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Down Comes the Night
"A YA fantasy classic in the making." - Charlie Lynn Herman, author of The Devouring Gray
"Fans of Leigh Bardugo's "Grisha Trilogy" and Marie Rutkoski's "Winner's Trilogy" have been waiting for this Darkling-esque romance..." - School Library Journal (Starred Review)
New York Times bestselling author Allison Saft's Down Comes the Night is a snow-drenched romantic fantasy that keeps you racing through the pages long into the night.
He saw the darkness in her magic. She saw the magic in his darkness.
Wren Southerland's reckless use of magic has cost her everything: she's been dismissed from the Queen's Guard and separated from her best friend--the girl she loves. So when a letter arrives from a reclusive lord, asking Wren to come to his estate, Colwick Hall, to cure his servant from a mysterious illness, she seizes her chance to redeem herself.
The mansion is crumbling, icy winds haunt the caved-in halls, and her eccentric host forbids her from leaving her room after dark. Worse, Wren's patient isn't a servant at all but Hal Cavendish, the infamous Reaper of Vesria and her kingdom's sworn enemy. Hal also came to Colwick Hall for redemption, but the secrets in the estate may lead to both of their deaths.
With sinister forces at work, Wren and Hal realize they'll have to join together if they have any hope of saving their kingdoms. But as Wren circles closer to the nefarious truth behind Hal's illness, they realize they have no escape from the monsters within the mansion. All they have is each other, and a startling desire that could be their downfall.
Love makes monsters of us all
"Fans of Leigh Bardugo's "Grisha Trilogy" and Marie Rutkoski's "Winner's Trilogy" have been waiting for this Darkling-esque romance..." - School Library Journal (Starred Review)
New York Times bestselling author Allison Saft's Down Comes the Night is a snow-drenched romantic fantasy that keeps you racing through the pages long into the night.
He saw the darkness in her magic. She saw the magic in his darkness.
Wren Southerland's reckless use of magic has cost her everything: she's been dismissed from the Queen's Guard and separated from her best friend--the girl she loves. So when a letter arrives from a reclusive lord, asking Wren to come to his estate, Colwick Hall, to cure his servant from a mysterious illness, she seizes her chance to redeem herself.
The mansion is crumbling, icy winds haunt the caved-in halls, and her eccentric host forbids her from leaving her room after dark. Worse, Wren's patient isn't a servant at all but Hal Cavendish, the infamous Reaper of Vesria and her kingdom's sworn enemy. Hal also came to Colwick Hall for redemption, but the secrets in the estate may lead to both of their deaths.
With sinister forces at work, Wren and Hal realize they'll have to join together if they have any hope of saving their kingdoms. But as Wren circles closer to the nefarious truth behind Hal's illness, they realize they have no escape from the monsters within the mansion. All they have is each other, and a startling desire that could be their downfall.
Love makes monsters of us all
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 2, 2021
About the author
Allison Saft
6 books1,994 followersAllison Saft is the New York Times and indie bestselling author of A Far Wilder Magic and Down Comes the Night. After receiving her MA in English Literature from Tulane University, she moved from the Gulf Coast to the West Coast, where she spends her time rolling on eight wheels and practicing aerial silks. She lives with her partner and an Italian greyhound named Marzipan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,071 reviews
February 13, 2023
Down Comes the Night has a very compelling premise: two enemies, standing on opposite sides of an unending war, find themselves miserably trapped with unknowable terrors (and with each other) inside an estate lurking deep in the dark fog-wreathed mountains, and like any trapped thing, they must scrape up answers and fight to the bitter end, together.
This is, for the most part, a very successful debut. Down Comes the Night thrives in its themes of heritage and war and power, and in the changing relationship between Wren and Hal, and the two far outshine the sparsely decorated setup and the anemic predictability of the storyline. This is a novel that probes at the nature of what it means to inherit a story of hatred and prejudice and be in perpetual service of it. “War makes monsters out of children,” writes Saft, they live shoulder to shoulder with it and thus grow immune to its atrocities. Wren and Hal, both barely having finished being children, were taught to survive in the vocabularies of violence and monstrousness, and they did not know any other language. Their heady collision precipitates a difficult education, and it is that slow, painful unraveling of received notions and ideas about one another which constitutes the novel’s most rewarding experience.
I have to say, however—I am not sure this book lives up to its gothic billing. The story gropes unsuccessfully for the gothic note, but doesn’t fulfill it. Throughout, I found myself longing for the kind of hauntignly evocative atmosphere that Moreno-Garcia crafts so effectively in her gothic charmer, Mexican Gothic, for example. I think my expectations might have simply been exacerbated by the marketing around the book.
This is, for the most part, a very successful debut. Down Comes the Night thrives in its themes of heritage and war and power, and in the changing relationship between Wren and Hal, and the two far outshine the sparsely decorated setup and the anemic predictability of the storyline. This is a novel that probes at the nature of what it means to inherit a story of hatred and prejudice and be in perpetual service of it. “War makes monsters out of children,” writes Saft, they live shoulder to shoulder with it and thus grow immune to its atrocities. Wren and Hal, both barely having finished being children, were taught to survive in the vocabularies of violence and monstrousness, and they did not know any other language. Their heady collision precipitates a difficult education, and it is that slow, painful unraveling of received notions and ideas about one another which constitutes the novel’s most rewarding experience.
I have to say, however—I am not sure this book lives up to its gothic billing. The story gropes unsuccessfully for the gothic note, but doesn’t fulfill it. Throughout, I found myself longing for the kind of hauntignly evocative atmosphere that Moreno-Garcia crafts so effectively in her gothic charmer, Mexican Gothic, for example. I think my expectations might have simply been exacerbated by the marketing around the book.
February 16, 2023
Okay! There are gothic, disturbing vibes, a blooming true romance, hateful kingdoms, references to Darwin’s theory of natural selection and Frankenstein and pure magic dances with fantasy genre. This combination seems like an intriguingly fresh, riveting, enjoyable debut novel!
A dark mansion reminds you of Guillermo Del Toro’s dark, claustrophobic world building, a rich, mysterious man keeps very dangerous secret beyond the closed doors, two rivalries dig out mysteries by roaming around the eerie, ominous corridors, looking for secret passages to find clues to stop the probable war between the kingdoms as they helplessly fall for each other.
As the epic rivalry brings both kingdoms of the Danubian and Vesria at the edge of war, Wren Southerland is the most skilled healer of the Danubian, at the service of Queen’s Guard, is punished by her own aunt Queen Isabel who is merciless, ice queen, never shows any sign of compassion. She sentenced to spend her days at abbey as like the days she’s been abandoned as a child when her mother has died. Even though she is talented healer she is insecure because of cruel attitudes of Queen and now her best friend, lover Una puts her rising career in the kingdom first, criticizing her emotional choices as weakness.
As Danubian and Vesria’s guards who have powerful magic start to get missing suspiciously, both parties start to accuse each other which increase the war threat.
Now Wren accepts an offer via getting a letter from Lord Alistair Lowry, a rich, powerful man, came from scandals needs her help to cure one of his men at his service. This kind of powerful man could be a great alias to stop the war and make her position restore, earn her respect she is looking for. But of course Queen is not pleased about the existence of this letter and bans her to leave the place.
So she get to deceive Una to run away from abbey to ride on the carriage which is sent for her by Lowry.
But as soon as she arrives at the mansion, the suspicious attitudes and mood swings of Lowry makes her question about her decision and as soon as she finds out the identity of the patient, she wants to run away without looking back because the patient is their kingdom’s arch enemy Hal Cavendish: ruthless warrior, killer, using his destructive magic by using his enchanting eyes.
If Wren heals him, that will be treachery crime but does she needs to make sacrifices for greater good or she has to kill the enemy by herself which will be against the ethics of being a healer.
And the worst thing is not her dilemma to finish her mission properly. As she start to know more about Hal, she starts to understand both of the kingdoms were deceived and the things she believed were the distorted facts. The mansion they reside is full of deadly secrets and she has to be accomplice of Hal to find out the truth to bring justice and peace. But as you imagine, the chemistry between them and forbidden love drag them into a dangerous line they shouldn’t pass.
Overall: Likable MCs, riveting story telling, action packed, exciting development were the strengths of the story. Only one thing bothered me: At some parts romance overshadowed the fantasy genre which brought out unnecessary drama in the story. But I mostly enjoyed the promising premise.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Wednesday Books for sharing this exciting ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
A dark mansion reminds you of Guillermo Del Toro’s dark, claustrophobic world building, a rich, mysterious man keeps very dangerous secret beyond the closed doors, two rivalries dig out mysteries by roaming around the eerie, ominous corridors, looking for secret passages to find clues to stop the probable war between the kingdoms as they helplessly fall for each other.
As the epic rivalry brings both kingdoms of the Danubian and Vesria at the edge of war, Wren Southerland is the most skilled healer of the Danubian, at the service of Queen’s Guard, is punished by her own aunt Queen Isabel who is merciless, ice queen, never shows any sign of compassion. She sentenced to spend her days at abbey as like the days she’s been abandoned as a child when her mother has died. Even though she is talented healer she is insecure because of cruel attitudes of Queen and now her best friend, lover Una puts her rising career in the kingdom first, criticizing her emotional choices as weakness.
As Danubian and Vesria’s guards who have powerful magic start to get missing suspiciously, both parties start to accuse each other which increase the war threat.
Now Wren accepts an offer via getting a letter from Lord Alistair Lowry, a rich, powerful man, came from scandals needs her help to cure one of his men at his service. This kind of powerful man could be a great alias to stop the war and make her position restore, earn her respect she is looking for. But of course Queen is not pleased about the existence of this letter and bans her to leave the place.
So she get to deceive Una to run away from abbey to ride on the carriage which is sent for her by Lowry.
But as soon as she arrives at the mansion, the suspicious attitudes and mood swings of Lowry makes her question about her decision and as soon as she finds out the identity of the patient, she wants to run away without looking back because the patient is their kingdom’s arch enemy Hal Cavendish: ruthless warrior, killer, using his destructive magic by using his enchanting eyes.
If Wren heals him, that will be treachery crime but does she needs to make sacrifices for greater good or she has to kill the enemy by herself which will be against the ethics of being a healer.
And the worst thing is not her dilemma to finish her mission properly. As she start to know more about Hal, she starts to understand both of the kingdoms were deceived and the things she believed were the distorted facts. The mansion they reside is full of deadly secrets and she has to be accomplice of Hal to find out the truth to bring justice and peace. But as you imagine, the chemistry between them and forbidden love drag them into a dangerous line they shouldn’t pass.
Overall: Likable MCs, riveting story telling, action packed, exciting development were the strengths of the story. Only one thing bothered me: At some parts romance overshadowed the fantasy genre which brought out unnecessary drama in the story. But I mostly enjoyed the promising premise.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Wednesday Books for sharing this exciting ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
November 27, 2023
Wren is a magical healer. She also happens to be the niece of the Queen of Danu, but that hasn't won her any favors.
In fact, after her mother's untimely death, her Aunt has consistently treated her quite poorly.
After Wren's empathy leads to an error in judgement while at work, she gets ejected from the Queen's Guard and banished to live in a remote abbey.
The most upsetting aspect of this whole affair is that Wren is then separated from her best friend, Una, a Captain in the Queen's Guard and the woman she loves.
Wren is kicking herself for her mistake and just trying to figure out a way back to Una. Certainly her Aunt will find it in her heart to forgive her need to care for others.
While at the abbey, stewing in her misery, Wren receives a letter from Lord Alistair Lowry, inviting her to his home, in order to help him with a little problem.
A mysterious illness has plauged his household. His servants are sick and dying. One man is still alive, but he's suffering terribly. Lord Lowry wants Wren to try to heal this suffering man before it is to late.
She considers it a great opportunity and decides to take him up on his offer, traveling to the neighboring kingdom of Cernos, to Lowry's remote estate of Colwick Hall.
((cue the gothic ambiance))
Her movements weren't exactly approved by the Queen, so Wren finds herself a bit of an Outlaw. In her eyes, she didn't have any other options though.
Shockingly, her new patient turns out to be someone she knows. Hal Cavendish, the infamous Reaper of Vesria, her kingdom's sworn enemy.
There's political gains to be made here. Perhaps Wren can can still work her way into the Queen's good graces and be reunited with Una.
As she begins to get to know Hal, however, she starts to question a lot of her previous beliefs. Soon, Wren and Hal are working together to solve a murder mystery chilling enough for even the sturdiest of characters.
Down Comes the Night was such a pleasant surprise. A great debut for Saft!
There were many aspects that I enjoyed, but first and foremost would be the atmosphere. Colwick Hall felt like the creepy, gothic mansion of my dreams. Reading this, I felt like I was there. I could smell it, feel the cold and I was dreading what was hiding in every shadow.
Hal and Wren working together, watching their relationship evolve, was fantastic. They were complete opposites, but grew to understand and appreciate each other because of that.
I was genuinely afraid for them. The dangers they faced as the explored the secrets of Colwick Hall were palpable.
I also thought the magic was well done. Wren's work as a magic-based healer was quite detailed and I liked that it was a bit on the gruesome side.
Saft definitely didn't shy away from blood and gore, so if you enjoy that, as I do, you should definitely check this one out. You know who you are.
Overall, I think this is a very fun standalone YA Fantasy. There were a few little things that didn't work as well for my tastes, but they were definitely overshadowed by the aspects I enjoyed.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Wednesday Books, for providing me with a copy of this to read and review. I had a great time with it and look forward to reading more from Allison Saft!
In fact, after her mother's untimely death, her Aunt has consistently treated her quite poorly.
After Wren's empathy leads to an error in judgement while at work, she gets ejected from the Queen's Guard and banished to live in a remote abbey.
The most upsetting aspect of this whole affair is that Wren is then separated from her best friend, Una, a Captain in the Queen's Guard and the woman she loves.
Wren is kicking herself for her mistake and just trying to figure out a way back to Una. Certainly her Aunt will find it in her heart to forgive her need to care for others.
While at the abbey, stewing in her misery, Wren receives a letter from Lord Alistair Lowry, inviting her to his home, in order to help him with a little problem.
A mysterious illness has plauged his household. His servants are sick and dying. One man is still alive, but he's suffering terribly. Lord Lowry wants Wren to try to heal this suffering man before it is to late.
She considers it a great opportunity and decides to take him up on his offer, traveling to the neighboring kingdom of Cernos, to Lowry's remote estate of Colwick Hall.
((cue the gothic ambiance))
Her movements weren't exactly approved by the Queen, so Wren finds herself a bit of an Outlaw. In her eyes, she didn't have any other options though.
Shockingly, her new patient turns out to be someone she knows. Hal Cavendish, the infamous Reaper of Vesria, her kingdom's sworn enemy.
There's political gains to be made here. Perhaps Wren can can still work her way into the Queen's good graces and be reunited with Una.
As she begins to get to know Hal, however, she starts to question a lot of her previous beliefs. Soon, Wren and Hal are working together to solve a murder mystery chilling enough for even the sturdiest of characters.
Down Comes the Night was such a pleasant surprise. A great debut for Saft!
There were many aspects that I enjoyed, but first and foremost would be the atmosphere. Colwick Hall felt like the creepy, gothic mansion of my dreams. Reading this, I felt like I was there. I could smell it, feel the cold and I was dreading what was hiding in every shadow.
Hal and Wren working together, watching their relationship evolve, was fantastic. They were complete opposites, but grew to understand and appreciate each other because of that.
I was genuinely afraid for them. The dangers they faced as the explored the secrets of Colwick Hall were palpable.
I also thought the magic was well done. Wren's work as a magic-based healer was quite detailed and I liked that it was a bit on the gruesome side.
Saft definitely didn't shy away from blood and gore, so if you enjoy that, as I do, you should definitely check this one out. You know who you are.
Overall, I think this is a very fun standalone YA Fantasy. There were a few little things that didn't work as well for my tastes, but they were definitely overshadowed by the aspects I enjoyed.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Wednesday Books, for providing me with a copy of this to read and review. I had a great time with it and look forward to reading more from Allison Saft!
January 11, 2024
Where do I start with the book because I have expectations of what it should be and I am so happy that it does not disappoint me. I love gothic romances — the eerie feeling, the perpetually dark and chill environment. I love all of it and so, I love this book.
Let's just start with Wren Southerland because characters are pillars in books for me and Wren Southerland just happened to be my favourite. I particularly love the theme of the battle over compassion, as to whether it's a weakness or strength; seemingly everyone around Wren had always put her down for her kindness. She's empathetic, passionate and wears her heart on her sleeves. But I love the message that this book is giving and to be vulnerable is not a weakness.
However, her recklessness with using magic had cost her, her positing, separating her from her best friend, Una who also happened to be the person she loved.
While Una was not exceptionally a lovable character. She's controlling, annoying and to some extend, is abusive — but I love to read the incongruity between her and Wren when it comes to their personality and relationship. It shows the convolution of their characters which made me feel more connected and understanding despite how some of them got me wanted to pull my hair (out of frustration) because Wren is Wren, while Una is Una.
But things changed when Wren received a letter from a reclusive lord asking to help cure the illnesses of one of his servants. She took this as her opportunity to redeem herself, except she was not expecting the patient to be her kingdom’s sworn enemy, Hal Cavendish.
Hal Cavendish best known as the Reaper of Vesria; is not an upright honourable person. Regardless of how, he was willing to do what he can to prevent a war from coming and redeem himself from his past mistakes. Although one may find Hal a bit uninteresting (only because he was sick and there was not much you can get from someone who's been lying on his bed most of the time) but at some features, he was almost the same as Wren. While the mystery surrounding his illness and the lonely setting of the manor created a frightening sense of peril, I adored the slow-burn romance.
That being so, here comes the most intriguing character: Lord Lawry. One reclusive and anxious man, who might also give you the best creep. I was contented when Wren was invited by him to the mansion, ready for her redemption arc; assuming he was nice and trustworthy. However, as Allison Saft unfolds the narrative, doubt creeps in, making you question his character for his peculiar and suspicious nature — a transformation I particularly appreciate witnessing from the beginning to the end of the book.
The world-building in this story is decent but the magic system, fusing it with science made it compelling. I enjoy reading Wren treating all her patients with her magic. I just wished that the author could give me more variation in Wren's magic as I believe, healing isn’t her only strength (as was stated earlier) but was not executed here.
As a whole, Allison Saft transports her readers to a world that is both dangerously enticing and courageously hopeful. I couldn't look away for a second, my stomach churning with a never-ending sense of dread. This is a story that will captivate you, from the smart characters to the multi-sensory scenery. It was just a bit downer that I find the ending a bit rushed.
Nevertheless, I believe this is still a successful debut and I can't wait to read more from Allison Saft. And now I understand why the author dedicated this book:
Let's just start with Wren Southerland because characters are pillars in books for me and Wren Southerland just happened to be my favourite. I particularly love the theme of the battle over compassion, as to whether it's a weakness or strength; seemingly everyone around Wren had always put her down for her kindness. She's empathetic, passionate and wears her heart on her sleeves. But I love the message that this book is giving and to be vulnerable is not a weakness.
However, her recklessness with using magic had cost her, her positing, separating her from her best friend, Una who also happened to be the person she loved.
While Una was not exceptionally a lovable character. She's controlling, annoying and to some extend, is abusive — but I love to read the incongruity between her and Wren when it comes to their personality and relationship. It shows the convolution of their characters which made me feel more connected and understanding despite how some of them got me wanted to pull my hair (out of frustration) because Wren is Wren, while Una is Una.
But things changed when Wren received a letter from a reclusive lord asking to help cure the illnesses of one of his servants. She took this as her opportunity to redeem herself, except she was not expecting the patient to be her kingdom’s sworn enemy, Hal Cavendish.
Hal Cavendish best known as the Reaper of Vesria; is not an upright honourable person. Regardless of how, he was willing to do what he can to prevent a war from coming and redeem himself from his past mistakes. Although one may find Hal a bit uninteresting (only because he was sick and there was not much you can get from someone who's been lying on his bed most of the time) but at some features, he was almost the same as Wren. While the mystery surrounding his illness and the lonely setting of the manor created a frightening sense of peril, I adored the slow-burn romance.
That being so, here comes the most intriguing character: Lord Lawry. One reclusive and anxious man, who might also give you the best creep. I was contented when Wren was invited by him to the mansion, ready for her redemption arc; assuming he was nice and trustworthy. However, as Allison Saft unfolds the narrative, doubt creeps in, making you question his character for his peculiar and suspicious nature — a transformation I particularly appreciate witnessing from the beginning to the end of the book.
The world-building in this story is decent but the magic system, fusing it with science made it compelling. I enjoy reading Wren treating all her patients with her magic. I just wished that the author could give me more variation in Wren's magic as I believe, healing isn’t her only strength (as was stated earlier) but was not executed here.
As a whole, Allison Saft transports her readers to a world that is both dangerously enticing and courageously hopeful. I couldn't look away for a second, my stomach churning with a never-ending sense of dread. This is a story that will captivate you, from the smart characters to the multi-sensory scenery. It was just a bit downer that I find the ending a bit rushed.
Nevertheless, I believe this is still a successful debut and I can't wait to read more from Allison Saft. And now I understand why the author dedicated this book:
"to all the girls who feel too much"Although I don't really fall into the category, I believe those who do would relate to Wren and feel heard.
August 28, 2020
I’ve had a hard time trying to rate this book. I did not like the beginning of the book. In my opinion, this is just a murder mystery. There is a castle and it had the opportunity to be a gothic story but it just wasn’t.
I love the name Wren and was so excited for this book. Wren was an idiot during the beginning of the book. I guess it was the 30% mark it started to get relatively interesting. And I love the cover!
I enjoyed Wren more when she was at the castle taking care of Hal. I enjoyed the slow burn little romance but it was mostly a let down for me. I will say the ending was good and that made me happy.
I’m in the minority as most people love this book so you need to read it and make up your own mind.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for a digital copy of this book.
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
I love the name Wren and was so excited for this book. Wren was an idiot during the beginning of the book. I guess it was the 30% mark it started to get relatively interesting. And I love the cover!
I enjoyed Wren more when she was at the castle taking care of Hal. I enjoyed the slow burn little romance but it was mostly a let down for me. I will say the ending was good and that made me happy.
I’m in the minority as most people love this book so you need to read it and make up your own mind.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for a digital copy of this book.
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
April 2, 2021
Niece of the Queen, Wren Southerland has always felt herself a burden.
Her parents are gone, her family is gone (except the Queen) so she realized pretty early on that she needed to make herself useful to gain any sort of recognition. And so she did.
Wren is the most talented healer but despite her power, she's constantly being driven away from the Queen and from her career.
She's too emotional - more likely to heal a prisoner than continue his capture. Her most recent incident (where she kinda-sorta is the reason that an important prisoner escaped) sends her back to the abbey, where she would likely be shut away forever.
But then, a letter arrives Colwick Hall. Lowry, a lord, is requesting her assistance with a diseased manservant. She (against her Queen's wishes) (and against her best-friend-almost-girlfriend's wishes) packs up her bags to go help.
But when she arrives, she realizes that Hal Cavendish is the servant. The same man whose murdered thousands of her people.
She's trapped in the snowy mountains with a murderer...but soon realizes something even more sinister is just around the corner.
Overall thoughts: this was a deeply atmospheric book. It was gorgeously rich in details and imagery.
I liked Wren from the start and while she did get a little woe-is-me, she was overall a good main character.
I enjoyed the blossoming romance between Wren and her best-friend-almost-girlfirend but the author did cut the relationship short (but it made sense in the long run).
The relationship between Wren and Hal was really well done - I loved how Hal was so human despite the atrocities.
The plot felt unexpected and exciting. The last 25% - oooo! I was hooked. As each reveal was given, and more dimension provided to the evil....it was good. VERY good!
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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June 3, 2021
2.5 stars
A whirlwind romantic fantasy with forces at play that are darker than what meets the eye, Down Comes the Night follows Wren, a soldier with healing magic whose life changes when she once again makes the mistake of letting her emotions get in the way of her job. In an attempt to save her life as she knows it and her country, she accepts employment from a mysterious foreign lord, leading her to meet her country’s enemy and fall into a dark plot where they must work together to save their kingdoms. While promising everything from a delectable gothic setting to a romance full of yearning worth rooting for, Down Comes the Night ultimately fell a bit short for me.
First of all, I think if you love beautiful writing, you will really appreciate the prose of this book. There were times, especially at the beginning, where there were endless paragraphs of extensive descriptions that bogged down the story, but it got better over time as more action happened. The details in Saft’s writing are vivid and luscious, and help make the creepy atmosphere feel more palpable, especially in parts where such atmosphere was lacking.
At the forefront of this book is Wren, who grapples with self-acceptance and handling her own emotions. I loved how throughout the story, she also had to decide what (or who) was good for her and what she needed for her personal fulfillment. Her arc involves themes regarding emotional strength and what that actually means, especially for women whose emotions are always dictated and scrutinized. While empowering and overall well-written, sometimes those messages were too on the nose for me, to the point where it got a bit annoying. Hal’s character was also interesting to me, particularly in how he carries the weighty legacy of war and struggles to meet the desires of a people desperate for salvation. It is this that makes Down Comes the Night compelling: its study of characters being forced to grow up in the shade of war, of what is deemed monstrous and what constitutes as strength and what deserves kindness, when war has a tight grasp on your identity and your life.
One of my main issues with Down Comes the Night, though, was that I didn’t care for the romance—the book started off strong but as it began to focus more on Wren and Hal’s relationship, it fell flat for me. I honestly didn’t feel the yearning between them, and while I thought they had a great dynamic, I felt that they would have been better off as friends. And because the romance was such a significant part of the plot and I felt so indifferent about it, this unfortunately tainted my opinion of the book as a whole.
Another major issue for me was that this was marketed as a gothic fantasy, and while there were creepy gothic vibes, it definitely was not as much as I was expecting. I actually enjoyed the book a lot when it delved into some more sinister things (such as exploring the mysterious house) or took on a darker atmosphere (as it did in the beginning), but for the most part, I wanted more. And I think part of the reason why this lacked the creepier quality I was looking for was because this book kind of just went all over the place—there was an ongoing war plus people disappearing plus a mysterious mansion plus a strange sickness; the expected gothic atmosphere would have been a lot more evident if the book had felt less chaotic, in my opinion.
While Down Comes the Night doesn’t live up to everything it promises, lacking in both its romance and atmosphere, it was still relatively enjoyable for me and explored interesting ideas. I’m not sure I would recommend this, because I honestly feel more indifferent about it than any other extreme feeling, but definitely go into this book with adjusted expectations about its supposed gothic-ness if you decide to pick it up, and hopefully you will find more enjoyment in its romance—and therefore the book as a whole—than I did.
—★—
:: representation :: bisexual MC, Black wlw side character
:: content warnings :: war, murder, gore, descriptions of medical/surgical procedures, depictions of blood
A whirlwind romantic fantasy with forces at play that are darker than what meets the eye, Down Comes the Night follows Wren, a soldier with healing magic whose life changes when she once again makes the mistake of letting her emotions get in the way of her job. In an attempt to save her life as she knows it and her country, she accepts employment from a mysterious foreign lord, leading her to meet her country’s enemy and fall into a dark plot where they must work together to save their kingdoms. While promising everything from a delectable gothic setting to a romance full of yearning worth rooting for, Down Comes the Night ultimately fell a bit short for me.
“Mercy is the most difficult thing.”
First of all, I think if you love beautiful writing, you will really appreciate the prose of this book. There were times, especially at the beginning, where there were endless paragraphs of extensive descriptions that bogged down the story, but it got better over time as more action happened. The details in Saft’s writing are vivid and luscious, and help make the creepy atmosphere feel more palpable, especially in parts where such atmosphere was lacking.
At the forefront of this book is Wren, who grapples with self-acceptance and handling her own emotions. I loved how throughout the story, she also had to decide what (or who) was good for her and what she needed for her personal fulfillment. Her arc involves themes regarding emotional strength and what that actually means, especially for women whose emotions are always dictated and scrutinized. While empowering and overall well-written, sometimes those messages were too on the nose for me, to the point where it got a bit annoying. Hal’s character was also interesting to me, particularly in how he carries the weighty legacy of war and struggles to meet the desires of a people desperate for salvation. It is this that makes Down Comes the Night compelling: its study of characters being forced to grow up in the shade of war, of what is deemed monstrous and what constitutes as strength and what deserves kindness, when war has a tight grasp on your identity and your life.
War demanded sacrifices they were not prepared to give, the cost of which they could not understand. People like Hal shouldn’t have existed. Both Danu and Vesria created monsters the moment they stooped to recruiting children.
One of my main issues with Down Comes the Night, though, was that I didn’t care for the romance—the book started off strong but as it began to focus more on Wren and Hal’s relationship, it fell flat for me. I honestly didn’t feel the yearning between them, and while I thought they had a great dynamic, I felt that they would have been better off as friends. And because the romance was such a significant part of the plot and I felt so indifferent about it, this unfortunately tainted my opinion of the book as a whole.
Another major issue for me was that this was marketed as a gothic fantasy, and while there were creepy gothic vibes, it definitely was not as much as I was expecting. I actually enjoyed the book a lot when it delved into some more sinister things (such as exploring the mysterious house) or took on a darker atmosphere (as it did in the beginning), but for the most part, I wanted more. And I think part of the reason why this lacked the creepier quality I was looking for was because this book kind of just went all over the place—there was an ongoing war plus people disappearing plus a mysterious mansion plus a strange sickness; the expected gothic atmosphere would have been a lot more evident if the book had felt less chaotic, in my opinion.
“We all were raised to be cruel. It takes incredible strength to be kind in this world. To endure suffering instead of further it.”
While Down Comes the Night doesn’t live up to everything it promises, lacking in both its romance and atmosphere, it was still relatively enjoyable for me and explored interesting ideas. I’m not sure I would recommend this, because I honestly feel more indifferent about it than any other extreme feeling, but definitely go into this book with adjusted expectations about its supposed gothic-ness if you decide to pick it up, and hopefully you will find more enjoyment in its romance—and therefore the book as a whole—than I did.
—★—
:: representation :: bisexual MC, Black wlw side character
:: content warnings :: war, murder, gore, descriptions of medical/surgical procedures, depictions of blood
// buddy read with cath!
Thank you to Macmillan for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my opinion in any way.
All quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may differ in final publication.
February 19, 2021
↠ 4 stars
There's something about being trapped inside a crumbling mansion with your sworn enemy that can actually be so personal. After Wren Southerland is suspended from the queen's guard for her reckless actions, she travels to the estate of an enigmatic lord who's sought out her healing services for one of his servants. Upon her arrival, she discovers that the very person she's been tasked with healing is none other than Hal Cavendish, an enemy of the kingdom and of Wren herself. As the two grow closer, they uncover a sinister plot at work within the dilapidated estate connected to the very fate of their respective kingdoms.
This truly is a rich, gothic fantasy, that seemingly pulls you into its gravity from Wrens arrival at Colwick Hall. The setting is eerie and atmospheric, and an air of mystery is present that is palpable from the very start. To say this book felt like a dream would be putting it lightly. Maybe it's because I read this all in one sitting, but there is truly no way to describe the feeling of reading this from start to finish. The characters were witty and utterly hilarious, and the slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance kept me going during moments where things needed a spark. I think the magic system that the author presents is really fascinating, but there needed to be more explored within the world since it played such an integral part to the plot. The same could be said for the character background of Wren. You don't get the whole picture of who she is as a person or what drives her to do what she does beyond the events in the book. There are some key moments mentioned, but not thoroughly examined for my liking. A blanket statement for this book: it just needed more. I loved what was given, but if you look beyond the surface, it's clear that it's lacking something. The plot is altogether imaginative and I thoroughly enjoyed where everything ended up though. If you came here for enemies trapped in a mansion together and solving a mystery, look no further. This one doesn't disappoint.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warnings: gore, murder, implied torture, description of surgery and procedure
There's something about being trapped inside a crumbling mansion with your sworn enemy that can actually be so personal. After Wren Southerland is suspended from the queen's guard for her reckless actions, she travels to the estate of an enigmatic lord who's sought out her healing services for one of his servants. Upon her arrival, she discovers that the very person she's been tasked with healing is none other than Hal Cavendish, an enemy of the kingdom and of Wren herself. As the two grow closer, they uncover a sinister plot at work within the dilapidated estate connected to the very fate of their respective kingdoms.
This truly is a rich, gothic fantasy, that seemingly pulls you into its gravity from Wrens arrival at Colwick Hall. The setting is eerie and atmospheric, and an air of mystery is present that is palpable from the very start. To say this book felt like a dream would be putting it lightly. Maybe it's because I read this all in one sitting, but there is truly no way to describe the feeling of reading this from start to finish. The characters were witty and utterly hilarious, and the slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance kept me going during moments where things needed a spark. I think the magic system that the author presents is really fascinating, but there needed to be more explored within the world since it played such an integral part to the plot. The same could be said for the character background of Wren. You don't get the whole picture of who she is as a person or what drives her to do what she does beyond the events in the book. There are some key moments mentioned, but not thoroughly examined for my liking. A blanket statement for this book: it just needed more. I loved what was given, but if you look beyond the surface, it's clear that it's lacking something. The plot is altogether imaginative and I thoroughly enjoyed where everything ended up though. If you came here for enemies trapped in a mansion together and solving a mystery, look no further. This one doesn't disappoint.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warnings: gore, murder, implied torture, description of surgery and procedure
April 12, 2024
This reminded me too much of a Forgery of roses and Belladonna. I feel like this idea was visited and revisited way too many times - and thus made this book very predictable for me
I really liked the dark, very grim setting.
But the romance though 🥺 it held such a tiny part but it was adorable 😭 if the book would’ve been more focussed on the romance (which is true enemies to lovers) - I would’ve enjoyed this more!
« I don’t care to believe that the sun of us is what we do »
———•
Pre read ; I wanted to reread the Bridgertons but my physical TBR said no😭
So I’ll be reading a few of my physical TBR and then I’ll treat myself to my favorite romance books of all time ❤️🔥
I really liked the dark, very grim setting.
But the romance though 🥺 it held such a tiny part but it was adorable 😭 if the book would’ve been more focussed on the romance (which is true enemies to lovers) - I would’ve enjoyed this more!
« I don’t care to believe that the sun of us is what we do »
———•
Pre read ; I wanted to reread the Bridgertons but my physical TBR said no😭
So I’ll be reading a few of my physical TBR and then I’ll treat myself to my favorite romance books of all time ❤️🔥
March 2, 2021
Happy Pub Day! Now available to purchase.
"Whatever is done unto you, let it be repaid thrice over."
Gothic fantasy, romance, a murder mystery, what else could you possibly want from a book? The enemies-to-lovers and forbidden romance tropes are my absolute favorites in the romance world, and this book has both. *chef's kiss* What starts as a misfit trying to avoid being sent to an abby for the remainder of her life quickly turns into Wren realizing that she might have bitten off more than she can chew in caring for Hal. As is usually the case, not all is as it originally appeared, and both of our main characters have to come to terms with the fact that everything they thought they knew isn't exactly the truth. I loved journeying alongside of Hal and Wren, as the mystery was engaging, the romance was an added reprieve from some of the heavier moments, and the atmosphere was dark and oppressive in the best way. My only concern is that I wish we had seen a little more into the magic system and Wren's life before the first page of the book, as both of these play an integral role in the plot's progression. If you enjoy romantic, gothic YA fantasy, you need to read this book. I'll be eagerly awaiting Allison Saft's next release!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
"Whatever is done unto you, let it be repaid thrice over."
Gothic fantasy, romance, a murder mystery, what else could you possibly want from a book? The enemies-to-lovers and forbidden romance tropes are my absolute favorites in the romance world, and this book has both. *chef's kiss* What starts as a misfit trying to avoid being sent to an abby for the remainder of her life quickly turns into Wren realizing that she might have bitten off more than she can chew in caring for Hal. As is usually the case, not all is as it originally appeared, and both of our main characters have to come to terms with the fact that everything they thought they knew isn't exactly the truth. I loved journeying alongside of Hal and Wren, as the mystery was engaging, the romance was an added reprieve from some of the heavier moments, and the atmosphere was dark and oppressive in the best way. My only concern is that I wish we had seen a little more into the magic system and Wren's life before the first page of the book, as both of these play an integral role in the plot's progression. If you enjoy romantic, gothic YA fantasy, you need to read this book. I'll be eagerly awaiting Allison Saft's next release!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
Want to read
June 30, 2020A DARK GOTHIC FANTASY REMINISCENT OF GUILLERMO DEL TORO (WITH A BISEXUAL MC AND LOTS OF PINING)?? YES I SAY, VERY MUCH YES
(this book is my literal brand)
edit: look at that cover, gothic vibes aboundddd
(this book is my literal brand)
edit: look at that cover, gothic vibes aboundddd
February 27, 2021
Check out this review (and more) over on my blog!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Quick Stats:
Overall: 5/5 Stars
Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot and Themes: 5/5
Awesomeness Factor: 5/5
Review in a Nutshell: Have you ever felt like a book was made for you? That is how I feel about Down Comes the Night.
// Content Warning: Violence, Death, Torture, Gore, Drugging Someone, War Themes, Murder, Kidnapping/Abduction, Medical Procedures //
Release Date: 3/2/2021
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Page Count: 400
Premise:
Down Comes the Night is a gothic YA fantasy following Wren, a powerful healer in the Queen’s Guard who is dismissed after she makes a decision the Queen deems “reckless”. But when she receives a letter from a Lord of a neighboring kingdom, she travels to his estate to heal his servant from a mysterious illness. But when she gets there, she discovers the servant is actually her kingdom’s most renowned enemy.
- Writing & Setting -
While this book is technically a fantasy standalone, it reads like a historical novel. Down Comes the Night has an atmospheric feel to it, ominous and foreboding. However, there’s still humor and levity within the darker tone. The world itself is beautifully crafted, with each kingdom complex and unique. I was absolutely fascinated with the magic system and would love more books in this world exploring it even further.
- Plot -
Even though I would love more books (or even just one more chapter… please?), Down Comes the Night works well as a standalone. All major plot points are perfectly wrapped up (without feeling too perfect, of course).
The plot itself is gripping and addictive, with the pacing perfectly fitting for the tone of the book. It starts slightly slower-paced but picks up towards the end as the stakes get higher and higher.
The romance and character development come first and foremost, but there’s also a great mystery unfolding as well. It’s not the most shocking, but there are still small twists thrown here and there that add to it.
- Characters -
The characters are what make this book special.
Wren is our central protagonist, and I loved her journey. In a world of YA fantasy books with unapologetically ruthless and fierce female protagonists, Wren’s empathy and kindness stands out. There’s a lot of discussion over whether her emotions make her weak, and if her empathy is a detriment, and I was so happy to see that. This book is dedicated to the “girls who feel too much” and I feel like it has such an important message.
But Wren isn’t the only one with a great journey. Hal is her enemy, a ruthless killer, or so Wren thinks. I absolutely adored him. I don’t want to say too much, because it’s best if you read it and find out for yourself, but I really enjoyed his character.
We also have some great side characters, all of them complex and with their own development.
Also, our main character is bi!! And the main romance in this book? Absolutely amazing. I loved their dynamic, and how they grew together. The angst, the fluff, the banter? Iconic.
- Conclusion -
Pros- great themes, amazing world, fantastic characters
Cons- can we please just get like, one more chapter? Please? I just love these characters
Overall- 5/5 stars.
Down Comes the Night is an unforgettable debut that I know I will be going back to reread again and again.
Follow Me Here: Blog ||Tumblr || Bookstagram || Twitter|| Reviews
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Quick Stats:
Overall: 5/5 Stars
Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot and Themes: 5/5
Awesomeness Factor: 5/5
Review in a Nutshell: Have you ever felt like a book was made for you? That is how I feel about Down Comes the Night.
// Content Warning: Violence, Death, Torture, Gore, Drugging Someone, War Themes, Murder, Kidnapping/Abduction, Medical Procedures //
Release Date: 3/2/2021
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Page Count: 400
Premise:
Down Comes the Night is a gothic YA fantasy following Wren, a powerful healer in the Queen’s Guard who is dismissed after she makes a decision the Queen deems “reckless”. But when she receives a letter from a Lord of a neighboring kingdom, she travels to his estate to heal his servant from a mysterious illness. But when she gets there, she discovers the servant is actually her kingdom’s most renowned enemy.
- Writing & Setting -
While this book is technically a fantasy standalone, it reads like a historical novel. Down Comes the Night has an atmospheric feel to it, ominous and foreboding. However, there’s still humor and levity within the darker tone. The world itself is beautifully crafted, with each kingdom complex and unique. I was absolutely fascinated with the magic system and would love more books in this world exploring it even further.
- Plot -
Even though I would love more books (or even just one more chapter… please?), Down Comes the Night works well as a standalone. All major plot points are perfectly wrapped up (without feeling too perfect, of course).
The plot itself is gripping and addictive, with the pacing perfectly fitting for the tone of the book. It starts slightly slower-paced but picks up towards the end as the stakes get higher and higher.
The romance and character development come first and foremost, but there’s also a great mystery unfolding as well. It’s not the most shocking, but there are still small twists thrown here and there that add to it.
- Characters -
The characters are what make this book special.
Wren is our central protagonist, and I loved her journey. In a world of YA fantasy books with unapologetically ruthless and fierce female protagonists, Wren’s empathy and kindness stands out. There’s a lot of discussion over whether her emotions make her weak, and if her empathy is a detriment, and I was so happy to see that. This book is dedicated to the “girls who feel too much” and I feel like it has such an important message.
But Wren isn’t the only one with a great journey. Hal is her enemy, a ruthless killer, or so Wren thinks. I absolutely adored him. I don’t want to say too much, because it’s best if you read it and find out for yourself, but I really enjoyed his character.
We also have some great side characters, all of them complex and with their own development.
Also, our main character is bi!! And the main romance in this book? Absolutely amazing. I loved their dynamic, and how they grew together. The angst, the fluff, the banter? Iconic.
- Conclusion -
Pros- great themes, amazing world, fantastic characters
Cons- can we please just get like, one more chapter? Please? I just love these characters
Overall- 5/5 stars.
Down Comes the Night is an unforgettable debut that I know I will be going back to reread again and again.
Follow Me Here: Blog ||Tumblr || Bookstagram || Twitter|| Reviews
May 1, 2021
dnf at 140 pages
I have been putting off this review for so long, simply because I don't know what to say about this book. The second I decided to give up on it, all memories regarding the characters, plot and even what I didn't like about it disappeared from my brain. What a great reviewer, right? But in the hopes of
a) retaining my Netgalley 80% reviewed books score and;
b) having the satisfaction of reviewing every book I read in 2021
I decided to suck it up and write this, with the help of some plot summaries and discussions from other goodreads users (thanks guys!).
Down Comes the Night chronicles the life of Wren Southerland who lives in a gothic fantasy world in the midst of an endless war. After being cast out from the Queen's guard, she is sent to a mansion with the purpose of using her special healing magic on one of the servants. However, she soon realises that this servant is Hal Cavendish- her enemy. From there, romance, mystery and magic ensues (allegedly- I didn't get that far to confirm)
I have been trying to look for some justifiable and legitimate reason for my abandonment of the book, but the honest truth is that I have none other than the fact that I was bored. I didn't necessarily have overly high expectations, but those I did have were a bit misleading. I personally didn't feel that eerie, gothic atmosphere or the angsty enemies-to-lovers promised. Instead, I was left wading through pages upon pages of confusing info-dumps of characters, places and history with nothing to anchor me to the story itself.
It is very well possible that if I continued on I would enjoy it more, but I just could not bring myself to push through it. Perhaps a few years from now I will get the urge to try it again and will end up appreciating the slow burn more. But for now, I am happy in placing this solidly in the Did Not Finish (and Probably Never Will) category.
That all being said, if you are interested in this book I wouldn't let this review necessarily put you off. I would recommend trying the first chapter or too before buying/borrowing it and seeing if you care for the writing and characters.
Thank you to St Martin's Press for this ARC
Release Date: 2 March 2021
I have been putting off this review for so long, simply because I don't know what to say about this book. The second I decided to give up on it, all memories regarding the characters, plot and even what I didn't like about it disappeared from my brain. What a great reviewer, right? But in the hopes of
a) retaining my Netgalley 80% reviewed books score and;
b) having the satisfaction of reviewing every book I read in 2021
I decided to suck it up and write this, with the help of some plot summaries and discussions from other goodreads users (thanks guys!).
Down Comes the Night chronicles the life of Wren Southerland who lives in a gothic fantasy world in the midst of an endless war. After being cast out from the Queen's guard, she is sent to a mansion with the purpose of using her special healing magic on one of the servants. However, she soon realises that this servant is Hal Cavendish- her enemy. From there, romance, mystery and magic ensues (allegedly- I didn't get that far to confirm)
I have been trying to look for some justifiable and legitimate reason for my abandonment of the book, but the honest truth is that I have none other than the fact that I was bored. I didn't necessarily have overly high expectations, but those I did have were a bit misleading. I personally didn't feel that eerie, gothic atmosphere or the angsty enemies-to-lovers promised. Instead, I was left wading through pages upon pages of confusing info-dumps of characters, places and history with nothing to anchor me to the story itself.
It is very well possible that if I continued on I would enjoy it more, but I just could not bring myself to push through it. Perhaps a few years from now I will get the urge to try it again and will end up appreciating the slow burn more. But for now, I am happy in placing this solidly in the Did Not Finish (and Probably Never Will) category.
That all being said, if you are interested in this book I wouldn't let this review necessarily put you off. I would recommend trying the first chapter or too before buying/borrowing it and seeing if you care for the writing and characters.
Thank you to St Martin's Press for this ARC
Release Date: 2 March 2021
Read
February 14, 2023Hello! Just popping in briefly to let you know that I have another YA fantasy romance coming out on March 8, 2022! If you enjoyed Down Comes the Night, you might also enjoy A Far Wilder Magic. I put together this graphic comparing the two.
Also, if you preorder A Far Wilder Magic and submit your receipt here, I’ll send you an epilogue of Down Comes the Night (as soon as it’s finished), along with some art. Thanks, y’all!
Also, if you preorder A Far Wilder Magic and submit your receipt here, I’ll send you an epilogue of Down Comes the Night (as soon as it’s finished), along with some art. Thanks, y’all!
March 12, 2021
2.5 stars
Not a bad book per se, it just wasn't for me rtc
Not a bad book per se, it just wasn't for me rtc
September 17, 2023
Sigh.
This book sure lacked an atmosphere.
Yet reviews are so useful, because if I hadn't started
Down Comes the Night
knowing that I shouldn't expect any kind of Gothic undertone, I might have been even more disappointed, as reviewers before me were. Our mind is a complex thing, and ripped of undue expectations, it allows pleasure to blossom, sometimes.
As it is, however, the door opened by my low anticipation wasn't enough to revolutionize my reading experience and make a success out of it. I'll get to why in a minute.
✨ We love to see the story of a healer, don't we?
Down Comes the Night follows Wren, illegitimate niece of the Queen and military healer , and at first, I was enchanted by her. I loved that we got the story of a healer, which is - or seems, in my limited knowledge - rarer that stories of fierce warriors and clever politicians. Healers are often the kind, gentle secondary characters, and I appreciated that for once, one stole the lights, you know? Wren isn't our perfect character, either, but you should know by now that those annoy me : she was reckless at times, yes, but who can judge her? It's not like she's swimming in choices, really. Okay, there were one or two times during which I reaaaaally struggled to get on board with her decisions but I was willing to be lenient. Because above everything, I loved how empathetic she was and I thought that the discussions around what it means to be strong and how listening to our emotions isn't the antithesis some think it is were well done.
Having been raised around people who believe that being emotional is a weakness, Wren struggles with self-acceptance, and her unrequited love for her best-friend, Una, whose whole personality relies on her need to follow orders, doesn't help. I don't know if we're supposed to root for them as a couple at first, but let me tell you, it was painful to watch. Upset on Wren's behalf, I could never warm to Una, which was a good thing in the long run but which still let a bad taste in my mouth. I just - couldn't stand how Una dismissed Wren's feelings every time, and so I couldn't feel any kind of connection between them, unfortunately, which is a shame, really, because I loved that Wren was bisexual.
✨ Great potential, failed execution
But the downfall of Down Comes the Night lies in the way it tries to do so much and ends making a mess of everything. I mean, we have:
▪ a war between to countries we barely know anything about, because the world-building was thin at best ;
▪ a disappearance/murder investigation that had potential but ended up in a fishtail ;
▪ an enemies-to-lovers romance that was... nice? Maybe? - but that didn't fully work, in my opinion ;
▪ an old house that never conveyed the Gothic atmosphere it was chasing.
First let's talk about the world-building and let me tell you : it's painfully lacking.
▪ We know that Danu , Wren's country, has been at war forever with its neighbor, Vesria. Some people have magic and others don't, because *genetics*. People there worship a goddess in an abbey, and if you're a healer you're actually faced with two choices : working in the military or be a nun or something. The country's kinda smelly, and its soldiers wear a black uniform Wren likes very much, especially the black boots. Its Queen, Isabel, is Wren's aunt and wants to go to war again because that's what's expected from her, I guess.
▪ As for Vesria , Hal - the second half of our romantic pair-'s country, it also has magic and it's led by very corrupt and war mongering politicians, which is truly ground-breaking. They also have a god, but theirs is a god of death, which is fitting, if I might say. Hal says it's "white", whatever that means (he was talking about the buildings? I think?).
▪ Finally, in Cernos , there are mountains, snow, not magic but electricity (oh yeah, there isn't electricity in the other countries because they only care about magic, not science) and the creepy house of a creepy man Wren keeps asking herself why she's creeped out by (you guessed right: because he's creepy).
Ta-da! It's quite an endeavor to be all over the place and insufficient at the same time , and I wasn't convinced.
As for the mystery, it grappled me alright, and for a time there I thought that it'd be the book's saving grace. Too bad it all fizzled out when I realized that the obvious choice was the only choice at all.
Now, the romance. Sigh. It wasn't a total failure, and my treasonous heart did quicken a bit at some point, but it was still disappointing. I'm gonna be plain, but if you want me to believe in a relationship, especially when half of the pair is an alleged mass murderer, you're gonna have to help me a little and give me something. The whole thing - starting with their meeting - was anticlimactic , to be honest, and Hal's portrayal reeked a bit too much of "mass murderers can be soft, cute boys too". The thing is, Hal was never Wren's enemy. Her country's, absolutely, but he never disliked her at all, and as far as I'm concerned, the tension this particular trope usually creates just wasn't there. It felt lazy, to be honest.
It doesn't mean that I disliked Hal's character, though. I could understand his descent into self-hate and the way he evolves, after having been groomed as a killer since his childhood (he's only 19, after all). As a character it's an arc I can go behind and even appreciate, but as a love interest? I need more.
It's just - sigh. I thought we were past "war is bad and make monsters out of men" , but that's probably my inner optimist talking. I do appreciate the shift young adult fiction has undertaken these past few years, because I sure remember a time when main characters were revered for being soldiers without any kind of reflection put upon it. This is good. This is great. This is something so self evident for this reader that it's boring, but who am I to say that it's not needed anymore? It's just - I really don't need pages and pages of pseudo-philosophical rhetoric to come to the conclusion that war in particular and the military in general are the worst but again, I'm not the target audience. If that's what it takes, then it's alright, I guess. All the same, it feels too tenuous a thread to withstand the whole book's weight, if you ask me.
✨Bottom Line
Still I liked Allison Saft's writing, and will check out her books in the future, because there's potential in Down Comes the Night . It wasn't enough, but it was there. 2,5 stars tentatively rounded up.
CW :
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As it is, however, the door opened by my low anticipation wasn't enough to revolutionize my reading experience and make a success out of it. I'll get to why in a minute.
✨ We love to see the story of a healer, don't we?
Down Comes the Night follows Wren, illegitimate niece of the Queen and military healer , and at first, I was enchanted by her. I loved that we got the story of a healer, which is - or seems, in my limited knowledge - rarer that stories of fierce warriors and clever politicians. Healers are often the kind, gentle secondary characters, and I appreciated that for once, one stole the lights, you know? Wren isn't our perfect character, either, but you should know by now that those annoy me : she was reckless at times, yes, but who can judge her? It's not like she's swimming in choices, really. Okay, there were one or two times during which I reaaaaally struggled to get on board with her decisions but I was willing to be lenient. Because above everything, I loved how empathetic she was and I thought that the discussions around what it means to be strong and how listening to our emotions isn't the antithesis some think it is were well done.
Having been raised around people who believe that being emotional is a weakness, Wren struggles with self-acceptance, and her unrequited love for her best-friend, Una, whose whole personality relies on her need to follow orders, doesn't help. I don't know if we're supposed to root for them as a couple at first, but let me tell you, it was painful to watch. Upset on Wren's behalf, I could never warm to Una, which was a good thing in the long run but which still let a bad taste in my mouth. I just - couldn't stand how Una dismissed Wren's feelings every time, and so I couldn't feel any kind of connection between them, unfortunately, which is a shame, really, because I loved that Wren was bisexual.
✨ Great potential, failed execution
But the downfall of Down Comes the Night lies in the way it tries to do so much and ends making a mess of everything. I mean, we have:
▪ a war between to countries we barely know anything about, because the world-building was thin at best ;
▪ a disappearance/murder investigation that had potential but ended up in a fishtail ;
▪ an enemies-to-lovers romance that was... nice? Maybe? - but that didn't fully work, in my opinion ;
▪ an old house that never conveyed the Gothic atmosphere it was chasing.
First let's talk about the world-building and let me tell you : it's painfully lacking.
▪ We know that Danu , Wren's country, has been at war forever with its neighbor, Vesria. Some people have magic and others don't, because *genetics*. People there worship a goddess in an abbey, and if you're a healer you're actually faced with two choices : working in the military or be a nun or something. The country's kinda smelly, and its soldiers wear a black uniform Wren likes very much, especially the black boots. Its Queen, Isabel, is Wren's aunt and wants to go to war again because that's what's expected from her, I guess.
▪ As for Vesria , Hal - the second half of our romantic pair-'s country, it also has magic and it's led by very corrupt and war mongering politicians, which is truly ground-breaking. They also have a god, but theirs is a god of death, which is fitting, if I might say. Hal says it's "white", whatever that means (he was talking about the buildings? I think?).
▪ Finally, in Cernos , there are mountains, snow, not magic but electricity (oh yeah, there isn't electricity in the other countries because they only care about magic, not science) and the creepy house of a creepy man Wren keeps asking herself why she's creeped out by (you guessed right: because he's creepy).
Ta-da! It's quite an endeavor to be all over the place and insufficient at the same time , and I wasn't convinced.
As for the mystery, it grappled me alright, and for a time there I thought that it'd be the book's saving grace. Too bad it all fizzled out when I realized that the obvious choice was the only choice at all.
Now, the romance. Sigh. It wasn't a total failure, and my treasonous heart did quicken a bit at some point, but it was still disappointing. I'm gonna be plain, but if you want me to believe in a relationship, especially when half of the pair is an alleged mass murderer, you're gonna have to help me a little and give me something. The whole thing - starting with their meeting - was anticlimactic , to be honest, and Hal's portrayal reeked a bit too much of "mass murderers can be soft, cute boys too". The thing is, Hal was never Wren's enemy. Her country's, absolutely, but he never disliked her at all, and as far as I'm concerned, the tension this particular trope usually creates just wasn't there. It felt lazy, to be honest.
It doesn't mean that I disliked Hal's character, though. I could understand his descent into self-hate and the way he evolves, after having been groomed as a killer since his childhood (he's only 19, after all). As a character it's an arc I can go behind and even appreciate, but as a love interest? I need more.
It's just - sigh. I thought we were past "war is bad and make monsters out of men" , but that's probably my inner optimist talking. I do appreciate the shift young adult fiction has undertaken these past few years, because I sure remember a time when main characters were revered for being soldiers without any kind of reflection put upon it. This is good. This is great. This is something so self evident for this reader that it's boring, but who am I to say that it's not needed anymore? It's just - I really don't need pages and pages of pseudo-philosophical rhetoric to come to the conclusion that war in particular and the military in general are the worst but again, I'm not the target audience. If that's what it takes, then it's alright, I guess. All the same, it feels too tenuous a thread to withstand the whole book's weight, if you ask me.
✨Bottom Line
Still I liked Allison Saft's writing, and will check out her books in the future, because there's potential in Down Comes the Night . It wasn't enough, but it was there. 2,5 stars tentatively rounded up.
CW :
For more of my reviews, please visit :
July 1, 2022
“She wasn’t weak for feeling. Hardened hearts were breakable. But hers had endured again and again”
2.5 stars.
I think the biggest issue with this book was the marketing. Or really, it's just how it was presented to me and the rest of those readers I see anticipating the release of this book. This book isn't bad, but it's not great either. Goodreads says two stars means it's okay and really, this was okay. Down Comes the Night felt more young adult-y (in all its trope-y young adult-y ways) than what I was expecting: a slow-burn, gothic, enemies to lovers. This book was none of those things. For someone who enjoys young adult novels, especially the fantasy kind, you'll probably really enjoy this. However, if you're looking for a delicious gothic tale that leaves you claustrophobic and scared with some romance mixed in ... this isn't it.
My other gripe with this book was how long it was. I would have shaved off at least a hundred pages, easily. So little happened in so many pages that I considered skimming the book instead, but stopped myself and kept waiting for the book to pick up. It sort of did but nearly towards the end which, for me, was too little too late.
We start the story with Wren Southerland, a healer in the queen's army. Her and her commander, Una, are on a mission trying to find any information regarding fellow soldiers who have gone missing while on patrol on a border shared with a neighboring country they're on rocky relations with (and have previously gone to war with). Wren has always tried to prove herself to the queen but her compassion has often led her to choices that have left her on thin ice. While I admire compassion and a kind heart (something the book really wants you to know is so important), I have to say that the book didn't really start off too great for me. Wren's empathy or whatever we want to call it is important, but as a member of the army, should be balanced with rationale, which we see none of. I get it, the message is to be kind no matter what, that kindness is a strength, not a weakness but it's a little too in your face and kind of impractical. Or just a little bit far-fetched. Not to mention how this soft-heartedness is contrasted in a way to make another character's (Una, my favorite and the true gem in this book) less "emotional" demeanor look really bad.
Now, after making yet another bad decision, Wren is taken off the guard. An opportunity arises where Wren believes she can prove her worth to the queen and get reinstated, yet when she gets there, nothing is as it seems. When she gets to the house that has requested her services as a healer, she finds the place eerie, cold, full of odd noises at night, and worst of all, harboring her country's most notorious enemy, war criminal Hal Cavndish. To make matters worse, he's who she's been asked to heal.
It is important to note that when this book mentions heal, it doesn't mean healing in the traditional sense but in a magical sense. There's magic in this universe, some are able to heal with it, other to kill and ... some other stuff I'm assuming that isn't really delved into. That's the other thing, I wasn't expecting there to be any magic and that definitely changed the tone of the novel for me. When I saw healer in the synopsis, I thought it meant healer like a medic. This might have been my bad, but with this added element of magic, this book felt more fantasy than gothic novel. I would have liked to have known more about the universe and how the magic works exactly, but this isn't really expounded upon.
Actual meaningful interactions between Hal and Wren are scarce, yet we're supposed to buy that how they start to grow, understand, even care for each other. I just didn't feel it. Wren's behavior towards Hal is downright confusing and frustrating. He even calls her out on it.
“I can’t figure out what you want from me.” He sounded almost anguished, but his eyes still held accusation. “If I keep my distance, you needle me. If I’m vulnerable, you burn me.”
She's mostly awful to Hal, with the occasional "kindness" when she ... you know, doesn't kill him when she could. That's really it. It's frustrating because every time you think a step or two towards trust or some sort of progress is being made, Wren says or does something that takes us three steps back. This is especially confusing to read because we've been constantly told how compassionate and loving and soft-hearted Wren is. I felt nothing for the two of them, although I was slightly intrigued by Hal as a character. (Once again, Una is the unsung hero of this novel.)
The only gothic part of this book is the setting sort of but it's only a fraction of the story. This feels more like a mystery than a gothic novel. I was under the impression I'd be reading a slow burn with forced situations where two enemies had to work together, only having each other to rely on and begrudgingly trust. Instead, we get I think one instance where that happens and it's very brief.
At the end of the day, the idea was interesting but I think the execution just didn't work out for me.
Please note that I received an advance reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2021
what a hauntingly beautiful, captivating book. rtc.
February 26, 2021
This debut was a great read! The start was good with the bit of torture love. Hurt to love someone at a distant where that person doesn't return the love. The magic was good, though only two were present; one to kill and one to heal. The main character could be relatable to many readers, myself included, especially when it came to tears spilling out without control. I like Wren's curious minds and despite some sounds made at night that anyone might get scared as ghosts, she would hurry to investigate. The slow burning romance is torture! I wish I can read Hal's and Una's thoughts. This story is modern in a way that Wren is bisexual, where she's attracted to girls and guys.
This book followed Wren, healer and Queen's Guard, told in the third person point of view, as she and her best friend Una, 18 and Wren's superior, out for three weeks in the bitter cold looking for the missing guards who disappeared while out on patrols. They caught a guy with a notebook that noted the names of the missing guards but he got injured. Being a healer, Wren couldn't help but healed him and once he got his strength back he got away. Now Wren and Una has to answer Queen Isabel about why they let their only lead to the missing guards escaped. The Queen suspended Wren to the mines to heal the miners, but to go there is to have no chance at becoming a guard again. Instead, Wren chose a different path, one that her friend Una might called reckless and the Queen wouldn't approve. This new path, at least Wren has a bit of freedom to decide for herself, even though she might came face to face with the enemy named Hal, 19, a reaper and so-called monster.
Down Comes the Night was an actions and adventurous read! I couldn't put down a few times and read late into the night. There was an intense bit of reading where Wren went looking after the sounds that people might mistaken for ghosts and the medical bits to healing wounds. It's interesting how young adults are portrayed as being responsible enough to put their country before their own indulgence. Because of LGBT genre, I was hoping for the happy ending to be with a girl, but, well.. The read was still good. I do recommend everyone to read this book!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
Many thanks to Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read and review.
This book followed Wren, healer and Queen's Guard, told in the third person point of view, as she and her best friend Una, 18 and Wren's superior, out for three weeks in the bitter cold looking for the missing guards who disappeared while out on patrols. They caught a guy with a notebook that noted the names of the missing guards but he got injured. Being a healer, Wren couldn't help but healed him and once he got his strength back he got away. Now Wren and Una has to answer Queen Isabel about why they let their only lead to the missing guards escaped. The Queen suspended Wren to the mines to heal the miners, but to go there is to have no chance at becoming a guard again. Instead, Wren chose a different path, one that her friend Una might called reckless and the Queen wouldn't approve. This new path, at least Wren has a bit of freedom to decide for herself, even though she might came face to face with the enemy named Hal, 19, a reaper and so-called monster.
Down Comes the Night was an actions and adventurous read! I couldn't put down a few times and read late into the night. There was an intense bit of reading where Wren went looking after the sounds that people might mistaken for ghosts and the medical bits to healing wounds. It's interesting how young adults are portrayed as being responsible enough to put their country before their own indulgence. Because of LGBT genre, I was hoping for the happy ending to be with a girl, but, well.. The read was still good. I do recommend everyone to read this book!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
Many thanks to Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read and review.
Shelved as 'dnf-zone'
January 23, 2021DNF 10% | 5/10/2020
I can’t believe I’m doing this after all the anticipation and excitement...but I am. I can’t believe I even got an arc to begin with and I feel way more guilty than I should, but what can I do.
It’s the second time this year that a YA fantasy with these gothic vibes ends up on my most anticipated reads because of an intriguing dark synopsis, and then I end up really disliking it and being unable to read the entire thing.
I can’t say with certainty if the Guillermo del Toro vibes are there since I couldn’t get past the first few chapters, and I’m disappointed big time. Who knows, maybe the inspiration was there but it’s the rest of the writing that ruined everything for me. Let’s go into what I really disliked:
- The main character isn’t even introduced that she immediately does a dumb eye roll-worthy thing. I started with her and then I kept rolling my eyes every few sentences.
- The style is too juvenile for my tastes, I don’t think I would have liked it even when I was a teenager myself. It’s not only the actual writing of the dialogues, it’s also the way the drama is constructed.
- The magic-science wasn’t as great as it sounded, it was pretty basic for a YA of this caliber. To me it was nothing to get excited about.
So here it is. I hope people love this book when it comes out and that it simply wasn’t for me.
I received an advanced reader copy through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
******
Book description: a dark gothic fantasy with Guillermo del Toro vibes, enemies-to-lovers and a bi main character
Me: ummm... YES PLEASE?
*cover is revealed*
Me: such bEAUTY
Author: this book has lots of pining, enemies-to-lovers romance, magic that feels like science, sickly Victorian lads, a bi heroine, an only-one-bed debacle, and a sinister, snowy setting
Me: THIS BOOK IS GONNA KILL ME ON THE SPOT
I can’t believe I’m doing this after all the anticipation and excitement...but I am. I can’t believe I even got an arc to begin with and I feel way more guilty than I should, but what can I do.
It’s the second time this year that a YA fantasy with these gothic vibes ends up on my most anticipated reads because of an intriguing dark synopsis, and then I end up really disliking it and being unable to read the entire thing.
I can’t say with certainty if the Guillermo del Toro vibes are there since I couldn’t get past the first few chapters, and I’m disappointed big time. Who knows, maybe the inspiration was there but it’s the rest of the writing that ruined everything for me. Let’s go into what I really disliked:
- The main character isn’t even introduced that she immediately does a dumb eye roll-worthy thing. I started with her and then I kept rolling my eyes every few sentences.
- The style is too juvenile for my tastes, I don’t think I would have liked it even when I was a teenager myself. It’s not only the actual writing of the dialogues, it’s also the way the drama is constructed.
- The magic-science wasn’t as great as it sounded, it was pretty basic for a YA of this caliber. To me it was nothing to get excited about.
So here it is. I hope people love this book when it comes out and that it simply wasn’t for me.
I received an advanced reader copy through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
******
Book description: a dark gothic fantasy with Guillermo del Toro vibes, enemies-to-lovers and a bi main character
Me: ummm... YES PLEASE?
*cover is revealed*
Me: such bEAUTY
Author: this book has lots of pining, enemies-to-lovers romance, magic that feels like science, sickly Victorian lads, a bi heroine, an only-one-bed debacle, and a sinister, snowy setting
Me: THIS BOOK IS GONNA KILL ME ON THE SPOT
October 19, 2021
"Without justice, we have nothing.”
“Justice got us here. Justice will kill us all.”
“So what do you propose instead?”
“Forgiveness.”
A perfect enemies to lovers, with just enough fantasy, betrayal, scheming and plot twists. I've been reading a lot of series lately, so finding a stand-alone that actually caught me, with well-written action and characters, with proper and natural relationships and amazing females, was a delight.
"She would be just Wren. Nothing.
But she was still here. Still alive and breathing and fighting, even when she’d been stripped of the one thing she believed defined her. It shook something loose in her. Was this what Hal felt, too, when it happened? Fear that bloomed into acceptance—into relief? She was not her magic. Her worth—her existence—was more than the sum of her talents. Being just Wren was enough."
The story revolves around Wren Southerland, bastard niece of the Queen of Danu and extremely skilled healer. She starts as a member of the Royal Guard, investigating some disappearances near the border with Vesria, the rival kingdom, with whom they have a precarious peace. When Wren allows her compassion to trick her into loosing a lead, the Queen sends her to an abbey, separating her from her best friend Una, who also happens to be her commander and the girl she loves. Trying to win back her aunt's favour, she accepts a mission from Lord Lowry, an eccentric nobleman from their neighbor kingdom, Cernos. In exchange for healing his servant, she would receive military support and an alliance for her country in the war that is said to unavoidably ignite, thus proving her aunt she is worthy of her respect and recognition. The only problem is that, once arrived at Lord Lowry's estate, the servant she is supposed to treat turns out to be none other than Hal Cavendish, the famous Reaper of Vesria, wanted for war crimes in Danu and feared by everyone. This triggers a series of events where slow-burn romance, lies, betrayals and "the one bed trope" share the spotlight.
“Why don’t you lie down?”
Conflict burned in his eyes, like he couldn’t decide if he was repulsed or fascinated by her. For the first time, he looked like the nineteen-year-old boy he was. “With you?”
“Goddess above,” she groaned. “Don’t say it like that. Come here.”
It's so great to find books that have it all... I mean:
✅enemies to lovers
“How many ways are we bad for one another?”
“You really want to count the ways?”
There may not bee a lot of snarky comments and banter, but Hal and Wren had one of the best enemies to lovers stories, all so natural and well written.
✅ great friendship
I loves the relationship between Una and Wren; they were so different and yet had an amazing connection.
✅ character development
You could see them evolving without loosing themselves...just reaching better versions of themselves.
✅ plot twists
“Working with me is treason.”
“Healing you was, too. What’s another betrayal for my growing list?”
I mean, enemies working together, alliances being forged and broken, promises and lies... you get a bit of everything.
✅ nice ending
I really enjoyed this book and I am definitely looking forward to other novels by Allison Saft. So, if you want some light fantasy with romance, a slight touch of spice and a bit of dark mystery, I thoroughly recommend this. 😉
“That’s all.”
“Then it’s a deal.” Treason, sealed with four words.
“Justice got us here. Justice will kill us all.”
“So what do you propose instead?”
“Forgiveness.”
A perfect enemies to lovers, with just enough fantasy, betrayal, scheming and plot twists. I've been reading a lot of series lately, so finding a stand-alone that actually caught me, with well-written action and characters, with proper and natural relationships and amazing females, was a delight.
"She would be just Wren. Nothing.
But she was still here. Still alive and breathing and fighting, even when she’d been stripped of the one thing she believed defined her. It shook something loose in her. Was this what Hal felt, too, when it happened? Fear that bloomed into acceptance—into relief? She was not her magic. Her worth—her existence—was more than the sum of her talents. Being just Wren was enough."
The story revolves around Wren Southerland, bastard niece of the Queen of Danu and extremely skilled healer. She starts as a member of the Royal Guard, investigating some disappearances near the border with Vesria, the rival kingdom, with whom they have a precarious peace. When Wren allows her compassion to trick her into loosing a lead, the Queen sends her to an abbey, separating her from her best friend Una, who also happens to be her commander and the girl she loves. Trying to win back her aunt's favour, she accepts a mission from Lord Lowry, an eccentric nobleman from their neighbor kingdom, Cernos. In exchange for healing his servant, she would receive military support and an alliance for her country in the war that is said to unavoidably ignite, thus proving her aunt she is worthy of her respect and recognition. The only problem is that, once arrived at Lord Lowry's estate, the servant she is supposed to treat turns out to be none other than Hal Cavendish, the famous Reaper of Vesria, wanted for war crimes in Danu and feared by everyone. This triggers a series of events where slow-burn romance, lies, betrayals and "the one bed trope" share the spotlight.
“Why don’t you lie down?”
Conflict burned in his eyes, like he couldn’t decide if he was repulsed or fascinated by her. For the first time, he looked like the nineteen-year-old boy he was. “With you?”
“Goddess above,” she groaned. “Don’t say it like that. Come here.”
It's so great to find books that have it all... I mean:
✅enemies to lovers
“How many ways are we bad for one another?”
“You really want to count the ways?”
There may not bee a lot of snarky comments and banter, but Hal and Wren had one of the best enemies to lovers stories, all so natural and well written.
✅ great friendship
I loves the relationship between Una and Wren; they were so different and yet had an amazing connection.
✅ character development
You could see them evolving without loosing themselves...just reaching better versions of themselves.
✅ plot twists
“Working with me is treason.”
“Healing you was, too. What’s another betrayal for my growing list?”
I mean, enemies working together, alliances being forged and broken, promises and lies... you get a bit of everything.
✅ nice ending
I really enjoyed this book and I am definitely looking forward to other novels by Allison Saft. So, if you want some light fantasy with romance, a slight touch of spice and a bit of dark mystery, I thoroughly recommend this. 😉
“That’s all.”
“Then it’s a deal.” Treason, sealed with four words.
March 6, 2021
the worldbuilding is senseless, the aesthetics muddled, and the heroine is a weenie whose arc ('what if my FEELINGS are not my WEAKNESS but my STRENGTH') is reproduced from every fantasy since the 80s, yet portrayed here with wide-eyed wonder by the author who has apparently never read another book. the plot, and the moral lines, are very obvious and the heroine is constantly asked to be stupid on purpose to let it keep going for another few pages. "surely that's not" she says, over and over, about things that Manifestly Are.
but the sentences here are mostly fine, which stands out in a bad climate for sentences, and honestly? i would throw the author a bone for how propulsively, intently horny the heroine—and the author—is for the love interest, and for the romantic premise. 'the erotic vulnerability of tending to the bedridden villain' isn't my favorite flavor of ao3 but it is clearly hers and she wrings every drop of tension and sensuality from the prompt with a focus that's absent elsewhere. she has to CONSTANTLY unbutton his thin shirt and take his heartbeat with her magic healing hands, etc. you get it.
but unfortunately i can't get into it because of the promise, undelivered, of a second romantic foil, the heroine's "ex girlfriend" with whom she is "still in complicated love". i scare-quote because: no she isn't, and no she isn't. the author has no interest whatsoever in that girl and the idea of them together, she writes their scenes with a grim disinterest behind the screen of "repression". to which i say, please. the other romance is also Repressed, and despite (because of!) that the heroine is constantly obsessively fixated on small sensual details: hands, hair, collarbones. before they so much as MEET she is dreaming of the villain's breath when she feels the chill wind on her neck. the gf gets, and i am not kidding, "we used to hold hands—once—in the times BEFORE."
the author says the book is ownvoices bi. fine, her life is not my problem. her writing is my problem and her marketing is my problem. talking about Representation in this book is intellectually dishonest marketing for a book that's straight to the bone (so wildly blinkeredly straight that the author seems to not have clocked she'd written a full-on gay-coded #problematique flamer villain straight out of the 80s: a useless aristocratic son denied the approval of his father, secluded in his haunted ancestral bachelor pad, given to overblown speeches and oversized ruby jewelry). it leaves a bad taste. just write your little soup boy and leave me out of it until you're ready to extend the gay girls the courtesy of describing—start with admitting the existence of—their desires.
oh and a last note: the boy is a 'war criminal' because i believe that's the fashionable designator for ya villain boys wearing black these days. this one
but the sentences here are mostly fine, which stands out in a bad climate for sentences, and honestly? i would throw the author a bone for how propulsively, intently horny the heroine—and the author—is for the love interest, and for the romantic premise. 'the erotic vulnerability of tending to the bedridden villain' isn't my favorite flavor of ao3 but it is clearly hers and she wrings every drop of tension and sensuality from the prompt with a focus that's absent elsewhere. she has to CONSTANTLY unbutton his thin shirt and take his heartbeat with her magic healing hands, etc. you get it.
but unfortunately i can't get into it because of the promise, undelivered, of a second romantic foil, the heroine's "ex girlfriend" with whom she is "still in complicated love". i scare-quote because: no she isn't, and no she isn't. the author has no interest whatsoever in that girl and the idea of them together, she writes their scenes with a grim disinterest behind the screen of "repression". to which i say, please. the other romance is also Repressed, and despite (because of!) that the heroine is constantly obsessively fixated on small sensual details: hands, hair, collarbones. before they so much as MEET she is dreaming of the villain's breath when she feels the chill wind on her neck. the gf gets, and i am not kidding, "we used to hold hands—once—in the times BEFORE."
the author says the book is ownvoices bi. fine, her life is not my problem. her writing is my problem and her marketing is my problem. talking about Representation in this book is intellectually dishonest marketing for a book that's straight to the bone (so wildly blinkeredly straight that the author seems to not have clocked she'd written a full-on gay-coded #problematique flamer villain straight out of the 80s: a useless aristocratic son denied the approval of his father, secluded in his haunted ancestral bachelor pad, given to overblown speeches and oversized ruby jewelry). it leaves a bad taste. just write your little soup boy and leave me out of it until you're ready to extend the gay girls the courtesy of describing—start with admitting the existence of—their desires.
oh and a last note: the boy is a 'war criminal' because i believe that's the fashionable designator for ya villain boys wearing black these days. this one
Want to read
May 12, 2020Even the synopsis is atmospheric! Gives me eerie and wintry chills! Oh 2021-Young Adult, please don’t let me down!!
August 31, 2021
wonderfully dark, emotional and beautiful. rtc.
June 10, 2021
Down Comes the Night by Allison Saft is a young adult romantic fantasy standalone novel with a gothic feel. In this story we meet Wren Southerland who isn’t exactly cut out to be a part of the Queen’s guard but that is where we join her out on patrol. When Wren’s group captures a prisoner Wren can’t control her own compassionate nature as she is a healer, not a fighter and when Wren heals the prisoner and her escapes she is sent back to the abbey.
Despite Wren being the niece of the queen she finds herself at a loss as to how she can fit in so when a letter arrives requesting her healing powers Wren thinks it’s the chance to get back into the Queen’s good graces. After arriving at the Lord’s manor Wren finds out that the servant that the Lord desperately wants healed is none other than Hal Cavendish, a wanted enemy of Wren’s people.
Down Comes the Night was a fantasy read that had it’s ups and downs for me but by the time it was over I did find it an interesting story. Wren had her moments all throughout that didn’t make her the strongest most compelling lead but she was likable enough and once with Hal the story seemed to pick up. Also, the plot at that point felt as if I were reading a mystery novel and was actually enjoyable to follow. By the time I was finished with this one I settled on a rating of three and a half stars and enjoyed the gothic twisty atmosphere of this fantasy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Despite Wren being the niece of the queen she finds herself at a loss as to how she can fit in so when a letter arrives requesting her healing powers Wren thinks it’s the chance to get back into the Queen’s good graces. After arriving at the Lord’s manor Wren finds out that the servant that the Lord desperately wants healed is none other than Hal Cavendish, a wanted enemy of Wren’s people.
Down Comes the Night was a fantasy read that had it’s ups and downs for me but by the time it was over I did find it an interesting story. Wren had her moments all throughout that didn’t make her the strongest most compelling lead but she was likable enough and once with Hal the story seemed to pick up. Also, the plot at that point felt as if I were reading a mystery novel and was actually enjoyable to follow. By the time I was finished with this one I settled on a rating of three and a half stars and enjoyed the gothic twisty atmosphere of this fantasy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 15, 2021
I really don't like leaving negative reviews. It's someone's labour of love, their baby, and I'm basically saying I hated it.
I can't help it, though, I need to rant! I've been ranting in my updates, in my ebook notes, and sending a friend far too many messages and quotes. But I still can't let it go...
I liked the blurb, liked the cover, had seen a couple of illustrations - I was really anticipating this book!
Unfortunately, there was little to nothing I liked about it. I liked the premise: a healer travels to a remote estate to heal someone, only to discover that the patient is her country's mortal enemy; they have to put their differences aside and solve a mystery (missing soldiers from both countries) to prevent another war between their countries. It sounds pretty great, if a little cliché.
I also liked that sexuality is a non-issue. Wren, the main character is bi and this is never seen as a problem in this world, which is great.
There's also the over-arching message that kindness is not a weakness, and Wren learns to accept this about herself. I'm afraid these were all the positives for me.
There were so many things that I didn't like, though. A lot can just be down to preference, but not all, I think.
The writing was too full of comparisons and metaphors for me. Some felt so forced and just plain weird. Here are the top ones:
"[she felt like] A rat in a gilded cage."
"Outside her room, there was complete, esophageal darkness, tight and swallowing."
"It tasted burnt and astringent, thick as thrush on her tongue."
"...her sleek braid swinging like a gallows rope."
"At [the tower's] heart, like the rotten pit of a fruit, was [his] cell."
"This was a wet cold [weather] that filled Wren's lungs like phlegm."
"...she could see a storm rolling off the sea, black as fog."
I wasn't impressed by the worldbuilding either - the countries don't really stand out from other fantasy countries, the magic doesn't stand out, the plot doesn't stand out. I didn't find anything unique or particularly convincing. I also had a hard time accepting the setting. Danu, Wren's country, is in a sort of Victorian era, where they have steam trains and photographs, but not electricity, like the more advanced (neutral) neighbour, Cernos. They have magic and advanced magical healing, but the rules and limits of this are never clear, so I found it jarring to see things like dialysis, DNA and intravenous drip thrown in casually in a 1850s-like setting.
I didn't get attached to any of the characters. Wren was good and kind, yes, but she was also extremely irritating. She spent years in an abbey to train as a healer, and for some reason hated the place and dreaded ever having to go back there. I imagined some sort of mental and/or physical abuse, so imagine my surprise when the only negative thing she could say about it was that she felt confined. The mother superior was always mentioned as this wise guiding figure.
Anyway, not a big deal all in all. Even Wren's penchant to ogle her unconscious patient (one time thinking "How tempting it was to touch him, simply because she could") wasn't her worst trait for me. I hate to say it, but Wren was the dumbest main character I've ever seen. Details in the spoilers below.
The other characters were just bland and flat, even Hal, the feared Reaper of Vesria, who could kill people with his magic just by making eye contact, and who had killed hundreds in the war between Vesria and Danu. We only see him as a very soft boy (he's nineteen), who was sort of groomed into his reaper role and now feels remorse and self-hatred.
So up to this point it can all be a matter of taste. I didn't like this, but great if others did.
What baffled me is that people could look past the plot - the constant dumb things the characters did, and how clueless they were. If that's how the author meant to portray them, OK, I didn't like it and I guess, this could also be a matter of preference. I don't expect genius characters, but I would like them to have a modicum of intelligence.
So here are the things in the plot/characters that drove me up the walls:
Rant over! Countless other little things that I didn't find believable at all, but I'll leave it at that.
No one is sorrier than I am that I didn't like this.
I can't help it, though, I need to rant! I've been ranting in my updates, in my ebook notes, and sending a friend far too many messages and quotes. But I still can't let it go...
I liked the blurb, liked the cover, had seen a couple of illustrations - I was really anticipating this book!
Unfortunately, there was little to nothing I liked about it. I liked the premise: a healer travels to a remote estate to heal someone, only to discover that the patient is her country's mortal enemy; they have to put their differences aside and solve a mystery (missing soldiers from both countries) to prevent another war between their countries. It sounds pretty great, if a little cliché.
I also liked that sexuality is a non-issue. Wren, the main character is bi and this is never seen as a problem in this world, which is great.
There's also the over-arching message that kindness is not a weakness, and Wren learns to accept this about herself. I'm afraid these were all the positives for me.
There were so many things that I didn't like, though. A lot can just be down to preference, but not all, I think.
The writing was too full of comparisons and metaphors for me. Some felt so forced and just plain weird. Here are the top ones:
"[she felt like] A rat in a gilded cage."
"Outside her room, there was complete, esophageal darkness, tight and swallowing."
"It tasted burnt and astringent, thick as thrush on her tongue."
"...her sleek braid swinging like a gallows rope."
"At [the tower's] heart, like the rotten pit of a fruit, was [his] cell."
"This was a wet cold [weather] that filled Wren's lungs like phlegm."
"...she could see a storm rolling off the sea, black as fog."
I wasn't impressed by the worldbuilding either - the countries don't really stand out from other fantasy countries, the magic doesn't stand out, the plot doesn't stand out. I didn't find anything unique or particularly convincing. I also had a hard time accepting the setting. Danu, Wren's country, is in a sort of Victorian era, where they have steam trains and photographs, but not electricity, like the more advanced (neutral) neighbour, Cernos. They have magic and advanced magical healing, but the rules and limits of this are never clear, so I found it jarring to see things like dialysis, DNA and intravenous drip thrown in casually in a 1850s-like setting.
I didn't get attached to any of the characters. Wren was good and kind, yes, but she was also extremely irritating. She spent years in an abbey to train as a healer, and for some reason hated the place and dreaded ever having to go back there. I imagined some sort of mental and/or physical abuse, so imagine my surprise when the only negative thing she could say about it was that she felt confined. The mother superior was always mentioned as this wise guiding figure.
Anyway, not a big deal all in all. Even Wren's penchant to ogle her unconscious patient (one time thinking "How tempting it was to touch him, simply because she could") wasn't her worst trait for me. I hate to say it, but Wren was the dumbest main character I've ever seen. Details in the spoilers below.
The other characters were just bland and flat, even Hal, the feared Reaper of Vesria, who could kill people with his magic just by making eye contact, and who had killed hundreds in the war between Vesria and Danu. We only see him as a very soft boy (he's nineteen), who was sort of groomed into his reaper role and now feels remorse and self-hatred.
So up to this point it can all be a matter of taste. I didn't like this, but great if others did.
What baffled me is that people could look past the plot - the constant dumb things the characters did, and how clueless they were. If that's how the author meant to portray them, OK, I didn't like it and I guess, this could also be a matter of preference. I don't expect genius characters, but I would like them to have a modicum of intelligence.
So here are the things in the plot/characters that drove me up the walls:
Rant over! Countless other little things that I didn't find believable at all, but I'll leave it at that.
No one is sorrier than I am that I didn't like this.
March 28, 2023
4.5 stars
-bi main character ✅
-perfect political enemies to lovers romance ✅
-one bed trope ✅
-beautifully atmospheric writing ✅
-strongly written themes of justice, morality and forgiveness ✅
I am an Allison Saft Stan first and a functional human being second. Read this book ! Or pick up her most recent book, A Far Wilder Magic (out March 8) (I actually read an arc of that one first and loved it so much I bought Down Comes the Night). Her stories are so unique and the worlds she create are sooo transportive. I don't know how I could possibly sum up the experience that is her writing in my little review, buttttt I can point you towards some fanart that may give you the proper vibes
Down Comes the Night board - https://www.pinterest.ca/bookishfanar...
A Far Wilder Magic board - https://www.pinterest.ca/bookishfanar...
-bi main character ✅
-perfect political enemies to lovers romance ✅
-one bed trope ✅
-beautifully atmospheric writing ✅
-strongly written themes of justice, morality and forgiveness ✅
I am an Allison Saft Stan first and a functional human being second. Read this book ! Or pick up her most recent book, A Far Wilder Magic (out March 8) (I actually read an arc of that one first and loved it so much I bought Down Comes the Night). Her stories are so unique and the worlds she create are sooo transportive. I don't know how I could possibly sum up the experience that is her writing in my little review, buttttt I can point you towards some fanart that may give you the proper vibes
Down Comes the Night board - https://www.pinterest.ca/bookishfanar...
A Far Wilder Magic board - https://www.pinterest.ca/bookishfanar...
April 22, 2022
“It takes incredible strength to be kind in this world. To endure suffering instead of further it.”
This book definitely took me by surprise by how quickly I became absorbed by it. It is a wonderfully dark, magical, romantic mystery full of intrigue and characters that ensnare you. It has a Bisexual Disaster as its lead, an enemies-to-lovers romance, and a plot that will have you completely captivated until the very end.
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Reading this book reminded me so much of these to books put together. Beauty and the clockwork beast by nancy campbell and Tower of dawn by sara j mass. All of these books are focused on healing and characters that try to rely on each other and find comfort and trust. and I enjoyed reading about them.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Down Comes the Night when I started reading it. The book seemed to have a spooky feel to it, and I do love a good ghost story so I started out expecting something more akin to that. It’s not a ghost story – Down Comes the Night is a story about war. It’s one of those unique books about war that does not take us into the fight, but rather, to a place where peace stands upon the edge of a knife.
There are diplomatic relations and monsters and there is blood. In fact, parts of Down Comes the Night are surprisingly gory. It’s a good thing to be aware of before diving into the story – there’s violence and blood and surgical procedures, all told in stark, straightforward detail.
Hal Cavendish is, what I started to called, a Soft Murder Boy. He has done many things in the past that he is ashamed of, but he knows that regret does not make up for his actions. Hal often feels undeserving, especially when it comes to Wren’s affections, and his insecurities contrast with the killer soldier he’s known to be.
Hal’s transformation from a ruthless killer to a peace-making leader is intriguing and complicated, and I like how the author shows Hal growing and changing throughout the story. While he has the magical ability to kill people with just eye contact, he regrets his actions deeply and longs to do better. He has some self-hatred and lots of regrets, and knows he deserves to be punished, but also strives to make amends for the things he and his country have done to Danu.
“You are not weak for grieving. For feeling anything.”
Wren, meanwhile, is this bisexual disaster with healing powers who believes that her emotions have caused her to be reckless and unloveable, and hopes that her actions will not only save Danu from another war, but allow her to earn the respect and acceptance that she has always longed for. She is passionate, emotional, and empathetic, and she shows strength and resilience throughout the novel.
Wren is also a crier, which I totally relate to. She cries when she is happy and sad and angry. She wears her emotions, which most people, even Wren, see as a weakness .Their relationship transitions smoothly from enemies to lovers as they slowly begin to trust one another and work together to find justice for the missing soldiers.
“Was it so terrible to need someone else? Was kindness such a horrible burden to endure?”
What I loved most was the dynamic between the two of them. I just absolutely love how while Hal is the one with the power to kill, Wren, whose power is healing, is the one who is overprotective of him. She has the “Alpha Male” syndrome that you often see in books, where the guy gets super protective of the girl (usually a hetero couple), but in this case it is opposite.
As she falls in love with Hal, she begins to fear losing him, she gets angry when he gets hurt, she literally stays up at night watching over him in order to make sure no one takes him from her again. And I love how she is the healer while he is the killer but their role dynamics are a bit reversed in the who-protects-whom situation. It creates such a unique balance and nature that you can't help but root for it.
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I really enjoyed reading this book. It held me captive, had an excellent enemies-to-lovers romance, was brimming with mystery and darkness, and had characters that I absolutely adored. I loved the relationship between Hal and Wren, the character growth that they and the side characters all went through, and the magic system and how it relayed to the characters themselves.
This gothic-inspired fantasy novel is perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of dark mystery with their romance and magic.
One of the absolute beautiful 5 star releases and must read of 2021.
January 23, 2021
3.5 stars - I would say that "objectively," this is probably closer to a 3 star, because I do think there are some pacing and plotting issues with how the book unfolded, particularly in the first ~25%. That said, I had so much fun reading this one, because it was just very much my jam. It's a fantasy romance with a isolated murder mystery plot which... hello. SO me.
December 3, 2023
Don't you just love it when one of your most anticipated novels doesn't disappoint? It's dark and macabre, it's gothic and chilling, and it's terribly romantic.
Wren Southerland is a military healer sidelined by her own reckless actions. She is a kind-hearted bastard girl with a lot of deeply felt emotions, and all it earns her is zero respect from her aunt, the queen of Danu. So, when the opportunity to step back into the queen's good graces arises, Wren takes it without hesitation. What follows is a tale of enemies, betrayal, the threat of war, and so much magic.
While the book was a bit text heavy in the beginning, I truly fell in love with this book. My friend finished reading it right as I started, so it was delightful to have someone to screech about certain scenes with. And that happened a lot. There is just so much to commend with this debut. The plot is well-rounded and paced just right to keep adding new layers of intrigue while ramping the stakes up to 11. I adored the main characters, Wren and Hal, because not only were they both complex and relatable, but their chemistry was phenomenal. The villain was terribly interesting and difficult to predict, which only heightened my reading experience.
I was fascinated with Saft's world-building from the start. It feels so well developed with a fresh twist on the combination of magic, science and industry. Not everyone has magic, but those who do must wield theirs with great care. Within each healer, there is a source called the fola., and when magic is pushed too hard, too long without rest, the magic can disappear entirely. The concept added a whole new level to the conflict of the plot. Of the three countries we learn of, the two in possession of magic have been at war with each other for centuries, while the third has remained neutral. Instead it turned to technology as a replacement for magic, inventing such amenities as electricity. It is in this third country, Cernos, that we get the best Guillermo del Toro vibes. Colwick Hall had all the gothic ghost vibes and was the perfect setting to kick off the main events.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is usually all I need to hear in order for a book to be added to my TBR, and this was a most excellent usage of it. Wren is summoned to Colwick Hall to heal someone of a mysterious and horrible illness, but little does she know that she is to heal the Reaper of Vesria, Hal Cavendish. Like her, he has magic, but where hers is used to heal, his has been used to murder hundreds of her people in war. And now she has him entirely at her mercy. It was just so well done, the development of their relationship. They are exactly the kind of combative but tender couple I love in my YA novels, and I'll fight who I need to to keep Hal safe.
By now I'm sure you've heard that Wren is bisexual, so let me just assure you that this was truly the best bisexual rep I've ever read. It was handled so beautifully and intricately. Instead of being mentioned in passing, it was shown to us in all its glory and heartbreak.
I feel a little silly about this, but I had no idea this was a standalone. I was so sure this was a duology, so the entire time I was expecting things to snowball and roll into a sequel. Then I was struck speechless by an ending that was just ... oh my word it was just so warm and good. All it means is I will just have to reread this book again to appreciate it even more.
Wren Southerland is a military healer sidelined by her own reckless actions. She is a kind-hearted bastard girl with a lot of deeply felt emotions, and all it earns her is zero respect from her aunt, the queen of Danu. So, when the opportunity to step back into the queen's good graces arises, Wren takes it without hesitation. What follows is a tale of enemies, betrayal, the threat of war, and so much magic.
While the book was a bit text heavy in the beginning, I truly fell in love with this book. My friend finished reading it right as I started, so it was delightful to have someone to screech about certain scenes with. And that happened a lot. There is just so much to commend with this debut. The plot is well-rounded and paced just right to keep adding new layers of intrigue while ramping the stakes up to 11. I adored the main characters, Wren and Hal, because not only were they both complex and relatable, but their chemistry was phenomenal. The villain was terribly interesting and difficult to predict, which only heightened my reading experience.
I was fascinated with Saft's world-building from the start. It feels so well developed with a fresh twist on the combination of magic, science and industry. Not everyone has magic, but those who do must wield theirs with great care. Within each healer, there is a source called the fola., and when magic is pushed too hard, too long without rest, the magic can disappear entirely. The concept added a whole new level to the conflict of the plot. Of the three countries we learn of, the two in possession of magic have been at war with each other for centuries, while the third has remained neutral. Instead it turned to technology as a replacement for magic, inventing such amenities as electricity. It is in this third country, Cernos, that we get the best Guillermo del Toro vibes. Colwick Hall had all the gothic ghost vibes and was the perfect setting to kick off the main events.
The enemies-to-lovers trope is usually all I need to hear in order for a book to be added to my TBR, and this was a most excellent usage of it. Wren is summoned to Colwick Hall to heal someone of a mysterious and horrible illness, but little does she know that she is to heal the Reaper of Vesria, Hal Cavendish. Like her, he has magic, but where hers is used to heal, his has been used to murder hundreds of her people in war. And now she has him entirely at her mercy. It was just so well done, the development of their relationship. They are exactly the kind of combative but tender couple I love in my YA novels, and I'll fight who I need to to keep Hal safe.
By now I'm sure you've heard that Wren is bisexual, so let me just assure you that this was truly the best bisexual rep I've ever read. It was handled so beautifully and intricately. Instead of being mentioned in passing, it was shown to us in all its glory and heartbreak.
I feel a little silly about this, but I had no idea this was a standalone. I was so sure this was a duology, so the entire time I was expecting things to snowball and roll into a sequel. Then I was struck speechless by an ending that was just ... oh my word it was just so warm and good. All it means is I will just have to reread this book again to appreciate it even more.
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