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Dark Blood #1

Touched by the wolf

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How far would you go for immortality?

It has been a century since the wolves of the Silent Walkers waged war against the vampires of the Lamia for the Dark Blood of Immortality they possess.

As the battle lines are drawn once again, it will be up to the White Witch Emilie to use all in her power to bewitch the youngest of the wolves, Maccon.
To gain his trust.
To seduce him.
To bend him to her will.
To stop the impending war.

Touched by the Wolf is the debut novel of R. Murray and the first in the Dark Blood series.

158 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2017

12 people are currently reading
94 people want to read

About the author

R. Murray

7 books45 followers
I am a London born self confessed book addict now living on the shore of Auckland city.

Having spent most of my childhood and teen years dreaming up fanfictions based on my favourite tv shows, I have now decided to actually write my musings down.

A huge fan of anything fantasy and paranormal my writing style can be found to reflect these made up worlds. The love of creating a reality away from reality is the thrill I find every time I sit down to pen the latest scene in my books.

When I am not writing you can find me at my day job supervising dogs of all shapes and sizes at a dog day care in Auckland. A few of them actually being the inspiration behind some of the wolves in my paranormal series, due to epic characters.

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5 stars
21 (44%)
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19 (40%)
3 stars
6 (12%)
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1 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Adrianne.
224 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2017
description

I want more!
This story is addictive. I cannot wait to see what happens next. In this fantasy world France is ruled by a clan of centuries old original Vampires and England is the roaming land of Werewolves. In the middle of this supernatural world are two sisters, created by the vampires, immortal witches, who posses great powers . One of them wants an out, a life free from the Vampire rule, and a way to protect her greatest secret. The other sister gave her heart away to the darkness and is devoted to the Vampires’ agenda. The war is imminent and the gift of immortality is at stake.
I would recommend this story to anyone, who enjoys a fantasy world of magic and love.
Profile Image for Anna Edwards.
Author 93 books717 followers
August 31, 2017
Touched by the Wolf is the first book in the Dark Blood Series by debut author R Murray. It offers a different perspective on tales of Vampires and Werewolves with their eternal fight set against the backdrop of a battle between England and France. A conflict that makes for an interesting storyline to the reader.

The story is told from the point of few of several different characters. This worked well for the most part although there were times that I felt chapters were a little short and I wanted to know more about an individual and their feelings or thoughts. However, the main protagonists are well defined, especially Emilie and Melania.

The novella ends on a cliffhanger, I prefer books with them, so it was perfect for me. I was left intrigued as to what happens next, and I understand that the next book is out soon which is even better.

If you are a Vampire and Werewolf fan, I recommend you give this a go.
Profile Image for Sheena.
988 reviews26 followers
July 23, 2017
Fascinating…

This paranormal romance is a fascinating story of magical and mystical beings and the world they inhabit…Family is at the heart of this story there are forces for good and bad and when two opposing factions reignite an old conflict the scene is set for an emotional and thrilling journey of loss, betrayal, loyalty and love.

The author has created a complex world with a host of interesting and beguiling characters…at times I did find it challenging to remember all the players and their significance in this intricate alternative universe…there are so many strong and flawed individuals who, for the most part, are an intriguing combination of light and shade…several of the main characters take turns to tell their version of events….I do not always enjoy this storytelling device but on this occasion it worked well and provided a useful insight into their mindsets….

The author has an easy to read writing style but at times there were over long explanations which affected the pace of the story..I think this may have been improved with some more judicious editing…

I really loved the original storyline…there is a cliffhanger ending and I am looking forward to seeing where this fabulous plot leads next…I received a copy of this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
7 reviews
June 23, 2017
A great story, I feel it needs to be a bit longer with more details around the characters. I want to know more about them and so I am looking forward to the next book in the series to hopefully find out.
Profile Image for Shannon.
347 reviews5 followers
June 22, 2017
Full of suspense and intrigue this dark book had a mysterious feel to it and looks to be a good series.
Profile Image for Tammy.
185 reviews2 followers
June 26, 2017
Loved this book. Dark and full of intrigue. Can't wait for more. I want to know more about the characters.
Profile Image for Jenna.
76 reviews
June 26, 2017
LOVED IT!! Great fast paced read that had me on the edge of my seat. Mixture of personalities and supernatural characters, that leave you wanting more. Cant wait to see where this series takes us.
Profile Image for Stacey Broadbent.
Author 67 books250 followers
November 25, 2017
I haven't read a lot of paranormal books before, but I'm a sucker for a good cover, and this one certainly drew me in! And then, of course, the story sucked me in too.

It took me a little bit to wrap my head around who was who, and where they stood on everything, but once that started to sink in, I found it rather good. Emilie and Malaina are sisters, and witches. They both have the dark blood flowing through their veins, making them immortal. Emilie is the white witch, and tries to only use her powers for good, whereas Malaina prefers the darker side, even turning on her sister.
A pack of werewolves are heading up a revolt, wanting what the vampires have - immortality. But what they don't know, is that a vampire cannot turn a werewolf. Well, not just any vampire anyway.

There were some good plot twists, and an ending that leaves you wanting more. Aside from a few wee editing errors (which I know are being worked on) it was a good, original read. I liked that the author used bits of the real world and twisted them into something different. Definitely an author to watch.
Profile Image for Kel (Faerie-bookworm).
773 reviews62 followers
June 30, 2017
Title: Touched By The Wolf
Author: R. Murray
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Format: Ebook - ARC
Pages: 157
Rating: 4
Heat: 5

Thoughts: Ooooh, this was good. Vampires have immortality and can transfer it to witches but not werewolves. Yet the wolves believe that the vampires are just keeping it to themselves so there’s no love between the two species. This story has many twists and turns that keep you hooked until the very end. Warning, it’s a cliffhanger, but the perfect place to end the story. It left me baffled yet craving more. I love the uniqueness of it, it’s not just everyone lives forever or fated mates, or even just good versus evil. I’m still trying to figure out if the King of France, a vampire, is truly good or evil, like his brother seems to be. I look forward to the next book in the series!

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and chose to write a review.
43 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2017
I was given an ARC copy in exchange of an honest review, so here it is:
What I liked:
1. the world: the story takes place in France, during the reign of Louis XIV, but the thing is that the King is a vampire named Lorcan Lamia, posing as Louis. He has commissioned a group of witches to discover what his enemies, 3 English werewolves, are up to. One black witch and her sister, a white witch are given the task.
2. I liked the historical enmity between the French and the English being twisted in a battle between werewolves and vampires.

What I didn't liked:
1. the switching POVs: the POV kept changing between all characters in the cast and it kept me from connecting with the H and h. I prefer my books to be from one or two characters.
2. the story was slow to built up to the main plot. It's not a bad thing but, with the changing POVs, I was slow to be hooked in the telling.

With all that said, it was quite an enjoyable read that I would recommend.
Profile Image for Shelly Wygant.
1,328 reviews24 followers
July 9, 2017
Witches, Vampires and wolves oh my. This was an engaging story that pulls you in from the first page. With a battle between the wolves and the vampires on the way Emilie is sent to spy on the enemies an find out their plan. It goes well from the beginning but then the lines are blurred. This was a story that moved right along. There was always something happening. Secrets will be revealed, lies will be told, lives will be lost and in all the darkness love will be found and friends will become foes. It is a great paranormal read the is full of angst, mystery and twists. I loved each and every character -- the good and the evil. The epilogue was epic telling a story to come that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This story was good but you just know that the great is coming.

I voluntarily read a copy of this book for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
Profile Image for Cynthia Carpenter.
1,674 reviews15 followers
October 8, 2017
this book has it all Vampires ,werewolfs, and witches. the POV's in this books are amazing so many different things it makes you want more.
the Vampire's are in rule of France and are powerful and have what they want in terms of the good life. till its shattered by the werewolfs that show up.
the call upon Emilie to help figure out their plan. she is a dark witch that choose the side of healing and helping. Maccon is a werewolf sent there to help start a war.
when these too meet its instant attraction.
this book has so many things its amazing. Can't wait to read more of this series. the twist and turns keep you on the edge of your seat with anticipation you don't want it to end.. the scenes and characters are amazing and makes you feel like your right there with looking at.
Profile Image for Kelly Tucker.
13 reviews1 follower
June 29, 2017
I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review:

This book full of twist and turns really gripped me, i loved everything about it the mixture of witches wolves and vampires,

The characters are as usual good and bad and some following the line but trying to side on the good line.

I am rather excited already for book 2 if it is anything like the epilogue adding more twists into he storyline.

Amazing story line going and looking forward to the writer developing the story as the books go on.
Profile Image for Jill.
491 reviews
August 2, 2017
I loved this book. There were witches, werewolves, and vampires to help keep you entertained. Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger, which I normally hate but I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next in the series. I don't want to give away any spoilers but there are secrets in the vampire and witch world that are causing conflict. The werewolves are jumping to conclusions and starting wars. Its all kinds of yummy drama that you'll love if you're a fan of paranormal books. A definite must read!!!

Voluntarily Reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Sherry Haynes.
1,230 reviews16 followers
September 16, 2017
Gifted a copy. Writing a voluntary review

This is the debut of author R Murray and the first book in the series. While there were times I would have liked a bit more information, this plot was well written. I liked the different viewpoint on the war between werewolves and vampires that differs from most shifter books. It ends on a cliffhanger but the story was interesting enough to have me ready for book two.
Profile Image for Carrie Smith.
19 reviews9 followers
June 29, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this story between witches, vampires and wolves. Choosing sides of good and evil, especially when Emilie's sister is already on a side.

The past comes back to haunt her as everyone is trying to get what she gave up to protect.

I would love to read more about these characters and what becomes of them all.
Profile Image for Sue MacKenzie.
1,684 reviews15 followers
July 8, 2017
Enjoyably surprised

R Murray is a new author to me but one I will be definitely following from now on. This story held my attention from the start and rushing to see what the next page would bring. Can't wait until I can get my hands on the next one in the series. Thank you for sharing your imagination with us.
Profile Image for Gina Burkart.
3,563 reviews52 followers
August 24, 2017
I was able to read a ACR book by R Murray and I just love this book. It is very mysterious and and love the shift changers and the Vampire. Love the fact that u feel like u are right with the Characters and feel they actions. So ready for the second book.. I you haven't read this book give it a try before the second book comes out.. it is worth the book..
Profile Image for Gina Burkart.
3,563 reviews52 followers
August 24, 2017
I was able to read a ACR book by R Murray and I just love this book. It is very mysterious and and love the shift changers and the Vampire. Love the fact that u feel like u are right with the Characters and feel they actions. So ready for the second book.. I you haven't read this book give it a try before the second book comes out.. it is worth the book..
Profile Image for Sarah Stein.
Author 55 books518 followers
August 29, 2017
This is book one of the Dark Blood series. If you're into vampires and werewolves, then you'd enjoy this tale. I enjoyed reading the twist of werewolves seeking immortality. The way it ended definitely made me want to read the next book. I'm beyond interested in Emilie's daughter and what else she has to offer.
Profile Image for The Endless Unread.
3,419 reviews63 followers
September 12, 2017
Touched by the wolf (Dark Blood Series Book 1) by R Murray for me is a five star read

This is one of those books that was easy to read,

I liked the characters instantly and the storyline kept me interested. I love a good paranormal read where the woman are just as kick-ass as the men and this was certainly the case in this book! Have pre-ordered the next book!

Would highly recommend
373 reviews45 followers
March 11, 2018
This book is well written. Emilie is one of my favorite characters. She is full of love for Maccon. I know she never would have broken Maccon's heart but she had to. This book is full of suspense and keeps you wanting more.
Profile Image for Gloria.
298 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2017
Touched by the wolf

My first book ever of R Murray and I loved it! I'm a huge paranormal fan.... from werewolves, witches, and vampires oh my! If you love paranormal then this series is for you! I can't wait for book 2!!! I need to know what happens!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Knox.
Author 290 books3,415 followers
October 7, 2017
I was kept on the edge of my seat the entire time during this story. There were twist and turns around every corner, constantly keeping me interested every second. I HATED having to put this bad boy down when I had to go back to work. I can't wait for the next installment! ❤️
Profile Image for C Exley Books (Cassandra).
730 reviews82 followers
November 15, 2017
This is my first R Murray book and it won’t be my last. It is also her debut book. This is the first book in the Dark Blood series.

I loved this story, it has vampires, witches and werewolves but it’s done a bit different. Witch sisters, one light and one dark but both sisters have dark blood running through them which makes them immortal like vampires. Wolves who are searching for the blood to make them immortal. A vampire who is dead set on never letting it happen.

The story flows so well and the characters are so full of different personalities that you won’t want to put it down. I can’t wait to read the next book ‘Game of Faith. This is one that I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for Tyneshia.
283 reviews3 followers
July 9, 2017
I am so fussy with my paranormal books because sometimes it feels like your getting the same story but and its a big but Touched by the Wolf is so not the same old story. It is original, interseting and is packed with twists. I really enjoyed it.
This story is written in multiple POV's but it really works for this story and I felt it flowed really well. I very much look forward to reading more
Profile Image for  Tania.
755 reviews16 followers
July 13, 2017
I enjoyed this PNR as i dont normally read them.
In this book we have warewolfs, vampires and witches.
The book is based on a secret one of the witches has kept.
Both witches are dark blooded but one is seeking light.
Can she keep her lightness while going up against her sister?? Alot of questions were left unanswered and im sure we will get the anwers in book .
Profile Image for Laura Jackson.
175 reviews5 followers
July 17, 2017
I don't normally read books from the paranormal genre but read this one as part of a book group I wasn't sure what to expect but I did really enjoy it. There were some unexpected twists and it was written from multiple points of view (which I love). The story is well written and the 'evil' characters are the kind you'll love to hate!
Profile Image for Angela.
368 reviews
October 16, 2017
I am usually a fan of a Paranormal Romance but I guess you could say this was a little to Paranormal for me. Murray does an amazing job creating her world, but I feel as if the

Emile, a white witch, who desperately tries to run away from her past transgression but they have finally caught up to her. Thee leaders of the vampire world are yet again requesting her help to eliminate a threat to their power, this time it is the werewolf of England. Emile is to infiltrate their ranks by getting one of the wolves to fall in love with her but she has to make sure she does not loose her heart in return.

Maccon is a young werewolf who would like nothing more than to find a warm body to lay in bed with every night. The only thing that matters to him is his brothers and starting this war to free his kind in England, that is until the day he lays eyes on Emile. It was not love at first sight, but their is no denying the chemistry between these two. Will Maccon be able to keep his focus in order to create the revolutions his clan is waiting for, while also trying to keep his heart for falling for the one person that could be the downfall of his entire clan.

Murray creates an amazing world with her words that we can not help but fall into. Murray however does take detail to another level. In my opinion the book could have been shorter and possibly more enjoyable if everything was not described in such detail. Although this was a little more Paranormal than I would prefer I really enjoyed the story and cannot wait to discover what is next in the series.

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