Cursed: The Beasts of Summer

by Margo Bond Collins, Erin Hayes, Blaire Edens

8 tales of monsters lurking in the dark. 8 creatures stalking the hot summer nights. 8 beasts sliding through the shadows unseen. 8 new ways to be cursed. Shade T.K. Bradley All James has left in life is a small group of survivors, and his little sliver of shade. But there are worse things to fear than the scorching sunlight. In order to survive in this cruel world, James will have to live by two rules…. Hide from the light. Fear the night. Wings Over New York B. Brumley Fallen angel Woe is settling into her wing-free life, and her biggest worry is meeting her new in-laws. When an old enemy resurfaces, Father Jason and Prince Arún join forces to hunt the hunter, vowing to keep Woe safe. As she is once again drawn into the midst of a supernatural tug-of-war, a new player emerges, risking the warrior Woe loves. A Generation of Vipers Margo Bond Collins Capturing the killer who was stalking the shapeshifter community should have earned weresnake Lindi Parker and her new boyfriend, mongoose-shifter Kade Nevala, a vacation. Instead it earned them a basket of baby lamias and a whole heap of trouble. Someone in the shifter community doesn’t want those infants—or Lindi—to survive. Not knowing who or what they can trust, Kade and Lindi must use every skill they have to stop a killer—again. Carolina Crypto: Case of the Lizard Man Blaire Edens Anthropologist Lucy Whittemore is on a quest to track down a killer. Spencer Watson’s dad has disappeared and the mythical Lizard Man might be the culprit. Tracking the beast through a steamy South Carolina swamp, the two find themselves up close and personal with a reality far scarier than they ever imagined. Heart of Stone S. K. Gregory Cassidy Regan returns home after her father dies. She just wants to attend the funeral and put it behind her, but fate has other plans. Cassidy is next in line to protect a mysterious vault, and as she comes face to face with strange creatures and a world she never knew existed, Cassidy realizes she must accept her destiny or die. I’m Not Afraid of Wolves Erin Hayes After escaping an abusive marriage and leading a new mermaid troupe, Christine goes on a much-needed vacation with her sister Sara. Except she wasn’t told the real reason for the trip: Sara’s running away from werewolves. And they’ll stop at nothing to get their claws into Christine’s sister. To End the Rapture Lori Parker My name is Tyler. Yes, I’m a girl. And if you have a demon problem don’t call me, I’m retired. Tyler is done with demons. Until Kade walks into her life and tempts her back into her old ways. It’s like he’s a sin. Crossfire Emma Stark Born into an ancient Order of demon hunters, Ethan Bailey is no stranger to a lonely life full of danger and lies. Tired of the secrets and nights spent alone, Ethan grows resentful of the Order. Little does he know, though, his latest assignment will lead him to exactly what—and who—he’s looking for.

500 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2016

About the author

USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and New York Times bestselling author Margo Bond Collins is a former college English professor who, tired of explaining the difference between "hanged" and "hung," turned to writing romance novels instead. She now writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and science fiction romance. Sometimes her heroines kiss aliens, sometimes they kill monsters. But they always aim for the heart.

You can learn more about her at http://www.MargoBondCollins.ink and follow her on all the usual social media outlets:

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/margobon...

Website: http://www.MargoBondCollins.ink

Blog: http://www.MargoBondCollins.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MargoBondCollin @MargoBondCollin

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Reviews

[Lyn Mckenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really really enjoyed this series of novellas, an extremely good read!

T.K Bradley - Shade 4*
As with all my reviews, I am completely honest, I will admit that I did struggle with this story at the beginning, it took me a little while to get into this story but once I did I enjoyed this novella and the way it ended made me crave more of this story, to find out more detailed information about what has caused things to be the way that they are.
It was a good introduction to all the characters and what sort of people they are. I do have to say that this novella is very unique and I have never read anything even remotely close to it. I would definitely be interested in following this story up.

B Brumley - Wings Over New York - 5*
I really really enjoyed this book! I haven't read anything by this author before but I am really really glad that I have come across this author.
The book was extremely well written, the world that it is written in is very imaginative but felt so real at the same time.
I really enjoyed the characters in this book, especially Woe. She has a way about her that is so innocent but so knowledgeable at the same time. I really liked how all the characters interacted with each other, how supportive they are, just like a family!

Margo Bond Collins - A Generation of Vipers - 5*
OMG!!!! I loved this book, it was so unbelievably addictive, it is a serious page turner and I would love to read more!
I think the thing that I loved most about this book was the diversity of the were-animals, it was really unique to read about all the different variations.
The world in which this is set in is written so descriptively and imaginatively that it captures your attention from the first page to the last, I found myself gutted when it ended.
The characters are also so well written, although this is a novella, you really see into the characters lives, their pasts, their hopes and their dreams and hoes for the future. Lindi is such a brilliant character, especially as the book goes on. You see a glimpse of how hard her past has been but she still wants the best of herself and the people she cares about, she is such a protective and nurturing person.
This is the ultimate must read, I cant wait to read more of this authors work!!!

Blaire Edens - Carolina Crypto : Book one - 5*
I didn't know what I would think of this book but I absolutely loved it! I have always been a huge fan of cryptozoology and to read it in a novel was brilliant!!
I loved the way this was written, it comes across as so honest and open making it feel so real. Blaire Edens has created a world in which the characters and story are very addictive, making it a serious page turner, leaving a craving for more. I am now dying to read more of her work!
Lucy was a brilliant character! She was the strong female character that I love so much. She follows what she believes no matter the outcome. Its no surprise that spencer falls for her so completely, he complements her personality so well with his determination and love for life.
This story is filled with action and adventure, intrigue and mystery, also with an aspect of being a thriller!
Brilliant brilliant story, a definite must read!!!

S K Gregory - Heart of Stone - 5*
I really loved this book, i have never read any of this authors work before but after reading this i am definitely on the lookout for more of this authors work. I really liked the pace that the story went, it flowed really well, making it a highly enjoyable story.
Cassidy is an extremely enjoyable character to read, i like how she is strong and stubborn to do what she belivies is right. From the beginning to the end of this book you see her change and evolve into who she really is. I really want to read more into this world, to see where it goes.
This is a really really well written book and i enjoyed every moment of it!!!

Erin Hayes - I'm not Afraid of Wolves - 5*
Oh Erin Hayes, you are seriously awesome at what you do. I loved this book so much! Its such a compelling and obsessive read making it a major page turner!
This story has so many twists and turns, you just don't know whats going to happen next and i think that's what made this story such a compelling read. It was obvious while reading this that so much thought and emotion was put into each character and the world in which this story creates.
Christine...She is awesome!!! I loved her spunk and her inner fire, she has a temper on her when those she cares for are in danger or feeling threatened. She is a complex woman with her own inner demons relating to her past, keeping her secrets close.
Colton...You will fall in love with him! I would say that he is my favourite character in this book. He is a strong Alpha male, with all the stubbornness and protective instincts. He is very caring and thoughtful but will put his foot down with unruly wolves.
Seriously, you NEED to go and get yourself a copy of this amazing book, there are no dull moments in this book and you will feel compelled to turn page after page, just to find out what happens net. Awesome!!!

Lori Parker - To End the Rapture - 5*
Wow! What a unique book! I really loved this story. It is a very compelling read, there is a need to keep turning the pages to find out what is going to happen next..
The story is filled with action packed twists and turns. I thoroughly enjoyed the world that this was written in, it feels very real and i liked the idea of this story as it is something different. I will definitely be following this authors work after reading this book.
I loved Tyler's character. As much as she has been beatedn down by her past and is filled with pain and loss she still holds hope within her, she is still grieving but is putting her inner strength and wisdom to good use.
There is also something about Kade that i loved reading about. He is a mystery, keeping everything to himself, never letting anyone see who he really is.
I really loved this compelling, addictive read! A definite must read!!

Emma Stark - Crossfire - 5*
This is not an author that i had heard of but due to reading this novella, i definitely want to read more.
I really really enjoyed reading this book, the way that it is written hooks you from the first page, you find yourself compulsively turning the pages to find out what happens next. I loved the storyline, there is so much intrigue and mystery, the way it is written shows you a glimpse of a world so different to ours it just sparks your imagination making you want to know more.
You can tell that Ethan is a deep and complex character that has so much depth to his character. I really enjoyed reading about him. Even though he is jaded about the order, he still does what he believes is right!
I am a definite fan of this book and this author after reading this. A must read!!

[Shasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sorry, I gave up.

While the first story was gripping, I wasn't expecting the sadness and horror. I read more reviews then and found out that I wouldn't enjoy the rest.

I prefer hope at least at the end of a story, but preferably happy endings.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this from one of the authors in exchange in for an honest review.

Overall this was a unique set of books. I enjoyed several of the stories and some were just too dark and hopeless for me. It’s still a good collection for the price.

Shade - T.K. Bradley
A quick read. Really dark and sad take on a dystopian society with a paranormal twist. That’s really all I can say about this one.

Wings over New York – B. Brumley
The story is good, but really sad. It draws the reader in and you want to know what will happen next.

A Generation of Vipers – Margo Bond Collins
I love the interaction in between Kade and Lindi. They are two people who technically shouldn’t work, but do. This short story does a semi decent job of explaining the back story of the book, but those who haven’t read it may be a little lost and disconnected. I love the continuation though and hope the author does another book for the couple.

Carolina Crypto – Blaire Edens
I liked this story. It put me in mind of the show that was on TV where the guy chases mythical creatures. It was fun and had its drama moments. This would be a great series to continue reading.

Heart of Stone – S.K. Gregory
Definitely a YA story. It had some good twists and I enjoyed the unique plot. It had a sweet side to it. It was a nice read.

I’m Not Afraid of Wolves – Erin Hayes
The character of Christine is simply awesome. This is a great female lead she was strong, sassy and independent. There were some twists and it was a clean read. Overall, it was a good read.
To End the Rapture – Lori Parker
This story had a good plot and some good twists, but it doesn’t have that HEA that most look for in a romance story. Having said that it was still a good story.

Crossfire – Emma Stark
This was a quick read. It was just enough to whet the appetite for the series, but not give any plot details away.

[Christine Karmelreads2665 W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something for Everyone



Received this book for free for an honest review.

The collection does not contain a bad story. There is something for everyone stories containing vampires, fallen angels, the Fae, urban legends-Lizard Man, wolves, gargoyles just a little bit of any genre.

If you cannot find any story to enjoy I will be surprised.

For the followers of Margo Bond Collins story it picks up were Lindi and Kade's story from Under Her Skin left off. Looking forward to the next book

[Tera Comer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A excellent collection of books with each one of the authors giving a unique voice to each story. This is the perfect set to read if you like great writing that involves monsters and shifters.

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

*This review is only for Margo Bond Collins' story, A Generation of Vipers*

I haven't read the first book in this series, and the author said this could be read as a standalone, so I thought I'd go ahead and read this, which I suppose it could be read as a standalone, but I think I would have really benefitted from reading the first book because I didn't really feel a connection to the characters, or really a connection between the characters themselves. With that being said, I still loved the snake shifter aspect, and that there are a lot of different types of shifters that don't really get written about, such as a were-mongoose and a were-squirrel. I enjoyed the writing, and I liked the action parts. When Lindi is in snake form, I find it really cool that she kicks butt by using snake attributes. I wasn't really feeling the connection between Kade and Lindi, which I was hoping would come across more, but I found their scenes together lacking, and there is a scene where Lindi is in some trouble, and I just didn't feel like Kade felt strongly for Lindi; maybe if I would have read the first book, I would understand them together better. I did like both characters though, so maybe since the book was short, the connection between them didn't come across to me, and they do have a couple of cute moments; when she is in snake form with Kade, it is so cute! In this book, Lindi is dealing with the pregnant women from the first book, who were raped, so they would have snake shifter babies, and since the women have chosen not to keep the babies, Lindi is going to be sort of an adoptive mom to all these possible snake shifter babies, but someone is out to kill all the babies, so Lindi needs to find a way to protect the babies, and she also worries about being there for the babies. I'm not a huge fan of books that the focal point is babies, so I wasn't in love with that part of this story, but I still enjoyed the other aspects of this story, and I was entertained and interested the whole time reading this books, so I do look forward to reading the next book in the series to see how this series develops, and I'm also looking forward to reading the first book in the series, so I can learn more about Lindi because I enjoyed her as a character!

[Elissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who's read my reviews knows I am a huge fan of well-curated anthologies because of their potential scope and variety. With eight wonderful authors you are nearly guaranteed to find something to suit your fancy.

I am focusing here on "I'm Not Afraid of Wolves":

Curses can come in many forms and for Christine it started with her soldier husband coming home from war so badly damaged that her own life became hell. Now, based on the title, I'm sure you've figured out werewolves are involved (no spoilers) and if you are a fan of Ms. Hayes you will be expecting her usual deft dialogue and light touch and humor. Yes, it is all there but, surprise! This gets a bit darker than some of her other tales.

Note: There are three previous standalone but interwoven books in this series of which I'd recommend reading the first, "How to Be a Mermaid," as a general background: How to be a Mermaid (unnecessary for this plot but definitely enriching overall with regard to several of the side characters). Of course EACH of the series is delightful so you can continue to feed your sweet tooth when you are finished nibbling on this dainty morsel!

And, on to the next tale! (Watch this space!)

[J. Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cursed: The Beasts of Summer is a collection of short stories and novellas, all dealing with some type of shape-shifting creature. I would describe most of the stories as fantasy more than horror, although there are elements of both. Most also include a romantic angle.

The story I found the most effective was also the simplest: "Shade" by T.K. Bradley. After some kind of apocalypse (hinted at but not explicitly explained), civilization has fallen, and a small group of survivors fight to stay alive and defend themselves from the monsters that come out at night. Very taut, suspenseful writing.

I also really enjoyed Erin Hayes' "I'm Not Afraid of Wolves". A group of women vacationing at a cabin the woods are stalked by a pack of werewolves, but there's a lot more going on than it seems. This one has some nicely-written action, and a couple of clever plot twists that genuinely caught me by surprise.

"To End the Rapture" by Lori Parker treads some familiar territory -- it very much reads like a pastiche of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", right down to the handsome demon "cursed" with a soul. But I did find myself getting caught up in the characters and their dilemmas, so I can't complain too much. And the sex is way hotter than anything you'd ever get to see on network tv. ;-)

All of the stories are decently-written, and have interesting ideas ("A Generation of Vipers" by Margo Bond Collins, for instance, deals with politics and prejudices among different species of were-animals). Some of them felt more like introductions or excerpts from longer works, rather than satisfying stand-alone stories. As with any anthology, it's a bit of a mixed bag, but the writing is generally solid, and if you're at all interested in this type of theme, you're bound to find something that appeals to you.

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book set includes 8 tales of monsters, creatures, and beasts. Each short story has its own unique writing style and has a way of pulling you in. Shade is a unique story with a unique writing style. The story is very well written and developed. This story is intriguing. Over New York was very well written with no plot holes. The storyline and characters are fascinating. I love this one. Generation of Vipers is a continuation of Under Her Skin. You will definitely want to read Under Her Skin too. This writing style is descriptive and unique. The storyline flows through perfectly from the first book to this one. The character's are realistic and likeable. I love this book. So if you have not read Under Her Skin make sure you grab it. Carolina Crypto: Case of the Lizard Man. This is a unique story with a unique writing style. This book is very well written with no plot holes. Heart of Stone is very well written and developed. The plot and characters will keep you captivated. I love this one. I'm not afraid of wolves. This is a unique story with a unique writing style. The story is well written with no plot holes. Rapture. Is very well written with a unique writing style. The storyline flows through perfectly. The character's are realistic and interesting. I love this one. Crossfire is a unique story with a unique writing style. The character's are well developed. You will find twist and turns in the story. I highly recommend reading this set of books as you will not be disappointed. I was given a free copy in exchange for a honest review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the most amazing collection! There's a few I still need to read and will update as I do. I would give all of them a 5 Star! My most favorite was by Blaire Edens, Carolina Crypto. I actually had a book hang over. I had to immediately start stalking the author on FB and Amazon. (I'm not literally stalking, like bad creepy stalking) lol. But she does live about 2 hours from me. I just loved this story and it has some scary parts. I wouldn't have stayed in that swamp after dark for no money in the world! The characters were so well developed. I felt like I knew them and even after the story is over, I found I was wondering what they were up to. The whole world was so wonderful. I hope so much that she is writing another in the series. I will preorder as soon as I can.

[Vicki Kline-saunier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freaking loved it!!