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Ever After #1
Eternal Ever After
His past holds a secret…
Arie Cush has a secret that he thought he’d left behind. When his past follows him to Chicago he must protect someone that reminds him of all the painful memories he’s tried so hard to forget. But when every touch from her sets his heart and body on fire—he finds it hard to maintain his aloof façade.
that becomes her nightmare.
Holly Ellis has secrets of her own. An encounter with the handsome stranger who frequents her coffee shop reveals a vampire with baggage. Even though it might be more than she bargained for, she can’t resist the one person who understands her. But her life is in danger and a supernatural threat could reveal the underground world of vampires to humankind in this Gothic Cinderella re-telling.
Arie Cush has a secret that he thought he’d left behind. When his past follows him to Chicago he must protect someone that reminds him of all the painful memories he’s tried so hard to forget. But when every touch from her sets his heart and body on fire—he finds it hard to maintain his aloof façade.
that becomes her nightmare.
Holly Ellis has secrets of her own. An encounter with the handsome stranger who frequents her coffee shop reveals a vampire with baggage. Even though it might be more than she bargained for, she can’t resist the one person who understands her. But her life is in danger and a supernatural threat could reveal the underground world of vampires to humankind in this Gothic Cinderella re-telling.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2013
165 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
About the author
A.C. James
41 books321 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author A.C. James writes paranormal romance and erotica, including Eternal Ever After (rebranded as Eternal Lover), featured in the bestselling Spice Box anthology. Her Ever Dark Immortals Series, which begins with Eternal Lover, has been described as “brimming with sensuality” and “romantic and sizzling hot.” The Isle of the Horse Shifters series starts with Ride: Awakening and is “lighthearted,” which is a “joy ride from beginning to end.”
She resides in the Philadelphia suburbs with her adoring husband Ron (aka Mr. A.C. James), who loves her imaginative yarns and punny sense of humor. She’s also a domestic violence advocate and discusses intimate partner violence and addiction to raise awareness on social media and through her writing. Many of her books include themes like alcoholism or addiction. If you love books that feature underdogs and redemption, her stories will capture your heart.
She spends most of her time drinking large vats of coffee while wrangling kids by day and writing by night. Recovering video game beta tester and tech geek who grew up going to cons and watching SmackDown. There’s probably some cosplay pictures around somewhere of her dressed up as Bloodberry from Saber Marionette J. Just don’t tell anyone.
She resides in the Philadelphia suburbs with her adoring husband Ron (aka Mr. A.C. James), who loves her imaginative yarns and punny sense of humor. She’s also a domestic violence advocate and discusses intimate partner violence and addiction to raise awareness on social media and through her writing. Many of her books include themes like alcoholism or addiction. If you love books that feature underdogs and redemption, her stories will capture your heart.
She spends most of her time drinking large vats of coffee while wrangling kids by day and writing by night. Recovering video game beta tester and tech geek who grew up going to cons and watching SmackDown. There’s probably some cosplay pictures around somewhere of her dressed up as Bloodberry from Saber Marionette J. Just don’t tell anyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
June 2, 2014
Okay. I'm not even sure what I just tortured myself with here. But I do know one thing for sure.
The synopsis sounded promising. Vamps with a little BDSM thrown in? What more could a girl ask for, right?
Well something that was a little less ridiculous would have been just peachy!
Vampires, Fairies, and witches! Oh My! These wouldn't have been bad things if they were introduced with just one tiny bit of believability.
*Dramatic Facepalm*
This book is more along the lines of Twilight meets True Blood. There are similarities to both. A LOT of similarities.
The Vampires in this book don't sparkle or glamour though... they dazzle!!
There were things in this book that were constantly mentioned or pointed out, her "satchel" for instance. What the hell was up with the satchel? I kept thinking there would be something important revealed about it since it was mentioned fifteen different times.
Another was when Arie dazzled her and jumped off the top of a 1,000 ft. building, she constantly gets migraines when trying to remember what happened later, (a kiss) but those things were never followed up on. It's not like he didn't kiss her, spank her, bind her, have sex with her throughout the book, so what was so important about her forgetting that kiss? It's never explained.
Then on the opposite end of the widely swinging spectrum there were things that were way over the top in being overly descriptive.
For instance at about 24% in the author takes us on a little ride.
"We drove north on Lincoln Park West" "Arie turned right onto West Fullerton Parkway and continued straight at the intersection of North Cannon Drive." "He merged onto the highway, heading south." "Arie pulled off the highway, taking the Grand Avenue exit, bearing left onto Lower North Lake Shore Drive." "We continued over another bridge." "Arie turned right onto East Wacker Drive...” "Arie merged onto a ramp continued past the Chicago Riverwalk; its scenic view made me dizzy...” (Yeah! I feel ya on that one!) "He turned left on Columbus Drive..."
I actually felt carsick after just *reading* that!
Did the author think I was gonna plug all of this into Google Maps and go for a scenic Sunday afternoon drive? Really? All of that took up *way* too much space, and that doesn't even mention all the filler in between all of those twists and turns.
The funniest line in the whole book; "I laughed. ’You seriously expect me to believe that the mafia is controlled by a bunch of faeries?'"
Yeah well, I can believe that more than the plausibility of the rest of this book.
Holly doesn't seem in the least shocked when Arie reveals that he's a vampire, or that there are faeries, witches, etc., she's more shocked that said vampire is standing in her kitchen cooking.
There is one scene in the book where Aire starts laughing at her, and by the end of the paragraph I feel like I’m reading about a 12 year old boy rather than a vampire who's been around since about 108 BC. Sometimes he seems very old world and refined, then all of the sudden he seems like a schoolboy.
I don't think I ever developed a connection with a single character in this book. They were all one dimensional and unbelievable.
*ponders*
Except maybe Mystic, the cat.
I almost gave up on this book at around 75%, but felt that I needed to finish at that point. I had to see if the Rogue vampire actually ever showed up, or was that just one more thing that was being led up to that didn't materialize?
The synopsis sounded promising. Vamps with a little BDSM thrown in? What more could a girl ask for, right?
Well something that was a little less ridiculous would have been just peachy!
Vampires, Fairies, and witches! Oh My! These wouldn't have been bad things if they were introduced with just one tiny bit of believability.
*Dramatic Facepalm*
This book is more along the lines of Twilight meets True Blood. There are similarities to both. A LOT of similarities.
The Vampires in this book don't sparkle or glamour though... they dazzle!!
There were things in this book that were constantly mentioned or pointed out, her "satchel" for instance. What the hell was up with the satchel? I kept thinking there would be something important revealed about it since it was mentioned fifteen different times.
Another was when Arie dazzled her and jumped off the top of a 1,000 ft. building, she constantly gets migraines when trying to remember what happened later, (a kiss) but those things were never followed up on. It's not like he didn't kiss her, spank her, bind her, have sex with her throughout the book, so what was so important about her forgetting that kiss? It's never explained.
Then on the opposite end of the widely swinging spectrum there were things that were way over the top in being overly descriptive.
For instance at about 24% in the author takes us on a little ride.
"We drove north on Lincoln Park West" "Arie turned right onto West Fullerton Parkway and continued straight at the intersection of North Cannon Drive." "He merged onto the highway, heading south." "Arie pulled off the highway, taking the Grand Avenue exit, bearing left onto Lower North Lake Shore Drive." "We continued over another bridge." "Arie turned right onto East Wacker Drive...” "Arie merged onto a ramp continued past the Chicago Riverwalk; its scenic view made me dizzy...” (Yeah! I feel ya on that one!) "He turned left on Columbus Drive..."
I actually felt carsick after just *reading* that!
Did the author think I was gonna plug all of this into Google Maps and go for a scenic Sunday afternoon drive? Really? All of that took up *way* too much space, and that doesn't even mention all the filler in between all of those twists and turns.
The funniest line in the whole book; "I laughed. ’You seriously expect me to believe that the mafia is controlled by a bunch of faeries?'"
Yeah well, I can believe that more than the plausibility of the rest of this book.
Holly doesn't seem in the least shocked when Arie reveals that he's a vampire, or that there are faeries, witches, etc., she's more shocked that said vampire is standing in her kitchen cooking.
There is one scene in the book where Aire starts laughing at her, and by the end of the paragraph I feel like I’m reading about a 12 year old boy rather than a vampire who's been around since about 108 BC. Sometimes he seems very old world and refined, then all of the sudden he seems like a schoolboy.
I don't think I ever developed a connection with a single character in this book. They were all one dimensional and unbelievable.
*ponders*
Except maybe Mystic, the cat.
I almost gave up on this book at around 75%, but felt that I needed to finish at that point. I had to see if the Rogue vampire actually ever showed up, or was that just one more thing that was being led up to that didn't materialize?
December 15, 2013
Eternal Ever After. A.C. James
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book reviews.
I thought this sounded fun, I loved the way Arie sounded so mysterious, and Holly one of those flawed heroines so easy to identify with.
Sadly it didn't work for me, Arie was at times totally irritating and other times really interesting. He was hot and cold, giving Holly come on signals then pushing her away. It did sound at times like the Twilight beginnings, but simply didn't work that way in such a short novel. “I’m not good for you, you should stay away” - we heard that ad nauseum from Edward didn't we, and it grated to hear the same words from Arie. Instead their romance seemed to jump in great leaps, without really anything ever happening. Holly, she was at times forward – telling Arie he should ask her out, then other times very self conscious? When he revealed – very quickly – that he was a big, bad vampire she was “oh – OK” and I’d have expected more of a reaction. I couldn't really empathise with either of them. I needed more build-up and more of them actually getting together and talking, not just this on and off jumpy progression.
The plot-line – parts worked well, when Holly was having flashbacks for example – I really felt as if I was there with her. Unfortunately that wasn't enough to pull the overall feel of the novel up – the characters felt very clichéd rather than fresh. I know the vampire genre is swamped and its tough, but for me this book didn't cut it. Someone mentioned the Twilight feel – I agree in parts, Arie being older and the comments I picked up, Holly being a target, the feel of the Vampires friends in the club feel like the Cullen family. I just find it hard that the problem Arie has to sort that’s causing danger for Holly has been left so long. I can't imagine that the others would have ignored it, and that problems wouldn't have been piling up over many years already.
I think maybe for me its a novel that’s tried top pack too much in a short space. The witch/godmother/dress creation section for example didn't really add to the main plot – it was one of the parts I really liked, but it didn't complete any of the existing plots and took up valuable space. It really deserved expansion into a novel of its own. The BDSM elements seemed pretty irrelevant, and read as if added for the sake of adding some spice. It didn't need the warning that came with it....Even the flashbacks – they read really well, but took up a lot of space and some were just jaunts into history, adding nothing to the main plot though very well written and realistic. Better IMO to have concentrated on simply Holly/Arie, and the main problem. But... that just my opinion as always – we all want different things and I’m sure others will love this novel – just didn't work for me sadly.
Stars: two.
ARC supplied by Netgalley.
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book reviews.
I thought this sounded fun, I loved the way Arie sounded so mysterious, and Holly one of those flawed heroines so easy to identify with.
Sadly it didn't work for me, Arie was at times totally irritating and other times really interesting. He was hot and cold, giving Holly come on signals then pushing her away. It did sound at times like the Twilight beginnings, but simply didn't work that way in such a short novel. “I’m not good for you, you should stay away” - we heard that ad nauseum from Edward didn't we, and it grated to hear the same words from Arie. Instead their romance seemed to jump in great leaps, without really anything ever happening. Holly, she was at times forward – telling Arie he should ask her out, then other times very self conscious? When he revealed – very quickly – that he was a big, bad vampire she was “oh – OK” and I’d have expected more of a reaction. I couldn't really empathise with either of them. I needed more build-up and more of them actually getting together and talking, not just this on and off jumpy progression.
The plot-line – parts worked well, when Holly was having flashbacks for example – I really felt as if I was there with her. Unfortunately that wasn't enough to pull the overall feel of the novel up – the characters felt very clichéd rather than fresh. I know the vampire genre is swamped and its tough, but for me this book didn't cut it. Someone mentioned the Twilight feel – I agree in parts, Arie being older and the comments I picked up, Holly being a target, the feel of the Vampires friends in the club feel like the Cullen family. I just find it hard that the problem Arie has to sort that’s causing danger for Holly has been left so long. I can't imagine that the others would have ignored it, and that problems wouldn't have been piling up over many years already.
I think maybe for me its a novel that’s tried top pack too much in a short space. The witch/godmother/dress creation section for example didn't really add to the main plot – it was one of the parts I really liked, but it didn't complete any of the existing plots and took up valuable space. It really deserved expansion into a novel of its own. The BDSM elements seemed pretty irrelevant, and read as if added for the sake of adding some spice. It didn't need the warning that came with it....Even the flashbacks – they read really well, but took up a lot of space and some were just jaunts into history, adding nothing to the main plot though very well written and realistic. Better IMO to have concentrated on simply Holly/Arie, and the main problem. But... that just my opinion as always – we all want different things and I’m sure others will love this novel – just didn't work for me sadly.
Stars: two.
ARC supplied by Netgalley.
July 3, 2014
Book: Eternal Ever After
Author: A.C. James
Publication Date: 11/20/2013
Reviewed by: Tammy - http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
This book contains HOT, STEAMY, BDSM, SEXUAL and totally EROTIC themes !!!
Holly Ellis is a 22 year old with a unique ability. She is what is known as a SEER or has what is called the Sight. She has seen images of the past, present and future often times through very vivid dreams or just by simply touching someone. She has a very crappy job at the Coffee Grind and a boss who is often times very disrespectful. She meets Arie Cush a very sexy guy who stops into the Coffee Grind. One evening after getting off work she goes to her car only to discover it has a flat. In comes that sexy guy Arie and offers to fix it for her. Holly has some wild and vivid sexual dreams but who is the man in them? Every time Arie gets near her Holly has a dizzy spell or feels very light headed and she is not sure what that means. One night she invites Arie into her home and her cat Mystic flips out and hisses loudly at Arie and she finally asks Arie what he is. He says he is Vampire! Holly doesn’t want to believe it but with her having her abilities she knows anything is possible. Holly and Arie get all caught up in a massive hunt for a much older and stronger vampire named Katarina who was a consort to Arie and she has gone totally psycho. Arie tries so hard to deny his feelings for Holly as he is trying to protect her but also she holds an uncanny resemblance to Katarina. He and Arie go to the BDSM club Hellfire which is owned by Vampires himself included. Will Holly finally get her Vampire? Can Arie finally let go of the past?
This book grabs you from the beginning and makes it very difficult to put down. Hot steamy sexual scenes along with strong passion and loyalty.
Pickup your copy today folks it’s a great read !!!
Review copy provided by: ARC provided by Author for my Honest Review
Author: A.C. James
Publication Date: 11/20/2013
Reviewed by: Tammy - http://booknooknuts.blogspot.com/
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
This book contains HOT, STEAMY, BDSM, SEXUAL and totally EROTIC themes !!!
Holly Ellis is a 22 year old with a unique ability. She is what is known as a SEER or has what is called the Sight. She has seen images of the past, present and future often times through very vivid dreams or just by simply touching someone. She has a very crappy job at the Coffee Grind and a boss who is often times very disrespectful. She meets Arie Cush a very sexy guy who stops into the Coffee Grind. One evening after getting off work she goes to her car only to discover it has a flat. In comes that sexy guy Arie and offers to fix it for her. Holly has some wild and vivid sexual dreams but who is the man in them? Every time Arie gets near her Holly has a dizzy spell or feels very light headed and she is not sure what that means. One night she invites Arie into her home and her cat Mystic flips out and hisses loudly at Arie and she finally asks Arie what he is. He says he is Vampire! Holly doesn’t want to believe it but with her having her abilities she knows anything is possible. Holly and Arie get all caught up in a massive hunt for a much older and stronger vampire named Katarina who was a consort to Arie and she has gone totally psycho. Arie tries so hard to deny his feelings for Holly as he is trying to protect her but also she holds an uncanny resemblance to Katarina. He and Arie go to the BDSM club Hellfire which is owned by Vampires himself included. Will Holly finally get her Vampire? Can Arie finally let go of the past?
This book grabs you from the beginning and makes it very difficult to put down. Hot steamy sexual scenes along with strong passion and loyalty.
Pickup your copy today folks it’s a great read !!!
Review copy provided by: ARC provided by Author for my Honest Review
February 5, 2017
Oh, I wish I haven't downloaded so many e-books! I have to go through so much to bring you a review (a hint for you, my lovely reader: sent me either dark chocolate, a black rose, any cool decadent piece of jewelry,...) 'cause I'm doing this for free and what once looked like fun is now pain.
Because in the book I've just finished was that nasty feeling of deja vu. Ever read Twilight, a Sookie Stackhouse novel and Fifty Shades of whatever? It's all mixed in here.
The beginning introduces a gifted waitress who shines like a beacon for the vampire world (yaaas, that's the Sookie part) and there is this vampire guy who approaches her and despite his inability to sparkle in the sunlight he bears certain resemblance of Edward from Twilight since he likes to stalk in the name of protection, show off (jumping on the tall buildings, being fast, buying new cars and being melodramatic by saying how Holly - that's the protagonist- should keep away from him while he is getting closer and closer), manipulate ... and since this is for adults he likes to spank people (hello, Mr Grey). But fret not, he's got a core of a marshmallow.
It was a quite disturbing read regarding the fact it was a mix of three books (maybe more, I haven't read everything under the sun) because you just can't help it and snicker at the scenes you've once read in a different book and you just know how the characters will act. But then again it may be a good thing - as I once said, people who grew up on Twilight surely bought all those Fifty Shades books which means there is quite large audience likely to enjoy this book.
Because in the book I've just finished was that nasty feeling of deja vu. Ever read Twilight, a Sookie Stackhouse novel and Fifty Shades of whatever? It's all mixed in here.
The beginning introduces a gifted waitress who shines like a beacon for the vampire world (yaaas, that's the Sookie part) and there is this vampire guy who approaches her and despite his inability to sparkle in the sunlight he bears certain resemblance of Edward from Twilight since he likes to stalk in the name of protection, show off (jumping on the tall buildings, being fast, buying new cars and being melodramatic by saying how Holly - that's the protagonist- should keep away from him while he is getting closer and closer), manipulate ... and since this is for adults he likes to spank people (hello, Mr Grey). But fret not, he's got a core of a marshmallow.
It was a quite disturbing read regarding the fact it was a mix of three books (maybe more, I haven't read everything under the sun) because you just can't help it and snicker at the scenes you've once read in a different book and you just know how the characters will act. But then again it may be a good thing - as I once said, people who grew up on Twilight surely bought all those Fifty Shades books which means there is quite large audience likely to enjoy this book.
December 12, 2013
Sometimes it's the little things that turn you off of a book and for me it was when this couple had their first sexual encounter on top of a pile of lumber... LOL... ouch! How can you enjoy sex when you're rubbing splinters into your bottom after having been spanked?! I don't know... maybe somebody heavy into BDSM gets that one. If that is something that floats your boat then you'll like this book for sure.
If you're like me and you've read at least a dozen different vampire series then this book will probably not be anything new. It did give me a been there/done that feeling. But, if you haven't read a whole lot vampire series and you are into the BDSM scene then I would definitely recommend this one. There are some appealing characters. I did like the intriguing and powerful female Dom who was in charge of the club.
I really do think my low rating is more of a reflection of my over saturation of vampire books this year and my growing dislike for the BDSM laced books. I think BDSM was a passing phase for me... I was curious... now I'm not. Time to move on! So, bear that in mind when you're trying to decide if this one is for you.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
www.ktbookreviews.com
If you're like me and you've read at least a dozen different vampire series then this book will probably not be anything new. It did give me a been there/done that feeling. But, if you haven't read a whole lot vampire series and you are into the BDSM scene then I would definitely recommend this one. There are some appealing characters. I did like the intriguing and powerful female Dom who was in charge of the club.
I really do think my low rating is more of a reflection of my over saturation of vampire books this year and my growing dislike for the BDSM laced books. I think BDSM was a passing phase for me... I was curious... now I'm not. Time to move on! So, bear that in mind when you're trying to decide if this one is for you.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
www.ktbookreviews.com
March 29, 2014
Book recieved from and read/reviewed for http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com
... vampires dont sparkle ... they Dazzle.. *smiles*
The review is ready @ http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com/20...
... vampires dont sparkle ... they Dazzle.. *smiles*
The review is ready @ http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com/20...
October 19, 2017
>Book review – Eternal Ever After: A Vampire Romance
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the first in the Ever After series ends with an HEA. Arie is a vampire who visits the coffee shop Holly works in every day. Arie is attracted to Holly because she reminds him of his past love. Holly is attracted to Arie, but usually steers clear of relationships due to her clairvoyancey.
>Arie's past love is now a vengeful, crazy ex out to kill Holly. The romance in this story is a bit forced. Holly finds herself attracted to the BDSM lifestyle, but I didn't feel she was necessarily attracted to Arie. Holly seemed attracted to the main dominatrix as well as Arie.
>Arie seemed to only be attracted to Holly as a kind of remembrance of his ex before she went nuts. Holly's powers explain her clairvoyance, but do nothing to add or detract from her romance with Arie. The BDSM is only introduced, not heavily described. Arie seems to enjoy that scene with different partners, not just Holly.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the book 3 stars. The romance didn't stand out and the danger seemed a bit vague until the very end.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the first in the Ever After series ends with an HEA. Arie is a vampire who visits the coffee shop Holly works in every day. Arie is attracted to Holly because she reminds him of his past love. Holly is attracted to Arie, but usually steers clear of relationships due to her clairvoyancey.
>Arie's past love is now a vengeful, crazy ex out to kill Holly. The romance in this story is a bit forced. Holly finds herself attracted to the BDSM lifestyle, but I didn't feel she was necessarily attracted to Arie. Holly seemed attracted to the main dominatrix as well as Arie.
>Arie seemed to only be attracted to Holly as a kind of remembrance of his ex before she went nuts. Holly's powers explain her clairvoyance, but do nothing to add or detract from her romance with Arie. The BDSM is only introduced, not heavily described. Arie seems to enjoy that scene with different partners, not just Holly.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the book 3 stars. The romance didn't stand out and the danger seemed a bit vague until the very end.
October 24, 2016
The beginning was pretty slow going for me but I loved how Holly and Arie met right form the start and she became aware of who/what he was. I liked the storyline and there were some very hot scenes within this book, I loved them. Although I would have loved to read some of this book in Arie’s POV, as I felt that a lot could be said from him, I still enjoyed reading it even though Holly did annoy a little at times.
There were a few parts where things did get a little confusing. As topics changed quite abruptly I found myself reading the same part over and over again just to see what happened and to wrap my mind around all the different things that are being said at once. As I didn’t know what was being said it was a little frustrating just trying to keep up. Although, there were parts where things got really interesting and I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next, it was a great page-turner at times.
Can’t wait to see what happens next
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
There were a few parts where things did get a little confusing. As topics changed quite abruptly I found myself reading the same part over and over again just to see what happened and to wrap my mind around all the different things that are being said at once. As I didn’t know what was being said it was a little frustrating just trying to keep up. Although, there were parts where things got really interesting and I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next, it was a great page-turner at times.
Can’t wait to see what happens next
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
October 5, 2017
Holly, a young barrista is burdened with the gift of The Sight and it plays havoc with her dating life. There is a good looking man that has started to pay Holly particular attention when he stops regularly at the coffee shop. Soon Holly takes him up on an offer to drive her home when her car breaks down. There is sparkage but something is off about the man, Arie. This book is about a young woman with an ability and an ancient vampire and what happens when they get together. It’s a decent millennial book. Definitely older than YA as there is some BDSM.
October 28, 2016
This was a really good book, I do love a vampire story.
I could feel the characters throughout the book and the erotic scenes where very well written. The club was an added bonus in the story and I'm looking forward to more of the same in the next book.
A captivating read that leads on to the next book, with a slight twist at the end.
I could feel the characters throughout the book and the erotic scenes where very well written. The club was an added bonus in the story and I'm looking forward to more of the same in the next book.
A captivating read that leads on to the next book, with a slight twist at the end.
August 16, 2017
Excellent
I loved this story. It has a strong character in the shape of a sexy male vampire. There is a bit of S and M which the heroine enjoys but is not too shocking. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
I loved this story. It has a strong character in the shape of a sexy male vampire. There is a bit of S and M which the heroine enjoys but is not too shocking. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
July 31, 2018
Picked this up by chance
I'm so glad I picked this up. Quite fresh, not as formulaic as many other books in this market. Great heroine in Holly, interesting premise and I'm off to find the next in this series!
I'm so glad I picked this up. Quite fresh, not as formulaic as many other books in this market. Great heroine in Holly, interesting premise and I'm off to find the next in this series!
November 20, 2018
Not the greatest book
I felt like this book was way too fast paced. It really didn’t explain half of the stuff. Like for instance how the main character suddenly was ok with Arie being a vampire. It didn’t really describe the surprise and slight fear enough.
I felt like this book was way too fast paced. It really didn’t explain half of the stuff. Like for instance how the main character suddenly was ok with Arie being a vampire. It didn’t really describe the surprise and slight fear enough.
January 8, 2017
This book was interesting but not what I expected. BDSM and vampires,fae and witches and a feeling that I've read it before
dnf
August 19, 2024Chapter 1: meets a weird guy at a coffee shop // Chapter 2: he’s a vampire and they order pizza. Need I say more?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2017
Fast pace but over all pretty good. The sex scenes weren't stretched out like most of the books I read, but I really didn't like the end that much.
I love how she wasn't weak. Since this is just the beginning and there is more to the story in the next few books....I hope to see their relationship last.
I love how she wasn't weak. Since this is just the beginning and there is more to the story in the next few books....I hope to see their relationship last.
December 8, 2013
STACI T.'S REVIEW
ETERNAL EVER AFTER by A. C. James is an erotic paranormal romance novel, the first full length novel in the EVER AFTER SERIES. Having already read a collection of short stories by this author that introduced these characters and this world, I was excited to finally get to read a novel that explored one of them in deeper detail. James didn’t disappoint. The characters we met and loved in the short story collection make appearances in this first novel, but we get an intimate look at Arie, an ancient vampire. And I do mean intimate.
Arie is a vampire who finds himself drawn to Holly, a waitress at a coffee shop, who reminds him of Katarina, an ex-lover. Someone he and everyone else would like to forget. Arie’s an enigma to Holly—part refined gentleman, part restrained power—but one hundred percent passion. She’s a puzzle he can’t solve, and she can’t help him, because she doesn’t know her history either—her mother died giving birth to her, and she grew up in foster care. Between the two of them, they discover she’s not only a seer (which makes her a hot commodity in the supernatural world), she’s a witch. A very powerful one. When Katarina comes crashing back into their lives, she comes with a vengeance, tormenting Holly and leaving a trail of dead bodies in her wake. Not only is Holly in danger, the whole vampire race is in danger of being revealed to humans. Arie and the Council of Sanguis have to put an end to her before Holly is killed and vampires exposed. A plan is put in place, using Holly as bait. But Katarina steals the protection amulet that Holly’s godmother gives her, the one she made her promise to wear after she had a vision of her death. Can Arie and the Council protect Holly from his psychopathic ex-lover?
This novel has explicit sex in it, including some BDSM scenes. There are none of the typical BDSM protocols (such as safe words and contracts) put in use, which is addressed in the introduction, but still discomforting given it is Holly’s introduction to the world and some readers skip intros. Still, that’s no reason to dislike a book, unless you are looking for realism, and if you’re looking for realism, you probably aren’t reading paranormals. This plot was well-conceived and the novel well-written. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
ETERNAL EVER AFTER by A. C. James is an erotic paranormal romance novel, the first full length novel in the EVER AFTER SERIES. Having already read a collection of short stories by this author that introduced these characters and this world, I was excited to finally get to read a novel that explored one of them in deeper detail. James didn’t disappoint. The characters we met and loved in the short story collection make appearances in this first novel, but we get an intimate look at Arie, an ancient vampire. And I do mean intimate.
Arie is a vampire who finds himself drawn to Holly, a waitress at a coffee shop, who reminds him of Katarina, an ex-lover. Someone he and everyone else would like to forget. Arie’s an enigma to Holly—part refined gentleman, part restrained power—but one hundred percent passion. She’s a puzzle he can’t solve, and she can’t help him, because she doesn’t know her history either—her mother died giving birth to her, and she grew up in foster care. Between the two of them, they discover she’s not only a seer (which makes her a hot commodity in the supernatural world), she’s a witch. A very powerful one. When Katarina comes crashing back into their lives, she comes with a vengeance, tormenting Holly and leaving a trail of dead bodies in her wake. Not only is Holly in danger, the whole vampire race is in danger of being revealed to humans. Arie and the Council of Sanguis have to put an end to her before Holly is killed and vampires exposed. A plan is put in place, using Holly as bait. But Katarina steals the protection amulet that Holly’s godmother gives her, the one she made her promise to wear after she had a vision of her death. Can Arie and the Council protect Holly from his psychopathic ex-lover?
This novel has explicit sex in it, including some BDSM scenes. There are none of the typical BDSM protocols (such as safe words and contracts) put in use, which is addressed in the introduction, but still discomforting given it is Holly’s introduction to the world and some readers skip intros. Still, that’s no reason to dislike a book, unless you are looking for realism, and if you’re looking for realism, you probably aren’t reading paranormals. This plot was well-conceived and the novel well-written. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
June 2, 2015
I was recommended this by a friend and I was not sure of it when I read the synopsis - This book contains erotic paranormal romance with light bdsm and other adult themes, but I am so glad that she did, as I really enjoyed the storyline and getting to know the characters. This is also the first book that I have read by A.C. James and it won't be my last.
Holly is a 22 year old who works as a waitress in a quiet coffee shop, she is glad that it is a quiet shop as she has the ability to see visions - past, present or future happenings when she touches people (she has the sight or she is known as a Seer), so her life can be interesting shall we say because she can see what people are thinking when they touch her so it is hard to have a relationship as when she gets skin contact - the visions start.
Arie Cush is an ancient vampire and he is drawn to Holly and her aura and keeps frequenting the coffee shop most days so that he can see her. Holly reminds him of his ex lover Katarina, someone he and other people would like to forget as she is mad and dangerous.
Holly is also drawn to Arie and when he reveals what he is, she does not freak like he expected her too, Arie does not want to get involved with Holly because he knows that she will get hurt because he can not seem to move on because of the way Katarina was, but they end up not being able to deny the hot passion that burns between them and things take their course. Holly is then introduced the the Hell Fire Club and Arie's other friends and of course BDSM.
This is when the jealous Katarina shows her face again and threatens Holly because she is in a relationship with Arie and things start to get nasty and Katarina starts causing havoc and nearly revealing that there are vampires to humans, and that can not happen, so a plan is hatched to stop her.
I do not want to reveal too much of the story but if you like vampires, witches, faeries and other supernatural creatures, romance, and a good story line then I would definitely recommend this book for you.
Holly is a 22 year old who works as a waitress in a quiet coffee shop, she is glad that it is a quiet shop as she has the ability to see visions - past, present or future happenings when she touches people (she has the sight or she is known as a Seer), so her life can be interesting shall we say because she can see what people are thinking when they touch her so it is hard to have a relationship as when she gets skin contact - the visions start.
Arie Cush is an ancient vampire and he is drawn to Holly and her aura and keeps frequenting the coffee shop most days so that he can see her. Holly reminds him of his ex lover Katarina, someone he and other people would like to forget as she is mad and dangerous.
Holly is also drawn to Arie and when he reveals what he is, she does not freak like he expected her too, Arie does not want to get involved with Holly because he knows that she will get hurt because he can not seem to move on because of the way Katarina was, but they end up not being able to deny the hot passion that burns between them and things take their course. Holly is then introduced the the Hell Fire Club and Arie's other friends and of course BDSM.
This is when the jealous Katarina shows her face again and threatens Holly because she is in a relationship with Arie and things start to get nasty and Katarina starts causing havoc and nearly revealing that there are vampires to humans, and that can not happen, so a plan is hatched to stop her.
I do not want to reveal too much of the story but if you like vampires, witches, faeries and other supernatural creatures, romance, and a good story line then I would definitely recommend this book for you.
December 4, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you enjoy tortured vampire romance (with some erotica thrown in), this is the book for you. It is jam-packed with a paranormal/paranormal relationship that is primarily slowed down by the vampire’s desire to protect the girl from his evil ways.
This book follows Holly, an average young girl, except for the fact that she is a “seer” and gets glimpses of the future when she touches people. Obviously, this put a bit of damper on her love life throughout the years. Arie is a vampire with oodles of baggage. Drawn to Holly because of her resemblance to her most recent ex (and her pretty gold aura), he ends up at the coffee shop she works at more days than not. In an effort to protect her from his insane ex, he enters her life reluctantly. Arie constantly struggles to find a balance between protecting her and keeping her safe from the insanity that comes with a vampire’s life.
The story in this book ends in a bit of a cliffhanger, which indicates that there are many more books to be written. The world was filled with enough interesting characters to keep the series going for a little while, without it being forced into a formulaic serial. Arie and Holly’s story was a good start to this new series.
If you enjoy tortured vampire romance (with some erotica thrown in), this is the book for you. It is jam-packed with a paranormal/paranormal relationship that is primarily slowed down by the vampire’s desire to protect the girl from his evil ways.
This book follows Holly, an average young girl, except for the fact that she is a “seer” and gets glimpses of the future when she touches people. Obviously, this put a bit of damper on her love life throughout the years. Arie is a vampire with oodles of baggage. Drawn to Holly because of her resemblance to her most recent ex (and her pretty gold aura), he ends up at the coffee shop she works at more days than not. In an effort to protect her from his insane ex, he enters her life reluctantly. Arie constantly struggles to find a balance between protecting her and keeping her safe from the insanity that comes with a vampire’s life.
The story in this book ends in a bit of a cliffhanger, which indicates that there are many more books to be written. The world was filled with enough interesting characters to keep the series going for a little while, without it being forced into a formulaic serial. Arie and Holly’s story was a good start to this new series.
January 22, 2014
Holy Hell!! I have never really been a fan of Vampire books, but I am A fan Of A.C. James! Can I just say that I too would be falling over to be with Arie Cush, I mean shoot he is one sexy as hell vamp! I love that this story is not all flowers and pretty things, it's Hot, Steamy and has a story to it. Dare I say that I would also consider it a thriller? Holly has been from foster to foster and was adopted at sixteen by her last foster family. At twenty-two Holly works at a coffee shop and is infatuated with a handsome customer who comes in regularly. Arie Cush is also infatuated with Holly but only wants to adore her from afar. Holly has some magical powers and Arie is a vampire.. what happens when they start to feel and danger comes lurking their way? I said it earlier but I will say it again... I LOVE THIS BOOK! The sex scenes were HOT and I think I am in love with Tessa.. LOL I don't wanna give too much away but let's just say I will continue to read vampire books if they are anything like this one! I cannot wait to jump into Cursed Ever After. Arie and Holly are freakin HOT! Poor Arie doesn't know that he's created a sex monster! LOL I love you A.C. for this book and I give it 5 stars! ~Chris
April 26, 2015
3.5 stars
Holly is a pretty cool supernatural being once we find out what she is and can do. Arie is a sexy dominating vamp (most of the time). Their scenes were steamy and left me wanting more.
I wanted to love this book, but for me, it was kind of hard to follow. I felt like it started to flow well, and then just stopped and switched subjects or stuttered while continuing on the same subject.
Holly was contradictory in my opinion. Maybe it was the first person POV that threw me off. One minute she would say how scared she was, but then it would seem that she was indifferent to a lot of things that would frighten most. She knows next to nothing about herself and family due to growing up by herself in the "system". She is a loner and has almost no friends. She accepts Arie and what he is very easily. Even though she may have questions, she doesn't ask many.
Arie is distant and it's understandable considering what happened in his past. I just wished the communication between all of the parties involved was a little bit clearer.
I didn't dislike the book, however, it did leave me with some uncertainties. I am curious as to what happens after the events of this book and I will be reading the next one.
Holly is a pretty cool supernatural being once we find out what she is and can do. Arie is a sexy dominating vamp (most of the time). Their scenes were steamy and left me wanting more.
I wanted to love this book, but for me, it was kind of hard to follow. I felt like it started to flow well, and then just stopped and switched subjects or stuttered while continuing on the same subject.
Holly was contradictory in my opinion. Maybe it was the first person POV that threw me off. One minute she would say how scared she was, but then it would seem that she was indifferent to a lot of things that would frighten most. She knows next to nothing about herself and family due to growing up by herself in the "system". She is a loner and has almost no friends. She accepts Arie and what he is very easily. Even though she may have questions, she doesn't ask many.
Arie is distant and it's understandable considering what happened in his past. I just wished the communication between all of the parties involved was a little bit clearer.
I didn't dislike the book, however, it did leave me with some uncertainties. I am curious as to what happens after the events of this book and I will be reading the next one.
October 28, 2014
Not bad. I did audio, not reading, and the audio wasn't the best, so that may have scewed my results. The audiobook was very kinda monotone and I couldn't tell when she was thinking or talking. Also there was no voice distinction, so I sometimes could not tell who was talking. Perhaps if I had read it, instead, my rating would be better. I loved the 0.5 book I read, so it must be the audio. The writing was simplistic, not hard to understand, but almost seemed forced or pushy.
The one major peeve I had about the book was the snap done ending. I love a book that leads up to the horror, or the end scene, or the fight scene, or the climax (no pun intended), etc,... but it was like the bad guy was in the background. It also seemed like Holly trusted Arie really fast.. and didn't seem at all perplexed, or worried, or concerned that every mythological creature except werewolves are real... Odd?
Just some parts I would have liked to have seen fleshed out more and not put in the background for sex scenes. Other than that, it was a good, fast read that didn't take much to think on.
The one major peeve I had about the book was the snap done ending. I love a book that leads up to the horror, or the end scene, or the fight scene, or the climax (no pun intended), etc,... but it was like the bad guy was in the background. It also seemed like Holly trusted Arie really fast.. and didn't seem at all perplexed, or worried, or concerned that every mythological creature except werewolves are real... Odd?
Just some parts I would have liked to have seen fleshed out more and not put in the background for sex scenes. Other than that, it was a good, fast read that didn't take much to think on.
August 7, 2014
I enjoyed this book and have never read A.C. James and liked the influence he used. Vampires are usually sexy and hot!! Some are crazy and Katarina is just plain crazy! Off the rocker crazy. Arie and Holly are fighting an attraction for each other and outside influences do not help matters. The fact that Arie has an ex that is willing to kill her to get to him brings drama that neither care for. Holly is thrust into a world that she never knew existed. Having visions and seeing things that no one else can has always seem to bring her heartaches. She learned at a young age to keep things to herself. She is different and knows this, but can't figure out who or what she is. With Arie and his friends at her side Holly learns a lot about herself. When dreams and visions have her wierded out and death seems close. Does her love for Arie conquer all! Well I think I might keep following this author and read the next in this series. The lovin in this book was hot!! I would have liked a little more push amd pull between the two main characters. All is well and I wonder where this author will take us next.
I received this ARC via Net Galley for my honest review. Thanks Net Galley!
I received this ARC via Net Galley for my honest review. Thanks Net Galley!
February 1, 2015
Eternal Ever After is about is about a Vampire love story with some BDSM thrown in the mix. I personally did not care for the narrator. I felt like the narrator just did not get into the story and give the story justice that it deserved, though he did have a nice voice for the character Arie. I usually lean toward female narrators when I listen to audios but that is just a personal choice. The author had done an amazing job writing the story.
Arie Cush who is a hot sexy Alpha Vampire who finds himself interested in a human by the name of Holly Ellis who is a seer. He enjoys going into the coffee shop watching her from day today. Holly reminds Arie of someone from his pass.
Holly who becomes interested in Arie who is watching her cannot help but ask questions to find out more about him. She did not know that asking questions would cause her to be introduced to a whole new world of the supernatural and put her life in danger by a psychotic ex.
A actual loved the story. It is about a deep undying love. Listening to how their love grows is heartwarming, plus I find the BDSM scene total hot..LOL
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good supernatural read
Arie Cush who is a hot sexy Alpha Vampire who finds himself interested in a human by the name of Holly Ellis who is a seer. He enjoys going into the coffee shop watching her from day today. Holly reminds Arie of someone from his pass.
Holly who becomes interested in Arie who is watching her cannot help but ask questions to find out more about him. She did not know that asking questions would cause her to be introduced to a whole new world of the supernatural and put her life in danger by a psychotic ex.
A actual loved the story. It is about a deep undying love. Listening to how their love grows is heartwarming, plus I find the BDSM scene total hot..LOL
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good supernatural read
February 5, 2015
Clairvoyant Witches and Vampires! Holly is working at a small coffee shop barely getting by when Arie staets coming in everyday and watching her work while drinking coffee. When they finally start talking she finds out that Arie is a vampire and her aura is what initially drew him to her. Arie also tells her that he was once in love with another woman with the same unusual powers. Holly is a clairvoyant and a witch. Arie has Holly move in with him when Katarina, the woman he turned into a vampire, and once loved, starts killing people in Chicago. In order to trap Katarina and stop her from revealing the existance of vampires to the world, Holly is convinced to play bait for the trap. When Katarina shows up at the clubs gala event and tries to kill Holly. Instead of Holly being killed, she manages to cast a spell to kill Katarina and she is turned into a vampire.
This is a fantastic book, obviously there is so much more than this short review can even begin to cover. A must read with some BDSM, romance, vampires, witches and fairies. Great book!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
This is a fantastic book, obviously there is so much more than this short review can even begin to cover. A must read with some BDSM, romance, vampires, witches and fairies. Great book!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
February 8, 2015
I read this book in audio format via audible.com. I always choose audio whenever possible as they make great road companions and allow me to be hands free to do other things while I read.
Great story! I enjoyed listening to this book. The plot was great, the excitement is there. The paranormal is definitely there! We have romance, suspense, thrills and holy hotness!
Ari is a really old vampire. He lost his mate many years ago and has never found another. One day he see Holly and he is drawn to her. Holly reminds him so much of his lost love. She even looks like the picture. Ari also senses something supernatural about Holly.
There is a bad vampire who wants Holly dead and does everything she can to kill her. Ari won't let Holly out of his sight. You will have to read the book to see what happens next! It's exciting, romantic, dangerous....
The author, A C James did a great job writing this story. It had everything I would look for in a paranormal read. The narrator, Mike Paine did a good job, but a part of me really thinks a woman should have read this book, or at least partnered in it. All in all, it still a very good read.
Great story! I enjoyed listening to this book. The plot was great, the excitement is there. The paranormal is definitely there! We have romance, suspense, thrills and holy hotness!
Ari is a really old vampire. He lost his mate many years ago and has never found another. One day he see Holly and he is drawn to her. Holly reminds him so much of his lost love. She even looks like the picture. Ari also senses something supernatural about Holly.
There is a bad vampire who wants Holly dead and does everything she can to kill her. Ari won't let Holly out of his sight. You will have to read the book to see what happens next! It's exciting, romantic, dangerous....
The author, A C James did a great job writing this story. It had everything I would look for in a paranormal read. The narrator, Mike Paine did a good job, but a part of me really thinks a woman should have read this book, or at least partnered in it. All in all, it still a very good read.
July 22, 2016
A humorous, loving, protective vampire. That's Arie. He walks into the coffee shop where Holly works, and keeps coming back. She is intrigued by him. But he has a painful past, tied to a woman who looks a lot like Holly. I loved Holly's acceptance of Arie. From the first moment she finds out he is a vampire she is not afraid. In fact she pushes him to act on his desires for her when he is hesitant. The sex scenes between these two burn up the sheets. Holly has a special ability which has stopped her from having close relationships. With Arie her ability isn't a problem, and she fully embraces her growing love for him, and even enters the BDSM life style. Even when a psychotic vampire targets her, she puts herself in harms way to catch the vampire. Holly learns more about her past and that she has supernatural powers she never knew about. I can't wait to see what happens next as she learns to use them. Arie loves Holly, but has not loved anyone for a long time. He has to get over his last love, and the regrets he feels. He must move on with Holly, because her life depends on it.
February 7, 2017
Because I read other books from this writer which I liked very much I decided to give this series a try too. I am not regretting it.
Arie is a vampire with a dark past. He is interested in Holly because of her aura and the way she looks like his ex.
But this ex is back and more evil as in the past and she wants to punish Arie with killing Holly. So Arie is protecting her. I like the way Holly is still standing up for herself, but also attracted to Arie and the life style of the vampire's in the club.
The last night is a gala night. Will everything go okay?
For that you have to read the book, you won't regret it.
Arie is a vampire with a dark past. He is interested in Holly because of her aura and the way she looks like his ex.
But this ex is back and more evil as in the past and she wants to punish Arie with killing Holly. So Arie is protecting her. I like the way Holly is still standing up for herself, but also attracted to Arie and the life style of the vampire's in the club.
The last night is a gala night. Will everything go okay?
For that you have to read the book, you won't regret it.
February 9, 2017
This book has some good ideas in it, but the writing doesn't draw you into the characters enough to care. In some areas I almost felt like I had missed a page or a paragraph as the author seemed to gloss over reactions, or skip forward, or missed obvious places for embellishment. I got the box set, but I'm not even interested in reading the next book. (I probably will though, because it's there.)
February 14, 2015
This was a paranormal erotic romance of vampires and a human witch by the name of Holly Ellis who didn't realize she was a witch but she new she was clairvoyant she met a man Arie Cush at her job the the Grind which was a coffee shop that he frequent everyday he wanted to be with Holly but he she didn't know what he was one evening when her tire was flat on her car Arie appeared to change it for her from then on he was always around when she wasn't expecting him to be and her car wouldn't start one night and he took her home and they kind of started a relationship that he didn't really wont because she reminded of someone he was in love with a long time ago and didn't know how to deal with Holly but Holly decided that she wanted him and wouldn't give up on him under any circumstances. It goes from romance to murder mystery before it ends. This was a very interesting story and the characters were just as interesting also. The author A.C. James did an excellent job. There is a box set available.
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