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Midnight Breed #14
Defy the Dawn
Daywalker Brynne Kirkland survived a hellish upbringing as a product of a madman's lab. Tough, driven, and devoted to her work in law enforcement, Brynne has never dared to risk opening her heart to anyone--least of all a handsome immortal from a world on the verge of war against hers.
Atlantean warrior Zael left the intrigue of his realm several lifetimes ago, along with the battles he fought as one of the queen's legion. As a free-spirited loner walking the fringe of two worlds--that of his secretive and powerful people, and the outside world belonging to mankind and the Breed--it was never his intention to return to combat and bloodshed. Nor had he imagined that he might ever be tempted into anything stronger than desire . . . until he meets Brynne.
Thrust together as allies of the Order in the fight against a diabolical enemy, Zael and Brynne embark on a mission that will ultimately force them to decide between duty to their people, and a passion that defies all bounds.
Atlantean warrior Zael left the intrigue of his realm several lifetimes ago, along with the battles he fought as one of the queen's legion. As a free-spirited loner walking the fringe of two worlds--that of his secretive and powerful people, and the outside world belonging to mankind and the Breed--it was never his intention to return to combat and bloodshed. Nor had he imagined that he might ever be tempted into anything stronger than desire . . . until he meets Brynne.
Thrust together as allies of the Order in the fight against a diabolical enemy, Zael and Brynne embark on a mission that will ultimately force them to decide between duty to their people, and a passion that defies all bounds.
228 pages, ebook
First published August 31, 2016
521 people are currently reading
4540 people want to read
About the author
Lara Adrian
92 books11k followersLARA ADRIAN is a New York Times and #1 internationally best-selling author with nearly 4 million books in print and digital worldwide and translations licensed to more than 20 countries. Her books have been named among Amazon’s Top Ten Romances of the Year, and have also been nominated by readers multiple times as finalists for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance of the Year. Reviewers have called Lara’s books “addictively readable” (Chicago Tribune), “extraordinary” (Fresh Fiction), “strikingly original” (Booklist), and “one of the best vampire series on the market” (Romantic Times).
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
September 30, 2018
You ever read a book that you don't really like, but you don't hate it? One where it's kinda boring and you are not really connecting but you have to finish it because it's part of a beloved series? Yup that is this book for me. I didn't feel anything for Zael, and Brynne annoyed me. I found myself getting bored and walking away from the book. It took me 3 days to finish it. Overall I didn't hate it. Hate is a strong emotion and this made me feel nothing but the need for a nap. I think it was just the couple. Oh well on to the next one!
June 12, 2018
This may be the 14 Th book in the series, but the series is still going strong and kept interesting! I have enjoyed all of the Midnight Breeds stories and I still am eager for more! Definitely a must read series for paranormal romance... I highly recommend it!!
September 29, 2016
Atlantean warrior Ekizael or Zael
Special ability: Very strong, Powerful atlantean light from his palms, He also carries powerful accessories (bracelet).
Age: Immortal, He was there when Antlantis fell and he has stopped counting the centuries a long time ago.
Breed mate & Breed Brynne Kirkland
Special abilities: Daywalker, Secret hidden second self
Occupation: Worked for JUSTICE (Joint Urban Security Taskforce Initiative Squad) London branch
Mark place: Not specified
Settings: Washington, London, Athens (Greece), Dublin and Finglas (Ireland), Mediterranean sea
This is a very important book as the love story is focusing on an Atlantean warrior male, rather than a Breed male like in the previous books. The storyline from the previous book continues.
Zael, born from light - Brynne, bred from darkness.
Zael and Brynne have picked a wrong time to start their story. Their story has begun in Order’s terrace patio in book “Bound to Darkness”. In this book Zael still finds Brynne unpredictable, unforgettable and irresistible and follow her back in London.
Unfortunately, lots of terrorist attacks, explosions and open fire attacks (which really remind me many of the real terrorist attacks that are taking place in our poor planet this year, 2016) and many rogue breeds attacks have occurred. The Order can afford no distraction.
The book provides a strong booster to the continuation of the Order’s in particular and the Breeds’ story in general and it has enhanced the big picture of
-how Breeds are perceived by humans
-who are their allies and who are their enemies
-who are the Atlanteans and their mysterious queen.
-what are the historical events that defined the relationship between the Order and the Atlanteans.
BUT (and this is a strong BUT) I felt that the main love story is lacking. Too many characters are present, like:
-the old generation of the Order and their breedmates
-the children of the Order and their breedmates
-the Order leaders around the world
-Opus Nostrum
-the Antlanteans and their Elders
-some new characters with potential impact to the story (e.g. a new breedmate from Ireland)
Somehow the love story loses its focus and it moves away from the spotlight. I believe the amount of pages spent on this love story is much less than the amount of pages spent on the historical events of Breeds that are taking place in this book. I wanted more on Zael and Brynne. More character development, more resistance, more internal battles.
Nevertheless, it is a very enjoyable book. Lovers of Breed series have definitely to read it; otherwise they will miss a great deal of important information concerning the Breeds and the Order.
Special ability: Very strong, Powerful atlantean light from his palms, He also carries powerful accessories (bracelet).
Age: Immortal, He was there when Antlantis fell and he has stopped counting the centuries a long time ago.
Breed mate & Breed Brynne Kirkland
Special abilities: Daywalker, Secret hidden second self
Occupation: Worked for JUSTICE (Joint Urban Security Taskforce Initiative Squad) London branch
Mark place: Not specified
Settings: Washington, London, Athens (Greece), Dublin and Finglas (Ireland), Mediterranean sea
This is a very important book as the love story is focusing on an Atlantean warrior male, rather than a Breed male like in the previous books. The storyline from the previous book continues.
Zael, born from light - Brynne, bred from darkness.
Zael and Brynne have picked a wrong time to start their story. Their story has begun in Order’s terrace patio in book “Bound to Darkness”. In this book Zael still finds Brynne unpredictable, unforgettable and irresistible and follow her back in London.
Unfortunately, lots of terrorist attacks, explosions and open fire attacks (which really remind me many of the real terrorist attacks that are taking place in our poor planet this year, 2016) and many rogue breeds attacks have occurred. The Order can afford no distraction.
The book provides a strong booster to the continuation of the Order’s in particular and the Breeds’ story in general and it has enhanced the big picture of
-how Breeds are perceived by humans
-who are their allies and who are their enemies
-who are the Atlanteans and their mysterious queen.
-what are the historical events that defined the relationship between the Order and the Atlanteans.
BUT (and this is a strong BUT) I felt that the main love story is lacking. Too many characters are present, like:
-the old generation of the Order and their breedmates
-the children of the Order and their breedmates
-the Order leaders around the world
-Opus Nostrum
-the Antlanteans and their Elders
-some new characters with potential impact to the story (e.g. a new breedmate from Ireland)
Somehow the love story loses its focus and it moves away from the spotlight. I believe the amount of pages spent on this love story is much less than the amount of pages spent on the historical events of Breeds that are taking place in this book. I wanted more on Zael and Brynne. More character development, more resistance, more internal battles.
Nevertheless, it is a very enjoyable book. Lovers of Breed series have definitely to read it; otherwise they will miss a great deal of important information concerning the Breeds and the Order.
September 6, 2016
Five biting fangs!
I've loved the series from the start. Don't think I've read a bad book anywhere in its lineup. Tons of action, plenty of suspense and oooh yes there is blood. The sex is straightforward, hotter then hell but not overly done and chemistry, yeah get hot flashes, big time.
I've loved the series from the start. Don't think I've read a bad book anywhere in its lineup. Tons of action, plenty of suspense and oooh yes there is blood. The sex is straightforward, hotter then hell but not overly done and chemistry, yeah get hot flashes, big time.
April 13, 2019
AFTER READING:
SPOILERS AHEAD, BE WARNED!
I loved this book as much I love any other book in the Midnight Breed series.
Brynne is one of my favorite heroines so far. I liked her "little" secret. Zael was OK I guess.
This book introduced Selene and again I had this feeling that she will fall-in-love with Darion Thorne. They had a scene together and, boy, it was intense. There was one particular Breedmate saved by Rafe. Her name is Siobhan and I think that she will be his heroine.
The only thing that this book lacked was a real enemy. Also, the "Atlantean colony drama" was introduced just to be introduced and to cause the main couple some problems. Luckily it was all resolved pretty quickly.
BEFORE RELEASE:
ZAEL & BRYNNA!
SPOILERS AHEAD, BE WARNED!
I loved this book as much I love any other book in the Midnight Breed series.
Brynne is one of my favorite heroines so far. I liked her "little" secret. Zael was OK I guess.
This book introduced Selene and again I had this feeling that she will fall-in-love with Darion Thorne. They had a scene together and, boy, it was intense. There was one particular Breedmate saved by Rafe. Her name is Siobhan and I think that she will be his heroine.
The only thing that this book lacked was a real enemy. Also, the "Atlantean colony drama" was introduced just to be introduced and to cause the main couple some problems. Luckily it was all resolved pretty quickly.
BEFORE RELEASE:
ZAEL & BRYNNA!
October 29, 2016
I love this series.
Defy the Dawn by Lara Adrian is the 14th book in her Midnight Breeds Series and picks up after the end of Bound to Darkness.
This is the story of Brynne, a day-walking, Breed female and Zael, an Atlantean defector who we have met before....he's formed an alliance with the Breed Order.
I liked the two main characters. They have great chemistry together.
The world that the author has created has developed amazingly since the 1st book. The characters are interesting and I like the way the series has progressed......we now get to meet the new generation, which keeps the series fresh.
I am enjoying how the Midnight Breed world is changing and evolving and it's great to meet up with familiar characters and meet some new ones.....
This is one of my favourite paranormal romance series and I am looking forward to the next book.
Defy the Dawn by Lara Adrian is the 14th book in her Midnight Breeds Series and picks up after the end of Bound to Darkness.
This is the story of Brynne, a day-walking, Breed female and Zael, an Atlantean defector who we have met before....he's formed an alliance with the Breed Order.
I liked the two main characters. They have great chemistry together.
The world that the author has created has developed amazingly since the 1st book. The characters are interesting and I like the way the series has progressed......we now get to meet the new generation, which keeps the series fresh.
I am enjoying how the Midnight Breed world is changing and evolving and it's great to meet up with familiar characters and meet some new ones.....
This is one of my favourite paranormal romance series and I am looking forward to the next book.
September 3, 2016
Surprisingly very very good! 4.5 well deserved stars. Kudos to the author for her writing quality even after all these books in the series.
I liked so much both the characters. The story was refreshing and interesting. New things are developing in "Midnight breed" world.
I read this book in one sitting and it didn't disappoint me at all. Brynne and Zael were a very hot couple. I liked a little bit more the girl, though. She was strong and her background story was outstanding. How could Zael Not fall for her? They really make a beautiful pair. And the steamy scenes were OFF the chart. Omg, Lara still rocks those scenes. The chemistry is unbearable ( in the best way!)
I like the Atlanteans. They're so remarkable (the men, not women). There are some very potential couples hinted in this book. I'm so looking forward to the next one.
I liked so much both the characters. The story was refreshing and interesting. New things are developing in "Midnight breed" world.
I read this book in one sitting and it didn't disappoint me at all. Brynne and Zael were a very hot couple. I liked a little bit more the girl, though. She was strong and her background story was outstanding. How could Zael Not fall for her? They really make a beautiful pair. And the steamy scenes were OFF the chart. Omg, Lara still rocks those scenes. The chemistry is unbearable ( in the best way!)
I like the Atlanteans. They're so remarkable (the men, not women). There are some very potential couples hinted in this book. I'm so looking forward to the next one.
September 6, 2016
4 Female Gen One Stars!!
Brynne Kirkland is a JUSTIS agent, and Zael, who is an Atlantean Warrior, who we met and found out in the last book is (Rio’s mate) Dylan's father. Brynne and Zeal have a strong mutual attraction but Brynne is hiding a secret that prevents her from acting on that powerful attraction. Brynne is a Gen One Breed female, a day walker, friend to The Order, and half-sister to Tavia Chase who is the breedmate to The Orders Sterling “Harvard” Chase.
Brynne, is hiding nightmarish secret of her upbringing along with the horrific abuse she suffered from Dragos, but she has a much darker secret that she feels she must protect, Dragos depravity was particularly horrific towards Brynne and her story broke my heart.
When the The Orders enemy Opus Nostrum make an aggressive attacks on the JUSTIS headquarters in London and other attacks around the world, unsettles the delicate truce between the immortals and mortals. The Order finds themselves in a potentially dangerous situation and it’s all hands on deck…I LOVED seeing Lucian, Chase, and Dante along with some of the other original warriors back doing what they do best, fighting an enemy and kicking ass!!
This is where Brynne’s secret is exposed to Zael, and to say he was a bit put off is putting it mildly. However; he took care of her and whisked her away from danger and more importantly exposure. This is also where we get her backstory when she confides in Zael and tells him everything….I have to say Zael captured my heart the way he took care of her, listened to her, and let her know that regardless of everything the connection he feels for her is still there and now stronger than ever.
There were a couple of new characters introduced and I’m excited to see where Lara Adrian takes us next. I will say I’m hoping for one of her novella’s for Trygg the Warror under Lazaro’s order, he is described as “massive behemoth with a forbidding demeanor, an intimidating scowling male with a shaved head and glyph-covered arms” I have a feeling he and the exiled Atlantean female Tamisia will have a connection…hopefully….maybe? There is also the possibility Rafe (Dante & Tess’ son) and a breedmate he rescued….we shall see.
Naturally there is much more going on with Opus, the Atlantean Queen, the Atlantean Colony, The Order and Human race. I don’t want to give anything away so you’ll have to read it for yourself, once again Lara Adrian does not disappoint!!
Brynne Kirkland is a JUSTIS agent, and Zael, who is an Atlantean Warrior, who we met and found out in the last book is (Rio’s mate) Dylan's father. Brynne and Zeal have a strong mutual attraction but Brynne is hiding a secret that prevents her from acting on that powerful attraction. Brynne is a Gen One Breed female, a day walker, friend to The Order, and half-sister to Tavia Chase who is the breedmate to The Orders Sterling “Harvard” Chase.
Brynne, is hiding nightmarish secret of her upbringing along with the horrific abuse she suffered from Dragos, but she has a much darker secret that she feels she must protect, Dragos depravity was particularly horrific towards Brynne and her story broke my heart.
When the The Orders enemy Opus Nostrum make an aggressive attacks on the JUSTIS headquarters in London and other attacks around the world, unsettles the delicate truce between the immortals and mortals. The Order finds themselves in a potentially dangerous situation and it’s all hands on deck…I LOVED seeing Lucian, Chase, and Dante along with some of the other original warriors back doing what they do best, fighting an enemy and kicking ass!!
This is where Brynne’s secret is exposed to Zael, and to say he was a bit put off is putting it mildly. However; he took care of her and whisked her away from danger and more importantly exposure. This is also where we get her backstory when she confides in Zael and tells him everything….I have to say Zael captured my heart the way he took care of her, listened to her, and let her know that regardless of everything the connection he feels for her is still there and now stronger than ever.
There were a couple of new characters introduced and I’m excited to see where Lara Adrian takes us next. I will say I’m hoping for one of her novella’s for Trygg the Warror under Lazaro’s order, he is described as “massive behemoth with a forbidding demeanor, an intimidating scowling male with a shaved head and glyph-covered arms” I have a feeling he and the exiled Atlantean female Tamisia will have a connection…hopefully….maybe? There is also the possibility Rafe (Dante & Tess’ son) and a breedmate he rescued….we shall see.
Naturally there is much more going on with Opus, the Atlantean Queen, the Atlantean Colony, The Order and Human race. I don’t want to give anything away so you’ll have to read it for yourself, once again Lara Adrian does not disappoint!!
October 16, 2016
i have one word for this book AWESOME! this is one of my favorite midnight breed books!!! i have loved zael since lara introduced him! hes a hot sexy alpha male all the way!!! i loved him and brynne story its hot from page one to the the last page. its another hot love story filled with sex, surrender and in the end love. lara adrian is the master of the paranormal romance. ive never read a book by this author that isnt a five star read. cant wait for the next midnight breed novel! im hooked!!! if you like your love stories with alittle BITE read one of her midnight breed books these vamps are hot!!
September 12, 2016
Loved this novella, so much happens in such a short book but I'd expect nothing less from Lara Adrian!
I have to say this series only dipped for me once but it's right back where it was when I read the first book a few years ago, I love the Breed!!
I have to say this series only dipped for me once but it's right back where it was when I read the first book a few years ago, I love the Breed!!
September 5, 2016
The highly anticipated fourteenth book in the Midnight Breed series is finally here! DEFY THE DAWN was pushed back but now that I have read it, I can say that it was definitely worth the wait.
DEFY THE DAWN reminds me a lot of what I loved about the first few books in the series. There’s great action and suspense and there’s also a lot of complex worldbuilding and politics in play, but at the heart of it all, these books are epic romances.
I absolutely fell in love with the hero of this book. Zeal reminds me of the original heroes of this series. There’s just something about him that oozes sex appeal and Adrian only amplifies that with each scorching scene in this book. He’s the epitome of hotness, and I think he very well knows that, but what’s unique is that he’s also not what he seems. There’s a part of him that remains mysterious and for me, that only added to his allure.
The heroine was also one of my favorite things about this book. Brynne has his tough girl attitude but yet again, she has her own set of vulnerabilities as well. Zeal tempts her like no other and I can’t blame her for falling for him. However, I also felt that she held back a little too much. Maybe it was because I was already head over heels in love with Zeal already that I was rooting for him, but I almost wished Brynne gave in a little bit sooner. That being said though, I understand why she acted the way she did. It was much more believable and benefited the story a little bit more.
While I liked the recent books in the series, DEFY THE DAWN reminded me so much of the earlier books that I wanted to reread them all over again after reading this. The presence of the Order is much more prevalent in this book and I think that helped in making the loyal readers of this series happy. There’s also a little less angst and more focus on the romance and politics of the world. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to see what will happen next!
February 7, 2017
This love story actually began in the last book but Daywalker Brynne Kirkland just got fired from her job at JUSTIS. She is forced to see refuge with the Order and her half-sister Tavia Chase. Atlantean warrior Ekizael just happened to see Brynne at a club and their attraction get the best of them. When Zael sees Brynne in trouble and finds out her secret, it actually bonds them together more closely. See,
Brynne is a Gen One Breedmate who is also a daywalker. The experiments conducted by Dragos had some unfortunate side effects for Brynne, and she harbored that secret form from everyone. Zael didn’t shy away from her and he actually nursed her back to physical and mental health.
Together, they set out to aid Lucan Thorne and The Order by attempting to forge an alliance between the Atlantean Queen and The Order because the Atlantean can help in the war with Opus Nostrum. After the last attack on the JUSTIS building made it obvious that The Order needed all the help they can get.
I enjoyed this book because Brynne fought her feelings for so long. The author made Zael work f or it. Not only were they hot as a pair, but the author used their love journey to advance the plot against the ancients. The audiobook was very entertaining and the narrator made the Brynne feel both strong and capable, yet vulnerable. Zael’s voice radiated strength and gentleness that was perfect to a lonely and isolated Brynne. They were two peas in a pod. There was plenty of action, suspense and foreshadowing for the next book. Certainly the same formula that we have come to expect from Lara Adrian and I can’t wait for the next book.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2017
I was a little underwhelmed by Defy the Dawn. I was hoping for a little more from Zeal and Brynne’s story. I feel like this installment was a filler/bridge book to get us close to war with Opus Nostrum and/or fight with the Atlantean Queen. I have a feeling I’m falling out of love with this series. I don’t think it’s Adrain’s writing, I’ve just lost interest and all these new characters mixed with the old is becoming too much to juggle. I feel like the Midnight Breed series is going the way of the BDB series in there is too many characters in each book. Let the new characters have more page time and let the old characters fade into the back.
I wrote a post a couple of years ago, “PNR Warriors, Over them?". I think I might be finally be to the point where I am over them.
Ms. Huber does a great job with the narration of the Midnight Breed series. I have to say I think I enjoy her male voices more than the female ones. LOL She has a great voice to reach the timber of the Breed males. While I may be done with this series, I would definitely listen to more of Huber’s work.
I wrote a post a couple of years ago, “PNR Warriors, Over them?". I think I might be finally be to the point where I am over them.
Ms. Huber does a great job with the narration of the Midnight Breed series. I have to say I think I enjoy her male voices more than the female ones. LOL She has a great voice to reach the timber of the Breed males. While I may be done with this series, I would definitely listen to more of Huber’s work.
February 11, 2019
3 1/2 Stars!
I liked this one just fine, but I didn't see much progress with the series arch. So it was a little bit meh, but still good if that makes sense.
I felt a little ambivalent toward Brynn, but I'm happy her and Zieal were happy. If you're a fan of the series, I'd say read it. It seems like a building block. Happy reading!
I liked this one just fine, but I didn't see much progress with the series arch. So it was a little bit meh, but still good if that makes sense.
I felt a little ambivalent toward Brynn, but I'm happy her and Zieal were happy. If you're a fan of the series, I'd say read it. It seems like a building block. Happy reading!
August 31, 2019
Defy the Dawn is book 14 in the Midnight Breed series and was an ok read for me. I found myself annoyed with Brynne and bored with the overall story. It took me days to read and if it wasn't part of the series I would have skipped it. I did like Zael and I loved how caring he was with Brynne. I did enjoy their connection but when Brynne pushed him away yet again towards the end I was pretty much done. Overall I'm glad I finished since it's part of the series and I do look forward to the next one.
January 28, 2022
Defy the Dawn
3 Stars
To be honest, this spin-off story arc focusing on the 2nd generation of Breed warriors is falling short of expectations. Neither the ongoing suspense plot nor the individual romances are fulfilling their potential.
This particular installment focuses on two relatively minor characters. Brynne Kirkland is a Daywalker and a JUSTIS agent with a horrific secret that isn't all that terrible, and her angst is repetitive and overdone. Zael is an Atlantean who has defied his queen and gone into exile with others of his race. The fact that he has been several hundred years roaming the world and sleeping with human women does not endear him.
In terms of their romantic relationship, Brynne and Zael have very little chemistry and the reason for their attraction is never fully explained or developed.
There is also very little progression in the ongoing story arc and much of the plot feels contrived and unnecessary.
I agree with many reviewers that this should have been a novella.
3 Stars
To be honest, this spin-off story arc focusing on the 2nd generation of Breed warriors is falling short of expectations. Neither the ongoing suspense plot nor the individual romances are fulfilling their potential.
This particular installment focuses on two relatively minor characters. Brynne Kirkland is a Daywalker and a JUSTIS agent with a horrific secret that isn't all that terrible, and her angst is repetitive and overdone. Zael is an Atlantean who has defied his queen and gone into exile with others of his race. The fact that he has been several hundred years roaming the world and sleeping with human women does not endear him.
In terms of their romantic relationship, Brynne and Zael have very little chemistry and the reason for their attraction is never fully explained or developed.
There is also very little progression in the ongoing story arc and much of the plot feels contrived and unnecessary.
I agree with many reviewers that this should have been a novella.
June 17, 2019
Defy the Dawn by Lara Adrian has been on my TBR for awhile and I've been dying to get back to this series I've fallen behind on. I was really interested in a relationship with an Atlantean. I wanted to know more about their world. It was also interesting to learn more about the daywalking Breed females.
Brynne had some terrible effects from the DNA combination she received from Dragos. She wasn't like Tavia and she didn't want anyone to know. Zael, the Atlantean warrior has had Brynne's interest since she first saw him, but she is too afraid to follow through on her attraction because of her secrets. When Zael discovers Brynne's secret and he ends up using his power, Selene, the queen of the Atlanteans zeroes in on his location and threatens the Order. It is then up to Zael and Brynne to help setup an alliance with the Atlantean colony that defected from Selene.
Defy the Dawn focused mainly on the couple's relationship with the business of attaining the alliance kind of a secondary thing. Brynne's reluctance to saddle Zael with a life with a monster was understandable but sad. I wanted to see her happy and to come to terms with what she is. It was good to see Zael work at convincing Brynne that she was still desirable even with her monster side.
I liked Zael. He had a sad story with Dylan's mother that was haunting him. Brynne helped him with that. Zael just seemed so caring and genuine. He was loyal to his people but willing to build a relationship with the Order. The colony was an interesting place. The action that takes place there was brief but game changing. It seems like nowhere is safe from betrayal and terrorism.
Defy the Dawn does bring on new attacks by Opus Nostrum that the Order is left dealing with. This will likely continue through the next book and I'm really scared for what this chaos they are bringing is going to mean for the lifestyle of the Breed.
I am happy to be back in the world of the Breed. This book me back to the adult feel of the series. The previous books that focused on the children of the original Breed males had me feeling more in the New Adult realm. I still enjoyed them, but it felt kind of weird reading about the romances of characters I still saw as children.
Defy the Dawn was an enjoyable read and I'm really glad I am catching up on this series. I have missed it. This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
Brynne had some terrible effects from the DNA combination she received from Dragos. She wasn't like Tavia and she didn't want anyone to know. Zael, the Atlantean warrior has had Brynne's interest since she first saw him, but she is too afraid to follow through on her attraction because of her secrets. When Zael discovers Brynne's secret and he ends up using his power, Selene, the queen of the Atlanteans zeroes in on his location and threatens the Order. It is then up to Zael and Brynne to help setup an alliance with the Atlantean colony that defected from Selene.
Defy the Dawn focused mainly on the couple's relationship with the business of attaining the alliance kind of a secondary thing. Brynne's reluctance to saddle Zael with a life with a monster was understandable but sad. I wanted to see her happy and to come to terms with what she is. It was good to see Zael work at convincing Brynne that she was still desirable even with her monster side.
I liked Zael. He had a sad story with Dylan's mother that was haunting him. Brynne helped him with that. Zael just seemed so caring and genuine. He was loyal to his people but willing to build a relationship with the Order. The colony was an interesting place. The action that takes place there was brief but game changing. It seems like nowhere is safe from betrayal and terrorism.
Defy the Dawn does bring on new attacks by Opus Nostrum that the Order is left dealing with. This will likely continue through the next book and I'm really scared for what this chaos they are bringing is going to mean for the lifestyle of the Breed.
I am happy to be back in the world of the Breed. This book me back to the adult feel of the series. The previous books that focused on the children of the original Breed males had me feeling more in the New Adult realm. I still enjoyed them, but it felt kind of weird reading about the romances of characters I still saw as children.
Defy the Dawn was an enjoyable read and I'm really glad I am catching up on this series. I have missed it. This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
August 13, 2018
My reading adventures have recently got me going back to series that I read and loved years ago. Now I’m catching up on books that have been published during a genre hiatus I took. Adrian’s Midnight Breed series happens to be one of those series that made me fall in love with the paranormal romance genre. The world has evolved so much since I got to know this world.
Brynne and Zael have been present for the past couple of books. There attraction for each other had already been noted. As a couple falling into their love story they had good chemistry and plenty of sexy page time. As a couple moving a series forward they didn’t add anything. Perhaps in a future book they will be the connection that the Order needs when it comes to getting something from the exiled Atlantean colony. In the now their story could have been a novella.
Zael was one of Selene’s guards before Atlantis fell. He has seen firsthand the atrocities that the Breed Ancients were capable of. He also has experienced enough of Selene as a vengeful ruler that he has chosen to live his life in the hidden Atlantean colony.
One of the things I’ve wondered about with this series is what happened to the Dragos experiments. While torturing Breed Mates in his labs he created his Hunters, Breed females, and Daywalkers. Brynne is one of those creations. She is also Tavia’s half-sister. She also just earned the title of my least favorite heroine of the Midnight Breed series.
My biggest disappointment with Defy the Dawn was that the conflict that is currently keeping the Order on the brink of war seemed minimal to the point that it was almost nonexistent. Opus Nostrum did cause a few issues in their constant trouble making with the Order. Atlantean Queen Selene made some threats. There were of course some skirmishes that had to be fought but none of it seemed to move that part of this world forward any.
Readers are also at the point where we are fourteen books into a series. We’ve also had a huge time jump that allowed most of the original ten couples to have children. Every single one of those couples either had a single line of dialogue or they were randomly mentioned. It wasn’t necessarily overwhelming but it seemed unnecessary.
Brynne and Zael have been present for the past couple of books. There attraction for each other had already been noted. As a couple falling into their love story they had good chemistry and plenty of sexy page time. As a couple moving a series forward they didn’t add anything. Perhaps in a future book they will be the connection that the Order needs when it comes to getting something from the exiled Atlantean colony. In the now their story could have been a novella.
Zael was one of Selene’s guards before Atlantis fell. He has seen firsthand the atrocities that the Breed Ancients were capable of. He also has experienced enough of Selene as a vengeful ruler that he has chosen to live his life in the hidden Atlantean colony.
One of the things I’ve wondered about with this series is what happened to the Dragos experiments. While torturing Breed Mates in his labs he created his Hunters, Breed females, and Daywalkers. Brynne is one of those creations. She is also Tavia’s half-sister. She also just earned the title of my least favorite heroine of the Midnight Breed series.
My biggest disappointment with Defy the Dawn was that the conflict that is currently keeping the Order on the brink of war seemed minimal to the point that it was almost nonexistent. Opus Nostrum did cause a few issues in their constant trouble making with the Order. Atlantean Queen Selene made some threats. There were of course some skirmishes that had to be fought but none of it seemed to move that part of this world forward any.
Readers are also at the point where we are fourteen books into a series. We’ve also had a huge time jump that allowed most of the original ten couples to have children. Every single one of those couples either had a single line of dialogue or they were randomly mentioned. It wasn’t necessarily overwhelming but it seemed unnecessary.
October 26, 2019
2.5 Stars
Defy the Dawn is my least favorite of the Midnight Breed stories—mainly because the heroine, Brynne Kirkland, is such a self-loathing emotional basket case that she never could have been the successful JUSTIS investigator she was supposed to have been. The romance with Zael was just “there.” I expected it, but I never really connected or felt it. Hopefully this is an aberration, because I just reread all 18 of the books and novellas that preceded this one to get to the ones I haven’t read! I love the series as a whole, so hopefully it will get back on track. This one was Meh at best for me.
Defy the Dawn is my least favorite of the Midnight Breed stories—mainly because the heroine, Brynne Kirkland, is such a self-loathing emotional basket case that she never could have been the successful JUSTIS investigator she was supposed to have been. The romance with Zael was just “there.” I expected it, but I never really connected or felt it. Hopefully this is an aberration, because I just reread all 18 of the books and novellas that preceded this one to get to the ones I haven’t read! I love the series as a whole, so hopefully it will get back on track. This one was Meh at best for me.
October 15, 2016
Buddy read with Maru
March 14, 2017
3.5 - 4. Enjoyed but seemed more political than the others I have read in the series.
February 7, 2017
4 stars!
Midnight Breed book # 14. Honestly, there’s not a lot of series that would hold my attention for this long, but Lara Adrian manages to keep this series interesting, exciting, and beautifully, passionately romantic, with a wonderful mix of old and new characters and an overarching storyline that provides a great tie-in but doesn’t overwhelm the individual storylines of each book. Zael and Brynne are little-known characters that we have seen briefly in recent books, and I loved that Adrian paired them together, creating a link to the earlier stories but at the same time giving us something new to revel in.
Zael is an Atlantian warrior (Atlanteans being fairly recently identified as the race that spawned the breedmates), and has also been recently identified as the long-lost father of Dylan. He left the Atlantean world hundreds of years ago, no longer wanting to serve his megalomaniac Queen, and since then he has shifted between the human world and a secret Atlantean community. He has recently become known to the Breed and helped them out on a mission, which brought him into contact with Brynne.
Brynne is a rare female member of the Breed, the result of a genetic experimentation cooked up in Dragos’ laboratories (making her the half-sister of Tavia). Her life has been upended after a rogue mission helping the Order cost her the job that was her whole world at a Breed/human law enforcement organisation; and when strikingly gorgeous Zael re-enters her life, quickly followed by a deadly attack by bad guy organisation Opus Nostrum, her life will never be the same again.
Right from the very beginning, I loved the interactions between Zael and Brynne. He wants her, and he makes no secret of that fact, and his smooth arrogance, effortless charm and heartfelt declarations make every little flirtation absolutely sizzle.
Brynne wants him just as much, but she doesn’t allow people to get to close to her, guarding a terrifying secret that she reveals to nobody. But when the brutal attacks continue across the world, Zael and Brynne end up working together on an important mission on behalf of The Order, and sparks fly!
The chemistry is intense and the sexy time is steaming as Zael and Brynne give in to their passion for each other, but more than just sex, Zael is determined to make Brynne his and I love his no-nonsense approach with her as he pushes his way into her life, forcing her to confront her feelings.
But just when she starts to let him in and strong feelings begin to develop, they find themselves in a terrifying situation as their mission brings them to the secret Atlantean community, and right into the path of a new and unexpected danger.
This was a really great read. It sucked me in from the beginning and the mix of action, intrigue and the beautifully heartfelt romance kept me hooked all the way through. I loved Zael and Brynne as characters, and I loved the chance to catch up with pretty much all of the main players from previous books. The overarching storyline continues to build in intensity and complexity, and I’m really excited to see where the series goes from here.
I loved it – 4 stars.
Midnight Breed book # 14. Honestly, there’s not a lot of series that would hold my attention for this long, but Lara Adrian manages to keep this series interesting, exciting, and beautifully, passionately romantic, with a wonderful mix of old and new characters and an overarching storyline that provides a great tie-in but doesn’t overwhelm the individual storylines of each book. Zael and Brynne are little-known characters that we have seen briefly in recent books, and I loved that Adrian paired them together, creating a link to the earlier stories but at the same time giving us something new to revel in.
Zael is an Atlantian warrior (Atlanteans being fairly recently identified as the race that spawned the breedmates), and has also been recently identified as the long-lost father of Dylan. He left the Atlantean world hundreds of years ago, no longer wanting to serve his megalomaniac Queen, and since then he has shifted between the human world and a secret Atlantean community. He has recently become known to the Breed and helped them out on a mission, which brought him into contact with Brynne.
Brynne is a rare female member of the Breed, the result of a genetic experimentation cooked up in Dragos’ laboratories (making her the half-sister of Tavia). Her life has been upended after a rogue mission helping the Order cost her the job that was her whole world at a Breed/human law enforcement organisation; and when strikingly gorgeous Zael re-enters her life, quickly followed by a deadly attack by bad guy organisation Opus Nostrum, her life will never be the same again.
Right from the very beginning, I loved the interactions between Zael and Brynne. He wants her, and he makes no secret of that fact, and his smooth arrogance, effortless charm and heartfelt declarations make every little flirtation absolutely sizzle.
“Every time I look at you, I see the same desire in your eyes that I feel burning me up inside.”
Brynne wants him just as much, but she doesn’t allow people to get to close to her, guarding a terrifying secret that she reveals to nobody. But when the brutal attacks continue across the world, Zael and Brynne end up working together on an important mission on behalf of The Order, and sparks fly!
“When was the last time you let a man hold you?” he demanded softly. “How long has it been since you let a man make love to you?”
“That’s really none of your business.”
“Wrong.” His mouth curved, but that smile was anything but friendly. It was masculine and carnal, and it sent liquid heat curling through every fiber of her being. “You make it my business last night, Brynne. You kissed me like you needed it more than your next breath.”
She scoffed. “I was intoxicated, remember?”
“You’re not now, and I think you want it just as badly as you did last night. You want me. You want this, but you’re too hard-headed or terrified to admit it.”
“You’re insane.”
“Am I?”
The chemistry is intense and the sexy time is steaming as Zael and Brynne give in to their passion for each other, but more than just sex, Zael is determined to make Brynne his and I love his no-nonsense approach with her as he pushes his way into her life, forcing her to confront her feelings.
“Wanting you this way is the last thing I should be doing, Brynne. But I’m not going to stand here and lie to you by pretending there’s nothing between us.” He caught her face in his palms. “I’m not going to stand here and let you lie about that either.”
But just when she starts to let him in and strong feelings begin to develop, they find themselves in a terrifying situation as their mission brings them to the secret Atlantean community, and right into the path of a new and unexpected danger.
This was a really great read. It sucked me in from the beginning and the mix of action, intrigue and the beautifully heartfelt romance kept me hooked all the way through. I loved Zael and Brynne as characters, and I loved the chance to catch up with pretty much all of the main players from previous books. The overarching storyline continues to build in intensity and complexity, and I’m really excited to see where the series goes from here.
I loved it – 4 stars.
December 18, 2018
'Mr Darcy' meets 'Thor'. That's the only way I can describe Zael. He is gentle, polite, with excellent manners, full of respect and it's like he has jumped out from an older era. But he is also fierce, protective, clearheaded, a man who knows what he wants and who can see through facades. A man of honour. In all previous books, the male characters (and in all fairness the females as well) were acting hot and cold, wanting and not wanting, torn between duty, past and lust and musts and don'ts. Zael knows exactly what he wants and what he feels and he pursuits it in a beautiful way. He is wicked and funny and courageous and hot as hell. Like a modern Adonis who hasn't let his millenia old life to shape him in the brutal way others usually are, but in a way that he chose himself and who in the face of something new, eniticing and perhaps life changing, is not afraid to embrace a different life. Apparently I really liked him as a character and I am hoping to see more men like him and not the usual brooding-bad boy-I wanna have sex with you, but no strings attached- male characters that I tend to find in books. Yes, it takes love and more specifically the love of a genuine partner to change ones life, but if one doesn't pursuit and embrace such happening, then nothing will change.
Brynne has had a very dark and disturbing past and Zael is everything she isn't. He helps her and guides her in a gentle way towards his light. The story around them is fast paced and the general plot progresses and escalates and eventualy leading to more key-happenings and key-persons that I am hoping will finally lead to the conclusion of the whole series. No matter how much I am enjoying it, it is beginning to tire and I don't want the magic to be spoiled. Like a fine bottle of wine, you need to know when the time is right to open the bottle right at the peak of its maturation and evolution before it begins to spoil.
Brynne has had a very dark and disturbing past and Zael is everything she isn't. He helps her and guides her in a gentle way towards his light. The story around them is fast paced and the general plot progresses and escalates and eventualy leading to more key-happenings and key-persons that I am hoping will finally lead to the conclusion of the whole series. No matter how much I am enjoying it, it is beginning to tire and I don't want the magic to be spoiled. Like a fine bottle of wine, you need to know when the time is right to open the bottle right at the peak of its maturation and evolution before it begins to spoil.
April 24, 2017
3.5
Investigator for the FIMUS, the organization of mix police for humans and vampires, Brynne goes to a bar, for a drink and a meanless fuck, a thing she never do usually, to try to forget she lost her job for helping Lucan and the Order in a clandestine mission. That's when she see Zael, the Atlantean warrior with the unreal beauty and with whom she likes to bicker but who destabilize her because he see right through her.
Brynne is a lonely woman. Difficult to approach, she keep a secret about her origins who stop her from building relationship with others. But Zael is determined to make her acknowledge and admit the attraction between them. He's certainly a patient and persevering man. No matter how hard she try to keep her distance and push him away, he never give up.
On the action side, the terrorist organization Opus Nostrum is still trying to create chaos with their attacks and the new enemy of the Order, the exiled Queen of the Atlantean is still a threat and prepare something.
Lara Adrian gave a second wind to this series with the next generation and the Atlantean plot. I like the international and multi-ethnic side. This book is not one of my favorite just because I never really connected with Brynne or Zael and their troubles. It's just a question of personal taste and nothing else. My favorite scene of the book is when Gideon give Zael a pat on the back and say it's happen to the best of them, when talking about falling in love.
I look forward to read Aric and Rafe stories.
Investigator for the FIMUS, the organization of mix police for humans and vampires, Brynne goes to a bar, for a drink and a meanless fuck, a thing she never do usually, to try to forget she lost her job for helping Lucan and the Order in a clandestine mission. That's when she see Zael, the Atlantean warrior with the unreal beauty and with whom she likes to bicker but who destabilize her because he see right through her.
Brynne is a lonely woman. Difficult to approach, she keep a secret about her origins who stop her from building relationship with others. But Zael is determined to make her acknowledge and admit the attraction between them. He's certainly a patient and persevering man. No matter how hard she try to keep her distance and push him away, he never give up.
On the action side, the terrorist organization Opus Nostrum is still trying to create chaos with their attacks and the new enemy of the Order, the exiled Queen of the Atlantean is still a threat and prepare something.
Lara Adrian gave a second wind to this series with the next generation and the Atlantean plot. I like the international and multi-ethnic side. This book is not one of my favorite just because I never really connected with Brynne or Zael and their troubles. It's just a question of personal taste and nothing else. My favorite scene of the book is when Gideon give Zael a pat on the back and say it's happen to the best of them, when talking about falling in love.
I look forward to read Aric and Rafe stories.
August 6, 2020
Here we meet up with characters from other books. We also learn a lot more about the Atlantean people. Our hero is from Atlanta but has the choice to travel back and forth. He has been in the world for hundreds if not thousands of years. Move up to present day. Our heroine is one of the few women born with the Breed abilities and is a daywalker. She is also a warrior who has been through a hellish life to get to where she is and she has no intention of finding her soul mate. These are the kind of girls Fate laughs at the hardest.
A great romance with lots of action like all the books in this series. But, once again I caution you to read the books in order for maximum enjoyment.
A great romance with lots of action like all the books in this series. But, once again I caution you to read the books in order for maximum enjoyment.
October 17, 2016
There aren't many authors who can keep a series fresh and exciting for 14 books (and 6 novellas!) but Lara Adrian is one of them and I'm loving the Midnight Breed series more than ever. The series is constantly evolving and the world building has expanded so much in the last few books since the human population have been made aware of the Breed's existence. They aren't the only ancient race though and it looks like the queen of the Atlanteans is also planning on making a comeback so things are about to get even more interesting.
Zael is a warrior who left the Atlantean realm centuries ago, he knows his queen has started to lose herself to madness and he has worked hard to help the colony of escaped Atlanteans remain hidden from the queen's guard as well as from the Breed and humanity. For centuries the Atlanteans fought the Ancient beings that were the forefathers of the Breed but Zael has seen first hand that members of the Order are very different from the beings who sired them and he's become friends with several of the Order's warriors. Opus Nostrum have increased their terrorist activities and are trying to cause chaos between the Breed and humanity but the Order can't afford to be too distracted because the Atlantean queen is also making threats so they're facing enemies on all sides. They are in desperate need of allies and they have asked Zael to step in and try to build ties with the colony of escaped Atlanteans.
Brynne was created in a madman's lab and spent her childhood being experimented on and tortured. She has never opened up to anyone about the ordeal she suffered or the long term effects that they had on her. She only recently discovered her half-sister Tavia and was welcomed by the whole Order but she doesn't really know how to be part of a family and always holds herself at a distance. She is just too afraid to let anyone close to her because she's terrified they'll discover her darkest secret and no matter how attracted she is to Zael she knows there can be no future for them. Zael isn't one to be put off so easily though, he sees through Brynn's prickly exterior and wants nothing more than to get to know the woman hidden deep inside. There is no denying the sparks that are flying between them but Zael is going to have to work hard to convince Brynn they have something worth fighting for.
I absolutely loved these two, they have so much going against them from the start but Zael is determined not to give up and it's not hard to understand why Brynn finds him so hard to resist. Her whole world has been turned upside down thanks to Opus Nostrum but she wants to do something meaningful so she agrees to help Zael liaise with the colony on behalf of the Order. I've been wanting to know more about the hidden Atlanteans ever since we first met Zael in the previous book and this is the first chance we've had to get a proper look at them. We're introduced to some interesting new characters and I think we've only just touched the surface of the group's abilities so they're definitely going to bring a lot to the series over the next few books. Along with the fabulous romance we get a chance to catch up with some of our favourite original characters from the series and I'll never have enough cameo appearances from people like Lucan, Gabrielle, Gideon and the others. I love this world that Lara Adrian has created and I can't wait to see where she takes the story next.
Zael is a warrior who left the Atlantean realm centuries ago, he knows his queen has started to lose herself to madness and he has worked hard to help the colony of escaped Atlanteans remain hidden from the queen's guard as well as from the Breed and humanity. For centuries the Atlanteans fought the Ancient beings that were the forefathers of the Breed but Zael has seen first hand that members of the Order are very different from the beings who sired them and he's become friends with several of the Order's warriors. Opus Nostrum have increased their terrorist activities and are trying to cause chaos between the Breed and humanity but the Order can't afford to be too distracted because the Atlantean queen is also making threats so they're facing enemies on all sides. They are in desperate need of allies and they have asked Zael to step in and try to build ties with the colony of escaped Atlanteans.
Brynne was created in a madman's lab and spent her childhood being experimented on and tortured. She has never opened up to anyone about the ordeal she suffered or the long term effects that they had on her. She only recently discovered her half-sister Tavia and was welcomed by the whole Order but she doesn't really know how to be part of a family and always holds herself at a distance. She is just too afraid to let anyone close to her because she's terrified they'll discover her darkest secret and no matter how attracted she is to Zael she knows there can be no future for them. Zael isn't one to be put off so easily though, he sees through Brynn's prickly exterior and wants nothing more than to get to know the woman hidden deep inside. There is no denying the sparks that are flying between them but Zael is going to have to work hard to convince Brynn they have something worth fighting for.
I absolutely loved these two, they have so much going against them from the start but Zael is determined not to give up and it's not hard to understand why Brynn finds him so hard to resist. Her whole world has been turned upside down thanks to Opus Nostrum but she wants to do something meaningful so she agrees to help Zael liaise with the colony on behalf of the Order. I've been wanting to know more about the hidden Atlanteans ever since we first met Zael in the previous book and this is the first chance we've had to get a proper look at them. We're introduced to some interesting new characters and I think we've only just touched the surface of the group's abilities so they're definitely going to bring a lot to the series over the next few books. Along with the fabulous romance we get a chance to catch up with some of our favourite original characters from the series and I'll never have enough cameo appearances from people like Lucan, Gabrielle, Gideon and the others. I love this world that Lara Adrian has created and I can't wait to see where she takes the story next.
October 24, 2016
Picking up immediately after the conclusion of Bound to Darkness, Defy the Dawn shares the story of Brynne, a day-walking, Breed female who was created by a madman, and Zael, an Atlantean defector who has formed a loose alliance with the Order. After losing her job for secretly helping the Order (last book), Brynne agrees to work with the Order as they go after Opus Nostrum, the terrorist group out to cause mayhem and chaos all over the globe. Meanwhile, Zael can no longer contain his desire for and admiration of Brynne, but his womanize past may keep Brynne at a distance.
Defy the Dawn is the first book that features a romance between two characters with relatively no ties to the original Breeds or the offspring of the Order. I state this upfront because I believe this is part of the reason why I had a difficult time connecting to the romance and story in general. While I found the book exciting and action-packed, I struggled to stay focused on the storyline and had little investment in the outcome. And frankly, there was little progression in the overall plot involving Opus Nostrum or the fight with the Atlantean Queen.
Brynne and Zael shared a passionate romance, filled with that desperate need to be with one another all the time. Yet, Brynne has a secret which keeps her at a distance from everyone. Even once Zael finds out the her hidden horror (and accepts her regardless), Brynne continues to use it as a reason to stay apart. Their romance was most enjoyable during the scenes when the pair were together, sharing and enjoying their feelings, but I got frustrated when they would pull apart and say things were a mistake.
I also struggled with the ending of the story, which felt too easy. You know those times when you threaten to punish your child, but then you don’t follow through? It felt like that. Additionally, two new characters were briefly introduced in the last few chapters of the book, and I just have a gut feeling that it was a set up for the next romance. I could be wrong, but it added to the disconnect - thinking that the next book may be about two characters about whom I know nothing.
Overall, Defy the Dawn is a solid story and sexy romance. There is lots of action and passion. It's just... I have fallen out of interest with this series (and PNR in general). I can't connect with the overall story any longer, and I am struggling to connect to these new characters when my old favorites are still around.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but had a few small issues
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Defy the Dawn is the first book that features a romance between two characters with relatively no ties to the original Breeds or the offspring of the Order. I state this upfront because I believe this is part of the reason why I had a difficult time connecting to the romance and story in general. While I found the book exciting and action-packed, I struggled to stay focused on the storyline and had little investment in the outcome. And frankly, there was little progression in the overall plot involving Opus Nostrum or the fight with the Atlantean Queen.
Brynne and Zael shared a passionate romance, filled with that desperate need to be with one another all the time. Yet, Brynne has a secret which keeps her at a distance from everyone. Even once Zael finds out the her hidden horror (and accepts her regardless), Brynne continues to use it as a reason to stay apart. Their romance was most enjoyable during the scenes when the pair were together, sharing and enjoying their feelings, but I got frustrated when they would pull apart and say things were a mistake.
I also struggled with the ending of the story, which felt too easy. You know those times when you threaten to punish your child, but then you don’t follow through? It felt like that. Additionally, two new characters were briefly introduced in the last few chapters of the book, and I just have a gut feeling that it was a set up for the next romance. I could be wrong, but it added to the disconnect - thinking that the next book may be about two characters about whom I know nothing.
Overall, Defy the Dawn is a solid story and sexy romance. There is lots of action and passion. It's just... I have fallen out of interest with this series (and PNR in general). I can't connect with the overall story any longer, and I am struggling to connect to these new characters when my old favorites are still around.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but had a few small issues
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
September 5, 2016
The highly anticipated fourteenth book in the Midnight Breed series is finally here! DEFY THE DAWN was pushed back but now that I have read it, I can say that it was definitely worth the wait.
DEFY THE DAWN reminds me a lot of what I loved about the first few books in the series. There’s great action and suspense and there’s also a lot of complex worldbuilding and politics in play, but at the heart of it all, these books are epic romances.
I absolutely fell in love with the hero of this book. Zeal reminds me of the original heroes of this series. There’s just something about him that oozes sex appeal and Adrian only amplifies that with each scorching scene in this book. He’s the epitome of hotness, and I think he very well knows that, but what’s unique is that he’s also not what he seems. There’s a part of him that remains mysterious and for me, that only added to his allure.
The heroine was also one of my favorite things about this book. Brynne has his tough girl attitude but yet again, she has her own set of vulnerabilities as well. Zeal tempts her like no other and I can’t blame her for falling for him. However, I also felt that she held back a little too much. Maybe it was because I was already head over heels in love with Zeal already that I was rooting for him, but I almost wished Brynne gave in a little bit sooner. That being said though, I understand why she acted the way she did. It was much more believable and benefited the story a little bit more.
While I liked the recent books in the series, DEFY THE DAWN reminded me so much of the earlier books that I wanted to reread them all over again after reading this. The presence of the Order is much more prevalent in this book and I think that helped in making the loyal readers of this series happy. There’s also a little less angst and more focus on the romance and politics of the world. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to see what will happen next!
*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Annie
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September 20, 2016
**Originally posted @ ReadingDiva's Blog **
REVIEW: Lara Adrian brings us back to the world of The Midnight Breed in Defy The Dawn. Humans now live with the knowledge of vampires and while things seem to be normal, terror seems to be pushing humans and vampires alike to their limit. With Opus Nostrum and now Selena the Queen of Atlantis causing havoc – Lucan and the Order have their hands full.
Lucan has to find a way to counter attack, but before he can do that he must make sure he forms alliances, something that assures him that when the time to fight Selena comes he will not have to fight those in exile as well. I really enjoyed this installment, it is clear that the Midnight Breed has a lot more to offer and the quality of this story just keeps getting better.
Brynne & Zael are such an exciting couple, they both have a past that have left deep scars. Brynne is a unique kind of breed. She is a gen one but something more, while she knows and understands her nature, she is also afraid of what she becomes when it is time to feed. Zael on the other hand, enjoyed Brynne’s uniqueness. Their attraction is feral and real, but while Zael knows it and understands it, Brynne fights it. I really enjoy how their relationship came to be, though it didn’t have much of a foundation we do know the attraction was mutual and equally strong.
Lara Adrian has once again manage to give us a greedy, sexy, sensual and action packed story that leave us craving for more. The Midnight Breed series has always being one of my favorite series, I have come love these characters and their story. Each one brings something unique and great to the story, from their abilities to their individual journey.
Defy The Dawn is everything I wanted and expected from Lara Adrian’s writing. Her ability to bring these characters to life never cease to amaze me. The story keeps developing and evolving into something amazing. I am looking forward to the next book and how these characters evolve, their stories are captivating and quite entertaining.
REVIEW: Lara Adrian brings us back to the world of The Midnight Breed in Defy The Dawn. Humans now live with the knowledge of vampires and while things seem to be normal, terror seems to be pushing humans and vampires alike to their limit. With Opus Nostrum and now Selena the Queen of Atlantis causing havoc – Lucan and the Order have their hands full.
Lucan has to find a way to counter attack, but before he can do that he must make sure he forms alliances, something that assures him that when the time to fight Selena comes he will not have to fight those in exile as well. I really enjoyed this installment, it is clear that the Midnight Breed has a lot more to offer and the quality of this story just keeps getting better.
Brynne & Zael are such an exciting couple, they both have a past that have left deep scars. Brynne is a unique kind of breed. She is a gen one but something more, while she knows and understands her nature, she is also afraid of what she becomes when it is time to feed. Zael on the other hand, enjoyed Brynne’s uniqueness. Their attraction is feral and real, but while Zael knows it and understands it, Brynne fights it. I really enjoy how their relationship came to be, though it didn’t have much of a foundation we do know the attraction was mutual and equally strong.
Lara Adrian has once again manage to give us a greedy, sexy, sensual and action packed story that leave us craving for more. The Midnight Breed series has always being one of my favorite series, I have come love these characters and their story. Each one brings something unique and great to the story, from their abilities to their individual journey.
Defy The Dawn is everything I wanted and expected from Lara Adrian’s writing. Her ability to bring these characters to life never cease to amaze me. The story keeps developing and evolving into something amazing. I am looking forward to the next book and how these characters evolve, their stories are captivating and quite entertaining.
September 1, 2016
This is a series that has strayed so far from its origins... I think the readers would have been better served if it had been broken into three series.
This story is about the romance of immortal Atlantean Ekizael and London-based JUSTIS agent Brynne Kirkland, a female Breed creation of the evil Dragos' labs and half-sister to Tavia. It occurs at least 25+ years after the beginning of the series.
It was a good read, but the pulse-pounding rawness of the first few books has pretty much been gone from this series for a while.
The protagonists in this book are the evil, crazed Atlantean queen, Selene, and the violent Soros-like shadowy group, Opus Nostrum, that is the entity creating the all of the violence in this story.
I liked the romance, but the Breed has morphed into 'The Order' and seem so emasculated in comparison to what they were like in the beginning of the series. They are reactive, not pro-active. They have been victims of the Opus Nostrum for several books now, and I get bored when the 'tough guys' never seem to be getting anywhere. They still don't know much about this organization or who is in charge. I know that will eventually come out, but how much is it going to cost me to be strung along in many books to find out? So, I liked the couple in this book (who are the least important aspect of the series, imho), but the rest of it has me really disappointed. In my experience with really long series like this one, this happens almost every time and I just stop reading them in disgust.
This story is about the romance of immortal Atlantean Ekizael and London-based JUSTIS agent Brynne Kirkland, a female Breed creation of the evil Dragos' labs and half-sister to Tavia. It occurs at least 25+ years after the beginning of the series.
It was a good read, but the pulse-pounding rawness of the first few books has pretty much been gone from this series for a while.
The protagonists in this book are the evil, crazed Atlantean queen, Selene, and the violent Soros-like shadowy group, Opus Nostrum, that is the entity creating the all of the violence in this story.
I liked the romance, but the Breed has morphed into 'The Order' and seem so emasculated in comparison to what they were like in the beginning of the series. They are reactive, not pro-active. They have been victims of the Opus Nostrum for several books now, and I get bored when the 'tough guys' never seem to be getting anywhere. They still don't know much about this organization or who is in charge. I know that will eventually come out, but how much is it going to cost me to be strung along in many books to find out? So, I liked the couple in this book (who are the least important aspect of the series, imho), but the rest of it has me really disappointed. In my experience with really long series like this one, this happens almost every time and I just stop reading them in disgust.
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