Midnight Craving

Ravens Hollow Coven #3

by Shari Nichols

Natalya left the cold, privileged world of the Upper East Side’s vampire elite for the Raven’s Hollow police force and has never looked back.

Now for the first time in her life, she’s doing things on her own terms, living in a coven full of witches, and developing her gift as a clairvoyant. When she’s assigned to a murder case, she’s forced to work alongside her nemesis, special agent Cayden Teague of the MBI—Magickal Bureau of Investigations. The icy-blue eyed demon has been a thorn in her side from day one, challenging her, igniting her anger and her passion at every turn.

Through the course of many lifetimes, Cayden has never gotten over the brutal murder of his family and his first love. Guilt and torment have become his constant companions and keep him on a razor’s edge. After a night of hard drinking, he wakes up disoriented and finds the woman he went home with covered in a pool of blood. All the evidence points to someone the victim met online.

To lure out the killer, Natalya must become the bait. But how can she do the one thing she dreads the most without revealing her deepest, blood-drenched secret? And how far is Cayden willing to go to protect her and get to the truth?

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Romance

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2022

About the author

Sign Up for my newsletter and receive the first chapter of book one, MIDNIGHT DESIRE, in my award winning series, Raven's Hollow Coven. Enter a chance to win a free book. http://sharinicholsauthor.com/contact...
Shari Nichols grew up in a small town in Connecticut where haunted houses, ghosts and Ouija boards were common place, spurring her fascination with all things paranormal. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, going to the gym, or sharing a meal, and a cool glass of chardonnay with family and friends.
She lives in New Jersey with her husband,near her favorite park. Shari’s a member of Romance Writers of America, New Jersey Romance Writers, Liberty States Fiction Writers and Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Romance Writers.
Awards: Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer's Choice Finalist For Best Book, Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer's Choice Finalist For Best Series. New York Book Festival Honorable Mention, Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers Choice Award for Best Book, Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers Choice Award for Best Series, Golden Leaf Finalist, Golden Leaf Finalist for Best Book by A NJ author Beverley Award Winner, HOLT Medallion Finalist, Literary Titan Silver Medal winner.
Here's my interview on the City Owl Press website. http://www.cityowlpress.com/

Reviews

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

She’ll go undercover to catch a serial rapist, not realizing she’ll lose her heart instead.

I can say with 100% certainty that I have never read anything like this before. The world-building is original and takes everything you may believe about vampires and throws it out the window. Sure, there is still vampire mythology that is present in this story but for the most part, it is brand new.

The characters in this book are vibrant, realistic, and oh-so-appealing. Even the bad guys captivate with their mystery and evil ways. I appreciate the author providing enough backstory so that I wasn’t at a loss. The hero/heroine’s constant sparring added to their attraction which in turn increased my enjoyment.

The plot moves at a quick pace with a lot going on. The action scenes are well-detailed. There are modern societal topics such as dating apps, hooking up, and going undercover which I liked. When the plot takes a dark turn, then it becomes much more interesting. It turns into a gripping race against time to find the serial murderer/rapist.

The romance is surprisingly slow burn. Every time I thought they might kiss, they got interrupted. While this amped up the romantic tension, I focused on other storylines. Once things heated up, it was very romantic.

A dark paranormal romance with depth, this book is unlike any other. A true original.

My Rating: 5 stars

Reviewed by: Kris

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5/5.0

A unique paranormal suspense romance that fills the heart with healing warmth.

Read full review in the 2023 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Paranormal Kiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Midnight Craving is the 3rd book in the Ravens Hollow Coven series by Shari Nichols. This story focuses on Natalya, a vampire and Cayden, a demon. They both work in law enforcement but for different agencies. They have worked together in the past and they didn't get off on the right foot. Each of them prejudged the other and due to that they don't exactly get along well. In this book they find themselves working closely together to solve a case. In doing so they both learn that they have misjudged the other and find themselves growing closer.

I liked Midnight Craving. I aways enjoy when a couple works on solving a criminal case together, so I was happy when I saw that this book had that. I also liked how Natalya and Cayden both have hurts from their pasts that they help to heal in the other. They are both interesting characters and I liked them as a couple. Though, Cayden said some hurtful things at times, things he didn't necessarily mean, he owned up to them and apologized.

This is the first book that I have read in the series, and I had no problems following along. The only thing I found myself wanting more backstory on, that was probably in previous books, was about vampires. Natalya was a vampire, but she only thought about blood a couple times in the book, and she only drank it once in an intimate moment. She bit someone in defense a couple times but spit out the blood and was disgusted by it. She slept, she ate normal food, and she could go out in the sun. Her vampire traits were that she was stronger, fast and could drink blood. Her lack of blood drinking confused me. She didn't seem to need blood to survive. It was just something that left me wondering.

Overall, Midnight Craving is an interesting and enjoyable read. I would recommend it to fans of the series and fans of paranormal romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Natalya left her privileged life to become a cop against her wealthy vampire family’s wishes. She’s found a group of friends and a life she loves and is proud of, except for a certain pain in the butt demon she works with. Cayden is great at his job but seems to delight in poking at Natalya. They become involved in a complicated case that brings up both of their pasts and learn that there is more to each of them than they knew. The characters were very well drawn and I really enjoyed getting to know them. I missed the first two books in this series but will definitely keep an eye out for the rest.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our heroine is a vampire trying to live on her own while our hero is a demon with his own set of issues. The don't like each other much, but when they are forced to work together on a case, they learn that things are not quite like they thought. And with that admission, things start to change.

This is book three of the series. It is written as a standalone, so feel free to start here. You might be missing some background on the setting, but that is about it.

This is nominally a paranormal romance story, but I found there was a lot more to it than that. The story is well written, easy to read and chock full of action and intrigue that keep the book moving at a fast pace. The background and setting are well developed and provide a nice stage for the story. Similarly, the characters also have a nice depth to them and exhibit both the good and the bad. I actually like both of our leads and enjoy watching their relationship evolve as the story progresses. Overall, it was an excellent read and I look forward to more in the series.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.

[Jason Duby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Natalya Dubrosky and Cayden Teague have had a long habit of giving each other grief as they go about their work at the Magical Bureau of Investigation. Coming from two different worlds, (quite literally in Cayden’s case) the vampire and the demon seem to have almost nothing in common besides the job itself, at least until their mutual friends Garrett and Gillian have begun dating and Cayden’s partner Alex is getting ready to marry his witch fiancée Willow. Danger is a regular companion in their line of work but accentuated when an evil from Cayden’s past comes back to torment the demon again. Love and magic are in the air in Raven’s Hollow, but will it bring together two of the most strong and stubborn individuals in the MBI together and help them see each other for the people they truly are…before one or both of them get killed?

Shari Nichols brings us back to the supernatural world she has created around Raven’s Hollow in her third creation, Midnight Craving. Having enjoyed the first two books in this series, I have been eagerly awaiting the next chapter and the author does not disappoint with what I believe is the biggest book of the sequence. New readers might feel a little lost at the beginning, since the book doesn’t waste time getting the action going, but anyone familiar with supernatural romance will find their footing soon enough. Returning readers will be happy to catch up with a few old friends and will feel right at home.

The true test of any romance novel is in the strength of the main characters. Despite the trappings of a magical world Natalya and Cayden are very relatable, and dare I say, almost human. These two characters are both strong and flawed, and the complications that the relationship goes through as it evolves feel very believable. As much as the whole story was a pleasure to read, I did find myself wanting to read more of that relationship and the various interactions between the various characters. Nichols has a way with dialogue that shines, and it sparkles here. In conclusion, the novel has everything that I love to find in a romance novel, and I can recommend it without hesitation.

[Stephenee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third installment of the Ravens Hollow Coven and while you could technically start here and be ok, you should really read the first two books because they are amazing reads! The author weaves a tale that leaves the readers feeling like they are a part of the book. This book brings us Natalya who is finally on her own and her archenemy, Cayden of the MBI—Magickal Bureau of Investigations. Both characters are flawed and have a backstory that you can get more of in the previous books, but the reader will instantly want to become a part of their lives.

The reader will be whisked away by the magic, excitement and mystery of this one and will be unable to find a spot to stop reading the book. The real life chores and mundane of their lives are put on hold while they try to figure out who is responsible for the murder. The author leaves the reader zooming through the pages of the book alternating between never wanting it to end and needing to know what is going to happen next!

The author really continues to hold the readers attention, create a world that they never want to leave and invites them into new worlds. The plots are unique, interesting and one in which the reader can't predict. Another amazing read by author Shari Nichols - the only problem now is waiting for the next book in the series, because this reader wants more and they want it now!! Add this and the others to your TBR list - you won't be sorry!! Be prepared to find a new favorite author and series!

[Roni Denholtz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Craving is the latest paranormal romance by talented author SHari Nichols. It's chock full of exciting twists and turns, intriguing characters and sexy romance! The hero and heroine both have problems to overcome, but the sizzling attraction between them heats up the pages. And the suspense in the story really comes to life. If you love paranormals, don'yt miss this one!

[tburbr]

I found this third installment of the series to be well written and entertaining thanks to the endearing characters and engaging story line. I can't wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story about a woman accepting who she truly is, and using it to help catch a killer. What starts out as Cayden not accepting Natalya, turns in to so much more. This is a good story for my PNR loving heart and I recommend it as a great read! No Spoilers from me! I Loved It!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first visit to this series and I enjoyed the combined storyline of the paranormal mixed in with mystery and magic. The storyline kept me guessing until nearly the end.

There were issues with Natalya and Cayden’s past which they both had to accept and overcome whilst in the middle of the murders going on around them which they needed to solve. Cayden was a Demon and Natalya a Vampire and her family thought he was beneath her.

The slow build up to Natalya and Cayden’s romance with suppressed passion leaped out onto the pages and you could just feel the tension rising. Cayden was very patient and understanding in helping her to overcome her fears but once she trusted him entirely, they didn’t waste any time messing around and their passion exploded.

A really enjoyable read with a HEA would definitely recommend.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heather McCorkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A vampire and demon with emotional scars that run deep are forced to work together to catch a killer who has its sights on them. This enemies to lovers romance held me captive by making the supernatural main characters flawed and natural enough to feel real.

[Lillian Cummings · Rating 3 out of 5]

Natalya Dubrosky loves living with her friends at Raven’s Hollow but she knows that her new place is almost ready for her to move into. She never thought that her life would change so much. That night is always with her and she still needs to learn how to live on from the past. She loves her job as she gets to take down the evil that exists in the world. The problem is Cayden Teague as they just don’t seem to get on they work really well together but they just rub each other up the wrong. But that all changes when Natalya gives him some of her blood after he is attacked. They both realise that they are attracted to each other and it is time to stop fighting it. But can they really become more than friends?
Cayden has his own issues about vampires but he does know that he wants Natalya in his life and he will accept whatever she gives him for now.
Can they both track down the killer that seems to slip away after each murder? Will Natalya be able to walk away from Cayden after the case is closed?
They make a good couple both are fierce, loyal and want what is best for each other. They seem to be a calming presence in each other’s lives. Natalya hasn’t had it easy she never gives up even when her family is trying to control her life. She is brave enough to let Cayden in.
Cayden might be a fierce demon that has lost so much yet he is still willing to do whatever he can to show Natalya what love can be like.
Thank you City Owl Press for the copy. This is my voluntary review.

[wonderfullyweird88 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must confess that I embarked on this book without having read its predecessors, which may have influenced my overall experience. Nevertheless, I found myself thoroughly immersed in the captivating world crafted by the author. As a fan of crime stories, I particularly appreciated the infusion of paranormal elements, which added an intriguing twist to the narrative.

The book proved to be a gripping and thoroughly entertaining thrill ride from start to finish. Its fast-paced plot and engaging characters kept me eagerly turning the pages, craving more with each twist and turn. In hindsight, I can't help but wonder if reading the previous books in the series would have provided me with an even deeper appreciation for the author's imaginative universe.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my journey through this book and am now tempted to revisit the series from the beginning to fully immerse myself in the rich tapestry of the author's creation.
I received ana rc of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Shakera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I kind of held off reading this because it felt like the end. This series is binge-able. Nichols created characters that you can root for and feel drawn to. The world she created is unique and exciting. I even found myself drawn to the villain.

Natalya and Cayden were absolutely perfect, and I understood what motivated them. The plot was interesting, and the book was fast-paced. I enjoyed the slow burn of their romance. However, I think what I loved the most about this was they were both flawed and dealing with past hurts.

While it is a paranormal romance at its core, it has depth. There’s mystery and intrigue, but there’s also humor and romance. Although this is a standalone book, you can totally start your journey here. There’s enough backstory to follow along and not feel lost.

If this is the end of the series, while I will feel sad, I’m glad I got to go on this journey with some fantastic characters. Highly recommend the entire series.

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Natalya and Cayden are both tough and they are both vulnerable. Natalya had been abused before she was turned and still struggles with feelings of inadequacy. Cayden is just plain grumpy all the time. He and Natalya spar with each other constantly. He is so attracted to Natalya, but he has lost so much that he doesn't want to get involved with anyone. It only leads to pain. Cayden knows that the man they are searching for is an old enemy of his, but no one seems to believe him. When two women that had been close to Cayden are killed and he is blamed, he knows who killed them, but getting anyone to believe him is a problem. Can Cayden keep Natalya safe? She is a strong woman, but this killer will stop at nothing to get revenge on Cayden. He doesn't deserve a woman like Natalya, but he sure wants to give it a try.

[Susan Underbrink · Rating 3 out of 5]

A big thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is a paranormal mystery/suspense book. I found this to be a fun read. I enjoyed the characters. Natalya and Cayden (Teague) fight their attraction, and that made it even more fun to read. Very enjoyable read. 3 stars

[Natasha Stewart · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet couple. Good read. TWs but the issues discussed in this book were handled with care. Great writing. I will definitely read the next in this series.

[Josephina Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good urban fantasy with a murder mystery plotline!
I especially loved the slowburn romance, made even better by the dual POV's.
Overall great worldbuilding and story!

[Marcia - itsabookthing2021 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Midnight Craving is the 3rd installation in the Ravens Hollow Coven series and is the first novel I've read by Shari Nichols.

I thoroughly enjoyed Midnight Craving and though it is book 3 I didnt feel like I had missed a lot without reading book 1 & 2.
The plot seemed to progress on its own, so one assumes it can be read as a standalone.

Natalya is a vampire in law enforcement and clearly has some background issues that she's working out, Cayden is a demon who also works along side Natalya and also has issues, not to mention they don't like each other.

This novel throws them both together when they have to investigate a murder, with Natalie going undercover to capture the murderer.

I really liked this world that Shari Nichols created, it was full of enriching description making it feel life like.
The characters all had a depth to them and each had something that made you root for them too.
The chemistry between Natalya and Cayden just sizzled off the page.

The storyline was fascinating as it felt like a crime novel mixed heavily with the supernatural, which for me is an unusual combination.. (I usually read paranormal cozy mysteries) but one that worked immensely well.

Midnight Craving kept me guessing throughout and I really enjoyed reading.

Thank you to Shari Nichols for the eARC.
My review is my honest opinion.