Devon’s review of Upon the Midnight Clear (Dream Hunters Book 2) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Contemporary paranormal romance published 30 Oct 07 by St.Martin’s

Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Night Pleasures was the book that introduced me to paranormal romance and, in fact, re-introduced me to the world of romance reading. Her Dark Hunters were addictive: entertaining, action-packed and hot. There were issues–sometimes the characterization was so broad as to be cartoonish, the wisecracks sounded like something a middle schooler would come up with, and the language could be cliched and repetitive. But the complex mythology was entertaining, and the mix of angst and humor helped make the whole package rock. Unfortunately, I have found the more recent releases to be increasingly disappointing, and I am afraid Upon the Midnight Clear continues in that vein. It was as if Kenyon focused on the stuff I don’t like, but forgot to include the stuff that makes her books good.

Ms. Kenyon specializes in heroes whose caring, strong natures have be twisted by ill-treatment and betrayal. Many of them are sexy and delicious (see my personal favorite Valerius). UtMC’s actor hero, Aidan O’Connor is standard Kenyon hero. He is Angry! Bitter! Jaded! He loved and supported his family and friends, and they all betrayed him out of greed and jealousy. Now, he walks alone, he walks alone. Unfortunately, he’s also kind of boring and one-note. When the heroine, Dream Hunter Leta shows up at his remote Tennessee cabin, he’s all cynicism and TMI, spewing cliches about how everyone’s out to get you. Leta herself was ok, but a bit boring.

This is completely a personal taste, but I just don’t find the Dream Hunter mythology as compelling as that of the Dark Hunters and Were-Hunters. And Aidan got screwed, but man it was all so cartoony. Everyone he had surrounded himself with was just soooo evil, because they had no Oscars. This book just failed to keep my interest. I found myself counting pop culture references instead. There was Bauhaus, Dexter, The Indigo Girls, 300 and Joe Walsh, off the top of my head. There’s something about the god of Dread quoting “Life’s Been Good” that makes me feel angry.

Although this book was sold as a full-length title, it felt skimpy. Some of the issues I had are problems I often have with novellas: rushed and unconvincing romance, caricatures rather than characters, speedy plot with abrupt ending. When Aidan’s few loyal hangers on show up at his cabin, bearing good wishes and a ham, I had to walk away for a bit. It was a shadow of a Dark-Hunter romance, with some cheesy sentiment thrown in for good measure.

What kept this book a C was the added story “Holiday Gatherings,” which I rather enjoyed. In it we return to the world of the Dark Hunters, and peek in on their holiday celebrations. Again, it was a bit cheesy and sentimental, but it was like seeing old friends. “Hey Aimee, Fang. When are you guys getting your own book?” “Valerius, Kyrian, Deveraux clan! Good to see ya.” Same for Bride and Vane. The scene with Sin, Katra, Ash and Artemis made me want to read Devil May Cry, which I’ve skipped, and I’m still excited for Ash’s book. I would suggest saving your money and hitting the library instead. Henceforth, I think I’ll stick with the Dark Hunters and leave the Dream Hunters be.

Grade: C

Blurb:

Ever think Scrooge had it right before the ghosts ruined his life? Meet Aidan O’Conner. At one time he was a world-renowned celebrity who gave freely of himself and his money without wanting anything in return…until those around him took without asking. Now Aidan wants nothing of the world-or anyone who’s a part of it.

When a stranger appears at his doorstep, Aidan knows he’s seen her before… in his dreams. Born on Olympus as a goddess, Leta knows nothing of the human world. But a ruthless enemy has driven her from the world of dreams and into the home of the only man who can help her: Aidan. Her immortal powers are derived from human emotions-and his anger is just the fuel she needs to defend herself…

One cold winter’s night will change their lives forever…Trapped together in a brutal winter storm, Aidan and Leta must turn to the only power capable of saving them-or destroying them both: trust.

Excerpt: Prologue, Chapter One

Read Gwen’s review of this book here.

Read more from Devon at Is that a stake in your pocket?