That's What I'm Talking About

Opening a few months after the conclusion of the previous title, Edged Blade continues with Kit’s recovery from her abduction and torture at the hands of an evil vampire (Blade Song). While the majority of Kit’s journey finding her way back to life after her horrible experiences were chronicled in the previous book, Night Blade, I was glad that Kit still isn’t (and never will be) her old self. This is one area that the book and story excels; Kit was broken and now she must come to terms with how to live her life under a new set of rules.

Kit and her lover/mate Damon, alpha of the powerful Southern Cat Clan, share some amazing moments throughout Edged Blade. Both are uncertain and awkward, yet full of desire and love. Ms. Daniels continues to skillfully put the pieces back together for this pair, allowing them to safely express concerns and share their feelings. The scenes focusing on Kit and Damon’s relationship were by far my favorite parts of the story.

Unfortunately, I had issues with much of the rest of the book. Kit’s good friend (and former lover), Justin, pulls her into a case involving several missing non-humans who have mysteriously vanished. This case is not straight-forward and left me constantly trying to understand what was going on. In fact, I had to re-read and/or go back to find a scene for clarification at least a dozen times. Time after time, scenes would begin or change, leaving me unsure as to what had just happened. At one point in the story, Damon’s second (and good friend of Kit), Chang, says to Kit “Saves time when I don't have to connect the dots.” But the problem for this reader is that I DO NEED help connecting the dots. Too often Kit makes connections that I just don't see, causing confusion and making it hard for me to follow and enjoy the story.

In addition to my confusion was the frustration of what appears to be yet another female jealous of Kit and her relationship with Damon. While this particular storyline is a bit different from previous one, it was too similar, making me angry to see it happen again, especially with Kit and Damon finally healing deep wounds. Also, there were a couple of side storylines that seemed to have potentially serious impacts to Kit and/or the Cat Clan, yet weren’t followed up on after initially mentioned.

In the end, other than seeing Kit recovering and her relationship with Damon healing, I didn't care much for Edged Blade. I felt lost and all over the place far too often, with questions constantly plaguing my enjoyment. Even after finishing, I was still trying to sort out the pieces and realizing that this was just the first chapter in a bigger story arc. The story had a strong transition feel, and I do not suggest anyone start the series with this book. I am grateful to the author in her handling of Kit and that she still isn't the same Kit she was before her kidnapping and torture. But moving from stories focused on Kit to some HUGE conspiracy event, left this reader frustrated with an abrupt ending and many loose ends.

My Rating:  C

Review copy provided by author

Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About