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Dark Mission #4.5
Wicked Lies: A Dark Mission Steamy M/M Paranormal Romance – Healing Love Story
In Karina Cooper's latest Dark Mission novella, Wicked Lies, Jonas Stone bursts forth from the shadows to lead his own passionate adventure to love. Stone's first independent operation is to rescue Danny Granger, the insurrection leader's imprisoned grandson.
Jonas must stay by his side as he heals. The longer he stays, the closer they get. Bold, honest and brimming with positive energy, Danny is the kind of man Jonas would like to be--and more.
Jonas learns that life happens while you're making other plans. In this steamy paranormal romance it's time to let go of the secrets, lies, and masks...
Jonas must stay by his side as he heals. The longer he stays, the closer they get. Bold, honest and brimming with positive energy, Danny is the kind of man Jonas would like to be--and more.
Jonas learns that life happens while you're making other plans. In this steamy paranormal romance it's time to let go of the secrets, lies, and masks...
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 5, 2013
235 people want to read
About the author
Karina Cooper
23 books265 followersAfter writing happily ever afters for all of her friends in school, Karina Cooper eventually grew up (sort of), went to work in the real world (kind of), where she decided that making stuff up was way more fun (true!). She is the author of dark and sexy paranormal romance, steampunk urban fantasy, and writes across multiple genres with mad glee.
One part glamour, one part dork and all imagination, Karina is also a gamer, an airship captain’s wife, and a steampunk fashionista. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with a husband, a menagerie, a severe coffee habit, and a passel of adopted gamer geeks. Visit her at www.karinacooper.com, because she says so.
One part glamour, one part dork and all imagination, Karina is also a gamer, an airship captain’s wife, and a steampunk fashionista. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with a husband, a menagerie, a severe coffee habit, and a passel of adopted gamer geeks. Visit her at www.karinacooper.com, because she says so.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 28, 2018
Rating 3 1/2
Wicked Lies is book 4.5 in the Dark Mission Series. Don't be like me and read this one first. Grab the others and read them in order. Some reviewers say this story stands on its own and it kind of does because it's an intimate little snapshot into the romance between Jonas and Danny but there are many interesting aspects mentioned that left me wanting to know more. And I would've known more had I read the previous books. My fault entirely, I know, but I got excited when I heard a big publisher like Avon was releasing a male/male novella and I had to read it asap!
First off the story is intriguing and sensual but I am so PO'd at myself for reading this out of order. Jonas Stone is a troubleshooter for a group of rebels. In this world, the "Church" and its twisted morals have created a group called the "Mission" who hunt down and torture anyone suspected of witchcraft. I'm a little confused about the back story but that's the gist. When the novella begins Jonas is attempting to lead a hostage to safety using only his voice. Danny is the grandson of Jonas's leader and Jonas cannot fail. Jonas is gay but because of the "Church's" views he's had to keep his secret to himself and close himself off to emotional entanglements. But then Danny starts flirting over the com and Jonas flirts back telling himself he'll do just about anything to lead the guy to safety. . .
This was my favorite part of the story. It’s tense, intimate, character focused and, despite everything going on, there’s some fun, sexy dialogue happening through those comms and this bit makes me want to track down the entire series and read them in order. Danny falls a little bit in love with the angelic voice before he ever sets eyes on Jonas. Once they're whisked away to a safe-house together, Danny realizes Jonas is "The One" even though he's unsure if Jonas is even into him. Jonas only deals in one night stands and doesn't want to get involved with Danny but the guy is persistent, into him and pretty damn sexy. Seriously, why resist? LOL. The trouble comes after they, um, get involved and Jonas's allows his fear to consume him.
This is the part I had a little trouble with because the story is short and there isn't enough room to explore Jonas's past. He is scarred both emotionally and physically and I'm guessing this happened in a previous book. He pushes Danny away because he makes him want something he never expected to have. I wanted explanations, mushy confessions, flashbacks to past hurts, just something more. I didn't feel the deep emotional pull that I so hoped for because I wasn't getting the whole picture here and things moved too fast. I guess I'm spoiled after reading Amy Lane who drags you down into the darkest depths and leaves you there to suffer in agony for hundreds of pages. I did like Jonas and thought him an interesting character and Danny was refreshingly brave, confident and honest but their story was just too short and relied too much on insta-love. Hopefully they'll appear in a sequel together someday and I'll be the first to click on the "Buy Me now" link. Rating? 3.5
Wicked Lies is book 4.5 in the Dark Mission Series. Don't be like me and read this one first. Grab the others and read them in order. Some reviewers say this story stands on its own and it kind of does because it's an intimate little snapshot into the romance between Jonas and Danny but there are many interesting aspects mentioned that left me wanting to know more. And I would've known more had I read the previous books. My fault entirely, I know, but I got excited when I heard a big publisher like Avon was releasing a male/male novella and I had to read it asap!
First off the story is intriguing and sensual but I am so PO'd at myself for reading this out of order. Jonas Stone is a troubleshooter for a group of rebels. In this world, the "Church" and its twisted morals have created a group called the "Mission" who hunt down and torture anyone suspected of witchcraft. I'm a little confused about the back story but that's the gist. When the novella begins Jonas is attempting to lead a hostage to safety using only his voice. Danny is the grandson of Jonas's leader and Jonas cannot fail. Jonas is gay but because of the "Church's" views he's had to keep his secret to himself and close himself off to emotional entanglements. But then Danny starts flirting over the com and Jonas flirts back telling himself he'll do just about anything to lead the guy to safety. . .
“Maybe it was the pain. Maybe it was the surreal kind of intimacy in the small cell; just him and a mysterious voice from God. He couldn't see Jonas’s face. Didn't even know what to picture, with that smooth-as-milk-chocolate tenor and decisive optimism. He kept one dirty hand cupped over his ear, only vaguely aware he did it.
“With a voice like that,” Danny murmured, his chin sinking to his chest, “I’ll follow you into hell itself.”
This was my favorite part of the story. It’s tense, intimate, character focused and, despite everything going on, there’s some fun, sexy dialogue happening through those comms and this bit makes me want to track down the entire series and read them in order. Danny falls a little bit in love with the angelic voice before he ever sets eyes on Jonas. Once they're whisked away to a safe-house together, Danny realizes Jonas is "The One" even though he's unsure if Jonas is even into him. Jonas only deals in one night stands and doesn't want to get involved with Danny but the guy is persistent, into him and pretty damn sexy. Seriously, why resist? LOL. The trouble comes after they, um, get involved and Jonas's allows his fear to consume him.
Jonas didn’t play with the nice ones, and damn it, Danny was a nice one. He deserved hand-holding and shared smiles and hi, how was your day?, not the hard, quick fuck of a man who didn’t deal with morning-afters. Jonas didn’t play well with others.
This is the part I had a little trouble with because the story is short and there isn't enough room to explore Jonas's past. He is scarred both emotionally and physically and I'm guessing this happened in a previous book. He pushes Danny away because he makes him want something he never expected to have. I wanted explanations, mushy confessions, flashbacks to past hurts, just something more. I didn't feel the deep emotional pull that I so hoped for because I wasn't getting the whole picture here and things moved too fast. I guess I'm spoiled after reading Amy Lane who drags you down into the darkest depths and leaves you there to suffer in agony for hundreds of pages. I did like Jonas and thought him an interesting character and Danny was refreshingly brave, confident and honest but their story was just too short and relied too much on insta-love. Hopefully they'll appear in a sequel together someday and I'll be the first to click on the "Buy Me now" link. Rating? 3.5
March 22, 2013
Review
****This book was part of a blog tour, I received a copy for my honest review****
I have never read a Karina Cooper novel before but after this short, I am officially curious as how the rest of this series goes.
Obviously when you start this book, there are things that are happening and characters you would know if you had read the previous books in the series. I felt a little disorientated, but that quickly stopped when I got into the characters of Danny and Jonas.
So we start this book with Danny being interrogated and beaten for information. Jonas is surveying the whole thing trying to find the best way to rescue him. Through his viewing Jonas is drawn to the strength in Danny and his nature. Although he keeps his walls up and his attraction down by thinking making excuses as to why his feelings and attraction is foolish. However , living with Danny while he heals proves to hard for the both of them and they both give into temptation
The action of this book was very well written while setting the stage for the meeting of these two characters, building the tension through their back and forward conversation during the rescue. I loved Danny's character and how he seemed to be the one who had all the answers and was the most confident even though he was the younger one. He was truly decided in his feelings of Jonas and he set out to get what he wanted, to break through Jonas's lies.His more dominant personality made for a some beautiful steamy scenes between these two men.
This was only a short, novella from this series. I am going to have to go back and read the others so that some of my questions will be answered. But apart from that issue, that is completely my fault for dropping in, in the middle of a story, I really loved this story. I felt the connection between the characters and liked the story of there beginnings.I am curious as to what is actually going on and I am a sucker for romance suspense books. I will happily read any of the other books in Dark Mission Series.
****This book was part of a blog tour, I received a copy for my honest review****
I have never read a Karina Cooper novel before but after this short, I am officially curious as how the rest of this series goes.
Obviously when you start this book, there are things that are happening and characters you would know if you had read the previous books in the series. I felt a little disorientated, but that quickly stopped when I got into the characters of Danny and Jonas.
So we start this book with Danny being interrogated and beaten for information. Jonas is surveying the whole thing trying to find the best way to rescue him. Through his viewing Jonas is drawn to the strength in Danny and his nature. Although he keeps his walls up and his attraction down by thinking making excuses as to why his feelings and attraction is foolish. However , living with Danny while he heals proves to hard for the both of them and they both give into temptation
The action of this book was very well written while setting the stage for the meeting of these two characters, building the tension through their back and forward conversation during the rescue. I loved Danny's character and how he seemed to be the one who had all the answers and was the most confident even though he was the younger one. He was truly decided in his feelings of Jonas and he set out to get what he wanted, to break through Jonas's lies.His more dominant personality made for a some beautiful steamy scenes between these two men.
This was only a short, novella from this series. I am going to have to go back and read the others so that some of my questions will be answered. But apart from that issue, that is completely my fault for dropping in, in the middle of a story, I really loved this story. I felt the connection between the characters and liked the story of there beginnings.I am curious as to what is actually going on and I am a sucker for romance suspense books. I will happily read any of the other books in Dark Mission Series.
September 6, 2013
I liked this story, I've read a few of the M/F romances set in the same worldbuilding, but I *think* this stands alone nicely. It was a sweet story but the part that stands out most in my mind is the smokin' hot first kiss--I'm a sucker for a good kiss scene.
March 7, 2013
First off, go buy this now, all the proceeds are going to the It Gets Better Project and for $2 you get a fantastic story & you donate to a cause that deserves all your support.
I’ll wait......okay; glad to see you took care of that.
This is the story of 2 damaged men, Danny, very recently, mostly physically and Jonas, who has been that way for a long time, physically but mostly emotionally. This isn’t an easy read as it is a dark world that they live in but there was a lot that made me smile while reading.
Jonas saves Danny from being tortured by the Church that runs everything in this post-apocalyptic world. This is how they forge the bond that ultimately brings them together. Danny needs time to heal from his injuries and Jonas stays with him while he is healing. Danny recognizes his interest in Jonas but Jonas has hidden who he is for so long that he’s unable to accept Danny’s attraction as anything but physical. He also feels that Danny sees him as a savior and therefore dismisses the possibility that what they feel for each other can be real. And, by the way, Jonas has extensive injuries from an accident that happened a long time ago. This makes him think that young, athletic Danny can’t be interested in him. Danny sees the strength that Jonas has but can’t recognize and the need that he has to have someone in his life but can’t admit to. In the end it is Danny that saves Jonas from his fears about who he is and what he needs in life.
I wouldn’t say this has a HEA as there are a lot of things that they will need to work out to stay together but they are on the way at the end. I think you can easily read this without having read the series.
I’ll wait......okay; glad to see you took care of that.
This is the story of 2 damaged men, Danny, very recently, mostly physically and Jonas, who has been that way for a long time, physically but mostly emotionally. This isn’t an easy read as it is a dark world that they live in but there was a lot that made me smile while reading.
Jonas saves Danny from being tortured by the Church that runs everything in this post-apocalyptic world. This is how they forge the bond that ultimately brings them together. Danny needs time to heal from his injuries and Jonas stays with him while he is healing. Danny recognizes his interest in Jonas but Jonas has hidden who he is for so long that he’s unable to accept Danny’s attraction as anything but physical. He also feels that Danny sees him as a savior and therefore dismisses the possibility that what they feel for each other can be real. And, by the way, Jonas has extensive injuries from an accident that happened a long time ago. This makes him think that young, athletic Danny can’t be interested in him. Danny sees the strength that Jonas has but can’t recognize and the need that he has to have someone in his life but can’t admit to. In the end it is Danny that saves Jonas from his fears about who he is and what he needs in life.
I wouldn’t say this has a HEA as there are a lot of things that they will need to work out to stay together but they are on the way at the end. I think you can easily read this without having read the series.
November 8, 2024
Fifty years before the events of these stories, Seattle was devasted by a massive earthquake. None saw it coming, except the witches and who could they tell and be believed?
The new Seattle was rebuilt upon the ruins, the old government was dismantled, including law enforcement. A cathedral was built and its missionaries sent out, not to protect and serve the citizens, but to hunt down (killing if necessary) witches and those who aid them.
I suggest you read these in order, each couple's story is "complete" with their novel, but the backstory continues and develops and so they read better in order.
Jonas Stone has been undercover with the Mission for some time. Now the Witch's group leader's grandson, Danny, has been captured and is being tortured for information. Jonas since he is on the premises and knows the layout, schedules, etc. volunteers to break Danny out.
The new Seattle was rebuilt upon the ruins, the old government was dismantled, including law enforcement. A cathedral was built and its missionaries sent out, not to protect and serve the citizens, but to hunt down (killing if necessary) witches and those who aid them.
I suggest you read these in order, each couple's story is "complete" with their novel, but the backstory continues and develops and so they read better in order.
Jonas Stone has been undercover with the Mission for some time. Now the Witch's group leader's grandson, Danny, has been captured and is being tortured for information. Jonas since he is on the premises and knows the layout, schedules, etc. volunteers to break Danny out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2020
I would have given a 5 star but I think the writer could have written it into a full book instead a short story
August 22, 2013
Overall Rating 4.5 out of 5.0 Stars
Summary
Wicked Lies weaves the tale of Jonas Stone- the battle weary operative who has seen more in his thirty odd years than most as he tackles his first independent operation- the rescue of Danny Granger- the grandson of his beloved leader from the clutches of the mission. After a daring escape, it falls to Jonas to make sure the young, confident, honest and breath-taking Danny recovers. Question is will Jonas ever recover from him?
Overall Impression
If the truth is told I don’t really read that many romances for enjoyment. I often find them to be silly and filled with unnecessary filler material that really doesn’t move the plot along. I do however, have a “guilty pleasures” collection of authors- ones that I will usually snap up when I see them in stores and have a little extra money.
Karina Cooper just got added to the list- and in a big way.
Make no mistake- this tightly woven tale is a love story. It is as real and complex as any romance in the real world- refreshingly so. The fears, trepidations, missteps and misunderstandings of these two men are laid bare for the reader, along with the passion and electricity that these two men develop for each other. Time and time again I found myself cheering, cajoling, and arguing not with the author as I often do, but rather with the characters in the story.
When I start to see the fictional characters in the book as real flesh and blood people- I know that I’ve stumbled onto a writer worthy of my respect.
Another aspect that I adored about this story is the presentation of Jonas. He isn’t pretty, and many would consider him a broken man, both physically and emotionally. And yet, Danny falls for him, head over heels- not out of pity or some sense of obligation, but because he simply does- in a wild, crazy, school boy crush that blossoms into something more kind of way. It sends a fantastic message that anyone and everyone has the chance to be loved for who they are, not what the world expects them to be. It’s a fantastic- and much needed message to send out into the world.
If I could find any drawbacks to the story they are these – 1) the story wasn’t long enough. I would have like to see the relationship between the characters develop more, and some additional information about the background presented. 2) Sometimes the relationship between the different factions- the Mission, Holy Order, witches and common people were a bit confusing, but again that’s how things are in real life, right?
All in all, a great read with a great message. It is worth adding to your library without hesitation.
Rating system:
0 Stars – Great for kindling or wasting space on your hard drive
1 Star – Perfect gift for that person you can’t stand
2 Stars – Put it on your to Borrow list
3 Stars – Buy it if you get the chance- worth a weekend read.
4 Stars – This is definitely something to add to your library
5 Stars – Impulse Buy Approved.
Summary
Wicked Lies weaves the tale of Jonas Stone- the battle weary operative who has seen more in his thirty odd years than most as he tackles his first independent operation- the rescue of Danny Granger- the grandson of his beloved leader from the clutches of the mission. After a daring escape, it falls to Jonas to make sure the young, confident, honest and breath-taking Danny recovers. Question is will Jonas ever recover from him?
Overall Impression
If the truth is told I don’t really read that many romances for enjoyment. I often find them to be silly and filled with unnecessary filler material that really doesn’t move the plot along. I do however, have a “guilty pleasures” collection of authors- ones that I will usually snap up when I see them in stores and have a little extra money.
Karina Cooper just got added to the list- and in a big way.
Make no mistake- this tightly woven tale is a love story. It is as real and complex as any romance in the real world- refreshingly so. The fears, trepidations, missteps and misunderstandings of these two men are laid bare for the reader, along with the passion and electricity that these two men develop for each other. Time and time again I found myself cheering, cajoling, and arguing not with the author as I often do, but rather with the characters in the story.
When I start to see the fictional characters in the book as real flesh and blood people- I know that I’ve stumbled onto a writer worthy of my respect.
Another aspect that I adored about this story is the presentation of Jonas. He isn’t pretty, and many would consider him a broken man, both physically and emotionally. And yet, Danny falls for him, head over heels- not out of pity or some sense of obligation, but because he simply does- in a wild, crazy, school boy crush that blossoms into something more kind of way. It sends a fantastic message that anyone and everyone has the chance to be loved for who they are, not what the world expects them to be. It’s a fantastic- and much needed message to send out into the world.
If I could find any drawbacks to the story they are these – 1) the story wasn’t long enough. I would have like to see the relationship between the characters develop more, and some additional information about the background presented. 2) Sometimes the relationship between the different factions- the Mission, Holy Order, witches and common people were a bit confusing, but again that’s how things are in real life, right?
All in all, a great read with a great message. It is worth adding to your library without hesitation.
Rating system:
0 Stars – Great for kindling or wasting space on your hard drive
1 Star – Perfect gift for that person you can’t stand
2 Stars – Put it on your to Borrow list
3 Stars – Buy it if you get the chance- worth a weekend read.
4 Stars – This is definitely something to add to your library
5 Stars – Impulse Buy Approved.
March 29, 2013
I admit, I read this series out of order. This is in fact the first time I have read anything by Karina Cooper, but I do know I want to read more. Because I jumped into an established series, I found myself not quite understanding the intricacies of Church, Mission, or even what the world building was. After I realized I was in the middle of a series, I decided to focus more on the characters and how they react to each other and not so much on the world that surrounded them.
We meet Jonas Stone helping to rescue the rebel leader’s grandson, Danny, from the Mission. Slowly through the course of text, we learn Jonas is the quiet backbone of the insurrection. He works the computers and communications systems like he is a part of them. While he is behind the scenes, I am pretty sure the rebel group knows his worth even as he shies away from any limelight. The biggest thing we learn is that there is something in his past that has scarred him and left him slightly debilitated. This doesn’t stop him from living life, just makes him more jaded to everyone’s intentions.
Jonas quietly and stealthily walks Danny through his escape, but Jonas’s voice sounds like an angel to Danny. As Danny throbs in pain, he grasps to Jonas’s voice in his ear, encouraging him and supporting him with a will of spirit. Danny is in his early 20s while Jonas is in his 30s. I wouldn’t consider this a large age gap, but Jonas uses it to push Danny away, while Danny will have no part of it.
After the rescue, the two are in a safe house together. This is when the two dance around each other until Danny asks the blunt question: Are you gay? While Danny is forceful in his pursuit of Jonas, he is also a careful lover. But Jonas craves the pain to help him keep distance from his lovers. The two compliment each other from different spectrums. Danny grew up in a loving, supportive family, while Jonas grew up in the Church where homosexuality is frowned upon.
I was in love with how two people from different pasts connected with each other through just voices at first and later as they came to realize they were the one for each other. A wonderful HEA and now I am need of a buying spree to read the rest of this series. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for two such different men looking for love and redemption from their own hearts. A character driven story that grabbed my heart, take a chance and read this wonderful new novella.
We meet Jonas Stone helping to rescue the rebel leader’s grandson, Danny, from the Mission. Slowly through the course of text, we learn Jonas is the quiet backbone of the insurrection. He works the computers and communications systems like he is a part of them. While he is behind the scenes, I am pretty sure the rebel group knows his worth even as he shies away from any limelight. The biggest thing we learn is that there is something in his past that has scarred him and left him slightly debilitated. This doesn’t stop him from living life, just makes him more jaded to everyone’s intentions.
Jonas quietly and stealthily walks Danny through his escape, but Jonas’s voice sounds like an angel to Danny. As Danny throbs in pain, he grasps to Jonas’s voice in his ear, encouraging him and supporting him with a will of spirit. Danny is in his early 20s while Jonas is in his 30s. I wouldn’t consider this a large age gap, but Jonas uses it to push Danny away, while Danny will have no part of it.
After the rescue, the two are in a safe house together. This is when the two dance around each other until Danny asks the blunt question: Are you gay? While Danny is forceful in his pursuit of Jonas, he is also a careful lover. But Jonas craves the pain to help him keep distance from his lovers. The two compliment each other from different spectrums. Danny grew up in a loving, supportive family, while Jonas grew up in the Church where homosexuality is frowned upon.
I was in love with how two people from different pasts connected with each other through just voices at first and later as they came to realize they were the one for each other. A wonderful HEA and now I am need of a buying spree to read the rest of this series. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for two such different men looking for love and redemption from their own hearts. A character driven story that grabbed my heart, take a chance and read this wonderful new novella.
February 27, 2013
Yep, I did it again... I read out of order. However, it's a novella and sometimes you can do that. It's often used to get readers who have not read a series interested. However, some are inserted right in the middle where you have to have previous knowledge to really "get" the whole scenario. This was a bit of both.
While I had no trouble with the romance within, it was a bit of a head scratcher to get into the world. I didn't get much information, but I did get enough so I wasn't completely lost and it did perk up my interest into what had been going on. So, I do think that was a plus for the author.
The romance was intense. It starts out as a rescue mission where Danny is the victim being tortured and Jonas is the rescuer. Jonas helped Danny keep it together and so he developed a bit of a crush toward Jonas. Jonas was smitten with Danny from the start, but thought that any attraction given from him would be because of the hero complex and would not be true. Also, Jonas was broken. Not just psychologically, but physically as well. The physical really added to his view of himself and what he would accept.
Danny was always looking for "the one". Not always involved romantically, but had the confidence of youth on his side. His biggest worry was pushing it too far, especially if Jonas wasn't gay. I felt that his concern, even while being incredibly and horribly beaten was so sweet. He still could think about Jonas and how he was feeling.
What I enjoyed about this romance was that, although somewhat formula in the plot, it was also sweet. The victim became the one to help heal the one who rescued him. I also liked that although the lust was intense, both realized that the extreme circumstances may have also played a part in their emotions and were willing to slow it down to see if it would last. You don't get a complete ending, but I don't think you could in a novella. I suspect the romance will continue in the background of the other novels in this series.
I give this novella 4 stars. It was so sweet at times I really enjoyed it. It also made me curious about this world and how witches and their opposition play a part. I also liked that the author included a bit about her struggles in a note and made it about the "it gets better" campaign. This novella is set to be published on March 5th.
While I had no trouble with the romance within, it was a bit of a head scratcher to get into the world. I didn't get much information, but I did get enough so I wasn't completely lost and it did perk up my interest into what had been going on. So, I do think that was a plus for the author.
The romance was intense. It starts out as a rescue mission where Danny is the victim being tortured and Jonas is the rescuer. Jonas helped Danny keep it together and so he developed a bit of a crush toward Jonas. Jonas was smitten with Danny from the start, but thought that any attraction given from him would be because of the hero complex and would not be true. Also, Jonas was broken. Not just psychologically, but physically as well. The physical really added to his view of himself and what he would accept.
Danny was always looking for "the one". Not always involved romantically, but had the confidence of youth on his side. His biggest worry was pushing it too far, especially if Jonas wasn't gay. I felt that his concern, even while being incredibly and horribly beaten was so sweet. He still could think about Jonas and how he was feeling.
What I enjoyed about this romance was that, although somewhat formula in the plot, it was also sweet. The victim became the one to help heal the one who rescued him. I also liked that although the lust was intense, both realized that the extreme circumstances may have also played a part in their emotions and were willing to slow it down to see if it would last. You don't get a complete ending, but I don't think you could in a novella. I suspect the romance will continue in the background of the other novels in this series.
I give this novella 4 stars. It was so sweet at times I really enjoyed it. It also made me curious about this world and how witches and their opposition play a part. I also liked that the author included a bit about her struggles in a note and made it about the "it gets better" campaign. This novella is set to be published on March 5th.
March 6, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson:
*eARC received from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
Wicked Lies was an incredibly moving novella by the fabulous Karina Cooper & to make it even better, all proceeds are going to support a great Charity - the It Gets Better Project!
I love me some nerd, so when Karina had mentioned that Jonas's story would be coming up in a previous chat, I was very excited. In this crazy world of Supernaturals vs. the Church (where things are NEVER black and white), Jonas is the heir apparent for the tech genius spot of the rebel force, even though he used to be employed by the Church...
When the Rebellion leader's grandson is kidnapped and tortured, Jonas is called upon to help Danny escape. While on the brink of death, yet still holding out, Danny hears this voice on the other end of a comm and gains some hope. He instantly feels a connection and dubs Jonas his "angel". The interaction between Danny and Jonas during the escape was amazing; abstract and yet incredibly touching and emotional.
In true dark and gritty Karina Cooper fashion, however, there are no easy 'happily-ever-afters'. While Danny knows that he's gay and isn't shy about the fact that he is very interested in Jonas, he's got a long way to go both emotionally and physically to get over the trauma of his ordeal. Jonas on the other hand struggles with his sexuality because of the time he spent with the church, and has his own personal demons outside of that which he battles. This creates quite the wall between the two, and makes reading their struggles and surrender even more heart-felt.
This relationship pairing is stellar! Jonas and Danny are both similarly (yet opposing) tortured men, thrown into an action packed and intense situation and required to rely on only each other despite their hangups. It was awesome to see the give and take between the two, and the growth of character in just a short novella was nothing short of incredible.
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Wicked Lies 4 skulls and would definitely recommend it. It can be read as a stand-alone story, but the rest of Karina's DARK MISSION series is certainly worth checking out!
*eARC received from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
Wicked Lies was an incredibly moving novella by the fabulous Karina Cooper & to make it even better, all proceeds are going to support a great Charity - the It Gets Better Project!
I love me some nerd, so when Karina had mentioned that Jonas's story would be coming up in a previous chat, I was very excited. In this crazy world of Supernaturals vs. the Church (where things are NEVER black and white), Jonas is the heir apparent for the tech genius spot of the rebel force, even though he used to be employed by the Church...
When the Rebellion leader's grandson is kidnapped and tortured, Jonas is called upon to help Danny escape. While on the brink of death, yet still holding out, Danny hears this voice on the other end of a comm and gains some hope. He instantly feels a connection and dubs Jonas his "angel". The interaction between Danny and Jonas during the escape was amazing; abstract and yet incredibly touching and emotional.
In true dark and gritty Karina Cooper fashion, however, there are no easy 'happily-ever-afters'. While Danny knows that he's gay and isn't shy about the fact that he is very interested in Jonas, he's got a long way to go both emotionally and physically to get over the trauma of his ordeal. Jonas on the other hand struggles with his sexuality because of the time he spent with the church, and has his own personal demons outside of that which he battles. This creates quite the wall between the two, and makes reading their struggles and surrender even more heart-felt.
This relationship pairing is stellar! Jonas and Danny are both similarly (yet opposing) tortured men, thrown into an action packed and intense situation and required to rely on only each other despite their hangups. It was awesome to see the give and take between the two, and the growth of character in just a short novella was nothing short of incredible.
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Wicked Lies 4 skulls and would definitely recommend it. It can be read as a stand-alone story, but the rest of Karina's DARK MISSION series is certainly worth checking out!
March 17, 2013
I have been reading the Dark Mission books since the very beginning, and I was so surprised and excited when I found out A) this book is about Jonas; and B) it is a m/m novella. I have been intrigued by Jonas for, well, forever and I love that his character is gay and gets a romance of his own.
If you need a quick refresher, Jonas is the techie who worked for the Mission up until the end of the last book. His legs are messed up from an old injury. And he's always there to help out the heroes when they need support. Now, he is on a mission to save the grandson of the rebel leader.
Jonas is drawn to Danny from the moment he sees him on surveillance cameras, being tortured by Mission operatives. He organizes a rescue and the two make a quick connection over the coms. But it's not until they are alone in the safehouse that things really heat up. From there, Jonas has to decide whether to let Danny in, or shut him out, like all of the casual lovers who came before him.
So let me tell you what I liked. Both heroes are very compelling. I already sort-of loved Jonas from previous books, but we learn so much about him here. It's really interesting how much of him has been hidden from the other characters and the readers --and I'm not just talking about his sexual orientation. He hides himself! Here we really see him, maybe for the first time. (He's pretty screwed up, BTW.) --And Danny... I loved that he knew what he wanted and he didn't give up. I loved that he saw the beauty in Jonas and held on with both hands.
I also really enjoyed the sexual tension and the love scenes. Hot. And with attention both realism and detail. --In addition, I give bonus points for Karina Cooper giving just enough backstory to remind me what was going on, without any major info dump... plus cameos from familiar faces from previous books.
I only have two complaints. One, it was love too fast. It's my biggest peeve in romance of any subgenre. And I wished the story would have been longer. There was a lot of promo stuff behind the novella in my ebook and I felt the ending sneaked up and bit me. I would have enjoyed a whole 200+ pages devoted to watching these two make a go of it.
Rating: B
*ARC Provided by Avon
If you need a quick refresher, Jonas is the techie who worked for the Mission up until the end of the last book. His legs are messed up from an old injury. And he's always there to help out the heroes when they need support. Now, he is on a mission to save the grandson of the rebel leader.
Jonas is drawn to Danny from the moment he sees him on surveillance cameras, being tortured by Mission operatives. He organizes a rescue and the two make a quick connection over the coms. But it's not until they are alone in the safehouse that things really heat up. From there, Jonas has to decide whether to let Danny in, or shut him out, like all of the casual lovers who came before him.
So let me tell you what I liked. Both heroes are very compelling. I already sort-of loved Jonas from previous books, but we learn so much about him here. It's really interesting how much of him has been hidden from the other characters and the readers --and I'm not just talking about his sexual orientation. He hides himself! Here we really see him, maybe for the first time. (He's pretty screwed up, BTW.) --And Danny... I loved that he knew what he wanted and he didn't give up. I loved that he saw the beauty in Jonas and held on with both hands.
I also really enjoyed the sexual tension and the love scenes. Hot. And with attention both realism and detail. --In addition, I give bonus points for Karina Cooper giving just enough backstory to remind me what was going on, without any major info dump... plus cameos from familiar faces from previous books.
I only have two complaints. One, it was love too fast. It's my biggest peeve in romance of any subgenre. And I wished the story would have been longer. There was a lot of promo stuff behind the novella in my ebook and I felt the ending sneaked up and bit me. I would have enjoyed a whole 200+ pages devoted to watching these two make a go of it.
Rating: B
*ARC Provided by Avon
April 1, 2013
When I read that this was Avon’s first published M/M romance, I decided I needed to read it. I realize that M/M romance is out there but is definitely not mainstream unless it’s a threesome with a woman in between (check out Maya Banks, Lauren Dane, etc.)
In the face of the Catholic Church joining forces with the government to round up any and all witches to use for their own less-than-moral purposes, the world is torn apart -- figuratively and literally. An earthquake buried the majority of Seattle, yet man built on top of it. Danny, the grandson of the leader of an insurrection group against the Church, has been captured, and is being tortured for information. Jonas is there to help get him out, no matter what. Jonas flirts when he needs to, as he has in past books in this series, but something about Danny gets to him -- and the greatest part is that Danny won’t take any of Jonas’s bull.
Wicked Lies is a fantastic novella that shows that M/M romance can be tasteful, real and pretty damn sexy, without pushing it too far. Now, if the thought of two men together grosses you out or offends you morally, don’t read this. But it’s not too graphic, it’s not shoved in your face... rather, it’s a slow, steady build up of attraction, from the time Jonas first makes contact with Danny while he (Danny) is still imprisoned, up to when they meet and Jonas watches over Danny as he heals. Jonas, himself, needs to heal, in body and soul, and together these two find love within one another.
I am a firm believer that if it’s safe, sane and consensual, love is love and should be treated with respect. M/M, F/M, F/F, or any further combination... To quote another great series, “Love as Thou Wilt” -- a tattoo I have, from the Jacqueline Carey “Kushiel” series.
I’m very glad to see that Avon has taken a chance with this novella (baby steps) and that, thus far, it seems to be being received quite well. Four out of Five Flowers, and Four Flames because it gets pretty steamy.
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I write reviews for UrbanGirlReader.com with some truly awesome chicks. Go to the site for even more reviews!
In the face of the Catholic Church joining forces with the government to round up any and all witches to use for their own less-than-moral purposes, the world is torn apart -- figuratively and literally. An earthquake buried the majority of Seattle, yet man built on top of it. Danny, the grandson of the leader of an insurrection group against the Church, has been captured, and is being tortured for information. Jonas is there to help get him out, no matter what. Jonas flirts when he needs to, as he has in past books in this series, but something about Danny gets to him -- and the greatest part is that Danny won’t take any of Jonas’s bull.
Wicked Lies is a fantastic novella that shows that M/M romance can be tasteful, real and pretty damn sexy, without pushing it too far. Now, if the thought of two men together grosses you out or offends you morally, don’t read this. But it’s not too graphic, it’s not shoved in your face... rather, it’s a slow, steady build up of attraction, from the time Jonas first makes contact with Danny while he (Danny) is still imprisoned, up to when they meet and Jonas watches over Danny as he heals. Jonas, himself, needs to heal, in body and soul, and together these two find love within one another.
I am a firm believer that if it’s safe, sane and consensual, love is love and should be treated with respect. M/M, F/M, F/F, or any further combination... To quote another great series, “Love as Thou Wilt” -- a tattoo I have, from the Jacqueline Carey “Kushiel” series.
I’m very glad to see that Avon has taken a chance with this novella (baby steps) and that, thus far, it seems to be being received quite well. Four out of Five Flowers, and Four Flames because it gets pretty steamy.
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I write reviews for UrbanGirlReader.com with some truly awesome chicks. Go to the site for even more reviews!
March 11, 2013
This was a really short novella, yet it was soo good it has made me interested in reading Karina's Dark mission series, since this is the first book I've read by her, and her first male on male romance. I didn't know what to expect.
I really liked it, I wish it could have been longer with more details, so I could get a better feel on the characters, but the storyline itself was very well written and I liked the characters differences.
The story revovles around Danny, being a prisoner and tortured for a week before Jonas got him out of his cell and into a safe house, Danny having only heard Jonas' voice, which to Danny sounded like an angel since he decided it was Jonas' new nickname. Danny felt there were something between, even through the ear-pierce as Jonas guided Danny to freedom. What Danny did not know was Jonas is in heavy denial of his sexuality, he won't even give Danny the time of day.
Danny tries very hard to change Jonas mind. That is what I love about Danny, he's determination, even though he was burtally beaten and abused for days, he found the strength through all the pain, the broken bones and the bruises to get up on his feet and with the help of Jonas navigating, his way out to freedom.
Even after all that, he is still strong enough, confident enough not to let Jonas waaste their chance on the hapiness they can find together.
sigh he is like the perfect guy, and then there is Jonas with the deep dark past (which we haven't uncovered completely), his shame of who he is, with the help of Danny can he overcome his boundaries he has set up for himself, let it all go, and take the chance of being with his the one.
Like I said I think it was too short, I believe this could possibly have been a book, again I have not read any book in this series, so I do not know entirely how the plot and storyline looks like, but this book was really good and I wish it coudl haven been longer, that is a testament to how well written the author made this novella :-)
P.S I support the LGBTQ community and the It Gets Better project, I believe we are all different yet derserve to be treated with the same love and respect.
I really liked it, I wish it could have been longer with more details, so I could get a better feel on the characters, but the storyline itself was very well written and I liked the characters differences.
The story revovles around Danny, being a prisoner and tortured for a week before Jonas got him out of his cell and into a safe house, Danny having only heard Jonas' voice, which to Danny sounded like an angel since he decided it was Jonas' new nickname. Danny felt there were something between, even through the ear-pierce as Jonas guided Danny to freedom. What Danny did not know was Jonas is in heavy denial of his sexuality, he won't even give Danny the time of day.
Danny tries very hard to change Jonas mind. That is what I love about Danny, he's determination, even though he was burtally beaten and abused for days, he found the strength through all the pain, the broken bones and the bruises to get up on his feet and with the help of Jonas navigating, his way out to freedom.
Even after all that, he is still strong enough, confident enough not to let Jonas waaste their chance on the hapiness they can find together.
sigh he is like the perfect guy, and then there is Jonas with the deep dark past (which we haven't uncovered completely), his shame of who he is, with the help of Danny can he overcome his boundaries he has set up for himself, let it all go, and take the chance of being with his the one.
Like I said I think it was too short, I believe this could possibly have been a book, again I have not read any book in this series, so I do not know entirely how the plot and storyline looks like, but this book was really good and I wish it coudl haven been longer, that is a testament to how well written the author made this novella :-)
P.S I support the LGBTQ community and the It Gets Better project, I believe we are all different yet derserve to be treated with the same love and respect.
March 29, 2013
This is my first M/M review. I'll be honest, I wasn't really sure it would be my cup of tea going in. I'm glad I stepped outside my comfort zone and took a chance. I wasn't really sure what to expect but what I read was not it. Instead of being uncomfortable reading about Jonas and Danny, I was enthralled.
The Catholic Church and the government have teamed up to capture all witches in the area to enslave and use. There is a rebellion underway to take down this horrible organization and rescue all of the prisoners. When Jonas Stone is recruited by May, the leader of the rebellion, to rescue her captured grandson, Danny Granger, he figures its going to be all in a day's work. Little did he know that watching the "kid" as he's tortured and abused would cause such stirring feelings and huge reaction from within. Jonas has always done what's been needed to comfort a rescue during the missing - flirt with a woman, etc. - but he didn't realize that flirting with an known man would feel so....right. This isn't his first encounter with a man but he doesn't usually get attached or stick around for long in a relationship. Danny, he feels, could be different.
Wicked Lies has proved to be a super novella. The strength of Jonas (due to past injuries) and of Danny (due to current injuries) is admirable. They each have stories and secrets. Their interactions are tender at times and I found both characters to be very likable. Their romance isn't overly graphic or pushed down your throat. The author does a great job with this novella and provides good dialogue, good descriptive scenes, and a good plot.
Please note that this book contains a 2-male relationship. If you aren't sure about it (and aren't willing to step outside your comfort zone), or are against these types of relationships on moral grounds or whatever, please don't purchase this book. If you can be objective, keep an open mind, and read the book for what it is, and not let the sexual preferences of the characters distort your views, then please, purchase this book.
Review Copy Courtesy Of: AVON Books: An Imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
The Catholic Church and the government have teamed up to capture all witches in the area to enslave and use. There is a rebellion underway to take down this horrible organization and rescue all of the prisoners. When Jonas Stone is recruited by May, the leader of the rebellion, to rescue her captured grandson, Danny Granger, he figures its going to be all in a day's work. Little did he know that watching the "kid" as he's tortured and abused would cause such stirring feelings and huge reaction from within. Jonas has always done what's been needed to comfort a rescue during the missing - flirt with a woman, etc. - but he didn't realize that flirting with an known man would feel so....right. This isn't his first encounter with a man but he doesn't usually get attached or stick around for long in a relationship. Danny, he feels, could be different.
Wicked Lies has proved to be a super novella. The strength of Jonas (due to past injuries) and of Danny (due to current injuries) is admirable. They each have stories and secrets. Their interactions are tender at times and I found both characters to be very likable. Their romance isn't overly graphic or pushed down your throat. The author does a great job with this novella and provides good dialogue, good descriptive scenes, and a good plot.
Please note that this book contains a 2-male relationship. If you aren't sure about it (and aren't willing to step outside your comfort zone), or are against these types of relationships on moral grounds or whatever, please don't purchase this book. If you can be objective, keep an open mind, and read the book for what it is, and not let the sexual preferences of the characters distort your views, then please, purchase this book.
Review Copy Courtesy Of: AVON Books: An Imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2013
Jonas is helping to get Danny out of the Church’s clutches. When Danny gets out, he still has to recover from his wounds. Jonas stays in a safe house with him, to help aid his recovery. Along the way the two men deal with their feelings for one another.
Wicked Lies is a short from Cooper’s Dark Mission series. If you haven’t read the series this short might confuse readers. On the other hand if you are a fan of the Dark Mission series, you might enjoy it or be disappointed Jonas was only given a short.
Jonas has been in just about every Dark Mission novel. He worked for the church as their behind the scenes tech guy. Often he would mic back and forth with the Church’s opts. He doesn’t work for the Church anymore and is dealing with his guilt for working for them. Jonas is most likely one of the most interesting characters. He is still recovering from an old injury that messed up his legs pretty bad.
Cooper took one of the most interesting characters in her series, and paired him with Danny, who readers know very little about. While Jonas finds him attractive, who Danny is related to is a problem and Jonas’ own ideas about himself. Danny wasn’t my favorite character in this. I didn’t get a handle on his personality. This might have to do with the insta-love he has for Jonas. On top of that he never stops to wonder if he has fallen for this guy’s voice because Jonas saves him. It’s actually a condition. There is no building, or organics between them. There is extreme hesitation on Jonas part, but beyond that this short didn’t have enough pages to make it work for me.
How was the steamy scenes? Well that is something Cooper does well. On the other hand they are less believable to me when I feel that I am at a distance with the characters.
I think fans of the series will enjoy this short, but if they are like me, they wanted a full novel for Jonas. I don’t recommend it for readers who want to start out reading this series. I don’t know if they would understand a lot of things that are mentioned.
- Beth
Wicked Lies is a short from Cooper’s Dark Mission series. If you haven’t read the series this short might confuse readers. On the other hand if you are a fan of the Dark Mission series, you might enjoy it or be disappointed Jonas was only given a short.
Jonas has been in just about every Dark Mission novel. He worked for the church as their behind the scenes tech guy. Often he would mic back and forth with the Church’s opts. He doesn’t work for the Church anymore and is dealing with his guilt for working for them. Jonas is most likely one of the most interesting characters. He is still recovering from an old injury that messed up his legs pretty bad.
Cooper took one of the most interesting characters in her series, and paired him with Danny, who readers know very little about. While Jonas finds him attractive, who Danny is related to is a problem and Jonas’ own ideas about himself. Danny wasn’t my favorite character in this. I didn’t get a handle on his personality. This might have to do with the insta-love he has for Jonas. On top of that he never stops to wonder if he has fallen for this guy’s voice because Jonas saves him. It’s actually a condition. There is no building, or organics between them. There is extreme hesitation on Jonas part, but beyond that this short didn’t have enough pages to make it work for me.
How was the steamy scenes? Well that is something Cooper does well. On the other hand they are less believable to me when I feel that I am at a distance with the characters.
I think fans of the series will enjoy this short, but if they are like me, they wanted a full novel for Jonas. I don’t recommend it for readers who want to start out reading this series. I don’t know if they would understand a lot of things that are mentioned.
- Beth
March 16, 2013
Jonas is given the very important job of rescuing the grandson of the insurrection leader. He knows exactly how important it is to save him before the Mission breaks him. When he gets Danny out he has to stay with him while he heals. Doing this is harder than it sounds because he is fighting his feelings for Danny. What started out as harmless flirting to keep Danny calm may become more. Danny is young but he knows what he wants and goes after it. He doesn't hide anything from anyone and he may just have a few things to teach Jonas about his feelings and opening up.
Jonas is strong in some ways but he is also a broken man. He has many things that make him a mystery. He keeps his feelings to his self and pushes those that get to close away. He really doesn't feel worthy of anyone and keeps his wall up. Danny is young but very headstrong. He doesn't let the Mission break him. Even when they beat him he gets right back up. I really liked both these characters. They each seem to have what the other one needs to be complete.
I only read M/m books occasionally. I do think it is a good thing that more books have male couples in them lately and this one is done in a nice way. It does have some nice juicy scenes that add a delight to the book for me the chemistry is what is so good about this story. I have not read any of the previous books in this series and I didn't get to lost. You get the general idea of what is going on in he first chapter so no worries if you haven't read the series. It has action as Danny tries to survive the Mission and hot action between Danny and Jonas. You can see the sparks fly between the two before they ever meet face to face and it adds a great element to the book as you try to see how things will be when they do meet. I really enjoyed this book and if some man on man action does not bother you I say give this one a try. I am going to read the rest of this series to see what i have missed from this great author and hopefully get to see more of Jonas and Danny in future books. I want to see how they change.
Jonas is strong in some ways but he is also a broken man. He has many things that make him a mystery. He keeps his feelings to his self and pushes those that get to close away. He really doesn't feel worthy of anyone and keeps his wall up. Danny is young but very headstrong. He doesn't let the Mission break him. Even when they beat him he gets right back up. I really liked both these characters. They each seem to have what the other one needs to be complete.
I only read M/m books occasionally. I do think it is a good thing that more books have male couples in them lately and this one is done in a nice way. It does have some nice juicy scenes that add a delight to the book for me the chemistry is what is so good about this story. I have not read any of the previous books in this series and I didn't get to lost. You get the general idea of what is going on in he first chapter so no worries if you haven't read the series. It has action as Danny tries to survive the Mission and hot action between Danny and Jonas. You can see the sparks fly between the two before they ever meet face to face and it adds a great element to the book as you try to see how things will be when they do meet. I really enjoyed this book and if some man on man action does not bother you I say give this one a try. I am going to read the rest of this series to see what i have missed from this great author and hopefully get to see more of Jonas and Danny in future books. I want to see how they change.
March 8, 2013
Originally reviewed for The Book Vixen
In a Nutshell: Good MM romance with stellar beginning but slightly unresolved ending that bummed me out.
The Set Up: Jonas is tasked with leading his insurgent leader’s grandson out of prison to safety and helping him heal. Danny knows Jonas is his one but he has to convince the reluctant Jonas of this.
Why I Read this Book: This is a huge milestone for Avon publishing—their first MM romance! As an Avon Addict and an MM romance lover I knew I had to read this.
What I Liked: The beginning of this short novella is stellar. Danny is in prison and Jonas is his eyes and ears. The men communicate about more than just Danny’s prison break and this created an intimacy in short time which I thought was great.
What I Also Liked: I also liked that Danny and Jonas don’t fall into MM romance stereotypes. Jonas is older but he’s more fragile physically and emotionally; Danny is younger but self-confident and optimistic. The characters make the romance interesting as the men dance around each other. Their one sexual encounter was more euphemistic than in books published by MM publishers like Dreamspinner Press but it still provided the spice I like in my romances.
What I Didn’t Like: I didn’t like the ending. The romance between Jonas and Danny was unresolved in my opinion and didn’t have the emotional connectivity that I look for. I was disappointed since I really liked this romance up until this point. To be fair though, this is part of a MF paranormal series so perhaps readers will see more of Jonas and Danny’s romance in future books but as a non-series reader this doesn’t make me happy.
IMO: This is a good romance I really enjoyed up until the ending.
In a Nutshell: Good MM romance with stellar beginning but slightly unresolved ending that bummed me out.
The Set Up: Jonas is tasked with leading his insurgent leader’s grandson out of prison to safety and helping him heal. Danny knows Jonas is his one but he has to convince the reluctant Jonas of this.
Why I Read this Book: This is a huge milestone for Avon publishing—their first MM romance! As an Avon Addict and an MM romance lover I knew I had to read this.
What I Liked: The beginning of this short novella is stellar. Danny is in prison and Jonas is his eyes and ears. The men communicate about more than just Danny’s prison break and this created an intimacy in short time which I thought was great.
What I Also Liked: I also liked that Danny and Jonas don’t fall into MM romance stereotypes. Jonas is older but he’s more fragile physically and emotionally; Danny is younger but self-confident and optimistic. The characters make the romance interesting as the men dance around each other. Their one sexual encounter was more euphemistic than in books published by MM publishers like Dreamspinner Press but it still provided the spice I like in my romances.
What I Didn’t Like: I didn’t like the ending. The romance between Jonas and Danny was unresolved in my opinion and didn’t have the emotional connectivity that I look for. I was disappointed since I really liked this romance up until this point. To be fair though, this is part of a MF paranormal series so perhaps readers will see more of Jonas and Danny’s romance in future books but as a non-series reader this doesn’t make me happy.
IMO: This is a good romance I really enjoyed up until the ending.
March 2, 2013
Jonas reminded me so much of Penelope Garcia (Criminal Minds.) He is the techy genius and often just the voice the operatives get vital information from. He refers to himself as their touchstone. He is so much more and he doesn’t even realize it. His current operation has him getting the wrongfully imprisoned Danny out of the mission interrogation cell he has ended up in. Danny is a member of the rebel force that is exposing the secrets that the Church has buried for far too long
I LOVED Jonas and Danny’s first interaction. Jonas is just the voice on the other end of a comm line. Danny is in a bad place emotionally and certainly physically. He has been captured by the Church. Jonas is talking Danny through the process of the escape. The whole process of getting Danny out was so touching and sweet. Danny doesn’t even know who the voice belongs to. All he knows is that if he expects to survive this ordeal he needs to listen to the angel on the other end of the comm line.
Danny and Jonas do not have an easy start. Danny is badly wounded and requires much care during his rehabilitation. Jonas has spent far too many years within the Church. He is not exactly comfortable with his sexuality. Danny has been raised by a loving caring family that always supported his decisions. The multiple similarities and contrasts rocked. Both men are broken to an extent and need healing, emotionally and physically. Jonas always been the rock to everyone, but Danny sees that Jonas needs a rock of his own. I just loved these two. They were so well matched.
I think a reader could easily read this novella as a stand-alone. It may even be a way to test the waters of this dark and gritty world.
I LOVED Jonas and Danny’s first interaction. Jonas is just the voice on the other end of a comm line. Danny is in a bad place emotionally and certainly physically. He has been captured by the Church. Jonas is talking Danny through the process of the escape. The whole process of getting Danny out was so touching and sweet. Danny doesn’t even know who the voice belongs to. All he knows is that if he expects to survive this ordeal he needs to listen to the angel on the other end of the comm line.
Danny and Jonas do not have an easy start. Danny is badly wounded and requires much care during his rehabilitation. Jonas has spent far too many years within the Church. He is not exactly comfortable with his sexuality. Danny has been raised by a loving caring family that always supported his decisions. The multiple similarities and contrasts rocked. Both men are broken to an extent and need healing, emotionally and physically. Jonas always been the rock to everyone, but Danny sees that Jonas needs a rock of his own. I just loved these two. They were so well matched.
I think a reader could easily read this novella as a stand-alone. It may even be a way to test the waters of this dark and gritty world.
July 26, 2016
I have heard many wonderful things about Karina Cooper and her Dark Mission novels but for some reason, I have a difficult time getting into them. I have purchased a couple of titles and been given others to review and I haven’t been able to finish a single one. According to several reviewers I follow, she writes action packed and smoking hot PNR, which is most definitely to my taste, yet I couldn’t finish them.
When Avon asked the Addicts to read this title, I hesitated. However, unlike her previous novels, I had no trouble finishing this story. Either because the length was just right or because the romance featured two men (one of my favorite types of romance!).
While I was confused about who Jonas was and the need to rescue Danny, it wasn’t a bad story. The story was very much in the now; there wasn’t much in the way of back story presented. The chemistry between Jonas and Danny was apparent from the start and Cooper laid the groundwork for a future relationship between them realistically. The quickness of the relationship between Jonas and Danny reminded me of the romance between Zane and Barrie in Linda Howard’s Mackenzie’s Pleasure.
This novella does assume you have read previous Dark Missions stories–and I suggest you do because I had no idea who people were and what the “mission” of this group was–and starts right in the middle of an ongoing story line. Having read this, I will have to give the Dark Mission series another try
*review copy provided by publisher for honest review
When Avon asked the Addicts to read this title, I hesitated. However, unlike her previous novels, I had no trouble finishing this story. Either because the length was just right or because the romance featured two men (one of my favorite types of romance!).
While I was confused about who Jonas was and the need to rescue Danny, it wasn’t a bad story. The story was very much in the now; there wasn’t much in the way of back story presented. The chemistry between Jonas and Danny was apparent from the start and Cooper laid the groundwork for a future relationship between them realistically. The quickness of the relationship between Jonas and Danny reminded me of the romance between Zane and Barrie in Linda Howard’s Mackenzie’s Pleasure.
This novella does assume you have read previous Dark Missions stories–and I suggest you do because I had no idea who people were and what the “mission” of this group was–and starts right in the middle of an ongoing story line. Having read this, I will have to give the Dark Mission series another try
*review copy provided by publisher for honest review
May 7, 2013
Fluttering Thoughts originally posted at Butterfly-o-Meter Books on MAR 26, 2013:
World Building: Awesome mix of paranormal and paramilitary-type of setting, it gets adrenaline pumping on all sorts of accounts. :D
Characters: Jonas and Danny were easy to love and they felt very real. They were both very charismatic and had awesome chemistry. Every emotion they had jumped from the page and bit at my heart, I loved them separately and as a couple. Their one on one was hot, intense but had also feeling. Loved them.
Plot: Active, action packed and tense. The romance arc was great, a lot of tension there as well. Yummy quickie read, if you'll pardon my French.
Writing: Third person narrative from both main couple characters. I loved their voices and action scenes were super-full of tension.
Curb Appeal: My first response to this was "This must be showed endless love and encouraged!", and that was without taking into consideration the awesome cover or the hooking blurb. Compulsive buy material, for the win.
I particularly loved Wicked Lies because it had a beautiful dedication and a beautiful Author's Note at the end, basically saying "It gets better!" - I applaud her message as well as her awesome skills. So I'm applauding Avon Impulse on this release, and I generally don't applaud publishers. But this time I am, and I hope you will too.
World Building: Awesome mix of paranormal and paramilitary-type of setting, it gets adrenaline pumping on all sorts of accounts. :D
Characters: Jonas and Danny were easy to love and they felt very real. They were both very charismatic and had awesome chemistry. Every emotion they had jumped from the page and bit at my heart, I loved them separately and as a couple. Their one on one was hot, intense but had also feeling. Loved them.
Plot: Active, action packed and tense. The romance arc was great, a lot of tension there as well. Yummy quickie read, if you'll pardon my French.
Writing: Third person narrative from both main couple characters. I loved their voices and action scenes were super-full of tension.
Curb Appeal: My first response to this was "This must be showed endless love and encouraged!", and that was without taking into consideration the awesome cover or the hooking blurb. Compulsive buy material, for the win.
I particularly loved Wicked Lies because it had a beautiful dedication and a beautiful Author's Note at the end, basically saying "It gets better!" - I applaud her message as well as her awesome skills. So I'm applauding Avon Impulse on this release, and I generally don't applaud publishers. But this time I am, and I hope you will too.
March 16, 2013
Reviewer: Bex
Rating: 3 out of 5 Fairies
Wicked Lies by Karina Cooper follows Jonas Stone on a mission that will turn his world upside down. Enter the handsome and confident Danny.
Wicked Lies was the first I've read in this series; this left me a little confused re the setting and the back story, but it gave me enough to get a grasp of the basics. That being said, I would urge readers to have read the previous books in this series.
However, I did enjoy this story; it's passionate, at times endearing and has a good level of tension. I considered giving Wicked Lies a 3.5 star rating, but at the end of the novella I was left feeling a little frustrated, and not at all happy with the resolution.
The story started off thick in the action which kept me gripped. It was later when the dynamics of Jonas and Danny's relationship changed that things felt a little flat. The story's plot seemed to pause somewhat and the story became very character focused. Since this is a novella, I don't the characters had enough depth to be able to pull this off completely successfully.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to Bex 'n' Books by the publisher for an HONEST and not necessarily positive opinion.
Rating: 3 out of 5 Fairies
Wicked Lies by Karina Cooper follows Jonas Stone on a mission that will turn his world upside down. Enter the handsome and confident Danny.
Wicked Lies was the first I've read in this series; this left me a little confused re the setting and the back story, but it gave me enough to get a grasp of the basics. That being said, I would urge readers to have read the previous books in this series.
However, I did enjoy this story; it's passionate, at times endearing and has a good level of tension. I considered giving Wicked Lies a 3.5 star rating, but at the end of the novella I was left feeling a little frustrated, and not at all happy with the resolution.
The story started off thick in the action which kept me gripped. It was later when the dynamics of Jonas and Danny's relationship changed that things felt a little flat. The story's plot seemed to pause somewhat and the story became very character focused. Since this is a novella, I don't the characters had enough depth to be able to pull this off completely successfully.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to Bex 'n' Books by the publisher for an HONEST and not necessarily positive opinion.
November 1, 2014
What I Loved:
The characters were great, the romance was HOT, and I immediately wanted to know more about this series. I didn't read any of the previous books, which I really should have for this series, but I still enjoyed it and wasn't too lost. I absolutely loved the beginning of the book, and how Jonas and Danny meet. I also liked that their personalities and back-stories were so different, with Danny being comfortable with his sexuality and Jonas not, it made for some interesting conflict.
What I Didn't:
The only problem that I had with this story is just that it was too rushed, especially towards the end. It's my major complaint with most novellas, and this one would have been so much better to me if it had been longer. I guess it's not always a bad thing to want more of a story, but I felt like there should have been more depth and detail in the last parts of the book. Give me More :)
Overall:
It was a good read, although shorter than I would have liked.
Review originally posted on Book Liaison
***Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review***
The characters were great, the romance was HOT, and I immediately wanted to know more about this series. I didn't read any of the previous books, which I really should have for this series, but I still enjoyed it and wasn't too lost. I absolutely loved the beginning of the book, and how Jonas and Danny meet. I also liked that their personalities and back-stories were so different, with Danny being comfortable with his sexuality and Jonas not, it made for some interesting conflict.
What I Didn't:
The only problem that I had with this story is just that it was too rushed, especially towards the end. It's my major complaint with most novellas, and this one would have been so much better to me if it had been longer. I guess it's not always a bad thing to want more of a story, but I felt like there should have been more depth and detail in the last parts of the book. Give me More :)
Overall:
It was a good read, although shorter than I would have liked.
Review originally posted on Book Liaison
***Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review***
March 16, 2013
The vivid writing style of this author created prevailing imagery. The descriptions of the scenery, circumstances, and temperament were consistent throughout.
I very excited to hear that Jonas’ story was being released; Danny is the perfect complement to his character. I was concerned, that with so little known about his character he would be unworthy of Jonas. I never should have doubted the author’s ability to generate infatuation and passion so intense it left no misgivings.
The compact {novella} wasn’t nearly long enough and ended rather abruptly; looking forwarded to One for the Wicked.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge by edelweiss for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
I very excited to hear that Jonas’ story was being released; Danny is the perfect complement to his character. I was concerned, that with so little known about his character he would be unworthy of Jonas. I never should have doubted the author’s ability to generate infatuation and passion so intense it left no misgivings.
The compact {novella} wasn’t nearly long enough and ended rather abruptly; looking forwarded to One for the Wicked.
Bonus – Author is donating her profit to It Gets Better Project
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge by edelweiss for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
March 19, 2013
This was an okay read for me. It is #4.5 in Karina Cooper's Dark Mission series. I do believe that if I had have read the books in sequence, my reading experience would have been different. With that being said, I would recommend that you start with the first book in the series, Blood of the Wicked.
Wicked Lies begins with Jonas attempting to rescue Danny. Jonas part of an extraction team and Danny has been held captive and brutally tortured for several days. Since there was no background given, I am assuming that this story picks right up where the one before it left off. After Danny is rescued, his gratitude sparks a deeper feeling inside of him. He feels like Jonas may be "The One". Jonas takes a little more convincing as he has seen scenarios where feelings of gratitude are mistaken for love. Danny has his mind set on showing Jonas that what he is feeling is more than just a petty crush. I really liked that asspect of the story as I am a sucker for a love story!
Wicked Lies begins with Jonas attempting to rescue Danny. Jonas part of an extraction team and Danny has been held captive and brutally tortured for several days. Since there was no background given, I am assuming that this story picks right up where the one before it left off. After Danny is rescued, his gratitude sparks a deeper feeling inside of him. He feels like Jonas may be "The One". Jonas takes a little more convincing as he has seen scenarios where feelings of gratitude are mistaken for love. Danny has his mind set on showing Jonas that what he is feeling is more than just a petty crush. I really liked that asspect of the story as I am a sucker for a love story!
March 20, 2013
First off, for anyone interested in buying this romance, just know your money will be going to the IT GETS BETTER PROJECT, which is an organization that I FULLY support as an anti-bullying advocate...or my own personal advocate!! So, please spend the money knowing that it's going to a GREAT cause!
Now, coming from someone who reads little paranormal romance, or M/M romances for that matter, I truly enjoyed this novella from Karina Cooper's Dark Mission Series. Jonas and Danny steal your heart with every look and every touch...I just LOVED them! Danny's determination was my undoing. If Jonas was going to make him prove his feelings, well, he was about to go head to head and he wasn't planning on losing.
Yes, it is VERY short, but holds a big punch and I recommend it to anyone and everyone looking for a lil bit of TRUE LOVE!!!
Now, coming from someone who reads little paranormal romance, or M/M romances for that matter, I truly enjoyed this novella from Karina Cooper's Dark Mission Series. Jonas and Danny steal your heart with every look and every touch...I just LOVED them! Danny's determination was my undoing. If Jonas was going to make him prove his feelings, well, he was about to go head to head and he wasn't planning on losing.
Yes, it is VERY short, but holds a big punch and I recommend it to anyone and everyone looking for a lil bit of TRUE LOVE!!!
March 9, 2013
I'm so thrilled you got around to writing Jonas story. With his tragic pass he deserves a chance at happiness. And what a fantastic character Danny is to pair him up with. He is exactly what Jonas needs to push him past his thoughts on what the church finds appropriate and what his heart tells him is rright. A very positive lesson for others to carry forward in life. I'm pleased to know where the proceeds are going for this book. A very noble cause! I'm eagerly waitting for the last book in this series release. I will be sad to say good-bye because these characters and their stories have given me hours of pleasure.
May 11, 2013
Thank you to Karina for writing this book. Thank you for supporting not only It Gets Better, but every LGBTQ* person.
I loved the story of Jonas and Danny. Short, but effective. Touching and full of love. Everyone deserves their one.
I loved the story of Jonas and Danny. Short, but effective. Touching and full of love. Everyone deserves their one.
January 16, 2016
This novella blew me away. I have never read a m/m romance handled with such beauty and honesty. I am going to have to track down all of the Dark Mission books now. Karnina Cooper writes so well, I was on the edge of my seat at the beginning of the story. Wow.
January 6, 2013
Full review to come. Until then: Danny is delicious and the right person to push Jonas's buttons. Sweet HEA.
March 16, 2013
review coming soon!
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