The Gift

Pleasure Times Four Christmas #2

by Candace Blevins

Pleasure Times Four
Kieran and Gwen are powerful Strigorii vampires who’ve been married over three and a half centuries. Their Master Vampire, Abbott, realizes the couple is on the eve of dissolving their marriage, but no one wants to see their long-time romantic partnership break up. Abbott hopes the gift of a shared blood servant who happens to be a trained bodyguard can solve several problems in one solution. With the coming war so close, he needs to take steps to protect the couple who manage his vast fortune. If the former slave can also help them find common ground and rekindle their romance? Even better.

Ajax was abducted from foster care as a small child and raised as a slave. Chosen for his size, he was forced into hard physical labor to create a huge, intimidating physique. His original Vampire Master had the slave trained to be his personal bodyguard, and Ajax excels at it. When Abbott took over the territory, he tried letting Ajax work for Drake Security, but the werewolf was miserable.

How can a swan possibly fit into this? Arabella’s mother sold her eggs to the traffickers, and the swanling was hatched into slavery. When the Swan Queen took over the crown, she tried to award Arabella her freedom, but it never took. Surprisingly, it’s possible the little swan might be the glue that holds everything together.

Our story starts on one Christmas and ends on the next. A lot can happen in a year.

Genres: Vampires, Paranormal Romance, BDSM, Erotica, Werewolves, Shapeshifters, Paranormal

255 pages, Unknown Binding

Published November 8, 2019

About the author

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Candace Blevins writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, epic fantasy contemporary BDSM romance, and two kick-ass motorcycle club series. She’s published more than fifty books. Candace lives with her husband of twenty-four years and their two teenaged daughters. The family’s beloved, goofy, retired racing greyhounds are usually at her side as she writes, quietly keeping her company. Or sometimes not so quietly.

Her urban fantasy series, Only Human, gives us a world where weredragons, werewolves, werelions, three different species of vampires, and a variety of other mythological beings exist.

Candace's various paranormal romance series are all sister series to the Only Human series, and give some secondary characters their happily ever after.

Her Dark(ish) Faerie Tale series gives us a close-up and personal look at Queen Mab, and her Dark Underbelly series is, as you’d expect, dark and (if you’re a little twisted) oh-so-yummy.

Her contemporary Safeword series gives us characters who happen to have some extreme kinks. Relationships can be difficult enough without throwing power exchange into the mix, and her books show characters who care enough about each other to fight to make the relationship work. Each couple in the Safeword series gives the reader a different take on the lifestyle.

You can visit Candace on the web at candaceblevins.com. Feel free to friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/candacesblevins and Goodreads at goodreads.com/CandaceBlevins. You can also join facebook.com/groups/CandacesKinksters to get sneak peeks into what she's writing now, images that inspire her, and the occasional juicy teaser.

Stay up to date on Candace’s newest releases, and get exclusive excerpts by joining her mailing list at http://bit.ly/cb-new-release.

Only Human series, urban fantasy
• Only Human
• An Unhuman Journey
• Of Humans and Monsters
• Defining Human
• Edge of Humanity
• Infinitely Human
• Unhuman Acts

Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Club
• Duke
• Brain
• Bash Volume I
• Bash Volume II
• Bash Volume III
• Horse
• Gonzo
• Nix
• Ghost
• Bud
• Razor
• Bubbles
• McGyver

The Birmingham RTMC
• Bobcat
• Dementor
• Frost
• Squatch

Cat out of Hell, series, paranormal romance:
• Cat out of Hell Volume I
• Cat out of Hell Volume II
• Cat out of Hell Volume III

The Dark Underbelly of The Chattanooga Supernaturals
• Pride (A short story featuring The Lion King)
• Indentured Freedom: Owned by the Vampire
• Leashed
• An Elegant Weapon

A Dark(ish) Faerie Tale
• Slave
• Lady
• Consort
• Queen

A Paranormal Halloween, paranormal romance
• Hallowed Destiny – Forged by Darkness
• Unhallowed Murder
• Countdown to Murder
• Unholy Murder

Pleasure Times Four Christmas series, ménage/RH paranormal romance
• Unexpected Gifts
• The Gift
• Present Tense
• Imperfect Gifts

Chattanooga Supernaturals series, paranormal romance:
• The Dragon King
• Riding the Storm
• Acceptable Risk
• Careful What You Ask For
• Uncaged
• Cocky Queen

The Safeword series, intense BDSM contemporary romance
• Safeword Rainbow
• Safeword: Davenport
• Safewords: Davenport and Chiffon
• Safeword: Quinacridone
• Safeword: Matte
• Safeword: Matte – In Training
• No Safeword: Matte – The Honeymoon
• No Safeword: Matte – Happily Ever After
• Safeword: Arabesque
• Safeword: Mayday (TBA)

Reviews

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have said this time and time again when I read one of Candace Blevin's books, but, there is a reason she is my go to author for Erotic Paranormal Romance and it's because she is the Queen of the Paranormal Universe and I bow to her Mastery.

This book was a true gift and a pleasure to read. Hotness factor is through the roof with Ajax, Kieran, Gwen, and Arabella.


You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

If everyone is treated the same and there is no knowledge of other ways to live, how does it impact a person? In this erotic novel, we explore more than kinky sex. We explore a growth and awakening of two slaves. The different directions they go is intriguing. And this is why I eagerly look forward to Ms. Blevins' stories. The name of this book can be taken in several different ways. For most people reading the blurb they may consider it as simple as Ajax being the gift to two powerful vampires. For me, it is so much more.

The premise of this story is pretty straight forward. Slave is rescued from cruel master. Slave can't function in the "real" world. Slave finds a happy medium. End of story; happily ever after. What makes this story so good is the emotions Ajax goes through as he finds his new norm. He knows he hated being a slave. He suffered unspeakable acts and he doled out cruel acts at the behest of his master. Ajax is special because he is an Alpha werewolf beaten and trained in submission. The fact that he isn't a basket case is impressive. His entre into the world of being independent didn't work for him. Fortunately, in this magical world Ms. Blevins create, there are other options. Options that could never happen in our world. And this is where I'm hooked. The "what-ifs".

Ms. Blevins takes a problem that we can't seem to solve in the real world. Human problems which is increasingly worrisome in both degree of severity and quantity. She then applies how she would fix it, given a supernatural bent. In this one, it's the tackling of human sex trafficking. How does one recover? Ajax's journey to become a functioning and independent soul is a thing of beauty. Seeing his perspective and the missteps that cause him to regress at times is enlightening and touching. In contrast, his lovely swanling, Arabella finds her place in a totally different way. I'm not sure which former slave my heart bleeds for more. Arabella's existence and how she was raised is horrifying and yet, she is not bitter. The reasons why does make a reader step back and ponder the ramifications of how much information we receive of different people's socio-economic status.

Whilst I enjoy philosophizing Ms. Blevins' unique and creative solutions to social issues, I must also mention I love her brand of kink. This story with sex slaves definitely cranks up the sexual sadism in several scenes. These are balls to the walls sexual edging and forced orgasm which are delicious. With the flexibility of a supernatural world, there is so much more Ms. Blevins can do to her submissives that are dangerous in the real world. I happily lived vicariously through the tantalizing torments. When it comes to erotica sadism, Ms. Blevins is the Queen.

For me, this story is about the gift of childhood, the gift of purpose and the gift of family. All things I treasure. This erotic paranormal novel is highly recommended to readers who enjoy character building, kinky sex and warm fuzzies.

*I received an advanced copy

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can always count on Candace’s imagination to take us places we never thought we would go. Vampire’s, Werewolves and Swans … oh my! But, believe it or not, it worked. Kieran was always jealous of Gwen’s male companions. After 300 years together, they are afraid that it may be the end of their marriage. Leave it to Abbott to find a solution that could work for both of them.

Ajax needed to serve a master. Working for Drake Security just didn’t sit right with him. He was gifted to Kieran and Gwen to be both bodyguard and blood servant. He didn’t understand the dynamics between the two of them but knew that they were important to Abbott. He would serve and service them … he would fight for them … he would die for them. When the time comes that he may have to do just that, Abbott will not allow him to leave Gwen and it ends up being him and an unexpected Swan that saves Kieran’s life. Now, they are bound together in a way that no one saw coming. Will Ajax, Kieran, Gwen and Arabella be able to find a happy medium? Will they be able to forge a relationship between the four of them? Ajax knows that he can satisfy Kieran and Gwen … will he be able to give Arabella what she needs as well?

I enjoyed the interactions between all the characters in this story. They all seemed to fit together. Candace did a wonderful job in meshing the four characters, in helping us understand their pasts and why they they needed what they needed. There was definitely a HEA … was there love? Yes, in their own way, they all loved one another. And, you cannot take away her way of writing erotic scenes. They are descriptive but important in telling the story, in learning what they need to be satisfied and to bind them together. I always look forward to one of Candace Blevins stories because I know I will not be disappointed in the storyline, the characters or the outcome.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Jeanny · Rating 2 out of 5]

The war was won (we knew this) the Abbott is relocating to Alaska (again knew this) & he’s taking this foursome with him. &.... 😐

2 ICBA stars. 🤷🏻‍♀️

ICBA = I cant be arsed

[Eva Millien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kieran and Gwen have been married for over three a half centuries, but they are having problems and in an attempt to keep them dissolving the marriage, Abbott gives them the gift of a shared blood servant who happens to be a trained bodyguard. Raised as a slave, Ajax excels at being a bodyguard, but his werewolf was miserable working for Drake Security. Arabella is a swan that was hatched into slaver but when the Swan Queen tried to award her with freedom, it didn’t take. This story starts on one Christmas and ends on the next.

This foursome romance is a passionate and emotionally gripping read that shares insights in the making of an unorthodox family that includes two vampires, a wolf shifter and a swan. The chemistry that flows between these characters sizzle with heat and passion and the relationship is full of some scorching hot intimacy of varying types of interaction. If readers are not into reading about kinky, bdsm scenes, then this book is not for them, but for others it is a steamy, emotional read with two heroines and two heroes that easily draw readers into their story and refuse to let go and by the end readers have really gotten to know these characters and what makes them tick.

The plot is steady paced and covers a full year of suspenseful and emotionally turbulent day to day events that would take place in the making of this kind of family including supernatural politics that have to be considered. The story also some suspenseful and exciting events as readers get the highlights from the supernatural war from this foursome’s point of view. Readers definitely find that once they begin…they definitely don’t want to put this book down until they have read every last page.

[Book Dragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating: delicious 4,5 stars.
Ms. Candace surprised us again with a brilliant story. The title is very fitting on many sides, not just the obvious one.
We get to know much more about vampire politics and how things are managed in the back. We knew a lot from previous books but this one is up-close with more details, interaction, dynamics and power exchange.
The plot is pretty direct with an ex-slave given to a vampire pair and due to the circumstances, another ex-slave Arabella joins them. It was amazing to see so many layers of Ajax, revealing them one by one was fascinating. I'm not sure I liked more his serving side or dominating one. His growth and development were fascinating and Ms. Blevins does a wonderful job revealing his emotions, psyche, and struggles through becoming his own person again and finding his place. His past is tragic and I was amazed by how he managed to come out being the whole person. When he connects with Arabella it is clear that the union between 4 of them is complete.
The battle that is ongoing at the time is epic and for those who want to know more, it is mandatory to read Unhuman Acts.
The kink in the book is creative with the different dynamics and a good portion of sadism. I always love Ms. Blevins's scenes and those also didn't disappoint. They were unique and intense with a lot of power exchange.
In the end, this story is about growth, belonging and finding family. It is actually quite sweet.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

https://bookaddict.net/2019/11/07/the...

[Jaycee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like Kieran and Gwen are old friends, introduced way back in the very beginning of book one of the Only Human series as a couple requiring the very special marriage counselling skills of Kirsten O'Shea: psychologist and ass-kicker extraordinaire. The two just happened to be vampires.

Fast-forward, and their very own story finds them in pretty much the same place they were when in Kirsten's office Through some hard work, guided by the inestimable Abbott, and allowing themselves to become open to mental, emotional and physical gifts from Ajax and Arabella, they find all that sustains them.

But this book is less about relationship per se, and more about how four individuals - supernatural nature notwithstanding - came into themselves such that they could give *of* themselves to another. Or in this case, to others.

Of course, the supernatural setting always amps up the world and the behaviours inherent in such a world, and adds dimension to the dynamic. In getting to that point, the evolution of Kieran and Ajax resonated with me more - or maybe more accurately - on a deeper level than did that of Gwen or Arabella. I couldn't help but feel that neither lady, but particularly Gwen, added as much depth to the ultimate outcome of the total relationship as the men did. That said, Arabella certainly overcame personally on a greater scale than the other three combined.

As a huge fan of the Only Human series I also appreciated seeing the battle for the soul of this world as we know it through the eyes of some of the non-combatants. It will be interesting to see what role, if any, these characters have in a post-battle world. A world that is now minus two of its anchors.

[Leslie OBrien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candace Blevins does it again with her holiday offering of “The Gift.” Kieran and Gwen are at odds with each other. After more than three centuries of marriage, dissolution might well be the next stage in their relationship. Leave it to Abbott to come up with the perfect gift to keep this great couple together. But…it wouldn’t be a Candace Blevins book without such amazing characters. Likes: Where to begin. Since the beginning, what has attracted me to Ms. Blevins books are her characters. The personalities and level of detail that goes in to each character is what keeps me tapping those pages. In “The Gift”, you can feel the age of the vampires and while regular readers of her books will get a general overview of the power structures across species and within them, watching Gwen and Kieran as they navigate the shifts in power dynamics within their own relationship was intriguing. With Ajax, given his background, he comes across with a strong ability to detach (rightly so) and that too slowly transitions as the relationships grow and everyone bonds. And then there’s Arabella. I have so many questions about her and it’s all good. And of course, this story fits within the timeline of the last book in the Only Human series, so you get to read/see a different perspective of what’s going on with the big battle. If you love great PNRs with strong characters and a compelling plot, then dive into this book. It might just get you feeling Christmassy. Sort of. And I will admit to feeling a bit sniffly at the end.

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kieran and Gwen will always hold that special place in my heart because of their connection at the start of Kirsten’s story. It was a joy to see them have their own story, and to get to see Abbott as a good guy, looking out for his people. Finding out how deep the bond between the two Irish vampires went, and how well they treated each other, and Ajax, and then Arabella, made for a compelling story. Of course, they are vampires, so they both have a touch of the sadistic streak, but they have depth of emotions as well. They are far from perfect, and the insight into their psyche provided so much depth to them as characters, and to the story

Ajax was wonderful, and I couldn’t get enough of him. His strength, his heart, his caring, and his internal conflict and awareness. He was an all-around likable character, trying to find his way, and balancing his thoughts and needs. Kieran and Gwen both feed a part of him, and everything seems to be developing well, but something seems to be missing and holding him back. Once Arabella enters the picture, as unplanned as it all was, his soul settles. The foursome blends and mixes expertly, and all the needs, of all four, are met. The things they all bring to the table make them connect with each other, separately, or together, in the variations of their numbers, in and out of, the bedroom. The final chapter, where are the feelings are explained, was perfection!

[Pat Orendorff · Rating 5 out of 5]

We met Kieran and Gwen previously when they met with the marriage counsler, Kirsten O'Shea our heroine from the Only Human series.
Master Abbott inherited Ajax when he took over another territory where the Master of the area had mostly slaves.
Other opportunies didn't work out since Ajax needed to be with someone he could take care of so Abbott gifted him to the couple to be a shared bloodservant hoping to bring them together since feeding vampires usually included sex and closeness.
An issue cropped up when Kieran treated him as a sex slave even while he was working as the head of his security. Fortunately Ajax was able to make sure that someone could help him to get the issue resolved, a huge step for a fomer slave.
Now we're treated to hot and wild erotic sex scenes with power exchange and enough variety to satisfy anyone.
We've heard of the power of three and how it's three cubed to equal the power of twenty seven and in an emergency Arabella becomes one the three to save a life. And so it became the power of three plus one and an attachment between them began.
I'm a sucker for a good love story and this one satisfied my sweet tooth with lots of steam as well. I read it twice and will read it again to make sure that I didn't miss any nuances since so much action was included.
Once again Ms. Blevins gave me a book with fully developed characters to get involved with and care about and I loved it.

[Daria · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG... Candace Delivered! The Gift! I really try to stay away from the sappy Chritmasy themed stories they tend to be cookie cutters.

Candace Blevins did know cookie cutting and reaffirmed why she is a go-to author. So very talented and keeps putting books out worthy of your time.

Watching Ajax grow was heartfelt and endearing, you will fall in love with Gwen and Keiren watching their personalities shift just a bit to fit the theme worked so well. Arabella you're going to want to pack cotton around her and put her on your shelf, she is adorable.
Those are the main characters each with a unique personality that meshes into the story. There were a couple of places that were a wee bit slow for me, its all about the detail because without the detail there isn't a story.

Abbott and the Swan King their parts were significant as ruling heads and the decisions they needed to make for the ones under their protection. I liked visiting the RMTC again and Seeing Kendra and yes even Gavin a short bit. *smiles* the hot scenes wonderfully written, the power dynamics clicked. Emotions were all over the place and as Abbot mentioned about coming full circle, powerful indeed. Enjoy.

[Gab · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a walk down memory lane.
First the diminutive couple I remember sitting in Kirstens office long ago. Their problem still isn't solved, but Abbott takes it upon himself to solve it for them. With a unique present. A former slave, a wolf reared as bodyguard, to protect them, to feed them, and hopefully bring them together again.
While following the change in their dynamic, the whole supernatural world of Chattanooga unfolds around them. From Abbott and the Coterie to the RTMC, the wolf pack, The Dragon King and the Swan Queen, and what happened behind and under the scenes during the last battle, that was ultimately won, but brought about many painful losses and profound changes.
While the world around them is changing, so is the bond between the two vampires and their protector. And when an unforeseen emergency brings another member into their union, the dynamic changes again.
Ms Blevins does the interaction between Vampires and their companions like nobody else. So you get another deeply, sensuously moving piece of her supernatural world, and a Christmas story with bite and claws, changing body parts, and love, and most important, family and belonging.

[Evita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait and dig in to this story, a vampire couple, a werewolf and a swan, would they all make it work. I shouldn’t have worried because Candace has a way of being able to explain the hows and they whys.

The vampire couple is Kieran and Gwen who are having marital problems, Abbott gifts them Ajax as their blood servant and bodyguard, and he hopes that he can be much more to the couple. As the big approaches, Arabella surprisingly comes in at a point that she is very much needed.

Throughout the story we learn backstories from Ajax and Arabella, and are very heartbreaking. However, that’s all they’ve known, so to them it’s a normal life. As the four get to know each other, they each come to the conclusion that what they’ve been missing is being and belonging as a family

The story is so moving on so many levels, it touches on the power exchange and how they all deal with it. It brought out so many emotions as well, especially between Ajax and Arabella. I wish I could have just continued reading their story, that’s one of the best things about Candace’s writing, you never want it to end.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Titania · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ajax is free but struggling. Kieran and Gwen can't find a middle ground. Can Abbot helped them all?

I enjoyed this story by Candace Blevins. There was the first blush of love but not quite. There was a marriage falling apart but not for lack of love. I enjoyed seeing if Ajax could help save a marriage. I love seeing Ajax learn what he needs and wants. I loved seeing him find his footing as he moves beyond his past.
For all their age, Kieran and Gwen are struggling with their differing needs. Can Kieran and Gwen move beyond jealousy? I enjoyed seeing Ajax fill in some of the cracks but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Arabella complete them all...together and apart. But will she be enough?
This story is full of ups and downs. The emotions were real and sometimes ugly. But Ms. Blevins tackled the differing needs of each character wonderfully. I loved seeing the relationships grow into something unique and special. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and getting to know these characters and look forward to where Ms. Blevins will take us next in this world she has created.

[Tanja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a real gem to read, Candace didn't disappoint !!!
When there is a break up on a horizont, trust our good old (LOL) vampire Abbott to solve things in his own way - "just do as I tell you, no questions asked !!! " I feel like we need to start a hashtag for these series #AbbottKnowsBest :) or #JustDoWhatAbbottSaid

Can two vampires make it work after soo long even with their own way of balance or will an addition to their little household help ? how about two additions ??? The more the merrier ...
I thing to talk about this book without giving away much (spoilers concerning the Only Human series if you are reading it !!!!!) is this

--- variety is the spice of life ---

and this book will prove it, beyond the shadow of the doubt. and I have to say I loved every minute of it. and just when you think Candace has gone all mushy on us, there is kicking ass, and sex scenes that are (by now) one of Candace most know trademarks !!! so buckle up, cause this will take you for an intense ride and you will be back for more

[Heart5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second Christmas offering from Candace Blevins and a solid five star story. This story lines up with the time line in Unhuman Acts, so we get to see the major battle from a different viewpoint. This story feature Gwen and Kieran, vampires that have been linked for centuries, Ajax a recently freed werewolf slave, and Arabella a swan raised under the abusive Swan King.

This is definitely a different take on a Christmas story. Just the tiniest bit of feel good Christmas story, while the rest is a fairly action packed kinky romance. The story is definitely good, and I really liked seeing a different side of the major battle. Kieran and Gwen seemed somewhat cold, being vampires I guess that's normal, but I loved the passion that first Ajax, and then even more Arabella bring to their home. The check in with older characters was nice and I liked what I hope was a preview of things to come. Plus, I really like a little Christmas sap, so the Christmas scene was a perfect ending to the story.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Sharon Starr · Rating 5 out of 5]

In case you have a delicate soul, be aware that Ms. Blevins writes very hot sexual scenes with lots of creative variety. For whatever reason (probably having to do with the fabulous Ajax on the cover) it escaped me that this book also features vampire couple Gwen and Kieran. I was delighted as I already had met this couple on the pages of “Only Human”. Was immediately content knowing I would learn more about this couple found in the amazing world Candace Blevins created. I do think this would work well as a stand-alone read, but is all the richer if you follow the series.
And do I ever adore Ajax!! Best. Gift. Ever. The storytelling bounces from the viewpoint of one character to another....and while sometimes that can be distracting....in this story I liked seeing how the same situation would be viewed from a very different perspective. This author includes vivid descriptions in her storytelling, including smaller details it wouldn’t even occur to me to think about. This book is an excellent addition to her universe.

[Annette Cousins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candace Blevins delivers another masterpiece.
Kieran and Gwen's marriage is on the rocks. But Master vampire steps in with a gift hoping to help heal the rift with a gift. The gift is Ajax.
From the start i couldnt put the story down. To me this story is not just about saving a marriage, its a journey of self discovery, of finding ones self,learning tolerance and recognising others need. Plus the most important part love.
The struggles each character goes through touch your heart. Candace writes so exceptionally, that you are drawn in and feel the emotions they feel.
Its gripping, exciting, emotional and places sad. The love they share seems complete, but something is missing. Arabella is their saving Grace, but they are hers too.
There is so many undercurrents in the story, I couldn't put it down till I was finished. I put the book down with the biggest smile my heart full. Then started the story again.
Love love loved it.
Thank you Ms Blevins.

[Virginia Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say when start this book was not sure what to except. but oh boy needed the fan going sometimes in this book. Who cant love little mix of vampires and wolves. Ajax has a need that trying to find that one Master to serve to meet his needs. But maybe he was of need of Master & Mistress to tame the wolf. You see the journey these 3 make and up and downs in their relationship. The final piece maybe in the form of a Swam when Arabella is given to them by her Queen. The characters all balance each other out with their own needs and desire. If you want to read hot and steamy book and shifters and vampires oh my. I highly recommend this book

[Helen Wawrejko · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas gift of a freed werewolf to a vampire couple brings a disintegrating marriage back from the brink. Ajax needs to belong to a family after being a slave his entire life. A bodyguard, lover, and loved. This Christmas story had erotica and an intense story of finding self confidence in being your own person. Another fine erotica story from this prolific writer. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gift asks the question what constitutes freedom? Are we ever free from our past? What is the greatest gift to a slave? For Ajax freedom means being in control of his mind and gaining control of his wolf. For Arabella it means having someone care for her in every way. For Kieran and Gwen it means keeping their marriage strong even after 350 years. But the greatest gift any of them can receive is the gift of family. This is a sweet and kinky tale that will leave you with a holiday glow.

[Milena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story. If you follow this world you need to read this book and if you don't you still need to read this book. I loved seeing Gwen & Kieran again since I've always wondered about them since we first saw them in Only Human. This world that Candace has created with all these wonderful characters will pull you in and keep on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend this book and all her other books too!

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always an auto download for me, Candace Blevins once again pulls me in with her story about Ajax, Kieran, Gwen and Arabella! Learning to live, move beyond, and revel in life after adversity, the journey of this group’s relationship is beautiful as it unfolds. Of course, with some hot spice thrown in as well! This story truly is a Gift that will keep you warm for the holidays!

[Kathleen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gift

Well I've never wished so hard for to be a part of group of characters as much to be a part this world Candace Blevins created. I'm not sure where she is going with them next but I hope they all will be around for a long time.
Ajax story was a good Christmas story ( The Gift ). Which entailed Werewolf, 2 Vampires and a Swan with end of world battle thrown in. Also other favorite characters in to help Ajax along his journey. I hope you enjoy as much as I have.

[Tawnya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the story and was in need of some super natural romance. However, I wished I realized before that I started that it was a part of a larger group of books.

It wasn’t that I couldn’t enjoy it, but I have this annoying need to read a series in order. And sometimes it makes it really hard to go backwards.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Candace Blevins’ PNR books so much and The Gift was no exception! Kieran, Gwen, Ajax and Arabella are meant for each other. I loved having so many of my other favorites show up as well. I couldn’t put it down.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kieran and Gwen are powerful Strigorii vampires who are married for 3 century. There marriage is on the rocks and then an unexpected change happens one swan shifter and a wolf shifter enters into the situation. This book is full of intense emotions the chemistry between all 4 characters will have you so invested into there future. I really enjoyed how this story unfolds. No spoilers here grab a copy and enjoy

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than a Christmas story.

The story starts at Christmas and progresses over the period of a year. It is a story of growth, love, family, and belonging. From the depths of despair, a strong familial bond emerges among an unlikely quartet. An uplifting story.

[Mei · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly more tame than I imagined from this author. I’ve been on this authors mailing list for a while and for some reason I thought it would be more hot and sexy than it was. I found The Gift was more of a sweet and wonderful story.

[debra archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A maz ing

This book. What a great read

We get to see two former slaves paired with a strong vampire couple who thought their marriage was over.

Enjoy four different personalities coming together. Learning how to live and love again.