Anne Bishop - Twilight's Dawn [Black Jewels 9]

Well, first things first: Twilight's Dawn is not one story but four novellas. I don't like novellas since in my opinion you need a certain number of pages to unfold a good story and especially for deep and interesting characters. Had I known this beforehand I might not have bought Twilight's Dawn. I'm glad I didn't know it! Since all four novellas are centered around the SaDiablo family reading the book felt like meeting old friends.

Winsol Gifts

Daemon is settling into his first year of married life with his Witch Queen, Jaenelle. But as the celebration of Winsol draws near, he finds himself pulled in multiple directions as he plays host to his formidable family.

As the title of the first novella suggests it is about Winsol, the combined equivalent of Christmas and New Years Eve. The whole SaDiablo family gathers to celebrate - and whoever knows this family just started to smile!

Shades of Honor 

When wounded Surreal returns to Ebon Rih, her former lover Prince Falonar ruthlessly challenges the rule of her family, testing Surreal's resolve not to succumb to the darkness burning inside her.

Surrueal once again gets trained by Lucivar Yaslana. You think you've read that before? You have in some way. But this time Surreal feels way more Assassin than last time. Oh, and did I mention that there is some huge fightning involved? And, of course, some grumbling between the family members?

Family

When someone lays a vicious trap for Queen Sylvia and her sons, the ruling family of Dhemlan must uncover the identity of a vicious warlord before he returns to finish what he started.

Do you remember Sylvia and her relationship with Saetan? This story evolves that relationship in an unexpected but fitting way. It also connects to the original trilogy, however more in a way of referring to it than actually combining them.

The High Lord's Daughter

After losing two important people in his life, Daemon builds a wall around his heart. But when he inadvertently forges a new connection, will it be enough to free him from his loveless existence?

I really can't say much about this novella without spoiling too much. Therefore let me just say it feels like a conclusion to the Black Jewels books. To all of them. Further books/stories are certainly not ruled out by it! But then ... I guess you have to read it to understand.

Conclusion: The second time Anne Bishop brings "an end" to the Black Jewels. But then we know it didn't end with Dreams made Flesh. And Twilight's Dawn certainly leaves the door open for more. I'm hoping for it. And if you like the Black Jewels so far, read this book and hope for more together with me.