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Bonded By Blood Vampire Chronicles #1
Midnight Conquest
Alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here
Masked in a Gypsy guise, Broderick MacDougal hides his vampiric identity while seeking to destroy the man who slaughtered his family. When an old Clan rival ensnares Broderick in a trap using an enticing widow, he is compelled to discover if she is bait or an accomplice, and the cinnamon-haired beauty is his next conquest.
Widow of an abusive husband, Davina Stewart-Russell clings to the only image that gave her strength during those dark times—the Gypsy rogue who stole her heart as a youth. After nine years, she is finally face-to-face with him again, but reality clashes with fantasy as she is confronted with Broderick’s passionate pursuit.
When Davina’s past returns to haunt her, Broderick is forced to reveal a dark secret worse than anything Davina thought possible. The challenge before them has fatal risks and neither of them is prepared for the sacrifices expected for the sake of eternal love.
Reader Advisory: This story contains explicit love scenes, described using graphic and direct language. This story also contains explicit, nail-biting scenes of violence and domestic abuse. (Don’t worry…the bad guys get it in the end!)
Masked in a Gypsy guise, Broderick MacDougal hides his vampiric identity while seeking to destroy the man who slaughtered his family. When an old Clan rival ensnares Broderick in a trap using an enticing widow, he is compelled to discover if she is bait or an accomplice, and the cinnamon-haired beauty is his next conquest.
Widow of an abusive husband, Davina Stewart-Russell clings to the only image that gave her strength during those dark times—the Gypsy rogue who stole her heart as a youth. After nine years, she is finally face-to-face with him again, but reality clashes with fantasy as she is confronted with Broderick’s passionate pursuit.
When Davina’s past returns to haunt her, Broderick is forced to reveal a dark secret worse than anything Davina thought possible. The challenge before them has fatal risks and neither of them is prepared for the sacrifices expected for the sake of eternal love.
Reader Advisory: This story contains explicit love scenes, described using graphic and direct language. This story also contains explicit, nail-biting scenes of violence and domestic abuse. (Don’t worry…the bad guys get it in the end!)
Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2011
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About the author
Arial Burnz
26 books334 followersI'm a huge fan of fantasy and paranormal books, especially if they have strong romantic elements. Review copies of my novels are available upon request.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
June 25, 2011
What can I say? I love my own book! ;)
March 4, 2012
Um...holy crap? This first in the Bonded by Blood Vampire Chronicles by Ms. Burnz is OUTSTANDING! I fell so in love with Broderick, I walked around the house FOR DAYS just day-dreaming about the guy. What a great, great hero. And the villian? At times I wanted to reach inside the book and throttle him around the neck! Beautiful love story that spans the life of the heroine, as she battle an abusive husband, the motherly obligation of protecting her child, and a deep emotional connection to a mysterious vampire that captured her heart as a young girl. Oh...and for those of you that love a prophecy, get ready. I can't WAIT to read the second in the series to find out how this all plays out. Kudos to Ms. Burnz for snaring my attention body, mind and soul!
August 16, 2013
When reading an Adult-oriented paranormal romance, I expect the following:
1. World-building (***)
2. Likeable hero (*****)
3. Likeable heroine (****)
4. Realistic villain(s) (**)
5. Plausible system of magic (****)
6. 'Literary' style of writing (****)
7. Secondary characters (****)
8. Romance (****)
9. Hot sex (****)
10. Realistic plot (***)
10. Pacing (**)
11. Editing (**)
12. Grammar (***)
13. Bad writing habits (*)
14. Met expectations (happily ever after) (****)
I really wanted to round this book up to 4-stars because, in the end I enjoyed it and do not consider the $.99 cents I paid for it to be a waste of money. I am sympathetic to the budget constraints imposed upon Indie authors when it comes to the cost-benefit payoff to hire a professional editor or how hard it can be to find beta-readers who give you their HONEST opinion and not tell you what you want to hear. However, this book really needs another pass through a shark-pit of fellow critique-writers who will tear it apart and make it bleed red ink. Since this is the first book in the series and also the advertisement which will encourage readers to purchase subsequent books, I do hope the author will consider doing just that.
Things that knocked me out of the story:
1. Info dumps. The first chapter should really be pared down to a short, 1-2 page peek into how the hero got where he is now. The rest should be woven in later.
2. More info dumps. The second chapter where we first meet our young heroine could have been charming, but once again it was bloated down with too much backstory that should be woven in later. Had this not been the Lovers of Paranormal 'Book of the Month' I would have given up at this point.
3. Misguided attempt at removing 'he said' 'she said' attributions in early chapters. Yeah ... I know this is all the vogue in MFA classes, but if you ever try reading this aloud it is jarring. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. My suggestion is to read it aloud as though you are on stage and, if you find yourself pausing because your physical action hasn't yet caught up with your words -or- your tongue trips as you move from dialogue to movement, put the attribution back in. If not, it's probably fine out.
4. The secondary bad guy's purpose in the story just didn't add up. It did at first ... his jerkiness made me sympathetic to the heroine and her plight is when the story finally clicked (which is why it was not a DNF after the first two chapters), but once he was dead, I would have liked it if he -stayed- dead. Or ... he somehow furthered the primary bad guy's agenda. Or ... he was a mechanism for keeping the reader aware of the overarching series-threat introduced in the first chapter. But he only had one duty and, in the end, it made the book suffer from TMV Syndrome (Too Many Villains).
5. More info dump. The whole 'staring at the tablets' 'this is the heroes family' thing ... could have been pared down to something brief and said in conversation.
5. The primary bad guys rationale du hatred just never made sense. We were in his head enough times that we should have caught glimpses of this before the big reveal.
6. I suffered whiplash when the heroine gets back from Threat #1 and, all of a sudden, she's in the grip of Threat #2 and I'm not certain how she got there. Agh! This was the Big Moment! When the heroine meets Ultimate Evil for the first time!
7. The Gypsies. French Gypsies. Spanish Gitano. English/Scottish 'Travelers.' They were completely inaccurately typecast in this story. The Romani people speak their own, secret language amongst themselves (Roma) so that no matter where they travel in the world, they can understand one another. They are NOT promiscuous, contrary to popular belief, and would be hostile to a promiscuous Scottish girl flitting in and out of their camp to bed one of their men. Virginity is a prized trait, so Veronique would not offer it so lightly. Most women are married off at age 13 or 14, and even to this day many who still adhere to the old lifestyle are married before the age of 17. They also have elaborate 'purity rituals' straight out of the Book of Leveticus which were not mentioned at all.
8. Over-arching series plot: See note on secondary bad guy. It has to be woven in thoughtfully from beginning to end, not just added as an after-thought.
Overall I think this series has promise, but the first book has some serious issues that need fixing before I would feel comfortable recommending the series to other readers. I would consider updating this review should the author edit/update the book to fix some of the most glaring issues.
This book was purchased via Smashwords and read as part of the Goodreads Lovers of Paranormal Group-Read for the month of August.
1. World-building (***)
2. Likeable hero (*****)
3. Likeable heroine (****)
4. Realistic villain(s) (**)
5. Plausible system of magic (****)
6. 'Literary' style of writing (****)
7. Secondary characters (****)
8. Romance (****)
9. Hot sex (****)
10. Realistic plot (***)
10. Pacing (**)
11. Editing (**)
12. Grammar (***)
13. Bad writing habits (*)
14. Met expectations (happily ever after) (****)
I really wanted to round this book up to 4-stars because, in the end I enjoyed it and do not consider the $.99 cents I paid for it to be a waste of money. I am sympathetic to the budget constraints imposed upon Indie authors when it comes to the cost-benefit payoff to hire a professional editor or how hard it can be to find beta-readers who give you their HONEST opinion and not tell you what you want to hear. However, this book really needs another pass through a shark-pit of fellow critique-writers who will tear it apart and make it bleed red ink. Since this is the first book in the series and also the advertisement which will encourage readers to purchase subsequent books, I do hope the author will consider doing just that.
Things that knocked me out of the story:
1. Info dumps. The first chapter should really be pared down to a short, 1-2 page peek into how the hero got where he is now. The rest should be woven in later.
2. More info dumps. The second chapter where we first meet our young heroine could have been charming, but once again it was bloated down with too much backstory that should be woven in later. Had this not been the Lovers of Paranormal 'Book of the Month' I would have given up at this point.
3. Misguided attempt at removing 'he said' 'she said' attributions in early chapters. Yeah ... I know this is all the vogue in MFA classes, but if you ever try reading this aloud it is jarring. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. My suggestion is to read it aloud as though you are on stage and, if you find yourself pausing because your physical action hasn't yet caught up with your words -or- your tongue trips as you move from dialogue to movement, put the attribution back in. If not, it's probably fine out.
4. The secondary bad guy's purpose in the story just didn't add up. It did at first ... his jerkiness made me sympathetic to the heroine and her plight is when the story finally clicked (which is why it was not a DNF after the first two chapters), but once he was dead, I would have liked it if he -stayed- dead. Or ... he somehow furthered the primary bad guy's agenda. Or ... he was a mechanism for keeping the reader aware of the overarching series-threat introduced in the first chapter. But he only had one duty and, in the end, it made the book suffer from TMV Syndrome (Too Many Villains).
5. More info dump. The whole 'staring at the tablets' 'this is the heroes family' thing ... could have been pared down to something brief and said in conversation.
5. The primary bad guys rationale du hatred just never made sense. We were in his head enough times that we should have caught glimpses of this before the big reveal.
6. I suffered whiplash when the heroine gets back from Threat #1 and, all of a sudden, she's in the grip of Threat #2 and I'm not certain how she got there. Agh! This was the Big Moment! When the heroine meets Ultimate Evil for the first time!
7. The Gypsies. French Gypsies. Spanish Gitano. English/Scottish 'Travelers.' They were completely inaccurately typecast in this story. The Romani people speak their own, secret language amongst themselves (Roma) so that no matter where they travel in the world, they can understand one another. They are NOT promiscuous, contrary to popular belief, and would be hostile to a promiscuous Scottish girl flitting in and out of their camp to bed one of their men. Virginity is a prized trait, so Veronique would not offer it so lightly. Most women are married off at age 13 or 14, and even to this day many who still adhere to the old lifestyle are married before the age of 17. They also have elaborate 'purity rituals' straight out of the Book of Leveticus which were not mentioned at all.
8. Over-arching series plot: See note on secondary bad guy. It has to be woven in thoughtfully from beginning to end, not just added as an after-thought.
Overall I think this series has promise, but the first book has some serious issues that need fixing before I would feel comfortable recommending the series to other readers. I would consider updating this review should the author edit/update the book to fix some of the most glaring issues.
This book was purchased via Smashwords and read as part of the Goodreads Lovers of Paranormal Group-Read for the month of August.
August 27, 2013
I had the opportunity to read this book as part of a review group. It is a historical vampire paranormal read. To be honest historical reads are not my thing but I was really intrigued by the synopis of the book as well as the author's adding vampires to the mix. In this story Broderick is made a vampire due to a long standy feud with a family enemy. Davina is a woman who has been a victim of domestic violence. They first meet when she is 13 and she is instintly smitten with him. Years later they meet again but this time Broderick thinks she may be part of a plan to harm him. A relationship develops between the two but it is a rocky road and they both have many issues of anger, hurt, etc to over come.
I felt this was a really solid first book to a series. I think it is important to note it is a first book in a series because often they have to devote time to the world building. This world was a little confusing to me at first and I found the first few chapters slow going. Once it took off it sped right along. I enjoyed the characters with all their heroics and all their faults. I loved that the author tackled an issues like domestic violence and didn't sugar coat it or gloss over it. Another thing I really liked was how long this book was. It's just a personal preference but the trend of novellas and short books really bugs me. I hate them. I want good world building, a chance to really get to know the characters. I think this author did a great job of doing that for us. There are currently two more books in this series and I will definately be reading them.
***book provided by the Author through PNR NaUBA group Author/Reader Exchange for an honest review***(less)
I felt this was a really solid first book to a series. I think it is important to note it is a first book in a series because often they have to devote time to the world building. This world was a little confusing to me at first and I found the first few chapters slow going. Once it took off it sped right along. I enjoyed the characters with all their heroics and all their faults. I loved that the author tackled an issues like domestic violence and didn't sugar coat it or gloss over it. Another thing I really liked was how long this book was. It's just a personal preference but the trend of novellas and short books really bugs me. I hate them. I want good world building, a chance to really get to know the characters. I think this author did a great job of doing that for us. There are currently two more books in this series and I will definately be reading them.
***book provided by the Author through PNR NaUBA group Author/Reader Exchange for an honest review***(less)
May 21, 2020
Of course I loved my own book! But I'm posting this for tutorial purposes. Thank you!
February 24, 2012
Have you ever read a book and thought, if this person doesn't get a happy ever after I'm going to throw this book across the room and never read this author again? Yeah, me too. And that's how I felt during this book. The author really made you feel so much compassion that I thought to myself, where is the line between character building and too much drama? But I came to the realization that such character building makes the happily ever after that much sweeter. It also explains the connection between Davina and Broderick. Davina had her very own romantic hero when she met Broderick and she kept that vision to see her through very dark times. I did find her behavior odd when they met again, I mean who wouldn't want a sexy, flirty, gorgeous gypsy vampire? Where can I sign up for one? I also thought the story arc that will cross through the series is a fun twist. On a side note, even though the author gives a disclaimer in regards to the accuracy of the language for the time period, it was a little odd to read current slang terms. Overall great read and I am excited for the next in the series.
--Brandi, The One Hundred Romances Project
--Brandi, The One Hundred Romances Project
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2014
While it starts off slow and rambles at times with confusing storytelling and uneven pacing, a satisfying conclusion balances out the novel, which suffers from being the first book in a new series.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2013 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 4, 2015
REVIEW UPDATE! I JUST HAD THE PLEASURE OF LISTENING TO MIDNIGHT CONQUEST ON AN AUDIO BOOK! ALL I CAN SAY IS: UM...HOLY CRAP-AGAIN! WHAT AN EXPERIENCE! 5 STARS FOR GREAT STORYTELLING!
I don’t normally read any reviews before writing my own, but one caught my eye and pretty much reflected my exact thoughts: Um…holy crap? (Thanks, A.J.) Talk about historical/paranormal/romantic bliss wrapped in dark intrigue! Midnight Conquest by Arial Burnz sent me back to a time and place where superstitions and myths can become reality, gypsies have “the sight,” and two souls can find bone deep love that will last an eternity.
Davina meets the man she feels sure she is destined to love as a child, but there is more to Broderick than his handsome appearance, much more and soon he is gone. The years go by, Davina has married an abusive man, had his child and freed herself from his brutal clutches. Broderick comes back into her life, and although they have both changed, their hearts have not. But will loving Davina put her in danger from an ancient enemy out to destroy Broderick? Will she accept who and what he is?
Arial Burnz rocked my world with the attention to detail she uses to set her stage for this dark and often edgy romance. Her characters are simply amazing, from the old gypsy woman to the brutal and vindictive vampsyrian out to bring Broderick to his knees before ending his immortal life. Davina hasn’t let her life bury her in self-pity, she has a fierce a protective side that is a joy to see, especially for the era she lives in! And Broderick? I think he may be the ultimate romantic hero, in spite of his need for blood.
Once Ms. Burnz has her world firmly planted in your mind, this tale takes off and never lets up! She has created an atmosphere that feels real, feels dangerous, yet she never let the romance falter for a minute. Take a walk on the dark side of history where love is like a beacon bringing two people together as they share a once in a lifetime love!
I cannot thank Arial Burnz enough for sharing this copy with me!
Series: Bonded By Blood Vampire Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: November 18, 2013
Publisher: Mystical Press
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 508 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
I don’t normally read any reviews before writing my own, but one caught my eye and pretty much reflected my exact thoughts: Um…holy crap? (Thanks, A.J.) Talk about historical/paranormal/romantic bliss wrapped in dark intrigue! Midnight Conquest by Arial Burnz sent me back to a time and place where superstitions and myths can become reality, gypsies have “the sight,” and two souls can find bone deep love that will last an eternity.
Davina meets the man she feels sure she is destined to love as a child, but there is more to Broderick than his handsome appearance, much more and soon he is gone. The years go by, Davina has married an abusive man, had his child and freed herself from his brutal clutches. Broderick comes back into her life, and although they have both changed, their hearts have not. But will loving Davina put her in danger from an ancient enemy out to destroy Broderick? Will she accept who and what he is?
Arial Burnz rocked my world with the attention to detail she uses to set her stage for this dark and often edgy romance. Her characters are simply amazing, from the old gypsy woman to the brutal and vindictive vampsyrian out to bring Broderick to his knees before ending his immortal life. Davina hasn’t let her life bury her in self-pity, she has a fierce a protective side that is a joy to see, especially for the era she lives in! And Broderick? I think he may be the ultimate romantic hero, in spite of his need for blood.
Once Ms. Burnz has her world firmly planted in your mind, this tale takes off and never lets up! She has created an atmosphere that feels real, feels dangerous, yet she never let the romance falter for a minute. Take a walk on the dark side of history where love is like a beacon bringing two people together as they share a once in a lifetime love!
I cannot thank Arial Burnz enough for sharing this copy with me!
Series: Bonded By Blood Vampire Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: November 18, 2013
Publisher: Mystical Press
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 508 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
February 1, 2012
Midnight Conquest by Arial Burtz
I normally do not read vampire or romance but since I’ve read a short piece by this author before, I did. Ms. Bunrtz is a talented writer. The cover of the book is also eye catching too for those who like big brawny Scottish Highlanders.
Since I don’t read much on ereaders, I found it difficult to get through 1500 pages albeit the enjoyable, certainly not boring, colorful tale set in 1500' Highlands, Scotland. Men in kilts, nice – if only… have you been to Scotland? Nary a kilt nor big brawny.
We get a slightly different view on vampires or as Ms. Burtz calls thenm, vamsyrian. They are ruled by a council, subject to strict laws, kill to survive and have no humanity. Sorry, the council lies, we learn.
The story begins with Broderick, the main character, and blood everywhere and him in such bad shape, a blood slave for females, and an enemy who wants to destroy him confronts poor vampire guy. He must decide to live, die, OR get revenge. Door #3 please.
An old clan rival, Angus, catches Broderick by using a hot widow, Davina Stewart-Russell, and being a studly vampire, he is drawn to her, but questions if she’s Angus'bait to catch him or an accomplice. Women, can't trust them, Broderick
The widow has her own issues: scares from her dead wife-beating husband, a hung up on a past romantic tryst with Gypsy rogue no-good, but in bed good, lover from her youth, who, after nine years, come together. Then there is Broderick, the hunk and the passion between Davina and him and will the rogue live up to her long fantasy?
As most passionate love story (made-up or real life) goes one is challenged for the sake of eternal love. Not a new plot and one many can identify with.
This novel is recommended for mature readers as some parts are juicy, and I don’t mean the blood parts.
KindleThe Skye in June
I normally do not read vampire or romance but since I’ve read a short piece by this author before, I did. Ms. Bunrtz is a talented writer. The cover of the book is also eye catching too for those who like big brawny Scottish Highlanders.
Since I don’t read much on ereaders, I found it difficult to get through 1500 pages albeit the enjoyable, certainly not boring, colorful tale set in 1500' Highlands, Scotland. Men in kilts, nice – if only… have you been to Scotland? Nary a kilt nor big brawny.
We get a slightly different view on vampires or as Ms. Burtz calls thenm, vamsyrian. They are ruled by a council, subject to strict laws, kill to survive and have no humanity. Sorry, the council lies, we learn.
The story begins with Broderick, the main character, and blood everywhere and him in such bad shape, a blood slave for females, and an enemy who wants to destroy him confronts poor vampire guy. He must decide to live, die, OR get revenge. Door #3 please.
An old clan rival, Angus, catches Broderick by using a hot widow, Davina Stewart-Russell, and being a studly vampire, he is drawn to her, but questions if she’s Angus'bait to catch him or an accomplice. Women, can't trust them, Broderick
The widow has her own issues: scares from her dead wife-beating husband, a hung up on a past romantic tryst with Gypsy rogue no-good, but in bed good, lover from her youth, who, after nine years, come together. Then there is Broderick, the hunk and the passion between Davina and him and will the rogue live up to her long fantasy?
As most passionate love story (made-up or real life) goes one is challenged for the sake of eternal love. Not a new plot and one many can identify with.
This novel is recommended for mature readers as some parts are juicy, and I don’t mean the blood parts.
KindleThe Skye in June
July 26, 2011
This is the first in Burnz's Bonded By Blood Vampire Chronicles series. Vampires, a long time blood feud, gypsies, two surprising revelations, two romances and a prophecy grace the pages of this paranormal romance. Set in 16th century Scotland, Burnz does a good job of letting the history act as a background, not another character in the story. It is there for flavor and not to take over the story. So no, this is not a historical romance.
Broderick began his Vamsyrian immortal life as a Blood Slave. Betrayed by his wife to his enemy, he was turned by the same enemy at his request so he would be able to continue to seek revenge against his enemy. He soon thereafter joins and travels with a Gypsy caravan reading fortunes.
Davina, stuck in a marriage where she is frequently beaten, had met Broderick when she was 13 and has loved him since. Her husband is now dead, killed in battle as were her father, brother and father-in-law. Her child thrives in the absence of its father. But Ian's body was never found and Davina has nightmares that he comes back.
Nine years have passed since that Gypsy caravan and Broderick have been to town. Broderick dreams of a grown up Davina, awakening him from his day sleep with the first dream he's had since being turned 30 yrs before. Davina has been waiting and hoping Broderick will return. She used the memory of him as her strength to get through the loveless, cruel marriage.
This is a good story which I enjoyed. I think paranormal romance and vampire fans will as well.
It has a sneak peak at the upcoming second book in the series, Midnight Captive .
Warning Spoiler Alert!!!
This has not one, but two HEA endings.
Broderick began his Vamsyrian immortal life as a Blood Slave. Betrayed by his wife to his enemy, he was turned by the same enemy at his request so he would be able to continue to seek revenge against his enemy. He soon thereafter joins and travels with a Gypsy caravan reading fortunes.
Davina, stuck in a marriage where she is frequently beaten, had met Broderick when she was 13 and has loved him since. Her husband is now dead, killed in battle as were her father, brother and father-in-law. Her child thrives in the absence of its father. But Ian's body was never found and Davina has nightmares that he comes back.
Nine years have passed since that Gypsy caravan and Broderick have been to town. Broderick dreams of a grown up Davina, awakening him from his day sleep with the first dream he's had since being turned 30 yrs before. Davina has been waiting and hoping Broderick will return. She used the memory of him as her strength to get through the loveless, cruel marriage.
This is a good story which I enjoyed. I think paranormal romance and vampire fans will as well.
It has a sneak peak at the upcoming second book in the series, Midnight Captive .
Warning Spoiler Alert!!!
This has not one, but two HEA endings.
December 11, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal).
Broderick McDougal, once a man of wealth, is now traveling as a gypsy in order to hide his vampiric identity. But he isn't just traveling for fun, no, now he wants revenge: He wants to kill the man, who destroyed his life, until he meets young Davina...
Davina used to be a happy and naive young girl, but life didn't happen in her favor, when she was married to a violent man. Now the only hope in her life is the gypsy, who might come to rescue her...
At first I expected this novel to be more about Broderick and his revenge, but in fact most of the novel centers around Davina. While I was a little bit disappointed, I still enjoyed reading though.
Davina is a really nice and likeable character. You just have to pity her for her father's bad choice to have her marry a horrible man. Although I'm not so sure about Broderick, he has some kind of shady parts, I like both of them as a couple. Broderick is simply the kind and caring man Davina needs.
A big negative point for me was all the sex and erotic stuff though. I have to admit erotic novels are probably just not my cup of tea. I enjoy having some erotic scenes here and there, but I dislike stories, that center around it. In my case Midnight Conquest gave me a feeling like it could have been better, if there weren't that much physical attraction and more action and intrigue. I still have high hopes though, maybe there will be more of a plot in the upcoming novels.
Broderick McDougal, once a man of wealth, is now traveling as a gypsy in order to hide his vampiric identity. But he isn't just traveling for fun, no, now he wants revenge: He wants to kill the man, who destroyed his life, until he meets young Davina...
Davina used to be a happy and naive young girl, but life didn't happen in her favor, when she was married to a violent man. Now the only hope in her life is the gypsy, who might come to rescue her...
At first I expected this novel to be more about Broderick and his revenge, but in fact most of the novel centers around Davina. While I was a little bit disappointed, I still enjoyed reading though.
Davina is a really nice and likeable character. You just have to pity her for her father's bad choice to have her marry a horrible man. Although I'm not so sure about Broderick, he has some kind of shady parts, I like both of them as a couple. Broderick is simply the kind and caring man Davina needs.
A big negative point for me was all the sex and erotic stuff though. I have to admit erotic novels are probably just not my cup of tea. I enjoy having some erotic scenes here and there, but I dislike stories, that center around it. In my case Midnight Conquest gave me a feeling like it could have been better, if there weren't that much physical attraction and more action and intrigue. I still have high hopes though, maybe there will be more of a plot in the upcoming novels.
August 10, 2011
Arial's debut novel Midnight Conquest is a great examble of two genres, paranormal and historical. Plus it doesn't deal with things that are all sweetness and light. Davina's husband Ian, is abusive to both her and her child. At times the book is graphic but never gruesome, which is a good thing, because you really don't want gruesome in your romance.
At first I wasn't sure what to expect from Broderick. He was so angry. Throughout most of the story I felt sorry for Davina. Nothing worked out well for her. The sad truth of the matter is that the abuse was all too common for women in those days, but Ian really took the cake. You really cheered when he is believed to be dead.
And speaking of other villianous characters, there's the gypsy girl Veronique. I know that I should have felt some sympathy for her, but I truly couldn't. She came across as a nasty bitch and when she finally got taken down a few pegs, I cheered Broderick on for doing it.
All the baddies get it, though, and there is a happily ever after...so YAY! I loved this book!
Arial gives us a teaser of the next book in the series and I really can't wait for it.
At first I wasn't sure what to expect from Broderick. He was so angry. Throughout most of the story I felt sorry for Davina. Nothing worked out well for her. The sad truth of the matter is that the abuse was all too common for women in those days, but Ian really took the cake. You really cheered when he is believed to be dead.
And speaking of other villianous characters, there's the gypsy girl Veronique. I know that I should have felt some sympathy for her, but I truly couldn't. She came across as a nasty bitch and when she finally got taken down a few pegs, I cheered Broderick on for doing it.
All the baddies get it, though, and there is a happily ever after...so YAY! I loved this book!
Arial gives us a teaser of the next book in the series and I really can't wait for it.
June 23, 2011
The reader will first notice the cover; eye-catching and alluring the cover will pull the readers in. The novel is very long, but this shouldn't deter a dedicated reader. The main characters are both very easy to get to know and enjoy reading about. The reader will like their quirks and qualities. The plot isn't terribly unique, but it is far from boring and will hold the readers interest. The book contains scenes of domestic abuse, a quality that only heightens the novels intrigue. Domestic abuse is an issue that shouldn't be ignored or swept under the carpet, the author handles the issue admirably. There is no cliff-hanger and the ending is very satisfying. This novel is recommended for readers who enjoy paranormal romance (adults or young adults).
4 stars
4 stars
February 22, 2013
I am a fan of old school vampires. The ones that drink blood from people and sleep in the day time because sunlight will kill them. This book has that and so much more! Broderick(vampire) is bent on avenging is family's death at the hands of a rival clan. Angus(vampire) blames Broderick for taking what was rightfully his. When Broderick finds himself falling in love with Davina, an abused woman holding fast to her image of strength, everyones lived are threatened. All the while sparring the events that bring about a prophecy that will change their (immortal)lives forever. The story unfolds an array of emotional and mythological layers that I found impossible to step away from.
June 1, 2013
Arial Burnz has being "simmering" this series for a very long time and I am honored to be able to both discover her work, the fact that she's "just down the street" and that I can call her a friend!
What a terrific tale!! I can't wait for more!!!
This is book one of what promises to be an awesome series!!! A vampire series that steps into territory a bit different from the usual! I loved it! You will simply fall in love with her characters!!! kj :0
What a terrific tale!! I can't wait for more!!!
This is book one of what promises to be an awesome series!!! A vampire series that steps into territory a bit different from the usual! I loved it! You will simply fall in love with her characters!!! kj :0
October 21, 2013
This was really good and it was a freebie. I really enjoyed this historical vampire book. But some of the talking wasn't historical but modern in fact most of it was. Not slang just normal speak. This book was fast paced and sexy. I will say that when the show down happened at the end between Broderick and Angus I was disappointed with why they were waring with each other. I felt like it was all this build up and it was for a petty reason.
June 29, 2017
Highly recommend
I highly recommend this book. It had a great, storyline, character development, character interaction, enduring love, some mystery, violence, it has everything. All put together nicely in this amazing book, that had me throughout. I look forward to book two and hope it's as good as book one.
I highly recommend this book. It had a great, storyline, character development, character interaction, enduring love, some mystery, violence, it has everything. All put together nicely in this amazing book, that had me throughout. I look forward to book two and hope it's as good as book one.
May 2, 2017
*FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of Midnight Conquest from Arial Burnz in exchange for an honest review. I have in no way been influenced by the author and/or publisher's generosity. You can't fake these stars, baby! (Audiobook Review coming April 1st)
Originally published at: NDP Book Review
Hello Mr. McVampyDrinkMyBlood!
Midnight Conquest is enticing, inviting, and everlastingly seductive. Broderick makes Dracula look like a wussy. He makes Batman seem... blasé. 🦇 This series should be called Bonded by Broderick because this man holds ambrosia and you already want to take a bite!
When Broderick is first introduced, he is given two options: immortality or death. (Jeez, Arial Burnz ain't messin' around here!) To Broderick, death is the preferable route after being endlessly backstabbed... but immortality does have its advantages... revenge sounds awful nice...
Why would such a sweet (strong, handsome, mysterious) man want revenge, you ask? Broderick is accustomed to being played like fiddle in the hands of a blood-craving puppet master named Angus Campbell. Broderick's family was slaughtered... his wife is a cheat... and all of this suffering is thanks to him.
It's no surprise that Broderick chooses to live life as a vampire. It's just unfortunate that Angus is the one to transform him; two enemies forever bonded.
May the payback Broderick has in mind for this douche lord come to fruition... 🍷🍷*clink*
Nearly two decades later, we meet Davina. She is a young teenager; curious, innocent, and smitten with a handsome stranger. Of course this stranger is Broderick-now a vamp-and he is posing as a Gypsy fortune teller. Swoon. Sigh. Is that drool on your face? Yes, yes it is.
Broderick isn't the only fortune telling Gypsy, and his tea-leaf reading sidekick has some prophesies of her own:
Oh yea? Well, Davina ain't stealing anyone's heart anytime soon because she eventually gets married off to a bastard of a man. (So much for that prophecy 🔮) While her husband beats her to a pulp, the only thing keeping her sane is the parallel life she wishes to live where the handsome Gypsy she met so long ago comes and saves her. Instead, she succumbs to the abuse, viewing herself as a sacrificial lamb for the future of her family.
And when we think it can't get any worse, the puppet master from hell decides to inject himself into Davina's life... and when I say "inject," I mean he bites her. This isn't a sexy bite either, my friends. He gnaws at her only to find the memory of Broderick swimming through her veins. Score. There's the man he's been looking for... Does this demon ever stop hunting? #No
Gawd where is Broderick when you need him?! Oh. He's over there in bed sleeping. He's dreaming sweet dreams of Davina and hallucinating about a risqué rendezvous. When they actually meet for the first time in years, he isn't quite the gentleman she remembers.
Say what, handsome Gypsy man? You haven't seen this woman for how long, and THAT'S what you decide to say? Well, at least your intentions are good, you brute.
But behind the mutual desire lay secrets. Angus chose Davina, and Broderick knows this... But why her? And why has she suddenly entered his life again after all these saucy dreams he's been having of her? Is this a trick? Get your score cards, because another round of Let's-Bring-Eternal-Damnation-To-Broderick is about to commence. The three are bonded by blood: Angus transforming Broderick, Angus biting Davina... wait, is she a vamp too? Someone is going to end up hurt in the end and it's going to be Broderick; this is his predetermined fate. A graph of Broderick's destiny looks like this:
A doomed fate is stacked against him, but Broderick fights. He fights for Davina, and he fights for redemption.
VampyVamp is going to make a girl melt with words like that! But I think the puppet master has more power over the pair than either of them realizes...
Friends, Midnight Conquest is a stunning portrayal of eternal love. Davina and Broderick are soulmates, yet with every page turn, I straddled doubt and fear. How can an author make you feel so much conflict? My heart cried as I fell into a world only Arial Burnz can create. I became Davina. I was ruined by Broderick.
Midnight Conquest will vex you, and engrave a new definition of love on your heart. I got no strings to hold me down, but Broderick has encapsulated my heart with his immortal fingers and I have absolutely no intention of cutting myself loose.
Originally published at: NDP Book Review
Hello Mr. McVampyDrinkMyBlood!
Midnight Conquest is enticing, inviting, and everlastingly seductive. Broderick makes Dracula look like a wussy. He makes Batman seem... blasé. 🦇 This series should be called Bonded by Broderick because this man holds ambrosia and you already want to take a bite!
When Broderick is first introduced, he is given two options: immortality or death. (Jeez, Arial Burnz ain't messin' around here!) To Broderick, death is the preferable route after being endlessly backstabbed... but immortality does have its advantages... revenge sounds awful nice...
Why would such a sweet (strong, handsome, mysterious) man want revenge, you ask? Broderick is accustomed to being played like fiddle in the hands of a blood-craving puppet master named Angus Campbell. Broderick's family was slaughtered... his wife is a cheat... and all of this suffering is thanks to him.
It's no surprise that Broderick chooses to live life as a vampire. It's just unfortunate that Angus is the one to transform him; two enemies forever bonded.
May the payback Broderick has in mind for this douche lord come to fruition... 🍷🍷*clink*
Nearly two decades later, we meet Davina. She is a young teenager; curious, innocent, and smitten with a handsome stranger. Of course this stranger is Broderick-now a vamp-and he is posing as a Gypsy fortune teller. Swoon. Sigh. Is that drool on your face? Yes, yes it is.
Broderick isn't the only fortune telling Gypsy, and his tea-leaf reading sidekick has some prophesies of her own:
"Your heart is the one she will steal, my son."
Oh yea? Well, Davina ain't stealing anyone's heart anytime soon because she eventually gets married off to a bastard of a man. (So much for that prophecy 🔮) While her husband beats her to a pulp, the only thing keeping her sane is the parallel life she wishes to live where the handsome Gypsy she met so long ago comes and saves her. Instead, she succumbs to the abuse, viewing herself as a sacrificial lamb for the future of her family.
And when we think it can't get any worse, the puppet master from hell decides to inject himself into Davina's life... and when I say "inject," I mean he bites her. This isn't a sexy bite either, my friends. He gnaws at her only to find the memory of Broderick swimming through her veins. Score. There's the man he's been looking for... Does this demon ever stop hunting? #No
Gawd where is Broderick when you need him?! Oh. He's over there in bed sleeping. He's dreaming sweet dreams of Davina and hallucinating about a risqué rendezvous. When they actually meet for the first time in years, he isn't quite the gentleman she remembers.
"What say we indulge in each other in a more private atmosphere?"
Say what, handsome Gypsy man? You haven't seen this woman for how long, and THAT'S what you decide to say? Well, at least your intentions are good, you brute.
But behind the mutual desire lay secrets. Angus chose Davina, and Broderick knows this... But why her? And why has she suddenly entered his life again after all these saucy dreams he's been having of her? Is this a trick? Get your score cards, because another round of Let's-Bring-Eternal-Damnation-To-Broderick is about to commence. The three are bonded by blood: Angus transforming Broderick, Angus biting Davina... wait, is she a vamp too? Someone is going to end up hurt in the end and it's going to be Broderick; this is his predetermined fate. A graph of Broderick's destiny looks like this:
A doomed fate is stacked against him, but Broderick fights. He fights for Davina, and he fights for redemption.
"I vow to protect you and all those you love with everything in my power, for all eternity."
VampyVamp is going to make a girl melt with words like that! But I think the puppet master has more power over the pair than either of them realizes...
Friends, Midnight Conquest is a stunning portrayal of eternal love. Davina and Broderick are soulmates, yet with every page turn, I straddled doubt and fear. How can an author make you feel so much conflict? My heart cried as I fell into a world only Arial Burnz can create. I became Davina. I was ruined by Broderick.
Midnight Conquest will vex you, and engrave a new definition of love on your heart. I got no strings to hold me down, but Broderick has encapsulated my heart with his immortal fingers and I have absolutely no intention of cutting myself loose.
April 4, 2018
Midnight Conquest by Author Arial Burnz
I really enjoyed this book, I really enjoyed my adventure with the characters Davina & Broderick, I will definitely be back to read more by Author Arial Burnz *****5 STARS***** from me :)
I really enjoyed this book, I really enjoyed my adventure with the characters Davina & Broderick, I will definitely be back to read more by Author Arial Burnz *****5 STARS***** from me :)
Want to read
April 21, 2020🎁 Free on Amazon today (4/21/2020)! 🎁
August 10, 2011
Midnight Conquest, Book #1 of the Bonded by Blood Vampire Chronicles
Author: Arial Burnz
Synopsis: Masked in a Gypsy guise, Broderick MacDougal hides his vampiric identity while seeking to destroy the man who slaughtered his family. When an old Clan rival ensnares Broderick in a trap using an enticing widow, he is compelled to discover if she is bait or an accomplice, and the cinnamon-haired beauty is his next conquest.
Widow of an abusive husband, Davina Stewart-Russell clings to the only image that gave her strength during those dark times—the Gypsy rogue who stole her heart as a youth. After nine years, she is finally face-to-face with him again, but reality clashes with fantasy as she is confronted with Broderick’s passionate pursuit.
When Davina’s past returns to haunt her, Broderick is forced to reveal a dark secret worse than anything Davina thought possible. The challenge before them has fatal risks and neither of them is prepared for the sacrifices expected for the sake of eternal love.
Our Review [Notes provided by Jennifer Vayda]:
As the story begins and you are first introduced to Broderick, he's in really bad shape; a blood slave to a women who just wants to use him, confronted by an enemy who just wants to destroy him, and faced with an almost impossible decision... To live, or die, and how best to get revenge.
You also meet a 13 yr old Davina. Young and carefree, she enters a Gypsy camp and is bewitched by the many wonders of Gypsy life. While there, she runs into a Gypsy fortune teller who says she must get her fortune told. While doing so, Davina comes upon this handsome, dangerous looking man, who is oddly comforting to her as well. Her fortune is thus: Be strong and always look ahead. Life will have it's ups and down but you will be O.K!
As Davina grows up, her life is not what she expected. There is a war going on and she is confronted by way too much death, fighting, and betrayal. The life changing events she encounters while maturing are chaotic and she feels at times they could end up being cataclysmic. She tries to keep the faith and do what she was told in that Gypsy camp by that handsome, mysterious man that she can't get out of her thoughts--to be strong and keep going-- but she doesn't always have the will to follow through and wonders if she WILL be O.K, or if she'll ever meet her wonderful mystery man again...
The book had a unique plot and the background, setting, and character building were vividly painted by the author. You felt as if you were wisked back in time and were living the drama with the characters from 16th Century Scotland.
It's a long one, over 1500 pages, so it's not for those that want a quick read, but it's a non-stop page turner that you won't want to put down, and it'll make you want to laugh, cry, and scream at pertinent junctures the whole way through.
LITERAL ADDICTION Paranormal Book Club gives Midnight Conquest 4 ½ Skulls.
We definitely recommend it for dedicated Adult readers that love Paranormal Romance, Vampires and even those who enjoy Historical Romance novels with HEA endings. We’re looking forward to what Ariel brings us with book #2 of the Bonded by Blood Vampire Chronicles.
Author: Arial Burnz
Synopsis: Masked in a Gypsy guise, Broderick MacDougal hides his vampiric identity while seeking to destroy the man who slaughtered his family. When an old Clan rival ensnares Broderick in a trap using an enticing widow, he is compelled to discover if she is bait or an accomplice, and the cinnamon-haired beauty is his next conquest.
Widow of an abusive husband, Davina Stewart-Russell clings to the only image that gave her strength during those dark times—the Gypsy rogue who stole her heart as a youth. After nine years, she is finally face-to-face with him again, but reality clashes with fantasy as she is confronted with Broderick’s passionate pursuit.
When Davina’s past returns to haunt her, Broderick is forced to reveal a dark secret worse than anything Davina thought possible. The challenge before them has fatal risks and neither of them is prepared for the sacrifices expected for the sake of eternal love.
Our Review [Notes provided by Jennifer Vayda]:
As the story begins and you are first introduced to Broderick, he's in really bad shape; a blood slave to a women who just wants to use him, confronted by an enemy who just wants to destroy him, and faced with an almost impossible decision... To live, or die, and how best to get revenge.
You also meet a 13 yr old Davina. Young and carefree, she enters a Gypsy camp and is bewitched by the many wonders of Gypsy life. While there, she runs into a Gypsy fortune teller who says she must get her fortune told. While doing so, Davina comes upon this handsome, dangerous looking man, who is oddly comforting to her as well. Her fortune is thus: Be strong and always look ahead. Life will have it's ups and down but you will be O.K!
As Davina grows up, her life is not what she expected. There is a war going on and she is confronted by way too much death, fighting, and betrayal. The life changing events she encounters while maturing are chaotic and she feels at times they could end up being cataclysmic. She tries to keep the faith and do what she was told in that Gypsy camp by that handsome, mysterious man that she can't get out of her thoughts--to be strong and keep going-- but she doesn't always have the will to follow through and wonders if she WILL be O.K, or if she'll ever meet her wonderful mystery man again...
The book had a unique plot and the background, setting, and character building were vividly painted by the author. You felt as if you were wisked back in time and were living the drama with the characters from 16th Century Scotland.
It's a long one, over 1500 pages, so it's not for those that want a quick read, but it's a non-stop page turner that you won't want to put down, and it'll make you want to laugh, cry, and scream at pertinent junctures the whole way through.
LITERAL ADDICTION Paranormal Book Club gives Midnight Conquest 4 ½ Skulls.
We definitely recommend it for dedicated Adult readers that love Paranormal Romance, Vampires and even those who enjoy Historical Romance novels with HEA endings. We’re looking forward to what Ariel brings us with book #2 of the Bonded by Blood Vampire Chronicles.
August 8, 2013
Broderick was tricked by a Vamsyrian (vampire) in becoming a blood slave. As a result he had to choose to become a Vamsyrian himself or become a member of the Army of Light. The remnants of betrayal forced him to choose the darker route and become a Vamsyrian. To avoid risk of discovery he hides himself in a band of Gypsies posing as a fortune teller.
Davina at an impressionable 13, loves when the gypsies come to town. Her and her handmaiden, Rosselyn decide to get their fortunes told and she is instantly punch drunk in love with Broderick. He foretells a tragic future full of despair and to hold on to a vision of strength.
All grown up 9 years later and the band of gypsies return. Davina is a hard woman now caused by the abuses she suffered at her husband's hand. The loss of her father, brother and husband left her feeling alone, vulnerable and protective of both her heart, her emotions and her daughter.
What she thought would be a fantasy reunion with Broderick resulted in disappointment as she discovered he is not the "vision of strength" her 13 year old mind wove him into.
Amongst many confrontations, misunderstandings and strife the two have to find a way to let go of their past and allow their hearts to love again.
My thoughts:
There was too much going on. Granted this is the first in a series but although well written, when surprise happened they were just dropped in and it was at times hard to follow.
For example The secret Rosselyn held did not fit in the novel at all. The whole time I thought it was that she knew what had happened with Ian, Davina's abiusive husband, not what the secret really was. This was just dropped in with no explanation as to why people would have been so severely injured because of this secret. Secondly towards the end of the book another "surprise" happened that didn't make much sense with the counsel and the Army of Light. Their reaction to Davina and Broderick was inconsistent with what was going on. This may seem confusing but I didn't want to give away too much. The ending felt rushed as if the author was trying to sum things up and threw in some cliffhangers to encourage reading of the next book. Overall I think this was a good book well written with fair to good world building (I know it was historical Scotland but it didn't feel historically Scottish enough). 3.5 stars
***book provided by the Author through PNR NaUBA group Author/Reader Exchange for an honest review***
Davina at an impressionable 13, loves when the gypsies come to town. Her and her handmaiden, Rosselyn decide to get their fortunes told and she is instantly punch drunk in love with Broderick. He foretells a tragic future full of despair and to hold on to a vision of strength.
All grown up 9 years later and the band of gypsies return. Davina is a hard woman now caused by the abuses she suffered at her husband's hand. The loss of her father, brother and husband left her feeling alone, vulnerable and protective of both her heart, her emotions and her daughter.
What she thought would be a fantasy reunion with Broderick resulted in disappointment as she discovered he is not the "vision of strength" her 13 year old mind wove him into.
Amongst many confrontations, misunderstandings and strife the two have to find a way to let go of their past and allow their hearts to love again.
My thoughts:
There was too much going on. Granted this is the first in a series but although well written, when surprise happened they were just dropped in and it was at times hard to follow.
For example The secret Rosselyn held did not fit in the novel at all. The whole time I thought it was that she knew what had happened with Ian, Davina's abiusive husband, not what the secret really was. This was just dropped in with no explanation as to why people would have been so severely injured because of this secret. Secondly towards the end of the book another "surprise" happened that didn't make much sense with the counsel and the Army of Light. Their reaction to Davina and Broderick was inconsistent with what was going on. This may seem confusing but I didn't want to give away too much. The ending felt rushed as if the author was trying to sum things up and threw in some cliffhangers to encourage reading of the next book. Overall I think this was a good book well written with fair to good world building (I know it was historical Scotland but it didn't feel historically Scottish enough). 3.5 stars
***book provided by the Author through PNR NaUBA group Author/Reader Exchange for an honest review***
March 21, 2016
I purchased this book and read it well before I started writing reviews, so I'm coming back to rectify that omission. Arial Burnz takes us to 16th century Scotland and shows us quite clearly that domestic abuse is not new and it is a shame it is still going on 600 years later. She handles the feel of the beatings with truth and grace, all while writing a book about a blood slave vampire Broderick ( who thinks he wants to die, but also wants revenge on the person he holds responsible for everything bad that has happened to him), and a young woman Davina (the abuse victim) who had been told her future by a Gypsy fortune teller when she was young, and had run into Broderick back then, but didn't realize how important he would become to her a few years into the future. With a war going on both inside her home and in her country, things are extremely difficult for Davina, and as history tells us, there were no options for a wife whose husband beat her. Things progress with the building of heat and passion between Broderick and Davina, yet each has secrets they fear will tear them apart. This is an extremely difficult read for an abuse survivor, so please make sure you are truly ready to read it, while the story is ultimately a hot, sexy love story between a woman and a vampire it has the truthful feel of a woman trying to survive in an erase where women were treated as their husband's property and had little to no recourse in getting the abuse to stop. Be prepared to feel every emotion that there is; sorrow, hatred, joy, passion, etc. you name it you will feel it before this book is through. A solid 4 ☆ read for me, can't wait until you all read book 2 Midnight Captive.
April 12, 2016
Title: Midnight Conquest
Author: Ariel Burnz
Genre: Paranormal Historical Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 509
Rating: 4
Setting: Scotland
Main Characters: Davina, Broderick
Supporting Characters: Roselyn, Amice
Summary: Broderick MacDougal, bent on revenge, becomes a vampire and bides his time with the Gypsies. Davina, having met Broderick when she was young has been fantasizing about him and awaiting his return for many years. Having endured abuse from her late husband, and a chance encounter with Broderick’s enemy with the two be able to put aside the past and find love?
Thoughts: Wow, overload of information but I loved it! Having such a deep understanding of the characters made the story that much more interesting. Reading the abundance of detail made the picture in my head seem to come to life. And this story has everything I love, romance, mystery, suspense, and a HEA. I look forward to reading the next book!
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Ariel Burnz
Genre: Paranormal Historical Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 509
Rating: 4
Setting: Scotland
Main Characters: Davina, Broderick
Supporting Characters: Roselyn, Amice
Summary: Broderick MacDougal, bent on revenge, becomes a vampire and bides his time with the Gypsies. Davina, having met Broderick when she was young has been fantasizing about him and awaiting his return for many years. Having endured abuse from her late husband, and a chance encounter with Broderick’s enemy with the two be able to put aside the past and find love?
Thoughts: Wow, overload of information but I loved it! Having such a deep understanding of the characters made the story that much more interesting. Reading the abundance of detail made the picture in my head seem to come to life. And this story has everything I love, romance, mystery, suspense, and a HEA. I look forward to reading the next book!
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2014
5 stars *****
This was really good!!! I had come across the 3rd one in this series in the Highland Shifter boxed set and could tell by the blurb it was part of a series and went and looked the rest up and could see it was something I would want to read. This was free on Amazon so even better luck there! I went ahead and purchased the 2nd one and am glad.
This starts with a young girl who goes to get a physic reading and finds herself drawn to the big gypsy man.
Years later after going through horrid experiences she finds him again though has no idea what he is and what she is getting into. He has been in a feud with a neighbor and she finds herself in the middle of it....
I found myself easily drawn into this whole world and went at a steady pace. I really liked how when she was older and realized who he was she wasn't to easy for him to get to.
Glad I get to find out more with the other 2 books from reading the blurbs I can see some tears my fall :(
This was really good!!! I had come across the 3rd one in this series in the Highland Shifter boxed set and could tell by the blurb it was part of a series and went and looked the rest up and could see it was something I would want to read. This was free on Amazon so even better luck there! I went ahead and purchased the 2nd one and am glad.
This starts with a young girl who goes to get a physic reading and finds herself drawn to the big gypsy man.
Years later after going through horrid experiences she finds him again though has no idea what he is and what she is getting into. He has been in a feud with a neighbor and she finds herself in the middle of it....
I found myself easily drawn into this whole world and went at a steady pace. I really liked how when she was older and realized who he was she wasn't to easy for him to get to.
Glad I get to find out more with the other 2 books from reading the blurbs I can see some tears my fall :(
August 17, 2016
This is by far the most standout vampire novel I've read, and I have read a lot of vampire series. It isn't your run of the mill vampires and not a sparkle in sight, thank goodness. Arial Burnz has definitely moved to my favorite authors list. She seamlessly blends paranormal and historical romance. She has created a vibrant world with in depth characters that pulls you in by the end of the first chapter. I rarely get emotionally invested in the characters, but I cried more than once with this one. Regarding the warning on the front, the domestic violence was handled tactfully and only enhanced Davina's story. Can't wait to read the next one. I received this book free for an honest review and honestly, I would happily pay full price for it. It is one of the best books I've read in a while, and I usually read several a week. Would and already have highly recommend this one to anyone over 18 that loves paranormal romance.
November 28, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal). This is an amazing book. This book has action lots of action with romance and mystery. The enmity between the clans is gradually revealed. Slowly we come to understand why the fighting began. Leading us to the ending, which set us up for the next book. I really enjoy reading this book.
July 7, 2017
Wow what a book! Can't wait to read the next one!
After the sneak peak I want to read it even more.
I received a free copy and this is my honest review.
After the sneak peak I want to read it even more.
I received a free copy and this is my honest review.
May 8, 2021
Strong start, but began to fizzle out in the middle towards the end. I just couldn't bring myself to care what happened to these folks, one way or the other🤷♀️
Want to read
June 25, 2011I was lucky enough to win a signed e-copy of this from http://www.theromancereviews.com/
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