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Alex Bain #1
Death and Sweet Temptations
Kristen Coar launches her brand-new ALEX BAIN series with Death and Sweet Temptations, a tale of half-vampire, half-human Alex Bain, where the veil between the mundane and the monstrous thins to a nearly imperceptible shroud, and within its folds lurks a desire as perilous as any fiend.
Set in a contemporary world brimming with magic, danger, and searing romance, this story is perfect for fans of series like Anita Blake, The Hollows, Crescent City, or the Night Huntress.
Alex's tenure at Sweet Temptations is marked with success, her ascent up the corporate ladder as smooth as molten cocoa. But as Chicago's shadowed alleys echo with the cries of supernaturally murdered women, her dark heritage calls her to a far greater task.
Joining forces with her wisecracking roommate Argo, a gourmet-loving corgi from Hell, and Sergeant Isabella "Izzie" Bliss of the CPD, they race against time to thwart this diabolical terror.
However, before they can find those responsible, her two carefully curated identities collide in an office romance that quickly threatens to pull her under. As she falls deeper, the lines between sanity and chaos blur, and Lucas, the steamy consultant, becomes more than just a delicious distraction.
As more women die and ancient powers awaken whispering of a long-forgotten prophecy, can her burgeoning love for a man with shady secrets and a wicked past craft a new destiny? One thing becomes clear: the price of temptation could be her very soul.
Death and Sweet Temptations is a story of deep bonds, what makes a monster, and a love that transcends the darkness within each of us.
Don't miss this gripping adventure, your next sexy supernatural obsession awaits!
Set in a contemporary world brimming with magic, danger, and searing romance, this story is perfect for fans of series like Anita Blake, The Hollows, Crescent City, or the Night Huntress.
Alex's tenure at Sweet Temptations is marked with success, her ascent up the corporate ladder as smooth as molten cocoa. But as Chicago's shadowed alleys echo with the cries of supernaturally murdered women, her dark heritage calls her to a far greater task.
Joining forces with her wisecracking roommate Argo, a gourmet-loving corgi from Hell, and Sergeant Isabella "Izzie" Bliss of the CPD, they race against time to thwart this diabolical terror.
However, before they can find those responsible, her two carefully curated identities collide in an office romance that quickly threatens to pull her under. As she falls deeper, the lines between sanity and chaos blur, and Lucas, the steamy consultant, becomes more than just a delicious distraction.
As more women die and ancient powers awaken whispering of a long-forgotten prophecy, can her burgeoning love for a man with shady secrets and a wicked past craft a new destiny? One thing becomes clear: the price of temptation could be her very soul.
Death and Sweet Temptations is a story of deep bonds, what makes a monster, and a love that transcends the darkness within each of us.
Don't miss this gripping adventure, your next sexy supernatural obsession awaits!
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2024
148 people are currently reading
3186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
July 7, 2024
The gorgeous cover dragged me in but the story is so
unoriginal
it hurts. I know it's difficult to write a groundbreaking book in any genre nowadays, so to engage a reader you need to stand out in other ways. Unique characters, detailed world building, compelling story and other treats in that line. Death and Sweet Temptations had none of that. Reading this book made me want to read other books that does what this failed to do.
Do you want a strong badass female half-vampire, who's afraid of her darker half but utilizes it to kill other vampires? Whose first love was a traumatic experience?Cathrine Crawfield does it better than Alex Bain. Granted the Night Huntress is mentioned in the blurb.
Do you want a badass, sword-wielding, mature half-blood past her 20s with a badass, snarky and helpful animal companion? Someone who has a military boss that gathers intel and is sent on missions to kill nightmare creatures with her sword, Talon? Val Thorvald, her boss and her giant white tiger does it better than Alex Bain, her friend and ally Izzy, the Chicago PD sergeant, and her Corgi Argo, whose only help is cooking food.
Do you want a FMC who has a magical companion masquerading as a dog, but has human intelligence? Jinx and her Great Dane does it better than Alex Bain and Argo the food supplier. I don't understand why Argo doesn't go out and help Alex. It is such a missed opportunity to only have him be the chef and giving somewhat helpful advice.
Do you want a world containing crazy, manipulative, sadistic vampires with a plan of taking over the world and be able to control our FMC like a puppet on strings? Try reading about the vampires Mercedes Thompsons has to deal with.
I wanted to know about fighting vampires and solve murders, but since the first half was mostly detailing Alex's job and related responsibilities I wasn't invested when we were introduced to our love interest. So, I didn't care much for Lucas, and his actions throughout didn't endear me to him nor did his past.
I dislike it when insta-lust/love turns into a head dive into sex, because I feel like there's no anticipation in what's to come. No rooting for the couple is warranted because they've already bumped uglies and often in an unsatisfactory way. In the abovementioned series the men have to work for it, and it makes the UST all the more satisfying when they get together, because through their interactions you get a feel of whether or not they'll be a great couple and it creates a foundation for a meaningful connection and makes the sex more intimate.
If you want a more fleshed out world and characters, go to one of the others because they have an entire series and side characters with personalities strong enough to get their own spinoff series in he same universe. Death and Sweet Temptations is washed out and pale in comparison, in my opinion. It had so much potential but it fell flat.
I received a free copy of this book from Kristen Coar and BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Do you want a strong badass female half-vampire, who's afraid of her darker half but utilizes it to kill other vampires? Whose first love was a traumatic experience?Cathrine Crawfield does it better than Alex Bain. Granted the Night Huntress is mentioned in the blurb.
Do you want a badass, sword-wielding, mature half-blood past her 20s with a badass, snarky and helpful animal companion? Someone who has a military boss that gathers intel and is sent on missions to kill nightmare creatures with her sword, Talon? Val Thorvald, her boss and her giant white tiger does it better than Alex Bain, her friend and ally Izzy, the Chicago PD sergeant, and her Corgi Argo, whose only help is cooking food.
Do you want a FMC who has a magical companion masquerading as a dog, but has human intelligence? Jinx and her Great Dane does it better than Alex Bain and Argo the food supplier. I don't understand why Argo doesn't go out and help Alex. It is such a missed opportunity to only have him be the chef and giving somewhat helpful advice.
Do you want a world containing crazy, manipulative, sadistic vampires with a plan of taking over the world and be able to control our FMC like a puppet on strings? Try reading about the vampires Mercedes Thompsons has to deal with.
I wanted to know about fighting vampires and solve murders, but since the first half was mostly detailing Alex's job and related responsibilities I wasn't invested when we were introduced to our love interest. So, I didn't care much for Lucas, and his actions throughout didn't endear me to him nor did his past.
I dislike it when insta-lust/love turns into a head dive into sex, because I feel like there's no anticipation in what's to come. No rooting for the couple is warranted because they've already bumped uglies and often in an unsatisfactory way. In the abovementioned series the men have to work for it, and it makes the UST all the more satisfying when they get together, because through their interactions you get a feel of whether or not they'll be a great couple and it creates a foundation for a meaningful connection and makes the sex more intimate.
If you want a more fleshed out world and characters, go to one of the others because they have an entire series and side characters with personalities strong enough to get their own spinoff series in he same universe. Death and Sweet Temptations is washed out and pale in comparison, in my opinion. It had so much potential but it fell flat.
I received a free copy of this book from Kristen Coar and BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2024
This was one of those books that took me a bit to get into….
Why did it take me so long to get into it you ask??? This was the first book in a series….the author did a lot of character development and world building….you start to build a relationship with Alex…..killer bad B by night and VP of Supply at Sweet Temptations by day…well she is half vampire and half human so that explains a lot about her bad B-ness….well that and shes best friends with Izzie….police Sargent by day ands puts her skills to good use with Alex by night
Alex has a cute pup Argo….what you aren’t expecting is that the cute pup talks and cooks 10 course meals…..ok maybe not 10 courses but you get what I’m saying…he’s a bit of a mess….he has quick witted banter with everyone he comes into contact with….one sassy Corgi
Along the way we meet consultant Lucas….Lucas and Alex are drawn to each other…..when things start to heat up between these two the story takes a turn….pay attention though….you get a lot of information quick and a twist towards the end I wasn’t expecting…..
We did end on a bit of a cliff hanger….hoping we get the answers in book two but wonder if there are more things we need to find out about first
If you are into paranormal romance with Vampires and Warlocks and the cutest Corgi that has secrets of his own give this book a read….it is part of a series so watch for all of the details
Why did it take me so long to get into it you ask??? This was the first book in a series….the author did a lot of character development and world building….you start to build a relationship with Alex…..killer bad B by night and VP of Supply at Sweet Temptations by day…well she is half vampire and half human so that explains a lot about her bad B-ness….well that and shes best friends with Izzie….police Sargent by day ands puts her skills to good use with Alex by night
Alex has a cute pup Argo….what you aren’t expecting is that the cute pup talks and cooks 10 course meals…..ok maybe not 10 courses but you get what I’m saying…he’s a bit of a mess….he has quick witted banter with everyone he comes into contact with….one sassy Corgi
Along the way we meet consultant Lucas….Lucas and Alex are drawn to each other…..when things start to heat up between these two the story takes a turn….pay attention though….you get a lot of information quick and a twist towards the end I wasn’t expecting…..
We did end on a bit of a cliff hanger….hoping we get the answers in book two but wonder if there are more things we need to find out about first
If you are into paranormal romance with Vampires and Warlocks and the cutest Corgi that has secrets of his own give this book a read….it is part of a series so watch for all of the details
May 3, 2024
There is a lot going on with this book. The author has a writing style that throws too many adjectives at you - everything is way wordier than it needs to be (think college students trying to meet the minimum word requirement in a term paper). Also, our MFC is apparently a super hero on crack: she is a hunter at night, with half vampire blood, works all day as a supply chain executive, and in her "spare" time works out like a demon and plays soccer. GOSH! When does she sleep?
September 23, 2024
Nederlands:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Algemeen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Personages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Verhaallijn
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Einde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Tempo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Schrijfstijl
🌶🌶 4 scènes, niet te gedetailleerd en zonder lange beschrijvingen.
💀 Lichte beschrijving van een duister verleden
Sterke vrouwelijke hoofdpersoon
Gevonden familie
Verboden liefde
Een duistere profetie
Verbonden liefde
Het verhaal speelt zich af in Chicago, waar onder de sluier van de nacht bovennatuurlijke wezens rondzwerven en moorden. Omdat het zich afspeelt in een bestaande stad, is er minder behoefte aan uitgebreide worldbuilding, maar de beschrijvingen van de omgeving zijn rijk en duidelijk, waardoor je echt wordt meegenomen in de setting. Ook worden er "standaard" bovennatuurlijke wezens gebruikt, wat het lezen als fantasy lezen makkelijker maakt en het helpt je om deze wezens goed voor je te zien. De levendige beschrijvingen van de wezens dragen hier ook aan bij.
De snelheid van het verhaal is gemiddeld, zonder onnodige opvulling, waardoor het boek snel wegleest en je wilt blijven doorlezen. De schrijfstijl is in de derde persoon en prettig geschreven.
Het einde is open, met meerdere aanknopingspunten voor het tweede deel, maar gelukkig niet met een heftige cliffhanger.
Spoiler alert ⚠️
Ik vond de vrouwelijke hoofdpersoon fantastisch. Ze is super sterk, vecht voor wat juist is, en gebruikt haar duistere kant (ze is een dampier, half vampier) om het goede te doen. Ze gaat elke uitdaging recht op het doel af. Dit staat in scherp contrast met de mannelijke liefdesinteresse, die wegloopt van zijn verleden en probeert te ontsnappen. Samen met haar, Izzy en Otto gaat hij uiteindelijk de strijd aan. Wat me vooral beviel, is dat zij uiteindelijk degene is die iedereen redt, in plaats van de mannelijke held.
De demonische corgi was ook geweldig! Ik heb er dringend eentje nodig ❤️, al heb ik het gevoel dat hij eigenlijk een man is, vermomd als hond 🤭. Dat zullen we vast in deel twee ontdekken. Tot mijn verrassing vond ik Izzy het leukste personage. Ze deed me denken aan een vriendin die ik onlangs heb gemaakt, en wie zou nou niet zo'n vriendin willen? Ik hoop echt dat het goed afloopt met haar en Otto!
English:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Characters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Plot
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Ending
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Pacing
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Writing style
🌶🌶 4 scenes, not overly detailed and without long descriptions.
💀 Light description of a dark past
Strong female lead
Found family
Forbidden love
Dire prophecy
Bonded love
The story is set in Chicago, where supernatural creatures roam the streets under the cover of night, committing murders. Since it takes place in a real city, there's less need for extensive worldbuilding, but the descriptions of the setting are rich and vivid, truly immersing you in the world. Familiar supernatural beings are used, making the fantasy element easy to visualize, and the detailed descriptions further help paint a clear picture of the creatures.
The pacing is medium, with no unnecessary filler, making the story a quick, engaging read that keeps you turning the pages. The writing style is in the third person and is very enjoyable.
It ends on an open note, with several threads leading into the next book, but thankfully, there’s no heavy cliffhanger.
Spoiler alert ⚠️
I really loved the main female character. She’s incredibly strong, fighting for what’s right, and uses her dark side (she’s a dhampir, half-vampire) for good. She dives headfirst into every challenge. This is in sharp contrast to the male love interest, who runs from his past and tries to escape it. However, together with her, Izzy, and Otto, he eventually faces the fight. What I loved most is that she is the one who ends up saving everyone, instead of the male hero.
The demon corgi was amazing as well! I desperately need one ❤️, though I suspect he’s actually a man disguised as a dog 🤭. We’ll likely find out in part two. Surprisingly, Izzy became my favorite character. She reminded me of a friend I recently made, and who wouldn’t want a friend like that? I’m really rooting for her and Otto to have a happy ending!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Algemeen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Personages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Verhaallijn
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Einde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Tempo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Schrijfstijl
🌶🌶 4 scènes, niet te gedetailleerd en zonder lange beschrijvingen.
💀 Lichte beschrijving van een duister verleden
Sterke vrouwelijke hoofdpersoon
Gevonden familie
Verboden liefde
Een duistere profetie
Verbonden liefde
Het verhaal speelt zich af in Chicago, waar onder de sluier van de nacht bovennatuurlijke wezens rondzwerven en moorden. Omdat het zich afspeelt in een bestaande stad, is er minder behoefte aan uitgebreide worldbuilding, maar de beschrijvingen van de omgeving zijn rijk en duidelijk, waardoor je echt wordt meegenomen in de setting. Ook worden er "standaard" bovennatuurlijke wezens gebruikt, wat het lezen als fantasy lezen makkelijker maakt en het helpt je om deze wezens goed voor je te zien. De levendige beschrijvingen van de wezens dragen hier ook aan bij.
De snelheid van het verhaal is gemiddeld, zonder onnodige opvulling, waardoor het boek snel wegleest en je wilt blijven doorlezen. De schrijfstijl is in de derde persoon en prettig geschreven.
Het einde is open, met meerdere aanknopingspunten voor het tweede deel, maar gelukkig niet met een heftige cliffhanger.
Spoiler alert ⚠️
Ik vond de vrouwelijke hoofdpersoon fantastisch. Ze is super sterk, vecht voor wat juist is, en gebruikt haar duistere kant (ze is een dampier, half vampier) om het goede te doen. Ze gaat elke uitdaging recht op het doel af. Dit staat in scherp contrast met de mannelijke liefdesinteresse, die wegloopt van zijn verleden en probeert te ontsnappen. Samen met haar, Izzy en Otto gaat hij uiteindelijk de strijd aan. Wat me vooral beviel, is dat zij uiteindelijk degene is die iedereen redt, in plaats van de mannelijke held.
De demonische corgi was ook geweldig! Ik heb er dringend eentje nodig ❤️, al heb ik het gevoel dat hij eigenlijk een man is, vermomd als hond 🤭. Dat zullen we vast in deel twee ontdekken. Tot mijn verrassing vond ik Izzy het leukste personage. Ze deed me denken aan een vriendin die ik onlangs heb gemaakt, en wie zou nou niet zo'n vriendin willen? Ik hoop echt dat het goed afloopt met haar en Otto!
English:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Characters
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Plot
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Ending
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Pacing
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ Writing style
🌶🌶 4 scenes, not overly detailed and without long descriptions.
💀 Light description of a dark past
Strong female lead
Found family
Forbidden love
Dire prophecy
Bonded love
The story is set in Chicago, where supernatural creatures roam the streets under the cover of night, committing murders. Since it takes place in a real city, there's less need for extensive worldbuilding, but the descriptions of the setting are rich and vivid, truly immersing you in the world. Familiar supernatural beings are used, making the fantasy element easy to visualize, and the detailed descriptions further help paint a clear picture of the creatures.
The pacing is medium, with no unnecessary filler, making the story a quick, engaging read that keeps you turning the pages. The writing style is in the third person and is very enjoyable.
It ends on an open note, with several threads leading into the next book, but thankfully, there’s no heavy cliffhanger.
Spoiler alert ⚠️
I really loved the main female character. She’s incredibly strong, fighting for what’s right, and uses her dark side (she’s a dhampir, half-vampire) for good. She dives headfirst into every challenge. This is in sharp contrast to the male love interest, who runs from his past and tries to escape it. However, together with her, Izzy, and Otto, he eventually faces the fight. What I loved most is that she is the one who ends up saving everyone, instead of the male hero.
The demon corgi was amazing as well! I desperately need one ❤️, though I suspect he’s actually a man disguised as a dog 🤭. We’ll likely find out in part two. Surprisingly, Izzy became my favorite character. She reminded me of a friend I recently made, and who wouldn’t want a friend like that? I’m really rooting for her and Otto to have a happy ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2024
Death and Sweet Temptations is the first book in a series about a half-vampire, half-human, corporate baddie by day and monster hunter by night!! Alex Bain is a captivating FMC from the start and I binged this book so fast. I enjoyed this book immensely, especially the steamy romance with the mysterious and broody Lucas and the amazing friendship between Alex and her strong, protective bestie Izzie. Also, Argo the corgi was freaking delightful, and was one quirky-cute element among so many others that made this story one of the most unique paranormal romance books I’ve read yet!!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
March 4, 2024
ARC - I really enjoy the way Kristen writes, enough detail to really imagine what you’re reading but not so much that it drags. There’s a wee bit of spice and a budding romance that left me on the edge of my seat! I think the book becomes more intriguing the more you read & learn about each character and what their stories are and where they are headed. I’m a super spice lover with preference on THE MOST detail 🤣 so I’m hoping there will be more in the next book but, will be invested all the same if not! Impatiently waiting as patient as I can for the next book.
February 26, 2024
Kudos to this new young author, whose first novel, Death and Sweet Temptations, totally captivated me from the very first paragraph, where her imagery deftly painted the subtlety of the setting and the heroine, while presenting an air of foreboding and mystery. The intriguing plot slowly and carefully unfolded, with plenty of flashbacks and character dialogue to ensure that the reader fully understood the history of both the characters and the magical world. There were plenty of plot twists and turns and many suspenseful moments that kept me reading long past my bedtime.
I grew to truly care about the characters - strong yet vulnerable Alex, whose character was enriched and enhanced by the loving and lively interplay between her and her female counterpart, Sargeant Izzie Bliss. This sometimes dark tale was lightened and warmed by Argo, the lovable “pet” corgi, who was there just when Alex (and the reader) needed him. He was truly a delightful addition to the found family of characters.
I found myself intrigued by the mystery and suspense of the slowly unraveling magical (and romantic) plot, fascinated by the corporate world of candy production and supply chains, and cheering for characters I came to care about as they battled against the evil machinations of the magical underworld.
I am eagerly awaiting the next Alex Bain book. Thanks to the author for such a fun read!
I grew to truly care about the characters - strong yet vulnerable Alex, whose character was enriched and enhanced by the loving and lively interplay between her and her female counterpart, Sargeant Izzie Bliss. This sometimes dark tale was lightened and warmed by Argo, the lovable “pet” corgi, who was there just when Alex (and the reader) needed him. He was truly a delightful addition to the found family of characters.
I found myself intrigued by the mystery and suspense of the slowly unraveling magical (and romantic) plot, fascinated by the corporate world of candy production and supply chains, and cheering for characters I came to care about as they battled against the evil machinations of the magical underworld.
I am eagerly awaiting the next Alex Bain book. Thanks to the author for such a fun read!
March 15, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Vibes: badass Devil Wears Prada by day and the action of Blade by night with some sprinkles of paranormal romance of Twilight and Underworld
Death and Sweet Temptations follows Alex Bain VP by day, badass monster hunter by night. What strong FMC is complete without her bestie and fuzzy companion? Sergeant Isabella “Izzy” Bliss and Alex Blain make the perfect monster fighting duo to keep the streets of Chicago safe! Gourmet loving Corgi from Hell, Argo, keeps Alex well fed after nights of fighting crime and supplies endless witty banter and snarky comments about her love life. In a world of mystery, magic and murder, Alex finds herself in the path of leaning into her half-vampire side to face these perilous foes.
Trigger warnings: mental health, grief, loss, murders/horrible deaths, violence
Tropes: Close proximity, they fall fast
Likes: the imagery, Argo (the lovable Corgi from hell), found family, the witty banter.
Dislikes: I personally prefer more slow burn. The main love interests have magnetic energy and fell fast. It makes sense for their story.
Shoutout to the lovable Argo! His humor is top tier. His voice is a mix of Bartok from Anastasia and Panic from Hercules. This book was a super easy read and immersive from the world building. The details in the descriptors really set the scenes well.
Quotes:
“Remember, it’s our choices, not our origins, that define us. You’ve inspired me to make the right choices, at long last.” -Lucas
“..And you, my sweet girl, you do not give up. It is not your nature. So, if the worst comes to pass, you will bear it..and you will be stronger for it.” -Izzie
Vibes: badass Devil Wears Prada by day and the action of Blade by night with some sprinkles of paranormal romance of Twilight and Underworld
Death and Sweet Temptations follows Alex Bain VP by day, badass monster hunter by night. What strong FMC is complete without her bestie and fuzzy companion? Sergeant Isabella “Izzy” Bliss and Alex Blain make the perfect monster fighting duo to keep the streets of Chicago safe! Gourmet loving Corgi from Hell, Argo, keeps Alex well fed after nights of fighting crime and supplies endless witty banter and snarky comments about her love life. In a world of mystery, magic and murder, Alex finds herself in the path of leaning into her half-vampire side to face these perilous foes.
Trigger warnings: mental health, grief, loss, murders/horrible deaths, violence
Tropes: Close proximity, they fall fast
Likes: the imagery, Argo (the lovable Corgi from hell), found family, the witty banter.
Dislikes: I personally prefer more slow burn. The main love interests have magnetic energy and fell fast. It makes sense for their story.
Shoutout to the lovable Argo! His humor is top tier. His voice is a mix of Bartok from Anastasia and Panic from Hercules. This book was a super easy read and immersive from the world building. The details in the descriptors really set the scenes well.
Quotes:
“Remember, it’s our choices, not our origins, that define us. You’ve inspired me to make the right choices, at long last.” -Lucas
“..And you, my sweet girl, you do not give up. It is not your nature. So, if the worst comes to pass, you will bear it..and you will be stronger for it.” -Izzie
May 9, 2024
First of all: there’s a freaking talking Corgi in it - of course I had to read it.
With the writing style I was struggling a little bit - sometimes, things (which I found not vital for the story) were described very precisely.. then again, at times, I wished for more explanation/details/building suspense (e.g. finding the murderer/finding Mattias)
I did like the story and world building overall. The FMC Alex is badass and kicks ass! I hope that there will be lot of disclosure about Alex/her parents/powers etc in the future.
Alex & Lucas‘ lacked chemistry in my opinion (and I don‘t need a slow burn in every book I read). I just felt that their relationship(?) felt kinda .. rushed
Mild spoiler ahead:
I felt like Alex & Lucas haven‘t had one proper dialogue but she’s head over heels in love with him already? Attraction is a thing - I get it - but I couldn’t describe Lucas in 3 adjectives if I’d had to because I feel we didn’t really get to know him (expect parts of his history).
I‘d probably read the next book, because of the story/world/characters (especially Argo/Otto!!)
With the writing style I was struggling a little bit - sometimes, things (which I found not vital for the story) were described very precisely.. then again, at times, I wished for more explanation/details/building suspense (e.g. finding the murderer/finding Mattias)
I did like the story and world building overall. The FMC Alex is badass and kicks ass! I hope that there will be lot of disclosure about Alex/her parents/powers etc in the future.
Alex & Lucas‘ lacked chemistry in my opinion (and I don‘t need a slow burn in every book I read). I just felt that their relationship(?) felt kinda .. rushed
Mild spoiler ahead:
I felt like Alex & Lucas haven‘t had one proper dialogue but she’s head over heels in love with him already? Attraction is a thing - I get it - but I couldn’t describe Lucas in 3 adjectives if I’d had to because I feel we didn’t really get to know him (expect parts of his history).
I‘d probably read the next book, because of the story/world/characters (especially Argo/Otto!!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
I accidentally read book 2 before reading this one, so I just had to backtrack and see how everything started!
Alex Bain is a bad@ss. It was nice to see glimpses into her past and understand why she tries to stay so controlled. Lucas is an intriguing distraction. Although we get some of his backstory to explain how he came to be associated (entangled) in vampire business, I still want to know more about him. It’s a shame that circumstances from Lucas’s past has him leaving Alex behind while he returns to South America to determine if there is any truth to the rumor that his sister is alive. It’s a shame that his time with Alex - and their chemistry- is cut short, but it does set things up to be emotionally impactful in book 2 when Alex finds herself spending time with someone very surprising.
I love the fast paced storyline, and the detailed descriptions of the fight scenes. This was so much fun to read, and I can’t wait for more of this series!
Alex Bain is a bad@ss. It was nice to see glimpses into her past and understand why she tries to stay so controlled. Lucas is an intriguing distraction. Although we get some of his backstory to explain how he came to be associated (entangled) in vampire business, I still want to know more about him. It’s a shame that circumstances from Lucas’s past has him leaving Alex behind while he returns to South America to determine if there is any truth to the rumor that his sister is alive. It’s a shame that his time with Alex - and their chemistry- is cut short, but it does set things up to be emotionally impactful in book 2 when Alex finds herself spending time with someone very surprising.
I love the fast paced storyline, and the detailed descriptions of the fight scenes. This was so much fun to read, and I can’t wait for more of this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2024
This book was thrilling! A story of a half-vampire hunting vampires with a police officer sidekick and loyal demon dog? I'm here for it. There is a lot of depth in the characters Coar created. This story is intense, with the occasional break for humor, which was a nice reprieve. The FMC is seriously a badass. The hunky MMC is certainly swoon worthy he has his magic, which definitely sets him a part, but I feel like he is very emotionally driven, whereas the FMC is logical and strategic. Regardless, their golden, growing relationship is complex and suspenseful. And the spice was very, very nice! 🥵
The loyal "dog" companion has filled me with intrigue at that last part of the book. Iykyk. I have my suspicions on where this goes next, but I will have to wait and see if I am right in book 2. Bravo Kristen Coar, and thanks for giving me a serious book hangover.
The loyal "dog" companion has filled me with intrigue at that last part of the book. Iykyk. I have my suspicions on where this goes next, but I will have to wait and see if I am right in book 2. Bravo Kristen Coar, and thanks for giving me a serious book hangover.
March 20, 2024
ARC provided by Kristen Coar in exchange for an honest review. If paranormal romance with vampires, warlocks and demon corgis are your thing, look no further. The main character, Alex, is a strong female who is a supply chain expert by day but fights the city’s beasts at night. This book pairs romance and fantasy together perfectly in my opinion. It seemed like a romcom at first but then suddenly there are vampires battling and warlocks throwing fire.
The descriptive narrative in this book was excellent and was beautifully written. Kristen’s writing style is truly poetic even if it is about demon corgis.
I highly recommend!
March 24, 2024
First of all, thank you so much to Kristen for reaching out and gifting me an e-arc of this novel!
This was a very fun read. I enjoyed the plot quite a bit, a kickass FMC who is a strong business girly by day and fierce monster hunter by night. And I adored Argo- the charming corgi sidekick.
I will say that the world building is very, VERY descriptive. It made it a little harder for me to get into the rhythm of the writing because it’s so heavy on the descriptions. But once I got used to it, it went swimmingly.
Kristen really does set the scene very well.
I am interested to see what the next book holds!
This was a very fun read. I enjoyed the plot quite a bit, a kickass FMC who is a strong business girly by day and fierce monster hunter by night. And I adored Argo- the charming corgi sidekick.
I will say that the world building is very, VERY descriptive. It made it a little harder for me to get into the rhythm of the writing because it’s so heavy on the descriptions. But once I got used to it, it went swimmingly.
Kristen really does set the scene very well.
I am interested to see what the next book holds!
March 18, 2024
Death and Sweet Temptations is a fast paced, steamy read from beginning to end. Kristen Coar creates bold characters with empathy and paints an enthralling urban world with vivid descriptions and witty dialog. An easy binge read that keeps the reader’s interest and leaves you intrigued and excited for the next installment.
Part of me wishes the story would have been a bigger epic with a slower burn between Alex and Lucas. More workplace flirting and a bigger first encounter. It all went by so fast! For my first vampire read, this was super fun, and I will def read the next one! The demon corgi is to die for!!
Part of me wishes the story would have been a bigger epic with a slower burn between Alex and Lucas. More workplace flirting and a bigger first encounter. It all went by so fast! For my first vampire read, this was super fun, and I will def read the next one! The demon corgi is to die for!!
July 1, 2024
This book was definitely more than I was expecting. At 1st Argo was a bit much but as the story unfolded I got it and it didn't bother me as much. I love that the story is based around a strong female and her friend is also a strong woman. No women in distress here! They stand on business. I can't wait to see what else is about to happen and really know more about what Alex has in store and more of what Argo is.
did-not-finish
December 7, 2024DNF
Unfortunately this one is just not grabbing my attention. The first few pages were very rough, with too many adjectives and flowery language, but it does smooth out after a bit.
I was expecting more paranormal, action-y stuff so all the focus on Alex's corporate day job just wasn't working for my mood. Also, personal preference but I'm not really a fan of talking animal companions so I wasn't warming up to Argo, I'm sorry.
Unfortunately this one is just not grabbing my attention. The first few pages were very rough, with too many adjectives and flowery language, but it does smooth out after a bit.
I was expecting more paranormal, action-y stuff so all the focus on Alex's corporate day job just wasn't working for my mood. Also, personal preference but I'm not really a fan of talking animal companions so I wasn't warming up to Argo, I'm sorry.
March 22, 2024
I really enjoyed this book!
Amazing mix of Urban Famtasy and Steamy Romance.
I found it at bit hard to get into at the beginning, but once it got going I couldn't put it down.
The characters are really well written, and easy to fall in love with. And where can I order a Corgi from Hell???
Amazing mix of Urban Famtasy and Steamy Romance.
I found it at bit hard to get into at the beginning, but once it got going I couldn't put it down.
The characters are really well written, and easy to fall in love with. And where can I order a Corgi from Hell???
August 25, 2025
Fantastic read!!
What a read! This reminds me of the Harry Dresden and Kate Daniel’s series both of which I love!! There’s tons of action, a wonderful blend of norm and supernatural worlds coexisting side by side and a hint of romance too. A wise cracking yet series cop, a dhampir who works in corporate America by day and hunts by night and her side kick a corgi who is more than just your average dog. This is a can’t miss! I absolutely loved it!!
What a read! This reminds me of the Harry Dresden and Kate Daniel’s series both of which I love!! There’s tons of action, a wonderful blend of norm and supernatural worlds coexisting side by side and a hint of romance too. A wise cracking yet series cop, a dhampir who works in corporate America by day and hunts by night and her side kick a corgi who is more than just your average dog. This is a can’t miss! I absolutely loved it!!
March 8, 2024
A great read for any paranormal romance fan! Vampires, warlocks, found family, spice, not to mention a bad a** female protagonist and a talking corgi, what’s not to love?!
March 16, 2024
I enjoyed this read, I loved alex and Izzie relationship how they supported eachother. Argo was a cute corgi imp from hell that can cook more than I can 😅 his devotion to Alex was so sweet. This book did take me a bit to get into it however I understand that being a fantasy book there needs to be world and character building. I would have liked a bit more relationship building/growth between Lucas and Alex before they jumped right into it. All in all I will Read the next books to see where the story goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2024
For the girls who always loved Buffy
If you are like me and grew up loving Buffy the Vampire Slayer, then Alex scratches the same itch. Tough but with humanity you are drawn into her dual life and the danger she fights. Her dynamic with Lucas is full of delicious tension. Awesome read with amazing fight scenes.
If you are like me and grew up loving Buffy the Vampire Slayer, then Alex scratches the same itch. Tough but with humanity you are drawn into her dual life and the danger she fights. Her dynamic with Lucas is full of delicious tension. Awesome read with amazing fight scenes.
February 18, 2024
Death and Sweet Temptations" surprised me. It's got that big world-building feel I like in epic fantasies, set right in modern Chicago. Alex Bain is fighting monsters and trying to live a normal life. The pages pratcially turned on their own. The story's straightforward, not too fancy, but with excellent writing and a mix of detailed settings with supernatural elements.
February 20, 2024
Great first novel for this author. Intriguing story line, likeable characters and I'm looking forward to the next one now
March 31, 2024
This was a fun and easy read. It took me a bit to connect to the characters but once I did I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The writing style reminds me of the sookie stackhouse series. It has a bit of romance, action, and paranormal activity. I do wish there was more of a budding romance. I would have liked more of a lead up to the two main characters falling for each other. My favorite character by far is Izzy. I loved her and Alex’s bond. I enjoyed the banter in this book. Plus there is the cutest magical corgi to just round things off. Looking forward to see where Alex’s story leads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2024
I LOVED this book! Obsessed! I was literally hooked from the first few pages of it. It has action, a badass main female character, vampires, good banter, humor, and so much more! This is definitely one of my favorite books of the year. I can't wait for the second one to come out.
April 15, 2024
Spice rating: 2 peppers
DEATH AND SWEET TEMPTATIONS is the first in an urban fantasy romance series, which will be perfect for readers who love descriptive writing, rich world-building, monster hunting and a dash of mystery.
It follows Alex Bain, a businesswoman by day and demon hunter by night. Alex herself is half vampire, which added a lot of complexity to her feelings about herself, and which also added a quirk that I personally enjoy in monster-hunting stories. Monsters hunting monsters makes things so interesting! Alex acts as a sort of vigilante in her area, and indeed the story revolves around a new series of murders that Alex is looking into alongside her best friend and her demon corgi. Except her dual lives merge when the sexy consultant from her day job is implicated in the case,and he may or may not be more involved in the supernatural than Alex realizes.
This book is the perfect binge. Once I got into the heart of the mystery, it was really hard to put down. The supernatural lore is brilliantly done, and there is so much great potential to find out more and dive deeper in the sequels. Alex was a great protagonist, easily relatable with a great balance of humor and introspection. I also really enjoyed her friendship with Izzy! We need more positive female friendships, and the bond between these two women was easily my favorite aspect of the book. As a dog mom, I also really loved Argo! A demon pup who looks like a corgi and loves to cook is not something I thought I'd ever read, but I loved him so much. He was so protective of Alex, and his dialogues were hilarious!
Surprisingly enough, the romance was the thing I enjoyed least. That between Lucas and Alex is an instant attraction, which I don't mind when it's paired with tension before the feelings kick in. Unfortunately, there weren't enough scenes between Lucas and Alex to make their feelings and romance believable to me, so I didn't feel as invested as I would have liked. I did, however, like Lucas as a character. He is very much a tortured hero type, and it was interesting to learn of his past. The author did a great job of building up his future story arc, and I am very excited to see where this goes!
Overall, this was a great urban fantasy read! It's fast, and it keeps the reader glued to the pages. Very excited for the next book!
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
DEATH AND SWEET TEMPTATIONS is the first in an urban fantasy romance series, which will be perfect for readers who love descriptive writing, rich world-building, monster hunting and a dash of mystery.
It follows Alex Bain, a businesswoman by day and demon hunter by night. Alex herself is half vampire, which added a lot of complexity to her feelings about herself, and which also added a quirk that I personally enjoy in monster-hunting stories. Monsters hunting monsters makes things so interesting! Alex acts as a sort of vigilante in her area, and indeed the story revolves around a new series of murders that Alex is looking into alongside her best friend and her demon corgi. Except her dual lives merge when the sexy consultant from her day job is implicated in the case,and he may or may not be more involved in the supernatural than Alex realizes.
This book is the perfect binge. Once I got into the heart of the mystery, it was really hard to put down. The supernatural lore is brilliantly done, and there is so much great potential to find out more and dive deeper in the sequels. Alex was a great protagonist, easily relatable with a great balance of humor and introspection. I also really enjoyed her friendship with Izzy! We need more positive female friendships, and the bond between these two women was easily my favorite aspect of the book. As a dog mom, I also really loved Argo! A demon pup who looks like a corgi and loves to cook is not something I thought I'd ever read, but I loved him so much. He was so protective of Alex, and his dialogues were hilarious!
Surprisingly enough, the romance was the thing I enjoyed least. That between Lucas and Alex is an instant attraction, which I don't mind when it's paired with tension before the feelings kick in. Unfortunately, there weren't enough scenes between Lucas and Alex to make their feelings and romance believable to me, so I didn't feel as invested as I would have liked. I did, however, like Lucas as a character. He is very much a tortured hero type, and it was interesting to learn of his past. The author did a great job of building up his future story arc, and I am very excited to see where this goes!
Overall, this was a great urban fantasy read! It's fast, and it keeps the reader glued to the pages. Very excited for the next book!
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
April 3, 2024
Remember, it’s our choices, not our origins, that define us.
A truer line couldn't sum up this book for me.
The story and world building in this book start from page one. You're brought into Alex's world and into her found family of Izzie and, of course, Argo, her Corgi from hell. You slowly learn of Alex's fighting abilities and why she is the duality she is that and what forged her.
The beautiful relationship that Izzie and Alex have is one built out of shared respect and love, having each other's back through more than a decade of fighting the darkness forged their unbreakable bond. You don't learn how Argo came into Alex's life yet, but you are shown a glimpse of his knowledge, and I can't wait to learn more secrets from him. The quips are fun and keep things light when it could have been a trudge in darkness. The additional character towards the end, I think, will add more depth to the next stories as well.
This book was an excellent and quick read that once I got started, I couldn't put down. The writing was fluid and uncomplicated in a way that led to the ease of the read. I really can't wait to see where this story goes next.
A truer line couldn't sum up this book for me.
The story and world building in this book start from page one. You're brought into Alex's world and into her found family of Izzie and, of course, Argo, her Corgi from hell. You slowly learn of Alex's fighting abilities and why she is the duality she is that and what forged her.
The beautiful relationship that Izzie and Alex have is one built out of shared respect and love, having each other's back through more than a decade of fighting the darkness forged their unbreakable bond. You don't learn how Argo came into Alex's life yet, but you are shown a glimpse of his knowledge, and I can't wait to learn more secrets from him. The quips are fun and keep things light when it could have been a trudge in darkness. The additional character towards the end, I think, will add more depth to the next stories as well.
This book was an excellent and quick read that once I got started, I couldn't put down. The writing was fluid and uncomplicated in a way that led to the ease of the read. I really can't wait to see where this story goes next.
March 30, 2024
I enjoyed the strong FMC. A lot of great parallels with Harry Dresden, books by Jeaniene Frost and Patricia Briggs with a dash of Anita Blake. Excited to continue to read this series. Oh, and there is a corgi 🥰.
March 30, 2024
I ate this book up in one day. Truly so good. Spicy but tasteful. Badass FMC. Fabulous support characters. Can’t wait for the next book!
April 2, 2024
It's like the female version of Blade, but with a bit of The Office mixed in.
This is an easy read and the author takes well known lore and puts a very unique spin on it. I specifically enjoy the mystery elements woven in and trying to figure it out (I got it wrong btw!) and the action scenes woven in. Also, I think there are one or two tough subjects she's woven into this story and she's handled it with grace and care. Interested to see where she takes this series!
This is an easy read and the author takes well known lore and puts a very unique spin on it. I specifically enjoy the mystery elements woven in and trying to figure it out (I got it wrong btw!) and the action scenes woven in. Also, I think there are one or two tough subjects she's woven into this story and she's handled it with grace and care. Interested to see where she takes this series!
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