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Hill Vampire #1
Dark Wine at Midnight
A seductive spy. An alpha vampire. A deadly assassin after them both...
When a rogue vampire group emerges from the shadows to enslave mortals, research scientist Cerissa Patel is the only one with an inside track to stop them.
The catch - she must go undercover in a vampire-controlled town where an assassin is on the loose and everyone is a suspect, including herself.
Worse, she must ignore her growing attraction to vampire Henry Bautista. He's rich, dangerous, and as complex as the wines he makes, and he will do anything to stop her from hurting the community he built.
With Henry watching her every move, she must uncover who's behind the rogue vampires and stop the assassin before Henry discovers what's hidden beneath her skin...
Dark Wine at Midnight is book 1 in the Hill Vampire series. Escape into the mystery, romance, and political intrigue of the Hill Vampire vineyards. Dangerous and seductive, the suspense will grab you and not let go.
When a rogue vampire group emerges from the shadows to enslave mortals, research scientist Cerissa Patel is the only one with an inside track to stop them.
The catch - she must go undercover in a vampire-controlled town where an assassin is on the loose and everyone is a suspect, including herself.
Worse, she must ignore her growing attraction to vampire Henry Bautista. He's rich, dangerous, and as complex as the wines he makes, and he will do anything to stop her from hurting the community he built.
With Henry watching her every move, she must uncover who's behind the rogue vampires and stop the assassin before Henry discovers what's hidden beneath her skin...
Dark Wine at Midnight is book 1 in the Hill Vampire series. Escape into the mystery, romance, and political intrigue of the Hill Vampire vineyards. Dangerous and seductive, the suspense will grab you and not let go.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2017
469 people are currently reading
1050 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Barwin
14 books444 followersAuthor of urban fantasy and paranormal romance novels with a blend of mystery, wine, and romantic spice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 26, 2017
I don't know where to even start. This book was amazing. It had action, suspense, mystery and romance. It had such a different twist on vampires and the paranormal. The story sucked me in and made me part of this vivid world. Once I started reading I couldn't stop. It was that good. I'm going to be sitting on the edge of my seat waiting on the second book. Don't miss out on reading this book!
I received an ARC copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 8, 2018
When an attractive research doctor is sent to acquire investors as an envoy for another vampire, she is also working as a double agent for her own undercover agency. She’s has to protect humanity from the vampires, but she learns that there is a killer on the loose and becomes unlikely allies with the town founders.
Full Review On YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/qYGzfAWRUl0
During the investigation and search for investors, she realizes she is attracted to a vampire despite her double agenda.
She has to come to terms with her feelings and figure out how to make her own decisions in her life instead of constantly being directed by her superiors, keeping them all alive in the process.
This is definitely an easy read with interesting characters and more going on than just the two people falling in love. Great read with a new exciting world to explore!
Full Review On YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/qYGzfAWRUl0
During the investigation and search for investors, she realizes she is attracted to a vampire despite her double agenda.
She has to come to terms with her feelings and figure out how to make her own decisions in her life instead of constantly being directed by her superiors, keeping them all alive in the process.
This is definitely an easy read with interesting characters and more going on than just the two people falling in love. Great read with a new exciting world to explore!
January 25, 2018
*Book source ~ Kindle Lending Library
Cerissa Patel is sent to The Hill to observe the vampire community and assess whether they are a threat to mankind. As her first field assignment unfolds though she’s finding it much more difficult than she expected. In addition, there is an assassin or assassins out there trying to kill the founders of The Hill. With Cerissa falling for founder Henry Bautista and someone out there gunning for him, she ends up making more mistakes than she thinks her superiors will allow. Oh, what a tangled web we weave…
One would think the vampire stories would be played out, but this take on the vampire world has a twist I didn’t see coming. A very interesting twist it is, too. The characters and story kept me involved, but there are some spots that drag a bit. And Cerissa sometimes needs to grow a stiffer backbone. Another downer is the story ends before there’s a decent resolution. Not exactly a huge cliffhanger, but disappointing all the same. However, the overall story is pretty good with characters to love and some hateful characters that you’ll want to put a stake in.
Cerissa Patel is sent to The Hill to observe the vampire community and assess whether they are a threat to mankind. As her first field assignment unfolds though she’s finding it much more difficult than she expected. In addition, there is an assassin or assassins out there trying to kill the founders of The Hill. With Cerissa falling for founder Henry Bautista and someone out there gunning for him, she ends up making more mistakes than she thinks her superiors will allow. Oh, what a tangled web we weave…
One would think the vampire stories would be played out, but this take on the vampire world has a twist I didn’t see coming. A very interesting twist it is, too. The characters and story kept me involved, but there are some spots that drag a bit. And Cerissa sometimes needs to grow a stiffer backbone. Another downer is the story ends before there’s a decent resolution. Not exactly a huge cliffhanger, but disappointing all the same. However, the overall story is pretty good with characters to love and some hateful characters that you’ll want to put a stake in.
June 5, 2017
First off, thank you to Jenna Barwin for a free copy of this book through goodreads giveaways!
This book was suspenseful, romantic, and moved at a fast pace. I think the author did very well at balancing descriptions with action. There was plenty of description to make the setting and characters seem real, but at the same time, this did not get in the way of the progression of the story. The characters in this book were probably the best part. They were all interesting with unique personalities that brought the story to life.
I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys fantasy, the paranormal, a good mystery, or an interesting romance. I am personally not a huge fan of romance novels, but the romance was done so well in this book that I actually found myself enjoying it. Plus there is much more going on in the story aside from the romance between the two leads. Definitely 5 stars from me!
This book was suspenseful, romantic, and moved at a fast pace. I think the author did very well at balancing descriptions with action. There was plenty of description to make the setting and characters seem real, but at the same time, this did not get in the way of the progression of the story. The characters in this book were probably the best part. They were all interesting with unique personalities that brought the story to life.
I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys fantasy, the paranormal, a good mystery, or an interesting romance. I am personally not a huge fan of romance novels, but the romance was done so well in this book that I actually found myself enjoying it. Plus there is much more going on in the story aside from the romance between the two leads. Definitely 5 stars from me!
June 14, 2022
A wonderfully written tale of vampires, mortals, and mystery. I enjoyed all of the characters and I can't wait to read the next book. It has left me wanting more. I love a good PNR. It's one of my favorite genres and this one hits the spot!
I highly recommend this book. I loved all of it. Once you start reading, you don't want it to stop.
I highly recommend this book. I loved all of it. Once you start reading, you don't want it to stop.
May 21, 2017
The beings referred to as the Lux are not actually human and very few know they even exist. Their goal is to protect the human population from war and extinction by an equally hidden vampire population.
Although the vampires try hard to prevent overpopulation since their food source, humans, would be depleted, there is a constant political push and shove. Some vampires feel there are too many rules, such as no one being allowed to create another vampire for the most part, no legal hunting of humans, and lots of meals courtesy of a blood bank. The Lux has discovered there is a group planning to topple their somewhat fragile government and return to their old ways.
Dr. Cerisse Patel lives with her people at the Lux Enclave. She prefers to think of herself as a scientist, but her superiors prefer she be a spy, even though she is pretty sure she lacks the talent. Vampire Leopold knows Cerisse as a human hired to be his envoy. This means she will live amongst vampires for many years, as she will be a daytime employee; the eyes and ears for Leopold. At the same time, she will watch out for the rebel vampires on behalf of the Lux.
After months of training and learning vampire protocol, Leopold sends Cerisse to the vampire community, Sierra Escondida. She is to seek out a certain property for him, where they hope to build a research lab that will benefit all vampires. Hopefully, the community will be willing to financially support such an endeavor. At the same time, she is to watch for the rebel vampires. She hadn’t expected the vampires to like her presence right away, but she is unprepared for the open dislike she faces.
The vampire hierarchy is extremely strict and immovable. Slowly, she approaches individuals to find they are not amenable to the research lab in their community. They dislike the thought of humans being employed and working on their turf. The strictly upheld law of no unmated humans in their midst is taken seriously.
Henry Bautista is one of the original founders of the town and he and the others created the basic laws and, as the years pass, have changed them as needed. Cerisse, an unmated human, is right in the heart of them. Henry is disturbed by her entrance as Leopold’s envoy and even more so by his attraction to her.
I found the story interesting. The first chapter starts with the Lux. Basically, I was left in the dark about them and confused about their abilities and differences from humans. The author mentions Cerisse’s abilities as if the reader is already aware of them. I had to turn back a page looking for a paragraph where I must have missed the ‘and here it comes’ moment. It was several chapters before I acquired any significant knowledge of Cerisse as a Lux, and I felt like the author didn’t have a finished product with this character, that it would have been helpful to the story if more information had been given. As it is, Cerisse has several interesting and handy skills, making her the latest in super-women. I thought Cerisse needed to have a more mature personality, being a Lux of substantial years. Also, the ending is quickly rolled up, as if the author was racing towards the finish line.
The grading:
Genre and general reading age – Romance/Fantasy for adults.
Level of sexuality – Graphic.
Is there graphic language? Yes, but definitely milder than a lot of books.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? This is book one in the Hill Vampire Series, complete with a cliffhanger.
Level of character development – They did not change or mature.
I rate this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
Although the vampires try hard to prevent overpopulation since their food source, humans, would be depleted, there is a constant political push and shove. Some vampires feel there are too many rules, such as no one being allowed to create another vampire for the most part, no legal hunting of humans, and lots of meals courtesy of a blood bank. The Lux has discovered there is a group planning to topple their somewhat fragile government and return to their old ways.
Dr. Cerisse Patel lives with her people at the Lux Enclave. She prefers to think of herself as a scientist, but her superiors prefer she be a spy, even though she is pretty sure she lacks the talent. Vampire Leopold knows Cerisse as a human hired to be his envoy. This means she will live amongst vampires for many years, as she will be a daytime employee; the eyes and ears for Leopold. At the same time, she will watch out for the rebel vampires on behalf of the Lux.
After months of training and learning vampire protocol, Leopold sends Cerisse to the vampire community, Sierra Escondida. She is to seek out a certain property for him, where they hope to build a research lab that will benefit all vampires. Hopefully, the community will be willing to financially support such an endeavor. At the same time, she is to watch for the rebel vampires. She hadn’t expected the vampires to like her presence right away, but she is unprepared for the open dislike she faces.
The vampire hierarchy is extremely strict and immovable. Slowly, she approaches individuals to find they are not amenable to the research lab in their community. They dislike the thought of humans being employed and working on their turf. The strictly upheld law of no unmated humans in their midst is taken seriously.
Henry Bautista is one of the original founders of the town and he and the others created the basic laws and, as the years pass, have changed them as needed. Cerisse, an unmated human, is right in the heart of them. Henry is disturbed by her entrance as Leopold’s envoy and even more so by his attraction to her.
I found the story interesting. The first chapter starts with the Lux. Basically, I was left in the dark about them and confused about their abilities and differences from humans. The author mentions Cerisse’s abilities as if the reader is already aware of them. I had to turn back a page looking for a paragraph where I must have missed the ‘and here it comes’ moment. It was several chapters before I acquired any significant knowledge of Cerisse as a Lux, and I felt like the author didn’t have a finished product with this character, that it would have been helpful to the story if more information had been given. As it is, Cerisse has several interesting and handy skills, making her the latest in super-women. I thought Cerisse needed to have a more mature personality, being a Lux of substantial years. Also, the ending is quickly rolled up, as if the author was racing towards the finish line.
The grading:
Genre and general reading age – Romance/Fantasy for adults.
Level of sexuality – Graphic.
Is there graphic language? Yes, but definitely milder than a lot of books.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? This is book one in the Hill Vampire Series, complete with a cliffhanger.
Level of character development – They did not change or mature.
I rate this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
February 7, 2019
Dark Wine at Midnight by Jenna Barwin is the first book in the Hill Vampire series. This being the author’s debut novel I had no idea what to expect in terms of delivery. The synopsis, however promised danger, seduction and suspense and it was this promise that drove my decision to pick up this book. In the end, I am glad I did.
Dr. Cerissa Patel was recruited by the Lux to go undercover in the vampire community as it was rumored that a rogue vampire group has emerged and is a threat to humankind. Her job was to uncover the mastermind behind the group and the plans that were afoot.
She is not keen on the assignment, but the compensation would be worth it as it would mean becoming an envoy for the vampires and in return, her dream of owning her own lab would come to fruition. Cerissa will discover, however that her task would not be an easy one.
She had her work cut out for her. The residents of the Hill did not trust her and it did not help she was an unmated mortal. To top it all, she fell for one of the founders, Henry Bautista.
Henry is a Vampire and wine maker and he was not keen on Cerissa being on the Hill. He believes she will be a distraction, which he confirmed when he realised he was attracted to her. An attraction he could not shake no matter how he tried. Haunted by his past and burdened with guilt as a result he feels he is not deserving of love.
I enjoyed the mystery element. Someone wanted Henry and another founding vampire dead. The suspect pool was small and identifying the villain was not that simple. I managed to figure it out before its revelation.
The characters needed some more development. Descriptions of the major players’ backgrounds were lacking. It would have been nice to have more information on Cerissa’s heritage and that of the other major players. I would love to have more insight about the Lux. What made them different from humans and what abilities they possessed? I love the racial diversity featured in the story.
I believe this is a great start to what appears to be a fantastic Urban Fantasy series. The unique plot and world building pulled me in and held me captive from start to finish. The pacing was ok mostly as there were parts of the story that dragged, but this did not disrupt my enjoyment.
The story ended without a resolution to the reason Cerissa went undercover. I hope will get answers to all questions raised in book two.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall a good read and I am looking forward to dive further into this unique world.
Dr. Cerissa Patel was recruited by the Lux to go undercover in the vampire community as it was rumored that a rogue vampire group has emerged and is a threat to humankind. Her job was to uncover the mastermind behind the group and the plans that were afoot.
She is not keen on the assignment, but the compensation would be worth it as it would mean becoming an envoy for the vampires and in return, her dream of owning her own lab would come to fruition. Cerissa will discover, however that her task would not be an easy one.
She had her work cut out for her. The residents of the Hill did not trust her and it did not help she was an unmated mortal. To top it all, she fell for one of the founders, Henry Bautista.
Henry is a Vampire and wine maker and he was not keen on Cerissa being on the Hill. He believes she will be a distraction, which he confirmed when he realised he was attracted to her. An attraction he could not shake no matter how he tried. Haunted by his past and burdened with guilt as a result he feels he is not deserving of love.
I enjoyed the mystery element. Someone wanted Henry and another founding vampire dead. The suspect pool was small and identifying the villain was not that simple. I managed to figure it out before its revelation.
The characters needed some more development. Descriptions of the major players’ backgrounds were lacking. It would have been nice to have more information on Cerissa’s heritage and that of the other major players. I would love to have more insight about the Lux. What made them different from humans and what abilities they possessed? I love the racial diversity featured in the story.
I believe this is a great start to what appears to be a fantastic Urban Fantasy series. The unique plot and world building pulled me in and held me captive from start to finish. The pacing was ok mostly as there were parts of the story that dragged, but this did not disrupt my enjoyment.
The story ended without a resolution to the reason Cerissa went undercover. I hope will get answers to all questions raised in book two.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall a good read and I am looking forward to dive further into this unique world.
October 29, 2017
This book as some excellently original concept. Cerissa is our protagonist and member of a species which either angelic or alien or both - I think both - with arcane powers and technology tasked with investigating the vampires. With her own quest of wanting freedom - because her people are not allowed to live their own lives. It’s an interesting conflict and throws in her playing as a double or triple agent with all the conflicting emotions that come with that, especially as she goes more native
There’s vampire society which has other interesting elements - like a recent war that has heavily divided them, a possible resistance movement, a strict population control, blood rationing and other tension building within
Throw in some deaths and apparently someone attacking them and the ongoing difficulties and tensions caused by the very restrictive treaty after the last vampire war that sets strict limits on vampire behaviour.
So let’s use this to tell the story of… a hot guy disliking a hot woman (for not apparent reason but love stories need to begin with instadislike) but finding her surprisingly compelling and he just can’t resist her and within the space of like, what, two, three weeks he suddenly is deeply and eternally in love with her and she with him. Only he can’t because Tragic Past and he is Unsafe for her to be with. And now there are people trying to keep them apart for Reasons which don’t quite make sense but OBSTACLE is needed.
Oh and she may be an alien angel thing that may destroy all of them but he spends like 5 minutes questioning her motives before focusing more on this romance which is trying to hit bingo of shallow, rather pointless tropes. These tropes aren’t even especially well developed - Henry is sad and self-hating because of a past jealous rage which he just… gets over? I mean this has apparently shaped him and his behaviour for years.
But most glaring is just how quickly Henry mehs Cerissa’s shapeshifting alien/angel woo-wooness. Or how his business, the community, his friends all come to be so much less important to him compared to said shapeshifting alien/angel. Even when he becomes aware that, at least on some level, she has a mandate to investigate vampires (and, one would hope, realises that it’s a step from “investigating” to doing something once you have the results) he seems relatively indifferent. We opened with quite a lot of detail looking at wine since this is Henry’s business… and that just vanishes. We discuss Cerissa‘s plan to open a lab and why this is important to her and for her plans for vampires and her own freedom… or the very nature of the low blood supply the vampires are dealing with: and then we just lose all of it.
This is my overwhelming, all consuming issue with this book - it creates a really original concept, it creates a very original character. It introduces excellent additions like an actual business (a business! Yes, supernatural beings that don’t just have money appear from nowhere or aren’t private investigators!) science, ethics of cloning and a whole lot more of interesting unique elements. And then what does it do? Pretty much neglect all of these excellent elements and focus on a romance that is a collection of rather tiresome tropes, few of them really developed or actually gelling well with the characters or showing them in a great light.
We also have some good diversity with more interesting potential from there: including Cerissa being South Asian and having a very different viewpoint from the rest of her species because she has been so influenced by her human father (which is why I’m a little disappointed we didn’t look at more of how her culture influenced and shaped her). Tig, the chief of police is a Black woman whose human life as a Massai shaped her culture and attitudes (honestly, I’m not even remotely informed enough to comment here because I don’t know the culture. There is a sense that it shapes her considerably but equally there is a little sense of “noble savage” and exoticism as well). She also has a complex and interesting, meaningful relationship with her deputy, Jayden, a Black man. She plays an excellent role in investigating the attacks and oh how I wish the focus on this had been greater.
Henry is latino, Mexican who mentions his history during Conquistador Mexico as a man of mixed indigenous and Spanish ancestry which also affected his history and attitudes. There’s a lot of racial diversity here among several prominent characters.
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There’s vampire society which has other interesting elements - like a recent war that has heavily divided them, a possible resistance movement, a strict population control, blood rationing and other tension building within
Throw in some deaths and apparently someone attacking them and the ongoing difficulties and tensions caused by the very restrictive treaty after the last vampire war that sets strict limits on vampire behaviour.
So let’s use this to tell the story of… a hot guy disliking a hot woman (for not apparent reason but love stories need to begin with instadislike) but finding her surprisingly compelling and he just can’t resist her and within the space of like, what, two, three weeks he suddenly is deeply and eternally in love with her and she with him. Only he can’t because Tragic Past and he is Unsafe for her to be with. And now there are people trying to keep them apart for Reasons which don’t quite make sense but OBSTACLE is needed.
Oh and she may be an alien angel thing that may destroy all of them but he spends like 5 minutes questioning her motives before focusing more on this romance which is trying to hit bingo of shallow, rather pointless tropes. These tropes aren’t even especially well developed - Henry is sad and self-hating because of a past jealous rage which he just… gets over? I mean this has apparently shaped him and his behaviour for years.
But most glaring is just how quickly Henry mehs Cerissa’s shapeshifting alien/angel woo-wooness. Or how his business, the community, his friends all come to be so much less important to him compared to said shapeshifting alien/angel. Even when he becomes aware that, at least on some level, she has a mandate to investigate vampires (and, one would hope, realises that it’s a step from “investigating” to doing something once you have the results) he seems relatively indifferent. We opened with quite a lot of detail looking at wine since this is Henry’s business… and that just vanishes. We discuss Cerissa‘s plan to open a lab and why this is important to her and for her plans for vampires and her own freedom… or the very nature of the low blood supply the vampires are dealing with: and then we just lose all of it.
This is my overwhelming, all consuming issue with this book - it creates a really original concept, it creates a very original character. It introduces excellent additions like an actual business (a business! Yes, supernatural beings that don’t just have money appear from nowhere or aren’t private investigators!) science, ethics of cloning and a whole lot more of interesting unique elements. And then what does it do? Pretty much neglect all of these excellent elements and focus on a romance that is a collection of rather tiresome tropes, few of them really developed or actually gelling well with the characters or showing them in a great light.
We also have some good diversity with more interesting potential from there: including Cerissa being South Asian and having a very different viewpoint from the rest of her species because she has been so influenced by her human father (which is why I’m a little disappointed we didn’t look at more of how her culture influenced and shaped her). Tig, the chief of police is a Black woman whose human life as a Massai shaped her culture and attitudes (honestly, I’m not even remotely informed enough to comment here because I don’t know the culture. There is a sense that it shapes her considerably but equally there is a little sense of “noble savage” and exoticism as well). She also has a complex and interesting, meaningful relationship with her deputy, Jayden, a Black man. She plays an excellent role in investigating the attacks and oh how I wish the focus on this had been greater.
Henry is latino, Mexican who mentions his history during Conquistador Mexico as a man of mixed indigenous and Spanish ancestry which also affected his history and attitudes. There’s a lot of racial diversity here among several prominent characters.
Read More
April 6, 2017
Dr Cerissa Patel a scientist. Ordered into spying on the vampires for her people under the guise of an envoy. Henry Bautista a vampire, a very old vampire. A vintner and one who has a great palette for wine making. What starts out as a way to keep Henry keep a secret morphs into something more!
The attempts to kill two vampires, Henry and his old friend Yacov, puts suspicion onto Cerissa. Even when she is hurt saving one of the one of them it doesn't ease the way she is seen by some of the residents. The Hill is put on alert and the rule of two engaged. The plot had me thinking I know who was doing the deadly deeds but I was wrong and the twist in the end was one I really didn't see coming.
Dark Wine at Midnight isn't a story I would have normally picked up to read. Although I have read books with vampire cameos the whole blood sucking evil aura surrounding the old vampire stories never really sparked an interest. I read this as a favour for an honest review!
To start I was very sceptic, why am I reading this, why did I agree to it! Well...I was surprised...very pleasantly surprised...it got to the stage where I couldn't wait for my breaks or to get home to read some more. Like looking into the eyes of a vampire, I was lost! Good plot, great characters , plenty of suspense!
Great start to a series and one I am looking forward to reading very much
The attempts to kill two vampires, Henry and his old friend Yacov, puts suspicion onto Cerissa. Even when she is hurt saving one of the one of them it doesn't ease the way she is seen by some of the residents. The Hill is put on alert and the rule of two engaged. The plot had me thinking I know who was doing the deadly deeds but I was wrong and the twist in the end was one I really didn't see coming.
Dark Wine at Midnight isn't a story I would have normally picked up to read. Although I have read books with vampire cameos the whole blood sucking evil aura surrounding the old vampire stories never really sparked an interest. I read this as a favour for an honest review!
To start I was very sceptic, why am I reading this, why did I agree to it! Well...I was surprised...very pleasantly surprised...it got to the stage where I couldn't wait for my breaks or to get home to read some more. Like looking into the eyes of a vampire, I was lost! Good plot, great characters , plenty of suspense!
Great start to a series and one I am looking forward to reading very much
May 14, 2022
What an amazing story. Action, suspense, mystery and more to keep you wanting another in this amazing series of many more to come.
July 13, 2019
This is a very well-written and crafted story about forbidden love. Cerissa is a wonderful heroine, working hard to make life easier for vampires, which will, in turn, make life easier and safer for mortals. She is on a mission and has no intention of falling in love, but Henry Bautista is too much of a gentleman for her to ignore.
This is a very suspenseful story with many impediments that Cerissa has to handle. The characters have many reasons not to trust each other, but they go forward with much maturity. I enjoyed that VERY much.
Their love for each other is very true, very steamy and very romantic. I loved all of their scenes together.
The mystery part of this story kept me guessing throughout. The author weaves a very intricate plot, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I enjoyed the first book in this series and look forward to the rest. Henry and Cerissa's love is very strong and is tested a great deal. It was a great book.
This is a very suspenseful story with many impediments that Cerissa has to handle. The characters have many reasons not to trust each other, but they go forward with much maturity. I enjoyed that VERY much.
Their love for each other is very true, very steamy and very romantic. I loved all of their scenes together.
The mystery part of this story kept me guessing throughout. The author weaves a very intricate plot, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I enjoyed the first book in this series and look forward to the rest. Henry and Cerissa's love is very strong and is tested a great deal. It was a great book.
July 23, 2017
I don’t usually read this genre but I enjoyed this. The author has set up an intriguing supernatural world and filled it with interesting characters (and species!) I enjoyed the premise and was hooked by the mystery elements in the plot. It builds nicely to a satisfying conclusion and I devoured the last 18% in one sitting because I simply had to know who the hooded figure was!
February 4, 2021
DNF at 78%. Really disliked the main character (h). Zero confidence. 200 years old and she acts like a timid virgin teenager (even though she isn’t a virgin). And not just about sex, but freakn everything makes her timid and doubting herself and people. The book moved too slow for me too. It’s a good plot and good writing, but just not for me.
June 3, 2017
3.5/5.0
“Dark Wine at Midnight” is the start of an exciting new series.
Read full review in the 2017 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Dark Wine at Midnight” is the start of an exciting new series.
Read full review in the 2017 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 28, 2019
This is not your typical vampire read! Filled with murder, suspense, mystery, intrigue, this is an exclusive vampire community set in a vineyard and has a fab storyline and fab characters! A great paranormal romance that will grab you from the start and not let you go!
January 23, 2021
Great plot and characters
I read this book because so many reviewers had written that they enjoyed it immensely despite not normally liking vampire/paranormal genre novels. I have now solidly joined that group with an added caveat. Not only do I not usually go for vampire novels, I’m also not a huge fan of romance novels. I like romance a lot, as a concept, but I find most romance genre books scare me! And romance with a vampire? Usually bad news involving hunting and dominating with the whole relationship based on lust and sex appeal.
So this book. What’s different about it?
1. A great mystery to solve. More than one actually.
2. A look into the social construct of vampire society with a tease into the ethics involved in their societal rules. They were dealt with (by the author) as a different culture to study.
3. The mix of ethnic backgrounds and diverse people—complete with accurate behaviour based on their individual cultures.
4. The inclusion of short vampires and different shapes ones. They stayed as they were when they were turned. The author took into account that nutrition was not always ideal in the past.
5. The heroine was actually phenomenal enough to capture the hero’s attention. (You’ll find out why if you read it. I’m not giving it away.) Aren’t you tired of romance books where the girl gets the best male in the whole world for a reason you can’t quite get? She has a nice set of boobs maybe? She’s the only one who doesn’t laugh at his jokes? Or hit on him? Or follow him around? Seriously?? This heroine IS NOT LIKE THAT. She’s the real deal. The great catch. But not perfect either. You’ll see.
6. The personalities are unique and the characters stay in character.
I’m really pleasantly surprised by this author. Two thumbs up 👍🏻👍🏻
I read this book because so many reviewers had written that they enjoyed it immensely despite not normally liking vampire/paranormal genre novels. I have now solidly joined that group with an added caveat. Not only do I not usually go for vampire novels, I’m also not a huge fan of romance novels. I like romance a lot, as a concept, but I find most romance genre books scare me! And romance with a vampire? Usually bad news involving hunting and dominating with the whole relationship based on lust and sex appeal.
So this book. What’s different about it?
1. A great mystery to solve. More than one actually.
2. A look into the social construct of vampire society with a tease into the ethics involved in their societal rules. They were dealt with (by the author) as a different culture to study.
3. The mix of ethnic backgrounds and diverse people—complete with accurate behaviour based on their individual cultures.
4. The inclusion of short vampires and different shapes ones. They stayed as they were when they were turned. The author took into account that nutrition was not always ideal in the past.
5. The heroine was actually phenomenal enough to capture the hero’s attention. (You’ll find out why if you read it. I’m not giving it away.) Aren’t you tired of romance books where the girl gets the best male in the whole world for a reason you can’t quite get? She has a nice set of boobs maybe? She’s the only one who doesn’t laugh at his jokes? Or hit on him? Or follow him around? Seriously?? This heroine IS NOT LIKE THAT. She’s the real deal. The great catch. But not perfect either. You’ll see.
6. The personalities are unique and the characters stay in character.
I’m really pleasantly surprised by this author. Two thumbs up 👍🏻👍🏻
May 12, 2017
“The Lux had an old adage: With time, truth is revealed. She just hoped they had enough time to learn the truth.”
In her debut paranormal romance novel, Jenna Barwin’s "Dark Wine at Midnight" is overwhelmingly seductive with an aura of mystery and suspense. Enticing and surreptitious, "Dark Wine at Midnight" leaves readers completely speechless at the twists and turns Barwin takes us on this urban fantasy journey. Will Cerissa be able to uncover the secrets among the residents of the Sierra Escondida (a.k.a. The Hill) community? Can she trust Henry with her innermost secrets?
---May Contain Spoilers---
A little while ago, I was given the great pleasure of being asked to review an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) on an urban fantasy vampire series. If you don’t already know, I’m a huge fan of supernatural and urban fantasy novels! So when I was asked to write a review, I obviously couldn’t say no.
In order to respect the author’s wishes, I’m going to attempt limit spoiling any events, characters, etc. contained in the novel as much as possible. This review will simply layout what kind of content you should expect: the language, an underlining idea of the plotline, and the characters. So let’s begin with the language, shall we?
Barwin’s Dark Wine at Midnight is highly descriptive, giving readers a full picture of the scene and the characters’ actions within it. While reading, I never felt uncertain of the landscape and layout of the scene appearing before me. Honestly, I felt like I was watching a movie. Due to the descriptive yet typically easy language used throughout the novel, I found myself nearing the end of the novel extremely fast – too fast for my liking since it’s always a sad moment when a book ends…oh the woes of bookworms.
One issue regarding the language was that I found it at times overly descriptive, to the point where I began skimming some of the content. I really dislike skim reading – you end up missing small little details that later become immensely important. There were just moments of knowing too much of what the character was doing at that moment in time.
Not only is the text fairly descriptive, but the story itself is rather intricate. At first, I thought the story was simply about a girl spy going undercover and eventually falling in love. Well, I was completely and utterly wrong! Dark Wine at Midnight has an amazing amount of layers and plot-lines to it! Barwin did a remarkable job divulging into a number of different stories and plot twists, eventually bringing them all together into one coherent story. It can be rather challenging to venture off into a wide amount of stories that focus on different characters throughout one story, though Barwin proves successful in this department.
A word of caution though – don’t expect to have all the answers right away! There are so many unanswered questions near the beginning of the novel:
Who are the Lux? What’s happening in the vampire community? What happened to Henry in his early years in the community?
It was excruciatingly frustrating for the novel’s exceedingly descriptive regarding setting and characters yet not in what in the bloody blazes is going on! Eventually, I realized Barwin did this deliberately; she reveals later on in the story many of the questions that began to pile up. So don’t worry, you’ll know the answers eventually. Obviously not all – this is a series after all. You’ll just have to patiently wait for the sequel.
Barwin has created a wide range of interesting and uniquely different characters, bringing to life the Sierra Escondida (also known as ‘The Hill’) community. If you enjoy having a peek into the lives of multiple characters, you should seriously read this book for that alone. Barwin gives us a glimpse into the lives of so many characters, learning about many of them in great detail. This goes beyond Cerissa and Henry, the central characters of the Hill Vampire series. What’s even more fascinating is the wealth of knowledge you receive yet the characters don’t. Readers learn specifically about the character the chapter is focusing on, knowing all of their private thoughts; however, the other characters don’t gain this access to information that the readers do. It makes for a really interesting turn of events when you know their secrets and wonder how the other characters will react when they find out…
The surreal thing for me is that this book has a few steamy scenes and a number of minor flirtatious interactions throughout the entire novel…and it didn’t bother me. I’m really not a fan of reading novels with sultry, seductive love scenes in it. With Dark Wine at Midnight, I actually felt it was both well done and necessary. The romantic, sensual scenes really made sense with the story and characters. Barwin also did an excellent job with not letting these parts of the novel take away from the overall story, remaining focused on the main plot-line. Additionally, the language used to describe these scenes wasn’t awful…Time and time again, I find a number of authors write provocative scenes in the most atrocious manner that I can’t help but gag or laugh at it. This felt different; it felt more realistic and truthful without going overboard.
There are a small number of addition points I’d like to address before concluding…
Dark Wine at Midnight is fairly linear and draws upon a number of different stories, while still being able to keep the reader focused in and alert of what’s happening…but not all the time. There were a number of times I was frustrated to the point I had to take a break…I was extremely confused with the world in which this story is set in, such as knowing the human involvement and more about these vampire communities. Even though we’re introduced to this later on, I would’ve preferred knowing some facts earlier in the book. There were points that I had to re-read some of the older chapters after I gained certain knowledge, simply in order to make a better understanding of what was happening at that time and that specific situation. I also wished there was more dialogue, for the novel focuses a lot on a characters’ thoughts and what they’re doing specifically at that moment.
For those who really enjoy romantic novels with a mix of sultry, seductive scenes – you really should read this. For those who don’t, I would still give it a chance! Mystery, thriller, action…these all await for your entertainment in Barwin’s Dark Wine at Midnight!
In her debut paranormal romance novel, Jenna Barwin’s "Dark Wine at Midnight" is overwhelmingly seductive with an aura of mystery and suspense. Enticing and surreptitious, "Dark Wine at Midnight" leaves readers completely speechless at the twists and turns Barwin takes us on this urban fantasy journey. Will Cerissa be able to uncover the secrets among the residents of the Sierra Escondida (a.k.a. The Hill) community? Can she trust Henry with her innermost secrets?
---May Contain Spoilers---
A little while ago, I was given the great pleasure of being asked to review an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) on an urban fantasy vampire series. If you don’t already know, I’m a huge fan of supernatural and urban fantasy novels! So when I was asked to write a review, I obviously couldn’t say no.
In order to respect the author’s wishes, I’m going to attempt limit spoiling any events, characters, etc. contained in the novel as much as possible. This review will simply layout what kind of content you should expect: the language, an underlining idea of the plotline, and the characters. So let’s begin with the language, shall we?
Barwin’s Dark Wine at Midnight is highly descriptive, giving readers a full picture of the scene and the characters’ actions within it. While reading, I never felt uncertain of the landscape and layout of the scene appearing before me. Honestly, I felt like I was watching a movie. Due to the descriptive yet typically easy language used throughout the novel, I found myself nearing the end of the novel extremely fast – too fast for my liking since it’s always a sad moment when a book ends…oh the woes of bookworms.
One issue regarding the language was that I found it at times overly descriptive, to the point where I began skimming some of the content. I really dislike skim reading – you end up missing small little details that later become immensely important. There were just moments of knowing too much of what the character was doing at that moment in time.
Not only is the text fairly descriptive, but the story itself is rather intricate. At first, I thought the story was simply about a girl spy going undercover and eventually falling in love. Well, I was completely and utterly wrong! Dark Wine at Midnight has an amazing amount of layers and plot-lines to it! Barwin did a remarkable job divulging into a number of different stories and plot twists, eventually bringing them all together into one coherent story. It can be rather challenging to venture off into a wide amount of stories that focus on different characters throughout one story, though Barwin proves successful in this department.
A word of caution though – don’t expect to have all the answers right away! There are so many unanswered questions near the beginning of the novel:
Who are the Lux? What’s happening in the vampire community? What happened to Henry in his early years in the community?
It was excruciatingly frustrating for the novel’s exceedingly descriptive regarding setting and characters yet not in what in the bloody blazes is going on! Eventually, I realized Barwin did this deliberately; she reveals later on in the story many of the questions that began to pile up. So don’t worry, you’ll know the answers eventually. Obviously not all – this is a series after all. You’ll just have to patiently wait for the sequel.
Barwin has created a wide range of interesting and uniquely different characters, bringing to life the Sierra Escondida (also known as ‘The Hill’) community. If you enjoy having a peek into the lives of multiple characters, you should seriously read this book for that alone. Barwin gives us a glimpse into the lives of so many characters, learning about many of them in great detail. This goes beyond Cerissa and Henry, the central characters of the Hill Vampire series. What’s even more fascinating is the wealth of knowledge you receive yet the characters don’t. Readers learn specifically about the character the chapter is focusing on, knowing all of their private thoughts; however, the other characters don’t gain this access to information that the readers do. It makes for a really interesting turn of events when you know their secrets and wonder how the other characters will react when they find out…
The surreal thing for me is that this book has a few steamy scenes and a number of minor flirtatious interactions throughout the entire novel…and it didn’t bother me. I’m really not a fan of reading novels with sultry, seductive love scenes in it. With Dark Wine at Midnight, I actually felt it was both well done and necessary. The romantic, sensual scenes really made sense with the story and characters. Barwin also did an excellent job with not letting these parts of the novel take away from the overall story, remaining focused on the main plot-line. Additionally, the language used to describe these scenes wasn’t awful…Time and time again, I find a number of authors write provocative scenes in the most atrocious manner that I can’t help but gag or laugh at it. This felt different; it felt more realistic and truthful without going overboard.
There are a small number of addition points I’d like to address before concluding…
Dark Wine at Midnight is fairly linear and draws upon a number of different stories, while still being able to keep the reader focused in and alert of what’s happening…but not all the time. There were a number of times I was frustrated to the point I had to take a break…I was extremely confused with the world in which this story is set in, such as knowing the human involvement and more about these vampire communities. Even though we’re introduced to this later on, I would’ve preferred knowing some facts earlier in the book. There were points that I had to re-read some of the older chapters after I gained certain knowledge, simply in order to make a better understanding of what was happening at that time and that specific situation. I also wished there was more dialogue, for the novel focuses a lot on a characters’ thoughts and what they’re doing specifically at that moment.
For those who really enjoy romantic novels with a mix of sultry, seductive scenes – you really should read this. For those who don’t, I would still give it a chance! Mystery, thriller, action…these all await for your entertainment in Barwin’s Dark Wine at Midnight!
June 8, 2017
I won this book on Goodreads giveaways......
This story started out slow for me. Cerrisa is sent to a vampire community to try to get investors for her new lab and to spy on the vampires. She is a scientist who is making human clones for their blood so the vampires feed off of them instead of humans, right now the vampires are getting their blood from the blood bank in bags that they have to warm up.
the story started to grab my attention when she went to the casino and saw Henry and they instantly were drawn to each other. I was completely hooked on the story when Cerrisa took a bullet for Henry. I discovered then that Cerrisa wasnt a human after all, she is a LUX { I dont know what that is} she has to eat alot to keep her energy to heal herself and to keep looking like a human, but when she wants to be herself she goes and hides and morphs into who she really is. She has blue skin and large Wings that almost touch the ground. { not sure if she is a fairy or Angell} Im trying to picture this, so the creatures from the movie AVATAR come to mind.
So we have Cerrisa who is this blue being with wings that can also morph into a cougar who eats like a wearwolf who mates with Henry who is a vampire that can change into a wolf as well. cant imagine what kind of kids would come from that combination.
I ended up really enjoying this story so im glad i stuck with it and i look forward to the next part so i can see who put the hit out on Henry. also interested to see if Cerissa is going to show Henry what she really looks like.
the only negative i have is that it takes a while to get into the story, a bit boring at first. I would fix that, otherwise once your attention is grabbed its a good read. thanks for selecting me to win your book.
This story started out slow for me. Cerrisa is sent to a vampire community to try to get investors for her new lab and to spy on the vampires. She is a scientist who is making human clones for their blood so the vampires feed off of them instead of humans, right now the vampires are getting their blood from the blood bank in bags that they have to warm up.
the story started to grab my attention when she went to the casino and saw Henry and they instantly were drawn to each other. I was completely hooked on the story when Cerrisa took a bullet for Henry. I discovered then that Cerrisa wasnt a human after all, she is a LUX { I dont know what that is} she has to eat alot to keep her energy to heal herself and to keep looking like a human, but when she wants to be herself she goes and hides and morphs into who she really is. She has blue skin and large Wings that almost touch the ground. { not sure if she is a fairy or Angell} Im trying to picture this, so the creatures from the movie AVATAR come to mind.
So we have Cerrisa who is this blue being with wings that can also morph into a cougar who eats like a wearwolf who mates with Henry who is a vampire that can change into a wolf as well. cant imagine what kind of kids would come from that combination.
I ended up really enjoying this story so im glad i stuck with it and i look forward to the next part so i can see who put the hit out on Henry. also interested to see if Cerissa is going to show Henry what she really looks like.
the only negative i have is that it takes a while to get into the story, a bit boring at first. I would fix that, otherwise once your attention is grabbed its a good read. thanks for selecting me to win your book.
March 6, 2022
A Paranormal Romance With a Plot! Can you believe it?!
The first in a series of vampire romance novels in the Dark Wine series, this is a paranormal romance novel with a plot! A real, actual plot! (I can't tell you how many of these I have read where the romance is the plot, and it's so flat!) This was refreshing because the author took time to build a world, and then took the time to develop a plot and characters.... and then weave an actual romantic story around that plot!
Universe building is always difficult-- especially in a genre where there are already so many preconceived notions of how vampires should be written. This story takes the boring vampire story and weaves into it a few twists and other developments that bring the trope vampire story into a more engaging realm. I will admit that not every reader may enjoy these changes as I did... but it's worth checking out this first installment of the series to see.
This is not a fast-paced, tawdry romance. It reads more like a sci-fi novel with some sex and romance. But, the plot has elements of a basic romance that can't be denied-- for example the energetic pull between the two main characters who first avoid one another and then are drawn together. This novel had some subplot with the overly attached other vampire... and the backstory between the main character and Leopold... and how that effected the plot. It was a refreshing change from all the paranormal romance novels out there.
Some might call this a "slow burn", but I call it a book with plot. A good start to a series... and a somewhat satisfying story.
The first in a series of vampire romance novels in the Dark Wine series, this is a paranormal romance novel with a plot! A real, actual plot! (I can't tell you how many of these I have read where the romance is the plot, and it's so flat!) This was refreshing because the author took time to build a world, and then took the time to develop a plot and characters.... and then weave an actual romantic story around that plot!
Universe building is always difficult-- especially in a genre where there are already so many preconceived notions of how vampires should be written. This story takes the boring vampire story and weaves into it a few twists and other developments that bring the trope vampire story into a more engaging realm. I will admit that not every reader may enjoy these changes as I did... but it's worth checking out this first installment of the series to see.
This is not a fast-paced, tawdry romance. It reads more like a sci-fi novel with some sex and romance. But, the plot has elements of a basic romance that can't be denied-- for example the energetic pull between the two main characters who first avoid one another and then are drawn together. This novel had some subplot with the overly attached other vampire... and the backstory between the main character and Leopold... and how that effected the plot. It was a refreshing change from all the paranormal romance novels out there.
Some might call this a "slow burn", but I call it a book with plot. A good start to a series... and a somewhat satisfying story.
January 9, 2024
Henry & Cerissa: Definitely An Odd Couple 5 stars!!
This was my first time reading a Jenna Barwin book and I am pleasantly pleased! This is definitely different from other vampire books I've read and it gave a different spin on vampires that I love.
In DARK WINE AT MIDNIGHT, Cerissa is an envoy to a vampire who is trying to open a laboratory to conduct studies in a gated community where vampires live with their human mates in seclusion. Cerissa is granted access to the community as a means to gain sponsorship support for the laboratory to be built from the Council of the community. There she meets one of the founders, Enrique (Henry for short).
Henry doesn't want anything to do with Cerissa or her lab. However, he may feel about her or her project, he cannot help the pull he feels towards her. However, Cerissa is hiding a secret and her motive for entering the territory and wanting to settle there may have more to do with her own personal reasons than just building a lab.
This book was definitely different as it had a dystopian feel to it. There is a lot of political shenanigans in this book, including an intriguing mystery surrounding its residents. This story contains very rich characters, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series to pick up on where this cliffy left off.
Happy reading!
This was my first time reading a Jenna Barwin book and I am pleasantly pleased! This is definitely different from other vampire books I've read and it gave a different spin on vampires that I love.
In DARK WINE AT MIDNIGHT, Cerissa is an envoy to a vampire who is trying to open a laboratory to conduct studies in a gated community where vampires live with their human mates in seclusion. Cerissa is granted access to the community as a means to gain sponsorship support for the laboratory to be built from the Council of the community. There she meets one of the founders, Enrique (Henry for short).
Henry doesn't want anything to do with Cerissa or her lab. However, he may feel about her or her project, he cannot help the pull he feels towards her. However, Cerissa is hiding a secret and her motive for entering the territory and wanting to settle there may have more to do with her own personal reasons than just building a lab.
This book was definitely different as it had a dystopian feel to it. There is a lot of political shenanigans in this book, including an intriguing mystery surrounding its residents. This story contains very rich characters, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series to pick up on where this cliffy left off.
Happy reading!
January 23, 2023
DNF. I stopped when the immature themes and events and heroine just go too much to bear. She goes to a room full of vampires. When one tries to bite her, she's more worried about the stranger leaving.
Then another grabs and kisses her and she ignores it as if it didn't even happen. The stranger though, on the other hand, accuses her about this, when they've never even spoke before this happening?! Like he was jealous?! Really? He just met her!
She ran outside to invite him inside? A stranger she has never met?
And that just after she made a mess of her assignment (by CHEATING in a card game), one vampire got angry and tried to bite her, another kissed her and this man then accuses her of what... wooing them with her "blood"? It's not their lack of control making them want to bite and kiss, it's her fault!!
What, should she have emptied herself of blood before entering vampire territory?! Should a woman cut off her breasts just in case men can't handle being "wooed" by it? What utter bs. Never, EVER blame the victim if the perp couldn't control himself/herself. And never, EVER say angry, demeaning words, blaming the victim!! And sell this as "romance"!
I can't stand such immature trope.
Then another grabs and kisses her and she ignores it as if it didn't even happen. The stranger though, on the other hand, accuses her about this, when they've never even spoke before this happening?! Like he was jealous?! Really? He just met her!
She ran outside to invite him inside? A stranger she has never met?
And that just after she made a mess of her assignment (by CHEATING in a card game), one vampire got angry and tried to bite her, another kissed her and this man then accuses her of what... wooing them with her "blood"? It's not their lack of control making them want to bite and kiss, it's her fault!!
What, should she have emptied herself of blood before entering vampire territory?! Should a woman cut off her breasts just in case men can't handle being "wooed" by it? What utter bs. Never, EVER blame the victim if the perp couldn't control himself/herself. And never, EVER say angry, demeaning words, blaming the victim!! And sell this as "romance"!
I can't stand such immature trope.
November 28, 2017
Jenna Barwin is a new author to me, but I have to say she has piqued my interest with her twist on the world of humans, vampires, and...
I will admit I felt I was slogging through the beginning - a little slow (hence the score of 4) - but it had a lot of information to get us through!
Each race of beings have their own rules, laws, challenges, discontents, secrets, desires.
Dr Cerissa Patel (who has her own secrets!) comes into this vampire community to try to gain favor to build her biologics lab there. There is an involved hierarchy she, and we the reader, must learn to navigate.
Henry is one of the founders. There is definitely more to Henry than meets the eye. And even though Cerissa is not there to find a mate, she and Henry are drawn to each other.
Even the side characters are fascinating and pull you in to wanting to learn more about them and their society.
There are twists, there is intrigue and murder, and...there is a cliffhanger, so be prepared. While we get some answers, others are left to be discovered. A tantalizing tale that is proving to be fascinating
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this
I will admit I felt I was slogging through the beginning - a little slow (hence the score of 4) - but it had a lot of information to get us through!
Each race of beings have their own rules, laws, challenges, discontents, secrets, desires.
Dr Cerissa Patel (who has her own secrets!) comes into this vampire community to try to gain favor to build her biologics lab there. There is an involved hierarchy she, and we the reader, must learn to navigate.
Henry is one of the founders. There is definitely more to Henry than meets the eye. And even though Cerissa is not there to find a mate, she and Henry are drawn to each other.
Even the side characters are fascinating and pull you in to wanting to learn more about them and their society.
There are twists, there is intrigue and murder, and...there is a cliffhanger, so be prepared. While we get some answers, others are left to be discovered. A tantalizing tale that is proving to be fascinating
I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this
November 30, 2017
Not a stand alone but a good read!
I received this as an ARC and volunteered to review this novel.
This is the first time I've read Jenna Bars in and it took me a bit to get the hang of her writing style but once I had it, I was hooked! I was drawn deep into this world with paranormal people. While this was a normal romance novel-he has a secret, she has a secret, it was very originally done. And the side stories, there are multiple, set up sequels nicely. While I enjoyed the story very much, I could not wait to find out what happened to Henry, the ending left me completely unsatisfied. It truly felt like there was no completion to the story and it was simply a set up for the next book. The next book isn't available yet, and I'm not sure I'll still feel the need to know what happens. Personally, I prefer a series of stand alone books that carry the same characters. So while this is a good book with an original concept and was a pleasure to read, it's not exactly my cup of tea. But it's worth the read!
I received this as an ARC and volunteered to review this novel.
This is the first time I've read Jenna Bars in and it took me a bit to get the hang of her writing style but once I had it, I was hooked! I was drawn deep into this world with paranormal people. While this was a normal romance novel-he has a secret, she has a secret, it was very originally done. And the side stories, there are multiple, set up sequels nicely. While I enjoyed the story very much, I could not wait to find out what happened to Henry, the ending left me completely unsatisfied. It truly felt like there was no completion to the story and it was simply a set up for the next book. The next book isn't available yet, and I'm not sure I'll still feel the need to know what happens. Personally, I prefer a series of stand alone books that carry the same characters. So while this is a good book with an original concept and was a pleasure to read, it's not exactly my cup of tea. But it's worth the read!
June 2, 2023
So the book is pretty good, don't get me wrong, but the relationship is kind of not making sense to me. I don't know if later books will explain but I think that for them to be so deeply in love just doesn't resonate with me. It's the only thing throwing me off when I read. I'm more of a slow burn person and for Henry to be so enamored so early on doesn't sit right with me like they may not romantically make it. Maybe it's just me but I wanted Cerissa to be tougher to crack. Also is Anne-Louise going to be a problem because I don't like the idea of her trying to butt in after not wanting him all this time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2018
A dark sip of supernatural intrigue. Cerissa comes to the Hill vampire community looking for investors in her new company. She meets Henry and the attraction is fast and fierce. As an unmated human she is courted and chased by several unmated males, but she only has eyes for Henry. Someone is trying to kill Henry and some of the other vampires. Some think Cerissa is the culprit, but she has a deeper secret, a deeper agenda. Will Henry be able to take Cerissa to mate? Or will his love for her cost him his long life?
December 2, 2021
She's no angel
Being a woman who has dealt with her share of "good old boy" politics during my life, it was interesting to observe the same dynamics with vampires and mortals in their own communities. The developing love story is very compelling and one I will continue to follow. The other characters are both intriguing and irritating which is the way they are written. If you want to strangle or beat a character, it is because Jenna wrote and developed them so well. I look forward to the next book.
Being a woman who has dealt with her share of "good old boy" politics during my life, it was interesting to observe the same dynamics with vampires and mortals in their own communities. The developing love story is very compelling and one I will continue to follow. The other characters are both intriguing and irritating which is the way they are written. If you want to strangle or beat a character, it is because Jenna wrote and developed them so well. I look forward to the next book.
April 5, 2023
Good first book in the series.
Mystery, action, and vampires. I enjoyed this story. Cerissa is strong, determined and smart. Will she be able to get funding for her laboratory to make fresh cloned blood for vampires? Cerissa and Henry have good chemistry. Both have sad pasts. I like the plot which contains supernatural elements, and a mystery of murder attempts. There are rumors of vampires who want to enslave mortals. I like how the author gives details of the politics of the vampire community. I will be reading the rest of the series.
Mystery, action, and vampires. I enjoyed this story. Cerissa is strong, determined and smart. Will she be able to get funding for her laboratory to make fresh cloned blood for vampires? Cerissa and Henry have good chemistry. Both have sad pasts. I like the plot which contains supernatural elements, and a mystery of murder attempts. There are rumors of vampires who want to enslave mortals. I like how the author gives details of the politics of the vampire community. I will be reading the rest of the series.
September 24, 2021
It was a slow start, but it caught my imagination and was anxious to see where the story went. Henry is the hottest vampire I've read in a long time. Cerissa is an enigma of whom we catch small glimpces into what she really is. This story is a totally differeng take on the vampire legend, and the introduction of the Lux species is intrigueing. There is suspense, romance, numerous complicated characters. I have already downloaded the next in the series.
July 16, 2024
This just wasn’t for me. I was excited to read an adult vampire pnr. The writing was ok, the excerpt was promising but something was cold. I can’t put my finger on it but I just couldn’t get attached to the story. The pace was a little slow and the events were unexciting, even the few action scenes that I read. Maybe someone would like the story, maybe it was just me but unfortunately I dnf’ed it :(
April 8, 2018
Different
This was a little different but it moved really slowly particularly the last half of the book and it was hard to stay interested. Part of me wanted to find out what would happen and the other part just kept thinking the pace needed to speed up. It seemed repetitive because it took so long to get to the point. I think the writer tried to put too much in perhaps.
This was a little different but it moved really slowly particularly the last half of the book and it was hard to stay interested. Part of me wanted to find out what would happen and the other part just kept thinking the pace needed to speed up. It seemed repetitive because it took so long to get to the point. I think the writer tried to put too much in perhaps.
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