Left for Undead: A Crimson Moon Novel

Crimson Moon #6

by L.A. Banks

Secret government operative Sasha Trudeau earned a long vacation with her lover and fellow Shadow Wolf, Hunter, after the brutal wolf-like attacks that left New Orleans in an uproar. But when her team calls with news of vampire slayings, Sasha knows it's only a matter of time before another war breaks out among the supernatural denizens of the world …The vampires are nobody's ally, but the cold-hearted deaths of their own kind make them even more bloodthirsty than usual. But who is the culprit? With the Seelie and Unseelie courts claiming innocence and aligning together, Sasha's team is at a loss. Until they discover that they're facing ancient creatures from the depths of hell itself, bent on unleashing pure fury …

Genres: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Vampires, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Romance, Werewolves

304 pages, ebook

First published September 23, 2010

About the author

A pseudonym used by Leslie Esdaile Banks, she also wrote under the names:
Leslie E. Banks
Leslie Esdaile
Leslie Esdaile Banks
Leslie Banks
Alexis Grant

L.A. Banks, a native Philadelphian, was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton undergraduate program. With many awards to her credit, Banks also held a masters of fine arts degree in film and media arts from Temple University. She lived in Philadelphia with her family until she passed away on the morning of August 2, 2011.

Visit L.A. Banks' page on the Macmillan website: http://us.macmillan.com/author/labanks

Reviews

[Seduced By Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

New in the Crimson Moon series, Left for Undead is the 6th book in the series. This series has a little bit of everything, the basis of the main characters are wolves, but we have vamps, fae, witches, and demons.

Through this series our main characters, Sasha and Hunter, have evolved in their relationship, overcoming many human problems as well as pack situations. Sasha is a strong-willed, gorgeous, female Captain in a special division of the government, she definitely can hold her own in battle, and has shadow-wolf in her blood. Hunter is our hot, sex on a stick, romantic alpha male of the North American shadow-wolf clan. Together they have become a solid defending force.

Banks only solidified them further here in Left for Undead. This is an enthralling read. I was absorbed it in from the beginning. It’s full of action. I love the twist for Hunter’s half-brother, Shogun, who we’ve known since book one. We all know I love the shifters/weres.

If you have not read the Crimson Moon series, I suggest it to you. If you’ve read it, then get out to the store and get this new book, it’s a must.

[Doris · Rating 3 out of 5]

The wolves are playing in the woods when the bad guys start to appear as shimmering shadows... unfortunately we never really learn who that particular bad guy is, although we have several allusions to whom it might be.

This story had a bit of repetitiveness to it, which made me downgrade it from a 5, but it did have a lot of good flow, mostly focused on the two main characters, Sasha and Hunter. They are torn between several groups of friends, and frenemies, trying to figure out who the bad guys are.

Sorry people - this one was predictable even if it was a really good read. Whodunnit was obvious, the reason for Sasha's having problems was obvious, the royal match-up was obvious. The only part of the story that was a surprise was the were-leopard. That was good, although a trifle gimmicky.

Overall a nice read, not a lot of sex, and not too much reveling in the bloodshed either. The vampires at the end were - wait - that was predictable too. Oh well still a nice read.

[♥ Ashleigh ♥ Contrary to popular belief I'm not actually mad! · Rating 4 out of 5]

i loved the way this ended even if it was kind of a happily ever after.

i'm pretty sure this is the last book in the series, i'm hoping not because i really would like to see how things go from here, epically with all the weddings and babies etc. and i would like to see how they go together as one giant family and where they will live and if the pack will except Crow and Jennifer now, and all that fun stuff :)

but if it is the last book in the series major BUMMER. they should of gone into more detail at the end of the book.

[Hannah Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another vague plot. There were a couple times it felt like the author was throwing in things to make the plot interesting. The ending was one of them. It was already hinted that Sasha and Hunter were still together, but they did't talk about marriage or having a family. There should have been some kind of scene of "relief" or proposal of marriage from Hunter to Sasha. Killing off the bad vampire and then going straight into an epilogue revealing Sasha and Hunter are about to get married is indefinite

[Michelle Leah Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books are always the best, & this one was no exception! The only negative...I feel like we're nearing the end of ten series, if not have reached it.
After reading L.A Banks' Vampire Huntress Legends as my 2nd real paranormal series years ago, Imwas ecstatic to find another L.A Banks series, and as expected became hooked immediately! I certainly hope she puts atbleast 1 more book out in The Crimson Moon series, & then gives us more of her very unique & very addictive writing!

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This went the way of Banks' vampire series meaning it lost all plot and character and just went through the motions of an action novel...not a very good one either. I also don't know why we got caught back up in the Shogun-Sasha issue wasn't that dealt with several books ago? Also how convenient that Amy gets all were on them instead of shogun having to explain how he would be 'forced' to cheat on her once a month... really this was the big emotional subplot?

[pianogal · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think I'm getting close to done with this series. Mostly b/c I read it the first time she wrote it as the Vampire Huntress. Oh my, we've built a new team with a seer, a tactical, a leader pair, support, etc. The only difference is now we've got wolves and fairies, instead of vampires and musicians.

I'm kinda over it...

[James · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am done with this series, and was just glad to get through it. Enough with the sappy "romance", and the scattered storyline. The main problem I had with this entire series is that I could not identify or relate to any of the characters. They are just too dysfunctional, and I would not like any of them if we met in person.

[Adrienna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it but didn't necessarily enjoyed it fully. There were some unbelievable parts especially the last chapter and jumped to the epilogue. How do you turn to stone, then be married thereafter? Did I miss something? Tears made her whole, not clear to me....also truce happened so fast, and didn't make sense how they end all so abruptly.

[Raecheliris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely captivating!!!

This is absolutely my favorite book of this series! I couldn’t put it down! All the action, drama, supernatural creatures, and storyline was so captivating!

[Johnnie Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I should have read this in order.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot thickens as oaths are crossed.

Read the book to find out who betrays who?

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secret government operative Sasha Trudeau earned a long vacation with her lover and fellow Shadow Wolf, Hunter, after the brutal wolf-like attacks that left New Orleans in an uproar. But when her team calls with news of vampire slayings, Sasha knows it’s only a matter of time before another war breaks out among the supernatural denizens of the world …

The vampires are nobody’s ally, but the cold-hearted deaths of their own kind make them even more bloodthirsty than usual. But who is the culprit? With the Seelie and Unseelie courts claiming innocence and aligning together, Sasha’s team is at a loss. Until they discover that they’re facing ancient creatures from the depths of hell itself, bent on unleashing pure fury …  

Review

Praise for L. A. Banks

UNDEAD ON ARRIVAL

“The intensity and pressure continue in the Crimson Moon series as this briskly paced supernatural thriller races toward its climactic confrontation. For these protagonists, treachery and sabotage may spell their doom; for readers, it spells hours of pure pleasure. Banks rules!”—Romantic Times BOOKreviews (4 ½ stars)

BITE THE BULLET

“The second book of Banks’electrifying werewolf saga [is] part special ops thriller, part supernatural adventure…Utilizing her storytelling flair, Banks imbues her characters with both nobility and kick-ass attitude. It doesn't get much better than this!”—Romantic Times BOOKreviews (4 1/2 stars)

“Tension, lots of action and a current of sensuality…a novel that will provide hours of electric entertainment.”—Singletitles.com

“Filled with action, this fast-moving read is as powerful as the first, and will keep fans coming back for more.”—Darque Reviews

BAD BLOOD

“Super-talented Banks launches the complex and darkly thrilling new Crimson Moon series, which bursts with treachery and supernatural chills. The plot intricacies are carefully woven throughout, but Banks piles on the danger, making this one exciting thrill ride!” —Romantic Times BOOKreviews *(4 ½ stars)*

“Banks takes on werewolves and makes them her own…A blast to read.”—Kelley Armstrong

“Shadowy, sexy, intense.”—Cheyenne McCray

“An action-packed thrill ride!” —#1 New York Times bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon 

From the Back Cover

L.A. Banks’ bestselling Crimson Moon series continues, and this time

the otherworldly threat is dangerously personal…

Secret government operative Sasha Trudeau earned a long vacation with her lover and fellow Shadow Wolf, Hunter, after the brutal wolf-like attacks that left New Orleans in an uproar. But when her team calls with news of vampire slayings, Sasha knows it’s only a matter of time before another war breaks out among the supernatural denizens of the world …

LEFT FOR UNDEAD

The vampires are nobody’s ally, but the cold-hearted deaths of their own kind make them even more bloodthirsty than usual. But who is the culprit? With the Seelie and Unseelie courts claiming innocence and aligning together, Sasha’s team is at a loss. Until they discover that they’re facing ancient creatures from the depths of hell itself, bent on unleashing pure fury …  

 “The darkly thrilling Crimson Moon series…bursts with treachery and supernatural chills.”
*—Romantic Times BOOKreviews* 

“An action-packed thrill ride!”—Sherrilyn Kenyon 

[Larissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life

Series Review!
Series Rating = 4 Stars

*SPOILER FREE

I have never hidden my extreme love for Shifters, they are my favorite supernatural race followed by Vampires, taking a close second. The Crimson Moon series by L.A. Banks is all about the Shifter/Weres for me. Well, there are Vampires, Fae and a lot of other supernatural races, but for me is still all about the Shifters LOL.

Sasha Trudeau works for the government in a super secret team of Werewolves, working to eliminate terrorists. Well, they do have all the Werewolf ups, but they do not shift, because shifting means something went wrong. Means they have been taken by the rage and they need to be put down, so not shifting is good, right? When Sasha meets a man called Hunter claiming to be a Shadow Wolf, she realizes that the supernatural world is much more than she previously thought.

I LOVE L.A. Banks’ Crimson Series! I confess that I was bit overwhelmed and confused by the world building in the beginning, but after you get a grip on all the supernatural people and the different types of wolves, you get a chance to enjoy an awesome Urban Fantasy series with non-stop action and a great romance at it’s center.

There are the Shadow wolves {Native American origin} and there are the Werewolves {Asian origin}. The Shadow wolves are able to move through the shadows and Demon realms, but they need the protection of a special stone to keep from being attacked by Demon-infected wolves. Both Shadow Wolves and Werewolves can be infected and this one of the main problems that Sasha, Hunter and her team need to deal with. The mythology behind the shifter races is so unique in my opinion and one of my favorite things about this great series.

I love the cast of characters that make up this series. From Sasha’s team, to Hunter’s pack and including their allies the Fae, Crimson Moon is full of awesome characters that bring this amazing world L.A. Banks has created.

The Crimson Moon series is sure to please many Urban Fantasy fans out there and if you haven’t read it yet, you totally should! I can’t wait for the next installment in this brilliant series!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

New in the Crimson Moon series, Left for Undead is the 6th book in the series. This series has a little bit of everything, the basis of the main characters are wolves, but we have vamps, fae, witches, and demons.

Through this series our main characters, Sasha and Hunter, have evolved in their relationship, overcoming many human problems as well as pack situations. Sasha is a strong-willed, gorgeous, female Captain in a special division of the government, she definitely can hold her own in battle, and has shadow-wolf in her blood. Hunter is our hot, sex on a stick, romantic alpha male of the North American shadow-wolf clan. Together they have become a solid defending force.

Banks only solidified them further here in Left for Undead. This is an enthralling read. I was absorbed it in from the beginning. It’s full of action. I love the twist for Hunter’s half-brother, Shogun, who we’ve known since book one. We all know I love the shifters/weres.

If you have not read the Crimson Moon series, I suggest it to you. If you’ve read it, then get out to the store and get this new book, it’s a must.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a paranormal romance. It’s a book of love and a wonderful final book to a series. I cried at the end, but in a sweet way. If a series has to end this is to way to do it. Everything and everybody came together perfectly. It’s a real final legacy from Ms. Banks to her readers.

I knew from the beginning who were being setup, but not why, so the final perpetrators were a surprise. And again the stupid vamps are in the middle. The buck keep going higher and higher in their hierarchy, it’s probably good that it ends or they’d run out of people. They are so evil, corrupt and selfish. I’m surprised they follow any kind of rule at all.

Sir Rodney’s a bit of a wimp though, letting Garth basically run things while he moons away over his queen. In fact everyone in here is a bit moony-eyed. For a while I was thinking love spell.

1)She finally thinks about her poor goldfish!

Fave Scenes: Sasha and Hunter after receiving the first silver arrow, Amy & Shogun in the dungeon, the big attack at the base and the final attack during the trial. And the Epilogue: perfect!

[TXreader Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is this the end of the Crimson Moon series? Its hard to tell since it seems everyone has gotten their "happily ever after". I still think there is more to come with Sasha being pregnant, but it looks as though all the warring factions of the paranormal world have come to a truce. This was a battle more complicated than previous ones, with double dealing demons and crazy vampires, along with the demon spirit of Lady Jun Suk. But fear not, all is well in New Orleans for now. The team and all of Sasha's wolf family are well and together with new spouses and children on the way. I hope we get to see more of Sasha's family. There is nothing more passionate than a wolf couple, whew, the heat they generate!! This series is a great read, start at the beginning, you won't be disappointed.

[Nola · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn't realise when I read the blurb that this was LA Banks or I wouldn't've bought it. There's the usual mish-mash or paranormal beings (seems a number of paranormal authors want to gain points for putting as many different entities as possible into their story - if you can fit an obscure one in you get double points.) The dialogue was bad. The occasional accent/scottish-isms of the King Fairy were silly because they weren't consisent and were poorly executed. Dissapointingly, all the characters survive. If there is another novel in the works, one can only hope this survival schtick is remedied and they are all obliterated.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wonder what L.A Banks do next in the series if she didn't pass away. I don't think she would end it there cause I know say I would love to know how both Crow Shadow and Sasha/ Hunter deal with having a kid and raising him/her in their world as well as if Jennifer (Crow Shadows wife) if she gets excepted in the pack and if the child can shift to a wolf or will he she be like Doc. So many questions a circling in my head that will never be answered but if I'm lucky enough to end up in heaven, I would love to have a conversation with L.A Banks.

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I initially struggled a little with this series. I read some and then it got forgotten on my bookshelves as other books came about. Then I decided no new series - I need to finish the one's I've started. I rediscovered this series and nearly put it down again if not for it being in a few of my reading challenges. However the last two books of this series have renewed my love of L.A. Banks and her quirky, in-depth writing style.

[Suz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm having trouble getting through this one, although I'm not sure why as I loved it's predecessors. Perhaps it's because I looked forward to it being released and then had to wait several months for an electronic version to come out after the tree-book was released. I think it deflated my motivation. I've started it and will get through it eventually and then update this review.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! Super sad this is the final book in the series! Luckily I see Ms. Banks has some new series coming out next year. The ending was absolutely perfect! I enjoyed this book from the first to the last page.
Love this! If you havent read any of L.A. Banks books ... well you need to! :o)

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I picked up of this series. Half the book was catching up with characters I didn't know. When we finally got to the real story, it felt rushed. Though there is one quote in the book that might have saved my marriage, so definitely worth a read.

[Formerly Known as Spoiler W]

Enjoyed this book though it was short. I wonder if this is the last one to the series?

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling ride with face paced action, and many undying loves of passion, could not put this down, definitely had to finish in one sitting……Ms. Banks there must be another book to this series :(

[Missyb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great group of core characters, funny, great twists. Great ending to this book, and funny.

[Elissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced full of Sasha & Hunter packed-action...wish there was more of them but sadly no :( with this being the last book in the series

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good book...looking forward to the next one!

[Cf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this series. At times, I did not care for Sasha. However, Hunter is truly loved.

I can't believe this is the last book. It was way too short.

[Feminista · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.