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First Fangs Club #3
Sucker Punch
Newly appointed vampire governor of New Jersey, Belladonna Barrone is fast discovering that life as a vampire isn’t much easier than life as a mobster’s wife. But that experience certainly taught her some things about how to handle the problems that come with being governor. That is until a friend is kidnapped by the fae and his life put in danger, all because of her actions.
Figuring out how to save him feels very much above her paygrade, but she’s the boss and the decision about how to handle this potentially deadly situation is completely up to her. With the clock ticking, she has no choice but to attempt a rescue.
Thankfully, she has the help of her team and some impressive new friends. But going to battle with the fae has painfully real consequences and the outcome of their mission leaves them all reeling. While dealing with the fallout from the fight, Donna once again becomes the target of a jealous vampire rival, which puts her future in question. Somehow, she has to find the strength to keep going and overcome these new attacks.
But there’s only so much a woman can handle. Or is there? With new resolve, Donna knows her only option is to fight back. Who else is going to protect her family and friends? She’s never been one to run from her problems.
Even when her problems feel like a supernatural sucker punch.
Figuring out how to save him feels very much above her paygrade, but she’s the boss and the decision about how to handle this potentially deadly situation is completely up to her. With the clock ticking, she has no choice but to attempt a rescue.
Thankfully, she has the help of her team and some impressive new friends. But going to battle with the fae has painfully real consequences and the outcome of their mission leaves them all reeling. While dealing with the fallout from the fight, Donna once again becomes the target of a jealous vampire rival, which puts her future in question. Somehow, she has to find the strength to keep going and overcome these new attacks.
But there’s only so much a woman can handle. Or is there? With new resolve, Donna knows her only option is to fight back. Who else is going to protect her family and friends? She’s never been one to run from her problems.
Even when her problems feel like a supernatural sucker punch.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2020
383 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
186 books3,368 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
November 6, 2020
Sucker Punch by Kristen Painter
3rd book in the First Fangs Club. Paranormal women’s fiction. Best read as part of the series.
Donna was turned into a vampire just a short two weeks ago. Already she’s the Governor of New Jersey and leading a raid on the fae in Central Park. With an entourage of witches, wolves, reapers, a gargoyle and more, Donna and her newly created team set out to rescue Rico and destroy the fae that kidnapped him.
Entertaining. A vampire that values loyalty and friendship. She experiences her first kill with intent and isn’t sure how to deal with that. Surprising twists with her sister nun, tells Donna to put it aside in the moment of battle and remember the mission is to rescue Rico.
I enjoyed the changes and enrichment of the sister’s role.
Low to mid range vampire story on the horror scale. Not all sweetness and humor, but more professional business mom taking care of what’s needed.
3rd book in the First Fangs Club. Paranormal women’s fiction. Best read as part of the series.
Donna was turned into a vampire just a short two weeks ago. Already she’s the Governor of New Jersey and leading a raid on the fae in Central Park. With an entourage of witches, wolves, reapers, a gargoyle and more, Donna and her newly created team set out to rescue Rico and destroy the fae that kidnapped him.
Entertaining. A vampire that values loyalty and friendship. She experiences her first kill with intent and isn’t sure how to deal with that. Surprising twists with her sister nun, tells Donna to put it aside in the moment of battle and remember the mission is to rescue Rico.
I enjoyed the changes and enrichment of the sister’s role.
Low to mid range vampire story on the horror scale. Not all sweetness and humor, but more professional business mom taking care of what’s needed.
August 29, 2021
Didn't read first 3 books but still understood book
Sucker Punch
By Kristen Painter
This is a character driven book but has a good plot. Vampires, fae, and many other shifters, witches and the like are all in here. Terrific characters, family like feelings between species, fighting an evil and corrupt character. Very enjoyable read.
Sucker Punch
By Kristen Painter
This is a character driven book but has a good plot. Vampires, fae, and many other shifters, witches and the like are all in here. Terrific characters, family like feelings between species, fighting an evil and corrupt character. Very enjoyable read.
November 4, 2020
As the Third book in the First Fangs Club series, it cam in with a Punch!! The 2nd ended with quite a cliffhanger, as Rico the FBI agent and werewolf friend to Donna Barrone, the new vampire governor of New Jersey, was kidnapped by the fae king.
Donna quickly goes into action and assembles a kick-butt supernatural team that will storm the fae stronghold and get Rico back. Vampires, Werewolves, demi-gods, witches, fae, gargoyles, and a totally awesome vampire-hunter nun, plus so many more. This was such a fun combination of characters, also that it takes place in a contemporary setting, using places in New York and New Jersey.
This series is so much different than Kristen Painter's other books I've read, and I absolutely love it!!! There are so many twists and turns in it and a big surprise at the end. Donna is amazing as a former mob wife, now vampire governor, who is embracing her new role, kicking butt, taking names, and leading with compassion at the same time.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who wants to see a different type of vampire novel that's not full of teenage angst or sparkly vamps.
Donna quickly goes into action and assembles a kick-butt supernatural team that will storm the fae stronghold and get Rico back. Vampires, Werewolves, demi-gods, witches, fae, gargoyles, and a totally awesome vampire-hunter nun, plus so many more. This was such a fun combination of characters, also that it takes place in a contemporary setting, using places in New York and New Jersey.
This series is so much different than Kristen Painter's other books I've read, and I absolutely love it!!! There are so many twists and turns in it and a big surprise at the end. Donna is amazing as a former mob wife, now vampire governor, who is embracing her new role, kicking butt, taking names, and leading with compassion at the same time.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who wants to see a different type of vampire novel that's not full of teenage angst or sparkly vamps.
July 23, 2021
I finished Sucker Punch a few days ago. So far, this First Fangs Club series has been fun to read. It's an actual relief to be able to speedily lose myself in and enjoy these installments. I can't wait for book #4.
4 stars
4 stars
December 28, 2020
Love it & Can't wait for book 4
January 15, 2021
Books one, two and three were wonderful, now I have to wait for book four. Phooey.
November 6, 2020
This book is part of the Paranormal Women’s Fiction Romance group (PWF). The books in the PWF are all strong female lead characters and the female lead is middle age, mostly over 40 years old. I have to admit that I love reading a book with a strong female lead but loving it more when the character is middle age. This is the third book in the First Fangs Club series written by Kristen Painter I would advise you to read the three books in order since the all pick up where the previous book ended. Belladonna Barrone is trying to adjust being a vampire and not just a vampire but the newly appointed vampire governer of New Jersey. Since being thrown into the job she has come up with one issue after another. This time she has to help rescue the FBI agent, also a wolf shifter after he was taken by the Fae. I seriously love this series and can’t wait to get the next one and this one is no different, the ending is like OMG, WTF! The ending of this book really got me I was totally shocked how it ended and seriously can’t wait for the next book to come out. This is one of the best series that I have read.
November 7, 2020
Hold onto your hats everyone you’re in for a wild ride. Donna is amazing as per usual and I loved her more and more in this one. Big heart eyes with this book, but be prepared for the ride too. I don’t want to give too much away because you seriously need to have this book and series in your life but wow.
January 30, 2024
Loved the cliffhanger ending!
January 21, 2021
I definitely need book 4 now!
Semi-quick recap:
She discovered her nun sister is actually a vampire & demon hunter for the church, her and her friends mounted a rescue of Rico (her FBI werewolf friend) from the fae, watched the fae king kill the vampire queen (her grandsire), killed the fae king herself, sired her first vampire by turning a leather-making iron smith in order to save his life after the battle, formed a tentative treaty with the new fae king, found out her college daughter who’s home visiting is pregnant and planning to get married, and then her long lost father shows up at the door as an emissary for the Prime (the oldest vampire) and needs to talk to her about her candidacy for the role of the new vampire queen. The story ends with her answering the door to find her father standing there acting like he doesn’t know who she is, though I think she was only 13 when he left, so it’s possible he might not if her last name isn’t the same. Oh, and the NY vampire governor (Fitz) has filed two suits against her—one against her for the death of the queen and another against Pierce (her assistant) for punching him at a party when he was drunk and slandering her openly. And she was about to release a statement to let everyone know she’s a daywalker. So much happened! The first book seemed fairly simple, but the story has really grown and I’m rather enjoying the characters.
Semi-quick recap:
She discovered her nun sister is actually a vampire & demon hunter for the church, her and her friends mounted a rescue of Rico (her FBI werewolf friend) from the fae, watched the fae king kill the vampire queen (her grandsire), killed the fae king herself, sired her first vampire by turning a leather-making iron smith in order to save his life after the battle, formed a tentative treaty with the new fae king, found out her college daughter who’s home visiting is pregnant and planning to get married, and then her long lost father shows up at the door as an emissary for the Prime (the oldest vampire) and needs to talk to her about her candidacy for the role of the new vampire queen. The story ends with her answering the door to find her father standing there acting like he doesn’t know who she is, though I think she was only 13 when he left, so it’s possible he might not if her last name isn’t the same. Oh, and the NY vampire governor (Fitz) has filed two suits against her—one against her for the death of the queen and another against Pierce (her assistant) for punching him at a party when he was drunk and slandering her openly. And she was about to release a statement to let everyone know she’s a daywalker. So much happened! The first book seemed fairly simple, but the story has really grown and I’m rather enjoying the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2022
Not relatable
Having read the first two books in this series, I think I’ve figured out the biggest reason for what troubles me about this series and that is that pretty much everything comes too easily for our heroine, Donna.
In book one, she’s bitten, becomes a vampire, and bam, less than two weeks after being turned she’s the Vampire Governor of New Jersey. In book two, she settles into the job and has a run-in with the Vampire Governor of New York. In book three, she leads a quasi-military operation to save a friend from the King of the Fae and wields a sword with Ninja-like skills. All of this with an enviable support staff and interminable descriptions of fabulous food and clothing. I really, REALLY do not need to know what everybody is eating.
If she adjusted quickly to being a vampire, it can be said she adopted her Governors role with lightening speed. I know this isn’t weighty fiction, but it would be nice if there was a little more internal tension for the main character. She makes being a vampire look like a dream job and I find her character not very relatable.
On the plus side there is plenty of dialog, even though much of it is about mundane things, the pacing is good and the characters are generally likable.
Having read the first two books in this series, I think I’ve figured out the biggest reason for what troubles me about this series and that is that pretty much everything comes too easily for our heroine, Donna.
In book one, she’s bitten, becomes a vampire, and bam, less than two weeks after being turned she’s the Vampire Governor of New Jersey. In book two, she settles into the job and has a run-in with the Vampire Governor of New York. In book three, she leads a quasi-military operation to save a friend from the King of the Fae and wields a sword with Ninja-like skills. All of this with an enviable support staff and interminable descriptions of fabulous food and clothing. I really, REALLY do not need to know what everybody is eating.
If she adjusted quickly to being a vampire, it can be said she adopted her Governors role with lightening speed. I know this isn’t weighty fiction, but it would be nice if there was a little more internal tension for the main character. She makes being a vampire look like a dream job and I find her character not very relatable.
On the plus side there is plenty of dialog, even though much of it is about mundane things, the pacing is good and the characters are generally likable.
March 20, 2024
Third in the First Fangs Club paranormal fantasy series and revolving around a new vampire who fell into the job as governor of New Jersey. The focus is on Rico’s kidnapping by the fae.
My Take
Well, you know the New York pack has smarts — they hate Fitzhugh right along with the New Jersey pack.
Whoaaa, Donna learns the truth about Sister Cammie’s activities at the convent! Who’d’ve thunk!?!? Still, Cammie has Donna’s back. Then there’s Neo’s hobbies — Skynet 2020 sounds quite useful.
Hmmm, who knew a vampire could be blessed by the pope? Seems like Donna might be blessed in other ways when she’s attracted to Kace.
I like Donna’s comment: “Being kind did not make a person weak.”
I love that Donna finds so many aspects of her awful past that are coming in handy in her new role as governor. She does make a point of noting the differences between her social-climbing, suck-up past with other mobster wives and the freedom of her current “life”. And we learn all this through third person protagonist point-of-view from Donna’s perspective, so we know what she experiences, visually, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Donna and Pierce both confess the truth about their feelings, and there's such drama about it.
There are lots of reveals about Claudette, the former governor, and her achievements as governor. There are still lousy governors out there — and Fitzhugh is THE WORST.
Hmm, William Ferris went from two daughters to three.
Nemo. Hmm, I like it. Charlie suggests it as a nickname for that cute couple.
Kidnapping, battle against the fae, poisoning, exile, charges for assault against Pierce (a human!!), a yummy addiction, the store of sweets (ah, to be a vampire who can eat, lol), and the supportive cast of characters keeps the action flowing with devastating reveals. As for the ending cliffhanger . . . wow.
Yep, part of what I love about this cozy series is how kind Donna is, how she considers how to genuinely help those she governs, well, and everyone else. Look at how she helped Meghan salvage her career! Don't you wish more politicians were like this?? Talk about a fantasy, *laughing*.
The Story
There's no choice but for the vampires to go to war against the fae, if they want to rescue Special Agent Rico and save Rixaline. But if they do, there's a religious order threatening to kill all vampires and fae, especially Donna.
Then Donna is poisoned . . . with emotion and Fitzhugh responds with a selfish attack.
The Characters
Belladonna “Donna” Barrone, a day-walking vampire, is the New Jersey vampire governor, after having been a mobster’s wife. She lives in the penthouse of the Wellman Towers with Lucky, her cat. Her son, Lieutenant Joe, Jr, is in the Air Force. Her daughter, the newly pregnant Christina, is attending college. The father-to-be, Noah Miller, is working on his master’s in hospitality management. Camille “Cammie”, a.k.a. Sister Mary Lazarus Immaculata, is her sister and currently in Nicaragua on a mission. Her new job will be as a demon remover. Donna and Cammie’s dad took off when the girls were in their early teens. Joe Barrone had been her mobster husband, who had supposedly died. Their mother, Rosa, a devout Sicilian Catholic, turned her back on Donna. Noah’s father owns a barbecue restaurant, Big Dog’s. and is also the mayor of Timberville, Indiana.
Pierce Harrison is Donna's personal assistant and life-saving attorney. Charlene “Charlie” Rollins is her administrative assistant. Temo Danielson, former Special Ops and a demigod, is her driver and head of security. Penina is Temo’s cousin and part-time security. Jerabeth Smalls, an elemental witch, is in charge of the governor’s greenhouse. Dr Fox, a gnome, is the governor's personal doctor.
Rixaline is a teenage dhamfir who got sanctuary from Belladonna in Suck It Up Buttercup , 2, can find anything. She was told that Rix, a palace guard, was her father. Her mother had been Brielle.
The First Fangs Club is . . .
. . . a support group for new vampires. Francine, an elderly, unstoppable matriarch you can’t help but love, had thrown a party for Donna. Lionel is Francine’s roommate/sire/boyfriend who turned her. Neo is a younger, street-wise computer programmer, who is stepping up to help with Donna’s security — and falling for Temo. Bunni is a ditzy blonde who wants revenge on her boyfriend. Meghan Murphy is a supermodel sired by Claudette. LaToya is a single mom. Dr Ursula Goldberg, who had been Donna’s therapist when Donna had been human, is the empathic psychologist who runs the club.
The New Jersey Pack of . . .
. . . wolves is led by Louisa Valentina “LV” Medina, their alpha. She’s also Rico’s grandmother. Maria “Toni” Antonella is the alpha-elect and his mother. And are they angry!
The Mobsters
Big Tony is the big boss. Lucinda, Donna’s former sister-in-law, is a major pain and Big Tony's wife.
Alvaro owns a bodega. Kace Donovan, a gargoyle, is one of Donna’s neighbors and has also worked temporary security for the New Jersey governor.
The Sisters of the Holy Rosary is . . .
. . . one of the specialized convents who train and deploy vampire hunters. A Venari is an ancient order of nuns and priests trained in the art of killing any supernatural that goes rogue.
The vampires
Hawke Fitzhugh, a power-hungry vampire, is the governor of New York and lives in Montevetro, an Upper East Side version of Donna’s building. Other governors include Joseph of Idaho and Kitka of Alaska. Astrid is thought to be a legend about an unkillable Viking shield maiden.
Queen Artemis, a pacifist, rules the vampires, and she’s Donna’s “grandmother”. Her home base is Lebanon, Kansas. Marcus is Artemis’ deputy. The Immortus Concilio rules the entire vampire nation with the Prime, the oldest known vampire in existence, as its leader. Richard D’Angelo is an emissary for the Prime. Claudette Martine had been the governor in Sucks To Be Me , 1, and Donna’s sire.
The FBI
Special Agent Rico Medina, a stand-up guy, has been Belladonna’s handler.
The Fae
The terrible King Dredward rules the fae. Their castle is in Central Park and heavily disguised. Ishalan is a fae, trained as a sacarado, a priest of ancient texts and a giver of blessings and curses, who has been tossed out due to disagreeing with too many other fae. Dr Ritter treated Ishalan.
Ferris & Coven, a family-owned business — a father, William Ferris (he’s half reaper), and his daughters, Harper, a potion maker, Daisy, a necromancer, and Reggie, whose fiancé, Abraham, was killed by the fae, who are all witches — do custom leatherwork. An FTS is a fairy-tale shifter, things not considered real by humans. Miriam Pasternak owns Beautiful Buds, a flower shop.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a good blend of gloomy and cheerful, just like the story. A blurred royal blue battle scene at the top is reflected in the bottle of elixir in front of the nicely carved tombstone with its scroll-like top that holds the title with its fancy engraved font. The stone itself is framed by ivy and fairy lights. The dark ivy gradates down into a black background with an info blurb in white that acts as a border between the stone and the author’s name below in turquoise. At the very top is the series info in yellow.
The title should really be in the plural, for there is not just one Sucker Punch, but a multitude of them!
My Take
Well, you know the New York pack has smarts — they hate Fitzhugh right along with the New Jersey pack.
Whoaaa, Donna learns the truth about Sister Cammie’s activities at the convent! Who’d’ve thunk!?!? Still, Cammie has Donna’s back. Then there’s Neo’s hobbies — Skynet 2020 sounds quite useful.
Hmmm, who knew a vampire could be blessed by the pope? Seems like Donna might be blessed in other ways when she’s attracted to Kace.
I like Donna’s comment: “Being kind did not make a person weak.”
I love that Donna finds so many aspects of her awful past that are coming in handy in her new role as governor. She does make a point of noting the differences between her social-climbing, suck-up past with other mobster wives and the freedom of her current “life”. And we learn all this through third person protagonist point-of-view from Donna’s perspective, so we know what she experiences, visually, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Donna and Pierce both confess the truth about their feelings, and there's such drama about it.
There are lots of reveals about Claudette, the former governor, and her achievements as governor. There are still lousy governors out there — and Fitzhugh is THE WORST.
Hmm, William Ferris went from two daughters to three.
Nemo. Hmm, I like it. Charlie suggests it as a nickname for that cute couple.
Kidnapping, battle against the fae, poisoning, exile, charges for assault against Pierce (a human!!), a yummy addiction, the store of sweets (ah, to be a vampire who can eat, lol), and the supportive cast of characters keeps the action flowing with devastating reveals. As for the ending cliffhanger . . . wow.
Yep, part of what I love about this cozy series is how kind Donna is, how she considers how to genuinely help those she governs, well, and everyone else. Look at how she helped Meghan salvage her career! Don't you wish more politicians were like this?? Talk about a fantasy, *laughing*.
The Story
There's no choice but for the vampires to go to war against the fae, if they want to rescue Special Agent Rico and save Rixaline. But if they do, there's a religious order threatening to kill all vampires and fae, especially Donna.
Then Donna is poisoned . . . with emotion and Fitzhugh responds with a selfish attack.
The Characters
Belladonna “Donna” Barrone, a day-walking vampire, is the New Jersey vampire governor, after having been a mobster’s wife. She lives in the penthouse of the Wellman Towers with Lucky, her cat. Her son, Lieutenant Joe, Jr, is in the Air Force. Her daughter, the newly pregnant Christina, is attending college. The father-to-be, Noah Miller, is working on his master’s in hospitality management. Camille “Cammie”, a.k.a. Sister Mary Lazarus Immaculata, is her sister and currently in Nicaragua on a mission. Her new job will be as a demon remover. Donna and Cammie’s dad took off when the girls were in their early teens. Joe Barrone had been her mobster husband, who had supposedly died. Their mother, Rosa, a devout Sicilian Catholic, turned her back on Donna. Noah’s father owns a barbecue restaurant, Big Dog’s. and is also the mayor of Timberville, Indiana.
Pierce Harrison is Donna's personal assistant and life-saving attorney. Charlene “Charlie” Rollins is her administrative assistant. Temo Danielson, former Special Ops and a demigod, is her driver and head of security. Penina is Temo’s cousin and part-time security. Jerabeth Smalls, an elemental witch, is in charge of the governor’s greenhouse. Dr Fox, a gnome, is the governor's personal doctor.
Rixaline is a teenage dhamfir who got sanctuary from Belladonna in Suck It Up Buttercup , 2, can find anything. She was told that Rix, a palace guard, was her father. Her mother had been Brielle.
The First Fangs Club is . . .
. . . a support group for new vampires. Francine, an elderly, unstoppable matriarch you can’t help but love, had thrown a party for Donna. Lionel is Francine’s roommate/sire/boyfriend who turned her. Neo is a younger, street-wise computer programmer, who is stepping up to help with Donna’s security — and falling for Temo. Bunni is a ditzy blonde who wants revenge on her boyfriend. Meghan Murphy is a supermodel sired by Claudette. LaToya is a single mom. Dr Ursula Goldberg, who had been Donna’s therapist when Donna had been human, is the empathic psychologist who runs the club.
The New Jersey Pack of . . .
. . . wolves is led by Louisa Valentina “LV” Medina, their alpha. She’s also Rico’s grandmother. Maria “Toni” Antonella is the alpha-elect and his mother. And are they angry!
The Mobsters
Big Tony is the big boss. Lucinda, Donna’s former sister-in-law, is a major pain and Big Tony's wife.
Alvaro owns a bodega. Kace Donovan, a gargoyle, is one of Donna’s neighbors and has also worked temporary security for the New Jersey governor.
The Sisters of the Holy Rosary is . . .
. . . one of the specialized convents who train and deploy vampire hunters. A Venari is an ancient order of nuns and priests trained in the art of killing any supernatural that goes rogue.
The vampires
Hawke Fitzhugh, a power-hungry vampire, is the governor of New York and lives in Montevetro, an Upper East Side version of Donna’s building. Other governors include Joseph of Idaho and Kitka of Alaska. Astrid is thought to be a legend about an unkillable Viking shield maiden.
Queen Artemis, a pacifist, rules the vampires, and she’s Donna’s “grandmother”. Her home base is Lebanon, Kansas. Marcus is Artemis’ deputy. The Immortus Concilio rules the entire vampire nation with the Prime, the oldest known vampire in existence, as its leader. Richard D’Angelo is an emissary for the Prime. Claudette Martine had been the governor in Sucks To Be Me , 1, and Donna’s sire.
The FBI
Special Agent Rico Medina, a stand-up guy, has been Belladonna’s handler.
The Fae
The terrible King Dredward rules the fae. Their castle is in Central Park and heavily disguised. Ishalan is a fae, trained as a sacarado, a priest of ancient texts and a giver of blessings and curses, who has been tossed out due to disagreeing with too many other fae. Dr Ritter treated Ishalan.
Ferris & Coven, a family-owned business — a father, William Ferris (he’s half reaper), and his daughters, Harper, a potion maker, Daisy, a necromancer, and Reggie, whose fiancé, Abraham, was killed by the fae, who are all witches — do custom leatherwork. An FTS is a fairy-tale shifter, things not considered real by humans. Miriam Pasternak owns Beautiful Buds, a flower shop.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a good blend of gloomy and cheerful, just like the story. A blurred royal blue battle scene at the top is reflected in the bottle of elixir in front of the nicely carved tombstone with its scroll-like top that holds the title with its fancy engraved font. The stone itself is framed by ivy and fairy lights. The dark ivy gradates down into a black background with an info blurb in white that acts as a border between the stone and the author’s name below in turquoise. At the very top is the series info in yellow.
The title should really be in the plural, for there is not just one Sucker Punch, but a multitude of them!
March 22, 2022
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Newly appointed vampire governor of New Jersey, Belladonna Barrone is fast discovering that life as a vampire isn’t much easier than life as a mobster’s wife. But that experience certainly taught her some things about how to handle the problems that come with being governor. That is until a friend is kidnapped by the fae and his life put in danger, all because of her actions.
Figuring out how to save him feels very much above her paygrade, but she’s the boss and the decision about how to handle this potentially deadly situation is completely up to her. With the clock ticking, she has no choice but to attempt a rescue.
MY TAKE
Donna and her friends and staff are a hoot. Most of all I love Donna's motherly heart. Her years being a mob wife (which she hated and didn't know about until she'd been married 6 years) have taught her a lot.
Each book challenges her in unexpected ways and introduces her to even more interesting characters. One thing I love about her is that her good heart has a way of making bridges even when her willingness to stand up for herself and others can create problems.
While each book's storyline is finished, there's always a little cliffhanger-y ending to set up the next book. I'll wait to read the 4th book until the 5th book is out because I'm hate cliffhangers, and this one ended with a not-on-the-edge-of-your-seat revelation.
Newly appointed vampire governor of New Jersey, Belladonna Barrone is fast discovering that life as a vampire isn’t much easier than life as a mobster’s wife. But that experience certainly taught her some things about how to handle the problems that come with being governor. That is until a friend is kidnapped by the fae and his life put in danger, all because of her actions.
Figuring out how to save him feels very much above her paygrade, but she’s the boss and the decision about how to handle this potentially deadly situation is completely up to her. With the clock ticking, she has no choice but to attempt a rescue.
MY TAKE
Donna and her friends and staff are a hoot. Most of all I love Donna's motherly heart. Her years being a mob wife (which she hated and didn't know about until she'd been married 6 years) have taught her a lot.
Each book challenges her in unexpected ways and introduces her to even more interesting characters. One thing I love about her is that her good heart has a way of making bridges even when her willingness to stand up for herself and others can create problems.
While each book's storyline is finished, there's always a little cliffhanger-y ending to set up the next book. I'll wait to read the 4th book until the 5th book is out because I'm hate cliffhangers, and this one ended with a not-on-the-edge-of-your-seat revelation.
January 19, 2021
Book three in the First Fangs series is probably the best instalment yet. It would make sense to read the first two before starting on 'Sucker Punch' as it is very much a continuation of the story.
Just as Belladonna Barrone begins to settle in as vampire governor of New Jersey it all goes to hell in a handbasket.
FBI agent and werewolf, Rico Antonella, has been kidnapped by the Fae king, Dredward. He demands that Donna turn over vampire/fae Rixaline - who was given sanctuary by Donna - or Rick will suffer, quite literally, a fate worse than death.
Meanwhile, the vampire governor of New York, Hawke Fitzhugh, continues to be a thorn in Donna's side.
And, she has yet to get around to telling her children that momma has joined the undead!
But first comes the rescue of Rico and Donna needs all the help she can get - vampires, werewolves, a gargoyle, necromancer, witch, demigod, a vampire Queen, even an enemy!
The book fairly races along, certainly when compared to the first two in the series. It ends on a very mild cliff-hanger.
I'll be looking out for the next episode.
Just as Belladonna Barrone begins to settle in as vampire governor of New Jersey it all goes to hell in a handbasket.
FBI agent and werewolf, Rico Antonella, has been kidnapped by the Fae king, Dredward. He demands that Donna turn over vampire/fae Rixaline - who was given sanctuary by Donna - or Rick will suffer, quite literally, a fate worse than death.
Meanwhile, the vampire governor of New York, Hawke Fitzhugh, continues to be a thorn in Donna's side.
And, she has yet to get around to telling her children that momma has joined the undead!
But first comes the rescue of Rico and Donna needs all the help she can get - vampires, werewolves, a gargoyle, necromancer, witch, demigod, a vampire Queen, even an enemy!
The book fairly races along, certainly when compared to the first two in the series. It ends on a very mild cliff-hanger.
I'll be looking out for the next episode.
November 10, 2020
As a fan of Kristen Painter books (yes, I've read a lot of them, and love her as an author), I adored Sucker Punch. Kristen has an amazing talent to keep the sequels in a series as fun, entertaining, and engrossing as the first. Sucker punch is no exception to this.
The characters are engaging, and you really feel like you get to know them. They are flawed, make mistakes, and don't know everything. I absolutely enjoyed every second of reading Sucker Punch, and could hardly put the book down. You will need to read all the previous books in the series starting with Sucks to be Me to feel like you know what is happening in this book.
I give the book a solid 5 of 5 stars. I was transported to the world and wanted more when finished. Also Holy Batman on the ending. You've got to read it, as I'm not spoiling anything.
The characters are engaging, and you really feel like you get to know them. They are flawed, make mistakes, and don't know everything. I absolutely enjoyed every second of reading Sucker Punch, and could hardly put the book down. You will need to read all the previous books in the series starting with Sucks to be Me to feel like you know what is happening in this book.
I give the book a solid 5 of 5 stars. I was transported to the world and wanted more when finished. Also Holy Batman on the ending. You've got to read it, as I'm not spoiling anything.
November 25, 2020
In my opinion, the best book in the series so far. Donna is finally getting the hang of her powers and her crew. The threats are real, bad things happen, and she can't stop all of them. Sucker Punch also did a great job of showing rather than telling. The descriptions of the Stronghold and the battle were pretty epic, and I could see it in my head.
I love the interactions between Donna and her office staff, with her sister, and with her daughter. Her growing relationship with the First Fangs Club is also incredible. However, I feel like it is nigh on time for her to shit or get off the pot when it comes to Pierce. He acts like a boyfriend, he wants the job, and he is starting to kind of demand the status. He's either her assistant or her boyfriend, but this in-between stage is kind of messing with the other relationships in the tower.
Also, I licked Kace, he's mine.
I love the interactions between Donna and her office staff, with her sister, and with her daughter. Her growing relationship with the First Fangs Club is also incredible. However, I feel like it is nigh on time for her to shit or get off the pot when it comes to Pierce. He acts like a boyfriend, he wants the job, and he is starting to kind of demand the status. He's either her assistant or her boyfriend, but this in-between stage is kind of messing with the other relationships in the tower.
Also, I licked Kace, he's mine.
November 1, 2020
Wow, I think the title of this book was really intended for how the reader would feel when finished. I feel sucker punched. In a good way, but also saying where’s the next book? This book has so many sucker punches all through it. I couldn’t get enough of it. I loved it. So much is happening with Donna and here family and loved ones. I’m dying to talk about it but anything I say would ruin it. I think it could be read as a stand alone but some of the background would be missing. Not enough you couldn’t understand what’s going on but one would really enjoy it best if they started with the first one. I have to say though, if you want to know if it’s a series you would love, start with this one and you will definitely be hooked. It has a whole lot going on for one book.
November 15, 2020
HOLY BAJINGOE BATMAN!!
Okay soooooo so much happened in this book that it was truely a massive page turner and I kept thinking “oh okay THIS will be the big moment in the book..then nope, okay okay then THIS will be the big thing in the book..ahhh nope not at all...” it kept going for more and more coolness...omg I LOVE THIS BOOK...so I already have a big ole girl crush on Kristin Painter but now I’m a total goner, awesome writing and storytelling and I’m just way on down in that rabbit hole and I won’t come back out until the next book which is going to take FOREVER because I’m such a greedy greedy guts now for MORE MORE MORE..please and thank you and yeah..read this book folks.
Okay soooooo so much happened in this book that it was truely a massive page turner and I kept thinking “oh okay THIS will be the big moment in the book..then nope, okay okay then THIS will be the big thing in the book..ahhh nope not at all...” it kept going for more and more coolness...omg I LOVE THIS BOOK...so I already have a big ole girl crush on Kristin Painter but now I’m a total goner, awesome writing and storytelling and I’m just way on down in that rabbit hole and I won’t come back out until the next book which is going to take FOREVER because I’m such a greedy greedy guts now for MORE MORE MORE..please and thank you and yeah..read this book folks.
November 18, 2020
Okay, this wasn't such an awful cliffhanger. If I didn't read the next one I wouldn't be bothered. I expected someone being hanging on for dear life but all it was was a surprising someone standing at Donna's door.
Anyway, Donna's First Fang Club is such an awesome group. Dr. Goldberg, LaToya, Francine, Bunni, Meghan and Neo are such a wonderful group, I'm always glad when the have a meeting.
Of course, in this story Donna kicked some ass, and that was good to see. Although, there was one sad death when they went to war with the Fae.
So, no romance and no swearing. Definitely rated G.
As to the narration: B.J. Harrison is a great narrator but he still needs a little help with the female voices.
Anyway, Donna's First Fang Club is such an awesome group. Dr. Goldberg, LaToya, Francine, Bunni, Meghan and Neo are such a wonderful group, I'm always glad when the have a meeting.
Of course, in this story Donna kicked some ass, and that was good to see. Although, there was one sad death when they went to war with the Fae.
So, no romance and no swearing. Definitely rated G.
As to the narration: B.J. Harrison is a great narrator but he still needs a little help with the female voices.
November 11, 2020
Belladonna the new Vampire Governor is back and she is ready to kick serious butt. To protect those she cares for and all those under her protection, there isn't much she won't do.
This is one bad arse middle age woman who won't hesitate to do what needs to be done when a friend has been kidnapped. There is so much action, laughter and some twists you don't see coming. This is a great series and once again book four can't come soon enough.
It does lead into the next book, a cliffhanger but not one that has you pulling your hair out screaming at the Author. Definitely a binge worthy series!
Sucker Punch
This is one bad arse middle age woman who won't hesitate to do what needs to be done when a friend has been kidnapped. There is so much action, laughter and some twists you don't see coming. This is a great series and once again book four can't come soon enough.
It does lead into the next book, a cliffhanger but not one that has you pulling your hair out screaming at the Author. Definitely a binge worthy series!
Sucker Punch
February 6, 2023
A Gripping Story That I Enjoyed From Start To Finish.
You can find many of Kristen Painter’s books in my review archives – I love her light paranormal romance Nocturne Falls series. The First Fangs Club series is different: less light-hearted. However, that’s a good thing as they need that extra weight due to some of the darker themes.
I love that Kristen can tweak her writing style to accommodate different genres and I absolutely love that her main character in the First Fangs Club series is a middle-aged woman. I did chuckle and smile, recognising many nods to women of my age.
You can find many of Kristen Painter’s books in my review archives – I love her light paranormal romance Nocturne Falls series. The First Fangs Club series is different: less light-hearted. However, that’s a good thing as they need that extra weight due to some of the darker themes.
I love that Kristen can tweak her writing style to accommodate different genres and I absolutely love that her main character in the First Fangs Club series is a middle-aged woman. I did chuckle and smile, recognising many nods to women of my age.
May 15, 2023
Holy cannolis! This author has a way of ending books big a huge heart skipping beat. A lot went down in this installation and I don’t think I can truly encompass it all in a review. Donna is really making a name for herself, a good one. Everything seems to be happening at warp speed for her and it never seems to stop. She has a rescue mission to complete, a poisoning to get over, and family drama to steer her way through. However, she has her found family in her team to have her back and give honest advice when needed. I love these characters and how their personalities evolve while staying true to their core that we were introduced to. I highly recommend this series so far! On to the next!
February 23, 2024
Donna's strength is what is keeping her from going crazy with everything that's going on. In this book, Donna and her crew which includes a few Fae, lots of wolves and some others who must battle with the Fae to save Rico, who was kidnapped by the Fae king. Rico is the FBI agent she worked with to take down her ex-husband mobster. The book has non stop action, a new possible love interest, more wonderful characters like her sister, a dangerous undertaking and the adventure of a lifetime all rolled into this one book. To understand everything, reading the previous two books is a must. What's up for Donna next?
November 9, 2020
Beyond outstanding
This story began great and kept going the same way until the last sentence. I am beyond thrilled with this series and book 3 certainly lived up to all my expectations. I don’t know how this author manages to write 3 novels where each one is just the perfect reading material for a good paranormal story. Characters and storyline are well developed. The Governor is insecure in a very secure determined way...excellent alpha female leading her state’s vampires. Do yourself a huge favor...read this PWF’s First Fangs Club series!
This story began great and kept going the same way until the last sentence. I am beyond thrilled with this series and book 3 certainly lived up to all my expectations. I don’t know how this author manages to write 3 novels where each one is just the perfect reading material for a good paranormal story. Characters and storyline are well developed. The Governor is insecure in a very secure determined way...excellent alpha female leading her state’s vampires. Do yourself a huge favor...read this PWF’s First Fangs Club series!
November 11, 2020
Action Pacted
Wow. The ending was Wow!! I loved the entire story which had so much happening in it. But the ending OMG it was fantastic and left me begging for the next book to happen soon. Ms. Painter literally describes each scene so masterfully that I can see what the character is seeing and doing as if I am there. But for this book to be really enjoyed and to get the full impact on everything that happens in it you really must read the entire series and it will be worth it! Great book.
Wow. The ending was Wow!! I loved the entire story which had so much happening in it. But the ending OMG it was fantastic and left me begging for the next book to happen soon. Ms. Painter literally describes each scene so masterfully that I can see what the character is seeing and doing as if I am there. But for this book to be really enjoyed and to get the full impact on everything that happens in it you really must read the entire series and it will be worth it! Great book.
November 13, 2020
This picks up where book 2 left off. What an ending that was. I will say this one was just as action packed & full of surprises as the first two. Everything I loved about this I can't say because they'd be major spoilers but I will say, once again, that I highly recommend this series (as well as all her others).
This isn't your typical vampire series either.
In this series the main character, Belladonna, is turned in her late forties which is an age that you usually don't find in most vampire stories & that's only a small part of it's charm.
This isn't your typical vampire series either.
In this series the main character, Belladonna, is turned in her late forties which is an age that you usually don't find in most vampire stories & that's only a small part of it's charm.
March 1, 2021
What a journey and it is not over yet
I like this book a lot. The MC is likable, funny and very put together. Her staff is delightful. The story is really interesting and captivating. The only thing I hate is the cliffhanger. I can’t stand them, I think it is a cheap shot to the readers. That’s why I gave 4 stars. IMHO a book must stand on its own, and a cliffhanger imply, for me, that it is the only way the reader will want to buy the next book in the series. Other than that it is excellent and well written.
I like this book a lot. The MC is likable, funny and very put together. Her staff is delightful. The story is really interesting and captivating. The only thing I hate is the cliffhanger. I can’t stand them, I think it is a cheap shot to the readers. That’s why I gave 4 stars. IMHO a book must stand on its own, and a cliffhanger imply, for me, that it is the only way the reader will want to buy the next book in the series. Other than that it is excellent and well written.
April 1, 2021
What a fun series! You have a woman who was married to a mob boss who gets the guy out of her life finally!
But has a new problem as she has now become a vampire.
And the new vampire governor of New Jersey.
IN this next adventure, Doona Barrone, the new governor has had one of her friends kidnapped by the FAe.
She has to set up an operation to rescue him in the middle of enemy territory.
Luckily she has her friends, various supernaturals, witches, werewolves and others to help.
Wild ride and a lot of fun!
But has a new problem as she has now become a vampire.
And the new vampire governor of New Jersey.
IN this next adventure, Doona Barrone, the new governor has had one of her friends kidnapped by the FAe.
She has to set up an operation to rescue him in the middle of enemy territory.
Luckily she has her friends, various supernaturals, witches, werewolves and others to help.
Wild ride and a lot of fun!
April 3, 2021
Beware of cliffhanger
I enjoyed this series, just as I have her other series. The author always makes her characters feel alive. I like the idea of vampires vs fae and the fact vampires and werewolves usually have a lot of chemistry. I love the good guy Pierce, but he is sturdy and Donna already has a lot of common sense. She needs someone who can add spice and/or excitement. However, I would love for her to have a reverse harem, if possible, with Pierce, Rico, and Ishmal. That would be awesome!!
I enjoyed this series, just as I have her other series. The author always makes her characters feel alive. I like the idea of vampires vs fae and the fact vampires and werewolves usually have a lot of chemistry. I love the good guy Pierce, but he is sturdy and Donna already has a lot of common sense. She needs someone who can add spice and/or excitement. However, I would love for her to have a reverse harem, if possible, with Pierce, Rico, and Ishmal. That would be awesome!!
August 8, 2022
The title is certainly apt. Surprises come at Donna left and right.
Initially I didn't enjoy this as much as previous books in the series, where the conflict was mostly one-on-one. Here, we have an epic battle, with a cast of hundreds. There's an overly long preparation for the battle, the battle itself in gory detail, and in my opinion too many new developments after the battle.
The book ended on a cliffhanger so juicy that I can't wait to see what happens next.
Possible typo: Donna lobbed off an enemy's head. I would have written "lopped off."
Initially I didn't enjoy this as much as previous books in the series, where the conflict was mostly one-on-one. Here, we have an epic battle, with a cast of hundreds. There's an overly long preparation for the battle, the battle itself in gory detail, and in my opinion too many new developments after the battle.
The book ended on a cliffhanger so juicy that I can't wait to see what happens next.
Possible typo: Donna lobbed off an enemy's head. I would have written "lopped off."
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