Anando’s abrupt disappearance after their last game left Virginia desperate for a last word from him, a last kiss, a last encounter. A forgotten cell phone provides her with the first, but it’s an unexpected ally that gives her the chance to see Anando one last time. The fire between them burns as hot as ever, and when morning comes, saying goodbye is difficult. But then, is it really goodbye?
(9300 words)
This is book 9 in a series of 10 short stories. Book 1 is available for free on the author's website. All 10 books are available individually or as one ebook / paperback. The series also has a novel-length sequel, Living Out of the Box.
Kallysten is a writer of romance novels and short stories, most of them with paranormal elements.
Her first eBooks were published by Linden Bay Romance in 2005. The defunct Venus Press subsequently published a few of her short stories. Because so many of her stories are linked as series and part of the same universe, she decided it would make sense to have them all in the same place, which is why she self-published, first with the co-op Alinar Publishing and now on her own. When she sees calls for submissions that speak to her muse, she sometimes tries for them, and was published this way by Samhain and Torquere.
There is just something about this series that draws you in and hold your attention the whole time. Kallysten really has a talent for crating a beautiful tale that easily enthralls the reader.
Virginia is a great character, being curious myself I could really relate. Anando is delicious and charismatic. Loved this pairing and they make a delightful couple.
This book is beyond steamy!! Oh holy, hot and heavy!!! Seriously sit in a tub of ice while reading this!! Do not make the mistake of reading in public. You will be blushing and feeling naughty, everywhere. Loads of smexyiness throughout, each encounter hotter than the last.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Hollie Jackson, who does an awesome read. She has a great pace that helps draw out the heat. I love the slight rasp in her tone, it makes naughty bits really sing.
I am very happy I listened to the whole series in one book rather than reading it piece mail on my Kindle. I would have hated having to wait for the next part. This book merges the story and I really could not tell how it was broken up previously.
I am not always in love with vampires, but Kallyston really makes it HAWT!! I love her style and voice as an author, I really hope she does a smexy bear shifter series to really make me happy!
Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
This part of the series focuses more on the romance of Virginia and Anando's relationship. Anando had disappeared without a word and it had taken a while for Virginia to realize that he was actually gone for real. Her heart was breaking with the loss of him. Then, one day she remembered the cell phone that they had used in their BDSM game. She still had it and when she checked it she found Anando's number. Not even hesitating, she picked up the phone and called him. When they spoke Anando made it clear that it was over, but then an unexpected turn of events happened. She was offered a way to see him once more. She just hoped it wouldn't be the last time.
I'm not sure if I'm a sap or not but I cried while ready this. Weird right? Whoever heard of crying over an erotic romance? ME that's who! Virginia and Anando are real people in my mind. They're my friends and reading about their troubles was difficult for me. Nobody wants their friends to suffer. Virginia's sense of loss was something I easily identified with.
The way that Kallysten writes evokes emotion from her readers, whether it be a wry smile or tears. Simply said? I find her work amazing.