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Manipulation

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Théoden: There is cause for celebration for many reasons. Dante, my young wolf, has lost some of his bite. My sons take their place as official Generals of the city. I appoint my new Lords into their positions and my rules for both will be revealed. On top of that, I get to spend some more quality time with my son, Dante, before the sun rises. It's great to be me.

Noel: Training with Marco has been hard as hell. I'm actually looking forward to taking a break, even if it means going to the arena for vampire festivities. Théoden has given us the night off after the celebration. I wonder what trouble I could get into?

Deacon: Having claimed my mate, Elijah, I can feel my power increase. I was going to have to let the other Alphas know that I am now elevated and I will have my mate by my side when I do so. I want them to see him with their own eyes. If I’m lucky, it will have the desired effect on Josef, and he’ll make all the moves I need him to.

Warning: This serial contains strong adult content not meant for sensitive eyes. The novelettes in this serial will be filled with dark, twisted, raunchy and steamy scenes between powerful, sexy men that will either offend you or get ya revved up. This series will not be pulling any punches, and it won’t apologize for hurting your feelings, either. You’ll find no fluff and ruffles here. The vampires are not misunderstood, hopeless romantics looking for love. The werewolves are not cute and cuddly and the dragons aren’t the ones from your childhood. This is NOT a romance. There are approximately 26600 words in this novelette.

75 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 8, 2015

17 people are currently reading
130 people want to read

About the author

Nicholas Bella

94 books1,079 followers
About The Maniac Who Wrote These Books

I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
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Find Your Next Obsession from my literary offerings on my website.

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5 stars
204 (55%)
4 stars
106 (29%)
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46 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
5 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2015
I have always wanted to write a review about this series. But I never did have the courage to find the right words to define what the entire series meant for me. But before I start, I want to explain that this is just my personal 2 cents here, so if you don't agree, please be nice (or at least civilized). So here goes nothing.

Hmm. The way I would describe how Mr. Bella's write his books is "Pure Satisfaction". His books are certainly not your bread and butter erotica. Sure the stories are sexy and gritty. But I always feel that his story is so satisfying that it actually sates your soul, or at least that secret inner gritty, dark and naughty part of your soul (or perhaps its just only me).

What I find this series so attractive is the fact that Mr. Bella is not afraid to pen his creative (albeit naughty) ideas and show it to the world. He dares to explore and thrive in the sensuality of gay sex, domination and love. You could actually sometimes get that vibe, that feeling of how sensuous each of his character can get in sex. You weren't JUST reading about how slutty and sex deprived the characters could get (I am talking about you Ryan). But I feel that you are reading about the enjoyment and sensuality of sex and love between man in its 'purest' form.

It is understandable that some people might find his writing off-putting, considering it doesn't exactly portray proper ideologies of D/s relationships of the current/modern times, safe sex isn't practiced too. It is also understandable that this story might be too gritty and dark, or perhaps the series contains too much sex. But personally (and I cannot stop emphasizing that this is purely just my personal opinion), I feel all of the issues is okay in the context of his stories, I mean hey, its fantasy fiction right? So be warned, this series might not be everyone.

There for, I heed the adventurous readers who are brave enough to explore to give this series a try. If you want to sate that little gritty and dark side of your soul. This series is worth the investment.
Profile Image for Elsbeth.
1,303 reviews40 followers
September 3, 2015

I liked this one very much. I even liked Marco at times!!! Im sure Marco has this soft spot for our Noel.

“You bit off my fucking nipple!” he growled at me. “I thought you liked it rough,” I retorted.

“I do, that move was underhanded and brilliant. I told you to figure it out and you did, by any means necessary .

That is how you need to fight. Vampires don’t play by any rules except the rules of survival. Eye gouge, dismemberment, weapons… it’s all fair game.


I'm loving Noel more and more!! Great to see, he has totally embraced his future as a vampire and is getting more confidence every day!!

Théoden is such a SOB but I love his attitude and his protective feelings for his family (sons and grandsons).

“Excellent.”


The variety in characters is awesome. Bruce and his son Ryan are some dirty mofo's

With Dante and Elijah submitted finally with their masters, this is going to be interesting!!

But where are the dragons????
Profile Image for AGandyGirl.
773 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2020
4.5%

Loved this one just as much the second time. Only hate that Ashton is not staying around...he would have been a damn nice addition to the family. 

***

Wow.  Ok...a lot is going on here. And the submission of these characters is pretty damn hot. I am not going to lie.  Phew.  But the highlight for me as this series progresses is Noel.  His acceptance and journey into this life is pretty fucking awesome to watch take place.  Not to mention how he is being perceived by Theoden, how he is becoming more assertive and more forward with his brothers...it just an amazing transformation.


One scene stands out that likely no one will truly understand unless you have read this but this exchange between Noel and Theoden is priceless.  The comical aspect of this just shows how much has changed between them.  Too bad we did not get this scene later in the book. *pouts*  (Yeah I was going to spoiler this quote but it won't work.  Oh well...read on.)


Sitting there, side by side, I couldn’t help but wish I was sandwiched between them with their cocks inside of me.

Both of them turned in my direction and I knew then that they’d heard my thoughts. Holy shit, was I broadcasting that loud?! I was so fucking embarrassed, I quickly turned away. I could hear them chuckling, but at least they didn’t embarrass me further. 

If all goes well before the king leaves, you may get your wish, pet. Théoden’s voice penetrated my mind. 

I can’t believe you caught that. I really didn’t mean for that thought to get out. I said telepathically. 

I know, but I loved that it did. I’m sure my Father would be more than happy to join me and skewer you on our dicks, Théoden flirted.




Gawd...the dirtiness.  



One more and then the wait begins for Season 4. *pouts more*



Reading Updates:

8%

The courier dropped off my package earlier this evening with all of the essentials for Dante’s training. I was going through the box now, looking at all of the wonderful toys we’ll be playing with. I lined them up on the table in the den. A strap-on butt plug; nice, long, and thick. A ball gag, one personalized dog collar with the name “boycunt” on it, and a sexy leather harness with spikes. This will be his outfit until I decide he’s earned the right to wear clothes.
And so this begins. *chuckles*

33%



35%

If all goes well before the king leaves, you may get your wish, pet.

Just the mention of this...*fans self*

40%

“Don’t look away, Noel!” Ryu said sharply, and I turned back to the tortured victim. “Don’t ever look away, it shows weakness. You are a son of Théoden, his General. You may have to mete out justice in this fashion. Turning away shows your disapproval and defiance of our Father. Never do that again.”

87%

“You said everyone has a weakness, a breaking point. You have mine.”

Re-read: 2015, December 21th

1%

I was going through the box now, looking at all of the wonderful toys we’ll be playing with. I lined them up on the table in the den. A strap-on butt plug; nice, long, and thick. A ball gag, one personalized dog collar with the name “boycunt” on it, and a sexy leather harness with spikes. This will be his outfit until I decide he’s earned the right to wear clothes.
Let the fun begin!

38%

From gagging to swooning...oh the emotions. Love this series. <3

46%

The two guards continued to slice him in two until his body was completely divided and his insides covered the ground in a bloody mess. Many members of the crowd were on their feet, cheering as if their home team just made the winning shot. Marco gave the performance a standing ovation and it reminded me of how vicious he could be. I’d been getting flippant with him lately and he was allowing it because he was accepting me as his brother. But seeing him now, loving the violence of that death, I was reminded of who he really was. Théoden’s second in command and just as dangerous and cruel.
WOW.
Profile Image for Cadiva.
3,999 reviews438 followers
October 9, 2017
For dark, disturbing, eroticism with a driving narrative that leaves you hanging on the edge of your seat panting for more there is no-one quite like Nicholas Bella.

Theoden and his sons are pure sex, vampires drive by lustful emotions but also powerful connections to family and a sense of pride and ownership in being the best.
Profile Image for xxkitsunexx.
61 reviews9 followers
April 22, 2018
I can honestly say i am glad i kept read this series i have devoured one after another and maybe i should have taken a break in between but i can honestly say i never thought that i would get sick of a sex scene in a book.
but because it is on every page but with no feelings or lack of emotions to go with them i am not sure if that's the reason i felt this way in this book .
let's face it you have read the books you know it's all about the need for sex is a must to survive in this world.
But i started to get board with them and it takes so much away from any progress of the story line but on the other hand what little bit of the story line that was there did keep me interested to keep me reading the next book which is the last last book :-)
Profile Image for Dan.
3,632 reviews625 followers
April 6, 2023
“If I sense any treachery from you or your flock, I will slaughter every child you’ve ever sired that remains in New Haven. I will send you their shriveled heads as a reminder of how I repay those who piss me off. Are we clear?”


Theoden is solidifying his alliances and his selection of the new Lords before the evening’s ceremony.

He also wants to break Dante. Fast. Faster even than he broke Noel.

Noel continues to impress. He’s flourishing under Marco’s tutelage. The combat scenes are super cool.

Hot times with Marco. It’s great to see him and Noel getting along better and not having Marco be a complete asshat the entire time.

One of the strengths in this series has been seeing Noel reconcile what he was with what he’s become. It’s on full display during the executions on stage. The violence is barbaric.

Noel is enjoying just how much the tables have turned. Everything has changed since that first night in the arena. Noel’s candid thoughts remain compelling. He’s looking forward to the promotion, and he’s a bit shocked that as a General, he will outrank the Lords and Ladies—even Theoden’s own siblings.

Theoden’s powers of fire shock and awe the spectators.

Dante caves.

Deacon and Elijah consummate their union. And Deacon has some major plans.


“So decide now if you want to live and if you’re ready to fight for what is ours.”
Profile Image for Michele Evans.
1,213 reviews8 followers
November 6, 2018
Can’t stop reading !!

This series has vampires, werewolves, dragons, and a lot of M/M relationships. The vampire prince, Theoden is going to be taking over the kingdom while King Ara seeks to conquer Queen Amara’s territory. He has his sons as his powerful defenders of the city and continues to grow his family. We got to read of the werewolf alpha Deacon and his mate’s mating ritual ceremony and we got to read more about the hybrid wold turned vampire, Theoden’s newest family member, as well as Noel and how he is adjusting to his new role as an enforcer.
Profile Image for Teresa.
97 reviews
September 22, 2019
So addicted

I can not stop reading. I love this series. The men are just so hot. I cant get enough. Nicholas Bella has a way with words and is a great story teller.
Profile Image for Simply Just Jen.
203 reviews11 followers
May 2, 2016
OMMMGGGG!!!!! Nicholas Bella has spun a tight web into my heart and become one of my favorite Authors this year. I am so lucky to have found his work and blessed to have him as a friend. I am like a kid at a candy store every time Mr. Bella releases an installment in this series!!!! I am already so sad that this one is out and I've finished it because now I know I have to wait for the next one.... :( :( !! Most everyone knows that I honestly have never been a paranormal genre fan but this series has me hooked!! I know right, ME...Paranormal??? ....surprising for sure. This series is very dark and may not be for the faint of heart but I promise you all it is so worth the time and read!! Manipulation picks up right where Claimed ended.

Théoden is proving that he is the right choice for Prince of the city. He is no push over for sure. He is announcing all his plans at a huge celebration for the city. He is still all Alpha and even quite scary at times. He gives me chills a lot...LOL!! Oh and if you were even thinking Théoden wasn't as sexy then let me tell you that's a huge NEGATIVE!! He is probably more sexy in this one if you love the dominant type. Totally, makes me drool for sure. Théoden, is still having a bit of a rough time with the new son, Dante but watching him break him is so wickedly fun. LOL!!

Noel is still training with the eldest son, Marco and for now he is gaining a little respect from the tough guy. Noel is so great, I love that he is adjusting to his new life and yet still struggles somewhat. I love that he wants to be ferocious and make Théoden proud but still is dealing with his own conscience. I am so looking forward to seeing what will happen when Noel and Dante get out on their own together in Théoden's district as Generals.

Deacon has just claimed his mate Elijah. Seeing the budding jealousy that Elijah is now experiencing after the mating is awesome. I will admit...right now I am such a Deacon fan but I am so nervous of where his story is heading cause I don't want to not like him anymore...LOL!! Nicholas just give a me clue...PRETTY PLEASE!!!

This series will have you on the edge of your seat. I promise you, you will become an addict and be begging Mr. Bella for more all the time! Like me just ask him how much I say I can't wait when he posts teasers!! LOL :)!!! Manipulation is another fantastic installment in a very magnificent, wickedly creative, edge of your seat epic tale. If you like the dark side and are looking for a great wild ride then I can't recommend this series enough. So go grab it, you won't be disappointed at all.
Profile Image for Kathy Morris.
76 reviews8 followers
July 12, 2015
Awesome book

Nicholas Bella just keeps us in awe. His books just keep getting better and better if that is even possible. This book is awesome and amazing.
This book is part of an ongoing series. These books are not stand alone and must be read in order to get the full effect of these books. This series is highly erotic, dark, and twisted. If you're interested than you'll love the New Haven Series

Theoden received a box that was essential for Dante's training. I don't think he can wait to use his new toys.
Bruce and Ryan is at it again. I just love the way Ryan talks to his Daddy.
Theoden is impressed with Noel and Marco as Noel's training is going well. Marco and Noel are getting along a lot better.
All gathered for the Ceremony. At the ceremony Theoden's sons are presented as his Generals. King Ara is proud of his son Theoden for how he handles himself. Theoden proves he is the Prince of the City.
Dante has to sire a child. It will be Ashton the Annihilator who won the tournament. Dante isn't happy but he doesn't really have a choice. After Ashton has been embraced he is sent to King Ara. They'll be leaving in the morning. Dante has earned his freedom from his cage. Theoden bonds with Dante. After some hot sex, Theoden and Dante go to bed together.
Elijah is still dragging his feet but Deacon will put him in his place. Elijah was not feeling well after the transformation. Deacon reassured Elijah that was normal for the first time. Elijah wasn't happy knowing he had to be presented to the rest of the Alphas. Deacon explained the meaning of doing this. Deacon was getting things ready for a war for territory that he was instigating.
Can't wait to see what's going to happen between Theoden and Deacon.
Next book is Disciplined.
This book is a must read. Again Nicholas has given us suspense, originality and his wonderful imagination which just keeps getting better with each book. As usual Nicholas drags you in and holds on to you. He leaves you wanting for more and he always delivers.
Magnificent job Nicholas Bella. I give this book 5 stars.
Profile Image for Daria.
1,997 reviews42 followers
July 11, 2015
Oh yeah Nicholas has far become one of my favorite writers. I just love his style and his ability to write what he wants. I can only assume how tough it is to launch the type of genre he as and do so good in it. Many pats on the back Nicholas I think you’ve done very well.

Mr. Bella’s books are intriguing in their raw darkness, no pat on the ass and a maybe. But more of a snatch grab and bend you over the closest piece of furniture. With each book I’ve looked forward to the next. These are not stand alones by any means you will need to start off with book one of the first season.

Manipulation -  the action of manipulating someone in a clever or unscrupulous way. I think that fits Theoden to a absolute T. But he does it with style, class and power. The end game make people fear you, you will rise strong and be able to keep whats yours. Dante has a long road to walk, I see a lot of Noel in him. Dante hasn’t learned where the true power is. He should remember the old saying don’t bite the hand that feeds you. For Theoden it was about gaining a powerful son with unique abilities that could pass it on through his sire-ship. And everyone has a breaking point.

Deacon not my fav but close, just love his style also. Not quiet as harsh as Theoden, maybe because its his mate he is dealing with. Still Elijah puts a whole new level of stubbornness to the test. If Deacon thought he’d have a mallable little pup in his mate he will see he will have a hard time helping his mate “adjust”.

Marco and Noel seems to be on a marked improvement with each other, Noel himself was just wow, you go boy. Smiles. I missed not seeing my dragon, spanks Nicholas for that. (ha ha)

All around each page the intensity, the dark and dirty the only way Nicholas brings the boys to you. Its a game of power, a show of strength and yes passion and hot sex. Love the detail, the continued storyline as well as the characters.
Awesome Nicholas and Thank you for the gift of the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Anne.
735 reviews
July 15, 2015
Wow....just wow. With every installment this series gets more and more intriguing, awesome, darker and sexier as ever!!
Dante finally obeying and finding his place to submit to his Sire and Maker, Theoden, is fascinating and amazing to see. Fighting against his new life and the way Theoden wants his new fate to be, Dante, in the end, understands there is no choice if he wants to find his peace within his new place of his at Theodens side. And them bonding some more is very hot! Just imagining the planned outfit Theoden has chosen for him....dayumm....
What impressed me the most was Noel. Still struggling once in a while with his human side and those little remains of fight against the supes and the urge of his rebel heart, he sees more and more clearly that it's useless to fight. The ceremony in the arena has brought him to another border of himself but he mastered this test rather bravely. He is proud to be one of Theodens sons and the responsibilities he has to take as one of his Generals. Even this little glitch of sending his latest fantasies of being together with Theoden and Ara straight to them couldn't blame him!
And Deacon and his sexy mate Elijah. Like in every installment I Long to read about them. Elijah learns a new lesson and even tries to open up a little bit to his Alpha and mate. Their bonding is strong and they really can't resist it. I am really curious what else they will have to struggle with, though Deacon isn't that up to reveal his plans....
All in all, Manipulation is an excellent continuation in this amazing series!! The ceremony was, well, very dark and lightly shocking, but awesome. Call me blood thirsty but that's the way this series works and I love it!! Can't wait to get my grabby hands on the next book in this series!!
Profile Image for Heidi Ryan.
309 reviews12 followers
July 13, 2015
This world of vampires, werewolves, and dragons is by far the darkest, sexiest world imaginable. Nicholas Bella smacks the sparkles off the vampires and shows you what kind of predator they can be. Survival of the fittest has never been more true than in this world where the three groups fight and quarrel for supremacy. Never has there been a more raw look at the supernatural world than between the pages of these books. I love the dark journey you are taken on as Theoden molds his new responsibilities and his training of his new sons together to rule over New Haven. And throw in Deacon, the alpha of the werewolves, as he brings in to the fold his new mate, Elijah. Deacon is a tricky one, using his mate to start a war while trying to find a way to exploit his connection to the vampires. As Theoden presents his sons as the new Generals of New Haven, he is also training Dante, the first wolf/dragon/vampire hybrid. Dante is slowly coming around now that Theoden knows his weakness. There is so much further he needs to go to be one of the brothers, but he is getting there. Noel is becoming more and more comfortable as a vampire. His training with Marco is helping. In this installment, we don't see the dragons, but they can't be far. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. I must feed my addiction. This is a dark, twisted look at the paranormal world, but it is so much fun.
Profile Image for Marinda.
379 reviews7 followers
July 13, 2015
Dante seems to finally be giving in to Theoden. The Oden is presenting his "sons"as his generals. Ara is ready to leave the city and hand the Reins over to Theoden, the new king. Noel has "embraced" his new life fully.Deacon, who I still don't trust one bit, is finally mated to Elijah and ready to present him to the other packs. I must say I love a good M/M paranormal story and this has it all, it's dark, gritty, nasty and sex filled. I love that the vampires, dragons, and we're aren't glittery, loving and cuddly. They're all harsh, demanding, self absorbed and lord over the humans with a cruel iron fist. Mr Bella has continued to grab and keep my attention with this amazing series and I impatiently await each installment. I can't stop reading and these are the perfect length for a lunch break or a hot soak. Even though there short there's so much packed into each one and they keep getting better. Independent reviewer for Paranormal Romance & Authors That Rock.
224 reviews3 followers
July 11, 2015
Gear up for a wild ride!

This is episode three of season three and it just keeps getting better! Read the warning in the description of this book, seriously, it may not be for you. But if you love this type of story, then I promise, Nicholas Bella will push every single one of your happy buttons! I love the control these men have over their 'children', and that they aren't afraid to use it. The story is getting seriously intriguing, all that BDSM and a new royal court, an impending war, oh yeah, don't forget about the werewolves and plotting going on over there too!!! *sighs happily* Can't wait to see what's next!
1 review1 follower
July 29, 2015
The pictures created by the author of humans slaughtered in gruesome ways are still haunting me. I can´t understand readers who slobber over such cruelty.
I`m quite fond of dark stories from authors as e.g. Kol Anderson, Lisa Henry or Jack L. Pyke which however always involve a bit of humanity and hope and don´t. By reading this series I was reminded of the darkest eras in human history and especially of a movie about Caligula I watched many years ago...
Profile Image for SUNNY.
74 reviews
April 26, 2016
Bloody

I'm curious to know more about Deacon and Josef. Will Theo help Deacon. I love Elijah and happy he is accepting Deacon. I can't wait to see more of Dante, and what will happen in the next book. But I could do without the bloodshed in the arena.
Profile Image for Debby.
1,024 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2016
Pretty gory but fun read

This book was all about the ceremony of Theoden to be the official Prime of New Haven and the presentation of his generals. This book is a little more gory than previous books, but you see more into the world of vampires.
Profile Image for Denise White.
2,030 reviews
August 22, 2015
Still flowing

This is getting better and better...now that Dante is seeing the light as well as Elijah things are about to go down...off to the finale
Profile Image for Leah.
Author 60 books62 followers
April 22, 2016
Can't get enough!

This is a truly addictive series! Once you
start you will be reading each book as fast
as possible! With a few cold showers thrown
in between!
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