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Crying for the Moon
A vampire who wants to live a normal life. A neighbor who is anything but normal. Who is in the most danger?
Vampire Alexei Novik may have the teeth and the coffin, but he’s given up the lifestyle for an old fixer-upper in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Weary of his past, Alex plans to keep to himself, but it seems his sexy, new neighbor, Tate, can’t take the hint―a good thing, since it turns out he’s handy for all kinds of things around the house. Tate even gets along with Alex’s werewolf friends, though one of them pointedly reminds Alex that their friendship is a bad idea. If a platonic relationship is a bad idea, the growing attraction between Tate and Alex is a disaster waiting to happen. Loving Tate will draw him into Alex’s dangerous world, and Alex is torn between having the relationship he’s always craved and keeping Tate safe. Tate won’t take no for an answer, however, and seems to handle everything Alex can throw at him without blinking. Just when he thinks things might turn out all right after all, Alex’s past catches up with him―forcing him to make a terrible choice.
Vampire Alexei Novik may have the teeth and the coffin, but he’s given up the lifestyle for an old fixer-upper in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Weary of his past, Alex plans to keep to himself, but it seems his sexy, new neighbor, Tate, can’t take the hint―a good thing, since it turns out he’s handy for all kinds of things around the house. Tate even gets along with Alex’s werewolf friends, though one of them pointedly reminds Alex that their friendship is a bad idea. If a platonic relationship is a bad idea, the growing attraction between Tate and Alex is a disaster waiting to happen. Loving Tate will draw him into Alex’s dangerous world, and Alex is torn between having the relationship he’s always craved and keeping Tate safe. Tate won’t take no for an answer, however, and seems to handle everything Alex can throw at him without blinking. Just when he thinks things might turn out all right after all, Alex’s past catches up with him―forcing him to make a terrible choice.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2011
11 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Madison
441 books292 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
June 17, 2021
My run of 2-star reads continues...
Where's my fainting couch when I need it?
So, this one is about a vampire who is best buddies with a werewolf pack - defying the tradition of hatred between the two kinds. It is the equivalent of the Roadrunner and Coyote getting married. An insult to God and all of mankind.
It was always a game. A sexy role-play game. The Roadrunner looks happy to be caught and is about to say "Choke me, Daddy."
Our vampire, Alex, buys apiece of crap "fixer-upper" of a house with a bunch of land so his puppy pals have lots of room to romp and kill every full moon. But, one pup gets hurt so he ends up bringing his new neighbor, a veterinarian, in to help. And, well, you know, he must have been rocking that set of scrubs and comfy shoes because things get sexy... as things are wont to do when crocs are matched with socks....
There are some very tame issues that seem too easily resolved, and a bad guy who never really felt as threatening as the author wanted. The characters seemed likable enough, but none of them were developed. I think that by trying to give all of the secondary characters dimension, there just wasn't enough page-time for the main couple's personalities and chemistry to come through. It was all just a mild, surface look at a lot of people that I didn't connect strongly with.
Where's my fainting couch when I need it?
So, this one is about a vampire who is best buddies with a werewolf pack - defying the tradition of hatred between the two kinds. It is the equivalent of the Roadrunner and Coyote getting married. An insult to God and all of mankind.
It was always a game. A sexy role-play game. The Roadrunner looks happy to be caught and is about to say "Choke me, Daddy."
Our vampire, Alex, buys a
There are some very tame issues that seem too easily resolved, and a bad guy who never really felt as threatening as the author wanted. The characters seemed likable enough, but none of them were developed. I think that by trying to give all of the secondary characters dimension, there just wasn't enough page-time for the main couple's personalities and chemistry to come through. It was all just a mild, surface look at a lot of people that I didn't connect strongly with.
August 23, 2011
This was a fun read. I liked the banter and the characters because they made the story enjoyable and I was thankful for that because I was hoping for a read that'd get me out of the funk I was in and this one definitely did that.
Tate and Alex were both so cute to me. It was a treat seeing Alex realize even though he's a vampire he still has friends who care about him. I really liked that.
My only faults were I knew the 'mystery' right from the get go. As soon as it was mentioned I knew exactly what it was. It was a little too obvious actually so there was no surprise at all. I still liked it, though, because I thought Alex and Tate were both adorable when it was all said and done. Also, the other conflict at the end was over a bit too fast for my liking. It was interesting, yeah, but I still would have liked it to have been drawn out. I still have one or two questions left over about vampires and shifters but mainly I'm just really curious about Nick and Pete. I'd really love to have their story.
All in all, a lovely read. Very much enjoyed the classical view on vampires with still enough of a twist to make this book lively and unique. Definitely recommended.
Tate and Alex were both so cute to me. It was a treat seeing Alex realize even though he's a vampire he still has friends who care about him. I really liked that.
My only faults were I knew the 'mystery' right from the get go. As soon as it was mentioned I knew exactly what it was. It was a little too obvious actually so there was no surprise at all. I still liked it, though, because I thought Alex and Tate were both adorable when it was all said and done. Also, the other conflict at the end was over a bit too fast for my liking. It was interesting, yeah, but I still would have liked it to have been drawn out. I still have one or two questions left over about vampires and shifters but mainly I'm just really curious about Nick and Pete. I'd really love to have their story.
All in all, a lovely read. Very much enjoyed the classical view on vampires with still enough of a twist to make this book lively and unique. Definitely recommended.
May 22, 2021
4.25 stars
One of the better shifter/vamp stories I've read in the past several years. Very likable characters, interesting take on the dynamics between paranormal beings, a fun romance. Short on world building, wish there was more background on the wolf pack, and definitely not enough explanation about Tate. But overall, a fun romp. Definitely recommended.
2021 4th read: 4.5 stars. I have to marvel at the seemingly effortless flow of prose and story. Such a pleasure to read. Love this story.
One of the better shifter/vamp stories I've read in the past several years. Very likable characters, interesting take on the dynamics between paranormal beings, a fun romance. Short on world building, wish there was more background on the wolf pack, and definitely not enough explanation about Tate. But overall, a fun romp. Definitely recommended.
2021 4th read: 4.5 stars. I have to marvel at the seemingly effortless flow of prose and story. Such a pleasure to read. Love this story.
July 4, 2014
I should've seen it coming.
Really, I should've based on the book's blurb and the fact that there is a pretty big wolf on the damn cover. But I still ended up being surprised by the big role that Alex's werewolf friends played in this book. Not only was I caught off guard but was also pretty annoyed.
It felt like Alex and Tate's developing relationship was shunted to the side to constantly deal with Alex's friends wolf-y problems.
It seemed like Nick and Peter, who were part of the werewolf pack and a couple, got as much, if not more, on-page screen time as Alex and Tate, who were billed as the supposed MCs of the book.
Because I wasn't expecting to read about the wolf pack so much in this book and thought they wouldn't be so central to the plotline, I didn't bother connecting with the characters and therefore did not really care for them when they appeared on-page, which was often (just in case I haven't mentioned that yet! >.>). And this was such a big shame. I actually really liked Alex and Tate both as individuals and as a couple. They were both very interesting characters. I adored Tate, who was a fun, charming, easy-going, entertaining goofball. He brought a smile to my face whenever he appeared. Alex, on the other hand, was more quiet, reserved, and a little bit cynical due to his troubled past. These two really complemented each other well, and Tate was the perfect man to help Alex realize that not every man out there is like his sleazy asshat douche of an ex. But I also felt that there relationship could've developed a little better if it wasn't for...oh yeah...the wolves.
I do have to say that I enjoyed the great paranormal world-building that Ms. Madison accomplished and the unique elements that she added in terms of being a vampire. Also, the writing was very good and engaging. I just wish that there was more romance and relationship-building involved between the MCs.
Really, I should've based on the book's blurb and the fact that there is a pretty big wolf on the damn cover. But I still ended up being surprised by the big role that Alex's werewolf friends played in this book. Not only was I caught off guard but was also pretty annoyed.
It felt like Alex and Tate's developing relationship was shunted to the side to constantly deal with Alex's friends wolf-y problems.
It seemed like Nick and Peter, who were part of the werewolf pack and a couple, got as much, if not more, on-page screen time as Alex and Tate, who were billed as the supposed MCs of the book.
Because I wasn't expecting to read about the wolf pack so much in this book and thought they wouldn't be so central to the plotline, I didn't bother connecting with the characters and therefore did not really care for them when they appeared on-page, which was often (just in case I haven't mentioned that yet! >.>). And this was such a big shame. I actually really liked Alex and Tate both as individuals and as a couple. They were both very interesting characters. I adored Tate, who was a fun, charming, easy-going, entertaining goofball. He brought a smile to my face whenever he appeared. Alex, on the other hand, was more quiet, reserved, and a little bit cynical due to his troubled past. These two really complemented each other well, and Tate was the perfect man to help Alex realize that not every man out there is like his sleazy asshat douche of an ex. But I also felt that there relationship could've developed a little better if it wasn't for...oh yeah...the wolves.
I do have to say that I enjoyed the great paranormal world-building that Ms. Madison accomplished and the unique elements that she added in terms of being a vampire. Also, the writing was very good and engaging. I just wish that there was more romance and relationship-building involved between the MCs.
August 25, 2011
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July 30, 2020
3.5 stars
Hmm... this was a little difficult to rate. I like that it’s so different from the typical vampire and werewolf tropes. But that said, I feel a little lost cos I don’t really know enough about the different species to understand what they’re saying when they say Life and such.
Also, it feels like it’s not quite complete. I mean, it should be a series or something. For us to actually get to know everything! So many unanswered questions!
Hmm... this was a little difficult to rate. I like that it’s so different from the typical vampire and werewolf tropes. But that said, I feel a little lost cos I don’t really know enough about the different species to understand what they’re saying when they say Life and such.
Also, it feels like it’s not quite complete. I mean, it should be a series or something. For us to actually get to know everything! So many unanswered questions!
October 19, 2011
Overall
This novel utilizes all the qualities that make vampire novels great--but also has fun with it. The characters are hilarious, caring, and loyal; the sex is hot; and the plot is well fleshed out. Even though most of the action doesn't happen until the last 20%, the story never drags as each chapter develops characters and cultural history. For those who are familiar with vampire and werewolf lore, you'll appreciate the nods of recognition to some of the standards, while also finding a few new twists.
Strengths
Set in the modern world, there is very little development that needs to be done on that end, but Madison took vampire and werewolf lore and tweaked it just enough to make it her own. The info wasn't dumped on the reader all at once, except for a single instance and that wasn't even dumped, but worked into dialogue. The nuances in the cultures and the world creation felt believable and well done, but most of all, it took something that has been rehashed and made it feel fresh.
This story contains a very limited cast (no more than 10 people total), but the main six are constantly on screen and moving around. The skill with which the characters are handled is excellent, and their unique personalities all shine through. Each is an individual that adds a different dynamic to what's happening in the story, sometimes to Alex's chagrin. Fun, oddly human, characters.
While initially there doesn't seem to be much plot, everything is building toward the final climatic scene with purpose. The hints and allusions are invoked to lure the reader into wanting to know more, without being obtuse and ignoring facts or questions that the characters in the story would know or ask. In addition, while main climax is slowly being built, other tiny events happen, some of which are dramatic (an attack) and some of which are just people living in close quarters and newly falling in love. The varied events and happenings create a well-paced piece.
Weaknesses
If I were pinpoint one weakness, it's definitely that the end happens quickly and a few points are brought up without being resolved, possibly for future sequels, or possibly because life doesn't always give us all the answers. However, I didn't feel shorted by the end or the information given either, I just want to know More! More! More!, which I count as a good thing, even though I put it under weakness.
Requested this book for review.
Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.
This novel utilizes all the qualities that make vampire novels great--but also has fun with it. The characters are hilarious, caring, and loyal; the sex is hot; and the plot is well fleshed out. Even though most of the action doesn't happen until the last 20%, the story never drags as each chapter develops characters and cultural history. For those who are familiar with vampire and werewolf lore, you'll appreciate the nods of recognition to some of the standards, while also finding a few new twists.
Strengths
Set in the modern world, there is very little development that needs to be done on that end, but Madison took vampire and werewolf lore and tweaked it just enough to make it her own. The info wasn't dumped on the reader all at once, except for a single instance and that wasn't even dumped, but worked into dialogue. The nuances in the cultures and the world creation felt believable and well done, but most of all, it took something that has been rehashed and made it feel fresh.
This story contains a very limited cast (no more than 10 people total), but the main six are constantly on screen and moving around. The skill with which the characters are handled is excellent, and their unique personalities all shine through. Each is an individual that adds a different dynamic to what's happening in the story, sometimes to Alex's chagrin. Fun, oddly human, characters.
While initially there doesn't seem to be much plot, everything is building toward the final climatic scene with purpose. The hints and allusions are invoked to lure the reader into wanting to know more, without being obtuse and ignoring facts or questions that the characters in the story would know or ask. In addition, while main climax is slowly being built, other tiny events happen, some of which are dramatic (an attack) and some of which are just people living in close quarters and newly falling in love. The varied events and happenings create a well-paced piece.
Weaknesses
If I were pinpoint one weakness, it's definitely that the end happens quickly and a few points are brought up without being resolved, possibly for future sequels, or possibly because life doesn't always give us all the answers. However, I didn't feel shorted by the end or the information given either, I just want to know More! More! More!, which I count as a good thing, even though I put it under weakness.
Requested this book for review.
Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.
December 3, 2013
All in all this was a really good book and I'm glad I read it. But there were a couple of things a bit off for me. Saying that, I can't say I didn't really enjoy reading it. Only the last 10% was a bit off for me, the rest was an entertaining read that had me wanting more. If I had to state my main complaint, it would be the secret that was only revealed towards the end. Alex was upfront with Tate when they slept together... Tate, however, lied. And it kind of pissed me off.
Overall, I would say this is probably a nice 4 star read, one that I will read again one day. And I'm glad it was recommended to me.
Overall, I would say this is probably a nice 4 star read, one that I will read again one day. And I'm glad it was recommended to me.
February 8, 2018
Un libro divertentissimo , è stato un piacere leggerlo.
L'autrice è riuscita a trasformare qualcosa di già visto e su cui è stato scritto tanto, in qualcosa di originale e ironico.
Peccato ci sia solo questo libro, mi sarebbe piaciuto avere un seguito , anche sui personaggi secondari.
L'autrice è riuscita a trasformare qualcosa di già visto e su cui è stato scritto tanto, in qualcosa di originale e ironico.
Peccato ci sia solo questo libro, mi sarebbe piaciuto avere un seguito , anche sui personaggi secondari.
August 4, 2011
A few vague spoilers here and there, but nothing that would take away your enjoyment of the book! Still, please approach my review with caution.
Complete devouring of a book within a day is usually an indication of me enjoying a book. Despite its relatively manageable length, I did not finish Sarah Madison’s Crying for the Moon in a single day. Except, contrary to my earlier statement, this doesn’t signify my lack of enjoyment at all. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to stay a little bit longer in their world, and as such I tried to read as slow as I could. What makes this book so special in my eyes? A lot, to be honest.
First of all, the characters were all three-dimensional and enjoyable, as well as very much entertaining. Everyone knows that wonderful characters are keys to hitting it big with readers – even if a book has a very interesting premise, annoying characters would just make the story fall flat. That isn’t the case at all with this book! I enjoyed all of them, even grumpy Duncan and (at times) very irritating Julie. The only one I didn’t enjoy, of course, was Victor. But he was interesting enough – even during the times when Alex only talked about him in passing – that I was intrigued. Alex and Tate were great, with flaming chemistry between them that only burned brighter with repression. They were fascinating main characters, and I enjoyed uncovering secrets as Alex told them, like how we get to piece together the mechanics of “the Life” as Alex talked about it. Alex is a wonderful indirect narrator, and I was shocked in very much the same way as he was when certain things came to light. Tate was equally as intriguing; since the story was told from Alex’s perspective we initially know very little about Tate. (Although, even in the end, some things are very unclear to me. I’m not worried, though, because the author herself said that she’s currently plotting out a sequel!)
Nick and Peter were, by far, my most favorite of the cast of secondary characters. I admit, when we first encounter them, I was a bit disappointed when Alex said (not explicitly, though) that Nick was straight. And Peter was simply adorable! At times he tends to act like a complete kid but it was still believable nonetheless; his childishness wasn’t so off-the-wall as to come off as completely forced. Nick and Peter have such an easygoing and comfortable relationship with each other that it’s not hard to imagine them together. Imagine my surprise when it turned out that they are together! I jumped up and down in glee for a couple of minutes. With a full house (literally!) of wild characters, both primary and secondary, I wouldn’t have cared less if the plot was nonexistent.
And for a while it did seem like there wasn’t a point to it at all. In a sense, the conflict is both external and internal so if a reader isn’t paying much attention, the conflict wouldn’t have been obvious at all. After a while, though, it was clear to me that the biggest conflict here is Alex coming to terms with pursuing a relationship with Tate, who is a tad bit more fragile because of his humanity. There were a couple of side plots as well, such as Peter getting injured and Julie – Peter’s sister – just suddenly appearing, but underlying those little things was the fact that Tate was slowly worming himself into Alex’s small and intimate circle. Through these small happenings we get to see just how much Tate fits in this group of social outcasts. The external conflict is pretty much foreshadowed even in the beginning of the book, and it isn’t so dramatic that it actually takes away from the beauty of the internal conflicts. Victor’s role in the story wasn’t hard to predict, but a final twist born out of his assault took me a bit by surprise. I know that a lot of people have mentioned that this twist was really obvious right from the get-go, but to be honest, I was either dense or didn't really pay any attention to it. I suppose in hindsight it was blatant, even for me. I just couldn't get a clue. (I think I got distracted by Nick and Peter.) Most readers would definitely pick up on "the big reveal" right from the start, but hopefully it won't detract from anyone's enjoyment of it.
It was all very lovely to read, and as some reviewers have said before me, it’s a story of friendship as well – the beginnings of new friendships, the strengthening of existing ones. There is no doubt that everything is centered on Alex and Tate, but the others are so close to them that they aren’t easily brushed off to the side. I fell in love with them all, and I’m sure that anyone who takes the time to get to know these guys (and gals) would fall in love with them as well!
The author’s world-building was fantastic as well. Too often we encounter vampires who are just too perfect – the sparkly ones, for example. I think it was a good decision on Sarah’s part that she didn’t read any vampire stories before writing hers. Her take on the werewolf and vampire lore is extremely refreshing and unique. It doesn’t at all feel recycled and contrived. These paranormal beings have their own weaknesses as well as strengths, the proof of which is Peter’s encounter in the woods.
This is perhaps one of the longest reviews I’ve ever written, and with good reason, too. There is just too much to say about this book that I can ramble and gush about it on and on and on. I really loved my three days in the company of this book. I wanted the story to stretch as far as it could because I wasn’t quite willing to leave the characters just yet. Thank the heavens for sequels, because I am truly looking forward to the story that comes after Crying for the Moon, as well as Nick and Peter’s story! Definitely recommended (in fact, I will be loaning my copy to my best friend) and I will be reading more of Sarah Madison’s stories.
P.S. Dear author, I need more.
Complete devouring of a book within a day is usually an indication of me enjoying a book. Despite its relatively manageable length, I did not finish Sarah Madison’s Crying for the Moon in a single day. Except, contrary to my earlier statement, this doesn’t signify my lack of enjoyment at all. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to stay a little bit longer in their world, and as such I tried to read as slow as I could. What makes this book so special in my eyes? A lot, to be honest.
First of all, the characters were all three-dimensional and enjoyable, as well as very much entertaining. Everyone knows that wonderful characters are keys to hitting it big with readers – even if a book has a very interesting premise, annoying characters would just make the story fall flat. That isn’t the case at all with this book! I enjoyed all of them, even grumpy Duncan and (at times) very irritating Julie. The only one I didn’t enjoy, of course, was Victor. But he was interesting enough – even during the times when Alex only talked about him in passing – that I was intrigued. Alex and Tate were great, with flaming chemistry between them that only burned brighter with repression. They were fascinating main characters, and I enjoyed uncovering secrets as Alex told them, like how we get to piece together the mechanics of “the Life” as Alex talked about it. Alex is a wonderful indirect narrator, and I was shocked in very much the same way as he was when certain things came to light. Tate was equally as intriguing; since the story was told from Alex’s perspective we initially know very little about Tate. (Although, even in the end, some things are very unclear to me. I’m not worried, though, because the author herself said that she’s currently plotting out a sequel!)
Nick and Peter were, by far, my most favorite of the cast of secondary characters. I admit, when we first encounter them, I was a bit disappointed when Alex said (not explicitly, though) that Nick was straight. And Peter was simply adorable! At times he tends to act like a complete kid but it was still believable nonetheless; his childishness wasn’t so off-the-wall as to come off as completely forced. Nick and Peter have such an easygoing and comfortable relationship with each other that it’s not hard to imagine them together. Imagine my surprise when it turned out that they are together! I jumped up and down in glee for a couple of minutes. With a full house (literally!) of wild characters, both primary and secondary, I wouldn’t have cared less if the plot was nonexistent.
And for a while it did seem like there wasn’t a point to it at all. In a sense, the conflict is both external and internal so if a reader isn’t paying much attention, the conflict wouldn’t have been obvious at all. After a while, though, it was clear to me that the biggest conflict here is Alex coming to terms with pursuing a relationship with Tate, who is a tad bit more fragile because of his humanity. There were a couple of side plots as well, such as Peter getting injured and Julie – Peter’s sister – just suddenly appearing, but underlying those little things was the fact that Tate was slowly worming himself into Alex’s small and intimate circle. Through these small happenings we get to see just how much Tate fits in this group of social outcasts. The external conflict is pretty much foreshadowed even in the beginning of the book, and it isn’t so dramatic that it actually takes away from the beauty of the internal conflicts. Victor’s role in the story wasn’t hard to predict, but a final twist born out of his assault took me a bit by surprise. I know that a lot of people have mentioned that this twist was really obvious right from the get-go, but to be honest, I was either dense or didn't really pay any attention to it. I suppose in hindsight it was blatant, even for me. I just couldn't get a clue. (I think I got distracted by Nick and Peter.) Most readers would definitely pick up on "the big reveal" right from the start, but hopefully it won't detract from anyone's enjoyment of it.
It was all very lovely to read, and as some reviewers have said before me, it’s a story of friendship as well – the beginnings of new friendships, the strengthening of existing ones. There is no doubt that everything is centered on Alex and Tate, but the others are so close to them that they aren’t easily brushed off to the side. I fell in love with them all, and I’m sure that anyone who takes the time to get to know these guys (and gals) would fall in love with them as well!
The author’s world-building was fantastic as well. Too often we encounter vampires who are just too perfect – the sparkly ones, for example. I think it was a good decision on Sarah’s part that she didn’t read any vampire stories before writing hers. Her take on the werewolf and vampire lore is extremely refreshing and unique. It doesn’t at all feel recycled and contrived. These paranormal beings have their own weaknesses as well as strengths, the proof of which is Peter’s encounter in the woods.
This is perhaps one of the longest reviews I’ve ever written, and with good reason, too. There is just too much to say about this book that I can ramble and gush about it on and on and on. I really loved my three days in the company of this book. I wanted the story to stretch as far as it could because I wasn’t quite willing to leave the characters just yet. Thank the heavens for sequels, because I am truly looking forward to the story that comes after Crying for the Moon, as well as Nick and Peter’s story! Definitely recommended (in fact, I will be loaning my copy to my best friend) and I will be reading more of Sarah Madison’s stories.
P.S. Dear author, I need more.
January 10, 2020
It has been some time since I've read a good vampire story so I had high hopes for this book from an as yet unknown author, to me. 'Crying for the Moon' is definitely a good story with a fascinating world that is just a little unique to what I've read in the past. I adore different and I was only a few pages into the story when I realized Sarah Madison would be giving me something unusual. The concept of vampires that follow the tenets of their species is called living the Life and for vampires that essentially means drinking blood and having sex. The less time they actually spend sleeping or resting in their coffin, the more human they appear, i.e., they can go out in daylight, and they have a reflection.
Alex is several centuries old and a born vampire, but has left the Life of his species. He just wants to be left alone to live and to have something more than the Life provides. His friends are a very small pack of werewolves, four to be exact, and even that is far removed from the Life as their species do not usually socialize. Alex has now moved to the mountains and bought a serious fixer-upper house, something to keep him busy while he tries to decide what his latest incarnation for the human populace will be. Vampires, within the Life, tend to be very solitary and remain far outside mainstream society. But, having left the Life, Alex now cares about Nick and his pack, the feral tomcat he's started feeding, and his neighbor, Tate. Caring is something vampires don't do, except for themselves, and certainly not for dirty animals or humans.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Alex is several centuries old and a born vampire, but has left the Life of his species. He just wants to be left alone to live and to have something more than the Life provides. His friends are a very small pack of werewolves, four to be exact, and even that is far removed from the Life as their species do not usually socialize. Alex has now moved to the mountains and bought a serious fixer-upper house, something to keep him busy while he tries to decide what his latest incarnation for the human populace will be. Vampires, within the Life, tend to be very solitary and remain far outside mainstream society. But, having left the Life, Alex now cares about Nick and his pack, the feral tomcat he's started feeding, and his neighbor, Tate. Caring is something vampires don't do, except for themselves, and certainly not for dirty animals or humans.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
November 6, 2015
Vi svelo una mia fantasia segreta. Quando leggevo “Twilight” io non mi perdevo dietro a Bella e al suo luccicoso, ma mi immaginavo un sacco di storie parallele sui vampiri e sul gruppo di lupi sexy che combattevano con loro. Mente malata? Non lo nego, ma dopo aver letto questo libro posso affermare che non sono l’unica ad aver avuto certe fantasie. Anzi, “Volere la luna” mi ha dato il colpo di grazia, perché ha per protagonisti un vampiro delizioso che cerca di rifarsi un’esistenza (l’ennesima), portandosi la bara appresso, e un branco di mannari considerati un po’ “gentaglia” dai nobili succhiasangue.
Alex vorrebbe solo sistemarsi nella sua nuova casa vicino ai boschi, al riparo dai curiosi, e invece si ritrova a organizzare cene e a cantare con i simpatici lupi e il muscoloso vicino ficcanaso, nonché a sfamare pure i gatti selvatici dei dintorni.
Non aspettatevi una trama con colpi di scena incredibili, ma piuttosto un romanzo quasi “domestico”, ricco di affetti, amicizia, battute spiritose. Davvero godibile. Con scene di grandiosa sensualità che mi sono piaciute moltissimo, perché si affidano soprattutto al gioco di sguardi, ai sorrisi, ai sogni sotto la doccia, alla seduzione a distanza.
In conclusione: lettura appagante. Anche i vampiri e i mannari gay possono sperare nell’amore...
Alex vorrebbe solo sistemarsi nella sua nuova casa vicino ai boschi, al riparo dai curiosi, e invece si ritrova a organizzare cene e a cantare con i simpatici lupi e il muscoloso vicino ficcanaso, nonché a sfamare pure i gatti selvatici dei dintorni.
Non aspettatevi una trama con colpi di scena incredibili, ma piuttosto un romanzo quasi “domestico”, ricco di affetti, amicizia, battute spiritose. Davvero godibile. Con scene di grandiosa sensualità che mi sono piaciute moltissimo, perché si affidano soprattutto al gioco di sguardi, ai sorrisi, ai sogni sotto la doccia, alla seduzione a distanza.
In conclusione: lettura appagante. Anche i vampiri e i mannari gay possono sperare nell’amore...
November 20, 2015
http://bianchianita1971.blogspot.it/2...
Finalmente un urban fantasy autoconclusivo! Non fraintendetemi, amo le saghe, ma a volte non mi dispiace avere una storia "completa" in un romanzo unico.
Ho apprezzato le novità che l'autrice introduce nel mondo "vampirico": i vampiri sopportano la luce del sole e sono quasi umani fintantochè non trascorrono troppo tempo dentro alla loro bara. Non tutti i vampiri ne possiedono una, ma Alex si: la bara è, per lui, croce e delizia e gli procurerà non pochi problemi.
Ad avermi sorpreso veramente, però, è stato Tate: se anche avevo immaginato alcune situazioni, l'autrice è riuscita a creare un personaggio complesso, sfacettato e originale allo stesso tempo.
Questo è un romanzo senza grossi drammi ma con più di qualche colpo di scena che rendono la lettura piacevole e accattivante: non guasta poi che il bel vampiro sia amico di un gruppo di lupi mannari assai figo ed eterogeneo!
Finalmente un urban fantasy autoconclusivo! Non fraintendetemi, amo le saghe, ma a volte non mi dispiace avere una storia "completa" in un romanzo unico.
Ho apprezzato le novità che l'autrice introduce nel mondo "vampirico": i vampiri sopportano la luce del sole e sono quasi umani fintantochè non trascorrono troppo tempo dentro alla loro bara. Non tutti i vampiri ne possiedono una, ma Alex si: la bara è, per lui, croce e delizia e gli procurerà non pochi problemi.
Ad avermi sorpreso veramente, però, è stato Tate: se anche avevo immaginato alcune situazioni, l'autrice è riuscita a creare un personaggio complesso, sfacettato e originale allo stesso tempo.
Questo è un romanzo senza grossi drammi ma con più di qualche colpo di scena che rendono la lettura piacevole e accattivante: non guasta poi che il bel vampiro sia amico di un gruppo di lupi mannari assai figo ed eterogeneo!
October 7, 2011
The slow pace in this story had me worried at first. That is until I got comfortable with the numerous characters and learned to like them all and care what happened to them. At that point, only lack of sleep forced me to put the book down for a break.
They say "write what you know" and Sarah Madison is a veterinarian, as is one of her main characters Tate. His love interest, Alex, is a vampire and I assume she has no personal experience with those.:) You must read the story almost to the end to find out who or what Tate is.
It's a sweet story of misfits becoming friends and in some cases lovers. Well worth the read.
They say "write what you know" and Sarah Madison is a veterinarian, as is one of her main characters Tate. His love interest, Alex, is a vampire and I assume she has no personal experience with those.:) You must read the story almost to the end to find out who or what Tate is.
It's a sweet story of misfits becoming friends and in some cases lovers. Well worth the read.
July 24, 2011
This was a real nice surprise. Paranormal that had weaknesses. An inventive twist on classic vampire lore. I had so much fun trying to figure out Tate and flip-flopping on what I thought was going on. Absolutely LOVED EPT (Evil Psycho Tom) the feral cat. I even enjoyed the underlying story of Alex's need to belong and then watch him struggle with belonging when he realizes that now he has something to loose.
August 19, 2011
Really Good I enjoyed it so much, i couldnt put it down :)
October 4, 2011
Fangy and Flirty Fun with Claws, Cats, and Coffins
Alexei Novik escaped the vampire Life he'd grown weary of and bought a rundown house in the mountains. All he wants is to be left alone, though he has no doubt that he hasn't heard the last of his power-hungry ex, Victor. With the help of a small pack of werewolves he considers his friends, he settles into his mountain home and starts fixing up the place, ignoring the constant pull of the coffin that regenerates him but which exacts too high a price for it's rejuvenating embrace.
Alex certainly has his solitude; his only regular companion since moving in is a feral tom cat who has taken to hanging out around his property. He's not so reclusive, however, that he's failed to notice the attractiveness of his nearest neighbor, the affable veterinarian Dr. Tate Edwards, as he passes by on his various backs and forths.
As the full moon approaches, Alex's offer to the pack to allow them to hunt in the woods beyond his home starts to sit wrong on his shoulders. He's worried about the human fragility of Tate and the threat to the cat he's taken to calling EPT (Evil Psycho Tom). He doesn't want anything to happen to either of them, though Alex doesn't want to examine those feelings too closely. Giving Tate as neutral a warning as he can while protecting his friends' secrets alleviates some of his concern, but it's not like Alex can warn EPT to watch out for rampaging werewolves when the moon rises.
Even a vampire stays out of the way of a werewolf in wolf form. Their instincts are completely animal, their strength supernatural. When he sees his friend Peter in wolf form racing into the woods after the cat he'd grown so fond of, Alex could only hope EPT would be safe. The sounds of a fight makes his stomach sink, but it's the sudden roar and the yelps of fear, then pain, that sound far too canine that sends Alex racing after them. What he finds chills him. Something in the woods sliced Peter up badly and his alpha, Nick, is ready to tear out Alex's throat because of it.
Quick thinking and Nick's unique abilities are all that stand between Alex and an untimely demise, but unless Peter gets immediate medical assistance, it will be the werewolf who dies on the mountain that night. The only help Alex can offer a werewolf in wolf form is one handsome veterinarian neighbor with a charming smile. Hopefully he'll have a spine of steel, as well, or this is going to be one very long damn night for them all.
~*~
I love when a book surprises me like this one did. I started Crying For The Moon with little information beyond it being a M/M paranormal romance, but I guess even that set up some expectations. While that does accurately describe the genre for the book, it doesn't come close to encompassing the whole of this charming and endearing story.
The lead character, Alex, is a vampire, and most of his friends are werewolves, but the book is just as much about Alex walking away from a life that had become untenable and his struggle to carve out a new life for himself, building and strengthening friendships, and risking his heart on a relationship he hadn't wanted but can't seem to help hoping for. He's a little socially awkward, a little uptight, and can even be sort of adorably clueless. I loved him.
Scenes of Alex working on fixing up his house go hand in hand with scenes of casual dinner parties with friends. Issues of race relations between vampires and werewolves are nestled in between boisterous singing, stray cats, and casual flirting. Paranormal elements butt up against family squabbles and issues of sexuality. All in all, it was a surprisingly multifaceted tale that covered a lot of bases and didn't, really, focus solely on the paranormal elements.
It struck me as a happily odd story with quirky characters; with tender moments, funny moments, and moments that positively charmed me. There were tense scenes and scenes that posed serious danger to the characters, yet the book wasn't dripping in angst, burdened by an overly dark tone, or heavily plotted with grim themes and situations. Alex is the focal point of the story, and he's certainly at a crossroads in his life, but it's not some dour sort of Gothic tale. He's...well...just a guy...a little antisocial, a little perplexed by and envious of the pack bonds his friends share, a little lonely for someone who would value him for who he is instead of what he has, yet fiercely determined not to need anyone. I couldn't help falling for him, really, any more than I could help adoring Tate's more insouciant charm.
There were a few plot threads that were fairly predictable, primarily centered around the external plot conflict, and I felt the world building and exposition were a little on the sparse side in regards to the paranormal elements. There were also a few moments in the book where I felt like I missed previously established backstory, as if there was a previous novella or book with the characters in it somewhere (which is not the case, according to what I could find on the author's website). Still, there was history referred to but never more than cursorily detailed - like Alex's singing career, or why Alex and the pack seemed close friends on one hand, but didn't really know all that much detail about each other on the other, or what motivated Nick and pack to help Alex get away from Victor. None of those were significant issues, per se, but it did make me feel like I had missed out on some interesting storytelling somewhere.
I loved the twists and turns and surprise developments, though. Sure, some of them I'd guessed, but others I hadn't and I appreciated them even more for catching me off guard. When that gets mixed in with the other high points, the entire book just flat-out worked for me. I enjoyed it tremendously and plan to follow up on more of Madison's work.
For fans of contemporary or paranormal romance who are interested in trying out M/M relationship fiction, I'd highly recommend this book. Though it's not what I consider an erotic novel, the attraction between Alex and Tate is intimately charged, and there are a handful of explicit sexual scenes featured. Still, the focus of the plot arc in the book is on the main character, his burgeoning relationships, and the subsequent action, not on sex. In fact, Crying For The Moon is exactly the sort book I would recommend to the M/M novice who would prefer a lighter-toned romance without a bookload of explicitly graphic sex scenes. It would be a well-written and entertaining introduction to the genre. I was very pleased with this book and look forward to checking out much more from Madison in the future.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Dreamspinner Press via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
Alexei Novik escaped the vampire Life he'd grown weary of and bought a rundown house in the mountains. All he wants is to be left alone, though he has no doubt that he hasn't heard the last of his power-hungry ex, Victor. With the help of a small pack of werewolves he considers his friends, he settles into his mountain home and starts fixing up the place, ignoring the constant pull of the coffin that regenerates him but which exacts too high a price for it's rejuvenating embrace.
Alex certainly has his solitude; his only regular companion since moving in is a feral tom cat who has taken to hanging out around his property. He's not so reclusive, however, that he's failed to notice the attractiveness of his nearest neighbor, the affable veterinarian Dr. Tate Edwards, as he passes by on his various backs and forths.
As the full moon approaches, Alex's offer to the pack to allow them to hunt in the woods beyond his home starts to sit wrong on his shoulders. He's worried about the human fragility of Tate and the threat to the cat he's taken to calling EPT (Evil Psycho Tom). He doesn't want anything to happen to either of them, though Alex doesn't want to examine those feelings too closely. Giving Tate as neutral a warning as he can while protecting his friends' secrets alleviates some of his concern, but it's not like Alex can warn EPT to watch out for rampaging werewolves when the moon rises.
Even a vampire stays out of the way of a werewolf in wolf form. Their instincts are completely animal, their strength supernatural. When he sees his friend Peter in wolf form racing into the woods after the cat he'd grown so fond of, Alex could only hope EPT would be safe. The sounds of a fight makes his stomach sink, but it's the sudden roar and the yelps of fear, then pain, that sound far too canine that sends Alex racing after them. What he finds chills him. Something in the woods sliced Peter up badly and his alpha, Nick, is ready to tear out Alex's throat because of it.
Quick thinking and Nick's unique abilities are all that stand between Alex and an untimely demise, but unless Peter gets immediate medical assistance, it will be the werewolf who dies on the mountain that night. The only help Alex can offer a werewolf in wolf form is one handsome veterinarian neighbor with a charming smile. Hopefully he'll have a spine of steel, as well, or this is going to be one very long damn night for them all.
~*~
I love when a book surprises me like this one did. I started Crying For The Moon with little information beyond it being a M/M paranormal romance, but I guess even that set up some expectations. While that does accurately describe the genre for the book, it doesn't come close to encompassing the whole of this charming and endearing story.
The lead character, Alex, is a vampire, and most of his friends are werewolves, but the book is just as much about Alex walking away from a life that had become untenable and his struggle to carve out a new life for himself, building and strengthening friendships, and risking his heart on a relationship he hadn't wanted but can't seem to help hoping for. He's a little socially awkward, a little uptight, and can even be sort of adorably clueless. I loved him.
Scenes of Alex working on fixing up his house go hand in hand with scenes of casual dinner parties with friends. Issues of race relations between vampires and werewolves are nestled in between boisterous singing, stray cats, and casual flirting. Paranormal elements butt up against family squabbles and issues of sexuality. All in all, it was a surprisingly multifaceted tale that covered a lot of bases and didn't, really, focus solely on the paranormal elements.
It struck me as a happily odd story with quirky characters; with tender moments, funny moments, and moments that positively charmed me. There were tense scenes and scenes that posed serious danger to the characters, yet the book wasn't dripping in angst, burdened by an overly dark tone, or heavily plotted with grim themes and situations. Alex is the focal point of the story, and he's certainly at a crossroads in his life, but it's not some dour sort of Gothic tale. He's...well...just a guy...a little antisocial, a little perplexed by and envious of the pack bonds his friends share, a little lonely for someone who would value him for who he is instead of what he has, yet fiercely determined not to need anyone. I couldn't help falling for him, really, any more than I could help adoring Tate's more insouciant charm.
There were a few plot threads that were fairly predictable, primarily centered around the external plot conflict, and I felt the world building and exposition were a little on the sparse side in regards to the paranormal elements. There were also a few moments in the book where I felt like I missed previously established backstory, as if there was a previous novella or book with the characters in it somewhere (which is not the case, according to what I could find on the author's website). Still, there was history referred to but never more than cursorily detailed - like Alex's singing career, or why Alex and the pack seemed close friends on one hand, but didn't really know all that much detail about each other on the other, or what motivated Nick and pack to help Alex get away from Victor. None of those were significant issues, per se, but it did make me feel like I had missed out on some interesting storytelling somewhere.
I loved the twists and turns and surprise developments, though. Sure, some of them I'd guessed, but others I hadn't and I appreciated them even more for catching me off guard. When that gets mixed in with the other high points, the entire book just flat-out worked for me. I enjoyed it tremendously and plan to follow up on more of Madison's work.
For fans of contemporary or paranormal romance who are interested in trying out M/M relationship fiction, I'd highly recommend this book. Though it's not what I consider an erotic novel, the attraction between Alex and Tate is intimately charged, and there are a handful of explicit sexual scenes featured. Still, the focus of the plot arc in the book is on the main character, his burgeoning relationships, and the subsequent action, not on sex. In fact, Crying For The Moon is exactly the sort book I would recommend to the M/M novice who would prefer a lighter-toned romance without a bookload of explicitly graphic sex scenes. It would be a well-written and entertaining introduction to the genre. I was very pleased with this book and look forward to checking out much more from Madison in the future.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Dreamspinner Press via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
June 3, 2017
An interesting and well-written take on shifters and vampires.
July 17, 2011
3.5 stars
My issue with this book is lack of information of the characters. Written in 3rd person narration, the story only comes from Alex's (the vampire) point of view, it feels like I've been pushed into Alex's life without so much of introduction. I'm struggling to get the sense of Alex, his life -- since Ms. Madison infuses a different element to the vampire myth, most notably the connection of a vampire and his coffin, and his relationship with the werewolf pack, which Alex calls his friends. Sure, as the story goes along, I start to get the info here and there and puts pieces to the puzzle. But it takes time to get there, and that's annoying.
Other than that, I enjoy this story ... it's a friendship story in addition to the romance. The supporting characters, the werewolves, are as "visible" in the story as Alex and his love interest, Tate, are. In fact, their bond as pack is as intriguing to read. It's funny that Alex can be so indifferent to his friends' life (he doesn't know that Nick and Peter are gay, while Tate picks that up easily) ... and he learns so much about friendship in the course of the story. In a sense, Alex "comes alive" in this book, since I feel like he has been living rather secluded life prior to the event that brings Tate into his life.
Tate is likeable -- he has this carefree attitude, he waltz into Alex's life like a breeze. Ease being around the werewolves, provides entertainment and food like he's known them for years. Of course, we find out who (or rather what) Tate is near the end of the book, and understand how Tate can accept the supernatural beings as easily ... but by then, I think I'm already charmed with him that I don't really feel misled.
I would love to read more about them. Luckily, there is a free short story about Alex and Tate in Stuff My Stocking: M/M Romance Stories that are Nice and… Naughty, and that is what I'm going to read next :)
My issue with this book is lack of information of the characters. Written in 3rd person narration, the story only comes from Alex's (the vampire) point of view, it feels like I've been pushed into Alex's life without so much of introduction. I'm struggling to get the sense of Alex, his life -- since Ms. Madison infuses a different element to the vampire myth, most notably the connection of a vampire and his coffin, and his relationship with the werewolf pack, which Alex calls his friends. Sure, as the story goes along, I start to get the info here and there and puts pieces to the puzzle. But it takes time to get there, and that's annoying.
Other than that, I enjoy this story ... it's a friendship story in addition to the romance. The supporting characters, the werewolves, are as "visible" in the story as Alex and his love interest, Tate, are. In fact, their bond as pack is as intriguing to read. It's funny that Alex can be so indifferent to his friends' life (he doesn't know that Nick and Peter are gay, while Tate picks that up easily) ... and he learns so much about friendship in the course of the story. In a sense, Alex "comes alive" in this book, since I feel like he has been living rather secluded life prior to the event that brings Tate into his life.
Tate is likeable -- he has this carefree attitude, he waltz into Alex's life like a breeze. Ease being around the werewolves, provides entertainment and food like he's known them for years. Of course, we find out who (or rather what) Tate is near the end of the book, and understand how Tate can accept the supernatural beings as easily ... but by then, I think I'm already charmed with him that I don't really feel misled.
I would love to read more about them. Luckily, there is a free short story about Alex and Tate in Stuff My Stocking: M/M Romance Stories that are Nice and… Naughty, and that is what I'm going to read next :)
November 7, 2014
I've never been a real fan of vampire stories, but this treatment of vampires "fixes" many of the things I don't much care for. I hate that vampires supposedly can't go out in the daytime, because who can live like that, especially in this day and age? How would a vampire explain it? I also dislike that they MUST have blood, usually human, or have some other soul-sucking requirement, even if they try to leave the life and want to be more human.
This book gives us a vampire I much prefer. One who can mostly live in plain sight and be (mostly) human. Sure, he has his oddities and problems--and they are unique. But he has successfully managed to leave the vampire life and be as human as he can be--even if his best friends are a pack of werewolves.
I enjoyed Alexi's friendships with the pack as much as the romance with Tate. Tate is a wonderful character and a great storyteller. I laughed out loud at a couple of his tales as a veterinarian and some of his crazy clients. Add in a couple of hot sex scenes and threats to the pack and this became a great book with action as well as romance.
This book gives us a vampire I much prefer. One who can mostly live in plain sight and be (mostly) human. Sure, he has his oddities and problems--and they are unique. But he has successfully managed to leave the vampire life and be as human as he can be--even if his best friends are a pack of werewolves.
I enjoyed Alexi's friendships with the pack as much as the romance with Tate. Tate is a wonderful character and a great storyteller. I laughed out loud at a couple of his tales as a veterinarian and some of his crazy clients. Add in a couple of hot sex scenes and threats to the pack and this became a great book with action as well as romance.
July 29, 2011
I absolutely adore this book. Yes, Sarah is a friend and so I can be justifiably accused of bias, but I'm fairly sure I would adore this book if I had never met Sarah in my life.
The plot is romantic and humorous, with the leads butting heads or at least trading wit throughout, and I really appreciated how the various supernatural elements were not the stars of the show as they are for so many paranormal romances. The lead, Alex, is a person first and a vampire second, and while what he is plays a large part of who he is, it is not all he is (if that makes sense). He's a great character.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters, Alex's friends who are a pack of werewolves. Everyone here is an outcast of some sort for a variety of reasons, and it is a heartwarming aspect of the story how not just the romance blooms but also the various friendships.
Sarah always manages to put a twist into her stories, and she's very good at world building; both skills are on full display here. Especially in regards to vampire lore, she develops some interesting ideas that are not just plot dressing but critically important to what happens (and has happened in the past) to Alex.
Very enjoyable read, her best work so far IMHO, and I've read a lot of her work! (Lucky me!)
The plot is romantic and humorous, with the leads butting heads or at least trading wit throughout, and I really appreciated how the various supernatural elements were not the stars of the show as they are for so many paranormal romances. The lead, Alex, is a person first and a vampire second, and while what he is plays a large part of who he is, it is not all he is (if that makes sense). He's a great character.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters, Alex's friends who are a pack of werewolves. Everyone here is an outcast of some sort for a variety of reasons, and it is a heartwarming aspect of the story how not just the romance blooms but also the various friendships.
Sarah always manages to put a twist into her stories, and she's very good at world building; both skills are on full display here. Especially in regards to vampire lore, she develops some interesting ideas that are not just plot dressing but critically important to what happens (and has happened in the past) to Alex.
Very enjoyable read, her best work so far IMHO, and I've read a lot of her work! (Lucky me!)
October 21, 2011
I find this book interesting because I did like it, but didn't find myself fully engaged in it. I liked the werewolves enough, but found all the other characters uninteresting. I knew something had to be up with Tate; he was just too accepting and figured out the characters too quickly to be believed. I also found the things that Tate said to Alex, a bit over the top.
The werewolves, like I said, I really liked. I would've liked to learn more about them. Nick and Peter, Tish and Duncan made the book for me. Peter's sister Julie, was just so unnecessary and annoying.
The vampire tale was a bit different. The whole coffin thing was a new spin on the vampire lore.
Overall it was entertaining, but not necessarily deep. There are certain times where the characters remain with you and you want to learn more... this is not one of them for me. I'm not sure if this is the beginning of a series. I would read others to keep up with the werewolves, but Alexei and Tate just don't do much for me.
The werewolves, like I said, I really liked. I would've liked to learn more about them. Nick and Peter, Tish and Duncan made the book for me. Peter's sister Julie, was just so unnecessary and annoying.
The vampire tale was a bit different. The whole coffin thing was a new spin on the vampire lore.
Overall it was entertaining, but not necessarily deep. There are certain times where the characters remain with you and you want to learn more... this is not one of them for me. I'm not sure if this is the beginning of a series. I would read others to keep up with the werewolves, but Alexei and Tate just don't do much for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2011
I liked this story =) Although I'm not a fan of the more gothic and dark vampire lore and those "old school vampires".
I have to say I didn't expect the surprise with cat EPT and Tate (no more spoilers here LOL).
The funny places and bantering here and there were really nice and cute.
I also like how the attention was sort of divided between all the characters, so it's interesting to learn more and more small details about them.
Can't wait for the sequel(s?) =)
Still few questions were left unanswered at least for me.
SPOILER ALERT!
After destroying the coffin, how can Alex possibly avoid scratches and such things when he lives in such close proximity to werewolves and a weretiger? He did show a strong reaction to that injury. And home/car accidents?
How are coffins created? I mean Alex's father/ancestor had to get it somehow in the first place? Is it possible to make a new one? Maybe one that isn't that disastrous for the vamp and his soul?
I have to say I didn't expect the surprise with cat EPT and Tate (no more spoilers here LOL).
The funny places and bantering here and there were really nice and cute.
I also like how the attention was sort of divided between all the characters, so it's interesting to learn more and more small details about them.
Can't wait for the sequel(s?) =)
Still few questions were left unanswered at least for me.
SPOILER ALERT!
After destroying the coffin, how can Alex possibly avoid scratches and such things when he lives in such close proximity to werewolves and a weretiger? He did show a strong reaction to that injury. And home/car accidents?
How are coffins created? I mean Alex's father/ancestor had to get it somehow in the first place? Is it possible to make a new one? Maybe one that isn't that disastrous for the vamp and his soul?
July 24, 2011
I LOVED this! I just loved the characters and how Alex's and Tate's relationship was so natural and slow-building, and how it went from a sort of reluctant friendship to more. I also liked Alex's werewolf friends, especially Nick and Peter. I like how their friendship progressed as well, and really every character was interesting and fleshed out.
Another aspect I liked was that the vampires here were different and unique from what we normally read. I guess my only niggle was that I do wish that there had been an explanation given about how these vampires act and survive earlier in the book since Alex didn't really explain everything until much later in the story. But that's a small problem...overall, I really loved this story and I continue to love Sarah Madison's writing. I look forward to reading more from her!
Another aspect I liked was that the vampires here were different and unique from what we normally read. I guess my only niggle was that I do wish that there had been an explanation given about how these vampires act and survive earlier in the book since Alex didn't really explain everything until much later in the story. But that's a small problem...overall, I really loved this story and I continue to love Sarah Madison's writing. I look forward to reading more from her!
August 14, 2011
Very good paranormal m/m romance about a vampire who's tired of living with other vampires, so he moves to a remote area with the assistance of his werewolf friends. Too bad the vet living up the road is so persistently friendly...
August 12, 2011
The story was really interesting and well written. I liked Tate and Alex as a couple, they were good together. Plot was pulling and enjoyable and I definitely think a sequel would be great.
September 5, 2021
Alex hat als Vampir alle Zeit der welt doch was nutzt das wenn man ewig alleine ist ? Und das er Männer liebt ist unter seinesgleichen nicht wirklich beliebt,doch er hat sich von Victor getrennt ,weil er dessen unmenschliche Art nicht mehr akzeptieren konnte. Ein paar Werwölfe wurden ihm zu Freunden und das neue Haus bietet ihnen die Chance sich gefahrloser wandeln zu können. Doch der Tierarzt Tate aus der Nachbarschaft ist auffallend freundlich und versucht Anschlus zu finden genau wie der herrenlose Kater ,der im Garten von Alex rumstreunert und sich je nach Lust und Laune streicheln läßt oder zuschlägt.
Als einer der Werwölfe bei Vollmond schwer verletzt wird muss Alex sich entscheiden : hilft er seinen Freunden und bittet er den Tierarzt um Hilfe oder bleibt er lieber weiter allein ?
Tate hat scheinbar keinerlei Probleme ,das Alex Werwölfe beherbergt und als der ihm dann gesteht schwul zu sein freut sich Alex ungemein,denn Tate hat sich genau wie der kratzbürstige Kater in sein vampirisches Herz gestohlen.
Doch kann der freundlichste Vampir nicht in Frieden leben wenn sein Ex-Partner noch immer was von ihm will und Alex muss für seine Freunde kämpfen wenn er sie nicht verlieren will.
Eine sehr schöne und recht lustige Geschichte über Menschen ,deren Leben sie eigentlich durch die Laune der Natur zur Feinden gemacht hat ,doch mit gegenseitiger Toleranz wird eine lebenswichtige Freundschaft draus und man findet manchmal die Liebe an Orten ,an denen man es nie für möglich gehalten hätte.
Als einer der Werwölfe bei Vollmond schwer verletzt wird muss Alex sich entscheiden : hilft er seinen Freunden und bittet er den Tierarzt um Hilfe oder bleibt er lieber weiter allein ?
Tate hat scheinbar keinerlei Probleme ,das Alex Werwölfe beherbergt und als der ihm dann gesteht schwul zu sein freut sich Alex ungemein,denn Tate hat sich genau wie der kratzbürstige Kater in sein vampirisches Herz gestohlen.
Doch kann der freundlichste Vampir nicht in Frieden leben wenn sein Ex-Partner noch immer was von ihm will und Alex muss für seine Freunde kämpfen wenn er sie nicht verlieren will.
Eine sehr schöne und recht lustige Geschichte über Menschen ,deren Leben sie eigentlich durch die Laune der Natur zur Feinden gemacht hat ,doch mit gegenseitiger Toleranz wird eine lebenswichtige Freundschaft draus und man findet manchmal die Liebe an Orten ,an denen man es nie für möglich gehalten hätte.
November 10, 2015
Se cercate un m/m romance paranormale che sia ironico, divertente, parecchio hot, e un po’ dissacrante verso vampiri, licantropi e altre bestiacce magiche, questo libro fa per voi.
Persino nei momenti di pathos, sono presenti pensieri lubrici e azioni irriverenti, per stemperarne la drammaticità, quindi ne ricaverete un piacevole passatempo.
Alexei Novik, il nostro protagonista, è un vampiro a dir poco atipico: ama i bei vestiti, il buon vino e ha scelto di allontanarsi dalla “Vita” (l’insieme delle regole e dei comportamenti che un vampiro tradizionale dovrebbe seguire), smettendo di dormire nella sua ‘bara di famiglia’ e di nutrirsi aggredendo le sue vittime.
Alex ha deciso di assecondare il suo lato più umano, diventando un reietto per quelli della sua specie. A lui interessa solamente colmare quel vuoto interiore che sente, perché il suo ultimo legame col vampiro Victor lo ha segnato in modo molto negativo. Vic, benché fossero partner, lo considerava una sua proprietà, con un rapporto asfissiante, geloso e malsano.
Alex ha scelto di scappare da lui e ricominciare lontano, acquistando una vecchia casa da ristrutturare per tenersi impegnato – del resto, la sua immortalità gli permette di fare le cose con calma.
La nuova dimora è volutamente isolata, per evitare impiccioni.
Ma, anche se Alex vuol sembrare un misantropo senza cuore, in verità è più buono e umano di quel che appare. Sebbene vada contro le regole della Vita, e a lui piaccia pensare che siano degli scocciatori, la sua famiglia acquisita è composta da quattro licantropi, ognuno con una storia difficile alle spalle. Alexei non sa molto su di loro, eppure si aiutano e si sostengono reciprocamente.
Il suo progetto di pace agreste viene presto infranto dall’arrivo di Tate Edwards, suo confinante e veterinario della zona.
Malgrado la gelida accoglienza da parte del vampiro, Tate non si fa intimidire e offre aiuto da buon vicino, che prontamente Alex rifiuta, chiedendogli di non tornare mai più.
Galeotti diventano un problema alle tubature e una luna piena, con caccia imprevista e convalescenza forzata, ma prima che Alexei lo capisca, Tate finisce nella sua vita con tutte le scarpe e non è affatto turbato da quegli esseri eccentrici ospitati da Alex né da lui stesso, pur con le sue stranezze.
L’attrazione cresce in fretta fra loro, regalandoci parecchie scene ad alto contenuto erotico e di coccole (il che non guasta).
Una menzione speciale va al gattino randagio che Alex vorrebbe ignorare, ma a cui ben presto si affeziona, a tal punto che teme per lui, quando i suoi amici vanno a caccia nella sua proprietà durante il plenilunio.
La loro pace è sconvolta dall’arrivo di Victor che rivuole Alexei con sé: intende riportarlo alla Vita, con i vampirelli cattivoni, quelli che ti seducono e poi ti ciucciano via tutto; ma ancor più, Victor vuole la ‘bara di famiglia’ che Alex ha ereditato dai genitori, perché è rara e dona immensi poteri.
Per Alex, quella cassa rappresenta, al contempo, un legame affettivo e un fardello.
La resa dei conti vi sorprenderà, perché non è affatto scontata, e mi ha fatta sghignazzare di gusto, ma non voglio spoilerare altro.
Ho amato il modo in cui l’autrice ha preso in giro i cliché sui mostri, senza trasformarli in parodia.
Senza dubbio è una lettura piacevole, per godere di qualche ora divertente.
Persino nei momenti di pathos, sono presenti pensieri lubrici e azioni irriverenti, per stemperarne la drammaticità, quindi ne ricaverete un piacevole passatempo.
Alexei Novik, il nostro protagonista, è un vampiro a dir poco atipico: ama i bei vestiti, il buon vino e ha scelto di allontanarsi dalla “Vita” (l’insieme delle regole e dei comportamenti che un vampiro tradizionale dovrebbe seguire), smettendo di dormire nella sua ‘bara di famiglia’ e di nutrirsi aggredendo le sue vittime.
Alex ha deciso di assecondare il suo lato più umano, diventando un reietto per quelli della sua specie. A lui interessa solamente colmare quel vuoto interiore che sente, perché il suo ultimo legame col vampiro Victor lo ha segnato in modo molto negativo. Vic, benché fossero partner, lo considerava una sua proprietà, con un rapporto asfissiante, geloso e malsano.
Alex ha scelto di scappare da lui e ricominciare lontano, acquistando una vecchia casa da ristrutturare per tenersi impegnato – del resto, la sua immortalità gli permette di fare le cose con calma.
La nuova dimora è volutamente isolata, per evitare impiccioni.
Ma, anche se Alex vuol sembrare un misantropo senza cuore, in verità è più buono e umano di quel che appare. Sebbene vada contro le regole della Vita, e a lui piaccia pensare che siano degli scocciatori, la sua famiglia acquisita è composta da quattro licantropi, ognuno con una storia difficile alle spalle. Alexei non sa molto su di loro, eppure si aiutano e si sostengono reciprocamente.
Il suo progetto di pace agreste viene presto infranto dall’arrivo di Tate Edwards, suo confinante e veterinario della zona.
Malgrado la gelida accoglienza da parte del vampiro, Tate non si fa intimidire e offre aiuto da buon vicino, che prontamente Alex rifiuta, chiedendogli di non tornare mai più.
Galeotti diventano un problema alle tubature e una luna piena, con caccia imprevista e convalescenza forzata, ma prima che Alexei lo capisca, Tate finisce nella sua vita con tutte le scarpe e non è affatto turbato da quegli esseri eccentrici ospitati da Alex né da lui stesso, pur con le sue stranezze.
L’attrazione cresce in fretta fra loro, regalandoci parecchie scene ad alto contenuto erotico e di coccole (il che non guasta).
Una menzione speciale va al gattino randagio che Alex vorrebbe ignorare, ma a cui ben presto si affeziona, a tal punto che teme per lui, quando i suoi amici vanno a caccia nella sua proprietà durante il plenilunio.
La loro pace è sconvolta dall’arrivo di Victor che rivuole Alexei con sé: intende riportarlo alla Vita, con i vampirelli cattivoni, quelli che ti seducono e poi ti ciucciano via tutto; ma ancor più, Victor vuole la ‘bara di famiglia’ che Alex ha ereditato dai genitori, perché è rara e dona immensi poteri.
Per Alex, quella cassa rappresenta, al contempo, un legame affettivo e un fardello.
La resa dei conti vi sorprenderà, perché non è affatto scontata, e mi ha fatta sghignazzare di gusto, ma non voglio spoilerare altro.
Ho amato il modo in cui l’autrice ha preso in giro i cliché sui mostri, senza trasformarli in parodia.
Senza dubbio è una lettura piacevole, per godere di qualche ora divertente.
February 18, 2016
2 stars - Plot what plot?!
This book wasn't entirely bad. I've definitely read worse, but the plot was so wishy-washy it unnerved me. All the "plot points" of the story were described almost with the same calm as a walk in the park, none of them surprised me, despite how sudden they were.
I liked how caring and different Alex was, I liked his relationship with the ware-wolfs, liked that he somehow found a family in them, but at the same time I feel like that part of the book (taking care of the ware, taking care of Peter, dealing with Peter's sister) was too long, too stressed, too 'when are we getting to the point?'.
I didn't like how Victor was handled. I knew he was coming, there was no way that he was being mentioned so many times for nothing, but he was a big disappointment. I don't know what I expected him to do, but I didn't expect him to be such a pathetic excuse of a vampire. I'm not saying that I expected him to kidnap Alex, but to do something! To bring out some real action. Two vampires, a pack of warewolves, a human and a random shifter and nothing happens? It felt a bit like the "battle" in the last book of the Twilight saga, honestly.
But let's speak about what made me frown the hardest: Tate. Oh my God, I /loved/ Tate. I did. For the majority of the book I did, but then came the plot twist and I found myself face-palming. Just... why. No, seriously, explain to me. That discovery was so random! We are given no explanation, the foreshadowing was scarse or non-existent; he just appeared at the right moment to save the situation and be Alex's perfect match! I liked him better when I thought he was only . At least for once there was someone who didn't freak out at discovering that paranormal beings exist (I just think that not everyone would run away frightened, you know? It was nice to have a different reaction, for once), he was so perfectly /normal/, so perfectly boring and ordinary and so special at the same time. I didn't appreciate the plot twist at all. The only positive thing about it is that I adore .
Last but not least important - the coffin. I can't even begin to explain how exasperated I am.
In conclusion, the second half of this book was a incoherent mess to me and the whole thing lacked a strong plot point. The scenario was way too static (almost the whole story happens in Alex's house) and slow.
This book wasn't entirely bad. I've definitely read worse, but the plot was so wishy-washy it unnerved me. All the "plot points" of the story were described almost with the same calm as a walk in the park, none of them surprised me, despite how sudden they were.
I liked how caring and different Alex was, I liked his relationship with the ware-wolfs, liked that he somehow found a family in them, but at the same time I feel like that part of the book (taking care of the ware, taking care of Peter, dealing with Peter's sister) was too long, too stressed, too 'when are we getting to the point?'.
I didn't like how Victor was handled. I knew he was coming, there was no way that he was being mentioned so many times for nothing, but he was a big disappointment. I don't know what I expected him to do, but I didn't expect him to be such a pathetic excuse of a vampire. I'm not saying that I expected him to kidnap Alex, but to do something! To bring out some real action. Two vampires, a pack of warewolves, a human and a random shifter and nothing happens? It felt a bit like the "battle" in the last book of the Twilight saga, honestly.
But let's speak about what made me frown the hardest: Tate. Oh my God, I /loved/ Tate. I did. For the majority of the book I did, but then came the plot twist and I found myself face-palming. Just... why. No, seriously, explain to me. That discovery was so random! We are given no explanation, the foreshadowing was scarse or non-existent; he just appeared at the right moment to save the situation and be Alex's perfect match! I liked him better when I thought he was only . At least for once there was someone who didn't freak out at discovering that paranormal beings exist (I just think that not everyone would run away frightened, you know? It was nice to have a different reaction, for once), he was so perfectly /normal/, so perfectly boring and ordinary and so special at the same time. I didn't appreciate the plot twist at all. The only positive thing about it is that I adore .
Last but not least important - the coffin. I can't even begin to explain how exasperated I am.
In conclusion, the second half of this book was a incoherent mess to me and the whole thing lacked a strong plot point. The scenario was way too static (almost the whole story happens in Alex's house) and slow.
August 11, 2011
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.
Expected Release Date: July 22, 2011 (Available Now!)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Imprint: N/A
Author’s Website: http://www.sarahmadisonfiction.com/
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: No
Series Best Read In Order: N/A
Steam Level: Hot
Alexei Novik is tired of the Life. Making a clean break from his controlling lover, Victor, he moves to a remote house in the Blue Ridge Mountains, avoiding both feeding on humans and using his coffin in an effort to put the Life behind him and enjoy some well-deserved solitude.
His plans go awry, however, when his sexy next door neighbor Tate blithely ignores Alexei's rudeness and introduces himself to all of Alexei's friends. A local veterinarian, the oh-so-sexy Tate quickly offers his services as handyman (and hints at maybe a few other services he wouldn't mind performing) if Alexei ever needs it.
It turns out, Tate's offer is a damned good thing, because it isn't long before the ramshackle house begins to seemingly fall apart at the seams, and coupled with Alexei's ill-preparedness to have his werewolf friends over for the full moon, Alexei is in over his head.
When something goes horribly wrong on the night of the full moon, Tate comes swooping in to the rescue, and Alexei can't resist both his innate charm and his easy acceptance of the paranormal. Knowing that being together can only put Tate in danger, as those vampires who resent Alexei's refusal to embrace the Life pose a huge threat to anyone Alexei cares about, he tries to resist Tate's advances. However, the intense attraction crackling between them cannot be denied.
I've noticed that there aren't that many good m/m paranormal romances out there. Oh, don't get me wrong, there are plenty with aliens and off-planet or futuristic vibes, but I personally haven't come across that many with vampires and werewolves, so I knew as soon as I read the blurb that I had to pick this one up.
In the end, this was an incredibly fun, deliciously hot read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The mythology was a fresh spin on the same old same old, the sex was hot, and the characters were each interesting in their own right. I loved reading about the Life, as well as watching Alexei slowly start to think of Tate and the pack as family, despite the fact that vampires are almost always solitary creatures.
Tate felt a little bit too perfect in my opinion, and the Big Bad was a bit on the cliche side, but even so, it was a very enjoyable read. 4/5 Stars
Expected Release Date: July 22, 2011 (Available Now!)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Imprint: N/A
Author’s Website: http://www.sarahmadisonfiction.com/
My Source for This Book: Netgalley
Part of a Series: No
Series Best Read In Order: N/A
Steam Level: Hot
Alexei Novik is tired of the Life. Making a clean break from his controlling lover, Victor, he moves to a remote house in the Blue Ridge Mountains, avoiding both feeding on humans and using his coffin in an effort to put the Life behind him and enjoy some well-deserved solitude.
His plans go awry, however, when his sexy next door neighbor Tate blithely ignores Alexei's rudeness and introduces himself to all of Alexei's friends. A local veterinarian, the oh-so-sexy Tate quickly offers his services as handyman (and hints at maybe a few other services he wouldn't mind performing) if Alexei ever needs it.
It turns out, Tate's offer is a damned good thing, because it isn't long before the ramshackle house begins to seemingly fall apart at the seams, and coupled with Alexei's ill-preparedness to have his werewolf friends over for the full moon, Alexei is in over his head.
When something goes horribly wrong on the night of the full moon, Tate comes swooping in to the rescue, and Alexei can't resist both his innate charm and his easy acceptance of the paranormal. Knowing that being together can only put Tate in danger, as those vampires who resent Alexei's refusal to embrace the Life pose a huge threat to anyone Alexei cares about, he tries to resist Tate's advances. However, the intense attraction crackling between them cannot be denied.
I've noticed that there aren't that many good m/m paranormal romances out there. Oh, don't get me wrong, there are plenty with aliens and off-planet or futuristic vibes, but I personally haven't come across that many with vampires and werewolves, so I knew as soon as I read the blurb that I had to pick this one up.
In the end, this was an incredibly fun, deliciously hot read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The mythology was a fresh spin on the same old same old, the sex was hot, and the characters were each interesting in their own right. I loved reading about the Life, as well as watching Alexei slowly start to think of Tate and the pack as family, despite the fact that vampires are almost always solitary creatures.
Tate felt a little bit too perfect in my opinion, and the Big Bad was a bit on the cliche side, but even so, it was a very enjoyable read. 4/5 Stars
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