Sarah M. Cradit

Myths of Midwinter by Sarah M. Cradit is a 2015 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

“Remember the warning, with the fervor of faith:
Seduction to sinner. A legacy in splinters. Beware the myths of midwinter”

By now those who follow my reviews are well aware of my gushing effusiveness over this series. I can honestly say I've never come across a such a unique blend of paranormal, occult, and fantasy, mixed with all manner of family drama and show more suspense. This series is one that may leave a character hanging in the balance, but doesn't necessarily have to pick up where it left off in the next book, which under ordinary circumstances might leave readers feeling frustrated , but fans of HOC&C know to be patient and that good things come to those that wait…

While Ana's fate is still in question, Finn is hard at work finding a way to save his wife. In the meantime he learns more about his own gifts and how he can use those gifts to reunite himself with Ana and for the sake of his son and the prophesy.

But, the main story here doesn't center on that particular situation as much as it does on some characters we've met briefly in previous installments. This was a wicked story, full of white knuckle suspense, some morally bankrupt characters, with a very heavy, dark, atmosphere that gave me the shivers a time or two.

This book is definitely intended for those who have kept up the series up to this point, so it's safe to say, that all that occurs here is part of a bigger picture. I can't wait to see what happens next, which is the beauty of this series. It's always fresh, always rich in details and atmosphere, sharp dialogue, and pushes the reader toward vivid imagery and challenges our perceptions.

As always this story is well written, complex, and utterly absorbing.

4.5 stars show less

I was utterly captivated by Ana, the courageous heir of the Vjestik family, and Tyr, a mysterious recluse with a haunting past. Cradit's writing immersed me in a world of magic and danger, where forbidden love blossoms amidst ancient evils. Ana's resilience and Tyr's unwavering support resonated deeply with me, creating characters I genuinely cared about. The story skillfully weaved elements of the Snow White tale, adding unique twists that kept me engaged throughout. Cradit's prose was show more poetic, infusing the narrative with emotion. While the characters occasionally felt like fairy tale archetypes, the magical world and the poignant love story made for a compelling read. This book is a testament to Cradit's storytelling prowess, offering a mesmerizing fantasy romance experience. show less

I begged my small children to please, please, please not get into anything so I could get through the last action packed third of this book.

On the plus side, my children can now say “oh sh**!” in proper context because of my reaction to this book.

My first thought upon reading Sarah M. Cradit's "The Illusions of Eventide" was "where have these books been all my life?" I immediately fell in love with the characters, story line and world these people inhabit. Between Empyreans, the Farvaerdig, the Evigbond, Ulfberht and the Runeans, I was completely hooked.

I haven't seen world-building on a scale like this since The Lord of the Rings, The Wheel of Time or Game of Thrones and the author does it in such a way that you are introduced at show more the right pace to grasp everything and not get confused. This world is entirely believable, so much so that you almost question whether it really does exist. They way everything is explained, it sounds completely plausible while still maintaining an air of other-worldliness and mystique.

This is the first book in the series; however, there are some prequels and short stories that compliment the series that I am eager to read. If you like getting involved in sprawling family sagas, mysterious worlds or compelling human dramas, these books are for you. show less