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Cradle of Darkness #2
The Relic
“A luscious romance of intense, obsessive passion sprinkled with hilarity and wicked wit.” – Zoe Blake, USA TODAY bestselling author
Eternal, immortal love.
She died in his arms, but not before Vladislov exacted a vow that his soulmate must return to him. Reincarnate. Be reborn, so he might treasure his love throughout the everlasting eons of endless life.
She gave her word. Swore it with her last breath.
The oldest living vampire in existence has been patient, for what else is an immortal to do but wait? And wait. Growing less human and more monster as the centuries pass. Distracted by maintaining order amidst the failings of his ostentatious race, when he should have been vigilant.
For his beloved was reborn, left vulnerable. Snatched up by another. Hidden from him. Weakened, frightened, damaged.
She who he loves above all things cannot recognize the one who holds her in his arms. Cowers as if he’d bring her harm.
But fortitude he has in spades, and though Vlad had forgotten the sensation of love, his black heart beats again. For her. Forever.
His Pearl.
Publisher’s Note: The Relic is a standalone novel in the Cradle of Darkness series featuring in an HEA.
Eternal, immortal love.
She died in his arms, but not before Vladislov exacted a vow that his soulmate must return to him. Reincarnate. Be reborn, so he might treasure his love throughout the everlasting eons of endless life.
She gave her word. Swore it with her last breath.
The oldest living vampire in existence has been patient, for what else is an immortal to do but wait? And wait. Growing less human and more monster as the centuries pass. Distracted by maintaining order amidst the failings of his ostentatious race, when he should have been vigilant.
For his beloved was reborn, left vulnerable. Snatched up by another. Hidden from him. Weakened, frightened, damaged.
She who he loves above all things cannot recognize the one who holds her in his arms. Cowers as if he’d bring her harm.
But fortitude he has in spades, and though Vlad had forgotten the sensation of love, his black heart beats again. For her. Forever.
His Pearl.
Publisher’s Note: The Relic is a standalone novel in the Cradle of Darkness series featuring in an HEA.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2020
145 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Addison Cain
56 books4,531 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author and Amazon Top 25 bestselling author, Addison Cain is best known for her dark romances, smoldering paranormal suspense, and twisted alien worlds. Her antiheroes are not always redeemable, her lead females stand fierce, and nothing is ever as it seems.
Deep and sometimes heart wrenching, her books are not for the faint of heart. But they are just right for those who enjoy unapologetic bad boys, aggressive alphas, and a hint of violence in a kiss.
Visit her website: addisoncain.com
Sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/AddisonCainNewsletter
Amazon: amzn.to/2ryj4LH
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/AddisonCain
Bookbub Deals: www.bookbub.com/authors/addison-cain
Facebook Author Page: www.facebook.com/AddisonlCain/
Addison Cain’s Dark Longings Lounge Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/DarkLongingsL...
Don’t miss these exciting titles by Addison Cain!
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Born to be Bound
Born To Be Broken
Reborn
Stolen
Corrupted (coming soon)
Wren’s Song Series:
Branded
Silenced
The Irdesi Empire Series:
Sigil
Sovereign
Que (coming soon)
Cradle of Darkness
Catacombs
Cathedral
The Relic
A Trick of the Light Duet:
A Taste of Shine
A Shot in the Dark
Historical Romance:
Dark Side of the Sun
Horror:
The White Queen
Immaculate
Deep and sometimes heart wrenching, her books are not for the faint of heart. But they are just right for those who enjoy unapologetic bad boys, aggressive alphas, and a hint of violence in a kiss.
Visit her website: addisoncain.com
Sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/AddisonCainNewsletter
Amazon: amzn.to/2ryj4LH
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/AddisonCain
Bookbub Deals: www.bookbub.com/authors/addison-cain
Facebook Author Page: www.facebook.com/AddisonlCain/
Addison Cain’s Dark Longings Lounge Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/DarkLongingsL...
Don’t miss these exciting titles by Addison Cain!
The Golden Line
The Alpha’s Claim Series:
Born to be Bound
Born To Be Broken
Reborn
Stolen
Corrupted (coming soon)
Wren’s Song Series:
Branded
Silenced
The Irdesi Empire Series:
Sigil
Sovereign
Que (coming soon)
Cradle of Darkness
Catacombs
Cathedral
The Relic
A Trick of the Light Duet:
A Taste of Shine
A Shot in the Dark
Historical Romance:
Dark Side of the Sun
Horror:
The White Queen
Immaculate
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October 9, 2020Feast your eyes on the Prince of Darkness! Want to see the full NSFW image? Make sure you join my Newsletter list! http://bit.ly/2ydtlyj
Preorder THE RELIC Now ➤ https://amzn.to/3nynCfb
Preorder THE RELIC Now ➤ https://amzn.to/3nynCfb
November 19, 2020
I Was looking forward to getting some closure and happiness for poor Pearl especially with how we left her previously.
I loved catacombs so much but my heart also broke for Pearl’s unknown fate and I needed some serious closure after finishing that particular baby.
So this is a stand-alone read and definitely can be read as such I personally would read the prequel novella Catacombs as well as it will definitely give you some insight into Pearls own headspace after her liberation from her underground prison and nightmare existence.
So this is the story of Vladislov who is the creator and father of the whole vampire race.
He is the one who releases Pearl from her shackles setting her free and coaxing her back to life using his ancient blood to sate the day-Walkers hunger.
Pearl has a connection to Vladislov’s very soul and her heart beats to the tune of his.
She is bound to him through promises made and he has waited eons for her return.
This really was an interesting one with some very deep ideas and philosophies that were defiantly intriguing and certainly got me thinking.
This was also just the correct blend of darkness and light and Vlad himself was actually hilarious.
Injecting such fun and humour but still being so seriously scary when it was warranted.
Vlad is a definite law unto himself and makes no apologies for his behaviour.
He will always do whatever is necessary and Pearl is his exception.
To her, he can be kind and even patient but to all else he is lethality.
It’s only Pearl herself that gets to see a certain softer side to him and also see his true visage.
So yeh I really enjoyed this one a lot it was as usual well written and easily kept my attention throughout.
It had some fascinating and unexpected story directions, was also very imaginative and I totally appreciated the vibe it gave off.
I’m excited to experience more from this world in the future and the story has such potential in regards to story growth and where it could go next with the included characters.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of The Relic (Cradle Of Darkness #2).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
October 28, 2020
Yes I expect something deeply insane, seductive and wordings which I can't catch by reading once; this book leans more to horror and it's equally enchanting like Addison Cain's previous books. This book can be read as standalone (I know most of AC's favoured readers prefer her completed books because the series' are always disappointingly incomplete and I'm never reading AC's series unless it's complete) and the scenes does not feel left out if you haven't read the previous books from this series. This book is my first read from the series, the story is properly descriptive and gives us little details of what we are missing from the story but it's perfectly arranged and nicely blended for a standalone.
“Here you are, as gorgeous as I remember,” I murmured to her withered skull, gently placing my hip to the bed so her remains might not be disturbed. “How long I’ve waited. Countless centuries searching.”
Vladislov awaits the recarnation of his bride.
'Fate brought me into life mortal. Fate stole my soul. Fate was denied when I tied that soul to me with an unbreakable oath. And fate would be denied again when I conquered my bride’s fears and strengthened her body. She who had fucked fate herself by being born half immortal.
She was a defanged Daywalker.'
Pearl is a believer of God, the lines begins to blur when God and Devil are right in front of her.
“It takes practice to learn the role of wife. To be plucked from the garden and placed in the bed of a king. To discover the power you wield. How at the crook of your finger I would topple worlds. How at a kiss from my lips you’ll know pleasures that will make my name sing from your spirit.”
Debauchery explained so decriptively, a devoted and so in love husband, a defanged bride who tries to save her soul was everything. The next book is of Pearl's son, Jasper and yes it gives the same insane vibes.
“Here you are, as gorgeous as I remember,” I murmured to her withered skull, gently placing my hip to the bed so her remains might not be disturbed. “How long I’ve waited. Countless centuries searching.”
Vladislov awaits the recarnation of his bride.
'Fate brought me into life mortal. Fate stole my soul. Fate was denied when I tied that soul to me with an unbreakable oath. And fate would be denied again when I conquered my bride’s fears and strengthened her body. She who had fucked fate herself by being born half immortal.
She was a defanged Daywalker.'
Pearl is a believer of God, the lines begins to blur when God and Devil are right in front of her.
“It takes practice to learn the role of wife. To be plucked from the garden and placed in the bed of a king. To discover the power you wield. How at the crook of your finger I would topple worlds. How at a kiss from my lips you’ll know pleasures that will make my name sing from your spirit.”
Debauchery explained so decriptively, a devoted and so in love husband, a defanged bride who tries to save her soul was everything. The next book is of Pearl's son, Jasper and yes it gives the same insane vibes.
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November 15, 2019Please don't tell me this is yet another book/series being released, if it is someone needs to give this author an intervention.
December 10, 2019
Can someone tell me if this is another one of the author's incomplete series? I have no interest in getting wrapped up into another one. I do enjoy her writing but extremely frustrated with her habitual tendency of starting series with no end in sight. If this is the last one, I'll be happy to read it and give it a positive review if warranted. Thanks!
October 25, 2020
We first met Pearl in Catacombs. That book is purely horror and this one is a paranormal, twisted romance with a delicious HEA. First of all, I am a devoted Addison Cain reader so I anxiously awaited this ARC. I knew I’d love it so I eagerly jumped in and read this baby in one sitting.
Cain is a word wizard. I love her descriptive language and story pacing—really everything about her writing. This book is satisfying and oh-so deliciously dark. I loved Vlad so much because he patiently awaited his true love’s reincarnation and his humility despite being the lord-of-everything-darkness is a delightful juxtaposition. His method of blackmail to get her back was an excellent twist. I loved Pearl’s humanity and vulnerability. Cain’s heroines are always subtly powerful in their own right. Even though Pearl is relatively young and naive, she is an innately wise woman and she sees through Vlad’s ego and power plays. He’s loveable despite all of his flaws. I was so glad Pearl got her HEA. Five enthusiastic stars!
Cain is a word wizard. I love her descriptive language and story pacing—really everything about her writing. This book is satisfying and oh-so deliciously dark. I loved Vlad so much because he patiently awaited his true love’s reincarnation and his humility despite being the lord-of-everything-darkness is a delightful juxtaposition. His method of blackmail to get her back was an excellent twist. I loved Pearl’s humanity and vulnerability. Cain’s heroines are always subtly powerful in their own right. Even though Pearl is relatively young and naive, she is an innately wise woman and she sees through Vlad’s ego and power plays. He’s loveable despite all of his flaws. I was so glad Pearl got her HEA. Five enthusiastic stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2019
I have read every single book that she has written so far and I am looking so forward to this next one I can't wait her books are Extremely captivating, sexy, steamy,
I can’t get enough of the lust, love, drama ,secrets , lies
twists and turns, danger, betrayal and so much more!!!!!
I can’t get enough of the lust, love, drama ,secrets , lies
twists and turns, danger, betrayal and so much more!!!!!
October 24, 2020
When I need a darkly twisted but insanely seductive read that will completely sweep me away, I turn to Addison Cain. With Relic, as usual, she does not disappoint. Vlad is hilariously human at times, entirely evil, dramatically vicious, ruthless, horrifyingly callous, and utterly impossible to love... and yet you can't pull away from him either. He really is the devil that Pearl names him, beguiling even as he repulses. Be ready to dive in deep and be left reeling afterward.
November 14, 2020
I never thought I can be this disappointed by an AC's book. I can't believe I've waited a whole year for this shallow story. All that marketing for this?
Also since the books became pricier, I think they should be lengthier!
Also since the books became pricier, I think they should be lengthier!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2020
Holy hell.
The world-building that is done by this author continually blows my mind. This was a lot more light-hearted than I was expecting from her but still had a bit of the macabre and destruction that she is known to invoke in her stories. Except, it was different this go around and I enjoyed it. I, also, enjoyed the humor of watching Vlad woo Pearl instead of doing what his initial inclination was.
Even with the humor and lighter moments, one of the things that really stood out to me was that there were some discussions about faith, god, and the devil that made me posit what I think I know and what I actually do know in the grand scheme of things. There were some good points raised and it definitely made me relish my semester studying Paradise Lost when I was getting my degree. I have never been one to fall under believing that everything is black and white, especially when it comes to religion, so getting this twist in this book really made me take interest in the message that the author was wanting to portray in this book.
Don't let my ramblings about God and the Devil deter you from this book, they were well done and intricately woven into the story in such a fascinating way that it made it that much more intriguing. That is one of the many ways that I love this author. She is a master at what she does. I did want more of a resolution with Jade but other than that, I loved this story. It might not have been all decadent debauchery or darkness that is darker than 13 midnights, yet, it still is most definitely 100% Addison Cain. There is no one else like her.
The world-building that is done by this author continually blows my mind. This was a lot more light-hearted than I was expecting from her but still had a bit of the macabre and destruction that she is known to invoke in her stories. Except, it was different this go around and I enjoyed it. I, also, enjoyed the humor of watching Vlad woo Pearl instead of doing what his initial inclination was.
Even with the humor and lighter moments, one of the things that really stood out to me was that there were some discussions about faith, god, and the devil that made me posit what I think I know and what I actually do know in the grand scheme of things. There were some good points raised and it definitely made me relish my semester studying Paradise Lost when I was getting my degree. I have never been one to fall under believing that everything is black and white, especially when it comes to religion, so getting this twist in this book really made me take interest in the message that the author was wanting to portray in this book.
Don't let my ramblings about God and the Devil deter you from this book, they were well done and intricately woven into the story in such a fascinating way that it made it that much more intriguing. That is one of the many ways that I love this author. She is a master at what she does. I did want more of a resolution with Jade but other than that, I loved this story. It might not have been all decadent debauchery or darkness that is darker than 13 midnights, yet, it still is most definitely 100% Addison Cain. There is no one else like her.
October 22, 2020
Cain likes to keep things fresh that's for sure!
She's created the perfect balance of tantalizing darkness and blissful light. Coming together to capture the reader in a love story like none to date.
If you've read the previous stories you know Pearl's journey has been inflicted with the most depraved and horrendous acts one could imagine. Of any heroine you've read this one deserved peace and love the most.
Vladislov makes his appearance sporadically throughout the previous stories... Just enough to have the reader salivating for more. He enters center stage along Pearl in The Relic and you see into every crevice of him and who he is and how his mind works. One will have an extremely hard time not loving this monster even in all his gore and bloody armor.
I couldn't sit this book down once I started so fair warning... Not much adulting will take place once you start.
She's created the perfect balance of tantalizing darkness and blissful light. Coming together to capture the reader in a love story like none to date.
If you've read the previous stories you know Pearl's journey has been inflicted with the most depraved and horrendous acts one could imagine. Of any heroine you've read this one deserved peace and love the most.
Vladislov makes his appearance sporadically throughout the previous stories... Just enough to have the reader salivating for more. He enters center stage along Pearl in The Relic and you see into every crevice of him and who he is and how his mind works. One will have an extremely hard time not loving this monster even in all his gore and bloody armor.
I couldn't sit this book down once I started so fair warning... Not much adulting will take place once you start.
November 21, 2023
I was waiting to see how this one would turn out to decide whether or not I'd buy the physical series. Glad I waited because the only place this book is fit for is the trash. I've said this before (because Addison is not original in this) and I'll say it again, who wants to read about biblical figures with their smut? Not me, completely gets me out of the mood. She took power figures and weakened them, portrayed them as weak punks. You won't be on the edge of your seat with this one. Not even . For an original author, there was nothing original about this book.
November 26, 2019
So looking forward to this book! I applaud this author for thinking outside the box and undertaking challenging subjects and topics that others shy away from! It might be a year away but I can’t wait to read this next vampire book I have a feelings it’s going to be a blood pumper! Haha
November 27, 2019
I cannot wait to read this! I’ve been so concerned for poor Pearl since we first met her way back when. Knowing the awesome AC she’ll get her happy ending... SOON!!!
November 2, 2020
This story has me scratching my head as to why it received so many good reviews. It's just weird.
So we have Vladistok finding his reincarnated bride in a tomb. Well actually, his soon to be grandson in law leads him to her tomb. You see Malcolm, our hero from the previous story, captured Pearl at the behest of the villian Darius, also from the first story. He brutally broke Pearl's jaw and ripped her incisors out. Apparently Darius wiped this memory from him but he had this inkling and lead Vladistok to the room Pearl was locked away in. Here's the thing, Vladistok winds up killing everyone that had a hand in Pearl's disappearance EXCEPT Malcolm. You would think he would have been first on the list to be killed but because he's the hero from the first story he's just let off? Even though he's the one that captured Pearl and lead to her life of pain and misery.
Vladistok is overjoyed to find his re-incarnated bride. Unfortunately, she has no recollection of her previous life. All she remembers is that she was some Cigarette girl in the 1920's. I thought there would be some big reveal moment where she remembers her previous life... but that never happens.
Honestly this story was so all over the place which isn't abnormal for a Cain story but usually her characters are a lot more enjoyable to read. Vladistok sucked. His constant manipulation of Pearl's character was pretty fucked up. Especially that he hid the fact that she had a son. Like his whole internal monologue about her not asking HIM about it and she's all "Oh I know you would have used this against me early on." But no girl... he knew and just didn't tell you.
Also! It's alluded to the fact that Vladistok/Pearl had a lot of children and she wound up dying in childbirth in her previous life. The only reason Vladistok allowed it was because she promised she'd return to him in re-incarnation. But from the sound of the story, he referred to this child (that killed her) as some type of beast and I thought he related Darius to the child that killed her? Maybe I was misunderstanding what was being said but that's when the author really just needs to clear up the story.
It's weird because Darius is the villian from the first novel and apparently he finds Pearl and puts her through living hell, at the same time as impregnating her with 2 kids... But is Pearl his mom? It was just super wierd and confusing.
I was really hoping for Pearl to find her powers and put Vladistok in his place but outside of her giving him the run around when she disappears for a night, that doesn't really happen.
It was just one of those novels where the hero constantly has the upper hand no matter what and I really need my girl Pearl to one up him on some levels. Unfortunately that never really happened.
Anyhoo, this story just didn't feel very well flushed out. Lots of jumping around, lots of things that didn't make sense and the characters themselves weren't all that likable.
So we have Vladistok finding his reincarnated bride in a tomb. Well actually, his soon to be grandson in law leads him to her tomb. You see Malcolm, our hero from the previous story, captured Pearl at the behest of the villian Darius, also from the first story. He brutally broke Pearl's jaw and ripped her incisors out. Apparently Darius wiped this memory from him but he had this inkling and lead Vladistok to the room Pearl was locked away in. Here's the thing, Vladistok winds up killing everyone that had a hand in Pearl's disappearance EXCEPT Malcolm. You would think he would have been first on the list to be killed but because he's the hero from the first story he's just let off? Even though he's the one that captured Pearl and lead to her life of pain and misery.
Vladistok is overjoyed to find his re-incarnated bride. Unfortunately, she has no recollection of her previous life. All she remembers is that she was some Cigarette girl in the 1920's. I thought there would be some big reveal moment where she remembers her previous life... but that never happens.
Honestly this story was so all over the place which isn't abnormal for a Cain story but usually her characters are a lot more enjoyable to read. Vladistok sucked. His constant manipulation of Pearl's character was pretty fucked up. Especially that he hid the fact that she had a son. Like his whole internal monologue about her not asking HIM about it and she's all "Oh I know you would have used this against me early on." But no girl... he knew and just didn't tell you.
Also! It's alluded to the fact that Vladistok/Pearl had a lot of children and she wound up dying in childbirth in her previous life. The only reason Vladistok allowed it was because she promised she'd return to him in re-incarnation. But from the sound of the story, he referred to this child (that killed her) as some type of beast and I thought he related Darius to the child that killed her? Maybe I was misunderstanding what was being said but that's when the author really just needs to clear up the story.
It's weird because Darius is the villian from the first novel and apparently he finds Pearl and puts her through living hell, at the same time as impregnating her with 2 kids... But is Pearl his mom? It was just super wierd and confusing.
I was really hoping for Pearl to find her powers and put Vladistok in his place but outside of her giving him the run around when she disappears for a night, that doesn't really happen.
It was just one of those novels where the hero constantly has the upper hand no matter what and I really need my girl Pearl to one up him on some levels. Unfortunately that never really happened.
Anyhoo, this story just didn't feel very well flushed out. Lots of jumping around, lots of things that didn't make sense and the characters themselves weren't all that likable.
October 23, 2020
Vampires. Some talk about Christianity. Goddesses and Gods. A great ancient king and his great ancient sister queen. They existed before the pharaohs. They had been married (if marriage was then the "marriage" of today). A mother. She went to her lost daughter's wedding. She spoke with a head on a spike. After that she rescued a baby from a prison in which he had been kept because of how evil he was. Tremor. A birth on an jungle island.
November 1, 2020
Yes! I am só glad Addison finally gets to do what she loves most again!
And that is writing deliciously hot and dark stories....YUM!
Giving Pearl the life she deserved...
Now thát was a story i was waiting for,and boy did she deliver!
Where she was at the end of Catacombs?
I nearly lost my mind,knowing what happened to her!
But now she’s finally found,she’s finally given the chance of being adored....if she’ll allow it.
Because her mind is not quite ready to be worshiped by the monster that is Vlad.
Even though he tells her of their shared history.
Even though he tells her she is his beloved wife,his other half,his soul.
And he does it so well....
With humor,with devotion,and with blood.
Ruthlessly taking away any threat,anything that frightens her or causes her displeasure.
Showing her she has a daughter to love,even though Jade looks a lot like her father,Darius.
But that evil bastard has been dealt with by Vlad himself....
The only thing remaining of him,his head on a stake,so Vlad can continue to taunt and torture him.
He even goes so far as allowing his other son (you’re going to love the twist of this part)Yeshua,to meet his precious Pearl.
Because she keeps a desperate hold onto her “faith”...
He shows her his true self,knowing she is the only one that really sees him for who he is.
I laughed with all the silly banter,even though at times the story was gruesome.
But that is the fine line Addison knows how to walk.
She weaves it all together seamlessly into the kind of story you can’t help,but love from start to finish!
And that is writing deliciously hot and dark stories....YUM!
Giving Pearl the life she deserved...
Now thát was a story i was waiting for,and boy did she deliver!
Where she was at the end of Catacombs?
I nearly lost my mind,knowing what happened to her!
But now she’s finally found,she’s finally given the chance of being adored....if she’ll allow it.
Because her mind is not quite ready to be worshiped by the monster that is Vlad.
Even though he tells her of their shared history.
Even though he tells her she is his beloved wife,his other half,his soul.
And he does it so well....
With humor,with devotion,and with blood.
Ruthlessly taking away any threat,anything that frightens her or causes her displeasure.
Showing her she has a daughter to love,even though Jade looks a lot like her father,Darius.
But that evil bastard has been dealt with by Vlad himself....
The only thing remaining of him,his head on a stake,so Vlad can continue to taunt and torture him.
He even goes so far as allowing his other son (you’re going to love the twist of this part)Yeshua,to meet his precious Pearl.
Because she keeps a desperate hold onto her “faith”...
He shows her his true self,knowing she is the only one that really sees him for who he is.
I laughed with all the silly banter,even though at times the story was gruesome.
But that is the fine line Addison knows how to walk.
She weaves it all together seamlessly into the kind of story you can’t help,but love from start to finish!
November 26, 2019
I have loved all her previous books and I am sure I will love this one as well! Addison is an amazing author and since I’ve started following her on FB I got to know the wonderful person she is as well!! I will wait patiently for the release of this book since I know her diamonds are not made under pressure but they are made with doing her own thing, fucking over everyone in her way and defying the laws of book physics.💛💛
Addison you rock girl!!!
And take care of that messy kitchen of yours, she is so freaking cute!!!
Addison you rock girl!!!
And take care of that messy kitchen of yours, she is so freaking cute!!!
November 26, 2019
Obviously l can’t rate this book yet as it hasn’t been released but l felt l had to add some comments due to unfair remarks l am seeing here. This is the next book in a series following on from Catacombs and then Cathedral written by one fabulous author. I loved the first two books, they are so very dark and the stories are gripping. I can’t wait to read this book and have already pre-ordered it, that’s how much faith l have in this author.
October 24, 2020
I just got finished reading Cathedral and am on pins and needles for The Relic! I’ve wanted to know more of Pearls story since last year. Absolutely can’t wait!
October 24, 2020
Not what I expected
** There are some spoiler mentions in this review so please be advised. **
This book was not quite what I was expecting and honestly a bit disappointed for such a long awaited sequel. The internal dialogue between Pearl and Vlad carried most of the story and gets confusing at times. This type of story telling is one dimensional and boring for me.
There were many funny parts of Vlad’s musings but I couldn’t get into it. It came across as Vlad telling the reader a story instead of the reader getting into the story on their own.
I wish the author had fleshed out the story more. We waited a really long time for answers from Catacombs and never quite got them resolved. Instead more questions arises, new plot lines and new characters were introduced. One of the things I hoped to see was Pearl regaining some of the memories Darius took from her while in captivity. What happened to her all those years? He erased her memories every night and kept her for god knows how long, a century?? Even long enough to give birth to her daughter Jade, considering her age as well and given birth to other children as hinted. Vlad would have seen all those memories from Darius after he was decapitated and kept alive. He could have shared his musings with the reader while not having poor Pearl relive it.
Yes, I am so glad Pearl finally got rescued and got her HEA but the layers upon layers of incest relationship of the characters, the fodder of religion, Jesus as a character and child of Vlad, God and the Devil mixed with Vampire totally lost me on this book. It was confusing.
There is a forth book next about Pearl’s child Jasper. Darius seemed to be the father. When was he born? He is supposed to be even more evil than Darius and yet he’s cherished, loved and accepted by Pearl and Vlad as a golden child. I love Addison Cane books but this one is a miss for me.
** There are some spoiler mentions in this review so please be advised. **
This book was not quite what I was expecting and honestly a bit disappointed for such a long awaited sequel. The internal dialogue between Pearl and Vlad carried most of the story and gets confusing at times. This type of story telling is one dimensional and boring for me.
There were many funny parts of Vlad’s musings but I couldn’t get into it. It came across as Vlad telling the reader a story instead of the reader getting into the story on their own.
I wish the author had fleshed out the story more. We waited a really long time for answers from Catacombs and never quite got them resolved. Instead more questions arises, new plot lines and new characters were introduced. One of the things I hoped to see was Pearl regaining some of the memories Darius took from her while in captivity. What happened to her all those years? He erased her memories every night and kept her for god knows how long, a century?? Even long enough to give birth to her daughter Jade, considering her age as well and given birth to other children as hinted. Vlad would have seen all those memories from Darius after he was decapitated and kept alive. He could have shared his musings with the reader while not having poor Pearl relive it.
Yes, I am so glad Pearl finally got rescued and got her HEA but the layers upon layers of incest relationship of the characters, the fodder of religion, Jesus as a character and child of Vlad, God and the Devil mixed with Vampire totally lost me on this book. It was confusing.
There is a forth book next about Pearl’s child Jasper. Darius seemed to be the father. When was he born? He is supposed to be even more evil than Darius and yet he’s cherished, loved and accepted by Pearl and Vlad as a golden child. I love Addison Cane books but this one is a miss for me.
December 27, 2020
The Relic is unlike anything I have ever read. So the whole Cradle of Darkness series is unusual, to say the least. Having read Addison Cain many times, I know not to expect anyone thing with a book. So having read the other books with this series I wanted dark and disturbed, but I didn't see that with The Relic.
To me, The Relic was kind of tamed. There were moments I was waiting for that dark and dirty part and it went missing. Vlad seemed to have lost his passion. He has turned into a pu$$y all of a sudden and wants nothing like the devil I thought he was. I wanted to see that. I wanted to see him become the vampire/devil we know he can be. But now that Peral is in his arms, he has a soul. NO!
Pearl has been locked up for centuries and now is out with Vlad. She is a confusing character to like or even to dislike. She doesn't believe anything that is going on and it takes most of the book for her to figure out that Vlad is who he says he is.
The conclusion to this series was bland at best but won't stop me from reading Cain.
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To me, The Relic was kind of tamed. There were moments I was waiting for that dark and dirty part and it went missing. Vlad seemed to have lost his passion. He has turned into a pu$$y all of a sudden and wants nothing like the devil I thought he was. I wanted to see that. I wanted to see him become the vampire/devil we know he can be. But now that Peral is in his arms, he has a soul. NO!
Pearl has been locked up for centuries and now is out with Vlad. She is a confusing character to like or even to dislike. She doesn't believe anything that is going on and it takes most of the book for her to figure out that Vlad is who he says he is.
The conclusion to this series was bland at best but won't stop me from reading Cain.
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January 17, 2021
I love AC's earlier work, even if her stories ended on cliffhangers and had no endings, they were beautifully written. This story cannot hold a candle to her earlier work, the character development was not there nor was the world building. I found this book to be more of a commentary on today's political state of America than a love story. I found her inclusion of Jesus completely unnecessary, this book is not written to the level it needs to be to insert religion or Jesus into it. If you are a Christian don't purchase this book, it will upset you. I am secular but found the use of Jesus absolutely unnecessary and disrespectful. This book was expensive, it ten dollars Canadian for a 189 page story, that's really bad value for the money. This book was just unreadable and l stopped at the 75%. I have noticed the quality of writing in the authors newer books is really bad, not sure if she has lost her passion for writing or what is going on but this book is awful.
October 26, 2020
What did I just read?
Gosh, I have no idea what I just read, honestly. I love this author, have reread some of her series multiple times and this book threw me for a loop. The story could’ve been flushed out way more...as it stands it felt almost like a commentary on christianity, rather than a love story. I got through half the book and had to put it down because I was so confused. I hate leaving bad reviews but...wow I just am kind of lost.
Gosh, I have no idea what I just read, honestly. I love this author, have reread some of her series multiple times and this book threw me for a loop. The story could’ve been flushed out way more...as it stands it felt almost like a commentary on christianity, rather than a love story. I got through half the book and had to put it down because I was so confused. I hate leaving bad reviews but...wow I just am kind of lost.
October 22, 2020
I truly wasn't sure what to expect from The Relic once I heard that it would be a dark romantic comedy. I have to admit that I can't really claim to be a fan of the genre, but I should have trusted Addison Cain since I have yet to read a book of hers I haven't absolutely loved. For those who read Catacombs, The Relic is the love story of Pearl and Vladislov. If you haven't read Catacombs, you should definitely do so prior to diving into this book. In The Relic, Pearl finally gets the happy ending she so desperately deserves. I adored Vladislov so much throughout the book. For such a bloodthirsty, in many ways horrible, homicidal and morally corrupt being, his love for Pearl is something to behold. The way he goes about wooing his soulmate, the way he is able to be gentle with her and molds the world around them to suit her needs is just so swoon-worthy. Pearl goes through quite a metamorphosis throughout the book. She transforms from a broken terrified creature questioning everything and not accepting her soulmate to the true queen she was always meant to be. This wouldn't be an Addsion Cain book if it didn't have its triggers, gore and, of course, delicious heat. Written in Addison's signature style, The Relic is a beautiful love story full of humor, steam, darkness and so much more!
October 23, 2020
Usually Addison Cain is trying to rip your soul out of your left nostril with her dark romances, and then leave you wanting more, so this book was an unusual turn for her. I'm still not entirely sure how I feel about it. While on the one hand I am glad that Pearl (originally introduced to us in the short story Catacombs) was finally rescued and put on the road to recovery by her very patient monster of a soul-mate Vlad, yet at other times it didn't have the slow burn to it like most of Cain's books I really enjoy. I found Vlad a complete hoot, but at the same time something as old as he is it feels odd he's that much of a humorous monster... then again, if you're -that- old, who gives a crud anyway?
Compared to Catacombs and then Cathedral, its kinda startling in the shift of tone and maybe that's what's not sitting right with me. Overall though, it's a good read, I enjoyed poor Pearl finally getting herself a loving psycho monster, and finding out a few more surprises about her along the way. Finally a happy ending in an Addison Cain book! Who knew?
Compared to Catacombs and then Cathedral, its kinda startling in the shift of tone and maybe that's what's not sitting right with me. Overall though, it's a good read, I enjoyed poor Pearl finally getting herself a loving psycho monster, and finding out a few more surprises about her along the way. Finally a happy ending in an Addison Cain book! Who knew?
October 26, 2020
For a book that was a sequel and was supposed to be a comedy I had a really hard time with it. In the beginning it was hard to read because I had a hard time telling who was talking/thinking. Instead of showing how being ancient made them crazy it just made it a hot mess. The nonchalant way in which Cain would drop truth bombs actually started to make me mad. Like she’s over here blowing my mind and trying to put pieces together and she’s dropped 5 other things to try and grasp at the same time. Just from being an avid reader it seemed to me that a lot more time was put into the second half of the book. The plot was better developed and actually seemed to follow a plot and story line. The beginning just seemed like she was rushing to set us up for the story. This is the first time I’ve ever been disappointed. But I will adamantly remain a Cain fan!
October 20, 2020
Pearl is finally found. Vlad is going to have navigate bring her back to which she belongs. Incredible imaginary of this story.
October 22, 2020
For those you read Catacombs and wondered what happened to Pearl, this book will give you the answer. If you have not read Catacombs you will still be able to read this story without any problems.
This is a vampire story as only Addison Cain can do it. There are unique, broken, depraved and interesting characters. Pearl is damaged and broken and doesn’t trust a soul or what is happening to her. Vladislov wants his soul mate back and will do anything to make that happen, she is his world.
The Vampire world that Addison Cain has created is different than any other Vampire world I have read before. It is full of rich details and dark and twisted actions from start to finish.
It is not as dark as the previous book and it gives a glimpse into the histr=ory and relationship between the main characters. I would love a book about the early beginnings of them.
The interaction between the characters also made me laugh.
This is a vampire story as only Addison Cain can do it. There are unique, broken, depraved and interesting characters. Pearl is damaged and broken and doesn’t trust a soul or what is happening to her. Vladislov wants his soul mate back and will do anything to make that happen, she is his world.
The Vampire world that Addison Cain has created is different than any other Vampire world I have read before. It is full of rich details and dark and twisted actions from start to finish.
It is not as dark as the previous book and it gives a glimpse into the histr=ory and relationship between the main characters. I would love a book about the early beginnings of them.
The interaction between the characters also made me laugh.
October 31, 2020
Seems like Mrs. Addison lost her spark. She probably got so used to writing these not complete money grab fillers short story things that she forgot how to write a full length novel worth of plot. It was boring and predictable. Nothing exciting happened. The characters were very one dimensional and i didn't really care for them nor did i feel the any connection or chemistry between them. The world building was clumsy and vague. It was all over the place and i couldn't get a clear picture of it. Even the sex scenes were blah. All in all it was very basic uninspiring and boring. Maybe if Mrs. Cain invested more time in her craft than marketing ploys to get more money from her fans we might be able to see good work from her.
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