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Phoenix Fire aka Phoenix Fury #1
Burn For Me
"Eden's unsurpassed creativity shines once again!" --Larissa IoneUnder FireEve Bradley was undercover looking for a story, not a cause. But something about the man they called Subject Thirteen got her involved. The scientists said he was a devil, and they had a decent Terrifying power. A bad attitude. And looks that could lead anyone to sin. . .Cain O'Connor knows the minute he catches her candy scent that Eve could drive him wild. But she's a threat--in a way no one has been for him in years. She's safer away from him, too. But with a powerful conspiracy determined to shut Eve up for good, there's no time to argue. All they can do is trust their instincts--and their hearts. . .Praise for Cynthia Eden's novels"Cynthia's on my must-buy list." --Angie Fox"A fast-paced, sexy thrill ride you won't want to miss." --Christine Feehan on Eternal Hunter
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2014
188 people are currently reading
3325 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
311 books6,803 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 You Make me Hungry Stars
Spoilers
“You smell like fucking candy . . .” She stilled. Now her heartbeat was the one racing too fast. “You make me . . .” His voice dropped, but she caught the ragged growl of “hungry.”-Cain
Burn For Me, the 1st book in the Phoenix Fire series, was awesome. I love me some Paranormal Romances. They are like my first true love, the genre that got me hooked on reading. This book had everything I like about PNR. A sexy, kick ass Hero, a sassy brave heroine, action, Paranormal powers, and lots of super hot sex! I liked Eve. I liked that she spoke her mind, fought back when she was in trouble, and tried to do what was right no matter how much danager it put her in. As much as I liked Eve I loved Cain. He was so protective, dominant, badass and just everything that screams yummy alpha!
“I’m the monster in the dark. The big, fucking bad wolf. I’ve seen hell, and I’ve brought hell to earth.”-Cain
“I don’t like the fear.” She felt it. Wouldn’t lie. “But I want you”—Eve’s lashes lifted, and she stared into his eyes—“in spite of that, not because of it.”-Eve
I loved the plot of the mad scientist with a god complex doing evil experiments on paranormal prisoners for the government. Dr. Richard Wyatt was super creepy, insane, and evil to the core. A perfect villain. I will say that poor Cain dies a lot in this book. I lost count. Good thing he is a phoenix. I really liked the secondary characters Trace and Ryder. I'm really hoping Cain and Eve are able to find a way to save Trace! I loved the action and the world set up. I really loved the ending. Soooo sweet. I can't wait to get to the next book!
“I opened my eyes”—he pulled away from her and stood with his back to her—“saw you and thought . . .” What? What had he thought? “Mine,” -Cain
Spoilers
“You smell like fucking candy . . .” She stilled. Now her heartbeat was the one racing too fast. “You make me . . .” His voice dropped, but she caught the ragged growl of “hungry.”-Cain
Burn For Me, the 1st book in the Phoenix Fire series, was awesome. I love me some Paranormal Romances. They are like my first true love, the genre that got me hooked on reading. This book had everything I like about PNR. A sexy, kick ass Hero, a sassy brave heroine, action, Paranormal powers, and lots of super hot sex! I liked Eve. I liked that she spoke her mind, fought back when she was in trouble, and tried to do what was right no matter how much danager it put her in. As much as I liked Eve I loved Cain. He was so protective, dominant, badass and just everything that screams yummy alpha!
“I’m the monster in the dark. The big, fucking bad wolf. I’ve seen hell, and I’ve brought hell to earth.”-Cain
“I don’t like the fear.” She felt it. Wouldn’t lie. “But I want you”—Eve’s lashes lifted, and she stared into his eyes—“in spite of that, not because of it.”-Eve
I loved the plot of the mad scientist with a god complex doing evil experiments on paranormal prisoners for the government. Dr. Richard Wyatt was super creepy, insane, and evil to the core. A perfect villain. I will say that poor Cain dies a lot in this book. I lost count. Good thing he is a phoenix. I really liked the secondary characters Trace and Ryder. I'm really hoping Cain and Eve are able to find a way to save Trace! I loved the action and the world set up. I really loved the ending. Soooo sweet. I can't wait to get to the next book!
“I opened my eyes”—he pulled away from her and stood with his back to her—“saw you and thought . . .” What? What had he thought? “Mine,” -Cain
February 10, 2014
5 Fiery, Blazing, Scorching and anything else that's means HOT Stars!!!
So when I started reading this book, I thought I new what to expect. An alpha male and since this is a bit of an urban fantasy a kickass heroine who new when to let the hero take charge, and last but definitely the most important an exciting plot. This is what I expect when I read one of Cynthia Eden's books. This book was definitely that and so much more, now it's been awhile since I've read PNR, and adult PNR at that. So excuse me if I sound a bit green, but I have to be honest. I have never read one quite like this before...
In a good way!
Eve Bradley (our heroine) is an undercover reporter, looking for her big break. She infiltrates a private facility, this facility's main objective is to help and study willing supernaturals. How willing these subjects are is the question...
The first test subject meets, Cain O'Connor is definitely unwilling. But don't let the fact that the he is in chains make you think is in anyway helpless. I don't want to go into specifics and tell you what Cain is and what he can do, because I went in blind and I enjoyed the book because of it. Telling you would ruin it.
I can't say I was ever bored while reading this book, I'll be honest and tell you that the plot isn't new, but it was executed perfectly! There's nothing wrong with recycling a plot. But it does need to be written in a fresh way, meaning you put a twist in it but the foundation stays the same, so believe me when I tell you that this book was refreshing!
Now if you'd like to find out what happens in the book, you'll have to read it because you won't find it in my review.
So when I started reading this book, I thought I new what to expect. An alpha male and since this is a bit of an urban fantasy a kickass heroine who new when to let the hero take charge, and last but definitely the most important an exciting plot. This is what I expect when I read one of Cynthia Eden's books. This book was definitely that and so much more, now it's been awhile since I've read PNR, and adult PNR at that. So excuse me if I sound a bit green, but I have to be honest. I have never read one quite like this before...
In a good way!
Eve Bradley (our heroine) is an undercover reporter, looking for her big break. She infiltrates a private facility, this facility's main objective is to help and study willing supernaturals. How willing these subjects are is the question...
The first test subject meets, Cain O'Connor is definitely unwilling. But don't let the fact that the he is in chains make you think is in anyway helpless. I don't want to go into specifics and tell you what Cain is and what he can do, because I went in blind and I enjoyed the book because of it. Telling you would ruin it.
I can't say I was ever bored while reading this book, I'll be honest and tell you that the plot isn't new, but it was executed perfectly! There's nothing wrong with recycling a plot. But it does need to be written in a fresh way, meaning you put a twist in it but the foundation stays the same, so believe me when I tell you that this book was refreshing!
Now if you'd like to find out what happens in the book, you'll have to read it because you won't find it in my review.
November 1, 2019
4 BURNING stars
Eve Bradley is a reporter who works undercover in a research facility called Genesis.The lab does experiments on supernaturals , every torture being conducted by an evil doctor with a God complex called Richard Wyatt.
Once there she witnesses how a man-subject Thirteen - is tortured and killed (only to come back to life) and decides to help him escape and to uncover this madness to the world.
she feels an instant pull to Cain - the tortured man- and so does he
"You smell like fucking candy..."
She stilled.Now her heartbeat was the one racing too fast.
"You make me...."His voice dropped,but she caught the ragged growl of "hungry."
Eve gets caught up in this madness and from reporter/fake doctor she becomes hunted by the evil doctor, and who better choice to help her and be by her side then Cain - a supernatural .But Eve is not so weak and helpless as a regular human.
This two are explosive together! I loved both of them and the secondary characters too.
Eve has a troubled past, but she is strong , ambitious, smart and doesn't back down even if Cain tries to scare her away from him a few times.
"I'm the monster in the dark.The big,fucking bad wolf. I've seen hell,and I've brought hell to earth."
Cain has some trust issues.. ( is understandable) but the need he has for Eve cannot keep him away from her... sometimes he is a bit of a dick , but most of the time I loved him and my heart broke for him every time he died ( must have been over 20 times ).
I liked Ryder and Trace too, and I must admit I am a bit disappointed that the author doesn't give Trace his own book.
Overall I enjoyed this book very much!! very intense !
Eve Bradley is a reporter who works undercover in a research facility called Genesis.The lab does experiments on supernaturals , every torture being conducted by an evil doctor with a God complex called Richard Wyatt.
Once there she witnesses how a man-subject Thirteen - is tortured and killed (only to come back to life) and decides to help him escape and to uncover this madness to the world.
she feels an instant pull to Cain - the tortured man- and so does he
"You smell like fucking candy..."
She stilled.Now her heartbeat was the one racing too fast.
"You make me...."His voice dropped,but she caught the ragged growl of "hungry."
Eve gets caught up in this madness and from reporter/fake doctor she becomes hunted by the evil doctor, and who better choice to help her and be by her side then Cain - a supernatural .But Eve is not so weak and helpless as a regular human.
This two are explosive together! I loved both of them and the secondary characters too.
Eve has a troubled past, but she is strong , ambitious, smart and doesn't back down even if Cain tries to scare her away from him a few times.
"I'm the monster in the dark.The big,fucking bad wolf. I've seen hell,and I've brought hell to earth."
Cain has some trust issues.. ( is understandable) but the need he has for Eve cannot keep him away from her... sometimes he is a bit of a dick , but most of the time I loved him and my heart broke for him every time he died ( must have been over 20 times ).
I liked Ryder and Trace too, and I must admit I am a bit disappointed that the author doesn't give Trace his own book.
Overall I enjoyed this book very much!! very intense !
August 19, 2019
This book has been on my TBR for sometime now. I received copies in both paperback and ebook format from the author, but never got around to reading it until now. Getting the audio book from Audible Escape was an added bonus.
Burn for Me by Cynthia Eden is the first book in the Phoenix Fire paranormal series. I have read a few books by this author and I enjoyed every one of them. I found myself pulled into the story and I was caught up in the world the author created. The suspense, action, and characters made this a great page turning experience.
This differs from my usual paranormal reads. The story features shifters and vampires; however, there were a few unique supernatural beings.
I found the world Eden created fascinating. Paranormal beings have made themselves known to the human world and are growing in numbers. The humans feel threatened by their existence, but there are those who want to study them, hoping to create an army of super soldiers who cannot die.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters. Eve is a reporter who went undercover to gather information about the top government secret program called Genesis. What she discovered would change her life dramatically.
In the first part of the story, Eve proved brave and tenacious. However, sometimes her acts of bravery turned into acts of stupidity.
She had a past that shrouded in secrets. It is clear she is not human, but the story never revealed what she was until near the end. It had me guessing throughout the story as to her true nature.
Cain O’Connor is not your typical shifter. Captured and held captive in the same facility that Eve had undertaken her undercover assignment. It was in this facility that they subjected the paranormal beings to experimentation and torture.
I loved getting to know Cain. His unique abilities forced him into the dark side each time he used them. Eve was the only one who had the power to save him the dark side.
Wyatt is the scientist responsible for carrying out the unspeakable horrors under the guise of experiments on the paranormal beings. Evil and insane, which made him the perfect villain. Up on learning why he is so evil, I had some sympathy for him, but those feelings were fleeting.
The secondary characters helped to drive the plot and made things interesting. I had a particular liking for Trace, a werewolf and Ryder, a vampire. I would love to learn more about them.
The romance was hot in every sense of the word. Although, not a big fan of their romance, it worked for the story. They could not get enough of each other. You would expect that being chased by a mad scientist and his goons would put a damper on their steamy connection, but it had the opposite effect.
The story was interesting. It started out on a high note and kept that momentum to the end. Danger lurked in every corner. I found some events monotonous, but despite this, I still had a good time with the story.
Narration
Jillian Macie was a new to me narrator. I enjoyed listening to her. She brought the characters to life, and she captured their voices well.
Conclusion/Recommendation
I am looking forward to the next book in the series, as I am eager for Ryder’s story. Burn for Me provided the perfect blend of romance and suspense. Fans of paranormal, romance and suspense would enjoy this tale.
Burn for Me by Cynthia Eden is the first book in the Phoenix Fire paranormal series. I have read a few books by this author and I enjoyed every one of them. I found myself pulled into the story and I was caught up in the world the author created. The suspense, action, and characters made this a great page turning experience.
This differs from my usual paranormal reads. The story features shifters and vampires; however, there were a few unique supernatural beings.
I found the world Eden created fascinating. Paranormal beings have made themselves known to the human world and are growing in numbers. The humans feel threatened by their existence, but there are those who want to study them, hoping to create an army of super soldiers who cannot die.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters. Eve is a reporter who went undercover to gather information about the top government secret program called Genesis. What she discovered would change her life dramatically.
In the first part of the story, Eve proved brave and tenacious. However, sometimes her acts of bravery turned into acts of stupidity.
She had a past that shrouded in secrets. It is clear she is not human, but the story never revealed what she was until near the end. It had me guessing throughout the story as to her true nature.
Cain O’Connor is not your typical shifter. Captured and held captive in the same facility that Eve had undertaken her undercover assignment. It was in this facility that they subjected the paranormal beings to experimentation and torture.
I loved getting to know Cain. His unique abilities forced him into the dark side each time he used them. Eve was the only one who had the power to save him the dark side.
Wyatt is the scientist responsible for carrying out the unspeakable horrors under the guise of experiments on the paranormal beings. Evil and insane, which made him the perfect villain. Up on learning why he is so evil, I had some sympathy for him, but those feelings were fleeting.
The secondary characters helped to drive the plot and made things interesting. I had a particular liking for Trace, a werewolf and Ryder, a vampire. I would love to learn more about them.
The romance was hot in every sense of the word. Although, not a big fan of their romance, it worked for the story. They could not get enough of each other. You would expect that being chased by a mad scientist and his goons would put a damper on their steamy connection, but it had the opposite effect.
The story was interesting. It started out on a high note and kept that momentum to the end. Danger lurked in every corner. I found some events monotonous, but despite this, I still had a good time with the story.
Narration
Jillian Macie was a new to me narrator. I enjoyed listening to her. She brought the characters to life, and she captured their voices well.
Conclusion/Recommendation
I am looking forward to the next book in the series, as I am eager for Ryder’s story. Burn for Me provided the perfect blend of romance and suspense. Fans of paranormal, romance and suspense would enjoy this tale.
April 3, 2017
1st read 5 stars.
2nd read 4 stars.
2nd read 4 stars.
July 11, 2017
This one drug on and on. The heroine was beyond annoying. I am hesitant to read the next book in this series.
August 22, 2014
4.5 - "I'm the monster in the dark. The big, fucking bad wolf. I've seen hell, and I've bought hell to earth." Stars.
Cynthia Eden, has once again not let me down. Whether it is a romantic suspense, paranormal or a mixture of the both, she always offers up likeable characters, unusual storylines and panty-melting sexy-times. Another BIG plus for me is that a lot of her books run in series, and I am an absolute glutton when it comes to my series’.
”You want me…” “But you also want to get as far away from me as you can.”
Burn for Me, is book one in the Phoenix Fire series, it genre is paranormal through and through, but the romantic suspense is fully front and center as well. I have never been a huge reader of this genre in the past, but due to the likes of Cynthia Eden and a couple of other notable authors,
I have been dipping my toe more regularly in this pond, and I can safely say I have a permanently soggy foot now!
This book/series features all of your usual shifters, vampires etc, but more unique and unusual beings as well as lots of twists and turns, explosions, fights, thrills and spills.
Why does everything with the paranormals always have to be about blood?
I loved this book, Eve as a reporter and her endless quest for the truth was a little annoying at points. But Cain… be still my hammering heart, dominant, alpha and controlling, but in totally deliciously, dirty and sexy ways!
”You smell like fucking candy.”
I plan on spending my weekend devouring more books in this series, Ryder and Trace have stories to be told, and I can’t wait to read them!
”No matter how strong… everyone has a weakness.”
Cynthia Eden, has once again not let me down. Whether it is a romantic suspense, paranormal or a mixture of the both, she always offers up likeable characters, unusual storylines and panty-melting sexy-times. Another BIG plus for me is that a lot of her books run in series, and I am an absolute glutton when it comes to my series’.
”You want me…” “But you also want to get as far away from me as you can.”
Burn for Me, is book one in the Phoenix Fire series, it genre is paranormal through and through, but the romantic suspense is fully front and center as well. I have never been a huge reader of this genre in the past, but due to the likes of Cynthia Eden and a couple of other notable authors,
I have been dipping my toe more regularly in this pond, and I can safely say I have a permanently soggy foot now!
This book/series features all of your usual shifters, vampires etc, but more unique and unusual beings as well as lots of twists and turns, explosions, fights, thrills and spills.
Why does everything with the paranormals always have to be about blood?
I loved this book, Eve as a reporter and her endless quest for the truth was a little annoying at points. But Cain… be still my hammering heart, dominant, alpha and controlling, but in totally deliciously, dirty and sexy ways!
”You smell like fucking candy.”
I plan on spending my weekend devouring more books in this series, Ryder and Trace have stories to be told, and I can’t wait to read them!
”No matter how strong… everyone has a weakness.”
July 2, 2017
I loved this book it was so good would of read it faster but I had to work lol.
July 21, 2014
“You smell like fucking candy . . .” -Cain
Burn for me is the first book in this incredible new series by Cyntia Eden, the Phoenix series.
Even is a journalist who landed the biggest story of her life! Infiltrating a scientific project for paranormals called Genesis, she wants to uncover the truth behind the so called experiments they perform on para but what she gets isn't what she wants...
Enter Subject Thirteen, aka Cain. Cain hasn't volunteered to be a "guinea pig" for the goverment but being as powerful as he is, isn't really helping his case. He's considered "unstable" and therefore he muct be contained. But can really someone as powerful as Cain be contained?
I really loved this new world Cynthia has created! I was really excited when I found out about this series and this book was an incredible introduction to it! I have actually never read a series or even a book about Phoenixes but Cynthia managed to make me a huge fan of them! Cain was basically an immortal. He'd die but then he'd come back stronger, rising from the ashes. It was still though, really hard watching him die. Every time he died, he lost his memory and a part of himself. But Cain was strong enough to fight for his freedom and to protect what's his. Eve, on the other hand, was such a mystery. We knew enough things about her but not what really matters: what she is. I really loved the fact that the author chose to hide that from us. Of course we get some hints about her origins, such as the fact that fire can't harm her but that's not saying much.
Anyway, Cain and Eve were the most perfect couple ever! They had such a chemistry, they "ignited".
Burn for me was an amazing book with lots of paranormal creatures, many twists and turns and of course action, romance, suspense and a little mystery. The secondary characters were incredible as well. Trace, Eve's bff and a werewolf shifter, was "yummy" and then we have Ryder and his mysterious Phoenix shifter, who we don't get to meet. Ryder is an unstable vampire! Really there's something off about him, I don't know what but I guess we'll see.
All in all, this book is a muct read. The end is totally unexpected, I could never see that coming and I can't wait for more.
Highly recommended!
Burn for me is the first book in this incredible new series by Cyntia Eden, the Phoenix series.
Even is a journalist who landed the biggest story of her life! Infiltrating a scientific project for paranormals called Genesis, she wants to uncover the truth behind the so called experiments they perform on para but what she gets isn't what she wants...
Enter Subject Thirteen, aka Cain. Cain hasn't volunteered to be a "guinea pig" for the goverment but being as powerful as he is, isn't really helping his case. He's considered "unstable" and therefore he muct be contained. But can really someone as powerful as Cain be contained?
I really loved this new world Cynthia has created! I was really excited when I found out about this series and this book was an incredible introduction to it! I have actually never read a series or even a book about Phoenixes but Cynthia managed to make me a huge fan of them! Cain was basically an immortal. He'd die but then he'd come back stronger, rising from the ashes. It was still though, really hard watching him die. Every time he died, he lost his memory and a part of himself. But Cain was strong enough to fight for his freedom and to protect what's his. Eve, on the other hand, was such a mystery. We knew enough things about her but not what really matters: what she is. I really loved the fact that the author chose to hide that from us. Of course we get some hints about her origins, such as the fact that fire can't harm her but that's not saying much.
Anyway, Cain and Eve were the most perfect couple ever! They had such a chemistry, they "ignited".
Burn for me was an amazing book with lots of paranormal creatures, many twists and turns and of course action, romance, suspense and a little mystery. The secondary characters were incredible as well. Trace, Eve's bff and a werewolf shifter, was "yummy" and then we have Ryder and his mysterious Phoenix shifter, who we don't get to meet. Ryder is an unstable vampire! Really there's something off about him, I don't know what but I guess we'll see.
All in all, this book is a muct read. The end is totally unexpected, I could never see that coming and I can't wait for more.
Highly recommended!
November 16, 2014
4* maybe a little more!!! I LOVE Shifters! Im not a complete paranormal junkie, but i do love a good shifter and any character with supernatural abilities...couple that with a smokin hot bad boy and a sassy brave persistant lady...well, that works for me!
Cain is a myth, a legend...he is a Phoenix! He can die...only to be risen, stronger, fiercer, and more lethal than before. He is a prisoner...only to be saved by a rogue reporter who isnt quite what she seems! Cain may burn, but Eve...she can take the Heat and anything else thrown at her. What exactly is she???? Together they are intense and scorching!
Cynthia Eden was the first author that I dabbled in to paranormal with her After Midnight series and I can say that this new series is just a hot and has drawn me in! Not only does this have great superpower characters, but a maniacal tale with all the suspense and romance that only Eden can deliver!
I for one cannot wait for more from this series!
Cain is a myth, a legend...he is a Phoenix! He can die...only to be risen, stronger, fiercer, and more lethal than before. He is a prisoner...only to be saved by a rogue reporter who isnt quite what she seems! Cain may burn, but Eve...she can take the Heat and anything else thrown at her. What exactly is she???? Together they are intense and scorching!
Cynthia Eden was the first author that I dabbled in to paranormal with her After Midnight series and I can say that this new series is just a hot and has drawn me in! Not only does this have great superpower characters, but a maniacal tale with all the suspense and romance that only Eden can deliver!
I for one cannot wait for more from this series!
February 6, 2014
What a fantastic PNR, love love loved it!
December 5, 2020
This would have been better if it wasn't for he heroine always trying to stop Cain from killing the bad guys. It got beyond annoying after a while.
August 25, 2019
This book, this series.
Honestly, I can't believe I've never even heard of this series. It was a random find during one of my library romance section rabbit holes. I haven't read a decent PNR in quite a while and I've been on the lookout for something a little different. Done and Done.
I read all three of the books in this series one after another so I think I'm just going to condense this review to include all three books. Not only do they actually take place during the same timeline (just following different character's storylines) they are also quite similar in style and tone. I'm not sure if it was a little more obvious because I read all three in three consecutive days, but regardless, it is what it is. They are pretty formulaic, but as I like to say, that's only a problem if you don't like the formula.
All three books center around paranormals who are being held against their will in a government facility by a group called Genesis. Paranormals have come out of the closet and humans are pretty divided on what they think about it. Genesis is a government program that is doing really nasty experiments, mostly through torture, on shifters and vampires in an attempt to create the perfect soldier. While the books also feature vampires and hybrids, they are mainly centered around Pheonix shifters, hence the fire themes in the titles. My first thought when the phoenix shifters were fully explained in the book was holy shit, that's awesome, why has no one else written this before? I absolutely loved everything about them. In many ways, I think the originality of the idea was enough for me to ignore the issues in all three books, the main one being how repetitive they are. Each book has a phoenix shifter MC, two paranormals who are mates trying to find their HEA but aren't sure the other can "handle" their abilities, and nasty villains who are trying to harness the abilities the paranormals have for nefarious reasons. Even the physical relationships in each book follow the same timeline, the sex is mostly physical until near end. Then we have the feels.
One of the things I liked most about these books, this book in particular, was the lack of forced tenderness and overly mushy emotional displays. Now don't get me wrong, I love reading about big bad alpha men turning into puddles of emotion through the power of love, it's...romantic. But sometimes, it seems forced. It just doesn't fit the character and it ruins the book by trying to be something it isn't. That doesn't really happen here. The MCs fall in love, but I thought the romance really stayed true to the characters instead of following some pre-approved checklist for romance novels. Phoenixes shifters have issues. Serious, fucked up, psychological issues. They are dark, tortured, and controlled by rage, whether they're male or female. They endure the trauma of dying over and over and over each time have to figure out a way to get over it. The romance here reflects that. Not to say there isn't any love and tenderness in these books, just that a big bad killing machine doesn't randomly start spouting poetry after kissing his mate for the first time. The sex is passionate and a little rough and the eventual love is intense. The "mate" factor does help the romance along, especially because of the resulting chest thumping and yummy protective possessiveness. Which to me is the best part of a romance between mates.
There are some editing and grammar issues. It didn't really bother me. I enjoyed the plot and world building so much that I barely noticed. There is a large cast of characters, each very different from the others and it was just so much fun to follow each of them. I'm not a big fan of series with books following the same timeline because I know what's going to happen in the next books, at least to a certain degree. Fortunately, I was so interested in the actual characters and the motivation behind their actions in previous books that it didn't even matter. What seemed like a betrayal by a secondary character in the second book was explained in the third book in a way that actually made sense. It worked. I think that's pretty much the point here. There were a lot of issues in this book and the others but I just didn't care. I loved what I was reading enough that the rest of it really didn't matter to me. If you're willing to put away your critical eye for just a bit, I think any lover of PNR would enjoy these books.
Honestly, I can't believe I've never even heard of this series. It was a random find during one of my library romance section rabbit holes. I haven't read a decent PNR in quite a while and I've been on the lookout for something a little different. Done and Done.
I read all three of the books in this series one after another so I think I'm just going to condense this review to include all three books. Not only do they actually take place during the same timeline (just following different character's storylines) they are also quite similar in style and tone. I'm not sure if it was a little more obvious because I read all three in three consecutive days, but regardless, it is what it is. They are pretty formulaic, but as I like to say, that's only a problem if you don't like the formula.
All three books center around paranormals who are being held against their will in a government facility by a group called Genesis. Paranormals have come out of the closet and humans are pretty divided on what they think about it. Genesis is a government program that is doing really nasty experiments, mostly through torture, on shifters and vampires in an attempt to create the perfect soldier. While the books also feature vampires and hybrids, they are mainly centered around Pheonix shifters, hence the fire themes in the titles. My first thought when the phoenix shifters were fully explained in the book was holy shit, that's awesome, why has no one else written this before? I absolutely loved everything about them. In many ways, I think the originality of the idea was enough for me to ignore the issues in all three books, the main one being how repetitive they are. Each book has a phoenix shifter MC, two paranormals who are mates trying to find their HEA but aren't sure the other can "handle" their abilities, and nasty villains who are trying to harness the abilities the paranormals have for nefarious reasons. Even the physical relationships in each book follow the same timeline, the sex is mostly physical until near end. Then we have the feels.
One of the things I liked most about these books, this book in particular, was the lack of forced tenderness and overly mushy emotional displays. Now don't get me wrong, I love reading about big bad alpha men turning into puddles of emotion through the power of love, it's...romantic. But sometimes, it seems forced. It just doesn't fit the character and it ruins the book by trying to be something it isn't. That doesn't really happen here. The MCs fall in love, but I thought the romance really stayed true to the characters instead of following some pre-approved checklist for romance novels. Phoenixes shifters have issues. Serious, fucked up, psychological issues. They are dark, tortured, and controlled by rage, whether they're male or female. They endure the trauma of dying over and over and over each time have to figure out a way to get over it. The romance here reflects that. Not to say there isn't any love and tenderness in these books, just that a big bad killing machine doesn't randomly start spouting poetry after kissing his mate for the first time. The sex is passionate and a little rough and the eventual love is intense. The "mate" factor does help the romance along, especially because of the resulting chest thumping and yummy protective possessiveness. Which to me is the best part of a romance between mates.
There are some editing and grammar issues. It didn't really bother me. I enjoyed the plot and world building so much that I barely noticed. There is a large cast of characters, each very different from the others and it was just so much fun to follow each of them. I'm not a big fan of series with books following the same timeline because I know what's going to happen in the next books, at least to a certain degree. Fortunately, I was so interested in the actual characters and the motivation behind their actions in previous books that it didn't even matter. What seemed like a betrayal by a secondary character in the second book was explained in the third book in a way that actually made sense. It worked. I think that's pretty much the point here. There were a lot of issues in this book and the others but I just didn't care. I loved what I was reading enough that the rest of it really didn't matter to me. If you're willing to put away your critical eye for just a bit, I think any lover of PNR would enjoy these books.
December 21, 2013
Determined to deliver a great story, journalist Eve decides to infiltrate a scientific project studying paranormals called Genesis. The last thing she expected though, was to become a subject herself, despite all the publicity about the subjects being volunteers. Her world will be turned upside down when she meets Subject Thirteen, after months of hard work.
I have a confession, this is the first book of Cynthia Eden I’ve read and I was happily surprised. Paranormals being guinea pigs in a scientific project isn’t exactly a unique setup, but the nature of each characters infused the novel with a breath of fresh – or should I say scorching hot- air.
Subject thirteen, Cain of his real name, is virtually immortal. Oh he can die, alright, but he always comes back in a flurry of extreme heat and flames. Each death takes its toll though and I honestly appreciated to subtlety of his nature/abilities. What he actually is remains a mystery to Eve, but I wouldn’t surprise you if I revealed that he is a phoenix (what with the series being called Phoenix Fire and all…). I think it was a great idea by Eden because it’s honestly the first time I encounter one in a novel. Eve is another matter entirely because neither we nor she knows what she is. All we know is that fire can’t harm her. Isn’t she just perfect for Cain right? I loved how consumable their relationship was!
On a side note, I thought the names Eden chose for her main characters were just perfect. In The Genesis (another subtle wink), Cain is the first murderer, and it fits perfectly since he is a remorseless killer in this novel. In the Bible, Eve is his mother, but if we ignore that fact, Eve is also the first woman. And to Cain, she is the first woman who ever mattered to him. She is also striving to do good every opportunity she gets. So I thought the whole thing was fitting!
Plot-wise, this novel is quite action-filled for a paranormal romance. Don’t get me wrong, there is an abundance is smoldering, sultry scenes, but the action will keep your blood pumping between those encounters. I enjoyed the sense of urgency to fast pace maintained and I wasn’t bored for a second.
I also have to mention the support characters because I really liked them. Eve’s best friend Trace really hit home and I hope we’ll see more of him. There is also Ryder, a mentally unstable vampire, I am very curious about and I think he might be the main character in the next novel, so I’m expecting answers!
The end satisfied me and I’m glad we got some answers about Eve’s nature, her past and her desires for the future. The Eve/Cain couple isn’t perfect, they each have their flaws (especially Cain) but I think it makes them more believable and I appreciate it.
Burn for Me was a great beginning to a new paranormal romance series and I strongly encourage you to give it a chance!
I have a confession, this is the first book of Cynthia Eden I’ve read and I was happily surprised. Paranormals being guinea pigs in a scientific project isn’t exactly a unique setup, but the nature of each characters infused the novel with a breath of fresh – or should I say scorching hot- air.
Subject thirteen, Cain of his real name, is virtually immortal. Oh he can die, alright, but he always comes back in a flurry of extreme heat and flames. Each death takes its toll though and I honestly appreciated to subtlety of his nature/abilities. What he actually is remains a mystery to Eve, but I wouldn’t surprise you if I revealed that he is a phoenix (what with the series being called Phoenix Fire and all…). I think it was a great idea by Eden because it’s honestly the first time I encounter one in a novel. Eve is another matter entirely because neither we nor she knows what she is. All we know is that fire can’t harm her. Isn’t she just perfect for Cain right? I loved how consumable their relationship was!
On a side note, I thought the names Eden chose for her main characters were just perfect. In The Genesis (another subtle wink), Cain is the first murderer, and it fits perfectly since he is a remorseless killer in this novel. In the Bible, Eve is his mother, but if we ignore that fact, Eve is also the first woman. And to Cain, she is the first woman who ever mattered to him. She is also striving to do good every opportunity she gets. So I thought the whole thing was fitting!
Plot-wise, this novel is quite action-filled for a paranormal romance. Don’t get me wrong, there is an abundance is smoldering, sultry scenes, but the action will keep your blood pumping between those encounters. I enjoyed the sense of urgency to fast pace maintained and I wasn’t bored for a second.
I also have to mention the support characters because I really liked them. Eve’s best friend Trace really hit home and I hope we’ll see more of him. There is also Ryder, a mentally unstable vampire, I am very curious about and I think he might be the main character in the next novel, so I’m expecting answers!
The end satisfied me and I’m glad we got some answers about Eve’s nature, her past and her desires for the future. The Eve/Cain couple isn’t perfect, they each have their flaws (especially Cain) but I think it makes them more believable and I appreciate it.
Burn for Me was a great beginning to a new paranormal romance series and I strongly encourage you to give it a chance!
April 26, 2014
Review posted on Got Fiction? Book blog
In this first installment of Cynthia Eden's latest Paranormal Romance series, we see something new in the PNR world. A phoenix shifter.
Eve Bradley is a reporter who knows something big is going down, and is going undercover to find out what. She has no idea what she's in for.
Subject 13 is wrapped in chains, and she is there just to take his vitals. But getting that close to him isn't as easy as she thinks.
Cain O'Connor trapped in a facility run by a doctor who says he is "studying" and "helping" the test subjects. Who are, of course, all there voluntarily. Right.
Wyatt, the scientist/doctor running the place, wants to see what happens when Eve gets close to Subject 13. He especially wants to see what will happen to her if he kills his test subject.
Cain is a Phoenix shifter, but he doesn't turn into a bird, oh no, when he's killed, the beast flies down to hell and is re-spawned in the fires. It is during his rebirth that he is both at his weakest, and his strongest. When he returns, he doesn't always remember who he is, or what he's doing, or where he is. What he remembers is the pain and fires of hell. So his beast is ready to kill, because everyone should feel the pain he feels, right?
But after he meets Eve, for some reason, he remembers her. Or at least, a part of him does. He remembers her scent. But he knows with each death he's a little closer to never coming back. While she may be the best thing to ever happen to him, he just wants her parked somewhere safe so he can come back and raze the facility to the ground.
But Eve doesn't work like that. She isn't just going to hang out while he's out wreaking vengeance. She finds a way to help him, but Wyatt, in the mean time, has been slandering her name. She is now the most wanted criminal in an explosion that left so many dead and injured. An explosion she didn't cause. Meanwhile, she's asked her best friend for help, and since he's a super strong, super smart wolf shifter, she figures if anyone can help, he can. Until he gets taken in for experiments too.
Between wanting to clear her name and stay alive, trying to save her best friend, and trying to stick with Cain, her work is cut out for her.
Cain's afraid his fire will harm Eve, but she's not afraid to get burned. Besides, she has a secret of her own. Maybe she likes the fire.
This is the Cynthia Eden I fell in love with. Her writing is strong, her story is an intense thrill-ride, and this is paranormal romantic suspense at its finest.
***ARC courtesy of Kensington Books
In this first installment of Cynthia Eden's latest Paranormal Romance series, we see something new in the PNR world. A phoenix shifter.
Eve Bradley is a reporter who knows something big is going down, and is going undercover to find out what. She has no idea what she's in for.
Subject 13 is wrapped in chains, and she is there just to take his vitals. But getting that close to him isn't as easy as she thinks.
Cain O'Connor trapped in a facility run by a doctor who says he is "studying" and "helping" the test subjects. Who are, of course, all there voluntarily. Right.
Wyatt, the scientist/doctor running the place, wants to see what happens when Eve gets close to Subject 13. He especially wants to see what will happen to her if he kills his test subject.
Cain is a Phoenix shifter, but he doesn't turn into a bird, oh no, when he's killed, the beast flies down to hell and is re-spawned in the fires. It is during his rebirth that he is both at his weakest, and his strongest. When he returns, he doesn't always remember who he is, or what he's doing, or where he is. What he remembers is the pain and fires of hell. So his beast is ready to kill, because everyone should feel the pain he feels, right?
But after he meets Eve, for some reason, he remembers her. Or at least, a part of him does. He remembers her scent. But he knows with each death he's a little closer to never coming back. While she may be the best thing to ever happen to him, he just wants her parked somewhere safe so he can come back and raze the facility to the ground.
But Eve doesn't work like that. She isn't just going to hang out while he's out wreaking vengeance. She finds a way to help him, but Wyatt, in the mean time, has been slandering her name. She is now the most wanted criminal in an explosion that left so many dead and injured. An explosion she didn't cause. Meanwhile, she's asked her best friend for help, and since he's a super strong, super smart wolf shifter, she figures if anyone can help, he can. Until he gets taken in for experiments too.
Between wanting to clear her name and stay alive, trying to save her best friend, and trying to stick with Cain, her work is cut out for her.
Cain's afraid his fire will harm Eve, but she's not afraid to get burned. Besides, she has a secret of her own. Maybe she likes the fire.
This is the Cynthia Eden I fell in love with. Her writing is strong, her story is an intense thrill-ride, and this is paranormal romantic suspense at its finest.
***ARC courtesy of Kensington Books
did-not-finish
June 30, 2022DNF at 15%. This relationship is starting in a very toxic way and I’m not here for that.
1. I hate the “if you don’t say no, I’ll assume your answer is yes” way of getting consent. She’s a stranger! Assume her answer is no unless she tells you yes!! I feel like this is a common way of presenting consent in American culture and puts the onus on the woman to be brave enough to stop the guy. It’s not healthy and I’d prefer it not portrayed in my fiction.
2. They have casual sex without knowing much about each other.
3. Immediately after, the guy talks about how he felt safe to “take as much pleasure as he wanted” (ew. I want someone more considerate and generous). And he decides “he doesn’t trust her but he wants her”.
All of this is a setup for a gross relationship. She did say no when #1 up there happened. But only to freshen up. The heroine strikes me as a kind and resourceful woman. But it doesn’t take much for her to be okay with this guy who isn’t great.
If I’m going to have an a-hole hero, I prefer a heroine who puts him in his place like Nevada vs Mad Rogan in Ilona Andrews’ Burn for Me. Funny that these are the same title with similarly powerful and terrible heroes. But in the Andrews book, Nevada resists the pull until Rogan starts showing more care and thoughtfulness.
1. I hate the “if you don’t say no, I’ll assume your answer is yes” way of getting consent. She’s a stranger! Assume her answer is no unless she tells you yes!! I feel like this is a common way of presenting consent in American culture and puts the onus on the woman to be brave enough to stop the guy. It’s not healthy and I’d prefer it not portrayed in my fiction.
2. They have casual sex without knowing much about each other.
3. Immediately after, the guy talks about how he felt safe to “take as much pleasure as he wanted” (ew. I want someone more considerate and generous). And he decides “he doesn’t trust her but he wants her”.
All of this is a setup for a gross relationship. She did say no when #1 up there happened. But only to freshen up. The heroine strikes me as a kind and resourceful woman. But it doesn’t take much for her to be okay with this guy who isn’t great.
If I’m going to have an a-hole hero, I prefer a heroine who puts him in his place like Nevada vs Mad Rogan in Ilona Andrews’ Burn for Me. Funny that these are the same title with similarly powerful and terrible heroes. But in the Andrews book, Nevada resists the pull until Rogan starts showing more care and thoughtfulness.
January 17, 2019
I can always count on Cynthia's books to get me out of a reading slump. Right before I picked up this book I started one that had me say "hell to the no" after the 1% of the book. I needed something good to cleanse my mind. Cynthia is always a sure bet.
I downloaded this from the library. It is one of her backlog of books I haven't read. In this paranormal series, paranormals are not in hiding. The world knows about vampires, werewolves and others. This book is the first in the series and is about a reporter who is trying to prove that the government is running involuntary tests, cruel tests (more than she even realized) on paranormals.
This one started out a little slow for me, or maybe I had just lost the mood, but once I picked it back up again around the 30% mark, I really got into the story. It became a little faster paced for me and I was anxious to finish the book.
While I wasn't as enthralled in the romance as I usually am with her paranormal romance books, I still liked it. Also, this was one Cynthia Eden book where we got an epilogue and I was super happy about that! She doesn't always write one.
Recommend if you are looking for a nice paranormal safe read. She can always be counted on for that!
I downloaded this from the library. It is one of her backlog of books I haven't read. In this paranormal series, paranormals are not in hiding. The world knows about vampires, werewolves and others. This book is the first in the series and is about a reporter who is trying to prove that the government is running involuntary tests, cruel tests (more than she even realized) on paranormals.
This one started out a little slow for me, or maybe I had just lost the mood, but once I picked it back up again around the 30% mark, I really got into the story. It became a little faster paced for me and I was anxious to finish the book.
While I wasn't as enthralled in the romance as I usually am with her paranormal romance books, I still liked it. Also, this was one Cynthia Eden book where we got an epilogue and I was super happy about that! She doesn't always write one.
Recommend if you are looking for a nice paranormal safe read. She can always be counted on for that!
January 14, 2015
Meh. I wanted to be swept away...and I wasn't. It had all the right elements (kick ass heroine, tall hot hero, cool best friend) as well as typical ones (bored to death of leads with torturous childhoods by now, bored, bored, bored) but something was missing. Don't know what except too much was over the top. Uber bad bad guys, big giant explosions, life threatening circumstances barely escaped from again and again and again and yes, yet again. Occasionally the heroine was TSTL, and once in a rare while she was too smart for her background (no, two years of medical school does not enable you to tell at a glance how precisely close a bullet hit to the heart of a clothed man). Perhaps my main problem though was the instalove. He's pretty much instantly in love for the first time in a centuries long life and she's ready to risk her life repeatedly for him within minutes of meeting and basically no conversation. Blah.
March 10, 2014
I'm a fan of Cynthia Eden's writing style, and this book was just as good as I was expecting. I liked the instant connection between Cain and Eve and how they didn't keep pushing each other away like in some PNR stories. There were a lot of twists to this story that I wasn't expecting and that kept the story moving at a fast pace. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series.
January 24, 2022
Read the rerelease of this, now titled Hot Enough to Burn. Author stated that very little of it was changed.
Review for the rerelease:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Review for the rerelease:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 7, 2014
The whole Phoenix idea was interesting but I found Eve to be really annoying and predictable. Some of her dialogue made me cringe a bit. Ryder was interesting as king of the vampires so I might give the next book a shot.
June 7, 2016
3 1/2 stars (rounded down to 3 stars, because the story became a little repetitive in the second half)
April 30, 2017
I am absolutely head over heels for Cynthia Eden's LOST series, so I have been wanting to try out some of her paranormals for a while now. I chose this series first because the paranormal characters seem unique - I can't think of any other phoenix stories that I have read.
The long and short of it is that, aside from the romance, this is the story of an evil scientist conducting forced genetic experiments on supernaturals for the government. Richard Wyatt wants to make a super soldier assassin, one that can't be killed. He is well on his way to doing so with his favorite prisoner, Subject 13... until a pesky reporter shows up.
Cain O'Connor is Subject 13, and he is really tired of being killed by Richard Wyatt. His beast is getting closer and closer to taking over, and Cain has plans. Vengeance to mete out. No time for for a woman that smells like candy, and makes him HUNGRY. But Cain is drawn to the woman, and if he doesn't help her, she is going to get herself killed. Cain was a pretty good hero. He was a gruff and dangerous alpha male, with a tiny bit of vulnerability.
Eve Bradley is a reporter who decides to go undercover to find out what Richard Wyatt and Genesis are really doing, because she just doesn't believe that all those supernaturals are volunteering to be guinea pigs. I am not usually a fan of reporter heroines because they are typically more concerned with getting the story than any kind of ethics or morality. But Eve and I started off on a good foot. She was there to investigate the bad guy and help the hero. Yay! I applauded her efforts and bravery... at first. But her bravery turned into idiocy as the story progressed. I mean good grief, how many times can you run back to the bad guy, do the wrong thing, and fall into his evil clutches?
Even though the heroine became somewhat TSTL, I did like the relationship between Cain and Eve. There was lots of chemistry and some steamy intimacy, and Cain just couldn't deny the magnetic pull or her candy smell. It obviously helped him overlook all those annoying traits. Because of the (unnecessary) danger that they were often in, there wasn't much time to build an emotional relationship or connection. So we had bouts of danger and peril, followed by some steamy naked fun. Rinse and repeat. All in all, it was an entertaining action-packed story, but not one with any depth.
There were a few prominent secondary characters in this first installment that I believe were set up as future heroes and heroines for the series. I am interested to see how Ryder and his phoenix get along, and what will happen with our out-of-control werewolf, Trace.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Tantor Audio. I recommend this story to fans of paranormal romance, particularly if you liked Eve Langlais' Dragon Pointseries.
June 26, 2017
AudioBook Review
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 3 Story 5
So, having had some fun reads from Eden in the past, I was curious to see just what her shifter stories could bring, and I don’t think I could have started with a better one! Eve is a journalist working to discover if the paranormals in the research lab are really there of their own free will. She’s got a hunch that not all is as advertised, but she needs to really dig to discover the truth behind the horrific experiments. Subject 13 is particularly interesting to her: his trials are torturous, and she won’t just walk away.
Cain was tricked by a shifter and woke up to find himself poked, prodded, pinched and chained – part of an experiment disguising torture that he never would have been part of. Angry, frustrated and upset with himself for being duped, he’s intrigued by Eve, but knows that he can bring her nothing good – and perhaps their attraction will lead to her being injured. But, with Eve, there is no reining her in. She’s determined to right the wrongs, expose the bad guys, and never will walk away no matter the danger to herself. And she’s intrigued and attracted to Cain, she’ll do what she can to get him out safely – and find a way to help free the others.
Non-stop action from start to end with a wonderful twist that was wholly unexpected: the mad scientist is truly that, with plenty of justifications to explain his actions and torture. Cain is all badass alpha with a huge hero complex – everything that goes wrong is his fault, and he’ll never allow anyone close enough to be effected by yet another failure of his. Eve is just amazingly bold and brash: she’s unconcerned with her own safety while others are in jeopardy, her hunches are most often omniscient, and she’s just a lovely balance of strength and determination to face off with Cain.
Narration for this story is provided by Jillian Macie, and her voice has a youthful quality that perfectly suited Eve, even though the other characters were not as distinctly different. A bit careful with her pacing, that became an issue in the more action-packed faster moments, but there was never the feeling that words or moments were missed because of rushing. A little too over-worked on the hushed and strident moments, the narration seemed to smooth out as the story progressed, and while not adding a great deal of intrigue, it also didn’t distract greatly.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 3 Story 5
So, having had some fun reads from Eden in the past, I was curious to see just what her shifter stories could bring, and I don’t think I could have started with a better one! Eve is a journalist working to discover if the paranormals in the research lab are really there of their own free will. She’s got a hunch that not all is as advertised, but she needs to really dig to discover the truth behind the horrific experiments. Subject 13 is particularly interesting to her: his trials are torturous, and she won’t just walk away.
Cain was tricked by a shifter and woke up to find himself poked, prodded, pinched and chained – part of an experiment disguising torture that he never would have been part of. Angry, frustrated and upset with himself for being duped, he’s intrigued by Eve, but knows that he can bring her nothing good – and perhaps their attraction will lead to her being injured. But, with Eve, there is no reining her in. She’s determined to right the wrongs, expose the bad guys, and never will walk away no matter the danger to herself. And she’s intrigued and attracted to Cain, she’ll do what she can to get him out safely – and find a way to help free the others.
Non-stop action from start to end with a wonderful twist that was wholly unexpected: the mad scientist is truly that, with plenty of justifications to explain his actions and torture. Cain is all badass alpha with a huge hero complex – everything that goes wrong is his fault, and he’ll never allow anyone close enough to be effected by yet another failure of his. Eve is just amazingly bold and brash: she’s unconcerned with her own safety while others are in jeopardy, her hunches are most often omniscient, and she’s just a lovely balance of strength and determination to face off with Cain.
Narration for this story is provided by Jillian Macie, and her voice has a youthful quality that perfectly suited Eve, even though the other characters were not as distinctly different. A bit careful with her pacing, that became an issue in the more action-packed faster moments, but there was never the feeling that words or moments were missed because of rushing. A little too over-worked on the hushed and strident moments, the narration seemed to smooth out as the story progressed, and while not adding a great deal of intrigue, it also didn’t distract greatly.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
May 6, 2014
Reviewed here first: http://smexybooks.com/2014/01/review-...
Burn for Me is a fantastic start to this new series. I’ve always enjoyed Ms. Eden’s paranormal books, so when this one was offered, with it’s clever blurb that doesn’t really tell us anything about Cain other than he’s got quite a unique sense of smell, I was intrigued.
As the blurb states, Eve is a journalist. With her medical background Eve is able to infiltrate the Genesis Group under the guise of a research assistant of sorts. Everything seemed above board until she’s taken to meet Subject Thirteen, who is in a cell, chained, unable to move much at all. It is immediately clear to her that this supernatural being is not there voluntarily. Eve and Cain’s initial meeting is done so well, their chemistry leaps off the page. Though frightened out of her wits, Eve enters Cain’s cell so she can whisper…
“Eve put up the stethoscope and reached for a needle. She eased closer to Thirteen once more and rose onto her toes. The guy was big, at least six three, maybe six four, so she couldn’t quite reach his ear as she whispered, “Are you here willingly?”
Eve began to draw his blood. Thirteen didn’t even flinch as the needle slid into his arm.
But he did give a small, negative shake of his head.
Shit. She eased back down and tried to figure out just how she could help him.
“I’m Eve.” She licked her lips. His gaze followed the movement. The darkness in his stare seemed to heat. Everything about the guy was hot. “I-I can help you.”
He laughed then, and the sound chilled her. “No,” he said in that deep rumble of a voice, “you can’t.”
I loved Eve. Strong, smart and determined, freeing Cain becomes her single focus. Of course, it’s not easy, and both she and Cain will find that they need to rely on the kindness of others along the way. We meet Ryder, a vampire who was also being kept at the Genesis labs. His character is intriguing because it’s inferred that he might have a connection of a sort to Eve’s past. Then there’s Trace, a werewolf who happens to be a very good friend of Eve’s. Both Ryder and Ty play important roles in Cain’s escape as well as helping to keep him free and each will pay a price for doing so.
I found Eve’s character to be a conundrum of sorts. Without giving too much away, it is clear that Eve is not purely human, but it is never spelled out exactly what she is. Normally, I would find this so frustrating it would affect the enjoyment of the story for me, but in this instance, the author weaves a tale with just enough varying information that the reader can form some sort of conclusion. Whether right or wrong we won’t know until certain events that began in this book are seen to fruition in the next.
Cain and Eve together are combustible, pun intended. From the moment Eve comes into Cain’s view and he gets a supernatural whiff of her, thinking she smells like cotton candy, I knew this couple would be hot together. Cain is a phoenix shifter and though he doesn’t have an alternate form, exactly, what he does is simply amazing and I’ve not seen anything like it before. At the same time, though, each time he does it he tends to fall more and more into the dark side of his total self. Interestingly, Eve appears to be the one thing that may be able to save him from total destruction.
I found this story a really unique take on a shifter; one that was completely new to me and therefore I really enjoyed everything about it. Action packed, with exciting pacing, it’s a story that flows well and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Just as you think something is resolved, something else happens to change that or push you to assume another conclusion. As a first book in a series, I did not feel bogged down with multiple story lines or an information dump. I also enjoyed that fact that in this world, humans are aware that there are supernaturals among them. This is a theme that I really like, especially in the world that Ms. Eden has created. I definitely look forward to the next book, One Bitten, Twice Burned in April 28!
Burn for Me is a fantastic start to this new series. I’ve always enjoyed Ms. Eden’s paranormal books, so when this one was offered, with it’s clever blurb that doesn’t really tell us anything about Cain other than he’s got quite a unique sense of smell, I was intrigued.
As the blurb states, Eve is a journalist. With her medical background Eve is able to infiltrate the Genesis Group under the guise of a research assistant of sorts. Everything seemed above board until she’s taken to meet Subject Thirteen, who is in a cell, chained, unable to move much at all. It is immediately clear to her that this supernatural being is not there voluntarily. Eve and Cain’s initial meeting is done so well, their chemistry leaps off the page. Though frightened out of her wits, Eve enters Cain’s cell so she can whisper…
“Eve put up the stethoscope and reached for a needle. She eased closer to Thirteen once more and rose onto her toes. The guy was big, at least six three, maybe six four, so she couldn’t quite reach his ear as she whispered, “Are you here willingly?”
Eve began to draw his blood. Thirteen didn’t even flinch as the needle slid into his arm.
But he did give a small, negative shake of his head.
Shit. She eased back down and tried to figure out just how she could help him.
“I’m Eve.” She licked her lips. His gaze followed the movement. The darkness in his stare seemed to heat. Everything about the guy was hot. “I-I can help you.”
He laughed then, and the sound chilled her. “No,” he said in that deep rumble of a voice, “you can’t.”
I loved Eve. Strong, smart and determined, freeing Cain becomes her single focus. Of course, it’s not easy, and both she and Cain will find that they need to rely on the kindness of others along the way. We meet Ryder, a vampire who was also being kept at the Genesis labs. His character is intriguing because it’s inferred that he might have a connection of a sort to Eve’s past. Then there’s Trace, a werewolf who happens to be a very good friend of Eve’s. Both Ryder and Ty play important roles in Cain’s escape as well as helping to keep him free and each will pay a price for doing so.
I found Eve’s character to be a conundrum of sorts. Without giving too much away, it is clear that Eve is not purely human, but it is never spelled out exactly what she is. Normally, I would find this so frustrating it would affect the enjoyment of the story for me, but in this instance, the author weaves a tale with just enough varying information that the reader can form some sort of conclusion. Whether right or wrong we won’t know until certain events that began in this book are seen to fruition in the next.
Cain and Eve together are combustible, pun intended. From the moment Eve comes into Cain’s view and he gets a supernatural whiff of her, thinking she smells like cotton candy, I knew this couple would be hot together. Cain is a phoenix shifter and though he doesn’t have an alternate form, exactly, what he does is simply amazing and I’ve not seen anything like it before. At the same time, though, each time he does it he tends to fall more and more into the dark side of his total self. Interestingly, Eve appears to be the one thing that may be able to save him from total destruction.
I found this story a really unique take on a shifter; one that was completely new to me and therefore I really enjoyed everything about it. Action packed, with exciting pacing, it’s a story that flows well and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Just as you think something is resolved, something else happens to change that or push you to assume another conclusion. As a first book in a series, I did not feel bogged down with multiple story lines or an information dump. I also enjoyed that fact that in this world, humans are aware that there are supernaturals among them. This is a theme that I really like, especially in the world that Ms. Eden has created. I definitely look forward to the next book, One Bitten, Twice Burned in April 28!
April 26, 2023
This started strong, but lost points every time Eve did or said something stupid. I didn't really feel the love connection either, mediocre lust only. But that may be because I just didn't care for Eve. The story was pretty good overall... not original, but fairly entertaining. The narration was tolerable only after I sped it up twice. My goodness that lady talks slow. Meh.
August 29, 2014
3.5 "Burning up the sheets" stars
Things I liked...
This was an original story-one I haven't read before- that contained paranormal characters, once again, that I have not read about. For that reason alone, I enjoyed reading this book.
Cain...total alpha male going on. I loved how raw his character was. He really only had three emotions in the beginning of this book, pissed off, really pissed off, and horny. And it was awesome... because they humped...a lot.
The sex scenes were HAWT. Wish we could have gotten a little bit more detail in the descriptions-because I'm all for the smut- but they were literally on fire!! Cain was an animal & Eve likes it rough...so they were burning up the sheets!!
I also loved the heroine in this book, Eve was a feisty little thing and didn't let Cain boss her around too much, but she wasn't the type of heroine to continuously try to piss the alpha male off. She knew when to surrender and when to sass back. I liked that about her a lot.
Things that didn't work for me....
This lost some stars for me because the monotony of the twist in the story. Eve & Cain get into some trouble....then they get out of that predicament, and run away....then they get caught again....then run away.....then another issue happens with the same villain....then of course they get away and are on the run, again. After a couple of times of this happening throughout the book, I kind of lost some interest in the story and just wanted to see how things ended.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading this, I just started to see a trend in what was happening, and at that point it became predictable for me. Still unsure if I will be up for reading the rest of this series.
Things I liked...
This was an original story-one I haven't read before- that contained paranormal characters, once again, that I have not read about. For that reason alone, I enjoyed reading this book.
Cain...total alpha male going on. I loved how raw his character was. He really only had three emotions in the beginning of this book, pissed off, really pissed off, and horny. And it was awesome... because they humped...a lot.
The sex scenes were HAWT. Wish we could have gotten a little bit more detail in the descriptions-because I'm all for the smut- but they were literally on fire!! Cain was an animal & Eve likes it rough...so they were burning up the sheets!!
I also loved the heroine in this book, Eve was a feisty little thing and didn't let Cain boss her around too much, but she wasn't the type of heroine to continuously try to piss the alpha male off. She knew when to surrender and when to sass back. I liked that about her a lot.
Things that didn't work for me....
This lost some stars for me because the monotony of the twist in the story. Eve & Cain get into some trouble....then they get out of that predicament, and run away....then they get caught again....then run away.....then another issue happens with the same villain....then of course they get away and are on the run, again. After a couple of times of this happening throughout the book, I kind of lost some interest in the story and just wanted to see how things ended.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy reading this, I just started to see a trend in what was happening, and at that point it became predictable for me. Still unsure if I will be up for reading the rest of this series.
December 24, 2013
Burn For Me by Cynthia Eden
I will start by saying I love this book.
Eve Bradley was undercover looking for a story, not a cause. But something about the man they called Subject Thirteen got her involved. The scientists said he was a devil, and they had a decent case: Terrifying power. A bad attitude. And looks that could lead anyone to sin. . .
Cain O'Connor knows the minute he catches her candy scent that Eve could drive him wild. But she's a threat--in a way no one has been for him in years. She's safer away from him, too. But with a powerful conspiracy determined to shut Eve up for good, there's no time to argue. All they can do is trust their instincts--and their hearts.
This book has a lot of action in it. With twist and tunes I never saw coming. I had a hard time putting this book down. I loved all the characters I even liked the villains.
Eve is what I like in a female character. She is tough and kind hearted when she needs to be. I hate when authors write female’s where at the beginning she has a brain and back bone in till she meets the main male character. Then she takes her brain out and shove’s in her private parts.
Cain is what you would expect in the male lead character. He is strong but not kind hearted to anyone. I also found that he made me sad. I don’t want to give anything away but Cain is a tortured soul. Has a temper that literally could start you on fire. I will say it was easy to figure out what kind of paranormal being he is.
The villains were nasty and tricky. They kept are main character’s on their toes throughout the whole book. They are sick in the head I don’t even think a shrink could help these nasty villains.
Now for what I don’t like in this book.
The only thing I did not like was sometimes Eve and Cain’s relationship was very frustrating.
Spoiler do not read any further if you don’t want to be spoiled
The only thing I did not like about the book was Eve did not get all of her shifter powers except she is fire proof. That was a big disappointment.
I will start by saying I love this book.
Eve Bradley was undercover looking for a story, not a cause. But something about the man they called Subject Thirteen got her involved. The scientists said he was a devil, and they had a decent case: Terrifying power. A bad attitude. And looks that could lead anyone to sin. . .
Cain O'Connor knows the minute he catches her candy scent that Eve could drive him wild. But she's a threat--in a way no one has been for him in years. She's safer away from him, too. But with a powerful conspiracy determined to shut Eve up for good, there's no time to argue. All they can do is trust their instincts--and their hearts.
This book has a lot of action in it. With twist and tunes I never saw coming. I had a hard time putting this book down. I loved all the characters I even liked the villains.
Eve is what I like in a female character. She is tough and kind hearted when she needs to be. I hate when authors write female’s where at the beginning she has a brain and back bone in till she meets the main male character. Then she takes her brain out and shove’s in her private parts.
Cain is what you would expect in the male lead character. He is strong but not kind hearted to anyone. I also found that he made me sad. I don’t want to give anything away but Cain is a tortured soul. Has a temper that literally could start you on fire. I will say it was easy to figure out what kind of paranormal being he is.
The villains were nasty and tricky. They kept are main character’s on their toes throughout the whole book. They are sick in the head I don’t even think a shrink could help these nasty villains.
Now for what I don’t like in this book.
The only thing I did not like was sometimes Eve and Cain’s relationship was very frustrating.
Spoiler do not read any further if you don’t want to be spoiled
The only thing I did not like about the book was Eve did not get all of her shifter powers except she is fire proof. That was a big disappointment.
September 27, 2020
3.5 stars = I liked it(with nits.) Reporter Eve goes undercover at a facility which is doing testing on paranormals and when she witnesses her first experiment, it becomes clear that Subject 13 is not a volunteer - she watches as he's shot and killed and then begins to burn before resurrecting. Eve is determined to free him and all the others kept against their will. Cain is suspicious of the female, who may be his salvation but with the way he is drawn to her, he suspects she may also be the one who can be the permanent death of him.
Burn for Me has some good things going on, I like the 'what' of what Cain and Eve are - that is nicely original -and they are combustible together which is appropriate for such a fiery leading man. What worked a bit less well was the structure of the story that tended to fall into the pattern: action, get captured by the bad guy, evil villain speech, dramatic escape, Cain dies and resurrects, then some 'fill in appropriate adjective' (angry, desperate, etc) smexy time then rinse and repeat.
To carry the series forward there is a borderline nutso vampire who is the lead in the next book with another of Caine's fiery race and there is a thread hanging for Eve's shifter brother-of-choice, Trace.
So, I guess the bottom line on this one for me is that the underlying story felt kind of thin to me but I liked the idea of having Phoenixes for the paranormal element - despite the downside of having the hero constantly dying- and I would have happily traded one or more smexy times for a little chance for the leads to connect a little outside of the bedroom, but diehard Eden fans probably won't feel the same.
Burn for Me has some good things going on, I like the 'what' of what Cain and Eve are - that is nicely original -and they are combustible together which is appropriate for such a fiery leading man. What worked a bit less well was the structure of the story that tended to fall into the pattern: action, get captured by the bad guy, evil villain speech, dramatic escape, Cain dies and resurrects, then some 'fill in appropriate adjective' (angry, desperate, etc) smexy time then rinse and repeat.
To carry the series forward there is a borderline nutso vampire who is the lead in the next book with another of Caine's fiery race and there is a thread hanging for Eve's shifter brother-of-choice, Trace.
So, I guess the bottom line on this one for me is that the underlying story felt kind of thin to me but I liked the idea of having Phoenixes for the paranormal element - despite the downside of having the hero constantly dying- and I would have happily traded one or more smexy times for a little chance for the leads to connect a little outside of the bedroom, but diehard Eden fans probably won't feel the same.
December 31, 2013
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
REVIEW:
Being undercover didn’t turn out the way that Eve had planned. I don’t think that she ever expected to see the type of pain and torture that were being inflicted on the subjects in Genesis's control. And I am 100% she never thought she would end up as one of those subjects.
This was a great start to a new series by Cynthia. I really enjoyed this book. Cain & Eve are great to read about. Although I would have like to see more about what Eve is. I felt a little let down on that part. I was hoping she would use her powers in some awesome way. Maybe we will get to see more of that in future books. And speaking of future books I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Ryder’s books should be an awesome journey. Really like this vampire :)
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from BRAVA in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
REVIEW:
Being undercover didn’t turn out the way that Eve had planned. I don’t think that she ever expected to see the type of pain and torture that were being inflicted on the subjects in Genesis's control. And I am 100% she never thought she would end up as one of those subjects.
This was a great start to a new series by Cynthia. I really enjoyed this book. Cain & Eve are great to read about. Although I would have like to see more about what Eve is. I felt a little let down on that part. I was hoping she would use her powers in some awesome way. Maybe we will get to see more of that in future books. And speaking of future books I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Ryder’s books should be an awesome journey. Really like this vampire :)
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from BRAVA in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
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