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The Crimson Series #1
Crimson Groves
2013 National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist
2012 Voted Best New Author by Popular Book Blog Nose Graze
Abigail Tate was a normal human girl—until the day Bronx the vampire barges into her life and turns her against her will. Held captive while forced to deal with never-ending cravings for blood, Abby prays for a way to escape. Only when an opportunity arises, it’s with the aid of an innocent human named Tyler—except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby quickly learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can either help her or get her killed. Only Abby soon discovers that she is the one with the biggest secret of all. **June 2012 Extras added to the book (including the first chapter of the sequel Crimson Flames (book #2 of The Crimson Series)**
2012 Voted Best New Author by Popular Book Blog Nose Graze
Abigail Tate was a normal human girl—until the day Bronx the vampire barges into her life and turns her against her will. Held captive while forced to deal with never-ending cravings for blood, Abby prays for a way to escape. Only when an opportunity arises, it’s with the aid of an innocent human named Tyler—except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby quickly learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can either help her or get her killed. Only Abby soon discovers that she is the one with the biggest secret of all. **June 2012 Extras added to the book (including the first chapter of the sequel Crimson Flames (book #2 of The Crimson Series)**
282 pages, Nook
First published January 1, 2011
13 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Robertson
13 books533 followersA reader fueled by matcha, magic, and fantasy romance books. Also here for learning, growing, and deepening inner acceptance and peace. Always open to recommendations, both fiction and non.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 8, 2012
3½ stars out of 5 stars
I let my ideas and thoughts about Ashley Robertson’s Crimson Groves rattle around in my brain for a few days before writing my review. During the rattling process, I discovered that the most appropriate way for me to review this introductory YA novel is to compile a pros and cons list. So, dear reader, here goes nothing!
Cons:
1. Abby. Abby is the lead female in this novel and is a way too trusting sucker (HA!)! On several occasions I found myself wanting to yell at her to pull her head out of her butt and stop trusting every single Tom, Dick, and vampire she encountered. Abby’s trusting nature gets her into a ton of trouble far too often. Seriously, how many times does she have to be betrayed before she learns?
2. Abby’s dad. For me, Abby’s dad was pretty much useless in the overall plot. I know this sounds harsh, but his appearances were so brief that they truly would not have been missed had they been completely eliminated from the novel.
3. The overall time frame is just too short for me. So much action is spread across a lot of land and packed into such a short amount of time that it causes the plot to feel rushed and unrealistic.
4. Backstory: I am a big, big fan of backstory, and Crimson Groves just didn’t have enough for me. More, please!
Pros:
1. Abby. To be fair, Abby does have some shining moments, however infrequent. I am hoping these moments will become more frequent and shinier in subsequent installments of the series. Also, Robertson has given Abby a pretty cool and rather unusual twist to her vampire powers.
2. Bronx. Originally, I had Bronx listed among the cons, but, once I actually wrote about him, I realized he is a very well-written character despite his awfulness. I think I can safely say Bronx is the single most heinous and vile character in this novel. His actions, comments, and very presence made my skin crawl. I desperately wanted something awful to happen to him. Kudos to you, Ashley Robertson, for creating such a despicable character.
3. The minor cast of characters. This novel has a bevy of minor characters that I would very much encourage Robertson to more fully develop in future installments of this series. For example, the über-powerful Head Council is absolutely intriguing, the vampire Stone seems as if he could be much, much more to Abby then just a friend, and Abby’s mother, while she won’t be able to make an actual appearance in future novels, has a backstory that could be a big, big part of the Crimson Series future.
The bottom line: In order to be completely honest, I don’t feel like I can rate this first-in-a-series novel higher than 3½ stars out of 5. Since I refuse to end on a negative note, I offer the following: 1) I never got so frustrated with this novel that I wanted to quit reading, and 2) I can absolutely see a great deal of potential in this series’ future!
I let my ideas and thoughts about Ashley Robertson’s Crimson Groves rattle around in my brain for a few days before writing my review. During the rattling process, I discovered that the most appropriate way for me to review this introductory YA novel is to compile a pros and cons list. So, dear reader, here goes nothing!
Cons:
1. Abby. Abby is the lead female in this novel and is a way too trusting sucker (HA!)! On several occasions I found myself wanting to yell at her to pull her head out of her butt and stop trusting every single Tom, Dick, and vampire she encountered. Abby’s trusting nature gets her into a ton of trouble far too often. Seriously, how many times does she have to be betrayed before she learns?
2. Abby’s dad. For me, Abby’s dad was pretty much useless in the overall plot. I know this sounds harsh, but his appearances were so brief that they truly would not have been missed had they been completely eliminated from the novel.
3. The overall time frame is just too short for me. So much action is spread across a lot of land and packed into such a short amount of time that it causes the plot to feel rushed and unrealistic.
4. Backstory: I am a big, big fan of backstory, and Crimson Groves just didn’t have enough for me. More, please!
Pros:
1. Abby. To be fair, Abby does have some shining moments, however infrequent. I am hoping these moments will become more frequent and shinier in subsequent installments of the series. Also, Robertson has given Abby a pretty cool and rather unusual twist to her vampire powers.
2. Bronx. Originally, I had Bronx listed among the cons, but, once I actually wrote about him, I realized he is a very well-written character despite his awfulness. I think I can safely say Bronx is the single most heinous and vile character in this novel. His actions, comments, and very presence made my skin crawl. I desperately wanted something awful to happen to him. Kudos to you, Ashley Robertson, for creating such a despicable character.
3. The minor cast of characters. This novel has a bevy of minor characters that I would very much encourage Robertson to more fully develop in future installments of this series. For example, the über-powerful Head Council is absolutely intriguing, the vampire Stone seems as if he could be much, much more to Abby then just a friend, and Abby’s mother, while she won’t be able to make an actual appearance in future novels, has a backstory that could be a big, big part of the Crimson Series future.
The bottom line: In order to be completely honest, I don’t feel like I can rate this first-in-a-series novel higher than 3½ stars out of 5. Since I refuse to end on a negative note, I offer the following: 1) I never got so frustrated with this novel that I wanted to quit reading, and 2) I can absolutely see a great deal of potential in this series’ future!
July 12, 2012
Abby is being held captive by Bronx, the Vampire who has turned her into a vampire against her will. Bronx tries to force Abby to fall in love with him, however, just the opposite happens.
The one night Bronx takes Abby out, she meets Tyler. He helps her to not only escape from Bronx, but to learn other powers she may have. Thing is Tyler already know who Abby is and what she can do, although Tyler is not a vampire he does have an ability of his own, he has premonitions. As Tyler and Abby learn more of one another, they start falling for each other.
Since Abby has been turned, she needs blood in order to survive. She gets in contact with the only person she feels she can trust, Lilly, one of the blood donors she had befriended while at Bronx's. Lilly sends Abby an email of Vamp owned places that have blood donors.
When Abby meets Stone, the owner of a bar named Pulse, she's surprised to find that even after Stone finds out she's hiding from Bronx, he's still willing to help her. Soon Stone starts to have feelings for Abby and warns her against someone she trusts.
Soon she finds out she has been betrayed by one of her friends. Bronx has captured Abby once again. Will she be able to be rid of herself of Bronx once and for all? And more important, who betrayed her?
Ashley Robertson really out did herself with Crimson Groves. I LOVED it!! This was another one of those books that once I started I couldn't put the book down till it was finished and STILL wanted more. So when I was finished, I immediately contacted Ashley and asked her if there was going to be a sequel ....And guess what??!!.. There is! The next book will be Crimson Rain!
Crimson Groves was very enticing, straight from the get go, I was hooked. In most books the girl has one or two hot guys after her, but Abby has three hot guys!!! Yeah a couple may be a bit loony, but what ya gonna do? At first I had trouble understanding Bronx, but once I got further into the story it was like " oh yeah, I definitely got your number, you psychopath" lol. Then my heart went out to both Tyler and Stone. They both fell for Abby, however I am definitely Team Tyler. Oh, and then the BIG TWIST! OMG! Definitely not giving that away, so you'll just have to check out Crimson Groves for yourself!
The one night Bronx takes Abby out, she meets Tyler. He helps her to not only escape from Bronx, but to learn other powers she may have. Thing is Tyler already know who Abby is and what she can do, although Tyler is not a vampire he does have an ability of his own, he has premonitions. As Tyler and Abby learn more of one another, they start falling for each other.
Since Abby has been turned, she needs blood in order to survive. She gets in contact with the only person she feels she can trust, Lilly, one of the blood donors she had befriended while at Bronx's. Lilly sends Abby an email of Vamp owned places that have blood donors.
When Abby meets Stone, the owner of a bar named Pulse, she's surprised to find that even after Stone finds out she's hiding from Bronx, he's still willing to help her. Soon Stone starts to have feelings for Abby and warns her against someone she trusts.
Soon she finds out she has been betrayed by one of her friends. Bronx has captured Abby once again. Will she be able to be rid of herself of Bronx once and for all? And more important, who betrayed her?
Ashley Robertson really out did herself with Crimson Groves. I LOVED it!! This was another one of those books that once I started I couldn't put the book down till it was finished and STILL wanted more. So when I was finished, I immediately contacted Ashley and asked her if there was going to be a sequel ....And guess what??!!.. There is! The next book will be Crimson Rain!
Crimson Groves was very enticing, straight from the get go, I was hooked. In most books the girl has one or two hot guys after her, but Abby has three hot guys!!! Yeah a couple may be a bit loony, but what ya gonna do? At first I had trouble understanding Bronx, but once I got further into the story it was like " oh yeah, I definitely got your number, you psychopath" lol. Then my heart went out to both Tyler and Stone. They both fell for Abby, however I am definitely Team Tyler. Oh, and then the BIG TWIST! OMG! Definitely not giving that away, so you'll just have to check out Crimson Groves for yourself!
August 26, 2012
There are a lot of stories out there about Vampires, be it Nosferatu style or sparkly. I have found when reading them that a lot don't go into a tremendous amount of detail about how hard it is to adjust to the vampiric lifestyle. Many stories give you one or two chapters about their transition, but this is a story completely about Abby's struggle. It takes place about over the course of about 3 months (but I could be wrong) with the very beginning of the story explaining to you how she wound up being turned into a vampire.
Abby has been estranged from her mother, her father abandoned her at an early age, and she recently found her boyfriend in bed with her best friend. She is alone with the exception of her bar tending co-worker. In the same night, she receives a phone call from her dad with a warning about someone coming after her. She blows off the call and then finds herself buried in a stranger's eyes. She finds herself so completely attracted to him that she nearly ignores all her other customers to dote and flirt with him. Bronx, the handsome stranger, offers to walk her home after work which results in her going to his house for a make out session gone bad. She's turned into a vampire completely against her will all because he claims he is lonely. He wants her to become his eternal lover. Problem is that once she turns into a vampire, she is no longer attracted to him.
The rest of the story is all about her escape from Bronx. She starts falling in love with a man named Tyler, who is the one who helped her escape, and she begins learning a lot about other vampires in her search for food. She learns a lot about herself and that she is truly special. You'll have to read the book to find out just how special she is. It was refreshing to read a story that told about how a new vampire has to struggle to control her urges and to survive. Her situation isn't one that leads to adapting to her new lifestyle easily. I was pleasantly surprised with how the story went and how it turned out. I am definitely interested in book two.
Read more reviews at Identity Discovery blog.
Abby has been estranged from her mother, her father abandoned her at an early age, and she recently found her boyfriend in bed with her best friend. She is alone with the exception of her bar tending co-worker. In the same night, she receives a phone call from her dad with a warning about someone coming after her. She blows off the call and then finds herself buried in a stranger's eyes. She finds herself so completely attracted to him that she nearly ignores all her other customers to dote and flirt with him. Bronx, the handsome stranger, offers to walk her home after work which results in her going to his house for a make out session gone bad. She's turned into a vampire completely against her will all because he claims he is lonely. He wants her to become his eternal lover. Problem is that once she turns into a vampire, she is no longer attracted to him.
The rest of the story is all about her escape from Bronx. She starts falling in love with a man named Tyler, who is the one who helped her escape, and she begins learning a lot about other vampires in her search for food. She learns a lot about herself and that she is truly special. You'll have to read the book to find out just how special she is. It was refreshing to read a story that told about how a new vampire has to struggle to control her urges and to survive. Her situation isn't one that leads to adapting to her new lifestyle easily. I was pleasantly surprised with how the story went and how it turned out. I am definitely interested in book two.
Read more reviews at Identity Discovery blog.
February 17, 2017
When it comes to my reading habits, I have been on a Scandinavian Mystery Marathon lately. So, when I picked up this book about Vampires, I came back to Vampires with a fresh mind. Let’s face it, when picking one book, the sheer number of books available in the market makes you wonder about how original a book can get when you have already read about a bunch of them.
Ashley Robertson’s Crimson Groves introduces us to Abby – an average teenager who is nursing a broken heart and works at a bar. Enter Bronx as a handsome distraction from her aching heart. He manages to capture Abby’s attention long enough to get a chance of turning her. What follows is a long stint within four walls for Abby. While she tries to learn how to control her craving for blood, she has only Bronx for company. Little by little, we learn about the world that the author has created. A world where there are blood donors for the vampires, where the ‘bitten’ and the ‘unbitten’ are not allowed to socialize, where magic exists and where everyone has a secret.
It was an interesting experience to read this book. While the character of our protagonist Abby seemed pretty average to me, I felt that Bronx was a character that everyone would love to hate. You know how you hated Umbridge? Yeah, that’s how you are going to feel about Bronx! Very irritating and you’d wish that he’d just drop dead at times... but at the same time you know that the story wouldn’t have been the same without him. The plot again isn’t something extraordinary, but something that I ‘liked’. The narration style was smooth. The only thing is that when I stand back and look at the story again, I feel as if the ‘incidents’ were a bit rushed. When Bronx finally lets Abby out, things happen in quick succession and are packed in a very short period of time.
Overall, this book was quite a fast read and fun. Take a chance with it…
Ashley Robertson’s Crimson Groves introduces us to Abby – an average teenager who is nursing a broken heart and works at a bar. Enter Bronx as a handsome distraction from her aching heart. He manages to capture Abby’s attention long enough to get a chance of turning her. What follows is a long stint within four walls for Abby. While she tries to learn how to control her craving for blood, she has only Bronx for company. Little by little, we learn about the world that the author has created. A world where there are blood donors for the vampires, where the ‘bitten’ and the ‘unbitten’ are not allowed to socialize, where magic exists and where everyone has a secret.
It was an interesting experience to read this book. While the character of our protagonist Abby seemed pretty average to me, I felt that Bronx was a character that everyone would love to hate. You know how you hated Umbridge? Yeah, that’s how you are going to feel about Bronx! Very irritating and you’d wish that he’d just drop dead at times... but at the same time you know that the story wouldn’t have been the same without him. The plot again isn’t something extraordinary, but something that I ‘liked’. The narration style was smooth. The only thing is that when I stand back and look at the story again, I feel as if the ‘incidents’ were a bit rushed. When Bronx finally lets Abby out, things happen in quick succession and are packed in a very short period of time.
Overall, this book was quite a fast read and fun. Take a chance with it…
July 11, 2012
When I started Crimson Groves I totally thought I was going to give this book 3 stars. I liked it but I was not in love with it. Once I got over the hump (which is only a few short chapters) I was sucked in. I was invested in Abby's story. I was cheering for her. I wanted that creep Bronx dead as a doornail and I wanted Abby to kill him. I was cheering, laughing, groaning with the story. I hid in my bedroom, I hid in the bathroom, I hid wherever I could just to be able to read more of this book. My poor daughter was neglected because of Abby. LOL. What a wild ride. Bronx was a beautifully written. He was honestly the most rounded out character, and I hated him. Abby was relatedable. I loved Stone. I didn't like Tyler. I can't even tell you why and why not I didn't like any of these characters. There is no way to do so without giving away too much.
This book was well written and edited. No distracting typos. You can tell that Ms. Robertson cares about her characters and her fans. She truly has a knack for writing the supernatural. She writes monsters but gives them humanity. Or not. Depending on the need of the story. While these books are more romance than horror she CAN write horror. She has a true monster here in this book. Her vampires are completely cabable of horrible things. They are also capable of love. I cannot gush enough about this book.
I cannot wait to read the next book. Thank you Ashley for seeking me out to review your books. I greatly enjoyed them.
This book was well written and edited. No distracting typos. You can tell that Ms. Robertson cares about her characters and her fans. She truly has a knack for writing the supernatural. She writes monsters but gives them humanity. Or not. Depending on the need of the story. While these books are more romance than horror she CAN write horror. She has a true monster here in this book. Her vampires are completely cabable of horrible things. They are also capable of love. I cannot gush enough about this book.
I cannot wait to read the next book. Thank you Ashley for seeking me out to review your books. I greatly enjoyed them.
April 19, 2012
Abby Tate is having a average work day, when vampire Bronx walks into the bar and changes her life. He seduces Abby, changing her against her will - keeping her captive. Eager to escape her hell, she finds hope in a human.
Good story! I love vampire stories and read a lot of them, so I'm always look for something different and Crimson Grove definitely fits the bill. It was captivating and suspenseful. The first two chapters alone had me on the edge of my seat. Abby is a great character. She is written in such a way that makes her very real. Ms. Robertson has a wonderful writing voice. Vampire lovers will want to gobble this one up.
Good story! I love vampire stories and read a lot of them, so I'm always look for something different and Crimson Grove definitely fits the bill. It was captivating and suspenseful. The first two chapters alone had me on the edge of my seat. Abby is a great character. She is written in such a way that makes her very real. Ms. Robertson has a wonderful writing voice. Vampire lovers will want to gobble this one up.
July 14, 2012
In Crimson Groves we start off with Abby going through her mundane life and arguing with, I guess, her ex best friend and ex boyfriend. Seems to be a little bit of soap opera-ness with the boyfriend falling for the girlfriend’s best friend? I would be mad too. But any whoo. Abby goes through her day to day bartending job when she gets a call from her long lost dad stating “ He’s coming to find you. He knows how special you are. You can’t let him find you.” Abby hangs up on him but regrets it when he calls back and in the background she hears sounds of a struggle and the line goes dead. She pushes it to the side because she has a job to do and the man just now reentered her life after how many years. Enters Bronx a Vampire with a hidden agenda. He encounters Abby shortly after her encounter with her dad, so she is a little vulnerable. Of course Bronx uses this to his advantage. He talks to Abby all night and wins her over and gets her to go home with him. Once Bronx Has Abby safely in his home, he turns her. Bronx gives Abby this spill about his love Meredith leaving him and going off to be with the Enforcers, Vampire police. He says that he has searched all around for her replacement and he has found it in her. Basically he thinks they are soulmates, Abby doesn’t think so. Bronx trains her as a Vampire but each day he tries to inch his way closer to Abby. One a trip to a bar Pulse Bronx attempts to rape her but luckily the bouncer saves her. He sends her to the bar to give Bronx time to cool off where she meets Tyler, a man of many secrets. With one touch of Tyler’s hand she is hit with a vision that looks like a memory but what she is seeing hasn’t happened yet. Tyler can see the future and he sees that he has to save Abby’s life. They escape together and go on the run from Bronx. They met another Vampire named Stone who gives Abby some much needed info on being a Vampire and Bronx himself. Abby starts to realize that she is different and she is not like all other Vampires she has powers. This is why Bronx wanted her and she find this out when she is kidnapped by the man she thought she could trust and sent back to Bronx. Things with Bronx come to a fiery end. With him gone now Abby can seek out the answers about herself and figure out where to go from here.
Abby seems to take her new life in stride. I mean she has her break downs but otherwise she is head strong throughout the book. Even when she realized that she got stabbed in the back. I won't say who it was but she was hurt by this person's actions. I think that if it had happened to her as a human it may have broken her. Being a Vampire and knowing that you are stronger than most has seemed to change Abby in a good way. It doesn't all go to her head. Her goal is to do good and prevent what happened to her. Right now she has to find out more about her past and I look forward to reading more about that in the second book.
Ashley seems to have a thing with thrusting the heroine between two hot guys, in this case Tyler and Stone. They each care for her in their own special way. Tyler is more of "I know your deep dark secrets because hello I can see the future love". While Stone seems to be more of an "You intrigue me kinda love". I usually choose sides but in this case I want to see how it works out.
The thing I didn't like was that some things were not fully explained. I guess that is to keep us on our toes until the next in the series is released and the answers are hopefully revealed.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I think that this is an entertaining read. I enjoy reading her work. Ashley has a unique take on the YA and Paranormal genres that appeals to older teens and adults alike. It is always an interesting read. Great job.
I recieved a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Abby seems to take her new life in stride. I mean she has her break downs but otherwise she is head strong throughout the book. Even when she realized that she got stabbed in the back. I won't say who it was but she was hurt by this person's actions. I think that if it had happened to her as a human it may have broken her. Being a Vampire and knowing that you are stronger than most has seemed to change Abby in a good way. It doesn't all go to her head. Her goal is to do good and prevent what happened to her. Right now she has to find out more about her past and I look forward to reading more about that in the second book.
Ashley seems to have a thing with thrusting the heroine between two hot guys, in this case Tyler and Stone. They each care for her in their own special way. Tyler is more of "I know your deep dark secrets because hello I can see the future love". While Stone seems to be more of an "You intrigue me kinda love". I usually choose sides but in this case I want to see how it works out.
The thing I didn't like was that some things were not fully explained. I guess that is to keep us on our toes until the next in the series is released and the answers are hopefully revealed.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I think that this is an entertaining read. I enjoy reading her work. Ashley has a unique take on the YA and Paranormal genres that appeals to older teens and adults alike. It is always an interesting read. Great job.
I recieved a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2012
We start off with our MC Abby. She is going through a pretty dark time in her life. Found her boyfriend screwing her best friend six months ago, hates her job, her daddy left her when she was little, her mother accused her of being the reason her daddy left her, she is very sad and lonely. While at work one night she meets handsome Bronx who does a little vampire hypnosis on her and brings her back to his house. He then forcefully changes her into a vampire against her will. Try as he will, he simply cannot make her love him.
After being confined to the house for a month, Bronx finally takes her out to a night club. While there he tries to force himself on her and is stopped by the Enforcers. While he is cooling off and getting himself under control Abby meets Tyler, a human, who shares with her his vision that he is helping her escape from Bronx and that she can trust him. When a fight breaks out they make their escape.
After contacting a blood donor who is a friend of Abby's she gets a list of clubs and bars that cater to vampires and have blood donors on hand. At one of these places she meets Stone. Stone is a vampire with the ability to learn about a person by drinking their blood. He is an Enforcer but is not turning her over to Bronx or the High Council. With Stone's help she is able control a new found abilty and use it when necessary. I have to admit here that Abby having Pyrokinetic abilities and getting a heartbeat while using that ability reminds me an awful lot of Cat in Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress Series. However, this book is nothing like that series, nor is the MC anything like Cat, so it does not hurt my impression of this book at all.
What follows is Abby learning more about herself and Tyler, all the while fighting her feelings for him. Tyler claims to have fallen in love with her months ago just from his visions of her. Once Abby feels stong enough to take on Bronx she leaves both Tyler and Stone in search of Bronx so she can finally kill him and be free. Of course nothing is that simple. Broken promises, deception, and betrayal soon follow Abby. We learn more about Abby's past, and just what her future may or may not hold.
I liked Abby a lot more than I liked the MC from Ms. Robertson's other book UnGuarded. Abby is tough and spunky. She knows when to hold her tongue and when to lash out. I liked that about her. I have no idea why but this is the 2nd book I have read of Ms. Robertson's that I do not like what is perceived as the main love interest of our MC. I do not like Tyler! Not at all! In fact I was rooting for Abby to kill him! I really wanted her to rip his throat or drain him dry! I like Stone. I am Team Stone. LOL I tried to like Tyler, I really did, but I just cant do it.
At the end of the book we get a little excerpt from the 2nd book in this series Crimson Rain. I cant wait for the next book! I am so glad that I found this Author, or I should say she found us. Great books, highly recommended reading material here! Ashley you have a lifetime fan here!
After being confined to the house for a month, Bronx finally takes her out to a night club. While there he tries to force himself on her and is stopped by the Enforcers. While he is cooling off and getting himself under control Abby meets Tyler, a human, who shares with her his vision that he is helping her escape from Bronx and that she can trust him. When a fight breaks out they make their escape.
After contacting a blood donor who is a friend of Abby's she gets a list of clubs and bars that cater to vampires and have blood donors on hand. At one of these places she meets Stone. Stone is a vampire with the ability to learn about a person by drinking their blood. He is an Enforcer but is not turning her over to Bronx or the High Council. With Stone's help she is able control a new found abilty and use it when necessary. I have to admit here that Abby having Pyrokinetic abilities and getting a heartbeat while using that ability reminds me an awful lot of Cat in Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress Series. However, this book is nothing like that series, nor is the MC anything like Cat, so it does not hurt my impression of this book at all.
What follows is Abby learning more about herself and Tyler, all the while fighting her feelings for him. Tyler claims to have fallen in love with her months ago just from his visions of her. Once Abby feels stong enough to take on Bronx she leaves both Tyler and Stone in search of Bronx so she can finally kill him and be free. Of course nothing is that simple. Broken promises, deception, and betrayal soon follow Abby. We learn more about Abby's past, and just what her future may or may not hold.
I liked Abby a lot more than I liked the MC from Ms. Robertson's other book UnGuarded. Abby is tough and spunky. She knows when to hold her tongue and when to lash out. I liked that about her. I have no idea why but this is the 2nd book I have read of Ms. Robertson's that I do not like what is perceived as the main love interest of our MC. I do not like Tyler! Not at all! In fact I was rooting for Abby to kill him! I really wanted her to rip his throat or drain him dry! I like Stone. I am Team Stone. LOL I tried to like Tyler, I really did, but I just cant do it.
At the end of the book we get a little excerpt from the 2nd book in this series Crimson Rain. I cant wait for the next book! I am so glad that I found this Author, or I should say she found us. Great books, highly recommended reading material here! Ashley you have a lifetime fan here!
October 13, 2012
Honestly the beginning of this book was extremely difficult to get through. However, I am persistent so I do not give up easily.
Crimson Groves starts off with the main character Abigail Tate trudging through life in a state of depression and hating life. She has broken up with her boyfriend after catching him with her best friend. Which if you don't know is sooo against the girlfriend code. While at work one night she gets a call from her long gone father and in the next moment finds herself face-to-face with Bronx. She immediately feels an instant attraction even though in the back of her mind she thinks something is wrong.
"Why did I want to get back to him so badly? Desire and lust rushed my heart like a stampede. My mind wrestled in trying to make sense of these over-the-top feelings. Thoughts on how I didn’t know him zigzagged between wanting to know him and needing to feel close to him."
When Bronx starts to walk her home she is surprised by when she ends up in a dark house, and then she's being bitten, and she knows she's dying. Then she wakes up, to see Bronx her capture smiling and telling her she is his forever. He keeps her hostage in his house, always watching her, while her hate grows and grows towards him. He starts teaching her how to be a vampire, how to fight, how to use compulsion which was one of my favorite scenes:
"I felt a sly smile curve my lips. You know those stupid facial expressions that give you away when you’re up to something that can get you into trouble? I didn’t want to smile, but it happened anyway. I envisioned Celeste punching Bronx in the face. I nudged that thought inside her mind as if getting her attention with my hands. She grinned at me, turned to Bronx, and hit him square in the nose—hard enough to make him bleed, but that was all."
Then one night Bronx decides to take her out to a vampire club where he attacks her. Then out of nowhere a boy named Tyler claiming to be her savior takes her away.
A series of events takes place and unravels just how evil Bronx is. Abby doesn't know who to trust, who's out to get her and who isn't. When she starts to put the pieces together she realizes she's been a pawn in Bronx's game, and that she may have trusted the wrong person with her life, and her love.
Not necessarily my favorite vampire book of all time, and for me it was a bit of a slow read. However, I am totally going to be reading the second book Crimson Flames.
Favorite Quote:
"I didn’t have to be a vampire to know she was being a bitch. That’s something a woman can sense easily from other women, whether human, vampire, or anything else. I don’t need any advanced senses to determine that."
Crimson Groves starts off with the main character Abigail Tate trudging through life in a state of depression and hating life. She has broken up with her boyfriend after catching him with her best friend. Which if you don't know is sooo against the girlfriend code. While at work one night she gets a call from her long gone father and in the next moment finds herself face-to-face with Bronx. She immediately feels an instant attraction even though in the back of her mind she thinks something is wrong.
"Why did I want to get back to him so badly? Desire and lust rushed my heart like a stampede. My mind wrestled in trying to make sense of these over-the-top feelings. Thoughts on how I didn’t know him zigzagged between wanting to know him and needing to feel close to him."
When Bronx starts to walk her home she is surprised by when she ends up in a dark house, and then she's being bitten, and she knows she's dying. Then she wakes up, to see Bronx her capture smiling and telling her she is his forever. He keeps her hostage in his house, always watching her, while her hate grows and grows towards him. He starts teaching her how to be a vampire, how to fight, how to use compulsion which was one of my favorite scenes:
"I felt a sly smile curve my lips. You know those stupid facial expressions that give you away when you’re up to something that can get you into trouble? I didn’t want to smile, but it happened anyway. I envisioned Celeste punching Bronx in the face. I nudged that thought inside her mind as if getting her attention with my hands. She grinned at me, turned to Bronx, and hit him square in the nose—hard enough to make him bleed, but that was all."
Then one night Bronx decides to take her out to a vampire club where he attacks her. Then out of nowhere a boy named Tyler claiming to be her savior takes her away.
A series of events takes place and unravels just how evil Bronx is. Abby doesn't know who to trust, who's out to get her and who isn't. When she starts to put the pieces together she realizes she's been a pawn in Bronx's game, and that she may have trusted the wrong person with her life, and her love.
Not necessarily my favorite vampire book of all time, and for me it was a bit of a slow read. However, I am totally going to be reading the second book Crimson Flames.
Favorite Quote:
"I didn’t have to be a vampire to know she was being a bitch. That’s something a woman can sense easily from other women, whether human, vampire, or anything else. I don’t need any advanced senses to determine that."
September 28, 2012
I was lucky enough to have won “Crimson Groves” as a first reads on goodreads, and I have to say that it was a excellent and spectacular book!!! WOW what a book.
Thank you so much Author Ashley Robertson for the chance to enjoy “Crimson Groves”, the first in the series.
Crimson Groves revolves around the main character Abby, who works as a bartender at a upscale restaurant. Abby has been going through a huge rough patch in her life for the last 6 months.
She receives a phone call from her estranged father out of the blue on night at work, and he wasn’t calling to catch up on things or even to say sorry for walking out on her and her mother all those years ago!!! Nope, he was calling for one reason only… to WARN her, to tell her that they know HOW SPECIAL she is, and that they are coming after her!
Abbey doesn’t have a clue what he is talking about.
That very same day as she received the call from her father, a strikingly handsome man (Bronx) walks into the bar where she works, they seem to have a instant connection. (or is it?)
Abby welcomes the new found friendship, (I was yelling at Abby, NO….. watch out) after a couple of hours of chatting with him, when she gets off of work Bronx offers to walk her home, (yikes) he has a hidden interest in Abby… RUN Abby RUN, don’t go with him. Why oh why don’t kids listen to what their parents tell them? Don’t they know we say things for a reason? *shakes head*
Crimson Groves captivated me in the first chapter, and it had me totally surprised with all the paranormal unexpected twists and turns that were so well placed throughout the whole story. I found Ashley’s writing style so intriguing that I read this book in three nights!!! (I actually read it twice)
This paranormal book is packed full of suspense that will keep you reading well into the night, phenomenal characters, love, betrayal (LOTS), vampires, (love them) and o much more than I’m willing to say because it will give away some spoilers in Crimson Grove.
If you haven’t started this series yet you really are missing out on a spectacular read. And I suggest that you take a hard look at it… Author Ashley Robertson will have you hooked and coming back for more, and wanting more just like it has me. I LOVED, LOVED it and can’t wait to get my hands on book #2, Crimson Rain to see what’s happening to Abby..
Mental note to self:
GET CRIMSON RAIN
Recommend: YA
Rating: 4.5/5 angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
Thank you so much Author Ashley Robertson for the chance to enjoy “Crimson Groves”, the first in the series.
Crimson Groves revolves around the main character Abby, who works as a bartender at a upscale restaurant. Abby has been going through a huge rough patch in her life for the last 6 months.
She receives a phone call from her estranged father out of the blue on night at work, and he wasn’t calling to catch up on things or even to say sorry for walking out on her and her mother all those years ago!!! Nope, he was calling for one reason only… to WARN her, to tell her that they know HOW SPECIAL she is, and that they are coming after her!
Abbey doesn’t have a clue what he is talking about.
That very same day as she received the call from her father, a strikingly handsome man (Bronx) walks into the bar where she works, they seem to have a instant connection. (or is it?)
Abby welcomes the new found friendship, (I was yelling at Abby, NO….. watch out) after a couple of hours of chatting with him, when she gets off of work Bronx offers to walk her home, (yikes) he has a hidden interest in Abby… RUN Abby RUN, don’t go with him. Why oh why don’t kids listen to what their parents tell them? Don’t they know we say things for a reason? *shakes head*
Crimson Groves captivated me in the first chapter, and it had me totally surprised with all the paranormal unexpected twists and turns that were so well placed throughout the whole story. I found Ashley’s writing style so intriguing that I read this book in three nights!!! (I actually read it twice)
This paranormal book is packed full of suspense that will keep you reading well into the night, phenomenal characters, love, betrayal (LOTS), vampires, (love them) and o much more than I’m willing to say because it will give away some spoilers in Crimson Grove.
If you haven’t started this series yet you really are missing out on a spectacular read. And I suggest that you take a hard look at it… Author Ashley Robertson will have you hooked and coming back for more, and wanting more just like it has me. I LOVED, LOVED it and can’t wait to get my hands on book #2, Crimson Rain to see what’s happening to Abby..
Mental note to self:
GET CRIMSON RAIN
Recommend: YA
Rating: 4.5/5 angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
March 22, 2013
I am actually torn between a 3.5 and a 4. *sigh* I hate the inbetween. For the sake of being difficult, I am going to say a 3.6. lol. because I can.
I can admit first and foremost that I loved Abigail as a character.
I was upset with this book at some point while reading it and almost put it down when I came to the part I was struggling with, but Abby's strength and commentary were my favorite part of the book and that kept me reading on through to the end. And I am glad I did. The ending healed me a small bit and I am back to how I felt starting the book- Excited. What is going to happen in book two? I am intrigued and fascinated by the twist the author has created with Vampires. It is always nice to see how an author is going to mold and warp the vampire legends to make them their own. (: I mean, what is the point in writing another vampire novel if you aren't going to spice it up a little bit? :D
I am happy to report that while it is a twist, her take on vampires is not too outlandish so as to make you groan. Not going into details or anything, but there are both good and bad vampires. The bad ones in this book are hard core and you CANNOT have a good book, in my opinion, without a hard core bad guy. ;) So high marks in that department. And wowza! [well played with that bad guy, lady.]
The good guys, however are not so cut and dried. Now that I have finished the book and have my emotions sort of in order, I can appreciate. Intrigue is something you want to keep in a book to keep readers interested. There certainly is a lot of that in this book. O.O
However, and I hate to mention this... I can do without the main character having every Tom, Dick, and Jane (er.. James?) interested in her. I shall persevere, however, like every dedicated reader and violently hope she ends up with who I want her to be with. Because if not, I believe my heart shall be irreparable damaged. :O
Good Book. Nice Twist on Vamps. Love the intrigue, the bad guys and the main character<3. Could do without the one element, but I guess that is just me. All in all, pretty good read. :D
I can admit first and foremost that I loved Abigail as a character.
I was upset with this book at some point while reading it and almost put it down when I came to the part I was struggling with, but Abby's strength and commentary were my favorite part of the book and that kept me reading on through to the end. And I am glad I did. The ending healed me a small bit and I am back to how I felt starting the book- Excited. What is going to happen in book two? I am intrigued and fascinated by the twist the author has created with Vampires. It is always nice to see how an author is going to mold and warp the vampire legends to make them their own. (: I mean, what is the point in writing another vampire novel if you aren't going to spice it up a little bit? :D
I am happy to report that while it is a twist, her take on vampires is not too outlandish so as to make you groan. Not going into details or anything, but there are both good and bad vampires. The bad ones in this book are hard core and you CANNOT have a good book, in my opinion, without a hard core bad guy. ;) So high marks in that department. And wowza! [well played with that bad guy, lady.]
The good guys, however are not so cut and dried. Now that I have finished the book and have my emotions sort of in order, I can appreciate. Intrigue is something you want to keep in a book to keep readers interested. There certainly is a lot of that in this book. O.O
However, and I hate to mention this... I can do without the main character having every Tom, Dick, and Jane (er.. James?) interested in her. I shall persevere, however, like every dedicated reader and violently hope she ends up with who I want her to be with. Because if not, I believe my heart shall be irreparable damaged. :O
Good Book. Nice Twist on Vamps. Love the intrigue, the bad guys and the main character<3. Could do without the one element, but I guess that is just me. All in all, pretty good read. :D
January 30, 2012
Vampire lovers rejoice! There is a new kind of clan of vampires in town, and they are terrified of the sunlight, fire, and decapitation.
With every new vampire story come a new set of rules to which these creatures live by. Ashley Robertson has given her vampires a unique twist. Although the vampires of Crimson Groves cannot withstand the sunlight, they do not sleep when the sun is up – or ever.
The story starts with a disgruntled Abigail Tate on seemingly normal day. But after a confrontation with her ex-boyfriend, a mysterious phone call from her estranged father and a sudden undeniable attraction to a stranger that waltzes into the bar that she works in, her life is never going to be the same.
Bronx Granger seems like a dream come true, until a passionate make out session turns into deadly nightmare. Abigail is turned into a vampire against her will, and trapped my an overbearing and jealous Bronx who is in a constant state of denial that Abby will become his lover.
Abby quickly learns about an underground world of blood donors that line up to be bitten by a vampire, because a vampire’s venom causes a euphoric and addicting attraction to be bitten again.
The whole while Abigail struggles with who she has become, what is happening to her body and mind, and overall, how to escape from Bronx.
FROM THE BOOK:
I was going to look twenty-one forever. I knew plenty of people that would pay big money for that. I had to pay for it with my soul.
---
I enjoyed Ashley Robertson’s take on the vampire, and the book was well written. There seemed to be a bit too much crying from Abby, but it was a defining part of her personality, and an essential trait to show how she was struggling with her new life. I find jealousy in a man’s character a huge turn off, which all of the men involved oozed, so I couldn’t really feel for them. The plot was strong and well planned with a couple of huge twists. Good job Ashley, I look forward to reading more.
With every new vampire story come a new set of rules to which these creatures live by. Ashley Robertson has given her vampires a unique twist. Although the vampires of Crimson Groves cannot withstand the sunlight, they do not sleep when the sun is up – or ever.
The story starts with a disgruntled Abigail Tate on seemingly normal day. But after a confrontation with her ex-boyfriend, a mysterious phone call from her estranged father and a sudden undeniable attraction to a stranger that waltzes into the bar that she works in, her life is never going to be the same.
Bronx Granger seems like a dream come true, until a passionate make out session turns into deadly nightmare. Abigail is turned into a vampire against her will, and trapped my an overbearing and jealous Bronx who is in a constant state of denial that Abby will become his lover.
Abby quickly learns about an underground world of blood donors that line up to be bitten by a vampire, because a vampire’s venom causes a euphoric and addicting attraction to be bitten again.
The whole while Abigail struggles with who she has become, what is happening to her body and mind, and overall, how to escape from Bronx.
FROM THE BOOK:
I was going to look twenty-one forever. I knew plenty of people that would pay big money for that. I had to pay for it with my soul.
---
I enjoyed Ashley Robertson’s take on the vampire, and the book was well written. There seemed to be a bit too much crying from Abby, but it was a defining part of her personality, and an essential trait to show how she was struggling with her new life. I find jealousy in a man’s character a huge turn off, which all of the men involved oozed, so I couldn’t really feel for them. The plot was strong and well planned with a couple of huge twists. Good job Ashley, I look forward to reading more.
May 20, 2012
[Original review posted on my blog]
I received a finished copy from a Goodreads Giveaway hosted by Ashley Robertson. Thank you!
This vampire story started out strong and ended strong. The plot in between was slow moving, but got its point across. I quite enjoyed reading this book. Although it was not a fast, “cannot-put-down” type of read, the story and Robertson’s version of the vampire were intriguing [magic and enchantments and blood donors to name a few] and made me want to see what happens in the end.
I did have minor issue with the writing. I didn’t enjoy how the main character, narrating the story, has conversations with herself in her mind [e.g. when she keeps using the word "love"] and continually points out unnecessary descriptions of the setting. However, these were quickly and easily overlooked once the story got going and the characters developed a little more. The writing style made the character seem more real and human [irony intended]. She encounters love, fear, strength, and triumph all in one book.
I unfortunately did not enjoy the main character, Abby, in the beginning. But I’m glad she develops into a stronger, much more likeable character in the end. The vampires and humans she encounters throughout the novel are intriguing, like-able/hate-able [both are good], and all take part in the plot in a way I was not expecting. Loved the twists and did not see them coming once I reached the end of the book. The plot ends openly, so sequel or not, this book is worth reading.
I received a finished copy from a Goodreads Giveaway hosted by Ashley Robertson. Thank you!
This vampire story started out strong and ended strong. The plot in between was slow moving, but got its point across. I quite enjoyed reading this book. Although it was not a fast, “cannot-put-down” type of read, the story and Robertson’s version of the vampire were intriguing [magic and enchantments and blood donors to name a few] and made me want to see what happens in the end.
I did have minor issue with the writing. I didn’t enjoy how the main character, narrating the story, has conversations with herself in her mind [e.g. when she keeps using the word "love"] and continually points out unnecessary descriptions of the setting. However, these were quickly and easily overlooked once the story got going and the characters developed a little more. The writing style made the character seem more real and human [irony intended]. She encounters love, fear, strength, and triumph all in one book.
I unfortunately did not enjoy the main character, Abby, in the beginning. But I’m glad she develops into a stronger, much more likeable character in the end. The vampires and humans she encounters throughout the novel are intriguing, like-able/hate-able [both are good], and all take part in the plot in a way I was not expecting. Loved the twists and did not see them coming once I reached the end of the book. The plot ends openly, so sequel or not, this book is worth reading.
April 6, 2014
When I start reading Crimson groves, I was so excited to read about vampires again. It’s been a while since I read The immortal rules (the last vam-book I read). And I missed them!
The first thought I had while reading it was: “On man! I love those names”
And I really do! Abigail Tate is such a good name, a little too sweet, but great. And that’s the thing. I loved Abigail, she was so smart and strong. I enjoyed reading her POV’s coz she’s funny, she is “crude” strong and smart.
The plot is cool, and I have to say it was unexpected, first I thought Abby was about to fall for Bronx and then……
Okay, don’t want to spoil that!
This story was unique, I liked Abigail’s role in the plans of the most powerful vampires.
And then, it was Tyler… this Tyler drove me crazy!!!!!!!!! I swear it!
He was so good, so sweet, so perfect, but then….. Arg!
I know I’m not being coherent, I cannot be! I feel so confused, because I think the story is amazing. Ashley’s writing style is great. The plot, the story-line is really good…
BUT TAYLER!!!!!!
I think it is supposed to be this way, that there is a reason for what happened. And I’m so glad coz this book made feel. And my ratings are about what books make me feel.
So, I felt excited, and angry!
I also have to say, it went to my “powerful” category, the ending was… that, powerful.
This book made me remember why I love vampires so much.
I loved it!
But I gave it 4 roses, BECAUSE of Tyler! I blame you, Tyler!
Oh, yeah. I forgot about Stone… BIT ME PLEASE! :)
Now, YOU! -Person who is reading this kind of review- have to try this book!
The first thought I had while reading it was: “On man! I love those names”
And I really do! Abigail Tate is such a good name, a little too sweet, but great. And that’s the thing. I loved Abigail, she was so smart and strong. I enjoyed reading her POV’s coz she’s funny, she is “crude” strong and smart.
The plot is cool, and I have to say it was unexpected, first I thought Abby was about to fall for Bronx and then……
Okay, don’t want to spoil that!
This story was unique, I liked Abigail’s role in the plans of the most powerful vampires.
And then, it was Tyler… this Tyler drove me crazy!!!!!!!!! I swear it!
He was so good, so sweet, so perfect, but then….. Arg!
I know I’m not being coherent, I cannot be! I feel so confused, because I think the story is amazing. Ashley’s writing style is great. The plot, the story-line is really good…
BUT TAYLER!!!!!!
I think it is supposed to be this way, that there is a reason for what happened. And I’m so glad coz this book made feel. And my ratings are about what books make me feel.
So, I felt excited, and angry!
I also have to say, it went to my “powerful” category, the ending was… that, powerful.
This book made me remember why I love vampires so much.
I loved it!
But I gave it 4 roses, BECAUSE of Tyler! I blame you, Tyler!
Oh, yeah. I forgot about Stone… BIT ME PLEASE! :)
Now, YOU! -Person who is reading this kind of review- have to try this book!
August 20, 2012
My review of Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson
Rating 5*****
This book was provided free from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Abby has had about the worst six months any woman could have. She just caught her best friend in bed with her boyfriend. To make matters worse the two of them are now in a relationship trying to be friends with her!!! Isolating herself has worked well for her until she met Bronx.
Bronx strolled into her bar like a yummy cookie all for her. Tall dark and handsome he is the making of a girl's dream. Unfortunately for Abby thay dream is becoming a nightmare. Bronx is a vampire, a very dangerous vampire. He not only wants to know Abby but possess her and use her for his own evil plans. It seems Abby's past has many secrets. In order to unravel those secrets she must face betrayal of those she cares for and also learn to trust those who are steangers to her.
Abby's journey is awesome. I don't know how else to say it. I love Abby's determination and desire to fight what is right. Many other people would quit when faced with the obstacles she comes across. Not Abby! She remains in touch with her humanity and chases to find the truth. The author made the characters realistic even though possessing supernatural abilities! The plot twists were quick and unpredictable ....several times I had to say "I honestly never seen that one coming!" This series is sure to be a grwat read for those of us that love a great paranormal action / romance / thriller......you get all three in one here. Looking forward to Abby's next journey.
Rating 5*****
This book was provided free from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Abby has had about the worst six months any woman could have. She just caught her best friend in bed with her boyfriend. To make matters worse the two of them are now in a relationship trying to be friends with her!!! Isolating herself has worked well for her until she met Bronx.
Bronx strolled into her bar like a yummy cookie all for her. Tall dark and handsome he is the making of a girl's dream. Unfortunately for Abby thay dream is becoming a nightmare. Bronx is a vampire, a very dangerous vampire. He not only wants to know Abby but possess her and use her for his own evil plans. It seems Abby's past has many secrets. In order to unravel those secrets she must face betrayal of those she cares for and also learn to trust those who are steangers to her.
Abby's journey is awesome. I don't know how else to say it. I love Abby's determination and desire to fight what is right. Many other people would quit when faced with the obstacles she comes across. Not Abby! She remains in touch with her humanity and chases to find the truth. The author made the characters realistic even though possessing supernatural abilities! The plot twists were quick and unpredictable ....several times I had to say "I honestly never seen that one coming!" This series is sure to be a grwat read for those of us that love a great paranormal action / romance / thriller......you get all three in one here. Looking forward to Abby's next journey.
February 8, 2013
This book was amazing! It was slightly slow paced to start off with but then it just exploded into this rapid pace which just kept getting better and better! The plot was about vampires which is one supernatural element that I have a hard time reading about as I feel that we have sort of seen it all now but Crimson Groves is in a completely different world to other vampire books that I have read! I honestly wasn't expecting to enjoy is as much as I did because of the plot and the love triangle as these are the things that I have to like to be able to enjoy a book but Crimson Groves was full of promise from page one! I really liked most of the characters as well! I loved Abigail 'Abby' as she didn't just sit there and accept that she had been turned into a vampire but she fought to control herself and learn her powers! She was kick-ass as well! I really didn't like Bronx! I thought that I was going to like him at the start but then I didn't like what he did to Abby at all and then I found him quite self-centered at times as well! I was Team Tyler for pretty much most of the book until he did something that I not expecting him to do at all! I got pretty angry with him actually! There was sort of a love square in this book between Abby, Bronx, Tyler and Stone but I am not sure if maybe Stone's feelings for Abby will develop into love feelings as I just can't see that happening! The ending was really good and it shows that anything can happen in the next book! I really love the cover and I am also really looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Big thank you to Amber and Ashley for providing me with a copy of Crimson Groves!
February 22, 2013
Abby is the main focus in Crimson Groves and starting out her father isn't around her mother disowned her and her best friend has slept her way into Abby's boyfriends bed. Abby does not have a good hand felt to her from the get go. On top of heartache and no one around she is alright friends with a guy she works with who is trying to ease Abby into the thought of moving on. That's when Bronx enters the headache called Abby's reality. I really really wanted to like Bronx in the beginning I'm all for a man that knows what he wants but, the lengths Bronx is willing to go is beyond anything I can fathom in my head. Then there is Ty. So sweet and in the right place at the right time so willing to help the damsel in distress...... Such a loving man wanting nothing but for Abby to say those three little words annnnnd hoping she doesn't kill him in the process. Then, then their is Stone the quiet one who just wants taste of what only Abby can offer him. Along with his name Stone is like Abby's rock. He has the answers to things she wants or needs to know and the ability to help her. And last but not least Lily she is Abby's beard and butter.... Abby couldn't survive or make it as far as she does without Lily.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ms. Robertson's Crimson Groves. I would and plan of recommending it to my fellow book nerds. This book does have quite a few bends and breaks but, there is a secret or more trouble lurking around every bend in every chapter. I hope you enjoy. I myself will be jumping into book number two. Happy Reading!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ms. Robertson's Crimson Groves. I would and plan of recommending it to my fellow book nerds. This book does have quite a few bends and breaks but, there is a secret or more trouble lurking around every bend in every chapter. I hope you enjoy. I myself will be jumping into book number two. Happy Reading!
February 3, 2013
Lisa's review of
Crimson Groves
by Ashley Robertson
I was given a copy of Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson in exchange for an honest review. I have to say that after reading her book Unguarded I was extremely excited to read her debut book Crimson Groves. Ashley did not disappoint me in the least. Abby was first abandoned by her father then her mother. Life doesn't get any better when she is a adult the man she is dating leaves her for her best friend. Sucks huh. Would make most people become a hermit and climb into bed and hide from the world. Well technically Abby does that doesn't want to meet anyone turning her attention to her work. Then she gets a call out if the blue from her long lost father. And then there in the same fateful day when Bronx walks in and she cant get enough of him. But he is the beginning and the ending to her life as she knows it. She is thrown into the life of vampirism and Bronx is wanting to possess her forever. She knows she must leave but not sure that she is strong enough to make it alone. Along the way she meets people that want to help but can she truly trust them she thought she could do that very thing with Bronx. I absolutely loved Crimson Groves and I am desperately awaiting book 2 Crimson Rain to continue with Abby on her new life. I highly recommend everyone that loves the paranormal to get a copy and also her next book Unguarded. Thank you very much Ashley for enriching all of us with your wonderful writing.
Crimson Groves
by Ashley Robertson
I was given a copy of Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson in exchange for an honest review. I have to say that after reading her book Unguarded I was extremely excited to read her debut book Crimson Groves. Ashley did not disappoint me in the least. Abby was first abandoned by her father then her mother. Life doesn't get any better when she is a adult the man she is dating leaves her for her best friend. Sucks huh. Would make most people become a hermit and climb into bed and hide from the world. Well technically Abby does that doesn't want to meet anyone turning her attention to her work. Then she gets a call out if the blue from her long lost father. And then there in the same fateful day when Bronx walks in and she cant get enough of him. But he is the beginning and the ending to her life as she knows it. She is thrown into the life of vampirism and Bronx is wanting to possess her forever. She knows she must leave but not sure that she is strong enough to make it alone. Along the way she meets people that want to help but can she truly trust them she thought she could do that very thing with Bronx. I absolutely loved Crimson Groves and I am desperately awaiting book 2 Crimson Rain to continue with Abby on her new life. I highly recommend everyone that loves the paranormal to get a copy and also her next book Unguarded. Thank you very much Ashley for enriching all of us with your wonderful writing.
July 27, 2012
I struggled rating this book. So first I will say that when you start reading this book, give it at least 100 pages before you decide if you’re going to continue. It took me about that long to really get hooked. There is a lot of set up, and rightly so, and very well done, it’s just slow. Once the story gets off and going, it is a very quick read. Lots of action and interesting things going on and it doesn’t stop.
At first I thought it was very similar to Twilight and that it would be very similar to other stories I had previously read in this genre. Not so. Even though this has your night creatures everyone is familiar with, this story has new ideas and twists that will keep you wanting to know more. The love story is amazing as well as the relationships that are discovered and developed.
I really liked the relationships that Abby developed with both Tyler and Lily. How she was able to keep them safe, but still keeping them in her life was amazing. Abby is strong and very tough in dealing with everything going on in her life. An excellent main character.
What a great story! I would have to give 3 stars to the first 100 pages just because it was slow, but definitely 5 stars to the rest of the book. Of course, like I said earlier, the action doesn’t stop with book one. We have to wait for book 2!!
A Date with a Book Complete Review
At first I thought it was very similar to Twilight and that it would be very similar to other stories I had previously read in this genre. Not so. Even though this has your night creatures everyone is familiar with, this story has new ideas and twists that will keep you wanting to know more. The love story is amazing as well as the relationships that are discovered and developed.
I really liked the relationships that Abby developed with both Tyler and Lily. How she was able to keep them safe, but still keeping them in her life was amazing. Abby is strong and very tough in dealing with everything going on in her life. An excellent main character.
What a great story! I would have to give 3 stars to the first 100 pages just because it was slow, but definitely 5 stars to the rest of the book. Of course, like I said earlier, the action doesn’t stop with book one. We have to wait for book 2!!
A Date with a Book Complete Review
September 13, 2012
Abigail Is a girl abandoned by her dad and man, then her boyfriend leaves her for her best friend, she feels alone in life.
One night when she goes to work, -she is a bartender in a restaurant- She gets a sudden phone call from her dad that she needs to hide because "he is coming for her" she has no idea what he talks about and hangs up on him. When her dad calls back again she takes the call and hears worrisome sounds on the back ground and then nothing. Later that evening Bronx steps into her life and she is very drawn towards him, he asks her if can walk her home after work because it is not safe out there.
When she sees him waiting for her he walks her not exactly home, but to his house and she can't stop him somehow. He bites her without her permission and makes her a vampire and claims they were meant to be.
She is a prisoner in his house for a long time, after weeks he takes her out to a club where she meets Tyler, she wants to escape from Bronx and Tyler seems the answer and willing to help her.
They run for it and fall in love but things are not what they seem to be because Tyler has a secret, when Abby finds that out it is to late... or not?
Great story, great plots and things you don't expect. I recommend it!
One night when she goes to work, -she is a bartender in a restaurant- She gets a sudden phone call from her dad that she needs to hide because "he is coming for her" she has no idea what he talks about and hangs up on him. When her dad calls back again she takes the call and hears worrisome sounds on the back ground and then nothing. Later that evening Bronx steps into her life and she is very drawn towards him, he asks her if can walk her home after work because it is not safe out there.
When she sees him waiting for her he walks her not exactly home, but to his house and she can't stop him somehow. He bites her without her permission and makes her a vampire and claims they were meant to be.
She is a prisoner in his house for a long time, after weeks he takes her out to a club where she meets Tyler, she wants to escape from Bronx and Tyler seems the answer and willing to help her.
They run for it and fall in love but things are not what they seem to be because Tyler has a secret, when Abby finds that out it is to late... or not?
Great story, great plots and things you don't expect. I recommend it!
June 5, 2012
Let's start off by saying that I enjoyed this book, it was a fun read but nothing special. To start it's very similar to the other zillion vampire novels out there. We have an evil vampire who turned a beautiful woman for his own selfish reasons and a women who really doesn't want to be a vampire.
Also this vampires really don't have anything special about them, they burn in sunlight and some have special powers, but there isn't an cool back story (Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz) or a interesting society (Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) or anything else that would really draw me in.
So in all a nice vampire book but nothing to make it special.
I received this book through Goodreads Firstreads Program
Also this vampires really don't have anything special about them, they burn in sunlight and some have special powers, but there isn't an cool back story (Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz) or a interesting society (Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) or anything else that would really draw me in.
So in all a nice vampire book but nothing to make it special.
I received this book through Goodreads Firstreads Program
September 19, 2012
Crimson Grove was not a “typical” vampire story. The beginning was a little slow, honestly I wasn’t quite sure where she was going with the plot but I soon realized there was a method to her “madness” and I was engrossed in the book. Abby is not your typical MC in a vampire book. She’s a bit of a whiner in the beginning, pretty down on life and smarting over catching her best friend with her boyfriend and her abandonment by her parents. On a night she was feeling particularly bad she is wooed by this mysterious guy named Bronx. Even though she had a odd feeling she left with him and had her life changed forever and NOT for the good. Abby now has to decided if she is going to give into her fate or fight for her freedom and existence, out of the grasp of Bronx. What she does completely goes against the girl you see in the beginning of the book. Crimson Groves is a story that ensnares you before you even realize it. If you are looking for a different kind of vampire book… check this one out and from the excerpt I read of the next book, I think it may be a new fav series for me.
February 28, 2012
I was sent a review copy of this title by the author - and how could I refuse when vampires are involved!?
This was a story that caught my attention right from the start. I enjoyed the way vampires were portrayed in this world - think Twilight rules sans sparkling - and I found Abby an interesting and engaging heroine. The main characters were all well portrayed; although, I would have liked to have seen more of Stone as I liked him best. But that might happen in a future book.
The pacing on the whole was good and the opening was strong and gripping. There was a slight lull in the middle of the book, but things picked up again towards the end.
The only minor negative for me was that I never understood the appeal of Abby's main love interest, especially considering the ways things work out and the position both characters are in by the end of the book. But maybe I'm just biased since I liked Stone best.
This is an enjoyable read for vampire fans and I would certainly be keen to continue reading and see how Abby's story will progress.
This was a story that caught my attention right from the start. I enjoyed the way vampires were portrayed in this world - think Twilight rules sans sparkling - and I found Abby an interesting and engaging heroine. The main characters were all well portrayed; although, I would have liked to have seen more of Stone as I liked him best. But that might happen in a future book.
The pacing on the whole was good and the opening was strong and gripping. There was a slight lull in the middle of the book, but things picked up again towards the end.
The only minor negative for me was that I never understood the appeal of Abby's main love interest, especially considering the ways things work out and the position both characters are in by the end of the book. But maybe I'm just biased since I liked Stone best.
This is an enjoyable read for vampire fans and I would certainly be keen to continue reading and see how Abby's story will progress.
September 4, 2012
The main character, Abby, is a simpering whiner in the beginning of this book. The story begins with her lamenting the loss of her boyfriend to her best friend, being disowned by her mother, her absentee father and her general lack of loved ones. When she is turned into a vampire against her will, it is just one more thing to fuel her self-pity. It is hard to feel sorry for someone who seems to have totally given up her power to the whims of the other people in her life.
Fortunately, as the story moves forward, Abby comes into her power and wraps up the story as a strong character. During the story's progression, we see Abby embrace who she is and become a force to reckon with. Her bravery and courage to face the challenges she is met with in her journeys makes her a likeable character you will begin to root for.
This story is a page turner and the ending will truly surprise you. Don't think for a second you know what will happen because there are twists and turns throughout the plot until the very last page.
Fortunately, as the story moves forward, Abby comes into her power and wraps up the story as a strong character. During the story's progression, we see Abby embrace who she is and become a force to reckon with. Her bravery and courage to face the challenges she is met with in her journeys makes her a likeable character you will begin to root for.
This story is a page turner and the ending will truly surprise you. Don't think for a second you know what will happen because there are twists and turns throughout the plot until the very last page.
December 7, 2012
I received this book in exchange for a honest review.
Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson
This is the first book I read by this author. This book was an engaging read. I was highly captivated through the whole book and couldn't put it down. There were tons of twists and turns that I did not foresee happening. I'm patiently waiting for the next book in this astounding series. The writer had a wonderful story line and plot. I loved the characters especially Abby. You love to hate the bad guy and hope he gets his. You are also torn between the human Tyler and the vampire stone of Abby's love interest. I possibly can't wait to see what will happen between the three of them.
The book is about Abigail Tate or by her friends Abby. She is a gal that works at a bar being a bartender who one day receives an odd phone call from her father that she know nothing about. She is confused and don't know whether to blow it off. Then walks Bronx who will change her life forever, but not in a good way. Have to read the book to know the rest! I give this book 5 stars!!! LOVE IT!
Crimson Groves by Ashley Robertson
This is the first book I read by this author. This book was an engaging read. I was highly captivated through the whole book and couldn't put it down. There were tons of twists and turns that I did not foresee happening. I'm patiently waiting for the next book in this astounding series. The writer had a wonderful story line and plot. I loved the characters especially Abby. You love to hate the bad guy and hope he gets his. You are also torn between the human Tyler and the vampire stone of Abby's love interest. I possibly can't wait to see what will happen between the three of them.
The book is about Abigail Tate or by her friends Abby. She is a gal that works at a bar being a bartender who one day receives an odd phone call from her father that she know nothing about. She is confused and don't know whether to blow it off. Then walks Bronx who will change her life forever, but not in a good way. Have to read the book to know the rest! I give this book 5 stars!!! LOVE IT!
August 1, 2012
Crimson Groves captivated me from the beginning and constantly delved into the unexpected; I was constantly surprised by the plot and character development. Ashley Robertson, very successfully weaves an interesting tale of action, intrigue and romance, all with a paranormal twist.
I really like Abby's character and cheered her from the sidelines (fairly vocally at times). Additionally, I completely was sucked in by Bronx and Tyler's characters; this impressed me somewhat considering the character development that focuses on these two male characters in particular.
The story well crafted. I especially enjoyed the plot structure and development. I wasn't always convinced by Tyler's voice however. His persona, as portrayed by his dialogue, was somewhat childlike; he regularly sounded more like a 15 year old boy as opposed to a man.
On the whole, I really enjoyed Crimson Groves and give it a highly recommended 4 stars!
I really like Abby's character and cheered her from the sidelines (fairly vocally at times). Additionally, I completely was sucked in by Bronx and Tyler's characters; this impressed me somewhat considering the character development that focuses on these two male characters in particular.
The story well crafted. I especially enjoyed the plot structure and development. I wasn't always convinced by Tyler's voice however. His persona, as portrayed by his dialogue, was somewhat childlike; he regularly sounded more like a 15 year old boy as opposed to a man.
On the whole, I really enjoyed Crimson Groves and give it a highly recommended 4 stars!
November 7, 2013
Review:
This book has a great storyline that keeps the reader flipping the pages to find out what will happen next. The settings pull you, as a reader, into the story making it feel like you, as a reader, is apart of the story with the characters. With this book being first person point-of-view by the main character, Abby makes it personal for the reader.
The unexpected twists and turns were every where. It was hard to keep up with what was happening. My only problem with this book, was the pacing. The action was lacking due to the bogging down with the details. Abby was questioning more than I wanted or thought was needed. There was, in my mind, no need to question something over and over when it did not change.
With all the twists and turns that happened through out the book, I was happy that the author did wrap up all the questions I had in a neat little package called the last chapter.
4 Stars
This book has a great storyline that keeps the reader flipping the pages to find out what will happen next. The settings pull you, as a reader, into the story making it feel like you, as a reader, is apart of the story with the characters. With this book being first person point-of-view by the main character, Abby makes it personal for the reader.
The unexpected twists and turns were every where. It was hard to keep up with what was happening. My only problem with this book, was the pacing. The action was lacking due to the bogging down with the details. Abby was questioning more than I wanted or thought was needed. There was, in my mind, no need to question something over and over when it did not change.
With all the twists and turns that happened through out the book, I was happy that the author did wrap up all the questions I had in a neat little package called the last chapter.
4 Stars
July 22, 2013
This is not your normal vampire book. At least not the ones that I've read lately. Abby is turned vampire against her will and then held captive with no hope of escape. When she suddenly gets the unexpected chance to escape, she is on the run with a human named Tyler who has plenty of his own secrets. I thought it started a bit slow with Abby being whiney over a past relationship (dirtbag boyfriend + ex-BFF = not happy Abby) but quite honestly I'd be the same way.. lol! Once the book got going I had a hard time putting it down! It's nice to loathe the main vampire for once !! I really enjoyed reading about being a newbie vampire from Abby's perspective. With Tyler's secrets, Abby's dad popping up after years of being gone, meeting Stone (loving him!) and the truth behind why Abby was turned vamp- it's a ride down a long curving road. Lots of twists and turns to keep you alert!
September 3, 2012
Wow! This book was amazing!! This story is about a girl named Abigail "Abby" Tate and her life after she was forced into being a vampire. She knows Bronx the vampire who turned her is awful and she hates him but there's no way to escape him, he's too powerful. Until a human boy named Tyler comes to her rescue, but there is something off about Tyler. And she finds herself starting to develop feelings for him. Feelings she promised to not feel again after her last heartbreak. In the book Abby finds herself facing love, betrayal and a quest to figure out what's she's capable of now that she is a vampire. What she finds out about herself and her new powers will shock her and readers. I really recommend this book to everyone, it will keep you reading and will provide hours of entertainment.
June 15, 2012
Fresh Twist On The Sought-After Undead We Just Can't Seem To Get Enough Of!!!
Intense and suspenseful with just enough romance to tickle your fangs :-)
Bronx the vampire barges into Abigail Tate's life and forcefully turns her, then holds her captive. When a chance to escape arises, it's with the aid of an innocent human--except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can help or get her killed. Only Abby discovers that she was the one with the biggest secret of all. ***June 2012 Extras added to the e-book version only (including the first chapter of the sequel Crimson Rain (book #2 of The Crimson Series)***
Intense and suspenseful with just enough romance to tickle your fangs :-)
Bronx the vampire barges into Abigail Tate's life and forcefully turns her, then holds her captive. When a chance to escape arises, it's with the aid of an innocent human--except vampires are forbidden to interact with the unbitten. But Abby learns this human has secrets of his own...secrets that can help or get her killed. Only Abby discovers that she was the one with the biggest secret of all. ***June 2012 Extras added to the e-book version only (including the first chapter of the sequel Crimson Rain (book #2 of The Crimson Series)***
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