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Rulers of Darkness #3
Caressed by a Crimson Moon
Consumed by madness and tormented by dark memories of blood and death, Hadrian Lucretius, King of the Validus Clan, has returned after living in self-imposed exile for nearly three hundred and fifty years.
To maintain peace with the vampires, Eva Maldonado is offered as a sacrifice to the crazed vampire king by her father, the alpha of the Silveria Shifter Pack. Hadrian’s reputation is both legendary and lethal; he is ruthless, bloodthirsty, lusty, and soulless. When Eva arrives at the ancient fortress high in the Carpathian Mountains, she is shocked to find a ravaged man with dark burning eyes filled with loneliness and dangerous desire.
Would she be his lover…or his prey? His savior…or his victim? Would Hadrian lure her into madness or would their perilous passion be their redemption?
To maintain peace with the vampires, Eva Maldonado is offered as a sacrifice to the crazed vampire king by her father, the alpha of the Silveria Shifter Pack. Hadrian’s reputation is both legendary and lethal; he is ruthless, bloodthirsty, lusty, and soulless. When Eva arrives at the ancient fortress high in the Carpathian Mountains, she is shocked to find a ravaged man with dark burning eyes filled with loneliness and dangerous desire.
Would she be his lover…or his prey? His savior…or his victim? Would Hadrian lure her into madness or would their perilous passion be their redemption?
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2013
About the author
Amanda J. Greene
13 books334 followersAmanda J. Greene is the author of the captivating Rulers of Darkness and the enticing Under Realm Assassins series. Fans of Nalini Singh’s, Gena Showalter, and J.R. Ward will fall in love with Ms. Greene’s dangerously sexy heroes and strong, kick your teeth in heroines.
Between working full time in higher education and family life, she finds time to write and create detailed worlds with exciting characters for her ravenous readers.
"Amanda's vampires are seriously sexy and I can't get enough!" - Kristina's Books & More
Join me on
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amanda-...
Twitter: AmandaJGreene1 (https://twitter.com/amandajgreene1)
Instagram: amandaj.greene (https://www.instagram.com/amandaj.gre...)
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Amanda-J.-Green...
Website: http://amandajgreene.blogspot.com
Between working full time in higher education and family life, she finds time to write and create detailed worlds with exciting characters for her ravenous readers.
"Amanda's vampires are seriously sexy and I can't get enough!" - Kristina's Books & More
Join me on
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amanda-...
Twitter: AmandaJGreene1 (https://twitter.com/amandajgreene1)
Instagram: amandaj.greene (https://www.instagram.com/amandaj.gre...)
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Amanda-J.-Green...
Website: http://amandajgreene.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 17, 2013
4 out of 5 Stars
Alright, now I was going to just give this one 3.5 half stars but I must say that the last 3 chapters and epilogue convinced me otherwise.
This story intrigued me right out of the gate. It has the mystery the substance. The beautiful but fearfully wounded soul of a hot lead hero and the perfect balance of beauty, grace, innocence and strength in the lead heroine.
What did wear on my nerves a bit, was that these two spent way too much time in their own heads and not quite enough interaction with each other for the 1st half of the book. This made the process of getting to know them and watching them come together seem tedious at times. Their thoughts, concerns, and fears became quite repetitious and this caused the story to slow down for me. However, when they finally do get the ball rolling Hadrian and Eva's chemistry is white hot. Off the chain intense with an added layer of the sweet, pure, consuming romantic type of love you want and need to see between these type of characters. But I do wish there was more info concerning Eva's parents. Especially her father. His motives etc.. You will see why. This angle I felt was left in the wind some where. I wished it were fleshed out more. This one has a great ending and a very interesting lead into the next book.
This was a very sexy, erotic, entertaining read, and I would recommend it. Happy reading :)
Alright, now I was going to just give this one 3.5 half stars but I must say that the last 3 chapters and epilogue convinced me otherwise.
This story intrigued me right out of the gate. It has the mystery the substance. The beautiful but fearfully wounded soul of a hot lead hero and the perfect balance of beauty, grace, innocence and strength in the lead heroine.
What did wear on my nerves a bit, was that these two spent way too much time in their own heads and not quite enough interaction with each other for the 1st half of the book. This made the process of getting to know them and watching them come together seem tedious at times. Their thoughts, concerns, and fears became quite repetitious and this caused the story to slow down for me. However, when they finally do get the ball rolling Hadrian and Eva's chemistry is white hot. Off the chain intense with an added layer of the sweet, pure, consuming romantic type of love you want and need to see between these type of characters. But I do wish there was more info concerning Eva's parents. Especially her father. His motives etc.. You will see why. This angle I felt was left in the wind some where. I wished it were fleshed out more. This one has a great ending and a very interesting lead into the next book.
This was a very sexy, erotic, entertaining read, and I would recommend it. Happy reading :)
February 9, 2013
Originally reviewed at http://prufreads.blogspot.com/
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
"A feral beast haunts this castle and...that beast is me."
~Hadrian Lucretius, mad Vampire King of the Validus Clan
**Please note ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**
Eva Maldonado is a disgrace to her Silveria Shifter Pack. As the bastard half-breed daughter of their alpha Arsenio, Eva is seen as an abomination and is often beaten and starved simply because of her parentage. When Arsenio is challenged by Black Knight Falcon Kenwrec to hold up his end of the peace treaty between his pack and the vampires, the answer is an easy one. With his own dark motives, he sacrifices Eva who is now to be a ward to the 'mad king', Hadrian Lucretius.
[image error]
King to the Validus Clan exiled himself over 300 years ago, unable to keep his throne. His mind is as shattered and broken as the windows and mirrors, whose reflection he can't seem escape. His descent into madness has been a painful one. Memories and visions of torture and blood lust accompany the voices and blood curdling screams inside his head. Hadrian is damaged, lethal and while no angel, he's fallen, to his knees, broken.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon, the 3rd installment of the Rulers of Darkness series, made my heart hurt. There are characters that you follow and sometimes, just sometimes, there are characters that you feel . You feel their pain, their anxiety, self loathing and triumphs. Hadrian was that character for me. Ms. Greene ripped his heart, mind, body and soul wide open, leaving for you, the reader, no emotion untapped. The wordplay flowed effortlessly, keeping me drawn in and anxious for more.
Before laying eyes on Falcon, Eva had never actually seen a vampire before. That doesn't mean she hasn't heard the rumors, the stories of the monster, the mad king who will drain her, slowly, painfully. Is Eva escaping one hell only to be thrown into another? There is no slow burn here. The whirlwind begins almost immediately and can I just say, by chapter 4...yeah, that. There are secrets and revelations, tests of willpower and all consuming passion that is raw, sensual and downright primal, making for a thrilling ride.
Fans of the series will be thrilled to get a better look at Hadrian and Falcon's 'bromance' and what lays ahead for my favorite Black Knight. Silvie is a fiestly little witch who is quite the puppet master and appearances by other characters that together, help make this series what it is, and is coming to be. This is, by far, the best of the series to date and with an intriguing ending, leading to book #4, this series h. The Rulers of Darkness and the Black Knights at their side make for a dark, sexy, lethal clan you'll want to sink your own teeth into!
For more, visit amandajgreene.com
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
"A feral beast haunts this castle and...that beast is me."
~Hadrian Lucretius, mad Vampire King of the Validus Clan
**Please note ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**
Eva Maldonado is a disgrace to her Silveria Shifter Pack. As the bastard half-breed daughter of their alpha Arsenio, Eva is seen as an abomination and is often beaten and starved simply because of her parentage. When Arsenio is challenged by Black Knight Falcon Kenwrec to hold up his end of the peace treaty between his pack and the vampires, the answer is an easy one. With his own dark motives, he sacrifices Eva who is now to be a ward to the 'mad king', Hadrian Lucretius.
[image error]
King to the Validus Clan exiled himself over 300 years ago, unable to keep his throne. His mind is as shattered and broken as the windows and mirrors, whose reflection he can't seem escape. His descent into madness has been a painful one. Memories and visions of torture and blood lust accompany the voices and blood curdling screams inside his head. Hadrian is damaged, lethal and while no angel, he's fallen, to his knees, broken.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon, the 3rd installment of the Rulers of Darkness series, made my heart hurt. There are characters that you follow and sometimes, just sometimes, there are characters that you feel . You feel their pain, their anxiety, self loathing and triumphs. Hadrian was that character for me. Ms. Greene ripped his heart, mind, body and soul wide open, leaving for you, the reader, no emotion untapped. The wordplay flowed effortlessly, keeping me drawn in and anxious for more.
Before laying eyes on Falcon, Eva had never actually seen a vampire before. That doesn't mean she hasn't heard the rumors, the stories of the monster, the mad king who will drain her, slowly, painfully. Is Eva escaping one hell only to be thrown into another? There is no slow burn here. The whirlwind begins almost immediately and can I just say, by chapter 4...yeah, that. There are secrets and revelations, tests of willpower and all consuming passion that is raw, sensual and downright primal, making for a thrilling ride.
Fans of the series will be thrilled to get a better look at Hadrian and Falcon's 'bromance' and what lays ahead for my favorite Black Knight. Silvie is a fiestly little witch who is quite the puppet master and appearances by other characters that together, help make this series what it is, and is coming to be. This is, by far, the best of the series to date and with an intriguing ending, leading to book #4, this series h. The Rulers of Darkness and the Black Knights at their side make for a dark, sexy, lethal clan you'll want to sink your own teeth into!
For more, visit amandajgreene.com
February 26, 2013
If you want hott, it’s got hott
The third Rulers of Darkness tale presents us with a new hero and heroine. For centuries Hadrian Lucretius, Vampire King of the Validus Clan, has been cursed with dark and violent memories of his past. He’s practically earned the reputation of the seven deadly sins all wrapped into one. Eva Maldonado, daughter of the Silveria Shifter Pack’s alpha, has been offered to him as a gift in hopes of maintaining peace between vampires and their kind. Whisked away to the secluded fortress high in the Carpathian Mountains, Eva senses more beyond his frightening veneer. And he senses more beyond her broken spirit. Drawn to one another like moths to a flame, will they be each other’s saviors or ultimate undoing?
You definitely get what you expect based on the synopsis and the cover. I felt like this one teetered on the erotica line a little more than its predecessors which felt more like your usual paranormal romance. The chemistry between Eva and Hadrian is very strong and the love scenes are well done, if gratuitous after a while. There’s a lot of unresolved sexual tension that may become frustrating for the reader, but that’s become the norm in this genre. I liked the appearances of characters from the prior novels. Though a paranormal romance, it allows everything to tie in to the current story a bit better.
When it comes to this series, I think the first one remains my personal favorite. I enjoyed the regency feel and I felt like the focus leaned more towards the story and plot progression. I’d likely rank this one second though. Their secluded setting provided a similar feel.
This is quality paranormal romance. The writing, atmosphere, the angst, and the dynamic between the hero and heroine are all quite good. It’s just a matter of your tastes and your mood. I’m urban fantasy fan first so other details tend to catch my attention and I find myself wanting those fleshed out and explored more. Greene presents a supernatural world that can be pretty complicated between the various species all vying for control.
The books are standalones, but you definitely see glimpses of potential lead characters for the subsequent novels. I look forward to the sequels.
*ARC provided by the author.
*Review also posted to Amazon.
The third Rulers of Darkness tale presents us with a new hero and heroine. For centuries Hadrian Lucretius, Vampire King of the Validus Clan, has been cursed with dark and violent memories of his past. He’s practically earned the reputation of the seven deadly sins all wrapped into one. Eva Maldonado, daughter of the Silveria Shifter Pack’s alpha, has been offered to him as a gift in hopes of maintaining peace between vampires and their kind. Whisked away to the secluded fortress high in the Carpathian Mountains, Eva senses more beyond his frightening veneer. And he senses more beyond her broken spirit. Drawn to one another like moths to a flame, will they be each other’s saviors or ultimate undoing?
You definitely get what you expect based on the synopsis and the cover. I felt like this one teetered on the erotica line a little more than its predecessors which felt more like your usual paranormal romance. The chemistry between Eva and Hadrian is very strong and the love scenes are well done, if gratuitous after a while. There’s a lot of unresolved sexual tension that may become frustrating for the reader, but that’s become the norm in this genre. I liked the appearances of characters from the prior novels. Though a paranormal romance, it allows everything to tie in to the current story a bit better.
When it comes to this series, I think the first one remains my personal favorite. I enjoyed the regency feel and I felt like the focus leaned more towards the story and plot progression. I’d likely rank this one second though. Their secluded setting provided a similar feel.
This is quality paranormal romance. The writing, atmosphere, the angst, and the dynamic between the hero and heroine are all quite good. It’s just a matter of your tastes and your mood. I’m urban fantasy fan first so other details tend to catch my attention and I find myself wanting those fleshed out and explored more. Greene presents a supernatural world that can be pretty complicated between the various species all vying for control.
The books are standalones, but you definitely see glimpses of potential lead characters for the subsequent novels. I look forward to the sequels.
*ARC provided by the author.
*Review also posted to Amazon.
February 18, 2013
Hadrian has been battling his inner demon for centuries but with the help of his second he has been fighting back the darkness and trying to make himself the king his people need to lead them.
When Eva arrives at the castle everything changes. Just her close proximity threatens his sanity. He is drawn to her but his inner demon wants her on a deadly level that may endanger her life. Even though his mind tells him he should stay away he can't. There is just something about this luscious woman that draws him, soothes him.
Eva after her mothers death she was taken to her fathers pack, but being a half breed she was abused and beaten on a daily basis since the moment she arrived. So when the vampire knight showed up and demanded a daughter from her father she was not surprised when he offered her the half breed to the knight to be a ward of the mad vampire king.
Excited to finally leave the pack but worried about the rumored crazy vampire king, Eva was not going to let this get her down she would escape first chance she got and live a free life. But once she met the vampire king she was soo enthralled by him the thought of leaving him caused her actually pain.
Every time Eva thought she might be getting threw to Hadrian, he would pull away and act like he didn't want her, but his body told her he did. He reacted to her on the same lust filled level she reacted to him. Some how she must convince him to let down his guard and kiss her.
This story was excellent, I think it is my favorite so far of the series. It is unnecessary to have read the first two before this one to enjoy it. The first two would give you're background on other mentioned characters but is not necessary to understand and enjoy.
The heat that flows between Eva and Hadrian is soo extremely hot one might think my kindle would explode. They have such a magnetic pull towards each other, one that Hadrian tries so hard to ignore which only makes the attraction all the more hot when they come together.
The overall story is entertaining and fun. I enjoyed the whole story from start to finish. I had a hard time putting it down to do normal day to day stuff. My only complaint is that I wish that the reasons behind the pack alpha taking Eva were explained a little better, i felt a lot of questions went unanswered. The mystery behind her heritage wasn't explained enough for me. Then the ending was so abrupt it left me hanging on for more. Either way I would recommend this book whether you have read the first two or not.
- Athenna
When Eva arrives at the castle everything changes. Just her close proximity threatens his sanity. He is drawn to her but his inner demon wants her on a deadly level that may endanger her life. Even though his mind tells him he should stay away he can't. There is just something about this luscious woman that draws him, soothes him.
Eva after her mothers death she was taken to her fathers pack, but being a half breed she was abused and beaten on a daily basis since the moment she arrived. So when the vampire knight showed up and demanded a daughter from her father she was not surprised when he offered her the half breed to the knight to be a ward of the mad vampire king.
Excited to finally leave the pack but worried about the rumored crazy vampire king, Eva was not going to let this get her down she would escape first chance she got and live a free life. But once she met the vampire king she was soo enthralled by him the thought of leaving him caused her actually pain.
Every time Eva thought she might be getting threw to Hadrian, he would pull away and act like he didn't want her, but his body told her he did. He reacted to her on the same lust filled level she reacted to him. Some how she must convince him to let down his guard and kiss her.
This story was excellent, I think it is my favorite so far of the series. It is unnecessary to have read the first two before this one to enjoy it. The first two would give you're background on other mentioned characters but is not necessary to understand and enjoy.
The heat that flows between Eva and Hadrian is soo extremely hot one might think my kindle would explode. They have such a magnetic pull towards each other, one that Hadrian tries so hard to ignore which only makes the attraction all the more hot when they come together.
The overall story is entertaining and fun. I enjoyed the whole story from start to finish. I had a hard time putting it down to do normal day to day stuff. My only complaint is that I wish that the reasons behind the pack alpha taking Eva were explained a little better, i felt a lot of questions went unanswered. The mystery behind her heritage wasn't explained enough for me. Then the ending was so abrupt it left me hanging on for more. Either way I would recommend this book whether you have read the first two or not.
- Athenna
April 23, 2013
Love this book... and the previous one about Dimitri.. :)
Hadrian Lucretius the 'Mad' King of Validus Clan, in process of reclaim his Throne after 350 years of self-exiled (not to forget about his handsomeness and his steel hard body.. the word Mad just evaporating :D)
Eva Maldonado, the half-breed of Jaguar Shifter and more.. being the lowest of the pack for the last 9 years, become an offered sacrifice by his own father to fulfilled the old pact between the Pack and the Validus Clan.
Their first encounter was kinda hot and bothered.. When Eva's Drive made the first appearance without her concious (and I really liked their second and so on encounter).
I really loved how the developed their connection, revealed how Eva is basicly his redemption, his destined eternal partner in any sense. Eva being the straight forward one about their connection, she is one braved girl.
Sometimes it ticked me how Hadrian tried to pushed Eva away with his false sense of her wish to be free..
And his reaction about their bonding, the mark on their wrists, was priceless..
I just glad that they found their misunderstanding right in time.
The whole story about this vampire clan just exciting... their long existence, their long lonely life, finally fulfilled with the new found love in their true mate...
And there always a good feeling and blissedful relieved when at the end comes HEA
Hadrian Lucretius the 'Mad' King of Validus Clan, in process of reclaim his Throne after 350 years of self-exiled (not to forget about his handsomeness and his steel hard body.. the word Mad just evaporating :D)
Eva Maldonado, the half-breed of Jaguar Shifter and more.. being the lowest of the pack for the last 9 years, become an offered sacrifice by his own father to fulfilled the old pact between the Pack and the Validus Clan.
Their first encounter was kinda hot and bothered.. When Eva's Drive made the first appearance without her concious (and I really liked their second and so on encounter).
I really loved how the developed their connection, revealed how Eva is basicly his redemption, his destined eternal partner in any sense. Eva being the straight forward one about their connection, she is one braved girl.
Sometimes it ticked me how Hadrian tried to pushed Eva away with his false sense of her wish to be free..
And his reaction about their bonding, the mark on their wrists, was priceless..
I just glad that they found their misunderstanding right in time.
The whole story about this vampire clan just exciting... their long existence, their long lonely life, finally fulfilled with the new found love in their true mate...
And there always a good feeling and blissedful relieved when at the end comes HEA
February 5, 2018
I dived into this book one cold Sunday afternoon and finished it at 1.10 am, had to see how it finished!
Eva and Hadrians story pulled me in very quickly and I loved how most part of the book was about their developing relationship, the sexual tension was something else.
Eva is a half-breed, badly treated by her father's pack. Now she's being sent off to live with a vampire a mad vampire at that!
Hadrian has been in a hiding from his pack for a long time, he has many demons messing with his head. He has decided to come back to civilisation and reclaim his throne, just at the same time a new ward is coming to stay - Eva.
As I said the story focuses on Eva and Hadrian and the many issues surrounding them, there is a back story to the vampire world they live in, but this book can easily be read as a standalone.
Eva is a tough cookie and goes after what she wants. Hadrian is so guarded, he wants Eva very much but he keeps disappearing when things heat up between them, yes its frustrating but it certainly builds the sexual tension.
I have to say Falcon is very likable as a characther, he isn't a king but wow his story would be amazing.
I really enjoyed this book, loved Hadrian and Eva and glad they got there happy ever after.
4.5 yummy vampire stars
Eva and Hadrians story pulled me in very quickly and I loved how most part of the book was about their developing relationship, the sexual tension was something else.
Eva is a half-breed, badly treated by her father's pack. Now she's being sent off to live with a vampire a mad vampire at that!
“A monster haunts these halls, little one,” he hissed. “A bloodthirsty, half crazed demon that likes to make snacks out of little ladies like you.”
Hadrian has been in a hiding from his pack for a long time, he has many demons messing with his head. He has decided to come back to civilisation and reclaim his throne, just at the same time a new ward is coming to stay - Eva.
As I said the story focuses on Eva and Hadrian and the many issues surrounding them, there is a back story to the vampire world they live in, but this book can easily be read as a standalone.
Eva is a tough cookie and goes after what she wants. Hadrian is so guarded, he wants Eva very much but he keeps disappearing when things heat up between them, yes its frustrating but it certainly builds the sexual tension.
“Vampire,” she bit out as if it were a curse, “I want you to take me. I want you to drive your cock into me again and again. I want you to make me come so hard I scream.”
“Eva,” he rasped. “Last chance.” He towered over her, a dark warrior king. Her dark warrior king. “I intend to have you.”
I have to say Falcon is very likable as a characther, he isn't a king but wow his story would be amazing.
I really enjoyed this book, loved Hadrian and Eva and glad they got there happy ever after.
4.5 yummy vampire stars
August 1, 2018
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
July 11, 2013
“I do not want you to leave. Please…tell me what I can do to…make you stay. I will do anything....Gods, Eva. I cannot lose you. Please, tell me what I can—”
“Just ask me, Hadrian.”
“Will you stay?”
3.5 Stars
The third book in the Rulers of Darkness series tells the story of Hadrian and Eva. I enjoyed their story but there some times that I felt that things (situations between the main characters) were repeated...
Despite that fact, it was easy enough to be captured by this book.
In this book we get to see characters from the previous book of the series such as, Dimitri and Kerstyn, Dorian and Victoria, Sonya, Falcon, Silvie and last but not least Gannon...
So, so far so good!
And in case you're wondering why I gave this book 3.5 Stars, the answer is simple!
This book is a cliffhanger!
I think (strongly believe) that the next book will be about Sonya and maybe (pls be pls be) Falcon?????
But I really don't know since
I was wrong....(Thank God!!!!!)
Apparently we have a title..
Caressed by Shadows
Sonya and Falcon's story - Release date to be announced.(pityyyyyy)
Here's what the author said at her website:
UPDATE: I will be revealing the cover of Caressed by Shadows (Rulers of Darkness #4) on August 2nd, along with the book description, book trailer, and tentative release date.
First paragraph of Caressed by Shadows:
The humans knew nothing of the world they lived in, blissfully ignorant of the creatures that surrounded them, vampires, shape-shifters and witches. Each appeared to be no different than their mortal counter parts. Falcon was one of those creatures, a vampire. His lungs expanded, filling with useless oxygen and his heart beat with a steady pulse that heated his flesh and colored his cheeks. Oh, yes, his kind could blend in seamlessly amongst their prey, their victims easily seduced by their otherworldly allure...
Plus some teasers:
Teaser #1: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
Teaser #2: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
Teaser #3: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
I can't wait for August 2nd.....
First posted on: http://sofialovesreading.blogspot.gr/...
“Just ask me, Hadrian.”
“Will you stay?”
3.5 Stars
The third book in the Rulers of Darkness series tells the story of Hadrian and Eva. I enjoyed their story but there some times that I felt that things (situations between the main characters) were repeated...
Despite that fact, it was easy enough to be captured by this book.
In this book we get to see characters from the previous book of the series such as, Dimitri and Kerstyn, Dorian and Victoria, Sonya, Falcon, Silvie and last but not least Gannon...
So, so far so good!
And in case you're wondering why I gave this book 3.5 Stars, the answer is simple!
This book is a cliffhanger!
I think (strongly believe) that the next book will be about Sonya and maybe (pls be pls be) Falcon?????
I was wrong....(Thank God!!!!!)
Apparently we have a title..
Caressed by Shadows
Sonya and Falcon's story - Release date to be announced.(pityyyyyy)
Here's what the author said at her website:
UPDATE: I will be revealing the cover of Caressed by Shadows (Rulers of Darkness #4) on August 2nd, along with the book description, book trailer, and tentative release date.
First paragraph of Caressed by Shadows:
The humans knew nothing of the world they lived in, blissfully ignorant of the creatures that surrounded them, vampires, shape-shifters and witches. Each appeared to be no different than their mortal counter parts. Falcon was one of those creatures, a vampire. His lungs expanded, filling with useless oxygen and his heart beat with a steady pulse that heated his flesh and colored his cheeks. Oh, yes, his kind could blend in seamlessly amongst their prey, their victims easily seduced by their otherworldly allure...
Plus some teasers:
Teaser #1: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
Teaser #2: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
Teaser #3: http://www.amandajgreene.blogspot.gr/...
I can't wait for August 2nd.....
First posted on: http://sofialovesreading.blogspot.gr/...
February 17, 2013
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the 3rd installment of the Rulers of Darkness series and my first novel by author, Amanda J. Greene. I hoped to read them in order because I had a feeling they were going to be good, so I'll just have to go re-read the series so I can get the back story and I can enjoy this how it was fully intended. Either way, I'm thrilled to have started this series, finally.
Eva's a half-breed shape-shifter who was taken to live a tortuous life with her father and his pack at the age of 17 after her mothers death. How she was treated was horrid. Beaten, humiliated and looked upon as nothing. A life of being degraded and left empty.
So when her no good "father" practically hands her over as a sacrifice to a vampire who's reputation is lethal, she leaves without a fight. Better than staying under her terrible fathers rule. Right?
Hadrian, who is referred as the 'mad king' is the definition of a tortured hero. He's been fighting his demons for centuries and it's left him half mad. I know I say this a lot, but he's definitely my new favorite male character. I can't get enough of him or this novel!
"His gaze turned sharp then his eyes narrowed. The
temperature of the room dropped as shadows descended upon his
face.
“Perhaps I’m not making myself clear,” he said, his voice
hard. “Or,” his gaze traveled over her, studying her from head to
toe, “you want me this way, on the verge of losing control.”
She swallowed hard. His heated, predatory gaze fixed on
her as his voice deepened. Dangerous sexual intent burned in his
eyes as he downed his liquor, savoring it as if imagining it was
her blood. His eyes roamed her body. A pure masculine smile
softened his features, as his fangs grew longer.
Eva gasped. God, she wanted this vampire. She had to use
every ounce of her rapidly depleting self-control not to throw
herself at him.
“Danger,” he grated past his fangs, “it excites you.”"
I fully enjoyed her writing style and the world Ms Greene has created. I have to remark on the Beauty and the Beast feel to the novel. The Beast in the West Wing, which is off limits, *winks*, the french 'butler', the library.. etc. I really enjoyed it!
All the characters were fitting and flowed well. I loved the secondary characters, especially Falcon and Sonya. I'm already begging for their story. She really knows how to leave you hanging! *winks*
Over all, a fantastic read! I highly recommend this emotionally charged novel to all paranormal romance lovers. I'm going to be reading book's 1 & 2 asap. I want more and I bet you will too!
February 6, 2017
Caressed by a Crimson Moon
I was given this book in place of an honest review. This is the third book in the "Rulers of Darkness" series. This story takes place surrounding Hadrian the Vampire King who threw himself into exile, because he was going crazy; and Eva a halfbreed shifter. Eva was the bastard daughter of the Alpha of her shifter pack, taken nine years ago after the death of her mother. She was treated poorly because of her halfbreed lineage. Hadrian who has just recently came out of exile and is preparing for his descent back into his clans world, wants to honor a treaty made three hundred and fifty years ago with the shifters, has Falcon go and claim what is rightfully his. The alpha isn't to thrilled about this scenario and refuses to send one of his pure looks daughters to the mad king, so instead he sends Eva his halfbreed daughter, in hopes that the mad king will take care of his dirty work for him. Instead of Hadrian killing Eva like the Alpha was hoping for, he finds something else in Eva.....hope.
As the other two books I have read in this series this one didn't fail to suck me in. However, this one was just a little different than the others. Because one: There is something more to Eva that meets the eye; two: instead of some huge raging battle being prepared for throughout the book, the big battle is actually the battles that Hadrian has to face about himself, and the secrets that are unfolded with Eva. Now don't get me wrong there is a battle scene in this book, but it's pretty bleh compared to the others. However, this book adds a few more pieces that will be unfolded in further books, that of course will keep you hanging on the edge of your seat and keep you wanting more. It sure has me, and I cannot wait to read more of this series.
I was given this book in place of an honest review. This is the third book in the "Rulers of Darkness" series. This story takes place surrounding Hadrian the Vampire King who threw himself into exile, because he was going crazy; and Eva a halfbreed shifter. Eva was the bastard daughter of the Alpha of her shifter pack, taken nine years ago after the death of her mother. She was treated poorly because of her halfbreed lineage. Hadrian who has just recently came out of exile and is preparing for his descent back into his clans world, wants to honor a treaty made three hundred and fifty years ago with the shifters, has Falcon go and claim what is rightfully his. The alpha isn't to thrilled about this scenario and refuses to send one of his pure looks daughters to the mad king, so instead he sends Eva his halfbreed daughter, in hopes that the mad king will take care of his dirty work for him. Instead of Hadrian killing Eva like the Alpha was hoping for, he finds something else in Eva.....hope.
As the other two books I have read in this series this one didn't fail to suck me in. However, this one was just a little different than the others. Because one: There is something more to Eva that meets the eye; two: instead of some huge raging battle being prepared for throughout the book, the big battle is actually the battles that Hadrian has to face about himself, and the secrets that are unfolded with Eva. Now don't get me wrong there is a battle scene in this book, but it's pretty bleh compared to the others. However, this book adds a few more pieces that will be unfolded in further books, that of course will keep you hanging on the edge of your seat and keep you wanting more. It sure has me, and I cannot wait to read more of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2017
Safety -
This one was just okay. Not much really going on besides sex and their relationship. Needed more plot. Three stars but I'm taking one away because of the safety issues above.
This one was just okay. Not much really going on besides sex and their relationship. Needed more plot. Three stars but I'm taking one away because of the safety issues above.
February 18, 2013
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the 3rd in the Rulers of Darkness Series, It can be read as a stand alone novel.
Amanda J Greene has done an excellent job in world building for her Rulers of Darkness series. She integrates many different paranormal species into her world and provides you with the information to understand how they are unique and what binds them together in the world.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the story of Mad King Hadrian and a shifter half breed named Eva. We journey from the jungles of Brazil to the mountains of Estonia as we follow the story of Eva being sent as ward to the King to cement a treaty to the coronation ceremony of King Hadrian retaking his throne.
The story is rich in detail while trying to maintain a bit of mystery as it unfolds, we find that things aren't always as they appear. Eva is far stronger than even she thinks she is and Hadrian has plenty enough reason for his madness but Eva sees beyond the demon and into the soul of the man.
This is also an erotic romance with plenty of heat and tender moments as well. Eva and Hadrian burn up the sheets or really with the claws they have shred the sheets through the better part of the book.
I found the dialog in parts of the book to be repetitive and at times a little prosaic but over all it was a good read.
Amanda J Greene has done an excellent job in world building for her Rulers of Darkness series. She integrates many different paranormal species into her world and provides you with the information to understand how they are unique and what binds them together in the world.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the story of Mad King Hadrian and a shifter half breed named Eva. We journey from the jungles of Brazil to the mountains of Estonia as we follow the story of Eva being sent as ward to the King to cement a treaty to the coronation ceremony of King Hadrian retaking his throne.
The story is rich in detail while trying to maintain a bit of mystery as it unfolds, we find that things aren't always as they appear. Eva is far stronger than even she thinks she is and Hadrian has plenty enough reason for his madness but Eva sees beyond the demon and into the soul of the man.
This is also an erotic romance with plenty of heat and tender moments as well. Eva and Hadrian burn up the sheets or really with the claws they have shred the sheets through the better part of the book.
I found the dialog in parts of the book to be repetitive and at times a little prosaic but over all it was a good read.
October 26, 2014
Greene takes her world of vampire kings and true mates to the next level with this one. She weaves this into a seamless and gripping tale that I won’t be able to forget. Suspense & romance vie with lust & self-doubt in the perfect combination to keep you hooked. Being a visual author, Greene makes it very easy for her audience to picture each and every aspect of their surroundings. It is so easy to picture yourself right there alongside the characters.
I love how we get to meet the shifters in this instalment. For once, they aren’t the good guys, nor are they the bad guys. They are a very culturally bound group that will definitely spark some controversy. Half-breeds are also different here. We (as readers of paranormal stories) are so used to shifter DNA being dominant that the way Greene develops it is surprisingly riveting & extremely well done, it not only makes her characters stand out, but draws you to them.
This was an exciting & exhilarating story that I definitely couldn’t put down. I can’t wait to read more from this riveting author.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I love how we get to meet the shifters in this instalment. For once, they aren’t the good guys, nor are they the bad guys. They are a very culturally bound group that will definitely spark some controversy. Half-breeds are also different here. We (as readers of paranormal stories) are so used to shifter DNA being dominant that the way Greene develops it is surprisingly riveting & extremely well done, it not only makes her characters stand out, but draws you to them.
This was an exciting & exhilarating story that I definitely couldn’t put down. I can’t wait to read more from this riveting author.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2020
Safety:
August 18, 2017
Probably my favorite of the Rulers of Darkness books. So much angst and pain. Hot brooding vamp, abused and confused shifter girl with an obscure background. They struggle to fight their attraction - but to no avail. What is meant to be is meant to me. She is the only one who can soothe his beast and he is the only one she wants.
March 3, 2013
Caressed by a Crimson Moon brings the reader a fabulous continuation of the Rulers of Darkness series. Ms. Greene brings her characters to life, and allows the reader access to the inner thoughts in a way that respects both the reader and characters. Hadrian, the hero, is DEFINITELY on the list of favorite heroes for 2013!
I think one of my favorite aspects of Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the utter self-loathing both Eva and Hadrian have for themselves. I mean, -zero- self-esteem for these two! The transformation of each character, while incomplete by the end of the title, was a fabulous glimpse at mending a wounded psyhe. I think that I enjoyed watching the inner turmoil of each character change and morph as much as I enjoyed the interaction between the characters. HEAT INDEX: 4.5 out of 5. However, this is because anticipation and the 'pre-game show' is extremely erotic.
One of the things that I felt was interesting about Caressed by a Crimson Moon was the sparse cast of characters. Seriously. We had Falcon, Hadrian's friend and second-in-command. There was a chef and a butler. We caught glimpses of Dorian and Dmitri, as well as their mates, as well as Sonya, and the Shaw Healer-in-Training. Not a lot of characters. There was no movement for the other characters, except at the end – Sonya and Falcon – I'm guessing they'll be the axis for the next title. And... I. Can't. WAIT!!! I adore Falcon almost as much as I do Hadrian. Fans of Nalini Singh's Psy/Changeling series, Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld, and J.R. Ward's BDB are in for a treat – this Rulers of Darkness title seems to blend them together in a manner that is simply delicious!
Eva is a truly interesting character. Raised to believe that she was half jaguar shifter and half human, Eva has always felt like an outcast to her jaguar clan. When her mom died, Eva was immersed in the world of her father, and their pack didn't have any use for remaining current & relevent in technology. She was also treated as though she were an abomination, and says so in Caressed by a Crimson Moon. She endured nine years of abuse-by-neglect, at the hands of her father. On the other side, Eva called herself a half-breed, and dismissed her thoughts as unimportant. She felt she wasn't deserving of happiness because she had been made to believe so for many years. This was totally evident in the way she thought of herself, and the way she didn't believe that there was any way that Hadrian would want her. I found it interesting, after a major event for her character, that she still didn't believe that Hadrian felt anything for her. I must admit, there were several times I wanted to tell her, “Suck it up, Buttercup. The self-pity thing isn't working for you.” Fortunately, it seems as though she hopped off the Pity Train by the end of the title, when Hadrian needed her support. Yay, you!
Hadrian. Rawr! He's awake and ready to lead his clan through rebuilding and keep the peace. Since he was in self-imposed exile for 350-ish years, Hadrian is a bit behind the times when it comes to technology and social trends and norms. However, he's ready to kick-ass and take names later, if that is what needs to happen! When I found out **why** Hadrian is so morose, my heart broke for him. Feeling responsible for someone's death is never easy. Much more difficult when that someone is your TWIN BROTHER! I'm glad I felt like that was resolved by the time we reached the end of the story. I don't think I could have handled the continuation of that storyline. What I'm not entirely cool with is the demon which is Hadrian's vampire. Previously, vamps were created by a bite. Although, Hadrian is possessed by a demon, and it was implied that the demon caused the vampirism. That part of the plot confused me a little, but it was easy to take the leap of faith and simply go with it. **VampBard, shut up the constant analysis and enjoy the damn book!** Long story short, the demon played nice, and Hadrian got his anger issues under control. As matter of fact, his middle name should be CONTROL. The compassion I had for Hadrian throughout the title was immense. I cried, people. Giant, crocodile tears, when I found out why Hadrian hated himself so much. Another round of tears when Hadrian 'said goodbye' to his brother. Seriously. I've warned you. Have tissues at-the-ready. Ultimately, this vamp who felt himself unworthy of love discovered that the true meaning of love is to accept someone as they are, and not expect change as a condition of a relationship. This is one of the reasons I fell in total lurve with Hadrian.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is my favorite Rulers of Darkness title to-date. The third book in the series has me chomping at the bit for the next installment.
I think one of my favorite aspects of Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the utter self-loathing both Eva and Hadrian have for themselves. I mean, -zero- self-esteem for these two! The transformation of each character, while incomplete by the end of the title, was a fabulous glimpse at mending a wounded psyhe. I think that I enjoyed watching the inner turmoil of each character change and morph as much as I enjoyed the interaction between the characters. HEAT INDEX: 4.5 out of 5. However, this is because anticipation and the 'pre-game show' is extremely erotic.
One of the things that I felt was interesting about Caressed by a Crimson Moon was the sparse cast of characters. Seriously. We had Falcon, Hadrian's friend and second-in-command. There was a chef and a butler. We caught glimpses of Dorian and Dmitri, as well as their mates, as well as Sonya, and the Shaw Healer-in-Training. Not a lot of characters. There was no movement for the other characters, except at the end – Sonya and Falcon – I'm guessing they'll be the axis for the next title. And... I. Can't. WAIT!!! I adore Falcon almost as much as I do Hadrian. Fans of Nalini Singh's Psy/Changeling series, Gena Showalter's Lords of the Underworld, and J.R. Ward's BDB are in for a treat – this Rulers of Darkness title seems to blend them together in a manner that is simply delicious!
Eva is a truly interesting character. Raised to believe that she was half jaguar shifter and half human, Eva has always felt like an outcast to her jaguar clan. When her mom died, Eva was immersed in the world of her father, and their pack didn't have any use for remaining current & relevent in technology. She was also treated as though she were an abomination, and says so in Caressed by a Crimson Moon. She endured nine years of abuse-by-neglect, at the hands of her father. On the other side, Eva called herself a half-breed, and dismissed her thoughts as unimportant. She felt she wasn't deserving of happiness because she had been made to believe so for many years. This was totally evident in the way she thought of herself, and the way she didn't believe that there was any way that Hadrian would want her. I found it interesting, after a major event for her character, that she still didn't believe that Hadrian felt anything for her. I must admit, there were several times I wanted to tell her, “Suck it up, Buttercup. The self-pity thing isn't working for you.” Fortunately, it seems as though she hopped off the Pity Train by the end of the title, when Hadrian needed her support. Yay, you!
Hadrian. Rawr! He's awake and ready to lead his clan through rebuilding and keep the peace. Since he was in self-imposed exile for 350-ish years, Hadrian is a bit behind the times when it comes to technology and social trends and norms. However, he's ready to kick-ass and take names later, if that is what needs to happen! When I found out **why** Hadrian is so morose, my heart broke for him. Feeling responsible for someone's death is never easy. Much more difficult when that someone is your TWIN BROTHER! I'm glad I felt like that was resolved by the time we reached the end of the story. I don't think I could have handled the continuation of that storyline. What I'm not entirely cool with is the demon which is Hadrian's vampire. Previously, vamps were created by a bite. Although, Hadrian is possessed by a demon, and it was implied that the demon caused the vampirism. That part of the plot confused me a little, but it was easy to take the leap of faith and simply go with it. **VampBard, shut up the constant analysis and enjoy the damn book!** Long story short, the demon played nice, and Hadrian got his anger issues under control. As matter of fact, his middle name should be CONTROL. The compassion I had for Hadrian throughout the title was immense. I cried, people. Giant, crocodile tears, when I found out why Hadrian hated himself so much. Another round of tears when Hadrian 'said goodbye' to his brother. Seriously. I've warned you. Have tissues at-the-ready. Ultimately, this vamp who felt himself unworthy of love discovered that the true meaning of love is to accept someone as they are, and not expect change as a condition of a relationship. This is one of the reasons I fell in total lurve with Hadrian.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is my favorite Rulers of Darkness title to-date. The third book in the series has me chomping at the bit for the next installment.
May 26, 2019
Caressed by A Crimson Moon is the third book in the Rulers of Darkness series. It tells the story of Eva a half-breed shifter and Hadrian Lucretius, the mad vampire king of the Validus Clan.
Eva is considered an abomination to her pack because of her half-breed nature. She lived in the world of humans until the death of her mom when her father took her to live with his pack. Eva’s treatment by the pack was unpleasant. Unable to take animal form or have children her pack treated her like a pariah. The pack had an agreement with the vampire clan, where the alpha would send one of his daughters to be a ward to the vampire king. Because of the madness that had consumed the king the alpha decided Eva would be the perfect candidate, believing the vampire king would have her destroyed.
Hadrian is known as the beast among vampires, the mad king. Haunted by a past riddled with torture, death and blood-lust he descended into a state of madness, which saw him renouncing his throne.
He has returned to claim it after 350 years of self-imposed exile, thus triggering the death curse. A curse which would eventually kill him should he not find his mate.
From the moment Eva and Hadrian met, sparks flew. Eva had difficulty keeping her distance despite humorous warnings from Falcon, Hadrian’s second in command. Hadrian tried resisting the attraction out of fear and he did not desire to disrespect her pack. She is his ward and therefore under his protection, but when information regarding Eva’s heritage became known the excuse of her being his ward went out the door.
I understood Hadrian’s hesitance to get close to Eva, but after sometime his push and pull, actions became annoying. Despite this, I enjoyed seeing them together. What I loved about their relationship was how they helped each other grow. They became each other’s saviour.
Eva saw herself as being unworthy and I understood why, given the abuse she had endured but the constant belittling of her worth became tiresome. Thankfully, she outgrew this phase and became the voice of reason for Hadrian.
I enjoyed learning about Eva’s true heritage, but I would have been nice to see her father’s reaction now that the truth came to light. In addition, it would have been good to know how he took the news that the daughter he saw as an abomination was the mate of a powerful vampire king. I am curious as to the reason Eva’s father took her live with the pack knowing they considered her an abomination. What did he hope to achieve?
This is an engaging and fun story with interesting characters and great world building. It was great reuniting with the characters from the previous installment.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Another great addition to the series. I would recommend this series to fans of paranormal romance. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Eva is considered an abomination to her pack because of her half-breed nature. She lived in the world of humans until the death of her mom when her father took her to live with his pack. Eva’s treatment by the pack was unpleasant. Unable to take animal form or have children her pack treated her like a pariah. The pack had an agreement with the vampire clan, where the alpha would send one of his daughters to be a ward to the vampire king. Because of the madness that had consumed the king the alpha decided Eva would be the perfect candidate, believing the vampire king would have her destroyed.
Hadrian is known as the beast among vampires, the mad king. Haunted by a past riddled with torture, death and blood-lust he descended into a state of madness, which saw him renouncing his throne.
He has returned to claim it after 350 years of self-imposed exile, thus triggering the death curse. A curse which would eventually kill him should he not find his mate.
From the moment Eva and Hadrian met, sparks flew. Eva had difficulty keeping her distance despite humorous warnings from Falcon, Hadrian’s second in command. Hadrian tried resisting the attraction out of fear and he did not desire to disrespect her pack. She is his ward and therefore under his protection, but when information regarding Eva’s heritage became known the excuse of her being his ward went out the door.
I understood Hadrian’s hesitance to get close to Eva, but after sometime his push and pull, actions became annoying. Despite this, I enjoyed seeing them together. What I loved about their relationship was how they helped each other grow. They became each other’s saviour.
Eva saw herself as being unworthy and I understood why, given the abuse she had endured but the constant belittling of her worth became tiresome. Thankfully, she outgrew this phase and became the voice of reason for Hadrian.
I enjoyed learning about Eva’s true heritage, but I would have been nice to see her father’s reaction now that the truth came to light. In addition, it would have been good to know how he took the news that the daughter he saw as an abomination was the mate of a powerful vampire king. I am curious as to the reason Eva’s father took her live with the pack knowing they considered her an abomination. What did he hope to achieve?
This is an engaging and fun story with interesting characters and great world building. It was great reuniting with the characters from the previous installment.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Another great addition to the series. I would recommend this series to fans of paranormal romance. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 17, 2013
From http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....
At A Glance
I enjoyed reading Caressed by a Crimson Moon, I just wish more happened.
The Good
Let me start off by saying that I have not read the first two books of this series. I was a bit confused in the beginning and I didn't fully understand some references from past happenings, but overall this can be a standalone book. So I wasn't confused after things got going.
What drew me to this story was the idea of a woman, because of her half-breed shapeshifter status, is deemed so useless that she is given as a sacrifice to a scary and insane vampire. Pretty messed up. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
Eva has a pretty messed up life. Her family treats her like a slave or whipping boy (or girl as it were). Then they give her over to the vampires, who are in a war with the shapeshifters, to fulfill a stupid contract. When Eva meets the king, he is as crazy as legend says, but he is also sexy as hell. Eva is surprisingly strong for someone who has been beaten down so many times. She goes after what she wants and has no regrets. I think she handled Hadrian really well. She sees the the man behind the demon.
King Hadrian has dealt with madness for hundreds of year. His past sins will not leave him alone, literally. But when Eva walks through his door, he is stunned by the emotions she stirs within him. Hadrian was both frightening and endearing. He does everything in his power to keep her safe, even from him. Hadrian was a little too "woe is me" but he definitely grew on me. Who can blame the guy? I would be pretty stressed if I could kill the person I love at any second because of the demon in my head.
This is a very emotionally charged story. You so want the couple to realize that they love each other, but they continue to push each other apart thinking it is for the best. It makes you realize how important communication is. This is a character story through and through.
The Bad
This could have been an amazing book if there was a plot. But it's my own fault because the blurb in no way proved inaccurate. It ended up being exactly what it says. Hadrian = tormented. Eva = sacrifice/new lover? That is the gist of the plot. Don't expect much action or conflict except for Eva and Hadrian having an instant attraction, reasons for not being together, then finally figuring it all out. The End. And the little conflict/story that was thrown into the mix was never settled. No questions answered, no drama elaborated on. Just the introduction to potential side storylines and then we are cut off.
The Snuggly
Hotness for sure. I mean straight up yummy. If you are looking for a sizzling read with oh so thick sexual tension, this is the book for you. Caressed by a Crimson Moon is all about Eva and Hadrian and their smoking chemistry.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for tortured characters who find solace in each other, then this is the book for you. The sex is smokin' as well, can't forget that. Recommended for those who love paranormal romance.
Quotes
A cool hand clamped over her mouth, stifling her scream as she was hauled back. Eva fought for freedom, twisting around, she jabbed her elbow in her attacker's side then kicked back, connecting with his shin. He growled in response and spun her about, trapping her with his body. His hands slammed into the wall, cracking the wood, on either side of her head.
"Little girls should not wander alone in the dark." She closed her eyes and swallowed hard. His voice, it was dark, threatening--pure sex. He leaned his head down, his lips brushed her ear and, God help her, she shivered. Whether it was from fear or something entirely sexual, she did not know.
At A Glance
I enjoyed reading Caressed by a Crimson Moon, I just wish more happened.
The Good
Let me start off by saying that I have not read the first two books of this series. I was a bit confused in the beginning and I didn't fully understand some references from past happenings, but overall this can be a standalone book. So I wasn't confused after things got going.
What drew me to this story was the idea of a woman, because of her half-breed shapeshifter status, is deemed so useless that she is given as a sacrifice to a scary and insane vampire. Pretty messed up. I just had to know what was going to happen next.
Eva has a pretty messed up life. Her family treats her like a slave or whipping boy (or girl as it were). Then they give her over to the vampires, who are in a war with the shapeshifters, to fulfill a stupid contract. When Eva meets the king, he is as crazy as legend says, but he is also sexy as hell. Eva is surprisingly strong for someone who has been beaten down so many times. She goes after what she wants and has no regrets. I think she handled Hadrian really well. She sees the the man behind the demon.
King Hadrian has dealt with madness for hundreds of year. His past sins will not leave him alone, literally. But when Eva walks through his door, he is stunned by the emotions she stirs within him. Hadrian was both frightening and endearing. He does everything in his power to keep her safe, even from him. Hadrian was a little too "woe is me" but he definitely grew on me. Who can blame the guy? I would be pretty stressed if I could kill the person I love at any second because of the demon in my head.
This is a very emotionally charged story. You so want the couple to realize that they love each other, but they continue to push each other apart thinking it is for the best. It makes you realize how important communication is. This is a character story through and through.
The Bad
This could have been an amazing book if there was a plot. But it's my own fault because the blurb in no way proved inaccurate. It ended up being exactly what it says. Hadrian = tormented. Eva = sacrifice/new lover? That is the gist of the plot. Don't expect much action or conflict except for Eva and Hadrian having an instant attraction, reasons for not being together, then finally figuring it all out. The End. And the little conflict/story that was thrown into the mix was never settled. No questions answered, no drama elaborated on. Just the introduction to potential side storylines and then we are cut off.
The Snuggly
Hotness for sure. I mean straight up yummy. If you are looking for a sizzling read with oh so thick sexual tension, this is the book for you. Caressed by a Crimson Moon is all about Eva and Hadrian and their smoking chemistry.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for tortured characters who find solace in each other, then this is the book for you. The sex is smokin' as well, can't forget that. Recommended for those who love paranormal romance.
Quotes
A cool hand clamped over her mouth, stifling her scream as she was hauled back. Eva fought for freedom, twisting around, she jabbed her elbow in her attacker's side then kicked back, connecting with his shin. He growled in response and spun her about, trapping her with his body. His hands slammed into the wall, cracking the wood, on either side of her head.
"Little girls should not wander alone in the dark." She closed her eyes and swallowed hard. His voice, it was dark, threatening--pure sex. He leaned his head down, his lips brushed her ear and, God help her, she shivered. Whether it was from fear or something entirely sexual, she did not know.
January 27, 2015
Soon to be posted at: Riverina Romantics
My Rating: 4 out of 5 ✩
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5 ❤
This series so far has been very good. I’ve enjoyed the stories and learning about the characters and really started to get attached to some of them. Then I found out this story was about Hadrian, and I got excited. Hadrian has been one of those characters that I have really been pulling for and to get his story made me very happy!
Hadrian is the ‘Mad King’. He has come out of exile to reclaim the throne of his clan, but he’s still not quite himself. Every day he still battles the madness inside him, but every day he gets stronger. He has to uphold a treaty he made for peace, and accepts Eva into his home. But the moment she steps foot into his castle, he can’t seem to stay away from her. He is drawn to her in a way that he has never experienced before. His inner battle intensifies to dangerous levels as well as his need to keep her safe—and his need for her. He constantly fights himself, warring between wanting her blood and wanting her body. Deep down, he really was a beautiful man. He did everything in his power to protect Eva, to show her that he could care for her the way he wanted to. She gave him a reason to live, to keep fighting, to be the king that he knew he could be. Despite the madness working against him, he discovered what Eva meant to him. He embraced everything she stood for and gained a kind of love that truly complimented who he was inside and made him so much more than he ever expected.
Eva has been given every bad hand possible in her life. When she is given to the ‘Mad King’ as a ward, she believes that her life very well may be over. But she meets him, and is inexplicably drawn to him in a way she knows is dangerous. But she can’t help it. He is everything she needs. She was an incredibly understanding woman, her intelligence and her instinct giving her the means to truly comprehend Hadrian and what he is going through. They both have scars in ways that go soul deep, but she knew deep down he was a good man. She took things as they came, doing her best to stay calm and to understand what was going on and why. She was very open and gentle-hearted, and her acceptance and will reached Hadrian all the way to his very being. Her pure soul called to him and embraced him. At first it was terrifying, the way they reacted to each other. But once she started listening to herself and to what her intuition was telling her, she realized that she was the kind of light that could heal him and show him who he was, and give him the kind of love that was fated for eternity.
I really liked how Eva and Hadrian’s relationship developed. It was like one rocky road after another, always some kind of challenge popping up to tear them a part. Despite it all, they pulled through and their love grew ever stronger. However, I was disappointed in the ending. The big climax of the book seemed like it was too short and too easy. I was all ramped up for this big ending, and it fell short. Despite that, it was overall a really go story and it wasn’t a big enough let down for me to give it less than 4 stars. But that epilogue…I’m desperately wanting to know how Sonya and Falcon’s relationship will develop. Can’t wait!
My Rating: 4 out of 5 ✩
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5 ❤
This series so far has been very good. I’ve enjoyed the stories and learning about the characters and really started to get attached to some of them. Then I found out this story was about Hadrian, and I got excited. Hadrian has been one of those characters that I have really been pulling for and to get his story made me very happy!
Hadrian is the ‘Mad King’. He has come out of exile to reclaim the throne of his clan, but he’s still not quite himself. Every day he still battles the madness inside him, but every day he gets stronger. He has to uphold a treaty he made for peace, and accepts Eva into his home. But the moment she steps foot into his castle, he can’t seem to stay away from her. He is drawn to her in a way that he has never experienced before. His inner battle intensifies to dangerous levels as well as his need to keep her safe—and his need for her. He constantly fights himself, warring between wanting her blood and wanting her body. Deep down, he really was a beautiful man. He did everything in his power to protect Eva, to show her that he could care for her the way he wanted to. She gave him a reason to live, to keep fighting, to be the king that he knew he could be. Despite the madness working against him, he discovered what Eva meant to him. He embraced everything she stood for and gained a kind of love that truly complimented who he was inside and made him so much more than he ever expected.
Eva has been given every bad hand possible in her life. When she is given to the ‘Mad King’ as a ward, she believes that her life very well may be over. But she meets him, and is inexplicably drawn to him in a way she knows is dangerous. But she can’t help it. He is everything she needs. She was an incredibly understanding woman, her intelligence and her instinct giving her the means to truly comprehend Hadrian and what he is going through. They both have scars in ways that go soul deep, but she knew deep down he was a good man. She took things as they came, doing her best to stay calm and to understand what was going on and why. She was very open and gentle-hearted, and her acceptance and will reached Hadrian all the way to his very being. Her pure soul called to him and embraced him. At first it was terrifying, the way they reacted to each other. But once she started listening to herself and to what her intuition was telling her, she realized that she was the kind of light that could heal him and show him who he was, and give him the kind of love that was fated for eternity.
I really liked how Eva and Hadrian’s relationship developed. It was like one rocky road after another, always some kind of challenge popping up to tear them a part. Despite it all, they pulled through and their love grew ever stronger. However, I was disappointed in the ending. The big climax of the book seemed like it was too short and too easy. I was all ramped up for this big ending, and it fell short. Despite that, it was overall a really go story and it wasn’t a big enough let down for me to give it less than 4 stars. But that epilogue…I’m desperately wanting to know how Sonya and Falcon’s relationship will develop. Can’t wait!
April 4, 2013
Amanda J Greene returns to her paranormal series with book 3, Caressed By A Crimson Moon with Hadrian, the crazed vampire king horror stories are made of. Hadrian, who had exiled himself long ago, has decided to come back and take his rightful place as king. In doing so he enacts a long dead treaty with a werewolf pack to bring one of their leaders daughters into his house as his ward. The werewolf leader sends his bastard, half breed daughter, Eva who he wants nothing to do with. Eva has lived in poverty and been treated like a slave for years because of her half blood ancestry but coming to the castle to belong to a vicious vampire seems like an even worse fate. Knowing her father expects her to die at his hands she still agrees to go hoping she can escape once she arrives.
What Eva finds upon arriving is nothing that she ever expected. Her body heats just seeing Hadrian and even though he fights it, Hadrian feels the pull too. She quickly finds out he isn’t nearly as crazy as everyone believes him to be but he suffers from horrible guilt and nightmares from his past. When Eva is near Hadrian’s demons have a harder time ruling his emotions and his growing feelings cause them to quiet for longer periods of time. She evokes a calmness in him that both arouse and confuse him. I loved how Hadrian evolved over the course of the book. At the beginning he’s scary and big and imposing but as the chapters wore on I started to see him simply as scarred and needing to be understood, heard and felt. He always treated Eva with respect and used a gentle hand on her, even giving up what he wanted most in the world….to die. He was complex and Greene weaves a story that leaves no holes in the plot.
Eva’s heritage is much more complex then Hadrian first believes and her life hangs in the balance even as their passion heats up. His craving of her knows no bounds and even though he believes that he must set her free to live the life she was deprived of in her pack, he is quickly becoming obsessed with her. Her mind, her body, Hadrian will take anything that Eva is willing to give him for whatever time they have together. He is brooding, alpha and yea, just a bit on the crazy side. But it worked and it worked well.
I will say parts of the book are a bit slow. There is a lot of back story that Hadrian must reveal in order for Eva to understand him as a man and as a vampire. Eva’s unlikely backstory also stalls the plot a bit as Hadrian deals with what he must sacrifice to save her. There are stretches of time that not much happens and as a reader I did get frustrated at those parts. There is also quite a set up for book four with Hadrian’s second in command.
Overall I really enjoyed Caressed By A Crimson Moon and I look forward to more from Amanda J Greene! She writes with fluidness and a passion that I have found lacking in what I have been reading lately.
I give Caressed By A Crimson Moon by Amanda J Greene 4 stars!
What Eva finds upon arriving is nothing that she ever expected. Her body heats just seeing Hadrian and even though he fights it, Hadrian feels the pull too. She quickly finds out he isn’t nearly as crazy as everyone believes him to be but he suffers from horrible guilt and nightmares from his past. When Eva is near Hadrian’s demons have a harder time ruling his emotions and his growing feelings cause them to quiet for longer periods of time. She evokes a calmness in him that both arouse and confuse him. I loved how Hadrian evolved over the course of the book. At the beginning he’s scary and big and imposing but as the chapters wore on I started to see him simply as scarred and needing to be understood, heard and felt. He always treated Eva with respect and used a gentle hand on her, even giving up what he wanted most in the world….to die. He was complex and Greene weaves a story that leaves no holes in the plot.
Eva’s heritage is much more complex then Hadrian first believes and her life hangs in the balance even as their passion heats up. His craving of her knows no bounds and even though he believes that he must set her free to live the life she was deprived of in her pack, he is quickly becoming obsessed with her. Her mind, her body, Hadrian will take anything that Eva is willing to give him for whatever time they have together. He is brooding, alpha and yea, just a bit on the crazy side. But it worked and it worked well.
I will say parts of the book are a bit slow. There is a lot of back story that Hadrian must reveal in order for Eva to understand him as a man and as a vampire. Eva’s unlikely backstory also stalls the plot a bit as Hadrian deals with what he must sacrifice to save her. There are stretches of time that not much happens and as a reader I did get frustrated at those parts. There is also quite a set up for book four with Hadrian’s second in command.
Overall I really enjoyed Caressed By A Crimson Moon and I look forward to more from Amanda J Greene! She writes with fluidness and a passion that I have found lacking in what I have been reading lately.
I give Caressed By A Crimson Moon by Amanda J Greene 4 stars!
March 18, 2016
My Impressions: Great Chemistry between Hadrian and Eva. The scene was set, in a very atmospheric and mood isolated castle estate. Hadrian is tortured and angst-filled…over his brother’s death. Eva comes with a background of abuse and neglect. They are both written well, with interesting layers to their respective personalities. So Much potential…and not much else.
The Love Story: Smokin’ Hot…and not for the prudish. But come on….Hot sex and angst are just pieces of a larger puzzle…and a few of them are missing here. Where the hell is the romance?? They don’t date, or even share meals together really….Ok he doesn’t eat, he drinks blood so perhaps that’s not a good example. But he had a movie room at the estate perfect for date night. Likewise, there’s a gym, they could have worked out together. They don’t talk or get to know each other. But of course they are meant to be together because of the mating drive thing…Geez, I’m so over this SoulMate/Lifemate concept. Its been done to death, and grossly misused. Its could have been a good thing but here its done as an excuse almost. Because otherwise a real romance would have had to be written and developed. I never got the sense that they loved each other...but rather were the victims of renegade Pheromones and Biology.
Major Issues – Plot was thin…too thin. (like anorexic thin). This would have been less of a problem if the romance had been more developed. The last book I read had a beautifully-developed romance and no plot…and its didn’t bother me nearly as much. There really needed to be more going on than just angst and sex. This is not as much of a problem in the first half of the book because we’re still getting to know the central hero and heroine, plus the tension and anticipation is building…but it becomes an issue later on…Because frankly there’s only so much sexual tension/angst that a reader can take. Its just becomes too much. There needs to be a secondary something to break up the monotony. And it would have been sooo easily done, I’m surprised the author didn’t. I mean, Hadrian’s the king, right? Why couldn’t He be planning/tweaking the coronation? Why couldn’t he have conference calls with his lieutenants? Treaties and contracts to read over and sign? Nobles who arrive to requests an audience with him…asking favors or have business ideas or propositions to discuss. Or hell, even gossip-mongers who just want a lookie loo at the Mad King? Likewise, Eva has nothing to do but pine for Hadrian. Just saying, this book is screaming for a subplot. The first half was all angst and tension…the second half all smut. Yeah there’s some plot twist thrown in right near the end, but before that its just nonstop sex-capades. I about smoked a cigarette after!
Honorable Mention: I really like the Shaw Witch character (Silvie, I think?)…She was sassy and fun, and quite a scene stealer.
The Verdict: Had potential…went nowhere. Needs More Romance, Less Sex…and a subplot to take the edge off.
The Love Story: Smokin’ Hot…and not for the prudish. But come on….Hot sex and angst are just pieces of a larger puzzle…and a few of them are missing here. Where the hell is the romance?? They don’t date, or even share meals together really….Ok he doesn’t eat, he drinks blood so perhaps that’s not a good example. But he had a movie room at the estate perfect for date night. Likewise, there’s a gym, they could have worked out together. They don’t talk or get to know each other. But of course they are meant to be together because of the mating drive thing…Geez, I’m so over this SoulMate/Lifemate concept. Its been done to death, and grossly misused. Its could have been a good thing but here its done as an excuse almost. Because otherwise a real romance would have had to be written and developed. I never got the sense that they loved each other...but rather were the victims of renegade Pheromones and Biology.
Major Issues – Plot was thin…too thin. (like anorexic thin). This would have been less of a problem if the romance had been more developed. The last book I read had a beautifully-developed romance and no plot…and its didn’t bother me nearly as much. There really needed to be more going on than just angst and sex. This is not as much of a problem in the first half of the book because we’re still getting to know the central hero and heroine, plus the tension and anticipation is building…but it becomes an issue later on…Because frankly there’s only so much sexual tension/angst that a reader can take. Its just becomes too much. There needs to be a secondary something to break up the monotony. And it would have been sooo easily done, I’m surprised the author didn’t. I mean, Hadrian’s the king, right? Why couldn’t He be planning/tweaking the coronation? Why couldn’t he have conference calls with his lieutenants? Treaties and contracts to read over and sign? Nobles who arrive to requests an audience with him…asking favors or have business ideas or propositions to discuss. Or hell, even gossip-mongers who just want a lookie loo at the Mad King? Likewise, Eva has nothing to do but pine for Hadrian. Just saying, this book is screaming for a subplot. The first half was all angst and tension…the second half all smut. Yeah there’s some plot twist thrown in right near the end, but before that its just nonstop sex-capades. I about smoked a cigarette after!
Honorable Mention: I really like the Shaw Witch character (Silvie, I think?)…She was sassy and fun, and quite a scene stealer.
The Verdict: Had potential…went nowhere. Needs More Romance, Less Sex…and a subplot to take the edge off.
March 3, 2013
I had forgotten how much I like Amanda J. Greene's writing, she has a talent of uniting sexy vampires with spunky modern women and creating lots of yummy romance drama! This time though Caressed by a Crimson Moon was lacking the fast pace plot the previous books had. I immensely enjoyed the first and last 20% of the book, they had the drama and the action and the story telling I've come to love from Ms. Greene. The 60% in the middle could have been better. Why, you ask? Well the story seemed to stall while Eva and Hadrian simply lusted after each other and met "randomly" around the castle she'd been brought to. And if you know me at all, you know I really dislike flashback memories. So why did you give it 4 stars then, you ask? Well, read on. ;)
Hot, hot, hot! Although first part of Eva's and Hardian's love life was the ultimate tease, it was still super tempting and that hot; will I, won't I, and should I, shouldn't I? was extremely addictive to read, I couldn't have stopped had I wanted to, because The Law of Romance Novels says the couple must knock boots! And they did eventually. The middle 60% was reading like erotic romance as where the surrounding 20% were the paranormal romance, with all the other characters I've grown to love like Gabriel, Gannon, Sonya, Dimitri and Dorian and their respected mates.
Now what I loved about Hadrian was that he was the ultimate bad boy, kinda mad but wanting so badly to redeem himself and be a good ruler for his clan, the poor guy just never gave himself enough credit and that started to grate my nerves, but luckily he had Eva who brought out the sexy side of his alpha nature which worked wonder on those grated nerves. ;) The first 80% of Caressed by the Crimson Moon I didn't think I was going to like Eva and Hadrian as a couple, but I totally changed my mind ( as we women are allowed to ) after Hadrian got his shit together and decided to fight for her. I loved Eva in the beginning she was a spunky survivor and you immediately took her side and wanted her to get away from her abusive Pack, then thought she was way too easy in the middle, and loved when she got her ducks in a row at the end. A real roller coaster read for me!
Hot, hot, hot! Although first part of Eva's and Hardian's love life was the ultimate tease, it was still super tempting and that hot; will I, won't I, and should I, shouldn't I? was extremely addictive to read, I couldn't have stopped had I wanted to, because The Law of Romance Novels says the couple must knock boots! And they did eventually. The middle 60% was reading like erotic romance as where the surrounding 20% were the paranormal romance, with all the other characters I've grown to love like Gabriel, Gannon, Sonya, Dimitri and Dorian and their respected mates.
Now what I loved about Hadrian was that he was the ultimate bad boy, kinda mad but wanting so badly to redeem himself and be a good ruler for his clan, the poor guy just never gave himself enough credit and that started to grate my nerves, but luckily he had Eva who brought out the sexy side of his alpha nature which worked wonder on those grated nerves. ;) The first 80% of Caressed by the Crimson Moon I didn't think I was going to like Eva and Hadrian as a couple, but I totally changed my mind ( as we women are allowed to ) after Hadrian got his shit together and decided to fight for her. I loved Eva in the beginning she was a spunky survivor and you immediately took her side and wanted her to get away from her abusive Pack, then thought she was way too easy in the middle, and loved when she got her ducks in a row at the end. A real roller coaster read for me!
February 8, 2013
I was so excited when I was asked if I wanted to review this book. I already had this on my wish list with Amazon, so I snatched the opportunity to read it. I love this series and this cover is smoking! Just the cover makes you want to buy the book.
Hadrian is the true definition of tortured Alpha hero. The demon inside of him (his vampire) tortures him with visions of his maker’s past. He has watched his maker kill thousands upon thousands of innocents, raping and pillaging villages. He is haunted by Imbarsus’ past deeds and the fact that he feels as though he murdered his brother. He goes into hiding, renounce his rightful place as king for over 350 years, trying to deal with the madness that is consuming him.
Eva was raised by her mother for the first seventeen years of her life. She was loved and cherished. When her mother died of cancer when she was seventeen her father came and snatched her up. Living with her father was torture. He and his wife and full-blooded shifter children beat and tormented her nonstop. When she gets the opportunity to escape that life, she snatches it, even if her escape is her father sending her to a crazed vampire to spare one of his treasured full-blood daughters.
This story was so emotionally charged, with both the hero and heroine believing that they didn’t deserve the other. They almost pushed each other away permanently. When Hadrian keep pushing Eva away “for her own good” because he was too evil for her, I wanted to punch him and when Eva didn’t stand against him while he was doing this I wanted to slap her. Everyone could see they were meant to be together except for them. I really loved this book and fell into the characters so much so that now, I can’t wait to see what happens with Falcon and Sonya. What a cliff hanger.
Ms. Greene definitely knows how to spin her web. Drawing you into the characters and their lives, making you live within their heads, feel what they feel . She is definitely a master story teller and I can’t wait to read more.
Hadrian is the true definition of tortured Alpha hero. The demon inside of him (his vampire) tortures him with visions of his maker’s past. He has watched his maker kill thousands upon thousands of innocents, raping and pillaging villages. He is haunted by Imbarsus’ past deeds and the fact that he feels as though he murdered his brother. He goes into hiding, renounce his rightful place as king for over 350 years, trying to deal with the madness that is consuming him.
Eva was raised by her mother for the first seventeen years of her life. She was loved and cherished. When her mother died of cancer when she was seventeen her father came and snatched her up. Living with her father was torture. He and his wife and full-blooded shifter children beat and tormented her nonstop. When she gets the opportunity to escape that life, she snatches it, even if her escape is her father sending her to a crazed vampire to spare one of his treasured full-blood daughters.
This story was so emotionally charged, with both the hero and heroine believing that they didn’t deserve the other. They almost pushed each other away permanently. When Hadrian keep pushing Eva away “for her own good” because he was too evil for her, I wanted to punch him and when Eva didn’t stand against him while he was doing this I wanted to slap her. Everyone could see they were meant to be together except for them. I really loved this book and fell into the characters so much so that now, I can’t wait to see what happens with Falcon and Sonya. What a cliff hanger.
Ms. Greene definitely knows how to spin her web. Drawing you into the characters and their lives, making you live within their heads, feel what they feel . She is definitely a master story teller and I can’t wait to read more.
February 14, 2013
I love Amanda J. Greene and her Rulers of Darkness series. When I read the first book, Caressed by Moonlight which was Dorian and Victoria’s story I was a little skeptical because of the historical setting with paranormal elements. I didn’t know whether I was going to keep reading on. But when I started Caressed by Night, which was Dimitri and Kerstyn’s story I was put back on track so to speak with the timeline. Now, I’m kind of thrown off again with Caressed by a Crimson Moon which is Hadrian and Eva’s story.
Don’t get me wrong, I really did enjoy reading through their sexual chemistry and Hadrian’s angst to commit to Eva, but that’s all there was. Ok, yes there was also issues with Eva and Hadrian relating to both of their families but we really did not delve into that as much as I would have liked. And maybe that was a big part of why I couldn’t finish the book in the time allotted me, I really kept having to take breaks partly to separate myself from all the sexual tension that was going on page after page (there’s only so much you can take in the span of an hour).
Eva is made Hadrian’s ward through a centuries old pact between a jungle shifter clan and his vampire clan, through this pact he is to receive as a ward a purebred shifter but he is tricked and gets Eva instead who is only a half breed and therefore disposable. The instant Hadrian and Eva meet though they both know they were meant to be bound together even though Hadrian attempts through half the book to not have sex with Eva.
When they finally do have sex, Hadrian still tries to push Eva away. The night of Eva’s change changes nothing in Hadrian’s eyes. Now, I really hate to admit this; but I’m not even finished with the book. Granted, I had more than enough time to read the entire thing but I just could not get into it like I did the previous Caressed by Night. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story (I only have a couple pages left), and I can’t wait for the next book in this spellbinding series.
Don’t get me wrong, I really did enjoy reading through their sexual chemistry and Hadrian’s angst to commit to Eva, but that’s all there was. Ok, yes there was also issues with Eva and Hadrian relating to both of their families but we really did not delve into that as much as I would have liked. And maybe that was a big part of why I couldn’t finish the book in the time allotted me, I really kept having to take breaks partly to separate myself from all the sexual tension that was going on page after page (there’s only so much you can take in the span of an hour).
Eva is made Hadrian’s ward through a centuries old pact between a jungle shifter clan and his vampire clan, through this pact he is to receive as a ward a purebred shifter but he is tricked and gets Eva instead who is only a half breed and therefore disposable. The instant Hadrian and Eva meet though they both know they were meant to be bound together even though Hadrian attempts through half the book to not have sex with Eva.
When they finally do have sex, Hadrian still tries to push Eva away. The night of Eva’s change changes nothing in Hadrian’s eyes. Now, I really hate to admit this; but I’m not even finished with the book. Granted, I had more than enough time to read the entire thing but I just could not get into it like I did the previous Caressed by Night. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story (I only have a couple pages left), and I can’t wait for the next book in this spellbinding series.
March 28, 2013
Today's review is on Caressed by a Crimson Moon by Amanda Greene
What can I say about this series that I haven't already said? No matter what, when I grab each book in this steamy and sexy series I just can't put it down. The sexual tension alone tingles my brain as well as my desires. And while some books become boring, the Rulers of Darkness stories just keeps getting better and better, and in my opinion this third installment is the best so far.
In the previous books we learn about Hadrian Lucretius, the crazy and ruthless King of the Validus Clan and how he gave up his throne and went into seclusion after the death of his twin brother, Titus. For 350 years he has waited for death to claim him. He is constantly tormented by his memories, reliving the horrible things that he has done. But he must live in order to ensure peace. His clan needs him and he will not let them down.
While preparing to reclaim his rightful place as King, he sends his Second, Falcon to the Alpha of the Silveria Shifter Pack. Years and years ago a treaty was signed stating that the Shifter Alpha must provide a full-breed daughter to the King in order to maintain their alliance. Reluctant to send any of his full-breed daughters the Alpha sends his half-breed daughter Eva as a ward instead, knowing full well that the insane King would most likely kill her. But that may not be the case.
From the first time Eva "meets" the King she is consumed with heat and lust. Though Falcon warns her not to seek him out, her instinct continues to draw her to him. And when they are together......grab the hose! But Eva isn't all that she seems, and her life is at stake. It will be up to Hadrian to save her because he is the only that can.
Even though book 3 is edited just as poorly as the previous ones, it is still a great addition to my bookshelf. I can't wait for the next one.
4 of 5 stars
Available at Amazon
What can I say about this series that I haven't already said? No matter what, when I grab each book in this steamy and sexy series I just can't put it down. The sexual tension alone tingles my brain as well as my desires. And while some books become boring, the Rulers of Darkness stories just keeps getting better and better, and in my opinion this third installment is the best so far.
In the previous books we learn about Hadrian Lucretius, the crazy and ruthless King of the Validus Clan and how he gave up his throne and went into seclusion after the death of his twin brother, Titus. For 350 years he has waited for death to claim him. He is constantly tormented by his memories, reliving the horrible things that he has done. But he must live in order to ensure peace. His clan needs him and he will not let them down.
While preparing to reclaim his rightful place as King, he sends his Second, Falcon to the Alpha of the Silveria Shifter Pack. Years and years ago a treaty was signed stating that the Shifter Alpha must provide a full-breed daughter to the King in order to maintain their alliance. Reluctant to send any of his full-breed daughters the Alpha sends his half-breed daughter Eva as a ward instead, knowing full well that the insane King would most likely kill her. But that may not be the case.
From the first time Eva "meets" the King she is consumed with heat and lust. Though Falcon warns her not to seek him out, her instinct continues to draw her to him. And when they are together......grab the hose! But Eva isn't all that she seems, and her life is at stake. It will be up to Hadrian to save her because he is the only that can.
Even though book 3 is edited just as poorly as the previous ones, it is still a great addition to my bookshelf. I can't wait for the next one.
4 of 5 stars
Available at Amazon
November 6, 2013
Reviews can also be found on my blog at http://vampireswerewolvesfairiesohmy....
My Rating: 4.5
The mad king is back, but is it for good and is he sane enough to be around people? Hadrian, a vampire king, locked himself away the night he killed his brother. Even though he stepped down from being the true king of his clan no one else was elected as new king. Falcon, his second in command, took over duties but was never the king of his people. When Falcon gave Hadrian Dimitri's letter things changed for all of them. For over 300 years Hadrian was alone with nothing but his thoughts and living off of animals, so he had lots to learn to catch up with the modern world. He sent Falcon to Africa to talk to the leader of the jaguar shifters about a treaty he proposed before he went into his self-exile. Part of the deal was for the shifter alpha to send one of his daughters to live with the vampire king as his ward. The shifter alpha thought he was keeping his favorite daughter safe by sending his bastard daughter to live with the mad king. Eva, the bastard daughter, is a jaguar/human mix who everyone in the shifter world considers an outcast because she cannot shift. Coming to live with the mad king is just what Eva was looking for, a chance to escape, but when she meets him for the first time (besides being terrified) she is pulled to him in a way that she does not understand. Hadrian knows he needs to stay away from Eva, he knows he is not mentally well but her scent draws him like no other. Plus his control is almost non-existent. Living together in his castle only brings them closer to each other. She is ready to run away and he is ready to die before he ever hurts her but they still fight the constant pull to be together. When love awakens for both and Hadrian starts to get better he realizes that she is his one true love, the mate that he didn't know he wanted more than anything else in his life.
My Rating: 4.5
The mad king is back, but is it for good and is he sane enough to be around people? Hadrian, a vampire king, locked himself away the night he killed his brother. Even though he stepped down from being the true king of his clan no one else was elected as new king. Falcon, his second in command, took over duties but was never the king of his people. When Falcon gave Hadrian Dimitri's letter things changed for all of them. For over 300 years Hadrian was alone with nothing but his thoughts and living off of animals, so he had lots to learn to catch up with the modern world. He sent Falcon to Africa to talk to the leader of the jaguar shifters about a treaty he proposed before he went into his self-exile. Part of the deal was for the shifter alpha to send one of his daughters to live with the vampire king as his ward. The shifter alpha thought he was keeping his favorite daughter safe by sending his bastard daughter to live with the mad king. Eva, the bastard daughter, is a jaguar/human mix who everyone in the shifter world considers an outcast because she cannot shift. Coming to live with the mad king is just what Eva was looking for, a chance to escape, but when she meets him for the first time (besides being terrified) she is pulled to him in a way that she does not understand. Hadrian knows he needs to stay away from Eva, he knows he is not mentally well but her scent draws him like no other. Plus his control is almost non-existent. Living together in his castle only brings them closer to each other. She is ready to run away and he is ready to die before he ever hurts her but they still fight the constant pull to be together. When love awakens for both and Hadrian starts to get better he realizes that she is his one true love, the mate that he didn't know he wanted more than anything else in his life.
August 24, 2014
I received this book from the author and from Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the third book in the Rulers of Darkness Series.
Hadrian, King of the Validus Clan went into exile for nearly three hundred and fifty years after his brother's death. Now he seeks the reclaim his throne. That is if he can fight back the madness and tormented memories that haunt his mind.
Eva is a half-breed shifter. The lowest of the lows in shifter society. She is given up as a sacrifice to maintain peace between her shifter pack and the vampires. She knows the rumors of Hadrian and his madness and fears what she will face. Whisked away from her jungle prison to the cold mountains she finds that her life will never be the same.
Hadrian's new ward is not like he expected but can he fight the darkness within to be with her? Can Eva break through the beast to the man? Or will both of their torments lead them to darkness forever?
Intense, sexy and erotic. Caressed by a Crimson Moon is a Beauty and the Beast type story. I enjoyed the concept but was a little disappointed with how the story played out. The interactions between the characters were mostly lustfilled and tormented. There wasn't much action and the story was more focused on the character's inner conflict.
I liked how Eva character was strong and capable of not only holding her own but giving as good as she got. With her being part shifter, she was more aggressive and I enjoyed that about her.
Hadrian was a dark tormented vampire plagued by his past. He fits the dark, tormented character to a tee. He was forceful and demanding yet at times caring and gentle. The mix of bad boy and protector.
There was a lot of unanswered questions and I was hoping for more of a conclusion to Eva's story.
I loved how the ending set up the next novel. I look forward to reading Falcon's story!
I would rate this novel 3.5 fangs.
Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the third book in the Rulers of Darkness Series.
Hadrian, King of the Validus Clan went into exile for nearly three hundred and fifty years after his brother's death. Now he seeks the reclaim his throne. That is if he can fight back the madness and tormented memories that haunt his mind.
Eva is a half-breed shifter. The lowest of the lows in shifter society. She is given up as a sacrifice to maintain peace between her shifter pack and the vampires. She knows the rumors of Hadrian and his madness and fears what she will face. Whisked away from her jungle prison to the cold mountains she finds that her life will never be the same.
Hadrian's new ward is not like he expected but can he fight the darkness within to be with her? Can Eva break through the beast to the man? Or will both of their torments lead them to darkness forever?
Intense, sexy and erotic. Caressed by a Crimson Moon is a Beauty and the Beast type story. I enjoyed the concept but was a little disappointed with how the story played out. The interactions between the characters were mostly lustfilled and tormented. There wasn't much action and the story was more focused on the character's inner conflict.
I liked how Eva character was strong and capable of not only holding her own but giving as good as she got. With her being part shifter, she was more aggressive and I enjoyed that about her.
Hadrian was a dark tormented vampire plagued by his past. He fits the dark, tormented character to a tee. He was forceful and demanding yet at times caring and gentle. The mix of bad boy and protector.
There was a lot of unanswered questions and I was hoping for more of a conclusion to Eva's story.
I loved how the ending set up the next novel. I look forward to reading Falcon's story!
I would rate this novel 3.5 fangs.
February 12, 2017
Loved the first book of this series. This one was disappointing. These characters never really develop....they just f**k....nonstop. The sex was way overdone in this book....it just got old and tiring to read. There's only so much of seeing the words "cupped her breasts", "slick core", etc I can take. I just felt their relationship was extremely one dimensional. Eva has at least 10 orgasms every time they get it on, they even f**k for 24 straight hours when she's "in heat". This story summed up....sad mad king meets pretty girl. F*cks her nonstop for 2 months and suddenly he's cured from his madness. The end. Lol.
All I'm saying is I'm looking forward to reading about Falcon and Sonya. Hopefully there will actually be a plot. Sorry Amanda! I love your books and your writing and this one had so much potential....but it just didn't do it for me.
All I'm saying is I'm looking forward to reading about Falcon and Sonya. Hopefully there will actually be a plot. Sorry Amanda! I love your books and your writing and this one had so much potential....but it just didn't do it for me.
April 3, 2013
Ohhh, I loved this book too. This is fast becoming one of my favorite vampire series.
Hadrian is just the right blend of tortured and vulnerable. He struggles daily with his demon but so far has prevailed. Eva is a half-breed shifter. She believes that she is inferior to all other species but she is unaware of just how special she is. Eva is a very strong girl to have put up with her father’s pack after they kidnapped her once her mother passed away.
Again the author pulled together two characters who were so much alike but also so different. I really enjoyed their story as well as the other characters whose stories are building in the background. I like the variety that the female main characters have been anything from human to other supernatural creatures. It keeps it different and unique with the plot line especially when you are not sure what they are. It lends a little mystery to the story also. I am anxious to see if Falcon and Sonya get a book next or if it will be one of the others.
The story again was fast paced without being rushed and kept my interest throughout. I do love a good sword fight and in this series it does happen a time or two. Not to mention the war brewing between the witches of the Red Order vs. the vampire clans. With the Shaw (another witch clan) trying to keep the peace and the war looming between the vampires and the Red Order and all the other issues within clans and grudges held by other vampires there is no shortage of action. I can’t wait to read the fourth book in this series.
*I received this story free from the author in return for an honest review.*
Hadrian is just the right blend of tortured and vulnerable. He struggles daily with his demon but so far has prevailed. Eva is a half-breed shifter. She believes that she is inferior to all other species but she is unaware of just how special she is. Eva is a very strong girl to have put up with her father’s pack after they kidnapped her once her mother passed away.
Again the author pulled together two characters who were so much alike but also so different. I really enjoyed their story as well as the other characters whose stories are building in the background. I like the variety that the female main characters have been anything from human to other supernatural creatures. It keeps it different and unique with the plot line especially when you are not sure what they are. It lends a little mystery to the story also. I am anxious to see if Falcon and Sonya get a book next or if it will be one of the others.
The story again was fast paced without being rushed and kept my interest throughout. I do love a good sword fight and in this series it does happen a time or two. Not to mention the war brewing between the witches of the Red Order vs. the vampire clans. With the Shaw (another witch clan) trying to keep the peace and the war looming between the vampires and the Red Order and all the other issues within clans and grudges held by other vampires there is no shortage of action. I can’t wait to read the fourth book in this series.
*I received this story free from the author in return for an honest review.*
April 13, 2016
I devoured this book - or at least I did as fast as I was able. I should have given myself a full day and I would have easily been able to read it in one sitting instead of two. Damn the need to sleep.
It was actually an excerpt that I read from Caressed by a Crimson Moon, which peaked my interest in the Rulers of Darkness Series, and although I thoroughly enjoyed book one and two, book three is definitely my favourite. Hadrian and Eva's story is practically a "beauty and the beast" tale complete with a huge foreboding castle that yes, has a massive and very impressive library.
Both have great histories/back stories and it was wonderful watching their characters grow, learn and strengthen, but I have to say their story was what held my attention. Explosive sexual chemistry and tension from the start, which was helped and complimented by their strong personalities and their traumatic personal stories, you are on the edge of your seat constantly waiting for them to realize what is going on and how well it all fits together - especially on Hadrian's part. It was great watching this so called beast learn that he deserved beauty and a happily ever after.
A thoroughly satisfying read as well as a super hot and fabulous third book to the series, and as always, the author has left us on a high by hinting at what is next to come in the series, and I for one cant wait to sink my teeth into book 4.
(This book was received from author in exchange for an honest - and long over due - review.)
It was actually an excerpt that I read from Caressed by a Crimson Moon, which peaked my interest in the Rulers of Darkness Series, and although I thoroughly enjoyed book one and two, book three is definitely my favourite. Hadrian and Eva's story is practically a "beauty and the beast" tale complete with a huge foreboding castle that yes, has a massive and very impressive library.
Both have great histories/back stories and it was wonderful watching their characters grow, learn and strengthen, but I have to say their story was what held my attention. Explosive sexual chemistry and tension from the start, which was helped and complimented by their strong personalities and their traumatic personal stories, you are on the edge of your seat constantly waiting for them to realize what is going on and how well it all fits together - especially on Hadrian's part. It was great watching this so called beast learn that he deserved beauty and a happily ever after.
A thoroughly satisfying read as well as a super hot and fabulous third book to the series, and as always, the author has left us on a high by hinting at what is next to come in the series, and I for one cant wait to sink my teeth into book 4.
(This book was received from author in exchange for an honest - and long over due - review.)
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