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Preternaturals #4
Life Cycle
... Immortality can be a bitch
the first murderer... now the first incubus. And the most lethal. He's killed too many women to count, luring them to his bed, feeding his dark urges, then taking their lives for their foolishness. He especially likes killing witches, one of the few beings dangerous to his kind. So killing Tam shouldn't be no problem.
But there's one thing he doesn't know about her.
Tamara has lived nearly two thousand years, trapped by a spell of her own creation. An enemy and former lover is stalking her, intent on torturing and killing her to steal her magic. There is only one demon strong enough to release her from the curse. But will Cain honor her death wish, or keep her for himself, no matter the cost?
If you like Zoe Winters you may also enjoy H.P. Mallory, Larissa Ione, and J.R. Ward.
Books in the Preternaturals
Blood Lust (book 1)
Save My Soul (book 2)
The Catalyst (book 3)
Life Cycle (book 4)
Forbidden (book 5)
Cat Fight
Dark Mercy
258 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2012
12 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Winters
26 books503 followersAuthor of paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
Book 6 in the Preternaturals series Available for Pre-order now at Amazon Kindle and Kobo Books.
Author Bio:
Zoe Winters writes quirky and sometimes dark paranormal romance and fantasy. Her favorite colors are rainbow and clear.
She is known for her preternaturals series which combines romance front story with larger urban fantasy back story which develops over the course of several books.
Her world contains: demons, vampires, werewolves, werecats, and other shapeshifters, magic users such as witches and wizards, angels, and humans who are unaware of the magical world around them.
Zoe can be found at zoewintersbooks.com To subscribe to her newsletter, fill out the contact form.
Fun supplementary material for the preternaturals series can be found at theriantype.com
Book 6 in the Preternaturals series Available for Pre-order now at Amazon Kindle and Kobo Books.
Author Bio:
Zoe Winters writes quirky and sometimes dark paranormal romance and fantasy. Her favorite colors are rainbow and clear.
She is known for her preternaturals series which combines romance front story with larger urban fantasy back story which develops over the course of several books.
Her world contains: demons, vampires, werewolves, werecats, and other shapeshifters, magic users such as witches and wizards, angels, and humans who are unaware of the magical world around them.
Zoe can be found at zoewintersbooks.com To subscribe to her newsletter, fill out the contact form.
Fun supplementary material for the preternaturals series can be found at theriantype.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 29, 2012
I love witches.
I love demons. Especially incubi.
When demons and witches collide, well my friends, that is all things good in this world. This book, Life Cycle, focuses on Cain and Tam. Cain has been around Zoe Winter’s books for a bit, having shown up in Blood Lust, Save My Soul, and The Catalyst. We have previously met Tam in The Catalyst. I also suspect she made an appearance in Save My Soul, since that focused on her best friend, Anna. But I haven’t read that one so anything I say there is just speculation. Either way, as soon as I got to see a little bit of Cain in The Catalyst I knew I had to have more. And more is definitely what you get in Life Cycle.
Cain and Tam have a rocky relationship at best. They are both old enough to realize that the other can be helpful when it comes to battles and things like that. But the problem is that they just don’t get along. They are like oil and vinegar. They just don’t mix. Well, until they do. Then they are absolutely delicious.
He laughed. “I don’t know if I hate you or admire you. I don’t normally let anyone speak to me like that.”
I found Life Cycle to be such a fantastic read, I couldn’t put it down. Tam is being hunted, Tam is being protected, Tam is being… well, she’s being fed from by Cain. And that is certainly hot. Cain is the very first incubus, and he is eight thousand years old. On top of all of that he is a man. All of that leads up to one very stubborn and set in his ways individual. Tam is quite old herself, we learn a few of her secrets here, and she is exactly the type of woman who can put the smack down on Cain and make him see that maybe, just maybe, the way he has been living for eight thousand years isn’t necessarily the only way.
I really love love love the way Cain steps up in this book. He takes care of Tam, more than anyone else even realizes. His demon realm is the perfect place for her to hide out. I love every single scene that takes place there. It seems like such a magical and dark place. Zoe Winters has done a fabulous job building this whole Preternaturals world, but the demon realm is absolutely my favorite part of all of it.
Tam is so very powerful, I just got a kick out of it every time her powers came into use. That witch has some interesting tricks up her sleeve! Tam really shined in this book. She is fiery and intelligent, strong and brutal. Yep, brutal. And that is why she is so perfect for Cain, because he is all of those things himself. And these two need the other to snap them back into line. And when they do, the windows definitely steam up! I really adored the slow way they fell for each other. There were times I wasn’t sure it was going to happen. These two stubborn fools deserve each other in the best way possible.
Also it was nice to say hello to some other characters I got to know a bit in The Catalyst. This whole world that Zoe has built is so thorough, I feel like I could step through the pages and be right there and know exactly where I am. This story was definitely not lacking on any action or mystery. Everything played out perfectly, and there were more than enough surprises to keep me entertained and wanting more at the same time.
If you haven’t read any of Zoe’s books yet, I’m not entirely sure what you are waiting for. I’ve reviewed a couple of her books, both as Zoe and as Kitty, and I can tell you that she is a fantastic storyteller. It never takes me long to get lost in her story, and ignore the outside world. Just like her other books, this one moves fast and grabs you by the ass to make sure you are along for the ride. I loved it.
I love demons. Especially incubi.
When demons and witches collide, well my friends, that is all things good in this world. This book, Life Cycle, focuses on Cain and Tam. Cain has been around Zoe Winter’s books for a bit, having shown up in Blood Lust, Save My Soul, and The Catalyst. We have previously met Tam in The Catalyst. I also suspect she made an appearance in Save My Soul, since that focused on her best friend, Anna. But I haven’t read that one so anything I say there is just speculation. Either way, as soon as I got to see a little bit of Cain in The Catalyst I knew I had to have more. And more is definitely what you get in Life Cycle.
Cain and Tam have a rocky relationship at best. They are both old enough to realize that the other can be helpful when it comes to battles and things like that. But the problem is that they just don’t get along. They are like oil and vinegar. They just don’t mix. Well, until they do. Then they are absolutely delicious.
He laughed. “I don’t know if I hate you or admire you. I don’t normally let anyone speak to me like that.”
I found Life Cycle to be such a fantastic read, I couldn’t put it down. Tam is being hunted, Tam is being protected, Tam is being… well, she’s being fed from by Cain. And that is certainly hot. Cain is the very first incubus, and he is eight thousand years old. On top of all of that he is a man. All of that leads up to one very stubborn and set in his ways individual. Tam is quite old herself, we learn a few of her secrets here, and she is exactly the type of woman who can put the smack down on Cain and make him see that maybe, just maybe, the way he has been living for eight thousand years isn’t necessarily the only way.
I really love love love the way Cain steps up in this book. He takes care of Tam, more than anyone else even realizes. His demon realm is the perfect place for her to hide out. I love every single scene that takes place there. It seems like such a magical and dark place. Zoe Winters has done a fabulous job building this whole Preternaturals world, but the demon realm is absolutely my favorite part of all of it.
Tam is so very powerful, I just got a kick out of it every time her powers came into use. That witch has some interesting tricks up her sleeve! Tam really shined in this book. She is fiery and intelligent, strong and brutal. Yep, brutal. And that is why she is so perfect for Cain, because he is all of those things himself. And these two need the other to snap them back into line. And when they do, the windows definitely steam up! I really adored the slow way they fell for each other. There were times I wasn’t sure it was going to happen. These two stubborn fools deserve each other in the best way possible.
Also it was nice to say hello to some other characters I got to know a bit in The Catalyst. This whole world that Zoe has built is so thorough, I feel like I could step through the pages and be right there and know exactly where I am. This story was definitely not lacking on any action or mystery. Everything played out perfectly, and there were more than enough surprises to keep me entertained and wanting more at the same time.
If you haven’t read any of Zoe’s books yet, I’m not entirely sure what you are waiting for. I’ve reviewed a couple of her books, both as Zoe and as Kitty, and I can tell you that she is a fantastic storyteller. It never takes me long to get lost in her story, and ignore the outside world. Just like her other books, this one moves fast and grabs you by the ass to make sure you are along for the ride. I loved it.
September 6, 2012
Life Cycle
I have just finished Life Cycle by Zoe Winters. It is Book 4 of her Preternaturals Series, and while reading the first three books would be equally pleasurable, it is not necessary. I will warn you that once you read Life Cycle, you will want to devour everything she has written.
DESCRIPTION:
Immortality can be a bitch…
Tamara has lived nearly two thousand years, trapped by a spell of her own creation. Hunted by her enemy and former lover, she knows there is only one man strong enough to release her from the curse. But will Cain honor her death wish, or keep her for himself, whatever the cost?
Two ancient souls. Two weary fighters, torn between love and hate, forced to decide if the other could be worth living for.
Heat Level 3 of 5.
Some sexually explicit content and innuendo.
EXCERPT:
***
“Are you sure this is how you want to engage with me, Tam? Do you know what my demons would have done to you if I hadn’t stopped them? They are very loyal. You don’t attack me here. Maybe in your silly human world, but not here.” He spoke without raising his voice at her. His tone was level. His eyes didn’t even glow, but they didn’t have to.
The energy ball faded and died in her hand. “You promised you’d kill me. Before you got to my house, I was going to come find you because I thought you’d do it.”
A look of surprise crossed his face, but he covered it. “And that promise still stands.” He moved toward her and stroked her cheek. “I will kill you when I tire of you. And there is nothing you can do about it. Throwing energy balls at me will only make me disinclined to put you out of your misery. Just enjoy the ride, sweetheart. You’ll die soon enough… when I get bored. Believe me, that’s never taken longer than a week. Surely you can struggle through a week of passion with me.”
Every fiber in her being screamed to kill him, not that she could. The second best option would be to seal him in a jar and bury it in the middle of his desert where no one would ever find it—an option she was considering.
“I’m not going to be your concubine.”
A smirk. “Of course you are. What other option do you have?”
Smug bastard.
***
In case my introduction didn’t tip you off, I loved this book. It is tightly written, the characters are well realized, and the plot flawless. I found no editing issues. No spoilers here. So even though I thought I knew how it would all end, I wanted to go along for the ride and experience it through the eyes of Tam and Cain. Zoe takes a Preternatural approach to the Jack the Ripper story with a light but deft hand that puts a paranormal twist to the story without over-reaching or over-doing the connection. Jack, the antagonist is crazy and love stricken, which makes him even creepier. Cain is a doomed demon in more ways than one. Tam is smart and snarky and tough and tormented; all the things I love in a female character. The energy between Cain and Tam is fun and sexy.
***
Zoe Winters writes quirky and sometimes dark paranormal romance. Her favorite colors are rainbow and clear.
To receive updates on new releases from the author, send an email to: zoewintersbooks AT gmail DOT com with "Subscribe" in the subject line. Newsletters go out only when there is an actual new release or a big contest. Your inbox will not be cluttered, newsletters won't go out more frequently than once a month, and you may unsubscribe at any time.
You can visit the author at: http://www.zoewintersbook.com
Be sure also to visit http://www.theriantype.com for some fun supplemental material.
Twitter Page
Like her on Facebook
Amazon Author Page
Goodreads Author Profile
I have just finished Life Cycle by Zoe Winters. It is Book 4 of her Preternaturals Series, and while reading the first three books would be equally pleasurable, it is not necessary. I will warn you that once you read Life Cycle, you will want to devour everything she has written.
DESCRIPTION:
Immortality can be a bitch…
Tamara has lived nearly two thousand years, trapped by a spell of her own creation. Hunted by her enemy and former lover, she knows there is only one man strong enough to release her from the curse. But will Cain honor her death wish, or keep her for himself, whatever the cost?
Two ancient souls. Two weary fighters, torn between love and hate, forced to decide if the other could be worth living for.
Heat Level 3 of 5.
Some sexually explicit content and innuendo.
EXCERPT:
***
“Are you sure this is how you want to engage with me, Tam? Do you know what my demons would have done to you if I hadn’t stopped them? They are very loyal. You don’t attack me here. Maybe in your silly human world, but not here.” He spoke without raising his voice at her. His tone was level. His eyes didn’t even glow, but they didn’t have to.
The energy ball faded and died in her hand. “You promised you’d kill me. Before you got to my house, I was going to come find you because I thought you’d do it.”
A look of surprise crossed his face, but he covered it. “And that promise still stands.” He moved toward her and stroked her cheek. “I will kill you when I tire of you. And there is nothing you can do about it. Throwing energy balls at me will only make me disinclined to put you out of your misery. Just enjoy the ride, sweetheart. You’ll die soon enough… when I get bored. Believe me, that’s never taken longer than a week. Surely you can struggle through a week of passion with me.”
Every fiber in her being screamed to kill him, not that she could. The second best option would be to seal him in a jar and bury it in the middle of his desert where no one would ever find it—an option she was considering.
“I’m not going to be your concubine.”
A smirk. “Of course you are. What other option do you have?”
Smug bastard.
***
In case my introduction didn’t tip you off, I loved this book. It is tightly written, the characters are well realized, and the plot flawless. I found no editing issues. No spoilers here. So even though I thought I knew how it would all end, I wanted to go along for the ride and experience it through the eyes of Tam and Cain. Zoe takes a Preternatural approach to the Jack the Ripper story with a light but deft hand that puts a paranormal twist to the story without over-reaching or over-doing the connection. Jack, the antagonist is crazy and love stricken, which makes him even creepier. Cain is a doomed demon in more ways than one. Tam is smart and snarky and tough and tormented; all the things I love in a female character. The energy between Cain and Tam is fun and sexy.
***
Zoe Winters writes quirky and sometimes dark paranormal romance. Her favorite colors are rainbow and clear.
To receive updates on new releases from the author, send an email to: zoewintersbooks AT gmail DOT com with "Subscribe" in the subject line. Newsletters go out only when there is an actual new release or a big contest. Your inbox will not be cluttered, newsletters won't go out more frequently than once a month, and you may unsubscribe at any time.
You can visit the author at: http://www.zoewintersbook.com
Be sure also to visit http://www.theriantype.com for some fun supplemental material.
Twitter Page
Like her on Facebook
Amazon Author Page
Goodreads Author Profile
August 13, 2012
3.5 stars
I picked up 'Life Cycle' and finished it in one sitting. I just adore the preterverse and as with all the other books in the series, 'Life Cycle' is extremely well written and easy to read. This book focuses on one of my favorite characters - Cain, and a witch - Tam. I loved the sexual tension and constant battle of wills between these two. The chemistry between them was always sizzling hot, though I personally would have liked to see a little more steam. Maybe I just have a smutty little mind - I'm okay with that:). I also enjoyed the character arc with Cain - will he allow himself to love and be loved or not? If so, what does that mean for him? For his dimension? Does it change who he is? Oh, the agony of being a hotter than hot, bad-ass demon!
Another reviewer commented that she didn't feel the stakes were high enough and I have to agree. I didn't completely buy into the severity of the threat caused by Jack's actions. I also would have loved to see the scenes at the end between Tam and Jack drawn out a bit more to amp up my anxiety level. The final decisions between Cain and Tam felt a little rushed. Ultimately, the ending was satisfying but it felt a bit anti-climactic after all the build-up throughout the story.
Finally, I was glad to see Fr. Hadrian again, even though I thought he was an absolute idiot in this book. I can't wait to see what happens with him in the future. I think the next book focuses on his story. I hope it's as juicy as all the other books in the series!
I picked up 'Life Cycle' and finished it in one sitting. I just adore the preterverse and as with all the other books in the series, 'Life Cycle' is extremely well written and easy to read. This book focuses on one of my favorite characters - Cain, and a witch - Tam. I loved the sexual tension and constant battle of wills between these two. The chemistry between them was always sizzling hot, though I personally would have liked to see a little more steam. Maybe I just have a smutty little mind - I'm okay with that:). I also enjoyed the character arc with Cain - will he allow himself to love and be loved or not? If so, what does that mean for him? For his dimension? Does it change who he is? Oh, the agony of being a hotter than hot, bad-ass demon!
Another reviewer commented that she didn't feel the stakes were high enough and I have to agree. I didn't completely buy into the severity of the threat caused by Jack's actions. I also would have loved to see the scenes at the end between Tam and Jack drawn out a bit more to amp up my anxiety level. The final decisions between Cain and Tam felt a little rushed. Ultimately, the ending was satisfying but it felt a bit anti-climactic after all the build-up throughout the story.
Finally, I was glad to see Fr. Hadrian again, even though I thought he was an absolute idiot in this book. I can't wait to see what happens with him in the future. I think the next book focuses on his story. I hope it's as juicy as all the other books in the series!
October 13, 2021
I set my eyes on Cain the moment I read The Catalyst, so I knew I would have loved this book! Cain and Tam are such a perfect match that it’s practically impossible not to enjoy reading about them. Their relationship is rich of many intense moments and funny ones, but what’s really unique is watching them getting closer thanks to that deep sense of solitude the both of them experienced through all their lives—and we’re talking about a very long time. In Tam’s case, she’s so desperate and feels so alone that she’s ready to face death to finally put an end to her solitary life/eternity. It takes great courage and if you put yourself in her shoes, you can only be touched in seeing how hard the absence of a mate is.
Usually you dislike at least one or two characters in a book, so imagine in a series. Yet, in this one it’s hard not to be intrigued by everyone and almost impossible not to like every single couple. I guess you can probably be upset with the villains. Well, actually you might cheer someone in the dark path . . . See? There’s no way out. And the most amazing thing is that it doesn’t matter if you previously read about them or not, you will fall for them anyway.
Father Adrian, I’m so waiting for you next . . .
I received a free copy of this book from the Author for an honest review. This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review—originally posted on Darkest Sins.
Usually you dislike at least one or two characters in a book, so imagine in a series. Yet, in this one it’s hard not to be intrigued by everyone and almost impossible not to like every single couple. I guess you can probably be upset with the villains. Well, actually you might cheer someone in the dark path . . . See? There’s no way out. And the most amazing thing is that it doesn’t matter if you previously read about them or not, you will fall for them anyway.
Father Adrian, I’m so waiting for you next . . .
I received a free copy of this book from the Author for an honest review. This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review—originally posted on Darkest Sins.
September 7, 2012
Life Cycle ( Preternaturals #4) by Zoe Winters
I really enjoyed Life Cycle, by Zoe Winters her writing is good, the story is well written, easy to read and I found I couldn’t put the book down till I reached the end. The character descriptions were done great and you get to know the main characters quite well and of course cheer for them.
We meet Tam who is a Witch and a cycler (which mean she lives her life over and over like eternal life) but when each life ends she is born again around the age of 12. The great part is she remembers all her past lives. Jack who is evil is out to kill her and steal all her powers. The only way she can think to survive the horrible death that Jack has in mind for her is to die permanently ….. She needs a plan. In walks Cain, he is a tall sexy Demon God who is very powerful. She knows Cain could kill her for good and Tam feels she has no other choice but to request this of him.
Cain has other ideas for Tam, this story is good, I couldn’t put it down till I reached the end. It’s full of suspense, sexual tension and the chemistry between Tam and Cain is fantastic.
This story is great, I have to admit I haven’t read the first three books in this series but after reading Life Cycle I am adding all of Zoe Winters book to my to be read list.
I have rated Life Cycle a 4 star rating and would recommend it to any of my friends and followers who enjoy the adult Paranormal Genre.
I really enjoyed Life Cycle, by Zoe Winters her writing is good, the story is well written, easy to read and I found I couldn’t put the book down till I reached the end. The character descriptions were done great and you get to know the main characters quite well and of course cheer for them.
We meet Tam who is a Witch and a cycler (which mean she lives her life over and over like eternal life) but when each life ends she is born again around the age of 12. The great part is she remembers all her past lives. Jack who is evil is out to kill her and steal all her powers. The only way she can think to survive the horrible death that Jack has in mind for her is to die permanently ….. She needs a plan. In walks Cain, he is a tall sexy Demon God who is very powerful. She knows Cain could kill her for good and Tam feels she has no other choice but to request this of him.
Cain has other ideas for Tam, this story is good, I couldn’t put it down till I reached the end. It’s full of suspense, sexual tension and the chemistry between Tam and Cain is fantastic.
This story is great, I have to admit I haven’t read the first three books in this series but after reading Life Cycle I am adding all of Zoe Winters book to my to be read list.
I have rated Life Cycle a 4 star rating and would recommend it to any of my friends and followers who enjoy the adult Paranormal Genre.
September 26, 2013
One thing I like about this series (one of many, might I add) is that the heroes and heroines aren't always good guys. Frankly, Cain isn't in charge of the demon realm because he's full of sunshine and kittens. He's tough. He sets rules for his demons and he expects them to follow them. And if they don't? He does what he needs to do to contain them.
Add the fact that he's an incubus and has to feed through sex -- usually killing his partner -- and you have a guy who you might not want to bring home to meet the parents. Except... his brand of lethal is exactly what Tam needs. She'd strong in her own right. She's seen things in her long existence that most people never will. She's Cain's perfect match and watching both of them come to grips with this is highly entertaining.
One thing that I've always adored with series books is that we get a chance to go back and see what some of the previous characters have been getting into since their stories. Or, as is the case here, we get to see those characters through the eyes of another. Not going to lie, Cain doesn't like most everyone and that dislike tempers the way he sees them. Which is fun! Because characters we got to know as noble (or ruthless or... whatever) are seen as weak or feral from Cain's point of view.
I love that!
Fun, dark, a little bloody, and full of sass and sexy times. *thumbs up all around*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Add the fact that he's an incubus and has to feed through sex -- usually killing his partner -- and you have a guy who you might not want to bring home to meet the parents. Except... his brand of lethal is exactly what Tam needs. She'd strong in her own right. She's seen things in her long existence that most people never will. She's Cain's perfect match and watching both of them come to grips with this is highly entertaining.
One thing that I've always adored with series books is that we get a chance to go back and see what some of the previous characters have been getting into since their stories. Or, as is the case here, we get to see those characters through the eyes of another. Not going to lie, Cain doesn't like most everyone and that dislike tempers the way he sees them. Which is fun! Because characters we got to know as noble (or ruthless or... whatever) are seen as weak or feral from Cain's point of view.
I love that!
Fun, dark, a little bloody, and full of sass and sexy times. *thumbs up all around*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 15, 2012
Oh I have been waiting for Cain's story. A sexy incubus with a bad attitude, can kick some ass and is always pissing people off. That is so the kinda man I want to read about. And he was as yummy as I imagined!!
Cain and Tam have that I hate you but I want to rip your clothes off kinda relationship. They fight and press each others button but they still want to get one another naked. When Tam's past comes knocking on her door, Cain comes in to protect her. And this is where the fun begins.
I don't want to sit here and lay out the whole book. And that is what will happen if I try to just give you a piece of the puzzle. So I won't do it. But this book was amazing! We get to see a lot of the characters from the past books which include the sorcerer Dayne, cat therian Greta, the human Charlee, the Vampire King Anthony, the werewolf Cole, the succubus Jane, the incubus Luc and the witch but is kinda ghostly Anna. See how many awesome paranormals this series has to offer you.
Life Cycle is so far my favorite in the series. Cain and Tam sure know how to heat up the pages. Her wanting death by orgasm's and him wanting her to beg him to keep her just to mess with her mind, turns out a lot different then they ever expected. If you haven't checked out these books yet then you are missing out! I love them.
September 17, 2015
My favourite in the series so far!
December 10, 2023
4.5 stars
This is a great story. I wasn't sure what I would think. I wasn't a fan of Cain going into this book. I liked the premise, he is "the Cain", as in his brother Abel, who we met in book two as Luc. Cain is the very first succubus and their leader. In book two we also met Tamara as the best friend of the heroine Anna. All we know about Tamara is that she is a witch. In this book, we learn that Tamara is much more than your standard witch.
Tamara is a "cycler". She and her coven of witches performed a ritual to become immortal. When their current life ends, they are "reborn" into a twelve-year-old body with all their memories intact. They only way for her to truly die is to be killed by another cycler or a really old magic user. When her old coven leader and former lover has gone power hungry and is killing all the other cyclers and coming after her. She goes to Cain hoping that he can drain her completely so that she can die permanently this time.
Cain has been charged by the other of the other preternaturals to keep Tamara safe, because if Jack finds her and absorbs her power, he could be unstoppable.
I really liked the aspect of the conflict between Jack and the rest. I also liked the aspect of how everyone works together. We get to go back to spend time with many of the previous characters. Really on Z and Fiona are missing. I really wish we had gotten more on this and less on Tamara and Cain. I just think the conflict was such a great story, I was sad when we went back to the relationship building.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. The sex is very understated compared to most PNR series. The sex scenes are not done in great detail. However, the characters are great and I enjoy the world that is built around them. If you haven't tried this series yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. I can't wait to see where the author takes us on the next book.
This is a great story. I wasn't sure what I would think. I wasn't a fan of Cain going into this book. I liked the premise, he is "the Cain", as in his brother Abel, who we met in book two as Luc. Cain is the very first succubus and their leader. In book two we also met Tamara as the best friend of the heroine Anna. All we know about Tamara is that she is a witch. In this book, we learn that Tamara is much more than your standard witch.
Tamara is a "cycler". She and her coven of witches performed a ritual to become immortal. When their current life ends, they are "reborn" into a twelve-year-old body with all their memories intact. They only way for her to truly die is to be killed by another cycler or a really old magic user. When her old coven leader and former lover has gone power hungry and is killing all the other cyclers and coming after her. She goes to Cain hoping that he can drain her completely so that she can die permanently this time.
Cain has been charged by the other of the other preternaturals to keep Tamara safe, because if Jack finds her and absorbs her power, he could be unstoppable.
I really liked the aspect of the conflict between Jack and the rest. I also liked the aspect of how everyone works together. We get to go back to spend time with many of the previous characters. Really on Z and Fiona are missing. I really wish we had gotten more on this and less on Tamara and Cain. I just think the conflict was such a great story, I was sad when we went back to the relationship building.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. The sex is very understated compared to most PNR series. The sex scenes are not done in great detail. However, the characters are great and I enjoy the world that is built around them. If you haven't tried this series yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. I can't wait to see where the author takes us on the next book.
July 30, 2021
Love this book! I was not a fan of Cain throughout the first books in the series, he seemed irredeemable but when Tam, who he feels was a thorn in his side is in trouble, he finds out that there is hope for him after all and can be more to his existence, not that he didn’t try to tame that down and ignore it for forever. The group of Preternaturals have to band together again for the good of them all to stop a sorcerer who has gone off the deep end and is a threat to all walks of life.
October 20, 2022
1st reading. Kinda sucks that the one demon who should remain free and unmated gets paired off, but at least it made sense. Oh, and Jack the Ripper? *Snort*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2012
Life Cycle was a fantastic story, a paranormal story that totally fit my exigencies: actions from page one until the very end, supernatural creatures in all kind to satisfy any paranormal romance lovers, a sexy and torn demon (incubi) king willing to do almost everything to satisfy his lust toward the main female character and a most of a bad-ass chick willing to do everything to have what she wants and needs.
Tam has one last request: she wants the demon king Cain to end her life in total pleasure of course, because Cain is an Incubi. He takes the life of other being while having sex and pleasure with them.
Tam's hide from her ex, who murdered every one from their circle to gain powers and immortality and Tam, is the next and last one of them. If Cain kills her before Jack finds her, he will never become the supreme being he think he can be.
Life Cycle was my favorite of all the Preternatural, I read (so far). I liked Tam's personality and the fact that she remains herself the whole time. She knows what she wants and will do everything to get it. She's tired of her repeating life and I totally understand her! How can someone remain sane after all these years?
Anyway, if you are a fan of Zoe Winters and her Preternaturals series, you will also read about some of your ''old'' characters from book 1-2-3. I love the fact that they are all connected in a way. In this story, they all fight against the same evil and ''try'' to put aside their difference.
Cain is the yummy kind of (also) bas-ass demon; he's supposed to be super mean and the worst of his kind. Actually, he is, but with Tam, everything turns upside down and nothing goes as he predicted.
I liked the flashback where the author explain a little bit why and how Jack and Tam have acquired their powers, but I would have like to learn a little bit more about Jack.
I didn't read all the Preternaturals books, so maybe it was explained earlier or even later!?!
Life Cycle, book 4 of the Preternaturals series was a win/win for me, I enjoyed my reading, the plot was interesting (as always) and everything seems to fit. I recommend this book to every Zoe Winters and Preternaturals fans, PNR lovers and if your heart swell for demon and witch, this one should be on your TBR pile!
October 18, 2012
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Life Cycle is about Tamara, who is a Cyclist. What this means is that when she dies she always comes back as a twelve year old. After two thousand years, her former lover is tracking the entire cyclist and he is leaving her for last. If anyone is going to kill Tamara, it is going to be Cain. During a council meeting Cain agrees to keep Tamara alive. Is he going to kill her, protect her, or does he have a totally different agenda in mind.
I won this book from Goodreads first reads and I am sooooo glad I did. O loved this book!!! It had me biting my finger nails at some parts and others had me laughing so hard that it hurt. There were also a few that I shed a couple of tears. I don’t think there was one thing I didn’t like about this book. I finished this around one thirty and when I went to sleep, I dreamed about it. Has that ever happened to anyone else? I could not get it out of my head. This book alternates between Tamara and Cain, as well as someone else I can’t tell you about. It would give everything away.
Tamara: I absolutely loved her. She didn’t take crap from anyone and I mean everyone. She even got through and Incubuses drawl. And let me tell you that is not easy….not that I’ve ever been in one. LOL She always knew she had power, but she was always afraid to use it. I can also see that after two thousand years she would want to die. I know I couldn’t keep dying and coming back at twelve. You would think that she would probably lose it, but she seemed sane enough. :D I on the other hand would have gone INSANE!!!
Cain: He was such a Jerk…………for little while. You could tell right off, he was smitten with Tamara, but he had too much pride to admit it. I loved all the arguments they had, that always led to more. I loved watching them fall in love with each other.
Overall, I really really recommend this book. The ending was perfect, but will keep you wanting more. :D
Life Cycle is about Tamara, who is a Cyclist. What this means is that when she dies she always comes back as a twelve year old. After two thousand years, her former lover is tracking the entire cyclist and he is leaving her for last. If anyone is going to kill Tamara, it is going to be Cain. During a council meeting Cain agrees to keep Tamara alive. Is he going to kill her, protect her, or does he have a totally different agenda in mind.
I won this book from Goodreads first reads and I am sooooo glad I did. O loved this book!!! It had me biting my finger nails at some parts and others had me laughing so hard that it hurt. There were also a few that I shed a couple of tears. I don’t think there was one thing I didn’t like about this book. I finished this around one thirty and when I went to sleep, I dreamed about it. Has that ever happened to anyone else? I could not get it out of my head. This book alternates between Tamara and Cain, as well as someone else I can’t tell you about. It would give everything away.
Tamara: I absolutely loved her. She didn’t take crap from anyone and I mean everyone. She even got through and Incubuses drawl. And let me tell you that is not easy….not that I’ve ever been in one. LOL She always knew she had power, but she was always afraid to use it. I can also see that after two thousand years she would want to die. I know I couldn’t keep dying and coming back at twelve. You would think that she would probably lose it, but she seemed sane enough. :D I on the other hand would have gone INSANE!!!
Cain: He was such a Jerk…………for little while. You could tell right off, he was smitten with Tamara, but he had too much pride to admit it. I loved all the arguments they had, that always led to more. I loved watching them fall in love with each other.
Overall, I really really recommend this book. The ending was perfect, but will keep you wanting more. :D
July 28, 2013
4.5 stars
This is a great story. I wasn't sure what I would think. I wasn't a fan of Cain going into this book. I liked the premise, he is "the Cain", as in his brother Abel, who we met in book two as Luc. Cain is the very first succubus and their leader. In book two we also met Tamara as the best friend of the heroine Anna. All we know about Tamara is that she is a witch. In this book, we learn that Tamara is much more than your standard witch.
Tamara is a "cycler". She and her coven of witches performed a ritual to become immortal. When their current life ends, they are "reborn" into a twelve-year-old body with all their memories intact. They only way for her to truly die is to be killed by another cycler or a really old magic user. When her old coven leader and former lover has gone power hungry and is killing all the other cyclers and coming after her. She goes to Cain hoping that he can drain her completely so that she can die permanently this time.
Cain has been charged by the other of the other preternaturals to keep Tamara safe, because if Jack finds her and absorbs her power, he could be unstoppable.
I really liked the aspect of the conflict between Jack and the rest. I also liked the aspect of how everyone works together. We get to go back to spend time with many of the previous characters. Really on Z and Fiona are missing. I really wish we had gotten more on this and less on Tamara and Cain. I just think the conflict was such a great story, I was sad when we went back to the relationship building.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. The sex is very understated compared to most PNR series. The sex scenes are not done in great detail. However, the characters are great and I enjoy the world that is built around them. If you haven't tried this series yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. I can't wait to see where the author takes us on the next book.
This is a great story. I wasn't sure what I would think. I wasn't a fan of Cain going into this book. I liked the premise, he is "the Cain", as in his brother Abel, who we met in book two as Luc. Cain is the very first succubus and their leader. In book two we also met Tamara as the best friend of the heroine Anna. All we know about Tamara is that she is a witch. In this book, we learn that Tamara is much more than your standard witch.
Tamara is a "cycler". She and her coven of witches performed a ritual to become immortal. When their current life ends, they are "reborn" into a twelve-year-old body with all their memories intact. They only way for her to truly die is to be killed by another cycler or a really old magic user. When her old coven leader and former lover has gone power hungry and is killing all the other cyclers and coming after her. She goes to Cain hoping that he can drain her completely so that she can die permanently this time.
Cain has been charged by the other of the other preternaturals to keep Tamara safe, because if Jack finds her and absorbs her power, he could be unstoppable.
I really liked the aspect of the conflict between Jack and the rest. I also liked the aspect of how everyone works together. We get to go back to spend time with many of the previous characters. Really on Z and Fiona are missing. I really wish we had gotten more on this and less on Tamara and Cain. I just think the conflict was such a great story, I was sad when we went back to the relationship building.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series. The sex is very understated compared to most PNR series. The sex scenes are not done in great detail. However, the characters are great and I enjoy the world that is built around them. If you haven't tried this series yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. I can't wait to see where the author takes us on the next book.
November 15, 2012
If you like paranormal romance and you haven't heard of Zoe Winters, well....you need to discover her. Like yesterday. Her paranormal characters are true to their natures rather than being forced to adhere to regular human mores and values, and I find that refreshing even when it's disturbing. Life Cycles is a continuation of her Preternaturals series, and while you can read it as a stand alone, you're just going to want to go buy the rest of them after you finish to read about many of the other characters featured as well. So while the recommended read this week is Life Cycles, I'm *really* telling you to go get this whole series of books. Because once you get pulled into this "other world", you won't want to leave.
I love Life Cycles specifically for it's exploration of the idea of immortality. What would it be like to live forever? Is anyone truly immortal? What's the true price, and are we *really* able to pay it? All of these come up in this story of a witch and a demon who are ancient beings, tired, and lonely in a way no one else could ever understand. It's heart-wrenching in spots, as all of Zoe's books are, but it is a romance after all, and the pain and agony just makes the ending that much sweeter and more deserved.
It's an awesome book, and a really fabulous series. Even if you don't read paranormals, I'd urge you to give these books a try. You'll be glad you did.
I love Life Cycles specifically for it's exploration of the idea of immortality. What would it be like to live forever? Is anyone truly immortal? What's the true price, and are we *really* able to pay it? All of these come up in this story of a witch and a demon who are ancient beings, tired, and lonely in a way no one else could ever understand. It's heart-wrenching in spots, as all of Zoe's books are, but it is a romance after all, and the pain and agony just makes the ending that much sweeter and more deserved.
It's an awesome book, and a really fabulous series. Even if you don't read paranormals, I'd urge you to give these books a try. You'll be glad you did.
September 16, 2012
Life Cycle is book 4 in Zoe Winters Preternatural series and we FINALLY get Cain’s story.
Cain is our resident leader of the Demon realm and self proclaimed “I don’t need anyone” loaner of the group. It is a fact that Cain has not made many friends, heck even his own sister-in-law doesn’t like him. But when Cain is asked to help protect Tam from a serial killer her breaks his #1 rule. Never trust a magic user. But there is something about Tam, something that disturbs Cain.
Tam is tired of living, tired of her cycling. But when faced with a serial killer that wants her power, Tam takes matters into her own hands. She can die by a madman hands who wants to take over the world, or she can ask the leader of the Demon world to killer her.
This two are great. I love that Tam is always standing up to Cain. Cain is not use to people not doing his every wish. But Tam is not everyone. She is different and challenges Cain in every way possible. Tam makes Cain feel things that scare and interest him.
This has been my favorite story so far in the Preternatural series. But I am very excited to see what Zoe has in store for us next.
Cain is our resident leader of the Demon realm and self proclaimed “I don’t need anyone” loaner of the group. It is a fact that Cain has not made many friends, heck even his own sister-in-law doesn’t like him. But when Cain is asked to help protect Tam from a serial killer her breaks his #1 rule. Never trust a magic user. But there is something about Tam, something that disturbs Cain.
Tam is tired of living, tired of her cycling. But when faced with a serial killer that wants her power, Tam takes matters into her own hands. She can die by a madman hands who wants to take over the world, or she can ask the leader of the Demon world to killer her.
This two are great. I love that Tam is always standing up to Cain. Cain is not use to people not doing his every wish. But Tam is not everyone. She is different and challenges Cain in every way possible. Tam makes Cain feel things that scare and interest him.
This has been my favorite story so far in the Preternatural series. But I am very excited to see what Zoe has in store for us next.
April 27, 2013
I love Zoe Winters and I have loved this series, but man this book just dragged for me. I felt zero connection between Cain and Tam. They bickered and fought throughout the book in the most boring of ways.
People who say you don't have to have read the other books in this series to get this one are lying. I have read all the books in the series, but it was awhile ago, so I didn't quite remember everyone and I couldn't muster up the interest to care either. Frankly, there were too many guest appearances by other characters from the preturnatural world for my taste.
Life Cycle should have focused more on Cain and Tam, especially Tam's background and history which should have been much more interesting than it was. We are told about how bad Jack is, how crazy he now is, but not showed a whole lot.
People who say you don't have to have read the other books in this series to get this one are lying. I have read all the books in the series, but it was awhile ago, so I didn't quite remember everyone and I couldn't muster up the interest to care either. Frankly, there were too many guest appearances by other characters from the preturnatural world for my taste.
Life Cycle should have focused more on Cain and Tam, especially Tam's background and history which should have been much more interesting than it was. We are told about how bad Jack is, how crazy he now is, but not showed a whole lot.
September 2, 2012
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys paranormal love stories.
I received Life Cycle as a Good reads first read. Thank you.
Life Cycle is a great story about immortality and the struggles that come from it. Many consider living forever without the aches and pains of aging to be a blessing. However it is a burden to consistently be surrounded with others you care about who inevitably leave you when they die. It is also a burden to have to hide from society because they notice you don’t age as others age. This is the burden the main character faces, and has become tired of.
To discover just how far one might go to relieve themselves of such a burden read Life Cycle.
I received Life Cycle as a Good reads first read. Thank you.
Life Cycle is a great story about immortality and the struggles that come from it. Many consider living forever without the aches and pains of aging to be a blessing. However it is a burden to consistently be surrounded with others you care about who inevitably leave you when they die. It is also a burden to have to hide from society because they notice you don’t age as others age. This is the burden the main character faces, and has become tired of.
To discover just how far one might go to relieve themselves of such a burden read Life Cycle.
August 1, 2012
The strength of the prose and storytelling in Life Cycle by Zoe Winters is only matched by the strength of the two main characters, Tamara and Cain. With equal measures of heat, humor and heart-felt romance, Winters pulls us into the world of immortal witches and demons, where a powerful witch, Tamara, is ready to give up eternity to end the hunt for her life, only to find that the one man strong enough to kill her is also the one man strong enough to give her a reason to live.
By far my favorite Zoe book yet, Life Cycles is a must read!
By far my favorite Zoe book yet, Life Cycles is a must read!
May 21, 2013
Another fun addition to the series. In this book Cain and Tam are coupled, I think they are a match made in heaven so to speak. Everything paranormal is given in this series, and a little of the past is intertwined in this book. I love the way Ms. Winters integrated a past horrific entity into this story giving it a twist you can sink your teeth into. I hope to see more in this series and get updates from more of the past character couplings. A great read for those who like all things paranormal.
October 5, 2012
I got this book free from Goodreads giveaway. It is the forth book of a series and I have not yet read the first three. It did not seem that you had to read the first 3 to understand the forth book. It was not the kind of book I usually read but I enjoyed it. I was an easy read and I liked the strong will of Cain and Tam. Zoe Winters has a wonderful imagination!
May 1, 2015
My least favorite of the series.
It was decent, but part of what I love is the lightheartedness, and while that was there I felt this book was much heavier than the others so it took me a bit more to get through.
Over all a good, enjoyable read. However, coming from a series I am judging it on the other books.
It was decent, but part of what I love is the lightheartedness, and while that was there I felt this book was much heavier than the others so it took me a bit more to get through.
Over all a good, enjoyable read. However, coming from a series I am judging it on the other books.
August 27, 2012
I absolutely loved Life Cycle just as i have loved every story in the preterverse. Zoe Winters has done it again! Ive been waiting forever for Cain's story and i was so excited when it was released. I loved the epic battle at the end where all the preters got together to kick ass!
September 3, 2012
I really enjoyed Cain's character in this book, but when the ending came, I never felt like the stakes were very high. Still an enjoyable read--more for the character development than an intense plot.
August 18, 2012
Another solid installment in Zoe's series. I really am liking the later books even more because books 3 and 4 have all of the characters you have seen in the previous books. It makes the story seem richer and if you have favorite characters from past books, you get to see them again.
October 13, 2013
I've enjoyed Zoe Winters' books before but I couldn't get into this one. I felt like I spent too much time trying to figure out what was going on and didn't really feel the romance. But Winters is a good writer so maybe it just wasn't my cuppa. I'll still check out future books.
August 20, 2012
looks and sounds awesome...
August 19, 2022
Excellent book!!!
January 16, 2013
This was fun.
June 8, 2013
I liked the book, but the sex scenes didnt feel very connected a lot of the possible connection and fire was left out and it felt glossed over like the author couldn't be bothered dealing with it.
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