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Mixed Blessing Mystery #1
Mixed Blessing
Librarian note: This is an alternate cover version for this book.
His whole body jerked against mine, his arms tightened and a low growl mixed with a decidedly sexy moan came from the back of his throat. I could tell he was having an instant response to my biting him, I could feel exactly where his mind had taken the moment to. I gasped at his reaction, thinking this was having way more of an effect on him than me. And then the taste of his blood hit my tongue.
Working as a bartender at the most popular club in town, dating a handsome, sexy and ever so slightly mysterious Englishman, Georgia thought her life was finally going somewhere. Then one night a rogue vampire caught her unaware, introducing her to a night time life she never knew existed.
Trusting no one and finding it hard to forgive the one man who could have warned her, but didn't, Georgia fights to retain her humanity. All the while fighting her attraction for the one who let her down. But with some hard and fast rules, an iron will and determination, plus abilities that make her a commodity to any who traverse the night time world, Georgia must find a way to remain true to herself and not give in to the seduction of the Dark.
But the Dark is so appealing and her vampire-within so strong. Can Georgia resist temptation, in all its glorious guises and still be true to her Light-filled side? As she'd say, this really sucks!
His whole body jerked against mine, his arms tightened and a low growl mixed with a decidedly sexy moan came from the back of his throat. I could tell he was having an instant response to my biting him, I could feel exactly where his mind had taken the moment to. I gasped at his reaction, thinking this was having way more of an effect on him than me. And then the taste of his blood hit my tongue.
Working as a bartender at the most popular club in town, dating a handsome, sexy and ever so slightly mysterious Englishman, Georgia thought her life was finally going somewhere. Then one night a rogue vampire caught her unaware, introducing her to a night time life she never knew existed.
Trusting no one and finding it hard to forgive the one man who could have warned her, but didn't, Georgia fights to retain her humanity. All the while fighting her attraction for the one who let her down. But with some hard and fast rules, an iron will and determination, plus abilities that make her a commodity to any who traverse the night time world, Georgia must find a way to remain true to herself and not give in to the seduction of the Dark.
But the Dark is so appealing and her vampire-within so strong. Can Georgia resist temptation, in all its glorious guises and still be true to her Light-filled side? As she'd say, this really sucks!
452 pages, ebook
First published January 12, 2013
86 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Claire
137 books735 followersNicola Claire lives in beautiful Taupo, New Zealand with her husband, two teenage boys and a Miniature Schnauzer named Rudy.
A bit of a romance junkie, she can be known to devour as many as half a dozen books a week if she drinks too much coffee. But her real passion is writing sexy, romantic suspense stories with strong female leads and alpha male protagonists who know how to love them.
So far, she’s written well over 70 books. She might have caught the writing bug; here’s hoping there’s no cure!
A bit of a romance junkie, she can be known to devour as many as half a dozen books a week if she drinks too much coffee. But her real passion is writing sexy, romantic suspense stories with strong female leads and alpha male protagonists who know how to love them.
So far, she’s written well over 70 books. She might have caught the writing bug; here’s hoping there’s no cure!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
January 10, 2013
Ive been waiting for this ARC and was thrilled when I saw an email from Nicola sitting in my inbox. Though thrilled at the idea of starting something new from Nicola, my initial emotions were also filled with skepticism and doubt. It had nothing to do with the author or this book but based on my own previous reading experiences when it comes to taking a previous 'world' and changing the main character. I always found it really hard to relate to a new main character without secretly pining for the original character and plot.
The second thing that crossed my mind as I first opened this book was, 'wow, this is kind of long'. I was worried that the story would have been dragged out in some meaningless fashion. It wasnt. I thought it would also take me a bit longer to finish this book as well. It didn't.
I finished this book in less than 36 hours which was an absolute surprise to me. I was immediately drawn to Georgia even before I finished the first chapter. Lucinda who? I didn't expect to like her but she is hard not to.
She is absolutely 'kick ass' even for being new to the supernatural world. She does everything she can to stay true to her rules and beliefs during even the hardest of times.
A plus to entering this world from Georgia's point of view is the ability to get a closer look at some other favorite characters from the previous books and some new ones. I loved seeing more of Samson and even more that I didn't know existed from Jett.
Like every character though,there is something that just makes you want to slap them at some point and Georgia is no exception for me. To hear her reasoning when it comes to Samson and Lucinda annoys me to no end. I think she needs some sense knocked into her about that issue.
Anywho, the storyline and writing is outstanding. Where I feared the book could have been too long, it was just right. Filled with wonderful description in all areas and it constantly left me wondering what's next, which is why I barely put it down. A murder mystery wrapped up in the supernatural world where sexual tension also resides around any possible corner is just a recipe for a fantastic read. Nicola Claire has quickly become one of my favorite writers and there seriously is no wonder why.
The second thing that crossed my mind as I first opened this book was, 'wow, this is kind of long'. I was worried that the story would have been dragged out in some meaningless fashion. It wasnt. I thought it would also take me a bit longer to finish this book as well. It didn't.
I finished this book in less than 36 hours which was an absolute surprise to me. I was immediately drawn to Georgia even before I finished the first chapter. Lucinda who? I didn't expect to like her but she is hard not to.
She is absolutely 'kick ass' even for being new to the supernatural world. She does everything she can to stay true to her rules and beliefs during even the hardest of times.
A plus to entering this world from Georgia's point of view is the ability to get a closer look at some other favorite characters from the previous books and some new ones. I loved seeing more of Samson and even more that I didn't know existed from Jett.
Like every character though,there is something that just makes you want to slap them at some point and Georgia is no exception for me. To hear her reasoning when it comes to Samson and Lucinda annoys me to no end. I think she needs some sense knocked into her about that issue.
Anywho, the storyline and writing is outstanding. Where I feared the book could have been too long, it was just right. Filled with wonderful description in all areas and it constantly left me wondering what's next, which is why I barely put it down. A murder mystery wrapped up in the supernatural world where sexual tension also resides around any possible corner is just a recipe for a fantastic read. Nicola Claire has quickly become one of my favorite writers and there seriously is no wonder why.
December 11, 2019
Next book 2017, wow that's a long time from 2013... how insulting.
This is certainly the best novel I've picked up from this author so far. I really got into this one. I liked the characters, and didn't find the angst overwhelming. Seems to be going in a good direction for now and I'm definitely waiting for the next book.
This is certainly the best novel I've picked up from this author so far. I really got into this one. I liked the characters, and didn't find the angst overwhelming. Seems to be going in a good direction for now and I'm definitely waiting for the next book.
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April 6, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/13/2022)! 🎁
April 5, 2017
I enjoy paranormal/vampire books but for some reason, this one took some time for me to really get into. This is the first time reading anything by this author and I am not quite sure if I will continue. The main characters seemed cute to me, not scary (not sure how author wanted them to come across as). But I thought the author did a fantastic job on descriptions.
October 31, 2014
So far this series is every bit as good as the Kindred series. Can't wait to get book 2!
July 26, 2013
Good start to what I hope will be a good series.
December 8, 2018
Rating: 3.5 out of 5.
June 15, 2013
Mixed Blessings
by Nicola Claire
While horror is my first love when it comes to the different genres, I must confess to having developed a recent taste for werewolves/human romance novels. It's my guilty pleasure what can I say? I have now discovered I also quite like vampire/mystery novels as well! At least the ones written by this author. The story revolves around a newly turned vampire named Georgia, or as her friends call her Gigi, and part of her problems in this novel are accepting her new fate. But some of her problems were also uniquely human. Things I could relate to as well. Things I could understand. Maybe that's what made Georgia so darned likable.
I finished this book in less than a day, once I started the story it just wouldn't let me go until I had no more more words to read. This was a bittersweet moment I can tell you because while I wanted to know the conclusions. I also wanted to remain in Auckland and see what could possibly happen next. I'll wait anxiously until book 2 comes out.
The story and the characters are so well written I felt I was fly on the wall, so into the story that I might have been a part of the story myself. Its those rare books that make you regret that you've come to the conclusion. This was without a doubt one of those books! Initially, with so many characters I thought I would get lost in the story, just as I worried about figuring out the vampire lingo. But I needn't have worried as the author explained throughout the story....reminders if you will, of what the words/phrases meant. Not just a love story, not just a mystery, not just fantasy. This book was all of that and more. This book was thoroughly enjoyable! Without a doubt, this will be one of the books I'll be rereading over and over again!
I was offered the opportunity to read this book for free in return for an honest review.
by Nicola Claire
While horror is my first love when it comes to the different genres, I must confess to having developed a recent taste for werewolves/human romance novels. It's my guilty pleasure what can I say? I have now discovered I also quite like vampire/mystery novels as well! At least the ones written by this author. The story revolves around a newly turned vampire named Georgia, or as her friends call her Gigi, and part of her problems in this novel are accepting her new fate. But some of her problems were also uniquely human. Things I could relate to as well. Things I could understand. Maybe that's what made Georgia so darned likable.
I finished this book in less than a day, once I started the story it just wouldn't let me go until I had no more more words to read. This was a bittersweet moment I can tell you because while I wanted to know the conclusions. I also wanted to remain in Auckland and see what could possibly happen next. I'll wait anxiously until book 2 comes out.
The story and the characters are so well written I felt I was fly on the wall, so into the story that I might have been a part of the story myself. Its those rare books that make you regret that you've come to the conclusion. This was without a doubt one of those books! Initially, with so many characters I thought I would get lost in the story, just as I worried about figuring out the vampire lingo. But I needn't have worried as the author explained throughout the story....reminders if you will, of what the words/phrases meant. Not just a love story, not just a mystery, not just fantasy. This book was all of that and more. This book was thoroughly enjoyable! Without a doubt, this will be one of the books I'll be rereading over and over again!
I was offered the opportunity to read this book for free in return for an honest review.
January 22, 2013
After reading my copy straight from Nicola Claire to review, I am pleased to say that it was another well written and great to read story.
It had yet another original and exciting story line, starring two of the characters I wanted to know more about from the orignal series of Kindred. Samson, Lucinda's super handsome and loyal vampire and Georgia, the girl he'd fallen head over heels for who unfortunately or fortunately was murdered then turned into a vampire but that's not all she is thanks to Lucinda's goddess pitching in to raise her from the dead. I'm not sure I love her as much as Lucinda yet. She is even more stubborn to do things on her own and figure out for herself who she is and what she can do! Who knows what her capabilities could be, will she be stronger than Lucinda one day?
My favourite part was when Georgia reveals herself horrendously and completely out of control to a 'norm' that she used to know when she was growing up and is now lead detective in an important case. He can't be glazed so he will remember! I couldn't put my book down...
What I enjoy the most from Nicola's books is that the girls seem to have the edge over the guys most of the time! Making the guys want them even more no matter if they're the same mythical species or not! There's always a line up and while I think I know who she'll eventually choose I can't be sure. I can't wait to read the follow on story as there were a lot of questions left unanswered...
Keep up the fantastic work Nicola Claire. I'm your biggest fan :o)
It had yet another original and exciting story line, starring two of the characters I wanted to know more about from the orignal series of Kindred. Samson, Lucinda's super handsome and loyal vampire and Georgia, the girl he'd fallen head over heels for who unfortunately or fortunately was murdered then turned into a vampire but that's not all she is thanks to Lucinda's goddess pitching in to raise her from the dead. I'm not sure I love her as much as Lucinda yet. She is even more stubborn to do things on her own and figure out for herself who she is and what she can do! Who knows what her capabilities could be, will she be stronger than Lucinda one day?
My favourite part was when Georgia reveals herself horrendously and completely out of control to a 'norm' that she used to know when she was growing up and is now lead detective in an important case. He can't be glazed so he will remember! I couldn't put my book down...
What I enjoy the most from Nicola's books is that the girls seem to have the edge over the guys most of the time! Making the guys want them even more no matter if they're the same mythical species or not! There's always a line up and while I think I know who she'll eventually choose I can't be sure. I can't wait to read the follow on story as there were a lot of questions left unanswered...
Keep up the fantastic work Nicola Claire. I'm your biggest fan :o)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2013
4.5 stars
I received this ARC copy in return for an honest and fair review.
I love the Kindred books.
Nicola Claire builds a fantastic, all encompassing world that completely sucks you in, and is utterly believable.
It's fast paced and exciting, and you just can't put the books down.
Did I feel the same compulsion with Mixed Blessing? No, not entirely, but I think that's part of the success of the story-I shared the heroine's journey with her. So whilst at times Gigi didn't like herself, I also found myself yo-yoing between liking and disliking her, and to be honest I still haven't decided. The story however, hit all of the spots you'd expect from Nicola Claire, and was completely engaging. One of the tests of a good book for me, is if I want to find out what happens next, and that is a definite yes.
Mixed Blessing sits between Shadow's Light and Entwined with the Dark in the Kindred World, and I like how you get to see characters from Kindred in a different light in this book, and it also shines a light on some of the occurrences in those books (you don't however, have to have read them to read this book). Definitely not a fan of Jetts. Team Samson all the way! I hope Gigi's next book as more of the steamy scenes I'm use to from Nicola's books.
Read this book, and if you've not read the Kindred series, READ THEM NOW, they are awesome.
I received this ARC copy in return for an honest and fair review.
I love the Kindred books.
Nicola Claire builds a fantastic, all encompassing world that completely sucks you in, and is utterly believable.
It's fast paced and exciting, and you just can't put the books down.
Did I feel the same compulsion with Mixed Blessing? No, not entirely, but I think that's part of the success of the story-I shared the heroine's journey with her. So whilst at times Gigi didn't like herself, I also found myself yo-yoing between liking and disliking her, and to be honest I still haven't decided. The story however, hit all of the spots you'd expect from Nicola Claire, and was completely engaging. One of the tests of a good book for me, is if I want to find out what happens next, and that is a definite yes.
Mixed Blessing sits between Shadow's Light and Entwined with the Dark in the Kindred World, and I like how you get to see characters from Kindred in a different light in this book, and it also shines a light on some of the occurrences in those books (you don't however, have to have read them to read this book). Definitely not a fan of Jetts. Team Samson all the way! I hope Gigi's next book as more of the steamy scenes I'm use to from Nicola's books.
Read this book, and if you've not read the Kindred series, READ THEM NOW, they are awesome.
June 13, 2013
I received this ARC free for an honest review and am happy to provide one.
I adore reading paranormal books but don't read many vampire books these days due to their sameness!!
With this book I was pleasantly surprised with the plot and the heroine, yes she can seem a bit childish and petty but after reading Kelley Armstrong's Bitten I can also understand her anger of being made something against her will. Only 2 months is not a long time to come to terms with this but she is managing her behaviours as best she can.
Georgia is a complex character and I love her by play with all oter characters (of course I'm plugging for Samson but then who wouldn't!!)
This is a very long book but very enjoyable you really will not want to put it down once it's got you in it's grip!
I understand why the terminology is at the start as it explains how Georgia navigates through this new world she is walking through. I've had these on Kresley Cole and J.R Ward BDB books so I knew it was there to help me.
Please take this book and give it a read you won't be disappointed :-) I'm not overly interested in Lucinda's books but I do want to know what will happen to Georgia next I'm well and truly hooked thank you for giving me this opportunity to read the book Nicola I am truly "blessed"
I adore reading paranormal books but don't read many vampire books these days due to their sameness!!
With this book I was pleasantly surprised with the plot and the heroine, yes she can seem a bit childish and petty but after reading Kelley Armstrong's Bitten I can also understand her anger of being made something against her will. Only 2 months is not a long time to come to terms with this but she is managing her behaviours as best she can.
Georgia is a complex character and I love her by play with all oter characters (of course I'm plugging for Samson but then who wouldn't!!)
This is a very long book but very enjoyable you really will not want to put it down once it's got you in it's grip!
I understand why the terminology is at the start as it explains how Georgia navigates through this new world she is walking through. I've had these on Kresley Cole and J.R Ward BDB books so I knew it was there to help me.
Please take this book and give it a read you won't be disappointed :-) I'm not overly interested in Lucinda's books but I do want to know what will happen to Georgia next I'm well and truly hooked thank you for giving me this opportunity to read the book Nicola I am truly "blessed"
June 14, 2013
When I started this book I thought oh boy glossary of vamp terms and definitions, I'm not sure about this... Very, very wrong....this is why you don't assume. I really like going to this genre of book to let my imagination run and this book really nailed on the head. The author did a great job with this story...it was sexy, hot, action packed, a mystery intertwined, supernatural, the mix was placed in the story with ease. I loved the main character, Georgia. I felt her emotions all of them, which really the author did a great job of building the story around her. Newly "turned",you were rooting for her with her battle with her light and dark that she must continue on with in her existence. How the story played out into her attractions, her friends, as well as, the mystery that formed and she became apart of I hope in upcoming books that we see more of that and Georgia's talents. There was just the right balance of steam and action placed well in the story. It kept me turning the pages to see what happened next... It was just enough and linked just right. I am very excited to read other books by this author...if you like this genre this book has it all you won't be sorry...
*i have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
*i have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
November 18, 2018
Mixed Blessing is a spin-off of the Kindred series, staring Georgia. She's a newly turned vampire, but she is special. She isn't just a vampire. Due to Lucinda saving her life she is something a little different. And now, she's having to learn to fight her Dark side, and figure out how to be a vampire on her own due to pushing others away.
But when she gets the chance to use her gifts for good, she decides to help out anyway she can. But this opens up her secrets to people who shouldn't know, and now she is in danger.
This book was okay. I liked it, but it wasn't as great as I was thinking it would be. I'm also a little annoyed with the love triangle thing going on. Not only that, but the cliffhanger ending has freaking left me hungry for me.
I did however like the plot line over all. And I really do like Gigi, even though she can be a major jerk off at times. I also loved her and Samson together! I hope that pans out as well. Now, I must wait for the next one to be out!
But when she gets the chance to use her gifts for good, she decides to help out anyway she can. But this opens up her secrets to people who shouldn't know, and now she is in danger.
This book was okay. I liked it, but it wasn't as great as I was thinking it would be. I'm also a little annoyed with the love triangle thing going on. Not only that, but the cliffhanger ending has freaking left me hungry for me.
I did however like the plot line over all. And I really do like Gigi, even though she can be a major jerk off at times. I also loved her and Samson together! I hope that pans out as well. Now, I must wait for the next one to be out!
June 24, 2013
Wow.....not usually my kind of book, Vampires, or fantasy, but my oh my....this was good!!!
Of course, already having read some of Nicola's other work, and loving that, I wanted to try this new series.... and I'm glad I did.
It is so much more than 'just' another vampire story.....it is a transitional story and quite a reluctant one. Also a story of having to start new connections, with everything and everyone... Even those you've known for a long time........ How trust lost is more difficult to rebuild than new trust is gained. I can keep going with this, but I won't, it is sufficient to say that the book is exciting and superbly written.....so much so, it impressed a non-lover of the genre enough to hand out five stars!!
Of course, already having read some of Nicola's other work, and loving that, I wanted to try this new series.... and I'm glad I did.
It is so much more than 'just' another vampire story.....it is a transitional story and quite a reluctant one. Also a story of having to start new connections, with everything and everyone... Even those you've known for a long time........ How trust lost is more difficult to rebuild than new trust is gained. I can keep going with this, but I won't, it is sufficient to say that the book is exciting and superbly written.....so much so, it impressed a non-lover of the genre enough to hand out five stars!!
mixed-blessing-mystery-series
December 29, 2017Mixed Blessing is part of the Kindred World, but can be read as a stand-alone novel if desired. Should you wish to read it in chronological order, read Mixed Blessing between Shadow's Light and Entwined with the Dark.
For more information about the Kindred World, please visit my website: http://nicolaclairebooks.blogspot.com/
For more information about the Kindred World, please visit my website: http://nicolaclairebooks.blogspot.com/
July 6, 2016
UGH the angst is too much. It doesn't help i disliked the h in the kindred series & her behavior & attitude hasn't improved in this (her own) series. I find her self sabotaging, short sighted, immature, annoying, & ungrateful. This one is not for me. #PASS
DNF 46%
DNF 46%
July 14, 2018
I'm a die hard romantic suspense fan, but I'm trying to branch out so I decided to give this one a try. I had previously tried Ms. Claire's Kindred series, but didn't make all the way through. Had I read the entire series, I may have appreciated Georgia's story a little more. I will definitely give the author points for creativity. The concept, world, plot, etc. all seemed quite original. I'm intrigued by Georgia and want to learn more about her. I'm not a love triangle fan, so I was a little disappointed to see the series is headed in that direction. It also just felt like there were a lot of characters to keep straight, but again that may be because I haven't read the whole Kindred series. I do plan to read book 2 in the series, so we'll see where things go!
April 17, 2018
A great urban fantasy/vampire story
If the paranormal is your genre then Mixed Blessing by Nicola Claire is a must read. This book is full of action and a mystery that is written very smoothly and the editing wasn't bad either. The author has created a strange world set in modern day Auckland, New Zealand where vampires, faries and other strange creatures live alongside normal people. Enjoy this book and immerse yourself in a strange tale when you have plenty of time to finish.
If the paranormal is your genre then Mixed Blessing by Nicola Claire is a must read. This book is full of action and a mystery that is written very smoothly and the editing wasn't bad either. The author has created a strange world set in modern day Auckland, New Zealand where vampires, faries and other strange creatures live alongside normal people. Enjoy this book and immerse yourself in a strange tale when you have plenty of time to finish.
August 26, 2019
Well I wasn't sure about this given that I loved Kindred, I was however pleasantly surprised. The world that we know as Auckland NZ according to the Kindred brethren was still alive and kicking. The characters were just as 3 dimensional as the forerunner series and it was truly a joy to see some of our favourite characters from a different perspective.
As I have come to expect from this author the book flowed well and although long drew me in and time passed amazingly quickly. I would give this book 4.5 stars and if you enjoyed Kindred I would definitely recommend this series.
As I have come to expect from this author the book flowed well and although long drew me in and time passed amazingly quickly. I would give this book 4.5 stars and if you enjoyed Kindred I would definitely recommend this series.
January 25, 2018
Georgia's perspective since she has been changed. I am upset because she is behaving selfish that Samson should have told her what he was and blah blah blah.
She doesn't understand that she must not ignore the rules as they exist for a reason.
Samson is the love of her life. What would she want to choose anyone else for. Yes he asked Lucinda to change her and he lied to her by submission. But she was alive and unique yet he still loved her. What else does she want?
She doesn't understand that she must not ignore the rules as they exist for a reason.
Samson is the love of her life. What would she want to choose anyone else for. Yes he asked Lucinda to change her and he lied to her by submission. But she was alive and unique yet he still loved her. What else does she want?
May 22, 2018
Yes Gigi is fierce!
I love a woman who doesn’t forget the wrongs perpetrated against her and those she loves. Georgia can’t forget that if Samson had told her the truth she would have been better able to take care of herself and wouldn’t be a Nothus. She is now also a loner not willing to join a line and is constantly on guard. While she has a light and dark side she struggles with who she is and what eternal life will bring. Would love to see the next in the series.
I love a woman who doesn’t forget the wrongs perpetrated against her and those she loves. Georgia can’t forget that if Samson had told her the truth she would have been better able to take care of herself and wouldn’t be a Nothus. She is now also a loner not willing to join a line and is constantly on guard. While she has a light and dark side she struggles with who she is and what eternal life will bring. Would love to see the next in the series.
September 6, 2019
Enjoyed
I thoroughly enjoyed Mixed Blessings. It was a little longer than I had thought it would be, but for the most part, the action kept you guessing and pretty much hating to put it down to get anything else done😎 on my way to reading the second book now, I have to see where this goes! I love a series that drags you with it, even if your loved ones start feeling neglected 🤣🤣
I thoroughly enjoyed Mixed Blessings. It was a little longer than I had thought it would be, but for the most part, the action kept you guessing and pretty much hating to put it down to get anything else done😎 on my way to reading the second book now, I have to see where this goes! I love a series that drags you with it, even if your loved ones start feeling neglected 🤣🤣
May 5, 2018
Got caught in the characters right away and great pace so I enjoyed it all the way through and will be wanting to see how all the relationships unfold in the series... as GiGi walks this new fine line between dark and light thanks Nicola
January 29, 2020
Ok read kind of dull
I enjoyed the strong female lead but was confused why her character never grew. She started out with a internal conflict two male interest and ends alone still unresolved?
I enjoyed the strong female lead but was confused why her character never grew. She started out with a internal conflict two male interest and ends alone still unresolved?
April 11, 2018
Captivating
The story is captivating, I flew threw the book wanting to know what happens next. I can’t wait to read the next one to see what happens next in the world of Gigi!
The story is captivating, I flew threw the book wanting to know what happens next. I can’t wait to read the next one to see what happens next in the world of Gigi!
Want to read
October 16, 2022purchased this item on Oct. 14, 2022. Amazon
January 13, 2023
Nicola has created a beautiful world with well rounded characters that is easy to immerse yourself in. I finished Mixed Blessing in two days as I just couldn't put it down. I'm excited to move on to the next in the series!
June 8, 2013
This ARC was provided free for an honest review.
The book begins with a list of terms and then a list of scents and their emotional equivalent. This beginning did not bode well for me, as often these lists lead to stories so involved with the set up and so complicated that the actual story is often neglected. Not so here. The terms are defined at the beginning, but also through context and plot defined in the text as well.
The book combines a bit of paranormal romance and a lot of mystery. If you are reading this book solely for the romance, you will likely be frustrated. If you are hoping for a bit of erotica (read: sex), you will also be frustrated. That said, the characters are three dimensional and the story arc is intriguing. I figured out part of the mystery before the protagonist, but certainly couldn't predict all the directions and characters that would appear.
The rest of this review will focus on the protagonist, so there may be a bit of spoiler here, but I will not give away the mystery. Gigi is a Nothus--part vampire part vampire hunter. She is newly turned and throughout the book, she is struggling with her new reality and her dual nature. The mystery gives here plenty of time to read her political landscape, assess her own powers, and her emotional state. She has two men vying for her attention--the master of the city, Jett, and her flame from her human days, Samson. Jett is a bit reminiscent of Jean-Claude (Anita Blake), but with less charm and more darkness. Samson is a vamp that has conquered his darkness and cares for Gigi, but much about his make-up remains unclear, likely to be developed in later books.
Gigi is frustrating. At the beginning she is a loner--angry at her circumstances and she can't accept her status, at least her vamp half. Several times in the book, she rues her go it alone attitude and recognizes that she has cut off her nose to spite her face. Yet, each time she has this epiphany, she purposely suppresses it. She remains angry at her former lover for keeping the dark world from her, yet she now knows the rules and while she might break them, she is aware of the devastating consequences. She recognizes that telling the "Norms" she has, her best friend etc, has placed them in extreme danger. and she knows that even if she had known about vamps, she could not have defended herself against the attack. And for the most part, she hides herself from those around her, even vamps, so she is a hypocrite of the first degree.
She avers that Samson loves the woman she was, not the Nothus she is. But, she has also seen more to Samson and still loves him. And she does not give him a chance to love her even though the author has clearly set him up to be her mate (she can feed from him and gain sustenance). I understand creating some romantic tension, but this goes beyond that and Gigi ends up sticking to her guns beyond stubbornness to stupidity. He shows again and again that he understands and knows her, showing she hasn't changed that much. but she just can't give him a second chance. By the end, it felt like one of those sitcoms that stretch the male/female will they, wont they so far that everyone stops caring.
Her overall danger is real--Nothus are not allowed to live according to the ruling Vamp Council. And at the end, despite all she has learned and felt, she is still planning on picking up stakes and hiding from everything. This cowardice does not mesh well with the rest of her rather strong character. If could, I would have slapped her several times throughout the book. Again, at the beginning of the book this type of angst is expected. But I also expect her to grow throughout. At the end, she accepts herself but that does change her behavior.
The other character that was problematic was the best friend. She comes in at the beginning and gets Gigi involved in the mess and then we don't see her again until the end, yet she knows enough to try and push Gigi towards one guy or the other.
Despite what are short comings in my view, the book was very good. Well written with few grammatical or typographical errors. I was definitely thinking of the book and where the plot was going when I was not reading (there is a lot of time when swimming laps) and was anxious to get back to it. Gigi ends up in a position to work between the Norms and the supernaturals-- again a bit like Anita Blake. The story line ends and it's satisfying and there is definitely enough to continue on into more books. As I had not read anyone by this author, I will likely go and check out her other series based upon my experience with this ARC. A solid four stars--Nicola may make my list of must read authors along with Jeanine Frost, Singh (angels/hunters series), Chloe Neill, and Patricia Briggs.
The book begins with a list of terms and then a list of scents and their emotional equivalent. This beginning did not bode well for me, as often these lists lead to stories so involved with the set up and so complicated that the actual story is often neglected. Not so here. The terms are defined at the beginning, but also through context and plot defined in the text as well.
The book combines a bit of paranormal romance and a lot of mystery. If you are reading this book solely for the romance, you will likely be frustrated. If you are hoping for a bit of erotica (read: sex), you will also be frustrated. That said, the characters are three dimensional and the story arc is intriguing. I figured out part of the mystery before the protagonist, but certainly couldn't predict all the directions and characters that would appear.
The rest of this review will focus on the protagonist, so there may be a bit of spoiler here, but I will not give away the mystery. Gigi is a Nothus--part vampire part vampire hunter. She is newly turned and throughout the book, she is struggling with her new reality and her dual nature. The mystery gives here plenty of time to read her political landscape, assess her own powers, and her emotional state. She has two men vying for her attention--the master of the city, Jett, and her flame from her human days, Samson. Jett is a bit reminiscent of Jean-Claude (Anita Blake), but with less charm and more darkness. Samson is a vamp that has conquered his darkness and cares for Gigi, but much about his make-up remains unclear, likely to be developed in later books.
Gigi is frustrating. At the beginning she is a loner--angry at her circumstances and she can't accept her status, at least her vamp half. Several times in the book, she rues her go it alone attitude and recognizes that she has cut off her nose to spite her face. Yet, each time she has this epiphany, she purposely suppresses it. She remains angry at her former lover for keeping the dark world from her, yet she now knows the rules and while she might break them, she is aware of the devastating consequences. She recognizes that telling the "Norms" she has, her best friend etc, has placed them in extreme danger. and she knows that even if she had known about vamps, she could not have defended herself against the attack. And for the most part, she hides herself from those around her, even vamps, so she is a hypocrite of the first degree.
She avers that Samson loves the woman she was, not the Nothus she is. But, she has also seen more to Samson and still loves him. And she does not give him a chance to love her even though the author has clearly set him up to be her mate (she can feed from him and gain sustenance). I understand creating some romantic tension, but this goes beyond that and Gigi ends up sticking to her guns beyond stubbornness to stupidity. He shows again and again that he understands and knows her, showing she hasn't changed that much. but she just can't give him a second chance. By the end, it felt like one of those sitcoms that stretch the male/female will they, wont they so far that everyone stops caring.
Her overall danger is real--Nothus are not allowed to live according to the ruling Vamp Council. And at the end, despite all she has learned and felt, she is still planning on picking up stakes and hiding from everything. This cowardice does not mesh well with the rest of her rather strong character. If could, I would have slapped her several times throughout the book. Again, at the beginning of the book this type of angst is expected. But I also expect her to grow throughout. At the end, she accepts herself but that does change her behavior.
The other character that was problematic was the best friend. She comes in at the beginning and gets Gigi involved in the mess and then we don't see her again until the end, yet she knows enough to try and push Gigi towards one guy or the other.
Despite what are short comings in my view, the book was very good. Well written with few grammatical or typographical errors. I was definitely thinking of the book and where the plot was going when I was not reading (there is a lot of time when swimming laps) and was anxious to get back to it. Gigi ends up in a position to work between the Norms and the supernaturals-- again a bit like Anita Blake. The story line ends and it's satisfying and there is definitely enough to continue on into more books. As I had not read anyone by this author, I will likely go and check out her other series based upon my experience with this ARC. A solid four stars--Nicola may make my list of must read authors along with Jeanine Frost, Singh (angels/hunters series), Chloe Neill, and Patricia Briggs.
June 27, 2013
Gigi is a young vampire adjusting to her new life. Sampson is the man she fell deeply in love with and still loves to this day even though he hid the truth about supernatural beings - Gigi wasn't aware vampires even existed. Gigi considers this to mean that Sampson lied to her so now she will no longer give herself over to her feelings. Jett is the mayor of this supernatural world and puts Gigi in charge of figuring out what is happening with some local murders. Gigi is a partly light and partly dark vampire who has very extraordinary skills, skills that many people would like to use her for. And if the council of vampires found out about her half light/half dark status it would be an immediate execution. Gigi is an independent vampire and a strong girl. Otherwise the story just went on and on with not a lot of excitement.
December 22, 2013
Hmmm I'm not going to say I didn't like it because I did but it read way too much like night huntress for my tastes.
Sexy blond British male vamp - check
Unusual female lead with strange abilities - check
Mystery to solve - check
It felt like there was a lot going on but nothing really ever happening
And although I like this author I constantly feel let down by her obvious imitation of other authors.
Plus I've never liked americanisms in stories not set in America. Being a kiwi myself I've never heard any refer to an arse as an 'ass' it bothered me a great deal across the board on all the stories.
And I couldn't get over the way Georgia keeps blaming Samson for her being turned because he kept that part of his life from her, she is a bit of a bitch for throwing that back at him all the time
Sexy blond British male vamp - check
Unusual female lead with strange abilities - check
Mystery to solve - check
It felt like there was a lot going on but nothing really ever happening
And although I like this author I constantly feel let down by her obvious imitation of other authors.
Plus I've never liked americanisms in stories not set in America. Being a kiwi myself I've never heard any refer to an arse as an 'ass' it bothered me a great deal across the board on all the stories.
And I couldn't get over the way Georgia keeps blaming Samson for her being turned because he kept that part of his life from her, she is a bit of a bitch for throwing that back at him all the time
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