I have mixed feelings about this urban fantasy. While I liked the overall story, I wasn't a big fan of the style in which it was told. And that was the key problem. The story was being told to the reader instead of being shown. This style made it hard to identify with the characters because it all seemed impersonal. This story is mainly told through Blue’s eyes as she investigates the death of a gifted teenager who had been held hostage and tortured. With Blue’s Gift of empathy she is a valuable asset to Supernatural Investigation Bureau, but she puts herself at risk in an effort to prove her worth to her team. As Blue’s past is unveiled, to both herself and us, it becomes clear that there is more going on than the story at hand.It is important to note under the chapter headings the POV (point of view) changes are announced along with the date. Some days were several chapters long. I found it hard to follow the dates or day changes. Occasionally the POV changed to Jack’s point-of-view, which helped clarify why he responded to Blue the way he did at times. Jack is not only Blue’s boss, he is her guardian (which is unbeknownst to Blue) and he is unsure how much of the prophecy surrounding the Grimoire he should share with Blue. He also feels like he doesn't deserve Blue’s affections, despite his overwhelming desire for her, because his soul is tainted with Lilith’s dark mark.I really liked Ms. Abernathy’s inclusion of Varg, the mysterious wolf that appears when Blue is attacked in the alley. I am a bit partial to wolves and am anxious to learn more of his story. He turned out to be an excellent guardian for Blue. However, I was puzzled when Varg ran to greet the chief of police in the park. It was completely out of character for the wolf and this action was used to force the plot along a certain path of the author’s choosing and didn't ring true. I had this reaction with a couple other spots in the story concerning Blue’s actions as well.Bottom line, I think this series has promise. I would like to see the author improve the flow of the story and remain true to her characters personalities by allowing them to lead the story. I felt like the supporting characters were strong and well developed. Maud was a hoot, everyone needs a friend like her, and Alexis was an interesting friend to have around. She was a good emotional support system for Blue to have. I think both friends will play vital roles in the future of this series. FYI: The Light Who Shines is the first book in the Bluebell Kildare Series.It contains explicit sex, foul adult language, and graphic violence.Format/Typo Issues: I found no significant issues with proofing or formatting.**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** December 20, 2014 Oh brother. Oh brother. Oh brother. I was sure this book was going to be a winner. It had such raving reviews. Everyone seemed to LOVE it. Always on the look out for another good paranormal series to dive into, I was thrilled to see such glowing reports. I still gave it three stars because it wasn't horrible and I've read much worse. The world building is solid, but the characters fall flat. Jack is "ooo-la-la so, so, so sexy" and we are told so straight from the beginning. We're not allowed to get to know him and form our own opinions. Blue is so beautiful, and so kind, and so honorable, and so sweet, and so open-minded, and so determined....and I think you get the point. That totals up to one big huge BORING. There was nothing that great about Blue. Frankly, I found her rather annoying. Always going on about what a great investigator and person she is. And she VERY STUPIDLY ran into one dangerous situation after another. The whole story about her parents was weird. In the middle of an investigation she suddenly decides to find out about her past. Why didn't she do that earlier? Why didn't they tell her earlier? It was so annoying and didn't make any sense.It was also very dogmatic which is never something I approve of. Way more of a TELLING, than a SHOWING. The best part of the story was Varg, Blue's wolf companion and protector. I approved of him. I won't be reading any more. The more I think about it the dumber it gets. In fact, I'm moving it down to 2 stars. I'm glad a lot of other readers are enjoying it, but I am not one of them.
What do You think about The Light Who Shines (2014)?
I like it. "The light" kept me guessing. I hope to read more about Blue!
—Angela
