Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Garner Witch #1

Bound by Blood

Rate this book
FBI agent and psychic, Brianna Reece, descends from an ancient and powerful bloodline of witches, only she doesn’t know it. But now that legacy has come back to bite her—literally.

In the shadows of night in Denver Colorado, a serial killer is hunting women, and FBI agent Brianna Reece is hunting the killer. Unlike any case she’s worked before, Brianna can’t ignore the prickling at the back of her neck when she glimpses the resemblance she shares with the victims. The investigation begins to touch even closer to home when it is revealed that all of the victims were also psychic. Complicating matters further, Brianna is captivated by the FBI’s prime suspect Nathan Donovan. Though she senses he is hiding something from her, the attraction she feels for him is compelling, and unlike anything she’s ever experienced. Through a chance twist of fate, Nathan learns of Brianna’s ancestry and is forced to divulge secrets to Brianna that will change her life forever.

When she learns that the killer is an evil vampire, and he’s now set his sights on her, Nathan alone holds the key to awakening her dormant powers. Now he must race to teach her how to control her emergent gifts before she becomes the next victim.

309 pages, Nook

First published July 21, 2011

24 people are currently reading
1799 people want to read

About the author

P.A. Lupton

2 books419 followers
Ever since I can remember I’ve had an addiction to books, and from the moment I picked up my first Anne Rice novel, I was hooked on the paranormal. The compelling lure of the paranormal world is irresistible. It is a world where anything and everything is possible, and the boundaries of humanity need not apply. A world in which life spans are measured by centuries and millennia, rather than decades, and a woman can possess inhuman strengths and kick major ass, yet still retain her innate femininity.

Why Vampires? They are the ultimate bad boys.
Women love a dangerous man, and what could be more dangerous than a vampire. Vampires embody everything we crave about the stereotypical bad boy. They exude confidence and sensuality. They are exciting, mysterious, and the epitome of masculine perfection—strong, youthful, and indescribably gorgeous. What’s not to love?

My first novel, Bound by Blood, combines my two favorite paranormal legends: witches and vampires—with a little romance thrown into the mix. I hope you enjoy it.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
249 (30%)
4 stars
271 (32%)
3 stars
197 (23%)
2 stars
66 (7%)
1 star
45 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
Profile Image for Mara.
2,533 reviews270 followers
January 31, 2012
I'm starting to understand why book bloggers do NOT review indie/self published novels. Honestly it's painful.

Rant

It's painful because if you want to be honest you know you might hurt someone's feeling. I know there's a real person behind a book. But the fact I have a camera doesn't make me a director. At the same time wanting to be an author doesn't mean everyone can do it. I am buying these books, even if they are "cheap". I'm not reading to bolster someone's ego. I'm not their friend. :(
I have read very few indie books worth the time/money. All the rest should have remained into a drawer together with the other dreams.

On this book

There are a lot of problems.
-The spelling, grammar, and punctuation are really poor, more than usual in this "field". (Punctuation was maddening in dialogues. Wrong quotation marks compelled me to reread phrases to understand what was a speech and what was text.)
-The story drags.
-The characters lack any semblance of reality. Even in a fantasy world there are rules that must be respected. In a world mimicking the real one, like in UF, these rules are even stricter. You may believe in magic and vampires, but a cop remains a cop.

Here the supposedly brilliant FBI protagonist is completely unprofessional and scatterbrained. She goes looking for clues without letting anyone know (actually she is not officially in charge yet) in the first pages. She makes out with the main suspect at page 30. Her father dies and she lusts after the same suspect at the funeral. Do you know what happens when a parent dies? This is not.

I'm sorry if I'm blunter than usual. Note that these are my thoughts. Given the stars, the other GR members' pov is quite different. Please read the other reviews.
Profile Image for AvidReader.
1,473 reviews331 followers
June 16, 2019
The world the author created, it was fascinating. I especially enjoyed the tale about origin of witches and vampires. It was new and refreshing. It also didn’t feel like ridiculous. Hero was good but heroine, she stole the show. Though in some instances I disagreed with her. I particularly enjoyed the thriller-mystery aspect of the book. Secondary characters were good too. What I didn’t like was the identity of killer. When it was revealed I couldn’t place him from previous scenes. Also Lisa, she deserved to die!
Heroine’s actions regarding to her sucked!
But in the end I was satisfied.
Recommended.
Profile Image for Nicole.
Author 1 book155 followers
November 12, 2011
Get swept away....

I was in the middle of trying to juggle all my different hats in my career, family, and passions (books) and behind on everything when I picked up this book. But Bound By Blood did not allow me to get away with rushing through it as sometimes us readers do... I have so many books I want to read that sometimes one gets shortchanged a bit. This one was not having it. I loved it! I loved Biranna and her never say die attitude, I really enjoyed the way she never relied on someone else and that she would learn to do whatever she needed to protect herself but also showed her softer side with Nathan. And wow Nathan.... oh so hot! I didn't expect the spicy factor in this book to sizzle so much.

The writting was perfection! I found a few errors but I couldn't believe this is Lupton's debut novel. It had everything I love and look for in a paranormal romance.


Needless to say It swept me off my feet, I could not put it down and was sad to finish it!

As always thanks to my favorite group Paranormal Romance & Urban Fantasy Fanatics! on Goodreads, Read to Review, and to Kay with all the hard work that goes into this program! And to the brave author who opens their books to a varied crowd with interests all over the place to get our humble opinions.
Profile Image for The BookChick .
1,454 reviews425 followers
December 29, 2011
Can I just say that I absolutely loved this book? P.A. Lupton did an outstanding job weaving together a story that was filled with action, adventure, romance, and interesting characters. This book was better than many of the overpriced books that I've read. And for $.99, this book was a gift.

Nathan and Brianna were a fantastic H/h...But the capital "H" in this instance was for heroine and the little "h" was for hero. Brianna was amazing. Using her powers: she saved herself from a rapist when she was a teenager; she saved herself from the crazy vampire and her equally crazy sister; and she also saved herself from the elder she thought was going to kill Nathan.

The story was engaging, witty, and enjoyable. I definitely give it 5++++++ stars.

Great job Ms. Lupton...great job, indeed!
Profile Image for Ronda  Tutt.
863 reviews54 followers
September 22, 2011
Captivating, Exciting, and Thrillingly Suspenseful!

Wow! Wow! Wow! What a perfect start to a new series – I totally loved it! The story has everything you could ask for in a Paranormal Romance as it was full of suspense, excitement, clean taste of erotic scenes, humorous bantering between the characters, kick ass fighting, witches, vampires, and lots of intense emotion that will have your head a spinning in totally amazement.

The romance between the FBI Agent/Witch Brianna and Nathan was immediately electrifying in every scene that I could literally fill the power and desire between them two as if their magic was coming through the pages. The erotic love scenes were deliciously tasteful that left your mind’s sexual hunger very satisfied. The romance just bloomed sweetly and playfully as their love grew for each other.

The partnership between FBI Agent/Witch Brianna Reese and FBI Agent Todd Morrison was very humorous and heartwarming as they formed a bonding friendship while working the case of trying to find a serial killer.

The story was weaved with so much intensity of hunting down this mysterious vampire killer that at some points it kept you on the edge of your seat. The killer’s attacks were brutal and viscous to the point of torturing his victims and healing them just enough to keep them alive along enough till they handed over the special gifts the victims were born with as witches.

Like in every suspenseful detective type investigation the story takes many turns as the agents get closer to capturing their killer, especially when he and his accomplice is right under their noses. The best part is finding out the true motives which are shocking in this story and you will have to read to find out those motives – LOL, What! You thought I was going to tell you – NOT!

I have to admit that I now have a new favorite heroine – yes that’s right, I totally loved Brianna’s character, Such a strong fighter with a kick ass attitude that can stand on her own without the help of any type of man whether he is mortal or immortal. This is truly one story that everyone is going to fall in love with and a series that will keep us Jonesing for the next book until the next release comes out.

The Ending had the perfect Happy Ever After that I about had tears in my eyes from all the happiness. I look forward to reading more about the new adventures that Brianna, Nathan, and Morrison take on for the Vampire Council as they work with the Enforcers to protect the innocent humans and keep the vampires and witches secret from society.

Excellent Read!
Profile Image for Alexis *Reality Bites*.
757 reviews3,658 followers
January 14, 2012
Spoiler Free Review
4 STARS
Genre: Paranormal Romance with Mystery and Suspense


I did not know what to expect when i started this book i am not into witch storylines but i have been swayed! I really enjoyed this book and i kno Nathan is the leading man but i want Morrison BAD!!LOL!!:D Brianna Reece is the Heroine and this chick has become one of my fave females next to Cat and Mona Lisa. She is fun, fierce and fealess just the way i like my Heroines!!
I think the author did an excellent job at weaving the plot she kept me on my toes and then threw in many twist and turns that left my mouth hanging open. I love a book that is full of discovery and this book is that in more ways than one it had a little bit of all my fave ingredients which is a Paranormal s/l, Romance, Action, a good backstory, jaw dropping twist, a sexy vamp,a sexy FBI agent, a killer mystery AND last but not least a Very Strong Female Lead!!!
I can't wait tot read more from you P.A. Lupton!!:D

Book summary below from Goodreads.com
FBI agent and psychic, Brianna Reece, descends from an ancient and powerful bloodline of witches, only she doesn’t know it. But now that legacy has come back to bite her—literally. In the shadows of night in Denver Colorado, a serial killer is hunting women, and FBI agent Brianna Reece is hunting the killer. Unlike any case she’s worked before, Brianna can’t ignore the prickling at the back of her neck when she glimpses the resemblance she shares with the victims. The investigation begins to touch even closer to home when it is revealed that all of the victims were also psychic. Complicating matters further, Brianna is captivated by the FBI’s prime suspect Nathan Donovan. Though she senses he is hiding something from her, the attraction she feels for him is compelling, and unlike anything she’s ever experienced. Through a chance twist of fate, Nathan learns of Brianna’s ancestry and is forced to divulge secrets to Brianna that will change her life forever. When she learns that the killer is an evil vampire, and he’s now set his sights on her, Nathan alone holds the key to awakening her dormant powers. Now he must race to teach her how to control her emergent gifts before she becomes the next victim.
Profile Image for Alexia.
85 reviews31 followers
October 25, 2011
I freaking love this book!! The author, Penny-Ann Lupton got me hooked on the first page till the very end. I couldn’t put it down – I was even sneakily reading at work when I had a chance (don’t blame me if I get fired, not my fault)! You know it’s a great read when you start getting anxious when you realize there are only a few pages left – I started reading slower in hopes that I could read longer *sighs*.

The characters are fabulous. Brianna (love that name) is a powerful woman with a hunger for life. The way she handles herself in dangerous situations is absolutely amazing. I enjoyed how Brianna and Todd Morrison became such good friends.

Mr Nathan Donovan… *fans myself* … oh my… That man is a hotness monster of note!! When I think of Nathan I can’t even put words into sentences – seriously! I’m super glad that Nathan and Brianna got together and that they have so much chemistry (I’ll be honest – I’ll say I’m glad but really I’m actually jealous).

Penny-Ann Lupton is definitely an author I’ll be following from now on – no questions asked! I enjoyed her writing style – this book had super hot (melt your bones) romance, humour and cool action scenes. This book is a definite MUST read to all that love paranormal romance. I can’t wait for the next installment of The Garner Witch series!!
Profile Image for Alana ~ The Book Pimp.
857 reviews192 followers
October 8, 2011
Brianna is a strong, intuitive FBI agent with empathic gifts. She transfers to Denver and immediately dives into her newest case, all involving deaths of girls that look remarkably like herself. The trail leads her to to the successful and attractive Nathan, the primary "person of interest" in her case. From the moment she meets him, she feels a strange pull daring Brianna to risk everything: her career at the FBI, the truth of her family and the key to unlocking herself....

This is a fantastic beginning to the Garner Witch series. It is a happy combination of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and even a detective story to boot! The heroine, Brianna is a strong, sassy, modern woman - the kind you would expect having chosen law enforcement for their profession. Her gifts are unique, and grow in depth and detail. You can tell P.A. Lupton did her homework for all the research that must have been done to complete this novel. The "mythology" of the book is well thought out and has a unique spin, setting it apart from the herd of your average witch or vampire paranormal romance. The plot was well thought out with a few twists and turns; it kept me guessing until just before the revelation.

I would recommend this book to a friend; at the price I paid, .99cents, it is well more than worth the expense for the amount of enjoyment you will get out of it. For a first novel in a series I was really impressed!

As with any book, there are always at least a few aspects that were lackluster:
♦While the main character, Brianna, is extraordinarily well written, Lupton did not seem quite as comfortable with the male's characters point of view. They were by no means weak, but the depth of emotion and character thoughts and action did on a few occasions seem to contradict the expected response. Most notably, I feel there needed to be more conflict rather than surprisingly quick acceptance.
♦Now I am no perfectionist, or particularly skilled in the art of editing, but there were a few errors that are noticeable. They are easily ignored during reading, and will not impede the enjoyment of the story.

*Update* There is a second edition release that removed a majority of these issues.
Profile Image for Ana.
521 reviews359 followers
November 5, 2011
First off, I would like to thank the PNR&UFF group and the author for giving me a copy of this book! I am thrilled I found out about P.A. Lupton and may I say I am looking forward to reading more from her.

GOSH!!!
I really didn't expect this book to be so GOOD!

lol cat Pictures, Images and Photos

Brianna Reece is an FBI agent and just moved from Chicago to Denver to work on a case. She is part of the VICAP, FBI's Violent Criminal Apprehension Program, specialized in solving unexplained and unusual crimes. A killer is on the loose and he has already gotten away with three murders, all young girls, and the Denver PD has no clue who it could be. Looks like they have some unpleasant business with a cruel and professional person, neat in his crime, not leaving any traces behind. All of the victims are drained their blood, and there is no evidence or a sign pointing on how the killer did that.
But Brianna is not only an agent, she is a psychic. Actually she's an Empath and has the ability to sense and channel people's emotions. She is about to find out she has even greater powers!

I really enjoyed thoroughly each page of this book! I loved the suspense and the fact it kept my attention while reading. What I also loved was the very easy-to-read-and-understand style P.A. Lupton used, there were no unnecessary descriptions or dialogues. Everything was in it's place, perfectly tied in a captivating paranormal mystery story.

The characters were well developed and I loved Agent Reece, confident, strong female character. She sure is one of the best book characters I came across in my life.
I loved the romance scenes in this book, they were written well and tasteful.
This sure is an amazing read and I recommend it to EVERYONE.
Profile Image for t'irla ~The Bookslayer~ aka Barbara.
1,018 reviews134 followers
January 24, 2012
In P.A. Lupton's debut novel we have the beginnings of a really strong PNR series. In Bound by Blood we meet Brianna Reese, FBI Agent, witch and all round alpha female. Brianna newly transferred to Denver is partnered with Morrison a old school FBI Agent and both have to investigate the death of several drained females. During the investigation we meet Nathan Vampire extraordinaire..Nathan has some secrets that will change Brianna's life forever.

PAL has created a strong female lead who doesn't need any man to help her kick butt whether it be human or vampire. She is a very compelling character with a well rounded back story which helps the reader emotionally connect and care about her. The male leads are perhaps not as well rounded as Brianna with a few scenes that just didn't seem to be in character for the type of male presented. Short of that the plot is great, a true old fashion who-dun-it and a surprising end.

I can't wait for the next book to see how these characters develop even more and see how Morrison handles his changes. Solid 4 stars which I can see heading for 5 if her next one is as good as the first. Recommended to all PNR fans especially those who like a bit of mystery with their vamps!
Profile Image for Ronda.
890 reviews179 followers
October 25, 2011
What a surprise!!! I loved this book, it had the mystery, the paranormal and lots of suspense and questions.

I followed Brianna (Reece) and found myself in the middle of murder, mystery suspense circumstances that held my attention throughout... I warmed to the characters and I hoped I was liking the right ones!! I felt all the emotions that I love to feel during a book, from laughter to suspense, from sadness to shame... I loved that I 'felt' the storyline.

I read this book as part of the 'Read to Review' and I am so pleased I opted for it, however, there were a number of typos and I hope that the copy I had was just that, a copy, not the final version or it would be a shame. I did get past these mistakes because the book was so captivating.

I would definately recommend this book to those who like the suspense and paranormal, I really really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for katrina.
993 reviews70 followers
October 28, 2011
A fresh captivating storyline filled with the world of the paranormal – witches and vampires but ah har – it contains twists to the tale, giving it a different spin on things. Moments where you will find yourself grinning sheepishly, giggling and also cringing. Other moments where you wander what the hell is going to happen!! (( HIDES IN CORNER WITH HANDS ON EYES ))


Bound by blood involves .kick arse characters - humour, action, suspense, romance, erotic encounters even of the mind type lol, Murder mystery and certainly mayhem.


Nathan and Brianna upon meeting had an instant attraction; the chemistry between them was wafting off the pages. Nathan was old school, handsome, hunky and of course drop dead gorgeous!! A knight in shining amour!! My kinda man... The passion the characters had was enough to send sparks off your reader and have you flipping frantically through the pages. The sexual encounters where certainly smoking ** waggles eyebrows ** enough so that the characters passed out due to such an intense emotion overload ** (one could only wish hey lol.. ) now your intrigued !! lol.



Nathan and Brianna and her partner are all involved in investigating the murder of several woman all drained dry of blood with no markings what so ever. They are trying to find out why they are being targeted and by whom, we are taken on a whirlwind , and roller coaster ride where at every page and every corner something new became about ! I won’t go into too much detail as far as the story you really have to read it for yourself.



Saying this the story was evenly set out with equal amounts of passion, romance, action and suspense. A riveting storyline that will captivate you from the beginning and have you reading right till the very end. I know I did!! Emotions and descriptions are all well put forth, creating that place in your mind where you are able to envisage and see what’s going on. I enjoy a book that drags you in where you feel like you are there !!



The character development was well placed, I enjoyed every character set forth, the evil where depicted as evil as you could imagine and even a twist and a turn in there that you certainly won’t see coming.



Overall. I really enjoyed this story ….. Fluent flowing storyline, bewitching female lead, spellbinding hunk ** inserts wolf whistle here ** and secondary characters I’m sure you will certainly enjoy as much. If this was a hamburger I’d say you go the lot!!!!!

I look forward to more in this series !!!
Profile Image for WildAboutBones.
328 reviews29 followers
September 12, 2011
4.5 Stars!!
Vampires, witches, FBI Agents, a serial killer, murder, betrayal and romance come together in this first of a new series by P. A. Lupton. Written in first person from the point of view of the female lead, Lupton adds to the traditional mythos of both vampires and witches. With several interesting twists and turns, this has a very good story line and fully developed characters.

Gotta love a story that can work in references to not only Anne Rice, the X-Files and Buffy, the Vampire Slayer but also classic rock ballads - Heatwave’s Now and Forever; now that takes me back.

Nathan, the male lead, is stunned when he finds out who Brianna really is and that she doesn't really know who she is other than the basics which she has just learned from her father. He tells Brianna “I feel a strange … connection to you...” Nathan turns her world upside down in so many ways it's like she's on an amusement ride. He is further amazed when she tells him “'Okay...” [rolling her] eyes sarcastically ... 'Then, bite me.'”

Brianna, humorous and quick to anger FBI agent, can sense things about people - she's an Empath. She is also a pistol - she decked her new partner, Morrison, before she knew who he was. When she meets Nathan, she "noticed three things at once: First, the alluring scent that filled the room was him. Second, he was undeniably the most drop dead gorgeous man [she] had ever laid eyes on. And third, he was the source of the pulsating charge in the room. His aura literally vibrated like nothing [she’d] ever seen or felt before, it was as if lightning were contained in the body of a man ... Great, his voice was just as destructive to [her] libido as his touch, it was like pure sex!"

From the very beginning there is a steamy chemistry between Brianna and Nathan. And the sex between Brianna and Nathan rivals that of Lynsay Sands' Argeneau series mates who pass out because the sex is so good.

Even though this is a nice long well developed story, I was so captivated by the story, I read it in one day. I think fans of the paranormal romance, vampire and witch genres will enjoy this story.
Profile Image for Terri ♥ (aka Mrs. Christian Grey).
1,528 reviews482 followers
October 29, 2011
I received this book as a part of R2R.

Overall this was a great read. The author does a good job with the mystery and intrigue. I really liked Brianna as a tough kick butt girl. I also enjoyed Morrison and wish him a HEA with the next installment of the book. Nathan was great of course. My only complaint would be that I would have loved to see Nathan court Brianna more. I didn't get a sense of what he woud do to get the girl. But I didn't let that affect my rating of the book. I certainly would recommend.
Profile Image for L.J.  ~ aka Former Lurker.
124 reviews
July 19, 2012
This debut novel, Bound by Blood, completely surpassed my expectations! The author, P.A. Lupton, immediately grabs your attention and you quickly become engrossed in this story! The characters, the plot, and the founding principles to this vampire and witch world that Lupton has created is refreshingly original. You deeply connect with the characters and their witty dialogue in this action-packed, steamy page-turner! You can count me among her fans that eagerly await the sequel to this captivating series!
January 7, 2012
I really liked Brianna and Nathan. I thought they were a solid couple and the chemistry was really good but their relationship wasn't just about the heat. They genuinely cared about and respected each other without either one coming off as weak. I loved the different take on how vampires came into being. Overall a very good book.
Profile Image for Kara-karina.
1,712 reviews260 followers
August 27, 2011
4.5/5
I can't quite pinpoint why I liked this book so much, but it was such a pleasurable read!

First of all, I suspect P.A. Lupton is a neat freak. *grinning* I was so impressed that the spelling in the book was impeccable. Usually there are so many mistakes in self-published books, and here there was just a couple of accidentally omitted words, and that's it.

Secondly, the book just flows and you sort of go along with the flow. I kept expecting Brianna to mess up, to have a full blown hissy fit, but she stayed reasonable, rational and willing to learn how to live in her new reality.

I greatly admired that. Usually there is always a set back in the book when the main character finds out that their system of beliefs is skewed, and you sort of expect it. Nothing like this happens here.

Brianna, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Brianna is a psychic or more correctly, - an Empath who works for FBI and keeps her ability in secret. She transfers to Denver and gets involved with a serial killer investigation where every victim has an uncanny resemblance to her.

The investigation brings her to Nathan Donovan, an owner of private security business, a witch and a vampire. Nathan and Brianna are attracted to each other and she doesn't suspect who he is until his own investigation uncovers Brianna's roots and that she is in danger from the killer.

Nathan is forced to tell Brianna the truth about her and himself and start working with her on the identity of the killer. He also begins training her in her abilities.

They spar, they experiment with spells together and make love like crazy until the killer makes his move. Now it will take everything Brianna's learnt to win the fight for her life.

Nathan and Brianna make for a wonderful couple, they are attuned to each other and they make each other stronger. Even Brianna's partner at work, agent Morrison when he gets involved brings an invaluable help into the investigation.

Yes, as I said there are no setbacks of rage and disbelief. Although some evil guys are easily recognisable.

The end made me do a girly squee. Loved it. Go, go, Brianna! Well done!

The bad boys of the Council were also very promising, especially Lucius with his tattoos and piercings... Yum. Sign me up for a book about him *wink*

So, if you want a cosy read without the usual frustration, this is it. This is a paranormal romance crossing into UF, evenly paced and with much potential.
Profile Image for Angie ~aka Reading Machine~.
3,746 reviews135 followers
October 22, 2014
Special Agent Reece of the FBI division VICAP is working a serial killer case in her new hometown of Denver. Meeting her new partner at the crime scene is quite a shock seeing that he's sporting a black eye that she gave him from earlier. Her partner's name is Morrison and both can't believe that they are stuck together as partner's. The victims appear to have all their blood drained from them with no marks on them which is baffling. Brianna never expected to be attracted to Nathan Donovan during her investigation which is so unexpected for her. Brianna continues her investigation but is startled by seemingly unlikely resemblance to the victims but is not sure why or how it's possible. Nathan Donovan holds a surprising secret that could change Brianna Reece's life forever. Brianna is stunned to learn that her mother was murdered by the serial killer as in her current case. How will this affect Brianna's case? Will Brianna give into her attraction to Nathan? How can she stop this serial killer? Your answers await you in Bound by Blood.

Witches and vampires have special spot in my reading library since I first read about them. There unique culture and histories hold deep fascination for me. Whether it's the first time reading them or repeated readings. I found the characters unique and fascinating. I found the writing bold, rich, interesting, and unique. I will continue to read this author in the future.
Profile Image for ★Ruth★.
1,457 reviews
January 1, 2014
This was a really good crime thriller with a paranormal edge.

FBI agent Brianna Reece is a great character I really enjoyed learning who & what she was along with her. She is kick ass but also has a great heart.

Nathan the 'Lurve' interest was hot & there really were some very hot scenes between the two & I have to say that it was nice that they were really falling for each other before they fell into bed together as opposed to the other way around.

And FBI agent Morrison was also a great character as Brianna's partner, he really grew on me throughout the book. He added some great comic moments as well as some really poignant moments between him & Brianna.

Overall this book really sucked me in with the murder mystery which was great because you knew from the get go that there was gonna be a witch's & vampires element from the blurb so there were no surprises there so the crime element kept you guessing & keen to know what was gonna happen.

And also the romance was really sweet which added to the enjoyment level for me as I need romance in my novels to really enjoy them.

The ending, though it did tie up the loose ends from this story, does let you know that there is a lot more for Brianna to learn & a much larger story going on behind what happened in this book. I am looking forward to know what that story is.
Profile Image for Laurielu Bona Fide Reflections.
430 reviews79 followers
October 10, 2011
Bound by Blood, (The Garner Witch, #1) by P.A. Lupton is a smooth, enjoyable, humorous paranormal romance complete with memorable characters and a captivating plot. Brianna Reece is an FBI agent and a witch with strong empathetic psychic abilities which allows her to very adept at interrogation. She and her partner,Todd Morrison, become embroiled in an investigation which centers around a series of murders where the victims are all women who resemble her and are killed by exsanguination with no outward trauma. As her investigation moves along, she meets the sexy and illustrious Nathan Donovan who owns a security company which seems to have ties to many of the murder victims. The story’s plot takes the reader down a path of intense anticipation and excitement in the paranormal romantic suspense and personal revelation on the part of Brianna.

The author’s voice is polished and flows very nicely. She adeptly uses the first person point of view from Brianna’s perspective which is fresh, fun and often capricious. Brianna is an enjoyable heroine to read about because she is funny, spunky, honest, loyal, and persistent in her need to do the right thing. Nathan is her perfect complement as a hero because he is a sexy vampire who shows an unwavering commitment towards Brianna and devotion for those under his protection. Plus, his personality remains consistent and reliable. These elements add to the enjoyment of the story because there is no frustrating clash of personalities that make a reader want to hurl the book against the nearest wall.

Another positive point to Bound by Blood is the steadfast buildup to the relationship between Nathan and Brianna. Despite their strong attraction to each other, they take their relationship slowly. The author successfully adds to the anticipation of establishing the relationship by weaving a romance that is charmingly sweet and touching while portraying intense feeling. She successfully causes the reader’s heart to melt. There is one part in the story where the author describes a build up to a kiss that will make the reader catch his/her breath.

P.A. Lupton is a very adept writer whose debut novel is a welcome addition to the paranormal romance genre. She has created a novel that is both character and plot driven with a smooth cadence to the storytelling. Readers will not be disappointed in Bound by Blood and should be proud to add the book to their bookshelves.

Happy Reading from Bona Fide Reflections!
Profile Image for  * Kazzy * -aka Stryker-.
170 reviews40 followers
November 25, 2011
I won't go into lots of detail about the story as other reviewers have already done this, so just to say this was an interesting and engaging book that although had a PNR theme, also in my opinion was a great murder/mystery type plot. I felt at times the murder/mystery actually took over from the whole paranormal angle, and it was easy to forget there were vampires and magic at play sometimes, but I felt this added to the intrigue and made for an exciting storyline.

The characters were fresh and Brianna was a great kickar*e heroine who knows how to take care of herself. I like the way her magic ability was explored with Nathan and how he helped her to build her skills, and I really liked the mix of magic and vampire which I haven't seen often in other books i've read. I also found the book provided a slightly different take on the world of vampires.. I liked the idea of how some could walk in the day and some couldn't according to whether they were good or evil, and how Nathan also had the ability to perform magic, it made for an interesting twist.

The story also brought in issues of friendship, with Brianna's relationship with her co-worker Morrison and how he was always there to support and help her out, and is a topic i'm sure a lot of readers would be able to identify with, which helped to ground the story in some kind of reality (even though it's a work of fiction) which I feel always adds to a book. There were also some really hot sexy scenes that threw in a 'WOW' factor, and you have to read it for the dinning room scene... hilarious, very cool! LOL. The storyline involving Morrison was unexpected, I hadn't anticipated things would take the route they did and I can't wait to see how that aspect is progressed in future books.

If I had one critiscm its that I felt there were an awful lot of gramatical/typing errors which became quite annoying at times, however the storyline was so good it made up for that so it didn't detract from my overall rating! Generally I liked the writer's witty and clear writing style and would recommend the book not just to PNR lovers but also anyone who likes a good murder/mystery.
Profile Image for Evelyn Amaro.
114 reviews26 followers
December 7, 2011
Read my full review on Paromantasy

Pulse-pounding action, blood-boiling romance, and pull-you-hair-out suspense, along with a kick-ass heroine is what makes Bound By Blood a must-read for us Paromantasy fans!

Brianna is a kick-ass FBI agent with a hidden talent - she's psychic. She secretly uses her gifts to solve murders until she comes across a murder and an aura that she just cannot figure out. Women are dying and the killer is always one step ahead of her, until they finally find a suspect in Natahan Donavan. The problem is, Brianna feels an instant pull to him and soon the world as she knows it gets turned upside down when she finds out the reason why. She's a witch with a deep connection to Nathan's family and the killer is after her bloodline. With Brianna in his crosshairs, Nathan and Brianna try to develop her powers and with that their connection pulls them closer together. Can Brianna trust Nathan? Will Brianna be able to put a stop to this murderer or will she be the next to die?

This book is a page-turner that will keep you glued to the end and leave you wanting more! I cannot wait for the second installment of this series! I love Brianna's kick-ass attitude and warm heart. The sexual chemistry with Nathan is to die for, you will fall in love with Morrison, and you will keep guessing until the very end who the murderer is. I seriously could not put this book down!
This book is rated 5 fangs!
Profile Image for Kathryn.
670 reviews
October 23, 2011
Bound by Blood by P.A. Lupton is an eerily spun web of witches and vampires that grabs your attention from the first few pages and holds on to you all the way through. The writing is exquisite with giving details that allow you to feel exactly what the heroine, Brianna, is going through. Brianna is the type of heroine that I love reading about, because she is tough and vulnerable at the same time. Being an FBI agent provides her with the confidence she needs, but at the same time it has dampened her social life. P.A. Lupton gave Brianna a strong voice throughout this book with her creative writing and I felt that I was actually living in this world and experiencing every emotion right along with her. And let me tell you, there are some scenes in which that is FANTASTIC!! Which leads me to introduce you to Nathan. WOW...what a man!! So much chivalry and at the same time such a badass!! Love men like that!! And, not to forget the other man in her life, her partner Morrison. Morrison is the type of guy that when you first meet him you can tell he acts like a jerk to fit in, but once you get to know him, he is just a big teddy bear...Definitely a great best friend in my book!
Anyways, Bound by Blood has definitely set up a storyline that is full of action, passion, and humor that allows the reader to experience an array of emotions that leave you wanting more as you read the last word on the last page. A definite must read!!
Profile Image for Shannon Dermott.
Author 21 books496 followers
October 4, 2011
I love a good police procedural story. It’s probably my first love in reading. Add to it the paranormal and I’m in heaven.

Bound by Blood wove a wonderful tale with a mix of mystery and romance, not to mention the action. The heroine, Brianna, was a no nonsense woman that didn’t need a man to save her. Some may feel her relationship with her male lead may have come together quickly. But when it’s magical, what else can you expect. I fell for her guy just as hard and fast as they did for each other. So it didn’t bother me at all.

From the beginning, you are drawn into the potential danger and there is no letting up. This book was fast paced, winding action with world building effortlessly. What I liked most about this novel was the mythology behind the vampires. It was nothing like I’d ever read before which is a breath of fresh air. It’s nice when you read about a creature you’ve read many times before but there is a different believable twist and take on it.

The story wraps up nicely but leaves you with just enough to want you to return to Brianna’s world for her next adventure. I really liked this story. For those who enjoy mystery, romance, and the paranormal, this is a winner for you. I personally can’t wait until the next installment.
Profile Image for Jennifer Templeman.
Author 3 books29 followers
October 24, 2011
It's been a while since a new book grabbed me as quickly as PA Lupton's Bound by Blood. The combination of an intellegent, strong leading lady, perfectly capable of taking care of herself and others, mixed with a mysterious attraction to a strong man, not seeking to change her, but to make her stronger was too much to resist. I thought the plot was original and gave us enough clues to figure out some things on our own, while still leaving us wondering what was going to happen next.

If I were going to say anything critical it would be that another editing read through might have been helpful prior to publication, however even the scattering of errors, didn't deter me from getting into the story and enjoying it thoroughly.

There aren't enough books that show women as both tough as nails and capable of having a tender loving side. The fact that this book did made it all the more refreshing. Lupton has proven it is possible to write someone who is strong without them becoming a dominating, difficult and obnoxious character.

I would heartedly reccomend this book to anyone looking for a quick, captivating, sultry romance with a good bit of mystery, adventure and hot paranormal characters thrown in.
Profile Image for Tina Carreiro.
Author 10 books124 followers
October 17, 2011
I absolutely loved this book! Anytime an author can enter a paranormal world and give me a fresh and creative storyline, they have my attention. I loved the story of the Garner witch family and the twist at the end. I thought I had the killer pegged but I was wrong, kind of. The vampire lore is fresh with detailed explanations of why some can walk in the daylight and some can’t.

Brianna kicks ass and this is before she gets her full boost of power. I love a hardheaded heroine. You can feel the instant connection between Nathan and Brianna and their love story is sweet and full of passion. I can’t wait for the next installment and I hope to see more of Morrison as well. All the characters were well fleshed out and the storyline was solid.

What I loved most about the book was the author’s imagination and ability to give her readers something new and exciting. P.A. Lupton did an excellent job and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
Profile Image for Zoe.
339 reviews32 followers
March 5, 2013
This was so, so, so, so good.it has everything going for it, a truly fantastic piece of writing. The plot was interesting, clever and well thought out. The writing was modern with hints of old world charm, demonstrated through the main male character,while the content was all relevant with no 'padding 'to fill the pages. It was constant twists turns and excitement. The characters were all fantastically balanced, the female lead while being independent and firsthand was also soft and vulnerable and the male lead swoon worthy, the protector and gaurdian, lover and friend. Even the sub characters pull you completely in. I really cannot give this story enough praise. I cant wait to read more, a new huge fan.
January 12, 2012
I really liked this book. It offers a new view of vampires and witches, and paranormals in general. The characters are well thought-out and developed, and the plot is a great beginning to the series. The heroine, FBI Agent Brianna Reece, is great kickass woman who can defend herself and hold her own. The hero, Security company owner Nathan Donavan, is yummy and sweet, yet tough and stubborn, and very good match for Brianna. They find themselves drawn to each other instantly and find themselves relying on each other to solve a terrible serial killer case.

All in all, a really good book. Would I recommend it to a friend? Absolutely! Would I read others in the series? Yes, please.
Profile Image for Dana.
48 reviews34 followers
November 25, 2011
A very smooth and entertaining read. I really enjoyed the author's plot twists, although I think the thing I liked the most was her use of humor. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes to read paranormal series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.