What do you think?
Rate this book
Dark Mission #2
Lure of the Wicked
Naomi West was plucked from one prison and placed undercover in another: the gilded cage that is Timeless, New Seattle’s premier spa and resort, where owner Phinneas Clarke—the most seductive man Naomi has ever met—may be hiding a killer. She’s an agent of the Holy Order, trained to hunt the guilty and render justice.
But while she’s tracking down a rogue agent on a killing spree, Phin is determined to uncover her most damning—and dangerous—secrets. Whatever the cost.
But while she’s tracking down a rogue agent on a killing spree, Phin is determined to uncover her most damning—and dangerous—secrets. Whatever the cost.
387 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 1, 2011
About the author
Karina Cooper
23 books265 followersAfter writing happily ever afters for all of her friends in school, Karina Cooper eventually grew up (sort of), went to work in the real world (kind of), where she decided that making stuff up was way more fun (true!). She is the author of dark and sexy paranormal romance, steampunk urban fantasy, and writes across multiple genres with mad glee.
One part glamour, one part dork and all imagination, Karina is also a gamer, an airship captain’s wife, and a steampunk fashionista. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with a husband, a menagerie, a severe coffee habit, and a passel of adopted gamer geeks. Visit her at www.karinacooper.com, because she says so.
One part glamour, one part dork and all imagination, Karina is also a gamer, an airship captain’s wife, and a steampunk fashionista. She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with a husband, a menagerie, a severe coffee habit, and a passel of adopted gamer geeks. Visit her at www.karinacooper.com, because she says so.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 56 reviews
June 30, 2018
This has lots of action and I enjoyed it. However, I think I liked the first book more. I love strong characters, but Naomi West seemed a little too rigid for me to really like her. I'd like to read the third book to get the scoop on Caleb Leigh's story.
June 21, 2011
Naomi West is a Missionary with the Holy Order. She has been sent by the order to a posh spa, to find Carson, a rouge Missionary, and kill him. She finds a lot more than a simple mission.
Naomi is sent on an undercover assassin mission to kill a bad agent. She doesn’t like giving up her many piercings and not so nice clothes, to go undercover as an heiress. The first thing that bothered me, but seems beside the point is her many piercings. I don’t have a problem with them personally. I just thought it was strange for a person whose job is to kill witches. Usually any kind of fighter won’t have a lot because they can be used against them. At the start of the story I was massively confused of why she was just so negative, but as her history is explained it makes sense, unlike the piercings. Naomi might be ass kicking, but she was very hard to get into.
Phin I liked. Unlike the pervious male lead he didn’t do a lot of grunting. In fact he was a cute, rich, and sometimes a sensitive fellow. His mothers, Gemma and Lillian, own Timeless, the spa. They were my favorite characters next to Phin. The sexy scenes between Phin and Naomi are hot and heavy, and the strongest part of the novel. The only thing I didn’t like about Phin was how often he mentioned Naomi’s legs. I felt like ‘leggy’ was over used from the book before this one.
A lot of the plot is a little bit of a mystery for the reader, but it didn’t build a lot of suspense. Carson, the bad Missionary, is killing people, or trying to. The reader won’t know why towards the end. After reading it his choices at some points didn’t make sense to me. There is a nice deal of action, but it isn’t that strong. Things that seemed pretty important didn’t seem that important to Naomi. Instead of worrying about her mission she tends to start worrying more about her attraction to Phin. This might be because I didn’t feel deeply rooted in their relationship.
Altogether I was a little disappointed with this installment after the first one, Blood of the Wicked. The suspense was not as strong, and I had a real problem getting into the characters. Apart from that the sexy scenes are hot, and yes, very sexy. I, like Naomi, wanted to get out of the spa and see the chaos of the post-apocalyptic Seattle. Despite my misgivings I look forward to the next installment, which stars a character I didn’t expect.
-Beth (Guest Reviewer)
Naomi is sent on an undercover assassin mission to kill a bad agent. She doesn’t like giving up her many piercings and not so nice clothes, to go undercover as an heiress. The first thing that bothered me, but seems beside the point is her many piercings. I don’t have a problem with them personally. I just thought it was strange for a person whose job is to kill witches. Usually any kind of fighter won’t have a lot because they can be used against them. At the start of the story I was massively confused of why she was just so negative, but as her history is explained it makes sense, unlike the piercings. Naomi might be ass kicking, but she was very hard to get into.
Phin I liked. Unlike the pervious male lead he didn’t do a lot of grunting. In fact he was a cute, rich, and sometimes a sensitive fellow. His mothers, Gemma and Lillian, own Timeless, the spa. They were my favorite characters next to Phin. The sexy scenes between Phin and Naomi are hot and heavy, and the strongest part of the novel. The only thing I didn’t like about Phin was how often he mentioned Naomi’s legs. I felt like ‘leggy’ was over used from the book before this one.
A lot of the plot is a little bit of a mystery for the reader, but it didn’t build a lot of suspense. Carson, the bad Missionary, is killing people, or trying to. The reader won’t know why towards the end. After reading it his choices at some points didn’t make sense to me. There is a nice deal of action, but it isn’t that strong. Things that seemed pretty important didn’t seem that important to Naomi. Instead of worrying about her mission she tends to start worrying more about her attraction to Phin. This might be because I didn’t feel deeply rooted in their relationship.
Altogether I was a little disappointed with this installment after the first one, Blood of the Wicked. The suspense was not as strong, and I had a real problem getting into the characters. Apart from that the sexy scenes are hot, and yes, very sexy. I, like Naomi, wanted to get out of the spa and see the chaos of the post-apocalyptic Seattle. Despite my misgivings I look forward to the next installment, which stars a character I didn’t expect.
-Beth (Guest Reviewer)
June 21, 2011
Naomi West is a Missionary with the Holy Order. She has been sent by the order to a posh spa, to find Carson, a rouge Missionary, and kill him. She finds a lot more than a simple mission.
Naomi is sent on an undercover assassin mission to kill a bad agent. She doesn’t like giving up her many piercings and not so nice clothes, to go undercover as an heiress. The first thing that bothered me, but seems beside the point is her many piercings. I don’t have a problem with them personally. I just thought it was strange for a person whose job is to kill witches. Usually any kind of fighter won’t have a lot because they can be used against them. At the start of the story I was massively confused of why she was just so negative, but as her history is explained it makes sense, unlike the piercings. Naomi might be ass kicking, but she was very hard to get into.
Phin I liked. Unlike the previous male lead he didn’t do a lot of grunting. In fact he was a cute, rich, and sometimes a sensitive fellow. His mothers, Gemma and Lillian, own Timeless, the spa. They were my favorite characters next to Phin. The sexy scenes between Phin and Naomi are hot and heavy, and the strongest part of the novel. The only thing I didn’t like about Phin was how often he mentioned Naomi’s legs. I felt like ‘leggy’ was over used from the book before this one.
A lot of the plot is a little bit of a mystery for the reader, but it didn’t build a lot of suspense. Carson, the bad Missionary, is killing people, or trying to. The reader won’t know why towards the end. After reading it his choices at some points didn’t make sense to me. There is a nice deal of action, but it isn’t that strong. Things that seemed pretty important didn’t seem that important to Naomi. Instead of worrying about her mission she tends to start worrying more about her attraction to Phin. This might be because I didn’t feel deeply rooted in their relationship.
Altogether I was a little disappointed with this installment after the first one, Blood of the Wicked. The suspense was not as strong, and I had a real problem getting into the characters. Apart from that the sexy scenes are hot, and yes, very sexy. I, like Naomi, wanted to get out of the spa and see the chaos of the post-apocalyptic Seattle. Despite my misgivings I look forward to the next installment, which stars a character I didn’t expect.
Naomi is sent on an undercover assassin mission to kill a bad agent. She doesn’t like giving up her many piercings and not so nice clothes, to go undercover as an heiress. The first thing that bothered me, but seems beside the point is her many piercings. I don’t have a problem with them personally. I just thought it was strange for a person whose job is to kill witches. Usually any kind of fighter won’t have a lot because they can be used against them. At the start of the story I was massively confused of why she was just so negative, but as her history is explained it makes sense, unlike the piercings. Naomi might be ass kicking, but she was very hard to get into.
Phin I liked. Unlike the previous male lead he didn’t do a lot of grunting. In fact he was a cute, rich, and sometimes a sensitive fellow. His mothers, Gemma and Lillian, own Timeless, the spa. They were my favorite characters next to Phin. The sexy scenes between Phin and Naomi are hot and heavy, and the strongest part of the novel. The only thing I didn’t like about Phin was how often he mentioned Naomi’s legs. I felt like ‘leggy’ was over used from the book before this one.
A lot of the plot is a little bit of a mystery for the reader, but it didn’t build a lot of suspense. Carson, the bad Missionary, is killing people, or trying to. The reader won’t know why towards the end. After reading it his choices at some points didn’t make sense to me. There is a nice deal of action, but it isn’t that strong. Things that seemed pretty important didn’t seem that important to Naomi. Instead of worrying about her mission she tends to start worrying more about her attraction to Phin. This might be because I didn’t feel deeply rooted in their relationship.
Altogether I was a little disappointed with this installment after the first one, Blood of the Wicked. The suspense was not as strong, and I had a real problem getting into the characters. Apart from that the sexy scenes are hot, and yes, very sexy. I, like Naomi, wanted to get out of the spa and see the chaos of the post-apocalyptic Seattle. Despite my misgivings I look forward to the next installment, which stars a character I didn’t expect.
November 8, 2024
Fifty years before the events of these stories, Seattle was devasted by a massive earthquake. None saw it coming, except the witches and who could they tell and be believed?
The new Seattle was rebuilt upon the ruins, the old government was dismantled, including law enforcement. A cathedral was built and its missionaries sent out, not to protect and serve the citizens, but to hunt down (killing if necessary) witches and those who aid them.
I suggest you read these in order, each couple's story is "complete" with their novel, but the backstory continues and develops and so they read better in order.
Missionary Naomi West's partner switched sides on his last assignment, now she's undercover at Seattle's premier spa and resort, a place she finds totally uncomfortable. The owner, Phinneas Clarke, is presumed to be harboring a criminal. So why is it Phin is attracted to her and willing to introduce her to his "world" and why does she in turn feel attracted to him and trust him as well? But there is an enemy at the spa, just nobody knows he is there, who he is or why he is there.
The new Seattle was rebuilt upon the ruins, the old government was dismantled, including law enforcement. A cathedral was built and its missionaries sent out, not to protect and serve the citizens, but to hunt down (killing if necessary) witches and those who aid them.
I suggest you read these in order, each couple's story is "complete" with their novel, but the backstory continues and develops and so they read better in order.
Missionary Naomi West's partner switched sides on his last assignment, now she's undercover at Seattle's premier spa and resort, a place she finds totally uncomfortable. The owner, Phinneas Clarke, is presumed to be harboring a criminal. So why is it Phin is attracted to her and willing to introduce her to his "world" and why does she in turn feel attracted to him and trust him as well? But there is an enemy at the spa, just nobody knows he is there, who he is or why he is there.
March 29, 2025
How does a book win a five star rating from me? It has to make me laugh. It has to make me cry. This book succeeded. I loved the characters. I did not expect to love the female character as much as I did based on the first book in the series, but I fell in love with her and all of her complexities, Strengths, and frailties. This is a wonderful book. I recommend it to everyone who likes paranormal romance books with a descent amount of suspense.. at this point I plan to read the rest of the series and can’t wait for Jonas‘s story which is much later in the series as it is a much longer series than I realized. It is not a trilogy like I thought, but rather has eight books in the series. The third book is about the brother of the main character in book one the brother who is portrayed as having done such unspeakable things. I’m curious how the author will redeem him in the reader’s eyes. Stay tuned as I will review that one as well when finished.
September 8, 2024
The main character is completely insufferable. Her single personality trait is rage, which she wields as a response to literally every situation including normal interactions with the other characters. She goes out of her way to remind the reader in every single chapter that she is actually super edgy and not like other girls, by complaining about having to wear nice clothes and not having a face full of piercings while she’s undercover.
There is apparently magic, and witches, and witchcraft in the world of this book. Do we get to learn anything about it at all? No. 0/10 worldbuilding effort from the author.
I didn’t keep a tally of the times the word “hell” was used as an intensifier, an adjective, or an expletive, but it was at least once per page.
There is apparently magic, and witches, and witchcraft in the world of this book. Do we get to learn anything about it at all? No. 0/10 worldbuilding effort from the author.
I didn’t keep a tally of the times the word “hell” was used as an intensifier, an adjective, or an expletive, but it was at least once per page.
May 31, 2017
So good thought but need more steam scenes but it still a good story
March 17, 2018
Second verse, same as the first. Hurrah, for long flights and long layovers.
March 3, 2013
2.5 Stars
This book left me torn as to how to rate it. I really enjoyed its predecessor, Blood of the Wicked, and had high hopes for the next in the series. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. Lure of the Wicked begins three months after events of the previous novel with one character who was introduced before, Naomi West, and one new character, Phineas Clark. Phin runs a spa and resort with his family. Naomi goes there undercover to hunt down a rogue missionary who is believed to be hiding there. She soon figures out a lot more is going on than expected. Naomi and Phin are brought together time and again as the troubles continue to escalate.
The events that occur in this novel tie into the last one. I expected that and looked forward to seeing how the overall series plot progressed, but it seemed very little time was actually spent on the rogue missionary Naomi was supposed to be hunting down. Too many other threads of trouble got in the way. Not to mention the explanation on how the rogue fit into the big picture didn't really get explained to my satisfaction. Part of this, I'm sure, is because there is more to be learned about the plot between the church and witches as the series progresses. Yet it should be understood this book could never stand on its own and leaves more questions than answers. The ending left me rather frustrated even if the next two books are already out so I don't have to wait to learn more.
My other big issue was with Naomi West. I found her to be very hard to relate to. From the beginning she came off as cold, hard, impatient and rude. She stated numerous times that all she wanted was to go kill people and did not care for being stuck undercover at a fancy spa. Those reading this review should know that I served in the military for over a decade and deployed to Iraq twice. I totally get fighting bad guys and being trained in that type of job. Yet I never "lived" for killing people. In fact, it's been my experience that most people (minus psychopaths) don't actually enjoy taking lives. You do it because you have to. Not because it's fun and enjoyable. I know it's a common trope in urban fantasy for heros/heroines to get off on the fight. Usually I don't have a problem with it because it's fiction and meant for entertainment. I know most authors have never actually had to fight for their lives before so they tend to go to extremes with their characters. Whatever. It's normally not a problem for me. Yet with Naomi's character, she was so annoying in this regard that I had a constant urge (especially in the early parts of the book) to jump within the pages and put her out of her misery.
Thankfully, there is the saving grace of Phinneas Clark. He isn't really a tough alpha male, but the author made him just as appealing. He was the type of man a woman could dream about between his good looks and charming personality. Phin was pretty much the opposite of Naomi as far as behavior goes. Putting the two together (almost) balanced out the weaknesses of each. Phin was what got me to the half-way point so I could discover the rest of the novel was much more enjoyable. He slowly drew Naomi out of her hard shell enough so the reader could find something likeable about her. Thank God for him.
***Minor Spoiler Alert***
The only frustrating part is not enough time was spent developing the relationship to its full potential. Phin and Naomi jumped to the physical aspects rather fast (and often at the most inopportune times), but they didn't work through all their personal issues or fully commit to each other before the end. I felt cheated by this because the two won't be the main characters in the next novels so any progress they make will have to be seen through the eyes of others. I'll keep reading the series because I want to see them work things out into something more permanent (plus the overall plot has captured my interest), but I'd expected the author to at least fully resolve the romance within the novel like she did in the first.
***End Minor Spoiler Alert***
In summary, please do not consider the rating for this book to reflect that of any other novels in the series. I really enjoyed the first book and plan to continue with the next one, All Things Wicked, in the hopes that it will be better. The issues I mentioned above were annoying, but not enough to give up on the series. It is only my desire to warn anyone who is looking at this book that it might not be as good as they hoped. Then again, tastes vary, so others may not be bothered by the same things at all. I will say this much. Even if you have reservations about reading Lure of the Wicked, it has good points to help get you through it and certain events happen that will be important to know if you plan to move forward in the series. I'd recommend you at least give it a chance if you enjoyed the first novel.
This book left me torn as to how to rate it. I really enjoyed its predecessor, Blood of the Wicked, and had high hopes for the next in the series. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. Lure of the Wicked begins three months after events of the previous novel with one character who was introduced before, Naomi West, and one new character, Phineas Clark. Phin runs a spa and resort with his family. Naomi goes there undercover to hunt down a rogue missionary who is believed to be hiding there. She soon figures out a lot more is going on than expected. Naomi and Phin are brought together time and again as the troubles continue to escalate.
The events that occur in this novel tie into the last one. I expected that and looked forward to seeing how the overall series plot progressed, but it seemed very little time was actually spent on the rogue missionary Naomi was supposed to be hunting down. Too many other threads of trouble got in the way. Not to mention the explanation on how the rogue fit into the big picture didn't really get explained to my satisfaction. Part of this, I'm sure, is because there is more to be learned about the plot between the church and witches as the series progresses. Yet it should be understood this book could never stand on its own and leaves more questions than answers. The ending left me rather frustrated even if the next two books are already out so I don't have to wait to learn more.
My other big issue was with Naomi West. I found her to be very hard to relate to. From the beginning she came off as cold, hard, impatient and rude. She stated numerous times that all she wanted was to go kill people and did not care for being stuck undercover at a fancy spa. Those reading this review should know that I served in the military for over a decade and deployed to Iraq twice. I totally get fighting bad guys and being trained in that type of job. Yet I never "lived" for killing people. In fact, it's been my experience that most people (minus psychopaths) don't actually enjoy taking lives. You do it because you have to. Not because it's fun and enjoyable. I know it's a common trope in urban fantasy for heros/heroines to get off on the fight. Usually I don't have a problem with it because it's fiction and meant for entertainment. I know most authors have never actually had to fight for their lives before so they tend to go to extremes with their characters. Whatever. It's normally not a problem for me. Yet with Naomi's character, she was so annoying in this regard that I had a constant urge (especially in the early parts of the book) to jump within the pages and put her out of her misery.
Thankfully, there is the saving grace of Phinneas Clark. He isn't really a tough alpha male, but the author made him just as appealing. He was the type of man a woman could dream about between his good looks and charming personality. Phin was pretty much the opposite of Naomi as far as behavior goes. Putting the two together (almost) balanced out the weaknesses of each. Phin was what got me to the half-way point so I could discover the rest of the novel was much more enjoyable. He slowly drew Naomi out of her hard shell enough so the reader could find something likeable about her. Thank God for him.
***Minor Spoiler Alert***
The only frustrating part is not enough time was spent developing the relationship to its full potential. Phin and Naomi jumped to the physical aspects rather fast (and often at the most inopportune times), but they didn't work through all their personal issues or fully commit to each other before the end. I felt cheated by this because the two won't be the main characters in the next novels so any progress they make will have to be seen through the eyes of others. I'll keep reading the series because I want to see them work things out into something more permanent (plus the overall plot has captured my interest), but I'd expected the author to at least fully resolve the romance within the novel like she did in the first.
***End Minor Spoiler Alert***
In summary, please do not consider the rating for this book to reflect that of any other novels in the series. I really enjoyed the first book and plan to continue with the next one, All Things Wicked, in the hopes that it will be better. The issues I mentioned above were annoying, but not enough to give up on the series. It is only my desire to warn anyone who is looking at this book that it might not be as good as they hoped. Then again, tastes vary, so others may not be bothered by the same things at all. I will say this much. Even if you have reservations about reading Lure of the Wicked, it has good points to help get you through it and certain events happen that will be important to know if you plan to move forward in the series. I'd recommend you at least give it a chance if you enjoyed the first novel.
April 7, 2025
The heroine is not the warm and fuzzy type. She's a gun carrying, assassin with a bad attitude and less patience. So, when she's sent undercover to a Spa to unearth a rogue missionary, she's pissed. What the hell is she supposed to do at a spa? But unfortunately, she's the other missionary with the background sophisticated enough to be granted access, not that she's pleased with having to pretend to be a rich heiress again. Arriving at the spa, surrounded by a sickening number of pleasantries and kindness, she's also immediately called to action first in her room where a witch was waiting to kill her. And later when a predominate church figure is almost killed in the sauna. Not only is the rogue missionary, her target, hiding somewhere on the grounds but apparently the high-end spa is also harboring witches.
Meeting the hero, she considers him handsome but dismisses him as a shallow rich kid with little to no substance. And yes, the hero is composed, stoic and much more adapt with hiding his emotions than the heroine but his characterization runs deep. Not only is he the son of a lesbian marriage but he's also running a secret underground railroad to get witches to safe from the church’s prosecution. He's enchanted by the heroine despite her prickly disposition. She's fragile looking and absolutely stunning. She's also quite clearly suppressing a lot of built up rage and pain inside that makes her lash out whenever anyone shows her any kindness. And it's clear that she's something far more than a rich girl but he's dreading what. Yet that doesn't stop him from falling deeply into her spell.
The heroine in turn tries to convince herself he means nothing but still, he's managed to wiggle past her defenses and into her heart. He's the only person to ever makes her feel pretty, to make her feel wanted. He may not know that she kills people for a living and she dreads him finding out but with him, she feels a sense of peace that she's never felt before. Her bastard of a mother never loved her. Walked out on her when she was young. Her father killed himself and she discovered his body. Her best friend went rogue and chose a witch over her. All of this has added up to make her very distrusting and she acts like a wounded animal. When her mother comes to the spa and is the victim of an attack, the pain, confusion and rage built inside her comes to a boiling point.
When the hero, trying to comfort her and tell her how he loves her, becomes the target of her rage, she lashes out. Saying horrible things and doing everything in her power to convince him that it's all a lie, that she's not lovable and will never be what he needs. Still, when she learns of the attack on the spa, she's there instantly with a gun and a shutter over her heart. See, though she excels at killing and being that cold blooded machine, the fact of the matter is she doesn't want to do it anymore. She wants something more, something the hero shown her glimpse of in the brief moment they've been together. But he deserves so much more than her and even though it hurts, she has to learn to let him go.
This author truly has a gift of creating magic in her stories. Characters are always so rich and deep and the plot is always well thought out, exciting and very well written. Amazing heroine character who I identified with greatly. Her habit of being uncomfortable with compliments and not knowing how to deal with anything outside her profession made her a very compelling woman. Because it's evident that she does care, deeply, but she doesn't know how to show it. She hasn't had an easy life and to her the hero, with his happy family couldn't possibly want her. Her anguish and pain are evident in everything she does and it's why she acts the way she does. But the hero is able to see past that. Whereas she's angry and impulsive, he's cool and thoughtful. He never raises to the bait and seems to be able to sooth the wild beast that just wants to bite anyone that comes near her. He was an amazing character as well. I thought the whole book was awesome frankly. I adore this author and find her to be a gifted writer. I would love to see a continuation of this series or the beginning of something new.
Meeting the hero, she considers him handsome but dismisses him as a shallow rich kid with little to no substance. And yes, the hero is composed, stoic and much more adapt with hiding his emotions than the heroine but his characterization runs deep. Not only is he the son of a lesbian marriage but he's also running a secret underground railroad to get witches to safe from the church’s prosecution. He's enchanted by the heroine despite her prickly disposition. She's fragile looking and absolutely stunning. She's also quite clearly suppressing a lot of built up rage and pain inside that makes her lash out whenever anyone shows her any kindness. And it's clear that she's something far more than a rich girl but he's dreading what. Yet that doesn't stop him from falling deeply into her spell.
The heroine in turn tries to convince herself he means nothing but still, he's managed to wiggle past her defenses and into her heart. He's the only person to ever makes her feel pretty, to make her feel wanted. He may not know that she kills people for a living and she dreads him finding out but with him, she feels a sense of peace that she's never felt before. Her bastard of a mother never loved her. Walked out on her when she was young. Her father killed himself and she discovered his body. Her best friend went rogue and chose a witch over her. All of this has added up to make her very distrusting and she acts like a wounded animal. When her mother comes to the spa and is the victim of an attack, the pain, confusion and rage built inside her comes to a boiling point.
When the hero, trying to comfort her and tell her how he loves her, becomes the target of her rage, she lashes out. Saying horrible things and doing everything in her power to convince him that it's all a lie, that she's not lovable and will never be what he needs. Still, when she learns of the attack on the spa, she's there instantly with a gun and a shutter over her heart. See, though she excels at killing and being that cold blooded machine, the fact of the matter is she doesn't want to do it anymore. She wants something more, something the hero shown her glimpse of in the brief moment they've been together. But he deserves so much more than her and even though it hurts, she has to learn to let him go.
This author truly has a gift of creating magic in her stories. Characters are always so rich and deep and the plot is always well thought out, exciting and very well written. Amazing heroine character who I identified with greatly. Her habit of being uncomfortable with compliments and not knowing how to deal with anything outside her profession made her a very compelling woman. Because it's evident that she does care, deeply, but she doesn't know how to show it. She hasn't had an easy life and to her the hero, with his happy family couldn't possibly want her. Her anguish and pain are evident in everything she does and it's why she acts the way she does. But the hero is able to see past that. Whereas she's angry and impulsive, he's cool and thoughtful. He never raises to the bait and seems to be able to sooth the wild beast that just wants to bite anyone that comes near her. He was an amazing character as well. I thought the whole book was awesome frankly. I adore this author and find her to be a gifted writer. I would love to see a continuation of this series or the beginning of something new.
January 27, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 8TH JANUARY 2013:
RATING: 4.25 FINE PHINNEAS STARS with a DASH OF SILAS!!!
I am really enjoying this Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance series. Karina kept me entertained with peeling the layers back on Naomi West aka Naomi Ishikawa , the kickass, tough as nails missionary from Blood Of The Wicked.
In Blood Of The Wicked, Naomi is a killer who doesn’t ask questions first, she shoots first. She completely belongs to the Churches way of thinking and their mission to kill all witches, period.
In Lure Of The Wicked, Naomi is like a blank canvas , her body void of all her piercings, except for the two she kept, deposited in the one place that is so alien to her character, topside, in an exclusive high end Spa.
Naomi doesn’t know how to be girlie, she only does kickass, she wears kickass like a glove. She breathes kickass. The piercings are part of her attire. She is a killer. She doesn’t do massages, facials....until now.
There is a rogue missionary, witches need to be dealt with and she has been given the mission of sorting through Timeless and finding some answers, posing undercover.
Phinneas Clarke and his mothers, yes plural, run Timeless. I loved the scenes where Naomi is about to crack and Phin takes charge and gives her a massage. All above board people, this is a respected and above board ,high end establishment. I really liked his mothers and their relationship with Phin. He could have come across as a mummys boy, but he didn’t, as he has such respect for these two women who have raised him. He is also a whole lot of man who has a whole lot of heart.
What he does for Naomi ....
Book # 1 had the reader below ground in the dangerous Old Seattle, the broken city, buried by the earthquake. In this book we are topside , where Naomi is not comfortable, where Naomi does not fit in. By birth she deserves to fit in, but life has not been kind to Naomi. Life has broken her and even Phin is finding it hard to mend it.
Naomi only trusts herself and even that is starting to waiver. Her own emotions are playing games on her. She doesn’t want to ‘feel’. She wants to kill. It is what she is good at.
This is a character coupling that will take more than one book to fuse together, for Naomi to trust, for her to believe she is worthy of being loved.
Phin and his family have their own secrets and all hell is about to break loose.
Betrayal is a bitch.
Silas Smith gets some air time. I do love Silas. He has a gorgeous, manly personality who is so fiercely in love with Jessie. He knows how to handle Naomi, about as much as you can. He has known her a long time. He knows some of her pain.
Sometimes in life you are forced to take a good hard look at yourself and you find you don’t quite like what you see. Sometimes decisions are made for you and you just have to make the best of it, roll with it and see how it all pans out.
Looking forward to reading No Rest For The Witches # 2.5 and then onto All Things Wicked.
This was a slick read that I really enjoyed. I found myself turning the pages in this series full of hard knocks, a corrupt Church , missionaries jumping ship because power can be too inviting for those with evil on the brain.
Sometimes the least likely wind up with the power and responsibility to use wisely and for good.
Michelle
RATING: 4.25 FINE PHINNEAS STARS with a DASH OF SILAS!!!
I am really enjoying this Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance series. Karina kept me entertained with peeling the layers back on Naomi West aka Naomi Ishikawa , the kickass, tough as nails missionary from Blood Of The Wicked.
In Blood Of The Wicked, Naomi is a killer who doesn’t ask questions first, she shoots first. She completely belongs to the Churches way of thinking and their mission to kill all witches, period.
In Lure Of The Wicked, Naomi is like a blank canvas , her body void of all her piercings, except for the two she kept, deposited in the one place that is so alien to her character, topside, in an exclusive high end Spa.
Naomi doesn’t know how to be girlie, she only does kickass, she wears kickass like a glove. She breathes kickass. The piercings are part of her attire. She is a killer. She doesn’t do massages, facials....until now.
There is a rogue missionary, witches need to be dealt with and she has been given the mission of sorting through Timeless and finding some answers, posing undercover.
Phinneas Clarke and his mothers, yes plural, run Timeless. I loved the scenes where Naomi is about to crack and Phin takes charge and gives her a massage. All above board people, this is a respected and above board ,high end establishment. I really liked his mothers and their relationship with Phin. He could have come across as a mummys boy, but he didn’t, as he has such respect for these two women who have raised him. He is also a whole lot of man who has a whole lot of heart.
What he does for Naomi ....
Book # 1 had the reader below ground in the dangerous Old Seattle, the broken city, buried by the earthquake. In this book we are topside , where Naomi is not comfortable, where Naomi does not fit in. By birth she deserves to fit in, but life has not been kind to Naomi. Life has broken her and even Phin is finding it hard to mend it.
Naomi only trusts herself and even that is starting to waiver. Her own emotions are playing games on her. She doesn’t want to ‘feel’. She wants to kill. It is what she is good at.
This is a character coupling that will take more than one book to fuse together, for Naomi to trust, for her to believe she is worthy of being loved.
Phin and his family have their own secrets and all hell is about to break loose.
Betrayal is a bitch.
Silas Smith gets some air time. I do love Silas. He has a gorgeous, manly personality who is so fiercely in love with Jessie. He knows how to handle Naomi, about as much as you can. He has known her a long time. He knows some of her pain.
Sometimes in life you are forced to take a good hard look at yourself and you find you don’t quite like what you see. Sometimes decisions are made for you and you just have to make the best of it, roll with it and see how it all pans out.
Looking forward to reading No Rest For The Witches # 2.5 and then onto All Things Wicked.
This was a slick read that I really enjoyed. I found myself turning the pages in this series full of hard knocks, a corrupt Church , missionaries jumping ship because power can be too inviting for those with evil on the brain.
Sometimes the least likely wind up with the power and responsibility to use wisely and for good.
Michelle
January 27, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 8TH JANUARY 2013:
RATING: 4.25 FINE PHINNEAS STARS with a DASH OF SILAS!!!
I am really enjoying this Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance series. Karina kept me entertained with peeling the layers back on Naomi West aka Naomi Ishikawa , the kickass, tough as nails missionary from Blood Of The Wicked.
In Blood Of The Wicked, Naomi is a killer who doesn’t ask questions first, she shoots first. She completely belongs to the Churches way of thinking and their mission to kill all witches, period.
In Lure Of The Wicked, Naomi is like a blank canvas , her body void of all her piercings, except for the two she kept, deposited in the one place that is so alien to her character, topside, in an exclusive high end Spa.
Naomi doesn’t know how to be girlie, she only does kickass, she wears kickass like a glove. She breathes kickass. The piercings are part of her attire. She is a killer. She doesn’t do massages, facials....until now.
There is a rogue missionary, witches need to be dealt with and she has been given the mission of sorting through Timeless and finding some answers, posing undercover.
Phinneas Clarke and his mothers, yes plural, run Timeless. I loved the scenes where Naomi is about to crack and Phin takes charge and gives her a massage. All above board people, this is a respected and above board ,high end establishment. I really liked his mothers and their relationship with Phin. He could have come across as a mummys boy, but he didn’t, as he has such respect for these two women who have raised him. He is also a whole lot of man who has a whole lot of heart.
What he does for Naomi ....
Book # 1 had the reader below ground in the dangerous Old Seattle, the broken city, buried by the earthquake. In this book we are topside , where Naomi is not comfortable, where Naomi does not fit in. By birth she deserves to fit in, but life has not been kind to Naomi. Life has broken her and even Phin is finding it hard to mend it.
Naomi only trusts herself and even that is starting to waiver. Her own emotions are playing games on her. She doesn’t want to ‘feel’. She wants to kill. It is what she is good at.
This is a character coupling that will take more than one book to fuse together, for Naomi to trust, for her to believe she is worthy of being loved.
Phin and his family have their own secrets and all hell is about to break loose.
Betrayal is a bitch.
Silas Smith gets some air time. I do love Silas. He has a gorgeous, manly personality who is so fiercely in love with Jessie. He knows how to handle Naomi, about as much as you can. He has known her a long time. He knows some of her pain.
Sometimes in life you are forced to take a good hard look at yourself and you find you don’t quite like what you see. Sometimes decisions are made for you and you just have to make the best of it, roll with it and see how it all pans out.
Looking forward to reading No Rest For The Witches # 2.5 and then onto All Things Wicked.
This was a slick read that I really enjoyed. I found myself turning the pages in this series full of hard knocks, a corrupt Church , missionaries jumping ship because power can be too inviting for those with evil on the brain.
Sometimes the least likely wind up with the power and responsibility to use wisely and for good.
Michelle
RATING: 4.25 FINE PHINNEAS STARS with a DASH OF SILAS!!!
I am really enjoying this Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance series. Karina kept me entertained with peeling the layers back on Naomi West aka Naomi Ishikawa , the kickass, tough as nails missionary from Blood Of The Wicked.
In Blood Of The Wicked, Naomi is a killer who doesn’t ask questions first, she shoots first. She completely belongs to the Churches way of thinking and their mission to kill all witches, period.
In Lure Of The Wicked, Naomi is like a blank canvas , her body void of all her piercings, except for the two she kept, deposited in the one place that is so alien to her character, topside, in an exclusive high end Spa.
Naomi doesn’t know how to be girlie, she only does kickass, she wears kickass like a glove. She breathes kickass. The piercings are part of her attire. She is a killer. She doesn’t do massages, facials....until now.
There is a rogue missionary, witches need to be dealt with and she has been given the mission of sorting through Timeless and finding some answers, posing undercover.
Phinneas Clarke and his mothers, yes plural, run Timeless. I loved the scenes where Naomi is about to crack and Phin takes charge and gives her a massage. All above board people, this is a respected and above board ,high end establishment. I really liked his mothers and their relationship with Phin. He could have come across as a mummys boy, but he didn’t, as he has such respect for these two women who have raised him. He is also a whole lot of man who has a whole lot of heart.
What he does for Naomi ....
Book # 1 had the reader below ground in the dangerous Old Seattle, the broken city, buried by the earthquake. In this book we are topside , where Naomi is not comfortable, where Naomi does not fit in. By birth she deserves to fit in, but life has not been kind to Naomi. Life has broken her and even Phin is finding it hard to mend it.
Naomi only trusts herself and even that is starting to waiver. Her own emotions are playing games on her. She doesn’t want to ‘feel’. She wants to kill. It is what she is good at.
This is a character coupling that will take more than one book to fuse together, for Naomi to trust, for her to believe she is worthy of being loved.
Phin and his family have their own secrets and all hell is about to break loose.
Betrayal is a bitch.
Silas Smith gets some air time. I do love Silas. He has a gorgeous, manly personality who is so fiercely in love with Jessie. He knows how to handle Naomi, about as much as you can. He has known her a long time. He knows some of her pain.
Sometimes in life you are forced to take a good hard look at yourself and you find you don’t quite like what you see. Sometimes decisions are made for you and you just have to make the best of it, roll with it and see how it all pans out.
Looking forward to reading No Rest For The Witches # 2.5 and then onto All Things Wicked.
This was a slick read that I really enjoyed. I found myself turning the pages in this series full of hard knocks, a corrupt Church , missionaries jumping ship because power can be too inviting for those with evil on the brain.
Sometimes the least likely wind up with the power and responsibility to use wisely and for good.
Michelle
May 28, 2011
The magic is back with this latest installment of Karina Cooper's Dark Mission series. And by the time I got to the end of Lure of the Wicked, I was every bit as enthralled in Cooper's dark and creative world as I was in
Before the Witches
. That's a mighty compliment, because I loved that novella.
The book begins with a missionary, Naomi, on an undercover job to capture a rouge agent. She is assuming the role of a rich society woman at a posh spa. But almost right away, things get more complicated when a witch attacks her in her room. He gets away and Naomi now must not only find her original target, but the witch who is targeting her.
Phin runs the fancy resort where Naomi is staying. His parents founded the place. When he and Naomi meet, sparks fly instantly. Of course, he has no idea who she really is or why she is there. But despite her assumed identity, her real personality shines through. And perhaps just as importantly, her real life starts seeping in and mixing with her pretend one.
At the beginning of the book, I was kind of struck by the fact that there was very little supernatural at play. Really, Naomi could have been any kind of agent on any secret mission and the story would have played out in a similar fashion. But the otherworldly and post-apocalyptic elements got more involved as the story went on. Luckily, the stumbling blocks I found in Blood of the Wicked seemed to be righted here. We're back to characters that I felt invested in. Naomi's backstory is clear and sympathetic. She made for a much better "gruff agent with a wounded heart" than Silas did. And Phin was a character with depth. He had other relationships in his life that helped flesh him out as well.
I cared about Naomi and Phin both as individuals and as a couple, something I couldn't really say about Silas and Jessie. The sexual tension was great and, frankly, so was the sex. There is one particularly enjoyable scene at the end of chapter 13 that I may have read two or three times. But more than that, I felt the evolution of an emotional bond between the two of them. It was very well done.
It was a pleasant surprise to see characters from the last book pop up toward the end. And I can see a direction for the series to progress. I was a little surprised to see the who the male lead will be in the set up for the next book... and I can't wait to see how he will be redeemed. It seems like a tall order, but one I'm anxious to see Karina Cooper fill. 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
The book begins with a missionary, Naomi, on an undercover job to capture a rouge agent. She is assuming the role of a rich society woman at a posh spa. But almost right away, things get more complicated when a witch attacks her in her room. He gets away and Naomi now must not only find her original target, but the witch who is targeting her.
Phin runs the fancy resort where Naomi is staying. His parents founded the place. When he and Naomi meet, sparks fly instantly. Of course, he has no idea who she really is or why she is there. But despite her assumed identity, her real personality shines through. And perhaps just as importantly, her real life starts seeping in and mixing with her pretend one.
At the beginning of the book, I was kind of struck by the fact that there was very little supernatural at play. Really, Naomi could have been any kind of agent on any secret mission and the story would have played out in a similar fashion. But the otherworldly and post-apocalyptic elements got more involved as the story went on. Luckily, the stumbling blocks I found in Blood of the Wicked seemed to be righted here. We're back to characters that I felt invested in. Naomi's backstory is clear and sympathetic. She made for a much better "gruff agent with a wounded heart" than Silas did. And Phin was a character with depth. He had other relationships in his life that helped flesh him out as well.
I cared about Naomi and Phin both as individuals and as a couple, something I couldn't really say about Silas and Jessie. The sexual tension was great and, frankly, so was the sex. There is one particularly enjoyable scene at the end of chapter 13 that I may have read two or three times. But more than that, I felt the evolution of an emotional bond between the two of them. It was very well done.
It was a pleasant surprise to see characters from the last book pop up toward the end. And I can see a direction for the series to progress. I was a little surprised to see the who the male lead will be in the set up for the next book... and I can't wait to see how he will be redeemed. It seems like a tall order, but one I'm anxious to see Karina Cooper fill. 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
July 11, 2011
Favorite Lines: “He kissed her like a man drowning, in desperate need of air. He feasted on the full, lush curve of her lips as if he starved. He wasn’t rough, he didn’t force her, but, God, he didn’t have to.” (p. 110, e-galley)
Lure of the Wicked is book two in Karina Cooper’s Dark Mission series. It takes place in a world where witchcraft is feared. I read the short novella Before the Witches which set up the world, but I missed the first book in the series Blood of the Wicked. I was able to read Lure of the Wicked as a stand alone.
Lure of the Wicked is a dark, paranormal romance that confronts the demons which torment one character and fills the empty void inside another character. One of the things I enjoyed most about the book was the role reversal between the hero and heroine. Usually we have the super alpha hero and the woman who is hiding secrets. Not so in this book. Phin is no wimp, but Naomi could kick his ass if she wanted. There are other obvious role reversals, but I don’t want to spoil the story and will leave those for you to figure out.
The setting is pretty narrow; the majority of the book is set inside the luxurious spa. There are moments away, but those are few and far between. It’s a sexy book filled with a stubborn heroine who isn’t afraid to get a little bloody and a laid back, rich hero who quietly saves the lives of people condemned as witches. The two are drastically different, but if anything can overcome the lies told and lives lost it’s love.
What I didn’t like: I wasn’t impressed with the magical aspect of the story; it was glossed over to the point of almost being irrelevant.
Read it or Skip it: I didn’t adore the book, however it was a nice distraction from life. It was entertaining and had excellent sex scenes. I don’t regret reading it, but I’m not sure that I’m hooked into the world. As with most series the third book will make or break my interest. If you don’t mind books where the heroine takes the lead check it out.
Scooper Speaks
Lure of the Wicked is book two in Karina Cooper’s Dark Mission series. It takes place in a world where witchcraft is feared. I read the short novella Before the Witches which set up the world, but I missed the first book in the series Blood of the Wicked. I was able to read Lure of the Wicked as a stand alone.
Lure of the Wicked is a dark, paranormal romance that confronts the demons which torment one character and fills the empty void inside another character. One of the things I enjoyed most about the book was the role reversal between the hero and heroine. Usually we have the super alpha hero and the woman who is hiding secrets. Not so in this book. Phin is no wimp, but Naomi could kick his ass if she wanted. There are other obvious role reversals, but I don’t want to spoil the story and will leave those for you to figure out.
The setting is pretty narrow; the majority of the book is set inside the luxurious spa. There are moments away, but those are few and far between. It’s a sexy book filled with a stubborn heroine who isn’t afraid to get a little bloody and a laid back, rich hero who quietly saves the lives of people condemned as witches. The two are drastically different, but if anything can overcome the lies told and lives lost it’s love.
What I didn’t like: I wasn’t impressed with the magical aspect of the story; it was glossed over to the point of almost being irrelevant.
Read it or Skip it: I didn’t adore the book, however it was a nice distraction from life. It was entertaining and had excellent sex scenes. I don’t regret reading it, but I’m not sure that I’m hooked into the world. As with most series the third book will make or break my interest. If you don’t mind books where the heroine takes the lead check it out.
Scooper Speaks
Did Not Finish
June 30, 2011Originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2011/06/30/...
Publisher: Avon
Publish Date: Out Now
How I got this book: NetGalley
When I first read Cooper’s Before the Witches (Review here), her short novella that introduces us to the world she created in the Dark Mission series, I thought I would be hooked. I really enjoyed the way she set up the world, and everything sounded so intriguing…
Well I missed the first full length novel in the series, Blood of the Wicked, and picked up Lure of the Wicked through NetGalley. I figured it wouldn’t be a problem since the books seem to be about different heroes and heroines.
Let me start by saying I only made it about 40% of the way through the book. I found that I had a difficult time keeping track of what exactly was going on, wasn’t really able to relate to the characters, and at times I felt like a pinball machine; bouncing to and fro.
While Naomi seemed to be a very fierce and kick ass character, she was also hard to relate to and understand. Whenever she was first and foremost in the scene, things were jumbled, convoluted and confusing. I found myself frequently going back and re-reading passages to try and figure out what I was missing, and being unable to do so. While Phin was a little bit better, I felt like many of his actions and reactions came from left field. One moment he is watching Naomi work out and the next he’s giving her an orgasm against a punching bag. O_o While the scene was super hot, I was left a little cold in that the emotions weren’t there.
While the blurb of the book pulled me in as far as the suspense went, it almost seemed as if there was too much going on. Too many sub plots, too many turns and not enough answers. While I didn’t expect anything to be resolved within the first 40% of the story, I also expected to move that part of the plot a lot further than it had.
Unfortunately I just didn’t get into this book, couldn’t seem to get into it enough to continue on, even though I wanted to enjoy it. I’ve read some really good reviews for this book, so maybe it’s just me?
Publisher: Avon
Publish Date: Out Now
How I got this book: NetGalley
When I first read Cooper’s Before the Witches (Review here), her short novella that introduces us to the world she created in the Dark Mission series, I thought I would be hooked. I really enjoyed the way she set up the world, and everything sounded so intriguing…
Well I missed the first full length novel in the series, Blood of the Wicked, and picked up Lure of the Wicked through NetGalley. I figured it wouldn’t be a problem since the books seem to be about different heroes and heroines.
Let me start by saying I only made it about 40% of the way through the book. I found that I had a difficult time keeping track of what exactly was going on, wasn’t really able to relate to the characters, and at times I felt like a pinball machine; bouncing to and fro.
While Naomi seemed to be a very fierce and kick ass character, she was also hard to relate to and understand. Whenever she was first and foremost in the scene, things were jumbled, convoluted and confusing. I found myself frequently going back and re-reading passages to try and figure out what I was missing, and being unable to do so. While Phin was a little bit better, I felt like many of his actions and reactions came from left field. One moment he is watching Naomi work out and the next he’s giving her an orgasm against a punching bag. O_o While the scene was super hot, I was left a little cold in that the emotions weren’t there.
While the blurb of the book pulled me in as far as the suspense went, it almost seemed as if there was too much going on. Too many sub plots, too many turns and not enough answers. While I didn’t expect anything to be resolved within the first 40% of the story, I also expected to move that part of the plot a lot further than it had.
Unfortunately I just didn’t get into this book, couldn’t seem to get into it enough to continue on, even though I wanted to enjoy it. I’ve read some really good reviews for this book, so maybe it’s just me?
July 1, 2011
You may also read my review here: http://www.mybookishways.com/2011/07/...
I really enjoyed Blood of the Wicked (Dark Mission #1) so I couldn’t wait to dive into Lure of the Wicked. Lure of the Wicked is Naomi West’s story and follows her as she takes an assignment in an exclusive spa in New Seattle called Timeless. Strange things have been happening at Timeless, people are dying, and Naomi must track down a rogue agent with blood on his hands. When Naomi meets the owner, Phin Clarke, she realizes that he may be a distraction, which is the last thing she needs. She’s determined to conclude this mission, and get the hell out of Timeless. Little does Naomi know, there’s a power contained within the walls of Timeless that people are willing to kill, and die, for.
Lure of the Wicked isn’t just paranormal romance or action, it’s a fish out of water story. Naomi West is supposed to be tough, stoic, and without feeling, right? She’s a missionary for the Holy Order, and takes her job very seriously. The problem is, the reason for Timeless’ existence is so people have a place to go to relax and let things go, and it’s precisely the reason it gets right under Naomi’s skin. Yes, there’s a killer on the loose, and ass-kicking aplenty, but the real story lies with Naomi and her resistance to letting go, not only of her control, but to the pain of her past, and to possible love. When the mother that abandoned her when she was five shows up at the spa, her emotional walls crumble even more. She may even be falling for Phin, but he’s hiding a secret that could drive a permanent wedge between them. The mystery of the rogue agent provides a nice backdrop for Phin and Naomi’s (super hot) romance, and Karina Cooper’s writing crackles with tension.
Lure of the Wicked isn’t as dark as Blood of the Wicked, but there’s plenty of action to satisfy this thriller fan. Are there sex scenes? You bet! They’re so well crafted and intrinsic to the story, so I’m all for that. There’s also a fun scene that brings to mind Pretty Woman , and a there’s nice twist at the end that I didn’t see coming! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I really enjoyed Blood of the Wicked (Dark Mission #1) so I couldn’t wait to dive into Lure of the Wicked. Lure of the Wicked is Naomi West’s story and follows her as she takes an assignment in an exclusive spa in New Seattle called Timeless. Strange things have been happening at Timeless, people are dying, and Naomi must track down a rogue agent with blood on his hands. When Naomi meets the owner, Phin Clarke, she realizes that he may be a distraction, which is the last thing she needs. She’s determined to conclude this mission, and get the hell out of Timeless. Little does Naomi know, there’s a power contained within the walls of Timeless that people are willing to kill, and die, for.
Lure of the Wicked isn’t just paranormal romance or action, it’s a fish out of water story. Naomi West is supposed to be tough, stoic, and without feeling, right? She’s a missionary for the Holy Order, and takes her job very seriously. The problem is, the reason for Timeless’ existence is so people have a place to go to relax and let things go, and it’s precisely the reason it gets right under Naomi’s skin. Yes, there’s a killer on the loose, and ass-kicking aplenty, but the real story lies with Naomi and her resistance to letting go, not only of her control, but to the pain of her past, and to possible love. When the mother that abandoned her when she was five shows up at the spa, her emotional walls crumble even more. She may even be falling for Phin, but he’s hiding a secret that could drive a permanent wedge between them. The mystery of the rogue agent provides a nice backdrop for Phin and Naomi’s (super hot) romance, and Karina Cooper’s writing crackles with tension.
Lure of the Wicked isn’t as dark as Blood of the Wicked, but there’s plenty of action to satisfy this thriller fan. Are there sex scenes? You bet! They’re so well crafted and intrinsic to the story, so I’m all for that. There’s also a fun scene that brings to mind Pretty Woman , and a there’s nice twist at the end that I didn’t see coming! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
August 15, 2011
Neiomi West in one of the top witch hunters in New Seattle. When she was a small child her parents divorced. Her mother did not want her so she stayed with her father. A few months after the divorce was final her father killed his self. He left everything he had to he ex-wife and put Neiomi in the church orphanage. Now she works for the church as a witch hunter. The church has sent Neiomi undercover to a spa. Timeless is New Seattle's premier spa and resort. They cater to the uber rich and powerfull. There is a missionary hiding at the spa looking for something. He has already killed two people. It is now up to Neiomi to catch him and kill him. The first night at the spa Neiomi is attacked in her room by a witch. When she chases him he manages to escape. Not only does Neiomi need to find the rogue witch hunter but now she has to be on the lookout for a witch.
Phinneas Clarke is the owner of Timeless. His moters started the spa and built it up to what it is today. When he got old enough they turned the spa over to him. His mothers still work at the spa and help him run it. But what nobody knows is that Timeless is also an underground railroad that moves people who the church has accused of being witches. Before they offer safe passage, Phinneas's and his team research the person to be sure they are innocent of any wrong doing. It does not matter if they are a witch or not just as lone as there have been no wrong doing. Phinneas has no idea that there is a witch hunter hideing at the spa. This hunter was sent by someone at the church to find a powerful magical item and bring it back. Nor does he know that Neiomi is a witch hunter. When Phinneas runs into Neiomi there is something about her that calls to him. But when he sees her working out at the gym he know he has to have her.
This is the second installment of Ms Cooper's Dark Mission series. This is a fast-paced story that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last word. Set in a post apocalyptic world where witches have to hide or be killed. This series is great. I am very impressed with these books. This in an author you should keep your eye on.
Phinneas Clarke is the owner of Timeless. His moters started the spa and built it up to what it is today. When he got old enough they turned the spa over to him. His mothers still work at the spa and help him run it. But what nobody knows is that Timeless is also an underground railroad that moves people who the church has accused of being witches. Before they offer safe passage, Phinneas's and his team research the person to be sure they are innocent of any wrong doing. It does not matter if they are a witch or not just as lone as there have been no wrong doing. Phinneas has no idea that there is a witch hunter hideing at the spa. This hunter was sent by someone at the church to find a powerful magical item and bring it back. Nor does he know that Neiomi is a witch hunter. When Phinneas runs into Neiomi there is something about her that calls to him. But when he sees her working out at the gym he know he has to have her.
This is the second installment of Ms Cooper's Dark Mission series. This is a fast-paced story that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last word. Set in a post apocalyptic world where witches have to hide or be killed. This series is great. I am very impressed with these books. This in an author you should keep your eye on.
June 27, 2011
originally posted at http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
Most people would be thrilled to be a part of a fancy spa. Especially when the spa is not coming out of their own pocket money-wise. But not Naomi. In fact, she'd almost have to say that's a worse fate than prison itself. It's part of her job, though, and she can't really refuse. So this not so ladylike woman gets all dolled up and enters the world of luxury and rich people. Totally not her thing!
Naomi is the kind of woman you don't want to anger, or confront in a dark alley at night. She's a "kick butt and take names" kind of gal. She's sassy, snarky, and tough. But really, underneath the rough exterior she wears, there's a hurt woman deep inside....not that she's going to tell that to anyone, but as the book goes on, I noticed that. There's a bit of a soft spot underneath her sarcasm and sharp tongue, especially when it comes to Phinneas Clarke, the man whose family owns and runs Timeless.
Phin is a phenomenal hero, one that matches Naomi's wits. There is so much he doesn't know about Naomi, yet he's completely smitten with her, despite the way she pushes him away and denies attraction to him. He also knows that she doesn't seem very comfortable or fit in at the spa. Talk about a woman that's all wound up!
In this dazzling book from Karina Cooper, I found an absolute gem. This books has twists and turns that kept me reading late at night when I really should have been catching up on sleep. The world this author creates, blending the paranormal into a contemporary setting has me begging for more. It's hot, wit, and just full of fun. Keep your eye on this author, I have a feeling with books like this, she's going to be around for a long time!
If you enjoy a paranormal romance with a heroine who won't soon be forgotten, a plot that's fresh and fun, and a thrill ride that may have you feeling just the way I did when I finished this book, then rush to get your own copy of Lure of the Wicked.
Most people would be thrilled to be a part of a fancy spa. Especially when the spa is not coming out of their own pocket money-wise. But not Naomi. In fact, she'd almost have to say that's a worse fate than prison itself. It's part of her job, though, and she can't really refuse. So this not so ladylike woman gets all dolled up and enters the world of luxury and rich people. Totally not her thing!
Naomi is the kind of woman you don't want to anger, or confront in a dark alley at night. She's a "kick butt and take names" kind of gal. She's sassy, snarky, and tough. But really, underneath the rough exterior she wears, there's a hurt woman deep inside....not that she's going to tell that to anyone, but as the book goes on, I noticed that. There's a bit of a soft spot underneath her sarcasm and sharp tongue, especially when it comes to Phinneas Clarke, the man whose family owns and runs Timeless.
Phin is a phenomenal hero, one that matches Naomi's wits. There is so much he doesn't know about Naomi, yet he's completely smitten with her, despite the way she pushes him away and denies attraction to him. He also knows that she doesn't seem very comfortable or fit in at the spa. Talk about a woman that's all wound up!
In this dazzling book from Karina Cooper, I found an absolute gem. This books has twists and turns that kept me reading late at night when I really should have been catching up on sleep. The world this author creates, blending the paranormal into a contemporary setting has me begging for more. It's hot, wit, and just full of fun. Keep your eye on this author, I have a feeling with books like this, she's going to be around for a long time!
If you enjoy a paranormal romance with a heroine who won't soon be forgotten, a plot that's fresh and fun, and a thrill ride that may have you feeling just the way I did when I finished this book, then rush to get your own copy of Lure of the Wicked.
February 27, 2014
Naomi West, a missionary with the Church of the Holy Order, is sent undercover to a psoh spa to eliminate a rogue missionary bent on killing. There she meets Phin, owner and operator of the Spa, who has dangerous secrets of his own.
So far this is my favorite of the series. The characters in this book were more fleshed out than in book one or three. There was some things that annoyed me about some of the plot in this story which I will discuss further, but I thought Naomi was one of the strongest characters of the series. In this book we learn Naomi's back story, how/why she came to be who she is, and why this undercover operation hits too close to home for her. I loved how the author was able to make Phin's character both strong and weak like a normal person. He wasn't some rich boy who secretly became a super hero, but a man trying to protect his family secret and help others in need. He knew how to let Naomi protect him when needed and didn't get offended or macho about it.
Now the annoyances. Naomi realizes the mother who abandoned her when she was five has arrived at the ritzy spa and this makes her into an emotional cripple. Later she learns some truths about her mother and why her life came to be the way it was that should have changed her whole perspective on some things but this is never further explored or resolved in the book.
Also, she knows that her and the rogue are at the spa on separate mission orders from the Church but Naomi never questions why the Church sent her to catch on operative that was given directives from the said same church. In fact, despite these glaring questions, all she wanted to do was do her job, plus a little side job that came up and get back to the church. Yes the rogue was a little crazy and dangerous and needed to be put down but I felt like out of all the characters Naomi would be the one to question authority instead of being just a drone. And that's my biggest issue with this series. No one questions even the most glaringly obvious signs that something is not right in their house.
So far this is my favorite of the series. The characters in this book were more fleshed out than in book one or three. There was some things that annoyed me about some of the plot in this story which I will discuss further, but I thought Naomi was one of the strongest characters of the series. In this book we learn Naomi's back story, how/why she came to be who she is, and why this undercover operation hits too close to home for her. I loved how the author was able to make Phin's character both strong and weak like a normal person. He wasn't some rich boy who secretly became a super hero, but a man trying to protect his family secret and help others in need. He knew how to let Naomi protect him when needed and didn't get offended or macho about it.
Now the annoyances. Naomi realizes the mother who abandoned her when she was five has arrived at the ritzy spa and this makes her into an emotional cripple. Later she learns some truths about her mother and why her life came to be the way it was that should have changed her whole perspective on some things but this is never further explored or resolved in the book.
Also, she knows that her and the rogue are at the spa on separate mission orders from the Church but Naomi never questions why the Church sent her to catch on operative that was given directives from the said same church. In fact, despite these glaring questions, all she wanted to do was do her job, plus a little side job that came up and get back to the church. Yes the rogue was a little crazy and dangerous and needed to be put down but I felt like out of all the characters Naomi would be the one to question authority instead of being just a drone. And that's my biggest issue with this series. No one questions even the most glaringly obvious signs that something is not right in their house.
February 23, 2013
Sadly I went into Lure of the Wicked with very low expectations. I didn’t like Naomi in Blood of the Wicked. I didn’t believe that there was anything about her that could possibly change my opinion of her. I was correct with this assumption. In the end I still do not like Naomi. I liked the fact that she is tough and full of bad assery. I loved the fact that readers were given a glimpse into her past. It definitely explained her. It also gave some explanation as to how she became a missionary.
Phin left me with a meh feeling. I didn’t like him. I didn’t hate him. He was the hero. I never grasped the attraction between Naomi and Phin. They had some really hot sex scenes, but that is all I grasped connection wise between them. I did think the way they are going with their happily ever after was appropriate for the situation at the end of the book. I adored Phin’s parents. They were too sweet. I also loved what they spent their life doing for others.
The situation at the end… I hope this is going where I think it is. There are definitely some corruptive forces that need to be brought down. The corruption seems to be in many places though so that tells me there will be plenty of action packed fights ahead.
I like the history repeating itself theme that is very present with this series. Witch hunting and the persecution of said witches have a heavy role in the Dark Mission series. The Holy Order of St Dominic has its missionaries assigned to be the judge, jury, and executioner of any and all witches. This installment in the series brings forth another tragic historical event with a modern, world specific twist. I am thoroughly enjoying this aspect of the series. It seems that corruption works its way in to most things and sullies what was once good.
Phin left me with a meh feeling. I didn’t like him. I didn’t hate him. He was the hero. I never grasped the attraction between Naomi and Phin. They had some really hot sex scenes, but that is all I grasped connection wise between them. I did think the way they are going with their happily ever after was appropriate for the situation at the end of the book. I adored Phin’s parents. They were too sweet. I also loved what they spent their life doing for others.
The situation at the end… I hope this is going where I think it is. There are definitely some corruptive forces that need to be brought down. The corruption seems to be in many places though so that tells me there will be plenty of action packed fights ahead.
I like the history repeating itself theme that is very present with this series. Witch hunting and the persecution of said witches have a heavy role in the Dark Mission series. The Holy Order of St Dominic has its missionaries assigned to be the judge, jury, and executioner of any and all witches. This installment in the series brings forth another tragic historical event with a modern, world specific twist. I am thoroughly enjoying this aspect of the series. It seems that corruption works its way in to most things and sullies what was once good.
April 10, 2012
I’m a little behind so I’m only on book two even though I’ve got book three at home and ready to read. I’ve found that Karina Cooper is a fresh voice in the romantic/urban fantasy genre. Because her books are so original and different from my normal reading it takes some pages for my brain to switch on and engage with her characters and setting. The first Dark Mission book took me about 100 pages, for Lure of the Wicked it took me only about 30 pages. After I become engaged with the story telling I’m hooked and I can’t put it down. The post-apocalyptic world that she’s created is wonderfully original and fascinating. She creates such engaging characters that are each a little bit on the good side as well as the bad side. Depending on which side they’re fighting on, they each are engaged in their own fight for justice. In the case of Naomi and Phinneas, they are on opposite sides of their fight but can’t deny the connection they share. Can either of them bend to accept that their ideals and beliefs may not be what New Seattle needs?
After I got hooked I really enjoyed this story. I loved how Naomi was bruised mentally but she got out there and fought for herself and for what she thought was right. And I really do mean fought. This was a strong, independent woman who could hold her own against anyone trying to take her out. Initially Phinneas came off (to me) as just a suave business owner but after reading his interactions with his mothers and his pull to Naomi, I just loved his character. Really great read from Ms. Cooper and it gets me excited to go read the third book in the series!
After I got hooked I really enjoyed this story. I loved how Naomi was bruised mentally but she got out there and fought for herself and for what she thought was right. And I really do mean fought. This was a strong, independent woman who could hold her own against anyone trying to take her out. Initially Phinneas came off (to me) as just a suave business owner but after reading his interactions with his mothers and his pull to Naomi, I just loved his character. Really great read from Ms. Cooper and it gets me excited to go read the third book in the series!
August 20, 2012
Lure of the Wicked is the second book in the Dark Mission series by Karina Cooper and a Paranormal Romance from AVON.
Blurb:
Naomi West was plucked from one prison and placed undercover in another: the gilded cage that is Timeless, New Seattle's premier spa and resort, where owner Phinneas Clarke - the most seductive man Naomi has ever met - may be hiding a killer.
She's an agent of the Holy Order, trained to hunt the guilty and render justice. But while she's tracking down a rogue agent on a killing spree, Phin is determined to uncover her most damning - and dangerous - secrets. Whatever the cost.
My thoughts:
Naomi West works for the Holy Order - that does not mean that she always agrees with them. Her attitude has often been the cause of trouble and now she’s found out that she is being monitored - is in fact, one step away from disciplinary actions. And no one likes the Holy Order’s brand of discipline.
Determined to get her latest assignment completed in a timely and satisfactory manner, Naomi immerses herself in the monied spa named Timeless. But though Naomi is there to track a rogue agent - it is the owner’s son that has caught her attention.
Phinneas Clark is more than Naomi bargained for - in more ways than one. He is hiding something...and Naomi’s interest is more than piqued.
Lure of the Wicked is an enjoyable read. I like that Naomi is so headstrong and stubborn.
I give Lure of the Wicked 3 out of 5 stars.
Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (June 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 006204690X
ISBN-13: 978-0062046901
Blurb:
Naomi West was plucked from one prison and placed undercover in another: the gilded cage that is Timeless, New Seattle's premier spa and resort, where owner Phinneas Clarke - the most seductive man Naomi has ever met - may be hiding a killer.
She's an agent of the Holy Order, trained to hunt the guilty and render justice. But while she's tracking down a rogue agent on a killing spree, Phin is determined to uncover her most damning - and dangerous - secrets. Whatever the cost.
My thoughts:
Naomi West works for the Holy Order - that does not mean that she always agrees with them. Her attitude has often been the cause of trouble and now she’s found out that she is being monitored - is in fact, one step away from disciplinary actions. And no one likes the Holy Order’s brand of discipline.
Determined to get her latest assignment completed in a timely and satisfactory manner, Naomi immerses herself in the monied spa named Timeless. But though Naomi is there to track a rogue agent - it is the owner’s son that has caught her attention.
Phinneas Clark is more than Naomi bargained for - in more ways than one. He is hiding something...and Naomi’s interest is more than piqued.
Lure of the Wicked is an enjoyable read. I like that Naomi is so headstrong and stubborn.
I give Lure of the Wicked 3 out of 5 stars.
Product Details
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (June 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 006204690X
ISBN-13: 978-0062046901
December 24, 2014
OK, I have totally read these books out of order but this is definitely my favourite.
I enjoyed the prequel, book 1 was quite good but I really couldn't see the connection - much preferred the prequel characters.
Close to detested the fourth book - the alpha male was a total tool and the female character's feelings and actions didn't gel with the way she was described.
So, why on earth did I go on to read this one? Well other people rated the series highly so I bit the bullet.
Whew what a relief, Phin was a male character I could admire. His metrosexuality (for want of a better word) is totally a product of his upbringing and he interacts well with Naomi. Naomi stays true to her introductory spiel, full of bile and anger.
Something I have found in the other books is that I sometimes get totally lost - its almost as if scenes or backstory is assumed but not provided - I only got nuances of that in this book, more like the reader needs to connect the dots rather than the usual WTF?
Glad I gave the series another chance, just about to start 2.5
I enjoyed the prequel, book 1 was quite good but I really couldn't see the connection - much preferred the prequel characters.
Close to detested the fourth book - the alpha male was a total tool and the female character's feelings and actions didn't gel with the way she was described.
So, why on earth did I go on to read this one? Well other people rated the series highly so I bit the bullet.
Whew what a relief, Phin was a male character I could admire. His metrosexuality (for want of a better word) is totally a product of his upbringing and he interacts well with Naomi. Naomi stays true to her introductory spiel, full of bile and anger.
Something I have found in the other books is that I sometimes get totally lost - its almost as if scenes or backstory is assumed but not provided - I only got nuances of that in this book, more like the reader needs to connect the dots rather than the usual WTF?
Glad I gave the series another chance, just about to start 2.5
March 11, 2017
Naomi hasst diese Mission von Anfang an. Die Hexenjägern soll undercover in einem Luxus-Spa ermitteln. Dort soll ein abtrünniger Jäger sich verstecken. Kaum angekommen wird sie schon angegriffen. Der Manger will es unbedingt geheim halten. Sie kann ihn nicht leiden, wenn er bloss nicht so anziehend wäre.
Naomi kannte ich schon aus Band 1 der Reihe. Jetzt lernt man sie besser kennen und ihre knallharte Fassade beginnt zu bröckeln. In diesem Band ist alles etwas leichter, heller und humorvoller als im ersten Band. Auch die Erotik ist hier etwas mehr vorhanden. Phin lässt Naomi erblühen, ihre Fassade bröckelt durch ihn. Die Spannung als die beiden das erste Mal aufeinander treffen ist greifbar, spürbar dort würde kein Blatt mehr dazwischen passen. :) Das Knistern zwischen den beiden bringt die Spannung zum kochen. Man tappt im Dunklen und fragt sich was dort auf einen lauert. Wer steckt hinter dem allen. Ein paar alte Bekannte tauchen auch noch auf. Leider ist dieses Buch, das letzte das übersetzt worden ist. Also muss ich mal wieder auf Englisch zurückgreifen.
Naomi kannte ich schon aus Band 1 der Reihe. Jetzt lernt man sie besser kennen und ihre knallharte Fassade beginnt zu bröckeln. In diesem Band ist alles etwas leichter, heller und humorvoller als im ersten Band. Auch die Erotik ist hier etwas mehr vorhanden. Phin lässt Naomi erblühen, ihre Fassade bröckelt durch ihn. Die Spannung als die beiden das erste Mal aufeinander treffen ist greifbar, spürbar dort würde kein Blatt mehr dazwischen passen. :) Das Knistern zwischen den beiden bringt die Spannung zum kochen. Man tappt im Dunklen und fragt sich was dort auf einen lauert. Wer steckt hinter dem allen. Ein paar alte Bekannte tauchen auch noch auf. Leider ist dieses Buch, das letzte das übersetzt worden ist. Also muss ich mal wieder auf Englisch zurückgreifen.
January 9, 2013
Her - Life based on Mommie Dearest. Him - Life based on Phineas has 2 mommies.
So Naomi's tough as nails, has abandonment issues, looking for a father figure. Phin's been brought up by 2 women, 1 who is a homey dumpling, the other more severe who wears suits (can we get more stereotyped here?). Let's see, he has impeccable taste, runs an exclusive spa, had a fling with a dress designer but seems more interested in the clothing than her, he tans, works out in a gym....He has no combat experience but ninja girl keeps clinging to him in a crisis. I thought when Silas from the first book showed up, Phin would suddenly lose interest in Naomi. Instead it was the predictable ending. And I don't get the writing. Phrases like, "Her lashes flared." Really? Can I see a clip of that on YouTube?
Done with this series. Meh.
So Naomi's tough as nails, has abandonment issues, looking for a father figure. Phin's been brought up by 2 women, 1 who is a homey dumpling, the other more severe who wears suits (can we get more stereotyped here?). Let's see, he has impeccable taste, runs an exclusive spa, had a fling with a dress designer but seems more interested in the clothing than her, he tans, works out in a gym....He has no combat experience but ninja girl keeps clinging to him in a crisis. I thought when Silas from the first book showed up, Phin would suddenly lose interest in Naomi. Instead it was the predictable ending. And I don't get the writing. Phrases like, "Her lashes flared." Really? Can I see a clip of that on YouTube?
Done with this series. Meh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2011
Definite improvement from her first book. The chemistry between Naiomi and Phin was incredible! It was easy to fall in love with his mothers. There were several incredibly hot scenes! When things started happening at Timeless, I had trouble putting the book down. I was even happy that Silas made an appearance later in the book. I was getting worried towards the end (won't say any more - don't want to spoil anything). My one gripe, which is just my opinion, is that I wanted a fairy tale ending. Wasn't there. I can't fault her, though. She was true to Nai's character.
June 24, 2013
I pretty much really f*cking love this book! I thought the first of the series was amazing, but this was definitely right there too. I like the whole new world thats created. The plot, characters, and storyline really weaves together well. Its suspense, love, and hotness all bundled in a book. If you like erotic romance, some fantasy & a kickass heroine don't wait, read this now! 4.5/5 - Yours truly.
September 21, 2014
This was pretty good. I think it was better than the first. More emotions going on which for me is a plus. Still don't really like Naomi though. There was just something about her. Maybe it was her trying so hard to be a hard ass and unemotional. It just became annoying. Loved Phin though. Gotta love the guy who chases after this nut job. lol.. Overall pretty good book and I can see where this author is going with this series.
July 15, 2011
Maybe more like 3 1/2 stars. I liked Blood of the Wicked better. I didn't care for the character of Naomi West when she was introduced in Blood, and not much changed when she became the heroine in Lure. I still didn't care for her too much.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 56 reviews