What do you think?
Rate this book
Full Moon/Insolita Luna #1
Blood Moon
There’s something different about Noah…
Zack Parker met his best friend Noah at his lake cabin when they were only five years old. He realized he felt more than friendship for him by the time they were in junior high school. One fateful night when they were eighteen Zack couldn’t take it anymore. Fueled by love and lust and need, he finally kissed Noah like he’d wanted to for years…and Noah kissed him back, returning every drop of Zack’s passion.
The next morning, Noah ended their friendship for what Zack believed was forever.
Now twenty-one, Zack resents being dragged by his guilt-tripping mother every summer back to the lake cabin where every leaf and rock and turn in the road reminds him of Noah and the love he felt for him three long years before. He hates being reminded of what he lost and more than anything he wants his best friend back.
But this year things are different.
Noah has returned, apologetic and more gorgeous than ever. Amazingly, he seems to want Zack as much as Zack wants him. He’s sweet and attentive, sexy enough to make Zack’s thighs quiver, but there’s something not quite right…
What secret is Noah hiding?
Zack Parker met his best friend Noah at his lake cabin when they were only five years old. He realized he felt more than friendship for him by the time they were in junior high school. One fateful night when they were eighteen Zack couldn’t take it anymore. Fueled by love and lust and need, he finally kissed Noah like he’d wanted to for years…and Noah kissed him back, returning every drop of Zack’s passion.
The next morning, Noah ended their friendship for what Zack believed was forever.
Now twenty-one, Zack resents being dragged by his guilt-tripping mother every summer back to the lake cabin where every leaf and rock and turn in the road reminds him of Noah and the love he felt for him three long years before. He hates being reminded of what he lost and more than anything he wants his best friend back.
But this year things are different.
Noah has returned, apologetic and more gorgeous than ever. Amazingly, he seems to want Zack as much as Zack wants him. He’s sweet and attentive, sexy enough to make Zack’s thighs quiver, but there’s something not quite right…
What secret is Noah hiding?
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2010
67 people are currently reading
701 people want to read
About the author
M.J. O'Shea
86 books947 followersMJ O’Shea has never met a music festival, paintbrush, or
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 11, 2021
*sigh* Another two star read for Jilly!
Okay, so this book wasn't bad per say, just underdeveloped and immature in writing. Everything went a little too easy for the most part and the solutions to the "problems" felt a little too simplistic.
I think if they took the sex out of this book (not much), then it would make a better YA novel.
Okay, so this book wasn't bad per say, just underdeveloped and immature in writing. Everything went a little too easy for the most part and the solutions to the "problems" felt a little too simplistic.
I think if they took the sex out of this book (not much), then it would make a better YA novel.
October 14, 2010
OMG it's one of the most tearjerker story I ever read!
Quick story overview
Of course you read the book summary and got (also by the name) that it's a paranormal romance involving vampires.
Well, you are wrong... it's much more...
. There are vampires, werewolves, witches, hunters... but forget about that! This book is about true love, that never die and will never fade!! The paranormal aspect will leave you just more curious, but the spotlight is in the LOVE that the two men share!
The book is all in just one point of view, but believe me, it's enough. Zack will tell you about this huge love of his live, his childhood friend Noah. They got apart when both were 18 old, and after three years of doubts and sadness Zack will see Noah again. Now both are 21, and both know that regardless all problems and dangers they love each other... and can't live without the other.
It's a paranormal-romantic story...
Hell, yeah, and the bed scenes are also incredible hot! I'll not spoil telling you who is a vampire, or a witch, or a werewolf, or a hunter... no... the fun was discover page by page new paranormal creatures, and I'll not take that from you.
But just to be very precise I must say is also a mysterious book, full of action. You will never be bored, or stop reading.
My only criticism could be the lack of the Zack family description. It's a huge void in this story, but we must think Zack, the storyteller, is mesmerized rediscovering his lovings feelings. So I forgive all the doubts I still have. Honestly, who would talk about parents or sister telling a story of how much he/she love another person? Yeah... no one... I would also talk only about love, and my lover, being the narrator of this book. So, in my view, is perfect how this book was written.
Do I think you should read it?
Absolutely YES. The love between Jack and Noah is so strong that will reach you, and fill your heart with warm and good feelings. You will cheer for them, and will cry too. There is a happy ending (HEA) or a happy for now end (HFN)? Well, HEA or HFN is not that important. I appreciated each page of this book, and I guarantee that when you arrive at the last page you will be so happy for them that is not important if it's a HEA or HFN... that kind of love is endless.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart to M.J. O'Shea for this lovely book
It was my first book of this writer, and certainly I will search for more!
5 stars, without doubt deserve my maximum vote.
Quick story overview
Of course you read the book summary and got (also by the name) that it's a paranormal romance involving vampires.
Well, you are wrong... it's much more...
. There are vampires, werewolves, witches, hunters... but forget about that! This book is about true love, that never die and will never fade!! The paranormal aspect will leave you just more curious, but the spotlight is in the LOVE that the two men share! The book is all in just one point of view, but believe me, it's enough. Zack will tell you about this huge love of his live, his childhood friend Noah. They got apart when both were 18 old, and after three years of doubts and sadness Zack will see Noah again. Now both are 21, and both know that regardless all problems and dangers they love each other... and can't live without the other.
It's a paranormal-romantic story...
Hell, yeah, and the bed scenes are also incredible hot! I'll not spoil telling you who is a vampire, or a witch, or a werewolf, or a hunter... no... the fun was discover page by page new paranormal creatures, and I'll not take that from you.
But just to be very precise I must say is also a mysterious book, full of action. You will never be bored, or stop reading.
My only criticism could be the lack of the Zack family description. It's a huge void in this story, but we must think Zack, the storyteller, is mesmerized rediscovering his lovings feelings. So I forgive all the doubts I still have. Honestly, who would talk about parents or sister telling a story of how much he/she love another person? Yeah... no one... I would also talk only about love, and my lover, being the narrator of this book. So, in my view, is perfect how this book was written.
Do I think you should read it?
Absolutely YES. The love between Jack and Noah is so strong that will reach you, and fill your heart with warm and good feelings. You will cheer for them, and will cry too. There is a happy ending (HEA) or a happy for now end (HFN)? Well, HEA or HFN is not that important. I appreciated each page of this book, and I guarantee that when you arrive at the last page you will be so happy for them that is not important if it's a HEA or HFN... that kind of love is endless.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart to M.J. O'Shea for this lovely book
It was my first book of this writer, and certainly I will search for more!
5 stars, without doubt deserve my maximum vote.
July 29, 2016
**2.5 stars**
I have to say, I'm a disappointed in this one. I'm a big fan of M.J.'s writing, and so I was expecting a lot from this book. However, it fell flat for me in a lot of ways.
This is a cute book, with little angst and an interesting premise. I was very excited about this idea of young lovers reuniting with a secret between them and where that would lead. However, it lead down a very predictable and unrealistic path.
My main problem was the way that Zach acted in this book. In the beginning, he seems very close to his family and extremely close to his younger sister, which makes his actions later in the book baffling. Why doesn't he seem to consider his family at all in his decision making?? He makes this life-altering choice with very little thought- What about school? What about his relatives? It made no sense. This book skimmed over so much and made light of things that needed a much darker, contemplative tone. Also, the way that Noah's relatives acted was ridiculous. One minute they hated him and the next, most were on his side. And the whole world felt underdeveloped for me. I wanted more details, more world-building.
Overall, the story felt juvenile to me, and not because it was YA. The writing felt juvenile and underdeveloped. I think this book isn't a good indicator of M.J. O'Shea's skills, because I know she is a fabulous author who has many books on my favorites list. This one isn't one of them.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I have to say, I'm a disappointed in this one. I'm a big fan of M.J.'s writing, and so I was expecting a lot from this book. However, it fell flat for me in a lot of ways.
This is a cute book, with little angst and an interesting premise. I was very excited about this idea of young lovers reuniting with a secret between them and where that would lead. However, it lead down a very predictable and unrealistic path.
My main problem was the way that Zach acted in this book. In the beginning, he seems very close to his family and extremely close to his younger sister, which makes his actions later in the book baffling. Why doesn't he seem to consider his family at all in his decision making?? He makes this life-altering choice with very little thought- What about school? What about his relatives? It made no sense. This book skimmed over so much and made light of things that needed a much darker, contemplative tone. Also, the way that Noah's relatives acted was ridiculous. One minute they hated him and the next, most were on his side. And the whole world felt underdeveloped for me. I wanted more details, more world-building.
Overall, the story felt juvenile to me, and not because it was YA. The writing felt juvenile and underdeveloped. I think this book isn't a good indicator of M.J. O'Shea's skills, because I know she is a fabulous author who has many books on my favorites list. This one isn't one of them.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 18, 2016
This started really strong and skidded into the finish line.
Zack has turned emo since his best friend Noah broke his heart the previous summer. Nevertheless his family makes a yearly sojourn to Harper Lake and even though he's 18 now he decides to spend one last summer at Harper Lake for his little sister Maya even though it brings up all sorts of Sadtown feels.
He revisits the dock where they shared their one epic kiss night after night wondering what went wrong and hoping Noah will magically reappear. Really it was only, like, 3 days but this is teen angst we're talking about here. 3 days in teen years is an ETERNITY! Then Noah actually does show up and all is forgiven. Because love.
First love.
These two have been best friends since they were five and both of them knew but were too scared to admit their feelings for fear of losing the other. After their fateful night something bad happened and Noah had to let Zack go.
Then something worse happened! But it paved the way for him to get together with Zack if he'll forgive him. And if he's the understanding sort...
I won't give away the secret but I will say I thought the reveal could've used more drama and angst. Zack, for all intents and purposes, takes it in stride. The events that transpired afterwards were a mixed bag. Some I found exciting and others boring. A lot of secondary characters are introduced probably because this is book one of a series, but I thought overall the narrative suffered for it. I wanted more focus on the MCs.
My primary quibble is the lack of angst through all the adventures and changes. The angst is why I read YA. But I think O'Shea did a fantastic job of capturing the teen essence. Both of them are impulsive, a bit reckless, slightly arrogant and think any and all adults are dumber than dirt who couldn't possibly un-der-stand. I remember being like that. The dialogue captures that authenticity as well.
The adventure was a bit outlandish and grew tiresome to me.
What I liked best was the showing of Noah and Zack's feelings toward each other. It is almost saccharine oftentimes, but I also felt this was authentic and relatable. There isn't a doubt in my mind that these two are gaga over each other.
They also really like to get they freak on and I am not mad about that. At all.
Recommend for YA and PNR fans or those wishing to reminisce about their own teen times.
A copy was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Zack has turned emo since his best friend Noah broke his heart the previous summer. Nevertheless his family makes a yearly sojourn to Harper Lake and even though he's 18 now he decides to spend one last summer at Harper Lake for his little sister Maya even though it brings up all sorts of Sadtown feels.
He revisits the dock where they shared their one epic kiss night after night wondering what went wrong and hoping Noah will magically reappear. Really it was only, like, 3 days but this is teen angst we're talking about here. 3 days in teen years is an ETERNITY! Then Noah actually does show up and all is forgiven. Because love.
First love.
These two have been best friends since they were five and both of them knew but were too scared to admit their feelings for fear of losing the other. After their fateful night something bad happened and Noah had to let Zack go.
Then something worse happened! But it paved the way for him to get together with Zack if he'll forgive him. And if he's the understanding sort...
I won't give away the secret but I will say I thought the reveal could've used more drama and angst. Zack, for all intents and purposes, takes it in stride. The events that transpired afterwards were a mixed bag. Some I found exciting and others boring. A lot of secondary characters are introduced probably because this is book one of a series, but I thought overall the narrative suffered for it. I wanted more focus on the MCs.
My primary quibble is the lack of angst through all the adventures and changes. The angst is why I read YA. But I think O'Shea did a fantastic job of capturing the teen essence. Both of them are impulsive, a bit reckless, slightly arrogant and think any and all adults are dumber than dirt who couldn't possibly un-der-stand. I remember being like that. The dialogue captures that authenticity as well.
The adventure was a bit outlandish and grew tiresome to me.
What I liked best was the showing of Noah and Zack's feelings toward each other. It is almost saccharine oftentimes, but I also felt this was authentic and relatable. There isn't a doubt in my mind that these two are gaga over each other.
They also really like to get they freak on and I am not mad about that. At all.
Recommend for YA and PNR fans or those wishing to reminisce about their own teen times.
A copy was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2023
DNF at 13%
i found this to be incredibly shallow on all counts. i didnt make it far, but it was consistent in its blandness
• the MC is extremely emo boy dramatique about his breakup or whatever, but it's all tell and no show. like maybe write in a journal or something dude, it sounds like youre in love with the idea of being in love
• the emotions in general - this all consuming grand passion was....nothing
• despite the MC being so extra, the conflict was resolved in like a sentence. ok, you were super in love with this childhood friend of yours and you kissed and then the next day he was like 'i h8 u go away forever' and you meet for five seconds three years later and its all hunky dory? i dont think so
• fourth wall breaking. stop it. don't talk to me. shut up
• just....zero stakes! i guess this is me saying the same thing for the third time, but nothing means anything in this book. all conflict resolved immediately. sure there's some dumb probably-vampire secret hanging out, but i'm sure that'll be a total nothing too.
overall, this was just a shell of a shell of a book. no stakes, no depth, no feels....aint got time for that
i found this to be incredibly shallow on all counts. i didnt make it far, but it was consistent in its blandness
• the MC is extremely emo boy dramatique about his breakup or whatever, but it's all tell and no show. like maybe write in a journal or something dude, it sounds like youre in love with the idea of being in love
• the emotions in general - this all consuming grand passion was....nothing
• despite the MC being so extra, the conflict was resolved in like a sentence. ok, you were super in love with this childhood friend of yours and you kissed and then the next day he was like 'i h8 u go away forever' and you meet for five seconds three years later and its all hunky dory? i dont think so
• fourth wall breaking. stop it. don't talk to me. shut up
• just....zero stakes! i guess this is me saying the same thing for the third time, but nothing means anything in this book. all conflict resolved immediately. sure there's some dumb probably-vampire secret hanging out, but i'm sure that'll be a total nothing too.
overall, this was just a shell of a shell of a book. no stakes, no depth, no feels....aint got time for that
May 7, 2011
^^PPFFFT BLOOD MOON MY ASS!^^
Blood Moon started out real interesting for me. It had a bit of mystery, sounded dark and sexy, and our main character was pining for his best friend. Therefore, I was really enjoying it, until it became a mush fest wrapped in more mush fest.
With a title like that, I was expecting blood, sex, and hot vampire action. I felt like I was reading about teenagers getting it on for the first time. Zach is back at the family cabin for his vacation, a place he would rather avoid. It brings back memories of his best friend, who was his first love and all that. One night of a hot kiss, and feelings confession he thought he would have spent the rest of his life with his best friend, and then he ups and disappear. Crushed by Noah’s rejection, the memories at the lake aren’t so good anymore. Well this year at the cabin is different, Noah is back and he wants to pick up right where they left off.
It seems that Noah is a vampire hunter (doesn’t it just sound exciting), and a stakeout gone badly leads to the death of his parents, and Noah becoming a vampire. His family is known for their vampire hunting skills, and they kill without asking questions. Imagine if they found out that one of their own was a monster, it would be lights out for Noah. So he hides until he can’t hide anymore, he can’t forget Zach and so this year he must have him.
What happens later is quite predictable. It’s all “I am a vampire but I love you don’t be afraid”, “I will be afraid for five minutes but I love you anyways so I can accept that you are undead”. Sex, lots of talking to get to know each other followed by sex, and meeting all the other things that go bump in the night. Throw in some family drama, a not so shocking moment and vampire turning that you saw coming and you have Blood Moon.
I really expected more angst from this book, I guess it was a romantic story, but I found the writing quite juvenile. I just felt like all the things that could have happened; did. I wanted more excitement, and I really wanted to like Noah and Zach a lot more, I just felt like they were the same character but with different names. I will read the second book in this series and am hoping it’s a lot better.
Blood Moon started out real interesting for me. It had a bit of mystery, sounded dark and sexy, and our main character was pining for his best friend. Therefore, I was really enjoying it, until it became a mush fest wrapped in more mush fest.
With a title like that, I was expecting blood, sex, and hot vampire action. I felt like I was reading about teenagers getting it on for the first time. Zach is back at the family cabin for his vacation, a place he would rather avoid. It brings back memories of his best friend, who was his first love and all that. One night of a hot kiss, and feelings confession he thought he would have spent the rest of his life with his best friend, and then he ups and disappear. Crushed by Noah’s rejection, the memories at the lake aren’t so good anymore. Well this year at the cabin is different, Noah is back and he wants to pick up right where they left off.
It seems that Noah is a vampire hunter (doesn’t it just sound exciting), and a stakeout gone badly leads to the death of his parents, and Noah becoming a vampire. His family is known for their vampire hunting skills, and they kill without asking questions. Imagine if they found out that one of their own was a monster, it would be lights out for Noah. So he hides until he can’t hide anymore, he can’t forget Zach and so this year he must have him.
What happens later is quite predictable. It’s all “I am a vampire but I love you don’t be afraid”, “I will be afraid for five minutes but I love you anyways so I can accept that you are undead”. Sex, lots of talking to get to know each other followed by sex, and meeting all the other things that go bump in the night. Throw in some family drama, a not so shocking moment and vampire turning that you saw coming and you have Blood Moon.
I really expected more angst from this book, I guess it was a romantic story, but I found the writing quite juvenile. I just felt like all the things that could have happened; did. I wanted more excitement, and I really wanted to like Noah and Zach a lot more, I just felt like they were the same character but with different names. I will read the second book in this series and am hoping it’s a lot better.
March 30, 2021
Not my favorite book by M. J. O’Shea. I agree with other reviewers that this book seems juvenile. I just didn’t feel much connection with either Zack or Noah. I’m not a particular fan of vampire books, but I enjoy one with enticing characters and an interesting plot. I’m not big on vampire hunters at all and would have never started this book if I knew that’s what it was about.
March 3, 2011
4.5 stars
I really liked this one. It was sweet the way Zack and Noah loved each other at such a young age and still loved each other even after 3 years of being separated all because Noah was trying to protect Zack from the danger associated with being with a Harper.
I loved Zack. The story is solely in his POV (first person) so we get a good idea about all the emotions and thoughts he had. I especially liked the way Zack's reaction to Noah being a vampire wasn't easily accepted. He freaked out and didn't believe Noah. He needed Noah to prove it to him but only after he ran from Noah. Of course, Noah was hurt but it was just so sweet how he tried to keep Zack from learning about all the supernatural stuff years ago only to be in basically the same spot when they reunited. I was kind of prepared to hate Noah because of him hurting Zack when they were young but it wasn't possible for me to not like him especially after learning he did it all because of his love for Zack. He's considerate, sweet and kind. He always has Zack's well-being in his mind first and I really liked that.
It was nice seeing Noah and Zack reconnect at the place where Noah broke it off and I liked the whole friends to lovers theme. I was hooked on the story. We not only see their relationship start anew but we see them have to deal rogue vampires that killed Noah's parents, whether or not Zack should be a vampire and having to deal with Noah's family's biased opinion on vampires. I really loved it.
As much as I loved the book, it started to drag slightly towards the end. Not enough to roll my eyes and wish it would end already or to even ruin my enjoyment of it but enough for me to notice.
All in all, this was a great book. I'm looking forward to the sequel, Hunter's Moon and seeing PC get a happy ending. Definitely recommended. :D
I really liked this one. It was sweet the way Zack and Noah loved each other at such a young age and still loved each other even after 3 years of being separated all because Noah was trying to protect Zack from the danger associated with being with a Harper.
I loved Zack. The story is solely in his POV (first person) so we get a good idea about all the emotions and thoughts he had. I especially liked the way Zack's reaction to Noah being a vampire wasn't easily accepted. He freaked out and didn't believe Noah. He needed Noah to prove it to him but only after he ran from Noah. Of course, Noah was hurt but it was just so sweet how he tried to keep Zack from learning about all the supernatural stuff years ago only to be in basically the same spot when they reunited. I was kind of prepared to hate Noah because of him hurting Zack when they were young but it wasn't possible for me to not like him especially after learning he did it all because of his love for Zack. He's considerate, sweet and kind. He always has Zack's well-being in his mind first and I really liked that.
It was nice seeing Noah and Zack reconnect at the place where Noah broke it off and I liked the whole friends to lovers theme. I was hooked on the story. We not only see their relationship start anew but we see them have to deal rogue vampires that killed Noah's parents, whether or not Zack should be a vampire and having to deal with Noah's family's biased opinion on vampires. I really loved it.
As much as I loved the book, it started to drag slightly towards the end. Not enough to roll my eyes and wish it would end already or to even ruin my enjoyment of it but enough for me to notice.
All in all, this was a great book. I'm looking forward to the sequel, Hunter's Moon and seeing PC get a happy ending. Definitely recommended. :D
November 6, 2010
2.5 stars
I'm always game for a new vampire book, so when I saw this one with its lovely cover art, I grabbed it up right away. Too bad it didn't really turn out to be as awesome as I hoped. Don't get me wrong - it wasn't "bad" by any means, but I'd definitely put it squarely in the "ho-hum" category.
The issue? Well, the writing, technically speaking, was decent, but the plotline was just a little too predictable and lacking in conflict to be believable. Simply put, everything was just way too easy. Any potential point of conflict was glossed over, no problems whatsoever. Finding out your true love who ditched you 3 years ago is a vampire? No biggie. Meanie vampire-hunters on your trail? Whatever. Need to rescue someone from the depths of a vampire-hunter's compound? 5 minutes, no problem. Basically I'm just trying to say that every opportunity for conflict or hardship, every situation that could have done with a little suspense, was just sort of...glossed over. Too easy.
Bottom Line: Lacking in conflict and originality, so came across as a bit dull for me. However, I think many people would probably enjoy it well enough, if looking for a light, easy read of the paranormal variety.
I'm always game for a new vampire book, so when I saw this one with its lovely cover art, I grabbed it up right away. Too bad it didn't really turn out to be as awesome as I hoped. Don't get me wrong - it wasn't "bad" by any means, but I'd definitely put it squarely in the "ho-hum" category.
The issue? Well, the writing, technically speaking, was decent, but the plotline was just a little too predictable and lacking in conflict to be believable. Simply put, everything was just way too easy. Any potential point of conflict was glossed over, no problems whatsoever. Finding out your true love who ditched you 3 years ago is a vampire? No biggie. Meanie vampire-hunters on your trail? Whatever. Need to rescue someone from the depths of a vampire-hunter's compound? 5 minutes, no problem. Basically I'm just trying to say that every opportunity for conflict or hardship, every situation that could have done with a little suspense, was just sort of...glossed over. Too easy.
Bottom Line: Lacking in conflict and originality, so came across as a bit dull for me. However, I think many people would probably enjoy it well enough, if looking for a light, easy read of the paranormal variety.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2016
Zack's family drags him back to the lake house for one final summer before he starts university even though it's the last thing he wants and certainly the last place he wants to be. The lake house is where he's had his happiest times and memories with his best friend Noah and it's where, last year, Noah shattered his heart after a fabulous kiss.
But when Zack returns this time it's different because Noah is there waiting for him, ready to pursue their relationship, and has some serious secrets to come clean about. There's vampires, werewolves, witches, hunters...I don't want to write anything else because it would give too much away.
The story itself is predictable and a bit juvenile, but it's got some sweet and romantic moments. It's all about the whole "true love never dies and conquers all" kind of romance. The sugary sweetness is mitigated by (and I was pleasantly surprised about this) quite a few sex scenes, though O'Shea never goes over the top with the action.
Michael Stellman delivers a solid performance without doing anything to really make or break the story.
Bottom line: A bit juvenile, but enjoyable.
Copy generously provided by Harmony Ink Press in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
June 27, 2016
I have had this book on my wish list when it was still in it's first edition. I loved the idea of a young adult paranormal reunion romance and I already adored the author's writing. However, it took a while for me to get around to it and now the book is in it's third edition. On a side note, I adore the new more whimsical cover that matches this light, coming of age story.
The story opens when Zack Parker returns to the lake for a summer vacation with his family like they do every year. Only this year, he returns reluctantly. The place is painful and full of memories for him. He met his best friend Noah here each summer and they had both looked forward to Zack's return since they were five years old. Zack had fallen in love with his best friend, but after one shared kiss when it appeared Noah returned his feelings, Noah pushed him away the next day and broke off all contact with no explanation.
The return was as painful as the year trying to get over Noah had been, but now, in the dead of night, sitting on the dock which was their shared favorite place on the lake is Noah. Zack wants to pull back and be angry, but he is equally hopeful and a little happy. Noah wants a redo and Zack's forgiveness. Zack wants an explanation.
Noah gives him the clean-up explanation and then later the harder and more shocking version. Zack doesn't want to believe, but then is forced to when Noah easily proves to him the truth. Unfortunately, Noah's new situation is a dangerous one. Zack is determined that the pair will be together no matter what. The guys are equally determined to have each other's backs and it may come to that. Now, that Zack has Noah back, it will all be alright, won't it?
Alright. This is about two young guys who grew up best friends, got a little lost and now on the verge of college have found each other again and are tighter than ever as a result. Noah has secrets and his secrets are life-altering and dangerous. This plunges them on a new adventure and they have new choices to make.
For all that happens, this is a lightly developed, extremely low-angst story. There is enough to hold interest and gather up the 'ahs' and 'swoons', but it also has a distance when it comes to the moments that could have been darker and grittier. There are conflicts, but they are not allowed to go deep or very long.
I was definitely in the right mood for it and loved it, but I did have one niggle. The ending didn't cover all the factors that result from what happened. I would have liked to see what came of how their new situation affected Zack's relationship with his family and a bit of what it meant down the road a bit. Now this is a series so I guess it's possible that they will appear in other books and their story gets the more complete finish, but I would have liked it in this book. I'll definitely continue with the series to see where things go in the authors world of witches, werewolves, and vampires hidden amongst the humans.
All in all, this was a sweet yet slightly spicy borderline young adult/new adult m/m paranormal romance that I can recommend to readers who want something easy and light.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens when Zack Parker returns to the lake for a summer vacation with his family like they do every year. Only this year, he returns reluctantly. The place is painful and full of memories for him. He met his best friend Noah here each summer and they had both looked forward to Zack's return since they were five years old. Zack had fallen in love with his best friend, but after one shared kiss when it appeared Noah returned his feelings, Noah pushed him away the next day and broke off all contact with no explanation.
The return was as painful as the year trying to get over Noah had been, but now, in the dead of night, sitting on the dock which was their shared favorite place on the lake is Noah. Zack wants to pull back and be angry, but he is equally hopeful and a little happy. Noah wants a redo and Zack's forgiveness. Zack wants an explanation.
Noah gives him the clean-up explanation and then later the harder and more shocking version. Zack doesn't want to believe, but then is forced to when Noah easily proves to him the truth. Unfortunately, Noah's new situation is a dangerous one. Zack is determined that the pair will be together no matter what. The guys are equally determined to have each other's backs and it may come to that. Now, that Zack has Noah back, it will all be alright, won't it?
Alright. This is about two young guys who grew up best friends, got a little lost and now on the verge of college have found each other again and are tighter than ever as a result. Noah has secrets and his secrets are life-altering and dangerous. This plunges them on a new adventure and they have new choices to make.
For all that happens, this is a lightly developed, extremely low-angst story. There is enough to hold interest and gather up the 'ahs' and 'swoons', but it also has a distance when it comes to the moments that could have been darker and grittier. There are conflicts, but they are not allowed to go deep or very long.
I was definitely in the right mood for it and loved it, but I did have one niggle. The ending didn't cover all the factors that result from what happened. I would have liked to see what came of how their new situation affected Zack's relationship with his family and a bit of what it meant down the road a bit. Now this is a series so I guess it's possible that they will appear in other books and their story gets the more complete finish, but I would have liked it in this book. I'll definitely continue with the series to see where things go in the authors world of witches, werewolves, and vampires hidden amongst the humans.
All in all, this was a sweet yet slightly spicy borderline young adult/new adult m/m paranormal romance that I can recommend to readers who want something easy and light.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2010
01/18/13: Revised rating after a couple of years of reading m/m: from 4.5 to 3.5.
The first thing that one has to say about this book is that it tells a sweet love story. I liked reading how Zack (the first person narrator) and Noah met when they were little children and how they grew up discovering that they loved each other. Then they had to separate because of family issues and, at the beginning of the book, they reunite and they discover that their love was not lost and is still as strong as it were before.
Just this and their relationship is enough to make this a wonderful story. Then there's the paranormal flavor: Noah comes from a family that hunts supernatural creatures and he's just been turned a vampire. This part is, in my opinion, less special, less satisfying than the romance, even if it's still good. The pages that contain the love story between Zack and Noah are more lyrical and incredibly hot (and here the paranormal element is really functional to the story).
I found that the secondary character were not as good, even if they were fascinating, but maybe it was that there wasn't enough time to develop them. The world M.J. O'Shea's has created is full of different creatures (the most interesting is probably PC, the lycan). I also think that the interaction between humans and non-humans promises new and intriguing developments.
The fact that the action was good but not really memorable detracts something from my rating, but the emotional part is incredibly compelling and you feel you have to know what happens and to know what difficulties the protagonists are going to face.
Noah and Zack are a memorable couple and I'm definitely going to read the sequel, Hunter's Moon.
The first thing that one has to say about this book is that it tells a sweet love story. I liked reading how Zack (the first person narrator) and Noah met when they were little children and how they grew up discovering that they loved each other. Then they had to separate because of family issues and, at the beginning of the book, they reunite and they discover that their love was not lost and is still as strong as it were before.
Just this and their relationship is enough to make this a wonderful story. Then there's the paranormal flavor: Noah comes from a family that hunts supernatural creatures and he's just been turned a vampire. This part is, in my opinion, less special, less satisfying than the romance, even if it's still good. The pages that contain the love story between Zack and Noah are more lyrical and incredibly hot (and here the paranormal element is really functional to the story).
I found that the secondary character were not as good, even if they were fascinating, but maybe it was that there wasn't enough time to develop them. The world M.J. O'Shea's has created is full of different creatures (the most interesting is probably PC, the lycan). I also think that the interaction between humans and non-humans promises new and intriguing developments.
The fact that the action was good but not really memorable detracts something from my rating, but the emotional part is incredibly compelling and you feel you have to know what happens and to know what difficulties the protagonists are going to face.
Noah and Zack are a memorable couple and I'm definitely going to read the sequel, Hunter's Moon.
October 28, 2010
What a work of art and I'm not talking about the cover! I adored this story and fell in love with Zack and Noah. The reason for their initial separation became an interesting development in the overall story - and it was really good!
I gravitate toward books that have strong character development and thoroughly enjoy when a loving relationship is very evident. This book was outstanding on both of those points. I was extremely moved by the emotion and hotness that jumped off the pages. I can't remember getting so turned on by reading about simple kissing and touching, but OMG, M.J. made those simple acts something that took my breath away - WOW!!
Two issues that usually detract from my enjoyment of a book are repeated spelling/grammar problems and stories told in first person by one of the characters. Both of these items were present in this book, but for once, the wonderful attributes were so powerful that it didn't matter, and I couldn't give anything less than 5 stars for this review.
This was the first book I've read by this author. Frankly, I'm so enamored after just this one book, that I will be rushing to devour more and I highly recommend the same for anyone else. Thanks to M.J. for bringing us this truly spectacular story!!!
I gravitate toward books that have strong character development and thoroughly enjoy when a loving relationship is very evident. This book was outstanding on both of those points. I was extremely moved by the emotion and hotness that jumped off the pages. I can't remember getting so turned on by reading about simple kissing and touching, but OMG, M.J. made those simple acts something that took my breath away - WOW!!
Two issues that usually detract from my enjoyment of a book are repeated spelling/grammar problems and stories told in first person by one of the characters. Both of these items were present in this book, but for once, the wonderful attributes were so powerful that it didn't matter, and I couldn't give anything less than 5 stars for this review.
This was the first book I've read by this author. Frankly, I'm so enamored after just this one book, that I will be rushing to devour more and I highly recommend the same for anyone else. Thanks to M.J. for bringing us this truly spectacular story!!!
March 21, 2011
Once again a warning this is man/man romance so if that isn't your thing I can't recommend this book, but if it is give M. J. O'shea a chance. I actually read Blood Moon and Hunter's Moon out of order but I don't think that matters, either book can stand on its own. Blood Moon does take place before Hunter's Moon and features many of the same characters, but I wasn't totally lost when I read Hunter's Moon. It was fun figuring out the relationship between Noah and Zack. Once again this a book with more than just a typical romance, though maybe more romance and less paranormal than Hunter's Moon. There was also possibly a bit more action for those of you who read for the erotic scenes. This book did not disappoint. I am a fan of vampires and these boys were possibly the most fun "unwitting" and "unprepared" vampires I've ever met. Again I found myself laughing out loud at some of the lines. There was less development of the secondary characters than in Hunter's Moon but over all this was a wonderful book. What can I say, I am a fan.
September 20, 2014
♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥ BEAUTIFUL♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥
#engrossing, #most endearing characters, #emotionally satisfying, #adorable overload, #favorite couple and most definitely #forever-favorites !
----
I just wonder....
#engrossing, #most endearing characters, #emotionally satisfying, #adorable overload, #favorite couple and most definitely #forever-favorites !
----
I just wonder....
July 16, 2017
This edition seems to be better formatted and some details were slightly changed, but noting that drastically changes the story (though I couldn't figure out if Zach was just out of high school or first year in college or what - at the beginning it says he's been three months in college, later on it says he's the TA, and I thought TAs are supposed to be in a higher year? And then he and Noah are the same age but they celebrated Noah's eighteenth birthday... whatever)
In any case, this was a fun bit of fluff I unfortunately wasn't in the mood for (hence the nitpicking).
If you're on the lookout for a book that's kind of fun, extremely fluffy and it doesn't make you think too much, this is the book for you.
In any case, this was a fun bit of fluff I unfortunately wasn't in the mood for (hence the nitpicking).
If you're on the lookout for a book that's kind of fun, extremely fluffy and it doesn't make you think too much, this is the book for you.
October 18, 2010
At first, I thought I would come away from this book loving Ethan, but it was Noah who captured my heart. Ethan and Noah have known one another since they were 5 years old. After finally getting what Ethan wants most in the world (a kiss from Noah) Noah pushes Ethan away. Three years later, Ethan still wonders about his best friend and love. Meeting up again, Ethan learns of the dark secret Noah is forced to keep.
MJ O'Shea has a way of writing characters that you want to get to know more about. The vampire world created in this series mixed with shifters and tons of excitement and sex is not only HOT but worth the read.
MJ O'Shea has a way of writing characters that you want to get to know more about. The vampire world created in this series mixed with shifters and tons of excitement and sex is not only HOT but worth the read.
March 24, 2012
I really liked this book. There was little to no angst in it and it was a very light-hearted, easy read. The drama/angst that did occur did not drag on in the book. Zack and Noah were so completely in love with each other, which was so refreshing. There was no doubt, no worry; just love and utter belief there would be a HEA. I would have loved a couple more chapters just to get a bit more glimpse into how Zack and his family would react/interact after all that has happened. I know there are other books after this and I am looking forward to reading them. I just wish I had a little more Zack/Noah dynamics that may not necessarily be explained in PC's book.
May 24, 2012
3.5*
This was a fun quick read, but not quite what I was expecting. I'll read the second one and see what happens! :)
This was a fun quick read, but not quite what I was expecting. I'll read the second one and see what happens! :)
December 7, 2010
Довольно беспомощная книжечка правампирофф и вечную любофф. Читать можно, если уж совсем-совсем нечего делать.
November 11, 2013
Review of the newer edition here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Read
May 12, 2017DNF @ 30% No rating
June 28, 2021
Sort of a typical Vampire story with blood, fangs, feeding and of course hot boyfriends. Additionally we have lycans, were-wolves and hunters adding spice to the story. Good for one time read.
October 12, 2013
This story had so much potential.
One of the standard tropes in the m/m genre is the coming out narrative. What is the experience of the closet? How does it shape, and constantly re-shape, a person's identity? How does the experience of living a lie undermine the ability to live a fully-realized life? To what degree does the isolation of the experience blind its occupants to the possibility that loved ones will accept the truth of who they are?
Shifter/vampire stories are probably so popular in this genre, in part, because -- done well -- they allow the author to explore the dynamics of the emerging-identity story without having to focus directly on the well-trod ground of "Being Gay." (At least some of them do.) Sexuality isn't necessarily the problem in a number of these stories; it is the revelation of one's status as a paranormal being that provides the source of the drama. Granted, these stories don't always operate on the level of metaphor -- sometimes, a magical being is just a magical being -- but it's probably fun to play with the idea of acceptance when the point in contention is not sexuality, but a character's sudden desire to drink blood, or uncontrollable need to transform into a demon, etc. The rest of the world is being asked to accept that the person they knew still exists at the core, and further, that the person is worthy of love as he is.
And this is where Blood Moon fell short. It was wonderful as a story of reunited young lovers who had inexplicably been parted. Zack Parker and Noah Harper had been friends since they were 5 years old, had fallen in love with each other as teenagers, and figured it out when they were 18, but Noah's parents broke them up for reasons that Zack did not understand, breaking both of their hearts. When they came back together three years later, you could feel the depth of the love and the gratitude that they felt -- neither one could believe that the other one was there, that the love was still real, and the relationship they wanted was right in front of them.
Unfortunately, the action portion of the novel which followed was both far too long and very unsatisfying because the author extended the wrong scenes, cut short the right scenes, and eliminated altogether things we should have had the opportunity to see. There was a key confrontation that took place off of the page and was resolved in an anti-climactic fashion; in addition, there was another important fight that was addressed much too quickly and easily. Finally, insofar as my comments above are concerned -- the narrative possibilities that the author could have explored in developing the relationship between the magical world and the non-magical world -- she resolved it a quick "of course" moment that was curiously flat. Perhaps this was a non-cliched choice, but surely there was a more satisfying way to handle the non-cliched approach? I don't know. In any event, it was a fine book that could have been a lot better.
One of the standard tropes in the m/m genre is the coming out narrative. What is the experience of the closet? How does it shape, and constantly re-shape, a person's identity? How does the experience of living a lie undermine the ability to live a fully-realized life? To what degree does the isolation of the experience blind its occupants to the possibility that loved ones will accept the truth of who they are?
Shifter/vampire stories are probably so popular in this genre, in part, because -- done well -- they allow the author to explore the dynamics of the emerging-identity story without having to focus directly on the well-trod ground of "Being Gay." (At least some of them do.) Sexuality isn't necessarily the problem in a number of these stories; it is the revelation of one's status as a paranormal being that provides the source of the drama. Granted, these stories don't always operate on the level of metaphor -- sometimes, a magical being is just a magical being -- but it's probably fun to play with the idea of acceptance when the point in contention is not sexuality, but a character's sudden desire to drink blood, or uncontrollable need to transform into a demon, etc. The rest of the world is being asked to accept that the person they knew still exists at the core, and further, that the person is worthy of love as he is.
And this is where Blood Moon fell short. It was wonderful as a story of reunited young lovers who had inexplicably been parted. Zack Parker and Noah Harper had been friends since they were 5 years old, had fallen in love with each other as teenagers, and figured it out when they were 18, but Noah's parents broke them up for reasons that Zack did not understand, breaking both of their hearts. When they came back together three years later, you could feel the depth of the love and the gratitude that they felt -- neither one could believe that the other one was there, that the love was still real, and the relationship they wanted was right in front of them.
Unfortunately, the action portion of the novel which followed was both far too long and very unsatisfying because the author extended the wrong scenes, cut short the right scenes, and eliminated altogether things we should have had the opportunity to see. There was a key confrontation that took place off of the page and was resolved in an anti-climactic fashion; in addition, there was another important fight that was addressed much too quickly and easily. Finally, insofar as my comments above are concerned -- the narrative possibilities that the author could have explored in developing the relationship between the magical world and the non-magical world -- she resolved it a quick "of course" moment that was curiously flat. Perhaps this was a non-cliched choice, but surely there was a more satisfying way to handle the non-cliched approach? I don't know. In any event, it was a fine book that could have been a lot better.
Read
August 11, 2010Blood Moon is the second book I read by this author, and where the previous one was a coming of age story about two high school students, this is a “trendy” vampire romance. I use the word “trendy” since I think it follows a bit the today love among teenagers for young vampires and werewolves, see the Twilight saga and related.
Noah and Zack, the two heroes in this romance, are maybe a little older, 21 years old, but they are not much more adult. Zack is still spending most of his free time with his family and he was not able to break the umbilical cord with his mother; maybe he was traumatized when he “lost” his best friend, and love of his life, at 18 years old: he grew up with Noah, and as soon as he moved from being a child to being a young adult, he associated love, and sex, with Noah. But as he is not independent now, he was not precocious then, and so he was 18 years old at the time he found the courage to kiss his best friend. And one kiss was everything he got since the morning after Noah told him it was better they never seen each other again. Now three years later, Zack is still “mourning” the loss.
When Noah suddenly reappears in his life, even if he is not exactly the same as before, Zack doesn’t see the reason to send him away: three years are a long time, and Zack understood that he is no able to forget him. And then vampires are trendy, as I said before, and if they are also independently wealthy and with a good fashion instinct, well, they make also a good boyfriend.
If the feeling is that Zack and Noah’s life together is not exactly dangerous, even if they try to convince the reader it’s not like that, well, I think you are right; in a perfect “teenager” video game perspective, life is a forever, and death is not a game over, but merely a stop here and start from beginning. Nothing really bad happens, and real confrontation is always delayed. Everyone is beautiful and sexy and ordinary concerns, like how you will explain to your mother that you will be never more able to join her on Sunday lunch, or that you can’t attend daily courses at college, are something you will face later, always later.
In Zack and Noah’s new world, everyone is young, and also your enemy is handsome. There is no drama or regret in being a vampire, no dark and gothic thoughts, and maybe for the first time, a vampire story didn’t give me an oppressive and gloomy feeling; being turned is more a party than a condemnation, and not even that is the moment when this young men will grow, on the contrary, it seems to be another excuse to not growing at all.
Blood Moon is a fresh and cute story that I think will appeal to a young or very young target. Or to an older reader who prefers paranormal stories not being too much dark.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003Q6CYFE/?...
Noah and Zack, the two heroes in this romance, are maybe a little older, 21 years old, but they are not much more adult. Zack is still spending most of his free time with his family and he was not able to break the umbilical cord with his mother; maybe he was traumatized when he “lost” his best friend, and love of his life, at 18 years old: he grew up with Noah, and as soon as he moved from being a child to being a young adult, he associated love, and sex, with Noah. But as he is not independent now, he was not precocious then, and so he was 18 years old at the time he found the courage to kiss his best friend. And one kiss was everything he got since the morning after Noah told him it was better they never seen each other again. Now three years later, Zack is still “mourning” the loss.
When Noah suddenly reappears in his life, even if he is not exactly the same as before, Zack doesn’t see the reason to send him away: three years are a long time, and Zack understood that he is no able to forget him. And then vampires are trendy, as I said before, and if they are also independently wealthy and with a good fashion instinct, well, they make also a good boyfriend.
If the feeling is that Zack and Noah’s life together is not exactly dangerous, even if they try to convince the reader it’s not like that, well, I think you are right; in a perfect “teenager” video game perspective, life is a forever, and death is not a game over, but merely a stop here and start from beginning. Nothing really bad happens, and real confrontation is always delayed. Everyone is beautiful and sexy and ordinary concerns, like how you will explain to your mother that you will be never more able to join her on Sunday lunch, or that you can’t attend daily courses at college, are something you will face later, always later.
In Zack and Noah’s new world, everyone is young, and also your enemy is handsome. There is no drama or regret in being a vampire, no dark and gothic thoughts, and maybe for the first time, a vampire story didn’t give me an oppressive and gloomy feeling; being turned is more a party than a condemnation, and not even that is the moment when this young men will grow, on the contrary, it seems to be another excuse to not growing at all.
Blood Moon is a fresh and cute story that I think will appeal to a young or very young target. Or to an older reader who prefers paranormal stories not being too much dark.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003Q6CYFE/?...
January 13, 2013
OK, I pretty much loved this book and M.J. O’Shea is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors (right up there with Katella Stegmann and J.A. Redmerski, but they write about teenage werewolves).
I loved the MCs and the secondaries. Most of the time, all were funny, and at other times, some were completely evil as appropriate. I loved Zack. The story is told from his point of view, and he is very, very witty. He also sounds like a guy, which some female authors have trouble with. I then purchased the other two Moon books.
So why 4 stars?
The sex.
Please don’t misunderstand me. I have nothing against sex, in fact, I love it. I try to have it as often as possible. But in a book…
One or two sex scenes are fine. But when you have one every other chapter, frankly, it starts to take away from the story. Let’s face it, most sex scenes are the same exact scene, re-written in a different order and in different…positions. Ahem. Now after having read literally thousands of books, most of which have sex scenes – M/F and M/M (I don’t do threesome books, because they’re way too confusing) – I just skip them. So a 145 page book became a 100 page one for me. And I really would have enjoyed spending more time with the characters. I love M.J. O’Shea. “Things I’ll Never Say” and “Unintended” are two of favorite books that I read in 2012. As a straight guy, I find her writing gives an incredible insight into the differences between male/female relationships and male/male ones (especially because in m/m you usually have two “alphas”). And were it not for the graphic sex scenes, I believe her works would be perfect as YA literature. I have a feeling that there aren’t enough books that cater to gay teens, and they should be able to read as many books as possible with positive role models, who can lead happy lives, and get that there are plenty of people who will accept them for who they are. It’s a very important message. Maybe the author might write two versions of the books so that parents (those who are accepting of their kids being gay) can buy these books and not have to worry if they’re too mature.
One of my favorite lines ever in a book:
“My life had turned into Thursday night on the CW and I couldn’t handle it.”
I say this because my family is FANATICAL about The Vampire Diaries and the second I read that, I had to put the Kindle down and laugh. A lot. M.J. O’Shea gets it!
I loved the MCs and the secondaries. Most of the time, all were funny, and at other times, some were completely evil as appropriate. I loved Zack. The story is told from his point of view, and he is very, very witty. He also sounds like a guy, which some female authors have trouble with. I then purchased the other two Moon books.
So why 4 stars?
The sex.
Please don’t misunderstand me. I have nothing against sex, in fact, I love it. I try to have it as often as possible. But in a book…
One or two sex scenes are fine. But when you have one every other chapter, frankly, it starts to take away from the story. Let’s face it, most sex scenes are the same exact scene, re-written in a different order and in different…positions. Ahem. Now after having read literally thousands of books, most of which have sex scenes – M/F and M/M (I don’t do threesome books, because they’re way too confusing) – I just skip them. So a 145 page book became a 100 page one for me. And I really would have enjoyed spending more time with the characters. I love M.J. O’Shea. “Things I’ll Never Say” and “Unintended” are two of favorite books that I read in 2012. As a straight guy, I find her writing gives an incredible insight into the differences between male/female relationships and male/male ones (especially because in m/m you usually have two “alphas”). And were it not for the graphic sex scenes, I believe her works would be perfect as YA literature. I have a feeling that there aren’t enough books that cater to gay teens, and they should be able to read as many books as possible with positive role models, who can lead happy lives, and get that there are plenty of people who will accept them for who they are. It’s a very important message. Maybe the author might write two versions of the books so that parents (those who are accepting of their kids being gay) can buy these books and not have to worry if they’re too mature.
One of my favorite lines ever in a book:
“My life had turned into Thursday night on the CW and I couldn’t handle it.”
I say this because my family is FANATICAL about The Vampire Diaries and the second I read that, I had to put the Kindle down and laugh. A lot. M.J. O’Shea gets it!
August 2, 2016
I got this book from NetGally in exchange for an honest review.
2.5
The day after Zack and Noah kissed, Noah pushed Zack out of his life. A year after the kiss, Noah comes back to the lake where they kissed and, most importantly, comes back to Zack. However, something is different about Noah and when he tells Zack, he does not know what to believe.
I like the fact that the books does not contain instalove, Zack & Noah knew each other since they were 5 years old. I also like what Noah's family is
However, I would have like to see more about the supernatural aspects of the book instead of just this couple and their friends. The extra characters are so flat and basically the same! It is hard to believe that everyone would react the exact (and expected) way. Also, the romance is so cheesy, ridiculous, and unbelievable
Another issue that I usually have with short books is the lack of plot but this books is just a joke. The story picks up near the end, comes out of nowhere, and last about two chapters. And it all is so easy for them! They do not have any real issues/conflicts on getting what they want, and if they have them, they are resolved in seconds.
This books feels more like a fanfiction and it is just about Zack and Noah's relationship, which is something I do not like. Plot over characters always.
I am still going to read the rest of the series just because it follows different characters, and they seem to be longer.
2.5
The day after Zack and Noah kissed, Noah pushed Zack out of his life. A year after the kiss, Noah comes back to the lake where they kissed and, most importantly, comes back to Zack. However, something is different about Noah and when he tells Zack, he does not know what to believe.
I like the fact that the books does not contain instalove, Zack & Noah knew each other since they were 5 years old. I also like what Noah's family is
However, I would have like to see more about the supernatural aspects of the book instead of just this couple and their friends. The extra characters are so flat and basically the same! It is hard to believe that everyone would react the exact (and expected) way. Also, the romance is so cheesy, ridiculous, and unbelievable
Another issue that I usually have with short books is the lack of plot but this books is just a joke. The story picks up near the end, comes out of nowhere, and last about two chapters. And it all is so easy for them! They do not have any real issues/conflicts on getting what they want, and if they have them, they are resolved in seconds.
This books feels more like a fanfiction and it is just about Zack and Noah's relationship, which is something I do not like. Plot over characters always.
I am still going to read the rest of the series just because it follows different characters, and they seem to be longer.
November 10, 2013
Despite being a shorter read for me than I usually prefer, this was a fun read. I have always liked M.J.'s writing - no complicated plots or unnecessary details but with enough depth and characterization to keep you entertained.
Noah and Zack were friends since they were five, when they first met during a summer vacation. Their friendship remained strong, despite only meeting in person every summer through letters, emails, chatting on-line, etc. Well, at least until they were 18 and shared their first kiss. The next day, Noah told Zack that they could no longer be friends, and walked away, leaving Zack heartbroken.
Now three years later, Noah comes back into Zack's life, with an explanation for why he had walked away - an explanation that leaves Zack reeling. Of course, knowing this is a vampire story, the reader quickly guesses/assumes the reason behind the break-up, and they'd be right - mostly!
The rest of the tale is in some ways predictable, but there were definitely a few twists I didn't see coming. While there were no real levels of angst found, there was enough there to prevent the story from being too sweet, just as the fact that it was not entirely smooth sailing for the couple helped prevent sugar overload too, even if the problems arising were also seemed pretty easily solved.
I suspect this will become a re-read for when I'm tired or stressed; when I want a fast dose of a paranormal romance but haven't got the mental alertness to deal with lots of detail.
Noah and Zack were friends since they were five, when they first met during a summer vacation. Their friendship remained strong, despite only meeting in person every summer through letters, emails, chatting on-line, etc. Well, at least until they were 18 and shared their first kiss. The next day, Noah told Zack that they could no longer be friends, and walked away, leaving Zack heartbroken.
Now three years later, Noah comes back into Zack's life, with an explanation for why he had walked away - an explanation that leaves Zack reeling. Of course, knowing this is a vampire story, the reader quickly guesses/assumes the reason behind the break-up, and they'd be right - mostly!
The rest of the tale is in some ways predictable, but there were definitely a few twists I didn't see coming. While there were no real levels of angst found, there was enough there to prevent the story from being too sweet, just as the fact that it was not entirely smooth sailing for the couple helped prevent sugar overload too, even if the problems arising were also seemed pretty easily solved.
I suspect this will become a re-read for when I'm tired or stressed; when I want a fast dose of a paranormal romance but haven't got the mental alertness to deal with lots of detail.
June 21, 2011
As I read this, “gay version of Twilight” kept flashing through my mind, though I have to admit that Zack had a lot more personality than Bella Swan ever did. While Noah’s reason for pushing Zack away was understandable, staying away for so long when it turned out he’d been in the same house all along every summer Zack went to visit and all he’d had to do was go and talk to Zack didn’t make any sense to me. It seemed to have created a lot of unecessary angst considering how quick Zack was to forgive Noah for abandoning him. This was my main reason for not really enjoying it enough to rate it with 4 stars. I would have understood if Zack knew the reason for why it happened before he forgave Noah or if I hadn’t had to read about how heartbroken he’d been for 3 years and how hurt. When they get together it was a very “I’m so sorry”, “Ok, I forgive you and will love you forever” moment and left me feeling rather cheated. I liked how in love and infatuated they were with each other, but by the end of the book I was more than ready to say goodbye to these characters and move on to another book.
July 13, 2016
I enjoyed the first chapter of this book, but unfortunately it went downhill from there. The characters, the plot, and the writing are all not only juvenile but puerile (even the graphic sex scenes, in a way, because these New Adult characters do not sound like real people at all, but rather like tropes in problematic romance novels).
The urban fantasy aspects of this book are as one would expect: vampires, werewolves, witches, etc., all introduced in fairly quick succession. That is all fine. But it's all so twee! And I don't get a sense that the author has been to any of the places in which this book is set (New York City, for example). The whole thing really reads like bad drawerfic.
I mean, for example -- and I don't consider this a spoiler because anyone interested in this book will be expecting this formula -- the main character is ultimately turned vampire by his boyfriend because he gets mortally wounded and true-love-is-forever, and the book still ends on a OMG ARE WE REALLY READY FOR COMMITMENT?! marriage proposal scene with a ring and everything. This is... not good.
** I received a Review Copy of this book via NetGalley **
(2013 Harmony Ink Press edition)
The urban fantasy aspects of this book are as one would expect: vampires, werewolves, witches, etc., all introduced in fairly quick succession. That is all fine. But it's all so twee! And I don't get a sense that the author has been to any of the places in which this book is set (New York City, for example). The whole thing really reads like bad drawerfic.
I mean, for example -- and I don't consider this a spoiler because anyone interested in this book will be expecting this formula -- the main character is ultimately turned vampire by his boyfriend because he gets mortally wounded and true-love-is-forever, and the book still ends on a OMG ARE WE REALLY READY FOR COMMITMENT?! marriage proposal scene with a ring and everything. This is... not good.
** I received a Review Copy of this book via NetGalley **
(2013 Harmony Ink Press edition)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews