Whitney C. (CollegeKid0010) - reviewed on 5/29/2011 + 19 more book reviews

Jayne Ann Krentz, or Amada Quick in this case, is indeed a pillar of todays romance genre. Though I havent read too many of her books, Ive quickly fallen in love with the characters from the Arcane Society, and each book has delighted me just as much, if not more, than the last. As one who unintentionally makes a habit of reading the first book in a series last, Second Sight was no less powerful for its being out of order.

Id found Gabriel Jones fascinating from the start of Calebs book, The Perfect Poison. I freely admit to being a sucker for the dark, tormented souls. Not to mention if the author throws in the hunter aspect as well. I was not disappointed with Gabriel; every time he spoke I could hear his voice and every time he moved, I could see his grace and his strength. The most amazing part of that though, is that I wasnt aware of being told about him; it was a seamless introduction that carried me right into the story. And Venetia! Rarely have I read a heroine who is that self-sufficient and sure of herself within this time period. The world of the Victorian Era is less than favorable for women who want to be independent, but Venetia manages without completely flaunting her world. Her background story is rather original too, as well as having her family be both dependent on her and very vital help in her career. Her being a photographer is another stroke of brilliance (has Ms. Quick run out of original ideas yet? It seems every novel there are so many that surely she couldnt top them!) They say the mark of a good heroine is that you would want to be best friends with her, and if that is the going standard, then Venetia is a success.

I love the beginning, and especially getting to see Caleb again (erfor the first time, I mean.) The setting and the conversation between the cousins really set the mood for the rest of the novel. The pace and timing are also very well done. I was kept on my toes, but the events fold nicely into one and another so I wasnt being jerked around. The climaxs start is obvious, but I wasnt aware of having been led up to it, the story itself was so entertaining.

There were a number of memorable moments throughout, such as Gabriels stark refusal to be photographed. That was amusing to no end! And him having to sleep in the attic for the duration of the story. *giggles*

Another trademark of Quicks books is how she gives you a recap of what the whole novel has been about, usually in a story circle format. This is helpful to those of us who dont necessarily have an eye for mystery and might have missed a piece here or there. Not to mention that it makes for a good reason to bring the whole cast together for comparison. Im not spilling details on the ending, but I will say that it was interesting to have two villains that were so intertwined and independent of each other at the same time.

Overall, a very entertaining read!

www.whitneycarter.wordpress.com

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