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The Dream-Walker War #1
Blood Rage
For eighty years since the Great Awakening, humans and non-humans have lived in relative peace together. That peace is threatened when three bodies turn up less than a mile from the Bureau of Non-Human Affairs in Tampa bearing the signature of vampires who once terrorized Europe.
The Bureau’s chief liaison to the vampires, Dara MacKechnie, learns that the Tampa victims are not alone when her ex-lover, and head of the vampire’s Great Council, Anthony Caldwell comes calling.
The pair discover the lie that separated them two centuries ago only banked their passion, not extinguished it. Dara must decide whether she can trust Anthony with her heart a second time as they try to head off the war that threatens all they hold dear.
The Bureau’s chief liaison to the vampires, Dara MacKechnie, learns that the Tampa victims are not alone when her ex-lover, and head of the vampire’s Great Council, Anthony Caldwell comes calling.
The pair discover the lie that separated them two centuries ago only banked their passion, not extinguished it. Dara must decide whether she can trust Anthony with her heart a second time as they try to head off the war that threatens all they hold dear.
356 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2012
575 people want to read
About the author
Tory Michaels
4 books79 followersOriginally from the Sacramento Valley, Tory packed up and moved all the way to Southwest Florida in 2004 with her husband (a Florida native) under the premise that ‘hurricanes almost never hit that part of the state.’ That year, 4 blasted the area. 4 more came the following year, and her husband blames her for bringing the hurricanes. She now resides in Jacksonville and is relieved that, thus far, no more hurricanes have followed her around.
She began writing in kindergarten when a turnip wished to be human and, other than a hiatus shortly after getting married, has never stopped. Her love of vampires began somewhere in junior high, and combining the two loves didn’t take long. She loves music, considers herself a ‘book slut’ whose reading habits would break her family financially if given free reign, and is (usually) delighted to be a mommy of twin Shrimpettes and a Shrimp.
Represented by Marisa Corvisiero of Corvisiero Literary Agency.
She began writing in kindergarten when a turnip wished to be human and, other than a hiatus shortly after getting married, has never stopped. Her love of vampires began somewhere in junior high, and combining the two loves didn’t take long. She loves music, considers herself a ‘book slut’ whose reading habits would break her family financially if given free reign, and is (usually) delighted to be a mommy of twin Shrimpettes and a Shrimp.
Represented by Marisa Corvisiero of Corvisiero Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 22, 2012
I hesitate to compare it to anything but if my arm was twisted I’d lean toward comparing it to Underworld.
The lead character Dara even has that “I’ll kick your butt and take names later” type attitude. She never backs down from a challenge which I found pleasantly different to the more vulnerable heroines I’ve been reading lately. Anthony is the perfect compliment to Dara and even as they struggled against each other it was easy to see how well suited they were to each other. That was another thing that I truly enjoyed, the struggle between the two really built up the tension and passion leading to a more satisfactory read than an instant love.
Blood Rage is a sizzling hot must read for vampire/paranormal fans out there. I promise you won’t regret it.
The lead character Dara even has that “I’ll kick your butt and take names later” type attitude. She never backs down from a challenge which I found pleasantly different to the more vulnerable heroines I’ve been reading lately. Anthony is the perfect compliment to Dara and even as they struggled against each other it was easy to see how well suited they were to each other. That was another thing that I truly enjoyed, the struggle between the two really built up the tension and passion leading to a more satisfactory read than an instant love.
Blood Rage is a sizzling hot must read for vampire/paranormal fans out there. I promise you won’t regret it.
April 28, 2012
This book blew me away! I am in love with the characters that inhabit this world and the world building is wonderful. I like how we get blurbs of information about the history and such at the beginning of each chapter. This book is unlike any vampire book I have previously read. I can't really say too much about the plot because I don't want to give it away. You really need to read this book your self.
The story is a richly detailed fantasy about what could happen if humans lived side by side with paranormal beings. In this book we have not only vampires but shapeshifters and witches too. It is a little convoluted but in a good way, if that makes sense. Things are most definitely not what they seem. There is a major murder case to be solved and the hero and heroine are thrown together against the heroine's will. She has a bad history with him, she thinks. Ahh, one of the many things I can't elaborate on. It is all so deliciously twisted and there is so much mystery and intrigue that I flew through the pages, dying to find out what happens.
The author captures emotional nuances that make all the difference. I also loved the teases about the past and the way we get to find out what has happened with these characters before the story begins. It is so deliciously tantalizing.
I am going to tell you, it is not a clean ending. We get a HEA for the H/H but there is much left unsolved. That is a good thing because this series promises to be one of the most enthralling I have started in a long time.
The story is a richly detailed fantasy about what could happen if humans lived side by side with paranormal beings. In this book we have not only vampires but shapeshifters and witches too. It is a little convoluted but in a good way, if that makes sense. Things are most definitely not what they seem. There is a major murder case to be solved and the hero and heroine are thrown together against the heroine's will. She has a bad history with him, she thinks. Ahh, one of the many things I can't elaborate on. It is all so deliciously twisted and there is so much mystery and intrigue that I flew through the pages, dying to find out what happens.
The author captures emotional nuances that make all the difference. I also loved the teases about the past and the way we get to find out what has happened with these characters before the story begins. It is so deliciously tantalizing.
I am going to tell you, it is not a clean ending. We get a HEA for the H/H but there is much left unsolved. That is a good thing because this series promises to be one of the most enthralling I have started in a long time.
July 30, 2012
Death comes calling for everyone, even vampires. But in the case of Blood Rage, death is a group calling themselves the Aristocats and they are secretly and quickly erasing the vampires off the face of the earth.
Dara (Athdara) Genevieve is a vampire but has been instrumental to the Great Awakening where all the different species of non-humans came out to the humans. Her efforts have led her to a job on the Bureau, where she helps keep the peace between all the different species. Dara’s life is complicated. Her past was filled with horrors, yet there still was love. She loved her family and gave her life to protect them and loved only one man and gave him up because she wasn’t good enough for him.
Anthony Caldwell is a part of the Inner Circle and leadership of the Vampire community. He was in love with Dara when she was human but it was their time together as vampires that showed him what true love was. Now he has to get back on Dara’s good side after telling her some lies and enlist her help in stopping a war.
Blood Rage is a heart-pounding mystery filled with devious characters with secrets. It’s a mysterious romance story filled with passion and revenge. The reader never knows just what is lurking in the hearts of the different characters and whether they are friends or foes. I loved the way that Tory Michaels wove the past and present together. Dara and Anthony had their share of misunderstandings but through it all, their love for each other was evident as they set out to protect the world from this secret group whose aim was to start a war. I’m sure that we will see more tantilizing stories from this talented author and superb storyline. I can’t wait to see Chris and Jordan go at it!
If you love stories that will keep you guessing and love characters who are multi-dimensional and well crafted, you are going to love, Blood Rage. I really recommend that you read it today!
Dara (Athdara) Genevieve is a vampire but has been instrumental to the Great Awakening where all the different species of non-humans came out to the humans. Her efforts have led her to a job on the Bureau, where she helps keep the peace between all the different species. Dara’s life is complicated. Her past was filled with horrors, yet there still was love. She loved her family and gave her life to protect them and loved only one man and gave him up because she wasn’t good enough for him.
Anthony Caldwell is a part of the Inner Circle and leadership of the Vampire community. He was in love with Dara when she was human but it was their time together as vampires that showed him what true love was. Now he has to get back on Dara’s good side after telling her some lies and enlist her help in stopping a war.
Blood Rage is a heart-pounding mystery filled with devious characters with secrets. It’s a mysterious romance story filled with passion and revenge. The reader never knows just what is lurking in the hearts of the different characters and whether they are friends or foes. I loved the way that Tory Michaels wove the past and present together. Dara and Anthony had their share of misunderstandings but through it all, their love for each other was evident as they set out to protect the world from this secret group whose aim was to start a war. I’m sure that we will see more tantilizing stories from this talented author and superb storyline. I can’t wait to see Chris and Jordan go at it!
If you love stories that will keep you guessing and love characters who are multi-dimensional and well crafted, you are going to love, Blood Rage. I really recommend that you read it today!
February 18, 2012
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com for readers
BRIEF SUMMARY
Since the great awakening, vampires and humans have lived together. With the peace created amongst them, that peace is disrupted when bodies turns up. These bodies show signs of vampires who once terrorized Europe. Now Dara, the chief of The Bureau and Anthony, the head of the vampire council who were I involved centuries ago must now work together.
THOUGHTS
As this was the authors first novel, I found it different and engaging. I was definitely taken to another world in which the author sets the foundation for (The Dream- The Walker) series. Instead of just the usual fangs and your typical vampire settings, we were given telepathy, telekinesis, aged old vampires, vampire council, the bureau, and humans living amongst non-human. A mix of formulas that I believed presented me with an interesting read. Also, each chapter starts with a notations referring to that chapter and it was telling.
Dara and Anthony complemented each other. In the beginning, they had this tug and pull chemistry and relationship, as Dara still despised Anthony for the past. I enjoyed what the author did by periodically going from past to present showing their connection and their history together which was nearly two centuries ago. As brief as it was, I enjoyed their actual meeting in 1808. There is nothing better than reading the characteristics of vampires but also their surroundings, which completes the atmosphere of the story that pulls you in. I also enjoyed the other characters, especially Chris, Dara's friend. I enjoyed her charisma.
With an engaging climax and plot I enjoyed it. There were a few up and down peaks throughout the read, but the story still had me going.
Length: 294 pgs.
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Intimacy Level: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
BRIEF SUMMARY
Since the great awakening, vampires and humans have lived together. With the peace created amongst them, that peace is disrupted when bodies turns up. These bodies show signs of vampires who once terrorized Europe. Now Dara, the chief of The Bureau and Anthony, the head of the vampire council who were I involved centuries ago must now work together.
THOUGHTS
As this was the authors first novel, I found it different and engaging. I was definitely taken to another world in which the author sets the foundation for (The Dream- The Walker) series. Instead of just the usual fangs and your typical vampire settings, we were given telepathy, telekinesis, aged old vampires, vampire council, the bureau, and humans living amongst non-human. A mix of formulas that I believed presented me with an interesting read. Also, each chapter starts with a notations referring to that chapter and it was telling.
Dara and Anthony complemented each other. In the beginning, they had this tug and pull chemistry and relationship, as Dara still despised Anthony for the past. I enjoyed what the author did by periodically going from past to present showing their connection and their history together which was nearly two centuries ago. As brief as it was, I enjoyed their actual meeting in 1808. There is nothing better than reading the characteristics of vampires but also their surroundings, which completes the atmosphere of the story that pulls you in. I also enjoyed the other characters, especially Chris, Dara's friend. I enjoyed her charisma.
With an engaging climax and plot I enjoyed it. There were a few up and down peaks throughout the read, but the story still had me going.
Length: 294 pgs.
Storyline: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Intimacy Level: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
September 17, 2012
Another exciting, hottie containing, adventurous paranormal read for those paranormal lovers (like me) to really get into. A great story of love lost and found again after centuries of secrets, lies and deceit; fate is without a doubt involved with these two characters and I truly approve of the match! I’m thinking underworld with a twist here. There’s more than strength and speed for these characters. They are all amazingly powerful and are still developing with age. That’s something with vampires I’ve not heard of until this book. Anyone that enjoys a great story will have a great time reading Blood Rage!
Dara has lived through a very hard and traumatic event and is left responsible for the life of her niece, who is also the last in the family line. She’s currently the chief liaison to the vampires. A face many know has helped keep peace with the paranormals. But things are about to go a bit wacky both with Dara’s personal life and the peace that has existed for years. Now her past as come back to haunt her in the form of Anthony Caldwell, her ex-lover and the head of the vampire counsel.
Anthony Caldwell is one sexy dominant vampire that’s looking to right some wrongs that had long ago caused the only woman he loves to run away from him. Now his main concern is if he can get her to trust him again and regain her heart for all time.
Dara and Anthony are the perfect balance to each other. They complement one another in a way that brings out the best in them and they both know it, but will it last? I’m hoping Tory gives us more insight in the next book of the series. I find myself more curious due to the history of Dara and Anthony :)
Dara has lived through a very hard and traumatic event and is left responsible for the life of her niece, who is also the last in the family line. She’s currently the chief liaison to the vampires. A face many know has helped keep peace with the paranormals. But things are about to go a bit wacky both with Dara’s personal life and the peace that has existed for years. Now her past as come back to haunt her in the form of Anthony Caldwell, her ex-lover and the head of the vampire counsel.
Anthony Caldwell is one sexy dominant vampire that’s looking to right some wrongs that had long ago caused the only woman he loves to run away from him. Now his main concern is if he can get her to trust him again and regain her heart for all time.
Dara and Anthony are the perfect balance to each other. They complement one another in a way that brings out the best in them and they both know it, but will it last? I’m hoping Tory gives us more insight in the next book of the series. I find myself more curious due to the history of Dara and Anthony :)
February 8, 2013
****Won from Goodreads giveaway****
I took this book with me to work to read on my breaks, which was a mistake. This book was very engaging and I didn't want to stop reading it to go back to work. I believe if I had been reading it at home I would have read it through in a day.
Things I liked:
I really like the little blurbs at the beginning of every chapter that give you a look into the world that Michaels built in this story. I thought it was clever and entertaining way to explain and get information without it bogging down or detracting from the flow of the story.
I really like a lot of the characters in this book and look forward to reading more about them. I think there are some really interesting characters that we were introduced to and I think they will become even more interesting the further into the story we get as they evolve and get more involved in the story.
What I didn't like:
It's a small annoyance and easily fixed but in my copy I lost track of how many times doors "swooshed" open. If the doors would have swooshed open a lot I wouldn't have noticed but since every time the word swooshed was used it was typed "swooshed" it really stood out and I found myself not paying attention to the story and being irritated and wondering why it was typed that way.
I know this is a continueing series but I didn't like the ending. It just ended wierdly to me. the HEA wasn't a problem but the murder aspect seemed to be left as an afterthought.
Overall, I am excited about reading more from this author and would recommend this book to readers who like this genre.
I took this book with me to work to read on my breaks, which was a mistake. This book was very engaging and I didn't want to stop reading it to go back to work. I believe if I had been reading it at home I would have read it through in a day.
Things I liked:
I really like the little blurbs at the beginning of every chapter that give you a look into the world that Michaels built in this story. I thought it was clever and entertaining way to explain and get information without it bogging down or detracting from the flow of the story.
I really like a lot of the characters in this book and look forward to reading more about them. I think there are some really interesting characters that we were introduced to and I think they will become even more interesting the further into the story we get as they evolve and get more involved in the story.
What I didn't like:
It's a small annoyance and easily fixed but in my copy I lost track of how many times doors "swooshed" open. If the doors would have swooshed open a lot I wouldn't have noticed but since every time the word swooshed was used it was typed "swooshed" it really stood out and I found myself not paying attention to the story and being irritated and wondering why it was typed that way.
I know this is a continueing series but I didn't like the ending. It just ended wierdly to me. the HEA wasn't a problem but the murder aspect seemed to be left as an afterthought.
Overall, I am excited about reading more from this author and would recommend this book to readers who like this genre.
March 19, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Blood Rage. The vampire world she created drew me in for an engaging ride that I couldn't put down. Her characters, Anthony and Athdara (I love that name!)felt real. Athdara's physical and emotional scars and Anthony's stuffiness made them human and readable. No one likes perfect heroes and heroines, especially me.
Once a weak woman, now an alpha female, Athdara doesn't back down from Anthony's alpha male. Tory Michaels take her heroine to edge and doesn't back down when she has to do what she never thought she would. Who wouldn't love a character like that!
One of the high points of the novel was the vampire world. Set in the present day, I loved the references to 9/11 and other news events. Humans, non-humans and mages live side-by-side, cohabitating happy while a secret war brews beneath the surface. The Aristocrats, a secret vampire society are killing human and vampire. Anthony and Athdara have to discover who are the leaders behind The Aristocrats before the human authorities find out and rekindle a love affair that has stretched over two hundred years.
Another high point, the sex. Just a suggestive hint of BDSM was enough to titillate and let your imagination roam.
After a few ups and down in their relationship there's a heartfelt HEA and an ending that lets the reader know, the sequel is in the works.
A great read from a great new author.
Once a weak woman, now an alpha female, Athdara doesn't back down from Anthony's alpha male. Tory Michaels take her heroine to edge and doesn't back down when she has to do what she never thought she would. Who wouldn't love a character like that!
One of the high points of the novel was the vampire world. Set in the present day, I loved the references to 9/11 and other news events. Humans, non-humans and mages live side-by-side, cohabitating happy while a secret war brews beneath the surface. The Aristocrats, a secret vampire society are killing human and vampire. Anthony and Athdara have to discover who are the leaders behind The Aristocrats before the human authorities find out and rekindle a love affair that has stretched over two hundred years.
Another high point, the sex. Just a suggestive hint of BDSM was enough to titillate and let your imagination roam.
After a few ups and down in their relationship there's a heartfelt HEA and an ending that lets the reader know, the sequel is in the works.
A great read from a great new author.
March 17, 2012
I really give this book 2.5 stars because I liked the second half of the book but the ending left me confused. The first half's pacing was off as the author revealed every mystery and didn't leave anything to the imagination. I have never read anything quite like it, and I'm left scratching my head thinking what just happened. When the action finally started it went very well especially compaired to the first half of the book. Just when you think its going to go well and continue on thinking the author finally got the hang of it when it aprubtly ended with no real conclusion to the murders but did include a very large happy ever after ending. WTH???? This story could have been great. I really liked the author's world and I finally connected to the characters, but the ending, with not much of a conclusion, left me hanging and not in a cliff-hanger kind of way. The pacing was disjointed at best and that's a shame because I really like Tory Michaels world. If the author could rethink how she can create a mystery and keep people wanting more this could be a really good series. I will take a chance again on Tory's writing as I can see she can be really good. So was it enough to keep me off forever? No, I will try this author again as I hope she will get better with time and I think she will.
February 9, 2012
Read this and loved it. For any fan of Sherrilyn kenyon or the Trueblood series, this novel is a great debut from a very talented author and a MUST READ!!!. The world Tory takes the reader into, is one full of humans, nonhumans, mages and shapeshifters. Dara and Anthony (the hero and heroine) have a love/hate relationship. Anthony is a very dominating aristocratic english Duke and leader of the council and Circle. Dara is his ex mistress, who, over the two hundred years that they have known each other has found enough balls to stand up to him.
They come together to investigate murders which are apparently being caused by the "Aristocrats" and even end up roping in the ex-leader of them Jordan. I wont give too much of the plot away, nevertheless, it is a total page turner. Its written in a way that the reader "feels" like they have to know what is going to happen next.
What I ABSOLUTELY LOVED about this book, was the little bits of information at the beginning of each chapter. Totally unique, and had me laughing out loud several times. I have laughed, smiled, gone OMG at certain parts and open mouthed at others.
Seriously, this book has to be read. Its "Bloody" Marvellous. Can't wait for the next installment!
They come together to investigate murders which are apparently being caused by the "Aristocrats" and even end up roping in the ex-leader of them Jordan. I wont give too much of the plot away, nevertheless, it is a total page turner. Its written in a way that the reader "feels" like they have to know what is going to happen next.
What I ABSOLUTELY LOVED about this book, was the little bits of information at the beginning of each chapter. Totally unique, and had me laughing out loud several times. I have laughed, smiled, gone OMG at certain parts and open mouthed at others.
Seriously, this book has to be read. Its "Bloody" Marvellous. Can't wait for the next installment!
April 8, 2012
Contest Here: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
To say that I’ve read every kind of vampire book out there is an understatement but the author did a remarkable job in making this book refreshing. Everything about the plot stood out. The world that we are drawn into has an old worldly feel to it but also carries a taste of modern and edgy. I hesitate to compare it to anything but if my arm was twisted I’d lean toward comparing it to Underworld.
The lead character Dara even has that “I’ll kick your butt and take names later” type attitude. She never backs down from a challenge which I found pleasantly different to the more vulnerable heroines I’ve been reading lately. Anthony is the perfect compliment to Dara and even as they struggled against each other it was easy to see how well suited they were to each other. That was another thing that I truly enjoyed, the struggle between the two really built up the tension and passion leading to a more satisfactory read than an instant love.
Blood Rage is a sizzling hot must read for vampire/paranormal fans out there. I promise you won’t regret it.
To say that I’ve read every kind of vampire book out there is an understatement but the author did a remarkable job in making this book refreshing. Everything about the plot stood out. The world that we are drawn into has an old worldly feel to it but also carries a taste of modern and edgy. I hesitate to compare it to anything but if my arm was twisted I’d lean toward comparing it to Underworld.
The lead character Dara even has that “I’ll kick your butt and take names later” type attitude. She never backs down from a challenge which I found pleasantly different to the more vulnerable heroines I’ve been reading lately. Anthony is the perfect compliment to Dara and even as they struggled against each other it was easy to see how well suited they were to each other. That was another thing that I truly enjoyed, the struggle between the two really built up the tension and passion leading to a more satisfactory read than an instant love.
Blood Rage is a sizzling hot must read for vampire/paranormal fans out there. I promise you won’t regret it.
March 17, 2012
This is such a fun and interesting take on vampires! One thing I love about Blood Rage is the snappy dialogue.I loved the interaction between Dara and Anthony. The author really has a knack for bringing her characters to life and making sure they have their own unique voice. I also loved the tie in with the Regency time. What a fun twist. I recommend this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series!
May 1, 2012
Sexy and adventure, what could be better? I really enjoyed the world Tory Michaels created. This was a big hit. I couldn't put it down!
January 7, 2021
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Publication Date: February 7, 2012
Available on Amazon, Bookstrand, All Romance E-books, and Evernight Publishing
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Tory Michaels has created an amazing world and put some interesting twists on vampires as we know them, as well as other non-human species. I very much enjoyed having the opportunity to read this story and am personally looking forward to the release of book 2 in March.
Here's the blurb:
For eighty years since the Great Awakening, humans and non-humans have lived in relative peace together. The peace is threatened when three bodies turn up less than a mile from the Bureau of Non-Human Affairs in Tampa, all bearing the signature of vampires who once terrorized Europe.
The Bureau’s chief liaison to the vampires, Dara MacKechnie, learns that the Tampa victims are not alone when her ex-lover, and head of the vampire’s Great Council, Anthony Caldwell comes calling.
The pair discovers the lie that separated them two centuries ago only banked their passion, not extinguished it. Dara must decide whether she can trust Anthony with her heart a second time as they try to head off the war that threatens all they hold dear.
I have to say that I loved the characters and the dark tone of the whole novel. Anthony and Dara together make for a wonderful couple. Anthony is sinfully delicious and alpha. Dara is strong and loyal to her family.
The author rights in a way that grabs your attention so that you can't put the story down, I finished the entire book in one day (and got absolutely nothing done mind you) I just didn't want to stop reading and I am honestly sad that the story is over simply because I wish to read more about these two characters that I enjoyed so much.
The non-humans live openly in the world and have partnered with the government in order to keep things peaceful between all races, but their is a specific, copycat group, determined to undermine everything that Dara and Michael had worked towards to maintain a peace between all species. On the verge of an all out war, and forced to face a past that devastated her, Dara and Anthony team together to put an stop to the group and end up reigniting the flame of desire between the two of them that never truly disappeared when Dara walked out on Anthony two centuries ago.
The ending, albeit a happy one that helped end the story on a lighter note than the tone of the whole novel, felt a tad rushed to me, but overall I am happy with how Anthony and Dara were able to resolve their issues and end up with their HEA. They truly are a couple that was meant to be together.
This is a must read and I am very much looking forward to more of Tory Michael's works particularly in the Dream Walker War Series.
My Rating: 4/5 Lattes
All My Best,
Kayla
Publication Date: February 7, 2012
Available on Amazon, Bookstrand, All Romance E-books, and Evernight Publishing
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Tory Michaels has created an amazing world and put some interesting twists on vampires as we know them, as well as other non-human species. I very much enjoyed having the opportunity to read this story and am personally looking forward to the release of book 2 in March.
Here's the blurb:
For eighty years since the Great Awakening, humans and non-humans have lived in relative peace together. The peace is threatened when three bodies turn up less than a mile from the Bureau of Non-Human Affairs in Tampa, all bearing the signature of vampires who once terrorized Europe.
The Bureau’s chief liaison to the vampires, Dara MacKechnie, learns that the Tampa victims are not alone when her ex-lover, and head of the vampire’s Great Council, Anthony Caldwell comes calling.
The pair discovers the lie that separated them two centuries ago only banked their passion, not extinguished it. Dara must decide whether she can trust Anthony with her heart a second time as they try to head off the war that threatens all they hold dear.
I have to say that I loved the characters and the dark tone of the whole novel. Anthony and Dara together make for a wonderful couple. Anthony is sinfully delicious and alpha. Dara is strong and loyal to her family.
The author rights in a way that grabs your attention so that you can't put the story down, I finished the entire book in one day (and got absolutely nothing done mind you) I just didn't want to stop reading and I am honestly sad that the story is over simply because I wish to read more about these two characters that I enjoyed so much.
The non-humans live openly in the world and have partnered with the government in order to keep things peaceful between all races, but their is a specific, copycat group, determined to undermine everything that Dara and Michael had worked towards to maintain a peace between all species. On the verge of an all out war, and forced to face a past that devastated her, Dara and Anthony team together to put an stop to the group and end up reigniting the flame of desire between the two of them that never truly disappeared when Dara walked out on Anthony two centuries ago.
The ending, albeit a happy one that helped end the story on a lighter note than the tone of the whole novel, felt a tad rushed to me, but overall I am happy with how Anthony and Dara were able to resolve their issues and end up with their HEA. They truly are a couple that was meant to be together.
This is a must read and I am very much looking forward to more of Tory Michael's works particularly in the Dream Walker War Series.
My Rating: 4/5 Lattes
All My Best,
Kayla
April 14, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Last month I reviewed this author’s recently published book, Locked in Stone, afterward the author asked if I would be interested in reading some earlier books she had written. I loved Locked in Stone, so I was more than happy to accept these three other titles that are currently not available to review and provide feedback. I’ve only read the first book so far, but I’m delighted to say the author’s talent at weaving an intriguing story still holds true.
This book was quite different in tone from the other book of her’s I’ve read. This one was darker and had a lot more adult situations in it, violence and sex. The chemistry between characters was great, you could feel the heat between Dara and Anthony. Their past was both a wall and a chain between them and it was well worth it to sit back and watch the sparks fly. I was rooting from Anthony from the beginning, even though he came off as a bit of a stick-in-the-mud control-freak at times. Somehow his pomp and prissiness just added to his appeal. The smoking hot sex scenes in the beginning of the book didn’t hurt either.
The supporting cast of players in this story were well-developed too. I loved Sarah and Chris was a hoot, so glad she is the heroine in the next book. Emily and Ronnie took a bit to grow on me, but I hope they come back for the next book. Jordan, wow. I am all mixed up about him. I know he is going to be the hero in the next book, but I kinda want to hate him right now. I so look forward to seeing how Ms. Micheals redeems his sorry psychotic ass. He is a toss-up between being a brilliant socially challenged mad-man or a completely crazy monster. Should make for an interesting read in the next book.
Like I said this book was very dark at times, the plot revolves around some pretty gruesome murders, despite this there was some fun scenes too. The chemistry and quirks of the characters made for some light-hearted moments and some funny dialog. I also already mentioned the steamy parts, fans of 50 Shades might find this one appealing. Not as much sex, but enough with a better plot.
My only critique that I can come up with is the end felt a little rushed, but the author already mentioned the three books take place over the same time period. I’m thinking more details might be on the way for what might have been missing. Sometimes the story also felt a bit like Jekyll and Hyde-ish. Just that there was a wide swing from light to dark, quite dark at times, that it almost felt like different books. This isn’t huge though and I did think it led to an interesting look at how a character can morph and grow depending on the circumstances thrown in their path. But it was just a bit jarring a times.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to read this. I’m looking forward to the next one, but am going to have to wait a bit to continue. Alas life has gotten in the way and I have a couple of other reading commitments to squeeze in this month yet. Rest assured I will continue though, and will be back to dish on the details of book two soon enough.
Last month I reviewed this author’s recently published book, Locked in Stone, afterward the author asked if I would be interested in reading some earlier books she had written. I loved Locked in Stone, so I was more than happy to accept these three other titles that are currently not available to review and provide feedback. I’ve only read the first book so far, but I’m delighted to say the author’s talent at weaving an intriguing story still holds true.
This book was quite different in tone from the other book of her’s I’ve read. This one was darker and had a lot more adult situations in it, violence and sex. The chemistry between characters was great, you could feel the heat between Dara and Anthony. Their past was both a wall and a chain between them and it was well worth it to sit back and watch the sparks fly. I was rooting from Anthony from the beginning, even though he came off as a bit of a stick-in-the-mud control-freak at times. Somehow his pomp and prissiness just added to his appeal. The smoking hot sex scenes in the beginning of the book didn’t hurt either.
The supporting cast of players in this story were well-developed too. I loved Sarah and Chris was a hoot, so glad she is the heroine in the next book. Emily and Ronnie took a bit to grow on me, but I hope they come back for the next book. Jordan, wow. I am all mixed up about him. I know he is going to be the hero in the next book, but I kinda want to hate him right now. I so look forward to seeing how Ms. Micheals redeems his sorry psychotic ass. He is a toss-up between being a brilliant socially challenged mad-man or a completely crazy monster. Should make for an interesting read in the next book.
Like I said this book was very dark at times, the plot revolves around some pretty gruesome murders, despite this there was some fun scenes too. The chemistry and quirks of the characters made for some light-hearted moments and some funny dialog. I also already mentioned the steamy parts, fans of 50 Shades might find this one appealing. Not as much sex, but enough with a better plot.
My only critique that I can come up with is the end felt a little rushed, but the author already mentioned the three books take place over the same time period. I’m thinking more details might be on the way for what might have been missing. Sometimes the story also felt a bit like Jekyll and Hyde-ish. Just that there was a wide swing from light to dark, quite dark at times, that it almost felt like different books. This isn’t huge though and I did think it led to an interesting look at how a character can morph and grow depending on the circumstances thrown in their path. But it was just a bit jarring a times.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to read this. I’m looking forward to the next one, but am going to have to wait a bit to continue. Alas life has gotten in the way and I have a couple of other reading commitments to squeeze in this month yet. Rest assured I will continue though, and will be back to dish on the details of book two soon enough.
July 22, 2012
Reviewed for Booked Up
To See Review at Booked Up
For two hundred years, Athdara Genevieve MacKechnie, Dara, blamed Anthony Michael Caldwell, for killing her two little brothers. And now, Anthony can finally share the memory of what really happened that night; the memory that proves his innocence.
Together, they have to find the ones who all around the world are killing using the Aristocrats’ mark, not knowing if the Aristocrats are back, or it’s somebody else. And if they are back, Dara could finally have the opportunity to take revenge; because the Aristocrats tortured her for two weeks and almost killed her, before she turned into a vampire and Jordan, their leader, killed her little brothers.
The Aristocrats were a group of vampires who, two hundred years ago, killed a lot of humans just for fun. Now, just Jordan remains from the entire group.
While trying to find the truth, the attraction they once felt rises again; however, Dara’s body is full of marks and she is afraid of rejection:
“I forgot you haven’t seen me since Scotland. That you hadn’t seen what those bastards did. If you did, well – I didn’t want to see the expression on your face. I know what you liked about me, and it’s all different now.”
“And you think I won’t want you because of that? Is that what you’re saying? I understand you’re painting me with a very unattractive brush. I acknowledge it’s possible you have justification, through experience, to believe I would turn away because of a few imperfections.”
“A few?”
“This is my choice to make.”
Wow; I couldn’t stop laughing when Dara calls Anthony:
the hottest thing on two legs.
Although they do their best to find the ones who are doing the killings, they don’t find anything until the only family Dara had, the last of her sister’s line, is killed; and she discovers that one of the Aristocrats is her ex. Although she discovers the names of the three men who were with her ex that night, they found two of them already dead.
Ok, I am at the point where I have to give my opinion, so… I loved it! Paranormal lovers, you can’t miss this book. It's wonderful. With lines like this one:
“Your hair reminds me of the sun as it rises just before a storm at sea, promises of the fire that you make me burn with. An emperor would give his kingdom for emeralds the color of your eyes.
A well written story line, lovely characters, and perfectly built action; it's a book that needs to be read. And the quotes from the start of the chapters give the book the final touch. 5 stars and I can't wait to read more of Ms. Tory Michaels.
To See Review at Booked Up
For two hundred years, Athdara Genevieve MacKechnie, Dara, blamed Anthony Michael Caldwell, for killing her two little brothers. And now, Anthony can finally share the memory of what really happened that night; the memory that proves his innocence.
Together, they have to find the ones who all around the world are killing using the Aristocrats’ mark, not knowing if the Aristocrats are back, or it’s somebody else. And if they are back, Dara could finally have the opportunity to take revenge; because the Aristocrats tortured her for two weeks and almost killed her, before she turned into a vampire and Jordan, their leader, killed her little brothers.
The Aristocrats were a group of vampires who, two hundred years ago, killed a lot of humans just for fun. Now, just Jordan remains from the entire group.
While trying to find the truth, the attraction they once felt rises again; however, Dara’s body is full of marks and she is afraid of rejection:
“I forgot you haven’t seen me since Scotland. That you hadn’t seen what those bastards did. If you did, well – I didn’t want to see the expression on your face. I know what you liked about me, and it’s all different now.”
“And you think I won’t want you because of that? Is that what you’re saying? I understand you’re painting me with a very unattractive brush. I acknowledge it’s possible you have justification, through experience, to believe I would turn away because of a few imperfections.”
“A few?”
“This is my choice to make.”
Wow; I couldn’t stop laughing when Dara calls Anthony:
the hottest thing on two legs.
Although they do their best to find the ones who are doing the killings, they don’t find anything until the only family Dara had, the last of her sister’s line, is killed; and she discovers that one of the Aristocrats is her ex. Although she discovers the names of the three men who were with her ex that night, they found two of them already dead.
Ok, I am at the point where I have to give my opinion, so… I loved it! Paranormal lovers, you can’t miss this book. It's wonderful. With lines like this one:
“Your hair reminds me of the sun as it rises just before a storm at sea, promises of the fire that you make me burn with. An emperor would give his kingdom for emeralds the color of your eyes.
A well written story line, lovely characters, and perfectly built action; it's a book that needs to be read. And the quotes from the start of the chapters give the book the final touch. 5 stars and I can't wait to read more of Ms. Tory Michaels.
Want to read
August 10, 2016NOR
August 20, 2012
looks and sounds awesome...
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