Book 1), A Kiss of Shadows (Meredith Gentry

-Update-

While this story could be captivating to some, to others it's a bore. It depends on what you like really. Halfway through the book and there has already been at least two `erotic' scenes. All of which you could easily thumb over and truly not miss much but words that make you envision moans. This is a strange world you are thrown into but pleasant at times. Though the men are almost -too- perfect for my liking.

Sentences are a touch repetitive. There are always comments about the beauty of the men and the terror of the Queen. I got the idea after the second time and easily skimmed over the rest. The story -could- be invigorating. It -could- captivate you. It -could- do a whole lot. The point is: for some it does nothing.

I suggest you go to your local book store, settle down and read the first few pages. If you happen to like it then get it. If you get it online then get it used and cheap. While it's an alright series, its not worth $20 a pop.

Otherwise it can be enjoyed. Just depends on who you are and if you can stand the repetition of sex and pretty men.

I absolutely love this series. Hamilton's imagination is fresh as it is inventive. I have bought the whole series and am eagerly waiting for the next book in June. Hamilton's other series is just as creative as this one. She is definitely one of my most favorite authors. I would recommend her books to anyone age appropriate.

Loved this book for the world that the characters live in, how well the fey are researched, and the story itself. The characters are great in description and personality, and the story is excellent. This is a series I was sucked into easily, from the very first chapter until I finished the book, because I could NOT put this book down. Compared to the current Anita Blake series books being written by Laurell K Hamilton (My first series to have ever obsessively read) the mystery and personal dynamics are comparable, the main character (Strong independent female role, working as an investigator, with magic abilities, and very short with white skin and dark hair) is similar in some ways, but less inhibited as a person, the sex is interesting but uncomplicated, and the court dynamics are just fun and exciting.

From the beginning, I could not identify with, or enjoy any of the characters in the novel. I found them flat and lifeless. Everyone is flawed, but no one seems redeemable. I always need someone to cheer for, and the heroine of the book, while potentially interesting, never becomes human enough.

I have read all of the Anita Blakes series except for Affliction going to get that real soon and really for the first time I couldnt get enough of it liked finally reading a story where the woman isnt a weak pathetic heroine:) So thought I would try the other series I do like her style so this one was good will be reading all these hopefully before she finishes her latest book of this series :)

I love this author and would reccomend her to anyone who loves to read.
Her style of writing makes you want to keep reading. I enjoy the Merideth Gentry series
more than the Anita Blake series. Anyone who loves paranormal books this is the series for you.

All I can say is wow!!!! Not having the slightest idea as to what was going to happen when I started this book, all I can say is this, I can't start the next one soon enough!!!!!!! Thank you Laurell!!