Reviews

Taken By Nightfall by Mikaela Bell

amandalynn's review

Go to review page

4.0

3.5 stars
0 spice

I received an e-ARC of this book. The premise really got me excited for this book. I did enjoy the story and will read the next book, but it is definitely YA (which is not a bad thing, but I prefer my books with some spice).

I do have to agree with other reviews though, this book seemed rushed. The relationship between Jace and Aria had an odd lack of buildup. There was the bare minimum amount of relationship building and character development. I think that was the hardest thing to wrap my head around. I love me some good character development and relationship building. I do hope that the next book allows for this and some more world building, Noctem sounds very intriguing. Overall, a good book and I enjoyed it.

katvou's review

Go to review page

As a child / teen I probably would have loved this, but right now it just wasn’t for me.

Nothing against the book or the author. I can see this being a great book for other readers.

My biggest issue was with the main character and how she was so powerful and natural at everything. I would have hoped that she would struggle a bit instead of being the best in every situation.

Also would have hoped to see more world building.

whatrhireads22's review

Go to review page

adventurous emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the premise and the whole setting of the magic school, it was so amazing to read about. I liked the main characters and the found family within them. I really liked the magic system, I’ve always found the idea of elemental magic cool and I think it was well written. I think the romance progressed slightly too quick for me but I enjoyed it anyway. Definitely read this book if you like fae, royalty and Harry Potter.

orini's review

Go to review page

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

The book itself was fine. A cute coming of age romance. There was nothing alarmingly negative about it. I feel as though some things could use polishing. The world building has me questioning what kind of era this is set in. We are modern with cars, indoor plumbing, cell phones, and electricity. But we are still using swords? The main characters have some depth but the side characters seem to be lacking much personality individually or seem too similar. The plot is decent, albeit a bit predictable. You know who the villain is right away, it didnt surprise me or leave me in suspense, which I find a bit disappointing. It definitely gave me some Harry Potter meets The Magicians, High school vibes. So if you're into those stories, you might like this. 🤷‍♀️ The ending sets you up nicely for a book 2. Ultimately, if you are looking for a coming of age, YA fantasy romance (no spice), with Harry Potter vibes. You found it! 

kirkbookdragon's review

Go to review page

fast-paced

3.25

This is a cute YA fantasy with a good story. Some of the dialogue can feel a little immature for a more mature reader; however, I think it works well for its intended audience. 

I look forward to the continuation of the series and to see what happens next!

jessversteeg's review

Go to review page

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

The author is rereleasing this in digital form and has made edits from previous releases. There were a bunch of edits needed etc but the author assures me they’ll be sorted for its actual release. 

The author is rereleasing this in digital form and has made edits from previous releases. There were a bunch of edits needed etc but the author assures me they’ll be sorted for its actual release. 

I’m going to give this a 3 but it probably is more like a 2.5. Like other reviews have said, it has lots of potential and I happily finished the book. I’ll definitely read the next one, but the writing is not that great. I really hope it improves for the next one. 

The vibe is The Cruel Prince meets Harry Potter with a bit of Crescent City (though fully YA). . Like other reviews have said, it has lots of potential and I happily finished the book. I’ll definitely read the next one, but the writing is not that great. I really hope it improves for the next one. 

The vibe is The Cruel Prince meets Harry Potter with a bit of Crescent City (though fully YA). 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

arkany_mi's review

Go to review page

2.0

If I were a teenager, I would maybe have enjoyed this book. However, as an adult, I find myself constantly bothered by the immaturity of the characters and the overly rapid development of the story. Also, it becomes annoying when the main character excels effortlessly in every aspect.

Perhaps it would be more beneficial to introduce a slower pace in the next book. This book had great potential, but, in my opinion, failed to live up to expectations.
More...