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Vamp City #2
A Kiss of Blood
Only one woman can save Vamp City...
One of the few humans who managed to escape the deadly twilight world of Vamp City, Quinn Lennox vows to never return. But the vampires want her back, for only she has the power to renew the magic of their crumbling world and free the vampires trapped within.
When the dangerous and all-too-seductive Arturo Mazza comes for her, Quinn knows she can never trust him after the betrayal she suffered at his hands. But with her beloved brother's fate hanging in the balance, and her own power beginning to emerge, she chooses to risk all on yet another perilous journey back to Vamp City. And though she tries to deny it, her heart begins to hold hope that even a ruthless vampire can learn the meaning of true love.
One of the few humans who managed to escape the deadly twilight world of Vamp City, Quinn Lennox vows to never return. But the vampires want her back, for only she has the power to renew the magic of their crumbling world and free the vampires trapped within.
When the dangerous and all-too-seductive Arturo Mazza comes for her, Quinn knows she can never trust him after the betrayal she suffered at his hands. But with her beloved brother's fate hanging in the balance, and her own power beginning to emerge, she chooses to risk all on yet another perilous journey back to Vamp City. And though she tries to deny it, her heart begins to hold hope that even a ruthless vampire can learn the meaning of true love.
350 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 25, 2013
32 people are currently reading
1547 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Palmer
67 books1,228 followersPamela Palmer is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Feral Warriors shape-shifter series, the Esri Series, and (coming in 2012) the Vamp City series. Raised in an Air Force family, Pamela lived in eleven different houses by the time she was fourteen. The two constants in her life—her family and her imagination. When her initial career goal of captaining starships didn't pan out, she turned to engineering, satisfying her desire for adventure with books and daydreams until finally succumbing to the need to create worlds of her own. Pamela now calls the suburbs of Washington, D.C. home.
For excerpts, more about the books and characters, and fun contests, visit www.pamelapalmer.net.
For excerpts, more about the books and characters, and fun contests, visit www.pamelapalmer.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 24, 2013
Note: This is probably the longest review I will ever write...
I was able to get an early copy of A Kiss Of Blood by Pamela Palmer and I loved it. Normally when I love a book, it's easy to tell readers why. But with A Kiss Of Blood, I found myself in somewhat of a quandary. You see, I can't talk about what I loved in this book without contrasting it against what I didn't like about its predecessor, A Blood Seduction, and usually I don't post about things I don't like in other books.* Add me being friends with the author, and I was very reluctant to dissect my issues with ABS in public.
I broached these concerns with Pamela Palmer. Since her skin is thicker than an alligator, she told me to go for it. So here goes, though I'll start with what I liked about A Blood Seduction.
Palmer does great multi-layered worldbuilding. A Blood Seduction is set in modern times where an alternate version of Washington, D.C. called Vamp City (or Washington, V.C.). exists alongside the regular one. Vamp City was originally created by a sorcerer as a haven for vampires because it's always night there. It's an 18th century parallel of the regular Washington, D.C., where most of its inhabitants still get around by horse and carriage instead of cars. The vampires in V.C. also feed from emotions as well as blood. Some are fear feeders, some lust feeders, and some pain feeders. In addition to vampires, there are supernatural creatures called Traders, Rippers, and werewolves.
Vamp City might be a haven for its supernatural inhabitants, but if you're a human, it's hell on earth. Humans are brought there to be food, slaves, or both. Some arrive by accidentally stumbling through the brief openings between the worlds, as did Quinn and her brother, but once they're there, they can't leave. And anyone in their right mind would be desperate to leave. Slavery from a less-than-sadistic master is the best a human can hope for in V.C., and most who arrive aren't that lucky. There's a scene in ABS where a pain-feeding vampire rapes a human slave in a horrifying way, and from the reaction of other characters, it wasn't an unusual occurrence.
And here's where my personal baggage as a reader comes in. Some readers love when an author goes no-holds-barred on the grittiness, which is why there's an audience for every novel. Rape and slavery are already knee-jerk issues for me, so seeing both through the unflinching lens that Palmer points at her world was difficult. I would have preferred fade-to-black instead of detail in this and other violent scenes, but again, that's me bringing my subjectivity to the table.
Back to the heroine, Quinn. I felt so bad for her. She wasn't only trying to save her own life after tumbling into this brutal world; she was trying to save her younger brother, too. They were separated after arriving and through most of the novel, she doesn't even know if he's alive or dead, but she never gives up her search for him. I admired her for that. What I wanted to shake her over - even while understanding it - was her reaction to the hero, Arturo. You've probably heard the phrase "any port in a storm." Well, Arturo wasn't Quinn's "any" port in Vamp City - he was her only port, and she responded to him with all of the reckless trust and gratitude you'd expect from someone who knew her other options were torturous death and more torturous death. Arturo's sexiness further mired Quinn's emotions in a Stockholm Syndrome-sort-of quicksand. She knew she shouldn't count on him - he told her enough not to - but she kept doing it because in a world of monsters, he was the only one not actively trying to chew her up and spit her out.
And here was my biggest problem with ABS: Arturo. I understood why Quinn did what she did with him, even though I wanted to send her to the nearest qualified therapist for it. But his interactions with Quinn were rooted in selfishness. When he was kind to her, it was because he wanted something. He exploited her love for her brother and betrayed her, plus was content to keep Quinn as a slave because, well, that's what ALL humans were in his world. If not for his one good act at the end of A Blood Seduction, I would have written him off as completely irredeemable.
To be honest, I think I did despite that one good act. Which is why, if Palmer would've told me before I read the next novel, A Kiss Of Blood, "You'll like Arturo by the end of this," I would have bet her my car that she was wrong.
For the record, if I would've made that bet, I'd owe Pamela Palmer a Jeep Cherokee.
*mild spoiler warnings for A Kiss Of Blood*
This book took everything about the characters and world and turned them on their head. When A Kiss Of Blood opens, Quinn is back home with her brother, who's dying from some mysterious, magical ailment. But her brutal experiences in ABS have toughened her instead of broken her, and she's ready to take the offensive since she knows the villain of ABS will soon be after her. She's spent her brief respite in her own world trying to ready herself mentally, physically, and magically. If I wanted to shake her while reading ABS, in A Kiss Of Blood, Quinn shook herself for me and has no illusions about Arturo when he shows back up on her doorstep. Despite her (well-earned!) anger with him, she partners with Arturo because she needs to return to V.C. to find a cure for her brother, and he needs her to renew the failing magic that's destroying his world.
At the start of AKOB, I was rooting for Vamp City to be destroyed, preferably with Arturo in it. But as Quinn and Arturo navigate the deadly world together, some important truths are revealed. The first is that not every supernatural creature is an appalling sadist. Some, for example, are secretly involved in an Underground Railroad to transport humans back to their own world. More side characters like Quinn's brother, Zack, and a young woman named Lily round out the plot in interesting ways (I love it when side characters are as three-dimensional as the protagonists). The other significant revelation was that the sorcerer who created Vamp City had an ulterior motive: he wasn't really making a haven for vampires, he was making a death trap for them. Unbeknownst to the vampires, the magic fueling V.C. was always intended to fail, but before it did and doomed them, it would corrode their souls, one evil deed at a time.
That's why Vamp City is such a brutal place by the time Quinn stumbles into it. The magic has almost completed its two-fold task and all but the strongest vampires are now cruel shells of their former selves. Quinn's magic as a sorceress, however, counteracts the damage to those in close proximity with her, as Arturo is. Arturo, as though waking up from a nightmare, is wracked with guilt when he realizes the horrible person he'd transformed into over the centuries. He resolves to make it up to Quinn even as he fights the poison still eating at his soul. It was actually heartbreaking to watch him view his once-close friends through his reawakened conscience and wonder if there was any hope that they, too, could be returned to their former selves. I have to hand it to the original sorcerer, Blackstone: it's one thing to devise a long-term plan to kill your enemies. Quite another to kill them only after rotting their souls until there's nothing left. For that, Blackstone wins the Diabolical prize, in my opinion.
Speaking of Blackstone, more of Quinn's magical background is revealed, explaining why she's such a powerful sorceress on one hand and yet can't control her magic on the other. I really enjoyed that twist. It added more depth to her character as she does whatever she can to master her magic in time to save the city and her brother. Quinn's refusal to blindly fall back into a relationship with Arturo also got a big thumbs up from me despite my changed opinion of him. AKOB does bring on heavy heat between the two, though this time, her attraction to Arturo felt genuine instead of influenced by desperate circumstances. As for Arturo, his feelings for Quinn shone through so when he apologized - repeatedly - for what he'd done in book one, I believed him instead of thinking he was saying it for selfish reasons. Another thing I really appreciated was that despite the personal developments, Quinn and Arturo continued to try and save others no matter the personal sacrifice entailed. That made me root like mad for them, and I can't wait to see what happens in book three.
In short, I heartily recommend A Kiss Of Blood. I'll go even further to say that if you have the same issues I do with certain themes, you may not want to read A Blood Seduction first. Palmer recaps enough of what happens that you shouldn't feel lost, and A Kiss Of Blood has the same world complexity without detailing "on page" the harshest aspects of Vamp City.
A Kiss Of Blood releases tomorrow, June 25th.
*For a detailed explanation of why I don't review books I dislike, go here: http://jeanienefrost.com/2011/01/on-r...
I was able to get an early copy of A Kiss Of Blood by Pamela Palmer and I loved it. Normally when I love a book, it's easy to tell readers why. But with A Kiss Of Blood, I found myself in somewhat of a quandary. You see, I can't talk about what I loved in this book without contrasting it against what I didn't like about its predecessor, A Blood Seduction, and usually I don't post about things I don't like in other books.* Add me being friends with the author, and I was very reluctant to dissect my issues with ABS in public.
I broached these concerns with Pamela Palmer. Since her skin is thicker than an alligator, she told me to go for it. So here goes, though I'll start with what I liked about A Blood Seduction.
Palmer does great multi-layered worldbuilding. A Blood Seduction is set in modern times where an alternate version of Washington, D.C. called Vamp City (or Washington, V.C.). exists alongside the regular one. Vamp City was originally created by a sorcerer as a haven for vampires because it's always night there. It's an 18th century parallel of the regular Washington, D.C., where most of its inhabitants still get around by horse and carriage instead of cars. The vampires in V.C. also feed from emotions as well as blood. Some are fear feeders, some lust feeders, and some pain feeders. In addition to vampires, there are supernatural creatures called Traders, Rippers, and werewolves.
Vamp City might be a haven for its supernatural inhabitants, but if you're a human, it's hell on earth. Humans are brought there to be food, slaves, or both. Some arrive by accidentally stumbling through the brief openings between the worlds, as did Quinn and her brother, but once they're there, they can't leave. And anyone in their right mind would be desperate to leave. Slavery from a less-than-sadistic master is the best a human can hope for in V.C., and most who arrive aren't that lucky. There's a scene in ABS where a pain-feeding vampire rapes a human slave in a horrifying way, and from the reaction of other characters, it wasn't an unusual occurrence.
And here's where my personal baggage as a reader comes in. Some readers love when an author goes no-holds-barred on the grittiness, which is why there's an audience for every novel. Rape and slavery are already knee-jerk issues for me, so seeing both through the unflinching lens that Palmer points at her world was difficult. I would have preferred fade-to-black instead of detail in this and other violent scenes, but again, that's me bringing my subjectivity to the table.
Back to the heroine, Quinn. I felt so bad for her. She wasn't only trying to save her own life after tumbling into this brutal world; she was trying to save her younger brother, too. They were separated after arriving and through most of the novel, she doesn't even know if he's alive or dead, but she never gives up her search for him. I admired her for that. What I wanted to shake her over - even while understanding it - was her reaction to the hero, Arturo. You've probably heard the phrase "any port in a storm." Well, Arturo wasn't Quinn's "any" port in Vamp City - he was her only port, and she responded to him with all of the reckless trust and gratitude you'd expect from someone who knew her other options were torturous death and more torturous death. Arturo's sexiness further mired Quinn's emotions in a Stockholm Syndrome-sort-of quicksand. She knew she shouldn't count on him - he told her enough not to - but she kept doing it because in a world of monsters, he was the only one not actively trying to chew her up and spit her out.
And here was my biggest problem with ABS: Arturo. I understood why Quinn did what she did with him, even though I wanted to send her to the nearest qualified therapist for it. But his interactions with Quinn were rooted in selfishness. When he was kind to her, it was because he wanted something. He exploited her love for her brother and betrayed her, plus was content to keep Quinn as a slave because, well, that's what ALL humans were in his world. If not for his one good act at the end of A Blood Seduction, I would have written him off as completely irredeemable.
To be honest, I think I did despite that one good act. Which is why, if Palmer would've told me before I read the next novel, A Kiss Of Blood, "You'll like Arturo by the end of this," I would have bet her my car that she was wrong.
For the record, if I would've made that bet, I'd owe Pamela Palmer a Jeep Cherokee.
*mild spoiler warnings for A Kiss Of Blood*
This book took everything about the characters and world and turned them on their head. When A Kiss Of Blood opens, Quinn is back home with her brother, who's dying from some mysterious, magical ailment. But her brutal experiences in ABS have toughened her instead of broken her, and she's ready to take the offensive since she knows the villain of ABS will soon be after her. She's spent her brief respite in her own world trying to ready herself mentally, physically, and magically. If I wanted to shake her while reading ABS, in A Kiss Of Blood, Quinn shook herself for me and has no illusions about Arturo when he shows back up on her doorstep. Despite her (well-earned!) anger with him, she partners with Arturo because she needs to return to V.C. to find a cure for her brother, and he needs her to renew the failing magic that's destroying his world.
At the start of AKOB, I was rooting for Vamp City to be destroyed, preferably with Arturo in it. But as Quinn and Arturo navigate the deadly world together, some important truths are revealed. The first is that not every supernatural creature is an appalling sadist. Some, for example, are secretly involved in an Underground Railroad to transport humans back to their own world. More side characters like Quinn's brother, Zack, and a young woman named Lily round out the plot in interesting ways (I love it when side characters are as three-dimensional as the protagonists). The other significant revelation was that the sorcerer who created Vamp City had an ulterior motive: he wasn't really making a haven for vampires, he was making a death trap for them. Unbeknownst to the vampires, the magic fueling V.C. was always intended to fail, but before it did and doomed them, it would corrode their souls, one evil deed at a time.
That's why Vamp City is such a brutal place by the time Quinn stumbles into it. The magic has almost completed its two-fold task and all but the strongest vampires are now cruel shells of their former selves. Quinn's magic as a sorceress, however, counteracts the damage to those in close proximity with her, as Arturo is. Arturo, as though waking up from a nightmare, is wracked with guilt when he realizes the horrible person he'd transformed into over the centuries. He resolves to make it up to Quinn even as he fights the poison still eating at his soul. It was actually heartbreaking to watch him view his once-close friends through his reawakened conscience and wonder if there was any hope that they, too, could be returned to their former selves. I have to hand it to the original sorcerer, Blackstone: it's one thing to devise a long-term plan to kill your enemies. Quite another to kill them only after rotting their souls until there's nothing left. For that, Blackstone wins the Diabolical prize, in my opinion.
Speaking of Blackstone, more of Quinn's magical background is revealed, explaining why she's such a powerful sorceress on one hand and yet can't control her magic on the other. I really enjoyed that twist. It added more depth to her character as she does whatever she can to master her magic in time to save the city and her brother. Quinn's refusal to blindly fall back into a relationship with Arturo also got a big thumbs up from me despite my changed opinion of him. AKOB does bring on heavy heat between the two, though this time, her attraction to Arturo felt genuine instead of influenced by desperate circumstances. As for Arturo, his feelings for Quinn shone through so when he apologized - repeatedly - for what he'd done in book one, I believed him instead of thinking he was saying it for selfish reasons. Another thing I really appreciated was that despite the personal developments, Quinn and Arturo continued to try and save others no matter the personal sacrifice entailed. That made me root like mad for them, and I can't wait to see what happens in book three.
In short, I heartily recommend A Kiss Of Blood. I'll go even further to say that if you have the same issues I do with certain themes, you may not want to read A Blood Seduction first. Palmer recaps enough of what happens that you shouldn't feel lost, and A Kiss Of Blood has the same world complexity without detailing "on page" the harshest aspects of Vamp City.
A Kiss Of Blood releases tomorrow, June 25th.
*For a detailed explanation of why I don't review books I dislike, go here: http://jeanienefrost.com/2011/01/on-r...
July 10, 2019
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
this is not the first time that I have had the opportunity to read from this author. I have read the first three books of her shifter series--which I loved so much I purchased them. So I have always liked her writing and voice in her stories. I didn't know if I would like Kiss of Blood, I still haven't read the first one in the series "Blood Seduction". So at the beginning I was a bit lost, and really there were some things mentioned which I had really wished I had read the first one before Kiss of Blood. With that being said, there was quite a bit that I enjoyed about this story. It has been a while since I have found a new vampire romance series that I just fall in love with. Even though the main supernatural creature is the Vampire, its a bit different. I really enjoyed reading the unique twist on Vampires in this one, and those who have already read this, know what I am talking about.
The story begins with Quinn Lennox our heroine who is determined to save her brother no matter the cost and to also bring magic back and this is where she runs into our male lead of the story... Arturo. There is a sense of betrayal between them but they have to work together to get magic back and Quinn has to learn to just let go and learn to trust again even when its not easy to do so. She can't afford to be picky with her allies especially with her brother's life on the line. Quinn is about to face THE challenge of her life, but one wonders if she is up for it and is she will conquer or be defeated with the danger escalating around her...
This was a fabulous book and even though its book two I can't recommend this trilogy enough. Such a unique take on vampires and love the world building that is crafted in this story. You never know what to expect from this author but the one aspect you can rely on is her storytelling capabilities. I loved the chemistry between Arturo and Quinn, so sexy and highly provacative. And so many badass suspenseful scenes that is contained in this story here. I guarantee you will be on the edge of your seat from beginning to end with this story.
I will say if you love a intense and fiercely passionate story...Kiss of Blood is for you! This new world that Palmer has created is sensational and will blow your mind! A stellar of a read! Enjoyed every moment from beginning to end. No complains here.
this is not the first time that I have had the opportunity to read from this author. I have read the first three books of her shifter series--which I loved so much I purchased them. So I have always liked her writing and voice in her stories. I didn't know if I would like Kiss of Blood, I still haven't read the first one in the series "Blood Seduction". So at the beginning I was a bit lost, and really there were some things mentioned which I had really wished I had read the first one before Kiss of Blood. With that being said, there was quite a bit that I enjoyed about this story. It has been a while since I have found a new vampire romance series that I just fall in love with. Even though the main supernatural creature is the Vampire, its a bit different. I really enjoyed reading the unique twist on Vampires in this one, and those who have already read this, know what I am talking about.The story begins with Quinn Lennox our heroine who is determined to save her brother no matter the cost and to also bring magic back and this is where she runs into our male lead of the story... Arturo. There is a sense of betrayal between them but they have to work together to get magic back and Quinn has to learn to just let go and learn to trust again even when its not easy to do so. She can't afford to be picky with her allies especially with her brother's life on the line. Quinn is about to face THE challenge of her life, but one wonders if she is up for it and is she will conquer or be defeated with the danger escalating around her...
This was a fabulous book and even though its book two I can't recommend this trilogy enough. Such a unique take on vampires and love the world building that is crafted in this story. You never know what to expect from this author but the one aspect you can rely on is her storytelling capabilities. I loved the chemistry between Arturo and Quinn, so sexy and highly provacative. And so many badass suspenseful scenes that is contained in this story here. I guarantee you will be on the edge of your seat from beginning to end with this story.
I will say if you love a intense and fiercely passionate story...Kiss of Blood is for you! This new world that Palmer has created is sensational and will blow your mind! A stellar of a read! Enjoyed every moment from beginning to end. No complains here.
November 20, 2015
A Kiss of Blood is the second book in Pamela Palmer’s Vamp City series, and while this too is dark, provocative, and sexy, as is the first book, we see a more compassionate side to both Arturo and Quinn. I became more invested in the beings who live in Washington, VC, and wanted to see them set free from the nightmare that was becoming their lives. Without a doubt, this world Ms. Palmer has created is unique, the characters complex, and once I started, I couldn’t put it down.
From the cover:The truth is, Quinn Lennox only cares about one thing; her brother, Zack, who’s dying as a result of magic poisoning. Unless Quinn can renew the magic that allows Vamp City to exist, the city will die, along with all who reside in it – including Zack. Quinn doesn’t care about the barbaric and bloodthirsty beings who live there, but to save Zack, she must save them as well. And so it continues…
One of the few humans who managed to escape the deadly twilight world of Vamp City, Quinn Lennox vows to never return. But the vampires want her back, for only she has the power to renew the magic of their crumbling world and free the vampires trapped within.
When the dangerous and all-too-seductive Arturo Mazza comes for her, Quinn knows she can never trust him after the betrayal she suffered at his hands. But with her beloved brother's fate hanging in the balance, and her own power beginning to emerge, she chooses to risk all on yet another perilous journey back to Vamp City. And though she tries to deny it, her heart begins to hold hope that even a ruthless vampire can learn the meaning of true love.
I truly enjoyed this exciting installment of the Vamp City series! Talk about a riveting story! In my review of book #1, A Blood Seduction, I said that I wasn’t sure if Arturo could be redeemed because he was a selfish, self serving, bastard! A gamma hero, through and through. Willing to send Quinn to her death to get what he wanted… for him, the end always justified the means. But in this book, he really is coming around and that makes me very happy.
Will Quinn save Vamp City? Will she and Arturo ever work out their issues? What the heck is happening to Zack?? I’ll have to wait until the next book to find out. Talk about a cliff hanger!!!
My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review!
November 18, 2018
This second in the series ended in cliff hanger. I’m not sure I’ll read book 3. I see the authors attempt to redeem Arturo but he’s still a lying vampire. I do believe that he loves Quinn but I don’t like his manipulative ways. Also, the heroine is a sorcerer who no one knows anything about her powers, how to use them or even control them.
This story could have been more but I don’t trust the vampires and don’t believe they have enough good to compensate for their propensity to feed and abuse humans.
This story could have been more but I don’t trust the vampires and don’t believe they have enough good to compensate for their propensity to feed and abuse humans.
July 8, 2025
Even though I didn’t wow and wed myself to the first book, it’s pages still filled my mind with a unique, chilling alternate world full of villains on every street corner. The ending was an especially powerful push to continue the series with a secretive change coming over the devilishly dark Arturo.
Unfortunately this somewhat sanitized sequel dampened the original’s spark. There’s a lot of emotional drama and the sexual tension doesn’t strike me as believable. Think of historical romances where they accidentally touch each other and lightning strikes. There was a scene in the middle where this especially annoyed me (pre-drink) where she gets uncontrollably turned on just by touching his back slightly in a room full of people. All of this was during a dangerous time where they’re not supposed to show any interest in each other. I mean, seriously – are you a mindless animal? The saving grace of this is it soon actually gets twisted and hot.
Pacing is slightly lackluster since much time is spent discussing consequences of the ‘big bad’ catching them and a massive villain fight, but that doesn’t even happen in this book. Thankfully the book gets better within the last 60 pages or so, but reading up to that point wasn’t as enjoyable as it should have been. Cliffhangers should be handled delicately, and this one’s TV season finale form was a turn off. The abrupt cut off is just strange and frustrating.
Arturo was a sexy, flawed guy in the original. Now in order to redeem him and make him more classically likeable, the author has stripped him of his mysterious nature, making him more generic to the masses. Now he resembles about every Tom, Dick and Harry out there in Paranormal Romance. He spends most of the book trying to prove himself to Quinn. At least in the first book, where he was half hero but half villain, I was kept on the edge of my seat. Quinn is likeable, although her obsessive caring about her brother is a bit hollow. Watching her discover and develop her newfound abilities intrigued me. I did adore the newcomer vampire friend.
The clichéd Paranormal Romance elements have been upped, and the tone is less dark. The werewolf scene was particularly brutal, though – mean, nasty, nasty creatures. I do totally dig the author’s invented world and the differences between Emoras and the rippers. Awesome imagination.
Overall this book disappointed me. It’s still a chilling, dark tale, but it’s less so than before and the stakes aren’t set as high. Sensual scenes are hot enough but the hero lacks as much of a mysterious aura and doesn’t deliver as much excitement. Besides ending on a big cliffhanger, this second book doesn’t even really propel the main story.
Unfortunately this somewhat sanitized sequel dampened the original’s spark. There’s a lot of emotional drama and the sexual tension doesn’t strike me as believable. Think of historical romances where they accidentally touch each other and lightning strikes. There was a scene in the middle where this especially annoyed me (pre-drink) where she gets uncontrollably turned on just by touching his back slightly in a room full of people. All of this was during a dangerous time where they’re not supposed to show any interest in each other. I mean, seriously – are you a mindless animal? The saving grace of this is it soon actually gets twisted and hot.
Pacing is slightly lackluster since much time is spent discussing consequences of the ‘big bad’ catching them and a massive villain fight, but that doesn’t even happen in this book. Thankfully the book gets better within the last 60 pages or so, but reading up to that point wasn’t as enjoyable as it should have been. Cliffhangers should be handled delicately, and this one’s TV season finale form was a turn off. The abrupt cut off is just strange and frustrating.
Arturo was a sexy, flawed guy in the original. Now in order to redeem him and make him more classically likeable, the author has stripped him of his mysterious nature, making him more generic to the masses. Now he resembles about every Tom, Dick and Harry out there in Paranormal Romance. He spends most of the book trying to prove himself to Quinn. At least in the first book, where he was half hero but half villain, I was kept on the edge of my seat. Quinn is likeable, although her obsessive caring about her brother is a bit hollow. Watching her discover and develop her newfound abilities intrigued me. I did adore the newcomer vampire friend.
The clichéd Paranormal Romance elements have been upped, and the tone is less dark. The werewolf scene was particularly brutal, though – mean, nasty, nasty creatures. I do totally dig the author’s invented world and the differences between Emoras and the rippers. Awesome imagination.
Overall this book disappointed me. It’s still a chilling, dark tale, but it’s less so than before and the stakes aren’t set as high. Sensual scenes are hot enough but the hero lacks as much of a mysterious aura and doesn’t deliver as much excitement. Besides ending on a big cliffhanger, this second book doesn’t even really propel the main story.
June 26, 2013
The ending caused it to lose a star.
Quin Lennox found herself lucky last time, managing to escape the alternate world of Vamp City. But that world isn’t quite done with her. They need her powers to restore the magic of their world and free the vampires currently bound there. Vampire Arturo Mazza is sent to bring her back, and Quinn has learned her lesson than to trust him again after his betrayal. However this time Vamp City has some leverage, her brother. She has to return to save him, and Arturo’s all she’s got. Has he learned the error of his ways? Or is she setting herself up for disappointment once again.
The first book was one of my favorite reads last year, so the sooner I could get my hands one, the better. Palmer’s morbid imagination really makes this series a standout to me, though I think certain dynamics of the first book didn’t sit well with everyone. For this novel I think it has more mass appeal, but I had a gripe or two. I guess the pace of the book was a bit of a problem for me. They spend quite a bit of time talking about the final adversary and yet we don’t even see that stand-off in this book. Cliffhanger enthusiasts should love it, but I can’t say the same for those of you who don’t. I just wish it would have wrapped up the novel in a more serial fashion because towards the end I was anticipating a conflict I didn’t get. The book just kind of ended and that was that.
I do like her efforts to redeem Arturo. I mean, sometimes the graphic and horrific things he endured got a little hard to stomach, but he had a lot of ground to make up and I think he did that. Tish was okay. I never really had a problem with her, though her over protectiveness of her brother, while noble, got a little annoying after a while. The chemistry between Tish and Arturo was s still immensely strong which certainly adds to their appeal.
I liked the history and backstory about the vampires and other supernaturals that live in Washington, VC, learning of their gradual deterioration into what they have become and why. It was thought-provoking and I was often conflicted about the best course of action to fix everything.
At this point I am sort of wondering if Palmer plans to make this a trilogy or if it’s an ongoing series. If it’s a trilogy it certainly feels like a middle book. I feel as if all the issues presented can certainly be resolved in one more.
*ARC provided by the publisher.
*Review also posted to Amazon.
Quin Lennox found herself lucky last time, managing to escape the alternate world of Vamp City. But that world isn’t quite done with her. They need her powers to restore the magic of their world and free the vampires currently bound there. Vampire Arturo Mazza is sent to bring her back, and Quinn has learned her lesson than to trust him again after his betrayal. However this time Vamp City has some leverage, her brother. She has to return to save him, and Arturo’s all she’s got. Has he learned the error of his ways? Or is she setting herself up for disappointment once again.
The first book was one of my favorite reads last year, so the sooner I could get my hands one, the better. Palmer’s morbid imagination really makes this series a standout to me, though I think certain dynamics of the first book didn’t sit well with everyone. For this novel I think it has more mass appeal, but I had a gripe or two. I guess the pace of the book was a bit of a problem for me. They spend quite a bit of time talking about the final adversary and yet we don’t even see that stand-off in this book. Cliffhanger enthusiasts should love it, but I can’t say the same for those of you who don’t. I just wish it would have wrapped up the novel in a more serial fashion because towards the end I was anticipating a conflict I didn’t get. The book just kind of ended and that was that.
I do like her efforts to redeem Arturo. I mean, sometimes the graphic and horrific things he endured got a little hard to stomach, but he had a lot of ground to make up and I think he did that. Tish was okay. I never really had a problem with her, though her over protectiveness of her brother, while noble, got a little annoying after a while. The chemistry between Tish and Arturo was s still immensely strong which certainly adds to their appeal.
I liked the history and backstory about the vampires and other supernaturals that live in Washington, VC, learning of their gradual deterioration into what they have become and why. It was thought-provoking and I was often conflicted about the best course of action to fix everything.
At this point I am sort of wondering if Palmer plans to make this a trilogy or if it’s an ongoing series. If it’s a trilogy it certainly feels like a middle book. I feel as if all the issues presented can certainly be resolved in one more.
*ARC provided by the publisher.
*Review also posted to Amazon.
June 12, 2013
Not one sparkly vampire here – only frightening, bloodthirsty vampires live in Vamp City. The vampires of Vamp City are truly the stuff of nightmares. Not only do they feed off the blood of their victims, they also feed on emotion: fear, pain, and/or pleasure. Vamp City is a parallel world to Washington, D.C. and was created by a powerful sorcerer and his magic. In this book, the boundaries between our human world in the city of Washington D.C. and the vampire world are beginning to deteriorate. The magic must be renewed by a sorcerer, which in turn, would protect both worlds. The vampires think that Quinn is the sorceress that can save them. There are a few problems with this plan – Quinn has no idea how to use her magical powers.
This is a scary world and probably the way I would have imagined vampires to be. Not only do vampires reside in this world, there are bloodthirsty werewolves, and even fae. The inhabitants of this world are brutal and any human unfortunate to find themselves in Vamp City is used for either food or entertainment purposes. The humans stuck in this world live to serve the vampires, either as food or slaves (slava). Humans who remain in this world take on a phosphorescent glow. (OK, cute twist – the humans sparkle).
I love the premise of this series. The world is richly detailed and the diversity of the paranormal creatures is interesting. I loved the element of danger of this world. I don’t think I have ever seen werewolves this creepy and primal.
A Kiss of Blood is a nice addition to the Vamp City series. This book moved the plot along nicely and left some plot threads unresolved. The ending was abrupt and a little bit of a cliffhanger making me want to read the next book in the series. If you love your vampires bloody and deadly, then this is the series for you.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Avon for a review copy of this book.
Badass Book Reviews .
This is a scary world and probably the way I would have imagined vampires to be. Not only do vampires reside in this world, there are bloodthirsty werewolves, and even fae. The inhabitants of this world are brutal and any human unfortunate to find themselves in Vamp City is used for either food or entertainment purposes. The humans stuck in this world live to serve the vampires, either as food or slaves (slava). Humans who remain in this world take on a phosphorescent glow. (OK, cute twist – the humans sparkle).
I love the premise of this series. The world is richly detailed and the diversity of the paranormal creatures is interesting. I loved the element of danger of this world. I don’t think I have ever seen werewolves this creepy and primal.
A Kiss of Blood is a nice addition to the Vamp City series. This book moved the plot along nicely and left some plot threads unresolved. The ending was abrupt and a little bit of a cliffhanger making me want to read the next book in the series. If you love your vampires bloody and deadly, then this is the series for you.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Avon for a review copy of this book.
Badass Book Reviews .
July 16, 2013
Last year I read A Blood Seduction and had very mixed feelings. For one, I found the world to be a very violent, dark urban fantasy world. I liked the fact the author goes there with the violent creepiness. There were parts that made me uncomfortable and unsettled. I found Vamp City to be a well built world and I wanted to go back to it in the second book. My frustration arose with the hero Arturo. In book one he is an anti-hero, lying and deceiving the heroine relentlessly. He had reasons, and I would have gone with it had they not slept together. That part made no sense to me as I found no attractive qualities in him for the heroine to want to initiate a physical relationship with him. At the end of the book, I pretty much hated him.
A Kiss of Blood starts with Quinn our heroine back in regular Washington, DC with her very sick brother Zack. They have both escaped the evil vampires, but now Quinn worries that Zack has magic poisoning and they only way to cure him is to get him back to Vamp City. But that means she risks being captured again by the evil Cristoff. There is also that pesky little problem that she is a sorceress (surprise! Even to her) and the fate of Vamp City and basically the world rests on her shoulders. She needs to learn how to use her magic and fast. Off to Vamp City her and Zack go to try to cure him and save the innocent humans who have no idea this place even exists.
So the big question for me reading this book is if Arturo would be redeemed. The answer – maybe? I feel like this installment was much more a mainstream urban fantasy book which kind of bummed me out. The first book took so many chances and this one felt safer. Arturo is a better person in this one, but I think his transition happens too quickly. He acted so horribly in book one because he is under the control of Cristoff, the big baddie. He has loyalties or at least has to maintain the pretense of a loyalty to him to stay alive. In this book he seems to jump into Quinn’s life so easily. I wanted him to grovel or have a harder time getting away from Cristoff. They fell into ooey-gooey love and I’m just not sure how I feel about it yet.
The world is still a cool one but I was frustrated with the romance and I wish it had been an edgier book like the previous.
Rating: C+
A Kiss of Blood starts with Quinn our heroine back in regular Washington, DC with her very sick brother Zack. They have both escaped the evil vampires, but now Quinn worries that Zack has magic poisoning and they only way to cure him is to get him back to Vamp City. But that means she risks being captured again by the evil Cristoff. There is also that pesky little problem that she is a sorceress (surprise! Even to her) and the fate of Vamp City and basically the world rests on her shoulders. She needs to learn how to use her magic and fast. Off to Vamp City her and Zack go to try to cure him and save the innocent humans who have no idea this place even exists.
So the big question for me reading this book is if Arturo would be redeemed. The answer – maybe? I feel like this installment was much more a mainstream urban fantasy book which kind of bummed me out. The first book took so many chances and this one felt safer. Arturo is a better person in this one, but I think his transition happens too quickly. He acted so horribly in book one because he is under the control of Cristoff, the big baddie. He has loyalties or at least has to maintain the pretense of a loyalty to him to stay alive. In this book he seems to jump into Quinn’s life so easily. I wanted him to grovel or have a harder time getting away from Cristoff. They fell into ooey-gooey love and I’m just not sure how I feel about it yet.
The world is still a cool one but I was frustrated with the romance and I wish it had been an edgier book like the previous.
Rating: C+
July 17, 2015
When I finished reading book 1, A Blood Seduction, I wasn't the biggest fan of Quinn or her VC vamp protector/betrayer Arturo. But, I loved the author's Vamp City. It's eerie, a human hunting ground. Fabulous! Honestly, although I had book two sitting on my shelf, I wasn't drawn to it. But, after reading Jeaniene Frost's blog post regarding A Kiss of Blood (the non-spoilery parts only), I decided I had to give the series another go. I was not disappointed. In fact, after reading the book, I went back to Ms. Frost's post and read the spoilery bits. While I did not have any issues with the descriptive scenes in the first book, I did share her feelings about Arturo in both.
For those who enjoy the darker side of the paranormal, this is a must-read! Ms. Palmer's characters are as complex (side characters included) as the gritty and unique world she has created. I'm super anxious for book 3, especially since this book ends at the start of a life-or-death mission!
The author's website offers information about Vamp City and a FAQ page for the series.
♬ ♪ You are my sunshine, my only sunshine ... ♪ ♬If you didn't care for Arturo in the first book, you will absolutely have a change of heart after reading the second. Ms. Palmer does a wonderful job of not only showing his transformation as he experiences a reawakening throughout this book, but also making it believable. He professes his sorrow over the way he treated her, but thankfully she remains doubtful. Instead, the relationship between the two begins to slowly repair as they work together to save Quinn's brother Zach and Vamp City. Along the way, Arturo begins to realize just how dark he'd gone. He now worries others he cares for in VC have gone too far to come back when and if they are able to save the city.
She was sunshine and light, strength and vulnerability. And she'd begun to awaken his dormant honor, igniting within him emotions he hadn't even realized had died ...
For those who enjoy the darker side of the paranormal, this is a must-read! Ms. Palmer's characters are as complex (side characters included) as the gritty and unique world she has created. I'm super anxious for book 3, especially since this book ends at the start of a life-or-death mission!
The author's website offers information about Vamp City and a FAQ page for the series.
June 22, 2013
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
If you haven't already read the Vamp City series by Pamela Palmer yet, let me appeal to your curiosity and intrigue. Vamp City is set in an alternate reality Washington, D.C. filled with vampires, werewolves, sorcerers, and Fae. The city was created in 1870 by a very powerful wizard named Phineas Blackstone but is now experiencing a magical loss and the powers that be firmly believe that Quinn Lennox can, and will be their savior even if it kills her or them in the end.
There are two kinds of vampires in Vamp City: Rippers, and Emoras. Rippers feed on human blood, while Emora's feed on blood and emotions like pain, fear, and pleasure. Oh, and there's Lots and Lots of pleasure for those who expect smexy scenes from your novels. A Kiss of Blood is, in my humble opinion, much tamer in nature than the first book A Blood Seduction but no so much when it comes to smexy scenes. That book was filled with abuse, rape, and torture and nearly turned me away from the series.
As I mentioned, Quinn Lennox is the stories protagonist, who, along with her half-brother Zack, stumbled accidentally into Vampire City in A Blood Seduction and nothing has been the same since for either character. Quinn has reluctantly come to terms with the fact that she's a sorceress with unknown abilities and may actually be Vamp City's savior even though she hates the place and would not mind seeing it die a slow and painful death. She actually grows as a character in A Kiss of Blood and becomes someone you can honestly follow and not want to throttle.
Although Quinn has made it her mission NOT to return to Vamp City, when Zack ends up sick with what is thought to be magic illness, she realizes that she doesn't have a whole lot of choices at her disposal in curing Zack other than returning and attempting to help save Vamp City from its imminent demise. Especially when Arturo Mazza, the centuries old Italian Vampire who used her, lied to her, abused her, betrayed her, and gave her to his psychotic master Cristoff Gonzaga to further torture and abuse, refuses to let her go and may have found himself irrevocably drawn to Quinn like a moth to a flame.
It's true that Quinn is still stubborn and untrustworthy especially towards the vampires who have done nothing but turned her world upside down. But, in the end, she eventually learns how to trust Micah, Kassius, and maybe even Arturo. The vampires have, in essence, put their very lives in her hands, and it's up to Quinn to figure out her powers, save her brothers life, and save Vamp City before Cristoff can reign hell down upon all of them.
If you haven't already read A Blood Seduction and would like to read A Kiss of Blood first, I honestly don't see a problem with that idea. Palmer ties both series together really well with a summary of what happened previously, and why Quinn wants nothing to do with Arturo or any other vampire for that matter.
By reading A Kiss of Blood, I was actually hoping for more information on the whereabouts of Zack's best friend Lily Wang who disappeared before Quinn & Zack stumbled their way into Vamp City. Palmer does her best to incorporate Lily into this story which I appreciated, but then leaves yet more questions about her safety and survivability in Vamp City’s hostile environment that feasts on Humans, and enslaves them so that they never end up leaving the city.
In my opinion, A Kiss of Blood is a good story but it could have been better. I didn't rate it higher because the story line really doesn't move forward all that much from A Blood Seduction. Quinn is still being hunted by Cristoff. Lily is still far away from being rescued by Zack or Arturo. Vamp City is still in danger from being destroyed. Humans, especially children, are still finding their way into Vamp City and extreme danger. The only difference is that more characters who are willing to work with Quinn are introduced, and there are surprises in regards to Quinn and Zack's descendants which hopefully will be discussed further in the next installment.
*Recvd via Edelweiss 03/20/2013* Expected publication: June 25th 2013 by Avon
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
If you haven't already read the Vamp City series by Pamela Palmer yet, let me appeal to your curiosity and intrigue. Vamp City is set in an alternate reality Washington, D.C. filled with vampires, werewolves, sorcerers, and Fae. The city was created in 1870 by a very powerful wizard named Phineas Blackstone but is now experiencing a magical loss and the powers that be firmly believe that Quinn Lennox can, and will be their savior even if it kills her or them in the end.
There are two kinds of vampires in Vamp City: Rippers, and Emoras. Rippers feed on human blood, while Emora's feed on blood and emotions like pain, fear, and pleasure. Oh, and there's Lots and Lots of pleasure for those who expect smexy scenes from your novels. A Kiss of Blood is, in my humble opinion, much tamer in nature than the first book A Blood Seduction but no so much when it comes to smexy scenes. That book was filled with abuse, rape, and torture and nearly turned me away from the series.
As I mentioned, Quinn Lennox is the stories protagonist, who, along with her half-brother Zack, stumbled accidentally into Vampire City in A Blood Seduction and nothing has been the same since for either character. Quinn has reluctantly come to terms with the fact that she's a sorceress with unknown abilities and may actually be Vamp City's savior even though she hates the place and would not mind seeing it die a slow and painful death. She actually grows as a character in A Kiss of Blood and becomes someone you can honestly follow and not want to throttle.
Although Quinn has made it her mission NOT to return to Vamp City, when Zack ends up sick with what is thought to be magic illness, she realizes that she doesn't have a whole lot of choices at her disposal in curing Zack other than returning and attempting to help save Vamp City from its imminent demise. Especially when Arturo Mazza, the centuries old Italian Vampire who used her, lied to her, abused her, betrayed her, and gave her to his psychotic master Cristoff Gonzaga to further torture and abuse, refuses to let her go and may have found himself irrevocably drawn to Quinn like a moth to a flame.
It's true that Quinn is still stubborn and untrustworthy especially towards the vampires who have done nothing but turned her world upside down. But, in the end, she eventually learns how to trust Micah, Kassius, and maybe even Arturo. The vampires have, in essence, put their very lives in her hands, and it's up to Quinn to figure out her powers, save her brothers life, and save Vamp City before Cristoff can reign hell down upon all of them.
If you haven't already read A Blood Seduction and would like to read A Kiss of Blood first, I honestly don't see a problem with that idea. Palmer ties both series together really well with a summary of what happened previously, and why Quinn wants nothing to do with Arturo or any other vampire for that matter.
By reading A Kiss of Blood, I was actually hoping for more information on the whereabouts of Zack's best friend Lily Wang who disappeared before Quinn & Zack stumbled their way into Vamp City. Palmer does her best to incorporate Lily into this story which I appreciated, but then leaves yet more questions about her safety and survivability in Vamp City’s hostile environment that feasts on Humans, and enslaves them so that they never end up leaving the city.
In my opinion, A Kiss of Blood is a good story but it could have been better. I didn't rate it higher because the story line really doesn't move forward all that much from A Blood Seduction. Quinn is still being hunted by Cristoff. Lily is still far away from being rescued by Zack or Arturo. Vamp City is still in danger from being destroyed. Humans, especially children, are still finding their way into Vamp City and extreme danger. The only difference is that more characters who are willing to work with Quinn are introduced, and there are surprises in regards to Quinn and Zack's descendants which hopefully will be discussed further in the next installment.
*Recvd via Edelweiss 03/20/2013* Expected publication: June 25th 2013 by Avon
June 27, 2013
Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..
When Quinn escaped Vamp City, she had hoped to never return. But deep down she knew that was only a pipe dream as the vamps would never let her go since she is the only one who can save the crumbling city. This was only further cemented when her brother falls ill and must return to the city before the lack of magic consumes him. Despite her every instinct telling her not to help the vamps renew the magic hold their world together, now that her brother's fate is tied to that very magic, she doesn't have a choice. Further complicating matters is her fierce attraction to Arturo, the vampire who betrayed her. Despite knowing she can't trust him, she know it won't be long before her heart won't listen, and once again she'll fall under his spell.
Can I just say how much I love the dynamic between Quinn and Arturo? I mean every look, every touch, just smoulders right off the page. And yet, they are far from the perfect couple, if you could even call them that. Neither one is willing to give into each other and accept the relationship. They each have their own iron will, and their reasons for trying to keep themselves apart, but it's rather futile, as they fail and fail. There's just something about the pair of them together that seems right despite her not being able to fully accept him, and his terrible tendency to betray her. I will say that he made major headway I redeeming himself in A KISS OF BLOOD, especially as the reasoning behind his previous lack of emotion was revealed. That being said, it will still take some time for Quinn to be able to really open up and let him in, but I can't wait to see it.
Everything about the world in A KISS OF BLOOD was just as enthralling as the first installment, and yet it didn't seem quite so dark. In all honesty it really surprised me how much I enjoyed the first installment due to its darkness and utter lack of hope, but somehow it worked. That being said, I was rather pleased while reading this book as I realized it wasn't going to be quite so dark. Don't get me wrong, the threats are very real, and the stakes are just as high, but this time around I had hope. I think a lot of that was in part due to Arturo's turn around and fierce protectiveness of her, so I felt like she had more of a fighting chance this go round. But the biggest change I have to say is the amount of allies she had surrounding and helping her. It just turned the tides and made both her and I realize that despite prior appearances, not everyone supernatural in vamp city is a monster. Some are genuinely good guys, and it really helped give me that light at the end of the tunnel I needed.
We're only two books into the Vamp City series, and already it's shaping up to be one of my favorites. It has all the action and danger you could want plus an incredible amount of sexual tension and steamy moments that boil right off the page. Honestly this kind of hybrid between paranormal romance and urban fantasy is something I would love to see more of as it isn't something often found. Trust me, if you enjoy a kick ass world, with a stellar plot, great characters, and more than a little steam, then A KISS OF BLOOD is one you won't want to miss.
When Quinn escaped Vamp City, she had hoped to never return. But deep down she knew that was only a pipe dream as the vamps would never let her go since she is the only one who can save the crumbling city. This was only further cemented when her brother falls ill and must return to the city before the lack of magic consumes him. Despite her every instinct telling her not to help the vamps renew the magic hold their world together, now that her brother's fate is tied to that very magic, she doesn't have a choice. Further complicating matters is her fierce attraction to Arturo, the vampire who betrayed her. Despite knowing she can't trust him, she know it won't be long before her heart won't listen, and once again she'll fall under his spell.
Can I just say how much I love the dynamic between Quinn and Arturo? I mean every look, every touch, just smoulders right off the page. And yet, they are far from the perfect couple, if you could even call them that. Neither one is willing to give into each other and accept the relationship. They each have their own iron will, and their reasons for trying to keep themselves apart, but it's rather futile, as they fail and fail. There's just something about the pair of them together that seems right despite her not being able to fully accept him, and his terrible tendency to betray her. I will say that he made major headway I redeeming himself in A KISS OF BLOOD, especially as the reasoning behind his previous lack of emotion was revealed. That being said, it will still take some time for Quinn to be able to really open up and let him in, but I can't wait to see it.
Everything about the world in A KISS OF BLOOD was just as enthralling as the first installment, and yet it didn't seem quite so dark. In all honesty it really surprised me how much I enjoyed the first installment due to its darkness and utter lack of hope, but somehow it worked. That being said, I was rather pleased while reading this book as I realized it wasn't going to be quite so dark. Don't get me wrong, the threats are very real, and the stakes are just as high, but this time around I had hope. I think a lot of that was in part due to Arturo's turn around and fierce protectiveness of her, so I felt like she had more of a fighting chance this go round. But the biggest change I have to say is the amount of allies she had surrounding and helping her. It just turned the tides and made both her and I realize that despite prior appearances, not everyone supernatural in vamp city is a monster. Some are genuinely good guys, and it really helped give me that light at the end of the tunnel I needed.
We're only two books into the Vamp City series, and already it's shaping up to be one of my favorites. It has all the action and danger you could want plus an incredible amount of sexual tension and steamy moments that boil right off the page. Honestly this kind of hybrid between paranormal romance and urban fantasy is something I would love to see more of as it isn't something often found. Trust me, if you enjoy a kick ass world, with a stellar plot, great characters, and more than a little steam, then A KISS OF BLOOD is one you won't want to miss.
June 12, 2013
Last year I had the pleasure of reading a book that had it not been for the author I never would have picked it up. I love Pamela Palmer books so I of course had to read her Vamp City series. There are so many awesomes going on in this world. The biggest draw for me is the dark gritty violence. The Diva loves some twisted evil. In the second installment of the Vamp City series readers are treated to a different side of V.C. It is still dark, but we get to see view points from others who are not happy with the status quo.
Quinn has not been back in her apartment for very long before her troubles come banging down her door, literally. Being the intelligent woman that she is she had started preparing for the inevitable. Her preparations were not enough, conveniently she has a rescuer near but she still gets swept up into the drama of the crumbling magic. That failing magic is affecting the only thing in the world that she cares about and true to herself she will stop at nothing to see her brother safe. I was utterly floored at just how far she is willing to go. I do love the tough girl that is Quinn Lennox.
I was enjoying my dislike of the sexy Jeep driving anti-hero Arturo. He did so many unforgivable and despicable things to Quinn in A Blood Seduction. He did not deserve to breath the same air as her. In a sense Quinn gets an odd form of vengeance on him though. She does something to him that I never saw coming and it made me like him and not just a little like. Arturo is different, but he is also still very much the same. I enjoyed this. I don’t like my hero’s to go through a major personality change. Pamela did something with him that kept his priorities the same, while making him easier to like.
A Kiss of Blood does have a little more romance to it. The focal is still this twisted version of Washington D.C. and the failing magic that will kill many if it is not prevented. I love Quinn and I want her to finally catch a break in life and find a happy place for her. It seems like every step she moves forward she is shoved five steps back by her life. She does make some progress in the fixing her life, but it all just makes me want the next book now. Needless to say I can’t wait to see how Quinn is going to handle her new solution to the V.C. issue.
Quinn has not been back in her apartment for very long before her troubles come banging down her door, literally. Being the intelligent woman that she is she had started preparing for the inevitable. Her preparations were not enough, conveniently she has a rescuer near but she still gets swept up into the drama of the crumbling magic. That failing magic is affecting the only thing in the world that she cares about and true to herself she will stop at nothing to see her brother safe. I was utterly floored at just how far she is willing to go. I do love the tough girl that is Quinn Lennox.
I was enjoying my dislike of the sexy Jeep driving anti-hero Arturo. He did so many unforgivable and despicable things to Quinn in A Blood Seduction. He did not deserve to breath the same air as her. In a sense Quinn gets an odd form of vengeance on him though. She does something to him that I never saw coming and it made me like him and not just a little like. Arturo is different, but he is also still very much the same. I enjoyed this. I don’t like my hero’s to go through a major personality change. Pamela did something with him that kept his priorities the same, while making him easier to like.
A Kiss of Blood does have a little more romance to it. The focal is still this twisted version of Washington D.C. and the failing magic that will kill many if it is not prevented. I love Quinn and I want her to finally catch a break in life and find a happy place for her. It seems like every step she moves forward she is shoved five steps back by her life. She does make some progress in the fixing her life, but it all just makes me want the next book now. Needless to say I can’t wait to see how Quinn is going to handle her new solution to the V.C. issue.
June 20, 2013
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
I was a tad disappointing by decidedly less dark story in A KISS OF BLOOD. Part of what made A BLOOD SEDUCTION so intoxicating was the unbridled ferocity of it’s characters and world. Vamp City is literally a place were vampires rule, and these vampires feed on more than just blood. Emotions like fear, pain, and pleasure are sought after with equal abandon. The result was terrifying and tantalizing in turn. In A KISS OF BLOOD, all those depraved and delicious moments are somewhat sanitized.
The Arturo from the first book was half villain, half hero, and I don’t think he always knew which side of him would prevail in any situation. He was the kind of character who evoked equal parts lust and loathing (a trembling combination). I was a little let down by the decidedly more noble vampire in this sequel. Instead of taking what he wanted and making no apologies fore his baser desires, he spends the whole book trying to prove himself to Quinn. I still liked him, but he became much more like a standard PNR hero than the intoxicating bastard from the debut.
On the plus side, Vamp City is still one brutal place. Vampires, werewolves, demons, and fae are all pretty terrifying most of the time (especially fear vampire Cristoff and pleasure vampire Fabian). Nothing that happens here is safe or easy. These vampires know no restraint and the consequences are sometimes shocking. Don’t expect an HEA in this one (is that even possible in Vamp City?), but Pamela Palmer says there will be at least two, possibly three more books in the Vamp City series. I’ll certainly be back, hoping for a darker story next time, but all the same excitement and danger that I’ve enjoyed so far.
Sexual Content:
Sex scenes, a briefly described orgy, attempted rape
I was a tad disappointing by decidedly less dark story in A KISS OF BLOOD. Part of what made A BLOOD SEDUCTION so intoxicating was the unbridled ferocity of it’s characters and world. Vamp City is literally a place were vampires rule, and these vampires feed on more than just blood. Emotions like fear, pain, and pleasure are sought after with equal abandon. The result was terrifying and tantalizing in turn. In A KISS OF BLOOD, all those depraved and delicious moments are somewhat sanitized.
The Arturo from the first book was half villain, half hero, and I don’t think he always knew which side of him would prevail in any situation. He was the kind of character who evoked equal parts lust and loathing (a trembling combination). I was a little let down by the decidedly more noble vampire in this sequel. Instead of taking what he wanted and making no apologies fore his baser desires, he spends the whole book trying to prove himself to Quinn. I still liked him, but he became much more like a standard PNR hero than the intoxicating bastard from the debut.
On the plus side, Vamp City is still one brutal place. Vampires, werewolves, demons, and fae are all pretty terrifying most of the time (especially fear vampire Cristoff and pleasure vampire Fabian). Nothing that happens here is safe or easy. These vampires know no restraint and the consequences are sometimes shocking. Don’t expect an HEA in this one (is that even possible in Vamp City?), but Pamela Palmer says there will be at least two, possibly three more books in the Vamp City series. I’ll certainly be back, hoping for a darker story next time, but all the same excitement and danger that I’ve enjoyed so far.
Sexual Content:
Sex scenes, a briefly described orgy, attempted rape
November 29, 2025
Quinn Lennox vowed to never return to Vamp City but the only way to save her brother is for her to renew the magic. Focusing on saving her brother, Quinn returns to face the horrors of a world failing and its inhabitants deteriorating.
Arturo has been keeping a close watch on Quinn, but when they are reunited the distrust of his betrayal is almost too much. With her brother's life on the line, Quinn must learn to trust those around her, including Arturo.
Discovering a world with more worth saving, finding allies in unlikely places, and making promises she must keep or die trying, Quinn is about to face the challenge that could cost her her life.
A Kiss of Blood is an intriguing and exciting story of parallel, paranormal world on the brink of destruction. The story is fast-paced and suspense-filled. I did find the ending anticlimactic, of course, holding us till the next installment...but somewhat disappointing. I liked, leaning toward really liked this story ,so I'm giving A Kiss of Blood 3.5 stars.
I received this ARC copy of A Kiss of Blood from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication June 25, 2013.
Arturo has been keeping a close watch on Quinn, but when they are reunited the distrust of his betrayal is almost too much. With her brother's life on the line, Quinn must learn to trust those around her, including Arturo.
Discovering a world with more worth saving, finding allies in unlikely places, and making promises she must keep or die trying, Quinn is about to face the challenge that could cost her her life.
A Kiss of Blood is an intriguing and exciting story of parallel, paranormal world on the brink of destruction. The story is fast-paced and suspense-filled. I did find the ending anticlimactic, of course, holding us till the next installment...but somewhat disappointing. I liked, leaning toward really liked this story ,so I'm giving A Kiss of Blood 3.5 stars.
I received this ARC copy of A Kiss of Blood from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication June 25, 2013.
April 14, 2014
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A dark urban fantasy that toes the line towards paranormal romance. A Kiss of Blood has the feel of a filler novel and some readers may not like the complete 180 of a characters actions.
Opening Sentence: F our more days until Quinn Lennox’s life, as she knew it, was over.
The Review:
A Kiss of Blood is the sequel to Pamela Palmer’s A Blood Seduction and this novel felt almost completely opposite of its predecessor. There are two big reasons why. One is that Arturo, the main love interest to Quinn, was completely evil in the first novel. He had no problem tossing Quinn away even with his intense interest in her. He went from being almost the ultimate bad boy to a puppy dog, hanging on to Quinn’s every word and promising to make up for his past sins so he could be the man she loved in every way. The second is that Vamp City is a terrifying and cruel world and the vampires let you know it on almost every page. In A Kiss of Blood they let you know how bad it is all the time but the cruelty isn’t seen until closer to the end so the extreme peril that Quinn is in doesn’t feel materialized until then.
This series toes the line between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. The same main characters are involved in the storyline, switching between Quinn and Arturo’s points of view. Their romance and attraction for each other is very apparent but will these characters have a happy-ever-after in this world? Lily, another character stuck in Vamp City, shows up every once in a while to update readers on her progress through the terrible Vamp City world.
Absolutely do not pick up A Kiss of Blood unless you have read A Blood Seduction or you will be lost. Only a few weeks have passed since Quinn escaped Vamp City with her brother Zach after being trapped there. Quinn is trying to move on but she is having a hard time doing it when she keeps seeing people fall into the death trap that is Vamp City with no help or rescue coming. Then Zach is progressively getting worse with his illness and Quinn is pretty sure it is related to the fact that Vamp City is dying and the magic is somehow tied into her brother. Knowing that she has to go back and renew the magic to restore Vamp City, Quinn gives in and returns under the stipulation that she will be no one’s slave (and hopefully not be tortured).
Quinn grows up a lot in this novel. She still wants to rescue everyone but this time she is more careful about it, knowing she can’t get caught if she wants to save her brother’s life. She makes some bold decisions which in turn help her learn more about the magic she has inside of her. When Quinn is confronted with her true nature, she breaks down, but it gives her the resolve she needs in order to continue with her mission.
Arturo is a completely different character in thought and action. He is such a hard character to grasp. While I didn’t completely like him from the first novel since he seemed like such a heartless bastard, I wasn’t quite sure what to think when he kept following Quinn like a puppy dog and asking for her forgiveness and her love. His motives for not outing himself and saving Quinn are quite reasonable in this setting but I’m still not quite sure I like the complete 180 of his character.
I was so completely engrossed with the storyline to A Kiss of Blood that the abrupt ending startled me. I saw the page numbers coming to a close but I felt the real story/battle was coming but it didn’t. Sadly, I have to wait for the next novel to find out what’s next for Quinn, Arturo, Zach and the rest of the gang. After thinking about it, A Kiss of Blood really felt like a filler novel helping to bridge a gap to an inevitable terrible showdown. A few major details were revealed but the real questions will be answered (I hope!) when the next novel comes out.
Overall, I’m still a fan of Pamela Palmer’s writing style and this incredibly dark world that she has created. I will pick up a copy of the next book because if the way this one ended is any indication of the action we will see in the upcoming title, there will be a lot of craziness going on.
Notable Scene:
Suddenly, her back was up against the wall, her body pinned by that of a furious vampire.
“It is my business. You are my business.” Arturo’s enunciation was slow and cold and dangerously precise. “You are mine, Quinn Lennox. Mine.”
She gaped at him, speechless. “I’m not your slave. I’ve never been your slave, and I’m never going to be!”
“Not my slave.” At her words, at her vehemence, his anger seemed to ease. He gripped her jaw with long, cool fingers. She tried to jerk away, but he held her fast. His voice lowered, softened. “You are mine, cara. The sunshine that warms my flesh. My sunlight.” His hold on her jaw tightened, though not unduly so. His expression grew tormented. “Do you have any idea how much I want you? Yet I do not push you. You have lost your faith in me. You are angry with me for handing you over to Cristoff and, dio Quinn, you have a right to be.”
He released her suddenly, turning away, running a hand through his hair. “The things I saw today . . .” His voice was low with anguish. “I have watched his atrocities for months, years, and felt too little. Felt nothing.”
Quinn stared at him, her own anger slipping away as she realized how shaken he really was. This wasn’t about Neo. This was about Cristoff.
“What happened at Gonzaga Castle this morning, Arturo?” she asked quietly. Not that she really wanted to know. She didn’t.
When he didn’t answer, she reached for him, sliding her hand down his back. She felt him tense and shudder. Slowly, he turned back to face her, his expression revealing little, but his eyes burning.
He took her face in his hands. “He will never touch you again. I vow it.” His shoulders sank, his forehead tipping against hers. “Mio dio. You’ve changed me, cara. I cannot decide if I should thank you or hate you for it.”
FTC Advisory: Avon/HarperCollins provided me with a copy of A Kiss of Blood. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A dark urban fantasy that toes the line towards paranormal romance. A Kiss of Blood has the feel of a filler novel and some readers may not like the complete 180 of a characters actions.
Opening Sentence: F our more days until Quinn Lennox’s life, as she knew it, was over.
The Review:
A Kiss of Blood is the sequel to Pamela Palmer’s A Blood Seduction and this novel felt almost completely opposite of its predecessor. There are two big reasons why. One is that Arturo, the main love interest to Quinn, was completely evil in the first novel. He had no problem tossing Quinn away even with his intense interest in her. He went from being almost the ultimate bad boy to a puppy dog, hanging on to Quinn’s every word and promising to make up for his past sins so he could be the man she loved in every way. The second is that Vamp City is a terrifying and cruel world and the vampires let you know it on almost every page. In A Kiss of Blood they let you know how bad it is all the time but the cruelty isn’t seen until closer to the end so the extreme peril that Quinn is in doesn’t feel materialized until then.
This series toes the line between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. The same main characters are involved in the storyline, switching between Quinn and Arturo’s points of view. Their romance and attraction for each other is very apparent but will these characters have a happy-ever-after in this world? Lily, another character stuck in Vamp City, shows up every once in a while to update readers on her progress through the terrible Vamp City world.
Absolutely do not pick up A Kiss of Blood unless you have read A Blood Seduction or you will be lost. Only a few weeks have passed since Quinn escaped Vamp City with her brother Zach after being trapped there. Quinn is trying to move on but she is having a hard time doing it when she keeps seeing people fall into the death trap that is Vamp City with no help or rescue coming. Then Zach is progressively getting worse with his illness and Quinn is pretty sure it is related to the fact that Vamp City is dying and the magic is somehow tied into her brother. Knowing that she has to go back and renew the magic to restore Vamp City, Quinn gives in and returns under the stipulation that she will be no one’s slave (and hopefully not be tortured).
Quinn grows up a lot in this novel. She still wants to rescue everyone but this time she is more careful about it, knowing she can’t get caught if she wants to save her brother’s life. She makes some bold decisions which in turn help her learn more about the magic she has inside of her. When Quinn is confronted with her true nature, she breaks down, but it gives her the resolve she needs in order to continue with her mission.
Arturo is a completely different character in thought and action. He is such a hard character to grasp. While I didn’t completely like him from the first novel since he seemed like such a heartless bastard, I wasn’t quite sure what to think when he kept following Quinn like a puppy dog and asking for her forgiveness and her love. His motives for not outing himself and saving Quinn are quite reasonable in this setting but I’m still not quite sure I like the complete 180 of his character.
I was so completely engrossed with the storyline to A Kiss of Blood that the abrupt ending startled me. I saw the page numbers coming to a close but I felt the real story/battle was coming but it didn’t. Sadly, I have to wait for the next novel to find out what’s next for Quinn, Arturo, Zach and the rest of the gang. After thinking about it, A Kiss of Blood really felt like a filler novel helping to bridge a gap to an inevitable terrible showdown. A few major details were revealed but the real questions will be answered (I hope!) when the next novel comes out.
Overall, I’m still a fan of Pamela Palmer’s writing style and this incredibly dark world that she has created. I will pick up a copy of the next book because if the way this one ended is any indication of the action we will see in the upcoming title, there will be a lot of craziness going on.
Notable Scene:
Suddenly, her back was up against the wall, her body pinned by that of a furious vampire.
“It is my business. You are my business.” Arturo’s enunciation was slow and cold and dangerously precise. “You are mine, Quinn Lennox. Mine.”
She gaped at him, speechless. “I’m not your slave. I’ve never been your slave, and I’m never going to be!”
“Not my slave.” At her words, at her vehemence, his anger seemed to ease. He gripped her jaw with long, cool fingers. She tried to jerk away, but he held her fast. His voice lowered, softened. “You are mine, cara. The sunshine that warms my flesh. My sunlight.” His hold on her jaw tightened, though not unduly so. His expression grew tormented. “Do you have any idea how much I want you? Yet I do not push you. You have lost your faith in me. You are angry with me for handing you over to Cristoff and, dio Quinn, you have a right to be.”
He released her suddenly, turning away, running a hand through his hair. “The things I saw today . . .” His voice was low with anguish. “I have watched his atrocities for months, years, and felt too little. Felt nothing.”
Quinn stared at him, her own anger slipping away as she realized how shaken he really was. This wasn’t about Neo. This was about Cristoff.
“What happened at Gonzaga Castle this morning, Arturo?” she asked quietly. Not that she really wanted to know. She didn’t.
When he didn’t answer, she reached for him, sliding her hand down his back. She felt him tense and shudder. Slowly, he turned back to face her, his expression revealing little, but his eyes burning.
He took her face in his hands. “He will never touch you again. I vow it.” His shoulders sank, his forehead tipping against hers. “Mio dio. You’ve changed me, cara. I cannot decide if I should thank you or hate you for it.”
FTC Advisory: Avon/HarperCollins provided me with a copy of A Kiss of Blood. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
June 20, 2013
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
The first installment in this series was a little too dark for my tastes so I was reluctant to continue reading. I’m all for gore but rape and abusive relationships are just not things that I want in my fantasy world. However, upon hearing that the love interest was supposed to grow over the course of five books I rationalized that the 2nd novel couldn’t possibly be any darker than the first. Right? As luck would have it, my theory proved true. Quinn and Arturo actually work together in A Kiss of Blood and, she doesn’t get captured or tortured once! I enjoyed the world-building, Pamela Palmer’s supes are unique and complex; the plot’s life-or-death urgency is gripping and the character development is most definitely impressive. I didn’t like how this series began but I do like where it’s headed.
I was grateful that Palmer revisited many of the key components that make up her Vamp City universe because I needed a refresher on the differences between Emora and Ripper vamps, who’s affected by VC’s magic, and the various feeder types. There are definitely a lot of rules in this world but that’s also part of its appeal. The plot’s fast paced and has a prevalent sense of impending doom which makes the book difficult to put down. Vamp City and Zack’s life are both on the line so everyone has something to lose. Quinn and Arturo’s priorities do clash at times but overall they are a team and I couldn’t be happier. I don’t expect the main couple’s relationship to be obstacle free but I do expect them to not stab each other in the back. I’m just sayin’.
Arturo apologizes countless times to Quinn for his actions in A Blood Seduction which I found appropriate considering the level of douchebag-ness he demonstrated in the first installment. Not only does he have to earn her forgiveness but many readers’ as well I suspect, including mine. He made great strides but there is still more work to be done. I’ve really enjoyed Quinn’s progression as a character so far; I can understand Palmer wanting her to hit rock bottom before her upward climb to heroine status began but the way she actually did it still doesn’t sit right with me. That being said, Quinn’s come a long way in two books and I for one can’t wait to see her kick some vampire ass!
There’s an interesting little side story developing with Lily and her mysterious vamp savior (?) and I look forward to learning more. The ending was a tad rushed in my opinion but as a whole this book satisfied my Urban Fantasy needs. A Kiss of Blood packs a powerful punch of blood, sex and violence that you won’t want to miss.
The first installment in this series was a little too dark for my tastes so I was reluctant to continue reading. I’m all for gore but rape and abusive relationships are just not things that I want in my fantasy world. However, upon hearing that the love interest was supposed to grow over the course of five books I rationalized that the 2nd novel couldn’t possibly be any darker than the first. Right? As luck would have it, my theory proved true. Quinn and Arturo actually work together in A Kiss of Blood and, she doesn’t get captured or tortured once! I enjoyed the world-building, Pamela Palmer’s supes are unique and complex; the plot’s life-or-death urgency is gripping and the character development is most definitely impressive. I didn’t like how this series began but I do like where it’s headed.
I was grateful that Palmer revisited many of the key components that make up her Vamp City universe because I needed a refresher on the differences between Emora and Ripper vamps, who’s affected by VC’s magic, and the various feeder types. There are definitely a lot of rules in this world but that’s also part of its appeal. The plot’s fast paced and has a prevalent sense of impending doom which makes the book difficult to put down. Vamp City and Zack’s life are both on the line so everyone has something to lose. Quinn and Arturo’s priorities do clash at times but overall they are a team and I couldn’t be happier. I don’t expect the main couple’s relationship to be obstacle free but I do expect them to not stab each other in the back. I’m just sayin’.
Arturo apologizes countless times to Quinn for his actions in A Blood Seduction which I found appropriate considering the level of douchebag-ness he demonstrated in the first installment. Not only does he have to earn her forgiveness but many readers’ as well I suspect, including mine. He made great strides but there is still more work to be done. I’ve really enjoyed Quinn’s progression as a character so far; I can understand Palmer wanting her to hit rock bottom before her upward climb to heroine status began but the way she actually did it still doesn’t sit right with me. That being said, Quinn’s come a long way in two books and I for one can’t wait to see her kick some vampire ass!
There’s an interesting little side story developing with Lily and her mysterious vamp savior (?) and I look forward to learning more. The ending was a tad rushed in my opinion but as a whole this book satisfied my Urban Fantasy needs. A Kiss of Blood packs a powerful punch of blood, sex and violence that you won’t want to miss.
June 4, 2013
After book one, A Blood Seduction, I was not sure I would bother with this book. The hero, Arturo, was such an epic douchebag that by the end of the book I was wanting to write myself into it so I could beat the shit out of him. He was horrible to Quinn and turned on her at the most inopportune times. I knew going into this one that Arturo would have some major ass kissing to do for me to warm back up to him. In the end, he won me back over….mostly. I’m still waiting for the other shoe to drop and perhaps so is Quinn.
Leaving VC with her brother was all Quinn wanted, but when they arrive home it’s anything but smooth sailing when his health takes a turn for the worse. Now forced back into VC to try and save her brother from the failing magic of that world Quinn must learn how to harness and possess her new found magical abilities. The world building that I enjoyed in book one continued in A Kiss Of Blood as readers are introduced to an array of new supernatural creatures who both help and hinder Quinn’s journey in trying to save her brother and this new found world that houses both evil and friends. This is a dark world where beings who were once good have succumbed to the most evil part of themselves as they slowly go crazy within the confines of their own mind. Arturo has begun to notice the descent his own personality as taken when Quinn shows him the way back to the light. Being with her frees him from the darkness and he decides that is more important then the loyalty he feels to others who want to use Quinn for their own selfish purposes.
I really enjoyed how Quinn seemed to come into her own more. In book one she often annoyed me when she’d try to help herself simply because she wasn’t strong enough or smart enough to outwit the vampires. Now she is starting to learn ways to help herself, unleash the magic that’s inside her and basically be able to not rely entirely on Arturo to get her out of everything. She even manages to save him in this one and I love when a heroine is able to do that. She’s evolving into a heroine I want to read about. She’s learning and growing and that has to happen to keep me interested.
I will definitely continue on with this series! Arturo won me back with his selflessness and dedication to Quinn in the face of great consequences to himself. I hope Quinn continues to make good choices and learn from her mistakes. With the help of her brother I think they will be a fearsome duo once they both unlock the magic that runs through their veins.
A Kiss Of Blood was an excellent follow up to a book that left me screaming….urban fantasy and paranormal romance readers alike will enjoy this one. Pamela Palmer is a master of world building and story execution!
I give A Kiss of Blood by Pamela Palmer 4.50 stars!
Leaving VC with her brother was all Quinn wanted, but when they arrive home it’s anything but smooth sailing when his health takes a turn for the worse. Now forced back into VC to try and save her brother from the failing magic of that world Quinn must learn how to harness and possess her new found magical abilities. The world building that I enjoyed in book one continued in A Kiss Of Blood as readers are introduced to an array of new supernatural creatures who both help and hinder Quinn’s journey in trying to save her brother and this new found world that houses both evil and friends. This is a dark world where beings who were once good have succumbed to the most evil part of themselves as they slowly go crazy within the confines of their own mind. Arturo has begun to notice the descent his own personality as taken when Quinn shows him the way back to the light. Being with her frees him from the darkness and he decides that is more important then the loyalty he feels to others who want to use Quinn for their own selfish purposes.
I really enjoyed how Quinn seemed to come into her own more. In book one she often annoyed me when she’d try to help herself simply because she wasn’t strong enough or smart enough to outwit the vampires. Now she is starting to learn ways to help herself, unleash the magic that’s inside her and basically be able to not rely entirely on Arturo to get her out of everything. She even manages to save him in this one and I love when a heroine is able to do that. She’s evolving into a heroine I want to read about. She’s learning and growing and that has to happen to keep me interested.
I will definitely continue on with this series! Arturo won me back with his selflessness and dedication to Quinn in the face of great consequences to himself. I hope Quinn continues to make good choices and learn from her mistakes. With the help of her brother I think they will be a fearsome duo once they both unlock the magic that runs through their veins.
A Kiss Of Blood was an excellent follow up to a book that left me screaming….urban fantasy and paranormal romance readers alike will enjoy this one. Pamela Palmer is a master of world building and story execution!
I give A Kiss of Blood by Pamela Palmer 4.50 stars!
May 26, 2013
Original Post:
http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...
A KISS OF BLOOD, Vamp City Two: Brothers, Lovers and Other Strangers
This really is such an interesting series. The world is dark, both literally and figuratively, and populated by creatures both good and bad - and some a bit ambiguous. But, it is well developed, though not always explicit. But it is consistent.
It is the relationship between a person who is good, but not always in the right, and one whose morality is ambiguous but sees a bigger picture that makes this series a compelling read. Compelling as in "walk around with the kindle in one hand and whatever I should be doing in the other."
Quinn doesn't seem much like the woman from the first book but she was a little less desperate and a little more naive. Now she's hard on the outside and maybe a lot harder then she was inside too. She's pissed off and she is scared. But she is also able to accept when she is wrong.
Her brother, who sometimes, in all honesty, feels like an ungrateful, obtuse jerk (I don't have a brother - is that just normal?) is sick from his interaction with magic. Quinn has to figure out how to cure him. He is sketched but there's a lot of room for his development.
Then there's Arturo Mazza, a 400 year-old vampire who conscience has been reawakened by his feelings for Quinn. This guy often finds himself between the proverbial rock and that hard place. He's a true antihero. His use of Italian endearments is one thing that bugged me in the book; it feels contrived and lends a 1980's feeling to the guy like a big mustache and a leather vest.
The relationship between Quinn and Arturo is the most important in the story. He was not such a great guy in the last book. And, a political man, he is a total pragmatist. He's also a little bit old-school. Quinn is pragmatic but not schooled in vampire politics the way Arturo is. She doesn't always see the big picture and carries way too much baggage from her past. She often is more concerned about what she sees as the most important thing, and "fairness," than she is about what will work.
Other than that, there's well developed intimacy which serves the story rather than the other way around, a lot of action, and everything is not wrapped up in a pretty little package with a bow at the end. Agh! When's the next book coming out??!!
By the way, I think the series falls halfway between Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance since it has elements of both.
Since this is just book two, it is a great time to catch up and catch on to the Vamp City series. I am giving it a HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...
A KISS OF BLOOD, Vamp City Two: Brothers, Lovers and Other Strangers
This really is such an interesting series. The world is dark, both literally and figuratively, and populated by creatures both good and bad - and some a bit ambiguous. But, it is well developed, though not always explicit. But it is consistent.
It is the relationship between a person who is good, but not always in the right, and one whose morality is ambiguous but sees a bigger picture that makes this series a compelling read. Compelling as in "walk around with the kindle in one hand and whatever I should be doing in the other."
Quinn doesn't seem much like the woman from the first book but she was a little less desperate and a little more naive. Now she's hard on the outside and maybe a lot harder then she was inside too. She's pissed off and she is scared. But she is also able to accept when she is wrong.
Her brother, who sometimes, in all honesty, feels like an ungrateful, obtuse jerk (I don't have a brother - is that just normal?) is sick from his interaction with magic. Quinn has to figure out how to cure him. He is sketched but there's a lot of room for his development.
Then there's Arturo Mazza, a 400 year-old vampire who conscience has been reawakened by his feelings for Quinn. This guy often finds himself between the proverbial rock and that hard place. He's a true antihero. His use of Italian endearments is one thing that bugged me in the book; it feels contrived and lends a 1980's feeling to the guy like a big mustache and a leather vest.
The relationship between Quinn and Arturo is the most important in the story. He was not such a great guy in the last book. And, a political man, he is a total pragmatist. He's also a little bit old-school. Quinn is pragmatic but not schooled in vampire politics the way Arturo is. She doesn't always see the big picture and carries way too much baggage from her past. She often is more concerned about what she sees as the most important thing, and "fairness," than she is about what will work.
Other than that, there's well developed intimacy which serves the story rather than the other way around, a lot of action, and everything is not wrapped up in a pretty little package with a bow at the end. Agh! When's the next book coming out??!!
By the way, I think the series falls halfway between Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance since it has elements of both.
Since this is just book two, it is a great time to catch up and catch on to the Vamp City series. I am giving it a HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
November 4, 2013
Time is running out and Vamp City is still in its path to destruction along with the Vampires and Humans that live there. Though, Quinn Lennox vowed to never go back, the only way to save her brother is to do so. If you read the last installment (Vamp City), Quinn learned that she may be the only person that can save this world. Everyone that knows of her is hoping she is the answer to saving their world including the handsome complicated vamp, Arturo.
Now, their relationship or lack of it is kind of twisted. Though it’s obvious Arturo loves her, he had not been very good to Quinn and that’s saying it lightly. However, Arturo has vowed to protect her and never hurt her, again. I love the fact that their relationship was never instant, even when the attraction was almost immediate. With Arturo’s status and relationship with his sire, Christoff, I’m not at all surprised with his past actions. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not making excuses for him but I have to give it to him, he is making amends.
And I’m glad Quinn is giving him the benefit of the doubt, making their journey to a bit more exciting. I’m sure hoping their relationship to blossom to a stronger bond. I really like Quinn, I think she is pretty courageous in taking this almost impossible task. But again, she is willing to do anything for Zack, no matter what it takes. Zack on the other hand, I’m not too sure of. His character is definitely on its way to being a strong one, physically and emotionally. However, I feel like he has an underlying turmoil that is waiting to explode. Let’s hope that it will be spent towards saving his friend Lily, who is also stuck in VC. There is a possible love in that friendship as well. Her side story is definitely intriguing. By the end of this book, it looks like she will be associated with a group that can be affect Quinn’s mission of saving this world.
A Kiss of Blood can only be described as Dark, Gritty with a hint of romance and it is one of the best from its genre. It was fast pace and it will keep you intrigued the whole time. If dark and gritty is your style, then this series is worth your time. Though is probably not needed, I do recommend reading Vamp City which is the first book of this series.
*Review copy provided by publisher
July 23, 2015
Quinn's story continues and so does her unhealthy attachment to her brother.
The two siblings are out of Vamp City, but leaving has apparently caused something to go wrong with Quinn's brother and once again, she's determined to do anything and everything she can to save him. That decision and the vampire who helped but also betrayed her, Arturo Mazza, lead them back to Vamp City and a race against time to learn how to use her sorceress powers to save that much hated city for her brother's sake.
Quinn is stubborn and ignorant, but unwavering, spending all of her time focused on her goal and not really caring about anyone but her brother.
Arturo, who has come to care for her quite a bit, does everything he can to help her and gain back her trust.
Their adventure finally leads them to the moment they were working towards and her chance to use her powers and save Vamp City, but .
Their journey doesn't end here, but they now have another objective and more plans to make in the next book of the series Of Blood and Passion.
The two siblings are out of Vamp City, but leaving has apparently caused something to go wrong with Quinn's brother and once again, she's determined to do anything and everything she can to save him. That decision and the vampire who helped but also betrayed her, Arturo Mazza, lead them back to Vamp City and a race against time to learn how to use her sorceress powers to save that much hated city for her brother's sake.
Quinn is stubborn and ignorant, but unwavering, spending all of her time focused on her goal and not really caring about anyone but her brother.
Arturo, who has come to care for her quite a bit, does everything he can to help her and gain back her trust.
Their adventure finally leads them to the moment they were working towards and her chance to use her powers and save Vamp City, but .
Their journey doesn't end here, but they now have another objective and more plans to make in the next book of the series Of Blood and Passion.
September 20, 2013
This book is so much light that the first book in the series. Although Vamp City is still as disturbing as ever, we don't really see as much of it. Instead we get a better look at the good guys this time around. Quinn is far more likeable. She doesn't whine nearly as much and she seems so much stronger than she was before. I also liked Arturo much more this time. He could see what was right and wrong and was stronger in his convictions instead of letting Cristoff dictate what he did. Although Arturo's personality seemed to do a complete 180 between books, it was really explained well and was totally believable since it all tied into the magic around Vamp City.
We got to meet Micah in this book, who I think is a great addition to the group. He gives a little more insight to Quinn of the good side of Vamp City and why even though she hates the place, it's important to try and save Vamp City while saving her brother. Arturo and Quinn are even better together this time around. It's far more consenual and I can't wait to see where things go for them given some of the revelations and growth in this book.
After the first book I wanted to read this one based more on curiosity than desire. But now I'm actually eager to read book 3. I just hope that the changes in the atmosphere and characters in this book was part of the initial plan and not in response to the reviews for book 1.
We got to meet Micah in this book, who I think is a great addition to the group. He gives a little more insight to Quinn of the good side of Vamp City and why even though she hates the place, it's important to try and save Vamp City while saving her brother. Arturo and Quinn are even better together this time around. It's far more consenual and I can't wait to see where things go for them given some of the revelations and growth in this book.
After the first book I wanted to read this one based more on curiosity than desire. But now I'm actually eager to read book 3. I just hope that the changes in the atmosphere and characters in this book was part of the initial plan and not in response to the reviews for book 1.
June 25, 2013
I thought it was better than the first, perhaps much better, but I am not a fan of the endings of these books. They read like they are a piece of a larger book and when the author hits her word count she just stops. Cliff hangers? Kind of but not the sort that makes you crazy. The kind that leaves you uncomfortably dissatisfied. The kind the feels like the book is unfinished.
I walk away from the books and instead of remembering how dark and gritty the world is, the trials and tribulations and growth of the characters, what stands out in my memory is that the book just stopped instead of ending, and I feel marginally manipulated if not blatantly.
I walk away from the books and instead of remembering how dark and gritty the world is, the trials and tribulations and growth of the characters, what stands out in my memory is that the book just stopped instead of ending, and I feel marginally manipulated if not blatantly.
September 30, 2013
This book is less grim and with more romance elements compared to the previous book. While Vamp city is still a disturbing place, the story centers more on the main characters this time around. I liked to despise Arturo but it was a nice change to make him seem more approachable. Quinn really grew as a character and seemed more secure in her role and I can even stand her brother now. I was really curious to see where the author would go from the first book being very dark and develop the DC Vamp city and try to justify why Quinn should not let it die out.
July 20, 2015
****Spoilers included****
I have to say that this was a very emotional book to me. It had its ups and downs, but with the all the turmoil ot had me hooked practically from the beginning. The relationship between Auturo and Quinn is so confusing but hot as hell. One minute they love each other, the next she's hating him. Let's not mention the little fact that her "abilities" are killing her and that every vampire is trying to catch her. All I can day is that Pamela Palmer has done it once more with an amazing series. Kudos to her once again
I have to say that this was a very emotional book to me. It had its ups and downs, but with the all the turmoil ot had me hooked practically from the beginning. The relationship between Auturo and Quinn is so confusing but hot as hell. One minute they love each other, the next she's hating him. Let's not mention the little fact that her "abilities" are killing her and that every vampire is trying to catch her. All I can day is that Pamela Palmer has done it once more with an amazing series. Kudos to her once again
September 19, 2013
4.75
Couldn't put this one down! Any issues, doubts, etc I had in book 1 are gone, forgiven, forgotten, etc! Arturo really redeemed himself in this book. I wish I had book 3 now! This is really a unique and dark series not to mention smoking hot at times. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who's tired of the insta love vampire books. This one brings a fresh take on vampires and I really enjoyed reading this one. I probably should give it 5 stars but I'm gonna leave it at 4.75.
Couldn't put this one down! Any issues, doubts, etc I had in book 1 are gone, forgiven, forgotten, etc! Arturo really redeemed himself in this book. I wish I had book 3 now! This is really a unique and dark series not to mention smoking hot at times. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who's tired of the insta love vampire books. This one brings a fresh take on vampires and I really enjoyed reading this one. I probably should give it 5 stars but I'm gonna leave it at 4.75.
June 11, 2013
OMG! This second book in the Vamp City rocks! I can't believe how much I love this series. It has complex characters that have so many facets to their personalities. I can't get enough of them. It's a must read series.
June 1, 2015
This series getting interesting. Good to know that in the dark world of VC there are still some vampires who have compassion for humans. I like the new characters Pamela Palmer has introduced. Still waiting for Quinn to renew the magic of Vampire City
May 8, 2017
GREAT STORY
I started reading Pamela Palmer with the men who were monster's. I loved those books and I love this series as well.
I started reading Pamela Palmer with the men who were monster's. I loved those books and I love this series as well.
May 21, 2017
Enjoyed the continuing story, ended on a cliffhanger.
September 26, 2017
Great continuation of the series!
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