What do you think?
Rate this book
Night Huntress World #1
First Drop of Crimson
The night is not safe for mortals.
Denise MacGregor knows all too well what lurks in the shadows – her best friend is half-vampire Cat Crawfield – and she has already lost more than the average human could bear. But her family’s dark past is wrapped in secrets and shrouded in darkness – and a demon shapeshifter has marked Denise as prey. Now her survival depends on an immortal who craves a taste of her.
He is Spade, a powerful, mysterious vampire who has walked the earth for centuries and is now duty-bound to protect this endangered, alluring human – even if it means destroying his own kind. Denise may arouse his deepest hungers, but Spade knows he must fight his urge to have her as they face the demon nightmare together…
Because once the first drop of crimson falls, they will both be lost.
Denise MacGregor knows all too well what lurks in the shadows – her best friend is half-vampire Cat Crawfield – and she has already lost more than the average human could bear. But her family’s dark past is wrapped in secrets and shrouded in darkness – and a demon shapeshifter has marked Denise as prey. Now her survival depends on an immortal who craves a taste of her.
He is Spade, a powerful, mysterious vampire who has walked the earth for centuries and is now duty-bound to protect this endangered, alluring human – even if it means destroying his own kind. Denise may arouse his deepest hungers, but Spade knows he must fight his urge to have her as they face the demon nightmare together…
Because once the first drop of crimson falls, they will both be lost.
371 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 27, 2010
About the author
Jeaniene Frost
50 books26.1k followersJeaniene Frost is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of the Night Huntress series, the Night Prince series, the Broken Destiny series, and the Night Rebel series. To date, foreign rights for her novels have sold to twenty different countries. Jeaniene lives in Maryland with her husband Matthew, who long ago accepted that she rarely cooks and always sleeps in on the weekends. Aside from writing, Jeaniene enjoys reading, poetry, watching movies with her husband, exploring old cemeteries, spelunking and traveling – by car. Airplanes, children, and cook books frighten her.
For information on Jeaniene's books, book trailers, free reading, contests, creature mythology, and more, please visit: www.jeanienefrost.com
For information on Jeaniene's books, book trailers, free reading, contests, creature mythology, and more, please visit: www.jeanienefrost.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,519 reviews
April 26, 2022
5 Demon Dodging Stars
*Spoilers*
First read 2/24/2014
Reread 11/24/2015
Re reread 11/20/2019
Reread 4/19/21
Reread 4/26/22
"I know you have vampire hit men, so why wouldn't you have vampire private investigators, too?" she flared back. "I can't just run an ad with Nathanial's description on it titled 'Have you seen this soul welsher?'"-Denise
"No." She blinked. "No?" "I understand your confusion," Spade said smoothly, "since it seems you don't hear that word often, but allow me to explain. It means I'm not your employee. It means you'll need to do what I say in order for me to find your greedy relative, and it means your personal preferences in the matter aren't my concern. Quite clear now as to its definition?"-Spade and Denise
First Drop of Crimson is the first book in the Night Huntress World series, which is a spin off that ties to the Night huntress series. This book's plot happens between Destined for an Early Grave and This Side of the Grave. Although it can be read as a stand alone novel.
Villains of the world, beware! I can eat you under the table AND gross you out with my monster paws!-Denise
Here is the list of the reading order from the author's page:
HALFWAY TO THE GRAVE
ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE
AT GRAVE’S END
DESTINED FOR AN EARLY GRAVE
FIRST DROP OF CRIMSON
ETERNAL KISS OF DARKNESS
THIS SIDE OF THE GRAVE
ONE GRAVE AT A TIME
ONCE BURNED
TWICE TEMPTED
UP FROM THE GRAVE
BOUND BY FLAMES
OUTTAKES FROM THE GRAVE (releasing December 2015)
INTO THE FIRE (releasing summer 2016)
Ian grinned at her, trailing a pale hand down his chest. "Luscious, aren't I, poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind." Denise tore her gaze away, but not because she'd been transfixed in admiration. Sure, Ian had an abdomen that could double as a washboard and his face was eerily handsome, but he also had monster written all over him. Couldn't those women sense the menace oozing off him? If she'd met Ian in an alley, she'd run like hell, no matter how much beautiful skin he showed. "You look like a Dracula porn movie reject," she managed.-Ian and Denise
"Fuck you," she spat. "I'm not asking you, I'm telling you I'm leaving, and you're not following me. Period." Spade's eyes glinted dangerously. "Try it. See how far you get."-Denise and Spade
If you have read any of the first four books of the Night Huntress series then you have met the H&H of this book. Spade is Bones's best friend and Denise is Cat's best friend. In this book Denise is in trouble. A demon has killed her aunt and two of her cousins, he was going to kill her but he found out she knows vampires making her useful to him. The demon tells Denise that a relative of hers named Nathanial that sold his soul to him and for power then ran. So now the demon is killing every member of his family until he gets him back. The demon believes that Nathanial is hiding with vampires and he tells Denise that if she brings Nathanial to him he will let her and her mom and dad live. Then he brands her with his demon brands which lets him track her and gives her his powers. Denise tries to get a hold of Bones and Cat but can't reach them so she calls Bones's best mate Spade. Spade knows Bones and Cat have a lot on their plate right now so he is going to do what he can to help Denise. Can Spade and Denise find Nathanial in time to save her family and keep her from becoming a demon?
As soon as she did, she shoved him away hard enough to make him take a step backward. "How dare you laugh at me on the way down!" Spade held out a conciliatory hand, but that amused expression didn't quite leave his face. "Now, Denise - " "Don't you 'Denise' me," she snapped. "I don't care how old, powerful, or strong you are. If you ever do something like that again, I'll stab you in the heart. Son of a bitch, I can't believe you threw me out of a plane!" Spade still looked like he was fighting back his laughter. "I didn't throw you out. I jumped with you. Very different."-Denise and Spade
"There's nothing casual about my feelings for you, Denise," he whispered. His voice deepened. "And I have no intention of letting you go anywhere tomorrow, or the next day, or the next."-Spade
The thing I really love about Jeaniene Frost, is that she writes these amazing, realistic, in-depth, and very likable characters that just draw you in. Both Denise and Spade are fun, brave, loyal characters. I love that Denise fights even though she has been through hell. Spade is patient, and caring. He helps Denise heal from the murder of her first husband and she brings him back to life. Neither is perfect, but the whole time I was reading I just kept thinking, If that was me I would do the same thing they did. When you can relate to a character like that, if makes you connect. Denise and Spade when they got together were so hot. Man can Jeaniene Frost write some killer sex scenes!! And OMG there is this one scene where Spade is seducing Denise secretly by making enough noise when he gets into the shower to wake her up. The bathroom in right by her bed in the hotel so he leaves the door open and gives her a peep show. He even makes sure to use cold water so there is no steam to block her view. Sneaky vampire!
"You might want to shower first," Denise said, shivering at the flick of his tongue under her ear. "I'd offer to join you, but it's so small, you might not even fit." A low laugh ticked her. "You can always watch...again." She was confused, then understanding bloomed about that night in Vegas. "You knew?" Another laugh, infinitely more wicked. "I wanted you to watch, so I stomped around the room to wake you before I got into the shower. Didn't you wonder why the light was on? It wasn't for me, I can see in the dark. And then I kept the water cold so the glass wouldn't fog." "With your body, that should count as entrapment," -Denise and Spade
"Lucifer's bouncing balls, that's why you're acting like a nutter! You've gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn't see it on your face myself, I wouldn't believe it."-Bones
We get to see Bones and Cat in this book, and a lot of Ian. I have to say I really like Ian. He is suppose to get his own novel or novels coming sometime in the next year and I can't wait. It was nice seeing Denise get a new HEA after reading her husband's death in a previous Bones and Cat novel, and Spade was perfect for her! A great read and a kick ass start to the spin off series!
"You'll always love him," he said, as if he'd read her mind. "That doesn't die just because he did, or because you now love me. Your love for him is part of who you are. It's a beautiful part, Denise. Don't be sad of it, and I will never be jealous of it."-Spade
*Spoilers*
First read 2/24/2014
Reread 11/24/2015
Re reread 11/20/2019
Reread 4/19/21
Reread 4/26/22
"I know you have vampire hit men, so why wouldn't you have vampire private investigators, too?" she flared back. "I can't just run an ad with Nathanial's description on it titled 'Have you seen this soul welsher?'"-Denise
"No." She blinked. "No?" "I understand your confusion," Spade said smoothly, "since it seems you don't hear that word often, but allow me to explain. It means I'm not your employee. It means you'll need to do what I say in order for me to find your greedy relative, and it means your personal preferences in the matter aren't my concern. Quite clear now as to its definition?"-Spade and Denise
First Drop of Crimson is the first book in the Night Huntress World series, which is a spin off that ties to the Night huntress series. This book's plot happens between Destined for an Early Grave and This Side of the Grave. Although it can be read as a stand alone novel.
Villains of the world, beware! I can eat you under the table AND gross you out with my monster paws!-Denise
Here is the list of the reading order from the author's page:
HALFWAY TO THE GRAVE
ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE
AT GRAVE’S END
DESTINED FOR AN EARLY GRAVE
FIRST DROP OF CRIMSON
ETERNAL KISS OF DARKNESS
THIS SIDE OF THE GRAVE
ONE GRAVE AT A TIME
ONCE BURNED
TWICE TEMPTED
UP FROM THE GRAVE
BOUND BY FLAMES
OUTTAKES FROM THE GRAVE (releasing December 2015)
INTO THE FIRE (releasing summer 2016)
Ian grinned at her, trailing a pale hand down his chest. "Luscious, aren't I, poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind." Denise tore her gaze away, but not because she'd been transfixed in admiration. Sure, Ian had an abdomen that could double as a washboard and his face was eerily handsome, but he also had monster written all over him. Couldn't those women sense the menace oozing off him? If she'd met Ian in an alley, she'd run like hell, no matter how much beautiful skin he showed. "You look like a Dracula porn movie reject," she managed.-Ian and Denise
"Fuck you," she spat. "I'm not asking you, I'm telling you I'm leaving, and you're not following me. Period." Spade's eyes glinted dangerously. "Try it. See how far you get."-Denise and Spade
If you have read any of the first four books of the Night Huntress series then you have met the H&H of this book. Spade is Bones's best friend and Denise is Cat's best friend. In this book Denise is in trouble. A demon has killed her aunt and two of her cousins, he was going to kill her but he found out she knows vampires making her useful to him. The demon tells Denise that a relative of hers named Nathanial that sold his soul to him and for power then ran. So now the demon is killing every member of his family until he gets him back. The demon believes that Nathanial is hiding with vampires and he tells Denise that if she brings Nathanial to him he will let her and her mom and dad live. Then he brands her with his demon brands which lets him track her and gives her his powers. Denise tries to get a hold of Bones and Cat but can't reach them so she calls Bones's best mate Spade. Spade knows Bones and Cat have a lot on their plate right now so he is going to do what he can to help Denise. Can Spade and Denise find Nathanial in time to save her family and keep her from becoming a demon?
As soon as she did, she shoved him away hard enough to make him take a step backward. "How dare you laugh at me on the way down!" Spade held out a conciliatory hand, but that amused expression didn't quite leave his face. "Now, Denise - " "Don't you 'Denise' me," she snapped. "I don't care how old, powerful, or strong you are. If you ever do something like that again, I'll stab you in the heart. Son of a bitch, I can't believe you threw me out of a plane!" Spade still looked like he was fighting back his laughter. "I didn't throw you out. I jumped with you. Very different."-Denise and Spade
"There's nothing casual about my feelings for you, Denise," he whispered. His voice deepened. "And I have no intention of letting you go anywhere tomorrow, or the next day, or the next."-Spade
The thing I really love about Jeaniene Frost, is that she writes these amazing, realistic, in-depth, and very likable characters that just draw you in. Both Denise and Spade are fun, brave, loyal characters. I love that Denise fights even though she has been through hell. Spade is patient, and caring. He helps Denise heal from the murder of her first husband and she brings him back to life. Neither is perfect, but the whole time I was reading I just kept thinking, If that was me I would do the same thing they did. When you can relate to a character like that, if makes you connect. Denise and Spade when they got together were so hot. Man can Jeaniene Frost write some killer sex scenes!! And OMG there is this one scene where Spade is seducing Denise secretly by making enough noise when he gets into the shower to wake her up. The bathroom in right by her bed in the hotel so he leaves the door open and gives her a peep show. He even makes sure to use cold water so there is no steam to block her view. Sneaky vampire!
"You might want to shower first," Denise said, shivering at the flick of his tongue under her ear. "I'd offer to join you, but it's so small, you might not even fit." A low laugh ticked her. "You can always watch...again." She was confused, then understanding bloomed about that night in Vegas. "You knew?" Another laugh, infinitely more wicked. "I wanted you to watch, so I stomped around the room to wake you before I got into the shower. Didn't you wonder why the light was on? It wasn't for me, I can see in the dark. And then I kept the water cold so the glass wouldn't fog." "With your body, that should count as entrapment," -Denise and Spade
"Lucifer's bouncing balls, that's why you're acting like a nutter! You've gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn't see it on your face myself, I wouldn't believe it."-Bones
We get to see Bones and Cat in this book, and a lot of Ian. I have to say I really like Ian. He is suppose to get his own novel or novels coming sometime in the next year and I can't wait. It was nice seeing Denise get a new HEA after reading her husband's death in a previous Bones and Cat novel, and Spade was perfect for her! A great read and a kick ass start to the spin off series!
"You'll always love him," he said, as if he'd read her mind. "That doesn't die just because he did, or because you now love me. Your love for him is part of who you are. It's a beautiful part, Denise. Don't be sad of it, and I will never be jealous of it."-Spade
Read
February 3, 2019I'm really starting to enjoy finding books which were destroyed by bad translation. So, let me tell you about this one.
First of all, this was published before the original series about Cat and Bones, so, you can imagine that it really did not make any sense at all.
Second of all, it said that Cat had something with Mancheres, it said "a romance". And when I read the original series, I kept waiting for Cat to sleep with Mancheres. Well, and it was definitely surprising to find out that it did not happen at all.
#BlameTheTranslation I think I should make series out of this! 😂
First of all, this was published before the original series about Cat and Bones, so, you can imagine that it really did not make any sense at all.
Second of all, it said that Cat had something with Mancheres, it said "a romance". And when I read the original series, I kept waiting for Cat to sleep with Mancheres. Well, and it was definitely surprising to find out that it did not happen at all.
#BlameTheTranslation I think I should make series out of this! 😂
March 20, 2016
5+ stars – Vampire/Paranormal Romance
If I’m ever stuck on a deserted island or in a remote, isolated castle somewhere, my three survival fantasy essentials would be Bones, Spade, and a Twister Board Game ‘cause I think the possibilities would be endless...certainly enough to last for a wicked eternity. *Bones and Spade high-pitched fan girl squeal and naughty grin!*
This is a devilishly sexy, witty, fun, and smokin’ hot addition to the awesome Night Huntress series, and I loved it, loved it, loved it!! Bones is still my top #1 darling bad boy vamp, but Spade is a verrry close second place!
Here are some of my favorite funny lines/scenes (beware possible spoilers ahead).
************************************************************************
Denise on Spade’s appeal:
“Put Spade in a Calvin Klein ad and women would be tempted to lick the page.”
Spade teasing Denise about her aversion to his eating habits:
“You’ll be pleased to know you slept through my breakfast.”
“You eat the room service employees every time?” Denise asked shocked.
“Of course. But don’t fret on their behalf. I always tip well.”
Spade jesting about Denise’s silly attempt to keep him at bay using garlic:
“And while I’ll confess it was fun watching you choke yourself on garlic the past few days, you need have no fear of me biting you. As for things going further than kissing, you need not fret about that, either,” he went on, raking her with a gaze. “I don’t lack for bed partners, so I don’t need to scrounge for unwilling scraps.”
Denise’s response to Spade on whether she’s okay after freaking out in the middle of a vampire party:
“About three miles from Crazytown with my foot on the pedal, I’d say.”
Spade internally berating himself on his attraction to Denise:
“Fool, he lashed himself. He wasn’t doing this out of pity, obligation, or honor, as Denise might believe. No, he’d just recommitted to helping her for the staggeringly witless reason of not wanting to let her go yet. Even now, her scent and nearness tantalized his senses. It was the height of stupidity to be tempted by a woman he could neither bite nor shag. Perhaps for his next brilliant notion, he’d take up shaving with a chain saw.”
Denise commenting on Ian’s attire at a goth club:
“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject,” she managed.
Spade laughed, but Ian winced. “Let’s not speak of him. Like the devil, Vlad might appear if we do.”
Bones reacting to his best mate Spade’s feelings about Denise:
“Lucifer’s bouncing balls, that’s why you’re acting like a nutter! You’ve gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn’t see it on your face for myself, I wouldn’t believe it.”
Denise and Spade having a little lover’s quarrel:
“What the devil? Oh, good one, Spade. Har har! Well, it’s nothing you need to worry about anymore, is it? Thanks for your time. All your time, but really, the farewell fuck was unnecessary. A vibrator can last all night, too, vampire.”
Spade cooing to Denise (in cat form) to try and have her shift back:
“Denise,” he said low. “If you can hear me, I very much need you to come back. Don’t resign me to the fate of being one of those crusty old vampires who only live with their pets.”
I’m talking to a bloomin’ kitty, it occurred to him. He might as well dig a hole and cover himself up with his grave dirt now.
“Come now, darling, I can think of far better ways to spend time in bed with you than this,” he continued in a low voice. “You make a right fetching feline, but really, there are limits to the things I’m willing to try.”
If I’m ever stuck on a deserted island or in a remote, isolated castle somewhere, my three survival fantasy essentials would be Bones, Spade, and a Twister Board Game ‘cause I think the possibilities would be endless...certainly enough to last for a wicked eternity. *Bones and Spade high-pitched fan girl squeal and naughty grin!*
This is a devilishly sexy, witty, fun, and smokin’ hot addition to the awesome Night Huntress series, and I loved it, loved it, loved it!! Bones is still my top #1 darling bad boy vamp, but Spade is a verrry close second place!
Here are some of my favorite funny lines/scenes (beware possible spoilers ahead).
************************************************************************
Denise on Spade’s appeal:
“Put Spade in a Calvin Klein ad and women would be tempted to lick the page.”
Spade teasing Denise about her aversion to his eating habits:
“You’ll be pleased to know you slept through my breakfast.”
“You eat the room service employees every time?” Denise asked shocked.
“Of course. But don’t fret on their behalf. I always tip well.”
Spade jesting about Denise’s silly attempt to keep him at bay using garlic:
“And while I’ll confess it was fun watching you choke yourself on garlic the past few days, you need have no fear of me biting you. As for things going further than kissing, you need not fret about that, either,” he went on, raking her with a gaze. “I don’t lack for bed partners, so I don’t need to scrounge for unwilling scraps.”
Denise’s response to Spade on whether she’s okay after freaking out in the middle of a vampire party:
“About three miles from Crazytown with my foot on the pedal, I’d say.”
Spade internally berating himself on his attraction to Denise:
“Fool, he lashed himself. He wasn’t doing this out of pity, obligation, or honor, as Denise might believe. No, he’d just recommitted to helping her for the staggeringly witless reason of not wanting to let her go yet. Even now, her scent and nearness tantalized his senses. It was the height of stupidity to be tempted by a woman he could neither bite nor shag. Perhaps for his next brilliant notion, he’d take up shaving with a chain saw.”
Denise commenting on Ian’s attire at a goth club:
“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject,” she managed.
Spade laughed, but Ian winced. “Let’s not speak of him. Like the devil, Vlad might appear if we do.”
Bones reacting to his best mate Spade’s feelings about Denise:
“Lucifer’s bouncing balls, that’s why you’re acting like a nutter! You’ve gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn’t see it on your face for myself, I wouldn’t believe it.”
Denise and Spade having a little lover’s quarrel:
“What the devil? Oh, good one, Spade. Har har! Well, it’s nothing you need to worry about anymore, is it? Thanks for your time. All your time, but really, the farewell fuck was unnecessary. A vibrator can last all night, too, vampire.”
Spade cooing to Denise (in cat form) to try and have her shift back:
“Denise,” he said low. “If you can hear me, I very much need you to come back. Don’t resign me to the fate of being one of those crusty old vampires who only live with their pets.”
I’m talking to a bloomin’ kitty, it occurred to him. He might as well dig a hole and cover himself up with his grave dirt now.
“Come now, darling, I can think of far better ways to spend time in bed with you than this,” he continued in a low voice. “You make a right fetching feline, but really, there are limits to the things I’m willing to try.”
June 24, 2010
I’m sorry to say but: this was NOT good. I gave this 2,5 stars and I'm still wondering whether it isn’t too generous.
Was this really Jeaniene Frost? What happened to the woman who wrote such a fresh and exciting book with Halfway to the Grave?
Granted: I wasn’t the biggest Night Huntress series fan. So many nice ideas but nothing really fleshed out (minimal world building, thin plot, flat secondaries, etc.) But I came into these spin off series expecting a PNR novel. The only thing important to me was a remotely believable plot and a likable h/h couple.
I got none of that.
The whole story was one huge plot hole. Out of left field, unbelievable and convenient are words that come to mind.
And Denise deserves a new acronym: TFATL (Too F*cking Annoying To Live). Pardon my French but you’ll excuse me for it after you’ve read the book. Could she be any more stupid?
I really don’t get how Spike #2 ... I mean... Spade could have fallen for her. And not because I hated her guts, but really: it isn’t explained! At all. Why did they have such a connection? What was the attraction based on? What do they like about each other?
I have already accepted that creating an engaging and unpredictable multilayered plot isn’t one of Frost’s strong points. But until now she did manage to aptly describe the attraction between her h/h couple. This time however, the attraction was unfounded and the angst was forged to make the love story ‘more exciting’.
First Drop of Crimson was a bunch of PNR clichés and a stupid heroine put together.
Was this really Jeaniene Frost? What happened to the woman who wrote such a fresh and exciting book with Halfway to the Grave?
Granted: I wasn’t the biggest Night Huntress series fan. So many nice ideas but nothing really fleshed out (minimal world building, thin plot, flat secondaries, etc.) But I came into these spin off series expecting a PNR novel. The only thing important to me was a remotely believable plot and a likable h/h couple.
I got none of that.
The whole story was one huge plot hole. Out of left field, unbelievable and convenient are words that come to mind.
And Denise deserves a new acronym: TFATL (Too F*cking Annoying To Live). Pardon my French but you’ll excuse me for it after you’ve read the book. Could she be any more stupid?
I really don’t get how Spike #2 ... I mean... Spade could have fallen for her. And not because I hated her guts, but really: it isn’t explained! At all. Why did they have such a connection? What was the attraction based on? What do they like about each other?
I have already accepted that creating an engaging and unpredictable multilayered plot isn’t one of Frost’s strong points. But until now she did manage to aptly describe the attraction between her h/h couple. This time however, the attraction was unfounded and the angst was forged to make the love story ‘more exciting’.
First Drop of Crimson was a bunch of PNR clichés and a stupid heroine put together.
February 4, 2018
Denise sighed. “I’ll be twenty-eight on my next birthday.”
“I’ll be two hundred and fifty-seven on my next birthday,” Spade replied.
Spade aka Charles aka Baron Charles DeMortimer is Bones best friend. And has been a widower for a few hundred years. He did not love his wife.
Denise is Cat’s best friend. And has been a widow recently. She loved her husband.
Spade wants Denise and Denise wants Spade
Spade brushed her hair back with a light, caressing stroke. She wished his fingers felt lifeless and cold, but they didn’t. They felt strong, supple, and knowing. Like he realized exactly how she was reacting to his touch.
“Denise…”
His voice was so deep, and the breath he’d used saying her name touched her cheek in its own caress.
Denise closed her eyes. Everything in her wanted to turn toward Spade and abandon the last, thin thread of control she had.
But Denise resists because she still loves her husband and because he was killed by supernatural beings. The last thing she wants is to be with a vampire.
So, Spade will do everything that he can to seduce her without forcing himself to her, because he is a good guy and he has already lost a human girl that he loved before by a few bad guys. He wants to live something real and he is truly in love.
“I wanted you to watch, so I stomped around the room to wake you before I got into the shower. Didn’t you wonder why the light was on? It wasn’t for me, I can see in the dark. And then I kept the water cold so the glass wouldn’t fog.”
“With your body, that should count as entrapment,” Denise muttered, feeling her face heat.
“No, darling.” His voice was husky. “It’s seduction, and I have no qualms about that. I intend to seduce you every chance I get.”
He drew away, letting his hands slide from her grip. “I’ll be taking that shower now.” His brow rose with meaning. “And I’ll leave the door open.”
A demon has trapped Denise because one of her ancestors did a bad deal. This is the main reason these two ended up together. Denise did not know who to ask for help and Bones’ best friend was a good choice. While they run away from the demon and they survive; they will also fall in love.
A very nice addition to the Night Huntress world. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
There were moments that Spade is even hotter than Bones. And the fact that Denise resists makes the story very interesting and different from the main series’ books.
January 24, 2023
This is the first book in the Night Huntress World series, a spinoff from the *glorious* Night huntress series.
Denise MacGregory, best friend to legendary Cat Crawfield. She been through so much shit but still hella strong and got some bite *yes its a vampire pun*
“Don’t you ‘Denise’ me,” she snapped, “I don’t care how old, powerful, or strong you are. If you ever do something like that again, I’ll stab you n the heart. You son of a bitch, I can’t believe you threw me off a plane!”
Well reading it, you can't help but compare Denise to Cat. Where Cat is murderous and vengeful, Denise has been hardened by personal tragedy so she more skeptical and protective. She sees the world for all its dangers but refuses to let that hold her back. I mean come on, the girl told fucking Ian that he looks like "a Dracula porn movie reject" *iconic*
Spade the old powerful vampire so he tends to be a little... old-fashioned
“First she’d manipulated him, now she insulted him. “No.”
She blinked. “No?”
“I understand your confusion,” Spade said smoothly, “since it seems you don’t hear that word often, but allow me to explain. It means I’m not your employee.“
Sadly, I didn't feel like Spade really differentiated himself from Bones... minus the whole accent thing... He just the classic trifecta: brave, loyal and bloodthirsty ( •̀ᴗ•́ )و ̑̑ :
“If Spade couldn’t discover any concrete information on demon dispatchment, he’d start with decapitation and work his way down from there.”
Now lets get to the romance build up
Neither is perfect and they have both lost people and it just made them even fucking better. While Cat has a great backstory, she hasn't really had personal tragedy or loss. Denise fights even through she been thru hell. And Spade patient but possessive. Just amazing:
“There’s nothing casual about my feelings for you, Denise,” he whispered. His voice deepened. “And I have no intention of letting you go anywhere tomorrow, or the next day, or the next.”
While it's not *quite* insta-love. The build-up does go smooth and steady from sass to tentative allies to boomshakalaka
Honestly, I think I'm just sad to leave this world so I'm clinging to it via any characters that I can (oh come on, who can blame me?)
While some series do spinoffs that leave me feeling unfilled **cuz I just wanna know what my usual main characters are up 2**. This one didn't!! I'm not sure if its because that the storylines are creatively intertwined, or because the characters were hilarious or I'm just a vampire slut. Those are all viable factors. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
So if you're like me and not ready to leave this hilarious fresh take on a cliche paranormal world, then I highly suggest adding this TR list and meeting ♡ Denise and Spade ♡
Denise MacGregory, best friend to legendary Cat Crawfield. She been through so much shit but still hella strong and got some bite *yes its a vampire pun*
“Don’t you ‘Denise’ me,” she snapped, “I don’t care how old, powerful, or strong you are. If you ever do something like that again, I’ll stab you n the heart. You son of a bitch, I can’t believe you threw me off a plane!”
Well reading it, you can't help but compare Denise to Cat. Where Cat is murderous and vengeful, Denise has been hardened by personal tragedy so she more skeptical and protective. She sees the world for all its dangers but refuses to let that hold her back. I mean come on, the girl told fucking Ian that he looks like "a Dracula porn movie reject" *iconic*
Spade the old powerful vampire so he tends to be a little... old-fashioned
“First she’d manipulated him, now she insulted him. “No.”
She blinked. “No?”
“I understand your confusion,” Spade said smoothly, “since it seems you don’t hear that word often, but allow me to explain. It means I’m not your employee.“
Sadly, I didn't feel like Spade really differentiated himself from Bones... minus the whole accent thing... He just the classic trifecta: brave, loyal and bloodthirsty ( •̀ᴗ•́ )و ̑̑ :
“If Spade couldn’t discover any concrete information on demon dispatchment, he’d start with decapitation and work his way down from there.”
Now lets get to the romance build up
Neither is perfect and they have both lost people and it just made them even fucking better. While Cat has a great backstory, she hasn't really had personal tragedy or loss. Denise fights even through she been thru hell. And Spade patient but possessive. Just amazing:
“There’s nothing casual about my feelings for you, Denise,” he whispered. His voice deepened. “And I have no intention of letting you go anywhere tomorrow, or the next day, or the next.”
While it's not *quite* insta-love. The build-up does go smooth and steady from sass to tentative allies to boomshakalaka
Honestly, I think I'm just sad to leave this world so I'm clinging to it via any characters that I can (oh come on, who can blame me?)
While some series do spinoffs that leave me feeling unfilled **cuz I just wanna know what my usual main characters are up 2**. This one didn't!! I'm not sure if its because that the storylines are creatively intertwined, or because the characters were hilarious or I'm just a vampire slut. Those are all viable factors. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
So if you're like me and not ready to leave this hilarious fresh take on a cliche paranormal world, then I highly suggest adding this TR list and meeting ♡ Denise and Spade ♡
February 5, 2017
I've been feeling less and less enthusiastic about the Night Huntress books with each new instalment I've read and sadly this one just continued that trend. There was nothing overly bad with the story. It was just very dull.
We took a break from Cat and Bones and got the story of a couple of their friends pairing up. It was Spade, Bones old vamp buddy, and Denise, Cat's human best friend. Denise has been trying to avoid the paranormal world since her husband got murdered by vampires in one of the earlier NH books but finds herself sucked back in when a demon starts killing off her family members! One of her ancestors had reneged on a deal and the creature was not exacting vengeance on the rest of the family. With Cat and Bones half the world away Denise calls Spade, the only other vamp she knows, for help. This is PNR so it will not be a shock to hear the pair fall in love along the way!
I feel like I should have enjoyed this as it had most of the stuff I usually like in a PNR but for some reason I was always just a little bored while listening to the story. Both Denise and Spade were likeable enough and they even seemed a good match for each other but I just could not work up any enthusiasm for their tale. It probably did not help that the pair felt and acted exactly like Cat and Bones!
I think I'm done with the NH world. It is a shame as I liked the first few books and was hoping a break from Cat and Bones would rekindle my enthusiasm for the world and the secondary characters.
Rating: 2.5 stars. I'm rounding down to 2 as it was a bit of a chore to finish this one.
Audio Note: Even Tavia Gilbert sounded a bit bored while reading this one.
We took a break from Cat and Bones and got the story of a couple of their friends pairing up. It was Spade, Bones old vamp buddy, and Denise, Cat's human best friend. Denise has been trying to avoid the paranormal world since her husband got murdered by vampires in one of the earlier NH books but finds herself sucked back in when a demon starts killing off her family members! One of her ancestors had reneged on a deal and the creature was not exacting vengeance on the rest of the family. With Cat and Bones half the world away Denise calls Spade, the only other vamp she knows, for help. This is PNR so it will not be a shock to hear the pair fall in love along the way!
I feel like I should have enjoyed this as it had most of the stuff I usually like in a PNR but for some reason I was always just a little bored while listening to the story. Both Denise and Spade were likeable enough and they even seemed a good match for each other but I just could not work up any enthusiasm for their tale. It probably did not help that the pair felt and acted exactly like Cat and Bones!
I think I'm done with the NH world. It is a shame as I liked the first few books and was hoping a break from Cat and Bones would rekindle my enthusiasm for the world and the secondary characters.
Rating: 2.5 stars. I'm rounding down to 2 as it was a bit of a chore to finish this one.
Audio Note: Even Tavia Gilbert sounded a bit bored while reading this one.
February 9, 2010
Fantastic fun! It was intense, a bit gruesome, suspenseful and soooo sexy! Spade, I underestimated you!! Please forgive me Bones, but step aside! There's a new man in my life....:)
This is Denise McGregor's story (you remember her--"human" best friend to half-vampire Cat Crawfield, who is half of the Bones/Cat super-couple)? Well, ever since Denise's husband Randy met his demise (in the most horrible way) in At Grave's End, Denise has been trying to stay away from her friends in the immortal world, wanting to make a clean break from her past and all the horrors she witnessed and the guilt she feels over Randy's death. But when her young relatives start (suspiciously) dropping like flies, one after the other, and she witnesses one of the deaths which is actually a murder, and the murderer turns into a dog right before her eyes, she knows she needs help. But who? Who would believe her when the authorities think the deaths are just the result of heart attacks? Cat, that's who. But when Denise has trouble reaching her, she reluctantly turns to the one person who would know Cat's where-abouts--the powerful, mysterious, and sexy as hell vampire, Spade. Spade doesn't want Denise to involve Cat and Bones in her problem, since they've recently had their own rough time, and agrees to come to her in Fort Worth. But before Spade can get to her, she is visited by a demon named Raum who wants a very specific thing from her. Find one of her long ago relatives (Nathaniel) who welshed on a deal with Raum and is probably hiding out among vampires, and bring Nathanial to him or watch her parents be the next victims of an early demise. Oh yeah, and to make sure she cooperates, he leaves her with some demon "brands" that could turn her into a demon shape-shifter like him along with unique qualities to her blood that could threaten her very existence and make her a valuable commodity to the vampire underworld.
So Spade arrives, finds Denise "branded" by a demon and listens to her plans of finding the elusive Nathanial, and since he's adamant that she doesn't involve Cat and Bones in her plan, he reluctantly agrees to help her in their place. It won't be easy tracking Nathanial, he could be the property of a number of vampires, and Denise and Spade's search takes them from NYC to Las Vegas, to England, and various cities in Europe, ending in a big party in Monaco where it's revealed just who has Nathanial and what has been done to him for the past 150 years.
Now, while all this is going on, Spade and Denise try to fight the attraction that has been brewing between them since they first met years ago. Because of Spade's tragic last great romance over 150 years ago, he vowed never to get involved romantically with a female human again--humans were just for casual "shagging" and feeding. And since Denise is a friend of Cat and Bones, there could be nothing casual between them. But boy is he tempted.
As is Denise. Even though Randy's been dead a year, and Denise wants to move on, she doesn't want to be attracted to Spade and be drawn back into the world that left her with nightmares. But after spending more and more time with him, and witnessing what a good man he is, and his old-world charm and his modern day sexiness, how can a girl resist?
Okay, more than enough said. You'll just have to read it and get swept up in it like I did. Jeaniene Frost does not disappoint--there is not a slow spot in this book. If you've read the first 4 books in the previous series and enjoyed them, you'll find this one just as enjoyable. This book was a very easy read, and I was able to slip right back into the world JF created even though I've read many books since Destined for an Early Grave. I felt this book had more romance and less action in terms of the "fighting" that Cat and Bones had to do, even though there is some action (especially the exciting conclusion where Denise proves how much she's changed--both physically and emotionally). But the best part for me was the romance between Spade and Denise--it was filled with sexual tension (OMG, Spade's shower scene!) that just built and built, and then the payoff? Whew! Turn up the AC, or run outside in the snow! Verrry erotic and verry passionate!
Fans of Bones and Cat, don't despair! You know JF had to include them in this book, and they do show up, just in the nick of time. You'll also see plenty of Ian (who is both annoying and charming--I'm dying to read his book), and even Mencheres gets in on the act, and is important in the final showdown with Raum. This story just hit all the right notes for me--there's romance, action, humor, some creepiness, and plenty of moments that left me sighing. And oh my, I fear I may have fallen for Spade as well. He is just so...hot! Spade and Denise made one terrific couple, and to those of you who may feel that Cat is a little 'tough', you may find Denise as a heroine more to your liking (although she can kick some serious a**!) There wasn't anything I didn't love about this story--it gets 5 big stars from me!
This is Denise McGregor's story (you remember her--"human" best friend to half-vampire Cat Crawfield, who is half of the Bones/Cat super-couple)? Well, ever since Denise's husband Randy met his demise (in the most horrible way) in At Grave's End, Denise has been trying to stay away from her friends in the immortal world, wanting to make a clean break from her past and all the horrors she witnessed and the guilt she feels over Randy's death. But when her young relatives start (suspiciously) dropping like flies, one after the other, and she witnesses one of the deaths which is actually a murder, and the murderer turns into a dog right before her eyes, she knows she needs help. But who? Who would believe her when the authorities think the deaths are just the result of heart attacks? Cat, that's who. But when Denise has trouble reaching her, she reluctantly turns to the one person who would know Cat's where-abouts--the powerful, mysterious, and sexy as hell vampire, Spade. Spade doesn't want Denise to involve Cat and Bones in her problem, since they've recently had their own rough time, and agrees to come to her in Fort Worth. But before Spade can get to her, she is visited by a demon named Raum who wants a very specific thing from her. Find one of her long ago relatives (Nathaniel) who welshed on a deal with Raum and is probably hiding out among vampires, and bring Nathanial to him or watch her parents be the next victims of an early demise. Oh yeah, and to make sure she cooperates, he leaves her with some demon "brands" that could turn her into a demon shape-shifter like him along with unique qualities to her blood that could threaten her very existence and make her a valuable commodity to the vampire underworld.
So Spade arrives, finds Denise "branded" by a demon and listens to her plans of finding the elusive Nathanial, and since he's adamant that she doesn't involve Cat and Bones in her plan, he reluctantly agrees to help her in their place. It won't be easy tracking Nathanial, he could be the property of a number of vampires, and Denise and Spade's search takes them from NYC to Las Vegas, to England, and various cities in Europe, ending in a big party in Monaco where it's revealed just who has Nathanial and what has been done to him for the past 150 years.
Now, while all this is going on, Spade and Denise try to fight the attraction that has been brewing between them since they first met years ago. Because of Spade's tragic last great romance over 150 years ago, he vowed never to get involved romantically with a female human again--humans were just for casual "shagging" and feeding. And since Denise is a friend of Cat and Bones, there could be nothing casual between them. But boy is he tempted.
As is Denise. Even though Randy's been dead a year, and Denise wants to move on, she doesn't want to be attracted to Spade and be drawn back into the world that left her with nightmares. But after spending more and more time with him, and witnessing what a good man he is, and his old-world charm and his modern day sexiness, how can a girl resist?
Okay, more than enough said. You'll just have to read it and get swept up in it like I did. Jeaniene Frost does not disappoint--there is not a slow spot in this book. If you've read the first 4 books in the previous series and enjoyed them, you'll find this one just as enjoyable. This book was a very easy read, and I was able to slip right back into the world JF created even though I've read many books since Destined for an Early Grave. I felt this book had more romance and less action in terms of the "fighting" that Cat and Bones had to do, even though there is some action (especially the exciting conclusion where Denise proves how much she's changed--both physically and emotionally). But the best part for me was the romance between Spade and Denise--it was filled with sexual tension (OMG, Spade's shower scene!) that just built and built, and then the payoff? Whew! Turn up the AC, or run outside in the snow! Verrry erotic and verry passionate!
Fans of Bones and Cat, don't despair! You know JF had to include them in this book, and they do show up, just in the nick of time. You'll also see plenty of Ian (who is both annoying and charming--I'm dying to read his book), and even Mencheres gets in on the act, and is important in the final showdown with Raum. This story just hit all the right notes for me--there's romance, action, humor, some creepiness, and plenty of moments that left me sighing. And oh my, I fear I may have fallen for Spade as well. He is just so...hot! Spade and Denise made one terrific couple, and to those of you who may feel that Cat is a little 'tough', you may find Denise as a heroine more to your liking (although she can kick some serious a**!) There wasn't anything I didn't love about this story--it gets 5 big stars from me!
April 30, 2011
Wow, well, this is the first book in the Night Huntress World (spin-offs from the Night Huntress series) and focused on two characters that Frost's other novels have only touched upon briefly: Spade and Denise. Spade is your centuries-old, English (and, of course, sexy) vampire and Denise is the recent widow of Randy, a man killed by forces of the dark and supernatural world. Needless to say, vampires aren't often dinner guests at her home.
What I found most apparent about this book is that Frost had again returned back to the heavy on the sexy/naughty/kinky and light on the plot development. In my opinion, the story was weak. Some demon wanted revenge on one of Denise's long-lost relatives and was taking it out on various members of her family. But, Frost writes banter and lust in a way that can somehow override the need for a brilliant story - she is one of the few writers I know who does that well. She creates characters that you love and feel like you know, so despite whatever stupid demon-whatever-thingy is going on I always find myself interested because the characters are all important to me - even these two which had previously remained on the sidelines.
Frost has a gift for the small and funny but memorable moments. To compare, I would say look at the MacHalo scene in Faefever by Karen Marie Moning, you can't help but remember that moment. I felt the same when Ian, normally rather sly and cunning, came home 'pissed'[drunk] and singing Gilbert and Sullivan's 'I'm the Very Model of a Modern Major General' from 'Pirates of Penzance'. Hilarious.
And Spade, well, he was a lot sexier than I thought he'd be. Especially seeing as he had Bones to compete with. Granted, he will never be Bones in my eyes but the shower scene was fun! Denise was likeable but less impressive because I'm used to the spunky and brave Cat. She did improve throughout the novel, shedding a lot of her timidity that I suppose can be excused after her husband got ripped apart by a zombie.
I will definitely read Eternal Kiss of Darkness about Mencheres. I'm even more keen to read it after finishing Destined for an Early Grave, simply because we saw a lot more of him and his sense of humour:
Mencheres: Then you remember the dream. That bodes ill.
Cat: Hey, Walks Like An Egyptian, how about for once you drop the formal stuff and talk like you live in the twenty-first century?
Mencheres: The shit’s gonna splatter, start buggin’, yo.
What I found most apparent about this book is that Frost had again returned back to the heavy on the sexy/naughty/kinky and light on the plot development. In my opinion, the story was weak. Some demon wanted revenge on one of Denise's long-lost relatives and was taking it out on various members of her family. But, Frost writes banter and lust in a way that can somehow override the need for a brilliant story - she is one of the few writers I know who does that well. She creates characters that you love and feel like you know, so despite whatever stupid demon-whatever-thingy is going on I always find myself interested because the characters are all important to me - even these two which had previously remained on the sidelines.
Frost has a gift for the small and funny but memorable moments. To compare, I would say look at the MacHalo scene in Faefever by Karen Marie Moning, you can't help but remember that moment. I felt the same when Ian, normally rather sly and cunning, came home 'pissed'[drunk] and singing Gilbert and Sullivan's 'I'm the Very Model of a Modern Major General' from 'Pirates of Penzance'. Hilarious.
And Spade, well, he was a lot sexier than I thought he'd be. Especially seeing as he had Bones to compete with. Granted, he will never be Bones in my eyes but the shower scene was fun! Denise was likeable but less impressive because I'm used to the spunky and brave Cat. She did improve throughout the novel, shedding a lot of her timidity that I suppose can be excused after her husband got ripped apart by a zombie.
I will definitely read Eternal Kiss of Darkness about Mencheres. I'm even more keen to read it after finishing Destined for an Early Grave, simply because we saw a lot more of him and his sense of humour:
Mencheres: Then you remember the dream. That bodes ill.
Cat: Hey, Walks Like An Egyptian, how about for once you drop the formal stuff and talk like you live in the twenty-first century?
Mencheres: The shit’s gonna splatter, start buggin’, yo.
January 7, 2019
Re-read with the crew at Buddies Books and Baubles
Original Review July 2013
This is really not a standalone book. If you haven’t read the first four books in the Night Huntress series you really shouldn’t read this one first. For a few reasons that I won’t go into but trust me when I say it would spoil much of the other books for you.
I will say I very much like Spade, he is still a little broken and definitely duty and honor bound. He is very much a good hero and could be swoonable. He becomes extremely delicate with Denise as he tries reluctantly to help her. Denise is not my favorite heroine she obsesses a little with does he like me or is it just a show and is suffering from PTSD so sometimes acts very irrational. While she grows on you throughout the story sometimes the over obsessing about how much money this is all costing Spade borders on ridiculous. But I guess she is a human living after some very traumatic experiences in the vampire world it is slightly true to life how a normal person would react to something like that.
Ian is a bright and shining bit of comic relief and I was glad to see him enter the story. I have liked his character more and more since the third book in the Night Huntress series.
“Luscious, aren't I, poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind.”
-“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject”
-“Let‟s not speak of him. Like the devil, Vlad might appear if we do.”
Oh this story could have used a little Vlad. I liked that this is now third person so we get to see things from both Denise and Spade that makes everything more enjoyable but overall it isn’t quite as dynamic a story as the other books by Jeaniene Frost.
Still overall if you have enjoyed the other books in this series this is a fun read about two of the side characters that have similar backstories of losing someone they loved dearly who are from to different worlds. Denise wanted to be rid of the vampire world after losing her husband Randy and Spade never wanted to love a human again after losing the woman he intended to marry.
Small appearances are made by Cat Bones and Mencheries but my favorite couple of Cat and Bones didn’t have quiet enough time to steal the scene. There are some tender moments and the idea of the demon was an interesting twist on things. Still a solid fun read but not as strong as the rest of the Night Huntress books thus far.
Original Review July 2013
This is really not a standalone book. If you haven’t read the first four books in the Night Huntress series you really shouldn’t read this one first. For a few reasons that I won’t go into but trust me when I say it would spoil much of the other books for you.
I will say I very much like Spade, he is still a little broken and definitely duty and honor bound. He is very much a good hero and could be swoonable. He becomes extremely delicate with Denise as he tries reluctantly to help her. Denise is not my favorite heroine she obsesses a little with does he like me or is it just a show and is suffering from PTSD so sometimes acts very irrational. While she grows on you throughout the story sometimes the over obsessing about how much money this is all costing Spade borders on ridiculous. But I guess she is a human living after some very traumatic experiences in the vampire world it is slightly true to life how a normal person would react to something like that.
Ian is a bright and shining bit of comic relief and I was glad to see him enter the story. I have liked his character more and more since the third book in the Night Huntress series.
“Luscious, aren't I, poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind.”
-“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject”
-“Let‟s not speak of him. Like the devil, Vlad might appear if we do.”
Oh this story could have used a little Vlad. I liked that this is now third person so we get to see things from both Denise and Spade that makes everything more enjoyable but overall it isn’t quite as dynamic a story as the other books by Jeaniene Frost.
Still overall if you have enjoyed the other books in this series this is a fun read about two of the side characters that have similar backstories of losing someone they loved dearly who are from to different worlds. Denise wanted to be rid of the vampire world after losing her husband Randy and Spade never wanted to love a human again after losing the woman he intended to marry.
Small appearances are made by Cat Bones and Mencheries but my favorite couple of Cat and Bones didn’t have quiet enough time to steal the scene. There are some tender moments and the idea of the demon was an interesting twist on things. Still a solid fun read but not as strong as the rest of the Night Huntress books thus far.
November 17, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I had a great time with this book the second time around. If you had asked me what I remembered about this book before I started this re-read, I would have told you next to nothing. It turns out that a lot of this story was so familiar that I am pretty sure that I remembered a whole lot more than I thought I did. I think that I might have actually liked the book a little more on this re-read.
Denise has kept her distance from the vampire community after the losses she has suffered. I don't blame her at all for that decision. When she finds herself needing help with a demon after her family, she calls Charles, or Spade, for help. The problem ends up being a lot bigger than either of them expected but they are determined to bring things to an end.
I really liked Denise and Spade and thought it was nice to get to see both of these characters take center stage. I thought that they had fabulous chemistry from the very start which only grew stronger over the course of the story. I thought that they worked really well together and I was eager to see them work together to make it happen. They really did make a good team.
Tavia Gilbert does a great job with this series. I love how consistent she has been with the voice of the characters in this series. I almost jumped for joy when Bones and Cat made an appearance because I was looking forward to hearing them speak. I thought that she added a lot of emotion into the story and added to the excitement.
I would recommend this series to others. This is the first book in the Night Huntress World series or the fifth book in the Night Huntress Universe. I would recommend reading the earlier books in the Night Huntress Universe before this one since those events and characters are discussed and play a role. I can't wait for more from Jeaniene Frost!
Initial Thoughts
I loved it! Spade and Denise are no Cat and Bones but I did enjoy revisiting their story. And we do get to see Cat and Bones in this one before it was over. I liked getting to know their characters a bit better and was eager to see how things would eventually work out. Tavia Gilbert did an outstanding job with the narration.
Book source: Audible purchase
I had a great time with this book the second time around. If you had asked me what I remembered about this book before I started this re-read, I would have told you next to nothing. It turns out that a lot of this story was so familiar that I am pretty sure that I remembered a whole lot more than I thought I did. I think that I might have actually liked the book a little more on this re-read.
Denise has kept her distance from the vampire community after the losses she has suffered. I don't blame her at all for that decision. When she finds herself needing help with a demon after her family, she calls Charles, or Spade, for help. The problem ends up being a lot bigger than either of them expected but they are determined to bring things to an end.
I really liked Denise and Spade and thought it was nice to get to see both of these characters take center stage. I thought that they had fabulous chemistry from the very start which only grew stronger over the course of the story. I thought that they worked really well together and I was eager to see them work together to make it happen. They really did make a good team.
Tavia Gilbert does a great job with this series. I love how consistent she has been with the voice of the characters in this series. I almost jumped for joy when Bones and Cat made an appearance because I was looking forward to hearing them speak. I thought that she added a lot of emotion into the story and added to the excitement.
I would recommend this series to others. This is the first book in the Night Huntress World series or the fifth book in the Night Huntress Universe. I would recommend reading the earlier books in the Night Huntress Universe before this one since those events and characters are discussed and play a role. I can't wait for more from Jeaniene Frost!
Initial Thoughts
I loved it! Spade and Denise are no Cat and Bones but I did enjoy revisiting their story. And we do get to see Cat and Bones in this one before it was over. I liked getting to know their characters a bit better and was eager to see how things would eventually work out. Tavia Gilbert did an outstanding job with the narration.
Book source: Audible purchase
November 27, 2014
I love Jeaniene Frost's The Night Huntress series and I was so excited that Slade, Bone’s best friend, was finally getting his own book.
Slade was always an interesting character in TNH series….gorgeous, mysterious…not as outgoing as Bones but still as fabulous!
The Night Huntress World series, the spin off from The Night Huntress series starts with First Drop of Crimson and follows Spade and Cat’s best friend, Denise’s story.
Denise has been marked by a demon and Spade helps her track down the demon and her ancestors, who play a role on her being “terrorized” by the very bad and seemingly indestructible demon.
I loved the tension and attraction between the two of them. They are such a good match.
I enjoyed their back-story and how much they helped each other.
Cat & Bones make an appearance…which gave me my C&B fix!!!!!
If you like the Night Huntress series, you will love this one!!!
Slade was always an interesting character in TNH series….gorgeous, mysterious…not as outgoing as Bones but still as fabulous!
The Night Huntress World series, the spin off from The Night Huntress series starts with First Drop of Crimson and follows Spade and Cat’s best friend, Denise’s story.
Denise has been marked by a demon and Spade helps her track down the demon and her ancestors, who play a role on her being “terrorized” by the very bad and seemingly indestructible demon.
I loved the tension and attraction between the two of them. They are such a good match.
I enjoyed their back-story and how much they helped each other.
Cat & Bones make an appearance…which gave me my C&B fix!!!!!
If you like the Night Huntress series, you will love this one!!!
August 10, 2017
4.5 Demonic Stars!!
I first read this back in 2011, at the time it was probably the book I enjoyed the least in this wonderful spin-off series. For some reason I decided to revisit Spade and Denise and I must admit I enjoyed it very much this time around.
Spade is ever the gallant gentleman vampire, but, we also get to see his overprotective ruthless vampire side when it comes to saving Denise from a Demon.
Denise has been separated from her vampire friends since her husband Randy's brutal death in At Grave's End however; a Demon is now stalking her and with Cat & Bones in another country it's Spade who comes to her aide.
Denise is still struggling with PTSD and has really bad moments when in certain situations, but, Spade manages to gain her trust and sooth her through these difficult episodes. Spade is patient, caring, and understanding and eventually (although it still seemed to take freaking forever!) gains her trust.
As the Demon continues to be a threat Spade and Denise grow closer and closer....especially after a particular (OMG oh so SEXY!!!) shower scene Spade arranges!! I loved that it wasn't instant love on both parts, they both had to get over lost loves and slowly begin to trust in their feelings.
We get appearances from our favorite naughty vampire Ian and naturally Cat, Bones, and Mencheres. I thoroughly enjoyed my reread and upped my original three star rating.
Favorites Quotes:
❤️ "Luscious, aren't I poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind." ~ Ian to Denise
❤️ "You look like a Dracula Porn movie reject." ~ Denise to Ian
❤️ "Lucifer's bouncing balls, that's why your acting like a nutter! You've gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn't see it on your face myself, I wouldn't believe it." ~ Bones to Spade
❤️ "It was the sort of bone deep emotion that made him want to hold her tighter with one hand, and draw a sword against the world with the other." ~ Spade
Off to reread Mencheres and Kira's book Eternal Kiss of Darkness..........
Originally read: September 2011
I first read this back in 2011, at the time it was probably the book I enjoyed the least in this wonderful spin-off series. For some reason I decided to revisit Spade and Denise and I must admit I enjoyed it very much this time around.
Spade is ever the gallant gentleman vampire, but, we also get to see his overprotective ruthless vampire side when it comes to saving Denise from a Demon.
Denise has been separated from her vampire friends since her husband Randy's brutal death in At Grave's End however; a Demon is now stalking her and with Cat & Bones in another country it's Spade who comes to her aide.
Denise is still struggling with PTSD and has really bad moments when in certain situations, but, Spade manages to gain her trust and sooth her through these difficult episodes. Spade is patient, caring, and understanding and eventually (although it still seemed to take freaking forever!) gains her trust.
As the Demon continues to be a threat Spade and Denise grow closer and closer....especially after a particular (OMG oh so SEXY!!!) shower scene Spade arranges!! I loved that it wasn't instant love on both parts, they both had to get over lost loves and slowly begin to trust in their feelings.
We get appearances from our favorite naughty vampire Ian and naturally Cat, Bones, and Mencheres. I thoroughly enjoyed my reread and upped my original three star rating.
Favorites Quotes:
❤️ "Luscious, aren't I poppet? Go on, stare. I don't mind." ~ Ian to Denise
❤️ "You look like a Dracula Porn movie reject." ~ Denise to Ian
❤️ "Lucifer's bouncing balls, that's why your acting like a nutter! You've gone and fallen in love with her. Bloody hell, if I didn't see it on your face myself, I wouldn't believe it." ~ Bones to Spade
❤️ "It was the sort of bone deep emotion that made him want to hold her tighter with one hand, and draw a sword against the world with the other." ~ Spade
Off to reread Mencheres and Kira's book Eternal Kiss of Darkness..........
Originally read: September 2011
March 3, 2016
First Drop of Crimson is the first book in the Night Huntress World series. After falling in love with Cat and Bones, it's only natural to delve into a spin off in their world. Straight up, you need to read this series in order. The first book, Halfway to the Grave, introduces the Night Huntress world and each book thereafter contains major spoilers. It will greatly enhance your reading experience to read them in order.
Let's get down to business, shall we? This book was a disappointment. I had zero connection to this couple. Denise's character is so flat, you could have paired a doormat up with the hero and created the same amount of interest. The couple was thrown together in a contrived fashion with no build up and minimal (at best) explanation. And let me say, the demon story line was interesting, but there were too many questions left unanswered for me. It needed more demon background since the species was newly introduced. I was left wanting more.
To conclude, I loved Spade in the Night Huntress series and was a tad upset that this book wasn't better. It was nice to see our favorite characters Cat and Bones, and even Ian, who continues to become more interesting to me. I love Jeaniene Frost's writing and story telling, and an okay read from her won't in any way stop me from continuing to be a big fan of hers. The next book in this series is Mencheres's book. I like him and I'm hopeful he will get a fabulous book. I can't wait to read it.
Rating Legend:
5 star-love it
4 star-liked it
3 star-it's okay
2 star-don't like it
1 star-hate it
Let's get down to business, shall we? This book was a disappointment. I had zero connection to this couple. Denise's character is so flat, you could have paired a doormat up with the hero and created the same amount of interest. The couple was thrown together in a contrived fashion with no build up and minimal (at best) explanation. And let me say, the demon story line was interesting, but there were too many questions left unanswered for me. It needed more demon background since the species was newly introduced. I was left wanting more.
To conclude, I loved Spade in the Night Huntress series and was a tad upset that this book wasn't better. It was nice to see our favorite characters Cat and Bones, and even Ian, who continues to become more interesting to me. I love Jeaniene Frost's writing and story telling, and an okay read from her won't in any way stop me from continuing to be a big fan of hers. The next book in this series is Mencheres's book. I like him and I'm hopeful he will get a fabulous book. I can't wait to read it.
Rating Legend:
5 star-love it
4 star-liked it
3 star-it's okay
2 star-don't like it
1 star-hate it
December 22, 2014
Watch out, Bones! Spade is heeeerrre!
First Drop of Crimson is the first book in the Night Huntress World (NHW) series. Although it is technically a different series, these books are meant to be read in order of the publication date, meaning there is some back and forth between this series and the Night Huntress (NH) series. This is supposed to be read after NH #4. The focus is on two secondary characters from the NH series, Spade, Bones’ best friend & Denise, Cat’s best friend. Before reading this, all I knew is it was “Spade’s book,” which is what I affectionately refer to it as! :) I didn’t know (for sure at least) that Denise was the other main character in this though.
So, this book is centered around the problem of Denise being threatened and blackmailed with the lives of her family members by a demon. Denise doesn’t know what to do or who to turn to, so in trying to get in touch with Cat and/or Bones, she ends up speaking with Spade. Spade being the gentlemen that he is, offers to help Denise even though she adamantly refuses.
“A vampire private investigator?” he repeated.
“You’re putting me on, right?”
“I know you have vampire hit men, so why wouldn’t you have vampire private investigators, too?” she flared back.
“I can’t just run an ad with Nathanial’s description on it titled ‘Have you seen this soul welsher?’”
The funny thing about this particular partnership is that Denise wants nothing to do with vampires and Spade feels the same way about humans.
“Humans. Aside from tasting delicious, they were usually more trouble than they were worth.”
Even though they both have an aversion to the others species, they have this odd chemistry. What we didn’t know in the Night Huntress series was that Spade and Denise both noticed each other immediately upon their first meetings, not necessarily in a lustful way, but more in a curious, bewildering way. As Spade and Denise spend more time together, their attraction grows.
“Denise was more than a situational fancy. She was special. When he was with her, she stirred things in him that he hadn’t felt in a century and a half, and it had started from the first moment he laid eyes on her.”
I had always loved Spade, but didn’t really have feelings for Denise one way or another from the NH series, but I REALLY LOVED them both in this book! It is told in third person, so we get to see what both Denise and Spade are thinking and feeling throughout the book. It was so awesome to see another side to Denise. In NH, she seems so sweet, innocent, and unassuming. Here, we get to see that she is a more dynamic character, she’s strong, brave, and actually really funny. And of course, SPADE! He is AMAZING! Starting this book, I never thought I would fall for him the way I did. He is such a mess of contradictions and I LOVE IT! He is a gentleman, but so intense and fierce (sometimes to the point I wanted to smack him, but hey...). Denise says it perfectly, “[Spade] was attentive and charming. Add that to his odd combination of gallantry, ruthlessness, and loyalty.” He is just a big bundle of hot, swoony, perfection! I love how him and Denise interact. They are both trying to keep the other at arms length, it was pretty entertaining and I enjoyed Spade’s dry humor SO MUCH!
“First she’d manipulated him, now she insulted him. “No.” She blinked.
“No?” “I understand your confusion,” Spade said smoothly, “since it seems you don’t hear that word often, but allow me to explain.”
Even though this is primarily Spade and Denise’s book, Cat, Bones, and Mencheres make some appearances. But, who really made an impression and shined throughout was Ian. He is so effing hilarious! The perfect combination of asshole-ness and humor to make him a character I can’t help but love! It was also fun to see Denise give him shit for his crazy antics.
“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject.”
…
“Before you go, mate, turn on the telly. Something raunchy too. Think I'll rub off one before I go to sleep.”
The progression of the relationship between Denise and Spade was fun and interesting and there were such amazing moments that gave me chills!
“And at no time have I ever touched you where it’s been anything but real.”
It was witty, entertaining, still with the action typical of NH, and the steaminess! The perve in me was very satisfied by this one! ;) This book was just so much AWESOME! I can’t properly articulate WHY it worked for me, but it just did. I ate it up, every word. There is just something about the way I felt during this that just makes it stand out for me. I LOVED IT, the epilogue was PERFECTION and had me slightly tearing up as I read it. I feel like having read it will add so much when I get back to the NH series to read book 5 (after NHW #2). I highly, highly recommend this book!
4.5 stars!
First Drop of Crimson is the first book in the Night Huntress World (NHW) series. Although it is technically a different series, these books are meant to be read in order of the publication date, meaning there is some back and forth between this series and the Night Huntress (NH) series. This is supposed to be read after NH #4. The focus is on two secondary characters from the NH series, Spade, Bones’ best friend & Denise, Cat’s best friend. Before reading this, all I knew is it was “Spade’s book,” which is what I affectionately refer to it as! :) I didn’t know (for sure at least) that Denise was the other main character in this though.
So, this book is centered around the problem of Denise being threatened and blackmailed with the lives of her family members by a demon. Denise doesn’t know what to do or who to turn to, so in trying to get in touch with Cat and/or Bones, she ends up speaking with Spade. Spade being the gentlemen that he is, offers to help Denise even though she adamantly refuses.
“A vampire private investigator?” he repeated.
“You’re putting me on, right?”
“I know you have vampire hit men, so why wouldn’t you have vampire private investigators, too?” she flared back.
“I can’t just run an ad with Nathanial’s description on it titled ‘Have you seen this soul welsher?’”
The funny thing about this particular partnership is that Denise wants nothing to do with vampires and Spade feels the same way about humans.
“Humans. Aside from tasting delicious, they were usually more trouble than they were worth.”
Even though they both have an aversion to the others species, they have this odd chemistry. What we didn’t know in the Night Huntress series was that Spade and Denise both noticed each other immediately upon their first meetings, not necessarily in a lustful way, but more in a curious, bewildering way. As Spade and Denise spend more time together, their attraction grows.
“Denise was more than a situational fancy. She was special. When he was with her, she stirred things in him that he hadn’t felt in a century and a half, and it had started from the first moment he laid eyes on her.”
I had always loved Spade, but didn’t really have feelings for Denise one way or another from the NH series, but I REALLY LOVED them both in this book! It is told in third person, so we get to see what both Denise and Spade are thinking and feeling throughout the book. It was so awesome to see another side to Denise. In NH, she seems so sweet, innocent, and unassuming. Here, we get to see that she is a more dynamic character, she’s strong, brave, and actually really funny. And of course, SPADE! He is AMAZING! Starting this book, I never thought I would fall for him the way I did. He is such a mess of contradictions and I LOVE IT! He is a gentleman, but so intense and fierce (sometimes to the point I wanted to smack him, but hey...). Denise says it perfectly, “[Spade] was attentive and charming. Add that to his odd combination of gallantry, ruthlessness, and loyalty.” He is just a big bundle of hot, swoony, perfection! I love how him and Denise interact. They are both trying to keep the other at arms length, it was pretty entertaining and I enjoyed Spade’s dry humor SO MUCH!
“First she’d manipulated him, now she insulted him. “No.” She blinked.
“No?” “I understand your confusion,” Spade said smoothly, “since it seems you don’t hear that word often, but allow me to explain.”
Even though this is primarily Spade and Denise’s book, Cat, Bones, and Mencheres make some appearances. But, who really made an impression and shined throughout was Ian. He is so effing hilarious! The perfect combination of asshole-ness and humor to make him a character I can’t help but love! It was also fun to see Denise give him shit for his crazy antics.
“You look like a Dracula porn movie reject.”
…
“Before you go, mate, turn on the telly. Something raunchy too. Think I'll rub off one before I go to sleep.”
The progression of the relationship between Denise and Spade was fun and interesting and there were such amazing moments that gave me chills!
“And at no time have I ever touched you where it’s been anything but real.”
It was witty, entertaining, still with the action typical of NH, and the steaminess! The perve in me was very satisfied by this one! ;) This book was just so much AWESOME! I can’t properly articulate WHY it worked for me, but it just did. I ate it up, every word. There is just something about the way I felt during this that just makes it stand out for me. I LOVED IT, the epilogue was PERFECTION and had me slightly tearing up as I read it. I feel like having read it will add so much when I get back to the NH series to read book 5 (after NHW #2). I highly, highly recommend this book!
4.5 stars!
April 12, 2011
^^HEY SPADE, I AM WILLING TO SHOW YOU MY ACES!^^
I really enjoyed this continuation of the Night Huntress world, even though it lacked the charm of the previous series; it still brought quite an entertaining story.
We have the best-friends of Cat and Bones in this one. Good ole Denise and Spade, even though I barely tolerated Denise and I am all kinds of obsessed with Spade. We get a vampire versus demon clash, and the transformation of human Denise into something different.
Denise’s whole family is dying and it’s a little suspicious to Denise, being aware of the things that go bump in the night. It just too odd for healthy people to be dying of heart attacks and other natural causes and she has a sneaking suspicion that she is next. When a little girl comes a knocking at her door one night, and then transforms right before her eyes into a man. Seems all the things she feared becomes true, it seems she is a descendent of someone who made a deal with a demon, and he wants the whole family to pay up. Marked with demon marks, Denise has to go to the very things she’s been trying to keep away from, vampires. Being a part of their world has brought her nothing but pain, but it seems that depending on one vamp in particular might end up saving her life.
Spade is a master vampire, ruling over his people, until he gets a call from a woman, he’s been trying to forget, a very human woman. Relationship with humans always ends badly, and Spade knows this first-hand. He gets a call from Denise, and it becomes a job to keep her alive, while trying to avoid his lusty feelings in his pants. It becomes quite predictable actually.
Well I liked it, I really did enjoy Spade. He makes me want eat him alive and spit out his belt afterwards. For those who have read the Cat and Bones series, you will know Ian. He makes this book shine with the very little scenes he has, and I can’t wait to see the woman who lands him; GOOD LUCK GIRL.
THE COVER!! Seriously, what happened here? This is one creepy looking dude, and it no way does it resemble Spade. Spade is sex on legs; this cover guy is one look away from being a pervert or Bram Stokers Dracula (in other words un-sexy). Next time just throw some abs or a sexy back on there; you see we readers don’t really ask for much. If your aim was to not make people read the book, then you have SUCCESS!
So I enjoyed book, wanna do Spade and all that.
I really enjoyed this continuation of the Night Huntress world, even though it lacked the charm of the previous series; it still brought quite an entertaining story.
We have the best-friends of Cat and Bones in this one. Good ole Denise and Spade, even though I barely tolerated Denise and I am all kinds of obsessed with Spade. We get a vampire versus demon clash, and the transformation of human Denise into something different.
Denise’s whole family is dying and it’s a little suspicious to Denise, being aware of the things that go bump in the night. It just too odd for healthy people to be dying of heart attacks and other natural causes and she has a sneaking suspicion that she is next. When a little girl comes a knocking at her door one night, and then transforms right before her eyes into a man. Seems all the things she feared becomes true, it seems she is a descendent of someone who made a deal with a demon, and he wants the whole family to pay up. Marked with demon marks, Denise has to go to the very things she’s been trying to keep away from, vampires. Being a part of their world has brought her nothing but pain, but it seems that depending on one vamp in particular might end up saving her life.
Spade is a master vampire, ruling over his people, until he gets a call from a woman, he’s been trying to forget, a very human woman. Relationship with humans always ends badly, and Spade knows this first-hand. He gets a call from Denise, and it becomes a job to keep her alive, while trying to avoid his lusty feelings in his pants. It becomes quite predictable actually.
Well I liked it, I really did enjoy Spade. He makes me want eat him alive and spit out his belt afterwards. For those who have read the Cat and Bones series, you will know Ian. He makes this book shine with the very little scenes he has, and I can’t wait to see the woman who lands him; GOOD LUCK GIRL.
THE COVER!! Seriously, what happened here? This is one creepy looking dude, and it no way does it resemble Spade. Spade is sex on legs; this cover guy is one look away from being a pervert or Bram Stokers Dracula (in other words un-sexy). Next time just throw some abs or a sexy back on there; you see we readers don’t really ask for much. If your aim was to not make people read the book, then you have SUCCESS!
So I enjoyed book, wanna do Spade and all that.
June 1, 2014
**4 "I'm glad I read this despite the most horrible cover ever", stars**
A spinoff from the Night Huntress series, this is the story of Denise, Cat’s friend, and Spade, Bones’ friend. When Denise watches her cousin murdered right in front of her by a supernatural being, she tries to get in contact with her friends Cat and Bones for help, but they are unreachable taking time off in New Zealand. Instead, Bones’ old vampire friend Spade decides to look into Denise’s dilemma, but isn’t quick enough when the demon comes back and brands Denise with marks and infusing her with his essence. Bottom line? Denise must find a long lost relative and return him to the demon, or he’ll kill her entire family.
I liked this book, Denise and Spade both had such a tragic past and it was nice to see how their relationship developed with all of their emotional obstacles. Some of Frost’s humor came through in this book, but the loss of the banter between Cat and Bones was too noticeable. So an enjoyable read, but not my favorite in these two series.
Originally posted at: http://rachelsreadsravenously.wordpre...
A spinoff from the Night Huntress series, this is the story of Denise, Cat’s friend, and Spade, Bones’ friend. When Denise watches her cousin murdered right in front of her by a supernatural being, she tries to get in contact with her friends Cat and Bones for help, but they are unreachable taking time off in New Zealand. Instead, Bones’ old vampire friend Spade decides to look into Denise’s dilemma, but isn’t quick enough when the demon comes back and brands Denise with marks and infusing her with his essence. Bottom line? Denise must find a long lost relative and return him to the demon, or he’ll kill her entire family.
I liked this book, Denise and Spade both had such a tragic past and it was nice to see how their relationship developed with all of their emotional obstacles. Some of Frost’s humor came through in this book, but the loss of the banter between Cat and Bones was too noticeable. So an enjoyable read, but not my favorite in these two series.
Originally posted at: http://rachelsreadsravenously.wordpre...
January 2, 2019
5 Stars
First Drop of Crimson is a spin-off from the Night Huntress series which is Cat and Bones story. I highly recommend you read the books in order. You get so much more detail that way.
Anyhow, this is Spade and Denise’s story.
I love Jeaniene Frost’s writing. It’s always a win in my book and that is very hard to do in serial series. I so wished Spade and Denise could have gotten an epic series, BUT I am looking forward to Ian’s series!
From the first page I loved the book. I really like Denise in the previous books and I was curious to where her story was going to go. Her husband was killed and she’s coping with the fact she knows Vampires and wants nothing to do with them.
She needs someone to help her and so she asks Shade. I love Shade! He’s adorable, strong and heroic. I love the tension between Denise and Shade. I know the story should sound like it has a lot of angst but it doesn’t.
I like the world building and we get to know a little more of Demons and the kinds there are. I liked that too, it was just different.
The love the way it was written and the flow is amazing. It’s a meaty book but honestly I could have read hundreds more pages.
First Drop of Crimson is a spin-off from the Night Huntress series which is Cat and Bones story. I highly recommend you read the books in order. You get so much more detail that way.
Anyhow, this is Spade and Denise’s story.
I love Jeaniene Frost’s writing. It’s always a win in my book and that is very hard to do in serial series. I so wished Spade and Denise could have gotten an epic series, BUT I am looking forward to Ian’s series!
From the first page I loved the book. I really like Denise in the previous books and I was curious to where her story was going to go. Her husband was killed and she’s coping with the fact she knows Vampires and wants nothing to do with them.
She needs someone to help her and so she asks Shade. I love Shade! He’s adorable, strong and heroic. I love the tension between Denise and Shade. I know the story should sound like it has a lot of angst but it doesn’t.
I like the world building and we get to know a little more of Demons and the kinds there are. I liked that too, it was just different.
The love the way it was written and the flow is amazing. It’s a meaty book but honestly I could have read hundreds more pages.
December 26, 2021
I swear that I've read this book more than 3 times but I can't be sure since I hadn't put anything regarding that on GR until a few days ago when I finished this reread. I love, love, love the world Jeaniene Frost has created and fleshed out with these books. I consider them to be a classic to the vampire PNR genre. The characters are great, the story is fantastic and everything is so well written! I always find myself coming back to them. The audiobook is also fantastic!
August 13, 2012
Disappointing. The plot had so much potential and I love anything paranormal, but throughout the whole book I felt like I was waiting for the story to actually begin. There was absolutely NO chemistry between the two leads. Nada.
July 24, 2021
Vampires, Demons, Oh My!
Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress series is the series that got me back into reading. I fell in love with the world and characters. When Spade was introduced I was hoping he’d get his own story. I do so love it when side-characters you come to enjoy get their own novels or series.
The first time I read First Drop of Crimson I was in love. It was a non-stop read. Same for my second time reading, but now I’ve gone back and listened to the audiobook for the first time and loved the story all over again.
This novel can be read as a stand-alone though it does take place between Destined for an Early Grave and This Side of the Grave.
Spade is Bone’s best friend and Denise is Cat’s best friend. Both are troubled and have issues to overcome; before they can be together.
Denise has been distancing herself from the supernatural world; because of a horrible event in one of the Night Huntress novels that took away the man she loved and has caused her to have PTSD. Even with this distances it looks like the supernatural world will find her and have her facing her fears and maybe finding love again. I enjoyed Denise's struggles and how we see her come out of the slump she has been in and grow into a more confident and powerful woman.
Spade doesn’t date human women, but there is one women that has a pull on him though he try’s not to fall. I liked how he tries to help Denise with her problem and when he figures out he cares and can’t stay away he plays the long game to win Denise over.
Frost writes amazing, realistic, in-depth and very likable characters. Both Denise and Spade are a lot fun, brave, loyal, and protective. Neither one is perfect, which is great. They have that relatable quality to them and if you where in their shows you’d do the same thing. One of my favorite scenes is Spade playing dirty, OMG, all I’ll say is shower - seduction - way to go Spade.
We also get to see Cat and Bones, Ian, and Mencheres. It was nice to see these characters and watch them help out their friend. I also love that Denise got an HEA. It’s a great read and/or listen all around.
Narration: Tavia Gilbert does a wonderful job narrating First Drop of Crimson. She gave Spade, Bones, and Ian very cool accents that totally represent them. I enjoyed all the voices and how I was pulled into the plot and romance. Highly recommend the audiobook.
Rated: 5 Stars
Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress series is the series that got me back into reading. I fell in love with the world and characters. When Spade was introduced I was hoping he’d get his own story. I do so love it when side-characters you come to enjoy get their own novels or series.
The first time I read First Drop of Crimson I was in love. It was a non-stop read. Same for my second time reading, but now I’ve gone back and listened to the audiobook for the first time and loved the story all over again.
This novel can be read as a stand-alone though it does take place between Destined for an Early Grave and This Side of the Grave.
Spade is Bone’s best friend and Denise is Cat’s best friend. Both are troubled and have issues to overcome; before they can be together.
Denise has been distancing herself from the supernatural world; because of a horrible event in one of the Night Huntress novels that took away the man she loved and has caused her to have PTSD. Even with this distances it looks like the supernatural world will find her and have her facing her fears and maybe finding love again. I enjoyed Denise's struggles and how we see her come out of the slump she has been in and grow into a more confident and powerful woman.
Spade doesn’t date human women, but there is one women that has a pull on him though he try’s not to fall. I liked how he tries to help Denise with her problem and when he figures out he cares and can’t stay away he plays the long game to win Denise over.
Frost writes amazing, realistic, in-depth and very likable characters. Both Denise and Spade are a lot fun, brave, loyal, and protective. Neither one is perfect, which is great. They have that relatable quality to them and if you where in their shows you’d do the same thing. One of my favorite scenes is Spade playing dirty, OMG, all I’ll say is shower - seduction - way to go Spade.
We also get to see Cat and Bones, Ian, and Mencheres. It was nice to see these characters and watch them help out their friend. I also love that Denise got an HEA. It’s a great read and/or listen all around.
Narration: Tavia Gilbert does a wonderful job narrating First Drop of Crimson. She gave Spade, Bones, and Ian very cool accents that totally represent them. I enjoyed all the voices and how I was pulled into the plot and romance. Highly recommend the audiobook.
Rated: 5 Stars
December 7, 2017
איזו נוסטלגיה מענגת. קראתי את הספר אי אז ב 2012 כשהייתי בשיא טירוף הערפדים שלי. עכשיו חזרתי לקרוא אותו בתרגום לעברית שהיה ממש לא רע (אם כי היו מספר מקומות שמצאתי טעויות בודדות וזה לא משהו נוראי) אחת הבעיות בתרגום הוא הקושי להעביר אירוניה וסרקזם שעוברים מצויין בשפה האנגלית. אז כן, התרגום לא משעשע כמו המקור אבל עדין מספיק טוב כדי להעביר את העלילה.
הספר עוסק בדמויות הנלוות לציידת הלילה קאט ובעלה הערפד, בונז. הדמויות הנלוות לפעמים יותר מרתקות ולדוגמא הספרים על וולאד, הידוע בשמו דרקולה, היו מצויינים וטובים יותר מאלה של ציידת הלילה.
הספר הזה עוסק בספייד חברו של בונז ובדניס חברתה של קאט. דניס איבדה את בעלה רנדי במתקפת זומבים והיא נמלטת להתבודד ולהתמודד עם אבלה. בזמן הזה, שד מתקיף את משפחתה וכשהוא מגיע לדניס הוא מעמיד לה אולטימטום.
דניס, שמרגישה שאינה יכולה לסכן את בונז, פונה לספייד שייסיע לה כנגד השד ובמהלך הזה דניס וספייד מתאהבים.
האירועים מתגלגלים וכל בני החבורה מצטרפים לעלילה במהלך הספר. אני מדמיינת לעצמי את ספייד כאליל הבנות עם העור השנהבי שלו והשיער הגולש והגוף המפוסל.
באנגלית הקטע עם איאן במרתף, כשדניס חושבת שזה ספייד מאחורי הדלת, קורע מצחוק. גם הקטע עם החתולה היה קורע. משום מה בעברית הוא היה עגום ומצער את הלב.
סהכ מאוד אהבתי את הספרים של ג'אנין פרוסט. לא יודעת אם היא נעלמה או שאני פשוט הפסקתי לרדוף אחרי ערפדים. מה שכן אני שמחה שהקוראות הישראליות נהנות מסידרת ערפדים סקסית, משעשעת שכתובה היטב.
הספר עוסק בדמויות הנלוות לציידת הלילה קאט ובעלה הערפד, בונז. הדמויות הנלוות לפעמים יותר מרתקות ולדוגמא הספרים על וולאד, הידוע בשמו דרקולה, היו מצויינים וטובים יותר מאלה של ציידת הלילה.
הספר הזה עוסק בספייד חברו של בונז ובדניס חברתה של קאט. דניס איבדה את בעלה רנדי במתקפת זומבים והיא נמלטת להתבודד ולהתמודד עם אבלה. בזמן הזה, שד מתקיף את משפחתה וכשהוא מגיע לדניס הוא מעמיד לה אולטימטום.
דניס, שמרגישה שאינה יכולה לסכן את בונז, פונה לספייד שייסיע לה כנגד השד ובמהלך הזה דניס וספייד מתאהבים.
האירועים מתגלגלים וכל בני החבורה מצטרפים לעלילה במהלך הספר. אני מדמיינת לעצמי את ספייד כאליל הבנות עם העור השנהבי שלו והשיער הגולש והגוף המפוסל.
באנגלית הקטע עם איאן במרתף, כשדניס חושבת שזה ספייד מאחורי הדלת, קורע מצחוק. גם הקטע עם החתולה היה קורע. משום מה בעברית הוא היה עגום ומצער את הלב.
סהכ מאוד אהבתי את הספרים של ג'אנין פרוסט. לא יודעת אם היא נעלמה או שאני פשוט הפסקתי לרדוף אחרי ערפדים. מה שכן אני שמחה שהקוראות הישראליות נהנות מסידרת ערפדים סקסית, משעשעת שכתובה היטב.
November 8, 2021
This was a unique take on a human laced with demon blood which makes her an addicting substance to vampires. Loved the old school vibes of Spade (who was formerly an Earl). And the couple had great chemistry.
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1647896333i/31792110._UX200_CR0,96,200,200_.jpg)
March 21, 2022
Very meh.
I always wanted to read Spade's story, and Denise has such a tragic backstory - she was widowed after zombies killed her husband. But it turns out Spade was also in love with a woman who was killed centuries ago, and I'm not really here for that. Yes, the whole 'they'll always be a part of me' thing might be realistic, and a sign of a good person in real life, but in my reading I generally prefer to believe that the hero and heroine are each other's greatest loves.
Also, Spade was unexpectedly boring and his chemistry with Denise was unexpectedly minimal. So there's that.
I always wanted to read Spade's story, and Denise has such a tragic backstory - she was widowed after zombies killed her husband. But it turns out Spade was also in love with a woman who was killed centuries ago, and I'm not really here for that. Yes, the whole 'they'll always be a part of me' thing might be realistic, and a sign of a good person in real life, but in my reading I generally prefer to believe that the hero and heroine are each other's greatest loves.
Also, Spade was unexpectedly boring and his chemistry with Denise was unexpectedly minimal. So there's that.
October 24, 2011
First Drop of Crimson is an entertaining spin-off to the Night Huntress series. We get to dive into Spade and Denise’s story as they come together in this installment to kickoff their adventure in the undead world. It was fun and engaging, but not quite as stimulating as Cat and Bones.
There were a few elements I struggled with in this book. I found Denise nowhere near as strong as Cat in character. Her insecurities and decisions proved to me that she doesn’t come close to what Cat has to offer. She continued to doubt Spade’s feelings for her to the point where it got slightly irritating and somewhat frustrating. I do have to say that her final decision at the end to change plans on Spade, Cat, Bones and Ian and go off on her own to face Raum while the others were still fighting the battle was a huge letdown when it came to her decisioning. But overall, if it wasn’t for Spade carrying this book with his signature lines, bold moves and intense emotions, it would have fallen completely flat.
Overall, I was entertained, and I enjoyed the extra Spade scenes this book had to offer, but Night Huntress will continue to be my preferred storyline.
There were a few elements I struggled with in this book. I found Denise nowhere near as strong as Cat in character. Her insecurities and decisions proved to me that she doesn’t come close to what Cat has to offer. She continued to doubt Spade’s feelings for her to the point where it got slightly irritating and somewhat frustrating. I do have to say that her final decision at the end to change plans on Spade, Cat, Bones and Ian and go off on her own to face Raum while the others were still fighting the battle was a huge letdown when it came to her decisioning. But overall, if it wasn’t for Spade carrying this book with his signature lines, bold moves and intense emotions, it would have fallen completely flat.
Overall, I was entertained, and I enjoyed the extra Spade scenes this book had to offer, but Night Huntress will continue to be my preferred storyline.
February 12, 2010
I wrote out a whole review and then my computer froze. Gah!
Anyway, 4.5 stars for this one. This is the first "off-shoot" book of Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress series and it features Spade and Denise, two characters introduced in earlier books of the series.
I've been a Spade fangirl since the moment of his introduction in the first book of the series, Halfway to the Grave. *pauses review to high five Rane* He's a wonderful character, incredibly loyal and sexily charming. Chivalrous as only a two century old earl can be. He's truly lovely.
Denise was introduced in the second book. She had become Cat's good friend after the latter rescued her from a vampire attack. Denise met and married a man named Randy who was, coincidentally, Bones' friend. It shouldn't come as a spoiler to anyone by this point that Randy didn't make it through all four Night Huntress books. It was a heartwrenching event and it's been given it's due respect in this book, which is important.
I love that Denise doesn't come to see all Randy's flaws the way a lot of stories handle the new HEA. She doesn't entertain delusions of a life of solitude because she'll never love again, either. She's practical. Grieving heavily, but getting on with her life. She wasn't ready to fall in love yet, but that doesn't mean she'd shut off the possibility for the future. But she definitely doesn't want to spend any time with, much less fall in love with, a member of the undead.
Then she needs Spade's help to save her family from a demon. And the discomfort begins! She's been staying away from all things supernatural for months, even letting her friendship with Cat lapse, and Spade's vowed never to become seriously involved with a human again. Oh, silly characters.
They are both intensely attracted to each other and the sparks really fly with them. When they finally consummate, it's a good idea to have a fan handy. They're very good together.
I wasn't sure I was going to like Denise, but I did. My love of Spade was never in doubt. I really like them together and I look forward to seeing them in future books.
SPOILER********
*
*
*
I'm a little ambivalent about the ending. Denise is demon branded forever? I understand that, but I'm just not all that happy about it. And is Nathaniel reformed enough to keep his fool mouth shut about the Red Dragon blood she's pumping. I assume there's been a mind meld, a compulsion to never tell that secret, but they can't trust that every other person who knew is dead. I feel like Denise is going to go through eternity with a target on her.
I would like to see her use her shape-shifting abilities in battle in the future. That would go a long way toward making me accept this arrested transformation.
*
*
*
END SPOILER**********
I think Frost is becoming a better writer with each book. Not that she was a slouch to begin with, but her last two books have been very emotionally engaging for me. I've really enjoyed them. Mencheres is next in the Summer and I can't wait. For those who haven't tried Jeaniene Frost, I feel pretty confident recommending her books.
(edited for clarity)
Anyway, 4.5 stars for this one. This is the first "off-shoot" book of Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress series and it features Spade and Denise, two characters introduced in earlier books of the series.
I've been a Spade fangirl since the moment of his introduction in the first book of the series, Halfway to the Grave. *pauses review to high five Rane* He's a wonderful character, incredibly loyal and sexily charming. Chivalrous as only a two century old earl can be. He's truly lovely.
Denise was introduced in the second book. She had become Cat's good friend after the latter rescued her from a vampire attack. Denise met and married a man named Randy who was, coincidentally, Bones' friend. It shouldn't come as a spoiler to anyone by this point that Randy didn't make it through all four Night Huntress books. It was a heartwrenching event and it's been given it's due respect in this book, which is important.
I love that Denise doesn't come to see all Randy's flaws the way a lot of stories handle the new HEA. She doesn't entertain delusions of a life of solitude because she'll never love again, either. She's practical. Grieving heavily, but getting on with her life. She wasn't ready to fall in love yet, but that doesn't mean she'd shut off the possibility for the future. But she definitely doesn't want to spend any time with, much less fall in love with, a member of the undead.
Then she needs Spade's help to save her family from a demon. And the discomfort begins! She's been staying away from all things supernatural for months, even letting her friendship with Cat lapse, and Spade's vowed never to become seriously involved with a human again. Oh, silly characters.
They are both intensely attracted to each other and the sparks really fly with them. When they finally consummate, it's a good idea to have a fan handy. They're very good together.
I wasn't sure I was going to like Denise, but I did. My love of Spade was never in doubt. I really like them together and I look forward to seeing them in future books.
SPOILER********
*
*
*
I'm a little ambivalent about the ending. Denise is demon branded forever? I understand that, but I'm just not all that happy about it. And is Nathaniel reformed enough to keep his fool mouth shut about the Red Dragon blood she's pumping. I assume there's been a mind meld, a compulsion to never tell that secret, but they can't trust that every other person who knew is dead. I feel like Denise is going to go through eternity with a target on her.
I would like to see her use her shape-shifting abilities in battle in the future. That would go a long way toward making me accept this arrested transformation.
*
*
*
END SPOILER**********
I think Frost is becoming a better writer with each book. Not that she was a slouch to begin with, but her last two books have been very emotionally engaging for me. I've really enjoyed them. Mencheres is next in the Summer and I can't wait. For those who haven't tried Jeaniene Frost, I feel pretty confident recommending her books.
(edited for clarity)
January 12, 2019
Buddy read with the Wednesday UF Group of BB&B
First Drop of Crimson is a spin-off from the Night Huntress series and it can't be read as a standalone. I mean, sure you could, but you'll have a hard time figuring out what is going on. Also if you're reading the main series you can't simply skip this one as some of the events from this book impact the overall story.
I loved the plot of this book! The introduction of demons to this world made it even more fascinating. So it was plenty fun. We got to explore a different part of the vampire world and to see both Spade and Ian in different light.
Spade is an interesting character and I liked him a lot since the beginning. He has a very tragic backstory. And I felt so bad for him. So I was very happy when he hooked up with Denise in this book. What I didn't like was that there was more than a bit of relationship drama. I hate, hate, hate the Big Misunderstanding trope! But compared to Destined for an Early Grave it was drama-free!
I loved Denise and how she was portrayed. What happened to her in the previous books was extreme. And I liked that she didn't just shrugged it off! She was suffering from PTSD for most of the book and she had to fight with herself to be around Spade. She had a lot of baggage surrounding her actions around Randy's death and seeing how much this whole mess with the demon made her change and realize her own strength was quite inspiring. Denise deserved a happy ending and the honor and duty oriented Spade was just the male for her.
First Drop of Crimson is a spin-off from the Night Huntress series and it can't be read as a standalone. I mean, sure you could, but you'll have a hard time figuring out what is going on. Also if you're reading the main series you can't simply skip this one as some of the events from this book impact the overall story.
I loved the plot of this book! The introduction of demons to this world made it even more fascinating. So it was plenty fun. We got to explore a different part of the vampire world and to see both Spade and Ian in different light.
Spade is an interesting character and I liked him a lot since the beginning. He has a very tragic backstory. And I felt so bad for him. So I was very happy when he hooked up with Denise in this book. What I didn't like was that there was more than a bit of relationship drama. I hate, hate, hate the Big Misunderstanding trope! But compared to Destined for an Early Grave it was drama-free!
I loved Denise and how she was portrayed. What happened to her in the previous books was extreme. And I liked that she didn't just shrugged it off! She was suffering from PTSD for most of the book and she had to fight with herself to be around Spade. She had a lot of baggage surrounding her actions around Randy's death and seeing how much this whole mess with the demon made her change and realize her own strength was quite inspiring. Denise deserved a happy ending and the honor and duty oriented Spade was just the male for her.
Shelved as 'tbr-later'
December 18, 201518 December 2015: $1.99 on Kindle
9 June 2015: $1.99 on Kindle
5 May 2014: $3.99 on Kindle - I'm 90% positive this has been cheaper at some point.
9 June 2015: $1.99 on Kindle
5 May 2014: $3.99 on Kindle - I'm 90% positive this has been cheaper at some point.
May 28, 2017
It was really bad. I should have so judged the book by its cover. Much as i loved the previous books in this series, this was just absurd.
Still I will continue with the series...
Still I will continue with the series...
March 3, 2023
A great read, maybe quite not up there with Bones and Cat (let’s face it that was always going to be a tall order) but it was well written with an easy style and explosive storyline. I definitely preferred the second half of this to the first it just had a much faster pace. If the beginning had been on a par with that then I’d have probably rated this higher I just found that bit slightly slower.
This is Cat’s bestie Denise and Bone’s bestie Spade's story. Both have prior tragic loves that have shaped them into making certain choices but when Denise suddenly finds herself in danger from a vengeful demon it’s Spade she ends up turning to for assistance.
Both these two have hang-ups acting as a detriment to their future as a couple. Denise after the death of her husband has distanced herself from everything supernatural even Cat whilst Spade doesn’t do humans (other than the obvious) after his previous human love perished leaving him heartbroken. But the connection that has always been there finally bares fruit and with their close proximity, these two are soon in way over their heads.
This one definitely reads more paranormal romance than its sister series and though I wasn’t that excited initially regarding this book it turned out to be much better than anticipated and I enjoyed myself. I like both Spade and Denise they had some definite chemistry together and bonus we get Bones and Cat making an appearance in the latter half of this. An excellent addition to a series that is becoming a real addiction for me.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,519 reviews