Helpful Score: 4
this book was not at all what i had expected from Hamilton...while interesting, it was pretty gruesome, was NOT a romance like her others, and didnt have a satisfying ending. it is more of a YA book than an adult book also. Still, maybe that's just me.
Helpful Score: 4
I've read Laurell Hamilton's Anita Blake series, but was in the mood for something a little different. I picked this one up and wasn't sure if I was going to like it. The plot is a little slow and the ending wasn't quite what I expected. Not one of her best works, but if your lookinf for a Hamilton book that is a little out of the norm, the characters are developed rather well. But the story could have used a little more at the end.
Helpful Score: 4
I really loved this book ... for the first 280 pages or so. Then it became very disturbing. Normally I like disturbing (why else would you read LKH?), but the last few chapters raise tons of questions that are never answered, and the ending is very abrupt. I finished this book with a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach, and was very disappointed.
Also be aware that this is *not* a new LKH series. It's not even a new book - the original version was published in 1995. "Ravenloft" is a campaign in "Dungeons and Dragons" and back in the 80s/90s several authors wrote books that take place within that universe. I've only read a few of them, but my understanding is that they are stand alone books that take place within the larger context of the Ravenloft world (the Demiplane of Dread).
If you're a fan of LKH it may be worth the read, but I wouldn't suggest spending money on it.
Also be aware that this is *not* a new LKH series. It's not even a new book - the original version was published in 1995. "Ravenloft" is a campaign in "Dungeons and Dragons" and back in the 80s/90s several authors wrote books that take place within that universe. I've only read a few of them, but my understanding is that they are stand alone books that take place within the larger context of the Ravenloft world (the Demiplane of Dread).
If you're a fan of LKH it may be worth the read, but I wouldn't suggest spending money on it.
Nymphadora T. (nymphadora) reviewed Death of a Darklord (Ravenloft Covenant 1) on + 95 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Okay, just so you know I'm not crazy, my boyfriend read this book as well and he agrees that the story concept started out promising but the ending absolutely sucks. LKH really is not that great of a writer when taken out of her Anita Blake element, so she tries to compensate with a grotesque turn of events and an ending that will just make you mad. I would never recommend this book, but I do hope someone wants to challenge me on my opinion so I can get it off of my shelf.
Helpful Score: 2
Laurell K. Hamilton is a great writer, her stories draw you in. This one included. However, it is dark. The majority of the book is captivating, but it does go very dark. If you are a true fan, it's worth the read.
