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Hard Bitten (Chicagoland Vampires #4)

by Chloe Neill (Goodreads Author)

4.2 of 5 stars 4.20 · rating details · 13,270 ratings · 1,525 reviews

Times are hard for newly minted vampire Merit. Ever since shapeshifters announced their presence to the world, humans have been rallying against supernaturals-and they're camping outside of Cadogan House with protest signs that could turn to pitchforks at any moment. Inside its doors, things between Merit and her Master, green-eyed heartbreaker Ethan Sullivan are...tense....more

ebook, 275 pages

Published May 3rd 2011 by Penguin Group (first published April 12th 2011)

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May 09, 2011 Kat Kennedy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: kat-s-book-reviews

It's going to be really difficult for me to give this book a rating because equally divergent parts of me both enjoyed and disliked aspects of this book. Thus I figured a nicely rounded three star rating accurately reflects my ambivalence toward this novel.

On the positive side, Hard Bitten is an easy to read and mostly enjoyable book providing that you enjoy the narration of the main character and protagonist, Merit.

Luckily I do enjoy her narration and respect her as a character.

This story, mor...more

74 likes · like · see review

Oct 03, 2011 Erika Badass rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: may-2011, kindle

Spoiler Free, I think.

ADDED:
I am an admittedly emotional reviewer, and this book really pissed me off. I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, and I have no ill will towards the author, Ms. Neill. I mostly enjoy these novels, but I cannot get behind cliffhangers. I know that if you read this review Ms. Neill, that you will take this personally, because you are human, and you are the creator of this universe in Merit Land, but I ask you to put aside your personal feelings, and know that I don't know you...more
Spoiler Free, I think.

ADDED:
I am an admittedly emotional reviewer, and this book really pissed me off. I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, and I have no ill will towards the author, Ms. Neill. I mostly enjoy these novels, but I cannot get behind cliffhangers. I know that if you read this review Ms. Neill, that you will take this personally, because you are human, and you are the creator of this universe in Merit Land, but I ask you to put aside your personal feelings, and know that I don't know you personally. I'm sure you are the nicest human being ever, and maybe you help old people cross the street, pick up garbage on the side of the roads when your not writing, and donate all your money to charity. Still? This book pissed me off. I'm sorry. It's not you. It's me.

Really? You went there? Seriously? Have you been talking with Karen Moning, taking lessons? (No flames, I love KMM minus the mammoth cliffhangers) Didn't you read any reviews, blogs or pissy conversations about how fans truly HATE cliffhangers and this type of plot device? Or maybe you have been talking with Kim Harrison? She did a similar thing with (view spoiler) You ask us to trust you, why should we? Because you have a grand plan? Trust must be earned, and the constant back and forth battles between Ethan and Merit--the constant lies, and half truths--make it difficult for a reader to trust the author.

I lose faith in authors who do this, and I hope that it is not just for Shock value that you went there.

Now then, I have some ideas on where I think you might be going, and what you did, and with whom. I'm interested to see if my brain is heading in the right direction, but really feel like I should tell you that I didn't need this type of ending to make me want to read your next novel. I was already invested in Merit, Ethan and the gang.

Oh, and Death to the GP!!! Bunch of wankers.

I debated ranting and raving like a book reading lunatic, but I just can’t summon the energy. I seem to be zapped and tapped.

(less)

63 likes · like · see review

Oct 13, 2011 Jen rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: neill

WTH. I cannot even describe how I feel right now. Wait, yes I can. Betrayed. That is how I feel. Betrayed. Depressed. Devastated. Pissed.

Out of simple respect for the author I will refrain from giving this book a 1 star rating until I read Drink Deep. However, I must say that I would have read Drink Deep anyway. I didn't need some big, horrible shocker to keep on with this series. I will not read the series past Drink Deep though, if it is not resolved in a way that I like.

Sorry, not really, bu...more

57 likes · like · see review

Aug 06, 2012 The Flooze rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy-paranormal, vanquished_2011, owned

I declare Chloe Neill to be a ballsy bitch. I’m thinking loophole because of one detail in the final pages, but that’s all I’ll discuss about the ending.

I had some problems with the third installment. I’m pleased to say they didn't crop up again in Hard Bitten. Merit’s snark was back up to par, Ethan garnered the right amount of sympathy, and Mallory was a friend rather than an irritation. Recapping was kept to a minimum, with Neill dishing out just enough to jar my memory. The pacing was smooth...more I declare Chloe Neill to be a ballsy bitch. I’m thinking loophole because of one detail in the final pages, but that’s all I’ll discuss about the ending.

I had some problems with the third installment. I’m pleased to say they didn't crop up again in Hard Bitten. Merit’s snark was back up to par, Ethan garnered the right amount of sympathy, and Mallory was a friend rather than an irritation. Recapping was kept to a minimum, with Neill dishing out just enough to jar my memory. The pacing was smooth and quick, with every chapter offering progress. Following Merit on her investigation was wholly enjoyable, and my mind was working double-time to figure out the criminals’ motivations. The big reveal was shocking in several ways; Neill showed excellent timing and skill in doling out details while still withholding one or two puzzle pieces until the very end.

We get a little more information on magic, which makes me hopeful that the sorcerer contingent will soon be coming to the fore. (Although, if every sorcerer’s personality is as abrasive as Mal's and Catcher’s, maybe that’s not a good thing.) We also catch glimpses of Gabriel and Tonya, as well as members of other supernatural communities; it’s nice to have the races rounded out, even if they mostly stick to the background. And Neill once again makes Chicago an important character unto itself. Though I’m not familiar with the city, I continue to feel the author’s fondness and knowledge of its many neighborhoods, its people, and its traditions. It’s nice to read a series where the setting is not just a cardboard backdrop, especially because Merit is so fiercely attached to her hometown.

I don’t know where the series is going at this stage, though I have some vague guesses. My experience with Chicago Vampires has included some frustration, but I am grateful for one thing: Ms. Neill does her best to let the story unfold naturally. She does not telegraph her next move. She keeps the plot fresh and us readers on our toes. There’s a lot of fodder for speculation after this one - the events are game-changing - but Chloe Neill has won my respect. I think I can trust her to make all the shock and drama worthwhile.(less)

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May 02, 2011 Catherine rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary, fantasy-paranormal-sci-fi, magic-mystical-ability, series, vampire, were-shifter, first-reads-arcs-won-a-copy, fiction-vixen-reviews, crime-police-mystery-private-invest, read-2011

If you haven’t read any of the previous books I strongly recommend that you do not jump into the series here. A large draw for the series is Ethan and Merit and their connection. Their attraction grows with each book and it’s best to read them in order and watch the tension build. Plus, you’ll probably be lost about the current situation with the humans if you haven’t at least read the last book.

Starting this book, I was pretty nervous. The last book, Twice Bitten, took me high and then it drop...more

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Oct 16, 2011 Juliana rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: EVERYONE!! But only after having read Books 1-3

Shelves: paranormal-romance, library-book, part-of-a-romance-series, pnr-magic-supernatural, pnr-vampires, pnr-urban-fantasy, 2011-jul-reads, 2011-reads, best-romance-heroes-ever, 0-wishlist-buy-in-dead-tree-form, 0-reviewed, challenge-2011-rlci-july, challenge-2011-rrrc-the-4-elements, 2011-reads-my-favorites-of-the-year, all-time-best-romance-heroes-ever, went-a-little-status-update-crazy, 4-to-5-stars, 4-half-stars

4.5 stars

Post Script, written October 2011 (don't read unless you've read #5): (view spoiler)

Okay, so it was fantastic!!! So great. I loved Ethan in it (as always) and I finally loved (well ... liked a lot) Merit as well. The other characters were great as always and the subplot was really well-done.

The best of the series so far, IMO, though this is a series that you have...more 4.5 stars

Post Script, written October 2011 (don't read unless you've read #5): (view spoiler)

Okay, so it was fantastic!!! So great. I loved Ethan in it (as always) and I finally loved (well ... liked a lot) Merit as well. The other characters were great as always and the subplot was really well-done.

The best of the series so far, IMO, though this is a series that you have to read in order and none of the books can be fully enjoyed as stand-alones, so while it will take you three other books to get here, I think it's definitely worth it.

Don't feel like writing a full review, but I have to address The Issue briefly. It's in spoiler tags below - do not click on the spoiler unless you have already read the book!!!!!!

(view spoiler)[You guys! It was a fantastic ending!! Because we learn more about her changing - the timing of which was always suspicious - so many more things are explained now (like Celina's crazy obsession), AND we know that from the beginning Ethan was a good guy. And Jesus, continued to be a good guy - look what he did for her!!!

Now, why am I not bothered despite my unbelievably profound and bordering-on-crazed Ethan obsession? Well ...

* #1 * This is a paranormal book; I'm new to the genre, but I know that means anything the author wants to happen can - we're not dealing with the real world and real world constraints

* #2 * Readers universally adore Ethan (with the exception of maybe one or two deranged holdouts ;-)

* #3 * I'm assuming Neill wants to continue having a successful writing career and has no desire to be hunted down by crazed and heartbroken fan

All of which equals ... Hello?!?!?! He's going to come back!!!! And knowing that, I can easily take a "cliffhanger" like this, which again, I don't really think is much of one because I don't see any other possible way that the series continues unless she brings him back.

The end of the first Cat-Bones book was annoying; this I loved, because we get to see how much Ethan is willing to sacrifice for Merit and how much he truly loves her. Who I'm still undecided about and not sure she merits (pun completely intended) that type of devotion. Her annoyingess lessens as I make my way through the series though, so she's growing on me.

I think that call of her name at the end of the dream was definitely him, somehow lingering, and they did that ceremony at the lake and that's what is talked about in the next book.

You GUYS (or GALS, since I don't think I have any male GR friends reading this), WE ARE GOLDEN!.

My only complaint about the ending (and surprise, surprise, it has to do with my favorite character: Merit) was the very end of the book, after the dream, where Merit is pulling herself together and saying she's ready to go back to work. I wanted some sign that she was still heartbroken, some sentence that said how she didn't know she could ever love someone else or it would always weigh her heart down or some ridiculously cheesy thing like that. The man took a stake for you!!! Plus, the stages of grief take way longer than 2 weeks, babe. (hide spoiler)]

And for your eye-candy, I'll re-post who my Ethan is (Alexander Skarsgård):

(less)

18 likes · like · see review

Apr 21, 2011 Mariya rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, vampires, books-i-own, action-packed, bad-ass-hero, best-couple-award, cliffhanger-disaster, cover-lover, emotional-wreck, epicness-happening, great-dialogue, heartbreaking, hottie-harem, kick-ass-heroine, laugh-out-loud, lovable-heroine, possessive-hero, re-read-material, sexual-tension, side-character-love, swoon-moments, ultimate-alpha

Oh, Chloe Neill, you might as well have just staked me. Hard Bitten will leave you speechless, breathless and possibly leave you full of many many emotions. I loved it and hated it at the same time. And you will get my meaning when you flip to the last page of this book.

You guys have no idea how much I want to explode right now, explode all the secrets of this book, but I won't. I pray that the next week goes by fast so I can finally discuss with all my buddies, but this book was a roller coast...more

19 likes · like · see review

May 19, 2011 Lisa O. rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, with-smut, uf-or-pnr

Gosh, am I pissed at this book. Angry. Could I go back and choose I wouldn't even read it now. I would wait and pick it up together with Drink Deep in November.

Neill, you cannot possibly bore me for almost 200 pages and then drop the bomb 10 pages from the back cover. I feel betrayed and irritated because this screams very much like a mean marketing strategy. This isn't even a cliffhanger. This is what cliffhangers hang on. Do I make sense? Probably not.
You know, of the people who read this on...more Gosh, am I pissed at this book. Angry. Could I go back and choose I wouldn't even read it now. I would wait and pick it up together with Drink Deep in November.

Neill, you cannot possibly bore me for almost 200 pages and then drop the bomb 10 pages from the back cover. I feel betrayed and irritated because this screams very much like a mean marketing strategy. This isn't even a cliffhanger. This is what cliffhangers hang on. Do I make sense? Probably not.
You know, of the people who read this one, who is NOT going to buy Drink Deep? Nobody, that's who. Even me, who thought that 80 % of the book was boring. How can I leave it like that?

So, first part, as I said, was slow for me. Too much politics, too much investigation and detective story. I was not into the V intrigue and fairly pissed at the appearance of Claudius. CLAUDIUS? How original for a centuries-old, bad vampire coming from Europe. Charlaine Harris and Stephenie Meyer did not think of that before. I'm not saying that the plot wasn't interesting but it dragged on for tooo long. Where is my favorite character ever in this book? Where is Mallory??? We just see glimpses of her in this book and they're all pretty senseless, hinting at loose ends and future development.

Actually this is the book of loose ends, no closure whatsoever with anybody. "Unresolved" should be the title of this book. Except for one character, who I hope never to see again, the rest is all hanging in the air, waiting for next book to come out and give readers some peace of mind. This is maybe the reason Neill is coming out with two books this year. The risk of harassment and stalking would have been pretty high, had she left us with our mouths hanging open till next year.

Now about the final 10 pages. (view spoiler)

Now, the question is: what's next? what will be the strategy, the loophole, that is going to solve the big mess the last pages left us in? Neill, you said everything is already planned, you better make it convincing for us, because fantasy has a limit as well and I don't want to waste my time waiting for a far-fetched lame excuse for a HEA.

So three stars and waiting for November.

(less)

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Nov 13, 2012 Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult

Hal-le-freakin-lujah. I finally finished this book after how many months?

First attempt : March 2012

Second attempt : August 2012

Can you really blame me when I had this book's ending spoiled for me way back when it was first released? I ended up reading Hard Bitten in 3 separate parts because my motivation was stolen, given the fact that I knew what was up ahead.

Since then I've had books 5 and 6 spoiled for me, so I really should either quit reading this series, or get caught up so I can read the...more

8 likes · like · see review

Nov 19, 2011 Stephanie added it · review of another edition

"No. I will never be far behind you." He tipped up my chin so that I could do nothing else but look back into his eyes." "Do the things you need to do. Learn to be a vampire, to be a warrior, to be the soldier you are capable of being. But consider the possibility that I made a mistake I regret—and that I'll continue to regret that mistake and try to convince you to give me another chance until the earth stops turning." page 88 Hard Bitten

MARKETING COPY

Times are hard for newly minted vampi

...more

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Nov 16, 2011 Lady Valee rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

I really disliked the ending. Not the whole book, but the ending killed all my fascination with the series. I would've rated it higher but I just can't with an ending like this one. The book was great but when something as big as this happens right at the end it changes everything. These are the reasons for why I am completely against this book:

(view spoiler)...more I really disliked the ending. Not the whole book, but the ending killed all my fascination with the series. I would've rated it higher but I just can't with an ending like this one. The book was great but when something as big as this happens right at the end it changes everything. These are the reasons for why I am completely against this book:

(view spoiler)

Now for those of you who want something from me which is not a spoiler know that I'm glad I waited to read this book because I probably would have abandonded the series if it wasn't because I now know next book is already out and things will eventually get back as they should. If I had to wait a whole year after this tragic ending I don't think I would be strong enough to keep reading. Don't get me wrong, I loved the rest of the books and I KNOW things will get better again, but the shock of what happened was too much for me.

How could you guys rate this book with 5 stars?? Know that all of those who did completely broke my heart. I love this author too guys, but this book crossed the line IMHO.How can you be ok with something like this happening? It may get better in the next books but the rating is about this one. How could you rate with 5 stars a book with an ending like this one? It's ok for an author to search ways to impact and shock their audience but I believe there are some limits that should never be crossed.

(less)

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Aug 29, 2011 Bonnie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, pn-vampires, adult

I thought long and hard about what I wanted to say in my review but I simply couldn't find the words necessary that wouldn't also give the book away. So in the end I decided that I was going to sum it up with this:

17 likes · like · see review

May 15, 2011 Elena R a.k.a. Lunies R rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: I rec, for no one to read this series till the series is complete

Shelves: pnr-fantasy

In the previous book "Twice Bitten" The Cardogen House, goes through a rough patch and now the humans of Chicago know all about the paranormal beings that live in their city, from Shape-Shifters to Vampires.Which, little do they know they're are more paranormal species out there, whom are not willing to show their existence to the human world yet. That being said, the humans aren't thrilled to be living amongst Vampires. They make their presence known in this book, the humans won't tolerate havi...more In the previous book "Twice Bitten" The Cardogen House, goes through a rough patch and now the humans of Chicago know all about the paranormal beings that live in their city, from Shape-Shifters to Vampires.Which, little do they know they're are more paranormal species out there, whom are not willing to show their existence to the human world yet. That being said, the humans aren't thrilled to be living amongst Vampires. They make their presence known in this book, the humans won't tolerate having vampires in their city,they think parking their rear-ends in front of the Cardogen house to protest that somehow the Vampires will leave the city and vanish. Ahhh...No way Jose', these people are straight loonies if you ask me! Vampires will be around way after the humans have expired.So they can just dream on.

As for Ethan and Merits relationship.Ethan spent the last two months regretting his decision and trying to make amends, after their terrible breakup on how the two of them being together was a no-go, he didn't wanna take the emotional risk of their relationship putting their House at risk. Ethan being the Master of Cadogen House and Merit being the Sentinel of the Cardogen house, basically mixing business and pleasure he found was a bit too risky he couldn't afford.Now he wishes he could take it all back, swoon Merit and win her again, now realizing that Merit is his everything. Well, there's definitely plenty of swooning but Merit isn't falling for it. Their hearts are in the right place, but is it enough?On that note I'm not going into details since I have many sketchy thoughts on "Why the situation escalated the way it did and ended" Nuff Said!

Well someones on the patrol of selling a certain drug for Vampires, it weakened their inhibitions toward violence and gave then the incredibility what they were doing was right and no one can stop them from causing mayhem.(The Hulk, kinda adrenaline) In the meantime the Mayor of city doesn't like all the publicitybetween the Vampires and Humans.( Or so he saids) So his easy way out of the situation is to blame the Cardogen House, he basically blackmails Ethan, that if no one takes control of the situation and finds out what's really going on, he was holding Ethan responsible for all the mayhem and sending a warrant for his arrest. Which is a LOAD OF CRAP! I'm not sure how I read this entire book without falling apart. *Sighs*

My thoughts on this book?

I'm completely baffled the way the novel ended. I wanted to sneer some curse words and burn the book. My reactions were "Why?!?!, Seriously?, WTF?,Really?,I'm confused!, *Wants to pull hair* How?!, What happened? *Agitated,Cries from frustration* Broken hearted! Do readers deserve this treatment? It's tormenting, uncalled for. Cliffhangers are one thing, but omitting one of my favorite characters?!?!? I'm trying to stay sane here. It's very difficult!

I'm upset and lost for words. Emotionally Distraught is more like it. Accepting the fact that I knew what I was getting into when reading this book, the unexpected made me miserable beyond measures. I'm afraid to look forward to the next book in the series *Sobs* I feel hurt and betrayed.

My upmost favorite quote, from Ethan to Merit "You can run.You can keep running to the ends of the earth. But I won't be far behind you"

My Goodness! That quote shatters me, I have fallen into tears once again. *Sighs*

(less)

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Aug 26, 2012 Lady Allison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vamps, chloe-neill, my-manly-harem

I finally read it.

But I don't think I can review it. I love Merit & Ethan. It's still too painful.

This is me:

I am SO glad I waited until more books were released so I didn't have to torture myself with that ending. Now to read how she intends to fix this mess...

10 likes · like · see review

May 02, 2011 All Things Urban Fantasy added it · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed-by-julia

If TWICE BITTEN was about the flash and bang of giving into attraction for the first time, HARD BITTEN is about the chemistry and conflict of evaluating a long term relationship. Half way through this book, I was struck by how much I've grown to love series. Not just for the characters and the action within, but also for the decisions Chloe Neill has made as an author. Neill takes the long view, just as her immortal heroine Merit is learning to do, and never is that so apparent as in HARD BITTEN...more

5 likes · like · see review

May 03, 2011 Susie rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Now that I've had a good night's rest, some time to digest, read other people's thoughts, and the author's few statements, here is where I'm at...

Action = I'll read Drink Deep and decide whether I'll continue with the series or abandon it and pretend that the last 2 books didn't happen (ends for me at Twice Bitten).

Rant #2 = I'm a bit annoyed at some reviews where they call this move bold, gutsy and/or an action other authors would never risk. Really? What books have they been reading? (view sp ...more Now that I've had a good night's rest, some time to digest, read other people's thoughts, and the author's few statements, here is where I'm at...

Action = I'll read Drink Deep and decide whether I'll continue with the series or abandon it and pretend that the last 2 books didn't happen (ends for me at Twice Bitten).

Rant #2 = I'm a bit annoyed at some reviews where they call this move bold, gutsy and/or an action other authors would never risk. Really? What books have they been reading? (view spoiler) And if this is a taste of what's to come with her future books, I don't know if I can completely be on board if it's going to be one extreme cliffhanger ending after another. I can deal with minor ones like her previous books, but not what happened at the end of Hard Bitten.

Feelings = So overall I'm still very disappointed, yet a teeny bit hopeful b/c CN asks us to trust her. The book was enjoyable, I love the way she writes, and we see a lot of character growth (albeit one in particular did seem accelerated.)

I hope by the time I'm through with Drink Deep, it all becomes clear on why CN took it in the direction she did. My trust was hers by the end of Book 3, but it's been shaken.

____________________________________
(Review from 05/03/11 - spoilers now hidden by spoiler tags)
Major spoilers. Seriously, don't read if you don't want to know what the "shocking events" are.

So I finished the book, and I normally give myself a few hours or days to digest it and write a review. I obviously felt differently, and very strongly, for this particular book and decided to post my feelings immediately.

My mistake was only reading the reviews on sites I saw off of the author's webpage. Those reviews were positive and mentioned things like "a great ending" and "shocking event." I should have checked Goodreads as well. Honestly, the shocking event was TRULY shocking. I didn't think she'd go there, and, like another reviewer, I'm afraid of where this series is headed. (view spoiler) There is nothing I detest more than cliffhanger endings. Those of you who disagree with this label, think of it as being/feeling incomplete. That's what Hard Bitten feels like for me. When Twice Bitten came out last year, I read it over and over again for months. It felt like a complete book, even though things weren't necessarily worked out. But this one, it feels incomplete. I don't want to pick up this effing book again.

So yeah, at least I know I'm not alone in my hatred for the ending. Maybe Drink Deep will make me feel better. But for now, I feel very unsure about this series overall. (less)

15 likes · like · see review

Mar 05, 2011 ൠSinful rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adventure, contemporary, full-novel, gal-pal-group, magic-users, shifters, vampires, uf, suspense

OMG.

Speechless.

Breathless.

OMG.

This changes everything. Holy cow.
Go. Preorder this now. Plan to stay up late. ~~Have alcohol near by.~~ scratch that. Alcohol will make you fall asleep.... CHOCOLATE! That's it. You MUST have LOADS of chocolate. The book should come with a bar strapped to it. (and an oxygen tank.. I could really use an oxygen tank right about now)

I can't post my official review until it hits the review site first.. so I'll add it in May. After y'all read it and it's too late. Suffic...more

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Apr 26, 2011 Sophia (FV) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I do not reveal spoilers in the review but my reaction to the book may be considered spoilery.

Originally reviewed at Fiction Vixen by Sophia and Catherine.

I readThe Chicagoland Vampires series back to back with no break in between books. In reading the series this way I feel like I’ve spent a lot of time with the characters and become heavily invested in their stories. I’ve enjoyed each book with its solid world building, great who-done-it type mysteries and the smoking hot, albeit frustrating...more

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Aug 04, 2011 Anzu The Great Destroyer rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: the strong-hearted

Shelves: ball-busting-chicks, second-best, zomg-i-must-have-him, paranormal-fix, the-fantasy-of-urbans, fanged-and-deadly, furry-wild-and-rabid, reviewed-2011, a-bit-of-mush

Wow… I just finished reading this and I’m still trying to catch my breath. I saw, before starting it, many people cursing the author because she did something really bad in Hard Bitten. I hate spoilers so I tried so damn hard avoiding any hint that would ruin the experience of reading this for me. Now I was sure something will happen, I won’t say what, and in the end it happened exactly how I imagined it. More or less…

Wow again… my heart is still beating faster; I was so damn close to crying… I...more

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May 26, 2011 Francesca the Fierce ~Eyelet Ecstasy~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: series-chicagoland-vampires, genre-urban-fantasy, werewolves-shifters, vampires, witches-shaman-magic, books-read-2011, read-audio-books

This review was posted at Under The Covers

Chicago is in a bit of an uproar against vampires, who are being accused of murdering humans at raves. Ethan has a warrant for his arrest out from the CPD. Cadogan House is still under repairs. Humans are protesting outside the House.

Merit is now forced to investigate these human murders to clear Ethan's name, using Jonah as an ally, they try to infiltrate the raves to gather information, and stumble upon a drug that is making vampires crazy and brings o...more

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Nov 07, 2011 Julie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2011

As seen at http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?...

OMG and holy hell and WTF all wrapped into one. If you are as invested in Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Vampires series that is what you’ll be thinking when you finish Hard Bitten, the fourth book in the series. Well, that and WHY WHY WHY? thrown in for fun.

Before talking about how you’ll feel when you close the book, let me talk about how you’ll feel while reading up to the dreaded chapter. You will love this book! Merit is still spunky and smart,...more As seen at http://yummymenandkickasschicks.com/?...

OMG and holy hell and WTF all wrapped into one. If you are as invested in Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Vampires series that is what you’ll be thinking when you finish Hard Bitten, the fourth book in the series. Well, that and WHY WHY WHY? thrown in for fun.

Before talking about how you’ll feel when you close the book, let me talk about how you’ll feel while reading up to the dreaded chapter. You will love this book! Merit is still spunky and smart, but a little more grounded this time around. She is fully comfortable with her position as House Sentinel and is doing a great job with it. She is also fully comfortable with being a vampire so we’re not getting the ‘woe is me’ stuff that tends to sneak in once in a while in the other books. And she knows that she needs time from Ethan to get some perspective. I totally respect her for that too. Do I think she’s nuts not jumping all over that game? Well yes, yes I do. But I understand her and respect her for her decision. ;)

And Ethan? Well, he has softened! It’s almost like he’s more approachable in this installment. He’s still very much in charge, but he’s not afraid of showing a little vulnerability when it comes to Merit…and I for one am really liking this new and improved Ethan. Since he’s not worried about showing and telling Merit how he feels about her, he is saying some spectacularly *swoon* worthy lines!

We also get little glimpses here and there of the other characters we all have grown to love over the course of this series. Catcher (love!), Jeff (love!) and Mallory (love!). Jonah, who we met in the last book, plays a more important role in this one. There was Team Morgan, Team Catcher, Team Jeff and Team Ethan. Will there soon be a Team Jonah? I really liked him and I wouldn’t be surprised if a Team would pop up sooner rather than later. (It’ll be hard to thwart Team Ethan though)

Even the mystery in this book is cool. Chloe does a good job with it. You really don’t have any idea where it’s all headed until you finally get there and you’re thinking “Ooohh. Well that does sort of make sense. That evil buggar.”

The whole book is great! It’s just that ending! Did the author write that Ethan slept with another vampire? Did she write that Merit married someone from another House? Did she write that Ethan married Celine? Well, as if I’d tell you. But just trust me in this: Read it expecting one hell of a shocker. Hopefully that will lessen the blow for you once you reach Chapter 24. I ache just thinking about it… It’s just so…mean!

We must have faith. Chloe has said that we need to trust her. Even though I do not agree with what she did in this book, I am willing to do that…as long as she fixes this in the next book, Drink Deep, in November 2011. Otherwise, I think I may just lose faith in this series. But even with the jaw dropping ending, I loved this book. As usual, Chloe gave us a great story with great characters you can’t help but adore. (less)

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May 04, 2011 Danielle rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own, first-reads-arcs, urban-fantasy-fiction

When I first got the ARC in the mail I was completely ecstatic. We've all been waiting for such a long time to see when and/or if Merit will forgive Ethan for breaking it off with her so abruptly. True to form, Hard Bitten allowed us to see a different side of Ethan, a kinder and much more sensitive side of the master manipulator as he tries to gain Merit's trust and forgiveness. I for one fell more in love with Ethan's character in this book. Chloe Neill did a great job with his character in t...more When I first got the ARC in the mail I was completely ecstatic. We've all been waiting for such a long time to see when and/or if Merit will forgive Ethan for breaking it off with her so abruptly. True to form, Hard Bitten allowed us to see a different side of Ethan, a kinder and much more sensitive side of the master manipulator as he tries to gain Merit's trust and forgiveness. I for one fell more in love with Ethan's character in this book. Chloe Neill did a great job with his character in this book, this was Ethan's book to shine. Throughout the book he just seemed to say and do the right thing, especially as Cadogan House and he himself is attacked by vampires and human alike.

In the wake of Were attack on Cadogan house in Twice Bitten, Merit's job as Sentinel has expanded as the hate for vampires rise in Chicago. Merit and Ethan are even targeted by a group of mercenary military types carrying guns with wooden bullets. There is a general feeling of hate in Chicago that has put vampires on the defense, especially Cadogan vampires. People are afraid of what they do not understand and now they feel like vampires are the cause of the problems in Chicago. Ethan and Merit have a lot on their plate with just trying to rebuild Cadogan house but Mayor Tate adds to it when he brings news of recent complaints regarding violent attacks. Mayor Tate orders Merit and Ethan to look into the raves where vampires are rumored to be uncontrollably feeding from human, or else. I know I know, what can he do right? I don't want to give too much away but needless to say he threatens to cause problems for the Cadogan house with the Greenwich Presidium.

Ethan is thrown by this threat and has to trust Merit to look out for his and the house's best interest. Ethan, himself cannot get involved because he has been prohibited from getting involved in human politics by none other than the head of the Presidium. This forces Merit to get help from another sector, her -for a minute- potential Red Guard partner Jonah. I was frustrated by the author's decision to throw these two together again, it felt like the author was trying to prepare us for another Morgan-like relationship, aka a relationship where Merit likes the dude but LOVES Ethan and therefore can never be happy. Feelings may have even developed on Jonah's side but we are never told whether they were reciprocated by Merit. Merit has too much to deal with in Hard Bitten and a relationship with anyone is far from her mind. After she has had Ethan, a relationship with anyone else would be like a consolation prize right? (Haha, I know I'm showing my bias but just in case you can't tell my favorite CV character is Ethan)

As Merit investigates these raves she butts heads with Presidium head, Darius. But regardless of his threat to her and Cadogan house, the best thing for Cadogan house was to have Ethan as their leader and her job as Sentinel is to protect the house and Ethan is the house. Secrets are revealed in Hard Bitten that will blow your mind. At the end of the book things are left uncertain for Cadogan House. Will Merit join the Red Guard after all that has happened? Will she ever truly recover? Will we?

I don't want to reveal too much with this review but I have always maintained that a great book is one that makes the reader feel. This book was that for me. I actually cried after reading this book, it just really touched me. It took me a two weeks to actually build up the courage to face what actually occured in this book. As Chloe requested we not post any spoilers on her facebook page, I too will abstain from posting any on this review eventhough I'm itching to tell you what happens at the end. I'll wait a month or so before I say anything. Don't get me wrong, I am far from happy about how this book ended and funny enough I even felt like I needed therapy because of it. However, it does not take away from the fact that this was a good read. A definite must read especially if you're a CV fan. Let me know what you think!!!(less)

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Apr 20, 2011 Cheryl rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Arrgghh. I don't like to give reviews with spoilers especially since I'm a few days early. I was lucky enough to get this book through a charity that had received it as a donation to raise funds for their non-profit. Of course I gobbled it up and it was a worthy cause. I was excited by the action. I was excited by the friendships developing. It was a well told story. I was angry that some things did not go the a way I would have liked them to go. I love Merit, Ethan, Luc, Mallory, Jeff, and even...more

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Oct 13, 2011 Cindyg rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I can't rate this f---ing book. My heart is broken...don't know if I can even go on with the damn series...it's not going to be the same...and I can't say more without giving to much away.
I can't tell you the last time I cried when reading a book but today I cried, I was hurt to my core. Not much more I can say except this was the one thing I never saw coming and I wished I'd never seen. Maybe I should have waited to write this review; it hard to be objective when my heart is breaking.

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May 24, 2011 Zemira Warner rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult, urban-fantasy, vampire, witches, my-emotions, favorite

Chloe Neill what the hell are you doing to my poor heart?! Why did the book had to end in that way? Why??
I need some answers right away! I was crying so hard(I know,I know,I cry almost at the end of every book.)
Did not see that one coming.

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May 08, 2011 Wendy Darling rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pn-vampires, pn-shapeshifters, adult, pnr-urban-fantasy, heroines-butt-kicking, read-2011, 2011-favorites, training-schools-supernaturals, 2011-publication, action-packed

HOLY CRAP.

I don't think I can write a coherent review. You have punched me in the face, Chloe Neill. Now you'd better put some ice on it.

There was a tiny part of me that thought some things that happened were out of character throughout the book, but...I so did not see this coming. What the heck happens now...?

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Jan 13, 2012 ~Jessica~I'm a Hoodie Ninja~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-books, paranormal-smut-urban-fantasy, vampires, werewolves-wolves-shifters, witches-wizards-shamans, utc-2012-challenge

What? Why? Ms. Neil WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?

Tissue. That's what everyone said I needed for this book.

You know what I want to do? Bash Celina's face in with a crow bar.

I AM LIVID!
I AM GRIEVING!

I NEED A DRINK...That's what you need for this book. not tissues, a fecking bottle.

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Apr 28, 2011 Mandi Schreiner rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: uf

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I have become quite invested in the Chicagoland Vampire series. From the early pages of book one, I fell in love with Merit’s snark, her strength and her on and off again relationship with the Master of Cadogan House, Ethan Sullivan. Combined with wonderful supporting characters (Mallory, Catcher and Jeff are three of my favorites!) I greatly anticipate these books.

Hard Bitten focuses on the fallout of the attack on Cadogan house in the previous book. Although vampires have been known to the pub...more I have become quite invested in the Chicagoland Vampire series. From the early pages of book one, I fell in love with Merit’s snark, her strength and her on and off again relationship with the Master of Cadogan House, Ethan Sullivan. Combined with wonderful supporting characters (Mallory, Catcher and Jeff are three of my favorites!) I greatly anticipate these books.

Hard Bitten focuses on the fallout of the attack on Cadogan house in the previous book. Although vampires have been known to the public for some time, their novelty is wearing off and many have taken to protesting in front of the houses, no longer thrilled with the idea of vampires living side by side with them. The houses are on lock down, and the mayor is putting pressure on the Masters to keep their vampires under control. To make matters worse, violent vampire raves are breaking out. As Merit investigates further, she discovers these raves are not just a blood party –but something or someone is causing vampires to turn aggressive. With both the mayor and the head of the council breathing down Ethan’s neck, everything around Cadogan and Chicago become very tense.

This review is really, really hard for me to write. I have said that in the past but I really mean it this time! I say that because something happens at the end – the very, very end that is big. Huge. Enormous. I read it, and then I rubbed my eyes, and read it again. And then I called a friend and said, what in the world just happened. Until this point I would give this book a solid B. I like the conflict with the rave parties and the political pressure Ethan has to put up with brings nice tension to the story. Being a romance fan, I have been frustrated with Ethan and Merit’s relationship through all the books. They had a very “up” moment in book three, only to be down in love in this book. There is something fishy going on with Mallory. We get little hints throughout the book about her progress to becoming a sorceress and I think there is definitely more than meets the eye. I’m intrigued. But none the less, this is an enjoyable book.

Until the end. Honestly, I’m upset. I’m not happy. I am angry.

I feel like what happened does not fit this series at all. It feels out of place. I get that it will be resolved in a future book somehow, but even then I don’t know if I like it. Chloe Neill has stated to “trust her”.” I’m trying! But I am having a hard time coming up with a resolution that will make me happy. Hopefully something happens in Drink Deep that blows my mind and I will come back to this review and say – why was I so upset? I’ve read some reviews that love the ending – so I’m interested to read reviews as more read this book.

I actually don’t think I can rate this book. I gave it a three on Goodreads just to give it something. I almost can’t rate this book, until I read Drink Deep out this fall. Once I get my question answered, I can come back and rate this one. Because my rating depends on one very, very big thing. And I’m scared of what the answer will be.(less)

17 likes · like · see review

May 11, 2011 Laura Lulu rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, vampires

WTF?!?!?!? I knew there was going to be craziness at the end of this book, but truly, I had no idea. Holy shit.

And that is my review. Because I don't even remember what happened in the first 300 or so pages, after that insane literary bitchslap. Wow.

4 likes · like · see review

May 24, 2011 Lisa P. rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

This was Chloe's best book ever.

Please check out my review on Paperback Dolls: http://networkedblogs.com/gOtM6

3 likes · like · see review

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About Chloe Neill

Chloe Neill was born and raised in the South, but now makes her home in the Midwest—just close enough to Cadogan House and St. Sophia's to keep an eye on things. When not transcribing Merit’s and Lily’s adventures, she bakes, works, and scours the Internet for good recipes and great graphic design. Chloe also maintains her sanity by spending time with her boys—her husband (also her favorite landsc...more

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Books by Chloe Neill

Some Girls Bite (Chicagoland Vampires, #1)

Friday Night Bites (Chicagoland Vampires, #2)

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Quotes from Hard Bitten

“You can run. You can keep running to the ends of the earth. But I won’t be far behind you.”

“Ethan—”

“No. I will never be far behind you.” He tipped up my chin so that I could do nothing else but look back into his eyes. “Do the things you need to do. Learn to be a vampire, to be a warrior, to be the soldier you are capable of being. But consider the possibility that I made a mistake I regret—and that I’ll continue to regret that mistake and try to convince you to give me another chance until the earth stops turning.” — 226 people liked it

“Be stubborn if you wish to, if you need to, but we know how this will end.” — 94 people liked it

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Hard Bitten (Chicagoland Vampires #4)

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