Tag Archives: JR Ward

The Thief (The Black Dagger Brotherhood #16) by J. R. Ward-Review and Giveaway

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THE THIEF (Black Dagger Brotherhood #16) by J.R. Ward-Review and Giveaway

THE THIEF
The Black Dagger Brotherhood #16
by J.R. Ward
Release Date: April 10, 2018
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, vampire, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 10, 2018

New enemies rise from the shadows in the next novel of the New York Times bestselling paranormal romance series the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Sola Morte, former cat burglar and safecracker, has given up her old life on the wrong side of the law. On the run from a drug lord’s family, she is lying low far from Caldwell, keeping her nose clean and her beloved grandmother safe. Her heart, though, is back up north, with the only man who has ever gotten through her defenses: Assail, son of Assail, who never meant to fall in love—and certainly not with a human woman. But they have no future, and not just because she doesn’t know he is a vampire, but because he is not about to stop dealing arms to the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Fate, however, has other plans for them. When Assail falls into a coma and lingers on the verge of death, his cousins seek out Sola and beg her to give him a reason to live. The last thing she wants is a return to her past, but how can she leave him to die?

As a lethal new enemy of the vampires shows its face, and the Brotherhood needs Assail back on his feet, Sola finds herself not only a target, but a mission-critical force in a war she doesn’t understand. And when Assail’s truth comes out, will she run from the horror . . . or follow her heart into the arms of the male who loves her more than life itself?

•••••••••

REVIEW: THE THIEF is the sixteenth full-length instalment in J.R. Ward’s contemporary, adult BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD paranormal, romance series focusing on an elite group of vampire warriors and their King. This is businessman, former drug dealer and vampire Assail, son of Assail, and human thief Marisol ‘Sola’ Carvalho’s story line. THE THIEF should not be read as a stand-alone; I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion, especially the last two to three instalments.

NOTE: If you have not read the last few instalments in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, there may be some spoilers in my review.

SOME BACKGROUND: One year earlier, Assail destroyed the men who attacked and brutalized the female he loved. Marisol (along with her grandmother) moved to Florida in order to escape the past, and her attraction to Assail, never knowing the extent of Assail’s addiction, his detox, his love or his deteriorating mental health.

Told from several third person points of view including Sola and Assail THE THIEF follows in the aftermath of Assail’s drug detox, and the subsequent psychosis leaving our hero a shell of his former self. Believing death was inevitable, Doc Jane and Assail’s cousins Evale and Ehric make final preparations including contacting the woman with whom Assail had fallen in love. Enter Marisol ‘Sola’ Carvalho, Assail’s mate, and the female who would jump start Assail on his road to recovery. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Assail and Sola, and the potential fall-out when Assail and Doc Jane reveal the truth about what he is, and the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Meanwhile, a new threat has risen in Caldwell, a threat with no corporeal body but a threat more deadly than anyone could have imagined. Throe, a former warrior with the Band of Bastards, seeks revenge against the King, in the hopes of ascending to the throne, revenge that comes from secrets of the past.

The ongoing struggles in Vishous and Jane’s relationship come to a head when Jane discovers V’s path towards infidelity. A distinct lack of communication between our couple, with the added hindrance and misfortune of an overworked physician, and the Brotherhood’s battle with a new enemy find Jane and Vishous on the verge of ‘consciously uncoupling’ in a not so friendly manner. Ward’s ongoing fascination and supposed dislike for V resurfaces with his immature attitude, child-like tantrums, and treatment of the female he claims to love. Forced time off has Jane refocusing on her relationship, her work, and the future with the male she loves.

The Black Dagger Brotherhood is a character driven series but in previous instalments Ward’s need to amass and gather all of the Brothers often detracts from the story line premise(s) but in the case of The Thief the author reigns in some of the unnecessary drama that would otherwise divert attention in too many directions. THE THIEF follows a number of paths that intersect at several junctures but unlike in previous episodes the collection of side stories is limited. A sister scorned by the disappearance and death of her beloved brothers seeks revenge as Detective Jose De La Cruz begins an investigation into the series of murders linking back to the recent appearance of ‘said scorned sister’. A last minute cameo appearance by Murhder sets the stage for book seventeen THE SAVIOR, as well as a hybrid vampire’s transition that is about to go down. The individual Black Dagger Brothers have limited page time with the exception of Rhage, and of course our friendly ethereal angel Lassiter, whose new role is confirmed as Vishous is about to lose the woman he loves.

THE THIEF is a story of addiction and recovery; heartbreak, communication and love; vengeance, betrayal and supernatural powers. J. R. Ward’s THE THIEF is an engaging and intoxicating look at vampires, the females they love, and the threats meant to destroy them all. The premise is dramatic and compelling; the romance is passionate and fated; the characters are spirited, sassy, energetic and intense.

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

The Reading Cafe and J.R. Ward’s publisher are offering a hard cover copy of THE THIEF to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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9. Giveaway runs from April 22-28, 2018

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Dearest Ivie (Black Dagger Brotherhood #15.5) by JR Ward-a review

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DEAREST IVIE (Black Dagger Brotherhood 15.5) by JR Ward-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date March 13, 2018

In an exclusive ebook novella set in the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, #1 New York Times bestselling author J. R. Ward tells the story of a fiery couple . . . doomed by an undeniable passion.

Features a special preview of J. R. Ward’s upcoming Black Dagger Brotherhood novel, The Thief!

The last place Ivie expects to be approached by a devastatingly handsome male is in a crowded, smoky cigar bar rarely frequented by vampires—yet here he stands. Silas is flirtatious, gallant, and, above all, mysterious. Ivie is anything but. A nurse at the healer’s clinic and the daughter of a biker, Ivie is accustomed to speaking her mind. So she does. Since aristocrats rarely pick up females of her class, Ivie asks Silas just what kind of game he thinks he’s playing.

Despite her guarded exterior, Ivie surrenders to the fierce desire she feels for Silas. And yet, just as their courtship is heating up, he reveals that it cannot last, for he is bound to return to the Old Country. Their bond only deepens as they make the most of their precious time together. But when she learns the truth, Ivie must find a saving grace—before all is lost.

••••••••••

REVIEW: DEAREST IVIE by JR Ward is a novella set in the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood focusing on aristocratic vampire Silas, and nurse Ivie, who works for Havers at his clinic.

Told from third person perspective (Ivie) DEAREST IVIE follows the building relationship between an old country vampire Silas, a member of the aristocrat, and Ivie, a young nurse struggling from pay cheque to pay cheque. When a recent job interview found our heroine unacceptable due to her age, Ivie and her best friend Rubes spend a night on the town where Ivie will meet her future, a future with an end date that Ivie knows nothing about. Enter Silas, a well-to-do vampire aristocrat whose attraction to Ivie is swift and powerful.

DEAREST IVIE is a quick read; an emotional but predictable story line about opposites attract that reveals some of the struggles and disparity between the have and the have nots. The interaction with the BDB is negligible except for the mention of the King. The secondary and supporting characters are familiar with the inclusion of Havers, Doc Jane and Ruhn. We are introduced to Silas’s majordomo Pritchard, Ivie’s father Hirah-a tattooed vampire biker, and of course Ivie’s bestie and fellow nurse Rubia aka Rubes.

JR Ward leaves a few open ended plot points including Silas’ hunt for his missing brother, as well as the potential for a story line for Ivie’s best friend Rubes. The premise is sweet, heart breaking and emotional; the romance is quick and intense; the characters are colorful and charismatic.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Blood Fury (Black Dagger Legacy #3) by JR Ward-Review and Giveaway

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BLOOD FURY (Black Dagger Legacy #3) by JR Ward-Review and Giveaway

Blood Fury Banner

BLOOD FURY
Black Dagger Legacy #3
by JR Ward
Release Date: January 9,2018
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

Blood Fury

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 9, 2018

A vampire aristocrat, Peyton is well aware of his duty to his bloodline: mate with an appropriate female of his class and carry on his family’s traditions. And he thought he’d found his perfect match—until she fell in love with someone else. Yet when his split-second decision in a battle with the enemy endangers the life of another trainee, Peyton has to face the idea that his future, and his heart, actually lie with another.

Novo, as a female in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program, feels like she has to prove herself to everybody—and she has no interest in being distracted by falling in love. But when Peyton proves to be so much more than a rich playboy, she is forced to confront the tragedy that has broken her soul and closed her off from love.

As the two grapple with Novo’s past and Peyton’s present, another couple must contend with an erotic connection that is unparalleled—and potentially scandalous.

Saxton, who has had his heart broken, discovers in himself a deep-seated attraction to Ruhn, a new member of the household. But will the other male explore the connection? Or will he close his mind and his heart to what could be true love . . . and cost Saxton everything?

•••••••••••

REVIEW: BLOOD FURY is the third instalment in JR Ward’s contemporary, adult BLACK DAGGER LEGACY paranormal, romance series, a spin off from Ward’s number one selling Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Once again, the author addresses two building relationships: BDB trainees Peyton and Novo, as well as Saxton, the King’s legal advisor, and Bitty’s uncle Ruhn. BLOOD FURY can be read as a stand alone but for backstory and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order especially the Black Dagger Legacy spin off.

NOTE: BLOOD FURY contains scenes of graphic violence, and M/M sexual situations.

Saxton is a male of worth; disowned by his aristocrat family for his sexual preferences Saxton had once considered leaving his current position when the man that he loved (Blay) was mated to another male. With the introduction of Ruhn, young Bitty’s uncle, Saxton discovered a second chance at love when the two were pushed together as Saxton began in investigation into a land dispute, and the threats from the human population, against an elderly female vampire. Ruhn, believing himself not worthy due to events in his past, struggles with many issues of low self-esteem, and his attraction to the King’s official advisor. What ensues is the building relationship between Saxton and Ruhn, and the potential fall out when Ruhn falls victim to the same humans threatening the elderly vampire.

Peyton watched as his best friend and the woman he loved (Paradise) fell in love with another male. Battling his inability to let go of his desire for another man’s mate, Peyton’s actions on the street threaten the life of another trainee. Enter Novo, the woman with whom Peyton would fall in love but a woman who struggles with memories from the past-memories that threaten to overwhelm with the approach of her sister’s mating.

BLOOD FURY follows two couples as they traverse a minefield of personal pain and private heartache, the constant reminders of unrequited love, and acceptance of the consequences of their choices and actions. All four of the story line characters battle ghosts from the past that continue to control much of the present. Ruhn’s history is painful and heartbreaking; Novo has suffered a loss she will never forget; Peyton’s family takes control of his future; and Saxton must purge his pain by letting go of something and someone he once loved.

Most of the Black Dagger Brothers make cameo appearances throughout the story as they, once again, must go into battle against the lessers and human threats to the vampire population. The mention of Assail on several occasions, as he continues to battle his own personal demons, prepares the reader for his upcoming story THE THIEF set to release in April 2018.

BLOOD FURY is a story of family, of loss, of acceptance and love. JR Ward gives Saxton his happily ever after-but -I struggled to ‘feel’ the palpable sexual energy between Saxton and Ruhn that many of her leading couples experience. What little emotion witnessed came at the possibility that Saxton may lose the man with whom he had fallen in love. The $ex scenes, though limited, were a little underwhelming.

Unlike many of the previous story lines in the BDB series I did not feel pulled in too many directions-the author divided our time between two paths that would converge at the ‘I dos’ of a very unhappy vampire. The premise was spirited and lively; the characters were tragic and energetic; the romances were provocative and intense but I was hoping for a little more heat and steam.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Blood Kiss
Blood Vow
Blood Fury

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Reading Cafe and J.R. Ward’s publisher are offering a hard cover copy of BLOOD FURY  to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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9. Giveaway runs from January 17-22, 2018

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The Chosen (The Black Dagger Brotherhood #15) by J.R. Ward-a review

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THE CHOSEN (The Black Dagger Brotherhood #15) by J.R.Ward-a review

The Chosen

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release date April 4, 2017

Xcor, leader of the Band of Bastards, convicted of treason against the Blind King, is facing a brutal interrogation and torturous death at the hands of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Yet after a life marked by cruelty and evil deeds, he accepts his soldier’s fate, his sole regret the loss of a sacred female who was never his: the Chosen Layla.

Layla alone knows the truth that will save Xcor’s life. But revealing his sacrifice and his hidden heritage will expose them both and destroy everything Layla holds dear—even her role of mother to her precious young. Torn between love and loyalty, she must summon the courage to stand up against the only family she has for the only man she will ever love. Yet even if Xcor is somehow granted a reprieve, he and Layla would have to confront a graver challenge: bridging the chasm that divides their worlds without paving the way for a future of even greater war, desolation, and death.

As a dangerous old enemy returns to Caldwell, and the identity of a new deity is revealed, nothing is certain or safe in the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, not even true love . . . or destinies that have long seemed set in stone.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE CHOSEN is the fifteenth installment in J.R.Ward’s contemporary, adult THE BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD paranormal, romance series focusing on an elite group of vampire warriors and their King. This is Xcor, leader of the Band of Bastards and an enemy of the King, and Layla, one of the Chosen whose duty it is to ‘feed’ and nurture the vampire warriors. THE CHOSEN can be read as a stand alone but for backstory and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order especially the last few installments.

NOTE: If you have not read the last couple of installments in the series my review of THE CHOSEN may contain some spoilers.

Told from several third person points of view, including Xcor’s memories of the past, THE CHOSEN, as per Ward’s style of writing, focuses on a number of relationships including the building but forbidden love between Xcor and Layla. Months earlier Xcor unsuccessfully attempted to assassinate Wrath, the King of the vampires, in the hopes of usurping the throne in the name of the Band of Bastards. With a price upon his head, Xcor finds himself targeted by the Black Dagger Brotherhood, and in short order, becomes both their patient and their prisoner until death (or execution) comes to call. The only thing that keeps him alive is the knowledge that the woman that calls to his heart, Layla, is near by but a woman who is off limits to a man like Xcor. What ensues is the breakdown of family, friendship and the BDB in the face of Layla’s revelations about her feelings and relationship with the man convicted of treason against the vampire King.

Once again, as per JR Ward’s writing style, there are several ongoing and developing stories:

LAYLA and XCOR: a forbidden relationship doomed by Xcor’s attempted assassination of the King, Layla and Xcor are drawn to one another without hope for a future-a future that could see Layla alone; ostracized by the Brotherhood; and fighting for custody of the children she loves .

LAYLA and QHUINN: With the revelation of Layla’s friendship and love for the man convicted of treason against the King, Qhuinn becomes a pr*ck of unmentionable and frightening behavior. Not only does Layla suffer at the hands of the man who sired her children, Rhamp and Lyric, but our heroine finds herself on the outside looking in when the BDB take action against her treasonous behavior.

QHUINN and BLAY: Following the revelations about Layla and Xcor, and the subsequent damage by Qhuinn’s ongoing behavior Blay finds himself the target of Qhuinn’s anger and pain so much so that Blay must walk away without looking back. The damage to their relationship comes at a cost; the scars may take years to heal.

VISHOUS and JANE: *sigh * V and Jane’s relationship struggles in the face of professional commitments and V’s ongoing need for suffering and pain. These two are but ships in the night, and any interaction results in little communication and one man’s introspective thoughts about his future and the woman he is supposed to love.

THROE: Once a friend and member of the Band of Bastards, Throe is determined to destroy the King of the Vampires, at any cost. Throe believes himself to be the next King, and ensures he will be victorious through a dark and demented form of magic.

LASSITER: Our beautiful fallen angel’s future has been revealed but he too struggles with the incoming demands and potential fall out of an approaching war.

TOHR and AUTUMN: Tohr and Autumn’s relationship continues to flounder in the face of Tohr’s inability to let go of the past. Two years since the murder of his beloved Wellsie and their unborn son, Tohr’s apparent lack of emotional depth for his mate is compounded by Autumn’s acceptance of her heartbreaking role in Tohr’s life. Autumn’s acquiescence of Tohr’s less than affectionate and compelling behavior is a self-fulfilling prophetic nod to the name she once caller herself-No One.

TREZ and THERESE (Selena): In the book THE SHADOWS Trez lost his mate and in the ensuing time is unable to move forward but our beloved Shadow prays to the deity that governs all things vampire and the supernatural begging for the return of his love-you had better want what you pray for.

ASSAIL: Poor Assail. The once powerful and elegant vampire finds himself a virtual prisoner; a patient in the BDB medical wing trying to detox from years of addiction and drug abuse. Assail and Sola’s story is next in THE THIEF.

Most of the previous couples and Brothers plays secondary and supporting roles if only by way of mention. Vishous, Tohr, Qhuinn and Blay struggle with their roles including Blay’s relationship with the man that he loves. Tohr and Qhuinn are determined to destroy Xcor in the face of their own treasonous acts; and Vishous goes in search of the person hoping to reveal the existence of demons and vampires.

THE CHOSEN is an emotional and heartbreaking story line. Xcor’s survival against the odds proves he is worthy of a second chance; his love for the Chosen is another challenging and courageous step towards a future lined with passion and danger. JR Ward’s THE CHOSEN creates an alliance between the Black Dagger Brotherhood and the Band of Bastards as war approaches with a familiar enemy in the fight for the throne and the crown.

Copy supplied for review/own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

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Blood Vow (Black Dagger Legacy #2) by J. R. Ward-a review

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BLOOD VOW (Black Dagger Legacy #2) by J. R. Ward-a review

Blood Vow

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2016

The Black Dagger Brotherhood continues to train the best of the best to join them in the deadly battle against the Lessening Society. Among the new recruits, Axe proves to be a cunning and vicious fighter—and also a loner isolated because of personal tragedy. When an aristocratic female needs a bodyguard, Axe takes the job, though he’s unprepared for the animal attraction that flares between him and the one he is sworn to protect.

•••••••••

REVIEW: BLOOD VOW is the second installment in J. R. Ward’s contemporary, adult BLACK DAGGER LEGACY paranormal, romance series-a spin off from Ward’s number one selling Black Dagger Brotherhood series. BLOOD VOW follows two separate paths that converge and overlap throughout the story. This is BDB recruit Axe, and aristocratic female/ psychology major Elise’s storyline, as well as Mary and Rhage’s struggle to keep their small family together.

NOTE: If you have NOT read THE BEAST there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from several third person points of view BLOOD VOW looks at family, friendship, brotherhood and love. Axe, a BDB warrior in training has lost everything in his life. Alone, unmated and angry at the world Axe finds himself in need of a quick influx of cash and when an opportunity presents itself our hero ‘volunteers’ to be the personal bodyguard to a member of the glymera. Enter Elise, an aristocratic female vampire, who is struggling for her independence from an over protective father following the recent murder of a female cousin. What ensues is the back and forth developing relationship between a woman of wealth, and a man who believes he is not worthy of love, and the Legacy trainees dangerous encounter with the Lessening Society.

Rhage and Mary couldn’t be happier now that their family has grown with the addition of Bitty- the young, pre-trans female vampire whose earlier years were marked with neglect and abuse. But Rhage and Mary always knew that Bitty was not completely without blood relations and their worst fears are realized when someone answers their social media search. What ensues is Rhage and Mary’s struggle to keep strong facing the possibility of losing the little girl everyone has grown to love.

BLOOD VOW is an emotional story line that divides its’ focus between the The Black Dagger Legacy, and the original BDB characters but I felt that Mary and Rhage’s story line would have been better suited to the original series as it continues the premise started in THE BEAST. Mary and Rhage are NOT part of the Legacy and yet their emotional battle to retain the child that they love takes up a good portion of BLOOD VOW.

All of the previous story line characters play secondary and supporting roles-Paradise, Peyton, Craeg, Novo and Boone, as well as the introduction of Ruhn who may or may not have caught the eye of the BDB’s legal counsel Saxton. Several (if not most) members of the Black Dagger Brotherhood have cameo roles throughout the story including our resident fallen angel Lassiter whose Christmas plans are left hanging in the balance.

BLOOD VOW is a remarkable story line; an engaging, creative and spirited look at one couple’s struggle to keep their family together; and one man’s desire to be accepted by the woman that he loves. The premise is dramatic and heartbreaking; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is passionate and intense. J. R. Ward’s BLOOD VOW is a revealing and intense story of family and love.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Blood Kiss
Blood Vow

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

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Blood Kiss (Black Dagger Legacy #1) by J.R. Ward-review

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BLOOD KISS (Black Dagger Legacy #1) by J.R. Ward-a review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 1, 2015

Paradise, blooded daughter of the king’s First Advisor, is ready to break free from the restrictive life of an aristocratic female. Her strategy? Join the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training center program and learn to fight for herself, think for herself…be herself. It’s a good plan, until everything goes wrong. The schooling is unfathomably difficult, the other recruits feel more like enemies than allies, and it’s very clear that the Brother in charge, Butch O’Neal, a.k.a. the Dhestroyer, is having serious problems in his own life.

And that’s before she falls in love with a fellow classmate. Craeg, a common civilian, is nothing her father would ever want for her, but everything she could ask for in a male. As an act of violence threatens to tear apart the entire program, and the erotic pull between them grows irresistible, Paradise is tested in ways she never anticipated—and left wondering whether she’s strong enough to claim her own power…on the field, and off.

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  BLOOD KISS is the first installment in J. R. Ward’s adult, contemporary Black Dagger Legacy paranormal, romance series- a spin off from her number one selling Black Dagger Brotherhood series. BLOOD KISS focuses Butch and Marissa (from the original BDB) and newcomers/warriors in training Paradise and Craeg. BLOOD KISS should not be read as a stand alone- too much back story and history is missing in regards to the BDB, the Lessers and the aristocratic vampires-all of which are addressed in the current storyline.

Told from several third person points of view BLOOD KISS follows the Black Dagger Brotherhood training program and the acceptance of seven new recruits (from a field of sixty) for the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Paradise, blooded daughter of the King’s First Advisor Abalone, is one of only two females who passed the initial testing phase, and has found herself drawn to classmate Craeg-a common civilian-and a vampire who has no idea about Paradise’s legacy or family history. What ensues is a slow building relationship between Paradise and Craeg while they endeavor to remain in the BDB program.

Meanwhile Butch and Marissa have hit a rough patch in their relationship wherein Butch’s nature to protect finds Marissa on the outside looking in-Butch’s Catholic upbringing plays a significant role in his attitude towards women and sex, and with it comes the potential to push away the woman that he loves. When an abused female vampire dies under Marissa and Haver’s care, Butch embarks upon an investigation that leads to the dark and seedy underworld of sex clubs and BDSM.

A number of the Black Dagger brothers play secondary and supporting roles including Vishous (V) and his mate Doc Jane, with cameos by several of the BDB (but not all) and their shellans, as well as our favorite fallen angel Lassiter, whose comedic timing is perfect when everything is about to go to h*ll. We are introduced to five more potential Black Dagger brothers in training: Paradise’s best friend Peyton; Novo-the only other female who passed the grueling initial marathon of tests; Anslam-Paradise’s distant cousin; troubled Axe; and Boone. As per many young adults, our BDB trainees have issues with sex and drugs, but most of all with the loss of so many family members to the raids, years before.

With the release of BLOOD KISS JR Ward has brought back the familiar, the loved, the swoon-worthy; the original Black Dagger brothers and what we loved best about the early installments in the series. Although most of the Brothers do not play significant roles, the feel of, and recognizable familiar atmosphere is present-something that had been missing from the last few installments. With the storyline focusing on only two couples, as well as the introduction of several new ‘potential brothers’, JR Ward has reigned in the number of supplementary and nonessential plotline introductions that have engulfed the latest BDB installments.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Shadows (Black Dagger Brotherhood #13) by JR Ward-a review

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The Shadows (Black Dagger Brotherhood 13) by J.R. Ward-a review

The Shadows Apr 15

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the Book: Release Date March 31, 2015

Trez “Latimer” doesn’t really exist. And not just because the identity was created so that a Shadow could function in the underbelly of the human world. Sold by his parents to the Queen of the S’Hsibe as a child, Trez escaped the Territory and has been a pimp and an enforcer in Caldwell, NY for years- all the while on the run from a destiny of sexual servitude. He’s never had anyone he could totally rely on… except for his brother, iAm.

iAm’s sole goal has always been to keep his brother from self-destructing- and he knows he’s failed. It’s not until the Chosen Serena enters Trez’s life that the male begins to turn things around… but by then it’s too late. The pledge to mate the Queen’s daughter comes due and there is nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, and no negotiating.

Trapped between his heart and a fate he never volunteered for, Trez must decide whether to endanger himself and others- or forever leave behind the female he’s in love with. But then an unimaginable tragedy strikes and changes everything. Staring out over an emotional abyss, Trez must find a reason to go on or risk losing himself and his soul forever. And iAm, in the name of brotherly love, is faced with making the ultimate sacrifice…

Review:

As with all of Ward’s books, there’s a lot going on. The Shadows begins a few months after The King ends. Trez has kept his distance from Selena, which has done nothing but confuse her. He knows the clock is ticking. He and iAm have been awaiting the birth of the S’Hsibe Queen’s baby, and that birth will determine if he will have to fulfill his destined servitude to the current heir to the throne. Of course, Selena doesn’t know the details about his potential servitude, but she does know that she wants him with everything in her. Selena makes up her mind that she has to tell Trez how she feels and makes a trip to the Chosen’s sanctuary to clear her head and come up with a plan, but as she is wandering the grounds, disaster strikes.

Trez is at his club where they have a situation that requires the help of the Brothers. V and Rhage make the scene to take care of said situation, when things get a little wonky….. They are giving Trez a bit of a hard time about Selena, when one of them goes too far and Trez attacks. Let’s just say that someone’s eyes light up and things have to happen pretty fast to keep to get Trez to back off, or someone will go into beast mode. Once things calm a little, V has a vision that Trez does not want to hear about……. As if that’s not wonky enough, a certain being appears to let Trez know that he is needed at the Sanctuary, and when he arrives? Nothing could have prepared him for what he saw. Absolutely nothing. I can’t say more about what transpires once he arrives, as it would be a major spoiler, but things are set in motion that will leave you on the edge of your seat and a tear in your eye. iAm, of course, plays an integral role in this. It’s no secret that he finds his HEA in this story, but when you finally see who it is? Holy hell………… You will laugh and shake your head at the same time.

We also get to see how Luchas is faring after being rescued from that barrel filled with the Omega’s blood, and he’s not in a good place. Qhuinn pleads with him to feed and do what Doc Jane and Manny tell him to, but all Luchas can see is that he is damaged and he wants out. Permanently. He’s so angry and Qhuinn is so torn as to what to do for him, that he ultimately makes a decision that will have far reaching consequences as far as their relationship goes.

And, let’s not forget about Layla and Xcor and his Band of Bastards. After Wrath was voted in as the king, permanently, in the last book, Throe is not a happy camper, or Bastard as it were. Who does he blame? Xcor…….and Layla’s influence on him. The two still see each other, but things have changed a bit between them, and when Layla voices her thoughts and beliefs on what’s going on, Xcor is not happy. Not because she isn’t spot on with what she says, but that she has figured him out. There is a HUGE shake up with the BoBs, and I, for one, didn’t see that playing out as it did! (Bravo Ward!)

The Brothers are all in this one. Some more than others, but they are all hands on deck as things are dire for the Shadows. Rhage, in particular, plays a big part in this storyline. He is having issues with what’s going on, especially with Trez and Selena. Funny thing about those Brothers……….Family is everything to them, and Trez and iAm are definitely part of that. And, when Wrath speaks, everyone listens. Unless, you’re that knucklehead, Trez. He thinks that by sacrificing himself, he’ll keep the Brothers safe……….. Uh huh……

And, last but not least, we meet Paradise, daughter of Abolone. Why is that of importance, you may ask? She is the heroine in the first book of the new Black Dagger Legacy series. We also get a brief meet and greet with Craeg, the hero of the same story. I can’t wait to find out more about this kid. Even though it was very brief, you know down to your toes that he has a lot of story to tell.

I really liked The Shadows. For me, it was kind of like Phury’s book, although that was my least favorite. It was necessary to take the story through to what’s ahead for the Brothers. I just wish I knew what that was. As I said earlier, we see everyone in this one. Our buddy Lassiter is there, as well as Assail. All of the Brothers, their shellans……….Because what happens in this one is heart breaking, and I know that a lot of readers will be insanely ticked off. If you’re not afraid of spoilers, you can go to Goodreads and read Ward’s post about where she was in her life and how that affected her writing profoundly in this one. I get it. I think I understand, but that doesn’t make me like what happened. I cried in this one. And, not where you would think. For me, it was the way the Brothers all rallied around Trez and iAm that had me doing the ugly cry. And, the way Trez and iAm are always there for each other? Ugly cry again. I know I’ve been vague and rambled a bit about this one, but it was a daunting task. Sandy usually writes these, and no one compares to her, so I did the best I could do. These are such complex books with so much going on, that I get a bit overwhelmed. But, I digress. I love the Brothers. I love J.R. Ward. If I had to pick one paranormal author to read for the rest of my life, it’d be her. Hands down. And, I know she’s going to take some flack over this one, but it’s her world and her characters, and I applaud her for telling her stories her way. Well done, J.R. Ward! Very, very well done.

Reviewed by Vickie M

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Immortal (Fallen Angels #6) by J.R.Ward-Review and Giveway

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Immortal (Fallen Angels #6) by JR. Ward-Review and Giveaway

Immortal Banner

Immortal
Fallen Angels #6
by J.R.Ward
Release Date: October 7, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

Immortal

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the book:

This is a world where sin and salvation collide. This is a world where a cynical fallen angel struggles with the seven deadly sins and seven chosen souls. With the spellbinding Immortal, the riveting series that “changed the face of paranormal romance” (Suit101.com) comes to an epic close as mankind’s reluctant savior struggles with his greatest challenge yet…

Review:

Immortal begins where the previous book left off.  Jim, the savior, has given up one of his wins to Devina, which gave her the lead by one.  Which means there are two souls left in play and Jim has to win the next two, or the evil Devina will literally rain hell down on earth.  Jim and Adrian, along with Sissy’s help, embark on their final journey together to try and right the wrongs wrought by Devina.  There is so much going on in this book that it makes it hard to even give a synopsis without giving away too much.  They are dealing with Nigel’s death which makes it even more difficult, as he was the “head” angel in heaven and the leader of Jim’s team.  They are still dealing with Eddie’s death, as well as trying to figure out who the next souls in play will be.  But, once they start figuring out whose souls have been placed in play by the Creator, things get to rolling. Fast.  And, yep, I didn’t see it coming.  Let’s just say they didn’t have to look far……..

J.R. Ward wrote a very good conclusion to her Fallen Angels series.  (I can’t believe it’s over!!)  There is angst, lots of despair and ultimate redemption that will keep you twisting in your seat.  Jim is the ultimate hero, not only fighting evil in the world, but fighting the demons within himself.  And, I don’t even know where to start with Devina.  She is one of the best anti-heroes I’ve ever read.  She is the ultimate evil, who has temper tantrums like a moody teenager which makes her so much fun to read.  Jim’s sidekicks, Adrian and Eddie, are AWESOME.  Sissy, who ends up being the heroine of the series, grew into her own throughout the book, and even though I didn’t think she was quite right for Jim, the fact that they end up together and in a wonderful place, brought a tear to my eye…..or 100…….or more……

The only thing that has curbed my sadness at this series being over is the fact that Ward has said that Devina, Adrian and Eddie will crossover at some point into the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  And, I could not be happier about that.  They will be a fabulous addition to an already freaking awesome series.  Well done, J.R. Ward, very very well done.

Reviewed by Vickie M

giveaway

JR Ward’s publisher is graciously offering a HARD COVER copy of IMMORTAL to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Please LIKE us on GOODREADS  for an additional entry.

6. Please LIKE JR WARD on FACEBOOK.

7. Giveaway is U.S. only

8. Giveaway runs from October 19-October 24, 2014, 2014

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