Shadows of Asphodel

Shadows of Asphodel #1

by Karen Kincy

He’s an abomination. She’s the only one who can save him.

1913. Austria-Hungary. Wendel may be devilishly handsome, a charming bastard with the manners of disinherited royalty, but he's an abomination. His skin shivers with the icy fire of necromancy. With one touch, he can raise the dead. Worse still, he's being hunted by assassins from Constantinople, and he would rather die than confess why.

Ardis escaped her own dark past, fleeing from America as a fugitive to become a mercenary for the Archmages of Vienna. When she discovers Wendel bleeding out on the battlefield, she saves his life with a ransom in mind. She never asked for him to fall to one knee and declare his undying loyalty, or for tension to smolder hot between them. Especially once she discovers his scars run much deeper than his skin.

Shadows of Asphodel is a fast-burn fantasy romance novel with lush worldbuilding and gritty fight scenes. Perfect for fans of enemies to lovers, secret royalty, and tortured bad boys who might not be redeemable.

Genres: Steampunk, Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Historical, Historical Fiction, Science Fiction

352 pages, ebook

First published September 13, 2013

About the author

Karen Kincy writes books when she isn’t writing code. She has a BA in Linguistics and Literature from The Evergreen State College, and an MS in Computational Linguistics from the University of Washington.

Reviews

[Maja (The Nocturnal Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of all the subgenres in all the world, dieselpunk romance is my new passion. You may be scratching your head and frowning right about now, but let me tell you this: In Shadows of Asphodel, all the swords, zeppelins, necromancers, love and lust combined into a magical read that made me fall in love not only with the book, but with the genre itself.

Thorough and inspiring, Kincys’s worldbuilding puts more seasoned authors to shame. Dieselpunk is still fairly unexplored, but I felt she included just the right number of diesel-fueled inventions to turn this into a spectacular read. In addition, the alternate history pre-World War I setting was done extremely well, far removed from true events, and yet close enough to make everything that happens easily recognizable. There were times when I wished this to be just a bit more tightly plotted, but overall, it was an excellent read.

In addition to the excellent worldbuilding, Kincy gave us Ardis, a heroine worthy of admiration. As the half-Asian daughter of a courtesan, she was never fully accepted and her life was always a struggle. Even in such impossible circumstances, Ardis grew up to be a warrior – a defender, a killer, or whatever else her employers, the Archmages, deem necessary. And, proving that a tough exterior alone isn’t enough for a spectacular heroine, she has a warm, tender and loyal heart underneath.

However, while Ardis charmed and thrilled me, the necromancer she rescued disappointed me at every turn. I don’t mind a tortured hero at all, but Wendel’s surliness was taken just a bit too far. I couldn’t for the life of me understand what Ardis saw in him, and most of the time, I didn’t believe a single word that came out of his mouth.

I suppose it’s clear that, while I loved the world and the heroine, the romance part of this dieselpunk romance fell a bit flat. After a promising beginning, the relationship lost most of its appeal. However, I stayed firmly on Ardis’ side throughout, and since her side was also Wendel’s, somehow it all worked out.

I firmly believe that Karen Kincy, Shadows of Asphodel series and dieselpunk itself have a lot more to give. It’s is a triangle filled with potential and I’m so happy I came along for the ride.

[Candace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book that when I finished reading I lay in bed and stared at the ceiling just thinking about it. For hours. I couldn't pick anything else up; I just wanted to read it again!

I'd been excited about reading this book for what has felt like a very long time. I love Steampunk so when I heard this was Dieselpunk I was curious what the difference would be. I have to say that for me, not someone fully versed in the difference, I couldn't really tell a difference. All I know is that it was AWESOME! These aspects of the book were actually quite light, so no worries about not understanding how things work or having complicated explanations.

My favorite part of the book is the characters. I really liked Ardis a lot. She's a mercenary, so she's definitely good with a sword. She's kick ass and bold, she carries herself with confidence. She's not full of angst and drama and I really, really loved this. Not to say that she didn't have emotions, oh no- she has stuff to deal with, but she deals with it, she doesn't dwell on it and go on and on all 'woe is me'. This book works for the 'New Adult' age group due to the characters age, so the angst and drama tends to be a concern, but don't worry about that here! While Ardis and Wendel have a rocky first meeting, it smoothes out quickly. They have some issues, there has to be some drama, but it's only the necessary and realistic sort and nothing is drawn out longer than it should be. I really appreciated this aspect of the book as it was truly perfect.

Wendel was a win from the start. He's been hurt in the beginning, so he could be construed as weak, but he isn't. Even injured he carries himself with confidence. He's arrogant, bold and sure of himself. He says what he thinks, but he's not one of those jerks that are mean just to drive people away. He's not mean at all really. While he and Ardis may have 'words' a time or two, he's usually honest, even if he doesn't spill all his secrets. While Wendel is arrogant and confident, he's still vulnerable and even broken. This made him feel more real, but never weak. While necromancers may make some cringe, it may seem dirty, gross and wrong; Wendel's confidence and sureness regarding this part of him, made it seem almost attractive. The way he carries himself when doing what he does makes it seem like a quality, a very good thing. Wendel may have a lot of demons but his acceptance of his necromancy and not being ashamed of it was something that I really, really loved. Wendel will likely become the man that many girls will soon be swooning over. Oh yes... you must meet Wendel.

The romance happens pretty quickly and if I were to change one thing about this book it would be for the sexual tension to climb just a tad more before it went anywhere. However, this wouldn't be the same book if it did, and I really, really loved it as it was. The pages sizzled with steam between these two. There is sex, and it is a romance so we see it. I'm not one who loves descriptive sex in books, but it's not really negative, I just skim over it quickly. The book isn't all sex or anything, so don't be too concerned about that. But it IS there for all of you romance lovers.

I loved the setting of the book. They travel a lot, so it takes place over several areas of Europe, but much of it is in Vienna. While it's not overly descriptive, and this may be a negative for some, I found it to work for this book. I still could easily picture where they were and everything. I thought it was great, and for those that aren't overly fond of historical settings, you may still enjoy this one.

While I could have read this book straight through just because I loved it so much; it was the last quarter or so that I couldn't put down. I felt ALL THE FEELS. Some really dark stuff goes down and all you want is for things to desperately work out. So I feverishly read, terrified that it would end at a critical moment and we would be stuck with a cliffhanger. But we weren't! No cliffhanger! It had an epic end in that some MAJOR stuff goes down, but the immediate issues have been dealt with. However, there are still things that need to be solved. I will be very anxiously awaiting the next book. I CANNOT wait to see what goes down next!

A few notes for those who don't know: This book is self published by the author, but she is previously traditionally published (3 books) and she's clearly been professionally edited. This book was as good as any traditionally published book, and personally I feel it was probably better because the author was able to take the book in the direction she wanted without anyone telling her that they didn't think it would work that way. Sometimes authors need to follow their hearts and do it their way and I personally think that's best; to stay true to the story.
This one gets 5 stars. I had the biggest grin when I finished this book. I have a feeling I'll be thinking about it for quite some time.

You can (soon) find this review on my blog, as well as others like it (and unlike it), at http://www.candacesbookblog.com

[Eva Müller · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review can also be found on my blog

"Why did someone as bad as a necromancer have to look so good?"

(I should have known what was coming after that quote)

A book set in an alternate Austria-Hungary 1912. That sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately, it ended up severely disappointing. That started with the fact that for all the influence the setting had on the plot it could just as easily have been set in the Year of the Unicorn in a fantasy land with too many vowels in its name. The Black Hand plays a role but they're just generic rebels that need to attack so that we get an action scene (one of so many...). There is a mention of an assassination attempt in Franz Ferdinand but it doesn't influence the plot in any way.

Though, to be honest, I was still entertained for quite a while. Ardis is a mercenary and not one of those where you wonder how somebody that stupid survived that long. She is capable but not super-human. Wendel is a character that has been through horrible things and it still affects him, even at inconvenient times.

And the book is far from boring. A lot of things are happening. Constantly. There is fighting. And more fighting. And even more fighting. Then there's a big reveal (though one that doesn't seem to affect the protagonists much). Some more fighting. Then there's sex. And fighting. And sex. And another reveal with no consequences. Some more sex. More fighting...

The characters are constantly busy. But they don't develop. And their relationship doesn't develop. Considering this book is also marketed as paranormal romance that is...unfortunate. At the beginning Ardis distrusts Wendel because he's a necromancer and necromancers don't have a very good reputation. Only he is also hot. And smells good (like a rainy pine forest). Then plot-reasons happen and they end up traveling together. Wendel continues to be hot. And admittedly acts in a way that shows that he isn't an utter asshole but has just decided to act like a jerk when everybody thinks necromancers are evil anyway. Still, he also doesn't exactly radiate trustworthiness. But he continues to be hot. Then a lot of people tell Ardis she shouldn't trust Wendel and even that he's bad but she ignores them. Presumably, because somebody who is so hot can't be a bad person. Because nothing in Wendel's behaviour and refusal to talk about his past screams 'trust me'.

Now don't get me wrong: Wendel has some good reasons for not talking about himself. But at the same time, Ardis has no reason for trusting him, especially after several people tell her not to. And this could have been a great source of conflict in the book. But apparently, we only want to read about people getting beheaded with magic swords or people fucking for ages. Now I like magic swords but I also like characters with complex emotions. And the main emotion these characters had was lust. And lust does not carry a whole book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the MOST AWESOME book I have ever written. For real. If you don't believe me, read an excerpt and see what you think. Better yet, read the whole book.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance novel-ish portion of the cover made me hesitate, but seeing it shelved as "steampunk" by fellow readers convinced me to pick it up regardless - it's hard to resist a potentially interesting steampunk story. Turns out this is actually dieselpunk - machines run on diesel and not steam, and just in case you might overlook this fact, there's actually a scientist in the story named Diesel. Heh. So it appears this would be my first dieselpunk novel instead... and it's not a bad start.

This book managed to make the combination of aspects work; the alternate history pre-World War I setting, the romance, the diesel-run inventions and even the necromancy/magic had their place in the story and meshed well. It didn't lack balance, which is particularly nice given how often the romance (and this does have steamy scenes) takes over the plot in mixed-genre novels. I was particularly fond of the alternate history setting; it's somewhat reminiscent of the Leviathan series by Scott Westerfeld in that respect and the cross-country travel via train really placed me right in the period (not to mention it reminded me of Agatha Christie's The Mystery of the Blue Train and Murder on the Orient Express in the best way possible).

I did find myself wanting more background on the fantasy aspects, particularly Wendel's necromancy - considering how important it is to the plot and how frequently it is used, it seems odd that we're only given the vaguest idea how it works and know very little about the extent of his power or why it's rare enough for him to be in such demand. Ardis also makes an interesting discovery about her sword, but it's quickly brushed aside after a few comments and a foreboding prediction that never comes to pass (just like most of the magic used, actually - people just wave their hands and we're told the result). And what about the Order of Asphodel? Or the archmages that Ardis works for? Two organizations that are key to the lives of the two main characters and I can honestly say I know next to nothing about them except that... well, the Order of Asphodel is clearly BAD, since they've done horrible things to Wendel, and the archmages are planning something fishy.

Our main characters are interesting, though I never really connected with either of them. Ardis is tough, proud of her independence and intensely loyal - bonus points for being half-Asian and a mercenary to boot. Wendel is extremely complicated and rather a puzzle to me; he's a charming and frivolous playboy, emotionally battered outcast and arrogant asshat all in one. The problem, however, was that their behaviour was often inconsistent with their established personalities. For a mercenary who is supposed to be emotionally distant and cynical, Ardis is remarkably quick to trust Wendel and even quicker to want a permanent relationship with him. One moment she is vocally disgusted by necromancers to the point of refusing to touch Wendel, and a short conversation or two later she is considering sleeping with him and hurt that he would plan to leave. Girl, you've just met him! The same applies to Wendel - his mood swings are so severe that it's hard to know what to believe.

The romantic relationship between the two is probably one of the weakest points of the story, which is sad considering how central it is to their respective motivations. There's no way to describe it other than "insta-love," really. They meet, they exchange harsh words, take a train together and BAM, deep attraction develops (while they still know next to nothing about each other) and we move right on to sexy times, where the big L word is already tossed out. There's a major disconnect between what we're actually told - that it's love and Ardis' loyalty/Wendel's willingness to sacrifice is motivated by this - and what we actually see, which is a whole lot of lust and not a lot of trust. For all her "love," Ardis simply doesn't appear to trust Wendel at all.

Despite the issues I had with the romance and character inconsistencies, the story as a whole was largely enjoyable; it's certainly action-packed and doesn't want for pace. There's also plenty left to be explored with the characters' complicated back stories, so it has potential to get better. Worth a shot.

[Evie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows of Asphodel is a breathtaking page-turner. The action starts at page one of this book and it practically never stops. The many twists and turns, unexpected plot developments and reveals, combined with all the layers of character building and magnificent historical backdrop, result in a novel that is not only action-packed and epic, but also quite intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. I loved the setting of this book! It's not so much a steampunk novel, as it is dieselpunk - and the first dieselpunk I've ever read at that! We've got the fantastic and beautifully described historical setting, but then we've also got guns and cars, and some other things you wouldn't see in a typical steampunk novel. I thought that was really cool and I loved how swiftly and skilfully Karen weaved together the history with the modern world. I mean, come on! Rudolf Diesel himself is one of the characters in this book. How incredibly cool is that?!

Karen's descriptions of Ardis and Wendel's relationship - and particularly the spine-tingling sexual tension between them - put the steam in this steampunk novel! The sex scenes were just perfect for my taste - not too explicit, very tasteful and subtle, and yet completely mind-blowing (in a good way!). I loved the dynamics of their relationship. They are two very different people, with seemingly nothing in common, thrown together and expected to survive, all the while trying to make sense of what's happening between them and how it affects their lives. It was hot and heartpounding, yes, but it was also quite brilliant and complex. The romance between them, while maybe a tiny bit awkward and rushed at the beginning, was overall completely mesmerizing and convincing. I loved it!!!

Both the lead characters were simply awesome. Ardis, the sword-wielding, half-Chinese mercenary for Austria-Hungary, and Wendel, the mysterious, badass yet vulnerable Necromancer. They make an explosive duo. Their interactions are full of tension and chemistry, but they don't lack humor either. They're both sharp and tough, guarded and wary of everyone around them, and yet their connection and strong attraction to each other is undeniable. I liked Ardis a lot, but I liked Wendel even more. He is one extremely complex character, with a dark, secret-filled past and some heavy burdens to carry in his life. The more we learn about him, the better we understand him and the more we warm up to him. He was definitely my favorite character in this book.

I'll be honest, I did not expect to love this book as much as I did. Adult steampunk (or dieselpunk) novels tend to be hit or miss with me, especially if they involve sex scenes. Thankfully, Karen Kincy's Shadows of Asphodel turned out to be a perfectly balanced blend of fantasy, science fiction, history and romance, and once I picked it up, I did not want to put it down. The world and character building in this book is supreme! The action sequences are described with such amazing clarity, they're almost cinematic. And the plot line is well thought-out, captivating and full of tension (and not just sexual tension, either). It's a book I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good story set against a glamorous and vibrant historical background. You will not be disappointed with this one!

[a_tiffyfit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I...fell in love with this book. Or maybe it is just Wendel. Yeah, maybe I fell in love with Wendel. Wendel & Ardis. Nope, I fell in love with Wendel AND this book. A little steampunk, a little magic, a little romance, incredible passion, thirst for revenge, when I finished, I sighed happily.

"Necromancy is fascinating," he murmured. "There's a certain repulsive elegance about the magic. With it, I can recover memories long lost. I can speak to the dead who left this world days, weeks, even centuries ago."

Ardis is a half-chinese, half-european assassin, working for the archmages, the world on the brink of war. She finds Wendel bleeding and wounded in the snow, quickly discovering he is a Necromancer, a very rare magic wielder. Wendel is close-lipped about his past, only hinting that he was disinherited by his noble family when they discovered what he can do. As he and Ardis work together, they fall for one another quickly. There was something about this book where I didn't mind how quickly Ardis and Wendel fell for one another. Normally, I'd kvetch a bit about insta-love, but I was totally pleased with this development. TOTALLY. It made my heart melt.

Wendel is hell-bent on destroying the Order of Asphodel, his torturers, his commanders, whatever you want to call them. They only use him and abuse him. Ardis discovers she has a link there that she wasn't previously aware of. Wendel is subtle and sweet and strong. Ardis is leery of everyone but keeps feeling that tug towards Wendel. At one point, I was really ticked with her thinking that she was betraying him; but all is well later.

Wendel is full of these poetic phrases that just tug on your heart strings.

"The truth of my life," he said, "will die with me, as it does with us all. And my memories will fade as my bones grow old, and I will love on only in the memories of those who cared I should not be forgotten." --- how lovely and true is this? That is true immortality; being remembered by those who loved you.

He later went on to break my heart when he says to Ardis:
"Ardis," he said. "I wish I..." She drew back to look at him, and he closed his eyes. Maybe he couldn't look at her. "I wish I weren't so broken," he whispered.

And then he totally wrecked me with his discovery of why the other necromancers failed to master death or come back from the dead. But I won't quote that one. I want that impact to remain for you as you pick up this book. This is a re-readable for sure and I can only hope there will be future stories with Wendel and Ardis or perhaps in the same world, but not with them. I don't know...I just want to read more!

***disclaimer: my copy was a review copy given in exchange for an honest review.***

[✿ℎazℯℓ - thℯ ℛock Cℎick ℱairy✿ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Unexpectedly romantic!

When I requested for this book, I thought I would just love it because of the action it promises. However, now I love it because of the characters' interaction!

They're just... MFEO! MADE FOR EACH OTHER. ^_^ Now you might think that I'm just romanticizing their story, but no. They're truly a romantic pair!!

ARDIS, my darling mercenary, is a kickass girl who's known for her ruthlessness in battle. She ran from her past and is currently living with lots of blood in her hands, obviously because of her profession. She meets, ahem, MY WENDEL, who in so many ways, is a gentleman. However, she didn't start out knowing him like that. She thought he was something to be disgusted with, being a necromancer and all that. I'm just so glad that Wendel proved him wrong!


Wendel, Wendel, Wendel... Where do I even start?

MY Wendel is hot. Not just hot, but also dashing, charming, handsome in a refined way. He's such a catch and yes, HE'S MIINNEEE. #fangirlalert


Now that that's out of the way...

Wendel is the kind of hero that is vulnerable on the inside, but all charming and badass on the outside. He maybe your unconventional guy, but he is sweet most of the time. I like how he interacts with Ardis, like she's really a fine woman and not just a mercenary. I like how he took his oath seriously and I like how he was able to keep all of his promises to Ardis. Wendel might be such a mystery, but there's no deying that he's totally head over heels with Ardis and boy, he's not afraid of expressing it!


Our heroine on the other hand, isn't the same. With her past clouding her present, she has a lot of baggage that she holds on to. The twist here even made her life more complicated, so i forgive her for not being so expressive. However, she is truly loyal. I give you that.

I honestly thought that this book won't be so romantic. I was wrong and I was shocked because man... that ending! Okay okaayyy..


YOU JUST HAVE TO READ IT!!!


In this book, you'll find out just how amazing it can be when a mercenary meets her .. umm.. necromancer. Trust me! It's everything you never expected. The thrill, the action, the love.. even the drama! It all manages to make this amazing! :) Better than amazing, actually!

A review copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

***I received this book from the publisher curiosity quills as part of the book tour for book 2 storms of Lazarus in exchange for an honest review***

This is my first time reading a steampunk novel and well I didn't hate this book I didn't love it either, I'm definitely somewhere in the middle with it. I at times liked the characters on a few occasions I wasn't so keen on them, I didn't really connect strongly with either of the main characters. The archmage for me was what probably saved it, I think he was the better character and I liked when he popped up. I think my biggest issue with this book was the insta-love one minute they meet a few harsh words are tossed around at each other Ardis doesn't want Wendal touching her and the next there kissing on the train and then love... no.... I just couldn't really find it believable. At times I felt like this book was rather on the slow side too then when it did start to get some more kickass moments it ended all to quickly for me. Overall this is a good book but it didn't really grab me and demand to be read I struggled to keep reading at times and that's the reason for the slightly lower rating I like a book to grab me and keep me hooked until the end.

[Galateea · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK, so i have to write my thoughts on this. Inspiration struck me suddenly. Mind you, not that i needed to have inspiration to write a review for this book, but if i did write my thoughts on it without inspiration all that i would write would be along the lines of, but not limited to 'OMG OMG OMG MORE' or 'GEEZUS pls end up together for eternity for the sake of my complex fantasies' or perhaps 'If i read one more word about steampunk and Wendel in the same context, i know what's gonna happen'. This to be exact:

Still, no regrets. One thing i absolutely adore though is for the characters int he books that i read (and boy do i read) to have personality. That something unique and amazing (in my opinion, doesn't need to be something extraordinary) just those little somethings that make you adore the book you are reading. And believe me lads and lasses, this does not mean that the world building in this little bundle of dieselpunk joy doesn't kick ass in the very best of ways.

From the first 2 pages i was ready to promise Ardis that i would bear demon spawn to rule the planet if only she would continue being that awesome. And by the time Wendel stepped in properly into the picture, i was swearing a blood oath to him to offer my firstborn as a minion for raising an army of the dead AND ruling the world. *cough cough* Yes i know, i may sound unhinged but a good steampunk book does me in every time. Just so you can make an opinion of smokin' hot Wendel it also helps that he's apparently a prince with a rather obnoxious family (aren't all royals like this) Yep, ladies this one is a genuine bad boy.

BUT! We all have our secret hopes for that one kickass heroine that can reform bad boys, princes or not . It happened quite a lot lately for me to read books that are tagged and sold as part of the steampunk genre, only to discover afterwards that the only thing steampunk about them is the book cover, the period and one or two frail mentions of some steampunk ish object or concept. That really takes the wind out of my sails. If it says steampunk, then make it steampunk This is one of the reasons i adore this book (and its equally illustrious sequel). It has some pretty solid world building and some pretty awesome explained elements. And some wicked dieselpunk characteristics that just suck you inside the storyline and keep you hooked until the end.

An end which i might add, that came way too fast for my liking. Too fast because i wanted to keep reading not too fast because it wasn't a very satisfying conclusion to this book. OK, fine, way more than satisfying, but i m trying to tone down my enthusiasm so i wouldn't appear like the book maniac that i am. Nevertheless Ardis, awesome mercenary on the run and Wendel, badass necromancer (also on the run) had some pretty charming chemistry between the two of them.

Well, i wouldn't actually use the word 'charming' to describe their ahem *cough, cough* skyrocketing *cough,cough* sex scenes *cough, cough* but any other word i would use would be horribly R rated and would only mark the start of a very traumatizing fan girling moment from my part.

So, as a conclusion. Awesome characters? Check. Epic plot? Check. Sizzling sex scenes? Check. Nerve churning plot twists? Check. Steampunk and dieselpunk epicness? Check.
Seriously now, what more do you want?


I for one want nothing more from life. OK, maybe except the upcoming novella The Clockwork Menagerie and the third book in the series, but i'm an irrecoverable bibliophile. So, considering that i'm extremely picky about books, and that i wholeheartedly recommended this, do put your fluffy paws on it and read it. It will be worth your time ten times over, believe me.

[Tanja (Tanychy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review also posted at Ja čitam, a ti?

The time setting of this book is a very familiar to all of us. We all remember history classes and the whole First World War period. We know that Germany was preparing for the big war and that a lot of army and arms were included. But this book will show you that not only human inventions were part of this era, but some paranormal forces as well.

Ardis, our main character here is a mercenary and her task for Austira-Hungary is to kill people with her skills. With that she is half American and half Chinese, an unusual combination for that time, which brought her the life of mercenary in a first place. Once on a battlefield when she sees a man bleeding to death, it's strange that it hits her stronger than she would expect. She killed many after all. But soon enough she discovers that the bleeding stranger is more than usual man, he is actually a necromancer and if she let's him die he might return as a monster. She cannot let that happen. Upon saving him, he swears fealty to her. Now they're somehow stuck together, and soon enough they discover what a great team they are. On all fields.

While Ardis was someone I could easily connect with, Wendel and I have some issues to overcome. He is a great portrayal of necromancer, person who had a really tough past to deal with. Still I had some problems with some of his actions. But, on the other side the world-building and the whole setting has everything I could ask for. We're in the center of activities but at the same time we're far from it. The whole war idea is in the air but we can see everyday lives of people and the whole network of people behind the curtains.

I have a strong feeling that Karen Kincy has more to offer to the whole steampunk genre and be sure that I'll be waiting to see what.

[Farrah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, intense, and amazing, Shadows of Asphodel was just brilliant. I absolutely loved this New Adult dieselpunk read. It was darkly romantic, endlessly thrilling, and deeply emotional. I really enjoyed this fabulous book.

Ardis was a very strong heroine. She didn't let herself be taken advantage of and took on every bad situation that was thrown at her. She was the very definition of bad ass. I really liked her. I thought she was awesome.

Wendel was also great. He had a lot of secrets, so many so that I truly wondered about him a few times. And, I think that made him a very interesting character because he added a lot of complexity. He was very clever and a formidable opponent. But, he was also sweet and he tried to become a better person. I adored him. He was a perfectly flawed hero.

The romance was lovely. Ardis and Wendel has some super hot chemistry and there was a ton of steaminess with these two. But, they were also genuinely sweet together. They were both very strong and they met their match in each other.

The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. There were tons of thrills that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was wonderful. This is supposed to be the first in the series, and I don't know what's coming up, since the story was seemed fairly tied up at the end, but I would love to see more.

Shadows of Asphodel was a brilliant New Adult romance. I loved this book. It was dark, romantic, thrilling, and just fantastic. Romance lovers, this book is a must read.



*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

[Kara-karina · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, Karen Kincy is definitely favored by cover gods! Even the first cover for this book was wonderful. The second one is just more to the point.

Secondly, I don't know why it took me so long to read it. First chapter was a bit of a struggle, but then I got right into it.

Easy, adventurous, clever dieselpunk fantasy which by its tandem of a necromancer and a mercenary strongly reminded me of Melanie Card's fantasy series.



Ardis is an American half-Chinese who escaped her own country because she murdered a man who couldn't take "no" for an answer. She arrived to Europe just before the First World War and got hired as a mercenary working for peacekeeping Archmages (technomages).



On a mission she discovers Wendel, a mysterious young necromancer, who she takes hostage after he tries to attack her. Wendel is a talented assassin for The Order of Asphodel, and he desperately wants out. He is on the run from countless assassins and he unwittingly makes Ardis their target as well, when they become romantically involved.

Wendel and Ardis have great dynamics as a couple. Both hardened, full of secrets, their own agendas and strange vulnerability, these two sarcastic smart-arses can't stay away from each other, and after few tries to think rationally and separate, Ardis gives up and starts helping Wendel in his quest.

This is a very intriguing, light and easy read, a great beginning of a promising series, and I very much recommend it to any fun of steampunk or urban fantasy.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in an alternate universe where a hex has rendered modern weaponry useless in continental Europe, Ardis rescues a devilishly handsome and extremely snarky necromancer. By this stage you probably get a pretty good idea whether or not you'll enjoy it or not, so I won't say anything more.

However, this book has got the lot. Swordfights! Necromancers! Romance! Mech suits! The only thing it doesn't have is necromancers controlling undead swarms of bees to attack people (but hey, we can't have it all).

It didn't take me too long to finish, but that might be more to do with the fact I stayed up until 3am to finish it off.

Taking a star off because I now have to hunt down the rest of Ms Kincy's books and read them all.

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap, that was a thrilling read.and you know,I think I remember Other being like this.I mean this story was so different but just as all consuming.Stayed up till almost 3 am but I don't care. Thank you so much Mrs. Kincy for giving me the opportunity to live breath and die and come back again.AMAZING!!

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! The characters are like jellyfish, in that they electrocute you and become a part of you. I can't seem to decide what genre it is. It has a little something for everyone. I highly recommend it and can't wait to read book 2!

My Rating: 5+ stars

[Lorena · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** Actual rating: 4.5/5
** See more at: http://petrichorabookblog.tumblr.com
* Recensione in italiano più sotto

Review

We are in 1913, Ardis, a mercenary armed with an ancient sword, is in a snowy battlefield in Transylvania. She works to keep the peace, even if it involves the killing of a number of rebels who oppose the Empire of Austria-Hungary. There, among the prayers and cries of the wounded, his attention is drawn to an unarmed man, well dressed and very charming. She would like to kill him, but Wendel, this is the man’s name, is a necromancer and kill an abomination of this kind is not an idea to consider. And when Ardis decides to spare his life, Wendel swears fealty to her.
This is just the beginning of their journey, traveling around Europe and beyond, which will lead them to know themselves more deeply than they can imagine. The tension between the two is palpable from the first pages and grows in a crescendo culminating in the city of Vienna.

Ardis and Wendel are two completely different personalities, but also very similar. They both bring their wounds more or less concealed, wounds that can be traced back to their families and their past life experiences. Ardis is determined, she knows death, but at the same time she is afraid, and the gift of Wendel’s bothering her much more than she can express in words. He, however, never asked to have a “talent” of the genre, it is at least as scared as Ardis, but, unlike her, he is deeply fascinated. But will the few similarities unite them or will the differences divide them?
On the background of what promises to be one of the major conflicts in the world, their lives will intersect more than once, and many secrets about their past will be revealed.
The scene is stolen by these two great characters, even if I have to make a special mention for Konstantin and the historical (and not) character of Diesel. If I had doubts initially about the first, given by a sort of sixth sense, for the second I immediately had a strong empathy.

Speaking of the setting, Vienna is essentially the background to most of the story. But in the end we will have a touch of the East with Constantinople and even a pinch of England. The train travels and those on the zeppelin, then, are the icing on the cake and make you want to go back in time to try them in person.
Europe is not the one we know and also some facts not occurred in the same manner. I loved the way in which this book is the story combined with the fiction (in particular for the disappearance of Diesel).
And then there’s the Hex, a sort of enchantment devised by Archmages, which makes it unusable any firearm, one of the planes which serves to slow down the arrival of the war. But will this be enough to stop it really?

To this and all other questions, you can answer only by reading this well-written novel, which tells, in a totally alternative what would have happened in 1913 and especially the story between Ardis and Wendel.

Rating:


Recensione in italiano

Siamo nel 1913, Ardis, una mercenaria armata di una spada antica, si trova in un campo di battaglia innevato in Transilvania. Lavora per mantenere la pace, anche se questo comporta l’uccisione di numerosi ribelli che si oppongono all’impero d’Austria-Ungheria. Lì, tra le preghiere e i lamenti dei feriti, la sua attenzione viene attirata da un uomo disarmato, ben vestito e molto affascinante. Vorrebbe ucciderlo, ma Wendel, così si chiama l’uomo, è un negromante e uccidere un’abominazione del genere non è un’idea da considerare. E quando Ardis decide di risparmiargli la vita, Wendel le giura fedeltà.
Questo è solo l’inizio del loro viaggio, in giro per l’Europa e non solo, che li porterà a conoscere loro stessi più profondamente di quanto possano immaginare. La tensione tra i due è tangibile sin dalle prime pagine e sale in un crescendo fino a culminare nella città di Vienna.

Ardis e Wendel sono due personalità completamente diverse, ma anche molto simili. Entrambi portano le loro ferite più o meno celate, ferite che si possono ricondurre alle loro famiglie e alle loro esperienze di vita passate. Ardis è una persona determinata, conosce la morte, ma al tempo stesso ne è impaurita e il dono di Wendel la turba molto più di quanto possa esprimere in parole. Lui, invece, non ha mai chiesto di possedere un “talento” del genere, ne è spaventato almeno quanto Ardis, ma a differenza di lei ne è profondamente affascinato. Ma le poche somiglianze li uniranno o saranno le differenze a dividerli?
Sullo sfondo di quello che si prospetta essere uno dei maggiori conflitti mondiali, le loro vite si incroceranno più di una volta e molti segreti sul loro passato verranno rivelati.
La scena è rubata da questi due grandi personaggi, anche se devo fare una menzione particolare per Konstantin e il personaggio storico e non di Diesel. Se per il primo avevo inizialmente dei dubbi, dati una sorta di sesto senso, per il secondo ho avuto subito una forte empatia.

Parlando dell’ambientazione, Vienna fa essenzialmente da sfondo alla maggior parte della vicenda. Ma alla fine avremo un tocco di Oriente con Costantinopoli e anche un pizzico di Inghilterra. I viaggi in treno e sullo zeppelin, poi, sono la ciliegina sulla torta e fanno venir voglia di tornare indietro nel tempo per provarli in prima persona.
L’Europa non è quella che conosciamo e anche alcuni fatti che ricordiamo non si sono svolti nello stesso modo. Ho adorato il modo in cui in questo libro la storia si sia combinata con la finzione (in particolare per la scomparsa di Diesel).
E poi c’è l’Hex, una sorta di incantesimo ideato dagli Arcimaghi, che rende inutilizzabili qualsiasi arma da fuoco, uno dei piani che serve a rallentare l’arrivo della guerra.

A questa e a tutte le altre domande, potrete rispondere solo leggendo questo romanzo ben scritto, che racconta, in maniera del tutto alternativa quello che sarebbe potuto succedere nel 1913 e soprattutto la storia tra Ardis e Wendel.

Voto:

[Lori Palle · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Why is it…that I’m always finding you in the snow, alone, bleeding?”—Ardis

Ardis and Wendel are two damaged souls with low expectations when it comes to their life expectancy. Ardis is a mercenary who can never return home, and Wendel is an assassin and rare necromancer who lives for revenge. With a chance meeting on a snow-covered battlefield, two people with nothing to lose have everything to gain with each other—if their enemies don’t kill them first…

“I always kill first, ask questions later.”—Wendel

So…this is a new adult dieselpunk romance. Huh? I had no idea what dieselpunk meant before reading this book, and I assumed it meant something with machines and probably diesel(?!). Whatever—the synopsis sounded interesting so I went with it. Well, since I LOVED this book, I had to go look the term up; it means the era between WWI and end of WWII and combines features of the era with postmodern tech (thank you, Wikipedia!). Add in a necromancer and magic, and you get an awesome book. I don’t know if it’s the genre or just the author’s influence, but going off this book alone, I’m in love with new adult dieselpunk romance!

What’s in it that’s so great? Well, in this book, you get paranormal and horror elements with the necromancer, sword and sorcery fantasy elements since guns don’t work thanks to a magical hex, technomancy (using technology to mimic magic), great battle scenes, fantastic characterization, a great unpredictable storyline, a heart-wrenching love story (heat level about medium), and a writing style that draws you in—all with a European backdrop with the early 1900s feel. At times, it felt like I was watching an anime with sword fights, magic, wise-cracking characters, and mechas.

The hero and heroine remind me of Cat and Bones in Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress series in that they’re not perfect do-gooders but flawed and intriguing leads with a splash of anti-hero in them to give them extra kick. They’re murderers (or politely known as assassin and mercenary), but that’s the world they live in, and they do what they must do to survive, even if they don’t like it. And much like Cat and Bones’ initial meeting, Ardis and Wendel initially almost kill each other. And similarly, both couples end up finding a love not only are they willing to die for—they’re willing to try to survive for. The characterization is fantastic, and I could totally see how they fell in love. Secondary characters were great especially one that had a surprising attraction to one of our leads that I did not see coming. At all. And neither did one of the leads.

I was completely drawn into this story and the author’s poetic-at-times imagery. The mythology is great and the magical systems and political hierarchy are well-thought out and fascinating. The fight scenes were among my favorite scenes, although my absolutely favorite line in the entire book, which I can’t reveal since it would spoil the story, happened in such a poignant scene between Ardis and Wendel at the end. And speaking of the end, I was worried as I got closer that the story would end in a cliff-hanger, because I had no idea how anything would be resolved in such a short bit of book left! Instead, the ending was wonderful, and I would have been happy reading it as a standalone. Luckily, after reading the book, I double-checked and saw it’s the first in a series, and I can’t wait to read more about this world (and let’s face it, I’m now a dieselpunk fan!). This is a 5 out of 5 for me!

(Originally posted on my blog; I received a copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)

[Dragana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shadows of Asphodel attracted my attention immediately with a pretty cover. When I noticed it was a historical fantasy set in Europe, I knew had to read it.

LIKES

* Alternate history twists. Historical fantasy is one of my favorite genres, because it toys with historical facts and bends them. For example: as there were no guns (in the book), the assassination of the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo, that started the First World War, was conducted with a knife and, as one would expect, miserably failed.

* European setting. Too many books these days are set in the USA. Shadows of Asphodel was refreshing road trip around Europe with biggest focus on Vienna. I wish there were more descriptions of the scenery.

* Necromancy. I have read books about necromancers, but they usually have a lot of gruesome scenes. In spite of so many zombies shambling around, Shadows of Asphodel was very ‘clean’.

* Archmages and their technomancy gadgets. Mages are commonly used in speculative fiction and rarely someone surprises me and invents something new about them. Karen Kincy managed to do this. At first, I was disappointed that mages used machines instead of wands for their spells, but it really gave the additional steampunk-ish taste to the novel.

* Serbs are mentioned. I do a little happy dance whenever my country is featured in some foreign book. Serbian spies and Serbian king’s plots are briefly referenced in Shadows of Asphodel. Oh well, it was too much to hope we would be the good guys.

* Banter between Wendel and Ardis.

“Oh? You have secrets?” She raised her eyebrows at his teasing skepticism, then narrowed her eyes. “Please,” she said. “Are you actually that arrogant? The world’s supply of mystery doesn’t belong to you and you alone.”

DISLIKES

* Blushing. If I was in a drinking game based on how many times “a blush blazed across her face”or something similar is mentioned, I would have been drunk by the end of the third chapter. Ardis is bad-ass mercenary and all that blushing really didn’t fit her persona. At those times, it felt like she is some teenager role-playing.

* Insta-love. Wendel is a charming bad boy, so I understand the instant attraction that happened. But, falling head over heals for each other in less than 24 hours? Too much, too fast, too unbelievable…

* Chemistry was missing. Maybe the insta-love is to blame, but all those sexy scenes between Wendel and Ardis left me feeling …. cheated. Where were my sparks?

* He said / she said. Too many times sentences started this way. It really bothered me. Wonderful world Karen Kincy created could not enchant me. This weird quirk in Karen Kincy’s writing style could probably also be blamed for the fact that I didn’t feel the chemistry between characters.

She walked to him and took his face in her hands. She kissed him, tenderly. He deepened the kiss. When she grabbed his buttocks, he bucked against her, his hardness insistent. He stepped back, already breathing hard.

IN THE END…

Romance in Shadows of Asphodel didn’t work out for me, but I would still recommend it to steampunk and historical romance fans because it’s an interesting road trip around Europe with necromancers, mages who use machines and a lot of action.

Disclaimer: I received this ebook from publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. This text is also posted on my blog Bookworm Dreams in a little bit more styled edition.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadows of Asphodel is an adult diselpunk. This is the first diselpunk that I have encountered, and honestly I wasn’t really sure what the difference would be from steampunk. I think the main difference that I found was with the weaponry in the story. The story is set in a very turbulent time in history, and I really enjoyed the way Karen Kincy incorporated the historical events as they were occurring throughout the story. She used the real people and the real events and interspersed them throughout the story. Even though I was a history major, I have not read many historical fiction books, especially not ones with as much steamy romance or urban fantasy/diselpunk elements. I have to say it was a really interesting mix. I don’t think I have ever encountered a story quite like Shadows of Asphodel. And it’s unique-ness was my favorite thing about the story. I loved Karen’s ability to combine elements from different genres so flawlessly.

Ardis and Wendel are the two main characters of this story and they are quite the pair. Holy cow, they might be two of the most guarded characters that I have read about in a long time. Getting either one of them to talk about themselves or reveal anything was like pulling teeth. And they both had such intense pasts that a few times I just wanted to shake them until they told me everything. They threw each other for a loop because neither one of them behaved exactly like the other thought they would. Wendel wasn’t quite as evil or repulsive as Ardis imagined a necromancer would be, and Ardis actually gave Wendel the time of day. (well, after a little while anyways.) I liked how much they surprised each other. Whenever I pick up an adult novel, I am looking for some good romance. And Shadows of Asphodel was full of sexual tension. These two had it in spades. I really liked how they interacted with each other, romantically and otherwise. I don’t even know who I liked more. I started out liking Ardis more, but I think somewhere along the way Wendel won me over.

I am a huge character driven reader, so I liked how well developed the main characters were in Shadows of Asphodel, but the world building was really impressive as well. There was so much going on, and the setting felt like such a big scale because they were on boats and on trains and traveling all around. It felt like a global novel. (if that makes any sense.) The pacing for the most part was good. There was always a lot going on, so for the majority of the book it felt fast paced. But a couple of spots it lagged for me. Just for a couple of pages at a time though, and then I was swept right back up in the excitement of the story. This is certainly a series that I am interested in continuing. It’s hard for me to describe this book because it’s like a beautiful mashup of a bunch of different things. Karen Kincy took history and magic and the setting and everything else and wove it into an incredibly interesting and unique story.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Ardis and Wendel and their story - at heart a romance, but with lots of bloody action thrown in to spice things up. This story has been labeled by some as dieselpunk and I believe that description fits very well. I’m not really up on European history during that period, but it seems that many of the happenings and historical figures of the time before World War I have been utilized, along with some magic and fantastical inventions thrown in, to make a wonderfully interesting mix. Ardis is an American working as a mercenary in 1913 Austria-Hungary when she comes across a wounded Wendel on the battlefield. When she realizes he’s a necromancer, she decides helping him is in her best interests, and when he pledges his loyalty to Ardis for helping him, they strike up a tentative friendship. As they travel together, the handsome and charming Wendel proves to be deeply scarred from his upbringing and training by a society of assassins, the Order of Asphodel. Actually, both Ardis and Wendel have quite a lot of baggage, but they manage to work their way to trusting and caring for each other despite it all. There is constant danger from the assassins the Order keeps sending after Wendel, which they fight off in several bloody battles, but despite it all, the couple still manages to find a few quiet moments to further their relationship. I love a lot of action and the touches of romance added to my enjoyment, as well as the dieselpunk elements of magical swords, necromancy, airships, Hexes (which prevent guns from working) and automatons. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series, Storms of Lazarus, so I can see what happens next in this world.

[Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first experiences with dieselpunk. I love steampunk so I just knew this was something that I really needed to try. Throw in the fact that it came highly recommended by trusted blogging friends and you have yourself a sure thing.

And I really did love the imaginative world that the author created, not to mention the action packed non stop fun that was Shadows of Asphodel. Oh, and did I mention the steamy romance?

Ardis and Wendel were kick butt characters in their own right and couldn't have been more perfect for each other in almost every way. Both a little damaged and both left wondering about their family, background and abilities.

The author did a great job with the chemistry between the two, it was believable and filled with just enough tension and just enough action to back it up.

While this is a world we are not familiar with the author does a good job of not dumping a bunch of information on us all at once about how it works and how it is run. Instead we are told in small parts here and there about the Archmages and the Asphodel. Just enough to whet the appetite but still leave you with lots of questions that will hopefully be more fleshed out and answered in the second installment.

Instead of looking for all the answers right away we are swept up in the storyline and held captive by the action, romance and truths that are slowly unfolded and revealed.

This really did a great job of gaining my attention and holding on to it. I look forward to seeing where the author will take Ardis and Wendel in their next adventure together.

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't know what to expect when I bought this book but I was really impressed - If you are a fan of Marjorie M Liu's books you might enjoy this book, think Asian kick ass chick with a sword who can't resist bad boys. This has the potential for more books so we will wait and see!

[Chelsea Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping alternate history of World War I, filled with magic and swordfighting, steamy romance, and general badassery—a daring adventure you don't want to miss!

[AH]

7/30/14 - Kindle free download.

[Meigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming.

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good!!! If I could give this book 10 stars I would. The story kept you on the edge of your seat the whole time and I loved the h. Plus I'm a little in love with Wendel.

[charlotte, · Rating 2 out of 5]

dnf @ 10%

Rep: Chinese-American mc, bi li

[Jinan H · Rating 4 out of 5]

for more reviews please visit
https://allthecrannies.wordpress.com/

**I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much! This doesn’t affect the review in any way. My opinions, as always, are my own.**

Rating: 3.5 stars

PLOT

The battle was over and Ardis was walking through the battlefield when she comes across a gravely injured man. Given his lack of uniform, i.e not a soldier or one of the rebels they were fighting, Ardis concluded that he is a gentleman.

“My name is Wendel,” he said.
Ardis squinted at him. The battlefield seemed like an odd place for introductions.

Ardis is a mercenary so her first thought was to kill him, but when she saw how badly injured he was and she decided to take him as prisoner. Her plan came to a halt when the man grabbed a dead war dog’s paw and the dog rose from the dead and attacked her.

“A necromancer?” she said.
There was something remarkably similar to fear in his eyes but he smiled. “Yes”.

Turns out that Wendel is a necromancer, someone who can wake up the dead. They don’t become alive again, of course. Think something along the lines of The Walking Dead.

Necromancers aren’t only feared, they are looked upon with disgust as well. Needless to say, Ardis’s feelings towards the man weren’t very warm.

His skin felt warm and soft enough, like any other person’s. Not like a necromancer’s. She shuddered and wiped her hand on the snow The burning cold almost erased the feeling of having touched an abomination.

But she had heard rumors that if you killed a necromancer they will come back to life and hunt you. So she called a medic and asked him to heal Wendel. And because she saved his life, he swears fealty to her.

Ardis thinks nothing of this. She’s going to take him as prisoner then ask for a ransom. Until Wendel puts a stopper on her plans again by informing her that the people he works for will most likely kill her instead of giving her money.

Ardis had to go back to base of the archmages (the poeple whom she works for) and since Wendel had sworn loyalty to her she might as well take him along.

But Wendel insisted on keeping secrets and with assassins waiting for them at every turn Ardis didn’t imagine that her heart is going to get included in the formula. But it did.

THOUGHTS

This book starts with a bang. The action is straight on and I was hooked from the first page. Imagine reading a book where a dog is brought back to life and attacks the MC; you just know that you are going to love it.

Kincy has done excellent world building. The world is a mixture between steampunk and fantasy and paranormal. Those three genres are my absolute favorite so I enjoyed every second of the descriptions and automatons and magic and oh god I should stop now before I go into total fangirl mode.

The interactions between Ardis and Wendel are brilliant. Even when they were fighting I had to resist the urge to smile. Kincy sure knows how to write fantabulous dialog. It sounded real and spontaneous and not forced at all.

There was this one part that really needs to be mentioned because it almost made me cry (mind you it’s not very hard to make me cry while reading a book but still )

She pried open a tin of jasmine tea and brought it to her nose, the leaves soaked in the scent of flowers. Home. Her eyes welled with tears, and she looked away. The man offered her a cup to try.

This really hit me. I live far away from my home country too and many things that I smell, eat, and see remind me of it. My eyes tear up every time. I’m tearing up right now.

I also really appreciated that Wendel actually felt fear and panic. That made him way more human to me. Yes he’s strong. Yes he’s ruthless. But he’s human as well. He wasn’t overpowered or this person who is soo in control of himself it’s not even real.

I must say I was a bit let down, though. Ardis was a mercenary but, hmm how do I say this, she wasn’t bloodthirsty??? I expected this story to have more gore and badassery from her side but it was more on the romance side. I also had a serious serious WTF moment about the Walden-Konstantin relationship. I was totally weirded out at that part.

Another thing was when Ardis said everyone told her that she had a knack for languages then she mentioned that her German was bad, and that she never mastered French, and spoke broken Romanian. That doesn’t sound like having a ‘knack for languages’.

CHARACTERS

ARDIS (OR LADY OF THE FLAMING SWORD.)

Ardis is half chinese (yay for female characters of different ethnicities!) and speaks a multiple of languages (badly). She is independent and strong and doesn’t try to act like a man. She has long hair and she has nothing against having a romantic relationship unlike some other character we all know *cough* katsa *cough*. SO THANK YOU KAREN KINCY FOR THIS THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. I forgot to mention this but Ardis has a sword that bursts into flames when she removes it from its scabbard. HOW COOL IS THAT????

As I said before, I wished she was a teensy weensy more badass, alas, we can’t have everything.

WENDEL

Wendel is Mister I-shall-return-you-from-the-dead-so-I-can-control-you. He is also incredibly strong and swoon worthy and sarcastic and has one hell of an innocent face. Also he is shirtless a lot in the beginning so bonussss poinnnntsss. Basically, he’s my dream man. (Although I prefer that my The One has nothing to do with raising the dead thank you very much.)

Bottom Line

This book cured me from thinking that all authors believe that they have to make their female characters manly in order for them to be strong. I needed to read it to have my faith restored and now it is. *happy dance*. ……It also doen’t hurt that Wendel is a complete hotty……

Recommended to: Fans of light steampunk and fantasy and those who like their heroes to be ruthless but really adorable at the same time.

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1913, and Ardis is a young female mercenary working for the archmages of Austira-Hungary. She left her mother behind in America after killing a man in self-defense, and she carries her father’s sword, Chun Yi. It is the only thing left of him that she has, along with a lifetime of questions about why he never stayed, why he wouldn’t be a father to her. All she knows of him is that he called himself Leo and he has a distinct tattoo on the back of his neck.

The archmages work together to keep the world at peace. They are trying to keep the world from a war, but they are on a limited track of time. They have created this barrier in certain parts of the world called the Hex. This part of the world building was not very developed, but from what I could grasp about the Hex is that he can become damaged and have “holes” in it, just like we have holes in the Ozone. The Hex is a magical protection, wherein some types of deaths cannot occur. If you try to shoot someone with a gun, the Hex impedes that from happening. A bullet will never leave the muzzle.

Ardis is just returning from a mission, and stumbles into Wendel, dying in the snow. When she realizes he is a necromancer and can raise the dead, which could cause monstrous proportions, she does everything she possibly can to save him. In turn, he grants fealty to her for saving his life…if only the short train ride to Vienna.

Wendel reached into his coat and drew the black dagger, With a hissing whisper, tendrils of smoke crawled from Amarant and curled around his arm, his body, his face. His outline faded to nothing more than a shadow. Ardis’s breath snagged in her throat.

Also on their train is an archmage, Konstantin. The archmages are known for their disgust and near-hatred of necromancers. Despite Ardis’s attempts to keep Wendel out of Konstantin’s sight, it all comes out eventually…and when they return to Vienna, Ardis must answer to an archmage about why she took on a necromancer. At that point, I thought Konstantin nothing but a snooty little tattletell with a stick up his butt impeding his brain from realizing he wasn’t as important ans he thought he was. But I was so very, very wrong, yet again.

On this journey, Ardis learns that Wendel is a member of the Order of the Asphodel, a secret society that operates in parallel to the archmages, who have vowed never to officially interfere in Asphodel business. Throughout the book I never got a clear distinction of how the Asphodel formed, or for what purpose, but I did clearly feel they were not to be messed with.

“The truth of my life,” he said, “will die with me, as it does with us all. And my memories will fade as my bones grow old, and I will live on only in the memories of those who cared that I should not be forgotten.”

That’s where Wendel sits in the big wide world of 1913 – running from the Asphodel, and now Ardis is swept up into his escape…but the Asphodel reach far and wide, and they are bent on sticking together.

The relationship that Wendel and Ardis form is one that at first is beyond comprehension but grows and develops as Ardis peels layers away and discovers more and more about Wendel and his past life. He is a man who is stuck in a very dangerous situation, between a rock and a hard spot. He knows exactly who Ardis is after she reveals what little she knows of her father, but Ardis knows so very little about Wendel, except that he will kill all of the Asphodel, even up to the head honcho the Grandmaster.

“Ardis,” he said, “somebody always has to die.”

Ardis learns that Wendel comes from a house of royalty, although he never divulges which house or family. Ardis and Wendel work with Konstantin and discover so much more about the archmages and the military plans that are developing. Konstantin send them on a mission to create a diversion at a ball and obtain the blueprints he needs, and things go horribly wrong. Arids discovers Wendel’s lineage (squee!) and must fight to save him…in a ballgown…with no sword.

No matter what happens, Ardis sticks by Wendel’s side, even if it is in detriment to her working relationship and friendship with Konstantin and puts them all in danger. It’s made clear over and over that she will follow him anywhere, and she will die for him from the situations she puts herself in.

This was bizarre — teatime at two o’clock in the morning, with a necromancer and an archmage.

At some point in the book, I had an epiphany. This book and the two main characters parallel one of my absolute favorite’s – Outlander by Diana Gabaldon – in so many ways in the most basic sense. The plot, the time period, the magic, is different, of course, but these two characters – even the way they meet – and their journey together is so very similar to the journey that Claire and Jamie experience in Outlander. I was blown away by this realization, and even though they are similar in those regards – I LOVED this book.

What we crave to know as readers come bit by bit throughout Shadows of Asphodel, and we learn exactly what the Asphodel has done to Wendel, and who the Grandmaster is. It is a book filled with twists and turns as Ardis and Wendel fight to stay steps ahead of the Asphodel, and what they learn about the archmages and Wendel’s life as a necromancer.

The book ended with a perfect set-up for the next book, and I am so curious to see how that will play out. I am also imagining all manner of scenarios about Ardis and Wendel’s relationship in context of his royal lineage, and what role that will take in the next book.

To sum it all up: this will be a series that I purchase, and will go on the bookshelf with my most favorite books, to have to read and re-read for years to come. Ardis and Wendel are a journey that will never grow old or tiring.