito saber como termina la rebelión, el destino de Ash, el don de Lark y entender a su padre y a su tío, hay algo que no termina de gustarme de estos personajes, esta claro que ocultan algo sobre Lark y posiblemente su gemelo.
El mundo que ha creado la autora me ha encantado, igual que las facciones en las que se divide, si es más común el tema de los hombres lobo y los vampiros, pero tengo mucha curiosidad por los segadores de almas, es diferente y eso me gusta. Enhorabuena a la autora por la historia que ha creado.
The book is really good.When I started it I got a little lost at the beginning maybe because it seems to me that sometimes everything happens very rush it jumps very fast from one scene to another, but once you get the rhythm you finish it in one go.
The story focuses on Lark, a girl, and her story with an Ash, a reaper. Both live in a world divided into four factions, humans, reapers, vampires and werewolves. As you can imagine the humans are the weakest of all, and in a similar way to the Hunger Games they select some or volunteer for a fight and the winner leaves Medeor (their territory) to serve the faction that most bid for the winner. The story follows Lark, who ends up in the selection and even though they don't get to select her, after a series of incidents, she ends up leaving with Ash.
From here the story focuses on Lark and Ash, their relationship and how Lark tries to adapt to her new life which is threatened by Ash's relatives, as he happens to be the heir to the throne of his faction. In addition another character that has relevance in the story is Killian, a vampire heir as well, and who also is important in the story (or so it seems), as vampires rule over all factions and also knows the nature of Lark as she has something special.
I liked it a lot because it is a mixture of The Hunger Games and Red Queen. In addition the end leaves you with all the intrigue because I need to know how the rebellion ends, Ash's fate, Lark's gift and understand her father and uncle, there is something I don't like about these characters, it is clear that they hide something about Lark and her twin.
The world that the author has created I loved, as well as the factions in which it is divided, it is more common the theme of werewolves and vampires but I am very curious about the reapers, it is different and I like that. Congratulations to the author for the story she has created.
Spanish
El libro está muy bien, de verdad. Cuando lo empecé me perdí un poquito al principio, quizás porque me parece que en algunas ocasiones todo ocurre muy rápido, salta muy rápido de una escena a otra, pero una vez que le coges el ritmo lo terminas del tirón.
La historia se centra en Lark, una chica, y su historia con un Ash, un segador de almas (la parca vaya). Ambos viven en un mundo divido en territorios donde habitan distintos seres, humanos, segadores de almas, vampiros y hombres lobos. Como podéis imaginar los humanos son los más débiles de todos, y de una forma similar a los Juegos del Hambre, seleccionan a algunos o se presentan voluntarios a un combate y el vencedor se marcha de Medeor para servir a la facción que más puje por el ganador. La historia sigue a Lark, que termina en la selección y a pesar de que no llegan a seleccionarla, después de una serie de incidentes, termina marchándose con Ash.
Desde aquí la historia se centra en Lark y Ash, su relación y como Lark intenta adaptarse a su nueva vida, que se ve amenazada por los familiares de Ash, pues es el heredero al trono de su facción. Además, otro personaje que tiene relevancia en la historia es Killian, un vampiro heredero también, y que además tiene un mayor peso en la historia (o eso parece), pues lo vampiros gobiernan sobre todas las facciones, y conoce la naturaleza de Lark, ya que tiene algo especial.
Me ha gustado mucho, porque es una mezcla de Los Juegos del Hambre y la Reina Roja. Además, que el final te deja con toda la intriga, necesito saber como termina la rebelión, el destino de Ash, el don de Lark y entender a su padre y a su tío, hay algo que no termina de gustarme de estos personajes, esta claro que ocultan algo sobre Lark y posiblemente su gemelo.
El mundo que ha creado la autora me ha encantado, igual que las facciones en las que se divide, si es más común el tema de los hombres lobo y los vampiros, pero tengo mucha curiosidad por los segadores de almas, es diferente y eso me gusta. Enhorabuena a la autora por la historia que ha creado.
January 25, 2022
I like this book....but it makes me confused :/
For first half of the book, the plot pace is so fast. I feel like I was missing a few paragraph while read it.
The world and characters introduction also feel rush. Like instead of show us how the situation in this world, the author just told us about it. And about the characters, I wish at least I know more about main characters life, like Ash and Lark before the main plot begin.
And the romance.....
I could see myself being swept by it because the way their flirting is kind of my style (>,^) but because it felt happened out of nowhere, so whenever Lark and Ash together I always thinking "how did this happen?" and that ruined the atmosphere :(
BUT!!! I LOVE the second part of the book. The pace MUCH better here!!! And finally I could really enjoy reading it (^o^)
For first half of the book, the plot pace is so fast. I feel like I was missing a few paragraph while read it.
The world and characters introduction also feel rush. Like instead of show us how the situation in this world, the author just told us about it. And about the characters, I wish at least I know more about main characters life, like Ash and Lark before the main plot begin.
And the romance.....
I could see myself being swept by it because the way their flirting is kind of my style (>,^) but because it felt happened out of nowhere, so whenever Lark and Ash together I always thinking "how did this happen?" and that ruined the atmosphere :(
BUT!!! I LOVE the second part of the book. The pace MUCH better here!!! And finally I could really enjoy reading it (^o^)
May 26, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Exciting new fantasy series from a debut author set against a backdrop of medieval magic and competing races: vampires, lycans, reapers and humans.
In the lands of Maldara, being human means being prey to the three races of Nokturn: the Vampires of Arcanum, the Reapers of Mortem and the Werewolves of Fortis.
Larkin Kravinoff has spent her life � all seventeen years of it � forging herself into a skilled hunter in the human lands of Medeor.
She has survived this long with little to no contact with the outer Nokturn world until one fateful night when her path crosses that of Ash � a Nokturn � but one who is unlike what she has been made to believe of the Nokturn races.
After their chance encounter, Lark never expects to see Ash again, but when she is forced to compete in a human battle arena for Nokturn enjoyment and against all odds emerges the victor, she find herself face to face with the errant Nokturn lord once more.
Spoilers ahead
Exciting new fantasy series from a debut author set against a backdrop of medieval magic and competing races: vampires, lycans, reapers and humans.
In the lands of Maldara, being human means being prey to the three races of Nokturn: the Vampires of Arcanum, the Reapers of Mortem and the Werewolves of Fortis.
Larkin Kravinoff has spent her life � all seventeen years of it � forging herself into a skilled hunter in the human lands of Medeor.
She has survived this long with little to no contact with the outer Nokturn world until one fateful night when her path crosses that of Ash � a Nokturn � but one who is unlike what she has been made to believe of the Nokturn races.
After their chance encounter, Lark never expects to see Ash again, but when she is forced to compete in a human battle arena for Nokturn enjoyment and against all odds emerges the victor, she find herself face to face with the errant Nokturn lord once more.
Spoilers ahead
~ Deanaera's Bloggy Book Bites
September 4, 2020
You'll read it in a day!
Lark lives in the human occupied South during the dark times in the land of Maldera. Survival is taught from a young age as only the strongest survive the brutal conditions humans are subjected to. A series of events occur which places Lark in the path of Ash, a reaper who has grown weary of the world. Together they fight forces bent on controlling the lands. Their combined forces are the only chance for humanity. Great chemistry between characters which grow and develop more fully throughout this story. This plot feels original and leaves the reader ready for more!
Lark lives in the human occupied South during the dark times in the land of Maldera. Survival is taught from a young age as only the strongest survive the brutal conditions humans are subjected to. A series of events occur which places Lark in the path of Ash, a reaper who has grown weary of the world. Together they fight forces bent on controlling the lands. Their combined forces are the only chance for humanity. Great chemistry between characters which grow and develop more fully throughout this story. This plot feels original and leaves the reader ready for more!
August 3, 2020
Really enjoyed this book! I fell in love with the characters and the entire world created in this novel! There weren’t any lulls in the story and it kept me engaged the entire time. I can’t wait for the next installment in this series to see what happens! This is a must read for anyone interested in YA novels and/or Dystopian/Fantasy books!
June 6, 2021
Thank you again to the author for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Before I start, this review does have a couple of spoilers, but I will give fair warning right before each one.
As for the review itself: is this book completely flawless? No. But I did have fun reading it, and the story is quite interesting and has promise.
Things I liked:
- I love the trope of sworn enemies that realize that the other side is not all that bad and become friends then lovers. It really works for me, and I liked the one in this book.
- Ash is a very interesting character, who as a Reaper would have every right to be cold and distant but instead is surprisingly gentle and kind. He goes out of his way to protect Lark, and is willing to challenge his own father and race to prove that they belong together. And I like how he even tried not to Reap for Lark’s sake.
- The brother-sister relationship here. Taron is adorable and I loved how (Spoiler ahead) he was willing to reconsider everything he believed in because he trusted his sister so much, to the point of eventually trusting and liking Ash as well. Lark had the instant-soul-mates feeling towards Ash, but Taron had no such thing. He had no reason to trust Ash besides “my sister trusts him, so I will too� and I loved it.
- Torak and his bond with Ash. I actually want to know more about it, how the bond works, how it came to be. But then again, I have a weak spot for human-animal friendships. Heck, I finished the book wanting a Barghest for myself, to be honest!
- (Some spoilers here but nothing too specific). The hints and openings that can be explored in the sequels, like the other race that no one knew about, the creepy voice, Killian’s plans, etc. I love a good mystery!
Things that I think could be improved:
- The main things by far were the pacing and the show-vs-tell. The story felt very rushed, and it is hard to really develop feelings for any of the characters when it is rushed like that, especially the secondary ones. I barely registered what had happened in one paragraph and suddenly in the next paragraph it was already a month later and they were in a different city, without any visible break in the narrative. The first two chapters alone are equivalent to 90% of the Hunger Games, down to an arena fight to the death. Take Benji for example, the boy from the arena (Minor Spoiler ahead). Lark mentions that the boy was also chosen from her village, and 5 pages later he is killing himself. Sure, it is shocking and sudden and sad, but if you want to really rip my heart out with this scene, then introduce me to the boy from the very beginning and make him a real person. Make him the baker’s son who always has flour smudged on his nose, or Lark’s annoying neighbor who never stops talking, or a boy who always runs up to Lark whenever she comes back to town with a large game in tow because he wants to see what she’s caught, or something. But introduce me to Benji way before he has his “moment� in the story, and not 5 pages before he dies. Just giving the character a name won’t make me care for them.
- I would have loved to see more from Serena, and even from the rest of Ash’s family (other from the we-must-kill-Lark moments). Again, maybe that was left out on purpose for the sequels, but I would have liked it.
- I love some good romance and flirting in books, but that’s just it: what I really like is the “thrill of the chase�. They had an instant connection, and that’s great! But a couple of days after being essentially bought as a slave by Ash, Lark is perfectly ok with him pulling her to his lap. I would have liked to see her being torn between her fear of Reapers and her growing love for one, fighting the pull at the beginning, and then slowly getting used to him touching her like that.
- A small inconsistency but it still got me confused: if Reapers consume souls for sustenance (to the point where Ash mentions that he’s not used to having a human that needs to eat every once in a while), then why do the Reapers have a dinning hall and dinner? Anyways, just curious.
All in all, it's a nice YA read.
Before I start, this review does have a couple of spoilers, but I will give fair warning right before each one.
As for the review itself: is this book completely flawless? No. But I did have fun reading it, and the story is quite interesting and has promise.
Things I liked:
- I love the trope of sworn enemies that realize that the other side is not all that bad and become friends then lovers. It really works for me, and I liked the one in this book.
- Ash is a very interesting character, who as a Reaper would have every right to be cold and distant but instead is surprisingly gentle and kind. He goes out of his way to protect Lark, and is willing to challenge his own father and race to prove that they belong together. And I like how he even tried not to Reap for Lark’s sake.
- The brother-sister relationship here. Taron is adorable and I loved how (Spoiler ahead) he was willing to reconsider everything he believed in because he trusted his sister so much, to the point of eventually trusting and liking Ash as well. Lark had the instant-soul-mates feeling towards Ash, but Taron had no such thing. He had no reason to trust Ash besides “my sister trusts him, so I will too� and I loved it.
- Torak and his bond with Ash. I actually want to know more about it, how the bond works, how it came to be. But then again, I have a weak spot for human-animal friendships. Heck, I finished the book wanting a Barghest for myself, to be honest!
- (Some spoilers here but nothing too specific). The hints and openings that can be explored in the sequels, like the other race that no one knew about, the creepy voice, Killian’s plans, etc. I love a good mystery!
Things that I think could be improved:
- The main things by far were the pacing and the show-vs-tell. The story felt very rushed, and it is hard to really develop feelings for any of the characters when it is rushed like that, especially the secondary ones. I barely registered what had happened in one paragraph and suddenly in the next paragraph it was already a month later and they were in a different city, without any visible break in the narrative. The first two chapters alone are equivalent to 90% of the Hunger Games, down to an arena fight to the death. Take Benji for example, the boy from the arena (Minor Spoiler ahead). Lark mentions that the boy was also chosen from her village, and 5 pages later he is killing himself. Sure, it is shocking and sudden and sad, but if you want to really rip my heart out with this scene, then introduce me to the boy from the very beginning and make him a real person. Make him the baker’s son who always has flour smudged on his nose, or Lark’s annoying neighbor who never stops talking, or a boy who always runs up to Lark whenever she comes back to town with a large game in tow because he wants to see what she’s caught, or something. But introduce me to Benji way before he has his “moment� in the story, and not 5 pages before he dies. Just giving the character a name won’t make me care for them.
- I would have loved to see more from Serena, and even from the rest of Ash’s family (other from the we-must-kill-Lark moments). Again, maybe that was left out on purpose for the sequels, but I would have liked it.
- I love some good romance and flirting in books, but that’s just it: what I really like is the “thrill of the chase�. They had an instant connection, and that’s great! But a couple of days after being essentially bought as a slave by Ash, Lark is perfectly ok with him pulling her to his lap. I would have liked to see her being torn between her fear of Reapers and her growing love for one, fighting the pull at the beginning, and then slowly getting used to him touching her like that.
- A small inconsistency but it still got me confused: if Reapers consume souls for sustenance (to the point where Ash mentions that he’s not used to having a human that needs to eat every once in a while), then why do the Reapers have a dinning hall and dinner? Anyways, just curious.
All in all, it's a nice YA read.
February 19, 2021
A Sword of Greed and Envy is a young adult book, through and through. I really enjoyed the beginning of the story up until the second half, where I started thinking I should’ve read it when I was still 16! The sixteen year old me would’ve loved, loved, loved this book. The sixteen year old me wouldn’t have thought there was something missing.
The world creation was great. I loved the whole idea behind different creatures living in their separate zones or ‘Kingdoms� if you may. I could see that the author had really thought out how everything works in Maldara and there was a very good introduction to the world in the first chapter. However, later on, some things that I thought were rather important to the story were simply thrown in without much of an explanation. I’ve read a lot of YA and fantasy, so I understood, what M.C. Clay was conveying, but I would've loved it if there was more descriptions and explanations on certain parts of the book.
I liked the main character, Lark, right from the beginning. A strong, independent, capable girl. I had a slight comparison to Katniss Everdeen in the first chapters of the book. She lost some of her spark along the way and had a hard time making smart decisions. Part of the plot was driven by Lark not thinking things through before acting.
Ash I loved! He was this perfect dark and broody guy. Very protective. And deep down soft and sensitive. I think the conversations between Ash and ark were the best part of the story!
Overall, it was an enjoyable read that I think a lot of the younger readers would love to get their hands on.
The world creation was great. I loved the whole idea behind different creatures living in their separate zones or ‘Kingdoms� if you may. I could see that the author had really thought out how everything works in Maldara and there was a very good introduction to the world in the first chapter. However, later on, some things that I thought were rather important to the story were simply thrown in without much of an explanation. I’ve read a lot of YA and fantasy, so I understood, what M.C. Clay was conveying, but I would've loved it if there was more descriptions and explanations on certain parts of the book.
I liked the main character, Lark, right from the beginning. A strong, independent, capable girl. I had a slight comparison to Katniss Everdeen in the first chapters of the book. She lost some of her spark along the way and had a hard time making smart decisions. Part of the plot was driven by Lark not thinking things through before acting.
Ash I loved! He was this perfect dark and broody guy. Very protective. And deep down soft and sensitive. I think the conversations between Ash and ark were the best part of the story!
Overall, it was an enjoyable read that I think a lot of the younger readers would love to get their hands on.
February 20, 2022
Asked by M.C Clay for an honest review!!****
Wow!! What a great read! I was hooked on the relationship between Lark and Ash from the first meeting. I loved Lark as a strong female character who was unsure of her feelings for Ash. She was a fighter and a good one at that. She meets this guy, Ash and gets thrown into his world of Reapers and danger but her feelings grow for him.
Ash is all mysterious and handsome, just the way I like my book male characters to be like. He clearly cares about Lark from the first moment. He has to protect her from his evil mom and his evil vampire friend. At the end of the book something happens that I am surprised at, and I will have to continue to read on to find out what happens next!!! I suggest you all read this series!! My review does not do this book justices!!!!
Great Job M.C. Clay!! You got me hooked!!
Wow!! What a great read! I was hooked on the relationship between Lark and Ash from the first meeting. I loved Lark as a strong female character who was unsure of her feelings for Ash. She was a fighter and a good one at that. She meets this guy, Ash and gets thrown into his world of Reapers and danger but her feelings grow for him.
Ash is all mysterious and handsome, just the way I like my book male characters to be like. He clearly cares about Lark from the first moment. He has to protect her from his evil mom and his evil vampire friend. At the end of the book something happens that I am surprised at, and I will have to continue to read on to find out what happens next!!! I suggest you all read this series!! My review does not do this book justices!!!!
Great Job M.C. Clay!! You got me hooked!!
September 14, 2020
I really wanted to like this book and the premise was interesting, but it just didn't grip me at all! The whole way through felt like rote description of what was happening, with no emotion carrying through, nothing to get my heart rate up in dramatic scenes etc. This felt like the detailed draft/synopsis of a book that someone might make before actually writing it, describing everything that happened without any of the actual detail required to make a book. It was also incredibly short and only took just over 2 hours to read, further leading to the feeling that it was just a draft and not a real book.
I wish I could say I liked it, as I was given an ARC in exchange for a review, but I have to be honest and unfortunately this book didn't grip me like I'd want it to....
I wish I could say I liked it, as I was given an ARC in exchange for a review, but I have to be honest and unfortunately this book didn't grip me like I'd want it to....
June 14, 2021
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
At first, i was a bit afraid that i wouldn’t enjoy this book, but i honestly love the story and the characters! A strong female lead is always the right choice. In my opinion the descriptions and world building could have been elaborated more, same with some of the scenes. I felt like some chapters and parts had a very abrupt ending. Other than that i enjoyed the book and couldn’t put it down until i finished it. All the twists and the romance made it an entertaining read. I would recommend it to everyone who is into this genre. The ending left me wanting more!!!
At first, i was a bit afraid that i wouldn’t enjoy this book, but i honestly love the story and the characters! A strong female lead is always the right choice. In my opinion the descriptions and world building could have been elaborated more, same with some of the scenes. I felt like some chapters and parts had a very abrupt ending. Other than that i enjoyed the book and couldn’t put it down until i finished it. All the twists and the romance made it an entertaining read. I would recommend it to everyone who is into this genre. The ending left me wanting more!!!
August 20, 2021
This is my book, so of course I love it! But the bonus short story that is included is amazing and the illustrations and letters make the whole story even better! Don't miss out on this special edition of ASOGAE!!!
June 16, 2021
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange of my honest opinion(Thank you M.C. Clay💖!!)
I really recommend this book!! It's an awesome escape from reality!! I just seriously loved that world that she created!!!!!!!
Maybe... got some ⚠️mini spoilers⚠️ down here |
V
I really loved the book so much!! Loved the world that she created with this amazing creatures. Loved the creativity! Loved the way that it was written!!! It was amazing🤩!! Loved that the protagonist is a strong/empowering woman👑!!!! Loved the fight scenes SOO much!!! Loved how the author explains to us in the beginning of the book how that magical world� works and the creatures in them. Loved the characters!!!
I loved... almost... everything from the book. I think that the romance was kinda of fast, I wanted them to have more time knowing each other, more scenes of them. I liked the characters but we didn't get much of Ash, I wanted to know him better...
And THAT ending!! THAT CLIFFHANGER!!!!!!!!!Like what?!!?! I NEED moreeee!!!!!!!!!
4.5 stars!!�
I really recommend this book!! It's an awesome escape from reality!! I just seriously loved that world that she created!!!!!!!
Maybe... got some ⚠️mini spoilers⚠️ down here |
V
I really loved the book so much!! Loved the world that she created with this amazing creatures. Loved the creativity! Loved the way that it was written!!! It was amazing🤩!! Loved that the protagonist is a strong/empowering woman👑!!!! Loved the fight scenes SOO much!!! Loved how the author explains to us in the beginning of the book how that magical world� works and the creatures in them. Loved the characters!!!
I loved... almost... everything from the book. I think that the romance was kinda of fast, I wanted them to have more time knowing each other, more scenes of them. I liked the characters but we didn't get much of Ash, I wanted to know him better...
And THAT ending!! THAT CLIFFHANGER!!!!!!!!!Like what?!!?! I NEED moreeee!!!!!!!!!
4.5 stars!!�
June 22, 2021
First, I really liked the story and the idea. It was not the newest concepts in romance and fiction.... the book is a mix of Divergent, Twilight, Pride and Prejudice, and a lot of other books. With that said, I think the book moved super fast. The book is only 186 pages and for all the information and activity that is in the book, I think it should have been longer. There were many things I was yearning for more detail. I liked the end and hope that this is a series.
Content Review ( 1-5, 5 being big or very much ):
Violence 3.5 - war and fighting. The main character is a hunter/fighter and kills multiple people.
Sex 3- There is a sex scene ( not very descriptive ), kissing, and a part where they are barely clothed.
Language 2 - Swears a few times.
Drinking 2 - Through out the entire book one of the main characters is drinking and shows signs of drunkenness .
Content Review ( 1-5, 5 being big or very much ):
Violence 3.5 - war and fighting. The main character is a hunter/fighter and kills multiple people.
Sex 3- There is a sex scene ( not very descriptive ), kissing, and a part where they are barely clothed.
Language 2 - Swears a few times.
Drinking 2 - Through out the entire book one of the main characters is drinking and shows signs of drunkenness .
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
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