4.4 on the Masq Scale. Nocturnal Embers, published by @crimsonmelodies #fantasy
Cover links to Amazon.com
Nocturnal Embers
a Supernatural / Dark Fantasy Anthology
Published by Crimson Melodies
Follow @crimsonmelodies
Genre: Fantasy, Supernatural
Book Synopsis
Or, perhaps you’ve heard of him.
If you have, you are most likely a vampire. Humans who know the name have limited lifespans or are in his employ (in which case you have not heard of Rupert Shaw, the vampire who rules over San Francisco – not if you want to keep your potential lifespan intact).
But if you’ve heard of Nocturnal Embers, you certainly know him. It’s even possible that you’ve seen him on the occasions you visited the establishment. Of course, you’d also know that discussing what goes on at Nocturnal Embers beyond its walls is a quick invitation to possessing gaps in your memory – if you’re one of the lucky ones.
What it is can’t fully be captured in words, anyway. It needs to be experienced.
So if you’re ever in San Francisco, in the neighborhood of the Transamerica Pyramid, keep your eyes open. Down one of the narrow streets, among the shops and nightclubs, its entrance unassuming, is Nocturnal Embers.
And on the other side of the door?
Nocturnal Embers contains eleven original stories of varying length - most averaging 9k. The total word count for the anthology is 105k, which is about the same as an average novel.
Some stories are of a violent nature and / or contain adult themes. It is not for children or young teens.
Linda's Review
Very adeptly placed in the genre of Supernatural Dark Fantasy and rated 16+, I agree wholeheartedly. This book is an Anthology, which if you are unfamiliar to the term means collection of short stories. I personally am more accustomed to devoting myself to one author at a time and getting lost in their creation. It was a nice surprise for me to enjoy this sampling of many talents!
What I loved about this book was the common denominator Nocturnal Embers, a nightclub for the vast array of supernatural beings depicted in each tale. This place was simple, yet I felt it added just the right edgy flare, while giving the reader a focal point to connect with as we move from one story to the next each with a fresh set of circumstances and characters. In addition, I thought the brief glimpse into each author just prior to their story was a nice touch.
Whether you have an affection for Witches, Shapeshifters, Vampires or Fae you are sure to find something that will tickle your fancy. I was especially fond of "Hunting Evangeline" by Zack Rewey and "Banished" by Jessica Fortunato, though you'll find all the narrations are skillfully written.
Comparatively, what I didn't love was being that this was a compilation of so many stories and characters I am left with no one to root for! No one stood out well enough to really love (or hate for that matter) because their time on the page was too brief. In fact the only character's name that I can remember without looking back is Evangeline! Now it is my personal preference to become emotionally involved, you may find that it is more pleasurable to take a glimpse and move on.
All in all, the writing styles were creative and at times captivating. I advise keeping your eyes open for more from this talented bunch.
Review Disclaimer: Book provided in exchange for an honest review.
Content Disclaimer: Marked mature due to violence, language, sex, drugs, and alcohol.
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