CONSTANTINE, Siren Breeders, Book 2
by Marata Eros
I have often freely espoused that I have a ‘thing’ for unrepentant bad boys and Constantine has always been at the top of that Literary Bad Boy List! So, when I say that I have been waiting for this book forever—believe it!
I personally despise ‘jonesing’ for something because more often, than not; the ‘thing’ one obsesses about turns out to be a huge disappointment, once it is realized. This book is NOT one of them!
The book description provides a more than adequate synopsis of what one should expect, so I will only provide my humble thoughts and opinions.
Constantine is the sequel to EMBER, Siren Breeders, Book 1. The titular character has acted on a decision and is now dealing with the consequences. The irony here is that Con’s typical decisions and thought processes are consistently self-serving and yet this one moment where his actions benefit another; he is condemned and hunted down like the proverbial sociopath that he is... it’s hilarious.
The reader also meets a few new and interesting characters and revisit familiar personalities from previous books, which is one of the great things about serials in general; there are many sneak peeks into the lives of characters we’ve come to know.
As in real-world situations and scenarios, the fictional world’s characters ‘turn corners’—meaning, they resolve to do things, have epiphanies and make choices that alter the course of their stories. Constantine is no different. It’s great to see him want to do and be a different Con, in his own sadistic and twisted way! =;-)
The world-building in this series is phenomenal! I have said this before and it bears repeating—the detail described within each scene is saturated with lush, vivid colors and clear and concise imagery. I just love the way Ms. Eros sets the scenes in her books.
The action and battle scenes are depicted in such a way that nothing is left up to the reader’s imagination. One can feel ‘talons as they dig into flesh’ or the ‘sensation of drying blood on raw and inflamed skin as it seeps from a gaping, but closing wound’. I am paraphrasing here, but this type of visual, in my mind’s eye, is what drew me to this writer’s work and it’s what keeps me engaged and clamoring for any stories she creates.
There are a few sexually explicit scenes in this book; some are consensual and others not so much... But there are consequences for such actions, which is satisfying to read. Let’s face it—this is a series about procreating, finding mates and seeking an HEA. There WILL BE sex and scenarios that mimic reality.
As in real world situations, people are vulnerable from sexual attacks or nefarious incidents the minute they step outside their homes (which is a sad statement in itself). Some of this deplorable activity, has unfortunately, breached the sanctity of the home, as well. It is no different in fiction! Authors draw on experiences in real-world settings to create stories readers could relate to, hold their interest and ultimately enjoy. Ms. Eros clearly provides a warning to those whose sensibilities would otherwise be offended—if you fall into that category—just don’t read the book. JMHO.
Although Ms. Eros provides a short synopsis of each character and their roles during the course of the saga, to fully appreciate the storyline, its character’s involvement and personal growth; one should read The Druid Breeders Series (Books 1-3 are bundled and are currently available for a reduced price) and EMBER, the first book of The Siren Breeders.
This was first and foremost, a most anticipated and a very, very satisfying read! I will attempt to become the perfect Zen practitioner while waiting for the next book—not promising anything, but I’ll try... LOL!