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MacNachton Vampires #8
Highland Hunger
Hidden in the shadowy caves and caverns of the Scottish Highlands, secret vampire clans wage dark battles both deadly and passionate. . .
"Dark Embrace" by Hannah Howell
While searching for his clan's demon Lost Ones, Raibeart MacNachton encounters an ethereal beauty running for her life. The decision to play hero is easy; fighting the urge to ravish the enchanting Una Dunn is more difficult—especially when Raibeart learns they share a powerful connection.
"The Guardian" by Michele Sinclair
The immortal Dorian vows never to fall in love with a mere human—until he meets the beguiling, arousing, Moirae Deincourt. She stirs a longing in Dorian that he dares not quench. But when Moirae's life is put in danger, her true nature is revealed—and the lust that rages between them can no longer be controlled. . .
"A Knight Beyond Black" by Jackie Ivie
Vampire Iain Duncan MacAvee has stepped forward to claim the woman he betrothed years ago—only to learn that the tempting Lady Tira knows nothing of the engagement. Though Tira feigns disinterest, the Duke's animal-like charisma has unleashed her most carnal desires—a hunger only Iain can satisfy. . .
"Dark Embrace" by Hannah Howell
While searching for his clan's demon Lost Ones, Raibeart MacNachton encounters an ethereal beauty running for her life. The decision to play hero is easy; fighting the urge to ravish the enchanting Una Dunn is more difficult—especially when Raibeart learns they share a powerful connection.
"The Guardian" by Michele Sinclair
The immortal Dorian vows never to fall in love with a mere human—until he meets the beguiling, arousing, Moirae Deincourt. She stirs a longing in Dorian that he dares not quench. But when Moirae's life is put in danger, her true nature is revealed—and the lust that rages between them can no longer be controlled. . .
"A Knight Beyond Black" by Jackie Ivie
Vampire Iain Duncan MacAvee has stepped forward to claim the woman he betrothed years ago—only to learn that the tempting Lady Tira knows nothing of the engagement. Though Tira feigns disinterest, the Duke's animal-like charisma has unleashed her most carnal desires—a hunger only Iain can satisfy. . .
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
97 people are currently reading
962 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Howell
116 books2,644 followersHannah Dustin Howell is a best-selling American author of over 40 historical romance novels. Many of her novels are set in medieval Scotland. She also writes under the names Sarah Dustin, Sandra Dustin, and Anna Jennet (see below).
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 14, 2011
I'd love to give this 5 stars for the droolicious cover. But the actual book is more like 3.5 stars. Entertaining stories that I think most fans of Hot Scots who happen to be vampires would enjoy. (Danielle pauses mini-review to stare longingly at the beautiful cover.) Where was I???? (Pulls attention back to review.) Oh. This was reviewed for the September issue of Affaire de Coeur magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
September 29, 2012
I bought this anthology strictly for "The Guardian" Michele Sinclair's novella, and that is all I have read. This book takes us from 1365 Japan to 1365 Scotland... through the eyes of a vampire, or Nosferatu. The Hero of the book, Dorian has been alive for 2 thousand years and is having a feud with his nephew, so he appoints himself as a Guardian of the innocent people of Scotland, protecting them from his nephews wrath. But it turns out his nephew is looking for someone in particular, someone with very strong powers, but why?
Moira is the Guardian of this small area of Scotland, protecting people from raiders and such, but what she is really doing is looking for the monsters who killed her family and injured her when she was 17, causing a permanent limp. When she found him, well, he evoked feelings she had never felt. But she had to be careful around him, there were secrets she must keep.
I went into this book prepared to love it. I have loved every other book of Ms Sinclair's that I have read. I don't know if the problem was that it was a novella and it was rushed, or I just had trouble with some of the story lines, like the origin of nosferatu. Why was there such a feud between Dorian and his nephew? It plays hard in the "meat" of the book... but I just didn't feel it. The other problem might have been that it is a "stand alone" novella instead of a continuation of a story so there was so much that had to be explained in such a small amount of pages, and still get in the "I love you's"... I just wasn't feeling it so much. I did feel like this was the beginning of series, and I might be interested as long as it isn't just novellas, but maybe branch out into books to give the characters time to develop.
All of this author's Highland books are on auto buy... I'm a McTiernay stalker! But I'll do a bit of research before I buy the next one in this series.
Until Next Time!
xxoo Terree
Moira is the Guardian of this small area of Scotland, protecting people from raiders and such, but what she is really doing is looking for the monsters who killed her family and injured her when she was 17, causing a permanent limp. When she found him, well, he evoked feelings she had never felt. But she had to be careful around him, there were secrets she must keep.
I went into this book prepared to love it. I have loved every other book of Ms Sinclair's that I have read. I don't know if the problem was that it was a novella and it was rushed, or I just had trouble with some of the story lines, like the origin of nosferatu. Why was there such a feud between Dorian and his nephew? It plays hard in the "meat" of the book... but I just didn't feel it. The other problem might have been that it is a "stand alone" novella instead of a continuation of a story so there was so much that had to be explained in such a small amount of pages, and still get in the "I love you's"... I just wasn't feeling it so much. I did feel like this was the beginning of series, and I might be interested as long as it isn't just novellas, but maybe branch out into books to give the characters time to develop.
All of this author's Highland books are on auto buy... I'm a McTiernay stalker! But I'll do a bit of research before I buy the next one in this series.
Until Next Time!
xxoo Terree
February 26, 2019
Once more Hannah Howell create a good paranormal fiction with lots of action, adventure, hot sex, love forever... damsels and bairns in distress, alpha males... and a great author anthology collaboration
October 28, 2012
The cover is a 10!
Dark Embrace: I still love the MacNachtons but the names of the heroes are not getting high marks. Raibeart? Really? He is so much more than his name implies, however. He is more comfortable calming horses than women and is absolutely adorable when he tries. Una is the right woman for him. She is courageous and protective. This is not the last of the MacNachtons since the apex bad guy is still unknown but this story brought down a number two.
"A Knight Beyond Black" is about Iain and Tira. She comes across like an overly cossetted prima donna and he is masculinity personified but has never had to woo a lady and is a green boy at it. I chuckled many times. His discomfort made him even more attractive. I didn't like that Iain "changed" Tira before she agreed. Then she just sort of threw up her hands and said "Oh, well". That part did not work for me.
"The Guardian" was interesting because Moirae is not quite a normal human. Dorian is a bored, aristocratic vampire who gets knocked out of his ennui by her. I loved that she found ways to overcome her weaknesses (limp) and developed her strengths. There's a few lessons woven into this story. I liked that she made Dorian sit up and pay attention. The ending was so abrupt though that I thought I was missing pages.
Dark Embrace: I still love the MacNachtons but the names of the heroes are not getting high marks. Raibeart? Really? He is so much more than his name implies, however. He is more comfortable calming horses than women and is absolutely adorable when he tries. Una is the right woman for him. She is courageous and protective. This is not the last of the MacNachtons since the apex bad guy is still unknown but this story brought down a number two.
"A Knight Beyond Black" is about Iain and Tira. She comes across like an overly cossetted prima donna and he is masculinity personified but has never had to woo a lady and is a green boy at it. I chuckled many times. His discomfort made him even more attractive. I didn't like that Iain "changed" Tira before she agreed. Then she just sort of threw up her hands and said "Oh, well". That part did not work for me.
"The Guardian" was interesting because Moirae is not quite a normal human. Dorian is a bored, aristocratic vampire who gets knocked out of his ennui by her. I loved that she found ways to overcome her weaknesses (limp) and developed her strengths. There's a few lessons woven into this story. I liked that she made Dorian sit up and pay attention. The ending was so abrupt though that I thought I was missing pages.
January 14, 2013
I admit that I wasn't discerning about picking this particular book to learn more about the Scottish/historical/paranormal romance sub genre. It was available digitally through the library and I just went for it out of curiosity and boredom. I immediately lost my curiosity and managed to become more bored than if I had just sat around doing nothing. I very much hope that the first story (the only one I started, and I think I made a valiant effort by reading a whole eight chapters) is not representative of the sub genre. If it were meant as erotica, there's not enough action, so to speak, and if it's meant to be a romance, there's not enough story. The relationship develops faster than I can pour a bowl of cereal, and reaches its climax, so to speak, just in time for me to lose my appetite.
December 4, 2012
I admit it: I love a good Highland romance novel. And Hell, I enjoyed Twilight as much as the next mom. But here we have not one, but three authors who apparently thought combining Highlanders with vampires was a good idea. These books are BAD. Really Bad. As in, the hours spent reading this will never be retrieved, it doesn't even help that it was a free library book, and the grammar is so atrocious that you can't even blame it on bad editing. This book is everything that gives the romance genre a bad name. Terrible prose and dialogue, bad plot and character development, wildly unsatisfying endings...the list is endless. Just don't go here.
October 8, 2015
Boring. Nothing much happened.
April 20, 2020
Terrific
All three stories were wonderful to read. I have enjoyed stories by the authors, Hannah Howell and Michele Sinclair, for a long time. But, now look forward to more by Jackie Ivie as well.
All three stories were wonderful to read. I have enjoyed stories by the authors, Hannah Howell and Michele Sinclair, for a long time. But, now look forward to more by Jackie Ivie as well.
Read
August 19, 2019Read "Dark Embrace" by Hannah Howell
August 14, 2020
The Hannah Howell was the best of the bunch. Overall an okay anthology. But I'd suggest borrowing not buying.
August 11, 2021
Good plot on the first book. The second book…not so much. The third book starts with a good plot, but ends abruptly.
March 3, 2022
Loved It
I couldn't put it down and can't wait to read the next one. Really great storyline and ending with more to come.
I couldn't put it down and can't wait to read the next one. Really great storyline and ending with more to come.
January 24, 2023
Just read the MacNachtons story
May 12, 2024
2 out of 3 stories GREAT
May 13, 2024
Three short stories, not bad. But the third story left you hanging.
August 11, 2017
A pretty good read. I enjoyed the first and last stories but the middle one was a tad different and didn't really get to me as much. They were written well though and had good plots and characters.
February 5, 2012
Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: This delightful anthology delivers romance, plenty of interesting characters, and will leave readers wanting more.
The Review:
This is my first story by all three of these authors, at least that I can recall. Each of these stories features a paranormal lead male of the “vampire” variety and a not so vampire-ish leading lady. All of the stories are set in the Highlands of Scotland in the time of kings and lairds…
“Dark Embrace” by Hannah Howell (MacNachton Vampires series)
A touching tale of an innocent maiden, on the run from a psychotic madman, who is saved by knight on a black horse instead of a white horse and without the shine. You catch the drift. However, Una Dunn is not your typical damsel in distress. This girl can kick butt and take the pursuant names, all without breaking a nail. A genetic mix between ordinary human and the clan MacNachton, Una has always been stronger and faster than the average bad guy. While being held captive with eight others like her, Una escapes to search for help. But, after being starved and bled for weeks, she finds herself surrounded by henchmen and in danger of being recaptured. Then, just at the right moment, in marches, or rides as the case may be, Sir Raibeart MacNachton, resident hot guy on a horse and, it turns out, he’s pretty good with his sword too…ahem. After hearing her story, he offers his and his fellow clansmen’s aid in rescuing her fellow captives. The bad guys are defeated, the captives recovered, and in the end Una realizes that Raibeart has not only rescued her friends, but also her heart as well.
Rating: 4/5
“A Knight Beyond Black” by Jackie Ivie
Just looking back through my notes for this story, my first reaction is “Ummmmm” shortly followed by “Huh?” I will say that this story starts off a tad bit…. randomly. It took me a full three chapters to understand fully the premise of the story. And in a story with only sixteen chapters, that kind of seems like a long time. Anyway, this story starts off at a ball in London, where the almost beautiful Miss Tira Coombs is scandalously swept off her very feet by the enigmatic and very fan worthy Iain Duncan Evan James Alexander MacAvee. The IV. Duke of MacAvee, Earl of blah blah blah, chieftain of clans so on and so forth. She then finds out that Iain is her arranged betrothed, her parental unit having kept this news from her for the entirety of her 21 years. Love those good old days. Imagine on his part, waiting 21 years for his bride to mature, that’s a long wait. Especially when, on the day of her birth, the very earth whispered to him that his soul mate had arrived. Eventually, Iain wears Tira down and the couple is married. So the “happy” couple leaves London after their nuptials and they board a ship to his homeland. While on the ship she finds out her new husband is a… *gasp* …a vampire and on top of that bad news he has turned her into one as well.
This is the one thing that I dislike the most when I see it in any historical or paranormal romance. I know it’s the way things were, and I get it, but I hate when a characters free will is taken from them. Really! Aside from that point, the story is a good one, and I liked it. And they do eventually find their HEA.
Rating: 3/5
“The Guardian” by Michele Sinclair (McTiernay Brothers series)
This novella tells the story of Dorian, a centuries old nosferatu who is bored with life and searching for something. We are also introduced to Moirae Deincourt, enigmatic social outcast who runs around at night protecting the innocent, a la Bruce Wayne. After an attack and subsequent fire leave her physically damaged at age seventeen, Moirae vows to find those responsible. Dorian, a mystery himself, takes up residence in a nearby castle, and also takes over the role of Batman, or in this case, “The Guardian.” When the new guardian repeatedly out performs her, and saves her life, once or twice, Moirae decides to use Dorian as an asset and she bribes him into training her in physical combat. Dorian, on the other hand, is aiming for another type of physical training altogether. By the end of the story it is revealed that not only does Dorian have a touch of the paranormal within his chromosomes, but Moirae is also special within her own right. And that ensures a rather long HEA in their future.
Rating: 4/5
FTC Advisory: Kensington Books provided me with a copy of Highland Hunger. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: This delightful anthology delivers romance, plenty of interesting characters, and will leave readers wanting more.
The Review:
This is my first story by all three of these authors, at least that I can recall. Each of these stories features a paranormal lead male of the “vampire” variety and a not so vampire-ish leading lady. All of the stories are set in the Highlands of Scotland in the time of kings and lairds…
“Dark Embrace” by Hannah Howell (MacNachton Vampires series)
A touching tale of an innocent maiden, on the run from a psychotic madman, who is saved by knight on a black horse instead of a white horse and without the shine. You catch the drift. However, Una Dunn is not your typical damsel in distress. This girl can kick butt and take the pursuant names, all without breaking a nail. A genetic mix between ordinary human and the clan MacNachton, Una has always been stronger and faster than the average bad guy. While being held captive with eight others like her, Una escapes to search for help. But, after being starved and bled for weeks, she finds herself surrounded by henchmen and in danger of being recaptured. Then, just at the right moment, in marches, or rides as the case may be, Sir Raibeart MacNachton, resident hot guy on a horse and, it turns out, he’s pretty good with his sword too…ahem. After hearing her story, he offers his and his fellow clansmen’s aid in rescuing her fellow captives. The bad guys are defeated, the captives recovered, and in the end Una realizes that Raibeart has not only rescued her friends, but also her heart as well.
Rating: 4/5
“A Knight Beyond Black” by Jackie Ivie
Just looking back through my notes for this story, my first reaction is “Ummmmm” shortly followed by “Huh?” I will say that this story starts off a tad bit…. randomly. It took me a full three chapters to understand fully the premise of the story. And in a story with only sixteen chapters, that kind of seems like a long time. Anyway, this story starts off at a ball in London, where the almost beautiful Miss Tira Coombs is scandalously swept off her very feet by the enigmatic and very fan worthy Iain Duncan Evan James Alexander MacAvee. The IV. Duke of MacAvee, Earl of blah blah blah, chieftain of clans so on and so forth. She then finds out that Iain is her arranged betrothed, her parental unit having kept this news from her for the entirety of her 21 years. Love those good old days. Imagine on his part, waiting 21 years for his bride to mature, that’s a long wait. Especially when, on the day of her birth, the very earth whispered to him that his soul mate had arrived. Eventually, Iain wears Tira down and the couple is married. So the “happy” couple leaves London after their nuptials and they board a ship to his homeland. While on the ship she finds out her new husband is a… *gasp* …a vampire and on top of that bad news he has turned her into one as well.
This is the one thing that I dislike the most when I see it in any historical or paranormal romance. I know it’s the way things were, and I get it, but I hate when a characters free will is taken from them. Really! Aside from that point, the story is a good one, and I liked it. And they do eventually find their HEA.
Rating: 3/5
“The Guardian” by Michele Sinclair (McTiernay Brothers series)
This novella tells the story of Dorian, a centuries old nosferatu who is bored with life and searching for something. We are also introduced to Moirae Deincourt, enigmatic social outcast who runs around at night protecting the innocent, a la Bruce Wayne. After an attack and subsequent fire leave her physically damaged at age seventeen, Moirae vows to find those responsible. Dorian, a mystery himself, takes up residence in a nearby castle, and also takes over the role of Batman, or in this case, “The Guardian.” When the new guardian repeatedly out performs her, and saves her life, once or twice, Moirae decides to use Dorian as an asset and she bribes him into training her in physical combat. Dorian, on the other hand, is aiming for another type of physical training altogether. By the end of the story it is revealed that not only does Dorian have a touch of the paranormal within his chromosomes, but Moirae is also special within her own right. And that ensures a rather long HEA in their future.
Rating: 4/5
FTC Advisory: Kensington Books provided me with a copy of Highland Hunger. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
June 5, 2018
Looking for the 'Lost Ones' he saves the damsel and then helps her save others cages for their blood
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie - 3
Moirae is Guardian until Dorian returns seeking his nephew, who's spawn are attacking villagers. At first she tries to run him off then she convinces him to train her to fight with sword
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair - 4
Iain comes to claim his mate that he arranged with his father after she was born, only she doesn't know it, interesting but grated at times
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie - 3
Moirae is Guardian until Dorian returns seeking his nephew, who's spawn are attacking villagers. At first she tries to run him off then she convinces him to train her to fight with sword
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair - 4
Iain comes to claim his mate that he arranged with his father after she was born, only she doesn't know it, interesting but grated at times
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2011
Highland Hunger by Hannah Howell, Michele Sinclair and Jackie Ivie
Paranormal Romance- Aug. 30th, 2011
4 stars
Big, brawny highland vampires to make you swoon!
Dark Embrace by Hannah Howell
Raibeart MacNachton comes from a dying clan of immortals. His Laird has sent him out to find others related to his kind. Those who share their blood and many of their powers but who have mortal human blood and the ability to propagate. Raibeart has been searching fruitlessly until he comes to the aid of a lovely young lass named Una who is running from an evil lord who captured her and those like her. She and several others like her have abilities that the man she has escaped from wants for himself. And he has resorted to torture and draining them to achieve his aims. While Una comes to respect her rescuer Raibeart, she is still wary. But even though she admires him, she makes it clear she is unwilling to join him and his Laird unless her friends are freed, too. But will their reckless plans for a rescue result in more disaster?
This was an enjoyable read. Raibeart for all his strength is a very gentle and kind man. I loved reading how careful he was with the courageous Una. And Una was very deserving of her rescuer. Although this story was short, I could feel their appreciation and chemistry for each other. Well written and moving read. 4 stars
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair
Moirae is the mysterious Guardian of Badenoch. She has trained relentlessly to protect those she cares for but when she hears rumors of another claiming to be the Guardian, she is infuriated. She plans to meet this imposter and send him on his way. However, her plans quickly change when she meets Dorian, a powerful and attractive man who saves her from near death. For Dorian is an immortal and Moirae has his undivided attention because Moirae is special; there is something about her and her family which intrigues him. Soon he finds he will protect her at all costs.
This was a very intriguing read. I was enthralled with the concept of Dorian and the rest of his 'clan.' I would really like the author to expand upon this story. However, because the story was so short, it felt a bit rushed, and I had a feeling of the story being a bit unfinished. It felt like a very short novella or prequel-teaser. 3 1/2 stars
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie
Lady Tira is attractive but her independence, strong-will and opinionated ways keep many a suitor away. So it is with great surprise when she is accosted at a ball by a man named Ian Duncan MacAvee. While highly attracted to him, she does not care for his overly bold manner. When she finds she has been contracted to marry him since her birth, the fiery lady is livid and pleads to her father to prevent the marriage.
Ian Duncan MacAvee has waited 20 years for his fated mate to grow into adulthood before claiming her and his impatience shows. But he made a mistake by telling her they are marrying (without her consent) and not courting her properly. Can he make amends?
I really enjoy Jackie Ivie’s writing. Lady of the Knight is one of the best books written, ever! But this story felt like a bit of a miss for me. Although the author spends a great deal of time with the two main characters, I never felt that they really had a developing and emotional relationship. If it was a longer story, I think this hurdle would have easily been overcome. While it was entertaining (as Ian gets advice on courting) and often funny, the romance did not quite work for me. 3 1/2 stars
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance- Aug. 30th, 2011
4 stars
Big, brawny highland vampires to make you swoon!
Dark Embrace by Hannah Howell
Raibeart MacNachton comes from a dying clan of immortals. His Laird has sent him out to find others related to his kind. Those who share their blood and many of their powers but who have mortal human blood and the ability to propagate. Raibeart has been searching fruitlessly until he comes to the aid of a lovely young lass named Una who is running from an evil lord who captured her and those like her. She and several others like her have abilities that the man she has escaped from wants for himself. And he has resorted to torture and draining them to achieve his aims. While Una comes to respect her rescuer Raibeart, she is still wary. But even though she admires him, she makes it clear she is unwilling to join him and his Laird unless her friends are freed, too. But will their reckless plans for a rescue result in more disaster?
This was an enjoyable read. Raibeart for all his strength is a very gentle and kind man. I loved reading how careful he was with the courageous Una. And Una was very deserving of her rescuer. Although this story was short, I could feel their appreciation and chemistry for each other. Well written and moving read. 4 stars
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair
Moirae is the mysterious Guardian of Badenoch. She has trained relentlessly to protect those she cares for but when she hears rumors of another claiming to be the Guardian, she is infuriated. She plans to meet this imposter and send him on his way. However, her plans quickly change when she meets Dorian, a powerful and attractive man who saves her from near death. For Dorian is an immortal and Moirae has his undivided attention because Moirae is special; there is something about her and her family which intrigues him. Soon he finds he will protect her at all costs.
This was a very intriguing read. I was enthralled with the concept of Dorian and the rest of his 'clan.' I would really like the author to expand upon this story. However, because the story was so short, it felt a bit rushed, and I had a feeling of the story being a bit unfinished. It felt like a very short novella or prequel-teaser. 3 1/2 stars
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie
Lady Tira is attractive but her independence, strong-will and opinionated ways keep many a suitor away. So it is with great surprise when she is accosted at a ball by a man named Ian Duncan MacAvee. While highly attracted to him, she does not care for his overly bold manner. When she finds she has been contracted to marry him since her birth, the fiery lady is livid and pleads to her father to prevent the marriage.
Ian Duncan MacAvee has waited 20 years for his fated mate to grow into adulthood before claiming her and his impatience shows. But he made a mistake by telling her they are marrying (without her consent) and not courting her properly. Can he make amends?
I really enjoy Jackie Ivie’s writing. Lady of the Knight is one of the best books written, ever! But this story felt like a bit of a miss for me. Although the author spends a great deal of time with the two main characters, I never felt that they really had a developing and emotional relationship. If it was a longer story, I think this hurdle would have easily been overcome. While it was entertaining (as Ian gets advice on courting) and often funny, the romance did not quite work for me. 3 1/2 stars
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
August 28, 2011
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
"Dark Embrace " by Hannah Howell (MacNachton Vampires series)
A young woman manages to escape a prison where she was being kept because of her unique blood and is aided by a man who claims that she is descended from vampires. They slowly fall in love while on the run from her captors in a way that novellas rarely capture. ‘Dark Embrace’ is the clear winner in this anthology. It has the details historical fans crave, the beautiful love story for romance fans, and the vampire mythology that paranormal fans will devour. I’ve never read the MacNachton Vampire series before, but this story makes me want to.
Sexual Content: One sex scene. References to rape Rating: 4/5
"The Guardian " by Michele Sinclair (McTiernay Brothers series)
When confronted with a superior swordsman, a woman who has sworn to avenge the death of her family enlists his help to master the blade. Romance blossoms as he teaches her, but as an immortal, he is not willing to risk loving a mortal who will die, whereas she is determined never to let him go. This story had moments that reminded me of My Fair Lady, but the ending was rushed to resolve everything much too quickly for my taste. The sequel set up at the end is a good one though, and I would be interesting in reading more about this couple.
Sexual Content: One sex scene Rating: 3/5
"A Knight Beyond Black " by Jackie Ivie
On the eve of her twenty-first birthday, a spinster woman is shocked to learn that she’s been betrothed since birth to an uncivilized Scotsman, who, unbeknownst to her, is a centuries old vampire. This is one of those ‘I know you are my mate the moment I see you’ stories that I tend to have little patience with. Initially, Iain had that fun arrogance that I always fall for, but he soon turned into an emotional wreck as he constantly begged his new wife to keep her distance since he couldn’t control his desire for her. It never made sense to me since his wife was extremely happy with his desire. Tira, on the other hand, was was too schizophrenic when it came to her feeling to win me over. Plus it was really not sexy to read about her ‘woman place’ and his ‘man part’.
Sexual Content: a few sex scenes Rating: 2/5
"Dark Embrace " by Hannah Howell (MacNachton Vampires series)
A young woman manages to escape a prison where she was being kept because of her unique blood and is aided by a man who claims that she is descended from vampires. They slowly fall in love while on the run from her captors in a way that novellas rarely capture. ‘Dark Embrace’ is the clear winner in this anthology. It has the details historical fans crave, the beautiful love story for romance fans, and the vampire mythology that paranormal fans will devour. I’ve never read the MacNachton Vampire series before, but this story makes me want to.
Sexual Content: One sex scene. References to rape Rating: 4/5
"The Guardian " by Michele Sinclair (McTiernay Brothers series)
When confronted with a superior swordsman, a woman who has sworn to avenge the death of her family enlists his help to master the blade. Romance blossoms as he teaches her, but as an immortal, he is not willing to risk loving a mortal who will die, whereas she is determined never to let him go. This story had moments that reminded me of My Fair Lady, but the ending was rushed to resolve everything much too quickly for my taste. The sequel set up at the end is a good one though, and I would be interesting in reading more about this couple.
Sexual Content: One sex scene Rating: 3/5
"A Knight Beyond Black " by Jackie Ivie
On the eve of her twenty-first birthday, a spinster woman is shocked to learn that she’s been betrothed since birth to an uncivilized Scotsman, who, unbeknownst to her, is a centuries old vampire. This is one of those ‘I know you are my mate the moment I see you’ stories that I tend to have little patience with. Initially, Iain had that fun arrogance that I always fall for, but he soon turned into an emotional wreck as he constantly begged his new wife to keep her distance since he couldn’t control his desire for her. It never made sense to me since his wife was extremely happy with his desire. Tira, on the other hand, was was too schizophrenic when it came to her feeling to win me over. Plus it was really not sexy to read about her ‘woman place’ and his ‘man part’.
Sexual Content: a few sex scenes Rating: 2/5
March 25, 2016
3 novels in one--HIGHLAND HUNGER--is a story hidden in the shadowy caves and caverns of the Scottish Highlands, where secret vampire clans wage dark battles both deadly and passionate.
Novel 1: DARK EMBRACE was written by Hannah Howell details Robert MacNachton search for the Lost Ones of his powerful clan. These vampire-human hybrids will help the clan maintain its strength by infusing new blood into the gene pool. During his search, Robert encounters Una, an etheral beauty, who captures his heart. She is fleeing from a cruel laird who has captured several Lost Ones--keeping them caged, assaulting them and bleeding them for their unique blood. Robert and Una gather his clansmen and free the eight Lost One--who eventually become members of Robert's clan, safe from future capture and torture.
Novel 2: A KNIGHT BEYOND BLACK was written by Jackie Ivie. Vampire Iain Duncan MacAvee comes to claim a young woman who was promised to him at her birth. Lady Tira is not aware of the arrangement that her father made with Iain. She had never met the Duke and does not wish to marry him at midnight on her twenty-first birthday--the night agreed upon by her father. She finally agrees to marry him if he will give her a few days to prepare. Of course, his aversion to the sun makes this 'getting to know you' time unfulfilling. Tira feigns disinterest in Iain but is drawn to his animalistic charm. They do wed and leave for his estates in the Highlands of Scotland only to encounter resistance from his conniving nephew. Duke Iain and Lady Tira prevail, he changes her into a kindred and they continue to fight the good fight.
Novel 3: THE GUARDIAN written by Michele Sinclair details the love affair of the immortal Dorian and the human Moirae. Dorian has vowed that he will never take another human lover. However, the beguiling Moirae tempts him beyond his limits. Especially when she reveals that she too is of immortal extraction. Moirae's life is threatened. Dorian saves her and they give in to their mutual lust. He is determined to maintain his clans' lands and continues searching for Mairae's true father--a vampire who disappeared jsut after her birth.
Novel 1: DARK EMBRACE was written by Hannah Howell details Robert MacNachton search for the Lost Ones of his powerful clan. These vampire-human hybrids will help the clan maintain its strength by infusing new blood into the gene pool. During his search, Robert encounters Una, an etheral beauty, who captures his heart. She is fleeing from a cruel laird who has captured several Lost Ones--keeping them caged, assaulting them and bleeding them for their unique blood. Robert and Una gather his clansmen and free the eight Lost One--who eventually become members of Robert's clan, safe from future capture and torture.
Novel 2: A KNIGHT BEYOND BLACK was written by Jackie Ivie. Vampire Iain Duncan MacAvee comes to claim a young woman who was promised to him at her birth. Lady Tira is not aware of the arrangement that her father made with Iain. She had never met the Duke and does not wish to marry him at midnight on her twenty-first birthday--the night agreed upon by her father. She finally agrees to marry him if he will give her a few days to prepare. Of course, his aversion to the sun makes this 'getting to know you' time unfulfilling. Tira feigns disinterest in Iain but is drawn to his animalistic charm. They do wed and leave for his estates in the Highlands of Scotland only to encounter resistance from his conniving nephew. Duke Iain and Lady Tira prevail, he changes her into a kindred and they continue to fight the good fight.
Novel 3: THE GUARDIAN written by Michele Sinclair details the love affair of the immortal Dorian and the human Moirae. Dorian has vowed that he will never take another human lover. However, the beguiling Moirae tempts him beyond his limits. Especially when she reveals that she too is of immortal extraction. Moirae's life is threatened. Dorian saves her and they give in to their mutual lust. He is determined to maintain his clans' lands and continues searching for Mairae's true father--a vampire who disappeared jsut after her birth.
September 10, 2016
Highland Hunger is a historical paranormal romance, it is also an anthology with three stories by Hannah Howell, Michele Sinclair and Jackie Ivie.
Dark Embrace by Hannah Howell
Raibeart is a vampire who comes from dying clan. He has been sent out on a mission to find other's like him. After a not finding anyone he comes across a young lady named Una who had been captured by an evil man and has just recently escaped. It was a good story, there was good chemistry and I thought it was well written.
5 stars
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie.
Iain arrives one night at a ball with the full intention of marrying his betrothed. But Tira has no idea she is betrothed, in fact she has prepared herself for spinsterhood. She soon finds out her father has in fact sold her marital status so they could survive. This story was just ok, it feel apart for me a times, in part because I was lost for a good portion of the story and the second issue was that I could not relate to Iain.
3 stars
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair.
Moirae is a guardian of her village (town, whatever) and her family was killed, an event that she barely survived. Dorian is a vampire who is a little bored with life and sets out to see what mischief his nephew Ionas is up to. When they meet Dorian and Moirae deny their feelings and it makes for an interesting tale. Out of the three this one should have been a full length book. While I really enjoyed it. all of the careful building seemed to falter as we raced to the end and it felt really rushed.
3 1/2 stars
Dark Embrace by Hannah Howell
Raibeart is a vampire who comes from dying clan. He has been sent out on a mission to find other's like him. After a not finding anyone he comes across a young lady named Una who had been captured by an evil man and has just recently escaped. It was a good story, there was good chemistry and I thought it was well written.
5 stars
A Knight Beyond Black by Jackie Ivie.
Iain arrives one night at a ball with the full intention of marrying his betrothed. But Tira has no idea she is betrothed, in fact she has prepared herself for spinsterhood. She soon finds out her father has in fact sold her marital status so they could survive. This story was just ok, it feel apart for me a times, in part because I was lost for a good portion of the story and the second issue was that I could not relate to Iain.
3 stars
The Guardian by Michele Sinclair.
Moirae is a guardian of her village (town, whatever) and her family was killed, an event that she barely survived. Dorian is a vampire who is a little bored with life and sets out to see what mischief his nephew Ionas is up to. When they meet Dorian and Moirae deny their feelings and it makes for an interesting tale. Out of the three this one should have been a full length book. While I really enjoyed it. all of the careful building seemed to falter as we raced to the end and it felt really rushed.
3 1/2 stars
June 18, 2012
I lament the fact that Ms Howell no longer collaborates with Ms Sands on the McNachton series. Since they're all novellas, this requires additional filler and sadly, it's not all that. Perhaps if Ms Howell would just write a full-length novel...
So...the entries
Dark Embrace: another McNachton and somewhat predictable - H finds a Lost One in the form of a female, falls hard for her, takes her home with hunters hot on their heels, goes back and rescues any Lost Ones who have fallen into the hands of The Enemy, etc. Predicable but nothing creepy or...
A Knight Beyond Black - I had a *lot* of issues with this one. First off, H "knew the h was his mate as soon as she was born" and betrothed himself to her while she was an infant (reading too much twilight, dear author?), second, nobody told her until... her 21st birthday. Third, as in several cases of traditional vampire love stories, the author fails to make the distinction between attraction and compulsion. Then there's the whole turning her on their wedding night without even telling her what he was, avoiding her because she wanted answers and he wasn't very good at talking (this involved locking her in a room, btw)... Just not feeling this one AT ALL.
The Guardian - I liked this one. The H made me think of Highlander (the movie), the h wasn't exactly human either, and while I did wonder at her ancestry, at least he wasn't her dad (he hadn't been to the area in 200 years).
So...the entries
Dark Embrace: another McNachton and somewhat predictable - H finds a Lost One in the form of a female, falls hard for her, takes her home with hunters hot on their heels, goes back and rescues any Lost Ones who have fallen into the hands of The Enemy, etc. Predicable but nothing creepy or...
A Knight Beyond Black - I had a *lot* of issues with this one. First off, H "knew the h was his mate as soon as she was born" and betrothed himself to her while she was an infant (reading too much twilight, dear author?), second, nobody told her until... her 21st birthday. Third, as in several cases of traditional vampire love stories, the author fails to make the distinction between attraction and compulsion. Then there's the whole turning her on their wedding night without even telling her what he was, avoiding her because she wanted answers and he wasn't very good at talking (this involved locking her in a room, btw)... Just not feeling this one AT ALL.
The Guardian - I liked this one. The H made me think of Highlander (the movie), the h wasn't exactly human either, and while I did wonder at her ancestry, at least he wasn't her dad (he hadn't been to the area in 200 years).
November 4, 2011
Hannah Howell - 5 stars
Jackie Ivie - 2 stars
Michele Sinclair - 4 stars
I have a huge Hannah Howell weakness and absolutely love her books and this one for me was no different. I really enjoy all of her MacNaughton series and so wish she would start doing full length novels instead of just novellas as part of an anthology.
Jackie Ivie's book left me wanting in a couple of areas. I truly didn't care for the heroine at all. I believe the hero definitely deserved much better and so wished that also the heroine would have spoken up for herself against her sister. Otherwise, the story line and time that it had taken place in didn't interest me very much and I find that I often strongly dislike the ball gowns, balls, society, etc., that was included, therefore truly didn't enjoy this book.
I also greatly enjoyed Michele Sinclair's book. It was left open for future books and I hope it is expanded with more characters. I look forward to seeing more.
Jackie Ivie - 2 stars
Michele Sinclair - 4 stars
I have a huge Hannah Howell weakness and absolutely love her books and this one for me was no different. I really enjoy all of her MacNaughton series and so wish she would start doing full length novels instead of just novellas as part of an anthology.
Jackie Ivie's book left me wanting in a couple of areas. I truly didn't care for the heroine at all. I believe the hero definitely deserved much better and so wished that also the heroine would have spoken up for herself against her sister. Otherwise, the story line and time that it had taken place in didn't interest me very much and I find that I often strongly dislike the ball gowns, balls, society, etc., that was included, therefore truly didn't enjoy this book.
I also greatly enjoyed Michele Sinclair's book. It was left open for future books and I hope it is expanded with more characters. I look forward to seeing more.
January 25, 2013
Hannah Howell - 4.5 stars
I like this series and this one didn't disappoint me.
Jackie Ivie - 2 stars
I have mixed feelings about this one. The beginning was interesting, middle was so so and by the end I was bored and couldn't wait for it to end. The characters weren't developed enough I guess because the story had to be short. Both of them didn't make me like them. There were few funny, interesting moments but not enough to make me like this one.
Michele Sinclair - 3.5 stars
It was interesting and I might check to see how the rest of the series is. There were things that I found too rushed, explanations that didn't sit well with me.
I like this series and this one didn't disappoint me.
Jackie Ivie - 2 stars
I have mixed feelings about this one. The beginning was interesting, middle was so so and by the end I was bored and couldn't wait for it to end. The characters weren't developed enough I guess because the story had to be short. Both of them didn't make me like them. There were few funny, interesting moments but not enough to make me like this one.
Michele Sinclair - 3.5 stars
It was interesting and I might check to see how the rest of the series is. There were things that I found too rushed, explanations that didn't sit well with me.
January 5, 2013
Dark Embrace - Hannah Howell - This story opens with Raibeart return from a failed hunt for Lost Ones. On his way back he hears a woman being hunted by five men. He can't find a reason not to rescue her and notices something odd about her but can't put a finger on it. Eventually Una and Raibeart discover they have much in common. When she tells him of the people being held captive, he decides that he will get a rescue party together. Things work out alot better on this hunt.
A Knight Beyond Black - Jackie Ivy
The Guardian - Michele Sinclair
A Knight Beyond Black - Jackie Ivy
The Guardian - Michele Sinclair
August 13, 2016
I really need to stop reading these anthologies. The stories are apparently too short to give the author time to develop a decent plot or create interesting characters. The Howell story was kind of sweet, but it strongly reminded me of the story she wrote in the last Kensington anthology I read. The two other tales in this volume really weren't good enough to make an impression.
February 10, 2013
I really don't like reading short stories, but when it comes to Hannah Howell I have to at least give them a chance. And, as always, she didn't disappoint. Michelle Sinclair & Jackie Ivie are excellent writers and I believe that is the only reason I keep getting the books that Hannah has written with them.
March 7, 2013
I loved Hannah Howell's story. 5 Stars there.
The second one seemed ok to begin with but then just went in a direction that didn't appeal to me. I will pick the book up again after I read the next few books planned. Different day, different feelings.
The second one seemed ok to begin with but then just went in a direction that didn't appeal to me. I will pick the book up again after I read the next few books planned. Different day, different feelings.
September 15, 2011
The 1st 2 stories are awesome. Hannah Howell writes great paranormal romance. Her storie is a part of a series but you can read it as a stand alone. The 2nd storie was breath taking. I would love to read more of Jackie Ivie. I gave this 5 stars :)
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