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Kindling Flames #1
Gathering Tinder
After landing a job as assistant to a handsome CEO, Victoria Westernly feels like her life is finally on the right track. But when she discovers her new boss is the city's most powerful vampire, she'll have to decide whether her attraction to him is worth the risk…
The Kindling Flames Series is a paranormal romance saga with over 2,300 five-star reviews on Goodreads. Dive into a series filled with sexy vampires, werewolves, shifters, Fae folk, and more. Science fiction and urban fantasy romance lovers unite because this series has seven exciting books that readers have compared to other popular vampire romance novels such as: A Shade of Vampire Series by Bella Forest, the Immortals After Dark Series by Kresley Cole, The Sookie Stackhouse Novels (True Blood) by Charlaine Harris, The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer, The Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, and The Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward.
Disclosure: This book does end in a cliffhanger like most books in a series do. However, there are six novels already published in this series that can be binge read immediately after.
The Kindling Flames Series is a paranormal romance saga with over 2,300 five-star reviews on Goodreads. Dive into a series filled with sexy vampires, werewolves, shifters, Fae folk, and more. Science fiction and urban fantasy romance lovers unite because this series has seven exciting books that readers have compared to other popular vampire romance novels such as: A Shade of Vampire Series by Bella Forest, the Immortals After Dark Series by Kresley Cole, The Sookie Stackhouse Novels (True Blood) by Charlaine Harris, The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer, The Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, and The Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward.
Disclosure: This book does end in a cliffhanger like most books in a series do. However, there are six novels already published in this series that can be binge read immediately after.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2014
889 people are currently reading
3577 people want to read
About the author
Julie Wetzel
23 books522 followersOriginally from Ohio, Julie always dreamed of a job in science. Either shooting for the stars or delving into the mysteries of volcanoes. But, life never leads where you expect. In 2007, she moved to Mississippi to be with her significant other.
Now a mother of a hyperactive red headed boy, what time she’s not chasing down dirty socks and unsticking toys from the ceiling is spent crafting worlds readers can get lost it. Julie is a self-proclaimed bibliophile and lover of big words. She likes hiking, frogs, interesting earrings, and a plethora of other fun things.
Now a mother of a hyperactive red headed boy, what time she’s not chasing down dirty socks and unsticking toys from the ceiling is spent crafting worlds readers can get lost it. Julie is a self-proclaimed bibliophile and lover of big words. She likes hiking, frogs, interesting earrings, and a plethora of other fun things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
June 7, 2016
I have to say I was not the biggest fan of this book when I first started it. The writing style was a bit hard to get past, and I felt almost like I was reading a twilight fanfiction. I also didn't care for the main characters at the beginning. However the more I read, the more the book grew on me, and while I didn't intend to continue with the next book, I feel like I will now give it a shot. The storyline developed quite a bit towards the end of the book, and the characters became much more likable. I really enjoyed all of the extra characters that were introduced later on as well. I also liked the chemistry that started to forming between Vicky and Darien. The fact that the book didn't jump into an instalove situation also was a plus in my book. I thought it was going in that direction, but luckily I was proven wrong. The ending was unexpected, and now I'm definitely curious to see what happens next. A few other issues I had with the book that I didn't mean before would be the way it is made to seem that Darien owns Vicky, and he is her "master". That's a little weird for my liking, and I could do without it. I also think some of the things that happened in the story came out of left field, and I wasn't sure to make of it. Overall, I did like the book and plan to read the next one to see where the story goes.
**I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review**
**I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review**
September 26, 2014
Surprisingly good.
I found this book free on Smashwords and thought I'd give it a go and I'm so glad I did.
Darien Ritter maybe the CEO and owner of a multimillion dollar company but he's also a very old and powerful vampire but he's suffering the very human issue of finding a good efficient personal assistant, he was very happy with the one he had but she happened to get pregnant and with triplets no less and is laid up in bed, the inconvenience it's causing him. His own personnel office has offered up six candidates and the forth from the agency is waiting, how difficult can it be to get someone who can do their job well. And this is how Victoria Westernly enters the life of Darien Ritter, she surprises him at every turn and he wonders how he ever managed without her.
While Darien and Victoria get to know each other, over on the south side of town murders are taking place, fires are raging and people are going missing.
This was a surprisingly interesting read, if I'm being honest I only intended to skim the first few pages to see it was something I'd read in the future but once I'd started I just couldn't stop, I was hooked. The characters are great, not just Darien and Vicky but the supporting ones as well and I loved the story.
The only thing I really had an issue with was the 'city burning pictures' at the start of each chapter they looked cheap, awful and outdated in fact if it wasn't for the fact that I was completely hooked by the time I reached chapter two I'd have stopped reading. I'd hoped that the one for the prologue and the one for chapter one would be it, I still can't believe that such a good book has those tacky pictures at each chapter, I've got my fingers crossed that they're not in the next book, maybe they looked worse because I read this on my iPad and not my kindle so they were bigger, I don't know but they annoyed the hell out of me.
Why 4 stars and not 5, firstly the 'pictures' and secondly the unannounced cliffhanger.
Straight onto the next book for me....
Or not as I've just found out, I noticed reviews on Goodreads so assumed it was available but it's not out in ebook form until 3rd October the paperback release was 19th September.
I found this book free on Smashwords and thought I'd give it a go and I'm so glad I did.
Darien Ritter maybe the CEO and owner of a multimillion dollar company but he's also a very old and powerful vampire but he's suffering the very human issue of finding a good efficient personal assistant, he was very happy with the one he had but she happened to get pregnant and with triplets no less and is laid up in bed, the inconvenience it's causing him. His own personnel office has offered up six candidates and the forth from the agency is waiting, how difficult can it be to get someone who can do their job well. And this is how Victoria Westernly enters the life of Darien Ritter, she surprises him at every turn and he wonders how he ever managed without her.
While Darien and Victoria get to know each other, over on the south side of town murders are taking place, fires are raging and people are going missing.
This was a surprisingly interesting read, if I'm being honest I only intended to skim the first few pages to see it was something I'd read in the future but once I'd started I just couldn't stop, I was hooked. The characters are great, not just Darien and Vicky but the supporting ones as well and I loved the story.
The only thing I really had an issue with was the 'city burning pictures' at the start of each chapter they looked cheap, awful and outdated in fact if it wasn't for the fact that I was completely hooked by the time I reached chapter two I'd have stopped reading. I'd hoped that the one for the prologue and the one for chapter one would be it, I still can't believe that such a good book has those tacky pictures at each chapter, I've got my fingers crossed that they're not in the next book, maybe they looked worse because I read this on my iPad and not my kindle so they were bigger, I don't know but they annoyed the hell out of me.
Why 4 stars and not 5, firstly the 'pictures' and secondly the unannounced cliffhanger.
Straight onto the next book for me....
Or not as I've just found out, I noticed reviews on Goodreads so assumed it was available but it's not out in ebook form until 3rd October the paperback release was 19th September.
April 2, 2016
We follow Vicky through her odd PA position to an ancient vampire unbeknownst to her. A mystery is opened up with arson that disintegrates supernatural beings into palm sized chunks. We get hints of other supernatural beings out there, but mainly, this is a story about a dim witted girl at the beck and call of her boss who likes fancy cars and clementines. At first, I thought this was going to be a trashy paranormal romance involving a multi-billionaire vampire, but so far that was not the case in the slightest. Uhm - major cliff hanger ending with no resolution of any point of the book
Here's what kept it from a higher rating: No resolution of any kind to ANYTHING. The writing comes off as childish. There is no world building, no character building. I mean, the lady had her throat crushed and then her vocal chords snapped back into place and she's all like "Oh, no big deal, Mr. Ritter." She find out her boss is a 900 year old vampire and she's like "You should get changed, Mr. Ritter." and he's like "You're thoughtful." As far as plot is concerned, there are arsonists. They seem to have a target, or not going off of a phone conversation the chick has with one of her friends. Couldn't tell you. It was all about clementines, fixing ties, and spreadsheets. Something almost happened, but the book ended abruptly. This shows poor skill in my opinion; not even the cliff hanger was done well.
Here's what kept it from a lower rating: Looks like it was edited. Honestly, it made me laugh at the ridiculousness of the story building.
Here's what kept it from a higher rating: No resolution of any kind to ANYTHING. The writing comes off as childish. There is no world building, no character building. I mean, the lady had her throat crushed and then her vocal chords snapped back into place and she's all like "Oh, no big deal, Mr. Ritter." She find out her boss is a 900 year old vampire and she's like "You should get changed, Mr. Ritter." and he's like "You're thoughtful." As far as plot is concerned, there are arsonists. They seem to have a target, or not going off of a phone conversation the chick has with one of her friends. Couldn't tell you. It was all about clementines, fixing ties, and spreadsheets. Something almost happened, but the book ended abruptly. This shows poor skill in my opinion; not even the cliff hanger was done well.
Here's what kept it from a lower rating: Looks like it was edited. Honestly, it made me laugh at the ridiculousness of the story building.
July 16, 2015
This started out very ordinary and although it does pan out as a stereotyped paranormal romance, it does include a dose of mystery, and this lifts it out of some of the expected pitfalls of the standard romance novel.
The characters are generally likable and the novel is all up a good light paranormal romance read. Sexy vamps included.
( Paranormal lovers join me at: https://www.facebook.com/ParanormalBookFest )
The characters are generally likable and the novel is all up a good light paranormal romance read. Sexy vamps included.
( Paranormal lovers join me at: https://www.facebook.com/ParanormalBookFest )
January 10, 2015
Vicky Westernly is hired as a temp to be the personal assistant for Darien Ritter, who it turns out is a master vampire (what a master vampire is isn't explained in the book, unless I just missed it, but I'm guessing it just means he's super old). She handles his human life, which is contained in a messenger bag that she must carry around with her everywhere. She eventually comes to discover that not only is he a vampire, but that there also exists werewolves and fairies (though she's not privy to that info yet, just the reader is).
She takes the news surprisingly well. I mean that in the sense that she should have been a bit more surprised. But interestingly, that didn't bother me. It is established in the book that in addition to being a master vampire, Darien is also something of a mystery to people within the vampire community, and as such hold him in high esteem. So when Vicky finds out and continues her banter with Darien as though teasing her much-liked boss instead of a 900 year old vampire, and the others in the coven (or whatever) of vampires are shocked, it's actually quite cute.
I really enjoyed the pacing of the relationship between Vicky and Darien. There is no insta-love or insta-attraction. There's not a whole lot of Mary Sue-ing going on and Darien is not "ohmygod the most handsome man in existence ever!" so the establishment of the relationship from boss-employee to something more on the spectrum of friendship and maybe even romance is quite refreshing.
There are some problems with the story. First of all there is a plot line about a string of arson-related deaths that feels pushed to the side in order to establish a relationship with Darien and Vicky. At one point it is revealed that Vicky knows some of the victims, but she never really expresses any sort of loss for those people, and we never hear about them again. I think what the author tried to do is establish a link between the vampire Darien, the house fires, the supernatural community and Vicky, but it's very weak and could use some work.
Writing is a bit of an issue in the book. While the storytelling is fine, a lot of the writing comes off as stiff. There's a lot of referring to characters by their first and/or last name, even when it's the same two people in the room. The author could do with a few replacements of "Vicky did this" or "Darien did that" with "she did this" and "he did that". It gets a bit bulky to read the same names over and over again when there are only two people in the scene.
The moments of tension need to be worked on. I didn't even know I had come to the end of the book until it was over, which left me with an unsatisfying feeling (that and the fact that the sequel is nearly $6). And yet I still really want to read the second book. Other moments of tension throughout the story could use some work to really amp up the thrill factor. But you know... it doesn't bother me so much because there are some moments in the book that are absolute gems to read and make up for any shortcomings.
I think what it comes down to for me is that I have so enjoyed the story and the way the characters interact with each other that I can forgive the things that I didn't like as much. I love the slow burn relationship building with Vicky and Darien, and am very invested in seeing that continue through the rest of the series. It's hard to do justice to that kind of relationship building, but the author does a find job here.
Also the book is clean. There's enough sexiness in it to be appropriate and make you want more, but it is never vulgar or crass. It's quite classy. I think you should definitely read this book. It's pretty good even though it's a vampire story (not as much into those and I think their time in the literary sun has somewhat passed - though we all know their popularity will circle back eventually). And I think it's worth investing the time and money into.
She takes the news surprisingly well. I mean that in the sense that she should have been a bit more surprised. But interestingly, that didn't bother me. It is established in the book that in addition to being a master vampire, Darien is also something of a mystery to people within the vampire community, and as such hold him in high esteem. So when Vicky finds out and continues her banter with Darien as though teasing her much-liked boss instead of a 900 year old vampire, and the others in the coven (or whatever) of vampires are shocked, it's actually quite cute.
I really enjoyed the pacing of the relationship between Vicky and Darien. There is no insta-love or insta-attraction. There's not a whole lot of Mary Sue-ing going on and Darien is not "ohmygod the most handsome man in existence ever!" so the establishment of the relationship from boss-employee to something more on the spectrum of friendship and maybe even romance is quite refreshing.
There are some problems with the story. First of all there is a plot line about a string of arson-related deaths that feels pushed to the side in order to establish a relationship with Darien and Vicky. At one point it is revealed that Vicky knows some of the victims, but she never really expresses any sort of loss for those people, and we never hear about them again. I think what the author tried to do is establish a link between the vampire Darien, the house fires, the supernatural community and Vicky, but it's very weak and could use some work.
Writing is a bit of an issue in the book. While the storytelling is fine, a lot of the writing comes off as stiff. There's a lot of referring to characters by their first and/or last name, even when it's the same two people in the room. The author could do with a few replacements of "Vicky did this" or "Darien did that" with "she did this" and "he did that". It gets a bit bulky to read the same names over and over again when there are only two people in the scene.
The moments of tension need to be worked on. I didn't even know I had come to the end of the book until it was over, which left me with an unsatisfying feeling (that and the fact that the sequel is nearly $6). And yet I still really want to read the second book. Other moments of tension throughout the story could use some work to really amp up the thrill factor. But you know... it doesn't bother me so much because there are some moments in the book that are absolute gems to read and make up for any shortcomings.
I think what it comes down to for me is that I have so enjoyed the story and the way the characters interact with each other that I can forgive the things that I didn't like as much. I love the slow burn relationship building with Vicky and Darien, and am very invested in seeing that continue through the rest of the series. It's hard to do justice to that kind of relationship building, but the author does a find job here.
Also the book is clean. There's enough sexiness in it to be appropriate and make you want more, but it is never vulgar or crass. It's quite classy. I think you should definitely read this book. It's pretty good even though it's a vampire story (not as much into those and I think their time in the literary sun has somewhat passed - though we all know their popularity will circle back eventually). And I think it's worth investing the time and money into.
March 16, 2017
I had a hankering for a paranormal book. I looked through the books on my kindle and saw this one I must have picked up free at some point and decided to give it a go. Vampires, werewolves? Check, check. I enjoyed the story here but I wouldn't classify it as a "clean" read. It is slow moving with a gradual build up that doesn't see any fruition by the end. I guess that means things must happen in the next book? I'm not sure I'm going to continue on though. This one may be just over my line of comfort- especially if things go where I think they going.
Content: swearing, alcohol use and bar scenes with sexual overtones, innuendo, violence, attempted rape, a scene with a group of people bathing together.
Content: swearing, alcohol use and bar scenes with sexual overtones, innuendo, violence, attempted rape, a scene with a group of people bathing together.
August 18, 2014
This book is fantastic. The characters behave realistically. The writing is entertaining. The story will draw you in so that you might look up and realize it's 2 AM and you still can't put the book down.
Julie is going to be one of the future's favorite authors, and I'm her biggest fan.
Julie is going to be one of the future's favorite authors, and I'm her biggest fan.
maybe
April 2, 2016Free on Amazon.co.uk at the time of posting.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kindling-Flam...
December 6, 2014
I picked up Gathering Tinder as a kindle freebie a while back drawn to the cover I didn’t read the synopsis till I picked it up this week. Darien is in need of a personal assistant to handle his life now that his former assistant is out on bed rest. 9 temps later Vicky (Victoria) shows up desperate for the job because if it doesn’t work out she will have to hit the plasma bank in order to pay her rent. Vicky quickly learns that the job is more than just your typical 9 to 5 job as she’s on call should he need her at any time.
The body count in piling up and not all the victims are human when the alpha werewolf confronts Darien asking for his help he needs to bring the subject to the council. When a routine trips ends with Darien making a visit to the council he’s forced to bring Vicky into his world. Suddenly Vicky is being watched by not only Darien but the wolves and other vampires are watching her. While danger looms nearby will Darien solve the murders before Vicky is caught in the crossfires?
I liked Vicky she is willing to do what it takes to survive even if it means working for a vampire. She accepts that Darien is a 900 year old vampire give or take a few years, and even knowing that he could drink her dry she still trusts him with her life. I like the potential relationship idea between the two and hope the next novel gives us a little more.
Gathering Tinder is a combo of vampire romance and suspenseful thriller creating an intriguing story. The author takes the vampire idea and sticks pretty true aside from the fact that Darien is over 900 and the sun is bearable to him as well as munching on human food. He’s a good guy who would be prefect for Vicky but since this book is the first in a series it’s a little a lacking in the romance, however I have high hopes for the next one. I like the concept for the vampires having a council as well as the werewolves and the fae being mixed in the story. The characters are easy to connect with you can’t help rooting for Vicky she’s so darn sweet. I do plan to continue the series I want to see how it’s going to play out since this one was a cliffhanger.
The body count in piling up and not all the victims are human when the alpha werewolf confronts Darien asking for his help he needs to bring the subject to the council. When a routine trips ends with Darien making a visit to the council he’s forced to bring Vicky into his world. Suddenly Vicky is being watched by not only Darien but the wolves and other vampires are watching her. While danger looms nearby will Darien solve the murders before Vicky is caught in the crossfires?
I liked Vicky she is willing to do what it takes to survive even if it means working for a vampire. She accepts that Darien is a 900 year old vampire give or take a few years, and even knowing that he could drink her dry she still trusts him with her life. I like the potential relationship idea between the two and hope the next novel gives us a little more.
Gathering Tinder is a combo of vampire romance and suspenseful thriller creating an intriguing story. The author takes the vampire idea and sticks pretty true aside from the fact that Darien is over 900 and the sun is bearable to him as well as munching on human food. He’s a good guy who would be prefect for Vicky but since this book is the first in a series it’s a little a lacking in the romance, however I have high hopes for the next one. I like the concept for the vampires having a council as well as the werewolves and the fae being mixed in the story. The characters are easy to connect with you can’t help rooting for Vicky she’s so darn sweet. I do plan to continue the series I want to see how it’s going to play out since this one was a cliffhanger.
June 10, 2016
I loved these so dang much.
I thought I was over the vampire romance phase of my reading life. I was wrong.
Worst description in the world: Twilight meets Fifty Shades of Grey, remove awful abusive bdsm relation and teenage angst, this adorable little series emerges.
We meet Vicki Westernly as she is fresh out of college and gets hired on as a PA for Mr. Sexy McRichVampirePants. Typical romancey type feelings start to form between them but this book was just so addicting to read that I loved all aspects surrounding it. I liked the constantly changing perspectives without it being first person so you get a well rounded view of all characters thoughts and histories. I also really liked the fun facts about all the paranormal aspects of this world. I always love reading the rules and dynamics established in each paranormal world, this one was actually quite believable and understandable. I think those facts were scattered throughout the story well enough to develop the world thoroughly without taking away from the plot.
While this is very much a guilty pleasure, candy type of read for me, I loved it. I didn't expect to binge read through the first two books but that just kind of happened. Would highly recommend!
*I was sent copies of these books to read and review through LovingDemBooks Booktube Tours, that in no what affects my opinions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I thought I was over the vampire romance phase of my reading life. I was wrong.
Worst description in the world: Twilight meets Fifty Shades of Grey, remove awful abusive bdsm relation and teenage angst, this adorable little series emerges.
We meet Vicki Westernly as she is fresh out of college and gets hired on as a PA for Mr. Sexy McRichVampirePants. Typical romancey type feelings start to form between them but this book was just so addicting to read that I loved all aspects surrounding it. I liked the constantly changing perspectives without it being first person so you get a well rounded view of all characters thoughts and histories. I also really liked the fun facts about all the paranormal aspects of this world. I always love reading the rules and dynamics established in each paranormal world, this one was actually quite believable and understandable. I think those facts were scattered throughout the story well enough to develop the world thoroughly without taking away from the plot.
While this is very much a guilty pleasure, candy type of read for me, I loved it. I didn't expect to binge read through the first two books but that just kind of happened. Would highly recommend!
*I was sent copies of these books to read and review through LovingDemBooks Booktube Tours, that in no what affects my opinions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
June 18, 2017
Ugh. Super dumb heroine. DNF at 56%
freebie-to-read
July 4, 2017
February 19, 2016
Ok, odd little book. Not a masterpiece in any sense of the word, but still weirdly enjoyable! There are several things I didn't like or thought weren't very well done, yet I'm disposed to forgive them on account that, again, it was still an enjoyable book!
Both main characters are pretty under-developped, but I still enjoy their personalities so far. Vicky is determined, resourceful and strong. Any woman who can get her shit together and greet politely and calmly a werewolf who tried to kill her when she last saw him gets my total respect. Darien was a bit over the top with a case of too-perfect-male-hero, but I like his eccentric side and especially his childish side, prone to gush over classic cars and show off by eating just because he can. It was cute :) The interactions between two likeable characters were, not surprisingly, great to read and the main attraction of the book, without which it reaaally would have showed its flaws.
And it did have flaws.
1- Spelling and grammar mistakes. I spotted a few, one of them a "then" that should have been a "than". Which, seriously? Was the editor sleeping on the job?
2- As I said the main characters weren't very much developped, but that's still a lot more than any of the others had. Not one side character was developped the least bit. We learned only the bare minimum about their personalities, and for a lot of them we only got their names.
3- Weirdness. Several things in the book were not illogical per say, but just kind of bizarre. For example, at THREE different occasions in this book Darien brings a drunk Vicky home and tucks her in. Three times in such a short book, and mind you she's not an alchoolic or even a party girl, she's portrayed as a very reasonable, responsable woman. Odd.
4- The book feels quite a bit indulgent. Some stuff in this book should NOT be in there and I get the distinct feeling it's been put there anyway not t0 benefit to the story, but because the author wanted to indulge her own likes or fantasies.
Exhibit A: Darien takes her to a fancy Japanese restaurant once. Everything fine so far. But she's underdressed for the occasion so when he realizes that, on the fly takes her to a store next door and buys her a full silk kimono with all the underclothing and accessories. And he orders in fluent Japanese. Ooookay. It seemed really odd to me that they would be able to find so easily and at that hour a shop selling such a specialized and fancy item like an authentic silk kimono in America. It also seemed odd one would even wear such a thing to a restaurant in America even a fancy one. I would think dress and tie would be the obvious attire. It seems odd AGAIN that not only can Darien speak fluent Japanese, he would use it in a restaurant in America, even a Japanese restaurant. My first language is French and I wouldn't order in French in America even in a French restaurant. I wouldn't assume that just because it's French cuisine that means French people own it, and even if I happened to know French people owned it I wouldn't expect the poor waiter to have to be fluent to be able to work there. I can only assume the author loves Japanese culture and her dream date probably includes ramen and a man buying her a kimono like some sort of Japanese version of a Cinderella fantasy, and that this is why this scene is in there instead of one that makes more sense.
Exhibit B: The love of Japanese culture strikes again when Vicky visit the vampire mansion and is immediately herded into an onsen. Yes, a volcanic hot spring complete with traditional bamboo interior inside this old mansion in "nowhere, America" as Vicky puts it. This reminded me much of the little onsen arc in the manga Fruits Basket, only it made sense in Fruits Basket. I can only assume the author has read the same mangas as me and liked the idea of having her own onsen scene more than she liked having logic in her book.
Exhibit C: As I mentioned earlier the male hero Darien is a bit too perfect and his character feels like the author is indulging a personal fantasy. Darien is a millionaire CEO, a vampire considered abnormally powerful even to his own kind, a business man who seems to have a hand in every local business from the club Alchemy that Vicky likes to the little roofing company, has a collection of classic cars, speaks several languages and originally sports an Irish accent, is influential to the point of having several people to look out for Vicky pretty much wherever she happens to be, is physically drop dead gorgeous but that's to be expected at that point, and the list goes on. I woud have much preferred a couple flaws in there to make him seem like a real character, not a wet dream turned book character.
And despite all that I still enjoyed the book and will buy the next one on Kindle. So who's crazy now?
Both main characters are pretty under-developped, but I still enjoy their personalities so far. Vicky is determined, resourceful and strong. Any woman who can get her shit together and greet politely and calmly a werewolf who tried to kill her when she last saw him gets my total respect. Darien was a bit over the top with a case of too-perfect-male-hero, but I like his eccentric side and especially his childish side, prone to gush over classic cars and show off by eating just because he can. It was cute :) The interactions between two likeable characters were, not surprisingly, great to read and the main attraction of the book, without which it reaaally would have showed its flaws.
And it did have flaws.
1- Spelling and grammar mistakes. I spotted a few, one of them a "then" that should have been a "than". Which, seriously? Was the editor sleeping on the job?
2- As I said the main characters weren't very much developped, but that's still a lot more than any of the others had. Not one side character was developped the least bit. We learned only the bare minimum about their personalities, and for a lot of them we only got their names.
3- Weirdness. Several things in the book were not illogical per say, but just kind of bizarre. For example, at THREE different occasions in this book Darien brings a drunk Vicky home and tucks her in. Three times in such a short book, and mind you she's not an alchoolic or even a party girl, she's portrayed as a very reasonable, responsable woman. Odd.
4- The book feels quite a bit indulgent. Some stuff in this book should NOT be in there and I get the distinct feeling it's been put there anyway not t0 benefit to the story, but because the author wanted to indulge her own likes or fantasies.
Exhibit A: Darien takes her to a fancy Japanese restaurant once. Everything fine so far. But she's underdressed for the occasion so when he realizes that, on the fly takes her to a store next door and buys her a full silk kimono with all the underclothing and accessories. And he orders in fluent Japanese. Ooookay. It seemed really odd to me that they would be able to find so easily and at that hour a shop selling such a specialized and fancy item like an authentic silk kimono in America. It also seemed odd one would even wear such a thing to a restaurant in America even a fancy one. I would think dress and tie would be the obvious attire. It seems odd AGAIN that not only can Darien speak fluent Japanese, he would use it in a restaurant in America, even a Japanese restaurant. My first language is French and I wouldn't order in French in America even in a French restaurant. I wouldn't assume that just because it's French cuisine that means French people own it, and even if I happened to know French people owned it I wouldn't expect the poor waiter to have to be fluent to be able to work there. I can only assume the author loves Japanese culture and her dream date probably includes ramen and a man buying her a kimono like some sort of Japanese version of a Cinderella fantasy, and that this is why this scene is in there instead of one that makes more sense.
Exhibit B: The love of Japanese culture strikes again when Vicky visit the vampire mansion and is immediately herded into an onsen. Yes, a volcanic hot spring complete with traditional bamboo interior inside this old mansion in "nowhere, America" as Vicky puts it. This reminded me much of the little onsen arc in the manga Fruits Basket, only it made sense in Fruits Basket. I can only assume the author has read the same mangas as me and liked the idea of having her own onsen scene more than she liked having logic in her book.
Exhibit C: As I mentioned earlier the male hero Darien is a bit too perfect and his character feels like the author is indulging a personal fantasy. Darien is a millionaire CEO, a vampire considered abnormally powerful even to his own kind, a business man who seems to have a hand in every local business from the club Alchemy that Vicky likes to the little roofing company, has a collection of classic cars, speaks several languages and originally sports an Irish accent, is influential to the point of having several people to look out for Vicky pretty much wherever she happens to be, is physically drop dead gorgeous but that's to be expected at that point, and the list goes on. I woud have much preferred a couple flaws in there to make him seem like a real character, not a wet dream turned book character.
And despite all that I still enjoyed the book and will buy the next one on Kindle. So who's crazy now?
March 4, 2017
I started this book because it sounded like a fanfiction of twilight I had read a long time ago. So I spent the majority of the story trying to figure out if it was that story. I still don't know. This book ends on a cliffhanger if that kind of thing bothers you.
October 25, 2015
Interesting yet rather dull boring and dry all at the same time....
1st off I know this story is supposed to be a romance and that there at least 3 more parts to it, but these two had 0 chemistry with other and only a polite interest in each other.... I know at some point they must become lovers because by book 4 their supposedly planning a wedding but they only interest Darien ever showed in her was for her blood not even the slightest bit in sex most times he never even seemed to know what she was wearing except when she was in pain or hurting otherwise he didn't seem to really notice her body at all and though she admitted he was handsome and sexy ,"he's my boss" seemed to keep her from even beginning to think of him as anything more.... Honestly 900 years old or not, at the moment Vicky being his long lost sister almost makes more sense than her EVER being his lover or wife, on a scale of 1 to 10 on any kinda heat or sexual interest between them,I'd personally give them some where between a 0 - 1 or 1 1/2 ..... The story was interesting but soooo NOT a romance... Like I said I know there's more to come and why the mystery of the killings and fires is moving along nicely the almost total lack of interest and 0 sexual chemistry leaves NO set up for a believe able romance between Vicky and Darien....
But I'm too curious to not try the next book....
1st off I know this story is supposed to be a romance and that there at least 3 more parts to it, but these two had 0 chemistry with other and only a polite interest in each other.... I know at some point they must become lovers because by book 4 their supposedly planning a wedding but they only interest Darien ever showed in her was for her blood not even the slightest bit in sex most times he never even seemed to know what she was wearing except when she was in pain or hurting otherwise he didn't seem to really notice her body at all and though she admitted he was handsome and sexy ,"he's my boss" seemed to keep her from even beginning to think of him as anything more.... Honestly 900 years old or not, at the moment Vicky being his long lost sister almost makes more sense than her EVER being his lover or wife, on a scale of 1 to 10 on any kinda heat or sexual interest between them,I'd personally give them some where between a 0 - 1 or 1 1/2 ..... The story was interesting but soooo NOT a romance... Like I said I know there's more to come and why the mystery of the killings and fires is moving along nicely the almost total lack of interest and 0 sexual chemistry leaves NO set up for a believe able romance between Vicky and Darien....
But I'm too curious to not try the next book....
September 19, 2014
Kindling Flames: Gathering Tinder is the debut offering from an author that I hope has a plethora of books left in her. The first book in the Ancient Fire series sets the scene for many good things to come (as well as leaving you rather a desperate craving to get your hands on part 2.
Strong characters, both human and vampires, and a smoldering romance that you KNOW is heading to all the right places, make this book difficult to put down and honestly I didn't even try to.
The older style vampire rules that are often overlooked in many of today's stories (I know - I read a lot of them) is very clear here and for me set it apart from a lot of the new vampire stories out there.
I would definitely recommend it! V""V
Strong characters, both human and vampires, and a smoldering romance that you KNOW is heading to all the right places, make this book difficult to put down and honestly I didn't even try to.
The older style vampire rules that are often overlooked in many of today's stories (I know - I read a lot of them) is very clear here and for me set it apart from a lot of the new vampire stories out there.
I would definitely recommend it! V""V
April 4, 2016
THIS BOOK ENDS IN A CLIFFHANGER!!!!
I'm hooked!!
Part one of this series is actually quiet a gentle read!!! Nothing earth shattering, just good old fashioned scene setting and character introductions.
This book was free on Amazon, so who am I to say no to a freeby???!!!
I wasn't going to buy part 2 but now I will!!
I'm hooked!!
Part one of this series is actually quiet a gentle read!!! Nothing earth shattering, just good old fashioned scene setting and character introductions.
This book was free on Amazon, so who am I to say no to a freeby???!!!
I wasn't going to buy part 2 but now I will!!
April 12, 2016
ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!
you're going to absolutely fall in love with her wonderful characters and their struggles finding out the who and whys of what causing everyone's being targeted. So check out because it'll be a favorite series for your own library,so you can read again and enjoy it all again.
you're going to absolutely fall in love with her wonderful characters and their struggles finding out the who and whys of what causing everyone's being targeted. So check out because it'll be a favorite series for your own library,so you can read again and enjoy it all again.
September 5, 2014
I've always loved a good vampire story, and this one ranks up there as a favorite. Darien Ritter is one yummy master vampire, and Vicky is nothing if not his equal. The chemistry between them is fantastic. I can't wait to sink my teeth into book #2...
July 11, 2017
Darien is a 900 year old vampire and Vicky is his extremely tolerant temp who seems on her way to being his permanent secretary. I have no idea where they actually live but it seems to be home to the most friendliest supernatural creatures and their walking buffets.
I rolled my eyes so many times when I started reading this novel and even thought of stopping when I was 5% in. I literally started looking for other novels but I held on, probably because I got it free on Amazon, but now that I am finished, I can't wait to start the next one!
It is super corny with many a ridiculous scenarios but I eventually got over all the quirks, especially because the characters themselves point out the silliness and it's paranormal fiction so I believe you get even more wiggle room to make shit up and believe me, the author made up some crazy shit!
Vicky is ditsy but then who isn't in this novel? Darien is also quite playful so I don't fully understand the fear that he puts in every one.
I am excited to learn more about these characters and I like that we are spending time to build relationships. There is no hot vamp sex. Almost everyone's POV is shared, sometimes literally in the middle of another's inner monologue, but despite all this, I am glad I stuck with it. This story isn't for every one but I like it. It's exactly what I need right now.
I rolled my eyes so many times when I started reading this novel and even thought of stopping when I was 5% in. I literally started looking for other novels but I held on, probably because I got it free on Amazon, but now that I am finished, I can't wait to start the next one!
It is super corny with many a ridiculous scenarios but I eventually got over all the quirks, especially because the characters themselves point out the silliness and it's paranormal fiction so I believe you get even more wiggle room to make shit up and believe me, the author made up some crazy shit!
Vicky is ditsy but then who isn't in this novel? Darien is also quite playful so I don't fully understand the fear that he puts in every one.
I am excited to learn more about these characters and I like that we are spending time to build relationships. There is no hot vamp sex. Almost everyone's POV is shared, sometimes literally in the middle of another's inner monologue, but despite all this, I am glad I stuck with it. This story isn't for every one but I like it. It's exactly what I need right now.
Want to read
August 13, 2017Amazon Freebie 7/8/17
December 15, 2017
This is sweet little read that picks in intensity as the story progresses.
Darien is rich, sexy and in need of a new PA.
Victoria is desperate for work and quite innocent.
Worlds collide and friendships are formed.
I get the strong impression that book 1 does a fair amount of world building.
The ending is a cliff hanger and enough to entice me into book 2.
November 10, 2014
REVIEWER: ABHA
3.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
Kindling Flames: Gathering Tinder, the first book in the Ancient Fire series, is a paranormal romance. The story of Darien and Victoria. She's a new college graduate, and impresses him, the CEO of a multimillion dollar company, enough at her interview that she is offered the job as his personal assistant. There are elements of mystery as well, a series of unexplained deaths and arson.
Vicky is a likable character but I find that she is very contradictory. That doesn’t take away from the story per se but it definitely makes the plot and sequence of events less believable. Now remember vampires and werewolves already ask for you to use your imagination, so I have to keep that in mind! I did really like Darien’s character, a vampire, and likely the oldest in the area at 900 years old. It's apparent the two have a lot of chemistry between them, and it's going to be interesting to see how their relationship evolves. I wasn’t impressed with the storyline since it was predictable and didn’t really expect to want to continue with the other books however, a few days after reading this first book I find myself wondering what happens next. For that alone I will give this book 3 stars.
So, while this book does end in a cliffhanger, it was a good start. I sure hope Vicky can be a little more real and her character develops into a stronger one.
3.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
Kindling Flames: Gathering Tinder, the first book in the Ancient Fire series, is a paranormal romance. The story of Darien and Victoria. She's a new college graduate, and impresses him, the CEO of a multimillion dollar company, enough at her interview that she is offered the job as his personal assistant. There are elements of mystery as well, a series of unexplained deaths and arson.
Vicky is a likable character but I find that she is very contradictory. That doesn’t take away from the story per se but it definitely makes the plot and sequence of events less believable. Now remember vampires and werewolves already ask for you to use your imagination, so I have to keep that in mind! I did really like Darien’s character, a vampire, and likely the oldest in the area at 900 years old. It's apparent the two have a lot of chemistry between them, and it's going to be interesting to see how their relationship evolves. I wasn’t impressed with the storyline since it was predictable and didn’t really expect to want to continue with the other books however, a few days after reading this first book I find myself wondering what happens next. For that alone I will give this book 3 stars.
So, while this book does end in a cliffhanger, it was a good start. I sure hope Vicky can be a little more real and her character develops into a stronger one.
February 14, 2017
I'm surprised that I like this book. My young pure soul was intimidated by Twilight when I was in fifth grade. And I have never picked up a vampire-centered book since then.
It was a quick read. The story somehow reminded me of Twilight, but that series is history to me, so...
One thing I have to point out is the writing. It's rough. But generally, I like the story.
It was a quick read. The story somehow reminded me of Twilight, but that series is history to me, so...
One thing I have to point out is the writing. It's rough. But generally, I like the story.
September 28, 2014
Kindling Flames is the world defining first part of a 2 parter that sets the scene for the world of Darian Ritter and his new PA, Vicki. Vicki is newly graduated from college and can't believe her luck at landing the plumb job of keeping Darian's life in order. Little did she know that her new boss is a 900 year old vampire.
The writing draws you in with it's true to life characters. The story keeps you there in the world Julie creates, until you look up at the clock and realize that you've read all night because you couldn't put the book down.
The only down side of this book is that it is a two parter. But with most novels clocking in at 50,000 words, 150,000 words that this novel started with was too long to publish in one go. This novel finishes in the second book Kindling Flames: Flying Sparks, but sets the stage for a continuation of the Ancient Fire series.
Though I normally hate cliffhangers, the writing and the plot line definitely has earned this book the fifth star.
The writing draws you in with it's true to life characters. The story keeps you there in the world Julie creates, until you look up at the clock and realize that you've read all night because you couldn't put the book down.
The only down side of this book is that it is a two parter. But with most novels clocking in at 50,000 words, 150,000 words that this novel started with was too long to publish in one go. This novel finishes in the second book Kindling Flames: Flying Sparks, but sets the stage for a continuation of the Ancient Fire series.
Though I normally hate cliffhangers, the writing and the plot line definitely has earned this book the fifth star.
March 20, 2016
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/k...
I've been wanting to read a Julie Wetzel book for a while, and decided it was finally time to start one. I seriously only picked this series because it won in a coin toss against Accidental Wings of Dragons.
There's much I enjoyed in this book. The characters are pretty awesome, and the plot of it is pretty interesting as well. But there was just something about the author's writing that made it hard for me to get into the story.
It's not boring or poorly written, and I can't put my finger on whatever the issue is... but it made it hard for me to read.
I'm on the fence about whether or not I'll be continuing this series. There's a lot I'd like to know, but I'm not sure if it is worth struggling through. I will be reading the dragon series first, before I make my decision.
I've been wanting to read a Julie Wetzel book for a while, and decided it was finally time to start one. I seriously only picked this series because it won in a coin toss against Accidental Wings of Dragons.
There's much I enjoyed in this book. The characters are pretty awesome, and the plot of it is pretty interesting as well. But there was just something about the author's writing that made it hard for me to get into the story.
It's not boring or poorly written, and I can't put my finger on whatever the issue is... but it made it hard for me to read.
I'm on the fence about whether or not I'll be continuing this series. There's a lot I'd like to know, but I'm not sure if it is worth struggling through. I will be reading the dragon series first, before I make my decision.
March 25, 2015
This review is for books 1-4 so far. OK so initially it took me a while to get into this series, and while I knew that books 1 and 2 were originally one book but were split, for some reason, I think that is why I struggled initially with book 1, because it does feel like an incomplete story. As I got into it though I really lenjoyed it. I don't mind a Mary Sue as some have described the main gal. What I really loved was Zak, I. Absolutely laughed my arse off. He can waggle or wrap his tentacles around me anytime. What was missing for me was a deeper connection with the two main characters, but especially Darien. I don't feel I got to really feel his emotions or what he feels for Vicky - so I guess what I'm saying is I miss the feels a bit. Despite that, it is an ejoyable series and I'm looking forward to reading more.
September 21, 2014
If you are a fan of Werewolves and Vampires, you need to read this book. Ms. Wetzel has done an awesome job of creating her paranormal world. You are drawn in with a story that you think is contemporary but she eases you into the paranormal.
Vicky and Darian are two great characters. They have lots of chemistry from the get go. Darian is dark and brooding. He seems like your typical vampire. Vicky is exactly what he needs. She awakens things in him that he thought were buried. I am rooting for them as a couple. Fingers crossed. :)
This is a must read but I have to warn, there is a cliffhanger. No worries, book two arrives soon, so read on.
Please note, I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Vicky and Darian are two great characters. They have lots of chemistry from the get go. Darian is dark and brooding. He seems like your typical vampire. Vicky is exactly what he needs. She awakens things in him that he thought were buried. I am rooting for them as a couple. Fingers crossed. :)
This is a must read but I have to warn, there is a cliffhanger. No worries, book two arrives soon, so read on.
Please note, I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2014
This is a Fabulous beginning for this series and I seriously cannot wait to read more.
I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Strong characters ,believable happenings, sexy vampires,and a sweet and kind werewolf named Sue ,that helps Victoria by talking things through with her.
Read This Please it's Excellent..
It started with a temp job interview for Victoria Westernly ,that escalated into being drawn into the world of supernatural beings.
Darien Ritter rich, handsome and a bit eccentric, interviews Victoria and is surprised by how she handles things.
Strange murders, Vampires,Werewolves, and an unseen force that can destroy them. Come along for the ride with Darien and his assistant Victoria.
I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Strong characters ,believable happenings, sexy vampires,and a sweet and kind werewolf named Sue ,that helps Victoria by talking things through with her.
Read This Please it's Excellent..
It started with a temp job interview for Victoria Westernly ,that escalated into being drawn into the world of supernatural beings.
Darien Ritter rich, handsome and a bit eccentric, interviews Victoria and is surprised by how she handles things.
Strange murders, Vampires,Werewolves, and an unseen force that can destroy them. Come along for the ride with Darien and his assistant Victoria.
April 26, 2015
Ever changing
Vicky didn't know that the job she was applying for was being a personal assistant for a master vampire. She was luckily that he hired her. Or was she? Her new employer emits a sense of danger that she finds slightly invasive. However, she did have the ability to deal with the unexpected, which helped because Darien was somewhat eccentric. Trying to keep up with her work, appointments, and odd schedule, left Vicky with very little time for herself. When she finds out that her employer is a vampire, she takes it in stride. Darien is very affected by the mess that he has made of Vicky's life and is aware that he's starting to have feelings for her. Where will theirfeelingstake them?
Vicky didn't know that the job she was applying for was being a personal assistant for a master vampire. She was luckily that he hired her. Or was she? Her new employer emits a sense of danger that she finds slightly invasive. However, she did have the ability to deal with the unexpected, which helped because Darien was somewhat eccentric. Trying to keep up with her work, appointments, and odd schedule, left Vicky with very little time for herself. When she finds out that her employer is a vampire, she takes it in stride. Darien is very affected by the mess that he has made of Vicky's life and is aware that he's starting to have feelings for her. Where will theirfeelingstake them?
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