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Midnight Breed #3
Geschöpf der Finsternis
Mit dem Dolch in der Hand durchstreift Elise Chase die Straßen von Boston, um sich an den Vampiren zu rächen, die ihr das Liebste genommen haben. Elise hat die Gabe, ihre Beute durch übersinnliche Kräfte aufzuspüren. Auf der Suche nach einem Lehrmeister trifft sie auf den tödlichsten aller Vampirkrieger – Tegan. Die beiden verbünden sich, und bald entfesselt sich eine Leidenschaft, die Elise in die dunkelsten Abgründe ihres Herzens führt...
416 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2007
499 people are currently reading
9172 people want to read
About the author
Lara Adrian
92 books11k followersLARA ADRIAN is a New York Times and #1 internationally best-selling author with nearly 4 million books in print and digital worldwide and translations licensed to more than 20 countries. Her books have been named among Amazon’s Top Ten Romances of the Year, and have also been nominated by readers multiple times as finalists for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance of the Year. Reviewers have called Lara’s books “addictively readable” (Chicago Tribune), “extraordinary” (Fresh Fiction), “strikingly original” (Booklist), and “one of the best vampire series on the market” (Romantic Times).
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,217 reviews
August 16, 2018
5 OMG someone hose me down it's Tegan Stars
OMFG I am so in love with Tegan! He was just so badass, damaged, and lickable! Tegan lost his 1st breedmate in the worst way ever and it nearly drove him rouge. He had his walls up and didn't let anyone in. He was so alone and cold I just wanted to make him all better. Elise who was more demure in the last book came out kicking major ass in this one. She lost her Breedmate and then her teenage son. She has nothing left but making those that killed her son pay. I loved how much stronger Elise was in this book. She made a great mate for my Tegan. Tegan was a beast in bed and the smexy time in this book was melting my kindle it was so good. They just had so much chemistry. I loved when Tegan told Elise he loved her for the first time. I totally swooned.
“I’ll admit it to you now, and to anyone, anytime. I need you, Elise. I love you. You are mine. My woman, my mate, my beloved. My everything.”-Tegan
I liked how classy Chase handled Elise moving on with Tegan. I felt bad for him though as he was so in love with her and she didn't feel anything but brother like love for him. I also enjoyed getting to know the newer warriors better. There was a cute bromance moment with Tegan and Lucan. I love the deep friendships between the warriors. It was good seeing Rio up and about and going on missions. The plot in this book was really good. Lots of action. I wouldn't read these books as standalones as they all tie together. Andreas was interesting and I can't wait to get more of his back story. Marek got his and I so enjoyed it. I also like the new turn the series is taking. Overall I loved this book. Tegan and Elise are one of my top 3 Midnight breed couples.
OMFG I am so in love with Tegan! He was just so badass, damaged, and lickable! Tegan lost his 1st breedmate in the worst way ever and it nearly drove him rouge. He had his walls up and didn't let anyone in. He was so alone and cold I just wanted to make him all better. Elise who was more demure in the last book came out kicking major ass in this one. She lost her Breedmate and then her teenage son. She has nothing left but making those that killed her son pay. I loved how much stronger Elise was in this book. She made a great mate for my Tegan. Tegan was a beast in bed and the smexy time in this book was melting my kindle it was so good. They just had so much chemistry. I loved when Tegan told Elise he loved her for the first time. I totally swooned.
“I’ll admit it to you now, and to anyone, anytime. I need you, Elise. I love you. You are mine. My woman, my mate, my beloved. My everything.”-Tegan
I liked how classy Chase handled Elise moving on with Tegan. I felt bad for him though as he was so in love with her and she didn't feel anything but brother like love for him. I also enjoyed getting to know the newer warriors better. There was a cute bromance moment with Tegan and Lucan. I love the deep friendships between the warriors. It was good seeing Rio up and about and going on missions. The plot in this book was really good. Lots of action. I wouldn't read these books as standalones as they all tie together. Andreas was interesting and I can't wait to get more of his back story. Marek got his and I so enjoyed it. I also like the new turn the series is taking. Overall I loved this book. Tegan and Elise are one of my top 3 Midnight breed couples.
August 21, 2024
I’ve been reading these a bit out of order as the library doesn’t always have them when I’m ready to read them, but now I’m to book three, Elise and Tegan! This was a fun one. Both Elise and Tegan are scarred by the past and the loss of people they loved—mates, and also in Elise’s case, the fresh loss of her son. She’s out for revenge and is hunting rogue vampires and minions on the streets. (Elise was awesome!) Both of them also have psychic abilities, which was an interesting twist. Each of the characters in the series have some sort of special ability, so it’s always fun to see how that impacts them. In this case, it’s rather torturing Elise as she can’t shut out the thoughts of those around her. This got rather steamy when in order to hunt rogues, Elise was forced to drink from Tegan. We can all guess where things went next. I really enjoyed the world building in this one, particularly seeing the Darkhaven in Berlin and the further development on vampires who have gone rogue.
October 27, 2015
If I were a vampire, I would totally want to go around killing assholes. It would be awesome to cure society's ills every time I wanted a snack. Maybe I'd even make some sort of spandex suit with a giant V on the front and be some sort of superhero vigilante. That would be sweet.
And, have you ever noticed how wealthy vampires in all these books seem to be? They live in mansions, drive cars that cost more than my house, wear designer everything... and yet they don't have jobs. What the hell?
But, with my luck, I would end up one of those vampires from Sookie Stackhouse and get stuck living in some shitty trailer park working the night shift at Walmart.
If you don't know about Shane, the Walmart employee, you need to check it out. He's my hero!
http://www.foodbeast.com/news/this-wa...
Anyway, these vampires are the rich kind. And, they don't kill for sport. Boring!
In this book, we have Tegan, a totally badass warrior who lost his wife hundreds of years ago and is an emotionless hardened killer. He really is my favorite of all of the guys. Something about his cold, unsympathetic heart really makes me swoon.
Tegan gets involved with Elise, a lady who lost her husband and son and is on a mission to kill as many minions as she can as revenge.
Sorry, guys, you are too played out. Time for you to die.
They get thrown together because Elise stumbles upon information that will help thebrotherhood order figure out what the bad guys are up to. Bad guys always have nefarious schemes that include lots of paperwork and clues for the good guys to find. It's convenient, really. (ever heard of going paperless, guys?)
I like both of the main characters, and the story is still good fun. I'm looking forward to the next book.
And, have you ever noticed how wealthy vampires in all these books seem to be? They live in mansions, drive cars that cost more than my house, wear designer everything... and yet they don't have jobs. What the hell?
But, with my luck, I would end up one of those vampires from Sookie Stackhouse and get stuck living in some shitty trailer park working the night shift at Walmart.
If you don't know about Shane, the Walmart employee, you need to check it out. He's my hero!
http://www.foodbeast.com/news/this-wa...
Anyway, these vampires are the rich kind. And, they don't kill for sport. Boring!
In this book, we have Tegan, a totally badass warrior who lost his wife hundreds of years ago and is an emotionless hardened killer. He really is my favorite of all of the guys. Something about his cold, unsympathetic heart really makes me swoon.
Tegan gets involved with Elise, a lady who lost her husband and son and is on a mission to kill as many minions as she can as revenge.
Sorry, guys, you are too played out. Time for you to die.
They get thrown together because Elise stumbles upon information that will help the
I like both of the main characters, and the story is still good fun. I'm looking forward to the next book.
September 8, 2016
OH MY FREAKING GOD, I LOVED THIS BOOK! It has the perfect mix of romance, action, and the paranormal world to make this a really brilliant read for me.
Rolling orange fire silhouetted him from behind, backlighting the warrior’s broad shoulders and casual, long-legged stride. As he strolled away from the inferno, the ends of his loose black coat winged out behind him like a cape befitting the prince of darkness himself.
“Holy hell,” Brock murmured. “Tegan.”
Holy hell, Tegan, indeed!!! The third book in the Midnight Breed series gives us the story of the brutal, cold and closed off Gen-one warrior who finds his life turned upside down by Elise, introduced in the previous book when her son went missing and turned rogue. Well she’s back, and hell bent on avenging her son’s death. When Tegan discovers what she is up to, he feels strangely drawn to protect her and the two of them form an unlikely, unwanted (at least on Tegan’s part) and somewhat shocking alliance in order to uncover an age-old secret and stop the bad guy.
God, I love Tegan and Elise together! They seem to be such an unexpected pairing – the big, violent, tough guy, and the well-bred, sheltered socialite, and at the beginning of the book they seem to have a serious dislike of each other, but there is something between them that they have both felt for a while, but have ignored. With both of them struggling with grief from their pasts, things progress slowly and cautiously between them. As they both start to recognise what they are feeling, Elise opens up and follows her feelings, while Tegan tries hard to keep her at bay – aggressively at first, but it doesn’t take long for him to start to melt. Their coming together was very natural and beautifully paced, with some serious steam and gorgeous swoony moments.
“I wasn’t prepared for you, Elise. Holy hell… not even close.”
… and…
“Do I love you? Yeah, God help you, but I do”
Seeing the big, tough guy fall, and fall hard, was awesome.
“I’ll admit it to you now, and to anyone, anytime. I need you, Elise. I love you. You are mine. My woman, my mate, my beloved. My everything.”
HOLY FREAKING SWOON!
The Order has a few new recruits, including Sterling Chase, now officially on board, and we see a bit more of the Butch/Vishous relationship developing between him and Dante (OK, that’s the only BDB comparison I’m going to make – just because it’s so freaking obvious!). And we get introduced to Andreas, an old friend of Tegan’s who I note gets his own book later in the series – very exciting.
I want to give a shout out to the women in this series. They are all very strong, independent women who hook up with hugely Alpha vampires, but they still maintain an equal partnership with their guys. They’re not really a focus of the story, but as breedmates (genetically able to be mated with a vampire), they each have an individual gift that allows them to contribute to the action, and I love that they are so involved.
With a storyline that takes us from Boston to Berlin and Prague, there is lots of action and intrigue in addition to the swoony romance. There is also a nail-biting climax that had me swearing loudly and frantically flipping pages, and leaves us with a clue to where the series goes from here – and it looks really good!
This sneaky little series has taken me by surprise and firmly entrenched itself into my list of favourite PNRs. Must have more!!!
Rolling orange fire silhouetted him from behind, backlighting the warrior’s broad shoulders and casual, long-legged stride. As he strolled away from the inferno, the ends of his loose black coat winged out behind him like a cape befitting the prince of darkness himself.
“Holy hell,” Brock murmured. “Tegan.”
Holy hell, Tegan, indeed!!! The third book in the Midnight Breed series gives us the story of the brutal, cold and closed off Gen-one warrior who finds his life turned upside down by Elise, introduced in the previous book when her son went missing and turned rogue. Well she’s back, and hell bent on avenging her son’s death. When Tegan discovers what she is up to, he feels strangely drawn to protect her and the two of them form an unlikely, unwanted (at least on Tegan’s part) and somewhat shocking alliance in order to uncover an age-old secret and stop the bad guy.
God, I love Tegan and Elise together! They seem to be such an unexpected pairing – the big, violent, tough guy, and the well-bred, sheltered socialite, and at the beginning of the book they seem to have a serious dislike of each other, but there is something between them that they have both felt for a while, but have ignored. With both of them struggling with grief from their pasts, things progress slowly and cautiously between them. As they both start to recognise what they are feeling, Elise opens up and follows her feelings, while Tegan tries hard to keep her at bay – aggressively at first, but it doesn’t take long for him to start to melt. Their coming together was very natural and beautifully paced, with some serious steam and gorgeous swoony moments.
“I wasn’t prepared for you, Elise. Holy hell… not even close.”
… and…
“Do I love you? Yeah, God help you, but I do”
Seeing the big, tough guy fall, and fall hard, was awesome.
“I’ll admit it to you now, and to anyone, anytime. I need you, Elise. I love you. You are mine. My woman, my mate, my beloved. My everything.”
HOLY FREAKING SWOON!
The Order has a few new recruits, including Sterling Chase, now officially on board, and we see a bit more of the Butch/Vishous relationship developing between him and Dante (OK, that’s the only BDB comparison I’m going to make – just because it’s so freaking obvious!). And we get introduced to Andreas, an old friend of Tegan’s who I note gets his own book later in the series – very exciting.
I want to give a shout out to the women in this series. They are all very strong, independent women who hook up with hugely Alpha vampires, but they still maintain an equal partnership with their guys. They’re not really a focus of the story, but as breedmates (genetically able to be mated with a vampire), they each have an individual gift that allows them to contribute to the action, and I love that they are so involved.
With a storyline that takes us from Boston to Berlin and Prague, there is lots of action and intrigue in addition to the swoony romance. There is also a nail-biting climax that had me swearing loudly and frantically flipping pages, and leaves us with a clue to where the series goes from here – and it looks really good!
This sneaky little series has taken me by surprise and firmly entrenched itself into my list of favourite PNRs. Must have more!!!
July 6, 2025
Midnight Awakening by Lara Adrian
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
5 solid stars
Can't think of anything to change from my previous review.
Although I think I enjoyed reading it even more this time around.
Review from March 2016
6 No 7 STARS!!
Exquisitely well written. Be prepared, because you will not be able to stop reading. I find it amazing that each book in this series gets better than the one before it. You will feel completely connected to Tegan and Elise. The world building of The Midnight Breed advances in its complexity, all the characters development increase in growth. The 'Order' takes on new recruits improving their numbers to fight the Rogues, the suspense and danger accelerates and intensifies. The Non-stop action will keep you reading till your eyes go bleary and roll up into your head. I am tingling with anticipation for what Book #4 has in store.
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
5 solid stars
Can't think of anything to change from my previous review.
Although I think I enjoyed reading it even more this time around.
Review from March 2016
6 No 7 STARS!!
Exquisitely well written. Be prepared, because you will not be able to stop reading. I find it amazing that each book in this series gets better than the one before it. You will feel completely connected to Tegan and Elise. The world building of The Midnight Breed advances in its complexity, all the characters development increase in growth. The 'Order' takes on new recruits improving their numbers to fight the Rogues, the suspense and danger accelerates and intensifies. The Non-stop action will keep you reading till your eyes go bleary and roll up into your head. I am tingling with anticipation for what Book #4 has in store.
August 16, 2009
This is one of those reviews where I have to eat my words. I have to say that I really grew to like Elise. I didn't think I would care for her as a heroine after the last book in the series, Kiss of Crimson. But I found that I liked and respected her. She has lost a lot, but rose like a phoenix from the ashes. She made herself strong, even though she was raised like a delicate flower in the Chase family, told what to think, how to act, and what she should do with her life.
Elise suffers terribly when she is around humans, because her inborn psychic ability makes her hear their most violent, ugly, and dark thoughts. Despite this, she goes out to hunt and kill Minions, which are the souless humans that have almost been bled dry by the vampires who have given themselves over to Bloodlust, called Rogues. Some might view this behavior as TSTL, but I felt that a woman who lost her son to the evils of vampires and their minions would want to wreak vengeance on her enemies. So she didn't come off that way to me.
I liked Tegan a lot. I hate to compare books, but I must say that I don't connect with him as a tortured hero as intensely that I have with some of the other heroes in various other paranormal series that I have read and loved. Having said that, he definitely held his own in this book as a formidable warrior with a tortured past, but capable of complete tenderness and gentleness with Elise. I think that is what made me like him, was the way the took care of Elise, and showed her respect. He did tell her she was risking her life, and had some things to say about that in a very non-political way, but I think he showed respect for her need to do something in the war against the rogue vampires. I also loved that he was celibate for several centuries after the loss of his breedmate. That's devotion! I read one book where a hero who was supposed to be so in love with his lost love that he couldn't even wait less than five years before sleeping with some other women.
I was curious why Ms. Adrian paired Tegan with Elise before I read this book, but it totally made sense when I read it. On the surface, they seem different, as Elise is a pampered, delicate Breedmate who is a society maven in the Darkhaven (communities in which the vampire civilians and their breedmates live), and Tegan is a fierce, rough warrior, seen as a conscienceless killer by many. Yet they have a connection and can understand each other because of the losses they have suffered and how those losses changed their lives and their personalities. There is a strong bond between Tegan and Elise that is emotional and sexual, that Ms. Adrian does a great job of building on. I liked that there wasn't the instant sex scene, but the tension builds between them until it explodes like C-4 in the love scenes that occur later in the book.
I feel this series is building very well. It has an interesting world, but, I admit I like a paranormal romance with more creatures in it a little more. This one just has the offspring of the alien vampires that came to earth millenia ago, went on a bloodthirsty rampage, and sired offspring on human women. Having said that, I think Ms. Adrian really does a good job with this storyline and reveals more layers with each book.
The battles in this book are intense and violent. There is always the chance that these warriors could die or get wounded. The stakes are very high and you hold your breath waiting to see what's going to happen next. The villain Marek is a completely despicable, morally bankrupt piece of work, and you want him taken down by the Breed.
This book kind of wraps up one storyline but leaves things open for the start of another one. I definitely need to keep reading to see what's going to happen after this book. Also because I am intrigued with the characters of Rio, Andreas Richen, Sterling Chase, Niko, and the new recruit brethren Kade and Brock, and I want to see who they get paired up with.
Another plus of this series is that there is some ethnic diversity. This is another big reason I keep reading these books. I will get off my soapbox in a moment. I promise. I just have to say it's nice to see people of different ethnicities in the paranormal romances. Just saying. (Climbing off the soapbox now).
If you are looking to read a well-written book with formidable warriors, intense action, and a great romance, and you're a fan of vampires, I'd recommend the Midnight Breed series to add to your to be read pile.
Elise suffers terribly when she is around humans, because her inborn psychic ability makes her hear their most violent, ugly, and dark thoughts. Despite this, she goes out to hunt and kill Minions, which are the souless humans that have almost been bled dry by the vampires who have given themselves over to Bloodlust, called Rogues. Some might view this behavior as TSTL, but I felt that a woman who lost her son to the evils of vampires and their minions would want to wreak vengeance on her enemies. So she didn't come off that way to me.
I liked Tegan a lot. I hate to compare books, but I must say that I don't connect with him as a tortured hero as intensely that I have with some of the other heroes in various other paranormal series that I have read and loved. Having said that, he definitely held his own in this book as a formidable warrior with a tortured past, but capable of complete tenderness and gentleness with Elise. I think that is what made me like him, was the way the took care of Elise, and showed her respect. He did tell her she was risking her life, and had some things to say about that in a very non-political way, but I think he showed respect for her need to do something in the war against the rogue vampires. I also loved that he was celibate for several centuries after the loss of his breedmate. That's devotion! I read one book where a hero who was supposed to be so in love with his lost love that he couldn't even wait less than five years before sleeping with some other women.
I was curious why Ms. Adrian paired Tegan with Elise before I read this book, but it totally made sense when I read it. On the surface, they seem different, as Elise is a pampered, delicate Breedmate who is a society maven in the Darkhaven (communities in which the vampire civilians and their breedmates live), and Tegan is a fierce, rough warrior, seen as a conscienceless killer by many. Yet they have a connection and can understand each other because of the losses they have suffered and how those losses changed their lives and their personalities. There is a strong bond between Tegan and Elise that is emotional and sexual, that Ms. Adrian does a great job of building on. I liked that there wasn't the instant sex scene, but the tension builds between them until it explodes like C-4 in the love scenes that occur later in the book.
I feel this series is building very well. It has an interesting world, but, I admit I like a paranormal romance with more creatures in it a little more. This one just has the offspring of the alien vampires that came to earth millenia ago, went on a bloodthirsty rampage, and sired offspring on human women. Having said that, I think Ms. Adrian really does a good job with this storyline and reveals more layers with each book.
The battles in this book are intense and violent. There is always the chance that these warriors could die or get wounded. The stakes are very high and you hold your breath waiting to see what's going to happen next. The villain Marek is a completely despicable, morally bankrupt piece of work, and you want him taken down by the Breed.
This book kind of wraps up one storyline but leaves things open for the start of another one. I definitely need to keep reading to see what's going to happen after this book. Also because I am intrigued with the characters of Rio, Andreas Richen, Sterling Chase, Niko, and the new recruit brethren Kade and Brock, and I want to see who they get paired up with.
Another plus of this series is that there is some ethnic diversity. This is another big reason I keep reading these books. I will get off my soapbox in a moment. I promise. I just have to say it's nice to see people of different ethnicities in the paranormal romances. Just saying. (Climbing off the soapbox now).
If you are looking to read a well-written book with formidable warriors, intense action, and a great romance, and you're a fan of vampires, I'd recommend the Midnight Breed series to add to your to be read pile.
January 28, 2011
Wow.....just WOW!
Until now, if anyone asked, I would have said that Lara Adrien's Midnight Breed series was good but not great. I would've said that it paled in comparison to Ward's BDB. I would've said that it wasn't anything really special. Now, I stand corrected. Midnight Awakening was something really special and I couldn't put it down!
What made this book different from the previous two was the incredible off the charts chemistry between Tegan and Elise. The previous books waited too long to develop the chemistry between the leads and I felt very disconnected to the characters. Not so with these two!
I wasn't a fan of Elise in the previous book, but I definitely became a huge fan from the first chapter of this book. She was an incredible character. Fierce, determined, tough, honest, and committed to all the men in her life (past and present!). I loved how she was portrayed and was cheering for her from the first page on.
Although I became a fan of Elise....I fell in love with the character of Tegan. He hit all my "soft spots" and all my "hot spots"! I loved that he was such a loner and so removed from all connection with others, and how that gradually started to change as his love for Elise grew and grew. I loved his ruthlessness. I loved his tenderness. I loved his intensity. Everything about him...worked for me. I guess I can safely add him to the list of fictional characters that I wish were real!
This is a very violent series and the war is not over. Many new characters are being introduced and I can't wait for Rio's story. This book is a keeper and is my favorite of the series...by far!
Until now, if anyone asked, I would have said that Lara Adrien's Midnight Breed series was good but not great. I would've said that it paled in comparison to Ward's BDB. I would've said that it wasn't anything really special. Now, I stand corrected. Midnight Awakening was something really special and I couldn't put it down!
What made this book different from the previous two was the incredible off the charts chemistry between Tegan and Elise. The previous books waited too long to develop the chemistry between the leads and I felt very disconnected to the characters. Not so with these two!
I wasn't a fan of Elise in the previous book, but I definitely became a huge fan from the first chapter of this book. She was an incredible character. Fierce, determined, tough, honest, and committed to all the men in her life (past and present!). I loved how she was portrayed and was cheering for her from the first page on.
Although I became a fan of Elise....I fell in love with the character of Tegan. He hit all my "soft spots" and all my "hot spots"! I loved that he was such a loner and so removed from all connection with others, and how that gradually started to change as his love for Elise grew and grew. I loved his ruthlessness. I loved his tenderness. I loved his intensity. Everything about him...worked for me. I guess I can safely add him to the list of fictional characters that I wish were real!
This is a very violent series and the war is not over. Many new characters are being introduced and I can't wait for Rio's story. This book is a keeper and is my favorite of the series...by far!
March 29, 2018
3 3/4 "For the action!" Stars!
Slightly spoilerish...
But! Overall, I still liked this one. I am all in for this series. A few more new characters were introduced. I can see a truly challenging adversary ahead. Can't wait for the next book! Happy reading!!
Slightly spoilerish...
But! Overall, I still liked this one. I am all in for this series. A few more new characters were introduced. I can see a truly challenging adversary ahead. Can't wait for the next book! Happy reading!!
October 13, 2019
3 sobering ★★★✩✩
⤐ Overall.
I've read this book many times and even though I totally love this series, I have one recurring thought every single time I read this book: a painful past does. not. justify. [claps her hands] harmful. [claps her hands] behaviour. in the present.
This book is for you if… you are in search for an overly unrealistic love story with a frighteningly good depiction of an alternate reality with an apocalyptic mood that features an alien version of vampires.
⤐ Overall.
I've read this book many times and even though I totally love this series, I have one recurring thought every single time I read this book: a painful past does. not. justify. [claps her hands] harmful. [claps her hands] behaviour. in the present.
April 20, 2017
Tegan je zaista najupečatljiviji muški lik ovog serijala. ♥
September 14, 2019
I read the first two book in this series about a year ago, and then I picked back up with this one for a BR --- and I'm glad I did!
Elise is the widow of an influential Darkhaven/Enforcement Agency male who died 5 years ago; to make matters worse, her son Camden was turned Rogue ("bad vamp") by the drug (crimson) that has been circulated among the young vampire community for nefarious purposes; when he turned on his mother 4 months ago, his uncle was forced to kill him. Since then, Elise has made it her mission to destroy the Rogues responsible for the distribution of the deadly drug. Though she is no match for a Rogue, she can definitely handle a minion (humans who are under the control of a rogue vampire), so she stalks them and cuts them down headless of her own safety and sanity. Elise has the ability to hear others' thoughts, and when she ventures out to pursue evil ones, she is not only in danger from them, she is also overwhelmed by the volume of thoughts that run through her head nonstop. Even though she is determined to carry out her mission, it takes a significant toll on her to the extent that she is often completely catatonic upon her return to the sketchy apartment complex where she currently resides among the human populous.
Tegan is one of the very few remaining first gen members of the Order that is tasked with patrolling and ridding the world of the Rogue vampires. A first gen is the product of the first vampires who arrived on earth hundreds of years ago (they are technically aliens) and a human; the first gens once sought to rid the world of their sires as they realized how deadly and destructive they were. In those battles, many of the sons of the original vamps were killed; and subsequently, others have died over the centuries or been lost as Rogues, but Tegan has persevered despite the loss of his Breedmate 500 years ago -- a loss he considers himself responsible for. As such, Tegan is a loner when he fights as well as when he feeds (never from females); and he is one of the most lethal members of the Order. He has locked away his feelings and focuses only on his missions... until he encounters Elise on a mission of her own. Once he learns that she is putting herself in danger, he is determined to protect her.
As Tegan's and Elise's very different worlds collide, they are forced together in an effort to determine what their nemesis is hiding. Can they work together in harmony? What will happen when they are forced to confront their overwhelming attraction to one another? Will either ever allow any one else into his/her heart? And will any of it matter if a villain capable of wiping out the Order and the Blackhaven rises?
What I liked:
--- Fast-moving plot with solid action and mystery/suspense
--- The h was equal parts strong and feminine, and the H was the strong, silent, high-testosterone level male that makes me lick my lips!
--- Steamy goodness!
What I didn't like as much:
--- Without giving away any spoilers, the ending was both satisfying and unsatisfying... And anti-climactic with respect to one of the villains
--- I felt like the author could have laid a little more groundwork for the next book in the installment --- I don't feel like I know as much about the H and h in that one bc the characters weren't very involved in this one
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- some but not too graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Elise is the widow of an influential Darkhaven/Enforcement Agency male who died 5 years ago; to make matters worse, her son Camden was turned Rogue ("bad vamp") by the drug (crimson) that has been circulated among the young vampire community for nefarious purposes; when he turned on his mother 4 months ago, his uncle was forced to kill him. Since then, Elise has made it her mission to destroy the Rogues responsible for the distribution of the deadly drug. Though she is no match for a Rogue, she can definitely handle a minion (humans who are under the control of a rogue vampire), so she stalks them and cuts them down headless of her own safety and sanity. Elise has the ability to hear others' thoughts, and when she ventures out to pursue evil ones, she is not only in danger from them, she is also overwhelmed by the volume of thoughts that run through her head nonstop. Even though she is determined to carry out her mission, it takes a significant toll on her to the extent that she is often completely catatonic upon her return to the sketchy apartment complex where she currently resides among the human populous.
Tegan is one of the very few remaining first gen members of the Order that is tasked with patrolling and ridding the world of the Rogue vampires. A first gen is the product of the first vampires who arrived on earth hundreds of years ago (they are technically aliens) and a human; the first gens once sought to rid the world of their sires as they realized how deadly and destructive they were. In those battles, many of the sons of the original vamps were killed; and subsequently, others have died over the centuries or been lost as Rogues, but Tegan has persevered despite the loss of his Breedmate 500 years ago -- a loss he considers himself responsible for. As such, Tegan is a loner when he fights as well as when he feeds (never from females); and he is one of the most lethal members of the Order. He has locked away his feelings and focuses only on his missions... until he encounters Elise on a mission of her own. Once he learns that she is putting herself in danger, he is determined to protect her.
As Tegan's and Elise's very different worlds collide, they are forced together in an effort to determine what their nemesis is hiding. Can they work together in harmony? What will happen when they are forced to confront their overwhelming attraction to one another? Will either ever allow any one else into his/her heart? And will any of it matter if a villain capable of wiping out the Order and the Blackhaven rises?
What I liked:
--- Fast-moving plot with solid action and mystery/suspense
--- The h was equal parts strong and feminine, and the H was the strong, silent, high-testosterone level male that makes me lick my lips!
--- Steamy goodness!
What I didn't like as much:
--- Without giving away any spoilers, the ending was both satisfying and unsatisfying... And anti-climactic with respect to one of the villains
--- I felt like the author could have laid a little more groundwork for the next book in the installment --- I don't feel like I know as much about the H and h in that one bc the characters weren't very involved in this one
Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- some but not too graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
April 17, 2012
After my disappointment with the last book I read in Adrain's Breedmate series, I wasn't sure if I wanted to go on. However, Tegan's character intrigued me from the get go so I couldn't let his book go unread.
Elise Chase suffered remarkable loss in recent years. The loss of her beloved mate hurt her tremendously- but it was the loss of their son that devastated her. Determined to avenge his death, she transforms herself from a sheltered aristocrat to an emotionless hunter who will stop at nothing to see the Breed responsible for killing her son dead - even if it means destroying her sanity to do so.
Tegan knows deep loss as well and something about Elise pulls at his heart- a heart he thought long dead. When he finds her laid low from her debilitating gift he decides to give her a hand in controlling it.
Meanwhile, passion stirs between them and though she awakens something in him, he tries to stay far from it- and her. Until they are both drawn into a web of intrigue that leads them to the other side of the world and to the very center of the struggle between the rogue vampires out to destroy humankind and the group of warriors who have given their lives to stop them.
Something dark and sinister is arising and its far worse than the evil Breed they once considered their arch-nemesis.
Tegan is the kind of sexy brooding hero that we've come to love in paranormal romance, and Elise's transformation makes this novel a winner. They're coming together is passionate and steamy but I think I enjoyed the intrigue just as much in this one!
Although still not as favored as some of the other paranormal romance series out there- I enjoyed Midnight Awakening and am now anxious to get to the rest of the series!
Elise Chase suffered remarkable loss in recent years. The loss of her beloved mate hurt her tremendously- but it was the loss of their son that devastated her. Determined to avenge his death, she transforms herself from a sheltered aristocrat to an emotionless hunter who will stop at nothing to see the Breed responsible for killing her son dead - even if it means destroying her sanity to do so.
Tegan knows deep loss as well and something about Elise pulls at his heart- a heart he thought long dead. When he finds her laid low from her debilitating gift he decides to give her a hand in controlling it.
Meanwhile, passion stirs between them and though she awakens something in him, he tries to stay far from it- and her. Until they are both drawn into a web of intrigue that leads them to the other side of the world and to the very center of the struggle between the rogue vampires out to destroy humankind and the group of warriors who have given their lives to stop them.
Something dark and sinister is arising and its far worse than the evil Breed they once considered their arch-nemesis.
Tegan is the kind of sexy brooding hero that we've come to love in paranormal romance, and Elise's transformation makes this novel a winner. They're coming together is passionate and steamy but I think I enjoyed the intrigue just as much in this one!
Although still not as favored as some of the other paranormal romance series out there- I enjoyed Midnight Awakening and am now anxious to get to the rest of the series!
March 12, 2017
I could have enjoyed this book. A lot. But I had struggles with connecting with the characters, specially Elise Chase (how old is she?). Though she was cool, stubborn, naive and loyal, I still felt like I was on the outside looking in when it comes it Elise. Still not over the fact that she has the same as me.
Breed warrior Tegan (more than seven centuries of existence) was sexy, cold, crude and a killer machine. I like that, though even with him, I felt on the outside. Also, I had that insane feeling of insta-love. I mean, sure, they met a few months back, but didn't know each other personally, but when they finally do get...personal (?), it only lasted like a couple of days, or a week before I love you entered the picture. Overall, this book reminded me of Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward, still good, but not good enough for me, unfortunately.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book Three
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Tegan
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
He was the ghost you never saw coming, death breathing down your neck before you even realized you were in the crosshairs.
Breed warrior Tegan (more than seven centuries of existence) was sexy, cold, crude and a killer machine. I like that, though even with him, I felt on the outside. Also, I had that insane feeling of insta-love. I mean, sure, they met a few months back, but didn't know each other personally, but when they finally do get...personal (?), it only lasted like a couple of days, or a week before I love you entered the picture. Overall, this book reminded me of Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward, still good, but not good enough for me, unfortunately.
“I wasn’t prepared for you, Elise. Holy hell…not even close.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book Three
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Tegan
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
November 28, 2010
Quick Take: Loved it! My fave so far. The two leads were a great and compelling match. I'd recommend having read book two before jumping into the series with this book.
I'm glad to note that thus far, I've enjoyed each Midnight Breed book more than the last. Granted, I've only finished three installments now, but the direction of the trend is a very promising one. In this story we're treated to a closer look at Tegan, the most closed and inaccessible of the Breed warriors. Up to now he's seemed stone-cold and emotionless, observations that are only solidified by the fact that his emotion-affected dermaglyphs--tattoo-like markings that the Breed are born with--are always at an innocuous, neutral shade.
I for one didn't think much of Tegan in the first two books. It seemed almost as though he was intentionally painted into the proverbial wordwork. ^_^ I was pleased that his core-personality does not change, but that greater understanding of his motivations was gained. His nominal pairing with Elise didn't seem to make sense before I picked up this book, but I was made a believer by the end, that's for sure. He's now my favorite of the Order warriors.
The plot moved at a wonderfully steady-yet-engaging pace, and I went through the whole book eager to read what was to follow. The romance is admittedly slow-going, but I felt it was actually better that way, as the characters' (considerable) emotional turmoil was given fair treatment. The entire "regular" cast was involved in the main plot line in some way, though the narrative perspective stayed mostly with the two leads. It worked out well, and I felt like I was getting the best of both worlds: an intimate glimpse at Tegan and Elise as they slowly came together, and meaningful portrayals of the other members of the Order. Not to mention a broadened scope of the overall series. I dug it all. ^_^
Now, this book can technically be read stand-alone with minimal confusion. But I would highly recommend that newcomers read book two (Kiss of Crimson) before jumping into this book. Doing so will provide greater context and a deeper emotional understanding of the heroine, Elise Chase.
This book only further solidifies my affinity for this series. I see that Rio is up next as lead hero, and I couldn't be more excited. Yay, Breed!
I'm glad to note that thus far, I've enjoyed each Midnight Breed book more than the last. Granted, I've only finished three installments now, but the direction of the trend is a very promising one. In this story we're treated to a closer look at Tegan, the most closed and inaccessible of the Breed warriors. Up to now he's seemed stone-cold and emotionless, observations that are only solidified by the fact that his emotion-affected dermaglyphs--tattoo-like markings that the Breed are born with--are always at an innocuous, neutral shade.
I for one didn't think much of Tegan in the first two books. It seemed almost as though he was intentionally painted into the proverbial wordwork. ^_^ I was pleased that his core-personality does not change, but that greater understanding of his motivations was gained. His nominal pairing with Elise didn't seem to make sense before I picked up this book, but I was made a believer by the end, that's for sure. He's now my favorite of the Order warriors.
The plot moved at a wonderfully steady-yet-engaging pace, and I went through the whole book eager to read what was to follow. The romance is admittedly slow-going, but I felt it was actually better that way, as the characters' (considerable) emotional turmoil was given fair treatment. The entire "regular" cast was involved in the main plot line in some way, though the narrative perspective stayed mostly with the two leads. It worked out well, and I felt like I was getting the best of both worlds: an intimate glimpse at Tegan and Elise as they slowly came together, and meaningful portrayals of the other members of the Order. Not to mention a broadened scope of the overall series. I dug it all. ^_^
Now, this book can technically be read stand-alone with minimal confusion. But I would highly recommend that newcomers read book two (Kiss of Crimson) before jumping into this book. Doing so will provide greater context and a deeper emotional understanding of the heroine, Elise Chase.
This book only further solidifies my affinity for this series. I see that Rio is up next as lead hero, and I couldn't be more excited. Yay, Breed!
August 26, 2010
Audiobook.
2.5 stars.
Apart from the beginning and the very end, this book bored me and left me frustrated. The author’s style does not suit me. She is quite wordy and uses a lot of narrative. I wanted more dialogue and more action. The author also spent too much time on past protagonist pair-ups. I did not need the level of detail she gave on how they got together. It would’ve been sufficient to say "this is what’s his name and what’s his name’s girlfriend with X superpower."
I never connected with either Teegan or Elise and felt their romance was weak. It was a lot of tell with only one or two scenes of show. Teegan spent a lot of time being a d-bag toward Elise so of course she decides she loves him. I have no idea what they see in each other. Teegan was very emo and I did not feel any depth from him like I do with my favorite loner/tortured heroes. I had high hopes for Elise in the beginning. She started out seeking vengeance for her son and taking down bad guys but that plot gets derailed and the focus turns to some guy in a psycho ward.
I thought the book was okay until the characters went to Germany and then it got incredibly tedious. I’m not sure why the author bothered to set part of the book there since she used none of the culture. The way it reads it could have been set in any city anywhere because there were no details. This part of the plot was excessively drawn out. I wish there had been tighter focus on the relationship or more detailed action.
The bad guy’s denouement was a bit abrupt. After all the build-up I was expecting more than a quick finish.
2.5 stars.
Apart from the beginning and the very end, this book bored me and left me frustrated. The author’s style does not suit me. She is quite wordy and uses a lot of narrative. I wanted more dialogue and more action. The author also spent too much time on past protagonist pair-ups. I did not need the level of detail she gave on how they got together. It would’ve been sufficient to say "this is what’s his name and what’s his name’s girlfriend with X superpower."
I never connected with either Teegan or Elise and felt their romance was weak. It was a lot of tell with only one or two scenes of show. Teegan spent a lot of time being a d-bag toward Elise so of course she decides she loves him. I have no idea what they see in each other. Teegan was very emo and I did not feel any depth from him like I do with my favorite loner/tortured heroes. I had high hopes for Elise in the beginning. She started out seeking vengeance for her son and taking down bad guys but that plot gets derailed and the focus turns to some guy in a psycho ward.
I thought the book was okay until the characters went to Germany and then it got incredibly tedious. I’m not sure why the author bothered to set part of the book there since she used none of the culture. The way it reads it could have been set in any city anywhere because there were no details. This part of the plot was excessively drawn out. I wish there had been tighter focus on the relationship or more detailed action.
The bad guy’s denouement was a bit abrupt. After all the build-up I was expecting more than a quick finish.
October 13, 2010
Each book of the Midnight Breed series gets exponentially better than the one before it. I found that Dante and Tess were a perfect pair in Kiss of Crimson, but Tegan and Elise have just topped them in my eyes.
I’m always drawn to the guys who are cold-hearted and loners and perhaps that’s why Tegan caught my eye from the very beginning. There’s something so raw and powerful about him that you wish you can get close enough to get to know him. But that’s the thing with these types of characters. They never let you in.
And Elise knows this first hand. As the Darkhaven beauty, she is sheltered from the real world. I will admit, I didn’t care much about her before but I found that she started to come to life once Camden, her son died. As weird as that sounds, I think his death was the catalyst that brought her out of her mate’s mourning and gave her a purpose in life. Albeit a dark and revengeful kind.
With Tegan so callous and unemotional and Elise as broken and angry as she is, you wouldn’t think there would be that much passion in Midnight Awakening, but boy was I wrong. In Elise’s presence, Tegan sparks to life and the chemistry between the two is explosive from the start.
Adrian takes the Breed series to another level with Midnight Awakening. The slightly less than perfect rating I gave Kiss of Crimson and Kiss of Midnight was due largely to the lack of humour and easy banter between the warriors and their Breedmates that I find to be so endearing in characters of other books. I may not have gotten it in the first two books, but it’s definitely there now!
5 stars!I think I've just found my new favourite author!
I’m always drawn to the guys who are cold-hearted and loners and perhaps that’s why Tegan caught my eye from the very beginning. There’s something so raw and powerful about him that you wish you can get close enough to get to know him. But that’s the thing with these types of characters. They never let you in.
And Elise knows this first hand. As the Darkhaven beauty, she is sheltered from the real world. I will admit, I didn’t care much about her before but I found that she started to come to life once Camden, her son died. As weird as that sounds, I think his death was the catalyst that brought her out of her mate’s mourning and gave her a purpose in life. Albeit a dark and revengeful kind.
With Tegan so callous and unemotional and Elise as broken and angry as she is, you wouldn’t think there would be that much passion in Midnight Awakening, but boy was I wrong. In Elise’s presence, Tegan sparks to life and the chemistry between the two is explosive from the start.
Adrian takes the Breed series to another level with Midnight Awakening. The slightly less than perfect rating I gave Kiss of Crimson and Kiss of Midnight was due largely to the lack of humour and easy banter between the warriors and their Breedmates that I find to be so endearing in characters of other books. I may not have gotten it in the first two books, but it’s definitely there now!
5 stars!I think I've just found my new favourite author!
September 1, 2016
Breed warrior Tegan
Special ability: Gen one warrior, Second in command,
Senses truth and emotions through touch
Age: 700 years old
Breed mate Elise
Special ability: Hearing ugly thoughts of Rogues, Minios, Humans
Occupation: Darkhaven resident for more than 100 years. No occupation obtained.
Mark place: Right thigh, inner side.
Settings: Boston, Berlin, Prague
Tegan had a devastating loss centuries ago. His wife turned into minion and she was killed. Elise had a devastating loss recently. Her son was killed from Crimson drug. These two sad souls will find a common ground and they will try to be together.
To be honest Elise did not really convince me at the beginning as Tegan mate. I did not expect it and I was not exactly happy for it. Firstly, because of her Chase lost his job and changed his life while he was secretly in love with her. Thus, I expected them to end up together. Secondly she seemed a bit weak heroine for someone like Tegan. I wanted something more for him.
Anyway, I somehow was a little more convinced in the end for her suitability but I still consider her the weakest breedmate of the series.
Special ability: Gen one warrior, Second in command,
Senses truth and emotions through touch
Age: 700 years old
Breed mate Elise
Special ability: Hearing ugly thoughts of Rogues, Minios, Humans
Occupation: Darkhaven resident for more than 100 years. No occupation obtained.
Mark place: Right thigh, inner side.
Settings: Boston, Berlin, Prague
Tegan had a devastating loss centuries ago. His wife turned into minion and she was killed. Elise had a devastating loss recently. Her son was killed from Crimson drug. These two sad souls will find a common ground and they will try to be together.
To be honest Elise did not really convince me at the beginning as Tegan mate. I did not expect it and I was not exactly happy for it. Firstly, because of her Chase lost his job and changed his life while he was secretly in love with her. Thus, I expected them to end up together. Secondly she seemed a bit weak heroine for someone like Tegan. I wanted something more for him.
Anyway, I somehow was a little more convinced in the end for her suitability but I still consider her the weakest breedmate of the series.
March 7, 2017
Cada libro que voy leyendo de esta saga me va gustando más, me ha tenido enganchanda y me ha quedado con ganas de más.
February 26, 2009
5 stars - Vampire Romance
Midnight Awakening focuses on the unlikely relationship that develops between brooding Breed warrior Tegan and Darkhaven widow Elise. Tegan is dark, volatile, solitary, sexy, and surprisingly tender. This is probably the steamiest book in the series due to the great chemistry and sexual tension between Tegan and Elise. I loved this book! The Midnight Breed series rocks!
Midnight Awakening focuses on the unlikely relationship that develops between brooding Breed warrior Tegan and Darkhaven widow Elise. Tegan is dark, volatile, solitary, sexy, and surprisingly tender. This is probably the steamiest book in the series due to the great chemistry and sexual tension between Tegan and Elise. I loved this book! The Midnight Breed series rocks!
September 8, 2019
First read Jan 31, 2015
Second read October 2015
Third read September 2019
Second read October 2015
Third read September 2019
September 19, 2015
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Elise Chase has left dark haven, the only home she has ever known to get justice for the death of her son. She has trained herself to fight and hunts down rogues in the city. She is on a mission and nothing is going to change her mind. When she stumbles on a minion and kills him, she is drawn into a danger she didn't see coming and then Tegan rescues her. Tegan is shocked to see Elise fighting or living in a run down apartment when she could have the safety of Darkhaven. Tegan understands the pain and the need for revenge, but he also understands how to stay alive. Elise has a powerful ability, an ability that is crippling her in certain ways. She joins forces with the intense Tegan, in order to stay alive, but also to get to the bottom of what the Rogue leader is really after. They stumble across a certain book, which contains certain clues that lead them to Europe and their allies there. Elise and Tegan will discover a secret, a secret that has been kept for centuries, and one that could destroy them. Soon Tegan and Elise not only discover a danger to their kind, but also a passion and a mating they didn't see coming.
The Hero
Tegan is a Breed warrior, and one of the most powerful of their kind. He understands pain and loss. He once lost his breedmate and still suffers from the pain of that loss despite the amount of years that have passed since. He was betrayed and lost everything he held most dear. Now he has trained hard and is one of the most toughest and fierce of the warriors that fight the rogues.
He hasn't made that many friends, he is brutal at times but is tough. What I found I most loved about Tegan is the hidden qualities that rise to the surface. At first he has quite a tough shell, a shell he has created to protect himself from getting hurt. A shell that most see as cold and unfeeling, but Tegan burns with quite a bit of emotion which he keeps under lock and key. Tegan has that "Tortured Hero" feel to him that is quite heartbreaking, but I loved seeing him shine at different points in the story.
The Heroine
Elise has been suffering and is grief stricken. Elise lost her mate years previous, and then her son got hooked on a dangerous drug that turned him into a rogue. Her son was killed right in front of her when he tried to kill her. Ever since that fateful night, she was changed forever. She left the only home she had ever known, Darkhaven, and left for the city where the rogues lay. She trained herself to fight and to kill minions. Elise has a gift, but her gift can be crippling to her. She hears all the negative thoughts that surround her. What was most likable about Elise was her personality. She has always been reserved but kind and loving. But we see a change in her, where pain and grief have altered her a bit. She has become more tough and resilient, and I quite adored this side of her. Even though there are times she makes mistakes, these are quite human like and very easy to relate to.
Plot and Storyline
Midnight Awakening continues a bit after the second book ends. When I first started reading, I couldn't believe our heroine...Elise was the same as the character in the second book. They seemed so different from each other, but we see so much more to Elise. We see her strength and her courage and her ability to adapt to a new circumstance and how she deals with her grief. I really felt for her character, because she has lost both her mate and her son. That was quite heartbreaking, to see her working alone and killing minions and trying to get justice for what was done to her son. And in the beginning, when Tegan and Elise first interact with each other, I was a bit apprehensive. I couldn't see how these two would work and fit as mates. They seemed so different from each other. At first, they really are at odds with one another and hurt each other even without fully meaning to. But as they begin to work hand in hand more, they begin to mold a bit more and soften with each stage of the story. What was most interesting was how their relationship builds. It is different than the previous two books and I liked that. Seeing something, a bit different and unique develop. Both characters are tough in different ways and it was quite fun to see how they meshed together and created a wonderful harmony in their personalities. Midnight Awakening has a bit more of a "mystery" tone to the story. It does have some action too, but the major drive of this book is the mystery and trying to figure out what the leader of the rogues has up his sleeve, and Tegan and Elise are the keys to finding out what is really going on. We also see some of our other favorite characters, including poor Rio who is still recovering from his injuries. Now I want to talk about the actual romance a bit. They have quite the bantering going on...heated and intense. The sexual chemistry is blazing, they definitely have that going for them. What was most unique about their story was how they complimented each other so well....both physically and emotionally. I really loved the balance that develops between them. There were some intense moments but also some tender and romantic ones that will have you grabbing for your box of tissues.
But his book is next so I CANT wait. We also see a growth in certain character and I loved the depth in this book that kept me hooked. Love the style of Lara Adrian and with each book, I get more caught up in the world building.
The Cover
I quite love this cover. I love the blue and purple tones and the European street feel to the cover. Love how it relates with the story.
Overall View
Midnight Awakening was a brilliantly crafted romance that takes us across oceans riddled with mystery, suspense and desire....this book has everything that you need in a provoking vampire romance!! Lara Adrian at her best with this one.
Summary
Elise Chase has left dark haven, the only home she has ever known to get justice for the death of her son. She has trained herself to fight and hunts down rogues in the city. She is on a mission and nothing is going to change her mind. When she stumbles on a minion and kills him, she is drawn into a danger she didn't see coming and then Tegan rescues her. Tegan is shocked to see Elise fighting or living in a run down apartment when she could have the safety of Darkhaven. Tegan understands the pain and the need for revenge, but he also understands how to stay alive. Elise has a powerful ability, an ability that is crippling her in certain ways. She joins forces with the intense Tegan, in order to stay alive, but also to get to the bottom of what the Rogue leader is really after. They stumble across a certain book, which contains certain clues that lead them to Europe and their allies there. Elise and Tegan will discover a secret, a secret that has been kept for centuries, and one that could destroy them. Soon Tegan and Elise not only discover a danger to their kind, but also a passion and a mating they didn't see coming.
The Hero
Tegan is a Breed warrior, and one of the most powerful of their kind. He understands pain and loss. He once lost his breedmate and still suffers from the pain of that loss despite the amount of years that have passed since. He was betrayed and lost everything he held most dear. Now he has trained hard and is one of the most toughest and fierce of the warriors that fight the rogues.
He was the ghost you never saw coming, death breathing down your neck before you even realized you were in the crosshairs.
He hasn't made that many friends, he is brutal at times but is tough. What I found I most loved about Tegan is the hidden qualities that rise to the surface. At first he has quite a tough shell, a shell he has created to protect himself from getting hurt. A shell that most see as cold and unfeeling, but Tegan burns with quite a bit of emotion which he keeps under lock and key. Tegan has that "Tortured Hero" feel to him that is quite heartbreaking, but I loved seeing him shine at different points in the story.
The Heroine
Elise has been suffering and is grief stricken. Elise lost her mate years previous, and then her son got hooked on a dangerous drug that turned him into a rogue. Her son was killed right in front of her when he tried to kill her. Ever since that fateful night, she was changed forever. She left the only home she had ever known, Darkhaven, and left for the city where the rogues lay. She trained herself to fight and to kill minions. Elise has a gift, but her gift can be crippling to her. She hears all the negative thoughts that surround her. What was most likable about Elise was her personality. She has always been reserved but kind and loving. But we see a change in her, where pain and grief have altered her a bit. She has become more tough and resilient, and I quite adored this side of her. Even though there are times she makes mistakes, these are quite human like and very easy to relate to.
Plot and Storyline
Midnight Awakening continues a bit after the second book ends. When I first started reading, I couldn't believe our heroine...Elise was the same as the character in the second book. They seemed so different from each other, but we see so much more to Elise. We see her strength and her courage and her ability to adapt to a new circumstance and how she deals with her grief. I really felt for her character, because she has lost both her mate and her son. That was quite heartbreaking, to see her working alone and killing minions and trying to get justice for what was done to her son. And in the beginning, when Tegan and Elise first interact with each other, I was a bit apprehensive. I couldn't see how these two would work and fit as mates. They seemed so different from each other. At first, they really are at odds with one another and hurt each other even without fully meaning to. But as they begin to work hand in hand more, they begin to mold a bit more and soften with each stage of the story. What was most interesting was how their relationship builds. It is different than the previous two books and I liked that. Seeing something, a bit different and unique develop. Both characters are tough in different ways and it was quite fun to see how they meshed together and created a wonderful harmony in their personalities. Midnight Awakening has a bit more of a "mystery" tone to the story. It does have some action too, but the major drive of this book is the mystery and trying to figure out what the leader of the rogues has up his sleeve, and Tegan and Elise are the keys to finding out what is really going on. We also see some of our other favorite characters, including poor Rio who is still recovering from his injuries. Now I want to talk about the actual romance a bit. They have quite the bantering going on...heated and intense. The sexual chemistry is blazing, they definitely have that going for them. What was most unique about their story was how they complimented each other so well....both physically and emotionally. I really loved the balance that develops between them. There were some intense moments but also some tender and romantic ones that will have you grabbing for your box of tissues.
I’ll admit it to you now, and to anyone, anytime. I need you, Elise. I love you. You are mine. My woman, my mate, my beloved. My everything.
But his book is next so I CANT wait. We also see a growth in certain character and I loved the depth in this book that kept me hooked. Love the style of Lara Adrian and with each book, I get more caught up in the world building.
The Cover
I quite love this cover. I love the blue and purple tones and the European street feel to the cover. Love how it relates with the story.
Overall View
Midnight Awakening was a brilliantly crafted romance that takes us across oceans riddled with mystery, suspense and desire....this book has everything that you need in a provoking vampire romance!! Lara Adrian at her best with this one.
August 26, 2021
I loved this third book. There's something so enticing about a brooding hero that just makes me love them. And this one was not an exception.
Plus it was a widower story and this is one of my favorite tropes. I hate second chance romance but I love second chance to love again.
And the plot was also interesting with a very courageous heroine.
Plus it was a widower story and this is one of my favorite tropes. I hate second chance romance but I love second chance to love again.
And the plot was also interesting with a very courageous heroine.
April 14, 2010
Welcome to the world of Breed warriors, a group of vampires who have sworn to protect the civilian race of vampires and humans from rogues who have lost their senses to the disease of bloodlust. Bloodlust is the equivalent of a human being addicted to drugs, and all that these rogue vamps can think of is the undying need to quench their thirst. It has started a war that seems to have no end. This is the 3rd book in the Breed series.
This is about Tegan a Gen One( first generation vamp) the deadliest fighter and the coldest of the Breed warriors, no one can get to close to him, he hides behind his cold heart and an equally cold blade. The only thing that he lives for is the hunt and killing of rogues. It’s his past that has shaped him to the warrior he is now, knowing the disease of bloodlust firsthand and the pain of losing a loved one to the rogues. This is all about to change when he meets the beautiful and fragile Elise.
Elise knows pain first hand being a Breedmate(human women who are mated to vamps and can bare them children). In recent years Elise has lost her husband and was in mourning and to make life worst she has lost her son to the rogues, who triggered his bloodlust (check 2nd book Kiss of Crimson). Since all that she loves was taken away, Elise feels she must do something to stop this war. Being gifted with psychic abilities she is able to listen in and find these rogues minions (humans who serve the rogues, no longer able to think for themselves). Since the lost of her son she has been playing a dangerous game of hunt, and has killed a few minions all by her lonesome, until her actions catches up to her. Then it’s Tegan to her rescue, let’s just say she got caught doing something she shouldn’t and he gets dragged into a partnership he doesn’t really want.
So now they are on a mission to figure out what the rogues next move will be, because they have something very important that the leader of the rogues want and will stop at nothing to gain it. Tegan fears for Elise because the rogues now know who she is, he has no choice but to keep her close and that’s the last thing he wants. It has become harder to stay away from her and the need to sink his fangs into her neck only grows stronger, because once they share blood a bond will form that will become unbreakable. Only through death will it be broken. So the chase is on to stop a evil and when one door opens another closes and the Breed is finding that out firsthand. Now another evil might be upon them and will they be able to stop it in time.
I love this series, its fast paced and exciting. The relationship between Tegan and Elise is sweet and sexy. Tege is the man, I love the aloof, I don’t need anyone kinda guy. Elise looks fragile and sweet but when she is needed she becomes a warrior too. A story about how a beauty tames the beast, and a love that heals. Miss Adrian writing is emotional and erotic, nothing like blood and sex to get your mojo going. I can’t wait to continue with the other books; I find that they are getting better with each novel. On the PL scale it’s a 3.5. Tegan oh Tegan you got me. An excellent read!
This is about Tegan a Gen One( first generation vamp) the deadliest fighter and the coldest of the Breed warriors, no one can get to close to him, he hides behind his cold heart and an equally cold blade. The only thing that he lives for is the hunt and killing of rogues. It’s his past that has shaped him to the warrior he is now, knowing the disease of bloodlust firsthand and the pain of losing a loved one to the rogues. This is all about to change when he meets the beautiful and fragile Elise.
Elise knows pain first hand being a Breedmate(human women who are mated to vamps and can bare them children). In recent years Elise has lost her husband and was in mourning and to make life worst she has lost her son to the rogues, who triggered his bloodlust (check 2nd book Kiss of Crimson). Since all that she loves was taken away, Elise feels she must do something to stop this war. Being gifted with psychic abilities she is able to listen in and find these rogues minions (humans who serve the rogues, no longer able to think for themselves). Since the lost of her son she has been playing a dangerous game of hunt, and has killed a few minions all by her lonesome, until her actions catches up to her. Then it’s Tegan to her rescue, let’s just say she got caught doing something she shouldn’t and he gets dragged into a partnership he doesn’t really want.
So now they are on a mission to figure out what the rogues next move will be, because they have something very important that the leader of the rogues want and will stop at nothing to gain it. Tegan fears for Elise because the rogues now know who she is, he has no choice but to keep her close and that’s the last thing he wants. It has become harder to stay away from her and the need to sink his fangs into her neck only grows stronger, because once they share blood a bond will form that will become unbreakable. Only through death will it be broken. So the chase is on to stop a evil and when one door opens another closes and the Breed is finding that out firsthand. Now another evil might be upon them and will they be able to stop it in time.
I love this series, its fast paced and exciting. The relationship between Tegan and Elise is sweet and sexy. Tege is the man, I love the aloof, I don’t need anyone kinda guy. Elise looks fragile and sweet but when she is needed she becomes a warrior too. A story about how a beauty tames the beast, and a love that heals. Miss Adrian writing is emotional and erotic, nothing like blood and sex to get your mojo going. I can’t wait to continue with the other books; I find that they are getting better with each novel. On the PL scale it’s a 3.5. Tegan oh Tegan you got me. An excellent read!
March 24, 2012
Lara Adrian’s enchanted world of vampires series was suggested by one of my Goodreads friends....and am I happy she did!!!! I have read 4 books in the series so far and I like it very much.
Midnight Awakening is the 3rd book in the series and by far my favourite....Tegan is a dark, sexy, cold, tortured, loyal and very strong Gen One warrior member of the Breeds vampires who fight the evil vampires known as Rogues. He is determined never to trust anyone or get close to a woman due to losing his breed mate hundreds of years ago to the evil vampires. He cares only about justice and vengeance and has no feelings in his cold heart.
Elise Chace, who we met in the previous book, Kiss of Crimson and did not really impress me that much......, comes back with a PUNCH in this book. She’s a widow from Darkhaven, where she’s been protected after losing her husband and son to the evil Rogue Vampires. She’s on a mission.. She moves out from the safety she has always known to a dark, seedy and dangerous part of Boston, where she assumes an almost vigilant status by drawing out the Rogues and their minions and killing as many as possible. Her transformation is beyond amazing....from being this loyal, quiet, soft widow to cutting her beautiful long hair into a spiky, short style, she is now a dangerous, tough kick-ass “assassin”. I love the new Elise...reminds me a bit of Xhex from the BDB series in a way but just a bit softer and confident, loyal, – loved her diplomatic manner in dealing with the Darkhavens from Berlin!!!! And her way of dealing with unwanted attention from males is to be admired...she’s does do the “break his balls” thing but in a respectful, strong and assertive way that they get the message immediately. She is my favourite heroine in this series...I just love her character....makes me wish I could be her right now!!!!!
After forging an alliance, with both not trusting each, they slowly feel an incredible connection which they fight against. Unable to keep their feelings for each other is very difficult and when they connect.....wow....just passion, tenderness.....really lovely. From the beginning, you can feel the sizzling chemistry between them that slowly builds to a boiling point – finding their love and commitment to each other for eternity.
What really keeps me reading this series is the author’s world building.....incredible. Like her using different settings – Boston, Berlin, Prague....the mix between the two worlds...vampires and humans. Somehow it makes it so much more believable to me. Also including characters from her previous books gets us to become more engaged with them. I so admire her female characters who are not the males shadows but play a huge part in their lives and the struggles and fights against evil. They have a voice and opinion which is appreciated.
The suspense is taut with non-stop action and the dialogue is really good.
I am now a “serious” fan of Lara Adrian and can’t wait to finish reading the whole series.
If you are a “mad” lover of JR Ward’s BDB series, you will love the Midnight Breeds.
Midnight Awakening is the 3rd book in the series and by far my favourite....Tegan is a dark, sexy, cold, tortured, loyal and very strong Gen One warrior member of the Breeds vampires who fight the evil vampires known as Rogues. He is determined never to trust anyone or get close to a woman due to losing his breed mate hundreds of years ago to the evil vampires. He cares only about justice and vengeance and has no feelings in his cold heart.
Elise Chace, who we met in the previous book, Kiss of Crimson and did not really impress me that much......, comes back with a PUNCH in this book. She’s a widow from Darkhaven, where she’s been protected after losing her husband and son to the evil Rogue Vampires. She’s on a mission.. She moves out from the safety she has always known to a dark, seedy and dangerous part of Boston, where she assumes an almost vigilant status by drawing out the Rogues and their minions and killing as many as possible. Her transformation is beyond amazing....from being this loyal, quiet, soft widow to cutting her beautiful long hair into a spiky, short style, she is now a dangerous, tough kick-ass “assassin”. I love the new Elise...reminds me a bit of Xhex from the BDB series in a way but just a bit softer and confident, loyal, – loved her diplomatic manner in dealing with the Darkhavens from Berlin!!!! And her way of dealing with unwanted attention from males is to be admired...she’s does do the “break his balls” thing but in a respectful, strong and assertive way that they get the message immediately. She is my favourite heroine in this series...I just love her character....makes me wish I could be her right now!!!!!
After forging an alliance, with both not trusting each, they slowly feel an incredible connection which they fight against. Unable to keep their feelings for each other is very difficult and when they connect.....wow....just passion, tenderness.....really lovely. From the beginning, you can feel the sizzling chemistry between them that slowly builds to a boiling point – finding their love and commitment to each other for eternity.
What really keeps me reading this series is the author’s world building.....incredible. Like her using different settings – Boston, Berlin, Prague....the mix between the two worlds...vampires and humans. Somehow it makes it so much more believable to me. Also including characters from her previous books gets us to become more engaged with them. I so admire her female characters who are not the males shadows but play a huge part in their lives and the struggles and fights against evil. They have a voice and opinion which is appreciated.
The suspense is taut with non-stop action and the dialogue is really good.
I am now a “serious” fan of Lara Adrian and can’t wait to finish reading the whole series.
If you are a “mad” lover of JR Ward’s BDB series, you will love the Midnight Breeds.
September 13, 2020
Tegan still makes my heart sigh!!He and Elise are in my top favorite Breed couples-the vulnerability and the seriously sexy chemistry...holy smokes! And Elise has come quite a ways since her original introduction. She’s a survivor and nothing’s going to stand in her way to achieve vengeance. Except maybe Tegan. Although, I think he was rather mowed down by Elise’s determination...
The action in the one is good too. Fast momentum and lots of information happening, but nothing deviates from the couple taking center stage. What’s not to like about an extremely grumpy-ass (he’s not really a hater, but is very good at deflecting) hero being brought down by a slip of a woman who can kick butt and hold her own?!
The action in the one is good too. Fast momentum and lots of information happening, but nothing deviates from the couple taking center stage. What’s not to like about an extremely grumpy-ass (he’s not really a hater, but is very good at deflecting) hero being brought down by a slip of a woman who can kick butt and hold her own?!
March 11, 2008
Out of the three novels, I can't decide which I liked more. If forced to choose, however, I'd have to say this one is my favourite... so far.
More excellent actions scenes that have you holding your breath. More erotic sex scenes that leave you just as breathless as the characters...
I'm so unbelievably happy for Tegan and Elise, happy that they found each other, happy that they found the love that was lacking. After all they'd been through, they so deserve each other.
Maket gets what he deserves, but a twist in this one makes it far from over.
My mistake was reading the excerpt for Midnight Rising. It isn't out until March 25th and already I'm too anxious! LOL!
More excellent actions scenes that have you holding your breath. More erotic sex scenes that leave you just as breathless as the characters...
I'm so unbelievably happy for Tegan and Elise, happy that they found each other, happy that they found the love that was lacking. After all they'd been through, they so deserve each other.
Maket gets what he deserves, but a twist in this one makes it far from over.
My mistake was reading the excerpt for Midnight Rising. It isn't out until March 25th and already I'm too anxious! LOL!
February 6, 2024
**re-read**
January 12, 2022
Geschöpf der Finsternis (Midnight Breed, #3) ♦ Lara Adrian | Rezension
Mit Geschöpf der Finsternis traf ich im dritten Band der Midnight Breed – Reihe auf Elise und Tegan. Natürlich waren mir beide Charaktere aus den vorangegangenen Büchern bereits bekannt. Aber wie es bei dieser Reihe so Brauch ist, sollte ich beide Figuren auf diesen Seiten noch besser kennenlernen. Ich war auch ehrlich gesagt überrascht, dass Lara Adrian den eher kalten und rohen Krieger Tegan bereits so früh in der Reihe vorgestellt hat. Doch dies sollte keine Enttäuschung werden. Aber auch Elise konnte verblüffen.
Geschöpf der Finsternis ♦ Lara Adrian
Gleich zu Beginn muss ich sagen, dass ich Elise wirklich mag. Selbst, wenn ich anfangs meine Zweifel hatte. Nach dem Vorgängerband der Reihe, Gefangene des Blutes, hätte ich Elise nie als Heldin betrachtet. Doch ich lernte sie zu mögen und auch zu respektieren. Denn nach allem, was sie verloren hatte, ist sie wie ein Phönix aus der Asche auferstanden und sich entschlossen, ihr Leben und ihre Rache, selbst in die Hand zu nehmen.
Und sie hat sich dafür entschieden untern den Menschen zu leben. Doch aufgrund ihrer angeborenen Gabe leidet Elise Höllenqualen, denn sie kann die hässlichsten und dunkelsten Gedanken der Menschen hören. Trotzdem geht sie los, um Lakaien, deren Gedanken abgrundtief sind, zu jagen und (!) zu töten. Dabei musste ich mit dem Kopf schütteln, aber auch staunen, denn der Schmerz ihres Verlustes gibt ihr die nötige Stärke, um ihre Rachepläne voranzubringen.
Tegan, knallhart und emotional in Mitleidenschaft gezogen, kommt als beeindruckender Krieger des Ordens und Stammesvampir der ersten Generation um die Ecke. Von Anbeginn der Reihe war mir Tegan ein wenig suspekt, er war kalt und mürrisch. Doch sobald die LeserInnen von seiner Vergangenheit erfahren und dann lesen, zu welcher Zärtlichkeit und Sanftmut er gegenüber Elise fähig ist, schließt man ihn letztendlich ins Herz. Auch die Art, wie er den Schmerz von Elise ernst nahm und ihr Respekt entgegenbrachte. Natürlich war er alles andere als begeistert, als er von ihrer kleinen Privatmission erfahren hat, doch er erkannte auch die Notwendigkeit für Elise.
Bevor ich dieses Buch in die Hand genommen habe, konnte ich mir keinen Reim daraus machen, warum die Autorin gerade diese beiden füreinander auserkoren hat. Denn auf den ersten Blick können sie nicht unterschiedlicher sein: Elise, eine verwöhnte, zarte Stammesgefährtin, aufgewachsen in der gehobenen Gesellschaft der Dunklen Häfen; und Tegan, ein wilder, rauer Krieger, der als gewissenlos betrachtet wird. Dennoch haben sie eine Verbindung und können einander verstehen, die Verluste, die beide erfahren haben, ihre Leben und ihre Persönlichkeiten veränderten. Natürlich gibt es auch in Geschöpf der Finsternis eine starke emotionale und sexuelle Bindung zwischen den beiden Hauptprotagonisten, auf welche Lara Adrian großartig aufbaut.
Bisher bauen die Bände der Reihe sehr gut aufeinander auf. Lara Adrian hat eine interessante Welt in der Urban Fantasy erschaffen. Die Idee, dass Vampire die Nachkommen der außerirdischen Rasse sind, welche vor Jahrtausenden auf die Erde kamen, in einen blutrünstigen Amoklauf ausbrachen und sich mit besonderen Menschenfrauen fortpflanzen konnten, begeistert mich. Es macht wirklich Spaß, mit jedem neuen Band tiefer in die Handlung abzutauchen.
Neben den Emotionen und der Erotik kommt aber auch die Action nicht zu kurz. Die Kämpfe der Krieger sind intensiv und gewalttätig. Es besteht immer die Möglichkeit, dass einer von ihnen schwer verwundet oder sogar sterben könnte. Für alle Beteiligten steht sehr viel auf dem Spiel und man hält beim Lesen regelrecht den Atem an und hofft inständig, dass sich alles zum Guten wendet. Der Bösewicht Marek ist ein völlig verabscheuungswürdiger, moralisch abgebrannter Scheißkerl, bei dem man sich als LeserIn wünscht, dass er bald sein Schicksal durch den Orden erfährt.
Wie auch in den vorangegangenen Bänden, schließt dieses Buch mit einem Handlungsstrang ab, lässt aber weitere geheimnisvolle böse Machenschaften offen mit denen sich die Ordenskrieger zukünftig befassen müssen. Ich bin schon gespannt, wie es mit den anderen Charakteren (Rio, Sterling Chase, und Niko) weitergeht und welche Stammesgefärtinnen die Autorin für sie in petto hat.
Mit den neu rekrutierten Waffenbrüdern Kade und Brock schafft es Lara Adrian ethnische Vielfalt in die Reihe einfließen zu lassen, was ich bei anderen Reihen dieser Art oft schmerzlich vermisse.
Fazit
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Geschöpf der Finsternis konnte mich mit jeder Seite mitnehmen. Über den Schreibstil muss hier nicht mehr viel gesagt werden, denn der war wie immer tadellos und lies mich nur so durch die Seiten fliegen. Tegan und Elise sind ein schönes Paar, die gegenseitig ihre Mauern einreißen konnten und ich bin gespannt, wie beiden in den Folgebänden als Nebencharaktere noch auftreten werden.
Geschöpf der Finsternis ♦ Lara Adrian auf The Art of Reading.
Mit Geschöpf der Finsternis traf ich im dritten Band der Midnight Breed – Reihe auf Elise und Tegan. Natürlich waren mir beide Charaktere aus den vorangegangenen Büchern bereits bekannt. Aber wie es bei dieser Reihe so Brauch ist, sollte ich beide Figuren auf diesen Seiten noch besser kennenlernen. Ich war auch ehrlich gesagt überrascht, dass Lara Adrian den eher kalten und rohen Krieger Tegan bereits so früh in der Reihe vorgestellt hat. Doch dies sollte keine Enttäuschung werden. Aber auch Elise konnte verblüffen.
Geschöpf der Finsternis ♦ Lara Adrian
Gleich zu Beginn muss ich sagen, dass ich Elise wirklich mag. Selbst, wenn ich anfangs meine Zweifel hatte. Nach dem Vorgängerband der Reihe, Gefangene des Blutes, hätte ich Elise nie als Heldin betrachtet. Doch ich lernte sie zu mögen und auch zu respektieren. Denn nach allem, was sie verloren hatte, ist sie wie ein Phönix aus der Asche auferstanden und sich entschlossen, ihr Leben und ihre Rache, selbst in die Hand zu nehmen.
Und sie hat sich dafür entschieden untern den Menschen zu leben. Doch aufgrund ihrer angeborenen Gabe leidet Elise Höllenqualen, denn sie kann die hässlichsten und dunkelsten Gedanken der Menschen hören. Trotzdem geht sie los, um Lakaien, deren Gedanken abgrundtief sind, zu jagen und (!) zu töten. Dabei musste ich mit dem Kopf schütteln, aber auch staunen, denn der Schmerz ihres Verlustes gibt ihr die nötige Stärke, um ihre Rachepläne voranzubringen.
Tegan, knallhart und emotional in Mitleidenschaft gezogen, kommt als beeindruckender Krieger des Ordens und Stammesvampir der ersten Generation um die Ecke. Von Anbeginn der Reihe war mir Tegan ein wenig suspekt, er war kalt und mürrisch. Doch sobald die LeserInnen von seiner Vergangenheit erfahren und dann lesen, zu welcher Zärtlichkeit und Sanftmut er gegenüber Elise fähig ist, schließt man ihn letztendlich ins Herz. Auch die Art, wie er den Schmerz von Elise ernst nahm und ihr Respekt entgegenbrachte. Natürlich war er alles andere als begeistert, als er von ihrer kleinen Privatmission erfahren hat, doch er erkannte auch die Notwendigkeit für Elise.
Bevor ich dieses Buch in die Hand genommen habe, konnte ich mir keinen Reim daraus machen, warum die Autorin gerade diese beiden füreinander auserkoren hat. Denn auf den ersten Blick können sie nicht unterschiedlicher sein: Elise, eine verwöhnte, zarte Stammesgefährtin, aufgewachsen in der gehobenen Gesellschaft der Dunklen Häfen; und Tegan, ein wilder, rauer Krieger, der als gewissenlos betrachtet wird. Dennoch haben sie eine Verbindung und können einander verstehen, die Verluste, die beide erfahren haben, ihre Leben und ihre Persönlichkeiten veränderten. Natürlich gibt es auch in Geschöpf der Finsternis eine starke emotionale und sexuelle Bindung zwischen den beiden Hauptprotagonisten, auf welche Lara Adrian großartig aufbaut.
Bisher bauen die Bände der Reihe sehr gut aufeinander auf. Lara Adrian hat eine interessante Welt in der Urban Fantasy erschaffen. Die Idee, dass Vampire die Nachkommen der außerirdischen Rasse sind, welche vor Jahrtausenden auf die Erde kamen, in einen blutrünstigen Amoklauf ausbrachen und sich mit besonderen Menschenfrauen fortpflanzen konnten, begeistert mich. Es macht wirklich Spaß, mit jedem neuen Band tiefer in die Handlung abzutauchen.
Neben den Emotionen und der Erotik kommt aber auch die Action nicht zu kurz. Die Kämpfe der Krieger sind intensiv und gewalttätig. Es besteht immer die Möglichkeit, dass einer von ihnen schwer verwundet oder sogar sterben könnte. Für alle Beteiligten steht sehr viel auf dem Spiel und man hält beim Lesen regelrecht den Atem an und hofft inständig, dass sich alles zum Guten wendet. Der Bösewicht Marek ist ein völlig verabscheuungswürdiger, moralisch abgebrannter Scheißkerl, bei dem man sich als LeserIn wünscht, dass er bald sein Schicksal durch den Orden erfährt.
Wie auch in den vorangegangenen Bänden, schließt dieses Buch mit einem Handlungsstrang ab, lässt aber weitere geheimnisvolle böse Machenschaften offen mit denen sich die Ordenskrieger zukünftig befassen müssen. Ich bin schon gespannt, wie es mit den anderen Charakteren (Rio, Sterling Chase, und Niko) weitergeht und welche Stammesgefärtinnen die Autorin für sie in petto hat.
Mit den neu rekrutierten Waffenbrüdern Kade und Brock schafft es Lara Adrian ethnische Vielfalt in die Reihe einfließen zu lassen, was ich bei anderen Reihen dieser Art oft schmerzlich vermisse.
Fazit
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Geschöpf der Finsternis konnte mich mit jeder Seite mitnehmen. Über den Schreibstil muss hier nicht mehr viel gesagt werden, denn der war wie immer tadellos und lies mich nur so durch die Seiten fliegen. Tegan und Elise sind ein schönes Paar, die gegenseitig ihre Mauern einreißen konnten und ich bin gespannt, wie beiden in den Folgebänden als Nebencharaktere noch auftreten werden.
Geschöpf der Finsternis ♦ Lara Adrian auf The Art of Reading.
May 8, 2016
I really like this series. At the beginning of this book I didn't like Tegan much I thought that he was too harsh with Elise, but in the end I think he maybe my favorite so far. Elise Chase has left the darkhaven that she was living she is a widow and after the death of her only son who went rogue after getting hooked on crimson the drug that Ben made that drug that turned vampires rogue her son was killed by her former brother in law Sterling she made a promise to hunt minions and kill as many as she can. Elise has psychic powers she can hear what humans are saying. Tegan lost his breedmate to the Rogues, or he thought it was rogues 500 yrs ago and still he can't forgive them or himself. He feels he should have been there to protect her. The only way he exists is to focus totally on fighting the Rogues who threaten his people. Not that his people really appreciate the men of the Order. Tegan finds Elise being attacked by Rogues, he saves her and follows her home where he discovers she is hunting and killing minions by herself. Tegan is also shocked at her appearance and how she is living he thought she was still in the darkhaven she has not fed and her power is killing her slowly. Elise has stumbled on a rare book desperately wanted by Marik, the leader of the Rogues. Rescuing her from the Rogues one more time Tegan takes her to the Order. Everyone is trying to understand the old diary she has found. Elise is willing to do whatever it takes to help the Order Tegan is so rude and crass with her trying to scare her off because he has some kind of feeling for her so his answer is to treat her like dirt when she goes to him for help. I loved how this book flowed and I loved the chemistry between Tegan and Elise. This book was very well written (read) as I listened to it. This book had a lot of action and I don't want to put to many spoilers in this review. We also meet some new members to the Order that I am looking forward to reading about. If you like hot male vamps I would recommend you read this series.
April 28, 2023
This is probably the best of the Breeds series so far. Hmm. Best of Breed. Sounds like a dog show. But I digress.
Tegan and Elise are a great couple for several reasons. I think the biggest one is that we didn't have to go through the whole thing of the female learning what she is. It was nice that she already knew all about the Breeds and everything else was just the story. They were both strong, damaged characters who had no intention of falling in love, but they respected each other right off the bat, which was also nice. They worked well together as a team and that feels unique sometimes in this genre. I thought their background pain was accessible. It wasn't anything trumped up, but was believable and relatable to something that could happen in real life ... to a point, of course.
What I don't like is that authors seem to feel compelled to downgrade the first love to make the second love romantic. Poor Sorcha and Quentin ended up being bland in comparison. I hate that. There shouldn't even be a comparison. It's not necessary, in my opinion, to make the late spouse lacking in order for the current spouse to be beloved. It always comes off as disrespectful to me, and I don't trust that the protagonists will continue to love each other. I mean they thought they loved those other duds, right? See. It backfires. To be fair, Adrian did this much less than I've seen in most other stories with this theme, but it's still there, and even a little is too much for me.
The story was suspenseful and romantic. It had good emotional impact and good action. It finished off an arc started in the first book, but also launched the arc that begins with the next one. It was well done.
I've already read the next book and this one is superior. But overall I think Adrian definitely has better chops than I'd thought when I took a year to finish Kiss of Midnight. I'm really enjoying this series.
Tegan and Elise are a great couple for several reasons. I think the biggest one is that we didn't have to go through the whole thing of the female learning what she is. It was nice that she already knew all about the Breeds and everything else was just the story. They were both strong, damaged characters who had no intention of falling in love, but they respected each other right off the bat, which was also nice. They worked well together as a team and that feels unique sometimes in this genre. I thought their background pain was accessible. It wasn't anything trumped up, but was believable and relatable to something that could happen in real life ... to a point, of course.
What I don't like is that authors seem to feel compelled to downgrade the first love to make the second love romantic. Poor Sorcha and Quentin ended up being bland in comparison. I hate that. There shouldn't even be a comparison. It's not necessary, in my opinion, to make the late spouse lacking in order for the current spouse to be beloved. It always comes off as disrespectful to me, and I don't trust that the protagonists will continue to love each other. I mean they thought they loved those other duds, right? See. It backfires. To be fair, Adrian did this much less than I've seen in most other stories with this theme, but it's still there, and even a little is too much for me.
The story was suspenseful and romantic. It had good emotional impact and good action. It finished off an arc started in the first book, but also launched the arc that begins with the next one. It was well done.
I've already read the next book and this one is superior. But overall I think Adrian definitely has better chops than I'd thought when I took a year to finish Kiss of Midnight. I'm really enjoying this series.
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