Wanted: Undead or Alive (Love at Stake, #12)

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Wanted: Undead or Alive (Love at Stake #12)

by Kerrelyn Sparks (Goodreads Author)

4.2 of 5 stars 4.20 · rating details · 3,084 ratings · 269 reviews

He's a vampire from the big city . . .

Phineas McKinney thought New York City was tough, until he was attacked by Malcontents—evil vampires who consider mortals to be snacks. Saved by the good vampires, Phin swore to devote his now undead life to stopping the Malcontents. He's got his job cut out for him when word comes that their enemy may be hiding in Wyoming. What does a...more

Mass Market Paperback, 374 pages

Published March 27th 2012 by Avon

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Nov 01, 2012 Ren rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ass-kick-heroine, drooling-cover, family-theme, humor, read-english-book-challenge, reccomended-to-translated, romantic-or-couple-cover, shape-shifter-and-or-werewolf, special-ability, utc-shifter-challenge-2012, utc-vampire-challenge-2012, vampire, own-paperback, own-and-read, there-s-hot-and-dangerous-heroes

Phinneas aka Dr Phang aka Love Doctor story..
I hope his story still funny but not suck like Gregori's.

BTW see the stepback

.
.
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Thanks God! His heroine is Brynley Jones (Phil Jones's twin sister at Forbidden Nights with a Vampire) not La Toya.

12 likes · like · see review

Mar 01, 2012 Goge (BARRONS) le Moning Maniac, marked it as to-read

Shelves: funny-couple, intrigued, kerrelyn-sparks, lovable-hero, ok-for-some-reason-need-to-read, paranormal-romance, supporting-characters-kickbutt-like, to-buy, want-to-read, will-re-read, bloodsucker-vamp-carpathian-daywalk, shifters-mates-alpha-beta-the-works

DR. PHANG!!! I don't like Latoya so I hope pretty please that it's not her but sighhhh most likely 'yah' pshh:( Dr. Phang deserves betterrr!!! Love you Dr. Phanggg hehehhXD

New update: WOOHOOOO!!!!!!!!! It's NOT Latoya!!:D It's bitchy girl number two, Brynley! She pissed me off, namely because I love Vanda and she dissed Vanda but hopefully I'll like her in this book. :D

My immaturity speaking: Hahahh SUCK THAT LATOYA! Being a snob/bitch outted you for heroine lmfao. Okidoodles, ciao nowXD

12 likes · like · see review

Apr 25, 2012 Melindeeloo rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, paranormal-romance, paranormal-romance-vampire, paranormal-romance-shapeshifters

(3 stars - pretty good) Starting off almost as adversaries, vampire security expert Phineas and his leading lady werewolf Bryn seem almost mismatched. They come from opposite sides of the supernatural 'tracks' - He's a poor, inner city raised, 'turned' vamp and she's a Wyoming werewolf 'princess' who hates vamps. But once Phin and Bryn are forced to spend time together in pursuit of the Malcontent 'Queen' who is stirring up trouble in Byn's former hunting grounds, they discover the taunts they'v...more (3 stars - pretty good) Starting off almost as adversaries, vampire security expert Phineas and his leading lady werewolf Bryn seem almost mismatched. They come from opposite sides of the supernatural 'tracks' - He's a poor, inner city raised, 'turned' vamp and she's a Wyoming werewolf 'princess' who hates vamps. But once Phin and Bryn are forced to spend time together in pursuit of the Malcontent 'Queen' who is stirring up trouble in Byn's former hunting grounds, they discover the taunts they've been trading have been hiding a simmering attraction and that their family issues have enough similarities to make them sympathetic to the other's plight.

Since larger than life, constantly on the make, former drug dealer turned vamp, 'Love Doctor' Phineas Mckinney first appeared in Be Still My Vampire Heart, he's been sort of the outrageous comic relief character in the series. Now with his turn in the spotlight, the Phineas in Wanted Undead or Alive is way more subdued than normal - which is not a bad thing since I don't know if I could have handled a whole book of Dr Phang - but the book also isn't quite as funny as I thought it would be either with this more serious and vulnerable Phineas in the leading man role. And for me the transition to lovers this time around didn't really have the steamy tension building of some of Sparks' other Love at Stake romances, but I did appreciate that with both of the pair being supernatural there also wasn't the 'big secret' of the hero's dead during the day nature to deal with either.

So bottom line, despite feeling like this wasn't really the Phineas that we've come to know during the course of the last however many books, I didn't love this but I still enjoyed Wanted Undead or Alive and thought that the ending was pretty original. Sparks also left a few bad guys on the loose at the end to set up for the next book, Wild About You, which has bear-shifter Howard on the hunt.

One Final Note: I have to mention the cover since I've seen comments that the decapitated man chest doesn't appear to be of the correct race. After reading how much Sparks loved the cover in the forward to Wanted Undead or Alive, I hunted down the step-back (the inside cover picture you won't see if you are shopping online and which isn't included in the ARC by the way.) Though most paranormal romance readers are accustomed to cover heroes who don't match their descriptions in the book, after seeing the stepback picture of Phineas - with his head and his leading lady - I can confirm that the publisher did actually get Phin's race right.

ARC provide by Amazon Vine - release date 3/27(less)

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Mar 15, 2012 Karen Alvarez rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Mar 25, 2012 Julia rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, dropbox, arcs, romance, urban

Very slow to start, I barely hung on long enough to meet Brynley. Phineas had an uphill battle to redeem himself from the ridiculous "reality T.V. espionage" and "pimp clothing" of the first few chapters, but once he and Bryn were in Wyoming things picked up. As a pure romance, this story was entertaining, but the paranormal elements were really lacking (really, no Alpha werewolf has EVER bitten a werewolf before? And Bryn has her magical transformation just to become valuable to all the a**hole...more

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May 17, 2012 Lisa Annesley rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle, pnr, vampire, wolf-shifter, reviewed-4-blog

Are you a fan of Phineas McKinney, a.k.a. Dr. Phang, a.k.a. the Love Doctor? He gets a new moniker in Wanted: Undead or Alive. He makes a commercial for Blardonnay, the chardonnay-blood fusion drink, and becomes The Blardonnay Guy (like The Old Spice Guy). He even says "Hello Ladies." Fans of Phineas, rejoice!

And now to our story. If you're not a fan of the Love doctor, you'll be happy to know that Phineas grows up in Wanted and drops the Love Doctor routine. He goes undercover to catch Corky Co...more

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Mar 22, 2012 Scooper Speaks rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: dnf

Favorite Lines: "Phineas didn't want his aunt and sister to know the truth. Aunt Ruth would probably drag him into church and insist the Reverend Washington perform an exorcism on him. Luckily, the female members of his family were out of town this weekend, singing with the choir at some event in Buffalo." (p. 2, egalley)

Within a couple of pages it was clear to me that I was not going to appreciate book 12 in Kerrelyn Sparks' Love at Stake series. Wanted Undead or Alive irked me to the point tha...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Paige rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: i-own, 2012-books

Okay, so I’ll admit that I went into WANTED:UNDEAD OR ALIVE with a negative outlook. Phineas has never interested me in the previous books and I just didn’t see how I could enjoy an book about him.

I was pleasantly surprised to discover Phineas had a great story to tell that, for me, explained some of his behaviors and gave me a better understanding of him. Since it’s been a few days since I finished it, I’ll have to leave a generic review.

Phineas McKinney is thrown together with werewolf prince...more

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Mar 02, 2012 Guilty Pleasures rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: didi-reviews, authorreviews, paperback

This review posted at Guilty Pleasures

CREME de la CREME Pick

WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE is one of my favorites of the LOVE AT STAKE series.

We first meet Phineas AKA Dr. Phang AKA the LOVE Doctor AKA the Blardonnay guy in BE STILL MY VAMPIRE HEART, book 3. I have always thought of Phineas as a little like J.J. Walker from Good Times, you know the jive talking, always making a joke kinda guy, who really has hurts and fears buried underneath all that good time charlie, playboy persona. In WUOA we see a...more This review posted at Guilty Pleasures

CREME de la CREME Pick

WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE is one of my favorites of the LOVE AT STAKE series.

We first meet Phineas AKA Dr. Phang AKA the LOVE Doctor AKA the Blardonnay guy in BE STILL MY VAMPIRE HEART, book 3. I have always thought of Phineas as a little like J.J. Walker from Good Times, you know the jive talking, always making a joke kinda guy, who really has hurts and fears buried underneath all that good time charlie, playboy persona. In WUOA we see a much different side of Phin, we still see all of his LMAO humor, but we see he is a worthy opponent to the bad guys, as well as his insecurities, fear, caring and tender sides. Brynley Jones is Phil's kick ass were sister. She left Wyoming to escape from her Alpha father and is now teaching at the Dragon's Nest Academy. Even though Brynley loathes vampires, she is attracted to Phin and fights that attraction with all she has.

The McKay Protection team gets word that the ever evil Corky Courrant is in Wyoming, Phineas is assinged to go hunt her down. There are two obstacles with this plan, one - he doesn't know the area well, two - who is going to protect him in his death sleep? DING, DING, DING....in comes the vampire hating Brynley, who better to be his Wyoming tour guide and protector?

As Phineas and Brynley emabark on their Wyoming adventure, Phineas can't hide the fact that he has been in love with Brynley for awhile and Brynley can't fight her attraction to Phineas any longer. The sparks fly between these two and the lovin' is HOT!!!!

Mrs. Sparks throws us a few new characters and some awesome twists and turns. I am waiting with bated breath for Howard's book, which is next =)

WUOA is a funny, romantic and emotional roller coaster, with some bad guy butt kicking thrown in. It is a MUST read for all LOVE AT STAKE fans and a recommended read for fans of comedic paranormal romances.

Stop back by Guilty Pleasures on March 26, Kerrelyn will be our guest blogger!(less)

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May 07, 2013 Danielle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2013, read-in-may-2013, love-at-stake-series

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Finally the Love Doctor got some love on his own, getting his happily ever after with his mate Brynley, which he so deserved after all this time. They were perfect for one another, sharing pains and sorrows of their lives gone by and needing each other in order to heal those wounds deep in their souls so they could begin a life together. They just compliment each other so well, and I know that there future will be so bright for both of them.

I loved Phineas in this book because I got to see a dif...more Finally the Love Doctor got some love on his own, getting his happily ever after with his mate Brynley, which he so deserved after all this time. They were perfect for one another, sharing pains and sorrows of their lives gone by and needing each other in order to heal those wounds deep in their souls so they could begin a life together. They just compliment each other so well, and I know that there future will be so bright for both of them.

I loved Phineas in this book because I got to see a different side to him other than the player, Dr. Phang/ Love Doctor that he portrayed in books previously with this superficial persona, but he is so much more than that, wanting love and respect like everyone else in the world with a person he could spend the rest of his life with like we all want. He was no longer satisfied with casual encounters or one night stands like he was in the past, but wants real love, and he wants that real love with Brynley and would accept nothing less. He was so sweet and caring with her, wanting to get to know her while sharing apart of himself with her as well. He wanted to know about everything she went through and the pain she went though at the hands of her father. He was understanding and comforting her, even though he wanted to rip her father's throat at once he learned the truth about him, and just being there for her, earning her trust, which Brynley desperately needed to know before she could commit to loving and trusting him back.

And she did, and once she accepted that, she welcomed Phineas with both arms, embracing his love for her as well as her love for him and giving Brynley the courage to stand up to her father and no longer tolerate his abuse or to be his prisoner like she was in the past, and Phineas made that possible for her, and all because she not only finally accepted vampires as people unlike in the past where she thought they were evil and monsters, but she fell in love with one too, and being completely content with that. She knew she was wrong once she got to know the vamps especially Phineas and knew he was no monster. And it doesn't take her too long to learn that fact either, which just makes her life a whole lot better as well as, like I said, what was possible for her in her future, and finally having a family even if they were a bunch of vampires, even though in the beginning she did fight it, but it didn't take her long to learn especially after living her horrible life with her hurtful father, she could see what was the better alternative for sure.

Rhett was a jerk, and I know he was suppose to be, but it makes me curious to know what's going to happen in future books because I know he's not going to take it lying down. Is he going to go after Glynis or something that would get to Brynley and her father, who knows only time will tell on that score if it hasn't in other books I haven't read yet. Maybe Howard's book will answer that and what happens with him in the future, but I am so glad that Brynley stood up for herself and firmly said she wasn't marrying him, and would only marry the man that she loved, Phineas. I'm really looking forward to seeing Rhett getting what he deserves in the end.

I also liked how Phineas was willing to do anything in order to be with Brynley, even agreeing to Brynley's father's request to bite him and turn him into a werewolf so that her father would approve of their marriage in order to make himself worthy in her father's eyes (though in Brynley's mind Phineas never needed to do that because he was enough for her just like she was enough for him, loving each other just they way they were). But the point was he was willing to do whatever it took to be with her in the end, even if it meant the bit meant his death. But that didn't happen in the end, though he does turn into a werewolf (due to Rhett's bite), but yet keep his part of his vampire nature too, making him a perfect mix of the two.

I also loved how strong Brynley became at the end, really fighting for the life that she wanted with the man that she loved. And add to the fact that she's the first Alpha female ever was cool, and I loved the little revelation in the end, and showing that she was this strong powerful woman that no one had seen before, and no one (not any longer) could hold her down anymore not even Phineas though she wouldn't mind being in his power some of the time, I'm sure. But it was great addition to the story and I loved it, though it does make me wonder if she really is the only Alpha female in the world or will another one pop up in this world down the road?

Overall I loved this book and the love story between Brynley and Phineas that was sweet, hot, heartbreaking, giving each of them strength along the way, and just being themselves with that being enough to receive love that they so desperately yearned for after suffering and living so many hard and cruel years in their life from the outside world and then finally getting their happily ever after. I love this series and can't wait to read more.(less)

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Dec 15, 2012 Soraia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: love-at-stake

If you've read the other books in this series you might agree with me that Wanted: Undead or Alive is more of the same. More of the same kind of love story, more of the same doubts for the main characters, more of the same "falling in love" plot, more of the same light funny writing. I'm a fan of this series exactly for those things so I don't mind getting more of the same.

Phineas is a character that I was never a big fan of, throughout the previous books he was always too silly and corny, not...more

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Aug 20, 2012 Elsi rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own, romance, urban-fantasy, vampire

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Aug 17, 2012 Dangerous Romance Book Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

He's a vampire from the big city . . .

Phineas McKinney thought New York City was tough, until he was attacked by Malcontents—evil vampires who consider mortals to be snacks. Saved by the good vampires, Phin swore to devote his now undead life to stopping the Malcontents. He's got his job cut out for him when word comes that their enemy may be hiding in Wyoming. What does a city boy like him know about horses and campfires? Good thing he's got Brynley Jones with him . . . if only she didn't hate...more He's a vampire from the big city . . .

Phineas McKinney thought New York City was tough, until he was attacked by Malcontents—evil vampires who consider mortals to be snacks. Saved by the good vampires, Phin swore to devote his now undead life to stopping the Malcontents. He's got his job cut out for him when word comes that their enemy may be hiding in Wyoming. What does a city boy like him know about horses and campfires? Good thing he's got Brynley Jones with him . . . if only she didn't hate every vampire on earth.

She's a werewolf princess . . .

Bryn believes vampires are seductive and charming, and that makes them dangerous. So she's more than a little annoyed about teaming up with Phin, even if he is the only bloodsucker able to make her inner wolf purr. But as they hunt down the new leader of the Malcontents, danger threatens . . . and Phineas and Brynley discover a passion that will rock the foundation of their supernatural world.

I'm way behind on my reviews. This book came out in the Spring, but I wanted to discuss it. Kerrelyn Sparks has found a Niche and is plumbing it nicely. She''s built a light, sweet Vampire world. There are large amounts of people in it and as we get to know them, we begin to guess who is going to get their own story. The Love at Stake series doesn't really pretend to be a dark mix of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. It is a fun romantic romp, where the vampires for the most part are the good guys, with the exception of a few evil doers they are always fighting called the Malcontents.

They drink bottled blood, they have a security team that hunts down the bad guys, and they even have a Vampire television station that only the vampires know about (don't ask me how it is only the Vamps see it...I've never really understood that part but it doesn't matter) It is fun and that is all you need to know.

This is book twelve and along the way, we've been waiting for Phinneas, or Dr. Phang, or the Love Doctor, to fall in love. A notorious womanizer and all around joker, he has secretly been longing to settle down with the right girl. There was a cop lady he liked a lot but it turned out she hated vamps so much, that extended to him and there was no way she was getting over it. There is a werewolf Princess he's had sparks with but much like the cop, she hates vampires too. Unfortunately for them but fortunately for us; life, the universe or in this case, the head honcho of Romatech himself, says Phinneas must go track down one of the last Malcontent trouble makers, Corky the former star of her own vampire television show, it turned out she was in league and in bed with the former lead of the Malcontents. After they got their asses handed to them by the good Romatech vampires, Corky went on the lam, but she is still occaisonally broadcasting her lies and Roman needs his crew to shut her down. They have narrowed down where she is hiding to somewhere in the wilds of Wyoming, and that happens to be Brynley Jones's stomping grounds. Phin needs someone to keep his safe during the day (in case Corky is working with humans) and someone to show him the area at night and Brynley is the obvious choice to be his guide, despite her reservations (she's attracted to him and hates vampires).

The timing isn't great for Phin, he's about to star in a Vampire soap opera called, "As the Vampire Turns," And his "Blardonnay" commercials have been so sucessful, he is getting recognized where ever he goes (Blardonnay equals blood with Chardonay of course). And by the way when you picture Phin, think of the guy in the soap shower commercials saying, "Look at your man, now look at me." He should be ecstatic, chicks are throwing themselves at him, and that is what he wants, right? Except maybe some time off in the country with a certain werewolf lady might be what he needs more.

Okay, I know...the whole thing is just ridiculous. But that is what I love about these books, they make me laugh, they are fun. Sparks pokes fun at the vampire sterotypes and at us a little. These vampires are just like humans, and that is what makes them so popular, because making light of the Vampire condition has never been so fun.
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Jun 06, 2012 Rosebud rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, f-m, paranormal, series-book, shapeshifters, snarky, summer-reading-challenge-2012, werewolf, vampire-erotica

This the 12th book in the series "Love at Stakes" by Kerrelyn Sparks. Phineas, aka Dr. Love, aka the Blardonnay Guy, is out to find the new evil Malcontent queen Corky. Unfortunately the area where she is believed to be hiding is right in the middle of a strong werewolf territory stronghold. Brynley Jones, a female werewolf who tolerates vampires, knows the area as it's where she grew up and agrees to help the 'city boy' vampire. As a werewolf princess she's coveted as a pawn in the hierarchy of...more

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Apr 29, 2012 Jan Crow rated it 5 of 5 stars

Phineas McKinney, aka Dr. Phang, The Love Doctor is our hero in book 12 of the Love at Stake series. After failing to attract a mate in previous books it’s his turn to take the spotlight. As head of security for MacKay S & I he’s on a mission to capture Corky, the Queen of the Malcontents. But chasing her into Wyoming can be a bit difficult for the Dr. Phang on his own.
Brynley, who Phineas refers to as Snout Face is chosen to be his helpmate during this mission. She detests every vampire a...more

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Apr 28, 2012 Cheryl rated it 2 of 5 stars

Phineas is a vampire. He works for MacKay Security and Investigation. What Phineas is really known as is Dr. Phang. He is a super star on the Vampire Network (think if it as the CW Network)

The Malcontents, an evil group of vampires are making a move in Wyoming. Phineas is being sent to stop them. He will be accompanied by Bryn. If Phineas was alive, he would probably slit his own throat. Bryn is the daughter of a very powerful werewolf pack and she hates all things vampires. This is going to be...more

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Apr 15, 2012 Deborah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wasn't at the top of my to read list. I am a big fan of Kerrelyn Sparks & her " Love At Stake " series. I just saw Phineas as more of a supporting character role. Why... I don't know. Maybe because of his over the top character. However, I was pleasantly surprised. This was a quick read. The story just flew along. Probably because I was snickering half of the time. Dr. Phang hooks up with Brynley, a were wolf & Phil's twin sister. The two first met several books ago during Phil & Van...more

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Apr 07, 2012 Douglas Meeks rated it 4 of 5 stars

Wanted: Undead or Alive by Kerrelyn Sparks

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finished Wanted: Undead or Alive (Love at Stake) and with almost all of these books it was a light fun read but this one seemed to take a bit longer to get up to speed but as always it finished with a good HEA and some things left dangling for the next book. This does not need a lo0ng winded review, all the Love at Stake books are just fun romps with a bit of drama thrown in and usually a couple of twists you did not see coming. I...more

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Sep 30, 2012 Lexxie (un)Conventional Bookviews rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult, fave-series, i-own, kindle, look-forward-to, paranormal-adult, uf, read-in-2012

This and other reviews can be found on my blog : (un)Conventional Bookviews

First of all, I, who often don't even notice covers, have to just mention this cover. That guy on the cover just can't be Dr. Phang! Dr. Phang is black - that guy over there is definitely not black. I don't understand why someone else is on the cover of Phang's book. There, now that's off my chest.

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Mar 31, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, non-erotic, paranormal

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

I think I’m in lust with Phineas. Along with all the other characters in the previous books, I thought the Love Doctor was a little over the top and pretentious. What I discovered about him in this book where he finally gets a chance at being the hero, is that he has a lot more depth to him than the author previously let on. His story is more than a pleasant surprise, it was a delightful revelation.

The first thing I want to share is t...more Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

I think I’m in lust with Phineas. Along with all the other characters in the previous books, I thought the Love Doctor was a little over the top and pretentious. What I discovered about him in this book where he finally gets a chance at being the hero, is that he has a lot more depth to him than the author previously let on. His story is more than a pleasant surprise, it was a delightful revelation.

The first thing I want to share is that I am tickled pink with Ms. Sparks’ inclusion of what has to be one of the most sexy and exciting commercials that T.V. has seen in years. To say I got a kick out of how she integrated it into her hero is an understatement. I remember when it made the rounds with all of my fellow romance readers on Facebook because it was not only well done but the man was incredibly hot. Ms. Sparks took that little idea and ran with it, giving me one of the most grin worthy and wonderful experiences that I’ve had since I began reading her Love at Stake series. In my mind’s eye I now know exactly what Phineas looks like and when I applied that vision to the man who makes the heroine alternate between growling and lusting, I’m right there with her. I want to meet a man like that and nip and nibble him all over, but I’m sure Bryn would have something to say about that.

Ever hear the song, Tears of a Clown by Smokey Robinson? That’s Phineas’ theme song. What started off as a joke had turned into a travesty, leaving him alone and lonely. I felt so sad for him. The author presented valid and emotion tugging reasons for the hero’s outlook on life and how it shaped him. He alternated between wanting respect and feeling like he didn’t deserve it. He made some huge errors in his past and didn’t think they were redeemable. As regular folk, humans are their own worst critics – we judge ourselves harshly – but only when we are in fact really good and honest citizens. Criminals couldn’t care less. It was heartbreaking to realize Phineas couldn’t get past his mistakes and thought himself as nothing but a petty criminal. It took Bryn to force him to see the truth by seeing himself through her eyes, and that was an excellent way to show the healing power of love. It packed a powerful punch.

Bryn needed healing as well, but it’s not from something she did as it was something done to her. But first, she had trust someone and with that person, boldly find the courage to stand up and face her fears. That was a hard thing to do when she felt all alone and abandoned. She had good reasons for feeling that way and they were truly awful. The interesting quirk about her character is that even though she felt helpless and hunted, she did find ways to fight back, to help others and to change things that no one wanted to change. The heroine certainly earned the title of “hero” because she didn’t talk, she did, she acted and she made a difference. I liked that about her. Passive aggressive retaliation can be quite effective. Oh, but when she’d finally had enough? When scary push came to threatening shove, I was awed by what the author chose to have happen to Bryn. That was so cool! It was a total surprise not only for me but for a certain jerk of a person. I was so proud of her.

Secondary characters abounded in this book, much to my delight. I always enjoy it when folks arrive from previous stories to help out and kick Malcontent derriere when needed. This tale used them to good effect. There was lots of action, growling, shooting and chasing. The villains were a carryover from the last couple of installments but readers can be assured that Wanted: Undead or Alive can stand on its own merits. Ms. Sparks did throw in plenty of background information to catch a new reader up to speed without being overwhelming or resorting to ‘telling’.

Here’s another aspect of this series that I am pleased with. Even though this is book number twelve, the author continues to earn my devotion because of something she hasn’t done. She has not let this series spiral down into dark depravity and violence. So many of my favorite paranormal series have taken this route to such a degree, it’s no longer worth my time to read in order to reach the HEA. I’m too stressed, am not entertained and find that pushing the envelope to make the villain even worse than the one before does not interest me enough to see his/her downfall. Ms. Sparks has consistently presented stories that have a wonderful balance of light drama and suspense, interesting and varied characters, fun romances and a sense of humor that is refreshing, and runs the gamut of knee slapping and grin inducing or snorting soda out my nose when I least expect it. I can rely on this author to mix things up a bit to keep things fresh and quirky while delivering a story about people I continue to want to know about, to follow and be amazed at. The villains are no less nasty and troublesome but they don’t undermine the romance nor do they overshadow the intent of the story. Even with Queen Corky at her worst, I had the best time.

The dialogue was entertaining and the back and forth snapping between Bryn and Phineas was very insightful. I felt bad for the poor trees, enjoyed getting to know Phineas’ brother, was proud of Phil when he stood up to you-know-who, and got the biggest charge out of Digger and his aluminum hat wearing dog. The pace of the plot was brisk where it needed to be and slowed down when I wanted it to so I could savor the growth of the hero and heroine’s relationship.

Wanted: Undead or Alive is a hoot. There’s plenty of action, thrills and romance to keep a reader satisfied and entertained. It was a long time in coming but Phineas’ happy ever after was worth the wait. I definitely recommend this book to fans of not only the series but any paranormal romance fan who enjoys a smile with their teeth and fur. It’s a keeper and I’m thrilled to add Wanted: Undead or Alive to my pile of beloved books.
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Mar 29, 2012 All Things Urban Fantasy rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-julia

As someone generally unfamiliar with the Love at Stake series, WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE started off very slowly for me. The first several chapters were a crash course in vampire politics, and “Queen Corky” is not the type of villain that could keep my attention. Phineas was up to his neck in some ridiculous reality T.V. plot to find Corky, and it was not until he and Brynley get some face time that the story picked up.

Brynley and Phineas both have emotional scars and insecurities, and I liked how...more As someone generally unfamiliar with the Love at Stake series, WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE started off very slowly for me. The first several chapters were a crash course in vampire politics, and “Queen Corky” is not the type of villain that could keep my attention. Phineas was up to his neck in some ridiculous reality T.V. plot to find Corky, and it was not until he and Brynley get some face time that the story picked up.

Brynley and Phineas both have emotional scars and insecurities, and I liked how they were each looking for someone to love them for themselves. Phineas was tired of being used as a sex toy by women looking for a fling and Brynley wanted someone who love her, not her status as a werewolf princess. There was a fair amount of misunderstandings and hurt feelings between these two, but not to the point where it was annoying. Once they started opening up to each other, things progressed nicely. Of course, by that time, Brynley’s dark family past had been revealed, and my interest in their budding romance was completely eclipsed by a burning desire to see her awful father get his just desserts. Nothing worked out quite the way I expected, however. Brynley’s beloved, long-lost little sister turned out to be oblivious, bumbling, and rather annoying and Brynley’s father got off much, much too lightly for my tastes.

As a romance, WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE is a sweet, funny story of two wounded souls finding true love. Phineas’s Old Spice parody got me to laugh out loud a few times (for a particularly well timed, “Hello, ladies” and his bonding moment with the white stallion), and Brynley’s relationship with her inner wolf was less reverent than entertaining. Unfortunately, on the paranormal side of things, the politics and mythology of WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE were lacking. I still find it very hard to believe that no Alpha werewolf had ever bitten a vampire before, and the vampire/werewolf politics Happily-Ever-After was tepid at best. In WANTED: UNDEAD OR ALIVE love only conquered some, and I can only hope that daddy dearest gets what’s coming to him eventually.

Sexual Content: Sex scenes, references to rape.(less)

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Mar 26, 2012 Dark Faerie Tales rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-kristie

Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Hilarious paranormal romance that follows a werewolf and a vampire’s hot, sweet, sexy and sometimes tumultuous relationship.

Opening Sentence: “Get real, Phineas! You can’t expect me to believe this crap!”

Review:

I have never read a Kerrelyn Sparks novel and I was a little leery about jumping into a story twelve books into a series. Yes, I was a little overwhelmed by the huge cast of characters and who is married to whom and what kind species...more

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Mar 22, 2012 Anna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-books

Jenny's review:

Phineas is a very popular vampire. He is the so called Dr. Love, giving love advice to other vampires, and has recently become the Blardonnay guy, as he has done a commercial for a vampire blood cocktail. He also works for a security company that is currently searching for a rogue vampire who is part of the same group of bad vampires that changed him. Phineas is sent to Wyoming with none other than the girl who hates him the most... Brynley Jones.

Brynley is a werewolf who likes no...more

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Mar 11, 2012 Virginia Campbell rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, humor, romance, suspense

Kerrelyn Sparks keeps the lifeblood flowing for her "Love at Stake" series with "Wanted: Undead or Alive"! Phineas McKinney, once known as "Doctor Phang" or "The Love Doctor" has a life-changing experience when his mortal life is ended by a bunch of very bad vamps--the Malcontents. Rescued by a crew of good-guy blood drinkers, Phin devotes his life to destroying the evil Malcontents. Being one of the undead leads to some soul-searching moments for the formerly footloose and fancy free big city m...more

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Apr 08, 2012 Cindy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Brynley is a werewolf hiding from her father who wants to choose a husband for her, to the extent that she had no say in the matter. Phineas McKinney is a vampire and a security guard for Romatech, the Industry that supplies vampires with flavored and regular bottled blood. When a murdering rogue vampire #1 on the most wanted list disappears into the wind all avenues are looked at to find her. City boy Phineas winds up in the wilds of Wyoming and needs the aid of country girl Brynleys help. Thes...more

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Jul 16, 2012 Cherise rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-or-review-copy, paranormal-fantasy-romance

Phineas McKinney is a fairly new vamp. Turned by a vicious group of vampires known as Malcontents, Phineas eventually left the dark side and joined the good team. Together they have been battling the Malcontents and recently were the victors when they were able to kill the leader. Now there is a new leader in control of the Malcontents and Phin is working with his vamp security company to bring them down. When it is discovered that the Malcontent leader may be on Werewolf property, he is forced...more

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May 01, 2012 Debbie rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Romance readers

Wanted: Dead or Alive, Kerrelyn Sparks; Phineas McKinney is one of the newest and youngest of the vampires working at McKay Security and Investigations, but he’s the head of security at Romatech. He is now in charge of bringing Corky Courrant to justice because she’s become the leader and queen of the Malcontents. Phineas brings in his younger brother Freemont to be a day time guard at McKay S&I and lets him in on his little secret, vampires really do exist and he’s one of them. Meantime Phi...more

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Apr 11, 2012 Pansy rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love the Love at Stakes series. The books are not filled with a lot of sex which is okay because the stories are good. They are simple stories with action, suspense and romance. They can be cheesy but that is okay. I want cheesy sometimes. My only complaint would be that sometimes the sexual tension lasts a little too long and by the time the couple gets together it is toward the end of the book and she rushes through it.

When the two characters, Phineas and Bryn, finally had sex it lasted for...more

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Apr 15, 2012 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars

I’ve been a fan of the Kerrilyn Sparks Love at Stake series for a while and now twelve books in this is the gift that keeps on giving. I’ve noticed that the covers can sometimes make you think that the book is going to be dark and scary but I’ve always found them to be light hearted and funny. Don’t get me wrong, the mystery/suspense in each book is well written and is an edge-of-your-seat page turner almost every time, but the humor that Ms. Sparks interjects is something that keeps me coming b...more

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Mar 30, 2012 Lidia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Brynley, is beautiful, rich, is the daughter of a powerful Alpha, is white and ... especially hates vampires. Phineas is colored, and being a young vampire lives alone with his salary? A relationship between the two seems impossible, but the attraction is strong and the two are forced to work together to give out their feelings. Of course the priority is to hunt down Corky, self-proclaimed Queen of Malcontents, but they must also face with Brynley's father. Twelfth book in the series and the ton...more

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About Kerrelyn Sparks

Kerrelyn Sparks is the New York Times bestselling author of a series that mimics its sexy heroes by refusing to die. Now up to book twelve, the Love at Stake series spreads laughter worldwide in thirteen different languages. In spite of a tendency to nibble on necks or howl at the moon, Kerrelyn’s vampire and shapeshifter heroes are still wonderfully romantic.

Please visit www.kerrelynsparks.com w...more

More about Kerrelyn Sparks...

Books by Kerrelyn Sparks

How to Marry a Millionaire Vampire (Love at Stake, #1)

The Undead Next Door (Love at Stake, #4)

All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire (Love at Stake, #5)

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Quotes from Wanted: Undead or Alive

“Damn.” Phineas turned the Big Boy off, then noticed he’d left the box on the bed. Damn, had Zoltan seen it? He stuffed the phallus back into the box, but must have jammed too hard, for it started wiggling again.
“Stop it.” He punched a button, but it merely increased its speed, the tip spiraling in wild circles.
Damn! He watched in horror. It was like a whirlybird on steroids! How could a man compete with that? He ripped the balls off it and emptied out the batteries. “Die, you freakin’ dildo, die!” — 15 people liked it

“Jack zoomed into the clearing at vampire speed. His eyes widened at the sight of Phineas and Brynley hovering twelve feet in the air. “I heard a gunshot. Are you all right?”
“Dagnabbit! Another alien!” Digger bellowed.
“Where?” Jack glanced behind him, then gasped when Digger shifted back into a bear and charged. He levitated, too. “Merda! Now I see why you’re floating.” — 14 people liked it

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Wanted: Undead or Alive (Love at Stake #12)

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