Alasdair

Masters Among Monsters #1

by Ella Frank, Bruce Cullen (Reading)

A DANGEROUS ALLURE
Bestowed with eternal life by the Ancient Vasilios, Alasdair Kyriakous is one of the most feared and ruthless vampires in existence. His name carries weight across all of the seven continents.

But he is a mystery to his kind, an anomaly among the self-indulgent. While he enjoys the pleasures of the flesh, he is exceptionally particular in his choice of partners and prides himself on his ironclad self-control.

Yet with one look his control will become a thing of the past, and Alasdair will discover that eternal life doesn’t always last forever…

A DEADLY ATTRACTION
Thrust into a world he could never have imagined, Leo Chapel awakens in his worst nightmare. Taken hostage by the dangerously mesmerizing vampire, Alasdair, Leo must rely on his intelligence to escape before he reveals a secret he isn’t even aware he’s hiding.

A FORBIDDEN DESIRE
Unaware that they’ve been brought together by an outside force and are little more than pawns to a higher power, Alasdair and Leo spend time trying to uncover the other’s secrets, the attraction between them growing stronger all the while.

But enemies are watching and preparing to act against them. When decisions that will alter lives and destinies have to be made—can a dead, grey heart learn to beat again?

Genres: M M Romance, Paranormal, Vampires, Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Erotica

328 pages, Paperback

First published October 13, 2015

About the author

Ella Frank is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Temptation series, including Try, Take, and Trust and is the co-author of the fan-favorite Preslocke series. Her Prime Time series has been praised as “highly entertaining!” and “sexy as hell!”

A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.​Ella is represented by:

Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
​kimberly@browerliterary.com

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars



When I first decided to read this book, I had no idea what it was about. I hadn’t read the blurb. I didn’t know it was a paranormal story and I didn’t know it was M/M. It’s a good thing I like to read a little bit of everything. I really just wanted to read it because I’ve loved most everything I’ve read of Ella Frank’s. This story started off a little slow for me, but once it picked up towards the last half, I couldn’t put it down.

Alasdair is a complex character. He’s an older vampire and he’s particular. One night he meets a human named Leo. For the first time, he see’s a human for more than just food or sex. He’s not sure why this human has this effect on him, but he does. Leo has no idea what to make of Alasdair or this world he’s suddenly been pulled into. He knows that Alasdair is dangerous, but part of him can’t find it in him to want to stay away. He seems to be as equally drawn to Alasdair.

“I can hear your pulse,” the stranger informed him in a silky tone. “Thump, thump, thump. It’s a beautiful melody. Is it from fear, I wonder? Or perhaps something more basic in nature. Something more… sexual.”

Alasdair is a super steamy story. I’m not sure if I would call it a romance, although I do see it going in that direction. This first book was missing some of that for me. I love Ella’s writing as always, but I wanted a little more love and connection. The story I liked, especially towards the end, but there were things that confused me- just a lot going on. The ending of Alasdair definitely left me wanting more and I’m antsy to see where their story goes.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** Absolutely loved this!! ***





Sexy,Greek Vampires...yes please!!

I saw a friend's review for this and when I saw it was Ella Frank and M/M I was sold !!!!

There have been a few PNR series I've read and enjoyed but the thing that puts me off them is that I find it takes a while to get into them.There always seems to be so much information,scene setting and a lot of characters thrown at you.I'm happy to say that's not the case here.I was hooked straight away with this one.

Alasdair is an extremely powerful vampire,second only to Vasilios.One night he spots a human,Leo, although he can't understand why, he is drawn to him.He watches him for 2 weeks before making his move to feed from him
Something happens that he wasn't prepared for and at a loss to understand it he takes Leo captive...





Leo sees himself as an ordinary young man and finds himself thrown into a completely alien world.But despite his fear and uncertainty at what is happening he can't help but be fascinated by Alasdair.
The story is captivating as we come to question is Leo all he seems??





I've noticed a few people have commented on the lack of romance in this.To be honest it didn't bother me,in fact I think a romantic element at this stage wouldn't have worked here.What I will say is that it's extremely erotic.Surprisingly,for this Author,the full on sex scenes are sparse.But I found the sexual tension off the charts hot!! I'm normally all about lots of well written sex scenes in my books but sometimes the sexual tension can be hotter than descriptive sex and that certainly was the case here.

I just absolutely loved everything about this book and January can't come soon enough.

If you're interested in reading it check out the link for the book trailer

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=EwgYUMS...

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing story <333 I'm so happy that I find time to re-read it <33 If you haven't read it yet check this brilliant,captivating,super hot , story!!!

AMAZON - http://amzn.to/1NIgHcx
B&N - http://bit.ly/1N751kG
KOBO - http://bit.ly/1MHgdo3
iBOOKS - http://apple.co/1MFI2gC

5 BRILLIANT STARS

I feel so honored that Ella trusted me to beta read this amazing book!!! As a huge fan of Ella's, I always admired her ability to write amazing stories. This one wasn't an exception! It's simply brilliant and captivating!I devoured it and I can't wait to read it again! I loved the world she created and I was invested in the story! I can't choose just one character because simply I loved them all even the secondary! Get ready for hot Greek vampires that will steal your heart! A steamy, captivating, mysterious story with suspense and twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Can't wait for you friends to finally read it <33

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

A lot can happen when he sun dips down and the moon comes out to play...

Ella Frank is a chameleon of genres. The woman is a damn genius is what she is. Whether it be contemporary, MM, Urban Fantasy, and now PNR, it seems like she really cannot do any wrong. I had no idea what to expect when I picked this book up, but I knew two things for sure:
1. Ovary survival was not guaranteed
2. I was gonna enjoy the hell of out it.

Alasdair is part 1 of what's planned to be a series of three books and boy does it lure the reader in. Greek mythology, vampires, and sizzling hot sex. Intrigued? As you should be.

Truth be told, I'm always hesitant with the first book in a PNR series because almost always it will suffer what I refer to as a case of the firsts. What I mean is, between the introduction of all the characters, the world building, and everything in between, I often find myself taking a while to get into the story and wrap my mind around everything. I was beyond thrilled and not a little surprised that that wasn't the case here. I was sucked into the book immediately. The character development, the rich world building, the unbelievably sizzling sexual tension is what made this book the unputdownable read that it was.

You get a perverse kind of pleasure out of this, don't you?"
"Out of?"
"My confusion. My fear. It turns you on, right? What kind of sick fuck are you?"
"Is that a trick question? I'm not a person, Leonidas. I'm vampire. That's the kind of sick fuck I am."

Alasdair is a first sired; one of the most powerful vampires in existence second only to his sire; Vasilios. Ruthless, unapologetic, and with a magnetic sexual appeal there's not much in life that Alasdair doesn't have. His face has lured plenty a human to their death while experiencing a pleasure unlike any they've ever experienced. But he's also a vampire of particular tastes. Being alive for centuries has ensured that not just anyone experiences the pleasure of receiving his carnal attentions. But then one human changes everything...

Leonidas Chapel is thrust in a world unlike any he's ever imagined existed. But worst of all? He's inexplicably drawn to his captor. Alasdair stirs not only his blood but there's clearly a connection between them that raises quite a few questions.

There's quite a few fascinating secondary characters that are introduced here that I can't wait to find out more about; Isadora, Elias, Vasilios, Thanos. I was also captivated by the greek mythology that seems to wrap around this particular take on vampires.

What I really loved about this book was the way that Ella managed to maintain the focus on the couple while building a world of intriguing secondary characters around them all without ever having it be too much. You get a little more of their world piece by piece but it happens as the connection between Alasdair and Leo takes place. I loved the dynamic of that. Having read quite a few PNR series in my day, I can tell you that it rarely happens when a first in a series sucks me in the way this book did.

Fair warning though, this book will put your ovaries through the ringer. Ella gives the term sexual tension new meaning, I swears. The burn! The burn! It hurt so good. Even when I felt like I might implode if they don't do it soon. It only served to stoke the fire even higher when it did happen. There's nothing better for me in romance than the burn of sexual tension leading up to the main event and boy does it burn in this one. I didn't know whether to cry, rage, or ice my ovaries? But damn if I didn't love every agonizing second of it.

Book two will focus on a different character while continuing to build on the story and mystery that began in this one. I'm well and truly hooked, so bring it on Miss Frank. Bring. It. On.

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

For more reviews visit

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ~ 3.75 STARS

”A lot can happen when the sun dips down and the moon comes out to play...”



To be fair, this is my fifth MM book and so I’m not the greatest judge of this genre. Topple that with the paranormal aspect and flashbacks to Ancient Greece, and what exactly is happening not explained yet and I’m left a bit uncertain about it all.



I definitely love Ella Frank’s writing, but struggled with both of the heroes always pulling or jerking themselves. I swear I thought one of them would lose a body part from all the tugging that went on in this story. Still, if you love MM reads then I’m assuming the scenes will quench your thirst.

The story line is odd as the ancient vampires are connected to one younger one and in this case Alasdair finds himself greatly drawn to a human named Leo who seems to be dangerous to him and vice versa.

"Alasdair was spot on. Sexual arousal had overtaken his sanity and he wanted to be fucked by Alasdair. Even if it meant his possible death."

It appears that this vampire little circle is in danger not sure the whys or what fors but that’s the gist of the story line. Alasdair has two cousins who are his pals, Isadora and Thanos. They felt like those three from that old Superman movie to me.

[image error]

Alasdair belongs to Vasilios and they are very hot and heavy lovers for what seems to be almost 2000 years. Leo could possibly be dangerous because he has been having flashbacks of Alasdair’s life but doesn’t understand the whys of it all and Vasilios seems interested in either killing Leo or adding him to his and Alasdair’s bed. So perhaps going forward these characters become a MMM story line.

Regardless, I went into this book because friends have been raving about Isadora’s story releasing very soon and so I’ll reserve my judgment on the story line as a whole till I try the next book.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

“A lot can happen when the sun dips down and the moon comes out to play…”

Alasdair is one of the most feared beings in his realm, he is a predator with unnatural self-control who has seen and done it all. At his age there is not much that can excite, entice or intrigue him, until of course he catches sight of Leonidas. This one mortal, should be nothing more than beautiful prey, but somehow this man's touch manages to bring him to his knees. Obsessed with finding the reasons why, he won't stop until he sates his need for blood, body and answers.

“I like how it feels to hunt you down. To toy with you. To tease you until you’re begging for it.”

With his life on the line, Leonidas comes to the realization that there is much more at play here than a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Confused beyond belief, he is faced with a beautiful brutal man who "was every wicked thought and fantasy Leo could have imagined." He demands answers as much as Alasdair, but neither are prepared for the answer.

Alasdair is one big sensual seduction, heavy on the sexual tension which sparked my vivid imagination. While there was a insta-attraction, there is no insta-love, I'd label it more as insta-hate. Hate for each other for the way they impact each other and hate for themselves for feeling that way towards the other. The story is told in a way that we got to be in each of their minds, knowing their thoughts, their suspicions and their lust.

Alasdair and Leo are complete opposites, and the contrast only adds another layer to this mystery of a tale. The pace of the book was a slow steady, the flashbacks was on the slower end for me and it just made me look forward to the present day filled with tension and heat. There is more to come featuring new main characters, but the overall plot line continues where we left off, I'll be continuing on just not immediately.

***By the way, I totally grabbed this book based off of the series name "Masters Among Masters" <3!

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Sexy Vampire Stars!






ALASDAIR was one of those books I went into with zero expectations. In fact, I'd expected not to like it. Somewhere in the blog tour sign-up, I'd missed the fact that this is a paranormal book. I guess my eyes focused in on Ella Frank and MM and everything else seemed to fade to gray. Anywho, this is one of those times I went outside my typical reading comfort zone and found myself refreshingly pleased in the outcome. I'm not going to say there wasn't a fair number of text messages to a certain French buddy ***waves to Stephanie*** with oodles of inquiries into the world of vampires because obviously this genre is fairly complex. Twilight doesn't hold a candle to this sh*t. But I digress...onto the review.







Alasdair is a very controlled, choosey-in-his-prey vampire. When he sets eyes on a certain human walking the streets one dark night, he's immediately drawn to him...his scent. He finds himself coming back to his home over and over, stalking him until one night he enters his apartment and introduces himself. What he did not expect is that Leo is NOT what he thought he was- though his insane draw to him he cannot withstand. Who's under whose spell?

"You get a perverse kind of pleasure out of this, don't you?"

"Out of?"

"My confusion. My fear. It turns you on, right? What kind of sick fuck are you?"

"Is that a trick question? I'm not a person, Leonidas. I'm vampire. That's the kind of sick fuck I am."

ALASDAIR weaves a pretty complex story within a family of vampires suddenly finding themselves threatened by an unknown enemy. Nothing is as it seems and Ms Frank had me turning the pages at a feverish pace trying to figure out the spin within this plot. But how can the reader figure it out when the characters are as dumbfounded as we are? Who is the enemy? And who will die first?





ALASDAIR is erotic, spellbinding, and captures the reader almost immediately within the first few pages. Leo's world is turned upside down when his life as he knows it, things he'd only thought were imaginary come to life before him. Worse yet, why is he feverishly attracted to a being, A VAMPIRE, he knows can and will kill him with the bite of his fangs? His career studies are in Ancient Greek mythology and he finds himself almost time traveling to those days as flashbacks, a voyeur in this sexy world of vampires. Are these some weird kind of flashbacks or just nightmares? But everything is so real...erotic...terrifying.






Steam factor- well, beware as this is the mother load of sexual build-up. There isn't actually a lot of sexual scenes in the book but my ovaries didn't notice the difference. Gah- they fought it. Boy did they fight it. But when it happens- steaming!

" Is that what you want, Leonidis? To lie on your back, spread your legs, and let me inside you whenever I desire? Or how about we skip the bed all together and I take you against whatever is near? Hmm? Are you sure your cock isn't speaking for your head, file mou? Because, yes. Se thelo. And if I have you, I will not let you go until I am done."

I have to admit on more than one occasion, I found myself a bit befuddled by the events and the complex nature of this erotic paranormal romance. The book is delivered in multiple POVs with several different characters that appear to be casted in the next two books. Ella Frank trickle-fed details that gradually come together and leaves us with one helluva cliffhanger. I anxiously look forward to more steamy man-on-man vampire action, spellbinding suspense and all that Ms. Frank has proven to deliver over her writing years. Until then...










Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.

[~Mindy Lynn~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5*
I absolutely loved Ella's Temptation series so I can't believe I'm gonna say this but, I didn't really like the book. If I wasn't left being confused I was bored.


Oh, but I am.



With all the high ratings and the great reviews and of course it being an Ella Frank book I thought for sure I had a great read ahead of me. But that ended up not being the case.



This book was like one big case of blue balls. There is so much sexual tension built up through this book between Leo and Alasdair, but when it finally came to them succeeding in their sexual release I found it very unsatisfying.

And this sort of three way thing that was going on...

I must have read the blurb wrong because I was under the impression this was a Vampire Romance between Leo and Alasdair. But here came Vasilious to ruin that for me.


There was a lot of back and forth of Alasdair demanding Leo to tell him what he was and Leo claiming he didn't know and then Alasdair calling him a liar. It seemed like this conversation was on repeat. It happened often and with no new answers. It left me feeling like nothing was happening and nothing was moving forward.


I wish there was more revealed on what was actually going on here instead of a lot of talk about cocks and erections, especially since there was barely any actual sex happening. Just a lot of talk about a lot of nothing that got the story nowhere for me.

It was all very anticlimactic and I doubt I will continue with the series because not only is it not about Leo and Alasdair, it's about a character I didn't even care for. In all honesty I didn't care much about any of the characters and that is not only disappointing but it makes me a bit sad because I REALLY wanted to love this. It's unfortunate that didn't happen.

[Elsbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

BR, October 13th with Julie and Momo.

*omorfo mou agóri*

And this people is how you write vampires!!! It was frikkin AWESOME.. I loved every part of it.
If you think you’ll be reading another Tate and Logan story you are mistaken cause there’s no romance here!! This is raw vampire lust.



Alasdair was ready to eat Leonidas in every way possible!!

Alasdair



Leonidas



I’m not going to say anything about the plot but then that it’s fast, the world building is great and the mystery…. My gawd, I’m still thinking plot-wise, about what the hell happened and what is going to happen the next installments!!



Probably a lot of people hate Vasilios. Vasilios is one of the three ancient vampires. De one who sired Alasdair. Nope, not me.. Vasilios is brutal but ohhhhh so sexy, damnnnn…

The sexual tension between Vasilios, Alasdair and Leo was delicious and January can not come fast enough!!

So Ella Frank, get writing girl!!

*HIGHLY RECOMMENDED*

************************************************************

Post Facebook, August 25th

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



"I'd be inside your body. Your mind. Sometimes both."

Ella Frank has always been on my list of authors that I MUST read and one-click. I have practically read all her books and always found myself devouring every book. When I first heard that she was releasing a new book titled Alasdair, I knew I had to read this book stat. In all honesty, I knew this book was going to be a paranormal/supernatural romance but I didn't know it was going to be an M/M vampire book. Well since Ella was the first author who popped my M/M cherry with TRY, I think it was fitting that she popped my first M/M paranormal erotic book.

"This man was all the things he shouldn't want, but as Alasdair continued to stroke his lip, all Leo could think about was him replacing that finger with his mouth."



Alasdair was dangerously spellbinding and alluring!!! Ella takes her readers on a sexy bewitching journey of intrigue, suspense, and hot sensual erotic vampire love. When Alasdair meets Leo, a human, he couldn't understand the tangible and palpable bond that he had to him. There was something about Leo that made him want and need him. And as for Leo, he is well aware that Alasdair is dangerous but a part of him lust and craves him. Will this pull that Leo has for Alasdair be a deadly attraction that will alter the course of his life?

"Alasdair was spot on. Sexual arousal had overtaken his sanity and he wanted to be fucked by Alasdair. Even if it meant his possible death."

Alasdair wouldn't be your typical paranormal romance book since I felt this wasn't quite a love story with your standard HEA. But I thought it was brilliant that Ella Frank wrote and told the book the way she did. She allowed readers to feel the palpable sexual tension and desire of the characters. Alasdair was a well executed paranormal book that had elements of lust, suspense, mystery, and forbidden desire that were integrated in the story. So if you are looking for a hot, sensual, steamy M/M paranormal book with sexy Greek vampires, then Alasdair is the book for you!!! I can't wait for book 2 and see what Ella Frank has in store for the other characters.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Ella Frank

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 “Thelo na se gamiso” Stars!

Alasdair Kyriakous is a devastatingly handsome vampire with dark hair and emerald green eyes. He is a direct sire of one of the ancients known as Vasilios; thereby also making him very powerful. Along with Alasdair, his two cousins, Isadora and Thanos, are also direct sires which makes these three a potent trinity. With news of a potential threat to the ancients and their first sires, they must act quickly to uncover and eliminate the danger.

Leonidas (Leo) Chapel is an archeologist specializing in the study of ancient Greece. As he is preparing for special museum exhibition of Greek mythology and architecture, Leo decides to unwind at the local bar. While leaving the bar, Alasdair sees Leo and is immediately drawn to the blonde man with boyish good looks, so he decides to follow him home for a snack of sorts. However, Alasdair’s body has an unusual reaction to Leo that only strengthens his attraction to him but that pull toward him may prove to be deadly for either of them.

“I wanted to taste you on my tongue, file mou. Consume that which flows through your veins. It was an obsession. It still is.”

What ensues is a story of attraction and the sexual tension between Alasdair and Leo is off the charts! Additionally, the mystery of Leo’s role and those who want to kill the ancients is intriguing. With the combination of ancient Greek myths and vampires in a contemporary setting, the story is engaging and I am so curious to see how all the characters and storylines will intersect. Keep in mind, this book is not a standalone and ends in a bit of a cliffhanger. I look forward to moving onto book two in the series!

Masters Among Monsters Series:
Third book: Thanos


*Note: This book was part of a BR during M/M week with the Shhluts! Consider my “M/M” v-card punched! lol! Special thanks to S for helping to translate 'Θέλω να σε γαμήσω.'

[Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️



Every now and then I like to indulge in the M/M genre and Ella Frank is an author my friends keep recommending if I want some male on male action. So when I heard she was coming up with a PNR one, I jumped on the occasion.



I mean, vampires are hot, right? But 2 males vampires together? One innocent historian nerd? Could I really say no to that?

Alasdair was such a nice surprise, I’m glad my perverted and adventurous side pushed me to read it, it was everything it promised to be. Captivating and alluring, I read Alasdair in one sitting, if you don’t count the moment I had to leave the family room to continue reading in another room, this book was so deliciously filthy I felt dirty reading in the same room as my kid.



Everything in Alasdair is meant to entice and arouse. From the way Ella Frank chose to narrate the story, you can’t just read this as an outsider. I could feel the characters desire, tension and frustration and enjoyed every little morsel the author was throwing my way.



I’m not going to say much about the story here, as I think it would be best enjoyed if you can go into it as blind as you can. What I can tell you is that Alasdair was a mysterious and suspenseful story, mixing efficiently the paranormal factor to greek mythology. And as you probably understood, some damn good erotica.



I really don’t feel like I should tell you more about the story, just download the book sample and I promise you, you’ll be hooked from page 1 and will have no other choice but to read the rest.

Just a warning though, actually make it 2 warnings.

First, if you are expecting some kind of romance here, you’re mistaken. This was pure raw sexual tension, lust and eroticism all the way. I wouldn’t have hoped any less for a vampire story, brutal and rough is the way to go!

Secondly, if you are not to keen on cliffhangers (but who likes them?) then I’ll suggest you to hold off until the next book, because the way Alasdair ended nearly killed me.

It surely opened an array of questions and possibilities for the next installment and I can’t wait to read Isadora’ story!





Arc offered in exchange for an honest review

More reviews and book talk at :

You can find me here too ☞

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke has just been 'accidentally' kidnapped by an ancient greek vampire.
Only he doesn't know that. At first he thought he was dreaming, which he kind of was, only it wasn't really a dream - Alasdair invaded his thoughts...
Now he's being held in this room for who knows how long already.
He's scared as hell - but also fascinated - he's an archeologist, after all.

It wasn't supposed to be like that. Alasdair has been drawn to this pretty guy for weeks now, and he was about to do things to him, when he was summoned by the Ancients...and you do NOT miss one of those summons. But Alasdair did, and he is being punished, and almost killed for days, while poor Luke is sitting in that room, with no idea why and where and who and what.

After recovering from being tortured by his sire, he wants to see Luke asap. He's fascinated by this human. Only he's not a normal human. Things happen when they kiss and when he tastes his blood. Very weird things.

Luke and his two archeological buddies might have something to do with some bad beings wanting to rid the world of Alasdair and his vampire family. Only Luke and Paris and Elias don't know a thing about it.

Well, at least Luke doesn't remember anything.....

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO Luke & Alisdair??
WILL THE TWO OF THEM HAVE A CHANCE FOR A HEA???
Or will Luke be killed by this gorgeous vampire?
WILL THERE BE A HORRIBLE CLIFFHANGER?



I'm not telling you that of course ☺



Cliffy?? Hm, yeah kinda ☺☺☺

═════════════════════════════════





I really enjoyed this story.
And I'm not a fan of paranormal stuff.
I read Twilight and I love the Black Dagger Series (no idea why, because I really hate paranormal - but if I HAVE to read about supernatural beings, they better be vampires!!!)

I just had to read this book - because...hello?? ..... Logan & Tate!!!!!
I'm such a huuuuge fan of Ella's Temptation series, and when I heard that her new paranormal series would have some hot male on male action... I just had to read it.

And I liked it. I didn't LOVE the story - but that's probably just because I'm not a paranormal fan.

What I also missed was a bit of explanation and description and location.
There's nothing like ... I don't even know - other Vampire stories describe in detail how the sexy guy walks through the beautiful city of Florence or Forks ☺
But here we don't get any descriptions :/ I don't even know where we are.

BUT - I really liked Luke & Alisdair, and the others.
It's a really sexy and suspensy story - with poor Luke and the poor reader always knowing that he probably will be killed by this hot vampire or his buddies.....☺ Hoping for a HEA.

VERY SEXY moments happen in this book - with two or more people involved!!! ☺

If you like Vampires & really hot m/m romances!!! GO GET THIS BOOK!!!! You'll probably want your own Luke & Alasdair after reading it ☺ ☺ ☺

and now please hurry - I NEEEEED to read book #2 - I have to know what will happen to everybody!

[Lelyana's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friendly warning : this book contains M/M, M/M/M, M/F, F/F, this is not a pure romance.
If this kind of story is not your liking, please DO NOT read this one.

"Things you cannot imagine,
I can give it to you..."

*** ELLA "FREAKIN' DEVIL" FRANK!***

This book is SERIOUSLY DIFFERENT from Ella's other books.
I thought I will see the different kind of Tate and Logan, but alas! It's NOT!
I never thought the day that I see myself saying, three is not a crowd !
Ella Frank, woman ! You did something very very very dirty, raunchy and naughty. You're a BAD,BAD girl!

This is book you wouldn't mind reading sex with audience, sex with stranger, and never feel the sexes are overwhelmed and took off the main story.
The mystery is awesome, the writing is great, with a fast patch, I cannot put down.

This is a very different experience for me with Ella's books.
Alasdair, Leonidas and even Vasilios are sexy as fuck ! Did I mind? Nope.Nope.Nope.

The ending was like...OMG! I want that to happen! ...or not.
No matter what, anything is very welcome here Ella!

Love the story !
You hurry up girl ! Let the rest of the series out! NOW!

Recommended!

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you read my profile, you know I don't read PNR books.
When I heard about Ella Frank's new book I hoped it was M/M but I would never imagine it could be M/M AND PNR.
But if I can handle PNR it's the vampire kind. So I was a little relieved when I read the blurb.

“A lot can happen when the sun dips down and the moon comes out to play…”

Alasdair was a compelling and captivating story, just as much as a vampire is devilishly handsome.
The book is filled with vampires and if you didn't already know it, there's nothing more beautiful than a vampire.

Alasdair is an old vampire well known for his patience and the way he chooses his next prey.
It's been now two weeks that he set his eyes on a guy and when it's finally time to cut the chase and to feed, something goes wrong. It's like the other guy's blood paralyzes him.

Alasdair is not one to make a hasty decision but his attention is picked. So he has no other choice than to take him with him.
Leo is an historian and he might become crazy with all these research he's been doing. This go all too far as to have nightmares. But this goes even further when his own nightmare materializes in front of him.

"But this isn’t a nightmare, and you want to know a secret?”
“What happens in here also happens out there.”

Like I said this book is captivating from the start. Ella's writing pulls you right away in this mysterious and dangerous world and I couldn't put the book down.

Both Alasdair and Leo perplex situation was confusing. Neither of them understands what's happening and they were in the dark as much as I was. I was so absorbed, and as everything comes into light, other questions arise.

“I am drawn to you, Leonidas. I cannot seem to leave you be.”

Two men in a book means one hell of good time but they are also more people involved. When lust, hunger, jealousy and sexual tension are mixed that gives us some very steamy moments where you are left wanting a cold shower.

As the story progress, it was obvious to me this couldn't be a stand-alone. I have to admit I didn't see it coming. Ella introduced us in an environment, a whole particular world and I thought at first it was all about the same main characters. Though I have to selfishly admit I wanted it too.

That being said, Ella's magic happened again and I want to be in her head to see what she has in store with this story and how everything will wrap up.

~Teaser from author~


~ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review~

[Bonnie-Anne Carmichael (Love Triangles Are Fucking Stupid.) · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF.

YUCK. YUCK. YUCK.

The hero Alasdair has multiple sexual scenes with another man, (the other man being his sire who he is bound to and has been fucking for centuries) and the other hero, Leo actually gets fucking turned on watching Alasdair and his sire being sexual with each other. And then there is threesome scenes between all three of them as well. Yeah no fucking thank you.


I'm so fucking mad and disgusted. I wanted to love this like I loved Logan and Tates story. But this is just gross. Eugh. I hate when blurbs make it sound like a story between TWO people when it's actually really not. Rage is me.

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't want to say to much about the plot, because I think going into this one blind is best.

I will let you know how I personally felt about this one...which is also hard because I'm a bit confused about my feelings.

I really enjoyed reading this one...the story pulled me in from the very first page and I could just not stop reading. It was so intriguing and the suspence and mystery was so good. I loved this world that Ella Frank built. I also loved all the characters ... they all play their own part in this story. I think that's a very good way to start the first book...since different characters will be centered as mc's for the next books....at least that's what I've been told.

The sexual tension in this one was also delicious.

Still I can't give it 5 stars. The reason for that would be, that I wanted and thought is was gonna read an mm romance and that is not exactly what this is. There is no romance in this boom whatsoever. There is lust and desire...so it's erotic, but it's not romantic.

Another reason I can't give it 5 stars is the mmm factor in this book. I'm just not a big fan of threesomes or threeways or love triangles (but without the love in this case). That stuff just doesn't do it for me and even manages to irritate the hell out of me.

So what I'm trying to say is that I loved the storyline...the mystery...the characters. As a paranormal book is was amazing ! I just didn't like the relationship between Alasdair and Valisios...and eventually even Leonidis.

I also hated the ending...for obvious reasons. I hate cliffhangers in general, there was no form of closure to this one and I really didn't like the implications in the end.

I don't know if I will be reading the next boom because it's about Isadora and I'm not really interested in her story. I think I will just wait for the reviews, before I decide.

4 stars from me :))

If you like vampires, paranormal, great sexual tension and mystery, you should difinitely read this one.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I popped my M/M cherry with Ella Frank's Try. So when I found out that she has a new M/M series coming, I'm over the freaking moon. However, this one very different from her previous series, as this is a PNR, with less romance and more erotic in nature.

There is quite a world building we have here. Although I have read countless of PNR, Ella still manage to make her own unique world with the vampires and their deadly sire. I'm fascinated with their power, their relationship dynamic and what the human's role in all this.

Alasdair is the first sired of one of the three Ancients, Vasilio. They have this weird master/protege and lover dynamic. They seems to have an unbreakable bond that makes me worry for Alasdair, for how is he going to break free from Vasilio's hold.

Leo Chapel is a human, he is a curator working in a museum. Just hearing his job, we knew there is something more to him than just a mere helpless human. When Alasdair targeted Leo for his next meal, he didn't expect the human to held such a power over him. Alasdair was left baffled by what happened and decided to find out the truth behind Leo Chapel's identity.

Overnight, Leo's life turn upside down by this extremely deadly yet fascinating vampire that got all his blood pumping south. Honestly, with all the lust going with Leo, I felt like he lost all common sense and self preservation when it comes to Alasdair.



I enjoyed Alasdair, as it was highly suspenseful that keep me at the edge of my seat, basically just couldn't tears my eyes off the train wreck that is Alasdair and Leo's circumstances.

As for as this first installment is concern, there isn't much romance per se, but I'm definitely counting on Ella to bring on the love concoction later in the series. This ended with a cliffhanger and the next one is titled 'Isadora'. I had no idea what Ella had in store for us, but I want more of Alasdair and Leo!

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I originally read this back in 2015. I gave it 4* and enjoyed it. I always intended to continue on with the series once the next book was out. But time got away from me and I found myself having to do a re-read in order to catch up.

And here’s the problem. I stuck with it but I was bored. Completely bored out of my mind. I’m amazed I gave it 4* originally.

Original review - 4*

Not a romance but it's still an intriguing read.

Let me start by saying this is not your typical romance or even a romance at all and if you start this book expecting one you will be sadly disappointed.
I noticed a friend had marked this to read so I thought I'd check it out but after seeing all the reviews I decided not to bother, however my friend absolutely loved it and gave it 5 stars so I looked again.
I wasn't sure exactly what to expect and it's a difficult book to categorise, Alasdair Kyriakous is an old, feared and powerful vampire and he finds himself inexplicably drawn to Leo Chapel, a human, he can't stay away he tries and fails and then he feeds from Leo....
Strange things happen between Leo and Alasdair and neither one of them has any idea what's going on.
This is a highly erotic read the tension builds and we're teased and tormented but surprisingly there's little actual sex but this works and works well.
The story drives the book and it's an intriguing read but I missed the romance even though and I can't believe I'm saying this but the book worked better without it, doesn't mean I didn't want it or missed it but it's a stronger read without it, if that makes any sense at all.
I liked the history of the vampires, even the brutality, which surprised me, and all the characters, I loved Alasdair and Leo plus the story which slowly reveals itself.
So what didn't I like?
The cliffhanger and this is a big one so now I'm left waiting for the next book.

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting, but it wasn't this. Ella Frank created a paranormal world complete with terrifying vampires and rife with mystical wonders. This story was rich in Greek culture and history and I enjoyed every minute of it!!

Although this story covered many characters and their side stories, at its heart was Alasdair and Leo. Leo was the curator of the National Museum and Alasdair was the 2000+ year old vampire who failed to kill him. Almost immediately, Alasdair feels an intense connection to Leo and can't seem to leave him alone. Not that Leo was bothered by that because he was also insanely drawn to Alasdair.

Strange things happened when these two men kissed (I can't tell you what or it would ruin things). Their lives are linked in ways beyond imagining. Leo must decide which is most important: following his destiny or his heart.

Be prepared for a lot of crotch grabbing. No, not you. Leo just had a penchant of doing this. He couldn't leave his junk alone. Then again, there were many situations that occurred that make this understandable. You'll see when you read the book!

Release Date: October 13, 2015
Genre: Paranormal Romance (centered around a M/M relationship)
POV: Multiple - 3rd person
Steam: 4 out of 5
Series or standalone: Book 1 of the Masters Among Monsters series

*A copy was generously provided for an honest review

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let me preface with this. If you're looking for a gothic, sweeping, claiming love story, you're not going to get it here. This is definitely not your garden variety, vampire romance, and I have to give Frank points for originality. This is actually a start to what seems like an epic battle, full of mystery and revealing very little. So basically, take this as a stepping stone for the first in a planned trilogy and maybe you won't be as frustrated as I was, since I thought it was mostly a stand alone in a loosely linked series.

Alasdair is ruthless like any 2000 year old vampire would be. He sees who he wants and takes them without apology. That includes Leo, a human that has elicited a curious response in him that he's rarely felt. However, Leo's blood paralyzes instead of energizes and the enigma surrounding that starts a chain reaction that brings about some serious consequences - unfolding a frightening plan to annihilate all vamps.

If you avoided Frank due to her tendency towards a lot of smex, this was not the case here (which I honestly missed). Make no mistake that the UST is off the charts but insta-love it is not. It's more gawd you're so f*#@ing hot and terrifyingly scary but I can't stop thinking about you going out of my mind want your cock so bad please claim me I'm dying of severe horniness.

Still, I'm intrigued because there are a lot of questions left unanswered, and this literally ends on a cliffhanger. Sooooo that pretty much guarantees I'll be reading the next book despite the fact that it's going to be M/F. Yeah. You read that right.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hummm... HOT ...Vampire!!

[Jilly · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are into delayed gratification and a very long buildup to the sex, this book is for you. If you are impatient and hate cliffys, it may not be.

I spent half of this book wondering what the hell is going on. What is Leo? Why is his blood toxic to vampires? Why is he having visions? Is he an alien or superhero (cuz that would be cool)? Or is it something less cool, like gonorrhea?


okay, that would be interesting...

I spent the other half of the book chanting in my head, "do it, do it, do it!!" But, damn if they DIDN'T do it. Sure, the vamp guy did it with another dude, but the main couple.... maybe by the last page. Maybe. It was frustrating!


aaand that solves that problem!

And, speaking of the last page... Don't you dare end this book on this note! There better be some damn more pages somewhere, or an epilogue or something!


sad owl is sad that it ended without telling us anything...I hope you're happy, Ella Frank!

[Sophie's Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whaaaat? This is how it ends?? I'm jumping into Isadora immediately! !

Full review to come.

[Meags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

This woman is a master among genres. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the thing I admire most about Frank’s work, which ensures that I always come back for more, is that she’s continually pushing the envelope by endeavouring to tackle new genres of storytelling with each subsequent book she writes. I class this particular story firmly in the paranormal realm of reading, with the emergence of some intriguing ties to Greek mythology. In general, these are two genres that continually fascinate me in my reading endeavours; paired with the fact that this was written by an author who I truly believe can do no wrong, my enjoyment was almost guaranteed.

Although there seem to be some seriously diverse reactions to this book among readers, I personally enjoyed the experience. I get that the story is quite convoluted in terms of mystery, with very little in the way of actual answers, but this worked for me. I like a good mystery. I didn’t need to be completely in the know immediately—I’m happy to wait for book 2 (or even book 3) for full comprehension. I also didn’t need a substantial romance to keep me engaged. Yes, Leo and Alasdair have a very heated and engaging “relationship” but I certainly wasn’t feeling any big warm and fuzzy feels during this read, but there was a shit-ton of attraction and UST though, which suited me just fine (for now).

For me, there is something so effortless in the way Frank writes. Somehow, with very little in the way of copious detail, she’s able to transport me into whatever time-period or place she’s created. I don’t even have to think about it, I’m just there. The world-building is fantastic and original, and the characters are engaging in both their perfections and imperfections. I liked Leo as a character, but I loved how dangerous and unforgiving Alasdair was. Some of his actions in this story were downright brutal, yet I still found myself rooting for him as a character and I loved that.

Ultimately, I enjoyed myself and will definitely continue with this series when the time comes.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only Ella Frank could have me so immersed in a genre I wouldn't usually go for, that while on vacation I made my husband sit in the hotel room for hours while I finished reading her book!!

Vampires. Forbidden. Overwhelming animalistic desire!
The fixation and fascination they had for each other was overwhelmingly erotic.

There was something in the air.
I could feel it.
I wanted to touch it.
I wanted to be bitten!!!

"An arrogant as fuck smile stretched across Alasdair's lips, and he went from sexy to downright fucking dangerous in seconds."

Such a different world. Very different from what I'm used to reading.
I love M/M. I love Ella's erotic/sensual writing.
So add to that mystery and intrigue and I was hooked! I couldn't put it down!!!
I want more!!
I need more!!



*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

Read more at Judy's Confessions

[Elle aka Leftie aka Shoebelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

For someone who doesn't typically read PNR, I quite enjoyed this one. For a sometimes m/m reader, it was hot enough, I suppose. On one hand, there were elements that could've pushed my limits but I felt I was spared details. On the other, I actually wished there were more:p, go figure. Nonetheless, it's all good.

Since it's the beginning of a series, it's obviously not done yet. It ends on a bit of a cliffie, not so bad that you say to yourself, "Wut???". More like, "Hmmm...". Also, bec this is just the beginning, there are unanswered questions as the world-building just started.

While I haven't read a lot of Anne Rice, her books were the first to come to mind when I was reading this with all that master/slave talk and it did have vampires. And just add some Greek mythology to it.

Alasdair and Leo have a very interesting dynamics. I'm quite reeled in to see how that dynamics will grow in time. Alasdair has all the marks of an alpha H. And Leo has the right temperament to complement him. I'm curious to see how everything will play out with the rest of the series.

[Susan]

DNF at 30%

The things I learned from this book.

- I really really hate vampires. They’re

I hate their arrogance and their mindset that humans are nothing more than insects to feed from and then kill. Yeah sorry, I do not find this sexy at all.

- I don’t think it’s hot that Leo (who has been kidnapped and held prisoner) has to watch Alasdair and another vampire have sex with each other. Aren’t Alasdair and Leo supposed to fall in love? I get that Leo thinks it’s hot, but I don’t.


That’s as far as I got before I almost threw my Kobo out the window.


Not the book for me. I don’t care that vampires are not humans and are supposed to act this way. I still want to at least like my MC. Mind games are not my thing.

[Jennifer☠Pher☠]

Got to 31% - Chapter 10. I don't like it. I don't know what is going on. I don't get it and I don't even want what I should want because it makes no sense. What a fucking let down, I was super excited for this.

[Tais · Rating 2 out of 5]

Если бы автор заранее предупреждала читателей о жанре и содержании этой книги, претензий с моей стороны было бы гораздо меньше. Вместо этого, аннотация намеренно вводит в заблуждение, создавая впечатление привычной романтической эротики на двоих и ничем не намекая на тройнички, пытки, отсутствие, собственно, этой самой романтики и прочие радости.

Поначалу все кажется заманчивым. Вампиры (и, о чудо, не-пушистики), укусы, эротизм, роковое влечение. Чего еще желать? Греческие боги? Ну ладно, как скажете. Я даже по поводу "dark’а" не возражаю, если его вкусно и к месту подать. Все-таки речь о кровососущих.

Однако все свелось к затянутой, совершенно неэмоциональной и неромантичной m/m/m-эротике странного вида с темноватым оттенком, непривлекательными героями и клифхэнгером до кучи.

Ни один из персонажей не вызывает не то что симпатии, даже банального сочувствия. А вот неприязнь - да. Скажете, плохие мальчики соблазнительны? Здесь они просто садисты или убийцы, только еще озабоченные.
А что касается человека, так он, на мой взгляд, вышел совершенно никаким. Всю книгу его, как мешок картошки, таскают туда-сюда, каждые пять минут угрожая вполне реальной смертью, а у него на все один ответ - эрекция. Собственно, это единственная его характеристика, которую я могу выделить.

Хотя Лео сложно винить. Большинство персонажей этой книги или пребывают в состоянии перманентного сексуального возбуждения, или участвуют в каких-то действиях эротического характера, которые, однако, редко доходят до логического завершения.
Полноценного же секса между главными героями не случается почти до самого "финала" (если так можно назвать оборванную на середине сцену безо всяких ответов) из-за постоянных прерываний и беспричинных откладываний. (Зачем это было нужно автору для меня так и осталось загадкой, т.к. никакой космической катастрофы, как я сначала подозревала, к самому акту не привязано). Да и с укусами вышла незадача.
Зато уйма внимания уделена эротическим сценам Vasilios/Alasdair, Vasilios/Alasdair/Leo или Alasdair еще с кем-то во флэшбеках. Какая уж тут особая связь между главными героями? Тем более, если их всех тянет и к тому, и к этому. И где тут, простите, любовь?