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Consortium Trilogy #2
Freezing Aversion
Benjamin Coulton is a tracker employed by the Consortium, the ruling counsel of vampires. When he's sent to investigate a rogue vampire killing indiscriminately in a remote region of Alaska. Bad weather hampers his effort and he loses the vampire he's been tasked to find.
Leon Davis and his friend Brian agreed to be winter caretakers for several cabins and a fishing lodge, thinking it would be easy money. They settle into their daily routine of checking the cabins for animal break-ins, or broken water pipes, and prepare for a long winter.
Until a run in with a vampire changes everything.Ben finds a newly turned vampire left for dead by the rogue vampire, and suddenly Ben's mission changes course. In the freezing wilderness of Alaska, he uncovers more truths and the mate he'd always longed for... and now the killer vampire is tracking them. MM Paranormal Romance.
Leon Davis and his friend Brian agreed to be winter caretakers for several cabins and a fishing lodge, thinking it would be easy money. They settle into their daily routine of checking the cabins for animal break-ins, or broken water pipes, and prepare for a long winter.
Until a run in with a vampire changes everything.Ben finds a newly turned vampire left for dead by the rogue vampire, and suddenly Ben's mission changes course. In the freezing wilderness of Alaska, he uncovers more truths and the mate he'd always longed for... and now the killer vampire is tracking them. MM Paranormal Romance.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 29, 2021
9 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 9, 2022
3 “My heart is yours and yours alone.” stars
I wanted him by my side. Always. He occupied every part of my heart and my thoughts. He was everything.
I had a very good time reading this book and it was my first book by this author but it certainly won’t be my last.
Brief summary
Benjamin, a vampire, works for an organization that keeps track of vampires that do not follow the rules and he’s sent to track a rogue vampire. There he meets a man who was just turned into a vampire, Leon. Benjamin promises Leon to teach him everything that there is to know about being a vampire. Turns out that they are mates and that they fall in love with each other.
First, this book is the second book in a series and it states that it can be read as a standalone, which I did. And I was quite confused as to what was going on at first, I felt like I was missing a lot of information that were needed for me to understand the book. I learnt all the information I needed later on during the book, but I wish I had read the first book before I read this one, so I would definitely recommend reading this series in order, I think it would enhance your enjoyment of the book.
Second, I loved the plot line about Benjamin who was following the rogue, it was just so much fun to read about. A lot of the book was Benjamin chasing the rogue vampire through forests with lots of snow and I really enjoyed that. It gave the book a really eary feel and it made for a lot of fun to read about. Also, I had a lot of fun learning about the rogue vampire and reading about how our main characters were tracking him. All in all I just had a really good time following through those parts of the book, they were super engaging to read and always kept me interested in seeing what would happen next.
Third, I really enjoyed the romance between Benjamin and Leon, it was very swoony and gave me a lot of good feelings while I was reading the book. And the link between them was very strong and I really appreciated that.
Fourth, the thing is, I just couldn’t really get into the book, while I enjoyed my reading experience, I felt like I was missing some information and some details that would have allowed me to get lost into the universe of the book more. I would have appreciated if everything was a little more fleshed out because I felt like I got a lot of surface information and not enough details about that information.
Even if I didn’t ever truly connect with this book, I did really enjoy reading it and it was a lot of fun to follow these characters on their journey.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I wanted him by my side. Always. He occupied every part of my heart and my thoughts. He was everything.
I had a very good time reading this book and it was my first book by this author but it certainly won’t be my last.
Brief summary
Benjamin, a vampire, works for an organization that keeps track of vampires that do not follow the rules and he’s sent to track a rogue vampire. There he meets a man who was just turned into a vampire, Leon. Benjamin promises Leon to teach him everything that there is to know about being a vampire. Turns out that they are mates and that they fall in love with each other.
First, this book is the second book in a series and it states that it can be read as a standalone, which I did. And I was quite confused as to what was going on at first, I felt like I was missing a lot of information that were needed for me to understand the book. I learnt all the information I needed later on during the book, but I wish I had read the first book before I read this one, so I would definitely recommend reading this series in order, I think it would enhance your enjoyment of the book.
Second, I loved the plot line about Benjamin who was following the rogue, it was just so much fun to read about. A lot of the book was Benjamin chasing the rogue vampire through forests with lots of snow and I really enjoyed that. It gave the book a really eary feel and it made for a lot of fun to read about. Also, I had a lot of fun learning about the rogue vampire and reading about how our main characters were tracking him. All in all I just had a really good time following through those parts of the book, they were super engaging to read and always kept me interested in seeing what would happen next.
Third, I really enjoyed the romance between Benjamin and Leon, it was very swoony and gave me a lot of good feelings while I was reading the book. And the link between them was very strong and I really appreciated that.
Fourth, the thing is, I just couldn’t really get into the book, while I enjoyed my reading experience, I felt like I was missing some information and some details that would have allowed me to get lost into the universe of the book more. I would have appreciated if everything was a little more fleshed out because I felt like I got a lot of surface information and not enough details about that information.
Even if I didn’t ever truly connect with this book, I did really enjoy reading it and it was a lot of fun to follow these characters on their journey.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 27, 2021
Benjamin is a vampire. He’s hunting a rogue when he comes across Leon, a newly turned vampire. As they come together to hunt the other vampire they discover they have a connection they never anticipated having.
I love an evil bad guy and this one was a doozie. Very easy to dislike. The other main characters were well done also. Ben is a determined and knowledgeable hunter, content in his job, almost complacent. Leon seemed to take to being a vampire easy enough. Joel was much more of a mystery.
Living in Alaska, the weather resonated with me. The snow did play a huge part in the story. Even though the vampires don’t feel cold, running through the snow barefoot just seemed wrong.
I though the book was well done. I also liked how the three vampires filled in the backstory. I do enjoy this author’s writing.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I love an evil bad guy and this one was a doozie. Very easy to dislike. The other main characters were well done also. Ben is a determined and knowledgeable hunter, content in his job, almost complacent. Leon seemed to take to being a vampire easy enough. Joel was much more of a mystery.
Living in Alaska, the weather resonated with me. The snow did play a huge part in the story. Even though the vampires don’t feel cold, running through the snow barefoot just seemed wrong.
I though the book was well done. I also liked how the three vampires filled in the backstory. I do enjoy this author’s writing.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
December 23, 2021
Freezing Aversion is an interesting take on vampires with a ruling council. There’s a bit of a twist in Samuel’s escape from confinement that gives Ben and Leon a project to pursue.
I love Ben’s confidence in his abilities and his dedication to his work. Once he realizes that Leon has been turned and abandoned, he takes him under his wing. Leon, even as a newborn vamp, takes things in stride. He is strong, fast, and looks at things with a fresh point of view that turns out to be life saving.
Joel is an interesting addition. He has information that Ben needs to figure out what’s really going on. And Samuel? Pretty much pure evil. He’s a bad guy that’s easy to hate.
There’s plenty of action without too much suspense. I love the setting, out in the middle of nowhere, lost in a massive snowstorm. The extremely long nights of the far north add in to make it the perfect place for a battle of vampires.
I love vamps, and this was well worth the read!
I love Ben’s confidence in his abilities and his dedication to his work. Once he realizes that Leon has been turned and abandoned, he takes him under his wing. Leon, even as a newborn vamp, takes things in stride. He is strong, fast, and looks at things with a fresh point of view that turns out to be life saving.
Joel is an interesting addition. He has information that Ben needs to figure out what’s really going on. And Samuel? Pretty much pure evil. He’s a bad guy that’s easy to hate.
There’s plenty of action without too much suspense. I love the setting, out in the middle of nowhere, lost in a massive snowstorm. The extremely long nights of the far north add in to make it the perfect place for a battle of vampires.
I love vamps, and this was well worth the read!
April 6, 2022
Vampires, the good and the rogues
I loved book one in this series, so I had high hopes for this book.
BL Maxwell never disappoints. Their books are always a little different, which I like. This one is a follow on, so personally, I would read them in order, so you understand the characters better as they appear in both books.
Ben is a tracker and has been sent to Alaska to hunt a rogue vampire whilst there, and he uncovers all sorts. I can't say anymore as I may ruin it for you.
There were a couple of places where I lost the story when I read the book, but I had no issues whilst listening. Overall I loved the characters and the story.
Good narration from Allen Jeffries. Very clear and easy to listen to. Although, like usual, I sped up the audio, and I listened at 1.30 speed on audible, I prefer all my audios to be quicker.
Freezing Aversion
Consortium Series, Book 2
By: BL Maxwell
Narrated by: Allen Jeffries
Series: Consortium Trilogy, Book 2
Length: 5 hrs and 53 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.30 speed on Audible
I received this audiobook for free from the author at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - nor did the author influence my opinion.
I loved book one in this series, so I had high hopes for this book.
BL Maxwell never disappoints. Their books are always a little different, which I like. This one is a follow on, so personally, I would read them in order, so you understand the characters better as they appear in both books.
Ben is a tracker and has been sent to Alaska to hunt a rogue vampire whilst there, and he uncovers all sorts. I can't say anymore as I may ruin it for you.
There were a couple of places where I lost the story when I read the book, but I had no issues whilst listening. Overall I loved the characters and the story.
Good narration from Allen Jeffries. Very clear and easy to listen to. Although, like usual, I sped up the audio, and I listened at 1.30 speed on audible, I prefer all my audios to be quicker.
Freezing Aversion
Consortium Series, Book 2
By: BL Maxwell
Narrated by: Allen Jeffries
Series: Consortium Trilogy, Book 2
Length: 5 hrs and 53 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.30 speed on Audible
I received this audiobook for free from the author at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - nor did the author influence my opinion.
January 4, 2022
4.5 Stars!
Even if Freezing Aversion is book 2 in the Consortium series, Ms. Maxwell did a great job weaving some of the backstory into the book in a creative way and I had no trouble following the plot along even if I didn't read book 1.
Ben has been sent to track a rogue vampire in Alaska by the Consortium, who oversee and rule all things vampire. What he discovers there is more than he anticipated, a newborn vampire (Leon), an ancient evil vampire who was supposed to be in captivity (Samuel), and another vampire who seems to be under Samuel's thrall (Joel).
Ben and Leon have a lot of chemistry, and even if the pull they felt for each other wasn't exactly instant, there were clues that it was building between them. Samuel was an unredeemable bad guy, and I was glad Ben was determined to get rid of him even if the Consortium hadn't sanctioned it. I really liked Joel and I hope that we get to see more of him.
The story is fast-paced, intriguing, plot-oriented, with a good world-building foundation. It's low-heat, but make no mistake, you can feel the growing connection between Ben and Leon, and I enjoyed it more than it being instantaneous. Recommendable! I'm already looking forward to more.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Even if Freezing Aversion is book 2 in the Consortium series, Ms. Maxwell did a great job weaving some of the backstory into the book in a creative way and I had no trouble following the plot along even if I didn't read book 1.
Ben has been sent to track a rogue vampire in Alaska by the Consortium, who oversee and rule all things vampire. What he discovers there is more than he anticipated, a newborn vampire (Leon), an ancient evil vampire who was supposed to be in captivity (Samuel), and another vampire who seems to be under Samuel's thrall (Joel).
Ben and Leon have a lot of chemistry, and even if the pull they felt for each other wasn't exactly instant, there were clues that it was building between them. Samuel was an unredeemable bad guy, and I was glad Ben was determined to get rid of him even if the Consortium hadn't sanctioned it. I really liked Joel and I hope that we get to see more of him.
The story is fast-paced, intriguing, plot-oriented, with a good world-building foundation. It's low-heat, but make no mistake, you can feel the growing connection between Ben and Leon, and I enjoyed it more than it being instantaneous. Recommendable! I'm already looking forward to more.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 8, 2022
Tracking the Killer Vampire . . .
There is plenty of action and excitement in this story as Benjamin Coulton, a tracker working for the ruling Council of Vampires, is sent to Alaska on the trail of a vicious rogue vampire killer. In the bad snowstorm, Ben loses track of Samuel.
Leon Davis and his friend Trevor, humans, had been hired as winter caretakers for the empty cabins. Samuel, the rogue Ben is chasing, found them and kept them alive to feed on for an unknown amount of time. When Ben found them, Trevor was dead and Leon, left for dead, needed his help as he had turned into a vampire himself. Ben teaches Leon about being a vampire and how to properly take care of his needs. He also finds that Leon is his mate. Will they survive when the rogue now begins to hunt them?
This story is well-written and the pacing makes it easy to read. I really liked both Ben and Leon as characters. There was a feeling that they were both very honorable and good people. The story line itself will easily pull the reader in as the suspense and danger keep things lively (no pun intended). Grab your copy and see if they can survive Samuel’s attacks and ultimately defeat him.
There is plenty of action and excitement in this story as Benjamin Coulton, a tracker working for the ruling Council of Vampires, is sent to Alaska on the trail of a vicious rogue vampire killer. In the bad snowstorm, Ben loses track of Samuel.
Leon Davis and his friend Trevor, humans, had been hired as winter caretakers for the empty cabins. Samuel, the rogue Ben is chasing, found them and kept them alive to feed on for an unknown amount of time. When Ben found them, Trevor was dead and Leon, left for dead, needed his help as he had turned into a vampire himself. Ben teaches Leon about being a vampire and how to properly take care of his needs. He also finds that Leon is his mate. Will they survive when the rogue now begins to hunt them?
This story is well-written and the pacing makes it easy to read. I really liked both Ben and Leon as characters. There was a feeling that they were both very honorable and good people. The story line itself will easily pull the reader in as the suspense and danger keep things lively (no pun intended). Grab your copy and see if they can survive Samuel’s attacks and ultimately defeat him.
December 24, 2021
❤ A good start as Benjamin is of to assignment to track a rouge vampire..
This is story that had me glued to see what would happen with Ben and Leon also Joel especially with Samuel in the picture. Ben and Leon get close learning about each other in the confined cabin and Ben knows he's found his mate, now he just needs to keep him safe. He definitely has a tough time at doing that in this. Trusting issues was big in this as they learn things from Joel without spoiling the ending. All ends well for both characters with an HEA. The story takes you in an suspenseful story as I had no idea what would happen next. Joel fills the book with important information and things gets clued in from the first book hans the trusting issues come into the story. This is book 2 of the series and can be read in order to understand the storyline or read as a standalone.
Ben was an excellent vampire tracker and now was looking a newborn vampire to destroy with orders from the Consortium.
The Newborn, Leon couldn't remember what happened or where he was, he now had to accept that he's become a vampire by a mad rouge vamp.
This is story that had me glued to see what would happen with Ben and Leon also Joel especially with Samuel in the picture. Ben and Leon get close learning about each other in the confined cabin and Ben knows he's found his mate, now he just needs to keep him safe. He definitely has a tough time at doing that in this. Trusting issues was big in this as they learn things from Joel without spoiling the ending. All ends well for both characters with an HEA. The story takes you in an suspenseful story as I had no idea what would happen next. Joel fills the book with important information and things gets clued in from the first book hans the trusting issues come into the story. This is book 2 of the series and can be read in order to understand the storyline or read as a standalone.
Ben was an excellent vampire tracker and now was looking a newborn vampire to destroy with orders from the Consortium.
The Newborn, Leon couldn't remember what happened or where he was, he now had to accept that he's become a vampire by a mad rouge vamp.
January 9, 2022
The story pulls you in and doesn't let you go until it's done! Benjamin is the best tracker employed by the Consortium. He is assigned a new job as soon as he finishes his last. He is sent to Alaska to find a rogue vampire. The vamp is in a blood lust frenzy, beyond reason!He finds a lot more. He finds a newly turned vampire, which is forbidden who also happens to be his mate. Ben's order are to eliminate the rogue and the newly turned vampire, no questions asked. The rogue, comes back to finish what he started. Leon and his friend Trevor, thought caretaking a few cabins in AK would be easy money. Leon, got a bit more than he expected. Benjamin takes Leon on from a gut feeling. Samuel, the rogue has a bit of history with Ben and Leon. Will Ben catch Sanuel? Will Leon take to being a vampire? Will the Consortium let Leon live? Will Ben team with Leon? Excellent story. The author did an excellent job bringing you to AK and letting you feel the environment. Excellent characters. Sam made a great grusome bad guy. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2021
Bundle up warm for this one, the weather is freezing in the story and described so well you'll feel it. You'll also feel a deep chill from the evil vampire in this story as well. I love to see the different ways writers handle relationships between vampires and humans and here we have two extremes. Ben is on a mission to stop the ravages of a rogue vampire when he comes across a human who has been attacked, turned and abandoned. These two find themselves allies as Ben helps Leon learn to deal with the change and as these two discover they are fated mates with all the complications that entails. As the brutal weather continues they also find they are being hunted. This was a book I started earlier today and finished almost without interruption. It pulled me in and I had to know what happened next.
January 5, 2022
Although the book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. There are hints of backstory from the previous novel that gives the reader a good idea of what happened in the previous book. As for Freezing Aversion, this is strictly Ben and Leon’s story that takes place in Alaska, and I love a good Alaskan story!
Benjamin Coulton is a tracker for The Consortium, a counsel of twelve powerful vampires who rule the vampire world. They have tasked Ben to find a rogue vampire who is causing havoc in Alaska. When Ben arrives, he finds a newly-turned Leon, something Ben wasn’t expecting, and showing his compassion and responsible nature, he helps Leon, which I thought was a great touch to Ben’s character.
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-6VT
Benjamin Coulton is a tracker for The Consortium, a counsel of twelve powerful vampires who rule the vampire world. They have tasked Ben to find a rogue vampire who is causing havoc in Alaska. When Ben arrives, he finds a newly-turned Leon, something Ben wasn’t expecting, and showing his compassion and responsible nature, he helps Leon, which I thought was a great touch to Ben’s character.
Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-6VT
June 10, 2025
Another fated mate pair!
This is book 2 in the series the Consortium Trilogy by BL Maxwell, narrated by Allen Jefferies.
In this story we have a returning vampire character, Benjamin, who works for the Consortium as a tracker. He was in book 1 as Lucas' best friend. The second main character, Leon, is in Alaska with his best friend working as caretakers over several cabins during the winter. There is no sweet or funny meet cute in this book either. You'll have to read it to see how they meet yourself.
Wonder if Joel will get his story next? Only time will tell.
Be sure to read book 1 before starting this one. You'll get some invaluable background information that will make this book even better.
A rogue vampire on the loose, a newly turned vampire, how do you know who to trust
This is book 2 in the series the Consortium Trilogy by BL Maxwell, narrated by Allen Jefferies.
In this story we have a returning vampire character, Benjamin, who works for the Consortium as a tracker. He was in book 1 as Lucas' best friend. The second main character, Leon, is in Alaska with his best friend working as caretakers over several cabins during the winter. There is no sweet or funny meet cute in this book either. You'll have to read it to see how they meet yourself.
Wonder if Joel will get his story next? Only time will tell.
Be sure to read book 1 before starting this one. You'll get some invaluable background information that will make this book even better.
A rogue vampire on the loose, a newly turned vampire, how do you know who to trust
December 28, 2021
Ben is sent on a mission to find a rogue vampire and a new vampire. End the new one and bring in the rogue. But he finds secrets revealed and his mate.
This was an Interesting vampire story. It is unique. The characters all interesting and the story itself is riveting. There are twist after twists.
I really enjoyed it .
If your looking for a good vampire store that doesn’t sparkle, with a good romance this is for you.
This was an Interesting vampire story. It is unique. The characters all interesting and the story itself is riveting. There are twist after twists.
I really enjoyed it .
If your looking for a good vampire store that doesn’t sparkle, with a good romance this is for you.
January 5, 2022
Loved the premise of this story!! Ben is a vampire and a tracker for the Consortium and is sent to find a rogue vampire. Leon is a newly turned vampire that Ben finds. Holy moly this was fantastic!! The evil one was truly evil, loved it! The story was well described, I felt the cold! Overall, the story had a great pace, was really well written, highly recommend. I’m voluntarily leaving a review from an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
December 21, 2023
Freezing cold does not bother a vampire, but sunshine is deadly.
Samuel continues to attack and turn humans while avoiding tracking. He is guilty of many crimes, yet the Consortium thinks he is still in their prison control. Too many exceptions are made for him. But Leon has figured out the key to avoiding Samuel's control. He can also avoid Samuel's tracking abilities.
Samuel continues to attack and turn humans while avoiding tracking. He is guilty of many crimes, yet the Consortium thinks he is still in their prison control. Too many exceptions are made for him. But Leon has figured out the key to avoiding Samuel's control. He can also avoid Samuel's tracking abilities.
April 17, 2022
It was good. I liked it better than burning addiction, it felt like it had more direction. I do wish the relationship was more developed though, it was too close to instalove for my liking. I'm looking forward to the next book either way
December 25, 2021
This is only the second book of BL Maxwell's that I have read. I loved it. As a vampire story it was intriguing to read. BL Maxwell kept my attention from beginning to end.
January 5, 2022
loved wins
I really enjoyed this book it is the first one I read in This series I will buy the next book ,,,,,to find someone that you are meant to spend the rest of your life with is phenomenal..
I really enjoyed this book it is the first one I read in This series I will buy the next book ,,,,,to find someone that you are meant to spend the rest of your life with is phenomenal..
Read
January 10, 2022I'm sorry but I tried. That was way too horrifyingly similar to Twilight for me to at least say nice world building.
December 29, 2021
I found the setting for this book (a stormy winter in Alaska, I’m freezing just typing the words) to be a really interesting backdrop for a vampire story, and I think I’ll stick with “really interesting” (in a good way, I promise) as my best descriptor for the story itself. There’s a lot of action, but not ambiguity– the bad guy is really bad, and it’s clear from the start– and a solid premise for a relationship under complicated circumstances between Leon the newly turned vampire and Ben the experienced tracker. It’s an easy book to get pulled into and an enjoyable reading experience overall– definitely worth checking out if the blurb appeals to you!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2022
I loved this book. Benjamin Coulton is a vampire tracker for the Consortium. He is sent to Alaska to investigate a rogue vampire killing people. Bad weather interferes with this investigation. He finds a newborn vampire left for dead by the vampire he's tasked with looking for. Can Ben unravel the mystery and save his mate before the rogue kills them all?
July 9, 2023
FREEZING AVERSION is the second book in the Consortium Trilogy and I would absolutely recommend you read it as a series, rather than a set of standalones.
I haven't read the first book and, as such, I was lost for a while. There is obviously a connection between those in the first and second books. Not only that but the Consortium itself. Because Benjamin was sent on a hunt without knowing the name of the vampire he tracked, it also made the beginning slightly confusing as I had no idea who was who until the story picked up and I was able to put the pieces together.
The link between Ben and Leon is a good one, but seemed to change overnight, as Ben goes from saying he likes Leon but doesn't feel the pull, to wanting nothing but him without any reason or circumstances given.
All in all, this was a good vampire read that may work better for those who have read the first book. B.L. Maxwell is an author who has written plenty of books that I have thoroughly enjoyed, and I have no hesitation in recommending her work, even if this one didn't fully work for me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 28,2021
I haven't read the first book and, as such, I was lost for a while. There is obviously a connection between those in the first and second books. Not only that but the Consortium itself. Because Benjamin was sent on a hunt without knowing the name of the vampire he tracked, it also made the beginning slightly confusing as I had no idea who was who until the story picked up and I was able to put the pieces together.
The link between Ben and Leon is a good one, but seemed to change overnight, as Ben goes from saying he likes Leon but doesn't feel the pull, to wanting nothing but him without any reason or circumstances given.
All in all, this was a good vampire read that may work better for those who have read the first book. B.L. Maxwell is an author who has written plenty of books that I have thoroughly enjoyed, and I have no hesitation in recommending her work, even if this one didn't fully work for me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 28,2021
January 5, 2022
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 2.5 Hearts
Goodreads rating says that 3 stars = I liked it, 2 stars = It was okay - I was confused by it.
As part of a vampire conglomerate, Benjamin is tasked with tracking a rogue vampire, possibly eliminating him and any he has made. Meeting the newborn, Leon, puts Benjamin in the role of teacher, but there is something about the man that draws Benjamin to him. Leon doesn’t want to be a vampire, he’d have preferred to stay dead instead of turned, but he’s also prepared to make the best of a bad situation, mainly because he is inexplicably drawn to Benjamin.
Freezing Aversion is the second book in the Consortium Trilogy, which in theory can be read as a standalone. However, it includes some crossover characters whose background adds more depth to the storyline. This paranormal romance is told in the first person entirely from the viewpoint of Benjamin. As such, it contains all his thoughts, fears, hopes and more.
The entire story is set in a snow-filled forest – therefore, world-building is more in the form of snippets from the laws and consequences within the vampire world.
My gut tells me that this book will be a bit of a marmite read. If you click with the style of writing and the world created, then you’ll eat up every word and want more. For me, I found it challenging to get a connection. There were lots of early explanations, which was great, then as the story progressed, all that was clarified was turned on its head – which left me in a no man’s land wondering what I could and could not believe – a state of mind that some will love and some hate. I also got sidetracked by small details that distracted me from the main arc. I constantly tried to sort out the main points from a story where most ‘believed’ truths were contradicted. My confusion was not helped by the slow revealing of essential information, leaving me to make assumptions until the facts were revealed.
Benjamin is billed as the best vampire tracker, yet there are many things he ‘can’t fathom’ and questions that would be ‘left for later’. He does a lot of, I should have done this, I should have done that, but for some reason I can’t fathom, I didn’t – which is cute to a degree, but I felt the concept was overused. So, I’m guessing Benjamin was finding his situation as confusing as me. Maybe that was the point of some of the drama.
Leon is a contradiction of a newborn, who is sweet, and whose inconsistent statements I kind of understood. One minute he wishes he’d been left for dead, and in the next, he’s saying that being a vampire is better than being dead, embracing his situation.
The bad vampire also has abilities that are the cherry topping on a whole bunch of thinking, already been turned on its head.
Now then, if all the above has confused you, then welcome to my state of mind while reading. I love a good mystery, but for me, this was one step too far in an agenda-driven, power play of a story full of revelations and trust issues. Sadly, it wasn’t for me, but as already said, I know some will bathe in all the misdirection.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
Goodreads rating says that 3 stars = I liked it, 2 stars = It was okay - I was confused by it.
As part of a vampire conglomerate, Benjamin is tasked with tracking a rogue vampire, possibly eliminating him and any he has made. Meeting the newborn, Leon, puts Benjamin in the role of teacher, but there is something about the man that draws Benjamin to him. Leon doesn’t want to be a vampire, he’d have preferred to stay dead instead of turned, but he’s also prepared to make the best of a bad situation, mainly because he is inexplicably drawn to Benjamin.
Freezing Aversion is the second book in the Consortium Trilogy, which in theory can be read as a standalone. However, it includes some crossover characters whose background adds more depth to the storyline. This paranormal romance is told in the first person entirely from the viewpoint of Benjamin. As such, it contains all his thoughts, fears, hopes and more.
The entire story is set in a snow-filled forest – therefore, world-building is more in the form of snippets from the laws and consequences within the vampire world.
My gut tells me that this book will be a bit of a marmite read. If you click with the style of writing and the world created, then you’ll eat up every word and want more. For me, I found it challenging to get a connection. There were lots of early explanations, which was great, then as the story progressed, all that was clarified was turned on its head – which left me in a no man’s land wondering what I could and could not believe – a state of mind that some will love and some hate. I also got sidetracked by small details that distracted me from the main arc. I constantly tried to sort out the main points from a story where most ‘believed’ truths were contradicted. My confusion was not helped by the slow revealing of essential information, leaving me to make assumptions until the facts were revealed.
Benjamin is billed as the best vampire tracker, yet there are many things he ‘can’t fathom’ and questions that would be ‘left for later’. He does a lot of, I should have done this, I should have done that, but for some reason I can’t fathom, I didn’t – which is cute to a degree, but I felt the concept was overused. So, I’m guessing Benjamin was finding his situation as confusing as me. Maybe that was the point of some of the drama.
Leon is a contradiction of a newborn, who is sweet, and whose inconsistent statements I kind of understood. One minute he wishes he’d been left for dead, and in the next, he’s saying that being a vampire is better than being dead, embracing his situation.
The bad vampire also has abilities that are the cherry topping on a whole bunch of thinking, already been turned on its head.
Now then, if all the above has confused you, then welcome to my state of mind while reading. I love a good mystery, but for me, this was one step too far in an agenda-driven, power play of a story full of revelations and trust issues. Sadly, it wasn’t for me, but as already said, I know some will bathe in all the misdirection.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
January 4, 2022
*I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review*
When vampire tracker Ben is tasked with finding a rogue vampire in icy Alaska, he instead discovers newly turned vampire Leon. Cruelly tortured and left for dead by his sire, Leon struggles to remember what happened and his human life. Deciding to protect him and help him to come to terms with his new existence, Ben now must finish his mission no matter what. Before the vampire he has been tracking comes for Leon.
I must admit I did struggle a bit when reading this novel. The premise is very good, and I liked the idea of a council of vampires overseeing the vampire world. The main character Ben is likeable and just wants to do what is right. His interactions with Leon were interesting to confusing at times. They have some sort of connection from the moment that they meet, but I felt as though the relationship was rushed and did not come off as very believable as a result.
I also found myself confused by all the characters’ objectives. Ben was to kill the rogue vampire and any vampires that he had turned, but then the orders somehow change to bringing him in alive, and then he can kill him again. Also, the rogue vampire did not seem to have any sort of plan apart from constantly attacking the heroes and disappearing again. He was supposed to be the strongest vampire who had escaped the Consortium’s prison, but he came across as more like a crazed animal with barely any semblance of control. This made it extremely difficult to believe that he could have come up with an escape plan, let alone carried it out.
I just felt that the whole thing was rushed, and this is a shame as there are some good ideas and characters, it just needs further development.
When vampire tracker Ben is tasked with finding a rogue vampire in icy Alaska, he instead discovers newly turned vampire Leon. Cruelly tortured and left for dead by his sire, Leon struggles to remember what happened and his human life. Deciding to protect him and help him to come to terms with his new existence, Ben now must finish his mission no matter what. Before the vampire he has been tracking comes for Leon.
I must admit I did struggle a bit when reading this novel. The premise is very good, and I liked the idea of a council of vampires overseeing the vampire world. The main character Ben is likeable and just wants to do what is right. His interactions with Leon were interesting to confusing at times. They have some sort of connection from the moment that they meet, but I felt as though the relationship was rushed and did not come off as very believable as a result.
I also found myself confused by all the characters’ objectives. Ben was to kill the rogue vampire and any vampires that he had turned, but then the orders somehow change to bringing him in alive, and then he can kill him again. Also, the rogue vampire did not seem to have any sort of plan apart from constantly attacking the heroes and disappearing again. He was supposed to be the strongest vampire who had escaped the Consortium’s prison, but he came across as more like a crazed animal with barely any semblance of control. This made it extremely difficult to believe that he could have come up with an escape plan, let alone carried it out.
I just felt that the whole thing was rushed, and this is a shame as there are some good ideas and characters, it just needs further development.
June 19, 2024
**3.75**
So, I can't really put my finger on why this isn't a 4 star for me but I can say I liked this book more than book one, which makes it more than 3.5....
This is the second book in the series and focuses on Ben who we met in book one. Now he's up in Alaska during winter and a snowstorm, hunting on The Consortium's orders. I prefer this book in that it stays with one character's POV.
Benjamin and Leon clicked for me straight away. There's a connection between them from their first meeting when Ben is hunting a newborn vampire and whoever sired them. Leon both does and does not act like a newborn vampire should which is confusing to Ben. Personally, I think it's the mate bond starting to work it's magic, keeping him calmer, though it's tougher when there is blood around. Things go from bad to worse though when Ben discovers who it is he is supposed to be hunting and that someone in The Consortium is lying.
The cat and mouse game played throughout the story is good, things going back and forth as to who is winning. Ben and Leon now have more to live for and are determined to put an end to things, Leon more so for what happened to him before he was turned. Things do get slightly confusing along the way as mind suggestions mean that on occasions, one or more of the characters is acting under instruction. I enjoyed how the plot of the story unfolded and the setting for it all seemed quite fitting for vampires, cold and isolated
While the story is good overall and I prefer this couple's slow burn romance, there is something that I just didn't really connect with. This holds me back from giving four stars but as things have improved for me so far, I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series.
So, I can't really put my finger on why this isn't a 4 star for me but I can say I liked this book more than book one, which makes it more than 3.5....
This is the second book in the series and focuses on Ben who we met in book one. Now he's up in Alaska during winter and a snowstorm, hunting on The Consortium's orders. I prefer this book in that it stays with one character's POV.
Benjamin and Leon clicked for me straight away. There's a connection between them from their first meeting when Ben is hunting a newborn vampire and whoever sired them. Leon both does and does not act like a newborn vampire should which is confusing to Ben. Personally, I think it's the mate bond starting to work it's magic, keeping him calmer, though it's tougher when there is blood around. Things go from bad to worse though when Ben discovers who it is he is supposed to be hunting and that someone in The Consortium is lying.
The cat and mouse game played throughout the story is good, things going back and forth as to who is winning. Ben and Leon now have more to live for and are determined to put an end to things, Leon more so for what happened to him before he was turned. Things do get slightly confusing along the way as mind suggestions mean that on occasions, one or more of the characters is acting under instruction. I enjoyed how the plot of the story unfolded and the setting for it all seemed quite fitting for vampires, cold and isolated
While the story is good overall and I prefer this couple's slow burn romance, there is something that I just didn't really connect with. This holds me back from giving four stars but as things have improved for me so far, I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series.
April 6, 2022
This is book 2 in the Consortium Trilogy and should best be read in order to fully appreciate the series.
Ben whom we have met in book one as 'the go to guy' for the consortium is hunting Samuel and happens to come across Leon in the most unusual circumstance, maybe not when you are a vampire, who turns out to be his mate. The hunt becomes intens and luckily Joel shows up and it takes a while before it is clear what his role is and if he is thrustworthy. Events happen and Ben has to make a major decision on behalf of Leon. Ben and Leon find their hea in this volume. However the chase to discover who, most likely within the consortium, really is behind all the deaths and vampire creations has yet to become clear. So I can't wait for book 3.
Audiobook:
This was my second book by narrator Allen Jeffries and I have to say I knew what to expect well done. And he created the right intensity throughout the story. 4*
I was given an audiobook through Booksprout and I am leaving my honest review.
Ben whom we have met in book one as 'the go to guy' for the consortium is hunting Samuel and happens to come across Leon in the most unusual circumstance, maybe not when you are a vampire, who turns out to be his mate. The hunt becomes intens and luckily Joel shows up and it takes a while before it is clear what his role is and if he is thrustworthy. Events happen and Ben has to make a major decision on behalf of Leon. Ben and Leon find their hea in this volume. However the chase to discover who, most likely within the consortium, really is behind all the deaths and vampire creations has yet to become clear. So I can't wait for book 3.
Audiobook:
This was my second book by narrator Allen Jeffries and I have to say I knew what to expect well done. And he created the right intensity throughout the story. 4*
I was given an audiobook through Booksprout and I am leaving my honest review.
April 8, 2022
Action-packed!
Fighting an ancient, evil, and deranged vampire in the freezing cold of Alaska and finding his mate in the process. That’s not at all what Benjamin expected when he was sent on his last assignment for the consortium, especially because the vampire in question was supposed to be safely held captive in the Consortium’s jail!
Action-packed vampire hunts and fights in the breath-taking, icy landscape of Alaska, this book is superbly narrated by the always awesome Allen Jeffries .
Fighting an ancient, evil, and deranged vampire in the freezing cold of Alaska and finding his mate in the process. That’s not at all what Benjamin expected when he was sent on his last assignment for the consortium, especially because the vampire in question was supposed to be safely held captive in the Consortium’s jail!
Action-packed vampire hunts and fights in the breath-taking, icy landscape of Alaska, this book is superbly narrated by the always awesome Allen Jeffries .
September 1, 2023
Hunting A Vampire
Ben is sent to the Yukon to find a rogue vampire. Joel is also sent there to find an escaped prisoner of the Consortium. Samuel is the one both are seeking. Unfortunately Samuel has a special power to influence your thoughts. Leon an innocent human is turned into a vampire by Samuel unintentionally. This is a fast moving story with plenty of danger, drama and mystery ending happily.
Ben is sent to the Yukon to find a rogue vampire. Joel is also sent there to find an escaped prisoner of the Consortium. Samuel is the one both are seeking. Unfortunately Samuel has a special power to influence your thoughts. Leon an innocent human is turned into a vampire by Samuel unintentionally. This is a fast moving story with plenty of danger, drama and mystery ending happily.
December 9, 2023
This is another good addition to the trilogy, it was so good to see Benjamin finally get his mate, him and Leon were perfect for each other and I’m glad that with the help of Joel that Samuel finally got what he deserved and the consortium needed to be reviewed. I’m really looking forward to the third book in this trilogy and hope Josh gets to meet his true mate and that all the consortium problems get sorted. Well worth a read.
June 11, 2025
Overall 5 STARS
Performance 4.5 STARS
Story 5 STARS
I had so much fun listening to Ben and Leon’s story. I was intrigued by Ben when he helped Lucas and Brennan in Book 1!
It was exciting, action packed, romantic, fun and all around thrilling from start to finish!
Allen Jeffries did a remarkable job narrating. I could feel all the emotions come to life.
Editing team could have cleaned it up a little better in a few spots but this may just be my sensitive hearing.
Performance 4.5 STARS
Story 5 STARS
I had so much fun listening to Ben and Leon’s story. I was intrigued by Ben when he helped Lucas and Brennan in Book 1!
It was exciting, action packed, romantic, fun and all around thrilling from start to finish!
Allen Jeffries did a remarkable job narrating. I could feel all the emotions come to life.
Editing team could have cleaned it up a little better in a few spots but this may just be my sensitive hearing.
January 5, 2022
The Consortium series is like a vampire version of the Games of Thrones. Except the plot is not as flushed out but still interesting. And the characters aren't as developed but still lovable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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