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Midnight #2
Midnight Sins
Cara Maloan doesn’t look like a monster. In fact, the gorgeous blond nightclub singer possesses heavenly attributes that make Atlanta detective Todd Brooks sure there’s a higher power somewhere. But a twisted killer is leaving a trail of bodies in seedy hotel rooms across town. The male victims show no wounds–it’s as if the life was simply drained from them. And right now, mysterious Cara is Todd’s only suspect.
Cara knows it’s foolish to be so drawn to a man who thinks she’s a murderer. She also knows Detective Brooks would find the truth even harder to swallow. Cara is one of the Other, a race of powerful, paranormal creatures who live among humans. Cara’s particular abilities make men putty in her hands–all except this rugged, sexy-as-hell detective. But now someone, or something, has singled Cara out for serious payback…
As uneasy trust gives way to mind-blowing desire, Cara and Todd will go head-to-head with a killer whose mission is deeply personal, and who’s determined to serve up revenge that’s hotter than hellfire, and just as deadly…
Cara knows it’s foolish to be so drawn to a man who thinks she’s a murderer. She also knows Detective Brooks would find the truth even harder to swallow. Cara is one of the Other, a race of powerful, paranormal creatures who live among humans. Cara’s particular abilities make men putty in her hands–all except this rugged, sexy-as-hell detective. But now someone, or something, has singled Cara out for serious payback…
As uneasy trust gives way to mind-blowing desire, Cara and Todd will go head-to-head with a killer whose mission is deeply personal, and who’s determined to serve up revenge that’s hotter than hellfire, and just as deadly…
301 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2008
43 people are currently reading
1771 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
309 books6,806 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 18, 2021
Кара Малоун и Тод Брукс
Не беше нищо особено. Бях предубедена, заради факта, че главната е сокуба, и като цяло не успях да го "преживея" до края, но обичам романи с крими елемент, затова 3*** от мен.
Не беше нищо особено. Бях предубедена, заради факта, че главната е сокуба, и като цяло не успях да го "преживея" до края, но обичам романи с крими елемент, затова 3*** от мен.
January 14, 2017
1.5
utterly ridiculous...
utterly ridiculous...
July 20, 2009
Looking for sex? Lots of hot, M/F paranormal sex? Check out "Midnight Sins" by Cynthia Eden and that's what you'll fin. You'll also find a pretty nice plot with suspense and action too. I think this is the second book in her erotic paranormal series, but you certainly don't need to have read the first as I haven't...yet.
Cara is a succubus - that's a female sex demon to be precise. She NEEDS sex energy to live much like vampires need blood, but she's so very tired of only taking so she currently works in an Other night club in Atlanta, feeding from the humans 'playing' there as she sings. Then a series of murders take place that put Cara in the spotlight. And as soon as she lays eyes on handsome Detective Todd Brooks, Cara is hard-pressed to stick to her 'no-sex' vow.
Todd can't believe how attracted he is...to a possible serial killer no less. As soon as Cara's cleared of the crimes, he hotfoots it to the club in an effort to mitigate the hardline he took when Cara was a suspect. But this killer keeps trying to throw suspicion on Cara, and when Todd discovers the killer is a sex demon, will he still believe in her innocence?
Yes, this plot's been done before, but never in quite this way. There's a selection of possible suspects, a red herring or two, and a veritable smorgasbord of sex too. I enjoyed it and now I've got to go look in my stacks of 'to be read' books to see if I can find more by this author in this world!
Cara is a succubus - that's a female sex demon to be precise. She NEEDS sex energy to live much like vampires need blood, but she's so very tired of only taking so she currently works in an Other night club in Atlanta, feeding from the humans 'playing' there as she sings. Then a series of murders take place that put Cara in the spotlight. And as soon as she lays eyes on handsome Detective Todd Brooks, Cara is hard-pressed to stick to her 'no-sex' vow.
Todd can't believe how attracted he is...to a possible serial killer no less. As soon as Cara's cleared of the crimes, he hotfoots it to the club in an effort to mitigate the hardline he took when Cara was a suspect. But this killer keeps trying to throw suspicion on Cara, and when Todd discovers the killer is a sex demon, will he still believe in her innocence?
Yes, this plot's been done before, but never in quite this way. There's a selection of possible suspects, a red herring or two, and a veritable smorgasbord of sex too. I enjoyed it and now I've got to go look in my stacks of 'to be read' books to see if I can find more by this author in this world!
September 9, 2013
What can I say? I enjoy very, very much this series! :D
It's fun, it's witty, it's sexy! What there is not to like?! *wink*
Here we have a role reversal: Cara, the heroine, is the Other and Todd is the Human.
Cara is a succubus, a sex demon. But she's not happy at all with her nature. She need sexual energy to survive, but loathes meaningless sex with occasional men. She wants to be loved for her sould, not for her beauty or her sexual lure.
Todd is Colin's (the hero of Hotter after Midnight) partner detective. He has strong suspitions about Other's existance. But both colin and his Chief are keeping the truth from him.
Obviously, as soon as he meets Cara, he's attracted to her, but she's his main suspect from a series of murders.
As the story goes, Cara and Todd end together, Todd discoveres her nature, but at that point he doesn't care because he's fallen deeply in love with her.
A great story! Loved the way Cara is fighting for what she wants. Loved the way Todd wants to protect her and doesn't mind that she's a succubus.
It's fun, it's witty, it's sexy! What there is not to like?! *wink*
Here we have a role reversal: Cara, the heroine, is the Other and Todd is the Human.
Cara is a succubus, a sex demon. But she's not happy at all with her nature. She need sexual energy to survive, but loathes meaningless sex with occasional men. She wants to be loved for her sould, not for her beauty or her sexual lure.
Todd is Colin's (the hero of Hotter after Midnight) partner detective. He has strong suspitions about Other's existance. But both colin and his Chief are keeping the truth from him.
Obviously, as soon as he meets Cara, he's attracted to her, but she's his main suspect from a series of murders.
As the story goes, Cara and Todd end together, Todd discoveres her nature, but at that point he doesn't care because he's fallen deeply in love with her.
A great story! Loved the way Cara is fighting for what she wants. Loved the way Todd wants to protect her and doesn't mind that she's a succubus.
May 4, 2020
Cara is being set up for a string of murders she definitely didn't commit.
Todd's gut is telling him the beautiful woman can't possibly be a murderer, but he knows that anyone can kill if they're pushed hard enough.
With every step they take towards proving Cara's innocence, the take several back when new evidence pops up.
But what will the very human detective think once he realizes Cara is a succubus?
I really love Cynthia Eden's PNR. She always has such intricate plots and well-developed characters. This was a re-read and I loved it more the second time around.
Todd's gut is telling him the beautiful woman can't possibly be a murderer, but he knows that anyone can kill if they're pushed hard enough.
With every step they take towards proving Cara's innocence, the take several back when new evidence pops up.
But what will the very human detective think once he realizes Cara is a succubus?
I really love Cynthia Eden's PNR. She always has such intricate plots and well-developed characters. This was a re-read and I loved it more the second time around.
December 19, 2008
I have to say, after reading the first in this series. I wasn't expecting to like Midnight Sins so much, but this book was different for me for a few reasons:
a] there seemed to be much more focus on the starring couple in the story and their romance,
b] that romance was leaping off the page, and
c] the hero in this case, Todd Brooks, was a very strong, passionate character who never leaves us in doubt that he cares for the heroine (a departure from many novels today). I think the author intended the hero in the first book to be a passionate character as well (he is a shifter after all), but I actually felt more convinced here with the hero's very alpha (delicious) personality.
I also liked Cara, who's a strong woman without being stubborn or brick-stupid. When someone wounds her, she's the kind to get up, shake it off, and hunt that mofo down and do it without getting caught. She's as powerful as I would expect a succubus to be, and she's not shy about using her powers. I also really liked the secondary romance plot in the novel, and I liked learning more about the all the other characters. I'm looking forward to reading Niol's book next, and here's hoping that one's as, hm, spicy as this one, LOL. ;)
a] there seemed to be much more focus on the starring couple in the story and their romance,
b] that romance was leaping off the page, and
c] the hero in this case, Todd Brooks, was a very strong, passionate character who never leaves us in doubt that he cares for the heroine (a departure from many novels today). I think the author intended the hero in the first book to be a passionate character as well (he is a shifter after all), but I actually felt more convinced here with the hero's very alpha (delicious) personality.
I also liked Cara, who's a strong woman without being stubborn or brick-stupid. When someone wounds her, she's the kind to get up, shake it off, and hunt that mofo down and do it without getting caught. She's as powerful as I would expect a succubus to be, and she's not shy about using her powers. I also really liked the secondary romance plot in the novel, and I liked learning more about the all the other characters. I'm looking forward to reading Niol's book next, and here's hoping that one's as, hm, spicy as this one, LOL. ;)
March 23, 2015
Detective Todd Brooke, Colin's human partner that we first met in Hotter After Midnight, is about to come face to face with Atlanta's hidden world; where demons, witches and vampires exist, unbeknownst to mere humans. He's also about to meet his match in a woman with surprising secrets:
When male victims start to show up dead in seedy hotel rooms across town - with no other wounds than a handprint directly over their hearts - Todd and his partner are baffled. It's as if the life has simply been drained from them.
Police Detective Todd Brooks leads the investigation into the serial sex murders but has no clues until amidst the clothing of a victim is found the ID of Cara Firon. When she’s brought to the station for questioning, he discovers - to his shock – that the men trip over each other to accommodate her. Not that he can blame them, she is the most gorgeous blond he’s ever encountered. This alluring nightclub singer possesses heavenly attributes that makes him sure there's a higher power somewhere... Too bad Cara is his only suspect…
Well; Cara isn't exactly heavenly, in fact she's a demon, a Succubus, to be precise, and she possesses the ability to make men putty in her hands - all except this rugged, sexy-as-hell detective who seems to be immune to her pheromones, but still covets her. Too bad she's sworn off sex for good... And too bad someone, or something, has singled Cara out for serious payback...
Fortunately for us, their mutual attraction soon overcomes common sense and the warnings Cara and Todd receive from their respective communities. As one would expect from a book featuring a Succubus, their sex was smoking hot.
I really enjoyed the way that the author described Todd's gradual learning of a new side to the world in which he lives and the glimpses into the relationships and lives of some of the other characters. (Niol - *drool*) Likewise, I absolutely loved Cara and her interesting secrets. Even though she is a Sucubus, she has an innocence about her. She is powerful, unashamedly sexual, with a sassy mouth. She puts men in their place when they were being macho protective jerks who view women as helpless damsels in distress. It was nice to see the woman protect the alpha male for a change;-)
Midnight Sins was a truly enjoyable PNR mystery. However, I was sad to learn the identity of the killer. I rather liked this person and would have loved to read said person’s story later on. *Sigh* Oh well…
4.5 stars
When male victims start to show up dead in seedy hotel rooms across town - with no other wounds than a handprint directly over their hearts - Todd and his partner are baffled. It's as if the life has simply been drained from them.
Police Detective Todd Brooks leads the investigation into the serial sex murders but has no clues until amidst the clothing of a victim is found the ID of Cara Firon. When she’s brought to the station for questioning, he discovers - to his shock – that the men trip over each other to accommodate her. Not that he can blame them, she is the most gorgeous blond he’s ever encountered. This alluring nightclub singer possesses heavenly attributes that makes him sure there's a higher power somewhere... Too bad Cara is his only suspect…
Well; Cara isn't exactly heavenly, in fact she's a demon, a Succubus, to be precise, and she possesses the ability to make men putty in her hands - all except this rugged, sexy-as-hell detective who seems to be immune to her pheromones, but still covets her. Too bad she's sworn off sex for good... And too bad someone, or something, has singled Cara out for serious payback...
Fortunately for us, their mutual attraction soon overcomes common sense and the warnings Cara and Todd receive from their respective communities. As one would expect from a book featuring a Succubus, their sex was smoking hot.
I really enjoyed the way that the author described Todd's gradual learning of a new side to the world in which he lives and the glimpses into the relationships and lives of some of the other characters. (Niol - *drool*) Likewise, I absolutely loved Cara and her interesting secrets. Even though she is a Sucubus, she has an innocence about her. She is powerful, unashamedly sexual, with a sassy mouth. She puts men in their place when they were being macho protective jerks who view women as helpless damsels in distress. It was nice to see the woman protect the alpha male for a change;-)
Midnight Sins was a truly enjoyable PNR mystery. However, I was sad to learn the identity of the killer. I rather liked this person and would have loved to read said person’s story later on. *Sigh* Oh well…
4.5 stars
April 11, 2017
very typical theme and style of Ms. Cynthia Eden. If you already love the way she writes then you will never be disappointed with her book.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
December 19, 2014
Usually I love Cynthia Eden's books, but this one was boring. 2-2.5 stars. I really liked the first book in this series, so I'm hoping the third will be better than this one.
June 20, 2019
I really love Cynthia's paranormal romance! :) She writes sexy, hot, protective alpha men. 😍Where can I find my own hero? ❤️💜❤️🙂😘😉🥰
July 18, 2025
2017 = 3 stars
2022 = + 1 star for reread / review written
MCs:
Todd Brooks: Atlanta detective with hidden psychic abilities. Partner to Detective Colin Gyth (book 1 MMC ). Orphaned at a young age. Previously unaware of the Others, he learns about their world.
Cara Firon: A succubus who feeds on sexual energy, but unlike her kind, she feels empty afterward and dislikes the hunt. She desires genuine love but is often rejected once her nature is known. At the start, she’s sworn off sex, feeding instead through singing at the nightclub Paradise Found.
Plot:
A serial killer ties up men in hotel rooms, their cause of death unknown. A handprint on one victim’s chest suggests a succubus, making Cara the prime suspect. Todd is immediately drawn to her.
🤔 My Thoughts:
IMHO, book one was better. The author's melodramatic style is usually noticeable, but this one felt even more so—maybe I overlooked it before. 🤷♀️ The worst of it happened during sex scenes.
🙄 EXAMPLES:
▪️ Is was the way he said her name that got to her. Hunger. Lust. Tenderness.
▪️ The lust between them burned too bright for a slow courtship. She needed release. Pleasure. Him.
▪️ His mouth was back on hers before the door slammed shut behind them. Tasting. Devouring.
▪️ His fingers curled around her underwear. Gripped. Yanked.
▪️ His mouth opened wider and he began to suckle her. Strong. Hard.
It was nice to see the MCs from Book 1 involved again. The romantic subplot carried over from that book is wrapped up well, between Captain McNeal and Nathalia Smith, the medical examiner.
Mystery fans may be disappointed, but I was fine, preferring romance with a side of mystery.
🔍 The Mystery Solved: 🔎
The romance was okay, but it felt too 'insta' with lust turning quickly to love. I did like Todd’s protective and possessive nature. I skimmed the sex scenes, as I didn’t care for the way they were written—especially the use of the word cream. 🤢
The story managed to hold my interest, due to it being entertaining with a fair amount of action and suspense.
It's hard to believe that:
⑴ most humans remain unaware of the Others, despite Cara revealing herself often and humans going to Paradise Found to play.
⑵ humans vastly outnumber supernatural beings, with Niol claiming a third of the police are SBs, and various types of SBs seem to be everywhere.
👎 Book 3 was a DNF. I'm done reading melodramas with similar stories and characters.
2022 = + 1 star for reread / review written
MCs:
Todd Brooks: Atlanta detective with hidden psychic abilities. Partner to Detective Colin Gyth (book 1 MMC ). Orphaned at a young age. Previously unaware of the Others, he learns about their world.
Cara Firon: A succubus who feeds on sexual energy, but unlike her kind, she feels empty afterward and dislikes the hunt. She desires genuine love but is often rejected once her nature is known. At the start, she’s sworn off sex, feeding instead through singing at the nightclub Paradise Found.
Plot:
A serial killer ties up men in hotel rooms, their cause of death unknown. A handprint on one victim’s chest suggests a succubus, making Cara the prime suspect. Todd is immediately drawn to her.
🤔 My Thoughts:
IMHO, book one was better. The author's melodramatic style is usually noticeable, but this one felt even more so—maybe I overlooked it before. 🤷♀️ The worst of it happened during sex scenes.
🙄 EXAMPLES:
▪️ Is was the way he said her name that got to her. Hunger. Lust. Tenderness.
▪️ The lust between them burned too bright for a slow courtship. She needed release. Pleasure. Him.
▪️ His mouth was back on hers before the door slammed shut behind them. Tasting. Devouring.
▪️ His fingers curled around her underwear. Gripped. Yanked.
▪️ His mouth opened wider and he began to suckle her. Strong. Hard.
It was nice to see the MCs from Book 1 involved again. The romantic subplot carried over from that book is wrapped up well, between Captain McNeal and Nathalia Smith, the medical examiner.
Mystery fans may be disappointed, but I was fine, preferring romance with a side of mystery.
🔍 The Mystery Solved: 🔎
The romance was okay, but it felt too 'insta' with lust turning quickly to love. I did like Todd’s protective and possessive nature. I skimmed the sex scenes, as I didn’t care for the way they were written—especially the use of the word cream. 🤢
The story managed to hold my interest, due to it being entertaining with a fair amount of action and suspense.
It's hard to believe that:
⑴ most humans remain unaware of the Others, despite Cara revealing herself often and humans going to Paradise Found to play.
⑵ humans vastly outnumber supernatural beings, with Niol claiming a third of the police are SBs, and various types of SBs seem to be everywhere.
👎 Book 3 was a DNF. I'm done reading melodramas with similar stories and characters.
December 14, 2021
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
This was part of a challenge to read a set of three terrible sounding romance novels. This ended up being the second book I read as part of the challenge. It was one I grabbed as an after thought since I hadn’t read any romance novels about incubi/sucubi, just erotica.
While this story was not a new idea, the main woman was surprisingly detailed. She was more than just a hot body, she was in therapy over her issues of dealing with who she was. She was having issues dealing with the fact that her love could kill and that people often only wanted her until they found out she was a “monster”. This level of depth is not something I am used to finding in a romance novel. However, the male lead was not as in-depth. Instead he was a cardboard cut out hottie: rugged, muscular, and passionate. He almost blindly accepted that the woman he wanted could kill him and he got so wildly jealous of her being near other men that it was scary (what is it with romance novels and perpetuating the idea that jealousy is healthy and shows true love?).
This is a second novel in a series and it shows. Most romance novel series I have read don’t require reading the other books to understand, but this one mildly did. It continued the story of a few other couples as sub plots which was interesting to see and I am really interested in what happened between the other characters. Though I was less hoping that the Todd and Cara got together and more hoping to see more into the world that Eden had created around Cara. What was going on with the guy that owned the club for example? There was so much potential everywhere for spin off series.
The book itself did not hold my attention for very long and Eden’s sex scenes were less steamy than anticipated. I really expected more from a supernatural sex scene since one of the participants is a “sex demon” or at least is called one repeatedly. I am not impressed that the most badass character that is female in this book was one that had to flirt and seduce to survive. I am very disappointed in how women were treated and portrayed in this book.
This was part of a challenge to read a set of three terrible sounding romance novels. This ended up being the second book I read as part of the challenge. It was one I grabbed as an after thought since I hadn’t read any romance novels about incubi/sucubi, just erotica.
While this story was not a new idea, the main woman was surprisingly detailed. She was more than just a hot body, she was in therapy over her issues of dealing with who she was. She was having issues dealing with the fact that her love could kill and that people often only wanted her until they found out she was a “monster”. This level of depth is not something I am used to finding in a romance novel. However, the male lead was not as in-depth. Instead he was a cardboard cut out hottie: rugged, muscular, and passionate. He almost blindly accepted that the woman he wanted could kill him and he got so wildly jealous of her being near other men that it was scary (what is it with romance novels and perpetuating the idea that jealousy is healthy and shows true love?).
This is a second novel in a series and it shows. Most romance novel series I have read don’t require reading the other books to understand, but this one mildly did. It continued the story of a few other couples as sub plots which was interesting to see and I am really interested in what happened between the other characters. Though I was less hoping that the Todd and Cara got together and more hoping to see more into the world that Eden had created around Cara. What was going on with the guy that owned the club for example? There was so much potential everywhere for spin off series.
The book itself did not hold my attention for very long and Eden’s sex scenes were less steamy than anticipated. I really expected more from a supernatural sex scene since one of the participants is a “sex demon” or at least is called one repeatedly. I am not impressed that the most badass character that is female in this book was one that had to flirt and seduce to survive. I am very disappointed in how women were treated and portrayed in this book.
August 31, 2009
good series
January 12, 2011
~* 3.5 Stars *~
Detective Todd Brooks is sick of being in the dark on cases, sick of feeling like his partner...the partner he saw turn into a wolf in an agonizing cacophony of broken and reshaped bones and limbs, doesn't trust him. And he's still not sure how the heck that guy Niol tossed him across the room without seeming to lay a hand on him. He's haunted by what he's seen but he's struggling not to let it affect his work. So what if he's gotten a little testy from the burden? When a new murder case drops into his and his partner Colin's lap, evidence points hard towards the sexiest woman Todd's ever seen and he instantly wants her - bad. He should have guessed that's all is not what it seems, and as murdered men keep popping up, the suspect who every instinct inside Todd is screaming is innocent falls under closer scrutiny and Todd finds out she's got a few secrets of her own. Like the fact that she's a sex demon, for one, though Cara prefers the term succubus, and thanks to Todd no longer accepting being kept in the dark by his partner and Captain, he's already realized that the most likely perpetrator of the deaths of several of Atlanta's human male population is a succubus. Problem is, they're territorial, and Cara's the only one in town. Maybe he shouldn't have slept with her after all...
I truly enjoy Cynthia Eden's writing style and her ability to put together a rousing suspense novel ripe with fantastic paranormal aspects. I think she has a near adept-level ability to wend stunning sexuality, heat, and emotion into a conflagration that sets pages on fire. I love this world she's created for her Midnight trilogy, a world in which others such as demons, shifters, vampires, and witches work and play side by side with humanity with most humans being none the wiser. In the first book of the trilogy, Hotter After Midnight, I also thoroughly enjoyed the lead characters and their relationship, as well as the development of the mystery and suspense, and thought those two aspects worked well together.
Midnight Sins wasn't quite as effective in that last area, unfortunately. We first met the good detective in that first book, Hotter After Midnight, and to be honest, I didn't like him very much. Todd's a bit too quick to fire on that temper of his and he has a tendency to walk very loudly while carrying that big stick. He struck me as stubborn, close minded, opinionated, long on ego, and not so long on intelligence. Admittedly, that impression improved when he got his own book, and his character developed along nicer paths as soon as he got a look at Cara, the succubus with the heart of gold, a sex demon who's given up sex because it leaves her feeling empty inside.
To be honest, I thought the plot of Midnight Sins was a little stronger and more comprehensive than Hotter After Midnight, the danger more personal, and the motivations of the perpetrator more believable. The development and arc of the plot overall was good. I just had some difficulties warming up to Todd as a character, and I wasn't totally sold on the relationship between Todd and Cara. I did enjoy Todd eventually, and I think there was a lot of progress in his character from the previous book through to the end of this one. There were several scenes, one with Colin in particular, in which Todd's lack of prejudice and his ability to adapt quickly to a major paradigm shift became a very nice character trait.
That left, however, problems for me between him and Cara. Their relationship was sexy, it was sultry, it was hot, but it didn't have a whole lot of narrative surrounding its development (it was more like 'I see, I want, I have'), and it didn't offer much beyond superficial motivations for their hook up. Cara's smokin' hot (she's a succubus, so that sort of goes without saying) and Todd's drawn to her almost compulsively, and in Cara's case, she can't mind mojo Todd when he's awake and that appeals to her. It just didn't strike me as much of a solid foundation for a long lasting relationship. Obviously, they get to know each other better as the book progresses, but I never quite got the sense of a love match, so much as a lust match.
Other aspects of the book were very appealing, though. I thoroughly enjoy when books in a series include characters previously featured, like Todd's partner, the wolf shifter Colin Gyth and his lover Dr. Emily Drake, the monster doctor, from Hotter After Midnight. As Todd's partner, Colin was in several scenes with him, but there were also one or two that featured Colin and Emily alone and I thought the continuity and solidity of character definition between the first book and this one was particularly well done with them and also with the Medical Examiner Smith and the guys' Captain, McNeal.
Despite not being totally enamored of the foundations of the relationship between Todd and Cara, by the end they did fit pretty well together, and the story surrounding them was enjoyable. I'm very much looking forward to the conclusion of the trilogy, Midnight's Master, to spend some time with my favorite character of the entire series so far, the level ten demon Niol. I love that he has his own book and I can't wait to read it.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
Detective Todd Brooks is sick of being in the dark on cases, sick of feeling like his partner...the partner he saw turn into a wolf in an agonizing cacophony of broken and reshaped bones and limbs, doesn't trust him. And he's still not sure how the heck that guy Niol tossed him across the room without seeming to lay a hand on him. He's haunted by what he's seen but he's struggling not to let it affect his work. So what if he's gotten a little testy from the burden? When a new murder case drops into his and his partner Colin's lap, evidence points hard towards the sexiest woman Todd's ever seen and he instantly wants her - bad. He should have guessed that's all is not what it seems, and as murdered men keep popping up, the suspect who every instinct inside Todd is screaming is innocent falls under closer scrutiny and Todd finds out she's got a few secrets of her own. Like the fact that she's a sex demon, for one, though Cara prefers the term succubus, and thanks to Todd no longer accepting being kept in the dark by his partner and Captain, he's already realized that the most likely perpetrator of the deaths of several of Atlanta's human male population is a succubus. Problem is, they're territorial, and Cara's the only one in town. Maybe he shouldn't have slept with her after all...
I truly enjoy Cynthia Eden's writing style and her ability to put together a rousing suspense novel ripe with fantastic paranormal aspects. I think she has a near adept-level ability to wend stunning sexuality, heat, and emotion into a conflagration that sets pages on fire. I love this world she's created for her Midnight trilogy, a world in which others such as demons, shifters, vampires, and witches work and play side by side with humanity with most humans being none the wiser. In the first book of the trilogy, Hotter After Midnight, I also thoroughly enjoyed the lead characters and their relationship, as well as the development of the mystery and suspense, and thought those two aspects worked well together.
Midnight Sins wasn't quite as effective in that last area, unfortunately. We first met the good detective in that first book, Hotter After Midnight, and to be honest, I didn't like him very much. Todd's a bit too quick to fire on that temper of his and he has a tendency to walk very loudly while carrying that big stick. He struck me as stubborn, close minded, opinionated, long on ego, and not so long on intelligence. Admittedly, that impression improved when he got his own book, and his character developed along nicer paths as soon as he got a look at Cara, the succubus with the heart of gold, a sex demon who's given up sex because it leaves her feeling empty inside.
To be honest, I thought the plot of Midnight Sins was a little stronger and more comprehensive than Hotter After Midnight, the danger more personal, and the motivations of the perpetrator more believable. The development and arc of the plot overall was good. I just had some difficulties warming up to Todd as a character, and I wasn't totally sold on the relationship between Todd and Cara. I did enjoy Todd eventually, and I think there was a lot of progress in his character from the previous book through to the end of this one. There were several scenes, one with Colin in particular, in which Todd's lack of prejudice and his ability to adapt quickly to a major paradigm shift became a very nice character trait.
That left, however, problems for me between him and Cara. Their relationship was sexy, it was sultry, it was hot, but it didn't have a whole lot of narrative surrounding its development (it was more like 'I see, I want, I have'), and it didn't offer much beyond superficial motivations for their hook up. Cara's smokin' hot (she's a succubus, so that sort of goes without saying) and Todd's drawn to her almost compulsively, and in Cara's case, she can't mind mojo Todd when he's awake and that appeals to her. It just didn't strike me as much of a solid foundation for a long lasting relationship. Obviously, they get to know each other better as the book progresses, but I never quite got the sense of a love match, so much as a lust match.
Other aspects of the book were very appealing, though. I thoroughly enjoy when books in a series include characters previously featured, like Todd's partner, the wolf shifter Colin Gyth and his lover Dr. Emily Drake, the monster doctor, from Hotter After Midnight. As Todd's partner, Colin was in several scenes with him, but there were also one or two that featured Colin and Emily alone and I thought the continuity and solidity of character definition between the first book and this one was particularly well done with them and also with the Medical Examiner Smith and the guys' Captain, McNeal.
Despite not being totally enamored of the foundations of the relationship between Todd and Cara, by the end they did fit pretty well together, and the story surrounding them was enjoyable. I'm very much looking forward to the conclusion of the trilogy, Midnight's Master, to spend some time with my favorite character of the entire series so far, the level ten demon Niol. I love that he has his own book and I can't wait to read it.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
February 29, 2024
2.5☆
Ами тук не останах много очарована от историята, беше добра, но повтаряше сюжета от първата книга. Пак имаме "чудовище" и човек, които се влюбват и страстта между тях е изпепеляваща. Леко ми омръзна и не четях с такова удоволствие, даже и убиецът не ми беше много интересен. Смисъл, тези книги не се нуждаят от повече...., а като се замисля, че има трета. Определено няма да ги чета повече и даже бих ги затрила. Ще дам шанс и на третата, може да ме изненада по някакъв начин.
Иначе още от първата книга имам симпатии към демона Найл, много ми е интересен, даже в тази книга имаше малко повече проява и ме впечатли още повече. Смисъл - секси е, спечели ме още в началото като се появи, хехех. Много искам да е хубава третата книга и да се насладя на него и историята!
Та, с две думи разбрахте ми мисълта за книгите. Почнах ги на шега, не съжалявам, но и не съм много доволна. Почвам да си набелязвам други книги за четеца, хаха.
Ами тук не останах много очарована от историята, беше добра, но повтаряше сюжета от първата книга. Пак имаме "чудовище" и човек, които се влюбват и страстта между тях е изпепеляваща. Леко ми омръзна и не четях с такова удоволствие, даже и убиецът не ми беше много интересен. Смисъл, тези книги не се нуждаят от повече...., а като се замисля, че има трета. Определено няма да ги чета повече и даже бих ги затрила. Ще дам шанс и на третата, може да ме изненада по някакъв начин.
Иначе още от първата книга имам симпатии към демона Найл, много ми е интересен, даже в тази книга имаше малко повече проява и ме впечатли още повече. Смисъл - секси е, спечели ме още в началото като се появи, хехех. Много искам да е хубава третата книга и да се насладя на него и историята!
Та, с две думи разбрахте ми мисълта за книгите. Почнах ги на шега, не съжалявам, но и не съм много доволна. Почвам да си набелязвам други книги за четеца, хаха.
September 22, 2019
Малко накъсан текст, но въпреки това добра история.
Кара е сукуба с една особеност. Тя иска любов. Тод е чаровник, детектив и партньор на Колин.
Също така е и разбрал какво е мъжът с когото работи. Сега нов убиец се разкарва из града и Кара изглежда виновна. Но трепета между нея и Тод Брукс се разгаря и Кара разкрива всичко за себе си, надявайки се, че Тод няма да я отблъсне.
Кара е сукуба с една особеност. Тя иска любов. Тод е чаровник, детектив и партньор на Колин.
Също така е и разбрал какво е мъжът с когото работи. Сега нов убиец се разкарва из града и Кара изглежда виновна. Но трепета между нея и Тод Брукс се разгаря и Кара разкрива всичко за себе си, надявайки се, че Тод няма да я отблъсне.
November 7, 2021
I always love this type of story. It is about the heroine get accused and get arrested for a crime that she did not do by the hero as a cop. Only i prefer the woman is a damsell in distress and got safe by the hero. But in here, the heroine was stronger than the hero.
January 30, 2019
Intriguing
The most positive way to write about the trust and instinct a person in love has for another, no matter what evidence kept finding Todd always stood by Cara.
The most positive way to write about the trust and instinct a person in love has for another, no matter what evidence kept finding Todd always stood by Cara.
September 4, 2019
A succubus looking for romance and not just sex! I loved it! It was so adorable. I was hoping to know more of Todd's story. Cynthia Eden is fantastic!
February 2, 2020
Fantastic!
Oooh I really enjoyed book two of the Midnight Trilogy. Cara is a super sexy match for Detective Todd. This series just sucks you know ♥️
Oooh I really enjoyed book two of the Midnight Trilogy. Cara is a super sexy match for Detective Todd. This series just sucks you know ♥️
June 27, 2023
Highly recommend, great read! The supernatural aspect was put together very well, and the spice was on point!
August 26, 2024
My actual rating of this book is 3.75 stars.
It took me twelve days to finish this book - again, a very long time just as it's taken me the first book. I don't think the problem lays with this trilogy though - it's because of uni and studying that I don't have much time. Therefore there are days where I haven't read at all and that surely leaves impact on my reading experience, the way I feel about this book and the impression it makes on me.
The suspense in this book was far more entertaining to me than in the first one. We were introduced to succubus and incubus, a whole new murderer(s) and along with them a lot of new world building and information on how the Others and the supernatural beings work. I think I love the succubus far more than the shifters so we have a clear winner here (sorry Colin)
In this book we got many answers to questions we had in the first one - we saw what exactly happened between Smith and Deni, how Todd found out about Colin and bunch of other things that gave me a feeling of satisfaction. I was happy to see our detective duo as well as Smith and Deni make up and have their happily ever after.
I loved Todd and Cara together. Although I absolutely hate the insta lust trope, their chemistry and storyline made me push through it. I loved how down bad Todd was for Cara and how she was as equally in love with him. It was so interesting to see how Todd finds out all about the supernatural around him, how he reacts to it and how he slowly gets used to it. I've been looking forward to this moment in Colin's book. ToddCara were such a treat and although at some moments they were being a little repetitive with the whole "do you trust me/do you hate me because i am a demon" thing, it was realistic and it's close to how many people in their situation would react - constantly needing the reassurance of their partner and having those little doubts that are unavoidable given their circumstances. Everything those two went through made sense for them to fall in love so hard and so fast, so their love confessions in the end didn't seem like insta love to me and didn't leave a bitter taste in my mouth the way it would've happened if their storyline was written differently.
The mystery revolving the succubus-murderer was very thrilling and I enjoyed every aspect to it - who was doing it, why, why were they framing Cara, how exactly were their murdering the victims, what was the connection between all of them, those questions all kept me on my toes. The few small plot twists that came along with that storyline were also great. I think compared to the mystery of the first book, I liked this one far better. It had more components to it, much more possibilities and it was overall better done.
My complaint about the first book can be applied here too - the ending is a let down. We have so many chapters dedicated to this mystery, along with some killer, just for it all to be revealed in the same chapter right before the killer ends up murdered. I would've liked some more epic fight or at least for the murderer to give our heroes more trouble but everything ended before it could've even began. I guess this is the author's style so I will be expecting the same for the third book although I would like to be pleasantly surprised.
As next book we'll follow Nial, I am very excited. We've found out so much about him in this book which makes me look forward to his story even more. In the previous 2 books he was described as this cold, emotionless and stoic man so I wonder how many emotions will we see by him next book and how will his walls crumble because of our new heroine? Also, secretly I hope that he'll finally form somewhat of a tolerable relationship with Todd and Colin cause these three would be great together if they stopped being so salty lmao
Bottom line is, I liked this book with little exceptions and it's a good series so far so I can't wait to see what happens next.
It took me twelve days to finish this book - again, a very long time just as it's taken me the first book. I don't think the problem lays with this trilogy though - it's because of uni and studying that I don't have much time. Therefore there are days where I haven't read at all and that surely leaves impact on my reading experience, the way I feel about this book and the impression it makes on me.
The suspense in this book was far more entertaining to me than in the first one. We were introduced to succubus and incubus, a whole new murderer(s) and along with them a lot of new world building and information on how the Others and the supernatural beings work. I think I love the succubus far more than the shifters so we have a clear winner here (sorry Colin)
In this book we got many answers to questions we had in the first one - we saw what exactly happened between Smith and Deni, how Todd found out about Colin and bunch of other things that gave me a feeling of satisfaction. I was happy to see our detective duo as well as Smith and Deni make up and have their happily ever after.
I loved Todd and Cara together. Although I absolutely hate the insta lust trope, their chemistry and storyline made me push through it. I loved how down bad Todd was for Cara and how she was as equally in love with him. It was so interesting to see how Todd finds out all about the supernatural around him, how he reacts to it and how he slowly gets used to it. I've been looking forward to this moment in Colin's book. ToddCara were such a treat and although at some moments they were being a little repetitive with the whole "do you trust me/do you hate me because i am a demon" thing, it was realistic and it's close to how many people in their situation would react - constantly needing the reassurance of their partner and having those little doubts that are unavoidable given their circumstances. Everything those two went through made sense for them to fall in love so hard and so fast, so their love confessions in the end didn't seem like insta love to me and didn't leave a bitter taste in my mouth the way it would've happened if their storyline was written differently.
The mystery revolving the succubus-murderer was very thrilling and I enjoyed every aspect to it - who was doing it, why, why were they framing Cara, how exactly were their murdering the victims, what was the connection between all of them, those questions all kept me on my toes. The few small plot twists that came along with that storyline were also great. I think compared to the mystery of the first book, I liked this one far better. It had more components to it, much more possibilities and it was overall better done.
My complaint about the first book can be applied here too - the ending is a let down. We have so many chapters dedicated to this mystery, along with some killer, just for it all to be revealed in the same chapter right before the killer ends up murdered. I would've liked some more epic fight or at least for the murderer to give our heroes more trouble but everything ended before it could've even began. I guess this is the author's style so I will be expecting the same for the third book although I would like to be pleasantly surprised.
As next book we'll follow Nial, I am very excited. We've found out so much about him in this book which makes me look forward to his story even more. In the previous 2 books he was described as this cold, emotionless and stoic man so I wonder how many emotions will we see by him next book and how will his walls crumble because of our new heroine? Also, secretly I hope that he'll finally form somewhat of a tolerable relationship with Todd and Colin cause these three would be great together if they stopped being so salty lmao
Bottom line is, I liked this book with little exceptions and it's a good series so far so I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 21, 2009
Detective Todd Brooks is working a very intense case where a possible female serial killer is targeting men by having kinky sex with them, and then killing them. Todd and his partner, Colin Gyth (hero from Hotter After Midnight), have no clue how the men died. Other then finding the bodies tied to a bed; there is no other trauma to the victim. There may finally be a break in the case; a witness has seen the killer, a woman with long, curly blond hair. Things get even better when they find a women’s purse with an ID inside. The woman in the picture also has long, curly blond hair and her name is Cara Firon. Todd thinks they have their killer, and will bring her to justice.
Cara Firon’s purse was stolen, or that is the excuse she gives to the two detectives. Todd knows there is something different about Cara, and he won’t stop until he finds out what secrets she is hiding. He has already had to deal with people he trusted, such as Colin, lying to him. Todd is right about one thing, Cara is not very truthful, she is a succubus who needs sex to stay alive. Cara has decided to give up on sex for the time being because every sexual act leaves her empty inside. Her job as a singer at a paranormal nightclub gives her the power she needs because she feeds off the energy of the crowd. Even though Todd accuses her of murder, she can’t help but want to break her sexual dry spell with her accuser.
Todd also wants Cara, and when he figures out she is not the guilty party, he will try to do whatever he can to get her into his bed. But first Todd wants answers from Cara. He wants to know her relationship with one of the victims, and why she works for a man that skirts the law. Cara wants Todd as much as he wants her, but how will she ever tell him what she is? Will he be able to handle a demon in his bed? And will Todd keep her safe from the killer who has done all of this to make Cara pay?
Midnight Sins is a cross between a paranormal romance and a police procedural that gets gritty in its telling. Cynthia Eden sure knows her way around a crime scene and I was very interested in the whole inner workings of the police and their associates who work on a case. There is a little added element here with the world of demons and shape shifters who walk among the humans and must keep that part of their lives a secret. Todd’s partner Colin is not what he first seems to be, and like Cara has a fear of being an outcast and possibly hunted and killed.
Todd has a bad attitude, and that has to do with his reaction to Colin. In the first book, HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT, Colin showed his ‘true colors’. Finding out that Colin wasn’t human scared Todd and so you can imagine his reaction when Cara tells him what she really is. I found Todd a bit too hardnosed for my tastes, especially in the way he treats Cara. Even when he decides she is not guilty, he is less than a gentleman around her, mostly because he wants to have sex with her.
The sex between Cara and Todd simmers and is pretty much the standard sex scenes in a novel such as this. The chemistry between these two was adequate, but I did feel something was missing. I think part of my problem is because Todd was a big jerk towards Cara and couldn’t get over his trust issues with her. There were also times I was bored with these two because I didn’t have much of an emotional response towards these characters.
I was impressed by how well Cynthia kept the suspense and mystery going as well as trying to guess whom the killer is. This world is pretty dark with characters that tend to be miserable because they are constantly watching their backs. MIDNIGHT SINS may have been a bit lacking for my tastes, but those who like a tension filled paranormal with hot sex should give this one a go.
Cara Firon’s purse was stolen, or that is the excuse she gives to the two detectives. Todd knows there is something different about Cara, and he won’t stop until he finds out what secrets she is hiding. He has already had to deal with people he trusted, such as Colin, lying to him. Todd is right about one thing, Cara is not very truthful, she is a succubus who needs sex to stay alive. Cara has decided to give up on sex for the time being because every sexual act leaves her empty inside. Her job as a singer at a paranormal nightclub gives her the power she needs because she feeds off the energy of the crowd. Even though Todd accuses her of murder, she can’t help but want to break her sexual dry spell with her accuser.
Todd also wants Cara, and when he figures out she is not the guilty party, he will try to do whatever he can to get her into his bed. But first Todd wants answers from Cara. He wants to know her relationship with one of the victims, and why she works for a man that skirts the law. Cara wants Todd as much as he wants her, but how will she ever tell him what she is? Will he be able to handle a demon in his bed? And will Todd keep her safe from the killer who has done all of this to make Cara pay?
Midnight Sins is a cross between a paranormal romance and a police procedural that gets gritty in its telling. Cynthia Eden sure knows her way around a crime scene and I was very interested in the whole inner workings of the police and their associates who work on a case. There is a little added element here with the world of demons and shape shifters who walk among the humans and must keep that part of their lives a secret. Todd’s partner Colin is not what he first seems to be, and like Cara has a fear of being an outcast and possibly hunted and killed.
Todd has a bad attitude, and that has to do with his reaction to Colin. In the first book, HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT, Colin showed his ‘true colors’. Finding out that Colin wasn’t human scared Todd and so you can imagine his reaction when Cara tells him what she really is. I found Todd a bit too hardnosed for my tastes, especially in the way he treats Cara. Even when he decides she is not guilty, he is less than a gentleman around her, mostly because he wants to have sex with her.
The sex between Cara and Todd simmers and is pretty much the standard sex scenes in a novel such as this. The chemistry between these two was adequate, but I did feel something was missing. I think part of my problem is because Todd was a big jerk towards Cara and couldn’t get over his trust issues with her. There were also times I was bored with these two because I didn’t have much of an emotional response towards these characters.
I was impressed by how well Cynthia kept the suspense and mystery going as well as trying to guess whom the killer is. This world is pretty dark with characters that tend to be miserable because they are constantly watching their backs. MIDNIGHT SINS may have been a bit lacking for my tastes, but those who like a tension filled paranormal with hot sex should give this one a go.
July 27, 2011
I guess being six months behind on reading a series is better than years like most others in my TBR pile. The third book, Midnight’s Master, in this trilogy just released last month, so at least I’m up to date to get started on it now and hopefully not in six months. Honestly, though, I have no idea why I waited so long to read this book. I loved the first book, Hotter After Midnight and even lamented in my review that I had to wait too long for Midnight Sins. But it’s finally read and, just as with Hotter After Midnight, I had a time of it.
I noticed in rereading the previous review that I started out doubting how much I would like the book based on the first few pages. Is it Ms Eden who teases the reader or is it just me? I had the same thing happen this time around too. Maybe it’s me. Demons aren’t my favorite read, so it took a minute or two for the heroine, Cara, to grow on me. But once the sparks started flying between her and the hero, Todd, I became a very happy reader.
Cara is a succubus and she’s decided to give up on sex. Is that even possible? Cara just doesn’t have it in her to be a predator like other succubi; she’s left empty and lonely after a night of carefree sex with whoever. So for her having no sex is better than those feelings. She’s a singer at a local club where a lot Other congregate for their nocturnal activities and she draws enough power from them when she sings, at least enough to get by. Then she’s hauled in to the local PD station, questioned in the death of a man she’d previously had a relationship with. That’s where she meets Todd. A human. And does that human do something to her. Big time.
Thinking he’s found his woman, Todd’s case just became open and shut. Good thing he jumped the gun in thinking Cara could have killed the string of dead men he and his partner have come across recently. She’s definitely his woman, just in a totally different way. Todd is still having a hard time accepting his partner is a shifter and that the world is not as he imagined with such creatures roaming around his city. And now Cara. He knows she’s different, but when she’s in his arms, in his bed, he doesn’t care. He just wants her. Even finding out she’s a demon doesn’t make him flinch. Knowing she’s being set up for the murders he’s investigating makes him all the more determined to find the real culprit. He’ll protect her life with his own.
Once I got to know Cara, I really liked her, especially her vulnerability when it comes to Todd and what she may be able to have with him. They both have secrets, her more so because of what she is, and I enjoyed how those were revealed through the book, interspersed with the investigation elements that were also revealed. And, of course, I loved Todd. He may not be an Other, but the man is alpha and hot to the core, just the way I like them.
As usual, Ms. Eden’s love scenes are smoldering and intense and burn through the pages as you read. The secondary characters, most of which we met in the first book, are all very well written. I also liked the relationship between Captain MacNeil and Dr. Smith, the ME for the department. I was thinking they might be the main characters for the next book, but it’s Niol, a super powerful demon, and Holly, the local news reporter, who get that honor. I hope the captain and the doctor are included in Midnight’s Master so we get a conclusion there too.
I really enjoy Ms. Eden’s writing. She gives us a well-rounded story, a little bit of everything, and you can’t ask for anything more in a book. I have other books of hers in the TBR. I’m going to have to make sure I don’t wait six months to get to them, because I know I’ll be in for some great reads.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
I noticed in rereading the previous review that I started out doubting how much I would like the book based on the first few pages. Is it Ms Eden who teases the reader or is it just me? I had the same thing happen this time around too. Maybe it’s me. Demons aren’t my favorite read, so it took a minute or two for the heroine, Cara, to grow on me. But once the sparks started flying between her and the hero, Todd, I became a very happy reader.
Cara is a succubus and she’s decided to give up on sex. Is that even possible? Cara just doesn’t have it in her to be a predator like other succubi; she’s left empty and lonely after a night of carefree sex with whoever. So for her having no sex is better than those feelings. She’s a singer at a local club where a lot Other congregate for their nocturnal activities and she draws enough power from them when she sings, at least enough to get by. Then she’s hauled in to the local PD station, questioned in the death of a man she’d previously had a relationship with. That’s where she meets Todd. A human. And does that human do something to her. Big time.
Thinking he’s found his woman, Todd’s case just became open and shut. Good thing he jumped the gun in thinking Cara could have killed the string of dead men he and his partner have come across recently. She’s definitely his woman, just in a totally different way. Todd is still having a hard time accepting his partner is a shifter and that the world is not as he imagined with such creatures roaming around his city. And now Cara. He knows she’s different, but when she’s in his arms, in his bed, he doesn’t care. He just wants her. Even finding out she’s a demon doesn’t make him flinch. Knowing she’s being set up for the murders he’s investigating makes him all the more determined to find the real culprit. He’ll protect her life with his own.
Once I got to know Cara, I really liked her, especially her vulnerability when it comes to Todd and what she may be able to have with him. They both have secrets, her more so because of what she is, and I enjoyed how those were revealed through the book, interspersed with the investigation elements that were also revealed. And, of course, I loved Todd. He may not be an Other, but the man is alpha and hot to the core, just the way I like them.
As usual, Ms. Eden’s love scenes are smoldering and intense and burn through the pages as you read. The secondary characters, most of which we met in the first book, are all very well written. I also liked the relationship between Captain MacNeil and Dr. Smith, the ME for the department. I was thinking they might be the main characters for the next book, but it’s Niol, a super powerful demon, and Holly, the local news reporter, who get that honor. I hope the captain and the doctor are included in Midnight’s Master so we get a conclusion there too.
I really enjoy Ms. Eden’s writing. She gives us a well-rounded story, a little bit of everything, and you can’t ask for anything more in a book. I have other books of hers in the TBR. I’m going to have to make sure I don’t wait six months to get to them, because I know I’ll be in for some great reads.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
January 21, 2010
"Do you believe in monsters?" She repeated the question and licked her succulent red lips. "You really should, you know."
"And why is that?" His heart pounded like a drum, the dull beat echoing in his ears.
"Because according to some people, I'm one of the worst monsters you'll ever meet."
Police detective Colin Gyth and Todd Brooks are called to the scene of a sexual murder. It is the third such scene they've been to and they know they have a serial killer on the loose. Probably female as all the victims were men who were found naked and tied to a hotel room bed. In the other scenes the killer left no trace and the cops were out in the cold. This time, though, the killer left behind her wallet. How convenient!
Cara Maloan is the unlucky suspect. As a suspect she is a doozy. She is a succubus who can kill with a touch. And who can make people around her crazy with lust. Brooks finds himself incredibly attracted to her and Cara, to her shock, finds in Brooks the one guy with whom she can connect and whose mind is strong enough to withstand her.
It becomes obvious that the killer is setting up Cara but why? Brooks is determined to make sure she is in the clear so that the two of them can pursue the attraction between them.
I really enjoyed the first book of this series so I immediately got this second book. I actually think this one was stronger of the two. While I enjoyed Emily and Colin in the first book, I think Cara and Brooks' relationship was much more romantically drawn and the book was the better for it.
Like the first book, this one was still a blend of genres, but it had the advantage of being able to build on the personalities already introduced.
I am glad that Brooks, who had been willfully left ignorant in the previous book of the existence of the 'Other' got a clue in this one. And he got it on his own! He is a detective after all. And he was understandably bitter that the people who he trusted and was supposed to trust him --his captain and his partner -- had left him swinging in the wind. I love how he informed them that he knew about the paranormals. It was a very "I already know and screw you guys" kind of scene which gave me some satisfaction for him.
Cara was an especially strong heroine. And I don't mean in a tattooed-dagger-wielding-leather wearing way. But in a woman who is a Demon and who knows her strengths but also knows her wants as well. And she doesn't jerk Brooks around. She doesn't sit on her secret and let him stew. When it becomes evident that she and Todd are growing into something, she basically sits him down and tells him "Dude, I am a succubus." Well, not exactly like that. But she didn't wring her hands and clutch her pearls about her identity. So pluses for her.
And there is of course the other recurring characters who are still good texture for the books. Niol the Super Demon continues to fascinate me incredibly. I like a guy who is unapologetic about what he is and what he does. He's a killer and he knows it. Kudos. Smith, the ME who was kidnapped and brutalized by a shifter in the last book is slowly coming to terms with the existence of Others. I like how realistic it is to have her formerly great relationship with Gyth strained because of her trauma. And then there is her relationship with Captain McNeal. These two kids are crazy in love and can't admit it. Aw.
Good book. Looking forward to the next in the series.
"And why is that?" His heart pounded like a drum, the dull beat echoing in his ears.
"Because according to some people, I'm one of the worst monsters you'll ever meet."
Police detective Colin Gyth and Todd Brooks are called to the scene of a sexual murder. It is the third such scene they've been to and they know they have a serial killer on the loose. Probably female as all the victims were men who were found naked and tied to a hotel room bed. In the other scenes the killer left no trace and the cops were out in the cold. This time, though, the killer left behind her wallet. How convenient!
Cara Maloan is the unlucky suspect. As a suspect she is a doozy. She is a succubus who can kill with a touch. And who can make people around her crazy with lust. Brooks finds himself incredibly attracted to her and Cara, to her shock, finds in Brooks the one guy with whom she can connect and whose mind is strong enough to withstand her.
It becomes obvious that the killer is setting up Cara but why? Brooks is determined to make sure she is in the clear so that the two of them can pursue the attraction between them.
I really enjoyed the first book of this series so I immediately got this second book. I actually think this one was stronger of the two. While I enjoyed Emily and Colin in the first book, I think Cara and Brooks' relationship was much more romantically drawn and the book was the better for it.
Like the first book, this one was still a blend of genres, but it had the advantage of being able to build on the personalities already introduced.
I am glad that Brooks, who had been willfully left ignorant in the previous book of the existence of the 'Other' got a clue in this one. And he got it on his own! He is a detective after all. And he was understandably bitter that the people who he trusted and was supposed to trust him --his captain and his partner -- had left him swinging in the wind. I love how he informed them that he knew about the paranormals. It was a very "I already know and screw you guys" kind of scene which gave me some satisfaction for him.
Cara was an especially strong heroine. And I don't mean in a tattooed-dagger-wielding-leather wearing way. But in a woman who is a Demon and who knows her strengths but also knows her wants as well. And she doesn't jerk Brooks around. She doesn't sit on her secret and let him stew. When it becomes evident that she and Todd are growing into something, she basically sits him down and tells him "Dude, I am a succubus." Well, not exactly like that. But she didn't wring her hands and clutch her pearls about her identity. So pluses for her.
And there is of course the other recurring characters who are still good texture for the books. Niol the Super Demon continues to fascinate me incredibly. I like a guy who is unapologetic about what he is and what he does. He's a killer and he knows it. Kudos. Smith, the ME who was kidnapped and brutalized by a shifter in the last book is slowly coming to terms with the existence of Others. I like how realistic it is to have her formerly great relationship with Gyth strained because of her trauma. And then there is her relationship with Captain McNeal. These two kids are crazy in love and can't admit it. Aw.
Good book. Looking forward to the next in the series.
August 1, 2013
Cynthia Eden's books popped up for me at a time when I was feeling somewhat restless about what I wanted to read next. As I said in my review of book one, I shy away from paranormal romance a lot. I don't know why, I just have to be in a mood for it. My mood lately has been increasingly accepting, and if I continue to find books as good as the Midnight Mini-series, I'm sure that will continue.
Summary:
We first met Detective Todd Brooks in Hotter After Midnight when the story was focused on his shifter partner, Colin, and his lady love Dr. Emily Drake. About all we got from Todd was that he was smooth with the ladies and could play a mean good cop while busting a criminal easily. We also know that he was essentially kept out of the loop about certain things, strange, unaccountable things. Todd is done with lies and subterfuge. He and Colin have just landed a new case that is proving to be as strange as the previous one, but he refuses to be pushed aside. He's a damn good cop and cares deeply about his job. When another serial killer starts leaving dead bodies, male dead bodies, in seedy hotel rooms across Atlanta, the detectives are lucky and suspicious at getting an easy lead to a mysterious suspect. Cara Maloan looks nothing like a killer. In fact, if asked, Todd would have guessed her to have been sent from heaven with her gorgeous looks and soft appearance. Unfortunately, Cara is the only person connected to three unexplainable murders. Cara is a succubus or sex demon. They live off the sensual feelings and pleasures of sex, but Cara is different. She doesnt want meaningless sex any more. She wants a man to love her, the real her and not the carefully constructed shell that can lure men with only a look. She vows to change her life, until she meets the good detective. Knowing she's taking a risk trusting a human who believes her to be a murderer, the pull between them encourages Cara to let Todd in on her true identity. Todd cant help but be attracted to the sexy nightclub singer. Something about her ignites a need and passion so deep he cant control it. After obtaining alibis and clearing her of murder, he takes his shot knowing he has to have her. Even after Cara discloses what she is, how the world is really made up, he wants her. She's his, only his, but a killer is still out there wreaking havoc. Dealing with the various secrets each holds of their lives is nothing compared to the someone or something that has targeted Cara for revenge. A killer is setting Cara up, but for what? Todd and Cara will battle a killer who's a monster in more ways than one, but as new evidence comes to light, what's happening becomes confusing and they may be up against more than one serial killer, because it's looking like two.
I loved Todd. He was so passionate about his job and Cara. At first, I thought there was no way he could feel for her, what with her magic in the air, but you are quickly set straight with not only his words but his actions. Cara was so sweet. Despite her nature, she is sweet and caring. She's also got a fire that flows deep and can emerge if she's threatened. I loved that. Supporting cast was again, great! We got to see a bit of Colin and Emily but the focus stayed a lot with Todd and Cara. I was also excited to get a glimpse at Dr. Smith and the police captain. I was worried how Dr. Smith would heal after her ordeal, and it looks like really well. Cant wait for Niol! <3
Summary:
We first met Detective Todd Brooks in Hotter After Midnight when the story was focused on his shifter partner, Colin, and his lady love Dr. Emily Drake. About all we got from Todd was that he was smooth with the ladies and could play a mean good cop while busting a criminal easily. We also know that he was essentially kept out of the loop about certain things, strange, unaccountable things. Todd is done with lies and subterfuge. He and Colin have just landed a new case that is proving to be as strange as the previous one, but he refuses to be pushed aside. He's a damn good cop and cares deeply about his job. When another serial killer starts leaving dead bodies, male dead bodies, in seedy hotel rooms across Atlanta, the detectives are lucky and suspicious at getting an easy lead to a mysterious suspect. Cara Maloan looks nothing like a killer. In fact, if asked, Todd would have guessed her to have been sent from heaven with her gorgeous looks and soft appearance. Unfortunately, Cara is the only person connected to three unexplainable murders. Cara is a succubus or sex demon. They live off the sensual feelings and pleasures of sex, but Cara is different. She doesnt want meaningless sex any more. She wants a man to love her, the real her and not the carefully constructed shell that can lure men with only a look. She vows to change her life, until she meets the good detective. Knowing she's taking a risk trusting a human who believes her to be a murderer, the pull between them encourages Cara to let Todd in on her true identity. Todd cant help but be attracted to the sexy nightclub singer. Something about her ignites a need and passion so deep he cant control it. After obtaining alibis and clearing her of murder, he takes his shot knowing he has to have her. Even after Cara discloses what she is, how the world is really made up, he wants her. She's his, only his, but a killer is still out there wreaking havoc. Dealing with the various secrets each holds of their lives is nothing compared to the someone or something that has targeted Cara for revenge. A killer is setting Cara up, but for what? Todd and Cara will battle a killer who's a monster in more ways than one, but as new evidence comes to light, what's happening becomes confusing and they may be up against more than one serial killer, because it's looking like two.
I loved Todd. He was so passionate about his job and Cara. At first, I thought there was no way he could feel for her, what with her magic in the air, but you are quickly set straight with not only his words but his actions. Cara was so sweet. Despite her nature, she is sweet and caring. She's also got a fire that flows deep and can emerge if she's threatened. I loved that. Supporting cast was again, great! We got to see a bit of Colin and Emily but the focus stayed a lot with Todd and Cara. I was also excited to get a glimpse at Dr. Smith and the police captain. I was worried how Dr. Smith would heal after her ordeal, and it looks like really well. Cant wait for Niol! <3
September 26, 2014
หนังสือเล่มนี้เป็นหนังสือขนาดยาวเล่มที่สองซินเธีย และเราขอบอกว่า ถูกใจเรามาก และทำให้ตอนนี้เธอกลายเป็นหนึ่งในนักเขียนใหม่ที่เราจับตามองมากที่สุดคนนึงแห่งปีนี้เลยค่ะ
เืรื่องนี้เป็นเล่มที่สองในชุด ต่อเนื่องกับ Hotter after midnight ที่เล่าเรื่องราวของสิ่งมีชีวิตอย่างอื่นที่ไม่ใช่มนุษย์ ซึ่งเดินปะปนกับเรา เราไม่คิดว่า คุณจำเป็นต้องอ่านเล่มแรกก่อนที่จะอ่านเล่มนี้หรอกนะคะ เพราะอย่างเราเนี่ยอ่านเล่มแรกจบไปแล้ว และเกือบจะลืมไปแล้วด้วย ยังหยิบเรื่องนี้มาอ่านได้อย่างไม่มีปัญหาอะไร
เช่นเดียวกับเล่มแรก เรื่องนี้เปิดเรื่องด้วยสถานที่เกิดเหตุฆาตกรรม คราวนี้เหยื่อคือชายหนุ่มหน้าตาดี แข็งแรง และถูกมัด เขาตายโดยไม่มีบาดแผล และส่อว่าคนที่ฆ่าเขาคือผู้หญิงที่เขาพาเข้ามาในโรงแรมม่านรูด จากการค้นในที่เกิดเหตุ ตำรวจพบกระเป๋าถือที่ภายในมีบัตรประชาชนระบุชื่อ คาร่า มาโลน
ดังนั้นทอดด์ บรู๊คส์ และคอลินคู่หูจึงไปที่บ้านของหญิงผู้นั้นเพื่อสอบถามความเกี่ยวข้อง และเพียงแว่บแรกที่ได้พบกัน ทอดด์ก็เจอผู้หญิงในฝัน อันที่จริงคาร่าเป็นหญิงในฝันของชายทุกคน นั่นเพราะเธอคือซัสคิวบัส (หรือปีศาจทางเซ็กส์ ที่ได้พลังงานจากกิจกรรมทางเพศ) และเช่นเดียวกัน เพียงแว่บแรก คอลิน คู่หูของทอดด์ และพระเอกเล่มแรกในชุด ก็รู้ว่าเธอไม่ใช่มนุษย์ธรรมดา ส่วนเธอก็รู้ว่าคอลินเองก็ไม่ใช่คนปกติเช่นกัน
มีเพียงทอดด์เท่านั้นที่อยู่ในความมืด เขาเป็นเพียงมนุษย์ธรรมดา และมักถูกกันอยู่วงนอกทุกครั้งที่การสอบสวนเริ่มนำไปยังทิศทางที่พิลึก เขารู้สึกถึงความผิดปกตินี้ และไม่ชอบมันมากนัก โดยเฉพาะเขารู้แล้วว่า คู่หูของเขาก็มีบางอย่างที่แปลกเอามาก ๆ ดังนั้นในการฆาตกรรมครั้งนี้ ทอดด์ปฏิเสธที่จะถูกกันออกไปอีก โดยเฉพาะอย่างยิ่งเมื่อมันเริ่มชัดเจนเอามาก ๆ ว่า คาร่า เป็นเป้าหมายของฆาตกรโหดคนนี้ด้วย
เมื่อเปรียบเทียบกับเล่มแรกที่เราติว่า พล็อตเรื่องมันเป็นสูตรมากไปหน่อย เรื่องนี้ก็ยังคงเป็นไปตามสูตรนะคะ ไม่ได้โดดเด่นในเรื่องความคิดสร้างสรรอะไรนัก แต่เพราะความโดดเด่นของตัวพระนางในเรื่องทำให้เราให้อภัยความพื้น ๆ ในส่วนของพล็อตไปได้เลย
โดยเฉพาะทอดด์ที่เรารู้สึกเฉยกะเขามาก ตอนที่เขาเป็นตัวละครรองในเล่มแรก (เราถูกใจตัวนีออลซึ่งจะเป็นพระเอกในเล่มสามในชุดมากกว่า) ก่อนที่จะเริ่มอ่านเล่มนี้ เราก็ไม่ได้ตื่นเต้นอยากอ่านอะไรนัก แต่ทอดด์ (ซึ่งเป็นชื่อชนิดที่เราเกลียดมากเสียด้วย) ทำให้เราผิดคาด เพราะเขาดีเกินกว่าที่คิด ยิ่งเมื่อเขาปักใจแล้วว่า เขารักคาร่า เขาก็ทุ่มเทร้อยเปอร์เซ็นต์ เชื่อมั่นในตัวเธออย่างเต็มที่ และยอมเสี่ยงแม้จะทำให้หน้าที่การงานของตัวเองอยู่ในอันตราย
เรายิ่งชอบเขามากขึ้นกับการที่เขาเป็นเพียงมนุษย์ธรรมดาคนเดียวในเรื่องที่เต็มไปด้วยบุคคลที่มีความพิเศษเหนือมนุษย์ ทอดด์ไม่ได้ดูด้อยไปกับความเป็นคนธรรมดาของเขาเลย แม้ในตอนสุดท้ายของเรื่องที่เผชิญหน้ากับผู้ร้าย ก็เป็นทอดด์คนธรรมดาคนนี้นี่แหละที่ล้มคนร้ายลงได้
คาร่าเป็นตัวละครที่มีบทนิดหน่อยในเล่มแรก (คุณต้องช่างสังเกตและมีความจำดีพอสมควรถึงจะนึกถึงเธอออก เราลืมเธอไปแล้วแหละ จนกระทั่งมาสะดุดใจกับฉากนึง จนไปหยิบเล่มแรกมาเปิดอ่านอีกรอบ ถึงได้เจอตัวเธอ) ปกติเราไม่ชอบตัวละครทีเ่ป็นซัสคิวบัสมากนัก (มักรู้สึกว่าทำให้นางเอกดูปล่อยตัวมากเกินไปหน่อย) แต่คาร่าเป็นซัสคิวบัสแบบพิเศษ เพราะเธอไม่ชอบการมีความสัมพันธ์ชนิดฉาบฉวย เธอต้องการใครสักคนที่รักเธอ และยกให้เธอเป็นหนึ่งในดวงใจ เราเชื่อว่าเธอเจอผู้ชายคนนั้นในตัวทอดด์
โดยรวมสนุกดีค่ะ เราชอบ คะแนนที่ 73
เืรื่องนี้เป็นเล่มที่สองในชุด ต่อเนื่องกับ Hotter after midnight ที่เล่าเรื่องราวของสิ่งมีชีวิตอย่างอื่นที่ไม่ใช่มนุษย์ ซึ่งเดินปะปนกับเรา เราไม่คิดว่า คุณจำเป็นต้องอ่านเล่มแรกก่อนที่จะอ่านเล่มนี้หรอกนะคะ เพราะอย่างเราเนี่ยอ่านเล่มแรกจบไปแล้ว และเกือบจะลืมไปแล้วด้วย ยังหยิบเรื่องนี้มาอ่านได้อย่างไม่มีปัญหาอะไร
เช่นเดียวกับเล่มแรก เรื่องนี้เปิดเรื่องด้วยสถานที่เกิดเหตุฆาตกรรม คราวนี้เหยื่อคือชายหนุ่มหน้าตาดี แข็งแรง และถูกมัด เขาตายโดยไม่มีบาดแผล และส่อว่าคนที่ฆ่าเขาคือผู้หญิงที่เขาพาเข้ามาในโรงแรมม่านรูด จากการค้นในที่เกิดเหตุ ตำรวจพบกระเป๋าถือที่ภายในมีบัตรประชาชนระบุชื่อ คาร่า มาโลน
ดังนั้นทอดด์ บรู๊คส์ และคอลินคู่หูจึงไปที่บ้านของหญิงผู้นั้นเพื่อสอบถามความเกี่ยวข้อง และเพียงแว่บแรกที่ได้พบกัน ทอดด์ก็เจอผู้หญิงในฝัน อันที่จริงคาร่าเป็นหญิงในฝันของชายทุกคน นั่นเพราะเธอคือซัสคิวบัส (หรือปีศาจทางเซ็กส์ ที่ได้พลังงานจากกิจกรรมทางเพศ) และเช่นเดียวกัน เพียงแว่บแรก คอลิน คู่หูของทอดด์ และพระเอกเล่มแรกในชุด ก็รู้ว่าเธอไม่ใช่มนุษย์ธรรมดา ส่วนเธอก็รู้ว่าคอลินเองก็ไม่ใช่คนปกติเช่นกัน
มีเพียงทอดด์เท่านั้นที่อยู่ในความมืด เขาเป็นเพียงมนุษย์ธรรมดา และมักถูกกันอยู่วงนอกทุกครั้งที่การสอบสวนเริ่มนำไปยังทิศทางที่พิลึก เขารู้สึกถึงความผิดปกตินี้ และไม่ชอบมันมากนัก โดยเฉพาะเขารู้แล้วว่า คู่หูของเขาก็มีบางอย่างที่แปลกเอามาก ๆ ดังนั้นในการฆาตกรรมครั้งนี้ ทอดด์ปฏิเสธที่จะถูกกันออกไปอีก โดยเฉพาะอย่างยิ่งเมื่อมันเริ่มชัดเจนเอามาก ๆ ว่า คาร่า เป็นเป้าหมายของฆาตกรโหดคนนี้ด้วย
เมื่อเปรียบเทียบกับเล่มแรกที่เราติว่า พล็อตเรื่องมันเป็นสูตรมากไปหน่อย เรื่องนี้ก็ยังคงเป็นไปตามสูตรนะคะ ไม่ได้โดดเด่นในเรื่องความคิดสร้างสรรอะไรนัก แต่เพราะความโดดเด่นของตัวพระนางในเรื่องทำให้เราให้อภัยความพื้น ๆ ในส่วนของพล็อตไปได้เลย
โดยเฉพาะทอดด์ที่เรารู้สึกเฉยกะเขามาก ตอนที่เขาเป็นตัวละครรองในเล่มแรก (เราถูกใจตัวนีออลซึ่งจะเป็นพระเอกในเล่มสามในชุดมากกว่า) ก่อนที่จะเริ่มอ่านเล่มนี้ เราก็ไม่ได้ตื่นเต้นอยากอ่านอะไรนัก แต่ทอดด์ (ซึ่งเป็นชื่อชนิดที่เราเกลียดมากเสียด้วย) ทำให้เราผิดคาด เพราะเขาดีเกินกว่าที่คิด ยิ่งเมื่อเขาปักใจแล้วว่า เขารักคาร่า เขาก็ทุ่มเทร้อยเปอร์เซ็นต์ เชื่อมั่นในตัวเธออย่างเต็มที่ และยอมเสี่ยงแม้จะทำให้หน้าที่การงานของตัวเองอยู่ในอันตราย
เรายิ่งชอบเขามากขึ้นกับการที่เขาเป็นเพียงมนุษย์ธรรมดาคนเดียวในเรื่องที่เต็มไปด้วยบุคคลที่มีความพิเศษเหนือมนุษย์ ทอดด์ไม่ได้ดูด้อยไปกับความเป็นคนธรรมดาของเขาเลย แม้ในตอนสุดท้ายของเรื่องที่เผชิญหน้ากับผู้ร้าย ก็เป็นทอดด์คนธรรมดาคนนี้นี่แหละที่ล้มคนร้ายลงได้
คาร่าเป็นตัวละครที่มีบทนิดหน่อยในเล่มแรก (คุณต้องช่างสังเกตและมีความจำดีพอสมควรถึงจะนึกถึงเธอออก เราลืมเธอไปแล้วแหละ จนกระทั่งมาสะดุดใจกับฉากนึง จนไปหยิบเล่มแรกมาเปิดอ่านอีกรอบ ถึงได้เจอตัวเธอ) ปกติเราไม่ชอบตัวละครทีเ่ป็นซัสคิวบัสมากนัก (มักรู้สึกว่าทำให้นางเอกดูปล่อยตัวมากเกินไปหน่อย) แต่คาร่าเป็นซัสคิวบัสแบบพิเศษ เพราะเธอไม่ชอบการมีความสัมพันธ์ชนิดฉาบฉวย เธอต้องการใครสักคนที่รักเธอ และยกให้เธอเป็นหนึ่งในดวงใจ เราเชื่อว่าเธอเจอผู้ชายคนนั้นในตัวทอดด์
โดยรวมสนุกดีค่ะ เราชอบ คะแนนที่ 73
August 29, 2015
3.5 stars
Although it may not be reflected in my rating, unlike most readers I actually enjoyed this one more than the first book (Hotter After Midnight). I felt the characters were a little better developed in this one, and the insta-lust trope which featured again was at least better explained and therefore understandable. I also felt the suspense plot didn’t overshadow the romance.
Unfortunately, I must use the term romance very loosely, because the very reason for the insta-lust working is the reason that I had difficulty buying the romance. I’ve yet to read a succubus/incubus story that worked for me on the romance level, because the attraction is somewhat of a compulsion for both parties, not necessarily a choice.
I can appreciate a ‘fated mate’ storyline because often only the hero recognises the heroine as his mate, while the heroine takes some convincing. This allows the hero to woo the heroine and for her to fall in love more naturally and with some degree of choice (of course there are always exceptions to this, and those ones are less likely to work for me).
With a succubus/incubus storyline, the element of free-will is somewhat removed, with the seduction not requiring any effort - and that was probably my only issue with this book. If you don’t mind a succubus/incubus H/h, then you likely not have any of the concerns that I had with this one, because it is otherwise a great read.
Cynthia Eden once again creates a blend of genres – romance, suspense, paranormal, procedural, erotic – to craft a very entertaining world. Cara Maloan is a succubus who is attempting to swear off sex, using singing in a demon club to create the lust and seduction necessary to her life-force.
When she becomes the prime suspect in a series of so-called ‘Bondage Murders’, Detective Todd Brooks is determined to take her down, despite the mind-boggling lust he feels toward her at first glance. Although Cara feels a strange pull toward the Detective, she has sworn off sex and won’t succumb to an attraction to the man who believes her a murderer.
But Cara’s subconscious as different ideas, and once she has taken an erotic dream-walk into Todd’s dreams, there is no way of stopping it, or him. But there is a serial killer on the loose, who is framing Cara, and to protect her, Todd will find himself drawn deeper into the other supernatural world than he could have ever dreamed existed.
It was nice to see a little more of Colin and Emily from Hotter After Midnight, along with the demon Niol, whose book I am still really looking forward to. I just hope he doesn’t use compulsion, intentionally or otherwise, to snare his mate.
Although it may not be reflected in my rating, unlike most readers I actually enjoyed this one more than the first book (Hotter After Midnight). I felt the characters were a little better developed in this one, and the insta-lust trope which featured again was at least better explained and therefore understandable. I also felt the suspense plot didn’t overshadow the romance.
Unfortunately, I must use the term romance very loosely, because the very reason for the insta-lust working is the reason that I had difficulty buying the romance. I’ve yet to read a succubus/incubus story that worked for me on the romance level, because the attraction is somewhat of a compulsion for both parties, not necessarily a choice.
I can appreciate a ‘fated mate’ storyline because often only the hero recognises the heroine as his mate, while the heroine takes some convincing. This allows the hero to woo the heroine and for her to fall in love more naturally and with some degree of choice (of course there are always exceptions to this, and those ones are less likely to work for me).
With a succubus/incubus storyline, the element of free-will is somewhat removed, with the seduction not requiring any effort - and that was probably my only issue with this book. If you don’t mind a succubus/incubus H/h, then you likely not have any of the concerns that I had with this one, because it is otherwise a great read.
Cynthia Eden once again creates a blend of genres – romance, suspense, paranormal, procedural, erotic – to craft a very entertaining world. Cara Maloan is a succubus who is attempting to swear off sex, using singing in a demon club to create the lust and seduction necessary to her life-force.
When she becomes the prime suspect in a series of so-called ‘Bondage Murders’, Detective Todd Brooks is determined to take her down, despite the mind-boggling lust he feels toward her at first glance. Although Cara feels a strange pull toward the Detective, she has sworn off sex and won’t succumb to an attraction to the man who believes her a murderer.
But Cara’s subconscious as different ideas, and once she has taken an erotic dream-walk into Todd’s dreams, there is no way of stopping it, or him. But there is a serial killer on the loose, who is framing Cara, and to protect her, Todd will find himself drawn deeper into the other supernatural world than he could have ever dreamed existed.
It was nice to see a little more of Colin and Emily from Hotter After Midnight, along with the demon Niol, whose book I am still really looking forward to. I just hope he doesn’t use compulsion, intentionally or otherwise, to snare his mate.
February 27, 2017
The premise of this book completely suckered me in. And book 1 was a great lead in to this world and characters. Yet, I'm still not sure where this all went kind of wrong for me. The writing is competent. The characters reasonably layered... but, there was something about the execution, the tale unfolding, the characters, that I found myself leaning away from. To the point I was just glad to finish the book and get it over an done with. Very weird.
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