Review: Stunning conclusion
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 11 15, 2012
In the stunning conclusion to Marianne de Pierres Night Creatures trilogy, Shine Light reveals the secrets of Ixion when Naif returns to the pleasure island to lead a revolution. Having learned the horrific fate of those withdrawn from Ixion and discovered the conspiracy between Grave and the Ripers, Naif now must solve the mystery of Ixion's eternal night to save her friends before their time runs out.Fast paced and action packed, Shine Light races towards the shocking climax that sees the teens in a pitched battle against the night creatures. de Pierres brings together the characters we have met over the preceding installments of the series, Rollo, Suki, Markes, Ruzalia, Dark Eve and Lenoir to name just a few and all play a part in this finale. With the Ripers split and the night creatures restless, danger is ever present for Naif and the rebels as they search for the answers they need. What they discover is the origins of the island chains that are trapped in darkness, and a way to shine a light on the truth.Naif is almost unrecognizable from the timid baby bat that came to Ixion in search of her brother in Burn Bright. In Shine Light she comes into her own, loyal, determined and fearless she refuses to give up even if the cost is her own life. Naif also has to deal with her relationship with Lenoir, the Riper to whom she is bonded, and the way in which her actions will affect him.Several of the other characters readers are familiar with also have to make sacrifices in the story. Liam is forever changed, Kero has to confront his grief and the rebel gangs have to put aside their rivalries to create a united front.While Shine Light deftly concludes the trilogy, tying up loose ends and revealing Ixion's secrets, it seems to me that the author has left a thread that could be picked up again in the future. The Night Creatures has proved to be an exciting and creative series blending fantasy and science fiction. I am sure fans of the series will be satisfied with the climax and will no doubt hope de Pierres shines on.