The worst thing however is the ‘twist’ which made the whole plot ridiculous.The first book in the dark and compelling Lady Helen trilogy, set during the Regency period, will appeal to teenagers and adults alike. Helen’s friends and the other members of the Dark Days Club seem to fade in the background, only to be (view spoiler) to make Helen feel as if ‘she had failed them all’. Carlston ‘s jealousy and short-temper made him just as likeable as Helen. Worst still is that she was such a horrible friend. Why save the world when you need to prepare your wedding? The world can wait. The whole marriage plot was pointless and a real drag. Helen acted in such an irritating manner. Why even bother with the silent conversations. All of a sudden they seem able to share telepathic conversions?! And other people sort of notice?! Are they just obviously staring at one another? Subtle. The terms used to refer to the ‘supernatural’ elements were easier to remember but I was not a fan of the whole ‘Grand Reclaimer’ bond between Helen and Carlston. There are plenty of characters or things that have happened that I could not remember. It might be because the previous instalment came out nearly two years ago but it took me quite some time to readjust to this world. While there are plenty of dramatic and serious occasion, the style often comes across as satirical, poking fun at traditions and beliefs of that era. Each scene that takes place is described with extreme detail, and the elegant prose resonates with the historical period itself.

Goodman’s writing is still par excellence. This last novel left me with a bitter taste: nearly everything that I loved in previous instalments…I now sort of hate. Throw in some demons, action, and a lot of letters, and you get the perfect ‘ Fantasy of Manners‘.Īfter reading The Dark Days Deceit I no longer feel fond of this world. The slowest burn of them all, her infatuation with Lord Carlston was thrilling.

Lady Helen, our main character, was both sensible and diplomatic, and she could also kick some serious ass. Goodman’s writing painstakingly depicted the Georgian era, its customs and language. I enjoyed The Dark Days Club and I thought The Dark Days Pact was the perfect sequel.

To say that I am incredibly disappointed by this final instalment would be pretty accurate.

The Dark Days Club by Alison Goodman