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Cin Craven #2
Grave Sins
a witch and a vampire
352 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2009
About the author
Jenna Maclaine
11 books204 followersJenna Maclaine has a BA in history from North Georgia College & State University. When she isn't writing she spends her time caring for the 80+ animals that share her family farm in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 18, 2010
I have recently fallen in love with a new heroine.
Cin Craven is such a great heroine, and my favorite thing about this series is that she and her consort Michael stay faithful to each other. You don't get that too often in a UF series.
It's 1828, it's been about 14 yrs since the first book, since Cin died/became a vampire. In the beginning we see Cin taking her yearly 2 week long vacation back in her home to visit her family. What we see (that is usually touched upon but never utilized) Cin keeping ties to her human life. She has kept her ancestral home, and is still involved with her best friend and almost sister Fiona. I'm sure we all have a girl in our lives who we'd call sister, but we aren't actually related by blood...that's Cin and Fiona-they grew up together and when Cin "died" she left her estate to Fiona. Well, by now Fiona has her own children, but Cin stays in their lives. what we see is how in keeping the ties to her old life, Cin feels she can hold on to her humanity as well. Throughout this series we see Cin watching her family grow older, and in some cases die.
Now, while Cin is on vacation, a vampire named Drake shows up and tells them that they (the Righteous) must go see if the queen of the Western Lands is truly mad and slaughtering humans, or if something else is going on. The problem? The king and queen are incredibly powerful. so off to Edinburgh, Scotland to see if Marrakesh is indeed mad.
Well, their problems are much more than just a mad queen. I can't say without spoiling it big time, so I'll just say that things are NEVER what they seem.
A big thing I like here, is that Cin and Michael have real relationship issues. They are along the lines of jealousy and possessiveness. I love seeing that incorporated into the series without actually ruining the relationship.
I liked how the ending was a bit of a surprise to me as far as HOW it was done...I think I'd figured out WHO early on. Not enough to spoil it for me, but it kept me guessing, and I just hoped it was who I thought it was (this is hard to not put names, so I'm sorry if it's confusing).
So the pages turned as quickly as I could without missing anything, and Cin's wit and snark were there in spades:
This is about grave robbers, ...the man had offended my sense of decency. I was a vampire and I respected the sanctity of holy ground. Was that too much to ask of humans as well?
There are a few important parts that refer to a time spent in Venice. Now I know there's another Cin Craven short story in Strange Brew, and I think that's the "time" and the recap I keep getting in this one. It talks about a wizard who captured Cin and tried to force her to the Dark Side. I mention this for 2 reasons: 1-so you'll know there is another short out there, and 2-so you see that her "dark side" is VERY important to this story.
I suggest this series to anyone and everyone. I mainly suggest that you read them in order!
Each story starts with the year, so go by that, not the publication date. Next up is Bound By Sin, and then the short story in the anthology Huntress-it's called "Sin Slayer."
Cin Craven is such a great heroine, and my favorite thing about this series is that she and her consort Michael stay faithful to each other. You don't get that too often in a UF series.
It's 1828, it's been about 14 yrs since the first book, since Cin died/became a vampire. In the beginning we see Cin taking her yearly 2 week long vacation back in her home to visit her family. What we see (that is usually touched upon but never utilized) Cin keeping ties to her human life. She has kept her ancestral home, and is still involved with her best friend and almost sister Fiona. I'm sure we all have a girl in our lives who we'd call sister, but we aren't actually related by blood...that's Cin and Fiona-they grew up together and when Cin "died" she left her estate to Fiona. Well, by now Fiona has her own children, but Cin stays in their lives. what we see is how in keeping the ties to her old life, Cin feels she can hold on to her humanity as well. Throughout this series we see Cin watching her family grow older, and in some cases die.
Now, while Cin is on vacation, a vampire named Drake shows up and tells them that they (the Righteous) must go see if the queen of the Western Lands is truly mad and slaughtering humans, or if something else is going on. The problem? The king and queen are incredibly powerful. so off to Edinburgh, Scotland to see if Marrakesh is indeed mad.
Well, their problems are much more than just a mad queen. I can't say without spoiling it big time, so I'll just say that things are NEVER what they seem.
A big thing I like here, is that Cin and Michael have real relationship issues. They are along the lines of jealousy and possessiveness. I love seeing that incorporated into the series without actually ruining the relationship.
I liked how the ending was a bit of a surprise to me as far as HOW it was done...I think I'd figured out WHO early on. Not enough to spoil it for me, but it kept me guessing, and I just hoped it was who I thought it was (this is hard to not put names, so I'm sorry if it's confusing).
So the pages turned as quickly as I could without missing anything, and Cin's wit and snark were there in spades:
This is about grave robbers, ...the man had offended my sense of decency. I was a vampire and I respected the sanctity of holy ground. Was that too much to ask of humans as well?
There are a few important parts that refer to a time spent in Venice. Now I know there's another Cin Craven short story in Strange Brew, and I think that's the "time" and the recap I keep getting in this one. It talks about a wizard who captured Cin and tried to force her to the Dark Side. I mention this for 2 reasons: 1-so you'll know there is another short out there, and 2-so you see that her "dark side" is VERY important to this story.
I suggest this series to anyone and everyone. I mainly suggest that you read them in order!
Each story starts with the year, so go by that, not the publication date. Next up is Bound By Sin, and then the short story in the anthology Huntress-it's called "Sin Slayer."
December 16, 2008
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release Feb09
I read and reviewed Jenna Maclaine’s first book “Wages of Sin”. When I did, I said I was looking forward to her next book and was interested to see where her characters were going. Well, “Grave Sins” was just as enjoyable for me as the first one and even with the glut of paranormals on the market today, I think Maclaine offers something a bit different and well worth the read.
It’s been 13 years since Cin ‘died’ and became a vampire in early 1800s England. In that time, she’s grown into her abilities as a vampire and her powers as a witch. She and her ‘consort’ Michael are part of ‘the Righteous’—a foursome that acts as a kind of FBI to vampiredom. They seek out those who break vampire law and dispense the vampire High King’s justice. One of the biggest vamp rules is the prohibition against killing humans and the automatic sentence is death. Cin has also instituted an annual ‘vacation’ where she visits her old home and humans she’s closest to for two weeks every year. No killing, no fighting…just rest, lots of sex, and reminders of her past humanity. But this year, their vacation is interrupted by a special envoy from the High King. The vampire Queen of the Western Lands has been accused of killing humans and the High King has requested Cin’s group determine the validity of the claims and carry out the sentence if required. Of course, when you receive a request from the High King, it’s not something you refuse, so off they go.
I won’t give the plot away, but suffice to say that this second book in Maclaine’s series provides a lot more information about vampire government and customs and the local ‘pecking orders’. This story has a few interesting twists and a bit of a mystery. The relationship between Cin and Michael sees some rocky moments. The question of who is killing the humans must be resolved. Cin’s witchy human aunt even has a role in furthering the plot and Cin’s growth in her powers. There’s also a goddess, a werewolf, and a mysterious dumb blonde (is that an oxymoron?) involved.
The story is told in first person from Cin’s perspective, but that didn’t result in any information gaps for me. The flow and pace were smooth and the jokes and descriptions of ‘old’ and ‘new’ fashions were rather humorous considering. The mystery was interesting in that I had a good idea of the who, but no idea of the why or how…and I liked that the author surprised me when she laid out the solution. The sex between Cin and Michael is hot even though it isn’t by any means the focus of the story, but the decisions and reactions of these two certainly aided the unfolding of the plot. I had such a good time reading, the time flew by and I wasn’t ready for the book to end. At least there was a sneak peek of “Mortal Sins”, the next tale in the series, at the end of this book. If history, the paranormal, a bit of romance, and mystery interest you…check out “Grave Sins” by Jenna Maclaine. I’m sure glad I did.
I read and reviewed Jenna Maclaine’s first book “Wages of Sin”. When I did, I said I was looking forward to her next book and was interested to see where her characters were going. Well, “Grave Sins” was just as enjoyable for me as the first one and even with the glut of paranormals on the market today, I think Maclaine offers something a bit different and well worth the read.
It’s been 13 years since Cin ‘died’ and became a vampire in early 1800s England. In that time, she’s grown into her abilities as a vampire and her powers as a witch. She and her ‘consort’ Michael are part of ‘the Righteous’—a foursome that acts as a kind of FBI to vampiredom. They seek out those who break vampire law and dispense the vampire High King’s justice. One of the biggest vamp rules is the prohibition against killing humans and the automatic sentence is death. Cin has also instituted an annual ‘vacation’ where she visits her old home and humans she’s closest to for two weeks every year. No killing, no fighting…just rest, lots of sex, and reminders of her past humanity. But this year, their vacation is interrupted by a special envoy from the High King. The vampire Queen of the Western Lands has been accused of killing humans and the High King has requested Cin’s group determine the validity of the claims and carry out the sentence if required. Of course, when you receive a request from the High King, it’s not something you refuse, so off they go.
I won’t give the plot away, but suffice to say that this second book in Maclaine’s series provides a lot more information about vampire government and customs and the local ‘pecking orders’. This story has a few interesting twists and a bit of a mystery. The relationship between Cin and Michael sees some rocky moments. The question of who is killing the humans must be resolved. Cin’s witchy human aunt even has a role in furthering the plot and Cin’s growth in her powers. There’s also a goddess, a werewolf, and a mysterious dumb blonde (is that an oxymoron?) involved.
The story is told in first person from Cin’s perspective, but that didn’t result in any information gaps for me. The flow and pace were smooth and the jokes and descriptions of ‘old’ and ‘new’ fashions were rather humorous considering. The mystery was interesting in that I had a good idea of the who, but no idea of the why or how…and I liked that the author surprised me when she laid out the solution. The sex between Cin and Michael is hot even though it isn’t by any means the focus of the story, but the decisions and reactions of these two certainly aided the unfolding of the plot. I had such a good time reading, the time flew by and I wasn’t ready for the book to end. At least there was a sneak peek of “Mortal Sins”, the next tale in the series, at the end of this book. If history, the paranormal, a bit of romance, and mystery interest you…check out “Grave Sins” by Jenna Maclaine. I’m sure glad I did.
November 17, 2010
Ms. Maclaine I
you!
I sat down to start reading Grave Sins and didn’t get up till I was finished. It was that fantastic.
The second Chapter in Maclaine's magical adventure series kicks off with Cin and Michael trying to have a vacation. When a murder mystery is thrown their way they have to end their holiday abruptly and head to the scene of the crime.
The trip turns heated and threatens to tear Michael and Cin apart at every turn while the mystery remains unsolvable.
Im pretty sure my stomach plummeted when I read this paragraph -
' They were walking down the street, talking earnestly to each other, much as Justine and I had been, when they passed a prostitute lounging against the pole of one of the gaslights. From distance her features were indiscernible, but she did have an incredibly impressive bosom that filled the bodice of what passed as a gown to overflowing. And Michael looked. Devlin walked past her without blinking an eye, but Michael, my michael, turned and looked.'
I felt like my perfect couple were falling apart.
The story had a clever plot with a variety of twists keeps the pace brisk, and future exploits are foreshadowed. This is a terrifically entertaining blend of magic, passion and adventure.
I continue to love how Cin is powerful, protective and toxic. A redhead witch made vampire...whose motive is to protect those she loves, and keep the peace so she can just freaking go on vacation!
This story has action, romance and mystery, really a who dunnit story which I throughly enjoyed.
you!I sat down to start reading Grave Sins and didn’t get up till I was finished. It was that fantastic.
The second Chapter in Maclaine's magical adventure series kicks off with Cin and Michael trying to have a vacation. When a murder mystery is thrown their way they have to end their holiday abruptly and head to the scene of the crime.
The trip turns heated and threatens to tear Michael and Cin apart at every turn while the mystery remains unsolvable.
Im pretty sure my stomach plummeted when I read this paragraph -
' They were walking down the street, talking earnestly to each other, much as Justine and I had been, when they passed a prostitute lounging against the pole of one of the gaslights. From distance her features were indiscernible, but she did have an incredibly impressive bosom that filled the bodice of what passed as a gown to overflowing. And Michael looked. Devlin walked past her without blinking an eye, but Michael, my michael, turned and looked.'
I felt like my perfect couple were falling apart.
The story had a clever plot with a variety of twists keeps the pace brisk, and future exploits are foreshadowed. This is a terrifically entertaining blend of magic, passion and adventure.
I continue to love how Cin is powerful, protective and toxic. A redhead witch made vampire...whose motive is to protect those she loves, and keep the peace so she can just freaking go on vacation!
This story has action, romance and mystery, really a who dunnit story which I throughly enjoyed.
December 31, 2010
This series is just a heck of a lot of fun. In this book, we got to find more out about the intricacies of vampire society. We got to see how Cin has found her place with The Righteous, and we got to meet a vampire king and queen. And we even got to see some more of Woof.
What I think I enjoyed best was seeing Cin and Michael work out their relationship. They utterly love each other, but as the newlywed-style passion wears away, they have to get down to the nitty-gritty of making a relationship - one that could literally last for eternity - work. This is something we almost never get to see in PNR / UF, and I thought it was fabulous. I really enjoyed watching 2 people who are utterly loyal to each other work through the inevitable kinks in any relationship.
And this series has a cast that I just adore all-around. Devlin and Juliana are magnificent (and I wouldn't be at all opposed to books that place them more towards the center), and there are plenty of others in the supporting cast that I have really grown to love.
The author seems to have a concrete end-game in mind, which she is steering towards with Morrigan. I can't wait to see what she has planned.
What I think I enjoyed best was seeing Cin and Michael work out their relationship. They utterly love each other, but as the newlywed-style passion wears away, they have to get down to the nitty-gritty of making a relationship - one that could literally last for eternity - work. This is something we almost never get to see in PNR / UF, and I thought it was fabulous. I really enjoyed watching 2 people who are utterly loyal to each other work through the inevitable kinks in any relationship.
And this series has a cast that I just adore all-around. Devlin and Juliana are magnificent (and I wouldn't be at all opposed to books that place them more towards the center), and there are plenty of others in the supporting cast that I have really grown to love.
The author seems to have a concrete end-game in mind, which she is steering towards with Morrigan. I can't wait to see what she has planned.
July 17, 2020
Great book! After reading this, it has me wanting to read more paranormal. I haven't read the first book but would like to see how the series starts. Cin Craven is a strong heroine and I love that she's a witch and a vampire.
February 16, 2011
4.5 Stars
I really liked this one and prefer it a little bit more to the first one, maybe because we already the characters and aren't learning about a new world. Although I thought it was fairly obvious who the culprit was I still enjoyed the mystery and though I guessed most things there were still a few suprises. I liked that this went it to Cin and Micheal's relationship more and you got to see them as a couple, although they don't quite have the intensity of Cat and Bones from the Night Hunress series they are still a great couple.
I really liked this one and prefer it a little bit more to the first one, maybe because we already the characters and aren't learning about a new world. Although I thought it was fairly obvious who the culprit was I still enjoyed the mystery and though I guessed most things there were still a few suprises. I liked that this went it to Cin and Micheal's relationship more and you got to see them as a couple, although they don't quite have the intensity of Cat and Bones from the Night Hunress series they are still a great couple.
August 19, 2017
It helps to read the short story in the anthology Strange Brew called "Dark Sins" before reading this installment.
November 14, 2011
There are not words to describe how much I despise that plot of "Let's introduce new characters and make the main couple think there's cheating going on." I hate how authors play around with such a serious topic. Cheating hurts everyone and I don't like worrying about characters I have put my trust in. I want to believe in the idea that a couple can trust each other unequivically. I want to believe that they believe in each other. I think that's why cheating bothers me so much, or even the idea of cheating. Or maybe it's because I don't like sharing, period. And I don't like having to let my characters fret about the possibility that their S.O. is not playing fair, and sharing with who he/she shouldn't. So, because of my backlog of issues, I did not give this book much of my time. I read the first few chapters, got a very bad suspicion, skipped to the middle, had suspicion confirmed, got pissed, and read the ending. I am still not satisfied with this book. At all. I am not a happy camper about this series right now. So it may be a while before I recover enough to return. In the meantime, I will ponder my abandonment issues, possessiveness, jealousy, paranoia, and all the other fun stuff that combines to make me. Maybe I will work through them and get to the point where I can handle the lack of trust in my books, but really. Why bother? I rather like how I am now. So, goodbye for now, Michael and Cin. I'll come back to you in a few years.
April 3, 2010
I really enoyed this 2nd book in the series. The author had a captive audience with me, I was on the edge of my seat to find out what would happen next.
Cin, our heroine, is a vampire and a powerful witch. She is forced to use dark black magic deeply hidden inside her to save someone she loves.
Her feelings are compounded by a dark, very old and mysterious vampire that arrives on her doorstep with a job for THE RIGHTOUS. Cin finds herself at a crossroads in this novel, not sure what direction to take.
The Rightous must journey to see a vampire king and queen of the western lands and decide someones fate, too protect the innocent and deliver justice by death's blow. Cin, Michael, Justine and Devlin must be on thier guard at all times,things aren't quite what they seem...
Cin, our heroine, is a vampire and a powerful witch. She is forced to use dark black magic deeply hidden inside her to save someone she loves.
Her feelings are compounded by a dark, very old and mysterious vampire that arrives on her doorstep with a job for THE RIGHTOUS. Cin finds herself at a crossroads in this novel, not sure what direction to take.
The Rightous must journey to see a vampire king and queen of the western lands and decide someones fate, too protect the innocent and deliver justice by death's blow. Cin, Michael, Justine and Devlin must be on thier guard at all times,things aren't quite what they seem...
January 2, 2019
one of my very favourite series that i can read time and again. i absolutely love every story and the audio books are some of the best i have listened to - the voice seems to perfectly encapsulate the stories. the novellas add so much background and are definitely not just filler. a really great combination of witch, vampire and demon with just a little werewolf, some ghosts and gods .. plenty of action, plenty of romance and a lot of family
2/1/19 - I absolutely lament the fact that there was not more to this series. I love every word and this is a series I will continue to read over and over again
2/1/19 - I absolutely lament the fact that there was not more to this series. I love every word and this is a series I will continue to read over and over again
February 19, 2009
Awesome book! Looking forward to the next one!!
December 29, 2010
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December 17, 2018
I love this series - book 2 was even better than book 1!!
Honestly, I love everything about these characters and the world they live in. There is a perfect balance of character development, suspenseful action/adventure/mystery, and a little bit of romance.
This book, which takes place 13 years after book 1 ends, gave Cin an opportunity to grow into her new role and life as a hybrid vampire/witch, and part of The Righteous. She is now a force to be reckoned with all on her own, but as part of the quartet of The Righteous she totally kicks ass!
There's some dangerous stuff going on with one of the Kings of the Vampire territories, and The Righteous have been summoned to figure out what's going on, and who, if anyone, needs to get dead over it.
There are hints about who's responsible if you like to play sleuth. Me, I am happy to just go along for the ride and wait for the reveal. And this book is an excellent ride!
Seriously, if paranormal action [with some romance] is your thing, this is a GREAT series, highly recommended!
Honestly, I love everything about these characters and the world they live in. There is a perfect balance of character development, suspenseful action/adventure/mystery, and a little bit of romance.
This book, which takes place 13 years after book 1 ends, gave Cin an opportunity to grow into her new role and life as a hybrid vampire/witch, and part of The Righteous. She is now a force to be reckoned with all on her own, but as part of the quartet of The Righteous she totally kicks ass!
There's some dangerous stuff going on with one of the Kings of the Vampire territories, and The Righteous have been summoned to figure out what's going on, and who, if anyone, needs to get dead over it.
There are hints about who's responsible if you like to play sleuth. Me, I am happy to just go along for the ride and wait for the reveal. And this book is an excellent ride!
Seriously, if paranormal action [with some romance] is your thing, this is a GREAT series, highly recommended!
April 9, 2020
Another good read, historical fiction paranormal, nice for a change. The characters are well developed, good story line, with some unexpected twists and turns. Not a cliffhanger, but builds on the last story. Very well written.
November 1, 2024
I defiantly liked this one better than the first! Way more action!
August 31, 2011
Second in the Cin Craven romantic urban-fantasy series.
The Story
The purpose of The Righteous is to preserve law and order throughout the vampiric lands and as such, The Righteous comes under the authority of the High King in Ireland. One of those laws is that no vampire may kill a human for fear of coming to the attention of humans. It seems that Marrakesh, the Queen to MacLeod's King of the Western Lands, is guilty of breaking that law for 17 men have died, albeit under mysterious circumstances, and the queen was seen delivering one of those men to Dr. Knox for purposes of dissection.
Their assignment is delivered only five days into Cin, Michael, Devlin, and Justine's two-week holiday at Ravensworth so you can imagine how upset Cin is about this. Even worse, she doesn't particularly like Drake, the High King's messenger.
The Characters
Cin Craven is obviously our heroine. She's also a witch turned vampire and a member of The Righteous. The other vampire members of the Righteous include Michael, Cin's lover/consort; Devlin, and Justine.
Drake is also a vampire and the representative of the High King. When this combined with the fact that Drake was once a King, you know he's got some serious street cred. Of course, he and Michael had a falling out some years ago and now Drake is after Cin.
MacLeod is the King of the Western Lands, vampire that is and Marrakesh is his wife, another vampire but one with a serious gift you do not want to run afoul of. They live in Edinburgh in a very nice townhouse (hey, what can I say? I don't write this stuff). Khalid and Hashim are twins of Arabic descent whom Marrakesh befriended early in their lives. And, hoo, boy, have these three got a story to tell! Jacques Aubert is the Warden of Edinburgh with an eye to everything and everyone for the MacLeod.
Belinda is a dip of a vampire with some very deep plans who is fleeing her husband, Captain Sinclair of the vampiric cruise line, Blood Cross Lines
Tristan Mahone is a necromancer fleeing from his father, the Reverend Mahone of Jamaica.
Mary Margaret "Aunt Maggie" Macgregor is Cin's aunt as well as the Macgregor Witch. A position/title inherited when Cin's mother, the eldest sister, married and moved to England. Drummond Murray is gamekeeper for the Macgregor and was the werewolf Cin freed 13 years ago when she first became a vampire in Wages of Sin. He's come to Edinburgh to warn Cin of her aunt's intentions.
My Take
Oh brother, I've been suspecting this character forever. I can't believe Cin or anyone else never saw this coming!
What?? She's not sure if she can open the locks so Cin doesn't even try!?? Considering the seconds it took, it would have been worth it…duh… Then there's Clarissa being murdered in her cell and supposedly Hashim didn't hear or see a thing. Well, as the ending indicates, there was plenty of action going on that something happened in that cell and I can't believe Hashim could avoid all of it!
Then I don't believe that Cin got so pissy about Michael checking out a whore's bosom. As Justine says, "he is still a man". This just felt so manufactured. Cin certainly hasn't a leg to stand on morally. Michael has already informed her of Drake's thirst for vengeance against Michael so Cin proceeds to flirt with the guy? A guy she doesn't even like though she does admit he's a tempting bit of eye candy. Just how dimwitted can Cin be?
Then Cin talks about vacations. It's 1828. The people at her level in society "went on holiday" not "vacation". Jesus. I thought Maclaine had a degree in History?? And what's the deal with the four of them allowing Bel into one of their planning sessions? What? They've cleared her already? They don't care if she goes about babbling of everything they discuss? How hard is it to shove someone back out through a door and then shut it?
Okay, the concept Maclaine has going is cute and I certainly love Michael and Cin and Devlin and Justine together going about smiting the wrong and protecting the right but, please, stop thinking we're idiots!
The Cover
Sorry, I don't believe this cover. Yes, I believe it's Cin. I don't believe the dress or the Craven Cross pendant. The necklace is supposed to include some huge rubies and the dress looks like something a Vegas showgirl would wear. I might believe the knife she's holding while the background of bars enclosing the cemetery is very believable.
The title, Grave Sins can apply to a variety of situations in this story including Cin's sins of withholding to the grave robbing done by the Resurrectionists…hey, it's Edinburgh.
The Story
The purpose of The Righteous is to preserve law and order throughout the vampiric lands and as such, The Righteous comes under the authority of the High King in Ireland. One of those laws is that no vampire may kill a human for fear of coming to the attention of humans. It seems that Marrakesh, the Queen to MacLeod's King of the Western Lands, is guilty of breaking that law for 17 men have died, albeit under mysterious circumstances, and the queen was seen delivering one of those men to Dr. Knox for purposes of dissection.
Their assignment is delivered only five days into Cin, Michael, Devlin, and Justine's two-week holiday at Ravensworth so you can imagine how upset Cin is about this. Even worse, she doesn't particularly like Drake, the High King's messenger.
The Characters
Cin Craven is obviously our heroine. She's also a witch turned vampire and a member of The Righteous. The other vampire members of the Righteous include Michael, Cin's lover/consort; Devlin, and Justine.
Drake is also a vampire and the representative of the High King. When this combined with the fact that Drake was once a King, you know he's got some serious street cred. Of course, he and Michael had a falling out some years ago and now Drake is after Cin.
MacLeod is the King of the Western Lands, vampire that is and Marrakesh is his wife, another vampire but one with a serious gift you do not want to run afoul of. They live in Edinburgh in a very nice townhouse (hey, what can I say? I don't write this stuff). Khalid and Hashim are twins of Arabic descent whom Marrakesh befriended early in their lives. And, hoo, boy, have these three got a story to tell! Jacques Aubert is the Warden of Edinburgh with an eye to everything and everyone for the MacLeod.
Belinda is a dip of a vampire with some very deep plans who is fleeing her husband, Captain Sinclair of the vampiric cruise line, Blood Cross Lines
Tristan Mahone is a necromancer fleeing from his father, the Reverend Mahone of Jamaica.
Mary Margaret "Aunt Maggie" Macgregor is Cin's aunt as well as the Macgregor Witch. A position/title inherited when Cin's mother, the eldest sister, married and moved to England. Drummond Murray is gamekeeper for the Macgregor and was the werewolf Cin freed 13 years ago when she first became a vampire in Wages of Sin. He's come to Edinburgh to warn Cin of her aunt's intentions.
My Take
Oh brother, I've been suspecting this character forever. I can't believe Cin or anyone else never saw this coming!
What?? She's not sure if she can open the locks so Cin doesn't even try!?? Considering the seconds it took, it would have been worth it…duh… Then there's Clarissa being murdered in her cell and supposedly Hashim didn't hear or see a thing. Well, as the ending indicates, there was plenty of action going on that something happened in that cell and I can't believe Hashim could avoid all of it!
Then I don't believe that Cin got so pissy about Michael checking out a whore's bosom. As Justine says, "he is still a man". This just felt so manufactured. Cin certainly hasn't a leg to stand on morally. Michael has already informed her of Drake's thirst for vengeance against Michael so Cin proceeds to flirt with the guy? A guy she doesn't even like though she does admit he's a tempting bit of eye candy. Just how dimwitted can Cin be?
Then Cin talks about vacations. It's 1828. The people at her level in society "went on holiday" not "vacation". Jesus. I thought Maclaine had a degree in History?? And what's the deal with the four of them allowing Bel into one of their planning sessions? What? They've cleared her already? They don't care if she goes about babbling of everything they discuss? How hard is it to shove someone back out through a door and then shut it?
Okay, the concept Maclaine has going is cute and I certainly love Michael and Cin and Devlin and Justine together going about smiting the wrong and protecting the right but, please, stop thinking we're idiots!
The Cover
Sorry, I don't believe this cover. Yes, I believe it's Cin. I don't believe the dress or the Craven Cross pendant. The necklace is supposed to include some huge rubies and the dress looks like something a Vegas showgirl would wear. I might believe the knife she's holding while the background of bars enclosing the cemetery is very believable.
The title, Grave Sins can apply to a variety of situations in this story including Cin's sins of withholding to the grave robbing done by the Resurrectionists…hey, it's Edinburgh.
February 21, 2012
4,5 stars
The second book of Cin Crave. You can read the review of the first book here :
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26...
Take place 13 years after the event of Wages of Sin. Dulcinea Macgregor Craven, once human, now she is a vampire, change her name to Cin Craven. With her lover, a Scotland soldier when he still alive, Michael a.k.a Devil's Archangel, her close friend, opera singer and once a mistress of King Louise, Justine, a.k.a Devil's Justice. And with their leader, Justine's lover, an English Knight Devlin. They're all known as The Righteous. A band of vampire that deliver justice and punish rogue vampires and those that againts The High King's law.
When Cin spend her time with her human friend Fiona, at her old home, a man visit him. He is Drake, a High King's sentinel and bring an assigment. Drake want Cin to insvetigating murder case that had done by Queen of The Western Land, Marakesh. That's mean, Cin must leave London and go to Edinburgh. A place where King and Queen of The Western Land rule.
After she arrived at Edinburgh, Cin meet Macleod, Marakesh's husband and also King of The Wester Land, with his loyal guards Hasim and Khalid. Cin had guess that Marakesh is guilty over murder case at Edinburgh. But MacLeod not believe her, he still think his wife is innocent. When wandering in the castle Cin met Marakesh. Bound and delusional. That's when Cin know someone cast a magic at MacLeod's castle...
Cin's investigation don't do well. MacLeod still believe his wife is innocent, his guards act suspiciously, and Cin don't know who the magician that hold the castle. Not to forget how Drake try to seduce her over and over, make Michael jealous. Things getting worse when Cin accidentally use her black magic when see Michael fight with vampires that attack MacLeod's castle. Michael, Justine and Devlin are affraid and worried with Cin's safety after she use her magic.
Cin and Michael's relationship are rocky, especially after Michael see Drake embrace Cin (even actually he hold her when Cin fall from the stair). So Michael decide to go to calm himself with Belinda, MacLeod's guest.Of course that make Cin's heart broke...
Is it true Marakesh is a killer? If not who the real culprit? Who the magician that can't be detect by Cin? Can Cin control her black magic? Then, the most important, can Cin and Michael mend their relationship?
This book is better than the first. We can see how Cin's character is develop from a mere Viscount daughter to a new born vampire, then become vampire and witch. Her relationship with Michael is up and down. Michael think he not deserve Cin, since in the past he just a gardener (even he make it into Scotland's soldier), and Cin is noble, so they fight because of that. But Michael is the ideal lover for Cin. He's not too tall (just 5 ft 10 inch) but his sword skill that make his enemy afraid of him. And of course with his appearance,,with his dark blonde hair and his piercing eyes, that make Cin melt when see Michael ;)). And their making love scene is sooo passionate, make me want to fanning myself.
We will know about vampire hierarchy at Europe. Where they divide Europe into 2 place, Western and Eastern. We also will know about Marakesh's past, and later it will help Cin to mend her relationship with Michael. Who's the culprit and the conspiracy that vampires do at MacLeod's castle.
If you like vampire, historical setting, witch, ass kick heroine, sexy hero, read this series. ASAP!
Sin|6453485]
The second book of Cin Crave. You can read the review of the first book here :
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26...
Take place 13 years after the event of Wages of Sin. Dulcinea Macgregor Craven, once human, now she is a vampire, change her name to Cin Craven. With her lover, a Scotland soldier when he still alive, Michael a.k.a Devil's Archangel, her close friend, opera singer and once a mistress of King Louise, Justine, a.k.a Devil's Justice. And with their leader, Justine's lover, an English Knight Devlin. They're all known as The Righteous. A band of vampire that deliver justice and punish rogue vampires and those that againts The High King's law.
When Cin spend her time with her human friend Fiona, at her old home, a man visit him. He is Drake, a High King's sentinel and bring an assigment. Drake want Cin to insvetigating murder case that had done by Queen of The Western Land, Marakesh. That's mean, Cin must leave London and go to Edinburgh. A place where King and Queen of The Western Land rule.
After she arrived at Edinburgh, Cin meet Macleod, Marakesh's husband and also King of The Wester Land, with his loyal guards Hasim and Khalid. Cin had guess that Marakesh is guilty over murder case at Edinburgh. But MacLeod not believe her, he still think his wife is innocent. When wandering in the castle Cin met Marakesh. Bound and delusional. That's when Cin know someone cast a magic at MacLeod's castle...
Cin's investigation don't do well. MacLeod still believe his wife is innocent, his guards act suspiciously, and Cin don't know who the magician that hold the castle. Not to forget how Drake try to seduce her over and over, make Michael jealous. Things getting worse when Cin accidentally use her black magic when see Michael fight with vampires that attack MacLeod's castle. Michael, Justine and Devlin are affraid and worried with Cin's safety after she use her magic.
Cin and Michael's relationship are rocky, especially after Michael see Drake embrace Cin (even actually he hold her when Cin fall from the stair). So Michael decide to go to calm himself with Belinda, MacLeod's guest.Of course that make Cin's heart broke...
Is it true Marakesh is a killer? If not who the real culprit? Who the magician that can't be detect by Cin? Can Cin control her black magic? Then, the most important, can Cin and Michael mend their relationship?
This book is better than the first. We can see how Cin's character is develop from a mere Viscount daughter to a new born vampire, then become vampire and witch. Her relationship with Michael is up and down. Michael think he not deserve Cin, since in the past he just a gardener (even he make it into Scotland's soldier), and Cin is noble, so they fight because of that. But Michael is the ideal lover for Cin. He's not too tall (just 5 ft 10 inch) but his sword skill that make his enemy afraid of him. And of course with his appearance,,with his dark blonde hair and his piercing eyes, that make Cin melt when see Michael ;)). And their making love scene is sooo passionate, make me want to fanning myself.
We will know about vampire hierarchy at Europe. Where they divide Europe into 2 place, Western and Eastern. We also will know about Marakesh's past, and later it will help Cin to mend her relationship with Michael. Who's the culprit and the conspiracy that vampires do at MacLeod's castle.
If you like vampire, historical setting, witch, ass kick heroine, sexy hero, read this series. ASAP!
Sin|6453485]
September 2, 2022
First of all, to be honest, I was a bit disappointed in this story. While it was entertaining and I enjoyed it for the most part, the mystery part of it was entirely predictable. Nothing surprised me in this book and for that I was disappointed.
This story takes place in 1828, 13 years after the first book and 10 years after the novella Dark Sins that's in the Strange Brew anthology. In this story, Cin and the Righteous are brought to Edinburgh, Scotland because the vampire queen of the Western lands is suspected for murdering humans and also seems to be going crazy. They must solve who the true villain is so that the queen won't be banished to the Dark Castle.
Now, like I said above, this story was painfully predictable. I mean, I had this solved by page fifty, it was that bad. The fact that it took them so long to solve it was honestly pathetic and it made me dislike Cin and the Righteous a little bit. I think though, it wasn't the characters fault. Jenna Maclaine made this one really obvious in my mind and I think she could have done with keeping a bit of the mystery along the way so that it would have been a bit more of a surprise, or should I say a surprise at all. I was honestly hoping the whole book that I was wrong and that something unpredictable would end up happening, but no.
I was also disappointed in Cin and Michael's relationship in this one. I just got through reading Destined for an Early Grave from the Night Huntress series. In that one my favorite couple is fighting like crazy. Then, I get into this one and Cin and Michael are at odds as well! It was terribly bad timing for me and although it wasn't as serious and heartbreaking as Destined for an Early Grave, it was a bit annoying since I just read that one.
Overall though, I found the story to be entertaining enough, but I didn't like it as much as the last book. Even though the last book didn't have a ton of surprises, it didn't seem like it was trying to be a mystery like this book was. I think that Maclaine should stick to the action and keep so much of a mystery out of it, because this was terrible as a mystery.
This story takes place in 1828, 13 years after the first book and 10 years after the novella Dark Sins that's in the Strange Brew anthology. In this story, Cin and the Righteous are brought to Edinburgh, Scotland because the vampire queen of the Western lands is suspected for murdering humans and also seems to be going crazy. They must solve who the true villain is so that the queen won't be banished to the Dark Castle.
Now, like I said above, this story was painfully predictable. I mean, I had this solved by page fifty, it was that bad. The fact that it took them so long to solve it was honestly pathetic and it made me dislike Cin and the Righteous a little bit. I think though, it wasn't the characters fault. Jenna Maclaine made this one really obvious in my mind and I think she could have done with keeping a bit of the mystery along the way so that it would have been a bit more of a surprise, or should I say a surprise at all. I was honestly hoping the whole book that I was wrong and that something unpredictable would end up happening, but no.
I was also disappointed in Cin and Michael's relationship in this one. I just got through reading Destined for an Early Grave from the Night Huntress series. In that one my favorite couple is fighting like crazy. Then, I get into this one and Cin and Michael are at odds as well! It was terribly bad timing for me and although it wasn't as serious and heartbreaking as Destined for an Early Grave, it was a bit annoying since I just read that one.
Overall though, I found the story to be entertaining enough, but I didn't like it as much as the last book. Even though the last book didn't have a ton of surprises, it didn't seem like it was trying to be a mystery like this book was. I think that Maclaine should stick to the action and keep so much of a mystery out of it, because this was terrible as a mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2011
I like this book better then the first one - but there were a few holes in it that bothered me -
I know sometimes when I'm reading I will skim over some of the details of how her Aunt is dressed today - or what the garden reminds her of from when she was 8 years old -
And sometimes I"ll skim over flashbacks in the middle of the book that may seem a little more important - but usually isn't - I skim it - I don't skip it -
Slight spoiler ...
Reading the first book I did this in a few places too - but NO WHERE in the book did it mention anything about Morrigan - the Goddess who created her - gave her Michael etc ... but she mentions Her Frequentily in this book - and even has a conversation with her - something I don't reamember at ALL with the first book - maybe I did skim over it or got too drowsy when I was reading and lost sight of it ... but I would thing I would remember something liek that -
They also do this whole bit at the end with the Templar Vampire - and they go on and on like we already know the mythical story af this Vampire/Boat?? I don't know - just seemed a little off there.
OK back to the review :)
It seems to me I should start skipping the 2nd book to every series - I can't count how many books I have read where the 2nd book in the series the couple ALWAYS has a fight and takes a few chapters of "thinking the worse" just about Every series I have read does this - and I am a sucker for a broken heart because I cry everytime :)
Cin and Michael have troubles ... He starts to doubt her - and then she feels guilty for doing nothing about it - and of course it takes a life threatening adventure to get everything back together :) But it's worth it :)
When they go into battle with the Rouge Vampires - something spikes in Cin's magic - another thing that was a little sketchy in the book - she did tell the story about 10 years ago when she battled with Gage - but the details were sketchy but perminate to her situation - I think Ms Maclaine should have gone into a whole flashback chapter to discribe that instead of her thoughts flashbacked :)
So yeah - things heat up and wind down - then fire up again when the conclusion falls into place - once again the ending was a bit rushed - I think they could have played it out a few more chapters - the bad guys were distracted by an argument they were having ??? ummm more important matters ..... PRISIONERS?!??! duh :) but it worked out - and it had a good ending .
I know sometimes when I'm reading I will skim over some of the details of how her Aunt is dressed today - or what the garden reminds her of from when she was 8 years old -
And sometimes I"ll skim over flashbacks in the middle of the book that may seem a little more important - but usually isn't - I skim it - I don't skip it -
Slight spoiler ...
Reading the first book I did this in a few places too - but NO WHERE in the book did it mention anything about Morrigan - the Goddess who created her - gave her Michael etc ... but she mentions Her Frequentily in this book - and even has a conversation with her - something I don't reamember at ALL with the first book - maybe I did skim over it or got too drowsy when I was reading and lost sight of it ... but I would thing I would remember something liek that -
They also do this whole bit at the end with the Templar Vampire - and they go on and on like we already know the mythical story af this Vampire/Boat?? I don't know - just seemed a little off there.
OK back to the review :)
It seems to me I should start skipping the 2nd book to every series - I can't count how many books I have read where the 2nd book in the series the couple ALWAYS has a fight and takes a few chapters of "thinking the worse" just about Every series I have read does this - and I am a sucker for a broken heart because I cry everytime :)
Cin and Michael have troubles ... He starts to doubt her - and then she feels guilty for doing nothing about it - and of course it takes a life threatening adventure to get everything back together :) But it's worth it :)
When they go into battle with the Rouge Vampires - something spikes in Cin's magic - another thing that was a little sketchy in the book - she did tell the story about 10 years ago when she battled with Gage - but the details were sketchy but perminate to her situation - I think Ms Maclaine should have gone into a whole flashback chapter to discribe that instead of her thoughts flashbacked :)
So yeah - things heat up and wind down - then fire up again when the conclusion falls into place - once again the ending was a bit rushed - I think they could have played it out a few more chapters - the bad guys were distracted by an argument they were having ??? ummm more important matters ..... PRISIONERS?!??! duh :) but it worked out - and it had a good ending .
June 2, 2012
“Grave Sins” by Jenna Maclaine
Once again Cin Craven and the Righteous are called into action to help find the truth and bring justice to all humans, vampires and all other magical kind. Cin Craven is part of the Righteous along with her gorgeous consort Micheal, and her friends. Cin and her friends are called upon to investigate a Queen named Marrakesh who has gone mad and is being accused of killing humans. The Highest King of Vampires forbids all vampires to kill humans and wants Marrakesh brought to justice because he thinks that she is guilty. Cin has a feeling that Marrakesh is innocent and she must do whatever is takes to find out who is killing humans and pointing the killings towards the Queen. If Cin and her friends can not find the killers, Marrakesha will either be killed or locked up away at Castle Tara for the rest of her life.
Unfortunately this is not the only problem that Cin will face. Her relationship with Micheal will be tested like never before. Jealously will spark anger within Micheal when his rival enemy starts making passes at Cin. Aunt Maggie will also try and take Cins powers away as she now thinks that her niece is evil and does accept that she is now a vampire. How on earth can Cin Craven figure out how to catch a killer and keep her lover from leaving her? Find out what happens by reading this exciting book my Jenna Maclaine.
This is the second book in Jenna Maclaine's series called “A Cin Craven Series”. “Grave Sins” is full of passion and thrills. Relationships will be tested to there limits and magic will used for good and bad. This is a not a book to be missed!
5 Hearts Out Of 5
Reviewed by Victoria Heart-HistoricalRomanceBooks.ca
Visit my Website at http://www.historicalromancebooks.ca
Once again Cin Craven and the Righteous are called into action to help find the truth and bring justice to all humans, vampires and all other magical kind. Cin Craven is part of the Righteous along with her gorgeous consort Micheal, and her friends. Cin and her friends are called upon to investigate a Queen named Marrakesh who has gone mad and is being accused of killing humans. The Highest King of Vampires forbids all vampires to kill humans and wants Marrakesh brought to justice because he thinks that she is guilty. Cin has a feeling that Marrakesh is innocent and she must do whatever is takes to find out who is killing humans and pointing the killings towards the Queen. If Cin and her friends can not find the killers, Marrakesha will either be killed or locked up away at Castle Tara for the rest of her life.
Unfortunately this is not the only problem that Cin will face. Her relationship with Micheal will be tested like never before. Jealously will spark anger within Micheal when his rival enemy starts making passes at Cin. Aunt Maggie will also try and take Cins powers away as she now thinks that her niece is evil and does accept that she is now a vampire. How on earth can Cin Craven figure out how to catch a killer and keep her lover from leaving her? Find out what happens by reading this exciting book my Jenna Maclaine.
This is the second book in Jenna Maclaine's series called “A Cin Craven Series”. “Grave Sins” is full of passion and thrills. Relationships will be tested to there limits and magic will used for good and bad. This is a not a book to be missed!
5 Hearts Out Of 5
Reviewed by Victoria Heart-HistoricalRomanceBooks.ca
Visit my Website at http://www.historicalromancebooks.ca
August 14, 2009
Magic, murder and mystery, Cin is in trouble again. Only this time it's not quite her fault. Dulcie "Cin" Cravan is visiting her human relatives at her former home (Ravenworth Hall) while on vacation from her duties as one of The Righteous, when the Sentinel of the High King, Drake, arrives with a mission. Drake explains they must visit the home of the Queen of the Western Lands, Marrakesh, to determine if the report of her braking vampiric law by killing humans is true. The Righteous knows Marrakesh's husband, King Macleod of the Western Lands, will not give her up without a fight. So they cut short the vacation and travel to see the Kind and Queen of the Western Lands.
Upon arrival, the Righteous are greeted with cold and unfreindly attitudes, because everyone knows who they are and why they are there. Marrakesh found to be a little off her rocker and the only witness to her 'crime' has been murdered in her locked cell. The King and Cin both beleive that magic might be involved in Marrakesh's madness. As such, inquires are made but the evidence just points back to the Queen and her twin bodyguards. While Cin is trying to ferret out the mystery, Drake is attempting to cause strife between her and Michael. Micheal, however, is acting like a jealous lover but blaming Cin at the same time. Meanwhile, bodies are turning up at the local college of medicine, the Werewolf she saved in the first book has shown up to warn her that her Aunt Maggie is coming to bind her powers and she still hasn't determined if the Queen is guilty or not. Can Cin solve this mystery before everything gets even more out of hand?
The sequel Wages of Sin is fun and fabulous. The story moves at a great pace, the action is believable, the magic is at times scary and delightful and the pratfalls are entertaining.
Upon arrival, the Righteous are greeted with cold and unfreindly attitudes, because everyone knows who they are and why they are there. Marrakesh found to be a little off her rocker and the only witness to her 'crime' has been murdered in her locked cell. The King and Cin both beleive that magic might be involved in Marrakesh's madness. As such, inquires are made but the evidence just points back to the Queen and her twin bodyguards. While Cin is trying to ferret out the mystery, Drake is attempting to cause strife between her and Michael. Micheal, however, is acting like a jealous lover but blaming Cin at the same time. Meanwhile, bodies are turning up at the local college of medicine, the Werewolf she saved in the first book has shown up to warn her that her Aunt Maggie is coming to bind her powers and she still hasn't determined if the Queen is guilty or not. Can Cin solve this mystery before everything gets even more out of hand?
The sequel Wages of Sin is fun and fabulous. The story moves at a great pace, the action is believable, the magic is at times scary and delightful and the pratfalls are entertaining.
July 8, 2010
Lots of fun! I really enjoyed Graves Sins as much as I did the first book in the series, The Wages of Sin, and I'm looking forward to Bound By Sin.
I like that this series is not very dark and doesn't seem to take itself too seriously. If you are a stickler for things like characters using language appropriate to the times they live in, though, you may be a little put off. In this case it doesn't bother me, because it seems to flow with the spirit of the story.
I feel I should also add that these books do smell a little like paranormal romance. I know that some of you out there are not into that kind of thing, and will appreciate the advance warning. Still, it's not like the plot revolves around her sex life. It seemed to me that this book had less sex in it than the first one, which makes me feel like the author is going in the right direction. Don't get me wrong, I luvs me some dirty sex in my books, but I always get a little nervous when it comes to paranormal romance. One minute the heroine can be kicking ass, and the next minute some dude is rubbing her nipples with his tentacles or something equally disgusting! *Shudder* Thankfully, it doesn't look like this series is going to go down that path.
I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fast, fun, interesting read that has a healthy dose of action, mystery, and romance.
I like that this series is not very dark and doesn't seem to take itself too seriously. If you are a stickler for things like characters using language appropriate to the times they live in, though, you may be a little put off. In this case it doesn't bother me, because it seems to flow with the spirit of the story.
I feel I should also add that these books do smell a little like paranormal romance. I know that some of you out there are not into that kind of thing, and will appreciate the advance warning. Still, it's not like the plot revolves around her sex life. It seemed to me that this book had less sex in it than the first one, which makes me feel like the author is going in the right direction. Don't get me wrong, I luvs me some dirty sex in my books, but I always get a little nervous when it comes to paranormal romance. One minute the heroine can be kicking ass, and the next minute some dude is rubbing her nipples with his tentacles or something equally disgusting! *Shudder* Thankfully, it doesn't look like this series is going to go down that path.
I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fast, fun, interesting read that has a healthy dose of action, mystery, and romance.
February 18, 2012
I really enjoyed the first book quite a lot, but I loved this book! Cin is a character I love. She's kick ass but knows right from wrong. She's not at all struggling with what she is (a witch and a vampire) since 13 years have passed and I kind of enjoyed that. She does have some struggles regarding some of her witch powers, but it's a minor element to the story really. And her and Michaels relationship is great because after that many years you fall into a kind of familiarity but they still have the spark and the strong attraction toward eachother. And they actually do run into trouble in this one but it's nice to see they are human (well, not really) and do have weaknesses.
The mystery was pretty good and I felt like I really wasn't sure who or what the culprit was that was causing the queens 'illness'. I actually had some ideas of the who but I was kind of clueless how or what was going on. In the end as the mystery was revealed and all was figured out I was quite happy with how it all went.
This is one of those comfortable books. I didn't feel all stressed and tense while reading, but it kept me turning the pages and not wanting to put the book down. I wanted it to go on forever but it's actually a very fast read and I read most of it in one evening before bed. I want this series to go on forever because I really love every aspect of it. The characters, the setting and the story itself; it's all perfect! I very highly recommend you pick this series up!
This review was first posted on my blog at http://www.candacesbookblog.com
August 8, 2011
3.5 Stars
So I started this book and was a little confused and kept turning back pages whenever Venice was mentioned and the dark wizard fight. I felt like I'd missed a good sized portion of the story...which I did of course. I only found this out AFTER I finished the book though. There is a short story between books 1 and 2 called Dark Sins that apparently has this story in it. I'll admit it annoyed me to realize that reading that would have solved a lot of confusion. Anyway on with the review!
Hmmmm OK I liked this book, maybe not as much as the first. The basic plot is Cin and The Righteous are given a job, they are to investigate a vampire Queen as she is suspected of murdering humans. They get to the townhouse and Cin notices magic has been done recently which immediately seems suspicious and the Queen is having memory lapses.
What I didn't like about this book was all the petty squabbling between Cin and Michael, they both have some serious jealousy issues and of course both of them think the other should be apologizing. The ending also seemed to resolved it self too nicely for my taste. It seemed that everyone kind of got a slap on the wrist for bad behavior then sent on their way...which left me scratching my head a little. I also hated Bel and would have been more than happy to see her dead...but I may just be a little bloodthirsty. *Grin*
Overall it was a mediocre book compared to the first one. I'll definitely read the last one to find out how Cin is going to deal with the dark magic inside of her.
So I started this book and was a little confused and kept turning back pages whenever Venice was mentioned and the dark wizard fight. I felt like I'd missed a good sized portion of the story...which I did of course. I only found this out AFTER I finished the book though. There is a short story between books 1 and 2 called Dark Sins that apparently has this story in it. I'll admit it annoyed me to realize that reading that would have solved a lot of confusion. Anyway on with the review!
Hmmmm OK I liked this book, maybe not as much as the first. The basic plot is Cin and The Righteous are given a job, they are to investigate a vampire Queen as she is suspected of murdering humans. They get to the townhouse and Cin notices magic has been done recently which immediately seems suspicious and the Queen is having memory lapses.
What I didn't like about this book was all the petty squabbling between Cin and Michael, they both have some serious jealousy issues and of course both of them think the other should be apologizing. The ending also seemed to resolved it self too nicely for my taste. It seemed that everyone kind of got a slap on the wrist for bad behavior then sent on their way...which left me scratching my head a little. I also hated Bel and would have been more than happy to see her dead...but I may just be a little bloodthirsty. *Grin*
Overall it was a mediocre book compared to the first one. I'll definitely read the last one to find out how Cin is going to deal with the dark magic inside of her.
February 7, 2012
It took me awhile, but I finally got a hold of the 2nd book in the Cin Craven series by Jenna MacLaine! I was able to remember what happened previously, as there were hints of that in this 2nd novel.
This is a brief summary that hopefully doesn't give too much away!
Set in 1828, Cin Craven is a witch, vampire, and an immortal warrior who is a member of the Righteous - a group of vampires who carry out judgement and punishment for the High King of vampires. Cin is still a fairly young vampire, only turned 13 years prior by her lover & consort Michael, but she was chosen by the Goddess of the vampires Morrigan to wield a greater Dark Magic.
Just as they were only a few days on holiday, the Righteous are called in when Marrakesh, a half-mad vampire queen seems to have gone insane and might be killing humans, which is against vampire law. If guilty, she will pay with her life. Cin is convinced there's something else going on, and doesn't believe the queen is behind the murders. Complications arise that cause a rift between Cin and Michael, and finding the answers to the crime is not as straight forward as they are used to dealing with.
This was a captivating read! Loved the historical references, and a bit of Michael's own personal history pops up, as well. Vampire politics, murder mystery, romance, action, tensions, and some great characters all add up to a page turner! If you haven't read any of these books before, check out Wages of Sin to see how it all started!
This is a brief summary that hopefully doesn't give too much away!
Set in 1828, Cin Craven is a witch, vampire, and an immortal warrior who is a member of the Righteous - a group of vampires who carry out judgement and punishment for the High King of vampires. Cin is still a fairly young vampire, only turned 13 years prior by her lover & consort Michael, but she was chosen by the Goddess of the vampires Morrigan to wield a greater Dark Magic.
Just as they were only a few days on holiday, the Righteous are called in when Marrakesh, a half-mad vampire queen seems to have gone insane and might be killing humans, which is against vampire law. If guilty, she will pay with her life. Cin is convinced there's something else going on, and doesn't believe the queen is behind the murders. Complications arise that cause a rift between Cin and Michael, and finding the answers to the crime is not as straight forward as they are used to dealing with.
This was a captivating read! Loved the historical references, and a bit of Michael's own personal history pops up, as well. Vampire politics, murder mystery, romance, action, tensions, and some great characters all add up to a page turner! If you haven't read any of these books before, check out Wages of Sin to see how it all started!
April 8, 2010
Liked this story featuring The Righteous, vampire enforcers for the High King. Cin Craven is the youngest member of the team, a powerful vampire witch. Loved her relationship with her consort, the sexy Michael. The other two members of the team are also a couple, Devlin and Justine. Enjoyed the interactions between Cin and the rest of The Righteous, as they seemed like real friends who worked well together.
This wasn't your typical romance, as Cin and Michael are already a committed couple. Didn't think it was your usual urban fantasy either, so guess it's more of a mystery. Only trouble was, the mystery was only a mystery to The Righteous. I'm usually not very good at mysteries and hardly ever guess whodunit, so imagine my surprise when my guess turned out to be right! Got a little frustrated that this so-called crack team of enforcers were a little naive and took so long to discover what was what.
Gave this a 3/5 as while I did enjoy it, it was a little frustrating. Seemed to bounce between being a mystery and a romance, but couldn't make up it's mind on what genre it wanted to be. Just as the romance was heating up, it switched to the mystery aspect, then suddenly we're talking vampire history. I've read other books that can include several different aspects in the same story, but this one didn't really work for me. Still, it was an enjoyable story and I would definitely read more in the Cin Craven series.
This wasn't your typical romance, as Cin and Michael are already a committed couple. Didn't think it was your usual urban fantasy either, so guess it's more of a mystery. Only trouble was, the mystery was only a mystery to The Righteous. I'm usually not very good at mysteries and hardly ever guess whodunit, so imagine my surprise when my guess turned out to be right! Got a little frustrated that this so-called crack team of enforcers were a little naive and took so long to discover what was what.
Gave this a 3/5 as while I did enjoy it, it was a little frustrating. Seemed to bounce between being a mystery and a romance, but couldn't make up it's mind on what genre it wanted to be. Just as the romance was heating up, it switched to the mystery aspect, then suddenly we're talking vampire history. I've read other books that can include several different aspects in the same story, but this one didn't really work for me. Still, it was an enjoyable story and I would definitely read more in the Cin Craven series.
November 24, 2010
Synopsis: Cin, a witch/vampire, is a now member of The Righteous, a band of slayers that hunts down vampires who inflict evil upon the world. With Michael by her side, Cin’s latest mission brings her face-to-face with Marrakesh, a beautiful, half-mad vampire queen charged with slaughtering humans. If she’s found guilty, Marrakesh will pay with her life. But Cin is convinced that someone —or something—far more ruthless is trying to steal the queen’s throne.. It’s a mission that will pit Michael and Cin against each other for the first time, awakening their darkest instincts and testing their love like never before…
This book follows Cin and the Righteous as they look into reports that Marrakesh has killed human beings. The year is now 1828, and Cin has been a vampire for 13 years. Her relationship with Michael, her consort, has grown, but there will be plenty of obstacles for the couple as they make their way through a very puzzling investigation.
I'm embarrased to say that not enough people have read this series. It is a good series, with very likable characters. All of the Righteous work well together and they also do their jobs extremely well. I also didn't mind that I could see who the villian was a mile away. It's still a nice story.
There is an anthology series that has the beginnings of Devlin and Justine's relationship that is another must read. Justine was a highly skilled vampire slayer as a human to save her sister, who now refuses to see her.
This book follows Cin and the Righteous as they look into reports that Marrakesh has killed human beings. The year is now 1828, and Cin has been a vampire for 13 years. Her relationship with Michael, her consort, has grown, but there will be plenty of obstacles for the couple as they make their way through a very puzzling investigation.
I'm embarrased to say that not enough people have read this series. It is a good series, with very likable characters. All of the Righteous work well together and they also do their jobs extremely well. I also didn't mind that I could see who the villian was a mile away. It's still a nice story.
There is an anthology series that has the beginnings of Devlin and Justine's relationship that is another must read. Justine was a highly skilled vampire slayer as a human to save her sister, who now refuses to see her.
July 19, 2016
This starts out with an aborted vacation. Then, what should have been a quick and easy mission, becomes complicated and almost tears Cin and Michael apart. There’s several different problems happening in this mystery that could or could not be connected. It's hard to navigate between all the red herrings that keep popping up, but well worth it.
There's a lot of references to previous adventures and occurrences in the 13 years since Cin's changing. While I understand that every minute of their life can't be written, it seems like a lot of missed opportunities for some interesting books.
I found the reasons for Cin and Michael’s arguing to be a little petty. I know men are stupid but you'd think that after 13 years, he'd be a little more trusting particularly knowing it was Drake. Since their problems started the moment they arrived in Inverness, I expected there to be a magical cause, but I guess men don't need much to set them off. But he wonderfully redeems himself in the end,
Shallow, flirtatious Bel was a little too obvious as the villain, though they were some good surprises about her origin and her associate,(possibly an opportunity for a short story). And I'm glad we see Drum Murray again. He's cool. It would be great if they'd add him to their team.
Fave scenes: the story behind Marrakesh's tattoo, Michael and Cin's confrontation on the stairs and Cin releasing her dark magic.
There's a lot of references to previous adventures and occurrences in the 13 years since Cin's changing. While I understand that every minute of their life can't be written, it seems like a lot of missed opportunities for some interesting books.
I found the reasons for Cin and Michael’s arguing to be a little petty. I know men are stupid but you'd think that after 13 years, he'd be a little more trusting particularly knowing it was Drake. Since their problems started the moment they arrived in Inverness, I expected there to be a magical cause, but I guess men don't need much to set them off. But he wonderfully redeems himself in the end,
Shallow, flirtatious Bel was a little too obvious as the villain, though they were some good surprises about her origin and her associate,(possibly an opportunity for a short story). And I'm glad we see Drum Murray again. He's cool. It would be great if they'd add him to their team.
Fave scenes: the story behind Marrakesh's tattoo, Michael and Cin's confrontation on the stairs and Cin releasing her dark magic.
August 21, 2014
Cin's story continues years after the events of the previous book, with the Righteous being summoned to investigate a vampire queen that's supposedly gone crazy.
The bad guy was pretty obvious to me from the start and I got pretty frustrated waiting for Cin and the others to put the pieces together. .
To be fair Cin admits that she's distracted by the first serious friction in her relationship with Michael, and the things don't get any easier with the .
There's action, a realistic love story with its problems and an interesting world that I enjoyed revisiting.
Next in the series is Bound By Sin where hopefully we'll get some answers about the big picture that's been foreshadowed.
The bad guy was pretty obvious to me from the start and I got pretty frustrated waiting for Cin and the others to put the pieces together. .
To be fair Cin admits that she's distracted by the first serious friction in her relationship with Michael, and the things don't get any easier with the .
There's action, a realistic love story with its problems and an interesting world that I enjoyed revisiting.
Next in the series is Bound By Sin where hopefully we'll get some answers about the big picture that's been foreshadowed.
November 12, 2012
I really liked this but felt that I had missed something important. About 14 years have passed since the end of The Wages of Sin and the events of an incident in Venice are discussed but not explained. I just found out that that story was in an anthology called Strange Brew. Guess I'll have to get my hands on that so this story will make a little more sense.
I liked the fact that Michael and Sin were still in love and that everything wasn't hunky dorey...jealousy and possessiveness...just like with real people. This really made the story seem more believable. I figured out who the baddie was early on but the why kept me turning pages until the end. I thoroughly enjoyable story even without knowing what happened in Venice.
I liked the fact that Michael and Sin were still in love and that everything wasn't hunky dorey...jealousy and possessiveness...just like with real people. This really made the story seem more believable. I figured out who the baddie was early on but the why kept me turning pages until the end. I thoroughly enjoyable story even without knowing what happened in Venice.
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