Northern Bites

Aurora Sky: Vampire Hunter #2

by Nikki Jefford

Love bites.
Probation sucks.

Thanks to Dante’s recklessness, Aurora is now partners with Valerie: the redheaded, backstabbing vixen.

Dante is in full flirt mode. Fane’s tactics are more ruthless. Something carnal has awakened in Aurora and neither boy is helping tame her cravings.

When a member of the unit’s team is found dead, Aurora and Valerie are sent after a vampire in Sitka, but Aurora suspects the killer’s much closer to home.

Genres: Vampires, Paranormal, Fantasy, Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, New Adult, Romance

241 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 27, 2013

About the author

Reality is overrated ... which is why I write!

Vampire hunters, wolf shifters, witches, elves and Fae with humor, romance, snark and steam. I love bad boys with hearts of gold and heroines who kick ass.

To get in on the fun and adventure, visit my website for release alerts, updates, exclusive giveaways, and a free story when you become a VIP newsletter subscriber: http://nikkijefford.com/

Reviews

[Bj · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 "New Allies?" Stars for the story and narration.

Please note this is book 2 in a series that must be read in chronological order. If you have not yet read or listened to book 1, Aurora Sky, please see my review for that title instead.

Northern Bites, book 2 in the Aurora Sky: Vampire Huntress Series, continues rights where book 1 leaves off. After a mission gone awry, Aurora, and her vampire hunting partner (Dante), are under probation. Moreover, and perhaps even worse from Aurora's perspective, they have a new informant they are forced to work with and who is none other than Valerie from the first book, who helped cause Aurora's break-up from her vampire boyfriend, Fane. Can this possibly be a recipe for vampire hunting success?

Further complicating matters, when the death of another vampire hunter agent (and a high school boy with a connection to Aurora) requires them to end their probation early and go to a mission in Sitka, they are also forced to work with Jared, a recruiter in their organization. As things begin to unravel, it becomes clear that there is more to Jared than first meets the eye, and not necessarily in a good way. Can the vampire hunting team complete their mission under such circumstances? Moreover, what secrets is Jared hiding, and what's his true agenda?

But not everything in Aurora's life in Northern Bites is work. There are also several developments in Aurora's love life. Even as she misses Fane and despairs over the fact that a relationship could never work between a vampire and vampire hunter anyway, the flirtatious tension between Aurora and Dante rise to a new level. Could we possibly have a love triangle?

Further complementing this intriguing YA PNR/UF series is Em Eldridge's satisfying and pleasing narration. Having already grown to enjoy her rendition of Aurora Sky and the other players in the Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter Series from book 1, it was easy to join right into where book 1 leaves off at the beginning of Northern Bites. Moreover, I truly appreciated the remarkable consistency that Ms. Eldridge maintained between the characters' voices that appear in both books. Additionally, I think Ms. Eldridge does a fabulous job of capturing the personalities of each character in her intonations. In Northern Bites I particularly liked her fun and yet somewhat mischievous portrayal of Valerie, who plays a much larger role in this book. I also enjoyed her voicing of Jared who also plays a larger role in this book (sounding appropriately mysterious and authoritative--just what is he up to?).

I can' wait to continue to hear Aurora's, and her cast of vampire and vampire hunting friends' story, in book 3, Bad Blood. I'm particularly looking forward to see which direction her love interest takes. Personally, I'm rooting for Fane, though the obstacles in their way are certainly of the "deadly" variety.

Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received Northern Bites in return for an honest review from the author. I only wish I hadn't taken so long to review the book. Northern Bites is the second book in the Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter series which starts off just after the end of the first book. Aurora has been assigned to work with Valerie who happens to be her least favorite person after she blackmailed Aurora to break up with Fane. The whole goal is to find the vampires who killed a pizza delivery guy and get them to bite Aurora while Valerie takes them out. Since the accident Aurora’s blood causes a rare reaction to vampires knocking them out. After taking care of the vampires Aurora hopes to be partnered back up with Dante her mentor but instead Melcher sends them off on a month break.

The break will give Aurora a chance to focus on school so she can graduate in a few months and move out of her mom’s. Aurora still hasn't gotten behind the wheel of a car just being in one hasn't been easy so her mom has to drive her across town twice a day. When the idea of moving into her grandmother’s home comes up its quickly shot down. She even decides to attend the Valentines dance at Marcus’s house with Noel where she encounters Fane which spurs old feelings. When the bodies of Agent Crist and Mike a boy Aurora knew from school are found murdered by vampires. They are divided into teams and sent into the field to find the vampires. Aurora is again partnered with Valerie and Jared a recruiting agent. When things go bad will they all make it back? What happens when they learn the truth about Jared?

I like Aurora she’s a great character easy to connect with and handles being a vampire slayer well even if she stuck in cold Alaska. I’m not a huge fan of love triangles but she does have two potential love interests in this book Fane her ex and Dante her mentor. I’m personally rooting for Dante I just love his character and Fane is a broody vampire. I also really like Valerie we learn a little more about her story which I found interesting plus she reminds me of that 80’s song every time I read her name.

I've been looking forward to reading Northern Bites even more so after the new covers came out they are absolutely beautiful. I like the Aurora sky is a vampire hunter but she doesn't just kill every vampire she see just the ones who deserve it. The author has taken the vampire hunter concept and put her own unique twist creating a captivating story. The characters are easy to connect with, engaging and you can’t help cheering them on through the whole book. Northern Bites is one of those books I had a hard time putting down the story is action packed filled with killer vampires, sassy vampire hunters, sexy men and a whole lot of suspense. The author has done a brilliant job of writing a story that flows smoothly from start to finish. It’s one teens as well as adults will enjoy I know I did. I really enjoy reading Aurora’s stories and love the book. I can’t wait for the next one to see what will happen in the next book. I need to listen to the song Valerie one more time, before I post this review. I won't be calling on her though.

[AudioBookReviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABR's original Northern Bites audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Northern Bites: Vampire Hunter by Nikki Jefford is the second novel in the series called Aurora Sky: Vampire Hunter. This book continues the story of Aurora, a young adult girl, who has been drafted by a secret government agency after her near death to fight vampires. In her final year of high school, Aurora must balance being sent off on dangerous missions to figure out who murdered one of their own teammates, her confusing romantic relationship with Fane and budding relationship with Dance as well as working with a new drama queen partner.

Overall, I enjoyed this novel. As in the first novel, this series has a unique take on vampires and vampire hunters, which relies on fatal diseases and blood types. The relationship between Aurora and government agents has become more defined as Aurora has grown into a somewhat knowledgeable agent involved in multiple missions. I thought that this lent well to a more defined story as the government missions started to move story forward more. Aurora’s relationships with all of the people in her life change a lot throughout the novel and independent of the vampire story, the themes of love and betrayal stand strong throughout the novel. The vampire hunting was not as fast paced in this novel as in the first. The focus seemed to be on developing the relationships between characters more than the excitement of the action. It also was focused on developing Aurora’s feelings toward being a vampire hunter and how it might impact those around her. In general, the vampire hunting portions of the novel seemed more to be for driving the story forward. I did find the information that was revealed through the mission to find the killers of the team member to be intriguing. At the end of the novel, the focus on the relationships between the characters paid off in an emotional event that lead to Aurora’s inadvertently being forced to shift into her role of vampire hunter to protect herself. I did not see the end of the novel coming and was surprised by the outcome, which is always nice. The end of the novel was abrupt, but left the promise of more to come in mending broken relationships between lovers and friends as well as the dangers of the job.

The narration by Em Eldridge was good. I find Aurora’s voice to be a little whiny, but in general the voicing for the characters was great. The production quality was good. I would recommend this novel to anyone who likes young adult fiction and vampire stories.

Audiobook provided for review by the author.

[BookLoversLife · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I really enjoyed book 1, this was so much better!! It had more details, more action and best of all, more of my all time favourite character Dante, though not nearly enough!!! He just cracks me up.

Aurora is as kick ass as always. She is paired with Valerie for a mission at the start and I loved seeing them together. They are completely different but so fun to listen to. The mission doesn't exactly go as planned and Aurora finds herself trying to figure out who she can trust. Even worse, when she gets home, she goes to one of Marcus' parties and ends up in a bit of bother!! Then she is dealing with her parents marital troubles, her grandmother coming to town and her growing feeling for Dante!! So ya, poor Auroras' life is hectic in this edition!!

What can I say about Dante!!! I loved him in book 1 but it's been cemented in this one. He is so witty and funny but also trustworthy, loyal and hot ;) The chemistry between him and Aurora is smoking so I'm kind of hoping they get together!! They work so well together and get on so well that it would be awesome.

This series, and indeed it's characters, are quickly becoming one of my favourites. With it's unique and quirky take on the vampire hunter and it's witty and entertaining dialogue, this is a must read. The characters are all well written and developed, the plot is fast paced and engaging and it has a lot of laugh out loud moments that it's hard not to love the book! I can not wait to dive into book 3 of this and see what happens the gang next!!!

Em Eldridge, once again, did an amazing job with the story. She distinguished each character and it was easy to follow who was who. She made for the perfect Aurora too because she brought her sass and kick-assness to life :)

*I received a copy of this for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

[BookNerdette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nikki again you have a talent with your writing as it flows smooth as butter so much that before I knew it, the book was over.

“Fane accused Aurora of being a vampire created to kill her own kind.""

Now Nikki lets talk about your covers, their ugly. Try letting someone else design one and you’ll surely be amazed it will get more hits. I’m glad I’m reading the ebook so I didn’t have to see it repeatedly.

“Melcher’s a freak.”
“And we’re his little Franken freaks.”

Unfortunately I wasn’t as consumed by this book at the first one. It started okay then drug along then picked up and dragged til the end. (rollercoaster style) I am a wee bit heart broke about Fane. Because of that I won’t read any further in the series. I didn’t really take any notes as nothing really happen, it lacked action. I so dislike the agents and the whole organization. It is corrupt as all associated with government.

“The experience taught me that humans are psychos, not vampires,”

Blessed be,
Tresa da BookNerdette

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved it. I really like Aurora's attitude, spunk, and drive. She's got chemistry with everyone. There were a few frustrating bits (her grandmother visiting didn't seem totally pertinent to me) but they didn't really detract - it did serve its purpose. Now I'm anxiously waiting for the next book. I certainly do hope that Jared gets his. Soon.

[Michelle's Paranormal Vault of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

See my blog post to read the first chapter. Blog Post

Wow, just loved this book, this series is so unique and different than most of your vampire books.

I do not want to spoil anything, but be warned if you had not read book one, Aurora Sky, then you probably should stop here, as its almost impossible to not have a few spoilers of book one.

I really liked Aurora in book one, but liked her even more, seeing her grow and mature was great. She is such a kick ass too. I still didn’t like Valerie, but who does, lol. Dante is just as hot and sexy as in the first book. I so wish Aurora would get together. ( or do they? I am not saying, lol) The chemistry between them is pretty hot. I did like the part where Valerie took Auroras phone and did some Sexting with Dante, and it had Aurora turning 10 shades of red, lol.

There are plenty of funny parts, and tons of action and some mystery too.
We have some steamy swoon scenes too. Here is a few teasers for you:

I took shallow breaths. Dante leaned in slowly with the sort of dark expression that made me shiver all over.

Our lips met. He’d taken me off guard with the first kiss. This time it’s like he wanted me to anticipate what was coming, dangle it in front of my face like a carrot in front of a horse. Two could play that game.

I moved my lips over Dante’s , tilting my head as needed to change the angle, add pressure. I was much more confident about my kissing skills, thanks to Fane. I slipped my tongue between Dante’s lips and twirled it around his. I smiled when I heard his intake of breath. I pulled back and shot Dante a grin. “Good night, lover.”

“Oh, you’re bad.” Dante folded his arms across his chest and shot me a devilish grin. “You know this isn’t over.”

Yeah, that is a nice swoon worthy scene.

I can just see Dante so well in my head. Aurora describes him as a young clean cut Brad Pitt, but better, so Yeah, he is Hot!

I do not want to give anything away. So will stop here.

I loved this book, and highly recommend it. Its one of my favorite vampire books, as its not the typical vampire book.

5 out of 5 stars for me. One of my favorites for sure.

I was provided a copy of this book from the author for my honest review.

(received an ARC of this book before the release)

Here is book one

[Janina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ratings: 4.5 stars

This was so, so good! I must admit that I enjoyed the sequel, Northern Bites, a whole lot better than book one. Book one, was great, but Northern Bites surpassed all my expectations :) It was action packed and kept me on edge the entire book. The characters were also really fun and entertaining. I can't wait to get my hands on the third installment. Thanks so much Nikki for providing me with a review copy!

In this installment, Aurora definitely grew on me. In book one, I thought she was a bit whinny, but not at all in this one. Aurora turned out to be kind of bad ass :) I really like Aurora's way of thinking in this book. She didn't take the easy way out in certain situations when she could have. But I also felt bad for her though. Her mom is quite the character, but I did feel some sympathy for her as well. So many changes have happened in both there lives.

The big shocker, I don't hate Valerie anymore. The girl grew on me in this book even though she's still, ya know, the same. We got to know her a tad bit better when the two had to room together. Hope she makes an appearance in book three. Now Noel, I can't believe her. I've never wanted to smack a character so much in my life. Really, Noel...Really? Were you that desperate? And I am now Team Dante. He's such a lovable character and his demeanor and personality really makes you want to just give him a kiss!

The action was awesome, of course! I wanted more when I got to the end of the book! And I would love to see more interaction between Aurora and Dante. Things kind of got a bit intense with those two at times. Fang, can bite the dust! Jerk... I need book three now! I would definitely recommend this to you vamp lovers out there :)

[Andrea Heltsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series rocks. I love the story lines in this particular duo of books. I am really growing to like the characters especially the snarky Valerie. I wasn't too fond of Fane in this particular book. I also wished we saw more of Noel.

But don't worry, there's plenty of fun to be had ;) Aurora always seems to get herself into jams and it's fun to watch her get out of them.

I LOVED Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter and this was a great follow-up. I have to give this book four glittery stars because it was fun!

[Naomi 🐨 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying this series - it is such a refreshing take on vampires and vampire hunters. I love how Aurora thinks and expresses herself and I find her thoughts and inner dialogue so amusing :) It puts a smile on my face every chapter. There are just some books that really appeal to you from the first page and this is certainly one of them. Onto the next one :)

[Bcoghill Coghill · Rating 4 out of 5]

You can read my review or the first Aurora book & see that these are very enjoyable books. This is the equal of the first.
It is my pledge to purchase and read everything the author writes. Even if, a novel does not take place in my State of Alaska.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loving this series, but I need more Fane......

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book along with the entire series at a gift shop in downtown Seward, Alaska. I am a blogger @ The Paranormal Bookshelf. My review is completely my own with no bias of the author.

Category: Young adult paranormal romance
Paranormal genre: vampires
5 out of 5 stars!

Book two in the Aurora Sky: Vampire Hunter series did not disappoint. The journey follows Aurora and her friends into her new life as a vampire hunter. Along with some feisty female supportive characters, this book really begins to build a wonderful story-line. Character development is done very well. Editing was also done amazing. I love books I don't have to trip over while reading all the errors. The cover is eye catching for any cover lovers. I don't do spoilers or recaps but I will say that if you enjoyed book one, you will not be disappointed at all. If anything you will want to continue the series as much as I do.

[Amber Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series. I could not put it down. This author does a great job of writing the characters and building the story. I cannot wait to read the next one.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 was greatly improved. Less cliches more character development, better writing

[JB · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Find this and other reviews @ The Demon Librarian**

Fantasmic!

This is supposed to be a review, wherein I talk about deep and meaningful things like plot, writing style, character development, and so forth. While I do intend to touch on all of those points, the truth is, I just want to talk about Fane. Is that so wrong? No, it can't be. Something that feels so right can't possibly be wrong, wouldn't you agree? (Yeah, I knew you would.)

Before I begin my Fane gush-fest, though, let's get the "serious" stuff out of the way.

In Northern Bites, Aurora's new and highly dangerous vampire hunter life gets even more complicated. She's been transferred to a new school, has a new partner - her least favorite person, Valerie, of all people! - and her love life....oh, her poor love life. The brief romance she enjoyed in book one is over, with all the ensuing awkwardness and unresolved feelings that implies. And because things weren't exciting enough, the assignment she is sent on is plagued by problems, uncertainties, and yes, even betrayals.

Now that I think of it, her life isn't complicated - it's downright crazy!

Here's what made Northern Bites so awesome for me. First, the pacing is excellent. There are no down periods, no ho-hum moments. Every scene, be it big or small, packs its own special wallop. Then there is the dialogue. Oh, how I love the dialogue Nikki Jefford writes! It can be funny, heartfelt, sarcastic, and a whole heap of other adjectives I can't think of right now. The action is great too, and there are just enough surprises woven into the story line to keep readers hovering on the edge of their seats, ready to gasp, shout, fist pump, or whatever the scene calls for.

As great as all of those things are, though, here's what makes Northern Bites really shine (aside from Fane, haha!)....character development! Aurora has already had to grow up a lot, just by virtue of her circumstances, but I thought she made some big forward strides in this book. Sure, she still has the expected teenage moments, and yes, trouble insists on finding her, but she just seemed so much....well....more. I loved that. And Valerie? The redhead I wanted to string up a tree in the last book? Not only did Northern Bites give me some of her back story and help me understand her character better, I actually ended the book LIKING her! There was more information about practically everyone, actually, and I gobbled it up.

Now, to all you Team Dante fans out there - and I know you're out there! - I only have one thing to say: NO. Just...NO. I am fully aware I may be inviting a stoning by typing that, but I'm sorry, as much as I love the guy (and I genuinely do, he's a great character), I can't wrap my head around the idea of him and Aurora together. It just doesn't compute.

Fane, on the other hand.....(cue swooning)

Fane wasn't around as much in this book as he was in the last one, but being the awesomesauce guy that he is, he made every one of his scenes count. And of course he is and always will be the ONLY guy for Aurora in my mind. Why? Because he gets her. He understands their differences, he respects her choices, and when things don't go his way, he doesn't break furniture, indulge in jealous rages, or do any of those douche-y, controlling, alpha-male-on-steroids things that other book males sometimes do. Fane is better than that. He's confident and cool with a capital C, and he doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. The fact that he's wicked sexy, has abs to die for, and is not a sparkly vampire....well, those things don't hurt either ;). Honestly, I can't think of a single thing about the guy that I don't love - and no, THAT SCENE near the end of the book did not in any way change my opinion of him. If it changed anyone else's, well, I don't know what to say except I'm sorry. Personally, I'm choosing to trust Fane. He's been nothing short of perfect so far, IMO, and since I'm pretty sure he hasn't undergone a personality transplant or been possessed by evil aliens, I'm not too worried. In fact, I fully expect that once we have all the information, I'm going to fangirl over him even more.

Aaaaaand on that gushy, Fane-loving note, I'm calling this review over. Well, I will, right after I say, READ THIS BOOK, IT'S AMAZEBALLS! Because it is, and seriously, if you don't read it, you are missing out.

There, I'm done. For real this time ;)

4.5 Stars ★★★★1/2
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Danielle Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora is a vampire hunter on assignment to help the government control and eradicate the vampire problems in Alaska. But she isn't just any vampire hunter. Through the use of her poisonous blood, she paralyzes vampires and finishes the job with a stake in the heart. But poisonous blood and being at the beck and call of the government aren't even her biggest problems. In fact she has many problems. She might be falling for a vampire, she can't leave the state, she can't go to Notre Dame, and if her new job keeps getting in the way she won't even graduate high school. And now things are just worse. With her partner and her being put on probation, she is paired with her rival and boyfriend stealer, Valerie and they are sent on a mission that changes absolutely everything about Aurora's already messed up life, spinning her even more out of control.

When I first finished Northern Bites I kept tapping the screen trying to make more pages appear. Finally when I had tapped the screen about 10 times I realized sadly that there were no more pages. I was like, what? What, seriously, you have got to be freaking kidding me? Honestly I silently cursed Nikki Jefford for leaving me on the brink like that, I had to have answers, I had to know, because seriously there was no way that just actually happened. (Just wait, you will have the same reaction to, so just prepare yourself). I was in total shock. If I thought Aurora's life was messed up before, I have another thing coming, because the big WAMMIE that Nikki Jefford threw into Northern Bites is going to seriously put a wrench in the future for Aurora.

So, obviously I have a lot of thoughts and feelings about that major bomb shell of an ending. There was just no way I saw that coming. Then again there was a lot of things in Northern Bites that I just did not see coming. And I love being surprised by a book like that.

Bomb shell ending aside. In Northern Bites, we are introduced to a new government baddy, Jared, who also ends up being Aurora and Valerie's team leader on their mission to find the killer of one of their own. But Aurora doesn't trust this team leader and with good reason (I can't tell you that reason though, so don't even ask). It turns out this new team leader along with Melcher have been keeping more than their fair share of secrets. And they aren't good ones either. Needless to say the mission Aurora and Valerie go with Jared doesn't go quite as planned and things literally go south. When the mission is over Aurora is left with way more questions than answers and more insecurities about the entire government organization.

Along with all this incredible action and excitement that Nikki Jefford gives us, she also gives us great characters. Dante being one of my absolute favorites. Dante is Aurora's partner who also happens to be pretty smoking hot. Of course he is a perv and his head is always in the gutter, but he provides some of the best comedy relief in Aurora's bleak world. Plus we can hope for a little somethin, somethin to happen between him and Aurora now that her and Fane are finished (I know totally heartbreaking, just wait until you read it).

Naturally there is still the sexy, mysterious vampire Fane, who in this book I really just want to smack. Valerie, who surprisingly, I don't hate as much as I used to. And then there are all the man vamps who throw fabulous parties. No matter how you spin it, there is a character in this book for you to sink your teeth or stake into.

One thing is for certain, Northern Bites is even better than the first! Nikki Jefford really kicked the excitement, thrills, and suspense up a notch in this one, giving me an incredible vamp ride with amazing twists, turns and surprises! It is an absolute must read that has a great new spin on the world of vampires and their hunters.

*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Genre* YA Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4

*Thoughts*

Northern Bites has been on my most anticipated sequels list since finishing Transfusion last December. I am thankful to Nikki Jefford for offering me a copy of this book and hope I will see book number 3 soon!

I should probably start this review by saying that I would advise you to stop here, and not read any further if you haven't yet had the opportunity to read Transfusion. If you have read Transfusion, carry on my wayward followers! If not, go away until you have.

18 year old Aurora Sky is the series heroine. Since the release of Transfusion, she's had her life completely turned around just by having AB negative blood and dying at the hands of an unknown driver. Later, she's told by a secret government agency that she has no choice but to become a vampire hunter, losing any and all hope of ever attending the college of her dreams outside of Alaska, or face permanent death. Some choice. She's also being forced into taking a so called antidote each month or face the possibility of becoming the very thing that she hunts; a vampire.

Northern Bites picks up two weeks after the conclusion of Transfusion. Aurora is forced into a partnership with her main rival and nemesis Valerie Ward who is a vampire junkie and obsessed with hurting others like Aurora. I haven't always cared for or liked Valerie the boyfriend stealing minx. I thought she was absolutely conceited and a miserable person for her actions towards Aurora.

Aurora eventually learns the truth about what really happened to her on the night she died and lost her free will. She faces a hard choice when she is sent on yet another mission with Valerie and a government recruiter named Jared that doesn't exactly go as planned. In the end, Val's own personal choice was surprising and definitely brave. I actually came to understand her more than I did Aurora's own supposed friend Noel Harper who really got my blood boiling with her own actions.

Although Aurora isn't a coward, by any means, she still has some issues on the boyfriend front, as well as the fact that she can't really trust anyone except maybe her mother who has her own problems to deal with. I really didn't care for Jared from the introduction and hope he gets what's coming to him soon. I won't spoil anything for you except to say that after you read Northern Bites, you will come to hopefully, the same conclusion. I also believe that there are others, like Agent Melcher, who are trying to guide Aurora into making some really bad decisions and hope I am wrong.

Aurora's interaction with Dante needs to continue, and let's put Fane away in a box for good. I'm not sure how anyone can trust him. I found the fantasy sex scene between Aurora and certain other characters in the book to be seriously hot. I'm hoping that Aurora will get a real booty call soon. The girl desperately needs a break from school, being a vampire hunter, and especially those that surround her.

I am on the bandwagon by saying that Northern Bites definitely exceeded my expectations in every way. The story is much more intense, choices are not that simple, or obvious, and Nikki learns more about what happened to her, than anytime before. She still faces serious tests, and I hope she eventually learns how to trust others, and finds a way out of her situation that seems bleak at the moment.

*Recvd from Author* Expected publication: July 30th 2013

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora is back. Back from a near death experience. Back from a bad break up. Back to her regular routine of lame high school, depressed home life and dangerously hunting down Alaska's blood sucking vampires.

Unfortunately, that last one has her paired up with Valerie, the redhead from hell, the sultry and manipulative chick that helped in a big way to Aurora's break up with Fane. Valerie is more determined than ever to get what she wants out of life and that seems to be hooking up with every vampire around, no matter who's heart she leaves in her wake.

Aurora's original partner, Dante, is paired up with her friend Noel and sent off on their own mission. Leaving Aurora with Evil Red and a new mentor, Jared. Neither give Aurora the warm fuzzies and when the investigation goes south, she finds that she really can't rely on anyone but herself.

Northern Bites gives new perspective to the all the characters you meet in book one. Aurora eventually finds a much needed strength and an inner desire with a mind of its own. Valerie shows, well that she's still a bitch but does have more than a viper personality. Maybe not much more, but it's a start. Dante might just be more than a total flirt. Fane might actually be a total and complete dickwidget. Noel, hmmm. I don't even know where to start with that girl.

All the things I wanted in book one came to fruition in Northern Bites. Jefford delivers an action packed, heart thumping, emotional roller coaster ride of a story. There was also a surprising sexiness to Northern Bites, it caught me completely off guard. The end, in what I am coming to expect as typical Aurora fashion, left me wanting more. In a big way. It's not some major cliff hanger type ending that will have you plotting ways to kill off the author. It is the type of ending that leaves you with enough anger, questions and hope to keep this series in your minds 'anxiously awaiting' compartment.

Northern Bites was the perfect follow up, even better than the first book and I imagine it is only going to get better from here.

[Richa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at City of Books

Northern Bites has definitely satiated my vampire cravings for quite a while! This book has more Aurora being badass, more Valerie and her bitchiness, and my personal favourite, more Dante! Yeah, I think he's my favourite character now. It's impossible not to see his awesomeness from a mile away.

Okay so Aurora, Valerie, Noel and Dante have become a team. A team that is usually split into two, Aurora being stuck with Valerie. Even though Dante's trying to convince everyone that he works better with her. Aurora's been dealing with a lot, especially after the news from her father, and on top of that she has all these vampires to kill. Oh yeah, and she's developed a craving for blood. No big deal.

I loved the action and the badassery (I know it's not a word but it really works here) of the characters. They're tough, they're strong, and they're all ready to go. There's also a lot of surprises in this book. There's a new guy, Jared, who raises quite a few suspicions among the team. Things start getting out of hand when Aurora and Valerie are sent out on a mission with the newcomer.

Dante's been absolutely perfect in this book. I didn't really go all out for him in the first book, but in this one? Dante all the way! He's awesome - he makes Aurora laugh, he keeps her motivated, and he can be freaking sexy when he wants to be. I loved his interaction with Aurora! Especially their 'date'. You'll find out when you read the book! Fane isn't that much in this book, and I was initially disappointed by that, but at the end? I'm so mad at him! I don't want to give anything away, of course, but let's just say we get some nasty surprises. And now I really can't wait for the next book. I need to know what happens!

I was quite frustrated at Aurora and Fane's lack of communication, because I think that would have helped a lot initially. But we'll see how things play out in the next book. Because I was left reeling at a scene near the end! There are so many twists in this one. Honestly, you'll never see any of them coming. And that's what I really liked about Northern Bites - its unpredictability. Oh yeah, and this is definitely New Adult, just to let you know. There's quite a vivid dream scene in this, which... well, I'd rather not say anything. But it was steamy as hell!

All in all, Northern Bites is an awesome sequel to Transfusion. There was definitely none of the second book syndrome that people talk about. I finished this within a day, I was that riveted by it! For all the vamp lovers out there - you guys have to start this series. You won't regret it.

*Thank you to Nikki Jefford for providing me with an ARC for review*

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What?! It can't just end there! Northern Bites most definitely increases the danger level for Aurora! I really enjoyed the entire book, but that ending, woah. I didn't see that coming at all! Northern Bites picks up with Aurora and Dante on probation and on a mission with their new partners. Of course it doesn't go according to plan, but that's to be expected. However, what was unexpected was Aurora's new mission that takes her away from home with Jared, the recruiter, and Valerie. This is where the book really picks up and takes some unexpected turns!

I really liked how we got a little more information about how Aurora was recruited. There's even a bit about Valerie's own untimely demise and immediate recruitment as an informant. Their deaths may not be as random as either of them expected, and I hope there's more about this in the future books. There is a twist at the very end surrounding Aurora's death, and I need to know the details!

My favorite part of Northern Bites was Dante. Oh, Dante! He and Aurora may not have been working together in this book, but they have some great scenes! I liked Dante in the first book, but now I absolutely love him! He is hilarious and sexy, and Aurora is taking notice. Perhaps it's the vampirism in her upping her sex drive, or maybe there's an actual connection there. Either way, I am looking forward to more of them! The steam level has increased with this book and I loved it! Aurora has a very dirty mind! What about Fane? Well, he's around, and he's quite unnerving in this book. I wasn't quite sure what to make of him. However, after that ending, I'm a bit upset with him! He better have a good explanation!

Basically, Northern Bites is great. It's a ton of fun, and has plenty of action and plot twists. There's no romance, but there are some quite...tense scenes scattered throughout that will definitely leave readers wanting more! While the surprise in the middle had me shocked, that ending needed to be read twice. I couldn't believe my eyes! Aurora has gotten herself into quite the situation, and I'm eager to find out how this plays out!

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.

[Adele · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Originally reviewed on Adele Is Reading*

Northern Bites is the second installation in the Aurora Sky: Vampire Hunter series by Nikki Jefford. Northern Bites takes two weeks after the first book ends. This sequel is actually great in my opinion. So much happens! And much like the first volume of the story, Northern Bites was a quick read for me. About 3 hours, tops.

In Northern Bites, I wasn’t sure about what was going to happen. I didn’t even read the synopsis before reading the book. Much like the last book, there’s a lot of action that Aurora is involved in.

Much like normal books that are sequels, there are parts when Aurora recaps what happened in the last book. What I like about these recaps though is that Aurora doesn’t drone on and on about what had happened. At most there are only single paragraphs at a time. The story will then move on, and when something happens that’s relevant to the last book Aurora will only say a little about what happened. I actually really like that. How Jefford wrote that makes it bearable to marathon the books.

Aurora is in many head spaces in the duration of the story. She feels really guilty, she gets mad, she gets scared, she gets terrified. Emotions are running high. Trust gets broken on all sides, and new relationships form. Aurora also gets close to both boys, but gets pushed away from one of them. Both physically, and emotionally.

As like the first volume to this series, the story is practically the same. Someone tries to kill Aurora, they almost succeed. But Aurora manages to either escape or she kills them, blahblahblah.

I actually enjoyed reading Northern Bites though. I found that it’s a great edition to the story, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the other books!

[Amphitrite · Rating 3 out of 5]

What I liked: Aurora grew between the two books it seems like. In this one she seemed more assertive about her position but she managed to wiggle in down time occasionally. It was an interesting way to open up the story, with the characters trying to solve the suspected murder of a local pizza boy. I liked the later mystery in the book, and there were some interesting character twist that I hadn't expected when I first started this book. I was also delighted with the comical moments in the story that lifted the mood, and how we learned more about the who AB- situation surrounding the characters and what it might really mean for them. The story was, again, paced well in regards to how the story paned out and things were revealed.

What I didn't like: I'm really not okay with the thing Fane did, because it really didn't make any sense to me. Maybe it's just a thing we'll learn the meaning behind in the next installment but it still bothers me quite a bit because Fane seemed to change who he was.

Overall Review: While I'm still really not sure about the who reason behind what Fane did in this book, for the most part I really did like the story and how I came to know Valerie a bit more in this book and was given the chance to understand her the best I could right now. She's different from the way she seemed in the first book, but I'm curious to see what unfolds about the past of the different character in the future books!

Recommend?: If you liked this one I'd hope you read it! It's rather interesting and a good read to see what comes after the ending of the first book!

[Ashley Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora has to team up with Valerie (Evil Red) on a mission, which she is not to thrilled about, since she was the cause of her and Fane's break up. And Dante and Noel team up together, is what Agent Melcher tells them.

There are some ups and downs in this book. And Jared comes back into the book, he has a few secrets of his own. I don't know what it is, but I'm a sucker for bad boy type characters. I like Jared, for for a little bit, then don't then back to liking him again.

Dante Dante Dante, what to say about him.. OMGosh. I love Dante, in a fictional character kind of way. He stars in Aurora's dream, and OMG. To bad I didn't get to read about it..Lol But you get to read about just before, and who else stars in her dream.

Fane, well he's Fane. Jerk at times and a sweet heart at other times.

Valerie, well she's Valerie, and a badass chick, she has problems, but who doesn't.

Noel, the sweet girl you meet in book one. Is still sweet until the end.. Back stabbing...you can fill in the blank. She kind of stops talking to Aurora, why I don't exactly know, I guess we'll find out in the next book.

Back to Aurora and Dante, they are great. Do they get closer as in a couple kind of way or do they stay as just friends who work together. You are just going to have to read the book to find out.

All in all, I liked the book and gave it a five star. Well written, for me it played out like a movie, which I absolutely love about a book, if I can read it, and it does that. Then the author has me as a reader as long as they keep writing.

[Diane Lynch Lynch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aurora Sky is partnered with her nemesis, Valerie Ward, to investigate a team member’s death in Sitka, Alaska.

It was interesting learning more about Valerie. She has an abrasive personality, but I can understand the attitude considering some of the things she has been through.

I was fascinated by the dynamics of Aurora’s and Valerie’s relationship as they worked together to fight their team leader, Jared.

Dante cracks me up. He is a great partner and friend to Aurora. I love that he is always there for Aurora. I enjoyed him pretending to be her boyfriend. He was a good choice. He is very polite and definitely someone you would want your grandma to meet. It’s great that he took advantage of the situation.

I was surprised by the ending and cannot wait to read what happens next in book, Bad Blood. This is a great series for anyone who enjoys young adult paranormal books.

Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Meghan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bummer. The intrigue I expected from first book's ending left me high and dry. And then our gal suffered from a serious lack of plot planning. Cause here was all this moral conflict in last book and it trend out to be ok to kill baddies. But then in this book it wasn't ok. But then it became ok again at the end. And then she jumps right in the viper pit without a thought to all the ways she could disappear for good. Easy peasy. I don't know if ill read the next. She just gt a little too dude obsessed, stupid and not nearly slayer enough for a vamp slayer novel. I felt like I have already watched this episode of "Buffy" years ago.

[Melinda Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really love how kick-ass Aurora is and am excited to find out more about initiation as well as the biology, physiology and creation of vampires. I really love the version of vampires presented in the book. Overall, this was an exciting read and I can't wait to read the next installment.

[Nyah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, great book, just felt as if there was something missing. And I dont know what it is. Maybe ill figure it out when I read the third book.

[Vicki · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked some elements of this but skimmed through a lot of it

[Mishy Coowa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Valerie is pretty decent surprisingly and I feel as though she and Aurora get along really well. Really wanted to slap Noel at the end of the book. She and Farron probably had their reasons but for now I can't think of any reason that would be good enough. I also don't understand why Aurora took the ring, I get she needed evidence but she wasn't careful about it... like at all. Mike following her really creeped me out like what is his deal? He barely even knew her and he thinks stalking is okay? Also I don't get why they didn't know that the dude (forgot his name but the evil vampire guy they were running away from)was the one that crashed into Aurora's car. In the first book they said that the other driver didn't make it, but how did they know that if the other guy was the driver, unless he planted a body, but if that was the case the cause of death wouldn't have aligned. She also said in the first book that "she would've found the other driver cute". Also Valerie couldn't really hold her blackmail against her so I don't see why she couldn't still be with Fane. Speaking of Fane he really annoyed the crap out of me in this book. He was better in the first book, in this one he comes off as annoying, insensitive, and whiny. Dante is still amazing and funny. He really adds personality to the book and I would hate to see him turn out evil or something.