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Order of the Nines #1
Chaos and Moonlight
The Nines, an elite group of vampires, was established to stand as protection for their race. Fractured by centuries of betrayal and loss, the group is now little more than myth, its remaining members scarred and shattered.
Taris, the oldest living vampire, is no stranger to loss and heartbreak. He is all that holds the Nines together as they struggle to save themselves from total extinction.
Enter the beautiful and brilliant Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, whose medical research has resulted in a breakthrough for both humans and vampires. Her work may be the salvation this weary band of guardians has been looking for.
Taris needs to reach Sarah and enlist her help before those aligned against him can act. Can a vampire king convince a stunning young scientist to save a species that isn’t even supposed to exist?
For now, only one thing is no science can explain the explosive chemistry between them.
Chaos and Moonlight is the first installment in the Order of the Nines series, and is A. D. Marrow’s debut novel.
Praise for Chaos and Moonlight:
"A.D. Marrow's Chaos and Moonlight takes readers on an emotional roller-coaster ride, full of passionate characters and story line that will leave you begging for more." — Gina L. Maxwell, USA Today and New York Times bestselling author
"Chaos and Moonlight was fast-paced and thrilling. The plot was well executed and fascinating. The story had a good flow and was difficult to put down…I am impressed by her writing style and creativity. I will definitely continue reading this series." —Diane’s Book Blog
“I love it when an author takes a tired old trope and turns it on its ear. This is exactly what A.D. Marrow has done in her debut novel, Chaos and Moonlight…” —Will Read for Feels
"Chaos and Moonlight was a mix between a Christine Feehan and J.R. Ward book…I will definitely be reading more of this author's future work!" — Goodreads reviewer323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2015
5 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Marrow
3 books51 followersA.D Marrow is a a registered Sapiophile, a proud Geek since before Geek was chic and believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. She lives in the foothills of North Carolina with her ridiculously hot and amazingly supportive husband, three kids that rock so hard there should be a national holiday for their awesomeness, two really stupid dogs and a plethora of Post-it notes with book ideas to last her until she’s 90. Her childhood dream is realized in the fact that YOU have cause to read her bio. She hopes that one day, it lends her enough credibility to live out her second dream, which is to write an episode of Doctor Who.
Her personal mantra echoes that of Morticia Adams; “Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.”
Her personal mantra echoes that of Morticia Adams; “Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 1, 2015
I saw this book awhile ago and couldn't help but want an ARC of it. To be honest, I wasn't sure if it'd be any good or another BDB knock-off, more than thrilled to say this book was way better than the BDB series and was extremely different on so many levels. I absolutely adored this story, each character was just so well written and came to life as the story progressed. Normally when multiple characters are involved in a story you get glimpses of each one's personality, but it remains pretty shallow. This wasn't the case at all, the author was able to give you this deep look into each of the characters souls and gave parts of their history. The side stories easily intertwined with the main plot and helped to drive the story forward.
Realistically, this story focuses on Taris and Sarah, but each of the side characters introduced play a main role in this story. Everyone involved in the "Order of the Nine" as well as the evil guys play a major part in each section of events. What's unusual is the fact I didn't feel overwhelmed by so many characters or get annoyed by the backstory that was continually introduced. It all worked together very well. I also really liked not having to wait till the end for everything to come together, the author knitted it together step by step so it made sense as you read. You weren't just sitting around pondering what was going on.
The really cool factor of this book was the fact there are female warriors but they're not all boyish. They keep their femininity and are different from each other, it's not a bunch of clones running around. Sarah, the main heroine, was also pretty neat because she was a mix of brains and average appearance which is a nice change from either the curvy bombshell or perfect princess that's been favored lately.
What really sealed the deal for this book is the fact I felt really bad for one of the evil guys. I really wanted him to be saved during the entire book because he was so damaged and abused, it was heartbreaking.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am already getting antsy waiting for the next installment in this series. I think it's fabulously written and worth a read for any vampire fan out there. I think any paranormal/ PNR lover should read this. The plot is rich, the romance is steamy and there's plenty of action and gore.
18+ There are sex scenes, scenes of abuse and violence. This story is not for the faint of heart.
Realistically, this story focuses on Taris and Sarah, but each of the side characters introduced play a main role in this story. Everyone involved in the "Order of the Nine" as well as the evil guys play a major part in each section of events. What's unusual is the fact I didn't feel overwhelmed by so many characters or get annoyed by the backstory that was continually introduced. It all worked together very well. I also really liked not having to wait till the end for everything to come together, the author knitted it together step by step so it made sense as you read. You weren't just sitting around pondering what was going on.
The really cool factor of this book was the fact there are female warriors but they're not all boyish. They keep their femininity and are different from each other, it's not a bunch of clones running around. Sarah, the main heroine, was also pretty neat because she was a mix of brains and average appearance which is a nice change from either the curvy bombshell or perfect princess that's been favored lately.
What really sealed the deal for this book is the fact I felt really bad for one of the evil guys. I really wanted him to be saved during the entire book because he was so damaged and abused, it was heartbreaking.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am already getting antsy waiting for the next installment in this series. I think it's fabulously written and worth a read for any vampire fan out there. I think any paranormal/ PNR lover should read this. The plot is rich, the romance is steamy and there's plenty of action and gore.
18+ There are sex scenes, scenes of abuse and violence. This story is not for the faint of heart.
May 14, 2015
So wickedly in love with this book! Who doesn't love sexy vampires, passionate sex, adventure, and the promise of falling in love? Chaos and Moonlight is the first book in the Order of the Nines series which centers mostly around an eight hundred year old vampire, Taris, and a brilliant doctor, Sarah. The premise of this book is that vampires are dying out and can't turn humans as the human body rejects the change, ultimately killing the vessel. Sarah and her partner have made groundbreaking steps forward in their medical research which could help the vampires situation.
Sarah and Taris are attracted to each other instantly. Taris actually admonishes his cock's response to Sarah which made me have a good laugh. Both of them are witty and verbally spar, mostly due to Taris purposely pushing Sarah to lash out because he's struggling to fight his attraction to her. Taris is really impressive with his sense of responsibility, his maturity, his fierce loyalty, his humor, and his cleverness. I found myself liking Taris as soon as he appeared. Sarah is an intelligent, passionate, blunt, and very modern woman. I liked her, quite a lot. Taris and Sarah together made me laugh, pant, sigh, and smile.
My overall star rating is a 4.5 for the impress verbiage, the natural flow of the plot, the awesome characters and their development, and for making me love Taris. This novel weaves a vivid tapestry of fantasy, sex, love, and adventure. I'm looking forward to the next book on the series!
Sarah and Taris are attracted to each other instantly. Taris actually admonishes his cock's response to Sarah which made me have a good laugh. Both of them are witty and verbally spar, mostly due to Taris purposely pushing Sarah to lash out because he's struggling to fight his attraction to her. Taris is really impressive with his sense of responsibility, his maturity, his fierce loyalty, his humor, and his cleverness. I found myself liking Taris as soon as he appeared. Sarah is an intelligent, passionate, blunt, and very modern woman. I liked her, quite a lot. Taris and Sarah together made me laugh, pant, sigh, and smile.
My overall star rating is a 4.5 for the impress verbiage, the natural flow of the plot, the awesome characters and their development, and for making me love Taris. This novel weaves a vivid tapestry of fantasy, sex, love, and adventure. I'm looking forward to the next book on the series!
May 26, 2015
4.5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Chaos and Moonlight was a great introduction to the new ‘Order of the Nines’ series and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I thought the premise for the book was great – Vampires on the edge of extinction looking to find a cure so that more vampires can be created. Our leading man – Taris – is the oldest living vampire, one who started a group of vampires known as the Nines to protect both humans and vampires alike from each other. That all changed when they were betrayed by their own and Taris lost interest in saving people, leaving the rest of the group leaderless. Now, Taris is looking for a cure for the vampires so that their race can survive and live on but there is another who wants the cure for more nefarious reasons and will stop at nothing to get it.
When a bright, young and brilliant doctor brings her discovery to the media, it grabs the attention of all vampires but there are two sides that are really willing to do something about it….. both are on the hunt for Dr. Sarah Bridgeman whose brand of research could save more than she thinks. Luckily Taris gets to her before the enemy and must do everything in his power to protect her and the hope she unknowingly brings to the vampire race. He may be getting the cure to the vampire curse but will she also be able to defrost his cold heart?
I really enjoyed this book, everything about it in fact because I’m always on the lookout for a great vampire story. As I mentioned, I loved the idea behind the story and it brought something fresh to the table from a typical love story. I liked all of the characters in the book and even though Taris & Sarah were the main focus, I still became invested in all of the characters throughout the book. The romance is a major draw for me in these books and I enjoyed what we got here, I thought Taris and Sarah made a great couple, they shared some good chemistry and a nice dose of sexytime. Sarah was just what Taris needed, someone to be there for him, to challenge him and of course the bond they shared was great. I liked how she frustrated him and how their preconceived notions of each other were challenged but they definitely were a couple you could route for.
There was plenty of action in the story as Sarah is the target and both sides want her, one will fight to take her and the other to protect her and this brought about some great fight scenes and some even better reveals. The story is told in multiple povs which includes the enemies take on things and I always appreciate the all round view we get from this, I like to know what is going on in everyone's head so that’s always a plus. I said that all of the characters were likable and I’m hoping that we will find out more about these, we find some things out but only the basics but the characters really grab you attention with their own battles. I like the idea of the ‘Nines’ and I think it would be great if they could start it back up and get back into the thick of things for future books…but as far as this goes…. It’s a great start!
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Chaos and Moonlight was a great introduction to the new ‘Order of the Nines’ series and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I thought the premise for the book was great – Vampires on the edge of extinction looking to find a cure so that more vampires can be created. Our leading man – Taris – is the oldest living vampire, one who started a group of vampires known as the Nines to protect both humans and vampires alike from each other. That all changed when they were betrayed by their own and Taris lost interest in saving people, leaving the rest of the group leaderless. Now, Taris is looking for a cure for the vampires so that their race can survive and live on but there is another who wants the cure for more nefarious reasons and will stop at nothing to get it.
When a bright, young and brilliant doctor brings her discovery to the media, it grabs the attention of all vampires but there are two sides that are really willing to do something about it….. both are on the hunt for Dr. Sarah Bridgeman whose brand of research could save more than she thinks. Luckily Taris gets to her before the enemy and must do everything in his power to protect her and the hope she unknowingly brings to the vampire race. He may be getting the cure to the vampire curse but will she also be able to defrost his cold heart?
I really enjoyed this book, everything about it in fact because I’m always on the lookout for a great vampire story. As I mentioned, I loved the idea behind the story and it brought something fresh to the table from a typical love story. I liked all of the characters in the book and even though Taris & Sarah were the main focus, I still became invested in all of the characters throughout the book. The romance is a major draw for me in these books and I enjoyed what we got here, I thought Taris and Sarah made a great couple, they shared some good chemistry and a nice dose of sexytime. Sarah was just what Taris needed, someone to be there for him, to challenge him and of course the bond they shared was great. I liked how she frustrated him and how their preconceived notions of each other were challenged but they definitely were a couple you could route for.
There was plenty of action in the story as Sarah is the target and both sides want her, one will fight to take her and the other to protect her and this brought about some great fight scenes and some even better reveals. The story is told in multiple povs which includes the enemies take on things and I always appreciate the all round view we get from this, I like to know what is going on in everyone's head so that’s always a plus. I said that all of the characters were likable and I’m hoping that we will find out more about these, we find some things out but only the basics but the characters really grab you attention with their own battles. I like the idea of the ‘Nines’ and I think it would be great if they could start it back up and get back into the thick of things for future books…but as far as this goes…. It’s a great start!
May 27, 2015
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
I would like to thank Netgalley and Full Fathom Five for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
This book is great! I'm officially in love with Taris :)
The vampires are looking for a cure so their race doesn't become extinct and Sarah and Nick just might have that cure.
This is the first time I have read a book with a different take on vampires. These particular vampires can have children, well when they are cured they can go back to having children. They have a sort of virus at the moment. They also eat real food. They don't survive on blood, although they drink it, but it's real food that keeps them alive. It was weird, but in a good way. It only means you could have a really good meal with your vampire boyfriend in my opinion! No pun intended :)
The Order of the Nines are a type of warrior group of vampires. They keep things in order etc. They were sort of disbanded years ago by someone going rogue, etc. Trying not to give too many spoilers away!!!! The main ones stayed together in a huge compound of their own. Taris is the oldest living vampire of 800 years and he is leader of the Nines. When they get down to fighting they have an arsenal of weapons and it's just bad to the bone. I love it.
Meanwhile, Sarah and Taris get a connection and we all know what that means. It's hot and heavy and sweet.
There are some really sad stories with a few of the members, but I loved all of these characters. Well I hated Morrigan, but she's not good. Bane has issues of his own.
Overall I really liked this book and I am glad the author is writing more of these as I'm looking forward to the series. I want to see some of them that got together make a vampire baby and other cool things you don't ordinarily read about vampires!
I recommend to all paranormal/fantasy lovers.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Full Fathom Five for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
This book is great! I'm officially in love with Taris :)
The vampires are looking for a cure so their race doesn't become extinct and Sarah and Nick just might have that cure.
This is the first time I have read a book with a different take on vampires. These particular vampires can have children, well when they are cured they can go back to having children. They have a sort of virus at the moment. They also eat real food. They don't survive on blood, although they drink it, but it's real food that keeps them alive. It was weird, but in a good way. It only means you could have a really good meal with your vampire boyfriend in my opinion! No pun intended :)
The Order of the Nines are a type of warrior group of vampires. They keep things in order etc. They were sort of disbanded years ago by someone going rogue, etc. Trying not to give too many spoilers away!!!! The main ones stayed together in a huge compound of their own. Taris is the oldest living vampire of 800 years and he is leader of the Nines. When they get down to fighting they have an arsenal of weapons and it's just bad to the bone. I love it.
Meanwhile, Sarah and Taris get a connection and we all know what that means. It's hot and heavy and sweet.
There are some really sad stories with a few of the members, but I loved all of these characters. Well I hated Morrigan, but she's not good. Bane has issues of his own.
Overall I really liked this book and I am glad the author is writing more of these as I'm looking forward to the series. I want to see some of them that got together make a vampire baby and other cool things you don't ordinarily read about vampires!
I recommend to all paranormal/fantasy lovers.
May 6, 2015
First of a new series and it sure does start with a bang! The vampire race are on the verge of total extinction and right from the first page it's obvious that a medical breakthrough is the only way forward. The race is on to find a cure but not everyone has the best interests of both vampires and humans in their sights and that's were this story truly begins .
Taris is leader of his clan as the oldest living vampire and refuses to watch those he loves suffer anymore. By chance he learns of groundbreaking research been carried out by a pair of Doctors and sets out to see if the mixed immune system trials could help save his race. Taris is not alone in hearing about Dr Sarah Bridgemans discovery though and when he arrives at her home he's not the only vampire looking for her. No a huge unwanted blast from the past is about to rear it's ugly head!
Sarah is finally on the cusp of helping transplant patients when everything she believed in gets turned on it's head. Vampires are real and one in particular is large and proud and in her living room! So what if he's gorgeous ? He has no right to just kidnap her but the more Sarah learns about Taris and his people the more entwined in their lives she becomes. Is it possible , can her work really help these mythical creatures? Science can explain anything but can it explain just what's happening between Sarah and Taris?
So yes this is the first in this series and I note it's compared by many to a particular vampire series involving a Brotherhood. I dont see any similarities just because several warrior type vampires live together in a mansion. This book has a plot line that was quite unique with it's slant on preserving the vampire race and whilst I'm hesitant to give spoilers I didn't quite buy into the pace of things that happened as the story progressed. It felt quite original with the way the various vampires are portrayed but the "bad guys" were just not my cup of tea. That being said I thought the idea of a tranvestite henchman really added a little something and I thought the violence also felt essential because you know blood, gore and vampires really do kind of go together !
As a romance this didn't really work for me as the couple just seemed a bit too instant . Yes Taris is written as smoking hot but Sarah is referred to as plain and I suppose he could have been wowed by her sexy smart brain but it just all felt too quick and instant. One minute talking, next minute being attacked by a huge angry ( not to mention hungry )vampire and yet Sarah loves him? I missed the chase I guess.
When this ended I was left with questions and I'd really like to know what happens next as the supporting characters are very interesting. A couple who've been torn apart for two hundred years and the possibility of redemption for truly heinous crimes are just some of the things that need addressing. If I had one niggle it would be the disjointed dialogue as occasionally it seemed to jump about a bit and there's scenes that maybe needs more work but that's what good editors are for.
Great potential here and I'm sure many paranormal romance readers will snap this up.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Taris is leader of his clan as the oldest living vampire and refuses to watch those he loves suffer anymore. By chance he learns of groundbreaking research been carried out by a pair of Doctors and sets out to see if the mixed immune system trials could help save his race. Taris is not alone in hearing about Dr Sarah Bridgemans discovery though and when he arrives at her home he's not the only vampire looking for her. No a huge unwanted blast from the past is about to rear it's ugly head!
Sarah is finally on the cusp of helping transplant patients when everything she believed in gets turned on it's head. Vampires are real and one in particular is large and proud and in her living room! So what if he's gorgeous ? He has no right to just kidnap her but the more Sarah learns about Taris and his people the more entwined in their lives she becomes. Is it possible , can her work really help these mythical creatures? Science can explain anything but can it explain just what's happening between Sarah and Taris?
So yes this is the first in this series and I note it's compared by many to a particular vampire series involving a Brotherhood. I dont see any similarities just because several warrior type vampires live together in a mansion. This book has a plot line that was quite unique with it's slant on preserving the vampire race and whilst I'm hesitant to give spoilers I didn't quite buy into the pace of things that happened as the story progressed. It felt quite original with the way the various vampires are portrayed but the "bad guys" were just not my cup of tea. That being said I thought the idea of a tranvestite henchman really added a little something and I thought the violence also felt essential because you know blood, gore and vampires really do kind of go together !
As a romance this didn't really work for me as the couple just seemed a bit too instant . Yes Taris is written as smoking hot but Sarah is referred to as plain and I suppose he could have been wowed by her sexy smart brain but it just all felt too quick and instant. One minute talking, next minute being attacked by a huge angry ( not to mention hungry )vampire and yet Sarah loves him? I missed the chase I guess.
When this ended I was left with questions and I'd really like to know what happens next as the supporting characters are very interesting. A couple who've been torn apart for two hundred years and the possibility of redemption for truly heinous crimes are just some of the things that need addressing. If I had one niggle it would be the disjointed dialogue as occasionally it seemed to jump about a bit and there's scenes that maybe needs more work but that's what good editors are for.
Great potential here and I'm sure many paranormal romance readers will snap this up.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
May 1, 2015
This book is hard for me to rate as there are some things I truly liked and some things which just did not click for me. so let me list some of them:
what I truly liked are the the secondary characters! I really loved them! and maybe they should count as 4 reasons. my favorite was Achan. he is the perfect mixture of alpha, funny but also the voice of reason if the rest need it.
Judah seems so sarcastic and content but during the book we learn a lot about him and how he suffered. My heart broke for him
Rhiannon is somehow the perfect wirlwind of action and reason and has the boys on their leash if there is need
and then there is Zillah, though, funny and strong ... but also broken ...
also the storyline and the plot were good and although some things happened really fast it was enough suspense to grip me throughout the book
the idea of vampires in this book was nothing new but the it was nevertheless well done
and last but not least Sarah and Taris: they were well-done characters and both of them were loyal and caring. Taris is a real hero and I liked him for his ability to show emotions
and now the things which were not so great
the development of the relationship between Taris and Sarah ... I was really missing the falling in love. yes, there was a spark and some chemistry but the feelings were like "puff and here you are". don't get me wrong, I normally don't have anything against mates and love at first sight but it has to be explained somehow. here it was just ...one moment not here, than it was there.
what really got to me that all the big bad warriors just let them get surprised that way ... that was just sloppy and did not really fit in with the rest we knew about them
I am not so sure about Bane: I kind of felt for him and in the end he had my compassion
another thing which annoyed me a bit was, that in the end, I could not really be happy for the HEA and that is kind of a sad thing for a PR. there was so much going on, which broke my heart that the HEA was kind of secondary.
Nevertheless, this was a good first book in a new series and I am sure to read the next book!
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
what I truly liked are the the secondary characters! I really loved them! and maybe they should count as 4 reasons. my favorite was Achan. he is the perfect mixture of alpha, funny but also the voice of reason if the rest need it.
Judah seems so sarcastic and content but during the book we learn a lot about him and how he suffered. My heart broke for him
Rhiannon is somehow the perfect wirlwind of action and reason and has the boys on their leash if there is need
and then there is Zillah, though, funny and strong ... but also broken ...
also the storyline and the plot were good and although some things happened really fast it was enough suspense to grip me throughout the book
the idea of vampires in this book was nothing new but the it was nevertheless well done
and last but not least Sarah and Taris: they were well-done characters and both of them were loyal and caring. Taris is a real hero and I liked him for his ability to show emotions
and now the things which were not so great
the development of the relationship between Taris and Sarah ... I was really missing the falling in love. yes, there was a spark and some chemistry but the feelings were like "puff and here you are". don't get me wrong, I normally don't have anything against mates and love at first sight but it has to be explained somehow. here it was just ...one moment not here, than it was there.
what really got to me that all the big bad warriors just let them get surprised that way ... that was just sloppy and did not really fit in with the rest we knew about them
I am not so sure about Bane: I kind of felt for him and in the end he had my compassion
another thing which annoyed me a bit was, that in the end, I could not really be happy for the HEA and that is kind of a sad thing for a PR. there was so much going on, which broke my heart that the HEA was kind of secondary.
Nevertheless, this was a good first book in a new series and I am sure to read the next book!
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 1, 2015
I really enjoyed the first third of this book. The premise was cool and the set-up, engaging. AD Marrow does a great job introducing these characters and building their world. I was invested in them almost immediately. I liked the heroine’s intellect and short temper. I liked the hero’s emotional investment in the human girl his sister adopted. Heck, even the villain was interesting. How many sadistic, muscle bound transvestite killers do you find in PNR? I was practically patting myself on the back for picking up this book… until it started trying to be a romance. And that is when it all fell apart.
The vampire race is dwindling. They can no longer reproduce or turn humans into one of their kind. What once was a natural process, now kills those people who attempt conversion. As the leader of his people, Taris is determined to find a solution to the problem. Unfortunately, his enemies are on the same quest. Both camps set their sights on Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, when she makes an appearance on a talk show, discussing her groundbreaking research on overcoming organ rejection. Her theories could very well apply to the rejection of vampire blood in humans, so Taris sets out to bring her around to his cause.
He makes it just in time to stop his evil transvestite brother Bane from snatching her himself. So his plans of a gentle introduction kind of go out the window. But his sister Kalin helps build bridges with Sarah were he can’t. (It doesn’t help, of course, that he is undeniably attracted to the good doctor from the moment he lays eyes on her.) Sarah –and we, as readers– come to know Taris’s brothers and sisters in arms, also known as the Nine, who help protect the vampire race, each while dealing with their own problems, borne through centuries of life.
It’s all good up to the point where the hero and heroine decide they are in love with each other in a couple of days. Epic, soul deep love. In a couple. Of. Days. It takes all the great stuff from the first half and just craps all over it. There is absolutely no emotional investment in this relationship. They’re hot for each other and then they’re in love because –poof– they just are. It only gets worse when the author introduces a secondary romance between Kalin and Sarah’s research partner, Nick. They fall in love in a couple of hours, off page, then get married and presumably pregnant the very next day.
That’s not romance. That’s stupid.
And it’s such a shame because the first half was good. And some of the characters are really interesting. Like Bane. Like the twist with Achan, which I totally didn’t see coming. But I could barely force myself to finish the book, wading through the growling and the possessive insta-love nonsense. I couldn’t even take Taris or Sarah seriously after all of that, which made it very hard to care what happened to them.
Such a waste of potential.
*ARC provided by publisher
The vampire race is dwindling. They can no longer reproduce or turn humans into one of their kind. What once was a natural process, now kills those people who attempt conversion. As the leader of his people, Taris is determined to find a solution to the problem. Unfortunately, his enemies are on the same quest. Both camps set their sights on Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, when she makes an appearance on a talk show, discussing her groundbreaking research on overcoming organ rejection. Her theories could very well apply to the rejection of vampire blood in humans, so Taris sets out to bring her around to his cause.
He makes it just in time to stop his evil transvestite brother Bane from snatching her himself. So his plans of a gentle introduction kind of go out the window. But his sister Kalin helps build bridges with Sarah were he can’t. (It doesn’t help, of course, that he is undeniably attracted to the good doctor from the moment he lays eyes on her.) Sarah –and we, as readers– come to know Taris’s brothers and sisters in arms, also known as the Nine, who help protect the vampire race, each while dealing with their own problems, borne through centuries of life.
It’s all good up to the point where the hero and heroine decide they are in love with each other in a couple of days. Epic, soul deep love. In a couple. Of. Days. It takes all the great stuff from the first half and just craps all over it. There is absolutely no emotional investment in this relationship. They’re hot for each other and then they’re in love because –poof– they just are. It only gets worse when the author introduces a secondary romance between Kalin and Sarah’s research partner, Nick. They fall in love in a couple of hours, off page, then get married and presumably pregnant the very next day.
That’s not romance. That’s stupid.
And it’s such a shame because the first half was good. And some of the characters are really interesting. Like Bane. Like the twist with Achan, which I totally didn’t see coming. But I could barely force myself to finish the book, wading through the growling and the possessive insta-love nonsense. I couldn’t even take Taris or Sarah seriously after all of that, which made it very hard to care what happened to them.
Such a waste of potential.
*ARC provided by publisher
May 6, 2015
** Chaos of Emotions **
The Nines was a group of nine vampires, formed to protect their race, from both humans and out of controlled vampires. But jealousy and betrayal happens within the group, and The Nines are no longer. After a few hundred years, the human blood changes, which sends the entire vampire race on the verge extinction. As one of the oldest vampires and former leader of The Nines, Taris, rushes to find a cure.
Dr. Sarah Bridgeman and her partner discover a medical cure, that was intended to save humans, and may now be the only thing that can also save the vampires. With this knowledge and possible cure, Sarah's life is now in danger, because Taris isn't the only vampire that wants that cure.
Welcome to A.D. Marrow's world of vampires. Her creativity of this vampire world gives different twist to the vampire folklore, that is refreshing and unique. It's a perfect blend of Dracula with a small squeeze of the Twilight Saga.
There is a lot going on in this first installment of Order of the Nines. A.D. Marrow introduces all of her characters and for some, gives us some of their back story. So while Chaos and Moonlight is primarily about Taris and Sarah, is seems as if A.D. setting us up for the next installment of this series.
Chaos and Moonlight will have you riding a roller coaster of emotions. I went from laughing, to needed a tissue from crying, to having chicken skin and the hairs on the back of neck stand up, and the OMG! shock factor. And while I wouldn't say certain scenes are gory, it did make me squirm a bit.
With the squirming factor, A.D. still threw in her sense of humor and her love of other fandoms, in her characters and situations that I've come to love in her stories. I loved being able to recognize and understand the fandom references.
And while this story is based on medical research, A.D. explains everything to where you'd understand all in the end. You may just have to read the chapter or paragraph twice...like I did. And of course there's the vampire biting smexy times that is always fun to read.
Now, I feel like I should give a PSA:
Chaos and Moonlight heavily mentions, and shows domestic violence. And even though I know how Taris was born as a character, I still couldn't fully understand the actions of characters who are stuck in that sort of relationship. But I promise you, if you stick with the story, it'll be ok in the end.
Over all, I honestly enjoyed Chaos and Moonlight It is something different, something refreshing to read.
*~* I was gifted an ARC by the author *~*
The Nines was a group of nine vampires, formed to protect their race, from both humans and out of controlled vampires. But jealousy and betrayal happens within the group, and The Nines are no longer. After a few hundred years, the human blood changes, which sends the entire vampire race on the verge extinction. As one of the oldest vampires and former leader of The Nines, Taris, rushes to find a cure.
Dr. Sarah Bridgeman and her partner discover a medical cure, that was intended to save humans, and may now be the only thing that can also save the vampires. With this knowledge and possible cure, Sarah's life is now in danger, because Taris isn't the only vampire that wants that cure.
Welcome to A.D. Marrow's world of vampires. Her creativity of this vampire world gives different twist to the vampire folklore, that is refreshing and unique. It's a perfect blend of Dracula with a small squeeze of the Twilight Saga.
There is a lot going on in this first installment of Order of the Nines. A.D. Marrow introduces all of her characters and for some, gives us some of their back story. So while Chaos and Moonlight is primarily about Taris and Sarah, is seems as if A.D. setting us up for the next installment of this series.
Chaos and Moonlight will have you riding a roller coaster of emotions. I went from laughing, to needed a tissue from crying, to having chicken skin and the hairs on the back of neck stand up, and the OMG! shock factor. And while I wouldn't say certain scenes are gory, it did make me squirm a bit.
With the squirming factor, A.D. still threw in her sense of humor and her love of other fandoms, in her characters and situations that I've come to love in her stories. I loved being able to recognize and understand the fandom references.
And while this story is based on medical research, A.D. explains everything to where you'd understand all in the end. You may just have to read the chapter or paragraph twice...like I did. And of course there's the vampire biting smexy times that is always fun to read.
Now, I feel like I should give a PSA:
Chaos and Moonlight heavily mentions, and shows domestic violence. And even though I know how Taris was born as a character, I still couldn't fully understand the actions of characters who are stuck in that sort of relationship. But I promise you, if you stick with the story, it'll be ok in the end.
Over all, I honestly enjoyed Chaos and Moonlight It is something different, something refreshing to read.
*~* I was gifted an ARC by the author *~*
March 27, 2015
My Heart is in Chaos...
Chaos and Moonlight is the first book in a new series by A.D. Marrow.
The focus of this story is on a group of vampires called The Nines. They are a group of warrior vampires formed to protect their fellow vampires from any that wish to harm them. However, due to genetic advancements in humans, the existence of their entire race may soon be a thing of the past.
As the former leader of The Nines & an Elder of the Vampire race, Taris is doing everything in his power to ensure the survival of his people. When fate leads him to Dr. Sarah Bridgeman (& her recent medical breakthrough) for the first time in a long time Taris feels hope for his people.
Dr. Sarah Bridgeman is a medical researcher, who along with her partner Dr. Nick Patton, recently made a significant medical breakthrough. Unaware of the existence of vampires, this discovery had unwittingly put her life in danger...but this may just be the cure that Taris & The Nines are looking for! Unfortunately they aren't the only ones searching for a cure.
What follows is a dark story full of emotions, both good & bad. I cried, laughed & cried again. A.D. does a great job injecting small touches of humor throughout the story which helps lighten the seriousness of the subject matter. And let's not forget about the hot & sexy love scenes!
Please don't let my use of the words "dark story" turn you away from this book. Yes, the subject matter is serious & can be difficult to read, but this story is so much more than that. The relationships we witness between the characters are full of love, friendship & support. Taris & The Nines are all Heroes in their own ways.
And while yes, this is a vampire story, they are far from what I consider to be a "typical vampire". I'd compare them to the vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood where they are able to eat & drink just like humans. In fact, if you take away their supernatural strength & need to consume blood on a regular basis, they face the same day to day struggles, situations & temptations that you & I face.
Thank you A.D.Marrow for sharing this story with all of us! I can't wait to read what comes next for The Nines!
**I was gifted an advanced copy by the author**
Chaos and Moonlight is the first book in a new series by A.D. Marrow.
The focus of this story is on a group of vampires called The Nines. They are a group of warrior vampires formed to protect their fellow vampires from any that wish to harm them. However, due to genetic advancements in humans, the existence of their entire race may soon be a thing of the past.
As the former leader of The Nines & an Elder of the Vampire race, Taris is doing everything in his power to ensure the survival of his people. When fate leads him to Dr. Sarah Bridgeman (& her recent medical breakthrough) for the first time in a long time Taris feels hope for his people.
Dr. Sarah Bridgeman is a medical researcher, who along with her partner Dr. Nick Patton, recently made a significant medical breakthrough. Unaware of the existence of vampires, this discovery had unwittingly put her life in danger...but this may just be the cure that Taris & The Nines are looking for! Unfortunately they aren't the only ones searching for a cure.
What follows is a dark story full of emotions, both good & bad. I cried, laughed & cried again. A.D. does a great job injecting small touches of humor throughout the story which helps lighten the seriousness of the subject matter. And let's not forget about the hot & sexy love scenes!
Please don't let my use of the words "dark story" turn you away from this book. Yes, the subject matter is serious & can be difficult to read, but this story is so much more than that. The relationships we witness between the characters are full of love, friendship & support. Taris & The Nines are all Heroes in their own ways.
And while yes, this is a vampire story, they are far from what I consider to be a "typical vampire". I'd compare them to the vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood where they are able to eat & drink just like humans. In fact, if you take away their supernatural strength & need to consume blood on a regular basis, they face the same day to day struggles, situations & temptations that you & I face.
Thank you A.D.Marrow for sharing this story with all of us! I can't wait to read what comes next for The Nines!
**I was gifted an advanced copy by the author**
June 5, 2015
Good idea but....
From the synopsis this sounded like a book I should love but unfortunately in the end it just didn't work for me.
I can appreciate how difficult it must be to write a new series, introduce all the characters, build in a romance, have a story interesting enough to hold it all together and a lead to the next book, so not easy and I find no pleasure in writing a negative review but there's no point at all in writing a review if I'm not going to be honest, so here goes...
The main problem I think was this book tried too hard to be too many things and it ended up being confusing at times which isn't helped by the editing, chunks of text are missing, I read and re-read certain parts just trying to make sense of it. There's also too many characters which take the attention away from the main couple to the extend where it's hard at times to work out who's book this is.
While the basic story was interesting in itself I needed more but the whole book seemed very childish to me, the first clue came in the first chapter when the 'baddie' Morrigan proved that with age doesn't come wisdom, she was your typical cartoon villain but it wasn't only her scenes I found cringeworthy. I can honestly say if I'd downloaded this as a sample I would have stopped at this point but since I'd requested this from NetGalley so therefore had to write a review I continued on.
Not only did I not connect with any of the characters but It never managed to fully hold my attention and after the first chapter I found myself skimming, I kept trying to pull myself back but I just couldn't and ultimately I really struggled to reach the end of this book.
ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 1, 2015
Wow! what a great book. I am probably one of the biggest fans of paranormal romances and with all of the paranormal books out there about vampires, it's a really tough competition. But this one comes at you from a new angle.
In most books the vamps are portrayed as soulless, burdened with pasts filled with bloodlust, damned to roam the earth for the rest of their days. But A.D. Marrow shows them off as creations of God, just above the humans on the the foodchain yes but not invincible. With the same emotional needs for love and family as humans, longer lifespans but not indestructible. They get hurt the same, love the same, want children the same, are betrayed by loved ones the same. I loved the whole naturalness of the species. Being mutually beneficial to the other, coexisting.
And as with humans, where there are good guys, there are bad guys. Some hardened, indifferent, sadistic to perfection and there are some who can feel guilt and remorse, who can acknowledge their past sins and who are looking to redeem themselves.
This series has started off with a bang and I for one am hooked. I mean deep, deep hooks. So I shall be bouncing on the edge of my reading chair, waiting as patiently as possible until the second book in the series is released.
Free copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
In most books the vamps are portrayed as soulless, burdened with pasts filled with bloodlust, damned to roam the earth for the rest of their days. But A.D. Marrow shows them off as creations of God, just above the humans on the the foodchain yes but not invincible. With the same emotional needs for love and family as humans, longer lifespans but not indestructible. They get hurt the same, love the same, want children the same, are betrayed by loved ones the same. I loved the whole naturalness of the species. Being mutually beneficial to the other, coexisting.
And as with humans, where there are good guys, there are bad guys. Some hardened, indifferent, sadistic to perfection and there are some who can feel guilt and remorse, who can acknowledge their past sins and who are looking to redeem themselves.
This series has started off with a bang and I for one am hooked. I mean deep, deep hooks. So I shall be bouncing on the edge of my reading chair, waiting as patiently as possible until the second book in the series is released.
Free copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2015
Chaos and Moonlight is the first book in the Order of the Nines series. Not a bad start really, but it does suffer from first-in-a-series-itis. There is a lot going on in this book. Waaaaay too much for one measly little old book in my opinion, but still not a horrid start, just an awkward one at times.
Let me walk you through the somewhat sketchy and confusing plot. The vampire race was dying out from the inability to procreate. The women were no longer conceiving because the mothers were rejecting the fetuses and the people who were turned weren’t making it through the process because their bodies were rejecting the vampire blood resulting in death. They desperately needed a cure. There was a group of vampires called The Order of the Nines that was tasked with the protection of the Vampire Race. Here’s where some of that sketchy comes in. The Nines were a fractured mess, and we never get a complete picture of why. Occasional glimpses are given but at the end of the book, they were even more of a mess, and the history of why still wasn’t complete.
Taris is the oldest living vampire and he is the leader of the Nines plus possibly the leader of what’s left of the vampire race but that wasn’t really clear. His people should be on the endangered species list, he’s just lost someone close to the family and he’s a morose and grumpy mess. He sees a disastrous TV interview of a scientist, Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, who’s had a breakthrough on the organ rejection front and Taris thinks this may well be the answer to his problem. He waits for things to die down (it really was a disaster of an interview) and heads out to get his scientist. Of course the ultra evil bad guys have the same idea. He gets his scientist but it wasn’t pretty at all – well she was, she pushed all his buttons, but the kidnapping/rescue was a disaster and Sarah is pissed, and slightly turned on.
I would love to say that I loved Taris and Sarah, but I think the world building and the set ups for future books meant less character development for our H and h. There was just so much extra stuff going on, it felt like they took a backseat to everything and everyone else. There was a side romance that probably should have had its own book, and lots of back story of the other characters. Unfortunately I didn’t connect as well as I should have with Taris and Sarah. This was disappointing to me since I think I really could have loved them….if only. They also bickered like small children. At one point I was picturing one of them saying “nanny nanny foo foo” in my head.
The bad guys were unbelievably evil. I mean maiming and mayhem evil. My issue was that we were shown over and over again how evil they were, but not what their motivations were. We knew who Bane was, but we didn’t know how he ended up with Morrigan (the super evil villian/sex freak) or why he wore garish makeup. You got hints of convoluted and messed up history, but you never got the whole story making this a somewhat frustrating read.
There were good parts that made the story an okay read, I just don’t like feeling unnecessarily confused while I’m reading a book. I’m not opposed to reading the next book in the series when it comes out, I just hope there’s more storytelling and less set up going on.
Laurie’s Rating: A somewhat confused 3 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For this review and more like it, visit http://edgyreviews.com
Let me walk you through the somewhat sketchy and confusing plot. The vampire race was dying out from the inability to procreate. The women were no longer conceiving because the mothers were rejecting the fetuses and the people who were turned weren’t making it through the process because their bodies were rejecting the vampire blood resulting in death. They desperately needed a cure. There was a group of vampires called The Order of the Nines that was tasked with the protection of the Vampire Race. Here’s where some of that sketchy comes in. The Nines were a fractured mess, and we never get a complete picture of why. Occasional glimpses are given but at the end of the book, they were even more of a mess, and the history of why still wasn’t complete.
Taris is the oldest living vampire and he is the leader of the Nines plus possibly the leader of what’s left of the vampire race but that wasn’t really clear. His people should be on the endangered species list, he’s just lost someone close to the family and he’s a morose and grumpy mess. He sees a disastrous TV interview of a scientist, Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, who’s had a breakthrough on the organ rejection front and Taris thinks this may well be the answer to his problem. He waits for things to die down (it really was a disaster of an interview) and heads out to get his scientist. Of course the ultra evil bad guys have the same idea. He gets his scientist but it wasn’t pretty at all – well she was, she pushed all his buttons, but the kidnapping/rescue was a disaster and Sarah is pissed, and slightly turned on.
Pissed off was not the correct term to describe how she felt. Violated, abused, and used all came to mind. But wanted, desired, and needed stomped them down into a puddle of mud, and it infuriated her that from the whole experience, that’s what she took away from it.
I would love to say that I loved Taris and Sarah, but I think the world building and the set ups for future books meant less character development for our H and h. There was just so much extra stuff going on, it felt like they took a backseat to everything and everyone else. There was a side romance that probably should have had its own book, and lots of back story of the other characters. Unfortunately I didn’t connect as well as I should have with Taris and Sarah. This was disappointing to me since I think I really could have loved them….if only. They also bickered like small children. At one point I was picturing one of them saying “nanny nanny foo foo” in my head.
“When we are done eating, I am taking you somewhere.” “Somewhere away from you, I hope,” she mumbled to herself. It wasn’t quite low enough to where he couldn’t hear her. His eyebrows raised a little, and he shook his head as he focused on slicing the meat. “God, I wish,” he mumbled right back.
The bad guys were unbelievably evil. I mean maiming and mayhem evil. My issue was that we were shown over and over again how evil they were, but not what their motivations were. We knew who Bane was, but we didn’t know how he ended up with Morrigan (the super evil villian/sex freak) or why he wore garish makeup. You got hints of convoluted and messed up history, but you never got the whole story making this a somewhat frustrating read.
There were good parts that made the story an okay read, I just don’t like feeling unnecessarily confused while I’m reading a book. I’m not opposed to reading the next book in the series when it comes out, I just hope there’s more storytelling and less set up going on.
Laurie’s Rating: A somewhat confused 3 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For this review and more like it, visit http://edgyreviews.com
December 3, 2024
CHAOS AND MOONLIGHT is my first surprise read of 2016. From page 1, this book grabbed and held my attention. Honestly, it's not a uniquely different vampire tale. Some of the characteristics will be familiar to readers of vampire-focused PNR. In this world where vampires were born, not simply made, the species is dying out and they are on the hunt for a way to save it.
The Order of the Nines was formed about four hundred years ago to protect vampires from those who hunt them. At the time, there were nine in the order, hence the name. Now, however, only five remain - Taris (this book's hero), Judah, Achan, Zillah and Rhiannon.
Throughout this installment, we are introduced to each of the remaining Nine, as well as Taris' sister, Kalin and their brother Bane. To say Bane has lost his way and is part of a bad marriage would be a huge understatement. Kalin longs to have a child of her own. Taris is the oldest living vampire and as such has become more of a leader than a fighter. They have all suffered, yet find hope in Sarah's discovery. Now, they need to convince her vampires exist and get her to agree to help them.
I instantly liked all of the characters in this installment and look forward to learning even more about them in future installments. A sneak preview of the second book, MAYHEM SONATA, was provided, however its 2 Dec 2015 release date has come and gone. I'm hopeful it'll be released sometime soon. The two-chapter preview can also be found on the author's website.
Overall, it was the writing that stood out for me. I read the book in one day and would've read it one sitting if life hadn't interrupted my reading time. This is my first time reading a book written by A.D. Marrow and I'm already anxious for more. [Rating: ✮✮✮✮½]
In the author's note, Marrow shares that she's a survivor of domestic violence and warns of possible triggers for those in a similar situation. I was touched by her share and note that states, "Domestic violence is a monster that will only be eradicated if we chose to end our silence. Love should not hurt and no human being has the right to harm another."
Their race was now so diluted with human blood that it was impossible for them to procreate. And with the evolution of the human immune system over the last two hundred or so years, it was proving to be fatal even to attempt to turn one.Dr. Sarah Bridgeman and her research partner, Dr. Nick Patton, have been working on the Chimera Project for the past three years. Their discovery increases the chances of transplant organ success. A bonus, for vampires, it also allows for "mixed immune systems as well as mixed DNA", which may just be their last, best hope for saving their race.
The Order of the Nines was formed about four hundred years ago to protect vampires from those who hunt them. At the time, there were nine in the order, hence the name. Now, however, only five remain - Taris (this book's hero), Judah, Achan, Zillah and Rhiannon.
Throughout this installment, we are introduced to each of the remaining Nine, as well as Taris' sister, Kalin and their brother Bane. To say Bane has lost his way and is part of a bad marriage would be a huge understatement. Kalin longs to have a child of her own. Taris is the oldest living vampire and as such has become more of a leader than a fighter. They have all suffered, yet find hope in Sarah's discovery. Now, they need to convince her vampires exist and get her to agree to help them.
I instantly liked all of the characters in this installment and look forward to learning even more about them in future installments. A sneak preview of the second book, MAYHEM SONATA, was provided, however its 2 Dec 2015 release date has come and gone. I'm hopeful it'll be released sometime soon. The two-chapter preview can also be found on the author's website.
Overall, it was the writing that stood out for me. I read the book in one day and would've read it one sitting if life hadn't interrupted my reading time. This is my first time reading a book written by A.D. Marrow and I'm already anxious for more. [Rating: ✮✮✮✮½]
In the author's note, Marrow shares that she's a survivor of domestic violence and warns of possible triggers for those in a similar situation. I was touched by her share and note that states, "Domestic violence is a monster that will only be eradicated if we chose to end our silence. Love should not hurt and no human being has the right to harm another."
May 21, 2015
This review is also available here: https://fangirlsreaditfirst.wordpress...
I would like to thank author A.D. Marrow and Bewitching Book Tours for giving me the opportunity to read and review Chaos and Moonlight.
Taris’s people are dying. As he mourns another dead member of his vampire people all he wants is to figure out a way to save them. He is a member of The Nine, elite vampires that have sworn to protect their race. But he can offer little protection against extinction. Then he sees Dr. Sarah Bridgeman on national television describing her new medical breakthrough. He believes her research could also save his people. He goes on a mission to find her and ask for her help. But several outcast vampires are out to get Sarah too, and Taris must choose to kidnap her to save her life.
Taris has lived for 800 hundred years. During that time he’s endured love, heartache, betrayal and death. It has made him grow as a man and as a vampire. Members of The Nine have disbanded and those remaining live with him. Most of The Nine have gone through terrible loss and suffering. He is fiercely protective of each one, including his damaged sister. He is smart, loyal, and brave. And he would die to protect the ones he loves. Taris knows he needs Sarah’s help but he didn’t expect to care for her from the first moment he saw her.
Sarah is spunky, brilliant, honest and loving. When the reporter gives her attitude during her interview she confronts her right back on air. She keeps her wits about her even while being shot at and kidnapped. She offers Taris and his sister money in exchange for letting her go, never believing that they only want her help. She scoffs when they tell her about vampires until Taris goes to great lengths to prove it to her. Her qualities are similar to Taris’s because she is also protective, loyal and would die for the ones she loves.
Chaos and Moonlight had many scenes of tense, dangerous action and adventure but it was a romance at its core. The romance was slow to develop between Sarah and Taris. However, as a reader, I found that more believable since they were going from one adrenaline rush after another all the time. Once they could catch their breath, the romance became passionately epic as they began to fall for each other.
This novel had a host of delightful main and side characters, all of which I absolutely adored. Other relationships and dramas were introduced, featuring Taris’s crew, to set up more books in this series.
Chaos and Moonlight is appropriate for adult readers.
I would like to thank author A.D. Marrow and Bewitching Book Tours for giving me the opportunity to read and review Chaos and Moonlight.
Taris’s people are dying. As he mourns another dead member of his vampire people all he wants is to figure out a way to save them. He is a member of The Nine, elite vampires that have sworn to protect their race. But he can offer little protection against extinction. Then he sees Dr. Sarah Bridgeman on national television describing her new medical breakthrough. He believes her research could also save his people. He goes on a mission to find her and ask for her help. But several outcast vampires are out to get Sarah too, and Taris must choose to kidnap her to save her life.
Taris has lived for 800 hundred years. During that time he’s endured love, heartache, betrayal and death. It has made him grow as a man and as a vampire. Members of The Nine have disbanded and those remaining live with him. Most of The Nine have gone through terrible loss and suffering. He is fiercely protective of each one, including his damaged sister. He is smart, loyal, and brave. And he would die to protect the ones he loves. Taris knows he needs Sarah’s help but he didn’t expect to care for her from the first moment he saw her.
Sarah is spunky, brilliant, honest and loving. When the reporter gives her attitude during her interview she confronts her right back on air. She keeps her wits about her even while being shot at and kidnapped. She offers Taris and his sister money in exchange for letting her go, never believing that they only want her help. She scoffs when they tell her about vampires until Taris goes to great lengths to prove it to her. Her qualities are similar to Taris’s because she is also protective, loyal and would die for the ones she loves.
Chaos and Moonlight had many scenes of tense, dangerous action and adventure but it was a romance at its core. The romance was slow to develop between Sarah and Taris. However, as a reader, I found that more believable since they were going from one adrenaline rush after another all the time. Once they could catch their breath, the romance became passionately epic as they began to fall for each other.
This novel had a host of delightful main and side characters, all of which I absolutely adored. Other relationships and dramas were introduced, featuring Taris’s crew, to set up more books in this series.
Chaos and Moonlight is appropriate for adult readers.
April 8, 2015
At first glance, you might think that Chaos and Moonlight is a vampire paranormal romance. And you would be correct. But that is like saying that 1990 Dom is fizzy grape juice. The author, AD Marrow, uses her tribe of vampires to explore themes like family loyalty, domestic abuse, genetic research, and love and forgiveness. Issues very much in the news lately and to which we all can relate. So while this book is a very enjoyable read, it will also take you deeper and make you think.
Taris is the leader of the dying race of vampires. Centuries of interbreeding with humans has rendered their females unable to bring a pregnancy to term, due to vampire blood rejecting the human’s. He is about to give up, thinking his people will cease to exist, when he comes across Sarah, a human research doctor, who has possibly found a method to stop organ rejection that might also save the vampires. Unfortunately, while all vampires might want a cure, there are some who don’t care how many humans they have to hurt to get it. The vampire Morrigan is one of those vampires. She has left a path of blood and death in her quest to create more vampires and subjugate humans.
This first book in the series follows Taris and Sarah as they fall in love while they race the clock looking for a cure and try to stop Morrigan from a deadly takeover. AD Marrow did a great job balancing the world building and character introduction needed when starting a new series, while still giving us a love story that we could invest in. You also start to be teased with the supporting characters stories, and want to see how things will evolve for them. Oh yeah, one of those characters is a cross-dressing, mentally and physically abused vampire. You don’t read that every day.
This is a romance so there are some pretty hot, sexy love scenes. And the author doesn’t shy aware from some tough, abusive situations. But the violence is never gratuitous. It helps us to understand what motivates the actions of the characters.
This is a well-written, sexy, enjoyable, heart-wrenching book. As soon as I finished it, I wanted the next book. This author and series has so many more stories to tell and I am really looking forward to reading them. I highly recommend that you add this book to your e-reader. A great new entry in romance that you don’t want to miss!
( I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Taris is the leader of the dying race of vampires. Centuries of interbreeding with humans has rendered their females unable to bring a pregnancy to term, due to vampire blood rejecting the human’s. He is about to give up, thinking his people will cease to exist, when he comes across Sarah, a human research doctor, who has possibly found a method to stop organ rejection that might also save the vampires. Unfortunately, while all vampires might want a cure, there are some who don’t care how many humans they have to hurt to get it. The vampire Morrigan is one of those vampires. She has left a path of blood and death in her quest to create more vampires and subjugate humans.
This first book in the series follows Taris and Sarah as they fall in love while they race the clock looking for a cure and try to stop Morrigan from a deadly takeover. AD Marrow did a great job balancing the world building and character introduction needed when starting a new series, while still giving us a love story that we could invest in. You also start to be teased with the supporting characters stories, and want to see how things will evolve for them. Oh yeah, one of those characters is a cross-dressing, mentally and physically abused vampire. You don’t read that every day.
This is a romance so there are some pretty hot, sexy love scenes. And the author doesn’t shy aware from some tough, abusive situations. But the violence is never gratuitous. It helps us to understand what motivates the actions of the characters.
This is a well-written, sexy, enjoyable, heart-wrenching book. As soon as I finished it, I wanted the next book. This author and series has so many more stories to tell and I am really looking forward to reading them. I highly recommend that you add this book to your e-reader. A great new entry in romance that you don’t want to miss!
( I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
June 25, 2015
From the first word this book gripped me by the heart and dragged me into its world and I could not leave until it was over. Even then I didn’t want to go. I had to reread this book, often going back to my favorite scenes to continue on, savoring every part as it seeped into my soul to become a part of me.
Often as readers there will be a moment in a book where we make a connection with a character or their reality. Most of the time this connection is positive. Occasionally, it is so strong that the connection between the characters and ourselves is a real bond that is cemented with each step they take and each word they utter. Even as we watch them make mistakes that cause us to cringe, or hear them think (or worse) SAY stupid things that make us laugh or utter those words of love and devotion that make us sigh and wish desperately we were the one they were speaking to, the connection is there. This world, their world seems as real in our heads as the one outside our doors. And as real in our hearts because it is someplace we want to be.
Taris is the Vampire King, the head of his family, the leader of the Nine’s and one scary dude; however, he is also one thing that many vampires are not – he is human. Not biologically, of course, but surprisingly and wonderfully, he has retained his humanity. He deeply loves those who matter to him and, for a born 800+ year old vampire, has an amazing depth of compassion for the world around him. He is a complex and endearing man. One you can never forget.
Even as we watch Taris and Sarah connect with each other, through the ensuing chaos and romance and moments of insanity we are treated to glimpses of each of the Nine’s as well as Nick and Bane (BANE!). And each moment reinforces why we never want this story to end; why we never want to leave or lose this world.
This is the fourth work I have had the pleasure of reading from this amazingly talented author. In each she has given me joy and sorrow, laughter and regret and shown me the infinite definitions of love, courage, sacrifice, honor and family. And the ending of the book is that perfect moment when all of us – character and reader – are satisfied that life has settled for the moment and whatever the future holds, together we will meet it.
Often as readers there will be a moment in a book where we make a connection with a character or their reality. Most of the time this connection is positive. Occasionally, it is so strong that the connection between the characters and ourselves is a real bond that is cemented with each step they take and each word they utter. Even as we watch them make mistakes that cause us to cringe, or hear them think (or worse) SAY stupid things that make us laugh or utter those words of love and devotion that make us sigh and wish desperately we were the one they were speaking to, the connection is there. This world, their world seems as real in our heads as the one outside our doors. And as real in our hearts because it is someplace we want to be.
Taris is the Vampire King, the head of his family, the leader of the Nine’s and one scary dude; however, he is also one thing that many vampires are not – he is human. Not biologically, of course, but surprisingly and wonderfully, he has retained his humanity. He deeply loves those who matter to him and, for a born 800+ year old vampire, has an amazing depth of compassion for the world around him. He is a complex and endearing man. One you can never forget.
Even as we watch Taris and Sarah connect with each other, through the ensuing chaos and romance and moments of insanity we are treated to glimpses of each of the Nine’s as well as Nick and Bane (BANE!). And each moment reinforces why we never want this story to end; why we never want to leave or lose this world.
This is the fourth work I have had the pleasure of reading from this amazingly talented author. In each she has given me joy and sorrow, laughter and regret and shown me the infinite definitions of love, courage, sacrifice, honor and family. And the ending of the book is that perfect moment when all of us – character and reader – are satisfied that life has settled for the moment and whatever the future holds, together we will meet it.
March 24, 2015
I am almost speechless after reading Chaos and Moonlight. Anyone who knows me can attest that is saying a lot. AD very graciously gave me an early copy of this book and holy hell! I was engrossed from word one and absolutely loved it.
This is a dark story, full of unique characters and is anything but your typical vampire book. Taris is impossible not to love, and the other members of the Order of the Nines leave you wanting to know their stories as well (hopefully to be coming soon, rather than later).
Knowing AD, and the personal story behind Taris and this book, I can safely say she tells this story perfectly. I cannot wait to read more about Taris and the rest of the Order!
This is a dark story, full of unique characters and is anything but your typical vampire book. Taris is impossible not to love, and the other members of the Order of the Nines leave you wanting to know their stories as well (hopefully to be coming soon, rather than later).
Knowing AD, and the personal story behind Taris and this book, I can safely say she tells this story perfectly. I cannot wait to read more about Taris and the rest of the Order!
April 28, 2015
Taris is a tortured man, and he can be quite broody I fell in love with him though he sometimes just spits things out because he doesn't know how to say things, "because I want to touch you, Sarah, and by that I don’t mean just lying in this bed and holding you.” Other times he has no problems saying what he wants, "his fingers tightened in her hair just enough to tease her with a lick of pain. “I’m about to eff you until you can’t stand, and I’m going to bite you while I do it." I liked this book I'm looking forward to the other characters getting a book of their own
April 19, 2015
This novel, first in a new series, has unforgettable romance, laughter and cringe-worthy violence. Did I mention Vampires? The action starts on the first page, and I think I was holding my breath for the last few. If you enjoy paranormal, vampires and big alpha heroes, you'll enjoy this story. Even if you don't like paranormal.....this is a must-read. Full review to follow...........
May 10, 2015
3.5 stars.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I can't wait for J & Z's story.
The only downer for me was the whole insta love thing - well it was insta passion really, a nice progression would have been my preference. On the whole a solid book with very strong and interesting secondary characters.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I can't wait for J & Z's story.
The only downer for me was the whole insta love thing - well it was insta passion really, a nice progression would have been my preference. On the whole a solid book with very strong and interesting secondary characters.
May 8, 2015
Amazing!!! This new series in the PNR world is going to make waves. Well written story, relatable characters and twists and turns you can't resist. Winner, winner, winner!
October 22, 2015
* Actual rating: 3.5 stars
* Originally published on book blog WillReadforFeels.com
* I received this book for free from Bewitching Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I love it when an author takes a tired old trope and turns it on its ear. This is exactly what A.D. Marrow has done in her debut novel, Chaos and Moonlight, the first book in her Order of the Nines series.
In this world, vampires are a species that has has existed just as long as humans have, but while they’re technically at the top of the food chain and very long-lived, they also have been unable to reproduce in over three centuries. This is not just in terms of birthing their own children, but in terms of turning humans into vampires, as human DNA has evolved to reject vampire blood cells, resulting in death any time a vampire tries to turn a human. Thus, our fanged friends face the very real possibility of extinction.
Taris, the eldest living vampire, has taken it upon himself to find a solution to the problem the vampire race faces. He finds Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, whose work finding a serum to block the rejection of donated organs in humans may well be the key to keeping vampires from dying out. So the future of his entire species rests in her hands. There’s just one problem—he can’t seem to keep his hands off her.
All right, that isn’t the only problem. Some vampires bent on world domination are after the cure too, and they’re willing to steal, torture, and murder in order to get it—get Sarah. So while Taris and his friends work to keep Sarah safe, Sarah must work on finding the cure—and decide whether to give in to the attraction that has sparks flying between her and the 800-year-old vampire.
I really enjoyed the world-building in this novel. It was a unique take on vampires, and while the whole world-domination type of villainy is often overused, I liked that the one thing preventing them from gaining ground is the fact that they’re pretty much an endangered species. I really enjoyed the scientific approach the author took toward vampirism, which I’ve seen many do without going into the nitty gritty of DNA and the like, so it was fun to have the medicine laid out for me. Whether the medicine was well-researched or not, I have no idea and don’t particularly care—it sounded like it might be, so I was sold.
I also found myself buying into the Order of the Nines. While I might have liked to see deeper character development and more relationship tension and growth between the main characters, I could see the difficulty the author must have had to struggle with on this point as this was done alongside the introduction of an ensemble cast of characters. I am excited to see what happens in future books, and particularly keen to learn the fates of Jonah, Zillah, Rhiannon, and Stellan (in that order).
I guess the one thing that kept me from giving this book a full four stars was the prose. There was a bit more showing than telling than I would like, and there were patches where the prose seemed, well, quite purple, and others where the flow of the language was a bit clunky. But these are not unfixable ills, and they aren’t enough to keep me from wanting to pick up the next volume in the series, as with this as a first novel, I’m sure the author will only churn out better and better reads as she gains experience and confidence in her craft.
* Originally published on book blog WillReadforFeels.com
* I received this book for free from Bewitching Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I love it when an author takes a tired old trope and turns it on its ear. This is exactly what A.D. Marrow has done in her debut novel, Chaos and Moonlight, the first book in her Order of the Nines series.
In this world, vampires are a species that has has existed just as long as humans have, but while they’re technically at the top of the food chain and very long-lived, they also have been unable to reproduce in over three centuries. This is not just in terms of birthing their own children, but in terms of turning humans into vampires, as human DNA has evolved to reject vampire blood cells, resulting in death any time a vampire tries to turn a human. Thus, our fanged friends face the very real possibility of extinction.
Taris, the eldest living vampire, has taken it upon himself to find a solution to the problem the vampire race faces. He finds Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, whose work finding a serum to block the rejection of donated organs in humans may well be the key to keeping vampires from dying out. So the future of his entire species rests in her hands. There’s just one problem—he can’t seem to keep his hands off her.
All right, that isn’t the only problem. Some vampires bent on world domination are after the cure too, and they’re willing to steal, torture, and murder in order to get it—get Sarah. So while Taris and his friends work to keep Sarah safe, Sarah must work on finding the cure—and decide whether to give in to the attraction that has sparks flying between her and the 800-year-old vampire.
I really enjoyed the world-building in this novel. It was a unique take on vampires, and while the whole world-domination type of villainy is often overused, I liked that the one thing preventing them from gaining ground is the fact that they’re pretty much an endangered species. I really enjoyed the scientific approach the author took toward vampirism, which I’ve seen many do without going into the nitty gritty of DNA and the like, so it was fun to have the medicine laid out for me. Whether the medicine was well-researched or not, I have no idea and don’t particularly care—it sounded like it might be, so I was sold.
I also found myself buying into the Order of the Nines. While I might have liked to see deeper character development and more relationship tension and growth between the main characters, I could see the difficulty the author must have had to struggle with on this point as this was done alongside the introduction of an ensemble cast of characters. I am excited to see what happens in future books, and particularly keen to learn the fates of Jonah, Zillah, Rhiannon, and Stellan (in that order).
I guess the one thing that kept me from giving this book a full four stars was the prose. There was a bit more showing than telling than I would like, and there were patches where the prose seemed, well, quite purple, and others where the flow of the language was a bit clunky. But these are not unfixable ills, and they aren’t enough to keep me from wanting to pick up the next volume in the series, as with this as a first novel, I’m sure the author will only churn out better and better reads as she gains experience and confidence in her craft.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I have loved and read about vampires for decades now. I have my favorite authors and series. So let me tell you upfront it takes an exceptional vampire story to earn a 5 star review from me… reserved usually for only my most cherished series and authors. I have just added a new auto-buy to that list with this very first novel in the Order of the Nines series by A. D. Marrow. Chaos and Moonlight offers absolutely everything I need in a really great vampire novel – and then some. Oh, it will not unseat my ultimate favorite vampire series, but it is looking to become my third favorite (hey, long term relationships count, ya know?) – and that, my friend, is saying a lot.
Vampires live among us, have no doubt about that fact. But their race is dying out. Females no longer able to bring their pregnancies to a full term. It is a heartbreaking situation on so many levels. Vampires and humans have crossed over into each other’s lives so much now that the interbreeding of both races seems to be leading to the death of the vampire race.
It’s possible that the research into a solution to transplant rejection might hold the answers that the vampire race so desperately needs.
Taris is the oldest living vampire and the leader of The Nines. By chance he sees an interview done with Doctor Sarah Bridgeman about a breakthrough in transplant rejection research that will possibly change the lives of thousands of transplant recipients worldwide. It is possible that it could also save an entire race of vampires. But she doesn’t know that, yet.
There is a balance in life and death. While Taris and The Nines represents the good, there is Morrigan who represents the worst of the vampire race. Determined to take over the human race, placing the vampires at the top of the chain of command of this planet, Morrigan will destroy as many humans as she possibly can in that quest. One of her priorities is Dr. Sarah Bridgeman and her possible cure.
Taris and Sarah meet when he (in his opinion) rescues her from the threat of Morrigan or when she is kidnapped (in her view) by Taris. No matter which view you take it is unmistakeable that sparks of all kinds start from their very first moments together.
And there you have the basics – and I wouldn’t dream of spoiling your enjoyment of the story by telling you much more.
This was an introduction novel into the unique world of the vampires of The Nines and the humans they will encounter and perhaps bring into their world. We meet some of the characters that will most likely be in future books. We also learn that this group of vampires faces not only their own unique challenges but also the same challenges that any of us living in this modern world also do. I was delighted to find many of those challenges within Chaos and Midnight. It makes their world more real, more a shared experience. It drew me in deeper, and I enjoyed that submersion.
I would strongly recommend that those readers who absolutely love Paranormal Romances, vampires, a detailed world building and engaging characters that you will be rooting for… this is one novel, one series that you will want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of Chaos and Moonlight from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
I have loved and read about vampires for decades now. I have my favorite authors and series. So let me tell you upfront it takes an exceptional vampire story to earn a 5 star review from me… reserved usually for only my most cherished series and authors. I have just added a new auto-buy to that list with this very first novel in the Order of the Nines series by A. D. Marrow. Chaos and Moonlight offers absolutely everything I need in a really great vampire novel – and then some. Oh, it will not unseat my ultimate favorite vampire series, but it is looking to become my third favorite (hey, long term relationships count, ya know?) – and that, my friend, is saying a lot.
Vampires live among us, have no doubt about that fact. But their race is dying out. Females no longer able to bring their pregnancies to a full term. It is a heartbreaking situation on so many levels. Vampires and humans have crossed over into each other’s lives so much now that the interbreeding of both races seems to be leading to the death of the vampire race.
It’s possible that the research into a solution to transplant rejection might hold the answers that the vampire race so desperately needs.
Taris is the oldest living vampire and the leader of The Nines. By chance he sees an interview done with Doctor Sarah Bridgeman about a breakthrough in transplant rejection research that will possibly change the lives of thousands of transplant recipients worldwide. It is possible that it could also save an entire race of vampires. But she doesn’t know that, yet.
There is a balance in life and death. While Taris and The Nines represents the good, there is Morrigan who represents the worst of the vampire race. Determined to take over the human race, placing the vampires at the top of the chain of command of this planet, Morrigan will destroy as many humans as she possibly can in that quest. One of her priorities is Dr. Sarah Bridgeman and her possible cure.
Taris and Sarah meet when he (in his opinion) rescues her from the threat of Morrigan or when she is kidnapped (in her view) by Taris. No matter which view you take it is unmistakeable that sparks of all kinds start from their very first moments together.
And there you have the basics – and I wouldn’t dream of spoiling your enjoyment of the story by telling you much more.
This was an introduction novel into the unique world of the vampires of The Nines and the humans they will encounter and perhaps bring into their world. We meet some of the characters that will most likely be in future books. We also learn that this group of vampires faces not only their own unique challenges but also the same challenges that any of us living in this modern world also do. I was delighted to find many of those challenges within Chaos and Midnight. It makes their world more real, more a shared experience. It drew me in deeper, and I enjoyed that submersion.
I would strongly recommend that those readers who absolutely love Paranormal Romances, vampires, a detailed world building and engaging characters that you will be rooting for… this is one novel, one series that you will want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of Chaos and Moonlight from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
May 11, 2015
After reading some of the great reviews for this book, I started to look forward to reading it. Unfortunately, for me, it just wasn't all that great. Don't get me wrong, it was a good story. In fact, I really like the ideas behind a lot of all that happened. But my problem was the pacing. Everything happened WAY too fast. One couple falls in loves and gets married less than a day after meeting. Another couple falls in love in less than a week. One of the bad guys's conscious makes an abrupt turn around right after seeing his brother. And the cure was found less than a day after work was started on it. I don't know if taking more time for things would have been possible without making the book longer, but it just didn't sit right with me.
So the vampire race it dying out. Too much mixing with humans and their improved immune systems have made it so that trying to change someone, kills them. The bad guys and the good guys are trying to find a way to stop this. Why the bad guys are doing it, I still don't really know. Anyway. It's by chance that both sides happen to see an interview where a Dr. Sarah Bridgeman is on to talk about a new thing her and her partner developed to prevent transplanted organs from being rejected by the body. Just what the vampires are looking for. Lucky for her, Taris, leader of the Nines, finds her first. Despite the way he kidnaps her, she can't deny how bad she wants him. And his attraction to her is also obvious. So after they rescue her partner, they don't fight it anymore. After successful testing the next day, it's a night full of celebration by all. Until Sarah gets kidnapped. Warrior Taris is hotter than what he was forced to become to be sure. They successfully terminate one threat but not with no cost to their own. When one of them goes down, another does what's needed to save her. And by doing so opens up a huge emotional mess that ends up affecting them all. Which, by the way, was actually an interesting twist of sorts that I wasn't expecting.
I'm not sure how excited I would be for the next book. I would definitely give it chance because, while rushed, this book was still really well written. Plus the side characters were a lot of fun and it would be nice to read more with them. So if given the chance, I would probably take it. But I won't be going out of a my way to find or get it.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
So the vampire race it dying out. Too much mixing with humans and their improved immune systems have made it so that trying to change someone, kills them. The bad guys and the good guys are trying to find a way to stop this. Why the bad guys are doing it, I still don't really know. Anyway. It's by chance that both sides happen to see an interview where a Dr. Sarah Bridgeman is on to talk about a new thing her and her partner developed to prevent transplanted organs from being rejected by the body. Just what the vampires are looking for. Lucky for her, Taris, leader of the Nines, finds her first. Despite the way he kidnaps her, she can't deny how bad she wants him. And his attraction to her is also obvious. So after they rescue her partner, they don't fight it anymore. After successful testing the next day, it's a night full of celebration by all. Until Sarah gets kidnapped. Warrior Taris is hotter than what he was forced to become to be sure. They successfully terminate one threat but not with no cost to their own. When one of them goes down, another does what's needed to save her. And by doing so opens up a huge emotional mess that ends up affecting them all. Which, by the way, was actually an interesting twist of sorts that I wasn't expecting.
I'm not sure how excited I would be for the next book. I would definitely give it chance because, while rushed, this book was still really well written. Plus the side characters were a lot of fun and it would be nice to read more with them. So if given the chance, I would probably take it. But I won't be going out of a my way to find or get it.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
May 8, 2015
Chaos and Moonlight, Order of the Nines: Book 1, A.D. Marrow
Genre: Romance, Fantasy/Sci-fi.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Vampires...I love books with those in, so long as the story is good. I’ve read far too many clichéd, dull ones, but thankfully this one was a good series opener. Some adventure, danger, a bit of romance and some murder and mayhem. Made for a fun start.
Taris, he’s the oldest and is worried by the decline in numbers. For the last couple of hundred years they’ve been unable to reproduce or turn humans. He doesn’t want the race to die out, but nothing they’ve tried so far has worked out, and then he sees a TV show featuring Sarah’s work. He can see immediately that its got huge implications for the vampires problem, and sets out to get her help. The problem though is that there’s a second faction, another vampire group, headed by the evil, murderous, bloodthirsty Morrigan. they’re a cruel group, and they want her and will stop at nothing to get to her. They don’t care who dies in their schemes, and will kill Sarah as soon as her usefulness to them is gone.
When he meets her Taris is shocked by the attraction he feels to Sarah, and she takes some persuading he really is what he says. After all if someone came to you saying they were a vampire would you believe them? Want more proof than some teeth that could have been cosmetically altered? Sarah does too, but then events move incredibly quickly with the dangers from the other group chasing them, and before she realises she’s embroiled in a steamy relationship with Taris.
Its a fun read, great characters, realistic plots and a good mix of groups. Its always so much more fun when there’s an evil group too, and when its headed by a real bi tch like Morrigan that makes for some great story lines. I really enjoyed this start to the series. its fairly simplistic in plot but sometimes that’s best in a series opener, so we can get to know the characters and setting better. I’m not sure what’s coming next, there’s not really any hints from the story, but what is great is this doesn’t have any cliff-hangers, is a complete book on its own and for someone like me who HATES being left hanging months, years even for the next part in a series this ending is perfect.
Stars: Four, a good solid start and a great debut novel. I look forward to more.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers
May 4, 2015
Check out my full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Whenever I start a new book, I always hope that, at the very least, I'm entertained long enough that I'm not tempted to skim or to put the book down. Chaos and Moonlight, the first book in the Order of the Nines series by A.D. Marrow, did not just entertain me; it made the rest of the world disappear and my main focus was on Taris and Sarah and their quest to find a cure to battle the vampire extinction and dealing with their developing feelings for one another. The world that the author has created has elements that bring about a uniqueness yet also a sense of familiarity, a creative blend that I thoroughly enjoyed.
One of the best things about this book was its cast of characters. Taris and Sarah weren't your typical vampire and human, respectively, both of them being forces to be reckoned with. Taris had an imposing and powerful presence yet was sensitive and loyal, while Sarah had insecurities and doubts but could hold her own when necessary. They had this capacity to care about people beyond themselves and when they were together, there was this almost palpable connection that made their love story such an absorbing read. Along with the paranormal suspense thriller element, I must admit I'm now very happily addicted.
If I haven't gushed enough about this book then let me make it as clear as day: I. FREAKING. LOVED. IT. On it's own, it was already an amazing read, but what makes it even better is that it sets the stage for other stories to be told and whets your literary appetite for anything else to follow. From the imaginative and original story arc to the characters that capture your heart, Chaos and Moonlight is everything you want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Suffice it to say that I am highly recommending this and already have the second book on my radar. Chaos and Moonlight gets five-plus stars and is a 2015 favorite! ♥♥♥
Release Date: 06 May 2015
Whenever I start a new book, I always hope that, at the very least, I'm entertained long enough that I'm not tempted to skim or to put the book down. Chaos and Moonlight, the first book in the Order of the Nines series by A.D. Marrow, did not just entertain me; it made the rest of the world disappear and my main focus was on Taris and Sarah and their quest to find a cure to battle the vampire extinction and dealing with their developing feelings for one another. The world that the author has created has elements that bring about a uniqueness yet also a sense of familiarity, a creative blend that I thoroughly enjoyed.
One of the best things about this book was its cast of characters. Taris and Sarah weren't your typical vampire and human, respectively, both of them being forces to be reckoned with. Taris had an imposing and powerful presence yet was sensitive and loyal, while Sarah had insecurities and doubts but could hold her own when necessary. They had this capacity to care about people beyond themselves and when they were together, there was this almost palpable connection that made their love story such an absorbing read. Along with the paranormal suspense thriller element, I must admit I'm now very happily addicted.
If I haven't gushed enough about this book then let me make it as clear as day: I. FREAKING. LOVED. IT. On it's own, it was already an amazing read, but what makes it even better is that it sets the stage for other stories to be told and whets your literary appetite for anything else to follow. From the imaginative and original story arc to the characters that capture your heart, Chaos and Moonlight is everything you want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Suffice it to say that I am highly recommending this and already have the second book on my radar. Chaos and Moonlight gets five-plus stars and is a 2015 favorite! ♥♥♥
Release Date: 06 May 2015
June 22, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
After reading the synopsis I thought this book would be more drama than romance, but the blend is just perfect. You get some good setup for future installments without having the book bogged down in backstory.
This book begins with a glimpse inside a breed of vampires desperate to save their race. What once was viewed as an invulnerable species is not on the brink of extinction because of the way humans have evolved. Their only hope at living "normal" lives anymore (with families and children) is to engage the leading scientists who are making breakthroughs that might apply to their unique genetic issues. Lucky for them, on the eve of another horrible funeral, Dr. Sarah Bridgeman makes a memorable appearance on a TV show, telling off the news anchor while describing her research. Taris, the eldest of the surviving vampires, is determined to get her on their side and working on their "cure."
Still stinging from her suspension based on the horrible impression she made on national TV, Sarah didn't think her life could get worse until she finds herself kidnapped by a vampire, running from another, and leaping from tall buildings with no safety net. The plucky doctor makes a good match for the serious Taris. Even his friends, the remaining "nine" who are tasked with policing their own kind, find a good symmetry between the couple and try their best to give them space to discover their feelings. There's action, adventure, betrayal, discover, and (of course) some sizzling sexy scenes thrown in to make this a truly entertaining paranormal romance read. Since this is only the start of the series, we got a good dose of introduction to the rest of the nine and I cannot wait to see who gets a book next.
After reading the synopsis I thought this book would be more drama than romance, but the blend is just perfect. You get some good setup for future installments without having the book bogged down in backstory.
This book begins with a glimpse inside a breed of vampires desperate to save their race. What once was viewed as an invulnerable species is not on the brink of extinction because of the way humans have evolved. Their only hope at living "normal" lives anymore (with families and children) is to engage the leading scientists who are making breakthroughs that might apply to their unique genetic issues. Lucky for them, on the eve of another horrible funeral, Dr. Sarah Bridgeman makes a memorable appearance on a TV show, telling off the news anchor while describing her research. Taris, the eldest of the surviving vampires, is determined to get her on their side and working on their "cure."
Still stinging from her suspension based on the horrible impression she made on national TV, Sarah didn't think her life could get worse until she finds herself kidnapped by a vampire, running from another, and leaping from tall buildings with no safety net. The plucky doctor makes a good match for the serious Taris. Even his friends, the remaining "nine" who are tasked with policing their own kind, find a good symmetry between the couple and try their best to give them space to discover their feelings. There's action, adventure, betrayal, discover, and (of course) some sizzling sexy scenes thrown in to make this a truly entertaining paranormal romance read. Since this is only the start of the series, we got a good dose of introduction to the rest of the nine and I cannot wait to see who gets a book next.
May 9, 2015
This a Vampire novel, and I love Vampires.
This is a different take on vampires. The vampires are dying out. They can’t make new vampires because their dominate blood when ingested by a human will attack the human’s immune system and kill them.
Taris and Kalin Bhalthair are a sister and brother who just lost a human who was like a daughter to them, and they are devastated. Haley, was trying to find a cure, by ingesting Taris’s blood a little at a time to build up a tolerance to it. While burying Haley a newspaper blew in and got caught in her casket. In the newspaper, there was a story about a Dr Sarah Bridgeman who along with her research partner, Nicholas Patton, discovered a serum that would stop the rejection of transplanted organs. This could be a cure for the vampires.
Of course, there are the bad guys, Morrigan and Bane, who want the cure for themselves. Taris was going to ask Sarah for her help, but circumstances changed and he was forced to grab Sarah from her bed, when Bane, his brother, came for Sarah. Bane is an interesting character, who wears garish make-up and dresses like a drag queen, and hates his brother with a passion.
Taris turns to the Nine to help him protect Sarah and Nick. I loved the different take on the vampires, and the romance between Sarah and Taris. Because Sarah is not really a beauty, (which is nice to hear) But Taris is superhot and sexy, and is also the oldest living vampire and the ruler of the vampires and leader of the Nines. The Nines used to be the vampire enforcers. But now that the numbers are so diminished the Nines are pretty much not needed.
So does the serum work? We find out how really venerable these vampires are. They are long lived, not immortal.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, by NetGalley.
This is a different take on vampires. The vampires are dying out. They can’t make new vampires because their dominate blood when ingested by a human will attack the human’s immune system and kill them.
Taris and Kalin Bhalthair are a sister and brother who just lost a human who was like a daughter to them, and they are devastated. Haley, was trying to find a cure, by ingesting Taris’s blood a little at a time to build up a tolerance to it. While burying Haley a newspaper blew in and got caught in her casket. In the newspaper, there was a story about a Dr Sarah Bridgeman who along with her research partner, Nicholas Patton, discovered a serum that would stop the rejection of transplanted organs. This could be a cure for the vampires.
Of course, there are the bad guys, Morrigan and Bane, who want the cure for themselves. Taris was going to ask Sarah for her help, but circumstances changed and he was forced to grab Sarah from her bed, when Bane, his brother, came for Sarah. Bane is an interesting character, who wears garish make-up and dresses like a drag queen, and hates his brother with a passion.
Taris turns to the Nine to help him protect Sarah and Nick. I loved the different take on the vampires, and the romance between Sarah and Taris. Because Sarah is not really a beauty, (which is nice to hear) But Taris is superhot and sexy, and is also the oldest living vampire and the ruler of the vampires and leader of the Nines. The Nines used to be the vampire enforcers. But now that the numbers are so diminished the Nines are pretty much not needed.
So does the serum work? We find out how really venerable these vampires are. They are long lived, not immortal.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, by NetGalley.
May 20, 2015
Chaos and Moonlight (Order of the Nines #1) by A. D. Marrow Taris, elite vampire of the Order of the Nines, is committed to saving his race from extinction. He enlists human, Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, whose medical research may be just what they need. Unfortunately, he is not the only one that wants her knowledge.
Taris is a good leader and vampire. As the oldest vampire, he is looked up too. He cares about his people and feels remorse for those that have died trying to save them.
I love Sarah. I appreciate that she speaks her mind, especially on her television interview. She is smart and determined. I enjoyed the chemistry between Taris and Sarah.
Morrigan and Bane are interesting adversaries. Morrigan is just plain evil and mean. Mean is too nice of a word: demented, malicious, tyrant. Bane, on the other hand, while wicked, at times I actually want to like him. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why he puts up with Morrigan. Their connection to Taris definitely added to the drama.
I enjoyed all the support characters. Their personalities were all so different and interesting. I look forward to learning more about them in future books.
Chaos and Moonlight was fast-paced and thrilling. The plot was well-executed and fascinating. The story had a good flow and was difficult to put down.
This was the first book I read by A. D. Marrow. I am impressed by her writing style and creativity. I will definitely continue reading this series.
Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Taris is a good leader and vampire. As the oldest vampire, he is looked up too. He cares about his people and feels remorse for those that have died trying to save them.
I love Sarah. I appreciate that she speaks her mind, especially on her television interview. She is smart and determined. I enjoyed the chemistry between Taris and Sarah.
Morrigan and Bane are interesting adversaries. Morrigan is just plain evil and mean. Mean is too nice of a word: demented, malicious, tyrant. Bane, on the other hand, while wicked, at times I actually want to like him. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why he puts up with Morrigan. Their connection to Taris definitely added to the drama.
I enjoyed all the support characters. Their personalities were all so different and interesting. I look forward to learning more about them in future books.
Chaos and Moonlight was fast-paced and thrilling. The plot was well-executed and fascinating. The story had a good flow and was difficult to put down.
This was the first book I read by A. D. Marrow. I am impressed by her writing style and creativity. I will definitely continue reading this series.
Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2015
3.5 Stars
3.5 stars
Make no mistake, I enjoyed this book. I believe there is some growth needed to make it an exceptional paranormal series, but for a relatively new author, I believe there is huge promise.
The book supposedly centres around Taris, the leader of The Nines. I am led to believe that these are a group of vampires who originally were set up to protect the vampire race as a whole, but to be honest, other than that, their purpose is unclear. They appear to have virtually become redundant now the race faces extinction.
Anyway back to my original point of the fact that this book is about Taris and Dr Sarah Bridgman. She, along with her lab partner have just created a medical breakthrough and the vampires see this as a potential way to save the race. Now whilst I understand the mechanics of how this helps, I am left with the need to know more how these vampires work on a biological level. There is a mention of them conceiving naturally, but that isn't explained clearly. Besides DNA, what sets these vampires apart from humans? I wanted to know more about their history.
At times things and situations were unclear. It was sometimes difficult to guage, at first, who was in what scene and where. Although I was eventually able to work this out.
I would have liked more emphasis on Taris and Sarah's romance, but I do get the feeling the author was trying to build a base for the rest of the series, so whilst there are improvements to be made, I do think there is a huge possibility this could become an excellent series.
3.5 stars
Make no mistake, I enjoyed this book. I believe there is some growth needed to make it an exceptional paranormal series, but for a relatively new author, I believe there is huge promise.
The book supposedly centres around Taris, the leader of The Nines. I am led to believe that these are a group of vampires who originally were set up to protect the vampire race as a whole, but to be honest, other than that, their purpose is unclear. They appear to have virtually become redundant now the race faces extinction.
Anyway back to my original point of the fact that this book is about Taris and Dr Sarah Bridgman. She, along with her lab partner have just created a medical breakthrough and the vampires see this as a potential way to save the race. Now whilst I understand the mechanics of how this helps, I am left with the need to know more how these vampires work on a biological level. There is a mention of them conceiving naturally, but that isn't explained clearly. Besides DNA, what sets these vampires apart from humans? I wanted to know more about their history.
At times things and situations were unclear. It was sometimes difficult to guage, at first, who was in what scene and where. Although I was eventually able to work this out.
I would have liked more emphasis on Taris and Sarah's romance, but I do get the feeling the author was trying to build a base for the rest of the series, so whilst there are improvements to be made, I do think there is a huge possibility this could become an excellent series.
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