Exina's Reviews > Kiss of a Demon King

I have to admit that in the Immortals After Dark series I liked Kiss of a Demon King the least.

It has many positive aspects, but also many, many things I disliked about it.

First, I was forced to reread what I have already known about the world of the Lore. Although very important information was also offered, such as the story of Sabine and Melanthe, facts about the world of the Sorceri, and how Omort had taken over Castle Tornin, it is too long, too detailed, and descriptive. Nothing happens, and there is no action in this part.

Rydstrom is chained to the bed through almost 130 pages! There is no suspense as he is chewing over his lost crown, his relationship to his brother Cadeon – although it is nice to see how Rydstrom relates to him –, and whether Cade gets the sword or not. Since I’ve read the books of the series in order, I’ve already known that Cade succeeds. Before reading, I assumed this book starts at the point in time (or a little bit earlier) when Cadeon’s book ends. But no. I’ve waited for Cadeon and the sword’s arrival for 335 pages!
I was a little bit disappointed in Rydstrom, I expected more humor, and less rigor. I didn’t feel his character close to me.

I sympathized with Sabine and Lanthe very much. Their life was so hard, and painful, and they are still living in continuous threat. Sabine’s behavior is understandable. I loved to follow her emotional journey. Lanthe has a great sense of humor, and I hope she has her own book as well.

Omort, as the antagonist, is perfectly drawn as well, because I hated him with all of my heart.

The highlight of the story is the appearance of Nïx and her friends – not a surprise.

“Kill me, Valkyrie?” Sabine scoffed. “I can make you see things that will turn your brain to soup.”
“A-gain,” Nïx sighed, unfazed by the threat.
Sabine probed the Valkyrie’s mind, finding easy access- With a stifled gasp, Sabine just as rapidly withdrew her probe. Chaos, utter chaos.
“Welcome to my world!” Nïx said with an exaggerated wink.

The sibling story-lines are elaborated thoughtfully. I loved to see the strong bond and love between Sabine and Lanthe. Rydstrom and Cadeon’s relationship is also worth mentioning, as they finally realize and admit how important they are for each other.

The story action is stuffed with unnecessary episodes without excitement or dynamism, and the final battle in Castle Tornin is too short.

*After reread: it's still not among my favorites... :/