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Josie Hawk Chronicles #0.5
Alabaster Nights
A Vampire with a soul. A Huntress with a knife.
In Nashville, Blood equals Power.
Will one taste of Josie Hawk cost Keller everything?
In Nashville, Blood equals Power.
Will one taste of Josie Hawk cost Keller everything?
69 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2013
3 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Elle J. Rossi
33 books154 followersElle J Rossi is a writer of Dark Fiction. Elle lets her characters take control as they lead her down dark and twisted paths on their haunting journey toward love.
When not writing, you'll more than likely catch her hanging with her husband, two kids and a cat who truly does rule the roost, or stealing the mic from her friends as the duel over country karaoke.
When not writing, you'll more than likely catch her hanging with her husband, two kids and a cat who truly does rule the roost, or stealing the mic from her friends as the duel over country karaoke.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 10, 2022
Alabaster Nights by Elle J Russi
Book 0.5 Josie Hawke Chronicles. Paranormal romance. Intro to the characters and writing. Alternating chapters and POV and from first to third person.
Vampire vs Monster Hunter. Can they really be destined for each other?
An encounter. Not a relationship. He says he’ll be back.
Might be good if someone wanted a sample of the writing. Or as a backstory for the series of how they met. So much left hanging and questions unanswered that to me it feels incomplete. Like the first chapter or prologue in a book by itself.
Truly just a teaser.
Book 0.5 Josie Hawke Chronicles. Paranormal romance. Intro to the characters and writing. Alternating chapters and POV and from first to third person.
Vampire vs Monster Hunter. Can they really be destined for each other?
An encounter. Not a relationship. He says he’ll be back.
Might be good if someone wanted a sample of the writing. Or as a backstory for the series of how they met. So much left hanging and questions unanswered that to me it feels incomplete. Like the first chapter or prologue in a book by itself.
Truly just a teaser.
January 5, 2020
This will be a short, yet very sweet review. I have read a couple of Elle J Rossi’s books and I just adore them. Alabaster Nights by Elle J Rossi is the first book in the Josie Hawk Chronicles, well technically, it is more of a prequel. The book introduces Keller. Keller is a vampire that has an addiction to feeding, an addiction that kills. Josie Hawk is a hunter, and she will not tolerate brutal killings in her city of Nashville. Keller is immediately drawn to her, knowing that she is his mate. However, she is fierce, independent, and will need some convincing…
This book is a teaser! It is only about 70 pages but will leave the reader wanting more, and it did for me. I love paranormal romance and I was immediately hooked on the characters. I adore their banter and teasing. They are both sarcastic and witty, even in serious situations which makes the story entertaining as well as addicting. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, which is much more than a teaser. I love the suspense and watching Keller and Josie’s teamwork when fighting demons. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!
This book is a teaser! It is only about 70 pages but will leave the reader wanting more, and it did for me. I love paranormal romance and I was immediately hooked on the characters. I adore their banter and teasing. They are both sarcastic and witty, even in serious situations which makes the story entertaining as well as addicting. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book, which is much more than a teaser. I love the suspense and watching Keller and Josie’s teamwork when fighting demons. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!
August 30, 2020
Since Urban Fantasy Romance isn't a recognized sub-genre I've classed this a paranormal romance, but other than the passion-incipient love between Josie and Keller, this is all urban fantasy with the forces of good magic arrayed against the forces of bad magic, or 'lore' to use the term of the book. This prequel provides the initial meeting between the MCs that are central to the following full books and does a great job of stage-setting in relatively few pages while also providing a complete story.
May 9, 2014
Alabaster Nights (The Josie Hawk Chronicles, #0.5) by Elle J Rossi
Elle J Rossi has given us a view into The Josie Hawk Chronicles titled Alabaster Nights.
We get to meet Josie and Keller, Josie is a huntress and Keller is a vampire.
Keller has had a hard transition as a vampire he still to this day cannot control his desires for blood. Josie who is a huntress and has some sort of magical blood has a few demons after her.
But meanwhile Keller knows that Josie is someone important to him and she may be his answer to help him calm his blood lust.
This is a short novel of opposites attract and it was a great prequel to a start of what I think will be a great series and a great romance.
I would recommend Alabaster Nights to anyone who loves the paranormal genre. The story is well written, the author has done a fantastic job in making me want to read the next book in this series.
I have rated Alabaster Night a 4 star rating. Fantastic Read!!
Elle J Rossi has given us a view into The Josie Hawk Chronicles titled Alabaster Nights.
We get to meet Josie and Keller, Josie is a huntress and Keller is a vampire.
Keller has had a hard transition as a vampire he still to this day cannot control his desires for blood. Josie who is a huntress and has some sort of magical blood has a few demons after her.
But meanwhile Keller knows that Josie is someone important to him and she may be his answer to help him calm his blood lust.
This is a short novel of opposites attract and it was a great prequel to a start of what I think will be a great series and a great romance.
I would recommend Alabaster Nights to anyone who loves the paranormal genre. The story is well written, the author has done a fantastic job in making me want to read the next book in this series.
I have rated Alabaster Night a 4 star rating. Fantastic Read!!
May 5, 2014
"A vampire rarely found true peace. Not until the end came, and Keller wondered if far worse awaited on the other side. That, of course, depended on which myth one chose to believe."
It is said that the short story is usually dealing with a few characters and aiming at unity of effect and often concentrating on the creation of mood rather than plot (Merriam Webster). Therefore, the first thing I would point out is that Alabaster Nights has both: atmosphere and a well-constructed plot, whose denouement, along with its attractive characters, will certainly open the readers’ fondness for next volumes of the series, whether intermediate or principal.
Focused on how Josie and Keller met and the debut of their relationship, Alabaster Nights presents the facts from Keller’s perspective, but it highlights, by using first person for Jodie’s chapters, that the main character of the series will be hers. Which, after reading this novella and depending on the author’s "goodness" (or lack thereof), makes as sure the readers’ impatience to meet Keller again as soon as possible and ignites the desire of his permanent presence.
There are some similarities with some previous series of the genre, but personally I can only think of one (others still waiting for me patiently on their shelves). However, these similarities do not mind, maybe only intrigue at first. Being so obvious I can only consider them intentional, especially as the Alabaster Nights has what it takes to create its own name in Urban Fantasy literature.
Whatever the genre of the book is, one thing I always look for is the richness, beauty and variety of the author’s style. I am pleased to say that Elle J.Rossi uses figures of speech, the beautiful expressions being in a firm balance with the Urban Fantasy characteristics and with the action and danger part of the story.
This first book of the series plays the host role: the main characters are shaped, the wide range of dangers presented and the variety of villains suggested, making you anxious for more.
It remains to be seen whether the author will fulfill the promises she made with Alabaster Nights and will provide us a new qualitative Urban Fantasy series.
"Death was a disease with no cure—a tyrant with a one-hundred-percent success rate. Mortals and immortals alike ingested the phantom’s toxic essence with every breath, every sigh, every spoken and unspoken word."
"The beast burned beneath his cool skin, like a fire that never weakened, clawing and tearing at the fragile tether that Keller could barely keep intact."
"Death roared and prowled, pulling its chain tight, close to snapping. Death disagreed."
It is said that the short story is usually dealing with a few characters and aiming at unity of effect and often concentrating on the creation of mood rather than plot (Merriam Webster). Therefore, the first thing I would point out is that Alabaster Nights has both: atmosphere and a well-constructed plot, whose denouement, along with its attractive characters, will certainly open the readers’ fondness for next volumes of the series, whether intermediate or principal.
Focused on how Josie and Keller met and the debut of their relationship, Alabaster Nights presents the facts from Keller’s perspective, but it highlights, by using first person for Jodie’s chapters, that the main character of the series will be hers. Which, after reading this novella and depending on the author’s "goodness" (or lack thereof), makes as sure the readers’ impatience to meet Keller again as soon as possible and ignites the desire of his permanent presence.
There are some similarities with some previous series of the genre, but personally I can only think of one (others still waiting for me patiently on their shelves). However, these similarities do not mind, maybe only intrigue at first. Being so obvious I can only consider them intentional, especially as the Alabaster Nights has what it takes to create its own name in Urban Fantasy literature.
Whatever the genre of the book is, one thing I always look for is the richness, beauty and variety of the author’s style. I am pleased to say that Elle J.Rossi uses figures of speech, the beautiful expressions being in a firm balance with the Urban Fantasy characteristics and with the action and danger part of the story.
This first book of the series plays the host role: the main characters are shaped, the wide range of dangers presented and the variety of villains suggested, making you anxious for more.
It remains to be seen whether the author will fulfill the promises she made with Alabaster Nights and will provide us a new qualitative Urban Fantasy series.
"Death was a disease with no cure—a tyrant with a one-hundred-percent success rate. Mortals and immortals alike ingested the phantom’s toxic essence with every breath, every sigh, every spoken and unspoken word."
"The beast burned beneath his cool skin, like a fire that never weakened, clawing and tearing at the fragile tether that Keller could barely keep intact."
"Death roared and prowled, pulling its chain tight, close to snapping. Death disagreed."
May 9, 2014
I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
Keller is a vampire that is hooked on blood like a human is hooked on alcohol or food. He has spent time in a rehab facility trying to overcome his addiction. But so far no one has been able to help him curve his appetite. Keller tries so hard to keep his addiction under control and not attack humans and kill them. He tries to only take what he needs to survive. He will try to drink blood from a glass or cup in a bar but it is not the same as drinking from a human. To Keller it just doesn't taste the same beside all that he doesn't get the same desired affect or feeling as he does when drinking from a human.
Keller's sister contacts him telepathy and tells him to come to this bar. She wants him to see the bar and check it out because Sage and her best friend Josie is going to become partners when they buy the bar. Keller can't believe that she is going to buy the bar and settled down in one place and actually stay there for a while. On his way to visit his sister Keller has an encounter with this woman who turns out to be Sage's best friend Josie only Keller has no knowledge of this at the time. When Keller meets Josie he knows that she is his mate and can't wait to meet her again.
When Keller arrives at the bar that his sister Sage is going to buy he sees his mate there. Keller knows she is his mate but she tells him that she belongs to no one. She is the boss of her own self and can take care of herself. Josie is a huntress and can fight just as well as Keller but he has other plans. His plan is to take care of her and make her his mate. He knows she can take care of herself but he fall real hard for her. Now he just has to convince her of this. And believe me he is a man with a plan.
I love reading about vampires and Alabaster Nights did not disappoint me in the least I loved it. I loved all the action it had with Keller and Josie fighting with their enemies. One minute Keller is trying to convince Josie that she is his mate and the next minute they are fighting with their enemies. If you like reading about vampires with a little action, love and some kick ass fighting then Alabaster Nights is the book for you.
Keller is a vampire that is hooked on blood like a human is hooked on alcohol or food. He has spent time in a rehab facility trying to overcome his addiction. But so far no one has been able to help him curve his appetite. Keller tries so hard to keep his addiction under control and not attack humans and kill them. He tries to only take what he needs to survive. He will try to drink blood from a glass or cup in a bar but it is not the same as drinking from a human. To Keller it just doesn't taste the same beside all that he doesn't get the same desired affect or feeling as he does when drinking from a human.
Keller's sister contacts him telepathy and tells him to come to this bar. She wants him to see the bar and check it out because Sage and her best friend Josie is going to become partners when they buy the bar. Keller can't believe that she is going to buy the bar and settled down in one place and actually stay there for a while. On his way to visit his sister Keller has an encounter with this woman who turns out to be Sage's best friend Josie only Keller has no knowledge of this at the time. When Keller meets Josie he knows that she is his mate and can't wait to meet her again.
When Keller arrives at the bar that his sister Sage is going to buy he sees his mate there. Keller knows she is his mate but she tells him that she belongs to no one. She is the boss of her own self and can take care of herself. Josie is a huntress and can fight just as well as Keller but he has other plans. His plan is to take care of her and make her his mate. He knows she can take care of herself but he fall real hard for her. Now he just has to convince her of this. And believe me he is a man with a plan.
I love reading about vampires and Alabaster Nights did not disappoint me in the least I loved it. I loved all the action it had with Keller and Josie fighting with their enemies. One minute Keller is trying to convince Josie that she is his mate and the next minute they are fighting with their enemies. If you like reading about vampires with a little action, love and some kick ass fighting then Alabaster Nights is the book for you.
April 30, 2014
Alabaster Nights is what I consider a teaser tale and it did exactly what it was meant to do, leave me wanting. Wanting more, more of the adventures of Josie Hawk.
The story is primarily from Keller’s—or Irish, as Josie calls him—point of view, with a sprinkling of Josie’s quick wit and humor. Ms. Rossi’s prose while in Keller’s head has a romantic, almost lyrical vibe, but in those few instances from Josie’s it’s fast paced and driving.
All the characters are interesting and I want to delve into what makes them tick. I want to find out more about Keller and his sister Sage’s making. Death, that resides in Keller. Then there’s Josie and the lore behind the Huntress.
Ms. Rossi’s world building is seamless with our own. There was no suspending of disbelief; the feel of the world was smooth and realistic. I wasn’t even bothered by the whole ‘mate’ plot point. As those of you who follow my reviews know, I’m not a big romance reader. I gravitate towards books where romance is a subplot, not the main objective and I don’t need a HEA. That said, I believe there is enough heat to satisfy romance lovers, tempered with enough character driven action for the rest of us.
When I do feel the need for a little romance, these are the types of books I prefer. I’d rank Ms. Rossi’s efforts right up there with my favorites in the paranormal romance genre Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nalini Singh and Kresley Cole to name a few.
I suggest you take the chance of being teased. I promise it will leave you wanting more.
The story is primarily from Keller’s—or Irish, as Josie calls him—point of view, with a sprinkling of Josie’s quick wit and humor. Ms. Rossi’s prose while in Keller’s head has a romantic, almost lyrical vibe, but in those few instances from Josie’s it’s fast paced and driving.
All the characters are interesting and I want to delve into what makes them tick. I want to find out more about Keller and his sister Sage’s making. Death, that resides in Keller. Then there’s Josie and the lore behind the Huntress.
Ms. Rossi’s world building is seamless with our own. There was no suspending of disbelief; the feel of the world was smooth and realistic. I wasn’t even bothered by the whole ‘mate’ plot point. As those of you who follow my reviews know, I’m not a big romance reader. I gravitate towards books where romance is a subplot, not the main objective and I don’t need a HEA. That said, I believe there is enough heat to satisfy romance lovers, tempered with enough character driven action for the rest of us.
When I do feel the need for a little romance, these are the types of books I prefer. I’d rank Ms. Rossi’s efforts right up there with my favorites in the paranormal romance genre Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nalini Singh and Kresley Cole to name a few.
I suggest you take the chance of being teased. I promise it will leave you wanting more.
May 16, 2014
Oh my... Keller... Love him & that name. Josie was great too.... You know, for a girl. :)
This is a great novella & a great introduction to the author's work. I've not read anything else by Rossi before but I definitely plan to now. I want to continue this series! It's one heck of a teaser, taking us through how the characters first meet, etc.
I enjoyed the author's pace for the story. It kept me interested and I didn't feel bored.
The characters... swoon. I loved Keller (if you didn't notice that in the opening sentence of this review) Ha. It's a great vampire tale and I think paranormal lovers could get into this series just from the opener. I liked the spin on the vamp tale. Keller is addicted to blood but wants to curve it so it's not so overwhelming of sorts. Drinking from cups just isn't the same. LOL Ewe... that just grosses me out. It's definitely hotter for vamps to drink from the source in my opinion so I can't blame the guy. Anywho... Josie has a spunky attitude and I liked her as well. However, I have to admit, I wasn't keen on the POV swaps.... I was almost peeved when Josie's POV came about because I just enjoyed Keller's POV so much.
I look forward to reading more of this series from this author because this novella pulled me in and left me wanting more of the characters & their world.
This is a great novella & a great introduction to the author's work. I've not read anything else by Rossi before but I definitely plan to now. I want to continue this series! It's one heck of a teaser, taking us through how the characters first meet, etc.
I enjoyed the author's pace for the story. It kept me interested and I didn't feel bored.
The characters... swoon. I loved Keller (if you didn't notice that in the opening sentence of this review) Ha. It's a great vampire tale and I think paranormal lovers could get into this series just from the opener. I liked the spin on the vamp tale. Keller is addicted to blood but wants to curve it so it's not so overwhelming of sorts. Drinking from cups just isn't the same. LOL Ewe... that just grosses me out. It's definitely hotter for vamps to drink from the source in my opinion so I can't blame the guy. Anywho... Josie has a spunky attitude and I liked her as well. However, I have to admit, I wasn't keen on the POV swaps.... I was almost peeved when Josie's POV came about because I just enjoyed Keller's POV so much.
I look forward to reading more of this series from this author because this novella pulled me in and left me wanting more of the characters & their world.
May 23, 2014
Alabaster Nights by Elle J. Rossi was a revelation! I didn't thought I would love this novella so much and now I can't wait to read the rest of this series! To truly learn and fall in love with Josie and Keller, the main characters!
Keller is a vampire and a sexy one. He knows that being a vampire it's more than supernatural powers and immortality. His hunger for blood is insatiable and at risk for his victim, but he seems to be a good guy and on the right side.
As for Josie, I didn't learn a lot about her. The author probably wants to keep it as a secret for more intense scenes and plots in the next novel. Josie is a Huntress; fighting evil and protecting her city is her duty and unfortunately, vampires aren't on the good side usually!
When Josie and Keller meet there has been an explosion of intense desire and attraction. I was taken aback by Keller's lust and need for Josie. Since it's a novella, Alabaster Nights only succeeded in stirred my desire to know more about Josie's adventures and of course, her relationship with the dark and mysterious vampire!
Overall, this novella was the perfect introduction to an intriguing series and I'll be in the front row to read the next books!
For lovers of paranormal romance with a vampire crush Alabaster Nights is for you!
Keller is a vampire and a sexy one. He knows that being a vampire it's more than supernatural powers and immortality. His hunger for blood is insatiable and at risk for his victim, but he seems to be a good guy and on the right side.
As for Josie, I didn't learn a lot about her. The author probably wants to keep it as a secret for more intense scenes and plots in the next novel. Josie is a Huntress; fighting evil and protecting her city is her duty and unfortunately, vampires aren't on the good side usually!
When Josie and Keller meet there has been an explosion of intense desire and attraction. I was taken aback by Keller's lust and need for Josie. Since it's a novella, Alabaster Nights only succeeded in stirred my desire to know more about Josie's adventures and of course, her relationship with the dark and mysterious vampire!
Overall, this novella was the perfect introduction to an intriguing series and I'll be in the front row to read the next books!
For lovers of paranormal romance with a vampire crush Alabaster Nights is for you!
May 15, 2014
This is the kind of novella that makes me happy! :-)
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
He's a vampire. A hunter with no leash but many regrets. Compelled to feed and kill at an alarming rate, he's on the verge of the point of no return. Still, something stops him from killing his victims, even though Death inside him nags him to do just that. Legend says only finding a mate can assuage the killing frenzy. And he might have just found his.
Snarky and fast-paced, the author's writing style creates a story full of rhythm, lively characters and a compelling world of paranormal creatures. I love the concept of vampires with abnormal traits and that mysterious sire who's concocting a plan for the world. Another fantastic element is the Colony, where vampires willingly go to get a weird kind of treatment. Loved that idea!
The Huntress is a kick-ass heroine with remarkable fighting skills she puts to good use defending Nashville from creatures of the occult. And when she somewhat reluctantly teams up with a sexy but stubborn vampire, the combination is deadly, full of mischief and action, and sparks fly high enough to leave me hungry for a full-length novel.
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
He's a vampire. A hunter with no leash but many regrets. Compelled to feed and kill at an alarming rate, he's on the verge of the point of no return. Still, something stops him from killing his victims, even though Death inside him nags him to do just that. Legend says only finding a mate can assuage the killing frenzy. And he might have just found his.
Snarky and fast-paced, the author's writing style creates a story full of rhythm, lively characters and a compelling world of paranormal creatures. I love the concept of vampires with abnormal traits and that mysterious sire who's concocting a plan for the world. Another fantastic element is the Colony, where vampires willingly go to get a weird kind of treatment. Loved that idea!
The Huntress is a kick-ass heroine with remarkable fighting skills she puts to good use defending Nashville from creatures of the occult. And when she somewhat reluctantly teams up with a sexy but stubborn vampire, the combination is deadly, full of mischief and action, and sparks fly high enough to leave me hungry for a full-length novel.
March 30, 2015
Alabaster Nights (Josie Hawk Chronicles 0.5) by Elle J. Rossi Vampire, Keller O’Leary, goes to Nashville to visit his sister and meets his mate, Huntress, Josie Hawk.
This is the prequel to the Josie Hawk Chronicles. I actually read it out of order and enjoyed Keller’s perspective.
It’s hard not to like Irish vampire, Keller. He is patient and strong. I value that he plays the drums. I also appreciate that he wants to be good, fitting in the human world and subjected himself to the Colony (aka vampire rehab).
I enjoyed learning about his background and some of the things he went through.
I like how he, and Josie met in this story and interact with each other. Alabaster Nights is a well-written novella. It is a fast read that I could not put down and a great start to the series.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is the prequel to the Josie Hawk Chronicles. I actually read it out of order and enjoyed Keller’s perspective.
It’s hard not to like Irish vampire, Keller. He is patient and strong. I value that he plays the drums. I also appreciate that he wants to be good, fitting in the human world and subjected himself to the Colony (aka vampire rehab).
I enjoyed learning about his background and some of the things he went through.
I like how he, and Josie met in this story and interact with each other. Alabaster Nights is a well-written novella. It is a fast read that I could not put down and a great start to the series.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2014
I loved this novella. I wasn't sure what to expect when I signed up for this tour and couldn't even remember what drew me too it - but I am so glad I did!! This was my first introduction to Elle's work.
Elle has such a great writing style that just draws you in. One thing I picked up from another review was the change of pov's between characters. I'm not sure I would have thought about it too much and in my opinion it didn't affect the story for me.
Josie is one kick ass heroine. I love her feistiness. Keller is gorgeously swoon-worthy and awesome. I really cannot wait to continue with this series. This was the introduction of how Josie and Keller met.
The plot is quick and to the point. Elle's pace is perfect and the story just sucks you right in.
Final Thoughts: I think we will see some great things from this author!
Elle has such a great writing style that just draws you in. One thing I picked up from another review was the change of pov's between characters. I'm not sure I would have thought about it too much and in my opinion it didn't affect the story for me.
Josie is one kick ass heroine. I love her feistiness. Keller is gorgeously swoon-worthy and awesome. I really cannot wait to continue with this series. This was the introduction of how Josie and Keller met.
The plot is quick and to the point. Elle's pace is perfect and the story just sucks you right in.
Final Thoughts: I think we will see some great things from this author!
March 30, 2015
Vampire, Keller O’Leary, goes to Nashville to visit his sister and meets his mate, Huntress, Josie Hawk.
This is the prequel to the Josie Hawk Chronicles. I actually read it out of order and enjoyed Keller’s perspective.
It’s hard not to like Irish vampire, Keller. He is patient and strong. I value that he plays the drums. I also appreciate that he wants to be good, fitting in the human world and subjected himself to the Colony (aka vampire rehab).
I enjoyed learning about his background and some of the things he went through.
I like how he, and Josie met in this story and interact with each other.
Alabaster Nights is a well-written novella. It is a fast read that I could not put down and a great start to the series.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is the prequel to the Josie Hawk Chronicles. I actually read it out of order and enjoyed Keller’s perspective.
It’s hard not to like Irish vampire, Keller. He is patient and strong. I value that he plays the drums. I also appreciate that he wants to be good, fitting in the human world and subjected himself to the Colony (aka vampire rehab).
I enjoyed learning about his background and some of the things he went through.
I like how he, and Josie met in this story and interact with each other.
Alabaster Nights is a well-written novella. It is a fast read that I could not put down and a great start to the series.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2014
Ms. Rossi writes a sarcastic and confident hero in Keller, the atypical tortured soul characteristic of vampire stories with the clichéd story line of vampire falls for vampire hunter.
Read full review in the 2014 April issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 April issue of InD’tale Magazine.
August 13, 2020
The writing is great, the story is promising. It’s just too short to have any real depth. It’s more of an introduction to a series - but one that a reader will assuredly want to try!
July 3, 2014
Vampire Keller O'Leary has only stepped foot in Nashville for two reasons:
1). His sister, Sage, sent him a personal invitation;
2). There is powerful blood flowing through the veins in Nashville.
Only, there's a female force to be reckoned with inside this town. After partaking in his evening "meal" and depositing her at the local hospital for treatment, he's assaulted. His attacker is female, knows he is a vampire, and orders him to leave the city....Immediately. There's just one problem: he may have quite possibly located his one and only true mate. Okay ~ actually there are a couple of problems ~ The second being the identity of his true mate.
This is a well written novella that pulled me into the world of Josie Hawk and won't let go. I immediately added Crimson Beat and Indigo Dawn to my TBR shelf on Goodreads. Josie is a Huntress and she has no problem exerting her badassery. She's intolerant of evil and bends over backwards (forward, inside, outside, or upside down if need be) to protect her humans.
There is a certain amount of undeniable chemistry between Keller and his mate. When Keller actually realizes what (or who) he's finally found, his lost sense of humanity slowly starts to rebuilt itself. Josie is a tough, sarcastic hero but her love for the human population of Nashville is undeniable, making her a very strong and likable character. Part of the novella is told from Keller's POV and part is told from Josie's POV. This gives the novella a uniqueness that allows both characters to shine without dimming the star power of the other. I can't wait to see where the author takes us in the next novella and full-length novel.
Review copy courtesy of the author/publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review.
1). His sister, Sage, sent him a personal invitation;
2). There is powerful blood flowing through the veins in Nashville.
Only, there's a female force to be reckoned with inside this town. After partaking in his evening "meal" and depositing her at the local hospital for treatment, he's assaulted. His attacker is female, knows he is a vampire, and orders him to leave the city....Immediately. There's just one problem: he may have quite possibly located his one and only true mate. Okay ~ actually there are a couple of problems ~ The second being the identity of his true mate.
This is a well written novella that pulled me into the world of Josie Hawk and won't let go. I immediately added Crimson Beat and Indigo Dawn to my TBR shelf on Goodreads. Josie is a Huntress and she has no problem exerting her badassery. She's intolerant of evil and bends over backwards (forward, inside, outside, or upside down if need be) to protect her humans.
There is a certain amount of undeniable chemistry between Keller and his mate. When Keller actually realizes what (or who) he's finally found, his lost sense of humanity slowly starts to rebuilt itself. Josie is a tough, sarcastic hero but her love for the human population of Nashville is undeniable, making her a very strong and likable character. Part of the novella is told from Keller's POV and part is told from Josie's POV. This gives the novella a uniqueness that allows both characters to shine without dimming the star power of the other. I can't wait to see where the author takes us in the next novella and full-length novel.
Review copy courtesy of the author/publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2014
This is the prequel for the series, where Josie meets Keller, and you see from someone else’s view. I loved it, because you do get to see from Josie’s POV, but you also see Keller’s. It’s nice to get a little from each. I very much want to read the first, big, novel of this series! This one starts out with a bang, and it’s hilarious. There’s action, mystery, steamy hot romance, and some serious ass kicking. Heh, Josie definitely caught Keller’s eye from the get go!
Josie is loyal, and a little closed, and I definitely want to learn more about those reasons. She’s also funny, and holds herself to some extreme expectations. She is a hunter, and she will keep the humans around her safe, no matter what the cost including to her heart. She is also quite fond of Keller’s sister. And that means she has to tolerate Keller. And Keller is relentless!
Keller seemed like a big ole meanie when he first talks. It’s obvious he expects people to kneel when he walks and kiss his feet. And then Josie kicks his ass. It was a great wake up call for him. It also showed that he can adapt to something, or someone, new. And he loves his sister, it’s his probable one weakness. :) I so look forward to seeing where this relationship between these two, and how his sister is going to fit in.
The writing is great, and I know it confuses some people, but I liked the different types of POVs. It’s in first person for Josie, which you are getting her direct feed. And then it’s third person for Keller. It has a more outward appearance in the scenery this way. It’s just different and I love different. I can’t wait, really, to read the books of this new series! It’s bound to be a great one! 5 VAMPER, HUNTRESS ASS KICKING PAWS!!!
Josie is loyal, and a little closed, and I definitely want to learn more about those reasons. She’s also funny, and holds herself to some extreme expectations. She is a hunter, and she will keep the humans around her safe, no matter what the cost including to her heart. She is also quite fond of Keller’s sister. And that means she has to tolerate Keller. And Keller is relentless!
Keller seemed like a big ole meanie when he first talks. It’s obvious he expects people to kneel when he walks and kiss his feet. And then Josie kicks his ass. It was a great wake up call for him. It also showed that he can adapt to something, or someone, new. And he loves his sister, it’s his probable one weakness. :) I so look forward to seeing where this relationship between these two, and how his sister is going to fit in.
The writing is great, and I know it confuses some people, but I liked the different types of POVs. It’s in first person for Josie, which you are getting her direct feed. And then it’s third person for Keller. It has a more outward appearance in the scenery this way. It’s just different and I love different. I can’t wait, really, to read the books of this new series! It’s bound to be a great one! 5 VAMPER, HUNTRESS ASS KICKING PAWS!!!
October 13, 2021
Alabaster Nights is a novella that introduces the reader to The Josie Hawk Chronicles. It reveals how Keller and Josie met or, better yet, how they ‘accidentally’ found their mate in each other. At least Keller seems to be pretty sure about that, Josie has quite an attitude and making light over the whole ‘are you really my mate?’ reveals to be a tricky challenge for our hero . . .
I liked both characters—also Keller’s sister, Sage—they’re a good match and they promise an exciting adventure to come, which is why I’m so curious to read the novel, too. What bothered me a bit instead was the POV jump from third (Keller’s) to first (Josie’s) person, as I prefer to stick with one during the reading because I find it less distracting. Of course, this didn’t stop me from enjoying the read in the end, which flew really well, even though I felt like the final chapter was a bit too rushed. A shame because it had the potential to be the most powerful part in the novella.
Nevertheless, it was a pleasant read that definitely got me interested about those characters and their backgrounds. You should give it a go and let Elle J Rossi lead you to the wicked world she has created!
I received a free copy of this book from the Author for an honest review. This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review—originally posted on Darkest Sins.
I liked both characters—also Keller’s sister, Sage—they’re a good match and they promise an exciting adventure to come, which is why I’m so curious to read the novel, too. What bothered me a bit instead was the POV jump from third (Keller’s) to first (Josie’s) person, as I prefer to stick with one during the reading because I find it less distracting. Of course, this didn’t stop me from enjoying the read in the end, which flew really well, even though I felt like the final chapter was a bit too rushed. A shame because it had the potential to be the most powerful part in the novella.
Nevertheless, it was a pleasant read that definitely got me interested about those characters and their backgrounds. You should give it a go and let Elle J Rossi lead you to the wicked world she has created!
I received a free copy of this book from the Author for an honest review. This does not affect in any way my opinion of the book nor the content of my review—originally posted on Darkest Sins.
August 10, 2016
Josie is a huntress and Keller is a vampire. What kind of combination is that?
I don't normally read nor review novellas and short stories as I don't feel I get a good amount of book when reading them but lately I keep forgetting to ask if the books I am being asked to review are novellas. As a rule I never give a novella anything higher than four stars, its not that the books are not good its just what I said above I don't feel like I have gotten a good amount of book from them.
Since I feel like this book was something written to go back and explain questions that may have a risen from a different book written I feel a bit cheated on this story. I felt that it didn't have the ending a longer book would have had. It felt to me like you had to carry over to the next book to see what happens and I don't like that part at all, especially if I have to wait months to get the next book. But I did like the story so I give it four stars.
I was given this book as a gift for an honest review.
I don't normally read nor review novellas and short stories as I don't feel I get a good amount of book when reading them but lately I keep forgetting to ask if the books I am being asked to review are novellas. As a rule I never give a novella anything higher than four stars, its not that the books are not good its just what I said above I don't feel like I have gotten a good amount of book from them.
Since I feel like this book was something written to go back and explain questions that may have a risen from a different book written I feel a bit cheated on this story. I felt that it didn't have the ending a longer book would have had. It felt to me like you had to carry over to the next book to see what happens and I don't like that part at all, especially if I have to wait months to get the next book. But I did like the story so I give it four stars.
I was given this book as a gift for an honest review.
April 28, 2014
I've never read anything by Rossi before and if you find yourself in my same shoes, this novella is the perfect chance to begin with. You can definitely tell that there is so much to discover about both Josie and Keller and I sure am interested after this!
Passion sizzles a lot during their brief moments together, and after an ending like that, I can only want to keep reading and find more about these two.
However, the only thing that didn't work for me was the change of person in the POVs. Although I have absolutely no issue with reading different POVs in one book, the jump from third to first (to third again) person made the reading a bit difficult to follow. I hope the other novels aren't set that way, because it would be a real pity.
Nevertheless, I'm definitely keeping an eye out for Indigo Dawn!
Passion sizzles a lot during their brief moments together, and after an ending like that, I can only want to keep reading and find more about these two.
However, the only thing that didn't work for me was the change of person in the POVs. Although I have absolutely no issue with reading different POVs in one book, the jump from third to first (to third again) person made the reading a bit difficult to follow. I hope the other novels aren't set that way, because it would be a real pity.
Nevertheless, I'm definitely keeping an eye out for Indigo Dawn!
January 9, 2016
2.5
Standard vampire meets his mate, insta-love ensues PNR. Not bad, but nothing special. Plus, it's a prequel to a series so it ends before the actual story really gets going.
Standard vampire meets his mate, insta-love ensues PNR. Not bad, but nothing special. Plus, it's a prequel to a series so it ends before the actual story really gets going.
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