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Fated Match #2

Dying to Date

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Vampire socialite Melissa Redgrave has the worst luck with men. Frustrated, she decides what she needs is a little help...from New York's biggest supernatural dating agency. Except that sometimes, a vampire doesn't always find her match.

Until she does. And he's delicious enough to bite.

Tarian Drake keeps his necromancy background quiet. After all, the ability to control the dead isn't exactly welcomed in the supernatural community. When he runs into the beautiful Melissa, she tempts him in a way that has never happened before. She’s his perfect match in every way.

But just as they are about to take their relationship to the next level, his family decides to make a stand—by kidnapping his new girlfriend. Now, if he ever hopes to date again, he’s going to have to get control of his family and free the girl. Oh, and stop a war.

269 pages, ebook

First published June 23, 2015

37 people are currently reading
225 people want to read

About the author

Victoria Davies

18 books255 followers
My love for writing started young. Luckily I had a family who encouraged believing in magic and embracing imagination. From stories quickly scribbled in bright pink diaries, my love of storytelling developed. Since then my characters may have evolved and my plots may have grown decidedly more steamy but I never lost my love of the written word. Writing is not only a way to silence the wonderful voices in my head, but it also allows me to share my passions with my readers. Hope you enjoy my titles!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Tiblu.
1,255 reviews49 followers
June 27, 2015
Why was a Dating agency even involved in this Mess ?

This stats off kinda sweet and nice and VERY quickly evolves into some sorta messed up undead kinda version of the undead version of Romeo and Jerkyette .... Ok soo he didn't tell her he was a necromancer but with all the issues and centuries of hatred and mistrust and even currents issues Tarian just wants to let it all go and find his Mate.... I get that,I think we all do,he just wants Melissa to get to know the real him behind and beyond the name of necromancer and hopefully she'll love him for him but sadly of course ( way,way,WAY too soon in their relationship like 2nd /3rd date ) after he very stupidly ( knowing gramps had brain washed her) let his seriously brain dead sister know who he was dating and Melissa is kidnapped by his horrible grandfathers ppl and for me the book went to shite for me...
Love at Stake I LOVED!!! But this, this I'd abhorred by the time I called it quits... I know now why Melissa was soo HARD to match, was it because she hadn't found her fated mate? Or was it because she just DIDNT KNOW WHAT THE HELL SHE WANTED ? Ok Tarian made his mistakes but you combine that when all his kindness and good intentions and sacrifices he made and was very willing to make to save her sorry ass ? And I think he proved himself at least a little bit , for someone who'd lived a good life as Lucien's vamp. daughter she was very,very mistrustful ok,sure Tarian was a necromancer but he was still a good guy and the only that gave her those mating feelings but she never really trusted anything period. Her feeling, or Tarian or his actions when he saved her,when he volunteered to let her drink from him or even what should have been her own common sense and honestly I just got sick of it and her,seriously I've read soo many stories where the woman trusts way to easily, especially a male/man/possible mate she's just met... Meet and 5 seconds later their having sex and he's tying her up and blindfolding her and maybe even sticking every sex toy imaginable either in her or on her and while those panty wetting fools make wanna scream and not in some crazed exotic joy this made me wanna scream too!! I just wanted to shake Melissa and say enough already!!! Either see the goodness and truth in him and trust your own feeling and instincts and get back together with him or just let him go damn it!!! But stop with the whole teenage girl BS and over analyzing not everything he says and finding him wanting,treating him like crap and then getting out lil girl feeling when he says, No I don't think your my fated mate,my mate won't abhor me. Bam! Right between the eyes,but does she apologize or get a clue as to how crappy she's treating him ? Nope just feel sorry for herself like a immature teen might do and not some one at least 150 years old....
All the bickering and BS was not fun or interesting it was ONLY ANNOYING!!! If the real Romeo had her he'd either ran off and left to be a Knight or a pirate or even a monk or he'd killed himself just get away from her ....
Out of curiosity I skipped ahead and saw they eventually get back together or get together in the 1st place in a way only to have gotten broken apart yet again and not to REALLY get together for good at the end in the very last chapter...
By then I'd LONG since stopped caring, these characters did arguing and fighting ( each other verbally and physically) than love and there was VERY little romance...
What gets me is Why on earth is this a Dating agency story ? This messed up very annoying story didn't need dating agency , these two could have met anywhere, passing on a street a coffee shop, mutual friends,business deals etc. but a dating agency should be fun and if there's excitement and misunderstandings ,they should fun ones not this mess..
Love at Stake had its serious moments but it was fun!!! And No matter how annoying Lucien could be you never doubted his chemistry or feelings for Abbey even when he's trying to convince himself all he wants her for is sex you know he's lying to himself and you can't wait with a smile on your face for him to find out just how wrong he is ;)
With all the different types of creatures Ms.Niles has allowed in her world from mer ppl to all types of shifters and Sirens, incubus and succubus and Sooo many,many creatures out there and soo many problems you could create as obstacles for these lovers to over come, like a mer man finding his make in a gargoyle or a hawk shifter, a border collie shifter a billionaire lion shifter...
Heck I don't know, but this wasn't romantic or fun or anything the last book was or even a story tied to or that needed a dating agency, I Loved the 1st book and was soo Excited when I found this but Love quickly turned to loss,mine and theirs along with my interest and after this review this book...
Couldn't finish this once I won't keep it to try again...
If I seemed harsh I apologize,I only hope I helped in some way..
I get you had to write what you felt but I didn't enjoy it this time.
Profile Image for Nicola.
1,390 reviews286 followers
June 9, 2015
If you enjoyed the first book this series, Love at Stake, you'll love Dying to Date. Being well over a year between releases, I must admit I went in a little rusty, but as soon as I started reading it all came flooding back and I remembered exactly why I loved the first book; Victoria Davies writes an enjoyable romance in the paranormal genre with a strong likeable cast of characters and whilst it may have been a quicker read, it didn't feel at all rushed.

description

Once again the story centralises around Fated Match, New York's dating agency for immortals. Love at Stake saw Vampire Lord Lucian Redgrave refusing to let his daughter, Melissa sign up unless human Abbey Sinclair could match him with his soulmate. She managed to and Dying to Date sees Melissa signed up and seeking her perfect match who comes in the form of Tarian Drake, perfect gent and unbeknownst to her, necromancer; enemy of the vampire.

description

Whilst there's plenty of romance, there's also an equal amount of action and this keeps you gripped throughout. I loved Melissa and Tarian as individuals and a couple, they brought passion, fight and emotion and with Lucian and Abbey creating much of the humour Dying to Date is a worthy addition to the Fated Match series. Looking forward to seeing who Victoria matches next.

"Seven hundred years and you are still the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Jacque.
998 reviews22 followers
July 1, 2015
I had such fun with this book! Dying to Date was fun and flirty with edge of intrigue from start to finish. At times I found myself giggling, others I was biting my nails.

Melissa is a vampire socialite however thankfully I did not find her to be a snob. Maybe a bit grumpy, but who can blame her when she’s dying to find a date (Get the title!). So she tries her hand at a dating service for supernatural. She’s not getting any matches until... Tarian has been around a VERY long time and he is looking for a mate. Necromancers aren’t exactly welcome in the supernatural world, so keeping his background on the down-low he tries out the same dating agency as well. It’s attraction at first sight. And so the adventure begins!

I found Dying to Date a hoot from the very beginning. Melissa’s situation as the dateless I found to be entertainingly funny. When Tarian walks in you can tell there is some serious va-va-va-voom between them. The dialog on their date was snappy and fun. And then Tarian’s family has to go in and ruin it by kidnapping her. Now things got real fun as Tarian goes for the rescue and the rush across the country to get back to her family to stop a war. The adventures they had along the way were some of the best parts for me. The ending was all I wanted it to be and more. Now the question is, will there be another book in this Fated Match series and who is it going to be about? Can’t wait to find out!

This is my first book by Victoria Davies and what a delightful treat it was. It had the right amount of sass, danger and heat to keep me entertained the whole way through. I missed reading book #1 in this series and if it is as much fun as Dying to Date was, then I will need to rectify that immediately. Very much a recommended read for lovers of fun PNRs.


I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 5, Flames - 3
Profile Image for Stacy.
1,335 reviews61 followers
June 24, 2015
Melissa and Tarian have an instant connection and fall for each other pretty quickly, but Tarian has a huge secret that could change their relationship in an instant.

We met Melissa in LOVE AT STAKE, she is Lucian's daughter. She is ready to fine her mate and she turns to Fated Match to accomplish that. She is very strong willed and knows how to take care of herself. Tarian has been hiding for a long time and he is ready to settle down. The only problem is that the paranormals have shunned his race. He never thought he would fall for a vampire, but when he does, their families issues threaten to tear them apart. The couple had a rocky go of it after Tarian's secret was revealed, but their connection was always there.

I enjoyed the danger and suspense that DYING TO DATE brought to the table. There is a considerable of action involved as things heat up. We were introduced to another race of paranormal with the necromancers. The world building was continued from book one, LOVE AT STAKE, and it was nice that there was more to learn.

Fated Match dating agency is of course featured in DYING TO DATE, but Tarian and Melissa hit it off right away so there isn't a bunch of dates being followed or much going on at the agency for these two. In fact, a lot of their time together takes place outside of New York. We do get a few visits with Lucian and Abbey and they are still going strong. They are mates though, so that was expected, but it was still nice to see them after the fact. I imagine there will be more to come out of the Fated Match series and I look forward to seeing who is featured next.

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Douglas Meeks.
892 reviews237 followers
June 26, 2015
This was a fun romp at heart but overall it spent a lot of time in serious situations. Melissa and Tarian are pretty much a mismatch but they have good chemistry but not much else and things start to go to pieces before they have a chance to really get to know each other well.

The story is great, the two main characters were enjoyable BUT in places where other books would have allowed a bit of revenge it seemed it was missing or very muted. Sometimes you don't want your characters taking "the high road" you want them to get even :)

I still really enjoyed Dying To Date and will be looking for the next book in this series, they all have a great story at the heart of them and this was no exception.

Bottom line: Great story, great characters, a bit too non-violent for my tastes but your opinion may vary. 4 Stars and will be looking for the next one.
Profile Image for Marie  Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads).
2,764 reviews55 followers
February 2, 2017
Sexy, edgy, a dark paranormal theme, this book was very easy to lose myself in and enjoy. The cover alone is worth drooling over and the synopsis really captured my interest. But it was the story that really won me. I like the characters and I loved the plot. This is easily one of the most interesting paranormal romances I read in a while. The author did a great job with this one and has me looking forward to more.
Profile Image for Tami .
1,123 reviews33 followers
January 9, 2017
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

3.5

When the paranormal utilizes a dating agency... I think I have now read just about every new trope there is LOL. Cute story. You can survive reading this alone, but I would suggest reading the entire series.
Profile Image for Maria.
893 reviews1 follower
June 29, 2015
Something good. Emphasis on something. Coz there were times I wanted to strangle someone. Just because. ♥
Profile Image for Elizabeth Neal.
1,759 reviews146 followers
February 26, 2017
**3.5 Stars**

Melissa, a vampire, is already unique in that...do I need to finish this sentence? I just called her a vampire, so...LOL Anyway, it seems as if the dating agency, Fated Match, she's joined, is unable to find her a match meeting the minimum of a seventy-five percent compatibility, so she agrees to let Abney, her friend and her sire, her father in almost all ways, Lucian's, new mate, change her profile criteria, therefore allowing more opportunities. Melissa has been yearning to find her mate and knows this may be her best chance as the agency deals with supernatural clients. As she's leaving, she's immediately drawn to the sexiest man as he walks in and seems to hone in on her as well. She learns he's interested in becoming a member, and as she has an inside source in Abbey, Melissa learns the next day that she's a ninety percent match with the gorgeous man.

Tarian, a necromance, knows it's safer if he keeps his heritage a secret. He does not want to become involved in the growing tension between vampires and his kind, especially as his people are forced to follow certain guidelines others aren't. Though he may have once fought alongside others like him to eradicate the world of vampires, he no longer believes in doing so. When he learns Melissa, and yes, he's aware of who and what she is, matched highly with him, he agrees to the date as he hasn't stopped thinking about her.

“Rating or not, I would have called you. The computer system is helpful, I suppose, but it doesn’t replace seeing someone for the first time and knowing.” - Tarian
“Knowing what?” - Melissa
A smile flashed over his face.“ That she should be yours.” - Tarian

After just one date, Tarian and Melissa both know they've discovered something special, a connection worth exploring, and they fully intend to. But it seems as if someone isn't as happy for them and decides to take steps to prevent their relationship from progressing. Unfortunately, the facts begin to add up for Tarian after he hears from Abbey, questioning him on a date that Melissa never showed for. Tarian knows his younger sister, Eilin, who has been listening to their grandfather and pushing toward fighting the vampires, is behind Melissa's disappearance.

When Tarian arrives where she's being held, obvious in his contempt and speaks of his plan in dating her to get close, Melissa can't fight the pain she feels over discovering the connection they shared was but a lie on his part. But if that's the case, why did Tarian help her escape and why would he assist her in hiding? Something isn't adding up about this situation, and though she deeply wants to believe Tarian, to trust his feelings for her are real, she's torn as she knows the history of vampires and necromancers.

“But at least you know you’ve got the power to bring a necromancer to his knees.” - Tarian to Melissa

Can Melissa trust Tarian? What if he must choose between her and his people, which means his sister as well? Is she just a means to an end to stop the war his grandfather is pushing for? Or does Tarian view her as more? Was everything on his part a lie, a ruse just so she'd let her guard down? Or did he truly feel the pull between them as she did? Will they accomplish their goal of stopping a fight between their species?  How will Melissa react when she learns Tarian used to hunt and kill her kind, though it's been decades since his life altering epiphany? Will Melissa have her own and realize maybe her people were too aggressive and hasty in their hatred of all necromancers? Will she see the good his people can do instead of only focusing on the bad? Can a necromancer and a vampire be together and get their HEA? Can they have a future together? Or will they face too many obstacles?

One-click now and follow along as two people whose species have been sworn enemies for all time, discover a love that's worth fighting everything and everyone for. This is the second book in the series, but I was able to follow the storyline without any trouble having not read the previous book.

**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Profile Image for 📖 Yazzie 📚.
579 reviews
March 1, 2020
Good. Fucking. Book.
While I also enjoyed the first book, I hadn’t really been too motivated to read this book, as well as the next. However I am glad that I finally got around to it.
It was definitely more intense than the last book. What with the kidnapping, escapes, shady meet ups and whatnot. It was an epic adventure and an intense romance since they whole book took place within a few weeks (the main relaxation ship building within a week or so). While it didn’t take place over a long period of time there was definitely enough romance and a natural build to their relationship. They got to know each other and they are mates so it didn’t take much to feel comfortable around one another.
I will also say that I liked that this book was different, plot wise, from the first book. The first being mainly about an almost love triangle and an introduction to their world, didn’t have anything like a kidnapping or chase scenes in it. This one was much more action/adventure oriented. I’m keen to see what’s in store for the next book.
Profile Image for Kay's Pallet.
288 reviews5 followers
September 29, 2021
I have such a love hate for this. Melissa is so annoying and the story would be greatly improved with a different female lead. I wanted to love Tarian, but his motives and how much he cares for Melissa still aren't clear. The story itself had everything I love: Romeo and Juliet, vampires, enemies to lovers, and road trips. It had so much potential, but it fell flat with the characters. With likable characters and a tad bit more editing (and better spicy scenes), this would have been really close to a 5 star read for me.

When I said, "a tad bit more editing," here's a couple examples of word choices that I just hated:

"She undulated against him, pressing her breasts up against him."

"She closed her eyes, feeling a suspicious moisture gather behind her lids."
Profile Image for Andrea Marie.
Author 27 books231 followers
February 7, 2021
"Vampire socialite Melissa Redgrave has the worst luck with men. Tarian Drake keeps his necromancy background quiet. After all, the ability to control the dead isn't exactly welcomed in the supernatural community." Loved this story. An emotional roller coaster ride. Filled with angst, steam, regret, romance, family duties, and many more.
Profile Image for Nicole Holloway.
10 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2021
I enjoyed this book and I think if you liked the first book in the series then you will definitely enjoy this one (2nd book)

I admit it was a bit slow at first but soon got my attention.

❤️ Vampires, Powers, Magic, Hate To Love Romance ❤️
Profile Image for Yoru.
436 reviews8 followers
July 6, 2018
It Was pretty good! Surprisingly good and not just all sex^^ just a loooooooot of good sexual tension ( with some sex scene of course xD) and a good plot throughout the book :D

Wish to see when Eilin will be ground up and have a story too :D
Profile Image for T.A. Burke.
1,050 reviews22 followers
Read
August 9, 2021
Read the Kindle Sample but GR review tipped me to a plot I wouldn't go for
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
June 23, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

It’s not easy to find that perfect mate. Doesn’t matter if the one in need is human, vampire, werewolf or even a necromancer… you can’t just pick out a date or mate at the local 7 Eleven ya know? Life, or I should say, undead life would be so much more pleasant if that were only possible. This is usually where Fated Mates dating service would step in and give a helping hand. Melissa is willing to give it a try, after all she’s still young, for a vampire and it’s time that she found that Mr. Right that is supposed to be out there somewhere just waiting for her. Maybe, but she’s so darned picky and not just any average man will do – but that hunk she just passed in the hallway of Fated Mates might do very nicely indeed.

Tarian is looking for his mate. And he’s willing to use a dating agency to reach that goal. The fact that he is a necromancer, that he can control the undead really shouldn’t be counted against him – so he leaves that small detail off of the bio information at Fated Mates. But why keep looking when the perfect female is giving him the eye in the reception area? She is one gorgeous vampire and he is quite willing to take a chance on this beauty.

While he and Melissa really connected and planned to continue seeing where this thing they had together would take them – he didn’t count on or even consider that his relatives would stage a kidnapping, threatening to start a war between the necromancers and the rest of the supernatural community.

Dying to Date is a delightful, fun and quirky story. It is the second in the Fated Mates series. While you don’t have to read Love at Stake before this one, it would give you some of the backstory to this universe. Yet, there is enough mention in Dying to Date about the history of this paranormal community that it’s not truly necessary – just a suggestion to eventually read Love at Stake because they both are excellent paranormal romances.

Tarian and Melissa were not only hot together, but they blended together very well. I had no trouble accepting that these two people, from differing factions within their paranormal world were meant to be together. It is a wild and enjoyable ride to follow them through their adventures to get to their happy ever after. The world building was excellent, and it was easy to fall into this world without questioning much at all. If you love paranormals to begin with, you know how to set aside belief and just accept what an author has created for their unique world.

I would recommend this fun, quirky and entertaining novel to any paranormal romance reader. It is a story that draws you in and won’t let go until you get Tarian and Melissa all straightened out and off to their lives together. Looking for a fun summer read? Add this one to your reading list, I think you’ll be glad you did.

*I received an e-ARC of Dying to Date from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Profile Image for Jen.
3,578 reviews
June 21, 2015
Check out the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.

Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Dying to Date is book two in Victoria Davies's Fated Match series, stories of pairs that are perfectly mismatched by the matchmaking service but when fate intervenes, they'll realize they've found their ideal mates. Melissa Redgrave was introduced to readers in book one, Love at Stake, and now she finally gets what she wants: a membership with Fated Match. When she's paired up with Tarian Drake, the fact that he doesn't disclose his species may seem like a red flag but Melissa doesn't think too much of it. There's a definite connection between the two of them, something that's been there since they first met in the reception area of Fated Match. Reality bites when Melissa discovers that Tarian is a necromancer and she can't help but wonder if his dating her has something to do with her being the kidnapping victim of Tarian's relatives.

While this second novel shares the humor and drama of the first one, this also includes a fair amount of action and a bit of suspense as well, thanks to the whole vampire-necromancer feud. Abbey Sinclair and Lucian Redgrave may have had to overcome their own personal hang-ups when it came to them actually and officially becoming a couple, but Melissa and Tarian were up against the prejudices their respective races had against the other. Even though, based on the dictates of those around them, they shouldn't even be together, these two were perfect for each other. They were sweet but intense and the whole Romeo and Juliet vibe is something I've enjoyed in modern-day books for as long as it's pulled off well and that it still has its own creative twist to it, which this book most certainly did.

The general concept for the series is deceptively simple--supernatural beings searching for mates--but there's been a complexity to the two books so far. These are pairings that do not fit the norm and there are quite a number of failed potential pair-ups before they actually find the person they're meant to be with. There's nothing ordinary about either of the books and it appears that things just keep getting better from one book to the next, leaving me with no other choice but to raise my expectations for the third book, which I'm looking forward to reading whenever it'll be released. ^.^ So far, so good, Victoria Davies! Dying to Date gets 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥
Profile Image for Jeannie Zelos.
2,849 reviews57 followers
June 24, 2015

Dying to Date, A Fated Match Novel, Victoria Davies
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre:  Romance, Sci-Fi and Fantasy
Another one from the Fated Match series. This time it’s  Vampire leader Lucien’s daughter Melissa looking for her match, and in comes a new customer who looks good – on paper as well as in the flesh. Only issue is he’s refused to give his supernatural type – but the business doesn't insist on that, and Melissa has already seen him and is attracted. So they go off on their first date, get on well and much to Melissa’s surprise ( and secretly her dismay too..) he’s a perfect gentleman and kisses are all she gets.
What she doesn’t know is he’s a Necromancer, a very old, skilled one and they are outcast from everywhere. The vampires fear them as they can be controlled by them, and as the largest group everyone follows them, so for generations now the necromancers have been always hidden, always living secretly and on the edge of society. Tarian doesn’t want war, he’d love to be part of the supernatural society but so long as he can lead a quiet life he’ll stay hidden. Melissa wasn’t in his plans, he’d no idea he’d feel such a pull to her, and as such a prominent person she’s a real danger to his live quietly ideal. Not all of the necromancers are happy living a quiet life on the outskirts though, and Melissa gets kidnapped by a group who want to take over New York for themselves. Of course as this was just before their date the blame looks to fall on him. He doesn’t want war, but knows this will bring it. He knows who’s behind it and what they want, and is stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Its a fun read, light but with a decent plot, and it did make me wonder how on earth he was going to rescue Melissa without her dad killing him!! Lucien’s very, very protective of her, and he’ll be furious, but doing nothing isn’t an option. He can’t just leave her, he feels far too much for her, but can’t go against the others without some backup, and he’s just one person. It makes for a fun adventure, for some really sad and upsetting moments for Melissa when she’s told things by her kidnappers – they make it all sound so believable and she’s gutted.  
As expected its a realistic, fun read, with some seductive scene, and  hot, erotic sex. Covets do that well, sensuality without smuttiness that so many fantasy erotic reads contain.  It’s a fun, well written, easy to follow novel and a perfect way to lose yourself in another world for a couple of hours
Stars: Four, a fun, sexy read.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers 
Profile Image for Girl Reading Books Too.
781 reviews52 followers
March 13, 2017
I don't know why I keep going into this series thinking the books are cute. They are not. Instead, they are intense, emotional and heart wrenching. They deal with some pretty heavy duty issues too like prejudice, racial discrimination, equality and freedom. I guess it's because the basis of these stories start with a paranormal dating agency and to me, that's supposed to be fun and cute, right? Regardless, they are a fabulous read.

I had a hard time with this book and got stuck at 24% for quite a while. Melissa gets kidnapped by a rebel necromancer faction and it churned my gut to see her controlled and have her will taken away from her by the evil necromancer. I knew she would be kidnapped, it was in the blurb, but even so, the kidnapping and her being controlled hit me hard. I guess it is the sign of a well written book, and it IS a well written book, I was so affected by it.

I loved Tarian. He is so noble, not to mention gorgeous, but it is his sense of integrity and desire to do what's right for his people which has me falling for him. He's even so noble as to be willing to sacrifice his own happiness for the greater good.

As for Melissa, she's such a great heroine. She's young, somewhat idealistic and naive but a strong, independent woman at the same time. Even when she was captured, she tried to figure out a way to free herself and she didn't give up hope. Even when she had opportunities to run, she didn't. Instead she stayed, and trusted, and fought for what she believed in and wanted for her life. She even fought for a people she considered enemies her whole life.

Between Tarian and Melissa, they have so much honor and nobility between them, it makes my teeth ache. They are such a great couple. I loved them as individuals but I also loved them as a couple. I really wanted them to find their way to their happy ending, considering what they had to go through, which was stop a war between two supernatural races and giving one race the freedom to live where they choose. Tarian and Melissa had a lot of obstacles to overcome and they managed to do it with their integrity intact, no making compromises, no taking the easy way out. It's what makes their happy ending so satisfying.

I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. Looking forward to reading the next book.

Deanna's World

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Profile Image for Gigi staub.
942 reviews18 followers
June 24, 2015
Vampire socialite Melissa Redgrave has the worst luck with men. Frustrated, she decides what she needs is a little help...from New York's biggest supernatural dating agency. Except that sometimes, a vampire doesn't always find her match.

Until she does. And he's delicious enough to bite.

Tarian Drake keeps his necromancy background quiet. After all, the ability to control the dead isn't exactly welcomed in the supernatural community. When he runs into the beautiful Melissa, she tempts him in a way that has never happened before. She’s his perfect match in every way.

But just as they are about to take their relationship to the next level, his family decides to make a stand—by kidnapping his new girlfriend. Now, if he ever hopes to date again, he’s going to have to get control of his family and free the girl. Oh, and stop a war.

Review:

I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this story as much as I did the first. Melissa the heroine of this story is the daughter of the hero, Lucian, from the first book. Though they both revolve around the Fated Mate supernatural dating agency, they had a different feeling to me. It has been awhile since I read the first book, but to me it was more emotional and this one is more action packed. Now, there is emotion in this one too, to me it just seemed more action packed. Though I have read the first book, I really don't see how anyone would have problems picking up this book and being confused. The author does a good job or wrapping events and characters in both stories together. Always a sucker for funny and witty dialog, made me like this series. She can write some great sexy scenes too. The engrossing story made this a fast-paced and quick read that I got through in an afternoon.

A fun, sexy, action/suspense filled, forbidden love, supernatural romance. I really like this series and hope that we see more from this world.

4Stars

*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review*
1,353 reviews38 followers
June 12, 2015
Melissa Redgrave just cannot find a suitable boyfriend, even with the help of her friend Abbey, who works for Fated Match, the biggest dating agency for supernaturals on the east coast. Truth be told, Melissa has quite high expectations: she’s a vampire, but she doesn’t really want one for a mate, she doesn’t want a human, and so on; she’s a tad picky. And necromancers are definitely out of the question; Melissa’s adoptive father is New York City’s vampire leader and he’s dealing with necromancer uprisings around the city. The necromancers have been banished but want to regain their place amongst the supernatural community; they have been the vampires’ enemies for centuries. After putting the finishing touches to her profile for Fated Match, on her way out Melissa comes face to face with an Adonis, Tarian Drake, who seems interested in her. He registers, and lo and behold: he’s a match, without however saying which race he belongs to. Tarian and Melissa’s first date is a dream, they had immediately decided to continue seeing each other, but on her way to her second date, Melissa is kidnapped!


DYING TO DATE is a fun and very well written story. I love Ms. Davies’ twist on the supernatural races; the necromancers are very well developed characters, and very intriguing. Tarian is a sexy gentleman, and I love the chemistry between Tarian and Melissa; their relationship feels real, not rushed; it took her a while to trust him after an unfortunate incident.

DYING TO DATE is a very intelligent paranormal romance; the world-building is stellar as is character development, and Melissa is a superb heroine, who gets to do things because Tarian lets her; he doesn’t want to do everything himself, he lets her do what she does best. DYING TO DATE has it all: a complex political suspense, multifaceted characters, a believable romance; nothing is rushed, and I loved the ending! All in all, simply put: DYING TO DATE is excellent!

A copy of this book was made available to me from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Jo.
957 reviews239 followers
November 18, 2015

Very interesting storyline, but the romance didn’t work for me.



description

Melissa Redgrave is a vampire and the daughter of Lucian Redgrave from book 1, Love at Stake. She is looking for love, tired of dating the wrong guy, and decides to get help from Fated Match, the biggest supernatural dating agency in New York.

Enter Tarian Drake, who decides to use the same dating agency. He is a necromancer, which he prefers to keep secret, as necromancers are seen as the monsters of the supernatural world due to their ability to control the dead, which includes vampires.

Melissa doesn’t know what species Tarian is, but she is so attracted to him that she doesn’t care. Tarian’s grandfather finds out about him dating Melissa and decides to kidnap Melissa to ransom her to her father Lucian to gain control of New York. And so the action starts.

I must say the plot of the story was very interesting, but I just could not like Tarian and Melissa as a couple, mostly due to Tarian. He goes to save Melissa, but on the way back he uses his ability to control Melissa like a puppet to keep her from escaping him. This was the major problem I had with their romance. She had absolute NO control over her body when a necromancer used their power over her, they could force her to do anything. Tarian also used his power at the end to keep Melissa from the main fighting event with his grandfather, forcing her to leave to ensure she doesn’t gets hurt. Also, through most of this book Tarian kept saying that Melissa wasn’t important enough, his sister, and the peace between necromancers and vampires was more important than Melissa to him. This kept me from believing that he really felt anything for her.

I loved the first book, and I like this author’s writing style, so I will definitely be reading more books by this author even though this one was not a favourite.


435 reviews5 followers
December 21, 2015
We were introduced to Melissa in Love at Stake. She is a vampire in search of her mate. The only problem is no one matches up with her. That’s right! She is finally able to sign up for the dating service but no one is even coming close to matching her. A chance meeting of Tarian in the lobby though has her wanting a date with him. He is game for a date with her as well. Too bad no one knows what kinda supernatural he is.

Necromancers have been persecuted to the brink of extinction. Tarian is not about to announce on a dating service that he is on. Knowing who Melissa’s daddy is doesn’t deter him from asking her out. The attraction is instant. Yet, he refuses to give into attraction alone. He is truly after his mate.

There are some necromancers who believe that their persecution is not warranted. Some who would do anything to get back into the supernatural community. Exile is just not for them. They want the vampire council to listen so they still Melissa- after all her daddy is on the council. Tarian rescues her- and gives her up to avoid another supernatural war.

Melissa at times got on my nerves, she was more of a woow is me gal in this tale. Last book she rocked of awesomeness. While she still can take care of herself, I got annoyed with her inner dialog. When Tarian tries to do the good thing, the best for the whole world thing, she gets mad at him. When Lucian tries to protect her, she resents him.

Tarian is truly swoon worthy. He wants to protect Melissa, his sister and all necromancers. He knows what war does to the supernatural community and to the human community.

Dying to Date is a fun fast read. It will have you laughing one minute and shaking your head the next.

My Rating 3 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote "All the fun of a human with the durability and lifespan of an immortal."

Other People
Lucian- Melissa’s vampire daddy
Abbey- Lucian’s human mate
Eilin- Tarian’s sister
Dominic- Tarian’s grandfather

http://readingcave.blogspot.com/2015/...
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,877 reviews134 followers
June 13, 2015
Rating: 4.5/5

I thoroughly enjoyed this paranormal novel! I enjoyed the idea of paranormal beings needing and using a dating agency. After all, if you’re going to live for eternity, finding your fated mate really is a must! One of the leading New York Vampire socialites is Melissa Redgrave and she’s had nothing but trouble finding her match, so she decides to use the agency - where her ‘father’s’ partner works. After being interviewed, she is leaving through he reception when Tarian Drake walks in . . . They can’t take their eyes off each other and are soon dating. However, Tarian is keeping his paranormal nature a secret. Necromancers aren’t only not tolerated, they are actively discriminated against by the other paranormals. Whilst this is unfair to them, some are plotting revenge - including Tarian’s grandfather. Whilst it is a romance, it is so much more - with potential war between the vampires and necromancers an imminent threat to them all. Read it to see what happens when Melissa is kidnapped and war threatens the whole paranormal community. Will love find a way or are they just too far apart?

This book is a great paranormal story in its own right. The idea of different paranormal groups, each having their own level in the paranormal hierarchy works brilliantly. So does the Council of Elders and as for the Fated Match dating agency!!! Superb. The characters, their roles within their own ‘race’ and within the paranormal society as a whole is brilliantly portrayed, making it easy to suspend disbelief and enter this world where the lines between good and evil are ready for total realignment. I was enthralled by the fantastic story telling by this author and really want to read more from her in future! Very highly recommended to anyone who likes either paranormal fiction or romance - or even both together in one fabulous story!

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kendra Needs.
1,185 reviews12 followers
June 23, 2015
It has been a while since I have read a paranormal romance and reading DYING TO DATE by Victoria Davies really brought back the love I had for this genre of books.

The story in this book is very well written and the plot is very well developed and fast paced and flows nicely through the whole book, I was turning pages like a vampire runs from the sun to get to the end of the book, it was that good, and will keep you guessing till the end of the book as to what is going to happen. The characters in this book are well written and the chemistry between Melissa and Tarian is amazing and if Melissa does not want Tarian then I will take him off her hands.

In this book we meet Melissa, the daughter of the high King of the vampires, and she is having trouble finding a "soul mate" so she decides to join Fated Match, a dating service for the supernatural in New York, after several failed attempts at dates she has just about given up when she meets Tarian and sparks fly from the first moment they meet. In this book we will see Tarian and Melissa start to date, but Melissa wonders why Tarian has left what supernatural he is off his application at Fated Match, and we all learn that its because he is a necromancer, he can control dead people. When people in Tarian's family learn that he is dating the daughter of the king of vampires, they decide to kidnap her in order to try and gain back some ground and be allowed back into New York. Will Tarian be able to save Melissa from his family before an all out war happens and will Melissa's give to her feelings and desires for Tarian????

DYING TO DATE by Victoria Davies was one of the best reads that I have read in a long while, if you enjoyed books by Kelley Armstrong then DYING TO DATE is a must read for you. I would give DYING TO DATE by Victoria Davies 4/5 fangs.
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews45 followers
June 19, 2015
Melissa Redgrave has the worst luck with men, Tarian Drake is looking for a mate, their each other’s perfect match until their families interfere and the events could put them on opposite sides of a war in this captivating paranormal romance.

To say that vampires and necromancers don’t get along would be an understatement which pits Melissa and Tarian against their families and wondering if they can trust each other which puts a very big obstacle in the way of finding out if they are mates but the chemistry between is hot enough to burn down the city and the reader can’t help but get caught up in all the fireworks and turmoil as these two try to work everything out to everyone’s satisfaction. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning while the fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.

Tension and expectation builds throughout the story as Tarian’s family causes quite a bit of mayhem including kidnapping Melissa in their conflict against the vampires which also causes quite a bit of emotional angst throughout the story that grips the heart as the characters are forced to make some very difficult decisions. The well written scenes and details capture the imagination while the suspense keeps everyone on edge and ensures that the readers can’t put the story down.

I was enthralled with Melissa and Tarian’s story from the very beginning and was quite surprised with the way the story played out in a couple of scenes as I was kind of expecting something else but to my delight it worked out in a much better way and now I’m wondering if the supernatural dating agency could find my Fated Match…hmmm.
Profile Image for Kelly Haggerty.
30 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2015
*I would like to thank Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGALLEY for giving me an unreleased copy for an honest and fair review.

Can Melissa forgive Tarian not telling of his Necromancy even after saving her from his grandfather’s evil plan…or is it too much even for mates?

Even though this is the second Fated Match novel; it is a standalone and I rate it 4 ½ on my rating scale. If you missed the first book Love at Stake (Entangled Covet) (Fated Match), you can easily go back and read it as it is also very good. The writing is engaging from the beginning of the book and I could not wait to finish it. The plot is unusual and has some interesting twists and turns. I like that Melissa is allowed to be a strong character and is allowed to see she might still love someone in spite of their issues loving her. It has some wickedly funny lines in it that make it fun to read also.

The characters are allowed to grow throughout the book and progress making them appealing and some even quirky. Previous characters you get enough information on them that you did not need to read about their story to make it necessary to this story to read. You will have to read to the end to see if all is forgiven or mates go their separate ways. It does have some steamy adult sex scenes in it also, so parents you make the call.

Is this novel for you? You think the vampires and necromancers are dead sexy. You like sexy steamy adult romance. You believe we all can get along, even vampires and necromancers. This might be just for you.

For more reviews:
Reading Room and Reviews by Kelly Haggerty


Profile Image for Barbara Desmond.
297 reviews14 followers
June 11, 2015
Got an ARC from Net Galley.

I must say I'm digging every Entangled book I've gotten my hands on. This is another great read for summer since I'm sure that a lot of readers might want to read shorter books during the hot days of summer. I don't really think about reading certain books at certain times during the year but I can see myself reading books like this during the summer.

I love her hair. Note to self: See if I can find that color so I can dye my hair. I really like this cover. This is the first book I've read by Victoria and I have to say it won't be the last. Color me not shocked that this is part of a series. Yes I continue to be a series magnet. This does seem to be the type of series where you don't really have to read it in order although I do prefer to do that. I will be checking out the first book soon.

It is amusing that there's a dating service for the immortals called Fated Match but it makes sense. I would imagine that if you're immortal you probably want to spend it with someone instead of being alone. Melissa signs up for the dating service and meets Tarian. Sparks fly and they start dating. He does keep a secret about himself from her. It is kind of like a take on Romeo and Juliet only with supernatural beings who are fighting with each other. Something happens to her which stirs up things and I have to say I was pretty hooked. Even if you aren't a big romance reader you just might enjoy this book if you love paranormal books. There's romance but it isn't the main focus of the book if that makes any sense.
Profile Image for Tracey.
1,474 reviews70 followers
June 16, 2015
Another book in the Fated Match series and this time it's Melissa's turn, Melissa is Lucians daughter and he is very protective, how would he feel about a necroromancer dating his daughter.... Necromancers can control the death races!

Melissa is a vampire and only a century old, but she's looking for a boyfriend, so she goes to fated match a dating service for paranormals. While she's there a very handsome man walks in.....

Tarian is an older man, he just happens to look no older than 30! His looking for a mate where else would he go to get help, you've got it Fated Match. What he didn't expect upon entering the offices is seeing a gorgeous woman.

More about the characthers

Tarian stays true to his characther all through the story and he was a great leading man, I liked everything about him, his straight talking, his very pleasing looks and the way he wanted to look after Melissa, he also made me swoon at the end of the book.

Melissa, she's a strong woman, she knows what she wants, she also has standards and believes trust very important, could she ever really trust a necromancer? Melissa makes him work for her, she knows she wants him forever but can she admit it to herself.

I found this book very entertaining and would have read in one sitting if life had let me!

The story is a romance mixed in with danger from Tarian's world.

I look forward to reading more books in this series and authors other works.

4.5 stars

**I received an arc for an honest review**



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