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The Black Dagger Brotherhood (Black Dagger Brotherhood Compendium )

4.26 of 5 stars 4.26 · rating details · 15,343 ratings · 697 reviews

New York Times bestselling author J.R. Ward delivers a behind-the-scenes look at her "to die for"( Publishers Weekly) Black Dagger Brotherhood series-and a brand-new short story starring Zsadist and Bella. This is a book no Black Dagger Brotherhood fan should miss-an insider's guide that will seduce readers as powerfully as the sexy band of Brothers and the world they live...more

ebook, 496 pages

Published October 7th 2008 by New American Library

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Oct 04, 2008 Auntee rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: fans of the BDB series

Shelves: paranormal-romance

I'll start by stating the obvious--this book is a must-have for all BDB fans. It is filled with so much fun "stuff" and will keep you occupied and entertained while you await the May '09 release of the latest in the BDB saga, "Lover Avenged".

Chief among the goodies is a short story about Zsadist, Bella, and baby daughter Nalla, called "Father Mine". In it, we see Z and Bella having marital problems, coping with being new parents and all the adjustments that entails, and watch Z struggle to bond...more I'll start by stating the obvious--this book is a must-have for all BDB fans. It is filled with so much fun "stuff" and will keep you occupied and entertained while you await the May '09 release of the latest in the BDB saga, "Lover Avenged".

Chief among the goodies is a short story about Zsadist, Bella, and baby daughter Nalla, called "Father Mine". In it, we see Z and Bella having marital problems, coping with being new parents and all the adjustments that entails, and watch Z struggle to bond with the baby he adores, yet is afraid to love. We see how Z finally is forced to face and deal with his past in order that he may finally have a happy future.

I loved this glimpse into Z and Bella's life, even though it was sad to see how Z still struggled with his horrific past. ****spoiler ahead****The fact that Bella considered leaving Z because he refused to have anything to do with baby Nalla had me panicking for a minute, because I knew Z wouldn't be able to go on without Bella in his life.******* I was very glad when Z finally faced his fears, and was surprised by the person he was able to open up to and get help from.

This was a very satisfying, sometimes sad, but ultimately happy read (and with some really hot moments too), and it convinced me that Zsadist, Bella and Nalla would be a very happy family in the future.

I also loved the 'dossiers' on the Brothers. There were lots of fun factoids revealed as the Brothers filled out questionnaires from the author. Some of the questions asked were: Height and Weight? (these guys are huge!); What's in your closet?; Sexiest part of a female?; Last book read?; Favorite TV show?; Boxers or briefs?; Last time you cried? Most romantic thing you've ever done? All fun stuff, and the Brother's different personalities are revealed by their answers.

Maybe my favorite part of the whole book is a look into how JR Ward felt while crafting the whole BDB series. We see how she came up with the whole idea, read the original BDB book proposal, and hear her thoughts about each of the characters. We find out who her favorite is, who makes her blush, who she thinks is "monster hot", which book she's most proud of, which character she doesn't quite get along with, and which book gave her the most trouble. She also confesses about the one book she wishes she could make changes to.

I loved getting a peek into the mind of JR Ward, and reading this autobiographical part of the book was riveting. It's fascinating reading, and shows just how much work and absolute dedication it takes to be a successful writer.

This book is filled with tons of other fun stuff, and I'm sure there is something for everyone here. There's some 'slices of life' segments that were originally posted on her message board. If you're like me and find her message board somewhat hard to navigate and not exactly easy on the eyesight, you'll appreciate these scenes of everyday life in the Brotherhood reprinted here. There's also some deleted scenes included from some of the books, advice for writers, a Q & A section, the Brothers interviewing JR, a touching interview with Tohr and Wellsie, and finally an excerpt from the upcoming "Lover Avenged".

If you're a fan of the BDB, you don't want to miss this book. I found it loads of fun, and it provided many hours of fascinating reading. The only bad part is that it will make you impatient to read the next installment of the BDB series! Love those Brothers! Enjoy!(less)

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Oct 29, 2008 Julie (jjmachshev) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2008-reads

WOW! I'm just not sure what else to say about "The Black Dagger Brotherhood: An Insider's Guide" by J.R. Ward. For those who have gotten caught up in this series, it's an absolute 'must buy' for your keeper shelf!

Ward has included, among other things: a shiny, new short story about baby Nalla; the original proposal for Dark Lover which started the whole series; some deleted scenes (different from the ones originally available on her website); some of her favorite quotes from each book; a teaser...more

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Jun 20, 2011 Buggy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: shelf-09, top, paranormal-rom, vampalicious, scars-r-sexy, tattooed-hero

~AN ABSOLUTE MUST-HAVE FOR BDB FANS~
This is essential reading for BDB fans. Zsadist and Bella's 81 page short story alone is worth the price of admission. Huge insight is given into each book in the series and the Brotherhoods world, as well as a ton of other information. JR interviews each of the Brothers getting them to fill in a question/answer sheet with hilarious results, giving us a greater understanding of their characters. I actually came away from this feeling like the Brothers were rea...more

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Mar 22, 2011 Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: All Diehard BDB fans!!

Shelves: pnr, tortured-bad-boys, vampires, warriors, books-i-own, author-j-r-ward, drinks-on-me, my-hottie-harem, books-i-go-rabid-over, keep-a-spare-pair-of-knickers, favorites, read-in-2010, read-in-2011

I cannot believe how long I waited to get this book. If you're a member of J.R.'s official BDB forum, then you may be familiar with some of the pieces in this compilation, such as the Slices of Life pieces and the Brothers on the message boards. But even if you are, that doesn't mean you should skip out on this one. There is a ton of stuff to indulge in that will satisfy your hunger of the Brothers until the next book comes out.

One of my favourite parts of this book is the deleted scenes. Ward g...more I cannot believe how long I waited to get this book. If you're a member of J.R.'s official BDB forum, then you may be familiar with some of the pieces in this compilation, such as the Slices of Life pieces and the Brothers on the message boards. But even if you are, that doesn't mean you should skip out on this one. There is a ton of stuff to indulge in that will satisfy your hunger of the Brothers until the next book comes out.

One of my favourite parts of this book is the deleted scenes. Ward gives us a glimpse of scenes that have been removed or altered from its book form. I think my favourites one are the ones of Cormia and Phury. God, they are just perfect for one another aren't they? That scene made me blush and the one that takes place five years later is precious.

Another one of my favourites is the questionaire that the Brothers fill out. It's kind of interesting to see their answers and bash on one other (Rhage is king when it comes to that). Cracking open the spine of this book is like diving into the mansion and experiencing the macho frat boy atmosphere along with the Brothers. You feel it, you know?

What can I say? Father Mine tore me apart. It was so beautiful and elegantly written. I felt so humble that I could experience something so personal and so important between Z and Bella. Their interactions with Nalla are what brought on the tears. With Z's guilt pushed aside and Bella there to comfort him, Nalla now as the chance to love her father as she was meant to from the beginning. So, so touching.

Speaking of heartbreaking moments, another one is the interview with Tohr and Wellsie. My God, they are beautiful, aren't they? Their chemistry is as potent as ever and I am saddened to know the future outcome for them. Though that does not take away the validity of their love. They belong to one another. Forever. Period.

And what a cool thing to add: helpful tips for aspiring writers. Being one myself, I was totally and completely entranced by this section. To be honest, I want to be J.R., as stalker-ish as that sounds. It's the honest truth. So the fact that she is willing to share her tips and successes with fans is great.

Bottom Line? If you're dying for more Brothers, this one is a no-brainer.(less)

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Nov 04, 2008 L8blmr rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: You know!

I am CRAZY about these guys ... or else I'm just crazy! When I'm in the world of the BDB, I'm really IN it - do you know what I mean? I totally buy everything and everybody in each book, and when I finish one, I'm more than a little let down that I have to return to reality, true? Of course, Ward perpetuates these feelings, what with her "interviews", board postings, etc., further adding to the ease with which you can slip into believing these guys are living and loving in Caldwell, NY! Not many...more

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Oct 14, 2008 Kim rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

How can I not give five stars to Wrath fly fishing??

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Oct 10, 2008 Robin rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Here's the thing: there are people who read books, and there are people who are "readers." People who read enjoy books. Readers take that to an almost insane degree. They don't just read books, they immerse themselves in them. And, to the extent that they have a "favorite" book or author, they can get lost for days....or longer. Readers read favorites over and over (and over) again. It isn't so much about the words that are put on the page, although those can be very good. It is more about how y...more

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Jun 09, 2011 Lisa Lap rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, fiction, paranormal, paranormalromance, booksireadoverandover

I read this book in virtually one day as it was filled with a new short story with Bella and Z that helped a LOT with where things were left off with them, lots of juicy details regarding all the brothers, lots of information I already knew and just a bigger glimpse into the world JR Ward has created with the brothers.

I liked the new interviews with the brothers as it provided them with even more depth if you read the first interviews on her website and compared them to the interviews in this bo...more

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Apr 10, 2009 Janelle Dazzlepants rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires, urban-fantasy

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Ahh this was an AMAZING addition to the series, and really is a must-have for all Black Dagger Brotherhood fans. Getting Ward's perspective on things really changed my opinions of some of the books I wasn't so much a fan of, and some of the characters (like Mary) who I really despised.

The excerpts of the Brothers winding each other up on the boards were HILARIOUS, and I love Rhage so so so much :D I was honestly cackling to myself while reading the exchanges between the Brothers when they were...more Ahh this was an AMAZING addition to the series, and really is a must-have for all Black Dagger Brotherhood fans. Getting Ward's perspective on things really changed my opinions of some of the books I wasn't so much a fan of, and some of the characters (like Mary) who I really despised.

The excerpts of the Brothers winding each other up on the boards were HILARIOUS, and I love Rhage so so so much :D I was honestly cackling to myself while reading the exchanges between the Brothers when they were teasing each other about the sappy things they did for Valentines Day, and Rhage paying Vishous out about 'Knitters Anonymous' was pretty much the funniest thing ever. I wish there had been more of Rhage's humour in Lover Eternal, and less lovesick puppy-ness. :D

I fucking love all the information we got about Lassiter, because he's been really playing on my mind and I cant wait to hear more about him. I loved the deleted scene between Phury and Cormia, and personally liked it better than that aggressive almost-rape between them in Lover Enshrined. During that book I didn't like their lack of chemistry and just wanted them to get it on already, and I wish that scene had been in the book :(

The short story, Father Mine, about Z coming to terms with fatherhood upset me so much, but it was so amazing and beautiful to read. I was honestly bawling my eyes out and sobbing like a bitch, and I can't believe I've gotten so attached to these characters and pulled so far into the Black Dagger Brotherhood 'verse :D although I guess that's a testament to Ward's writing skills.

I loved the little vignette about Wrath dealing with his ascension as King, and all the work he's forced into doing, and his itching to get out onto the field. I never really thought about him being dissident about his new job, despite how often it's mentioned that he always looks like he has a headache these days. I think we definitely need to hear more from Beth in the future, I miss hearing from her character.

*cries* ugh that non-interview with Tohrment before Wellsie's death and the whole scenario with him at Phury and Cormia's mating ceremony upset me too :( As much as I want him to snap out of it and move on, I know he won't, and I kind of want to explore his struggles in future books.

Another thing I loved about this inside guide to the Brotherhood is the explanation about how the Scribe Virgin created John Matthew and placed him in the bathroom stall in the 80s, after Darius' death. Even though there was mention of how the Omega transcended time and birthed Lash to counter the Dhestroyer prophecy, I was still confused about John Matthew was born, because Darius was still alive at that time. I'm still very confused, but now i know about the Scribe Virgin's intervention :D

I fucking LOVED this book, and I can't wait for Lover Avenged. (less)

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Apr 03, 2009 Beth F. rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, vampires, 2009, tnbbc-spring-2009

Utterly ridiculous. And fan-freakin-tastic, ha!

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Jan 16, 2012 Tina (Martina ♥ Bookaholic) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, adult, also-for-men, book-ebook, read-in-german

English Review:
I am a fan of Ward since the first book and therefore I’ve been looking forward to this book for a long time, to get also a look ‘behind the scenes‘ and to get to know more about the world of the Black Daggers. However, the whole book is hard to be rated or reviewed because every chapter or every part in it shows something different, where I’ve liked some passages exceptionally much, but others less.

At the beginning we get presented the story of Zsadist and Bella, and how they h...more

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Jan 07, 2011 Rachel (The Rest Is Still Unwritten) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-book, i-own, favorites

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

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Dec 04, 2008 Espe rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book has a whole heck of a lot of insider information. If you aren't familiar with the JR Ward message boards, the Brothers "visit" the boards every now and again and interact with eachother and the members. In this guide, JR Ward puts in chapters of Brother interactions, hilarious quotes from the books (mostly courtesy of Rhage), has individual interviews with each Brother, a history of sorts in writing each book. But, by far my favorite parts of this book were the novella of Zdadist, Bell...more

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Oct 10, 2008 Rachel rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

It is rare that I find such an amazing author. Even in this "non-fiction" guide to her books the Warden is able to take you into her world and keep you enthralled.

I was amazed as this book weaved through both fiction and non-fiction with out missing a beat. I look forward to the next book in the spring.

**These books are definitely full of adult themes, language, and material. I would not recommend them to those that are uncomfortable with the sometimes explicit nature of the romance genre in ge...more

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Feb 27, 2009 Mitabird rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance

This review is just for the short story, Father Mine, as I did not read the whole thing. JR Ward is one of my favorite authors. Over the last couple of years, I've discovered that I prefer character driven stories and I think JR Ward is one of the best in that aspect. Her characters are beautifully written and have so much depth that I just get sucked into the story. Zsadist has always been my favorite and reading his struggles concerning Nalla and Bella was heartbreaking. It was so uplifting to...more

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Nov 20, 2012 Anna (Bananas!) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: any serious BDB fan, of course

Yeah, not finished yet but I've read most of it. Just sick of seeing it on my currently reading.
IT IS AWESOME THOUGH! The Brother interview alone is worth the price of admission. For some stupid reason I have yet to read Z's novella. Oh wait, maybe it's my baby dread holding me back...

Also, I loooove everything with Lassiter. He is so damn funny and I want to meet his sister already. Can we have his book next???
I enjoyed the bits with Phury. We don't get enough of that male.

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Nov 05, 2012 Squallogal rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

If your a fan of the series then you must read this. There is an intimate look at the brotherhood. Deleted scenes are amazing but for me, as someone beginning to write for the first time, I have found the honesty about writing incredibly helpful.

This is a great writers resource. I don't write the same way J R Ward does but the truths about writing are still the same.

"Listen to your Rice Krispies" is my new go to tool. I cried as I read the one interaction between the author and V. You see V do...more

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Aug 03, 2012 Darknessa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: BDB series fans

Shelves: series-black-dagger-brotherhod, the-2012-books-challenge, supernatural

I really really loved this! not everyday do we get an inside look at the brain of a wonderful writer such as Warden. I didn't think I could like the series more, but the way her brain functions is so intelligent it makes look back at all the previous books with awe. She's indeed brilliant on so many levels! Her determination in dealing with struggle of establishing the very bases of this wonderful world is just beyond admirable. I like how she's is so transparent and generous with the fans.

Her...more

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Jul 20, 2012 Rachel Whitley rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, books-i-recommend, paranormal, vampires, 5-stars

I loved every part of this behind-the-scenes look at my new favorite series. But i think my favorites were the brothers' dossiers, the "deleted scenes" section, and of course the novella with Zsadist and Bella.

It's hard to explain why I'm so captivated by six bad-ass vampires who manage to combine the characteristics of a college guy, a Navy Seal, and a 1950s-style brooding juvenile delinquent all into one, (or six to be exact) personalities. But i am well and truly hooked, and if you do any of...more

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Jun 12, 2012 Petit-lips rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

http://lectures-petit-lips.blogspot.f...

- J'ai lu ce guide parce que j'avais très envie de lire la nouvelle sur Zadiste et Bella. Je me suis dit que c'était également l'occasion d'en savoir un peu plus sur la saga.

- J'ai beaucoup aimé la nouvelle sur Zadiste et Bella, d'autant plus que L'amant furieux, qui leur est consacré, est mon tome préféré.

- J.R. Ward nous offre une biographie, un questionnaire personnel et une interview pour chacun des personnages jusqu'ici rencontrés dans les 6 premiers...more

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May 10, 2012 Amanda rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: authors-j-r-ward, fiction, mystery-suspense, read-in-2012, romance, vampire-books

I LOVED this book. I really hope she does it again after the next six books. It was great to get the insight and meaning behind the characters and the world J.R. Ward created. I also loved discovering things I never knew, like which Brother is her favorite and the lighter side of her writing process. How these characters are so real and actually live in her head she can have full conversations with them and create a whole extended universe for them, like the message boards. And how the character...more

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Mar 07, 2012 KatiD rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: rntv-reviews

Reviewed by Kati Dancy
4.75 stars

I think that JR Ward must be a genius. I say that with a mixture of dismay and total admiration. You see, with her last book, Lover Enshrined, I’d given up on the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. For a variety of reasons that really aren’t important, except to say that I felt that she’d moved away from romance and into a confusing urban fantasy series that wasn’t much to my taste. All of that has changed with the publication of this book, which Ward refers to as t...more Reviewed by Kati Dancy
4.75 stars

I think that JR Ward must be a genius. I say that with a mixture of dismay and total admiration. You see, with her last book, Lover Enshrined, I’d given up on the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. For a variety of reasons that really aren’t important, except to say that I felt that she’d moved away from romance and into a confusing urban fantasy series that wasn’t much to my taste. All of that has changed with the publication of this book, which Ward refers to as the “Compendium”, as will I.

The Compendium includes a variety of impressive tidbits about not just about the Brotherhood, but also about Ward’s writing process. Ward herself has a very strong voice, which anyone who has read her books knows. She writes very much like she talks, I think. And this book is almost anecdotal in its nature. But it kicks off with what I can only describe as a heart wrenching short story about Z and Bella, set just after the birth of their daughter, Nalla. Everything about the story exemplifies Ward’s excellence at crafting romance. Her complete handle on how to build emotion between characters and her ability to reintroduce us to two beloved characters and make their struggles seem so real and painful. The polish and style of this story is why I started reading Ward. The emotion she wrenches from the reader is both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. For those who love Zsadist best among the brothers, this story is an absolute gift. And it makes you fall even more deeply for him.

The Compendium also boasts wonderful tidbits about the Brotherhood, catching us up with each of the brothers in “current time.” It shows them happy and adjusted and in many cases addresses many of the questions or concerns that I as a reader had. It has interesting and fun “interviews” with each of the brothers, which really expand upon their personalities and shows us how they’re doing. The book closes with an absolutely heartbreaking last interview with Tohr and Wellsie. The book is amazingly well constructed and designed to satisfy readers both new to the series and those of us who are veterans. I would call it a must read for fans of the series and those who wish to know more about Ward’s writing and marketing process. For me, it served to draw me back into a series that I’d given up on. I now join the throngs anxiously awaiting Rhevenge’s book, Lover Avenged.(less)

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May 20, 2011 Cyndy Aleo rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires

When I was finally done with J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood (BDB) series, I felt a sense of accomplishment for making it through all of them, even the bad ones. Then, however, another friend informed me of The Black Dagger Brotherhood: An Insider's Guide. Never one to read hokey "companion" books, I thought nothing of it until I was told it contained a novella about Zsadist and Bella involving the birth of their child. Naturally, I had to borrow it, just to make sure I'd read everything, r...more

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view all 5 comments

Meli Actually she has posted lots of things for fans to read for free: deleted scenes, interviews, random scenes, etc. And if we are comparing her to Meyer...more
Dec 22, 2011 09:46am

Cyndy Aleo Fiction isn't posted online, no, but I've had pieces published by Business Week, the New York Times, Reuters, GigaOM, and several other publications,...more
Dec 22, 2011 10:02am

Mar 28, 2011 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: black-dagger-brotherhood, pararnormal-romance

I have to tell you, I never buy guides to books. They always feel like a combination of rehash and filler. And to be honest, I didn't buy this one either. (A friend lent it to me.) But I did buy the ebook version of the "Father Mine" novella. Had it not been available, I would have bought the whole thing in a heartbeat. And it would have been worth it.

"Father Mine" is the story of how Zsadist becomes a father to his daughter. Yes, we saw how Nalla was conceived back in Lover Awakened. But the no...more I have to tell you, I never buy guides to books. They always feel like a combination of rehash and filler. And to be honest, I didn't buy this one either. (A friend lent it to me.) But I did buy the ebook version of the "Father Mine" novella. Had it not been available, I would have bought the whole thing in a heartbeat. And it would have been worth it.

"Father Mine" is the story of how Zsadist becomes a father to his daughter. Yes, we saw how Nalla was conceived back in Lover Awakened. But the novella picks up shortly after her birth and shows the trouble Z is having in bonding with her. He's having nightmares that tie her in to his years of torture. He feels unworthy of her. And as a result, he doesn't touch her; doesn't even look at her; and it's driving him and Bella apart.

This is a great story. Granted, I'd probably enjoy a story about Z & Bella having a dry-cleaning crisis. But in just 84 pages, Ward recaptures the heartbreak of Z's past and the deep passion and devotion he has for his mate. It is wrenching, sweet, and of course, sexy. The short story alone would get 5 stars.

The rest of the guide consists of odds and ends designed to give you a closer look at the previous books and characters. There are mock interviews between the author and characters. (Kind of contrived for me.) But there was also a book by book breakdown, where Ward talks about her process and thoughts on each novel. That, I did enjoy. She talked about what worked for her and what she was striving for. And she clarified a few finer points that I had some lingering confusion on: like the Butch & V relationship as well has how John Matthew managed to become the reincarnation of Darius. (That one always confused me a little because of the timeline.)

Hmm. What else? Some deleted scenes (including an earlier version of the break-up sex scene between Z & Bella that was better than the one that was published.) Some tips for aspiring authors; Ward's initial proposal to her publisher about the series; Some silly internet postings from the perspectives of the characters; And a Q&A with the author. Meh. Other than the scene I mentioned above, none of that really did much for me.

So, when all is said and done, I still don't plan to go out and buy this book, but only because I own the novella. If you haven't read "Father Mine," go out and get it now! The rest mostly feels like extras from the author's website.

4 stars. (less)

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Jan 11, 2011 Crystal rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011

Yes I am officially obsessed what can I say. I picked this up thinking that it might be just okay but I actually thoroughly enjoyed it. Every new book if the series consists of one main male character and one main female character so you really don't get to see too much of the other brothers and oh how I have missed them. This guide gives you a little look into their everyday lives and some background information. It was a little weird though. Ward being the one interviewing her own characters a...more

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Nov 30, 2010 Laura rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. After reading all six of the previous BDB books, I was anxious to get my hands on the Insider's Guide as soon as possible.
Unbeknownst to me, apparently I live under a rock, there's a fabulous novella in the first 80 or so pages about Zsadist and Bella. I for one was thrilled about this and after reading Lover Enshrined was left wanting to know more about the birth of Nalla and how Z and Bella did at being new parents.
I was not disappointed in reading this. There are some really touching moments...more After reading all six of the previous BDB books, I was anxious to get my hands on the Insider's Guide as soon as possible.
Unbeknownst to me, apparently I live under a rock, there's a fabulous novella in the first 80 or so pages about Zsadist and Bella. I for one was thrilled about this and after reading Lover Enshrined was left wanting to know more about the birth of Nalla and how Z and Bella did at being new parents.
I was not disappointed in reading this. There are some really touching moments in this story, and there are also some smoking hot ones too!
After having two children of my own, I immediately identified with Bella and her feelings of not being sexy or attractive to her man anymore. Not only has her body changed, but as all mothers know, her hormones and sleep patterns are all over the place. But thanks to the WARDen's multiple point of view story telling, you get to see that Z is all about his woman and doesn't know how to reach out to her. :( I love how you see them struggle as new parents and how to take care of a new baby. Bella has a hard time letting go, even when it only means moving her baby into the "room" next door. When she does finally make that move and affirms to Z that their bedroom is "their" space, YOWZA!!! Whoa I was seriously fanning myself it was so hot.
Also worth mentioning is the fact the Z tries to get his slave bands removed, unsuccesfully. I love how he wants to be as "clean" as possible for his shellan and his daughter, but what I love more is that Bella tells him that Nalla will love them because they're a part of him and even more tender moments.
After reading the novella, the insider's guide is really good also. I loved reading about the Brothers and their interviews with the WARDen. Reading the deleted scenes from some of the books was great too and let me just say, this woman could seriously write erotica.
Favorite part of the book was reading the interaction on the message boards between the brothers. Flat out hilarious and showcased more of that great banter between the brothers.
I would highly recommend this book for any BDB fan, worthy of five big stars!!(less)

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Oct 06, 2010 Vicki rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: library-books, part-of-a-series, trashy-romance, vampires-weres-monstery-types

Well, okay, I liked the Bella / Z short. But other than that, all of this should just be on her website.* I couldn't even bring myself to read the "interviews" -- just too self-indulgent and cheesy. The part where she explains what it was like to write each book is better, but again, not really necessary to publish a book about it. I'm not going to finish it all, and I'm never going to buy it, but if you like the rest of the series it might be worth borrowing for the 80 page short alone. Next.

*W...more

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Jan 16, 2010 Donna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm a big fan of JR Ward books... I've found them all fascinating especially the Black Dagger Brotherhood series... Ive read all the Seven books... Not in order though my first read ever is Vishous books Lover Unbound and then I've fallen head over heals in love so I've got all the & series from Dark Lover (head over heels in love with My lord and King Wrath and my Queen Beth) , Lover Eternal (oh my beloved Rhage and sweet Mary) , Lover Awakened (my gorgeous and soulful Zsadist and beautiful...more

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Jun 15, 2009 Barbara rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: vampires-werewolves-oh-my

This is a great addition to the Black Dagger Brotherhood series but do not read it until you have read the first 6 books of the series. Trust me….you don’t want to spoil any of the actual books.

This book provides “behind the pages” look at the Brotherhood. It includes interviews with each Brother including Wrath, deleted scenes, direction on where the series will be going next and J.R. Ward breaks down each of the 6 books to explain the who, what, where, how and why of each of the stories and wh...more

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

Shelves: favorites

If you've read the first six books of the Black Dagger Brotherhood (and why wouldn't you?) and you are a fan, then you have to get this book. Simple as that, really.

It contains a short stories, biographies of the brothers, deleted scenes and extracts from the boards.

The guide starts with a short story called Father Mine which is a touching story of how Zsadist comes to terms with his issues and finally becomes a father to Nalla, his daughter. It's easy to see why Zsadist is the favourite brother...more If you've read the first six books of the Black Dagger Brotherhood (and why wouldn't you?) and you are a fan, then you have to get this book. Simple as that, really.

It contains a short stories, biographies of the brothers, deleted scenes and extracts from the boards.

The guide starts with a short story called Father Mine which is a touching story of how Zsadist comes to terms with his issues and finally becomes a father to Nalla, his daughter. It's easy to see why Zsadist is the favourite brother of a lot of reader. Butch is still mine, but it's a close call!

That's followed by the biography section where the vital statistics of each brother is given as though they had completed a questionairre followed by a section from J.R. Ward on what it was like to write each book. This is laugh out loud funny when Rhage gets involved.

There aren't that many deleted scenes for reasons explained by J.R Ward but there is a peach of one that came from Lover Enshrined. Whilst it was probably not essential to the book, I would have loved to have seen it in there. I'm glad I got to read it in here, though. Yeah, I'm a sucker for sappy stuff. What of it?

The extracts from the boards are very intriguing. It's a though the brothers were posting themselves and some of them are downright hilarious whilst others fill out more of the story between the brothers and Lassiter.

Slices of Life are just that. They are slices out of the lives of the brothers such as what happens during a movie night. It also includes a meloncholic one with Tohrment and Wellsie.

There's also a short section where the brothers interview J.R. Ward which is very interesting in how she portrays them not as characters to do with as she sees fit but as people inside her head whom she has no control over. As someone who writes (very occasionally!) for a hobby, I totally get that. Glad to see that I'm not the only one.

Finally, there is the old language's alphabet and explanations on the acronyms used through out the books.

I thoroughly enjoyed this as it was a behind the scenes view on the books, much like you get with films. It's not necessary to read this anymore than it's necessary to what the extras to a film, but it will enhance the enjoyment of the story even more, I think.

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About J.R. Ward

J.R. Ward is a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author of erotic paranormal romance. She lives in the south with her incredibly supportive husband and her beloved golden retriever. After graduating from law school, she began working in healthcare in Boston and spent many years as Chief of Staff of one of the premier academic medical centers in the nation. Writing has always been her passi...more

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Books by J.R. Ward

Dark Lover (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #1)

Lover Awakened (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #3)

Lover Eternal (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #2)

Lover Unbound (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #5)

Lover Revealed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #4)

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Trivia About The Black Dagger ...

6 trivia questions

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Quotes from The Black Dagger Broth...

“-BDB on the board-
Knitter's Anonimous
May 8, 2006
Rhage (in his bedroom posting in V's room on the board)
Hi, my name is V.
("Hi, V")
I've been knitting for 125 years now.
(*gasping noises*)
It's begun to impact my personal relationships: my brothers think I'm a nancy. It's begun to affect my health: I'm getting a callus on my forefinger and I find bits of yarn in all my pockets and I'm starting to smell like wool. I can't concentrate at work: I keep picturing all these lessers in Irish sweaters and thick socks.
(*sounds of sympathy*)
I've come seeking a community of people who, like me, are trying not to knit.
Can you help me?
(*We're with you*)
Thank you (*takes out hand-knitted hankie in pink*)
(*sniffles*)
("We embrace you, V")

Vishous (in the pit): Oh hell no...you did not just put that up. And nice spelling in the title. Man...you just have to roll up on me, don't you. I got four words for you, my brother.

Rhage: Four words? Okay...lemme see... Rhage, you're so sexy.
hmmm....
Rhage, you're SO smart. No wait! Rhage, you're SO right! That's it, isn't it...g'head. You can tell me.

Vishous: First one starts with a "P"
Use your head for the other three.
Bastard.

Rhage: P? Hmm... Please pass the yarn

Vishous: Payback is a bitch!

Rhage: Ohhhhhhhhhhhh
I'm so scuuuuuurred.
Can you whip me up a blanket to hide under?” — 333 people liked it

“Okay. Right. Horror meets romance meets erotica meets fantasy meets hip hop. Throw in some leather and some Miami Ink shit, stir with a baseball bat and a tire iron, sprinkle on some baby powder, and serve over a hot bed of Holy-Mary-mother-of-God-this-has-to-work-or-I'm-going-to-be-a-lawyer-for-the-rest-of-my-natural-life.
No problem."
(J.R. Ward on the elements of writing the Black Dagger Brotherhood)” — 158 people liked it

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The Black Dagger Brotherhood (Black Dagger Brotherhood Compendium )

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