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MacNachton Vampires #9
Born to Bite
Born to Bite
Darkly handsome and dangerously sexy, these voracious vampires are out for blood--and bound for eternal love...
DARK SECRET
Alone in the world, Murdina Dunbar sets out in search of the only family she has left--and finds an ally in the mysterious Sir Gillanders Baldwin. Something about her sexy protector stirs her blood. Soon, not even the whispers that he's a dangerous demon can keep her from his bed....
NEVER BEEN BITTEN
Rumored to be a vampire, the rakish Mr. Macane is ravishing all the ladies of the ton! Yet, Miss Elspeth Ramsay cannot bring herself to tremble in his presence. But once Ellie feels the touch of his teeth at her throat, she finds herself biting him back! Surely this sudden bloodlust can only mean danger for her family--and her heart....
HIGHLAND VAMPIRE
As King of the Highland Coven, vampire Aedan MacGregor knows that falling for the fey Rowan Campbell could destroy her. But one taste of her healing blood and he craves her like no other. Dare claim her as his own, knowing he might lose her forever?
Darkly handsome and dangerously sexy, these voracious vampires are out for blood--and bound for eternal love...
DARK SECRET
Alone in the world, Murdina Dunbar sets out in search of the only family she has left--and finds an ally in the mysterious Sir Gillanders Baldwin. Something about her sexy protector stirs her blood. Soon, not even the whispers that he's a dangerous demon can keep her from his bed....
NEVER BEEN BITTEN
Rumored to be a vampire, the rakish Mr. Macane is ravishing all the ladies of the ton! Yet, Miss Elspeth Ramsay cannot bring herself to tremble in his presence. But once Ellie feels the touch of his teeth at her throat, she finds herself biting him back! Surely this sudden bloodlust can only mean danger for her family--and her heart....
HIGHLAND VAMPIRE
As King of the Highland Coven, vampire Aedan MacGregor knows that falling for the fey Rowan Campbell could destroy her. But one taste of her healing blood and he craves her like no other. Dare claim her as his own, knowing he might lose her forever?
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 28, 2012
28 people are currently reading
926 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Howell
117 books2,645 followersHannah Dustin Howell is a best-selling American author of over 40 historical romance novels. Many of her novels are set in medieval Scotland. She also writes under the names Sarah Dustin, Sandra Dustin, and Anna Jennet (see below).
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 16, 2020
I am really disappointed in Hannah Howell .. why create such a wonderful series but never write the last story wherein the mysterious Laird who is behind the hunt for our beloved MacNachtons gets his just reward ?
February 26, 2019
Once more Hannah Howell create a good paranormal fiction with lots of action, adventure, hot sex, love forever... damsels and bairns in distress, alpha males... and a great author anthology collaboration
September 8, 2012
You can find this review and more at Forever Book Lover.
Simply Yummy! I needed a break from my historical romance books, every so often I need to put them down and read a paranormal-vampire-shifter-fantasy book. The blurb on this looked like to combined both my need for paranormal but also kept my focus on historical/highlanders.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
I tried looking to see if this is a novella from an existing series but I couldn't find one. So readers, would love your help- can you let me know if this is part of a series. I just felt like I was missing something, like I jumped in the middle of an existing story, it is not that I felt unconnected, I just had this feeling there was more to the characters both primary and secondary. It was an enjoyable read, but as it ended there was sort of a cliffhanger, I didn't feel like there was resolution.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
I am writing about this second, as this was how it appears in the book I read. This was a beautiful love story- almost like the boy from the wrong side of town meets girl. So what do you do when you find yourself in love with a girl that is forbidden? Will you go against all odds to have your true love and live HEA?
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
I would say this was my favorite of the three, maybe because it had both "the ton", my hunky highlander and what's better my highlander is a vampire. (( Sigh )). Although this book was not a full novel, the author didn't make it feel rushed, but again on this one, I would like to see if there is more stories out there that tie into this one. The premise of the story is cute, a plain jane is asked to investigate the a man where woman simply fall to their feet when he enters a room, could he be a "vampire". Well in the middle of the investigation she uncovers her own personal secrets... very cute.
I enjoyed all of these books, I didn't feel any of them were rushed and put together quickly. Each author provided sufficient development of the characters, they set the background nicely, and in the end, true love prevails. Now this is a book you can sink your teeth in. Happy Reading.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Simply Yummy! I needed a break from my historical romance books, every so often I need to put them down and read a paranormal-vampire-shifter-fantasy book. The blurb on this looked like to combined both my need for paranormal but also kept my focus on historical/highlanders.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
I tried looking to see if this is a novella from an existing series but I couldn't find one. So readers, would love your help- can you let me know if this is part of a series. I just felt like I was missing something, like I jumped in the middle of an existing story, it is not that I felt unconnected, I just had this feeling there was more to the characters both primary and secondary. It was an enjoyable read, but as it ended there was sort of a cliffhanger, I didn't feel like there was resolution.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
I am writing about this second, as this was how it appears in the book I read. This was a beautiful love story- almost like the boy from the wrong side of town meets girl. So what do you do when you find yourself in love with a girl that is forbidden? Will you go against all odds to have your true love and live HEA?
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
I would say this was my favorite of the three, maybe because it had both "the ton", my hunky highlander and what's better my highlander is a vampire. (( Sigh )). Although this book was not a full novel, the author didn't make it feel rushed, but again on this one, I would like to see if there is more stories out there that tie into this one. The premise of the story is cute, a plain jane is asked to investigate the a man where woman simply fall to their feet when he enters a room, could he be a "vampire". Well in the middle of the investigation she uncovers her own personal secrets... very cute.
I enjoyed all of these books, I didn't feel any of them were rushed and put together quickly. Each author provided sufficient development of the characters, they set the background nicely, and in the end, true love prevails. Now this is a book you can sink your teeth in. Happy Reading.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2016
Dark Secrets by Hannah Howell continues the MacNachton saga of which I will not miss a single installment. Gillanders is son to Efrica and Jankyn from Highland Vampire (#2). Murdina is looking for her only remaining kin after her parents have been killed and she is being hunted as a witch. Turns out her cousin, Adeline is mated to a MacNachton (Highland Blood #7). She is currently a servant at a castle and has been ordered to spy on a guest, Gillanders, by the laird of the castle who is a hunter of vampires. This is the story of their escape and journey to the MacNachton stronghold.
In Highland Vampire by Diana Crosby, Rowan comes upon a man lying in the center of a circle of stones. He seems to be dead but he speaks to her mind and has her drag him out of the circle and into a cave. He then asks for a drop or two of blood from her finger in order to heal. Aedan senses her fey nature and struggles to overcome his feeling she is his mate since vampire and fey are forbidden to each other. This is the story of how they overcome centuries of conflict between their respective ancestors with love.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley was rife with wit. I definitely want to read more by her. This is a story of a young woman making her way in the world with a mother who isolates herself from others and leaves the daughter to make a living any way she can. She is currently using her scientific knowledge to dispel frauds and rumors. She has been hired to determine whether or not a man, whose presence causes females to faun, is a vampire or not. What she finds is more truth than she knew existed. An original idea for me. My only hesitation about this vampire story is the inability of women to fight off the lure. It seems the vampires have an ultimate power that no human can resist.
In Highland Vampire by Diana Crosby, Rowan comes upon a man lying in the center of a circle of stones. He seems to be dead but he speaks to her mind and has her drag him out of the circle and into a cave. He then asks for a drop or two of blood from her finger in order to heal. Aedan senses her fey nature and struggles to overcome his feeling she is his mate since vampire and fey are forbidden to each other. This is the story of how they overcome centuries of conflict between their respective ancestors with love.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley was rife with wit. I definitely want to read more by her. This is a story of a young woman making her way in the world with a mother who isolates herself from others and leaves the daughter to make a living any way she can. She is currently using her scientific knowledge to dispel frauds and rumors. She has been hired to determine whether or not a man, whose presence causes females to faun, is a vampire or not. What she finds is more truth than she knew existed. An original idea for me. My only hesitation about this vampire story is the inability of women to fight off the lure. It seems the vampires have an ultimate power that no human can resist.
July 29, 2012
Just finished Hannah Howell's Dark Secret. I really enjoyed this story. It was something completely new to me. Intriguing .
Tomorrow I'll be reading Diana Cosby's Highland Vampire. Looking forward to that one
August 16, 2019
So this anthology consists of three short stories. All of these stories were rushed one way or the other. The first and third stories I struggled with because there was no character development and the plot not enticing. They just fell flat. The third story was not even set in medieval Scotland but Regency England. The third story had too many secondary characters which I feel the author should have eliminated and focused on developing the main primary characters instead. Also soirees, balls, regency England era was too long and tedious I even fell asleep on this story.
My favorite is the second story : vampire and Fey. Now this one intrigued me a bit although I could not fathom how Rowan got pregnant the next day after sleeping with Aeden. I dont even think feys can get pregnant that quickly. However the plot was a refreshing one and I find I enjoyed this one best.
All of these stories had flaws. Some more than the other. I do not believe in DNF so I forced myself to finish this book. If anthologies and makes-no-sense short stories are not your cuppa tea then save yourself the time and bypass this one.
My favorite is the second story : vampire and Fey. Now this one intrigued me a bit although I could not fathom how Rowan got pregnant the next day after sleeping with Aeden. I dont even think feys can get pregnant that quickly. However the plot was a refreshing one and I find I enjoyed this one best.
All of these stories had flaws. Some more than the other. I do not believe in DNF so I forced myself to finish this book. If anthologies and makes-no-sense short stories are not your cuppa tea then save yourself the time and bypass this one.
March 5, 2018
I'm not usually a fan of short stories but picked this up because I am a fan of Hannah Howell's MacNachton Vampires, the first story Dark Secret did not disappoint and the chemistry between Murdina and Gillanders is believable. I did not enjoy Diana Cosby's Highland Vampire partly due to its brevity I did not have a chance to get to know the characters but Erica Ridley's Never Been Bitten was a refreshing twist on Vampire and Georgian romance, Elspetn an interesting heroine and Cain a worthy love interest.
February 19, 2022
I have read all of the MacNachton books by both Hannah Howell and Lyndsay Sands (who I normally read) and they are really good, I have enjoyed reading them mostly- although the last few are a bit samey. However had I realised that the very last book had never been written I am not sure I would have bothered continuing once the stories became less... Don't get me wrong, you can read them individually but there is so much in every book regarding who the MacNachton's are up against, and who could be behind it all, to not find out is very disappointing.
September 13, 2021
From Medieval Scotland to 1830s England. Three authors tell of vampires. Three of the vampires meet their mate. One vampire a vampire hunter looking for someone who had child with human and fled circumstances for two hundred years. Good read
Read
August 19, 2019Read "Dark Secret" by Hannah Howell
December 22, 2019
A guilty pleasure kind of read.
September 7, 2022
Enjoyed the stories by Howell and Cosby. Ridley's story was more "Lord of the Rings" than "Ancient Highland Vampire". Still not terrible, though.
May 20, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Good short historical paranormal stories , and enjoyable for quick reads.
Opening Sentence: The two crosses were simple, the letters carved into the wood neat but obviously done by an untrained hand.
The Review:
The Born to Bite anthology of stories are historical short stories with a laird theme. It’s always difficult for me to love anthologies. For the most part, I always want more. That was the case for this anthology. I am enjoying historicals again, and I loved that these were set in that period. This anthology is great for a weekend read, especially for those who love historical paranormal.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - Murdina Dunbar is an orphan and homeless without family, she traveled to locate her next relatives. Bad news changes Murdina’s plans, leaving her to accept a position as a maid in a local keep, Dunnantinny. She becomes assigned to be the maid of an important guest, Sir Baldwin, a dark and mysterious nobleman. Sir Baldwin holds a secret, as does Murdina, and chooses to keep his. She has no other reason, but trusts him in a way she can’t describe. Danger lurks around the corner, forcing Sir Baldwin and Murdina to run. What results is a relationship that is as warm as home.
Dark Secret was a nice read. I really enjoyed Murdina and Baldwin. For a short story, I felt I was satisfied with reading a full story. I didn’t feel like it lacked anything that I would have normally gotten from a full novel. It was interesting to see the different connections Murdina and Baldwin had. I enjoyed their relationship and conversations. It was easy, morphing into this natural progression. Great read.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby - In a ceremonial circle, Rowan Campbell discovers a dying warrior, Aedan MacGregor. Unable to resist him, she heals him with her blood, not realizing the bond they have formed. But with this act, Aedan realizes that he has found his mate. It is unheard of, breaking all of the rules. A fey and a vampire are drawn together. Rowan’s blood is dangerous, their union forbidden. Enemies would do everything to destroy this union.
I didn’t connect to Highland Vampire as much as I wanted to. It seemed rushed to me. There was so much history and lore woven into the story that it was hard to fathom the instant bond, the forbidden relationship, and the conclusion. My experience reading this could have been ruined after reading Dark Secret. The characters didn’t feel as solid and I didn’t connect. It was a good story, and I loved the potential, but for me, it didn’t fully carry out.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley - Elspeth Ramsay is a paranormal investigator. She blends in the background, often missed, observing. In the height of the Regency Era, Eslpeth is tasked to investigate a rake suspected to be a vampire. Martainn Macane is a handsome rake, elusive to the women of the ton. He nips the women, earning the nickname Lord Lovenip. He is in search for a vampire of his own, crossing paths with Elspeth. Secrets are revealed, changing Elspeth’s life and heart forever.
Never Been Bitten was a cute story. I enjoyed Elspeth. She was a wallflower, but with a bright personality. I connected so much to her and her feelings. Maccane was fun to get to know, surprising me every step of the way. Her background and setting complimented her strong characters and story, making it an enjoyable read. Ridley did a great job with this story and is worth the read.
Dark Secret – 4 stars
Highland Vampires – 3 stars
Never Been Bitten – 4 stars
FTC Advisory: Kensington provided me with a copy of Born to Bite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Good short historical paranormal stories , and enjoyable for quick reads.
Opening Sentence: The two crosses were simple, the letters carved into the wood neat but obviously done by an untrained hand.
The Review:
The Born to Bite anthology of stories are historical short stories with a laird theme. It’s always difficult for me to love anthologies. For the most part, I always want more. That was the case for this anthology. I am enjoying historicals again, and I loved that these were set in that period. This anthology is great for a weekend read, especially for those who love historical paranormal.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - Murdina Dunbar is an orphan and homeless without family, she traveled to locate her next relatives. Bad news changes Murdina’s plans, leaving her to accept a position as a maid in a local keep, Dunnantinny. She becomes assigned to be the maid of an important guest, Sir Baldwin, a dark and mysterious nobleman. Sir Baldwin holds a secret, as does Murdina, and chooses to keep his. She has no other reason, but trusts him in a way she can’t describe. Danger lurks around the corner, forcing Sir Baldwin and Murdina to run. What results is a relationship that is as warm as home.
Dark Secret was a nice read. I really enjoyed Murdina and Baldwin. For a short story, I felt I was satisfied with reading a full story. I didn’t feel like it lacked anything that I would have normally gotten from a full novel. It was interesting to see the different connections Murdina and Baldwin had. I enjoyed their relationship and conversations. It was easy, morphing into this natural progression. Great read.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby - In a ceremonial circle, Rowan Campbell discovers a dying warrior, Aedan MacGregor. Unable to resist him, she heals him with her blood, not realizing the bond they have formed. But with this act, Aedan realizes that he has found his mate. It is unheard of, breaking all of the rules. A fey and a vampire are drawn together. Rowan’s blood is dangerous, their union forbidden. Enemies would do everything to destroy this union.
I didn’t connect to Highland Vampire as much as I wanted to. It seemed rushed to me. There was so much history and lore woven into the story that it was hard to fathom the instant bond, the forbidden relationship, and the conclusion. My experience reading this could have been ruined after reading Dark Secret. The characters didn’t feel as solid and I didn’t connect. It was a good story, and I loved the potential, but for me, it didn’t fully carry out.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley - Elspeth Ramsay is a paranormal investigator. She blends in the background, often missed, observing. In the height of the Regency Era, Eslpeth is tasked to investigate a rake suspected to be a vampire. Martainn Macane is a handsome rake, elusive to the women of the ton. He nips the women, earning the nickname Lord Lovenip. He is in search for a vampire of his own, crossing paths with Elspeth. Secrets are revealed, changing Elspeth’s life and heart forever.
Never Been Bitten was a cute story. I enjoyed Elspeth. She was a wallflower, but with a bright personality. I connected so much to her and her feelings. Maccane was fun to get to know, surprising me every step of the way. Her background and setting complimented her strong characters and story, making it an enjoyable read. Ridley did a great job with this story and is worth the read.
Dark Secret – 4 stars
Highland Vampires – 3 stars
Never Been Bitten – 4 stars
FTC Advisory: Kensington provided me with a copy of Born to Bite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
August 28, 2012
"Born to Bite" is a sensual supernatural anthology featuring stories from talented authors Hannah Howell, Diana Cosby, and Erica Ridley. Early 1500's Scotland is the setting for Hannah Howell's "Dark Secret". Murdina Dunbar, homeless and without family, travels far to find her aunt and uncle. Hoping to meet up with some cousins too, she finds her aunt and uncle have passed away, and all her hopes for a family reunion are buried along with them in a cold, windy graveyard. With nowhere else to turn, Murdina accepts a position as a maid in the local keep, working hard and trying to find out about her cousin Adeline. Chosen to be the personal maid for the handsome and mysterious Sir Baldwin, Murdina finds herself irresistibly drawn to the darkly appealing nobleman. Sir Baldwin is actually Gillanders MacNachton, staying at the keep in hopes of finding out who murdered a member of his clan. Gillanders is no mere mortal, and Murdina has a secret of her own: she can read the thoughts of others. Realizing Murdina is his fated mate, he wonders if she will accept his true nature. Others do not wish for a happy ending for these two, and much mayhem is about in the keep. Gillanders and Murdina are more connected than they could have imagined, and it is a perilous bond indeed. Medieval Scotland is the era for Diana Cosby's "Highland Vampire". Drawn to a ceremonial stone circle by a compelling voice invading her mind, Rowan Campbell discovers a dying warrior. Aedan MacGregor, Laird of the Highland Vampire Coven, has been betrayed and left to burn in the searing rays of the rising sun. Unable to resist his allure, Rowan leads Aedan to the safety and darkness of a cave, and later allows him to drink a few drops of her blood to restore his strength. With the first taste of the heady and precious life-giving elixir, Aedan knows that he has found his destined mate. However, they learn that Rowan is a witch and the granddaughter of the Fairy Queen of the Underworld, and their union is not only forbidden, it is dangerous. Becoming a vampire could prove fatal to Rowan, and Aedan's enemies will do all in their power to destroy the Laird and his Lady Love. Erica Ridley's "Never Been Bitten" takes place in England at the twilight of the Regency Era. Miss Elspeth Ramsay, seemingly spinsterish societal miss, is also a paranormal investigator. Accepting assignments from the wealthy and willy-nilly, she finds herself at loss when faced with a genuine vampire. Martainn Macane, known as "Cain", is a highland warrior on a mission to find the runaway bride of his laird. The search has lasted for over two hundred years, and Cain has become known as "Lord Lovenip", an "is he or isn't he" rogue known for leaving lovenips on the necks of society beauties--all the better to seek out the elusive bridal escapee. When Elspeth bites him, all preconceived notions fly away on night-wings, and Elspeth will soon learn that her life has been a lie, and she is far from a normal young lady. Can it be that Cain will find the love and happiness so long denied him as he closes in on his prey? After reading "Born to Bite" you will definitely sleep with a nightlight burning--not because you are afraid of the dark, but because you are hoping for a nibble!
Review Copy Gratis Kensington Books
Review Copy Gratis Kensington Books
May 14, 2013
Posted on Dark Faerie Tales.
The Born to Bite anthology of stories are historical short stories with a laird theme. It’s always difficult for me to love anthologies. For the most part, I always want more. That was the case for this anthology. I am enjoying historicals again, and I loved that these were set in that period. This anthology is great for a weekend read, especially for those who love historical paranormal.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - Murdina Dunbar is an orphan and homeless without family, she traveled to locate her next relatives. Bad news changes Murdina’s plans, leaving her to accept a position as a maid in a local keep, Dunnantinny. She becomes assigned to be the maid of an important guest, Sir Baldwin, a dark and mysterious nobleman. Sir Baldwin holds a secret, as does Murdina, and chooses to keep his. She has no other reason, but trusts him in a way she can’t describe. Danger lurks around the corner, forcing Sir Baldwin and Murdina to run. What results is a relationship that is as warm as home.
Dark Secret was a nice read. I really enjoyed Murdina and Baldwin. For a short story, I felt I was satisfied with reading a full story. I didn’t feel like it lacked anything that I would have normally gotten from a full novel. It was interesting to see the different connections Murdina and Baldwin had. I enjoyed their relationship and conversations. It was easy, morphing into this natural progression. Great read.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby - In a ceremonial circle, Rowan Campbell discovers a dying warrior, Aedan MacGregor. Unable to resist him, she heals him with her blood, not realizing the bond they have formed. But with this act, Aedan realizes that he has found his mate.. It is unheard of, breaking all of the rules. A fey and a vampire are drawn together. Rowan’s blood is dangerous, their union forbidden. Enemies would do everything to destroy this union.
I didn’t connect to this as much as I wanted to. It seemed rushed to me. There was so much history and lore woven into the story that it was hard to fathom the instant bond, the forbidden relationship, and the conclusion. My experience reading this could have been ruined after reading Dark Secret. The characters didn’t feel as solid and I didn’t connect. It was a good story, and I loved the potential, but for me, it didn’t fully carry out.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley - Elspeth Ramsay is a paranormal investigator. She blends in the background, often missed, observing. In the height of the Regency Era, Eslpeth is tasked to investigate a rake suspected to be a vampire. Martainn Macane is a handsome rake, elusive to the women of the ton. He nips the women, earning the nickname Lord Lovenip. He is in search for a vampire of his own, crossing paths with Elspeth. Secrets are revealed, changing Elspeth’s life and heart forever.
This was a cute story. I enjoyed Elspeth. She was a wallflower, but with a bright personality. I connected so much to her and her feelings. Maccane was fun to get to know, surprising me every step of the way. Her background and setting complimented her strong characters and story, making it an enjoyable read. Ridley did a great job with this story and is worth the read.
The Born to Bite anthology of stories are historical short stories with a laird theme. It’s always difficult for me to love anthologies. For the most part, I always want more. That was the case for this anthology. I am enjoying historicals again, and I loved that these were set in that period. This anthology is great for a weekend read, especially for those who love historical paranormal.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - Murdina Dunbar is an orphan and homeless without family, she traveled to locate her next relatives. Bad news changes Murdina’s plans, leaving her to accept a position as a maid in a local keep, Dunnantinny. She becomes assigned to be the maid of an important guest, Sir Baldwin, a dark and mysterious nobleman. Sir Baldwin holds a secret, as does Murdina, and chooses to keep his. She has no other reason, but trusts him in a way she can’t describe. Danger lurks around the corner, forcing Sir Baldwin and Murdina to run. What results is a relationship that is as warm as home.
Dark Secret was a nice read. I really enjoyed Murdina and Baldwin. For a short story, I felt I was satisfied with reading a full story. I didn’t feel like it lacked anything that I would have normally gotten from a full novel. It was interesting to see the different connections Murdina and Baldwin had. I enjoyed their relationship and conversations. It was easy, morphing into this natural progression. Great read.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby - In a ceremonial circle, Rowan Campbell discovers a dying warrior, Aedan MacGregor. Unable to resist him, she heals him with her blood, not realizing the bond they have formed. But with this act, Aedan realizes that he has found his mate.. It is unheard of, breaking all of the rules. A fey and a vampire are drawn together. Rowan’s blood is dangerous, their union forbidden. Enemies would do everything to destroy this union.
I didn’t connect to this as much as I wanted to. It seemed rushed to me. There was so much history and lore woven into the story that it was hard to fathom the instant bond, the forbidden relationship, and the conclusion. My experience reading this could have been ruined after reading Dark Secret. The characters didn’t feel as solid and I didn’t connect. It was a good story, and I loved the potential, but for me, it didn’t fully carry out.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley - Elspeth Ramsay is a paranormal investigator. She blends in the background, often missed, observing. In the height of the Regency Era, Eslpeth is tasked to investigate a rake suspected to be a vampire. Martainn Macane is a handsome rake, elusive to the women of the ton. He nips the women, earning the nickname Lord Lovenip. He is in search for a vampire of his own, crossing paths with Elspeth. Secrets are revealed, changing Elspeth’s life and heart forever.
This was a cute story. I enjoyed Elspeth. She was a wallflower, but with a bright personality. I connected so much to her and her feelings. Maccane was fun to get to know, surprising me every step of the way. Her background and setting complimented her strong characters and story, making it an enjoyable read. Ridley did a great job with this story and is worth the read.
March 18, 2013
Because I felt so different about each of the stories in this highlander vampire romance anthology, I have to rate them separately, there is just no other way to review this. Overall, I'll give the anthology as a whole 3 Stars.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
4 Stars
I enjoyed this story, enough that I added the first book in the series that this story is a part of to my to-read list. Despite an instant attraction, both parties hold off any action and declarations of love for at least a week or two, and only when their lives are threatened do they run off together. The love story, although only 80 pages long and of the paranormal variety, felt plausible in the given time frame. Also, although the short story hinted at a lot more conflicts and loose ends in the story the series is trying to tell, the story of how the two main characters of this short story found each other and fell in love is complete.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
1 Star
How do you get magical vampires, half-feys, witch hunters, an evil cousin, an ancient curse, a pissed off fey queen, and babies in an 80 page story? By seriously compromising the story. Okay, so within two days (half of which was spent sleeping), these two have not only become soul mates and declared undying love for one another, but the girl is already with child? Add two more days and they've out-smarted witch hunters, defeated the big bad guy, risked war with another race and then squashed the threat of war. Let's not forget that the male starts off forcing the girl to do his bidding with mind-control and bullying her, so I am not so sure I am on his side. On top of the mind-control he can also conjure fire and vanish in a puff of smoke only to reappear in another location untold miles away. Add to that I felt almost no amount of emotion or feeling in the words I was reading and it all adds up to the fact that I had trouble getting through this whole story. On a side note, the time line in this story seemed seriously messed up. I could never figure out if it was night or day or how much time had passed because one paragraph would say something to the effect of "approaching night" and in the next paragraph they are looking out at the moonlit night. UGH!
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
4 Stars
I enjoyed this story immensely. Maybe it was because it is a paranormal romance set in Regency England, maybe it was the writing, maybe it was the story, I don't know; I just know I thoroughly enjoyed it and have added more books by this author to my to-read list. My only gripe might be that it was too short. I loved all these characters and would have enjoyed more time in their company. On a side note, all the intimate scenes in this book, be it just stolen kisses or love making, are much spicier than the previous two stories. I found myself holding my breath more than once.
*** I won this book through Goodreads First Reads
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
4 Stars
I enjoyed this story, enough that I added the first book in the series that this story is a part of to my to-read list. Despite an instant attraction, both parties hold off any action and declarations of love for at least a week or two, and only when their lives are threatened do they run off together. The love story, although only 80 pages long and of the paranormal variety, felt plausible in the given time frame. Also, although the short story hinted at a lot more conflicts and loose ends in the story the series is trying to tell, the story of how the two main characters of this short story found each other and fell in love is complete.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
1 Star
How do you get magical vampires, half-feys, witch hunters, an evil cousin, an ancient curse, a pissed off fey queen, and babies in an 80 page story? By seriously compromising the story. Okay, so within two days (half of which was spent sleeping), these two have not only become soul mates and declared undying love for one another, but the girl is already with child? Add two more days and they've out-smarted witch hunters, defeated the big bad guy, risked war with another race and then squashed the threat of war. Let's not forget that the male starts off forcing the girl to do his bidding with mind-control and bullying her, so I am not so sure I am on his side. On top of the mind-control he can also conjure fire and vanish in a puff of smoke only to reappear in another location untold miles away. Add to that I felt almost no amount of emotion or feeling in the words I was reading and it all adds up to the fact that I had trouble getting through this whole story. On a side note, the time line in this story seemed seriously messed up. I could never figure out if it was night or day or how much time had passed because one paragraph would say something to the effect of "approaching night" and in the next paragraph they are looking out at the moonlit night. UGH!
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
4 Stars
I enjoyed this story immensely. Maybe it was because it is a paranormal romance set in Regency England, maybe it was the writing, maybe it was the story, I don't know; I just know I thoroughly enjoyed it and have added more books by this author to my to-read list. My only gripe might be that it was too short. I loved all these characters and would have enjoyed more time in their company. On a side note, all the intimate scenes in this book, be it just stolen kisses or love making, are much spicier than the previous two stories. I found myself holding my breath more than once.
*** I won this book through Goodreads First Reads
October 25, 2012
Born to Bite a collection of historical short reads Dark Secret from Hannah Howell, who tells a tale of orphan Murdina Dunbar who meets her Dark Lord posing as Sir Gillanders Baldwin while working as his maid per the lady of the house instructions. Both most flee the castle together and find out each other’s true nature along the way.
Bookswagger Marcia: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. I was really invested in Dark Secret, it did not read like a short story Mrs. Howell gave it her all. I loved the peak the story gave us into the wellbeing of the MacNachtons. Murdina was a brave woman making her own way in a time that almost never happened. Sir Gillanders (read to find out his true identity) was a great and protective hero what we all want in our dark vampire heroes.
Bookswagger Danielle: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. I liked the mix of vampirism and emotions, I found it to be an interesting combination. The chemistry between Murdina and Gillanders was instantaneous and believable.
The second story is Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby. King of the Highland Coven of vampires Aedan Macgregor has finally met his mate. He assumed she was human but later discovered she was part fae. The penalty for turning a fae is immediate death but his enemies may leave him little choice.
Bookswagger Marcia: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. This story had me truly invested, we spent almost the entire read with the couple, with a few complications which made the plot extra juicy, very well done especially in a short story. I mean we have fae, vampires, plots to overthrow the throne and people trying to kill a witch. This was an exciting read.
Bookswagger Danielle: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. This was hands down my favorite story in Born to Bite. I found I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to shake Rowan sometimes for not listening.
Born to Bite is wrapped up by Erica Ridley’s Never Been Bitten. Miss Elspeth Ramsay is not like other ladies of the ton, she investigates paranormal activities for the coin, the idle rich have to waste. She is investigating rumored vampire Mr. Macane. During her investigation she discovers vampires are real and even more about herself and her heritage, all while falling for Mr. Macane the Highlander, hunter for his people.
Bookswagger Marcia: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. I enjoyed Never Been Bitten but it was not as strong as the other stories in Born to Bite. The concept was one I was excited to read about though. I love vampires in regency settings, we always read about them in today’s time and get glimpses of their past with this story we get to see them living the life.
Bookswagger Danielle: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. This story had me on the fence. Ellie was smart (nerds rule) so I found it hard to believe it took her so long to come to the big “realization”. Coupled with what I felt was an abrupt ending made me like it not love it.
Bookswagger Marcia: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. I was really invested in Dark Secret, it did not read like a short story Mrs. Howell gave it her all. I loved the peak the story gave us into the wellbeing of the MacNachtons. Murdina was a brave woman making her own way in a time that almost never happened. Sir Gillanders (read to find out his true identity) was a great and protective hero what we all want in our dark vampire heroes.
Bookswagger Danielle: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. I liked the mix of vampirism and emotions, I found it to be an interesting combination. The chemistry between Murdina and Gillanders was instantaneous and believable.
The second story is Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby. King of the Highland Coven of vampires Aedan Macgregor has finally met his mate. He assumed she was human but later discovered she was part fae. The penalty for turning a fae is immediate death but his enemies may leave him little choice.
Bookswagger Marcia: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. This story had me truly invested, we spent almost the entire read with the couple, with a few complications which made the plot extra juicy, very well done especially in a short story. I mean we have fae, vampires, plots to overthrow the throne and people trying to kill a witch. This was an exciting read.
Bookswagger Danielle: Four crowns, good read on the way to swagger. This was hands down my favorite story in Born to Bite. I found I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to shake Rowan sometimes for not listening.
Born to Bite is wrapped up by Erica Ridley’s Never Been Bitten. Miss Elspeth Ramsay is not like other ladies of the ton, she investigates paranormal activities for the coin, the idle rich have to waste. She is investigating rumored vampire Mr. Macane. During her investigation she discovers vampires are real and even more about herself and her heritage, all while falling for Mr. Macane the Highlander, hunter for his people.
Bookswagger Marcia: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. I enjoyed Never Been Bitten but it was not as strong as the other stories in Born to Bite. The concept was one I was excited to read about though. I love vampires in regency settings, we always read about them in today’s time and get glimpses of their past with this story we get to see them living the life.
Bookswagger Danielle: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. This story had me on the fence. Ellie was smart (nerds rule) so I found it hard to believe it took her so long to come to the big “realization”. Coupled with what I felt was an abrupt ending made me like it not love it.
August 31, 2012
Born To Bite is a collection of three stories and is schedule for release on August 28 2012. The three romance stories feature vampires. Dark Secret by Hannah Howell unites a woman alone in the world with a vampire looking for the hunters that killed his cousin. Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby introduces a healer hunted by those that want to burn her far witchcraft to a vampire laird that has been betrayed. Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley brings together a rakish vampire sampling the ton with an intelligent lady on the brink of disaster.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell is the first story in Born to Bite. Murdina Dunbar is alone in the world and looking for her cousin. In her search she hears gossip and ugly rumors of witchcraft and demons. While working as a maid to fund her search Murdina is assigned to wait on a guest to the keep, one Sir Gillanders Baldwin. Rumors about this mysterious stranger arise, and Murdina gambles her own safety and hopes to find family to protect a man that might just live up to the rumors that swirl around him.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby is the second story. In this tale Rowan Campbell is fleeing her home, where she has been accused of witchcraft because of her skill as a healer. She comes across a man, still and looking dead, in the center of a stone circle. That man is Aedan MacGregor, a vampire that has been poisoned and left for dead in the name of ambition. They each have danger at their heels, but Rowan's blood hides a secret that could doom their relationship before it fully develops.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley brings up the story of bluestocking Miss Elspeth Ramsay , who tends to disappear in to the background. When she is hired by a society miss to investigate a man suspected to be a vampire her life it turned upside down. Mr. Macane is a rake taking nips at the necks of society as he searches for a fugitive vampire. When Macane and Elspeth cross paths he initially mistakes her for his quarry, but then believes her to be a victim. Elspeth's developing bloodlust and her mother's secrets mean danger to Elspeth and her heart.
All three stories are solid paranormal romance. The characters and story lines are well developed to fit the specific length needed for this compilation. There was no one story that was lacking, although I though the ending of Never Been Bitten was a little too quick, even though Elspeth was a great character. There was no story that stood out as the best either. Born to Bite is a good collection of well-matched stories, which compliment each other and are on par with each other.
Born to Bite is a good compilation of vampire romance stories. None of the stories distinguish themselves as the best, or as fantastic, but they will satisfy the craving for historic vampires finding true love.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell is the first story in Born to Bite. Murdina Dunbar is alone in the world and looking for her cousin. In her search she hears gossip and ugly rumors of witchcraft and demons. While working as a maid to fund her search Murdina is assigned to wait on a guest to the keep, one Sir Gillanders Baldwin. Rumors about this mysterious stranger arise, and Murdina gambles her own safety and hopes to find family to protect a man that might just live up to the rumors that swirl around him.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby is the second story. In this tale Rowan Campbell is fleeing her home, where she has been accused of witchcraft because of her skill as a healer. She comes across a man, still and looking dead, in the center of a stone circle. That man is Aedan MacGregor, a vampire that has been poisoned and left for dead in the name of ambition. They each have danger at their heels, but Rowan's blood hides a secret that could doom their relationship before it fully develops.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley brings up the story of bluestocking Miss Elspeth Ramsay , who tends to disappear in to the background. When she is hired by a society miss to investigate a man suspected to be a vampire her life it turned upside down. Mr. Macane is a rake taking nips at the necks of society as he searches for a fugitive vampire. When Macane and Elspeth cross paths he initially mistakes her for his quarry, but then believes her to be a victim. Elspeth's developing bloodlust and her mother's secrets mean danger to Elspeth and her heart.
All three stories are solid paranormal romance. The characters and story lines are well developed to fit the specific length needed for this compilation. There was no one story that was lacking, although I though the ending of Never Been Bitten was a little too quick, even though Elspeth was a great character. There was no story that stood out as the best either. Born to Bite is a good collection of well-matched stories, which compliment each other and are on par with each other.
Born to Bite is a good compilation of vampire romance stories. None of the stories distinguish themselves as the best, or as fantastic, but they will satisfy the craving for historic vampires finding true love.
October 18, 2012
A Taste of Love!
Born to Bite is a collaboration of three short stories containing a Vampire flavor that will certainly set you into a deliciously Halloween mindset! These stories of love composed by best selling author Hannah Howell, Diana Cosby and Erica Ridley and will leave you wanting more from each of them. In Hannah Howell’s “Dark Secret”, Murdina Dunbar finds herself on a lonely journey to find the last of her family, a cousin she has never met a woman travelling alone with no money must not only seek shelter but the means in which to finance her travels. Taking a position as a maid in the holdings of a Laird in the area Murdina believes her cousin was last known to live, she will bide her time while secretly gathering information that may point her in the right direction. The sudden appearance of a mysterious nobleman and Murdina’s press to service into seeing to his all is worldly needs, may soon prove to ensnare her as an unwitting pawn in an unexplained web of deception. In Diana Cosby’s “Highland Vampire”, Rowan Campbell in a literal run for her life from the villagers who wish to put her to death, certain she is a witch stumbles in the darkness upon a lone form within a circle of stone. Her extra sensitive mind appears drawn by some unseen force as she tries to flee back to safety within the forest. A voice in her head holds her captive and she has no choice but to move ahead where she soon discovers is the ever still body of a naked man. Fearing discovery, as the villagers are ever close behind, Rowan hears the words of promise that protection will be given if she but assists the stranger in her midst. Questioning what nature of man lies before her and the circumstances that have placed him in this position are not enough to keep her from extending her arms and reaching for him. In Erica Ridley’s “Never Been Bitten”, Ms. Elspeth Ramsay calmly scrutinizes from a far corner the guests attending the lavish ball before her. Elspeth is not at this High Society party as an invited guest, but as a woman with a job to do. Unbeknownst to the people around her who happen to take no notice of the inconspicuous Elspeth, is a woman who makes a living watching and reporting her observations to those who commission her. As expected, her quarry soon arrives and Elspeth will see for herself if the elusive and extraordinarily handsome Martainn Macane, also known throughout the Ton as “Lord Lovenip” is in fact the vampire her benefactress believes he is. As Martainn’s impossibly bright sea-green eyes gaze across the crowded room to stare directly at her, Elspeth wonders if this time she has taken on an assignment that may be her undoing! These stories are sure to provoke thoughts of decadence.
Born to Bite is a collaboration of three short stories containing a Vampire flavor that will certainly set you into a deliciously Halloween mindset! These stories of love composed by best selling author Hannah Howell, Diana Cosby and Erica Ridley and will leave you wanting more from each of them. In Hannah Howell’s “Dark Secret”, Murdina Dunbar finds herself on a lonely journey to find the last of her family, a cousin she has never met a woman travelling alone with no money must not only seek shelter but the means in which to finance her travels. Taking a position as a maid in the holdings of a Laird in the area Murdina believes her cousin was last known to live, she will bide her time while secretly gathering information that may point her in the right direction. The sudden appearance of a mysterious nobleman and Murdina’s press to service into seeing to his all is worldly needs, may soon prove to ensnare her as an unwitting pawn in an unexplained web of deception. In Diana Cosby’s “Highland Vampire”, Rowan Campbell in a literal run for her life from the villagers who wish to put her to death, certain she is a witch stumbles in the darkness upon a lone form within a circle of stone. Her extra sensitive mind appears drawn by some unseen force as she tries to flee back to safety within the forest. A voice in her head holds her captive and she has no choice but to move ahead where she soon discovers is the ever still body of a naked man. Fearing discovery, as the villagers are ever close behind, Rowan hears the words of promise that protection will be given if she but assists the stranger in her midst. Questioning what nature of man lies before her and the circumstances that have placed him in this position are not enough to keep her from extending her arms and reaching for him. In Erica Ridley’s “Never Been Bitten”, Ms. Elspeth Ramsay calmly scrutinizes from a far corner the guests attending the lavish ball before her. Elspeth is not at this High Society party as an invited guest, but as a woman with a job to do. Unbeknownst to the people around her who happen to take no notice of the inconspicuous Elspeth, is a woman who makes a living watching and reporting her observations to those who commission her. As expected, her quarry soon arrives and Elspeth will see for herself if the elusive and extraordinarily handsome Martainn Macane, also known throughout the Ton as “Lord Lovenip” is in fact the vampire her benefactress believes he is. As Martainn’s impossibly bright sea-green eyes gaze across the crowded room to stare directly at her, Elspeth wonders if this time she has taken on an assignment that may be her undoing! These stories are sure to provoke thoughts of decadence.
September 5, 2012
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
Murdina was in search of the only family she had left when she stumbled upon the devilishly handsome Sir Gillanders. Try as she might to stay away from him she finds she can't not keep away. When she hears men planning his murder its spurs her into action, giving her no choice but to leave with him.
This was a good story. Good compatible characters and a good love story. Plenty of steamy scenes and a good amount of romance. The overall story was entertaining and engaging. I've found that the few stories I have read in the past I read by Hannah Howell I have also enjoyed a lot.
My rating 4
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
In a rush to flee the towns people (aka lynch mob) that branded her a witch and now chase u to kill her Rowan runs across a naked man whom is obviously injured. Compelled to help the naked man she pulls him away from the stones only to find herself in the arm of a real life vampire.
After being saved by the beautiful woman Aedan finds he has just stumbled upon his destined mate something he has searched long time for. But fate has a wicked since of humor not only is she human and will live only a humans life span she is also faye and ancient law prohibit the turning of a faye, or risk death buy the faye queen.
This story was very intriguing it had lots of trials to overcome but it made the story very entertaining. I’m not normally a huge faye fan but the faye twist was an interesting one.
My rating 3.5
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
Ellie was just supposed to go in and prove or disprove miss Breckenridges clam of Mr Macane being a blood sucking vampire. But once she meet the striking gentleman she found she didn't care one way or another as long as he kept his attentions on her. But the more time spent in Cains presents the more changes Ellie found her body making, the biggest change would be the fangs the suddenly appeared after a heated kiss with Mr. Macane.
This was a good story the outline of it was interesting. I just felt it took a little too long to get there. All stories need some description and narration but this one seem to have a bit too much for my likening and not enough dialog. I felt the ending was a bit lack luster as well. I thought the overall concept of the story was entertaining but it missed the mark for me in the end.
My rating 2.5
Overall Rating: 3.5 stars
- Athenna
Murdina was in search of the only family she had left when she stumbled upon the devilishly handsome Sir Gillanders. Try as she might to stay away from him she finds she can't not keep away. When she hears men planning his murder its spurs her into action, giving her no choice but to leave with him.
This was a good story. Good compatible characters and a good love story. Plenty of steamy scenes and a good amount of romance. The overall story was entertaining and engaging. I've found that the few stories I have read in the past I read by Hannah Howell I have also enjoyed a lot.
My rating 4
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
In a rush to flee the towns people (aka lynch mob) that branded her a witch and now chase u to kill her Rowan runs across a naked man whom is obviously injured. Compelled to help the naked man she pulls him away from the stones only to find herself in the arm of a real life vampire.
After being saved by the beautiful woman Aedan finds he has just stumbled upon his destined mate something he has searched long time for. But fate has a wicked since of humor not only is she human and will live only a humans life span she is also faye and ancient law prohibit the turning of a faye, or risk death buy the faye queen.
This story was very intriguing it had lots of trials to overcome but it made the story very entertaining. I’m not normally a huge faye fan but the faye twist was an interesting one.
My rating 3.5
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
Ellie was just supposed to go in and prove or disprove miss Breckenridges clam of Mr Macane being a blood sucking vampire. But once she meet the striking gentleman she found she didn't care one way or another as long as he kept his attentions on her. But the more time spent in Cains presents the more changes Ellie found her body making, the biggest change would be the fangs the suddenly appeared after a heated kiss with Mr. Macane.
This was a good story the outline of it was interesting. I just felt it took a little too long to get there. All stories need some description and narration but this one seem to have a bit too much for my likening and not enough dialog. I felt the ending was a bit lack luster as well. I thought the overall concept of the story was entertaining but it missed the mark for me in the end.
My rating 2.5
Overall Rating: 3.5 stars
- Athenna
August 28, 2012
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
First up was DARK SECRET by Hannah Howell, the latest story in her MacNachton Vampire series. The story was very, very similar the the previous MacNachton Vampire novella from the anthology HIGHLAND HUNGER. In both novellas, a MacNachton vampire goes on the run with a women through a forest. While fleeing from enemies, they fall in love, destroy the bad guys then he backs off when they reach safety thinking she doesn’t want him. The women from his family reassure her, she marches up to him and calls him out, he marks her as his mate and then it’s off to plan the wedding. The initial set up differs, but it’s basically the same story following the exact same structure. The writing is expressive and the characters well drawn, but I was hoping for something completely new. This wasn’t it. Rating: 2/5
Then there was HIGHLAND VAMPIRE by Diana Cosby. A woman finds a naked man and is compelled to drag him into a nearby cave where he reveals himself to be a vampire. He instantly recognizes her as his mate:
“…I want you overmuch.”
“Never before have I wanted a man…Never have I lain with a man. But against all I have taught, against my beliefs. I want you.”
That’s the extent of their romance. What followed was a comically awkward sex scene full of oddly obvious statements like, ‘I am naked…I am going to kiss you…I am going to make love to you.’ I gave up on this one. Rating: DNF
The last story was the longest, and fortunately the best. NEVER BEEN BITTEN by Erica Ridley was very reminiscent of Gail Carriger’s Parasol Protectorate series with a ‘spinster’ woman with a head for science is hired to confirm that a certain gentlemen is secretly a vampire. The first two thirds of the story was delightful as Elspeth and Cain exchanged witty banter and tried to outsmart each other. The ending was a little busy for a novella and several things felt rushed especially the resolution of the romance. Had this been a full length novel, I think this would have been a 4/5 easily. At this length, however, the story was rushed. Rating: 3/5
Sexual Content:
Moderately graphic sex scenes.
First up was DARK SECRET by Hannah Howell, the latest story in her MacNachton Vampire series. The story was very, very similar the the previous MacNachton Vampire novella from the anthology HIGHLAND HUNGER. In both novellas, a MacNachton vampire goes on the run with a women through a forest. While fleeing from enemies, they fall in love, destroy the bad guys then he backs off when they reach safety thinking she doesn’t want him. The women from his family reassure her, she marches up to him and calls him out, he marks her as his mate and then it’s off to plan the wedding. The initial set up differs, but it’s basically the same story following the exact same structure. The writing is expressive and the characters well drawn, but I was hoping for something completely new. This wasn’t it. Rating: 2/5
Then there was HIGHLAND VAMPIRE by Diana Cosby. A woman finds a naked man and is compelled to drag him into a nearby cave where he reveals himself to be a vampire. He instantly recognizes her as his mate:
“…I want you overmuch.”
“Never before have I wanted a man…Never have I lain with a man. But against all I have taught, against my beliefs. I want you.”
That’s the extent of their romance. What followed was a comically awkward sex scene full of oddly obvious statements like, ‘I am naked…I am going to kiss you…I am going to make love to you.’ I gave up on this one. Rating: DNF
The last story was the longest, and fortunately the best. NEVER BEEN BITTEN by Erica Ridley was very reminiscent of Gail Carriger’s Parasol Protectorate series with a ‘spinster’ woman with a head for science is hired to confirm that a certain gentlemen is secretly a vampire. The first two thirds of the story was delightful as Elspeth and Cain exchanged witty banter and tried to outsmart each other. The ending was a little busy for a novella and several things felt rushed especially the resolution of the romance. Had this been a full length novel, I think this would have been a 4/5 easily. At this length, however, the story was rushed. Rating: 3/5
Sexual Content:
Moderately graphic sex scenes.
August 27, 2012
You know how at times when you get a book of short stories/novellas you only love one... like a second one and really dislike a third? Or you love one and dislike the other 2? This thankfully wasn't one of those times. While I didn't love love love any of them they were all nice quick reads and are worth the time you'll need to read them.
Dark Secret - Hannah Howell:
Murdina is desperately trying to find the only family she has left and is trying to hide her psychic power lest she be condemned as a witch like her other family members. She meets a mysterious man and is compelled to help him keep his secrets from other members of the household she is employed by. This results in her running away with him to his homeland and discovering the love of her life plus a sense of home and belonging she didn't have anywhere else. This was a nice quick read and I would like to maybe read more set in this world.
Never Been Bitten - Erica Ridley:
This was sort of fun... Vampire sent to bring back a rogue vampiress who unknowingly has a daughter. It was fun seeing the daughter come in to her birthright and meet the man who would give up his position to be with her. You see she isn't supposed to exist and the culture in place at home would demand her death rather than letting her live in peace. He is sufficiently hot and watching the dance between the pair was entertaining. Oh and add the whole appearances in front of the ton and you have a recipe for a bit of humor because heaven forbid you have anything other than perfect manners or want to be more than just a flighty female. :-)
Highland Vampire - Diana Cosby:
Interesting premise in this one... Fey and Vampire do not mix but in this one you have a Fey and Vampire who are drawn together despite it being a huge no-no. Aedan was hugely protective and loved watching him decide he would take whatever punishment his need to save Rowan would bring down on him but she is his dammit. Nice sexy read without being too little story too much sex.
Overall I enjoyed the 3 stories and will keep an eye out for more from the authors.
Special thanks to NetGalley.com and Kensington for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest review.
Dark Secret - Hannah Howell:
Murdina is desperately trying to find the only family she has left and is trying to hide her psychic power lest she be condemned as a witch like her other family members. She meets a mysterious man and is compelled to help him keep his secrets from other members of the household she is employed by. This results in her running away with him to his homeland and discovering the love of her life plus a sense of home and belonging she didn't have anywhere else. This was a nice quick read and I would like to maybe read more set in this world.
Never Been Bitten - Erica Ridley:
This was sort of fun... Vampire sent to bring back a rogue vampiress who unknowingly has a daughter. It was fun seeing the daughter come in to her birthright and meet the man who would give up his position to be with her. You see she isn't supposed to exist and the culture in place at home would demand her death rather than letting her live in peace. He is sufficiently hot and watching the dance between the pair was entertaining. Oh and add the whole appearances in front of the ton and you have a recipe for a bit of humor because heaven forbid you have anything other than perfect manners or want to be more than just a flighty female. :-)
Highland Vampire - Diana Cosby:
Interesting premise in this one... Fey and Vampire do not mix but in this one you have a Fey and Vampire who are drawn together despite it being a huge no-no. Aedan was hugely protective and loved watching him decide he would take whatever punishment his need to save Rowan would bring down on him but she is his dammit. Nice sexy read without being too little story too much sex.
Overall I enjoyed the 3 stories and will keep an eye out for more from the authors.
Special thanks to NetGalley.com and Kensington for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest review.
October 6, 2012
I received a copy of this book from Kensington for a honest review. It is a collection of three stories from authors Hannah Howell, Erica Ridley and Diana Cosby. All three stories have a tale of love and vampires and are all very enjoyable. If you like several stories in one book that are a quick read I would say pick this one up.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
In this story Murdina is trying to work and make money in order to find what family she has left. She takes work as a maid and soon meets Sir Baldwin. She is told to spy on him but she soon begins to fall for him. Sir Gillanders Baldwin isn't who or what he seems to be and he realizes Murdina may just be his mate. The two of them go on the run from people who don't want them to be together. Very enjoyable short story the love match and action keep you interested.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
This story has an added paranormal being in Fey's are involved as well. Rowan is on the run from an angry town and she comes across Aedan. She helps heal him and they form a bond even knowing they can not be together as it is forbidden from both fey and vampires. As they struggle to take back what belongs to Aedan they grow more in love with each other. Rowan soon finds her fey family isn't going to just stand by and let them be together so they have fights all around. This story kept me hooked to see just if they would end up together or would be tore apart forever.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
In Never Been Bitten Elspeth is asked to see if Mr. Macane just a charming rake or a vampire. She finds herself alone with him to see whether he is one or not when she ends up biting him. He stirs up more than lust with her and she is very confused as to what he is and more important just what has her mother been hiding from her. Seems her mother knows exactly who and what Mr. Macane is and wants to run. Elspeth and Cain are falling for each other and want to be together no matter what. This was my favorite of the three stories. I enjoy the time period that it is placed in and the story line was just great.
Pick this up for three great short stories that have action, love and paranormal.
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell
In this story Murdina is trying to work and make money in order to find what family she has left. She takes work as a maid and soon meets Sir Baldwin. She is told to spy on him but she soon begins to fall for him. Sir Gillanders Baldwin isn't who or what he seems to be and he realizes Murdina may just be his mate. The two of them go on the run from people who don't want them to be together. Very enjoyable short story the love match and action keep you interested.
Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby
This story has an added paranormal being in Fey's are involved as well. Rowan is on the run from an angry town and she comes across Aedan. She helps heal him and they form a bond even knowing they can not be together as it is forbidden from both fey and vampires. As they struggle to take back what belongs to Aedan they grow more in love with each other. Rowan soon finds her fey family isn't going to just stand by and let them be together so they have fights all around. This story kept me hooked to see just if they would end up together or would be tore apart forever.
Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley
In Never Been Bitten Elspeth is asked to see if Mr. Macane just a charming rake or a vampire. She finds herself alone with him to see whether he is one or not when she ends up biting him. He stirs up more than lust with her and she is very confused as to what he is and more important just what has her mother been hiding from her. Seems her mother knows exactly who and what Mr. Macane is and wants to run. Elspeth and Cain are falling for each other and want to be together no matter what. This was my favorite of the three stories. I enjoy the time period that it is placed in and the story line was just great.
Pick this up for three great short stories that have action, love and paranormal.
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May 25, 2018Highland Vampire - Dianna Cosby - 3
It felt like sections were missing, the jobs between scenes wasn't smooth and the falling in love wasn't believable. Maybe fleshed out more it could be a really good read, the possibilites are there
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - 5
Interesting story, reminded me that I liked this series, although the names IMO are horrible, my brain would just pause on these names everytime.
It felt like sections were missing, the jobs between scenes wasn't smooth and the falling in love wasn't believable. Maybe fleshed out more it could be a really good read, the possibilites are there
Dark Secret by Hannah Howell - 5
Interesting story, reminded me that I liked this series, although the names IMO are horrible, my brain would just pause on these names everytime.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2013
3.75 actually. I've mentioned in previous editions to this series that I really miss the collaborative efforts with Ms Sands. At some point, Ms Howell has become somewhat...predictable. In addition, she kinda forgot something about the offspring of the Calluns and McNachtons - they purr. So once I figured out this was about one of Janken's kids, I was sortof looking forward to seeing that.
Second story... well, that was interesting. Heroine is half fae, and her mother was the Fae Queen's daughter. She of course doesn't know this. Issue with this one - the h had moments of being TSTL. The first time she wandered off while the H was sleeping, she got attacked by the stones. The second time *knowing that one of his people had tried to kill him* she wanders off and runs into the killer. face palm.
Third story... This one saved the book. Our h, unbeknownst to her, is half vampire. Her father was human, and her mother and she have been in hiding for a long, long time. She doesn't know she's over a century old. H has been looking for her mother, and assumes, upon spotting his prey, that the h is a captive. He inadvertently triggers her latent inner vampire and well, that confrontation was v. entertaining.
Second story... well, that was interesting. Heroine is half fae, and her mother was the Fae Queen's daughter. She of course doesn't know this. Issue with this one - the h had moments of being TSTL. The first time she wandered off while the H was sleeping, she got attacked by the stones. The second time *knowing that one of his people had tried to kill him* she wanders off and runs into the killer. face palm.
Third story... This one saved the book. Our h, unbeknownst to her, is half vampire. Her father was human, and her mother and she have been in hiding for a long, long time. She doesn't know she's over a century old. H has been looking for her mother, and assumes, upon spotting his prey, that the h is a captive. He inadvertently triggers her latent inner vampire and well, that confrontation was v. entertaining.
September 9, 2014
This book is an anthology. The three authors are Hannah Howell/Dark Secret. This was good. Pretty typical of her books of the vampires the MacNaughton's and their search for the lost ones(children that have been abandoned). The second author was Diana Crosby/Highland Vampire. This was a very good read. King of the Highland Coven Aedan MacGregor was left for dead in a stone circle of power and was rescued by Fey Rowan Campell. She is part fey and a healer and saves his life. She thinks she is human and they are after her as they have branded her a witch. Very good plot, kept my attention. The third book was Erica Ridley/Never Been Bitten. This was also good. The Vampire Mr. Macane is a hunter on the lookout for a woman who fled her blood oath. He runs into the womans daughter Elspeth Ramsay. Elspeth doesn't know she is part human and part vampire and is going through the change to be vampire. All information has been kept from her by her mother who was hoping she wouldn't turn. Fun to read. Game of cat and mouse.
September 23, 2012
I won this book on the GoodReads First Reads. And hope to win more books via GoodReads.
This book got better after each story (my favorite was the last one Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley). Overall, I'm not a fan of short stories which all three of these fall into this category. I don't like short stories because they never have the time to develop a story beyond superficial or with big holes. These are three of the better short stories I have read. I might have liked the first story more if I had read the previous books in the MacNaughton Vampire series; however, at times I felt like a fast forward button had been pushed as it felt like small parts had been skipped -- one of my short story pet peeves. I didn't mind the Scottish dialogue in the first story, but other readers might. I was torn between giving this book a 3 or a 4 and decided since there was more I liked than didn't like, I would give it a 4.
This book got better after each story (my favorite was the last one Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley). Overall, I'm not a fan of short stories which all three of these fall into this category. I don't like short stories because they never have the time to develop a story beyond superficial or with big holes. These are three of the better short stories I have read. I might have liked the first story more if I had read the previous books in the MacNaughton Vampire series; however, at times I felt like a fast forward button had been pushed as it felt like small parts had been skipped -- one of my short story pet peeves. I didn't mind the Scottish dialogue in the first story, but other readers might. I was torn between giving this book a 3 or a 4 and decided since there was more I liked than didn't like, I would give it a 4.
February 12, 2013
How does this book relate to MacNachton Vampires? None of the main characters are MacNachton's. For me, this is totally out of sink! The only thing that is similar is that it's about a Vampire.
This is how I would read the MacNachton Vampire series:
1. The Eternal Highlander
2. Highland Vampire
3. My Immortal Highlander
4. Highland Thirst
5. Nature Of The Beast
6. Highland Beast
7. Yours For Eternity
8. Highland Hunger
Each of these books mentions MacNachton's or are star characters in each of these stories. I don't see this with Born To Bite.
Whoever put these series in these wired order in Goodreads, REALLY NEEDS to take a second look and get these re-numbered in proper order and (I'd personally) take out Born To Bite. Because as it is, it doesn't make sense. You really have to read this series to understand the order which MacNachton's comes in. How I have it, it's the proper order minus Born To Bite.
If I'm wrong, please let me know...
Thank you.
This is how I would read the MacNachton Vampire series:
1. The Eternal Highlander
2. Highland Vampire
3. My Immortal Highlander
4. Highland Thirst
5. Nature Of The Beast
6. Highland Beast
7. Yours For Eternity
8. Highland Hunger
Each of these books mentions MacNachton's or are star characters in each of these stories. I don't see this with Born To Bite.
Whoever put these series in these wired order in Goodreads, REALLY NEEDS to take a second look and get these re-numbered in proper order and (I'd personally) take out Born To Bite. Because as it is, it doesn't make sense. You really have to read this series to understand the order which MacNachton's comes in. How I have it, it's the proper order minus Born To Bite.
If I'm wrong, please let me know...
Thank you.
August 30, 2012
The first story was interesting. the phonetic use of the Scottish accent got “verra” annoying after a while. I am not a fan, but it may not bother you. It could be a good series, but I am not all that inspired to find out. It kind of reminded me of Christine Feehan’s work.The second story moved ridiculously fast. Way to much information and not enough development of characters. But at least the Scottish accent was toned down. I don’t see myself reading anything from this author. And last but in no way least, the third story is my favorite. It takes place in England so although our vampire is technically Scottish there are no Brogues to speak of. Quick, witty, and silly this is definitely a series I can see myself getting into. It had a definite Alexia Tarabotti feel to it, and since Gail Carriger has ended that series this may just be able to fill that hole for me.
December 8, 2012
Review for Hannah Howell story. Gillanders is Jankyn and Efrica's son. It was a verra enjoyable Highland vamp story that continues Hannah's Mac Nachton clan and their discovery to find their Mate. I enjoyed Jankyn and Efrica and the remembrance of the Callen cat blood line.
I recommend reading the vamp books in order they are more enjoyable to the continuation of the MacNachton clan and their search for the Lost Ones and their fight to stay away from the "Laird" that is after them. I'm always wishing they were longer stories but she always gives a complete story with steamy love scenes and a mix of humor and paranormal. As long as you don't mind the Nay's and verra Scottish brogue that she uses I highly recommend her Highland series as well as her Vamp series.
I recommend reading the vamp books in order they are more enjoyable to the continuation of the MacNachton clan and their search for the Lost Ones and their fight to stay away from the "Laird" that is after them. I'm always wishing they were longer stories but she always gives a complete story with steamy love scenes and a mix of humor and paranormal. As long as you don't mind the Nay's and verra Scottish brogue that she uses I highly recommend her Highland series as well as her Vamp series.
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