Firelight (Darkest London) (edition 2012)

As a fan of both historical romance and urban fantasy, I can't express how excited I was to find FIRELIGHT's unique blend of these two genres. Gothic and sexy as my heart could desire, with a butt kicking heroine coming into her own power. ( )

I barely managed to finish this book. It was just so... boring to me.
I usually love historical romance and paranormal romance books. And I read some that mix this two genres and I loved them. But this book just left me cold. Even an added mystery and murders could not keep me interested.
I will not be continuing this series any time soon. ( )

Might come back to this at some point, if I'm in that sort of dutiful, self-flagellating mood, but at the moment I want this off my currently reading shelf. I found the writing awkward and the plotting terribly cliched. ( )

Firelight
4 Stars

Excellent characterization, an engaging story and an intense romance but needs more world building.

Miranda is a strong, intelligent and independent heroine with a backstory that has definite potential. She is very likable, particularly in her loyalty to Archer. However, my one small caveat is that the origin and nature of her fire gift is not sufficiently explained.

Archer is an enigmatic hero with a tortured air and mysterious secrets that only add to his appeal. Unfortunately, after the build up surrounding his physical deformity and social ostracism, the ultimate revelation is anti-climactic.

The plot is well-paced and exciting with some interesting twists and a really nasty villain. There are, however, a number of loose ends that are left hanging, such as the involvement of Miranda's brother-in-law in the investigation and McKinnon's role in the events. Moreover, while Miranda and Archer's romance is intense and steamy, it progresses far too rapidly from a couple with a virtually non-existent acquaintance to one that is deeply in love and willing to sacrifice their very lives for each other.

Overall, an exciting beginning to what looks like an intriguing series, and the information that I find lacking may appear in the novella that precedes this book. ( )

Plot: 4 1/2 stars
Characterization: 3 1/2
Style-5
Pace- 3 1/2
Total: 4 and change.

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