Of Darkness and Light

By J.S. Riddle

Of Darkness and Light is the follow up book to Rise of a Queen, part of The Vampire Realm series. Where Rise of a Queen tells the tale of Tessa's struggles and defeats, the introduction of Tessa’s family brought forth a new tale to tell.

The rise of Tessa’s empire came at a cost. Her vision of a future where vampires and humans lived united had all but disappeared. Her family, torn by the wars that ravaged her land, had to choose a side. Her sister and Emma with the rebels and Jason growing into his future by Tessa’s side. Emma’s struggle with her own choices, as Jason moves forward towards a life of service to his aunt, neither one sure of the outcome. The journey that the family takes will force the evolution of life as a vampire to the forefront, forever changing Tessa’s perspective on the world she thought she knew. Can Tessa survive another daunting war while ensuring the future of the vampires? Will Jason and Emma make the right choices and not be swayed by the childhood they once knew? Can either side of the war overcome what stands in their way, even when what they love is what they will lose? Will Jason and Emma make the right choices and not be swayed by the childhood they once knew? Can either side of the war overcome what stands in their way, even when what they love is what they will lose? Or will there be a beacon of hope; shining brightly in the world that has fallen so dark.​

• Language: English
• Publisher: J.S. Riddle
• Release date: Oct 8, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311169990

J.S. Riddle

I have been writing since I was a teenager. I will always remember my first typewriter. An old manual mint green from the 50's that I got at a consignment shop for about $20. It is well worth more than that now, but to me it is priceless. All my dreams and ideas typed out in perfect script letters. I love reading, it is such an adventure to do so. my favorite authors are Stephen King, Anne Rice, Edgar Allen Poe, William Shakespeare, J.R.R. Tolkien,I credit Robin McKinley and The Hero & the Crown for my idea of woman empowerment. In my spare time (this is where you say "what? you've got to be joking) Where is this book we're going to get and how fast are you working on its sequel?" more further down) I also enjoy watching movies and playing video games. Give me a little horror, action, and comedy over romance and we're golden, unless you're looking for the bleh factor then you're in for a nauseating ride. I do live long and prosper while adhering to the pulls of the force. I have been waiting for a man in a blue box but have a feeling he won't come visit me until Sherlock makes his 3rd appearance. So maybe I'd be better off exploring the vast web of the Whedonverse. I have a feeling I will survive the zombie apocalypse, but I don't know what I'd do when the vampires take over the world. Would I chose humanity and death or become one of the vampires to only live forever with their dark and evil ways. Survival horror games have given me the strength and practice to overcome at least the first. If I want to immerse myself into a fantasy world RPG's are the best to go but they tend to come far and few these days.If you haven't gathered, I am what most people consider a geek, but I think in a more fun, quirky way.

Book preview

Of Darkness and Light

Book 2 of the Vampire Realm series

J.S. Riddle

Copyright 2015 J.S. Riddle

The right of J.S Riddle to be identified as author of this Work has been asserted by her in accordance with sections 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system, copied in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise transmitted without written permission from the publisher. You must not circulate this book in any format.

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this ebook with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

The muse, a beautiful helpful whirlwind, brought forth such inspiration

I want to give tremendous thanks to K, Tiffany, Janice, and Amber for taking time to make this book the best if could possibly be

PROLOGUE

Pain, grief, and agony echoed through the halls of my self-made fortress of solitude. As time ticked on it felt as though years had come to a standstill. The more I reach out to humanity the more like a vampire I become.

The rebels became more defiant than ever before, somehow, I'm certain my sister was the cause of it all. Even with the joining of the two clans, Levé's and Krones, we seemed to be at a disadvantage; although I dare not say that to the Nation.

The Vampire Nation held me and my people (or shall I say Greco's people, for I have not lived up to his grandeur as of yet) in very high regard. We were the ones who toppled and destroyed an unjust tyranny plaguing the land. Once the Krones were destroyed, or integrated into the Levé society, it seemed the future held strong for vampires for a while; peace amongst the clans once again.

There had to be some way I could finally snuff out the resistance that had been biting at my ankles for far too long. If left unattended, I knew it could spread like a pestilence through the land, destroying all that we have striven for. I just wasn't certain how I was to go about that very thing. I had all my strategists working on a permanent solution while my soldiers kept them at bay as well as they could.

Drake had been at the helm of all the planning. He seemed as frustrated as I in regard to the rebels. I trusted him fully, although I'm not sure that would do him any good. He needn't mind what I thought, for he had been doing the job of a super-soldier longer than I could ever imagine.

I suppose I overstated things when I called this my fortress of solitude. I'm hardly alone, although it seems as such sometimes. Life, death, and, of course, vampire surround me in a swirling shroud of confusion. Too many pieces to a puzzle that had yet to be completed.

The inter-working of this so-called fortress remains in constant motion like a hive full of bees. Each had their little task to do. My role was evident and the lifeless blood that kept this place running. My advisors (or knights, guides, consultants, legion, whatever one would choose to call them) play an intricate part in my hive, especially Vala who has stepped up bravely in keeping my reign supreme in the old Krone territory. Of course they are my kindred, my proud blood siblings. They each play their part well and it is because of them that I strive so hard to make things work.

Then there are the humans; the servants, the slaves, the livestock. A purpose with each, for the human life is quite precious. If not for them, my kind would never exist. We were born human (most of us anyway, even though I have yet to meet a true blood) and delivered into an elite society. We need humans. As long as they live and breathe we survive through their gift of blood.

Of course there is my family, my human family. They are an intrigue of their own. Their entire existence intertwines with mine. If it were not for my stubborn sister we would have never met. She blames me for the rebellious movement. As far as I am concerned she is so determined to wipe me off the face of this earth that nothing will stand in her way. Because of this she leads her armies to war, leaving her children in harm’s way.

At least my nephew, Jason, has grown into a fine young man. He sees the error in what she is doing. His one wish is for us to coexist, which of course had been my plight for quite some time. His loyalty unwavering and he has been taking his job as protector of his charge, my daughter, seriously.

Of course, now that I am concentrating on my nephew, his sister pops into my mind. That stupid girl. As much as I love her, the pain of watching her grow up despising me can sometimes be unbearable. We haven't spoken in quite some time, and I could only take solace that she is being watched quite carefully. What to do, what to do?

Her uncle (once my lover and the father of my child) had pretty much given up on her. In all honesty, I think giving up is one thing he seemed to be good at. Every trace that I saw of him being strong through my memories, tend remind me of his weaknesses. He is a good father. At least he tries considering the circumstances. He loves Ariana with every thread of his being. I even believe his love for me has continued even as our connection has wavered. He is quite a good lover, though. Occasionally, I revisit the one thing I just refuse to give up from my human life. But the certainty of us becoming strong again is hard to tell. I'm sure he is only there in body, not in mind, or dare I say, soul.

The future of this family, my legacy, weighs heavy on my mind. Even more so the future of my clan, the entire vampire race seems to have been put in my hands. The only real hope, though, is Ariana awakening and ruling by my side, bringing this world, and our races, together as my vision once was.

CHAPTER ONE

Sitting back in her chair Tessa glanced into the corner where her future lay quietly asleep. Her daughter looked like a heavenly angel sent from a benevolent god of old. Her eyes peacefully closed in blissful slumber. She looked like any ordinary six year old, harmless and vulnerable to the world that surrounded her.

As if sensing her thoughts, Ariana stirred quickly, sat up and looked at Tessa with her deep ocean of a stare. What's wrong mother? She asked with such a sweet, tender, soulful tone.

Oh nothing of any bother. Just the weight of the world on my shoulders. Her sense of humanity seemed to phase the child none, because she just traipsed over and leaned against her.

You can use my shoulders too if you think that it will help. It was almost like she knew her purpose on the earth. Tessa felt a pride and hope that had been docile for far too long. It was only a tiny seed, though, barely taking root in the desert of her heart. The reality was far too harsh to think positively, at least for the moment.

Good evening. Isaac said quietly from the doorway.

Daddy! Ariana squealed with delight. She ran to him and gave him an enormous hug.

Tessa watched silently and pondered. There were so many human qualities to her daughter, she wondered if she would ever be able to relate to the vampires.

Tessa. Isaac greeted with a nod. Good to see you. It's been a while.

Tessa agreed. Yes, it has. It was true. She hardly had been around when Isaac would come to spend time with their daughter. Part of it was her busy schedule. The other was to simply avoid him. She only interacted with him when she requested he visited her chambers. They had drifted further apart since she had come home triumphant. She had returned a different being, someone not quite as human as she had behaved in the past. It was as if her eyes were opened to more reality and less fantasy. The fantasy was that she could live like a human; live, laugh, love, and all would be okay. The reality was that vampires were ruthless, fearless rulers, and humans were just their subjects. She couldn't just sit on the fence, she had to own up to her responsibilities and what she was.

It wasn't that she no longer hoped for a brighter future and more human equality. It was more like she knew it would be a gradual change closer to a snail’s pace. She had to wait to see if Ariana would truly help in the cause or amount to nothing more than being her offspring, no matter how miraculous it all was. Until that time her soul hardened and her heart was locked away from any emotional attachment she might have with the child.

That change is what separated Tessa and Isaac. He grew tired of her progressing coldness and opened his eyes to what she really was. Over the years, his loved faded to a trickle. He wasn't even sure how it progressed. He decided that it was best for all to focus on his family.

Tessa took notice of his quiet separation and came to the conclusion it really was for the best. She did not have time to be emotionally entwined in a romantic situation and called off their occasional visits.

Her governess will be here momentarily, but you can spend time with Ariana until she arrives. She finally spoke, a cold taste lingering with her words.

Isaac picked Ariana up and held her in his arms. Is this all I'm going to get to spend with her? He complained.

She has lessons to attend. They don't just stop with you just willing it to do so.

She is six! He raised his voice. What kind of lessons does she really need?

Tessa edged closer and said sternly, Hold your tongue.

I will not! He stood his ground She is my daughter and I don't think that she should be taking lessons so seriously yet. She should be having fun, with both of her parents.

Tessa looked at Isaac harshly and then she barked an order at Ariana, Little one, come to me. The child nodded and kissed her dad on his cheek before she climbed into her mother’s arms. I want you to go into the next room and select what toys you will be taking with you.

Okay, Mother. She squirmed down and ran into the other room.

Tessa turned to Isaac. Might I remind you that you have no authority in this matter. She paused. Actually, you have no authority in anything.

Isaac's cheeks grew red with frustration. Seriously? You're going to play that card? His temper flared even hotter. You have already cut yourself off from me, I hardly get to see my little girl, and when I do it is only for a few minutes at a time. What has happened to you that you've grown so void of emotion?

Tessa looked him over. I'm just being who I am supposed to be. I failed when I got too close to you, and for that I'm sorry. She stood up straight. You have to realize that all of this is for the greater good; every last bit of it.

How? By taking away your daughter's childhood?

She shook her head. She is more than just a child. She has to be taught the ways of the vampire. She learns extremely fast so of course I want to encourage that. An even colder look grew on her face. But why do I have to explain anything to you? At this point you have become nothing but an inconvenience and I warn you now to not become a hindrance any longer or I will remove you from her life completely.

I thought you wanted to keep her in human company? What happened to that? He attempted to dissuade her.

Jason and her have grown quite close. He is much more the embodiment of humankind than you are.

What's that supposed to mean? He felt quite stung by her words.

She gritted her teeth and sighed. Only that he is the right amount of everything. She raised her hands in frustration, But why am I even explaining this to you? She pointed at him, You do as I say and that is the end of it. I am at rope’s end with you, always trying to pull out the Tessa that you want; the weak and emotional one. I'm not going to let you manipulate me anymore. She paused and gathered her composure. Now as I said before, you can spend time with her until the governess comes, then you will be excused.

Isaac nodded in defeated submission. That last piece of his heart shattered inside of him. He began to head toward the playroom when Tessa put her hand on his chest and looked into his sad eyes. When I get back we will have to sit down and discuss your reassignment. She didn't leave time for him to respond and instead quickly walked out the door.

* * * * *

The car door was open by one of Tessa's servants as she slid onto the leather seat next to Vala. I take it your trip was satisfactory? She asked as the door shut behind her.

Vala nodded with an air of confidence that surrounded her. Her duty as the head of the old Krone territory laid solely with her.

Have you gotten the palace prepared for my arrival? Tessa had not been in Krone territory since her encounter with Liana. She felt there was no real need to tempt fate more than she had to. She was also not keen to drudge up old memories. Vala had been doing a great job running the territory herself.

Of course. Things are exactly as you specified.

And the Krones?

Most of them have been submissive, they realize the true authority."

What about the others? Tessa asked.

Vala looked awkwardly to the side, Those that weren't put to death escaped through the northern route into Strega territory, I believe.

You believe? Tessa asked for more detail.

Well. The further north we go, the more isolated it becomes. It makes it really hard to do an extensive search, especially as daylight burns most of the day away.

Tessa nodded. That's right. The Northern Hemisphere is known to be vampire hell for at least three months or longer due to the sunlight shining most of the day. She muttered then shrugged her shoulder. Let them be Viktor's problem, for the time being. She then turned to Vala once again. What of the remaining humans?

Well, it is mixed news. There seems to be no sign of a rebellion taking place. I'm not really certain there ever was.

Well, that does seem to be good news.

But... She continued. It seems that two thirds have been eradicated. Those who weren't were thrown into the mass prisons.

They imprisoned all the humans? Tessa questioned.

Most of them. Each and every one of them sits filthy in the prison waiting their turn for the bloodletting.

No house servants? The subject was being processed in Tessa's mind. The last time she was there she could have sworn there were a few humans. Was it not a human’s body she inhabited for a time being?

None. They seem to prefer third class vampires to humans for slaves. Elitism at its finest.

Tessa scratched her head. Why is this the first time that I'm hearing any of this? She grew frustrated. Things had obviously changed since Desdemona's time. Until that moment, she hadn't realize how much the power had really shifted to Liana.

The Krones were bending so easily to Levé rule that I really was quite grateful. I thought that maybe we could slowly work our way into it. Of course there is another reason.

Well spit it out. Tessa grew impatient.

It is rather apparent that all progress and communications are being monitored by the council. The last thing that I wanted was for them to deem you an unruly leader.

Very good judgment. I appreciate your concern. She smiled and realized that her victory was holding. She knew the next stage needed to be set. I think I will journey to the palace in a weeks’ time. I want you to inform the Levé council that each and everyone need be present. I think we need to start appointing new regional heads, don't you?

Vala tilted her head then nodded. I think that would be wise. To spread out the power amongst regions will keep an eye on all of them.

Did you enjoy your position in the palace?

As much of an honor that it has been, I am by far a worthy leader. I much prefer being in your company. Vala said honestly then added, But if you wish for me to continue I would be more than happy to do as you ask.

Tessa shook her head. No need. I think you will be more beneficial by my side. I am stepping up my search for the rebels to try to weed them out. I'm wanting you to join in that sweep. She said. Not waiting for an answer, she used the intercom in the back of the car to address the driver. Take us to the prison.

Yes ma'am. He said as he sped towards their destination.

CHAPTER TWO

Once they arrived, Tessa and Vala were escorted inside the prison walls. It was where they kept and tortured rebels and their sympathizers. Tessa had been informed that they had just caught a small group near her compound preparing to place bombs. They were getting bolder and she had to put a stop to it.

She passed through checkpoint after checkpoint of the old maximum security prison built when the humans still ruled the world. It had become a full rebel jail recently, with many means of torture. There had been a time when she wouldn't have condoned any of the actions that were taking place let alone suggest such a medieval form of gathering Intel, but she felt as though she had no choice.

She entered the final corridor and hurried into the observation room. Inside stood a few guards looking through a one way window. Before she saw anything, she heard a loud bang. Immediately she looked through the glass to see that a chair had been smashed against the wall of the next room. She observed Bade giving the old inquisition to a young human. The man's face was white with fear; he was far too young to outlast Bade.

After Tessa watched for a few more minutes, she turned toward the two guards, that she had utterly ignored until that point. Report. She ordered sternly.

Both scrambled to attention quickly. Yes, your Highness. One of them shuffled through a stack of unkempt papers as the other nervously avoided his leader’s cold expression.

The one searching through the papers finally found what he was looking for and he cleared his throat. Late last night, a band of rebels were apprehended before setting off a bomb at the edge of your compound. Bade has been questioning them to see what kind of information they may have.

Tessa rolled her eyes like a teenager. That is evident. I knew about the capture. It is why I'm here. Tell me something I don't know.

He nodded and with even more nervousness shuffled through the papers in his hands. There were four males and three females spanning the ages of fifteen to forty-two.

Tessa pointed into the room. And this one?

This is David. I believe he is in his twenties.

Hmm. Have we been successful with him or the other captives?

Not yet, but Bade feels strongly that this one will break quite soon.

Does he now? Tessa thought inquisitively for a moment. She turned quickly out the door and slowly entered the prisoner's room. Bade looked at her with surprise. He immediately left the room when she motioned for him to depart. The young man chained to the desk was frozen with fear. He looked at her with eyes as wide as a trapped animal.

Now, now. You can relax for a moment. She said in a soft tender tone. He immediately relaxed and his eyes began to look somewhat normal again. I do apologize, he seems to forget that you are only human. As effective as he may be at gathering information, his bedside manner is something that needs work.

Tessa sat down after she realized that David was giving her his full attention. I am going to have to ask you some questions.

He shook his head and blurted out, "As I told that crazy beast, I don't know anything."

Come now, you can't have me believing that. You have to know something. You weren't just handed explosives and told where to place them were you? She prodded.

It was something like that. He looked down in shame.

How much 'like that' was it then? She asked as he stayed silent. David. She said as she touched his chained hand gently. He twitched for a moment at the sheer touch of her cold fingers. You can trust me. You don't have anything to fear from me.

It's not you. He said, still looking down.

So who is it? Were you being threatened? Blackmailed?

I just got in over my head.

So you weren't really a part of the rebels? She asked.

David looked around nervously. I kind of joined up before knowing what they wanted me to do.

Tessa studied him for a moment and then grinned. So did she convince you to join? You liked her didn't you? She was going on a hunch.

Tonya? Yeah I did... but how did you...? He was shocked.

Tessa, having realized the situation, saw Tonya deceiving David as a rebel's standard operating procedure. It's the oldest trick in the book. She leaned forward. Let me guess, once you started getting involved with her cause she either grew colder or all out disappeared; making you try harder for her affection?

She stopped showing interest, yeah. He looked saddened. But she never gave me too much detail. Only an objective.

Ah yes, the objective you were going to accomplish to win her heart. She began to bend his vulnerability to her advantage. Are you sure she didn't mention anything to you? No matter how small of a detail it might be?

He shook his head. Sorry, no.

Tessa sighed and stood up, motioning to the window. Bade come and get him. Take him to his cell. He knows nothing and therefore is useless to me. Her faux empathy left as quickly as it came.

David's eyes widened at the thought of another round with Bade. Wait, wait! He screamed then Tessa quickly turned around. She lifted her hand to signal her loyal one to halt. Why are you asking me this? Why aren't you talking to her? She was brought in with us, wasn't she?

Is this true? Tessa yelled through the glass.

One of the guards was heard on the intercom. There was one woman who refused to talk; she wasn't registered in our system.

Without saying a word, she exited the room and met with Bade and Vala in the hall. She turned towards Bade and asked, Is what he said true?

There is a possibility the unknown woman could be the one he speaks of. Unfortunately, I have only just begun my interrogations.

It seems as though this David is a weak link and we should use him to our advantage. Tessa's inner workings ticked like an old clock.

How do you propose we do that? Vala asked.

She thought for a bit of time then finally looked towards Bade. Go get the young woman they were speaking of and bring her here. He nodded and fled down the hall. She turned back around. Vala come with me.

Tessa led her back into the room where the young man's face was poised in despair. Is there any possible way that you would help me get some information from this Tonya?

He shook his head. I don't see how I could, but even if I were capable I wouldn't want to betray her. Loyal little puppy, she thought.

Oh, so it is okay for her to lie, cheat, and betray you, but somehow you still want to protect her? Is your false love that strong? She pointed out.

He shed tears. My love is real and it is strong.

Aww. Tessa mocked. Too bad she doesn't return the feeling. You're just a number to her, nothing but a recruit.

That angered the man. Not true! He pulled on his chains.

David I want you to go with Vala into the room on the other side of the glass for a moment.

'What for?" He seemed confused.

So I can open your eyes and reveal what you refuse to take notice of. That was all that she told him.

Vala unchained David and drug him into the viewing room. David stood silent as Tonya was brought into the interrogation room. He wanted to speak, but Vala had threatened to cut out his tongue if he did so.

Have a seat. Tessa pointed to the chair.

Tonya stopped in defiance until Bade drug her to the table and chained her, like the criminal she was. So the big Juggernaut couldn't break me so he felt like letting a little girl give it a go? Her tongue was venomous, her eyes full of hatred.

Bade was about to bring a hard slap to her face when Tessa motioned him away once again. Tessa laughed. Little girl. She nodded with amusement. I haven't been called that in a very long time. Quite a sense of humor you have there.

Glad you enjoyed it. Tonya scoffed. So what can I do for you? She defiantly stared Tessa down for a moment before Tessa glared back heavily. Before Tonya knew it, she looked away in fear of being controlled, although her will was strong.

Hmm, for starters I would like to ask for any information you can give me regarding your mission, your superiors, and your camps.

Tonya laughed and replied, Is that all? Another big laugh. Well since you asked so nicely... She leaned forward and waited for Tessa to edge in then yelled, Fuck you and your blood sucking parasites! I'll never tell you anything. I would rather die than help you. We are going to wipe you off the face of this planet. Her screams echoed throughout the room.

Okay, believe in your fantastical lies. It will be your undoing. But I wouldn't want to satisfy you with death just yet. The party has only begun. By the time we are through with you, you will be pleading for death. The Queen responded with what sounded much more than a simple threat.

I'm much stronger than you think. Tonya scoffed and looked to the side.

Tessa took that as a challenge. Are you now? How about you prove it to me? She smoothly eased next to Tonya, who had begun to sweat profusely, nervousness setting in. But first I have a question for you. She paused. Do you know who I am? She grabbed Tonya's cheeks and forced her to look into her eyes.

Does it matter? Asked the stubborn captive.

Oh clearly it does, because I want you to know who will be your executioner. She searched deep for the soul within the woman.

Tonya shook her head as much as she could, being in such a tight grasp.

You just happened to be in the presence of royalty. Tessa stated.

You? You're the Queen? Sarcasm dripped heavily in her tone. You look as harmless as a child.

Harmless? Tessa mulled the insult. Wow, that kind of hurt. I have a reputation to uphold and you come up with harmless? Tessa let go of Tonya's face.

All the things they tell me must be made-up stories. No way could you have led such blood bath victories. Tonya revealed.

The remark made Tessa laugh. And from where did you learn these 'stories'? How are you not taking the things you've heard as fact?

Tonya looked away and Tessa edged even closer. Do I seem childish? Do I appear frail to you? She still had no response so she grabbed her cheeks again, much

Reviews for Of Darkness and Light

[lynnb_64 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is the story of George Webb, failed police officer turned private detective. His life has been turned around by one case: the murder of Mr. Nash by his wife. Mrs. Nash hired George to follow her husband, who was cheating on her. George was drawn to her, and two years later, is still totally wrapped up in her life. Graham Swift has done an outstanding job of painting a picture of George: his personality, hopes, fears and longings. The book takes place over a single day, but with flashbacks to cover George's life. The writing is fast-paced, even though this is primarily a character study. It definitely made me want to read more by this author.

[samsheep_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I gave this four stars because....I was engaged, I liked it, I kept reading, some beautiful turns of phrase, some interesting characters. It had the quality feel to it. BUT sometimes it dragged - he really spun it out a bit too much, the pacing not quite what it could be. Also a silly small thing that really grated on me - the way that he used "sweetheart" a lot when speaking to her in prison. Somehow jarred with the rest of it.

[adrianburke_1 · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

No. I cannot get on with this. Reading it is like listening to two radio stations at the same time. Two much cross interference. And really I feel the complication is all to do with the method of telling rather than anything else. One long fragmented flashback is intercut into a boring car trip. Did not finish. Life being too short.

[coyote99_1 · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

What an awful book. Mesmerized by his own words, Swift manages to spin ever slower circles around events we already know happen with needless jumps forward and backward. Early on he decides that his tale has so little merit that his only chance is to make his narrative so confusing that the reader may mistake obfuscation for brilliance. A complete waste of time.

[booklistener · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I have mixed feelings on this book. Author painted a very convincing picture and the imagery sticks with me. On the other hand, it did seem the story moved excruciatingly slowly at times. He would dwell for a long time on the mood of a scene and then, almost in passing, mention key plot details.

[sanddancer_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Amazing! It plays with the conventions of the detective story and romance. We find out almost immediately who committed the crime, and the rest of the book is about piecing together the events that led up to it, all seen from the point of view of a detective, who has fallen in love with the murderer. That summary doesn't really do it justice. It is about relationships, secrets and love - all big themes, but it is beautifully written and griping.

[gocam_4 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Moderately more engaging than watching a slow paint dry, the book nonetheless explodes very occasionally with flashes of incendiary writing. 'Light of Day' indulges for most of its length in endless, insistent, circular, inevitable, here-again/there-again repetition surrounding a violent act that puzzles and initially intrigues and the back story detailing how our private detective protagonist ended up 'the man he is' - using a series of flash-back and -forward sequences we are led through a life that collides in a conclusion that should satisfy but rather stultifies . The form does tend to pull Webb's plight and life arc into tight focus, but honestly neither make for particularly engaging reading. As a treatment of a slow-burning drift into insular obsession the novel succeeds in generating a modicum of sympathy, but little more. Swift can write tremendously compelling almost poetic sequences (particularly when detailing the relationship with his daughter, and a cop whom he faces as nemesis then acquaintance), but they are buried deep in far too many words describing far too slight of a narrative where, frankly, there is little to care about. In reading this book I found myself at one point reminded of the power of selective repitition in Edwin Morgan's "In the Snack Bar" - a poem that achieves more in a few hundred words than this novel does in its entirety. Disappointing as I had high expectations after a punchy opening chapter, and having enjoyed "Last Orders".

[cliffagogo · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ex-cop and private detective George Webb reflects on his past and revisits his old relationships, to find meaning in recent tragic events. The author’s knack for readable, believable dialogue makes for a compelling, addictive novel that pleases from start to finish. This, mixed with an incredible sense of structure and atmosphere, places Swift head and shoulders above the competition.

[piefuchs · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A good book that failed to live up to the high expectation I had developed for this author based upon Last Orders.