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Limerence #1

Limerence by Claire C Riley

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One man's obsession could destroy them all.Despite her love for her fiancé, Mia Lawrence finds herself inexplicably drawn to Mr Breckt- the mysterious new owner of the Island. Her thoughts are constantly consumed with the handsome and powerful stranger. However, there is much more to him than she realises, something dangerous and supernatural.Mr Breckt is used to getting what he wants, and now he wants Mia, at any cost! With his obsession spiralling out of control, he knows that time is running out. A war is coming. Blood will be shed, and lives will be lost, but he will have to rid himself of his obsession of Mia before it’s too late.Mia and Oliver must now fight the very evil that threatens to come between them. If either of them fails, it will be more than their love for each other that will be lost.Ultimately, all three will have to make a sacrifice that will change each other’s destiny forever… but will it be the right one?

Paperback

First published March 18, 2013

37 people are currently reading
702 people want to read

About the author

Claire C. Riley

92 books1,198 followers
Claire C. Riley is a USA Today and International bestselling author.

She lives in the United Kingdom with her husband, three daughters, and ridiculously naughty rescue beagle.

* Gryffindor * Targaryen * Zombie slayer *


MC ROMANCE:
Devil's Highwaymen Ride or Die Series (3 books)
The Devil's Highwaymen Nomad Series (4 books)
Tame his Beast duet (2 books)

MAFIA ROMANCE:
Deviant Prince #1
Twisted Princess #2
Royal Blood: The Brotherhood

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE/THRILLER
Beautiful Victim (standalone)
Fragments of Delores (standalone)

NA ROMANCE
WRATH #3 in the Elite Seven Series

POST-APOCALYPTIC
Odium The Dead Saga Series 8 books
Odium Origins Series 3 books
Out of the Dark (standalone)
Red Eye The Armageddon Series - co-authored with Eli Constant (3 books)
Thicker than Blood series - co-authored with Madeline Sheehan (3 books)

PARANORMAL ROMANCE
Limerence (The Obsession Series)
Twisted Magic (standalone)

ROMANCE
Shut Up & Kiss Me - Co-authored with Madeline Sheehan

HORROR
Blood Claim (standalone)

FIND ME
She can be stalked at any of the following and always welcomes any questions readers may have.

www.clairecriley.com
https://www.facebook.com/ClaireCRiley...
http://bit.ly/clairecrileyamazon/
https://twitter.com/ClaireCRiley
https://www.google.com/+ClaireCRiley
and redheadapocalypse on Instagram

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5 stars
129 (37%)
4 stars
90 (26%)
3 stars
72 (20%)
2 stars
35 (10%)
1 star
19 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany.
1,295 reviews194 followers
April 17, 2019


4 Stars!!



All righty then.... well this was not what I was expecting when I downloaded this lil gem to my kindle. This book was a legit WTF- book.



Despite being desperately in love and engaged to Oliver-



Mia, finds herself attracted to Mr. Breckt.



She cant explain why just being in the presence of her fiancés boss, makes her feel things she knows she shouldn't be feeling. Her thoughts her feelings- even when she is away, Mr. Breckt consumes her mind.

Mr Breckt is used to getting what he wants, and now he wants Mia, at any cost! With his obsession spiraling out of control, he knows that time is running out. A war is coming. Blood will be shed, and lives will be lost, but he will have to rid himself of his obsession of Mia before it’s too late.



Mia and Oliver must fight to hold onto what they both share. If either one of them fails, it could cost both of them in the end.



This is a vampire story- just not the kind where the vampires start to sparkle in the sunlight.

UMMM NO....

These vampires are old school. Like the kind from interview with the vampire. They cry tears of blood and sweat blood. They don't have much humanity and they aren't sweet and cuddly. This is a dark, well written story- full of lust, obsession and Love.



I loved Ollie and Mia together. They were so sweet and just perfection. I couldn't stand Mr. Breckt, but at the same time- his character was presented flawlessly. You cant help but hate him yet love his character for what it is.

The beginning of this was a little slow for me, but after about the 50 % mark- I was in for the long haul. That's where things really started to pick up and the action and drama really started to unfold. The last 20% was soooo intense. With a cliffhanger that left me only wanting more.

I cant wait to read part 2!! If you're into vampires- you should give this one a go!!



Profile Image for JaHy☝Hold the Fairy Dust.
345 reviews632 followers
March 24, 2015
Look, I tend to shy away from paranormal tales because The Fever Series nearly sent me to the loony bin. ... Seriously, that series should earn readers college credits... just sayin!

** Rearing my thoughts back in **

I borrowed this book from kindle unlimited because the cover caught my eye ( finally, being a cover whore paid off). . . . and I'm borrowing book 2 because the author is that good.


. . . Peace OUT!

** Better review to come ................................ maybe! **
Profile Image for Lo Bookfrantic.
834 reviews596 followers
August 11, 2017
Okay, so I don't know how I feel yet. Perhaps I feel nothing right now Or too much?!.
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This was a complete mind fuck, a rollercoaster ride. Felt so much and yet It left me so sad and empty but wanting more if that's even possible.
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The author makes you fall in love with Mia and Ollie, oh they are just absolutely perfect together. I LOVED them so much!
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But then Robert a vampire gets obsessed with Mia and fucking ruins everything, I hate him . Image and video hosting by TinyPic

I was a mess by 52% so much happened but kept me hooked wanting answers. Stuff I couldn't believed happened. Image and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic

Then OMG Ollie and Mia, I couldn't help but loved them and fall all over for how perfect they were for each other.
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Shit happens again leaving me broken and empty, without hope.
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I really enjoyed this book a lot the ending was crazy, her sacrifice for the justice she wanted but now what?! Of course I'm moving on read book two because I want more answers this can't end like this, it just can't... Image and video hosting by TinyPic

I need to see Mia's powers and revenge for everything that she lost, I need more!!
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Profile Image for San.
34 reviews3 followers
March 20, 2013
It's not the kind of book that I would usually read. But I read it on good authority and wasn't disappointed. The story is dark, grim, romantic and beautiful all at the same time. The characters are bold, strong and memorable. I'd highly recommend you read this book, as it's one of the best books I've read in a while and believe you won't be disappointed. So what are you waiting for. Go have a read!!!
Profile Image for Claire Riley.
Author 92 books1,198 followers
May 9, 2013
Limerence is the first in a series of books. It is based around Mia Lawrence the lead female character. It is a dark paranormal romance with a twist. It fringes on psychological horror and is also 17+ due to how hot it can get!
Profile Image for 'Q' aka CoCo.
569 reviews62 followers
February 26, 2015
Oh Ollie...

I refuse to ruin this with spoilers so I will just say that I loved Ollie in this book. He was everything a hero should be and the sex scenes between him and Mia were so hot, they literally scorched their clothes. Mr. B... what can I say? For such a badass, he whines an awful lot but did make a great, although sometimes annoying, villain. The ending made me both happy and sad... and desperate for book 2.
Profile Image for Ken Mooney.
Author 13 books48 followers
April 16, 2013
It's sort of difficult to talk about vampires these days without mentioning Twilight...so let's just get that out of the way straight away.

This. Isn't. Twilight. And that's a really, really good thing.

At first glance, Riley's novel is an "erotically charged" novel that just happens to have vampires; but even saying "erotically charged" feels wrong (and sort of dirty...but in the good way.) That changes once the first dead body appears on the page (and don't worry; you don't have to wait too long.) What follows is a sensual fable of lust, desire, sex, love and how they all come together. And that sometimes, they don't go hand-in-hand.

Riley breathes refreshing life into Mia Lawrence, a likeably flawed protagonist, likeable mostly because of her acknowledgement and self-awareness of her many flaws; although she's engaged and happily in love, she finds herself mysteriously drawn to Mr. Breckt. Breckt is the dark, dashing stranger that forms the backbone of gothic romance novels like this, but there's a problem: Breckt (like the novel) is more dangerous than Mia could ever imagine...and more dangerous than this reader imagined too.

By moving the narrative voice between Mia and Breckt (and occasionally some other characters too), Riley creates a compelling cast and a dark, twisted narrative. We're forced to care for Mia because of what we know (and what she doesn't), but we WANT to care for her; Mia's struggles embody the battle between ego, superego and id that vampires play in modern fiction. And Breckt...well, I'm glad that I didn't like him; Riley's vampire is less Edward Cullen and more akin to the psychological torture and uncomfortable sexuality that most people forget about when they think of Wuthering Heights. And it really works for this book.

There's a darkness at the heart of Limerence, a beautiful, raw, terrifying darkness that makes the book a page-turning, sensual read. And I mean sensual in the good way, a buffet for every sense as Riley works her way through a checklist of sumptuous sights, smells and pleasures of the flesh (yes, there's sex scenes, but each one helps to develop characters or their relationships; Riley's skills often lie not in what is said, but in the need and desire that these scenes represent.)

Limerence establishes Mia Lawrence as a character I look forward to revisiting, and firmly places Riley on the list of talented authors that I want to see more of.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,198 reviews204 followers
March 28, 2013
REVIEW: LIMERENCE is the first storyline in Claire C Riley’s new Limerence series written in a combination of genres-paranormal, urban fantasy, thriller and suspense. The storyline follows the obsession of a powerful vampire and his need to make the beautiful human female his own. But what ensues is a twisted tale of wants versus needs; love versus hate; obsession versus death. The storyline is dark, dangerous and a little disturbing as Robert Breckt stalks, compels, mystifies and eventually destroys the very thing he wants.

We watch as our heroine Mia, who is desperately in love with her fiancé Oliver, fight the compulsion and attraction to one of the most beautiful and seductive men she has ever met. But Robert Breckt is not what he appears to be. His desires, his needs, his body and his soul want Mia and no one else. This is not a story of one’s man burning love for the female of his dreams, but one man’s obsession with the only woman he cannot have or control.

Throughout the storyline we are pulled in as Mia’s relationship with her fiancé falters when the building compulsion to find Mr. Breckt interferes in their daily lives and, we watch as Oliver sets into motion a series of events in which everyone will suffer in the end.

LIMERENCE is a well-written, engaging, obsessively dark and fascinating storyline of obsession, love and revenge. Limerence is the story of Mia’s transformation from a loving human female to a predator without any remorse.

“I’m a vampire.”

“A hunter.”

“A temptress.”

“I’m not going to be the good girl any longer.”



Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied by the author.

see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for ACG.
48 reviews1 follower
August 19, 2013
1.5 stars.

Spoiler alert!

......................

I don't really know where to begin with this book; I'm at a loss for words in the worst possible way. Seriously, what did I just read? I bought this book because of all of the rave reviews; it seemed legit... Finally! Another vampire novel to "sink my teeth into." NO. No no no no no. I had to force myself to finish this book... It's plagued with pages upon pages of internal and external dialogue between characters that lacked any true depth... I had to skip sentences, paragraphs, pages because of the characters talking/thinking in circles, but still I finished. Halfway through the book I started hoping for the worst possible outcome for Mia as a sort of redemption for having to read her babbling ridiculousness over and over. She has a hot boyfriend/fiancé (she can't decide which he is to her apparently) that she is supposedly madly in love with; yet, the only glimpse of that love that we get is how she thinks he's just as hot now as he was when they met. There was nothing "real" about her love. She also has the hots for "Ollie's" employer of sorts, Mr. Breckt, whom she had a chance encounter with and he is suddenly madly obsessed with her... For reasons unknown, other than her beauty. Really she's annoying and indecisive, and I'm not sure what else she has going for her... Other than her long black hair and sparkling blue eyes. *eye roll*

Then there's the vampire(s). Seriously? SERIOUSLY?! I appreciate the fact that they don't sparkle, but I swear, Robert Breckt is the most whiny vampire in the history of vampire novels. He is psychotic and violent, which is pretty cool, but at the same time: MAN UP! I felt like I was reading: "Oh Mia, why don't you want me? I know you want me. Please want me. Will you ever want me? Love me. Just love me. You love me right? Why don't you love me? Will you ever love me? You'll never love me will you?" Holy. Crap. So he shows his love, like any other psycho, by abducting her man, supposedly killing him, turning her into a vampire, beating her, setting her on fire... You know, just another day in cuckoo land. But don't worry! Mia is a vampire now, no pain no gain... All that matters is poor Ollie, who she just can't live without after she comes to her senses and despises Mr. Breckt...

Then there's the fiancé, "Ollie," who is beyond lame... And all the sudden is a vampire! Yay! Turned somehow someway and magically appears to roll around in the sack with Mia. *yawn*

Oh... But here comes the psycho Mr. B: "oh Mia, you mean you love your fiancé and not me?! How could you?! Why don't you love me?! Isn't it obvious by now how much I love you?! That should be enough!" *puke*

I thought, for a brief few pages, that the author would do something amazing and kill them all off. Much to my dismay, that didn't happen. However, it almost did, and that may have been the best part of the entire story.

Oh poor, beautiful Mia, destined for a life of servitude to the Queen because Mr. Breckt was a naughty boy. That's cool though, because she's beautiful... And she can be whoever she wants to be because she has an eternity to figure it out. *UGHHHH!*

You know it's bad when the character is trying to set up a scene by describing a scene that could happen in a movie. I'm not sure what the point of the epilogue was, but that's pretty much in line with much of the story.

I don't know, maybe it's me. There's all these great reviews & here I am... Wondering what book they got to read and why it was a different version than the one I bought. Nothing about this book connects for me. Nothing at all.
Profile Image for Serena Louise.
89 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2013
Amazing book written by a brilliant author. The story is captivating and exciting, you'll be laughing and you'll be crying. Full stars and a high recommendation. Can't say any more, a must read! x
Profile Image for Adrienne.
483 reviews22 followers
May 16, 2013
You know what? This was a really good book! Am I surprised? Yea, I kinda am. I'll be honest here cause well that's what I'm supposed to do right? I 'usually' don't read vampire books. I'm not a Twilight fan. I don't get excited by fangs, blood, and sexy sparkly vampires. But if I'm being honest, I've read all the BDB books. So now when I do read a vampire book, I can't help but measure them up to that series. Not fair right? Well life's not fair.....just sayin.....

EDIT - So did it live up? Heck yea!!! The story is not as in depth as BDB but that's not necessarily what makes a great story. Ms. Riley wove a really nice tale here. A tale with so much potential to expand.

Okay so I had to look up the word Limerence because for as smart as I like to think I am, I didn't know what it meant. At first I thought Ms. Riley made it up LOL yes I'm naive like that. So here's what I found:

Limerence can often be what is meant when one expresses having intense feelings of attachment, preoccupations with the love object, and (as new research on brain chemistry shows) a similar mind-state to obsessive compulsive disorder.

Okay that's the end of my review because that sums up the entire book.

:-) Just kidding, although it does sum up Mr. Breckt perfectly. I refuse to call him Robert. Read the book you'll understand why.

Okay so if you read the synopsis you know that the book is about. Mia has a fiance, Oliver. But she meets Mr. Breckt and all hell breaks loose cause well he's just Limerence about her and she doesn't understand why she's attracted to him. HOWEVER, Mia loves Oliver no Mia is totally and completely devoted to Oliver. So what does she do? Read the book!

For me I thought the book was a tiny little bit slow in the beginning. But about 1/2 way through my mouth was hanging open and things were starting to happen. Wait I need to stop for a second and address something.

When I say things were happening, what I mean is nothing that I expected to happen did happen. That's to say that I sat with my kindle in my lap with my eyes bugging out and my mouth hanging open. I had so many "holy crap", "what the hell", "omg" moments it wasn't even funny. Just when I thought I had it figured out Ms. Riley threw me for a loop up against a wall.

By the end of this little gem called Limerence, I was yelling out loud. My daughters were sitting there both with different questions. My youngest (10) said "what happened Mommy?" my other daughter (14) said "Can I read it? Please tell me it's not for adults only." Sigh...I was in too much shock to answer them right away. Then my youngest said "Did someone die in the book?" HAHAHA did someone die...geesh is she nuts the book is about vampires! OF COURSE SOMEONE DIED. Lots of someones died. I just looked at her too dumbfounded to answer. I DID NOT SEE THIS COMING! See all my shouty caps? They are there for a reason. I'm yelling at you Ms. Riley. You disrupted my little world of flowers and rainbows. I did not see that coming. It was perfect.

I love it when an author can surprise me. I love it when an author can make me cry. I love it when an author can put together a book that sticks with me hours even days after I'm finished. I am not a fan of cliffhangers. Mostly because I secretly love them. It's like roller coasters. I love the thrill but it's hell trying to get me on one.

Hurry with the next book Ms. Riley. I have need to know where the story goes from here.

**A copy of this book was supplied by the author in return for an honest review.**
Profile Image for DanniElla.
150 reviews8 followers
April 25, 2015
Ugh. I started skimming at 42%.
I don't even know what to say about this book.

It starts sort of okay even though it reads a lot like fun fiction; kind of FSoG, Twilight, Dracula (and I don't know... maybe Jupiter Ascending, lol) crossover. I loved the mystery at the beginning, but that went down the drain very early in the story.

As for the rest... well it sucked.

Weak heroine whom constantly calls herself an idiot, her puppy-eyes boyfriend, wannabe bad vampire that's actually a cry-baby, annoying best friend, and worst of all - the writing.
As I read on it got worse. Whining and dwelling kept going on and on, and the whole form got totally messed up at some point. It felt as if some parts were written by different people.

Unfortunately, one big mess and a total turn off for me.
Profile Image for Maribel Carnes.
178 reviews8 followers
May 26, 2014
I've just finished and maybe I should wait and write a review since my emotions are all over the place but I can't, I need to get it all out of me now!
Right off, I loved Ollie-who wouldn't? "I love you so much, Mia.I just wanted to protect you, that's all I ever wanted.All I ever tried to do." Oliver meant well, thought he was doing the right thing, but his first mistake was to think you could trust a vampire.
Mia, I thought she was okay at first, nothing special maybe even a little weak but the more I read and got to know her the more I saw that she was Special and very very strong willed.
Mr.Breckt, our undeniable vampire(or so you would think)- I wanted to connect to him,to be enthralled by him, but that never happened- "I'm not used to coming in second,Mia.I'm a very sore loser." Well maybe in the end I felt something-maybe pity? But it was a little too late for that.
The Mia we met in the beginning isn't the Mia we have at the end. No, she is something much more lethal.
"I'm a vampire.A hunter.A temptress.I'm not going to be the good girl any longer."
3 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2013
This book had me wanting more all the way through, the characters in the book are amazing and also make you feel like you have a connection to them in some way, great read and can't wait for a sequel!
Profile Image for Shauna Brookman.
3 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2013
I loved reading this book - it didn't follow what I thought was the normal vampire type story. The writing was very evocative and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next!!! :)
Profile Image for Ivan Amberlake.
Author 14 books120 followers
May 10, 2013
LIMERENCE by Claire C. Riley is an extremely enjoyable and well-written paranormal romance. It was a very quick read for me, because the book flowed smoothly and the plot line kept me engrossed throughout.

The arrival of a mysterious Mr Breckt to the Island ruins Mia and Oliver’s chances for a happy future. Even though Mia knows she loves Oliver, she can’t help falling for the charming and irresistible Mr Breckt. But the appearance of this stranger is followed by a few people disappearing, and Mia’s fiancé Oliver is among them.

LIMERENCE is written in the present-tense first person POVs, mainly Mia’s and Mr Breckt’s. I really enjoyed reading about Mia who is so passionate and vulnerable, yet strong at the same time. I admired her love for Oliver who is my second favorite character in this book.

Claire Riley’s prose is descriptive but not overwritten, which is very important. I could easily visualize everything I was reading about. Here is a short piece where Mr Breckt is being introduced into the story, which I like a lot:
“As if on cue, a man steps out of the shadows of a side doorway. A doorway that up until that moment I hadn’t even noticed. He’s young and handsome. With a chiselled firm jaw, and perfect shaped mouth. His hair is dark and thick, styled and yet unruly, as if unwilling to be tamed. He’s of medium height and build, but in the suit and tie that he’s wearing he commands everyone’s attention.”

It’s a great read aimed at 17+ readers. I really look forward to reading LIMERENCE II: Mia! I want to find out what happens next.
Profile Image for Alexis.
27 reviews
April 27, 2013
Limerence by- Claire C. Riley

Review written by- Alexis O’shell

5 out of 5 stars

I loved this book, it was so very good. Perfect Vampire book, lots of suspense, happiness, sadness and strength! The beginning was a tiny bit repetitive but that did not at all make or break this book. I saw beyond that right away.

The love between Oliver and Mia was amazing, sweet, special and well unbreakable. Mia was a strong female lead and didn’t have any little quirks I disliked! Oliver was just… Swoon worthy. He was so sweet to Mia and did anything and everything for her. Their love for each other was so perfect I was starting to get a little jealous!

I don’t want to say too much and give anything away but the Villain, wow! I disliked him right from the start. He made my emotions go crazy with hate! I guess that’s why he was the bad guy. ;-)

At first this book was good, and then towards the middle and end it was great! It picked up, lots of twist and turns, a few I saw coming, a few I had NO idea about.

All in all I could not put this book down once I got started. The author is really talented considering this is her debut novel! Go get yours today!
Profile Image for Toni FGMAMTC.
2,098 reviews26 followers
September 3, 2016
This story, although contemporary, has an old feel to it. The vampires aren't as romanticized. There is an undeniable attraction between the female lead and the main vampire antagonist, but they do not have the same goal in mind. Really neither are in their right minds, hence the title. Everything that happens cannot be glossed over. He doesn't have pure intentions, and when his façade slips, she can see the monster underneath.

At times I found myself wanting to be on Mr. Breckt's side, much like Mia, but I knew only bad things could come of it, also just as Mia did. The story has mystery elements and dream sequences reminiscent of the original Dracula story, but the feelings in this story draw the reader in much deeper in my opinion. It has more of an edge and more desperation. The writing allows the reader to feel from each characters point of view. I felt something for them all. Oliver's character totally won me over. He is the sweetest soul.
I lie awake for hours on end. Worrying for Oliver, worrying for us, and thinking of him. I feel like I am in a Harry Potter movie: 'he who shall not be named.'

The entire time I was reading, I was waiting for the evil to drop. Every scene was spooky in my head because I just knew something was going to happen at any moment. Things do happen. Prepare to feel sadness and anger. Within the words are two tragic love stories and a compelling entry into a new world. Mia has great heroine potential. She's someone the reader can really get behind. I'm looking forward to more.
So what now? Now what do I do?

Do I want to carry on as if everything is okay, as if everything is going to be okay? Can things ever be good again.

If imperfect vampires (vs the vampire fantasy fairytale of many books these days) is your thing, this book is probably for you.

4.5 stars





***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***














FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
Profile Image for Melanie's.
566 reviews29 followers
October 8, 2014
*This Book Was Given To Me For An Honest Review*

Let me start off by saying that the title is perfect for this book. Limerence (the involuntary state of mind which results from a romantic / sexual attraction to another person combined with an overwhelming, obsessive need to have one's feelings reciprocated) totally describes Mr Breckt's feelings for Mia far better than any other word I can think of.

Sadly for me that was where the perfection ended. The story tracks Mia's crazy journey with the "mysterious" Mr Breckt and tells the story from several character's viewpoints, mainly in various shades of monologue. The idea of a taking an obsession to this level was a great one especially when paired with the supernatural / vampire element but for me the execution fell flat and I couldn't connect with the characters the way I would have liked.

Added to that the story takes a major turn at the end by introducing a hierarchy that was never really fully explained and even with my vast vampyric knowledge I was still left questioning what exactly the point was? I realized at the end that the author was setting things up for book 2 which may actually be really great if the focus can stay in one area.

The descriptions in the book were for the most part different and interesting which is one of the reasons that this book is not getting a lower star rating from me.

I think this book had great potential but somehow lost its way which was a shame but over all I give it 3 stars.

V""V
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,490 reviews32 followers
April 18, 2013
This book had me feeling so many emotions at one time. I got to read a book that was full of romance, paranormal, suspense, thriller, and it was just jammed packed full of action.

Mia and Oliver have a love that everyone wants. Everything seems to be going good for them until Robert comes in the picture. Robert is obsessed and wants Mia for himself. She makes him feel things that he never felt before.

The story starts out one way and turns so suddenly. You just never know who to trust and what will happen next. I am still is shock from everything that I read. The plot of the story is something that grabs a hold of you and still doesn't want to let go when you reach the last page.

The author did a wonderful job and I usually don't read books like this. I love vampire books so I thought I would give it a try and I am so glad that I did. I loved what the author did and the way she brought out everything in her characters. I just never knew what feelings I would be feeling next.

I will be watching for more books by this author. I guarantee when you read this book that you will still be asking yourself what in the world happened. I am so sad about the ending and I hope I will get to read another book with Mia in it.
Profile Image for Dawn Liddle .
246 reviews15 followers
July 29, 2013
First off i would like to say i love all things vampires so to say i actually hated the vampire is this story is saying something :O ... This however shows how great the authors style of writing is to create characters that bring out theses emotions is great. I was routing for the good guy all the way through :)

The story is about Mia and Oliver they are a normal couple in love until Ollie starts working for the new guy ( cue evil vampire)Mr Breckt... He comes into their lives turning them upside down and putting a strain on their relationship.

Mr Breckt is obsessed with Mia and will do anything to have her; my views of him are slightly insain stalker who does not take rejection very well :$ however as i said before i am bias because i am team Ollie...

What i really really really loved about this book is it is also i love story, the love between Oliie and Mia was awesome to read...

over all i gave this book 4* and i cant wait to sink my teeth into the the next book... :)
Profile Image for Eli Constant.
Author 77 books83 followers
April 5, 2013
I'm still finishing Limerence, but I've unfortunately read a few other reviews that contained spoilers so I know what I'm in for as I continue reading through the final chapters. Below, I have tried to craft a review that is both vague and informative (as oxymoronic as that seems). These are my impressions of Limerence by Claire Riley.

Limerence is not without flaws, but those flaws have contributed rather than detracted from the emotional investment this reader feels. I'm not focusing on grammar here when I speak of flaws (Limerence is nicely crafted and well edited). It is the lovingly-crafted characters, the mind-children of Claire Riley, that are riddled with flaws and thusly more real, more human, more approachable. Anyone who has been in a relationship - based on true love or otherwise- has experienced the occasional wandering eye- innocuous or intentional- and the poisonous guilt that follows. Mia's wandering eye, although not entirely her fault, eats away at her and forces her to question her innate goodness and faithfulness to Oliver. Of course, Claire’s Limerence takes the concept of wandering eye to the fantastical and ‘enth degree.

Throughout much of the storyline, Mia struggles with herself, both internally and externally, to remain faithful to Oliver. Robert is a convincing partner in crime. Everything about him calls to Mia- even when she glimpses a peek of his more sinister, barely-hidden nature she wars between fear and lust. Robert is born to hunt Mia- it is who he is, what he is- his natural state of being. I should have realized what he was at the beginning, but Claire artfully sidesteps the issue, letting the mystery of Robert survive until it was absolutely necessary and fundamental to the storyline to reveal his nature. There is a particular scene where Mia- half awake and struggling against the after effects of binge drinking- hears the sounds of heated arguing from the living area of apartment... and all we reader's 'hear' is Oliver shouting that he knows what Robert is... know who they are all and what they do.

Robert has his own struggle, trying to understand the irresistible draw to Mia. He eventually realizes that his vain nature propels his need for her. She is taken, loved by another man, unavailable. It is common to find that which we cannot have more attractive than that which we already own. His desire for Mia leads her towards the deterioration of her humanity and the loss of everything she holds dear.

Out of everyone, I found Mia to be the most real. Her response to situations normal (if sometimes misguided). She is transformed, literally and figuratively, into the living opposite of who she was. Love and good-naturedness are changed as she determines that she has no reason to remain kind and pure-spirited. The edges of this transformation peek into scenes- a song sung in a crimson room for Oliver... or is it for Robert... or is it for herself. Eventually, she embraces her monster. Claire leaves us hope, however, hope for Mia's reformation and rebirth into humanity. I can only imagine Limerence II will give us some satisfaction in that respect.

Oliver... Oddly became a least favorite character for me. His response to situations seemed sometimes spineless, his fight for Mia at times felt halfhearted. There was a well-executed juxtaposition between Oliver's character in the first section of the novel- strong, confident, a willful lover- to Oliver's development as the pages turned. Eventually, Oliver's fate is decided and I, as the reader, do not know if I felt relief or sadness. Oliver's character also proved a lovely counterpoint to Mia. She gained strength as he lost motivation.

I happily recommend Limerence to others and it is my hope that I have provided enough information above without sacrificing a new reader's ability to 'discover' the surprises and nuances of Claire's work. I will finish the last chapters, breath held- knowing what is coming thanks to *spoilers* from others (naughty, you - you know who you are! There's a 'hide entire review because of spoilers' option right at the end of the review text box!)

Nod to Claire. 5-stars from this fan.
Profile Image for Karen Perkins.
Author 36 books244 followers
March 23, 2013
Mia's fiancé, Oliver, is a landscape gardener who has been hired by the absent new owner to redesign the gardens of the Mansion – the only residence on the Island. Robert Breckt proves to be handsome and charismatic, able to charm strangers into getting into his car – and straight into danger. It is clear that there is much more to Robert Breckt than meets the eye, and he has Mia in his sights.

The three protagonists meet as Oliver describes his new plans for the new garden to Mia. Neither of them can understand why Mr Breckt insists on pulling out anything natural and replacing the current beauty of the gardens with a clinical and stylised design. His complaints embarrassingly overheard by Mr Breckt, Oliver's day gets even worse as he realises the strength of the physical attraction between Mr Breckt and Mia. Mia has a choice to make as both men hold her hand and try to pull her towards them. It's touch and go, but she lets go of Breckt – which clearly astonishes him.

By now it is pretty clear that Breckt is no ordinary man, he is vampire, and he wants Mia.

Then women start to go missing. Kate disappears, but she has been talking about just taking off one day for years, so no one is particularly worried. And when Hayley doesn't turn up to work, she is cursed for not calling in sick. Emma quits by text message.

Mia seems to be having a strange effect on men – especially the ones new to town. She is uncomfortable and disturbed about the way her life has turned since she met Breckt, and is clinging tightly to her fiancé, Oliver, who is also behaving strangely.

Mr Breckt is as affected by Mia as she is by him. Breckt is here on a mission for his Queen to find 'special' humans – humans with abilities that they know nothing about. He is terrified that Mia may be one of these and that he will have to give her to his Queen rather than possessing her himself. Because he is determined to have her. Nobody has ever affected him this way before, and no one has ever told him 'no'. But he is not content with taking her, he goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure that she will choose to be with him. Both Mia and Oliver are in terrible danger.

Limerence is a wonderfully sensuous read. Sexy, sassy, suspenseful and exciting – in all sorts of ways – and very difficult to put down once you've started it. I couldn't help but like Mia. Compassionate and full of self-doubt, her confusion about the effect Breckt has on her feels all too real, and is masterfully written. The sexual tension between Mia and Breckt is contrasted nicely with the frustration of all three main characters as nobody gets what they want, and Claire C Riley is able to write seduction and sensation so well, she seduces her readers.

There are some wonderful descriptions – the hangover scene is so well written, I actually felt a headache coming on as I read, and the scenes of Mia singing from both her point of view, then Breckt's are spectacular. The dynamics between all the characters are very plausible, and I think this really brings them all to life (even the vampire!).

The story builds to a great climax, with twists, intrigue and surprises along the way and left me hungry for more. Claire, please hurry with the sequel!
Profile Image for Lynn Reynolds.
1,698 reviews39 followers
May 25, 2013
Rating 4 1/2 stars


This book starts off with a great dedication. Make sure that you don't miss it - you may even see your name. It's also written in the first person. Each chapter is named for the character that speaks to us.

Mia Lawrence and Oliver need to get to work but that doesn't that stop them from loving each other. What a great way to start off a book. Rachel is Mia's flat mate. There's a new man in town and his name is Robert Breckt. He's a man that knows how to use his "assets". I'm looking forward to seeing what Claire has in store for me.

Mia and Oliver seem to be a couple that really love each other. One day Mia comes to visit Oliver at work and meets Mr. Breckt. He's a man that can get anyone to do anything he wants. He's a very interesting "villain" that I cannot think of him by his first name. This is when our mystery begins - strange things have started to occur around town.

One thing that makes it a great story to me is that I can't figure it out. It has some romance in it but it's not the main focus. But then this is one of the reasons that I have to keep turning the page - I need to figure out the mystery. I also have two actors that come to mind when I think of Mr. Breckt - Frank Langella and Colin Farrell. I'm a fan of the old vampire movies and I can picture Claire's book made into one of them. I would buy a ticket to see how they interpreted her book.

One thing I think that makes Claire's story a little different is that she has Mia acting like we might if we came across a person that isn't all they seem to be. A lot of romances eventually have the heroine be accepting of people that are different from the norm. I found this story to be very realistic and believable. I do have to warn you that there is one scene that is very graphic and eating while reading may not be a great idea - let me just say that I'm glad that I didn't have ketchup on my turkey burger.

I thoroughly enjoyed Mia's story and was happy to see that Claire has a second book, Limerence II, coming out soon - Mia has me hooked. In the meantime if you still need a little push to get this book, stop by her site and watch the book trailer (http://www.clairecriley.com/limerence...).
Profile Image for Lauren.
125 reviews2 followers
March 27, 2013
First, this book is seriously one of the best horror/suspense novels I have read. Second, I loved that there was still splashes of romance, but it wasn't overbearing and irritating, taking away from the actual plot. Bravo! I absolutely loved it!

Limerence, full of twists and turns, kept me guessing. I couldn't figure out what was going on until it was revealed in the story, which is quite a feat. I have a knack for guessing what the big plot twist will be, whether it is a book or a movie. And what got me the most was the once we hit the plot's twist, I was so angry and heart broken; and then BAM! She got me again! I was fooled by Claire into thinking it was over. I actually thought that I was wrong and that this book was going to be a stand alone novel, even thought I knew that it was the first part in a series.

I loved that while the largest portion of the book was written in the first person point of view of Mia, we actually get to see the inner workings of our resident villain. It was wonderful reading his twisted and tormented thoughts. It almost made me feel sorry for him. Almost... But he is all kinds of dark and twisty, and there is no amount of sympathy left after finishing the story. I am curious though; it was obvious that he did love Mia, albeit a weird way to love someone (possibly the only way he knew how?), but there seemed to be more to it than just that. Once they are with the Queen, it's as if he felt the need to protect her... I can't really get too far into it or it really will spoil the whole experience of the story. So, once you've read it (that is a must, btw), email me so we can discuss the possibilities. And yes, they are endless!

I am now officially a huge fan of Claire's and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next! Best debut novel I have read!
Profile Image for Tanya Santiago.
119 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2013
This was a very interesting story line and I felt that overall, this book was really good. I am not used to reading dark thrillers but this one did not disappoint. Mia and Oliver are very much in love which is very sweet. Oliver is a landscaper and is working on the “island” for the new owner who just purchased the property. The book takes a turn when Mr. Breckt, the owner sees Mia and decides that he wants her. VERY MUCH. Although Mia is drawn to Mr. Breckt but it is not of her own will. He is constantly using his powers to try to make her sway.

The book takes another sharp turn when Oliver suddenly has to travel to London because for his job and Mia is essentially left alone to deal with Oliver leaving and this is where Mr. Breckt tries to have his way with her. Essentially, I am glad that Mia’s love for Oliver overruled her feelings towards Mr. Breckt. The story was very slow up until this point and I really do like how the action picked up once Mia is turned against her will. I also must say that I really do like Mia as a vampire once she was able to control her urges and power.

The ending was good but very heartbreaking and I get a sense that there will be other twists to this story. I am looking forward to reading the next installment of Mia’s story and I cannot wait to see what the Queen has in store for her.

Overall, this was a good read and I give 4 out of 5 stars. The story started off slow in the beginning but the once the story picks up, I finished it within a few hours!

**A copy of this book was supplied by the author in return for an honest review.**
Profile Image for Paranormal Books R Us.
461 reviews31 followers
November 17, 2014
Mia had it all a wonderful family, great best friend, and the love of Oliver the most amazing finance a girl could ask for. So when the mysterious Mr. Brecket moves to town she can't understand the strange feelings that overcome her when he's near. She knows she loves Oliver with all her heart but can't keep from thinking about Mr. Brecket constantly. Little does Mia know Robert Brecket is more than he appears and will do whatever it takes to make her his no matter what the cost.
The first half was a little slow for me and the jumping back and forth between all the different character's points of view was a lot to follow but once the action really started it was hard to put down! Even though Mia was broken she made a choice and was strong enough to come out the other side albeit a completely different person. The new Mia seems to be a force to be reckoned with and I am very interested in seeing how far her revenge will reach and just how far she's willing to go to accomplish it. In my opinion Limerence is worth a read.
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