Book Review-Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks

Title: Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire 

Author: Kerrelyn Sparks 

Series: Love At Stake 

Format: E Book

Publisher: Avon 

Release Date: December 30 2014 

Pages: 384 Pages

Acquired: Edelweiss

Genre: Vampire Romance 

ISBN: 978-0-06-210777-0

Where To Find:  
Author’s Website|B&N|Amazon|Goodreads|LibraryThing

Synopsis (Goodreads)

New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks delivers the exciting conclusion in the Love at Stake series, where a Marine-turned-vampire finds love with the shifter princess forbidden to him…

Russell wakes from a coma to find he’s become a vampire. Now he has a thirst for revenge. Determined to hunt down the master vampire who turned him, he’s used to working alone . . . until he meets Jia. She is after the same vampire for murdering her parents and insists she can help Russell on this mission. Reluctantly, he agrees, and sets up some ground rules:

Rule #1: Their partnership is strictly business. If he holds her a little too close . . . if she looks at him with those exotic eyes . . . well, that has to stop.

Rule #2: He’s in charge. Jia isn’t used to taking orders and questions every move he makes. So he stops her the only way he knows how.

Rule #3: Don’t fall in love. But the kiss that was supposed to quiet her awakens something else in him . . . something forbidden. Because Jia is engaged. To someone else.

My Review

I Received a ARC copy in exchange for a honest review, thanks to Edelweiss and Avon Books.

Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire is the final installment in the Love At Stake Series. Its a bittersweet feeling. Although it came to no surprise to me. All the major players in the series have had their own story, and this story was so much above my expectations. The last book left off with a bit of a cliffhanger. The hunt for Han and the demon he works for is on going, but Russell, has a personal vendetta against him. Russell was turned into a vampire against his will, and was put in a coma for over thirty years, where he lost everything, his parents, his wife and his daughter and the life he knew. All that drives him is to get revenge and kill the one that ruined his life. When he finally after two years finds Han, and is about to kill him, a woman, a were tiger princess, has her own mission to kill Han and ruins all of his intentions. At first he is furious, but then he reluctantly agrees to work with Jia. Jia lost her family to Han and he mutilated her family, and all she feels is revenge until she meets Russell. Their purpose is one in the same, but also a vibrant desire erupts between them, and even though Pia is engaged and has other duties has princess of her people, she can’t deny her feelings for Russell.

This is the 16th installment in the series, and it really tied up all loose ends from the previous book. There is even a small sub plot for Rijav, but its small, and I would have loved seeing his story and maybe someday Sparks will do it. In her authors note, she mentioned that for now she is putting this series on hold, and may come back to it eventually, but for now she wants to work on other writing projects—very intriguing. Even though I am quite sad that this series has ended, since I have loved every book, and this story was quite a adventure and had some exciting moments that really kept me fully engaged.

The characters were sensational, and they really were easy to connect with and you can’t help but fall for them. Pia was a great heroine, I really liked her inside and out. Pia has had to learn to be a fighter, she is passionate and strong, and I felt like her character was so carefree and passionate. Russell, is a good hero, not my favorite of the series, but he is a survivor, and you really seem him grow in this story. Where he goes from a recluse, a loner, to a man that learns the value of love and family. We see these two learn quite a few things together, and what conflict they face and really brings them close together. There is some heated moments between these two, not very heavy but not too light…it is balanced with the other aspects of the plot, so you see how it all fits together and the flow was quite smoother than you expect. I was really fond of this one, it had many elements that make up a great romance and I enjoyed the variety of paranormal aspects that combine into a stellar read!!

Overall a paranormal romance with a mixture of a vampire, tiger shifters, and angels and demons mixed in with a spicy romance that will leave you feeling satisfied for days!! A BOOK TO WATCH FOR!!

My Rating

5 Blossoms

Heat Level

Warm

Series Order

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire (1)

Vamps and the City (2)

Be Still My Vampire Heart (3)

The Undead Next Door (4)

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire (5)

Secret Life Of A Vampire (6)

 Forbidden Nights With A Vampire (7)

The Vampire and the Virgin (8)

Eat Prey Love (9)

Vampire Mine (10)

Sexiest Vampire Alive (11)

Wanted: Undead or Alive (12)

Wild About You (13)

The Vampire With A Dragon Tattoo (14)

How To Seduce A Vampire (15)

Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire (16)

ARC Book Review-How To Seduce A Vampire (Without Really Trying)

How To Seduce A Vampire(Without Really Trying)
Love At Stake (15)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
E Book
Published April 29 2014
384 Pages
Vampire Romance
ISBN: 9780062107763
Author Website

Synopsis
From New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks comes the next adventure in the Love at Stake series, featuring a Master vampire and his love affair with a woman of many secrets . . .

Vampire Zoltan Czakvar is on the hunt for the truth about his father’s death. He’s been searching for a very long time—since 1241, in fact. And he is not about to give up, even when he’s attacked by a woman with striking blue eyes and a hell of a right hook!

Neona is also on the hunt. She’s looking for a mate, and she thinks muscled Zoltan will work just fine. After all, men are good for only one thing. Soon, though, she realizes there’s more to this handsome vampire than just sexual prowess. But she’s keeping a secret from Zoltan, something so big that it will rock the vampire world.

Can their newfound love survive . . . even if their passion means the destruction of her world?

My Review

Zoltan is on the search for his father’s killer, and when a clue lands in his lap, a arrow head that matches the one that killed his father in the 1200’s. So he leaves his duties, and goes in search of the one who murdered his father. What he finds alters his life and his heart. Neona is a warrior princess, living in solitude with her other sisters and their queen, her mother. No men are allowed in their valley, or they are killed. Neona and her sisters are hiding a secret, and protecting it. Some of their women have died, and after losing her twin sister, she aches for something to love, a child, a daughter. When they hear of a strange man entering their property, they go in search of him. Neona, plans on seducing him, and taking his ‘seed’, then will have to kill him. When she meets Zoltan, she sees a man she could eventually love, but that is forbidden, and she will have to settle with having his child, hoping for a daughter. However Zoltan is stubborn in his courtship of her, and before she knows it, she is breaking all the rules, just to have a few moments with the one man that makes her heart sing. But will Neona and Zoltan find their happily ever after?

How To Seduce A Vampire (Without Really Trying) is a fun and exciting story, and one of my favorites, read in only a couple of hours and I was tumbling over it with balls of laughs and a few tears. I have loved this series, and Kerrelyn Sparks is one of my favorite paranormal authors, and I have loved the way she has created this world of Vampires, shifters, demons and angels. I don’t know what I was really expecting with this installment, but WOWZERS!! I am impressed. You never know with how many books are in this series, if the next book will be a great addition or a disapppointment, and I am happy to say it wasn’t the later. I loved everything about this story.

First off, the heroine, she was impressive, I loved everything about her character. She is a warrior, and a fighter, and goes after what she wants, but we see that she has a vulnerability, and Sparks really balanced out her character well. I definitely was amused in the beginning when Zoltan and Neona meet, and she just wants his “seed” in like five minutes, definitely had me laughing from the moment these two meet. Zoltan, whew, I think I could build a forest fire with the heat he was giving off. Zoltan is passionate, and loves women, but I love the slow seduction of Neona. From the beginning, Zoltan is mesmerized by Neona, and doesn’t only want to bed her, but love her and show her the meaning of true love. He begins a courtship that is so sweet at times, and he is so stubborn about it, that Neona can’t help but say “yes”. I love seeing Neona turn ito a woman obeying orders from her queen, to standing up for herself and for what is right. She won my heart over and over.

There is quite a bit of conflict, that never seems to end, and I don’t want to spoil too much, so I wont reveal the secret that they are hiding, I will say that you are guaranteed to fall in love and not just with the main characters of the story, and it does leave with a bit of a cliffhanger, which I am hoping gets resolved in the next book. (Crossing my fingers here, and hope it comes out sooner rather than later). And there are quite a few suprises in here, especially toward the end, that totally shocked me, but in a very positive way. We do see some past characters involved in this one, and a few that are my favorites, and a beginning romance with a sub character, that I am guessing will be the next book. SO EXCITED!!

Overall I was blown away with this book. The characters, the plot, the story line, and the unique setting, it all combined into a blend of tender romance, sizzling desire, and never ending adventure!! MESMERIZING!!!

First Line 
When Zoltan Czakvar entered the armory of his Transylvanian castle, his gaze automatically shifted to the arrow that had killed his father.

Favorite Quote 
“The reason I refuse to leave”–he planted kisses along her cheek–” is that I want you. I want to be your mate and cherish you forever.”
“It’s not possible,” she whispered.
“We’ll make it possible.” He slid the flat edge of the knife over her crossover tunic and sliced through the ribbon that tied it shut at her breasts. 
“Don’t you feel it, Neona? I was meant to find you. To court you. To Love you.”
She shuddered. “Please…”
“And you were meant to be mine.”

My Grade 
5 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series 
How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire
Vamps and the City
Sugarplums and Scandal
A Very Vampy Christmas
Be Still My Vampire Heart
The Undead Next Door
All I Want For Christmas Is a Vampire
Secret Life Of A Vampire
Forbidden Nights With A Vampire
The Vampire And The Virgin
Eat Prey Love
Vampire Mine
Sexiest Vampire Alive
Wanted: Undead or Alive
Vampires Gone Wild
Wild About You

ARC Book Review-The Vampire With The Dragon Tattoo

The Vampire With The Dragon Tattoo
Love At Stake (14)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon Books
E Book
Published August 27 2013
384 Pages
Vampire Paranormal Romance
ISBN  978-0-06-210773-2
Authors Website

Synopsis
He’s Out of Control

Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he’s ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo.

Vampires? Vampires?! As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There’s even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal’s gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him—and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored?

Synopsis 

For any of you, who have yet to read from Kerrelyn Sparks, you are missing out on some genuine talent. Her focus is the paranormal, but she has written a few historical’s as well. Ever since I discovered her a couple years ago, I have been entranced by her stories. As far as vampire romances go, Sparks is one of my favorites to read from.  The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo, is the fourteenth installment, and what a ride it was to read.

In desperate need to bring a change in the battle between the good vampires and the “Malcontents”, they search for a scientist who specializes in genetics, and find just the right one, only they have to convince her to accept vampires for real and to help them. Dougal is shocked when first seeing Leah. She reminds him of a long lost love he has never forgotten. Having recently lost his hand in a battle against the malcontents, it has taken some time to adjust to a mechanical hand. Now all he wants is Leah in his arms and in his life. Leah can barely believe that vampires really do exist. They seem more of myths and legends than reality. But she can’t resist their plea for help or the intensity in Dougal’s eyes or his Scottish brogue that leaps fire in her veins. In the beginning all she wants is distance between herself and the handsome Scot, however he is more tenacious than a dog with a bone, and she can’t resist the temptation of sensation that is promised in his arms. All Dougal wants to do is protect Leah from harm, but when the tension with “Master Han” builds and they are forced to take extreme measures, he doesn’t know if their power united will be enough to stop the evil that could destroy them all.

I found that The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo, was a sensational read. I would bump this to my top favorites of the series. Sparks hasn’t lost her touch in any way, if anything, I felt like it has only gotten better. There was such creativity in this story, very original in the sense that it was a bit different and involved certain aspects that makes for a intense ride. I will warn you to have a box of tissues with you while reading this, since I couldn’t stop tearing up, especially toward the second half of the story. Very well written in the way of the emotional reactions it brings out in the reader. A Wild ride of adventure, sensuality and a paranormal flair that only adds a certain sense of intensity to the story, but still has the witty aspect to the story that will bring giggles and laughs. A TREASURE!!

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire
Vamps and the City
Sugarplums and Scandal
A Very Vampy Christmas
Be Still My Vampire Heart
The Undead Next Door
All I Want For Christmas Is a Vampire
Secret Life Of A Vampire
Forbidden Nights With A Vampire
The Vampire And The Virgin
Eat Prey Love
Vampire Mine
Sexiest Vampire Alive
Wanted: Undead or Alive
Vampires Gone Wild
Wild About You

Book Review-Wild About You

Wild About You
Love At Stake (13)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
E Book
384 Pages
Published Nov 27 2012
Paranormal Romance
ISBN 0062107712

Synopsis
Handsome Howard…
Hunky Howard…
Hot Howard…

It’s not every day that Elsa Bjornberg feels delicate, not when she hosts a home renovation show where she can effortlessly demolish a kitchen. But from the moment she meets Howard Barr, this bear of a man makes her feel like a woman. And the way he looks at her, as if she were a pot of honey he’d like to lick…

Howard is not like most men. For one thing, he’s a shapeshifter. And he always thought his celebrity crush would never amount to anything more than drooling at Elsa on TV. When his meddling vampire employer gets involved, the star is suddenly within his grasp—and within a hair of her life. For an ancient curse forbids their newfound love, and Howard is suddenly torn between his desire for her and his desire to keep her alive.

MY REVIEW
Summary 
When Howard leaves on vacation Shanna Draganesti finds out that sweet, loveable Howard Barr has a secret crush on Elsa Bjornberg, hostess to a home renovation tv show, she decides to put them together and hatches up a plan to help Howard out a little. When Elsa meets Howard for the first time she is astounded by the sparks that fly, but there is something about him that speaks Danger to her, because she is not all who most people think of her. Because her family has been cursed for generations, but there is something about Howard that makes her want to trust him, but doesn’t know if she does trust him…will it cost her life in doing so or would she be making the best decision. Elsa knows that if she wants Howard enough she is going to have to fight for him or lose him Forever…….

The Hero (Howard Barr)
Howard, was once banned from his were bear clan because of something that happened in his past. He has had to live a life of solitude and for most of his life he has had to hide who he was from others until he came to work for Angus at McKay Security and he could be who he was meant to and not be afraid of shifting. When the woman of his dreams shows up on his doorstep and the instant he touches her sparks fly and he knows he wants her in hife life…no matter what he has to do to prove to her the kind of man he truly is…

The Heroine (Elsa Bjornberg)
Elsa has always felt awkward around others because of her height, but she never thought in her wildest dreams that her next project would lead her to the man of her dreams, Howard Barr, who is just as tempting as he looks. Even more than that he makes her feel beautiful and feminine, something she has not really ever felt, and even more than that he makes her feel cherished. When she finds herself falling in love with the gentle giant, she knows she will have to make a choice, a choice that could mean her destruction or one that could save her and lead her to happiness in his arms….

My Thoughts 
Wild About You is the most recent addition to the Love At Stake Series and I am so grateful to Avon Publishing and Edelweiss that I was able to get a copy of it. Especially since Kerrelyn Sparks is one of my favorite authors….and I just loved Howard’s story….it was just right!!Wild About You is a wonderful love story that takes two people that have lived different lives, but upon meeting each other certain truths about themselves and their own history will come to light….I think I was always rooting for Howard, he has been a secret favorite of mine since seeing him in recent books in the series. So it was a delight to read his story, and I just loved how protective he was of Elsa and was willing to do anything to protect her and keep her in his life, and I just almost cried when I saw how gently and caring he treated Elsa….definitely a heartwarming love story that will seep its way into your heart….a story filled with action, some mystery, passionate and tender lovemaking, and a love story that will sing to you!!!! A Must Read!!!!

My Grade On This Story 
5 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series
How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire
Vamps and the City
Sugarplums and Scandal
A Very Vampy Christmas
Be Still My Vampire Heart
The Undead Next Door
All I Want For Christmas Is a Vampire
Secret Life Of A Vampire
Forbidden Nights With A Vampire
The Vampire And The Virgin
Eat Prey Love
Vampire Mine
Sexiest Vampire Alive
Wanted: Undead or Alive
Vampires Gone Wild

ARC Book Review-Wanted Undead or Alive

Wanted: Undead or Alive
Love At Stake (12)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon Romance
ARC E Book
Published March 2012
374 Pages
Vampire Romance
ISBN 9780061958069

Synopsis
He’s a vampire from the big city . . .

Phineas McKinney thought New York City was tough, until he was attacked by Malcontents—evil vampires who consider mortals to be snacks. Saved by the good vampires, Phin swore to devote his now undead life to stopping the Malcontents. He’s got his job cut out for him when word comes that their enemy may be hiding in Wyoming. What does a city boy like him know about horses and campfires? Good thing he’s got Brynley Jones with him . . . if only she didn’t hate every vampire on earth.

She’s a werewolf princess . . .

Bryn believes vampires are seductive and charming, and that makes them dangerous. So she’s more than a little annoyed about teaming up with Phin, even if he is the only bloodsucker able to make her inner wolf purr. But as they hunt down the new leader of the Malcontents, danger threatens . . . and Phineas and Brynley discover a passion that will rock the foundation of their supernatural world.

MY REVIEW
Summary:
 Phineas, ever since he was turned against his will by the Malcontents has devoted himself to protecting the innocent and destroying those that desire to destroy everything they have built. After a failed run of trying to capture the queen of the malcontents, he finds out that she is located in Wyoming, where the nest of werewolves are, and he needs a guide or risk detection by the werewolves. So his guide happens to be the one woman he has had a crush on ever sine he met her, Brinley Jones, who escaped her father and ended up teaching young boys that were kicked out by the head pack leader her father. Now when Brinley and Phineas are thrown together, there is a chemistry that sparks up between them that leads to fireworks, but there is one problem….how can a werewolf and a vampire make it work? Phineas loves Brinley and will do whatever it takes to keep her in his arms…even if that means confronting her father, which may start a war.

The Hero (Phineas McKinney)
Phineas, to save his family from debt got involved with drugs, and then was captured by the malcontents and turned a vampire but then was saved by the good vampires and ever since has been trying to make up for his past mistakes. Phineas, however wants one thing that he wonders if he will ever find…a true connection, a love match that all of his friends have been able to find apart from him even though he is the ‘love doctor’ doesn’t guarantee love for him. Until he meets up with Brinley, a woman he has obsessed over for years, he knows he will never be the same…

The Heroine (Brinley Jones)
Brin, is a werewolf and is the daughter of the head clan leader, and when her father was going to force her to marry someone she knew would just cast her aside, she  abandoned her pack and her family and decided to make a life for herself. She is now teaching the ‘lost boys’ who were rejected from the pack so that they would have a place to go to …a refuge. When Phineas comes to her for help, she agrees, even if he is a bloodsucker, but he is the only man that makes both the human and the wolf part of her purr instantly, and she knows that he is the one that can make her heart pound and her blood sing…

My Thoughts 
 Wanted Undead or Alive is the most recent book by Kerrelyn Sparks. Sparks is probably one of my favorite authors to read when it comes to vampire romances. And I have to say ever since Phineas came onto the scene, I have been looking forward to his story, so I was way excited to get a chance to read and boy did I just love it. I must have read in a few hours, I was so into the story I couldn’t get away, it just drew me like a bee to honey. One of the aspects that I really love was the conflict that is in the plot here, this story is a bit of a forbidden love type. Because of Brin’s connection to the werewolves it is dangerous for her to pursue any sort of relationship with anyone her father would dissaprrove of because more than likely something dire would happen to him. But no matter how much Brinley tries to protect herself, she finds herself falling in love with him anyway. The only problem I had was the cover, its not very observant according to characteristics in the book. Since the hero is black not caucasian, but its still a hot cover! Overall Wanted Undead or Alive is probably one of my favorite books of the series so far. Definitely full of everything that makes for an Amazing read! Full of romance and passion, strong story plot, witty characters and enough excitement and danger to satisfy any’s reader taste. A Winner!!!!

My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms

Book Review-Sexiest Vampire Alive

Sexiest Vampire Alive
Love At Stake (11)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Paperback
Avon
Published Oct 2011
370 Pages
Paranormal Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-195805-2

Synopsis 

The secret is out . . . Vampires do exist!
When a video reveals to the world that vampires live among us, it’s up to “young” vamp Gregori Holstein, VP of Marketing, to persuade the U.S. government to declare the video a hoax. But first the president wants a favor, one that requires Gregori to spend forty-eight hours in very close contact with the First Daughter.
Abby Tucker would rather spend her nights in a lab than attend her father’s state dinners. She’s dedicated her life to finding a cure that will save her dying mother and needs only two more ingredients. To find them, she’ll have to venture into the most dangerous region of the world—with a vampire. Her Armani-clad escort may be Undead, but he still makes her heart race. And the greatest danger won’t be the predatory hordes lying in wait for them; it will be her undying desire for the Sexiest Vampire Alive.

MY REVIEW
Summary:
Gregori, VP of Marketing, and the most modern of all the vampires and most trusted, is the one chosen to go the President of the United States and convince him how harmless his people are and that they need them, but in return he wants Gregori to go on a very special mission with his daughter that could save his wife’s life. Abby, is the only daughter of the president that has managed to remain unseen and hidden, a chemist and a scientist, she has been looking for a way to save her dying mother…and she thinks that there is a certain plant in China that could save her mothers life…but she would need a way to get in and out undetected. When all is revealed to her about Gregori, and they embark, they share a unrelenting passion for each other, and find a abiding love that will get them through thick and thin…and even the greatest danger that poses to her wont even compare with the dangerous desire she feels for Gregori “sexiest vampire alive”

The Hero (Gregori Holstein)
Gregori, having been one of the more newer vampires, being turned only to save his life at his mothers insistence, has learned to love his life, but has a desire to prove that he isn’t as ‘young’ as the others seem to view him. Wanting to prove them wrong, he plans on nothing going wrong on this mission the President has sent him on…only he never planned on falling hard and fast for his daughter. Even knowing he doesn’t have much of a chance with her, he desires a lifetime with her…because first time in his life he has found someone he would consider spending a eternity with…

The Heroine (Abby Tucker)
Having been the daughter of a man who has always held his political career as upper importance, she has never wanted a part of it, so she has remained hidden. Abby has always felt that wanting a more private life and being more reserved, compared to her family she is a failure to those that she loves the most. When she meets the breathtakingly handsome vampire , her escort and the man she starts to love with a devotion that startles and amazes her.

My Thoughts 
The Sexiest Vampire Alive is the most current release in the Love At Stake series by one of my favorite paranormal authors. Ever since I have fallen in love with the first book I read from this author, I have just lusted after each of her novels…and this one is no different. It would probably be considered one of my favorites of the series so far….I just loved reading Gregori’s story, after seeing what a charismatic devil he can be in the other books in the series…you see a deeper side to him, one that you just will fall for. The plot was exciting and thrilling and full of twists and curves that will delight you…but at the same moment surprise you when you least expect it to. The characters were a pleasure to delve into….very likeable and entertaining….so if you like Kerrelyn Sparks and haven’t read this one yet…get to the store, buy it, and read it ASAP!!! For you will fall in love again!!


My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms


Other Books In The Series 

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire 

Vamps and the City

A Very Vampy Christmas

Be Still My Vampire Heart

The Vampire Next Door

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire

Secret Life of a Vampire

Forbidden Nights With A Vampire

The Vampire and the Virgin   

Eat Prey Love 
Vampire Mine

Book Review-Vampire Mine

Vampire Mine
Love At Stake (10)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
Paperback
369 Pages
Published April 2011
Vampire Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-195804-5

Synopsis

Nothing on earth can make this vampire fall in love . . .
After 499 years of existence, Connor Buchanan has arrived at an inescapable conclusion: he is a cold-hearted SOB. He’s been watching his friends—those poor romantic fools—plummet off the cliff into love like a dazed herd of sheep. But not Connor. He knows that love leads to nothing but heartache.
Until Marielle . . .
She is an angel cast down from heaven for disobedience. Trapped in mortal form, she finds a protector in Connor, a Scottish vampire haunted by a dark past. Marielle hopes to heal his broken heart and earn her way back home, but suddenly she has these . . . feelings. This strange yet pleasant physical yearning—for a vampire! Is this the work of a demon luring her into hell, or has this angel found heavenly bliss?

  
MY REVIEW 


Summary:
Connor Buchanan has lived for almost 500 years, and believes that his friends are all fools to have fallen in love like they have, because Connor has only known pain when it comes to loving someone. Then desperate to kill their enemy, he comes across someone that would change his life and his heart, Marielle. Marielle is a angel that has been cast down from heaven, after disobeying trying to only doing the right thing, now without her wings or all that is known to her, she feels lost and confused, but one man has protected her…Connor. Marielle knows inside his heart and the pain he feels and trying to help heal him, so ends up feeling yearning for him and love…and wonders what she would sacrifice to keep him in her life…even if that means giving up returning home.


The Hero (Connor Buchanan)
Connor, has lived 499 years, and for him it has only been existing, he has become bitter after suffering heartache in his past and the mistakes that he has made. Connor knows better than falling in love, because out of personal experience he has only felt grief and pain and has no desire to go searching for it again. But when he protects an angel, even at the cost of losing his friendship with his closest friends, he knows that he is in deep trouble, for she touches him where no one has been able to reach.


The Heroine (Marielle)
Marielle, has lived for thousands of years, as an angel, even though recently she has been a angel of death, she loved being a angel of healing, but now she has been cast out of heaven, and is now mortal, and when she is rescued by Connor, who protects her and tries to help her get back into heaven once more, she starts to fall in love with him, and doesn’t know if she could live without him…


My Thoughts 
Vampire Mine is the tenth installment in the Love At Stake Series by Kerrelyn Sparks. Vampire Mine was a pure delight, and had me thirsting for more after each page. Ever since I started reading this series, I have looked forward to when Connor would make his downfall to love, and Kerrelyn Sparks didn’t disappoint….I just fell in love with Marielle, she had such a innocence about her, very curious about everything (which was hilarious at times) that you couldn’t help but like her. Connor is very rough around the edges, but in this story we see a different side of him, a side that Marielle brings out in him. Vampire Mine was such a endearing read, and one of my favorite romances to read. The story was filled with adventure, witty interaction, passion and a tender love story that will leave you breathless. Definitely a jewel you don’t want to miss out on. I Loved it!!


My Favorite Quote 
“What did ye talk about with the ladies?”
“Lots of things,” she replied ” The Three step rule, oral sex-“
“Holy Christ Almighty” He pressed a hand to his brow. “They were supposed to teach you how to shampoo yer hair, no’ give you instructions on oral sex!”


My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms


Other Books In The Series 

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire

Vamps and the City

A Very Vampy Christmas

Be Still My Vampire Heart

The Vampire Next Door

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire

Secret Life of a Vampire

Forbidden Nights With A Vampire

The Vampire and the Virgin   

Eat Prey Love 

Book Review-Eat Prey Love

Eat Prey Love
Love At Stake (9)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
373 Pages
Published Oct 2010
Paperback
Vampire/Shifter Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-195803-8

Wanted: Bride. Must love children. Mortals need not apply.

Carlos Panterra is looking for a mate, a woman who will love and care for the young orphans he’s recently taken under his wing (or paw, as the case may be). When the shape shifter spies the beautiful Caitlyn, it’s like sunshine amidst the darkness. At last, he’s found the perfect woman, except . . .

Caitlyn Whelan is mortal. Worse, her father is the head of a CIA agency bent on hunting the undead. Still, Caitlyn knows that Carlos is the man for her, shape shifter or not. So she jumps at the chance when her sister offers her a job to work with him, determined to show Carlos their attraction is more than just animal magnetism. But danger lurks in the night, and their unleashed, untamed passion might just get them both killed . . .

Summary:
 Caitlyn Whelan, is the daughter of the head of the CIA agency bent on destroying the undead and has kept her from her sister, Shanna. Caityln, decides to accept the invite to her nephews birthday( a nephew she just found out existed) and seeing her sister for the first time since their childhood. The reunion with her sister was bittersweet, but during this party, she meets Carlos Panterra who draws her unlike any other, and starts to realize that this is the man for her. Caitlyn knows that it won’t be easy, having Carlos but knows he is well worth the effort. Carlos, a shapeshifter, a were panther, is determined to save his kind, and knows he must mate with a were panther, but must go about to finding one, and despite the magnetism between himself and Caitlyn he knows he must not partake of the forbidden fruit, and do what is best for his kind. Because even though there is one way for her to become like him, more than likely the turning would kill her, and he wouldn’t want to harm a hair on her head. But his feelings for Caityln have only increased, and wonders if he could bear to let her go?

The Hero (Carlos Panterra)
Carlos, is one of the few survivors of his village of were panthers, and is searching for more of his people. Carlos works for Angus and his Security Investigation Firm, but on his off time is searching the jungles for his people. Carlos has many responsibilities but knows that he must find a mate one that isn’t mortal. But when he see’s Caitlyn time stops for him, and he only sees her in that moment, and the only thing that is stopping him from claiming her as his own, is her safety and wellfare, because with him he knows she could die and will everything he can to make sure that doesn’t happen.

The Heroine (Caitlyn Whelan)
Caityln, was lied to and deceived growing up, especially when it came to her sister. Until recently had no knowledge that her sister had married and had two children, and she knew the blame lay on her father. Caitlyn has special gifts of understanding any language, and speaking it within a few hours, and has lived all over the world. But her life changes drastically when she meets Carlos at her nephews birthday party, and every aspect of her life changes and is strongly attracted to Carlos and wants to show him that their connection is much more than passion…that their love is strong enough to weather anything that life may throw at them.

My Thoughts 
Eat Prey Love is the most recent release of the Love At Stake Series, and I have just loved Carlos and was captivated by this passionate story of where two people that love each other but circumstances prevent them from being together. Carlos, must separate himself from her even though it seems like she is thrown at him at every turn he makes to avoid her. But sometimes destiny gets in the way of best laid plans, and knows he must keep her safe at all costs, even from his and his animal instincts. Eat Prey Love is a powerful and passionate story about two people that are each other’s destiny, but its all about their discovery of a love that will fortify them when danger comes headlong at them. I just loved Eat Prey Love, and from the first page, I was drawn into this compelling story!!! A DELIGHTFUL READ!!!

My Favorite Quote 
He leaned forward, his amber eyes blazing into hers. “You have no idea how much I want you,” Her lips opened with a small gasp, and his mouth was suddenly there. His lips were softly moving against hers. He planned to lure her with tenderness. And it was working.

My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series 

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire 

Vamps and the City

A Very Vampy Christmas

Be Still My Vampire Heart

The Vampire Next Door

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire

Secret Life of a Vampire

Forbidden Nights With A Vampire

The Vampire and the Virgin 

Vampire Mine

Book Review-The Undead Next Door

The Undead Next Door
Love At Stake (4)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
369 Pages
Published Feb 2008
Vampire Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-111845-6

Synopsis 
Three signs that something is very different with your mew man:
1. He sleeps all day . . . which would be annoying except he’s so attentive at night.
2. He’s attacked by sword-wielding assailants, yet insists he can handle it on his own.
3. He never seems to age.
Heather Westfield has always lived a quiet life, but that all changes when she helps a very handsome, very mysterious stranger. There’s something not quite right about Jean-Luc, but still, she’s never been with a man so charming, so attractive . . . so wonderful. Now if only a murderous villain wasn’t after them, they might get their happily-ever-after. 

MY REVIEW 
 
Summary:
Heather Westfield, comes to the opening of Le Chique Escharpe, by one of the most famous fashion designer, who opens a shop in  Texas, in her hometown. Heather, divorced and a mother, can barely afford to pay her bills, let alone the expensive clothing she see’s surrounding her. Heather, with a friend, who models for Jean Luc Escharpe, accompanies her. Then she is caught by him sketching one of his designer dresses, and he is furious, but then through a turn of events he offers her a job in his studio, for her ideas have merit, something he never thought about before. When he shows her his designs in the back, they are attacked by his hated enemy, Lui, who has murdered his past two girlfriends, and now assumes that Heather is the third. So now Jean Luc must protect her, no matter how resistant she is to the idea. But as events occur, and he keeps on protecting her, he finds that he doesn’t want to lose her or her daughter, by this maniac, and will do everything in his power to protect them no matter the cost…

The Hero (Jean Luc Escharpe)
Jean Luc is saddened that he must go into exile for 25 years, because there are questions by the media wondering why he hasn’t aged. Fashion Design is one of his passions, and knows that there is a very good chance that he will lose all that he has worked hard for. He also finds himself intensely jealous of his friends that have found mortal women to love, but knows that could never happen to him, since he has yet to find the crazy vampire who is his enemy and murdered the past two women he has loved. Now he has focused his attention on a innocent women, and honor bound to protect her…but never expecting to fall in love.

The Heroine (Heather Westfield)
Heather Westfield, grew up with a mother that was obsessed with fear, and that obsession ended up with them both being killed. Now she is divorced to a man that was controlling, but she has a beautiful daughter, the only thing good and beautiful that came from that dreadful mistake. Heather teaches at the High School, but her dream is do to fashion design, especially for those that aren’t skinny pods of women who try to kill themselves getting into one size of dress, but more healthy and voluptuous of size. Now has met the world famous designer Jean Luc Esharpe who has offered her a job, which is her dream. But through meeting him, ends up being hunted by a crazy killer, and now must accept the protection of Jean Luc, who is the perfect man…but there is something about him…a secret that she is afraid will tear apart what they have built and a dangerous killer that could destroy their love.

My Thoughts 
The Undead Next Door is Jean Luc’s story from the Love At Stake series by Kerrelyn Sparks. From the first page, I was hooked and wasn’t let go until the very end. Of course all that have read this series, just have fallen in love with Jean Luc and his charisma. So it was great to be able to read his story. The Undead Next Door is a emotional yet intense story about two people from opposite worlds, one who is a vampire and has lived for centuries and has no hope in life other than his fashion design career. The other is a woman who has suffered from pain and grief and has had to live in fear, but now decides to start anew and battle with fear and win…these two are both courageous and witty, their interaction fun and sexy, and the passion between them heated and sensual….and a love so powerful that if they believe in it and in themselves…there is a happily ever after in their future. Such a charming and sexy story, and I had such fun throughout all of it, and many laughs throughout all of it…Definitely a Winner!!! Sparks has won me over again…..A WONDERFUL READ!!!


My Favorite Quote 
“What?” his eyebrows shot up. “There’s nothing wrong with that design.”
“Are you kidding?” She pulled away from his grasp “What is Echarpe thinking? The neckline plunges past the navel. The skirt slits up to North Dakota. No Woman in her right mind would wear that thing in public.”


My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms


Other Books In The Series 

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire

Vamps and the City

A Very Vampy Christmas

Be Still My Vampire Heart

The Vampire Next Door

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire

Secret Life of a Vampire

Forbidden Nights With A Vampire

The Vampire and the Virgin   

Eat Prey Love 

Book Review-Be Still My Vampire Heart

Be Still My Vampire Heart
Love At Stake (3)
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon
372 Pages
Published April 2007
Vampire Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-111844-9

Synopsis
If it was still beating. Angus MacKay has been undead for almost five hundred years and it’s not often something, or someone, surprises him. Until Emma Wallace. The sight of this luscious agent from the CIA’s elite Stake-Out team was enough to stop Angus in his tracks. But then he discovers that she’s a vampire slayer, intent on killing the “monsters” who killed her parents. And it’s Angus’s job to stop her.
The only good vampire is a dead vampire. It’s been Emma’s motto since she committed her life to the destruction of these things. Now Angus MacKay wants to convince her differently.
Sure, he’s a sexy Highland warrior who seems to have stepped off the cover of a romance novel, complete with brogue, kilt, and sword, but he’s also one of them. And it’s her job to kill him.
The war is on, but will it end in the destruction of one or both of them . . . or in total surrender to a passion for the ages?

MY BOOK REVIEW 
 
Summary:
Angus Mackay has been instructed to stop a mortal vampire slayer from killing the malcontents, to prevent a war from breaking out. Emma Wallace, an CIA agent and also part of the vampire stake out team, Emma has been out for revenge ever since she witnessed her parents murdered by vampires. The more vampires she the better it is for her, however she is thrown back to the core when she comes across the one vampire that stirs up her senses and makes her heart beat faster. But knowing her strong attraction the the Scottish vampire, she knows she must kill him. But his kisses awakens a passion that cannot be quenched and she wonders if she could ever truly kill him when she is starting to fall head over heels for him….

The Hero (Angus Mackay)
Angus has lived for over five hundred years, and has watched his past wife and children die, and his wife not want him because he was changed to save his life. Angus doesn’t believe he can find love and happiness like Roman has with Shanna. Angus is a Scot, wears a kilt, very protective over his Sporran (which isn’t a purse-or so he claims “Its a manly scottish tradition), he is a fierce warrior who takes a claymore everywhere with him,  and knows a beautiful woman when he sees one. So when he spots Emma, he is determined to protect her, hopefully before she tries to kill him.

The Heroine (Emma Wallace)
Emma is just as fierce as her ancestor, she is courageous and not afraid of vampires, and has been able to kill four. Emma, was heart-stricken when she lost her parents from vampires, and now has a career as a mortal slayer, and wants to kill as many as she possibly can. However she is taken aback when she comes across the stunningly handsome Scot, and has a hard time remembering he is someone she is suppose to be killing, instead she aches for his touch…so she starts to wonder if there is a difference between the vampires that killed her parents and those that she meets through Angus, and starts to believe that there are good vampires….but could she have a future with Angus?

My Thoughts 
I thought that I would do a review on this one, since its one of the earlier books that I read from Kerrelyn Sparks, but that was before I started this blog, so I thought it was about tiime that I did. I have always loved Angus, and reading his story even though the second time was just as exhilirating and had a dangerous yet witty appeal to it. This is the book where we first see (Dr Phang) come and join their fighting team, and boy does that character make me laugh. I loved the characters throughout all the story, both main and sub, Angus is a true Scot that was born 500 years previous, and Emma is a modern woman, so things are bound to be a adjustment between the two. As the passion between them grows, we all see a strong love develop between them, and learn all about faith and trust. This story was filled with danger, sharp wit, and a powerful love story, that will captivate every heart, and have you cheering for this couple!!! Definitely a romance you don’t want to miss out on!!

My Favorite Quote
“I told you mine was bigger.”
What typical male arrogance. “I was referring to your sword. Not your wee willie” 
“If ye’re going to insult my size, I’ll have to defend myself by offering ye proof.” His mouth twitched “Tis a matter of honor, and I’m a verra honorable man”

My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series 

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire

Vamps and the City

A Very Vampy Christmas

Be Still My Vampire Heart

The Vampire Next Door

All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire

Secret Life of a Vampire

Forbidden Nights With A Vampire

The Vampire and the Virgin   

Eat Prey Love