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Elemental World #3
The Scarlet Deep
On the waves of the North Atlantic, a poison spreads, sapping the life from humans and striking madness into immortals.
Patrick Murphy, the immortal leader of Dublin, has been trying to stem the tide of Elixir washing into his territory, but nothing seems to stop the vampire drug. While others in the immortal world work to cure the creeping insanity that Elixir threatens, Murphy has been invited to London to join a summit of leaders hoping to discover who is shipping the drug. If Murphy and his allies can cut off the supply, they might be able to halt the spread long enough for a treatment to be found for the humans and vampires infected.
Anne O’Dea, Murphy’s former lover, retreated from public life over one hundred years ago to help immortals in need… and to heal her own broken heart. Though powerful connections keep her insulated from the violence of vampire politics, even Anne is starting to feel the effects of Elixir on her isolated world. The human blood supply has been tainted, and with Anne’s unique needs, even those closest to her might be in danger. Not just from infection, but Anne’s escalating bloodlust.
When Anne and Murphy are both called to London, they’re forced to confront a connection as immortal as they are. As they search for a traitor among allies, they must also come to terms with their past. Behind the safe facade of politics, old hungers still burn, even as an ancient power threatens the fate of the Elemental World.
Patrick Murphy, the immortal leader of Dublin, has been trying to stem the tide of Elixir washing into his territory, but nothing seems to stop the vampire drug. While others in the immortal world work to cure the creeping insanity that Elixir threatens, Murphy has been invited to London to join a summit of leaders hoping to discover who is shipping the drug. If Murphy and his allies can cut off the supply, they might be able to halt the spread long enough for a treatment to be found for the humans and vampires infected.
Anne O’Dea, Murphy’s former lover, retreated from public life over one hundred years ago to help immortals in need… and to heal her own broken heart. Though powerful connections keep her insulated from the violence of vampire politics, even Anne is starting to feel the effects of Elixir on her isolated world. The human blood supply has been tainted, and with Anne’s unique needs, even those closest to her might be in danger. Not just from infection, but Anne’s escalating bloodlust.
When Anne and Murphy are both called to London, they’re forced to confront a connection as immortal as they are. As they search for a traitor among allies, they must also come to terms with their past. Behind the safe facade of politics, old hungers still burn, even as an ancient power threatens the fate of the Elemental World.
ebook
First published July 7, 2015
About the author
Elizabeth Hunter
77 books5,847 followersELIZABETH HUNTER is a ten-time USA Today bestselling author of romance, contemporary fantasy, and paranormal mystery. Based in Central California and Addis Ababa, she travels extensively to write fantasy fiction exploring world mythologies, history, and the universal bonds of love, friendship, and family.
She has published over forty works of fiction and sold over three million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
She has published over forty works of fiction and sold over three million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
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July 21, 2016Hey, guess what? I wrote another book!
I am so excited to announce THE SCARLET DEEP, the first Elemental World novel in over two years! (Yikes, hadn't really put together that it had been that long.) It'll be out on July 7th and I'm pretty happy about it. I had a blast writing this book. It was so fun to dive into this world again and head back to Dublin and London to hang out with Murphy, Anne, Carwyn, Brigid, and a bunch of other favorites. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
I am so excited to announce THE SCARLET DEEP, the first Elemental World novel in over two years! (Yikes, hadn't really put together that it had been that long.) It'll be out on July 7th and I'm pretty happy about it. I had a blast writing this book. It was so fun to dive into this world again and head back to Dublin and London to hang out with Murphy, Anne, Carwyn, Brigid, and a bunch of other favorites. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
October 15, 2015
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
I'm a big fan of Elizabeth Hunter. She's probably the most consistently excellent independent author I've found.That being said, I've had less luck with this series—a paranormal romance spinoff of ELEMENTAL MYSTERIES, her flagship urban fantasy series.
I'd thought it was ye olde UF vs. PNR debate. <------there are maybe two PNR series that I keep up with (and I'm two or three books behind in one of them).
I still liked the two prior books in ELEMENTAL WORLD . . . I just didn't love them the way I loved their UF predecessor.
However, I did love WATERLOCKED, a novella that takes place between books 1 and 2, and the combination of that novella plus this newest installment made me realize something: it wasn't the PNR that was giving me issues.
It was the hero.
Of the two previous main love interests, one was a samurai warrior-type with all the implicated fixations on duty and honor, and the other was a 1000+ years old priest who loves WWE and Hawaiian print shirts.
Both were great secondary characters, but as main characters, I found them lacking.
But that's on me.
The main love interests in WATERLOCKED and THE SCARLET DEEP? Variations of criminal masterminds who are mightily alpha. Deliciously alpha. Seductively alpha. *swoons*
So what? I have a type. #sorrynotsorry
Patrick Murphy is that type.
Ann O’Dea is his type. So much so that even after a hundred years of separation, he can't keep her out of his thoughts, and, by golly, it's time to get her back.
So that's what he sets out to do.
*swoons some more*
But this installment is so much more than a simple boy-determined-to-win-girl story. The main plot line progressed at a steady pace, introducing a handful of new characters, and revealing a new Evil Mastermind. I lol’d frequently enough to be glad I was reading in the privacy of my own home, and my eyes burned (b/c FEELS) almost as often.
I loved it. L-O-V-E-D it.
Back to the new characters, one in particular struck my fancy, and I'm desperately hopeful he'll be in the spotlight soon: Cormac O’Brien
*nods emphatically at Hunter**pleads* *genuflects*
But the best part was the prologue.
Prologues can only go one of two ways for me. Either they're OMG amazing or absolutely worthless. The uber short ones are almost always worthless, and when I saw the Coleridge quote (not my favorite), I almost bypassed it entirely. BUT. This is Hunter. So I gave it a go . . .
WHOA . . . o.O <------that's a direct quote from my notes. Most of the time I try to elaborate, but that pretty much covers it. Now it's time for you to check out Hunter, too.
Highly recommended.
I'm a big fan of Elizabeth Hunter. She's probably the most consistently excellent independent author I've found.That being said, I've had less luck with this series—a paranormal romance spinoff of ELEMENTAL MYSTERIES, her flagship urban fantasy series.
I'd thought it was ye olde UF vs. PNR debate. <------there are maybe two PNR series that I keep up with (and I'm two or three books behind in one of them).
I still liked the two prior books in ELEMENTAL WORLD . . . I just didn't love them the way I loved their UF predecessor.
However, I did love WATERLOCKED, a novella that takes place between books 1 and 2, and the combination of that novella plus this newest installment made me realize something: it wasn't the PNR that was giving me issues.
It was the hero.
Of the two previous main love interests, one was a samurai warrior-type with all the implicated fixations on duty and honor, and the other was a 1000+ years old priest who loves WWE and Hawaiian print shirts.
Both were great secondary characters, but as main characters, I found them lacking.
But that's on me.
The main love interests in WATERLOCKED and THE SCARLET DEEP? Variations of criminal masterminds who are mightily alpha. Deliciously alpha. Seductively alpha. *swoons*
So what? I have a type. #sorrynotsorry
Patrick Murphy is that type.
Ann O’Dea is his type. So much so that even after a hundred years of separation, he can't keep her out of his thoughts, and, by golly, it's time to get her back.
So that's what he sets out to do.
*swoons some more*
But this installment is so much more than a simple boy-determined-to-win-girl story. The main plot line progressed at a steady pace, introducing a handful of new characters, and revealing a new Evil Mastermind. I lol’d frequently enough to be glad I was reading in the privacy of my own home, and my eyes burned (b/c FEELS) almost as often.
I loved it. L-O-V-E-D it.
Back to the new characters, one in particular struck my fancy, and I'm desperately hopeful he'll be in the spotlight soon: Cormac O’Brien
He appeared to be in his mid-thirties. He wore a full beard and a pocket watch that made Anne wonder if he still reminisced fondly over the late nineteenth century. The rest of his clothes seemed designed to distract. His glasses were likely an affectation—she’d never met an eye problem that immortality didn’t cure—but they suited him. His waist-coat was blood-red velvet, and he wore a worn tweed jacket over it. Dark plaid trousers and black motorcycle boots rounded out the look.
*nods emphatically at Hunter**pleads* *genuflects*
But the best part was the prologue.
Prologues can only go one of two ways for me. Either they're OMG amazing or absolutely worthless. The uber short ones are almost always worthless, and when I saw the Coleridge quote (not my favorite), I almost bypassed it entirely. BUT. This is Hunter. So I gave it a go . . .
Water, water, everywhere,
And all the boards did shrink;
Water, water, everywhere,
Nor any drop to drink.
—The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
WHEN SHE DREAMED, she dreamed of death and madness. Of the deep and of forgotten things. The moon shone full through the water, and the drifting weeds surrounded her as she stared into the night sky.
The water enveloped her. The pulse of the current took her and she drifted deeper.
Past the edge of land.
Beyond the silken brush of reeds.
She sank past the touch of moonlight, where the chill of the water crept into her bones and settled her soul.
But the hunger…
The ever-present gnaw in her belly, like the ache of a newborn, stalked her.
In the cradle of darkness, she bit down and drank her own blood.
WHOA . . . o.O <------that's a direct quote from my notes. Most of the time I try to elaborate, but that pretty much covers it. Now it's time for you to check out Hunter, too.
Highly recommended.
July 5, 2015
Elizabeth Hunter is an epic world builder and a brilliant writer of addictive fiction.
This book was fantastic. In fact, it was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! You know a book is fantastic when you immediately go back and re-read your favorite parts after finishing.
She brings the romance: "He looked at you as if you were his next breath..."
And had some laugh out loud moments: "I'm not sure the discourse you're interested in is proper at all."
And special appearances by some of my favorite characters:
"Sounds like the subject of a bad romance novel."
"I disagree," Carwyn said. "That sounds like a rather excellent romance novel."
And some lovely bits of poignancy&wisdom: "Life is one long series of making mistakes and seeking grace..."
In typical Elizabeth Hunter fashion, we also get intrigue and mystery, more layers to this wonderful world she's created, and stellar characterization/people (er... vampires) we truly care about. But honestly, for me, it was the romance between Murphy and Anne that left me feeling airy chested with a giant smile on my face. Murphy is scorching (which is surprising since he's a water vampire) and Anne is wonderful, someone I'd like to know and be friends with.
So, yeah... I love this book. Now, when is the next book coming out!?!?!
Pre-reading:
My level of excitement...
This book was fantastic. In fact, it was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! You know a book is fantastic when you immediately go back and re-read your favorite parts after finishing.
She brings the romance: "He looked at you as if you were his next breath..."
And had some laugh out loud moments: "I'm not sure the discourse you're interested in is proper at all."
And special appearances by some of my favorite characters:
"Sounds like the subject of a bad romance novel."
"I disagree," Carwyn said. "That sounds like a rather excellent romance novel."
And some lovely bits of poignancy&wisdom: "Life is one long series of making mistakes and seeking grace..."
In typical Elizabeth Hunter fashion, we also get intrigue and mystery, more layers to this wonderful world she's created, and stellar characterization/people (er... vampires) we truly care about. But honestly, for me, it was the romance between Murphy and Anne that left me feeling airy chested with a giant smile on my face. Murphy is scorching (which is surprising since he's a water vampire) and Anne is wonderful, someone I'd like to know and be friends with.
So, yeah... I love this book. Now, when is the next book coming out!?!?!
Pre-reading:
My level of excitement...
July 7, 2015
DNF at 35%.
In what universe is this romance? No seriously, how the fuck is this romance?
FUCK THIS. This is not romance.
In what universe is this romance? No seriously, how the fuck is this romance?
FUCK THIS. This is not romance.
July 19, 2015
I have read this author’s entire Elemental Mysteries and Elemental World Series and have found them to be totally addictive. I am beyond happy every time a new book comes out so that I can be taken, once again, into the fantasy world that she has created.
This is the 3rd book in Elizabeth Hunter's awesome Elemental World Series.
We have met Patrick Murphy, the immortal leader of Dublin and Dr Anne O'Dea, healer who helps immortals deal with problems in their lives, in the previous books and I was looking forward to knowing more about these two characters.
Patrick & Anne’s story was absolutely stunning. This is a compelling couple with a shared past, who have been unable to forget each other.
The appearance of some of my favorite characters from the previous books - Carwyn ap Bryn & Brigid Connor and Baojia & Natalie Ellis was an absolute added bonus.
How can you not fall in love with these unique and endearing characters that make this series such a brilliant and compelling page-turner read.
This is not a standalone book and should be read after the first three books….my book reviews on this series are here:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
I am looking forward to the next book!!!!
This is the 3rd book in Elizabeth Hunter's awesome Elemental World Series.
We have met Patrick Murphy, the immortal leader of Dublin and Dr Anne O'Dea, healer who helps immortals deal with problems in their lives, in the previous books and I was looking forward to knowing more about these two characters.
Patrick & Anne’s story was absolutely stunning. This is a compelling couple with a shared past, who have been unable to forget each other.
Former mated and lovers, they have been apart for over 70 years and now find themselves together again and unable to keep the strong feelings they have for each other below the surface.
I adored Patrick & Anne together. The love for each other was palpable and it was a joy to see them find each other again….
A love story of second chances, redemption, betrayal, mystery, romance, humor, family that takes you deeper into the vampire world struggling to finding the secrets of the Elixir drug that could have devastating consequences to both vampire and human lives filled with intrigue and politics.
The appearance of some of my favorite characters from the previous books - Carwyn ap Bryn & Brigid Connor and Baojia & Natalie Ellis was an absolute added bonus.
How can you not fall in love with these unique and endearing characters that make this series such a brilliant and compelling page-turner read.
This is not a standalone book and should be read after the first three books….my book reviews on this series are here:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
I am looking forward to the next book!!!!
July 4, 2015
OK, first off just for total transparency (I am not a politician so that means I am going to honestly tell you something), I have read every Elemental book Elizabeth Hunter has written and the one I wrote for her first Elemental Mysteries book (A Hidden Fire) is still the most popular review I have ever written even though I feel it is pretty inadequate.
So by saying that I follow with this, The Scarlet Deep in many ways may be one of the best since those original 4 books, it strung me along for a bit but the more I read the more I wanted to read, this book actually has a “mystery” that needs to get solved and I almost felt by the time I got there is was almost anticlimactic.
The other part of this story (like all her books) is the romance, this time it is different because the 2 involved Patrick and Anne are not strangers and no “insta-love” is required, they were once mated (well I guess they still are) but she left almost 100 years ago because he broke her trust in ways that are best discovered by the reader.
Between trying to find out who is poisoning the world with Elixir he is trying to regain the trust of his estranged mate Anne and she is not going to make it easy for him.
The story moves slowly at first as most of her novels do and picks up momentum as it goes along to a conclusion that has you trying to guess “whodunit” while hoping these two can put old hurts aside but these are major hurts and not easily done.
Bottom Line: A great story, a wonderful couple, a mystery you had to wait until the author shows you because too many people have a reason to be guilty. If I have any complaints it would be the slow start and maybe a short letdown around the 60% mark but nothing worth subtracting more than half a star do 4.5 Stars rounded to 5 and highly recommended and while you could probably enjoy this book stand alone, I seriously recommend you start with A Hidden Fire and work your way through these excellent novels.
So by saying that I follow with this, The Scarlet Deep in many ways may be one of the best since those original 4 books, it strung me along for a bit but the more I read the more I wanted to read, this book actually has a “mystery” that needs to get solved and I almost felt by the time I got there is was almost anticlimactic.
The other part of this story (like all her books) is the romance, this time it is different because the 2 involved Patrick and Anne are not strangers and no “insta-love” is required, they were once mated (well I guess they still are) but she left almost 100 years ago because he broke her trust in ways that are best discovered by the reader.
Between trying to find out who is poisoning the world with Elixir he is trying to regain the trust of his estranged mate Anne and she is not going to make it easy for him.
The story moves slowly at first as most of her novels do and picks up momentum as it goes along to a conclusion that has you trying to guess “whodunit” while hoping these two can put old hurts aside but these are major hurts and not easily done.
Bottom Line: A great story, a wonderful couple, a mystery you had to wait until the author shows you because too many people have a reason to be guilty. If I have any complaints it would be the slow start and maybe a short letdown around the 60% mark but nothing worth subtracting more than half a star do 4.5 Stars rounded to 5 and highly recommended and while you could probably enjoy this book stand alone, I seriously recommend you start with A Hidden Fire and work your way through these excellent novels.
December 30, 2019
I read this book because I read another from this author and was suitably impressed. This one is a fucking joke! You want me to believe in them being mates, but he can pretty much screw around and throw multiple women in her face over the years, while she is practically a fucking nun? Are you kidding me? I suppose I should be happy that she had at least had a few lovers, but hardly any, and none for YEARS!!! But don't worry, it's all HER fault why he fucked around. And then it seriously takes one-point-two nano seconds for her to fall back into bed with him as soon as HE wants her again. Did I believe that he loved her so much over the years? Of course I didn't. Do I think he'll be faithful? Of course I don't. I honestly think that after the novelty of having her in his life again wears off, he'll think of something else to piss her off, or put her in yet another impossible situation where she is forced to leave (i.e. take advantage of her or use her in some way like before), so he can go back to his manwhoring ways. It would be perfectly fine if she got some great action, too...then this wouldn't piss me off. But him never going without, while she has some very mediocre sex (because no one will ever be him) just makes me fucking angry for the heroine!
I think I'm going to skip this series. Should have just stuck with the other series I tried of hers.
I think I'm going to skip this series. Should have just stuck with the other series I tried of hers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2018
Mates but they can live without each other and sleep with other people? Not my idea of true mates!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2015
“...You were a force of nature.”
4 stars
This is the third book in the Elemental World series, which is a spin off of the Elemental Mysteries series. I am a mad fan of these books, and couldn’t wait to immerse myself back into Elizabeth Hunter’s intriguing and exciting world. Full of vampires, magic, romance, political wrangling, and fabulously dry and hilarious banter, this was such a fun read, I loved it!
Patrick Murphy is the vampire leader of Dublin. He’s a political badass and a bit of a player, but deep down he’s a deeply feeling and sentimental man. Anne O’Dea is a vampire therapist. She lives a quiet, controlled and private life on the coast, spending her days helping immortals in need. Murphy and Anne were both introduced in book 1 of this series - Building From Ashes, however their secret past has not been revealed until now –100 years ago, Murphy and Anne were lovers and were each other’s whole world. But stupidity and stubbornness tore them apart, leaving them both broken hearted and trying to live the rest of their lives without their other halves.
Murphy is now focussed on trying to stop the flow of Elixir into his city. Elixir is a drug that is deadly to both humans and vampires with no known cure, and the body count is growing. When he is called to a summit in London to discuss the growing problem and try to find the source, he uses the opportunity to pull a very reluctant Anne back into his world.
And from the moment they are reunited – FIREWORKS! Wow. The chemistry and passion between Murphy and Anne is explosive – both in and out of the bedroom. The sexual tension that underlies each and every encounter is fantastic, and amidst all the animosity, banter and teasing, they start to open up to each other, and reveal that the emotion that they once felt for each other is still very much present.
It makes for a very intense reconnection, and I loved each and every one of their interactions. Their love for each other is deep and the uniquely powerful bond that they share is beautifully explored, but they have a lot to work through before they can find their happy ever after, and I loved watching them challenge each other. Funny, romantic and deliciously steamy, it’s a total swoonfest.
And it all takes place alongsie the mystery and political drama of the ongoing Elixir investigations, and the tense relationships between the vampire leaders who are attending the summit. Secrets, lies, murder and betrayal all add to the intrigue, with potentially devastating consequences, and combine nicely with the romantic storyline to create an exciting and engaging read.
But it’s not all heavy and serious. Murphy has a wonderfully dry sense of humour, and when you add Carwyn and Terry to the mix, it’s gold! The dynamics between the characters are fantastic, and the banter and teasing is hilarious!
The oter couples from the spin-off series all play a part. Terrence & Gemma feature, and there’s even a quick glimpse of Baojia & Natalie. But Carwyn & Brigid are a huge part of the action - Brigid is best friends with Anne and works for Murphy - and, of course, wherever Brigid is, Carwyn is, and he is sweet and hilarious as always.
I loved this book! I loved being back in this world, and Elizabeth Hunter has given us a great romance with lots of action, intrigue and excitement, and it ties in beautifully with the overarching storyline that links these books together. I’d definitely recommend reading this book as part of the series – firstly because it’s awesome, and secondly so that you know the background on the characters, and how everything pieces together. For fans of the series, it’s a definite must-read.
4 stars.
4 stars
This is the third book in the Elemental World series, which is a spin off of the Elemental Mysteries series. I am a mad fan of these books, and couldn’t wait to immerse myself back into Elizabeth Hunter’s intriguing and exciting world. Full of vampires, magic, romance, political wrangling, and fabulously dry and hilarious banter, this was such a fun read, I loved it!
Patrick Murphy is the vampire leader of Dublin. He’s a political badass and a bit of a player, but deep down he’s a deeply feeling and sentimental man. Anne O’Dea is a vampire therapist. She lives a quiet, controlled and private life on the coast, spending her days helping immortals in need. Murphy and Anne were both introduced in book 1 of this series - Building From Ashes, however their secret past has not been revealed until now –100 years ago, Murphy and Anne were lovers and were each other’s whole world. But stupidity and stubbornness tore them apart, leaving them both broken hearted and trying to live the rest of their lives without their other halves.
Murphy is now focussed on trying to stop the flow of Elixir into his city. Elixir is a drug that is deadly to both humans and vampires with no known cure, and the body count is growing. When he is called to a summit in London to discuss the growing problem and try to find the source, he uses the opportunity to pull a very reluctant Anne back into his world.
And from the moment they are reunited – FIREWORKS! Wow. The chemistry and passion between Murphy and Anne is explosive – both in and out of the bedroom. The sexual tension that underlies each and every encounter is fantastic, and amidst all the animosity, banter and teasing, they start to open up to each other, and reveal that the emotion that they once felt for each other is still very much present.
“You seduced me when you were young and reckless. But now? You could conquer me completely if I let my guard down. I’d have no chance.”
“Does that scare you?”
“Yes.”
His eyes softened. “Don’t be scared.”
It makes for a very intense reconnection, and I loved each and every one of their interactions. Their love for each other is deep and the uniquely powerful bond that they share is beautifully explored, but they have a lot to work through before they can find their happy ever after, and I loved watching them challenge each other. Funny, romantic and deliciously steamy, it’s a total swoonfest.
“I’m a bastard who has no claim over you, and it doesn’t matter because I want you. I want to keep you. I want to bite you. I want to make love to you every night. I want to have you to confide in. I want to make you laugh. Mostly I want to be your world again. Because the last time I felt alive was when I was inside you.”
Anne whispered, “You realize that’s highly dysfunctional, don’t you?”
“Yes, and I don’t care.”
And it all takes place alongsie the mystery and political drama of the ongoing Elixir investigations, and the tense relationships between the vampire leaders who are attending the summit. Secrets, lies, murder and betrayal all add to the intrigue, with potentially devastating consequences, and combine nicely with the romantic storyline to create an exciting and engaging read.
“Love is messy, but it’s worth it. It’s worth fighting for.”
But it’s not all heavy and serious. Murphy has a wonderfully dry sense of humour, and when you add Carwyn and Terry to the mix, it’s gold! The dynamics between the characters are fantastic, and the banter and teasing is hilarious!
“Who gave you permission to speak, Murphy?” Jetta asked. “This is Terry’s summit.”
“I suppose that’s true,” Terry said, “But I’m fucking pissed off at all of you, so I decided I’d let him talk.”
“And with that gracious introduction,” Murphy continued, “I’ll proceed.”
The oter couples from the spin-off series all play a part. Terrence & Gemma feature, and there’s even a quick glimpse of Baojia & Natalie. But Carwyn & Brigid are a huge part of the action - Brigid is best friends with Anne and works for Murphy - and, of course, wherever Brigid is, Carwyn is, and he is sweet and hilarious as always.
…He watched her walk away. Gemma and Carwyn were silent. Brigid was glaring.
“What?” he asked them, sipping his drink.
“What was that?” Brigid said.
“I’m not going to explain myself to you lot.”
Carwyn craned his neck around to shoot a pointed look at Anne’s retreating figure. “Maybe you should. Just to practice.”
I loved this book! I loved being back in this world, and Elizabeth Hunter has given us a great romance with lots of action, intrigue and excitement, and it ties in beautifully with the overarching storyline that links these books together. I’d definitely recommend reading this book as part of the series – firstly because it’s awesome, and secondly so that you know the background on the characters, and how everything pieces together. For fans of the series, it’s a definite must-read.
4 stars.
July 1, 2015
4.5/5
There was something really lovely, poetic and comforting about this book, peeps. Almost like going into Cambio Springs series rather than Elemental World.
Perhaps it's because The Scarlet Deep is a book about love lost and found again years later.
Anne and Murphy used to be a mated pair madly in love a hundred years ago until Murphy asked Anne to do something against her principles to help him solidify his power. The couple split, and a century later Murphy rules Dublin, and Anne has a quiet practice in Galloway, where she consults her various vampire clients with different psychological problems. Both can't forget each other no matter how much and how hard they try.
Murphy is in the midst of fighting to keep his territory free from the Elixir and at some point he decides that he needs to stop lying to himself and try to win Anne back. The problem is that together they are explosive, and he very often puts his foot in his mouth instead of saying something nice and profound to the woman he loves. *grinning* In a way these two reminded me of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman in Far and Away. They were fiery!
So, the man has a cunning plan to make Anne stick with him for a few days, and hopefully she will see what she is missing and how much he still loves her. Unfortunately the couple lands in a pool of deadly intrigues when the war between Elixir makers and those who try to stop them evolves to a whole new level, but hey! Nothing like a little bit of danger, treachery and murder to spice things up, right?
The Scarlet Deep is sexy, earthy and beautiful. Anne and Murphy are compelling together, and you really want them to reunite. While we don't see Gio and Beatrice, there is plenty of Brigid and Carwyn, and we also meet an intriguing Russian, Oleg, whom I hope to see again very soon *wink*
Overall, it's an intense read, a delicious new installment in Elemental World series. Recommended.
There was something really lovely, poetic and comforting about this book, peeps. Almost like going into Cambio Springs series rather than Elemental World.
Perhaps it's because The Scarlet Deep is a book about love lost and found again years later.
Anne and Murphy used to be a mated pair madly in love a hundred years ago until Murphy asked Anne to do something against her principles to help him solidify his power. The couple split, and a century later Murphy rules Dublin, and Anne has a quiet practice in Galloway, where she consults her various vampire clients with different psychological problems. Both can't forget each other no matter how much and how hard they try.
Murphy is in the midst of fighting to keep his territory free from the Elixir and at some point he decides that he needs to stop lying to himself and try to win Anne back. The problem is that together they are explosive, and he very often puts his foot in his mouth instead of saying something nice and profound to the woman he loves. *grinning* In a way these two reminded me of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman in Far and Away. They were fiery!
So, the man has a cunning plan to make Anne stick with him for a few days, and hopefully she will see what she is missing and how much he still loves her. Unfortunately the couple lands in a pool of deadly intrigues when the war between Elixir makers and those who try to stop them evolves to a whole new level, but hey! Nothing like a little bit of danger, treachery and murder to spice things up, right?
The Scarlet Deep is sexy, earthy and beautiful. Anne and Murphy are compelling together, and you really want them to reunite. While we don't see Gio and Beatrice, there is plenty of Brigid and Carwyn, and we also meet an intriguing Russian, Oleg, whom I hope to see again very soon *wink*
Overall, it's an intense read, a delicious new installment in Elemental World series. Recommended.
April 25, 2020
Oooooohhohohooooooo I hate you so much Patrick. To be fair, going into this I knew I would because of how he is portrayed in the previous books, so I was slowly preparing myself for this book, and my opinion of Patrick only got worse, so rant upcoming.
In the previous books, all we have seen of Patrick is him flirting, or talking about his lovers, and most of the time, trying to get with the heroine of book one to form a "Union", a marriage, between their lands. So how am I supposed to believe that all this time that he is "in love" with the heroine, he would so willingly marry someone for power? And that's not even the worst of it.
Anne and Patrick here, were mated for THIRTY YEARS. In those thirty years they were devoted and fully mates. On the 29th year, Anne divulged her deepest secret to Patrick, which is that she can manipulate people basically, and keep in mind that she has never told anyone but her father and sister because she is afraid of being used. Well, her so-called mate promised to never use her, but what do you know, he tries to only a year later. He was pressuring her to manipulate for political gains for himself. Well the heroine felt betrayed and left him, though only a few hours away.
This is when they are then separated for a 100 years. During that time, Patrick has screwed every women in sight, and multiples of them most of the time, and he did this pretty quick after the separation too. So instead of GROVELING to his mate of THIRTY YEARS, he goes off and fcks every women in the country apparently, gains more political power, spies on the heroine every once in awhile, and then let's not forget about that little marriage for a union stint. Also, in that time, he brought 3 women he was screwing to a place where the heroine was hosting a dinner party to purposely throw them in her face in front of everyone because he was mad she left him, and this is I think 30 or 70 years after their separation.
On screen we have to see him talking about wanting to fck multiple women, which he does, but luckily the sex isn't on screen. So literally right after, like days, he wants the heroine back and manipulates the situation so she would have to see him. Well the heroine being the pretty much celibate idiot she is, completely forgives him for the OW that he had flaunted in her face for so many years, in fact, she says if anything it's her own fault for leaving him, and that its childish that she would even want an apology for him doing that. Which she would never gets because the zero-hero DOESN'T REGRET ANYTHING. He even kind of mocks her for her thinking she should get an apology from him, saying she shouldn't expect him to stay loyal pretty much when she left him because he tried to USE her. He finally apologizes for trying to use her eventually, but even that she had to get out of him and he wasn't going to bother in the first place, and he only apologized a 100 years later.
Look at how much he missed her,
"He finally pulled away. “Was wondering how long it would take you to bring up the other women.”
“I’m not harping.” Her face felt like a mask lay over it. “I’m not blaming you. I’m simply stating a fact.”
“Then I want to state a fact.”
“Fine.”
He scooted away from her, leaning his back against the end of the wood-paneled trailer. “We’re not friends.”
“No, we’re not friends.”
“And we never will be.”
Her heart broke open a little more, and she pulled the sheet to cover herself. “I know that.”
“What do you want from me? An apology? You want me to grovel for not turning into a monk because you left me?”
“No, I don’t expect an apology.”Of course she wanted him to grovel, though she’d never admit it. She knew it wasn’t fair to him. She’d tried to move on as well. She squashed the petty, jealous part of her heart and remained calm."
He's great right? Barf
Did you intend to apologize?”A muscle in his jaw jumped. “Yes.” Yes. A single word. A single answer that could have changed everything. Anne forced herself to remain calm.
“But you didn’t, Patrick. You threw all your conquests in my face and told me it was my fault that you’d fucked them. That you hated me.”
“I didn’t…” He cleared his throat. “I didn’t hate you.”
“You said you did.”
BARF🤢
I think one of my most hated things in this story though, is that somehow the heroine is the one who keeps apologizing for leaving him or "not giving him her all" when they were together, um what?? Obviously there was a very valid reason because he DID try to use you! The heroine probably apologized to the hero 4 or 5 times, while guess how many times the hero did? A half-hearted ONE, which is pretty disgusting! I hated the hero soooooo much, and honestly just embarrassed for the heroine, especially because how embarrassing it is to have your mate F everyone around AFTER you were mated, and EVERYONE know about it? And besides that, so the heroine who falls into bed with him pretty quick, has to be around his employee that he had a fling with, women that he's gotten with, or tried to, or the probably thousands of women just in that city. And the nonstop TALK from people talking about his manwhore ways and all the women he has slept with, it was so embarrassing whenever people brought it up, which was A LOT.
Exhibit 3 of why I hate Patrick and the heroine is weak
“You know who I am and what I do. And I will remind you that I was not the one who wanted to attend this summit, Patrick. It was you who dragged me along. My sister who forced me to come. This wasn’t my idea.”
“You didn’t put up much of a fight either, did you? You wanted to come,” he said. “Your little life in the west was driving you mad, and you jumped at the chance to do something other than listen to sob stories from vampires with more money than sense.”
Anne felt as if he’d slapped her. “Póg mo thóin.”
“Already did, love. And you liked it.”
She saw his eye twitch as soon as the words left his mouth
(Keep in mind she is a Psychologist, and the hero basically mocks her for it and says her life is worthless just because she has patient confidentiality and won't give up her client's info and can we guess who is the one to apologize after? Yup, her)
And what's worse, is even though HE is the one "trying" to get her back, he tells her that in order for them to be together she has to give up her job and home, because she is a psychologist and her clients won't want to come to her since she is with as big of a political leader as him, which hint* hint* she pretty much does. And not only that, he made it VERY clear, that he would NEVER himself give up his own job for her! How great of a hero is he, eh?
Now besides all of that, Patrick was decent at some times. He honestly could have been a great character with his funny, cocky, con manish personality IF he had stayed loyal to Anne, but since he wasn't, those traits of his just made me hate him more. And then how everybody kept telling her she should have fought for their relationship and that everyone fights? Um wtf? Don't try to tell her she was in the wrong when they don't even know the full story, and your fights are hardly comparable Gina. Also, it's kind of hard to trust the guy when he was like this after 30 years of being together, who's to say how much fighting would be needed before he cheats on her again?
Lastly, the story was bland, and I'm definitely sick of the elixir storyline so I ended up just skimming most of those scenes. The only reason this book has two stars instead of one is because although I hate this book and the MCs, I still love Elizabeth's writing, and there were some cute moments between the side characters.
Overall, as you can tell, I hated this book. BUT I am giving it a pass because out of all the Elizabeth Hunter books I have read, which is most of them, this is only the second hero and book I hated, and her other books really do have amazing heros and heroines. She also still has amazing writing and is one of my fave PNR authors, so I'm just going to erase this story from my mind hopefully and move on.
In the previous books, all we have seen of Patrick is him flirting, or talking about his lovers, and most of the time, trying to get with the heroine of book one to form a "Union", a marriage, between their lands. So how am I supposed to believe that all this time that he is "in love" with the heroine, he would so willingly marry someone for power? And that's not even the worst of it.
Anne and Patrick here, were mated for THIRTY YEARS. In those thirty years they were devoted and fully mates. On the 29th year, Anne divulged her deepest secret to Patrick, which is that she can manipulate people basically, and keep in mind that she has never told anyone but her father and sister because she is afraid of being used. Well, her so-called mate promised to never use her, but what do you know, he tries to only a year later. He was pressuring her to manipulate for political gains for himself. Well the heroine felt betrayed and left him, though only a few hours away.
This is when they are then separated for a 100 years. During that time, Patrick has screwed every women in sight, and multiples of them most of the time, and he did this pretty quick after the separation too. So instead of GROVELING to his mate of THIRTY YEARS, he goes off and fcks every women in the country apparently, gains more political power, spies on the heroine every once in awhile, and then let's not forget about that little marriage for a union stint. Also, in that time, he brought 3 women he was screwing to a place where the heroine was hosting a dinner party to purposely throw them in her face in front of everyone because he was mad she left him, and this is I think 30 or 70 years after their separation.
On screen we have to see him talking about wanting to fck multiple women, which he does, but luckily the sex isn't on screen. So literally right after, like days, he wants the heroine back and manipulates the situation so she would have to see him. Well the heroine being the pretty much celibate idiot she is, completely forgives him for the OW that he had flaunted in her face for so many years, in fact, she says if anything it's her own fault for leaving him, and that its childish that she would even want an apology for him doing that. Which she would never gets because the zero-hero DOESN'T REGRET ANYTHING. He even kind of mocks her for her thinking she should get an apology from him, saying she shouldn't expect him to stay loyal pretty much when she left him because he tried to USE her. He finally apologizes for trying to use her eventually, but even that she had to get out of him and he wasn't going to bother in the first place, and he only apologized a 100 years later.
Look at how much he missed her,
"He finally pulled away. “Was wondering how long it would take you to bring up the other women.”
“I’m not harping.” Her face felt like a mask lay over it. “I’m not blaming you. I’m simply stating a fact.”
“Then I want to state a fact.”
“Fine.”
He scooted away from her, leaning his back against the end of the wood-paneled trailer. “We’re not friends.”
“No, we’re not friends.”
“And we never will be.”
Her heart broke open a little more, and she pulled the sheet to cover herself. “I know that.”
“What do you want from me? An apology? You want me to grovel for not turning into a monk because you left me?”
“No, I don’t expect an apology.”Of course she wanted him to grovel, though she’d never admit it. She knew it wasn’t fair to him. She’d tried to move on as well. She squashed the petty, jealous part of her heart and remained calm."
He's great right? Barf
Did you intend to apologize?”A muscle in his jaw jumped. “Yes.” Yes. A single word. A single answer that could have changed everything. Anne forced herself to remain calm.
“But you didn’t, Patrick. You threw all your conquests in my face and told me it was my fault that you’d fucked them. That you hated me.”
“I didn’t…” He cleared his throat. “I didn’t hate you.”
“You said you did.”
BARF🤢
I think one of my most hated things in this story though, is that somehow the heroine is the one who keeps apologizing for leaving him or "not giving him her all" when they were together, um what?? Obviously there was a very valid reason because he DID try to use you! The heroine probably apologized to the hero 4 or 5 times, while guess how many times the hero did? A half-hearted ONE, which is pretty disgusting! I hated the hero soooooo much, and honestly just embarrassed for the heroine, especially because how embarrassing it is to have your mate F everyone around AFTER you were mated, and EVERYONE know about it? And besides that, so the heroine who falls into bed with him pretty quick, has to be around his employee that he had a fling with, women that he's gotten with, or tried to, or the probably thousands of women just in that city. And the nonstop TALK from people talking about his manwhore ways and all the women he has slept with, it was so embarrassing whenever people brought it up, which was A LOT.
Exhibit 3 of why I hate Patrick and the heroine is weak
“You know who I am and what I do. And I will remind you that I was not the one who wanted to attend this summit, Patrick. It was you who dragged me along. My sister who forced me to come. This wasn’t my idea.”
“You didn’t put up much of a fight either, did you? You wanted to come,” he said. “Your little life in the west was driving you mad, and you jumped at the chance to do something other than listen to sob stories from vampires with more money than sense.”
Anne felt as if he’d slapped her. “Póg mo thóin.”
“Already did, love. And you liked it.”
She saw his eye twitch as soon as the words left his mouth
(Keep in mind she is a Psychologist, and the hero basically mocks her for it and says her life is worthless just because she has patient confidentiality and won't give up her client's info and can we guess who is the one to apologize after? Yup, her)
And what's worse, is even though HE is the one "trying" to get her back, he tells her that in order for them to be together she has to give up her job and home, because she is a psychologist and her clients won't want to come to her since she is with as big of a political leader as him, which hint* hint* she pretty much does. And not only that, he made it VERY clear, that he would NEVER himself give up his own job for her! How great of a hero is he, eh?
Now besides all of that, Patrick was decent at some times. He honestly could have been a great character with his funny, cocky, con manish personality IF he had stayed loyal to Anne, but since he wasn't, those traits of his just made me hate him more. And then how everybody kept telling her she should have fought for their relationship and that everyone fights? Um wtf? Don't try to tell her she was in the wrong when they don't even know the full story, and your fights are hardly comparable Gina. Also, it's kind of hard to trust the guy when he was like this after 30 years of being together, who's to say how much fighting would be needed before he cheats on her again?
Lastly, the story was bland, and I'm definitely sick of the elixir storyline so I ended up just skimming most of those scenes. The only reason this book has two stars instead of one is because although I hate this book and the MCs, I still love Elizabeth's writing, and there were some cute moments between the side characters.
Overall, as you can tell, I hated this book. BUT I am giving it a pass because out of all the Elizabeth Hunter books I have read, which is most of them, this is only the second hero and book I hated, and her other books really do have amazing heros and heroines. She also still has amazing writing and is one of my fave PNR authors, so I'm just going to erase this story from my mind hopefully and move on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2017
4.25 stars
Elizabeth Hunter rocks!!!
Elizabeth Hunter rocks!!!
October 16, 2015
"The Scarlet Deep" by Elizabeth Hunter is a beautiful, emotional tale of forgiveness, betrayal and love - all wrapped into paranormal awesomeness.
Whenever I want a good paranormal read, I turn to Elizabeth Hunter's books, knowing that they will wow me with their creativity, originality and breathtaking storytelling.
It's no different with "The Scarlet Deep". Elizabeth Hunter created a passionate, poetic story filled with beauty and sensuality. The story is not just suspenseful and captivating, but erotic in an understated way. It's very classy, sophisticated, yet extremely sexy.
Part of the Elemental World series, "The Scarlet Deep" carries us off into the world of vampires. Sexy, smart, at times dangerous vampires, who deal with very human problems: Love, lies, a broken heart, disappointment and all the other fun stuff that feelings bring along.
Anne and Murphy are a prime example. Two vampires, who used to be madly in love until they were just mad - at each other as well as themselves.
But despite hurt feelings and betrayal, they haven't forgotten each other or stopped longing to be with one another - even after decades apart.
Now that they have to work together to stop a threat - both to human and vampire lives - they are forced to confront their own mistakes and to set their priorities straight. With both of them being passionate and bullheaded, things don't always go smoothly. But sometimes the things that require the most work, are the ones that are truly worth it.
The story but also the characters have blown me away.
Ann is an amazing female lead. She's strong, confident and classy. Despite a tragic life as a human and a challenging one as a vampire, she's not bitter or mean. Instead, she's caring, thoughtful and sweet, although a bit reserved and careful. But that comes with the secret she's been hiding from most of the world, except a select few. What made her even more awesome for me was that she had weak moments. Moments in which she was vulnerable, made mistakes and failed. Yet, she didn't let those moments define her. She owned her mistakes, learned and moved on - becoming stronger and wiser. Her strength also didn't stop her from being feminine and sensual. It all blended together into an extremely likeable character. It's no surprise she had Murphy wrapped around her little finger.
And Murphy is not an easy man to win over. He's calculated, goal-oriented and ambitious. No one can fool him or best him in his business ventures. He's a strict leader to his employees, but at the same time he's also caring, ready to give his last to ensure their safety and well-being. But he's also a man full of passion and love for the life he's living and for one woman - Ann. I love how he was the perfect mix of possessive, protective and manly man. But he also had no issues admitting his mistakes and apologizing or showing his emotions. It made him irresistible and not just to Ann.
The chemistry between Murphy and Ann was off the charts, as was the sexual tension. The story had turns and twists that made it really suspenseful. I loved every single moment of this read.
What made it even better was some old friends showing up. And yes, I do mean Carwyn. This vampire makes my heart go to mush.
If you love paranormal romances, this book is a must.
5+ perfect-paranormal-awesomeness stars.
Whenever I want a good paranormal read, I turn to Elizabeth Hunter's books, knowing that they will wow me with their creativity, originality and breathtaking storytelling.
It's no different with "The Scarlet Deep". Elizabeth Hunter created a passionate, poetic story filled with beauty and sensuality. The story is not just suspenseful and captivating, but erotic in an understated way. It's very classy, sophisticated, yet extremely sexy.
Part of the Elemental World series, "The Scarlet Deep" carries us off into the world of vampires. Sexy, smart, at times dangerous vampires, who deal with very human problems: Love, lies, a broken heart, disappointment and all the other fun stuff that feelings bring along.
Anne and Murphy are a prime example. Two vampires, who used to be madly in love until they were just mad - at each other as well as themselves.
But despite hurt feelings and betrayal, they haven't forgotten each other or stopped longing to be with one another - even after decades apart.
Now that they have to work together to stop a threat - both to human and vampire lives - they are forced to confront their own mistakes and to set their priorities straight. With both of them being passionate and bullheaded, things don't always go smoothly. But sometimes the things that require the most work, are the ones that are truly worth it.
The story but also the characters have blown me away.
Ann is an amazing female lead. She's strong, confident and classy. Despite a tragic life as a human and a challenging one as a vampire, she's not bitter or mean. Instead, she's caring, thoughtful and sweet, although a bit reserved and careful. But that comes with the secret she's been hiding from most of the world, except a select few. What made her even more awesome for me was that she had weak moments. Moments in which she was vulnerable, made mistakes and failed. Yet, she didn't let those moments define her. She owned her mistakes, learned and moved on - becoming stronger and wiser. Her strength also didn't stop her from being feminine and sensual. It all blended together into an extremely likeable character. It's no surprise she had Murphy wrapped around her little finger.
And Murphy is not an easy man to win over. He's calculated, goal-oriented and ambitious. No one can fool him or best him in his business ventures. He's a strict leader to his employees, but at the same time he's also caring, ready to give his last to ensure their safety and well-being. But he's also a man full of passion and love for the life he's living and for one woman - Ann. I love how he was the perfect mix of possessive, protective and manly man. But he also had no issues admitting his mistakes and apologizing or showing his emotions. It made him irresistible and not just to Ann.
The chemistry between Murphy and Ann was off the charts, as was the sexual tension. The story had turns and twists that made it really suspenseful. I loved every single moment of this read.
What made it even better was some old friends showing up. And yes, I do mean Carwyn. This vampire makes my heart go to mush.
If you love paranormal romances, this book is a must.
5+ perfect-paranormal-awesomeness stars.
April 5, 2020
WHAT A FUCKING JOKE! THIS IS BEYOND THE RIDICULOUS! PLEASE, JUST STOP WITH THIS SHIT!
June 30, 2015
I'm the first one to admit that it is very hard for me to love any of Elizabeth's work more than her Elemental Mysteries series. I'm not a big fan of spin off books, especially when I adore the original series. However, THIS BOOK made me remember why I love the Elemental world so much and why it is an absolute must that Elizabeth continue to write stories about these charismatic, addicting characters as she continues the Elemental World series.
Patrick Murphy was never a bleep on my radar. He has been mentioned in previous books set in the Elemental world, but I never gave him a second thought. So when I heard this was his book, I'll admit I was not as enthused as I normally am about Elizabeth's new books. However, from the moment I started reading Chapter One, it was evident that he was a force to be reckoned with and it made me ask "Murphy, where have you been and why haven't I noticed you before?" To me, this is a sign of a skilled author who is able to really to get inside the heads of her characters and enable the reader to not only understand them, but relate to them as well.
THE SCARLET DEEP was like a big game of Clue, but with vampires. The suspense level was extremely high, and although the romance was definitely prevalent, I found myself becoming completely engrossed in the suspense plot. Well written, completely addicting, I could not put this book down and am sad that Murphy and Anna's story is over. Fans of the Elemental Mysteries and Elemental World will absolutely adore it for Elizabeth has once again written pure gold.
Patrick Murphy was never a bleep on my radar. He has been mentioned in previous books set in the Elemental world, but I never gave him a second thought. So when I heard this was his book, I'll admit I was not as enthused as I normally am about Elizabeth's new books. However, from the moment I started reading Chapter One, it was evident that he was a force to be reckoned with and it made me ask "Murphy, where have you been and why haven't I noticed you before?" To me, this is a sign of a skilled author who is able to really to get inside the heads of her characters and enable the reader to not only understand them, but relate to them as well.
THE SCARLET DEEP was like a big game of Clue, but with vampires. The suspense level was extremely high, and although the romance was definitely prevalent, I found myself becoming completely engrossed in the suspense plot. Well written, completely addicting, I could not put this book down and am sad that Murphy and Anna's story is over. Fans of the Elemental Mysteries and Elemental World will absolutely adore it for Elizabeth has once again written pure gold.
December 31, 2015
It's been a while since the last Elemental world book - not that I am complaining since I also like Hunter's Cambio Springs and Irin chronicles - but with the gap it took me a bit to come back up to speed on the Dublin cast. Once I did, I was happy to see Patrick reconnecting with his estranged mate Annie, who at first seem like an opposites attract combination of Brawn and Brains with the former boxer Patrick and vampire psychologist Annie.
I really liked the passionate and protective Patrick and I did like Annie too - I like her relationships with the rest of the cast a great deal. Since this is a reconciliation story the romance is low-key - but not without steam. But Patrick is more than the charming rogue that he seems and he is the one to put the pieces together in the continuing mystery of the deadly vampire Elixer. I liked how his mind worked to figure out who has been behind the conspiracy.
Rounding out the story is the cast from the previous books, Bridget and Carwyn have parts to play - no Ben and Tensin though - and there is a lovely little cameo for Baojia and Natalie.
So another nice little mystery that looks to have the Elixer storyline on the verge on wrapping up. Can't wait for the next episode.
ARC courtesy of the author, release date 7/7/15.
I really liked the passionate and protective Patrick and I did like Annie too - I like her relationships with the rest of the cast a great deal. Since this is a reconciliation story the romance is low-key - but not without steam. But Patrick is more than the charming rogue that he seems and he is the one to put the pieces together in the continuing mystery of the deadly vampire Elixer. I liked how his mind worked to figure out who has been behind the conspiracy.
Rounding out the story is the cast from the previous books, Bridget and Carwyn have parts to play - no Ben and Tensin though - and there is a lovely little cameo for Baojia and Natalie.
So another nice little mystery that looks to have the Elixer storyline on the verge on wrapping up. Can't wait for the next episode.
ARC courtesy of the author, release date 7/7/15.
August 24, 2022
I loved Patrick and Anne's story. They are so good for each other and I'm glad they found their way back together. And it's great seeing so many of the characters I've grown to love through this series.
July 13, 2015
Grade: B+
October 8, 2015
So at the moment I am currently on holiday which means I become lazy and I mean couch potato lazy. So I actually wanted to write this review about two weeks ago. But late than never, right?
Personally Ms. Hunter is one of my favourite authors and she is my go to if I’m in a rut. This book was no different for me. Once again Ms. Hunter made me a happy bunny and that is not an easy feat.
Admittedly I don’t do the whole love lost and found crap because let’s face most of the time the author can’t pull it off.
From what I have read the reviews are mainly positive here. I think I found two negative ones each to their own but peeps you have to remember that they are immortal that means they have more time and opportunity to fuck up compared to us lowly human beings.
“Life is one long series of making mistakes and seeking grace.”
Patience, I’m now getting to my review.
Anne O’Dea and Patrick Murphy are life mates but they had a misunderstanding. Well, Anne entrusted Murphy with her secret and he asked her to use it in a negative way. So they split up or they took a break. Each dealt it in their own way. Anne became a recluse and moved to Galway and Murphy unfortunately fucked himself through Dublin.
There is pride but there is also false pride. Both Anne and Murphy could have saved themselves so bother but as vampires you have long to live which makes it easier to ignore.
They are both flawed which makes them perfect for me. Anne isn’t a model which is real and complex and she is suffering from not being able to feed too much because of Elixir. Due to Murphy’s debonair ways which stop as soon as Anne comes back to Dublin.
Murphy is a former gypsy/pikey he has always wanted better and he always wanted better for Anne. HE is a cad, he consumes he fights and well what you see is what you get.
The distribution of Elixir is getting worse. It is all over Europe. Terry Ramsey has called a conference. Northern Island can’t make it so Mary asks her sister Anne to step in which Murphy is delighted about.
“I HATE you,” she told her sister over the speaker phone in her secure wing of Brigid and Carwyn’s house. “No, you don’t.” “I do.” “What did Murphy do?” “Nothing.” Except kiss me in Galway and remind me that I miss him like a lost limb. Stare at me during the opera as if he’d eat me alive in the most pleasurable way possible. Show off his intellect, which has always been the most attractive thing about him. “Patrick Murphy has been a complete gentleman,” she said. “Unerringly polite and respectful. Painfully welcoming.” Anne heard Mary suck on her cigarette and release a breath. “Hateful man. That would irritate the piss out of me.”
After arriving in London and might add with Carwyn and Brigid which was so much fun
“Viking vampire assassins,” Murphy said, barely stifling a sneer. “Sounds like the subject of a bad romance novel.”
“I disagree,” Carwyn said. “That sounds like a rather excellent romance novel. You realize that when they raided Ireland many of the women ran after them, don’t you? I think it’s something about the hair.”
“Shut up, Carwyn.”
“I am the one with the adoring mate. Just pointing that out.”
“Adoring?” Murphy glanced at his fierce young enforcer. “Oh yes, the fawning must be quite tiresome. I don’t know how you put up with it.”
“It’s difficult, but I manage.”
Colour me surprised when I found out who Anne’s sire is Tywyell. Oh and who had the nerve to cross for pride and money. Anne’s hunger nearly destroys her. She has to decide where to draw the line with her patients and her love life.
The chemistry between Anne and Murphy was palpable as well as the words that they have for one another.
“Murphy had never stopped wanting her. That would be akin to no longer wanting blood or water. He’d just learned to manage without her.”
“I tried to forget you, Anne. Not because I didn’t love you, but because I loved you so damn much. It didn’t matter. None of it mattered.”
The banter ain't that bad either.
“What do a condom and a coffin have in common?” “I’m shocked that I don’t know. What do a condom and a coffin have in common?” “They both hold stiffs.” But one is coming and one is going.”
I was interested how Ms. Hunter was going to change the story and all the participants that are involved.
Murphy can be a romantic sod.
“I adore you.
I love you.
You are mine.
You have always been mine.”
Personally Ms. Hunter is one of my favourite authors and she is my go to if I’m in a rut. This book was no different for me. Once again Ms. Hunter made me a happy bunny and that is not an easy feat.
Admittedly I don’t do the whole love lost and found crap because let’s face most of the time the author can’t pull it off.
From what I have read the reviews are mainly positive here. I think I found two negative ones each to their own but peeps you have to remember that they are immortal that means they have more time and opportunity to fuck up compared to us lowly human beings.
“Life is one long series of making mistakes and seeking grace.”
Patience, I’m now getting to my review.
Anne O’Dea and Patrick Murphy are life mates but they had a misunderstanding. Well, Anne entrusted Murphy with her secret and he asked her to use it in a negative way. So they split up or they took a break. Each dealt it in their own way. Anne became a recluse and moved to Galway and Murphy unfortunately fucked himself through Dublin.
There is pride but there is also false pride. Both Anne and Murphy could have saved themselves so bother but as vampires you have long to live which makes it easier to ignore.
They are both flawed which makes them perfect for me. Anne isn’t a model which is real and complex and she is suffering from not being able to feed too much because of Elixir. Due to Murphy’s debonair ways which stop as soon as Anne comes back to Dublin.
Murphy is a former gypsy/pikey he has always wanted better and he always wanted better for Anne. HE is a cad, he consumes he fights and well what you see is what you get.
The distribution of Elixir is getting worse. It is all over Europe. Terry Ramsey has called a conference. Northern Island can’t make it so Mary asks her sister Anne to step in which Murphy is delighted about.
“I HATE you,” she told her sister over the speaker phone in her secure wing of Brigid and Carwyn’s house. “No, you don’t.” “I do.” “What did Murphy do?” “Nothing.” Except kiss me in Galway and remind me that I miss him like a lost limb. Stare at me during the opera as if he’d eat me alive in the most pleasurable way possible. Show off his intellect, which has always been the most attractive thing about him. “Patrick Murphy has been a complete gentleman,” she said. “Unerringly polite and respectful. Painfully welcoming.” Anne heard Mary suck on her cigarette and release a breath. “Hateful man. That would irritate the piss out of me.”
After arriving in London and might add with Carwyn and Brigid which was so much fun
“Viking vampire assassins,” Murphy said, barely stifling a sneer. “Sounds like the subject of a bad romance novel.”
“I disagree,” Carwyn said. “That sounds like a rather excellent romance novel. You realize that when they raided Ireland many of the women ran after them, don’t you? I think it’s something about the hair.”
“Shut up, Carwyn.”
“I am the one with the adoring mate. Just pointing that out.”
“Adoring?” Murphy glanced at his fierce young enforcer. “Oh yes, the fawning must be quite tiresome. I don’t know how you put up with it.”
“It’s difficult, but I manage.”
Colour me surprised when I found out who Anne’s sire is Tywyell. Oh and who had the nerve to cross for pride and money. Anne’s hunger nearly destroys her. She has to decide where to draw the line with her patients and her love life.
The chemistry between Anne and Murphy was palpable as well as the words that they have for one another.
“Murphy had never stopped wanting her. That would be akin to no longer wanting blood or water. He’d just learned to manage without her.”
“I tried to forget you, Anne. Not because I didn’t love you, but because I loved you so damn much. It didn’t matter. None of it mattered.”
The banter ain't that bad either.
“What do a condom and a coffin have in common?” “I’m shocked that I don’t know. What do a condom and a coffin have in common?” “They both hold stiffs.” But one is coming and one is going.”
I was interested how Ms. Hunter was going to change the story and all the participants that are involved.
Murphy can be a romantic sod.
“I adore you.
I love you.
You are mine.
You have always been mine.”
July 14, 2015
Loved it!
I'm convinced that Ms. Hunter cannot disappoint me and I cannot get enough of her Elemental series books. As it happens, I tried to savor this book as much as possible but at the same time, I couldn't wait to discover what will happen next. Anne and Murphy were great together and I was rooting for them to find their way from the beginning. There were plenty of passion and love between these too, but regaining someone's trust is not an easy task! Throw in an escalating Elixir problem causing havoc across Europe and the Americas, a fairly large gathering of vampire leaders - and things start escalating fairly quick. Mysteries, suspense, and love is always a good mix in my book and this novel had a perfect balance of each.
I can't wait to read more.
Highly recommended along with all the other Elemental Mysteries/World/Legacy novels and novellas. ;)
p.s. and Carwyn *dreamy smile* <3 adore
I'm convinced that Ms. Hunter cannot disappoint me and I cannot get enough of her Elemental series books. As it happens, I tried to savor this book as much as possible but at the same time, I couldn't wait to discover what will happen next. Anne and Murphy were great together and I was rooting for them to find their way from the beginning. There were plenty of passion and love between these too, but regaining someone's trust is not an easy task! Throw in an escalating Elixir problem causing havoc across Europe and the Americas, a fairly large gathering of vampire leaders - and things start escalating fairly quick. Mysteries, suspense, and love is always a good mix in my book and this novel had a perfect balance of each.
I can't wait to read more.
Highly recommended along with all the other Elemental Mysteries/World/Legacy novels and novellas. ;)
p.s. and Carwyn *dreamy smile* <3 adore
July 28, 2015
Elizabeth Hunter writes fascinating people doing extraordinary things.
She’s always done it – throughout the entire Elemental world, her characters have intriguing depths and the kind of layers that make thousand-year-old water vampires feel like real people, and battles of political intrigue against a global epidemic seem vital and urgent.
And now she’s done it again in The Scarlet Deep.
Anne and Murphy are fascinating people doing extraordinary things, and the time I spent with them in their story was consuming and addicting and the very best way to spend a rainy summer day. Thank you, Elizabeth, for creating such interesting characters and breathing them into life with your wonderful words.
You make reading so much fun!
She’s always done it – throughout the entire Elemental world, her characters have intriguing depths and the kind of layers that make thousand-year-old water vampires feel like real people, and battles of political intrigue against a global epidemic seem vital and urgent.
And now she’s done it again in The Scarlet Deep.
Anne and Murphy are fascinating people doing extraordinary things, and the time I spent with them in their story was consuming and addicting and the very best way to spend a rainy summer day. Thank you, Elizabeth, for creating such interesting characters and breathing them into life with your wonderful words.
You make reading so much fun!
July 20, 2015
I love Elizabeth Hunter! This book is yet another great book in her Elemental world books and I just adored it. It was so cool getting to know Murphy and Anne better. The romance was great.
July 7, 2015
This book. I don't think it's any secret that I love Hunter's books, and The Scarlet Deep is definitely no exception. I felt such a connection with this book, though, and I have to say that it is now among my favorites. There is mystery, and danger, and intrigue. There is, as always, the fascinating hierarchy and relationships between the vampires of her Elemental world. The ever-present danger of Elixir hangs over their existence, and there is a sense of urgency to this story that really kept me turning the pages. So you have all of that...
...And then you have the long, complicated, all-encompassing love between Anne and Murphy. I can't even express how much I loved this story, specifically because Anne and Murphy have a history together. There is something about old loves finding one another again that just gets me every time, and Hunter did an amazing job showing both the joy and the turmoil in their reunion. Anne is quite possibly my favorite heroine of Hunter's (other than Tenzin -- Tenzin will always be my favorite) and while Murphy is swoon-worthy, you also get to see another side of his personality. The smooth, calm veneer is pulled back, and you can see why Anne and Murphy fell apart so long ago. There was so much awesome character development for both of them, and it was a pleasure to read.
This is a must-read: page-turning mystery, heart-wrenching love story, and love scenes that will leave you feeling as if you could use a splash of the cool water Anne and Murphy are so drawn to.
...And then you have the long, complicated, all-encompassing love between Anne and Murphy. I can't even express how much I loved this story, specifically because Anne and Murphy have a history together. There is something about old loves finding one another again that just gets me every time, and Hunter did an amazing job showing both the joy and the turmoil in their reunion. Anne is quite possibly my favorite heroine of Hunter's (other than Tenzin -- Tenzin will always be my favorite) and while Murphy is swoon-worthy, you also get to see another side of his personality. The smooth, calm veneer is pulled back, and you can see why Anne and Murphy fell apart so long ago. There was so much awesome character development for both of them, and it was a pleasure to read.
This is a must-read: page-turning mystery, heart-wrenching love story, and love scenes that will leave you feeling as if you could use a splash of the cool water Anne and Murphy are so drawn to.
April 8, 2018
Amazing
Sometimes, a writer just blows my mind with their ability to dive into the psyche of their characters. They build such a rich and detailed world, then toss in these complex people doing amazing things and a new favorite author is found. I auto-buy all of their books and devour every scrap I can find.
Elizabeth Hunter has entered that realm.
This book was soooo good! This series was incredible and I’m so happy to have another book set in this world waiting on my kindle to read!
Murphy and Anne were magnificent, and I even got a glimpse at Boajia and Natalie!! I hoped for that!! I appreciate the way we get to revisit some of our favorite characters outside of their own stories, getting a look at their hea!!
Sometimes, a writer just blows my mind with their ability to dive into the psyche of their characters. They build such a rich and detailed world, then toss in these complex people doing amazing things and a new favorite author is found. I auto-buy all of their books and devour every scrap I can find.
Elizabeth Hunter has entered that realm.
This book was soooo good! This series was incredible and I’m so happy to have another book set in this world waiting on my kindle to read!
Murphy and Anne were magnificent, and I even got a glimpse at Boajia and Natalie!! I hoped for that!! I appreciate the way we get to revisit some of our favorite characters outside of their own stories, getting a look at their hea!!
March 10, 2017
Murphy. Murphy. Murphy. Sexy. Sexy. Sexy. We met Murphy, the Irish "James Bond" vampire, in the Elemental Mysteries and got to know him a little more in in Building From Ashes. In this book we get to see his past and his greatest regret. Anne, who we adore from Building From Ashes, has some secrets and some regrets as well. It was surprising and fun seeing Anne and Murphy together.
The only thing that bothered me about this book was the politics. Other than that, another great read by Hunter in her Elemental World series.
The only thing that bothered me about this book was the politics. Other than that, another great read by Hunter in her Elemental World series.
June 4, 2017
Now this is quality PNR. Great setting, wonderful wordbuilding, and gritty, deadly vampire politics. Oh, and a nice second chance at love story. This is not fluffy PNR with a vapid love story; Hunter's vampire world is rich,deep, and satisfying.
Great to be back in the 'Elemental World'. Oh, and if I were Anne, I would have made Patrick suffer a great deal more before I forgave him.
Great to be back in the 'Elemental World'. Oh, and if I were Anne, I would have made Patrick suffer a great deal more before I forgave him.
September 24, 2015
Classic Elizabeth Hunter
Once again, Ms. Hunter made my day. As a always the story line is intriguing, fast moving with just the right amount of detail. I so much appreciate the knowledge that I can read her books without explicit sex and or language. When you write a great story, all that is not necessary. Kudos Ms. Hunter, another winner.
Once again, Ms. Hunter made my day. As a always the story line is intriguing, fast moving with just the right amount of detail. I so much appreciate the knowledge that I can read her books without explicit sex and or language. When you write a great story, all that is not necessary. Kudos Ms. Hunter, another winner.
March 17, 2019
3.5, but too well written to give 3 stars so I rounded up. I jumped into this series in the middle and quite by accident, but enjoyed it all the same. It's worth a read if you enjoy a pnr once in a while, and I needed a change of scene, so it worked.
July 9, 2015
Disclosure: I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The rest of the review (with quotes and exciting images) is on my blog: http://www.gazellesoncrack.com
I really liked Anne and Murphy and the dynamic they had. It’s refreshing to read about immortals who are BOTH old instead of the old and wise vamp with the freshly turned human (which is fine, but I always wonder why no one can find anyone their own age). I thought their chemistry was well developed and it was easy to believe they had a long, simmering history even though we missed the early days.
There’s something powerful that appeals to the romantic in me about an immortal connection that has survived harsh words and a century apart only to burn even hotter when the spark is re-ignited.
Ms. Hunter’s world building is amazing and every time I read something of hers I have no doubt that this is how it really is. There are powerful vampires controlling the major cities of the world, manipulating them, each other, and us humans in an intricate dance that is equal parts protective and exploitative. I half expect to stumble across the leader of Portland when I’m lost after dark (and would like to inquire as to where I might stumble across him and if he’s a wee bit nicer than the erstwhile leaders of Rome and southern France).
Murphy and Anne were brilliantly written. I felt their pain at their long separation; a pain that flared tempers and made a reunion both harder (a long grudge is harder to give up) and more desirable (who doesn’t want the other half of their soul back?).
But Ms. Hunter writes more than romance – she writes mystery and this was a well-crafted one. Even when the identification of the big bad (to use the parlance of my second favorite vampire hunter) seemed iron-clad, I was still unsure if I was being led down the garden path by a red herring (if I can’t have sandwich metaphors, I’m going to throw everything else into a blender to see what pops out). My hesitation to believe in the seeming inevitability of the bad-guy unmasking (“I would’ve gotten away with it if it hadn’t been for you meddling kids vampires!”) was partially due to the fear that Elizabeth was going to hurt my feels even more and partially due to my stubborn refusal to believe she really wanted to hurt my feels this much.
I’m not delving into spoiler territory, but I will tell you that I said angry words about the author in question. Also a tissue or two at the end might not go amiss if you’re the type to cry when fictional characters you like have bad things happen.
I really liked Anne and Murphy and the dynamic they had. It’s refreshing to read about immortals who are BOTH old instead of the old and wise vamp with the freshly turned human (which is fine, but I always wonder why no one can find anyone their own age). I thought their chemistry was well developed and it was easy to believe they had a long, simmering history even though we missed the early days.
There’s something powerful that appeals to the romantic in me about an immortal connection that has survived harsh words and a century apart only to burn even hotter when the spark is re-ignited.
Ms. Hunter’s world building is amazing and every time I read something of hers I have no doubt that this is how it really is. There are powerful vampires controlling the major cities of the world, manipulating them, each other, and us humans in an intricate dance that is equal parts protective and exploitative. I half expect to stumble across the leader of Portland when I’m lost after dark (and would like to inquire as to where I might stumble across him and if he’s a wee bit nicer than the erstwhile leaders of Rome and southern France).
Murphy and Anne were brilliantly written. I felt their pain at their long separation; a pain that flared tempers and made a reunion both harder (a long grudge is harder to give up) and more desirable (who doesn’t want the other half of their soul back?).
But Ms. Hunter writes more than romance – she writes mystery and this was a well-crafted one. Even when the identification of the big bad (to use the parlance of my second favorite vampire hunter) seemed iron-clad, I was still unsure if I was being led down the garden path by a red herring (if I can’t have sandwich metaphors, I’m going to throw everything else into a blender to see what pops out). My hesitation to believe in the seeming inevitability of the bad-guy unmasking (“I would’ve gotten away with it if it hadn’t been for you meddling kids vampires!”) was partially due to the fear that Elizabeth was going to hurt my feels even more and partially due to my stubborn refusal to believe she really wanted to hurt my feels this much.
I’m not delving into spoiler territory, but I will tell you that I said angry words about the author in question. Also a tissue or two at the end might not go amiss if you’re the type to cry when fictional characters you like have bad things happen.
August 13, 2016
The following review was originally posted on my book blog The Book Challengers.
There were parts of this book that I enjoyed quite a lot, but there were also parts that I didn't enjoy quite as much. Hunter still writes a captivating story and I am a big fan of her works but I don't think I actually related to the characters as much as I could have or would have liked to. Plus Murphy and Anne seemed more intriguing (no joke!) before I read their book...
I thought that Anne and Murphy together were good and I kind of liked them together BUT I was not a fan of a couple of their life decisions and I didn't actually root for them all that much. For the life of me I cannot understand how it took them one hundred years to reconcile after they had already been together for thirty years. How obtuse and stubborn can one be? It was obvious that the two were meant to be together but the only thing standing in their way for one hundred years (!!!!) was Anne's stubbornness to forgive and Murphy's ability to say "I'm sorry for asking something from you". Put your big girl socks on like a man and do what's necessary to stay with your true love! And for your own private parts' sake, stop sleeping through Dublin if you can't say "I'm sorry"!
Although this series has always had a very big attention on the Elixir, I actually found the Elixir part a bit more intriguing than in the previous books. Sure, some parts could have been solved a bit differently and I thought that the connection between the drug and Anne's acquaintances came a bit too conveniently for the whole story, but it was still pretty interesting to read about.
I wish I had liked it more.
There were parts of this book that I enjoyed quite a lot, but there were also parts that I didn't enjoy quite as much. Hunter still writes a captivating story and I am a big fan of her works but I don't think I actually related to the characters as much as I could have or would have liked to. Plus Murphy and Anne seemed more intriguing (no joke!) before I read their book...
I thought that Anne and Murphy together were good and I kind of liked them together BUT I was not a fan of a couple of their life decisions and I didn't actually root for them all that much. For the life of me I cannot understand how it took them one hundred years to reconcile after they had already been together for thirty years. How obtuse and stubborn can one be? It was obvious that the two were meant to be together but the only thing standing in their way for one hundred years (!!!!) was Anne's stubbornness to forgive and Murphy's ability to say "I'm sorry for asking something from you". Put your big girl socks on like a man and do what's necessary to stay with your true love! And for your own private parts' sake, stop sleeping through Dublin if you can't say "I'm sorry"!
Although this series has always had a very big attention on the Elixir, I actually found the Elixir part a bit more intriguing than in the previous books. Sure, some parts could have been solved a bit differently and I thought that the connection between the drug and Anne's acquaintances came a bit too conveniently for the whole story, but it was still pretty interesting to read about.
I wish I had liked it more.
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