Moonbeam

The Moon Trilogy #2

by Tim O'Rourke

Winter McCall and Thaddeus Blake flee the burning mansion. Both are hunted by two relentless police officers and vampires. With time running out, Thaddeus leads Winnie towards Scotland, where he believes the Moonbeam, a precious stone with the ability to destroy those that hunt him, is hidden.

But Thaddeus has held the Moonbeam before and with it came betrayal, madness and murder. Will the Moonbeam protect Thaddeus, last of the werewolves, or is he truly the only surviving member of his race?

With her journey fraught with danger and haunted by Ruby Little, Winnie struggles with her growing feelings towards Thaddeus and what her life and she has become.

A new adult novel recommended for 17 plus years.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Vampires

ebook

First published June 1, 2013

About the author

Tim is the author of over sixty books including the No 1 bestselling 'Kiera Hudson Series', 'Samantha Carter - Vampire Seeker Series', 'The Sydney Hart Mysteries', 'The Moon Trilogy, and 'The Mechanic' among other titles.

Tim is currently working on new Kiera Hudson books and other works.

Don't be shy; feel free to contact Tim at any of the following:

Email: Kierahudson91@aol.com

Website: www.timorourkeauthor.com

Tim O'Rourke Fan club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/offic...

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't you just hate it when you turn the page and it turns out you have already read the last one? Well, I do and it just happened to me! I waited quite awhile for this book, and it was totally worth It! There is something that has intrigued me about Thaddeus since the first book, Moonlight. I still haven't figured out what .... maybe its the fact that he writes poetry and he seems dark, but there is something light underneath this mysterious man. I loved reading Thad's back story in this book, although it saddened me deeply. As usual, Tim O'Rourke has done a fantastic job. He had my heart racing,jaw dropping, stomach cringing,and my mind boggled. I can't wait to see what twists and turns he has in store for us with the next book!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

When will they ever let us give more than 5 stars??? Holy crap! MOONBEAM really sealed the deal on how much I love this series. Now, it's no Kiera Hudson or Black Hill Farm novel but it is super close. Twists, turns, laughs, cringes. Tim gives it all! I loved reading about Thad's past and was so creeped out by Ruby Little. *shutter* Another amazing book from an amazing author. I cannot wait for book three!! Too bad Tim can't clone himself so we can get books faster ;) Just kidding Tim...or am I...

[Jenn Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Tim O'Rourke has blown me away. What can I say about this author that I haven't said a hundred times before? It really is no surprise that publishers are starting to take notice, the man is a genius. Probably a little crazy, definitely a bit evil, but a master at what he does.

Moonbeam is B2 in the Moon trilogy & we pick up right where B1 leaves off. I really can't say too much because, in typical O'Rourke fashion, there are soooo many twists & surprises it will leave your head spinning. It's an experience you really just have to go into blind to live the full effect. All I can really say is, Winnie & Thad are on the run. We get a peek into Thad's past & Winnie's future is irrevocably altered. I know that is all very vague but, anything else I say would just spoil the story & that is something I simply cannot do.

Nothing is off limits with this author, just because a character dies in the past does not mean their story is over. That is what makes these stories so freakin intense, no two books are alike & you really never know what direction it's gonna take or what will happen next. Trust no one, never EVER think you have it all figured out-you WILL be wrong. It's impossible to stop reading, there is no slowing down. Bloody, gritty, creepy-it's the stuff of nightmares. And something else I've come to expect is his last minute twists. This book was no different. The last freaking sentence left me dumb, mouth on the floor, screaming WTF, when does the next book come out?!??!

I've been following O'Rourke for over a year now, read countless books by him & he STILL manages to shock & surprise me. For someone who reads as much as I do, that's an almost impossible task, but he still does it. Every. Single. Time. I cannot sing my praises loudly or often enough, I'm definitely a fan for life!!

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a brilliant 2nd book where we find out more about the lovely Thaddeus, as Thaddeus and Winnie are on the run and go in search of the Moonbeam.

There is not alot more to say about this book without giving away the storyline and spoiling it and believe me you wouldn't want that as you never know as with all of Tim's books just where the story is heading until the very end but even then we're still kept on the edge of our seats waiting for the next installment.

If you have never read anything other than this series by Tim O'rourke then why not what have you been doing with your time?? You should read all of Tim's books as they're all as good as this series and he will end up to be one of your favourite authors and it was only a matter of time before the big publishers started taking notice, can't wait for the next one.

[Nereid · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts off where we left Thad and Winnie, watching the mansion burn while trying to get rid of all the supernatural bodies. The thing that amazes me the most about her is how resilient she is. Learning about what Thaddeus is and being ensnared into a life of deception and lies could not have been easy yet she still stands by him. As they are forced to flee the area, Winnie is faced with some tough choices and those decisions could cost her dearly and the irony of the situation is not lost on me considering how much she resembles Frances to begin with. Thaddeus seems quite stoic at times whether that is a by product of being around so much death in his life or just a defence mechanism but he obviously cares about Winnie and will do anything to protect her. There is definitely no sparkly vampires in this series and their evil intent is set on vengeance and whoever stands in their way will be eliminated one way or another. True to form Tim's books send us spiralling in all directions with so many twists and turns that is hard to catch your breath. There is one thing for certain, you will never be bored reading his books and the story will constantly surprise you and keep you guessing till the very end.

[Micky Blue Skies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moonbeam is a must read for Tim O'Rourke fans or simply anyone who likes a great paranormal love story. The second in The Moon Trilogy I found myself totally caught up in the lives of Thaddeus and Winnie. Tim has created such an awesome book that I became so engrossed I felt like I was on the run with them. So, saying you can totally lose yourself in this book is an understatement.

It is a quick read and you can probably finish in under 4 hours if you plant yourself and just read this since its only slightly over 160 pages. Don't let the length fool you though. Even though this was a short book, it was one of the best quickies I've ever had. Highly satisfying, but left me wanting more (the third book) :-)

The only disappointment I had was knowing that with Book 3 there will be no more Thaddeus and Winnie, and frankly I am just not ready for that!

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tim is one one of those authors that puts his all in everything he does. He also appreciates his fans and has even dedicated books to them. His writing style is unique and his stories creative. This is the second book in this trilogy and I loved it!! It starts off where the last book finished. It goes more in depth with Thaddeus past. You get to know him better. It's a middle book that makes me wish I had the last one!! Great read..

[Conny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can only say that my review for book one is the same for book 2.
I love this story.

I go to sleep with this story in my head.
I wake up with this story in my head.

Now I've read book 1 & 2, what to do know?
Wait for book 3.

I hope Tim writes fast, because I need more please.
I feel like this story is becoming a part of me, very strange...

I don't know what to read next,
I think I'm addicted to Tim's books.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great sequel to book one. OMG I just adore the blossoming relationship between Thaddeus and Winnie!!!! This Stoke character gives me the chills...can't wait to see more from him! Looking forward to reading Book Three!


Edited 7/3/13
=========================================================================More Thaddeus Blake & Winnie...OMG YES!

[Gemma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing as always and left me hanging for me carnt wait for the next one

[Ayush · Rating 4 out of 5]

It pointed to too much action than actually present. An important, but slow, part of the story.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very good had twist at the end.

[Erin Duffey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a great idea, but delivery fell through.

I kinda thought the storyline would continue what it started in book #1. However, this was almost entirely one characters backstory! The beginning was faster paced than the 1st book, which was great, but then the present story froze in one place while telling the back story!
I liked the book a lot, I just couldn't bring myself to love it! Plus, there were so many more spelling & grammatical errors in this book! Just saying.

[Caroline Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Wow! And wow! Tim O’Rourke never ceases to amaze as reading his books provides the reader with shock after shock! Recommended for readers of 17 yrs and over, Moonbeam (Book 2 of The Moon Trilogy) is a very dark paranormal horror that also ticks all of the boxes when it comes to drama, love, action and adventure as well as it’s fair share of gore.

After being acquainted with the characters of Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy, Book One), Thaddeus Blake and Winter McCall – where the setting was, if anything, a little eerie and strange – the reader was provided with a great deal of action as the story unfolded and especially towards the end which is right where Moonbeam takes over. Thaddeus’ mansion is left burning as Thad and Winnie make their way to Scotland in the hope of finding the Moonbeam, as well as trying to escape from the police and the vampires that will be sure to hunt them down.

The Moonbeam is a precious stone believed to destroy all of the vampires and it may be Thad’s only hope in preventing the vampires fom tracking him. Unfortunately, even this precious stone does not come without its history, as Thaddeus is well aware. Thaddeus had the Moonbeam in his possession many years before and it had caused nothing but deep, dark troubles – all of which the reader hears about as the story drifts in and out of the present to Thaddeus’ dark past. It seems that with small doses of happiness, Thad’s life has been overrun with tragedy. As we learn more of Thaddeus’ history the reader cannot help but feel for him deeply, which is a different take of him than we are used to with Moonlight.

Events and settings are not so eerie and strange in Moonbeam as Thaddeus and Winnie have a deeper understanding of each other. Winnie has to come to terms with the events that have taken place and the reader hopes that she can put her trust in Thaddeus to look out for her and protect her. As we begin book 2 the adventure is well under way, not only with Thad and Winnie travelling to Scotland, but with the police following up on Thaddeus’ burning mansion and trying to locate him. Therefore, there is a faster pace throughout Moonbeam. However, the horror is as equal to or even moreso in Moonbeam especially the scenes of Ruby Little (the ghost of Winnie’s best friend) that are very disturbing. You’ll definitely be wanting to pull those bed covers over you when you read this!

As I explained in my review of Moonlight (Book 1 of The Moon Trilogy), at the time I wanted to jump into the story to pull Winnie out – to free her from all danger and from the strange Thaddeus. However, with Moonbeam I wanted to be Winnie, in the knowledge that Thaddeus would protect me from danger and that my feelings towards him were growing stronger. In a short space of time she has come so far with Thad; after him finding her begging on the streets of London, offering her accommodation in return for her to carry out household duties (and occasionally stand in the moonlight!) and then being attacked and watch their home burn to presently making their way to Scotland.

With every one of Tim O’Rourke’s sequels I have read so far they can all be read as stand alone’s as Tim is kind enough and clear enough to provide just enough information for the reader to understand the characters and the events taking place. HOWEVER, the reader will seriously be missing out on sooo much more! I strongly recommend that the earlier books are read to completely follow these characters on their great journey, to see them blossom. And I can promise you that you’ll fall in love with them.

I loved every page of Moonbeam until I reached those dreaded words, ‘To be continued…’, at which point I just wanted to scream, ‘No! How can he do this?!’ Talk about leaving the reader in suspense! ‘That’s a little dramatic!’ I hear you say in regards to my reaction – well, you most probably haven’t read a Tim O’Rourke book. They are frightfully addictive, powerful, exciting, horrific and fun. Believe me, you’ll constantly find yourself rooting for your favourite characters as Tim passes his passion onto the reader!!!

Moonbeam was provided by the author, Tim O’Rourke, for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

[A Book Vacation · Rating 5 out of 5]

To see my full review:

http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...

Tim O’Rourke’s second novel in The Moon Trilogy blew me away. The mysterious Thaddeus Blake is laid bare as we learn his background, dating back hundreds of years and explaining his previous loves and cruel life. It is impossible not to feel sorry for Thaddeus as we hear his tale, and it’s a rather gruesome one, at that. It explains so much about his character and made me fall in love all over again, right there alongside Winnie. Although Winnie attempts to fight her attraction, there are many underlying aspects at work within the novel, and I am excited to see where O’Rourke takes it in the next installment, slated to be the last of the series (but fingers crossed—The Kiera Hudson Series was supposed to be a trilogy as well, and it’s now two series and over ten books long and still going, so…).

In this novel, readers learn more about the vampires as well, and I must say they are shaping up to be an evil bunch. Many of Tim’s descriptions of them made me cringe, especially when it came to feedings other interactions with humans and the like. They are extremely dark and harrowing, and I have a strong feeling of foreboding as they close in on Thaddeus and Winnie.

O’Rourke also threw a bit of a wrench into the mix, and it seems that not all the characters in this novel are who they say they are… and there is a strong allusion that the next novel will be jammed packed with twists and turns as O’Rourke drops the secrets he’s been holding onto the reader. I’m so excited!

[Frankie Ness · Rating 3 out of 5]

Braine's Talk Supe review

As this series is a trilogy, the backstory though essential, took up much of MOONBEAM's plot. The history of the Moonstone, which is entwined to Thaddeus' backstory, was a tad too long. There are several chapters dedicated to this and I felt like it stunted Winnie and Thaddeus' storyline. Winnie's character for instance went through some major changes and the character contrast due her transition wasn't as stark and compelling as I wanted it to be. On top of this, new "villains" are introduced and because they had limited face time, the threat they post to Winnie and Thaddeus was dulled.

But aside from my very subjective opinion about the plot, I do love the myth and Tim's world building. These are two of Tim's stronger points and like his other works, Moon Trilogy, enjoyed the same inspiration Kiera Hudson did. The details were succinct but rich and his world building is very believable and eloquent. The violence, graphic descriptions and bloodbath was consistent with his Tim's other series like Black Hill Farm and Vampire Seeker.

Despite my moderate thoughts about MOONBEAM, I'm now even more interested to see how Tim's going to end this trilogy. I feel like there's so much more to the story that's yet to be told and I'm hoping that the third book won't be too cramped with events to "make up" for the lack of progress in Winnie and Thaddeus' story.

[Donna Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting strange!

I like strange and weird! I'm shocked every which way I go, I was discussed at the way his kin came in his father's house and they way they took over and treated Thad! So sad about th he girl he liked ravekka!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm glad for the advancing of the story but this felt a lot like a placeholder - though necessary. I enjoy Thad and Winnie together and I think there's a lot of interesting places for the story to go, so it's frustrating knowing there's only one book left and so much of this one seems unnecessary. Also, there were a few places that were pretty redundant, almost verbatim, which seemed a little confusing. Maybe it's just me. Knowing something about the werewolves does open up a possibility, but it's one I think would need more than a trilogy to tell, and the story isn't about that idea - it's about the stone.
Who ever knows where Tim may be going with this one - I gave up trying to guess or figure out a long time ago lol - but I know it's always worth the excruciating wait ;)

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend reading this one when you can sit down for a chunk of time because you won't want to put it down. Before I knew it I was half done. I think it was a good, quick read, but I'm not sure I like the direction Winnie is taking. I did like Thad's background story. I look forward to the third book in this trilogy.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my friggin god, i'm sure Tim's books get better with each book he writes. Moonbeam how ever had me drawn in to the point where my heart paced and my stomach turned.. which is unusual for me. As usual lots of twist n turns which makes you want to keep reading, to find out what happens. Am already wanting the next book !!!! Well done Tim :)

[MadameZelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I'm not acquainted with the various Kiera Hudson series, I am surprised with the constant turns of this series which were for the most part unexpected. Nothing is as it seems. The author writes very well and the reading is easy. I have absolutely no idea where Mr. O'Rourke will take me. What a hauntingly lovely tale. I definitely must read more of his novels.

[Lisa Meece · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading the first book, I was a little displeased on how it ended. I expected for it to start like days later or with a huge flashback but man, it was right on cue. I am not really a vampire and werewolf person ( Thanks Twilight!!!) but I got to hand it to Tim, this book makes me want more. Now for a drink and on to the next one.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Aww I was really hoping I would like this one more. It did not go the way I was expecting and I am quite disappointed in the story. Could have been way better that is for sure. I will read the next one eventually, not a top priority anymore.

(Found reviews on my computer for books I read last year that I never posted so that is why I have written as if it was back then)

[Kevin Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood and Guts.

OK, that's book two of this series finished and it just got better with each tap on its electronic page. Can't stay to inform you of what's going on, (I need to find out myself) in this short, (but very exciting) three book story. If I could give each book ten stars, then I definitely would. A must read.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow what a hell of a ride this book took me one. I though my heart nearly stopped at one point reading this. I was so gutted it ended as i was really enjoying this one. Cant wait for the final part of this story. Hurry up tim :)

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love his books! I don't even know where to start. Just when I thought I have it all figured out, Tim has to come and ruin all my theories.

Is Thad a mad man? What the hell is Ruby Little? Becka is Revekka? Uuuuuggghh! I DON'T KNOW!!! I look forward the next book.

Great job, Mr. O'Rourke!

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

BRILLIANT... more needed immediately... like.... NOW please.
Too many questions left unanswered. "Thirsty.... so thirsty" Where have I heard that before?

[Gemma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book carnt wait for the next one

[Jdm74aol.com · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok

I'm not really loving it, but am to invested to not see how it ends. I think it has potential to be good, but is missing something.

[Kia Scarlette · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was struggling a bit to work through the flashbacks. But I still enjoyed it.