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Dark Brethren #1
Night's Cold Kiss
From Book 1:
For centuries war raged between the humans and Aeternus vampires—until courageous efforts on both sides forged a fragile peace.
But the rogue Necrodreniacs will never be controlled—addicted as they are to the death-high . . . and bloody chaos.
Since witnessing the murder of her mother, Antoinette Petrescu has burned with fiery hatred for the vampire race—even for Christian Laroque, the noble, dangerously handsome Aeternus who rescued her. Now an elite Venator, Antoinette must reluctantly accept Christian's help to achieve her vengeance—even as he plots to use the beautiful, unsuspecting warrior as bait to draw out the bloodthirsty dreniacs.
339 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2009
38 people are currently reading
3752 people want to read
About the author
Tracey O'Hara
14 books220 followersTracey O'Hara was born in Tasmania, Australia, but actually grew up in North and Far North Queensland. She discovered a passion for writing when researching her family history and started with an Australian colonial saga.
She grew up reading Stephen King, Raymond E. Feist, Frank Herbert, Isaac Asimov, and J. R. R. Tolkien, and developed her taste for adventure and the paranormal thriller. Her love of fantasy, horror, and science fictions soon had her exploring darker subject matter.
Tracey also enjoys listening to heavy metal, reading and writing, and watching action movies with her boys. She lives in Australia with her husband, two sons, and three cats. She is now working on her Dark Brethren Urban Fantasy series.
She grew up reading Stephen King, Raymond E. Feist, Frank Herbert, Isaac Asimov, and J. R. R. Tolkien, and developed her taste for adventure and the paranormal thriller. Her love of fantasy, horror, and science fictions soon had her exploring darker subject matter.
Tracey also enjoys listening to heavy metal, reading and writing, and watching action movies with her boys. She lives in Australia with her husband, two sons, and three cats. She is now working on her Dark Brethren Urban Fantasy series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
December 4, 2009
There are two kinds of vampire in the world: the Aeturnus, who after centuries of bloodshed forged a treaty with humans to live peaceably together; and the Necrodreniacs, those vampires who have become addicted to the high they get from killing humans, draining them dry. It is a distinction that Antoinette Petrescu, the legendary Venator whose job it is to hunt down and execute Necrodreniacs, has never been able to see, not since her mother was murdered and her father died.
But now a serial killer is running wild in New York, targeting women who look an awful lot like Antoinette, and she must team up with the Aeturnus Christian Laroque - who used to bear the nickname the Crimson Executioner. With the help of Christian's friend and fellow Aeturnus, Viktor, and a bear-shifter called Oberon, Antoinette and Christian follow all the leads they can find. But what Antoinette finds is more than she ever could have expected: she comes face to face with a ghost from her past, learns the truth of her family, and discovers that the difference between sexy Aeturnus Christian and a filthy Necrodreniac is as wide as an ocean.
This book is marketed as Urban fantasy but I found it in the Romance section - for once, I think the bookshop has it right. Though it was gritty, it had the happy romantic ending that is the trademark of romance novels, and several sex scenes scattered throughout. Looking at the cover and reading the blurb, I was prepared for a Night Huntress-type book - it's one of my favourite paranormal series, and I wouldn't mind something a bit similar, but this one can't compare.
There were a few issues. One, Antoinette could get pretty annoying in her stubbornness - and her violence. It didn't quite add up: one minute she's an intelligent, deadly Venator, the next she's throwing a tantrum like a five year old. It made it hard to give a toss what happened to her. Secondly, I didn't buy the chemistry between her and Christian. I wanted to like Christian - he had all the markings of a dark, charismatic, enigmatic, powerful man/vampire, but failed to deliver. I didn't care for the way he treated Antoinette either - the way he tended to treat her like a child, so perhaps it's not surprising she sometimes behaved like one.
Parts of the plot were predictable - it was easy to guess who was the mastermind behind it all. On the other hand, the structure of government and parahuman departments etc. were confusing as hell. If the series continues with Antoinette and Christian as the main characters, it might work out, but it it doesn't it'll lose it's edge, and our chance to see these characters grow and develop and mature (they need it).
There were parts I liked as well, though it's been several days since I read this and it's not a good sign that I can mostly only remember the negatives. The prose relies heavily on well-worn descriptive clichés but at least the grammar is sound (except it could have benefited from more semi-colons or the start of NEW sentences!). The pacing is good, with some nicely timed slower scenes amongst the chases and fights. There's some good atmosphere: dark and gritty and a bit smelly, violent and nasty. Sadly, with under-developed characters and a lack of emotional intensity, it doesn't work for me. The potential is there, but so were my high hopes and, now, my disappointment. It was a three-star book when I finished it, but after writing this I have to lower it. I simply can't justify 3 stars anymore.
But now a serial killer is running wild in New York, targeting women who look an awful lot like Antoinette, and she must team up with the Aeturnus Christian Laroque - who used to bear the nickname the Crimson Executioner. With the help of Christian's friend and fellow Aeturnus, Viktor, and a bear-shifter called Oberon, Antoinette and Christian follow all the leads they can find. But what Antoinette finds is more than she ever could have expected: she comes face to face with a ghost from her past, learns the truth of her family, and discovers that the difference between sexy Aeturnus Christian and a filthy Necrodreniac is as wide as an ocean.
This book is marketed as Urban fantasy but I found it in the Romance section - for once, I think the bookshop has it right. Though it was gritty, it had the happy romantic ending that is the trademark of romance novels, and several sex scenes scattered throughout. Looking at the cover and reading the blurb, I was prepared for a Night Huntress-type book - it's one of my favourite paranormal series, and I wouldn't mind something a bit similar, but this one can't compare.
There were a few issues. One, Antoinette could get pretty annoying in her stubbornness - and her violence. It didn't quite add up: one minute she's an intelligent, deadly Venator, the next she's throwing a tantrum like a five year old. It made it hard to give a toss what happened to her. Secondly, I didn't buy the chemistry between her and Christian. I wanted to like Christian - he had all the markings of a dark, charismatic, enigmatic, powerful man/vampire, but failed to deliver. I didn't care for the way he treated Antoinette either - the way he tended to treat her like a child, so perhaps it's not surprising she sometimes behaved like one.
Parts of the plot were predictable - it was easy to guess who was the mastermind behind it all. On the other hand, the structure of government and parahuman departments etc. were confusing as hell. If the series continues with Antoinette and Christian as the main characters, it might work out, but it it doesn't it'll lose it's edge, and our chance to see these characters grow and develop and mature (they need it).
There were parts I liked as well, though it's been several days since I read this and it's not a good sign that I can mostly only remember the negatives. The prose relies heavily on well-worn descriptive clichés but at least the grammar is sound (except it could have benefited from more semi-colons or the start of NEW sentences!). The pacing is good, with some nicely timed slower scenes amongst the chases and fights. There's some good atmosphere: dark and gritty and a bit smelly, violent and nasty. Sadly, with under-developed characters and a lack of emotional intensity, it doesn't work for me. The potential is there, but so were my high hopes and, now, my disappointment. It was a three-star book when I finished it, but after writing this I have to lower it. I simply can't justify 3 stars anymore.
June 14, 2010
So I picked up this book with no expectations, it had mixed reviews but I figured I'd give it a shot. The first few pages describe Antoinette, and to a lesser degree her brother Nici, on a mission. Antoinette is a Venator, meaning she is part of a group of humans hunting a type of creature called dreniacs. Supposedly from the opening and the blurb on the back I understood there's good vampires and bad vampires with the dreniacs being the 'bad' ones and a group called the Aeternus are the 'good' vampires. When Antoinette and her brother were children they were rescued by a Aeternus man called Christian. Some kind of shady dealings are going on with the Aeternus and Christian looks into it. This means Christian has to contact the Venators which gives him an opportunity to see Antoinette again. Antoinette see's Christian and is visibly upset and Christian leaves.
About right there I couldn't take it any more. Antoinette seemed an okay heroine but Christian's POV drove me nuts. He see's this woman whom he's barely seen since she was a little girl and immediately goes into descriptions of how he visions her naked and moaning. Eww. Maybe it's just me but he came off kind of ... sleazy to me. And the over-the-top descriptions were killing me. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
About right there I couldn't take it any more. Antoinette seemed an okay heroine but Christian's POV drove me nuts. He see's this woman whom he's barely seen since she was a little girl and immediately goes into descriptions of how he visions her naked and moaning. Eww. Maybe it's just me but he came off kind of ... sleazy to me. And the over-the-top descriptions were killing me. It just wasn't my cup of tea.
May 21, 2021
I didn't hate this book, but I can't say I liked it very much. Since it has some original ideas about paranormals, it felt all along like I should be enjoying it more than I was. Instead, it was like plunging through a confusing morass of melodrama in which neither the facts of this alternative world nor the characters' strong but inconsistent feelings made much sense.
And then at the end I discovered an encyclopedic "glossary of terms" in which all the elements of the author's world-building are stated clearly and succinctly. Had I but known it was there, I could have started with this paranormal encyclopedia, and then I might have enjoyed the story much more.
Even so, clarity of world-building would still leave us with all that melodrama. For example, a fairly exciting climax is followed by dozens of pages of characters working out their messy feelings, motivations, and relationships--spoiling an urban fantasy adventure, you might say, to fulfill the canons of paranormal romance. Blending the two genres is something Jeaniene Frost does rather well in the Night Huntress series and some of its spin-offs (hello, Mencheres and Kira), but here the UF and PNR elements get in each other's way.
First the world, then the story. Instead of vampires we have Aeternus and instead of weres there are Animalians, both types caused by hybridization for survival on the part of the Glarachni, who crash-landed on Earth thousands of years ago. Perplexing to me (though clearly stated), both Aeternus and Animalians develop as ordinary humans until age 25 or so when their parahuman nature comes out. Or doesn't ever appear, in which case they are Latents and can still pass parahuman DNA on to their children. (Yes, that's important in the story.)
Even more important is Necrodrenia, a so-called "death high" that any Aeternus gets if he/she drains all the blood from a human. Even one such experience creates an incurable addiction, and the addict, called a Necrodreniac or "dreniac" for short, will live only to kill again and again. The only solution is to kill the dreniac. Our main character Antoinette Petrescu is the champion Venator (meaning dreniac slayer), and more about that presently.
A human who wants to be immortal might talk an Aeternus into "embracing" (not "turning") them. But
So how about our main female character, Antoinette?
Dreniac slayer that she is, she uses sex to unwind. Forced into partnership with Christian (hate! enemy!) they quickly become addicted to sex with each other (numerous graphic sex scenes). A happy ending is predicted for romance fans, right? but she's hostile to him all the way to the last page; he just becomes more and more important to her as they go along.
Warning: my favorite character (and he might well be your favorite too) is killed halfway through the novel, for no good reason that would advance the plot. Boo. Hiss.
And then at the end I discovered an encyclopedic "glossary of terms" in which all the elements of the author's world-building are stated clearly and succinctly. Had I but known it was there, I could have started with this paranormal encyclopedia, and then I might have enjoyed the story much more.
Even so, clarity of world-building would still leave us with all that melodrama. For example, a fairly exciting climax is followed by dozens of pages of characters working out their messy feelings, motivations, and relationships--spoiling an urban fantasy adventure, you might say, to fulfill the canons of paranormal romance. Blending the two genres is something Jeaniene Frost does rather well in the Night Huntress series and some of its spin-offs (hello, Mencheres and Kira), but here the UF and PNR elements get in each other's way.
First the world, then the story. Instead of vampires we have Aeternus and instead of weres there are Animalians, both types caused by hybridization for survival on the part of the Glarachni, who crash-landed on Earth thousands of years ago. Perplexing to me (though clearly stated), both Aeternus and Animalians develop as ordinary humans until age 25 or so when their parahuman nature comes out. Or doesn't ever appear, in which case they are Latents and can still pass parahuman DNA on to their children. (Yes, that's important in the story.)
Even more important is Necrodrenia, a so-called "death high" that any Aeternus gets if he/she drains all the blood from a human. Even one such experience creates an incurable addiction, and the addict, called a Necrodreniac or "dreniac" for short, will live only to kill again and again. The only solution is to kill the dreniac. Our main character Antoinette Petrescu is the champion Venator (meaning dreniac slayer), and more about that presently.
A human who wants to be immortal might talk an Aeternus into "embracing" (not "turning") them. But
Most of those embraced died a very painful death as their body tore itself apart trying to adjust to the DNA changes. Humans--when would they learn? ...It wasn't against the law to embrace someone if they truly wanted it, but it was against the law to take payment for it. ...[And] to be embraced by a dreniac meant that, if the human survived, they would be infected with Necrodrenia...an all-too-familiar scenario.These are early musings by the main male character Christian, an important Aeturnus who was once the Crimson Executioner during the long wars between Aeturnus and humans. Even if the "embraced" human manages to survive, it is a long and very painful process. As in so many vampire stories, Christian does it here to save someone from certain death.
So how about our main female character, Antoinette?
"You're the youngest Venator to graduate the Academy [of Parahuman Studies] at the tender age of sixteen. Half the trophies in cabinet have your name on it {sic}. And every kid that graduates Venator training has tried to beat the record score you set in the Trials."It's ten years since she graduated and she's killed hundreds of dreniacs. But, as other reviewers have pointed out, (1) she sees no difference between a dreniac and a non-addicted Aeternus like Christian, (2) she's supposed to be this master dreniac slayer but she keeps needing to be rescued, and (3) except for the first chapter we see little indication of skills she might bring to the adventure.
Dreniac slayer that she is, she uses sex to unwind. Forced into partnership with Christian (hate! enemy!) they quickly become addicted to sex with each other (numerous graphic sex scenes). A happy ending is predicted for romance fans, right? but she's hostile to him all the way to the last page; he just becomes more and more important to her as they go along.
Warning: my favorite character (and he might well be your favorite too) is killed halfway through the novel, for no good reason that would advance the plot. Boo. Hiss.
May 26, 2012
Only one word to describe this book.
I almost dropped it, but the parallel story of the creepy serial killer (i'm talkin' criminal minds creepy) was enough to keep me hoping it would get better. Did it get better?Nope.
First, Christian was mondo creepy! He sees her take down some baddies and is in lusty fantasy mode after antoinette. Then before the bloods even dry grabs some blood slave and boinks her. Eeeewww! It doesn't stop there.
Our heroine is forced to work with christian to bring in the serial killer who killed her mother and is now stalking her dreams. She has some injury from her last fight and he goes all "I'll be your doctor". Ends up giving her his blood & five seconds later they are both climbing the walls with lust.
That is one thing, but he actually takes it to home plate. I mean he sexed her up in the bathroom. Even though he knows if she wasn't drugged she would be spouting hate poems to him. When she comes out of the haze does she kill him? No. She wants round two but doesn't go there. THANK YOU! I would have sent him out the airlock in little tiny pieces.
Then later on after they have started... whatever the hell it was they started. She is have sex with him and letting him bite and take blood from her. She doesn't want to get too intimate. What is too intimate you ask?? Sleeping in the same bed. What?!
The ups in this book are few and far, far, far between. The fights scenes aren't half bad (excluding the training scene when they rip each others close off.) Yup, they went there. The serial killer story line was fair to mildly interesting. Creepier than some others I've read.
I was so exasperated with the characters that it ruined the entire story for me.
I almost dropped it, but the parallel story of the creepy serial killer (i'm talkin' criminal minds creepy) was enough to keep me hoping it would get better. Did it get better?Nope.
First, Christian was mondo creepy! He sees her take down some baddies and is in lusty fantasy mode after antoinette. Then before the bloods even dry grabs some blood slave and boinks her. Eeeewww! It doesn't stop there.
Our heroine is forced to work with christian to bring in the serial killer who killed her mother and is now stalking her dreams. She has some injury from her last fight and he goes all "I'll be your doctor". Ends up giving her his blood & five seconds later they are both climbing the walls with lust.
That is one thing, but he actually takes it to home plate. I mean he sexed her up in the bathroom. Even though he knows if she wasn't drugged she would be spouting hate poems to him. When she comes out of the haze does she kill him? No. She wants round two but doesn't go there. THANK YOU! I would have sent him out the airlock in little tiny pieces.
Then later on after they have started... whatever the hell it was they started. She is have sex with him and letting him bite and take blood from her. She doesn't want to get too intimate. What is too intimate you ask?? Sleeping in the same bed. What?!
The ups in this book are few and far, far, far between. The fights scenes aren't half bad (excluding the training scene when they rip each others close off.) Yup, they went there. The serial killer story line was fair to mildly interesting. Creepier than some others I've read.
I was so exasperated with the characters that it ruined the entire story for me.
May 22, 2009
The lines are cut thin between good and evil, and trust and mistrust, in Tracey O'hara's creepy first Dark Brethren novel, Night's Cold Kiss.
A woman was murdered whilst her six-year-old daughter watched. Now all grown up, and an elite Venator, Antoinette Petruscu is haunted by the parahuman who murdered her mother. Supposedly he died in a fire, but that's looking unlikely, and it can't just be a coincidence that women who share common features with Antoinette are being murdered.
Keeping herself safe whilst investigating means teaming up with Christian Laroque, an Aeternus. Trained to hunt Necrodreniacs addicted to the death-high of draining a human completely whilst feeding, Antoinette is not exactly friendly with vampiric people. But this is a matter of life and death - eternal or otherwise.
Whilst this series's vampires have a decent dose of originality, they also examplify what I dislike most: blood-thrall. It has the sleaze of mind-rape, though the donors seem rather scarily into it. This never sits well with me, but please persist reading if you're struggling early on - the last half of the novel is engrossing. The less you know beforehand, the better your reading experience. I can't name my favourite characters because of their strong connections to major spoilers.
Though the author is Australian, the setting is American, and the only Aussies you'll find here are in the bar - unsurprising, really ;-)
The sci-fi elements are the real drawcards, raising this above most other vampire novels on the market. With memorable scenes and a particularly unforgettable character (you'll know when you meet her), Night's Cold Kiss kicks off a series with strong world-building, and hopefully much more science to come.
A woman was murdered whilst her six-year-old daughter watched. Now all grown up, and an elite Venator, Antoinette Petruscu is haunted by the parahuman who murdered her mother. Supposedly he died in a fire, but that's looking unlikely, and it can't just be a coincidence that women who share common features with Antoinette are being murdered.
Keeping herself safe whilst investigating means teaming up with Christian Laroque, an Aeternus. Trained to hunt Necrodreniacs addicted to the death-high of draining a human completely whilst feeding, Antoinette is not exactly friendly with vampiric people. But this is a matter of life and death - eternal or otherwise.
Whilst this series's vampires have a decent dose of originality, they also examplify what I dislike most: blood-thrall. It has the sleaze of mind-rape, though the donors seem rather scarily into it. This never sits well with me, but please persist reading if you're struggling early on - the last half of the novel is engrossing. The less you know beforehand, the better your reading experience. I can't name my favourite characters because of their strong connections to major spoilers.
Though the author is Australian, the setting is American, and the only Aussies you'll find here are in the bar - unsurprising, really ;-)
The sci-fi elements are the real drawcards, raising this above most other vampire novels on the market. With memorable scenes and a particularly unforgettable character (you'll know when you meet her), Night's Cold Kiss kicks off a series with strong world-building, and hopefully much more science to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2009
Synopsis
For centuries war raged between the humans and Aeternus vampires—until courageous efforts on both sides forged a fragile peace.
But the rogue Necrodreniacs will never be controlled—addicted as they are to the death-high… and bloody
chaos.
Since witnessing the murder of her mother, Antoinette Petrescu has burned with fiery hatred for the vampire race—even for Christian Laroque, the noble, dangerously handsome Aeternus who rescued her. Now an elite Venator, Antoinette must reluctantly accept Christian's help to achieve her vengeance—even as he plots to use the beautiful, unsuspecting warrior as bait to draw out the bloodthirsty dreniacs.
My thoughts
Night’s Cold Kiss is the first installment in the Dark Brethren series by Tracey O`Hara and introduces readers to Antoinette Petrescu, a Venator paid to hunt rogue vampires.
Antoinette's world is similar to ours in many ways only Supernatural beings are a everyday fact and not a fairy tale. The strange an unusual isn't so strange in this world. Supernatural live in an unconfertable
harmoney with the humans. Night’s Cold Kiss is written in third person, mostly from Antoinette’s point of view. The characters, Antoinette and Christian in particular, are well-rounded, and have good detailing with their histories. I got easily attached to the characters and I found Christian very likable, despite his obvious flaws.
This book is action-packed and full of great romance. I find O`Hara is off to a great start and in her world of
supernatural beings, there's more than meets the eye. This vamp Romance should please many supernatural and romance fans. I cannot wait to see more of her world and of the characters.
For centuries war raged between the humans and Aeternus vampires—until courageous efforts on both sides forged a fragile peace.
But the rogue Necrodreniacs will never be controlled—addicted as they are to the death-high… and bloody
chaos.
Since witnessing the murder of her mother, Antoinette Petrescu has burned with fiery hatred for the vampire race—even for Christian Laroque, the noble, dangerously handsome Aeternus who rescued her. Now an elite Venator, Antoinette must reluctantly accept Christian's help to achieve her vengeance—even as he plots to use the beautiful, unsuspecting warrior as bait to draw out the bloodthirsty dreniacs.
My thoughts
Night’s Cold Kiss is the first installment in the Dark Brethren series by Tracey O`Hara and introduces readers to Antoinette Petrescu, a Venator paid to hunt rogue vampires.
Antoinette's world is similar to ours in many ways only Supernatural beings are a everyday fact and not a fairy tale. The strange an unusual isn't so strange in this world. Supernatural live in an unconfertable
harmoney with the humans. Night’s Cold Kiss is written in third person, mostly from Antoinette’s point of view. The characters, Antoinette and Christian in particular, are well-rounded, and have good detailing with their histories. I got easily attached to the characters and I found Christian very likable, despite his obvious flaws.
This book is action-packed and full of great romance. I find O`Hara is off to a great start and in her world of
supernatural beings, there's more than meets the eye. This vamp Romance should please many supernatural and romance fans. I cannot wait to see more of her world and of the characters.
July 10, 2010
Thoughts:
This is another title were the vampires are aliens, as a twist it also includes the shifter races. In the case of this read, the reader is given more information and it ends up being one of the better concepts for vampires are aliens. The world and history that has shaped earth by living with these creatures really clicks and O'hara gives good details on past events. Giving the reader the foot holds in the history so that you can understand the politics that are occurring. The law enforcement divisions that were created because of the different species is put together well. They work nice together, but still end up segregated. Of course there's always those crazy worshiping groupies and then the vampire haters. After all a book where the vampires are out of the coffin, will never be complete with out them. There are also other nice touches to how society is shaped around vampires, like human donors and other treats along the way.
Antoinette is a character that is so kick ass, that she reminds me of a very early Anita Blake. Antoinette is hard headed and hates vampires. She's never been able to find the difference between a rouge vampire and a “tame” vampire. Thankfully this annoying self righteous phase, is soon past and she evolves above prejudices. Some of the finest character growth happens in this book. Just love it when a character grows with the events that are shaping the book. Of course, she wouldn't be any kind of decent vampire hunter with out her mad fighting skills, and when in trouble can come up with a plan fast. Making for very nice action scenes.
Sadly Antoinette jumps into the sack a little to fast with our dashing hero Christian. Where's the suspense? I love it when I get to the point were the character is feeling the love. I absolutely hate it when the author uses some form of magic for the two love interests to jump into bed together, and then one of them—or both—ends up loathing that event. Then we spend a huge amount of time with the character getting over how that jerk tricked them into bed. This ploy is getting old.
A downer to this book is that the plot was average, it felt like a typical Urban Fantasy story line. I could see all of the major plot twist about 50 pages into the book. (Only that far in because one of the secret evil villains needed to grace the pages.) Still, even though you could see the big plot twists coming, O'hara managed to make them exciting. Bravo. Saddly, I still ending up putting this book down for a month 50 pages from the end. Right in the middle of the climax.
At certain points in this book I was wondering to myself, is this turning into a PNR. Don't get me wrong, I love PNR. Some of my favorite authors write the stuff. How ever an experienced UF fan and PNR fan knows the difference. When the book states it's UF on the spine, that's what you expected. When a reader is wondering if their book is changing genres, it tends to take away from the build up. Well, at least for me.
“It's just sex, right?” is thrown around a lot in this book. If you keep asking yourself that it might not be. Honestly I couldn't feel the characters falling in love. The ending concludes that they do, but it feels like it will be another book—or two—before that kind of feeling can emerge. In fact, when the whole dramatic I-love-you scene happened, I was trying to locate the jump from “It's just sex, right?” to I'll die for you love.
You know how you fall in love with that fantastic side character? A character that doesn't make too many appearances, but ends up being the one you're reading for. Well I found that character, sadly my suspicions were right and the poor bastard got axed. I hate that, it didn't even add to the suspense or grief factor I just felt betrayed. Another petty compliant on my part. Why create such a great character just to kill them? Why? At least I could console my self with some other fun side characters. Namely a hot bear shifter,who isn't afraid to be nude, and is all leather and Harley. Hmm-mmm!
Some small little things that I liked about this book that just tickled me:
-Loved the chapter headers. They never gave anything away, but were great teasers.
Chapter 9 - Arena of Heros and Fools
-Great one liners. Sharp tongues to go with some sharp characters.
Bottom Line:
Sadly I haven't heard much about this book. In fact, I've only seen it twice. Once on an Amazon post were I discovered it, and again on someone's wish list a while back. Though I believe this book suffers from being to generic to the genre of Urban Fantasy, it has a lot of potential. Compared to some of the bad reads in the genre, this is the bomb. More importantly, if your looking for the best of what Anita Blake had to offer, I'd have to say this is the closet I've seen to getting what I miss most about dear Blake. Though, I need to give credit to Antoinette, because she is not just a Blake mold, she really stands on her own. Plus, the ladies will love our male hotty, Christain. The writing is solid, the wit is sharp enough to bring many good times a head. (Have to be honest I wanted to give it a 4, but the fact that I was able to put it down for a whole month and it didn't bother me was too much.)
Sexual Content:
Some graphic sex scenes a head.
3/5- Good, I liked it.
This is another title were the vampires are aliens, as a twist it also includes the shifter races. In the case of this read, the reader is given more information and it ends up being one of the better concepts for vampires are aliens. The world and history that has shaped earth by living with these creatures really clicks and O'hara gives good details on past events. Giving the reader the foot holds in the history so that you can understand the politics that are occurring. The law enforcement divisions that were created because of the different species is put together well. They work nice together, but still end up segregated. Of course there's always those crazy worshiping groupies and then the vampire haters. After all a book where the vampires are out of the coffin, will never be complete with out them. There are also other nice touches to how society is shaped around vampires, like human donors and other treats along the way.
Antoinette is a character that is so kick ass, that she reminds me of a very early Anita Blake. Antoinette is hard headed and hates vampires. She's never been able to find the difference between a rouge vampire and a “tame” vampire. Thankfully this annoying self righteous phase, is soon past and she evolves above prejudices. Some of the finest character growth happens in this book. Just love it when a character grows with the events that are shaping the book. Of course, she wouldn't be any kind of decent vampire hunter with out her mad fighting skills, and when in trouble can come up with a plan fast. Making for very nice action scenes.
Sadly Antoinette jumps into the sack a little to fast with our dashing hero Christian. Where's the suspense? I love it when I get to the point were the character is feeling the love. I absolutely hate it when the author uses some form of magic for the two love interests to jump into bed together, and then one of them—or both—ends up loathing that event. Then we spend a huge amount of time with the character getting over how that jerk tricked them into bed. This ploy is getting old.
A downer to this book is that the plot was average, it felt like a typical Urban Fantasy story line. I could see all of the major plot twist about 50 pages into the book. (Only that far in because one of the secret evil villains needed to grace the pages.) Still, even though you could see the big plot twists coming, O'hara managed to make them exciting. Bravo. Saddly, I still ending up putting this book down for a month 50 pages from the end. Right in the middle of the climax.
At certain points in this book I was wondering to myself, is this turning into a PNR. Don't get me wrong, I love PNR. Some of my favorite authors write the stuff. How ever an experienced UF fan and PNR fan knows the difference. When the book states it's UF on the spine, that's what you expected. When a reader is wondering if their book is changing genres, it tends to take away from the build up. Well, at least for me.
“It's just sex, right?” is thrown around a lot in this book. If you keep asking yourself that it might not be. Honestly I couldn't feel the characters falling in love. The ending concludes that they do, but it feels like it will be another book—or two—before that kind of feeling can emerge. In fact, when the whole dramatic I-love-you scene happened, I was trying to locate the jump from “It's just sex, right?” to I'll die for you love.
You know how you fall in love with that fantastic side character? A character that doesn't make too many appearances, but ends up being the one you're reading for. Well I found that character, sadly my suspicions were right and the poor bastard got axed. I hate that, it didn't even add to the suspense or grief factor I just felt betrayed. Another petty compliant on my part. Why create such a great character just to kill them? Why? At least I could console my self with some other fun side characters. Namely a hot bear shifter,who isn't afraid to be nude, and is all leather and Harley. Hmm-mmm!
Some small little things that I liked about this book that just tickled me:
-Loved the chapter headers. They never gave anything away, but were great teasers.
Chapter 9 - Arena of Heros and Fools
-Great one liners. Sharp tongues to go with some sharp characters.
Bottom Line:
Sadly I haven't heard much about this book. In fact, I've only seen it twice. Once on an Amazon post were I discovered it, and again on someone's wish list a while back. Though I believe this book suffers from being to generic to the genre of Urban Fantasy, it has a lot of potential. Compared to some of the bad reads in the genre, this is the bomb. More importantly, if your looking for the best of what Anita Blake had to offer, I'd have to say this is the closet I've seen to getting what I miss most about dear Blake. Though, I need to give credit to Antoinette, because she is not just a Blake mold, she really stands on her own. Plus, the ladies will love our male hotty, Christain. The writing is solid, the wit is sharp enough to bring many good times a head. (Have to be honest I wanted to give it a 4, but the fact that I was able to put it down for a whole month and it didn't bother me was too much.)
Sexual Content:
Some graphic sex scenes a head.
3/5- Good, I liked it.
November 29, 2010
Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life
At first look I thought this was an Urban Fantasy novel and it said so in the spine of the book as well, however it turned out to be more of a Paranormal Romance. After I got over the initial gear shift, I ended up enjoying Night’s Cold Kiss, a lot!
Antoinette is a Vanetor, a hunter of the creatures of the night who can’t control their inner beast. She has been training her whole life for this and her hatred for the Dreniacs has only fueled her determination to be the best hunter she can be.
As a six-year-old kid, Antoinette witnessed her mother’s brutal murder and had to deal with her father’s death in an accident after he hunted and killed her mother’s murderer. Over 16 years later and Antoinette hasn’t gotten over her past and starts seeing that monster from long ago again, but the only thing scarier than having those nightmares is realizing that she is awake.
Christian is a Aeternus, a vampire, and he was the one who took Antoinette and her brother as kids to a safe place, after their mother’s death. Christian has a past of his own that he has to deal with, but he is brought back to Antoinette when a series of cases start to look like The Troubles of 16 years ago and he needs her on the case.
Even though the names for the several paranormal creatures threw me for a loop sometimes, I really enjoyed getting to know Antoinette and Christian. They are very interesting and complicated characters and it was a pleasure to go on this journey with them, seeing them getting over their own ghosts and finding something special with each other.
The plot of Night’s Cold Kiss was very intricate and kept me on my toes, even though I kind of guessed the big twist, it wasn’t obvious and if I wasn’t quite used to mistrusting even the nicest character, I would never have guessed it.
Night’s Cold Kiss is full of action and I could not put it down. I would have preferred to have seen the glossary that is at the end, at the beginning, to avoid some confusion, but after I got used to the amazing world Tracey built, it didn’t bothered me much.
One of the things I really liked about Night’s Cold Kiss is that even though it is a Paranormal Romance, it doesn’t fall into the genre’s clichés and it has a bigger Urban Fantasy vibe than most. I am really looking forward to reading the sequel, Death’s Sweet Embrace. Even though it will focus on another couple’s story, I can’t wait to see Antoinette and Christian again, even on the background.
At first look I thought this was an Urban Fantasy novel and it said so in the spine of the book as well, however it turned out to be more of a Paranormal Romance. After I got over the initial gear shift, I ended up enjoying Night’s Cold Kiss, a lot!
Antoinette is a Vanetor, a hunter of the creatures of the night who can’t control their inner beast. She has been training her whole life for this and her hatred for the Dreniacs has only fueled her determination to be the best hunter she can be.
As a six-year-old kid, Antoinette witnessed her mother’s brutal murder and had to deal with her father’s death in an accident after he hunted and killed her mother’s murderer. Over 16 years later and Antoinette hasn’t gotten over her past and starts seeing that monster from long ago again, but the only thing scarier than having those nightmares is realizing that she is awake.
Christian is a Aeternus, a vampire, and he was the one who took Antoinette and her brother as kids to a safe place, after their mother’s death. Christian has a past of his own that he has to deal with, but he is brought back to Antoinette when a series of cases start to look like The Troubles of 16 years ago and he needs her on the case.
Even though the names for the several paranormal creatures threw me for a loop sometimes, I really enjoyed getting to know Antoinette and Christian. They are very interesting and complicated characters and it was a pleasure to go on this journey with them, seeing them getting over their own ghosts and finding something special with each other.
The plot of Night’s Cold Kiss was very intricate and kept me on my toes, even though I kind of guessed the big twist, it wasn’t obvious and if I wasn’t quite used to mistrusting even the nicest character, I would never have guessed it.
Night’s Cold Kiss is full of action and I could not put it down. I would have preferred to have seen the glossary that is at the end, at the beginning, to avoid some confusion, but after I got used to the amazing world Tracey built, it didn’t bothered me much.
One of the things I really liked about Night’s Cold Kiss is that even though it is a Paranormal Romance, it doesn’t fall into the genre’s clichés and it has a bigger Urban Fantasy vibe than most. I am really looking forward to reading the sequel, Death’s Sweet Embrace. Even though it will focus on another couple’s story, I can’t wait to see Antoinette and Christian again, even on the background.
July 2, 2019
First off this is a UF. Before the h/H meet we see the hero have a sexual/blood exchange encounter. At the start the heroine also comes across as obsessed and very prejudiced against vampires but as the book moves on I liked her. As with UF there are instances of sexual violence/molestation against the heroine which bothered me, and I suspected who the bad guy was, but not bad. Since my usual contemporaries aren't working for me I decided to switch genres.
December 2, 2010
When I held Night's Cold Kiss in my hands for the first time I was immediately impressed. The book looks impressive and when I started to skim through it I discovered the Glossary at the end. I thought wow that really looks like some serious world-building and the book didn't disappoint in that department. But let's start at the beginning.
We are thrown in the middle of a world full of paranormal creatures living in a more or less peaceful coexistence with the human population. There are organisations on both sites to keep an eye on the fragile peace and to punish those who break the line. The biggest problem are the Draniacs, vampires who turned crazy after feeling the "death rush" while draining someone completely. They turn into mindless killing machines who go rampant on a killing spree. But there is a group of humans who protect us from this threat- the Venators and our heroine is one of them.
Antoinette is a kick ass heroine with some baggage of her own. Her mother was killed by a necrodreniac who made the small Antoinette watch her mother die a slow and painful death. No wonder Antoinette is now full of prejudices and hates vampires in general with all her might. Not only this makes her into the best Venator out there and her goal is to kill as many of those vampires as she can. Antoinette is stubborn as hell and at some points she shows a rather unbecoming childish streak. But she is also an unbelievably strong woman ,compassionate for those she loves and no matter what she wants to keep the rest of her family together. For outsiders she seems to be untouchable. Her attitude shows and she can't hide her disdain for the vampire population in general. When she meets Christian and Victor she doesn't seem to be able to stop herself from judging them. With time she discovers her missjudgment but old habbits die hard.
Christian is a mysterious and very old vampire. He has big secrets in his past but all in all he is a nice guy. He learned to be in control of himself and Antoinette seems to shortcircuit that ability. He tries to keep his attraction for her in check but I have to say he's not doing such a good job. I was really intrigued by this character at first but unfortunately in the middle of the story his character was pushed a bit into the background. I would have loved to read more about him.
And then we have Victor- he's Christian's best friend but nothing like the brooding hero. He's a wonderful funny and witty character but for my taste his description was a bit too androgynous to be attractive. But I loved him nonetheles. His way to banter with Antoinette gave this book a wonderful funny side, something to light up your mood between all those fights and bloodshed. He also has that wonderful beast of a dog, Cerebrus and I just loved that one too.
The sidecast in general was very intriguing and variying. Each and every single character had a distinct feel to them- this made Night's Cold Kiss extra vibrant for me. I love to see the different facets and even more like the compulsion to discover their own secret agenda. That's always the most fun for me in one of those novels full of political intrigues. One of the characters I loved the most is Kavendish the mysterious butler. Very entertaining character.
Again I have to say I thought the end was a bit too easy and the last scene threw me off even more. I would have never seen that coming but it makes me even more curious for book 2, Death's Sweet Embrace.
An urban fantasy novel with an awesome world-building, captivating characters and a fast paced story. Night's Cold Kiss is urban fantasy at its best and it even has a bit of romance to sweeten the deal. I can't wait to read more.
We are thrown in the middle of a world full of paranormal creatures living in a more or less peaceful coexistence with the human population. There are organisations on both sites to keep an eye on the fragile peace and to punish those who break the line. The biggest problem are the Draniacs, vampires who turned crazy after feeling the "death rush" while draining someone completely. They turn into mindless killing machines who go rampant on a killing spree. But there is a group of humans who protect us from this threat- the Venators and our heroine is one of them.
Antoinette is a kick ass heroine with some baggage of her own. Her mother was killed by a necrodreniac who made the small Antoinette watch her mother die a slow and painful death. No wonder Antoinette is now full of prejudices and hates vampires in general with all her might. Not only this makes her into the best Venator out there and her goal is to kill as many of those vampires as she can. Antoinette is stubborn as hell and at some points she shows a rather unbecoming childish streak. But she is also an unbelievably strong woman ,compassionate for those she loves and no matter what she wants to keep the rest of her family together. For outsiders she seems to be untouchable. Her attitude shows and she can't hide her disdain for the vampire population in general. When she meets Christian and Victor she doesn't seem to be able to stop herself from judging them. With time she discovers her missjudgment but old habbits die hard.
Christian is a mysterious and very old vampire. He has big secrets in his past but all in all he is a nice guy. He learned to be in control of himself and Antoinette seems to shortcircuit that ability. He tries to keep his attraction for her in check but I have to say he's not doing such a good job. I was really intrigued by this character at first but unfortunately in the middle of the story his character was pushed a bit into the background. I would have loved to read more about him.
And then we have Victor- he's Christian's best friend but nothing like the brooding hero. He's a wonderful funny and witty character but for my taste his description was a bit too androgynous to be attractive. But I loved him nonetheles. His way to banter with Antoinette gave this book a wonderful funny side, something to light up your mood between all those fights and bloodshed. He also has that wonderful beast of a dog, Cerebrus and I just loved that one too.
The sidecast in general was very intriguing and variying. Each and every single character had a distinct feel to them- this made Night's Cold Kiss extra vibrant for me. I love to see the different facets and even more like the compulsion to discover their own secret agenda. That's always the most fun for me in one of those novels full of political intrigues. One of the characters I loved the most is Kavendish the mysterious butler. Very entertaining character.
Again I have to say I thought the end was a bit too easy and the last scene threw me off even more. I would have never seen that coming but it makes me even more curious for book 2, Death's Sweet Embrace.
An urban fantasy novel with an awesome world-building, captivating characters and a fast paced story. Night's Cold Kiss is urban fantasy at its best and it even has a bit of romance to sweeten the deal. I can't wait to read more.
January 23, 2012
A sheep in a wolf's clothes. No, I did not made a mistake. I just wrote that. A PNR doing its best, worst to appear UF.
Cover, heroine, blurb, plot: every thing pointed toward UF. I was already panting....Alas, this is a PNR and an old one at that. I'm sure lots of fans will be able to appreciate it. UF fans, don't think much. I found so many scenes boring, I skipped a few paragraph and almost went DNF.
Unfortunately I prefer my characters sticking to their description, I'm particularly fussy with my leading ladies. I do expect them to be strong, intelligent, coherent.
Here we have the so called "best hunter" ever, who hates vampires and, what, it takes her 30 seconds to shag one (in a scene so much resembling a date/drug "rape" as in being slightly unpleasant. Yep, if she is that drunk/in thrall, it's not consensual....) and, even less, to start considering them "human". (She has been compared to an early Anita, but it took her 6 books to overcome her hatred .)
I really appreciate a character's growth, above all when she is growing out of bigotry. But it has to be believable. Here nothing is: her reaction to a family betrayal (actually more than one), her reaction to Christian, her reaction to Christian's actions. Rage is useless, but it is believable. Betrayal is hurting, but again believable. Behaving as nothing really happened after few token words. Nope. It's not.
She's supposedly killed 140 bad vamps, but she has to be saved every single time she meets the bad guys, once even by a dog. And she can't really fight back. How did she survive the killing if she is so easily thralled by one (2 considering the early bathroom scene with Christian)? Meh.
Christian, Victor... they really make me miss the old style vamps. And oh my God, can we please skip this mania of vamps as aliens, please? And also repeating ten times a page pseudo freudian phrases like “It's just sex, right?”. She's not a teenager. Definitely, he is not a teenager!
Cover, heroine, blurb, plot: every thing pointed toward UF. I was already panting....Alas, this is a PNR and an old one at that. I'm sure lots of fans will be able to appreciate it. UF fans, don't think much. I found so many scenes boring, I skipped a few paragraph and almost went DNF.
Unfortunately I prefer my characters sticking to their description, I'm particularly fussy with my leading ladies. I do expect them to be strong, intelligent, coherent.
Here we have the so called "best hunter" ever, who hates vampires and, what, it takes her 30 seconds to shag one (in a scene so much resembling a date/drug "rape" as in being slightly unpleasant. Yep, if she is that drunk/in thrall, it's not consensual....) and, even less, to start considering them "human". (She has been compared to an early Anita, but it took her 6 books to overcome her hatred .)
I really appreciate a character's growth, above all when she is growing out of bigotry. But it has to be believable. Here nothing is: her reaction to a family betrayal (actually more than one), her reaction to Christian, her reaction to Christian's actions. Rage is useless, but it is believable. Betrayal is hurting, but again believable. Behaving as nothing really happened after few token words. Nope. It's not.
She's supposedly killed 140 bad vamps, but she has to be saved every single time she meets the bad guys, once even by a dog. And she can't really fight back. How did she survive the killing if she is so easily thralled by one (2 considering the early bathroom scene with Christian)? Meh.
Christian, Victor... they really make me miss the old style vamps. And oh my God, can we please skip this mania of vamps as aliens, please? And also repeating ten times a page pseudo freudian phrases like “It's just sex, right?”. She's not a teenager. Definitely, he is not a teenager!
January 8, 2010
Night's Cold Kiss is the first book in the Dark Brethren Series.
Antoinette Petrescu is a Venator, a highly trained vampire hunter. Vampires come in two types: Aeternus - regular vampires, and Dreniacs - vampires who drink until they kill the human. While Antoinette has been trained to fight Dreniacs, she doesn't like Aeternus vampires either. Her mother was killed by a Dreniac in front of her when Antoinette was a child and therefore she has an obsessive hatred of all vampires.
When Antoinette is charged to a mission partnering with an Aeternus, Christian Laroque, she is vehemently opposed but is overruled by her superiors. On the way to the mission, Christian discoveres Antoinette has been injured in a recent vampire attack and it's become infected. He makes a poultice to heal it, which includes some of his blood. Apparently vampire blood is a powerful aphrodisiac and they have hot vamp sex in the airplane. Once vampires go into Blood-thrall (intense sexual arousal) they must complete the act for relief. Naturally when she comes down off her vamp-blood thrall Antoinette is mortified. Christian is confused because the sex with Antoinette was unusually powerful. The romantic tension between them zinged throughout the rest of the book as Antoinette is attracted to Christian and fights her prejudice against vampires.
While investigating some mysterious deaths of females - they all look like Antoinette - some of her superiors are attacked. Antoinette witnesses the attacks; they were attacked by the vampire who killed her mother. He's supposed to be dead - permanently! No one believes Antoinette and she is briefly a suspect.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I liked this story - there were a couple of twists I didn't see coming. The death of one particular character was so sad, and the bad guy was not who I thought it was. I'll be on the lookout for book 2 - Death's Sweet Embrace, to be released in September 2010.
Antoinette Petrescu is a Venator, a highly trained vampire hunter. Vampires come in two types: Aeternus - regular vampires, and Dreniacs - vampires who drink until they kill the human. While Antoinette has been trained to fight Dreniacs, she doesn't like Aeternus vampires either. Her mother was killed by a Dreniac in front of her when Antoinette was a child and therefore she has an obsessive hatred of all vampires.
When Antoinette is charged to a mission partnering with an Aeternus, Christian Laroque, she is vehemently opposed but is overruled by her superiors. On the way to the mission, Christian discoveres Antoinette has been injured in a recent vampire attack and it's become infected. He makes a poultice to heal it, which includes some of his blood. Apparently vampire blood is a powerful aphrodisiac and they have hot vamp sex in the airplane. Once vampires go into Blood-thrall (intense sexual arousal) they must complete the act for relief. Naturally when she comes down off her vamp-blood thrall Antoinette is mortified. Christian is confused because the sex with Antoinette was unusually powerful. The romantic tension between them zinged throughout the rest of the book as Antoinette is attracted to Christian and fights her prejudice against vampires.
While investigating some mysterious deaths of females - they all look like Antoinette - some of her superiors are attacked. Antoinette witnesses the attacks; they were attacked by the vampire who killed her mother. He's supposed to be dead - permanently! No one believes Antoinette and she is briefly a suspect.
I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I liked this story - there were a couple of twists I didn't see coming. The death of one particular character was so sad, and the bad guy was not who I thought it was. I'll be on the lookout for book 2 - Death's Sweet Embrace, to be released in September 2010.
January 9, 2011
About 50 pages into this one, I realized that there had been some ridiculously amazing leap in quality between the first and second entries into this series, because this wasn't the same interesting, crime-drama-type story I'd been drawn into in Death's Sweet Embrace. This was Cliched Fantasy Kitchen Sink World B, with Cliched Vampire Hunter Love Story A, filled with stock characters and strung together with a plot whose primary agenda seemed to be furthering the leads' love-to-hate-you romance.
Like the summary says, Night's Cold Kiss is about Antoinette Petrescu, an elite vampire hunter Venator. She's a great big obvious Mary Sue/genre cliche, being a prodigally good vampire hunter from a long line of vampire hunters who entered into the trade because - all together now - vampires murdered her parents! That's right, very good, guys!
Anyway, let's go down the line, shall we? Antoinette:
* graduated vampire hunter university at 16 to become the youngest licensed Venator ever
* holds every record (no lie) at said college, including the best time for completing the notoriously difficult final exam
* finished up her vampire hunter internship in less than half the time it takes those shitty normal people
* uses a katana in her one and only action scene to dispatch a vampire, even though guns do it better
* is a hothead and prone to fights and emotionless one-night stands because that's how badass women roll
* is also friendless because her aloof awesomeness has turned people off to her all her life
and finally:
* is the hottest thing to ever walk the face of the earth
I don't think I'm exaggerating the canon opinion much here, because honest to God, the author goes on and on about Antoinette's astounding beauty, even more than she does about the vampire love interest...
Read more at: You're Killing.Us.
Like the summary says, Night's Cold Kiss is about Antoinette Petrescu, an elite vampire hunter Venator. She's a great big obvious Mary Sue/genre cliche, being a prodigally good vampire hunter from a long line of vampire hunters who entered into the trade because - all together now - vampires murdered her parents! That's right, very good, guys!
Anyway, let's go down the line, shall we? Antoinette:
* graduated vampire hunter university at 16 to become the youngest licensed Venator ever
* holds every record (no lie) at said college, including the best time for completing the notoriously difficult final exam
* finished up her vampire hunter internship in less than half the time it takes those shitty normal people
* uses a katana in her one and only action scene to dispatch a vampire, even though guns do it better
* is a hothead and prone to fights and emotionless one-night stands because that's how badass women roll
* is also friendless because her aloof awesomeness has turned people off to her all her life
and finally:
* is the hottest thing to ever walk the face of the earth
I don't think I'm exaggerating the canon opinion much here, because honest to God, the author goes on and on about Antoinette's astounding beauty, even more than she does about the vampire love interest...
Read more at: You're Killing.Us.
August 13, 2011
This was an impulse pick up at the library and what a fun ride this was.
I'm not sure if I'd classify this as urban fantasy though. It's more paranormal romance. And when you hit the sex scenes, it's more like an erotic paranormal romance.
Antoinette is tough and hell-bent on avenging her mother's death. Her brother is oh-so-conveniently off to London to work for some big-wig vampire hunting thing because now Antoinette has to hook up with big bad vampire Christian somehow. Together they're after the psychotic vampire who put her on this journey.
The problems I have with the story is that the world is explained deep into the story. Because the vampires aren't called vampires but Aeternus, I wish it was explained why earlier. Who they were exactly and why they dislike being called vampires was never explained to me. Then the psychotic vampires are called dreniac's and that should be explained too. Along with Venators (which is what Antoinette is...a slayer). I find if you use different words for the familiar, you better explain it way early on so I'm not all "What? Huh?"
But this was a sexy, fun ride but I'm not sure if I'll stay on it since the main characters swap out in book two and I wish that hadn't happened since there were some unresolved things in book 1.
I'm not sure if I'd classify this as urban fantasy though. It's more paranormal romance. And when you hit the sex scenes, it's more like an erotic paranormal romance.
Antoinette is tough and hell-bent on avenging her mother's death. Her brother is oh-so-conveniently off to London to work for some big-wig vampire hunting thing because now Antoinette has to hook up with big bad vampire Christian somehow. Together they're after the psychotic vampire who put her on this journey.
The problems I have with the story is that the world is explained deep into the story. Because the vampires aren't called vampires but Aeternus, I wish it was explained why earlier. Who they were exactly and why they dislike being called vampires was never explained to me. Then the psychotic vampires are called dreniac's and that should be explained too. Along with Venators (which is what Antoinette is...a slayer). I find if you use different words for the familiar, you better explain it way early on so I'm not all "What? Huh?"
But this was a sexy, fun ride but I'm not sure if I'll stay on it since the main characters swap out in book two and I wish that hadn't happened since there were some unresolved things in book 1.
January 16, 2010
I really liked this book. It is different from what is out there and on the darker side. I enjoyed all the different species and all the family connects that played out. What I think the author did really great was the world building. This book was pretty extensive in what it laid out for the rules and what was going on in it. So often times with a book like this all you get is info dump, little story, info dump, little story, more info dump, but for the most part the info that was needed to understand what was going on was written in a way to seamlessly mix with the story.
Antoinette was an interesting character, shaped by the events of her past that colored her perception of her now. It took events within her family and meeting some new people to really shake up how she thought and reacted. Within her new reality she realized that what she did and the skills she had were just as useful, only pointed in a new direction, facing and fighting her biggest nightmare. Along the way she has to accept she can't do things by herself and accept the helping hands that reach out to her. In the fight things happen that will affect her for the rest of her life and it is hard for her to accept the consequences. In the end her family and new found friends are there to help her.
I look forward to the next book in this series!!
Antoinette was an interesting character, shaped by the events of her past that colored her perception of her now. It took events within her family and meeting some new people to really shake up how she thought and reacted. Within her new reality she realized that what she did and the skills she had were just as useful, only pointed in a new direction, facing and fighting her biggest nightmare. Along the way she has to accept she can't do things by herself and accept the helping hands that reach out to her. In the fight things happen that will affect her for the rest of her life and it is hard for her to accept the consequences. In the end her family and new found friends are there to help her.
I look forward to the next book in this series!!
August 7, 2010
My rating: 3.5 stars
Night's Cold Kiss was an enjoyable read that held my attention throughout the story with plenty action and passionately love scenes. I found the overall premises surrounding vampires compelling but nothing really original along those lines of supernatural. Thought I found the story captivating there were a couple of spots throughout the story where the story seems to take an abrupt change in emotions/feelings portrayed by the characters that left me feeling a little disoriented, especially between the two love interests Antoinette and Christian. In end though, I was thrilled by these two.
I would like to note that is book is billed as Urban Fantasy but in actuality it's a Paranormal Romance. For me, an Urban Fantasy is a book whose main interests is in the main hero/heroine and romance is not the main focal point of the story. A Paranormal Romance on the other hand is where the story is mainly based on where a pair will ended up as a couple and more times than not ending in a HEA (happily ever after) for them.
All in all, I plan to read the next book in this series, it has a lot promise to be a great series.
Night's Cold Kiss was an enjoyable read that held my attention throughout the story with plenty action and passionately love scenes. I found the overall premises surrounding vampires compelling but nothing really original along those lines of supernatural. Thought I found the story captivating there were a couple of spots throughout the story where the story seems to take an abrupt change in emotions/feelings portrayed by the characters that left me feeling a little disoriented, especially between the two love interests Antoinette and Christian. In end though, I was thrilled by these two.
I would like to note that is book is billed as Urban Fantasy but in actuality it's a Paranormal Romance. For me, an Urban Fantasy is a book whose main interests is in the main hero/heroine and romance is not the main focal point of the story. A Paranormal Romance on the other hand is where the story is mainly based on where a pair will ended up as a couple and more times than not ending in a HEA (happily ever after) for them.
All in all, I plan to read the next book in this series, it has a lot promise to be a great series.
July 22, 2010
I would have had to get a notebook, and take frequent notes to be able to list everything that was wrong with this book. I'm actually mad at myself for buying it. I was going to put it down, but decided it could get better. By the time I decided I was definitely wrong, I figured I had wasted so much time on it that I might as well see what happened. The writing is just really cheesy and predictable. And most of the book is just one long sex scene with a little story mixed in. I didn't get how the heroine made bestest friends with the Aeterus so quickly, and that was just one little thing in a long string of ridiculousness. Since I don't want to waste any more of my life on this book, I'll just stop there.
June 29, 2015
I picked this book up off the supermarket shelf and judging by the cover it didn't really look like the type of book I would normally read but the blurb had me thinking it might be all right.
I'm glad I grabbed it because although it was different to what I usually read I really enjoyed it.
It was fast paced and well written. The characters were also good although the MC sometimes exhibited characteristics or said certain things that I felt didn't quite fit into the image the author was projecting for her but I liked her.
I'm not sure if there is a sequel to this but there definitely could be with the ending and if there is one I will certainly read it.
I'm glad I grabbed it because although it was different to what I usually read I really enjoyed it.
It was fast paced and well written. The characters were also good although the MC sometimes exhibited characteristics or said certain things that I felt didn't quite fit into the image the author was projecting for her but I liked her.
I'm not sure if there is a sequel to this but there definitely could be with the ending and if there is one I will certainly read it.
June 4, 2018
I picked up this book because it looked like a fun, mindless UF read to cleanse my palate between heavy epic fantasy. I wanted a kick butt heroine and lots of high stakes vampire killing. What I received was a heroine who has supposedly killed 140 vampires but always seems to need rescuing. Oh, and it doesn't take long to see that this book is paranormal romance, not urban fantasy. Including acronyms of various government agencies that aren't really explained and barely discussed does not define the UF genre.
I reevaluated my expectations after about 50 pages; even though it wasn't what I wanted, I thought I could still enjoy it. I didn't. I found the plot just booooring.
As for characters: Antoinette is whiny and throws childish tantrums every chapter. Christian comes off as uber creepy and an Alpha Male (TM). The villain is obvious the first or second time you meet them. The only character who shows any personality is Victor.
Every minor male character is sleazy for no reason. Every minor female character is jealous of Antoinette's good looks.
Then there were parts that were just...urgh.
There's a scene that's uncomfortably close to date rape, and we're expected to just say it's fine. Then there's actually a could-have-been rape scene later that neither adds enjoyment nor enhances the story. Not trying to give spoilers, but these were things I would have appreciated knowing before reading.
I wouldn't recommend this one.
I reevaluated my expectations after about 50 pages; even though it wasn't what I wanted, I thought I could still enjoy it. I didn't. I found the plot just booooring.
As for characters: Antoinette is whiny and throws childish tantrums every chapter. Christian comes off as uber creepy and an Alpha Male (TM). The villain is obvious the first or second time you meet them. The only character who shows any personality is Victor.
Every minor male character is sleazy for no reason. Every minor female character is jealous of Antoinette's good looks.
Then there were parts that were just...urgh.
There's a scene that's uncomfortably close to date rape, and we're expected to just say it's fine. Then there's actually a could-have-been rape scene later that neither adds enjoyment nor enhances the story. Not trying to give spoilers, but these were things I would have appreciated knowing before reading.
I wouldn't recommend this one.
May 13, 2023
The idea isn't bad and the writing was easy enough to follow.
I just didn't feel very engaged with what was happening nor with the characters. Obviously it's me, because I kept thinking about changes I'd do for the story to better suit my preferences.
My enjoyment of UF and PNR has clearly dwindled, that is true, but I still read certain series in these genres and love the books, so I suppose I'm just picky in what feels engaging and was doesn't.
I just didn't feel very engaged with what was happening nor with the characters. Obviously it's me, because I kept thinking about changes I'd do for the story to better suit my preferences.
My enjoyment of UF and PNR has clearly dwindled, that is true, but I still read certain series in these genres and love the books, so I suppose I'm just picky in what feels engaging and was doesn't.
did-not-finish
March 27, 2021I’m about half way through and they just killed the most interesting character so I think I’m done here. I was in the mood for vampires, but this wasn’t what I was hoping for. The world building felt derived and the badass heroine frequently gets her ass kicked or is Too Stupid To Live.
Anyway, going to the lifeline book fair today and hoping I find more Lyndsay Sands vampire romcoms.
Anyway, going to the lifeline book fair today and hoping I find more Lyndsay Sands vampire romcoms.
July 12, 2020
This is enjoyable, and I do like a strong heroine. It just didn't wow me like I had hoped.
March 31, 2011
I am always excited to find an Australian author who is published in the PNR/UF genre. Australian publishers tend to be all about the mainstream, so it's a rare thing.
Night's Cool Kiss is the first in the Dark Brethren series, and O'Hara has imagined a world of slayers, blood lusting vampires and shape shifters with her own creative twist.
For Antoinette Petrescu, whose mother was murdered in front of her, becoming a Venator gave her permission to avenge her mother's death at the hands of a Necrodreniac, a killer vampire. Antoinette has a reputation as one of the best vampire hunters in the Guild but her prejudice extends to the Aeternus, vampires who co-operate within society. When the Dreniac, who killed her mother and was believed dead, surfaces Antoinette is the target of his psychopathic killing spree. To stop him, she has to team up with Christian, an Aeternus with a fearsome reputation, as well as untangle the mystery of her father's disappearance and political corruption.
Night's Cold Kiss is described as Dark Urban Fantasy. The sex and violence is too explicit to comfortably fit in the paranormal romance genre but neither do I feel it truly sits well in the Urban Fantasy genre. Though Antoinette is said to have the ability and attitude to look after herself, the plot has her relying heavily on interference from another character (almost always male) to survive or escape almost every confrontation. The story places a lot of emphasis on the partnership of Antoinette and Christian rather than fully realising Antoinette's strengths. Still, I found Antoinette's character interesting and sympathised with her motivations. Christian is the modern model of a vampire hero - a tortured past, outrageously handsome, rich, deadly etc. The development of their romantic relationship is quick but not rushed, the intimate scenes are well written but there is nothing particularly special about their connection.
As with many debut books of planned series, the information given to detail the world can sometimes crowd the plot or characters. O'Hara has developed a world with complex political systems and specific language which requires the reader to carefully consider the details given. The paranormal world co-exists with humanity but there are factions and resources that are specific to the alien culture. There are a lot of imagined terms used in the book but I think that in general the story provides enough context for the reader (and if not a glossary can be found at the end of the book). There are some unique touches, such as the heightened connection with animals that I hope is explored further. Viktor's pet dog, Cerebus is almost a character in his own right.
I found myself drawn into the dark and gritty world the characters inhabit. The plot is interesting and plays out logically. Vital threads are wrapped up but others are left to be, I assume, continued in later books. The pace is good and I found it a quick and well written read.
Night's Cold Kiss is a solid start to a new series that has piqued my interest in it's potential. It's blend of gritty fantasy with strong romantic elements offers something for fans of the PNR and UF genre who appreciate aspects of each. I look forward to the release of
Death's Sweet Embrace this month.
Night's Cool Kiss is the first in the Dark Brethren series, and O'Hara has imagined a world of slayers, blood lusting vampires and shape shifters with her own creative twist.
For Antoinette Petrescu, whose mother was murdered in front of her, becoming a Venator gave her permission to avenge her mother's death at the hands of a Necrodreniac, a killer vampire. Antoinette has a reputation as one of the best vampire hunters in the Guild but her prejudice extends to the Aeternus, vampires who co-operate within society. When the Dreniac, who killed her mother and was believed dead, surfaces Antoinette is the target of his psychopathic killing spree. To stop him, she has to team up with Christian, an Aeternus with a fearsome reputation, as well as untangle the mystery of her father's disappearance and political corruption.
Night's Cold Kiss is described as Dark Urban Fantasy. The sex and violence is too explicit to comfortably fit in the paranormal romance genre but neither do I feel it truly sits well in the Urban Fantasy genre. Though Antoinette is said to have the ability and attitude to look after herself, the plot has her relying heavily on interference from another character (almost always male) to survive or escape almost every confrontation. The story places a lot of emphasis on the partnership of Antoinette and Christian rather than fully realising Antoinette's strengths. Still, I found Antoinette's character interesting and sympathised with her motivations. Christian is the modern model of a vampire hero - a tortured past, outrageously handsome, rich, deadly etc. The development of their romantic relationship is quick but not rushed, the intimate scenes are well written but there is nothing particularly special about their connection.
As with many debut books of planned series, the information given to detail the world can sometimes crowd the plot or characters. O'Hara has developed a world with complex political systems and specific language which requires the reader to carefully consider the details given. The paranormal world co-exists with humanity but there are factions and resources that are specific to the alien culture. There are a lot of imagined terms used in the book but I think that in general the story provides enough context for the reader (and if not a glossary can be found at the end of the book). There are some unique touches, such as the heightened connection with animals that I hope is explored further. Viktor's pet dog, Cerebus is almost a character in his own right.
I found myself drawn into the dark and gritty world the characters inhabit. The plot is interesting and plays out logically. Vital threads are wrapped up but others are left to be, I assume, continued in later books. The pace is good and I found it a quick and well written read.
Night's Cold Kiss is a solid start to a new series that has piqued my interest in it's potential. It's blend of gritty fantasy with strong romantic elements offers something for fans of the PNR and UF genre who appreciate aspects of each. I look forward to the release of
Death's Sweet Embrace this month.
January 7, 2011
When Antoinette was six years old, she watched her mother die a very violent death at the hands of a rogue vampire. That incident shaped Antoinette into the woman she became. She was a determined, intelligent, and a skilled warrior, who made it her mission to kill as many of the Necrodreniac (rogue vampires) as she could. She would have liked nothing better than to get rid the planet of all vampires. It didn't matter that there were good vampires who were an intricate part of modern society...No, as far as she was concerned, they were all monsters. It was her hatred that motivated her into becoming the best Venators (rogue vampire/Necrodreniac hunters) of the best. While she had many good qualities, I couldn't help but feel her character was inconsistant. I was under the impression, she was suppose to be the elite of the Venators. She was suppose to be highly skilled, yet she often found her self bested or out-manuvered by less than skilled villians. Also, I felt her stubborn streak bordered on immaturity, and her feelings in regards to vampires was fickled at best.
I felt Christian's character lacked that something "special" most sexy and brooding vampires have...personality. It felt like everytime there was trouble, he was just standing around watching or was never around to begin with. This gave the impression of a card board character, like the author wasn't sure what to do with him. The only time he was noticably present was when a sex scene or something relevant to it came up.Now, that I am thinking about it...for a supposed nice guy, his sexual taste were a bit on the violent side. It seemed so out of character. I had expected romance and wisdom from him...nope didn't get it.
Now Victor on the other hand was a very engaging character. He was the light within the dark in this book. He was not only interesting, but he brought out the best in Antoinette and Christin's characters. His ability to use witty bantor and his engaging personality into the dialogue was sadly missed when the author decided to snub his character...thus taking away any engaging qualities the protagonsits might have had.
I thought the author did a good job on the world building, but the plot was lacking in both originality and substance. In fact, there were moments, when I felt the chapters were jerky and incomplete. I also felt, there were too many short cuts and easy outs. That being said, I saw alot of potential to be had in this book. The action sequences were amazing. I would have liked it , if the author delved more into the vampire politics. I think the political intrigue would have been a very prudent element. I would have also liked a bit more depth and romance in the relationship of Antoinette and Christian.
Overall, I think that the book was a good read, with the potential to have been a great one. I would have found it more appealing had the book had some unpredictablity, focus more on character depth, explored the vampire politics, and had some originality. I wish the book had more fluidity. Instead it felt jerky and incomplete. I also felt, the characters could have been more engaging and more consistant to who thier characters were suppose to be. I did like Victor, the conflict with Dante, the concept of the Troubles, and the small amount of political intrigue I was given. If you are looking for enjoyment in the urban fantasy world that is a quick and enjoyable read, then you might like Night's Cold Kiss.
I felt Christian's character lacked that something "special" most sexy and brooding vampires have...personality. It felt like everytime there was trouble, he was just standing around watching or was never around to begin with. This gave the impression of a card board character, like the author wasn't sure what to do with him. The only time he was noticably present was when a sex scene or something relevant to it came up.Now, that I am thinking about it...for a supposed nice guy, his sexual taste were a bit on the violent side. It seemed so out of character. I had expected romance and wisdom from him...nope didn't get it.
Now Victor on the other hand was a very engaging character. He was the light within the dark in this book. He was not only interesting, but he brought out the best in Antoinette and Christin's characters. His ability to use witty bantor and his engaging personality into the dialogue was sadly missed when the author decided to snub his character...thus taking away any engaging qualities the protagonsits might have had.
I thought the author did a good job on the world building, but the plot was lacking in both originality and substance. In fact, there were moments, when I felt the chapters were jerky and incomplete. I also felt, there were too many short cuts and easy outs. That being said, I saw alot of potential to be had in this book. The action sequences were amazing. I would have liked it , if the author delved more into the vampire politics. I think the political intrigue would have been a very prudent element. I would have also liked a bit more depth and romance in the relationship of Antoinette and Christian.
Overall, I think that the book was a good read, with the potential to have been a great one. I would have found it more appealing had the book had some unpredictablity, focus more on character depth, explored the vampire politics, and had some originality. I wish the book had more fluidity. Instead it felt jerky and incomplete. I also felt, the characters could have been more engaging and more consistant to who thier characters were suppose to be. I did like Victor, the conflict with Dante, the concept of the Troubles, and the small amount of political intrigue I was given. If you are looking for enjoyment in the urban fantasy world that is a quick and enjoyable read, then you might like Night's Cold Kiss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2011
if ever there was an explosion that started the universe I think it would look something like the start of this debut story from Tracey O’Hara.
HUGE start, that just doesn’t stop. Night’s Cold Kiss is an adrenaline filled rollercoaster that had me in tears by page 50, hot under the collar by page 30 and my heart racing by page 10.
My only problem was the new terms for vampires. Particularly as these were introduced in the first few pages without any real explanation as to what they were. So the new terms “Aeternus”, “Necrodremiancs” etc, were just very distracting, standing out and jarring what is otherwise an incredibly smooth flowing story. Read the glossary at the back of the book before starting the first page and I think you’ll be in readers heaven.
Our heroine Antoinette is the strong, sexy, not-so-silent type. Oh, and there’s a malamute (so cute). The heroes are all pretty strong and sexy themselves.
Some serious “hmm, didn’t see THAT coming” moments, a few “oh, I bet he did it” moments (some I was right, some I was wrong), what a story!
If you like Keri Arthur or Laurel K Hamilton’s Anita Blake you will love this. Gosh, and this is her first! That’s a lot to live up to for book two in what has the potential tol become a major series in the world of paranormal romance/urban fantasy. But no pressure Tracey! I am looking forward to reading more!
http://www.fangtastic.com.au/books/sh...
HUGE start, that just doesn’t stop. Night’s Cold Kiss is an adrenaline filled rollercoaster that had me in tears by page 50, hot under the collar by page 30 and my heart racing by page 10.
My only problem was the new terms for vampires. Particularly as these were introduced in the first few pages without any real explanation as to what they were. So the new terms “Aeternus”, “Necrodremiancs” etc, were just very distracting, standing out and jarring what is otherwise an incredibly smooth flowing story. Read the glossary at the back of the book before starting the first page and I think you’ll be in readers heaven.
Our heroine Antoinette is the strong, sexy, not-so-silent type. Oh, and there’s a malamute (so cute). The heroes are all pretty strong and sexy themselves.
Some serious “hmm, didn’t see THAT coming” moments, a few “oh, I bet he did it” moments (some I was right, some I was wrong), what a story!
If you like Keri Arthur or Laurel K Hamilton’s Anita Blake you will love this. Gosh, and this is her first! That’s a lot to live up to for book two in what has the potential tol become a major series in the world of paranormal romance/urban fantasy. But no pressure Tracey! I am looking forward to reading more!
http://www.fangtastic.com.au/books/sh...
June 22, 2012
Starts with violent action. Slowed by made-up words and acronyms for para(normal) human organizations requiring glossary, dreams, and supererogatory back story details. Official agency "donator" is really hot-blooded double-service prostitute, though she thinks rejecting extra tip denies definition. More violence segues into x-rated coupling. Here lies satisfaction if you're in the mood for invigorating stimulation, in-knowledge of acronym-ious vocabulary. More emotion is invested in Viktor's dog, than the only close family left brother who drops out of the story forgotten, or the long-dead father suddenly returns. Not my current interests.
Guild bounty hunter "Venator" Antoinette confronts again both savior and enemy from sixteen years ago. Vampire "Aeternus" Christian "Crimson Executioner" rescued her and brother Nic. Her first response as an adult is always to lash out, not my idea of hero. Killer vampire "Necrodreniac" Dane murderered their mother Marianna. He proves he is more powerful, why does Antoinette go after him alone? Again, foolish, not heroic.
Quibble: The mastermind is not "human". An "Old One" is usually not. Added "Abomination" blood makes him not human anymore, despite birth.
(Spoiler:
I guessed Lucian was a traitor. I think the only clue was the logic of plot development. I won't re-read to find out.)
Typos:
p48 dog "tale" is "tail"
p68 in tight jeans "she" was able to hold back is "he"
"Excerpt" on website is just the first page blub, one of Antoinette's nightmares.
Guild bounty hunter "Venator" Antoinette confronts again both savior and enemy from sixteen years ago. Vampire "Aeternus" Christian "Crimson Executioner" rescued her and brother Nic. Her first response as an adult is always to lash out, not my idea of hero. Killer vampire "Necrodreniac" Dane murderered their mother Marianna. He proves he is more powerful, why does Antoinette go after him alone? Again, foolish, not heroic.
Quibble: The mastermind is not "human". An "Old One" is usually not. Added "Abomination" blood makes him not human anymore, despite birth.
(Spoiler:
I guessed Lucian was a traitor. I think the only clue was the logic of plot development. I won't re-read to find out.)
Typos:
p48 dog "tale" is "tail"
p68 in tight jeans "she" was able to hold back is "he"
"Excerpt" on website is just the first page blub, one of Antoinette's nightmares.
January 15, 2012
This was a really great book and an excellent first in a series.
The author has written a tight book, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you enthralled.
I really liked the two main characters, both who have alot of emotional baggage. The fact that these two are thrown together is intresting as both acknowledge the fact that they are no good for eaxh other. The relationahip starts as purely sexual and progresses into something more. both parties tey to deny this connection at first, each for their own reasons.
The negative part of this? The old.cliches of the pnr genre mean they do come together. However it isn't in a cheesey way.
This isn't the only reason why i gave it 4 stars. I felt that the main plot was very quickly wrapped up, when it would have benifitted playing over three books. I have since found that the next.book in the series is about different characters. I'm not sure why as I thought there was.much more to tell with these.
The author also knows how to build thr sexual tension in a scene very well. An excellent example is when thr two mains are dancing the tango at some fancy do. Images of Mr and Mrs Smith came to mind and it was.written really well!
One last thing, the author is cruel! She is not above making you love a character only to steal.them away. I literally fought back the tears.
So I really would recommend this book!
The author has written a tight book, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you enthralled.
I really liked the two main characters, both who have alot of emotional baggage. The fact that these two are thrown together is intresting as both acknowledge the fact that they are no good for eaxh other. The relationahip starts as purely sexual and progresses into something more. both parties tey to deny this connection at first, each for their own reasons.
The negative part of this? The old.cliches of the pnr genre mean they do come together. However it isn't in a cheesey way.
This isn't the only reason why i gave it 4 stars. I felt that the main plot was very quickly wrapped up, when it would have benifitted playing over three books. I have since found that the next.book in the series is about different characters. I'm not sure why as I thought there was.much more to tell with these.
The author also knows how to build thr sexual tension in a scene very well. An excellent example is when thr two mains are dancing the tango at some fancy do. Images of Mr and Mrs Smith came to mind and it was.written really well!
One last thing, the author is cruel! She is not above making you love a character only to steal.them away. I literally fought back the tears.
So I really would recommend this book!
July 1, 2012
I was thinking of giving it a 2 but I just could not cos I was sooooo bored. At one time I almost fell asleep and at another time I had no idea who this one guy was. I could not focus, I did not care.
What went wrong? I do not know. The world building seemed ok, the writing was good. But I never grew to like the heroine, I never liked the hero. I never felt the attraction between them and never understood her.
Also was this supposed to be UF? No, it was not. There was a plot, which I have forgotten seems it all seemed to be the dance between these two. The sex, the yawn. When I want UF I want UF, so for you PNR fans this might interested you more. I do like PNR but then it should be pnr and this mix did not work for me at this time.
I wish I had quit it and DNF it, but I was stuck in a car and nothing else to read.
Still it was not bad, it was just not for me.
What went wrong? I do not know. The world building seemed ok, the writing was good. But I never grew to like the heroine, I never liked the hero. I never felt the attraction between them and never understood her.
Also was this supposed to be UF? No, it was not. There was a plot, which I have forgotten seems it all seemed to be the dance between these two. The sex, the yawn. When I want UF I want UF, so for you PNR fans this might interested you more. I do like PNR but then it should be pnr and this mix did not work for me at this time.
I wish I had quit it and DNF it, but I was stuck in a car and nothing else to read.
Still it was not bad, it was just not for me.
February 26, 2011
I wish Ms O'Hara had given us a teaser on what the next book in this series, if it is even going to be a series. So many of the characters were killed off I don't know who the next group of characters will be about. About the only one that I would love to hear from is Oberion (*sp). All in all this was a very good book kept me interested, even though I knew who the bad guy was I still had to and wanted to finish the story. Heart it, bring the next one on.......
2/24/2011
Something I never do read a book twice but I was a little lost starting the 2nd book thought I could read portions and before I knew I was sucked in and read the entire book and I don't change my rating nothing but 5 stars.
2/24/2011
Something I never do read a book twice but I was a little lost starting the 2nd book thought I could read portions and before I knew I was sucked in and read the entire book and I don't change my rating nothing but 5 stars.
November 22, 2009
Night's Cold Kiss is a fast-paced debut novel. A mixture of urban fantasy and paranormal romance, the book hooks you from the start and does not let go even as it roars to the finish.
The main villain (or the one you THINK is the main villain)is very creepily evil. The main heroine, Antoinette, is strong but still has her human weaknesses that give her a depth that sometimes is lacking in some urban fantasy series. The main hero, Christian, is a tad overly protective of those he loves and he has fallen hard for Antoinette. Overall, the book is full of interesting characters and the world they live in has a history and a story all its own.
Hopefully, there will be more books set in the complex world Ms. O'Hara has created.
Recommended.
The main villain (or the one you THINK is the main villain)is very creepily evil. The main heroine, Antoinette, is strong but still has her human weaknesses that give her a depth that sometimes is lacking in some urban fantasy series. The main hero, Christian, is a tad overly protective of those he loves and he has fallen hard for Antoinette. Overall, the book is full of interesting characters and the world they live in has a history and a story all its own.
Hopefully, there will be more books set in the complex world Ms. O'Hara has created.
Recommended.
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