Bitter Night by Diana Pharaoh Francis (thoughts)

Summary from Goodreads:

"Once, Max dreamed of a career, a home, a loving family. Now all she wants is freedom...and revenge. A witch named Giselle transformed Max into a warrior with extraordinary strength, speed, and endurance. Bound by spellcraft, Max has no choice but to fight as Giselle's personal magic weapon — a Shadowblade — and she's lethally good at it. But her skills are about to be put to the test as they never have before...."

My Thoughts:

I've come to the conclusion that I just don't read enough urban fantasies.  Or that there are too many series out there that I want to read.  I'm not sure exactly which of these is accurate but probably a mix of both.  Because books like this keep me coming back for more every time!  Bitter Night was one of the best beginnings to an urban fantasy series that I've read in a LONG time!  Wow!  This book was intense, dark, twisted, and Oh. So. Good.  I literally couldn't pull myself away from this book which is never a bad thing. 

One of the things that I enjoyed most about this book was Max.  Max was such a fierce and kick ass main character.  I loved it!  She had such a tough outer shell but it was easy to see that she also had a soft, caring side to her that she kept hidden.  From the very beginning of the book I was instantly rooting for her to succeed.  I liked that she did what she could to rebel against Giselle but when it came down to it she knew what was important.  And what was important were the other Shadowblades that made up her "family".  The world that this author created was both unique and dark.  I wanted more instantly after finishing this book which is always a sign of a good read!  I just could keep going on and on with how good I though this book was but really enough with the gushing already!  I loved each and every page which is all I should have to say.

I'm trying to think of any negatives but there were none.  Other than me possibly reading too fast at points but that was because I was so involved in the storyline.  I just NEEDED to know what was going to happen next.  And as I spent a couple of evenings curled up on the couch reading as fast as I could, I did just that.  Now I just need more so I'm eager to get to the next book in the series.  This book definitely paved the way for future books that has left me curious.  I just hope that they are all as good as this one was!  Highly recommended!

Bottom Line:  A MUST read for any urban fantasy fan!  

Disclosure:  I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book from the publisher.  Thoughts are my own :)

I feel the need to glom on some urban fantasies after writing up my thoughts on this book!  There are SO MANY series and books that I want to read that it is almost overwhelming at times.  But that isn't going to stop me and I'm thinking a Read. Sam. Read. post or On My Wishlist post is in order.  Do you have some good recommendations for urban fantasy reads that I need to get to sooner rather than later??  Do tell!