Night Calls

I discovered this quiet classic just after it was first published. I have lost track of how many times I have read it. It is very well written, telling its story through the eyes of an 11 - 14 year old but on an adult reading level. Having been a solitary wiccan for 17 years, I was skeptical that it might be just another "monsters and mayhem" tale, but the author manages to walk with ease "between the worlds" without the tiniest smidgeon of exploitation to be found. I have "redisovered" it after a long absence from it, and was astounded to find it had developed an amazing following. So much for that "just to read on the plane" beginning! Bottom line is great story, characters that are vibrantly alive, and a fascinating plot through man, myth, and magic. My only complaint: we need a third book to round out the story!!!!!! Ok, so I'm busted, I want a happy ending with Allie and Shaw... P.S. I now own three copies of "Night Calls" and its sequel, "Kindred Rites" because everyone keeps borrowing them from me!

I received Night Calls as a gift, and didn't read it for several months. I shouldn't have put it off! I was fortunate enough to take it with me on a long train ride, and very little reading time has been spent more pleasantly.The backgdrop of the story is one I haven't encountered before: the American frontier, but through the eyes of a budding young girl/witch of Scandinavian descent. The unusual (but light) cultural slant, coupled with the author's ability to write a story that serves the characters, gave me a new perpsective on dark fantasy. The reader learns about the magic art along with the protagonist, and the writing makes all of it believable. Much of the magic element of the book is based in herbalism, of which I know little, but which the author presents with authority. However, the technical details never overshadow the human elements of the story. I would recommend this book to adult and young adult readers. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Alfreda may have been a little afraid to discover she could hear the werewolves calling, but she was not afraid to choose the path of learning that would help her protect not just her own family but others. She was gutsy without being snotty, a very normal, believable girl.I enjoyed this book. It had a consistent, interesting voice that was a little different but not at all difficult to read. I liked the skillfully woven in details, both the realistic and the fantastical. From the smells of cider and baking bread to the use of an ash slat bucket and garlic, from a mother's grief to a friend's loyalty, Kimbriel keeps the details coming, and keeps me fascinated.

A really good read. The mix of magic, fantasy, history and herbology kept me interested throughout. The tone and language of the book makes it readible for kid or kidult alike.I hope she is writing a sequal.

Kimbriel has a true jewel here. Strong characters, good plot, a consistently strong writing style with passages that will truly delight you. An artful blending of mountain lore, myth and lifestyle with dark fantasy elements. I loved the protagonist, Allie, and could hardly wait for the sequel, even though this book can be read as a stand-alone. A young woman comes of age in a tough world---send your teen readers here instead of the latest horror title-- it has enough terror to keep anyone interested, but it has more, much more than the usual horror pulp.