House of the Rising Sun by Kristen Painter

I enjoyed this novel’s investigative-style plot line, and how the author used the various characters’ abilities to her advantage to solve the Fairy Queen’s kidnapping case. In the earlier chapters I feared that a love triangle was on the brink of developing between Augustine, Nekai & Harlow, but Painter quickly put the kibosh on that which was a relief. In addition, the real reason why Branzino (the villain) wants Olivia’s house so bad was explained, and both the witch & voodoo aspects of this story were in evidence as well. The author also tackled well-known fae lore such as mirror travel, and the alternate plane which made for some very robust world-building. I got a kick out of Harlow and Cy’s Realm of Zauron exchanges, the too-cool-for-school contact lens with built-in facial recognition, and that the beautiful dress that’s featured on the cover was described in vivid detail. This universe is chock-full of magic and techie excellence the gaming references, neato gadgets, and spelled clothing fed the nerd.

Harlow did however make one rash decision towards the end which resulted in a super predictable ending, but other than that, I was one happy camper. I asked for more fae mythology & less brattiness, and that’s precisely what the author delivered. In fact, I re-read my review of HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN before writing this one, and observed that all of the elements that I’d previously gripped over were amended in CITY OF ETERNAL NIGHT which is exactly what you want to see in a sequel. 'Kristen Painter's BLOOD RIGHTS is dark and rich with layer after delicious layer.The second installment in Kristen Painter’s CRESCENT CITY series was more plot than character driven which was a welcomed tweak because my prevailing criticism about book 1 was the heroine.

Prepare to lose some sleep!' - Larissa Ione If you love dangerous males, kick-ass females, and unexpected twists, this is the series for you! Kristen Painter's engaging voice, smart writing, and bold, explosive plot blew me away. Best new urban fantasy out there!' - Kresley Cole 'With the Crescent City series, painter proves herself a master of urban fantasy, creating a darkly gorgeous new world, richly drawn characters, and non-stop action.' - Kristen Callihan Do yourself a favor and read this one.' - Patricia Briggs 'Passion and murder, vampires and courtesans - original and un-put-downable. 'Kristen Painter brings a sultry new voice to the vampire genre, one that beckons with quiet passion and intrigue.' - L A Banks

House of the Rising Sun by Kristen Painter