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Flirting with Fangs Trilogy #3
Kissing with Fangs
Claudia Fletcher has her MBA and a stellar resume, so when the bar she manages burns down, she could easily move on to bigger and better things. But something about the bar owner, Anthony Cross makes it impossible to leave.
Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go…
Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go…
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
34 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Ashlyn Chase
55 books458 followersAshlyn Chase has been a registered nurse for 20 years. During those years, she wrote articles for professional journals and a thesis, but eventually, thank goodness, discovered the joy and freedom of writing fiction.
Ashlyn considers herself lucky. Her degree in behavioral sciences is a combination of psychology and sociology, so she has worked with and studied people most of her life. She never has to write out exhaustive character sketches to understand her characters or predict how they will behave. That doesn't mean they don't surprise her. Sometimes they take her on grand unexpected journeys. For her, it gives "character driven novels" a whole new meaning.
Ashlyn has learned to go with the flow. To enjoy the journey is not only one of her writing goals, but also a challenge in life so she tries to follow where the story takes her. As such, she has lived in 17 different places over the years. At last, she's all settled down and comfy in New England.
Is there a grand design or do we decide our own fates? Perhaps if the powers-that-be have a plot, then they also give us the right to revise it. Ashlyn has certainly made detours on her path, but she thinks she's better for it. She's having fun at any rate and hopes that if she enjoys the journey, so will those around her—including her readers.
Ashlyn considers herself lucky. Her degree in behavioral sciences is a combination of psychology and sociology, so she has worked with and studied people most of her life. She never has to write out exhaustive character sketches to understand her characters or predict how they will behave. That doesn't mean they don't surprise her. Sometimes they take her on grand unexpected journeys. For her, it gives "character driven novels" a whole new meaning.
Ashlyn has learned to go with the flow. To enjoy the journey is not only one of her writing goals, but also a challenge in life so she tries to follow where the story takes her. As such, she has lived in 17 different places over the years. At last, she's all settled down and comfy in New England.
Is there a grand design or do we decide our own fates? Perhaps if the powers-that-be have a plot, then they also give us the right to revise it. Ashlyn has certainly made detours on her path, but she thinks she's better for it. She's having fun at any rate and hopes that if she enjoys the journey, so will those around her—including her readers.
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December 18, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Anthony and Claudia have worked together running a bar for five years. But then the bar gets burned down Now Claudia is out of a job, and even though she has a degree, she feels a connection to Anthony. But there are certain lines that seperate them from being together. Anthony is a vampire and a love match with a human is forbidden and is ex girlfriend is out for her blood out of jealousy. But Claudia is having to face some difficult choices, and the last thing she needs is to enter a relationship with a man she has been in love with for years but hasn't touched her because of a crazy girlfriend. Anthony doesn't know if he can let Claudia go, but there are other dangers to Anthony and Claudia. As they start to connect and build on the chemistry they feel, there are paranormal hunters and a "mother nature" that seek to keep them apart, but can they find a way to beat the odds?
The Hero
Anthony, may be a vampire but it is not something he would ever choose for himself. Anthony Cross has lived a life in the darkness, and makes an effort to not act upon his urges. Anthony created the bar, so there could be a haven for any paranormal being and come together in a safe environment. Even though he did have some humans work for him like Claudia, he was quite the unusual paranormal hero. He felt more like a beta hero to me, which if you read PNR that is very rare since most of the time they are alpha. Now he had some of those qualities, but he didn't need to be domineering or in control. He just wanted to help others any way he could. Anthony was charming, intelligent and a protector but kind and considerate as well.
The Heroine
Claudia is a human woman, with a degree and has worked in management for Anthony for five years. Claudia may work in a bar, but she has a addicted to alchol. An addicted she knows is dangerous and is more out of guilt from her sisters death and blames herself. And when the bar burns down, she has a life altering decision to give up alcohol and attend AA meetings. Claudia is a heroine that grows quite a bit in this story. We see her go from being a alcoholic to making a total life change and start a relationship. Claudia is a heroine most readers could relate with. She is far from perfect, she has her own struggles and I liked that you could see her challenges and how she felt much more real and easy to relate with.
Plot and Story Line
Kissing With Fangs is the final book in the trilogy here, and my first book of this author. There were some aspects of this book I liked and others I had a bit of a issue with. But for the most part, Kissing With Fangs is enjoyable and a likable romance. This is a romance where we see two people that have been in love with each other for five years but haven't acted out on it. So we see some challenges for their relationship at the very beginning of the story. Anthony is torn because his ex girlfriend is acting crazy and jealous and their relationship is forbidden. Claudia is making some life altering changes which adds some twists to their relationship. But we do see how much they genuinely care for each other. But Claudia has no idea what Anthony truly is. I did feel that the romance felt a bit flat, I just wasn't able to fully connect with the story. The flow was a bit static at best, didn't flow as smoothly as I would have liked. There were some side characters I had some giggles over. The humor was lighthearted and charming but not quite what I expected. I did like the building of the plot which involves crazy ex girlfriend and some paranormal hunters. This story kept me intrigued by the events that unravel and I am curious about the previous two books.
The Cover
SEXY as all get out....I love the tat and the soft defined muscles
Overall View
Kissing With Fangs is a fun and lighthearted romance that will give you laughs, keep you intrigued by the world building and endearing characters you can relate with. CHARMING!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="24813"]
Summary
Anthony and Claudia have worked together running a bar for five years. But then the bar gets burned down Now Claudia is out of a job, and even though she has a degree, she feels a connection to Anthony. But there are certain lines that seperate them from being together. Anthony is a vampire and a love match with a human is forbidden and is ex girlfriend is out for her blood out of jealousy. But Claudia is having to face some difficult choices, and the last thing she needs is to enter a relationship with a man she has been in love with for years but hasn't touched her because of a crazy girlfriend. Anthony doesn't know if he can let Claudia go, but there are other dangers to Anthony and Claudia. As they start to connect and build on the chemistry they feel, there are paranormal hunters and a "mother nature" that seek to keep them apart, but can they find a way to beat the odds?
The Hero
Anthony, may be a vampire but it is not something he would ever choose for himself. Anthony Cross has lived a life in the darkness, and makes an effort to not act upon his urges. Anthony created the bar, so there could be a haven for any paranormal being and come together in a safe environment. Even though he did have some humans work for him like Claudia, he was quite the unusual paranormal hero. He felt more like a beta hero to me, which if you read PNR that is very rare since most of the time they are alpha. Now he had some of those qualities, but he didn't need to be domineering or in control. He just wanted to help others any way he could. Anthony was charming, intelligent and a protector but kind and considerate as well.
The Heroine
Claudia is a human woman, with a degree and has worked in management for Anthony for five years. Claudia may work in a bar, but she has a addicted to alchol. An addicted she knows is dangerous and is more out of guilt from her sisters death and blames herself. And when the bar burns down, she has a life altering decision to give up alcohol and attend AA meetings. Claudia is a heroine that grows quite a bit in this story. We see her go from being a alcoholic to making a total life change and start a relationship. Claudia is a heroine most readers could relate with. She is far from perfect, she has her own struggles and I liked that you could see her challenges and how she felt much more real and easy to relate with.
Plot and Story Line
Kissing With Fangs is the final book in the trilogy here, and my first book of this author. There were some aspects of this book I liked and others I had a bit of a issue with. But for the most part, Kissing With Fangs is enjoyable and a likable romance. This is a romance where we see two people that have been in love with each other for five years but haven't acted out on it. So we see some challenges for their relationship at the very beginning of the story. Anthony is torn because his ex girlfriend is acting crazy and jealous and their relationship is forbidden. Claudia is making some life altering changes which adds some twists to their relationship. But we do see how much they genuinely care for each other. But Claudia has no idea what Anthony truly is. I did feel that the romance felt a bit flat, I just wasn't able to fully connect with the story. The flow was a bit static at best, didn't flow as smoothly as I would have liked. There were some side characters I had some giggles over. The humor was lighthearted and charming but not quite what I expected. I did like the building of the plot which involves crazy ex girlfriend and some paranormal hunters. This story kept me intrigued by the events that unravel and I am curious about the previous two books.
The Cover
SEXY as all get out....I love the tat and the soft defined muscles
Overall View
Kissing With Fangs is a fun and lighthearted romance that will give you laughs, keep you intrigued by the world building and endearing characters you can relate with. CHARMING!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="24813"]
March 27, 2014
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Anthony and Claudia have been attracted to each other for years. Now, they finally have a chance to be together. If only Anthony’s psycho ex-girlfriend would leave them alone…
Opening Sentence: Anthony closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose in front of the burnt-out wreck that used to be his bar, Boston Uncommon.
The Review:
I hate to say it, but this book really didn’t work for me. I felt no connection to the characters; at times, I even disliked them. The romance felt flat, and in the end, I was left with a general feeling of disappointment.
Anthony and Claudia have been attracted to each other for over five years, pretty much ever since Claudia started working at Anthony’s bar. Anthony never acted on the attraction though because of his ex-girlfriend, an extremely possessive and stalker-like woman who will do anything to get Anthony back. With her being a vampire, that “anything” could include hurting or even killing anyone she perceives as a threat to her goal. So, the attraction was never acted on and then the bar burned down. Anthony figured he would never see Claudia again.
Fate had other plans. One night, Anthony decides to call Claudia, who answers the phone drunk. This leads him to discover that Claudia is an alcoholic. In an effort to help her, Anthony decides to open a tea room rather than another bar. The time they spend together leads them to finally give in to their attraction, which means they have to deal with a very angry ex-girlfriend, as well as the fact that Anthony hasn’t told Claudia that vampires even exist, let alone that he is one. He also has to deal with the rumor that there’s a secret lab somewhere in town that’s kidnapping and experimenting on supernaturals. Will life ever calm down so that Anthony and Claudia can by happy?
While the story moved quickly, it never really clicked for me. Everything just seemed off: the dialogue, the characters and parts of the plot (the secret lab seemed almost an afterthought). I had a hard time believing Claudia as an alcoholic. I work in the alcohol and drug abuse field though, so it’s possible I’m being overly sensitive. Anthony routinely ticked me off, especially when it came to his willingness to mesmerize Claudia in order to keep his secret. That immediately turned me off, and I no longer liked him as the hero.
My last big complaint revolves around the love story itself. The whole transition from admitting attraction to sleeping together to saying “I love you” moved way too fast for me. I need to have some build up in order to really enjoy a romance, and it just wasn’t there for me this time.
Overall, this book just really didn’t work for me. Everything just fell flat. I would guess fans of the first two books will feel differently, but I was highly disappointed and do not plan on going back to read the first two books.
Notable Scene:
“I don’t know why I’m letting you talk me into this.”
“Because Anthony wants you to be safe.”
She rose. “Fine. Let’s go.”
Kurt grabbed his gym bag off the chair beside him and followed her. After he’d rolled up the carpet, he scrubbed the hardwood floor with some clear mixture he’d brought in a mason jar. After that, he poured a circle of salt around both of them. Then he placed various rocks and plants just inside the circle and poured another circle of salt, trapping the various items between the two lines of salt.
“Seems like overkill,” she muttered.
“It’s an extra powerful barrier between you and anyone who wants to harm you.”
“So I have to stand in her anytime the boogeywoman comes after me?”
Kurt laughed. “No. Once the spell is cast, you’ll be protected wherever you go. Well…you’ll see.”
Claudia was through protesting and questioning. She’d do this for Anthony’s peace of mind and no other reason. Wait a minute…she had one more question. “I just thought of something. What if Ruxandra has one of her fits and knocks the candles over? The place could go up in flames–again.”
“Won’t happen. Trust me.”
She took a deep breath and tried to believe he knew what he was doing.
Kurt grabbed his wand and pointed it at the place where the wall met the ceiling. Then he walked around her, speaking more gibberish. She felt ridiculous until she saw a blue light glowing inside the crystal at the tip of the wand.
Hmm…must be some kind of trick of the light. Like a prism or something.
On his last pass, a stream of blue light shot out of the tip, tracing the entire circle, and she gasped.
FTC Advisory: Sourcebooks Casablanca provided me with a copy of Kissing with Fangs. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Anthony and Claudia have been attracted to each other for years. Now, they finally have a chance to be together. If only Anthony’s psycho ex-girlfriend would leave them alone…
Opening Sentence: Anthony closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose in front of the burnt-out wreck that used to be his bar, Boston Uncommon.
The Review:
I hate to say it, but this book really didn’t work for me. I felt no connection to the characters; at times, I even disliked them. The romance felt flat, and in the end, I was left with a general feeling of disappointment.
Anthony and Claudia have been attracted to each other for over five years, pretty much ever since Claudia started working at Anthony’s bar. Anthony never acted on the attraction though because of his ex-girlfriend, an extremely possessive and stalker-like woman who will do anything to get Anthony back. With her being a vampire, that “anything” could include hurting or even killing anyone she perceives as a threat to her goal. So, the attraction was never acted on and then the bar burned down. Anthony figured he would never see Claudia again.
Fate had other plans. One night, Anthony decides to call Claudia, who answers the phone drunk. This leads him to discover that Claudia is an alcoholic. In an effort to help her, Anthony decides to open a tea room rather than another bar. The time they spend together leads them to finally give in to their attraction, which means they have to deal with a very angry ex-girlfriend, as well as the fact that Anthony hasn’t told Claudia that vampires even exist, let alone that he is one. He also has to deal with the rumor that there’s a secret lab somewhere in town that’s kidnapping and experimenting on supernaturals. Will life ever calm down so that Anthony and Claudia can by happy?
While the story moved quickly, it never really clicked for me. Everything just seemed off: the dialogue, the characters and parts of the plot (the secret lab seemed almost an afterthought). I had a hard time believing Claudia as an alcoholic. I work in the alcohol and drug abuse field though, so it’s possible I’m being overly sensitive. Anthony routinely ticked me off, especially when it came to his willingness to mesmerize Claudia in order to keep his secret. That immediately turned me off, and I no longer liked him as the hero.
My last big complaint revolves around the love story itself. The whole transition from admitting attraction to sleeping together to saying “I love you” moved way too fast for me. I need to have some build up in order to really enjoy a romance, and it just wasn’t there for me this time.
Overall, this book just really didn’t work for me. Everything just fell flat. I would guess fans of the first two books will feel differently, but I was highly disappointed and do not plan on going back to read the first two books.
Notable Scene:
“I don’t know why I’m letting you talk me into this.”
“Because Anthony wants you to be safe.”
She rose. “Fine. Let’s go.”
Kurt grabbed his gym bag off the chair beside him and followed her. After he’d rolled up the carpet, he scrubbed the hardwood floor with some clear mixture he’d brought in a mason jar. After that, he poured a circle of salt around both of them. Then he placed various rocks and plants just inside the circle and poured another circle of salt, trapping the various items between the two lines of salt.
“Seems like overkill,” she muttered.
“It’s an extra powerful barrier between you and anyone who wants to harm you.”
“So I have to stand in her anytime the boogeywoman comes after me?”
Kurt laughed. “No. Once the spell is cast, you’ll be protected wherever you go. Well…you’ll see.”
Claudia was through protesting and questioning. She’d do this for Anthony’s peace of mind and no other reason. Wait a minute…she had one more question. “I just thought of something. What if Ruxandra has one of her fits and knocks the candles over? The place could go up in flames–again.”
“Won’t happen. Trust me.”
She took a deep breath and tried to believe he knew what he was doing.
Kurt grabbed his wand and pointed it at the place where the wall met the ceiling. Then he walked around her, speaking more gibberish. She felt ridiculous until she saw a blue light glowing inside the crystal at the tip of the wand.
Hmm…must be some kind of trick of the light. Like a prism or something.
On his last pass, a stream of blue light shot out of the tip, tracing the entire circle, and she gasped.
FTC Advisory: Sourcebooks Casablanca provided me with a copy of Kissing with Fangs. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 14, 2014
Kissing with Fangs is an interesting twist to a paranormal romance. Not only do you have the building romance, but it delves into many other issues as well. The plot includes a battle with alcoholism, a romantic obsession, medical experimentation on non-consenting paranormals and opening a tea room. There is a lot going on in this the final book of Flirting with the Fangs Trilogy.
Kissing with Fangs is a fast paced, entertaining, paranormal romance with interesting characters while taking on a fresh storyline to keep you intrigued.
I received this ARC copy of Kissing with Fangs from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication March 4, 2014.
Written by: Ashlyn Chase
Series: Flirting with Fangs Trilogy
Sequence in Series:3
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: March 4, 2014
ISBN-10: 1402275757
ISBN-13: 978-1402275753
Rating: 3 Stars
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Kissing with Fangs is a fast paced, entertaining, paranormal romance with interesting characters while taking on a fresh storyline to keep you intrigued.
I received this ARC copy of Kissing with Fangs from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication March 4, 2014.
Written by: Ashlyn Chase
Series: Flirting with Fangs Trilogy
Sequence in Series:3
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: March 4, 2014
ISBN-10: 1402275757
ISBN-13: 978-1402275753
Rating: 3 Stars
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
March 18, 2014
3.75 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 4, 2014
Claudia Fletcher has her MBA and a stellar resume, so when the bar she manages burns down, she could easily move on to bigger and better things. But something about the bar owner, Anthony Cross makes it impossible to leave.
Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go…
REVIEW: KISSING WITH FANGS is the third instalment in Ashlyn Chase’s paranormal, adult, romance series Flirting With Fangs-a spin off from her Strange Neighbors Trilogy. Although this is the third in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty-most of the previous storyline and series characters play minor to major roles in the story. The one thing in common is BOSTON UNCOMMON the paranormal bar managed by our heroine Claudia Fletcher and owned by our hero Anthony Cross.
Following the devastating blaze that destroyed the bar, Claudia Fletcher disappears from Anthony’s life. Anthony is a vampire and Claudia is one of the rare humans who was once employed by Boston Uncommon and she knew nothing about the paranormal crowd or their connections to her boss and the man with whom she had fallen in love. When Anthony finally tracks her down, Claudia has a secret she believes will destroy Anthony’s faith in everything that she is.
Anthony Cross is a vampire who was turned several centuries earlier. The paranormal world must keep their identity secret from the human world but it becomes increasingly difficult trying to blend into a world where humans are willing to expose you for a price. When shifters and witches begin to disappear, Anthony and his friends begin a search for the people responsible only to discover that he may have lead them directly to his front door. When he and Claudia embark on a new business adventure together, the people hoping to take them down may have uncovered another hub of paranormal activity.
Anthony and Claudia’s relationship has been developing for close to five years but have ignored the proverbial elephant in the room-their mutual attraction to one another. But Anthony’s secret must remain hidden otherwise he will feel the wrath of Gaia and in doing so, places Claudia’s life in danger from a woman from Anthony’s past.
Kissing With Fangs is the final instalment in the Flirting With Fangs trilogy but there are many more stories to tell and I hope Ashlyn has a story for everyone. If you like a storyline with a little bit of mystery, suspense, romance and sex, then Flirting With Fangs is the read for you. The characters are colorful; their stories of finding love while struggling to survive will pull you in. The world building continues throughout the series with the familiarity of previous storyline characters and scenarios. Anthony and Claudia are definitely relatable –Claudia with her demons and Anthony with his secrets.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 4, 2014
Claudia Fletcher has her MBA and a stellar resume, so when the bar she manages burns down, she could easily move on to bigger and better things. But something about the bar owner, Anthony Cross makes it impossible to leave.
Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go…
REVIEW: KISSING WITH FANGS is the third instalment in Ashlyn Chase’s paranormal, adult, romance series Flirting With Fangs-a spin off from her Strange Neighbors Trilogy. Although this is the third in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty-most of the previous storyline and series characters play minor to major roles in the story. The one thing in common is BOSTON UNCOMMON the paranormal bar managed by our heroine Claudia Fletcher and owned by our hero Anthony Cross.
Following the devastating blaze that destroyed the bar, Claudia Fletcher disappears from Anthony’s life. Anthony is a vampire and Claudia is one of the rare humans who was once employed by Boston Uncommon and she knew nothing about the paranormal crowd or their connections to her boss and the man with whom she had fallen in love. When Anthony finally tracks her down, Claudia has a secret she believes will destroy Anthony’s faith in everything that she is.
Anthony Cross is a vampire who was turned several centuries earlier. The paranormal world must keep their identity secret from the human world but it becomes increasingly difficult trying to blend into a world where humans are willing to expose you for a price. When shifters and witches begin to disappear, Anthony and his friends begin a search for the people responsible only to discover that he may have lead them directly to his front door. When he and Claudia embark on a new business adventure together, the people hoping to take them down may have uncovered another hub of paranormal activity.
Anthony and Claudia’s relationship has been developing for close to five years but have ignored the proverbial elephant in the room-their mutual attraction to one another. But Anthony’s secret must remain hidden otherwise he will feel the wrath of Gaia and in doing so, places Claudia’s life in danger from a woman from Anthony’s past.
Kissing With Fangs is the final instalment in the Flirting With Fangs trilogy but there are many more stories to tell and I hope Ashlyn has a story for everyone. If you like a storyline with a little bit of mystery, suspense, romance and sex, then Flirting With Fangs is the read for you. The characters are colorful; their stories of finding love while struggling to survive will pull you in. The world building continues throughout the series with the familiarity of previous storyline characters and scenarios. Anthony and Claudia are definitely relatable –Claudia with her demons and Anthony with his secrets.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 11, 2014
Ashlyn Chase brings readers the final book in her Flirting With Fangs series, Kissing With Fangs. This book wraps up the series with a neat little bow. All of the questions readers have pondered over are answered as the series comes full circle. Ashlyn Chase fans always enjoy her light paranormal romances and the humor she injects into every book. Kissing With Fangs is not exception, but also deals with some heavy issues like alcoholism and seriously deranged ex-girlfriends. Readers who are looking for something different in the paranormal scheme of things will really enjoy this series!
What I liked:
This series reminds me of a joke. A werewolf, a dragon and a vampire go into a bar... LOL! I loved the fact that each book in the series focused on a different paranormal character, yet they were all interactive. They can all be read as standalone's but that takes so much away from the overall arc of the series. I think Chase knows how to make these supernatural characters seem human, with just a little quirk here and there and that makes them so much more approachable than some paranormal characters.
Readers who have read Ashlyn Chase's Strange Neighbors series, or the first two books in this series, will be quick to tell you that Chase's books are not normal paranormal reads. They are infused with humor. It radiates off the pages and Chase does a fantastic job of making the darker subjects seem light. In Kissing With Fangs one of the main characters has a dark secret, that isn't taken lightly, but humor still plays a part in seeing hope for the future. I love that element of lightness about Chase's writing.
I loved Anthony and Claudia together. Both of them had secrets. She was an alcoholic and he was a vampire. She has her demons, but so does he. They were a perfect match for each other, despite their obvious differences. Anthony has been a very mysterious character in the series up to this point, and I think readers will love finding out more about him here. His bar Boston Uncommon was haven for supernaturals until it burned down. The factions that have been at peace now threaten from every side. I loved Anthony's protective nature. Claudia is posed to become a pawn in the game because of Anthony's affection, but she can stand her ground. She's fighting an addiction, how difficult could warring supernaturals be? It was a super combination that Chase brings to the table.
What I didn't like:
Who am I kidding? I liked everything about this one from the characters to the setting and right down to the psycho ex-girlfriend. It was a light fun read that I would recommend to anyone who likes paranormal romance, but wants something a little different.
Bottom Line:
You gotta read this one!
What I liked:
This series reminds me of a joke. A werewolf, a dragon and a vampire go into a bar... LOL! I loved the fact that each book in the series focused on a different paranormal character, yet they were all interactive. They can all be read as standalone's but that takes so much away from the overall arc of the series. I think Chase knows how to make these supernatural characters seem human, with just a little quirk here and there and that makes them so much more approachable than some paranormal characters.
Readers who have read Ashlyn Chase's Strange Neighbors series, or the first two books in this series, will be quick to tell you that Chase's books are not normal paranormal reads. They are infused with humor. It radiates off the pages and Chase does a fantastic job of making the darker subjects seem light. In Kissing With Fangs one of the main characters has a dark secret, that isn't taken lightly, but humor still plays a part in seeing hope for the future. I love that element of lightness about Chase's writing.
I loved Anthony and Claudia together. Both of them had secrets. She was an alcoholic and he was a vampire. She has her demons, but so does he. They were a perfect match for each other, despite their obvious differences. Anthony has been a very mysterious character in the series up to this point, and I think readers will love finding out more about him here. His bar Boston Uncommon was haven for supernaturals until it burned down. The factions that have been at peace now threaten from every side. I loved Anthony's protective nature. Claudia is posed to become a pawn in the game because of Anthony's affection, but she can stand her ground. She's fighting an addiction, how difficult could warring supernaturals be? It was a super combination that Chase brings to the table.
What I didn't like:
Who am I kidding? I liked everything about this one from the characters to the setting and right down to the psycho ex-girlfriend. It was a light fun read that I would recommend to anyone who likes paranormal romance, but wants something a little different.
Bottom Line:
You gotta read this one!
August 20, 2024
Think Disney Halloween special from the 90's with a little bit of spice..
March 1, 2014
Reviews & more @ http://lipsyy.wordpress.com
Anyone who knows me will probably be surprised when I say that I've never actually read any Vampire Erotica before. No, seriously. Unless you include Slash Fiction...which I don't! ;) So when I saw this on NetGalley I thought I'd give it a go, and although I didn't LOVE LOVE it, I'm glad I did.
The story isn't bad, and the writing isn't bad either, it's just a bit too...shallow...for my liking.
Vampire meets girl, girl is an alcoholic bar manager so Vampire coverts bar into teashop. Vampire's Vampire ex is a crazy stalker bitch who doesn't like girl very much. 'Paranormals' are being experimented on, so Vampire and his 'Para' friends must stop them which is quite difficult when all he wants to do is have his wicked way with girl.
Don't get me wrong, I love a bit of light-hearted trashy lit now and again, and this did satisfy that but I wanted more. More than anything, I wanted Anthony to be a better, hotter vampire. I mean he seemed pretty good at Teh Sex, but he was a lame vampire. There was no mystery or danger about him, in fact, if I hadn't been told, I wouldn't have believed he was a vampire at all. He didn't drink anyone's blood, he didn't have any bloodlust, and he didn't even see fit to do away with his stalker ex who was threatening to kill his 'beloved'. Rubbish.
But, I did enjoy parts of Kissing with Fangs. It was a quick read with some nice touches (err hello, Merman!) and I definitely wouldn't be put off reading more in the series/from the author (just less of the 'she worried her lip' please!).
Disclosure?: I received an Advanced Review Copy from the author/publisher via Netgalley. Many Thanks!
Title: Kissing With Fangs
Author: Ashlyn Chase
Details: Paperback, e-book, 384 pages
Expected publication: March 4th 2014 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
My Rating: 2/5
Anyone who knows me will probably be surprised when I say that I've never actually read any Vampire Erotica before. No, seriously. Unless you include Slash Fiction...which I don't! ;) So when I saw this on NetGalley I thought I'd give it a go, and although I didn't LOVE LOVE it, I'm glad I did.
The story isn't bad, and the writing isn't bad either, it's just a bit too...shallow...for my liking.
Vampire meets girl, girl is an alcoholic bar manager so Vampire coverts bar into teashop. Vampire's Vampire ex is a crazy stalker bitch who doesn't like girl very much. 'Paranormals' are being experimented on, so Vampire and his 'Para' friends must stop them which is quite difficult when all he wants to do is have his wicked way with girl.
Don't get me wrong, I love a bit of light-hearted trashy lit now and again, and this did satisfy that but I wanted more. More than anything, I wanted Anthony to be a better, hotter vampire. I mean he seemed pretty good at Teh Sex, but he was a lame vampire. There was no mystery or danger about him, in fact, if I hadn't been told, I wouldn't have believed he was a vampire at all. He didn't drink anyone's blood, he didn't have any bloodlust, and he didn't even see fit to do away with his stalker ex who was threatening to kill his 'beloved'. Rubbish.
But, I did enjoy parts of Kissing with Fangs. It was a quick read with some nice touches (err hello, Merman!) and I definitely wouldn't be put off reading more in the series/from the author (just less of the 'she worried her lip' please!).
Disclosure?: I received an Advanced Review Copy from the author/publisher via Netgalley. Many Thanks!
Title: Kissing With Fangs
Author: Ashlyn Chase
Details: Paperback, e-book, 384 pages
Expected publication: March 4th 2014 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
My Rating: 2/5
March 17, 2014
I am adoring this series! I love dragons and avidly search for books that have them, so when I found "How to Date a Dragon" by Ashlyn Chase I pounced on it and enjoyed it so much that I went searching for more books by Ashlyn. I LOVED this book too! When the Manager of the bar that burned down from How to Date a Dragon has to find a new job, her weaknesses come to the front. Claudia has problems that are needing immediate attention, add to that the fact that she will no longer be able to see the bar owner, Anthony Cross, any more and the bottom just dropped out of her world. For Claudia has been secretly in love with Anthony for 5 years. Anthony would do anything for Claudia because he has held the secret of his love since the day he first met her. And so to help his beloved grasp onto the world again he joins with her to help design a new business with her as it's manager. And now to keep Claudia safe from his raging ex-lover. And a secret he must keep to save Claudia from any further stress~Anthony is a vampire. His friends are paranormals and his ex can kill Claudia without breaking a nail...or can she? Be prepared to join a thrill ride with unforeseen ups and downs. And break out your laugh~o~meter. This one keeps you guessing till the very end!
September 13, 2014
I love this series of books by Ms. Chase. In this one the world she creates with vampires, werewolves, mermen, dragons, witches, plus more entertains and delights with action, romance and great characters. I'm not fond of the ending. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I'll stop there. That said, I'll be first in line to read the next one.
November 20, 2014
I was really into this book for nearly the entire thing, but the ending went downhill fast. Ruxie doing a complete personality flip and her and Kurt already loving each other? So no realistic.
The last character was just plain stupid. Gaia going to pretty much every damn character in the book and giving them commands.
The last character was just plain stupid. Gaia going to pretty much every damn character in the book and giving them commands.
August 21, 2015
WTF did I just read? This read like something a teenager would write. Way too light, fluffy and feeling fake and rushed. I love vampire books but this one I want to soon forget and I hated the ending. Why do vampire books if you're just going to turn them back into human. Everything was tied into a nice neat bow *sigh* Just not for me. 0.5 stars
March 7, 2014
A series comes to an end with this third book in the trilogy and as always I am bittersweet about it. This set of light paranormal romances kept me entertained from the slew of vampires, witches, shifters, and even gods and goddesses to the flirty dialogues to the fun lightly dangerous adventures. I confess that it isn't the most impactive series I've read, but it wasn't meant to be. The aim based on what I could tell was to offer enough conflict to keep things interesting both with the romance and the action side of the plot without crossing over too far into the 'keeping it real' end of the spectrum.
This was Anthony's story. He's a very old vampire, but he is one of the good guys. He has been a regular character since the beginning and he owned the establishment where everyone meets, Boston Uncommon, and he was also the guy that many people relied on when they got into a pinch. Poor Anthony had a secret crush on Claudia, the human day manager for his business, but he always had to hide his feelings because he has an over the top, wildly stalkerish and lethally jealous ex-girlfriend, Ruxandra.
With the burning down of Boston Uncommon in the last book, Anthony and everyone else who worked and came to the bar are slightly at loose ends. Anthony has lost touch with Claudia, but it is a strong hint from his psychic Aunt Sadie that he goes to check on her. Anthony finds Claudia one big hot mess and her secret is out. Claudia is a functioning alcoholic and has been for years. The loss of her steady employment at the bar was the thing that pushed her over into binging. But with Anthony's visit and a surprise visit from her concerned parents, it is enough to snap her out of it and push her to join AA and work hard to get sober.
Anthony is right there for Claudia and even changes his plans to re-open the bar to opening a tea house just so he can keep Claudia with him and keep providing a place for paranormals to meet. He also takes this opportunity to finally come out in the open with his interest in having a relationship with Claudia. Now he just has to find a way to tell her what he is without freaking her out.
Meanwhile, Nick, Kurt and Toby are investigating the disappearance of several paranormals. They learn from one who barely escaped that there is a lab where humans are experimenting on paranormals that they have somehow found a way to capture.
Claudia is happier than she has ever been now that Anthony is her boyfriend. She has loved him for five years and it amazes her that he was interested in her too. She has a sponsor now who guides her as she works through the Twelve Steps and getting sober. Part of what she is learning is that she needs to keep things stress-free and she's not supposed to be in a relationship during the early days. Claudia insists that Anthony is a support and bright spot and she's not cutting him loose. Then doubt sets in... Unfortunately, Anthony's Ex coming around and threatening all the time leaving her wondering if Anthony is still secretly with her because where does he disappear to each day? And at the very least she wonders if its beyond anyone including Anthony's ability to get rid of Ruxandra short of murder. Maybe she should just give him up? How many chances should she give him?
I've been anticipating Anthony's story since I heard about who was getting the third book. He was a favorite supporting character all the way through the series. He always kept his cool and he selflessly helped everyone else while he pined away after Claudia. I felt his frustration- even as I laughed through some scenes- each time the crazed Ruxandra made an appearance like a spoiled child which she sort of is because Anthony made her vampire. A romantic relationship didn't work and he has no spark of interest in her, but can't seem to get her to see that. I laughed when he and Kurt started plotting to get Ruxandra's fixation off him and protect Claudia.
Claudia wasn't as developed of a character in the previous books so it was only in this book that I got to know her. I liked what I saw of her in this one. I'm always appreciative of a character who has something big to overcome and they do it. Claudia was also stable and strong when it comes to supporting Boston Uncommon and her friends. When it came to Anthony, she was more than patient and understanding considering his Ex seemed homicidal and he couldn't seem to get rid of her. Her concerns are valid there. She had some weak moments, but she had a lot thrown at her too. I was glad that she loved Anthony and was good for him too.
I was only moderately impressed with the broader plot. I liked it, I liked Anthony and Claudia together- quite the passionate yummy pair actually, but it didn't really grab me from cover to cover.
I felt there were pacing issues where things where strongly engaging and clipping along, but then would slow down for a side trail. Much of it was just because this book was tackling all the wrap-up threads with all the characters and their stories since this is the finale. For instance, there are two secondary romances going on besides the experimentation plot, Claudia's character growth with the alcoholism plot and Anthony and Claudia's relationship. One romance only gets minor representation, but the other is pretty significant. A lot going on. Not a bad thing per se, but it kept things from being tight and sharp with the focus. I honestly would have loved seeing some of it maybe touched on here and then given its own book or novella so it didn't detract from Anthony and Claudia.
Normally, I love it when author's tie up loose ends and I wanted that here. That being said, I found the extended Gaia (Mother Nature) scenes where she literally is just going over rules for the paranormals in her mother to children stricturing tone not very attention grabbing. It is probably meant to be funny, but I was just 'meh' watching her lecture grown capable people for the last few pages. Fortunately it wrapped up with a final absolutely adorable scene with Anthony and Claudia to leave me smiling.
All in all, its an amusing series that lovers of light paranormal romance that gets just a tad spicy will get a kick out of.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for my honest review thoughts.
This was Anthony's story. He's a very old vampire, but he is one of the good guys. He has been a regular character since the beginning and he owned the establishment where everyone meets, Boston Uncommon, and he was also the guy that many people relied on when they got into a pinch. Poor Anthony had a secret crush on Claudia, the human day manager for his business, but he always had to hide his feelings because he has an over the top, wildly stalkerish and lethally jealous ex-girlfriend, Ruxandra.
With the burning down of Boston Uncommon in the last book, Anthony and everyone else who worked and came to the bar are slightly at loose ends. Anthony has lost touch with Claudia, but it is a strong hint from his psychic Aunt Sadie that he goes to check on her. Anthony finds Claudia one big hot mess and her secret is out. Claudia is a functioning alcoholic and has been for years. The loss of her steady employment at the bar was the thing that pushed her over into binging. But with Anthony's visit and a surprise visit from her concerned parents, it is enough to snap her out of it and push her to join AA and work hard to get sober.
Anthony is right there for Claudia and even changes his plans to re-open the bar to opening a tea house just so he can keep Claudia with him and keep providing a place for paranormals to meet. He also takes this opportunity to finally come out in the open with his interest in having a relationship with Claudia. Now he just has to find a way to tell her what he is without freaking her out.
Meanwhile, Nick, Kurt and Toby are investigating the disappearance of several paranormals. They learn from one who barely escaped that there is a lab where humans are experimenting on paranormals that they have somehow found a way to capture.
Claudia is happier than she has ever been now that Anthony is her boyfriend. She has loved him for five years and it amazes her that he was interested in her too. She has a sponsor now who guides her as she works through the Twelve Steps and getting sober. Part of what she is learning is that she needs to keep things stress-free and she's not supposed to be in a relationship during the early days. Claudia insists that Anthony is a support and bright spot and she's not cutting him loose. Then doubt sets in... Unfortunately, Anthony's Ex coming around and threatening all the time leaving her wondering if Anthony is still secretly with her because where does he disappear to each day? And at the very least she wonders if its beyond anyone including Anthony's ability to get rid of Ruxandra short of murder. Maybe she should just give him up? How many chances should she give him?
I've been anticipating Anthony's story since I heard about who was getting the third book. He was a favorite supporting character all the way through the series. He always kept his cool and he selflessly helped everyone else while he pined away after Claudia. I felt his frustration- even as I laughed through some scenes- each time the crazed Ruxandra made an appearance like a spoiled child which she sort of is because Anthony made her vampire. A romantic relationship didn't work and he has no spark of interest in her, but can't seem to get her to see that. I laughed when he and Kurt started plotting to get Ruxandra's fixation off him and protect Claudia.
Claudia wasn't as developed of a character in the previous books so it was only in this book that I got to know her. I liked what I saw of her in this one. I'm always appreciative of a character who has something big to overcome and they do it. Claudia was also stable and strong when it comes to supporting Boston Uncommon and her friends. When it came to Anthony, she was more than patient and understanding considering his Ex seemed homicidal and he couldn't seem to get rid of her. Her concerns are valid there. She had some weak moments, but she had a lot thrown at her too. I was glad that she loved Anthony and was good for him too.
I was only moderately impressed with the broader plot. I liked it, I liked Anthony and Claudia together- quite the passionate yummy pair actually, but it didn't really grab me from cover to cover.
I felt there were pacing issues where things where strongly engaging and clipping along, but then would slow down for a side trail. Much of it was just because this book was tackling all the wrap-up threads with all the characters and their stories since this is the finale. For instance, there are two secondary romances going on besides the experimentation plot, Claudia's character growth with the alcoholism plot and Anthony and Claudia's relationship. One romance only gets minor representation, but the other is pretty significant. A lot going on. Not a bad thing per se, but it kept things from being tight and sharp with the focus. I honestly would have loved seeing some of it maybe touched on here and then given its own book or novella so it didn't detract from Anthony and Claudia.
Normally, I love it when author's tie up loose ends and I wanted that here. That being said, I found the extended Gaia (Mother Nature) scenes where she literally is just going over rules for the paranormals in her mother to children stricturing tone not very attention grabbing. It is probably meant to be funny, but I was just 'meh' watching her lecture grown capable people for the last few pages. Fortunately it wrapped up with a final absolutely adorable scene with Anthony and Claudia to leave me smiling.
All in all, its an amusing series that lovers of light paranormal romance that gets just a tad spicy will get a kick out of.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for my honest review thoughts.
November 26, 2018
There are very few books that I give one star to but this is one of them. From the super long drown out story to the shitty ending. This book had so much added details that in the end made no difference because it was just erased from the main characters memories. Like what was the point in learning all about it? I loved the strange neighbors series and the first book of this series but the last two just kind of fell flat especially at the endings. Hugh disappointment. From the looks of this series I won’t enjoy the next ones. Though I do like that they all seem to be spin offs each other just wish the last two hadn’t sucked so badly...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2022
The fake of Boston Uncommon Bar and two love stories are told in this book. That’s right, Claudia and Anthony have their moment to shine as do Kurt and Ruxandra. Featuring cameos from lots of previous books, a mystery of kidnapped paranormals, and a surprising happily ever after this book is a stand alone in a lot of ways but also important to the overall timeline of the extended universe when it comes to certain things like the founding of the paranormal club and Anthony dropping from the main story line.
January 2, 2019
Finally Claudia and Anthony's story. I must admit I did not love it as much as the first two in the trilogy but it was not the worst thing ever. It just fell a little flat for me. Overall a good story because of the past characters in this world and I am glad they got their HEA!
December 14, 2017
Loved this book!!
December 1, 2023
Great book great series!
March 25, 2014
A lighthearted paranormal romance that is both hilarious and heartwarming! Actually rated 4.5! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Anthony Cross’ bar, Boston Uncommon, is a meeting place for the paranormal beings in the city. Being a vampire, he is only able to run the business at night. During the day, his manager, Claudia, a human, takes over. But she has no idea that he is a vampire. Although Anthony is attracted to Claudia, paranormal rules forbid him to have a romance with a human. Additionally, his evilly jealous ex-girlfriend Ruxandra, who is also a vampire, is one of the reasons he keeps his distance from Claudia. Recently, his bar burnt down. Now, with the disappearance of several witches and shifters and the discovery that a few local scientists have uncovered the existence of paranormal creatures, it has become more important than ever that Anthony rebuild the bar.
Claudia loves her job at the bar, but with its destruction and her subsequent depression, her drinking problem has come to light. She had managed to stay sober while working, but would resort to the bottle after hours. However, with the bar and her job gone, she sinks into a drunken depression. She has long been in love with her boss Anthony and is curious about where he spends his days.
Anthony is shocked when he uncovers Claudia’s secret, but he quickly comes to her rescue. With his two favorite women, Claudia and his Aunt Sadie, out of work now, and realizing Claudia’s drinking problem, Anthony decides to make his new business a tearoom, instead of a bar. This new venture will keep Claudia from being in constant contact with booze and give his aunt tea leaves to read. He would love to explore his feelings for Claudia, even though it is against the rules. Not only is he not supposed to get romantically involved with humans, he is not allowed to even let them know of the existence of paranormal creatures. Besides having a relationship with Claudia will put her right in the crosshairs of his murderous ex. However, it doesn’t take long for things to heat up between them and as they do, Anthony feels that he owes Claudia the truth about who and what he is. But will he be able to protect her from the consequences of his actions? Will she be able to accept him as he is, or will this destroy any relationship they might have in the future?
A fun story, KISSING WITH FANGS, the third and final book in gifted author Ashlyn Chase’s FLIRTING WITH FANGS series, combines mystery, romance and suspense in this delightfully clever paranormal tale. As it beautifully wraps up the series, fans will be reunited with the characters from the previous books. I enjoyed watching Anthony and Claudia deal with her problems as the two grew closer and the sparks flew. The friendship of these two with the other paranormal beings was heartwarming and hilarious.
Secrets, alcoholism, AA, a meddling Mother Nature, a plethora of paranormal beings, plot twists, danger, sizzling sensuality, tender romance and love combine to give readers a very enjoyable read. Ms. Chase is launching a new series, starting with THE CUPCAKE COVEN, which releases in May. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Ms. Chase comes up with next. If you have not read any of the Ms. Chase’s FLIRTING WITH FANGS books, take my advice and give this one a try. It can be read as a standalone, although I am sure that after reading it you will seek out the rest. This is an entertaining story you will not want to miss!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Anthony Cross’ bar, Boston Uncommon, is a meeting place for the paranormal beings in the city. Being a vampire, he is only able to run the business at night. During the day, his manager, Claudia, a human, takes over. But she has no idea that he is a vampire. Although Anthony is attracted to Claudia, paranormal rules forbid him to have a romance with a human. Additionally, his evilly jealous ex-girlfriend Ruxandra, who is also a vampire, is one of the reasons he keeps his distance from Claudia. Recently, his bar burnt down. Now, with the disappearance of several witches and shifters and the discovery that a few local scientists have uncovered the existence of paranormal creatures, it has become more important than ever that Anthony rebuild the bar.
Claudia loves her job at the bar, but with its destruction and her subsequent depression, her drinking problem has come to light. She had managed to stay sober while working, but would resort to the bottle after hours. However, with the bar and her job gone, she sinks into a drunken depression. She has long been in love with her boss Anthony and is curious about where he spends his days.
Anthony is shocked when he uncovers Claudia’s secret, but he quickly comes to her rescue. With his two favorite women, Claudia and his Aunt Sadie, out of work now, and realizing Claudia’s drinking problem, Anthony decides to make his new business a tearoom, instead of a bar. This new venture will keep Claudia from being in constant contact with booze and give his aunt tea leaves to read. He would love to explore his feelings for Claudia, even though it is against the rules. Not only is he not supposed to get romantically involved with humans, he is not allowed to even let them know of the existence of paranormal creatures. Besides having a relationship with Claudia will put her right in the crosshairs of his murderous ex. However, it doesn’t take long for things to heat up between them and as they do, Anthony feels that he owes Claudia the truth about who and what he is. But will he be able to protect her from the consequences of his actions? Will she be able to accept him as he is, or will this destroy any relationship they might have in the future?
A fun story, KISSING WITH FANGS, the third and final book in gifted author Ashlyn Chase’s FLIRTING WITH FANGS series, combines mystery, romance and suspense in this delightfully clever paranormal tale. As it beautifully wraps up the series, fans will be reunited with the characters from the previous books. I enjoyed watching Anthony and Claudia deal with her problems as the two grew closer and the sparks flew. The friendship of these two with the other paranormal beings was heartwarming and hilarious.
Secrets, alcoholism, AA, a meddling Mother Nature, a plethora of paranormal beings, plot twists, danger, sizzling sensuality, tender romance and love combine to give readers a very enjoyable read. Ms. Chase is launching a new series, starting with THE CUPCAKE COVEN, which releases in May. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Ms. Chase comes up with next. If you have not read any of the Ms. Chase’s FLIRTING WITH FANGS books, take my advice and give this one a try. It can be read as a standalone, although I am sure that after reading it you will seek out the rest. This is an entertaining story you will not want to miss!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
March 4, 2014
I have to start by saying that this is the third book in the Flirting With Fangs trilogy and unfortunately I hadn't realised that originally so my review will obviously reflect that. Is this a standalone? Well yes because I understood the story but certainly events and characters from previous books did somewhat shape the storyline here. I think if this is your sort of book then maybe reading in order would be the better choice.
Claudia is a woman with a secret, Caudia is an alcoholic ! O she's technically a functioning alcoholic but sometimes fighting your own inner demons is a lonely business. Not only that but she works at a bar and unfortunately that bar Boston Uncommon has just been badly damaged by fire and now she's out of work! O and she's been secretly in love with her boss Anthony for what feels like forever but thats never going to come to anything,is it?
Secrets abound though as Anthony is a vampire who ran his bar Boston Uncommon as a place for other Supernaturals to meet . With Boston Uncommon in ashes the fragile truce that exists between rival factions is in danger but the supernatural community itself is under attack and Claudia and Anthony are slap bang in the middle of it! Anthony has tried to protect Claudia from his crazy ex girlfriend but sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants and Anthony doesn't want to hide his feelings for Claudia anymore . What should be a happy time as Anthony and Claudia take their first steps towards being a couple is tainted though as Supernaturals are going missing and those with the greatest powers are plotting against Anthony. Can Claudia trust herself to let Anthony completely in? If she does what will happen when.she realises that the man she loves isn't really a man at all but something far more deadly?
This has a great storyline and I really liked the plot as it felt different to other paranormal romances available . Lots of characters in this book and I particularly enjoyed reading about the quirky wizard and the meddling Gods but I feel that by not reading the other books in this series I have somewhat missed out. I love that the author has given the heroine Claudia a very real problem to deal with and that she has flaws. No one is perfect and sometimes too many authors forget this. Anthony is protective but not overbearing or demanding and that made a nice change from so many other alpha males in fiction recently .
This was an entertaining read and probably ideal for those readers who enjoy light paranormal romances written with humour. It's a sweet love story but somewhat lacked any real passion for me but I realise that a sensuous story will be a hit with many readers . I enjoyed the storyline and it was fun reading about the Gods as well as the usual paranormal types but for me personally something was lacking. I really wanted to love this and it was unfortunate that I'd missed the other books in this series. I'm struggling with rating this but to be fair would say four
Claudia is a woman with a secret, Caudia is an alcoholic ! O she's technically a functioning alcoholic but sometimes fighting your own inner demons is a lonely business. Not only that but she works at a bar and unfortunately that bar Boston Uncommon has just been badly damaged by fire and now she's out of work! O and she's been secretly in love with her boss Anthony for what feels like forever but thats never going to come to anything,is it?
Secrets abound though as Anthony is a vampire who ran his bar Boston Uncommon as a place for other Supernaturals to meet . With Boston Uncommon in ashes the fragile truce that exists between rival factions is in danger but the supernatural community itself is under attack and Claudia and Anthony are slap bang in the middle of it! Anthony has tried to protect Claudia from his crazy ex girlfriend but sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants and Anthony doesn't want to hide his feelings for Claudia anymore . What should be a happy time as Anthony and Claudia take their first steps towards being a couple is tainted though as Supernaturals are going missing and those with the greatest powers are plotting against Anthony. Can Claudia trust herself to let Anthony completely in? If she does what will happen when.she realises that the man she loves isn't really a man at all but something far more deadly?
This has a great storyline and I really liked the plot as it felt different to other paranormal romances available . Lots of characters in this book and I particularly enjoyed reading about the quirky wizard and the meddling Gods but I feel that by not reading the other books in this series I have somewhat missed out. I love that the author has given the heroine Claudia a very real problem to deal with and that she has flaws. No one is perfect and sometimes too many authors forget this. Anthony is protective but not overbearing or demanding and that made a nice change from so many other alpha males in fiction recently .
This was an entertaining read and probably ideal for those readers who enjoy light paranormal romances written with humour. It's a sweet love story but somewhat lacked any real passion for me but I realise that a sensuous story will be a hit with many readers . I enjoyed the storyline and it was fun reading about the Gods as well as the usual paranormal types but for me personally something was lacking. I really wanted to love this and it was unfortunate that I'd missed the other books in this series. I'm struggling with rating this but to be fair would say four
August 11, 2016
Setting: Boston Uncommon, bar, burned (by Mother Nature) – a place for supernaturals to meet; her apartment (run down);
Theme:
Characters:
Claudia Fletcher: business degree; waitress to manager at the bar for five years; somewhat clutzy; quiet alcoholic; attracted to Anthony, but respected his obvious boundaries;
Anthony Cross: vampire (couple of hundred years old); millionaire; envisions a place where supernaturals who want to can meet, and make friends; opens bar; attracted to Claudia but fears ex girlfriend Ruxandra would hurt her, so keeps hands off;
Ruxandra Marie Fournier: Anthony found her dying; prostitute; he turned her; he trained her, they were cohabitating for about 100 years, but fought a lot… Anthony leaves her, she tracks him down… she is obsessed with him, and threatens anyone he might be interested in;
Aunt Sadie: a remote cousin of Anthony; precognition; reads tea leaves;
Troy Montana: football player; coyote shapeshifter, bouncer; looking for where the shapeshifters are disappearing to;
Maynard et al: studying supernaturals (just like rats) for what can be taken to enhance humans; not cruel, but sees them as animal test subjects; once found out, Anthony mesmerizes staff to believe they are developing an all purpose sex doll… hmmmm; use a strong sedative to capture them;
Kurt Morgan: wizard; working with Troy to find out who is taking supernaturals; offers to distract Ruxandra, giving Anthony time with Claudia; gives Claudia a protection spell; finds out that Ruxandra is his lifemate…
Mother Nature aka Gaia aka goddess: top priority, keep knowledge of supernaturals away from humans… burned down bar, because getting too many supernaturals together, and thus increasing possibility human patrons will figure it out; seems a bit more open to tea room;
Summary:
Anthony gets drunk call from Claudia, and goes to make sure she is okay… he is still attracted to her, and wants to connect – he offers her a job, helping him get the bar up and running – though they decide on a tea room instead (some leap !?!)… she starts in AA – is cautious about Anthony and their growing relationship… and Ruxandria throws in a wrench… but they date, they get to know one another, they kiss… and after months, after tearoom opens, they make love…
Then Ruxandria lets out of the bag Anthony’s vampirism… Mother Nature steps in, and wants her promise of not discussing it with anyone… they find the lab, and free the supernaturals, and through mind control get them to forget their research, and to work on sex doll projects…
And Anthony wants to be human… but doesn’t want to give up his friends (hmmm?)… so Mother Nature agrees… has a talk with his friends, and they agree to hang out at the tearoom and be friends without ever talking about supernatural things… and Anthony and Claudia wake up in the park, with a picnic basket… and he’s hungry… hmmmm
Theme:
Characters:
Claudia Fletcher: business degree; waitress to manager at the bar for five years; somewhat clutzy; quiet alcoholic; attracted to Anthony, but respected his obvious boundaries;
Anthony Cross: vampire (couple of hundred years old); millionaire; envisions a place where supernaturals who want to can meet, and make friends; opens bar; attracted to Claudia but fears ex girlfriend Ruxandra would hurt her, so keeps hands off;
Ruxandra Marie Fournier: Anthony found her dying; prostitute; he turned her; he trained her, they were cohabitating for about 100 years, but fought a lot… Anthony leaves her, she tracks him down… she is obsessed with him, and threatens anyone he might be interested in;
Aunt Sadie: a remote cousin of Anthony; precognition; reads tea leaves;
Troy Montana: football player; coyote shapeshifter, bouncer; looking for where the shapeshifters are disappearing to;
Maynard et al: studying supernaturals (just like rats) for what can be taken to enhance humans; not cruel, but sees them as animal test subjects; once found out, Anthony mesmerizes staff to believe they are developing an all purpose sex doll… hmmmm; use a strong sedative to capture them;
Kurt Morgan: wizard; working with Troy to find out who is taking supernaturals; offers to distract Ruxandra, giving Anthony time with Claudia; gives Claudia a protection spell; finds out that Ruxandra is his lifemate…
Mother Nature aka Gaia aka goddess: top priority, keep knowledge of supernaturals away from humans… burned down bar, because getting too many supernaturals together, and thus increasing possibility human patrons will figure it out; seems a bit more open to tea room;
Summary:
Anthony gets drunk call from Claudia, and goes to make sure she is okay… he is still attracted to her, and wants to connect – he offers her a job, helping him get the bar up and running – though they decide on a tea room instead (some leap !?!)… she starts in AA – is cautious about Anthony and their growing relationship… and Ruxandria throws in a wrench… but they date, they get to know one another, they kiss… and after months, after tearoom opens, they make love…
Then Ruxandria lets out of the bag Anthony’s vampirism… Mother Nature steps in, and wants her promise of not discussing it with anyone… they find the lab, and free the supernaturals, and through mind control get them to forget their research, and to work on sex doll projects…
And Anthony wants to be human… but doesn’t want to give up his friends (hmmm?)… so Mother Nature agrees… has a talk with his friends, and they agree to hang out at the tearoom and be friends without ever talking about supernatural things… and Anthony and Claudia wake up in the park, with a picnic basket… and he’s hungry… hmmmm
June 28, 2015
Reviewed by Nadene R.
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Have you ever read a book and when it ended you were at a lost as to what to write in your review? Kissing with Fangs was that book for me. When I first saw the title I was eager to read this book due to my fascination with all things paranormal, so I was rather excited when I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kissing with Fangs is the third book (which I was not aware of) in the Flirting with Fangs trilogy, however it can be read as a stand-alone. In this story we meet Anthony, the owner and operator of a bar located in the Boston Uncommon. He is also a vampire. He had started the bar, because he wanted to create a safe haven where all paranormal beings could meet and socialize without any interference from the human world. This was a bit ironic as he had humans working for him who had no idea that the bar patrons were paranormal beings. It was one of these humans that he would find himself falling in love with. From the first day that Claudia, a human, came to work for him he was drawn to her however he refrained from acting on his feelings for fear that his crazy ex, Ruxandra would try and hurt Claudia in one of her jealous rages.
Claudia is a very likable character. She is not your typical romance heroine. She had real life struggles which readers can relate to. She is not afraid to acknowledge that she has a problem with alcoholism and is willing to take the steps needed to deal with her problem. It was after the destruction of his beloved bar that Anthony became aware that Claudia had this problem which did not change his feelings for her. He is very supportive of her and is willing to help her deal with her problem even if it meant not rebuilding the bar as he did not want her to leave.
There are several events taking place in this story, abduction of paranormal beings for research purposes, in addition to the romance between the main characters there is a romance developing between four other characters. Not much focus was given to the romance between the secondary characters. I was hoping that they would have gotten their own story, but unfortunately this is not to be, as based on information floating around on the World Wide Web this is the final book in the series.
Kissing with Fangs is not your typical paranormal romance. In this story we see all paranormal beings getting along and forging friendships.
My feelings on this title are a bit mixed. There are parts I liked but there are also parts that I found lacking. The story lagged in some parts, I figured it’s due to the fact that so many things were happening all at once and as such the thrill that I was expecting to derive from the main theme was lacking. My favorite part of the story is the romance between Anthony and Claudia which depicted the lengths that one is willing to go to protect and support the one they love.
For me this was an ok read.
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Have you ever read a book and when it ended you were at a lost as to what to write in your review? Kissing with Fangs was that book for me. When I first saw the title I was eager to read this book due to my fascination with all things paranormal, so I was rather excited when I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kissing with Fangs is the third book (which I was not aware of) in the Flirting with Fangs trilogy, however it can be read as a stand-alone. In this story we meet Anthony, the owner and operator of a bar located in the Boston Uncommon. He is also a vampire. He had started the bar, because he wanted to create a safe haven where all paranormal beings could meet and socialize without any interference from the human world. This was a bit ironic as he had humans working for him who had no idea that the bar patrons were paranormal beings. It was one of these humans that he would find himself falling in love with. From the first day that Claudia, a human, came to work for him he was drawn to her however he refrained from acting on his feelings for fear that his crazy ex, Ruxandra would try and hurt Claudia in one of her jealous rages.
Claudia is a very likable character. She is not your typical romance heroine. She had real life struggles which readers can relate to. She is not afraid to acknowledge that she has a problem with alcoholism and is willing to take the steps needed to deal with her problem. It was after the destruction of his beloved bar that Anthony became aware that Claudia had this problem which did not change his feelings for her. He is very supportive of her and is willing to help her deal with her problem even if it meant not rebuilding the bar as he did not want her to leave.
There are several events taking place in this story, abduction of paranormal beings for research purposes, in addition to the romance between the main characters there is a romance developing between four other characters. Not much focus was given to the romance between the secondary characters. I was hoping that they would have gotten their own story, but unfortunately this is not to be, as based on information floating around on the World Wide Web this is the final book in the series.
Kissing with Fangs is not your typical paranormal romance. In this story we see all paranormal beings getting along and forging friendships.
My feelings on this title are a bit mixed. There are parts I liked but there are also parts that I found lacking. The story lagged in some parts, I figured it’s due to the fact that so many things were happening all at once and as such the thrill that I was expecting to derive from the main theme was lacking. My favorite part of the story is the romance between Anthony and Claudia which depicted the lengths that one is willing to go to protect and support the one they love.
For me this was an ok read.
March 27, 2014
Anthony plans on rebuilding his bar that burned down so the paranormals in the area have a safe meeting place and he's hoping he can talk Claudia into coming to work for him again because although he's not supposed to, he's got it bad for her.
Claudia isn't sure she can work at the bar again when she finds out that her boss is going to rebuild because she's been keeping a secret. Well, if the truth be told, she's been keeping two secrets and one of them is that she's been lusting after her boss for a long time.
Vampire's, shifters and wizards, oh my!
I am a sucker for a good vampire romance but when you throw in some other paranormals, it's all that much better. The more the merrier I say. I've slowly been making my way through this series and have been loving every single book I've read. But I've been a fan of Ashlyn's books for a very long time.
Anthony and Claudia make a great couple and they battled a couple of very hard topics, alcoholism and a crazy ex-girlfriend. Some might not think that the crazy, stalker ex girlfriend would be as big a deal as being an alcoholic but anyone who's had to deal with a stalker will tell you otherwise. I really thought both topics were dealt with in a good way and I like that we see people who have real, everyday problems because that always makes a character easier to relate with. It also makes the book more realistic even when you're reading about vampires.
Speaking of great characters, let's talk Gaia for a moment. I love her character and love how she pops up in so many books. At first I thought she was kind of a hard ass but I've grown to love her and can see she does care for those she interacts with.
Along with rebuilding his bar, trying to start a relationship with a human and keeping his crazy ex girlfriend away, he is also trying to find out who is kidnapping paranormals. There's so much going on in this book that it was never boring. Something new and exciting is always happening, which made it a real page turner.
If you've been reading this series and were hoping to find out more about Anthony, this is the book you've been waiting for. We get to know him a lot more and find out he's been dealing with a lot of secrets, the biggest one is keeping humans from finding out he's a vampire or that other paranormals come to his bar to meet.
If you're looking for a great vampire romance, a mystery to solve or a great love story then this is the book you want to read because it has all of that and more.
Claudia isn't sure she can work at the bar again when she finds out that her boss is going to rebuild because she's been keeping a secret. Well, if the truth be told, she's been keeping two secrets and one of them is that she's been lusting after her boss for a long time.
Vampire's, shifters and wizards, oh my!
I am a sucker for a good vampire romance but when you throw in some other paranormals, it's all that much better. The more the merrier I say. I've slowly been making my way through this series and have been loving every single book I've read. But I've been a fan of Ashlyn's books for a very long time.
Anthony and Claudia make a great couple and they battled a couple of very hard topics, alcoholism and a crazy ex-girlfriend. Some might not think that the crazy, stalker ex girlfriend would be as big a deal as being an alcoholic but anyone who's had to deal with a stalker will tell you otherwise. I really thought both topics were dealt with in a good way and I like that we see people who have real, everyday problems because that always makes a character easier to relate with. It also makes the book more realistic even when you're reading about vampires.
Speaking of great characters, let's talk Gaia for a moment. I love her character and love how she pops up in so many books. At first I thought she was kind of a hard ass but I've grown to love her and can see she does care for those she interacts with.
Along with rebuilding his bar, trying to start a relationship with a human and keeping his crazy ex girlfriend away, he is also trying to find out who is kidnapping paranormals. There's so much going on in this book that it was never boring. Something new and exciting is always happening, which made it a real page turner.
If you've been reading this series and were hoping to find out more about Anthony, this is the book you've been waiting for. We get to know him a lot more and find out he's been dealing with a lot of secrets, the biggest one is keeping humans from finding out he's a vampire or that other paranormals come to his bar to meet.
If you're looking for a great vampire romance, a mystery to solve or a great love story then this is the book you want to read because it has all of that and more.
April 11, 2014
Title: Kissing with Fangs
Series: Flirting with Fangs Book #3
Author: Ashlyn Chase
Genre: Paranormal, Romance
Blurb: Will she be willing to commit her heart for all eternity once the fangs come out?
Claudia Fletcher has her MBA and a stellar resume, so when the bar she manages burns down, she could easily move on to bigger and better things. But something about the bar owner, Anothy Cross makes it impossible to leave. Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go...
Thoughts: This is one of those books that when I started it, I had no idea it was a series. With that being said, I had an inkling that there was more to the story than I was getting. I found the need to look more into the author and her works, and get a good idea of where I was in the series - and see if I had missed a book or two in the beginning. Turns out this is book three, and I have to say that for a paranormal novel, this one came off a little lighthearted. It seemed to be missing a little something for me, and I really never found my attention caught by it. I can't really say that if I read the first ones I would feel any different - it just seemed to lack a certain spark for me. The characters didn't draw me in, nor did the storyline - parts of it seemed complicated where it didn't need to be, and other parts were a little too blasé. This didn't make for a good balance overall. This one was only okay for me, and if you already like the series, I'm sure you'll like this one. If your new...well, if you think this one will be something that you like, I advise reading them in order.
Rate: C
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Flirting with Fangs Book #3
Author: Ashlyn Chase
Genre: Paranormal, Romance
Blurb: Will she be willing to commit her heart for all eternity once the fangs come out?
Claudia Fletcher has her MBA and a stellar resume, so when the bar she manages burns down, she could easily move on to bigger and better things. But something about the bar owner, Anothy Cross makes it impossible to leave. Anthony has never let on to the general public that he's a vampire, and most of his staff members have no idea Boston Uncommon was a safe gathering place for supernaturals of all kinds. Now that it's nothing but ash, the tentative peace among warring factions is starting to crumble. The last thing he wants to do is put Claudia in danger, but he also knows there's no way he can let her go...
Thoughts: This is one of those books that when I started it, I had no idea it was a series. With that being said, I had an inkling that there was more to the story than I was getting. I found the need to look more into the author and her works, and get a good idea of where I was in the series - and see if I had missed a book or two in the beginning. Turns out this is book three, and I have to say that for a paranormal novel, this one came off a little lighthearted. It seemed to be missing a little something for me, and I really never found my attention caught by it. I can't really say that if I read the first ones I would feel any different - it just seemed to lack a certain spark for me. The characters didn't draw me in, nor did the storyline - parts of it seemed complicated where it didn't need to be, and other parts were a little too blasé. This didn't make for a good balance overall. This one was only okay for me, and if you already like the series, I'm sure you'll like this one. If your new...well, if you think this one will be something that you like, I advise reading them in order.
Rate: C
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
February 19, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think the series was really leading up to this installment. I’ve wanted to know what the deal was with Claudia and Anthony since book 1 and this one ties the trilogy up nicely.
How can they continue on with this trilogy if there is no bar to have as a setting? How will the paranormals all meet up? Well, it turns out, that’s not really a problem. Since the main characters are all friends outside the bar scene, they just ended up meeting at homes. As far as the lack of bar, that made for a nice plot point. Anthony is still figuring out what to do about his poor burned up bar when his “aunt” warns him to check in on Claudia. Claudia, it appears, has been hiding her alcohol problems from everyone and having no job at the bar anymore sent her in a tailspin. After years of sexual tension, with both of them remaining rigid and professional in the workplace, now there is no workplace to keep them apart. There’s still Ruxandra, though.
I was also worried about how on earth the author would make me care about Ruxandra, who has been a bit of an evil villain in the previous two books. Well, that happened pretty easily, too. This book was filled with HEA for everyone you can think of. For once, a trilogy has left me thinking happy thoughts for everyone. There are no real loose ends to worry over and while I’m sure there could be oodles of spinoffs, this trilogy is firmly ended. Was I 100% happy with how Anthony and Claudia get there? No, but it’s still good for both of them. This series was a fun ride and I’m glad that I took a chance and checked it out. You probably don’t have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but it helps.
I think the series was really leading up to this installment. I’ve wanted to know what the deal was with Claudia and Anthony since book 1 and this one ties the trilogy up nicely.
How can they continue on with this trilogy if there is no bar to have as a setting? How will the paranormals all meet up? Well, it turns out, that’s not really a problem. Since the main characters are all friends outside the bar scene, they just ended up meeting at homes. As far as the lack of bar, that made for a nice plot point. Anthony is still figuring out what to do about his poor burned up bar when his “aunt” warns him to check in on Claudia. Claudia, it appears, has been hiding her alcohol problems from everyone and having no job at the bar anymore sent her in a tailspin. After years of sexual tension, with both of them remaining rigid and professional in the workplace, now there is no workplace to keep them apart. There’s still Ruxandra, though.
I was also worried about how on earth the author would make me care about Ruxandra, who has been a bit of an evil villain in the previous two books. Well, that happened pretty easily, too. This book was filled with HEA for everyone you can think of. For once, a trilogy has left me thinking happy thoughts for everyone. There are no real loose ends to worry over and while I’m sure there could be oodles of spinoffs, this trilogy is firmly ended. Was I 100% happy with how Anthony and Claudia get there? No, but it’s still good for both of them. This series was a fun ride and I’m glad that I took a chance and checked it out. You probably don’t have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but it helps.
February 28, 2014
Kissing with Fangs begins with a conundrum. The Boston Uncommon, a bar designed to be a safe gathering place for the supernatural community, has burnt down leaving Claudia unemployed and Anthony at a loss as to what to do to get Claudia back in his life while keeping her safe. In the meantime supes are disappearing all over the area without a clue as to how or why they have gone missing. There are all of the elements here for a truly great read, but for me the journey was a bit flat. The primary protagonists Claudia and Anthony each have their issues and finely after five years realize they care for each other, but struggle with a way to make things work out. I found myself unable to connect with them and become invested in their journey together and really just did not care much about the characters. I was much more interested in the peripheral characters, who were great fun and captivating players, as well as the mystery of the disappearing folks and really wish there was more fleshing out of this part of the tale; it just seemed there was so much more to be said. I do have to give kudos to the author for introducing the serious issue of alcoholism and the respectful way it was written into the story, although this did take away from the more lighthearted expectations that were there for the read. Overall I enjoyed the tale, I just felt there was something missing and more that could have been said to make it really great. I received this book from NetGalley, but have purchased other books in the series and will definitely be giving those a read in hopes of more from those characters I really enjoyed and am looking forward to the journey. My actual rating would be 3.5, but that is not an option so I have rounded up :)
February 11, 2014
I one my copy from Ashlyn's weekly question.
First let me say I'm sad that the trilogy is complete. This is a very fun series to read. Don't get me wrong, there is action and angst as well as real problems but the air of fun is always present.
We pick up with Anthony planning the re-build the bar after the fire. His dream of getting paranormals together and co-existing has not gone away.
He keeps in touch with every one. Sadie alerts Anthony that Claudia is in trouble. Since he cares for all his former employees and patrons (and he has had deep rooted feelings for Claudia for over 5 yrs) he goes to her apartment only to find she has moved to a lesser quality place. When he gets to her new place and she finally lets him in it is obvious she is drunk.
Claudia falls asleep and Anthony stays. Very early in the morning her folks arrive from Florida to see if she is okay. Anthony speed cleans the place and in a cover with her parents states that he was running ideas past Claudia for the new opening of the bar.
A day later Anthony tells Claudia he is serious and wants her help. She says he's a functioning alcoholic and a bar would be a bad idea. So a tearoom is now is :).
The two of them finally act on their feelings but try to keep it under wraps because of Anthony's ex Ruxandra (vampire) who is jealous and would kill Claudia.
Paranormals are also being kidnapped, caged and tested. Nick and Kurt are investigating trying to locate the lab. Nice story here.
We also have some excellent scenes with Gaia aka Mother Nature.
One of my favorite scenes is when Anthony deals with Maynard. I laughed SO hard my kitten was not pleased :).
These books are so much fun. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I have.
First let me say I'm sad that the trilogy is complete. This is a very fun series to read. Don't get me wrong, there is action and angst as well as real problems but the air of fun is always present.
We pick up with Anthony planning the re-build the bar after the fire. His dream of getting paranormals together and co-existing has not gone away.
He keeps in touch with every one. Sadie alerts Anthony that Claudia is in trouble. Since he cares for all his former employees and patrons (and he has had deep rooted feelings for Claudia for over 5 yrs) he goes to her apartment only to find she has moved to a lesser quality place. When he gets to her new place and she finally lets him in it is obvious she is drunk.
Claudia falls asleep and Anthony stays. Very early in the morning her folks arrive from Florida to see if she is okay. Anthony speed cleans the place and in a cover with her parents states that he was running ideas past Claudia for the new opening of the bar.
A day later Anthony tells Claudia he is serious and wants her help. She says he's a functioning alcoholic and a bar would be a bad idea. So a tearoom is now is :).
The two of them finally act on their feelings but try to keep it under wraps because of Anthony's ex Ruxandra (vampire) who is jealous and would kill Claudia.
Paranormals are also being kidnapped, caged and tested. Nick and Kurt are investigating trying to locate the lab. Nice story here.
We also have some excellent scenes with Gaia aka Mother Nature.
One of my favorite scenes is when Anthony deals with Maynard. I laughed SO hard my kitten was not pleased :).
These books are so much fun. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I have.
March 5, 2014
This is, or was supposed to be, the last in the “Flirting with Fangs” Trilogy. The great thing about this series is that you don’t have to read them in the proper order to enjoy them (Flirting under the Full Moon, How to Date a Dragon and THEN Kissing with Fangs for my linear readers). I actually read the Dragon book first and loved it so much I had to go back and read the first one. This is the story of Anthony Cross (Vampire Bar owner) and Claudia (former alcoholic who is the Manager of aforementioned Bar, yes, complicated, I know!). Now having read the first two, I can tell you that while these two get together relatively early on in the book, their romance isn’t a drama free one to say the least (Anthony’s psychotic ex and Claudia’s now supernatural creature hunting ex). Everyone that you loved (and loved to hate) will be showing up in this book to help (or hinder) our hero and heroine along the way. Ashlyn has a way of writing the heroine in such a way that you instantly connect with her, and her heroes? Oh my Goddess!!! Hot to the power of 100! Reading this book was like revisiting with old friends that I missed, and getting to know some acquaintances even better.
I became an instant fan of Ashlyn Chase, and can say if you love the Amoveo Legend series by Sara Humphries, then you will love this one too! I read on Ms. Chase’s Facebook page that she is being optioned for a 4th book in this series, and that maybe hopefully, possibly that will spin off into yet another series. I am excited to see where this adventure takes us, as I plan of following her career for a long time to come!
4 thumbs up!
I became an instant fan of Ashlyn Chase, and can say if you love the Amoveo Legend series by Sara Humphries, then you will love this one too! I read on Ms. Chase’s Facebook page that she is being optioned for a 4th book in this series, and that maybe hopefully, possibly that will spin off into yet another series. I am excited to see where this adventure takes us, as I plan of following her career for a long time to come!
4 thumbs up!
November 13, 2014
The third book in the Flirting with Fangs trilogy, Kissing with Fangs is fun, quirky, and chalk full of adventure and romance. Claudia and Anthony are a fantastic duo couple in this epic installment.
A mix of romantic mystery with some very honest reality Ashlyn approaches several topics with sincerity and realism.
Ashlyn does a wonderful job creating characters that are just as real as you and me and a world full of twists and turns that will have you dancing in anticipation for what comes next.
When the bar Claudia helps Anthony burns down they set themselves up for a new business venture together only their history together begins to complicate and thicken the plot. Claudia and Anthony set out on their path and secrets begin to unfold. The only thing is he is a vampire, and now the supernaturals are being hunted down and tested on. Needing to think of something quick to buffer the danger Anthony comes up with a plan but his secret won't stay in the dark for very long.
With a vengeful ex girlfriend, friends that rely on him and a desire to be with the one woman he's been in love with for years he longs to make things work.
Ashlyn has done a fantastic job, her vampires are lush and full of life with a rare vibrancy that very few have been able to tap. I can't wait for more!
A mix of romantic mystery with some very honest reality Ashlyn approaches several topics with sincerity and realism.
Ashlyn does a wonderful job creating characters that are just as real as you and me and a world full of twists and turns that will have you dancing in anticipation for what comes next.
When the bar Claudia helps Anthony burns down they set themselves up for a new business venture together only their history together begins to complicate and thicken the plot. Claudia and Anthony set out on their path and secrets begin to unfold. The only thing is he is a vampire, and now the supernaturals are being hunted down and tested on. Needing to think of something quick to buffer the danger Anthony comes up with a plan but his secret won't stay in the dark for very long.
With a vengeful ex girlfriend, friends that rely on him and a desire to be with the one woman he's been in love with for years he longs to make things work.
Ashlyn has done a fantastic job, her vampires are lush and full of life with a rare vibrancy that very few have been able to tap. I can't wait for more!
February 24, 2016
The cover is what caught my attention and the book description convinced me to buy it. However, this author’s work is a hit or miss for me and this one is a miss. I really want to enjoy her books, especially since they always sound so interested. Her writing voice is what lets me down.
Anthony’s bar burnt down, which now gives him and Claudia no reason to really see each other (since she had worked for him). In the first chapter there is a wonky flash back: a scene between him and his crazy ex-girlfriend. He then receives a call from someone who can sense that Claudia is sad and he is convinced he has to go see her. When he arrives at her apartment, Claudia is a drunken mess. Needless to say, the first chapter was a bit all over the place.
Apparently, Claudia and Anthony have been into to each other for a while. They have resisted their feelings, not wanting to mix business with pleasure. There were times when both characters annoyed me – I wanted to slap them and yell, “Communicate!” Which is why I think I had a difficult time connecting with the characters and didn’t get involved in the story.
Though this trilogy wasn’t for me, I do enjoy Ashlyn Chase’s Strange Neighbors series. It’s pretty cute and I would recommend it to those looking for a chick lit style paranormal read.
Anthony’s bar burnt down, which now gives him and Claudia no reason to really see each other (since she had worked for him). In the first chapter there is a wonky flash back: a scene between him and his crazy ex-girlfriend. He then receives a call from someone who can sense that Claudia is sad and he is convinced he has to go see her. When he arrives at her apartment, Claudia is a drunken mess. Needless to say, the first chapter was a bit all over the place.
Apparently, Claudia and Anthony have been into to each other for a while. They have resisted their feelings, not wanting to mix business with pleasure. There were times when both characters annoyed me – I wanted to slap them and yell, “Communicate!” Which is why I think I had a difficult time connecting with the characters and didn’t get involved in the story.
Though this trilogy wasn’t for me, I do enjoy Ashlyn Chase’s Strange Neighbors series. It’s pretty cute and I would recommend it to those looking for a chick lit style paranormal read.
March 7, 2014
Kissing with Fangs. Ashlyn Chase
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book reviews.
This sounded a fun read and I was looking forward to reading it. Though I like my deep and dark paranormal I also enjoy a more light-hearted look at the genre sometimes. However, I found myself putting this book aside too often though, as I just couldn’t get properly “into” it, then picking it up, forgetting who was who and restarting.
I found it a bit too light-hearted, too trivialised to be honest, the plots seemed contrived and over complicated, while the characters were very OTT and didn't feel real. Even in a paranormal I need the characters to feel as if they could be people I've met or know. It was full of attempts at humour, but it fell flat with me for some reason. I just didn't care about the characters, and didn't really bother about the potential dangers. It was just a meh book for me. As ever though I’m only one person, and what I enjoy and what someone else wants may be totally different things, so please bear that in mind. The book itself is well written and edited – its just that its not one for me.
Stars: 2.5.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book reviews.
This sounded a fun read and I was looking forward to reading it. Though I like my deep and dark paranormal I also enjoy a more light-hearted look at the genre sometimes. However, I found myself putting this book aside too often though, as I just couldn’t get properly “into” it, then picking it up, forgetting who was who and restarting.
I found it a bit too light-hearted, too trivialised to be honest, the plots seemed contrived and over complicated, while the characters were very OTT and didn't feel real. Even in a paranormal I need the characters to feel as if they could be people I've met or know. It was full of attempts at humour, but it fell flat with me for some reason. I just didn't care about the characters, and didn't really bother about the potential dangers. It was just a meh book for me. As ever though I’m only one person, and what I enjoy and what someone else wants may be totally different things, so please bear that in mind. The book itself is well written and edited – its just that its not one for me.
Stars: 2.5.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
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