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Blood and Absinthe #3
Claiming the Vampire
Fae princess Jessica Greenwood has never questioned that her duty to her people comes before her own wishes. To avert a war between dimensions, she agrees to an arranged marriage with a stranger—the Dark Fae prince. Then she meets the mysterious vampire Hawk, who challenges all her beliefs and tempts her with a longing she’s never even imagined.
Now Jessica is caught between duty and desire. With the fate of two worlds hanging in the balance, how will she choose?
Claiming the Vampire, a paranormal romance novel, is Book 3 of the Blood and Absinthe series.
Now Jessica is caught between duty and desire. With the fate of two worlds hanging in the balance, how will she choose?
Claiming the Vampire, a paranormal romance novel, is Book 3 of the Blood and Absinthe series.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2012
28 people are currently reading
418 people want to read
About the author
Chloe Hart
18 books229 followersChloe Hart spends a lot of time lying awake at night, thinking about vampires, demon hunters, and things that lurk in the darkness. During the day she writes about them. You can visit her website at authorchloehart.com or email her at authorchloehart@gmail.com. She would love to hear from you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 12, 2012
Length: 2899 kindle
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GREAT
Intimacy Level: VERY SPICY
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jessica who is a fae princess is engaged to the dark fae prince by an arranged marriage. Although she isn’t really happy with the choice, she does what she must for her people. But on a particular day she met Hawk, a vampire. After their first encounter everything in Jessica’s life changes.
THOUGHTS (I’ll do my best, but may contain spoilers)
Claiming the Vampire is the third installment in the (Blood and Absinthe) series. Let me start out by saying, book one and two felt like a warm up and book three felt like graduation day. I would definitely advice the reader to read Taming the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #1) and Bound by the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #2) before reading book three. All previous characters from the first two books are included in the story and having an idea of the foundation of the storyline will give more pleasure and excitement while reading book three.
The beginning of the story gives a briefing of the last book Bound by the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #2) on what happen with the absinthe and a possible invasion that never occurred. Book two is where we met Hawk, a vampire assassin. Although he seemed like a villain at the time, there was something about his character that left a lasting impression. In the previous book, he didn’t complete his last assignment; he is back in Claiming the Vampire with a score to settle and it’s with a fae. I enjoyed getting to know Hawk and his history as well as the drive that he has with the goal he’s trying to accomplish. Jessica is a fae princess and dealing with vampires is a no no, as they are not to be trusted, but her attraction to Hawk is undeniable. She is also engaged through an arranged marriage that will help bring about peace; Jessica has quite the dilemma when it comes to her feelings and who to trust. Hawk and Jessica’s relationship and the build up to it was interesting and good. Hawk seems like this dark assassin but here he is in love with a girl and he seems a bit helpless and a bit desperate at times and that’s what made me love their love. The plot surrounding these two was not lacking and kept my interest throughout the storyline as more is revealed and everyone’s true intention is known, good and bad.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Secondary characters were a huge bonus and I loved them. I was so excited that the author brought back both previous couples from book one and two Liz, Jack, Celia and Evan. And trust me when I say, their scenes were not lacking. Celia and Evan O..M..G, the things a girl has to do to claim her vampire (lol). Celia’s desperate times calls for desperate measures and involves chains, and not in a bad way. Like book one I had different stages of enjoyment when it came to the claiming ritual for Celia and Evan. First, I was shock because I didn’t see that coming, and then I felt excitement and then a sexy moment. Liz and Jack were naughty and I loved it. Everything about the couples were so unexpected. Aside from all of that they played key roles in this story that didn’t detract from the main characters. Prince Kel who is a dark fae prince and engaged to Jessica, loved him and didn’t feel bad lusting over a potential nemesis. Although his ending felt a bit incomplete and I hope that he will get his own story.
I really felt the storyline in the book shined and brought the characters justice. I have to commend the author on book three; well done.
by
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
More reviews for this author:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Ch...
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GREAT
Intimacy Level: VERY SPICY
BRIEF SUMMARY
Jessica who is a fae princess is engaged to the dark fae prince by an arranged marriage. Although she isn’t really happy with the choice, she does what she must for her people. But on a particular day she met Hawk, a vampire. After their first encounter everything in Jessica’s life changes.
THOUGHTS (I’ll do my best, but may contain spoilers)
Claiming the Vampire is the third installment in the (Blood and Absinthe) series. Let me start out by saying, book one and two felt like a warm up and book three felt like graduation day. I would definitely advice the reader to read Taming the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #1) and Bound by the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #2) before reading book three. All previous characters from the first two books are included in the story and having an idea of the foundation of the storyline will give more pleasure and excitement while reading book three.
The beginning of the story gives a briefing of the last book Bound by the Vampire (Blood and Absinthe, #2) on what happen with the absinthe and a possible invasion that never occurred. Book two is where we met Hawk, a vampire assassin. Although he seemed like a villain at the time, there was something about his character that left a lasting impression. In the previous book, he didn’t complete his last assignment; he is back in Claiming the Vampire with a score to settle and it’s with a fae. I enjoyed getting to know Hawk and his history as well as the drive that he has with the goal he’s trying to accomplish. Jessica is a fae princess and dealing with vampires is a no no, as they are not to be trusted, but her attraction to Hawk is undeniable. She is also engaged through an arranged marriage that will help bring about peace; Jessica has quite the dilemma when it comes to her feelings and who to trust. Hawk and Jessica’s relationship and the build up to it was interesting and good. Hawk seems like this dark assassin but here he is in love with a girl and he seems a bit helpless and a bit desperate at times and that’s what made me love their love. The plot surrounding these two was not lacking and kept my interest throughout the storyline as more is revealed and everyone’s true intention is known, good and bad.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Secondary characters were a huge bonus and I loved them. I was so excited that the author brought back both previous couples from book one and two Liz, Jack, Celia and Evan. And trust me when I say, their scenes were not lacking. Celia and Evan O..M..G, the things a girl has to do to claim her vampire (lol). Celia’s desperate times calls for desperate measures and involves chains, and not in a bad way. Like book one I had different stages of enjoyment when it came to the claiming ritual for Celia and Evan. First, I was shock because I didn’t see that coming, and then I felt excitement and then a sexy moment. Liz and Jack were naughty and I loved it. Everything about the couples were so unexpected. Aside from all of that they played key roles in this story that didn’t detract from the main characters. Prince Kel who is a dark fae prince and engaged to Jessica, loved him and didn’t feel bad lusting over a potential nemesis. Although his ending felt a bit incomplete and I hope that he will get his own story.
I really felt the storyline in the book shined and brought the characters justice. I have to commend the author on book three; well done.
by
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
More reviews for this author:
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/Ch...
February 14, 2016
I jumped into book 3 instantly without reading the first two books, why?
I have absolutely NO idea!
BUT now that I did, I have to say that it worked just fine, well, later on I found out that the couples from books 1 and 2 are appearing here BUT that didn't bother me since their involment with the main couple in this book is merely based on action sequences in solving the big freaking inavsion plot and their own segments were also based on the sexual nature, so I was kinda able to catch up,
I mean duh?!
What I liked here was the banter and sexual anticipation between the real main characters *snickers*
killer/assasin vamp Hawk and princess fae Jessica (and she's the badass warrior that can stand up for herself even if she thinks that she's cold and unlovable by default)
the part that kinda set me back a pace or two were the proclamations of LOVE, I dont have anything against insta love, well actually I do when It pisses me off cause it never, ever is written in a believable manner and I just don't buy it!
Fuck it! I always give it a fair chance and all and it almost never is delivered.
the action was great, I loved it...
the sex part was awesome, I loved that too
but that annoying itchy feeling kept lingering and I just couldn't shake it off and that was the main reason for me to give it 4 stars.
*shrugs*
March 15, 2020
3 Stars
August 24, 2019
This is the final book in the trilogy or so I thought and it’s a full length novel YAY! The H’s and h’s from book 1 and 2 also appear to help out.
The h is s big of a sad sap princess depressed with her life and resigned to an arranged marriage.
The H is an ex assassin sneaking around the fae world trying to find his sister who is a slave here. h’s mum keeps promising to release her if he does stuff for her but she hasn’t paid up. H has a magical doo hickey to help him transport.
He sees the h in the garden and thinks she’s about to commit suicide so he has some banter with her then uses her as a hostage to confront her mum.
She’s promised to a dark fae prince who isn’t all that bad and mum is plotting to take over the world as bloodlines are getting diluted and she’s rather cray cray. If she opens the portal then earth will be ruled by dark fae types and life as we know it is a gonna. Our intrepid boon 1 and 2s find out the plot and rope our h into helping once she believes. Along the way the h and H fall in love the dark prince conveniently loves the vampire sister mum is banished and it’s high fives and HEA’s all around
The h is s big of a sad sap princess depressed with her life and resigned to an arranged marriage.
The H is an ex assassin sneaking around the fae world trying to find his sister who is a slave here. h’s mum keeps promising to release her if he does stuff for her but she hasn’t paid up. H has a magical doo hickey to help him transport.
He sees the h in the garden and thinks she’s about to commit suicide so he has some banter with her then uses her as a hostage to confront her mum.
She’s promised to a dark fae prince who isn’t all that bad and mum is plotting to take over the world as bloodlines are getting diluted and she’s rather cray cray. If she opens the portal then earth will be ruled by dark fae types and life as we know it is a gonna. Our intrepid boon 1 and 2s find out the plot and rope our h into helping once she believes. Along the way the h and H fall in love the dark prince conveniently loves the vampire sister mum is banished and it’s high fives and HEA’s all around
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2015
My Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a paranormal romance novel that has such a captivating feel to it that it makes you shiver all the way from the top of your head to your toes. And I’m not talking about scary shivers. I’m talking about excitement and a seductive atmosphere. This is how Claiming the Vampire affected me.
I must be on a roll with choosing awesome Paranormal Romance novels lately. Here’s another by Chloe Hart that has a great love story and a solid engaging plot. One that any Paranormal Romance fan will not want to miss out on.
Claiming the Vampire is the 3rd novel in the Blood and Absinthe series, however, I think it can be read out of sequence. The author provides enough backstory that it’s easy to keep up. The previous ones are just as intoxicating as this one so I’m sure you’ll want to read those as well.
________________________________________
About the story…
________________________________________
Jessica is the daughter of a queen and promised to the prince of the Dark Fae realm. She doesn’t want to marry for political reasons but she will. For her people. War between the two realms is imminent if she does not.
Hawk is an assassin with one purpose and that is to find his sister who’s been missing for 10 years. It means nothing to him having to kill anyone to find her. His quest leads him to Jessica and the moment they meet, passion ignites and love, unlike what either of them thought was possible, claim them both.
This story is full of intrigue between the Earth Fae and the Dark Fae realms and things aren’t always what they seem. It does not take away from the romantic story but adds a complexity and set up of conflict that makes it even more riveting.
________________________________________
About the Characters…
________________________________________
Jessica is a very compelling character with a very unassuming nature. She likes to stay low-key and even though she is a Fae princess, she hates dressing up in ball gowns and playing the political game. What she does like, is killing demons. She has a warrior’s heart and is a fearless killer of those that pose a threat to the humans the Earth Fae are supposed to protect. Certainly a force to be reckoned with.
Hawk is completely the type of alpha male that we love – powerful, feared, sexy. However, if he wants to be in Jessica’s life, he must learn to temper that alpha instinct. No easy task for a vampire. He’s never been in a relationship before and doesn’t always say and do the right thing. He has a kind nature that we see in his quest to find his sister.
On their relationship:
I like how the author recounts some early scenes (e.g. when Jessica and Hawk first meet) both from Jessica’s perspective and then in the next chapter, from Hawks perspective. Since they can’t very tell at first meeting each other how attracted they are to each other, we get to see what each one is feeling at the exact time. It’s a very effective tool to use in this novel. Jessica is quiet and more of a thinker than a conversationalist so it worked well.
There is an amazing chemistry between Jessica and Hawk that’s intense yet completely tender at the same time.
I have to share with you this captivating excerpt that is very telling of Hawk’s personality and their potential relationship. It completely sold me on the novel.
Hawk to Jessica upon finding out about her arranged marriage…
But the idea of Jessica marrying that cold fish made his demon rage inside him.
“Are you required to be a virgin on your wedding night?”
“Of course not!” she snapped.
“But you are a virgin, aren’t you?”
She didn’t answer him directly. “Why are you so fixated on that?”
“Because you deserve to have a decent first time, Jessica. Every woman does. Let me…” he swallowed. “Let me give you that.”
She stared at him. “You can’t be serious. Are you suggesting that you be my first time?”
“Yes.”
“Right now?”
“Yes.”
“With all those guards…not to mention my mother and my fiancé…waiting back there for my return?”
She was right. It was insane. But – “Yes.”
She gestured around them. “Up against a tree? Or on the ground?”
The thought of laying her down on a bed of pine needle had him harder than granite. “Anywhere.”
She shook her head slowly. “Just so I have this straight. Less than a minute ago you were holding a knife to my throat, and a few minutes before that you jabbed a needle into my arm and said it was poison. And now you think…what? That I’m going to fall into your arms? I’ll say this for you, Hawk – you have a unique seduction routine. Does the whole threatening-a-woman’s-life thing get you a lot of dates, generally speaking?”
In spite of himself, one corner of his mouth twisted up in a smile. “When you put it like that, it does sound a little unconventional. But, Jessica…” He stepped close and put his hands on her shoulders. Her skin was warm, and his palms tingled. “I’ll make it good for you, I swear. And I know you want me. “
He could see the muscles of her throat move as she swallowed.
“How do you know that?”
He stroked his hands down her bare arms and back up to her shoulders. “The way you tremble when I touch you,” he said softly. “The way the blood rushes to your cheeks and your breath catches in your throat. The way your heart beats faster.”
All those things were happening now, and hope rose inside him. “No one will ever know. It will be our secret. And after tonight you’ll never see me again.”
A one-night stand with the assassin who threatened my life? How romantic.”
He could tell she was trying for sarcasm, but her voice shook a little.
“This isn’t about romance. It’s about desire. And I know you feel it, too.”
She lowered her eyes, and her lashes were like black feathers against her cheeks. He watched her take a deep breath and let it out, slowly.
“There’s something else you should know about me,” she said, lifting her eyes to meet his. There was a glint in their blue-green depths that should have warned him, but he was too far gone to see it.
“What?” he asked, lowering his head to kiss her…”
That’s where I’ll stop. You’ll have to read the novel to see what Jessica decides.
We also get to see more of the main characters from Books 1 and 2 as well as they are involved in the politics between Fae worlds. This is a good thing as those characters are too remarkable to ignore.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
________________________________________
Claiming the Vampire is a novel that any lover of steamy Paranormal Romance will not want to miss out on! The plot is solid, writing superb, with great character development. I highly recommend you add this one to the top of your To Be Read list!
Happy Reading!!
5 Bad Boys – Absolutely Loved It!!!!!
There’s nothing quite like a paranormal romance novel that has such a captivating feel to it that it makes you shiver all the way from the top of your head to your toes. And I’m not talking about scary shivers. I’m talking about excitement and a seductive atmosphere. This is how Claiming the Vampire affected me.
I must be on a roll with choosing awesome Paranormal Romance novels lately. Here’s another by Chloe Hart that has a great love story and a solid engaging plot. One that any Paranormal Romance fan will not want to miss out on.
Claiming the Vampire is the 3rd novel in the Blood and Absinthe series, however, I think it can be read out of sequence. The author provides enough backstory that it’s easy to keep up. The previous ones are just as intoxicating as this one so I’m sure you’ll want to read those as well.
________________________________________
About the story…
________________________________________
Jessica is the daughter of a queen and promised to the prince of the Dark Fae realm. She doesn’t want to marry for political reasons but she will. For her people. War between the two realms is imminent if she does not.
Hawk is an assassin with one purpose and that is to find his sister who’s been missing for 10 years. It means nothing to him having to kill anyone to find her. His quest leads him to Jessica and the moment they meet, passion ignites and love, unlike what either of them thought was possible, claim them both.
This story is full of intrigue between the Earth Fae and the Dark Fae realms and things aren’t always what they seem. It does not take away from the romantic story but adds a complexity and set up of conflict that makes it even more riveting.
________________________________________
About the Characters…
________________________________________
Jessica is a very compelling character with a very unassuming nature. She likes to stay low-key and even though she is a Fae princess, she hates dressing up in ball gowns and playing the political game. What she does like, is killing demons. She has a warrior’s heart and is a fearless killer of those that pose a threat to the humans the Earth Fae are supposed to protect. Certainly a force to be reckoned with.
Hawk is completely the type of alpha male that we love – powerful, feared, sexy. However, if he wants to be in Jessica’s life, he must learn to temper that alpha instinct. No easy task for a vampire. He’s never been in a relationship before and doesn’t always say and do the right thing. He has a kind nature that we see in his quest to find his sister.
On their relationship:
I like how the author recounts some early scenes (e.g. when Jessica and Hawk first meet) both from Jessica’s perspective and then in the next chapter, from Hawks perspective. Since they can’t very tell at first meeting each other how attracted they are to each other, we get to see what each one is feeling at the exact time. It’s a very effective tool to use in this novel. Jessica is quiet and more of a thinker than a conversationalist so it worked well.
There is an amazing chemistry between Jessica and Hawk that’s intense yet completely tender at the same time.
I have to share with you this captivating excerpt that is very telling of Hawk’s personality and their potential relationship. It completely sold me on the novel.
Hawk to Jessica upon finding out about her arranged marriage…
But the idea of Jessica marrying that cold fish made his demon rage inside him.
“Are you required to be a virgin on your wedding night?”
“Of course not!” she snapped.
“But you are a virgin, aren’t you?”
She didn’t answer him directly. “Why are you so fixated on that?”
“Because you deserve to have a decent first time, Jessica. Every woman does. Let me…” he swallowed. “Let me give you that.”
She stared at him. “You can’t be serious. Are you suggesting that you be my first time?”
“Yes.”
“Right now?”
“Yes.”
“With all those guards…not to mention my mother and my fiancé…waiting back there for my return?”
She was right. It was insane. But – “Yes.”
She gestured around them. “Up against a tree? Or on the ground?”
The thought of laying her down on a bed of pine needle had him harder than granite. “Anywhere.”
She shook her head slowly. “Just so I have this straight. Less than a minute ago you were holding a knife to my throat, and a few minutes before that you jabbed a needle into my arm and said it was poison. And now you think…what? That I’m going to fall into your arms? I’ll say this for you, Hawk – you have a unique seduction routine. Does the whole threatening-a-woman’s-life thing get you a lot of dates, generally speaking?”
In spite of himself, one corner of his mouth twisted up in a smile. “When you put it like that, it does sound a little unconventional. But, Jessica…” He stepped close and put his hands on her shoulders. Her skin was warm, and his palms tingled. “I’ll make it good for you, I swear. And I know you want me. “
He could see the muscles of her throat move as she swallowed.
“How do you know that?”
He stroked his hands down her bare arms and back up to her shoulders. “The way you tremble when I touch you,” he said softly. “The way the blood rushes to your cheeks and your breath catches in your throat. The way your heart beats faster.”
All those things were happening now, and hope rose inside him. “No one will ever know. It will be our secret. And after tonight you’ll never see me again.”
A one-night stand with the assassin who threatened my life? How romantic.”
He could tell she was trying for sarcasm, but her voice shook a little.
“This isn’t about romance. It’s about desire. And I know you feel it, too.”
She lowered her eyes, and her lashes were like black feathers against her cheeks. He watched her take a deep breath and let it out, slowly.
“There’s something else you should know about me,” she said, lifting her eyes to meet his. There was a glint in their blue-green depths that should have warned him, but he was too far gone to see it.
“What?” he asked, lowering his head to kiss her…”
That’s where I’ll stop. You’ll have to read the novel to see what Jessica decides.
We also get to see more of the main characters from Books 1 and 2 as well as they are involved in the politics between Fae worlds. This is a good thing as those characters are too remarkable to ignore.
________________________________________
Bottom Line
________________________________________
Claiming the Vampire is a novel that any lover of steamy Paranormal Romance will not want to miss out on! The plot is solid, writing superb, with great character development. I highly recommend you add this one to the top of your To Be Read list!
Happy Reading!!
5 Bad Boys – Absolutely Loved It!!!!!
September 24, 2012
Jessica & Hawk
"So, for thirty minutes more she could pretend she wasn't a princess. She could pretend she wasn't engaged to a man she'd never met, a man who came from a race of Fae she'd always been told were evil and soulless. She could pretend she was a warrior with no duties more important than perfecting the skills of her trade. She could pretend she was free."
"Jessica held her last arrow in her hand and tried not to let the hopeless horror crawl inside her again. In a month she would leave Earth forever, and go to live with Prince Kel in the Dark Fae realm."
"Jessica made her own arrowheads, carving them from obsidian, and they were sharp enough to make the wind bleed."
"He was the most beautiful man she'd ever seen in her life. And he was a vampire."
"'I thought...' she swallowed, and then went ahead and finished. 'I thought you were Death. My death.' His eyes turned opaque. 'Why did you think that?' Maybe he'd cast some kind of spell on her... a spell that made her answer truthfully. 'Because you're so beautiful. And... familiar.' One corner of his mouth twitched. 'Thank you for the compliment. But I don't look familiar because I'm the grim reaper, you silly girl. I look familiar because we've met before.'"
"She'd never felt so... shaken. The way he looked at her... the way he'd spoken out loud the things that were inside her..."
"Had he only imagined that intense moment of connection? That moment when her eyes seemed a direct pathway to her soul?"
"They were the most remarkable eyes he'd ever seen. Blue-green irises ringed with ebony, set in a thicket of lashes and framed by dark brows that arched like wings across her forehead. Big and luminous and ocean-deep, tempting a man to fall into their depths."
"His anger had faded, replaced by emotions just as intense - but much more complicated. Frustration, and curiosity, and this unwanted desire that burned like fire."
"She turned and walked away without looking back. Hawk lay where she'd left him and listened to her footsteps. When they'd faded, he pressed his ear to the ground so he could feel their vibration in the earth. He lay there long after both the sound and the vibration were gone."
"It happened when he saw that gleam in her eye, a split second before she slammed her fist into his face. That was the moment he fell in love with Jessica Greenwood."
"Christ, he wanted her. He wanted to ease his way past her defenses and into her body, her heart, her very soul."
"If she could only lie here forever, cradled by mother earth at her back and Hawk's strong body all around her."
"He explored her with rough hunger, tasting her thoroughly before pulling back so he could kiss her throat. Once his lips touched here there she never wanted him to stop. He dragged his mouth across her throat again and again, every sweep of his lips making her quiver. His tongue found the beat of her pulse, and her body twisted in sudden excitement. The bristles on his jaw abraded her skin, and she hoped it left a mark. She wanted him to leave her raw."
"Evan's face changed then, as though a star were shining on him. 'My life began when Celia came into it. My heart lies at her feet.'"
"He wanted her to bruise him, to mark his body as she had marked his soul."
"'You're mine. Vampire males are so fucking possessive...I never knew how much, until I fell in love.'"
"So, for thirty minutes more she could pretend she wasn't a princess. She could pretend she wasn't engaged to a man she'd never met, a man who came from a race of Fae she'd always been told were evil and soulless. She could pretend she was a warrior with no duties more important than perfecting the skills of her trade. She could pretend she was free."
"Jessica held her last arrow in her hand and tried not to let the hopeless horror crawl inside her again. In a month she would leave Earth forever, and go to live with Prince Kel in the Dark Fae realm."
"Jessica made her own arrowheads, carving them from obsidian, and they were sharp enough to make the wind bleed."
"He was the most beautiful man she'd ever seen in her life. And he was a vampire."
"'I thought...' she swallowed, and then went ahead and finished. 'I thought you were Death. My death.' His eyes turned opaque. 'Why did you think that?' Maybe he'd cast some kind of spell on her... a spell that made her answer truthfully. 'Because you're so beautiful. And... familiar.' One corner of his mouth twitched. 'Thank you for the compliment. But I don't look familiar because I'm the grim reaper, you silly girl. I look familiar because we've met before.'"
"She'd never felt so... shaken. The way he looked at her... the way he'd spoken out loud the things that were inside her..."
"Had he only imagined that intense moment of connection? That moment when her eyes seemed a direct pathway to her soul?"
"They were the most remarkable eyes he'd ever seen. Blue-green irises ringed with ebony, set in a thicket of lashes and framed by dark brows that arched like wings across her forehead. Big and luminous and ocean-deep, tempting a man to fall into their depths."
"His anger had faded, replaced by emotions just as intense - but much more complicated. Frustration, and curiosity, and this unwanted desire that burned like fire."
"She turned and walked away without looking back. Hawk lay where she'd left him and listened to her footsteps. When they'd faded, he pressed his ear to the ground so he could feel their vibration in the earth. He lay there long after both the sound and the vibration were gone."
"It happened when he saw that gleam in her eye, a split second before she slammed her fist into his face. That was the moment he fell in love with Jessica Greenwood."
"Christ, he wanted her. He wanted to ease his way past her defenses and into her body, her heart, her very soul."
"If she could only lie here forever, cradled by mother earth at her back and Hawk's strong body all around her."
"He explored her with rough hunger, tasting her thoroughly before pulling back so he could kiss her throat. Once his lips touched here there she never wanted him to stop. He dragged his mouth across her throat again and again, every sweep of his lips making her quiver. His tongue found the beat of her pulse, and her body twisted in sudden excitement. The bristles on his jaw abraded her skin, and she hoped it left a mark. She wanted him to leave her raw."
"Evan's face changed then, as though a star were shining on him. 'My life began when Celia came into it. My heart lies at her feet.'"
"He wanted her to bruise him, to mark his body as she had marked his soul."
"'You're mine. Vampire males are so fucking possessive...I never knew how much, until I fell in love.'"
October 2, 2012
I just found book 3, which absolutely blew me away. I am still in a sort of shock by how well written this book was. It takes what started in book 1 as a quick short steamy paranormal fling, and drives it with force into the realm of a great novel. It has amazing character development, page turning story-line, in-depth and intelligent writing, and flawless editing - all of which together are rarely found in paranormal romance novels. The plot was not just some obligatory backdrop for the romance, it was incredibly imaginative and action packed. I loved the story of these strong Fae women and the vampires that they tamed. in my opinion, the story is more about the women and their lives and adventures, than about actual vampires. Our vampire studs in these stories are more supporting roles if you ask me, which is fine. I got the books looking for a vampire story, but found i enjoyed the lives and adventures of our faery heroines even more.
writing: 5 stars
editing: 5 stars
plot: 5 stars
hot romance scenes: 5 stars
I was shocked and sad to see nothing else from this writer. I would have thought she was one of those writers with lots of books to her name that i could purchase. Hopefully more will be forthcoming from Chloe Hart.
writing: 5 stars
editing: 5 stars
plot: 5 stars
hot romance scenes: 5 stars
I was shocked and sad to see nothing else from this writer. I would have thought she was one of those writers with lots of books to her name that i could purchase. Hopefully more will be forthcoming from Chloe Hart.
July 2, 2013
Third novel in the Blood and Absinthe series.
So, this book was a bit longer than the previous two books and although I loved the brevity in the two books before but this story was the perfect length. The author wouldn't have been able to portray the story as well if she had clipped it shorter and turned it into a novella.
What I loved about this novel - The character descriptions grew with each turn of the page. We got in depth, to the core, deep rooted emotions. Plus, we got the characters from the first two novels in on the action in this novel as well.
If Chloe Hart keeps this up I'll soon be saying move over Charlaine Harris because I've gotta make room for my new favorite paranormal writer.
So, this book was a bit longer than the previous two books and although I loved the brevity in the two books before but this story was the perfect length. The author wouldn't have been able to portray the story as well if she had clipped it shorter and turned it into a novella.
What I loved about this novel - The character descriptions grew with each turn of the page. We got in depth, to the core, deep rooted emotions. Plus, we got the characters from the first two novels in on the action in this novel as well.
If Chloe Hart keeps this up I'll soon be saying move over Charlaine Harris because I've gotta make room for my new favorite paranormal writer.
September 25, 2012
Fae Princess Jessica has always just wanted to be a warrior. But she understands that when duty calls, she will do her part for the good of the Fae. Even if her part is marrying a prince she has never met from the Dark Fae world. Hawk is mesmerized by Jessica, her beauty and grace. It doesn't take long for Hawk to realize, Jessica, his Jessica cannot marry some dark fae prince.
I loved how this series was written. The first book mentions a problem. The second book delves into the problem, and by the third book that problem is being solved. But all three books were about different couples. So cool.
This book was not only about Jessica and Hawk, but the other two couples from the previous books had their own time in the spot light as well. We got to spend a little time with Liz and Jack. That was hot! Then we're there for the claiming that never came in the last book between Celia and Evan. I loved it! I loved that they were a part of this book.
One thing I was a little sad about was Prince Kel. I ended up really liking him. I sort of wanted to experience his love story too. Also, I'm glad he was able to be with Mary, but I hate that they had to close off the portals completely, so Hawk finally gets his sister back, only to lose her again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FAVORITE QUOTES
"Just so I have this straight. Less than a minute ago you were holding a knife to my throat, and a few minutes before that you jabbed a needle into my arm and said it was poison. And now you think... what? That I'm going fall into your arms? I'll say this for you, Hawk- you have a unique seduction routine. Does that whole threatening-a-woman's-life thing get you a lot of dates, generally speaking?"
~Jessica
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~Hawk
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I've been working on a spell to locate portals, but I put it on hold after Jessica's engagement. I'll start working on that again. In the meantime-"
"In the meantime, I'll get my hands around Talia's throat and squeeze until she gives us the information we need."
"Hold on there, cowboy," Liz said. "We're going to need an actual strategy."
"I like Hawk's plan," Evan said. "Why do we need to complicate it?"
~Celia, Hawk, Liz and Evan
I loved how this series was written. The first book mentions a problem. The second book delves into the problem, and by the third book that problem is being solved. But all three books were about different couples. So cool.
This book was not only about Jessica and Hawk, but the other two couples from the previous books had their own time in the spot light as well. We got to spend a little time with Liz and Jack. That was hot! Then we're there for the claiming that never came in the last book between Celia and Evan. I loved it! I loved that they were a part of this book.
One thing I was a little sad about was Prince Kel. I ended up really liking him. I sort of wanted to experience his love story too. Also, I'm glad he was able to be with Mary, but I hate that they had to close off the portals completely, so Hawk finally gets his sister back, only to lose her again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FAVORITE QUOTES
"Just so I have this straight. Less than a minute ago you were holding a knife to my throat, and a few minutes before that you jabbed a needle into my arm and said it was poison. And now you think... what? That I'm going fall into your arms? I'll say this for you, Hawk- you have a unique seduction routine. Does that whole threatening-a-woman's-life thing get you a lot of dates, generally speaking?"
~Jessica
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It hadn't happened when he'd stopped her from killing herself. It hadn't happened when he caressed her, and saw the evidence of her desire.
It happened when he saw that gleam in her eye, a split second before she slammed her fist into his face.
That was the moment he fell in love with Jessica Greenwood.
~Hawk
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"I've been working on a spell to locate portals, but I put it on hold after Jessica's engagement. I'll start working on that again. In the meantime-"
"In the meantime, I'll get my hands around Talia's throat and squeeze until she gives us the information we need."
"Hold on there, cowboy," Liz said. "We're going to need an actual strategy."
"I like Hawk's plan," Evan said. "Why do we need to complicate it?"
~Celia, Hawk, Liz and Evan
July 17, 2016
* I was given a free copy of this book by the author. The review is based solely on my opinion and was not influenced by author or publisher. *
As Demon and Demon Hunter, Hawk and Jessica should be natural enemies. At least that's what Talia, Jessica's mother and Queen of the Green Fae thinks. Although Talia isn't what she appears to be either and Hawk knows this. Should Hawk tell Jessica the truth about her mother and risk losing the chemistry building between them? If he doesn't innocent lives will be at stake, including Jessica's.
Claiming the Vampire is the third book in the Blood and Absinthe series. This book centers around Jessica, Princess of the Green Fae clan and Hawk, the semi-retired vampire assassin. I definitely recommend reading Taming the Vampire and Bound by the Vampire, books 1 and 2 in the series first. Jessica and Hawk are introduced earlier in the series and there is a continuing story line throughout all 3 books. Main characters Liz and Jack from Taming the Vampire and Celia and Evan from Bound by the Vampire play important secondary roles in this installment.
I love the character of Jessica, on one hand she is a kick ass warrior and she seems older than she is. Then on the other hand when it comes to dealing with men she is totally inexperienced and you remember that she is a young woman. Hawk is similar in that he has two sides as well. He has the tough as nail assassin side and the soft, loyal teddy bear side. The author does a great job developing the relationships between the characters, both main and secondary. This is something she is able to do throughout the series. The sex scenes are steamy and there are just enough of them. And although I could do without the 'backdoor' action (just not my cup of tea), the scene was handled tastefully.
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series and highly recommend it to all fans of paranormal romance. I look forward to more work from Chloe Hart.
As Demon and Demon Hunter, Hawk and Jessica should be natural enemies. At least that's what Talia, Jessica's mother and Queen of the Green Fae thinks. Although Talia isn't what she appears to be either and Hawk knows this. Should Hawk tell Jessica the truth about her mother and risk losing the chemistry building between them? If he doesn't innocent lives will be at stake, including Jessica's.
Claiming the Vampire is the third book in the Blood and Absinthe series. This book centers around Jessica, Princess of the Green Fae clan and Hawk, the semi-retired vampire assassin. I definitely recommend reading Taming the Vampire and Bound by the Vampire, books 1 and 2 in the series first. Jessica and Hawk are introduced earlier in the series and there is a continuing story line throughout all 3 books. Main characters Liz and Jack from Taming the Vampire and Celia and Evan from Bound by the Vampire play important secondary roles in this installment.
I love the character of Jessica, on one hand she is a kick ass warrior and she seems older than she is. Then on the other hand when it comes to dealing with men she is totally inexperienced and you remember that she is a young woman. Hawk is similar in that he has two sides as well. He has the tough as nail assassin side and the soft, loyal teddy bear side. The author does a great job developing the relationships between the characters, both main and secondary. This is something she is able to do throughout the series. The sex scenes are steamy and there are just enough of them. And although I could do without the 'backdoor' action (just not my cup of tea), the scene was handled tastefully.
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire series and highly recommend it to all fans of paranormal romance. I look forward to more work from Chloe Hart.
May 25, 2014
I read the first two novellas, "Taming the Vampire," and "Bound by the Vampire" before I read Claiming the Vampire, but there is enough information in this third installation of the
Blood and Absinthe
series for you to read it without having to go through the novellas first.
I am impressed in how interesting Chloe Hart has built the framework of her world in these three novels and how she has incorporated the significance of "absinthe" into it. There wasn't much mention of absinthe in the first novella (basically she just said that strengthens the powers of those of elvish descent). But as you continue on into the series, Hart has revealed, layer by layer, the properties of this herb and how it greatly affect the elvish culture and other supernatural beings. So far I've immensely enjoyed how each successive novel has deepened and colored the Blood and Absinthe world.
What I have not been impressed with is Hart's relationship development between romantic leads. I forgave her first two novellas, since she had a limited amount of space to really dive into her characters, however, Claiming the Vampire is a full length novel, so I am going to be slightly more critical. I don't think the main protagonists, Hawk and Jessica, have been around each other long enough for them to really fall in love. I think they knew each only for a few days before Hawk was hit with the "I'm in love" realization. This was a big disappointment for me.
If I could 3.5 stars I would. I officially gave this book a 3 star rating because after reading the first two books in the series, I was anticipating that her full length novel would do a better job with romantic development, which sadly was not the case. I will probably, however, continue to read the series because I have a feeling that the author will continue to expand this world.
I am impressed in how interesting Chloe Hart has built the framework of her world in these three novels and how she has incorporated the significance of "absinthe" into it. There wasn't much mention of absinthe in the first novella (basically she just said that strengthens the powers of those of elvish descent). But as you continue on into the series, Hart has revealed, layer by layer, the properties of this herb and how it greatly affect the elvish culture and other supernatural beings. So far I've immensely enjoyed how each successive novel has deepened and colored the Blood and Absinthe world.
What I have not been impressed with is Hart's relationship development between romantic leads. I forgave her first two novellas, since she had a limited amount of space to really dive into her characters, however, Claiming the Vampire is a full length novel, so I am going to be slightly more critical. I don't think the main protagonists, Hawk and Jessica, have been around each other long enough for them to really fall in love. I think they knew each only for a few days before Hawk was hit with the "I'm in love" realization. This was a big disappointment for me.
If I could 3.5 stars I would. I officially gave this book a 3 star rating because after reading the first two books in the series, I was anticipating that her full length novel would do a better job with romantic development, which sadly was not the case. I will probably, however, continue to read the series because I have a feeling that the author will continue to expand this world.
January 1, 2015
Overall plot concept - very good
tieing in the 2 previous books - excellent
sex scenes - done really well - some of the better writing in the book, I really enjoyed the scene between Liz & Jack
characters - good - I felt there could have been more depth added to them, I enjoyed having the pairs from the previous books along for the ride, but felt their strengths/weakness could have been expanded, again this would have helped the story line.
I felt that there could have been more development overall, it seemed rushed, movement between some of the chapters did not seem natural - like gaps, some of the passages I had to read over because of the way they were written (not free flowing, almost felt like someone else was writing).
I felt that Jessica & Hawk fell for each other way too quickly, so much could have been added here once the stage was set. I was not looking for a long courtship, but more contact, angst ,moments between the two in general. The fighting/training scene in the Dark Fae castle was excellent and a great setup for their relationship to move forward.
The background for the bargain between the Green Fae Queen & the Dark Fae Queen was briefly touched on - again an area where more development would have been great, and it would have added to the story line, especially once we learn how long the 2 had been conspiring with each other.
Overall I enjoyed the book and would like to see another book in the series. I think there are enough open issues that another book could be written to tie up loose ends, clarify issues and give the series a great big HEA
tieing in the 2 previous books - excellent
sex scenes - done really well - some of the better writing in the book, I really enjoyed the scene between Liz & Jack
characters - good - I felt there could have been more depth added to them, I enjoyed having the pairs from the previous books along for the ride, but felt their strengths/weakness could have been expanded, again this would have helped the story line.
I felt that there could have been more development overall, it seemed rushed, movement between some of the chapters did not seem natural - like gaps, some of the passages I had to read over because of the way they were written (not free flowing, almost felt like someone else was writing).
I felt that Jessica & Hawk fell for each other way too quickly, so much could have been added here once the stage was set. I was not looking for a long courtship, but more contact, angst ,moments between the two in general. The fighting/training scene in the Dark Fae castle was excellent and a great setup for their relationship to move forward.
The background for the bargain between the Green Fae Queen & the Dark Fae Queen was briefly touched on - again an area where more development would have been great, and it would have added to the story line, especially once we learn how long the 2 had been conspiring with each other.
Overall I enjoyed the book and would like to see another book in the series. I think there are enough open issues that another book could be written to tie up loose ends, clarify issues and give the series a great big HEA
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2012
Best of the three! The series gets better and better!
Jessica is half Fae and is also a Fae princess. I love how the books cross each other. Jessica was actually one of the people that was trying to capture Celia in book 2 and Hawk, the vampire, was one hired to kill Celia.
Now Hawk is going to collect his payment (even though Celia is alive) because it isn't his fault the job got called off. While at the mansion of his latest employer he notices Jess in a meadow practicing with her Bow and Arrow, in a formal gown no less. She intrigues him and can't take his eyes off her. That night something changed between them...I actually loved this scene...how they met.
When they part, Hawk can't stop thinking about the princess and wants to be her first. Problem is she is betrothed to the prince of the dark Fae.
There are so many twist and turns...the bad people are not who you think...the book is still HOT!! So sad the series is over :(
Jessica is half Fae and is also a Fae princess. I love how the books cross each other. Jessica was actually one of the people that was trying to capture Celia in book 2 and Hawk, the vampire, was one hired to kill Celia.
Now Hawk is going to collect his payment (even though Celia is alive) because it isn't his fault the job got called off. While at the mansion of his latest employer he notices Jess in a meadow practicing with her Bow and Arrow, in a formal gown no less. She intrigues him and can't take his eyes off her. That night something changed between them...I actually loved this scene...how they met.
When they part, Hawk can't stop thinking about the princess and wants to be her first. Problem is she is betrothed to the prince of the dark Fae.
There are so many twist and turns...the bad people are not who you think...the book is still HOT!! So sad the series is over :(
July 3, 2013
giddy giddy gumdrop!!!
totally the best one so far by like freakin miles! I loved it loved it loved it!
Hawk was dreamy and sensual and hot beyond hot and romantic and caring and then he freakin sang to her!!
Jessica was a sea of emotion behind her hard surface, sweet and loving and nervous with her heart but braver than brave!!!
So good to get back in touch with Jack and Liz and Evan and Celia!! Jack dominating Liz.... wowzers that was some saucey arse debauchery right there!!!!! delicious!
Did I say I love it!!!!? Great value too I might add.... run along and purchase... you won't be disappointed :-D
totally the best one so far by like freakin miles! I loved it loved it loved it!
Hawk was dreamy and sensual and hot beyond hot and romantic and caring and then he freakin sang to her!!
Jessica was a sea of emotion behind her hard surface, sweet and loving and nervous with her heart but braver than brave!!!
So good to get back in touch with Jack and Liz and Evan and Celia!! Jack dominating Liz.... wowzers that was some saucey arse debauchery right there!!!!! delicious!
Did I say I love it!!!!? Great value too I might add.... run along and purchase... you won't be disappointed :-D
October 22, 2016
I knew that Hawk and Jessica had a chemistry in Book 2. And I was happy that Claiming the Vampire was about them.
It's just that I never expected that Hawk (in his being strong or not believing about "love" something) would fell in love in the first chapter? or maybe that was the second chapter? Personally I really find it too weird - they didn't have that much exposure in the previous stories. Then H became mushy mushy on the next chapters which made rolled my eyes a lot of times! Geez.
I think the story has a lot of potential. This could be written in a novella like the previous ones.
And I'm interested actually to know MORE about Mary and Kel.
It's just that I never expected that Hawk (in his being strong or not believing about "love" something) would fell in love in the first chapter? or maybe that was the second chapter? Personally I really find it too weird - they didn't have that much exposure in the previous stories. Then H became mushy mushy on the next chapters which made rolled my eyes a lot of times! Geez.
I think the story has a lot of potential. This could be written in a novella like the previous ones.
And I'm interested actually to know MORE about Mary and Kel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2012
great series, action, romance/sex, twists, some humor, plotting. This book is about Princess Jessica (green fae) & Hawk (vampire). Both are warriors & assasins, & crossed paths in the previous boook while on assignment. This book continues the overall story from the previous book pretty well. Moves right along, grabs your interest & keep it. Great ending, and it makes you think of where this series might be going. So many possibilities with what happened with Jessica, Kel, Talia, etc. Look forward to more. Great characters.
May 6, 2013
All of this series were to short.
This is the continueing tale of vampires and the fey lovers they take. there is a big gaps though, it really never explores the green fey which is the base of the tale. I liked these books and this one was very good as well. Hawk, for an assassin was pretty tame and not overly clever or skilled, leading me to believe he was a bac jumper. the princess was supposed to be a cold hearted killer, but she fell apart at the knwoledge her mother was a traitor...
this tale is opena dn needs to have alot more story added to the tale
This is the continueing tale of vampires and the fey lovers they take. there is a big gaps though, it really never explores the green fey which is the base of the tale. I liked these books and this one was very good as well. Hawk, for an assassin was pretty tame and not overly clever or skilled, leading me to believe he was a bac jumper. the princess was supposed to be a cold hearted killer, but she fell apart at the knwoledge her mother was a traitor...
this tale is opena dn needs to have alot more story added to the tale
July 3, 2017
In Chloe Hart's
Claiming the Vampire
, the third book Blood and Absinthe, things heat up fast. This book brings in new characters and brings back some old ones in this page-turner where earth and another world hang by threads filled secret plots, treachery, betrayal, danger, heart-pounding romances, temptation, mystery and inner-battles between duty and desire. I hope to read
Claiming the Vampire's
continuation,
Drawn to the Vampire
soon.
January 25, 2015
Since this in an expanded story of the two novellas, and completes the story, I was more impressed with this book. The story was much better in that more time was given to details and backgrounds of characters. I would also say I would continue to read this series of the author were to write more as I found myself asking" what happens next?" Plus, I love vampires, period. As long as you don't mess with the lore to badly, you pretty much can't go wrong with me.
April 13, 2012
Let me start by saying more????? What do you think Chloe another book soon. lol Anyway i really liked this one. I love the strong female lead. Jessica was awesome and powerful. I love the vampire coming to terms with loving an warrior and their strength. It was a really coll message and the story awesome awesome and very hot. great read!
July 15, 2012
Book 3 in the Blood and Absinthe series. These books are short and sweet (too short) and vampires are only a portion of this loveable cast. Hart cleverly ties Absinthe to the Fae race as a toxic but necessary addiction and builds a unique world that will have me continuing to watch for future releases.
July 27, 2012
I read the first book basically because it a free ebook on amazon. It was a quick read. I had to read the second book to see what the characters were up too. So of course I had to read the third book. Very easy and quick read. Will appeal to readers who like stories about vampire, not to much like Twilight.
May 9, 2013
Awesome ending! It's finalised, and yet there could be so much more to come. The characters are, as always, enticing, alluring and fascinating. The storyline was a little repetitive, yet fascinating also. I've never been a big fan of Fae, but the combination of Fae and vampires works really well.
So glad I stumbled upon this series.
So glad I stumbled upon this series.
June 11, 2017
I am really really enjoying this series. Reminds me very much of Black Dagger Brotherhood series though not as long, and I was going to say not AS 'steamy' until this one. They are pretty explicit, like BDB, but this one is well, Dddaaaaammmmmnnnnnn!
January 12, 2016
Another great read
I'm loving this series! I like that the character s from the other books are not forgotten but included. I really like the world the author is creating. If you are looking a good fun read with a lot of action give this series a try.
I'm loving this series! I like that the character s from the other books are not forgotten but included. I really like the world the author is creating. If you are looking a good fun read with a lot of action give this series a try.
April 12, 2012
This book was soo awesome i love how all all the characters come together kept me up all night cant wait for the next book :D
July 3, 2012
Chloe did not dissapoint. I enjoyed how all the character from previous novels made an appearance. Fun, enjoyable read. Will continue to look for other books from her.
May 15, 2012
Loved it!!! Couldn't put this book down!! This is now my favorite in the series!! I highly recommend! Jessica and Hawk are great! The story line was fantastic! All and all a great read!!
July 2, 2012
wow i've love all these books and this one didn't disappoint!
March 17, 2016
Love this series. Wish they were longer. I hope there is another installment in the works.
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