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Indigo Court #1
Night Myst
Eons ago, vampires tried to turn the Dark Fae in order to harness their magic, only to create a demonic enemy more powerful than they imagined. Now Myst, the Vampiric Fae Queen of the Indigo Court, has enough power to begin a long prophesied supernatural war. And Cicely Waters, a witch who can control the wind, may be the only one who can stop her-and save her beloved Fae prince from the Queen's enslavement.
Cicely Waters, a witch who can control the wind, has returned home to New Forest, Washington, after learning that her family is in danger. The Indigo Court holds the city in fear. People are vanishing, and strange deaths plague the town. And when she is swept into an unexpected and passionate reunion with Grieve, the Fae prince who taught her how to harness the wind, Cicely finds herself with a fierce and territorial lover.
But Greive has been enslaved in Myst's court, and now, caught between two evils, the lovers must survive the machinations of the Vampiric Fae queen, even as Cicely untangles the hidden secrets to her own heritage.
Cicely Waters, a witch who can control the wind, has returned home to New Forest, Washington, after learning that her family is in danger. The Indigo Court holds the city in fear. People are vanishing, and strange deaths plague the town. And when she is swept into an unexpected and passionate reunion with Grieve, the Fae prince who taught her how to harness the wind, Cicely finds herself with a fierce and territorial lover.
But Greive has been enslaved in Myst's court, and now, caught between two evils, the lovers must survive the machinations of the Vampiric Fae queen, even as Cicely untangles the hidden secrets to her own heritage.
317 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 29, 2010
405 people are currently reading
6458 people want to read
About the author
Yasmine Galenorn
216books3,453followersNOTE: I SELDOM visit ŷ and do very little here. Please see my website for more information on my work:
New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author Yasmine Galenorn writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance, and is the author of over 80 books & numerous series, including the Wild Hunt Series, the Moonshadow Bay Series, the Fury Unbound Series, the Otherworld Series, the Bewitching Bedlam Series, and more. She wrote for trad publishers for 20 years until she went indie in 2016.
She’s also written nonfiction metaphysical books. She is the 2011 Career Achievement Award Winner in Urban Fantasy, given by RT Magazine. Yasmine has been in the Craft since 1980, is a shamanic witch and High Priestess. She describes her life as a blend of teacups and tattoos. She lives in Kirkland, WA, with her husband Samwise and their cats. Yasmine can be reached via her web site at Galenorn.com. Sign up for her newsletter at:
NOTE: ALWAYS check the website and blog, and please sign up for her newsletter there to keep current with new and upcoming releases. Facebook, ŷ, and Twitter are NOT viable places to find out all this information.
New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author Yasmine Galenorn writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance, and is the author of over 80 books & numerous series, including the Wild Hunt Series, the Moonshadow Bay Series, the Fury Unbound Series, the Otherworld Series, the Bewitching Bedlam Series, and more. She wrote for trad publishers for 20 years until she went indie in 2016.
She’s also written nonfiction metaphysical books. She is the 2011 Career Achievement Award Winner in Urban Fantasy, given by RT Magazine. Yasmine has been in the Craft since 1980, is a shamanic witch and High Priestess. She describes her life as a blend of teacups and tattoos. She lives in Kirkland, WA, with her husband Samwise and their cats. Yasmine can be reached via her web site at Galenorn.com. Sign up for her newsletter at:
NOTE: ALWAYS check the website and blog, and please sign up for her newsletter there to keep current with new and upcoming releases. Facebook, ŷ, and Twitter are NOT viable places to find out all this information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 421 reviews
August 20, 2010
I had finished my last book and nothing was waiting for me at the library so I picked this up on a quick trip to the mall. Rarely do I just randomly buy a book without looking it up first and this why I guess.
I really didn't care for the book. The idea seemed terribly clever and interesting - vampiric fae? Cool! - but the execution was just dreadful.
The whole book felt like one giant cliche. And I just rolled my eyes through most of it. The parts I didn't roll my eyes at were the disgusting semi-rape. The main character hates the vampire and yet he uses his power to force her to submit, have her explain to him in graphic detail the sexual acts he wants to do to her and then is violently bitten and while she feels demeaned and broken, she also orgasms multiple times. It was sick. It wasn't erotic, it was a thinly veiled rape.
The main character also fucks another character - twice and almost a third time right in the middle of the kitchen as they're in the middle of fighting for their lives - and also makes mention several times about her attraction to a third character. Really? Is the author getting her inspiration from Anita Blake's sex life?
The book also ends extremely abruptly. Just suddenly, flip the page and it's done. Practically in mid-scene. It's even more unexpected as there's about 15 pages at the end of a preview for the upcoming book in a different series. So you think there's more pages but, no, not really.
Besides the initial concept, there's really nothing I have positive to say about the book. I didn't even want to finish it but I spent $8 on the damned thing so I forced myself to try. The fact that it took me five days to read it is clear indication of how tedious that process was.
I really didn't care for the book. The idea seemed terribly clever and interesting - vampiric fae? Cool! - but the execution was just dreadful.
The whole book felt like one giant cliche. And I just rolled my eyes through most of it. The parts I didn't roll my eyes at were the disgusting semi-rape. The main character hates the vampire and yet he uses his power to force her to submit, have her explain to him in graphic detail the sexual acts he wants to do to her and then is violently bitten and while she feels demeaned and broken, she also orgasms multiple times. It was sick. It wasn't erotic, it was a thinly veiled rape.
The main character also fucks another character - twice and almost a third time right in the middle of the kitchen as they're in the middle of fighting for their lives - and also makes mention several times about her attraction to a third character. Really? Is the author getting her inspiration from Anita Blake's sex life?
The book also ends extremely abruptly. Just suddenly, flip the page and it's done. Practically in mid-scene. It's even more unexpected as there's about 15 pages at the end of a preview for the upcoming book in a different series. So you think there's more pages but, no, not really.
Besides the initial concept, there's really nothing I have positive to say about the book. I didn't even want to finish it but I spent $8 on the damned thing so I forced myself to try. The fact that it took me five days to read it is clear indication of how tedious that process was.
March 8, 2020
Uhm....
All I can say is nope.
This book isn't worth my time. I expected so much more, and this is definitely not it.
I tried, I really did. But nope.
I didn't like the characters, the plot, the way it was written. The only thing I did find interesting was the actual idea, but frankly, I'm pretty sure I won't continue with this series.
Would I recommend it? No, probably not. There are so many books out there worth reading.
All I can say is nope.
This book isn't worth my time. I expected so much more, and this is definitely not it.
I tried, I really did. But nope.
I didn't like the characters, the plot, the way it was written. The only thing I did find interesting was the actual idea, but frankly, I'm pretty sure I won't continue with this series.
Would I recommend it? No, probably not. There are so many books out there worth reading.
June 29, 2010
Review courtesy of AllThingsUrbanFantasy.blogspot.com
NIGHT MYST was my first Yasmine Galenorn novel and I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised. I’d been sort of leery of her books as I understood them to be more in the erotica genre, but I would have to categorize this book as closer to urban fantasy romantica. Why? Because although there is plenty of sex (and it is explicit), it serves to support a richly complex world populated with fully fleshed out characters and not the other way around.
Sex and vampires go together like chocolate and peanut butter. Sure you could have one without the other, but aren’t they so much better together? The vampires in NIGHT MYST are dripping with sex, specifically Lannan. He can manipulate desires and enjoys pain and pleasure equally. His interactions with Cicely are scorching, seductive, and dirty. I went back and forth dreading and anticipating his scenes, which ultimately I think is a good thing.
But enough about the sex. The world building was my favorite part of NIGHT MYST. The series title, The Indigo Court, is named for the vampiric fae. A failed experiment by the Crimson Court (the vampires) to enslave the fae. Instead the vampiric fae became a separate court consumed with hatred and revenge. As NIGHT MYST starts, The Indigo Court, led by the first vampiric fae Queen Myst, have been quietly adding to their numbers and preparing for war:
And she arose from her deathbed in a gossamer gown, with eyes the color of starlight and hair as black as the night. And those who were her captors trembled, for the scent of death and madness emanated from her soul, and yet-she was not dead. She moved like the spiders that creep in the treetops, and none could look away. Taking her first captor in hand, she fed deep and ravenous. And so it was that Myst, Queen of the Indigo Court, was born from the blood of the dead. –opening of NIGHT MYST
Cicely and her first love, the aptly named Grieve, are caught up in the war, each one unwillingly connected to opposing sides. There is a rich history and mystery surrounding these two characters that unfolds slowly throughout NIGHT MYST. There is nothing neat or easy about their relationship. It’s messy and impulsive, and utterly compelling.
Overall, the writing wasn’t amazing, full of a lot repetition as Cicely was constantly explaining the situation to new characters. And I did groan at the number of clichés Yasmine used in her writing. But the pace was perfect for me. The plot raced along like Cicely’s Pontiac GTO, shifting seamlessly between adrenaline fueled action, heart pounding terror, and steamy passion. I’m already looking forward to Night Veil, book two in The Indigo Court series, which will be released in June 2011
Sexual Content: References to sex. References to homosexuality. References to incest. Several scenes of graphic sensuality. Several graphic sex scenes. A scene at a vampire orgy where various sex acts are described.
NIGHT MYST was my first Yasmine Galenorn novel and I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised. I’d been sort of leery of her books as I understood them to be more in the erotica genre, but I would have to categorize this book as closer to urban fantasy romantica. Why? Because although there is plenty of sex (and it is explicit), it serves to support a richly complex world populated with fully fleshed out characters and not the other way around.
Sex and vampires go together like chocolate and peanut butter. Sure you could have one without the other, but aren’t they so much better together? The vampires in NIGHT MYST are dripping with sex, specifically Lannan. He can manipulate desires and enjoys pain and pleasure equally. His interactions with Cicely are scorching, seductive, and dirty. I went back and forth dreading and anticipating his scenes, which ultimately I think is a good thing.
But enough about the sex. The world building was my favorite part of NIGHT MYST. The series title, The Indigo Court, is named for the vampiric fae. A failed experiment by the Crimson Court (the vampires) to enslave the fae. Instead the vampiric fae became a separate court consumed with hatred and revenge. As NIGHT MYST starts, The Indigo Court, led by the first vampiric fae Queen Myst, have been quietly adding to their numbers and preparing for war:
And she arose from her deathbed in a gossamer gown, with eyes the color of starlight and hair as black as the night. And those who were her captors trembled, for the scent of death and madness emanated from her soul, and yet-she was not dead. She moved like the spiders that creep in the treetops, and none could look away. Taking her first captor in hand, she fed deep and ravenous. And so it was that Myst, Queen of the Indigo Court, was born from the blood of the dead. –opening of NIGHT MYST
Cicely and her first love, the aptly named Grieve, are caught up in the war, each one unwillingly connected to opposing sides. There is a rich history and mystery surrounding these two characters that unfolds slowly throughout NIGHT MYST. There is nothing neat or easy about their relationship. It’s messy and impulsive, and utterly compelling.
Overall, the writing wasn’t amazing, full of a lot repetition as Cicely was constantly explaining the situation to new characters. And I did groan at the number of clichés Yasmine used in her writing. But the pace was perfect for me. The plot raced along like Cicely’s Pontiac GTO, shifting seamlessly between adrenaline fueled action, heart pounding terror, and steamy passion. I’m already looking forward to Night Veil, book two in The Indigo Court series, which will be released in June 2011
Sexual Content: References to sex. References to homosexuality. References to incest. Several scenes of graphic sensuality. Several graphic sex scenes. A scene at a vampire orgy where various sex acts are described.
March 15, 2011
This book is a brain cells killer. I will not recommend it to anyone of my acquaintance. I didn’t like any of the characters in this book. And my only feelings toward the main heroine were pity and irritation. I often caught myself on a thought, that she is a slutty, stupid and immature.
I didn’t like the style either. The language was poor and the author uses the rule of three far too often. I mean a constant repeating of the same things and phrases in hopes that the “stupid� reader will understand all the seriousness of the situation.
I managed to read this book until the end only because a friend asked my opinion on it. And even a good looking cover doesn’t make this book “OK�.
Usually I don’t make a review of books I didn’t like, because everyone’s tastes are different. I just wanted to alert you about this book, because the high rating on it is inadequate and you will be better off without it polluting your mind.
I didn’t like the style either. The language was poor and the author uses the rule of three far too often. I mean a constant repeating of the same things and phrases in hopes that the “stupid� reader will understand all the seriousness of the situation.
I managed to read this book until the end only because a friend asked my opinion on it. And even a good looking cover doesn’t make this book “OK�.
Usually I don’t make a review of books I didn’t like, because everyone’s tastes are different. I just wanted to alert you about this book, because the high rating on it is inadequate and you will be better off without it polluting your mind.
April 12, 2018
Rating: Four stars
I enjoyed the ride overall in reading this, and I'm still getting to know the MC, Cecily Waters, who has a load of secrets and an undisclosed past. This book is still in the early works so I will reserve my judgement for areas that were incomplete. I'm intrigued enough to read book two and discover more revelations. Plus, I can't wait to see how Cecily triumphs over her enemies.
I enjoyed the ride overall in reading this, and I'm still getting to know the MC, Cecily Waters, who has a load of secrets and an undisclosed past. This book is still in the early works so I will reserve my judgement for areas that were incomplete. I'm intrigued enough to read book two and discover more revelations. Plus, I can't wait to see how Cecily triumphs over her enemies.
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March 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/10/2019)! 🎁
July 6, 2011
4.5 stars - This book is how I'd like all my Urban fantasy to read ... good storyline, sweet world, good strong characters and amazingly sizzling hot chemistry (and lots of it). I enjoy Urban Fantasy for it's action packed storylines but I cringe when it takes 3 books into a series before the romance takes off and we get any action in that department. Night Myst hit it on the nose! You get action in all departments right from the start.
Yeahs ::
* The paranormal world created was easy to follow and slip into. Paranormal creatures: vampires, fae, were(shifters), witches, and new to the scene ... vampiric fae.
* Smoking hot chemistry between Cicely and Grieve. As well as Lannon.
* As a protag, Cicely was good. She had her WTF moments but not many. I never found her to be annoying, not once (huge plus in my book). Cicely and her friends aren't the strong kick @ss heroes that I normally see in books. But they are strong willed and have potential.
* Setting is based in Washington. Seems most Urban Fantasys are based here. I'm not complaining, Washington has great scenery to picture.
* Everything unravels nicely. No dull, pace stopping, wordy back stories. I really enjoyed the mini flashbacks of Cicely and Grieve's.
* Ending - the right revelations but still more questions to be answered (to keep the series going). Cliffhanger! Cliffhanger! Yes, there is a good one.
Nays ::
* The next book Night Veil (Indigo Court #2) will not be released until June 2011 :(
Plot 4 stars
Cover 5 stars
Setting 4 stars
Writing 4 stars
Originality 5 stars
Characters 4 stars
Romance/Chemistry 5 stars
Drama/Romance ratio 65:35
Ending 5 stars
Good enough to pick up again 4 stars
Yeahs ::
* The paranormal world created was easy to follow and slip into. Paranormal creatures: vampires, fae, were(shifters), witches, and new to the scene ... vampiric fae.
* Smoking hot chemistry between Cicely and Grieve. As well as Lannon.
* As a protag, Cicely was good. She had her WTF moments but not many. I never found her to be annoying, not once (huge plus in my book). Cicely and her friends aren't the strong kick @ss heroes that I normally see in books. But they are strong willed and have potential.
* Setting is based in Washington. Seems most Urban Fantasys are based here. I'm not complaining, Washington has great scenery to picture.
* Everything unravels nicely. No dull, pace stopping, wordy back stories. I really enjoyed the mini flashbacks of Cicely and Grieve's.
* Ending - the right revelations but still more questions to be answered (to keep the series going). Cliffhanger! Cliffhanger! Yes, there is a good one.
Nays ::
* The next book Night Veil (Indigo Court #2) will not be released until June 2011 :(
Plot 4 stars
Cover 5 stars
Setting 4 stars
Writing 4 stars
Originality 5 stars
Characters 4 stars
Romance/Chemistry 5 stars
Drama/Romance ratio 65:35
Ending 5 stars
Good enough to pick up again 4 stars
June 10, 2010
Why I read: Offered for review and I really wanted to try this author.
Favorite Quote: Don’t count your chickens before they turn into KFC.
Cicely Waters has found it is time to return home to New Forest, her hometown in the state of Washington. Having lived most of her life on the streets, going from town to town with her drug addicted mother, now that her mother is dead, Cicely is going home. But it is not a welcoming homecoming. People in New Forest are dead and going missing at an alarming rate � both humans and those that are magic-born. The crimes are too brutal and messy for the Vein Lords, or vampires to be held responsible. Cicely hears from her aunt Heather, that Marta, the town witch has been brutally murdered and has left everything to Cicely -including her spot the secret Thirteen Moons Society. But the membership is being depleted by a dark, evil force.
Although physically Cicely is returning home alone, she always has her wind elemental, Ulean, at her side, whispering in her ear of dangers that lurk ahead. Cicely is not just returning to confront this new, dangerous presence, but she also must confront the man she loved and left behind nine years ago. Grieve is a Fae prince and she has no idea if he still wants her in his life. When she finally finds him, the situation is dire. Grieve is not the same man she left years ago, now fearing this evil force may have affected him. When Heather goes missing, Cicely turns to her friends for all the help she can get. Grieve warns Cicely, Myst, the Mistress of Mayhem has moved into town � and mayhem is just what Cicely is about to dive into.
Night Myst is the first book I have read by Yasmine Galenorn and I am so glad I finally got my act together! She sets up a very interesting world, told in the POV of Cicely, with many characters walking that fine line between good and evil. You don’t always know who to trust and I love the tension that comes along with this type of story line.
The vampires in this book are very predator in nature, and what makes it really fun is that they are evil, and bid Cicely to do things she regrets � yet they aren’t the worst evil in the world. Cicely must resign herself to work with these viscous creatures in order to fight the Indigo Court, the even more viscous beings that roam the woods. She has to pick the lesser of two evils to survive, and it makes for a very interesting story. She is not the only one with tough decisions. Her love, Grieve has had to make sacrifices with very intense consequences. He is so dark, mysterious and her heart breaks for him. You want Cicely to say � screw it, come her you sexy man � but Grieve is not one to toy with.
While overall I enjoyed our heroine, I thought a few times Cicely made some silly mistakes while in the throes of great danger. Her and her friends tromp into the extremely dangerous woods ill prepared for what they are about to face. At one point, after sneaking into the woods and then making an unnecessary noise which alerts the villains of her presence she then questions whether Myst, the leader of the baddies will punish her victims for her intrusion. I think she might, Cicely!
Otherwise, this is a cool world Yasmine Galenorn has set up. I love the hard choices Cicely is forced to make. Grieve and Cicely also have some very sexy moments and there are many twists that really add to this urban fantasy. My favorite part is how the books ends � because you will be dying for book two, Night Veil due out next summer. Night Myst is a great start to a new series.
Favorite Quote: Don’t count your chickens before they turn into KFC.
Cicely Waters has found it is time to return home to New Forest, her hometown in the state of Washington. Having lived most of her life on the streets, going from town to town with her drug addicted mother, now that her mother is dead, Cicely is going home. But it is not a welcoming homecoming. People in New Forest are dead and going missing at an alarming rate � both humans and those that are magic-born. The crimes are too brutal and messy for the Vein Lords, or vampires to be held responsible. Cicely hears from her aunt Heather, that Marta, the town witch has been brutally murdered and has left everything to Cicely -including her spot the secret Thirteen Moons Society. But the membership is being depleted by a dark, evil force.
Although physically Cicely is returning home alone, she always has her wind elemental, Ulean, at her side, whispering in her ear of dangers that lurk ahead. Cicely is not just returning to confront this new, dangerous presence, but she also must confront the man she loved and left behind nine years ago. Grieve is a Fae prince and she has no idea if he still wants her in his life. When she finally finds him, the situation is dire. Grieve is not the same man she left years ago, now fearing this evil force may have affected him. When Heather goes missing, Cicely turns to her friends for all the help she can get. Grieve warns Cicely, Myst, the Mistress of Mayhem has moved into town � and mayhem is just what Cicely is about to dive into.
Night Myst is the first book I have read by Yasmine Galenorn and I am so glad I finally got my act together! She sets up a very interesting world, told in the POV of Cicely, with many characters walking that fine line between good and evil. You don’t always know who to trust and I love the tension that comes along with this type of story line.
The vampires in this book are very predator in nature, and what makes it really fun is that they are evil, and bid Cicely to do things she regrets � yet they aren’t the worst evil in the world. Cicely must resign herself to work with these viscous creatures in order to fight the Indigo Court, the even more viscous beings that roam the woods. She has to pick the lesser of two evils to survive, and it makes for a very interesting story. She is not the only one with tough decisions. Her love, Grieve has had to make sacrifices with very intense consequences. He is so dark, mysterious and her heart breaks for him. You want Cicely to say � screw it, come her you sexy man � but Grieve is not one to toy with.
While overall I enjoyed our heroine, I thought a few times Cicely made some silly mistakes while in the throes of great danger. Her and her friends tromp into the extremely dangerous woods ill prepared for what they are about to face. At one point, after sneaking into the woods and then making an unnecessary noise which alerts the villains of her presence she then questions whether Myst, the leader of the baddies will punish her victims for her intrusion. I think she might, Cicely!
Otherwise, this is a cool world Yasmine Galenorn has set up. I love the hard choices Cicely is forced to make. Grieve and Cicely also have some very sexy moments and there are many twists that really add to this urban fantasy. My favorite part is how the books ends � because you will be dying for book two, Night Veil due out next summer. Night Myst is a great start to a new series.
January 31, 2017
I am very partial to books about Faeries, Vampires, Shifters, witches etc etc. This one had them all over the place. Cicely a magic born witch, had been a drifter since her childhood, due to her bloodwhore junkie mother. A call home brings Cicely back to New Forest, back to her home, her family, and her lover Grieve. But when she gets there she doesn't know that magic born folk are disappearing all over the place, but then soon learns that the Queen of the Indigo Court Myst, the first Vampiric Fae, has made her home in New Forest, and has transformed most of the Fae living in the forest into her legion of Vampiric Fae, including Grieve. Cicely and her cousin Rhianna, and Rhianna's boyfriend Lee, and a Dreamwalker called Kaylin. Gather together to form a small band of magic users on the side of good, to help stop Myst taking over New Forest. Along with the sly backhanded help of the Vampires, and the Fae Queen of the Rushes and Rivers, she gets into deeper waters than she ever intended. SO while, trying to rescue her friends and family, and her lover, helping out the vampires and the rest of the fae not transformed, Cicely also has to learn about her own background. Man, if you ever think you got it rough, imagine what its like for Cicely. This book was intriguing, and a new world to explore. It reminded me of a modern day version of the 80's movie "Legend" except without Darkness and just add more Faeries into the mix. This is a series I will continue to read, and from how this book ended I will continue to enjoy. I hope if you read this book you will enjoy it too. :)
February 5, 2015
This book was filled with tell & not enough show. It also suffered from massive amounts of info dumping. I didn't find the characters particularly likable. The series' overall story arc has potential to be interesting if the author manages twist to keep reader's journey a fun read. (Although the end result is easily guessed.)They won the battle, but may have facilitated the enemies victory in the long run or so the book's message convayed. I rate this book a 2 stars.
Will I read the next installment in the series? Not likely.
Will I read the next installment in the series? Not likely.
February 11, 2022
RE-READ
More like 3,5 stars now. Re-reading this to continue to read the next book because back then at 2013 (okay, time sure do flies fast) I just read book #1 and didn't continue the rest. Also, I just realize the perversion of the vampire portrayed here really make it icky, and the first PoV didn't help to lessen it.
OLD review below, kind of spoilerish, so read at your own risk :P XD
Night Myst is the first book of Indigo Court series, and also the first time I try to read Yasmine Galenorn's books. I have her Otherworld series which in my opinion is pretty cool since she write it from 3 sister POV and each book, the POV always change. Also it have pretty covers too. Night Myst also has pretty cover, you know with "I'm sexy and I know it" pose, which I believe I will have difficulty to mimic it :)).
I like this book, like the Fae myth behind it. Yasmine Galenorn herself is shamanic witch and the Fae God and Goddess is her patron, so she definitely know what she write. Not just like another writer who doing research. Not that I think another writer is bad, but the myth of this book feel natural and captivating for me. The way Ms Galenorn write about vampire, fae, shapeshifter, even those creatures are not new to me, still provide a new info about their kind. Ms Galenorn make a new creature, unite Fae and vampire, called Vampiric Fae with their court, Indigo Court, and they're so cruel, also fierce. The vampire themselves, beside sensual creatures, they're also people who you want to messed with. Not that kind you want to cuddle too! (oh yea, thank to the O Sparkly One, who apparently is a joke to vampire world :)) )
The story is full action packed, and full of magic term. Cicely, the heroine can control wind and one of Uwilahsidhe, a Cambyra Fae, Fae who can shapeshift into animal. And Cicely can shift into owl. Now, that's what make Night Myst more unique. An owl shape shifter. Her lover, Grieve is a Summer Court Prince that can turn into wolf but sadly now he is part of Indigo Court and Cicely will do anything to save him. Add with Cicely's uneasy alliance with Lannan Altos from Veil Court (the vampire). Even no love triangle, because Lannan make Cicely (and me) sick with his cruel and chauvinistic behavior. Another character also make this story rich, like Cicely's cousin Rhiannon, her fiance Leo and Kaylin Chen, the dream walker. Also, not forget about Cicely's enemy, Myst the Queen of Indigo Court who somewhat have relationship with Cicely in the past.
Galenorn's writing is kinda ordinary for me, and maybe it just me, but some part feel flat. Though, I still want to read the next, because I love the world building and want to know how Cicely will beat Myst, save Grieve and if she can free herself from Lannan Altos
More like 3,5 stars now. Re-reading this to continue to read the next book because back then at 2013 (okay, time sure do flies fast) I just read book #1 and didn't continue the rest. Also, I just realize the perversion of the vampire portrayed here really make it icky, and the first PoV didn't help to lessen it.
OLD review below, kind of spoilerish, so read at your own risk :P XD
Night Myst is the first book of Indigo Court series, and also the first time I try to read Yasmine Galenorn's books. I have her Otherworld series which in my opinion is pretty cool since she write it from 3 sister POV and each book, the POV always change. Also it have pretty covers too. Night Myst also has pretty cover, you know with "I'm sexy and I know it" pose, which I believe I will have difficulty to mimic it :)).
I like this book, like the Fae myth behind it. Yasmine Galenorn herself is shamanic witch and the Fae God and Goddess is her patron, so she definitely know what she write. Not just like another writer who doing research. Not that I think another writer is bad, but the myth of this book feel natural and captivating for me. The way Ms Galenorn write about vampire, fae, shapeshifter, even those creatures are not new to me, still provide a new info about their kind. Ms Galenorn make a new creature, unite Fae and vampire, called Vampiric Fae with their court, Indigo Court, and they're so cruel, also fierce. The vampire themselves, beside sensual creatures, they're also people who you want to messed with. Not that kind you want to cuddle too! (oh yea, thank to the O Sparkly One, who apparently is a joke to vampire world :)) )
The story is full action packed, and full of magic term. Cicely, the heroine can control wind and one of Uwilahsidhe, a Cambyra Fae, Fae who can shapeshift into animal. And Cicely can shift into owl. Now, that's what make Night Myst more unique. An owl shape shifter. Her lover, Grieve is a Summer Court Prince that can turn into wolf but sadly now he is part of Indigo Court and Cicely will do anything to save him. Add with Cicely's uneasy alliance with Lannan Altos from Veil Court (the vampire). Even no love triangle, because Lannan make Cicely (and me) sick with his cruel and chauvinistic behavior. Another character also make this story rich, like Cicely's cousin Rhiannon, her fiance Leo and Kaylin Chen, the dream walker. Also, not forget about Cicely's enemy, Myst the Queen of Indigo Court who somewhat have relationship with Cicely in the past.
Galenorn's writing is kinda ordinary for me, and maybe it just me, but some part feel flat. Though, I still want to read the next, because I love the world building and want to know how Cicely will beat Myst, save Grieve and if she can free herself from Lannan Altos
July 14, 2014
while not the absolute worst book i have ever read, Night Myst definitely makes the bottom 10. the reason why i gave this book 2 stars instead of 1 is that, in spite of how terrifically awful it is, i still want to read the rest of the series and find out how it all ends.
the biggest problem with this book is the main character, Cecily. not only is she a witch, but you later find out that she's half-fae. and not just any old type of fae, but a special kind of fae that can shape-shift into an owl. that not enough for one person? don't worry. she's also been reincarnated, and in her previous life she was half-fae, half-vampire. the perfect description for Cecily is, to quote a friend, "marysue101." oh, she also wants to have sex with half the male characters and they all want to have sex with her.
speaking of sex, this book is supposedly a "romance" novel. i like romance novels. i read a fair amount of them. i like the cheap trashy ones you buy at the check-out line in the supermarket. those are Pulitzer Prize winners compared to this. first of all, the sex scenes seem to be less about sex and more about the author trying to shock you and trick you into thinking it's sex with coarse language. secondly, there is no passion in the writing. the sex feels like some normal matter-of-fact, boring thing. "he touched me. i shivered. we kissed." i would say that the imagery is terrible except that THERE IS NO IMAGERY.
to sum up the rest of what is wrong with this book, think of every supernatural creature you can. now imagine putting them into a big pot. let them interbreed for a while. then this book will explode out of it.
save your time and money. because the writing is truly, truly awful but the premise is interesting enough that you will want to buy and read the next part of the series.
the biggest problem with this book is the main character, Cecily. not only is she a witch, but you later find out that she's half-fae. and not just any old type of fae, but a special kind of fae that can shape-shift into an owl. that not enough for one person? don't worry. she's also been reincarnated, and in her previous life she was half-fae, half-vampire. the perfect description for Cecily is, to quote a friend, "marysue101." oh, she also wants to have sex with half the male characters and they all want to have sex with her.
speaking of sex, this book is supposedly a "romance" novel. i like romance novels. i read a fair amount of them. i like the cheap trashy ones you buy at the check-out line in the supermarket. those are Pulitzer Prize winners compared to this. first of all, the sex scenes seem to be less about sex and more about the author trying to shock you and trick you into thinking it's sex with coarse language. secondly, there is no passion in the writing. the sex feels like some normal matter-of-fact, boring thing. "he touched me. i shivered. we kissed." i would say that the imagery is terrible except that THERE IS NO IMAGERY.
to sum up the rest of what is wrong with this book, think of every supernatural creature you can. now imagine putting them into a big pot. let them interbreed for a while. then this book will explode out of it.
save your time and money. because the writing is truly, truly awful but the premise is interesting enough that you will want to buy and read the next part of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2013
Have you ever seen a good idea that was either derailed by lack of explanation, and/or the reading of it was hamstrung by the dialogue and editing? That's what happened here.
The framework of story that's set up has real promise - it's a bit weird (vampiric fae, warring with "regular" fae, with humans caught in the middle), but what sci-fi and/or fantasy story doesn't contain something weird? - but then it gets buried under terrible dialogue, awkward exposition, mistakes in editing (very few, mind you, but bad editing bothers me when I read; plus it's a print book, so there shouldn't be any glaring editing errors as far as I'm concerned), and several pieces of story that either get mentioned tangentially or get brought up with no explanation and then dropped.
I read through to the end, partially because I always try to finish a book if at all possible and partially because I kept wanting the book to redeem itself, but it never happened. I made it to the end, but the same problems I'd had through the entire book kept lingering, and nothing was done to resolve them: Who wrote these books they keep referencing? Why does an obscure town have such a huge vault of knowledge? Is that the case everywhere in this setting, or does something make this tiny town unique? What is this supernatural pact that everyone except the vampire fae have signed, and what is its significance? How much do regular humans know about supernatural creatures (since the only characters are either supernatural or magic-born)? These are just a few of the questions I never got answered.
I wanted to give this book 3 stars because I think the ideas had promise, but in the end the negatives outweighed the positives. I will not be reading the rest of this series, and probably nothing else by this author if the rest of her books are anything similar.
The framework of story that's set up has real promise - it's a bit weird (vampiric fae, warring with "regular" fae, with humans caught in the middle), but what sci-fi and/or fantasy story doesn't contain something weird? - but then it gets buried under terrible dialogue, awkward exposition, mistakes in editing (very few, mind you, but bad editing bothers me when I read; plus it's a print book, so there shouldn't be any glaring editing errors as far as I'm concerned), and several pieces of story that either get mentioned tangentially or get brought up with no explanation and then dropped.
I read through to the end, partially because I always try to finish a book if at all possible and partially because I kept wanting the book to redeem itself, but it never happened. I made it to the end, but the same problems I'd had through the entire book kept lingering, and nothing was done to resolve them: Who wrote these books they keep referencing? Why does an obscure town have such a huge vault of knowledge? Is that the case everywhere in this setting, or does something make this tiny town unique? What is this supernatural pact that everyone except the vampire fae have signed, and what is its significance? How much do regular humans know about supernatural creatures (since the only characters are either supernatural or magic-born)? These are just a few of the questions I never got answered.
I wanted to give this book 3 stars because I think the ideas had promise, but in the end the negatives outweighed the positives. I will not be reading the rest of this series, and probably nothing else by this author if the rest of her books are anything similar.
September 6, 2013
Really 3.75stars
Cicely Waters, a wind witch, has been summoned home to New Forest, Washington to help head off trouble that seems to be harming not only the magic born, but standard humans as well. When Cicely arrives she finds that most of the local coven has either been murdered or disappeared and she is also now head of the local coven. Cecily and her wind guardian are aware there is something lurking in the woods behind her aunt's house, and nothing is as she remembers it. Apparently Cecily's arrival is the catalyst for the vampire vs. vampiric fae war and everyone is a pawn.
While this origin story started on a high note, it quickly devolved and I felt as if I came in the middle of the story. This is such a dense and layered tale it's like trying to read the sun. I found the very telling synopsis a great guidepost in finding a way into the story. The writing style was fine as was the pacing but I had difficulty connecting with the characters. Bedrock (I think) was unveiled about halfway through and this clever concept lends itself well to plotting various mystery elements and suspenseful opportunities. A war between fae, vampiric fae and vampires with magic-born as pawns and warriors holds great appeal. More effort on character development wouldn't have been amiss here as I spent more effort trying to determine what was happening that the effect on the character.
I wanted to like this book more than I did and feel that the purpose of this story was all about preparation for the next release. I will read book two to see if there is any payoff in the great potential for the series and this also seems to be a series that needs an installment or two before things fall into place.
Cicely Waters, a wind witch, has been summoned home to New Forest, Washington to help head off trouble that seems to be harming not only the magic born, but standard humans as well. When Cicely arrives she finds that most of the local coven has either been murdered or disappeared and she is also now head of the local coven. Cecily and her wind guardian are aware there is something lurking in the woods behind her aunt's house, and nothing is as she remembers it. Apparently Cecily's arrival is the catalyst for the vampire vs. vampiric fae war and everyone is a pawn.
While this origin story started on a high note, it quickly devolved and I felt as if I came in the middle of the story. This is such a dense and layered tale it's like trying to read the sun. I found the very telling synopsis a great guidepost in finding a way into the story. The writing style was fine as was the pacing but I had difficulty connecting with the characters. Bedrock (I think) was unveiled about halfway through and this clever concept lends itself well to plotting various mystery elements and suspenseful opportunities. A war between fae, vampiric fae and vampires with magic-born as pawns and warriors holds great appeal. More effort on character development wouldn't have been amiss here as I spent more effort trying to determine what was happening that the effect on the character.
I wanted to like this book more than I did and feel that the purpose of this story was all about preparation for the next release. I will read book two to see if there is any payoff in the great potential for the series and this also seems to be a series that needs an installment or two before things fall into place.
February 19, 2011
The entire book I kept wondering when the climax would occur. I got to the last page and could not believe it was over. Cheated, I realized the story was never intended to be more than exposition for the next book in the series. What a let down.
August 9, 2017
This took me a while to get into. I just didn't connect with Cicely right away, though the world was intriguing. Grieve started out kind of a jerk, but now that I know some things, he's not so bad. I like all the friends Cicely has, like her cousin Rhiannon. The town is intriguing, too. I love anything having to do with Fae, so I'm glad I gave it a shot. Speaking of the paranormal creatures, I really disliked the vampires. At this point, I'm not sure when I'll read book 2. This was a good action-packed story overall, but I don't really feel drawn to pick up the next one. Although, I will say that Cicely being willing to do absolutely anything to protect those she cares about make her a good heroine, though it ends up putting her in some bad situations. Still, this was a good story and I recommend it if you're looking for a more romancy urban fantasy.
December 15, 2017
Auch wenn mir die Geschichte eigentlich hätte gefallen müssen, allein von der Prämisse her, so konnte mich die Umsetzung doch nicht überzeugen. Schade...
September 3, 2010
ORIGINALLY POSTED AT .
Cicely Waters, 26 year-old black-clad, green-eyed, tight-abbed, tattooed, street-fighting witch, has been summoned back to her Cascadian hometown so she can use her powers to help solve the mystery of a witch's murder and some strange disappearances. Soon Cicely finds that things are worse than she could have imagined when she learns that the Indigo Court, an old race of vampiric fae, are planning to take control of both their vampire and fae ancestors. Cicely and her pals will have to make an uncomfortable alliance with the Crimson Court vampires to beat this even nastier foe.
I don't normally read contemporary urban fantasy, but I wanted to try Night Myst because it's been released on audio by Tantor Audio and I love their books. As usual, their production was beautiful and perfectly cast. Cassandra Campbell narrated Night Myst and she is completely convincing with all of her roles and has a wonderful range of voices that suit both the female and male characters. Her voice for Cicely isn't whiny and her male voices are strong and masculine-sounding (two places where I've heard plenty of female readers go wrong). I definitely recommend Tantor's audio version for anyone who wants to read Night Myst.
So, how did I, who am admittedly not a fan of this subgenre, like Night Myst? The bottom line is this: Night Myst kept me entertained for 11 hours, but I probably will not read the rest of the series. I'm now realizing more and more that it's me: I just don't much like this type of novel. However, I think Night Myst will be appealing to those who do enjoy this subgenre.
The plot of this first book in the INDIGO COURT series is quick and interesting and, while it wraps up satisfactorily here (the characters accomplish much of what they set out to do), the real battle is just beginning and it promises to be intense. Cicely is a strong, likable heroine with a realistic voice and it's from her POV that we hear her story.
I hope her English teacher doesn't hear it, though, because s/he would almost certainly be dismayed at Cicely's overuse of words such as cerulean and sparkle (and all of its derivatives), tired expressions and clichés ("like a deer in the headlights") and some out-of-style slang and ugly vulgarity. I'm going to charitably forgive one ancient vampire for this bad simile and assume its construction was caused by extreme stress:
"Listen to me. If the Indigo Court rises up, then you'll sympathize with us so fast and so hard that you'll beg me to turn you! They would eat you alive, like piranha going after a deer that's stumbled in the forest."
...or perhaps he's been alive so long that he's witnessed some sort of transitional missing link that the rest of us aren't aware of...
Okay, so the language in Night Myst is uninspiring � it's a bit charmless and mundane. Even the parts that are supposed to be beautiful � descriptions of sparkly elementals, sparkly vampires, and sparkly snow � all feel gaudy, as if infused with purple neon and sequins like the pony toys my daughters play with. I also had some issues with all the heritage, powers, and magical gifts that Cicely suddenly and easily acquires.
Another big issue for me (and I recognize this as my problem) is that I just don't like vampires. Vampires "freak me out" (as Cicely would say) and sex scenes with them are more horrifying than arousing to me. I've tried to get over this little phobia, but I can't seem to.
Overall, Night Myst is likely to be a good read for those who like vampires, sparkles, and a strong kick-ass heroine. The audio version is a terrific production, so I recommend this format if you plan to read Night Myst.
Cicely Waters, 26 year-old black-clad, green-eyed, tight-abbed, tattooed, street-fighting witch, has been summoned back to her Cascadian hometown so she can use her powers to help solve the mystery of a witch's murder and some strange disappearances. Soon Cicely finds that things are worse than she could have imagined when she learns that the Indigo Court, an old race of vampiric fae, are planning to take control of both their vampire and fae ancestors. Cicely and her pals will have to make an uncomfortable alliance with the Crimson Court vampires to beat this even nastier foe.
I don't normally read contemporary urban fantasy, but I wanted to try Night Myst because it's been released on audio by Tantor Audio and I love their books. As usual, their production was beautiful and perfectly cast. Cassandra Campbell narrated Night Myst and she is completely convincing with all of her roles and has a wonderful range of voices that suit both the female and male characters. Her voice for Cicely isn't whiny and her male voices are strong and masculine-sounding (two places where I've heard plenty of female readers go wrong). I definitely recommend Tantor's audio version for anyone who wants to read Night Myst.
So, how did I, who am admittedly not a fan of this subgenre, like Night Myst? The bottom line is this: Night Myst kept me entertained for 11 hours, but I probably will not read the rest of the series. I'm now realizing more and more that it's me: I just don't much like this type of novel. However, I think Night Myst will be appealing to those who do enjoy this subgenre.
The plot of this first book in the INDIGO COURT series is quick and interesting and, while it wraps up satisfactorily here (the characters accomplish much of what they set out to do), the real battle is just beginning and it promises to be intense. Cicely is a strong, likable heroine with a realistic voice and it's from her POV that we hear her story.
I hope her English teacher doesn't hear it, though, because s/he would almost certainly be dismayed at Cicely's overuse of words such as cerulean and sparkle (and all of its derivatives), tired expressions and clichés ("like a deer in the headlights") and some out-of-style slang and ugly vulgarity. I'm going to charitably forgive one ancient vampire for this bad simile and assume its construction was caused by extreme stress:
"Listen to me. If the Indigo Court rises up, then you'll sympathize with us so fast and so hard that you'll beg me to turn you! They would eat you alive, like piranha going after a deer that's stumbled in the forest."
...or perhaps he's been alive so long that he's witnessed some sort of transitional missing link that the rest of us aren't aware of...
Okay, so the language in Night Myst is uninspiring � it's a bit charmless and mundane. Even the parts that are supposed to be beautiful � descriptions of sparkly elementals, sparkly vampires, and sparkly snow � all feel gaudy, as if infused with purple neon and sequins like the pony toys my daughters play with. I also had some issues with all the heritage, powers, and magical gifts that Cicely suddenly and easily acquires.
Another big issue for me (and I recognize this as my problem) is that I just don't like vampires. Vampires "freak me out" (as Cicely would say) and sex scenes with them are more horrifying than arousing to me. I've tried to get over this little phobia, but I can't seem to.
Overall, Night Myst is likely to be a good read for those who like vampires, sparkles, and a strong kick-ass heroine. The audio version is a terrific production, so I recommend this format if you plan to read Night Myst.
January 7, 2012
I found this enjoyable and with likable characters. The main character isn't annoying or bitchy. She doesn't whine. Cicely Waters does what needs doing. When she wants to rescue her lover, she doesn't place everyone in danger by doing so when it is a lost cause and bringing him with them would put them all at even greater risk. I like Cicely a lot and makes me want to continue on with her story.
The world depicted in this book is an interesting one and I feel that the author worked within the confines of the world she created well and didn't cause any unnatural events for this world to occur. The destined lovers thing can get old when you see it in so many books, but I liked it here. Cicely and Grieve just can't catch a break.
One thing is for sure, Cicely is a go getter. She's a pawn in a war being used by the vamps and the fae. Still, she does what she needs to do in order to keep her loved ones safe. I have to wonder how she'll be able to keep up with having to play on so many sides. Besides the little rag tag group they've created with Rhiannon, Leo, Kaylin, Anadey and now Peyton and Chatter, it seems there isn't any one to trust. Except for possibly Ulean and the owl.
Now Grieve is trapped with the Indigo Court and Myst has made her first actual appearance. There's an old grudge she's got against Cicely who learned yet another astonishing thing about herself at the end there. Guess she'll be keeping that to herself for a while.
The world depicted in this book is an interesting one and I feel that the author worked within the confines of the world she created well and didn't cause any unnatural events for this world to occur. The destined lovers thing can get old when you see it in so many books, but I liked it here. Cicely and Grieve just can't catch a break.
One thing is for sure, Cicely is a go getter. She's a pawn in a war being used by the vamps and the fae. Still, she does what she needs to do in order to keep her loved ones safe. I have to wonder how she'll be able to keep up with having to play on so many sides. Besides the little rag tag group they've created with Rhiannon, Leo, Kaylin, Anadey and now Peyton and Chatter, it seems there isn't any one to trust. Except for possibly Ulean and the owl.
Now Grieve is trapped with the Indigo Court and Myst has made her first actual appearance. There's an old grudge she's got against Cicely who learned yet another astonishing thing about herself at the end there. Guess she'll be keeping that to herself for a while.
August 13, 2016
I like to go into a series knowing nothing about it. Whether its good or not. It makes the reading experience even better. And wit this, it was just that. 3.5 for the most part and then near the end it slowly got to a 4. So you could say this is both 3.5 and 4 stars for me.
The cover I kind of like, though mostly for the tattoos and the forest background. Not a fan of the whole girl standing, posing on the cover. But still, the book was pretty good for the most part. I liked the MC, I liked the other characters, the story was also good and of course the pacing really helped moved the story along.
I couldn't help but be reminded of the Cassie series for some reason. Especially the character of Grieve. Not that that's a bad thing. Looking forward to reading more from this series. About time, I kept up with my list urban fantasy series to read.
The cover I kind of like, though mostly for the tattoos and the forest background. Not a fan of the whole girl standing, posing on the cover. But still, the book was pretty good for the most part. I liked the MC, I liked the other characters, the story was also good and of course the pacing really helped moved the story along.
I couldn't help but be reminded of the Cassie series for some reason. Especially the character of Grieve. Not that that's a bad thing. Looking forward to reading more from this series. About time, I kept up with my list urban fantasy series to read.
September 21, 2015
This was just ok for me. I didn't really feel any connection with the characters. There was a lot going on, almost too much, and a lot of the resolutions just felt too convenient.
January 22, 2019
Excellent book
July 24, 2019
Really glad this was a freebie. Would be pissed if I paid for it.
Did not finish. Skimmed most of it, got to the Emissary and her brother... just no.
Ewww and ick flags everywhere. The whole boyfriend who knew her at 6 years old, the fact he is somehow linked to her tattoo? The domineering possessiveness... just nope.
Did not finish. Skimmed most of it, got to the Emissary and her brother... just no.
Ewww and ick flags everywhere. The whole boyfriend who knew her at 6 years old, the fact he is somehow linked to her tattoo? The domineering possessiveness... just nope.
August 3, 2018
Over all, I really enjoyed this story! Fae, witches, weres and Vamps!
July 27, 2012
I've been a huge fan of Yasmine's Otherworld series for a few years now but have been busy and hadn't had a chance to dive into any of her other series. I won this one in a contest and I dived right in.
I really loved this book, even from the start. There's a lot of history and it was a tiny bit confusing at times trying to make sense of it all but to me that's pretty normal with any of the authors I read. Whenever I pick up a new book from a new author, it takes time for me to accumulate to the history of the world that the author has built. There is supposed to be a bit of mystery when authors write these books. I'd be severely disappointed if authors are writing a "series" and decide to disclose all the information in the first book... that doesn't leave much excitement/suspense for future books in this series and I think Yasmine does a beautiful job in enthralling you and giving you a bit of information here and there. I was a little disappointed that I tore through the book so fast but I'm pretty sure there are two other books out right now in the series and I'm going to be frantically buying them because I'm interested in the entire concept of the book and the characters and elemental's and fey and different creatures in the book.
Cicely is twenty-six years old and she's been on and off again on the run with a delinquent mother who dragged her all over and was always trying to get her next drug fix or trading her services as a blood whore so she could get more drugs. She stays with her mother because she feels guilty and responsible for her but then one day she dies... the vampire who had been feeding off her killed her.
Cicely's family her Aunt Heather and cousin Rhiannon want her home and the local witch who died left Cicely her shop and funds and supplies for the shop. Even though they aren't related for whatever reason she changed her will to include Cicely instead of any of her children. We know she does this for a specific reason, we just don't know why yet.
There are some Vampires aka Vein Lords, Elemental beings like Cicely's elemental Ulean who is a wind elemental and watches Cicely's back. We've got the Fae and we also have a new faction that pops up...the Vampiric Fae.
I don't want to spoil it too much for you but there's a bunch more to the story and some very interesting side characters. I'm really looking forward to continuing this series. I have seen quite a few 3 star reviews and I'm honestly a bit surprised... I'm curious if any of those 3 Stars are writers themselves? I've recently embarked on my own short story journey in writing before I venture to novels and let me tell you, there's a lot of work that goes into these stories with the story world building. I suggest for the big complainers to go write just 20-30 pages with a plot, back story, at least 4 interesting side/main characters, action, good dialogue....seriously, go try :) When you're done come back, and read your own review again. Just a suggestion :)
I really loved this book, even from the start. There's a lot of history and it was a tiny bit confusing at times trying to make sense of it all but to me that's pretty normal with any of the authors I read. Whenever I pick up a new book from a new author, it takes time for me to accumulate to the history of the world that the author has built. There is supposed to be a bit of mystery when authors write these books. I'd be severely disappointed if authors are writing a "series" and decide to disclose all the information in the first book... that doesn't leave much excitement/suspense for future books in this series and I think Yasmine does a beautiful job in enthralling you and giving you a bit of information here and there. I was a little disappointed that I tore through the book so fast but I'm pretty sure there are two other books out right now in the series and I'm going to be frantically buying them because I'm interested in the entire concept of the book and the characters and elemental's and fey and different creatures in the book.
Cicely is twenty-six years old and she's been on and off again on the run with a delinquent mother who dragged her all over and was always trying to get her next drug fix or trading her services as a blood whore so she could get more drugs. She stays with her mother because she feels guilty and responsible for her but then one day she dies... the vampire who had been feeding off her killed her.
Cicely's family her Aunt Heather and cousin Rhiannon want her home and the local witch who died left Cicely her shop and funds and supplies for the shop. Even though they aren't related for whatever reason she changed her will to include Cicely instead of any of her children. We know she does this for a specific reason, we just don't know why yet.
There are some Vampires aka Vein Lords, Elemental beings like Cicely's elemental Ulean who is a wind elemental and watches Cicely's back. We've got the Fae and we also have a new faction that pops up...the Vampiric Fae.
I don't want to spoil it too much for you but there's a bunch more to the story and some very interesting side characters. I'm really looking forward to continuing this series. I have seen quite a few 3 star reviews and I'm honestly a bit surprised... I'm curious if any of those 3 Stars are writers themselves? I've recently embarked on my own short story journey in writing before I venture to novels and let me tell you, there's a lot of work that goes into these stories with the story world building. I suggest for the big complainers to go write just 20-30 pages with a plot, back story, at least 4 interesting side/main characters, action, good dialogue....seriously, go try :) When you're done come back, and read your own review again. Just a suggestion :)
August 31, 2010
Cicely Waters is a witch who manipulates air. At the age of 6, she and her mom began a life on the run. Growing up, she watched her mom slip deeper and deeper into the clutches of her addiction until she finally lost her life to it a few years ago. Unable to understand why, she was unable to go home for good until the day she learns that the only family she has left is in danger. When finally she makes it back, it is o learn that for some it is already too late, and if she is to survive the darkness that grips the land, she must gather close every one remaining that she has ever held dear.
Grieve, a prince of the Fae, watched over Cicely as a child and to the best of his ability has continued to do so throughout her life. The tender love they once shared was thought lost after her stinging rejection the last time they met; yet their reunion reignites the love they share and sets fire to passions that will not be denied.
Time has changed much though. Now, the Queen of the Indigo Court has enslaved Grieve; the Queen of Rivers & Rushes who once ruled the area Fae is missing; and Fae, magic-born, and human alike are all disappearing in rapidly increasing numbers. Enemies become allies, allies become self-serving, new enemies come to light, and the factions grow as Grieve and Cicely fight for their love and their lives.
This is the first book in Yasmine Galenorn's incredible new Indigo Court series. I've been a reader of her's for some time now, and am already wrapped up in her Otherworld series. I was a little resistant to this one, afraid that it would mean the end of one. I'm very grateful to see that she will continue writing both (yes, I read that IN the book. lol).
I've always admired the dynamics of her storylines and characters, and while the two series have some similarities (female leads with unusual heritages, distant/missing fathers, reunited love facing seeming insurmountable odds, etc), there were unmistakable differences too. In the Otherworld series, the female leads are Lighter despite having faced darkness in their past. Although they accept change and the darkening it brings, they continue to fight to keep that Light firmly entrenched in their lives. Cicely's past experiences seem to lead to the opening of her story set in a very definite shade of gray. She seems to accept the Darkness far more readily than the Light, each point of Light seeming to break through to swirl around her - revealing moments of incredible character development.
The action was fast paced, the story line was smooth and engrossing, and the humor was dry and witty. If you like authors like Kim Harrison, I think you will definitely like this book. If you haven't tried Yasmine Galenorn's writing before, this is the PERFECT place to start.
Grieve, a prince of the Fae, watched over Cicely as a child and to the best of his ability has continued to do so throughout her life. The tender love they once shared was thought lost after her stinging rejection the last time they met; yet their reunion reignites the love they share and sets fire to passions that will not be denied.
Time has changed much though. Now, the Queen of the Indigo Court has enslaved Grieve; the Queen of Rivers & Rushes who once ruled the area Fae is missing; and Fae, magic-born, and human alike are all disappearing in rapidly increasing numbers. Enemies become allies, allies become self-serving, new enemies come to light, and the factions grow as Grieve and Cicely fight for their love and their lives.
This is the first book in Yasmine Galenorn's incredible new Indigo Court series. I've been a reader of her's for some time now, and am already wrapped up in her Otherworld series. I was a little resistant to this one, afraid that it would mean the end of one. I'm very grateful to see that she will continue writing both (yes, I read that IN the book. lol).
I've always admired the dynamics of her storylines and characters, and while the two series have some similarities (female leads with unusual heritages, distant/missing fathers, reunited love facing seeming insurmountable odds, etc), there were unmistakable differences too. In the Otherworld series, the female leads are Lighter despite having faced darkness in their past. Although they accept change and the darkening it brings, they continue to fight to keep that Light firmly entrenched in their lives. Cicely's past experiences seem to lead to the opening of her story set in a very definite shade of gray. She seems to accept the Darkness far more readily than the Light, each point of Light seeming to break through to swirl around her - revealing moments of incredible character development.
The action was fast paced, the story line was smooth and engrossing, and the humor was dry and witty. If you like authors like Kim Harrison, I think you will definitely like this book. If you haven't tried Yasmine Galenorn's writing before, this is the PERFECT place to start.
June 29, 2010
Yasmine Galenorn created another fabulous story and a wonderful set of characters. NIGHT MYST is the first book in the new Indigo Court series, which promises to be just as action packed and magical as her Sisters of the Moon series. Following Cicely Waters, an elemental witch as she struggles to discover herself while uncovering a dark force that has taken over her hometown, NIGHT MYST combines magic and mysticism with a fair amount of drama and adventure.
The one thing that I really love about Ms. Galenorn's books is her character development. The main plot of NIGHT MYST involves Cicely discovering the vampiric fae queen, MYST of the Indigo court. More dangerous than either vampires or fae, this deadly combination is definitely a force to be reckoned with. As we journey through the story and learn more about the dangers here, Ms. Galenorn gives us some good glimpses into Cicely and the troubled romance she has with the dark Grieve. Rather than just spouting out a quick backstory for Cicely, Ms. Galenorn weaves this into the book, allowing us to learn about Cicely just as she learns about herself. I found this method of pulling the reader into the story to be quite effective; it really helped bring the characters and story to life.
Speaking of characters - did I already mention that I love Cicely as a character? The fact that she can control the wind just makes her that much more awesome to me. Her "sidekick" is her air elemental and this added dimension to the story is like the icing on the cake.
As with her other books, Ms. Galenorn's writing style in NIGHT MYST is very clear and easy to read. She uses fairly realistic language and it is pretty easy to imagine someone sitting on the side of the road using the same dialogue that she gives her characters. Well, okay, perhaps minus the vampiric bloodsucking bit. At least I hope so anyway.
I believe that fans of the Urban Fantasy or Paranormal genres will definitely find something to love in NIGHT MYST. This is a robust story that keeps the reader guessing and anticipating from page one all the way through to the end. Also, previous fans of Ms. Galenorn's will be happy to note that this new series looks to be just as good as her others. I highly recommend it and am anxious to see where the story is going to go in future books.
The one thing that I really love about Ms. Galenorn's books is her character development. The main plot of NIGHT MYST involves Cicely discovering the vampiric fae queen, MYST of the Indigo court. More dangerous than either vampires or fae, this deadly combination is definitely a force to be reckoned with. As we journey through the story and learn more about the dangers here, Ms. Galenorn gives us some good glimpses into Cicely and the troubled romance she has with the dark Grieve. Rather than just spouting out a quick backstory for Cicely, Ms. Galenorn weaves this into the book, allowing us to learn about Cicely just as she learns about herself. I found this method of pulling the reader into the story to be quite effective; it really helped bring the characters and story to life.
Speaking of characters - did I already mention that I love Cicely as a character? The fact that she can control the wind just makes her that much more awesome to me. Her "sidekick" is her air elemental and this added dimension to the story is like the icing on the cake.
As with her other books, Ms. Galenorn's writing style in NIGHT MYST is very clear and easy to read. She uses fairly realistic language and it is pretty easy to imagine someone sitting on the side of the road using the same dialogue that she gives her characters. Well, okay, perhaps minus the vampiric bloodsucking bit. At least I hope so anyway.
I believe that fans of the Urban Fantasy or Paranormal genres will definitely find something to love in NIGHT MYST. This is a robust story that keeps the reader guessing and anticipating from page one all the way through to the end. Also, previous fans of Ms. Galenorn's will be happy to note that this new series looks to be just as good as her others. I highly recommend it and am anxious to see where the story is going to go in future books.
November 23, 2010
What started as an interesting concept, was just sort of Meh in the end. Night Myst sounded so interesting, and the concept really is cool, but there is very little character development, as a reader, you are dropped right into a story with very little knowledge. I didn't enjoy Cicely, the main character, I found her to be whiny, and stupid. I mean really. You embark on a rescue mission, and once you find the people you are going to rescue, you charge in and make noise so your enemies see you? Come on!
The whole book is very Romeo and Juliet. Lovers on opposite sides, with being re-incarnated soul mates and having lived previous lives etc. The Vampires were creepy, and not all that well developed or described if you ask me. I found the whole book to be rather ... boring and just well, incomplete.
I feel bad for Grieve. Oh, yea forgot to mention him. The star crossed lover. Literally. He has starry eyes.. Cicely left him when she was 17, tattood herself a wolf at some point, and then had an instant 'connection' with Grieve. Whom she loves and is a fae prince... and is now ready to start a life with. Only when she returns, New Forest is... New... Whod of thunk it? Grieve has been changed by the Indigo Court and goes back and forth from nice grieve to mean grieve.
I'd say it was more 2.75 stars out of 5. The world is interesting, but everthing else, and all the characters were flat and stupid
The whole book is very Romeo and Juliet. Lovers on opposite sides, with being re-incarnated soul mates and having lived previous lives etc. The Vampires were creepy, and not all that well developed or described if you ask me. I found the whole book to be rather ... boring and just well, incomplete.
I feel bad for Grieve. Oh, yea forgot to mention him. The star crossed lover. Literally. He has starry eyes.. Cicely left him when she was 17, tattood herself a wolf at some point, and then had an instant 'connection' with Grieve. Whom she loves and is a fae prince... and is now ready to start a life with. Only when she returns, New Forest is... New... Whod of thunk it? Grieve has been changed by the Indigo Court and goes back and forth from nice grieve to mean grieve.
I'd say it was more 2.75 stars out of 5. The world is interesting, but everthing else, and all the characters were flat and stupid
March 31, 2018
This puts a new spin on any fea book out there. It's just so believable, and new. I don't know of anyone else doing this specific kind of writing of fea. It's just awesome and I look forward to the next book, of which I've already started.
It gets dark, and then it's not. And it's that perfect in between book that if anyone who is into fea books, needs to read this book. Just IMO
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Update Second Read
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I Honestly didn’t realize how dark the series was until re reading it. But at the same time there was always hope, and friendship in the air waging the war against the darkness. So many flashbacks that would remind me of PTSD, but it wasn’t. It was a past life for One or more of the main characters. Good thing? That has yet to be determined. The darkness of what has happened in the life for said Wind Witch has prepared her. For what. Well that remains to be seen, but there is lots of snow to be played with, only for it to be stained, and only for the characters to grow and become who they are meant to be. Or grow who they are meant to be. Lots of secrets, lots of doubt, but its all for a cause to set thing right. Finally. Hopefully. Now? This book no. The next? I hope so, But There is five books. And hopefully I’ll re find out the answer to the books riddle. And yes. This is a new twist to faerie books. Very cool.
It gets dark, and then it's not. And it's that perfect in between book that if anyone who is into fea books, needs to read this book. Just IMO
~~~
Update Second Read
~~~
I Honestly didn’t realize how dark the series was until re reading it. But at the same time there was always hope, and friendship in the air waging the war against the darkness. So many flashbacks that would remind me of PTSD, but it wasn’t. It was a past life for One or more of the main characters. Good thing? That has yet to be determined. The darkness of what has happened in the life for said Wind Witch has prepared her. For what. Well that remains to be seen, but there is lots of snow to be played with, only for it to be stained, and only for the characters to grow and become who they are meant to be. Or grow who they are meant to be. Lots of secrets, lots of doubt, but its all for a cause to set thing right. Finally. Hopefully. Now? This book no. The next? I hope so, But There is five books. And hopefully I’ll re find out the answer to the books riddle. And yes. This is a new twist to faerie books. Very cool.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2015
Bummer.
The concept was unique. However, the execution was not good. It lacked focus and was sloppy and immature. In fact, it felt like something that my 13 year-old self could've written (I used to sneak-read Bodice Rippers at that age, so I could write a "story" with graphic sex scenes like the best of 'em).
I found myself skimming through parts which seemed like pure filler, and feeling disappointed when arriving at scenes that COULD'VE led to an amazing climax (no pun intended) or built up the flow into the next one. Instead, they'd veer into "WTF?" land, with downright out of place, hokey, awkward nonsense. As a result, I never connected with or even LIKED any character. In fact, the lead character, Cicely, was an impulsive, clichéd, weak, dog-in-heat that I could neither respect nor cheer for. And looking like a tattooed, goth chick did not magically make her a badass. At all.
Anywhoodle, let me go on record to state that I don't normally bother to write negative reviews, as I think that low star ratings speak for themselves. However, this story really disappointed me, because the premise was indeed unique, which gave it so much potential for development. But seeing said potential mismanaged when put into story form, completely turned me off.
The concept was unique. However, the execution was not good. It lacked focus and was sloppy and immature. In fact, it felt like something that my 13 year-old self could've written (I used to sneak-read Bodice Rippers at that age, so I could write a "story" with graphic sex scenes like the best of 'em).
I found myself skimming through parts which seemed like pure filler, and feeling disappointed when arriving at scenes that COULD'VE led to an amazing climax (no pun intended) or built up the flow into the next one. Instead, they'd veer into "WTF?" land, with downright out of place, hokey, awkward nonsense. As a result, I never connected with or even LIKED any character. In fact, the lead character, Cicely, was an impulsive, clichéd, weak, dog-in-heat that I could neither respect nor cheer for. And looking like a tattooed, goth chick did not magically make her a badass. At all.
Anywhoodle, let me go on record to state that I don't normally bother to write negative reviews, as I think that low star ratings speak for themselves. However, this story really disappointed me, because the premise was indeed unique, which gave it so much potential for development. But seeing said potential mismanaged when put into story form, completely turned me off.
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