First and foremost, if goodreads allowed for quarter of half starts, this book would fall somewhere between the 4.25 and 4.5 range. That said, C. Robert Cargill is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. As soon as I completed 'Queen of Dark Things' I began re-reading 'Dreams and Shadows.' While I preferred the latter more, I was not disappointed with his sophomore effort - the continued story of Colby Stevens - protagonist/anti-hero/tortured soul. What strikes me most about Mr. Cargill's writing is his ability to masterfully weave different mythologies into a coherent story structure. His blending of the Aboriginal lore with the the 72 Demons evoked by Solomon was seamless and artful. I look forward to his future writings and if you are a fan of fantasy fiction against a modern day backdrop, you will not be disappointed. This is one of those times when I wish that I myself was an author, so that I could be better with words. I don't know that I can do justice to this amazing novel with my review. Queen of the Dark Things is book 2 in the series, which usually means a disappointing "blah" experience after a promising start in book 1. However, this author manages to top his previous excellence with an even more addicting experience. This is one of those books that I literally COULD NOT PUT DOWN until I reached the end, and then I was almost in tears because it was over. Can't wait until the next one!The world of this novel is beautifully crafted. It is easy to identify with the characters, fantastical as they might be. Cargill somehow slips this fantastical world of fairies and genies right into the middle of Austin, Texas and makes it seem totally logical. He weaves folklore and mythology skillfully into the story, with plenty of new twists and turns to keep the reader entertained. There is violence, but it's not gratuitous. There is fantasy, but with a gritty sort of realism too. There is suspense, with plenty of plot twists, but somehow it all hangs together with all the loose ends neatly tied up. Cargill is truly a master of words, painting vivid pictures without becoming too wordy or difficult.I doubt this series will ever achieve the popularity it deserves. It's not going to appeal to the average teenager, and requires a thinking reader. However, the writing style is not difficult. The themes are universal. But the characters are complex and nothing is ever black-and-white. I hope this gem does not stay hidden. I don't think that anyone who gives this book a try will be disappointed.
What do You think about Queen Of The Dark Things (2014)?
*Recvd via Edelweiss/Harper Voyager 03/07/2014* Expected publication: May 13th 2014 by Voyager
—tcnewman
Wonderful and brilliant! I loved Dreams and Shadows and this series is awesome.
—Rebecca
The complete review will be posted at VampChix soon
—chanel
