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Awakening #1
Forbidden Awakening
With the revelation that her boyfriend is cheating and her dream of attending college is over, Robyn Miller turns to Brandon, a man from her past. But on their date, she is soon drawn into a darker world.
During the full moon of each month, vampires are given permission to turn and welcome another amongst them. Brandon chose Robyn, the human he couldn’t resist. But tasting her and making her his is only the beginning. Their bond may start a prophecy that threatens the existence of all vampires, a prophecy known as the Awakening.
During the full moon of each month, vampires are given permission to turn and welcome another amongst them. Brandon chose Robyn, the human he couldn’t resist. But tasting her and making her his is only the beginning. Their bond may start a prophecy that threatens the existence of all vampires, a prophecy known as the Awakening.
First published April 22, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 31, 2016
I want to thank Ms. Hale for this book in exchange for an honest review. Please note that this is my own personal opinion and that wanting to read this book can't solely be based on my review.
The book had promising ideas but in saying that how much bad stuff can happen to someone?
So you set all your emotions aside and then go off with a guy you vaguely remember from the diner where you used to work. Robyn (that's the h) is taken by Brendan (H) and is chained to a radiator and he has to convince her to change. Well I was kinda lost after the poit where they couldn't be together.
The book had promising ideas but in saying that how much bad stuff can happen to someone?
So you set all your emotions aside and then go off with a guy you vaguely remember from the diner where you used to work. Robyn (that's the h) is taken by Brendan (H) and is chained to a radiator and he has to convince her to change. Well I was kinda lost after the poit where they couldn't be together.
March 6, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
2 no-no stars for me.
Let me first say that i really enjoy paranormal romance so i was really excited to read this book. A girl named Robyn, whose life is falling apart meets a super-hot guy, Brendan, who has a really dark secret. It sounded right up my alley and i expected great things from the premise.
The book just didn't do it for me. I didn't connect with the characters at all and there was no build up between Brendan and Robyn.
My biggest issue with the book though was how WHAT THE FUCK AM I READING everything was. Throughout this book i was constantly thinking what else does this girl has to go through.
Splitting parents? check!
Cheating boyfriend? check!
A vampire kidnapping her? double check!
And ohmyfuckinggod while she was kidnapped and chained the only think that was on her mind you would think was escape, well yeah for a normal person, but no she was just thinking how she wanted to have sex with the guy who kidnapped her. Right.
Lastly this insta loving-romance stuff. It was good with Twilight but now it's just boring. I would have liked it so much more if we could actually see they're relatioship develop.
Don't get me wrong. I believe this story has a LOT of potential. It was really different than most vampire books which was good but had a lot of errors for me to enjoy. I hope the author would wrap the story better in the second one.
This is my honest opinion and it shouldn't put you off from reading. I really hope you will like this more than i did if you decide to pick this up.
2 no-no stars for me.
Let me first say that i really enjoy paranormal romance so i was really excited to read this book. A girl named Robyn, whose life is falling apart meets a super-hot guy, Brendan, who has a really dark secret. It sounded right up my alley and i expected great things from the premise.
The book just didn't do it for me. I didn't connect with the characters at all and there was no build up between Brendan and Robyn.
My biggest issue with the book though was how WHAT THE FUCK AM I READING everything was. Throughout this book i was constantly thinking what else does this girl has to go through.
Splitting parents? check!
Cheating boyfriend? check!
A vampire kidnapping her? double check!
And ohmyfuckinggod while she was kidnapped and chained the only think that was on her mind you would think was escape, well yeah for a normal person, but no she was just thinking how she wanted to have sex with the guy who kidnapped her. Right.
Lastly this insta loving-romance stuff. It was good with Twilight but now it's just boring. I would have liked it so much more if we could actually see they're relatioship develop.
Don't get me wrong. I believe this story has a LOT of potential. It was really different than most vampire books which was good but had a lot of errors for me to enjoy. I hope the author would wrap the story better in the second one.
This is my honest opinion and it shouldn't put you off from reading. I really hope you will like this more than i did if you decide to pick this up.
September 18, 2014
**I received a copy from LoP group on goodreads in exchange for an honest review**
Now I have and always will love vampire books and though I did enjoy this book, I had some issues with it.
Robyn's life seems to be ruined all in one day. She finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her and that her parents are separating and her mother will be needing all her money which means that Robyn can no longer go the college she wants to. The next day her friend takes her out to try and cheer her up and while doing so runs in to Brandon and decides to go on a walk with him. But he ends up kidnapping her because he's a vampire and on the vampire council which mens that he is allowed to change a human every month into a vampire and he chooses Robyn.
Now when they had met, they both felt a connection to each other. I have no problem whatsoever with insta-love BUT the thing is I need development and connection between the characters to have that insta-love factor seem more real and believable and I didn't see or feel that here. and I really wish I did because it was still an enjoyable book.
In the end, I wished there had been more development between Robyn and Brandon and that there had been more information throughout the story regarding all the vampire stuff.
Now I have and always will love vampire books and though I did enjoy this book, I had some issues with it.
Robyn's life seems to be ruined all in one day. She finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her and that her parents are separating and her mother will be needing all her money which means that Robyn can no longer go the college she wants to. The next day her friend takes her out to try and cheer her up and while doing so runs in to Brandon and decides to go on a walk with him. But he ends up kidnapping her because he's a vampire and on the vampire council which mens that he is allowed to change a human every month into a vampire and he chooses Robyn.
Now when they had met, they both felt a connection to each other. I have no problem whatsoever with insta-love BUT the thing is I need development and connection between the characters to have that insta-love factor seem more real and believable and I didn't see or feel that here. and I really wish I did because it was still an enjoyable book.
In the end, I wished there had been more development between Robyn and Brandon and that there had been more information throughout the story regarding all the vampire stuff.
February 2, 2015
>>> I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. <<<
Robyn is a young girl disappointed by recent events of her life. She meets Brandon & we can see the attraction between them from the first moment. She goes for a walk with him and then everything is changing..
First of all , I'd like to say that this book has a lot of potential. It has an interesting plot & there were parts that I really enjoyed. It was fun, I loved the sarcasm at some points, it had suspense and it kept my interest. I did notice a few loopholes sadly and they made me confused. Overall, it was a good read.
Robyn is a young girl disappointed by recent events of her life. She meets Brandon & we can see the attraction between them from the first moment. She goes for a walk with him and then everything is changing..
First of all , I'd like to say that this book has a lot of potential. It has an interesting plot & there were parts that I really enjoyed. It was fun, I loved the sarcasm at some points, it had suspense and it kept my interest. I did notice a few loopholes sadly and they made me confused. Overall, it was a good read.
October 7, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
I was really looking forward to starting this book. In a genre that is overflowing with Vampire books, I was really hoping Forbidden Awakening was going to be a standout. Whilst it was slightly different from other vampire books I have read, It just didn't completely win me over.
The book had so much potential and I am hoping that the story and characters will be a lot more developed in the next book so that they can really shine.
The story was good and fairly easy to follow it just lacked that something extra that I needed to hook me in completely. Although, that being said I am quite interested to see how the whole prophecy develops in the future.
Overall, I think most lovers of NA-paranormal will enjoy this book. I am going to stick with it and hope the next book really gives me that little bit extra I was craving.
I was really looking forward to starting this book. In a genre that is overflowing with Vampire books, I was really hoping Forbidden Awakening was going to be a standout. Whilst it was slightly different from other vampire books I have read, It just didn't completely win me over.
The book had so much potential and I am hoping that the story and characters will be a lot more developed in the next book so that they can really shine.
The story was good and fairly easy to follow it just lacked that something extra that I needed to hook me in completely. Although, that being said I am quite interested to see how the whole prophecy develops in the future.
Overall, I think most lovers of NA-paranormal will enjoy this book. I am going to stick with it and hope the next book really gives me that little bit extra I was craving.
October 22, 2014
I received this copy for an honest review, and have the privilege of being in the group "Lovers of Paranormal"
I really enjoyed reading Robyn and Brandon's story! I wish that there was more insight on the whole diner thing that linked them together. I have not read very many vampire romance novels, so I didn't have much to compare it too, but I will say that while I was reading, it felt like Melinda Hale put her own twist on vampires, and it wasn't what I was expecting.
I do feel like the story was missing something, and it is probably just the fact that we (as the reader) do not find out what all the guidelines to being a vampire intel, due to a phone smashing . But I am looking forward to reading the sequel!
I really enjoyed reading Robyn and Brandon's story! I wish that there was more insight on the whole diner thing that linked them together. I have not read very many vampire romance novels, so I didn't have much to compare it too, but I will say that while I was reading, it felt like Melinda Hale put her own twist on vampires, and it wasn't what I was expecting.
I do feel like the story was missing something, and it is probably just the fact that we (as the reader) do not find out what all the guidelines to being a vampire intel, due to a phone smashing . But I am looking forward to reading the sequel!
September 14, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This review reflects my own personal opinion.
Robyn is a 20 year old woman who has just been slapped with a double whammy in the same day. Her parents are divorcing, therefore they have to move and her college future is put in jeopardy. While seeking out comfort from her long term boyfriend she discovers that he has been cheating on her! Ouch! Enter Brandon, a sexy stranger with a dark secret and an even darker plan for Robyn, and her life goes from bad...to supernatural.
At first reading this book I thought it seemed full of potential and pretty good, if not a little slow to start. I expected great things from an interesting premise, the characters (in particular Robyn) come across as strong and entertaining, and the writing at the start is clear, in depth, and flows well. The story didn't really grab me but I was intrigued enough to continue on in the hopes that once it got going I could really get into it.
But it just never did it for me.
After an average start, the story changes gear and becomes too fast - almost rushed. I know, I know the poor author can't win here. But my problem with this is that in speeding up too fast you lose the depth of the story and the growth/learning of the characters. So I found myself quickly becoming disengaged with the story and disconnected from the characters.
There was so many great concepts (it is not just an average vampire love story) which had so much potential, but to me fell short because they simply weren't explored further. I wanted to know more about 'The Awakening' and the council, and being a newborn - but we never got to learn more as it was seemingly glossed over as if it wasn't an important part to the plot (which I felt it was).
My biggest problem however was how unbelievable things were. I know it is paranormal but it just completely distracted me from the story itself. Things constantly niggled at me - what is the deal with her parents? Why would someone go off with a perfect stranger for sex?
I thought they were WAY too quick to accept the possibility of Brandon being supernatural. I mean this is supposed to be normal people and normal life - so why would you jump to that conclusion so fast? And then Robyn seems WAY too quick to accept being a vampire; leaving her old life behind and killing people. And to accept that he lied to her about Jared just like that?
Then there is her relationship with Brandon. URGHHHH! Insta-relationship/love/romance..whatever is great IF you delve into that connection and create some emotional depth/growth to relate to. That didn't happen. But then to have Brandon turn her for the sake of this connection, and then resist a romance for most of the book???? Nope. Nope. No! So frustrating. At least make the chemistry stand out to keep the romance interesting.
Overall, I found this book just didn't keep my attention. Not for me. I won't be continuing on.
Warning: explicit language and sexual content
Robyn is a 20 year old woman who has just been slapped with a double whammy in the same day. Her parents are divorcing, therefore they have to move and her college future is put in jeopardy. While seeking out comfort from her long term boyfriend she discovers that he has been cheating on her! Ouch! Enter Brandon, a sexy stranger with a dark secret and an even darker plan for Robyn, and her life goes from bad...to supernatural.
At first reading this book I thought it seemed full of potential and pretty good, if not a little slow to start. I expected great things from an interesting premise, the characters (in particular Robyn) come across as strong and entertaining, and the writing at the start is clear, in depth, and flows well. The story didn't really grab me but I was intrigued enough to continue on in the hopes that once it got going I could really get into it.
But it just never did it for me.
After an average start, the story changes gear and becomes too fast - almost rushed. I know, I know the poor author can't win here. But my problem with this is that in speeding up too fast you lose the depth of the story and the growth/learning of the characters. So I found myself quickly becoming disengaged with the story and disconnected from the characters.
There was so many great concepts (it is not just an average vampire love story) which had so much potential, but to me fell short because they simply weren't explored further. I wanted to know more about 'The Awakening' and the council, and being a newborn - but we never got to learn more as it was seemingly glossed over as if it wasn't an important part to the plot (which I felt it was).
My biggest problem however was how unbelievable things were. I know it is paranormal but it just completely distracted me from the story itself. Things constantly niggled at me - what is the deal with her parents? Why would someone go off with a perfect stranger for sex?
I thought they were WAY too quick to accept the possibility of Brandon being supernatural. I mean this is supposed to be normal people and normal life - so why would you jump to that conclusion so fast? And then Robyn seems WAY too quick to accept being a vampire; leaving her old life behind and killing people. And to accept that he lied to her about Jared just like that?
Then there is her relationship with Brandon. URGHHHH! Insta-relationship/love/romance..whatever is great IF you delve into that connection and create some emotional depth/growth to relate to. That didn't happen. But then to have Brandon turn her for the sake of this connection, and then resist a romance for most of the book???? Nope. Nope. No! So frustrating. At least make the chemistry stand out to keep the romance interesting.
Overall, I found this book just didn't keep my attention. Not for me. I won't be continuing on.
Warning: explicit language and sexual content
November 2, 2014
I think I was fooled by the synopsis.
I thought it would be interesting and while this book has potential, it didn't do anything for me.
I was disappointed how the book turned out to be not mention the characters. I couldn't even connect to them nor their relationship with one another. The story felt dried up. Sure, there's a plot going on but the way the direction turned, it was just disappointing.
It was kind of a cliche in which Robyn's life was spiraling down with her parent's getting a divorce, financial problems, her boyfriend cheating on her, and lastly the guy she dated after her boyfriend kidnapped and turned her to a vampire.
Now, she has to turn her back on her old life and begin her new life as a vampire but all is not easy when there are hunters after her kind, it's forbidden to have a relationship with her sire, a jealous vampiress turned by her sire, and a prophecy/myth called "Awakening". Oh,and the council was after them at the ending.
Seriously, I think she was better left off as a human than becoming a vampire. I also found Robyn's character dumb and weak. Yes. She's a vampire and she had those powers but she hasn't really changed. And everything that they were experiencing was majorly her fault. I know that Brandon had his faults and well, they wouldn't be in that situation if it weren't for him. But still, it was ridiculous that something always turned up wrong. It was also kind of obvious that Lucinda was bad from the start. Robyn should have trusted her instincts in the first place. And don't forget the woman whom her ex cheated with.
I find that the last parts of the story was rush. The book could have been better but there were somethings that were missing including the character build up.
The ending was a total cliffhanger even if they were together and they are in trouble no thanks to Robyn.
I would still like to follow this series if only to see it gets better and how the ending would be for H/h.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
I thought it would be interesting and while this book has potential, it didn't do anything for me.
I was disappointed how the book turned out to be not mention the characters. I couldn't even connect to them nor their relationship with one another. The story felt dried up. Sure, there's a plot going on but the way the direction turned, it was just disappointing.
It was kind of a cliche in which Robyn's life was spiraling down with her parent's getting a divorce, financial problems, her boyfriend cheating on her, and lastly the guy she dated after her boyfriend kidnapped and turned her to a vampire.
Now, she has to turn her back on her old life and begin her new life as a vampire but all is not easy when there are hunters after her kind, it's forbidden to have a relationship with her sire, a jealous vampiress turned by her sire, and a prophecy/myth called "Awakening". Oh,and the council was after them at the ending.
Seriously, I think she was better left off as a human than becoming a vampire. I also found Robyn's character dumb and weak. Yes. She's a vampire and she had those powers but she hasn't really changed. And everything that they were experiencing was majorly her fault. I know that Brandon had his faults and well, they wouldn't be in that situation if it weren't for him. But still, it was ridiculous that something always turned up wrong. It was also kind of obvious that Lucinda was bad from the start. Robyn should have trusted her instincts in the first place. And don't forget the woman whom her ex cheated with.
I find that the last parts of the story was rush. The book could have been better but there were somethings that were missing including the character build up.
The ending was a total cliffhanger even if they were together and they are in trouble no thanks to Robyn.
I would still like to follow this series if only to see it gets better and how the ending would be for H/h.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
May 14, 2014
Hhhhmmm... Well, I had high hopes for this story. Based on the cover and prologue. But it just fell short for me. There was a choppy flow for me. Too many ideas in one storyline. The characters were sort of one dimensional and lacked depth. There was no relationships. No emotions really.
There were several confusing areas for me. ~~
One, I was confused as to the age of Robyn. The character led us to think in the beginning that she w fresh out of high school, getting ready for college. But then later on it appeared she was 22.
She catches her boyfriend misbehaving and then runs off with a guy (Brandon) she barely remember from the diner where she used to work. Then said guy becomes kidnapper and chains both you and misbehaving boyfriend (Jared) in the basement of a house, where she is given an ultimatum for change. I was confused why Jared was brought there after he was knocked out?
Third area of confusion for me was regarding intimacy - What was the deal of Brandon wanting her, turning her, but not being allowed to "have" her?
Then later he goes on to say - "“I know you how felt beneath me, how you tasted. No other man can claim that.”
Only to become intimate at a later time... Bizarre!
I did think the death of Sandy added to the story - it was well deserved... Otherwise it was sorta on the goodie-goodie side of stories...
I also found a few flaws that really popped out at me. One was :
“He had several other houses around the west coast, all based around the Big Apple, and it would take the hunters years to find him”...
The Big Apple is East Coast... LOL!
Still, I enjoyed reading it, I just thought it needed to be developed more with some depth and character details.
There were several confusing areas for me. ~~
One, I was confused as to the age of Robyn. The character led us to think in the beginning that she w fresh out of high school, getting ready for college. But then later on it appeared she was 22.
She catches her boyfriend misbehaving and then runs off with a guy (Brandon) she barely remember from the diner where she used to work. Then said guy becomes kidnapper and chains both you and misbehaving boyfriend (Jared) in the basement of a house, where she is given an ultimatum for change. I was confused why Jared was brought there after he was knocked out?
Third area of confusion for me was regarding intimacy - What was the deal of Brandon wanting her, turning her, but not being allowed to "have" her?
Then later he goes on to say - "“I know you how felt beneath me, how you tasted. No other man can claim that.”
Only to become intimate at a later time... Bizarre!
I did think the death of Sandy added to the story - it was well deserved... Otherwise it was sorta on the goodie-goodie side of stories...
I also found a few flaws that really popped out at me. One was :
“He had several other houses around the west coast, all based around the Big Apple, and it would take the hunters years to find him”...
The Big Apple is East Coast... LOL!
Still, I enjoyed reading it, I just thought it needed to be developed more with some depth and character details.
October 13, 2014
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I feel the need to apologize and to emphasize that this is just my opinion over the book and don't intend to hurt anyone's feelings.
I didn't like the book, even though the story has potential, something is missing and some things are too much. I read the whole book in order to be able to fulfill the review.
In the too much category, Robyn, is a girl whose parents are divorcing, blowing up her affective and material life and who on top pf that finds her boyfriend cheating on her. Moments after, both her and the boyfriend, are kidnapped by a scary person (well, vampire) and the only thought in her mind is how attracted she is to the guy, no fear of what happens, no more pain over the loss of the beloved boyfriend with whom she intended a serious relationship... it's getting worse, the unknown guy turns to be a customer she was very attracted to, but if there was such a big attraction, how doesn't she immediately recognize him? The inconsistencies go the same way on Brandon's side-he wants to be in the Council, then she wants to fulfill the prophecy, then he wants a life with Robyn...
The problem in the something missing department is the lack of chemistry or connection whatsoever between Brandon and Robyn-it feels artificially built, forced upon them and consequently lacks the charisma for the reader.
I feel the need to apologize and to emphasize that this is just my opinion over the book and don't intend to hurt anyone's feelings.
I didn't like the book, even though the story has potential, something is missing and some things are too much. I read the whole book in order to be able to fulfill the review.
In the too much category, Robyn, is a girl whose parents are divorcing, blowing up her affective and material life and who on top pf that finds her boyfriend cheating on her. Moments after, both her and the boyfriend, are kidnapped by a scary person (well, vampire) and the only thought in her mind is how attracted she is to the guy, no fear of what happens, no more pain over the loss of the beloved boyfriend with whom she intended a serious relationship... it's getting worse, the unknown guy turns to be a customer she was very attracted to, but if there was such a big attraction, how doesn't she immediately recognize him? The inconsistencies go the same way on Brandon's side-he wants to be in the Council, then she wants to fulfill the prophecy, then he wants a life with Robyn...
The problem in the something missing department is the lack of chemistry or connection whatsoever between Brandon and Robyn-it feels artificially built, forced upon them and consequently lacks the charisma for the reader.
August 23, 2014
I loved this book. Robyn's life is falling apart. Her parents are separating and she runs to her longtime boyfriend for comfort only to find him with another woman. Her friend takes her shopping the next day to try to cheer her up and she meets Brandon whom she had met when she was working at a diner. There has always been a very strong attraction between them. After a few things happen she is given the choice. He wants to turn her into a vampire. Both still feel the incredible attraction between them and both do not understand it. They are trying to fight it but it will not be ignored. Brandon cannot explain why he is so drawn to Robyn. But even vampires have problems that they must overcome. This is an amazing love story that this author creates. It is hard to believe this is her first paranormal romance. I definitely will continue to read any further books because this will be a great series. The sequel, Grave Temptation, is now available. I want a Brandon of my very own but If you love vampires and romance this is a book for you.
I received this book as a gift from the author for my honest review and it in no way reflects my opinion.
I received this book as a gift from the author for my honest review and it in no way reflects my opinion.
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September 23, 2014Robyn is a high school student who sees her life as good. She has hopes of going to college with a wonderful boyfriend. That is until she comes home and her mother tells her that her parents are getting divorced and her father will not be paying for her college. Upset about the news of her parents, she runs to her boyfriend’s apartment only to find him with another girl. From there Robyn has to get her life back on track and while doing so she meets Brandon. Brandon has his own secrets about who he is.
These types of stories have been told a hundred times and I love them, but this one even though the premise was there, it was not executed properly. The problem was that the writing was very wordy; too much inner dialogue with a lot of unnecessary information. The author mentioned that the heroine parked in a bad neighborhood. It was not necessary to add that she had “to hide her iPod within her car before locking up and heading into the building.” Sentences like that are just unnecessary fillers. At times, I noticed I was losing interest. The heroine inner thoughts were childish at times.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
These types of stories have been told a hundred times and I love them, but this one even though the premise was there, it was not executed properly. The problem was that the writing was very wordy; too much inner dialogue with a lot of unnecessary information. The author mentioned that the heroine parked in a bad neighborhood. It was not necessary to add that she had “to hide her iPod within her car before locking up and heading into the building.” Sentences like that are just unnecessary fillers. At times, I noticed I was losing interest. The heroine inner thoughts were childish at times.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2014
I'm not a massive fan of vampire books but this one sounded like it was different from the others and im glad I read it.
it's a very fast pace book from the get go.
from Robyn learning her parents are getting divorced and won't help her with college fees plus her mother wants Robyn to give her her savings so they can rent somewhere to catching her boyfriend cheating all in one day and the second day she meets Brandon fancies him rotten basically gets kidnapped and within days she chooses to become a vampire.
even though it's all bit quick I did like the main characters and I did like the idea of this big prophecy that two vampires so in love and well connected to each other will unite humans and vampires oh after first starting a war.
as the vampire council don't know exactly what will happen if this prophecy is true they now what Robyn dead and Brandon won't allow it so he is now also a target.
so it ends with the two on the run from their own kind.
I think I will read the next one as I am interested to see how the lovebirds get on and if this prophecy is true :)
it's a very fast pace book from the get go.
from Robyn learning her parents are getting divorced and won't help her with college fees plus her mother wants Robyn to give her her savings so they can rent somewhere to catching her boyfriend cheating all in one day and the second day she meets Brandon fancies him rotten basically gets kidnapped and within days she chooses to become a vampire.
even though it's all bit quick I did like the main characters and I did like the idea of this big prophecy that two vampires so in love and well connected to each other will unite humans and vampires oh after first starting a war.
as the vampire council don't know exactly what will happen if this prophecy is true they now what Robyn dead and Brandon won't allow it so he is now also a target.
so it ends with the two on the run from their own kind.
I think I will read the next one as I am interested to see how the lovebirds get on and if this prophecy is true :)
September 15, 2014
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Author: Melinda Hale
Book: Forbidden Awakening
My Star Rating: 2 out of 5
Will I read I read it again?
This review is my honest opinion and I have fully read this book. I received this book for an honest review from Advanced Copies for Review & Book Giveaways.
As I was reading this, I just couldn’t get a handle on the main characters. I really didn’t see any back story on anyone and it just seemed kind of a cold reading.
As I was reading, it was hard to really peg an age to Robyn. I thought that her reaction to her parents’ divorce was kind of a reaction to a young person. But then she goes to her friend’s house and is old enough to drink liquor. So really hard to peg ones age on her.
Brandon kidnaps her and she still thinks of having sex with him while she is scared. I really am not into Stockholm syndrome and I feel like this book was just not for me.
Author: Melinda Hale
Book: Forbidden Awakening
My Star Rating: 2 out of 5
Will I read I read it again?
This review is my honest opinion and I have fully read this book. I received this book for an honest review from Advanced Copies for Review & Book Giveaways.
As I was reading this, I just couldn’t get a handle on the main characters. I really didn’t see any back story on anyone and it just seemed kind of a cold reading.
As I was reading, it was hard to really peg an age to Robyn. I thought that her reaction to her parents’ divorce was kind of a reaction to a young person. But then she goes to her friend’s house and is old enough to drink liquor. So really hard to peg ones age on her.
Brandon kidnaps her and she still thinks of having sex with him while she is scared. I really am not into Stockholm syndrome and I feel like this book was just not for me.
September 27, 2014
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.***
2.5 out of 5 stars
I am going to start off by saying that this book had a lot of potential. I am a huge fan of vampire/paranormal romance and I wanted so badly to love this book, however it fell short for a number of reasons.
First off, there isn't a great deal of character development for any of the characters. I don't feel like I ever got a chance to really know Robyn, and what I did left me a little confused...something as simple as her age, was she a recent high school graduate? Was she a legal drinking 22 yr old? Second, in the great words of Dr. Phil.."What in the hell were you thinking?" Seriously? Robyn just decides to go on a date...or walk...or whatever that was supposed to be with someone she doesn't know? Zero self preservation. Third, the book just took a long time getting to where it had to go. By the time I actually became interested in the plot, it was over.
2.5 out of 5 stars
I am going to start off by saying that this book had a lot of potential. I am a huge fan of vampire/paranormal romance and I wanted so badly to love this book, however it fell short for a number of reasons.
First off, there isn't a great deal of character development for any of the characters. I don't feel like I ever got a chance to really know Robyn, and what I did left me a little confused...something as simple as her age, was she a recent high school graduate? Was she a legal drinking 22 yr old? Second, in the great words of Dr. Phil.."What in the hell were you thinking?" Seriously? Robyn just decides to go on a date...or walk...or whatever that was supposed to be with someone she doesn't know? Zero self preservation. Third, the book just took a long time getting to where it had to go. By the time I actually became interested in the plot, it was over.
August 2, 2014
~I received Forbidden Awakening as an advance copy exchange for an honest.~
Forbidding Awakening was an so-so read for me. While it was ok to read, the story wasn't what I thought it would be. The main part that got me was the fact that Brandon and Robyn couldn't be together truly due to his resistance (YET he pursuit her!!!), despite the fact that he had his altered motives for not yet being with Robyn-yea, that part got me. It messed up the whole romance aspect for me. It's the main reason why I marked this vampiric story with two stars. The story seemed a bit rushed, but the concepts woven together in this story was rather interesting to read about, and they were a new twist on things in the vampire world. I may finished reading the whole series out of curiously, and if I can find the whole series in a bookstore.
Forbidding Awakening was an so-so read for me. While it was ok to read, the story wasn't what I thought it would be. The main part that got me was the fact that Brandon and Robyn couldn't be together truly due to his resistance (YET he pursuit her!!!), despite the fact that he had his altered motives for not yet being with Robyn-yea, that part got me. It messed up the whole romance aspect for me. It's the main reason why I marked this vampiric story with two stars. The story seemed a bit rushed, but the concepts woven together in this story was rather interesting to read about, and they were a new twist on things in the vampire world. I may finished reading the whole series out of curiously, and if I can find the whole series in a bookstore.
September 18, 2014
This was a fun little read, putting a slightly different spin on vampires. I know the topic has been written about and filmed many times over and it is nice to see that someone still has some imagination to give it at different twist. The whole concept of the prophecy intrigues me and I want to find out more. The characters were not that well developed, but are very likeable nonetheless. I think this might be partially due to it being a series of books and I hope that in the future ones I will find out more about these two, especially Brandon who is still a bit of an enigma.
I did enjoy this book and will read the next one when it comes out since it was left rather open at the end. I really want to know what that prophecy is all about.
I have received this book from the author for an honest review (LoP, lovers of the paranormal).
I did enjoy this book and will read the next one when it comes out since it was left rather open at the end. I really want to know what that prophecy is all about.
I have received this book from the author for an honest review (LoP, lovers of the paranormal).
December 7, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Lovers of Paranormal or LoP*
Robyn is devastated to learn her boyfriend has been unfaithful. So when she meets sexy and mysterious Brandon she decides he's what she needs. Even though she senses something "dark" about him. Turns out that Brandon is a vampire and wants to turn Robyn so they can be together forever.
I really liked this book! After the Twilight craze I stayed away from vampire stories. I'm very pleased that this is the one I decided to try. To read the background of these particular vampires was fun to read. The characters were exciting and steamy. If you're kinda tired of Edward Cullen and want something new, then I recommend this book. You'll love it!
DISCLAIMER *theres nothing wrong with Edward Cullen. I love him too! But now I love Brandon too!*
Robyn is devastated to learn her boyfriend has been unfaithful. So when she meets sexy and mysterious Brandon she decides he's what she needs. Even though she senses something "dark" about him. Turns out that Brandon is a vampire and wants to turn Robyn so they can be together forever.
I really liked this book! After the Twilight craze I stayed away from vampire stories. I'm very pleased that this is the one I decided to try. To read the background of these particular vampires was fun to read. The characters were exciting and steamy. If you're kinda tired of Edward Cullen and want something new, then I recommend this book. You'll love it!
DISCLAIMER *theres nothing wrong with Edward Cullen. I love him too! But now I love Brandon too!*
September 27, 2014
I received a free copy for an honest review.
First off, let me say I love paranormal romance. My favorite genre. So I was excited to read this: girl meets vampire but doesn't realize what he is, girls life falls apart, girl gets kidnapped by this super-hot vamp who wants to turn her, girl succumbs to her list and becomes a vamp...yada yada...
Now, I don't mind a good kidnapping. But this chic, Robyn, had a severe case of Stockholm syndrome and went from hate to lust to "sure I'll let you turn me into a vampire" in what feels like 5 seconds flat. I didn't "bond" with any of these characters. I didn't really even like them. I found myself skipping just to get through the tedious and unnecessary scene descriptions that made no difference to the story and merely served to annoy me.
Overall, not thrilled with this book and I will not be finishing this series...
First off, let me say I love paranormal romance. My favorite genre. So I was excited to read this: girl meets vampire but doesn't realize what he is, girls life falls apart, girl gets kidnapped by this super-hot vamp who wants to turn her, girl succumbs to her list and becomes a vamp...yada yada...
Now, I don't mind a good kidnapping. But this chic, Robyn, had a severe case of Stockholm syndrome and went from hate to lust to "sure I'll let you turn me into a vampire" in what feels like 5 seconds flat. I didn't "bond" with any of these characters. I didn't really even like them. I found myself skipping just to get through the tedious and unnecessary scene descriptions that made no difference to the story and merely served to annoy me.
Overall, not thrilled with this book and I will not be finishing this series...
May 6, 2014
A high four star book!
I got this book for an honest review.
I truly enjoyed this book. There was Romance, action, suspense, pretty much everything you could want. This book had some parts I truly didn't understand but that's ok. I've read a lot of books like that and then I just think an then I understand. Robyn was a great h but at times she was childish and dramatic, but not badly.
Brandon was a great hero too, he was funny and charming and really sexy l. He had that power to make you want him.
The plot of this story was different then why I've read before when it came to vampires and I really enjoyed it. The title of this book plays a huge part in this story and made me love it even more! I can't wait for the next one and to see what's instore for Robyn and Brandon.
I got this book for an honest review.
I truly enjoyed this book. There was Romance, action, suspense, pretty much everything you could want. This book had some parts I truly didn't understand but that's ok. I've read a lot of books like that and then I just think an then I understand. Robyn was a great h but at times she was childish and dramatic, but not badly.
Brandon was a great hero too, he was funny and charming and really sexy l. He had that power to make you want him.
The plot of this story was different then why I've read before when it came to vampires and I really enjoyed it. The title of this book plays a huge part in this story and made me love it even more! I can't wait for the next one and to see what's instore for Robyn and Brandon.
September 11, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com.
This was an interesting twist on the typical vampire story. I enjoyed the characters. Robyn had everything go wrong in her life all at once and decides on a new path. She thinks Brandon is what she wants but things get very complicated. There is a twist that doesn't allow her dreams to actually come true and she tries to distance her feelings for Brandon. Brandon has a high position with the vampire council and is bound by their laws so he is not allowed a relationship with Robyn. When things take a sudden turn for the worse Brandon and Robyn have to decide where the future will take them. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
This was an interesting twist on the typical vampire story. I enjoyed the characters. Robyn had everything go wrong in her life all at once and decides on a new path. She thinks Brandon is what she wants but things get very complicated. There is a twist that doesn't allow her dreams to actually come true and she tries to distance her feelings for Brandon. Brandon has a high position with the vampire council and is bound by their laws so he is not allowed a relationship with Robyn. When things take a sudden turn for the worse Brandon and Robyn have to decide where the future will take them. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
March 10, 2016
*Received copy in return for honest review*
This book, I was really looking forward to reading this book, it sounded amazing based on the synopsis. This novel although really entertaining seemed to be all over the place, maybe too many ideas getting crammed into one story, I'm not sure. The pace was a bit choppy, not a steady flow, and the the characters lacked depth and true emotion.
Some of the details were a bit wrong, like the west coast being home to "the big apple", just little things that most people wouldn't notice or care about (but I'm a crazy stickler for the little things). Overall this novel is really entertaining and worth reading, and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys a good slightly complicated vampy read.
This book, I was really looking forward to reading this book, it sounded amazing based on the synopsis. This novel although really entertaining seemed to be all over the place, maybe too many ideas getting crammed into one story, I'm not sure. The pace was a bit choppy, not a steady flow, and the the characters lacked depth and true emotion.
Some of the details were a bit wrong, like the west coast being home to "the big apple", just little things that most people wouldn't notice or care about (but I'm a crazy stickler for the little things). Overall this novel is really entertaining and worth reading, and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys a good slightly complicated vampy read.
June 6, 2014
I received this book from the author and the Advanced Copies for Review & Book Giveaways group in exchange for a honest review.
My Thoughts: This was an OK read for me! I felt there was something missing. The whole Stockholm Syndrome was kind of weird. I don't understand how someone can fall in love with someone who kidnaps them and chains them up. I realize he thought he had to in order to explain to her the whole vampire turning situation, but he should have done it in a different way. There was no build up in the relationship between the hero and the heroine. It ends on a cliffhanger, but I probably won't read the next book.
Overall, the romance did not keep my attention.
My Thoughts: This was an OK read for me! I felt there was something missing. The whole Stockholm Syndrome was kind of weird. I don't understand how someone can fall in love with someone who kidnaps them and chains them up. I realize he thought he had to in order to explain to her the whole vampire turning situation, but he should have done it in a different way. There was no build up in the relationship between the hero and the heroine. It ends on a cliffhanger, but I probably won't read the next book.
Overall, the romance did not keep my attention.
September 28, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Do you like entertaining vampire stories? Then this book is made for you ! I really enjoyed this book. You can easily get into the story. Even if it starts very quickly, I like the fact that it does not contain 100 pages of useless background information. There is a good balance between drama and action. The story is really easy to follow, a good page turner ! (SPOILER) However I did not like the fact that Robyn, get turned into a vampire so quickly. Moreover, I would have liked the book to be longer, to include more details.I also really wanted more romance between Robyn and Brandon.
Do you like entertaining vampire stories? Then this book is made for you ! I really enjoyed this book. You can easily get into the story. Even if it starts very quickly, I like the fact that it does not contain 100 pages of useless background information. There is a good balance between drama and action. The story is really easy to follow, a good page turner ! (SPOILER) However I did not like the fact that Robyn, get turned into a vampire so quickly. Moreover, I would have liked the book to be longer, to include more details.I also really wanted more romance between Robyn and Brandon.
September 19, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
This was an interesting book. It had everything I like.
# Vampires
# Cheating boyfriend
# Love at first sight
# Hunters
The list could go on and on, but these are the most important ones.
I have been reading vampire books since I was 15 years old and it's refreshing to read one were the male MC isn't a "master vampire".
It's fun to look forward to the next book, which I will be picknig up when it is released.
This was an interesting book. It had everything I like.
# Vampires
# Cheating boyfriend
# Love at first sight
# Hunters
The list could go on and on, but these are the most important ones.
I have been reading vampire books since I was 15 years old and it's refreshing to read one were the male MC isn't a "master vampire".
It's fun to look forward to the next book, which I will be picknig up when it is released.
September 13, 2014
I was given this book for an honest review by lovers of paranormal group. On a scale of 1-10 it was a solid 4. The story itself was interesting, but could have been written better. It seemed like the author was trying to take a YA book and make into an erotica with a vampire twist. There was real potential for an amazing book it really needed more than an outline summary. There were no grammatical errors, but the sentence phasing was distracting. I would read the next book by her because it left you wanting to know how things were going to end with the Awakening.
November 19, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Paranormal/Romance/Vampire
I was looking forward to reading this as the premise of the book seemed interesting. But I have to say that it fell flat for me. Everything that could go wrong in Robyn's life happens in the book, making it feel totally cliche (parents splitting up, boyfriend cheats, gets kidnapped by a vampire). I didn't feel the chemistry between Robyn & Brendan and frankly as soon as I finished it - I couldn't remember what happened.
Paranormal/Romance/Vampire
I was looking forward to reading this as the premise of the book seemed interesting. But I have to say that it fell flat for me. Everything that could go wrong in Robyn's life happens in the book, making it feel totally cliche (parents splitting up, boyfriend cheats, gets kidnapped by a vampire). I didn't feel the chemistry between Robyn & Brendan and frankly as soon as I finished it - I couldn't remember what happened.
September 27, 2014
I would like to thank the author for providing me a copy of this book to review. This story was well written and has a storyline full of great ideas. I did enjoy reading it. I did however feel that the story ran too fast and lacked a strong emotional current. Since I personally need a strong emotional element from my reads, I was unable to fully enjoy this book to it's full potential. This review is only my personal opinion and I would still recommend it to people who like a quick read :)
June 10, 2014
I loved the vampire-in-New-York universe and there was some lovely detail about vampire psychology. Also liked the heroine, Robyn, and the hero Brandon is suitably mysterious. There's tonnes of detail here and I loved the story but parts of it are a bit rushed.
This is HFN and standalone although there will clearly be a book 2. I'll be reading it!
PS I was given this copy for review by the author as part of the
A Little Bit of Everything Hot Goodreads group.
This is HFN and standalone although there will clearly be a book 2. I'll be reading it!
PS I was given this copy for review by the author as part of the
A Little Bit of Everything Hot Goodreads group.
October 9, 2014
I really did enjoy this book. Who doesn't love a good vampire book. It was a short and easy read with tons of action, suspense, drama and I loved the whole prophecy twist. The attraction between Robyn and Brandon was instant. I did however feel the relationship was rushed. I did feel it needed more development. But overall this book did have an interesting twist then your typical vampire story. Look forward to reading second book in this series.
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