Candlelight is Stacy McWilliams's paranormal début novella, introducing readers to the world and characters she has created for her upcoming Ember Saga series. The story of Candlelight is very interesting and original, and I felt drawn in by her characters and their story - I got curious and wanted to know more and more, but unfortunately I at times felt like what was being told was merely skimming the surface. My old English teacher's (as in no longer mine, not old as in... old - though I suppose she isn't the youngest anymore (; ... sorry Mrs H.!) saying, "Dig a little deeper, little creeper!", came to my mind a couple of times as I occasionally felt like I was missing out on something - on what, I couldn't tell - it was but a nagging feeling that kept coming back to me every now and then.
What I definitely did like were the characters McWilliams has created - especially Nate, the protagonist. He is very interesting to follow, and his emotions were something that were touched on a deeper basis, enabling the reader to dive a little more into the story.
I understand that this is a novella and is thus, more or less, automatically restricted in length - yet I had hoped for just a little bit more. As this novella is a prequel to a novel yet to be released, I would have hoped for a little more backstory on 'who', and especially 'what', the main characters are [note: it is paranormal, and thus a world created by the author, unique to her story], and not 'just' the lead up to the situation that will be the main focus in the next installment.
I would recommend this book to younger readers especially (YA, not kids).
If you are looking for a quick, easy and fun-to-read paranormal story, which holds a hint of romance - but also enough of demonic ways - then this could be your choice of evening entertainment. McWilliams has a very unique writing style, which might take a little bit of getting used to - at the same time it creates a rather one-of-a-kind reading flow, which sets the pace for the novella and conveys the age of the main characters.
3.5/5 luminous stars - and I am looking forward to the full-length novel, hoping that it will quench my thirst for a deeper dive into the story!
Life was full of nothing but darkness for Nathan Stevenson until Jasmine appeared in his life. She brought his innermost desires to the surface. She burned her way through to his heart to become embedded in his soul. He knew she was dangerous, but would she break down his wall as he dreamed of her touch and fought against the impulse to protect her? Would their love be enough to defeat his demons? Was he strong enough to resist her, or would her light burn irrevocably?
Hi there!
I am a mum to two amazing little boys. I have been writing for the past five years and will be finished with my book in the next week before it flies off to my editor. :)
I am happy, trusting and enjoy a cheeky wine and gossip with my girls.
I enjoy watching lots of different TV shows and I love reading. :)
That's all, folks. ;)
Escaping Demons (Encountering Demons #1) on goodreads
*** I received an unedited ARC from the author, in exchange for an honest review! ***
