The glittering world of high society is the playground for the rich, titled, and reluctantly undead...
Alec MacQuarrie's after-life has become an endless search for pleasure in an effort to overcome his heartbreak and despair. Wandering through the seedy world of London's demimonde, he's changed into a dark and fearsome creature even he doesn't recognize, until he stumbles into a magical lass he knew once upon a time and sees a glimpse of the life he could have had.
But the ton is no match for one incorrigible young lady...
After watching each of her coven sisters happily marry, Sorcha Ferguson is determined to capture a Lycan husband of her very own. When she encounters Alec, she decides to save her old friend from what he's become, all while searching for her own happily-ever-after.
Over his dead body is Alec going to allow this enchanting innocent to throw herself away on an unworthy werewolf, but that leaves him responsible for her, and he's the worst monster of them all.
Lydia Dare is the pseudonym for the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. Both are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and have sat on the organization's Board of Directors. Their writing process involves passing a manuscript back and forth, each one writing 1500 words after editing the other's previous installment. Jodie specializes in writing the history and Tammy in writing the paranormal. Both live near Raleigh, NC.
Never Been Bit was disappointing. It all starts because Sorcha wishes to marry a Lycan, and she'll stop at nothing to have one. Alec doesn't want Sorcha to lower herself that way and interrupts her in any way that he can. Obviously, those two have to be thrust together instead, but it'll never work out because Alec can never love and Sorcha wants a live man.
I really did not like Sorcha. I was very annoyed by her at the beginning of Never Been Bit. She spends several chapters talking about how she wants "a beast of her very own." Yes, she actually says that. Several times. It wasn't endearing at all, and I honestly didn't understand why she wanted to be with a Lycan so badly. She didn't even seem to know herself! She's just running around, throwing herself at any Lycan who crosses her path because she simply must marry one! Yeah, okay.
Never Been Bit also has a stupid fight which happens quite early on, causing me to mentally check out. Once again, Sorcha was being annoying. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say that she gets irrationally jealous, accuses Alec of things out of nowhere, then cries about how he doesn't love her. First of all, this situation wasn't his fault in the slightest. Secondly, she knew he didn't love her before all of this began! Plus, she knows that when a vampire does fall in love their heart starts beating again, and Alec was very much still dead. Then when he does fall for her and comes to life, she has no idea what's going on. I don't believe that for a second.
The only place I did really like Never Been Bit was in the middle. Sorcha saves Alec from a very awkward situation, starting up a fake relationship turned real kind of plot. It's a messy situation, but they're trying to make the best of it. Marrying Sorcha is certainly better than his alternative.
Never Been Bit simply didn't make sense to me. Neither love interest had any motivation for their actions. Sorcha is obsessed with marrying a Lycan and I don't know why. Alec was dead set on her not marrying a Lycan and I don't know why. Their fight was forced for the sake of drama and the ending made me roll my eyes. All in all, this is not a favorite series even though it has a wonderful premise.
This is the last book about the witches since they have all found love now. I always liked Sorcha, from the start when I met her in the Lycan series to this series. She always wanted what her friends got, a lycan of her own. And that is what she sets her sights on in this book, the Hadley brothers to be precise.
Sorcha is always so kind and sweet, and funny too. She has matured a lot during these books, but she still have that stubborn streak that makes her who she is. And when she want a lycan she wants a lycan. Because of who she is she might just be my favourite witch of them all. Alec then, well when I first met him he was running after Cait and was quite the fool. Then he became a vampyre and got all broody and sexy. He still thinks he will never find love again, but he still wants to protect Sorcha from the dogs. And these two together, well I am happy to see Alec find love and for Sorcha to finally fall in love. They do make a good couple.
When this series is finished I am happy that I know that there will be more. Another lycan trilogy with the bad boys of the ton. I can't wait. I do like Lydia Dare's books, they are fun, they are sweet and I like that there is more to come.
Even if you have not read this series you can still jump right in. Or start at the beginning of this series, or just go back and start with the Lycan one. If you want to read a cute paranormal historical then this might just do the trick. And if you have read the other books then you will surely like this one too.
Conclusion: A sweet ending to this vampire series. Just what I wanted.
มาถึงเล่มนี้แล้วค่ะ ซึ่งเล่มนี้เองแหละทำให้แม็กซ์เกิดแรงฮึดอ่านสองเล่มแรก นั่นเพราะคาแร็คเตอร์อเล็ค แม็คควอรีย์ ซึ่งเป็นพระรองอกหักมาจากเรื่อง The Taming of the Wolf ทำให้เราอยากรู้เรื่องของเขามาก
ตลอดทั้งซีรีย์ชุดนี้ คนแต่งย้ำหลายรอบมากว่า อเล็ก แม็คควอรีย์หลงรักเคทลินมากขนาดไหน (เคทลินเป็นนางเอกในเรื่อง The Taming of the Wolf ซึ่งเธอหักอกเขาไปหาหมาป่า) ในขณะที่ซอว์ชา เฟอร์กูสันฝันหวานมาตลอดว่า จะหาหมาป่าสักตัวมาเป็นคู่เชยชมให้ได้
ในขณะที่อเล็กก็อกหักไปตามระเบียบของพระรอง แถมยังถือว่าซวยไม่พอ เขาดันโผล่ไปในเรื่อง It Happened One Bite แล้วถูกแวมไพร์ทำร้ายปางตาย จนวิธีการเดียวที่ช่วยชีวิตเขาได้ก็คือ การเปลี่ยนเขาให้เป็นแวมไพร์ นั่นยิ่งกว่าเลวร้ายสำหรับเขา เพราะอเล็กไม่อาจยอมรับความจริงที่เปลี่ยนแปลงไปของตัวเองได้ เขาไม่ต้องการเป็นแวมไพร์ที่มีชีวิตนิรันดร์ แต่ต้องการเป็นคนปกติเท่านั้นเอง
Lydia Dare never fails to please. This is a wonderful fulfillment to our naughty Scottish witches that we have all come to love and cherish. This is a story that shows us that we don't always get what we want but do get what we need. True love in it's purest form.
Sorcha Ferguson is the youngest of the coven of Scottish witches and her wonderful gift is with nature. Just a encouraging whisper from her lips to a plant in need of TLC will have said plant spring up faster than hare running to it's bolt hole. Sorcha is the most easy going and less judgemental of the witches and her personality touches all whom she encounters. Will her easy going nature plunge her headlong into the arms of the wrong man or can Sophia save an innocent dear friend from a wronged evil?
Alec MacQuarrie is the poor sap who was head over heals in love with a witch who didn't love him back. Tall and handsome, timid and pure in life has him fall victim to an evil at the other end of the spectrum. His soul lost, his heart broken, will there be a redemption for a wayward lost being such as he? Will his chances of finding love ever pass his way again and if it does will he dare even hope that it can give him back the courage to go for it?
This is a story of what one hopes to come true only to do an about face and go exactly opposite. An adorable story of long friendships that had no possibility of anything more to become such a surprise that both characters really question their own sanity.
Alex is faced with a dreaded decision being thrown against him only to have Sorcha come to the rescue to save him by jeopardising her own reputation. One heartless scandal stopped only to reveal another scandal made of innocence, love, friendship and protectiveness. It only takes a whisper on the wind to bring the house of cards falling down all around them all. Can fate take the past, present and future and tie it up in one neat loving package or will innocence be damned for all eternity?
Here there be monsters in this third of Dare's Regency Vampyre trilogy ... ok well not really monsters, yes, vampires, werewolves and witches but they're the sexy gorgeous alpha male kind with the witches being the kind and funny type.
Alec, a life long friend to the witches' coven, was reborn a vampire at the end of book two of the series to save his life when a rogue vamp nearly ripped his throat out. Ever since he's been all 'woe is me, the world now sucks, literally, I'm a terrible parasite now and I don't have any hope because the love of my life married a werewolf, the drooling beast'. Until he meets up with the youngest of the witches for the first time in year. She's all grown up now but has the ridiculous goal of marrying a werewolf like two of her other coven sisters did, over his dead body!
Unpredictable, spontaneous and bold yet innocent Sorcha is the last of her coven to remain unmarried. She's bound and determined to find her a werewolf too. When she meets up with Alec while staying with friends in the country, she tries to bring him out of his funk while he thwarts her attempts to land herself a lycan husband. In the process she falls for Alec.
Dare once again has a unique solution to the problem of a non-immortal mating with immortal (well, long-lived actually).
This is a funny paranormal romance sure to please. Dare does a good job of writing this as a stand alone book for those unfamiliar with the series or the Regency Werewolves trilogy, from which this series is a spin off from, without boring fans who have read the both series in order.
I highly recommend both of Dare's paranormal romance trilogies.
This review is from: Never Been Bit (Kindle Edition) I was shocked that Alec and Sorcha's story was as good as it was. The first two were just bad and you could tell two people were trying to write one story. Alec is a vampire who's sire has turned human Sorcha is the last of the the five Coig Witches to marry. Alec hates himself because he is a vampire and he was depressed because his mentor and sire had turned human and married the Coig Witch that turned him human through love causing his heart to beat again. Alec thinks because his heart is dead he will never fall in love. When he was still human he had love another Coig Witch and was very hurt and disappointed when she married a Lycan. Sorcha is the youngest of the witches and has set her sights on looking for a Lycan husband. She wants one of her own. But she falls for and old friend and vampire. I really found myself liking Sorcha and Alec they had a very good romance. No love making but a little heavy petting until the very end. When they do make love its at the very end of the book after they are married and Alec turns human. This is the end of the series and I didn't realize with the first two books that this is written more for Teens/Young Adult. It is perfect for this age group, but if you are more mature adult you will want more in the loving making dept. especially in a PR series. I also, found that Never Been Bit was more cohesively written then the first two books in the series. Lydia Dare the pseudonym for the two authors Falkner and Pearson worked much better together in this book.
This cute at times, and yet still steamy and satisfying, conclusion to Dare's Gentlemen Vampire trilogy pairs the final undead gentlemen, Alec MacQuarrie, with the last unmated witchy Coig sister Sorchia (her other sisters found supernatural love in this series and in Dare's previous Regency werewolves).
I really liked Sorchia, who was very charming, and it is fun to watch this upbeat, irrepressible heroine, who starts out hunting a werewolf of her own, but ends up discovering that her seer coven 'sister' Cait may just be right and there may be fangs instead of fur in her future. Sorchia gets herself into mischief on her quest but for some reason her impulsiveness doesn't end up feeling like stupidity. I also liked how long time friends, Sorchia and Alec, become 'more' and that Sorchia truly bring light and life to the dark self-loathing filled existence that Alec has wallowed in since his turning.
But the icing on the cake in this one, is how past leading lady, Cait, sneakily pulls the strings to put these two - who both have denied her predictions and expounded their right to choose their own futures - together at just the right times to guarantee their happily ever after.
So, Never Been Bit ends up being a nice wrap up to the two stories, but leaves three rakish English werewolves - and I am guessing one immortal vampiress - in the wings, and I am hoping that there are more of these light and steamy regency paranormal romances yet to come.
The two characters in this story have each been in most, if not all, of the previous books which are separated into two series but are interconnected enough to be one. Read them all. Having done so, I'm familiar with Sorcha's vibrant, though innocent, personality. She deserved the very best that love could offer. The same was true of Alec. In previous books he was a man in love with a woman meant to be with someone else. His heartache was profound. So it was time for Alec to finally have his HEA. Because they each have a history in the previous books and with each other, AND I find the friends to lovers trope to be the most difficult to be convincing, this was a difficult story for me to believe in. I still struggled with the friends to lovers leap but was already completely invested in Alec and Sorcha that I decided to just let it go.
January 2018: Still feel the same about the "friends to lovers" leap but enjoyed the story nonetheless.
I can totally see why some people like this novel, but it just wasn't for me. My main issue was that unlike other romance novels, where you can pick up any book in the series and be fine, I felt that there was a lot of world building I missed out on by not reading the first two. I liked Alec enough, but Sorcha's accent read like low-born Irish rather than Scottish. I also didn't feel any danger- I was just told that all the men were dangerous. I missed the lycans from the Mercy Thompson or Sookie Stackhouse series.
Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone. (That's what I did.) It will take a little longer to get into the book and pick up the other storylines. The main storyline was good but mildly predictable. The female character lead to some funny scenes. I really enjoyed reading the book. It's a strong classic love story.
Éste para mí fue en definitiva el peor. La pareja protagonista era un poco dispareja, me dió la sensación que se buscó encajar a los dos que sobraban para cerrar el ciclo pero no salió muy bien. Punto positivo: la protagonista Sorcha, dulce pero pícara, un poco ingenua pero no tonta.
If I was a puppy, I’d be wagging my tail hard enough to knock someone down. I am excited to share the news that the youngest member of the Coig not only gets her man but the ending was simply delightful and so adorable, if it had cheeks, I’d pinch them.
Sorcha is the cute one. I’m not talking about in looks, though the hero is certainly smitten with them. I’m referring to her sunny personality. I have to give credit to Ms. Dare for her consistency. For me, that’s a major point because I’ve read many books where a reoccurring secondary character totally changes in personality, or dialogue or actions from what a reader was expecting as soon as they become the main focus. I do understand that the difference in perspective will alter the voice of the story somewhat, but I’ve been let down before – to the point where I wondered who I was reading about because certainly it’s not the same person. Ms. Dare had Sorcha be her regular, endearing and chipper self. Her innocent charm is intact and her enthusiasm for all things wolfie made me giggle numerous times. Being upbeat and an eternal optimist doesn’t mean Sorcha is a ditz, or daft or weak. She has a temper, she has courage and she has determination. She’s also intuitive at times which takes her fellow characters by surprise at interesting points in the tale.
The most entertaining element of Never Been Bit is the romance. Sorcha and Alec have known each other all their lives. They see with eyes of the past and their roles in it. But a lot has changed over the years. Both Sorcha and Alec have experienced things that made them grow up, be aware of the wider world and take a stand on certain issues, all while setting goals for their lives. The one thing they both wanted and thought unattainable ended up being found in the depths of their own hearts – in each other.
That whole process of cluelessness, awakening and then pursuit was alternately heartbreaking, hopeful and many times hilarious. Okay, a lot of it was hysterical. I had the best time reading this book because they truly were great together. I loved their dialogue with each other, the plots and plans and the things that went awry. I enjoyed watching their feelings stir and their passions flare. And I got the greatest kick out of Caitlin, one of the heroine’s best friends, and her machinations to interfere but not actually interfering. It was a delicate dance of friendship that drove Sorcha nuts. She knew that Caitlin knew something but couldn’t get a hint out of her. But you know what they say, actions speak louder than words and I’m not saying a peep more.
Unlike the previous books in the series, the main conflict and the only one that mattered was getting Sorcha and Alec together. They were their own worst enemies. The culmination was like a family reunion. Hurts were soothed, friendships were strengthened and/or renewed and a most wonderful and heartwarming happily ever after unfolded to my immense delight. There were even some unexpected surprises that tickled my fancy that made the book so much richer and well rounded. The editing was perfect, the dialogue thoroughly entertaining and the characters, both main and secondary, are great together, giving the tale a robust and natural feel to it.
Never Been Bit is saucy and dazzling with a sweet romance full of fun culminating in a sigh-worthy happily ever after. I can’t think of a better book to recommend to my friends because it’s so full of love and laughter. Of all the stories about the women of the Ciog, Sorcha’s romance is the one I liked best. I was so thrilled with Alec’s redemption and awakening. I enjoyed the heroine’s adorable quirks and her charming schemes. I think the hero and heroine make a wonderful couple and I believe the happy ever after to be a strong and solid one. My satisfaction is due to the talents of the author. Ms. Dare has written another winner and I couldn’t be happier. Readers of paranormal romance or romance in general are in for a treat because it’s just that good.
This is my first time reading a Lydia Dare book and I have to say it will not be my last. Once again, an author has shown me that you can place witches, vampires and lycans together and have harmony flow from the pages. I was a bit skeptical in the beginning only because it seemed to take forever for the hero to meet up with the heroine.
Alec "Sexy as Sin" McQuarrie. Yep that's what I dubbed him. I loved his character. I loved how he was so full of angst because of what had happened to him. Being changed from human to Vampire. Feeling through him, the deep sense of loss and despair was interesting. Having lost the woman he felt he loved and who belonged to him, Alec was just literally the walking dead. Yet at the same time his soul was crying out, who would step into his line of view but a woman whom he hadn't realized was all grown up.
Sorcha Ferguson. What a wonderfully willful woman. She knew what she wanted and wasn't shy about getting it. And once the little witch makes up her mind, the little witch gets what she wants.
Now, sweet dear Sorcha figured that she wanted a Lycan to love and no one would stand in her way of getting said Lycan. So when she sets it in her mind that she will do just that, the lovely Miss Ferguson pulls out all the stops. Little does she know she has a protector in an old friend in the form of the moody yet delectable Alec. It was quite fun to come across the myriad of characters that Lydia Dare created. From lycan, to witch, human and vampire, I loved all the characters and I do hope to be able to have the privilege of reading more of Lydia Dare's creative works. This is definitely a must read and a keeper. The ending will make you want to cry and cheer all at the same time.
As far as spiciness goes, it is different from what I am used to reading lately. Yes, it is a bit on the tame side. But do not let that dissuade you. This reminds me of the romance books of old that I read when I was a lot younger. But the book does have a spiciness of its own and will keep you moving through the pages and leave you satisfied. I love the old regency feeling from this book and the characters, and I am sure you will too. I love this falling in love type of story. It brought me back to my roots and to the things I first loved about reading romance books. Thank you, Lydia Dare!
Five stars given for wonderful characters and most excellent of plots.
I really enjoyed this last book in the Regency Vampyre Trilogy. Throughout the other books I've always liked Alec and wondered how he would come out of his shell after being heartbroken over Cait. I think Lydia Dare did an awesome job with the story overall and the relationship between him and Sorcha.
Sorcha I loved. She was probably my favorite female from this series. She's just this sweet yet daring girl, but at the same time she's quite innocent too. It made for a good mixture and I could definitely see why Alec would fall for her. Alec I loved as well. I wasn't sure if his character would be a little too hard-hearted because of his history, but I thought he was written really well.
There are a couple things I wasn't a big fan of throughout the trilogy:
1) First off, as I've mentioned in my other reviews for the first two, I'm not a big fan of the vampire turned human thing. It feels just backwards to me. I usually like it better when the non-vampire somehow becomes immortal instead. It is sweet though that falling in love causes their hearts to start beating, and the fact that they can't have children as vampires kind of changes that. But in general I'm not big fan of this kind of ending.
2) I also thought there could've been a little more action going on. These books mostly focus on the romance itself, and other than the first book having a bit of a villain, there aren't really any outside conflicts going on. I think it would have made things more interesting, but at the same time this particular book (and the first one), I still found pretty entertaining despite that.
Overall, I really liked this book. After being a bit disappointed with In the Heat of the Bite, I'm glad to see that this is back up to par with It Happened One Bite. Now I just can't wait for the next werewolf series she's putting out about Radbourne and his brothers. I've really liked him in these books and can't wait to get to know his brothers more too! But before that, I think I'm going to go back and read the Westfield Wolves series because there were definitely moments where I would have appreciated already having read about those romances in these books. If you're thinking about starting this series I would recommend reading those as well because there are some crossovers. It's not absolutely necessary and you'll follow the storylines just fine, but I think it would add more to the story too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
To get completely lost in a story, feel as though you know the characters, and want to be a part of their world to me says the writer has done a wonderful job.
Author Lydia Dare has done that with her Regency Vampyre series and the latest installment, NEVER BEEN BIT, is a great example.
The storyline moves along smoothly, placing the reader in Kent in 1817. While the language may take a bit of getting use to for those new to the series, it is an essential element of the story adding flavor.
Young Sorcha Ferguson is the only member of her coven that remains unmarried. Since meeting her first Lycan, the incorrigible witch has been determined to have a werewolf for a husband. She heads to the Duchess of Hythe’s house party in hopes of finding her very own Lycan.
Alex McQuarrie had come close to dying once and been brought back among the living as an undead, a vampyre. Nothing really matters to Alex anymore, his heart had already been scattered when his true love, Caitrin MacLeod, married Dashiel Thorpe, one of those beastly Lycans. Alex is surprised to see Sorcha at the Duchess’ party. He becomes determined that he’ll not let his childhood friend get mixed up with the likes of Lycans no matter what she thinks she wants.
The journey the pair take from there is filled with laughter, frustration (for them), and sizzling sparks. As the emotions they feel begin to grow and change, the reader is drawn further and further into their world wanting to help the pair connect.
NEVER BEEN BIT is an enjoyable read filled with romance, humor and the understanding that love is what matters regardless of the circumstances. Author Lydia Dare has created a world where witches, vampyres, werewolves and humans all live together in a seemingly plausible reality.
This is the third installment in the Regency Vampyre series, but is a stand alone read. There is enough background for those new to the series not to be lost when references are made while at the same time reminding returning fans of the fun adventures prior to this one.
FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
What immediately drew me to this book was its bright and cheesy cover. I was so caught up in the reunion at the top that I did not even notice the castle underneath them and so I went into the book thinking it was set in Las Vegas (I don't know how to explain this other than the title which seems ahistorical...not that that would be a silver bullet to a rather good read).
Sorcha, a flower witch, has the hots for werewolves. This desire is left without explanation and quickly turns over into a lust for an old childhood friend turned vampire, Alec.
What I grew to like about this book is the subtle way (some might say nonexistent) it treats the supernatural. Sorcha gets to play plenty of party tricks with her vines and flowers but not a single werewolf undergoes a transformation and the best that the sole vampire can do is sup on goat's blood.
To get around these limitations, the book harps on the Lycan's incredible smell capabilities (some might say too much) and the vampire's inability to eat real food (quite a detriment in a society which is so hell-bent on manner and custom).
An early hiccup to my enjoyment of this book was Sorcha's Scottish accent. It is written garishly and reeked havoc on my eyes for the first hundred pages then I grew acclimated to it then I began to like it especially the (over)use of the word, kent.
What items this book chooses to harp on, it does a plenty whether it be stomachs falling to toes or the smell of apple blossoms. Many people might get annoyed after the eleventh time such tropes are employed. I, on the other hand, was pleased and would have preferred an extended meditation on the reason apple blossom meant so much to our titular character and what were the deep psychological effects of apple blossom on the werewolves of this book.
I have not read any other books in this series as you probably already know but this one especially benefits from having not read any. I think the game of ketchup that we are perpetually made to play is delightful. The best parts of this book are where it concludes and we are forced to jump-off. I would have preferred an extended digression on the butcher shop or Sorcha's ability to rouse dying flowers (I won't even go into the symbolism there).
Never Been Bit was the best story in this series, in my opinion. Unlike the last book In the Heat of the Bite I felt this one really focused on the main couple and their relationship. This is probably my favorite story in the trilogy because I absolutely adore Sorcha (she is certainly my favorite witch of the coven). I also enjoyed the focus on the relationship in this book. This book doesn't have a great deal of outside conflict (there was a little), I didn't mind this because the internal conflict was quite enough to drive me a little nuts.
Sorcha, I loved. Alec - eh, not so much. I felt for the guy but after reading so much about his woe-is-me, self-pity, self-recrimination (and more recently self-destructive views) in the last two books (not counting this one) it's a bit much - there were times I just wanted to smack him. And don't get me started on his obsession with Cait (though that does wane in this book - as the story get's going) and how he was never going to love again attitude. Sorcha, though made up for Alec's broody, angst-ridden self-hate/self-pity. Sorcha is so alive - she throws herself fully into what she's doing with such great positive energy. She's charming, caring, charismatic, clever (I loved that scene with the vines and Alec's unwanted guest) and happy - but she won't let herself be treated badly or walked over (which I appreciated). I was rooting for Sorcha the whole way and was glad when she (and Alec) finally got to their happy ending.
Overall, a very satisfying, and entertaining wrap up to this trilogy. 4 Stars.
Out of all the Lydia Dare books this is my second favorite one, but my favorite when it comes to Gentleman Vampire series. I absolutely loved this story, so without further ado here's Never Been Bit and what makes it so great.
Every since we were first introduce to Sorcha Ferguson, in Tall, Dark and Wolfish she has always been described as a wood sprite. Which is fitting since she's the witch that has the power to work with plants. I know you're thinking, what's so great about that? Just ask a couple of her recipients of the damage that can be done. Overall, she's a sweet, kind and caring witch that is sensitive to everyones needs. One can say that she is soft hearted. Ever since she's met a couple of her fellow witch's husband that were Lycan, Sorcha has set out to capture one of her own. After all she has no problem with there drool and tails.
Now Alec MacQuarrie tends to have a grim out look on life since becoming a vampire. Alec has no desire to socialize with proper society since he lost Caitrin Macleod to a mangy flea-bag (his words not mine). Yet, somehow he's invited to the Duchess of Hythe. Once he arrives he hears what Sorcha has plan. Let's just say he wasn't too please to hear that. So, Alec sets out to stop her from making the biggest mistake of her life.
As I said at the beginning I love this book, and I think a lot of it has to do with the previous books. I mean you watch Sorcha grow so much in the previous stories. Granted they're not focus on her, but she's always in the background. Plus, she has so much love for everyone, you cannot help but love her. I love how she can look at Alec and see more than just a vampire.
So, you know where I stand on this book: LOVED IT! I mean, I laughed and I cried. Overall great book. Seriously, worth the read. Especially, when you have a dark vampire and a sunny witch. I mean opposites attract and they certainly do in this story. So, go out and have some fun while you read.
Series note: Alec's backstory would be better appreciated by reading the series in order - The Regency Vampyres should be read after book #4 but before book #5 in the Westfield Wolves series.
An entertaining read but overall the third installment follows the same formula as the first two and there is nothing really special about it.
Sorcha is my least favorite of the five Coig witches. Throughout the series she comes across as a frivolous twit and she is exactly the same at the beginning of this book with her attempts to "snag" a Lycan. She does mature somewhat as the story progresses and her loyalty and sweet nature are endearing.
Alec has been an intriguing character since his first introduction in Tall, Dark and Wolfish, and he becomes even more so once he is turned into a sexy, broody and tortured vampire. He has known Sorcha her entire life and is suddenly astounded to discover that she is no longer a pretty girl but a beautiful woman who makes him appreciate life once more.
Alec and Sorcha are a cute couple but their attraction is not that believable. Alec realizes rather quickly that he is no longer in love with Cait and Sorcha relinquishes her dream of "having a Lycan of her very own" in a heartbeat. There is an underlying feeling that although they suit each other to a tee, they are both settling for second best.
Moreover, the conflict involving Alec's past "acquaintances" is introduced too late in the story and glossed over very quickly - it never evolves into serious threat to their relationship.
The series continues with the Hadley brothers and as my general preference is for Werewolves over Vampires, I am looking forward to reading the stories of these Lycan rogues.
I have been looking forward to reading Never Been Bit ever since the dramatic conclusion of It Happened One Bite when Alec was transformed into a vampyre. It was done to save his life; however Alec found little happiness in continuing forward without hope and love in his life. Alec spent years pining for Cait, only to have her marry another so now he feels he has no chance of ever becoming human again like others of his kind. (A vampyre that finds true love will become human.) Sorcha, on the other hand, is a sweet and innocent young thing. She has spirit and determination and causes those around her to smile and enjoy life a bit more.
As someone who has read the series, I have to say I was a bit put off by how badly Alec had changed. The introduction of Delia, Browning and Tillie (associates from the “gentlemen’s club”) seemed almost contrived to create conflict for Alec and Sorcha. However, I was able to look past it, even when Delia was found in Alec’s bed. I was also frustrated with Alec’s continued disbelief that he would never find love. The author did a good job of building his case, but maybe it’s just the hopeless romantic in me - I felt that once he realized he didn’t love Cait, that he would have hope for himself.
Overall, the story was entertaining and a fitting conclusion for the series. And I am hopeful for more stories based on the ending of Never Been Bit (which was adorable and I enjoyed it!)
First thoughts after I finished: "I want a vampire like Alec! "
"Ever since Sorcha Ferguson had met her first Lycan, she'd been determined to have one for her very own." [p. 1]
That first sentence totally drew me into the story and I knew right away that Sorcha was going to be a cheeky lass that I would like very much. This is the final installment in the Regency Vampire series and it was a perfect way to finish the vampire's tales. I loved the setting, characters, and the entire story. I think out of all of the vampires I found myself loving Alec the best. He had that vulnerable side to him and he let his guard down more than once with Sorcha. I enjoyed how she had her heart set on "owning" a lycan (werewolf) ...it cracks me up to think she really wanted a wolf and not exactly the man! But I can't blame her there, as I certainly love my dogs by my side and the added benefits of them over let's say.....my husband! (they can't talk, have very few demands, and making dinner for the dogs is very easy!)
Recommend? Easily! This is a fun, engaging, and well-written romance trilogy. If you're looking for a book where you can just kick back, relax and let your imagination take over, then this one fits the bill!!!
Book One: It Happened One Bite- my review Book Two: In the Heat of the Bite- my review
"Never Been Bit" was my favorite book by this author yet. All of the characters, the leads and the secondary characters, were really developed here. I really believed Alec and Sorcha's love story.
I was already a fan of Alec and Sorcha from the previous books in the series. They are such a contrast in good and bad. Sorcha was almost annoyingly good, and Alec had become very bad since being turned into a vampire. I almost wanted the authors to address more about how "bad" Alec had become because his personality seemed to be much darker in the previous book.
The secondary characters are so much fun to read about in this installment. Most of the characters have had their own books in the series, and it seemed like everyone had returned for this book. The characters and authors poke fun at the supporting players, often pointing out their flaws for a friendly laugh.
I love the paranormal element in the book because it never gets to violent or crass. I like supernatural elements in stories, but most non-YA paranormal romance is too harsh for me. This is the perfect amount of paranormal for my tastes.
A fun, romantic historical with a cast of funny and heartfelt characters. Lydia Dare's best book yet!
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
This book was pretty much everything I needed to escape reality when I picked it up. A fairly low angst factor (Alec had some issues, but never anything that felt like it was going to drown a person, you know?) coupled with a heroine who REALLY couldn't see the effect she had on those around her (namely the males who were all smitten with her carefree nature and innate happiness) made it the type of light, fun read I like to lounge around with on the weekends. Well played, book. Well played.
Admittedly, Alec had some hangups about his vampyric state. Namely, he hated it and didn't think he was worthy of loving anyone, blah, blah, blah. Spoiler: he was worthy. He just had to figure that out. Sorcha is sweetly clueless about her effect on men, which led to some amusing moments. She also had a tendency to throw herself whole-heartedly into every scheme that crossed her mind, no matter how it might reflect back on her. She was fun.
Loyal, too. As soon as she starts feeling things for Alec, she includes him in the group of people she'd do anything to protect. Did I mention she's a witch? Yeah. So she has the ability to cause both mischief and mayhem without much effort on her part.
I needed something light and easy and I got it. Which makes this one a win for me.
The formula used in It Happened One Bite and In the Heat of the Bite became a little predictible, so I was skeptical when I learned Alex McQuarrie, a recently turned vampire, would be the hero of Never Been Bit. But to see Sorcha Ferguson, the youngest and spunkiest member of the coven as the heroine -- well, I never imagined that.
Ever since witch Elspeth Campbell married lycan Benjamin Westfield, Sorcha has been wishing for a lycan of her very own. She doesn't understand the hows and whys, or why seer Caitrin Thorpe won't confirm a lycan in her future, but that's not going to slow her down. There are plenty of available lycans to chose from; she only has to make her decision and stick to it.
Alex McQuarrie dislikes his life as a vampire. He chose it over certain death but regrets it for many reasons, chief among them a lack of love or a happy future. When he discovers Sorcha is on the hunt for a lycan mate, he reacts with surprising jealousy. This is Sorcha; he's known her almost their entire lives!
Sorcha's and Alex's is an unexpected romance, a true friends-to-lovers journey, and is perhaps the sweetest of the love stories shared within this series. Never Been Bit is a great way to end the series with a high note.
I knew from the moment Alec and Sorcha were introduced that I would love them and even better when they're together. Its not often that I love a story where there is no lurking danger but with these two characters together its hard not to love them. They're story is all the better for it because they carry the plot so well that nothing like that is needed. The two are such perfect foils for each other with Sorcha's light fun to Alec's darker seriousness and for Sorcha to bring the old Alec back into the world of the living. Try as he might Alec can't resist her for long and I love that he tries. I always enjoy couples that share a history even more so one that never included romance but just friendship, it makes the growth believable and their past together makes their romance even more touching. My only problem was that some of the old alec was lost such as the love of academics, espeically history. Yet, the humor that he usually brought with him in the other books was rekindled by Sorcha.
A great read with lovable and adorable characters with a romance a long time in the making. I loved it.
I enjoyed the novel. My only gripe is that the relationship felt sorta fast at the beginning, given that Alec switched from a different point of view about Sorcha. I just felt that there should be a bit more details or such that makes it more smooth for the transition between Alec's changes in seeing Sorcha from a girl to a woman. Not that the few months from the ending of In the Heat of the Bite to this novel didn't help, but it just felt too fast when this novel began.
Other than that in my skimmed-through reading, I enjoyed the novel very much. I wanted Alec to have his HEA so bad, after what he went through since his introduction, and Sorcha is a delightful female, so the pairing is compatible, from reading the book. I enjoyed the secondary characters and knowing more about the coven of witches.
I plan to read this novel thoroughly in the future. I may end up putting a revised review at that time, so we'll see.
Once again Lydia Dare has entertained me immensely. I reviewed In the Heat of the Bite earlier this year and was thrilled to get a chance to check out this book as well.
The author has continued her hot streak with Alec and Sorcha. Alec is a gentlemanly vampire who has known the fiery witch Sorcha all of her life. When she announces that she is determined to ensnare a Lycan for her husband, Alec goes into protection overdrive. The story that follows is hilarious, romantic and fun.
Ms. Dare has a knack for creating characters that make you laugh and root for their success. I love the fact that she has storylines occurring in the background the entire time. The machinations of some of the secondary characters is fascinating.
This is a fun series with stories that stand well on their own but also make great additions to the entire collection. I'm looking forward to the next Regency vampire story and to reading more about the wolfy men of her companion Lycan series.