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Darkest London #1
Firelight
Once the flames are ignited . . .
Miranda Ellis is a woman tormented. Plagued since birth by a strange and powerful gift, she has spent her entire life struggling to control her exceptional abilities. Yet one innocent but irreversible mistake has left her family's fortune decimated and forced her to wed London's most nefarious nobleman.
They will burn for eternity . . .
Lord Benjamin Archer is no ordinary man. Doomed to hide his disfigured face behind masks, Archer knows it's selfish to take Miranda as his bride. Yet he can't help being drawn to the flame-haired beauty whose touch sparks a passion he hasn't felt in a lifetime. When Archer is accused of a series of gruesome murders, he gives in to the beastly nature he has fought so hard to hide from the world. But the curse that haunts him cannot be denied. Now, to save his soul, Miranda will enter a world of dark magic and darker intrigue. For only she can see the man hiding behind the mask.
Miranda Ellis is a woman tormented. Plagued since birth by a strange and powerful gift, she has spent her entire life struggling to control her exceptional abilities. Yet one innocent but irreversible mistake has left her family's fortune decimated and forced her to wed London's most nefarious nobleman.
They will burn for eternity . . .
Lord Benjamin Archer is no ordinary man. Doomed to hide his disfigured face behind masks, Archer knows it's selfish to take Miranda as his bride. Yet he can't help being drawn to the flame-haired beauty whose touch sparks a passion he hasn't felt in a lifetime. When Archer is accused of a series of gruesome murders, he gives in to the beastly nature he has fought so hard to hide from the world. But the curse that haunts him cannot be denied. Now, to save his soul, Miranda will enter a world of dark magic and darker intrigue. For only she can see the man hiding behind the mask.
372 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 31, 2012
490 people are currently reading
21k people want to read
About the author
Kristen Callihan
48books13.8kfollowersKristen Callihan is an author because there is nothing else she'd rather be. She is a RITA winner and three-time nominee and winner of two RT Reviewer's Choice awards. Her novels have garnered starred reviews from Publisher's Weekly and the Library Journal, as well as being awarded top picks by many reviewers. Her debut book FIRELIGHT received RT Magazine's Seal of Excellence, was named a best book of the year by Library Journal, best book of Spring 2012 by Publisher's Weekly, and was named the best romance book of 2012 by ALA RUSA. When she is not writing, she is reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,013 reviews
February 15, 2016
Well, well, well. That was all sorts of awesome.
Expectations. They're everything. I fully believe that they can make or break a reading experience.
This book might have a lot of paranormal elements, but make no mistake, this is not an urban fantasy set in the late 1800s, and nor is this is a steampunk (seriously? Who even shelved it that way?).
This book is a historical romance. Straight up. With a shot of pyrokinetics, demons, and what I’m pretty sure might be a werewolf thrown in for good measure.
It has the same pacing, romance-to-plot ratio, ton parties, pretty ball gowns, insta-lust, and broody dark hero of some of my favorite HRs. And you know what they say. If it walks like one and talks like one�
Where this book differs from most HRs (aside from the paranormal elements) is with the plot. Gasp! There actually is one! And it’s a pretty unique one at that, filled with curses and ancient magic and demons and secret societies.
The male and female leads also break the mold. Okay, yes, he’s dark and broody, but that’s because he’s got some ACTUAL dark shit to brood about.
And this female lead? I kind of love her. In the opening pages of this book, she proves that she’s no damsel in distress in need of a white knight to save her. She can bloody well save herself, thank you very much. And she continues to prove that throughout the rest of the book.
She’s also not your average cut-and-paste Mary Sue. She’s not some blushing virgin that swoons at the sight of blood or shies away from sex.
I just…and she just…GAH. She’s a badass, OKAY???
The two of them together were hot. Literally. No really, they were ACTUALLY hot together. Don’t worry, you’ll understand exactly what I mean once you read the book.
And you will read the book. Won’t you?
This review can also be found at .
November 24, 2015
I found this to be a somewhat frustrating read. I don't like being "kept in the dark" in regard to certain things for so much of the story - only to have them all info dumped at 90% - especially when those things are intrinsic to the storyline.
Also, the connection between Archer and Miranda was slow in coming and I wanted more than I got when it finally came to fruition.
Don't get me wrong, the writing was great and the story line was ok...just a little too convoluted for me.
You can definitely see Callihan's growth from this book to more recent endeavors, i.e., The Hook Up and The Friend Zone.
All in all a decent read, just not what I was looking for - and NOT because it's a PNR - that's my original favorite genre, but rather, because as I said I found the storyline to be frustrating.
Also, the connection between Archer and Miranda was slow in coming and I wanted more than I got when it finally came to fruition.
Don't get me wrong, the writing was great and the story line was ok...just a little too convoluted for me.
You can definitely see Callihan's growth from this book to more recent endeavors, i.e., The Hook Up and The Friend Zone.
All in all a decent read, just not what I was looking for - and NOT because it's a PNR - that's my original favorite genre, but rather, because as I said I found the storyline to be frustrating.
August 11, 2017
Unique, exciting, poignant, thrilling, sexy, funny, romantic� these are the words I’d use to describe Firelight, and yet, it’s so much more! I can’t really compare it to anything else I’ve read and it can’t be lumped into a single genre because in this first installment of the Darkest London series, author Kristen Callihan gives us the beauty of historical romance along with the dark, edginess of paranormal and the magic of fantasy. All of these elements combined have made this one of the best series� premiers I’ve read in a very long time, maybe ever.
'She walks in beauty like the night; shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?'Miranda Ellis is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, and she is no ordinary woman. Since birth she’s possessed a very powerful gift, one she’d managed to keep hidden, but it only took one slip, one moment’s loss of control and her life, and the lives of her family, were forever changed. She is lovely, and certainly far better than he deserves, but Archer can't help it, he's drawn to her like a moth to the flame and he has to make her his.
‘I might call him a thing divine, for nothing natural I ever saw so noble.�Lord Benjamin Aldo Fitzwilliam Wallace Archer, Fifth Baron Archer of Umberslade is no ordinary man, but what makes him different is not a gift he was born with. In fact, it’s not a gift at all, rather the horrific consequence that comes when man thinks to play God. He's bitter, boorish, demanding, pushy... but Miranda can't seem to fight the attraction she feels for him. Despite the mask he wears to hide what he has become, and his secrets, despite everything about him, she wants him like she's wanted no one else.
Miranda and Archer are fabulous characters, both suffering from their own brand of torment, each one trying to save the other. Archer, so strong, so dangerously powerful and yet with a vulnerability born of foolish arrogance that makes me want to take him in my arms and love him forever. And Miranda... vulnerable not because of her gift but in spite of it. Apart they are lost, but together they are the perfect match, giving each other what they need to overcome the obstacles keeping them apart. And the sexual tension between Archer and Miri sizzled throughout the book and when they finally came together... well, it burned up the pages!
There were many wonderful quotes, but I'm going to share my favorite two. This first one is truly, truly romantic:
Wonderful, beautiful, blissful, gorgeous, lovely. Adjectives floated around in Archer’s head like cherry blossoms falling in late spring. He wanted to laugh, shout, and run amok singing at the top of his voice. Snatches of romantic poetry learned in his salad days came to mind. She walks in beauty like the night; shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? He smiled then, looking up at the ceiling above his bed. He certainly did not possess the talent to fit into words what he felt. Too bad Byron was dead. He’d have hunted him down and introduced him to Miri. The master poet would have found words to do her justice.And then this one... so poignant, as Archer lays his heart bare:
He spread his arms wide in entreaty before letting them fall. “I lied. I lied when I said your beauty does not affect me. I look at you, and I’m breathless, dizzy from it. I want to kneel at your feet and worship you. While the baser part of me wants to fling up your skirts and stick my cock in you until we forget our names.� His nostrils flared as he glared at her, accusation and pain mingling within his eyes.The bottom line - This is truly a great story. I started it not knowing what to expect, but was WOW'd from the first page to the last. The secondary characters stand out, demanding their own stories be told, and that makes me very happy because I can't wait to return to the world of Darkest London!
“But none of that matters,� he said, trembling before her, “because every day that I am with you, I am more convinced that God made you just for me. For in ninety years on this earth, no one has made me feel the way you do, as if every day is an adventure. You make me laugh. And I never laugh. I go around smiling like a witless fool. So yes, I kept it from you, because I am so desperately in love with you that the knowledge that you might love me too was irresistible. And I was afraid it would turn to dust should I take off that mask.�
This book was provided by netgalley.com in behalf of Forever, an Imprint of Grand Central Publishing.
January 8, 2012
4.5 stars. Not what I expected, but a great read all the same! I first heard of this debut book a few months ago and was instantly intrigued that it is a PNR series set in historical London 1880's. So when I noticed Netgalley had it I immediately requested it.
This book paints a vivid picture of a darker Gothic London, one plagued with cut throats and thieves, fathers who sell their daughters for a tidy sum, and cunning men willing to risk damnation of their very souls.
In this version of a 'beauty and the beast' theme, Lord Benjamin Archer hides his identity and disfigurement from the world behind a dark mask. Cloaked in the shadows of darkness, he spies the beautiful Miranda Ellis defending herself from would-be attackers and instantly finds himself enthralled. In time he arranges a marriage with Mira and whisks her off to his remote castle.
For years Archer has been obsessed with finding the cure for his 'illness'. He constantly fights his inner demons, and now struggles with a burning desire for his new bride. But when his friends start getting murdered and he is the most likely of suspects, Miranda's safety is all that matters.
I absolutely loved the darker, Gothic historical feel of this story. Archer is a tortured hero who feels he must hide from the world. Miranda slowly comes to learn of his 'illness' and other secrets, meanwhile hiding secrets of her own. We meet many other nefarious and interesting characters as well, including Mira's sisters who will have their own books in this series.
The paranormal part of the story is slowly revealed and therefor hard to explain, and in fact best left for the reader to discover. The world Archer and Miranda live in is the actual London 1880's, but we learn that not everyone is as one would believe. There are some people who have gifts, or curses depending on your point of view, that simply go beyond the imagination.
If I have any complaints it is that the romance was pushed to the later part of the book. However, there was a great deal of relationship building and tension between the H/h, so my complaint is small. Overall, Kristen Callihan has an amazing writing voice so I have no doubt this author will be a big hit with romance fans. I am excited to read the next book in this series, or whatever else she publishes.
This book paints a vivid picture of a darker Gothic London, one plagued with cut throats and thieves, fathers who sell their daughters for a tidy sum, and cunning men willing to risk damnation of their very souls.
In this version of a 'beauty and the beast' theme, Lord Benjamin Archer hides his identity and disfigurement from the world behind a dark mask. Cloaked in the shadows of darkness, he spies the beautiful Miranda Ellis defending herself from would-be attackers and instantly finds himself enthralled. In time he arranges a marriage with Mira and whisks her off to his remote castle.
For years Archer has been obsessed with finding the cure for his 'illness'. He constantly fights his inner demons, and now struggles with a burning desire for his new bride. But when his friends start getting murdered and he is the most likely of suspects, Miranda's safety is all that matters.
I absolutely loved the darker, Gothic historical feel of this story. Archer is a tortured hero who feels he must hide from the world. Miranda slowly comes to learn of his 'illness' and other secrets, meanwhile hiding secrets of her own. We meet many other nefarious and interesting characters as well, including Mira's sisters who will have their own books in this series.
The paranormal part of the story is slowly revealed and therefor hard to explain, and in fact best left for the reader to discover. The world Archer and Miranda live in is the actual London 1880's, but we learn that not everyone is as one would believe. There are some people who have gifts, or curses depending on your point of view, that simply go beyond the imagination.
If I have any complaints it is that the romance was pushed to the later part of the book. However, there was a great deal of relationship building and tension between the H/h, so my complaint is small. Overall, Kristen Callihan has an amazing writing voice so I have no doubt this author will be a big hit with romance fans. I am excited to read the next book in this series, or whatever else she publishes.
August 15, 2020
This book surprised me in the best way possible, thanks to Helena! I was looking for more historical romance to read and she suggested this book that has historical, paranormal, mystery, and fantastical elements to it and it was all so beautifully blended.
I didn’t know much going into this, even though I read the blurb. I’m so forgetful, I forgot about it as soon as I read it. I loved the journey it took me on, the world was great, and the characters I fell in love with. I wanted it to not end.
The ending was somewhat convenient but did I care? No.
Can’t wait to read more books by Kristen Callihan.
I didn’t know much going into this, even though I read the blurb. I’m so forgetful, I forgot about it as soon as I read it. I loved the journey it took me on, the world was great, and the characters I fell in love with. I wanted it to not end.
The ending was somewhat convenient but did I care? No.
Can’t wait to read more books by Kristen Callihan.
November 14, 2021
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Archer's finger grazed hers. "I feel you. As if you were connected to me by an invisible string." He touched his chest. "I feel you here. In my heart."
She couldn't think past the mad pounding of her blood. She swallowed painfully. "I feel you too."
Firelight is the first installment in the Darkest London series and can be read as a stand-alone. If I had to categorize this book I would say it is a Historical Fiction with heavy romance set in London during the Victorian era.
It combines elements of fantasy, mystery and paranormal which makes it a story brimming with intrigue and suspense and the romance starts with an arranged marriage.
The story follows a fiery heroine named Miranda Ellis, daughter of Hector Ellis. Miranda is plagued by a strange and powerful gift of Fire. It is her greatest comfort and the source of her deepest shame. She struggles with controlling her gift that one irrevocable mistake incinerated her family's fortune. In Victorian fashion, her father strikes a deal to marry off his daughter to the most wicked nobleman in all of London: the Dread Lord Archer
Benjamin Archer, a mysterious nobleman donning a black mask, for no one knows what lays beneath the other half of Lord Archer. Despite his power and wealth, he is a walking nightmare among the ton, a human but not entirely.
Three years prior, he meets a fierce red-haired girl that stirs something within him. When the opportunity presents itself, he pays Hector Ellis handsomely to take Miranda as a bride even though he knows it is selfish of him as a disfigured man to have her as his own but he cannot deny this acute desire.
Archer and Miranda are bound together in holy matrimony, however, as their new life begins a chain of mysterious murders arise and all the signs are pointing towards Archer.
Archer's curse haunts him and Miranda is plunged into a world of dark magic, secret societies and dangerous secrets connected to her husband's tragic past.
But there is no greater force than love, and both Miranda and Archer fall in a splendor of consuming passion and melting desire.
Oh, Archer. How could she have not seen it? Her breath came in sharp bursts. How many nights had she thought about her dark savior? The man with the haunted voice who would not show his face. Had he wanted to marry her from the start? If so, why did he not claim her then?
I'm always weak for a strong heroine and a tortured hero kind of romance but I'm glad this book came with a well-structured plot even if the threads of the story were somehow tangled halfway through but it finished with a satisfying and emotional ending.
The mystery element piqued my interest.
The fantasy element enthralled me.
And the romance just left me hot and bothered.
I must say that among all the elements present in this book, fantasy isn't the author's strongest feat and that is because the magic is not fleshed out enough but it did the job. That does not take away the fact that it felt like the gift was just a plot-device.
However, I enjoyed the author's flowy writing and she kept a steady pacing as the story unfolded. I did feel like I lost my grip on the story midway but thankfully it did not last long and I was back on track.
The world-building was excellent and helped me visualize myself walking through a dark and clammy London. The author managed to keep the setting cloaked in an eerie atmosphere that gave me the sensation of a dark shadow overlooking behind me. It was perfect because it sustained its gothic style.
And by no surprise would the romance be my favorite part of the book.
It starts with an Insta-love trope but fortunately the author remedies that with a torturing slow-burn that comes right after.
It's hot. I'm not kidding.
Archer despite being the tortured type of hero is not all that brooding. He has a vulnerable and soft side that just melts my heart. I love to see that side of male characters because authors usually do not bring out the sentimental side of the male hero just so they do not lose that hard edge.
My heart was constantly fluttering because the sexual tension was explosive.
"Know this, there is only one truth left to me." His trembling fingertips caressed her jaw. "That I love you." He said it again, his voice broken, his arms pulling her tightly against him. "I love you. The rest is darkness."
Her fingers curled around the smooth swells of his biceps. "Then let me be your light."
The sizzling chemistry between Miranda and Archer was consuming. I was almost squealing whenever there was a romantic scene and oh my god someone throw a bucket of ice on me.
“I need to hear your voice every day or I despair. You are the balance of my soul. I cannot lose you, Ben. I would not live through it.�
What made it better was that both Miranda and Archer were dynamic characters with very good characterization. Archer especially I found to be such a complex character. I felt his deep anguish and I felt his heavy yearning to be touched and it was torture.
Because we know he was simply a man, with weakness and frailties.
Who yearned for the same things all of us do--to love and be loved
The mystery surrounding West Moon Club, a secret society of scholars, was very intriguing.
The murderer on loose spilling blood everywhere near Archer and Miranda kept me agitated.
Archer's curse is shed piece by piece as fragments of his past come into light and his secrets surface. It brought me to the brink of tears.
I may have shed some tears to be completely honest.
Last but not least, if you believe that this story is a reminiscent of tales such as Beauty and the Beast and Phantom of the Opera I'd say you are correct.
I do believe the author borrowed some inspiration from those tales while maintaining her own originality.
I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did, I was sure I'd rate this not higher than 3.5 but I was pleasantly surprised by the end and I was deeply moved.
It definitely doesn't deserve its current ŷ rating.
Definitely recommend this to fans of historical romance that enjoy a tinge of fantasy, mystery and paranormal.
Archer's finger grazed hers. "I feel you. As if you were connected to me by an invisible string." He touched his chest. "I feel you here. In my heart."
She couldn't think past the mad pounding of her blood. She swallowed painfully. "I feel you too."
Firelight is the first installment in the Darkest London series and can be read as a stand-alone. If I had to categorize this book I would say it is a Historical Fiction with heavy romance set in London during the Victorian era.
It combines elements of fantasy, mystery and paranormal which makes it a story brimming with intrigue and suspense and the romance starts with an arranged marriage.
The story follows a fiery heroine named Miranda Ellis, daughter of Hector Ellis. Miranda is plagued by a strange and powerful gift of Fire. It is her greatest comfort and the source of her deepest shame. She struggles with controlling her gift that one irrevocable mistake incinerated her family's fortune. In Victorian fashion, her father strikes a deal to marry off his daughter to the most wicked nobleman in all of London: the Dread Lord Archer
Benjamin Archer, a mysterious nobleman donning a black mask, for no one knows what lays beneath the other half of Lord Archer. Despite his power and wealth, he is a walking nightmare among the ton, a human but not entirely.
Three years prior, he meets a fierce red-haired girl that stirs something within him. When the opportunity presents itself, he pays Hector Ellis handsomely to take Miranda as a bride even though he knows it is selfish of him as a disfigured man to have her as his own but he cannot deny this acute desire.
Archer and Miranda are bound together in holy matrimony, however, as their new life begins a chain of mysterious murders arise and all the signs are pointing towards Archer.
Archer's curse haunts him and Miranda is plunged into a world of dark magic, secret societies and dangerous secrets connected to her husband's tragic past.
But there is no greater force than love, and both Miranda and Archer fall in a splendor of consuming passion and melting desire.
Oh, Archer. How could she have not seen it? Her breath came in sharp bursts. How many nights had she thought about her dark savior? The man with the haunted voice who would not show his face. Had he wanted to marry her from the start? If so, why did he not claim her then?
I'm always weak for a strong heroine and a tortured hero kind of romance but I'm glad this book came with a well-structured plot even if the threads of the story were somehow tangled halfway through but it finished with a satisfying and emotional ending.
The mystery element piqued my interest.
The fantasy element enthralled me.
And the romance just left me hot and bothered.
I must say that among all the elements present in this book, fantasy isn't the author's strongest feat and that is because the magic is not fleshed out enough but it did the job. That does not take away the fact that it felt like the gift was just a plot-device.
However, I enjoyed the author's flowy writing and she kept a steady pacing as the story unfolded. I did feel like I lost my grip on the story midway but thankfully it did not last long and I was back on track.
The world-building was excellent and helped me visualize myself walking through a dark and clammy London. The author managed to keep the setting cloaked in an eerie atmosphere that gave me the sensation of a dark shadow overlooking behind me. It was perfect because it sustained its gothic style.
And by no surprise would the romance be my favorite part of the book.
It starts with an Insta-love trope but fortunately the author remedies that with a torturing slow-burn that comes right after.
It's hot. I'm not kidding.
Archer despite being the tortured type of hero is not all that brooding. He has a vulnerable and soft side that just melts my heart. I love to see that side of male characters because authors usually do not bring out the sentimental side of the male hero just so they do not lose that hard edge.
My heart was constantly fluttering because the sexual tension was explosive.
"Know this, there is only one truth left to me." His trembling fingertips caressed her jaw. "That I love you." He said it again, his voice broken, his arms pulling her tightly against him. "I love you. The rest is darkness."
Her fingers curled around the smooth swells of his biceps. "Then let me be your light."
The sizzling chemistry between Miranda and Archer was consuming. I was almost squealing whenever there was a romantic scene and oh my god someone throw a bucket of ice on me.
“I need to hear your voice every day or I despair. You are the balance of my soul. I cannot lose you, Ben. I would not live through it.�
What made it better was that both Miranda and Archer were dynamic characters with very good characterization. Archer especially I found to be such a complex character. I felt his deep anguish and I felt his heavy yearning to be touched and it was torture.
Because we know he was simply a man, with weakness and frailties.
Who yearned for the same things all of us do--to love and be loved
The mystery surrounding West Moon Club, a secret society of scholars, was very intriguing.
The murderer on loose spilling blood everywhere near Archer and Miranda kept me agitated.
Archer's curse is shed piece by piece as fragments of his past come into light and his secrets surface. It brought me to the brink of tears.
I may have shed some tears to be completely honest.
Last but not least, if you believe that this story is a reminiscent of tales such as Beauty and the Beast and Phantom of the Opera I'd say you are correct.
I do believe the author borrowed some inspiration from those tales while maintaining her own originality.
I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did, I was sure I'd rate this not higher than 3.5 but I was pleasantly surprised by the end and I was deeply moved.
It definitely doesn't deserve its current ŷ rating.
Definitely recommend this to fans of historical romance that enjoy a tinge of fantasy, mystery and paranormal.
December 4, 2013
This book doesn't fit in one simple category. It's historical... with elements of the paranormal. It's gothic, dark, dangerous and romantic. It was completely enthralling and I absolutely could not put it down.
It's been three years since the mysterious Lord Archer first met Miranda. She captivated him with her fearlessness and fiery disposition. Now he has made arrangements with her father to marry her. Miranda doesn't realize that Archer is the same man she encountered that night in the alley all those years ago. He is simply an imposing man, who wears a mask covering his entire face.
No one knows what lies beneath Archer's mask. But Miranda falls for the man underneath the disguise. And he falls for her. The love story is only the beginning, though. Archer is working tirelessly to find a cure for his disfigurement. He's part of a mysterious organization of immortality questers. Someone is gruesomely killing off his associates and framing him for the crimes. Archer is full of secrets, which are slowly revealed over the course of the book.
The slow unraveling of Archer's story is amazing. It's second only to the phenomenal love story between him and Miranda. Kristen Callihan takes sexual tension to an entirely new level. I have never hungered for a single kiss between two characters as much as I did in this book. Just a kiss and I was breathless.
Every tiny piece of Archer that is unveiled was like a small victory. Every touch, every emotional connection between him and Miranda was a gift for my greedy eyes. And believe me, I felt greedy... for every crumb. In most books, I would frustrated or annoyed at how long it took for the couple to get together, but here, it's done so well, it's like magic.
I did have a little trouble keeping all the men straight in Archer's club, especially when we were dealing with fathers & sons and courtesy titles mingled with real names. But it wasn't too overwhelming. The villain, once revealed, was not a huge surprise... but the "why" part of it was something I didn't see coming.
Archer is a fantastic tortured hero. Miranda is the one happiness he has found in so many long, miserable years. And she is a worthy and loyal heroine. She has secrets and strengths of her own, like an ability to wield a sword and to control fire.
The book is really quite extraordinary. It's different... something shining, sparkling, and unique in a sea of familiar and predictable paranormal and historical romances out there. I loved it. 5 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
It's been three years since the mysterious Lord Archer first met Miranda. She captivated him with her fearlessness and fiery disposition. Now he has made arrangements with her father to marry her. Miranda doesn't realize that Archer is the same man she encountered that night in the alley all those years ago. He is simply an imposing man, who wears a mask covering his entire face.
No one knows what lies beneath Archer's mask. But Miranda falls for the man underneath the disguise. And he falls for her. The love story is only the beginning, though. Archer is working tirelessly to find a cure for his disfigurement. He's part of a mysterious organization of immortality questers. Someone is gruesomely killing off his associates and framing him for the crimes. Archer is full of secrets, which are slowly revealed over the course of the book.
The slow unraveling of Archer's story is amazing. It's second only to the phenomenal love story between him and Miranda. Kristen Callihan takes sexual tension to an entirely new level. I have never hungered for a single kiss between two characters as much as I did in this book. Just a kiss and I was breathless.
Slowly, she cupped his cheek. The air grew heavy, her chest tightening with each draw of breath. Archer closed his eyes, seeming to steel himself, and she knew he meant to pull away again. The idea of it slashed at her breast. Suddenly, everything became quite simple.
Her hand slid to his neck as she closed the gap she could no longer tolerate. Archer's eyes snapped open, and a tremble ripped through him. "Don't..." The protest died as her mouth fitted to his.
A shock of feeling coursed through her limbs at his touch. His breath caught sharply as though he too felt the shock. His body grew taut as a bow, quivering with barely held restraint. And she knew then that as much as he desired it, he feared touching her.
Every tiny piece of Archer that is unveiled was like a small victory. Every touch, every emotional connection between him and Miranda was a gift for my greedy eyes. And believe me, I felt greedy... for every crumb. In most books, I would frustrated or annoyed at how long it took for the couple to get together, but here, it's done so well, it's like magic.
I did have a little trouble keeping all the men straight in Archer's club, especially when we were dealing with fathers & sons and courtesy titles mingled with real names. But it wasn't too overwhelming. The villain, once revealed, was not a huge surprise... but the "why" part of it was something I didn't see coming.
Archer is a fantastic tortured hero. Miranda is the one happiness he has found in so many long, miserable years. And she is a worthy and loyal heroine. She has secrets and strengths of her own, like an ability to wield a sword and to control fire.
The book is really quite extraordinary. It's different... something shining, sparkling, and unique in a sea of familiar and predictable paranormal and historical romances out there. I loved it. 5 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
September 11, 2022
I!!! LOVED!!! THIS!!! BOOK!!! Kristen Callihan just made all my monster romance dreams come true. 🥹
It’s never too early to get started on the Halloween reads (... right?) and this was the perfect book for the spooky, atmospheric vibe I was craving. Kristen Callihan, I can’t believe I never gave you a chance before! Sorry I’m such a dumbass! 🫠
Firelight starts out with a bang: Lord Benjamin Archer is a monster, and he’s on his way to kill someone. More specifically, Mr. Hank Ellis, who has frustrated his attempt to bring over to England a cure to his monstrosity.
However, on the way - more specifically, in the dark alley behind Ellis� house - Lord Archer meets Ellis� inhumanely beautiful daughter, Miranda, and falls in love with her immediately (though he would definitely not call it that). He has no choice but to let her father live, if only so that he doesn’t cause her pain.
Three years later, Miranda finds out her father has essentially sold her into marriage to Lord Archer, who she doesn’t know to be the man she met in the alley. After their brief (second) meeting, Miranda feels a connection to him right away, and agrees to go through with the wedding (although it should be noted that she’s already in a white dress at this point, lol).
Right after they become husband and wife, Archer is accused of murdering an old colleague by Miranda’s police inspector brother-in-law, and the evidence is pretty damning. The murder is only the start of a killing spree, taking out people Miranda knows were close to Archer, which begs the question: is her husband, who she’s taken a great liking to (and feels a crazy attraction toward), an actual assassin? How far is she willing to go to find out the truth? Also - will he ever give in and just smooch her?
This book was macabre and mysterious and gory, but the romance never became a side plot. Miranda’s feelings for Archer grew stronger by the day, even as he was accused of doing terrible things, and her confidence in his character was SO beautiful. Plus, he pretty much loved her from the moment they met but was incapable of admitting it, which is an unbeatable trope.
I’m so excited to get started on the next books in the series, and then to devour Kristen Callihan’s entire backlist!
It’s never too early to get started on the Halloween reads (... right?) and this was the perfect book for the spooky, atmospheric vibe I was craving. Kristen Callihan, I can’t believe I never gave you a chance before! Sorry I’m such a dumbass! 🫠
Firelight starts out with a bang: Lord Benjamin Archer is a monster, and he’s on his way to kill someone. More specifically, Mr. Hank Ellis, who has frustrated his attempt to bring over to England a cure to his monstrosity.
However, on the way - more specifically, in the dark alley behind Ellis� house - Lord Archer meets Ellis� inhumanely beautiful daughter, Miranda, and falls in love with her immediately (though he would definitely not call it that). He has no choice but to let her father live, if only so that he doesn’t cause her pain.
Three years later, Miranda finds out her father has essentially sold her into marriage to Lord Archer, who she doesn’t know to be the man she met in the alley. After their brief (second) meeting, Miranda feels a connection to him right away, and agrees to go through with the wedding (although it should be noted that she’s already in a white dress at this point, lol).
Right after they become husband and wife, Archer is accused of murdering an old colleague by Miranda’s police inspector brother-in-law, and the evidence is pretty damning. The murder is only the start of a killing spree, taking out people Miranda knows were close to Archer, which begs the question: is her husband, who she’s taken a great liking to (and feels a crazy attraction toward), an actual assassin? How far is she willing to go to find out the truth? Also - will he ever give in and just smooch her?
This book was macabre and mysterious and gory, but the romance never became a side plot. Miranda’s feelings for Archer grew stronger by the day, even as he was accused of doing terrible things, and her confidence in his character was SO beautiful. Plus, he pretty much loved her from the moment they met but was incapable of admitting it, which is an unbeatable trope.
I’m so excited to get started on the next books in the series, and then to devour Kristen Callihan’s entire backlist!
May 23, 2014
On April 27, 2014, Sarah and I decided to buddy read Firelight. This is the real text conversation (edited for clarity) that chronicled our painful journey.
Sunday, April 27
Sarah (S): I’m on pg 30. It’s okay, but I’m not wow’d…you?
Rachel (R): In the same boat. I had to stop and put my ereader on the charger and wasn’t that torn up about it. LOL
S: Haha! I got sleepy and put it on the nightstand � so same thing, in essence. :D
S: I just get easily peeved when the characters don’t grab me. And these don’t. The hero’s insta-boner in the prologue turned me off right away.
R: Dude, that had me rolling my eyes so hard. Attraction at first sight: natural. Boner at first sight: sex criminal.
S: Lolz. But accurate. :P
S: Pg 50-something now. Loooots of talky-talk & navel gazing by the hero.
R: Fuck.
R: This will make me doubt other reviewers now. At least I can trust you. :P
S: I am hoping it will pick up in the plot department. But yeah � ditto. O.o
S: Also re: insta-boner: personally, I’m attracted to guys with self control. Just cause they don’t bone up whenever the heroine sneezes or bats her lashes.
S: …FFS. So lame.
S: Dude, SOMETHING is putting me off this book. But I can’t put it into words. *scratches head* It’s something beyond the insta-boner, talky scenes, and Natalie Portman clone cover. Do you feel it too, or am I just grumpy?
S: Oh, joy � series bait scene! Luncheon with Miranda and her 2 quirky sisters. -___-
R: I’m wondering what could be worse � reading more of the book or having dinner with my in-laws like I just did. LOL
R: And no, I don’t think you’re too grumpy The writing is okay but everything is a little too much, I think.
S: I figured out 2 specifics, at least. 1) The hero and heroine are always monologuing about how they UNDERSTAND each other’s torments � which is really unbelievable because they don’t have any real relationship base.
S: 2) I’m on pg 123 now and we have yet to see the heroine’s much-hinted-at fire powers. Slow build-up is one thing, but c’mon. Give me something, at least. These guys only have 1 book for their story.
Monday, April 28
R: OMG, the scene where he watches her eat is so fucking tedious. D:
S: Wasn’t it? >__< I keep seeing reviews that prattle about the chemistry, but I don’t see it. At all. I don’t think half the reviewers would know ‘chemistry� if it bit them on the behind.
S: Just wait for the endless museum scene! You’ll be so thrilled. :D
R: I DON’T WANNA! :P The blurb made me think this would be plot driven, but the blurb is a liar.
S: ITA. >:( We should’ve been better prepared when we saw it was from Forever. But still. Not plot driven AT ALL.
S: Even that ‘tard Draw Down the Darkness had more plot. It was stupid and made no sense, but at least things happened.
R: Too much time is spent in their heads. I don’t have patience for that. Half the time, I get annoyed by MY head.
S: Don’t you like your thoughts rattling around that ginormous raptor skull? :D
S: But yes. Definitely. It’s the same boring “I love you but can’t tell you because I’m not good enough, but I still want you but I’m too dangerous for you� garbage as so many roms. FROM BOTH LEADS.
S: Also, no sense of Victorian at all. It feels more Regency than anything else. *scowl* Mentioning your corset sixteen times doth not make it 1880s. >:(
R: You’re right. The Victorian era has a very distinct feel to it, and the book fails to capture it. Even her trip to the jewel dealer seems straight out of a Regency.
S: It’s a peeve of mine because there are so few genre roms that really feel Victorian even when they’re supposed to be. Urgh.
Tuesday, April 29
R: Holy shit. I think the sun will set and rise again before these assholes finally kiss. They’ve been building up to it for pages. D:
R: And now they’re just touching tongues like a couple of freaks. WTF?
S: LOLZ. That scene� I was like DA FUCK?
S: I’m gonna make a massive push and try to finish that book by the end of my weekend. No sense prolonging the agony.
R: I’m kind of disgusted by it. The dude who threw the dagger probably did it because he couldn’t stand their lame weirdness anymore. O.O
S: Just wait for the alley scene that’s coming up. *facepalm*
S: Hahaha! No doubt. That guy is the hero! Just like poor misunderstood Harry the Hippo.
Reviewers note - See:
R: Ugh. At the rate I’m going, I’ll never finish this fast enough. I’ve read far worse, but this one annoys me.
R: Harry the Hippo is a goddamn American hero! Bwahahaha!
S: Ditto. I still can’t say exactly why. But though I’ve experienced much more pain, it’s just � blech.
R: Maybe we’ll know by the end, or maybe our combined reviews will decode the answer.
S: We can only hope our combined brain power is enough. O.o
R: Maybe we should just post this text convo and be done with it.
S: One thing I know: This “I love you but I’m not good enough for you so I’ll not love you even though I want to because I’m dangerous � from BOTH LEADS�
S: …it’s more than I can take.
S: …actually, that’s not a bad idea! Bwaha.
R: “Wah! I make fire but have so much control over it that I haven’t used the power on the page yet. Who can love such a monster??�
R: And don’t even get me started on Archer and his jaunty mask.
S: “And I don’t know anything about my magical power but I just somehow control it because reasons. Boohoo!�
S: With the mask underneath his mask! Haha! And it’s only on half his face. He’s V for Vendetta AND Phantom of the Opera! *swoooon*
R: At least make her a witch or bitten by a radioactive spider or something. Randomly being able to make fire because reasons is a lame superpower.
R: If Archer tries to blow up the Parliament building while singing Music of the Night, we’ll know this is just a really clumsy fanfic.
S: Yeah, mentioning this stupid power and never seeing it is such a lame bait and switch. I keep forgetting she’s even got the stupid pyro control or whatever.
S: Dude, we WISH this was such clumsy fanfic. At least that would make it funnier.
Tuesday, April 29
R: How the hell did Archer finger Miranda in an alley if he was wounded? Should she be covered in his blood? WTF is wrong with these idiots?
S: I hate all these people so much! The only one I don’t hate (yet) is werewolf Ian, but I’ll probably hate him too when he gets screentime.
S: Am I crazy, or is this book getting worse with every new chapter?
Wednesday, April 30
S: Stop the presses! I passed the halfway mark � and Miranda FINALLY used her nonsensical fire-power! :O
R: I haven’t even made it to werewolf Ian yet. *despairs* Was the use of her nonsensical fire power at least entertaining?
S: Yes and no. She burned a guy alive � yes. But there’s no sense of reality about it because, again, no explanation or groundwork or anything. She just � does. *glower*
R: Son of a bitch. -___-
S: Werewolf Ian is a jackass, but at least he doesn’t wallow in boring, plotless angst with every appearance. Though he’s the hero for book 2 (OF COURSE), so I’m sure that will change � but I won’t be there to see it. :P
S: I just finished yet another riveting soul-baring splooge. They lay on a bed in a dark room and held hands and talked about shit. JOY. >__<
R: I can’t put into words how intellectually draining it was for me to read that scene in the alley. And then all the talking while she nursed him. Blah.
S: OK, I also don’t hate the butler. Poor bastard, having to serve these 2 walking bags o� angst. :P
S: Dude. I know. It literally sapped my will to move.
R: True. I wonder what Archer’s hiding under his half mask. It should be badass, like a beast face or something, but will probably end up being some wimpy little scar that gives him feels.
S: Yeah. Either that or a vision of indescribable beauty. Something that bitchy ex-GF said made me wonder about the beauty thing.
R: If that’s the case, you’ll find me dead of an ereader blow to the neck. :P
S: Hahah. Baby Raptor will grow up strong and angry to have his revenge.
S: Gee, do you suppose she’ll have to burn away his fugliness or evulness or whatever? NONSENSICAL FIRE-POWER ACTIVATE!
R: He’s mentioned a curse. So I’m guessing there will be a dramatic Beauty and the Beast moment or whatever.
S: No doubt. And what’s this stupid West Moon Club shit about?
R: I think it’s some old Regency club Archer has with all those old dudes who are dropping dead. The curse must keep him young or something?
S: Aah yeah, you’re probably right. So the killer � er, HERO � is some ostracized member who went loony.
R: Why the hell are Miranda’s “loins� (my god, that word) tightening when she thinks about starting a fire? Is this like a pyromania fetish? O.o What a freak.
Thursday, May 1
S: That’s what makes her so DARK and EDGY, dude! Don’t you know anything about awesome romances? ;)
S: I’m at work and can’t finish Firelight! Oh noes! So sorry. Or not at all.
R: Miranda just set a bunch of shit on fire without any consequences, and now Archer’s skulking around in a skull cap. I hate everything.
S: You passed me! You lucky bint. :P
S: …wait, a skull cap? *headdesk*
R: Are you sure I passed you? I know you read the fire part, and this is just right after it.
R: Yes, a skull cap. -___-
S: Ooh. When they hold hands and cuddle? Yeah. I guess I blocked out the skull cap bit. >__< I’m on page 250 or something.
S: Y’know, I was gonna give it 2 stars, but it’s gotten so crap I might have to reconsider.
R: blah, I’m still stuck in the tedious scene between him and some dude talking about a ship. *is bored*
S: I stopped after the scene where he fights with Werewolf Ian and opens the stupid ring. OMFG, that STUPID, STUPID RING.
Friday, May 2, 2014
S: Wow, that carriage wrecking scene was � words fail. I did bark with pained laughter, though. Probably not what the author intended.
R: Oh, good. So now I have something more to (not) look forward to. :P
R: Also, have I mentioned that I fucking HATE the way Archer call Miranda Miri AND Miranda Fair. DAFUQ is up with those nicknames? O.o
S: I hate that, too. Jaysus, could they be more obnoxious?
Saturday, May 3
S: So I brought stupidass Firelight to work with me in hopes of chipping away at it, but I’ve been finding things to do instead. Lolz.
R: Dude, I’ve been outright ignoring it ever since I hit the boring-as-fuck part where Archer goes hunting for something with Leland.
R: In fact, I’ve been reading a book I read last year to pass the time. Bwahahaha!
R: No DNFing, though. We’ve come too far to give up now.
S: Nope, we will triumph!q I’m on page 260 now. Only 100 left to go.
Sunday, May 4
S: Okaaaay. Now there’s Roman soldiers and Egyptian demons involved. Da fuck. I can’t even deal with this book past midnight.
S: Newsflash: This book so DUMB. I honestly had no idea it would be this bad. I didn’t expect to love it like all the happy-slappy 5 star reviews, but c’mon. I thought it would at least earn a 3! >:(
R: It’s limping into a 1-star rating for me, and I’m still stuck on the part where he’s searching the totes secret club lair thing with Leland.
S: I had to stop at the end of the scene where Archer and Leland find that stupid sword. I couldn’t deal anymore.
R: It isn’t just boring. It’s AGGRESSIVELY boring.
S: I think I hate every single character. Impressive! And the paranormal shit is just � SHIT.
Tuesday, May 6
S: OMFG, if I have to read ONE MORE instance of these people’s belabored breathing � his/her breath hitched/caught as pain/emotion/lust knifed/cut/speared through his/her heart/mind/soul � STFU.
S: And let’s not forget all the inhaling/exhaling! Wheeeee!
R: Every word in that book is an antidote to happiness.
S: It burnssss! It burn us, preciousss!
S: The Lord Archer Translator Device: delete whatever he says and fill the blank with “Derp, derp, beep, beep, OMG I AM SO FUCKING EMO, derp, beep, I WANNA BONE MIRANDA SO HARD, duuuuuur.�
Wednesday, May 7
S: I’M DONE. FUCK YOU, KRISTEN CALLIHAN. I AM TRIUMPHANT!
R: So WTF, he’s turning into demon marble? *sighs heavily*
R: Congrats on finishing it. I feel like I’ll never get there.
R: Did I read it wrong, or did Miranda just discover that his dick is made of demon stone? Bah, I can’t.
S: Nope, you read it right. I was like: o_O
S: And I nearly tossed up my dinner when I read how HUGE he was going inside her, blah blah.
R: Is she going to let that thing inside of her??? O_o
R: I just read the part where he starts sobbing and had to quit for a minute because -___-
S: Yeah. Yeah, she is. Incredibly stupid as it sounds.
S: LOL. OMG, I forgot about that!
R: Question you probably won’t know the answer to: Wouldn’t his demon stone peen be hard ALL THE TIME?
S: You’d think that, right? But it wasn’t discussed. Miranda doesn’t as. All she does is wank on and on about his MOONSTONE FLESH.
R: LOL @ moonstone flesh. I’d blocked that out.
S: Oh, it comes back later. No worries. :D You haven’t gotten to the finale yet.
R: Shit.
Saturday, May 10
R: I finally finished the fucking book. D:
S: Yaaaaaaaay! We have triumphed! Now eat some chocolate and celebrate.
S: How was the final confrontation? Was it everything you dreamed of? Haha!
R: Calling it “dumb� would be unfair to dumb things.
THE END
Sunday, April 27
Sarah (S): I’m on pg 30. It’s okay, but I’m not wow’d…you?
Rachel (R): In the same boat. I had to stop and put my ereader on the charger and wasn’t that torn up about it. LOL
S: Haha! I got sleepy and put it on the nightstand � so same thing, in essence. :D
S: I just get easily peeved when the characters don’t grab me. And these don’t. The hero’s insta-boner in the prologue turned me off right away.
R: Dude, that had me rolling my eyes so hard. Attraction at first sight: natural. Boner at first sight: sex criminal.
S: Lolz. But accurate. :P
S: Pg 50-something now. Loooots of talky-talk & navel gazing by the hero.
R: Fuck.
R: This will make me doubt other reviewers now. At least I can trust you. :P
S: I am hoping it will pick up in the plot department. But yeah � ditto. O.o
S: Also re: insta-boner: personally, I’m attracted to guys with self control. Just cause they don’t bone up whenever the heroine sneezes or bats her lashes.
S: …FFS. So lame.
S: Dude, SOMETHING is putting me off this book. But I can’t put it into words. *scratches head* It’s something beyond the insta-boner, talky scenes, and Natalie Portman clone cover. Do you feel it too, or am I just grumpy?
S: Oh, joy � series bait scene! Luncheon with Miranda and her 2 quirky sisters. -___-
R: I’m wondering what could be worse � reading more of the book or having dinner with my in-laws like I just did. LOL
R: And no, I don’t think you’re too grumpy The writing is okay but everything is a little too much, I think.
S: I figured out 2 specifics, at least. 1) The hero and heroine are always monologuing about how they UNDERSTAND each other’s torments � which is really unbelievable because they don’t have any real relationship base.
S: 2) I’m on pg 123 now and we have yet to see the heroine’s much-hinted-at fire powers. Slow build-up is one thing, but c’mon. Give me something, at least. These guys only have 1 book for their story.
Monday, April 28
R: OMG, the scene where he watches her eat is so fucking tedious. D:
S: Wasn’t it? >__< I keep seeing reviews that prattle about the chemistry, but I don’t see it. At all. I don’t think half the reviewers would know ‘chemistry� if it bit them on the behind.
S: Just wait for the endless museum scene! You’ll be so thrilled. :D
R: I DON’T WANNA! :P The blurb made me think this would be plot driven, but the blurb is a liar.
S: ITA. >:( We should’ve been better prepared when we saw it was from Forever. But still. Not plot driven AT ALL.
S: Even that ‘tard Draw Down the Darkness had more plot. It was stupid and made no sense, but at least things happened.
R: Too much time is spent in their heads. I don’t have patience for that. Half the time, I get annoyed by MY head.
S: Don’t you like your thoughts rattling around that ginormous raptor skull? :D
S: But yes. Definitely. It’s the same boring “I love you but can’t tell you because I’m not good enough, but I still want you but I’m too dangerous for you� garbage as so many roms. FROM BOTH LEADS.
S: Also, no sense of Victorian at all. It feels more Regency than anything else. *scowl* Mentioning your corset sixteen times doth not make it 1880s. >:(
R: You’re right. The Victorian era has a very distinct feel to it, and the book fails to capture it. Even her trip to the jewel dealer seems straight out of a Regency.
S: It’s a peeve of mine because there are so few genre roms that really feel Victorian even when they’re supposed to be. Urgh.
Tuesday, April 29
R: Holy shit. I think the sun will set and rise again before these assholes finally kiss. They’ve been building up to it for pages. D:
R: And now they’re just touching tongues like a couple of freaks. WTF?
S: LOLZ. That scene� I was like DA FUCK?
S: I’m gonna make a massive push and try to finish that book by the end of my weekend. No sense prolonging the agony.
R: I’m kind of disgusted by it. The dude who threw the dagger probably did it because he couldn’t stand their lame weirdness anymore. O.O
S: Just wait for the alley scene that’s coming up. *facepalm*
S: Hahaha! No doubt. That guy is the hero! Just like poor misunderstood Harry the Hippo.
Reviewers note - See:
R: Ugh. At the rate I’m going, I’ll never finish this fast enough. I’ve read far worse, but this one annoys me.
R: Harry the Hippo is a goddamn American hero! Bwahahaha!
S: Ditto. I still can’t say exactly why. But though I’ve experienced much more pain, it’s just � blech.
R: Maybe we’ll know by the end, or maybe our combined reviews will decode the answer.
S: We can only hope our combined brain power is enough. O.o
R: Maybe we should just post this text convo and be done with it.
S: One thing I know: This “I love you but I’m not good enough for you so I’ll not love you even though I want to because I’m dangerous � from BOTH LEADS�
S: …it’s more than I can take.
S: …actually, that’s not a bad idea! Bwaha.
R: “Wah! I make fire but have so much control over it that I haven’t used the power on the page yet. Who can love such a monster??�
R: And don’t even get me started on Archer and his jaunty mask.
S: “And I don’t know anything about my magical power but I just somehow control it because reasons. Boohoo!�
S: With the mask underneath his mask! Haha! And it’s only on half his face. He’s V for Vendetta AND Phantom of the Opera! *swoooon*
R: At least make her a witch or bitten by a radioactive spider or something. Randomly being able to make fire because reasons is a lame superpower.
R: If Archer tries to blow up the Parliament building while singing Music of the Night, we’ll know this is just a really clumsy fanfic.
S: Yeah, mentioning this stupid power and never seeing it is such a lame bait and switch. I keep forgetting she’s even got the stupid pyro control or whatever.
S: Dude, we WISH this was such clumsy fanfic. At least that would make it funnier.
Tuesday, April 29
R: How the hell did Archer finger Miranda in an alley if he was wounded? Should she be covered in his blood? WTF is wrong with these idiots?
S: I hate all these people so much! The only one I don’t hate (yet) is werewolf Ian, but I’ll probably hate him too when he gets screentime.
S: Am I crazy, or is this book getting worse with every new chapter?
Wednesday, April 30
S: Stop the presses! I passed the halfway mark � and Miranda FINALLY used her nonsensical fire-power! :O
R: I haven’t even made it to werewolf Ian yet. *despairs* Was the use of her nonsensical fire power at least entertaining?
S: Yes and no. She burned a guy alive � yes. But there’s no sense of reality about it because, again, no explanation or groundwork or anything. She just � does. *glower*
R: Son of a bitch. -___-
S: Werewolf Ian is a jackass, but at least he doesn’t wallow in boring, plotless angst with every appearance. Though he’s the hero for book 2 (OF COURSE), so I’m sure that will change � but I won’t be there to see it. :P
S: I just finished yet another riveting soul-baring splooge. They lay on a bed in a dark room and held hands and talked about shit. JOY. >__<
R: I can’t put into words how intellectually draining it was for me to read that scene in the alley. And then all the talking while she nursed him. Blah.
S: OK, I also don’t hate the butler. Poor bastard, having to serve these 2 walking bags o� angst. :P
S: Dude. I know. It literally sapped my will to move.
R: True. I wonder what Archer’s hiding under his half mask. It should be badass, like a beast face or something, but will probably end up being some wimpy little scar that gives him feels.
S: Yeah. Either that or a vision of indescribable beauty. Something that bitchy ex-GF said made me wonder about the beauty thing.
R: If that’s the case, you’ll find me dead of an ereader blow to the neck. :P
S: Hahah. Baby Raptor will grow up strong and angry to have his revenge.
S: Gee, do you suppose she’ll have to burn away his fugliness or evulness or whatever? NONSENSICAL FIRE-POWER ACTIVATE!
R: He’s mentioned a curse. So I’m guessing there will be a dramatic Beauty and the Beast moment or whatever.
S: No doubt. And what’s this stupid West Moon Club shit about?
R: I think it’s some old Regency club Archer has with all those old dudes who are dropping dead. The curse must keep him young or something?
S: Aah yeah, you’re probably right. So the killer � er, HERO � is some ostracized member who went loony.
R: Why the hell are Miranda’s “loins� (my god, that word) tightening when she thinks about starting a fire? Is this like a pyromania fetish? O.o What a freak.
Thursday, May 1
S: That’s what makes her so DARK and EDGY, dude! Don’t you know anything about awesome romances? ;)
S: I’m at work and can’t finish Firelight! Oh noes! So sorry. Or not at all.
R: Miranda just set a bunch of shit on fire without any consequences, and now Archer’s skulking around in a skull cap. I hate everything.
S: You passed me! You lucky bint. :P
S: …wait, a skull cap? *headdesk*
R: Are you sure I passed you? I know you read the fire part, and this is just right after it.
R: Yes, a skull cap. -___-
S: Ooh. When they hold hands and cuddle? Yeah. I guess I blocked out the skull cap bit. >__< I’m on page 250 or something.
S: Y’know, I was gonna give it 2 stars, but it’s gotten so crap I might have to reconsider.
R: blah, I’m still stuck in the tedious scene between him and some dude talking about a ship. *is bored*
S: I stopped after the scene where he fights with Werewolf Ian and opens the stupid ring. OMFG, that STUPID, STUPID RING.
Friday, May 2, 2014
S: Wow, that carriage wrecking scene was � words fail. I did bark with pained laughter, though. Probably not what the author intended.
R: Oh, good. So now I have something more to (not) look forward to. :P
R: Also, have I mentioned that I fucking HATE the way Archer call Miranda Miri AND Miranda Fair. DAFUQ is up with those nicknames? O.o
S: I hate that, too. Jaysus, could they be more obnoxious?
Saturday, May 3
S: So I brought stupidass Firelight to work with me in hopes of chipping away at it, but I’ve been finding things to do instead. Lolz.
R: Dude, I’ve been outright ignoring it ever since I hit the boring-as-fuck part where Archer goes hunting for something with Leland.
R: In fact, I’ve been reading a book I read last year to pass the time. Bwahahaha!
R: No DNFing, though. We’ve come too far to give up now.
S: Nope, we will triumph!q I’m on page 260 now. Only 100 left to go.
Sunday, May 4
S: Okaaaay. Now there’s Roman soldiers and Egyptian demons involved. Da fuck. I can’t even deal with this book past midnight.
S: Newsflash: This book so DUMB. I honestly had no idea it would be this bad. I didn’t expect to love it like all the happy-slappy 5 star reviews, but c’mon. I thought it would at least earn a 3! >:(
R: It’s limping into a 1-star rating for me, and I’m still stuck on the part where he’s searching the totes secret club lair thing with Leland.
S: I had to stop at the end of the scene where Archer and Leland find that stupid sword. I couldn’t deal anymore.
R: It isn’t just boring. It’s AGGRESSIVELY boring.
S: I think I hate every single character. Impressive! And the paranormal shit is just � SHIT.
Tuesday, May 6
S: OMFG, if I have to read ONE MORE instance of these people’s belabored breathing � his/her breath hitched/caught as pain/emotion/lust knifed/cut/speared through his/her heart/mind/soul � STFU.
S: And let’s not forget all the inhaling/exhaling! Wheeeee!
R: Every word in that book is an antidote to happiness.
S: It burnssss! It burn us, preciousss!
S: The Lord Archer Translator Device: delete whatever he says and fill the blank with “Derp, derp, beep, beep, OMG I AM SO FUCKING EMO, derp, beep, I WANNA BONE MIRANDA SO HARD, duuuuuur.�
Wednesday, May 7
S: I’M DONE. FUCK YOU, KRISTEN CALLIHAN. I AM TRIUMPHANT!
R: So WTF, he’s turning into demon marble? *sighs heavily*
R: Congrats on finishing it. I feel like I’ll never get there.
R: Did I read it wrong, or did Miranda just discover that his dick is made of demon stone? Bah, I can’t.
S: Nope, you read it right. I was like: o_O
S: And I nearly tossed up my dinner when I read how HUGE he was going inside her, blah blah.
R: Is she going to let that thing inside of her??? O_o
R: I just read the part where he starts sobbing and had to quit for a minute because -___-
S: Yeah. Yeah, she is. Incredibly stupid as it sounds.
S: LOL. OMG, I forgot about that!
R: Question you probably won’t know the answer to: Wouldn’t his demon stone peen be hard ALL THE TIME?
S: You’d think that, right? But it wasn’t discussed. Miranda doesn’t as. All she does is wank on and on about his MOONSTONE FLESH.
R: LOL @ moonstone flesh. I’d blocked that out.
S: Oh, it comes back later. No worries. :D You haven’t gotten to the finale yet.
R: Shit.
Saturday, May 10
R: I finally finished the fucking book. D:
S: Yaaaaaaaay! We have triumphed! Now eat some chocolate and celebrate.
S: How was the final confrontation? Was it everything you dreamed of? Haha!
R: Calling it “dumb� would be unfair to dumb things.
THE END
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2014
Despite rough beginnings, Firelight by Kristen Callihan ends as a fun debut.
Callihan worried me when Firelight opened with one cliché stumbling over another cliché, smoking another cliché. The opening revealed some of Callihan's weaknesses, i.e. a tendency to wax purple when attempting flowery scenery, a bit of exaggerated insta-love, a beautiful-but-not heroine, and some self-conscious references to English culture by English characters. When I saw the girl in trousers, I groaned.
However, Firelight flies the gates with an action scene, and only a chapter or two further, Callihan abandons those problems and hits her stride with tighter language and a tighter, no-nonsense narrative. She doesn't waste pages on slow-as-molasses internal hand-wringing, parlor tittering, or shopping trips. Her pacing's smooth, fast, and she zooms in with laser focus on the questions that most interest her reader: the mystery and the romance. Action romance writers, take note.
Firelight leaves awkward insta-love behind when protagonists Miranda and Ben marry and reveals the novel's treasure: the dynamic unfolding between Miranda and Ben as they learn each other and learn to trust and admire one another. Miranda and Ben themselves feel realistic and fleshed enough that one can predict their reactions, especially as we read the perspectives of both characters.
I knew the villain early on, but the real mystery, Ben's identity and history, kept me reading, as well as Miranda and Ben's adventures investigating the crime or each other. A few Misunderstandings notwithstanding, they weathered the requisite relationship obstacles heathily enough to convince me of a future together. They actually seem to like and know each other. Also, 500 pts. for a moving ending.
I don't want to spoil, but I'll say that Callihan builds a unique mythos suited to her period. I doubt the next book just a bit because she borrows a more prevalent, dare I say, tired myth. We'll see if she breathes new life into it. I like the hero. I recommend Firelight if you love Beauty & the Beast tales, mystery, or action. Don't let the historical tag stop you; it's accessible to everyone. Also, the alley scene is the new Chapter 32. I'm between three and four stars.
Callihan worried me when Firelight opened with one cliché stumbling over another cliché, smoking another cliché. The opening revealed some of Callihan's weaknesses, i.e. a tendency to wax purple when attempting flowery scenery, a bit of exaggerated insta-love, a beautiful-but-not heroine, and some self-conscious references to English culture by English characters. When I saw the girl in trousers, I groaned.
However, Firelight flies the gates with an action scene, and only a chapter or two further, Callihan abandons those problems and hits her stride with tighter language and a tighter, no-nonsense narrative. She doesn't waste pages on slow-as-molasses internal hand-wringing, parlor tittering, or shopping trips. Her pacing's smooth, fast, and she zooms in with laser focus on the questions that most interest her reader: the mystery and the romance. Action romance writers, take note.
Firelight leaves awkward insta-love behind when protagonists Miranda and Ben marry and reveals the novel's treasure: the dynamic unfolding between Miranda and Ben as they learn each other and learn to trust and admire one another. Miranda and Ben themselves feel realistic and fleshed enough that one can predict their reactions, especially as we read the perspectives of both characters.
I knew the villain early on, but the real mystery, Ben's identity and history, kept me reading, as well as Miranda and Ben's adventures investigating the crime or each other. A few Misunderstandings notwithstanding, they weathered the requisite relationship obstacles heathily enough to convince me of a future together. They actually seem to like and know each other. Also, 500 pts. for a moving ending.
I don't want to spoil, but I'll say that Callihan builds a unique mythos suited to her period. I doubt the next book just a bit because she borrows a more prevalent, dare I say, tired myth. We'll see if she breathes new life into it. I like the hero. I recommend Firelight if you love Beauty & the Beast tales, mystery, or action. Don't let the historical tag stop you; it's accessible to everyone. Also, the alley scene is the new Chapter 32. I'm between three and four stars.
October 6, 2019
Excellent!
RTC
RTC
August 5, 2016
This was great :) Paranormal wrapped in a historical setting, with a gothic feel to it :) A new combination for me, and I really liked it :)
The beginning reminded me of "A Rose in winter", it's very similar, both heroes wear masks and are rumored to be vicious murderers. In both novels they pretty much force the heroine to marry them, there was actually an identical scene where they eat at his house after the wedding, actually she eats and he doesn't because of his mask, it was like, identical. And in both novels there are murders which are linked to the masked character and he's accused of commiting them. But there it stops. Archer is really disfigured (although it's not known what is it that he hides behind the mask untill almost to the end), and he has a craving for murder which he constantly fights. He's powerful, fast, and doesn't age like ordinary humans. Miranda has a gift (or a curse lol), she can control and make fire with her mind.
I liked them both as a couple, Archer has been in love with her for three years before their marriage, and even though he knows he shouldn't involve her in his dangerous world, he cannot resist having her in his life. The attraction was excellent, even though most of the time Archer was fighting it, sometimes even Miranda, fearing she would hurt him with her gift.
The best thing about this was the mystery, and what it turned out to be. I LOVED the fact that it was something new, I didn't expext it, sometimes I thought he was a vampire, then a werewolf, then I really didn't know what he was supposed to be lol, and I'm so glad the author created something different and didn't recycle some classic pnr creature. The only thing that was missing here was the explanation of Miranda's gift. It just said she was born with it and that was that. I just wish the author made something up, like she was a druid decendant or something XD (there are druids mentioned in this book so it would make sense XD)
Can't wait for the next book, the hero was in this one, LOVED him <3
The beginning reminded me of "A Rose in winter", it's very similar, both heroes wear masks and are rumored to be vicious murderers. In both novels they pretty much force the heroine to marry them, there was actually an identical scene where they eat at his house after the wedding, actually she eats and he doesn't because of his mask, it was like, identical. And in both novels there are murders which are linked to the masked character and he's accused of commiting them. But there it stops. Archer is really disfigured (although it's not known what is it that he hides behind the mask untill almost to the end), and he has a craving for murder which he constantly fights. He's powerful, fast, and doesn't age like ordinary humans. Miranda has a gift (or a curse lol), she can control and make fire with her mind.
I liked them both as a couple, Archer has been in love with her for three years before their marriage, and even though he knows he shouldn't involve her in his dangerous world, he cannot resist having her in his life. The attraction was excellent, even though most of the time Archer was fighting it, sometimes even Miranda, fearing she would hurt him with her gift.
The best thing about this was the mystery, and what it turned out to be. I LOVED the fact that it was something new, I didn't expext it, sometimes I thought he was a vampire, then a werewolf, then I really didn't know what he was supposed to be lol, and I'm so glad the author created something different and didn't recycle some classic pnr creature. The only thing that was missing here was the explanation of Miranda's gift. It just said she was born with it and that was that. I just wish the author made something up, like she was a druid decendant or something XD (there are druids mentioned in this book so it would make sense XD)
Can't wait for the next book, the hero was in this one, LOVED him <3
March 24, 2017
Curse you, Firelight. I begged for a reprieve, & you granted no quarter. But the time has come. This battle of titans has reached a breaking point. Crank up the AC/DC & slip into your peril-sensitive sunglasses, because IT'S ON.
That's right. Consider the gauntlet thrown.
(Content warning: spoilers, swearing, & gifs.)
When I oh-so-innocently suggested a buddy read to GR pal Rachel, we had no clue what we'd agreed to finish. While the plethora of glowing reviews made me somewhat wary (the googly-eyed fangirling over Archer's tortured emoz & squee'ful appreciation of Miranda's paranormal empowerment raised several red flags), this was beyond the pale.
The blurb makes Firelight sound really exciting, with plenty of plot & characters you want to spend time reading about.
The blurb lies.
Our heroine, Miranda, is a speshul snowflake blessed with bullshit paranormal powers. Apparently she can manufacture, control, & extinguish flame with her mind -- why? how? WHO CARES! Miranda's paranormal angst is simply there, dropped into the plot without any explanation whatsoever, & we never see her learning to use it, or even learning to smother it. She just keeps it hidden until...she doesn't, at which point she burns an entire city block & kills three people without any consequence (Charles Dickens, this book is not). Meanwhile we're subjected to countless spews re: why she's a unlovable cow who doesn't deserve to be happy for any reason whatsoever, so when her deadbeat father arranges a marriage to some mysterious sack of emoz, she gives in with little argument.
Archer is beyond ridiculous. One mask isn't good enough for his soul-searing angst -- he's so fucking tortured that he wears a mask beneath his mask. SHOCK! HORROR! He's also possessed by an evul immortal...thing...wherein his body is slowly being converted into demon-stone without hair or normal skin. The explanation for his condition is nonsensical -- elixirs & Druids & secret clubs & ancient Roman soldiers are all involved. But whatever. All you need to know is that Archer never shuts up. Every little thing is an excuse for despairing over Miranda -- his soul aches, his cock throbs, his body craves, blah blah blah. Did I mention how Archer's life sucks? ARCHER'S LIFE SUCKS! And he'll discuss it over & over & over, so don't worry that you'll miss the good stuff.
...But even the gut-wrenching woobie backstory o' d00m takes a backseat to Meaningful, Healing SexyTimes. Forget the demon that's running around a poorly-realized Victorian London -- we'd much rather record every riveting detail as Miranda & Archer stand in the middle of the street & swipe tongues like a pair of perverts.
No, not kissing -- I mean licking each other's tongues. Literally.
Copious dry-humping, finger-prodding, & pillow-talk conversations ensue as our emotionally damaged couple makes every effort to ensure ABSOLUTELY NOTHING propels what little plot there is. Rarely, if ever, have I read two characters who so love to talk & yet manage to avoid every useful topic that might lead from point A to point B. But apparently the same soulful, wangsty bullshit on endless repeat makes these characters DEEP. It makes them ADULT. It makes them ROMANTIC.
Spare me.
Meanwhile, the villainous plot keeps reappearing at random. People die, Archer angsts, Miranda gets horny about fire...seriously, how did the villain fail at killing these morons? It can't be so hard when they repeatedly rush to save each other, then pause mid-scene to converse about emoz or swish tongues. FFS. I lost count of how many times they vowed to spare the other person some god-foresaken threat by staying away. (But of course they can't, because Twu Wuv.)
Don't even get me started on the doofy finale. Archer flops down like a 200-pound speedbump, infernos sweep through a satanic cavern, soul-chewing demons are killed, magical swords are burned to dust, & Miranda's fire purifies her man because...well, apparently she can do that. Presto! Archer's moonstone cock turns to a ruddy rod of awesomeness, & everyone goes home happy.
WTF just happened?
Speaking of Archer's cock...I can't. Miranda's constant prattling over his manly moonstone flesh was enough to send the book flying. And let's not forget that half his face peeks out from beneath the second mask -- a silky black skullcap, which gives her perfect access to a mouth that makes her tingle with wanton excitement, because who knows if she might burn them to a crisp from sheer horniness? If only Archer would let her love him. She understands his feelz. But he pushes her away, & she's too dangerous for him. She shouldn't want to understand his feelz. BUT HE'S SO BEAUTIFUL WITH SKIN LIKE MOONSTONE! Oh noes!
>_____<
Sometimes your peril-sensitive sunglasses just aren't enough protection. Sometimes you need angry gifs. Or a machine gun.
Thanks to Rachel for suffering alongside yours truly. :P
That's right. Consider the gauntlet thrown.
(Content warning: spoilers, swearing, & gifs.)
When I oh-so-innocently suggested a buddy read to GR pal Rachel, we had no clue what we'd agreed to finish. While the plethora of glowing reviews made me somewhat wary (the googly-eyed fangirling over Archer's tortured emoz & squee'ful appreciation of Miranda's paranormal empowerment raised several red flags), this was beyond the pale.
The blurb makes Firelight sound really exciting, with plenty of plot & characters you want to spend time reading about.
The blurb lies.
Our heroine, Miranda, is a speshul snowflake blessed with bullshit paranormal powers. Apparently she can manufacture, control, & extinguish flame with her mind -- why? how? WHO CARES! Miranda's paranormal angst is simply there, dropped into the plot without any explanation whatsoever, & we never see her learning to use it, or even learning to smother it. She just keeps it hidden until...she doesn't, at which point she burns an entire city block & kills three people without any consequence (Charles Dickens, this book is not). Meanwhile we're subjected to countless spews re: why she's a unlovable cow who doesn't deserve to be happy for any reason whatsoever, so when her deadbeat father arranges a marriage to some mysterious sack of emoz, she gives in with little argument.
Archer is beyond ridiculous. One mask isn't good enough for his soul-searing angst -- he's so fucking tortured that he wears a mask beneath his mask. SHOCK! HORROR! He's also possessed by an evul immortal...thing...wherein his body is slowly being converted into demon-stone without hair or normal skin. The explanation for his condition is nonsensical -- elixirs & Druids & secret clubs & ancient Roman soldiers are all involved. But whatever. All you need to know is that Archer never shuts up. Every little thing is an excuse for despairing over Miranda -- his soul aches, his cock throbs, his body craves, blah blah blah. Did I mention how Archer's life sucks? ARCHER'S LIFE SUCKS! And he'll discuss it over & over & over, so don't worry that you'll miss the good stuff.
...But even the gut-wrenching woobie backstory o' d00m takes a backseat to Meaningful, Healing SexyTimes. Forget the demon that's running around a poorly-realized Victorian London -- we'd much rather record every riveting detail as Miranda & Archer stand in the middle of the street & swipe tongues like a pair of perverts.
No, not kissing -- I mean licking each other's tongues. Literally.
Copious dry-humping, finger-prodding, & pillow-talk conversations ensue as our emotionally damaged couple makes every effort to ensure ABSOLUTELY NOTHING propels what little plot there is. Rarely, if ever, have I read two characters who so love to talk & yet manage to avoid every useful topic that might lead from point A to point B. But apparently the same soulful, wangsty bullshit on endless repeat makes these characters DEEP. It makes them ADULT. It makes them ROMANTIC.
Spare me.
Meanwhile, the villainous plot keeps reappearing at random. People die, Archer angsts, Miranda gets horny about fire...seriously, how did the villain fail at killing these morons? It can't be so hard when they repeatedly rush to save each other, then pause mid-scene to converse about emoz or swish tongues. FFS. I lost count of how many times they vowed to spare the other person some god-foresaken threat by staying away. (But of course they can't, because Twu Wuv.)
Don't even get me started on the doofy finale. Archer flops down like a 200-pound speedbump, infernos sweep through a satanic cavern, soul-chewing demons are killed, magical swords are burned to dust, & Miranda's fire purifies her man because...well, apparently she can do that. Presto! Archer's moonstone cock turns to a ruddy rod of awesomeness, & everyone goes home happy.
WTF just happened?
Speaking of Archer's cock...I can't. Miranda's constant prattling over his manly moonstone flesh was enough to send the book flying. And let's not forget that half his face peeks out from beneath the second mask -- a silky black skullcap, which gives her perfect access to a mouth that makes her tingle with wanton excitement, because who knows if she might burn them to a crisp from sheer horniness? If only Archer would let her love him. She understands his feelz. But he pushes her away, & she's too dangerous for him. She shouldn't want to understand his feelz. BUT HE'S SO BEAUTIFUL WITH SKIN LIKE MOONSTONE! Oh noes!
>_____<
Sometimes your peril-sensitive sunglasses just aren't enough protection. Sometimes you need angry gifs. Or a machine gun.
Thanks to Rachel for suffering alongside yours truly. :P
November 28, 2022
I both liked and didn’t like this story. I have a feeling I would have enjoyed it better as a book than audiobook, although the narrator (Moira Quirk) did a fine job. It felt like it took months to finish.
This was a bit ‘Beauty and The Beast� with a pnr slant. There’s a secret supernatural club with special coins,
There were too many secrets kept for much too long. This was one of those books had the main characters just had ONE CONVERSATION everything could have been solved so much quicker. Not to mention, all those lives saved. The entire story was told well, but left me with too many questions.
This was a bit ‘Beauty and The Beast� with a pnr slant. There’s a secret supernatural club with special coins,
There were too many secrets kept for much too long. This was one of those books had the main characters just had ONE CONVERSATION everything could have been solved so much quicker. Not to mention, all those lives saved. The entire story was told well, but left me with too many questions.
January 4, 2012
Who is the Beauty, and who is the Beast? Sometimes, it is not so easy to figure out.
The writing was simply outstanding.
Hard cobble bruised her soles, her boot heels clicking loudly with every step. Mud and muck splashed her shins, the smell of sewage clogging her nostrils. Pain pinched her side, the boning in her bodice restricting her breath, but she could not falter. Grunts and thuds of fighting sounded beyond the net corner. She rounded the corner, her heels skidding on the wet stones.
I loved the dialogue
“Not a flaw or distortion of line to mar that perfect beauty. I have seen your face before, miss. Michelangelo sculpted it from cold marble three hundred years ago, his divine hand creating what men would adore.� He took a step closer. “Tell me, Miss Ellis, do you not use that beauty as a shield, keeping the world at bay so that no one will know your true nature?� “Bastard,� she spat when she could find her voice.
I loved the characters
Miranda- A tough as nails female heroine that not only comes across as compassionate, strong, and relentless, but also has a sense of humor and the ability to use logic to solve problems. She uses her beauty in the beginning to get what she wants in order to survive. However, she harbors a secret power that makes her feel like a reject, different and hideous. Is she the beast?
Archer- I LOVED Archer. He’s one of my all-time favorite characters now. He has to wear a mask because, to the world around him, and to himself, he is a monster. However, his soul is beautiful; his heart is literally busting with integrity, compassion and loyalty, while breaking due to extreme loneliness. Is he the beauty?
The story
Archer meets Miranda years earlier when she was just 18 years old and is charmed by her. He finds her strength, her humor, her fierceness, irresistible and 3 years after their initial meeting, makes Miranda his wife. Miranda’s father tries to force Miranda into the marriage (her father will receive lots of money from Archer in exchange) but Archer offers Miranda the choice. Archer states he’ll give Miranda’s father the money regardless and doesn’t want to force her. Miranda, however, knows there is more to Archer than the man behind the mask, and also feels obligated. Miranda feels guilty for an act that she caused that destroyed her dad’s fortunes.
Miranda is quickly charmed by Archer but knows the man has secrets. She also wants to see the “beast� behind the mask. Archer knows there is a secret that Miranda is not sharing as well but is willing to let her keep her secrets.
As the story progresses, so does the relationship. Miranda and Archer learn to live with each other and fight for each other’s safety and honor in the society that shuns Archer.
The mystery and twists in this story are incredible. It was impossible to figure out and I was stumped literally right to the end of the pages.
Overall
I really am a chocolate addict. I’ll eat any type of milk chocolate. However, I absolutely love my mom’s extra fancy toasted chocolate coconut clusters that she makes twice a year. This book is my mom’s extra fancy toasted chocolate coconut clusters. It may have been the right book for me at the right time but I have a feeling, plenty of people are going to love it.
The writing was simply outstanding.
Hard cobble bruised her soles, her boot heels clicking loudly with every step. Mud and muck splashed her shins, the smell of sewage clogging her nostrils. Pain pinched her side, the boning in her bodice restricting her breath, but she could not falter. Grunts and thuds of fighting sounded beyond the net corner. She rounded the corner, her heels skidding on the wet stones.
I loved the dialogue
“Not a flaw or distortion of line to mar that perfect beauty. I have seen your face before, miss. Michelangelo sculpted it from cold marble three hundred years ago, his divine hand creating what men would adore.� He took a step closer. “Tell me, Miss Ellis, do you not use that beauty as a shield, keeping the world at bay so that no one will know your true nature?� “Bastard,� she spat when she could find her voice.
I loved the characters
Miranda- A tough as nails female heroine that not only comes across as compassionate, strong, and relentless, but also has a sense of humor and the ability to use logic to solve problems. She uses her beauty in the beginning to get what she wants in order to survive. However, she harbors a secret power that makes her feel like a reject, different and hideous. Is she the beast?
Archer- I LOVED Archer. He’s one of my all-time favorite characters now. He has to wear a mask because, to the world around him, and to himself, he is a monster. However, his soul is beautiful; his heart is literally busting with integrity, compassion and loyalty, while breaking due to extreme loneliness. Is he the beauty?
The story
Archer meets Miranda years earlier when she was just 18 years old and is charmed by her. He finds her strength, her humor, her fierceness, irresistible and 3 years after their initial meeting, makes Miranda his wife. Miranda’s father tries to force Miranda into the marriage (her father will receive lots of money from Archer in exchange) but Archer offers Miranda the choice. Archer states he’ll give Miranda’s father the money regardless and doesn’t want to force her. Miranda, however, knows there is more to Archer than the man behind the mask, and also feels obligated. Miranda feels guilty for an act that she caused that destroyed her dad’s fortunes.
Miranda is quickly charmed by Archer but knows the man has secrets. She also wants to see the “beast� behind the mask. Archer knows there is a secret that Miranda is not sharing as well but is willing to let her keep her secrets.
As the story progresses, so does the relationship. Miranda and Archer learn to live with each other and fight for each other’s safety and honor in the society that shuns Archer.
The mystery and twists in this story are incredible. It was impossible to figure out and I was stumped literally right to the end of the pages.
Overall
I really am a chocolate addict. I’ll eat any type of milk chocolate. However, I absolutely love my mom’s extra fancy toasted chocolate coconut clusters that she makes twice a year. This book is my mom’s extra fancy toasted chocolate coconut clusters. It may have been the right book for me at the right time but I have a feeling, plenty of people are going to love it.
June 24, 2021
Reread downgrade from 4 to 3 stars.
Buddy read with Sam, Bubu and Joanna from Romance Book Buddy reading.
Almost 4,5 stars.
This was absolutely great. I read Ember, the novella before this one and was really glad about it, because otherwise the beginning wouldn‘t have been quite as enjoyable as I found it to be. Also some of the character behaviors are way more understandable with Ember, so before you dive into this one, I highly recommend to read the Prequel novella first.
The book starts with the wedding day of these two and both are rather tense for various reasons. Miranda because she was unknowingly thrown into it and Archer because he wears a mask and is very self conscious about his appearance. From there on starts the delectable journey of those two, how they learn to get to know, love and trust each other.
The first half of the book was absolute heaven for me. The chemistry of these two is so fucking great, I was enjoying every second those two spent together - and those they spent apart, because KC is such a talented writer, that paints beautiful pictures for her readers.
Their characterization really hit it of with me, they are both strong, yet vulnerable, complex and likable. Especially Miranda is one kickass woman, she is absolutely fearless at times because of her abilities and faces every danger head on, with which she drives Archer nuts of course.
Archer was so my kind of Hero - because of his mask and his rather tragic past he has some problems with himself and doubts and is vulnerable. Yet he was an alpha, or else he wouldn‘t be able to handle Miranda.
And while the first half of the book was pure joy for me, in the second things started to drag. We know all about Miranda and her fire abilities, but we know nothing about Archer, what hides behind his mask and what his real past is. The reader is kept in the dark way to long - it is a great trope for suspense but it was simply overused.
I can‘t give five start because of some of the issues. But I absolutely adored KC‘s brilliant writing, her complex characters and interesting plot, so I am definitely going to continue this amazing Paranormal Romance Historical series.
Buddy read with Sam, Bubu and Joanna from Romance Book Buddy reading.
Almost 4,5 stars.
This was absolutely great. I read Ember, the novella before this one and was really glad about it, because otherwise the beginning wouldn‘t have been quite as enjoyable as I found it to be. Also some of the character behaviors are way more understandable with Ember, so before you dive into this one, I highly recommend to read the Prequel novella first.
The book starts with the wedding day of these two and both are rather tense for various reasons. Miranda because she was unknowingly thrown into it and Archer because he wears a mask and is very self conscious about his appearance. From there on starts the delectable journey of those two, how they learn to get to know, love and trust each other.
The first half of the book was absolute heaven for me. The chemistry of these two is so fucking great, I was enjoying every second those two spent together - and those they spent apart, because KC is such a talented writer, that paints beautiful pictures for her readers.
Their characterization really hit it of with me, they are both strong, yet vulnerable, complex and likable. Especially Miranda is one kickass woman, she is absolutely fearless at times because of her abilities and faces every danger head on, with which she drives Archer nuts of course.
Archer was so my kind of Hero - because of his mask and his rather tragic past he has some problems with himself and doubts and is vulnerable. Yet he was an alpha, or else he wouldn‘t be able to handle Miranda.
And while the first half of the book was pure joy for me, in the second things started to drag. We know all about Miranda and her fire abilities, but we know nothing about Archer, what hides behind his mask and what his real past is. The reader is kept in the dark way to long - it is a great trope for suspense but it was simply overused.
I can‘t give five start because of some of the issues. But I absolutely adored KC‘s brilliant writing, her complex characters and interesting plot, so I am definitely going to continue this amazing Paranormal Romance Historical series.
February 5, 2012
Huge 5 stars!
Wow! This book is superbly written, with jaw dropping plots, that will have you turning the pages to get answers. It's evocative, romantic and the sexual tension is off the charts, guaranteed to leave you breathless and weak at the knees.
Here's a little teaser:
Archer's finger grazed hers. "I feel you. As if you were connected to me by an invisible string." He touched his chest. "I feel you here. In my heart."
She couldn't think past the mad pounding of her blood. She swallowed painfully. "I feel you too."
The hero Archer is one hot alpha, that's so "swoon" worthy he makes me want to growl! While Miranda our heroine, is smart and headstrong, with supernatural abilities that "kicks some serious butt!"
I absolutely LOVE this book, it's a keeper!
Wow! This book is superbly written, with jaw dropping plots, that will have you turning the pages to get answers. It's evocative, romantic and the sexual tension is off the charts, guaranteed to leave you breathless and weak at the knees.
Here's a little teaser:
Archer's finger grazed hers. "I feel you. As if you were connected to me by an invisible string." He touched his chest. "I feel you here. In my heart."
She couldn't think past the mad pounding of her blood. She swallowed painfully. "I feel you too."
The hero Archer is one hot alpha, that's so "swoon" worthy he makes me want to growl! While Miranda our heroine, is smart and headstrong, with supernatural abilities that "kicks some serious butt!"
I absolutely LOVE this book, it's a keeper!
January 16, 2012
Thanks so very much to my dearest friend, Anzu, for lending me her ARC. Because you're so sweet, and I'm so generous, you may have Barrons all to yourself next weekend.
Have you ever read a book and felt as if it was written solely for you, keeping everything you love and want when it comes to novels in mind? I hadn't either, not before Firelight.
Firstly, allow me to gush about the exceptionally well-written historical aspect of this book. The entire book is filled with precise details and the sort of warmth produced only by times gone by. Callihan's storytelling and narration make even the most insignificant of scenes stand out in memory, till you can practically taste the events. Outstanding skill.
Secondly, the romance is one of the sweetest, most natural I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Archer is the beast with an unidentifiable physical disease and Miranda is the beauty with an unheard of ability. Together, they make the most swoon-worthy, lovable couple ever! A lot of their dialogue is worthy of being printed and hung up in frames.
And there's sex too. Lots of it. The toe-curling, eyebrow-raising kind.
Oh, stop. You're making me blush. ///
Lastly, the plot and story are both utterly engaging and unique. Archer is an ex-member of the mysterious West Moon Club, whose members are being murdered grotesquely, one after the other. Stranger still, Archer seems to know exactly who the murderer is. He constantly wears a maskwhich is just the most sexiest thing and evades every personal question his lovely bride asks him.
And since our heroine is hardly the meek, yes-master type, she decides to take the highly-suspicious affair into her own hands. Where that would usually entail pointless, poorly thought-out plans when it comes to most heroines, resulting in me having a migraine, Miranda is actually a very capable and responsible woman, well-used to taking care of herself and matters pertaining to her. I almost never got irritated with her, a huge accomplishment on Callihan's behalf.
The reality of Archer's physical infliction is more shocking than anything my imagination had conjured (which is saying a lot, trust me), and the sci-fi element consequently added is also quite unexpected. A combination of all these factors results in one of the best novels and certainly the best HR I've read in ages.
4.5/5 stars
For more reviews, visit my .
Have you ever read a book and felt as if it was written solely for you, keeping everything you love and want when it comes to novels in mind? I hadn't either, not before Firelight.
Firstly, allow me to gush about the exceptionally well-written historical aspect of this book. The entire book is filled with precise details and the sort of warmth produced only by times gone by. Callihan's storytelling and narration make even the most insignificant of scenes stand out in memory, till you can practically taste the events. Outstanding skill.
Secondly, the romance is one of the sweetest, most natural I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Archer is the beast with an unidentifiable physical disease and Miranda is the beauty with an unheard of ability. Together, they make the most swoon-worthy, lovable couple ever! A lot of their dialogue is worthy of being printed and hung up in frames.
And there's sex too. Lots of it. The toe-curling, eyebrow-raising kind.
Oh, stop. You're making me blush. ///
Lastly, the plot and story are both utterly engaging and unique. Archer is an ex-member of the mysterious West Moon Club, whose members are being murdered grotesquely, one after the other. Stranger still, Archer seems to know exactly who the murderer is. He constantly wears a mask
And since our heroine is hardly the meek, yes-master type, she decides to take the highly-suspicious affair into her own hands. Where that would usually entail pointless, poorly thought-out plans when it comes to most heroines, resulting in me having a migraine, Miranda is actually a very capable and responsible woman, well-used to taking care of herself and matters pertaining to her. I almost never got irritated with her, a huge accomplishment on Callihan's behalf.
The reality of Archer's physical infliction is more shocking than anything my imagination had conjured (which is saying a lot, trust me), and the sci-fi element consequently added is also quite unexpected. A combination of all these factors results in one of the best novels and certainly the best HR I've read in ages.
4.5/5 stars
For more reviews, visit my .
September 14, 2016
Me ha encantado esa mezcla de historia de amor, temas sobrenaturales y misterio!!!
Me ha enganchado desde el primer momento, tanto por los personajes principales ( ya que ninguno de los dos son los tipicos y habituales de la novela romantica historica ) como por la historia en si...
Me ha gustado mucho sentir los sentimientos de los dos personajes ( el amor , los celos, la soledad) cada uno por sus circunstancias personales ... y el tema de tension sexual no resuelta ,ufffff, ha sido muy muy creible...
Si os gustan los temas paranormales / sobrenaturales, las historias de amor atipicas y los personajes fuertes, con caracter pero vulnerables... este es vuestro libro!!! Seguire a esta autora porque promete...
Me ha enganchado desde el primer momento, tanto por los personajes principales ( ya que ninguno de los dos son los tipicos y habituales de la novela romantica historica ) como por la historia en si...
Me ha gustado mucho sentir los sentimientos de los dos personajes ( el amor , los celos, la soledad) cada uno por sus circunstancias personales ... y el tema de tension sexual no resuelta ,ufffff, ha sido muy muy creible...
Si os gustan los temas paranormales / sobrenaturales, las historias de amor atipicas y los personajes fuertes, con caracter pero vulnerables... este es vuestro libro!!! Seguire a esta autora porque promete...
March 18, 2023
This is probably my all-time favourite historical paranormal romance!
-swoon-worthy romance
-elemental magic
-paranormal creatures
-Beauty & the Beast retelling
-regency era
What's not to love??? ;)
-swoon-worthy romance
-elemental magic
-paranormal creatures
-Beauty & the Beast retelling
-regency era
What's not to love??? ;)
September 19, 2012
Spoiler Free
This book has compelling writing, although right off the bat you are bombarded with clichés. That may not bother some readers, but if it is a pet peeve of yours, then I promise that by the third chapter, the author really hits her stride, and the clichés are gone.
I have had a few of my friends telling me to read this one for weeks, since our tastes are similar, I downloaded from netgalley and was completely underwhelmed by the blurb. If it hadn’t been a buddy read, I probably wouldn’t have pushed it to the top of my TBR list. I’m really glad my girls
Miranda is a great heroine. She has a power, she’s a fire starter, and no one can explain why or how, so Miranda hides it. After her sisters have been married off, Miranda is still at home. Why is that? (My lips are zipped, but you'll find out)
Lord Archer is back in London, after being abroad for years, and his first order of business? To kill Miranda’s father. But he’s stopped by the sounds of a couple young lads swordfighting. Since no one uses swords anymore, Archer halts, and watches, both intrigued and amused by the talent demonstrated in the boys. He follows one home, only to witness the boy get into a scuffle with some tough street boys. Archer is then completely blindsided by the beauty of the “boy� (yep, it’s Miranda). He saves her, although she may not have needed saving, he hints at things to come, and he doesn’t kill her father.
Instead, he sets things in motion to marry Miranda.
I loved how they got to know each other. Archer wears a mask at all times, and his reputation is one that makes ladies swoon with fright as his coach drives past. But Archer has cultivated this reputation for a reason, and Miranda wants to ferret out all his secrets. At one point where she overhears something about her husband, the book has the potential to have a Big Misunderstanding, but Miranda is much too smart for that. I give the author credit for handling several sticky situations without taking the easy way out.
The gothic feel of this Historical Paranormal Romance leans to more of an Urban Fantasy vibe, and it really works. I can’t get over how intense this book was for me. There is this amazing mystery, the lure and pull of the mystery draws you in, and it does not let you go. I was kept guessing, only to be proved wrong over and over. I can’t wait for .
The only thing I think is that if someone spoils the mystery for you, it might detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. This is why I haven’t put anything pertaining to plot in this spoiler-free review.
***ARC courtesy of Forever Romance and netgalley.com
March 23, 2018
Update 03/18: b-r with Joanna, Sam and Isabella. Thanks again, ladies. I know I'm crazy about this series, but it's so, so much fun doing this with you.
Nothing to add to my previous comments concerning the book.
*
Update 22/02/17
I enjoyed Firelight a lot more the second time I read it than I did the first time around. The characters were familiar; I knew what would happen to the characters, including the secondary characters - at least the sisters and their prospective partners. Consequently, the world building felt even better.
But that is because I've already read the next 3 books in the series. The major problem I had when I wrote my first review still stands. Too much time is spent by Miranda and Archer hiding their secrets from each other when it is clear that it is those secrets that puts them in danger in the first place, and I felt the same frustration that I felt when I first read it which is why I'll stand by my initial rating.
Nonetheless - oh wow, Ms. Callihan. Seriously? No chance for a spin-off? Are you sure?
*
This was my first foray into the Paranormal Romance sub-genre. It was an enjoyable read, full of interesting twists and turns. The setting of the Victorian Era, especially at the beginning when e.g. buildings are described, reminded me of the TV show Penny Dreadful (sorry!), which I like, by the way.
I must admit that it took some time to adjust to the paranormal aspect. I wasn't bored by it - quite the contrary actually - but the romance part seemed to fall short. However, this could also be due to this being the first in the series where the world the author wants to create, needs to be established first. Having said that, the secondary characters, of which some have their own books, never felt overwhelming.
The main problem I had was with Miranda and Archer. Likable and well-drawn, but too much time was spent keeping their secrets hidden. I liked the chemistry between them, but I wished they had been open about their 'conditions' earlier. Get it over with and work together to overcome the main conflict, and along those lines get to know each other, fall in love, etc. The way it was done, however, felt like a drawn out cat-and-mouse game, and at times their dialogues were stuffy. It also meant, that both characters spent quite a bit apart from each other, which made it difficult to follow their relationship development. Another point is that I'm not too much into the Beauty and the Beast trope, but that's me.
I liked Callihan's storytelling, character development and prose. Though, it drifted into the purple-y prose at some stages. I will continue with the next book, though.
Nothing to add to my previous comments concerning the book.
*
Update 22/02/17
I enjoyed Firelight a lot more the second time I read it than I did the first time around. The characters were familiar; I knew what would happen to the characters, including the secondary characters - at least the sisters and their prospective partners. Consequently, the world building felt even better.
But that is because I've already read the next 3 books in the series. The major problem I had when I wrote my first review still stands. Too much time is spent by Miranda and Archer hiding their secrets from each other when it is clear that it is those secrets that puts them in danger in the first place, and I felt the same frustration that I felt when I first read it which is why I'll stand by my initial rating.
Nonetheless - oh wow, Ms. Callihan. Seriously? No chance for a spin-off? Are you sure?
*
This was my first foray into the Paranormal Romance sub-genre. It was an enjoyable read, full of interesting twists and turns. The setting of the Victorian Era, especially at the beginning when e.g. buildings are described, reminded me of the TV show Penny Dreadful (sorry!), which I like, by the way.
I must admit that it took some time to adjust to the paranormal aspect. I wasn't bored by it - quite the contrary actually - but the romance part seemed to fall short. However, this could also be due to this being the first in the series where the world the author wants to create, needs to be established first. Having said that, the secondary characters, of which some have their own books, never felt overwhelming.
The main problem I had was with Miranda and Archer. Likable and well-drawn, but too much time was spent keeping their secrets hidden. I liked the chemistry between them, but I wished they had been open about their 'conditions' earlier. Get it over with and work together to overcome the main conflict, and along those lines get to know each other, fall in love, etc. The way it was done, however, felt like a drawn out cat-and-mouse game, and at times their dialogues were stuffy. It also meant, that both characters spent quite a bit apart from each other, which made it difficult to follow their relationship development. Another point is that I'm not too much into the Beauty and the Beast trope, but that's me.
I liked Callihan's storytelling, character development and prose. Though, it drifted into the purple-y prose at some stages. I will continue with the next book, though.
August 27, 2016
3.5 stars I liked this one. It has an intriguing premise, it's set in Victorian London (which I love!), and it's overall very well-written. I would like to have seen a bit more of the supernatural elements as well as character development, however, and for some reason I was never really as drawn in by the romance or the sex as many of my fellow readers have been. Still, I *loved* the part when we finally find out the fascinating thing under Lord Archer's mask--if the story had concentrated more on that, which had so much potential, I would have been much more engaged. I'll be reading the next one to see what happens...fingers crossed for the paranormal stuff to take center stage!
September 30, 2014
[Edit: Oh, and I forgot to say that it's -- not really "based on" but I'll say influenced by the tale "East of the Sun & West of the Moon" in ways that become more explicit as the story progresses.]
When I started this book, which I picked up at random from the library without any advance knowledge, it seemed like it was going to be a fairly standard historical romance with a dollop of fantasy for color.
However, as it progressed Callihan skillfully dropped hints of a larger and more complex plot and doled out bits of information as the backstory and what was going on. She did a good job giving enough to keep the reader interested -- what fire? what's under the mask? why did Ben get exiled and who are these guys anyway? who is the murderer? -- without making the plot too complicated for the expectations of people who would be inclined to pick up a Heaving Bosoms type cover.
I tend to feel frustrated when the plot could be easily resolved if characters were more honest, but in this case the secrets were sufficiently serious that it made sense. I liked that both parties of the romantic couple were equally guilty of this, just as they were equally strong and got to take turns saving one another from near death.
I also liked that
The writing was straightforward but competent, with dashes of humor.
Overall, a solid read that should appeal to those who aren't genre purists.
January 14, 2018
Very entertaining read. There were a few quibbles with the plot, but it was a fun, fast read. I dug the attraction between the leads, and the paranormal aspect was unusual and not overwhelming. Different from my usual fare, and I will be continuing with this series.
January 29, 2012
Wow. Captivating. Compelling. I could not put this book down.
Firelight by Kristen Callihan was a pleasant surprise. I’m not usually a historical romance reader, but I was enthralled by the rich detail and the beautiful writing style. Firelight combines historical romance with a touch of the paranormal and adds in just the right amount of mythological lore.
In a way, Firelight reminded me of The Phantom of the Opera and Beauty and the Beast. This is not a retelling of those tales � instead the author creates her own original story and weaves in some intriguing paranormal elements.
Set in London in the 1880’s, Firelight is the story of two special characters. Lord Benjamin Archer is a “tortured� character in that he is an outcast, forced to wear a mask to cover his disfigurement. Miranda also has her own issues � she has the ability to start fires. Miranda is not a damsel in distress. She is quite capable of self-defense with a sword and her bravery and passion seem uncharacteristic for women of her time.
Watching Archer and Miranda’s relationship progress was satisfying. There was a slow buildup to their passion and I loved how they learned to trust each other. Their scenes together smoldered. Greenhouses and alleyways, oh my!
It’s hard to believe that Firelight is Kristen Callihan’s first published novel. Put this author on your to-read list! I can’t wait to read her next book, Moonglow coming out in August 2012.
Thank you Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on .
Firelight by Kristen Callihan was a pleasant surprise. I’m not usually a historical romance reader, but I was enthralled by the rich detail and the beautiful writing style. Firelight combines historical romance with a touch of the paranormal and adds in just the right amount of mythological lore.
In a way, Firelight reminded me of The Phantom of the Opera and Beauty and the Beast. This is not a retelling of those tales � instead the author creates her own original story and weaves in some intriguing paranormal elements.
Set in London in the 1880’s, Firelight is the story of two special characters. Lord Benjamin Archer is a “tortured� character in that he is an outcast, forced to wear a mask to cover his disfigurement. Miranda also has her own issues � she has the ability to start fires. Miranda is not a damsel in distress. She is quite capable of self-defense with a sword and her bravery and passion seem uncharacteristic for women of her time.
Watching Archer and Miranda’s relationship progress was satisfying. There was a slow buildup to their passion and I loved how they learned to trust each other. Their scenes together smoldered. Greenhouses and alleyways, oh my!
It’s hard to believe that Firelight is Kristen Callihan’s first published novel. Put this author on your to-read list! I can’t wait to read her next book, Moonglow coming out in August 2012.
Thank you Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on .
October 29, 2015
Seeing as this is a rather well-loved novel (even among my GR friends), I'm pretty sure that a lot of people won't agree with me, but I'll write this review in my usual brutally honest fashion nonetheless. So if you're a super fan of Firelight and can't tolerate criticism of your favourite book, by all means skip this.
If, however, you're open to a different perspective of the novel, which may even be food for thought later, I welcome you to read on.
Before anything else, I'd like to clarify my criteria for assessing a book. Of course they may change depending on the genre, but normally, I give importance to three factors: mastery of writing technicalities (style, tone, grammatical form), characterisation (development, overall likeableness), and the plot execution (structuring, development, and planning).
And this is why Firelight is just "okay" for me. It barely passed my three criteria.
First, the writing feels awkward. And this is mainly because of the choppy sentences, which are a pet peeve of mine. For example:
And in the next paragraph:
And, oh, in the paragraph after:
The deal with choppy sentences is that they don't really make for a smooth narration when overdone, and they're more suitable--or pardonable, in my case--for modern romances than historical. They make the whole story seem anachronistic, and I don't know about you, but I have difficulty getting into a historical novel if the characters act or speak in a modern way. (Digression: This is actually my beef with Ms. Tessa Dare's works; anachronism seems to be a common feature of her books.)
Another thing about the writing is the repetitive sentence form. Her sentences seem to follow the same damn pattern that it gets to my nerves. For example, in the Prologue alone, we have the following:
"... mirth bubbled up within..."
"Admiration filled him."
"Heated energy flared..."
"Tenderness warred..."
"Amusement danced in her voice"
Mind you, these are just some of them in the Prologue. I was too annoyed to copy all of them. SERIOUSLY. Am I the only one bothered by this? Look, I've read so many historical romances but this is actually the first time I've had this problem with a writer. From an experienced one, no less! You'd think that this would be a fledgling writer problem. It's all very distracting, really, how the sentences are significantly similar to each other. It makes me think about the bad literature submissions I did when I was a kid.
Moreover, the abrupt shift to a modern tone and vice versa (plus the inconsistent use of contractions) confused the bejesus out of me. In one instant, the narrative would be flowery and verbose; the writer would also use "would not," "could not" and the like. In another, there would be modern slang and expressions, and "didn't" "don't" and other contractions. It was as if the writer couldn't make up her mind which tone she'd use. Normally, I'd ignore this, but all the technical mistakes in the writing just snowballed into this big monster that made the issues hard to ignore.
Second, the characters are not very likeable. Again, before you throw tomatoes at me, let me just reiterate that this is according to my preferences, which, may be different from yours. But personally, Miri and Archer didn't seem like the kind of leads that I can relate with. For one thing, they were too fucking mercurial to be natural. They change moods so damn quickly that I can't imagine them to be real people. For instance, in the Prologue, Archer's grim and all "Oh I'mma kill dis sonofabitch Hector Ellis" and prowls his way to Hector Ellis' house, all intent and determined. And then he gets distracted by two boys. And then he gets amused by them, and even smiles. And then decides to follow one of the boys. And then finds out that the boy is actually a hot girl. And then gets horny like a rutting bull. And then decides not to kill Hector Ellis because he deduced that the hot girl was the bastard's daughter.
Er, how was that logical???????????? HOW WAS THAT A LOGICAL COURSE OF EVENTS???????
Even at the Prologue alone, I was like, "What the fuck just happened?" Seriously. Look, that's not what a normal person would do. If you were going to kill someone, you'd be so intent at the impending attempt at murder that you won't give a fuck at the two boys playing in the corner. You won't let that distract you; you'd be too caught up with your own dilemma and guilt and rage that you won't have attention to spare for others. Also, if you hate a guy so much that you wanted to kill him, it would be logical to assume that you won't be swayed from your decision by a hot girl. Well, unless if you're a shallow son of a bitch. Either way, that doesn't paint Archer in a very good light. And Miri's not any better either. She's too easy to anger. Dear God the temper of that woman.
I guess that's why I never connected with the characters. They don't seem real to me. Plus, the fact that the writing irked me. Yes, the characters' actions were somewhat justifiable, but that does not make them anymore likeable. I also think that the writer focused too much on the leads to the detriment of others. The secondary characters barely had screen time, and were not fleshed out well enough to pique my curiosity. This is important since the next books center on Miri's sisters. Elizabeth Hoyt has mastered this art. She uses it so well that the whole Maiden Lane series is connected intricately. You cannot appreciate one Maiden Lane book in isolation, because the character development starts way, way before that.
Third, the plot execution was far from brilliant. One reason for this was that the romance was not very convincing. Archer just went all "insta-love" for her in the Prologue, and Miri fell for him far too abruptly later on. And it seemed that their "romance" was really just based on sexual attraction, and not on love. There was no "getting to know you at a deeper level" phase. There was just... sexual tension.
Which brings me to my second reason: the sexual tension was too prolonged. Ugh. They should have done the deed earlier, really. The sudden interruptions in an obvious attempt to suspend the tension was annoying as fuck.
Overall, the book was... okay. It lacked depth, brilliant writing and overall cohesion, but it makes for a satisfactory read. It's just sad because it could have been better; it had so much potential.
If, however, you're open to a different perspective of the novel, which may even be food for thought later, I welcome you to read on.
Before anything else, I'd like to clarify my criteria for assessing a book. Of course they may change depending on the genre, but normally, I give importance to three factors: mastery of writing technicalities (style, tone, grammatical form), characterisation (development, overall likeableness), and the plot execution (structuring, development, and planning).
And this is why Firelight is just "okay" for me. It barely passed my three criteria.
First, the writing feels awkward. And this is mainly because of the choppy sentences, which are a pet peeve of mine. For example:
He burst through the door at the top of the stair and slammed it behind him, setting the panes of glass above his head shuddering. Solitude. Already he felt his disquiet ebb. His green house. A little glass jewel hidden away on the roof of the house.
And in the next paragraph:
The mask first. He tore it from his head, then the inner one, and allowed himself the first fresh breath he’d had in hours.
And, oh, in the paragraph after:
God it was cold. Good. He needed as much. Being trapped in the dammed coach with her had been torture enough.
The deal with choppy sentences is that they don't really make for a smooth narration when overdone, and they're more suitable--or pardonable, in my case--for modern romances than historical. They make the whole story seem anachronistic, and I don't know about you, but I have difficulty getting into a historical novel if the characters act or speak in a modern way. (Digression: This is actually my beef with Ms. Tessa Dare's works; anachronism seems to be a common feature of her books.)
Another thing about the writing is the repetitive sentence form. Her sentences seem to follow the same damn pattern that it gets to my nerves. For example, in the Prologue alone, we have the following:
"... mirth bubbled up within..."
"Admiration filled him."
"Heated energy flared..."
"Tenderness warred..."
"Amusement danced in her voice"
Mind you, these are just some of them in the Prologue. I was too annoyed to copy all of them. SERIOUSLY. Am I the only one bothered by this? Look, I've read so many historical romances but this is actually the first time I've had this problem with a writer. From an experienced one, no less! You'd think that this would be a fledgling writer problem. It's all very distracting, really, how the sentences are significantly similar to each other. It makes me think about the bad literature submissions I did when I was a kid.
Moreover, the abrupt shift to a modern tone and vice versa (plus the inconsistent use of contractions) confused the bejesus out of me. In one instant, the narrative would be flowery and verbose; the writer would also use "would not," "could not" and the like. In another, there would be modern slang and expressions, and "didn't" "don't" and other contractions. It was as if the writer couldn't make up her mind which tone she'd use. Normally, I'd ignore this, but all the technical mistakes in the writing just snowballed into this big monster that made the issues hard to ignore.
Second, the characters are not very likeable. Again, before you throw tomatoes at me, let me just reiterate that this is according to my preferences, which, may be different from yours. But personally, Miri and Archer didn't seem like the kind of leads that I can relate with. For one thing, they were too fucking mercurial to be natural. They change moods so damn quickly that I can't imagine them to be real people. For instance, in the Prologue, Archer's grim and all "Oh I'mma kill dis sonofabitch Hector Ellis" and prowls his way to Hector Ellis' house, all intent and determined. And then he gets distracted by two boys. And then he gets amused by them, and even smiles. And then decides to follow one of the boys. And then finds out that the boy is actually a hot girl. And then gets horny like a rutting bull. And then decides not to kill Hector Ellis because he deduced that the hot girl was the bastard's daughter.
Er, how was that logical???????????? HOW WAS THAT A LOGICAL COURSE OF EVENTS???????
Even at the Prologue alone, I was like, "What the fuck just happened?" Seriously. Look, that's not what a normal person would do. If you were going to kill someone, you'd be so intent at the impending attempt at murder that you won't give a fuck at the two boys playing in the corner. You won't let that distract you; you'd be too caught up with your own dilemma and guilt and rage that you won't have attention to spare for others. Also, if you hate a guy so much that you wanted to kill him, it would be logical to assume that you won't be swayed from your decision by a hot girl. Well, unless if you're a shallow son of a bitch. Either way, that doesn't paint Archer in a very good light. And Miri's not any better either. She's too easy to anger. Dear God the temper of that woman.
I guess that's why I never connected with the characters. They don't seem real to me. Plus, the fact that the writing irked me. Yes, the characters' actions were somewhat justifiable, but that does not make them anymore likeable. I also think that the writer focused too much on the leads to the detriment of others. The secondary characters barely had screen time, and were not fleshed out well enough to pique my curiosity. This is important since the next books center on Miri's sisters. Elizabeth Hoyt has mastered this art. She uses it so well that the whole Maiden Lane series is connected intricately. You cannot appreciate one Maiden Lane book in isolation, because the character development starts way, way before that.
Third, the plot execution was far from brilliant. One reason for this was that the romance was not very convincing. Archer just went all "insta-love" for her in the Prologue, and Miri fell for him far too abruptly later on. And it seemed that their "romance" was really just based on sexual attraction, and not on love. There was no "getting to know you at a deeper level" phase. There was just... sexual tension.
Which brings me to my second reason: the sexual tension was too prolonged. Ugh. They should have done the deed earlier, really. The sudden interruptions in an obvious attempt to suspend the tension was annoying as fuck.
Overall, the book was... okay. It lacked depth, brilliant writing and overall cohesion, but it makes for a satisfactory read. It's just sad because it could have been better; it had so much potential.
October 31, 2021
24 February 2020:
6 June 2014: $1.99 on Kindle
**Update** 11/1/2012: Just $1.99 on Kindle! Such a great deal for this fantastic book!!
I admit it, the first thing that drew me to this book was the gorgeous, fiery cover. Somehow this book got pushed quite far down my to-be-read pile, and I’m so incredibly sorry that it took me so long to pull it out.
Firelight is a beautifully written, passionate, mysterious book that kept me on the edge of my seat to find out how things turn out for Miri and Archer. The world is simply built, with nothing that makes it too confusing or extravagant, and it’s more striking because of it. We’re thrust into a dark, gothic Victorian London that has just a bit of pervading supernatural.
Miranda Ellis has a touch of paranormal around her. I realize now that we never really learn why or how she has this special gift � or curse � but it never bothered me to not know that while I was reading. I just accepted her, and loved her. She’s a great heroine, strong inside of herself, not afraid of going after what she wants or believes in. But she has a brain in her head, she thinks things through, doesn’t put herself needlessly at risk, and also has such an incredibly generous, accepting heart.
Archer was a mystery much of the book, at least what his affliction was. He wears a mask and covers his skin nearly all of the time, so I pictured him a lot like V from V for Vendetta. But his personality shone through. He’s definitely tortured, a lot of it brought on himself and perhaps more than needs be, but I couldn’t help but feel for him as he struggled with his absolute adoration of Miri, and how to show her that.
Most of the book I spent trying to figure out what was going on with Archer, and what his curse was. The not talking between Miri and Archer about their respective secrets, while understandable considering both of their histories, dragged on just a bit too long for me. I would have liked them to expose themselves fully a bit earlier, however I have to admit that when it did happen I was ecstatic at how it happened, and the resulting scene that was so full of love and acceptance I was teary eyed.
Firelight had such evocative, beautiful prose that it was incredibly hard to put down, and pulled at my mind every moment I was away from it. I can’t wait to read Moonglow which comes out July 31, 2012.
If you’re looking for something different from nearly everything else out there, or just looking for a great read, I highly recommend picking up Firelight by Kristen Callihan!
6 June 2014: $1.99 on Kindle
**Update** 11/1/2012: Just $1.99 on Kindle! Such a great deal for this fantastic book!!
I admit it, the first thing that drew me to this book was the gorgeous, fiery cover. Somehow this book got pushed quite far down my to-be-read pile, and I’m so incredibly sorry that it took me so long to pull it out.
Firelight is a beautifully written, passionate, mysterious book that kept me on the edge of my seat to find out how things turn out for Miri and Archer. The world is simply built, with nothing that makes it too confusing or extravagant, and it’s more striking because of it. We’re thrust into a dark, gothic Victorian London that has just a bit of pervading supernatural.
Miranda Ellis has a touch of paranormal around her. I realize now that we never really learn why or how she has this special gift � or curse � but it never bothered me to not know that while I was reading. I just accepted her, and loved her. She’s a great heroine, strong inside of herself, not afraid of going after what she wants or believes in. But she has a brain in her head, she thinks things through, doesn’t put herself needlessly at risk, and also has such an incredibly generous, accepting heart.
Archer was a mystery much of the book, at least what his affliction was. He wears a mask and covers his skin nearly all of the time, so I pictured him a lot like V from V for Vendetta. But his personality shone through. He’s definitely tortured, a lot of it brought on himself and perhaps more than needs be, but I couldn’t help but feel for him as he struggled with his absolute adoration of Miri, and how to show her that.
Most of the book I spent trying to figure out what was going on with Archer, and what his curse was. The not talking between Miri and Archer about their respective secrets, while understandable considering both of their histories, dragged on just a bit too long for me. I would have liked them to expose themselves fully a bit earlier, however I have to admit that when it did happen I was ecstatic at how it happened, and the resulting scene that was so full of love and acceptance I was teary eyed.
Firelight had such evocative, beautiful prose that it was incredibly hard to put down, and pulled at my mind every moment I was away from it. I can’t wait to read Moonglow which comes out July 31, 2012.
If you’re looking for something different from nearly everything else out there, or just looking for a great read, I highly recommend picking up Firelight by Kristen Callihan!
July 10, 2019
DNF at around 80%. I just can't get into this.
Things I sort of liked:
- I liked that the heroine for once didn't believe every bad thing said about the hero without proof. That was really nice.
Things I intensely disliked:
- The worldbuilding: I love fantasy, so maybe I went into this with the wrong expectations, but I do not get how this world works. At all. I've been told it develops over the books, but I don't care enough to test this theory. At 80% I still have too many questions to care.
- The usual tropes, namely:
1) tortured "I am never going to be good enough for her, but I can't help wanting her" hero. I am tired of those. It's just a personal preference, to each their own, I just don't care for this trope if it goes on for too long. Especially when he is paired with an "I am so broken and therefore no one can ever love me once they know what I am" heroine. One person wallowing is bad enough for me, but when both of them never stop talking about how they can't tell the other one the truth, but oh how they want to, but then they are so broken, the other one would run if they knew, and oh but the lust is SO strong!? I am not amused.
2) Evil other woman from the hero's past spreading lies and trying to come between the couple. It's just not my favorite way to create tension.
3) The whole "big bad dark secret" that neither could tell the other until the last 20% of the book. I honestly found his secret a bit of a let-down after all that time, and once I got to the , I have to say, I couldn't help laughing.
4) Also, the insta-lust. And the bizarre tongue-licking thing. Which is not a trope, but still weirded me out. And the fingering in a dark alley that just couldn't wait while our hero was slowly bleeding out. Not my kind of romance.
Given how many people swear this is the best series they have ever read, I am clearly in the minority and just being my usual grumpy self. I just didn't care for this book, neither for the romance part, nor for the paranormal part.
Things I sort of liked:
- I liked that the heroine for once didn't believe every bad thing said about the hero without proof. That was really nice.
Things I intensely disliked:
- The worldbuilding: I love fantasy, so maybe I went into this with the wrong expectations, but I do not get how this world works. At all. I've been told it develops over the books, but I don't care enough to test this theory. At 80% I still have too many questions to care.
- The usual tropes, namely:
1) tortured "I am never going to be good enough for her, but I can't help wanting her" hero. I am tired of those. It's just a personal preference, to each their own, I just don't care for this trope if it goes on for too long. Especially when he is paired with an "I am so broken and therefore no one can ever love me once they know what I am" heroine. One person wallowing is bad enough for me, but when both of them never stop talking about how they can't tell the other one the truth, but oh how they want to, but then they are so broken, the other one would run if they knew, and oh but the lust is SO strong!? I am not amused.
2) Evil other woman from the hero's past spreading lies and trying to come between the couple. It's just not my favorite way to create tension.
3) The whole "big bad dark secret" that neither could tell the other until the last 20% of the book. I honestly found his secret a bit of a let-down after all that time, and once I got to the , I have to say, I couldn't help laughing.
4) Also, the insta-lust. And the bizarre tongue-licking thing. Which is not a trope, but still weirded me out. And the fingering in a dark alley that just couldn't wait while our hero was slowly bleeding out. Not my kind of romance.
Given how many people swear this is the best series they have ever read, I am clearly in the minority and just being my usual grumpy self. I just didn't care for this book, neither for the romance part, nor for the paranormal part.
February 27, 2012
First off, ignore the blurb. This heroine isn't forced to do anything. She's one of the most empowered heroines I've ever read. Second, this is a kick-ass retelling of Beauty and the Beast without the imbalance of power issues. So if that's your thing, then just get it. No need to read on.
This book has splendid writing, a riveting story, beautifully drawn characters, a compelling premise, smoldering sexual tension, and an unforgettable ending. Really, what more do you need to know? Go buy it, read it, and I defy you not to fall in love it. This will go on one of my Top 10 reads for 2012, and it's deliciously fresh & original.
I'm slavering for the sequel.
This book has splendid writing, a riveting story, beautifully drawn characters, a compelling premise, smoldering sexual tension, and an unforgettable ending. Really, what more do you need to know? Go buy it, read it, and I defy you not to fall in love it. This will go on one of my Top 10 reads for 2012, and it's deliciously fresh & original.
I'm slavering for the sequel.
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