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Children of The Night #3
Night's Master
Passion Has a Darker Side...
Kathy McKenna was sure that the little Midwestern town of Oak Hollow would be isolated enough for safety, but the moment the black-clad stranger walked into her bookstore, she knew she was wrong. Raphael Cordova exudes smouldering power, and his sensual touch draws Kathy into a world of limitless pleasure and unimaginable dangers.
Oak Hollow was supposed to be neutral territory for supernatural beings. Instead it has become home to an evil force determined to destroy them—and kill any mortal who gets in the way. As leader of the North American vampires, Raphael has always put duty first, but then, no women ever enthralled him the way Kathy does. And as the enemy's terrifying plan is revealed, Raphael's desire could be a fatal distraction for all his kind, and for the women he has sworn to love forever.
Kathy McKenna was sure that the little Midwestern town of Oak Hollow would be isolated enough for safety, but the moment the black-clad stranger walked into her bookstore, she knew she was wrong. Raphael Cordova exudes smouldering power, and his sensual touch draws Kathy into a world of limitless pleasure and unimaginable dangers.
Oak Hollow was supposed to be neutral territory for supernatural beings. Instead it has become home to an evil force determined to destroy them—and kill any mortal who gets in the way. As leader of the North American vampires, Raphael has always put duty first, but then, no women ever enthralled him the way Kathy does. And as the enemy's terrifying plan is revealed, Raphael's desire could be a fatal distraction for all his kind, and for the women he has sworn to love forever.
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 30, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 25, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Kathy McKenna was positive that her new home would be safe from vampires and werwolves. A war between the two has broken out, and even though both sides are trying for a peaceful resolution, Kathy is determined to find a safe haven and thought that Oak Hollow would be just right. It is said that Oak Hollow is one of the few safe places from the violence that is erupting all over the world and Kathy is human and can’t defend herself against such creatures. She sets up a local bookshop, in this small town. But one day, a handsome stranger walks into her shop, Raphael Cordova, who has power and prestige and is a leader. Raphael and Kathy begin a shaky romance, where their relationship is packed with hurdles. There are strings of kills happening around the town, and Kathy feels more unsafe than she did when she lived in the city. But there is a foul plan, innocent people being killed, and Kathy and Raphael will be stuck in the middle and will need to fight a enemy none of them expect....
The Hero
Raphael Cordova was born a vampire, which is quite rare along with his twin brother. His father is a vampire and his mother a human and later turned. He has always struggled with being a vampire, but eventually learned to accept who he is and the only downer is the loss of his brother leaving them and vanishing. Raphael is close to his family but still feels a aching lonliness. Raphael was quite a sexy hero and I loved his magnetism and strength and how he works his way around Kathy and her ‘stubborn’ nature.
The Heroine
Kathy McKenna, is a heroine that wanted to escape the big city especially with the violence of the vampires and shifters that broke out and seeks a peaceful haven out to a small town with her books. Kathy is a heroine full of strength and courage and stands her ground. I just loved her spunk, and I love how spirited she is even when she is faced with the worst. She is quite resilient and even though she can’t see herself becoming a vampire at all...she is very accepting of Raphael and the life he leads.
Plot and Story Line
Night’s Master is the third book in the series and what a BOOK!!! I truly adored this story so much. Amanda Ashley is becoming a new favorite of mine especially with her vampire romances!!! They are so wonderful and mysterious and compelling. It has been a while since I have been so pulled in by a PNR author. And they are bit spooky enough to put the chills down the spine that I have found to be missing lately. I love a good spooky read, and if you love them too...Amanda Ashley is a author you NEED to try out. I haven’t picked up this series out yet, and I like the whole “war between the two paranormal creatures” and seeing them work toward a peace and getting to the bottom of the problems and seeing a solution together. The romance between Kathy and Raphael is sensual and mysterious and thrilling. It’s a story that I couldn’t put down. What I liked was seeing the strong family ties Raphael has with his family, and I became so intrigued with his lost twin brother (whose story is next), and I liked the mix of paranormal elements that create a beautiful and sexy paranormal romance to curl your toes and make you eager to read more from this talented author!!!
The Cover
I like the blue background with the faces....but other than that its a bit typical for a pnr cover.
Overall View
Night's Master is written by a brilliant storyteller that will take your breath away, give you a romance to send shivers down the spine and deliver a masterful story!!!
[foogallery id="23783"]
Summary
Kathy McKenna was positive that her new home would be safe from vampires and werwolves. A war between the two has broken out, and even though both sides are trying for a peaceful resolution, Kathy is determined to find a safe haven and thought that Oak Hollow would be just right. It is said that Oak Hollow is one of the few safe places from the violence that is erupting all over the world and Kathy is human and can’t defend herself against such creatures. She sets up a local bookshop, in this small town. But one day, a handsome stranger walks into her shop, Raphael Cordova, who has power and prestige and is a leader. Raphael and Kathy begin a shaky romance, where their relationship is packed with hurdles. There are strings of kills happening around the town, and Kathy feels more unsafe than she did when she lived in the city. But there is a foul plan, innocent people being killed, and Kathy and Raphael will be stuck in the middle and will need to fight a enemy none of them expect....
The Hero
Raphael Cordova was born a vampire, which is quite rare along with his twin brother. His father is a vampire and his mother a human and later turned. He has always struggled with being a vampire, but eventually learned to accept who he is and the only downer is the loss of his brother leaving them and vanishing. Raphael is close to his family but still feels a aching lonliness. Raphael was quite a sexy hero and I loved his magnetism and strength and how he works his way around Kathy and her ‘stubborn’ nature.
The Heroine
Kathy McKenna, is a heroine that wanted to escape the big city especially with the violence of the vampires and shifters that broke out and seeks a peaceful haven out to a small town with her books. Kathy is a heroine full of strength and courage and stands her ground. I just loved her spunk, and I love how spirited she is even when she is faced with the worst. She is quite resilient and even though she can’t see herself becoming a vampire at all...she is very accepting of Raphael and the life he leads.
Plot and Story Line
Night’s Master is the third book in the series and what a BOOK!!! I truly adored this story so much. Amanda Ashley is becoming a new favorite of mine especially with her vampire romances!!! They are so wonderful and mysterious and compelling. It has been a while since I have been so pulled in by a PNR author. And they are bit spooky enough to put the chills down the spine that I have found to be missing lately. I love a good spooky read, and if you love them too...Amanda Ashley is a author you NEED to try out. I haven’t picked up this series out yet, and I like the whole “war between the two paranormal creatures” and seeing them work toward a peace and getting to the bottom of the problems and seeing a solution together. The romance between Kathy and Raphael is sensual and mysterious and thrilling. It’s a story that I couldn’t put down. What I liked was seeing the strong family ties Raphael has with his family, and I became so intrigued with his lost twin brother (whose story is next), and I liked the mix of paranormal elements that create a beautiful and sexy paranormal romance to curl your toes and make you eager to read more from this talented author!!!
The Cover
I like the blue background with the faces....but other than that its a bit typical for a pnr cover.
Overall View
Night's Master is written by a brilliant storyteller that will take your breath away, give you a romance to send shivers down the spine and deliver a masterful story!!!
[foogallery id="23783"]
October 18, 2008
This was the best Amanda Ashley contemporary vampire romance book she has written so far (in my opinion of course)! This was Ms. Ashley’s third book in her “Night” series. The heroine Kathy is a very strong character physically, mentally, and emotionally. The hero, Raphael, is a vampire, of course. He is not the typical “old world” vampire. He is a little more modern and “hip.” He has only been a vampire for around 85 years. He was born to vampire parents (in Night’s Touch). His maternal grandparents are also vampires (in Night’s Kiss). He also has a vampire godmother, Mara. Hopefully Ms. Ashley will have a book about her story coming up sometime soon. The next book in the series will be about Raphael’s twin brother Rane, who has disappeared (Night’s Pleasure coming out in Feb. 2009). This was a great read and a fast one too (unfortunately!) so pick this one up and the others in the Night series and enjoy!
March 28, 2021
I'm giving up on Amanda Ashley.
The plot always looks interesting and the romance exciting. That being said when I read it, I tend to find it to be a weird mix of insta love and plot slowed to a crawl.
Why am I doing this to myself
The plot always looks interesting and the romance exciting. That being said when I read it, I tend to find it to be a weird mix of insta love and plot slowed to a crawl.
Why am I doing this to myself
May 4, 2021
This was alright. The plot was surprisingly interesting, and the book itself flowed well. But the romance was?? Not even there. Like, Rafe and Kathy said they loved each other and I was like…who what why. Nothing has happened. How could you love each other already? That made no sense. And it continued to make no sense as the book progressed.
There just wasn’t all that much showing in this book. Not so many actual conversations were had.
I thought the fact that Kathy was first person and Rafe was third person singular was interesting and unexpected and weird.
Overall, a pretty good paranormal story, an okay romance.
There just wasn’t all that much showing in this book. Not so many actual conversations were had.
I thought the fact that Kathy was first person and Rafe was third person singular was interesting and unexpected and weird.
Overall, a pretty good paranormal story, an okay romance.
March 14, 2017
Read a short story by Amanda Ashley in an anthology that I loved, so I thought I'd pick up one of her full length books.
I really could not get into this book. Ashley's writing is smooth and easy to read. However, the characters and pacing of the story just did not hold my interest. The main character, Kathy, opens up a bookstore in a small town and suddenly finds herself caught in the middle of a battle between werewolves and vampires. From that I thought I would enjoy it as it was a very Underworld set up. But Kathy was such a dull character. She barely played an active role in the book. Most of the time it just seemed like she was just along for the ride. Her one role in the book seemed to ask a crap ton of questions. She was constantly grilling Rafe about his past and what it is like to be a vampire. And when she wasn't grilling Rafe she was brooding because he was a vampire. Rafe seemed like an interesting character, but he never really got the chance to develop on his own. Instead we get information dumps on his past through Kathy's questions. Also, for being the leader of the North American vampires he sure didn't seem to have very many responsibilities.
The other thing that really bothered me about this story is that things about the setting didn't mesh. At the very beginning of the book we learn that this story takes place in a future where vampires and werewolves are known to exist by humans and that there's been an ongoing war between them for quite some time. What bothered me about this is that despite vampires and werewolves being known to exist the character knows absolutely nothing about them except the myths. Which just did not make sense within setting that Ashley had set up.
Overall, I enjoy Ashley's writing style but her pacing and the way she developed her characters drove me crazy. I think I'll be sticking to just her short stories from now on.
I really could not get into this book. Ashley's writing is smooth and easy to read. However, the characters and pacing of the story just did not hold my interest. The main character, Kathy, opens up a bookstore in a small town and suddenly finds herself caught in the middle of a battle between werewolves and vampires. From that I thought I would enjoy it as it was a very Underworld set up. But Kathy was such a dull character. She barely played an active role in the book. Most of the time it just seemed like she was just along for the ride. Her one role in the book seemed to ask a crap ton of questions. She was constantly grilling Rafe about his past and what it is like to be a vampire. And when she wasn't grilling Rafe she was brooding because he was a vampire. Rafe seemed like an interesting character, but he never really got the chance to develop on his own. Instead we get information dumps on his past through Kathy's questions. Also, for being the leader of the North American vampires he sure didn't seem to have very many responsibilities.
The other thing that really bothered me about this story is that things about the setting didn't mesh. At the very beginning of the book we learn that this story takes place in a future where vampires and werewolves are known to exist by humans and that there's been an ongoing war between them for quite some time. What bothered me about this is that despite vampires and werewolves being known to exist the character knows absolutely nothing about them except the myths. Which just did not make sense within setting that Ashley had set up.
Overall, I enjoy Ashley's writing style but her pacing and the way she developed her characters drove me crazy. I think I'll be sticking to just her short stories from now on.
March 26, 2025
As the owner of a small bookshop and very much aware that vampires are not to be trusted, the heroine is torn between her unease and attraction to the hero. He’s much more light hearted and less dark and brooding than the other vampires in the series, mainly because he’s the child of a pair of characters in the previous book. But…shocking; this book was extremely boring and had zero pulse. You can rarely expect more than 2 stars for your typical Amanda Ashley book because her characters have dull personalities and the written is flat and unimaginative. Plus, it’s like the same plot in very story. My main problem with this story is that the heroine readily admits to be afraid of the vampire hero, wearing a silver cross to each of their dates and not looking him in the eyes for fear of being hypnotized. Yet 6 chapters in, not even halfway through the book, she’s proclaiming she loves him! It was forced and fake.
December 21, 2014
I was on a bit of a roll with AA's vampire books - got to this one and pulled the break. Major turn-offs (we all have them in literature :-D) for me are few but one of them is evolution denial/creationist views. I simply could not empathise with the heroine after this which immediately broke my immersion in the story. Hey-no....
January 30, 2011
I'm sure there is a market for these books, but it is not me. Very sweet and tame. Ugh!
August 26, 2013
Another good vampire story from Amanda Ashley.
Raphael Cordova is hoping the war between the supernatural and humans won't ruin his chance at happiness with bookstore owner, Kathy McKena.
Raphael Cordova is hoping the war between the supernatural and humans won't ruin his chance at happiness with bookstore owner, Kathy McKena.
March 9, 2018
Really. Kathy is a creationist? For someone who has “faith”, she sure does not get it. And!!!! She loves Rafe, but..., etc. just drags on, and on....
July 25, 2018
Absolutely love this series and author!
Storyline was great, easy to follow and interesting enough to keep my attention. Highly recommend Amanda Ashley's books. Comparable to Christine Feehan
Storyline was great, easy to follow and interesting enough to keep my attention. Highly recommend Amanda Ashley's books. Comparable to Christine Feehan
December 6, 2017
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November 17, 2019
Better than the first two. Cute fun read but not a keeper.
November 2, 2020
Good
Would have enjoyed it more if I liked Kathy. She was wishy washy, and I just didn't like her. Oh well
Would have enjoyed it more if I liked Kathy. She was wishy washy, and I just didn't like her. Oh well
March 18, 2021
Vampires and werewolves; I really liked the way the sexy vampire Rafe fell for Kathy and became her protector.
August 18, 2022
shouldn’t have wasted my time on this
December 20, 2024
Reread. Still found it a good read. I will be reading the rest of this series too.
July 31, 2014
Being the third book in the series, I figured it would continue on with one of Cara and Vincent Cordova's sons, Raphael and Rane Cordova. I was right and very happy about it!
Raphael Cordova is the leader of the North American vampires. Wait...what? I expected the story to be like the other two. The world seems so much different in this one, so much has changed. I was very surprised to learn very early on that it wasn't going to be like the other two books, (first chapter). For one thing, the world knows about the supernatural. The humans know all about the Vampires and the Werewolves, and everything that goes bump in the night. How did that happen? Since Raphael Cordova says he is 85 years old in the story, that means only 85 years have passed since the story line of the second book, Night's Touch. How did the world change so drastically in 85 years? From the human world being blind about the supernatural to suddenly waking up to a war happening on their doorstep between the Vampires and the Werewolves? Everyone was just to calm about it, it's not realistic at all in that department.
Warning! Spoilers!
It was a very good entertaining read, despite the confusion in the beginning. I have a hunch that the two old ladies that were following Cara in Night's Touch were Edna and Pearl. To me that makes sense. It came to me as a shock that they ended up being Vampire hunters. They are old ladies in there seventies! And on top of that they were making a formula to destroy/return the supernatural back into humans. Makes sense since they don't have the strength to actually take on the supernatural physically. I found myself very happy that they didn't have a swift death in the story. It was ironic that Raphael turned them into Vampires at the end. The hunters become the hunted, ha! I couldn't help but find that part funny.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story just as much as the other two. I loved the relationship between Raphael and Kathy McKenna. There was nothing simple about there relationship at all. They had all the realistic reactions and emotional baggage that would accompany dating a vampire. They loved each other, but could she accept what he truly was? They had real problems, problems that would absolutely happen if it were real. I liked how real the characters were, they were so down-to-earth. On another note, I have a suspicion that Kathy comes from a Vampire hunter family. Since Travis Jackson has the same 'gift' as her, it would make sense. Kathy's parents admitted it to her about having the same 'gift' that she inherited. Suspicious.
Raphael Cordova is the leader of the North American vampires. Wait...what? I expected the story to be like the other two. The world seems so much different in this one, so much has changed. I was very surprised to learn very early on that it wasn't going to be like the other two books, (first chapter). For one thing, the world knows about the supernatural. The humans know all about the Vampires and the Werewolves, and everything that goes bump in the night. How did that happen? Since Raphael Cordova says he is 85 years old in the story, that means only 85 years have passed since the story line of the second book, Night's Touch. How did the world change so drastically in 85 years? From the human world being blind about the supernatural to suddenly waking up to a war happening on their doorstep between the Vampires and the Werewolves? Everyone was just to calm about it, it's not realistic at all in that department.
Warning! Spoilers!
It was a very good entertaining read, despite the confusion in the beginning. I have a hunch that the two old ladies that were following Cara in Night's Touch were Edna and Pearl. To me that makes sense. It came to me as a shock that they ended up being Vampire hunters. They are old ladies in there seventies! And on top of that they were making a formula to destroy/return the supernatural back into humans. Makes sense since they don't have the strength to actually take on the supernatural physically. I found myself very happy that they didn't have a swift death in the story. It was ironic that Raphael turned them into Vampires at the end. The hunters become the hunted, ha! I couldn't help but find that part funny.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story just as much as the other two. I loved the relationship between Raphael and Kathy McKenna. There was nothing simple about there relationship at all. They had all the realistic reactions and emotional baggage that would accompany dating a vampire. They loved each other, but could she accept what he truly was? They had real problems, problems that would absolutely happen if it were real. I liked how real the characters were, they were so down-to-earth. On another note, I have a suspicion that Kathy comes from a Vampire hunter family. Since Travis Jackson has the same 'gift' as her, it would make sense. Kathy's parents admitted it to her about having the same 'gift' that she inherited. Suspicious.
August 2, 2009
"Enjoyable Read for Urban Fantasy Lovers"
Kathy McKenna owns a quaint bookstore in the Midwestern town of Oak Hallow. She has a rare gift of spotting preternatural beings. She thought Oak Hallow would be safe away from the Vampire and Were wars, but she finds out that her town is the neutral zone, where all creatures of the night meet and discuss peace. A Were, Cagin asks her out on a date, a Vampire, Raphael (Rafe) wants to court her and a Hunter, Travis wants her for a whole different reason. She should just pack up and leave town, but then she can't stop thinking about Raphael and the way her heart beats faster when he's around.
Raphael (Rafe) Cordova and his twin brother are unique Vampires. They were not turned but became vampires when they were teens. Rafe is the leader of the North American Vampires and in charge of keeping the peace. When he walks into Kathy's bookstore, he didn't plan on courting her, but there is something about her that warms his soul. All he has to do is convince Kathy they belong together. Kathy is human and she wants to stay that way. Will her love for him be enough to make their relationship work?
While Rafe and Kathy try to work out their differences, they must also contend with the Hunters. Travis and his cohorts want to eliminate the preternatural world and they have a diabolical plan in the works to achieve the goal.
Ms. Ashley has written an intriguing Urban Fantasy with good, evil and little in-between. I liked how her characters stayed true. Kathy may love Rafe but she's very human and acts accordingly. She fears what Rafe is. She never forgets he isn't human and she hashes over all the pros and cons of having a lifetime relationship with a Vampire. Can he control his blood lust? Will he turn her without her permission? Will he tire of her when she grows old? If she became a vampire, would she hate that she couldn't go out in the day? Would she miss chocolate, coffee and all other good foods? All good questions. She may love a vampire, but it doesn't mean he's right for her.
Rafe is a strong Alpha male, who is sympathetic to Kathy's plight. I also liked that he didn't treat her as if she couldn't take care of herself. She may be human, but he knew she had a life before him. I also liked the secondary characters, Cagin and Susie. They could have a story all their own. All in all this was an enjoyable read. I believe the tale would also attract the young adult crowd. There's nothing too graphic and the sex scenes are left to the imagination.
Review for PNR Paranormal Reviews
Kathy McKenna owns a quaint bookstore in the Midwestern town of Oak Hallow. She has a rare gift of spotting preternatural beings. She thought Oak Hallow would be safe away from the Vampire and Were wars, but she finds out that her town is the neutral zone, where all creatures of the night meet and discuss peace. A Were, Cagin asks her out on a date, a Vampire, Raphael (Rafe) wants to court her and a Hunter, Travis wants her for a whole different reason. She should just pack up and leave town, but then she can't stop thinking about Raphael and the way her heart beats faster when he's around.
Raphael (Rafe) Cordova and his twin brother are unique Vampires. They were not turned but became vampires when they were teens. Rafe is the leader of the North American Vampires and in charge of keeping the peace. When he walks into Kathy's bookstore, he didn't plan on courting her, but there is something about her that warms his soul. All he has to do is convince Kathy they belong together. Kathy is human and she wants to stay that way. Will her love for him be enough to make their relationship work?
While Rafe and Kathy try to work out their differences, they must also contend with the Hunters. Travis and his cohorts want to eliminate the preternatural world and they have a diabolical plan in the works to achieve the goal.
Ms. Ashley has written an intriguing Urban Fantasy with good, evil and little in-between. I liked how her characters stayed true. Kathy may love Rafe but she's very human and acts accordingly. She fears what Rafe is. She never forgets he isn't human and she hashes over all the pros and cons of having a lifetime relationship with a Vampire. Can he control his blood lust? Will he turn her without her permission? Will he tire of her when she grows old? If she became a vampire, would she hate that she couldn't go out in the day? Would she miss chocolate, coffee and all other good foods? All good questions. She may love a vampire, but it doesn't mean he's right for her.
Rafe is a strong Alpha male, who is sympathetic to Kathy's plight. I also liked that he didn't treat her as if she couldn't take care of herself. She may be human, but he knew she had a life before him. I also liked the secondary characters, Cagin and Susie. They could have a story all their own. All in all this was an enjoyable read. I believe the tale would also attract the young adult crowd. There's nothing too graphic and the sex scenes are left to the imagination.
Review for PNR Paranormal Reviews
December 19, 2010
I just don't get it. What the hell just happened? I mean I was reading a very entertaining series and then... I read ---->THIS.
*SNIFF*
I was loving it at first, it even seemed it would be better than the first 2, but then everything went down hill fast. I mean the "bad guys" in the book were the worst I have read about. SERIOUSLY. The ending of the book was even worst. I'm only giving 2 stars because I enjoyed some parts. But after finishing the book I was so mad I wanted to burn the book. Specially because it had a lot of potential. So many things were just wrong that I don't even know where to start.
**may contain SPOILERS
What's to be afraid of two all ladies without any power at all trying to kill all the werewolves, shifters and vampires in the world? But worst than that was that they were able to do some killings, which is stupid as the supernatural species were described way more powerful than humans, but specially way more powerful than a couple of retired all ladies. And instead of killing them after they got them, they made them vampires, WTF? They got to live for eternity and they even loved it! They were happy about it and everybody else didn't care.
Then no kids? Just like that? All the others got kids, why didn't this couple? The book felt so unfinished! I was just so mad once I finished it. And what about the heroine only being able to admit she would admit the hero to turn her but in time. The whole book she just kept saying no to him. I just hated so many things about this book.
**end of spoilers
I really would not recommend this book. The first 2 were good but this one was one of the worst books I have read in a while. I will read the next because I really did enjoy the first 2, and I really hope it's better than this one. We'll see.
*SNIFF*
I was loving it at first, it even seemed it would be better than the first 2, but then everything went down hill fast. I mean the "bad guys" in the book were the worst I have read about. SERIOUSLY. The ending of the book was even worst. I'm only giving 2 stars because I enjoyed some parts. But after finishing the book I was so mad I wanted to burn the book. Specially because it had a lot of potential. So many things were just wrong that I don't even know where to start.
**may contain SPOILERS
What's to be afraid of two all ladies without any power at all trying to kill all the werewolves, shifters and vampires in the world? But worst than that was that they were able to do some killings, which is stupid as the supernatural species were described way more powerful than humans, but specially way more powerful than a couple of retired all ladies. And instead of killing them after they got them, they made them vampires, WTF? They got to live for eternity and they even loved it! They were happy about it and everybody else didn't care.
Then no kids? Just like that? All the others got kids, why didn't this couple? The book felt so unfinished! I was just so mad once I finished it. And what about the heroine only being able to admit she would admit the hero to turn her but in time. The whole book she just kept saying no to him. I just hated so many things about this book.
**end of spoilers
I really would not recommend this book. The first 2 were good but this one was one of the worst books I have read in a while. I will read the next because I really did enjoy the first 2, and I really hope it's better than this one. We'll see.
June 8, 2010
This book revolves around Kathy McKenna, a young woman who has just moved to a small town and opened a bookstore. In this world supernatural beings are known to humans and a war has broken out between werewolves and Vampires. Kathy moved to get away from the danger of the city, to a small town which she discovers is a neutral zone (paranormal creatures meet to discuss peace without threat of violence). Kathy is overwhelmed by overtures of romance, from werewolf, Cagin toVampire, Raphael (Rafe) and a Hunter, Travis. However, it is for Raphael that Kathy feels the most connection to. Unbeknownst to Kathy, Rafe is unique, a vampire since birth, leader of the North American Vampires and in charge of keeping the peace. While Kathy and Rafe are exploring their relationship, dangers lurk in the form of Travis, a Hunter who wants to eliminate Rafe and all supernatural beings.
I liked this book, it provided me with a good light read after a day at work. I was unaware that Ashely's books were a series and can be intertwined and would like to read this series from the beginning. What drew me to this book was the light plot and sensitive romance. With most vampire books I have read, the seducer can be quite overwhelming and I liked that, while Rafe was a strong protector, he also allowed Kathy her space . While not one of the best vampire novels I have read, I nontheless enjoyed the story and will continue to read Ashley's books.
I liked this book, it provided me with a good light read after a day at work. I was unaware that Ashely's books were a series and can be intertwined and would like to read this series from the beginning. What drew me to this book was the light plot and sensitive romance. With most vampire books I have read, the seducer can be quite overwhelming and I liked that, while Rafe was a strong protector, he also allowed Kathy her space . While not one of the best vampire novels I have read, I nontheless enjoyed the story and will continue to read Ashley's books.
May 13, 2009
I am a long time fan of Amanda Ashley and have read all her books to date. When I started this one, I was surprised to find it in first person, and set at some point in the future. I think it was about 85 years. The beginning was different and interesting.
The first person chapters began to be interspersed with third person chapters from a different character. (Isn't that cheating?) The woman (a 23 yo virgin) was interesting. The book was rolling along nicely. And then....
About halfway through the book completely bombed. To point out just a few of the flaws, the woman became TSTL, the writing became juvenile, and the wrap up at the end was unbelievably stupid. It was extremely difficult to even finish this book. Though I have kept all of her previous books, this one is not staying here. Only because I love to force myself to do unpleasant things will I read the other 3 books I have here of hers. I hope that she will redeem herself in my eyes with the next one.
The first person chapters began to be interspersed with third person chapters from a different character. (Isn't that cheating?) The woman (a 23 yo virgin) was interesting. The book was rolling along nicely. And then....
About halfway through the book completely bombed. To point out just a few of the flaws, the woman became TSTL, the writing became juvenile, and the wrap up at the end was unbelievably stupid. It was extremely difficult to even finish this book. Though I have kept all of her previous books, this one is not staying here. Only because I love to force myself to do unpleasant things will I read the other 3 books I have here of hers. I hope that she will redeem herself in my eyes with the next one.
April 22, 2009
*Meh.* I didn't like this.
It seems to have been written for those with NO knowledge about paranormal characters. It frustrated the heck out of me that the main character didn't know what vampires ate, for instance. She constantly asked questions like, "So what's is like to be a _______?" [fill in the blank with vampire, werewolf, or shapeshifter:] These questions from a character who supposedly lived in a futre USA where vamps and weres roam freely!? Unbelievable.
I guess this was aimed at first-time paranormal romance readers.
And the relationship between the two main characters. Where the author had to spoon feed us what it means to be a vampire, she skimmed over the reason why our vampire lead HAD to be with our heroine.
As for the romance: anti-climatic. The author basically turns the lights off on us. I guess it was good for them. I wouldn't know.
I bought the next book in the series. I'm taking it back to 1/2 Priced Books... unread by me.
It seems to have been written for those with NO knowledge about paranormal characters. It frustrated the heck out of me that the main character didn't know what vampires ate, for instance. She constantly asked questions like, "So what's is like to be a _______?" [fill in the blank with vampire, werewolf, or shapeshifter:] These questions from a character who supposedly lived in a futre USA where vamps and weres roam freely!? Unbelievable.
I guess this was aimed at first-time paranormal romance readers.
And the relationship between the two main characters. Where the author had to spoon feed us what it means to be a vampire, she skimmed over the reason why our vampire lead HAD to be with our heroine.
As for the romance: anti-climatic. The author basically turns the lights off on us. I guess it was good for them. I wouldn't know.
I bought the next book in the series. I'm taking it back to 1/2 Priced Books... unread by me.
August 12, 2012
I haven't finished yet, but the writing is really dragging the whole thing down. The overall tone is too formal to be relatable, and the dialogue is extremely stiff. There's also a lot of repetition - "I miss being able to partake in food and drink. I wonder if she's able to partake in food and drink?" - or moments of the allegedly intelligent main characters acting stupid so the reader can get information. There's also a lot of random/unnecessary detail in the narration that throws off the pacing of the story - how many and what types of books the heroine sells each day. I think this book feels more like a first or second draft than a finished product.
All in all, it's not my cup of tea, though I love books in this genre, and I was excited by the potential of an independent bookstore owner + vampire on neutral ground.
All in all, it's not my cup of tea, though I love books in this genre, and I was excited by the potential of an independent bookstore owner + vampire on neutral ground.
October 26, 2009
wow. another great one from amanda Ashley. she is such a masterful storyteller. she draws you into the story from page one. like wow. what a great couple. kathy and rafe. they were so made for each other. she wanted to get away from the supernatural community and that so didnt happen. but life what can you say throws you curves. but that is life. they had hunter against them. and a war brewing between the vamps and wares. but everything work out great. such a sweet ending. i loved it.the town of oak hollow is such a quaint little town you would think all that was happening but it was. it is the type of town i think would be cool to live in. none of the big stores. a bookstore like a used one. but not like border and thought that was cool.
September 16, 2013
Lame heroine. Started out decent but completely fell apart. This book was tough to finish. The heroine, Kathy was one dimensional and super annoying. Her constant boohooing about the vamp thing drove me nuts. I also felt like ridiculous decisions were made by Rafe. They know there are hunters in town! Take precautions! Lastly, this book didn't flow and they never addressed why Kathy can sense the supernaturals. Unsatisfying to say the least.
January 28, 2009
This was a fun vampire, shapeshifter book. It takes place in the not so distant future where there is a war between the Immortals and humans are waiting for the outcome. This is apparently part of a undefined series. I liked it enough to get the book that sort of preceeds this. If you like vampire books, this one was a good read.
July 24, 2009
So far this series has a great story line and was very refreshing read. This series does not have any explicit sex sceens but leaves your imagination running with thought. This series was just as good as the Twilight Series only its not about teen agers. I look forward to reading the next book in the series "Nights Pleasure".
January 31, 2016
Kathy McKenna moves from New York to a small Midwestern town looking for a safe, peaceful place to live and open a bookstore. Little does she know that there is a world of supernatural beings surrounding her, until vampire Raphael Cordova walks into her store, and her world will never be the same again.
June 22, 2014
I adore this series, and Rafe & Kathy's installment is nearly perfect. It's a great story to lose yourself in for a day & just enjoy another Cordova man. : ) We get to see a bit of Roshan, Brenna, Vince & Cara as well, which is always nice. This sort of made me want to re-read the other books in the series... : )
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