Cazadora

by Julia DeBarrioz

Bounty hunter Dakota del Toro always gets her werewolf. When she’s almost fired from the Preternatural Control Team for bringing in a mark who tests to be human she knows something is rotten in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her 1965 Beetle is stolen, and a werewolf ransacks her house looking for drugs she doesn’t have. Determined to get to the bottom of it, Dakota enlists the help of Diego de Gama, all-too-handsome gallery owner and vampire revolutionary—who may or may not have designs on her immortal soul.

Somehow, the disappearance of a teenage narco princess seems to tie in to it all. Hot on the trail, Dakota is led into the mysterious world of Changelings, a counterculture who likes to pretend they are were-creatures. It’s all fun and games until someone loses their heart—pulled still beating from their chest. The heat turns up at a Halloween masquerade at Kama Luna, a nightclub for the things that go bump in the night. Ready to face a wicked witch of the Amazon and her whip-wielding consort, Dakota ties on her mask and straps on her guns. She’ll show these beasties how she earned the name la Cazadora, or die trying.

Genres: Science Fiction Fantasy, Fantasy

ebook

First published October 20, 2013

About the author

Long ago, a fortune teller read Julia's palm and told her, “You’d better write this all down.” Julia has been writing, writing, writing, ever since. Somewhere along the line she earned a degree in fine art and traveled the world. Now she lives on a farm in Missouri with her darling husband, two criminal conures, one stubborn bulldog, one bad bunny, and possibly too many chickens.

But really, is there such a thing as too many chickens?

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm absolutely loving this series so much. I love the world the author has created within a modern setting to encompass not only all of these supernatural beings but so much South/Central American culture. I love the slow-burn romance. It complimented the story. And I absolutely love how strong and independent the main character is written. Dakota del Toro is an agent specifically trained to hunt and bring to justice supernatural beings who break the law. There's a difference between her and her colleagues in that she's pro-life and doesn't subscribe to the shoot-to-kill tactic her department recommends. Her work is dangerous and intriguing and she manages to investigate without bias or fear colouring her judgment, despite the amount of hate she gets from both her colleagues and the criminal gangs she infiltrates. It makes for an interesting dynamic, an action packed story, and some brilliant world building to escape into.

This series would appeal to readers who are fans of urban fantasy, supernatural, or paranormal stories. Also perfect if you're an art, poetry, or romance lover too.

[Tracy O’Sing · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will just start with READ IT....

I love a good vampire story and I will say Ms DeBarrioz has given me a book that will be added to my favourites list and one that will be re-reading...

Cazadora a wonderfully written detailed complex and intriguing read, filled with many great elements that make for a great paranormal/fantasy read. Not just your average vampire story.

Dakota a feisty hunter working with PCT an organisation that hunts Werewolves and studies them in hopes to find a cure for the Lycanthrope disease. Dakota seems to be a magnet for the paranormal, getting in the middle of the age old battle of Vampire verses Werewolf.. Vampire verses Vampire..
Dakota agrees to help Diego, a 400 year old Vampire restore a semblance of peace in their world. Diego quietly building an Army to aid in his revolution, wanting to oust the current Don and reclaim the territory in hopes of a new kind of regime. Working together they not only battle the Werewolves they also must contend with witches, demons, magic as well as their own attraction to each other...There is something between them, though unsure as to what or how but they have this powerful connection.

Now I'm not one to give details and spoilers so I will finish off by saying the ending is not a cliff hanger but it definitely leaves you wanting more... looking forward to reading more Dakota del Toro adventures...

*I received this book in exchange for an Honest review*

[Energy Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a supernatural bounty hunter for the PCT, Dakota takes down werewolves, though more often than not, she has tranquilizer darts in her gun so she can bring them in alive. But the latest weres aren't testing for the lycanthrope gene, so how exactly are they changing, especially during the day?

Meanwhile, the head of a narco family wants Dakota to find his missing daughter Inez. She's not sure why she agreed to look, as it could get her into a lot of trouble. But Dakota is known for finding herself in the middle of trouble, so this is right up her alley.

There's still a heavy romantic undercurrent swirling between her and the vampire Diego, but Dakota has high walls, and she just can't seem to let him in. Even though he has proved himself trustworthy and adoring, she's just not ready. But she can definitely use his help as things get heated between the Were situation and finding Inez.

The Huntress, la Cazadora, as she is known, is indeed widely known, amongst the weres, shifters, and witches. Her name is spoken in fear and admiration. She's good at what she does, even if she doesn't always have the most conventional means at getting things done.

This is a continuation of Compañera but I don't feel like you had to have read it to follow the storyline, but it definitely adds to it. When I had read Compañera, I was immediately impressed with Dakota, and even more so in Cazadora. She's a strong main character, she's smart, assertive, and resilient. She guards her heart carefully, but I imagine when she is ready to let down her walls, she will love as deeply as she lives. Cazadora has so many elements that mesh well together, suspense, a bit of romance and fantasy. DeBarrioz has included art and lore to create fantastic characters and creatures. A wonderful read.

[V. Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

That cover alone is five stars! I know, I'm shallow ;) Don't judge a book by its cover....
BUT this book is definitely more than the cover. Dakota deserves to be front and centre. Julia breathes precious life into Dakota del Toro while weaving a fun tale of weres, vamps and witches. She does a great job at winding the romantic tension so tight you can feel the frustration in the character's bodies. Yet, the action is just as well written and thought out.
Dakota is also more than just a badass fighter, she has all the vulnerability of someone trying to figure herself out.
Finally, this story is diverse!! Yes! We need more books to reflect the greater world out there because the world is a big place. Colour is a good thing.
I recommend this book if you like speculative fiction, paranormal romance, dark fantasy, urban fantasy.... Just read it ;)

[Kirsty Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride! Wonderful atmospheric writing made me feel like I was in New Mexico and the world building is top notch as you're slowly introduced the different supernatural races and how things work in this universe.

These things are brought together by Dakota del Toro whose connection to the supernatural is both professional - she's the only supernatural bounty hunter who wants to bring in the bounty alive and personal as she resists the lure of a relationship with the local vampire rebellion leader. On top of this, she's taken a side job tracking down a lost mob daughter and dealing with a personal vendetta from a werewolf! No wonder she doesn't have time for romance.

But these plot threads are wonderfully woven together in a story that keeps you guessing and wanting more. Looking forward to reading more in this universe.

[Linette Kasper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic, Mystery, and Masquerade

I was excited to read the next installment of Dakota del Toro's adventures and was not disappointed. The story kept me on the edge of my seat, in more ways than one. The action was riveting and the growing romance between Diego and Dakota has me yearning for more. I can't wait to dive in again. I already have the next two books waiting in my queue!

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Raucous Ride Through The New Mexico Desert

Are you a hunter for a book? Cazadora, the huntress has one. Don’t let the werewolves and vampires throw you, she ain’t no Buffy — if you never thought about a book like this before. She and her prey fit right into this other New Mexico. Connected to Old Spain you know. All complicated when she falls for an elegant Spanish gentleman with fangs.

Dakota del Toro might very well be the missing half-sister of Clive Cussler’s heroic Dirk Pitt. Cazadora gallops along with action, intrigue, and history much like Cussler’s. I wonder if the author made a guest appearance in Cazadora and I missed it? Men who like action and women who like female protagonists will both enjoy this book.

I must admit, my favorite character was the East Indian Daemon with the dance hall. He was delightful; I would love to meet him — maybe next Halloween when he has his next gala. You’ll have to read the book to find out more, and a schedule for you to attend too. All the other characters are, well, characters, each in their own way. You’ll like ‘em.

I give the book 4-5 stars for the story and 5 for the characters. The writing in the first part of the book was less than 4-stars though. No worries, you won’t notice because you’ll want to keep seeing what comes next. Now just where is that dance hall anyway?

[Cassondra Windwalker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance is my greatest indulgence, and of late I've veered away from the paranormal genre as so many authors seem to be churning out tired, trite, and poorly developed formulas in place of story. Julia de Barrioz, however, completely entranced me with this darkly humorous and delightfully contemporary take on the world of shifters and vampires. La Cazadora barely scratches the surface of what is clearly a thoroughly explored magical world of both modern and ancient cultures, set in the enchanting backdrop of Santa Fe and the New Mexico mountains and deserts. I felt as if I were there again, and as if all the stories were true. Dakota del Toro is a heroine not soon forgotten, whose voice resonates in the ear like an old friend, long-lost. If you're one of those who despise romances, this book will change your mind. And if you're a fan of the genre, this author is one you do not want to miss.

[Alison Chewning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked reading Cazadora by Julia DeBarrioz. It was a totally different book than what I am used to but I was hooked on the first page. The author did a good job on writing the story it kept me glued to the pages. It was filled with romance, action and a great twist in the paranormal world. Dakota is a bounty hunter with the PCT team and is on a hunt for a werewolf. Diego is a vampire who is 400 years old and helps Dakota with her hunt for a werewolf to cure the disease for werewolves. Great book to read and enjoy looking forward to more of these books by this author.

[melanie evermore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!!

I should not have been surprised at how much I loved this book after reading the first Dakota del Toro book, but I was, because I loved this one even more. Bounty hunter, Dakota is a fantastic character, strong and smart, yet still vulnerable to the allure of the enigmatic vampire, Diego. Well-written and captivating. Looking forward to more in the series!

[Alex Wilde · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book, not a dull moment in it! From the front to the back cover, it was captivating! Dakota is my kind of girl, a heroine I would like to meet in real life too! I can't wait for another book from Julia DeBarrioz!

[D.F. Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Supernatural Blast

I had so much fun reading this story! An intriguing plot, twists, and a prominent voice will keep you turning the pad until you're left yearning for more.

[Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great chunky read which took longer to get through than the others, but that was okay. The author’s writing is superb as she invokes the New Mexico landscape and fills it with the dens of vampires and werewolves, adobe villas and harsh deserts.

There’s a lot going on in this book, and at times it felt a little confusing. I didn’t think it flowed quite as well as the others, and I had to concentrate to keep up. Basically, a rich mob boss’s teen daughter goes missing, and Dakota has no choice but to hunt for her. As she delves deeper, she enters the shadowy world of werewolf wannabes who use bands made of actual animals to turn themselves into temporary were’s. Diego, her would-be lover, is on hand to help her if things get sticky, although she is quite capable of looking after herself, thank you very much.

Poor Diego. I’d be surprised if he hasn’t got blue balls by now. He spends the book trying to seduce Dakota without success, and when the prime opportunity comes, he is the perfect gentlemen and doesn’t take advantage (yay!) This is a novel where the women are kick-ass, the men are respectful (unless they are the bad guys, in which case they are not) and where the underground worlds of witchcraft and werewolf magic are sinister and not for the faint-hearted. And overshadowing everything is the spectre of Juan the Ripper, who made an appearance in Compañera, a truly repellent character who seems to be at the heart of all the disappearances in New Mexico and beyond.

Although the story could have been tighter in places, I loved the world-building and the romance between Diego and Dakota. There were some truly beautiful passages and a looming sense of menace between them. I love this series so far and yes, I do have the next book!

[Emé Savage · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5!

Del Torro is a bounty hunter that hunts werewolves. This time she is hired by a notorious crime boss to find his missing daughter, Inez. As the mystery deepens, Del Toro finds herself fighting some new enemies along with ones that she thought were long dead. With the help of a group of vampires, including a delectable Diego, she seeks to bring down this unusual werewolf pack. But things are not always what they seem, including Del Toro herself.

What I loved:
Everything! It has action, romance, supernatural, and mystery. It's impeccably written. The cover is to die for. The characters are so well-written. The story is complex and elegant at the same time. There are layers upon layers with threads connecting to places that I hope are revealed in subsequent volumes. I read Companera, but Cazadora is even better. The worldbuilding is unique giving a fresh take on a familiar genre.

What I didn't like:
I can't think of anything. This was very well done. They should make this into a TV series or movie already.

Overall:
You need to get this book right now! Put it on your TBR. Add it to your Kindle. Although, I do recommend the paperback because that cover is gorgeous! This is the second book I've read by this author and you better believe, I have a third one on my list. Well done!

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

The continuation of Dakota del Toro's adventures as a bounty hunter for the supernatural creatures that plague her city. 𝘊𝘢𝘻𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘢 the huntress is the perfect and infamous nick name given to Dakota by all the evil creatures that try to hide.  
 
This was another suspense-filled story, that kept you guessing. More creatures come out of the wood works, witches, humans wanting to be werewolves, and of course the werewolves themselves- all fighting for power of the city. But that is not something that Dakota will let happen. She will stop it or die trying. I enjoyed the world building, descriptions of new creatures and the parties Dakota infiltrates.  
 
The supernatural world is so well intertwined with the consuming, but denied, love between Dakota and Diego. Dakota can't fall for a vampire, at least that is what she tells herself because she's already fallen. Julia does a wonderful job of balancing the story with their growing relationship. The balancing of Dakota's independence with Diego's protectiveness. The emotions of falling in love, but denying it. It was a wonderful balance of all the things!  
 
If you are a fan of paranormal, you need to read this series!  

[Barbara Strickland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving, loving this paranormal

Vampires, weres and magic are not new but every once in a while an original twist comes along and we are reminded what imagination can bring to the world of reading. This is the same and it is different, fresh somehow and I am hooked although presently disappointed I have to wait another month for the next book.
The novel is about fighting for what is right and being willing to accept the brutality that comes with power play, it is about love and loyalty and the fear to take a chance. I want to shake our lovely lead for not grabbing what is offered but I also feel her trepidation. A very compelling read particularly since the setting is so vivid with the smatterings of the Spanish language so beautifully scattered throughout the pages.
If you decide to read this then read the first one before you start. You won’t regret it as this is shaping up to be a great series.

[Erin Knuth · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Perhaps you do not belong to me,” he whispered against her forehead, incapable at the moment of any other volume. “But I certainly belong to you.”

What a way to start my reading year. Utter perfection. Truly. A gentlemanly vampire, a determined supernatural bounty hunter, tension that lives in your spine, mysteries and magic, and the most lush backdrops one can imagine. This isn't a book you read. Cazadora is a book you LIVE.

This book reads like it was written hundreds of years ago. The points of view slip between everyone and everything. Every moment is filled with yearning. If it's not the characters, then it's the reader, yearning to slip into this magical, marvelous supernatural world. I cannot WAIT to sink like silk into the rest of the series.

[Beverly Laude · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cazadora, the Huntress, is a unique addition to the PNR genre. Dakota del Toro is a kickass heroine whose job is to take down errant werewolves. But, she is also working with a group of vampires to take on a diabolical vampire lord.

A well-written book, with well-developed characters and loads of action. Twists in the storyline will keep you reading until you can find out what will happen.

This book was especially appealing to me since I live in New Mexico and love reading books set in my state. Ms. DeBarrioz captures the feel of Santa Fe throughout the book, including the art world and the beautiful landscapes. If you like vampires, werewolves, witches and other supernatural beings, this book has something for you.

[M.S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Preternatural beings, page-turning action, slow burn romance collide in this must-read fantasy novel

Holy. Crap. On. A. Cracker. This book is phenomenal. More of Dakota del Toro being awesome. More action and intrigue surrounding the world of werewolves, vampires, witches, and everything else other. And more Diego de Gama (more on him later because … damn). Hefty though this tome may be, I still tore through its pages needing to know what happens.

But one of the most brilliant things about this book is that it isn’t just plot driven. Don’t get me wrong, the plot is fantastic — Dakota is once again in search of a missing young woman, and the chase, the subplots, and how everything come together, is nothing short of spectacular. However. The characters are so beautifully deep and realistic, their personalities so perfectly woven with their reactions and interactions, that they are all now indelibly written in ink on my heart. Dakota is fierce yet still vulnerable in many ways. Diego is … sigh … if he were real … well, I wouldn’t want to fight Dakota for him, but I’d be sorely tempted. He’s simply a stunning mix of predator and romantic, rebel and patient observer.

Back to the plot though, because this one had a twist, and one I should’ve seen coming. Don’t get me wrong, I figured it out eventually, but only *just* before the actual reveal. I’m not usually surprised by twists, so brava Ms. DeBarrioz. And while this particular part of the story was very satisfactorily tied up, there’s clearly quite a bit more yet to know, and I’m itching to get my hands on the next installment.

Short version? If you like fantasy, action, creatures that go bump in the night (because our capable heroine just kicked some preternatural you-know-what), slow burn romance, and just a really well written, captivating book, then you need to read this. Pronto.

[Tanith Dempster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve just finished my next Dakota fix and loved every minute. This book continued smoothly from the prequel. In this book, we see Dakota’s life getting more complicated and exciting. We see our main characters grow and mature. I wanted to shake both Dakota and Diego at times. They’re killing me here, haha. They’re all smoking hot tease.

The author builds such beautiful characters that you root for all the characters, no matter how minor their role is. I even wanted the book to suddenly become a reverse harem, so that poor Eduardo got a look in. He’s a lovable rogue who makes me sad.

In other books I’ve read, the kiss scenes are there to lead into steamy sex moments. However, this author writes kiss scenes that feel like steamy sex scenes. Great skills there.

Cazadora - Huntress. Just love that name. Sounds so fancy in Spanish, and knowing it means huntress heightens the aura of the word.

The book could do with a professional edit, and I don’t care. I love the series so much. There are quite a few head hops that can confuse the reader about who is thinking and saying what. Oddly though, I found it surprisingly enjoyable, for all that clearing head hops is classed as an editing requirement. I liked knowing what Diego was thinking at the same time as Dakota.

I have a deep appreciation for indie authors and the never-ending list of costs to get a book out. I say, gently, to the author that if there ever was a series worth spending precious cash on for an editor, it’s yours.

Even more importantly, though, just keep writing.

Book 2 - The Fiercest Star is up next - yay!

[Rabid Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dekota Del Toro is a strong, no nonsense bounty hunter working for the Preternatural Control Team. Her job is to capture werewolves, in the hope that by studying them a cure will be found. Instead of a strait forward retrieval job, she hits complications and her investigation brings her into the middle of a vampire conflict, where she meets Diego. Diego De Gama is a 400 year old vampire who wants to overthrow the current leadership and make the territory a more peaceful place. He is the sort of guy you want to trust but you are not sure he is trustworthy. Of course, any takeover bid is wrought with strife and the two of them battle not only vampires and werewolves but a few other paranormal races too. The developing romance between the two of them is enjoyable, the strong connection they feel is obvious and watching them figure out what to do about it is entertaining. This book is complex, intriguing and action packed with a tinge of humour (such as a demon dance hall owner) thrown in here and there. It is well written and has appealing characters, the take she puts on vampires also makes the book somewhat different to other books in this genre. All in all it is an enjoyable read. I received this book from Candid Book Reviews in exchange for an honest review.

[Niki Driscoll · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really great storyline filled with some unique twists. I will be honest, when I first starting reading it I was not sure that I was going to like it. Somewhere around the second or third chapter I thought OK, this pretty good. From then on my thoughts were consumed with the storyline and the characters. This is a long read, its a good one but I wanted to prepare you. Dakota is not your average Bounty Hunter, she understands there are good and bad in every species. She is one tough SOB, she reminds me of one of those webbles that my son played with as a child, I think the saying was that weebles wobble but they don't fall down. No matter what is thrown at her she gets right back up. The story was well written, the characters were interesting and it was definitely an exciting adventure. The action was fast and seemed non stop, the underlying mystery keeps you glued to the pages and the witty commentary between characters will make you smile. Usually I am pretty good at figuring out who is who, but I have to say that Ms. DeBarrioz did a good job of keeping me from figuring it all out. I will definitely be picking up book 2 in this series and look forward to reading great stories from this author in the future.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

More like 3.5 stars, if only because of a few things I cannot say without spoiling the book. I wish I knew that there was a book 0 to this, or I might have been able to follow the Diego/Dakota plot a little more (or not, but I hope so).
Dakota del Toro is a preternatural bounty hunter in Santa Fe, NM and the surrounding areas. Her and the rest of her team hunt weres (werewolves/were people), vampires, and witches. She’s also friends with several vampires. After killing a were that tests negative, she finds herself in trouble...again, but soon finds out that he’s not the only one. She also takes a job against her better judgment to find the missing daughter of a well known narco.
This wasn’t a bad story, but it was another story with a “strong” woman who could kick serious arse who not only kept putting herself in stupid, dangerous situations alone, but seemed to have a constant need for validation and self doubt. Then there’s the Diego thing. It’s clear they may have had at least something at some point, but not what. So she doesn’t trust him, but keeps running to him. They kiss, she gets all mushy, she runs away. Lather, rinse, repeat. It’s difficult to say who’s the moron: her or him.

[T.K. Lawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very different and happily so. Dakota is a spunky character you can identify with. She is mature, capable, and independent but has insecurities that are understandable as you get into the plot. Unfortunately, she has become cautious when it comes to romance and love, partly due to a devilishly handsome, charismatic, Diego- a character the reader wants to trust but can't. I loved how each scene put you in a different setting or frame of mind and makes you feel as if you are sharing the adventure, walking or sometimes running right beside Dakota. I want to thank the author for a well-written, inventive, unique read. What a refreshing change from the regular Vampire stories being published today. I can't wait to find out what the author has in store for future adventures with Dakota.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cazadora was a great book. It had so many twists that it held my attention and I was completely enthralled with it. It was filled with adventure and had me wondering what would happen next, and with Dakota being a bounty hunter, that could be anything. I really liked this book and the spin on vampires and werewolves. I will definitely be reading more!

Dakota is a bounty hunter with the Preternatural Control Team who is chasing her mark, a werewolf, but when he is tested, the results come back human. Dakota knows her mark was a werewolf, so she decides to do some investigating. When she runs into Diego, a vampire revolutionary, she enlists his help in finding out what's going on. Little does she know she just might find love in the process.

[Virgen Caraballo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought that the author did a wonderful job at writing this story and I enjoyed reading the book very much! It had a little of everything like action, love, danger, mystery, etc.plus in many ways it it kept me guessing. Dakota del Toro is a very good bounty hunter and she is a heroine and a a very feisty one. Diego de Gama is a Vampire and all he wants is the to love Estrella that's his nick name for Dakota. They become friends and allies. They have to fight many enemies! I would recommend this book for you to read for I enjoyed it.

[W.A. Ashes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author never ceases to amaze me! I feel like I can’t finish one of her books and just walk right back into reality. Cazadora was as captivating as Debarrioz’s first Dakota Del Torro book (Companera). The world she’s created is fun and dangerous. Each character is unique and I didn’t see the twist at the end coming! I loved every moment of reading this book. With a badass babe like Dakota, a suave gentleman like Diego, a roguishly handsome bandit, and a plot that keeps thickening, you can’t go wrong. I can’t wait to read the next book!

[Kaila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one.. It was odd and different but full of surprises and lots of adventure. I loved the vampire twists and loved the bounty hunter and loved all the different paranormals... It was so much fun to read and I'm so glad I got to review it.

[Dawn Line · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a paranormal story that isn't cheesy or sleazy, this is the book for you. From the beginning, this story grabbed me and wouldn't let go.

Dakota is a member of PCT, the branch of law enforcement that deals with paranormal crimes. When we first meet her, she's on the trail of a shapeshifter...who, after the arrest, doesn't test for lycanthropy in his blood. How can this be, when she has a "feel" for them? Well, that's part of the story that I don't want to give away.

Diego is "The Outllier," a vampire who is preparing to contest the current Master Vampire's control. He also has a soft spot for Dakota and, in the past, has gotten her in trouble at work for marking her to protect her.

Along with the potentially budding romance between the Hunter and Vampire, and the aforementioned shapeshifter, you'll encounter police, mafia, witches, nymphs, a siren, and other paranormal creatures in this well-written story. Oh, and Dakota's father, who has created a drug to "cure" the shape shifters.