Moonglow (Darkest London)

As we know from the prequel Firelight (Darkest London), Ian is a Scottish lord and a Lycan, a shifter who fears letting his inner wolf out, and has never done so. Daisy is sister to Miranda of Firelight fame. Like Miranda, Daisy has special powers, which she will soon discover.

Plot in a nutshell: Together, Ian and Daisy try to find the mad wolf who is killing women who wear Daisy's personally blended perfume. Ian is determined to protect Daisy, whose floral scent is embedded in her skin. At the same time, Ian must confront his Lycan wolf pack, whose leadership he abdicated decades ago when his son died.

Relationship development: Both Ian and Daisy have been sorely mistreated by spouses who vowed to love them. They find each other, and it really is beautiful. I loved Ian and Daisy, and was not bothered one bit by Ian's amorous intentions in book 1. Sigh. Watching these two proud but lonely individuals develop a loving bond was just delightful. The author does such a nice job with relationship development, and while the sexual tension is always present, it is not a substitute for the development of trust, loyalty, honest intimacy, etc. Daisy is tough, earthy, and compassionate. Ian is rascally and devilish, but he feels deeply. I loved that Daisy held her own with the powerful Ian and learned to embrace her powers. I also loved seeing Ian's inner wolf get some loving compassion from Daisy, until Ian learned to trust that side of himself. However, I felt shortchanged at the end, and wanted more time with Ian in his wolf form. I wanted to see the wolf get his season in the sun, romping with Daisy.

Suspense: The plot kept me guessing. The characters' actions were consistent with their values and beliefs (with a few exceptions, like when Daisy did not stay by Poppy's side when her husband was near death, or when Poppy kept the family secret to herself, causing needless distress). High marks for tension. The scene at the Highgate cemetery was outstanding! I felt I was there, with a crazed wolf on the loose. Loved the scenes where Daisy used her special powers, especially the scene at the mansion with the horribly vicious attack on Ian. Lots of plots twists. One of them literally had my jaw drop. One or two resolutions were not welcome; they made me quite sad.

World building? Yes, some new stuff, specifically the SOS society, the elementals, and the GIMs. Not an overwhelming amount of new development. Easy to absorb into the schema.

Gore? Yes, heads rolling, limbs flying, blood gushing. Not my cup of tea, so I sped through these parts, but essential to the plot and not gratuitous.

Sex? Yes, but not until the time was right, after trust and emotional intimacy had been established. The sexual tension builds nicely throughout the book, but it felt passionate and emotional, not cold or mechanical. The scene in the carriage ride was totally steamy...perhaps too steamy for some. (but I had to chuckle for poor Ian!)

> > > Caution! Spoiler!!

I was tracking nicely through the whole book, but then...bummer! I did NOT like how it ended, how Daisy's problem was resolved. The final solution gave me the chills and partly ruined a 5-star read for me. "He held her as if she were a fragile thing, not the ___ ___ she had become." Try as I might, I can't envision a happy future for these two, given what Daisy had become. But to be fair, few fellow reviewers expressed a similar concern. Maybe I just have not read enough steam punk.

END OF SPOILER

Language and typos: Lots of cuss words and several dozen religious swear words, used as expletives, interjections, or whatever. Far more profanity than I've usually encountered (compare with Patty Briggs, Jayne Ann Krentz, C. S. Wilson, etc). There were also one or two typos in the book -- not a big deal.

In sum, a superior story! I liked it even more than Firelight, except for the final resolution of Daisy's dilemma and the language. It moved along more quickly, and felt more earthbound, less surreal. And I chuckled a few times. Even though it was gruesome, it did not feel so gothic.

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Kristen Callihan crafts another strong female heroine set in a world that is darkly imaginative and engrossing.

Opening Sentence: Lord above, was there a better sight than a woman flush with passion, her skin dewy and pink, her breasts bouncing from the force of his thrusts?

The Review:

Daisy Craigmore is supposed to be in mourning for her deceased husband but instead she has gone to a "party" to hook up with someone (any man will do). It has been so long for her and her reputation has already been ruined, thanks to her dead husband. Unfortunately before Daisy can have any fun, she is attacked by a strange creature. Luckily for Daisy, Lord Ian Ranulf is nearby and he hears the screams from the attack. When he arrives the scene terrifies him. He knows Daisy and her companion have been attacked by a werewolf. Ian is also a werewolf and he knows all too well the danger that can befall a man if he loses himself to the wolf. Ian decides to take Daisy to his home to question what she saw before she goes around telling the public of a crazy wild animal attacking people.

Ian and Daisy have many similarities that make them perfect for each other. Ian is also suffering some sexual frustrations of his own. His problems could possibly be blamed on a certain redhead who just happens to be Daisy's sister. Ian has his own tragic past that really shapes the person he shows to the world. He regrets his actions in Firelight and he tries to prove to Daisy he isn't that person her sister Miranda told her about. Daisy's past isn't quite so tragic but it forces her to be an independent woman. Ian and Daisy both do not want to be hurt by a relationship even as they fight the lure for the other.

The Darkest London world continues to expand and amaze. Kristen Callihan has changed up the lore of the werewolf and she imagines a whole new supernatural world that I can't wait to see expanded in later novels. Daisy and Ian's relationship plays out completely different from Miranda and Archer's relationship in Firelight, which is a good thing. Daisy learns of a family heirloom (curse) that she isn't too happy about but comes in handy when she needs it too and I really enjoyed how that scene played out.

Moonglow follows several characters beside Daisy and Ian in the third person as the story moves along, including the crazed werewolf and a cop trying to solve the case. It even sets up deliciously for the third book in the series Winterblaze which I absolutely cannot wait for. One thing I really like about the author's writing is how she prolongs the mystery and intrigue in the story which keeps me glued to the page.

Overall, Moonglow has a dark and haunting atmosphere that complements Firelight but it isn't quite the same read as the first book in the series. This is a mysterious and engrossing series that will just suck you right into this world. Kristen Callihan has introduced a few more evocative characters into this world that I already want to read about but I can't wait to read the last sister's story in Winterblaze.

FTC Advisory: Forever/Hachette Book Group provided me with a copy of Moonglow. No goody bags, sponsorships, "material connections," or bribes were exchanged for my review

Daisy Ellis Craigmore is finally a widow. No longer must she deal with her late husband's abuse. Knowing long before his death that he husband would not ensure her welfare once he was gone, Daisy has used her undignified talent for dissecting smells to create several successful perfumes. However, Daisy never sold the formula for her personal scent. The unique scent is exclusively Daisy's. While attending a gala one evening, she is one of the people attacked by a vicious beast. It is only by chance that Daisy survives.

Lord Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup, has spent several lifetimes hiding his Lycan nature from society. He is nearby when the screaming begins. The mad werewolf is gone by the time Ian gets to the scene of attack. He is shocked to find a survivor among the bloody carnage. To keep Daisy from revealing what had attacked her, Ian has Daisy taken to his home for care. (He used to be a doctor.) He soon learns that all the women that the beast has attacked had one thing in common; they each wore a perfume called "Daisy". Ian pledges to protect Daisy until the threat is neutralized. It is the duty of Clan Ranulf's to protect society from threat of their kind, yet the clan has done nothing. Ian is in self-chosen exile from the clan. His brother, Conall, currently sits upon the Lycan throne. Even so, the duty has fallen upon Ian to protect London from the insane werewolf. That means keeping Daisy close. There are joined in their quest to unmask the villain by Daisy's sister, Lady Miranda Archer, who can manipulate fire, and her husband, Lord Benjamin Archer, who is Lycan. Daisy seems to be the only one in the group without some sort of supernatural ability. It is also up to Daisy to keep the peace, because there are hard feelings between Ian, Benjamin, and Miranda. But the power in Daisy's family line usually only appears when the person is under extreme duress ... and Daisy is certainly under a lot of stress lately.

**** FOUR STARS! This may be the second title in the Darkest London Series, but you do not have to read the first book to fully enjoy this story. The first book is titled Firelight (Darkest London) and tells the story between Miranda and Lord Archer. The third title involves the eldest sister, Poppy, who plays a small role in this adventure. However, Poppy's husband is Inspector Winston Lane and he plays a huge part in this story. He is ignorant of the supernaturals around him and not part of Daisy's investigating group.

Author Kristen Callihan has given more information on the Lycan background and the reader learns more about the Lycan hierarchy. It is not a very pretty picture either. Backgrounds of all the major and secondary characters are well developed. The plot is solid and the writing style flows smoothly. This story owes me a night of sleep. ****

Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.

The "Darkest London" series continues with Daisy's story. Daisy is a widow who is flying free for the first time, and she hasn't even fully extended her wings when she witnesses a werewolf attack. Marquis Northrup, Ian Ranulf just happens to be strolling in the vicinity when he catches the scent of the unknown werewolf. When Ian realizes the werewolf is after Daisy, and his secrets are in danger of being revealed, he resolves to keep her safe. Both Daisy and Ian who initially dislike each other, find that they are drawn to each other as they spend more time together. But will the killer werewolf separate them, and what secrets are they keeping from each other?

The second book in the "Darkest London" series by Kristen Callihan, and her sophomore release, is a fantastic book. Kristen Callihan does a phenomenal job of taking what she started with Firelight and elevating it to new heights. She manages to seamlessly not only tell Daisy and Ian's story, but also build another world as well, without overloading the reader with information. The story flows freely and never hits a low point, but keeps

Daisy and Ian were wonderful people to read about and relate to. Daisy bears both mental and physical scars, as does Ian. Both hide the pains of the past under veneers of joie de vivre or ennui. It's a treat to watch them realize that there is more to them beyond what they see and know. Daisy is weary of Ian because she knows he wanted Miranda and doesn't want to be his consolation prize. Ian is fighting his true nature and leaving his duties as an alpha of his pack. Miranda and Benjamin appear in this book as supporting characters and it is good to see them as more than a fleeting mention.

Winterblaze, the third book in this series is due to be released at the end of February 2013, and having been given hints as to what the book will be about, I find that waiting for it to be released will be the hardest part. Kristen Callihan has found a way to make her second book as equally spectacular as her first book and so my expectations for the third book are high.

Daisy’s elderly husband has died leaving Daisy to figure out who she is now. Single Daisy was fun, sensual, and confident. Widowed Daisy wants to be that person again. But, standing in the way of Daisy finding herself is a werewolf that is on a killing spree with Daisy being one of the targets. Ian, Archer’s adversary in the first book, is one of the first on the scene of the murders. He’s the only one that can protect Daisy from the crazed werewolf. But, Daisy is less than thrilled to be babysat by the man who thwarted her sister’s marriage and is obsessed with her sister.

Some of the issues I had with Callihan’s previous novel were fixed in this story. Mainly, she fixed the pacing issues and firmly placed the series in the paranormal category. I had a hard time aligning the Daisy in this book with the one from the first book. But, maybe that’s the point? She’s not the same Daisy as before? The mystery was well done. Callihan did manage to surprise me, not by the murderer’s identity, but with the motivating force behind the werewolf. By far, the banter between Daisy and Ian is the strength of this novel.

Moonglow
Kristen Callihan
Forever, Jul 31 2012, $7.99
ISBN: 9781455508587

In 1883, widowed Daisy Ellis Craigmore feels euphoric to have escaped the stranglehold of a lousy six-year marriage to an abusive mate though she knows that is not nice thinking. However, she did her time in marriage with 366 days, ten hours, fifteen minutes faking mourning. She considers herself no longer a Craigmore in sham mourning. Now she plans to enjoy life.

However, her euphoria ends abruptly when she witnesses a homicide. Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup, pushes passed the crowd claiming to be a doctor though he had not practiced in almost two decades. He knows what happened here as he avoided his kind for seventy years but his kind has intruded on his self-imposed exile. When he smells a woman nearby, he moves the body to find Daisy underneath. Questioning her while keeping her safe, Ian knows he must eliminate the culprit before the law finds the rogue. However, his attraction to Daisy is an unwanted mistimed need that Ian cannot ignore.

This Darkest London Victorian historical fantasy (see Firelight) is a fabulous paranormal investigative thriller with an incredible opening scene. The lead couple is a nice pairing as the murder mystery plays matchmaker while neither feels comfortable with falling in love at this time. Kristen Callihan provides an entertaining paranormal whodunit as London remains dark even in a Moonglow.

Harriet Klausner

Rating: R
Spoilers: Nope
Coffee Beans: 3.5
Cover: Pretty cool
Instalove Factor: None
My Personal Recommendation: Worth the read
Disclaimer: I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for this honest review

Oops.

So, I've had this book since about June, I think. Read it and then completely spaced writing the review. So, here I go.

Moonglow is the second book in the Darkest London series, after Firelight. I loved the first in the series sooo much that I hopped on NetGalley to request this one. I wanted to know what happened to the sister.

I think the thing I especially liked about this book was the relationship between Daisy and Ian. They hate each other and are forced to work together to solve a crime and keep her alive, but they don't like it. One bit.

Okay, maybe they like it a little.

Okay, a lot.

But that's the fun. We know they like each other, but refuse to let the other one know it. As body counts rise, Daisy realizes she has to trust and rely on Ian to keep her safe, and Ian has to let down his guard and be brave enough to love again and strong enough to make the hardest decision he's ever had to make.

Moonglow is a good, fast read with an interesting plot and fun characters. Pick it up and fall in love with Daisy and Ian.

I received a free copy of Moonglow for review.

This is the first romance novel that I've read and I came into it with some preconceptions. Frankly, Kristen Callihan blew those away with this book. It's very well written with believable characters (if you believe in werewolves and elementals, that is) that interact in emotionally genuine ways. I am impressed with both the book and the author. It's not quite a perfect novel but it's close.

This is the second book in a 3 book series. I've not read the first book but I didn't find that a hindrance at all. Callihan quite ably works enough information about the backstory into Moonglow so that the reader knows what's going on without boring readers familiar with the first book.

This book starts off with a bang when Daisy witnesses a murder committed by a were and then narrowly misses being killed herself. Daisy is soon rescued by the exiled Lord of the lycans which starts an on-and-off romance between the two. The action keeps you reading and the steamy scenes later in the book will really get your attention. REALLY STEAMY Quite a worthy book here. I highly recommend it.

This book was exciting and sensual read. The characters were endearing in this tale of love and sacrifice. This story takes place in the London of old where people are not what they seem. Take the widowed Daisy Ellen Craigmore who is ready to embark in the pleasures of life that were denied her when she was married. Her husband was not by any means a good man or lover. So Daisy entices a man into a tryst outside in a garden when they are attacked by an animal of some sort. She screams so loud that an unknown man comes to her rescue. The man who heard the woman scream is Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup. He has spent a lifetime outside the society that would see him killed if he was exposed. You see, Ian is a lycan who denies his birthright just to be an ordinary man. He knows there is a rogue werewolf who will kill again if he doesn't keep Daisy safe. She makes Ian alive with desire he hasn't felt in years. He only wants to protect the woman he loves but will the unknown killer get to Daisy first? I really love this series and the authors does a wonderful job of writing. You will not be disappointed because the book will keep you turning the pages to see what happens.

Moonglow is an amazing suspense novel filled with the romantic love story of two tortured souls looking for redemption of their past sins. Daisy Craigmore is attacked by a creature one night in which Ian Ranulf comes to her rescue and this event brings her into the fascinating world of paranormal beings that she never knew even existed. She is a courageous heroine that would do anything to protect the people that she loves even if it means putting her own life in jeopardy. Ian was a perfect partner for Daisy because he was dealing with his own past while fighting to protect her from the creature that was terrorizing the streets of London. The mystery intertwined during the course of this novel provides the ideal backdrop for their budding romance and the identity of the killer left me in tears because of what this would mean for the characters of this story.

Kristen Callihan is a fresh voice in the paranormal genre and has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Her books haunt me after I have finished the last page and I am amazed at her character building and the paranormal world that she has created with each novel. I am desperately awaiting the release of Winterblaze which will continue the story of Poppy and her husband, Winston, which is due out next year.

The relationship development and over arching plot of this book aren't as well put together as with the first book of the series, Firelight.

Writing is good, but she keeps saying "bile rose in his/her throat" all the time, and after the major reveal of the story the surpassing information is basically ignored like it never happened. And it doesn't play much of a role or impact on anything moving forward, but it Really Really should.

This book had all the ingredients for something good, but misses the mark.

I really enjoyed the previous book in this series, but I think I liked this book a little more. The relationship and feelings of the hero & heroine were a little more clearly defined. I also thought the hero was a little more fun. I loved the super hero-like elements to this book.

Daisy was such a cool character. She almost came off like a Sherlock Holmes type in this story - very intelligent, brave, and I really enjoyed her verbal dueling with the hero. She never seemed like a weak character at all. The chemistry between Daisy and Ian was electric and I loved the verbal exchanges between them as well as the sexy intimate scenes. Ian was a welcome surprise in this book. His character seemed much more likable and had more depth than I thought in the previous book. I was intrigued by the new types of paranormal characters like the GIMs and would be interested in more stories about characters in this world. With the way things ended between Poppy and Winston at the end, I am very anxious to read the next book in this series.

I read A LOT. Though everyone has their own opinions and preferences I feel like I can confidently say that this series is AWESOME and most people would agree with me. The story is compelling with the right amounts of thrill, danger, mystery & romance and the clincher is that the author does a great job with her characters...when the characters make you care about them, cry and laugh with them despite the fact that they are fictional then you have a winner! Even though my house is a mess and the kids are wearing the same pajamas now for 24 hrs straight- the story was worth it. So I’ll go take my shower, feed the kids, and then settle down into the next book in the series, lol ?

-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review

Rating: B- ... Heat: Hot

I feel... torn, when it comes to this book. Part of me wants to blame it on my mood, maybe, and another part thinks it was the book itself. It'd probably be safe to simply blame it on both. But while I loved a great many parts, as a whole, me and Moonglow only have a "like" thing going on.

Firstly, other than familiar characters and a familiar locale - this almost felt like a separate series from Firelight.

For one, the supernatural aspect is increased almost exponentially. Where it was once just Miranda and her fire-starting capabilities, the mystery that was Archer, and the reveal of Ian as a werewolf - now it is a veritable monster-mash. Some of said supernaturals are the usual fare, and some were... utterly unique and unusual. And had me going, "Huh. Well, that's interesting."

But it almost became a case of too much all at once. There is a lot of mythology thrown at you in one novel. You're learning about werewolves, their clans and rules and customs, and then vampires enter the picture and then something else and something else and then two or three others. It made me long for the simplicity of Firelight and yet... I really want to learn more about two of the new supernaturals. I mean, move over vamps and weres - I want more GIMs.

As to what a GIM is, well, I'd really rather not ruin it... but I will say it is an acronym for Ghost in the Machine. Intrigued? Yeah, me too.

For two... I really don't know how to qualify it - a feeling of being so markedly different from book one. Maybe, partly, it is due to a lack of the Gothic feel so prevalent in Firelight? Perhaps that's it...

Another point of conflict for me is Daisy and Ian. I like them. Both of them. I liked them together... it just took too long for the actual getting together. And they didn't set the pages on fire, for me, but they did spark.

Daisy, as well as her nose, is very sensitive. After the hell her husband - and his friends in the ton - put her through, I don't blame her. I'd have a myriad of insecurities too. She also feels things strongly and with great emotion, and she cares deeply and is quietly passionate. But she came across wishy-washy, which I am really not a fan of. Her and Ian's banter was fun, but when it came down to it - she floundered a lot longer than was necessary.

And Ian. He is protective and sentimental and very reserved. And he uses humor and flirtation as his shields. Again, I can see how his past would make him so. While not tortured, I'd call him... very unfortunate. Or, seriously so. But I never truly felt it. The recanting of it all didn't resonate with me.

So, while I can say I liked them, I didn't love them. Not nearly as much as I did Miranda and Archer.

I did, however, love the mystery. In Firelight, the mystery surrounded a man - Archer - and his mask. In this book, it is a whodunit. And it is done well. It kept me interested throughout, and the weaving in of detective Winston Lane's investigation along with Daisy and Ian's was great (though Winston did steal the show oftentimes). There is a bit of a Bad Guy Monologue near the end, which always feels flat to me... but once that was over, the true reveal of the murdering werewolf was touching and sad. It had a poignant resolution.

All in all, Moonglow was a very entertaining read. Inventive and imaginative. And sexy as hell (sneaky thumbs, whew, that's all I'll say...). Once again, I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book - Poppy and Winston's. The developments between those two should make for a very complicated love story... and I do so love a man with scars.

Favorite Quote:
He didn't miss the way her pupils dilated with desire and excitement. It fueled his.
"Because you deserve pleasure, lass." He flipped open a snap, the inhuman strength in his fingers making it easy. "You deserve to be well and thoroughly loved."

After reading the first book in the series, Firelight, I was so excited to get a chance to find out what happened next to Miranda and Archer in Moonglow. Unfortunately, this book is about her sister, Daisy, and the werewolf, Ian Northrup. It's not a bad book, but what made me rate Firelight so high was the chemistry and mystery between Miranda and Archer. That and Archer reminded me of Phantom of the Opera, which is my favorite musical. Knowing that Northrup is a werewolf from page one took away his mystery and no matter how hard I tried I could not get attached to him or Daisy.

I know it's not the writing, as Kristen Callihan created a pretty cool Victorian setting for her cast of characters. The paranormal world is expanded in this book too, including vampires and a were-coven or something and other creatures. Although the paranormal aspects were present throughout the novel, it was far too heavy on the romance for my liking. It definitely felt like an urban fantasy but with a heavy emphasis on romance between the lead pair. But I think that after the first book, my expectations were too high. And typical of a sequel, my expectations were shattered.

Daisy is a typical damsel in distress for much of the book and Northrup predictably saves her time after time. I also felt like the danger was missing from the novel. At no point did it seem like the author was willing to risk any of the main characters. And that really ruins a book for me. On a positive note, at least Miranda's gift with fire is explained as is the gifts of several other characters.

As for the ending, the identity of the killer werewolf did catch me off guard, which was good. What wasn't good is how a certain character was saved from certain death at the end. Totally cheap move.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

London 1883
Daisy Margaret Ellis (Craigmore) had been in morning for 366 days and she is done. She believes she has wasted plenty of time on a husband that she hated. She is ready to wear colors and do something infamous and mysterious, so she sets her sights on a man she does not know, but who will hopefully fulfill her needs. Unsure if she can go through with her plan she is surprised when the man is killed in front of her by a creature that looks surprisingly like a wolf. She is rescued by Ian Ranulf, who is the Marquis of Northrup, but not before she is injured by the creature.
Ian Ranulf was at one time, attracted to Daisy's sister Miranda and tried to turn her against Archer before they were married. Ian and Archer were good friends at one time until Ian's father died and blame was laid on Archer who had brought Ian's father into a secret society called the West Moon Club. The club was obsessed with immortality and when Ian's father wanted to leave the group a demon named Victoria tried to burn him alive and scarred him badly, making him weak and unable to lead his clan. Ian comes from a family of werewolves or Lycan and should have lead his clan however he had left the clan years before when his wife and son died. Ian let his younger brother Conell take over, however many in the supernatural world are unhappy with Ian's decision.
Daisy is what is considered a "nose", a person with exceptional smelling abilities and knowing her husband would never provide for her after his death, started working with a perfumer to make a future for herself. She developed a signature perfume however someone took the recipe and sold it to other men to purchase for their ladies. This seems to be the connecting piece between the women who are being targeted by the crazed beast around London. Ian notices that the beast (who he knows is a werewolf) has the smell of sickness about him and that could be why he has let the wolf side take over his body.
The Society for the Suppression of Supernaturals (SOS) has a duty to be kept informed of all supernatural beings and their activities. The SOS, along with most supernaturals want Ian in control of his clan, he is the true alpha and they do not believe his brother Conall is a good choice and his right hand man Lyle has made some suspicious choices.
As Ian and Daisy investigate the murders, they seek help from others in the SOS and visit a man named Lucien who is a GIM, ghost in the machine, an individual that has chosen to live forever after taking over another body. GIM's are the spies of the supernatural world. Ian ends up employing a GIM to spy on Conell to find out if he is hiding the werewolf in order to frame Ian.
The story is steady and fast paced with wonderful suspense as it comes to a roller coaster ending when they try to find who is behind the attacks, who is hiding the sick werewolf and why the werewolf is attacking these women. The conclusion is surprising and fascinating as they search for answers. As Ian and Daisy fall in love they must find the courage to fight one more conflict to find true happiness.

Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.

Given the events at the end of FIRELIGHT, I had assumed book two would continue to explore the magic and changes of Miranda Ellis. The change of focus to Ian and Daisy was a surprise that I soon grew to appreciate. From the opening chapter with Ian's little "bedroom failure", I knew I was going to love MOONGLOW. Once again, Callihan has found the perfect mix of history, romance, and magic to keep me captivated the whole way through.

While Ian as a hero was no surprise, Daisy as his love interest was an exciting choice. Callihan quickly and effectively resolved the whole "I hit on your sister" elephant in the room, and Daisy developed as an interesting heroine without betraying her initial characterization (i.e. - she was the funny, flighty, foot-in-mouth sister in FIRELIGHT, and while I learned more about her troubled marriage, she didn't transform into a completely different woman as soon as the spotlight was upon her). Of course, midstory there was a significant development with Daisy, and it was not at all one that I expected.

Twisty and exciting, in plot and character and world building, MOONGLOW was a surprising delight all the way through. Callihan doesn't give just one climax or development, but rather she explores and uncovers new ground the entire length of the book. MOONGLOW was a well crafted book that delivers on all fronts, and the world of Darkest London grows more interesting and complex with each book. The characters made it oh so easy for me to get emotionally invested in their fate, the romance was scorching hot, and the plot managed to surprise me on several occasions without ever losing my credulity. I put down MOONGLOW eager to read Poppy's story, and I hope Callihan isn't shy about bringing us back into the lives of the other Ellis sisters, if only for brief glimpses.

Sexual Content: Sex scenes.

Grade: B+ or solid 4 stars

Moonglow, the second Darkest London book, has a different texture than its predecessor Firelight, which was slower-paced yet sizzled with sexual tension. What you'll find in this second installment is nice balance of mystery, murder, romance, and expanded world-building set in alternate reality Victorian England. Secrets and monsters are underlying themes.

London, April 1883

Three hundred sixty-six days, ten hours, and fifteen minutes after the death of her abusive husband, Daisy Margaret Ellis abandons her widow's weeds. She's a red-blooded woman eager to re-experience life's diverting activities. Unfortunately, her first night out is a gruesome affair. A vicious attack surrounds Daisy with mutilated bodies and bathes her in blood and gore.

Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup, deserted his lycan clan seventy years ago having experienced the suffering and loss. As an exile, he tries to live a `normal' life, but it grows weary. The night Ian finds Daisy under the body of a were attack his life gains new purpose. Only he can offer the protection she needs as he tries to identify the sickly beast leaving a trail of bodies across London. Ian will approach various otherworldly factions, including Clan Ranulf, before the were reaches its ultimate prize, Daisy. In the meantime, he is drawn to another Ellis sister. He would be a fool to fall in love with another mortal. Will he risk his heart again to later watch Daisy die, as all humans do?

I know who the true monsters are. They are ordinary men who do terrible things."

"What do you know of monsters, Daisy-Meg?" Who was it that terrorized her?

She looked at him with eyes wide and pained, and the very air seemed to still about him. "Enough to know that you are not one of them."

Defining monsters is an underlying theme in this story. Ian sees a monster in the mirror and is haunted by piercing tragedy. You ruin everything, Ian. You and your beast. In this alternate world, lycan are evolved men containing a wolf spirit, while a werewolf is a damaged wolf in control. A were hungers for the kill. Ian represses his wolf feeling it is a shameful beast. He will be a monster! Daisy is critical to resolving his self-hatred. In turn, Ian heals Daisy's legacy of shame imparted by her late husband.

"There are days when I look in the mirror and don't even recognize myself. I've become merely shapes and colors. In truth, I hardly know who I am anymore, or if I was ever anyone at all."

I know who you are, he wanted to shout. You are brave, funny. Fresh air in this smothered town. And utterly blind if you cannot see what I am. Ian owed it to her to make it clear. "Then I envy you," he said. "For I've had lifetimes to learn each line and plane of my face, and I can't stand the sight of it.

The one major criticism is the way the characters are introduced. Ian and Daisy seemed shallow. Initiating the reader with their sexuality did not feel endearing nor did it seem to add depth of character. Perhaps it was to draw a parallel to their sexual appetites. I don't know. Luckily, they are revealed soon enough. Ian and Daisy's scabs are ripped off to reveal their torment and fear. They are a couple who have had darkness in their lives, yet they are not depressing characters. It was fun reading their flirtatious dialogue and zing each other as they fenced words. The moments when Ian and Daisy offered each other comfort and loving words were romantic.

Secrets also play a large role in this novel. We see the proverbial skeletons in the closet. There are also revelations, a mysterious supernatural leader, new secondary characters, and fallout of various kinds. It is all good stuff! It has me longing for the next book!

Moonglow's mystery leads Ian and Daisy on a trail that introduces readers to interesting new supernaturals. The GIMs(Ghosts in the Machine) insert an element of science fiction, almost like steampunk. The S.O.S. (Society for the Suppression of Supernaturals Secondary) has potential, too. Let's not forget the vampires! Secondary characters are expanded, but not to distraction.

Ian Ranulf was an enticing character in Firelight, and his character does not disappoint in Moonglow! Daisy Ellis is also appealing as the heroine. Her experiences demonstrate the sexual double standards of the time and, in some minds, present time. This hero and heroine are an ideal match!

I'm anxious for Poppy's story, Winterblaze. There also seems potential for the following secondary characters: Lucien Stone, Mary Chase, and Jack Talent. Overall, despite the imperfect start (for me), the characters, plot, world, emotion, romance, and sexy times made this book a very gratifying read!

ARC courtesy of Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley

A great storyteller. Really like her style. Daisy is just so likable, so real. Thought I would struggle liking Ian with the sharp teeth, but Callihan did a great job. He charmed me right along with Daisy! Only advice to author - don't get so caught up in laying the plot line for the next book. SOS? GIMs? Felt out of context with the rest of the story. Definitely not in synch with historical London and not built from standard lore, so stuck out in a bad way.

Great romance or historical fiction or fantasy, I'm not sure what to call it---except good reading. It follows the familiar plot line of a historical romance, but includes Lycan, werewolf, supernatural creatures and magic beneath the surface of 1800 London society. Daisy is a damaged widow seeking sexual pleasures when she stumbles upon a gruesome murder. Ian , equally tormented, is drawn to the murder scene by her screams. Thus begins their liaison to keep Daisy save and uncover the murder, which happens to be a sick werewolf . Readers are lead into the supernatural world of London as they track down the truth and discover their love. The story wraps up at the with all questions answered, however, there are other novels about Daisy's sisters---Miranda and Poppy.

This was a tough one. Kristin Callihan is one of thee best writer's I've ever read. She has a true gift for bringing the reader into the scene. I love her writing style and the pace of this book. I was really bummed to feel like her amazing talent was wasted on such a trashy heroine.

I did not read any of the books in the series prior to this one. This book does stand alone just fine, however.

What I didn't like is that our heroine, Daisy, is a slut. No other way to put it.
On page one of the Prologue, we arrive at the scene where our hero, Ian is having sex with a whore.... and he can't finish. Ok..not impressed. On the first page of chapter one, Daisy, our heroine is preparing to have meaningless sex with a total stranger in a stinking, filthy back alley. Something she's perfectly fine with and has no real feeling about whatsoever. Later we find out that she had meaningless sex with the stable boys, house help, etc. before she was married to her mean husband, who is now dead. Apparently her husband was disgusted by that and treated her badly.

The other thing that bothered me is that Daisy was very calm, cool and collected throughout the book. I would say cold. When crazy scary stuff happened, she did not react outwardly how a normal person would. She acts like nothing is a big deal and just handled it with no apparent emotion. Yet whenever she is with Ian, she is afraid, intimidated to some degree, but there is no real reason why.

I liked all the werewolf parts, thought they were exciting and interesting. The suspense was good and the story was great. It would have been perfect if not for the lack of moral charactor in the heroine.

I actually really loved the werewolf, Ian and thought he ended up being a great hero. His charactor was everything you could want in a man. Strong, smart, protective, valliant.... he could have done much better than Daisy.

I had read the first novel Firelight and rather enjoyed it. I especially enjoyed the historical romance aspect of it. However with this second novel I was disappointed. I found that there was no true motive for the two main characters Ian and Daisy to love each other. He offers to protect her from werewolves and that's about it. The sex scenes were not romantic. They were coarse and rather gross, especially the "thumb up the butt" scene. The flesh tearing werewolf scenes were classier than that. It was not what I expected from a romance. There was very little actual "romance" in it. I think the writer is talented and all but this story was not to my liking.

Callihan has hit yet another book out of the park. Sexy, edgy, thrilling, this book has it all. Great mix of enticing, fast-paced, unique plot and deep, complex, wonderfully flawed characters. A definite yes! Callihan is an auto-buy from now on!

Not quite steampunk but not exactly regency, somehow this book seems to merge to two genre's of romance. The second book in a series, that definitely stands on its own. A fast fun read, with just enough sex and plenty of action and mystery. There are a few times when the character's speak oddly modern, but it didn't really bother me. If you're a fan of romance, Lycan's, and mystery you'll like this book.

I'm partial to werewolves, but Ian is complex, wounded, not superman. I loved him. Daisy is also good, strong, not too stupid. The story is engrossing. I've read so many romances I tend to skim over the love scenes, but these ones are worth reading, compelling. I liked the first book a lot but this one is better, building the author's world into a more complex and interesting place.

Grade: B+ or solid 4 stars

Moonglow, the second Darkest London book, has a different texture than its predecessor Firelight, which was slower-paced yet sizzled with sexual tension. What you'll find in this second installment is nice balance of mystery, murder, romance, and expanded world-building set in alternate reality Victorian England. Secrets and monsters are underlying themes.

London, April 1883

Three hundred sixty-six days, ten hours, and fifteen minutes after the death of her abusive husband, Daisy Margaret Ellis abandons her widow's weeds. She's a red-blooded woman eager to re-experience life's diverting activities. Unfortunately, her first night out is a gruesome affair. A vicious attack surrounds Daisy with mutilated bodies and bathes her in blood and gore.

Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup, deserted his lycan clan seventy years ago having experienced the suffering and loss. As an exile, he tries to live a `normal' life, but it grows weary. The night Ian finds Daisy under the body of a were attack his life gains new purpose. Only he can offer the protection she needs as he tries to identify the sickly beast leaving a trail of bodies across London. Ian will approach various otherworldly factions, including Clan Ranulf, before the were reaches its ultimate prize, Daisy. In the meantime, he is drawn to another Ellis sister. He would be a fool to fall in love with another mortal. Will he risk his heart again to later watch Daisy die, as all humans do?

I know who the true monsters are. They are ordinary men who do terrible things."

"What do you know of monsters, Daisy-Meg?" Who was it that terrorized her?

She looked at him with eyes wide and pained, and the very air seemed to still about him. "Enough to know that you are not one of them."

Defining monsters is an underlying theme in this story. Ian sees a monster in the mirror and is haunted by piercing tragedy. You ruin everything, Ian. You and your beast. In this alternate world, lycan are evolved men containing a wolf spirit, while a werewolf is a damaged wolf in control. A were hungers for the kill. Ian represses his wolf feeling it is a shameful beast. He will be a monster! Daisy is critical to resolving his self-hatred. In turn, Ian heals Daisy's legacy of shame imparted by her late husband.

"There are days when I look in the mirror and don't even recognize myself. I've become merely shapes and colors. In truth, I hardly know who I am anymore, or if I was ever anyone at all."

I know who you are, he wanted to shout. You are brave, funny. Fresh air in this smothered town. And utterly blind if you cannot see what I am. Ian owed it to her to make it clear. "Then I envy you," he said. "For I've had lifetimes to learn each line and plane of my face, and I can't stand the sight of it.

The one major criticism is the way the characters are introduced. Ian and Daisy seemed shallow. Initiating the reader with their sexuality did not feel endearing nor did it seem to add depth of character. Perhaps it was to draw a parallel to their sexual appetites. I don't know. Luckily, they are revealed soon enough. Ian and Daisy's scabs are ripped off to reveal their torment and fear. They are a couple who have had darkness in their lives, yet they are not depressing characters. It was fun reading their flirtatious dialogue and zing each other as they fenced words. The moments when Ian and Daisy offered each other comfort and loving words were romantic.

Secrets also play a large role in this novel. We see the proverbial skeletons in the closet. There are also revelations, a mysterious supernatural leader, new secondary characters, and fallout of various kinds. It is all good stuff! It has me longing for the next book!

Moonglow's mystery leads Ian and Daisy on a trail that introduces readers to interesting new supernaturals. The GIMs(Ghosts in the Machine) insert an element of science fiction, almost like steampunk. The S.O.S. (Society for the Suppression of Supernaturals Secondary) has potential, too. Let's not forget the vampires! Secondary characters are expanded, but not to distraction.

Ian Ranulf was an enticing character in Firelight, and his character does not disappoint in Moonglow! Daisy Ellis is also appealing as the heroine. Her experiences demonstrate the sexual double standards of the time and, in some minds, present time. This hero and heroine are an ideal match!

I'm anxious for Poppy's story, Winterblaze. There also seems potential for the following secondary characters: Lucien Stone, Mary Chase, and Jack Talent. Overall, despite the imperfect start (for me), the characters, plot, world, emotion, romance, and sexy times made this book a very gratifying read!

ARC courtesy of Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley

I could not put this book down. Well developed plot. Interesting characters. Solid romance with steamy sex scenes. A good mystery. Lots of fun.
Enough paranormal without being buried under it. A very good read. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

Book 2 was a very passionate and intense love affair between Daisy and Ian. We met Ian in book one, he is the one who flirted with and tried to steal Archer's wife (and Daisey's sister) Miranda. There is a werewolf on the loose and Ian rescues Daisy from an attack. From that point on, they are together, inseparable. Their characters were great and well developed. The plot was entertaining and faced paced. Their passion and love was beautiful. I loved every second of this book. Ian was such a strong character and Daisy was the perfect match. But things aren't all flowers and champagne, they must stop a werewolf, keep humans from discovering the existence of supernaturals, stop Ian's brother and king of the Were's from exposing them to the humans, and of course fall in love and prove to each other that they could trust the other. It was a well put together story and I can't think of anything I didn't like about it. I highly recommend this one.