อัศวินแวมไพร์ / In the Heat of the Bite

Gentlemen Vampyres #2

by Lydia Dare, ลิเดีย แดร์, กัญชลิกา (Translator)

(นิยายชุด แวมไพร์ยอดรัก, #2)

ความเป็นอัศวินผู้สูงเกียรตินั้น เป็นคุณสมบัติที่ห่างไกลจากแวมไพร์...

แมทธิว ฮัลเคตต์ เอิร์ลแห่งบลัดสเวลล์ เป็นหนึ่งในผู้ชายน้อยคน ในสังคมระดับสูงที่อ้างได้เต็มปากว่าเป็นอัศวินสวมเกราะมันวับ เพราะเขาเป็นอัศวินจริงก่อนที่จะถูกเปลี่ยนให้เป็นแวมไพร์ เมื่อเขาเห็นเด็กสาวคนหนึ่งกำลังเผชิญความลำบากกลางพายุใหญ่ในไฮด์พาร์ก สัญชาตญาณอัศวินสั่งให้เขารีบช่วยหล่อน...


แต่ผู้หญิงไม่ได้ต้องการความช่วยเหลือไปเสียทุกคน...

เรียนนัน ซินแคลร์ แม่มดผู้ควบคุมสภาพอากาศ ไม่ได้ติดอยู่กลางพายุ หล่อนเป็นผู้สร้างพายุขึ้นมาเอง หญิงสาวตกใจที่เอิร์ลหนุ่มท่าทางองอาจคนหนึ่งมาพบหล่อนขณะที่หล่อนกำลังสร้างปัญหา แต่หล่อนไม่ต้องการผู้ชาย--ไม่เคยต้องการ และแน่นอนว่าจะไม่ต้องการ...


แต่เมื่อเรียนนันเผชิญหน้ากับแมทธิวอีกครั้ง พลังอำนาจของหล่อนเริ่มทำงานอย่างไร้การควบคุมและความสามารถเหนือธรรมชาติของเขาทำงานผิดพลาด

เมื่อทั้งสองพบกัน สังคมระดับสูงต้องตกอยู่ในความวุ่นวาย เพราะไม่เคยมีเรื่องเสื่อมเสียรุนแรงขนาดนี้มาก่อน...

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Historical Romance, Vampires, Historical, Regency

336 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

Lydia Dare is the pseudonym for the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. Both are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and have sat on the organization's Board of Directors. Their writing process involves passing a manuscript back and forth, each one writing 1500 words after editing the other's previous installment. Jodie specializes in writing the history and Tammy in writing the paranormal. Both live near Raleigh, NC.

Reviews

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rhiannon Sinclair has come from Scotland to see her sister in London. Her aunt stole her away and dragged her to London for a season, and so Rhi wanting to make sure her sister is alright, follows. When she comes to her aunt's home, her aunt practically kicks her out, claiming that because of her abilities, it makes her less worthy. Furious Rhiannon goes out to the park in London, and releases her anger and builds a rainstorm and meets Matthew, the Earl of Blodswell, but more than that he is a 600 year old vampire. Matthew, was once a Knight of the realm, but was turned into a vampire, and has lived that way ever since. When he sees a damsel in distress, he goes in to save her, but discovers she doesn't need much saving, which only leaves him even more spellbound. Rhiannon, is part of a five sister coven, and her powers involve controlling the weather. but when Matthew comes strolling into her life, her powers go haywire. Even though Matthew is a vampire, Rhi finds herself yearning for his touch and kiss. But soon a scandal will put Matthew and Rhiannon in a tempest of a storm.

In The Heat of the Bite is the second in the Vampire Trilogy which is connected slightly to the Westfield Wolves series. This series is about three vampire gentleman, who are good and kind and only want to love. In The Heat Of The Bite is the second in the trilogy, and it is Matthew and Rhiannon's story. This couple was so much fun to read. The story was refreshing and there was quite a bit I enjoyed about it. I didn't have a hard time getting into the story, from the start your heart goes out to Rhiannon. Because of her gifts, her family treats her less important, believing she will never get a good catch, or have a family. Being Scottish, the last thing she wants to do is come to London, and deal with Sassenach's. However she doesn't have a choice, because her sister is more important. When she arrives to London, her aunt is cruel to Rhi, and pushes her out the door without letting her see her sister. But Rhiannon is a guest and staying with her fellow coven sister Caitlin and her husband Dash (whose story I had yet to read, and really anxious to now after seeing their involvement with Matt and Rhi). In the next scene we see Rhi meet Matthew, and sparks fly, and of course Rhi doesn't think she will see him again, but with Cait being the matchmaker, she won't get away so easy.

The characters in this story were lively and fun. There was quite a bit of the Westfield family involved, and boy I wouldn't mind trading some heated kisses with any of those brothers, sexy and hot. That is for sure. Lets get back to the sensual vampire though. Matthew, even though he is a vampire, is such a sweetie. He is gentle and kind, but when you need his alpha protective instincts, he is stellar. I love how patient he was with Rhiannon, and seemed amused by her abilities more than anything else. Rhiannon, is independing and fiery, and protective of her younger sister, but she seemed to be a bit vulnerable at times. She has some weaknesses and isn't so perfect, and it felt easy to relate with her as a character. The side characters were fun, and made me excited to read Dash's story. The more I read these books, the more I fall in love with this family and the setting. Having a paranormal theme in a historical setting, totally is my favorite set ups to read, and Dare does it with such a classic touch, you can't help but be captivated.

Overall a fun and steamy romance, with a regency setting, suspense and intrigue added to the plot, and a compelling tale of love and creatures that go bump in the night!!! TOTALLY SATISFIED!!!

[Blodeuedd Finland · Rating 3 out of 5]

More 3,5 or more



My thoughts:

This book is a part of a series but you can read it as a standalone. But if you really want to dive into this world then I recommend the 4 Westfield Wolves books first to get to know our dear lycans and witches. But this series of course belong to the vampires.

Matthew Halkett is old, he has seen it all. He is this steady figure of reason and at the same time one tempting delicious vampire. I am drawn to him as a moth to a flame and much of has to do with how fast he falls for Rhiannon. Sure he has doubts but then he is a vampire who will live forever, while she is an innocent who will not. Oh yes Rhiannon, a Scottish witch with a temper. She can command thunder and lightning and sure does when she gets angry. And she is not afraid of a vampire when she has that at her command.

This world is lovely and cosy somehow. I already know the Lycans (love them) and in this book we meet more. I sure hope Dare writes their story too because they are a fun bunch. The witches are fun and now when Rhiannon has found her man there is only Sorcha left and I can't wait for her story..and, oh just read the blurb. The vampires are a great addition to this world and I really enjoyed the banter between Matthew and the 4 Lycans he came across more times than he wanted. There is nothing like a brood of werewolves telling a vampire to back down ;)

The book has got a bit of humour, great friendships and passion. I did like how Matthew tried his best to be the perfect gentleman. Just a reason to like him even more.

Conclusion:

Lydia Dare does not disappoint. She (well they do) does it again and gives me a book that I read and time just disappears. There is always something that makes me want to read the next page and on. It kept me entertained and I read it in a heartbeat.

Rating.

Good

[Sia McKye · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun book!

One fiery Scot witch with lightning at her fingertips,
A sexy 600-year-old vampyre with scruples,
A newly born vampyre who’s trying the patience of his maker,
A pack of unruly Lycans,
A nasty Aunt bent on ruining the Scot witch and lining her pockets by *selling* her youngest sister,
An older but still feisty Duchess with a penchant for interference and brandy,

Throw them all into the pot and you have a funny but engaging story that will keep you laughing and turning pages.

I must confess this is the first Lydia Dare book I’ve had the chance to read. I can assure you, it won’t be the last. It stands alone but gives you a glimpse of other characters they’ve written about and makes you want to read those stories as well.

What I liked about this book is Lydia Dare keeps the characters well in the era written. The supernatural creatures hide in plain sight and I love the unexpected quirks they bring to the Ton and the story. Get rid of your preconceive ideas of shifters, vampires, and witches. Lydia Dare’s makes her own version of them with some delightful twists you don’t expect.

I love the family feel to this sisterhood of witches and the way they stick together. None of them are wimpy women and neither are the men they love. They made me laugh and cheer them on. The secondary characters, which readers of the series will know well, are fun. I have to admit to a fondness for the three Lycan brothers—what a hoot they are—yet they are protective. I love the Duchess of Hythe. Love to sit down and chat with her have tea—er, scratch that—I’m thinking brandy is more her style.

The love story between Matthew and Rhiannon is well written, lots of sexual tension, fraught with ups and downs and a few sideway curves, but never boring. The ending leaves you feeling good and wanting more.

All in all, this is a wonderful story for a hot summer day.

[Angelc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second book by Lydia Dare and I'm really glad I gave this author a second chance. I admit that after reading "It Happened One Bite," I was kind of wondering what all the hubbub was about surrounding the author. But after reading this book, I now understand! This was such a fun historical paranormal with a lot of romance, laughs and nothing too creepy on the paranormal front.

I heard a bit of negativity about the "prose" not being historically accurate enough. So, if you're a stickler for accuracy, you many have some complaints with this one. But I honestly loved the humor, readability, and campy fun that the more modern language brought to the story.

The romance was really cute and sweet-not what you normally see in paranormal romance land. I liked how 'gentlemanly' Matthew behaved. The ultimate ending of their love story was a little over the top, but very satisfying to a happy ending lover like myself.

I really enjoyed the supporting characters, too. Eynsford and Cait, the lead couple from "The Taming of the Wolf", were adorable. I loved that they both were present instead of the female being written out in the sequels so she can have a baby. This is something I see way too often in historical romance series, the lead male returns to the sequels, but the poor female is written is out entirely. Cheers to Lydia Dare for bringing Cait back!

Enysford's brothers were so cute, especially the twins. I'm sure they will get a their own stories somewhere down the line. I kind of felt like Rhi led poor Radbourne on a little at times, though.

Overall, this is such an enjoyable read with enough paranormal elements to keep fans of the genre interested, but not so creepy as to scare off historical romance fans. Campy, romantic fun!


ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review

reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com

[Melindeeloo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vampire Matthew who is at heart a still knight, though he no longer wears his shining armor, is immediately enchanted by weather witch Rhiannon when he comes across her wrapped in a storm of misery at night in a deserted park. And as Rhiannon's witchy sister conspires to throw the pair together, even though Matthew knows he has nothing to offer Rhiannon, for once in his long life he is finding himself unable to do the noble thing and stay away from her, even though Rhiannon has a whole slew of alpha males both shifter and vamp warning Matthew off.

I am just really fond of this series, I like the touch of paranormal added to the historical setting and after having met both leads separately in past books - Matthew was Jame's (It Happened one Bite) sire/mentor and Rhiannon is one of Blaire, Cait and Elspeth's coven sisters - I liked getting to see Matthew and Rhiannon's happily ever after. Yes, the romance is pretty lightweight and the leads form a connection pretty quickly, and there's just annoying relatives for a conflict instead of an evil villain but that didn't put a dent in my enjoyment at all. I also thought there were several promising future leading men in the Dashiel's (Taming of the Wolf) incorrigible Lycab (wolf shifter) brothers. The next book though continues with newbie vampire Alec McQuarrie- who has lost his true love to another - and the final witchy 'sister' - the upbeat Sorchia who is determined to have a Lycan of her own - so I am sure a few surprises are in store for the pair when the trilogy wraps up with Never Been Bit in September 2011.

[WildAboutBones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second in Dare's Regency Vampyre trilogy which is a spinoff from her Regency Werewolves trilogy. Some of the werewolves make an appearance much to the dismay of the vampryes but not to the witches who love them.

Matthew, Earl of Blodswell, was a knight who fought with Richard the Lionheart before being reborn a vampyre on the battlefield 600+ years ago. While he is thrilled his protege of 200+ yrs found his mate in the first book of the series, he finds himself lonely and envious of him here in the second. When he sees a woman dancing in the middle of a rainstorm he is captivated by her.

Rhiannon is the coven's weather witch. When she meets up again with Matthew, her powers suddenly seem to go bonkers and are hard to control. Her lycan brothers-in-law are less than thrilled with Matthew's interest in Rhi.

Dare has found a unique solution to the problem of a non-immortal mating with immortal (well, long-lived actually).

This, like the other stories in both series, is a funny paranormal romance sure to please. Dare does a good job of writing this as a stand alone book for those unfamiliar with the series or the Regency Werewolves trilogy without boring fans who have read the both series in order.

[Pyrate Queen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably my favorite of the whole series so far. Having read a couple out of order, I now find myself wanting to go back and re-read them in the correct order, but will wait until the series is complete (and probably on my bookshelf!)

Rhiannon Sinclair is one witch you don't want to mess with. It's like going up against Storm from X-Men. She has the power to control the weather; but unlike Storm, her powers go astray when she lets her emotions overcome her. It is during one such temper tantrum (as everyone around her like to call her storms) that Sir Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, finds her. Thinking she needs rescuing from the storm outside, he rushes to her side, only to find her laughing and dancing in the rain.

He is immediately besotted with the witch and sees right through her veneer and fabrication of a story. His powers as a vampire start to run amok as he finds he wants to other flesh to feed upon than the soft, tender skin of Miss Sinclair.

When witch and vampyre meet in their circle of friends, lightening will strike, as Rhiannon's inner coven is comprised mainly of Lycan (werewolves) and Matthew's protege is none other than Rhiannon's childhood friend Alec MacQuarrie who recently became a vampyre himself.

[Francis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Con un título que siempre se me olvida, con una portada tan fea, con un recuerdo del libro anterior que me decepciono (el primero de esta serie) no esperaba nada de este. así es que esta fue una lectura entretenida, La volvería a leer otra vez? ahorita pienso que no pero me conozco y.... Sé que en algún momento como siempre de repente me acordaré de la historia y la buscare obsesivamente pensando No puedo creer que un Vampiro se alivie de su situación vampirica de esa manera! Y.... Lo leeré otra vez, menos el primero porque de ese es un No.

[JillV · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ดาว สนุกกว่าเล่มแรกเพราะมีองค์ประกอบแบบยุครีเจนซีมากขึ้น มีงานเต้นรำ มีการหาคู่ระหว่างชนชั้นสูง มีการที่ผู้หญิงต้องคอยระวังเรื่องเสื่อมเสีย ฯลฯ บทสนทนาก็มีสีสันกว่าเล่มแรก ชอบเวลาแวมไพร์กับไลแคนมาเจอกัน แขวะกันไปมาสนุกดี ชอบความสัมพันธ์ระหว่างพระเอกกับแวมไพร์อื่นๆด้วย แต่การดำเนินเรื่องมันก็ยังเรื่อยๆมาเรียงๆอยู่ ไม่มีอะไรน่าตื่นเต้นเป็นพิเศษ

[Reg Ferns · Rating 2 out of 5]

Reading this book was a bit like pulling teeth. I was expecting a lot of romance and there was not much of it. Instead we got meddlesome side characters, a bipolar and immature heroine, a tedious hero and whole lot of boring dialogue.
I preferred Blair's and Sorcha's story to this infinitely.

[susan stacy smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

Great book it kept all the stories linked to each-other which is also great because you learn a little more about the characters from the other stories

[Daniela Romero · Rating 3 out of 5]

Me gustaron ambos protagonistas, tenían su toque particular que los hace atractivos. En este libro ya se sabe cómo terminará la novela, por lo que no hay mucha trama sobre la que gire la historia.

[Becky Schwartz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, as expected. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Rhi and Matt were fun and wonderful and I enjoyed it all. Paranormal regency is a fun subgenre.

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chivalry is far from undead...

Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, is one of the few men in the ton who can claim to be a knight in shining armor- because that's precisely what he was before being turned into a vampyre. When he spies a damsel in distress in the midst of a storm in Hyde Park, his natural instinct is to rush to her aid...

But not every woman needs to be rescued...

Weather-controlling witch Rhiannon Sinclair isn't caught in a storm-she's the cause of it. She's mortified to have been caught making trouble by the imposing earl, but she doesn't need any man-never has, and is sure she never will...

But when Rhiannon encounters Matthew again, her powers go awry and his supernatural abilities run amok. Between the two of them, the ton is thrown into an uproar. There's never been a more tempestuous scandal...

A man born in chivalrous times past is no match for a feisty and seductive Scottish weather witch, and watching the lightening flash and his fangs pop is only the beginning of the fun in store for readers in Ms. Dare’s latest romance.

First, this is a great stand alone book. For fans of the series, they’ll get to see one of the Westfield brothers again and one of Rhiannon’s sister witches. If this is the first time for a reader, those same people will come across as interesting and fun secondary characters. Either kind of reader will find entertainment and humor throughout and should find that Ms. Dare has once again provided a great storytelling experience.

Rhiannon has her story this time around and she is written as a woman who is loyal, fiercely protective, loving and giving but with bit of a temper to rival Zeus or Thor when crossed. Perhaps it has something to do with her propensity to hurl some well placed lightning bolts or two but the results are giggle-worthy and it was fun.

In the past, I believe I got a sense that her dad was a bit absent minded and at first, it didn’t seem that big a deal. The author lets a reader in on a big secret that presents a very real and touching emotional hook. It made me want to give Rhiannon a hug. Having a parent who seems disinterested in a child has deep ramifications no matter how adept the offspring become at hiding its affects. I was pretty impressed with how the author wove those sentiments throughout the story, and how it touched and influenced the other characters.

One person in particular gets the brunt of the heroine’s ire and saucy teasing and that’s Matthew, the hero. I was tickled when I found out that this man who’d given up on hope and accepted his life’s course should actually find love. I tremendously enjoyed watching him fall apart. Ms. Dare was deliciously coy with the details; it started out small, like a pebble going downhill turning into a landslide. It picked up speed and bowled the poor guy over with the truth. For all his knowledge and experience over his vast existence, the hero simply had no clue about the true power of love. It was pure romance.

As I mentioned before, there are some great secondary characters that spice up this tale and many revolve around the heroine’s best friend Cait’s husband, Dash. He has brothers and they all become protective of Rhiannon to the point of hilariousness. Don’t get me wrong, there are some serious, all out spooky moments where I didn’t know if someone was going to get shredded to ribbons or dead. Ms. Dare balanced the drama and suspense well enough that it never bogged the story down but enhanced the telling of it. There is also one special character that really had the makings for a vicious enemy. The person was certainly capable of evil and nasty attacks and I couldn’t figure out which way to think. Amazingly enough, the author chose the high road in a very unconventional battle that tested the mettle of the heroine. It was Rhiannon who made the difference and who saw clearly what the true nature of the threat was. What an impressive bit of writing!

The only person or part I didn’t care for was Aunt Greer. I guess I’m more vengeful or bloodthirsty because I would have not done what was ultimately done with her. I’ll let readers decide if it was foolish or magnanimous.

In the Heat of the Bite is a delightful romance that paranormal fans can sink their teeth into and find sweet-tart entertainment from beginning to end. The happily ever after was poignant and beautiful. The scenes leading up to it were vastly amusing due to Rhiannon’s fascination with Matthew’s teeth. I found myself laughing and sighing all at the same time. I can’t wait for Alec’s story; it can’t come soon enough.

One thing I do know is it’s a guarantee that Ms. Dare’s next book will be an auto-buy for me. For some reason, I can’t get enough!

Originally published on Long and Short Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Click here for all my Lydia Dare reviews

****CONTAINS SPOILERS****

Summary:

Matthew is a knight in shining armor, literally; at least he used to be, at over 650 years old! He was turned vampyre during the crusades and gifted with a magical ring by 5 Coig witches after he saved one of their lives. This ring allows him to go out during the day and to retain much of his humanity. Rhiannon is a member of the current Coig coven; she has extraordinary powers which allow her to control the elements. She is a force to be reckoned with. Rhiannon follows her sister Ginny to London, after the evil aunt comes to ‘launch” Ginny into society. Worried that her aunt does not have her little sister’s best interests at heart, Rhiannon follows and decides to stay with her fellow Coig member Caitrin. Saddened by her aunt’s harsh comments, Rhiannon is in the park near Caitrin’s house in the middle of a storm of her own creation, when suddenly a vampyre is in front of her attempting to rescue a damsel in distress. Matthew sees a woman in the middle of a violent storm and feels the need to get her to safety. It’s not until he gets to the woman that he notices a few things: first that she is incredibly beautiful, second she doesn’t seem to be worried that she is in the middle of a storm and third that he becomes inexplicably thirsty when he had just fed recently and wasn’t the least bit thirsty before he saw her. Matthew quickly realizes that the storm is of this beauty’s making so she must be a member of the Coig coven, which he recently had some dealings with. Having recently had a bad encounter with a vampire, Rhiannon is understandably frightened of this handsome man in front of her so she flees to Caitrin’s home, with him on her mind. It seems that the world is plotting against Rhiannon. Her aunt won’t let her near her sister because of the “taint” that Rhiannon brings and for the life of her she can’t stay away from Matthew; he is everywhere she is. Never has Matthew ever wanted a woman as much as he wants Rhiannon. He is trying to be honorable and remember that chivalry is not dead or undead in his case, but every time he nears Rhiannon all good intentions seem to go out the window; and Rhiannon is not helping his cause. Since meeting Rhiannon, Matthew has been off, first he started getting headaches (which hasn’t happened in over 600 years). Then the pinches of pain where his heart used to be and now he can’t feed, except off of Rhiannon which he refuses to do. After over 600 years of perfect health, could Rhiannon be the very death of him?

Review:

Let me start by saying I have been waiting for Rhiannon’s story of the Coig witches; she is my favorite and Lydia Dare did not disappoint me at all. One of the things I liked about Rhiannon was her powers; her power is over the elements which are fascinating and we all know I like a good witch. L. Dare did not shy away from putting Rhiannon’s powers on display and in fact she used them often. She had Rhiannon creating storms, zapping people with lightening, mini tornados, and the works. The other thing about Rhiannon that I liked was despite her great power was her vulnerability. She has all this power yet has lacked love in her life (her dad couldn’t be bothered and her aunt can’t stand her), so when Matthew comes into the picture, you are genuinely happy for her. Matthew is a knight of old, whom never quite lost his chivalrous tendencies. He still wants to do the noble and right thing by Rhiannon but doesn’t think he deserves her as a vampire; but he has to have her anyway. Mathew recognizes that Rhiannon is powerful in her own right. You have got to love a man that knows a strong powerful woman when he sees her. Matthew is a great compliment to Rhiannon; he accepts and loves her as she is bad weather and all.

This book also has great supporting characters. The Duchess, she has a small role but it’s memorable; she is a firecracker. She is cranky, direct, and says what she wants when she wants and you love her for it and hope to see her again in future books. You see much more of Dash’s brothers who are very entertaining in their own right. They are very energetic, loud and mischievous. Lydia Dare has announced that this trio will be getting their own series so pay attention to these guys; not that this is a hardship. Sorcha returns in this book and I really enjoy her. She is youthful, full of life and happy. Alec also appears in this book quite often. He is a lot more morose in this book then we are used to seeing from him, but after the turn of events in the last book, it is understandable. With Alec you are left hoping that he will get his own HEA.

[Sandy M · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve been looking forward to this offshoot of Lydia Dare’s Westfield Brothers series. I didn’t really know what to expect, just that vampyres are being introduced into the mix. Unfortunately, I missed reading the first book in this new series, so I’m not sure if that has somehow dampened my enjoyment of this book , if it’s something else entirely, or perhaps a combination of both.

While the majority of my disappointment in this story is more than like a combo, the main sticking point for me is it’s the hero who let me down this time. I’ve enjoyed most of the heroes in these books, a couple more than others, so I’m slightly surprised Matthew doesn’t work as well for me. He does everything right. He’s a gentleman and a vampyre. He takes his responsibilities seriously. And he’s taken immediately with Rhiannon, even despite her witchly powers. But in comparison to those other heroes, Matthew is…a tad boring.

Rhiannon is in London for her sister’s coming out, but their aunt won’t her anywhere near the girl. The woman looks down on those witchly powers. It’s due to this aunt that Rhi pitches a fit of a storm - she controls the weather - in the middle of the night in the middle of a park, and Matthew just happens by. He’s fascinated. Rhiannon, not so much return fascination. She hasn’t had much luck with vampyres, having been attacked by one, so she’s a wee bit lukewarm toward Matthew.

From this point on, things kind of get tiresome. Matthew isn’t the typical alpha hero for being a vampyre. All those traits he has are fine, but he’s a supernatural being. Gimme alpha along with it. So he’s just ho-hum, as is the story for a good portion of the book. While there’s a spark between Matthew and Rhiannon, nothing else all that exciting goes on. There’s not much conflict. In fact, there’s more conflict between Matthew and Alec, who is now a vampyre himself - something that happened in the first book, which I’d really like to know about. I think it would definitely help my understanding of this story more. The only thing that perks me up is Rhiannon’s weather control problems. While she can, of course, control it when she desires, she has none whatsoever when it comes to extreme emotion, and there are some fun scenes when rain and other elements show up at all the wrong times. Matthew has control problems with Alec, but he controls his desire for Rhiannon, despite her best efforts to make him lose every ounce. So there’s a whole lot of control problems, but none of the really wake the story up.

The one element of the story that really irritates me, though, is the fact that Matthew, once he falls in love with and acknowledges his love for Rhiannon, becomes human again. Sigh. That negates one of the main reasons why I read these paranormal books. Okay, I realize perhaps Ms. Dare is trying to give readers something different, but this is just too much. Happily ever after in a paranormal is just that, happy forever. Don’t take that away when that’s the ultimate romance, being with the one you love for all eternity. In hindsight, I see the clues in Matthew missing his long-gone human traits, always feeling the outsider, and the like, but this concept just caught me off guard, and I didn’t like it. And the fact that Rhiannon knew this could happen, something else from the previous book, and she never mentions it to a soul? Really? Doesn’t make sense when she talks about everything else under the sun with her coven sisters.

What I do like is Alec’s story, and I’m looking forward to his book. I’m hoping to read It Happened One Bite before I get to his, however, because I do want to know what happened to him as it happens and not from his or anyone else’s recollections or conversation about it, and I believe that will fill in the holes I’ve fallen into already. All of you read-my-series-in-order readers know how that goes. But I’m anxious to find out who his lady love will be after his infatuation and constant protection of Caitlin throughout all of these books.

We also get to reacquaint ourselves with past characters, and I’m still especially fond of Dashiel. He has his hands full with Cait and his brothers, whom at times seem a little too childish but do then show great character at others. I’m not sure I really like Callista’s character. She’s Matthew’s maker, and when she realizes she’s losing him, in more ways than one, she goes a little ballistic. I’d rather she’d been happy for the man after his being alone and basically unhappy for more than six centuries.

So, all in all, there’s just a mish-mash of goings-on all the way through this book, and that’s just not up to what I expect from Lydia Dare after four very successful books. Quite bewildering.

See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com

[Ellie · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Heat of the Bite by Lydia Dare

2 ½ out of 5

“The storm clouds lifted. The rain stopped. She glanced down at her drenched dress, which now hugged her body like a second skin, and crossed her arms in front of her chest. And that was when he realized it. She was caught by the storm. She was the storm. Saint George’s teeth! She was a force to be reckoned with. She was one of them.”

Rhiannon Sinclair is a witch with powers that help her control the weather. When she’s angry thunder and lighting will strike and when she’s sad rain will pour inside a ballroom. Rhiannon heads from Edinburgh to London to find her sister, Ginny, and save her from their horrible Aunt Greer’s plans to marry her off to the highest bidder. When she finally tracks down her Aunt things don’t go as Rhiannon plans and she throws one heck of a temper tantrum.

Mathew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, has lived as a vampyre for 650 years. In these years he has seen pretty much everything there is to see until he comes across a young woman in the middle of a horrible thunderstorm. As soon as Blodswell sets eyes on Rhiannon he is awestruck with the weather witch. Rhiannon takes one look at the man trying to save her from her own storm and knows exactly what he is. Rhiannon decides to use Blodswell and his good reputation to help gain entry into the ton and society so she can keep and eye on her sister and her Aunt. Rhiannon get Blodswell to agree to pretend to court her. Pretending to be in love with each other soon becomes much harder then either had anticipated or bargained for.

This book started out great. It has everything I could ever hope for England, the ton, balls, vampyres, witches and lycan. I also loved that the female lead was a witch, a weather witch at that, and not just a human like in so many other vampire books. The fact that it’s set in England in the 1800’s even better. In the Heat of the Bite is part of a historical paranormal romance series but it can easily be read as a stand alone. The characters and plots from the previous books are well introduced early on so as a reader you aren’t wondering what’s so going on. Even with all of these greats things going on I just couldn’t get into the story or the characters.

Rhiannon seemed like such a great female lead in the beginning and I really liked the idea that she could control the weather. How cool is that? I would love to be able to blast someone who made me mad with a little bolt of lighting. The problem was that she was kind of a cry baby. She cried and pouted and threw tantrums a lot and didn’t use her power to stand up for herself until the last ten pages. I like very strong female leads, especially if I’m going to be convinced that they can get a 650 year old vampyre to fall in love with them. I really came away with wanting more out of this character and feeling disappointed that she wasn’t as tough as I thought she was.

Lord Blodswell wasn’t horrible but like Rhiannon he didn’t do much. About halfway through the book I realized what I was having a problem with: there’s no villain. There is no villain, no action, no plot to destroy either character and no chance for either Blodswell or Rhiannon to save one another. The biggest problem at the beginning is that as a vampyre Blodswell can’t take Rhiannon as a wife, sleep with er or drink her blood because she is innocent. Twenty pages later he changes his mind, drinks her blood, fools around and they agree to get married. Huh? It was such a drastic change that I had to go back and re-read the pages to make sure I didn’t miss anything. The last half of the book was them having a misunderstanding over did he or didn’t he kiss someone else. Then they planned their wedding. That was the whole story and I was bored. It was really well written but there was just no action going on, no one to hate, no suspenseful “how will they get out of this” situations and no use of either of the awesome supernatural powers that both characters posses.

I really wanted to like this book and I just couldn’t. I wish that there had either been more of the paranormal aspect going on and maybe a villain or I think it should have had no paranormal aspect at all and just been a historical romance. Great concept just not a great delivery for me which is why I gave it 2 ½ out of 5. I might try to pick up one of the earlier books in the series from the library because I hate to judge a whole series off of one book. I’m hoping one of the earlier books has the historical-paranormal balance that I was craving because I really liked the way the books were written.

[Christyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was anticipating reading Matthew's story since we were introduced to him in It Happened One Bite. I was also a fan of Rhiannon and was thrilled to find out this was their story. In the Heat of the Bite is the second book in the trilogy (and is tied with the Westfield Wolves series). Truthfully it's probably best to read these books in order (I did not read all of the Westfield Wolves but do note that they show up in these books). There is a regular cast of characters that show's up, and their relationships and issue's tend to play out throughout the books. There are also some spoilers for previous books.

That being said, I enjoyed In the Heat of the Bite but I didn't love it. I wanted too but I didn't. I wanted to spend more time with Matthew and Rhiannon, and get to know them better. Rhiannon and Matthew each have their own personalities and things that I liked/didn't but at times they were just overwhelmed by other characters. Since this is a romance I expected to spend more time with them, watching their relationship develop and grow and felt that aspect of the book wasn't explored as well as it could have been. There were no 'major' conflicts, but a lot of minor ones that popped up. There was also a strong secondary cast that seemed to at times take over the story (like with Alec). I liked the secondary characters and the interactions but I felt they played too much of a role (for a romance - which I think should focus more on the main couple).

The strength of this books characters is also it's weakness. I love the bonds, the relationships and the interplay but there were times it felt like more of the story was dedicated to catching the characters up with each other, showing things that have changed/stayed the same, etc. rather than on the romance aspect until it just took on a life of it's own. I am also still not satisfied with the whole Vampyre to Human thing that was also present in the first book - just summing it up to the power of love doesn't make sense to my brain.

Overall - I liked it, and it was an enjoyable way to pass the time. Rhiannon and Matthew were (mostly) charming characters (though Matthew wasn't particularly memorable). I will finish this series because I really, really am looking forward to reading the two upcoming characters' story (since one of those characters in particular is probably my favorite of the series so far). 3.5 stars.

[Patti TheLoveJunkee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars!

Rhiannon Sinclair has traveled from Scotland to England in search of her younger sister, Ginessa. Rhiannon's Aunt Greer has taken her to England for the Season, and Rhiannon is worried Aunt Greer has a hidden agenda. While she's in England, Rhiannon is staying with her newly married friend, Cait, who is one of her coven sisters - Rhiannon is also a witch who can control the weather.

Matthew Hilkett, Earl of Blodswell, is over 650 years old. He's back in England at his ancestral home with the newly turned vampire, Alec MacQuarrie. Blodswell was forced to turn him after a vicious attack, and now he must mentor MacQuarrie as a vampire.

While Rhiannon is walking home from her aunt's home, she is so distraught over her sister's situation that she creates a terrible storm. Blodswell, thinking she is a damsel in distress, attempts to rescue her, but she runs from him. They keep getting thrown together (oftentimes at Cait's insistence), and Rhiannon soon realizes Blodswell is not as terrible as she supposed, and perhaps he had reason to turn MacQuarrie. Blodswell, in turn, is captivated by Rhiannon, he cannot get her out of his head - he can't drink except from Rhiannon, which he will not do in respect for her honor.

She wants him, he wants her, but there doesn't seem to be a solution to their dilemma....

My thoughts:
I really enjoy the writings of the duo that is Lydia Dare; their historical paranormal stories are captivating. When the coven was first introduced (in Tall, Dark, and Wolfish), I didn't think I'd like the witches, but I do. I'm not as enamored by the vampires as I am by the wolves, but they are entertaining. Blodswell is a man of utmost breeding and manners, and for that reason he had a difficult time recriprocating Rhiannon's feelings for him and acting on his feelings for her. Rhiannon is more hot-headed and impulsive; she doesn't think twice about sending a bolt of lightning to make her point.

While I liked both Rhiannon and Blodswell, I found that for me, the best parts of the story involved the secondary characters in this book - Cait's lycan brothers-in-law (Dash's brothers from The Taming of the Wolf) were wickedly charming and I especially liked the oldest brother, Archer Radbourne, who seems to be a fun-loving scoundrel. I also found myself searching for passages involving MacQuarrie - his heartbreak over Cait's marriage to Dash and his despair that he'll ever find love himself have me looking forward to his story in the next book in this series - Never Been Bit, out in September.

[Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" · Rating 1 out of 5]

In the Heat of the Bite (Gentleman Vampires) (Kindle Edition)
The story is about Matthew the Earl of Blodswell vampire and Rhiannon a Coig coven witch. I was very disappointed in the way these characters where written Matthew was not the typical Alpha Male he condescended to just about everyone in the story and their are a lot of people to keep up with. I started out liking Rhiannon until the end of the book when she becomes the defending hero and protector instead of Matthew their was to much of a role reversal. Chivalry is not dead but it was in this book. I like it when the man protects the women. I also, didn't like that the vampires in the story are turned human after meeting their true mates and falling in love. I read Vampire books because I like the immortality of vampires and their mysticism. Rhiannon is never with Matthew she is always with the other characters in the book like Lord Archer Radbourne and his other Lycan brothers. Their was more romance and interaction with Rathboune than Matthew. The Lycans in the story Rathbourne and his twin brothers Wes and Grey were very annoying acted acting like teenagers instead of adults. I didn't like Rhiannon's Aunt Greer being rewarded with a trust fund to be nice her, she hated her niece all through the book, so at the end they pay the villain to be nice and treat her like a niece. I don't reward bad behavior and I hate stories that due. These two authors (pseudonym Lydia Dare) Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson Can Not write love making scenes!!. They were Awful!! Tt was two petting love scenes a few lines long and two actual lovemaking scenes about one paragraph. Just horrible for a PR Romance.

I did like Calissta who was Matthews maker, but at the end of the book the authors vilified her. She was good and kind all through the book to Matthew who she called her son . Callista was just upset because Matthew had become human and she felt she had lost him. Of course Rhiannon was the one to fight her and of course she won. Oh did I say that all the Lycans and Matthew was their and Callista really didn't do anything horrible she just showed up to their wedding ball and the Lycans tried to stop her. Just Dumb Dumb!! I also, Love The Duchess of Hythe, she was a wonderful character and Alec MacQuarrie who's story is next. You can tell by reading that the book is going in two diffrent directions. At times it seems weird until you read at the end that the story is written by two people. This was a big mistake. I cannot recommend this book!!

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Heat of The Bite
by Lydia Dare

5 stars

Reviewed by: Angels

Format:Kindle

Published: Sourcebooks Casablanca/Mass Market

Paperbacks

Source:Purchased Copy

Genre: Paranormal Romance


Blurb

She makes him feel more alive than he has since he died...

Chivalry is far from undead...

Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, is one of the few men in the ton who can claim to be a knight in shining armor—because that's precisely what he was before being turned into a vampyre. When he spies a damsel in distress in the midst of a storm in Hyde Park, his natural instinct is to rush to her aid...

But not every woman needs to be rescued...

Weather-controlling witch Rhiannon Sinclair isn't caught in a storm— she's the cause of it. She's mortified to have been caught making trouble by the imposing earl, but she doesn't need any man—never has, and is sure she never will...

But when Rhiannon encounters Matthew again, her powers go awry and his supernatural abilities run amok. Between the two of them, the ton is thrown into an uproar. There's never been a more tempestuous scandal...

My Thoughts and Review

What a heart warming romance between Matthew And Rhiannon.The book was definitely a page turner from the beginning to the end.Such and engrossing plot twist from the beginning you cold not put the book down.Two souls meet when they need it the most. Matthew feeling lost and Rhiannon feeling said. The two mixed well together even they Rhiannon took and instant hate to the Earl things turned around quickly.These two needed each other but, didn't really know it.The stars had this odd couple fated together. Who would have thought ?

Ciara , Rhiannon sister which the seer.The story starts out easily and becomes more complex as something starts to happen to the earl he is unable to feed and the only one who can help him is Rhiannon.A vampire unable to eat and it seems like he is dying will the little witch be able to help the handsome vampire with her magic or her blood?

One of the things I enjoy about this series is the interactions of all the different past cast members the Lycan's and the vampires the characters are so enjoyable fun and give you ton of laughs. I laughed through this book to the beginning to the end.This series keeps getting better and better.I was rooting for Rhiannon's happiness from the beginning What a heart felt romance. A Recommended read for all.

[Marilyn Rondeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are few men of the ton who could claim to being a knight in shining armor – however Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell was just that – before he was turned into a vampire 650 years ago. So naturally, when he saw a damsel in distress in the midst of a furious storm in Hyde Park, he did what was required and rushed to her aid. However, the damsel was not in distress, rather Rhiannon Sinclair was a witch who could control the weather and she was having a real “hissy” fit while reveling in the storm she had caused! Unfortunately, for both of these determined people who had sworn never to need another person in their lives – Rhiannon’s weather and Matthew’s supernatural abilities were both running amok whenever they were both in the same vicinity.

*** With a description and summary similar to the above – I found myself eager to jump into this book and rushed to download it onto my Kindle. This was just my ‘cuppa tea’ what with witches, vampyres, and wolves (a bonus that) and historical too! And much to my delight although this was totally stand alone, I came to realize that this is part of a series and I have more to look forward to, and several tomes to look back upon, from the dynamic duo of authors that call themselves Lydia Dare.

First of all, the characters were all terribly unique in IN THE HEAT OF THE BITE, especially Rhiannon a witch that could control weather and I loved how she could direct those mini lightning strikes at will – now that’s what I call a weapon of being able to protect oneself; or it could just make someone sit up and take notice – he he he!

Matthew was divine and honorable! Actually, Rhiannon thought he was just a bit too honorable and wished her friends would have backed off (several times) to let nature take its course. It could turn into a pain to have a golden werewolf, married to your best friend who is a clairvoyant witch, and have him and his pack of siblings ready to uphold her honor! However, they all made for some very humorous and enjoyable scenario’s which were generously sprinkled throughout IN THE HEAT OF THE BITE. And of course, let’s not forget Alec – who is a fledgling vampire under Matthew’s care, who will have his own story in the next book of this enchanting and thoroughly amusing series!

BOTTOM LINE: Don’t let IN THE HEAT OF THE BITE pass you bye – get a taste and become as enraptured as me.

Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really do not know why I put off reading all of these great romance books that I've had on my shelves. They have all been so good and this one was certainly not a disappointment. Matthew intrigued me when we first saw him in It Happened One Bite so I was excited to hear this book was focusing on him. He truly is a knight in shining armor even if he's left his armor back home but as is usual of our tortured heroes he feels that Rhiannon deserves better since he will never grow old and cannot provide her with children. Rhiannon was also a joy to read. She has a total kick ass power to control the weather and it's funny to see her causing rain and thunder storms in her fits of temper. It's a good thing I don't have power like she does because it would be awfully tempting to send a few bolts of lightning at people who irritate me but she showed remarkable restraint.

The chemistry between the two is sizzling and it was fun to watch the interplay between them as well as some of the supporting characters. The three single Lycan brothers really do remind me of puppies romping around and getting themselves into all sorts of mischief. I can actually picture the silly smiles on their face as they wreak havoc. Just as a warning though there are a ton of characters that come up in the book and if you are like me and haven't read her previous series it can get a bit confusing. I do want to go back and read about Dash and Cait and some of the other couples that make an appearance. The only character I did not really care for was Alec MacQuarrie. Granted he's having a rough time adjusting to life as a vampire but still he was a bit too whiny and love sick over Cait for my tastes. Sometimes you just want to slap him and tell him to grow up. Still I have enjoyed the first two books in the series so I will most likely pick up the next book which I believe will focus on Alec and another witch, Sorcha.

The main reason I did not give this book a higher rating is there wasn't much to the plot. Don't get me wrong, it was a fun read but there was no real villain, no mystery to solve and no major obstacles to overcome. I was actually surprised at how early on in the book the two fall in love, realize it and go for a happily ever after. Still Lydia Dare is another great author to add to my romance library.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary from Goodreads:

"Chivalry is far from undead...

Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, is one of the few men in the ton who can claim to be a knight in shining armor- because that's precisely what he was before being turned into a vampyre. When he spies a damsel in distress in the midst of a storm in Hyde Park, his natural instinct is to rush to her aid...

But not every woman needs to be rescued...

Weather-controlling witch Rhiannon Sinclair isn't caught in a storm-she's the cause of it. She's mortified to have been caught making trouble by the imposing earl, but she doesn't need any man-never has, and is sure she never will...

But when Rhiannon encounters Matthew again, her powers go awry and his supernatural abilities run amok. Between the two of them, the ton is thrown into an uproar. There's never been a more tempestuous scandal.."

My Thoughts:

In the Heat of the Bite was an enjoyable read and I'm glad that I had the chance to pick it up. I didn't realize when I picked it up that it was the 2nd book in a trilogy and am happy to say that it never affected my enjoyment of the book. Rhiannon is a witch and part of a coven of other witches. She was a fun main character to read about as she had a lot of spunk to her even though she hasn't had the easiest life. The romance that develops between Rhiannon and Matthew was unique and amusing as they face many different obstacles throughout the book. This book made me smile at times when I was reading it as it was just one of those books that you couldn't help but like. The main characters were good, the plot was different than a lot of similar books out there, and it was just a solid read. The only problem that I had with it was Rhiannon's accent drove me a bit crazy at first. Now I'll admit right off the bat that this was a personal thing and didn't bother me by the end of the book. The beginning was a different story though until I got used to it. And while this wasn't my favorite read, I did find it to be a really good romance and a series that I want to read more of. I definitely will be picking up the first book in this trilogy to see how everything all started :) Recommended to fans of paranormal romance!

Bottom Line: A solid read with characters that I want to read more of.

Disclosure: I was lucky enough to be sent this book for review by the publisher.

[Book Binge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell, and vampyre sees Rhiannon in the park and is entranced by her. He finds himself more than attracted to the woman and escorts her home. Of course she’s staying at her fellow witches house and that witch is married to a Lycan who is quite protective of her and doesn’t like the vampyre at all.

Rhiannon wants to look after her sister and devises a plan where Matthew is pretending to court her so that she can be found more respectable and therefore able to attend the same balls that her sister attends. But Matthew wants it to go further and make it a real engagement. The problem is that he doesn’t find that he can because of so many reasons. He will outlive her and he can’t give her children. Soon, however, Matthew finds that she’s the only one that he can feed from and this proves to be a problem when Rhiannon is surrounded by so many Lycans. Fortunately magic is on Matthew’s side and he soon finds that nothing will stand his way to Rhiannon.

Another nice addition to the series by Lydia Dare. This story sets us in London rather than Scotland which was a bit different. I find that I like the stories set in Scotland as all the witches are Scottish and they just seem to fit better there.

I really liked Matthew in this book more than I did Rhiannon. He was strong, honorable and just a darned likable guy. Rhiannon was nice and a fine character but she really didn’t stand out in any particular way – even with the weather thing. She was very emotional as shown to us by all the storms she created but other than that…there was nothing to make her stand out among heroines.

I also was quite aware of how being respectable and proper was important in this book but the woman were running around without chaperone’s and Rhiannon would go out walking with Matthew or get into his carriage with no consequences. I think I’ve had regency etiquette put into my head so much by the many historicals that I read that the lack really showed in this story.

Again, a cute story but really not all that much different than the book right before it in the series. Good characters and all but with much the same story as the first book in the trilogy.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

This review was originally posted by Tracy on Book Binge.

[Laura Summers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviewed for www.BookChickCity.com (7 out of 10 on the blog)

'In the Heat of the Bite' is a great book that combines a regency romance with the wonderful world of vampires and the supernatural. It's the second in a series, but I haven't read the first and you can easily pick it up as a stand-alone novel.

Matthew has been a vampire for over six hundred years, and was once a real knight in shining armour. He's never been in love and has no wish to be, not wanting to inflict his lifestyle onto an innocent woman.

Rhiannon is a witch, with some pretty super cool powers. She can control the weather. Although not so great when your emotions get out of control, and you inflict a thunderstorm on those around you, or perhaps even send a bolt of lightening into the punch bowl.

Intent on rescuing her sister from the unkind manipulations of her aunt, Rhiannon travels from Scotland to London and find herself thrown into the society and the ways of the ton. It only takes her first event for her to cause a scandal, and now everyone's talking about her.

Matthew and Rhiannon are great characters, but it was the supporting cast that stole the show in this book. Staying in London with her best friend Cait, it's Cait's werewolf brothers-in-law who light up the pages. The hilarious threesome were continually making me laugh with their antics, be it getting into trouble or sneaking into balls they weren't invited to.

Do you ever have a book that you simply enjoy, but don't have a lot to say about it? 'In the Heat of the Bite' is one of those books. It's a romance through and through, the plot evolves around the budding relationship between Matthew and Rhiannon. While this is a really great romance and they are a fab couple, this does mean that not a lot else happens in the book. I wonder if this is why I have little to comment on it. It's one of those books you can sit back and enjoy and close with a smile on your face.

VERDICT:

A fun supernatural romance, I enjoyed the mix of paranormal with the regency setting. Sit back and enjoy the great characters, and sizzling chemistry between Rhiannon and Matthew and work out who you would hit with a lightening bolt if you had the chance! ;-)

[Melody May (What I'm Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

One book closer to the next Lydia Dare book. I'm super excited to bring you this delightsome read, which is In the Heat of the Bite. So, I will tell you about the book and what I thought of it.

Rhiannon Sinclair know as the weather witch heads to London to rescue her sister from their awful Aunt Greer. Who has gotten in her head that she would launch Genny into society. Rhiannon is not happy with the situation and decides to have a temper tantrum in the middle of Hyde Park, when Matthew Halkett, Earl of Blodswell stumbles upon her. Nothing with rain, thunder and lighting in the middle of Hyde Park, while the rest of London is dry. A tad bit disturbed by Matthew appearance, decides to run away from him. Come on the last encounter she had with a vampire wasn't a pleasant one, which would explain why she would run like a scared rabbit.

Rhiannon comes to find out that Matthew is real not a bad vampire and needs some help to gain some respectability in the eyes of her aunt. I don't know why she would want that from a bitter jealous aunt. Rhiannon is not the only that needs help, Matthew has come to realize that he has no desire to feed on anyone else after meeting Rhiannon. That's not good, after all he is a vampire. Hmmm, what to do, what to do? It's always hard being a gentleman vampire.

Who wouldn't want a knight and shinning armor kinda guy? I mean he's always there when you need him. And who doesn't want a friend who can effect the weather? Both can come in handy. Then you put them together, wow what an effect.

Overall, I liked the story and as always the dynamic duo who make up Lydia Dare are always building to create future stories. However, they are very subtle and you wouldn't really notice. Since this is my second time reading this book, I'm starting to see the future characters. Honestly, these books are really neat in that aspect, you don't see too many authors doing this. I strongly suggest reading the other books first before diving into this story, because it really helps the story along. So, I leave you today and happy reading.

[Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book of Lydia Dare’s Regency Vampyre Series picks up shortly after the conclusion of It Happened One Bite (review HERE) with Matthew Halkett, the Earl of Blodswell, discovering Coig Witch, Rhiannon Sinclair in the middle of a self-made rain storm. Blodswell, a 650-year-old vampyre, is a valiant knight with a history significant with the Coig, and was a featured prominently in the last Regency story as the maker of Lord Kettering. Rhi is one of the five “sister witches” of the Coig from Edinburgh, Scotland. She has ventured to London to visit her younger sister, who is living with their Aunt Greer.

The story was another enjoyable regency piece. Rhi is another strong woman who surrounds herself with close friends and a strong support network. Although she is young, she doesn’t allow others to push her around. I love her interactions with mentor, Duchess of Hythe, who deserves her own backstory - she’s a feisty one! I also love how the Duchess doesn’t take crap from any of the Hadley Brothers (Lycan) or the “evil step-motherish” Aunt Greer.

I fell for Blodswell in the last book and couldn’t wait to read his story. While I had hoped for more backstory and his detailed history, I still felt it was a satisfying and enjoyable tale. Blodswell was a true gentleman, caring for Rhi’s welfare above his own. Good thing Rhi wouldn’t let him get away with that! And *phew* were they HOT together! I enjoyed their forbidden rendezvous quite a lot. Their romance was innocent, yet sizzling.

One thing I will suggest for new readers is to jot down notes to keep track of the characters because there are a lot. And when you toss in the fact that some characters have both given names and titles, it can get confusing. All-in-all another fun, romantic tale from Lydia Dare. I enjoy the paranormal spin on a regency romance. For me, each story in this series gets a bit better and more enjoyable.

My Rating: 4 Stars (A-)

My full review can be found here: http://twimom227.blogspot.com/2011/07...

[♥ I’d Rather Be Reading ♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the second book of the new Regency Vampyre Trilogy, we have Matthew (or better known as Blodswell) and Rhiannon's story. Rhi is in London to support her sister Ginny's first season and Blodswell lives there. When Blodswell see's Rhi in the midst of a storm she's conjured up, he is instantly taken by her. She, on the other hand, is not a big fan of vampyres due to a bit of bad history where she was attacked by one.

Unlike the first book, It Happened One Bite, this one doesn't really have any outside conflict. The primary focus of the book is just the romance between the two of them. So this made for a pretty light read. Since it was light on the conflict, that made it a bit boring as well. It seemed like Blodswell and Rhi didn't have much standing in the way of them being together and they were both pretty taken with each other rather quickly. So, that kind of took away from there being much of a bigger story going on. I guess it depends on what you're looking for. This would be a really good light summer read. But, if you're looking for more of a bigger story in your romance, then this probably wouldn't be your best pick.

The other thing that bugged me. Warning, big spoiler: Like with the first book, this is a series that is sort of backwards from most vampyre stories. Instead of the non-vampyre in the relationship becoming immortal somehow, the vampyre is turned completely human because of falling in love. I'm not really a fan of this. I like the thought of them being together forever after falling in love, rather than just a human lifespan.

So overall, this was a really cute and sweet love story. But like I said, there's not much conflict. It's a light read that would be really good to take on a vacation, or read on the beach, or if you're just looking for something that you don't need to concentrate much on. I didn't like it as much as the first book, but I'm really looking forward to reading about Alec's story next. He deserves some happiness for once. :]

[Bookaholics · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Heat of the Bite by Lydia Dare
Paranormal Romance –July 1st, 2011
4 stars

Rhiannon Sinclair is a weather witch with her fiery Scottish temper. When she loses control, storms soon follow. She is angry when she discovers that her younger sister, Ginny has been kidnapped by her nasty aunt to London. Rhiannon rides to the rescue only to find her sister wants to stay with her aunt for her aunt has promised Ginny a London season. But Rhiannon is suspicious of an aunt who was never been kind to either of them. When she finds herself in the company of a dangerous and attractive vampire named Matthew Halkett, her first impression is to stay away. However, his beauty and chivalry attracts her. When she discovers that being in his company increases her standing in society and makes her social climbing aunt warm up to her, she concocts a plan. With Matthew’s help, she will be able to get close to her sister, and so she asks him to ‘pretend’ to court her. But what happens when she want the courtship to turn real?

This was a lively romp. Readers who love this series of sassy, Scottish witches will enjoy this latest installment. Matthew is an absolutely gorgeous and chivalrous hero. In comparison, Rhiannon does seem immature and a bit too impulsive at times. I liked the storyline and the fascinating secondary characters especially the newly turn vampire, Alec MacQuarrie, the scheming Duchess and the powerful vampire Callista. I hope the next book will feature Alec MacQuarrie and the young nature sprite Sorcha. However, I did find the heavy Scottish accent distracting. I will cross my finger that after the next book featuring Sorcha (?!) that the author will return to heroines with a milder accent.

Fun, charming and easy to read, this is a series to lighten your day.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club