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Twice Bitten (Chicagoland Vampires #3)

by Chloe Neill (Goodreads Author)

4.29 of 5 stars 4.29 · rating details · 18,744 ratings · 967 reviews

Shapeshifters from across the country are convening in the Windy City, and as a gesture of peace, Master Vampire Ethan Sullivan has offered their leader a very special bodyguard: Merit, Chicago's newest vampire. Merit is supposed to protect the Alpha, Gabriel Keene-and to spy for the vamps while she's at it. Oh, and luckily Ethan's offering some steamy, one-on-one combat t...more

Paperback, 355 pages

Published July 6th 2010 by NAL Trade

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Apr 06, 2011 Catherine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, fantasy-paranormal-sci-fi, magic-mystical-ability, series, vampire, were-shifter, read-2010, excellent, read-2011

*Originally read 7/6/10 - 7/7/10*

I don't exactly know how to review this book. I have such a polarized reaction about it. I loved it, but it absolutely pissed me off. When I got to the end and saw that I'd be left hanging like that, I was absolutely infuriated! I think that if the 4th book was out right now, what happened in the book (and the ending) wouldn't have hit me quite as hard. But it's not out! I closed the book knowing that I'd have to wait a year to read the next one. Noooooooo!

In the...more *Originally read 7/6/10 - 7/7/10*

I don't exactly know how to review this book. I have such a polarized reaction about it. I loved it, but it absolutely pissed me off. When I got to the end and saw that I'd be left hanging like that, I was absolutely infuriated! I think that if the 4th book was out right now, what happened in the book (and the ending) wouldn't have hit me quite as hard. But it's not out! I closed the book knowing that I'd have to wait a year to read the next one. Noooooooo!

In the beginning of this book Merit and Ethan are still dancing around each other. They seem to be having an easier time not getting on each others nerves, but you can still feel the tension. Merit and Mallory are still not back to best friends. Too much happened in the last book for them to bounce back easily. Ethan once again involves Merit in what she terms "shenanigans." This time they're going to be involved with the shifters.

I loved getting to know the shifters. We got to see a lot more of Jeff too. He's so fun. I love the friendship and banter he and Merit have going on. Gabriel, the Alpha was very interesting. I'm very curious about the remark he made to Merit about being close to family. The way shifters and magic are portrayed in this series is very interesting. I'm interested in seeing what the future holds for the shifters.

I liked the progression of Mallory and Merit's relationship. Because they came into the series as best friends we never got to see them build their relationship. I liked watching them try to make it work even though they both have changed so drastically.

Now, the part that pissed me off... It was Ethan and Merit's relationship progress. Everything seemed like it was going well, and then it got great! But then it went in reverse. I thought this would be the book where Ethan and Merit finally got together. I love their slow building tension, but I want them to be together too. I want some resolution!

I thought maybe things would be salvaged before the end, but it wasn't. It ended on a hopeful note, with a really sweet gesture from Ethan, but nothing was settled. I ended the book horrified that I would have to wait a whole year to see what happens!

Even thought I wasn't pleased with what happened to them, I still liked the fact that we got to know Ethan so much better. I could totally see his side of things, but I could see Merit's side too. The fact that he made that decision, even though Merit warned him of the consequences...I know that had to hurt. I really liked that she was so mature about it. She wasn't the one constantly trying to talk it to death. But I want her and Ethan to be together! How can you resist a man that touches you and tells you he is undone? Sexy, but so romantic too.

I loved the book, but I just want more. I think I'll be first in line next year when the next book is released.
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Jul 09, 2010 Melinda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2010

Perfection! There's not much more I can say, just get a copy and read! Actually, get all three books, they really need to be read in order. :)

If anyone from marketing takes a look at goodreads...I want the original Merit back on the cover for book 4!!!

20 likes · like · see review

Apr 29, 2011 Cat Russell (Addicted2Heroines) rated it 4 of 5 stars

I'm glad Ethan was such a jerk. Merit is entirely too kick-ass for him. I hope Neill sets up a new love interest for her in the next story and Ethan is out of his mind with jealousy. Take that Darth Sullivan!

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Jul 14, 2011 Juliana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-romance, pnr-magic-supernatural, pnr-urban-fantasy, pnr-vampires, pnr-shapeshifters, library-book, challenge-2011-wllk-all-things-smmr, 4-half-stars, 2011-reads, 2011-jul-reads, 4-to-5-stars, 0-wishlist-buy-in-dead-tree-form, best-romance-heroes-ever, pnr-sizzling-chemistry, part-of-a-romance-series, 0-reviewed, best-romance-books, 2011-reads-my-favorites-of-the-year, all-time-best-romance-heroes-ever, challenge-2011-bb-the-50-states

4.5 stars
This is definitely my favorite of the series so far!! I absolutely loved it - loved it, loved it, loved it! Cannot wait to read the next one, which is apparently drama-ridden and has created such chaos among readers. For anyone who hasn't started the series, while this is the best book so far, these are definitely not stand-alones and should be read in order.

{ Merit, Whom I For Once Did Not Want to Kill }
I was finally able to actually enjoy Merit, instead of constantly wishing someone w...more

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Jul 06, 2010 Jacqueline rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mystery-suspense, fantasy-paranormal, for-review, read-in-2010, favorites

After reading Some Girls Bite and it's follow-up Friday Night Bites , I've come to adore Chloe Neill's new urban fantasy series. Not only does Twice Bitten continue the Chicagoland Vampires series's winning streak, it ups the ante.

Picking up directly where the second book left off, it's two months after Merit made the change from human to vampire and became the Sentinel of her new house, Cadogan. Although she still struggles - with lust as well as the fighting - during her physical training ses...more After reading Some Girls Bite and it's follow-up Friday Night Bites , I've come to adore Chloe Neill's new urban fantasy series. Not only does Twice Bitten continue the Chicagoland Vampires series's winning streak, it ups the ante.

Picking up directly where the second book left off, it's two months after Merit made the change from human to vampire and became the Sentinel of her new house, Cadogan. Although she still struggles - with lust as well as the fighting - during her physical training sessions with House Master Ethan Sullivan, we she her beginning to come into her own. Merit's learning to balance her duties, adjusting to her new life and forming solid relationships with her fellow novitiate (initiated) vampires. She's put her angst over her new-found vampirism aside and seems to be accepting her lot. Her growing level of comfort and her increasing loyalty to her house makes her even more likable - not only for us readers, but also for those novitiates other than her guard co-workers with whom her relations were formerly distant. Despite all of this, Merit still harbors some doubts - doubts that lead to a huge decision that she faces in this installment.

Neill does a great job of showing growth in Merit here. Her overall development as a character lends a dose of realism to this paranormal tale, particularly when it comes to her efforts at learning to fight. Urban fantasy series often provide us with heroines that come ready-made to kick ass. It's refreshing to see a heroine make the transition from normal post-grad student to vampire protector. Seeing her succeed is all the more of a reward because of this. In addition, we also witness a wealth of personal growth within Merit. She's more open and honest with herself and others about her feelings, especially those pertaining to Ethan and her unresolved issues with her best friend, Mallory.

Ethan too shows some significant growth. It appears as if Merit has tempered his ego and helped him be more forthright emotionally. I came to like Ethan a lot more this time around. Neill managed to make him more sympathetic without straying to far from what we've known of him as a character. I didn't always agree with his decisions or behavior in this book, but I gained a great deal more respect for him. The sexual tension that has simmered between him and Merit since the start jumps off the charts here. Neill takes their relationship in a new direction and I, for one, was surprised at where it went. It provides some lovely conflicts along the way too, and not just between Ethan and Merit. Their relationship issues inevitably spill over into business and are only compounded upon when certain new and returning characters are present in a scene...

Visit my blog, The Eclectic Book Lover, to continue reading this review.(less)

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Nov 11, 2011 Shannon C. rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: urban fantasy fans, vampire fans, shapeshifter fans

Shelves: action-adventure, humorous, magic-special-powers, shapeshifters, vampires, suspense-mystery

Twice Bitten picks up shortly where Friday Night Bites left off. We find out who was sending Merit those mysterious unsigned invitations (no, I won't hint because it'd be a major spoiler, but I will say it's a cool plotline!) The shifters are coming to town and Ethan tells Merit he needs her help in providing security for them during their convocation. His hope is to convince the shifters to stay and become allies. They believe war may be coming and need the shifters' support. Working as Sentine...more Twice Bitten picks up shortly where Friday Night Bites left off. We find out who was sending Merit those mysterious unsigned invitations (no, I won't hint because it'd be a major spoiler, but I will say it's a cool plotline!) The shifters are coming to town and Ethan tells Merit he needs her help in providing security for them during their convocation. His hope is to convince the shifters to stay and become allies. They believe war may be coming and need the shifters' support. Working as Sentinel for the Cadogan House, Merit continues her training--she's mastered her swordwork but struggling with sparring. The romantic tension between Merit and Ethan really heats up--but an old love of Ethan's shows up on the scene making us wonder what that will mean. Merit and Mallory are not talking following their disagreement, which of course is upsetting to both of them.

I love the heroine Merit--fiesty, smart, fun, honorable, loyal, hardworking. I enjoyed seeing her grow as a character over the course of the series. She starts as a grad student with a closely defined, much smaller world outlook. After she is converted, her world becomes much bigger and she grows to fit into it. I enjoyed seeing her strength in this book--she had many kick b*tt moments, as well as times she effectively showed her smarts. I hope this series continues for a long time to come. I want to see Merit eventually take the test to rise to Master Vampire, and see where life takes her after that. She is a very interesting character--one of the better new characters introduced in the genre recently (and I've read over 400 UF and PNR books!)

I also continue to enjoy the ancilliary characters, including many new ones. Jeff, one of my favorite side characters, has a potential love interest. I enjoyed how the author continues to build out the characters, like learning about how/when Ethan became a vampire, seeing more of his interactions with Merit, etc. I began to understand him better as a character, however I didn't agree with all of the decisions he made--some really annoyed me.

Something that I'd like to see improvement on is the tone of the relationships felt immature, like her referring to Ethan as a 'boy'. That irked me. I used to refer to guys I dated as 'boys' back in high school and maybe college. Ethan is most definitely a 'man'--he's 400 years old! And the conflict seemed contrived. His decision making (not elaborating b/c it's too big of a spoiler) seemed immature and not as well thought out as we normally see from him.

The world building continues to be one of the strengths of this series. The informative glimpses we got of vampire life in the first two books are continued in this one. And we also see more of how sorcery magic works, as well as an in-depth introduction to shapeshifters--how they are organized, their magic, their politics, etc. Also, I like how Chicago is so prominent as the setting. The touches of real-life Chicago add color and depth to the story.

If you are a fan of urban fantasy, I recommend the Chicagoland Vampires series. It reminds me of a cross between Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson series and Shelly Laurenston's Pride Stories (which is saying a lot since I love both series). Briggs in the way it's an urban fantasy with strong world building; an appealing leading gal as the main character; and good mix of action, mystery, suspense with a little romance. Laurenston in the snarky humor and terrific dialogue. A truly great mix of styles resulting in an original, entertaining series.

It's a lighter urban fantasy than some on the market, which I enjoy as a change of pace--mixing up the lighter reads in between the darker ones. It's nice to laugh out loud from time to time! If you haven't read the series, be sure to read the books in order:
1 - Some Girls Bite
2 - Friday Night Bites
3 - Twice Bitten

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Jun 14, 2011 Shannon rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviews

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Read #1
Started on June 4, 2011
Finished on June 13, 2011
2.5 stars

I just don't know what to think about this book. As usual, there were parts I enjoyed, but the bulk of the book had me knocking my head against a wall. Let's start with the biggie: SEX SCENE WITH ETHAN AND MERIT!

Let me say this: I get why Chloe decided to have Merit and Ethan get together only to have Ethan break it off immediately after. I was tired of seeing them dance around each other, and this was sort of a way to satiate that...more Read #1
Started on June 4, 2011
Finished on June 13, 2011
2.5 stars

I just don't know what to think about this book. As usual, there were parts I enjoyed, but the bulk of the book had me knocking my head against a wall. Let's start with the biggie: SEX SCENE WITH ETHAN AND MERIT!

Let me say this: I get why Chloe decided to have Merit and Ethan get together only to have Ethan break it off immediately after. I was tired of seeing them dance around each other, and this was sort of a way to satiate that need for action. I wasn't entirely sure Ethan was going to break up with her, but when they got together, it wasn't at all how I imagined. I thought Chloe did one thing right by keeping to Ethan's characterization. Even though he was close to sprouting sincere love sonnets to get Merit in bed with him, it's obvious Ethan still has a long way to go to finally realizing what he really needs in terms of love.

What drove me absolutely nuts was the way Merit handled the break-up.

Alright, give me the official book detective medal -- totally figured it was Adam. Although, I had actually forgotten that he was technically last in line to receive the "Apex crown," so when it was mentioned again later during the big ~*~unveiling of the master plan~*~, I kind of... didn't... get... why Chloe made him the killer. I mean, there were like five or more (I really couldn't keep all the brothers straight) other members of his family in line for the role of Alpha before him -- you'd think the rest of the pack would eventually get suspicious when the entire family has been killed off, but Adam isn't. Frankly, I guess I also just didn't see anyone being that motivated to want to take down most of their family just for a chance at the heading one of the packs. I mean, something like that would take a lot of meticulous planning, a lot of time. I could understand if he was closer to the front lines, but fifth or sixth? I didn't really see Adam as someone who was insane enough to do something like that. And then to use the same byline courtesy of Celina? Meh.

Personally, I think Chloe still has issues with resolving her endings. There's just something that never clicks for me. Don't even get me started on the whole "the text message was obviously sent by Gabriel because his name is on it!" scenario. Really? If you're going to WRITE someone's characterization as this completely brilliant strategist, then pull through with that idea. I just thought the entire ending was sloppy and way too convenient for convenience (I can't even bother to type out all of my grievances with the big reveal).(less)

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Jul 19, 2010 Lady Allison rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: vamps, shifters, chloe-neill, epub, love-love-love, my-manly-harem

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Even though I take serious issue with the cover of this book not looking a THING like Merit, the third installment of the Chicagoland Vampires was everything I wanted it to be & more!!! I fully intend to read it again as I couldn't read it slow enough the first time around because I was so excited.

In this book, Merit stands guard as Cadogan House Sentinel with Ethan as her Master. Together they are asked to provide security detail for an upcoming convocation of shifters who are meeting in C...more Even though I take serious issue with the cover of this book not looking a THING like Merit, the third installment of the Chicagoland Vampires was everything I wanted it to be & more!!! I fully intend to read it again as I couldn't read it slow enough the first time around because I was so excited.

In this book, Merit stands guard as Cadogan House Sentinel with Ethan as her Master. Together they are asked to provide security detail for an upcoming convocation of shifters who are meeting in Chicago to discuss whether or not to stay & join the fight or leave & go home to Alaska. Since there is a natural dislike between shifters & vampires since they didn't stand up last time they were in trouble (during the Second Clearing in Europe), there is understandably high tensions and the Apex, Gabriel, wants all the bases covered.

I was a little disappointed that Morgan didn't show up much at all, but that was very quickly rectified but how much Ethan grew in this book.

***SPOILERS, I CAN'T HELP MYSELF, DON'T READ IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE SERIES OR IF YOU INTEND TO!!!****

In the first two, he was so damn stubborn & arrogant but he really puts himself out there with Merit in this book. Neill can really write the sexual tension but I was SO grateful we didn't have to go through another book chock full of it & I was elated when they finally got together!!! But it was like Merit said, one step forward & two steps back. The line that killed me was, Was I supposed to appreciate the admission that he cared for me when he was drowning in regret about it? I loved how Neill took us on the emotional ride with them, Ethan struggling to find a balance of this surge of emotion for Merit & his responsibility for his House & Merit trying to distance herself when she thinks she's been replaced.

**********************************************************************************************************

I felt more connected to the characters & the stories in this book. Not to say I wasn't before, because Neill is a fabulous writer, but the softer side of this book never bemoans too much & pulls you in just enough to tug on your heart. I love that Merit understood the shifters point of view even though she was a vamp. Where all the other vampires see an unwillingness to step forward for a fellow sup, she understands that it's more of an unwillingness to sacrifice themselves & families from the chaos of what the vampires had brought upon themselves.

If you haven't started this series, do. It's well written, exciting, & Merit is a great heroine to read.(less)

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Jul 24, 2010 Alisha rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I think Ms. Neill is my kindred author. Or maybe it's that Merit is my kindred protagonist. ^_^ Either way, the Chicagoland Vampires series is definitely at the very top of my "autobuy" list. Not only that, I also find myself obsessed with Merit and her merry band of characters.

For a while though, I was feeling like something was missing from Merit's usual spunky sassiness. Until I realized that it was because for a while, there was no Mallory! They make such a great pair of pals, and bring out...more

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Oct 29, 2010 I ♥ Bookie Nookie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: genre-pnr-uf, species-vampires, species-weres-and-shifters, 2010-read-in, zz-reviewed, genre-paranormal, i-love-this-old, a-series

I totally love this series...I should have waited until she finished the series before I started it! I am anxious about the next one.

What I really like about this series is that although the heroine is rough and tumble and can get down and dirty with the boys, she is still a woman with a soft side and has to fight against the humanity that still remains within her. A lot of time the bad ass heroine is so tough and repressed it is hard to relate to her, but not Merit.

The men in this series are...more

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Jan 20, 2013 Mary rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, urban-fantasy

Full disclosure: I didn't finish this book. I gave up on it (and by proxy, the series) halfway through.

Life is short, read what you want.

I got tired of Merit and Ethan (mostly Ethan, Merit is okay), of Mallory going from a pretty awesome character to a stereotype.

I got tired of EVERY SINGLE MALE CHARACTER being introduced as "brutally handsome" and "too handsome" and "dangerous" and so on. I think there is something to be said for creating an average-looking (or even ugly) man and have him becom...more

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Jan 09, 2011 Maja rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, favorites, so-many-vampires, my-flat-army, glistening-fangs

From the beginning of book one to the very last page of Twice bitten, the Chicagoland vampires series has kept me awake and often very hungry because I just couldn't put the book down.
Merit finally found her place and is a great Sentinel for the Cadogan house. Sure, Ethan pissed me off a couple of times, but all in all the book was fantastic. I have laughed, cried and jumped in my seat going trough the events side by side with Ethan and Merit.
I highly reccomend this book. I've read a lot of UF...more

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May 08, 2011 FlibBityFLooB rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2010, witty-i-am-not, vampires, shifters, read-more-than-once, read-in-2011, urban-fantasy-or-paranormal

I was very glad that I re-read books 1&2 before reading this book... It had been 6 months and I had forgotten what had happened up to that point. This one started a little slow for me with some of the shifter scenes, but the pace quickly picked up -- Al Capone style. Wheee! I enjoyed the emotional relationship between Merit and Ethan -- lots of interesting plot on that one in this book. I love drama in my urban fantasy, and this one certainly delivered it. hehehe :)

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Apr 17, 2012 Karissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Chicagoland Vampires series and my favorite so far. This book had a more solid plot than previous books and things escalate both between Ethan and Merit and between the shapeshifters and the vampires. Definitely a must read if you enjoyed the first couple books of this series.

I listed to this on audiobook and the audiobooks for this series are incredibly well done. This is one of those series that I think sounds even better than it would read; the narrator just does...more This is the third book in the Chicagoland Vampires series and my favorite so far. This book had a more solid plot than previous books and things escalate both between Ethan and Merit and between the shapeshifters and the vampires. Definitely a must read if you enjoyed the first couple books of this series.

I listed to this on audiobook and the audiobooks for this series are incredibly well done. This is one of those series that I think sounds even better than it would read; the narrator just does such a wonderful job.

Shapeshifters are meeting in the Windy City and they meet to decide if they will return to their homeland or stay for the oncoming supernatural war. Ethan lends out Merit's services as a bodyguard to the shapeshifter's leader Gabriel-Keene. As the time to the Shapeshifter Convocation draws closer it becomes clear that someone has put a hit out on Gabriel. Merit continually finds herself in the line of fire. Not only that but she is trying to navigate treacherous politics between the shapeshifters and vamps while also doing one on one training sessions with Ethan to try to improve her lackluster sparring skills.

This was the best book in this series so far. Things are really building to a climax in multiple ways. The shapeshifters are on the edge of either staying of fleeing as war approaches the supernatural community and the way they choose will tip the balance one way or the other. The tension between Merit and Ethan is constantly building and it was absolutely killing me to know what would happen between them. Merit is starting to understand her own powers and finally figuring out way to break down the wall she keeps hitting when she tries to spar.

Romance is a huge driver in this story. The tension between Merit and Ethan is absolutely sizzling. This is one of those books where I loved Ethan and then I hated him. Seriously he jerks Merit around so much; yet he does it in a strangely understandable way. The only other series I can think of that has had me as emotionally involved as this one is the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost. I swear there were parts of this book where I was holding my breath to see what would happen.

Beyond that a lot of other neat stuff happens in this book. Lots of action in this one, Merit finds herself in a number of combat situations and performs admirably. The addition of the shapeshifters raised the stakes and ratcheted up the tension in this book, really driving the plot forward. So much depending on their decision to stay or leave. I continue to love the fun and witty banter between all of these wonderful characters.

The story wraps up well, but will have people a bit frustrated I am sure. I am very eager to see where both the building-war and the Merit-Ethan thing ends up going. I am dying to read Hard Bitten now. I was a little disappointed that Mallory wasn't in the story more, she always adds a lot of fun. Hopefully we will see her more in future installments.

Overall the best book in this series, absolutely stellar. If you liked the first few books in this series you'll love this one. Tons of action, building tension between the shifters and vamps, and lots of Ethan-Merit moments. This was a super engaging and fun read. Highly recommended to fans of urban fantasy. Reminds a bit of the Night Huntress series; so if you like that series I think you will love this one as well.(less)

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Jul 07, 2010 Renée rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, books-i-own, favourites

Best of the series so far!! I love Ethan/Merit :)

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Mar 31, 2013 Andrea at Reading Lark rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, 5-stars, adult, paranormal, read-in-2011, vampires

Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/5/11: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2011/...

Vampires, Shifters, and Magic - oh my! This was by far my favorite book in the Chicagoland Vampires series so far! Everything heats up in this installment - the romance, the action, and the tempers. I couldn't wait to get back to listening to this one every day during my commute. It occupied my thoughts in between drives quite frequently. The fourth book was just released this week and I instantly scooped it up for my...more Review Posted on Reading Lark 5/5/11: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2011/...

Vampires, Shifters, and Magic - oh my! This was by far my favorite book in the Chicagoland Vampires series so far! Everything heats up in this installment - the romance, the action, and the tempers. I couldn't wait to get back to listening to this one every day during my commute. It occupied my thoughts in between drives quite frequently. The fourth book was just released this week and I instantly scooped it up for my Kindle. I cannot say enough good things about this series.

Twice Bitten follows Merit once again as she kicks some major butt, delivers lots of snark, and seeks to help Cadogan House form an alliance with the Apex of the Shifter packs. I suppose that's all in a day's work for the sentinel of Cadogan House. Every time I think I have seen everything Merit has to offer as a character she shows me something else that helps solidify her place in my female character hall of fame. I just love her. She is so strong and isn't afraid to tell it like it is.

I loved that in this edition we get to see a little bit more of Ethan and get behind his brooding facade. He was never my favorite male character until this book. I still think that there are others who are appealing, but I saw Ethan in a different light. I was sad that there were very little Morgan and Catcher moments in this one. The situations the book focused on didn't truly allow for their characters to be important, but I have to say I missed them. I also loved that in this book we got to learn more about the shifter dynamics and structure.

I was really happy to have Merit and Mallory work through their arguments from the second book. I just didn't like not having Mallory around as much. However, I am loving the blossoming friendship between Merit and Lindsey.

I can't wait to get more from my favorite characters in the next book!

As far as the audio on this one goes I do have one major complaint. The same narrator has read all three books, but for some reason she started pronouncing things differently in this one - like some of the house names and last names of characters - I have no idea why this shift occurred but it irked me. It was also interesting that some of the names she said differently at the beginning of the book were back to normal by the end. You would have thought someone would have caught those mistakes at some point before the cd's were produced.

One Last Gripe: I feel like something major is brewing and I am worried about how the next book is going to go.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: All the fighting - Merit totally holds her own and makes the boys cry

First Sentence: It was the beginning of Route 66, the spot where "America's Main Street" began to traverse the United States.

Favorite Character: Merit

Least Favorite Character: Adam(less)

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Nov 22, 2011 Myvampfiction rated it 5 of 5 stars

review by Saluki

*Warning: possible spoilers ahead.*

The third installment of the Chicagoland Vampire series is my favorite book yet. I'll try not to give too much in my review, but so much happened in this book that there might be a little spoiling ahead, so be warned.

Twice Bitten picks up shortly where Friday Night Bites left off. The big news in the vampire community is that shifters are coming to town. Shifters and vampires have long been enemies, but Ethan is determined to forge an alliance w...more review by Saluki

*Warning: possible spoilers ahead.*

The third installment of the Chicagoland Vampire series is my favorite book yet. I'll try not to give too much in my review, but so much happened in this book that there might be a little spoiling ahead, so be warned.

Twice Bitten picks up shortly where Friday Night Bites left off. The big news in the vampire community is that shifters are coming to town. Shifters and vampires have long been enemies, but Ethan is determined to forge an alliance with them. To that end, he agrees to provide security, namely himself and Merit, for the shifter convention taking place in Chicago. The supernatural community believes a war may be coming, and Ethan believes they need the shifters' support. By providing support to Gabriel Keene, the Alpha of the shifters, Ethan believes he can show the shifter community that vampires can be trusted, and keep them from retreating further into seclusion.

Of course, this isn't a popular decision in either community. Tension runs high on both sides, causing an attempted hit on Gabriel before the convention even starts. The action is intense and the politics delicate, as Gabriel and Ethan try to push past old stereotypes and get their communities to work together.

If guarding shifters isn't enough, Merit has been receiving mysterious invitations...to what, she doesn't know. When she finds out who they are from, she is faced with a decision that could cast her out of Cadogan house and ruin her relationship with Ethan. Merit and Mallory still aren't speaking after their fight, which continues to vex Merit. However, she can't bring herself to apologize, which makes her even more miserable. Speaking of misery, Ethan has her worming her way back into her parent's world in order to gain both information and influence with Chicago's rich and powerful. Oh, and to top it off, things between her and Ethan start to heat up, big time. She trusts her heart to Ethan, all the while wondering if he will break it in the end.

The action in this book is intense. Merit gets to show off her physical strength and speed as a vampire and definitely shows that girls can kick ass and take names. She continues to grow as a vampire, learning to merge her humanity with the vampire inside her that she has been trying so hard to push down. She unleashes her vampire side in a fight with Ethan that I guarantee will leave you panting.

The secondary characters in this series continue to shine. We get to know some of the other vampires in Cadogan house better, as Merit ingrates herself into house and tries to get to know her fellow Noviates. Mallory is coming into her own as a sorceress, and we get to witness her using her new found powers. We also meet new characters, in the form of the Keene family of shifters. Gabriel Keene is a well formed character who provides another dose of supernatural magic to the series. I love that the author doesn't short her secondary characters. I've grown just attached to some of them as I am to Merit and Ethan.

And, speaking of Merit and Ethan. Things get steamy...like grab a cool glass of water because you'll need it steamy. But, what really gripped me was the emotional side of their relationship. Ethan lets his guard down to Merit, and we see a side of him that totally goes against the cool, in control, Master vampire side he shows to the rest of the world. We get to know Ethan better in this book and realize that there is more to him that a desire for power. I still had my share of moments that I wanted to clock him, but he definitely redeems himself by the end of the book.

Chloe Neill continues to build a world filled with supernatural beings in a way that makes them seem real. She continues to give us more glimpses of vampire life, while also learning about shapeshifters. Of all the vampire/paranormal books I've read, I think I like her description of shifters the best. She gives them a depth and complexity that surpasses even the vampire community. I hope we get to see more of the shifters in future books. The way this book ended, I have a pretty good feeling we will.

I can't say enough how much I love this series. The next book, Hard Bitten, is scheduled for release in May 2011. I don't know if I can make it that long. I just finished this book and already miss the characters, and the amazing world the author has created.(less)

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Apr 21, 2011 Sophia (FV) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Originally reviewed at Fiction Vixen

Wow. I have really enjoyed this series so far. I think about the stories and the characters when I’m not reading and for me that’s the mark of a really good book. I am fully invested in Merit’s world and I think this series is getting even better as it goes.

Twice Bitten really had it all for me. The twists and turns in relationships had me all over the place emotionally. One minute smiling and then the next having a “don’t make me throw my e-reader” moment. To...more

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Mar 27, 2011 UKSandy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: to-read-in-2011, april-2011

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Well what a brilliant book, I LOVED this book sooooo much from start to finish! I've done bugger all but read this and everything else in RL went to pot!

Merit & Mallory get back on track which is great as their relationship is just so wonderful, they really need each other and the dialogue between them has me in stiches.

We also got to know Jeff & Lindsey a lot more in this book and I love them both, the author has a lot of wonderful characters in these books, there isn't just 1 or 2, the...more

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Jul 13, 2010 Amy or "Ames" rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: vampires, urban-fantasy, read-in-2010, weres-shifters, series-abandoned, to-donate

A good read. Ethan's an idiot but when is he not? He really needs a Guide to Social Interaction & Behaviour: What's Acceptable and What Isn't. He has some begging to do and the gift he gave Merit was a good start, I hope it cost him an arm and a leg.

The shapeshifters are great but I'm disappointed with Gabriel's relationship status. He has a wife and a child on the way. Ethan is interesting but I think he's too juvenile for Merit. Gabriel on the other hand seems more grown up and less stuffy...more

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Jul 06, 2010 Julie rated it 5 of 5 stars

it was worth staying up most of the night reading.loved ethan and merit
full review to come

Twice Bitten is the continuation of Merit and Ethan and the Cadogan house in Chicago. Ethan wants to train Merit to be an even better Vamp and fighter. Merit has been loaned out to help with the Shifters Con Pack.

Merit is still on the outs with Mallory -who is also in training to be a better Witch. I missed seeing the interaction between these two characters. They make me laugh.

Jeff is more in this book sin...more

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Dec 26, 2010 Dee rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, romance, read-2010

It takes a really good author for me to actually stop and put random status updates with comments about the book, mostly because its stuff I want to remember. But Chloe Neill managed to do it once again with this book. I loved the third installment in the Chicagoland Vampires series - the only problem is that now i have to wait until April/May for the next installment (totally not cool!) I did a happy dance when Merit and Ethan finally hooked up - heck it only took them two and a half books and...more

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Feb 13, 2013 Anna rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal

I suppose I'm cheating as I'm only 1/3 of the way through but I'm really not sure if I'll finish it. I started with book 3 so perhaps I'm being unfair but frankly only one word comes to mind: tedious.
No atmosphere, indifferent characters, clunky writing, romantic interest is formulaic and have yet to find anything that resembles humour. If I get round to finishing this one I will certainly avoid the rest! Anita Blake this is not, despite what it says on the blurb. Oh and whoever is responsible f...more

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Apr 19, 2013 Whit Martin (Whit's Book World) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorite-books, reviewed-by-me, werewolves-vampires, new-adult-challenge

Wow, this is the best one so far in this series! I loved it! So it takes place right after Merit gets a message to meet someone at the fountain I'm Chicago. She meets this mystery person and gets offered an opportunity that could make or break everything she's worked for so far. Then things get worse when Merit and Ethan have to help the shifters and try to build an alliance with them and keep them in Chicago. I thought Ethan was a horrible jerk through a lot of this book, but in the end he rede...more

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Jan 17, 2013 beepbop rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: angsty-love, fun-but-not-a-must-read, mystery, pnromance, sexy-men, vampires, shifters

No wonder this one got the highest rating in the whole series. I couldn't agree more with everyone. Fun, haughty, The book has it's frustrating moments! Like how there's so many potential partners for Merit...but Neill always writes them off..I thought Adam, the shifter, would have been a great love interest for Merit..but he turned out evil -___-...and then there's Morgan!! Sighhh, what a waste. I guess we all figured out that it's Ethan's way or no way, huh. And Neill knows how to write embarr...more

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Jan 03, 2013 Christine rated it 3 of 5 stars

Gabriel Keene, pack leader for the North American shifters, comes in town for a conference with the other pack division leaders to discuss supernatural relations. They are currently unknown to the human population-will they remain silent or announce their presence? If the vampires go to war, will they retreat to Alaska or aid in the fight? Merit and Ethan accompany Gabriel and the other leaders to a bar for a meeting of the minds when things go terribly wrong. **spoiler alert** An assassin tries...more

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Jan 02, 2013 Cassandra Frederick rated it 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this book! I don’t have a single complaint about it. Merit continues to be an awesome character and I love seeing her growth throughout each book. Along with her, the side characters have grown as well, becoming more and more interesting. We got to see more insight into Ethan in this book and I actually feel like I understand him a bit more than I did before. Jeff gets a little more screen time in this book, which is great to see and I’ve even grown fond of Mallory in this book and I did...more

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Dec 25, 2012 Haley rated it 5 of 5 stars

This just keeps gettin better and better!!! *rubs hand excitedly while squealing with glee*

remember the sexual TENSION (and when i say tension i mean TENSION)
well, happily :), its in this one 2
if u want the to kno a short summary of the tension click here
--> (view spoiler)...more

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Aug 19, 2012 Christi Snow rated it 5 of 5 stars

My Review:

I liked this book in the series...lots of action, tons of emotion, lots of Merit kicking butt. I like that, but this also was a book where Merit took some serious shots to her heart too, which made my heart ache for her. But it did make for a fabulous book!!

This was it....the book where things turn a corner for our heroine (isn't book #3 where that happens in all these Urban Fantasy series?) Things heated up between her and Ethan, but when that got to be too much for him, he broke her...more My Review:

I liked this book in the series...lots of action, tons of emotion, lots of Merit kicking butt. I like that, but this also was a book where Merit took some serious shots to her heart too, which made my heart ache for her. But it did make for a fabulous book!!

This was it....the book where things turn a corner for our heroine (isn't book #3 where that happens in all these Urban Fantasy series?) Things heated up between her and Ethan, but when that got to be too much for him, he broke her heart (but you know, the author has already said that there's going to be at least 10 books in this series, so that wasn't such a surprise...in fact, I'm sure it will happen a few more times before it's all said and done and our heroine rides off into her happily ever after.)

But this book really introduced us to the politics of the shifter community rather than the vampire community (although that was still present in this book too.) Long time frenemies, the shifters and vampires have an unsteady alliance, but as things heat up in the vampire world now that humans know they exist, the shifters are becoming edgy. When they become edgy, they tend to take off to the Alaskan wilderness where they are safe. The vampires don't want that....they need the strength that the shifters can provide if they stand by the vampires so Ethan is working hard to forge that alliance. But you know that these books are all about Merit so you know, she has a heavy influence in all this.

I liked Merit so much in this book. She takes a LOT of mental blows, but she's learning to stand on her own and be self-confident in herself as a vampire and as a warrior. She was tough in this one...in so many different ways when she had all kinds of things thrown at her. She's smart, she's quick-thinking, and I just love her character.

Now the debate is....do I move on to Book #4? I'm happy with this series right now and have heard so many grumblings about it from the next book on. I WANT to keep reading, and I fully plan to in the future, but right now, there are only 3 more of the 7 more planned actually out. Do I wait to read so I don't have to wait on pins and needles getting frustrated with the author and the way that she tortures her readers (at least that's what I've heard) or do I settle now fairly happy with where the series stands?? hmmm, decisions, but I'm just not sure I can resist book #4 sitting out there on my table. Maybe I'll just read the first chapter....
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Aug 17, 2012 Dangerous Romance Book Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book was such an emotional rollercoaster to read for me. I love the world Chloe Neill has created and the fact I don’t have to wait to read the next book as they were published awhile ago. The fact that I can roll into the next book is such a relief for me – I can’t even tell you. I H A T E waiting. Hate it.

The shifters have arrived into Chicago, now the vamps are out and a war is brewing (because of Celina, the former master of the Narvarre House) the shifters are going to discuss the wisd...more This book was such an emotional rollercoaster to read for me. I love the world Chloe Neill has created and the fact I don’t have to wait to read the next book as they were published awhile ago. The fact that I can roll into the next book is such a relief for me – I can’t even tell you. I H A T E waiting. Hate it.

The shifters have arrived into Chicago, now the vamps are out and a war is brewing (because of Celina, the former master of the Narvarre House) the shifters are going to discuss the wisdom of tucking their tail between their leg – eerh, I mean returning home to Aurora, and to stay and fight – perhaps even build a friendship of sorts with the vampires. But it’s not going to be easy. There are problems on both sides. Vampires are immortal and they don’t forget slights done to them, or their families. The shifters really don’t care about the politics (which is right up at vamps alley), but they care much about their family, about pack.

In the last book things ended badly between Merit and Morgan. They’re still not good friends, probably never will be, but maybe some kind of mutual respect can be build with time.

Mallory and Merit also came to odds with each other in Friday Night Bites, which isn’t easy to resolve. When best friends get mad at each other – and I do mean REALLY mad, things come up that should’ve been left alone. The best and worst part of having a best friend is that you tell her EVERYTHING. It also means that when she’s pissed at you, she will sometimes hurl it right back at you, and she will always tell you the truth. Even if you don’t want to know it.

You can see where I’m going with the rollercoaster, right? Well, this isn’t the only thing. The relationship between Ethan and Merit is… well it’s difficult, straining on both of them and utterly impossible to ignore. They both want each other, and it pisses them both off insanely. Well, ladies and gentlemen.. It happens in this book! They are FINALLY having sex!! YAY! :-) Everything is bliss… for 24 hours. Then Ethan changes his mind and they’re back to square one. Again. (Can I just say I think he’s a chickenshit?!) Only this time there are other complications Merit needs to take into considerations. The invitation to the Red Guard (a secret guard that spy on the masters and take action if necessary), her possible make-up with Mallory, protecting Gabriel (the Alpha of the North American Central Pack) who’s got a price on his head, the returning of one of Ethans old ex-girlfriend… Yep, Merit is a busy girl.

I love this series, the characters in it, their development, everything that keeps getting thrown at Merit and how she handles it. I’m already reading the next book in the series; Hard Bitten, and I CAN NOT wait to see where Chloe Neill takes me next!
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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 Twice Bitten

“You undo me, Merit. Wholly and completely. You don't take me at my word. You challenge me at every opportunity. And that means when I'm with you, I am less than the head of this House...and I am more than the head of this House. I am a man." He stroked my cheeks with his thumbs. "In my very, very long life, I need you more than I have ever needed anything.” — 348 people liked it

“He paused, then tapped a finger against the box. “This is a wish,” he said quietly, “that even after four hundred years of existence, a man can be strong enough to accept the gifts he’s given.”
“Ethan—,” I began, but he shook his head.
“I’m prepared to wait for a positive response.”
“That’s going to take a while.”
Ethan lifted a single eyebrow, a grin lifting one corner of his mouth. “Sentinel, I am immortal.” — 188 people liked it

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Twice Bitten (Chicagoland Vampires #3)

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