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Hell's Belle #1
Hell's Belle
Alternative cover editions of this ASIN can be found here & here.
Half-vampire, half-human, Nina Martinez spent most of her life underground as part of an elite secret team of government agents who quietly take down rogue monsters, the human world none the wiser. She moves back to her hometown of Providence, RI to keep an eye on the recent uptick in supernatural activity, and to help run the bar she co-owns with her aunt.
Her attempt at a “regular” life, not to mention a budding relationship with smoking hot FBI agent Max, is cut short because of a string of ritual murders targeting the city's community of witches.
But Nina's investigation unearths deadly secrets from her long buried parents. Now the target of supernatural assassins, could Nina be the most dangerous vampire hybrid to ever exist? No wonder she can’t get a date.
Half-vampire, half-human, Nina Martinez spent most of her life underground as part of an elite secret team of government agents who quietly take down rogue monsters, the human world none the wiser. She moves back to her hometown of Providence, RI to keep an eye on the recent uptick in supernatural activity, and to help run the bar she co-owns with her aunt.
Her attempt at a “regular” life, not to mention a budding relationship with smoking hot FBI agent Max, is cut short because of a string of ritual murders targeting the city's community of witches.
But Nina's investigation unearths deadly secrets from her long buried parents. Now the target of supernatural assassins, could Nina be the most dangerous vampire hybrid to ever exist? No wonder she can’t get a date.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2013
313 people are currently reading
1611 people want to read
About the author
Karen Greco
7 books117 followersI've spent close to twenty years in the New York City area, working in publicity and marketing for the entertainment industry. A life-long obsession with exorcists and Dracula drew me to urban fantasy, where I can decapitate characters with impunity. After writing plays for a long time, then leaving that behind, I decided to try to write a novel. HELL'S BELLE is my debut.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
September 13, 2017
3.5 stars
Review to come
Review to come
September 8, 2013
Hell's Belle tries to mix the darker shades of UF with the light tone of some PNR.
The mix wasn't the right one for me, but there will be plenty readers who'll love its lighter side (to balance the gritty plot).
There are a few points that detracted to the story (for me):
--The YA feel that I found didn't match the plot.
Nina is 30 yo, but I read her as a teen in both behavior and skills.
--The inconsistence of some characters, both the heroine and Max. The latter seemed almost psychotic in his behavior, and well before the world crashed (almost literally) around him. Nina was made of rubber: everything bounced on her. Whatever lies, misdirections, actions she was the object of seemed to leave her unaffected.
--Side characters were interesting, but too shallow.
The beginning was a bit info-dump-y (understandable in a debut that starts a series), and unfortunately the prologue didn't help at all.
If you are a fan of lighter UF with humor in it, you might want to give it a try.
DRC courtesy of author via NetGalley
The mix wasn't the right one for me, but there will be plenty readers who'll love its lighter side (to balance the gritty plot).
There are a few points that detracted to the story (for me):
--The YA feel that I found didn't match the plot.
Nina is 30 yo, but I read her as a teen in both behavior and skills.
--The inconsistence of some characters, both the heroine and Max. The latter seemed almost psychotic in his behavior, and well before the world crashed (almost literally) around him. Nina was made of rubber: everything bounced on her. Whatever lies, misdirections, actions she was the object of seemed to leave her unaffected.
--Side characters were interesting, but too shallow.
The beginning was a bit info-dump-y (understandable in a debut that starts a series), and unfortunately the prologue didn't help at all.
If you are a fan of lighter UF with humor in it, you might want to give it a try.
DRC courtesy of author via NetGalley
February 10, 2017
Review coming soon
December 17, 2013
Cover & title - 3 out of 5
Favourite quote - "I refuse to bow to the google gods."
Favourite character - Nina
I love a good UF, this is no exception. The main character is a kickass protagonist, she has cool abilities & as the book goes on you discover more about her past and her.
The supporting characters are great, humorous & they also have cool abilities. The love interest Max is a tough FIB agent who sparks with Nina as soon as they meet. The have a brief tryst but it looks as if their connection might continue in the next book.
The mystery in the story revolves around Nina's past and is an exciting mix of action & discovery.
I enjoyed the book & plan to read the next in the series & more by this author.
Favourite quote - "I refuse to bow to the google gods."
Favourite character - Nina
I love a good UF, this is no exception. The main character is a kickass protagonist, she has cool abilities & as the book goes on you discover more about her past and her.
The supporting characters are great, humorous & they also have cool abilities. The love interest Max is a tough FIB agent who sparks with Nina as soon as they meet. The have a brief tryst but it looks as if their connection might continue in the next book.
The mystery in the story revolves around Nina's past and is an exciting mix of action & discovery.
I enjoyed the book & plan to read the next in the series & more by this author.
November 8, 2013
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
Hell's Belle features 33-year old Nina Martinez who, as a mixed blood (witch/vampire), is part of a group known as the Blood Ops who are under the guise of the Department of Defense. The team also includes Frankie (vampire), Dr. Lochlan O'Malley (Druid), and Darcy (Banshee). It is the job of the Blood Ops to go after rogue supernaturals and put them down once they step out of line. Nina's "other" job is bartender and co-owner of Babes with her Aunt Babette who is a powerful witch.
Hell's Belle follows Nina's return to her hometown of Providence, Rhode Island where the supernatural community has taken a keen interest in the city and where FBI Gang Expert Max Deveroux comes to town looking to solve more than a dozen gruesome murders. It also brings up an old enemy in Marcello (vampire) who was responsible for killing Nina's parents and now he has his sights set on doing the same thing to Nina. Marcellos is just the right blend of scarier than shit antagonist and his and Nina's battle is epic and worthwhile to follow.
Nina IS an interesting character once you get past the clutter that is her life and the unexpected consequences that being part witch (mother's side) and part vampire (father's side) brings with it. She has a healthy temper, has the ability to compel humans, heals quickly, is very strong, and really fast.
She has the ability to be an extremely powerful witch if she would just realize that manifesting one part of her heritage over the other is not a bad thing for her existence, happiness, or her longevity in the world. Nina, I believe, is also one of the oldest female protagonists that I've come across in a very long time. I've tried to actually make a list of female characters over the age of 30 to show that older women are kick-ass just like younger women are.
Greco is a new author to me and Hell's Belle is her first foray into the paranormal genre. I called this PNR because there are more than a few sex scenes with a character (Max) that I didn't much care for because he kept getting in the way and really didn't offer anything useful until the end. But, I will be willing to cut him some slack if he can show not only that he is not working for Demon Ami Bertrand and vampire Tavio, but that he won't hurt Nina in the end. I also see a sub-story with Frankie and Nina that needs to be explored further. They've been partners for more than a few years, and I truly believe their connection is more realistic than Nina/Max.
I do NOT believe it is necessary to read the prequel to Hell's Belle in order to enjoy this story. I haven't found any information on the sequel to Hell's Belle, but I will be keeping an eye out for when it comes out.
*Recvd 09/11/2013* via NetGalley & Published September 3rd 2013 by Karen Greco (first published June 17th 2013)
*Rating* 3.0
*My Thoughts*
Hell's Belle features 33-year old Nina Martinez who, as a mixed blood (witch/vampire), is part of a group known as the Blood Ops who are under the guise of the Department of Defense. The team also includes Frankie (vampire), Dr. Lochlan O'Malley (Druid), and Darcy (Banshee). It is the job of the Blood Ops to go after rogue supernaturals and put them down once they step out of line. Nina's "other" job is bartender and co-owner of Babes with her Aunt Babette who is a powerful witch.
Hell's Belle follows Nina's return to her hometown of Providence, Rhode Island where the supernatural community has taken a keen interest in the city and where FBI Gang Expert Max Deveroux comes to town looking to solve more than a dozen gruesome murders. It also brings up an old enemy in Marcello (vampire) who was responsible for killing Nina's parents and now he has his sights set on doing the same thing to Nina. Marcellos is just the right blend of scarier than shit antagonist and his and Nina's battle is epic and worthwhile to follow.
Nina IS an interesting character once you get past the clutter that is her life and the unexpected consequences that being part witch (mother's side) and part vampire (father's side) brings with it. She has a healthy temper, has the ability to compel humans, heals quickly, is very strong, and really fast.
She has the ability to be an extremely powerful witch if she would just realize that manifesting one part of her heritage over the other is not a bad thing for her existence, happiness, or her longevity in the world. Nina, I believe, is also one of the oldest female protagonists that I've come across in a very long time. I've tried to actually make a list of female characters over the age of 30 to show that older women are kick-ass just like younger women are.
Greco is a new author to me and Hell's Belle is her first foray into the paranormal genre. I called this PNR because there are more than a few sex scenes with a character (Max) that I didn't much care for because he kept getting in the way and really didn't offer anything useful until the end. But, I will be willing to cut him some slack if he can show not only that he is not working for Demon Ami Bertrand and vampire Tavio, but that he won't hurt Nina in the end. I also see a sub-story with Frankie and Nina that needs to be explored further. They've been partners for more than a few years, and I truly believe their connection is more realistic than Nina/Max.
I do NOT believe it is necessary to read the prequel to Hell's Belle in order to enjoy this story. I haven't found any information on the sequel to Hell's Belle, but I will be keeping an eye out for when it comes out.
*Recvd 09/11/2013* via NetGalley & Published September 3rd 2013 by Karen Greco (first published June 17th 2013)
June 3, 2015
Having enjoyed the two "prequel shorts" set in the UF world of Hell's Belle and featuring Nina Martinez out in the field with her Blood Ops partner, the smart-ass vampire Frankie, I was looking forward to reading this full-length novel.
Unfortunately, the shorts basically whet my appetite for something that does not exist: namely, a novel featuring more of Nina and Frankie working cases as part of the Blood Ops team. Why? Well, I guess I should have paid more attention to the fine print of the book's official description instead of relying on my enjoyment of the prequel stories, because Hell's Belle entirely bypasses Nina's dozen or so years as an agent. Strangely, one of the two stories reappears here (word for word?) as the Prologue, but that prologue is disconnected from the rest of the book. What follows (i.e., Chapter 1) starts with Nina beginning anew as a barmaid after returning to her hometown, and there's really not much seen of her Blood Ops team because Nina's busy, well, dating and sexing FBI agent Max, and dealing with her own hybrid witch/vampire nature. There's ostensibly a plot involving a supernatural murder mystery and some magical knives, and Nina's family history, but there's not much to it except for maybe the family stuff.
It's almost as if the shorts/prologue bear only passing relation to the novel apart from the broad strokes of the characters' most basic functions and personality traits. Also, the 30-something Nina here sort of varies between seeming her age and seeming far younger. She supposedly spent her whole adolescence in Blood Ops training and then a dozen years in the field, but seems either remarkably out-of-practice or just plain ignorant of the supernatural a lot of the time, which results in many info dumps throughout the narrative. There's vivid description of the setting (Providence, RI, which author Greco clearly also calls home :), but not the kind that creates atmosphere. The sex scenes are kind of awkwardly written. The relationships between the FBI, the Dept of Defense, and the Blood Ops unit are never explained at all.
I would give this 2.5 stars.
I actually like these characters and their snark, and I like the idea of the Blood Ops unit. This is all a solid basis for great UF (though the focus on Nina's dating FBI agent Max pulls things more toward PNR than UF...). But ultimately, this novel was just okay for me, and my experience of it also suffered from (understandably!) misleading expectations.
Keep the short stories coming, though!
Unfortunately, the shorts basically whet my appetite for something that does not exist: namely, a novel featuring more of Nina and Frankie working cases as part of the Blood Ops team. Why? Well, I guess I should have paid more attention to the fine print of the book's official description instead of relying on my enjoyment of the prequel stories, because Hell's Belle entirely bypasses Nina's dozen or so years as an agent. Strangely, one of the two stories reappears here (word for word?) as the Prologue, but that prologue is disconnected from the rest of the book. What follows (i.e., Chapter 1) starts with Nina beginning anew as a barmaid after returning to her hometown, and there's really not much seen of her Blood Ops team because Nina's busy, well, dating and sexing FBI agent Max, and dealing with her own hybrid witch/vampire nature. There's ostensibly a plot involving a supernatural murder mystery and some magical knives, and Nina's family history, but there's not much to it except for maybe the family stuff.
It's almost as if the shorts/prologue bear only passing relation to the novel apart from the broad strokes of the characters' most basic functions and personality traits. Also, the 30-something Nina here sort of varies between seeming her age and seeming far younger. She supposedly spent her whole adolescence in Blood Ops training and then a dozen years in the field, but seems either remarkably out-of-practice or just plain ignorant of the supernatural a lot of the time, which results in many info dumps throughout the narrative. There's vivid description of the setting (Providence, RI, which author Greco clearly also calls home :), but not the kind that creates atmosphere. The sex scenes are kind of awkwardly written. The relationships between the FBI, the Dept of Defense, and the Blood Ops unit are never explained at all.
I would give this 2.5 stars.
I actually like these characters and their snark, and I like the idea of the Blood Ops unit. This is all a solid basis for great UF (though the focus on Nina's dating FBI agent Max pulls things more toward PNR than UF...). But ultimately, this novel was just okay for me, and my experience of it also suffered from (understandably!) misleading expectations.
Keep the short stories coming, though!
October 19, 2013
DESCRIPTION:
Half vampire, half human, Nina Martinez spent most of her life underground as part of an elite secret team of government agents that quietly take down rogue monsters, the human world none the wiser. She moves back to her hometown of to keep an eye on the recent uptick in supernatural activity, and to help run the bar she co-owns with her aunt.
Her attempt at a “regular” life, not to mention a budding relationship with smoking hot FBI agent Max, is cut short because of a string of ritual murders targeting the city’s community of witches.
But Nina’s investigation unearths deadly secrets from her long buried parents. Now the target of supernatural assassins, could Nina be the most dangerous vampire hybrid to ever exist? No wonder she can’t get a date.
REVIEW:
I love urban fantasies, the grittier the better. The blurb for Hell’s Belle immediately grabbed me. Combine murder and witches and I’m in heaven. That said, it took me a few chapters to connect to Nina. It was only after the first murders that I finally settled into the story. On a short break from her job as a secret agent, Nina headed home to help her aunt. And maybe do a little surveillance on the increased paranormal activity in the area. When Nina stumbled upon a murder scene, little does she expect to be accosted by a vampire…and a ghost. One attack on her person could be explained away but not three. It’s time to call in her team and do some investigating. If only she could escape the eagle-eye of one determined (and decidedly hot) FBI agent who suspected she was connected to the murders in some way.
As Nina dug into her past, she began to learn that not all was as it seemed. People want her dead and will do whatever it takes to finish the job. Nina will have to uncover the secrets of her past and embrace her new life or risk becoming the next victim. I liked the action and call to adventure, but I had a hard time understanding how Nina was supposed to be a super agent, trained from birth, when she had such a difficult time fighting. Despite some continuity issues, I enjoyed the wild ride, especially the miss-mash of unique characters. By the end of the book, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Posted from my site: www.StaceyBrutger.com
Half vampire, half human, Nina Martinez spent most of her life underground as part of an elite secret team of government agents that quietly take down rogue monsters, the human world none the wiser. She moves back to her hometown of to keep an eye on the recent uptick in supernatural activity, and to help run the bar she co-owns with her aunt.
Her attempt at a “regular” life, not to mention a budding relationship with smoking hot FBI agent Max, is cut short because of a string of ritual murders targeting the city’s community of witches.
But Nina’s investigation unearths deadly secrets from her long buried parents. Now the target of supernatural assassins, could Nina be the most dangerous vampire hybrid to ever exist? No wonder she can’t get a date.
REVIEW:
I love urban fantasies, the grittier the better. The blurb for Hell’s Belle immediately grabbed me. Combine murder and witches and I’m in heaven. That said, it took me a few chapters to connect to Nina. It was only after the first murders that I finally settled into the story. On a short break from her job as a secret agent, Nina headed home to help her aunt. And maybe do a little surveillance on the increased paranormal activity in the area. When Nina stumbled upon a murder scene, little does she expect to be accosted by a vampire…and a ghost. One attack on her person could be explained away but not three. It’s time to call in her team and do some investigating. If only she could escape the eagle-eye of one determined (and decidedly hot) FBI agent who suspected she was connected to the murders in some way.
As Nina dug into her past, she began to learn that not all was as it seemed. People want her dead and will do whatever it takes to finish the job. Nina will have to uncover the secrets of her past and embrace her new life or risk becoming the next victim. I liked the action and call to adventure, but I had a hard time understanding how Nina was supposed to be a super agent, trained from birth, when she had such a difficult time fighting. Despite some continuity issues, I enjoyed the wild ride, especially the miss-mash of unique characters. By the end of the book, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Posted from my site: www.StaceyBrutger.com
February 12, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
I enjoyed the book. It did very well with easing me into the world. Unfortunately I did feel like it was just like any other UF/Paranormal book.
What I really liked about the book (that parts that made it stand out from the other books) was her background story - who she is, who her parents are. .
Surprisingly I didn't mind the relationship between Nina and the guys.
One thing I wanted to know more about but got nothing is the Blood Ops background story. How did DOD know about supernaturals? How did they establish this special ops?
I want to read a story of her growing up, I think it would be great reading her training then in turn we can also learn the special team's history.
I enjoyed the book. It did very well with easing me into the world. Unfortunately I did feel like it was just like any other UF/Paranormal book.
What I really liked about the book (that parts that made it stand out from the other books) was her background story - who she is, who her parents are. .
Surprisingly I didn't mind the relationship between Nina and the guys.
One thing I wanted to know more about but got nothing is the Blood Ops background story. How did DOD know about supernaturals? How did they establish this special ops?
I want to read a story of her growing up, I think it would be great reading her training then in turn we can also learn the special team's history.
October 6, 2013
Favorite Lines “I will not share my body with a ghost.”
“I refuse to bow to the Google gods.”
“I am half vampire, and I am not scared of it,”
“Bertrand made him a monster just like us. I watched this muscles work to stand on the board, his wet dirty blond curls flopping into his face. A beautiful monster, for certain, but a monster all the same.”
“I need this like I need another stake in the heart.”
I love a kick ass heroine story! Nina is half vampire and she's finally back home with her Aunt branching out. She's part of Blood Ops (team that works for Defense Dept)
She's kick ass and don't take nothing.
While she was attacked she meets Max a OMG hottie that works for the FBI gang task force.
Did I mention she's half with too? No? Well she is and this crazy vampire Marcelo wants her dead. Reading about her kick butt and discover herself, her magic, and her vampire self was a great ride!
Some great PARANORMALS in this story. Great writing Great Charchters and fpFabulous story lines. Banshee! Vampire! Witch! Berserker! Ghosts! Demon! Oh yes!
This author has defiantly got a new fan and I will be recommending this to all my paranormal lover friends! I will be watching out for what comes next!
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review (Bewitching)
FOUR PARANORMAL FAIRIES
“I refuse to bow to the Google gods.”
“I am half vampire, and I am not scared of it,”
“Bertrand made him a monster just like us. I watched this muscles work to stand on the board, his wet dirty blond curls flopping into his face. A beautiful monster, for certain, but a monster all the same.”
“I need this like I need another stake in the heart.”
I love a kick ass heroine story! Nina is half vampire and she's finally back home with her Aunt branching out. She's part of Blood Ops (team that works for Defense Dept)
She's kick ass and don't take nothing.
While she was attacked she meets Max a OMG hottie that works for the FBI gang task force.
Did I mention she's half with too? No? Well she is and this crazy vampire Marcelo wants her dead. Reading about her kick butt and discover herself, her magic, and her vampire self was a great ride!
Some great PARANORMALS in this story. Great writing Great Charchters and fpFabulous story lines. Banshee! Vampire! Witch! Berserker! Ghosts! Demon! Oh yes!
This author has defiantly got a new fan and I will be recommending this to all my paranormal lover friends! I will be watching out for what comes next!
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review (Bewitching)
FOUR PARANORMAL FAIRIES
July 8, 2014
Hell's Belle's cover caught my eye and the mention of a half-human, half-vampire heroine who is "part of an elite secret team of government agents who quietly take down rogue monsters" sealed the deal. Unfortunately, the story fell a bit short for me.
As a heroine, Nina came out the gates strong. However, as the story progressed, she seemed to go from strong to dependent and naive. The basis of the story and the wide range of supernaturals (weres, vampires, banshees, witches, hell hound, ghosts, berserker) were two pluses. However, the follow through wasn't there. Parts of the story were strong while others needed more polishing to become fully cohesive.
I liked the men in the book, but felt the romance (what there was of it) felt forced. Ultimately, it felt like an unnecessary addition to the story. Similarly, Max's (human FBI agent) yo-yo "relationship" with Nina was confusing. One minute they're trying to have a date before ripping each other's clothes off and the next he's screaming, "FUCK YOU!" when she struggles to explain the situation to him. Big turn off.
I struggled with how to rate this book - 2.5 or 3 stars. As crazy as this may sound, I'm not entirely against reading book 2. I'm interested to know what happens next with the majority of the characters, but if I do, I hope it flows a bit better than the first.
As a heroine, Nina came out the gates strong. However, as the story progressed, she seemed to go from strong to dependent and naive. The basis of the story and the wide range of supernaturals (weres, vampires, banshees, witches, hell hound, ghosts, berserker) were two pluses. However, the follow through wasn't there. Parts of the story were strong while others needed more polishing to become fully cohesive.
I liked the men in the book, but felt the romance (what there was of it) felt forced. Ultimately, it felt like an unnecessary addition to the story. Similarly, Max's (human FBI agent) yo-yo "relationship" with Nina was confusing. One minute they're trying to have a date before ripping each other's clothes off and the next he's screaming, "FUCK YOU!" when she struggles to explain the situation to him. Big turn off.
I struggled with how to rate this book - 2.5 or 3 stars. As crazy as this may sound, I'm not entirely against reading book 2. I'm interested to know what happens next with the majority of the characters, but if I do, I hope it flows a bit better than the first.
October 15, 2013
I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com.
I absolutely loved this book and was heart broken that it ended. The characters were believable in what they are and what they are able to do (quite ironic for a fantasy book!). Nina and her gang of "misfits" make for a truly humorous and action filled ride. The plot was compelling and the twist at the end was totally unexpected. I cannot wait for the next book to see what transpires with what could be a very tricky love triangle ...........
I absolutely loved this book and was heart broken that it ended. The characters were believable in what they are and what they are able to do (quite ironic for a fantasy book!). Nina and her gang of "misfits" make for a truly humorous and action filled ride. The plot was compelling and the twist at the end was totally unexpected. I cannot wait for the next book to see what transpires with what could be a very tricky love triangle ...........
October 24, 2014
Just MEH yes that is an actual word & it's an accurate description of my feeling regarding Hell's Belle.
I'll give book 2 a few chapters likely sample & decide if it's just well crap
I'll give book 2 a few chapters likely sample & decide if it's just well crap
March 28, 2018
It is actually safe to say this is not your average everyday urban fantasy/paranormal fantasy. It is a mixture of other genres as well and for some readers, including myself, the blend works and for others it falls short of its goal.
While Nina is a somewhat cool character what she thinks of herself as being a hybrid vampire and human turns out to be a bit more complicated when her actual dual heritage is revealed fully. When that particular cat is let out of the bag things really get a bit muddied here and there but never dull.
Unfortunately just when things get really interesting the story ends and so do the answers needed to clear up some more of what exactly Nina and her fellow Blood-Ops members have gotten themselves into.
Oh well that is what the rest of the books are for in the series.
While Nina is a somewhat cool character what she thinks of herself as being a hybrid vampire and human turns out to be a bit more complicated when her actual dual heritage is revealed fully. When that particular cat is let out of the bag things really get a bit muddied here and there but never dull.
Unfortunately just when things get really interesting the story ends and so do the answers needed to clear up some more of what exactly Nina and her fellow Blood-Ops members have gotten themselves into.
Oh well that is what the rest of the books are for in the series.
September 26, 2013
4.5*s
I really enjoyed Hell's Belle, first in the series of the same name by debut author Karen Greco. This is definitely a 'me' book and the reason I picked it up. I enjoyed all of the characters, obviously Nina is the main female so she was going to be the best, she had a lot of traits that I love in a main character - smart, kick ass, fun and extremely capable of looking out for herself. I loved the rest of the people she surrounded herself with too and they all seem to have their own story to tell which would be great. Being the first in the series we have world building & character 'getting to know you' going on which is great but I feel that we only just scratch the surface, not in a bad way but rather in a 'tons of room for progression' way and I'm excited to where the author can take these characters. I like a good serial murder plot line filled with mystery, magic, spookiness & violence especially when the leading lady becomes a target and I loved how Nina was brought into the investigation and how it became personal & was linked to her heritage. The paranormal element of the plot was great and opened up a larger world with different supernaturals being brought in and we do get a varied bunch which gives the series a lot of possibilities. I liked Nina's uniqueness too & even though she is part of an 'elite investigation team' I felt that, that took a back seat and didn't really define her in this, although I'd love to see them in action more and have a feeling we will. The romance was likeable, I wasn't sold on Max, I could appreciate the connection they had, but I thought the connection was better with a certain someone else ;) All in all though, it was a great read filled with potential, I'd recommend it & will definitely be looking out for the sequel.
I really enjoyed Hell's Belle, first in the series of the same name by debut author Karen Greco. This is definitely a 'me' book and the reason I picked it up. I enjoyed all of the characters, obviously Nina is the main female so she was going to be the best, she had a lot of traits that I love in a main character - smart, kick ass, fun and extremely capable of looking out for herself. I loved the rest of the people she surrounded herself with too and they all seem to have their own story to tell which would be great. Being the first in the series we have world building & character 'getting to know you' going on which is great but I feel that we only just scratch the surface, not in a bad way but rather in a 'tons of room for progression' way and I'm excited to where the author can take these characters. I like a good serial murder plot line filled with mystery, magic, spookiness & violence especially when the leading lady becomes a target and I loved how Nina was brought into the investigation and how it became personal & was linked to her heritage. The paranormal element of the plot was great and opened up a larger world with different supernaturals being brought in and we do get a varied bunch which gives the series a lot of possibilities. I liked Nina's uniqueness too & even though she is part of an 'elite investigation team' I felt that, that took a back seat and didn't really define her in this, although I'd love to see them in action more and have a feeling we will. The romance was likeable, I wasn't sold on Max, I could appreciate the connection they had, but I thought the connection was better with a certain someone else ;) All in all though, it was a great read filled with potential, I'd recommend it & will definitely be looking out for the sequel.
December 9, 2013
Recently I been reading a string of mediocre books. So, it is a real pleasure to get out of my reading funk thanks to "Hell's Belle." It is checked full of all of the things I love such as great world building, interesting and diverse characters, plenty of action, an interesting plot and hot romance.
Nina Martinez is half vampire and half witch. She virtually has been raised by the Department of Defense since her teens and she works for the Blood Ops unit. She recently moved back to the east coast to assist her Aunt Babe with a bar they co-owner. One evening an attractive man walks into the bar. While Nina attempts to flirt with him, she is suddenly attacked by a lanky man claiming to know what she is. As she attempt to cover up the healing wounds from her attack, the sexy man, FIB agent Max insists she goes to the hospital. While at the hospital, Max gets a call to check out an injured patient. Unfortunately, the kid dies before he can interview him. The Ghost of the teen who died decides to occasionally occupy Nina's body when he needs to communicate.
Soon, it is discovered that there are a string of murders plaguing the city which involves a unique sacrificial knife. Max was sent here to investigate but Nina recognizes the supernatural nature to the crimes. If she is to avoid future attacks she must learn about the secrets of her heritage, protect her real identity from Max all while trying to foster a love connection with him. If the murders are to cease, Nina will need all of the help she can muster from her old friends as well as the new.
I really enjoyed this book and the character of Nina Martinez. She is tough as nails yet vulnerable. Also, I loved her spellbound pet dog she calls "Dog." This is truly a fun read and I cannot wait for future editions.
Nina Martinez is half vampire and half witch. She virtually has been raised by the Department of Defense since her teens and she works for the Blood Ops unit. She recently moved back to the east coast to assist her Aunt Babe with a bar they co-owner. One evening an attractive man walks into the bar. While Nina attempts to flirt with him, she is suddenly attacked by a lanky man claiming to know what she is. As she attempt to cover up the healing wounds from her attack, the sexy man, FIB agent Max insists she goes to the hospital. While at the hospital, Max gets a call to check out an injured patient. Unfortunately, the kid dies before he can interview him. The Ghost of the teen who died decides to occasionally occupy Nina's body when he needs to communicate.
Soon, it is discovered that there are a string of murders plaguing the city which involves a unique sacrificial knife. Max was sent here to investigate but Nina recognizes the supernatural nature to the crimes. If she is to avoid future attacks she must learn about the secrets of her heritage, protect her real identity from Max all while trying to foster a love connection with him. If the murders are to cease, Nina will need all of the help she can muster from her old friends as well as the new.
I really enjoyed this book and the character of Nina Martinez. She is tough as nails yet vulnerable. Also, I loved her spellbound pet dog she calls "Dog." This is truly a fun read and I cannot wait for future editions.
May 31, 2014
Bad-ass heroine + hot male hero + unpredictable plot twists = AWESOME NOVEL.
I really loved this novel. It’s not the first time I read urban fantasy books. Also not the first time I read about a world wherein vampires, werewolves and leprechauns exist but this is unquestionably one of my favorites!
The idea of Nina and the team, the Blood Ops, working for the Department of Defense is exceptional. Having an Aunt who is a witch, a vampire for a best friend and another best friend who is a banshee clearly states that Nina’s life is anything but boring.
First, let’s talk about the Bad-ass Heroine. The funny lines and her attempts at being normal at the beginning connected me right away with Nina. She was bad-ass at times and clumsy on the other, which is pretty hilarious. All throughout the book, Nina was discovering more of herself and her parents. She was evolving into an even more kick-ass character.
Let’s get to the hot male hero. A vampire named Marcello(not the hot one I’m talking about) attacked Nina at Babe’s, which our hot male character, Max, saves our heroine. And what do you know, Max is an FBI agent! They’re growing relationship with each other is sweet and gradual.
For the plot twists, well you read that she’s half vampire right? I recommend you read this to know what the other half is.
So for Urban Fantasy fans out there, this book is for you. (If you’re a fan of Vampires, Werewolves, Demons, Banshee, Leprechauns or just looking for a great read about bad-ass characters) Hell’s Belle is absolutely one of the series you should watch out for. I need the sequel like tomorrow! And no, I’m not kidding.
For more reviews visit our book blog: http://thebookwhorediaries.blogspot.com/
I really loved this novel. It’s not the first time I read urban fantasy books. Also not the first time I read about a world wherein vampires, werewolves and leprechauns exist but this is unquestionably one of my favorites!
The idea of Nina and the team, the Blood Ops, working for the Department of Defense is exceptional. Having an Aunt who is a witch, a vampire for a best friend and another best friend who is a banshee clearly states that Nina’s life is anything but boring.
First, let’s talk about the Bad-ass Heroine. The funny lines and her attempts at being normal at the beginning connected me right away with Nina. She was bad-ass at times and clumsy on the other, which is pretty hilarious. All throughout the book, Nina was discovering more of herself and her parents. She was evolving into an even more kick-ass character.
Let’s get to the hot male hero. A vampire named Marcello(not the hot one I’m talking about) attacked Nina at Babe’s, which our hot male character, Max, saves our heroine. And what do you know, Max is an FBI agent! They’re growing relationship with each other is sweet and gradual.
For the plot twists, well you read that she’s half vampire right? I recommend you read this to know what the other half is.
So for Urban Fantasy fans out there, this book is for you. (If you’re a fan of Vampires, Werewolves, Demons, Banshee, Leprechauns or just looking for a great read about bad-ass characters) Hell’s Belle is absolutely one of the series you should watch out for. I need the sequel like tomorrow! And no, I’m not kidding.
For more reviews visit our book blog: http://thebookwhorediaries.blogspot.com/
July 8, 2013
Awesome Story! I really enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were unique and the story one of a kind. There were a lot of different elements in this story that were unique and I really liked that it wasn't your usually run of the mill vampire story, at the same time there was still a lot of kicking ass, which is always good.
the story centers around Nina a undercover DOD Blood OPS Agent who is just looking to relax and have a little down time in her home town, when someone starts killing witches. Nina who is half Vampire and half witch can't let something like this go in her town especially when FBI Agent Max keeps getting her involved.
Its time to bring in her team and catch this person before more witches get hurt. But what if it is Nina who is the next target? if she is she sure as hell going to find out why and what all the secrets are about. There has never been another like her and she needs to find out more about what and who she is. Can this person tell her? She is going to find out or die trying.
I really loved all the characters in this story but my favourites were Frankie and Babe. I really loved Frankie he was witty and charming and you could tell he was jealous of Max. Babe was the best! she is a kick ass Auntie and one I would want on my side The care and love she gave Nina was more then felt and she could still kick ass!
I think Karen did a wonderful job on this book the bad guys were intense and scary and the good guys totally original and kick ass. I fully recommend this book to one and all!
the story centers around Nina a undercover DOD Blood OPS Agent who is just looking to relax and have a little down time in her home town, when someone starts killing witches. Nina who is half Vampire and half witch can't let something like this go in her town especially when FBI Agent Max keeps getting her involved.
Its time to bring in her team and catch this person before more witches get hurt. But what if it is Nina who is the next target? if she is she sure as hell going to find out why and what all the secrets are about. There has never been another like her and she needs to find out more about what and who she is. Can this person tell her? She is going to find out or die trying.
I really loved all the characters in this story but my favourites were Frankie and Babe. I really loved Frankie he was witty and charming and you could tell he was jealous of Max. Babe was the best! she is a kick ass Auntie and one I would want on my side The care and love she gave Nina was more then felt and she could still kick ass!
I think Karen did a wonderful job on this book the bad guys were intense and scary and the good guys totally original and kick ass. I fully recommend this book to one and all!
October 17, 2015
Ach! I really enjoyed the prequel book to this which was full of humour, action and a great partnership with vampire Frankie, so I could not wait to read this book! But I was disappointed by it! NB: The prequel I read in ebook form is the actual prologue printed in this book.
Nina has returned to her home in Rhode Island alone, and is working in a bar owned by family, keeping an eye out for anything strange. She is attacked by someone who knows that she is part vampire and the whole thing is witnessed by a nosy FBI agent called Max.
Nina spends the whole first part of the book tripping, fainting, getting attacked and making eyes at Max. Where the heck is the kickass female we read about? Why is she acting like a useless drama queen? I really don't like the way she lets Max order her about and call the shots. That isn't the Nina that I was expecting to read about.
It seemed to take ages before the rest of the team turned up and I was itching to see Frankie again. But as soon as he arrives, he and Max start acting like macho muppets over Nina. Max annoys me because he has been around for five minutes and acts like he owns the place AND Nina, and Frankie is determined to put him in his place. I was siding with Frankie on this one. Max is very unprofessional-he asks the victim of a crime to help him solve it and then sleeps with her while she is concussed and weak. Nice guy. He should be getting his ass fired for that. I didn't like him and I also didn't like Nina much for the way she was acting around him.
I won't be reading on with the series.
Nina has returned to her home in Rhode Island alone, and is working in a bar owned by family, keeping an eye out for anything strange. She is attacked by someone who knows that she is part vampire and the whole thing is witnessed by a nosy FBI agent called Max.
Nina spends the whole first part of the book tripping, fainting, getting attacked and making eyes at Max. Where the heck is the kickass female we read about? Why is she acting like a useless drama queen? I really don't like the way she lets Max order her about and call the shots. That isn't the Nina that I was expecting to read about.
It seemed to take ages before the rest of the team turned up and I was itching to see Frankie again. But as soon as he arrives, he and Max start acting like macho muppets over Nina. Max annoys me because he has been around for five minutes and acts like he owns the place AND Nina, and Frankie is determined to put him in his place. I was siding with Frankie on this one. Max is very unprofessional-he asks the victim of a crime to help him solve it and then sleeps with her while she is concussed and weak. Nice guy. He should be getting his ass fired for that. I didn't like him and I also didn't like Nina much for the way she was acting around him.
I won't be reading on with the series.
June 5, 2013
Hell's Belle was a refreshing new take on the supernatural-kick-ass-heroine scheme. Working for some secret task force, Nina's job is to fight evil supernatural creatures which cause havoc in the human world. But this time, Nina herself is the target of an attack by some evil vampire. Being a half vampire herself, she soon finds out that she also has witch genes running in her blood, which makes her an extremely dangerous weapon. Now the fight is on, and together with her vampire team partner, witch aunt and an FBI agent who turns out to be more than he seems (which is tempting enough), this time Nina has to defend her own life as well.
The only thing that annoyed me with this book is Nina's language which tended to exaggerate its bitchy coolness, but I always have a problem with that kind of attitude. Fortunately, the author doesn't paint her above putting her foot in her mouth at times, which compensates for the untouchable facade.
This first part in a new series is a well-done mix of kick-ass action, romance and a good portion of humour. The writing is convincing and surprisingly well-edited, which makes reading a real pleasure and a regrettably outstanding difference to lots of other first works. Way to go!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
The only thing that annoyed me with this book is Nina's language which tended to exaggerate its bitchy coolness, but I always have a problem with that kind of attitude. Fortunately, the author doesn't paint her above putting her foot in her mouth at times, which compensates for the untouchable facade.
This first part in a new series is a well-done mix of kick-ass action, romance and a good portion of humour. The writing is convincing and surprisingly well-edited, which makes reading a real pleasure and a regrettably outstanding difference to lots of other first works. Way to go!
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
July 24, 2014
Are you in the mood for some action. Look no further; you have found it with Karen Greco's first "Hells's Belle" novel. It has the action, suspense and characters to match. Nina is a half-vampire, half-witch and what a combination that is. Her Blood Ops team, consists of a Banshee, a vampire (who is extremely old), her ever helpful Aunt Babe and Dr. "O". And lest I forget, she gains an ever faithful "familiar" in the form of a Hell Hound. This is an outstanding novel for any that enjoys Fantasy, Witches, Vampires and much more. One other note to add is that the paperback version is worth the money to buy. The reason I say that is the book is in a double-spaced format and is also indented so that reading through the chapters is easy on the eyes and you do not even break the bind on the book when reading it. Kudo's Karen, if there were more stars to select, I would give more; as it was that good of a book.
October 4, 2013
Hell’s Belle by Karen Greco
I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
I fantastic read... I was quickly drawn in and became absolutely engrossed in this book until the very end. A successful mix of Urban Fantasy, Romance and Action ... this book has it all. The characters are brilliant and very well defined. The writing is rich, descriptive and flows effortlessly. With its unique plot this book has a refreshing twist and is unlike the other ‘Vampire’ books out there. A wonderful read that I enjoyed immensely.
Thank you to the Author and Carrie, the Book Fairy at LOP.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
I fantastic read... I was quickly drawn in and became absolutely engrossed in this book until the very end. A successful mix of Urban Fantasy, Romance and Action ... this book has it all. The characters are brilliant and very well defined. The writing is rich, descriptive and flows effortlessly. With its unique plot this book has a refreshing twist and is unlike the other ‘Vampire’ books out there. A wonderful read that I enjoyed immensely.
Thank you to the Author and Carrie, the Book Fairy at LOP.
August 12, 2016
Nina Martinez has come home to Providence, RI.
It is looking like something may have come to find her. Her family is avoiding eye contact, mutering excuses for not telling her the whole story, and basically, leaving Nina vulnerable to some very big secrets from her past.
This book is 5-stars, no holds barred, full on paranormal kicking-BUTT! I love the main character, who is half vampire and half human. Or is that really right? Hrmmm. The story has a full team behind her, who are part of the DOD's secret crew to make sure things humans don't believe in, stay that way quietly -- but very very deadly!
November 16, 2013
Loved this book! It started off great and kept that momentum all the way through. There’s plenty of mystery, snarky humor, a bit of romance, and tons of action. The characters jumped out of the page and had me cheering (or jeering) mentally as the story played out. I adored that Nina’s supporting cast, including the Mayor, were so wacky, unpretentious and loyal. I can’t wait for more from Nina and her crew!
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
June 26, 2020
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal).
I normally get bored with some parts of a book although I read them nonstop. WIth this particular novel, I did not find any part of it to be uninteresting or slightly boring. The voice of it was compelling and straight forward. For a first debut novel, I believe this is worth about five stars. I also believe Ms. (or Mrs.) Greco has a wonderful first book that should make for a very interesting series.
I normally get bored with some parts of a book although I read them nonstop. WIth this particular novel, I did not find any part of it to be uninteresting or slightly boring. The voice of it was compelling and straight forward. For a first debut novel, I believe this is worth about five stars. I also believe Ms. (or Mrs.) Greco has a wonderful first book that should make for a very interesting series.
August 30, 2015
I finished this book today and I'm still not sure if I like Nina. She's very abrupt and crass imo. She doesn't appreciate Frankie, whom I adore. He seems very loyal, protective, snarky, funny and fierce. I don't believe she appreciates him as a friend. Max doesn't leave any kind of impression other than hot. He's turned into a bezerker by Bertrand. Ehhhh, so? I love Babe, she cracks me up. I hope Casper finally gets indentified. Dog is adorbs, but PLEASE give him a name Nina! I will continue with book 2 because of Frankie, not Nina.
October 17, 2013
*Received a copy in exchange for an honest review from Lovers of Paranormal*
"I was who I was, dormant gene or not. I would not sacrifice my witch side to my vampire side, or vice versa. I'd figure out a way to find a balance. I refused to be a casualty of their pointless war." -Nina
Hells belle is a fast-pace read filled with lots of action, one kick ass heroine, and two very cute guys. I enjoyed following Nina and her friends as they work together to try to solve the string of killings that have plagued New England and uncover a variety of life changing truth. This novel takes you into a world where creatures of make believe exist and not everyone is all they seem. With a good combination of paranormal and crime, this book will entertain all readers.
"I wasn't expecting to play decoy tonight, and I'd be damned if I was going to lose my shoes in some godforsaken overgrown lot in the middle of Newark, New Jersey. These vampires would have to pry them from my cold, dead hands before I let them go." -Nina
NINA
I think Nina was definitely one of the best parts of this book. It's hard not to like her with her sarcastic comments and strong willed nature. I loved how tough she was instead of being a damsel in distress. Growing up in a secret government base with the rest of her Blood Ops team, she was led to believe that she was only half a paranormal creature when in fact she's so much more. Unaware of the truth that's been hidden from her, she moves to New England to help her aunt Babe and also to investigate the cause to rise in crime in that area. The same night she meets Max, an FBI agent, she is attacked by a hit man who also happens to be a vampire. Though she survives the attack, by not being entirely human, her life as she knows it is forever changed. She discovers that not only is she way more powerful than she once thought, but the hit man after her is also the one who murdered her parents years ago. Despite feeling betrayed by those closest to her for withholding important information about her life, she took it in stride. She realizes that certain things needed to be withheld from her to keep her safe. As it becomes more evident that the crimes occurring may have something to her, she becomes more determined in finding and stopping the perpetrator. With the help of her aunt and friends, she achieves ending the crimes once and for all and also discovers more about herself along the way.
He looked startled for a second and reached down to his ankle. He pulled out a small gun from a holster, checked it and held it in his lap. "You brought a gun on a date?" Well this was insulting. His eyes narrowed. "Apparently, I need a gun around you." -Nina & Max
MAX
A hot surfer/FBI agent who is fiercely persistent whether pursuing a perpetrator or love interest. As he specializes in gangs, after growing up in an environment filled with gangs, he accepts a request from the mayor to help out in the investigation as gangs are what the police believe to be the cause. Little does he know that this decision will change the course of his life. Not only will he meet and fall for a vampire slayer, he'll discover that creatures, such as witches, demons, and ghosts do actually exist. When he sees a link between the what's been occurring and Nina, he seeks her help and they end up teaming up along with her friends to stop the crimes. As he becomes closer to Nina and turn more dangerous for her, his priority changes from catching the murderer to keeping her safe and alive. In trying to keep her safe he makes a makes deal that he will later regret. A deal that will change him in a huge way and will leave him in more danger than he ever was as an FBI agent.
I reached down the front of my dress and pulled a silver-tipped stake from my bustier. Frankie's eyes were wide. "Nice tailoring." He nodded appreciatively and peered down my dress. "What else do you have in there?" I smacked him upside the head. "Focus!" -Nina & Frankie
FRANKIE
A full blooded vampire who leaves both men and women falling at his feet with his accent, humor, and good looks. I loved the funny banter between him and Nina. Through their interactions its easy to see how much they care about each other and how close they've become throughout the years. Best friends who are extremely loyal to each other. As he helps Nina, he becomes very protective of her and is also always there to comfort her when she needs it. Right off the bat he and Max don't see eye to eye but what he does agree with him is the need to keep her safe at all costs. And like Max, he makes a deal that will change his everyday life. It actually turns out to be somewhat of a blessing but one that will not last forever and most likely will have to pay for later. In the mist of defeating the murderer, he also had to make a tough decision but a necessary one that will affect both him and Nina for as long as they live.
Overall, this book was a decent entertaining paranormal read. With an interesting plot and likable characters. I would recommend it to readers who love all things paranormal and those also who enjoy some mystery and crime solving. The ending leaves you in somewhat of a cliffhanger. Though it doesn't leave things unsolved, it does make you suspicious and curious about things. Like, what's going to happen between Nina, Frankie, and Max? and is the government keeping something from the Blood Ops? Looks like the sequel will be very interesting.
Other Favorite Quotes:
"You can't dance with a demon," I warned. "Not even the mambo?" he chirped. -Nina & Frankie
"Was it really just a few hours ago that I was all dolled up and ready for a fancy dinner with this guy? Now I was soaked through with Holy Water, snake snot, ghost goo, and of course, blood. And my date was escorting me to the police station on murder charges. See why I won't go on dates? Someone always ends up in handcuffs, and not the fun kind." -Nina
"We are going to have a real date," he said matter-of-factly. "Right now, I want to go back inside your place and throw you on that bed and rip your clothes off. But I think we need to have a real date first." I grinned. I really would not have been disappointed to bypass the date thing and go straight to the clothes ripping. -Max & Nina
"They couldn't get into your body." I could sense him grinning through his exhaustion. "And why is that?" I asked. "Cause I am a possessive little freak. Put a spell on you," he boasted. "I am the only ghost getting into your pants." Casper & Nina
"I was who I was, dormant gene or not. I would not sacrifice my witch side to my vampire side, or vice versa. I'd figure out a way to find a balance. I refused to be a casualty of their pointless war." -Nina
Hells belle is a fast-pace read filled with lots of action, one kick ass heroine, and two very cute guys. I enjoyed following Nina and her friends as they work together to try to solve the string of killings that have plagued New England and uncover a variety of life changing truth. This novel takes you into a world where creatures of make believe exist and not everyone is all they seem. With a good combination of paranormal and crime, this book will entertain all readers.
"I wasn't expecting to play decoy tonight, and I'd be damned if I was going to lose my shoes in some godforsaken overgrown lot in the middle of Newark, New Jersey. These vampires would have to pry them from my cold, dead hands before I let them go." -Nina
NINA
I think Nina was definitely one of the best parts of this book. It's hard not to like her with her sarcastic comments and strong willed nature. I loved how tough she was instead of being a damsel in distress. Growing up in a secret government base with the rest of her Blood Ops team, she was led to believe that she was only half a paranormal creature when in fact she's so much more. Unaware of the truth that's been hidden from her, she moves to New England to help her aunt Babe and also to investigate the cause to rise in crime in that area. The same night she meets Max, an FBI agent, she is attacked by a hit man who also happens to be a vampire. Though she survives the attack, by not being entirely human, her life as she knows it is forever changed. She discovers that not only is she way more powerful than she once thought, but the hit man after her is also the one who murdered her parents years ago. Despite feeling betrayed by those closest to her for withholding important information about her life, she took it in stride. She realizes that certain things needed to be withheld from her to keep her safe. As it becomes more evident that the crimes occurring may have something to her, she becomes more determined in finding and stopping the perpetrator. With the help of her aunt and friends, she achieves ending the crimes once and for all and also discovers more about herself along the way.
He looked startled for a second and reached down to his ankle. He pulled out a small gun from a holster, checked it and held it in his lap. "You brought a gun on a date?" Well this was insulting. His eyes narrowed. "Apparently, I need a gun around you." -Nina & Max
MAX
A hot surfer/FBI agent who is fiercely persistent whether pursuing a perpetrator or love interest. As he specializes in gangs, after growing up in an environment filled with gangs, he accepts a request from the mayor to help out in the investigation as gangs are what the police believe to be the cause. Little does he know that this decision will change the course of his life. Not only will he meet and fall for a vampire slayer, he'll discover that creatures, such as witches, demons, and ghosts do actually exist. When he sees a link between the what's been occurring and Nina, he seeks her help and they end up teaming up along with her friends to stop the crimes. As he becomes closer to Nina and turn more dangerous for her, his priority changes from catching the murderer to keeping her safe and alive. In trying to keep her safe he makes a makes deal that he will later regret. A deal that will change him in a huge way and will leave him in more danger than he ever was as an FBI agent.
I reached down the front of my dress and pulled a silver-tipped stake from my bustier. Frankie's eyes were wide. "Nice tailoring." He nodded appreciatively and peered down my dress. "What else do you have in there?" I smacked him upside the head. "Focus!" -Nina & Frankie
FRANKIE
A full blooded vampire who leaves both men and women falling at his feet with his accent, humor, and good looks. I loved the funny banter between him and Nina. Through their interactions its easy to see how much they care about each other and how close they've become throughout the years. Best friends who are extremely loyal to each other. As he helps Nina, he becomes very protective of her and is also always there to comfort her when she needs it. Right off the bat he and Max don't see eye to eye but what he does agree with him is the need to keep her safe at all costs. And like Max, he makes a deal that will change his everyday life. It actually turns out to be somewhat of a blessing but one that will not last forever and most likely will have to pay for later. In the mist of defeating the murderer, he also had to make a tough decision but a necessary one that will affect both him and Nina for as long as they live.
Overall, this book was a decent entertaining paranormal read. With an interesting plot and likable characters. I would recommend it to readers who love all things paranormal and those also who enjoy some mystery and crime solving. The ending leaves you in somewhat of a cliffhanger. Though it doesn't leave things unsolved, it does make you suspicious and curious about things. Like, what's going to happen between Nina, Frankie, and Max? and is the government keeping something from the Blood Ops? Looks like the sequel will be very interesting.
Other Favorite Quotes:
"You can't dance with a demon," I warned. "Not even the mambo?" he chirped. -Nina & Frankie
"Was it really just a few hours ago that I was all dolled up and ready for a fancy dinner with this guy? Now I was soaked through with Holy Water, snake snot, ghost goo, and of course, blood. And my date was escorting me to the police station on murder charges. See why I won't go on dates? Someone always ends up in handcuffs, and not the fun kind." -Nina
"We are going to have a real date," he said matter-of-factly. "Right now, I want to go back inside your place and throw you on that bed and rip your clothes off. But I think we need to have a real date first." I grinned. I really would not have been disappointed to bypass the date thing and go straight to the clothes ripping. -Max & Nina
"They couldn't get into your body." I could sense him grinning through his exhaustion. "And why is that?" I asked. "Cause I am a possessive little freak. Put a spell on you," he boasted. "I am the only ghost getting into your pants." Casper & Nina
January 20, 2018
Going back home wasn't what she expected
Karen Greco is a new author for me and I love this book! Mina is a half vampire raised in Nevada by the Blood Ops, trained by vampires, banshees and witches that work for the Department of Defense -with supernaturals still in the closet. Now she's back home in Rhode Island, helping her Aunt run their bar and checking out some supernatural activity that's getting a little too busy, and seeming ritual serial murders. Then, she's targeted and somehow ends up being watched by a tall, dark and very handsome FBI agent, Max, - who arrests HER in relation to the murders. Of course, now her team in Nevada are coming now, nobody hurts the kid. She can't tell Max what's going on, but he's been brought in to solve this 'gang-related' activity and he won't leave her be. Then he sees something odd, a man standing in the ocean sending waves at the two of them while they are sitting in a restaurant, that wreck the restaurant. And sees her stop him. Now, he wants some answers. And then they're attacked by ghosts. And she's learning some very different things about her family. Oh, and if she doesn't kill the guy after her, he's either killing her or killing her and turning her in for a bounty. Mina is feisty, Max strong, smart and stubborn, the bad guys given more credit for brains than in many books, and a few characters that you get to decide if they are really good or bad. Awesome.
Karen Greco is a new author for me and I love this book! Mina is a half vampire raised in Nevada by the Blood Ops, trained by vampires, banshees and witches that work for the Department of Defense -with supernaturals still in the closet. Now she's back home in Rhode Island, helping her Aunt run their bar and checking out some supernatural activity that's getting a little too busy, and seeming ritual serial murders. Then, she's targeted and somehow ends up being watched by a tall, dark and very handsome FBI agent, Max, - who arrests HER in relation to the murders. Of course, now her team in Nevada are coming now, nobody hurts the kid. She can't tell Max what's going on, but he's been brought in to solve this 'gang-related' activity and he won't leave her be. Then he sees something odd, a man standing in the ocean sending waves at the two of them while they are sitting in a restaurant, that wreck the restaurant. And sees her stop him. Now, he wants some answers. And then they're attacked by ghosts. And she's learning some very different things about her family. Oh, and if she doesn't kill the guy after her, he's either killing her or killing her and turning her in for a bounty. Mina is feisty, Max strong, smart and stubborn, the bad guys given more credit for brains than in many books, and a few characters that you get to decide if they are really good or bad. Awesome.
December 23, 2017
Disappointing
This was supposed to feature a female main character who hunts monsters. I thought that she would obviously make her own decisions and not be routinely deferential to every man she encounters.
Instead of heroine, I found flake. Sex scenes where a woman has to let a man initiate sex because she doesn't want to be alone, instead of indicating what she wants is dangerous. It gets perilously close to what a lot of men would find uncomfortably close to rape.
Maybe my reaction is different from that of many women but I didn't like where the character was heading. I didn't finish the book.
This was supposed to feature a female main character who hunts monsters. I thought that she would obviously make her own decisions and not be routinely deferential to every man she encounters.
Instead of heroine, I found flake. Sex scenes where a woman has to let a man initiate sex because she doesn't want to be alone, instead of indicating what she wants is dangerous. It gets perilously close to what a lot of men would find uncomfortably close to rape.
Maybe my reaction is different from that of many women but I didn't like where the character was heading. I didn't finish the book.
November 8, 2017
Too much formula and not enough plotter
We have secret government paranormal team, full vamp, half vamp-witch, banshee, and whatever can be scrounged up. The plot jumps in jerkey manner, grandiosely expounding on inter species bigotries, but not explaining, over explaining things past events having nothing to do with the current plot. The central character has all judgment of a snotty 15 year old not a woman of thirty. If I was fighting magic slingining nasties, I would read the spell books even if I had to use google to translate.
We have secret government paranormal team, full vamp, half vamp-witch, banshee, and whatever can be scrounged up. The plot jumps in jerkey manner, grandiosely expounding on inter species bigotries, but not explaining, over explaining things past events having nothing to do with the current plot. The central character has all judgment of a snotty 15 year old not a woman of thirty. If I was fighting magic slingining nasties, I would read the spell books even if I had to use google to translate.
July 4, 2017
While the premise is good there are some serious issues with the format of the book. Major discovery is made and delivered in past tense, the final battle has no lead up and answers no questions as to why or who is behind it, the characters are a preassembled group who you never really bond with but are expected to understand their history. Hopefully this (the first book in a series) was a staging book so the next story can be read and answers found and character relationships built.
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