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Dark Desires #3
Death Defying
Part snake, part human, and—some would say all bitch—Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador has one goal in life—to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves. And one last job will get her there. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
286 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
20 people are currently reading
738 people want to read
About the author
Nina Croft
88 books1,095 followersGrowing up in the cold, wet, north of England, Nina Croft spent a lot of time dreaming of faraway sunnier places and ponies. When she discovered both, along with a whole load of other things, could be found between the covers of a book, her life changed forever.
Later, she headed south, picked up the perfect husband along the way, and together they volunteered to work in Africa. There they discovered a love of exotic places and a dislike of 9-5 work. Afterward they spent a number of years travelling (whenever possible) intermingled with working (whenever necessary.) Eventually they stumbled upon a remote area in the mountains of southern Spain and the small almond farm they now call home.
Nina spends her days reading, writing and riding her mare, Gencianna, under the blue Spanish skies—sunshine and ponies. She reckons this is proof that dreams really can come true if you want them enough.
Nina's writing mixes romance with elements of the paranormal and science fiction
If you'd like to find out about new releases then sign up for my Newsletter at: https://app.mailerlite.com/webforms/l...
Later, she headed south, picked up the perfect husband along the way, and together they volunteered to work in Africa. There they discovered a love of exotic places and a dislike of 9-5 work. Afterward they spent a number of years travelling (whenever possible) intermingled with working (whenever necessary.) Eventually they stumbled upon a remote area in the mountains of southern Spain and the small almond farm they now call home.
Nina spends her days reading, writing and riding her mare, Gencianna, under the blue Spanish skies—sunshine and ponies. She reckons this is proof that dreams really can come true if you want them enough.
Nina's writing mixes romance with elements of the paranormal and science fiction
If you'd like to find out about new releases then sign up for my Newsletter at: https://app.mailerlite.com/webforms/l...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 20, 2016
5 - "I just want you to know-whatever happens-this was worth every moment." Stars!
I love this series; I have absolutely nothing bad to say about it. Nina Croft has in essence taken everything I loved about the Star Wars, Star Trek and X-Men film franchises, added some brilliant twists and unforgettable characters, and delivered up a space saga that is literally firing on all cylinders.
Captain Tannis has been a full fixture in the previous books in this series and I have been itching to get to know more about her. This book is hers and her story is quite a triumph of good over adversity. Nina's back-story gave Tannis a little more depth than Rico and Alex’s stories had previously, and I loved that we were given the full no holds barred narrative of her and Rico’s initial meeting.
”I hope you’re not the type to hold a grudge.”
Callum Meridian, is the leader of the known Universe, but he is keeping a few secrets himself, joining the crew of the El Cazador not only gives him a chance to spend some time away from his duties as leader of the Collective, but it also offers the perfect opportunity to explore the chemistry that seems to fizzle between him and Tannis whenever they are in the same room together.
”You might not be willing to accept me in your bed, just yet... But while you’re working for me, you don’t sleep with anyone else either.”
This is a story that is part of a series that has become very close to my heart over the last few months. I haven’t read a bad book by Nina Croft and Death Defying is no exception. Don’t let the space aspect put you off, it is the last place I expect to be getting my romantic kicks, but it works, it is vibrant, the characters varied and colourful, and the storylines are imaginative, unique and well thought
out, and well worth a few hours of your time.
”When this is over, you, me, and that harness are going to get together.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I love this series; I have absolutely nothing bad to say about it. Nina Croft has in essence taken everything I loved about the Star Wars, Star Trek and X-Men film franchises, added some brilliant twists and unforgettable characters, and delivered up a space saga that is literally firing on all cylinders.
Captain Tannis has been a full fixture in the previous books in this series and I have been itching to get to know more about her. This book is hers and her story is quite a triumph of good over adversity. Nina's back-story gave Tannis a little more depth than Rico and Alex’s stories had previously, and I loved that we were given the full no holds barred narrative of her and Rico’s initial meeting.
”I hope you’re not the type to hold a grudge.”
Callum Meridian, is the leader of the known Universe, but he is keeping a few secrets himself, joining the crew of the El Cazador not only gives him a chance to spend some time away from his duties as leader of the Collective, but it also offers the perfect opportunity to explore the chemistry that seems to fizzle between him and Tannis whenever they are in the same room together.
”You might not be willing to accept me in your bed, just yet... But while you’re working for me, you don’t sleep with anyone else either.”
This is a story that is part of a series that has become very close to my heart over the last few months. I haven’t read a bad book by Nina Croft and Death Defying is no exception. Don’t let the space aspect put you off, it is the last place I expect to be getting my romantic kicks, but it works, it is vibrant, the characters varied and colourful, and the storylines are imaginative, unique and well thought
out, and well worth a few hours of your time.
”When this is over, you, me, and that harness are going to get together.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 18, 2014
1.5 stars
Tannis and her team of otherworldies are on a mission to protect the most powerful man in the universe.
The premise sounds great. However, that man, Callum, is the most self-absorbed, obliviously simple character I have read about. He was an instant turn-off. His ego was so huge his wings couldn't carry him. One quick jab to the nose and he begins to see the light.
Tannis is that light. She's a no-nonsense, do-it-herself chick with issues of her own. She's one part human, one part snake. Cross her and you won't know what hit you. Her strike is swift.
The plot was very thin. Things went unexplained and at times didn't make sense. Why did the Church wait to attack? If people wanted Callum dead they could have done so when he was speaking at the beginning.
To be honest Callum didn't seem to have that much power at all. Once he set foot on Tannis' ship,
his spot as the most power man was up for grabs and he had no say so whatsoever.
I didn't believe in this story. The interactions between some of the secondary players and the way the relationship between Callum and Tannis progressed left a lot to be desired.
Not for me.
*I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Tannis and her team of otherworldies are on a mission to protect the most powerful man in the universe.
The premise sounds great. However, that man, Callum, is the most self-absorbed, obliviously simple character I have read about. He was an instant turn-off. His ego was so huge his wings couldn't carry him. One quick jab to the nose and he begins to see the light.
Tannis is that light. She's a no-nonsense, do-it-herself chick with issues of her own. She's one part human, one part snake. Cross her and you won't know what hit you. Her strike is swift.
The plot was very thin. Things went unexplained and at times didn't make sense. Why did the Church wait to attack? If people wanted Callum dead they could have done so when he was speaking at the beginning.
To be honest Callum didn't seem to have that much power at all. Once he set foot on Tannis' ship,
his spot as the most power man was up for grabs and he had no say so whatsoever.I didn't believe in this story. The interactions between some of the secondary players and the way the relationship between Callum and Tannis progressed left a lot to be desired.
Not for me.
*I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
February 26, 2014
During this month, I have been reading a few books that are part of my goal to take myself out of my "I hate romance" shell and give a few things a try. Seeing that this was based mostly on Science Fiction and Space - in the future, vampires, werewolves and other such creatures - I decided it couldn't be that bad (haha). I must say, the romance part of it wasn't actually as gross as I thought it would be :)
This is the third in the series and, in all honesty, the only one I've read. The author did a decent job at making this story stand alone (which I think is something that other authors fail out) - there were no places I was confused, but plenty of places that made me want to go back and read the first two.
There were some issues, but on the whole I found it to be enjoyable. I grew attached to the members of El Cazador's crew and even Callum as well. (The change that came over him during his time on the ship was really well done.) They were all completely different, yet so much like a family and the emotions they felt when one was hurting was really well written. I like the ending, but at the same time it felt like it all ended just a little too easily. I sure hope the series continues because there is much more that I want to know.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the third in the series and, in all honesty, the only one I've read. The author did a decent job at making this story stand alone (which I think is something that other authors fail out) - there were no places I was confused, but plenty of places that made me want to go back and read the first two.
There were some issues, but on the whole I found it to be enjoyable. I grew attached to the members of El Cazador's crew and even Callum as well. (The change that came over him during his time on the ship was really well done.) They were all completely different, yet so much like a family and the emotions they felt when one was hurting was really well written. I like the ending, but at the same time it felt like it all ended just a little too easily. I sure hope the series continues because there is much more that I want to know.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 14, 2018
This opens with how Tannis met Rico. It had been hinted at, but it was good to read about her background. Their first meeting explains so much of their friendship. More about the Church, the Council, Meridian, Trakis Seven, Trakis One. Callum's character was an interesting one. He started out as an asshole, I didn't like him, but gradually eventually I did. Tannis and Callum have a bit of a slow burn romance (if you count about a week). There are new characters in this one and the death of 2. I'm enjoying this series. I like how each is about a couple, but there is a huge underlying story-line the connects each book. I also love how the characters are in each one. Think Firefly. This is a chosen family.
For Ripped Bodice Bingo I am using this for the Extreme Location square (Space in the distant future)
For Ripped Bodice Bingo I am using this for the Extreme Location square (Space in the distant future)
December 1, 2014
Death Defying is the 3rd book in the Blood Hunter series by Nina Croft. I was a little leery about reading this one because I wasn’t sure I would like the hero, Callum. He hasn’t exactly been portrayed as a hero type character in this series, more like a villain. After reading this book I’m more forgiving toward him but I still don’t believe he deserved a happily ever after role. He’s done some horrible things and stood aside while others did horrible things. He’s the leader of the Collective, the most powerful group of people in the universe and they stood by and basically condoned the Church in their efforts to eradicate the GM’s (genetically modified humans). Then there is the Meridian mines, he sent prisoners there to suffer horrendously until they perished, mining Meridian. All so his group could gain even more power.
Putting that aside, I liked Tannis as heroine and I’m glad she didn’t make it easy for Callum, for the most part. I’ve been intrigued about her character from the beginning of the series and I loved learning more about her history and seeing how it affected the character she is now. She definitely didn’t have it easy growing up. That’s part of what made her tough and formidable. At the same time she still has compassion and heart. She is honorable and protective of those she cares for. I really liked her and enjoyed reading along as she got her chance at happily ever after
Death Defying is well done and I’m glad that I read it because it’s a pivotal story in the series. Some major events occur, which rock foundation of the series. It’s much more somber then the previous books and the ending is rather bittersweet. Unfortunately, I can’t say more without going into major spoiler territory. Let’s just say that I’m unhappy with some of what takes place in this story but I’m curious to see how things progress in future books.
Death Defying is recommended to fans of the Blood Hunter series.
*Review copy received from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
Putting that aside, I liked Tannis as heroine and I’m glad she didn’t make it easy for Callum, for the most part. I’ve been intrigued about her character from the beginning of the series and I loved learning more about her history and seeing how it affected the character she is now. She definitely didn’t have it easy growing up. That’s part of what made her tough and formidable. At the same time she still has compassion and heart. She is honorable and protective of those she cares for. I really liked her and enjoyed reading along as she got her chance at happily ever after
Death Defying is well done and I’m glad that I read it because it’s a pivotal story in the series. Some major events occur, which rock foundation of the series. It’s much more somber then the previous books and the ending is rather bittersweet. Unfortunately, I can’t say more without going into major spoiler territory. Let’s just say that I’m unhappy with some of what takes place in this story but I’m curious to see how things progress in future books.
Death Defying is recommended to fans of the Blood Hunter series.
*Review copy received from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
March 17, 2014
This was by far my favorite of the series despite my disappointment regarding the probable romance between the Trog and Janie. I find myself still half expecting something amazing happening to turn that around. So much death, dying and loss in the first half of the book was dismaying and yet I found myself reading on to find out how the author would turn it around to make it HEA as the rest of the series.
July 25, 2017
I love Nina Croft. Unlike most of today's authors', she does not shy away from sensitive topics or afraid to off a few characters if/when the story-line calls for it. Granted, when a character dies, it has the ability to bring readers to tears and cause them pause to continue on with the book. But it is a sure sign of that authors' ability in storytelling when a reader truly mourns the loss of a fictional character as if they were a full flesh and blood human in which the reader had vested interest in him/her. That being said, be sure to pick a box of Kleenex before you read.
Another subject that I admire her handle on is love; fated vs. true has been one of the biggest controversies in the PNR world for a very long time. Croft takes on the True Love aspect more often than not. And watching Callum and Captain Tannis fall first in lust then develop into love was a wonderful thing indeed. Especially when both are leading figureheads in their own right, neither using taking orders only giving them, its a constant battle figuring out who is in charge. Afterall, while Tannis may be captain of the ship, Callum is the ruler of the entire Universe. But when Callum employs the El Cazador's services, well, you know how the old saying goes...."my house, my rules". Callum is desperate, and determined to learn the truth about what he and his fellow Collective are becoming. The only way to do that is to travel to Trakis Seven, the planet where very few will travel to willingly when going there is no more than a death sentence. So, he has no choice but to ask the Renegade crew aboard the El Cazador, since they will take on pretty much any mission, at the right price. Little do they know that in the end, that price will not be worth what they lose in the end.
All Captain Tannis has ever dreamed of was getting enough money to purchase herself the Meridian treatment. Seeing as how her greatest fear her entire life has been death, of course she would long for immortality. After living a life from the tender age of four until seventeen of being experimented on and watching all of her friends and loved ones die since they were not considered human, when she finally escapes her captivity, she can think of nothing more, besides seeking revenge. And the idea of sex appalls her rightfully so, considering some of those experiments were on a very personal level. So when her libido finally awakens and her heart begins to unthaw for none other than Callum Meridian, let's just say shes not a very happy camper when she begins putting puzzle pieces together, one being an emblem from the guard's uniform, the initials C.M. Coincidence??
Full of action, fire power, technology in the future at its best, Croft truly knows her Sci-Fi. That delicacy where fantasy meets possible reality. Science at this point can viably put both eggs and sperm in chryo, who's to say a thousand years from now they won't be able to do the same with people? Or that they aren't already.... And no matter how advanced civilizations ever becomes, you will always have your Zealots believing only one race should be allowed to live. Enters the Church, its not a race issue with them but a humanity one. Those not one hundred human do not deserve to live. While Callum is away looking for answers, the Church is at bay plotting a galactic takeover.
The only thing stopping this from being a full 5 Fang review is my own fault. This book CAN be read as a stand-alone, the prologue provide plenty of background information on Tannis, where the reader will understand her ploy. But....without having read the first two books in the Blood Hunter series' certain aspects will not have the same impact as they were truly meant too. So readers I deplore you to not deprive yourself the way I did, and begin from the beginning. Its' like starting Star Wars in the middle of an episode, while you may be able to enjoy it you wouldn't realize why you should care who Anikan Skywalker is.
All in all, Death Defying is truly a great read.
Another subject that I admire her handle on is love; fated vs. true has been one of the biggest controversies in the PNR world for a very long time. Croft takes on the True Love aspect more often than not. And watching Callum and Captain Tannis fall first in lust then develop into love was a wonderful thing indeed. Especially when both are leading figureheads in their own right, neither using taking orders only giving them, its a constant battle figuring out who is in charge. Afterall, while Tannis may be captain of the ship, Callum is the ruler of the entire Universe. But when Callum employs the El Cazador's services, well, you know how the old saying goes...."my house, my rules". Callum is desperate, and determined to learn the truth about what he and his fellow Collective are becoming. The only way to do that is to travel to Trakis Seven, the planet where very few will travel to willingly when going there is no more than a death sentence. So, he has no choice but to ask the Renegade crew aboard the El Cazador, since they will take on pretty much any mission, at the right price. Little do they know that in the end, that price will not be worth what they lose in the end.
All Captain Tannis has ever dreamed of was getting enough money to purchase herself the Meridian treatment. Seeing as how her greatest fear her entire life has been death, of course she would long for immortality. After living a life from the tender age of four until seventeen of being experimented on and watching all of her friends and loved ones die since they were not considered human, when she finally escapes her captivity, she can think of nothing more, besides seeking revenge. And the idea of sex appalls her rightfully so, considering some of those experiments were on a very personal level. So when her libido finally awakens and her heart begins to unthaw for none other than Callum Meridian, let's just say shes not a very happy camper when she begins putting puzzle pieces together, one being an emblem from the guard's uniform, the initials C.M. Coincidence??
Full of action, fire power, technology in the future at its best, Croft truly knows her Sci-Fi. That delicacy where fantasy meets possible reality. Science at this point can viably put both eggs and sperm in chryo, who's to say a thousand years from now they won't be able to do the same with people? Or that they aren't already.... And no matter how advanced civilizations ever becomes, you will always have your Zealots believing only one race should be allowed to live. Enters the Church, its not a race issue with them but a humanity one. Those not one hundred human do not deserve to live. While Callum is away looking for answers, the Church is at bay plotting a galactic takeover.
The only thing stopping this from being a full 5 Fang review is my own fault. This book CAN be read as a stand-alone, the prologue provide plenty of background information on Tannis, where the reader will understand her ploy. But....without having read the first two books in the Blood Hunter series' certain aspects will not have the same impact as they were truly meant too. So readers I deplore you to not deprive yourself the way I did, and begin from the beginning. Its' like starting Star Wars in the middle of an episode, while you may be able to enjoy it you wouldn't realize why you should care who Anikan Skywalker is.
All in all, Death Defying is truly a great read.
August 29, 2020
(Explícito). 3.5. Ya para la mitad del libro, la historia mejoró. Callum estaba muy perdido y lejos de su humanidad, hubo veces que se me hizo algo inocente o muy retardado. Tuvo que recordad como ser humano otra vez y darle la bienvenida a las emociones que eso conlleva. Me gustó. También me gustó mucho Tannis (desde el inicio me agradó), es practica. Y valiente... no me imaginaba que Venna haría algo así (pero se me hacía raro el porque estaba con ellos y sin decir nada, siempre comportándose como una mosquita muerte) pero si la veo capaz de hacer eso y más. Muy trágico el final para unos tripulantes de El Cazador, me hubiera gustado saber más de ellos, sobre su pasado, su presente y su futuro. ... Devlin, muy intrigante. Al fin averiguamos la verdad sobre Trakis Seven y el origen del Meridian, intrigante, algo fatalista y trágico. Como odio a esa iglesia y a los miembros del consejo del colectivo, a ese Hatcher todavía le queda tiempo antes de que la tripulación vaya a por el de una vez por todas. Mientras tanto me interesa saber lo que encontraron después de haber echo ese viaje a lo desconocido, bueno Callum tenía una idea de lo que se podrían encontrar. ... Tannis, prefirió salvar a su familia y morir en el intento, que ser inmortal y cargar con la culpa de que prefirió salvarse y no ayudar a los otros tripulantes. ... narrado en tercera persona por ambos protagonistas.
February 2, 2023
Didn't bother finishing it. Made it 82 pages before I pushed it to the side.
Callum is a self-loathing, self-loving, boring crybaby. I literally couldn't find anything to like about the guy. Even the FMC, Tannis' explanation of his attractiveness felt flat. It says he's the most powerful man in the universe but he literally does nothing except whine and complains.
But that's not why I gave up on this book. I gave up because, in the very beginning, it describes how Tannis was tortured and experimented on for 14 years and how she has PTSD from it. She can't stand people touching her. This guy, Callum, forces a kiss on her, which rightfully pisses her off. The next day she gets mad at him for going into the city because she thinks he went looking for a hooker. NO! That is not how real PTSD works. You don't go from being sickened and an emotional wreck from people touching you to suddenly wanting a guy that forced himself on you.
Callum is a self-loathing, self-loving, boring crybaby. I literally couldn't find anything to like about the guy. Even the FMC, Tannis' explanation of his attractiveness felt flat. It says he's the most powerful man in the universe but he literally does nothing except whine and complains.
But that's not why I gave up on this book. I gave up because, in the very beginning, it describes how Tannis was tortured and experimented on for 14 years and how she has PTSD from it. She can't stand people touching her. This guy, Callum, forces a kiss on her, which rightfully pisses her off. The next day she gets mad at him for going into the city because she thinks he went looking for a hooker. NO! That is not how real PTSD works. You don't go from being sickened and an emotional wreck from people touching you to suddenly wanting a guy that forced himself on you.
March 9, 2014
Originally published at Reading Reality
Death Defying begins its action/adventure/romance/space opera story just at the point where Deadly Pursuit leaves off.
And the crew of El Cazador is being pursued, with deadly intent, yet again. It looks like all the forces they have previously defeated are out to get them, once in for all.
It doesn’t help that the Collective and the Church are out to get each other, with the crew of El Cazador seemingly caught like fish in a large, space-spanning barrel.
The Collective controls the immortality-granting drug Meridian. After 500 years, the founding members of the Collective have a few problems. They’ve managed to gain control of the galaxy, or at least their corner of it, by their control of the drug. People who defy them are banned from ever receiving “the treatment” that gives them not just immortality, but membership in the elite circle that controls the system. Very few people are willing to lose their chance at the drug, no matter how high the price for it or how slim the chance that they could ever receive it.
But Meridian has a downside--doesn’t everything? Those who take it are not just made immortal, they are irrevocably changed. Everyone knows that members of the Collective are telepathic with the group. But the whole “growing wings” thing is totally unexpected. The members of the Collective are becoming something other than human. In a system where many people consider Genetic Modification to be “less than human”, what will winged people be?
Also, a lot of inhumane acts have been committed in order to keep the supply of Meridian flowing to the select few who qualify. But the supply has run out. The planet where Meridian was found is all tapped out.
The Collective doesn’t want to relinquish their control by admitting that they can’t elect anyone else into the club. Their leader wants to let the whole “wing thing” out into the open. Quite possibly because he’s tired of hiding the fact that he can fly. He wants to test those things out!
When the Council turns down his request for the big reveal, he goes to plan B--escape on El Cazador. The fee he’s paying for their assistance is the last bit of coin that Captain Tannis needs to fund her own Meridian treatment.
Instead, the Council betrays its leader, Callum Meridian, and plans on using double-and-triple crosses to get the Church of Everlasting Life to destroy the planetary source of Meridian in a blaze of glory--so they have a public scapegoat for the end of the supply.
Both the Church and the Collective plan on catching Callum in the cross-fire; the Church because it has decreed the Collective as anathema, and the Collective because Callum wants to delve into secrets that the Collective wants hidden.
Both sides have tackled with the crew of El Cazador before, and wiping them off the face of the galaxy would be a pleasure for either side.
But the crew is much too clever to go down without a fight. Several fights. Especially now that they have recruited their own rebel alliance to help even the odds.
Callum Meridian has been unwilling to admit that immortality has gotten boring. On El Cazador he discovers that fighting for his life, and the lives of the crew who have managed to become friends--is the opposite of boring.
Falling in love is the best experience of all, and one he thought he was no longer capable of. But will loving and losing be worth the price, if he has to live with it forever?
Escape Rating B: Death Defying, and the entire Blood Hunter series so far, has been an absorbing combination of space opera and romance. In Break Out, as much as I adored it, the space opera took a backseat to the romance. In Death Defying, it’s the romance that takes the backseat, and the space opera political maneuvering that comes to the fore.
All three romances have been between a man who has been around entirely too much, and a woman who has little or no experience of sex, love or romance. Not necessarily because they are young, but because their lives have otherwise excluded romantic possibilities.
The heroine of Death Defying, Captain Tannis, almost seems too damaged to have changed so fast. She was experimented upon by a mysterious lab for 14 years, from the ages of 4 until she turned 18, and she can’t stand to be touched. She wants Meridian so she can hunt down the people who tormented her. Callum is the first man she’s ever let touch her, and she manages to forgive him for letting that lab, and other inhumane acts, be perpetrated on his watch as head of the Collective.
I didn’t quite buy into their romance, but the political machinations and Callum’s search for the secrets to Meridian kept me on the edge of my seat. The Church and the Collective are using each other, and both want to wipe out El Cazador. That ship is in everyone’s sights, and it takes a huge trick for them to escape both sets of clutches.
It was difficult to believe that the Church could get even more evil than they were in Deadly Pursuit, but they hit new lows. Not that the Collective is any better.
Riding the spacelanes on El Cazador has been so damn much fun that I’ll be sorry to see it end. I thought that Death Defying wrapped up all the loose ends left over from the first two books in the series, the fabulous Break Out and the terrific Deadly Pursuit. I was incredibly pleased, but I’ll admit also slightly surprised, to see that the author has two more books planned for the series.
I can hardly wait to see how she picks this up from where she left us this time!
Death Defying begins its action/adventure/romance/space opera story just at the point where Deadly Pursuit leaves off.
And the crew of El Cazador is being pursued, with deadly intent, yet again. It looks like all the forces they have previously defeated are out to get them, once in for all.
It doesn’t help that the Collective and the Church are out to get each other, with the crew of El Cazador seemingly caught like fish in a large, space-spanning barrel.
The Collective controls the immortality-granting drug Meridian. After 500 years, the founding members of the Collective have a few problems. They’ve managed to gain control of the galaxy, or at least their corner of it, by their control of the drug. People who defy them are banned from ever receiving “the treatment” that gives them not just immortality, but membership in the elite circle that controls the system. Very few people are willing to lose their chance at the drug, no matter how high the price for it or how slim the chance that they could ever receive it.
But Meridian has a downside--doesn’t everything? Those who take it are not just made immortal, they are irrevocably changed. Everyone knows that members of the Collective are telepathic with the group. But the whole “growing wings” thing is totally unexpected. The members of the Collective are becoming something other than human. In a system where many people consider Genetic Modification to be “less than human”, what will winged people be?
Also, a lot of inhumane acts have been committed in order to keep the supply of Meridian flowing to the select few who qualify. But the supply has run out. The planet where Meridian was found is all tapped out.
The Collective doesn’t want to relinquish their control by admitting that they can’t elect anyone else into the club. Their leader wants to let the whole “wing thing” out into the open. Quite possibly because he’s tired of hiding the fact that he can fly. He wants to test those things out!
When the Council turns down his request for the big reveal, he goes to plan B--escape on El Cazador. The fee he’s paying for their assistance is the last bit of coin that Captain Tannis needs to fund her own Meridian treatment.
Instead, the Council betrays its leader, Callum Meridian, and plans on using double-and-triple crosses to get the Church of Everlasting Life to destroy the planetary source of Meridian in a blaze of glory--so they have a public scapegoat for the end of the supply.
Both the Church and the Collective plan on catching Callum in the cross-fire; the Church because it has decreed the Collective as anathema, and the Collective because Callum wants to delve into secrets that the Collective wants hidden.
Both sides have tackled with the crew of El Cazador before, and wiping them off the face of the galaxy would be a pleasure for either side.
But the crew is much too clever to go down without a fight. Several fights. Especially now that they have recruited their own rebel alliance to help even the odds.
Callum Meridian has been unwilling to admit that immortality has gotten boring. On El Cazador he discovers that fighting for his life, and the lives of the crew who have managed to become friends--is the opposite of boring.
Falling in love is the best experience of all, and one he thought he was no longer capable of. But will loving and losing be worth the price, if he has to live with it forever?
Escape Rating B: Death Defying, and the entire Blood Hunter series so far, has been an absorbing combination of space opera and romance. In Break Out, as much as I adored it, the space opera took a backseat to the romance. In Death Defying, it’s the romance that takes the backseat, and the space opera political maneuvering that comes to the fore.
All three romances have been between a man who has been around entirely too much, and a woman who has little or no experience of sex, love or romance. Not necessarily because they are young, but because their lives have otherwise excluded romantic possibilities.
The heroine of Death Defying, Captain Tannis, almost seems too damaged to have changed so fast. She was experimented upon by a mysterious lab for 14 years, from the ages of 4 until she turned 18, and she can’t stand to be touched. She wants Meridian so she can hunt down the people who tormented her. Callum is the first man she’s ever let touch her, and she manages to forgive him for letting that lab, and other inhumane acts, be perpetrated on his watch as head of the Collective.
I didn’t quite buy into their romance, but the political machinations and Callum’s search for the secrets to Meridian kept me on the edge of my seat. The Church and the Collective are using each other, and both want to wipe out El Cazador. That ship is in everyone’s sights, and it takes a huge trick for them to escape both sets of clutches.
It was difficult to believe that the Church could get even more evil than they were in Deadly Pursuit, but they hit new lows. Not that the Collective is any better.
Riding the spacelanes on El Cazador has been so damn much fun that I’ll be sorry to see it end. I thought that Death Defying wrapped up all the loose ends left over from the first two books in the series, the fabulous Break Out and the terrific Deadly Pursuit. I was incredibly pleased, but I’ll admit also slightly surprised, to see that the author has two more books planned for the series.
I can hardly wait to see how she picks this up from where she left us this time!
September 3, 2020
This was a very intriguing story; I didn't know what to expect from the blurb and I had not read any of the previous books in this series. The story sucked me in from the beginning and kept me hooked; it is faced paced, well written and has an array of very different characters. I would recommend this book to science fiction readers and the paranormal romance reader wont mind it either. The one down side of the book was the ending, it was annoying and I live in hope that there is another book in the series to give better closure.
March 27, 2020
If asked to describe the series, I'd say "honor and loyalty," two very human qualities flow from almost every scene. But note, the crew of El Cazador aren't all human. Part space opera, part paranormal, all action, the book was riveting right from the start to the end and truly hard to have to put down. I would have given this book five stars. The ending was good, but I kept waiting to see what happened to the rest of the crew.
March 15, 2024
A fine conclusion to the trilogy. All three focused on a different main character from the group of space pirates and their evolution in a romantic situation. When a series gives you steam, space opera, a vampire, a werewolf, a black hole and some who's part vegetation, you know you're in for a great treat,
October 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️
This one was just too slow for me. I couldn’t really get into the characters or their romance, and it didn’t feel like it matched the “Dark Desires” label—it just didn’t have much romance at all. Overall, it missed the mark for what I was expecting.
This one was just too slow for me. I couldn’t really get into the characters or their romance, and it didn’t feel like it matched the “Dark Desires” label—it just didn’t have much romance at all. Overall, it missed the mark for what I was expecting.
June 18, 2021
Interesting and different
October 25, 2014
4.25 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-release November 25, 2014
Part snake, part human, and—some would say all bitch—Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador has one goal in life—to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves. And one last job will get her there. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
~~~
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--DEATH DEFYING is the third installment in Nina Croft’s adult, paranormal, sci-fi DARK DESIRE (formerly Blood Hunter) fantasy romance series focusing on the crew of the space cruiser –the El Cazador. This is GM (genetically modified) captain of the El Cazador Tannis, and Leader of the Universe Callum Meridian’s storyline. DEATH DEFYING can be read as a stand alone story but for cohesion, back story and overall enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order.
Some background: 1000 years after Earth’s demise, the ruling Collective, and the self-proclaimed Church of Everlasting Life play a major role in the control of space. The Collective control the rights to the rare radioactive element known as Meridian-that will bestow immortality on those who can afford the price. The Church is in the business of exterminating the genetically modified beings-considering them abominations and a sin against God. These two ruling factions are currently at war with one another and will destroy anyone that gets in their way-the El Cazador and crew are number one on the most wanted list.
Told from third person point of view, DEATH DEFYING finds Callum Meridian in need of help. Having left the Collective council in search of answers to the progressive physical changes to the members of the Collective, he presents Tannis and her crew an offer she cannot refuse. In exchange for their help, Callum will bestow Tannis with the promise of procuring the Meridian element for her personal use. But reaching the outlying planet of Trakis Seven is becoming increasingly difficult when The Church targets the El Cazador, Callum and Trakis Seven for destruction.
The relationship between Callum and Tannis is slow to build as the crew must find a way to outrun The Collective and The Church. Tannis’s backstory and history are revealed-the abuse and experimentation at the hands of the Collective finds our Captain reflecting about the loss of family and the isolation she had to endure. Tannis considers Callum persona non grata when she discovers that Callum may have more of a connection to the abuse then she had realized. But there is a definite sexual attraction between our leading couple, one that does not go unnoticed by the crew members or one another.
The secondary characters include all of the El Cazador crew. There are heartbreaking moments of loss and death for the misfit crew of vampires, werewolves and more. The world building continues with the story behind how Earth’s inhabitants came to find new homes on several different planets as well as the continuing war for control of space.
Once again, the similarities between this series, and the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises cannot be denied- from technology, to species and beyond. There are hopes and dreams, loss and death, mystery and suspense, action, drama and romance. We follow the members of the El Cazador on their journey through time and space; from black holes to poisonous planets they will encounter both the good and the bad, but sometimes there is no difference between the two.
Nina Croft’s BLOOD HUNTER series is seductive, entertaining and compelling. There are moments of pure passion, terrifying destruction and inventive fun all blended into a romantic tale not only between two people but about the vastness of space exploration and what is beyond the stars.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-release November 25, 2014
Part snake, part human, and—some would say all bitch—Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador has one goal in life—to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves. And one last job will get her there. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
~~~
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--DEATH DEFYING is the third installment in Nina Croft’s adult, paranormal, sci-fi DARK DESIRE (formerly Blood Hunter) fantasy romance series focusing on the crew of the space cruiser –the El Cazador. This is GM (genetically modified) captain of the El Cazador Tannis, and Leader of the Universe Callum Meridian’s storyline. DEATH DEFYING can be read as a stand alone story but for cohesion, back story and overall enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order.
Some background: 1000 years after Earth’s demise, the ruling Collective, and the self-proclaimed Church of Everlasting Life play a major role in the control of space. The Collective control the rights to the rare radioactive element known as Meridian-that will bestow immortality on those who can afford the price. The Church is in the business of exterminating the genetically modified beings-considering them abominations and a sin against God. These two ruling factions are currently at war with one another and will destroy anyone that gets in their way-the El Cazador and crew are number one on the most wanted list.
Told from third person point of view, DEATH DEFYING finds Callum Meridian in need of help. Having left the Collective council in search of answers to the progressive physical changes to the members of the Collective, he presents Tannis and her crew an offer she cannot refuse. In exchange for their help, Callum will bestow Tannis with the promise of procuring the Meridian element for her personal use. But reaching the outlying planet of Trakis Seven is becoming increasingly difficult when The Church targets the El Cazador, Callum and Trakis Seven for destruction.
The relationship between Callum and Tannis is slow to build as the crew must find a way to outrun The Collective and The Church. Tannis’s backstory and history are revealed-the abuse and experimentation at the hands of the Collective finds our Captain reflecting about the loss of family and the isolation she had to endure. Tannis considers Callum persona non grata when she discovers that Callum may have more of a connection to the abuse then she had realized. But there is a definite sexual attraction between our leading couple, one that does not go unnoticed by the crew members or one another.
The secondary characters include all of the El Cazador crew. There are heartbreaking moments of loss and death for the misfit crew of vampires, werewolves and more. The world building continues with the story behind how Earth’s inhabitants came to find new homes on several different planets as well as the continuing war for control of space.
Once again, the similarities between this series, and the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises cannot be denied- from technology, to species and beyond. There are hopes and dreams, loss and death, mystery and suspense, action, drama and romance. We follow the members of the El Cazador on their journey through time and space; from black holes to poisonous planets they will encounter both the good and the bad, but sometimes there is no difference between the two.
Nina Croft’s BLOOD HUNTER series is seductive, entertaining and compelling. There are moments of pure passion, terrifying destruction and inventive fun all blended into a romantic tale not only between two people but about the vastness of space exploration and what is beyond the stars.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
thereadingcafe.com
October 25, 2014
4.25 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-release November 25, 2014
Part snake, part human, and—some would say all bitch—Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador has one goal in life—to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves. And one last job will get her there. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
~~~~~~
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--DEATH DEFYING is the third installment in Nina Croft’s adult, paranormal, sci-fi DARK DESIRE (formerly Blood Hunter) fantasy romance series focusing on the crew of the space cruiser –the El Cazador. This is GM (genetically modified) captain of the El Cazador Tannis, and Leader of the Universe Callum Meridian’s storyline. DEATH DEFYING can be read as a stand alone story but for cohesion, back story and overall enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order.
Some background: 1000 years after Earth’s demise, the ruling Collective, and the self-proclaimed Church of Everlasting Life play a major role in the control of space. The Collective control the rights to the rare radioactive element known as Meridian-that will bestow immortality on those who can afford the price. The Church is in the business of exterminating the genetically modified beings-considering them abominations and a sin against God. These two ruling factions are currently at war with one another and will destroy anyone that gets in their way-the El Cazador and crew are number one on the most wanted list.
Told from third person point of view, DEATH DEFYING finds Callum Meridian in need of help. Having left the Collective council in search of answers to the progressive physical changes to the members of the Collective, he presents Tannis and her crew an offer she cannot refuse. In exchange for their help, Callum will bestow Tannis with the promise of procuring the Meridian element for her personal use. But reaching the outlying planet of Trakis Seven is becoming increasingly difficult when The Church targets the El Cazador, Callum and Trakis Seven for destruction.
The relationship between Callum and Tannis is slow to build as the crew must find a way to outrun The Collective and The Church. Tannis’s backstory and history are revealed-the abuse and experimentation at the hands of the Collective finds our Captain reflecting about the loss of family and the isolation she had to endure. Tannis considers Callum persona non grata when she discovers that Callum may have more of a connection to the abuse then she had realized. But there is a definite sexual attraction between our leading couple, one that does not go unnoticed by the crew members or one another.
The secondary characters include all of the El Cazador crew. There are heartbreaking moments of loss and death for the misfit crew of vampires, werewolves and more. The world building continues with the story behind how Earth’s inhabitants came to find new homes on several different planets as well as the continuing war for control of space.
Once again, the similarities between this series, and the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises cannot be denied- from technology, to species and beyond. There are hopes and dreams, loss and death, mystery and suspense, action, drama and romance. We follow the members of the El Cazador on their journey through time and space; from black holes to poisonous planets they will encounter both the good and the bad, but sometimes there is no difference between the two.
Nina Croft’s BLOOD HUNTER series is seductive, entertaining and compelling. There are moments of pure passion, terrifying destruction and inventive fun all blended into a romantic tale not only between two people but about the vastness of space exploration and what is beyond the stars.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-release November 25, 2014
Part snake, part human, and—some would say all bitch—Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador has one goal in life—to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves. And one last job will get her there. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe.
Being leader of the known universe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, it sucks big time. And after five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. But as things are changing, he’s changing—into what, though, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, and he’s employed the crew of El Cazador to help him do it.
Not everyone agrees with his plan, though. His own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is taking advantage of the confusion and attempting a coup, and even the crew of El Cazador seem close to tossing him out the airlock without a space suit. But defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier, or more fun.
~~~~~~
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--DEATH DEFYING is the third installment in Nina Croft’s adult, paranormal, sci-fi DARK DESIRE (formerly Blood Hunter) fantasy romance series focusing on the crew of the space cruiser –the El Cazador. This is GM (genetically modified) captain of the El Cazador Tannis, and Leader of the Universe Callum Meridian’s storyline. DEATH DEFYING can be read as a stand alone story but for cohesion, back story and overall enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order.
Some background: 1000 years after Earth’s demise, the ruling Collective, and the self-proclaimed Church of Everlasting Life play a major role in the control of space. The Collective control the rights to the rare radioactive element known as Meridian-that will bestow immortality on those who can afford the price. The Church is in the business of exterminating the genetically modified beings-considering them abominations and a sin against God. These two ruling factions are currently at war with one another and will destroy anyone that gets in their way-the El Cazador and crew are number one on the most wanted list.
Told from third person point of view, DEATH DEFYING finds Callum Meridian in need of help. Having left the Collective council in search of answers to the progressive physical changes to the members of the Collective, he presents Tannis and her crew an offer she cannot refuse. In exchange for their help, Callum will bestow Tannis with the promise of procuring the Meridian element for her personal use. But reaching the outlying planet of Trakis Seven is becoming increasingly difficult when The Church targets the El Cazador, Callum and Trakis Seven for destruction.
The relationship between Callum and Tannis is slow to build as the crew must find a way to outrun The Collective and The Church. Tannis’s backstory and history are revealed-the abuse and experimentation at the hands of the Collective finds our Captain reflecting about the loss of family and the isolation she had to endure. Tannis considers Callum persona non grata when she discovers that Callum may have more of a connection to the abuse then she had realized. But there is a definite sexual attraction between our leading couple, one that does not go unnoticed by the crew members or one another.
The secondary characters include all of the El Cazador crew. There are heartbreaking moments of loss and death for the misfit crew of vampires, werewolves and more. The world building continues with the story behind how Earth’s inhabitants came to find new homes on several different planets as well as the continuing war for control of space.
Once again, the similarities between this series, and the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises cannot be denied- from technology, to species and beyond. There are hopes and dreams, loss and death, mystery and suspense, action, drama and romance. We follow the members of the El Cazador on their journey through time and space; from black holes to poisonous planets they will encounter both the good and the bad, but sometimes there is no difference between the two.
Nina Croft’s BLOOD HUNTER series is seductive, entertaining and compelling. There are moments of pure passion, terrifying destruction and inventive fun all blended into a romantic tale not only between two people but about the vastness of space exploration and what is beyond the stars.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 8, 2014
This review and more can be seen at http://gothicmoms.blogspot.com/
I love Nina Croft. Unlike most of today's authors', she does not shy away from sensitive topics or afraid to off a few characters if/when the story-line calls for it. Granted, when a character dies, it has the ability to bring readers to tears and cause them pause to continue on with the book. But it is a sure sign of that authors' ability in storytelling when a reader truly mourns the loss of a fictional character as if they were a full flesh and blood human in which the reader had vested interest in him/her. That being said, be sure to pick a box of Kleenex before you read.
Another subject that I admire her handle on is love; fated vs. true has been one of the biggest controversies in the PNR world for a very long time. Croft takes on the True Love aspect more often than not. And watching Callum and Captain Tannis fall first in lust then develop into love was a wonderful thing indeed. Especially when both are leading figureheads in their own right, neither using taking orders only giving them, its a constant battle figuring out who is in charge. Afterall, while Tannis may be captain of the ship, Callum is the ruler of the entire Universe. But when Callum employs the El Cazador's services, well, you know how the old saying goes...."my house, my rules". Callum is desperate, and determined to learn the truth about what he and his fellow Collective are becoming. The only way to do that is to travel to Trakis Seven, the planet where very few will travel to willingly when going there is no more than a death sentence. So, he has no choice but to ask the Renegade crew aboard the El Cazador, since they will take on pretty much any mission, at the right price. Little do they know that in the end, that price will not be worth what they lose in the end.
All Captain Tannis has ever dreamed of was getting enough money to purchase herself the Meridian treatment. Seeing as how her greatest fear her entire life has been death, of course she would long for immortality. After living a life from the tender age of four until seventeen of being experimented on and watching all of her friends and loved ones die since they were not considered human, when she finally escapes her captivity, she can think of nothing more, besides seeking revenge. And the idea of sex appalls her rightfully so, considering some of those experiments were on a very personal level. So when her libido finally awakens and her heart begins to unthaw for none other than Callum Meridian, let's just say shes not a very happy camper when she begins putting puzzle pieces together, one being an emblem from the guard's uniform, the initials C.M. Coincidence??
Full of action, fire power, technology in the future at its best, Croft truly knows her Sci-Fi. That delicacy where fantasy meets possible reality. Science at this point can viably put both eggs and sperm in chryo, who's to say a thousand years from now they won't be able to do the same with people? Or that they aren't already.... And no matter how advanced civilizations ever becomes, you will always have your Zealots believing only one race should be allowed to live. Enters the Church, its not a race issue with them but a humanity one. Those not one hundred human do not deserve to live. While Callum is away looking for answers, the Church is at bay plotting a galactic takeover.
The only thing stopping this from being a full 5 Fang review is my own fault. This book CAN be read as a stand-alone, the prologue provide plenty of background information on Tannis, where the reader will understand her ploy. But....without having read the first two books in the Blood Hunter series' certain aspects will not have the same impact as they were truly meant too. So readers I deplore you to not deprive yourself the way I did, and begin from the beginning. Its' like starting Star Wars in the middle of an episode, while you may be able to enjoy it you wouldn't realize why you should care who Anikan Skywalker is.
All in all, Death Defying is truly a great read.
I love Nina Croft. Unlike most of today's authors', she does not shy away from sensitive topics or afraid to off a few characters if/when the story-line calls for it. Granted, when a character dies, it has the ability to bring readers to tears and cause them pause to continue on with the book. But it is a sure sign of that authors' ability in storytelling when a reader truly mourns the loss of a fictional character as if they were a full flesh and blood human in which the reader had vested interest in him/her. That being said, be sure to pick a box of Kleenex before you read.
Another subject that I admire her handle on is love; fated vs. true has been one of the biggest controversies in the PNR world for a very long time. Croft takes on the True Love aspect more often than not. And watching Callum and Captain Tannis fall first in lust then develop into love was a wonderful thing indeed. Especially when both are leading figureheads in their own right, neither using taking orders only giving them, its a constant battle figuring out who is in charge. Afterall, while Tannis may be captain of the ship, Callum is the ruler of the entire Universe. But when Callum employs the El Cazador's services, well, you know how the old saying goes...."my house, my rules". Callum is desperate, and determined to learn the truth about what he and his fellow Collective are becoming. The only way to do that is to travel to Trakis Seven, the planet where very few will travel to willingly when going there is no more than a death sentence. So, he has no choice but to ask the Renegade crew aboard the El Cazador, since they will take on pretty much any mission, at the right price. Little do they know that in the end, that price will not be worth what they lose in the end.
All Captain Tannis has ever dreamed of was getting enough money to purchase herself the Meridian treatment. Seeing as how her greatest fear her entire life has been death, of course she would long for immortality. After living a life from the tender age of four until seventeen of being experimented on and watching all of her friends and loved ones die since they were not considered human, when she finally escapes her captivity, she can think of nothing more, besides seeking revenge. And the idea of sex appalls her rightfully so, considering some of those experiments were on a very personal level. So when her libido finally awakens and her heart begins to unthaw for none other than Callum Meridian, let's just say shes not a very happy camper when she begins putting puzzle pieces together, one being an emblem from the guard's uniform, the initials C.M. Coincidence??
Full of action, fire power, technology in the future at its best, Croft truly knows her Sci-Fi. That delicacy where fantasy meets possible reality. Science at this point can viably put both eggs and sperm in chryo, who's to say a thousand years from now they won't be able to do the same with people? Or that they aren't already.... And no matter how advanced civilizations ever becomes, you will always have your Zealots believing only one race should be allowed to live. Enters the Church, its not a race issue with them but a humanity one. Those not one hundred human do not deserve to live. While Callum is away looking for answers, the Church is at bay plotting a galactic takeover.
The only thing stopping this from being a full 5 Fang review is my own fault. This book CAN be read as a stand-alone, the prologue provide plenty of background information on Tannis, where the reader will understand her ploy. But....without having read the first two books in the Blood Hunter series' certain aspects will not have the same impact as they were truly meant too. So readers I deplore you to not deprive yourself the way I did, and begin from the beginning. Its' like starting Star Wars in the middle of an episode, while you may be able to enjoy it you wouldn't realize why you should care who Anikan Skywalker is.
All in all, Death Defying is truly a great read.
February 14, 2023
Only a short time ago, the hero and heroine were enemies trying to kill one another. Now, he hero has hired her and her crew to bring him out to hunt down answers concerning the mystery of the virus of immorality. Traumatized by her time spent as a test subject at the hands of the Collective, she's never known kindness and is severely averse to contact with anyone but men in particular. So, she doesn't understand these weird feelings she has for the Leader of the new order, a man with stunning wings and a less than shining personality. Yet every time he's around, she wants to experience just a tiny bit of what her ship mates feel with the one's they love. But nothings ever that easy. She's not the type to show vulnerability and the hero is still an enemy, even more so when she realizes it was him who funded the facility that did those experiments on her.
The hero was once so full of life but it's been some time since he's felt anything other than boredom. For a man who has everything-wealth, women, immortality- life has become rather gray. Then he finds himself on board the heroines ship and suddenly he feels that spark of life again. The adventure of it all, the fight for one’s life and the pleasure of the unknown is life an adrenaline rush to the body. And the heroine is so damn captivating that he can't stop himself from being drawn to her. Beautiful in a truly unique way-yellow snake eyes and all-vulnerable yet deadly when crossed. He's captivated by her fire and even though he tries to put the moves on her, he bumbles horribly at it. After she poison him when she finds out about him and the facility, he actually looks inside of himself and doesn't like what he sees.
He truly was a vain and selfish creature. He thought of only himself and even with the excuse of ignorance as to the true purpose of the labs, he still didn't care enough to want to know. Despite her fury over it all, she doesn't kill him. She does however make the effort to forget about whatever desire she may have had for him. Fat chance at that, especially when he bargains with her that he'll get her the rare treatment to make her immortal. As they travel across the universe to the one place remaining to get this gift, they realize that their enemies wish to destroy all trace. And when it comes down to the choice between living forever and losing everyone she loves; the hero has the opportunity to see true selflessness in action.
As far as finales go, I thought this book was stellar. When I read this heroine in the first book, I didn't like her. I thought she was bitchy and without any soul that I could see. But as time went on and from that first book to the second to this story where she's front and center, I saw her character evolve into something I can truly admire. She kept that fire that's needed to be a bad ass female lead in the world of space pirates but we as the reader also saw vulnerability within her. Getting to experience the memories she had of the lab and the furious deep-seated anger still raging inside her was essential to understanding why she is how she is. And then there was the hero. He wasn't whiny or obnoxious by any means but there was certainly that air of 'I'm above you all'. When we first meet him, he is lacking any human kindness or ability to bond well with other people. He's used to getting what he wants and now he's fending for himself and seeing how dull his life has been until this point. He evolved into a man capable of surviving in the heroine's world but he didn't suddenly become all bad ass mercenary which is something I appreciated. The author kept him basically the same but made him grow as a human being-even though he's no longer human. As far as the Church organization goes, I can say that I've never loathed an enemy more than I hated these guys. The arrogance and blind stupidity these men had made my skin crawl and every single score the hero and heroine made against them made me smile with glee. Over all, I really grew to love this series and I'm sad it's over. I thought it was inventive and the characters and dialogue were witty and engaging.
The hero was once so full of life but it's been some time since he's felt anything other than boredom. For a man who has everything-wealth, women, immortality- life has become rather gray. Then he finds himself on board the heroines ship and suddenly he feels that spark of life again. The adventure of it all, the fight for one’s life and the pleasure of the unknown is life an adrenaline rush to the body. And the heroine is so damn captivating that he can't stop himself from being drawn to her. Beautiful in a truly unique way-yellow snake eyes and all-vulnerable yet deadly when crossed. He's captivated by her fire and even though he tries to put the moves on her, he bumbles horribly at it. After she poison him when she finds out about him and the facility, he actually looks inside of himself and doesn't like what he sees.
He truly was a vain and selfish creature. He thought of only himself and even with the excuse of ignorance as to the true purpose of the labs, he still didn't care enough to want to know. Despite her fury over it all, she doesn't kill him. She does however make the effort to forget about whatever desire she may have had for him. Fat chance at that, especially when he bargains with her that he'll get her the rare treatment to make her immortal. As they travel across the universe to the one place remaining to get this gift, they realize that their enemies wish to destroy all trace. And when it comes down to the choice between living forever and losing everyone she loves; the hero has the opportunity to see true selflessness in action.
As far as finales go, I thought this book was stellar. When I read this heroine in the first book, I didn't like her. I thought she was bitchy and without any soul that I could see. But as time went on and from that first book to the second to this story where she's front and center, I saw her character evolve into something I can truly admire. She kept that fire that's needed to be a bad ass female lead in the world of space pirates but we as the reader also saw vulnerability within her. Getting to experience the memories she had of the lab and the furious deep-seated anger still raging inside her was essential to understanding why she is how she is. And then there was the hero. He wasn't whiny or obnoxious by any means but there was certainly that air of 'I'm above you all'. When we first meet him, he is lacking any human kindness or ability to bond well with other people. He's used to getting what he wants and now he's fending for himself and seeing how dull his life has been until this point. He evolved into a man capable of surviving in the heroine's world but he didn't suddenly become all bad ass mercenary which is something I appreciated. The author kept him basically the same but made him grow as a human being-even though he's no longer human. As far as the Church organization goes, I can say that I've never loathed an enemy more than I hated these guys. The arrogance and blind stupidity these men had made my skin crawl and every single score the hero and heroine made against them made me smile with glee. Over all, I really grew to love this series and I'm sad it's over. I thought it was inventive and the characters and dialogue were witty and engaging.
February 26, 2014
My Review:
There's not much romance like this out right now. This is a sci fi series set in a futuristic world of space ships and other planets. This is #3 in the series and I think you'd be fine reading this one as a stand-alone, but I recommend all three books. The series is really good and so creative. I've loved it.
This book is about Tannis, the Captain of the El Cazador, the space ship owned by the vampire, Rico. Tannis and Rico have been partners for a long time, but I loved this book because it showed how their partnership evolved 15 years ago when they escaped from a medical experimentation facility. At the time of their escape she had lived in that facility for 16 years...from the time she was 4 years old. As a result, that time shaped who she became....a tough, no-nonsense chick. It also made her determined to get the Meridian treatment...an ultra-expensive treatment that makes the recipient virtually immortal. The Meridian treatments are issued by the Collective which is run by Callum.
Callum is an interesting character. He fell into his roll as leader of the Collective by happenstance. It's a job with extreme power and responsibilities ruling over a huge universe. He's done the job for several centuries...several centuries of delegating responsibilities and decisions. As he works with Tannis's crew he suddenly begins to realize that all those decisions that he basically made on paper had real-life ramifications to real people that he never considered. He's responsible for lots of really horrific acts...and that makes him an interesting hero. He's not innocent, by any means, but he's not a bad guy either.
Callum hires Tannis's ship and crew to take him to the planet where Meridian is mined. Something is changing with the physiology of those people who have taken the dose and he wants answers...something that his government is not happy about. He hopes that Tannis's crew and talents can keep his government away while they find answers. Complicating things even further is the Church, another entity that is enemies with the Collective. The Church has decided to destroy the planet where the Meridian is mined. It's a race across the galaxy to see who can get there first.
I enjoyed the romance between Tannis and Callum a lot. The sparks between the two of them are amazing and the sex scenes are incredibly hot, but it's more than just that. Callum is used to getting his way. I like how that changes throughout the book and as things become more and more obvious through the book to him, he slowly begins to give Tannis the space that she needs. But then in the end, the scenes between them are so tender and so loving. They broke my heart.
And let's talk about the end here a bit (no worries, it will be spoiler-free). Over an over in the last 30% of the book I gasped and cried as my heart twisted and broke. There are so many edge-of-your-seat moments at the end of this book. I didn't plan to finish the book the night that I did so, but I hit a certain point in the story and there was absolutely no way I was putting the book down again. There are several really shocking things that happen and twists that I did not see coming. It was almost written like this was the final book in the series. I hope it's not just because I love this crew and this world. I'm hoping it's just evolving into a slightly new world, but we shall see. Regardless, though, it was an excellent book and I highly recommend it and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
There's not much romance like this out right now. This is a sci fi series set in a futuristic world of space ships and other planets. This is #3 in the series and I think you'd be fine reading this one as a stand-alone, but I recommend all three books. The series is really good and so creative. I've loved it.
This book is about Tannis, the Captain of the El Cazador, the space ship owned by the vampire, Rico. Tannis and Rico have been partners for a long time, but I loved this book because it showed how their partnership evolved 15 years ago when they escaped from a medical experimentation facility. At the time of their escape she had lived in that facility for 16 years...from the time she was 4 years old. As a result, that time shaped who she became....a tough, no-nonsense chick. It also made her determined to get the Meridian treatment...an ultra-expensive treatment that makes the recipient virtually immortal. The Meridian treatments are issued by the Collective which is run by Callum.
Callum is an interesting character. He fell into his roll as leader of the Collective by happenstance. It's a job with extreme power and responsibilities ruling over a huge universe. He's done the job for several centuries...several centuries of delegating responsibilities and decisions. As he works with Tannis's crew he suddenly begins to realize that all those decisions that he basically made on paper had real-life ramifications to real people that he never considered. He's responsible for lots of really horrific acts...and that makes him an interesting hero. He's not innocent, by any means, but he's not a bad guy either.
Callum hires Tannis's ship and crew to take him to the planet where Meridian is mined. Something is changing with the physiology of those people who have taken the dose and he wants answers...something that his government is not happy about. He hopes that Tannis's crew and talents can keep his government away while they find answers. Complicating things even further is the Church, another entity that is enemies with the Collective. The Church has decided to destroy the planet where the Meridian is mined. It's a race across the galaxy to see who can get there first.
I enjoyed the romance between Tannis and Callum a lot. The sparks between the two of them are amazing and the sex scenes are incredibly hot, but it's more than just that. Callum is used to getting his way. I like how that changes throughout the book and as things become more and more obvious through the book to him, he slowly begins to give Tannis the space that she needs. But then in the end, the scenes between them are so tender and so loving. They broke my heart.
And let's talk about the end here a bit (no worries, it will be spoiler-free). Over an over in the last 30% of the book I gasped and cried as my heart twisted and broke. There are so many edge-of-your-seat moments at the end of this book. I didn't plan to finish the book the night that I did so, but I hit a certain point in the story and there was absolutely no way I was putting the book down again. There are several really shocking things that happen and twists that I did not see coming. It was almost written like this was the final book in the series. I hope it's not just because I love this crew and this world. I'm hoping it's just evolving into a slightly new world, but we shall see. Regardless, though, it was an excellent book and I highly recommend it and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 25, 2014
A new author to me and I'm kicking myself for not spotting her work earlier! This is the third book in Ms Crofts Blood Hunter series and an amazing ride! A sci fi romance that has serious world building and such interesting characters.
A future for mankind that whilst not easy is a challenging one that starts with a journey into the stars.
Earth has been abandoned by mankind as it's no longer habitable. Of the thousands that survived the journey there are some who are changed irrevocably. Callum is one of those who although once fully human is now something more, something alien. He's one of the few who have been in contact with Meridian and now he's immortal. As leader of the Collective he's come to a decision. It's time to tell the truth about what the Meridian treatment really means and unfortunately not all his fellow immortals agree.
Tannis is a genetically modified human and captain on the El Cazador starship. She escaped certain death and has spent most of her adult life chasing immortality and now she has the opportunity to actually take the Merdian treatment. Unfortunately there is a huge fly in the ointment and it's name is Callum! He's leader of the Collective and considered the most powerful man in the universe but he's also annoying, obstinate, pigheaded and would you believe absolutely gorgeous!
Tannis has agreed that she and her crew will transport him but she hadn't bargained on his own people chasing them. As if that wasn't enough now the religious fanatics are involved and suddenly the crew of El Cazador are accused of kidnapping the arrogant man! Tannis is used to danger but being in Callum's presence is a danger she hadn't expected. Is Callum just using her? Or can Tannis trust his motives? The secrets surrounding the Meridian are about to get someone killed and all Tannis can do is hope that she's not heading into a trap.
I wasn't sure exactly what I expected from this story but I really enjoyed it. It's a little different from others I've read as although Callum is the hero I personally found him to be frankly arrogant and irritating! I guess I thought as his peoples leader he would be really alpha and macho but initially he seemed far from that . Callum seemed a bit whiny and weak as he had got so used to having others look after him but thankfully his demeanour did improve and he manned up !
As for Tannis well she's an amazing character with an interesting background. She's spent so long single-mindedly chasing her dream that she's not allowed herself to be a woman. It was such fun to see her open up and allow herself to take a chance.
As stated this is my first book by this author and I am so impressed! I really have to get the other books in this series and I would definitely recommend reading them in order. This was a fast paced story that never let up. Such an amazing array of characters from vampires to werewolves and even a demon! I just didn't quite know what else the author would add to the mix. I'm not sure if there are any more books to be written in this series but I do hope so as the world building is fantastic and I'd love to read more.
Strong chemistry and a sizzling hot read with dialogue to make this reader smile. Great writing and so good to read a book that's properly edited. I will most defiantly be reading more by this author and happily recommend this book.
A four and a half from me
A future for mankind that whilst not easy is a challenging one that starts with a journey into the stars.
Earth has been abandoned by mankind as it's no longer habitable. Of the thousands that survived the journey there are some who are changed irrevocably. Callum is one of those who although once fully human is now something more, something alien. He's one of the few who have been in contact with Meridian and now he's immortal. As leader of the Collective he's come to a decision. It's time to tell the truth about what the Meridian treatment really means and unfortunately not all his fellow immortals agree.
Tannis is a genetically modified human and captain on the El Cazador starship. She escaped certain death and has spent most of her adult life chasing immortality and now she has the opportunity to actually take the Merdian treatment. Unfortunately there is a huge fly in the ointment and it's name is Callum! He's leader of the Collective and considered the most powerful man in the universe but he's also annoying, obstinate, pigheaded and would you believe absolutely gorgeous!
Tannis has agreed that she and her crew will transport him but she hadn't bargained on his own people chasing them. As if that wasn't enough now the religious fanatics are involved and suddenly the crew of El Cazador are accused of kidnapping the arrogant man! Tannis is used to danger but being in Callum's presence is a danger she hadn't expected. Is Callum just using her? Or can Tannis trust his motives? The secrets surrounding the Meridian are about to get someone killed and all Tannis can do is hope that she's not heading into a trap.
I wasn't sure exactly what I expected from this story but I really enjoyed it. It's a little different from others I've read as although Callum is the hero I personally found him to be frankly arrogant and irritating! I guess I thought as his peoples leader he would be really alpha and macho but initially he seemed far from that . Callum seemed a bit whiny and weak as he had got so used to having others look after him but thankfully his demeanour did improve and he manned up !
As for Tannis well she's an amazing character with an interesting background. She's spent so long single-mindedly chasing her dream that she's not allowed herself to be a woman. It was such fun to see her open up and allow herself to take a chance.
As stated this is my first book by this author and I am so impressed! I really have to get the other books in this series and I would definitely recommend reading them in order. This was a fast paced story that never let up. Such an amazing array of characters from vampires to werewolves and even a demon! I just didn't quite know what else the author would add to the mix. I'm not sure if there are any more books to be written in this series but I do hope so as the world building is fantastic and I'd love to read more.
Strong chemistry and a sizzling hot read with dialogue to make this reader smile. Great writing and so good to read a book that's properly edited. I will most defiantly be reading more by this author and happily recommend this book.
A four and a half from me
August 11, 2016
This was a fast paced story with lots of action and some romance. I have not read the first two books in this series, but had no problems keeping up with what was happening or relating to the characters. Nina Croft has created an interesting new world and colorful characters which make for a fun read.
So we have the crew of the El Cazador – if I had to choose a ship and crew to be part of, this would definitely be it! They are all a bit quirky and have joined together for different reasons and under different circumstances, but they are extremely loyal to one another, and several have even found love. The ship is piloted by a vampire, Rico, who also owns the ship, and is led by Captain Tannis, who is part snake, part human.
Then we have the Collective – a group of immortals who currently run things. Callum Meridian is the leader, but he’s been a bit restless lately, growing kind of bored with the whole immortality thing.
Callum has also experienced a new little trip up the evolutionary ladder – he’s sprouted wings. While the rest of the Council wants to keep this and many other things quiet from the masses, Callum wants to find out what else may be in store and do the big reveal.
Captain Tannis and Callum Meridian have met before – of course the circumstances were not quite peaceful, but that was where the fatal attraction between the two began. Since Callum is going to need a ride out of town when he stages the big reveal against the wishes of the Council, he hires Tannis and her crew to transport him. Of course he also has his eye on Tannis since she has seemed to jump start his dormant libido, but Tannis has some issues from her past that make her less then amenable to his advances.
It was fun to watch the interactions between Callum and Tannis and see both of them become more human as the story progressed. When things finally do heat up between the two, there are all sorts of outside forces at play that conspire to keep them apart.
Add in to the mix The Church, who hate all things that aren’t human and want to take over the universe, throw in some Rebel forces who hate the Church just a little more than they hate the Collective, then add a planet which holds the key to immortality, and don’t forget about that attraction between Callum and Tannis, and you have a whole lot of players to make for one action packed adventure.
Can’t wait to go back and read the first two books in the series and learn more about some of the other characters!
I received an eARC from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
So we have the crew of the El Cazador – if I had to choose a ship and crew to be part of, this would definitely be it! They are all a bit quirky and have joined together for different reasons and under different circumstances, but they are extremely loyal to one another, and several have even found love. The ship is piloted by a vampire, Rico, who also owns the ship, and is led by Captain Tannis, who is part snake, part human.
Then we have the Collective – a group of immortals who currently run things. Callum Meridian is the leader, but he’s been a bit restless lately, growing kind of bored with the whole immortality thing.
“He’d long ago reached the conclusion, that being the most powerful man in the whole universe was not all it was cracked up to be. In fact, the job was a pile of shit.”
Callum has also experienced a new little trip up the evolutionary ladder – he’s sprouted wings. While the rest of the Council wants to keep this and many other things quiet from the masses, Callum wants to find out what else may be in store and do the big reveal.
Captain Tannis and Callum Meridian have met before – of course the circumstances were not quite peaceful, but that was where the fatal attraction between the two began. Since Callum is going to need a ride out of town when he stages the big reveal against the wishes of the Council, he hires Tannis and her crew to transport him. Of course he also has his eye on Tannis since she has seemed to jump start his dormant libido, but Tannis has some issues from her past that make her less then amenable to his advances.
“…he kissed me, and I was right back in that cell. It was as if the last fifteen years just vanished. And I was so full of fear and rage.”
It was fun to watch the interactions between Callum and Tannis and see both of them become more human as the story progressed. When things finally do heat up between the two, there are all sorts of outside forces at play that conspire to keep them apart.
Add in to the mix The Church, who hate all things that aren’t human and want to take over the universe, throw in some Rebel forces who hate the Church just a little more than they hate the Collective, then add a planet which holds the key to immortality, and don’t forget about that attraction between Callum and Tannis, and you have a whole lot of players to make for one action packed adventure.
Can’t wait to go back and read the first two books in the series and learn more about some of the other characters!
I received an eARC from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2014
Title: Death Defying
Series: Blood Hunter Book #3
Author: Nina Croft
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Blurb: Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador is part snake, part human, and—according to some—all bitch. She is one job away from her lifelong goal—to achieve the immortality she craves. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe. After five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. Until he realizes he’s physically changing—into what, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, but his own people will stop at nothing to prevent it from coming out. With a coup brewing and the crew of El Cazador close to tossing him off the ship, Callum turns to Tannis. Sparks fly as they work together to make it out alive. But can Callum really trust the one woman hell bent on using him? Defying death has never been more dangerous, more sexy, or more fun.
Thoughts: I have to say if you're a fan of sci-fi/fantasy novels, particularly those with a outer space slant to them, you can't go wrong with this book. Personally, I found it quite an original, interesting read. I have not read the first two books in this series, but I still found it easy to keep up with and it did not impact my enjoyment at all when it came to this book! This book caught me from the first page, and held my interest until the end - and let me say that this is one series I will definitely be going back and reading the prior books I missed.
I simply loved the characters in this book - not just Tannis and Callum, but all the other characters that help make up the 'cast' for this series and who help make this book so amazing! (I developed a particular affinity for Rico, myself)
When it comes to the main characters, I enjoyed that Tannis was part-snake (an unusual choice for the genre), and wish that had been focused on a bit more. Not to mention the whole 'meridian' angle of the story - which is the treatment Tannis has been saving up for for forever - the treatment that will make her immortal. A few of her illusions fall apart in this book, and it is interesting to see how she deals with it and how it changes how she views things. Callum, on the other hand, could be a bit selfish and arrogant at times - but it was interesting to see him grow and change as a character. The author did a great job with character development - so much so that I can't wait to read more by the author.
Again, the story is just so original I just can't expand enough on what a joy it was to read! I'm curious as to how much I missed regarding past history between the characters and such, but I plan on finding out! I also look forward to checking out other books by the author...:)
Rate: B+/A-
**The other books in this series are Break Out (Rico and Skylar's story) and Deadly Pursuit (Jon and Alexia's story)**
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Blood Hunter Book #3
Author: Nina Croft
Genre: Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Blurb: Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador is part snake, part human, and—according to some—all bitch. She is one job away from her lifelong goal—to achieve the immortality she craves. The assignment: protecting the most powerful man in the Universe. After five hundred years, Callum Meridian, founding member of the Collective, is bored out of his mind. Until he realizes he’s physically changing—into what, he isn’t sure. Callum is determined to discover the truth, but his own people will stop at nothing to prevent it from coming out. With a coup brewing and the crew of El Cazador close to tossing him off the ship, Callum turns to Tannis. Sparks fly as they work together to make it out alive. But can Callum really trust the one woman hell bent on using him? Defying death has never been more dangerous, more sexy, or more fun.
Thoughts: I have to say if you're a fan of sci-fi/fantasy novels, particularly those with a outer space slant to them, you can't go wrong with this book. Personally, I found it quite an original, interesting read. I have not read the first two books in this series, but I still found it easy to keep up with and it did not impact my enjoyment at all when it came to this book! This book caught me from the first page, and held my interest until the end - and let me say that this is one series I will definitely be going back and reading the prior books I missed.
I simply loved the characters in this book - not just Tannis and Callum, but all the other characters that help make up the 'cast' for this series and who help make this book so amazing! (I developed a particular affinity for Rico, myself)
When it comes to the main characters, I enjoyed that Tannis was part-snake (an unusual choice for the genre), and wish that had been focused on a bit more. Not to mention the whole 'meridian' angle of the story - which is the treatment Tannis has been saving up for for forever - the treatment that will make her immortal. A few of her illusions fall apart in this book, and it is interesting to see how she deals with it and how it changes how she views things. Callum, on the other hand, could be a bit selfish and arrogant at times - but it was interesting to see him grow and change as a character. The author did a great job with character development - so much so that I can't wait to read more by the author.
Again, the story is just so original I just can't expand enough on what a joy it was to read! I'm curious as to how much I missed regarding past history between the characters and such, but I plan on finding out! I also look forward to checking out other books by the author...:)
Rate: B+/A-
**The other books in this series are Break Out (Rico and Skylar's story) and Deadly Pursuit (Jon and Alexia's story)**
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
July 27, 2016
Captain Tannis has one goal in her life. She wants to get enough credits to become immortal using the Meridian treatment. She is part snake and part human and while she could become a vampire and become immortal that way it isn't the way she wants to go. She gets a job that will give her enough money to get the treatment. All she has to do is protect Callum Meridian the most powerful man in the universe. Callum is one of the founding members of the Collective and he knows things are changing,. He is changing as well but not sure how. He is bored and now he is out to figure out why things are changing. No one is going to stop him from his goal, not the Collective, the Church or even the crew he has hired. Tannis has never wanted a mans touch but she doesn't mind Callum's. Callum hasn't wanted anyone in a long time but Tannis heats him up. They both have different goals but they have to work together to put a stop to the Church and to let the truth out about what is going on.
Tannis has a horrible past and she has never forgot it. She wants to become immortal by the Meridian treatment and will let nothing stop her. She also will stop at nothing to pay back those who did her bad. She has a great crew she cares deeply for and will protect them any way she can. She isn't afraid of danger and while she doesn't like it Callum brings something alive in her she doesn't like. She begins to feel for him. Callum wants everyone to know what is going on with the Collective and while they want to keep it hid he will be out in the open about it. He is very sexy and even when Tannis says she wants nothing to do with him he keeps trying. They both bring out the best and the worse at times in each other.
I haven't read any of the other books in this series but I wan't lost in reading this one. I will be reading them to get some of the other characters story. I really enjoy the different feel of this book. It's in the future, in space and you have all kinds of paranormal creatures. Tannis is so awesome being part snake and part human. She has venom and will use it if she has to. She may have been treated awful growing up but it only made her so much stronger. She doesn't want to like Callum other than what he can get her but she can't help it. It isn't an insta love and that is great. There is a great plot and I love finding out what the secrets were and I actual felt sad at one point. I won't spoil it. There is plenty of action as it seems everyone is out to stop this crew for one reason or another. You see how great Tannis is as she has a hard decision to make and she does what she has to do. I love the ending. If your looking for a new paranormal book to read you may want to try this series.
Tannis has a horrible past and she has never forgot it. She wants to become immortal by the Meridian treatment and will let nothing stop her. She also will stop at nothing to pay back those who did her bad. She has a great crew she cares deeply for and will protect them any way she can. She isn't afraid of danger and while she doesn't like it Callum brings something alive in her she doesn't like. She begins to feel for him. Callum wants everyone to know what is going on with the Collective and while they want to keep it hid he will be out in the open about it. He is very sexy and even when Tannis says she wants nothing to do with him he keeps trying. They both bring out the best and the worse at times in each other.
I haven't read any of the other books in this series but I wan't lost in reading this one. I will be reading them to get some of the other characters story. I really enjoy the different feel of this book. It's in the future, in space and you have all kinds of paranormal creatures. Tannis is so awesome being part snake and part human. She has venom and will use it if she has to. She may have been treated awful growing up but it only made her so much stronger. She doesn't want to like Callum other than what he can get her but she can't help it. It isn't an insta love and that is great. There is a great plot and I love finding out what the secrets were and I actual felt sad at one point. I won't spoil it. There is plenty of action as it seems everyone is out to stop this crew for one reason or another. You see how great Tannis is as she has a hard decision to make and she does what she has to do. I love the ending. If your looking for a new paranormal book to read you may want to try this series.
January 11, 2015
Death Defying is a wild and intense ride full of mystery, action, tragedy and love.
The crew of the El Cazador has taken on a new mission, one that’s going to pay off big financially and help Captain Tannis finally get the Meridian treatment she’s been dreaming of for ages. All she and her crew have to do is escort and protect the most famous man in the Universe, Callum Meridian. What seems like an easy mission turns into something far more dangerous. Callum Meridian’s presence on the ship is making Tannis and her crew angry and uncomfortable. On top of the awkwardness, the Collective has put out a wanted notice to get Callum back and the Church is demanding the crew return Alex.
Tannis has to decide whether protecting Callum and helping him discover the truth behind Meridian is even worth the danger and emotional confusion. With all their lives on the line and her heart at stake will Tannis be able to complete the mission and will she and her crew get their happy endings?
The book is jammed pack with lots of action between the war with the Collective, the Church and the Rebels and the issues and questions regarding the truth behind Meridian, there isn’t a moment of peace. However, with all the action the focus remains on Tannis, her relationship with her crew and her intense attraction to the powerful Callum Meridian. The story starts off with a flash to the past retelling the backstory of how Rico and Tannis first met. Through that backstory we get to know how Tannis and Rico became such great friends, what led her to become the Captain of Rico’s ship, and why she’s so motivated about getting the Meridian treatment.
I loved getting to know more about Tannis. The insight into her past explained a great deal concerning her uneasiness toward Callum and he confusion over her growing feelings toward the Collective leader. Callum is an interesting character. I enjoyed reading his growth and development from bored self-absorbed leader of the Collective to caring, heroic friend and lover. Callum and Tannis were hot together, perfect on every level and I loved every minute of their interaction.
Croft does a great job with character development and the storyline is exciting. I enjoyed the introduction of the Rebel leader and getting a little insight into that side of the war. There were several devastating moments that had me in tears and for a second there I thought the worse had happened. I do wish we could have gotten to know some of the characters who didn’t make it a bit more before they were taken away from us. Perhaps some time in the future Croft will write a short novella retelling their stories.
Copy provided for review.
Reviewed by Joy for Crystal's Many Reviewers
The crew of the El Cazador has taken on a new mission, one that’s going to pay off big financially and help Captain Tannis finally get the Meridian treatment she’s been dreaming of for ages. All she and her crew have to do is escort and protect the most famous man in the Universe, Callum Meridian. What seems like an easy mission turns into something far more dangerous. Callum Meridian’s presence on the ship is making Tannis and her crew angry and uncomfortable. On top of the awkwardness, the Collective has put out a wanted notice to get Callum back and the Church is demanding the crew return Alex.
Tannis has to decide whether protecting Callum and helping him discover the truth behind Meridian is even worth the danger and emotional confusion. With all their lives on the line and her heart at stake will Tannis be able to complete the mission and will she and her crew get their happy endings?
The book is jammed pack with lots of action between the war with the Collective, the Church and the Rebels and the issues and questions regarding the truth behind Meridian, there isn’t a moment of peace. However, with all the action the focus remains on Tannis, her relationship with her crew and her intense attraction to the powerful Callum Meridian. The story starts off with a flash to the past retelling the backstory of how Rico and Tannis first met. Through that backstory we get to know how Tannis and Rico became such great friends, what led her to become the Captain of Rico’s ship, and why she’s so motivated about getting the Meridian treatment.
I loved getting to know more about Tannis. The insight into her past explained a great deal concerning her uneasiness toward Callum and he confusion over her growing feelings toward the Collective leader. Callum is an interesting character. I enjoyed reading his growth and development from bored self-absorbed leader of the Collective to caring, heroic friend and lover. Callum and Tannis were hot together, perfect on every level and I loved every minute of their interaction.
Croft does a great job with character development and the storyline is exciting. I enjoyed the introduction of the Rebel leader and getting a little insight into that side of the war. There were several devastating moments that had me in tears and for a second there I thought the worse had happened. I do wish we could have gotten to know some of the characters who didn’t make it a bit more before they were taken away from us. Perhaps some time in the future Croft will write a short novella retelling their stories.
Copy provided for review.
Reviewed by Joy for Crystal's Many Reviewers
February 10, 2014
Ahh, I was just starting to go through Nina Croft withdrawal and now that has been purged. Unfortunately, I think the Blood Hunter series has now come to an end. I could be wrong, but from the ending it seems like it would be done.
In a way this book was darker than other entries in the series. Don't get me wrong, none of the books have been light and fluffy, but this one just seemed more...deadly. And be prepared because lots of people die. People I wasn't expecting to die.
Tannis - ahhh, finally get to get inside the enigmatic captain's head. That was fantastic. I loved her mixture of vulnerability and witch with a b. She has her reasons for rebuffing the "Leader of the Universe" (Callum, as he's referred to many times, and not in complimentary ways), but as time grows short for a multitude of reasons, these two finally get their chance to find their way to one another. I loved her single-minded focus on getting the Meridian treatment, and then her decision on that factor.
Callum - heh. Wow, the man has serious issues. I mean, c'mon. He's got wings sprouting from his back thanks to the Meridian, and he wants to be honest with the universe about what the Meridian treatments can end up doing (after about 500 years, mind you). I can't blame him for being restless. Unfortunately, announcing the changes doesn't go over well and he finds himself on the run with the El Cazador and crew, though the Council puts it out that they've kidnapped him.
Add in some massively screwed up members of the Church and a wicked plot to destroy the source of the Meridian, and this book grabs you from the first page and doesn't let you go until the end.
I loved it...right up until the very end. I'm not sure how I feel about the ultimate ending of the book, when Callum and Jannis have their chance to finally be together. Granted, I know it's a romance novel and they have to have a happily ever after, but I fully expected some other way of finding it than what they did. It was the ending that got this knocked down by a half-star. I can't quite put my finger on just why the ending bothered me the way it did, but...reading is very subjective.
Still, don't let me opinion deter you. Read. The. Book. Read it now! Well, if you've read the first two that is. If you haven't, then go back, read them, and THEN read this book.
Keep on writing, Ms. Croft. I'll eagerly keep reading! I gotta get me my Croft fix on a regular basis.
In a way this book was darker than other entries in the series. Don't get me wrong, none of the books have been light and fluffy, but this one just seemed more...deadly. And be prepared because lots of people die. People I wasn't expecting to die.
Tannis - ahhh, finally get to get inside the enigmatic captain's head. That was fantastic. I loved her mixture of vulnerability and witch with a b. She has her reasons for rebuffing the "Leader of the Universe" (Callum, as he's referred to many times, and not in complimentary ways), but as time grows short for a multitude of reasons, these two finally get their chance to find their way to one another. I loved her single-minded focus on getting the Meridian treatment, and then her decision on that factor.
Callum - heh. Wow, the man has serious issues. I mean, c'mon. He's got wings sprouting from his back thanks to the Meridian, and he wants to be honest with the universe about what the Meridian treatments can end up doing (after about 500 years, mind you). I can't blame him for being restless. Unfortunately, announcing the changes doesn't go over well and he finds himself on the run with the El Cazador and crew, though the Council puts it out that they've kidnapped him.
Add in some massively screwed up members of the Church and a wicked plot to destroy the source of the Meridian, and this book grabs you from the first page and doesn't let you go until the end.
I loved it...right up until the very end. I'm not sure how I feel about the ultimate ending of the book, when Callum and Jannis have their chance to finally be together. Granted, I know it's a romance novel and they have to have a happily ever after, but I fully expected some other way of finding it than what they did. It was the ending that got this knocked down by a half-star. I can't quite put my finger on just why the ending bothered me the way it did, but...reading is very subjective.
Still, don't let me opinion deter you. Read. The. Book. Read it now! Well, if you've read the first two that is. If you haven't, then go back, read them, and THEN read this book.
Keep on writing, Ms. Croft. I'll eagerly keep reading! I gotta get me my Croft fix on a regular basis.
October 22, 2014
The main focus of Book #3 in Croft’s Blood Hunter Trilogy is half human half snake Captain Tannis. After years of being experimented on in a research laboratory, Tannis just wants to finish this final mission for the El Cazador so that she can finally get the immortality treatment she’s always desired. Except this final mission is going to be the toughest that the El Cazador crew has ever faced: guarding the most powerful man in the universe Callum Meridian. Facing physical battles himself, Callum’s forced to hire the rebel crew of the EC to help him find answers about his ever-changing condition. The pathway to the truth is rocky as his people do not wish him to reveal the truth and build a coup against him. Tannis just wants the pay day to become normal while Callum wants to shed some like and spark some fires along the way.
Death Defying is a thrill seeking adventure that will leave you breathless and glued to the edge of your seat. This fast paced read will get your blood flowing and your blood pressure inching up and up. Croft has outdone herself with this highly descriptive and imaginative additional the Blood Hunters series. Her attention to detail will leave the reader feelings as if they are living in the same world with these very well developed characters. Croft has a knack for building tough as nails yet vulnerable characters. Tannis is a serious kick ass chick with a knack for being bitchy. Yet, she has this soft spot of vulnerability for those around her. Callum is man riddled with inner and outer turmoil. He cannot seem to keep his calm and humility when he discovers his back is donning a newly sprouted pair of wings. You will not see the plot twists and turns coming at all and for me this makes this book even better. After awhile you often don’t get that feeling of surprise when reading the same genre, but Croft has managed to surprise this blogger to her very core. You will not be able to pull yourself away from this one guys!
February 24, 2014
The third book in the Blood Hunter series is a thrilling adventure that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador is part snake and part human and she has one goal in life – to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves and this one last job will her there. Founding member of the collective, Callum Meridian is the most powerful man in the universe, but the Meridian is changing him and he’s not sure what he’s changing into. Determined to find the truth he hires the crew of the El Cazador to help him do it. But not everyone agrees with his plan, his own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is attempting a coup, and even the crew seems close to tossing him out him airlock. Defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier or fun.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot gets the adrenalin pumping with lots of action, intrigue and romance. The author brings the story to life with vibrant images and details that make it seem as if the reader is part of the story. The strong compelling characters grab the reader’s attention and doesn’t let go and are easily related to.
The attraction between Tannis and Callum explodes from every page, but the romance has lots of obstacles to be overcome not to mention that they are constantly fighting for the lives which make for a very entertaining and engaging read. A couple of scenes brings tears to the eyes and there are quite a few laughs caused by snarky dialogue and characters attitudes.
The author introduces new characters that are as fascinating as the previous characters and the story line just keeps getting more absorbing and enjoyable. I totally caught up in the story from beginning to end and while I was upset at a couple of events, it is obvious that they had to happen or the story wouldn’t have been as believable. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series, I can see several possibilities, but I do believe the Nina Croft will just keep surprising me.
Captain Tannis of the starship El Cazador is part snake and part human and she has one goal in life – to earn enough credits to pay for the Meridian treatment to achieve the immortality she craves and this one last job will her there. Founding member of the collective, Callum Meridian is the most powerful man in the universe, but the Meridian is changing him and he’s not sure what he’s changing into. Determined to find the truth he hires the crew of the El Cazador to help him do it. But not everyone agrees with his plan, his own people will stop at nothing to prevent the truth coming out, the Church is attempting a coup, and even the crew seems close to tossing him out him airlock. Defying death has never been more dangerous, sexier or fun.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot gets the adrenalin pumping with lots of action, intrigue and romance. The author brings the story to life with vibrant images and details that make it seem as if the reader is part of the story. The strong compelling characters grab the reader’s attention and doesn’t let go and are easily related to.
The attraction between Tannis and Callum explodes from every page, but the romance has lots of obstacles to be overcome not to mention that they are constantly fighting for the lives which make for a very entertaining and engaging read. A couple of scenes brings tears to the eyes and there are quite a few laughs caused by snarky dialogue and characters attitudes.
The author introduces new characters that are as fascinating as the previous characters and the story line just keeps getting more absorbing and enjoyable. I totally caught up in the story from beginning to end and while I was upset at a couple of events, it is obvious that they had to happen or the story wouldn’t have been as believable. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series, I can see several possibilities, but I do believe the Nina Croft will just keep surprising me.
March 9, 2014
Just finished it and it was a nice read but there were some points I had troubles with
First of all, this was my first Nina Croft book and also the first book I read in this series. I don't think it is necessary to read them in order but it maybe would give you more appreciation for the side characters.
The Story:
Tannis is Captain of the El Cazador, who takes different jobs for money. her goal is to save enough money for the Meridian Treatment. Her hopefully last job is for the Big Boss of the Collective, Callum Meridian. Her crew is not very excited about this job but they agree to go with her - although they do not really know what the job entails.
Callum wants to find out the truth about their Treatment and their developments. he was the leader of the Collective for the last 500 years and grew bored and now he wants to find out what his researcher never could.
But from the moment he steps on the El Cazador, everything changes and nothing goes according to plan
the story was nice but I was not really convinced and the suspense was very mild for me
the characters:
Callum was at the beginning a big arrogant asshole, than he lost all alpha male appeall for me because he wallowed in self-pity, but then in the second half there was a nice change in him and at the end, I really liked him.
Tannis was an interesting character - very stubborn and tough, but also vulnerable and she had this big dream in her head, she could not let go of.
Unfortunately I could not really get into these two, I just found no connection. and I did not get the sparks between them.
I absolutely loved Rico - he is one of the crew and the owner of the ship, but for me he was the most interesting characters in this book.
all in all it was a nice read, but it could have been better. I had definitely trouble with getting into this story and the end was a bit rushed and not really satisfying for me.
Disclaimer: I got an advanced copy of this book for an honest review
First of all, this was my first Nina Croft book and also the first book I read in this series. I don't think it is necessary to read them in order but it maybe would give you more appreciation for the side characters.
The Story:
Tannis is Captain of the El Cazador, who takes different jobs for money. her goal is to save enough money for the Meridian Treatment. Her hopefully last job is for the Big Boss of the Collective, Callum Meridian. Her crew is not very excited about this job but they agree to go with her - although they do not really know what the job entails.
Callum wants to find out the truth about their Treatment and their developments. he was the leader of the Collective for the last 500 years and grew bored and now he wants to find out what his researcher never could.
But from the moment he steps on the El Cazador, everything changes and nothing goes according to plan
the story was nice but I was not really convinced and the suspense was very mild for me
the characters:
Callum was at the beginning a big arrogant asshole, than he lost all alpha male appeall for me because he wallowed in self-pity, but then in the second half there was a nice change in him and at the end, I really liked him.
Tannis was an interesting character - very stubborn and tough, but also vulnerable and she had this big dream in her head, she could not let go of.
Unfortunately I could not really get into these two, I just found no connection. and I did not get the sparks between them.
I absolutely loved Rico - he is one of the crew and the owner of the ship, but for me he was the most interesting characters in this book.
all in all it was a nice read, but it could have been better. I had definitely trouble with getting into this story and the end was a bit rushed and not really satisfying for me.
Disclaimer: I got an advanced copy of this book for an honest review
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