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Timeshifters
Risking Eternity
A Vampire Romance Novella
After a childhood spent watching her psychic mother struggle to make a living reading tarot cards in their shabby New Orleans apartment, Hayden Farrell isn't taken in by much. As far as she's concerned, the only thing extraordinary about this world is people's willingness to put their faith in things that don't exist. For the past decade she's believed in one thing: being a cop. But when teen-age prostitutes start turning up dead, the Boston homicide detective is forced to do something she hasn't done since she fled Louisiana. To catch the killer she's got to trust a stranger whose version of reality threatens to destroy her own.
Valentin Grigorievich has wanted revenge since London's most notorious serial killer betrayed him more than a century earlier. To get it, he needs Hayden's help--and maybe her life as well. While Valentin may be immune to her good looks he finds it increasingly difficult to resist the dark connection that binds them. Will the vampire's plan give him the satisfaction he craves or rob him of his soul mate?
This paranormal suspense novella is the first book in the Timeshifters series (forthcoming 2012)
Length: 30,000 words
Heat Level: Spicy
After a childhood spent watching her psychic mother struggle to make a living reading tarot cards in their shabby New Orleans apartment, Hayden Farrell isn't taken in by much. As far as she's concerned, the only thing extraordinary about this world is people's willingness to put their faith in things that don't exist. For the past decade she's believed in one thing: being a cop. But when teen-age prostitutes start turning up dead, the Boston homicide detective is forced to do something she hasn't done since she fled Louisiana. To catch the killer she's got to trust a stranger whose version of reality threatens to destroy her own.
Valentin Grigorievich has wanted revenge since London's most notorious serial killer betrayed him more than a century earlier. To get it, he needs Hayden's help--and maybe her life as well. While Valentin may be immune to her good looks he finds it increasingly difficult to resist the dark connection that binds them. Will the vampire's plan give him the satisfaction he craves or rob him of his soul mate?
This paranormal suspense novella is the first book in the Timeshifters series (forthcoming 2012)
Length: 30,000 words
Heat Level: Spicy
100 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2011
5 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Gwenan Haines
6 books133 followersI live in New England with my daughter and a Siberian husky born on Halloween. I'm the author of two romantic suspense novels and a third, COLLATERAL RISK, is due out later this year. I've been hooked on suspense ever since my mom read me one of her old Nancy Drew mysteries when I was five years old. I also love romance and fantasy. My paranormal novella, WRAITH, and novel, SHIFT, the first two installments in the SHADOW WORLD series, are under contract with Wild Rose Press's fantasy line. When I'm not plotting my newest mystery, I teach community college and write lots of poetry.
You can follow me on Facebook, Tumblr (GwenanHaines) or visit my blog at http://gwenanhaines.blogspot.com. I'm redesigning it now but hope to put up some free reads and extras this May.
You can follow me on Facebook, Tumblr (GwenanHaines) or visit my blog at http://gwenanhaines.blogspot.com. I'm redesigning it now but hope to put up some free reads and extras this May.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 30, 2012
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com for readers
BRIEF SUMMARY
Hayden is a cop in Boston, investigating a string of murders that involves prostitutes. During her investigation, she comes across a stranger, Valentin, who has been watching her since the start of the murders. Valentin has been tracking down this serial killer since London, for centuries and needs Hayden’s help. While he feels an unknown connection to Hayden, Valentin, a vampire, needs to explain his history in order to get the help he needs from Hayden.
THOUGHTS
This was a much unforeseen plot with a riveting storyline that was quite engaging. Within the first two chapters, I was unsure where the story was taking me, and I was unsure about Valentin. However, there is nothing like an unexpected turn in a story that catches you off guard. This story had depth to it the further it progress, as a foundation to a series is being created. Valentin’s vampire characteristics were very much appealing as he had a presence that was alluring and a bit unwelcoming as well that adds to his appeal. I say unwelcoming because I couldn’t figure out Valentine along with his true motives. Hayden is focused on her job and has no excitement in her life. The moment both characters met, it was interesting.
Reading about Valentin’s past as he explains it and the connection to Jack the Ripper, and his long time nemesis was a surprise and had me glued to the novella to read more. This was definitely a well packed novella that readers can enjoy especially for its storyline.
The only thing that might disappoint readers is the cliff hanger ending that leads to a full length novel that we patiently have to wait on. But I do feel this is an author to watch out for with her next paranormal book.
Storyline: GOOD
Intimacy: SPICY
Enjoyment: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
BRIEF SUMMARY
Hayden is a cop in Boston, investigating a string of murders that involves prostitutes. During her investigation, she comes across a stranger, Valentin, who has been watching her since the start of the murders. Valentin has been tracking down this serial killer since London, for centuries and needs Hayden’s help. While he feels an unknown connection to Hayden, Valentin, a vampire, needs to explain his history in order to get the help he needs from Hayden.
THOUGHTS
This was a much unforeseen plot with a riveting storyline that was quite engaging. Within the first two chapters, I was unsure where the story was taking me, and I was unsure about Valentin. However, there is nothing like an unexpected turn in a story that catches you off guard. This story had depth to it the further it progress, as a foundation to a series is being created. Valentin’s vampire characteristics were very much appealing as he had a presence that was alluring and a bit unwelcoming as well that adds to his appeal. I say unwelcoming because I couldn’t figure out Valentine along with his true motives. Hayden is focused on her job and has no excitement in her life. The moment both characters met, it was interesting.
Reading about Valentin’s past as he explains it and the connection to Jack the Ripper, and his long time nemesis was a surprise and had me glued to the novella to read more. This was definitely a well packed novella that readers can enjoy especially for its storyline.
The only thing that might disappoint readers is the cliff hanger ending that leads to a full length novel that we patiently have to wait on. But I do feel this is an author to watch out for with her next paranormal book.
Storyline: GOOD
Intimacy: SPICY
Enjoyment: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
March 5, 2012
I have no idea what the story was (really) about as it's mostly a teaser of a future series. The idea isn't that fresh (Jack the Ripper as a supe), but the plot is interesting, dark and suspenseful.
I'm not a fan of either soul mates nor reincarnation, so the love affair didn't click for me. To really judge though I have to wait the novels.
I'm not a fan of either soul mates nor reincarnation, so the love affair didn't click for me. To really judge though I have to wait the novels.
March 3, 2013
Risking Eternity begins with a vampire named Valentin standing at his hotel room window observing the police below gather around the first of a string of serial murders. He is aware of who is doing it and even knows why. They are reminiscent of the methods used by Jack the Ripper back more than a century before, which Valentin had been around for as well. He feels somewhat responsible for the deaths, which is what drives him to put an end to them. He can't let more innocent people die, but it means using one particular woman to make them stop.
That woman would be the one investigating the crime, Hayden. She has no idea he is watching her or forming a plan involving her, but does have a feeling something isn't right. She saw the telltale fang marks on the victim and the fact there is no major blood spill despite the body being drained. Hayden doesn't want to believe in the signs, because the paranormal is one area she refuses to give credence, but that means finding an alternative. Growing up with her mother taught her the supernatural is fake, but it still doesn't answer the question of how the victim was killed, if not by a vampire. She is determined to solve the crime as she has never failed to do so yet. That leads her on an investigation that will alter her life forever. Whether that is for the good or bad remains to be seen.
Some books advertise their stories as being dark paranormal romance. Many of them don't deliver on that promise, but I can tell you this one does. There is nothing soft, fluffy, or nice about this story. Every bit of it involves, blood, death, revenge, and betrayal. You will turn the pages wondering how the characters will find romance amidst it all. Perhaps they do, but not in the way you expect. This is one highly suspenseful tale that provides excellent descriptions that captivate the mind while keeping the pace moving. I was able to read it all in one sitting and felt surprise when it came to an end, the time passed so quickly.
Potential readers should keep in mind that this is a novella. The world-building provides most of what you need, but it isn't as in-depth as a full novel would be. There are a few details that could have been filled in better, including how vampires sustain themselves and how they operate in the world. You get some hints of these things, but not as much as most people might prefer. I assume the author will fill those in further in the regular size novel that will follow this one. The ending has a couple of holes in it regarding what happens with Hayden, but I don't want to give that away because it would spoil the book. What I can say is I still liked how it concluded and felt it made up for some of those holes mentioned before. The story is definitely left open for further exploration.
I do plan to read more and find out what happens next. This dark tale fit too well with what I enjoy in a paranormal series to not give the next book a chance. Plus I think the characters are rather intriguing and there is a lot more I want to learn about them. There wasn't much time to develop them in this novella, but there were enough hints into their backgrounds to peak my interest. I also noticed a few errors sprinkled throughout, but they weren't extensive and didn't bother me much. Part of the reason for that is the author's smooth writing kept the flow of the story going so I could enjoy it as it unfolded.
If you are a dark paranormal fan, you might give this one a shot. You'll find the writer's use of the Jack the Ripper story line to be one of the best versions compared to the others out there. She provides enough details to be very convincing in how a vampire could have done it. It was clear she researched it heavily. I really didn't feel that it was just another author using a tired story-line. This one was fresh and different and that made it much more intriguing than others I have seen. I was glad I gave this novella a chance and expect good things from this author in the future. She has a few things to tighten up in her writing, but has definite promise that makes it worth the time to try her books out.
That woman would be the one investigating the crime, Hayden. She has no idea he is watching her or forming a plan involving her, but does have a feeling something isn't right. She saw the telltale fang marks on the victim and the fact there is no major blood spill despite the body being drained. Hayden doesn't want to believe in the signs, because the paranormal is one area she refuses to give credence, but that means finding an alternative. Growing up with her mother taught her the supernatural is fake, but it still doesn't answer the question of how the victim was killed, if not by a vampire. She is determined to solve the crime as she has never failed to do so yet. That leads her on an investigation that will alter her life forever. Whether that is for the good or bad remains to be seen.
Some books advertise their stories as being dark paranormal romance. Many of them don't deliver on that promise, but I can tell you this one does. There is nothing soft, fluffy, or nice about this story. Every bit of it involves, blood, death, revenge, and betrayal. You will turn the pages wondering how the characters will find romance amidst it all. Perhaps they do, but not in the way you expect. This is one highly suspenseful tale that provides excellent descriptions that captivate the mind while keeping the pace moving. I was able to read it all in one sitting and felt surprise when it came to an end, the time passed so quickly.
Potential readers should keep in mind that this is a novella. The world-building provides most of what you need, but it isn't as in-depth as a full novel would be. There are a few details that could have been filled in better, including how vampires sustain themselves and how they operate in the world. You get some hints of these things, but not as much as most people might prefer. I assume the author will fill those in further in the regular size novel that will follow this one. The ending has a couple of holes in it regarding what happens with Hayden, but I don't want to give that away because it would spoil the book. What I can say is I still liked how it concluded and felt it made up for some of those holes mentioned before. The story is definitely left open for further exploration.
I do plan to read more and find out what happens next. This dark tale fit too well with what I enjoy in a paranormal series to not give the next book a chance. Plus I think the characters are rather intriguing and there is a lot more I want to learn about them. There wasn't much time to develop them in this novella, but there were enough hints into their backgrounds to peak my interest. I also noticed a few errors sprinkled throughout, but they weren't extensive and didn't bother me much. Part of the reason for that is the author's smooth writing kept the flow of the story going so I could enjoy it as it unfolded.
If you are a dark paranormal fan, you might give this one a shot. You'll find the writer's use of the Jack the Ripper story line to be one of the best versions compared to the others out there. She provides enough details to be very convincing in how a vampire could have done it. It was clear she researched it heavily. I really didn't feel that it was just another author using a tired story-line. This one was fresh and different and that made it much more intriguing than others I have seen. I was glad I gave this novella a chance and expect good things from this author in the future. She has a few things to tighten up in her writing, but has definite promise that makes it worth the time to try her books out.
January 8, 2012
Review posted here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2012/01/indie-book-review-risking-eternity.html
I got a request to review this book a few weeks back and again I am so shocked that I get asked to do reviews. And even better, I come across some pretty amazing stuff and this was definitely one of them. This was a 96 page short story that was satisfying from beginning to end.
Risking Eternity follows a cop named Hayden. She is on the case of the murder of a teenage prostitute who was killed and left in front of a church. Thing is the girl was drained of blood and she had puncture holes in her neck. Hayden doesn’t believe in vampires (or anything supernatural because of her conning mother), but she has a feeling that is what killed the girl. Valentin needs Hayden to help him without her thinking he is the murderer of the young girls around town. She is suspicious of him, but can’t help but trust him. For some reason, they have a connection that goes beyond the physical, but they have no time to explore it because there is a serial killer on the loose and they both have an agenda.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and gave me a glimpse of everything. Now, as most short stories do, we don’t have a complete story of everyone and everything. We do get some backstory on our main characters, but not enough. I still liked them though. But as I said, I usually expect short backgrounds from short stories. The plot was interesting. Valentin offers Hayden his help and info on the killer, but he has his own plans for Hayden where the killer is concerned. I loved how Haines used some history in this book. It really added another level to the plot. I won’t spoil it, but I think you will like it. It definitely makes the villain more relatable is a weird sense. I really liked the villain; he really played quite the part near the end of the book and made things extra difficult for Valentin. The man was the very definition of cunning.
My biggest complaint was Valentin. Well not much of a complaint, but he made me a bit angry. When we learn what he wanted Hayden for, it sort of pissed me off. He has an attraction to her, but he still sort of treats her like nothing, all for the sake of revenge. But there is something more going on with him because after he accomplishes what he wants, he plans to sleep for 100 years. So something big is coming, but we don’t know what yet. I guess he had to be cold. Still, he isn’t the nicest vampire in the world (that is a weird statement). I can’t wait to read what his story is because he obviously knows something and it scares him.
Overall, this is a great start to a series. There is much more to this story, but it is a prequel. So remember, it is just getting your feet wet. It flowed well and Haines is a fantastic writer. I both love and hate how this ended. I understand because Hayden truly needs to clear things up with her mother, but I also wanted that HEA. But I know there will be more to come and I am very excited for the sequel.
I got a request to review this book a few weeks back and again I am so shocked that I get asked to do reviews. And even better, I come across some pretty amazing stuff and this was definitely one of them. This was a 96 page short story that was satisfying from beginning to end.
Risking Eternity follows a cop named Hayden. She is on the case of the murder of a teenage prostitute who was killed and left in front of a church. Thing is the girl was drained of blood and she had puncture holes in her neck. Hayden doesn’t believe in vampires (or anything supernatural because of her conning mother), but she has a feeling that is what killed the girl. Valentin needs Hayden to help him without her thinking he is the murderer of the young girls around town. She is suspicious of him, but can’t help but trust him. For some reason, they have a connection that goes beyond the physical, but they have no time to explore it because there is a serial killer on the loose and they both have an agenda.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and gave me a glimpse of everything. Now, as most short stories do, we don’t have a complete story of everyone and everything. We do get some backstory on our main characters, but not enough. I still liked them though. But as I said, I usually expect short backgrounds from short stories. The plot was interesting. Valentin offers Hayden his help and info on the killer, but he has his own plans for Hayden where the killer is concerned. I loved how Haines used some history in this book. It really added another level to the plot. I won’t spoil it, but I think you will like it. It definitely makes the villain more relatable is a weird sense. I really liked the villain; he really played quite the part near the end of the book and made things extra difficult for Valentin. The man was the very definition of cunning.
My biggest complaint was Valentin. Well not much of a complaint, but he made me a bit angry. When we learn what he wanted Hayden for, it sort of pissed me off. He has an attraction to her, but he still sort of treats her like nothing, all for the sake of revenge. But there is something more going on with him because after he accomplishes what he wants, he plans to sleep for 100 years. So something big is coming, but we don’t know what yet. I guess he had to be cold. Still, he isn’t the nicest vampire in the world (that is a weird statement). I can’t wait to read what his story is because he obviously knows something and it scares him.
Overall, this is a great start to a series. There is much more to this story, but it is a prequel. So remember, it is just getting your feet wet. It flowed well and Haines is a fantastic writer. I both love and hate how this ended. I understand because Hayden truly needs to clear things up with her mother, but I also wanted that HEA. But I know there will be more to come and I am very excited for the sequel.
February 7, 2012
A dark and sinister tale of revenge and romance!
Hayden Farell is a skeptic cop who believes only in what she sees. To catch the serial killer targeting young prostitutes killed under strange circumstances, Hayden must trust a stranger, Valentin Grigorievich, who seems to know a lot more about the killer than he leads on. What Hayden doesn't know is that Valentin is a vampire who has been tracking the killer for centuries, dating back a hundred years in London, where it all started. Seeking revenge for a loss suffered at the hands of the killer, Valentin joins forces with Hayden to hunt the killer down, but his plans of vengeance are questioned when he realizes the dark but pulling connection to Hayden may prove more important.
This is a thriller combined with a little bit of history and paranormal elements mixed in. The plot is quite unique and I love the blending of vampires and Jack the Ripper. While I expected a bit more romance, Risking Eternity falls more into the urban fantasy category with its dark undertones and strong suspense.
Valentin isn't the hero you fall for instantly, but his dark side and air of mystery make him extremely appealing (I love me a bad boy!). You never know who's side he's really on and it's this constant guessing that kept me intrigued. Hayden is a strong heroine who has a hard time trusting others and is dedicated to her profession. I was moved by her dedication and the way she tried her best to resist her attraction to Valentin at every turn, it made for an interesting pairing of characters. We also meet the third party in this story, the dreaded villain, who plays his part well and adds a little more action and mystery along the way.
If you're looking for a sweet and strong paranormal romance with a perfect happily ever after, you won't find it in Risking Eternity. Instead you'll find a dark paranormal romance with a gothic feel that will keep you engaged with Ms. Haines' edgy writing style. I'm usually not a fan of cliffhangers but I'll settle for one if it means more of Hayden and Valentin is to come!
{ebook courtesy of author for review}
Original Romancing the Darkside review:
http://romancingthedarkside.blogspot....
Hayden Farell is a skeptic cop who believes only in what she sees. To catch the serial killer targeting young prostitutes killed under strange circumstances, Hayden must trust a stranger, Valentin Grigorievich, who seems to know a lot more about the killer than he leads on. What Hayden doesn't know is that Valentin is a vampire who has been tracking the killer for centuries, dating back a hundred years in London, where it all started. Seeking revenge for a loss suffered at the hands of the killer, Valentin joins forces with Hayden to hunt the killer down, but his plans of vengeance are questioned when he realizes the dark but pulling connection to Hayden may prove more important.
This is a thriller combined with a little bit of history and paranormal elements mixed in. The plot is quite unique and I love the blending of vampires and Jack the Ripper. While I expected a bit more romance, Risking Eternity falls more into the urban fantasy category with its dark undertones and strong suspense.
Valentin isn't the hero you fall for instantly, but his dark side and air of mystery make him extremely appealing (I love me a bad boy!). You never know who's side he's really on and it's this constant guessing that kept me intrigued. Hayden is a strong heroine who has a hard time trusting others and is dedicated to her profession. I was moved by her dedication and the way she tried her best to resist her attraction to Valentin at every turn, it made for an interesting pairing of characters. We also meet the third party in this story, the dreaded villain, who plays his part well and adds a little more action and mystery along the way.
If you're looking for a sweet and strong paranormal romance with a perfect happily ever after, you won't find it in Risking Eternity. Instead you'll find a dark paranormal romance with a gothic feel that will keep you engaged with Ms. Haines' edgy writing style. I'm usually not a fan of cliffhangers but I'll settle for one if it means more of Hayden and Valentin is to come!
{ebook courtesy of author for review}
Original Romancing the Darkside review:
http://romancingthedarkside.blogspot....
July 28, 2013
Gosh I loved this book. I should also apologize like right up front that I am so grossly late with this review. This book came out in June and I had hoped to get this up for you so you could be a bad ass and buy it on it's first day out, but I suck and not surprisingly- it's hard to read, pack, and move to a new house at the same time. But now that I'm all settled, I can find my Nook cord again and I have had some free time, I'm back to reading like a crazy person. This clearly was the first on the list.
And YAY for that because it was fantastic.
One of my favorite things about books is when I can't tell you who is doing the bad stuff in the book but I have a pretty decent guess- and this book nailed it. As soon as the bad guy character comes up, I kind of thought it was him but then I'm like nah... it might be the sketchy employer too- she seems up to no good. Also great? I love female lead characters that are not damsel in distress and are more like, "No, you get the eff of my property asshole". I mean, that's not a line out of the book but it's something Blake Cartwright would say and I can absolutely appreciate that. Also Declan? Hottie. Anytime you have a male lead with a Navy SEAL physique? I'm all in.
The other great thing about this book is that you're reading it and you so know this could be a Lifetime movie and you just hope they don't cast Tori Spelling because she ruins everything. The writing is good, the characters are good, the story line is fantastic, and it's not too long where you think, "good grief will this ever end", but it's the perfect length to put things together for you. I also love books with an epilogue. Which is kind of necessary considering how the last chapter ended, but I like feeling like I'm leaving a story knowing what happens to the characters in the long run. You read the story and you become invested and you just want to know what happens to their story later on, and Gwenan delivered on that.
Overall? 4/5 stars. For sure. I really liked the story, it's right up there with something you'd read by Linda Howard and even Nora Roberts with a little Sandra Brown tossed in there. If you are a fan of any of those ladies, you are going to like this book.
http://strandupdate.blogspot.com
And YAY for that because it was fantastic.
One of my favorite things about books is when I can't tell you who is doing the bad stuff in the book but I have a pretty decent guess- and this book nailed it. As soon as the bad guy character comes up, I kind of thought it was him but then I'm like nah... it might be the sketchy employer too- she seems up to no good. Also great? I love female lead characters that are not damsel in distress and are more like, "No, you get the eff of my property asshole". I mean, that's not a line out of the book but it's something Blake Cartwright would say and I can absolutely appreciate that. Also Declan? Hottie. Anytime you have a male lead with a Navy SEAL physique? I'm all in.
The other great thing about this book is that you're reading it and you so know this could be a Lifetime movie and you just hope they don't cast Tori Spelling because she ruins everything. The writing is good, the characters are good, the story line is fantastic, and it's not too long where you think, "good grief will this ever end", but it's the perfect length to put things together for you. I also love books with an epilogue. Which is kind of necessary considering how the last chapter ended, but I like feeling like I'm leaving a story knowing what happens to the characters in the long run. You read the story and you become invested and you just want to know what happens to their story later on, and Gwenan delivered on that.
Overall? 4/5 stars. For sure. I really liked the story, it's right up there with something you'd read by Linda Howard and even Nora Roberts with a little Sandra Brown tossed in there. If you are a fan of any of those ladies, you are going to like this book.
http://strandupdate.blogspot.com
April 29, 2012
This is such a good book! Risking Eternity follows cop Hayden Farrell as she begins to investigate the murder of a young prostitute whose blood-drained body is left outside a church. She’s being watched at the murder scene by a mysterious figure, whose thoughts about her we share. Is he the murderer? Certainly the murders seem personal to him, but he also appears to have some sort of tie to Hayden as well.
Hayden distrusts the supernatural. Her mother was a fake psychic who involved her in her deceptions. Hayden likes concrete facts and ends she can tie up. She prefers to live in the real world. While her friends are happy to watch handsome heroes and beautiful heroines making out in films, Hayden would rather be taking part in the action!
The brooding figure of vampire Valentin both scares and attracts her. But they need each other. Valentin can help Hayden solve the murders and she can help him wreak revenge on a killer from the past who has resurfaced. But need becomes exploitation...
This is a fascinating, dark paranormal romance. The characters are rounded and complex, flawed and believable. There is simmering sexual tension between Valentin and Hayden from the start, even though he’s adamant at first that she’s ‘not his type’. You simply can’t predict what will happen next in the story.The plot is original and ingenious with skillfully created suspense and a denouement that smacks you in the face.
This intelligent, atmospheric, sexy novella is the first in the new Timeshifter series from this amazingly talented writer. Do put this book on your ‘to read’ list. If not, you’re missing out on a very rare treat. I for one will be reading everything from Gwenan Haines, now that I have discovered her.
Hayden distrusts the supernatural. Her mother was a fake psychic who involved her in her deceptions. Hayden likes concrete facts and ends she can tie up. She prefers to live in the real world. While her friends are happy to watch handsome heroes and beautiful heroines making out in films, Hayden would rather be taking part in the action!
The brooding figure of vampire Valentin both scares and attracts her. But they need each other. Valentin can help Hayden solve the murders and she can help him wreak revenge on a killer from the past who has resurfaced. But need becomes exploitation...
This is a fascinating, dark paranormal romance. The characters are rounded and complex, flawed and believable. There is simmering sexual tension between Valentin and Hayden from the start, even though he’s adamant at first that she’s ‘not his type’. You simply can’t predict what will happen next in the story.The plot is original and ingenious with skillfully created suspense and a denouement that smacks you in the face.
This intelligent, atmospheric, sexy novella is the first in the new Timeshifter series from this amazingly talented writer. Do put this book on your ‘to read’ list. If not, you’re missing out on a very rare treat. I for one will be reading everything from Gwenan Haines, now that I have discovered her.
April 20, 2014
This book starts out with Valentin looking over a crime scene from a hotel room, watching Hayden. Though he has dark thoughts towards her, he is drawn to her as well. Hayden has been investigating a string of murders. The serial killer is targeting young prostitutes. It is the same killer that Valentin has been tracking for centuries since London. Though Valentin is trying to warn Hayden off the case, she is like a dog with a bone and with no other option they team up.
This was a completely different look into Haines work for me compared to the last book I read. I would say it was darker and more suspenseful. It had a light paranormal feel, but it was more urban fantasy, to me. Surprisingly, I actually found myself turning the page eagerly when this is not my typical sort of read. I like how she incorporated Jack the Ripper into the book. I had suspected it when I was connecting the dots, but didn't expect it was really that. The thing that drove me nuts was how it ended. I seriously said out loud "you have to be kidding me!!!!” For a beginning of a new series, it was a good start, but grrrrrr at that ending. I like my Happily Ever After endings. I guess this is an instant way to keep readers eager to read on to the next in the series. In my case, it worked. I will be waiting for the next installment
This was a completely different look into Haines work for me compared to the last book I read. I would say it was darker and more suspenseful. It had a light paranormal feel, but it was more urban fantasy, to me. Surprisingly, I actually found myself turning the page eagerly when this is not my typical sort of read. I like how she incorporated Jack the Ripper into the book. I had suspected it when I was connecting the dots, but didn't expect it was really that. The thing that drove me nuts was how it ended. I seriously said out loud "you have to be kidding me!!!!” For a beginning of a new series, it was a good start, but grrrrrr at that ending. I like my Happily Ever After endings. I guess this is an instant way to keep readers eager to read on to the next in the series. In my case, it worked. I will be waiting for the next installment
December 31, 2011
This novella took me by surprise. I really enjoyed reading it and I liked how Jack the Ripper was tied into the story. Now, from a paranormal romance reader stand point there are some issues. This reads more like an Urban Fantasy because there’s no Happy Ever After (HEA) or a Happy for now (HFN) ending. The thing is this is a trilogy so I hope to see more romance grow between these two in future books because I'm not feeling the love from these two like I’d like too. Now, I have you asking why I rated this 4 right;) The biggest reason is I loved the writing style and it's a darker romance than most that you don't get in most romance books. There are some loose ends that I think will be fulfilled as the series continues. This author has a lot of talent and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
While Valentin wants to deny his feelings and borderlines on hating Hayden he ends up getting all tied up with her while trying to catch the killer. When things get heated he just has to have her. Hayden is strong and wants to catch the killer, what she doesn’t know is she might be the one that is caught up in the middle more than she knows.
I liked reading the characters even the villain. I recommend this to those who wants more hard core vampires.
While Valentin wants to deny his feelings and borderlines on hating Hayden he ends up getting all tied up with her while trying to catch the killer. When things get heated he just has to have her. Hayden is strong and wants to catch the killer, what she doesn’t know is she might be the one that is caught up in the middle more than she knows.
I liked reading the characters even the villain. I recommend this to those who wants more hard core vampires.
January 7, 2016
This book is cool, and hey I'm not just saying that because Vampires are my favorite monsters. Hayden is a cop and she is new to the city. While on the job Hayden is being watched by Valentin. The murder that Hayden and her police force are investigating is looking like a vampire attack. Hayden doesn't believe in the supernatural. So While walking home from a bacholarette party Valentin is watching out for her by following her and making sure his messages are getting across to her. When Valentin tries to convince her of her destiny she says "whatever", her non-believing way lands her in a dangerous spot. But will Valentin and Hayden get past each others feelings in order to save the next victim? Read this book and find out.
August 6, 2016
Ah, where is my closure? I did just notice that this says it's #1. So hopefully, there is more to this series. Hayden is a cop who's searching for a killer. Valentin is a vampire searching for revenge.
I really like how the author tied in the Jack the Ripper serial killer. Henry, has no remorse. He hates humans. Since his one true love died over a hundred years ago he lost his sanity. Valentin wants to stop him at all costs.
I really enjoyed this. The book came together really well but the ending left way more to be desired. It really irritated me. I need closure.
I really like how the author tied in the Jack the Ripper serial killer. Henry, has no remorse. He hates humans. Since his one true love died over a hundred years ago he lost his sanity. Valentin wants to stop him at all costs.
I really enjoyed this. The book came together really well but the ending left way more to be desired. It really irritated me. I need closure.
March 2, 2012
This novella is an excellent introduction to the series. It gives you just enough to tease you and wonder what the hell is going on ... That being said, I will most likely read another one to get a feel for what the books are really like.
I did like the short story that I read. It was pretty dark and suspenseful. I don't feel like I got a good grasp on the characters ... but I do look forward to reading more.
I did like the short story that I read. It was pretty dark and suspenseful. I don't feel like I got a good grasp on the characters ... but I do look forward to reading more.
January 15, 2012
Please feel free to read my review at Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews.
did-not-finish
September 29, 2012Started for a challenge, dn't finish intime and the book just wasn't holding my interest so I set it down. May pick up again.
Want to read
February 23, 2012Kindle Freebie 2.23.12
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