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Forbidden #1
Forbidden Blood
A repressed vampire princess. A handsome stranger. A forbidden night that changes everything.
Next in line to lead the vampire species, Naya Kensington is set to mate with a male of her parents’ choosing. But before she’s trapped in a loveless relationship forever, she breaks the rules and crosses the river to attend a new nightclub.
Discontent and numb, everything changes when she meets Vaughn Llewelyn. He’s unlike any human she’s ever met before, and he makes her feel something again.
What Naya doesn’t know is that Vaughn is a cat-shifter, and once he senses Naya, he and his cat want her.
Breaking her own rules, Naya takes Vaughn home for the night and does the unthinkable.
She drinks his blood. Something she’s only allowed to do from other vampires—and never from a male she’s not mated with.
Neither Naya nor Vaughn could imagine how this act will change both of their lives forever…as well as the world of everyone around them.
Forbidden Blood is the first book in R.L. Kenderson's hot paranormal romance series. If you like alpha males, spicy supernatural characters, forbidden love, and steamy sex, then you'll love the first installment in this page-turning series.
Buy Forbidden Blood and enter the seductive world of the forbidden today!
Next in line to lead the vampire species, Naya Kensington is set to mate with a male of her parents’ choosing. But before she’s trapped in a loveless relationship forever, she breaks the rules and crosses the river to attend a new nightclub.
Discontent and numb, everything changes when she meets Vaughn Llewelyn. He’s unlike any human she’s ever met before, and he makes her feel something again.
What Naya doesn’t know is that Vaughn is a cat-shifter, and once he senses Naya, he and his cat want her.
Breaking her own rules, Naya takes Vaughn home for the night and does the unthinkable.
She drinks his blood. Something she’s only allowed to do from other vampires—and never from a male she’s not mated with.
Neither Naya nor Vaughn could imagine how this act will change both of their lives forever…as well as the world of everyone around them.
Forbidden Blood is the first book in R.L. Kenderson's hot paranormal romance series. If you like alpha males, spicy supernatural characters, forbidden love, and steamy sex, then you'll love the first installment in this page-turning series.
Buy Forbidden Blood and enter the seductive world of the forbidden today!
305 pages, ebook
First published July 1, 2014
1097 people are currently reading
2402 people want to read
About the author
R.L. Kenderson
65 books1,174 followersR.L. Kenderson is two best friends writing under one name.
They met in college and bonded over their love of reading and the TV show Charmed.
They write spicy romance that often makes you laugh.
VISIT THEIR AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
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They met in college and bonded over their love of reading and the TV show Charmed.
They write spicy romance that often makes you laugh.
VISIT THEIR AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://www.amazon.com/author/rlkende...
VISIT THEM ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/rlkenderson
JOIN THEIR FACEBOOK READER GROUP!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/rlken...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
September 25, 2018
Forbidden Blood re-read. I won a signed Paperback copy! It's no secret I love these two authors who make up R.L.Kenderson. I'm super excited to own my own special book.
Vampire Princess Anaya Kensington has a lot on her mind. She has some big responsibilities and Naya wants to please her family. It's hard being a princess and the sole heir to the vampire throne. She is expected to settle down and show she can be a good leader. Naya should marry for strategy instead of love. Her family have always been protective of her and Naya is sheltered from some of the world truths. Luckily she was able to attend college and meet her best best friend who happens to be a human.
Princess Naya needs to unwind and relax before accepting her fate. She finds herself agreeing to a night out with her best friend, Kenzie. When she enters the nightclub she feels a male presence like never before. One night of guilt free pleasure can't hurt right? Naya is usually a good girl and doesn't bring strangers home but she just can't resist Vaughn.
Emerson is everyone's first choice for future vampire King, well everyone except Naya. He's a nice enough vampire but her heart and body already belongs to someone else. One night with Vaughn and Naya's responsibilities feel heavier than ever. Vaughn is more than meets the eye and Naya may have found her forbidden pleasure for more than one night.
I forgot how funny Sawyer is right from the beginning. He's such a grump and I love it! We meet so many of the characters we learn to love over the series in the first book and I'm really glad I gave this book a second look.
Intended for an adult audience.
It's still 5 stars out 5. I loved every minute of Forbidden Blood.
Vampire Princess Anaya Kensington has a lot on her mind. She has some big responsibilities and Naya wants to please her family. It's hard being a princess and the sole heir to the vampire throne. She is expected to settle down and show she can be a good leader. Naya should marry for strategy instead of love. Her family have always been protective of her and Naya is sheltered from some of the world truths. Luckily she was able to attend college and meet her best best friend who happens to be a human.
Princess Naya needs to unwind and relax before accepting her fate. She finds herself agreeing to a night out with her best friend, Kenzie. When she enters the nightclub she feels a male presence like never before. One night of guilt free pleasure can't hurt right? Naya is usually a good girl and doesn't bring strangers home but she just can't resist Vaughn.
Emerson is everyone's first choice for future vampire King, well everyone except Naya. He's a nice enough vampire but her heart and body already belongs to someone else. One night with Vaughn and Naya's responsibilities feel heavier than ever. Vaughn is more than meets the eye and Naya may have found her forbidden pleasure for more than one night.
I forgot how funny Sawyer is right from the beginning. He's such a grump and I love it! We meet so many of the characters we learn to love over the series in the first book and I'm really glad I gave this book a second look.
Intended for an adult audience.
It's still 5 stars out 5. I loved every minute of Forbidden Blood.
March 27, 2018
Forbidden Blood-5 stars
An excellent book about a, vampire princess and the Prince of the cat shifters. They have no idea who the other is when they meet, just that they're crazy about each other.
Not everyone is as crazy, as they are about their relationship. Things get very tense, within their families. Both families are mad, to say the least. The princess had her whole life planned out for her, down to who she would marry, (something she was not happy about). Now, she won't be able too meet her family obligations.
While all this family drama is playing out, there is evil in the background. Planning the demise of the dominant cat shifter family, along with the princess. There's always that person who wants to become leader. However, they know they don't have a chance, doing things properly, by challenging the Alpha to a fight. So, Mr looser plans behind everyone's back. Well, while having others doing his dirty work. A big mistake is made during a kidnapping, what will happen now?
A lot happens in this book, it's pure addiction once you start reading it. The characters are awesome, all with such different personalities. I loved these characters, they act and respond, like you'd expect. The story is rich and flowing, without mistakes. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book. I hope there all this good as this one, if so I'll be a very happy girl.
I was given a copy of this book to read. I wrote the review on my own.
An excellent book about a, vampire princess and the Prince of the cat shifters. They have no idea who the other is when they meet, just that they're crazy about each other.
Not everyone is as crazy, as they are about their relationship. Things get very tense, within their families. Both families are mad, to say the least. The princess had her whole life planned out for her, down to who she would marry, (something she was not happy about). Now, she won't be able too meet her family obligations.
While all this family drama is playing out, there is evil in the background. Planning the demise of the dominant cat shifter family, along with the princess. There's always that person who wants to become leader. However, they know they don't have a chance, doing things properly, by challenging the Alpha to a fight. So, Mr looser plans behind everyone's back. Well, while having others doing his dirty work. A big mistake is made during a kidnapping, what will happen now?
A lot happens in this book, it's pure addiction once you start reading it. The characters are awesome, all with such different personalities. I loved these characters, they act and respond, like you'd expect. The story is rich and flowing, without mistakes. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book. I hope there all this good as this one, if so I'll be a very happy girl.
I was given a copy of this book to read. I wrote the review on my own.
June 27, 2014
Well, color me surprised! I really liked this book! I have a love/hate relationship with Paranormal romance.
I looooove some of them, but eye roll at many of them. I love suspending belief and I love when the rules of the world change so that a whole new world is created. I love the insta love that comes with mating bonds, I love the *idea* of drinking blood, I love the possessiveness that comes with shifter mating or vamp instict, and I love the hierarchies created within groups of paranormal creatures. And guess what? All of that was in this book.
So yeah, I really, really enjoyed this story.
I'm not one of those people who scoff at insta love. My husband and I felt that instant connection twelve years ago. I absolutely believe in it happening, albeit rarely. The fact that it could be a mystical, chemical connection between these two is a titillating excuse to push them together. Naya is a vampire princess, in line to be queen and of an age that her parents are pushing for a mating with a male of their choosing. She feels eyes upon her one night at a club, and later meets Vaughn, with whom she has some strong and sexy urges and proceeds to act completely out of character with when she brings him home for a one night stand.
Naya is an easy character to like. She's not outstandingly dynamic, I don't think, but that's also part of her charm. I could tell right off that she may have been groomed to be queen, but her heart wasn't in it. Not in the way her parents wanted her to be. She volunteers at an animal shelter, likes her alone time, and has a human (gasp!) as a best friend.
Vaughn, on the other hand, is such an outstanding guy. He's alpha but not a jerk. I kind of wish he's been a bit more outwardly alpha, but on the other hand, part of what I like about him was that he was quietly powerful. Rarely did he throw his power around. It's that calm, cool demeanor and his decisive actions that make him a fantastic leader. Well done.
Why not five stars? I felt like some things were glossed over and I was left very frustrated. The ending in particular. There was this huge build up to a big...something...and I kept looking at my page numbers, watching them dwindling and wondering how the heck they were going to wrap all of this up in so few pages. I finally realized that there was no way they could, and sure enough, that build up was all for the next book. Which is okay, I guess, but I was left wanting. I just wish that was handled differently, or possibly that the next book was out already :D:D Greedy? Of course :D:D
For me, my favorite part about the story was all of the secondary characters and subplots going on. There is a LOT taking place in this story! I see the setup for many more books to come, and I haven't been this excited about a paranormal series since Aline Hunter's Alpha and Omega series or...dare I say it...Lara Adrian's Midnight Breed series. In comparison, there is a simply fantastic group of men and women who are already standout characters, already having certain pairings in the works, and have me intrigued enough to be clamoring for the next book.
Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I looooove some of them, but eye roll at many of them. I love suspending belief and I love when the rules of the world change so that a whole new world is created. I love the insta love that comes with mating bonds, I love the *idea* of drinking blood, I love the possessiveness that comes with shifter mating or vamp instict, and I love the hierarchies created within groups of paranormal creatures. And guess what? All of that was in this book.
So yeah, I really, really enjoyed this story.
I'm not one of those people who scoff at insta love. My husband and I felt that instant connection twelve years ago. I absolutely believe in it happening, albeit rarely. The fact that it could be a mystical, chemical connection between these two is a titillating excuse to push them together. Naya is a vampire princess, in line to be queen and of an age that her parents are pushing for a mating with a male of their choosing. She feels eyes upon her one night at a club, and later meets Vaughn, with whom she has some strong and sexy urges and proceeds to act completely out of character with when she brings him home for a one night stand.
Naya is an easy character to like. She's not outstandingly dynamic, I don't think, but that's also part of her charm. I could tell right off that she may have been groomed to be queen, but her heart wasn't in it. Not in the way her parents wanted her to be. She volunteers at an animal shelter, likes her alone time, and has a human (gasp!) as a best friend.
Vaughn, on the other hand, is such an outstanding guy. He's alpha but not a jerk. I kind of wish he's been a bit more outwardly alpha, but on the other hand, part of what I like about him was that he was quietly powerful. Rarely did he throw his power around. It's that calm, cool demeanor and his decisive actions that make him a fantastic leader. Well done.
Why not five stars? I felt like some things were glossed over and I was left very frustrated. The ending in particular. There was this huge build up to a big...something...and I kept looking at my page numbers, watching them dwindling and wondering how the heck they were going to wrap all of this up in so few pages. I finally realized that there was no way they could, and sure enough, that build up was all for the next book. Which is okay, I guess, but I was left wanting. I just wish that was handled differently, or possibly that the next book was out already :D:D Greedy? Of course :D:D
For me, my favorite part about the story was all of the secondary characters and subplots going on. There is a LOT taking place in this story! I see the setup for many more books to come, and I haven't been this excited about a paranormal series since Aline Hunter's Alpha and Omega series or...dare I say it...Lara Adrian's Midnight Breed series. In comparison, there is a simply fantastic group of men and women who are already standout characters, already having certain pairings in the works, and have me intrigued enough to be clamoring for the next book.
Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2014
☆I was given an ARC by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!☆
Anaya “Naya” Kensington is the Vampire Princess and the next in line for the throne. She has lived a very luxurious and privileged life but what she craves most is to have freedom and choice in her life.
That is until, when an opportunity leads her to going a club on the “wrong side of the tracks” where she then meets mysterious Vaughn Llewelyn.
Then that very dark and steamy night, his blood sings to her and they create an insurmountable bond.
**Sounds pretty simple right? Oh how wrong you are!**
There's just one problem: Vaughn is a human (or so Naya believes) and it is absolutely forbidden to drink from humans. Not only would it expose the vampire species but only vampire blood can sustain another vampire. Human blood is too weak and tainted.
Now drawn together by an indisputable attraction, can these two individuals from opposite sides find a way to co-exist? And with Vaughn’s own secrets and obligations to uphold, how will his and Naya’s taboo romance weather against the toughest of oppositions? Not to mention, with danger and scheming lurking in the air, will they be able to withstand those who plan to make rid of them? Read and you will find out!
My thoughts: As an entirety, I liked this story. The authors did a great job in explaining the nature of vampires (as well as other mystical beings) and the whole mythology behind them. It was a nice twist in vampiric fiction.
However, I do have three main criticisms: (#1) I would have liked to see a more thoroughly developed relationship between Naya and Vaugh before they “fell in love”. (#2) Too many subplots and characters POV switches throughout the book. Made me feel bombarded. (#3) The ending. It ended rather haste.
While my first criticism is pretty self explanatory, I just felt that something was missing to honestly buy “Navaugh” as a couple. I don’t know what it is exactly I wanted, but I wasn’t 100% sold on them when it came to other things outside of sex.
As for my second criticism regarding feeling bombarded throughout the story: I just felt overwhelmed by the amount of events and POV's that would go on at once. It was like experiencing a whiplash from momentum going into one character’s mind in one chapter and then the next chapter jumping into another’s. I mean, while I did like the dual complexity of this book, sometimes less could have been more for it. I thought that some of the POV foretelling and shifting sometimes took out from the book as it often divulged too much motives and revelations and made some things easy to predict. Not saying that the suspense factor was absent per say because it really highlighted at the ending with some of the characters' fates in question. I just thought that it would have been much nicer to have been cut back on this or perhaps have their thoughts fade out so that readers could have had more suspense to keep us guessing.
Last but not least... the ending. Nothing was wrong content wise but it was a pretty rushed is all. If I had it my way I would have liked a couple of things expanded just a little more (*since I'm greedy like that! hehe*) but that's just me.
Over all though, a lovely lovely read! I really LOVED this book and it does have potential. I will definitely be sticking it out for books two and three and the rest of the characters in R.L. Kenderson’ world! Great debut ladies!
Anaya “Naya” Kensington is the Vampire Princess and the next in line for the throne. She has lived a very luxurious and privileged life but what she craves most is to have freedom and choice in her life.
That is until, when an opportunity leads her to going a club on the “wrong side of the tracks” where she then meets mysterious Vaughn Llewelyn.
Then that very dark and steamy night, his blood sings to her and they create an insurmountable bond.
**Sounds pretty simple right? Oh how wrong you are!**
There's just one problem: Vaughn is a human (or so Naya believes) and it is absolutely forbidden to drink from humans. Not only would it expose the vampire species but only vampire blood can sustain another vampire. Human blood is too weak and tainted.
Now drawn together by an indisputable attraction, can these two individuals from opposite sides find a way to co-exist? And with Vaughn’s own secrets and obligations to uphold, how will his and Naya’s taboo romance weather against the toughest of oppositions? Not to mention, with danger and scheming lurking in the air, will they be able to withstand those who plan to make rid of them? Read and you will find out!
My thoughts: As an entirety, I liked this story. The authors did a great job in explaining the nature of vampires (as well as other mystical beings) and the whole mythology behind them. It was a nice twist in vampiric fiction.
However, I do have three main criticisms: (#1) I would have liked to see a more thoroughly developed relationship between Naya and Vaugh before they “fell in love”. (#2) Too many subplots and characters POV switches throughout the book. Made me feel bombarded. (#3) The ending. It ended rather haste.
While my first criticism is pretty self explanatory, I just felt that something was missing to honestly buy “Navaugh” as a couple. I don’t know what it is exactly I wanted, but I wasn’t 100% sold on them when it came to other things outside of sex.
As for my second criticism regarding feeling bombarded throughout the story: I just felt overwhelmed by the amount of events and POV's that would go on at once. It was like experiencing a whiplash from momentum going into one character’s mind in one chapter and then the next chapter jumping into another’s. I mean, while I did like the dual complexity of this book, sometimes less could have been more for it. I thought that some of the POV foretelling and shifting sometimes took out from the book as it often divulged too much motives and revelations and made some things easy to predict. Not saying that the suspense factor was absent per say because it really highlighted at the ending with some of the characters' fates in question. I just thought that it would have been much nicer to have been cut back on this or perhaps have their thoughts fade out so that readers could have had more suspense to keep us guessing.
Last but not least... the ending. Nothing was wrong content wise but it was a pretty rushed is all. If I had it my way I would have liked a couple of things expanded just a little more (*since I'm greedy like that! hehe*) but that's just me.
Over all though, a lovely lovely read! I really LOVED this book and it does have potential. I will definitely be sticking it out for books two and three and the rest of the characters in R.L. Kenderson’ world! Great debut ladies!
August 21, 2017
Vaughn is a cat-shifter and the next alpha of the Minnesota Pride. Naya is a vampire princess and future queen. They meet at a nightclub and feel attracted to each other. When Naya becomes pregnant, her parents drive to Vaughn's parent's house and confront them. Vaughn and Naya are shocked to see each other. They decide to slip away while their parents argue.
Vaughn learns Naya must drink from him during her pregnancy. They decide to move in together. But is Vaughn agreeing because of the baby or because he has feelings for Naya? What of Naya being the future queen? Will she want the throne or will she abduct? Will the Pride accept an alpha with a vampire mate?
This story has several issues to be resolved. Thankfully, the author ties them up nicely through the plot and the subplots. Even though this novel has a cliffhanger, it isn't as obvious because of the epilogue. The characters are likeable and are known through their dialogue and descriptions. This novel contains adult language and explicit sex.
Vaughn learns Naya must drink from him during her pregnancy. They decide to move in together. But is Vaughn agreeing because of the baby or because he has feelings for Naya? What of Naya being the future queen? Will she want the throne or will she abduct? Will the Pride accept an alpha with a vampire mate?
This story has several issues to be resolved. Thankfully, the author ties them up nicely through the plot and the subplots. Even though this novel has a cliffhanger, it isn't as obvious because of the epilogue. The characters are likeable and are known through their dialogue and descriptions. This novel contains adult language and explicit sex.
dnf
September 17, 2020DNF@49% Yikes second book in one night to dump. This book is a mess. I don't like the three stories happening at once. It's very hard to connect with any of them. I prefer my H to be possessive but I didn't find that in this one. The h is a vampire who is so naive she doesn't even know she's been sleeping and feeding from a shifter or that she's pregnant. On another note the h is a vampire princess and is the sole heir to the vampire throne. Her parents were arranging a marriage for her which obviously now isn't happening.
January 23, 2020
Sometimes I find myself reading yet disconnected which was the case here. I may re-read this down the road and change my opinion. As of this moment though...
Vampire Princess Naya was to weak for me. She allowed her family to push her around and put up zero effort to thwart their plans. If a particular situation had not happened she would have married for their approval verse for her heart. Being the next in line for Queen I expected a stronger female, and being the love interest of a dominant future alpha shifter I would have expected stronger physically and mentally. I would definitely rate her a 1 star.
Future alpha Vaughn was everything you would want in a dominate MC. Protective, strong, and possessive. Yet, being paired with such a weak mate I found myself becoming bored and less interested in him as well.
The world build has potential for excitement. Some secondary characters were interesting yet some seem as weak as Naya which was disappointing. Probably will continue the series, but not is a rush to pick up book 2.
Happy reading! DD
Vampire Princess Naya was to weak for me. She allowed her family to push her around and put up zero effort to thwart their plans. If a particular situation had not happened she would have married for their approval verse for her heart. Being the next in line for Queen I expected a stronger female, and being the love interest of a dominant future alpha shifter I would have expected stronger physically and mentally. I would definitely rate her a 1 star.
Future alpha Vaughn was everything you would want in a dominate MC. Protective, strong, and possessive. Yet, being paired with such a weak mate I found myself becoming bored and less interested in him as well.
The world build has potential for excitement. Some secondary characters were interesting yet some seem as weak as Naya which was disappointing. Probably will continue the series, but not is a rush to pick up book 2.
Happy reading! DD
Want to read
August 24, 2021FREE on Amazon today (11/08/2017)!
November 26, 2017
Actual Rating: 4.25
Full review and more also on my blog!
I initially picked this up from Netgalley but then later saw it free for a day on Amazon and picked it up there too so I have it, though it was still free either way.
I love vampires! I have since I first saw Buffy the vampire slayer. I saw vampires and paranormal romance I was like YES, GIVE IT TO MEEEE but i'm still new to the paranormal romance genre, even though I already knew i'm a sucker for vampires. And I am so glad I picked this up!
Because I did love this over-all let's get my one issue with it out of the way. At times it seemed, to me, painfully heteronormative. I'm bisexual and can gladly read any romance, m-f, f-f, m-m, m-m-f, f-f-m etc. I don't care as long as it's well written. I'm just talking about me personally here, not saying others can't.
This is very erotic which I wasn't expecting (not my problem with it, I loved it!) so of course there is plenty of arousal at certain things and possessiveness (but not in a bad way, i'll get to more on that later). Some of the things I am talking about in terms of heteronormative-ness "Along with the bond it created, this was probably why unmated vampires fed from the wrist of someone of the same gender" "Did the opposite gender's blood cause sexual urges?" it's never mentioned what about gay or bi vampires? I can get how it would be switched around for gay vampires but bisexual ones? Are they just doomed to always be horny and want to fuck everyone, ya know, the stereotype for bisexual people? This is literally my only issue with the book, which yes it bugged me, but I found so much more to love about this story!
There are also shifters (cats and wolves) in this book and they can be possessive of their mates. Each person does have a different personality and is well thought out, which I loved. Just because someone is a cat shifter and has that possessive-ness doesn't mean they have to be a jerk about it or scary. They can still temper it with their human side, think, and be caring and attentive to others wants and needs and not be, well a huge jerk about it for lack of knowing how to better say it. Being an Alpha does not have to go hand in hand with being a jerk as this book ended up showing and I loved it!
Due to the differences in shifter and vampire culture there were some mixed signals in the book but eventually communication would happen and it'd be worked out.
I loved learning about how vampires and shifters worked in this book. I also really enjoyed all the different characters. There are several POV's in this story and normally I get confused very easily but thankfully that didn't happen here. I still found it easy to know who was who and what was going on. Sure I don't love all the characters but I love their characterization. They are all different and complex, learning more about them as it goes on. I know real people like them exist and could easily believe people would act the way they were. I also loved how it touched on important themes, messages and had strong characters. I am living for these character arcs! This book had my emotions going all over the place and by the end, there were tears!
I am loving the plot too. I'm trying to not give too much away though this book is making that hard! Yes, it's erotica and has sex scenes, but it also has well developed characters and a thought-out plot! I am invested in what is going to happen to these characters, the plot is believable (as long as you can get behind vampires and shifters existing which I love paranormal stuff like this personally) and I need to know what happens next! Also Naya and Vaughn are now my OTP.
If you are into paranormal romance and this sounds like something you'd be interested in, i'd definitely recommend picking it up!
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Full review and more also on my blog!
I initially picked this up from Netgalley but then later saw it free for a day on Amazon and picked it up there too so I have it, though it was still free either way.
I love vampires! I have since I first saw Buffy the vampire slayer. I saw vampires and paranormal romance I was like YES, GIVE IT TO MEEEE but i'm still new to the paranormal romance genre, even though I already knew i'm a sucker for vampires. And I am so glad I picked this up!
Because I did love this over-all let's get my one issue with it out of the way. At times it seemed, to me, painfully heteronormative. I'm bisexual and can gladly read any romance, m-f, f-f, m-m, m-m-f, f-f-m etc. I don't care as long as it's well written. I'm just talking about me personally here, not saying others can't.
This is very erotic which I wasn't expecting (not my problem with it, I loved it!) so of course there is plenty of arousal at certain things and possessiveness (but not in a bad way, i'll get to more on that later). Some of the things I am talking about in terms of heteronormative-ness "Along with the bond it created, this was probably why unmated vampires fed from the wrist of someone of the same gender" "Did the opposite gender's blood cause sexual urges?" it's never mentioned what about gay or bi vampires? I can get how it would be switched around for gay vampires but bisexual ones? Are they just doomed to always be horny and want to fuck everyone, ya know, the stereotype for bisexual people? This is literally my only issue with the book, which yes it bugged me, but I found so much more to love about this story!
There are also shifters (cats and wolves) in this book and they can be possessive of their mates. Each person does have a different personality and is well thought out, which I loved. Just because someone is a cat shifter and has that possessive-ness doesn't mean they have to be a jerk about it or scary. They can still temper it with their human side, think, and be caring and attentive to others wants and needs and not be, well a huge jerk about it for lack of knowing how to better say it. Being an Alpha does not have to go hand in hand with being a jerk as this book ended up showing and I loved it!
Due to the differences in shifter and vampire culture there were some mixed signals in the book but eventually communication would happen and it'd be worked out.
I loved learning about how vampires and shifters worked in this book. I also really enjoyed all the different characters. There are several POV's in this story and normally I get confused very easily but thankfully that didn't happen here. I still found it easy to know who was who and what was going on. Sure I don't love all the characters but I love their characterization. They are all different and complex, learning more about them as it goes on. I know real people like them exist and could easily believe people would act the way they were. I also loved how it touched on important themes, messages and had strong characters. I am living for these character arcs! This book had my emotions going all over the place and by the end, there were tears!
I am loving the plot too. I'm trying to not give too much away though this book is making that hard! Yes, it's erotica and has sex scenes, but it also has well developed characters and a thought-out plot! I am invested in what is going to happen to these characters, the plot is believable (as long as you can get behind vampires and shifters existing which I love paranormal stuff like this personally) and I need to know what happens next! Also Naya and Vaughn are now my OTP.
If you are into paranormal romance and this sounds like something you'd be interested in, i'd definitely recommend picking it up!
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April 14, 2018
b>I received an ARC from the Author
I am extremely grateful to the authors for allowing me to read an ARC of their book as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I don't really understand how two people can write a book together. I find the idea baffling. Needless to say though, I liked this author's style of writing. I look forward to reading more books by them in the future.
What is Vaughn? I liked that you aren't told right away what he actually is. Human? Vampire? Something else? You're given little hints/clues the further into the book you read. I enjoyed the mystery.
If I had known, before I started reading this, that the story would be told from about 9 POV's (some characters having maybe only a couple of pages to their name whereas others, like Naya and Vaughn, having numerous chapters) I most likely would have decided not to read it. I think a book should only be told between 1 and 4 POV's, more than that and reading it would be too confusing. Even though there is a large number of POV's, I found it actually to be very easy to read.
There is only one thing concerning this book that I am unhappy about - the fact that I now have to wait, I don't know how long, for the next book in this series. Although I wouldn't say this has a cliff hanger as such, you are left in limbo thinking 'what the he'll happened to them?' (if you read this book you will understand what I am talking about) so I am very eager for the next book.
I am extremely grateful to the authors for allowing me to read an ARC of their book as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I don't really understand how two people can write a book together. I find the idea baffling. Needless to say though, I liked this author's style of writing. I look forward to reading more books by them in the future.
What is Vaughn? I liked that you aren't told right away what he actually is. Human? Vampire? Something else? You're given little hints/clues the further into the book you read. I enjoyed the mystery.
If I had known, before I started reading this, that the story would be told from about 9 POV's (some characters having maybe only a couple of pages to their name whereas others, like Naya and Vaughn, having numerous chapters) I most likely would have decided not to read it. I think a book should only be told between 1 and 4 POV's, more than that and reading it would be too confusing. Even though there is a large number of POV's, I found it actually to be very easy to read.
There is only one thing concerning this book that I am unhappy about - the fact that I now have to wait, I don't know how long, for the next book in this series. Although I wouldn't say this has a cliff hanger as such, you are left in limbo thinking 'what the he'll happened to them?' (if you read this book you will understand what I am talking about) so I am very eager for the next book.
November 13, 2020
2.5 stars
May 28, 2020
Naya is the vampire princess and she's expected to marry a vampire that her parents choose for her. But she knows that as soon as she's married she'll be unhappy in a loveless marriage and having kids out of duty. She's not happy about the turn her life is about to take so she goes out to a club with her human best friend.
Vaughn is out at a club with his friend Sawyer when he spots Naya and later comes to her aid when a drunk is hitting on her and doesn't want to take no for an answer.
Naya and Vaughn are instantly attracted to each other but Vaughn has a secret that Naya doesn't know about. He's not the human that Naya thinks he is, he's much more so when they spend the night together things happen and now both of their lives are going in directions neither of them ever saw coming.
There are side stories with secondary characters that I hope we'll be seeing in upcoming books like Sawyer and Naya's best friend Kenzie. Sawyer gives Kenzie a ride home after Naya leaves the club with Vaughn, he's grumpy and standoffish but Kenzie finds him drop dead attractive, not that she plans on telling him that with the bad attitude he has. But it was so obvious to me that Sawyer felt something for her because the way he was acting jealous of the guy she was dancing with at the club and the way he kept looking at her.
This is the first book in the series so it was nice getting to know a lot of the characters that will be in subsequent books. Naya's parents aren't always nice or take Naya's feelings into consideration before they make a decision about her and at times in this story that really made me mad. I can only hope that they chill the heck out in this series. I don't want to give too much away but Naya and Vaughn are such a sweet couple. You can just tell that they really love each other and belong together but there are so many things in there way.
There's a huge twist near the end of this book that totally took me by surprise, but has me wanting the next book right now! I need to know what happens next. I just love when that Happens. I can highly recommend this book, it was a lot of fun and kept me guessing.
Vaughn is out at a club with his friend Sawyer when he spots Naya and later comes to her aid when a drunk is hitting on her and doesn't want to take no for an answer.
Naya and Vaughn are instantly attracted to each other but Vaughn has a secret that Naya doesn't know about. He's not the human that Naya thinks he is, he's much more so when they spend the night together things happen and now both of their lives are going in directions neither of them ever saw coming.
There are side stories with secondary characters that I hope we'll be seeing in upcoming books like Sawyer and Naya's best friend Kenzie. Sawyer gives Kenzie a ride home after Naya leaves the club with Vaughn, he's grumpy and standoffish but Kenzie finds him drop dead attractive, not that she plans on telling him that with the bad attitude he has. But it was so obvious to me that Sawyer felt something for her because the way he was acting jealous of the guy she was dancing with at the club and the way he kept looking at her.
This is the first book in the series so it was nice getting to know a lot of the characters that will be in subsequent books. Naya's parents aren't always nice or take Naya's feelings into consideration before they make a decision about her and at times in this story that really made me mad. I can only hope that they chill the heck out in this series. I don't want to give too much away but Naya and Vaughn are such a sweet couple. You can just tell that they really love each other and belong together but there are so many things in there way.
There's a huge twist near the end of this book that totally took me by surprise, but has me wanting the next book right now! I need to know what happens next. I just love when that Happens. I can highly recommend this book, it was a lot of fun and kept me guessing.
November 13, 2020
4 stars
I read this book as a PNR BoM for the Kickers group. I almost skipped it because it seemed like everyone was hating it. I only read it because it was KU and the other option I would have had to buy.
But I am glad I read it because I liked it. I enjoyed the simplicity that is Naya and Vaughn's relationship. I like that the book is low on angst and that conflicts were minor and easily resolved. I like that the ending wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be. I liked that minor twist at the end and I want to see how the next couple fares. Oh, an I liked that the story is told from multiple povs not only the main couple, and that there are a few couples stories going on at the same time. I always enjoy this as it makes the storytelling more rounded and less one sided.
Sometimes simple is good. In this book nothing gives you stress as everyone says exactly how they feel, well everyone except for Sawyer. This was a relaxing read.
I read this book as a PNR BoM for the Kickers group. I almost skipped it because it seemed like everyone was hating it. I only read it because it was KU and the other option I would have had to buy.
But I am glad I read it because I liked it. I enjoyed the simplicity that is Naya and Vaughn's relationship. I like that the book is low on angst and that conflicts were minor and easily resolved. I like that the ending wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be. I liked that minor twist at the end and I want to see how the next couple fares. Oh, an I liked that the story is told from multiple povs not only the main couple, and that there are a few couples stories going on at the same time. I always enjoy this as it makes the storytelling more rounded and less one sided.
Sometimes simple is good. In this book nothing gives you stress as everyone says exactly how they feel, well everyone except for Sawyer. This was a relaxing read.
July 1, 2014
My Star Rating for 'Forbidden Blood' is 4 1/2 out of 5 stars! :)
My ‘Blogging Reader’s Review’ after reading ‘Forbidden Blood' by Authors R.L. Kenderson (via: Booksmoviesfandoms.wordpress.com):
*May contain a few hints of Spoilers*
Upon receiving an ARC early-copy of ‘Forbidden Blood’ by R.L. Kenderson, I was very intrigued to see how the story unfolded after having read the synopsis for it. I’ve read many vampire related novels before and was honestly hoping for a nice twist to ‘vampires’ and not the usual same-old ‘traditional vampire’ story. I’m excited to let readers know that this story is not the traditional vampire story and has many entertaining facets. For those like me, who enjoy multiple P.O.V.’s(point of views) while reading a story, you’ll like this. There are nine P.O.V.’s throughout the novel, which include: Naya, Vaughn, Arianna, Kenzie, Payton, Damien, Celeste, Dwyer and an mystery ‘Shifter’ enemy.
Princess Anaya ‘Naya’ Kensington, is not your typical royalty. She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota and is set to become Queen, once her parents step down and will lead the vampire species. She has chocolate dark brown hair, violet colored-eyes and is beautiful with unique features. Naya lives her life at night, sleeps in the day and only feeds from female family vampires when hunger comes. She’s decided to continue to follow her parent’s wishes for her but she still tries to do a few things of her very own. She volunteers at an animal shelter and when she can, she goes out with her human best friend Kenzie that she met at college.
One night, Naya decides to take a risk and go out to the new human nightclub, Club Pulse with Kenzie. Kenzie is a free spirit, the opposite of Naya’s usually reserved personality. Once there, Kenzie begins flirting, while Naya just people-watches. Quickly, the night begins to turn into something else. Naya’s keen vampire senses, can feel that someone is watching her. She can’t find her watcher but she feels him there, somewhere in the club. Naya has no idea how much she does not know about what exists in the world around her, thanks to how much her royal parents have sheltered her. But on this night, her life will be changed after a chance encounter and deciding to satisfy her need to try something different.
Vaughn Llewelyn could be described as one very hot, tall, dark haired, blue-eyed, man with a sexy defined body that would make most women melt. The only thing about Vaughn, is that he lives in a world where he must keep certain secrets about himself from others. He has never gotten close with any females beyond satisfying his sexual needs. That was the case until meeting her. One night of temptation, pleasure and forbidden desires, a bond is made. Vaughn expected it to only be a one-night-stand with someone that he knew he should’ve never had. But something about her made him want to be protective of her, pull her close and make her his. Even if it is only for one night, he wasn’t about to deny what he wanted and needed no matter. By giving in, his life will be altered beyond his wildest expectations.
To add to the entertaining storyline of ‘Forbidden Blood’, there happens to be other species called ‘Shifters’ walking around beyond the vampires and humans. But they are not only what you would suspect. They’ve all lived separately but only the leaders seem to be aware of each existing species. Since not everyone is aware of the existence of certain species’, issues occur that will change the worlds of everyone involved and those around them. To top it off, there is someone or something out there, trying to cause more mayhem while seeking their vengeance. What will Naya do with the drastic changes in her life and can she juggle her duties as future Queen? Can Vaughn share his secret with the one he feels an overwhelming need to protect and love? Who isn’t safe and who can be trusted?
This story is definitely full of twists and engaging characters. If you love a story with entertaining Alpha-males, you’ll enjoy this story. It’s very sexy and keeps you interested in finding out what will come next. I do recommend this debut novel from this new series. There is a conclusion to an important part of the story but there are questions left unanswered in preparation for the next novels in the ‘Forbidden Series.’ I will definitely be looking forward to the future novels of this series. Great debut novel series Ranae and Lara!
My Star Rating for 'Forbidden Blood' is 4 1/2 out of 5 stars! :)
Visit my Blog to see character photos of how I imagined them while reading & Memorable lines from FORBIDDEN BLOOD.
Click Here to Visit the Blog: Books,Movies,Fandoms
Check us out on Twitter & Follow Here
My ‘Blogging Reader’s Review’ after reading ‘Forbidden Blood' by Authors R.L. Kenderson (via: Booksmoviesfandoms.wordpress.com):
*May contain a few hints of Spoilers*
Upon receiving an ARC early-copy of ‘Forbidden Blood’ by R.L. Kenderson, I was very intrigued to see how the story unfolded after having read the synopsis for it. I’ve read many vampire related novels before and was honestly hoping for a nice twist to ‘vampires’ and not the usual same-old ‘traditional vampire’ story. I’m excited to let readers know that this story is not the traditional vampire story and has many entertaining facets. For those like me, who enjoy multiple P.O.V.’s(point of views) while reading a story, you’ll like this. There are nine P.O.V.’s throughout the novel, which include: Naya, Vaughn, Arianna, Kenzie, Payton, Damien, Celeste, Dwyer and an mystery ‘Shifter’ enemy.
Princess Anaya ‘Naya’ Kensington, is not your typical royalty. She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota and is set to become Queen, once her parents step down and will lead the vampire species. She has chocolate dark brown hair, violet colored-eyes and is beautiful with unique features. Naya lives her life at night, sleeps in the day and only feeds from female family vampires when hunger comes. She’s decided to continue to follow her parent’s wishes for her but she still tries to do a few things of her very own. She volunteers at an animal shelter and when she can, she goes out with her human best friend Kenzie that she met at college.
One night, Naya decides to take a risk and go out to the new human nightclub, Club Pulse with Kenzie. Kenzie is a free spirit, the opposite of Naya’s usually reserved personality. Once there, Kenzie begins flirting, while Naya just people-watches. Quickly, the night begins to turn into something else. Naya’s keen vampire senses, can feel that someone is watching her. She can’t find her watcher but she feels him there, somewhere in the club. Naya has no idea how much she does not know about what exists in the world around her, thanks to how much her royal parents have sheltered her. But on this night, her life will be changed after a chance encounter and deciding to satisfy her need to try something different.
Vaughn Llewelyn could be described as one very hot, tall, dark haired, blue-eyed, man with a sexy defined body that would make most women melt. The only thing about Vaughn, is that he lives in a world where he must keep certain secrets about himself from others. He has never gotten close with any females beyond satisfying his sexual needs. That was the case until meeting her. One night of temptation, pleasure and forbidden desires, a bond is made. Vaughn expected it to only be a one-night-stand with someone that he knew he should’ve never had. But something about her made him want to be protective of her, pull her close and make her his. Even if it is only for one night, he wasn’t about to deny what he wanted and needed no matter. By giving in, his life will be altered beyond his wildest expectations.
To add to the entertaining storyline of ‘Forbidden Blood’, there happens to be other species called ‘Shifters’ walking around beyond the vampires and humans. But they are not only what you would suspect. They’ve all lived separately but only the leaders seem to be aware of each existing species. Since not everyone is aware of the existence of certain species’, issues occur that will change the worlds of everyone involved and those around them. To top it off, there is someone or something out there, trying to cause more mayhem while seeking their vengeance. What will Naya do with the drastic changes in her life and can she juggle her duties as future Queen? Can Vaughn share his secret with the one he feels an overwhelming need to protect and love? Who isn’t safe and who can be trusted?
This story is definitely full of twists and engaging characters. If you love a story with entertaining Alpha-males, you’ll enjoy this story. It’s very sexy and keeps you interested in finding out what will come next. I do recommend this debut novel from this new series. There is a conclusion to an important part of the story but there are questions left unanswered in preparation for the next novels in the ‘Forbidden Series.’ I will definitely be looking forward to the future novels of this series. Great debut novel series Ranae and Lara!
My Star Rating for 'Forbidden Blood' is 4 1/2 out of 5 stars! :)
Visit my Blog to see character photos of how I imagined them while reading & Memorable lines from FORBIDDEN BLOOD.
Click Here to Visit the Blog: Books,Movies,Fandoms
Check us out on Twitter & Follow Here
April 9, 2020
no spoilers
This is honestly one of the worst books I have ever read.
The relationship between the main characters is virtually non existent, they jist have sex. They don't even discuss the future when they really should be, after something MASSIVE occurs, instead they simoly say 'well i like you right now'. Seriously? It feels like it was written by a horny teenager.
Their entire relationship is extremely superficial.
The others characters' relationships just feel forced and the other characters having their own narrative also feels forced. Especially Arianna and Emerson. The way they begun their relationship made me laugh from how awful it was.
I would rate this book a 0 if i could.
This is honestly one of the worst books I have ever read.
The relationship between the main characters is virtually non existent, they jist have sex. They don't even discuss the future when they really should be, after something MASSIVE occurs, instead they simoly say 'well i like you right now'. Seriously? It feels like it was written by a horny teenager.
Their entire relationship is extremely superficial.
The others characters' relationships just feel forced and the other characters having their own narrative also feels forced. Especially Arianna and Emerson. The way they begun their relationship made me laugh from how awful it was.
I would rate this book a 0 if i could.
June 21, 2014
My star rating is: 4 1/2 out of 5 stars. :)
Very interesting story, with some great twists.
My rating is based on an enjoyable storyline,
wonderful characters, tons of P.O.V.'s(point of views),
and just a fantastic flow with everything.
It's not your traditional and typical vampire story,
which I truly enjoyed.
I also like everything about the 'other' kind of
'people' that lived in this story's world, besides
the vampires and humans. ;)
Looking forward to the next novels of this
entertaining series.
Read My Full-Review at:
BooksMoviesFandoms.wordpress.com
Very interesting story, with some great twists.
My rating is based on an enjoyable storyline,
wonderful characters, tons of P.O.V.'s(point of views),
and just a fantastic flow with everything.
It's not your traditional and typical vampire story,
which I truly enjoyed.
I also like everything about the 'other' kind of
'people' that lived in this story's world, besides
the vampires and humans. ;)
Looking forward to the next novels of this
entertaining series.
Read My Full-Review at:
BooksMoviesFandoms.wordpress.com
Want to read
August 13, 2017
November 24, 2013
I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I would rate this book a 4.25 if I could! I loved the story. There isn't one character that I didn't like. The story was so well thought and planned...I wasn't left with a question unanswered. The main characters had a great storyline...Vaughn and Naya were such an amazing couple. They had an effortless relationship and he was such a stand up, good guy. However, the secondary characters were my favorite. Kenzie and Sawyer....eeeeekkkk!! I kept wanting to turn the page to read more of them. I love the brooding male that is possessive, but doesn't think he is. That is grumpy and commanding, but doesn't think he is. :) Poor Kenzie...probably wanted to beat him with a bat. I am smiling right now thinking about them. It is one of those stories where you are just waiting for that big moment to happen...the "finally this is happening" moment!!!
I wanted to click next page to see where the story would go...to take the journey with the characters, but at the same time, I didn't. I didn't want it to end!!! It was an enjoyable read! Definitely a repeat offender...I could and would read it again. I can't wait for book 2.
I would rate this book a 4.25 if I could! I loved the story. There isn't one character that I didn't like. The story was so well thought and planned...I wasn't left with a question unanswered. The main characters had a great storyline...Vaughn and Naya were such an amazing couple. They had an effortless relationship and he was such a stand up, good guy. However, the secondary characters were my favorite. Kenzie and Sawyer....eeeeekkkk!! I kept wanting to turn the page to read more of them. I love the brooding male that is possessive, but doesn't think he is. That is grumpy and commanding, but doesn't think he is. :) Poor Kenzie...probably wanted to beat him with a bat. I am smiling right now thinking about them. It is one of those stories where you are just waiting for that big moment to happen...the "finally this is happening" moment!!!
I wanted to click next page to see where the story would go...to take the journey with the characters, but at the same time, I didn't. I didn't want it to end!!! It was an enjoyable read! Definitely a repeat offender...I could and would read it again. I can't wait for book 2.
February 24, 2020
Eh. Too many characters with their own points of view. I've been in a reading slump and this just didn't pull me out.
August 10, 2017
A world where forbidden blood is tasted and a bond is formed. This book is woven together in a world full of shapeshifters and vampires, and plenty of steamy romance to keep readers fully engaged for hours at a time. If you love the paranormal romance genre I encourage you to give these books a go.
This book was one of those books that you dread finishing because the book is too good to end, and you can't help but want more.
Naya falls hard in love with someone who she thought was human, but finds out she was mistaken when she learns he is a shifter. One night of passion changes her world forever, and from what she is expected as a princess it might just become a little complicated for her family. Despite the fact that it could be complicated Naya is in love, and is pretty sure it is with the right person.
With shifters and vampires not fond of eachother Naya has plenty of obstacles but she is determined to make it all work. Naya is a strong female lead and one that I was able to connect with on a huge level. I felt like I could easily be her best friend. Vaughn himself is also a great character and a man every woman could only hope to have.
I would recommend this book to readers 18 and up due to explicit sexual scenes.
This book was one of those books that you dread finishing because the book is too good to end, and you can't help but want more.
Naya falls hard in love with someone who she thought was human, but finds out she was mistaken when she learns he is a shifter. One night of passion changes her world forever, and from what she is expected as a princess it might just become a little complicated for her family. Despite the fact that it could be complicated Naya is in love, and is pretty sure it is with the right person.
With shifters and vampires not fond of eachother Naya has plenty of obstacles but she is determined to make it all work. Naya is a strong female lead and one that I was able to connect with on a huge level. I felt like I could easily be her best friend. Vaughn himself is also a great character and a man every woman could only hope to have.
I would recommend this book to readers 18 and up due to explicit sexual scenes.
July 22, 2022
Loved this book! So good!
June 12, 2014
I was given an ARC by the writers of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Anaya, princess and next in line to be Queen of the Vampire society, has lead her life pleasing everyone else but herself. She always did what she was told instead of what she wanted to do. This is until she went to a new night club on the "wrong side of the tracks" where she meets Vaughn - a mysterious man she can't stay away from. They instantly have an attraction to each other neither has felt before. Will their one-night stand lead to Anaya going against everything she knows and has been taught? Or will it stay just that - a one night stand? Will their secret lives catch up to them?
This book grabbed my attention right from the get-go. I loved the alternative story line for a vampires. It wasn't your typical "Hollywood" vampire story, and it was explained very well. The characters felt well thought out as well. They all stood out from each other, which was refreshing. I instantly wanted to know what would happen between Naya and Vaughn. Would they be able to stay away from each other and go on with their lives? Would they be forced out of their respective family's to live on their own? The more I read, the more I fell in love with their story. I loved Vaughn's possessiveness of Naya yet he would let her do her own thing and make her own decisions, making him so much more desirable. I also loved Naya's spunk - her not taking any BS anymore attitude as the book went on.
I also loved the secondary characters in the book - especially Sawyer and Kenzie. I can't wait to see what comes of them. The broodiness of Sawyer makes you want to smack him but take hime to your room to ravish simultaneously. Kenzie's personality makes you fall in love with her instantly. Especially they way she responds to Sawyer's attitude.
With all the ups, comes some downs though. At times, I felt bombarded with characters. I would have to reread a section to fully grasp who was doing what or who was where. I found myself enjoying the book more when it was only a few characters at one time, or when there was more of a lead in to multiple characters being involved.
Naya and Vaughn's relationship seemed a bit rushed at times. How fast they fell in love didn't sit right with me for some reason. It was almost like they were too perfect for each other. I'm not sure what I was fully expecting from them, just that I would have liked to see it take a little more time and more to happen between them - maybe a fight or two - before they were living "happily ever after."
The last "down" I have for the book is the ending. It seemed to just end. I kept trying to turn to the next page, or thinking I missed a page somewhere. I guess you could say I was hoping for more of a gradual ending; instead, I was left with some questions about the last "incident" with Kenzie and Sawyer - more information on that could be coming in future books so I will have to be patient - and a little surprised when I found myself reading about the twins, Naya, and Vaughn living their "happily ever after."
Over all though, I loved this book (It took roughly 24 hours to read it if you don't count the "breaks" for work and household chores, which is saying something for me). This may even be a repeater for me down the road. I can't wait to see what comes next in the series!
Anaya, princess and next in line to be Queen of the Vampire society, has lead her life pleasing everyone else but herself. She always did what she was told instead of what she wanted to do. This is until she went to a new night club on the "wrong side of the tracks" where she meets Vaughn - a mysterious man she can't stay away from. They instantly have an attraction to each other neither has felt before. Will their one-night stand lead to Anaya going against everything she knows and has been taught? Or will it stay just that - a one night stand? Will their secret lives catch up to them?
This book grabbed my attention right from the get-go. I loved the alternative story line for a vampires. It wasn't your typical "Hollywood" vampire story, and it was explained very well. The characters felt well thought out as well. They all stood out from each other, which was refreshing. I instantly wanted to know what would happen between Naya and Vaughn. Would they be able to stay away from each other and go on with their lives? Would they be forced out of their respective family's to live on their own? The more I read, the more I fell in love with their story. I loved Vaughn's possessiveness of Naya yet he would let her do her own thing and make her own decisions, making him so much more desirable. I also loved Naya's spunk - her not taking any BS anymore attitude as the book went on.
I also loved the secondary characters in the book - especially Sawyer and Kenzie. I can't wait to see what comes of them. The broodiness of Sawyer makes you want to smack him but take hime to your room to ravish simultaneously. Kenzie's personality makes you fall in love with her instantly. Especially they way she responds to Sawyer's attitude.
With all the ups, comes some downs though. At times, I felt bombarded with characters. I would have to reread a section to fully grasp who was doing what or who was where. I found myself enjoying the book more when it was only a few characters at one time, or when there was more of a lead in to multiple characters being involved.
Naya and Vaughn's relationship seemed a bit rushed at times. How fast they fell in love didn't sit right with me for some reason. It was almost like they were too perfect for each other. I'm not sure what I was fully expecting from them, just that I would have liked to see it take a little more time and more to happen between them - maybe a fight or two - before they were living "happily ever after."
The last "down" I have for the book is the ending. It seemed to just end. I kept trying to turn to the next page, or thinking I missed a page somewhere. I guess you could say I was hoping for more of a gradual ending; instead, I was left with some questions about the last "incident" with Kenzie and Sawyer - more information on that could be coming in future books so I will have to be patient - and a little surprised when I found myself reading about the twins, Naya, and Vaughn living their "happily ever after."
Over all though, I loved this book (It took roughly 24 hours to read it if you don't count the "breaks" for work and household chores, which is saying something for me). This may even be a repeater for me down the road. I can't wait to see what comes next in the series!
March 13, 2015
http://badbirdreads.com/review-forbid...
At A Glance
Both interesting and boring.
The Good
Let’s bullet point it out!
– I loved the supernatural creatures and how they felt different from the ones in other books I have read. They were somewhat normal people (also leaders to their people) who just happen to be vampires or shapeshifters. It was a nice change-up.
– I liked all the characters. Some were funny, some kind, some aggressive, some straight up mean. No cookie-cutter characterization, each one had a different personality.
– Naya and Vaughn had a cute and passionate relationship. It was a little fast, but I didn’t mind. They had ups and downs but they let crazy love guide them. Naya is sweet, gentle, and curious. Vaughn is strong, forward, and exciting. They meshed together well.
Even though the ending was annoying in some ways, it still made me want to continue this series. Crazy, right?
The Bad
– There were too many POVs for a paranormal romance. I wanted to focus on the couple.
– There was a lot of down time for the characters, which had me a bit bored. I kept waiting for something big to happen.
– The book ended right when the story was getting interesting. There was only action near the end and no big drama until the end. Made the story feel unfinished.
The Snuggly
– Hot sex! Yeah, baby, yeah!
Final Thoughts
I probably won’t continue this series but I still enjoyed the story overall. Happy I gave it a try. Somewhat recommended.
Quotes
He looked her up and down, appreciating her little black dress and the curves it revealed, not bothering to hide his desire. He grunted. “Damn, I can’t wait to get inside.”
She ogled his mouth, her eyes going half-mast, as her tongue darted out in an unconscious response. “The apartment?” she asked dazedly.
“No.” He shook his head. “You.”
At A Glance
Both interesting and boring.
The Good
Let’s bullet point it out!
– I loved the supernatural creatures and how they felt different from the ones in other books I have read. They were somewhat normal people (also leaders to their people) who just happen to be vampires or shapeshifters. It was a nice change-up.
– I liked all the characters. Some were funny, some kind, some aggressive, some straight up mean. No cookie-cutter characterization, each one had a different personality.
– Naya and Vaughn had a cute and passionate relationship. It was a little fast, but I didn’t mind. They had ups and downs but they let crazy love guide them. Naya is sweet, gentle, and curious. Vaughn is strong, forward, and exciting. They meshed together well.
Even though the ending was annoying in some ways, it still made me want to continue this series. Crazy, right?
The Bad
– There were too many POVs for a paranormal romance. I wanted to focus on the couple.
– There was a lot of down time for the characters, which had me a bit bored. I kept waiting for something big to happen.
– The book ended right when the story was getting interesting. There was only action near the end and no big drama until the end. Made the story feel unfinished.
The Snuggly
– Hot sex! Yeah, baby, yeah!
Final Thoughts
I probably won’t continue this series but I still enjoyed the story overall. Happy I gave it a try. Somewhat recommended.
Quotes
He looked her up and down, appreciating her little black dress and the curves it revealed, not bothering to hide his desire. He grunted. “Damn, I can’t wait to get inside.”
She ogled his mouth, her eyes going half-mast, as her tongue darted out in an unconscious response. “The apartment?” she asked dazedly.
“No.” He shook his head. “You.”
June 30, 2014
Favorite Lines “Don’t challenge me, Kenzie. I always win.”
“You don’t always have to be perfect, you know? You are entitled to have bad days just like everyone else”
“Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to mess with a sleeping cat?”
“She was considering swearing off men completely. Women were pretty. Maybe she would try being a lesbian.”
“For being my mate, for giving me the most precious gifts, and for making me the happiest female in the world.”
Oh yes a Princess for the Vampire race and a next in line Alpha is that not a recipe for HOTNESS!?
Naya feels smothered by her parents, her race, and her life. So she decides to go the club with her best friend. She wants to let loose and feel free! She is rescued by the sexiest man she's ever seen. Vaughn noticed her the second she walked in the club. He stalked her through the whole club and when a drunk hits on her he rushes to her rescue.
The have an amazing night and Naya is suppose to go back to her life. She really is!
Vaughn can't stop thinking about Naya and Naya is heartbroken that she will have to let Vaughn go.
Then the unexpected happens and they get there chance but, will a enemy from the past destroy it? You really must read it to find out!
Great writing, yummy scenes, action packed, and leaves you wanting to know more of this world! I'm looking forward to what the author comes up with next!
I was given this book by author in exchange for an honest review
FIVE FORBIDDEN FAIRIES
“You don’t always have to be perfect, you know? You are entitled to have bad days just like everyone else”
“Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to mess with a sleeping cat?”
“She was considering swearing off men completely. Women were pretty. Maybe she would try being a lesbian.”
“For being my mate, for giving me the most precious gifts, and for making me the happiest female in the world.”
Oh yes a Princess for the Vampire race and a next in line Alpha is that not a recipe for HOTNESS!?
Naya feels smothered by her parents, her race, and her life. So she decides to go the club with her best friend. She wants to let loose and feel free! She is rescued by the sexiest man she's ever seen. Vaughn noticed her the second she walked in the club. He stalked her through the whole club and when a drunk hits on her he rushes to her rescue.
The have an amazing night and Naya is suppose to go back to her life. She really is!
Vaughn can't stop thinking about Naya and Naya is heartbroken that she will have to let Vaughn go.
Then the unexpected happens and they get there chance but, will a enemy from the past destroy it? You really must read it to find out!
Great writing, yummy scenes, action packed, and leaves you wanting to know more of this world! I'm looking forward to what the author comes up with next!
I was given this book by author in exchange for an honest review
FIVE FORBIDDEN FAIRIES
April 18, 2018
Naya (Anaya) and Vaughn ridiculously meet , without their supernatural senses being alert enough or without each one being sharp enough to sense that the other is supernatural too.
[Rolls eyes] Tell me about it.
In any cute case of insta-love, insta-mate happens, among other things...
Being together means that species who have lived separate from each other must find away to accept a somewhat royal union that would bridge them together, and it also means certain conspirators' plans have to be amended. Of course, while facing family and community discord, plus unknowingly facing adversaries, Naya and Vaughn still have to navigate a growing relationship that is both important to them and bigger than them.
Vaughn sometimes seems to take for granted that everything will fall into place, and Naya, more than once, jumps into paranoia about whether what they have is real and solid. Yet still, they come together strongly, a lot due to an unrelenting Vaughn.
Some of the plot seemed trivial or not given enough substance, and the ending seems abrupt and cut off, as if assuming you just have to read on to the next installment (though a small epilogue is given). It could have been developed more.
But it was a good, quick PNR.
[Rolls eyes] Tell me about it.
In any cute case of insta-love, insta-mate happens, among other things...
Being together means that species who have lived separate from each other must find away to accept a somewhat royal union that would bridge them together, and it also means certain conspirators' plans have to be amended. Of course, while facing family and community discord, plus unknowingly facing adversaries, Naya and Vaughn still have to navigate a growing relationship that is both important to them and bigger than them.
Vaughn sometimes seems to take for granted that everything will fall into place, and Naya, more than once, jumps into paranoia about whether what they have is real and solid. Yet still, they come together strongly, a lot due to an unrelenting Vaughn.
Some of the plot seemed trivial or not given enough substance, and the ending seems abrupt and cut off, as if assuming you just have to read on to the next installment (though a small epilogue is given). It could have been developed more.
But it was a good, quick PNR.
September 2, 2014
Suffice to say I loved this book, and already cannot wait for the second in this series to come out. While I am an avid reader I have to say I am very cautious about trying out new authors. But when something is recommended to me a lot of times out of respect for the recommendation I will read the book. And this one is a gem.
The characters pull you in and Vaughan, to be frank, is hot. Definate book boyfriend material.
The couple are not as fraught with problems of being together I think, they are more of miscommunication and reading between the lines and ineviatably reading them wrong. It was quiet refreshing from this book to be honest. Usually there is a big problem a big split and then the happy ever after. While there is a split it is not as insurmountable as they think and it makes them rely on each other more than anything else.
If you are looking for a book that makes you want to smile and laugh in places and want to start a new author or series, I couldn't give this a higher recommendation. As a reader with almost three thousand books in my collection this gets more than a thumbs up.
The characters pull you in and Vaughan, to be frank, is hot. Definate book boyfriend material.
The couple are not as fraught with problems of being together I think, they are more of miscommunication and reading between the lines and ineviatably reading them wrong. It was quiet refreshing from this book to be honest. Usually there is a big problem a big split and then the happy ever after. While there is a split it is not as insurmountable as they think and it makes them rely on each other more than anything else.
If you are looking for a book that makes you want to smile and laugh in places and want to start a new author or series, I couldn't give this a higher recommendation. As a reader with almost three thousand books in my collection this gets more than a thumbs up.
June 30, 2014
Wonderfully different - refreshingly so. I was thrilled with this book. Absolutely loved it! Vaughan and Naya were great together. I was very absorbed by their story. Only one issue for me, but not enough to make a stink over. My issue was the end of the chapters to the epilogue timing was 4 months apart. I was enjoying this too much to not know what happened in that time. However, the reason I said it wasn't enough to make a stink over is that I see we get Damien and Payton's story next and then it is followed by Kenzie and Sawyer together in their own book. Yep, can't wait, as I'll be reading those for certain. I know my blanks will be filled in with those two stories. Now, I just have to be patient,...oh boy, make that I have two issues...
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
October 5, 2019
Vampires and Shifters 🔥🔥🔥
I don’t know where to start. This is my first book from this author. I really like sexy vampire and shifters romance stories.
Princess Anaya is not your typical vampire, she has a human best friend, Kenzie. She is allowed to hangout with her and she meets a gorgeous guy at the club her and Kenzie go to.
Vaughn is very big, muscular and handsome! One thing leads to another, and even if was a night stand, they find themselves attracted to each other.
This storyline is packed with great characters and a captivating storyline!
I love this Author and I will definitely continue reading this series. So much action, surprises and smoking hot love scenes and a beautiful happily ever after ❤️
I don’t know where to start. This is my first book from this author. I really like sexy vampire and shifters romance stories.
Princess Anaya is not your typical vampire, she has a human best friend, Kenzie. She is allowed to hangout with her and she meets a gorgeous guy at the club her and Kenzie go to.
Vaughn is very big, muscular and handsome! One thing leads to another, and even if was a night stand, they find themselves attracted to each other.
This storyline is packed with great characters and a captivating storyline!
I love this Author and I will definitely continue reading this series. So much action, surprises and smoking hot love scenes and a beautiful happily ever after ❤️
June 24, 2014
This is a very intriguing and not your typical vampire read. I absolutely loved it! The story and characters were very well written. It had a wonderful flow throughout. The only downfalls I noticed was; I felt as if the relationship was a bit rushed and I was left with some unanswered questions in which, I'm hoping will be answered in future books. And of course the fact that now I have to wait for book 2!! Overall, there is enough details in the story that I feel satisfied enough to rate this book a 5 star! This is a book that NEEDS to be on your TBR!
** I was given an ARC of Forbidden Blood in exchange for an honest review. **
** I was given an ARC of Forbidden Blood in exchange for an honest review. **
August 3, 2014
Before I start, let me tell you that the term "paranormal romance" totally turns me off. That being said, I absolutely loved this book!! Naya and Vaughn are such likable characters. The book was just an all around fun read! I would, and most likely will , read it again and I, most definitely, will be waiting anxiously for book 2 to come out!
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