Through the Veil (Berkley Sensation) [Mass Market Paperback]

This book's cover snatched my attention one night when I went to the store, so I bought it... and was mildly disappointed when I finished the book. I found that the heroine didn't really grow, although there was a part in the middle of the book that should have inspired a rather drastic change in her personality/voice... but it did not. And after this event, certain things continued to happen, although they should not have - and there were also a few gaps in the story, wherein some areas of the worlds were left flat or not as detailed as I would have liked. The cover also hints at a more swords and sorcery type fantasy, as there's a crossbow like weapon - but there's laser type things instead in the novel itself. The writing itself has problems - sometimes it's like watching someone try to get in a car without actually opening the door, because some conditions are not met, and then the action's taking place anyway. Sometimes characters just mysteriously seem to pop in, although earlier they weren't there, or the person is doing one thing, and then later has to re-do it, or they are in the wrong place. Some phrases are also reused a lot, and it just reminds me of another author who I've actually quit reading who is infamous for reusing phrases to the point that readers make fun of her.

I found that the plot was actually quite predictable in some places - I guessed several factors that were revealed near the end of the book, and I'd guessed them about half way through.

There aren't many female characters in this novel, but that's quite understandable considering the plot. The hero of the novel was actually a little annoying. The most interesting man was not even the main character - but a side character who is also supposed to have a twist at the end, and yet I guessed that, too. I felt like the plot twists had a little too much foreshadowing/were rather transparent.

What I found good about the novel was the idea behind the world and the conflict found within the book, although I wish the author had some how explained or shown why the problems started in the first place. With some authors, these types of details are sorted out in later books in a series, but there is no sign that this is part of a series.

Like another reviewer said, the author tries to place this novel into too many genres - there's elements of traditional romance, science fiction, fantasy and urban fantasy. For example, the term "witch" seems wrongly applied in this novel. The majority of this novel is set in a world that is technologically advanced compared to our own present but one that has had some major setbacks. The term "witch" seems strange, especially when the term "talented" is also used. I've never really heard of a science fiction heroine who was a witch... and this seems more like psychic power and power over the gates/veil... which also somewhat falls into psychic powers, in my opinion.

Despite all the problems the book had, I did enjoy reading it. I found myself jolted out of the story for the reasons I've stated above, but overall it was a good story. I really enjoyed the excerpt of another book by another author at the end... in fact, I enjoyed it just as much, if not more, than the actual book.

When Lee Ross awakens one morning, she is magically pulled into another world. But unlike her reality, this world is harsh and at war. Vicious Warlords have been kidnapping women from this world to use as breeders. And monstrous demons are also being sent through portals to this world.

Though Lee arrives among friends, she soon finds herself put through rigorous training and extreme situations. Thankfully, the tough-but-sensitive Kalen is there to ease her suffering and help her adjust to the new surroundings. All of her life she's had strange dreams. And it looks like her "dreams" may be her reality.

Lee and Kalen are vivid characters with wonderful chemistry. Lee's past is mysterious, and unfolds throughout the story with some surprising revelations. The story is darker than most paranormal romance, with its share of anguish and suspense. The romance is steamy. The intrigue kept me guessing. And storyline kept flowing and kept me captivated with the excitement and danger.

I won't say that I thought this book would be fluff, because I didn't - I just didn't know it would be such a well built and involved world. Why? Judging a book by its cover (shame on me) to put it bluntly.

The characters Lee and Kalen (and others) are very well planned, complex and amazingly well written. I have read Shiloh's other work - this book, IMO, is the best so far. The world building is just flat out incredible -I want to know more and you are left wanting more. The only thing that really disappointed me about this book? It ended. I was left with questions and I am hoping that this will mean there will be more stories set with these characters and their world.

The reader is taken on such an involved journey from the love of a child by a parent (what won't you do for that kid), the losses in life and its complexities, to the learning of who you are (both the lighter side and the darker side) and don't forget love (Lee & Kalen are molten lava). All of this wrapped up in a world that is beyond anywhere you have imagined...yet.

This is a book well done.