Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward (‘Black Dagger Brotherhood’ series Book #4)

Paperback: 480 pages - Publisher: Onyx (MM) (Mar 6 2007) - Language: English - ISBN-10: 0451412354 - ISBN-13: 978-0451412355

 

Lover Revealed

by J.R. Ward

‘Black Dagger Brotherhood’ series Book #4

In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there’s a deadly war raging between vampires and their slayers. And there exists a secret band of brothers like no other – six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Now, an ally of the Black Dagger Brotherhood will face the challnge of his life and the evil of the ages.

Butch O’Neal is a fighter by nature. A hard living, ex-homicide cop, he’s the only human ever to be allowed in the inner circle of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. And he wants to go even deeper into the vampire world – to engage in the turf war with the lessers. He’s got nothing to lose. His heart belongs to a female vampire, an aristocratic beauty who’s way out of his league. If he can’t have her, then at least he can fight side by side with the Brothers…

Fate curses him with the very thing he wants. When Butch sacrifices himself to save a civilian vampire from the slayers, he falls prey to the darkest force in the war. Left for dead, found by a miracle, the Brotherhood calls on Marissa to bring him back, though even her love may not be enough to save him…

Review: ‘UNPUTDOWNABLE’!!! I can’t get over this series! Ward knows how to write them, and she’s turning into one of the best. Each character is unique, their own personalities, flaws and all, makes them appear incredibly read (even for vampires.) The words Ward uses to describe each character works on so many levels; you can feel their happiness, their pain, their envy, their sadness, their fear, their worries … everything, even the love and friendships they share. Fighting scenes make you hold your breath. Sex scenes … holy good god, can they make you hot under the collar! Arguments between characters makes you feel everything they feel, understand their reasoning, no matter how their flaws. This series is incredible, and if you’re into paranormal/fantasy, I can’t urge you enough to read it!!!

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Dark Lover by J.R. Ward (‘Black Dagger Brotherhood series Book #1)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: August 19, 2005 - 448 Pages - ISBN: 0451216954 - Published By: Signet MM

 

Dark Lover

by J.R. Ward

‘Black Dagger Brotherhood’ series Book #1

The only purebred vampire left on the planet, Wrath has a score to settle with the slayers who murdered his parents centuries ago. But when one of the most trusted fighters is killed – orphaning a half-breed daughter unaware of her heritage or her fate – Wrath must usher the beautiful female into the world of the undead…

Racked by a restlessness in her body that wasn’t there before, Beth Randall is helpless against the dangerously sexy man who comes to her at night with shadows in his eyes. His tales of brotherhood and blood frighten her. But his touch ignites a dawning hunger that threatens to consume them both…

Review: Finished Monday, November 6th, 2006. Holy cow, what an awesome book! Words can’t begin to describe my thanks to Kathleen! Fast-paced and unputdownable, the story just kicks into high-gear and doesn’t let up! The male characters are deep, strong, and intense. The women characters just as strong and can stand up on their own and up to the males. The action is superb, the descriptions make you feel like you’re right there watching. The details of the characters give you a clear picture in your head, not only what they look like, but how they act, how they feel. It’s like watching a movie in your mind. I couldn’t ask for better, one of the best paranormals I’ve ever read!

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Primal Heat by Susan Sizemore (‘Primes’ series Book #5)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: July 25, 2006 - 368 Pages - ISBN: 1416513353 - Published By: Simon & Schuster

 

Primal Heat

by Susan Sizemore

‘Primes’ series Book #5

Can a heroic vampire protect his clan from danger – and save himself from burning desire?

As Prime of his vampire Family, Mathias Bridger is sworn to protect his own kind at any cost – but years of acting as a fierce guardian of his people have left him yearning for more out of life. His chance comes in the form of Phillipa Elliot, the beautiful police officer whose allure hasn’t dimmed in the two years since they had a brief, torrid affair. And though she’s involved with someone else now, Phillipa can’t deny the feeling that Matt is her destiny.

When the Family comes under attack from fanatical vampire hunters, Matt uncovers treachery that shatters his world. So how can he possibly invite Phillipa into it? Fighting to protect his kin, he tries to push Phillipa away to the safety of her mortal life – but he aches for her, and his will is no match for the flames of their all-consuming passion…

Review: Finished August 4th, 2006. Susan Sizemore does it again. She creates colourful characters that stand out on their own, and this time you didn’t know who the ‘evil’ one was until near the end. I was surprised how Phillipa went with the flow instead of demanding more. She seemed stronger a character than that at the beginning, even with everything going on in her life. Still, I was happy to see her and Matt together. There was just the right amount of action, even though I would have liked to see a battle between Phillipa and Octavia, just to show what Phillipa can do, and was disappointed that Phillipa’s role didn’t seem stronger than that. The sex scenes were just as hot as usual, but for some reason, I still found this novel lacked something. I needed a bigger ‘oomph’ than what it had. Her other Prime novels seemed more exciting than this one. On that note, I can’t wait for Primal Desire to come out so I can read Jason’s story.

Rating: .75

Crave the Night by Susan Sizemore (‘Primes’ series Books #1, 2, & 3)

Format: Trade Paperback - Published: September 2005 - 688 Pages - ISBN: 1416510834 - Published By: Simon & Schuster

 

Crave the Night

by Susan Sizemore

‘Primes’ series Books #1, 2, & 3

(“I Burn for You,” “I Thirst for You,” “I Hunger for You”)

In her steamy vampire romances, acclaimed author Susan Sizemore pits vampires against mortals, destiny against desire… By popular demand, all three novels are now availiable in this paperback collectible.

I Burn for You

Battling the dark hollows of his soul, vampire Alec Reynard undergoes secret medical treatments that allow him to bear daylight. Living a double life as a bodyguard, he must also battle his powerful attraction to Domini Lancer, a mere mortal – and, unbelievably, his soul mate. When danger threatens, he kidnaps Domini to protect her but wonders: will she accept the darkness within him – or is she a vampire slayer who’s cleverly infiltrated his clan?

I Thirst for You

Josephine Elliot knows only that the stranger who appears out of the dark desert night and took her captive is named Marcus Cage and that he’s on the run. A vampire, Marcus is overwhelmed by his thirst for Josephine and instanly recognizes her as his soul mate – but when she unwittingly betrays him, both are thrust into mortal danger. Can their newfound love survive or is their insatiable desire doomed?

I Hunger for You

Mia Luchese, who comes from a long line of vampire hunters, doesn’t know that Colin Foxe broke off their blistering affair because he’s a vampire. After she’s attacked by evil vamps and Colin rescues her, their real identities must be revealed for them to get to the bottom of the attack. But even a generations-old enmity that should rip them apart cannot break the bond that has their souls hungering for an eternity of ecstasy in each other’s arms…

Review: Finished July 18th, 2006. Darn it, another series I’m hooked on, LMAO! Susan Sizemore is an awesome writer. Her plots have twists that you didn’t see coming (especially in I Hunger For You,) her characters are colourful, believable and funny. You can feel the ‘sizzle’ between heroes and heroines; her descriptions of characters and places create a vivid picture in your head. Each character had their own thought process, and I loved the ‘inner’ battles. The men were the proper heroes but turned to mush when it came to their women, and the women were fiercely independent, strong and brave … exactly what I ‘crave’ (excuse the pun) in a really good book. I can’t wait for the next installment of the series: Primal Heat, available on July 25th, 2006. Coles says they have 5 in stock… Hmm, wonder if Lorette can sell it to me earlier. I think I’m about to make quick phone call, LOL!

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Twilight Hunger by Maggie Shayne (‘Wings in the Night’ series Book #7)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: September 2006 - 400 Pages - ISBN: 0778322637 - Published By: Mira

 

Twilight Hunger

by Maggie Shayne

‘Wings in the Night’ series Book #7

When struggling screenwriter Morgan DeSilva uncovers the ancient leather diaries in the attic of an old house in Maine, she is swept into the seductive world of a long-dead madman who had believed himself a vampire. Now, though Dante’s story has made her rich and famous, Morgan is wasting away. At night she dreams of him, an erotic fantasy so real she can see the marks on her neck, feel her life’s blood draining from her. Almost as if he were real…

“He comes to her at night. Watching her. Wanting her.”

She is one of The Chosen. She can be his, if he desires. And he desires it so much that he is filled with a terrible fear. He knows that his kiss can save her from destiny’s curse, and from the enemies who stalk them both. But to save her, he must trust her. With his life. With his love. With the promise of immortality.

Review: Finished Saturday, October 15th, 2006. Classic Maggie Shayne! You feel what the characters feel, and the anxiousness that makes your heart stutter while you’re in the middle of all the action. Having read the entire series already, I already knew that Morgan met with Dante, that Morgan was Maxine’s twin sister (Blue Twilight ~ Maxie & Lou.) I got all of that. I understood how Stormy ended up getting shot (both Blue Twilight and Prince of Twilight ~ Vlad & Stormy.) Now I understood things that had been discussed but I didn’t know where from.

Maggie added her humour, the action and intimate moments perfectly blended. Confused emotions ruled the book, like Maggie always makes her characters feel, and reading and watching them grow together is awesome in any book Maggie writes. I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a fun, awesome read.

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Prince of Twilight by Maggie Shayne (‘Wings in the Night’ series Book #12)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: October 2006 - 400 Pages - ISBN: 0778322793 - Published By: Mira

 

Prince of Twilight

by Maggie Shayne

‘Wings in the Night’ series Book #12

Return to Maggie Shayne’s Wings in the Night … if you dare.

Foretold centuries ago,

it is a destiny they cannot escape…

The immortal Vlad Dracul has wandered for centuries in search of the reincarnation of his wife, Elisabeta. Now he believes he has found the woman possessed by his beloved’s soul and is prepared to make her his for all eternity.

Tempest “Stormy” Jones has long sensed the other, someone inside her fighting to take control, a feeling that burns stronger when the dark prince is near. As Stormy denies the passion between herself and Vlad, she must resist allowing Elisabeta to take over and claim him as her own.

When Elisabeta discovers Vlad’s feelings for Stormy, her wrath knows no bounds. She demands that her destiny be fulfilled, leaving Vlad tormented by what was … and what could be. Now only he can choose who will live … and who will die.

Review: Finished Wednesday, September 27th, 2006. Another perfect book in the Wings series. Although it doesn’t have as much intrigue as the rest, this one touches base on the characters feelings a lot more. The events leading up to the climax and ending are perfectly wound together, the way it should be. At first, it felt like I was missing something, a long stretch between the last book and this one, but as you read the story, the ‘stretch’ is brought back and explained, and timed perfectly as well. What can I say? Maggie know what she’s doing.

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A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands (‘Argeneau’ series Book #1)

Format: Trade Paperback - Published: October 6, 2005 - 374 Pages - ISBN: 0060773758 - Published By: Avon

 

A Quick Bite

by Lynsay Sands

‘Argeneau’ series Book #1

“That hot guy ties to Lissianna Argeneau’s bed? He’s not dessert – he’s the main course!”

Lynsay Sands is bringing her hilarious voice and popular vampire series to Avon and we’ve got a new star on the rise!

A haemaphobic vampire?

You guessed it. And her mother wants nothing more than to cure this nasty fear of blood so her darling daughter can have a normal meal for once. What better way than to give her a darling doctor on a plate – or tied to a bed – for feeing? But instead of simply having a delicious snack, this vampire vixen decides the doctor is too tasty for just one bite, and before they know it he’s got a hot (but cold-blooded) woman on his hands who wants much more than to just sink her teeth into him…

Lynsay comes to us with an established track record. She may be new to Avon, but she brings with her an already-established series, the Argeneau vampire series, that has a strong steady fan base that’s clamoring for the next installment.

Vampire comedy is hot and on the way up and with Lynsay Sands we have one of the pioneers of the mini-genre, and the best of the best!

Review: Read in 2007. *giggle* I thought this was a great book!

I thought the vampire aspect, the way Sands wrote it, was definitely original. I’d never heard it explained like that and I thought it was a great twist.

The characters seemed real, especially the family part of it. LOL, I could see my dad’s side of the family doing just what the Argeneau family does.

I thought Lissi was a great character. Strong in her own right, she has a head on her shoulders, and I’m equally glad that she fell in love with ‘the doctor’ as much as he did with her. They match each other equally in brains and tastes.

And I won’t ruin it by giving any spoilers. But I do have a question to get you wondering… Does Lissi really get over her phobia? Read it to find out, LOL!

Rating: .75

Fanged & Fabulous by Michelle Rowen (‘Immortality Bites’ series Book #2)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: July 1, 2007 - 368 Pages - ISBN: 0446618624 - Published By: Grand Central Publishing

 

Fanged & Fabulous

by Michelle Rowen

‘Immortality Bites’ series Book #2

My name is Sarah Dearly, and I’ve got major problems. Last month, I was turned into a vampire by the world’s worst blind date. Then I may have, totally by accident, started a war between the mostly peaceful bloodsuckers and a bunch of sociopathic vamp hunters who have nicknamed me the Slayer of Slayers. Now I’m being used as bait to draw out the hunters’ bad-ass leader, while my gorgeous 600-year-old boyfriend Thierry seems to be blowing me off, and my sizzle-hot, fanged friend Quinn is trying to turn my self-defense lessons into make-out sessions. So you know what? I’m done. I’ve had it. There comes a time when a vamp has to just suck it up and go after what she wants. And as soon as I figure out what that is, that’s exactly what I’ll do…

Review: I finished this novel on Sunday, July 22nd, 2007. LOL, a great second book!

I laughed as much while reading this one as I did the first one. Most of the characters are the same as the first, with the exception of a few added ‘bad guys’. I thought the plot played out well.

Moments of action that were as funny as well as holding your breath, a few moments of tears, a few of anger, and one of ‘oh, how sweet’ and ‘aaaah’.

Can’t wait or the third book!

Rating: .25

Bitten & Smitten by Michelle Rowen (‘Immortality Bites’ series Book #1)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: January 1, 2006 - 400 Pages - ISBN: 0446617008 - Published By: Grand Central Publishing

 

Bitten & Smitten

by Michelle Rowen

‘Immortality Bites’ series Book #1

There’s a new vamp in town…

Dear Mom,

I might be a wee bit late for Cousin Missy’s wedding. It’s been a tough week. Turns out, my blind date from hell was literally from hell. Guy bit me. Next thing I know, I’m being chanced all over the city by vampire hunters. And did I mention that I got fired, too?

Bright side – I met a man. Thierry de Bennicoeur. How great is that name? Anyway, he’s sexy, six-hundred years old, and a tad suicidal, but no one’s perfect, right? And we have a deal – he’s gonna show me the ropes of the vampire world, and I’m supposed to help him end his existence. Or maybe I’ll just try to convince him life is worth living – no small challenge with the mostly immortal, let me tell you. I’ll admit it’s a complicated relationship. But with any luck, I just might have a date for that wedding after all…

Hugs and Kisses,

Sarah

Review: I finished this novel on Tuesday, July 17th, 2007. As the first in a new series, I loved it!

It was funny, quirky. Sarah is a great character; I loved her sense of humor, and how she reacts to everything.

Thierry … *sigh* what I wouldn’t do to meet a man like that. Dark, mysterious, a vampire unlike those I’ve read before. 

Quinn … I felt bad for him, but I’m glad he’s finally coming to grips with what’s what.

The entire cast had me laugh and groan with all their quirks. I can’t wait to read the next one, Fanged & Fabulous.

Rating: .5

Date Me, Baby, One More Time by Stephanie Rowe (‘Immortality Sexy’ series Book #1)

Format: Mass Market Paperbound - Published: May 1, 2006 - 336 Pages - ISBN: 0446617660 - Published By: Warner Books

 

Date Me, Baby, One More Time

by Stephanie Rowe

‘Immortality Sexy’ series Book #1

IF YOU THINK LIFE IS COMPLICATED, TRY IMMORTALITY.

Justine Bennett is cursing her life. She’s the Guardian of the Goblet of Eternal Youth, she hasn’t left the house in ages, and it’s been over 200 years since she’s had sex. Oh, and the Goblet has shaped shifted into an espresso machine. Not exactly the stuff grand destiny is  made of…

Derek LaValle is worried. Due to a family curse, he’ll be dead in the space of a week unless he finds the Guardian of the Goblet of Eternal Youth and beheads her. Which wouldn’t be a problem if she wasn’t so sexy, smart … and ready to behead him right back.

Review: I finished this book on Monday, May 21st, 2007. As the first book in the series, I thought it was awesome.

The characters, I thought, are developed well, and all different from each other. The plot was well developed as well. Laugh-out-loud funny, you can’t help but get swept along with the characters. The touch of romance was well placed, and the use of the writer’s imagination was totally unlimited, and perfect.

I’ll definitely be getting the second and third books in the series.

Rating: .5