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London Steampunk #1.5
Tarnished Knight
In the steam-fuelled world of Victorian London, vampires, werewolves and slasher gangs stalk the night and a man made partly of metal is about to discover just how far he'll go to protect the woman he loves…
After a vicious vampire attack left him struggling to leash the dark urges of the craving virus, John "Rip" Doolan thinks he's finally starting to master the darkness within. The only thing that threatens to shatter his hard-won control is Esme, his closest friend and the only woman he's ever wanted. If the stubborn beauty ever realized precisely what was going through his mind, their friendship would be ruined.
For six months, Esme has waited for Rip to recover and take her as his thrall, not daring to hope for more. Too afraid to put her heart on the line, she is devastated when Rip reveals that he never had any intentions of making her his.
But when a savage gang of Slashers start causing havoc in Whitechapel, Rip and Esme have no choice. They must face up to the depth of the passion that burns between them and forge a new relationship…or risk losing each other forever.
After a vicious vampire attack left him struggling to leash the dark urges of the craving virus, John "Rip" Doolan thinks he's finally starting to master the darkness within. The only thing that threatens to shatter his hard-won control is Esme, his closest friend and the only woman he's ever wanted. If the stubborn beauty ever realized precisely what was going through his mind, their friendship would be ruined.
For six months, Esme has waited for Rip to recover and take her as his thrall, not daring to hope for more. Too afraid to put her heart on the line, she is devastated when Rip reveals that he never had any intentions of making her his.
But when a savage gang of Slashers start causing havoc in Whitechapel, Rip and Esme have no choice. They must face up to the depth of the passion that burns between them and forge a new relationship…or risk losing each other forever.
162 pages, ebook
First published April 5, 2013
125 people are currently reading
2296 people want to read
About the author
Bec McMaster
58 books3,463 followersKidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 275 reviews
October 8, 2019
This is a sweet little novella about Rip and Esme coming together at last! |sighs dreamily| I really wanted this to be a 5 star read for me, but I wanted more. I needed more. But then I realized how lucky I was to even be reading about their story in the first place.
It is assumed that Esme and Rip are a couple at the end of Kiss of Steel. Without this novella, we wouldn't have gotten to see the struggles Rip had to endure and Esme's longing for him. Bec McMaster blessed us with their heartwarming story, and while I still wanted more, I was happy with what I was given.
"I'll wait," she whispered. "I'll wait for you, John. Always."
4 STARS!
It is assumed that Esme and Rip are a couple at the end of Kiss of Steel. Without this novella, we wouldn't have gotten to see the struggles Rip had to endure and Esme's longing for him. Bec McMaster blessed us with their heartwarming story, and while I still wanted more, I was happy with what I was given.
"I'll wait," she whispered. "I'll wait for you, John. Always."
4 STARS!
May 21, 2024
5 'cute' stars
A sweet and cute novella about Esme and Rip finally getting together. I was already invested in them in book 1, so it was really great to see this couple get their HEA.
I would prefer a full-length novel because the story was a little bit rushed but I still loved it.
Esme smiled and leaned her forehead against his, her body rising and falling with his breath. She cupped his face and kissed his lips lightly, tasting copper, sharp and sweet. “I knew you’d come,” she whispered. “I knew all along that you’d come for me.”
Rip kissed her hard. “Always, my love.”
A sweet and cute novella about Esme and Rip finally getting together. I was already invested in them in book 1, so it was really great to see this couple get their HEA.
“Esme.” He drew the folds of his shirt together, as if unnerved by her stare. Esme caught his hands.
“Don’t,” she said. “I want to look at you. I love your body.” Her fingernails dug into his abdomen. “All of you. All mine.”
I would prefer a full-length novel because the story was a little bit rushed but I still loved it.
Esme’s breath caught. “Are you asking me to marry you?”
“Aye.” His voice roughened in a growl. “I’m an old fashioned sort o’ man. Ain’t one of the Echelon with their consort contracts. I were born on the streets and ‘ere on the streets, when a lad fancies a girl ‘e asks ‘er to be ‘is alone.”
May 22, 2020
*dreamy sighs* This novella is an auto 5 star read. I knew I would enjoy Rip and Esme's story.
Rip struggles to cope with his hunger and cravings. His second thoughts stand a hurdle between him and Esme.
Esme is the housekeeper, she is kind and fiery. She finds herself closer to John (Rip) in this family that she has been taking care for years. Esme has been patient, now she tries to find the right time to make her feelings known.
This story has sweetness and passion. With a little meddling the couple were brought together. I like that, despite the sweet romance the hero stays dangerous and lethal and the heroine his perfect counterpart.
Rip struggles to cope with his hunger and cravings. His second thoughts stand a hurdle between him and Esme.
Esme is the housekeeper, she is kind and fiery. She finds herself closer to John (Rip) in this family that she has been taking care for years. Esme has been patient, now she tries to find the right time to make her feelings known.
This story has sweetness and passion. With a little meddling the couple were brought together. I like that, despite the sweet romance the hero stays dangerous and lethal and the heroine his perfect counterpart.
February 28, 2018
I'd somehow missed this novella that fits between Kiss of Steel and Heart of Iron but was overjoyed to discover yesterday that I had it lurking in my kindle library. Let's face it the London Steampunk series has amazing world building with characters that scream out at the reader and are impossible to resist.
Rip is such a tortured hero and I'm pretty sure numerous readers will enjoy his story. Savaged and nearly at deaths door he has struggled to learn to cope with his hunger and dark thoughts. Yes he wants Esme with every bone in his body but there's no way he would ever hurt her so it's pretty ironic that that's exactly what he does.
Esme has made a life for herself in this peculiar 'family that she now lives with. She's felt a closeness to the man she calls John but is she kidding herself ? Yes Esme can be patient but what if he really doesn't want her at all ?
This couple are so exactly right for each other that the sweetness of it all just takes my breath away. Friends to lovers doesn't usually really grab my interest but the way this story is written meant I had no doubts that they were meant to be a couple. They struggle, they confuse each other and then with a little meddling they are almost on the same page . Alas though in violent and dangerous London it's best to always look over your shoulder!
Rip is such a tortured hero and I'm pretty sure numerous readers will enjoy his story. Savaged and nearly at deaths door he has struggled to learn to cope with his hunger and dark thoughts. Yes he wants Esme with every bone in his body but there's no way he would ever hurt her so it's pretty ironic that that's exactly what he does.
Esme has made a life for herself in this peculiar 'family that she now lives with. She's felt a closeness to the man she calls John but is she kidding herself ? Yes Esme can be patient but what if he really doesn't want her at all ?
This couple are so exactly right for each other that the sweetness of it all just takes my breath away. Friends to lovers doesn't usually really grab my interest but the way this story is written meant I had no doubts that they were meant to be a couple. They struggle, they confuse each other and then with a little meddling they are almost on the same page . Alas though in violent and dangerous London it's best to always look over your shoulder!
October 6, 2016
The Caretaker and the Colossus
I love to read stories about big, ugly guys who get their happily-ever-after. This novella takes place after Kiss of Steel and expands the story for Esme and Rip. If you recall, Rip is the sidekick behemoth with the mechanical arm in the first book of this outstanding series. For a novella, I thought the story was satisfying and well-paced, with very strong characterization.
Housekeeper Esme is 30-something, curvy, kind, and has been harboring a crush on Rip for years. Standing in their way is Rip's insecurity with blood cravings following his recent turn. As a big guy without the face of an angel, a missing arm, and a reputation as an enforcer in the toughest neighborhood in London, John "Rip" Doolan doesn't see the lovely Esme falling for him anytime soon.
However, with a little meddling from Blade (book one), a mystery to be solved regarding missing women, and a little ego-baring honesty, these two mismatched characters might find love amid the squalor of McMaster's steampunk world.
I love to read stories about big, ugly guys who get their happily-ever-after. This novella takes place after Kiss of Steel and expands the story for Esme and Rip. If you recall, Rip is the sidekick behemoth with the mechanical arm in the first book of this outstanding series. For a novella, I thought the story was satisfying and well-paced, with very strong characterization.
Housekeeper Esme is 30-something, curvy, kind, and has been harboring a crush on Rip for years. Standing in their way is Rip's insecurity with blood cravings following his recent turn. As a big guy without the face of an angel, a missing arm, and a reputation as an enforcer in the toughest neighborhood in London, John "Rip" Doolan doesn't see the lovely Esme falling for him anytime soon.
However, with a little meddling from Blade (book one), a mystery to be solved regarding missing women, and a little ego-baring honesty, these two mismatched characters might find love amid the squalor of McMaster's steampunk world.
June 1, 2013
I might be biased toward this book because I started harboring a major crush on Rip from the first moment he was introduced in Blade's book (a big man with a mechanical arm? Have mercy on my ovaries). I was beyond excited to see John and Esme's relationship hash out, and though I would've killed for a full-length novel, I loved that this wasn't rushed and didn't feel short.
On another note, Bec McMaster, I love you. Please write a book a month. I'd buy every single one.
On another note, Bec McMaster, I love you. Please write a book a month. I'd buy every single one.
October 15, 2017
A really nice filler to complement book one Kiss of Steel and lead the way into the next book, Heart of Iron - the edition I read has the story, Lena's Decision, included as well.
Tarnished Knight picks up the story of Blade's housekeeper, Esme and one of his lieutenants, John "Rip" Doolan who was so badly injured during a vampire attack that the only way to save him was for Blade to infect him with the craving virus.
Rip is having an incredibly difficult time adjusting to the cravings, and it's badly affected his friendship with Esme. In the previous book, there was clearly the potential for something to develop between them, but now that Rip is worried about controlling himself around her, he's distanced himself and she doesn't know why.
That whole "I can't be with you because I might hurt you" thing is a common trope in romance, but it's well done, and the author skilfully combines the romantic storyline with one involving the Slashers, a group of nasties who kidnap people, drain their blood and then sell it to the draining factories in the East End.
For a novella, there's plenty of meat on the bones of the story, lots of action and some steamy love scenes. Now all I have to do is find the time to read book two...
Tarnished Knight picks up the story of Blade's housekeeper, Esme and one of his lieutenants, John "Rip" Doolan who was so badly injured during a vampire attack that the only way to save him was for Blade to infect him with the craving virus.
Rip is having an incredibly difficult time adjusting to the cravings, and it's badly affected his friendship with Esme. In the previous book, there was clearly the potential for something to develop between them, but now that Rip is worried about controlling himself around her, he's distanced himself and she doesn't know why.
That whole "I can't be with you because I might hurt you" thing is a common trope in romance, but it's well done, and the author skilfully combines the romantic storyline with one involving the Slashers, a group of nasties who kidnap people, drain their blood and then sell it to the draining factories in the East End.
For a novella, there's plenty of meat on the bones of the story, lots of action and some steamy love scenes. Now all I have to do is find the time to read book two...
July 15, 2016
Awww I loved Esme & Rip <3
May 16, 2020
I really liked this novella set in London Steampunk. I loved the two MCs, Rip and Esme, and . The slasher gang was crazy, and I liked that is leader was Higgins (made me think of Professor Higgins in My Fair Lady).
August 18, 2016
So far this is available for free on the authors website... Tarnished Knight falls sixth months after the first book in McMaster's London Steampunk series (Kiss of Steel), there are enough hints about the 'world' here that Tarnished Knight probably could be read without reading the first book, but it is more fun if you have since there are references to what has gone before, plus Kiss of Steel is worth reading as well.
I really liked this novella, it was originally serialized with one chapter a day on the author site as a Christmas present to fans, but I am glad I waited and read the whole thing in one sitting. I loved both of the leads: Rip (Blade's enforcer) and Esme (Blade's housekeeper) who had been friends but had yearned for more. After the events in the previous book changed Rip, he no longer feels that he can pursue Esme and they do a bit of a rejection polka here as Esme tentatively tries to reveal her heart - but a bit too subtly for Rip to be sure of what he is turning down. Fortunately - as poetic justice - Blade's 'meddling' saves the day, but Blade's enemies do their best to make sure that Esme and Rip's happily is not ever after.
This was wonderful, I love the friends to lovers trope and I loved seeing more of the London Steampunk world. Can't wait for the next book Heart of Iron (May 2013.)
I really liked this novella, it was originally serialized with one chapter a day on the author site as a Christmas present to fans, but I am glad I waited and read the whole thing in one sitting. I loved both of the leads: Rip (Blade's enforcer) and Esme (Blade's housekeeper) who had been friends but had yearned for more. After the events in the previous book changed Rip, he no longer feels that he can pursue Esme and they do a bit of a rejection polka here as Esme tentatively tries to reveal her heart - but a bit too subtly for Rip to be sure of what he is turning down. Fortunately - as poetic justice - Blade's 'meddling' saves the day, but Blade's enemies do their best to make sure that Esme and Rip's happily is not ever after.
This was wonderful, I love the friends to lovers trope and I loved seeing more of the London Steampunk world. Can't wait for the next book Heart of Iron (May 2013.)
May 26, 2013
I am in love with this world! I can't wait to get somewhere that my kindle picks up wifi to get the next book lol
Rip was such a tortured hero - my favorite kind :) Rip and Esme had huge communication problems. Thankfully, Blade meddled and helped them get it straight :)
The few chapters at the end about Lena and Will were wonderful! And as I said at the beginning of the review, I can't wait for the next book which is theirs :)
Rip was such a tortured hero - my favorite kind :) Rip and Esme had huge communication problems. Thankfully, Blade meddled and helped them get it straight :)
The few chapters at the end about Lena and Will were wonderful! And as I said at the beginning of the review, I can't wait for the next book which is theirs :)
April 23, 2013
4/5; 4 stars; A-
I really enjoyed this novella. After meeting Rip and Esme in book 1, it was so nice to read more about them and more about the steampunk world that McMaster has created. I am really enjoying this new author.
I really enjoyed this novella. After meeting Rip and Esme in book 1, it was so nice to read more about them and more about the steampunk world that McMaster has created. I am really enjoying this new author.
February 21, 2018
It's been six months since Rip got the craving virus to save his life. With a new thirst for blood, Rip is determined to keep his distance from his friend Esme because he's afraid to hurt her and she confuse him too.
No one can pretend that Esme is not a patient woman. Blade's housekeeper waited and waited for Rip to realize she wants more than his friendship. But if she doesn't want to wait forever, it's gonna be up to her to show him what she wants. And maybe she'll need someone to interfere because the big, stubborn and frustrating man doesn't seem to take the hint either.
So it was not the best plot and romance wise, probably because there wasn't enough time for deeper developments and more adventures, but I'm still glad I finally got the chance to read Rip and Esme's story. We see more than ever how Blade and his friends became like a foster family. I also liked the fact it was kind of a Christmas novella :)
No one can pretend that Esme is not a patient woman. Blade's housekeeper waited and waited for Rip to realize she wants more than his friendship. But if she doesn't want to wait forever, it's gonna be up to her to show him what she wants. And maybe she'll need someone to interfere because the big, stubborn and frustrating man doesn't seem to take the hint either.
So it was not the best plot and romance wise, probably because there wasn't enough time for deeper developments and more adventures, but I'm still glad I finally got the chance to read Rip and Esme's story. We see more than ever how Blade and his friends became like a foster family. I also liked the fact it was kind of a Christmas novella :)
August 25, 2013
Tarnished Knight is a novella that was originally offered as a free read on Bec McMaster's website but that has since been released as an ebook including an additional prequel story for the 2nd book Heart of Iron. This story is set approximately six months after the ending of Kiss of Steel and I'd definitely recommend it to fans of the series before you move on to book 2.
I really liked both Rip and Esme when we were introduced to them in the first book, they are both incredibly loyal members of Blade's household and I it was obvious from the beginning that they had feelings for each other. When Rip was badly injured and on the verge of death Blade's only choice was to infect him with the Craving virus to ensure that his friend would survive. Rip has spent the last six months learning to control his hunger but he hates what he has become. He loves Esme but doesn't feel worthy of her so he is determined that they will remain friends and nothing more. Esme has had feelings for Rip for a long time, he is her best friend but he is also everything she ever wanted in a man, someone who is kind, generous and protective. She wants desperately to become not just his Thrall but also his lover but she doesn't know how to make him realise that. She has tried subtle hints but nothing seems to be getting though to him and she is heartbroken by what she feels is his rejection of her offer.
Rip and Esme don't have the easiest start to their relationship but they have a solid friendship to build upon and the pair also have great chemistry. It is only really a misunderstanding between them and Rip's lack of confidence in his ability not to hurt her that is keeping them apart. When they are forced to work together to protect Blade's territory from a new gang of Slashers they can't stop their emotions from getting involved but can Rip keep Esme safe when their enemy sees her as the perfect target?
Tarnished Knight is a fabulous novella in a brilliant series that I'm looking forward to continuing. I loved Rip and Esme's story and it was great to see the pair of them start to work things out. I also really enjoyed the prequel to Heart of Iron, Will and Lena are both really interesting characters and it was a nice way of getting inside both of their heads and understanding what they think of each other. I have a feeling I'm going to love their book even more than this one!
I really liked both Rip and Esme when we were introduced to them in the first book, they are both incredibly loyal members of Blade's household and I it was obvious from the beginning that they had feelings for each other. When Rip was badly injured and on the verge of death Blade's only choice was to infect him with the Craving virus to ensure that his friend would survive. Rip has spent the last six months learning to control his hunger but he hates what he has become. He loves Esme but doesn't feel worthy of her so he is determined that they will remain friends and nothing more. Esme has had feelings for Rip for a long time, he is her best friend but he is also everything she ever wanted in a man, someone who is kind, generous and protective. She wants desperately to become not just his Thrall but also his lover but she doesn't know how to make him realise that. She has tried subtle hints but nothing seems to be getting though to him and she is heartbroken by what she feels is his rejection of her offer.
Rip and Esme don't have the easiest start to their relationship but they have a solid friendship to build upon and the pair also have great chemistry. It is only really a misunderstanding between them and Rip's lack of confidence in his ability not to hurt her that is keeping them apart. When they are forced to work together to protect Blade's territory from a new gang of Slashers they can't stop their emotions from getting involved but can Rip keep Esme safe when their enemy sees her as the perfect target?
Tarnished Knight is a fabulous novella in a brilliant series that I'm looking forward to continuing. I loved Rip and Esme's story and it was great to see the pair of them start to work things out. I also really enjoyed the prequel to Heart of Iron, Will and Lena are both really interesting characters and it was a nice way of getting inside both of their heads and understanding what they think of each other. I have a feeling I'm going to love their book even more than this one!
December 26, 2012
A Christmas novella serialised by Bec McMaster and only available at this stage on her website.
Beautifully romantic tale set in her London Steampunk world this is the story of Esme, Blade and Honoria's housekeeper and John "Rip" Doohan Blade's enforcer. Amongst the mystery of disappearing people in Whitechapel and the evil slasher gangs, Rip must face his own demons if Esme is ever to be his. If you loved Kiss of Steel, you must read this. It's great.
Beautifully romantic tale set in her London Steampunk world this is the story of Esme, Blade and Honoria's housekeeper and John "Rip" Doohan Blade's enforcer. Amongst the mystery of disappearing people in Whitechapel and the evil slasher gangs, Rip must face his own demons if Esme is ever to be his. If you loved Kiss of Steel, you must read this. It's great.
May 28, 2013
A special little treat!!
I love the steampunk "Whitechapel" world Ms McMaster has created in this series. In this book we get a peek into the love story of Rip and Esme. They fit so perfectly together; they really have that spark! The reason I knocked off a star is because their story is too short! (That seems to be my biggest complaint with most novellas!)
I love the steampunk "Whitechapel" world Ms McMaster has created in this series. In this book we get a peek into the love story of Rip and Esme. They fit so perfectly together; they really have that spark! The reason I knocked off a star is because their story is too short! (That seems to be my biggest complaint with most novellas!)
September 2, 2015
3.5 stars
It's not a secret I'm not a fan of novellas, but as far as novellas go, this was pretty good. I loved the theme of this little book and I just wish it was longer. Oh well...
As a bonus there's a little introduction for book #2 that will whet your appetite to read more about Will and Lena.
It's not a secret I'm not a fan of novellas, but as far as novellas go, this was pretty good. I loved the theme of this little book and I just wish it was longer. Oh well...
As a bonus there's a little introduction for book #2 that will whet your appetite to read more about Will and Lena.
November 1, 2017
I read this out of order and after Lena and Will's book, which is the next one. I'm glad I did because it was short enough that it was easy to get into, and reconnected me to the series. I didn't like Lena here as she is a bit of a brat but in her own book she is all grown up and I liked her even less. Will was great but Lena was self-absorbed. So Esme and Rip (John) make me want to go on..
So this novella of about 160 pages put my faith back that perhaps not all the women are going to be unlikable. I'd been avoiding reading on. Here we have two insecure characters when it comes to thinking they would be chosen for love. They both know they are valued by their friends and those that they've made family but for love... Well, Esme was thrown out by her husband's family after he died and then as Blade's thrall, he never chose her as a mate. John has mechanical parts and that makes him unwanted by many. Now that he is (vampire) a Blue Blood, he doesn't want Esme because she thinks she "should" or feels "obliged" to become his thrall. He wants her as a lover but before the craving (becoming vamp) he didn't think he was good enough, and now without the control needed, he thinks he is even less.
To be fair, John really doesn't understand relationships. His assumptions hold the relationship back. Esme might not come out and say "I want you for sex" but I think kissing him passionately is quite enough. Yet, he runs away because of the craving and then makes assumptions, the wrong ones. He almost is simple minded about relationships. It is sad how he sees himself in women's eyes, whores didn't even want him as a brute of a burly mech man. Now whores are the only ones who would accept him and it is only because of the craving and the euphoria it brings. I really liked them both but felt it was hard for Esme to take the hurt he creates with the assumptions he makes.
Really good story and relationship. Very nice to see the others and the Christmas that they make.
So this novella of about 160 pages put my faith back that perhaps not all the women are going to be unlikable. I'd been avoiding reading on. Here we have two insecure characters when it comes to thinking they would be chosen for love. They both know they are valued by their friends and those that they've made family but for love... Well, Esme was thrown out by her husband's family after he died and then as Blade's thrall, he never chose her as a mate. John has mechanical parts and that makes him unwanted by many. Now that he is (vampire) a Blue Blood, he doesn't want Esme because she thinks she "should" or feels "obliged" to become his thrall. He wants her as a lover but before the craving (becoming vamp) he didn't think he was good enough, and now without the control needed, he thinks he is even less.
To be fair, John really doesn't understand relationships. His assumptions hold the relationship back. Esme might not come out and say "I want you for sex" but I think kissing him passionately is quite enough. Yet, he runs away because of the craving and then makes assumptions, the wrong ones. He almost is simple minded about relationships. It is sad how he sees himself in women's eyes, whores didn't even want him as a brute of a burly mech man. Now whores are the only ones who would accept him and it is only because of the craving and the euphoria it brings. I really liked them both but felt it was hard for Esme to take the hurt he creates with the assumptions he makes.
Really good story and relationship. Very nice to see the others and the Christmas that they make.
October 3, 2018
Love Bec McMaster in general, but this book was stretched far too thin. It just didn't have enough there to make a successful novella.
h: I want to be with you.
H: I'm not good enough for you. Excuse me for a moment, I need to fight bad guys or something.
--
H: I'm back. Still not good enough for you.
h: But I want to be with you, as a lover. As your woman.
H (to self): I have no idea how she feels about me. Oh, wait, a bad guy. BRB.
OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
h: I want to be with you.
H: I'm not good enough for you. Excuse me for a moment, I need to fight bad guys or something.
--
H: I'm back. Still not good enough for you.
h: But I want to be with you, as a lover. As your woman.
H (to self): I have no idea how she feels about me. Oh, wait, a bad guy. BRB.
OVER AND OVER AND OVER.
May 27, 2018
This was a cute and quick novella set between the first and the second books in the London Steampunk series.
So in the first book Rip clearly had a thing for Esme, but they never really got together. When Rip was infected with the Blueblood virus, it took him a while to get it under control. Esme has just been waiting patiently for that to happen in the hopes that Rip will totally want to, you know, drink HER blood.
Rip and Esme were pretty cute together but like 100% of all the problems could have just been resolved by having a mature conversation. Bec McMaster also really loves the macho super-manly man archetype and that may be wearing a bit thin on me.
I did really enjoy that even the novella added to the world building and I am looking forward to the second book in the series.
So in the first book Rip clearly had a thing for Esme, but they never really got together. When Rip was infected with the Blueblood virus, it took him a while to get it under control. Esme has just been waiting patiently for that to happen in the hopes that Rip will totally want to, you know, drink HER blood.
Rip and Esme were pretty cute together but like 100% of all the problems could have just been resolved by having a mature conversation. Bec McMaster also really loves the macho super-manly man archetype and that may be wearing a bit thin on me.
I did really enjoy that even the novella added to the world building and I am looking forward to the second book in the series.
April 16, 2013
This book was reviewed on Where the Night Kind Roam
I very quickly came to love this series! I am so glad that Anne from Under the Covers Book Blog recommended this series to me. It is a unique blend of historical, paranormal and steampunk. This book takes place approximately 6 months after the first book left off. Rip was given the blood-craving to survive a mortal wound at the end of the first book. It was Esme who provided blood for the first time to Rip so that he would survive. For the last six months Rip has been fighting his control of the craving. He has no intention of ever letting Esme be his Thrall. He believes that she is better than that, better than him. For the past six months Esme has been waiting for Rip to take her as his Thrall. She has would give anything to be so close to him, only he doesn’t seem to realize that he is her craving.
In this novella we are taken on a rollercoaster of misunderstandings which make for an entertaining read. Esme and Rip can never quite seem to get on the same page, he can’t believe that she would want likes of him and she can’t seem to make him understand that she wants him as more than just her friend. She is ready to take their friendship to the next level, more than ready, like years ago ready. But he never makes the move. Rip is a giant but a gentle giant at heart, Esme’s friendship means everything to him and he is not willing to do anything to jeopardize that. He can’t seem to make Esme understand that he respects her too much to take her to Thrall.
When the Slasher’s make a play for Blade’s territory, it is Rip that risks his life to take them out. Only the tasks becomes more than he can handle alone. When woman start disappearing he realizes that everyone is in danger. Could it be that Esme will be the next victim of this sadistic bastard. The danger that the Slasher’s pose adds an exciting element of danger to the story. This book may not be very long but it certainly packs all that it can in a short span of time. This book is an action packed tale with plenty of romance. It was a fantastic installment to this exciting new series!
I very quickly came to love this series! I am so glad that Anne from Under the Covers Book Blog recommended this series to me. It is a unique blend of historical, paranormal and steampunk. This book takes place approximately 6 months after the first book left off. Rip was given the blood-craving to survive a mortal wound at the end of the first book. It was Esme who provided blood for the first time to Rip so that he would survive. For the last six months Rip has been fighting his control of the craving. He has no intention of ever letting Esme be his Thrall. He believes that she is better than that, better than him. For the past six months Esme has been waiting for Rip to take her as his Thrall. She has would give anything to be so close to him, only he doesn’t seem to realize that he is her craving.
In this novella we are taken on a rollercoaster of misunderstandings which make for an entertaining read. Esme and Rip can never quite seem to get on the same page, he can’t believe that she would want likes of him and she can’t seem to make him understand that she wants him as more than just her friend. She is ready to take their friendship to the next level, more than ready, like years ago ready. But he never makes the move. Rip is a giant but a gentle giant at heart, Esme’s friendship means everything to him and he is not willing to do anything to jeopardize that. He can’t seem to make Esme understand that he respects her too much to take her to Thrall.
When the Slasher’s make a play for Blade’s territory, it is Rip that risks his life to take them out. Only the tasks becomes more than he can handle alone. When woman start disappearing he realizes that everyone is in danger. Could it be that Esme will be the next victim of this sadistic bastard. The danger that the Slasher’s pose adds an exciting element of danger to the story. This book may not be very long but it certainly packs all that it can in a short span of time. This book is an action packed tale with plenty of romance. It was a fantastic installment to this exciting new series!
September 30, 2016
Well written
The world in this story is getting even more detailed and vibrant. This time we get the perspective of Esme and Rip. They were like teenagers really, which was a bit frustrating. So many communication issues. Rip really isn't as dense as he seems with Esme's clear intentions, it's just that he has been told that he's big and scary so he doesn't see himself as someone that could be loved. That broke my heart. It probably would have been more clear if there was more details on his past.
The world in this story is getting even more detailed and vibrant. This time we get the perspective of Esme and Rip. They were like teenagers really, which was a bit frustrating. So many communication issues. Rip really isn't as dense as he seems with Esme's clear intentions, it's just that he has been told that he's big and scary so he doesn't see himself as someone that could be loved. That broke my heart. It probably would have been more clear if there was more details on his past.
October 5, 2014
Uh, so this feels like a weird complaint to make about a novella, but I think this might've been too long for me! Rip was a little TOO stupid for my tastes, especially since Kiss of Steel made me kind of think things were somewhat settled between him and Esme. And the plot seemed a bit too simplistic, I guess.
Still, I'm glad Rip and Esme got their story told!
Still, I'm glad Rip and Esme got their story told!
December 18, 2020
Reread 2019
I 💗 this series! Always a delight to dive back in:)
Rip and Esme had me swooning in absolute delight with their attraction! This story had a lot going on. The romance was awesome, the suspense was great, and the world McMaster’s has created was a perfect blend of steampunk, paranormal, and romance! I am loving the twist on vampires, verwulfen, and steampunk London! I haven’t read this particular series yet, but it’s definitely going on my must read list!
I 💗 this series! Always a delight to dive back in:)
Rip and Esme had me swooning in absolute delight with their attraction! This story had a lot going on. The romance was awesome, the suspense was great, and the world McMaster’s has created was a perfect blend of steampunk, paranormal, and romance! I am loving the twist on vampires, verwulfen, and steampunk London! I haven’t read this particular series yet, but it’s definitely going on my must read list!
November 12, 2015
4.5 stars. I would like to rename this 'Misunderstandings and Mechanical Arms'. This was a fabulous little christmas tale that gives you insight into more than just Esme and Rip's dance around each other. I wish this novella was longer, but I'm absolutely salivating for Will's story now. Love, love, LOVE.
January 13, 2014
I really enjoyed Rip and Esme's love story; they are two secondary characters that definitely deserved their own HEA. Felt more like a full-length book than a novella―a great addition to the London Steampunk series! You'll probably get more out of this one if you read Heart of Iron first though.
September 1, 2016
++Spoilers+++
Not my thing.
I am done with this author. She wrote one book in this series that I liked.
Not going into it.
Safety-not safe for me too pissed to go into it.
Returned for refund
Not my thing.
I am done with this author. She wrote one book in this series that I liked.
Not going into it.
Safety-not safe for me too pissed to go into it.
Returned for refund
August 15, 2021
In the previous book, Rip had suffered life ending injuries. Blade gave him a choice and he opted to take the Craving virus and turn "blue blood." This healed him and now he is learning to deal with the hunger for blood. This takes place 6 months after book 1.
Rip has loved Esme ever since they met and vice versa. Rip feels he is not good enough and worried d/t his craving for blood and the fine control he needs to have over it. Esme has never really knew how to act on her feelings. After some angst and the return of some Slashers, they figure their shit out.
It was nice to see Blade and Honoria happy and settled. Honoria's siblings; Lena and Charlie are living with them. Charlie is learning to control himself with Blade's help. Next story is Lena and Will; this is a nice setup into book 2. Lena wants more and Will is fighting his attraction to Lena and doesn't treat her very well. Lena makes a bargain with Leo.
This works for Ripped Bodice Bingo's Stable Romp square.
Rip has loved Esme ever since they met and vice versa. Rip feels he is not good enough and worried d/t his craving for blood and the fine control he needs to have over it. Esme has never really knew how to act on her feelings. After some angst and the return of some Slashers, they figure their shit out.
It was nice to see Blade and Honoria happy and settled. Honoria's siblings; Lena and Charlie are living with them. Charlie is learning to control himself with Blade's help. Next story is Lena and Will; this is a nice setup into book 2. Lena wants more and Will is fighting his attraction to Lena and doesn't treat her very well. Lena makes a bargain with Leo.
This works for Ripped Bodice Bingo's Stable Romp square.
July 27, 2021
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wonderful: 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Hot: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
John "Rip" and Esme 🥰🥰
Que casal, que história... Eu ameii, cada página...
Sem Spoilers...
Só posso dizer LEIA... 🤣🤣
Good Reading!! 🎀😘
Wonderful: 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Hot: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
John "Rip" and Esme 🥰🥰
Que casal, que história... Eu ameii, cada página...
Sem Spoilers...
Só posso dizer LEIA... 🤣🤣
Good Reading!! 🎀😘
January 15, 2025
Well-written over-wrought sweeping romance. It's just not my kind of book any more, though.
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