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Dark Ones #3 - Dark Ones 3
Sex, Lies and Vampires
an alternate cover edition can be found here
As far as she can tell, Nell Harris is either going insane or she is in love. Nell thought she had been summoned to Prague to work on an inscription in a rare fourteenth-century breastplate. Instead, she is immersed in the world of the Moravian Dark Ones (think vampires) when she is swept up in the search for a boy held captive by the demon lord Asmodeus. Although Nell would like nothing better than to use her powers as a "Charmer" to help find the missing boy, the last time she dabbled in magic the consequences were dire. Then Nell meets Adrian Tomas. Bound to serve Asmodeus and forced to betray his fellow Dark Ones, Adrian desperately needs Nell to charm away his curse. One look into Adrian's haunted eyes, and Nell discovers she will do just about anything to save the soul of her new beloved.
As far as she can tell, Nell Harris is either going insane or she is in love. Nell thought she had been summoned to Prague to work on an inscription in a rare fourteenth-century breastplate. Instead, she is immersed in the world of the Moravian Dark Ones (think vampires) when she is swept up in the search for a boy held captive by the demon lord Asmodeus. Although Nell would like nothing better than to use her powers as a "Charmer" to help find the missing boy, the last time she dabbled in magic the consequences were dire. Then Nell meets Adrian Tomas. Bound to serve Asmodeus and forced to betray his fellow Dark Ones, Adrian desperately needs Nell to charm away his curse. One look into Adrian's haunted eyes, and Nell discovers she will do just about anything to save the soul of her new beloved.
342 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 27, 2005
181 people are currently reading
2997 people want to read
About the author
Katie MacAlister
122 books5,981 followersFor as long as she can remember, Katie MacAlister has loved reading. Growing up in a family where a weekly visit to the library was a given, Katie spent much of her time with her nose buried in a book. Despite her love for novels, she didn't think of writing them until she was contracted to write a non-fiction book about software. Since her editor refused to allow her to include either witty dialogue or love scenes in the software book, Katie swiftly resolved to switch to fiction, where she could indulge in world building, tormenting characters, and falling madly in love with all her heroes.
Two years after she started writing novels, Katie sold her first romance, Noble Intentions. More than thirty books followed during the years after Noble's publication. Her novels have been translated into numerous languages, been recorded as audiobooks, received several awards, and placed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. She also writes for the young adult audience as Katie Maxwell, and for the mystery world as Kate Marsh.
Katie lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and dogs, and can often be found lurking around online.
Two years after she started writing novels, Katie sold her first romance, Noble Intentions. More than thirty books followed during the years after Noble's publication. Her novels have been translated into numerous languages, been recorded as audiobooks, received several awards, and placed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. She also writes for the young adult audience as Katie Maxwell, and for the mystery world as Kate Marsh.
Katie lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and dogs, and can often be found lurking around online.
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January 11, 2022
"Küsst du noch oder beißt du schon?" ist der 3. Band der "Dark Ones" Reihe von Autorin Katie MacAlister.
Für mich ist das leider einer der schwächsten Teile der Reihe. Die Kosenamen, die sich die Charaktere geben mögen lustig gemeint sein, leider trifft dieser "Humor" nicht ganz meinen Geschmack. Etwas weniger "Hasi" hätte wirklich nicht geschadet. Generell mag ich den Schreibstil der Autorin und auch die spritzigen Dialoge. Zu viel des Guten muss es aber auch nicht sein.
Die Geschichte ist schon spannend, teilweise kann ich aber auch nicht alles hundertprozentig nachvollziehen. Ganz glaubwürdig wirkt die Story dieses Mal nicht. Das ist aber nicht weiter schlimm. Ich hatte viel Spaß mit diesem Hörbuch, es hat mich richtig gut unterhalten. Im Großen und Ganzen hat sich ein Re-read gelohnt. Deswegen vergebe ich trotz Kritik 3 Sterne.
Hier folgen noch einige Infos zum Hörbuch:
10 Std. und 6 Min. / Ungekürzte Ausgabe
Sprecherin: Vera Teltz
Der Sprecherin würde ich 5 Sterne geben.
Verlag: Audible Studios
Für mich ist das leider einer der schwächsten Teile der Reihe. Die Kosenamen, die sich die Charaktere geben mögen lustig gemeint sein, leider trifft dieser "Humor" nicht ganz meinen Geschmack. Etwas weniger "Hasi" hätte wirklich nicht geschadet. Generell mag ich den Schreibstil der Autorin und auch die spritzigen Dialoge. Zu viel des Guten muss es aber auch nicht sein.
Die Geschichte ist schon spannend, teilweise kann ich aber auch nicht alles hundertprozentig nachvollziehen. Ganz glaubwürdig wirkt die Story dieses Mal nicht. Das ist aber nicht weiter schlimm. Ich hatte viel Spaß mit diesem Hörbuch, es hat mich richtig gut unterhalten. Im Großen und Ganzen hat sich ein Re-read gelohnt. Deswegen vergebe ich trotz Kritik 3 Sterne.
Hier folgen noch einige Infos zum Hörbuch:
10 Std. und 6 Min. / Ungekürzte Ausgabe
Sprecherin: Vera Teltz
Der Sprecherin würde ich 5 Sterne geben.
Verlag: Audible Studios
April 3, 2008
This was a fairly good read, though not quite as good as the previous book in the series,
Sex and the Single Vampire
. (This is the third book in the series and
A Girl's Guide to Vampires
the first.)
Thank Goddess we no longer see Joy and Roxy, main characters from the first book who reminded me of a couple of whiny teenagers, in this one. We do have Ally and Christian and a few other characters from the second book though and I was glad to see them return in this one.
In this installment, Nell Harris, a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Washington, is also a Charmer who can create and disarm magical charms and curses, a practice she gave up 10 years ago when she accidently killed her best friend while trying to disarm a curse. She's been asked to the Czech Republic by Melissande, a Dark One (sorta like a Vampire), on the premise of translating an inscription on a fourteenth-century breastplate. The real reason behind Melissande's asking Nell to come though is because she's aware of her background as a Charmer. Melissande wants Nell to use her Charming skills to help find her 10-year-old nephew Damian who's been taken by the demon lord Asmodeus.
Immediately, Nell runs into "The Betrayer", Melissande's brother Adrian, who has been bound to Asmodeus, while searching for clues to Asmodeus's whereabouts in Christian's castle. Adrian whisks Nell off against her will when he realizes what she can do for him. Despite Adrian's curse binding him to the demon lord by his father when he was only 2 years old, Nell immediately sees the good in him and they soon realize that Nell is Adrian's Beloved. (A Beloved is a Dark One's "other half" who is able to bring light into his soul, etc.)
Melissande, Christian, and the other Dark Ones including Melissande's other brother Saer are all against Adrian and would prefer to just do away with him. But Adrian also wants to save Damian as well as have Nell remove his curse. So Nell joins forces with Adrian and while working to get the information they need to free Damian, they must also avoid the other Dark Ones trying to slow them down.
Thoughout the story, Nell's character reminded me a little too much of Joy or Roxy from A Girl's Guide to Vampires—her comments and American colloquialisms were meant to be funny, but I found them annoying more often than not. Plus, she's a bit too mouthy for her own good and doesn't think how her actions will affect what she's trying to accomplish. Fortunately, there were a number of other funny parts in the story, the mummies for instance, which had me cracking up!
Thank Goddess we no longer see Joy and Roxy, main characters from the first book who reminded me of a couple of whiny teenagers, in this one. We do have Ally and Christian and a few other characters from the second book though and I was glad to see them return in this one.
In this installment, Nell Harris, a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Washington, is also a Charmer who can create and disarm magical charms and curses, a practice she gave up 10 years ago when she accidently killed her best friend while trying to disarm a curse. She's been asked to the Czech Republic by Melissande, a Dark One (sorta like a Vampire), on the premise of translating an inscription on a fourteenth-century breastplate. The real reason behind Melissande's asking Nell to come though is because she's aware of her background as a Charmer. Melissande wants Nell to use her Charming skills to help find her 10-year-old nephew Damian who's been taken by the demon lord Asmodeus.
Immediately, Nell runs into "The Betrayer", Melissande's brother Adrian, who has been bound to Asmodeus, while searching for clues to Asmodeus's whereabouts in Christian's castle. Adrian whisks Nell off against her will when he realizes what she can do for him. Despite Adrian's curse binding him to the demon lord by his father when he was only 2 years old, Nell immediately sees the good in him and they soon realize that Nell is Adrian's Beloved. (A Beloved is a Dark One's "other half" who is able to bring light into his soul, etc.)
Melissande, Christian, and the other Dark Ones including Melissande's other brother Saer are all against Adrian and would prefer to just do away with him. But Adrian also wants to save Damian as well as have Nell remove his curse. So Nell joins forces with Adrian and while working to get the information they need to free Damian, they must also avoid the other Dark Ones trying to slow them down.
Thoughout the story, Nell's character reminded me a little too much of Joy or Roxy from A Girl's Guide to Vampires—her comments and American colloquialisms were meant to be funny, but I found them annoying more often than not. Plus, she's a bit too mouthy for her own good and doesn't think how her actions will affect what she's trying to accomplish. Fortunately, there were a number of other funny parts in the story, the mummies for instance, which had me cracking up!
September 15, 2012
It's an enjoyable read. You know what you're going to get with Katie MacAlister and it doesn't disappoint if that's what you are looking for.
One thing I will say is that if you do read a lot of these books in one go the heroines kind of blur around the edges and you forget who is who. But as an easy and quick read they are great pick me up pieces of fluff and no worse for that.
One thing I will say is that if you do read a lot of these books in one go the heroines kind of blur around the edges and you forget who is who. But as an easy and quick read they are great pick me up pieces of fluff and no worse for that.
December 14, 2020
Guter dritter Teil.
February 20, 2021
4 stars - B, C, D & E.
November 1, 2024
Da geht meine Zug-Lektüre, die mich über Woche tapfer durch jede Verspätung unterhalten hat :*(
April 29, 2018
Content Warning: sex described with more euphemism than descriptive diction, falling in love with the captor, sex in inappropriate places, and tons of lying (if that sort of thing bothers you like it does me).
Oh, Katie. Can I call you Katie? Probably not. Katie MacAlister’s 3rd book in the Dark Ones series is largely a rehash of what was contained in the 2nd book. Well, except the female protagonist has even less personality. Nell Harris is a medieval history professor in the United States. When a woman in Prague calls with the promise of a 14th century artifact, Nell hurries over. Except the woman, Melissande, tricked Nell. Somehow, Melissande knows that one time her in life Nell tried to charm a curse, so, naturally, Nell is the right person to help Melissande track down her nephew, who is missing. Right? Right.
Melissande is a “dark one,” which is Katie MacAlister’s version of a vampire. They don’t do sun, and they have to drink blood, but other than that, these dark ones are described very, very much like humans. They brush their teeth, for goodness sake. Where’s the fun in that? Some dark ones are made, others are born, but for some reason they all stop aging right around the time they hit smoking hotness.
Melissande and Nell go to the castle of Christian Dante, the lead male in book 2 and a medium-sized character in the 1st book. Nell has no idea who Christian is, but readers will get antsy knowing that we’re supposed to love Christian and who is this Melissande trickster!? In the castle, Nell is abducted by our male protagonist for book 3, Adrian, a dark one who kidnaps other dark ones and sends them to a demon god to be tortured and killed. She falls in love with him almost immediately . . . because she’s scared of the dark. That’s all the plot you really need to know, dear reader.
Although we know Nell is a college professor, she has the personality of a 15-year-old high school girl. Her life in the United States is completely ignored, meaning her PhD smarts aren’t even useful to the dark ones. Odd, because they were largely born during the period that Nell studies. She likes to irritate people. Like, purposefully. She calls all dark ones “vamps,” a word that twanged a murder synapse in my brain each time. She — just like the leading lady in book 2! — tries to make up pet names for her dark one lover. And not good ones, friends! Terms like “lambikins.” Every time, Adrian rages that he is the powerful undead, feared because he betrays his own kind, which leads Nell to keep trying out new names. It was an aggravating shtick.
The way Nell shows her affection is repetitive, too, and I would argue babyish. How many times did I need to read that she was “…nuzzling the sweet spot behind his ear.” Friends, go test out your significant other. Does he/she have a “sweet spot” located behind the ear? Is it just hair gel residue and ear funk? I thought so.
She’s also constantly “kissing the tip of his nose.” Have you ever kissed someone’s nostrils? How about the side of the nose, where skin oil collects? No? So the description — tip — is redundant, but I also ask: are such chaste kisses really the vibe readers want in what’s supposed to be a sexy romance novel? This book does get super intimate. At one point, Adrian licks under Nell’s breast and she professes, “Oh, god, this must be illegal!” Errrr . . . in what country? I’m back to the image of the 15-year-old girl. Not a good one. The only time Nell sounds like an adult woman is when she and Adrian walk into a brothel for ghosts. One room has been enchanted to make ghosts feel sexy and want to strip off their clothes (ghosts have clothes, I learned), and Nell actually says, “I want you inside me.” I was impressed! It’s a short-lived scene, though.
Nell never grows up, though. And her inability to mature is compounded by the fact that the leading lady in Book 2 is almost exactly like her. This nondescript woman Katie MacAlister keeps conjuring is the Peter Pan of romance. After another dark one tries to kill her beloved Adrian, Nell calls the thwarted murderer a “poop.” There you have it. A poop. I’ll say no more.
This review was originally published at Grab the Lapels.
Oh, Katie. Can I call you Katie? Probably not. Katie MacAlister’s 3rd book in the Dark Ones series is largely a rehash of what was contained in the 2nd book. Well, except the female protagonist has even less personality. Nell Harris is a medieval history professor in the United States. When a woman in Prague calls with the promise of a 14th century artifact, Nell hurries over. Except the woman, Melissande, tricked Nell. Somehow, Melissande knows that one time her in life Nell tried to charm a curse, so, naturally, Nell is the right person to help Melissande track down her nephew, who is missing. Right? Right.
Melissande is a “dark one,” which is Katie MacAlister’s version of a vampire. They don’t do sun, and they have to drink blood, but other than that, these dark ones are described very, very much like humans. They brush their teeth, for goodness sake. Where’s the fun in that? Some dark ones are made, others are born, but for some reason they all stop aging right around the time they hit smoking hotness.
Melissande and Nell go to the castle of Christian Dante, the lead male in book 2 and a medium-sized character in the 1st book. Nell has no idea who Christian is, but readers will get antsy knowing that we’re supposed to love Christian and who is this Melissande trickster!? In the castle, Nell is abducted by our male protagonist for book 3, Adrian, a dark one who kidnaps other dark ones and sends them to a demon god to be tortured and killed. She falls in love with him almost immediately . . . because she’s scared of the dark. That’s all the plot you really need to know, dear reader.
Although we know Nell is a college professor, she has the personality of a 15-year-old high school girl. Her life in the United States is completely ignored, meaning her PhD smarts aren’t even useful to the dark ones. Odd, because they were largely born during the period that Nell studies. She likes to irritate people. Like, purposefully. She calls all dark ones “vamps,” a word that twanged a murder synapse in my brain each time. She — just like the leading lady in book 2! — tries to make up pet names for her dark one lover. And not good ones, friends! Terms like “lambikins.” Every time, Adrian rages that he is the powerful undead, feared because he betrays his own kind, which leads Nell to keep trying out new names. It was an aggravating shtick.
The way Nell shows her affection is repetitive, too, and I would argue babyish. How many times did I need to read that she was “…nuzzling the sweet spot behind his ear.” Friends, go test out your significant other. Does he/she have a “sweet spot” located behind the ear? Is it just hair gel residue and ear funk? I thought so.
She’s also constantly “kissing the tip of his nose.” Have you ever kissed someone’s nostrils? How about the side of the nose, where skin oil collects? No? So the description — tip — is redundant, but I also ask: are such chaste kisses really the vibe readers want in what’s supposed to be a sexy romance novel? This book does get super intimate. At one point, Adrian licks under Nell’s breast and she professes, “Oh, god, this must be illegal!” Errrr . . . in what country? I’m back to the image of the 15-year-old girl. Not a good one. The only time Nell sounds like an adult woman is when she and Adrian walk into a brothel for ghosts. One room has been enchanted to make ghosts feel sexy and want to strip off their clothes (ghosts have clothes, I learned), and Nell actually says, “I want you inside me.” I was impressed! It’s a short-lived scene, though.
Nell never grows up, though. And her inability to mature is compounded by the fact that the leading lady in Book 2 is almost exactly like her. This nondescript woman Katie MacAlister keeps conjuring is the Peter Pan of romance. After another dark one tries to kill her beloved Adrian, Nell calls the thwarted murderer a “poop.” There you have it. A poop. I’ll say no more.
This review was originally published at Grab the Lapels.
December 5, 2012
Nell is just a reincarnation of Allie from the previous book. She has a simialr handicap but mummies to replace the ghosts.
There are a few genuinely funny moments; Adrian defending his grim reputation and getting shot down, the mummies, Damien. Often though it tries too hard, I found the 'Oh look at the cute American' theme highly irratating.
For a supposed professor of medieval history, Nell shows no signs of being capable of even basic intellect, she's all mouth off and talk her way into trouble. When another Dark One comments 'You're joined to her' I totally saw his point. She must be the least perceptive character ever created.
I don't quite get the mix of dark moments with the frothy talky tone of the rest of the book. It just makes Nell more annoying by context.
If the big bad demon is trapped in a statue why is Adrian still running around at his bidding? If it was that easy to save Damien how come they hadn't done it already?
This is a quick trashy read, as long as you tackle it looking only for a brain-off giggle you'll likely enjoy it well enough.
There are a few genuinely funny moments; Adrian defending his grim reputation and getting shot down, the mummies, Damien. Often though it tries too hard, I found the 'Oh look at the cute American' theme highly irratating.
For a supposed professor of medieval history, Nell shows no signs of being capable of even basic intellect, she's all mouth off and talk her way into trouble. When another Dark One comments 'You're joined to her' I totally saw his point. She must be the least perceptive character ever created.
I don't quite get the mix of dark moments with the frothy talky tone of the rest of the book. It just makes Nell more annoying by context.
If the big bad demon is trapped in a statue why is Adrian still running around at his bidding? If it was that easy to save Damien how come they hadn't done it already?
This is a quick trashy read, as long as you tackle it looking only for a brain-off giggle you'll likely enjoy it well enough.
April 19, 2017
Well I liked this one better than the others.. Actually I was really enjoying it until about 80% in and then we find out that thing about Adrian and then I hate him for keeping it a secret. Yes that's confusing but I don't want to give it away. But let's just say that I find him less appealing afterwards.. Not because of the actual thing but just because he didn't tell anyone.
But this one was pretty funny. There were times.. okay a lot of times that I wanted to punch Nell. She was immature and she got over things way too quickly. She finds out that imps and vampires and demons are real and she's all 'oh okay. Let's go kick some ass.' I dunno. I go back and forth with her. Adrian seemed like an ok guy. lol.
Ill read the next one because at least this one was better. Hopefully the next one gets better?
But this one was pretty funny. There were times.. okay a lot of times that I wanted to punch Nell. She was immature and she got over things way too quickly. She finds out that imps and vampires and demons are real and she's all 'oh okay. Let's go kick some ass.' I dunno. I go back and forth with her. Adrian seemed like an ok guy. lol.
Ill read the next one because at least this one was better. Hopefully the next one gets better?
March 9, 2018
I read this book for God-knows-when and I have barely remembered anything from it except that I laughed and cringed of how cliché it was. I can't remember anything from it but it was certainly a book where you want to keep reading but just have to stop halfway to laugh your guts out. I don't know OK!! I'm feeling mediocre for this book. I'll probably do a reread soon after I read Renegades and binge-watch Stranger Things(STOP JUDGING ME!! I STILL HAVEN'T FINISHED IT YET OKAY? AND THEY BETTER HAVE SEASON 3 FOR CHRIST'S SAKE!) Or perhaps I won't do a reread! I don't care. P.S: Is this a third book of a series? Psh! Who cares, okay?
May 3, 2022
I'm enjoying this series, its fun!
October 4, 2015
"To each male Dark One there is one woman, his Beloved, who can redeem his soul. Those who remain unredeemed are forever damned."
I know it's corny but believe me the humour, sex and interesting story make up for it - and it's an easy and quick read ;)
In this book we meet the Betrayer Adrian (the Dark one who gave Sebastion to Asmodeus in the last book) and his soon-to-be Beloved Nell. Of course Nell has a handicap/dark past, having had a stroke after she tried to lift a curse by Asmodeus 10 years ago and now her whole left side is weak and she can't use her powers as a Charmer anymore. Adrian is hated by his people and has been working for Asmodeus as long as they remember, but no one ever made an effort to ask for his reasons.
The Moravian Melissandre calls Nell under false pretence as a medievalist to Prague, actually wanting her help as a Charmer to find her missing nephew Damian. Nell doesn't have anything to do with the otherworldly, not anymore, and does not want to be involved with it but is manipulated into helping. Before she can do much, she is kidnapped by the Betrayer, the man Melissandre warned her of.
I have to say I loved the ending in this book. How they defeated the villain is just brilliant. I would like to explain my reasons but I really do not want to spoil anything.
Here my review for the whole series:
Summary: easy to read, humorous, paranormal, kick-ass romance with lots of good sex.
The basic ideas are the same in every book: Every single book is humorous, has an macho Dark One and a kick-ass Beloved. The Beloved is the only human(-like creature) in the whole world who can save the soul of the Dark One and end his pain, most Dark Ones never find their Beloved. The dynamic between the godlike male and the female is always hot and really funny to observe. In most books at least one of the two doesn't want the relationship or has issues, he mostly wants to dominate her but she doesn't like that and gives it to him straight. Eventually he is under her thumb and she realises it may not be as bad to have a male in her live (the roles can be reversed). There is a crisis they have to overcome and bad boys that need to be kicked in the ass. Always the same basic ideas and always successful. Nonetheless, each story is unique and all books are different, therefore it doesn't get boring, quite the opposite. Of course the stories are (more than) a bit corny but the really hot sex makes up for it.
The story is always interesting (and funny) and the magic system and magic world that is revealed a bit more with each book is really(!) fascinating. First, the Dark Ones (kind of vampire) are introduced together with the fact that there is magic and there are psychics like summoners, who interact with ghosts, or guardians, who make sure that nothing demonic makes itself at home in the human world. But there is a lot more to it and at the end of the official tenth book I was very pleased with the system and magic world (like the system of heaven, hell, god and devil; it's just great)!
My only critique is that the background story that becomes apparent after a few books is kind of annoying because it takes a very long time and you still don't know anything. Normally a common thread is nice but this is just annoying. I hate not getting answers to events and questions that happened, right now there are ten official books and which each book (starting with the sixth) there are only more questions.
The first books can be read as stand-alones but all the characters we meet appear again in later books and I would reccomend to read them in order (but skip the first one). I know there are quite a few books in this series, but they are easy to read and e.g. for the second book I did not even need 6 hours to read it.
read: (?, 05.03.15,) 09.08.15
I know it's corny but believe me the humour, sex and interesting story make up for it - and it's an easy and quick read ;)
In this book we meet the Betrayer Adrian (the Dark one who gave Sebastion to Asmodeus in the last book) and his soon-to-be Beloved Nell. Of course Nell has a handicap/dark past, having had a stroke after she tried to lift a curse by Asmodeus 10 years ago and now her whole left side is weak and she can't use her powers as a Charmer anymore. Adrian is hated by his people and has been working for Asmodeus as long as they remember, but no one ever made an effort to ask for his reasons.
The Moravian Melissandre calls Nell under false pretence as a medievalist to Prague, actually wanting her help as a Charmer to find her missing nephew Damian. Nell doesn't have anything to do with the otherworldly, not anymore, and does not want to be involved with it but is manipulated into helping. Before she can do much, she is kidnapped by the Betrayer, the man Melissandre warned her of.
I have to say I loved the ending in this book. How they defeated the villain is just brilliant. I would like to explain my reasons but I really do not want to spoil anything.
Here my review for the whole series:
Summary: easy to read, humorous, paranormal, kick-ass romance with lots of good sex.
The basic ideas are the same in every book: Every single book is humorous, has an macho Dark One and a kick-ass Beloved. The Beloved is the only human(-like creature) in the whole world who can save the soul of the Dark One and end his pain, most Dark Ones never find their Beloved. The dynamic between the godlike male and the female is always hot and really funny to observe. In most books at least one of the two doesn't want the relationship or has issues, he mostly wants to dominate her but she doesn't like that and gives it to him straight. Eventually he is under her thumb and she realises it may not be as bad to have a male in her live (the roles can be reversed). There is a crisis they have to overcome and bad boys that need to be kicked in the ass. Always the same basic ideas and always successful. Nonetheless, each story is unique and all books are different, therefore it doesn't get boring, quite the opposite. Of course the stories are (more than) a bit corny but the really hot sex makes up for it.
The story is always interesting (and funny) and the magic system and magic world that is revealed a bit more with each book is really(!) fascinating. First, the Dark Ones (kind of vampire) are introduced together with the fact that there is magic and there are psychics like summoners, who interact with ghosts, or guardians, who make sure that nothing demonic makes itself at home in the human world. But there is a lot more to it and at the end of the official tenth book I was very pleased with the system and magic world (like the system of heaven, hell, god and devil; it's just great)!
My only critique is that the background story that becomes apparent after a few books is kind of annoying because it takes a very long time and you still don't know anything. Normally a common thread is nice but this is just annoying. I hate not getting answers to events and questions that happened, right now there are ten official books and which each book (starting with the sixth) there are only more questions.
The first books can be read as stand-alones but all the characters we meet appear again in later books and I would reccomend to read them in order (but skip the first one). I know there are quite a few books in this series, but they are easy to read and e.g. for the second book I did not even need 6 hours to read it.
read: (?, 05.03.15,) 09.08.15
June 2, 2013
I'm in a Starbucks leaching free wifi in a foreign country on my holiday and this book has driven me to a point where I'm going on to goodreads to review it.
Having just read the last three books in the past few days, I believe that my judgement was highly impaired in the past to believe that the books in this series that I've read, namely Even Vampires Get the Blues and In the Company of Vampires were in any way okay. The first book was atrocious and I didn't want to review it cause I didn't want anyone to realise I read it and actually bothered to put in effort to hate it. Joy epitomises my abhorrence of some paranormal romance. She's oblivious, useless, and proceeds to nearly get everyone killed in her pathetic attempt to save the world. Perhaps she should get applause for making the attempt. But her ignorance of her own idiocy and ineptitude drives me up the wall and I just want to reach in the hook and strangle her. The second book was slightly more palatable with a more intelligent female protagonist in allie but the story baffles me as she seems to go from complete ignorance of dark ones to a veritable expert. This one takes the cake. The author constantly reminds you that they have known each other for one short day and they have already completed 4 steps of the joining. You might be attracted to the man physically. You might even be in love with him after you get to know him. But I refuse to accept that she is demanding he join with her and is completely okay with spending the rest of eternity with him. And at the scene where I presume they're about to have sex and she tears his shirt off, I find myself wincing in pain. At the absurdity and at the fact that I have nothing else to read but this trash.
Having just read the last three books in the past few days, I believe that my judgement was highly impaired in the past to believe that the books in this series that I've read, namely Even Vampires Get the Blues and In the Company of Vampires were in any way okay. The first book was atrocious and I didn't want to review it cause I didn't want anyone to realise I read it and actually bothered to put in effort to hate it. Joy epitomises my abhorrence of some paranormal romance. She's oblivious, useless, and proceeds to nearly get everyone killed in her pathetic attempt to save the world. Perhaps she should get applause for making the attempt. But her ignorance of her own idiocy and ineptitude drives me up the wall and I just want to reach in the hook and strangle her. The second book was slightly more palatable with a more intelligent female protagonist in allie but the story baffles me as she seems to go from complete ignorance of dark ones to a veritable expert. This one takes the cake. The author constantly reminds you that they have known each other for one short day and they have already completed 4 steps of the joining. You might be attracted to the man physically. You might even be in love with him after you get to know him. But I refuse to accept that she is demanding he join with her and is completely okay with spending the rest of eternity with him. And at the scene where I presume they're about to have sex and she tears his shirt off, I find myself wincing in pain. At the absurdity and at the fact that I have nothing else to read but this trash.
January 22, 2011
Class Desc: Are you responsible for lifting a centuries-old curse from the sexiest vampire you've ever seen? Does a demon lord want to destroy you? Have you somehow inadvertently bound several mummies to your soul? If you answered yes.... well, you're in big trouble. Let this book show you the power of love can salvage even the worst of situations.... not to mention the most tormented of men.
This book is about Nell Harris, she's a charmer who is hired by a Moravian woman to find her nephew and brother.
Adriam Tomas, is a Dark One who is called the Betrayer, because he's Bound to a Demon Lord and he has no other choice but to lead some of his people to this Lord to destroy. Poor Adriam is doomed to be hunted by his own people.
Nell is kidnapped by Adriam when she's in Christian Dante's castle looking for a object that will lead to a curse so that she may unravel to save a child. While searchin a room she's accousted by Adriam who's macho attitude is You should fear me I'm the Betrayer. Nell just brushes him off, because she doesn't feel that he's evil. This is the beginning of a funny and adventuous relationship. Nell and Adriam realize that Nell is his Beloved.
However Adriam has other plans when it comes to that. He feels that he doesn't deserve anybody or anyone for he's doomed to die. There story is such a touching and funny love story. Katie has such away of writing. I thoughly enjoy reading her books because I'm constantly laughing at the heriones and hero's in her book.
If you want to feel good and get a beautiful story. Read Katie MacAlister's books. I have yet to read a bad one from her.
This book is about Nell Harris, she's a charmer who is hired by a Moravian woman to find her nephew and brother.
Adriam Tomas, is a Dark One who is called the Betrayer, because he's Bound to a Demon Lord and he has no other choice but to lead some of his people to this Lord to destroy. Poor Adriam is doomed to be hunted by his own people.
Nell is kidnapped by Adriam when she's in Christian Dante's castle looking for a object that will lead to a curse so that she may unravel to save a child. While searchin a room she's accousted by Adriam who's macho attitude is You should fear me I'm the Betrayer. Nell just brushes him off, because she doesn't feel that he's evil. This is the beginning of a funny and adventuous relationship. Nell and Adriam realize that Nell is his Beloved.
However Adriam has other plans when it comes to that. He feels that he doesn't deserve anybody or anyone for he's doomed to die. There story is such a touching and funny love story. Katie has such away of writing. I thoughly enjoy reading her books because I'm constantly laughing at the heriones and hero's in her book.
If you want to feel good and get a beautiful story. Read Katie MacAlister's books. I have yet to read a bad one from her.
September 10, 2013
I can't decide if I like this series or it makes me nuts and I just keep reading it because it is about vampires and sex. The silliness of this one really got to me. I found myself huffing and putting the book down, rolling my eyes, and just generally being irritated with the stupid conversations and silly reactions of the female lead. The story was good, the sex scenes were good, the other characters were good, and I enjoyed, as usual, the further information on characters from the previous books (an continued epilogue if you will). BUT the silliness and stupidity were REAL distractions in this one. I enjoyed some of it and laughed as usual, but more times than not it was just dumb. I hate to be so harsh, but that is how I honestly felt. Unrealistic responses and conversations during times of conflict were the most annoying. Now I realize that these books are about vampires; however, even in this genre you can go to far with the comfort zone of the humans in this supernatural world. That is what this book does. No one in real life is going to be shooting their mouth off about someone being too bossy when their lives are in jeopardy. No one is going to be saying silly pet names to their rescuers when danger is still there. No one is going to take time to swoon and have a fondle session when the enemy is right there standing behind them. And no enemy would allow that! ugh. I will continue on with this series and see where it goes for now. I don't really recommend this book unless you are a fan of silliness or just want to read it because you are into the series like I am.
May 29, 2011
This isn't really a proper book reiview, as I never finished the book. I got to about half way, and something else came along to read that was better, so I switched to that instead.
Sex, Lies and Vampires was nowhere near as good as the second book in the series, and to be honest I was getting bored of the tone of the books. Sure the writer was trying to be funny, trying to show how ridiculus and crazy the whole supernatural world was, but because the books never took themselves seriously, I never took them seriously either. Like in Twilight, everything is so serious that at some points its a bit silly and over dramatic, but due to the serious tone , as a reader you take the events that happen seriously and it makes the whole thing more realistic if the Characters understand the danger they are in. But Katie MacAlister's books seem to laugh at the whole supernatural world. The main female character in this book anyway, seems so loved up she can't even tell how dangerous the whole plot is, this is the same as in book 1 of the series.
And also by the third book, I realised how formulatic each book in the series was: girl protoganist meets vampire who must be saved, and a fight for dominance between them occurs while other forces ( human, demon, it doesn't matter) try to kill them.
If your looking for a light summer read with comedy, romance and the supernatural, I recomend some Charlain Harris.
Sex, Lies and Vampires was nowhere near as good as the second book in the series, and to be honest I was getting bored of the tone of the books. Sure the writer was trying to be funny, trying to show how ridiculus and crazy the whole supernatural world was, but because the books never took themselves seriously, I never took them seriously either. Like in Twilight, everything is so serious that at some points its a bit silly and over dramatic, but due to the serious tone , as a reader you take the events that happen seriously and it makes the whole thing more realistic if the Characters understand the danger they are in. But Katie MacAlister's books seem to laugh at the whole supernatural world. The main female character in this book anyway, seems so loved up she can't even tell how dangerous the whole plot is, this is the same as in book 1 of the series.
And also by the third book, I realised how formulatic each book in the series was: girl protoganist meets vampire who must be saved, and a fight for dominance between them occurs while other forces ( human, demon, it doesn't matter) try to kill them.
If your looking for a light summer read with comedy, romance and the supernatural, I recomend some Charlain Harris.
March 2, 2014
This book came right on time for me. It was a sip of water in the “good book” drought that I’ve been experiencing. Thus far, this book has been the most interesting of the Dark One series. I liked both main characters, the male and female. I’m uncertain of the reasons why MacAlister insists on making her main female characters quasi-cripples, but this one was more appealing than Allie from the last book (Sex and the Single Vampire). Reading about someone repulsing others and hobbling around does not go hand-in-hand with love scenes, in my opinion. Yes, there is someone for everyone and it is nice it have character diversity. On the flipside though, it is sometimes difficult for me to relate to the characters in these situations. I also get frustrated when these women have to run and their bum leg slows them down. It ruins the action scenes.
Anyways, this book was full of surprises and kept me enthralled. My skimming was kept to a minimum even though I still found it a necessary skill. There was too much repetition of obvious feelings and thoughts. Some of the story was also reminiscent of other MacAlister novels, particularly the Aishling Grey: Guardian and Silver Dragon series. The main characters in this book did and said the right things, creating a dreamy atmosphere that I could happily choose over reality. Finally, an all-around enjoyable book in this series.
For more book recommendations and reviews go to thatcedalife.wix.com/home.
Anyways, this book was full of surprises and kept me enthralled. My skimming was kept to a minimum even though I still found it a necessary skill. There was too much repetition of obvious feelings and thoughts. Some of the story was also reminiscent of other MacAlister novels, particularly the Aishling Grey: Guardian and Silver Dragon series. The main characters in this book did and said the right things, creating a dreamy atmosphere that I could happily choose over reality. Finally, an all-around enjoyable book in this series.
For more book recommendations and reviews go to thatcedalife.wix.com/home.
April 7, 2012
I am definitely starting to enjoy these books more as the series progresses. For one thing, the two idiots from the first book weren't in this one at all. That helps a lot. Christian and Allie are back, and I thought it was a really interesting twist to see them as the "enemies" for a good portion of the book. I'm a bit confused on Sebastian, though. After Christian's book, I had the impression he was a good guy. I hope he gets better in the next ones. Adrian and Nell are a fun combo. I like that they bicker like a normal couple. It's funny to see her calling him "snugglebunny" and such, and then seeing him enraged and yelling, "I'm the Betrayer! Men cower before me!" It just tickled me. :)
September 1, 2016
Leider nicht so gut wie die ersten beiden Teile aber was nettes für zwischendurch.
June 30, 2024
Agonizingly bad.
January 31, 2024
Nell, tasked with translating an ancient breastplate, realizes Melissande seeks more than just linguistic prowess. Melissande needs Nell to locate and rescue her nephew from the clutches of a demon lord and a Dark One, The Betrayer. As Nell delves into the investigation, she uncovers layers beyond her initial understanding. Initial fear of The Betrayer transforms into unexpected desire, prompting Nell to question the entire situation. Unsure if her suspicions are accurate, she wonders if she's on the brink of unveiling the truth or becoming The Betrayer's next victim.
1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 4/5
The storyline is engaging, offering an entertaining journey with well-executed banter. While following the basic dark one's formula, the unique twists keep it fresh. The anticipation of the main characters falling for each other is predictable, but the adventure along the way makes it an enjoyable ride.
2. **Characterization:** 5/5
Nell, the main character, shines with imperfections, fears, and relatable hang-ups. Her banter with the grumpy Adrian adds depth to their dynamic. The entire cast is fully fleshed out, creating characters that readers can genuinely cheer on.
3. **Writing Style:** 5/5
Katie MacAlister's writing style continues to impress, delivering a concise, fast-paced, and emotionally charged narrative. The book is a testament to her consistently good work.
4. **Originality:** 3/5
While the story is unique and enjoyable, there's a sense of repetition with the basic dark ones formula. It remains fun, but a desire for a more distinctive narrative arises.
5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 4/5
The book skillfully takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, balancing worry and laughter. The resolution ties everything up neatly, providing a satisfying and fun experience.
6. **Audiobook:** 4/5
The narrator delivers a commendable performance, capturing the emotions and nuances of the story. Pacing and flow are seamless, enhancing the overall narrative experience.
7. **Smut:** 4/5
The intimate scenes contribute significantly to the story, offering a satisfying level of spice. They enhance the overall experience without overshadowing other aspects, striking a well-balanced note.
In summary, "A Delightful Adventure with a Hint of Familiarity" offers a captivating experience with well-developed characters and MacAlister's signature writing style. The book strikes a good balance between familiar elements and originality, with intimate scenes adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
Overall score: 4.14/5
I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal romance who enjoy a blend of humor, engaging character dynamics, and a touch of the supernatural. Those who appreciate Katie MacAlister's writing style, with its fast-paced and emotionally charged narrative, would likely find this book appealing. If you enjoyed this book I’d recommend "Dead Until Dark" by Charlaine Harris. It's the first book in the Sookie Stackhouse series, known for its mix of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements. The story revolves around a telepathic waitress and a vampire in a world where vampires have "come out of the coffin." It offers a unique take on paranormal romance with a touch of humor.
1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 4/5
The storyline is engaging, offering an entertaining journey with well-executed banter. While following the basic dark one's formula, the unique twists keep it fresh. The anticipation of the main characters falling for each other is predictable, but the adventure along the way makes it an enjoyable ride.
2. **Characterization:** 5/5
Nell, the main character, shines with imperfections, fears, and relatable hang-ups. Her banter with the grumpy Adrian adds depth to their dynamic. The entire cast is fully fleshed out, creating characters that readers can genuinely cheer on.
3. **Writing Style:** 5/5
Katie MacAlister's writing style continues to impress, delivering a concise, fast-paced, and emotionally charged narrative. The book is a testament to her consistently good work.
4. **Originality:** 3/5
While the story is unique and enjoyable, there's a sense of repetition with the basic dark ones formula. It remains fun, but a desire for a more distinctive narrative arises.
5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 4/5
The book skillfully takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, balancing worry and laughter. The resolution ties everything up neatly, providing a satisfying and fun experience.
6. **Audiobook:** 4/5
The narrator delivers a commendable performance, capturing the emotions and nuances of the story. Pacing and flow are seamless, enhancing the overall narrative experience.
7. **Smut:** 4/5
The intimate scenes contribute significantly to the story, offering a satisfying level of spice. They enhance the overall experience without overshadowing other aspects, striking a well-balanced note.
In summary, "A Delightful Adventure with a Hint of Familiarity" offers a captivating experience with well-developed characters and MacAlister's signature writing style. The book strikes a good balance between familiar elements and originality, with intimate scenes adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
Overall score: 4.14/5
I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal romance who enjoy a blend of humor, engaging character dynamics, and a touch of the supernatural. Those who appreciate Katie MacAlister's writing style, with its fast-paced and emotionally charged narrative, would likely find this book appealing. If you enjoyed this book I’d recommend "Dead Until Dark" by Charlaine Harris. It's the first book in the Sookie Stackhouse series, known for its mix of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements. The story revolves around a telepathic waitress and a vampire in a world where vampires have "come out of the coffin." It offers a unique take on paranormal romance with a touch of humor.
December 5, 2017
Die Dozentin Nell wird von Melissande nach Prag eingeladen, um hinter ein Geheimnis zu kommen und die „Dunklen“ von einem Fluch zu befreien, dabei lernt die den Verräter Adrian kennen. Nell soll aber nicht nur das Geheimnis lösen, sie soll auch noch jemanden für Melissande retten. Während der Geschichte findet dann Nell heraus, dass Adrian an den Dämon Asmodeus gebunden ist und sie versucht diese Verbindung zu lösen.
Die Protagonisten in dieser Geschichte sind einfach nur ...ätzend! Ich war von dem ersten Band so begeistert und dann habe ich diese Geschichte gelesen und das Gefühl gehabt, ich lese etwas von einem ganz anderen Autor. Nell verhält sich wie ein kindischer Teenie. Sie ist einfach nervig, ihre Kommentare total daneben und sie ist dauer-notgeil (sie will mit Adrian am liebsten auf der Straße vor all den Leuten Sex haben. WTF?!). Adrian ist der dunkle, heiße Vampire. Er redet dauernd davon, dass er böse ist, und dass er „der Verräter“ sei. Ich hatte das Gefühl, die Dialoge zwischen den beiden haben sich immer wieder wiederholt, um einfach auf eine bestimmte Seitenzahl zu kommen. Die Grundgeschichte, dass Adrian an einen Dämon gebunden wurde, und dass Nell nun versucht diese Verbindung zu lösen, ging für mich unter.
Ich war von dieser Geschichte so enttäuscht.
Da ich die Geschichte in der deutschen Reihenfolge gelesen habe und mich über Christian und seine Freundin gewundert habe, habe ich etwas im Internet nachgeschaut und dabei festgestellt, dass Band 2 und 3 verkehrt veröffentlicht wurden. Dabei kam aber auch heraus, dass die Geschichte zwischen Christian und Allie wohl genauso geschrieben wurde, wie zwischen Nell und Adrian, nur mit vertauschten Namen. Wenn ich so etwas lese, dann frustriert mich das als Leser.
Die Protagonisten in dieser Geschichte sind einfach nur ...ätzend! Ich war von dem ersten Band so begeistert und dann habe ich diese Geschichte gelesen und das Gefühl gehabt, ich lese etwas von einem ganz anderen Autor. Nell verhält sich wie ein kindischer Teenie. Sie ist einfach nervig, ihre Kommentare total daneben und sie ist dauer-notgeil (sie will mit Adrian am liebsten auf der Straße vor all den Leuten Sex haben. WTF?!). Adrian ist der dunkle, heiße Vampire. Er redet dauernd davon, dass er böse ist, und dass er „der Verräter“ sei. Ich hatte das Gefühl, die Dialoge zwischen den beiden haben sich immer wieder wiederholt, um einfach auf eine bestimmte Seitenzahl zu kommen. Die Grundgeschichte, dass Adrian an einen Dämon gebunden wurde, und dass Nell nun versucht diese Verbindung zu lösen, ging für mich unter.
Ich war von dieser Geschichte so enttäuscht.
Da ich die Geschichte in der deutschen Reihenfolge gelesen habe und mich über Christian und seine Freundin gewundert habe, habe ich etwas im Internet nachgeschaut und dabei festgestellt, dass Band 2 und 3 verkehrt veröffentlicht wurden. Dabei kam aber auch heraus, dass die Geschichte zwischen Christian und Allie wohl genauso geschrieben wurde, wie zwischen Nell und Adrian, nur mit vertauschten Namen. Wenn ich so etwas lese, dann frustriert mich das als Leser.
May 5, 2013
Setting: from Seattle to Czech Republic – Prague; library and rooms Drahanska Castle (Christian’s home); Art Museum in London; hotel and Christian’s other home in London; ghost whore house and drabby room in Berlin;
Theme: working within framework of fate; taking on fate and shaping it for yourself; optimism and faith; love;
Characters:
Dr. Nell Harris: of antiquities/history; a Charmer – able to create charms, and unwind other’s charms; enticed by the Graven Plate of Milan – a medieval piece of armor; in college met with a Romany wiccan that her friend/roommate was studying under; learned a few wards, can see wards/charms, and follows the patterns, and can touch one, and tracing the pattern backwards can remove ward/charm; encouraged by roommate to disable a curse charm on a cloth used by the first Inquisioner; the curse belonged to demon Asmodeus, and once she started to unravel it she could not stop – her roommate was enthralled and would not leave when she told her to, things were going wrong – and at the end, there is a light in her head and a blast – leaving her roommate dead and her in a coma – when awoke, had a stoke – leaving her left side somewhat damaged and weaker and her closing off that side ofher brain;
Melissande Bancek: Moravian; contacts and flies Nell over (with promise of the Graven Plate) knowing she is a rare Charmer, who can release her 10 year old nephew from the curse holding him bound to Asmodeus; Though Nell denies the charmer abilities, Mel overwhelms her and engages her aid;
Asmodeus, demon lord: Adrian is his servant; Allie stole his power ring, and he is bound to a statue held at the London museum; he has instructed Adrian to locate his ring and bring it to him/
Damian: Adrian’s son (though Nell doesn’t know this until they finally rescue him); his uncle Saen bound him to Asmodeus – as part of his plot to depose Asmodeus; he is in suspended animation, in a box in the museum;
Belinda: Adrian’s ex lover, Damian’s mother; Saen’s unclaimed Beloved; she wants her son safely back;
AdrianTomas, Moravian Dark One: aka The Betrayer; he calls Nell “Hasi”, German for bunny – a term used for lovers; identical twin to Saen; sold to Asmodeus at the age of 2 by his father, in trade for sexual prowess/attraction; he is forced to draw other Moravian’s to Asmodeus and within the boundaries set, he does his best to protect those he can – never taking pleasure in what he is doing; he meets up with Nell when breaking into Christian’s house to retrieve Asmodeus’ ring, and he recognizes Nell as his Beloved, and he also wants to rescue Damian – kidnapping her to insure her help – knowing Mel would not accept his help;
Saer: Adrian’s twin; he is the one who has bound Damian to Asmodeus, trying to get the power himself; plans to take ring, finish joining with his Beloved, then sacrifice her to the power needed to take
Asmodeus’ power;
Christian Dante / Allie: working with Mel and Saer to locate Adrian and Damian; but when Nell stands up for Adrian, Christian considers what she said, and sees the truth – and offers help and apologies to Nell;
Sebastian: Saer’s friend, and fully committed to taking Adrian the Betrayer down;
Gigli:Knocker – Welsh spirit who inhabiting a human form; Berlin; madame for a whore house for poltergeists; she helps Adrian and Nell get false passports and a flight to London as Adrian has aided her in the past;
Summary:
When first taken from Christian’s library, Adrian takes her through a tunnel to a small room to wait out daylight… she has a panic attack, and Adrian eases her through it, providing what light he can, holding her, allowing her to sleep in his arms; and when they kiss, Nell sees the pain, loneliness, desolation where his soul belongs – and she promises to help him regain his soul; she can see the charm/curse that binds him to Asmodeus, but keeps insisting she is not a Charmer – that she cannot release him… but bit by bit as she ties into her powers to counter the various situations they find themselves (fighting Sebastian, imprisoned in the dungeon, escaping) she is gaining confidence in her powers;
They find Damian, she unbinds him (with the power of the ring to aid her)… and then return to Christian’s to prepare for Saen’s attack; Nell turns his Neo-Nazi men to slugs, goes to rescue Adrian from Saen (he plans to sacrifice himself for her safety) – she finds him pinned to the wall with swords in the wall – and Saen attacks her, Adrian frees himself, and slices Saen’s head off – an anticlimactic end to Saen; but the ring is broken, and she despairs of breaking the charm/curse; but she knows they cannot live with him not gaining back his soul, and though it may destroy her, she must try… and she does unbind the curse, through the cold and pain it produces – and having embraced her light, she is fully healed and in access to her power; ahhh
Memorable scenes:
“With my good arm I clutched my bag (beat up with one torn handle) to my chest (stuffed into a bra stretched to its limits to restrain overly abundant occupants)…”
“… tall, taller than me and I’m no slouch, with lovely broad shoulders and a chest that had my Inner Nell doing a girlish swoon.”
“…change my name to Alice and settle down to a happy life of insanity in Wonderland.”
Nicknames Nell tries for Adrian: lambypie, spaetzel, potato cakes; loveykins; etc. – Adrian likes ‘love’ best of all;
After Nell joins fully with Adrian, becoming his full Beloved – she voices her disappointment that she still has the results of the stroke – slightly sagging left side of face, arm and leg on leftside not so strong; then she has to reassure Adrian she joined with him because she loves him fully, not because she expected to be healed – she just thought that would be a side effect;
When Damian wakes after Nell frees him, he complains to his dad that Nell smells nasty, and he is not happy dad had a girlfriend… Damian doesn’t warm up to her, and nell suggests to Adrian – Dark Ones Boarding School : )
Theme: working within framework of fate; taking on fate and shaping it for yourself; optimism and faith; love;
Characters:
Dr. Nell Harris: of antiquities/history; a Charmer – able to create charms, and unwind other’s charms; enticed by the Graven Plate of Milan – a medieval piece of armor; in college met with a Romany wiccan that her friend/roommate was studying under; learned a few wards, can see wards/charms, and follows the patterns, and can touch one, and tracing the pattern backwards can remove ward/charm; encouraged by roommate to disable a curse charm on a cloth used by the first Inquisioner; the curse belonged to demon Asmodeus, and once she started to unravel it she could not stop – her roommate was enthralled and would not leave when she told her to, things were going wrong – and at the end, there is a light in her head and a blast – leaving her roommate dead and her in a coma – when awoke, had a stoke – leaving her left side somewhat damaged and weaker and her closing off that side ofher brain;
Melissande Bancek: Moravian; contacts and flies Nell over (with promise of the Graven Plate) knowing she is a rare Charmer, who can release her 10 year old nephew from the curse holding him bound to Asmodeus; Though Nell denies the charmer abilities, Mel overwhelms her and engages her aid;
Asmodeus, demon lord: Adrian is his servant; Allie stole his power ring, and he is bound to a statue held at the London museum; he has instructed Adrian to locate his ring and bring it to him/
Damian: Adrian’s son (though Nell doesn’t know this until they finally rescue him); his uncle Saen bound him to Asmodeus – as part of his plot to depose Asmodeus; he is in suspended animation, in a box in the museum;
Belinda: Adrian’s ex lover, Damian’s mother; Saen’s unclaimed Beloved; she wants her son safely back;
AdrianTomas, Moravian Dark One: aka The Betrayer; he calls Nell “Hasi”, German for bunny – a term used for lovers; identical twin to Saen; sold to Asmodeus at the age of 2 by his father, in trade for sexual prowess/attraction; he is forced to draw other Moravian’s to Asmodeus and within the boundaries set, he does his best to protect those he can – never taking pleasure in what he is doing; he meets up with Nell when breaking into Christian’s house to retrieve Asmodeus’ ring, and he recognizes Nell as his Beloved, and he also wants to rescue Damian – kidnapping her to insure her help – knowing Mel would not accept his help;
Saer: Adrian’s twin; he is the one who has bound Damian to Asmodeus, trying to get the power himself; plans to take ring, finish joining with his Beloved, then sacrifice her to the power needed to take
Asmodeus’ power;
Christian Dante / Allie: working with Mel and Saer to locate Adrian and Damian; but when Nell stands up for Adrian, Christian considers what she said, and sees the truth – and offers help and apologies to Nell;
Sebastian: Saer’s friend, and fully committed to taking Adrian the Betrayer down;
Gigli:Knocker – Welsh spirit who inhabiting a human form; Berlin; madame for a whore house for poltergeists; she helps Adrian and Nell get false passports and a flight to London as Adrian has aided her in the past;
Summary:
When first taken from Christian’s library, Adrian takes her through a tunnel to a small room to wait out daylight… she has a panic attack, and Adrian eases her through it, providing what light he can, holding her, allowing her to sleep in his arms; and when they kiss, Nell sees the pain, loneliness, desolation where his soul belongs – and she promises to help him regain his soul; she can see the charm/curse that binds him to Asmodeus, but keeps insisting she is not a Charmer – that she cannot release him… but bit by bit as she ties into her powers to counter the various situations they find themselves (fighting Sebastian, imprisoned in the dungeon, escaping) she is gaining confidence in her powers;
They find Damian, she unbinds him (with the power of the ring to aid her)… and then return to Christian’s to prepare for Saen’s attack; Nell turns his Neo-Nazi men to slugs, goes to rescue Adrian from Saen (he plans to sacrifice himself for her safety) – she finds him pinned to the wall with swords in the wall – and Saen attacks her, Adrian frees himself, and slices Saen’s head off – an anticlimactic end to Saen; but the ring is broken, and she despairs of breaking the charm/curse; but she knows they cannot live with him not gaining back his soul, and though it may destroy her, she must try… and she does unbind the curse, through the cold and pain it produces – and having embraced her light, she is fully healed and in access to her power; ahhh
Memorable scenes:
“With my good arm I clutched my bag (beat up with one torn handle) to my chest (stuffed into a bra stretched to its limits to restrain overly abundant occupants)…”
“… tall, taller than me and I’m no slouch, with lovely broad shoulders and a chest that had my Inner Nell doing a girlish swoon.”
“…change my name to Alice and settle down to a happy life of insanity in Wonderland.”
Nicknames Nell tries for Adrian: lambypie, spaetzel, potato cakes; loveykins; etc. – Adrian likes ‘love’ best of all;
After Nell joins fully with Adrian, becoming his full Beloved – she voices her disappointment that she still has the results of the stroke – slightly sagging left side of face, arm and leg on leftside not so strong; then she has to reassure Adrian she joined with him because she loves him fully, not because she expected to be healed – she just thought that would be a side effect;
When Damian wakes after Nell frees him, he complains to his dad that Nell smells nasty, and he is not happy dad had a girlfriend… Damian doesn’t warm up to her, and nell suggests to Adrian – Dark Ones Boarding School : )
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2018
This had a bit of slow start, but once Nell and Adrian met, the book picked up. The humor side of the writing and the argumentative dynamic of their relationship was a lot of fun. When it came to the serious side though, I wasn’t convinced at all. The best way to describe it is compare it to B-level horror movie acting. The plot could be interesting and the lines said are all the right things, but you just don’t buy the delivery of the emotions.
Also, the sex scenes got super cheesy. The dialogue was too much and I couldn’t take it seriously. It got to the point where I was wondering if this was supposed to be a parody. There was one part towards the end where . Like, I don’t know. It was just really weird to me and I probably could have gone without reading about that.
Also, the sex scenes got super cheesy. The dialogue was too much and I couldn’t take it seriously. It got to the point where I was wondering if this was supposed to be a parody. There was one part towards the end where . Like, I don’t know. It was just really weird to me and I probably could have gone without reading about that.
December 22, 2020
2.5 stars
This wasn't bad, I had fun. I especially had fun in the late middle, early ending part of the book.
My problems however were that the start felt very rushed, particularly the romance - very insta-lovey.
My other problem was that the ending felt very abrupt and anticlimactic. I get that she tried to pull off a twist/expectation subversion, but I didn't really think it landed.
My other issue is why Adrian kept so much information from Nell. Like he already looked into her head to suss out the boyfriend thing (which he definitely did not need to do), but if I was Nell, by the time it came to finding out that I'd be so far in his head I'd know every dirty secret he tried to keep from me. And it's not like anything he kept was on a need-to-know basis, Nell certainly needed to know.
Other than that, once I got past the insta-love I did enjoy myself, mostly.
This wasn't bad, I had fun. I especially had fun in the late middle, early ending part of the book.
My problems however were that the start felt very rushed, particularly the romance - very insta-lovey.
My other problem was that the ending felt very abrupt and anticlimactic. I get that she tried to pull off a twist/expectation subversion, but I didn't really think it landed.
My other issue is why Adrian kept so much information from Nell. Like he already looked into her head to suss out the boyfriend thing (which he definitely did not need to do), but if I was Nell, by the time it came to finding out that I'd be so far in his head I'd know every dirty secret he tried to keep from me. And it's not like anything he kept was on a need-to-know basis, Nell certainly needed to know.
Other than that, once I got past the insta-love I did enjoy myself, mostly.
September 10, 2021
Katie MacAlister has such a unique wit and humor and she wraps it up in the most amazingly developed world of all sorts of paranormal beings--not just vampires. I love that each book seems to have someone "new" to the world of the paranormal beings that live side-by-side with us and yet they rise to the challenges placed before them using their strength and sass. In this book, she builds such a cast of characters that you're never entirely sure who is really a good guy or a bad guy. Who do you trust when you're in a strange country surrounded by strangers and you're suddenly surrounded by supernatural creatures? But Nell manages beautifully by trusting her instincts. I especially love that none of MacAlister's characters are perfect--they all have flaws, even the incredibly sexy vampires. Well done, MacAlister!
December 21, 2019
I set this one down without finishing. I've read the first two books in the series (loved the first, disliked the second), so I knew what I was getting into—uninitiated, mouthy heroine snarking at the supernatural world and a brooding, I'm-more-damned-than-damned vampire love interest. It was fun for a little while, but then it stopped being fun when Nell (main character) got way too comfortable around her predatory kidnapper, whose supernatural existence she hadn't even believed in not three days before. With all sense of danger gone, her impulsive, ditzy comments got annoying. The schtick had been drawn out for too long.
No stakes, no fun, and no feels. =(
No stakes, no fun, and no feels. =(
July 7, 2022
OMG Nell is soooo annoying lmao!!! She drives Adrian mad but he love every minute of it. These two were made for each other. She isn't afraid of his big bad reputation. She just pushes back each time he reminds her he is the betrayer. I laughed so much reading this book. I really hated when it ended. I was disappointed to see Sabastian turn bad though. We got a glimpse of him in Christain and Ally's story. And the fact Christain risked his life to save Sabastian then he took Saars side in this story and betrayed Christian. I thought we would get a story for him and Noel since the girls were already thinking of ways to get the two together.
January 31, 2022
I laughed so hard thoughout this book that my 15 year-old son insisted that I read to him what I found so funny and HE laughed right along with me!
What a delicious romp this story was! I loved it so much I had to order the paperback as well just so I could hold it in my greedy hands. I'm hoping the other stories in this series are as much fun as this one! Tucking both the digital and paperback copies of this story onto my favorites shelf!
What a delicious romp this story was! I loved it so much I had to order the paperback as well just so I could hold it in my greedy hands. I'm hoping the other stories in this series are as much fun as this one! Tucking both the digital and paperback copies of this story onto my favorites shelf!
February 23, 2023
Nell Harris goes to Prague for a job but she finds out that they want her for some other reason. They found out she is a "Charmer" and want her to help save a young boy named Damien. She refuses because the last time she used her power terrible things happened. She meets Adrian, a "dark one" and gets swept away by him and trying to destroy a demon named Asmodeus.
I loved the character of Nell. She really was funny. Many references to Buffy the vampire slayer in this as well.
I loved the character of Nell. She really was funny. Many references to Buffy the vampire slayer in this as well.
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