Just Talking Books

A very solid start in a new series by Ms Painter!

What I liked:  As a reader, I'm always on the look out for something different; a synopsis that captures my attention and imagination.  I'm happy to say when I read the synopsis of House of the Rising Sun on NetGalley, I immediately requested it and was approved!

The down and dirty is this:  The writing in the novel is great and Ms Painter can lay out a wonderful story.  I enjoyed so many of the characters because they were quirky and different.  The premise of the story is different.

Augustine captured me right away.  He's powerful but tender with those he cares about.  As much as he tries to hide it, he's still looking for total acceptance and love from his Mother.  His caring and his interactions with Olivia and Lally just stole my heart.

Speaking of Olivia, I really wonder what Ms Painter has in store for her character.  Lally is just something special.  Caring, no nonsense and very practical.  I could go on and on about the secondary characters but believe me, they are completely fun and unique.

The worldbuilding in House of the Rising Sun is on going but what a great start.  I mean, how can you not like a Fae plus other otherworldly species story set in New Orleans.  It's a magical place and Ms Painter brings it life.

What I didn't like:  Here's the biggie.  I had an extremely hard time connecting with the heroine, Harlow.  She comes across as very self centered and bratty.  The way she treats her Mom just grated on me, a lot.  (A small caveat here.  I was very close to my Mom who passed away 14 years ago and this might have colored my opinion of Harlow).  Even with that aside, Harlow didn't tug any heartstrings.  I just wanted to smack her and tell her to wise up most of the time.  

With all that, I can still see where Ms Painter has a lot of leeway in developing Harlow's character, which is a good thing.  Where Harlow's character goes from here will determine whether I continue with the series.

I will definitely read the next book in the series, City of Eternal Night.  I can't wait to see what Ms Painter has in mind for this cast of characters!!

The cost of House of the Rising Sun is as follows.  Amazon - Kindle edition is $9.99 and paperback is $12.60.  At Barnes & Noble, Nook book is $9.99 and the paperback is $12.34

If you're looking for something different I wholly recommend this book!!