On her seventh birthday Layla’s mother mysteriously disappeared. Raised by a wood nymph in one of the few remaining human settlements, Layla learned to fight from an early age. She also learned to distrust the vampires who rule most of the land. When a vampire saves her life, Layla finds herself more than a little drawn to him, even knowing he could never give his heart to a human.
The trauma of his childhood left Simon weary and distrustful of all humans, until the day he saved Layla’s life. After seeing the spirited human fighting like a seasoned warrior, Simon can’t help but respect and admire her. He soon learns that Layla is much more than he ever imagined, and he finds it hard to stay away from her. Despite the depths of his feelings, Simon knows there can be no future for them.
Both of their worlds are turned upside down as Layla nears her twenty-seventh birthday. Suddenly the male vampires are inexplicably drawn to her, and Simon is no exception. As they unravel the mystery of Layla’s heritage, an enemy from their past resurfaces and threatens to destroy Simon and all that he cares for.
***This book contains a graphic scene involving physical and psychological abuse which may be disturbing to some readers.
Cassandra Lawson lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and her two youngest children. When she is not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, listening to music, or curling up with a good book.
I am such an eBook junky that I had bought this book in 2015 and just remembered to read it, but I am sure glad I did. As soon as I started reading it, I remembered the first book of the series I read and the lore around the vampires. A lore entirely different from any other books I had read and a lore I loved.
In this story we follow Simon a damaged vampire we met in book one and Layla a human he saved from a bullet in that same book. I am usually not a fan of erotica. However, I would not classify this series in the genre. I'd say it's a great story with steamy scenes. Her vampires are sexy predators who get turned on by chases, and sometimes have trouble controlling themselves, yet they have moral.
For fans of vampire romance with a solid story behind.
I am officially a Cassandra Lawson fangirl. She could write a phone book, restaurant menu, or a product description for Amazon and I'm going to read it as long as she keeps delivering these hot Alpha vampires!! I am hooked!
This is the second book in the Moon Virus series and I FLOVE it! It starts off where the first book ends, but this one is centered around Simon and Layla.
Layla is one of the humans that Raven brings to the vampire settlement from the human settlement they were all living in. She is adjusting well to her new life and making friends quickly with the vampires. One in particular is a constant source of frustration.....Simon. She wants him in every way possible but knows there will never be anything between them but friendship.
Simon was a slave growing up and for a long time harbored nothing but ill will towards the humans. To him, they were only good for one thing...blood. With more and more humans coming to live on the vampire settlement, he was learning to befriend them and not hate all humans. He was deeply attracted to Layla but never could be with a human in that way. He struggles with his desire but remains friends with her though they constantly tease one another. He wants more from her and is fighting himself constantly.
Right before Layla's 27th birthday, something strange starts happening with her. She is emitting a smell that is driving all the male vampires crazy with lust. Her own arousal has been heightened tenfold and nothing she does herself is any form of relief. With the help of Raven, Layla discovers that she's not quite fully human.
Now that the human label has been removed, everything inside Simon is let loose. Layla finally gets what she wants....Simon. However no matter how many sparks fly in the bedroom, Layla is not convinced that Simon truly wants to be with her. Just when you think things are going just right for this couple...Simon's past comes back to haunt them. Will it break them? Will Simon survive through this torment once again? Read to find out!
I'm so in love with this series! Simon is HOT HOT HOT!!! That man should come with a warning label at least. Layla is strong and fierce. She holds her own ground. I love these two! The book was well written and keeps you on your toes! The hot and steamy will leave you panting and fanning yourself like crazy. Go 1-click and get caught up before the next book in the series comes out! I can't wait for Ian's story.
Another good and intense book in Cassandra's A Moon Virus Series. Embrace The Heat is the second book in the series and I think it has a bit more darkness to it due to some stuff in the story that may have some people cringing a bit, but I found interesting. Layla is a wonderful heroine! She is pretty, spirited and fights when needed. Simon is a gorgeous hero. He is instantly drawn to Layla and can't seem to stay away from her. Especially once she hits twenty-seven.
Embrace The Heat has some major action, suspense, and plenty of romance. It was REALLY hard to put this story down once I got started. It was well put together and the plot was both intriguing and intense. Cassandra Lawson has a way of writing a book that makes the reader happy to have picked up the story and causes them to have a meltdown afterward because they are DYING for the next one!
I rate this story an OUTRAGEOUS FIVE SHOOTING STARS! I loved how super addictive the story was and how everything from the romance, passion, and suspense, comes together beautifully for a enchanting and nail-biting read.
Why must I be limited to 5 stars? Can I please give this 10? Cassandra has outdone herself again….. She honestly has! I LOVED this!!!!!! I could not put this book down and I had to because I had to work! Dang Work! We met Simon in Raven's Blood so we know some of his history from there...Turn it up 5 notches when Simon cannot stay away from Layla. He has always said that they are friends and he does not want to ruin that, but it is also suspected that he does not want to take it further because Layla is 'human'...or is she? We learn a lot about Simon ….but we also learn a lot about Layla….. And we discover that Layla isn't human. While there is a lot to rejoice and be happy about, there is some sadness…. It is going to be hard to wait for the next book in the series!!!
I first met Simon and Layla as secondary characters in the first Moon Virus book and when I learned that the two will get their own book, together, well, I was definitely looking forward to it. I was mostly intrigued with Simon because of his experiences with humans when he was younger so I’m curious as to what kind of story he will have.
What worked for me?
I liked Raven’s Blood, the first book, but didn’t really love it. But this second book was love for me. I mentioned in my review of the first book how much potential Cassandra Lawson’s writing has and I’m glad to say that she made great strides in terms of story cohesion and characterization with this second book. And that makes me really, really happy.
It was a great experience watching Simon and Layla circle around their feelings for each other. Layla always thought that what she felt for Simon was one-sided and unrequited and that she totally understood that they could never have any future because of Simon’s past, no matter how little she knows about it. On the other hand, Simon has developed strong affections for Layla ever since he saved her during a confrontation with the bad guys in book one. Now, if only he was not so blind as to the direction of those feelings, we’ll probably get somewhere. (Don’t worry, we do get somewhere.) I also appreciate that even though they were together-together, not everything’s perfect and there are some things that they still need to work out as a couple. It’s not all perfect and this element adds to the realistic feel of their relationship, which I really loved.
I really appreciate the great pacing of the story, not just in terms of the development of the romance between the two (and trust me, it was awesome. The sexual tension and build up were so intense, they could cut the air. Again, awesome.) but also in the overarching theme of the series.
What did not work for me?
Cassandra Lawson writes the most sick villains in the history of paranormal books. I give her props on this because the villainous things these people do are really something and I guess also adds that layer of uncertainty in this particular type of conflict. My only minor issue being that I have mixed feelings about a plot point being an overkill. It was just a little too much although it still didn’t take away my full enjoyment of the book.
My over-all take on it?
This was a great follow-up book in the Moon Virus series. Simon and Layla are both admirable beings and it was wonderful seeing their friendship develop into something more. This book was a lot tighter than the first one in terms of both plot, pacing, and characterization and I have to give due props to Cassandra from doing such a great job with this one.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Yes, these are my honest and personal thoughts on this book.
I have found a new paranormal romance series that I love. I loved Raven's Blood and I equally love Embrace the Heat. The idea behind the whole moon virus was genius. In other books you don't usually read about the creation of vampirism, or what makes a vampire a vampire but in Raven's Blood and Embrace the Heat you get the back story of the virus. While that was nice to see, I did not care for the time jumps to do so. I know the time jumps add to the story and give it depth, but they just aren't for me. I didn't let that turn me off though. The characters in both books were equally plotted out well. You briefly meet Layla and Simon in Raven's Blood but you don't have to read it to read Embrace the Heat. It can be read as a standalone. But I suggest you read Raven's Blood also because it is what got me hooked on the Moon Virus series and you don't want to miss any of these hot alpha guys. Layla was abandoned at the age of 7 when her mother turned 27. That doesn't raise any suspicions until Layla's 27th birthday starts to roll around. She's not sure what is happening to her and neither is anyone else. She pretty much worshiped the ground that Simon walked on because he saved her life and she is definitely attracted to him too but she knows that Simon will never reciprocate those feelings because he is scarred from his childhood. Humans did unthinkable things too him and he can't imagine having feelings for one..Ever! But when Layla seems to be in trouble will he put his past behind him to help her out and let free reign on his heart? Can they figure out what is wrong with her before chaos reigns in the community? As if all that wasn't enough they also have to face off to an old enemy that threatens everyone's safety with a new version of the virus. More baddies, more hot alpha vampires and more tough heroines what more can you ask for in a book? Give this series a try today and don't miss out on Cassandra Lawson's stories of the moon virus.
Simon is the golden angel with a deep mistrust of humans. He has learnt in the past few years that not all humans are as bad as the one who mistreated him, but he still refuses to have anything beyond friendship with Layla because she is human.
Layla has a small circle of friends, the closest of which are Danny and Mark. Since her mother disappeared, she hasn't wanted to let anyone get too close. She has had feelings for Simon for a while now but also understands his feelings about humans.
What neither of them count on is the fact that their feelings don't fade with time but intensify instead. Add in the fact that suddenly, Layla feels her emotions spinning out of control and the vampires admit that her smell is "disturbing" and things take a more interesting turn.
This book is full of humour, romance, steam, suspense and action. I love seeing how the characters are growing and changing, Ian in particular, but you also have Raven and Connor, Norah and Rand plus the others. You will laugh and, if you are anything like me, you will cry. A fantastic second book in a series I can highly recommend and I'm already eagerly anticipating book 3!
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! Nov 16, 2014
I am not an avid reader of paranormal or sci-fi books, but Cassandra Lawson has one huge fan in me! I loved Raven’s Blood – book one of the Moon Virus Series and was extremely excited to review Embrace the Heat – book two.
If you are skeptic like me, on reading sci-fi romances (besides Twilight of course), please for the love of all that is good in the book world, read this series. This is a definite 5 star read for me. Cassandra gives you everything you love in a great romance with suspense, angst, lust, action, and even some sexy time.
Layla is one of the humans that live in the vampire settlement and she has her eye on one very special vampire. Simon is a beautiful vampire, and even though he “sees” Layla, he knows he will never be with her because she is human. With his tough up bringing he has some trust issues with humans. I loved the back and forth with these two characters. They had crazy chemistry but there was something holding them back, that is until a big revelation…. Read to find out how their relationship changes and where the story takes them on their journey to find themselves and each other.
This is a great read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and falling for the characters. Cassandra writes her characters so well, you forget they are supernatural and fall in love with their personal journey. This is a great read that I highly recommend to everyone who loves a good romance.
I read the first book in the series, Raven's Blood and really enjoyed it so I was super looking forward to this and it did not disappoint.
We were introduced to both Simon and Layla in the first book and I was eager to read their story. They obviously have feelings for each other but have chosen not to act on those feelings. They both have their own reasons for this. Both of them have suffered in their pasts and have cause to distrust each other. Simon especially has a justified deep seated anger against humans and could never see himself loving one. Things are not always as they seem though and we are soon left with more questions than answers.
I really enjoyed this book, as I did the first in the series. I love the story world. Cassandra Lawson has thought up an exciting new twist on the vampire myth plus other great supernatural creatures as well. I enjoyed catching up with some of the characters from the first book as well.
The writing is good and the story flows well with lots of action, romance and suspense. Add to that some truly nasty antagonists and it's a great all round read.
I give this book an easy 5 stars. I would definitely recommend it. I look forward to the next book in the series.
*Get ready to be pulled into an exciting Paranormal Romance.*
I loved Ravens Blood the first book in this series, so was excited to be asked to review book 2, about Simon and Layla.
Layla moved to the vampire compound with some other humans after Raven mated Connor.
Layla has settled well into her new world and made friends with the vampires, she is drawn towards Simon, unfortunately he sees her as a friend only.....or does he?
I really enjoyed reading how their relationship developed, it was amusing at times how they played around each other. When they finally admitted and acted on everything they'd held back - they were smoking hot together ����
What made this book even better is that we get to watch other people's relationships develop along the way, without taking the story away from Simon and Layla.
There's plenty of action too and a very interesting trio is introduced which I'd be happy to see more of.
Get ready to be pulled into an exciting Paranormal Romance.
5 vampy and Racey Stars
** I received an arc of the book for an honest opinion *
This is book 2 in the Moon Virus series. I place a 5 star rating because it is the highest allowed. Honestly, it deserves much higher. I am not usually a reader of this genre, but this author is absolutely amazing. Read any book with her name and you will be hooked. The first book in this series was so good. This one so doesn't disappoint. An absolute brilliant storyline with outstanding characters. It was so well written and did an excellent continuation from the first book. I couldn't put it down. The dialogue and interactions grab a hold and don't let go. Intriguing and entertaining from front to back. Throw in some humor, lots of emotions, and Hott romance to detail. Every superb story need strong supportive characters. Roles that take a storyline to a whole new level. Those that make your heart leap and fall in love. Every role in this one does just that. I could go on and on. Nothing but positive. I highly recommend this series and author. A MUST READ!!! AndreaAH
I give this second book a total thumbs up it was everything I new Simon would be. This author has got some talent .... don't pass this series up. And why your at it check out her other books....hot hot hot
This was a fabulous book! In my opinion, Cassandra is really maturing as an author! This was a pleasure to read - can't wait for the next one! I mean - who wouldn't want to be marked by a hot vamp??
Great sequel, I really enjoyed this book. My only problem was that by 50% I almost felt like it was done, the rest was predictable and kinda feel flat for me. I do feel like there may be more down the line, a character was killed off...but was he really?
I gave this story 4stars because I loved these characters. I fell in love with the first book as well. I like the story line, which made these books so addictive. The books are not like anything I've read before.
Unexpected twists to the second installment of the Moon Virus series make this an interesting and fast-paced read. I'm happy to see that Simon and Ian have come around and are much more likeable now. Layla makes for a very interesting character and I love that she is matched with Simon. New characters are introduced while an old nemesis rears his ugly head again. Foreshadowing might be a little heavy, but at least the separation is not drawn out. I'm anxious to start the next book.
This is Simon and Layla's story. Simon is a born Vampire who's angelic looks were an absolute curse to him. Growing up on a Vampire reservation, taught him how cruel humans were and after the revolt that freed him and his family from the horrific abuse they suffered he is unable to accept humans as anything but blood supply. He is also slightly obsessed with Raven, Connars mate. When Raven's team fights by the side of born Vampires against turned Vampires and Gram, he sees Layla taken hostage by Gram and jumps in front of a bullet to save her. They become great friends but he won't go any further with a human, ever. Known for his attemps to starts small Vampire revolts against Connor because he doesn't agree with how Connor runs their settlement, Its a complete shock when Connor leaves him in charge when he has to go to the vampire government city of Fangrala. Layla is a human child raised by Raven in a human settlement. she is a member of the team that freed Raven and Rand from Grams clutches, she was also taken hostage by Gram in the fight that killed him. Living among Vampires is an adjustment, but Layla does so and she has a fighting spirt that can't be beat. She's a brave little lady. When Simon and Layla become friends she knows their can be no more, because Simon is adamant about not being with involved with humans, and at first thats ok but slowly she starts to have feelings for him and is uncomfortable because of them. Simon and his angel face, has no trouble finding partners and she will never be a wood nymph which is what she thinks he wants. When Layla's sent changes things around her start going haywire and she can't stop thinking about being with Simon. It starts off with mild flirting until she comes right out and tells him she wants him, and is soundly disappointed. With everything going on Simon needs to figure out why Layla's smell is enticing every Vampire around including happly mated ones. Can these two come together and save their settlement? I am thoroughly enjoying this series can't wait to read the next one.
This is the second in the series and I really enjoyed both books. The second one still has characters from the first so it's like a continuation with the focus shifted slightly. I will definitely download the next book. Part of Kindle Unlimited.
I only gave it 4 cuz it was only until the last chapter that the guy tells the girl he loves her. It was kinda boring. I mean it happened that way in the last book too!