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The Blood Series #1
Blood Moons
They say no good deed ever goes unpunished, a sentiment Dara understands fully now that she is paying for a crime she didn't commit. It was stupid to call in a murder she didn't really see. But how could Dara have kept silent? Now a stunning -- scratch that, a dangerous -- man with a frightening secret of his own is telling her he can help. Yeah, right. A telepath knows better than to trust mere words.
The last decade of Tristan's life has been penance. All that time spent among the worst dregs of society might have made him begin to question his humanity, but he’s never felt so much like an animal as he does around this timid, delicate female. Her very presence stirs the beast within him; Tristan can feel it growing stronger every day. Any more time with Dara, and it might overpower him completely. But without her, he stands no chance at all...
The last decade of Tristan's life has been penance. All that time spent among the worst dregs of society might have made him begin to question his humanity, but he’s never felt so much like an animal as he does around this timid, delicate female. Her very presence stirs the beast within him; Tristan can feel it growing stronger every day. Any more time with Dara, and it might overpower him completely. But without her, he stands no chance at all...
190 pages, ebook
First published September 27, 2010
21 people are currently reading
803 people want to read
About the author
Alianne Donnelly
24 books108 followersAlianne Donnelly was a wordsmith long before she became a reader. Driven by an insatiable curiosity about everything from history and mythology to science and philosophy, she grew into a fiction writer who hates coloring inside the genre lines. Her books all have elements of romance, with different series sorted under paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and erotic. And then there’s Wolfen…
Alianne lives in California, doing hard time in a corporate 9-5, while secretly scribbling away any chance she gets. She loves pizza, hiking, and avoiding small talk, and hopes to one day win the lottery jackpot. For more information about Alianne's books and writerly life, visit her website: aliannedonnelly.com
Alianne lives in California, doing hard time in a corporate 9-5, while secretly scribbling away any chance she gets. She loves pizza, hiking, and avoiding small talk, and hopes to one day win the lottery jackpot. For more information about Alianne's books and writerly life, visit her website: aliannedonnelly.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 28, 2011
I found Blood Moons refreshing and exciting to read, to tell you the truth I was very impressed with the story and had a hard time putting it down. The author does an amazing job in the world building and she explains everything very well. I will say this is not for the faint of heart, this book carries all the emotions along with a very evil villain and of course, with these two locked up in prison you don’t meet nice guys there. So, be prepared for one intense book with a surprising hot romance.
I really liked all the characters the storyline and the tension between the Tristan and Dara. It’s not every day you read a book where a woman is put in prison and placed in a cell with a man, a big hunk I might add. Well, you can guess where this is going. I loved how they communicated telepathically and how their relationship exploded as the days in prison went by. It’s always nice to find an unlikely hero in the wrong place.
If you enjoy reading telepathic abilities and shape-shifters stories, you have to try this one. I recommend it to any paranormal and/or futuristic romance reader.
I really liked all the characters the storyline and the tension between the Tristan and Dara. It’s not every day you read a book where a woman is put in prison and placed in a cell with a man, a big hunk I might add. Well, you can guess where this is going. I loved how they communicated telepathically and how their relationship exploded as the days in prison went by. It’s always nice to find an unlikely hero in the wrong place.
If you enjoy reading telepathic abilities and shape-shifters stories, you have to try this one. I recommend it to any paranormal and/or futuristic romance reader.
July 3, 2023
I’m trying to clean out some of my older TBRs. I thought this was going to be a prison planet scenario, and they’re in prison together for a lot of the book, but it was different from previous reads. There’s a lot going on, and I initially felt lost in the world building, but it was a pretty good read.
The book opens in the year 3028, I’m not sure if this is a spinoff, but I was lost. I guess there are telepaths and planet travel. Dara is convicted of murder after she shares a vision of the killer. They place her with Tristan, another telepath that has been experimented on. It’s a slow burn while Tristan tries to teach Dara how to use her gift. There’re a couple subplots with the evil prison guards and the serial killer with a mind link to Dara.
Bottom Line- It was ok, but I won’t continue the series. It took a while to get going, and the middle was slow at times, but I really enjoyed the last 35% or so. The plot was unique, but I felt lost at times. The book is under 200 pages, but it dragged in certain places.
The book opens in the year 3028, I’m not sure if this is a spinoff, but I was lost. I guess there are telepaths and planet travel. Dara is convicted of murder after she shares a vision of the killer. They place her with Tristan, another telepath that has been experimented on. It’s a slow burn while Tristan tries to teach Dara how to use her gift. There’re a couple subplots with the evil prison guards and the serial killer with a mind link to Dara.
Bottom Line- It was ok, but I won’t continue the series. It took a while to get going, and the middle was slow at times, but I really enjoyed the last 35% or so. The plot was unique, but I felt lost at times. The book is under 200 pages, but it dragged in certain places.
March 10, 2011
I’m not sure what I was expecting when I went into this book. I certainly got so much more than I thought possible. This is a great story. A girl is in prison with 200 males and 3 other females. Her cellmate is even male, a very scary one. How does this work for the happily ever after? Hello, enter in the genius writing of one Donnelly. She completely worked this with a happily ever after fairy tale ending. This is a futuristic sci-fi book that takes place in the year 3028. Individuals that are serving prison sentences are doing so on other planets. The government also utilizes the prisoners for their own means of advancement (sorry for being vague, but potential spoiler.)
I liked Dara and Tristan’s story. He’s the bad boy. There is a reason this man is in a maximum security prison. The moment she walks into his cell he knows that he is going to have to protect her from all of the evil that surrounds them. These are easily likable characters. Dara is much like us the reader. She loves to read and uses books as a means of escape. Tristan realizes Dara’s unique ability and try’s as much as possible to help her develop it more and to be able to utilize it better to protect herself. I loved the different layers of Tristan. He can seem harsh and cruel then other times he is sweet and kind. This book is impossible to put down. You are constantly wondering how they will get over the next hurtle, how they will get to a place where they can be happy as a couple. There is also the evil murderer who committed the crime that Dara is serving prison time for. He is still out killing people. The authority’s only connection to the murderer is a Dara who knows too much about the crimes to be an innocent.
I am looking forward for more of this series. The readers are introduced to lead male character for the 2nd book in Blood Moons. I read on my friend Lauries blog (bittenbyparanormalromance.com) that there will be 3 books in this series. The next is Blood Trails, with Jeremy Calen and Hailey Chase, followed by Blood Debt.
I liked Dara and Tristan’s story. He’s the bad boy. There is a reason this man is in a maximum security prison. The moment she walks into his cell he knows that he is going to have to protect her from all of the evil that surrounds them. These are easily likable characters. Dara is much like us the reader. She loves to read and uses books as a means of escape. Tristan realizes Dara’s unique ability and try’s as much as possible to help her develop it more and to be able to utilize it better to protect herself. I loved the different layers of Tristan. He can seem harsh and cruel then other times he is sweet and kind. This book is impossible to put down. You are constantly wondering how they will get over the next hurtle, how they will get to a place where they can be happy as a couple. There is also the evil murderer who committed the crime that Dara is serving prison time for. He is still out killing people. The authority’s only connection to the murderer is a Dara who knows too much about the crimes to be an innocent.
I am looking forward for more of this series. The readers are introduced to lead male character for the 2nd book in Blood Moons. I read on my friend Lauries blog (bittenbyparanormalromance.com) that there will be 3 books in this series. The next is Blood Trails, with Jeremy Calen and Hailey Chase, followed by Blood Debt.
September 27, 2018
DNF! 1.5 Bloody Stars!
GOD!!! The convenience of everything! The quick escalation of admiration and affection is distasteful! I just couldn't take the obvious stuff... It's so predictable! There's nothing to maintain my attention... Evil irrelevant minions make my skin cringe.
They're worse than stormtroopers... FYI(nerd info here) stormtroopers die without even aiming at them!
MC's super mutants "just because" no reasonable background and boring. This is aside from the experimentation which is the only interesting subject. The rest of it is quick, bland and irritatingly obvious. DNF at 35%. I can't...
The reviews almost had me fooled... But I find myself resenting everything about this. I don't know... I was so disappointed and baffled at the easy peasy vibe. The lack of real danger or reality! Just not believable... Tristan can solve anything! The heroine is useless and the prison is practically Tristan's playground!
Sorry... Not my cup of tea.
October 6, 2018
6 October 2018: Rating changed to 4 Stars
So I can see why I loved this book. It has so many unique elements and the character building was pretty good. The main thing that drew me to this story was the characters themselves. I felt for them and I wanted their relationship to work. Reading it a second time round, I found a lot of plot holes and flaws. But it still didn’t deviate as to why I liked this book so much. I won’t lie, the first half is a hundred times better than the second half. And elements such as the “special unit organisation” and how they were transported off New Alaska to the fairy tale prison with legit hardly any security was so far fetched it was laughable. But it was still somehow a really enjoyable read. And I will definitely carry on with the next book. I’m especially intrigued by Amelia Chase’s character. What possessed her to experiment on humans in such an altering way. I mean she fricking changed Tristan’s DNA. But she was still one of the good guys? Her character arch better be good because she was such a weird character in that sense.
26 December 2014 Rating: 5 Stars
Just finished reading this book and I have to say, it was ah-May-zing, amazing *sings*.
I loved it from beginning to end. It was just great! I honestly have nothing but praise for it. Actually, that's a lie since I did find one tiny fault, but I understand why the writer did what she did, so I guess I have to suck it up, but I'll get onto that later in my review. Btw- this is quite a long review, so heads up ;)
Gosh, where do I start? The plot was intensifying and it was really good. As as reader, not only did I want to see these amazing characters have their happy ending, but the author made me focused on the world around them. The main characters Tristan and Dara were just soo well developed and captivating that I literally stayed up reading 'Blood Moons' until 3am this morning. Considering the fact that it was quite a long book, I had to take a break and get some sleep. Having now finished it, I'm glad I put it down for the night, because I was able to take in everything with a more conscious mind.. Lol :)
Tristan and Dara had spark and chemistry. You could feel it coming off the page in waves and as the reader I absorbed it all. Although they didn't say "the words" until much later, you could feel the passion they had for one another. I usually can't get through books without having the "heroine" do something stupid that just makes you want to physically shake them, but to be honest, Dara didn't do anything of the sort. She was fairly rational and was a great match for Tristan. Having said this, I do have to slightly contradict myself because about 75% through the book she did something that she HAD to do, but I just hated that she had to do it :(
Why couldn't there have been another way? *heart breaks*.
Basically, spoiler alert when I look back at it, I understand why she did it, and the rest of the story wouldn't have worked out smoothly if she didn't do what she did, but it doesn't mean I have to like it. *huffs in frustration*
Moving on, I really loved the futuristic element to this book. It was amazing!!! I didn't see it coming. It just made everything seem .... Better :) Alongside this, the secondary characters were people who you just couldn't help but love and each brought some worth to the story and made it even more exciting. I do have a love hate thing for Dr Amelia. After everything that she's done to Tristan, no matter how "nice" she is to him, I just don't like her. Sorry guys *shrugs*.
But, I have to say, I loved Pixie's interaction with Tristan, it just made my heart warm. I can't wait to see how these characters are brought to life in the upcoming books. I'd love to say that I'm going to move onto the next one straight away, but I'll just have to put it on my tbr shelf for now, and hopefully I'll have time later to read it :D
Last thing, I promise, TRISTAN IS SUPER HOT AND I WANT HIM AS MY BOOK BOYFRIEND , also, go read it! *winks ;)* And let me know what you think :)
Oh, I just realised I forgot to mention, I still don't know what the blood moon is :O
Is it just me, or was it not clearly addressed?
So I can see why I loved this book. It has so many unique elements and the character building was pretty good. The main thing that drew me to this story was the characters themselves. I felt for them and I wanted their relationship to work. Reading it a second time round, I found a lot of plot holes and flaws. But it still didn’t deviate as to why I liked this book so much. I won’t lie, the first half is a hundred times better than the second half. And elements such as the “special unit organisation” and how they were transported off New Alaska to the fairy tale prison with legit hardly any security was so far fetched it was laughable. But it was still somehow a really enjoyable read. And I will definitely carry on with the next book. I’m especially intrigued by Amelia Chase’s character. What possessed her to experiment on humans in such an altering way. I mean she fricking changed Tristan’s DNA. But she was still one of the good guys? Her character arch better be good because she was such a weird character in that sense.
26 December 2014 Rating: 5 Stars
Just finished reading this book and I have to say, it was ah-May-zing, amazing *sings*.
I loved it from beginning to end. It was just great! I honestly have nothing but praise for it. Actually, that's a lie since I did find one tiny fault, but I understand why the writer did what she did, so I guess I have to suck it up, but I'll get onto that later in my review. Btw- this is quite a long review, so heads up ;)
Gosh, where do I start? The plot was intensifying and it was really good. As as reader, not only did I want to see these amazing characters have their happy ending, but the author made me focused on the world around them. The main characters Tristan and Dara were just soo well developed and captivating that I literally stayed up reading 'Blood Moons' until 3am this morning. Considering the fact that it was quite a long book, I had to take a break and get some sleep. Having now finished it, I'm glad I put it down for the night, because I was able to take in everything with a more conscious mind.. Lol :)
Tristan and Dara had spark and chemistry. You could feel it coming off the page in waves and as the reader I absorbed it all. Although they didn't say "the words" until much later, you could feel the passion they had for one another. I usually can't get through books without having the "heroine" do something stupid that just makes you want to physically shake them, but to be honest, Dara didn't do anything of the sort. She was fairly rational and was a great match for Tristan. Having said this, I do have to slightly contradict myself because about 75% through the book she did something that she HAD to do, but I just hated that she had to do it :(
Why couldn't there have been another way? *heart breaks*.
Basically, spoiler alert when I look back at it, I understand why she did it, and the rest of the story wouldn't have worked out smoothly if she didn't do what she did, but it doesn't mean I have to like it. *huffs in frustration*
Moving on, I really loved the futuristic element to this book. It was amazing!!! I didn't see it coming. It just made everything seem .... Better :) Alongside this, the secondary characters were people who you just couldn't help but love and each brought some worth to the story and made it even more exciting. I do have a love hate thing for Dr Amelia. After everything that she's done to Tristan, no matter how "nice" she is to him, I just don't like her. Sorry guys *shrugs*.
But, I have to say, I loved Pixie's interaction with Tristan, it just made my heart warm. I can't wait to see how these characters are brought to life in the upcoming books. I'd love to say that I'm going to move onto the next one straight away, but I'll just have to put it on my tbr shelf for now, and hopefully I'll have time later to read it :D
Last thing, I promise, TRISTAN IS SUPER HOT AND I WANT HIM AS MY BOOK BOYFRIEND , also, go read it! *winks ;)* And let me know what you think :)
Oh, I just realised I forgot to mention, I still don't know what the blood moon is :O
Is it just me, or was it not clearly addressed?
February 11, 2011
3.5 Stars
Dara having reported a murder finds her self in jail, in a cell with Tristan. Sensing that she is a telepath like him Tristan sets out to try and protect her and teach her to harness her gift so she might just service there. All the while the feeling and need for each other is growing stronger day by day. Till there is now no way Tristan can deny his need for her.
He fears what other might do to harm her when he's not around never realizing he may be a bigger threat to her. After testing on inmates for government purposes Tristan is experiencing a few side effects. Is growing claws and hair on your hands normal? These experiments just might be making him a bit less than human with only Dara to save him.
Dara is in need of her own saving, once the killer gets a read on her mind and sets his sites on having her.
The story was different , it had a few moments that were very sexy and hot. I of course fell in love with Tristan. I thought the connection between himself and Dara was amazing, I loved how they clicked and equity needed each other. I did feel the book moved a bit slow in sections. I think there was times when too much description was used . But the over all story was entertaining and. I enjoyed the read.
-Athenna
Dara tried to do right thing by reporting the murder she witnessed in her mind but with no proof and a public outcry for justice, Dara is charged with the crime and sent to a maxim security prison on another planet. In the roughest section of the prison, Dara finds an unlikely alley in the most frighteningly handsome man she's ever met.
Tristan just wants to do his time with as little interaction with others as possible. Dara being his cellmate throws a wrench in that plan. She awakens his inner beast and emotions doesn't want to feel. Struggling to keep his sanity amongst secret prison experiments, Tristan will not only need to protect Dara from the murders and rapists inmates but also himself and the killer that has again found his way into Dara's mind.
Dara is a telepath and doesn't have any experiences keeping the voices of others out of her mind. When she is sent to the prison on New Alaska, she passes up the chance to go to one of the less violent floors in the prison and instead is drawn to the most dangerous level. There she meets a not too happy Tristan who knows what she can do and helps her build her mental defenses. Tristan is hard on his training but he cares for her and makes sure it's known to the other prisoners that she is his.
The relationship between Dara and Tristan is 'I want to but shouldn't' at first and then moves to 'if anyone touches Dara, I'll kill them'. It's a dark and sexy relationship between these two. Tristan has been experimented on and has started shifting and his animal side sees Dara as his and no one else. It's a battle between wanting her close by and wanting her away from him in fear he'll hurt her. But when a killing takes Dara away from him, Tristan will stop and nothing to get her back.
Blood Moons is a nice blend of sci fi and paranormal romance. In the future the prisons have men and women being housed together. I thought Dara got off pretty easy for being in such a violent prison. Not that I wished something horrible to happen to her but these people terrible and you'd think more would have tried to get past Tristan to her. The book also starts off pretty slow but the pace does pick up and I did end up enjoying the book. Dara and Tristan are an unlikely couple but they worked and they both deserved their happily ever after.
-Stephanie
Dara having reported a murder finds her self in jail, in a cell with Tristan. Sensing that she is a telepath like him Tristan sets out to try and protect her and teach her to harness her gift so she might just service there. All the while the feeling and need for each other is growing stronger day by day. Till there is now no way Tristan can deny his need for her.
He fears what other might do to harm her when he's not around never realizing he may be a bigger threat to her. After testing on inmates for government purposes Tristan is experiencing a few side effects. Is growing claws and hair on your hands normal? These experiments just might be making him a bit less than human with only Dara to save him.
Dara is in need of her own saving, once the killer gets a read on her mind and sets his sites on having her.
The story was different , it had a few moments that were very sexy and hot. I of course fell in love with Tristan. I thought the connection between himself and Dara was amazing, I loved how they clicked and equity needed each other. I did feel the book moved a bit slow in sections. I think there was times when too much description was used . But the over all story was entertaining and. I enjoyed the read.
-Athenna
Dara tried to do right thing by reporting the murder she witnessed in her mind but with no proof and a public outcry for justice, Dara is charged with the crime and sent to a maxim security prison on another planet. In the roughest section of the prison, Dara finds an unlikely alley in the most frighteningly handsome man she's ever met.
Tristan just wants to do his time with as little interaction with others as possible. Dara being his cellmate throws a wrench in that plan. She awakens his inner beast and emotions doesn't want to feel. Struggling to keep his sanity amongst secret prison experiments, Tristan will not only need to protect Dara from the murders and rapists inmates but also himself and the killer that has again found his way into Dara's mind.
Dara is a telepath and doesn't have any experiences keeping the voices of others out of her mind. When she is sent to the prison on New Alaska, she passes up the chance to go to one of the less violent floors in the prison and instead is drawn to the most dangerous level. There she meets a not too happy Tristan who knows what she can do and helps her build her mental defenses. Tristan is hard on his training but he cares for her and makes sure it's known to the other prisoners that she is his.
The relationship between Dara and Tristan is 'I want to but shouldn't' at first and then moves to 'if anyone touches Dara, I'll kill them'. It's a dark and sexy relationship between these two. Tristan has been experimented on and has started shifting and his animal side sees Dara as his and no one else. It's a battle between wanting her close by and wanting her away from him in fear he'll hurt her. But when a killing takes Dara away from him, Tristan will stop and nothing to get her back.
Blood Moons is a nice blend of sci fi and paranormal romance. In the future the prisons have men and women being housed together. I thought Dara got off pretty easy for being in such a violent prison. Not that I wished something horrible to happen to her but these people terrible and you'd think more would have tried to get past Tristan to her. The book also starts off pretty slow but the pace does pick up and I did end up enjoying the book. Dara and Tristan are an unlikely couple but they worked and they both deserved their happily ever after.
-Stephanie
August 31, 2011
Oh wow, what an utterly engaging, well written, fascinating book.
Dara has been sent to prison for a crime she didn’t commit. She’s a telepath and knew about a murder. She telephoned the police in order to have the killer caught because she knew he wasn’t far from the crime scene, only to be accused of the killing herself. Upon her arrival at the prison, housed on another planet, she has to make a choice which part of the prison she resides in. She chooses one where there are mainly men who have committed the most heinous crimes because it feels the right thing to do. She can’t explain why that’s so, but it becomes apparent later in the tale. She trusted her instincts and ended up sharing a cell with a man named Tristan.
Tristan has been in the prison for years, spent most of it in solitude—his choice—and has been one of many who have been used for experiments. It doesn’t much matter to him what the experiments are about or for when incarcerated with no hope of ever getting out. Being a guinea pig isn’t a problem. Until he meets Dara, who speaks to him in a way he hadn’t expected. Speaks, as in, she calls to him on some other level he’s never experienced before. He doesn’t understand it, and when he discovers she’s a telepath too, things start to change inside him. He gains feelings for her that go beyond just wanting to protect her from the other men. It’s like she’s his mate, one that fate sent him…
They form a bond, work together to enhance Dara’s telepath skills, and then things really start to get wild. Tristan changes in more ways than one, in ways that shock the life out of him and Dara—and also the doctor, who had begun to believe her tests and experiments on him just weren’t working. The doctor tells Tristan he will be leaving the prison to go to Niren Colony, and that Dara will also be going, and here is where Dara’s nightmare begins anew. She is visited in her mind by the killer again, and authorities want her help in tracking him. The scenes where she’s in the killer’s mind are exceptionally good.
I won’t reveal any more, because it will spoil the read for you, but what I will say is that the prison scenes fascinated me; the fact that they are based on another planet was also a new thing for me to read about. What follows once they reach Niren Colony is a fast-paced, engrossing set of scenes that meant I couldn’t put the book down. Fantastic writing, fantastic plot, and a wonderful hero and heroine with the ability to really get under your skin.
Best Bits: A fucking miracle—a quiet woman.
…he was genetically a whale at the time the scan was performed.
…he forced the weaker prisoners to wash those parts of him he couldn’t reach in the shower. (Eww, nasty bad guy.)
…new and exotic scents from skin folds that hadn’t been touched by air in years. (More from the nasty bad guy. Shiver.)
…his mouth bulging with fangs, the upper lips curved, almost split like a cat’s. (Excellent image!)
It bore repeating. (LOL)
…and made a mental note to read it in the future. (Aww.)
Verdict: Excellent. A top-notch read that held me spellbound. I really enjoyed it a great deal and look forward to more books in this series. I’d recommend this to anyone and everyone. The “cage” scenes are brilliant, but my faves are those in the killer’s mind—especially the one where the “crack” occurs. You’ll just have to read it to find out what I mean!
Dara has been sent to prison for a crime she didn’t commit. She’s a telepath and knew about a murder. She telephoned the police in order to have the killer caught because she knew he wasn’t far from the crime scene, only to be accused of the killing herself. Upon her arrival at the prison, housed on another planet, she has to make a choice which part of the prison she resides in. She chooses one where there are mainly men who have committed the most heinous crimes because it feels the right thing to do. She can’t explain why that’s so, but it becomes apparent later in the tale. She trusted her instincts and ended up sharing a cell with a man named Tristan.
Tristan has been in the prison for years, spent most of it in solitude—his choice—and has been one of many who have been used for experiments. It doesn’t much matter to him what the experiments are about or for when incarcerated with no hope of ever getting out. Being a guinea pig isn’t a problem. Until he meets Dara, who speaks to him in a way he hadn’t expected. Speaks, as in, she calls to him on some other level he’s never experienced before. He doesn’t understand it, and when he discovers she’s a telepath too, things start to change inside him. He gains feelings for her that go beyond just wanting to protect her from the other men. It’s like she’s his mate, one that fate sent him…
They form a bond, work together to enhance Dara’s telepath skills, and then things really start to get wild. Tristan changes in more ways than one, in ways that shock the life out of him and Dara—and also the doctor, who had begun to believe her tests and experiments on him just weren’t working. The doctor tells Tristan he will be leaving the prison to go to Niren Colony, and that Dara will also be going, and here is where Dara’s nightmare begins anew. She is visited in her mind by the killer again, and authorities want her help in tracking him. The scenes where she’s in the killer’s mind are exceptionally good.
I won’t reveal any more, because it will spoil the read for you, but what I will say is that the prison scenes fascinated me; the fact that they are based on another planet was also a new thing for me to read about. What follows once they reach Niren Colony is a fast-paced, engrossing set of scenes that meant I couldn’t put the book down. Fantastic writing, fantastic plot, and a wonderful hero and heroine with the ability to really get under your skin.
Best Bits: A fucking miracle—a quiet woman.
…he was genetically a whale at the time the scan was performed.
…he forced the weaker prisoners to wash those parts of him he couldn’t reach in the shower. (Eww, nasty bad guy.)
…new and exotic scents from skin folds that hadn’t been touched by air in years. (More from the nasty bad guy. Shiver.)
…his mouth bulging with fangs, the upper lips curved, almost split like a cat’s. (Excellent image!)
It bore repeating. (LOL)
…and made a mental note to read it in the future. (Aww.)
Verdict: Excellent. A top-notch read that held me spellbound. I really enjoyed it a great deal and look forward to more books in this series. I’d recommend this to anyone and everyone. The “cage” scenes are brilliant, but my faves are those in the killer’s mind—especially the one where the “crack” occurs. You’ll just have to read it to find out what I mean!
February 1, 2012
I have the wonderful privilege of reviewing Blood Moons by Alianne Donnely. As I read through this book, I was immediately captivated by the main characters: Dara and Tristan. Dara, though she appears fragile, has an inner strength that I admire. Tristan, though he tries to portray the dangerous criminal to Dara, shows sensitivity and determination that had me hooked immediately. I was appalled at the reasons for Dara’s imprisonment, loved her determination to make the best of her circumstances, and thrilled at the budding relationship between her and Tristan.
I was entranced by this book from the first sentence to the last word! I couldn’t stop reading! Tristan’s struggles and Dara’s stability drew me into the story along with them. I could almost imagine being right there experiencing with them first hand. Alianne Donnelly is definitely on my list of new favorite authors! I highly recommend this book to anyone with a love of fiction, fantasy, adventure, sexy shifters and romance! Excellent work Ms. Donnelly.
I was entranced by this book from the first sentence to the last word! I couldn’t stop reading! Tristan’s struggles and Dara’s stability drew me into the story along with them. I could almost imagine being right there experiencing with them first hand. Alianne Donnelly is definitely on my list of new favorite authors! I highly recommend this book to anyone with a love of fiction, fantasy, adventure, sexy shifters and romance! Excellent work Ms. Donnelly.
April 20, 2015
This book started off really strong, and kind of dwindled down after they left the prison.
It felt like there were 3 separate story lines all in one; the prison and the experiments taking place there, Hunt turning into a tiger, and then Dara catching the murderer. All 3 of the stories didn't quite mesh together in a smooth way, IMO. The prison world seemed just to be for Dara and Hunt to meet...there was a brief mention of the reproduction experiment at the end of the book, but that was it. Hunt being a tiger didn't seem to play a critical role either, the whole plot could probably have existed without it.
Also, for being a futuristic novel, there wasn't a very futuristic feel. Aside from there being multiple planets and taking shuttle transports, it felt like everything was taking place in current day Earth.
However, I did really enjoy the book. Mostly because of Hunt and the initial development between him and Dara while they were at the prison.
It felt like there were 3 separate story lines all in one; the prison and the experiments taking place there, Hunt turning into a tiger, and then Dara catching the murderer. All 3 of the stories didn't quite mesh together in a smooth way, IMO. The prison world seemed just to be for Dara and Hunt to meet...there was a brief mention of the reproduction experiment at the end of the book, but that was it. Hunt being a tiger didn't seem to play a critical role either, the whole plot could probably have existed without it.
Also, for being a futuristic novel, there wasn't a very futuristic feel. Aside from there being multiple planets and taking shuttle transports, it felt like everything was taking place in current day Earth.
However, I did really enjoy the book. Mostly because of Hunt and the initial development between him and Dara while they were at the prison.
November 17, 2011
How I wanted to like this story, but the heroin was just missing something. Brains? Strength? Prison setting, a plus. Dangerous, sexy but protective shapeshifter inmate buddy, still a plus. Where did everything go wrong? The minute they escaped, everything turned to crap and I lost interest in the story. First part when they were in prison, was great. Danger, sexual tension and a budding romance. After the escape just blah.
August 28, 2011
Blood Moons by Alianne Donnelly is an amazing, exciting novel with plenty of drama and a thrilling romance. The story is wildly entertaining and highly addictive. Paranormal fans should not miss the first installment in the Blood Series.
Dara has an ability that has caused much grief in her life. An extraordinary power of telepathy has made her life socially awkward and emotionally overwhelming. Then one night she experiences a serial killer murdering his latest victim. When she reports the murder, Dara ends up getting arrested for this crime which she didn’t commit. Then to make matters worse, she is sent to one of the most dangerous prisons in which her roommate is one of the only prisoners whose thoughts she cannot read. As if that isn’t confusing enough, Dara is strangely attracted to her roommate Tristan and quickly realizes he is more than meets the eye.
Tristan is disgusted at the thought of being in the same prison cell as a woman but is ultimately resolved to making his best effort to ignore her. He immediately realizes she is a telepath like him, but unlike him, has little or no control over her power. Eventually, Tristan’s will to keep his distance is broken as he becomes increasingly fascinated by this interesting female. Dara’s presence has brought out the animal within Tristan...one itching to force it’s way to the surface and claim it's mate.
There is very little or new to say about Donnelly’s novel Blood Moons except for the fact that I loved it! This novel is set in the year 3028 and I was a bit apprehensive since Sci-Fi or futuristic novels are not really my cup of tea. Yet, after reading the novel and enjoying it immensely, I would have to say this novel is more along the lines of a paranormal and isn’t overwhelmingly different from a contemporary paranormal.
I think the most interesting character in Blood Moons is Tristan. Looking at the character objectively, I would say there are readers who would hate him and readers like me who love him. When the novel first starts, he comes across as the ‘bad boy’ alpha that no one should mess with. Ultimately, he is Dara’s protector...doing anything and everything to keep her safe and it’s increasingly attractive. Near the end, his shape shifter side was completely obsessed with Dara. I can see how some may view this as a turn off, but his possessive nature was something I loved to read about. It made Dara and Tristan’s relationship so much more interesting.
Honestly, after reading the novel, Tristan's attitude toward Dara was exactly what she needed. For a long time now, she had been lost and alone because she had no idea how to control her ability. I wouldn't describe her as 'weak' exactly, but she was lost and desperate for the connection she found with Tristan. You could find realistic faults with each character, but together they were perfect!
Shortly after I started Blood Moons, I found it difficult to put down. There is plenty of action throughout and a passionate romance that keeps you coming back for more. It certainly reminded me why I love the paranormal romance so much. Most of the dialogue between the two leads, was just breath-taking and terribly romantic. If you’re looking for a fresh and new paranormal series, you should start here with Blood Moons. If the rest are like this first installment, then it promises to be a fantastic series.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
Dara has an ability that has caused much grief in her life. An extraordinary power of telepathy has made her life socially awkward and emotionally overwhelming. Then one night she experiences a serial killer murdering his latest victim. When she reports the murder, Dara ends up getting arrested for this crime which she didn’t commit. Then to make matters worse, she is sent to one of the most dangerous prisons in which her roommate is one of the only prisoners whose thoughts she cannot read. As if that isn’t confusing enough, Dara is strangely attracted to her roommate Tristan and quickly realizes he is more than meets the eye.
Tristan is disgusted at the thought of being in the same prison cell as a woman but is ultimately resolved to making his best effort to ignore her. He immediately realizes she is a telepath like him, but unlike him, has little or no control over her power. Eventually, Tristan’s will to keep his distance is broken as he becomes increasingly fascinated by this interesting female. Dara’s presence has brought out the animal within Tristan...one itching to force it’s way to the surface and claim it's mate.
There is very little or new to say about Donnelly’s novel Blood Moons except for the fact that I loved it! This novel is set in the year 3028 and I was a bit apprehensive since Sci-Fi or futuristic novels are not really my cup of tea. Yet, after reading the novel and enjoying it immensely, I would have to say this novel is more along the lines of a paranormal and isn’t overwhelmingly different from a contemporary paranormal.
I think the most interesting character in Blood Moons is Tristan. Looking at the character objectively, I would say there are readers who would hate him and readers like me who love him. When the novel first starts, he comes across as the ‘bad boy’ alpha that no one should mess with. Ultimately, he is Dara’s protector...doing anything and everything to keep her safe and it’s increasingly attractive. Near the end, his shape shifter side was completely obsessed with Dara. I can see how some may view this as a turn off, but his possessive nature was something I loved to read about. It made Dara and Tristan’s relationship so much more interesting.
Honestly, after reading the novel, Tristan's attitude toward Dara was exactly what she needed. For a long time now, she had been lost and alone because she had no idea how to control her ability. I wouldn't describe her as 'weak' exactly, but she was lost and desperate for the connection she found with Tristan. You could find realistic faults with each character, but together they were perfect!
Shortly after I started Blood Moons, I found it difficult to put down. There is plenty of action throughout and a passionate romance that keeps you coming back for more. It certainly reminded me why I love the paranormal romance so much. Most of the dialogue between the two leads, was just breath-taking and terribly romantic. If you’re looking for a fresh and new paranormal series, you should start here with Blood Moons. If the rest are like this first installment, then it promises to be a fantastic series.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
May 19, 2012
We start this book off with Dara, She is a telepath and she See's into the mind of a serial killer as he is killing someone. Dara then phones the police and they don't find the killer and Dara is then charged with killing the victim. When she is sent to jail she gets a choice of blocks in the jail and she seems to be drawn to the most dangerous block in the whole prison. when she gets to her cell she find that she is sharing with Tristan. Over the next couple of days Dara realises why she was drawn to that block in the prison and it is none other then the fact that Tristan is a telepath to. When she sees him she is shaken because he scares her half to death but over time Dara learns she can trust him and he helps her work on putting Shields around her mind and he helps her work on using her telepathy. things start to go strange for the pair and Dara finds out that Tristan holds more secrets then she thinks. and finds out the prison have been doing experiments on him. And this leads to even more complications for them.
Tristan, a prisoner of wolf block, he has been in the prison for many years and he has got a deep and dark past. He doesn't like mixing with other people but all that changes when Dara is placed in his cell, he can tell right away that she is a telepath and is unsure of what he thinks of the situation he's been put in. Tristan tries to keep Dara from the other inmates and tries to keep her safe and he helps her deal with the telepathy and helps make her stronger.Over time Tristan find that he is attracted to Dara and that she in turn is attracted to him, the two form a bond. When Tristan finds out some more details on the experiments that have been happening to him he starts to understand why his feeling for Dara have turn all possessive. The two are moved on to a different place for more experiments to be done and for Tristan to deal with what is happening to him.
Later in the book Dara returns to earth to help catch the killer that she was mistaken for, and she manages to get inside his mind. and form a link with him. Tristan is not far behind Dara as he escapes and follows her to earth so that he can be near and protect her all this goes wrong and Dara ends up in a coma and Tristan sits by her bed side waiting for her to wake up.
Im not to sure where to start with my feelings on this book. When I was got it I was really doubtful that this book would be my kind of thing. I put off and put off reading it because I just couldn't bring my self to read it. But what a really big surprise when I got started and I was gripped right from the start. The thought of a mixed prison where males and female Can share cells was such a different idea and the whole experiments thing and telepath. This book was so original and exciting to read. There was fighting scenes and funny scenes and even lovable scenes. I know iv said this about books before but there really is something for everyone with this book. its crossed between sci-fi, PNR and romance. If you havnt read it before then please take my advice and give it a try. I was so happy Id give it a try but really sad when it was over. I loved how possesive Tristan had become for Dara and how much love the two had for each other. I think the auhtor has an amazing way with words and im really happy I got the chance to read it.
Tristan, a prisoner of wolf block, he has been in the prison for many years and he has got a deep and dark past. He doesn't like mixing with other people but all that changes when Dara is placed in his cell, he can tell right away that she is a telepath and is unsure of what he thinks of the situation he's been put in. Tristan tries to keep Dara from the other inmates and tries to keep her safe and he helps her deal with the telepathy and helps make her stronger.Over time Tristan find that he is attracted to Dara and that she in turn is attracted to him, the two form a bond. When Tristan finds out some more details on the experiments that have been happening to him he starts to understand why his feeling for Dara have turn all possessive. The two are moved on to a different place for more experiments to be done and for Tristan to deal with what is happening to him.
Later in the book Dara returns to earth to help catch the killer that she was mistaken for, and she manages to get inside his mind. and form a link with him. Tristan is not far behind Dara as he escapes and follows her to earth so that he can be near and protect her all this goes wrong and Dara ends up in a coma and Tristan sits by her bed side waiting for her to wake up.
Im not to sure where to start with my feelings on this book. When I was got it I was really doubtful that this book would be my kind of thing. I put off and put off reading it because I just couldn't bring my self to read it. But what a really big surprise when I got started and I was gripped right from the start. The thought of a mixed prison where males and female Can share cells was such a different idea and the whole experiments thing and telepath. This book was so original and exciting to read. There was fighting scenes and funny scenes and even lovable scenes. I know iv said this about books before but there really is something for everyone with this book. its crossed between sci-fi, PNR and romance. If you havnt read it before then please take my advice and give it a try. I was so happy Id give it a try but really sad when it was over. I loved how possesive Tristan had become for Dara and how much love the two had for each other. I think the auhtor has an amazing way with words and im really happy I got the chance to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2011
Dara Frost tried to stop a murderer by calling the police after ’dreaming’ the incident. Instead Dara has been sentenced to New Alaska, a maximum security prison planet. There she chooses wolf block, where the most dangerous of criminals are kept. For some reason it calls to her. There, she has to share a cell with Tristan Hunt, a big, scary, sexy alpha male. Dara finds him very attractive and struggles to keep her eyes off him. Tristan fights his baser urges and does his best not to get closer to her. Although a little afraid of Hunt, Dara feels safe with him. Hunt is trying to serve his time and has as little interaction with others as he possibly can. Dara’s arrival awakens a deep protectiveness in him. At first he is irritated with her presence and his reactions to her. To Dara’s surprise, Hunt takes her under his heavily muscled protection.
Both Dara and Tristan are telepaths and it adds an interesting aspect to their connection. Dara is a bit of a loner and considers herself broken. Tristan teaches her to harness her telepathy and this is how they form a unique bond. Although they both know a relationship of any kind between them is ridiculous under the circumstances, they can’t fight the pull they feel towards each other. I really enjoyed how their relationship starts out. Hunt is yummy, and I’d love to get my hands on him. He struggles with feelings she awakens in him, especially a stupid, fierce need to keep her beside him at all times. Dara feels he is just using her, and is waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Tristan has undergone genetic experiments, which are playing havoc with his mind and body. His protective streak borders on obsessive, and when he begins changing her fights the feeling of wanting Dara close but also wanting to push her away for fear of hurting her. Dara is fascinated by his change and wants to help him in any way she can. When Dara heads back to Earth to help stop the true murderer, Tristan is beside himself with worry and fear. He tracks her down but the murderer catches up with Dara and kidnaps her. Tristan will stop at nothing to get her back. He utilizes all his new abilities to get her back.
Blood Moons is a sci-fi romance, with a little paranormal thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed the settings the author created, but I did find the futuristic aspects a little vague. It may just be the sci-fi nerd in me, but I found the closeness of some descriptions of items etc too close to what we have today, and it just didn’t ring true with the time era that was created. I could picture the entire story, with the vagueness letting my mind run wild with imaginings. Dara and Tristan seem so unlikely a couple but they work in the end. There wasn’t much, if any that I found annoying in either character. I just love Tristan! Lol. Blood Moons nearly kept me up past my bedtime, and if I didn’t have to work the next day I think I would have stayed up all night reading. It’s a sexy, exciting and intriguing read. Pick it up if you’re a fan of Rhyannon Byrd’s Primal Instincts or Jennifer Ashley’s Shifters Unbound.
Both Dara and Tristan are telepaths and it adds an interesting aspect to their connection. Dara is a bit of a loner and considers herself broken. Tristan teaches her to harness her telepathy and this is how they form a unique bond. Although they both know a relationship of any kind between them is ridiculous under the circumstances, they can’t fight the pull they feel towards each other. I really enjoyed how their relationship starts out. Hunt is yummy, and I’d love to get my hands on him. He struggles with feelings she awakens in him, especially a stupid, fierce need to keep her beside him at all times. Dara feels he is just using her, and is waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Tristan has undergone genetic experiments, which are playing havoc with his mind and body. His protective streak borders on obsessive, and when he begins changing her fights the feeling of wanting Dara close but also wanting to push her away for fear of hurting her. Dara is fascinated by his change and wants to help him in any way she can. When Dara heads back to Earth to help stop the true murderer, Tristan is beside himself with worry and fear. He tracks her down but the murderer catches up with Dara and kidnaps her. Tristan will stop at nothing to get her back. He utilizes all his new abilities to get her back.
Blood Moons is a sci-fi romance, with a little paranormal thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed the settings the author created, but I did find the futuristic aspects a little vague. It may just be the sci-fi nerd in me, but I found the closeness of some descriptions of items etc too close to what we have today, and it just didn’t ring true with the time era that was created. I could picture the entire story, with the vagueness letting my mind run wild with imaginings. Dara and Tristan seem so unlikely a couple but they work in the end. There wasn’t much, if any that I found annoying in either character. I just love Tristan! Lol. Blood Moons nearly kept me up past my bedtime, and if I didn’t have to work the next day I think I would have stayed up all night reading. It’s a sexy, exciting and intriguing read. Pick it up if you’re a fan of Rhyannon Byrd’s Primal Instincts or Jennifer Ashley’s Shifters Unbound.
November 5, 2010
Dara is being sent to prison on a planet light years away from Earth called New Alaska. The former librarian was headed to a prison cell block where the worst types of criminals are sequestered. Her trial sentencing left her wishing for an execution instead of an extended prison stay especially when she is oriented to the ways and people of New Alaska. Her uncontrolled telepathic abilities will only make it worse, but upon meeting her new cellmate, she can't let go of the instinct that he was going to be her salvation... her hero.
Tristan has spent the last decade in prison for murder, but a genetic mutation has landed him as a prison lab rat. The side effects include bursts of rage, changes to his physical attributes, and unbelievable strength that can only be matched by his telepathic abilities. As fate would have it, the unexpected arrival of a female cellmate makes the beast inside him come roaring to the surface. He begins to question his humanity now more than ever, but can't bring himself to let her go.
Ms. Donnelly did an amazing job world building and crafting a story that takes us to a bold future with an even bolder romance. I honestly can't express how much this book affected me. The synopsis was intriguing enough, but the story turned out to be much more than I expected. Tristan and Dara are each others greatest strength and weakness. Before their meeting I believe they just sort of existed, never actually living. Although Tristan was more than capable of protecting Dara from any threat be it physical or mental, he couldn't overcome his fear that he might be the one to unintentionally hurt her. Dara on the other hand, was afraid that she wouldn't be telepathically strong enough to reclaim her life. Always having to rely on Tristan to come to her rescue when she has always led an independent life. Their fears ultimately separate them and the journey back becomes deadly as danger looms in many forms. They essentially create their own world, accessible only through their telepathic link where they could be together even while light years apart. Their telepathic bonding added an emotional depth to the story and created a beautiful word-painting.
I cried towards the end and not just because of the intense, anticlimactic emotional scenes between Dara and Tristan, but also because I didn't want it to end. I think they just might have stolen the lead in my favorite fictional couples list. It would also help to point out that Dara best describes Tristan as, “...the most amazing, frustrating, incredibly intense and fantastically hot man on the planet.” I couldn't agree more with that depiction.
Recommended reading for fans of... well I think Ms. Donnelly wrote it best, “... at the core was the tale of a man and woman, a chance meeting, and a fated love that overcame all adversity.”
Review also posted @ Happily Ever After Reviews:
http://www.hea-reviews.blogspot.com/
Tristan has spent the last decade in prison for murder, but a genetic mutation has landed him as a prison lab rat. The side effects include bursts of rage, changes to his physical attributes, and unbelievable strength that can only be matched by his telepathic abilities. As fate would have it, the unexpected arrival of a female cellmate makes the beast inside him come roaring to the surface. He begins to question his humanity now more than ever, but can't bring himself to let her go.
Ms. Donnelly did an amazing job world building and crafting a story that takes us to a bold future with an even bolder romance. I honestly can't express how much this book affected me. The synopsis was intriguing enough, but the story turned out to be much more than I expected. Tristan and Dara are each others greatest strength and weakness. Before their meeting I believe they just sort of existed, never actually living. Although Tristan was more than capable of protecting Dara from any threat be it physical or mental, he couldn't overcome his fear that he might be the one to unintentionally hurt her. Dara on the other hand, was afraid that she wouldn't be telepathically strong enough to reclaim her life. Always having to rely on Tristan to come to her rescue when she has always led an independent life. Their fears ultimately separate them and the journey back becomes deadly as danger looms in many forms. They essentially create their own world, accessible only through their telepathic link where they could be together even while light years apart. Their telepathic bonding added an emotional depth to the story and created a beautiful word-painting.
I cried towards the end and not just because of the intense, anticlimactic emotional scenes between Dara and Tristan, but also because I didn't want it to end. I think they just might have stolen the lead in my favorite fictional couples list. It would also help to point out that Dara best describes Tristan as, “...the most amazing, frustrating, incredibly intense and fantastically hot man on the planet.” I couldn't agree more with that depiction.
Recommended reading for fans of... well I think Ms. Donnelly wrote it best, “... at the core was the tale of a man and woman, a chance meeting, and a fated love that overcame all adversity.”
Review also posted @ Happily Ever After Reviews:
http://www.hea-reviews.blogspot.com/
November 14, 2010
Yadkny's Review
Dara is being sent to prison on a planet light years away from Earth called New Alaska. The former librarian was headed to a prison cell block where the worst types of criminals are sequestered. Her trial sentencing left her wishing for an execution instead of an extended prison stay especially when she is oriented to the ways and people of New Alaska. Her uncontrolled telepathic abilities will only make it worse, but upon meeting her new cellmate, she can't let go of the instinct that he was going to be her salvation... her hero.
Tristan has spent the last decade in prison for murder, but a genetic mutation has landed him as a prison lab rat. The side effects include bursts of rage, changes to his physical attributes, and unbelievable strength that can only be matched by his telepathic abilities. As fate would have it, the unexpected arrival of a female cellmate makes the beast inside him come roaring to the surface. He begins to question his humanity now more than ever, but can't bring himself to let her go.
Ms. Donnelly did an amazing job world building and crafting a story that takes us to a bold future with an even bolder romance. I honestly can't express how much this book affected me. The synopsis was intriguing enough, but the story turned out to be much more than I expected. Tristan and Dara are each others greatest strength and weakness. Before their meeting I believe they just sort of existed, never actually living. Although Tristan was more than capable of protecting Dara from any threat be it physical or mental, he couldn't overcome his fear that he might be the one to unintentionally hurt her. Dara on the other hand, was afraid that she wouldn't be telepathically strong enough to reclaim her life. Always having to rely on Tristan to come to her rescue when she has always led an independent life. Their fears ultimately separate them and the journey back becomes deadly as danger looms in many forms. They essentially create their own world, accessible only through their telepathic link where they could be together even while light years apart. Their telepathic bonding added an emotional depth to the story and created a beautiful word-painting.
I cried towards the end and not just because of the intense, anticlimactic emotional scenes between Dara and Tristan, but also because I didn't want it to end. I think they just might have stolen the lead in my favorite fictional couples list. It would also help to point out that Dara best describes Tristan as, “...the most amazing, frustrating, incredibly intense and fantastically hot man on the planet.” I couldn't agree more with that depiction.
Recommended reading for fans of... well I think Ms. Donnelly wrote it best, “... at the core was the tale of a man and woman, a chance meeting, and a fated love that overcame all adversity.”
5 Tea Cups and a Recommended Read!
Dara is being sent to prison on a planet light years away from Earth called New Alaska. The former librarian was headed to a prison cell block where the worst types of criminals are sequestered. Her trial sentencing left her wishing for an execution instead of an extended prison stay especially when she is oriented to the ways and people of New Alaska. Her uncontrolled telepathic abilities will only make it worse, but upon meeting her new cellmate, she can't let go of the instinct that he was going to be her salvation... her hero.
Tristan has spent the last decade in prison for murder, but a genetic mutation has landed him as a prison lab rat. The side effects include bursts of rage, changes to his physical attributes, and unbelievable strength that can only be matched by his telepathic abilities. As fate would have it, the unexpected arrival of a female cellmate makes the beast inside him come roaring to the surface. He begins to question his humanity now more than ever, but can't bring himself to let her go.
Ms. Donnelly did an amazing job world building and crafting a story that takes us to a bold future with an even bolder romance. I honestly can't express how much this book affected me. The synopsis was intriguing enough, but the story turned out to be much more than I expected. Tristan and Dara are each others greatest strength and weakness. Before their meeting I believe they just sort of existed, never actually living. Although Tristan was more than capable of protecting Dara from any threat be it physical or mental, he couldn't overcome his fear that he might be the one to unintentionally hurt her. Dara on the other hand, was afraid that she wouldn't be telepathically strong enough to reclaim her life. Always having to rely on Tristan to come to her rescue when she has always led an independent life. Their fears ultimately separate them and the journey back becomes deadly as danger looms in many forms. They essentially create their own world, accessible only through their telepathic link where they could be together even while light years apart. Their telepathic bonding added an emotional depth to the story and created a beautiful word-painting.
I cried towards the end and not just because of the intense, anticlimactic emotional scenes between Dara and Tristan, but also because I didn't want it to end. I think they just might have stolen the lead in my favorite fictional couples list. It would also help to point out that Dara best describes Tristan as, “...the most amazing, frustrating, incredibly intense and fantastically hot man on the planet.” I couldn't agree more with that depiction.
Recommended reading for fans of... well I think Ms. Donnelly wrote it best, “... at the core was the tale of a man and woman, a chance meeting, and a fated love that overcame all adversity.”
5 Tea Cups and a Recommended Read!
March 17, 2012
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars, but I'm closer to 4 than 3... so we'll say like, 3.8 stars. Whatever.
Okay, I'll make this quick because I really have to pee.
The Characters
Both Dara and Tristen were great characters that were fleshed out enough for me to understand them without drowning in back story and personal histories. I really liked Tristen's no-nonsense attitude and I enjoyed his overprotectiveness (that's totally a word). Watching him develop his insatiable urge to protect Dara, even while knowing his behavior was odd, was more enjoyable than reading the characters who just are overprotective. I liked Dara - most of the time. I was pleased to see her quickly catch on to the dangers of her situation and I liked how her snarky attitude periodically surfaced to relieve the tension. My complaint is about her overreactions. She took extreme measures to leave Tristen and "do this on her own", which in reality just meant "do this with a bunch of other telepaths"... I didn't like how she went from "I'm willing to risk it all to be with Tristen." to "Our situation forced us to temporarily bond, but it's no biggie." WTF? Until Dara's completely unreasonable mental breakdown where she decided leaving Tristen was a good idea, I was literally giddy over the fact that there had been no TSTL moments and that I was reading a book in which the heroine didn't piss me off more than the villain. *le sigh*
The Plot
The story itself was great! The plot kept moving at a steady pace that kept me interested. The first part of the book is spent in a maximum security prison, where Dara and Tristen bond. The next part takes place on beach resort-type prison planet, where Tristen works on his shapeshifting and Dara turns into a moron. The last chunk of the book is spent on Earth. I liked how we spent enough time in the first prison to get a decent base for Dara & Tristen's relationship. They were thrown together, made the best of their situation, relied on each other, and bonded... It was nice to read about a relationship developing instead of WHAM! BAM! INSTA-LOVE!
There was romance, suspense, drama, action... it was a fun story, for sure.
The Writing/Grammar
I was reading a crappy e-book that I'm pretty sure was copied from a different e-reader program, so my copy was a bit messed up. I can tell you that I didn't see any mistakes that weren't obviously restricted to my copy.
I can't write any more, I'm about to pee my pants.
Okay, I'll make this quick because I really have to pee.
The Characters
Both Dara and Tristen were great characters that were fleshed out enough for me to understand them without drowning in back story and personal histories. I really liked Tristen's no-nonsense attitude and I enjoyed his overprotectiveness (that's totally a word). Watching him develop his insatiable urge to protect Dara, even while knowing his behavior was odd, was more enjoyable than reading the characters who just are overprotective. I liked Dara - most of the time. I was pleased to see her quickly catch on to the dangers of her situation and I liked how her snarky attitude periodically surfaced to relieve the tension. My complaint is about her overreactions. She took extreme measures to leave Tristen and "do this on her own", which in reality just meant "do this with a bunch of other telepaths"... I didn't like how she went from "I'm willing to risk it all to be with Tristen." to "Our situation forced us to temporarily bond, but it's no biggie." WTF? Until Dara's completely unreasonable mental breakdown where she decided leaving Tristen was a good idea, I was literally giddy over the fact that there had been no TSTL moments and that I was reading a book in which the heroine didn't piss me off more than the villain. *le sigh*
The Plot
The story itself was great! The plot kept moving at a steady pace that kept me interested. The first part of the book is spent in a maximum security prison, where Dara and Tristen bond. The next part takes place on beach resort-type prison planet, where Tristen works on his shapeshifting and Dara turns into a moron. The last chunk of the book is spent on Earth. I liked how we spent enough time in the first prison to get a decent base for Dara & Tristen's relationship. They were thrown together, made the best of their situation, relied on each other, and bonded... It was nice to read about a relationship developing instead of WHAM! BAM! INSTA-LOVE!
There was romance, suspense, drama, action... it was a fun story, for sure.
The Writing/Grammar
I was reading a crappy e-book that I'm pretty sure was copied from a different e-reader program, so my copy was a bit messed up. I can tell you that I didn't see any mistakes that weren't obviously restricted to my copy.
I can't write any more, I'm about to pee my pants.
October 3, 2014
This is a really great Sci-Fi Genetic altering kind of read. While it is sent in a world with different planets and space travel there is not a lot of alien stuff. It feels very modern other than the prisons on different worlds and the experiments. Not complaints, just observations.
Dara starts off a touch meek but you quickly see she has a backbone of steel. I loved the way she stood up to Tristan and did not wallow in her situation. She really works hard to survive. She really has some great spunk but it didn't make her hard either.
Tristan is gruff and not very likeable at first, very Darcy-esque. He grows on you and by the end he has gone through a huge change, for the better. I can never resist seeing an Alpha guy find his true heart and be a bit playful!
Such yummy steam!!! Of heck yeah!! Girls you will have to hold onto your panties and hope not to singe your kindle!! Plenty of naught detail but it does not overpower the story.
I was very into this story and the journey the two characters take. Wonderful world building and engaging supporting characters add to the overall delight of reading this tale. I am very eager to see what will happen with those secondary characters we encountered. I hear Amelia and Jeremy both have books in the series!! Happy Dance!
Great read that does not get too science-y or overly mushy. I loved the pace and tried to draw out the story as long as possible because I was savoring it like a sweet treat! Definitely an author to watch!
Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
Dara starts off a touch meek but you quickly see she has a backbone of steel. I loved the way she stood up to Tristan and did not wallow in her situation. She really works hard to survive. She really has some great spunk but it didn't make her hard either.
Tristan is gruff and not very likeable at first, very Darcy-esque. He grows on you and by the end he has gone through a huge change, for the better. I can never resist seeing an Alpha guy find his true heart and be a bit playful!
Such yummy steam!!! Of heck yeah!! Girls you will have to hold onto your panties and hope not to singe your kindle!! Plenty of naught detail but it does not overpower the story.
I was very into this story and the journey the two characters take. Wonderful world building and engaging supporting characters add to the overall delight of reading this tale. I am very eager to see what will happen with those secondary characters we encountered. I hear Amelia and Jeremy both have books in the series!! Happy Dance!
Great read that does not get too science-y or overly mushy. I loved the pace and tried to draw out the story as long as possible because I was savoring it like a sweet treat! Definitely an author to watch!
Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.
May 2, 2016
3.5 stars
This was a pleasant surprise. I've never read anything by Donnelly before and I'll admit I wasn't expecting much. I chose the book because it fit a specific challenge and it was only .99 on Kindle. I ended up enjoying it and will look up more by this author in the future.
Dara's untrained, and therefore unshielded, telepathic abilities could have made her incarceration on the prison planet New Alaska an even worse torment than it already is. Fortunately her new cell mate has a well-hidden protective streak, at least towards her, and Tristan protects her while helping her develop her ability. Donnelly does a great job building their relationship, using the forced close quarters and telepathic communication to create steamy love scenes. Secret medical experiments on prisoners, an entire block of psychopathic killers and corrupt/uncaring guards increase the tension. After leaving New Alaska, the book's tone changed, but it still kept me interested.
There are a few unaddressed issues that made me ask why a few times, but overall an enjoyable read. My biggest why:
This was a pleasant surprise. I've never read anything by Donnelly before and I'll admit I wasn't expecting much. I chose the book because it fit a specific challenge and it was only .99 on Kindle. I ended up enjoying it and will look up more by this author in the future.
Dara's untrained, and therefore unshielded, telepathic abilities could have made her incarceration on the prison planet New Alaska an even worse torment than it already is. Fortunately her new cell mate has a well-hidden protective streak, at least towards her, and Tristan protects her while helping her develop her ability. Donnelly does a great job building their relationship, using the forced close quarters and telepathic communication to create steamy love scenes. Secret medical experiments on prisoners, an entire block of psychopathic killers and corrupt/uncaring guards increase the tension. After leaving New Alaska, the book's tone changed, but it still kept me interested.
There are a few unaddressed issues that made me ask why a few times, but overall an enjoyable read. My biggest why:
December 27, 2015
A very interesting take on a shifter story. It's actually a combination of futuristic and paranormal. While the blurb didn't give much away, perhaps it was best as it was really interesting to see how the story unravelled.
Tristan Hunt and Dara Frost are both exiled to a maximum security prison in a planet called New Alaska. While Dara's arrest and subsequent incarceration was a mistake - they needed a scape goat - Tristan has been in New Alaska for a decade, paying penance as he deems it.
Dara is assigned as Tristan's cell mate, something Tristan feels the prison warden is deliberately goading him, but I get the feeling that he was trying to keep Dara alive and safe. That's where their story starts. And it's a very interesting journey, one I won't elaborate to avoid giving away too much.
What I like about the story was, it's a fresh perspective on a lot of things which is always appreciated. I also liked seeing Tristan and Dara's relationship grow from silent hostility to aggravated acceptance to inexplicable attachment to obviously, mad love.
So why then did I only award it four stars? The beginning was a little slow. I was tempted to quit many times in the first twelve chapters or so. But alas, I'm glad I persevered =]
Tristan Hunt and Dara Frost are both exiled to a maximum security prison in a planet called New Alaska. While Dara's arrest and subsequent incarceration was a mistake - they needed a scape goat - Tristan has been in New Alaska for a decade, paying penance as he deems it.
Dara is assigned as Tristan's cell mate, something Tristan feels the prison warden is deliberately goading him, but I get the feeling that he was trying to keep Dara alive and safe. That's where their story starts. And it's a very interesting journey, one I won't elaborate to avoid giving away too much.
What I like about the story was, it's a fresh perspective on a lot of things which is always appreciated. I also liked seeing Tristan and Dara's relationship grow from silent hostility to aggravated acceptance to inexplicable attachment to obviously, mad love.
So why then did I only award it four stars? The beginning was a little slow. I was tempted to quit many times in the first twelve chapters or so. But alas, I'm glad I persevered =]
April 24, 2014
I loved this book! so MANY close calls
But in the end it all...well read it duh.
The love scenes start pretty early in the prison (close quarters) and at first I was like hmmm but then I was like oooooweeeeeeee
The action is packed! PIZZY packed! Again PRISON!
The characters were great! They were funny but there was tension too. It really kept me turning zee page. I even met some that are in pending books that were so intriguing!
At the end I was kind of sad but then... I was like this is a series remember???
SO if you like romance that packs a punch? HERE IT IS!
But in the end it all...well read it duh.
The love scenes start pretty early in the prison (close quarters) and at first I was like hmmm but then I was like oooooweeeeeeee
The action is packed! PIZZY packed! Again PRISON!
The characters were great! They were funny but there was tension too. It really kept me turning zee page. I even met some that are in pending books that were so intriguing!
At the end I was kind of sad but then... I was like this is a series remember???
SO if you like romance that packs a punch? HERE IT IS!
March 26, 2015
I rarely get sucked in by books any more, but this one did. I had a hard time putting down my reader to bother with such mundane things as eating and sleeping.
From the beginning, Ms. Donnelly crafts a dystopian future and prison planet with just enough detail to support the characters and a minimum reliance on technology. She tells the story of people, three major, and several minor characters. The best science fiction and fantasy is always about the people and their interactions rather than the gimmicks and doohickeys that may be invented sometime in the future.
One of the most fascinating parts of the book deals with the intimacy of the two main characters, and what it's like with telepaths make love and are in each other's minds at the same time. The exploration of this situation is done with great imagination and a clarity that keeps the reader in the minds of the two of them through changing points of view.
Read this book!
From the beginning, Ms. Donnelly crafts a dystopian future and prison planet with just enough detail to support the characters and a minimum reliance on technology. She tells the story of people, three major, and several minor characters. The best science fiction and fantasy is always about the people and their interactions rather than the gimmicks and doohickeys that may be invented sometime in the future.
One of the most fascinating parts of the book deals with the intimacy of the two main characters, and what it's like with telepaths make love and are in each other's minds at the same time. The exploration of this situation is done with great imagination and a clarity that keeps the reader in the minds of the two of them through changing points of view.
Read this book!
July 12, 2014
This book begins straight into hell. A distant planet used as a maximum security prison where innocent but Dara ends up after pointing a murder she didn't commit but saw thanks her telepathic gift or curse. There she meets the wild and dangerous Tristan who, after being the subject of countless scientific experiment, end up transforming into a very power and dangerous tiger!!
The 2 of them shared telepathically and physically which create a very strong and deep relationship which only grew when Dara was in danger.
I loved how Tristan was ready to do absolutely anything to keep her safe and close. As for Dara, she is sweet and kind but a bit naive with a strong sense of justice and a weak sense of prudence. Good thing she ended up with him!!!
The 2 of them shared telepathically and physically which create a very strong and deep relationship which only grew when Dara was in danger.
I loved how Tristan was ready to do absolutely anything to keep her safe and close. As for Dara, she is sweet and kind but a bit naive with a strong sense of justice and a weak sense of prudence. Good thing she ended up with him!!!
January 6, 2015
Set within the future, a girl that is normally just a close in becomes the prime and only suspect in a murder she only dreamed. She is convicted and sent to the worst of prisons to live out her life sentence. The prison being the worst of the worst and her with her ability to hear others thoughts is almost more than she can handle until another person with abilities of his own takes her under his wing. The prison is also a lab that uses the prisoners for their experiments with little to no remorse for those that are lost to it.What will happen to this basically normal girl? will she find a way to save herself before she loses her mind or will she be lost to her own thoughts forever? very good read
July 14, 2015
I just got back from this mind trip!
I caught myself numerous times breathing faster during the exciting battles going on in the minds of all the characters! The author deftly sent me there and I swear I could smell, hear, feel, and taste what they were at the time. Suspense blossomed at every turn, emotions erupted, and questions about who could be trusted was constant. Aside from one other book (which was based on a true story) this is my favorite book I've read in my lifetime. Thanks for the ride, Alianne! No cliffhanger, for mature readers only due to graphic sexual content.
I caught myself numerous times breathing faster during the exciting battles going on in the minds of all the characters! The author deftly sent me there and I swear I could smell, hear, feel, and taste what they were at the time. Suspense blossomed at every turn, emotions erupted, and questions about who could be trusted was constant. Aside from one other book (which was based on a true story) this is my favorite book I've read in my lifetime. Thanks for the ride, Alianne! No cliffhanger, for mature readers only due to graphic sexual content.
July 12, 2015
I have read all of Alianne Donnelly later works, except for Wolfen (I’m a wimp when it comes to horror), and decided to read her earlier books. Blood Moons is a unique and exciting book that I couldn’t put down! I’m so happy there is more to this series, as I wait impatiently for her to write another book.
April 29, 2013
Great book loved the story. I loved the way the author put a different type of spin on the making of a shifter. This is a great love story with drama and passion between the characters. Would highly recommend this book to anyone that loves the paranormal or even the futuristic fiction.
April 26, 2013
This book was freaking fantastic!!!!! the first word to come to mind is "meaty". it turned out to be a romantic, action paced, heart wrenching, pyscholigical thriller!! the writing has the perfect balance of world building and imagination. I LOVED Tristan and Dara!! Definite must read!!!!!
January 8, 2015
Great read
I found that I couldn't put my kindle down. I wAs captivated in the story of different worlds. A love so strong that it seemed endless. Mind reading and the government experimenting on prisoners. Believable and mind boggling.
I found that I couldn't put my kindle down. I wAs captivated in the story of different worlds. A love so strong that it seemed endless. Mind reading and the government experimenting on prisoners. Believable and mind boggling.
August 19, 2016
It started slow for me. I wasn't really impressed with the book until after the halfway point when Dara leaves to track the killer. but as my respect for Dara increased, it decreased a little for Tristan. the overwhelming possessiveness was a turn off.
January 3, 2011
This was a unique story, very enjoyable. A little sci-fi/PNR. Looking forward to her future books.
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