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Wounded Soul
One night can change everything…
Jesse Sykes has lived far longer than his youthful appearance suggests. Becoming a vampire after tragedy struck seemed the only option when his soul was shattered, after all he’s no stranger to having to hide what he is from the rest of the world. But eternal life isn’t without problems or heartache.
With a good job and great friends, Ian Moreton’s life would be almost perfect—if only he wasn’t in love with his best friend. His feelings are unrequited, and in an effort to move on, he takes a chance on a one-night stand with the handsome stranger he meets in a bar.
Jesse knows the risks of becoming attached to a human, but with neither of them looking for anything serious, where’s the harm? At least, that’s what Jesse thinks until his chemistry with Ian proves off the charts.
A second hook-up solidifies their connection…and brings Jesse to his senses. He scrambles to protect Ian from danger, but it’s already too late. With Ian unwittingly drawn into a world he knows nothing about, events are set in motion that will change both of their lives forever, and it’s up to Jesse to steer them safely through it.
Jesse Sykes has lived far longer than his youthful appearance suggests. Becoming a vampire after tragedy struck seemed the only option when his soul was shattered, after all he’s no stranger to having to hide what he is from the rest of the world. But eternal life isn’t without problems or heartache.
With a good job and great friends, Ian Moreton’s life would be almost perfect—if only he wasn’t in love with his best friend. His feelings are unrequited, and in an effort to move on, he takes a chance on a one-night stand with the handsome stranger he meets in a bar.
Jesse knows the risks of becoming attached to a human, but with neither of them looking for anything serious, where’s the harm? At least, that’s what Jesse thinks until his chemistry with Ian proves off the charts.
A second hook-up solidifies their connection…and brings Jesse to his senses. He scrambles to protect Ian from danger, but it’s already too late. With Ian unwittingly drawn into a world he knows nothing about, events are set in motion that will change both of their lives forever, and it’s up to Jesse to steer them safely through it.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2018
26 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books405 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 18, 2020
I loved the "Regent Park Pack" series by this author and so I was sure I was gonna love this new "vampire" series as well... I mean what is hotter than a badass vamp ??
This series actually reminded me a lot of the Regent Park series, especially with the way Ian was introduced to the vampire world.
Now as much as I enjoyed this book...it also really pissed me off because I wanted to kill the villain in this story myself !!!
I actually needed to stop reading a couple of times because I was so angry !!
Thankfully the MC's were pretty great as were their BFF's. Ian and Jesse were very sweet together..and hot...lets not forget hot. I myself would have been upset a bit longer than Ian though, but it's not like he had any choice in the matter anymore anyway.
I was a bit disappointed with the steam level plummeting from beginning to end. If it would have been the other way around that would have been fine, but I don't really like it when a book starts off all hot and ends lukewarm. Especially because I want to see/read about their connection when things are more serious between them !!
I think this first book was a great introduction to this new series and the world of vampires. I myself can't wait to see what's next... I hope it's Raph's book. Though I have to say that I am a bit upset with him for making such bad decisions. I expect more from a coven leader and so I hope he redeems himself a bit in the upcoming books.
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
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April 23, 2019
3.5
It's been a while since I read a vampire romance and,unfortunately,this was a bit hit and miss for me.
Ian has been lusting after his best friend for years but Blake certainly doesn't feel the same way.Realizing it's time to move on Ian accepts the advances of a hot stranger one night and a night of passion is about to have a dramatic effect on his life.Jesse knows it's wrong pursuing a human but the pull of Ian is too strong to resist.....
Positives,
-I liked the world the Author created here.The idea of vampires and humans existing side by side in the modern world worked here.However the vampires had to adhere to a set of rules and there's always the exception to the rule...
-Jesse and Ian were pretty adorable together and definitely had great chemistry going on.
-supporting characters that all played their part,especially the two female best friends.
Negatives,
-the villain in the story,Peter,was a completely over the top character.Something about his character just didn't work for me.
-the first half of the story was pretty good but the second half left me wanting.It became all about Peter,turned out to be a bit predictable and the 'romance' kind of took a back seat.
-For me,Ian seemed to accept the situation he found himself in much too easily.
Other reviews are much more positive but this turned out just ok for me.
An Arc of Wounded Soul was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a while since I read a vampire romance and,unfortunately,this was a bit hit and miss for me.
Ian has been lusting after his best friend for years but Blake certainly doesn't feel the same way.Realizing it's time to move on Ian accepts the advances of a hot stranger one night and a night of passion is about to have a dramatic effect on his life.Jesse knows it's wrong pursuing a human but the pull of Ian is too strong to resist.....
Positives,
-I liked the world the Author created here.The idea of vampires and humans existing side by side in the modern world worked here.However the vampires had to adhere to a set of rules and there's always the exception to the rule...
-Jesse and Ian were pretty adorable together and definitely had great chemistry going on.
-supporting characters that all played their part,especially the two female best friends.
Negatives,
-the villain in the story,Peter,was a completely over the top character.Something about his character just didn't work for me.
-the first half of the story was pretty good but the second half left me wanting.It became all about Peter,turned out to be a bit predictable and the 'romance' kind of took a back seat.
-For me,Ian seemed to accept the situation he found himself in much too easily.
Other reviews are much more positive but this turned out just ok for me.
An Arc of Wounded Soul was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2019
A vampire walks into a gay bar...
After years of pining for his best friend, when unrequited-love-struck Ian was finally given a fairly-harsh reality check by his best gal pal, his decision to take someone home for the night unknowingly changed his life. Forever.
Jesse had been a vampire since the 1950's, but was still getting over the love of his human life. He was no stranger to hookups, but he'd never felt that *spark* of romantic attraction with anyone else. Until Ian.
The book started out pretty hot and heavy in the steam department, as the pair hooked up twice. Then the possessive vampire who had sired Jesse began to interfere, with deadly consequences for Ian.
A lot of this story reminded me of Jacobs' previous book, "Bitten by Mistake". But with vampires. Not in a bad way, but the feeling of déjà vu was there, nonetheless.
As with that previous book, The Big Bad was someone in a position of power over the paranormally-blessed MC, and would go to any length to get what he wanted, how he wanted it, and when he wanted it.
In spite of the intense feeling of plot line familiarity, I really enjoyed seeing Ian and Jesse bond, then work their way through another "accidental" turning from human to non-human, then the efforts to keep Ian alive while being stalked by The Big Bad and his henchmen.
Albert barely strayed from the old tried and true "this is how vampirism works" mythology (sunlight, silver, stakes, strength and speed), which was a slight disappointment, as my last read, "Nox" by Adrienne Wilder, took almost every expected rule for werewolves and set them on their edge with exciting and satisfying results.
But even with the bit of predictability, I was on the edge of my seat watching the calculated chess game between the good and bad guys play out, especially when the final moves were made.
And The Big Bad in this story? He was one of the most ruthless, plotting, vicious characters I've read in a while, so I was thrilled when Jesse finally realized that the asshat would never stop, and decided that a final, *permanent* solution was the only way forward.
Before the HEA, there was one short separation, but Jacobs blessedly avoided using The Big Misunderstanding as a means of introducing more drama, for which I am always profoundly grateful.
I'd say that this story contained a moderate amount of feels, enough to feel organic and genuine, but not enough to induce Wookie Cry Face.
So I'd recommend this 4 star book to anyone looking for a bit of vampy action, while not venturing too far from previous fanged hero tales that they've read.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
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May 28, 2019
~4.5~
I love vampire books, and Wounded Soul hit all my buttons:
complex MCs;
interesting secondary characters (both men have strong women in their lives);
evil villain who nevertheless feels human (even though he's not);
plenty of passionate sex, biting included;
action & suspense;
and a truly forever kind of HEA.
Be warned there's some gory violence toward the end, but I didn't find it gratuitous.
I couldn't put this book down and am already obsessing about book two (Annabelle Jacobs, please don't crush my dreams!).
This world has high series potential!
I love vampire books, and Wounded Soul hit all my buttons:
complex MCs;
interesting secondary characters (both men have strong women in their lives);
evil villain who nevertheless feels human (even though he's not);
plenty of passionate sex, biting included;
action & suspense;
and a truly forever kind of HEA.
Be warned there's some gory violence toward the end, but I didn't find it gratuitous.
I couldn't put this book down and am already obsessing about book two (Annabelle Jacobs, please don't crush my dreams!).
This world has high series potential!
April 20, 2019
Annabelle wrote one of my favourite shifter series, the Regent's Park Pack, now it looks like she's just written one of my favourite vampire stories too.
I love paranormal, it's top of my tree alongside fantasy and Sci-Fi, so finding great books which make your heart pound and your stomach clench is a joy.
In this, the bad guy really is bad, there are real consequences for mixing the paranormal world with the human one and there's the start of a love which literally changes lives.
Ian and Jessie were wonderful characters, but there's also a great supporting cast that I'm desperate to know more about.
Two strong female characters who buck the stereotypical trend for a best friend, a world which doesn't know that potential killers walk the streets anonymously.
Annabelle's Bristol is a city of secrets and, while this book still feels mostly British, it has an edge to it which lets the reader experience the trepidation Ian and Cate feel when they get the confirmation that vampires do exist.
I loved everything about this book. I haven't hated a bad guy quite as much for ages!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I love paranormal, it's top of my tree alongside fantasy and Sci-Fi, so finding great books which make your heart pound and your stomach clench is a joy.
In this, the bad guy really is bad, there are real consequences for mixing the paranormal world with the human one and there's the start of a love which literally changes lives.
Ian and Jessie were wonderful characters, but there's also a great supporting cast that I'm desperate to know more about.
Two strong female characters who buck the stereotypical trend for a best friend, a world which doesn't know that potential killers walk the streets anonymously.
Annabelle's Bristol is a city of secrets and, while this book still feels mostly British, it has an edge to it which lets the reader experience the trepidation Ian and Cate feel when they get the confirmation that vampires do exist.
I loved everything about this book. I haven't hated a bad guy quite as much for ages!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
May 7, 2019
It doesn’t matter what Jacobs writes, she rocks it. The last book I read from her was bittersweet. I was struggling to accept the reality that The Regent’s Park Pack ended and was wondering how I could move on with her bookshelf. Apparently, the answer was vampires. I began this tale without reading the blurb (not something I do with many authors) and was pleasantly surprised to discover bloodsuckers. Yep. I love me some vamps. If you enjoyed her phenomenal shifter series, I will confidently gamble that you will enjoy this story as well. They are vastly different but share similar undertones. The way Ian was introduced to the supernatural world ran in parallel lines and there were clearly good vamps and evil vamps, much like the good vs evil with my favorite Pack. The writing was superb and I was engaged from the first few pages. This book felt complete but I could certainly read more from this newfound world. If there’s any possibility for another bite, count me in!
What's to like: I can always count on Jacobs to bring solid (and sexy) characters to the party. Yes, consider her stories a celebration. It was easy to fall for both Ian and Jesse. Their chemistry was instantaneous. A slight smolder ignited and burst into flames. Well, on second thought, Jesse is rather combustible and we should steer clear from potential risks (aka the sun). Nevertheless, it doesn’t take much to fuel their fire. Too bad Jesse can’t stoke it again and again. He can play but he’s not allowed to keep. Speaking of keeping, Peter wishes to hold onto something (or someone) that doesn’t belong to him. Peter sired Jesse many moons ago and despises the distance Jesse has recently placed between them. I hated Peter with every fiber of my being. Jacobs excels with her vicious monster in this tale. He is absolutely dreadful. On the other hand, everyone else is delightful. I adored both female besties and Ian’s other bestie, Blake, eventually grew on me. The cast was lovely, the plot was thick and the action kept rolling…lots to like.
What's to love: There’s a reason that AJ is one of my go-to, automatic, one-click authors. Her voice is clear and strong and whisks me into her world. I adored the setting and smoothly slipped right in. She blends humor, heat and sweet. The vampire world building was typical but the history sets this story apart from the others. Piece by piece, we discover the truth and some layers sting more than others. I enjoyed several second-string characters so much, I almost wish this was a series and we were allowed a closer look. For as much that was packed in, it still had intimates touches. I loved how careful Jesse was. I loved how accepting Ian was. I adored how protective Lys was. I enjoyed how endearing Cate was. And I couldn’t get enough of Raph. I was a bit disappointed in a poor decision he made but even coven leader’s make mistakes. This story felt full and left me happy. And honestly, what’s not to love about that?
Beware of: A repulsive creep that deserves a stake straight through his black heart. Unconventional creatures living up to conventional standards. Marvelous MC’s that are sure to melt your heart. And a soul-soothing ending.
This book is for: If you crave vampires and fancy PNR, put this on your list. And if you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing Jacobs superior skills, Wounded Soul is a great place to start.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: I can always count on Jacobs to bring solid (and sexy) characters to the party. Yes, consider her stories a celebration. It was easy to fall for both Ian and Jesse. Their chemistry was instantaneous. A slight smolder ignited and burst into flames. Well, on second thought, Jesse is rather combustible and we should steer clear from potential risks (aka the sun). Nevertheless, it doesn’t take much to fuel their fire. Too bad Jesse can’t stoke it again and again. He can play but he’s not allowed to keep. Speaking of keeping, Peter wishes to hold onto something (or someone) that doesn’t belong to him. Peter sired Jesse many moons ago and despises the distance Jesse has recently placed between them. I hated Peter with every fiber of my being. Jacobs excels with her vicious monster in this tale. He is absolutely dreadful. On the other hand, everyone else is delightful. I adored both female besties and Ian’s other bestie, Blake, eventually grew on me. The cast was lovely, the plot was thick and the action kept rolling…lots to like.
What's to love: There’s a reason that AJ is one of my go-to, automatic, one-click authors. Her voice is clear and strong and whisks me into her world. I adored the setting and smoothly slipped right in. She blends humor, heat and sweet. The vampire world building was typical but the history sets this story apart from the others. Piece by piece, we discover the truth and some layers sting more than others. I enjoyed several second-string characters so much, I almost wish this was a series and we were allowed a closer look. For as much that was packed in, it still had intimates touches. I loved how careful Jesse was. I loved how accepting Ian was. I adored how protective Lys was. I enjoyed how endearing Cate was. And I couldn’t get enough of Raph. I was a bit disappointed in a poor decision he made but even coven leader’s make mistakes. This story felt full and left me happy. And honestly, what’s not to love about that?
Beware of: A repulsive creep that deserves a stake straight through his black heart. Unconventional creatures living up to conventional standards. Marvelous MC’s that are sure to melt your heart. And a soul-soothing ending.
This book is for: If you crave vampires and fancy PNR, put this on your list. And if you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing Jacobs superior skills, Wounded Soul is a great place to start.
Book UNfunk
June 7, 2019
Eh, this one was just okay for me.
It started off pretty good, but the pacing was off for me. I got a bid bored and started to skim.
I didn't really read the blurb, I was just hoping for some biting. #shrugs I mean, I got a bite. Of the sexy variety anyways.
I don't know. It was fine. Didn't love it, didn't hate it.
It started off pretty good, but the pacing was off for me. I got a bid bored and started to skim.
I didn't really read the blurb, I was just hoping for some biting. #shrugs I mean, I got a bite. Of the sexy variety anyways.
I don't know. It was fine. Didn't love it, didn't hate it.
June 13, 2019
I loved the "Regent's Park" series, so I couldn’t pass on this book!
I liked the plot and the characters and I think it’s a good start for a new series... but I would have preferred the story if it had been longer, I think some passages deserved more deepening, especially toward the end. The epilogue was waaaaay too short! so, I liked it but I'm not enthusiastic about this one.
I recommend this book for sure if you enjoyed the Regent's Park series, it’s similar but vampires!!
I hope this series (there will will be a series, right??) will be just as good as the other one!
I liked the plot and the characters and I think it’s a good start for a new series... but I would have preferred the story if it had been longer, I think some passages deserved more deepening, especially toward the end. The epilogue was waaaaay too short! so, I liked it but I'm not enthusiastic about this one.
I recommend this book for sure if you enjoyed the Regent's Park series, it’s similar but vampires!!
I hope this series (there will will be a series, right??) will be just as good as the other one!
July 12, 2019
Weeeellll...MEH.
This was mostly a miss for me.
I'm a Vampire fangirl. No doubt about it. And I love them all different ways. I love the classic vamp, the sparkly vamp, the insane I'm a God vamp, and everything in between. So yeah, I liked this one a bit because, well, Vampires. But, just a bit.
I like how this started out. I liked the attraction and wondering how this was going to work. The discovery is always the best part.
But after that, I didn't like much else. I didn't buy it I guess and that makes for a difficult read. I felt all the decisions and actions were kind of stupid and what happened because of them, well, duh. So, yeah, the whole setup just felt ridiculous and lost my attention.
Oh, and I really, really disliked Peter. It all just felt so manufactured.
Oh well, at least there were Vamps!
This was mostly a miss for me.
I'm a Vampire fangirl. No doubt about it. And I love them all different ways. I love the classic vamp, the sparkly vamp, the insane I'm a God vamp, and everything in between. So yeah, I liked this one a bit because, well, Vampires. But, just a bit.
I like how this started out. I liked the attraction and wondering how this was going to work. The discovery is always the best part.
But after that, I didn't like much else. I didn't buy it I guess and that makes for a difficult read. I felt all the decisions and actions were kind of stupid and what happened because of them, well, duh. So, yeah, the whole setup just felt ridiculous and lost my attention.
Oh, and I really, really disliked Peter. It all just felt so manufactured.
Oh well, at least there were Vamps!
July 2, 2019
***3.5 stars***
Started off a bit slow, but was very intrigued by a PNR involving vampires instead of what I usually find. The world the author built is very intriguing. I just wish there was more detail/backstory to it. The characters were decent and as I kept reading I found myself invested Jesse and Ian’s possible relationship.
Started off a bit slow, but was very intrigued by a PNR involving vampires instead of what I usually find. The world the author built is very intriguing. I just wish there was more detail/backstory to it. The characters were decent and as I kept reading I found myself invested Jesse and Ian’s possible relationship.
April 30, 2019
This is a fun, old-school vampire story. There isn’t anything overly original as vampire stories go, but it was quite enjoyable nonetheless. In this story, the vampires have an agreement with the Vampire Police Force – in return for not feeding on live humans, they will in turn not be hunted down. This has worked for a while, but not all vampires are happy about having had to give up on their own hunting and thrill of feeding that way. One such vampire happens to be Jesse’s sire, Peter, who has clearly not ever truly gotten over the fact that Jesse turned away from him. He seems to be on a mission to go back to the old rules, and unfortunately, he uses Jesse as a pawn to get what he wants.
Ian is trying to get over the unrequited love of his bff, who just happens to now be a trainee member of the Vampire Police Force. At the urging of his other bff, Claire, Ian opens himself up to other possibilities, one of which is a hookup with Jesse. Even though they share some amazing chemistry, it is that very reason that Jesse pulls a disappearing act. Jesse is super sexy, sweet and easily likable as vamps go. He feels the pull to Ian, but knowing it isn’t a good idea, he pulls himself away. Unfortunately, it hasn’t gone unnoticed by Peter, who sets in motion events that shape the rest of the story. Can’t say much more about that without giving too much away.
Suffice to say, this was just a really enjoyable easy read that I found to be quite entertaining. I enjoyed the writing style, the humor and characters involved. There were a few things that I felt could have been written slightly differently, such as Peter who seemed just a bit too much at times, as well as the way everything wrapped up rather quickly. Although, I enjoyed how the story didn’t end there but jumped ahead slightly to show the HEA. This was my first read by this author, but I’ve heard good things about her other series as well. Based on how much I enjoyed the writing style here, I am definitely going to be checking them out.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
Ian is trying to get over the unrequited love of his bff, who just happens to now be a trainee member of the Vampire Police Force. At the urging of his other bff, Claire, Ian opens himself up to other possibilities, one of which is a hookup with Jesse. Even though they share some amazing chemistry, it is that very reason that Jesse pulls a disappearing act. Jesse is super sexy, sweet and easily likable as vamps go. He feels the pull to Ian, but knowing it isn’t a good idea, he pulls himself away. Unfortunately, it hasn’t gone unnoticed by Peter, who sets in motion events that shape the rest of the story. Can’t say much more about that without giving too much away.
Suffice to say, this was just a really enjoyable easy read that I found to be quite entertaining. I enjoyed the writing style, the humor and characters involved. There were a few things that I felt could have been written slightly differently, such as Peter who seemed just a bit too much at times, as well as the way everything wrapped up rather quickly. Although, I enjoyed how the story didn’t end there but jumped ahead slightly to show the HEA. This was my first read by this author, but I’ve heard good things about her other series as well. Based on how much I enjoyed the writing style here, I am definitely going to be checking them out.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
April 21, 2019
Loved this book. It's been a while since I read a vampire book and I sort of missed it. This has the pretty standard folklore/ mythology (speed,strength, death by sun etc.) so nothing new there.
Ian and Jesse are pretty hot together. Loved the chemistry and sex. Falling for a human when you don't age is bad. I always think like one character will live forever and see the other grow old and die. But most books get around that so it's alright. This one deals with that halfway through but I didn't see that coming.
Peter. I fucking hate that sick bastard. He deserved what he got. This book makes you love the good characters and hate the bad ones. There's no grey area. There were times I was on the edge of seat. Read it in one sitting and loved it.
I loved Lys and Cate. Badass female characters? Sign me right up. Raph and Liam. Is there something there? Or is it just me?(it's probably just me)
*ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest and unbiased review
Ian and Jesse are pretty hot together. Loved the chemistry and sex. Falling for a human when you don't age is bad. I always think like one character will live forever and see the other grow old and die. But most books get around that so it's alright. This one deals with that halfway through but I didn't see that coming.
Peter. I fucking hate that sick bastard. He deserved what he got. This book makes you love the good characters and hate the bad ones. There's no grey area. There were times I was on the edge of seat. Read it in one sitting and loved it.
I loved Lys and Cate. Badass female characters? Sign me right up. Raph and Liam. Is there something there? Or is it just me?(it's probably just me)
*ARC provided by the author in exchange of an honest and unbiased review
June 3, 2019
I really enjoyed this, great start to a new series, maybe? *I hope* Maybe a little predictable but I loved the MCs and there were a couple of great secondaries as well. When the bad guy got his, it was totally satisfying. :) I'm crossing my fingers for more.
May 2, 2019
..3,5.
I debated myself whether three or four, so I ended gave this one 3,5.
Jesse and Ian unquestionably adorable together, they hit it off from the get go, can't stop thinking about each other and a supposedly one night stand had become two, and there were when the real story begun.
I liked Ian and Jesse, but NOT Peter. I think he's the major reason I considered to low down the rating, just because he's the most unlikable character in this story.
I always avoided a love triangle in my reading as much as I can, and Wounded Soul is 'that' book.
While I felt a little uncomfortable , I had to continue the story.
I think this was an okay read and has so many potential to make me like it, but unfortunately there's something missing that I cannot point what it was.
I'll get back to you when (if) I'll find out what.
January 13, 2020
Va bien hasta que la trama intenta ser intrigante, ahí la pifia!
Los buenos son increíblemente buenos y los malos son malos de culebrón. 3 porque está bien hilado, 2* para la historia
Los buenos son increíblemente buenos y los malos son malos de culebrón. 3 porque está bien hilado, 2* para la historia
April 19, 2019
I love the whole vampires and humans trope. Especially when the human has no idea that vampires exist. So this was a very fun read for me.
From the start I was instantly drawn to Ian. His unrequited crush on his best friend had halted his social life and he was finally trying to do something about it when he meets Jesse. He didn't hold back his feelings or emotions and he was fiercely loyal.
Jesse just wanted to love someone. He wanted to be able to call someone his and protect them. It hadn't worked out so well in the past, so he was careful and cautious. But something with Ian just clicked.
I liked the friction in this story. There was a ton of potholes and traps to get to the end and it created suspense and intrigue. I also really enjoyed the tense, intimate moments that took place when Ian and Jesse were together. It just really solidified their bond and made it real, even in the short amount of time that the story takes place.
Overall, this was highly entertaining and full of surprise. I enjoyed Annabelle Jacobs take on a human society living with vampires and the world building that was described. A very enjoyable read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
From the start I was instantly drawn to Ian. His unrequited crush on his best friend had halted his social life and he was finally trying to do something about it when he meets Jesse. He didn't hold back his feelings or emotions and he was fiercely loyal.
Jesse just wanted to love someone. He wanted to be able to call someone his and protect them. It hadn't worked out so well in the past, so he was careful and cautious. But something with Ian just clicked.
I liked the friction in this story. There was a ton of potholes and traps to get to the end and it created suspense and intrigue. I also really enjoyed the tense, intimate moments that took place when Ian and Jesse were together. It just really solidified their bond and made it real, even in the short amount of time that the story takes place.
Overall, this was highly entertaining and full of surprise. I enjoyed Annabelle Jacobs take on a human society living with vampires and the world building that was described. A very enjoyable read.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/*
June 8, 2019
3.5 rounded down
I love me a good Vampire m/m romance, and this one was enjoyable! I liked the world the author created here, and the characters were great. I really enjoyed the first half of the book, but the second half didn't work as well for me. I found the villain to be over-the-top and so predictable that I couldn't really understand how all the characters kept playing right into his hands when he wasn't exactly being subtle. The steam and romance really seemed to wane in the second half, with the focus more on the plot, which was kind of boring and predictable, when I much rather would have had more of Ian and Jesse adjusting to their new dynamic. They had a good build and tension, but in the second half, it seemed like they got together again really quickly and it just didn't feel quite believable for me, maybe because
I did enjoy it overall, and I'd probably read more if the author continues with this series. Pretty standard fare for this author I'd say.
I love me a good Vampire m/m romance, and this one was enjoyable! I liked the world the author created here, and the characters were great. I really enjoyed the first half of the book, but the second half didn't work as well for me. I found the villain to be over-the-top and so predictable that I couldn't really understand how all the characters kept playing right into his hands when he wasn't exactly being subtle. The steam and romance really seemed to wane in the second half, with the focus more on the plot, which was kind of boring and predictable, when I much rather would have had more of Ian and Jesse adjusting to their new dynamic. They had a good build and tension, but in the second half, it seemed like they got together again really quickly and it just didn't feel quite believable for me, maybe because
I did enjoy it overall, and I'd probably read more if the author continues with this series. Pretty standard fare for this author I'd say.
Read
May 30, 2019DNF
April 22, 2019
I received a free copy of this title to read & review for Wicked Reads
3 Frustrating Stars
While maintaining a spoiler-free review, I will begin by saying my opinions will undoubtedly be in the minority.
I felt the characters' actions were driven to push the plot forward to a predetermined ending, with little regard to whether or not those actions were in line with who & what the character was written to be.
Example: a coven leader making the choice to send an antagonist to watch someone for the person he antognizes, which he's personally witnessed for decades. Raph ensured a trusted task to the very man who tests his authority and is outwardly trying to usurp him, then believes the lies he spins. This bumbling behavior by the man in charge was out of character but meant to be ignored, simply because it caused the drama to propel the plot forward. Using the excuse of how they were currently getting along, for like 3 pages, doesn't erase how ridiculous this was. Time runs differently for an immortal. 3 pages would be a second to a human's day. It would take years of Peter & Ian getting along before Raph would have believed that, after 70 years of constant torment.
The villain progressively getting careless, yet no one could thwart him? How was Peter to explain the staked vampire back at the coven? No proof? IAN WAS THE PROOF.
Quote: Jesse hated it when Peter made sense. Hated having to agree with him. .... there wasn't anything out of Peter's mouth that made sense, so the entire cast of characters ended up looking like fools.
I truly enjoyed the beginning, finding a real connection between Jesse & Ian, even if I felt their actions were too juvenile for their ages. There was some banter, steam, & delicious forbidden angst. But when the action started, I felt nothing but frustration as I witnessed the characters turn, not turn into vampires, but turn into ignorant children.
Obviously this book wasn't meant for me. I'm a huge fan of both MM Romance & Paranormal Romance, but how unintelligent the characters behaved was a major turn-off for me.
To sum the book up in a nutshell: siblings fighting, both holding secrets over the other's head, one wants to tell Daddy but is too scared, & the other is the older bully sibling playing on the younger brother's ignorance & cowardice. Yet they were grown men who had lived an upwards of 100 years... and Daddy was too busy to pay attention to his battling children, and innocents got caught in the crossfire.
At the top of my pet-peeve list is how vampire characters never act their actual age, with maturity & reasoning, but end up coming off as young teens, no matter how old they are portraying.
Not every book can be a hit for every reader, and this was a miss for me. While I personally wasn't a fan, that doesn't mean I don't recommend this novel for readers who enjoy a warm & fuzzy take on vampire culture. As I said, I was rooting for Ian & Jesse from the start, but didn't enjoy the turn the book took.
3 Frustrating Stars
While maintaining a spoiler-free review, I will begin by saying my opinions will undoubtedly be in the minority.
I felt the characters' actions were driven to push the plot forward to a predetermined ending, with little regard to whether or not those actions were in line with who & what the character was written to be.
Example: a coven leader making the choice to send an antagonist to watch someone for the person he antognizes, which he's personally witnessed for decades. Raph ensured a trusted task to the very man who tests his authority and is outwardly trying to usurp him, then believes the lies he spins. This bumbling behavior by the man in charge was out of character but meant to be ignored, simply because it caused the drama to propel the plot forward. Using the excuse of how they were currently getting along, for like 3 pages, doesn't erase how ridiculous this was. Time runs differently for an immortal. 3 pages would be a second to a human's day. It would take years of Peter & Ian getting along before Raph would have believed that, after 70 years of constant torment.
The villain progressively getting careless, yet no one could thwart him? How was Peter to explain the staked vampire back at the coven? No proof? IAN WAS THE PROOF.
Quote: Jesse hated it when Peter made sense. Hated having to agree with him. .... there wasn't anything out of Peter's mouth that made sense, so the entire cast of characters ended up looking like fools.
I truly enjoyed the beginning, finding a real connection between Jesse & Ian, even if I felt their actions were too juvenile for their ages. There was some banter, steam, & delicious forbidden angst. But when the action started, I felt nothing but frustration as I witnessed the characters turn, not turn into vampires, but turn into ignorant children.
Obviously this book wasn't meant for me. I'm a huge fan of both MM Romance & Paranormal Romance, but how unintelligent the characters behaved was a major turn-off for me.
To sum the book up in a nutshell: siblings fighting, both holding secrets over the other's head, one wants to tell Daddy but is too scared, & the other is the older bully sibling playing on the younger brother's ignorance & cowardice. Yet they were grown men who had lived an upwards of 100 years... and Daddy was too busy to pay attention to his battling children, and innocents got caught in the crossfire.
At the top of my pet-peeve list is how vampire characters never act their actual age, with maturity & reasoning, but end up coming off as young teens, no matter how old they are portraying.
Not every book can be a hit for every reader, and this was a miss for me. While I personally wasn't a fan, that doesn't mean I don't recommend this novel for readers who enjoy a warm & fuzzy take on vampire culture. As I said, I was rooting for Ian & Jesse from the start, but didn't enjoy the turn the book took.
May 9, 2019
What happens when your life changes in a blink of an eye.
Ian has a good life. He has a job he enjoyed and best friends he can count on. What he doesn't know is that once he meets Jesse his life will change forever.
Ian is in love with his best friend but finally realizes that he doesn't feel the same so he decides to try to move on. Enter Jesse.
Jesse has lived a long life as a vampire and when he meets Ian that chemistry is instantaneous. They click but Jesse knows that even after a hot night or two together, he can not get attached. Ian is human and Jesse isn't so nothing could come of it so he decides to walk away from him. Ian is hurt but moves on.
Annabelle gives us a story about what would you do if your life changes within a moment. The storyline is one I have read before but I really enjoyed the way she wrote Jesse and Ian. She made the story not only about the two main characters but the friends play a large part as well.
Of course you have your evil character which happens to be the vampire who turned Jesse and can't let him go. We get action when the story is coming to an end but it was definitely worth the ride.
*ARC provided by Annabelle Jacobs in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
Ian has a good life. He has a job he enjoyed and best friends he can count on. What he doesn't know is that once he meets Jesse his life will change forever.
Ian is in love with his best friend but finally realizes that he doesn't feel the same so he decides to try to move on. Enter Jesse.
Jesse has lived a long life as a vampire and when he meets Ian that chemistry is instantaneous. They click but Jesse knows that even after a hot night or two together, he can not get attached. Ian is human and Jesse isn't so nothing could come of it so he decides to walk away from him. Ian is hurt but moves on.
Annabelle gives us a story about what would you do if your life changes within a moment. The storyline is one I have read before but I really enjoyed the way she wrote Jesse and Ian. She made the story not only about the two main characters but the friends play a large part as well.
Of course you have your evil character which happens to be the vampire who turned Jesse and can't let him go. We get action when the story is coming to an end but it was definitely worth the ride.
*ARC provided by Annabelle Jacobs in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
April 26, 2019
Wow, what a great, exciting read. I could not put this book down once I started reading it. Annabelle Jacobs has this way about her and her books that will suck you in and leave you wanting to read the book all in one setting. This book throws several surprises at you through out the book. I loved every minute of it. This is a love story, mystery, thriller, suspenseful, and a book about deception.
Jesse is a vampire. He has been a vampire since he was turned by his sire Peter back in the 1955. Both belong to the same coven u see the ruling of Raph. Some time ago Raph made a pack with the VLCD, a cop division specifically for vampires, that so long as the VLCD helped to keep the Coven with supplies of blood, then they would no longer hunt or kill humans.
Now vampires are not known to humans because of the panic it would cause so therefore the VLCD is not publicly either.
Ian is best friends with Blake and Cate. These three are as close to one another as hey oossibly could be but Ian is in love with Blake for some time but Blake does not return those feelings. After Cate pointing this out to Ian again one night at the bar that Cate works at, Ian meets a man that sparks an interest in him he has not felt for anyone else in a while. This man is none other then Jesse.
After Jesse and Ian hooked up neither can forget the other. And as a result Ian knows that his feelings for Blake were not true feelings. Blake has some news of his own for his two best friends. He has been promoted to the super secret organization that both Blake and Ian heard about when they was younger.
How is Ian going to react when he figures out the man that he is now attracted to is a vampire? Whatnis going to happen when Jesse unknowingly brings danger to Ian’s front door? How will Blake react when he finds out his best friend is “dating” a vampire?
This book is such a great read. There are twist and turns and a lot of action and suspense. I love the whole love story and how everything plays out. I definitely enjoyed this book. I look forward to more by Annabelle Jacobs in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Jesse is a vampire. He has been a vampire since he was turned by his sire Peter back in the 1955. Both belong to the same coven u see the ruling of Raph. Some time ago Raph made a pack with the VLCD, a cop division specifically for vampires, that so long as the VLCD helped to keep the Coven with supplies of blood, then they would no longer hunt or kill humans.
Now vampires are not known to humans because of the panic it would cause so therefore the VLCD is not publicly either.
Ian is best friends with Blake and Cate. These three are as close to one another as hey oossibly could be but Ian is in love with Blake for some time but Blake does not return those feelings. After Cate pointing this out to Ian again one night at the bar that Cate works at, Ian meets a man that sparks an interest in him he has not felt for anyone else in a while. This man is none other then Jesse.
After Jesse and Ian hooked up neither can forget the other. And as a result Ian knows that his feelings for Blake were not true feelings. Blake has some news of his own for his two best friends. He has been promoted to the super secret organization that both Blake and Ian heard about when they was younger.
How is Ian going to react when he figures out the man that he is now attracted to is a vampire? Whatnis going to happen when Jesse unknowingly brings danger to Ian’s front door? How will Blake react when he finds out his best friend is “dating” a vampire?
This book is such a great read. There are twist and turns and a lot of action and suspense. I love the whole love story and how everything plays out. I definitely enjoyed this book. I look forward to more by Annabelle Jacobs in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
April 29, 2019
I liked the characters, but I did not vibe with the pacing of the story. The bad guy was pretty stereotypical for a bad guy, just a general creep. The vampire world was standard and predictable. I did enjoy the chemistry between the two MC's and it their relationship started off quite hot, but then it kind cooled down. The pacing and vibe was bit off during the whole "we gotta get the bad guy" stuff , but it did keep my attention. Only I found myself skipping pages because they came off as unnecessary.
*ARC provided in exchange for honest opinion*
*ARC provided in exchange for honest opinion*
April 29, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Wounded Soul takes an interesting approach to the vampire genre and I think author Annabelle Jacobs does a nice job with the world building here. It doesn’t break entirely new ground, but there are some nice elements here that give the story a fresh quality. The vampires here are unknown to most humans and have an agreement with the Vampire Liaison and Crimes Division that keeps them safe from hunters in exchange for agreeing not to feed on humans. This sets up some nice conflict with those within the coven who feel life is better with these protections and those that chafe under the relatively new rules. I also enjoyed the use of the ensemble cast, including Ian and Jesse’s best friends and Jesse’s coven leader, and I think having them being an active part of solving the crisis the men faced rounded out the story nicely.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Wounded Soul takes an interesting approach to the vampire genre and I think author Annabelle Jacobs does a nice job with the world building here. It doesn’t break entirely new ground, but there are some nice elements here that give the story a fresh quality. The vampires here are unknown to most humans and have an agreement with the Vampire Liaison and Crimes Division that keeps them safe from hunters in exchange for agreeing not to feed on humans. This sets up some nice conflict with those within the coven who feel life is better with these protections and those that chafe under the relatively new rules. I also enjoyed the use of the ensemble cast, including Ian and Jesse’s best friends and Jesse’s coven leader, and I think having them being an active part of solving the crisis the men faced rounded out the story nicely.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
May 8, 2019
3.5
I wanted to love this book badly but even if both the MC are sweet together, the story how it was going on it was not for my liking....
I wanted to love this book badly but even if both the MC are sweet together, the story how it was going on it was not for my liking....
May 28, 2019
2/3**
It started off amazing and so promising but I just gradually lost attention with it :(
It started off amazing and so promising but I just gradually lost attention with it :(
April 21, 2019
It was supposed to be just an one night stand. Ian has been pinning for his best friend and Jesse,having lost all his loved ones in the past,wasn't looking for live,not to mention that one is human and the other one is a vampire. But the connection they feel and the scorching need for each other are too strong to resist.
This book is a high speed course into the world of vampires ,with its laws and rules. I love the main characters. Ian is so sweet and endearing ,and sometimes I just wished I could just hug Jesse to give him courage.
They'll have to overcome dangerous situations, death threats, hoping for their happy ending.
You really have to read Wounded Soul. After all,it's a vampire story written by Annabelle Jacobs and you can't get better than that!
This book is a high speed course into the world of vampires ,with its laws and rules. I love the main characters. Ian is so sweet and endearing ,and sometimes I just wished I could just hug Jesse to give him courage.
They'll have to overcome dangerous situations, death threats, hoping for their happy ending.
You really have to read Wounded Soul. After all,it's a vampire story written by Annabelle Jacobs and you can't get better than that!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2019
A vampire romance done right! I loved this one from start to finish.
Ian and Jesse really did it for me. The angst was great, the pull and banter between them wonderful to read. Of course, something would have to go wrong for our lovebirds, because love never comes easy… As if Ian and Jesse don’t already have enough on their plate, with one of them human and the other definitely not, there is also a villain to contend with. A power-hungry, purist villain as devious and dangerously unhinged as you could wish for. Absolutely gave me the creeps.
As with Annabelle Jacobs’ shifter series, I again really like the almost realistic feel to the world-building as well as the action/crime element in this love story. The uneasy dynamics of the cooperation between the humans (those in the know) and the vampire covens bring an added level of tension to the story and make it about more than just this couple.
The stage has definitely been set for other stories to follow, with the author delivering us an intriguing, perilous world and several well-rounded and likeable secondary characters. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for Cate and Lys, and if Blake could end up falling hard for a vampire too that would be awesome!
Ian and Jesse really did it for me. The angst was great, the pull and banter between them wonderful to read. Of course, something would have to go wrong for our lovebirds, because love never comes easy… As if Ian and Jesse don’t already have enough on their plate, with one of them human and the other definitely not, there is also a villain to contend with. A power-hungry, purist villain as devious and dangerously unhinged as you could wish for. Absolutely gave me the creeps.
As with Annabelle Jacobs’ shifter series, I again really like the almost realistic feel to the world-building as well as the action/crime element in this love story. The uneasy dynamics of the cooperation between the humans (those in the know) and the vampire covens bring an added level of tension to the story and make it about more than just this couple.
The stage has definitely been set for other stories to follow, with the author delivering us an intriguing, perilous world and several well-rounded and likeable secondary characters. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for Cate and Lys, and if Blake could end up falling hard for a vampire too that would be awesome!
June 3, 2019
This book was different for me. I usually don’t love shifter, paranormal, or vampire books. This one tough was definitely worth the read. The main characters are interesting,have good chemistry, and the story was unique and original. Even if you are like me and don’t particularly like vampire stories you will enjoy this book if you like m/m romance. Very enjoyable.
May 1, 2019
3.5*
I don’t know. I really wanted to adore this book, as I love AJ’s wolf shifter stories. But somehow it didn’t really gel for me. I felt there were places where the action seemed a little contrived.
I certainly enjoyed it but I can’t imagine any part of it will linger, and that’s how I generally judge the books I read.
I don’t know. I really wanted to adore this book, as I love AJ’s wolf shifter stories. But somehow it didn’t really gel for me. I felt there were places where the action seemed a little contrived.
I certainly enjoyed it but I can’t imagine any part of it will linger, and that’s how I generally judge the books I read.
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