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Riley Jenson Guardian #5
Embraced by Darkness
She's hunting a killer—and shattering every boundary she’s ever known…
Part vamp, part werewolf, Riley Jenson plays by her own rules, whether it’s her stormy love life or her job as a guardian. But when her family’s alpha male demands that she solve the mystery of a vanished girl, Riley can feel a trap closing in around her. Because the job comes with a catch: if Riley fails, her own mother will die.
Now the stakes are raised, the hunt is on…and when more women vanish, Riley is caught between a lover who demands that she give up her work, a serial killer who knows no boundaries, and a club where humans and supernaturals mix—at their own peril. Thrust into a realm of seduction and violence unlike any she could have imagined, Riley has to battle to save everything she holds dear. But the ultimate hunt has only just begun…
Part vamp, part werewolf, Riley Jenson plays by her own rules, whether it’s her stormy love life or her job as a guardian. But when her family’s alpha male demands that she solve the mystery of a vanished girl, Riley can feel a trap closing in around her. Because the job comes with a catch: if Riley fails, her own mother will die.
Now the stakes are raised, the hunt is on…and when more women vanish, Riley is caught between a lover who demands that she give up her work, a serial killer who knows no boundaries, and a club where humans and supernaturals mix—at their own peril. Thrust into a realm of seduction and violence unlike any she could have imagined, Riley has to battle to save everything she holds dear. But the ultimate hunt has only just begun…
355 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 31, 2007
215 people are currently reading
3878 people want to read
About the author
Keri Arthur
100 books5,991 followersKeri Arthur, author of the New York Times bestselling Riley Jenson, Guardian series, has now written more than 25 books. She's received several nominations in the Best Contemporary Paranormal category of the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards, and recently won RT's Career Achievement Award for urban fantasy. She lives in Melbourne with her daughter and two crazy dogs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
May 2, 2012
People have such low standards for their heroines, it is really kind of sad. Riley does stupid stuff, treats her boyfriend like crap, and is openly disdainful to her boss. I guess that adds up to totally cool if you have super powers?
I keep thinking she will start to annoy me less, but quite the opposite. Her whining about not being able to sleep with everything with a penis, her constant rudeness to everyone, and the fact that she can't think her way out of a paper bag make me crazy.
The books are pure filler. Something tho read when there is nothing better available. But reading this after finishing one of Nalini Singh's books, I am just flabbergasted by the people who consider Riley capable. If she wasn't too stubborn or forgetful to carry her weapons, she wouldnt need her superpowers half the time. Not being a dumbass would avoid the other half of the need. Of course, then the books would just be about her overactive sex life, and
how unreasonable her boyfriend is to ask her not to screw every guy she sees, and her gushing to him about how great he is and then moping because he isn't Quinn. Blech. Compared to Singh's Elena, she is just another whiny werewolf.
I keep thinking she will start to annoy me less, but quite the opposite. Her whining about not being able to sleep with everything with a penis, her constant rudeness to everyone, and the fact that she can't think her way out of a paper bag make me crazy.
The books are pure filler. Something tho read when there is nothing better available. But reading this after finishing one of Nalini Singh's books, I am just flabbergasted by the people who consider Riley capable. If she wasn't too stubborn or forgetful to carry her weapons, she wouldnt need her superpowers half the time. Not being a dumbass would avoid the other half of the need. Of course, then the books would just be about her overactive sex life, and
how unreasonable her boyfriend is to ask her not to screw every guy she sees, and her gushing to him about how great he is and then moping because he isn't Quinn. Blech. Compared to Singh's Elena, she is just another whiny werewolf.
January 8, 2022
Apenas terminando sus vacaciones y ahora no tiene uno, sino dos casos que investigar. El primero, el asesino pareciera ser humano o algo que posee al humano para asesinar a su pareja de la forma mas horrible y espantosa que Riley hubiera visto jamas. Y el segundo, la desaparicion de la nieta del que es ahora el Alfa de la manada al que pertence su madre. Este ultimo caso, lo esta tomando por obligacion y bajo amenaza, pero la joven merece ser encontrada y si es posible liberada de sus captores.
Pero ninguno de los casos son, al parecer, sobre-humanos, todos los sospechosos son humanos (o parecen serlo). Y cuando comienzan a atentar contra su vida, sabe que se esta acercando a descubrir a o los asesinos, y como estan causando estas desapariciones y/o muertes.
Pero ademas de eso, Kellen le esta pidiendo un compromiso mucho mas serio, quiere que sean una pareja exclusiva, y averiguar si es posible que su relacion pueda ser la de "almas gemelas", por lo que Riley debera pensar realmente si quiere comprometerse a largo plazo o si sigue escondiendose en el temor a ser abandonada o ser traicionada de nuevo.
La trama sobre los casos fue bastante intrigante, aunque la forma como el autor esta agregando estos "seres humanos" con ciertos poderes, todavia no tiene explicacion, o por lo menos no la han dado en los libros, mas que la frase "todavia hay muchas cosas que desconocemos". Pero me gusto mucho el drama de Kellen-Riley, porque realmente el autor nos llevo a sentir la angustia de Kellen y el amor que siente Riley, junto con sus dudas al compromiso.
Tambien me gusto mucho la forma como el personaje de Riley realmente esta evolucionando, aunque muchos de los cambios que ha hecho y los entrenamientos no los describen en el libro hasta que utiliza una nueva tecnica o un nuevo truco.
Asi que si, esta serie esta muy muy buena, y quiero saber que va a pasar ahora con Riley y sus "parejas".
Pero ninguno de los casos son, al parecer, sobre-humanos, todos los sospechosos son humanos (o parecen serlo). Y cuando comienzan a atentar contra su vida, sabe que se esta acercando a descubrir a o los asesinos, y como estan causando estas desapariciones y/o muertes.
Pero ademas de eso, Kellen le esta pidiendo un compromiso mucho mas serio, quiere que sean una pareja exclusiva, y averiguar si es posible que su relacion pueda ser la de "almas gemelas", por lo que Riley debera pensar realmente si quiere comprometerse a largo plazo o si sigue escondiendose en el temor a ser abandonada o ser traicionada de nuevo.
La trama sobre los casos fue bastante intrigante, aunque la forma como el autor esta agregando estos "seres humanos" con ciertos poderes, todavia no tiene explicacion, o por lo menos no la han dado en los libros, mas que la frase "todavia hay muchas cosas que desconocemos". Pero me gusto mucho el drama de Kellen-Riley, porque realmente el autor nos llevo a sentir la angustia de Kellen y el amor que siente Riley, junto con sus dudas al compromiso.
Tambien me gusto mucho la forma como el personaje de Riley realmente esta evolucionando, aunque muchos de los cambios que ha hecho y los entrenamientos no los describen en el libro hasta que utiliza una nueva tecnica o un nuevo truco.
Asi que si, esta serie esta muy muy buena, y quiero saber que va a pasar ahora con Riley y sus "parejas".
March 16, 2012
*sigh*
Perhaps I am in a reading funk. Perhaps I am not giving Arthur's last two books a fair chance.
Nonetheless, I shall write my honest opinion. This book put me to sleep.
Riley Jenson, a Guardian / super non-human cop who is apparently judge, jury and executioner, wiggles her way into ... or out of... the fear of commitment to Kellen, an alpha werewolf yadda yadda ...
He wants to protect her. She doesn't need his protection. He wants the white picket fence. She wants to dig her fingers into her flesh to remove that deadly and numbing silver bullet before a monster with a barbed penis comes along and whacks her in more than one way. Boring? Believe it or not .. hell yes.
In Embraced by Darkness, Riley is contacted by her pack, the pack that tossed her off the cliff for being a half-breed, the pack that exiled her and her twin brother. Women are going missing, and for some reason, they have decided to bully her into the investigation by threatening her mother.
Still boring.
The sexual content is almost non-existent .. wtf? After the first two books in this series, there was promise of entertainment with interesting bestial intimacies between breeds and half breeds. What can I say? Rock on.
My original opinion of this series, is that I would rate it at the top of my charts ... along with the Anita Blake series. Well shit ... I'll have to place her books on lower bookshelves and reserve the higher shelf for new favorite authors.
Ok, I hate writing negative reviews... and there have been plenty in the past few months! That's wrong on so many levels ... bummer.
So, let's find something positive to say about this book. The hunter becomes the hunted. Yup, that's about it.
I recommend this book to those who intend on reading this series. I do not recommend immature adults or children getting their hands on this book, as the violence, although brief, is fun-filled with bodies are ripped apart. The sexual content is vague, brief, and borrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrring.
~happy reading :p
Perhaps I am in a reading funk. Perhaps I am not giving Arthur's last two books a fair chance.
Nonetheless, I shall write my honest opinion. This book put me to sleep.
Riley Jenson, a Guardian / super non-human cop who is apparently judge, jury and executioner, wiggles her way into ... or out of... the fear of commitment to Kellen, an alpha werewolf yadda yadda ...
He wants to protect her. She doesn't need his protection. He wants the white picket fence. She wants to dig her fingers into her flesh to remove that deadly and numbing silver bullet before a monster with a barbed penis comes along and whacks her in more than one way. Boring? Believe it or not .. hell yes.
In Embraced by Darkness, Riley is contacted by her pack, the pack that tossed her off the cliff for being a half-breed, the pack that exiled her and her twin brother. Women are going missing, and for some reason, they have decided to bully her into the investigation by threatening her mother.
Still boring.
The sexual content is almost non-existent .. wtf? After the first two books in this series, there was promise of entertainment with interesting bestial intimacies between breeds and half breeds. What can I say? Rock on.
My original opinion of this series, is that I would rate it at the top of my charts ... along with the Anita Blake series. Well shit ... I'll have to place her books on lower bookshelves and reserve the higher shelf for new favorite authors.
Ok, I hate writing negative reviews... and there have been plenty in the past few months! That's wrong on so many levels ... bummer.
So, let's find something positive to say about this book. The hunter becomes the hunted. Yup, that's about it.
I recommend this book to those who intend on reading this series. I do not recommend immature adults or children getting their hands on this book, as the violence, although brief, is fun-filled with bodies are ripped apart. The sexual content is vague, brief, and borrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrring.
~happy reading :p
December 29, 2009
Once again, Keri Arthur pulled it off. The series is still going strong for me. Riley is an awesome heroine!
In this book, she was more of a one man kind of woman--so her sex life was not nearly as outrageous as it normally tends to be. Being book #5 in the series, I think it was a good choice to put Riley at a crossroads of sorts...she is forced to make some tough decisions. Her life is ever-changing and in several ways not as I had expected. The experimental drugs that were forced on her in earlier books are beginning to have some very unexpected effects on her and I am sure they will continue to change her as the series continues.
I am such a fan of these books and once again, loving the direction the author is taking the series. I am hopeful that it continues to please me :-
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
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In this book, she was more of a one man kind of woman--so her sex life was not nearly as outrageous as it normally tends to be. Being book #5 in the series, I think it was a good choice to put Riley at a crossroads of sorts...she is forced to make some tough decisions. Her life is ever-changing and in several ways not as I had expected. The experimental drugs that were forced on her in earlier books are beginning to have some very unexpected effects on her and I am sure they will continue to change her as the series continues.
I am such a fan of these books and once again, loving the direction the author is taking the series. I am hopeful that it continues to please me :-
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
___________________________________________________
If you like this type of book, you might enjoy one of these groups. Check us out!
Menage Readers
Erotic Enchants
Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group
September 22, 2019
To read more reviews in this series and others, check out keikii eats books!
82 points/100 (4 ¼ stars/5) [revised from 5]
One of the pack has disappeared, and the alpha is tapping Riley to look for her. Problem is, Riley and her twin brother have been kicked out of the pack for being dhampire, half werewolf and half vampire, and she doesn't believe this is her problem. Now the alpha is threatening her mom in order to get her cooperation. It leads her to a club that allows humans and supernatural to mix, on a trial basis. A club where under the surface, a dark secret lurks.
Wow, there was a lot that happened in this book. This used to be my least favourite book in the entire series. I hated the end of it, and it coloured my entire view of the book. I was also younger and didn't quite get what the author was doing here. Yet, right now, during this reread, this has become my favourite to date. I loved the way the story flowed towards the end (even if I still didn't enjoy the ending). I loved what she did with the story. I love how there wasn't any Quinn.
This is once again just a missing persons case, but this time there are about three plot threads going on at once. They all end up being interconnected, which I don't actually like when books do this. However, it is so common I just have to put up with it. All of the plots have to deal with missing people or people being killed. There is also another killer going around, but it isn't as it appears.
The relationship is so much better this book. After Riley told Quinn she wanted a break from him at the end of Dangerous Games, he isn't in Embraced by Darkness. Therefore, it is instantly better because there isn't any fighting. All the relationship drama is actually pretty wholesome. It is just a disagreement on how to continue a relationship. Riley is really reluctant to limit her options, because she is still chasing her dream. She wants her soulmate more than anything. It is the only dream she has left to her right now.
The end of the book is still probably my least favourite. I dislike the whole "most dangerous game" thing, where people (typically humans), hunt other people for the thrill of it (typically supernaturals). Super not my favourite, to the point where it typically turns me off the story entirely. However, this doesn't actually take up as much of the book as I remembered it taking up, and it is over quickly. Perhaps too quickly but I'm glad for it.
The most important thing about the book was it starts to deal with Riley's family issues and the pack they came from. Let's be real, Riley has a lot of issues regarding family (it is probably why she wants that soulmate so much). I'm surprised by the direction Keri Arthur took with the pack, though. I'm not certain I like it. I want to like it, but also I kind of don't like it anyway. They're so heavy-handed, and Riley just kind of takes it. Riley never takes it from anyone, why is she now?
Quite a change from my least favourite to my most (so far). I wonder what else this reread has in store for me.
82 points/100 (4 ¼ stars/5) [revised from 5]
One of the pack has disappeared, and the alpha is tapping Riley to look for her. Problem is, Riley and her twin brother have been kicked out of the pack for being dhampire, half werewolf and half vampire, and she doesn't believe this is her problem. Now the alpha is threatening her mom in order to get her cooperation. It leads her to a club that allows humans and supernatural to mix, on a trial basis. A club where under the surface, a dark secret lurks.
Wow, there was a lot that happened in this book. This used to be my least favourite book in the entire series. I hated the end of it, and it coloured my entire view of the book. I was also younger and didn't quite get what the author was doing here. Yet, right now, during this reread, this has become my favourite to date. I loved the way the story flowed towards the end (even if I still didn't enjoy the ending). I loved what she did with the story. I love how there wasn't any Quinn.
This is once again just a missing persons case, but this time there are about three plot threads going on at once. They all end up being interconnected, which I don't actually like when books do this. However, it is so common I just have to put up with it. All of the plots have to deal with missing people or people being killed. There is also another killer going around, but it isn't as it appears.
The relationship is so much better this book. After Riley told Quinn she wanted a break from him at the end of Dangerous Games, he isn't in Embraced by Darkness. Therefore, it is instantly better because there isn't any fighting. All the relationship drama is actually pretty wholesome. It is just a disagreement on how to continue a relationship. Riley is really reluctant to limit her options, because she is still chasing her dream. She wants her soulmate more than anything. It is the only dream she has left to her right now.
The end of the book is still probably my least favourite. I dislike the whole "most dangerous game" thing, where people (typically humans), hunt other people for the thrill of it (typically supernaturals). Super not my favourite, to the point where it typically turns me off the story entirely. However, this doesn't actually take up as much of the book as I remembered it taking up, and it is over quickly. Perhaps too quickly but I'm glad for it.
The most important thing about the book was it starts to deal with Riley's family issues and the pack they came from. Let's be real, Riley has a lot of issues regarding family (it is probably why she wants that soulmate so much). I'm surprised by the direction Keri Arthur took with the pack, though. I'm not certain I like it. I want to like it, but also I kind of don't like it anyway. They're so heavy-handed, and Riley just kind of takes it. Riley never takes it from anyone, why is she now?
Quite a change from my least favourite to my most (so far). I wonder what else this reread has in store for me.
July 29, 2019
Riley's pack is horrible! I hate how her mother doesn't even really seem to care about her! I'm almost mad at Riley for still caring about her mom.
Her alpha is a bastard! I'm so glad that Riley was willing to fight to make sure her packmate's lover was able to get what she deserved.
The twins were insane! So glad Riley killed them despite them being human. I hope her soul survives it later.
Riley can now transform into a seagull! Not the most majestic of birds but eh. lol.
Kellen is an ass!
Her alpha is a bastard! I'm so glad that Riley was willing to fight to make sure her packmate's lover was able to get what she deserved.
The twins were insane! So glad Riley killed them despite them being human. I hope her soul survives it later.
Riley can now transform into a seagull! Not the most majestic of birds but eh. lol.
Kellen is an ass!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2018
Prosegue la rilettura di questa serie e siamo arrivati al titolo che più temevo, quello che meno mi era piaciuto la prima volta. Il perché è individuabile nell'assenza di Quinn. Si sente proprio la sua mancanza anche perché le sue interazioni con Riley non sono compensabili con quelle di Kellen, non è per niente paragonabile.
Riley rimane un personaggio straordinario, l'adoro sempre ogni volta di più e la trama è corposa e ben strutturata.
Ho adorato in realtà rileggere questo libro perché so cosa accadrà e quindi mi sono goduta i riferimenti e i piccoli accenni che costellano la narrazione.
Sono impaziente di continuare, anche perché Quinn è mancato davvero troppo.
Riley rimane un personaggio straordinario, l'adoro sempre ogni volta di più e la trama è corposa e ben strutturata.
Ho adorato in realtà rileggere questo libro perché so cosa accadrà e quindi mi sono goduta i riferimenti e i piccoli accenni che costellano la narrazione.
Sono impaziente di continuare, anche perché Quinn è mancato davvero troppo.
February 9, 2021
Danger around every corner. Riley finds herself in the middle of an horrific crime spree. And is finding more changes every day in her abilities. A fun and suspense filled read.
September 19, 2010
Riley is supposed to be on holiday to recover from events in the previous books but she never has been one to sit around doing nothing. This time her holiday is spoiled when she is contacted by a member of her mother's pack - the pack that exiled her & Rhoan for being half breeds. Riley wants as little to do with them as they have had to do with her but now they need her help - one of their pack members has gone missing and they want Riley to find her. If Riley refuses then her mother will be killed - a threat she knows they will be happy to carry out.
I'm already a big fan of this series and Embraced by Darkness was a great installment. We have seen Riley go through a lot in the year we've been following her but she has some difficult personal decisions to make this time regarding her relationship with Kellen. I started getting really bad feelings about Kellen near the beginning of the story but I'm not going to say if I was right or not - you'll have to read the book to find out. I just find it very hard to trust Riley's taste in men given her history!
I liked finding out more about Riley & Rhoan's upbringing and their relationship with members of their old pack. It would have been nice to have a chance to meet their mother though. I do love the strong bond between Riley & Rhoan though - they have always been close but as you learn more about their mother's pack it becomes clear that they've only really ever been able to rely on each other. It's good that they are still always there for each other.
I enjoyed the hunt scenes with the bad guys towards the end of the book and was really unsure how Riley would escape. There was a really interesting twist to the way Riley's powers are developing due to the experimental drug she was given at the start of the series, I'm very curious to see how this changes things for her in the future. I did find the bad guys abilities were a little unbelievable and didn't think we were given enough of an explanation for that. I was also a bit surprised at how easily they are defeated at the end considering how powerful they were.
This is a great series for fans of urban fantasy but I would definitely recommend starting with book 1 Full Moon Rising. Riley has developed quite a lot as a character throughout the series & I think you'd be missing out if you didn't read the books in order. I liked the fact that Riley's hormones played a smaller part in this story - I don't mind sex in a story but it can get a little repetitive when the main character is repeatedly having sex with many partners, especially when it is often with people she doesn't like & just as a part of her job. If you haven't started this series yet but are an urban fantasy fan then I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
I'm already a big fan of this series and Embraced by Darkness was a great installment. We have seen Riley go through a lot in the year we've been following her but she has some difficult personal decisions to make this time regarding her relationship with Kellen. I started getting really bad feelings about Kellen near the beginning of the story but I'm not going to say if I was right or not - you'll have to read the book to find out. I just find it very hard to trust Riley's taste in men given her history!
I liked finding out more about Riley & Rhoan's upbringing and their relationship with members of their old pack. It would have been nice to have a chance to meet their mother though. I do love the strong bond between Riley & Rhoan though - they have always been close but as you learn more about their mother's pack it becomes clear that they've only really ever been able to rely on each other. It's good that they are still always there for each other.
I enjoyed the hunt scenes with the bad guys towards the end of the book and was really unsure how Riley would escape. There was a really interesting twist to the way Riley's powers are developing due to the experimental drug she was given at the start of the series, I'm very curious to see how this changes things for her in the future. I did find the bad guys abilities were a little unbelievable and didn't think we were given enough of an explanation for that. I was also a bit surprised at how easily they are defeated at the end considering how powerful they were.
This is a great series for fans of urban fantasy but I would definitely recommend starting with book 1 Full Moon Rising. Riley has developed quite a lot as a character throughout the series & I think you'd be missing out if you didn't read the books in order. I liked the fact that Riley's hormones played a smaller part in this story - I don't mind sex in a story but it can get a little repetitive when the main character is repeatedly having sex with many partners, especially when it is often with people she doesn't like & just as a part of her job. If you haven't started this series yet but are an urban fantasy fan then I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
May 2, 2022
The best in this series so far! It was really nice to see Riley properly jumping into cases that weren’t personally related to her, and the two that formed the basis of the plot were so gripping all the way until the end! It was really refreshing to have a break from Quinn in this book, and there was significantly less sex in this one than the first couple of installments which I am grateful for - it was starting to get very repetitive!
January 10, 2014
I loved the first three Riley Jenson books. I had a bit of trouble with Dangerous Games, but I enjoyed it by the end and I was looking forward to Embraced by Darkness. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed and I’m a little worried the magic of Riley Jenson is gone for me.
There is no denying that Keri Arthur is a good author. I like her writing style. I like the paranormal world she’s created. I love the fact that her heroine kicks major ass. So, why was I disappointed? I think this is a matter of personal taste. I’m a huge romance junkie. Although I can, and do, enjoy a good Urban Fantasy, it HAS to have romance in it. And by romance I don’t mean sex. Those are two very different things. Riley Jenson has sex, but the romance was missing, along with Quinn.
Keri Arthur made me fall in love with Quinn and Riley in the first three books. I was angry with Quinn in the last book, but I wasn’t ready to let go of him—and I definitely was not ready to embrace Kellan. I just don’t feel the magic between the two the way I felt it with her and Quinn. I need to feel like there is romance somewhere in my novels and that’s what was missing for me in this book.
Now, with that being said, I will place my trust in this author. She’s brought me too much enjoyment to give up on her. Not only that, but I’ve read the reviews for the next book and Quinn is making a comeback, so I will definitely read the next book. I am keeping my fingers crossed that Quinn will be the hero I know he is and fight for his woman.
November 3, 2009
No picket fences yet for Riley.
The thing I love about these books is that Riley is such a capable kick butt heroine. Being a werewolf vampire crossbreed means that the bad guys tend to underestimate her. Even when her equally amazing brother is around to lend a hand, it is still Riley that saves the day. Riley continues to struggle with her love life and search for her soul mate, and she continues to develope amazing new powers as a result of a fertility drug she was slipped in book one. Many of the characters from previous books appear, notably missing is Quinn and the horse shifter. Dia and her daughter make an appearance and drop some prophetic hints as to Riley's future. Riley also has a chance at some payback to the pack that tormented her and her brother when they were pups.
This series still has plenty of places to go and I looking forward to seeing where it ends up. This series is probably more suspense than romance, even given Riley's lustful wolf nature, so there are some scenes with the aftermath of bloody violence. But these are easy to skip over if they bother you without losing any story threads.
The thing I love about these books is that Riley is such a capable kick butt heroine. Being a werewolf vampire crossbreed means that the bad guys tend to underestimate her. Even when her equally amazing brother is around to lend a hand, it is still Riley that saves the day. Riley continues to struggle with her love life and search for her soul mate, and she continues to develope amazing new powers as a result of a fertility drug she was slipped in book one. Many of the characters from previous books appear, notably missing is Quinn and the horse shifter. Dia and her daughter make an appearance and drop some prophetic hints as to Riley's future. Riley also has a chance at some payback to the pack that tormented her and her brother when they were pups.
This series still has plenty of places to go and I looking forward to seeing where it ends up. This series is probably more suspense than romance, even given Riley's lustful wolf nature, so there are some scenes with the aftermath of bloody violence. But these are easy to skip over if they bother you without losing any story threads.
August 2, 2009
I have to say that so far each book in this series has gotten a little bit better than the last one. Once again Riley is involved with another murder investigation with the Directorate. She's finally kicked Quinn to the curb and is spending quality time with Kellen. Some people from her and Rhoan's past make an appearance and ask Riley for a favor. However, these aren't friendly people and they don't ask nice. Kellen asks Riley to make an important decision in this book too.
I don't want to give away the ending to this book but let's just say by the middle of the book I could tell it was happening. I really love Rhoan though and wish he was in the books more, though he is in this book quite a bit. Quinn is only mentioned in this book which was nice. I liked him at first but his unfair demands on Riley grate on my nerves. It was nice not dealing with his drama. Although, I read he comes back in the next book. Ugh.
So anyways, it was excellent and I had a blast reading it.
I don't want to give away the ending to this book but let's just say by the middle of the book I could tell it was happening. I really love Rhoan though and wish he was in the books more, though he is in this book quite a bit. Quinn is only mentioned in this book which was nice. I liked him at first but his unfair demands on Riley grate on my nerves. It was nice not dealing with his drama. Although, I read he comes back in the next book. Ugh.
So anyways, it was excellent and I had a blast reading it.
February 1, 2019
I'm going to give this book a 3.5. Now don't get me wrong I still love my Riley Jensen, but come on now - no Quinn. Point deductions for that!!! It was an interesting story line and of course Riley is her usual kick-ass self. But on another note - how many times can this poor girl get shot full of silver and live to tell the tale....LOL. Obviously I'm glad she does but in this book it was a bit overkill. IMO. Still loving the series though.
October 23, 2008
No Quinn here :(
but plenty of action and lovin other wise.
BUT enough with the same adjectives and descriptions.
"kaleidoscope of sensation"
ugh
but plenty of action and lovin other wise.
BUT enough with the same adjectives and descriptions.
"kaleidoscope of sensation"
ugh
March 25, 2019
While on vacation Riley's old enemy from her pack demands she investigate the disappearance of his granddaughter or he'll kill her mother. She's asked to be one of her partners one and only and attempting to solve gruesome murders as a Guardian. Turns out the murders and disappearance are all related and Riley and her brother work hard to solve the case. Riley continues to use her new powers as they evolve and must come to a decision about Riley. The end is bittersweet.
More of my reviews can be found at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
More of my reviews can be found at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2019
This is amazing
I love the thrilling of the chase and the mystery when it comes to Riley Jenson books. Although its a bummer that didn't make an appearance, but I enjoy this so thoroughly just like I had for the past 4 books.
In this installment, we do glimpse into more of Riley's past with the appearance of pack members from Riley's former pack. One thing still remain mysterious is who is Riley's father and how did he met her mother with her being a werewolf?? I suspect this will be revealed in future books.
I am not a fan of Kellan but I still feel a tee wee sad for Riley not getting the happy ending she dream of. Man, I much prefer Quinn that hot vampire
I love the thrilling of the chase and the mystery when it comes to Riley Jenson books. Although its a bummer that didn't make an appearance, but I enjoy this so thoroughly just like I had for the past 4 books.
In this installment, we do glimpse into more of Riley's past with the appearance of pack members from Riley's former pack. One thing still remain mysterious is who is Riley's father and how did he met her mother with her being a werewolf?? I suspect this will be revealed in future books.
I am not a fan of Kellan but I still feel a tee wee sad for Riley not getting the happy ending she dream of. Man, I much prefer Quinn that hot vampire
December 28, 2019
I missed Quinn, but still an excellent story as Riley reluctantly goes on a mission to uncover a case of missing persons for her old pack while uncovering secrets.....
Still 4.5 stars as i missed Quinn.....
It wasn't as horror filled as previews books so was nice to have a little breathing room before im sure being plunged back in again!!!!!
Still 4.5 stars as i missed Quinn.....
It wasn't as horror filled as previews books so was nice to have a little breathing room before im sure being plunged back in again!!!!!
April 20, 2020
Love love this series
December 3, 2008
Riley Jenson needs all her supernatural abilities to hunt down a particularly eerie serial killer, in Keri Arthur's Embraced by Darkness.
Riley Jenson is one of the Directorate of Other Races' guardians, trained to hunt and destroy her prey. With both vampire and werewolf genes, she is mostly werewolf, but has a host of other paranormal skills: she can switch her vision to infrared, is clairvoyant, and can wrap shadows around herself. Mixing searching for a missing pack member and investigating recent serial murders, Riley's on the hunt.
Set in Melbourne, this series was first published in the US, thus there are terms that don't seem to fit with the Australian characters. "Cell phone" is used instead of "mobile phone". "Mom" is used instead of "mum". "Ass" is used instead of "arse". North American readers shouldn't find this a problem, but for Aussie me it's jarring, and took me out of the story. Mind you, it had been over a year since I'd read a Keri Arthur novel (I read the first four quickly and consecutively), so reading the novels back-to-back probably won't make the issue too distracting.
Be sure to read this novel before The Darkest Kiss, as the latter's first chapter deals with a spoiler from the former.
The narrative flows easily, and the final hunt is particularly engrossing - Keri Arthur improves with each novel. Riley usually has numerous sexual partners, but now she's considering going solo with Kellen. Though his name was familiar, I didn't remember much about him. He throws Riley's phone out the window of a limo, and from there on I didn't like him. The move had "control freak" written all over it, not to mention the careless waste of money. Riley deals with the situation rather calmly, but in real life losing a phone means losing all your contacts and perhaps important files. I don't find Kellen romantic; rather an ungrateful shite. It says something about him that Riley keeps pining for vampire Quinn, though I don't think he's any better.
And that whole mother thing in the book's summary? While that bit is featured, we don't actually end up meeting Riley's mum. But another issue from Riley's childhood comes to light, and a new supernatural ability saves the day. That she has so many powers gets her out of jams a bit too easily, and I don't care for her private life, but the rest of the book is fabulously intriguing and entertaining. That it's set in places familiar to me makes it all the more worthwhile.
Riley Jenson is one of the Directorate of Other Races' guardians, trained to hunt and destroy her prey. With both vampire and werewolf genes, she is mostly werewolf, but has a host of other paranormal skills: she can switch her vision to infrared, is clairvoyant, and can wrap shadows around herself. Mixing searching for a missing pack member and investigating recent serial murders, Riley's on the hunt.
Set in Melbourne, this series was first published in the US, thus there are terms that don't seem to fit with the Australian characters. "Cell phone" is used instead of "mobile phone". "Mom" is used instead of "mum". "Ass" is used instead of "arse". North American readers shouldn't find this a problem, but for Aussie me it's jarring, and took me out of the story. Mind you, it had been over a year since I'd read a Keri Arthur novel (I read the first four quickly and consecutively), so reading the novels back-to-back probably won't make the issue too distracting.
Be sure to read this novel before The Darkest Kiss, as the latter's first chapter deals with a spoiler from the former.
The narrative flows easily, and the final hunt is particularly engrossing - Keri Arthur improves with each novel. Riley usually has numerous sexual partners, but now she's considering going solo with Kellen. Though his name was familiar, I didn't remember much about him. He throws Riley's phone out the window of a limo, and from there on I didn't like him. The move had "control freak" written all over it, not to mention the careless waste of money. Riley deals with the situation rather calmly, but in real life losing a phone means losing all your contacts and perhaps important files. I don't find Kellen romantic; rather an ungrateful shite. It says something about him that Riley keeps pining for vampire Quinn, though I don't think he's any better.
And that whole mother thing in the book's summary? While that bit is featured, we don't actually end up meeting Riley's mum. But another issue from Riley's childhood comes to light, and a new supernatural ability saves the day. That she has so many powers gets her out of jams a bit too easily, and I don't care for her private life, but the rest of the book is fabulously intriguing and entertaining. That it's set in places familiar to me makes it all the more worthwhile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2011
Promosso a pieni voti anche questo quinto romanzo dedicato alla nostra Riley, mezzosangue metà licantropo e metà vampiro, che assieme al fratello gemello Rhoan si troverà nuovamente invischiata in una caccia all'assassino veramente particolare e sanguinariamente intrigante, per gli amanti del genere.
In questo romanzo, che vede mancare interamente il nostro beneamino Quinn (anche se il signorino si è più volte comportato male con Riley, ci manca), abbiamo il piacere di veder investigare assieme i due gemelli, rileggere di alcuni capitoli interamente dedicati ai due, senza amanti assatanati intorno, è veramente piacevole. Come è piacevole e incredibilmente divertente leggere dei loro scambi di battute e punzecchiature continue, Rhoan è sicuramente un fratello straordinario.
Un'altra nota molto, molto e ripetiamo "molto", positiva è la nostra Riley che, forse per la prima volta, si dimostra come qualcosa di più che una lupa in calore. Non che la ragazza non abbia avuto un profilo interessante, nei precedenti libri, tutt'altro, semplicemente usava continuamente la scusa del suo essere "lupo" come uno scudo dietro cui ripararsi e giustificarsi per il suo non riuscire (o non volere?) impegnarsi esclusivamente con Quinn, il vampiro che ama.
In questo caso il suo rapporto con l'Alfa Kellen si sta facendo sempre più importante e, alla proposta del suo compagno di renderlo esclusivo, Riley va in tilt dimostrando che, a tutti gli effetti, sente il bisogno di essere libera, ama la sua natura di lupo... o molto semplicemente che Kellen, per quanto perfetto per il suo sogno, non è perfetto per la sua realtà. Fare i conti con questi dubbi ha reso Riley più riflessiva e molto più profonda come personaggio; decisamente un passo avanti rispetto ai primi due libri.
Avremo il piacere di seguire Riley, caparbia e avventata come sempre, lungo una tortuosa caccia all'uomo, la ricerca di suo cugina scomparsa, la comparsa di nuovi poteri e la scomparsa di qualcuno di importante; dopotutto era stata avvertita.
Una profezia sul suo futuro farà impazzire, letteralmente, il lettore fra supposizioni, paure e speranze... Chi saranno i tre uomini importanti, nel bene e nel male, per Riley? Chi le farà del male? Chi si prenderà cura di lei? E perchè la Morte sembra osservarla senza toccarla?
Non ci resta che attendere con ansia il prossimo romanzo di Keri Arthur.
In questo romanzo, che vede mancare interamente il nostro beneamino Quinn (anche se il signorino si è più volte comportato male con Riley, ci manca), abbiamo il piacere di veder investigare assieme i due gemelli, rileggere di alcuni capitoli interamente dedicati ai due, senza amanti assatanati intorno, è veramente piacevole. Come è piacevole e incredibilmente divertente leggere dei loro scambi di battute e punzecchiature continue, Rhoan è sicuramente un fratello straordinario.
Un'altra nota molto, molto e ripetiamo "molto", positiva è la nostra Riley che, forse per la prima volta, si dimostra come qualcosa di più che una lupa in calore. Non che la ragazza non abbia avuto un profilo interessante, nei precedenti libri, tutt'altro, semplicemente usava continuamente la scusa del suo essere "lupo" come uno scudo dietro cui ripararsi e giustificarsi per il suo non riuscire (o non volere?) impegnarsi esclusivamente con Quinn, il vampiro che ama.
In questo caso il suo rapporto con l'Alfa Kellen si sta facendo sempre più importante e, alla proposta del suo compagno di renderlo esclusivo, Riley va in tilt dimostrando che, a tutti gli effetti, sente il bisogno di essere libera, ama la sua natura di lupo... o molto semplicemente che Kellen, per quanto perfetto per il suo sogno, non è perfetto per la sua realtà. Fare i conti con questi dubbi ha reso Riley più riflessiva e molto più profonda come personaggio; decisamente un passo avanti rispetto ai primi due libri.
Avremo il piacere di seguire Riley, caparbia e avventata come sempre, lungo una tortuosa caccia all'uomo, la ricerca di suo cugina scomparsa, la comparsa di nuovi poteri e la scomparsa di qualcuno di importante; dopotutto era stata avvertita.
Una profezia sul suo futuro farà impazzire, letteralmente, il lettore fra supposizioni, paure e speranze... Chi saranno i tre uomini importanti, nel bene e nel male, per Riley? Chi le farà del male? Chi si prenderà cura di lei? E perchè la Morte sembra osservarla senza toccarla?
Non ci resta che attendere con ansia il prossimo romanzo di Keri Arthur.
September 26, 2009
In the begining of the fifth installment of Keri Arthur's half werewolf, half vampire heroine, Riley Jenson, we find her chasing her tail with boredom on a forced vacation. Even the beauty of Monitor Island can't seem to calm the new huntress Riley finds rising inside her. But all the doubts and worries circling inside her are shoved aside when the Alpha of the red wolf pack shows up to get Riley to searching for a missing wolf of their pack. All the old hurts rise inside of Riley as she remembers how the pack treated her and Rhoane before driving them from the pack to fend for themselves. She tries to tell him off, in typical Riley fashion, but his threat to kill her mother forces her to take the impromptu job.
With this threat hanging over her head, Riley hightails it back to the mainland and her job as a Guardian. Looking into the disappearance of a wolf takes back seat to the job the Directorate suddenly hands her way. Human women are being torn apart by something evil and seemingly preternatural, although there is no proof that something other than a human is actually killing the women. Until the dead husband/lovers begin showing up dead with no mark of violence on them. Also leading Riley to believe the murders are preternatural is the new trick brought on by the ARC1-23 injection, the ability to see the spirits of the recently departed. The dead women's spirits give her clues that lead her to believe the murders and the missing wolf pack girl are suspiciously entertwined, so her wolf self tells her to let the hunt begin.
There are many side players who have reoccurring roles that brighten the entire story, such as Cole's with his witty crime scene banter, the Cow's snappy and snippy grudging assistance, Kellan's need for her to be his sole girl, Liander who is the strong man who loves her brother, and Rhoane, always there to back her up.
This book spins you about and makes you cheer Riley on just so we can read more. Keri Arthur is a delightful writer who gives depth to her world making it enjoyable, wonderful and pleasurable to read. I know I'll keep reading.
With this threat hanging over her head, Riley hightails it back to the mainland and her job as a Guardian. Looking into the disappearance of a wolf takes back seat to the job the Directorate suddenly hands her way. Human women are being torn apart by something evil and seemingly preternatural, although there is no proof that something other than a human is actually killing the women. Until the dead husband/lovers begin showing up dead with no mark of violence on them. Also leading Riley to believe the murders are preternatural is the new trick brought on by the ARC1-23 injection, the ability to see the spirits of the recently departed. The dead women's spirits give her clues that lead her to believe the murders and the missing wolf pack girl are suspiciously entertwined, so her wolf self tells her to let the hunt begin.
There are many side players who have reoccurring roles that brighten the entire story, such as Cole's with his witty crime scene banter, the Cow's snappy and snippy grudging assistance, Kellan's need for her to be his sole girl, Liander who is the strong man who loves her brother, and Rhoane, always there to back her up.
This book spins you about and makes you cheer Riley on just so we can read more. Keri Arthur is a delightful writer who gives depth to her world making it enjoyable, wonderful and pleasurable to read. I know I'll keep reading.
December 26, 2010
Synopsis: The book starts with Riley on holiday on Monitor island to recover from all the events of the last year (and last four books). She is contacted, in her head, by a member of her former pack, Blake Jenson, who demands that she looks into the disappearance of a pack member, Adrienne, and threatens to hurt Riley and Rhoan's mother if she doesn't comply. (A mother who in all aspects of life; abandoned them because of their dual heritage. Blake, it seems, is also the new alpha of the pack, and someone Riley and her brother Rhoan have no use for at all.
Half werewolf, half vampire Riley Jenson is now a full fledged guardian in the Directorate of Other Races thanks to a drug she was forced to take when she was kidnapped. If she wasn't in the directorate she would be involved with the military like others were forced do. Her brother warned her that being a guardian came with risks, and that he didn't want her to become one.
When she arrives back home she is given another assignment. Females are being torn apart by something evil and preternatural although nobody knows what is actual doing the killing. Once Riley puts a stop to the murders she swings her attention to the club Mirror Image where shifter and humans are allowed to dance with the end game being sex. Women connected to the club have disappeared and Riley believes that was the story Adrienne was working on before she disappeared and ended up dead. Now she has to retrace her footsteps and hope she and her twin brother Rhoan don't get killed by two human with supernatural powers.
I always wondered by the author didn't attempt to try to spin off Rhoan. His story is just as compelling as Riley's, although he wasn't experimented on, or drugged in order to cross breed with. I like the fact that Riley and Rhoan compliment each other; which shows up during the final battle with Blake at their old ranch.
Another plus, that is for me, the sex scenes were so in your face this time around. It was all about Riley trying to solve two mysteries and her relationship with members of her family she didn't know anything about.
Half werewolf, half vampire Riley Jenson is now a full fledged guardian in the Directorate of Other Races thanks to a drug she was forced to take when she was kidnapped. If she wasn't in the directorate she would be involved with the military like others were forced do. Her brother warned her that being a guardian came with risks, and that he didn't want her to become one.
When she arrives back home she is given another assignment. Females are being torn apart by something evil and preternatural although nobody knows what is actual doing the killing. Once Riley puts a stop to the murders she swings her attention to the club Mirror Image where shifter and humans are allowed to dance with the end game being sex. Women connected to the club have disappeared and Riley believes that was the story Adrienne was working on before she disappeared and ended up dead. Now she has to retrace her footsteps and hope she and her twin brother Rhoan don't get killed by two human with supernatural powers.
I always wondered by the author didn't attempt to try to spin off Rhoan. His story is just as compelling as Riley's, although he wasn't experimented on, or drugged in order to cross breed with. I like the fact that Riley and Rhoan compliment each other; which shows up during the final battle with Blake at their old ranch.
Another plus, that is for me, the sex scenes were so in your face this time around. It was all about Riley trying to solve two mysteries and her relationship with members of her family she didn't know anything about.
October 13, 2012
For me this was the weakest book, which considering how awesome this series is does not make this a bad book. Not in the least. However, every series has one book that just seems to lose some of the punch.
The mystery in Embraced by Darkness is probably where I had the biggest issue, because it was weaker then the other books and I could actually predict who the villains were and how everything was connected. Riley—again!!—kept leaving her weapon behind, and someone is basically out to kill her!!! (No really she has a hit man after her.) She kept making stupid mistakes because she didn't want to become a killer like her brother. Unlike, the previous books I found her struggle to remain "human" fell flat on it's butt, and left me feeling annoyed.
One thing EbD succeeded at was the emotional build up. Riley and Kerren's relationship is seriously going somewhere and I love them as a couple. Riley is having to face how she is sabotaging her own relationships and realizing what she really needs and wants. The journey is beautiful and only nearly dying can bring Riley to the truth. The ending of this book is heart breaking and the thing I loved—and despised—about this book.
In the end there is no turning back, Riley fans can't give up. The murder mysteries each book solves are fun, but at this point it's clear I'm going to stick around for Riley's love life. It's addicting getting heavy does of fast past action (of both kinds) and the adrenaline rush each page turn brings.
Sexual Content: Some lesbian and bisexual themes, though that’s not too new it’s just a bit more prominent. The serial killers in this book are nasty. The things they do to the women my not be sexual, but it is sickening.
2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out
Originally reviewed at Book Whispers.
The mystery in Embraced by Darkness is probably where I had the biggest issue, because it was weaker then the other books and I could actually predict who the villains were and how everything was connected. Riley—again!!—kept leaving her weapon behind, and someone is basically out to kill her!!! (No really she has a hit man after her.) She kept making stupid mistakes because she didn't want to become a killer like her brother. Unlike, the previous books I found her struggle to remain "human" fell flat on it's butt, and left me feeling annoyed.
One thing EbD succeeded at was the emotional build up. Riley and Kerren's relationship is seriously going somewhere and I love them as a couple. Riley is having to face how she is sabotaging her own relationships and realizing what she really needs and wants. The journey is beautiful and only nearly dying can bring Riley to the truth. The ending of this book is heart breaking and the thing I loved—and despised—about this book.
In the end there is no turning back, Riley fans can't give up. The murder mysteries each book solves are fun, but at this point it's clear I'm going to stick around for Riley's love life. It's addicting getting heavy does of fast past action (of both kinds) and the adrenaline rush each page turn brings.
Sexual Content: Some lesbian and bisexual themes, though that’s not too new it’s just a bit more prominent. The serial killers in this book are nasty. The things they do to the women my not be sexual, but it is sickening.
2/5- Average/disappointing, library check-out
Originally reviewed at Book Whispers.
August 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this latest installment in this series, although it felt different to the others in that it was more about Riley solving different crimes and investigating more than the sex and to be honest I preferred it.
Riley works on two cases here - one officially and the other unofficially at first until the Directorate becomes involved. The first is baffling - human men killing their girlfriends/wives in the most brutal of ways and then the men dying not too far from the crime scene, seemingly of a heart attack. This was a disturbing case and one I really enjoyed Riley figuring out and solving, even if she didn't enjoy using her abilities to talk to the souls of the dead!
The other case involves the Alpha from her previous pack and why Riley decides to help investigate it for him I don't know, even with the threat of him killing her mother. Her pack, including her mother, have treated both her and Rhoan like scum since they were kids until they finally kicked them out of the pack, so why would she bow down to him now and do what he demands was beyond me. I would have told him where to go! But she does it! She works this one with Rhoan and I would love to see them work more cases together as they work well alongside each other. She did get the opportunity to stand up to her Alpha and show that she is no longer the frightened little pup she used to be and I would like to think she will be left alone by him now.
With Quinn out of the picture throughout this whole book, Riley has some decisions to make about her love life with Kellen and as much she wants the dream, she not 100% sure she can take what he offers, but once she makes a decision, so does he and that decision changes everything for them both!
Looking forward to finishing this series off now!
Riley works on two cases here - one officially and the other unofficially at first until the Directorate becomes involved. The first is baffling - human men killing their girlfriends/wives in the most brutal of ways and then the men dying not too far from the crime scene, seemingly of a heart attack. This was a disturbing case and one I really enjoyed Riley figuring out and solving, even if she didn't enjoy using her abilities to talk to the souls of the dead!
The other case involves the Alpha from her previous pack and why Riley decides to help investigate it for him I don't know, even with the threat of him killing her mother. Her pack, including her mother, have treated both her and Rhoan like scum since they were kids until they finally kicked them out of the pack, so why would she bow down to him now and do what he demands was beyond me. I would have told him where to go! But she does it! She works this one with Rhoan and I would love to see them work more cases together as they work well alongside each other. She did get the opportunity to stand up to her Alpha and show that she is no longer the frightened little pup she used to be and I would like to think she will be left alone by him now.
With Quinn out of the picture throughout this whole book, Riley has some decisions to make about her love life with Kellen and as much she wants the dream, she not 100% sure she can take what he offers, but once she makes a decision, so does he and that decision changes everything for them both!
Looking forward to finishing this series off now!
February 6, 2016
Description:
She's hunting a killer—and shattering every boundary—she's ever known.…
Part vamp, part werewolf, Riley Jenson plays by her own rules, whether it’s her stormy love life or her job as a guardian. But when her family’s alpha male demands that she solve the mystery of a vanished girl, Riley can feel a trap closing in around her. Because the job comes with a catch: if Riley fails, her own mother will die.
Now the stakes are raised, the hunt is on...and when more women vanish, Riley is caught between a lover who demands that she give up her work, a serial killer who knows no boundaries, and a club where humans and supernaturals mix—at their own peril. Thrust into a realm of seduction and violence unlike any she could have imagined, Riley has to battle to save everything she holds dear. But the ultimate hunt has only just begun..
my review:
In the 5th Riley Jensen series by Keri Arthur you'll find a fast paced story. Riley will have to deal with having to solve 2 crimes, her abilities and of course her love life. I think so far this is my favorite book in the series. I liked #4 more than I did the first 3 but this one focuses less on mindless sex and more on the story line.
She's hunting a killer—and shattering every boundary—she's ever known.…
Part vamp, part werewolf, Riley Jenson plays by her own rules, whether it’s her stormy love life or her job as a guardian. But when her family’s alpha male demands that she solve the mystery of a vanished girl, Riley can feel a trap closing in around her. Because the job comes with a catch: if Riley fails, her own mother will die.
Now the stakes are raised, the hunt is on...and when more women vanish, Riley is caught between a lover who demands that she give up her work, a serial killer who knows no boundaries, and a club where humans and supernaturals mix—at their own peril. Thrust into a realm of seduction and violence unlike any she could have imagined, Riley has to battle to save everything she holds dear. But the ultimate hunt has only just begun..
my review:
In the 5th Riley Jensen series by Keri Arthur you'll find a fast paced story. Riley will have to deal with having to solve 2 crimes, her abilities and of course her love life. I think so far this is my favorite book in the series. I liked #4 more than I did the first 3 but this one focuses less on mindless sex and more on the story line.
January 28, 2015
Slight spoilers ahead.
I have absolutely loved this series thus far and was excited to start this book. For me, this book was a little lacking (compared to the previous books in the series). Riley finally decided to go after her dreams and try to settle down with Kellan. Kellan, rightly so, has decided that he can't continue to be second to Riley's job - a job he can't protect her from -- and that is playing havoc with the alpha wolf.
Even though I'm "team Quinn", he wasn't in this book, except for in Riley's thoughts (and that is a big statement). At one point she thought her life might be coming to an end and she thought of Quinn. Interesting... This reader hopes that Quinn gets his shit together as I think Riley and Quinn would be an awesome couple.
Riley is working on solving 2 cases. The case of the women being slaughtered seemed to resolve itself too quickly. And the case with the pack was a bit more interesting, but not nearly as exciting as the cases in the previous books.
This was still interesting. Maybe this book is just a stepping stone until the next book -- this reader hopes that is the case.
Still worth reading -- just missing something.
I have absolutely loved this series thus far and was excited to start this book. For me, this book was a little lacking (compared to the previous books in the series). Riley finally decided to go after her dreams and try to settle down with Kellan. Kellan, rightly so, has decided that he can't continue to be second to Riley's job - a job he can't protect her from -- and that is playing havoc with the alpha wolf.
Even though I'm "team Quinn", he wasn't in this book, except for in Riley's thoughts (and that is a big statement). At one point she thought her life might be coming to an end and she thought of Quinn. Interesting... This reader hopes that Quinn gets his shit together as I think Riley and Quinn would be an awesome couple.
Riley is working on solving 2 cases. The case of the women being slaughtered seemed to resolve itself too quickly. And the case with the pack was a bit more interesting, but not nearly as exciting as the cases in the previous books.
This was still interesting. Maybe this book is just a stepping stone until the next book -- this reader hopes that is the case.
Still worth reading -- just missing something.
July 19, 2010
I am a big fan of this series, it just gets better. The main character, Riley is a half-werewolf, half-vampire who is constantly putting her life on the line ridding the world of bad vampires/shifters/demons/crazy humans, etc… Riley is really growing up, learning how to accept and adjust to her circumstances. I have always liked Riley for accepting her nature and having a pretty good self-esteem. So, even though her character is going through massive changes, she rolls with the punches pretty good.
This book was a bit different in that Riley is working on 2 different cases at once, she's a busy girl and there's never a dull moment. As far as her love life, Riley shows maturity and growth there, and that's refreshing to see. Many times in books, characters never change their vices. I really liked the ending, how the issues with the pack were resolved. I do feel for Riley on the emotional front, but don't want to get into it with the spoilers…..so, book 6 here I come
This book was a bit different in that Riley is working on 2 different cases at once, she's a busy girl and there's never a dull moment. As far as her love life, Riley shows maturity and growth there, and that's refreshing to see. Many times in books, characters never change their vices. I really liked the ending, how the issues with the pack were resolved. I do feel for Riley on the emotional front, but don't want to get into it with the spoilers…..so, book 6 here I come
January 12, 2016
It's strange, but there's something relaxing about reading these books, even though I'm not really that into this series. They're a bit too dark and gruesome for my tastes. I also find them a little boring because Riley thinks so much and keeps repeating things over and over and over... The overriding theme of this particular book is that Riley prefers hazelnut coffee, but several things are almost as good.
I did have an "oh that sucks" moment at the end of the book. It's amazing how often Quinn was mentioned without actually appearing in the book. I guess we know what that means.
I thought the bird scene was cute, but that's probably mostly because I have a soft spot for birdies.
I guess that, after five books, I shouldn't still hope the writing changes. I got pretty annoyed that the entire end of the book was Riley telling the baddies that guardians are awesome and that they're underestimating her, because she's a guardian. Because she is a guardian, you know.
I did have an "oh that sucks" moment at the end of the book. It's amazing how often Quinn was mentioned without actually appearing in the book. I guess we know what that means.
I thought the bird scene was cute, but that's probably mostly because I have a soft spot for birdies.
I guess that, after five books, I shouldn't still hope the writing changes. I got pretty annoyed that the entire end of the book was Riley telling the baddies that guardians are awesome and that they're underestimating her, because she's a guardian. Because she is a guardian, you know.
February 23, 2008
Before moving to Melbourne with her twin, Riley and Rhoan were part of a werewolf pack that treated them poorly. Now, the Alpha is in town demanding she take on a mission for him. A girl has gone missing and Riley's mother will die if she doesn't do as the Alpha requests.
She's also trying to give everything to her relationship with Kellen, another werewolf and an Alpha, but he doesn't want to share her with her job as a Guardian.
The fifth book in the series, it wasn't as gripping as the previous books, and I was disappointed - even though it wouldn't have worked, plot-wise - that Quinn doesn't appear in this one.
It's still quite good and you do need to read it for the arching plot-line that is Riley's life, especially as she discovers a new side-effect to the drug she was given by Talon back in the first book.
She's also trying to give everything to her relationship with Kellen, another werewolf and an Alpha, but he doesn't want to share her with her job as a Guardian.
The fifth book in the series, it wasn't as gripping as the previous books, and I was disappointed - even though it wouldn't have worked, plot-wise - that Quinn doesn't appear in this one.
It's still quite good and you do need to read it for the arching plot-line that is Riley's life, especially as she discovers a new side-effect to the drug she was given by Talon back in the first book.
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