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A Thread of Deepest Black
The seduction of his enemy is the ultimate hunt…
When his mortal enemy, the handsome and deadly Colton Dècarie, shows up on his doorstep asking an unspeakable favor, Killian Frost is cautious—and curious. What could drive a shape-shifter to beg a werewolf for an honorable death in the line of duty—defending humans from soul-stealing Lycans? Moreover, why ask Killian, who has kept his own feet off that dark path?
Colton’s conflicted heart can take no more of the violence that consumes more of his humanity with every hunt. Even now, Killian’s werewolf scent makes him burn with the instinctive urge to shift and destroy. Death would be a mercy, but the price is impossibly one night of submission in Killian’s bed.
Yet as Killian extracts payment in flesh and pleasure, Colton finds himself giving all that’s demanded of him and more, feeling something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Alive. And Killian discovers the hidden cost of sleeping with the enemy. To keep the balance between light and dark, Bella Luna binds his Lycan blood with a quest to unravel a conspiracy threatening all his kind. If he’s brave enough, he’ll discover a love that means more than the power of a dead man’s soul.
Contains plotting and scheming, a wicked, whip-wielding werewolf whose favorite word is “Mine” and a sexy shifter bound with red ribbon whose favorite reply is “I hate you.”
When his mortal enemy, the handsome and deadly Colton Dècarie, shows up on his doorstep asking an unspeakable favor, Killian Frost is cautious—and curious. What could drive a shape-shifter to beg a werewolf for an honorable death in the line of duty—defending humans from soul-stealing Lycans? Moreover, why ask Killian, who has kept his own feet off that dark path?
Colton’s conflicted heart can take no more of the violence that consumes more of his humanity with every hunt. Even now, Killian’s werewolf scent makes him burn with the instinctive urge to shift and destroy. Death would be a mercy, but the price is impossibly one night of submission in Killian’s bed.
Yet as Killian extracts payment in flesh and pleasure, Colton finds himself giving all that’s demanded of him and more, feeling something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Alive. And Killian discovers the hidden cost of sleeping with the enemy. To keep the balance between light and dark, Bella Luna binds his Lycan blood with a quest to unravel a conspiracy threatening all his kind. If he’s brave enough, he’ll discover a love that means more than the power of a dead man’s soul.
Contains plotting and scheming, a wicked, whip-wielding werewolf whose favorite word is “Mine” and a sexy shifter bound with red ribbon whose favorite reply is “I hate you.”
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2010
69 people are currently reading
1398 people want to read
About the author
Finn Marlowe
8 books448 followersFinn Marlowe is a paralegal by day and erotic (M/M) romance novelist by night. She believes daydreaming is a vastly underrated pastime and probably spends way too much time at it. Her kids no longer ask what’s wrong when they spy her staring off into space—they just assume she’s writing a scene from her next novel and they’re probably right. Paranormal romance is her favorite genre to write, and the story’s usually on the dark side because she still believes in things that go bump in the night.
Finn calls British Columbia home and when she’s not enjoying the beautiful outdoors, she’s inside reading or resenting the fact her kids are better video game players than she is. If there were more hours in the day, she’d like to become a better artist, a greener gardener and learn to speak Spanish. Since she believes all dreams are possible if you don’t give up on them, she expects to regain her video game hi-scores, naturally vanquish all garden pests and finally paint what lives inside her imagination. As for speaking Spanish, well, she’ll settle for learning to pronounce all the good curse words.
Finn calls British Columbia home and when she’s not enjoying the beautiful outdoors, she’s inside reading or resenting the fact her kids are better video game players than she is. If there were more hours in the day, she’d like to become a better artist, a greener gardener and learn to speak Spanish. Since she believes all dreams are possible if you don’t give up on them, she expects to regain her video game hi-scores, naturally vanquish all garden pests and finally paint what lives inside her imagination. As for speaking Spanish, well, she’ll settle for learning to pronounce all the good curse words.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
June 16, 2013
This book...is a fucking puppet show in book form.
It's like your grandmother is reading you from The Big Bad Wolf again, only a plot-less variant with endless, repetitive, stretched-out sex scenes.
Contrary to popular believe, I really don't enjoy being a hater. And I'm actually scared to post this review. So I'm going to keep this short and simple for a change and try to not pour my frustration in a lengthy review that will probably only be read by friends who rated it 4 stars, except for Day thief maybe (bless you!:p). That way, maybe this review will fly under everyone's radar and I will still have fulfilled my holy duty of being a honest reviewer....am I rambling?
Hell, this is not helping. So I will let the book do the talking.
Christ, but he was a wicked werewolf! "How 'bout a kiss?" he asked conversationally.
"No!" Colton shouted. "You evil werewolf! You don't deserve kisses."
"Well, now..that sounds like defiance. You damned well will kiss me and you'll do a good job of it, otherwise you'll suffer much longer.
In a way, this scene is an anomaly. You see, the wicked werewolf, who refers to himself as a very wicked werewolf, seldom just asks for a kiss. Instead, he says "Give me your lips, o pretty one" on every other wicked page.
"Anything else?"
Ah...but there is! "Yes. I want everything! Give me everything, my beloved, I'll take everything."
"If I give you everything, can I have a kiss, my wicked werewolf?
Well now. That required some contemplation. "Give me every night in my bed, pretty one, and I'll give you kisses forever."
"Hmm...sounds like I'm getting the better side of this deal, Mr. Frost!"
I waited for weeks to cool down and write this semi-review. Yet the lameness, the cheesiness, the goddamn corniness HITS ME AGAIN LIKE A FREAKING BRICK WALL. And I pretty much adored Not His Kiss To Take by the same author. That one had a rather annoying abundance of endearments (angel) as well, but it was nowhere near as bad as in A Thread of Deepest Black. So it's me, but maybe it isn't me, you know?
"You are the evilest werewolf I have ever met.
"Thank you", he said, and meant it too. It was a compliment. But I am not evil. I'm merely wicked."
Also, there are penises in this book. Sore penises, erect penises, throbbing penises, swollen penises, hard penises, big penises and penises complaining of need.
Ages 3 and up. Indeed.
It's like your grandmother is reading you from The Big Bad Wolf again, only a plot-less variant with endless, repetitive, stretched-out sex scenes.
Contrary to popular believe, I really don't enjoy being a hater. And I'm actually scared to post this review. So I'm going to keep this short and simple for a change and try to not pour my frustration in a lengthy review that will probably only be read by friends who rated it 4 stars, except for Day thief maybe (bless you!:p). That way, maybe this review will fly under everyone's radar and I will still have fulfilled my holy duty of being a honest reviewer....am I rambling?
Hell, this is not helping. So I will let the book do the talking.
Christ, but he was a wicked werewolf! "How 'bout a kiss?" he asked conversationally.
"No!" Colton shouted. "You evil werewolf! You don't deserve kisses."
"Well, now..that sounds like defiance. You damned well will kiss me and you'll do a good job of it, otherwise you'll suffer much longer.
In a way, this scene is an anomaly. You see, the wicked werewolf, who refers to himself as a very wicked werewolf, seldom just asks for a kiss. Instead, he says "Give me your lips, o pretty one" on every other wicked page.
"Anything else?"
Ah...but there is! "Yes. I want everything! Give me everything, my beloved, I'll take everything."
"If I give you everything, can I have a kiss, my wicked werewolf?
Well now. That required some contemplation. "Give me every night in my bed, pretty one, and I'll give you kisses forever."
"Hmm...sounds like I'm getting the better side of this deal, Mr. Frost!"
I waited for weeks to cool down and write this semi-review. Yet the lameness, the cheesiness, the goddamn corniness HITS ME AGAIN LIKE A FREAKING BRICK WALL. And I pretty much adored Not His Kiss To Take by the same author. That one had a rather annoying abundance of endearments (angel) as well, but it was nowhere near as bad as in A Thread of Deepest Black. So it's me, but maybe it isn't me, you know?
"You are the evilest werewolf I have ever met.
"Thank you", he said, and meant it too. It was a compliment. But I am not evil. I'm merely wicked."
Also, there are penises in this book. Sore penises, erect penises, throbbing penises, swollen penises, hard penises, big penises and penises complaining of need.
Ages 3 and up. Indeed.
October 20, 2014
Wicked, wicked book with evil werewolves and (not so) stupid shifters. Total wicked bliss, dark chocolate with honey on my black twisted desires, but - dang! - it just finally came to a very perverted and satisfying end. Not happy. Not happy at all ~:/ Gimme more, dammit!
This is NOT a spoiler:
The only fault I see with this book is a confusing BDSM scene in the very beginning. Killian gave Colton everything the shifter needed, took him by complete and extremely satisfying (if wicked and evil) surprise. Yet there was left a tinge of betrayal and dishonesty in the air. Later on we find out that it is not so. Colton's first encounter with Killian in his bedroom was nothing of the sort. I wish FM somehow cleared that confusion from the start. But - oh well, it is what it is.
6 starts out of 6 :D
And now - eye candy for those who missed my updates! =)
Sweet innocent (ha-ha!) and pretty Colton ♥
Wicked wicked werewolf Killian ♥
Wicked and evil werewolf Killian ♥
This is NOT a spoiler:
The only fault I see with this book is a confusing BDSM scene in the very beginning. Killian gave Colton everything the shifter needed, took him by complete and extremely satisfying (if wicked and evil) surprise. Yet there was left a tinge of betrayal and dishonesty in the air. Later on we find out that it is not so. Colton's first encounter with Killian in his bedroom was nothing of the sort. I wish FM somehow cleared that confusion from the start. But - oh well, it is what it is.
6 starts out of 6 :D
And now - eye candy for those who missed my updates! =)
Sweet innocent (ha-ha!) and pretty Colton ♥
Wicked wicked werewolf Killian ♥
Wicked and evil werewolf Killian ♥
July 6, 2011
4.5 stars
I have to admit, what first attracted me to this novel was the cover. Right away, I was drawn to it and every time I would go cruising Samhain's website, I'd always go back to this book. It's just gorgeous *sigh*
To me, this book was outstanding. I got caught up in the feelings of both Colton and Killian. Colton with his brokenness, anger and shame and Killian with his blunt possessiveness, his desire to claim, to care and to use. I was lost to these characters and the way they couldn't help but fall for each other. They buried themselves so deep in my heart, I felt every emotion they felt.
Ms. Marlowe's writing was extremely captivating. It drew me in and even though there was a bit too many sex scenes for my tastes, the writing made me want to read them anyway to see what would happen next in Colton or Killian's minds. To see what new development would come into light that these two characters couldn't help but share even unintentionally with each other. It was enthralling and I didn't want to stop reading. And how could you not love the red ribbon and kisses?! My favorite parts were when either Killian or Colton would say, "No kisses for you!" It was so cute!
Aside from the sex, I'm curious about some things. Curious about the negotiations Killian is supposed to have with the new council? I'd like to see what happens after the three month vacation is over and how Killian's family reacts to him loving a shifter. I would have liked to see more characters in the story like Killian's family (although knowing Lucien is getting his own story makes me giddy ^_^) I'm curious about the Prince. He was quite interesting and I want to know everything about him. He's so young but so talented! I hope he someday gets his own story with a sexy werewolf like Killian. Lol
All in all, this was a great story. I didn't want to put this down once I started it. I can't wait to see what Ms. Marlowe writes next because I love her writing. Definitely recommended.
Fair Warning: This book does contain BDSM elements that involves bondage and whipping. There's also aggressive manhandling that some might call violence but I, however, do not.
I have to admit, what first attracted me to this novel was the cover. Right away, I was drawn to it and every time I would go cruising Samhain's website, I'd always go back to this book. It's just gorgeous *sigh*
To me, this book was outstanding. I got caught up in the feelings of both Colton and Killian. Colton with his brokenness, anger and shame and Killian with his blunt possessiveness, his desire to claim, to care and to use. I was lost to these characters and the way they couldn't help but fall for each other. They buried themselves so deep in my heart, I felt every emotion they felt.
Ms. Marlowe's writing was extremely captivating. It drew me in and even though there was a bit too many sex scenes for my tastes, the writing made me want to read them anyway to see what would happen next in Colton or Killian's minds. To see what new development would come into light that these two characters couldn't help but share even unintentionally with each other. It was enthralling and I didn't want to stop reading. And how could you not love the red ribbon and kisses?! My favorite parts were when either Killian or Colton would say, "No kisses for you!" It was so cute!
Aside from the sex, I'm curious about some things. Curious about the negotiations Killian is supposed to have with the new council? I'd like to see what happens after the three month vacation is over and how Killian's family reacts to him loving a shifter. I would have liked to see more characters in the story like Killian's family (although knowing Lucien is getting his own story makes me giddy ^_^) I'm curious about the Prince. He was quite interesting and I want to know everything about him. He's so young but so talented! I hope he someday gets his own story with a sexy werewolf like Killian. Lol
All in all, this was a great story. I didn't want to put this down once I started it. I can't wait to see what Ms. Marlowe writes next because I love her writing. Definitely recommended.
Fair Warning: This book does contain BDSM elements that involves bondage and whipping. There's also aggressive manhandling that some might call violence but I, however, do not.
December 22, 2012
3.5
So ok, this has to be some of the hottest sex I've read in m/m so kudos for that. There is some BDSM, but I'd consider it pretty light. The begging was particularly hot. I love enemies to lovers and this had that in spades. The characters were likable, and the plot was fairly decent. What didn't work for me was the numerous amounts of pet names (no pun intended), the abundance of the word "MINE", and the amount of sex. Seriously, this book is probably 50% sex. Also, the POV switches with both characters, and while it wasn't as jarring as switching ever paragraph because it switched every few chapters, I still found it a bit disjointed for some reason. Overall, an enjoyable read.
So ok, this has to be some of the hottest sex I've read in m/m so kudos for that. There is some BDSM, but I'd consider it pretty light. The begging was particularly hot. I love enemies to lovers and this had that in spades. The characters were likable, and the plot was fairly decent. What didn't work for me was the numerous amounts of pet names (no pun intended), the abundance of the word "MINE", and the amount of sex. Seriously, this book is probably 50% sex. Also, the POV switches with both characters, and while it wasn't as jarring as switching ever paragraph because it switched every few chapters, I still found it a bit disjointed for some reason. Overall, an enjoyable read.
July 15, 2011
A Solid 4 Star Read
First off, I must say, that I love the title of this book. A Thread of Deepest Black is absolutely perfect for it.
Secondly, BDSM is not something that I would normally choose to read, but it was completely necessary for the plot of this story. I, myself, cannot fully understand the need for D/s and flogging and pain in the usual contemporary novels, but like I just said, it worked for me in this paranormal story. So I didn't have any problems with that. Also, there is a lot of sex and I think the first sex scene took me around an hour to read; it was so long. But I truly felt that each sex scene furthered the story along since it was such an important aspect of the plot. My biggest problem with those scenes was the silly cliche dialogue.
Thirdly, my biggest problem with this book: I was confused...a lot! I think the differences between the shifters and werewolves could have been better explained. There are things I'm still confused about and I'm not sure if they were ever explain or if I just still could not understand them. Also, many times, I couldn't tell if it was Killian or Colton who was speaking and found myself rereading because I knew the dialogue was key to the scene. Approximately two thirds of the story is told in 3rd person from Killian's POV and the other third told from Colton's. I would have liked to have more from Colton's POV.
Finally, I really did like this book and would recommend it. I liked the paranormal parts even though I'm still confused and the sex was pretty hot.
First off, I must say, that I love the title of this book. A Thread of Deepest Black is absolutely perfect for it.
"When the power of the shift rips the human body apart and transforms it into its new shape, there lives a second, less than a second, a mere shimmer of time when the mind is without a home, no body to call its own. Existence is painless in there, nothing but formlessness beyond understanding. A secret place, it contains nothing but the essence of self, a lost self. In the fire of pain, Colton found a whisper of that place, its ghost, its echo, and from that echo he withdrew a thread of deepest black."
Secondly, BDSM is not something that I would normally choose to read, but it was completely necessary for the plot of this story. I, myself, cannot fully understand the need for D/s and flogging and pain in the usual contemporary novels, but like I just said, it worked for me in this paranormal story. So I didn't have any problems with that. Also, there is a lot of sex and I think the first sex scene took me around an hour to read; it was so long. But I truly felt that each sex scene furthered the story along since it was such an important aspect of the plot. My biggest problem with those scenes was the silly cliche dialogue.
Thirdly, my biggest problem with this book: I was confused...a lot! I think the differences between the shifters and werewolves could have been better explained. There are things I'm still confused about and I'm not sure if they were ever explain or if I just still could not understand them. Also, many times, I couldn't tell if it was Killian or Colton who was speaking and found myself rereading because I knew the dialogue was key to the scene. Approximately two thirds of the story is told in 3rd person from Killian's POV and the other third told from Colton's. I would have liked to have more from Colton's POV.
Finally, I really did like this book and would recommend it. I liked the paranormal parts even though I'm still confused and the sex was pretty hot.
June 29, 2012
I never knew this book existed. However a quote from this book enticed me to read it. I'm glad I read that quote. If not, I think I would not have been enthusiastic enough to not read but to finish this story.
It is dark, paranormal with a world were shifters and werewolves are enemies. Humans are prey(?) The author is not as clearly defined in her writing as I usually prefer but once you overlook the heavy metaphors and overused exclamation points you have an erotic, m/m love story between two men who should be enemies but end up becoming soul mates.
For a debut novel this story is good. I liked it. The author writes introduces a shifter (Colton) begging for death at his enemy's door, a werewolf (Killian). the author thows the reader into a dark world, poetic like world were Colton keeps his secret as to why he wants to die and Killian somehow drawn to Colton's light.
The author created a dark world where things are vaguely explained, a lot of times through colors and thorns. On a good note, for fans of BDSM erotica, this is a story for you. And power bottoming, who can't appreciate a good power bottom? Also for readers that enjoy obscure, poetic prose-like stories as well.
I think I can do without reading exclamation points or metaphors or colors being used as variances of pain for a day or two, though.
But thank goodness for that quote.
It is dark, paranormal with a world were shifters and werewolves are enemies. Humans are prey(?) The author is not as clearly defined in her writing as I usually prefer but once you overlook the heavy metaphors and overused exclamation points you have an erotic, m/m love story between two men who should be enemies but end up becoming soul mates.
For a debut novel this story is good. I liked it. The author writes introduces a shifter (Colton) begging for death at his enemy's door, a werewolf (Killian). the author thows the reader into a dark world, poetic like world were Colton keeps his secret as to why he wants to die and Killian somehow drawn to Colton's light.
The author created a dark world where things are vaguely explained, a lot of times through colors and thorns. On a good note, for fans of BDSM erotica, this is a story for you. And power bottoming, who can't appreciate a good power bottom? Also for readers that enjoy obscure, poetic prose-like stories as well.
I think I can do without reading exclamation points or metaphors or colors being used as variances of pain for a day or two, though.
But thank goodness for that quote.
November 5, 2013
I am conflicted in rating this book. I really enjoyed it after I dismissed the motivating factor for their relationship--this premise pissed me off so bad I stopped reading the book for about 6 weeks. Killian's character evolves and becomes so rich that I relegated it to the fringes on my mind, but even there his preliminary actions with Colton infuriate me.
If I don't include a reason then this will just sound like a rant so do NOT read the spoiler prior to the book.
The rest is sublime. The interplay and exchange is delicious with pain and pleasure woven together and one of the best displays of the shared equality in a D/s relationship--neither is truly more powerful than the other. It is a symbiotic one, not a parasitic one.
Favorite passage, related to above:
“I shouldn’t have given you that ribbon,” he whispered. Confession was not good for his soul—he was a werewolf, a dark hunter—but he said it anyway. “I didn’t know when I unwound it from that damned spool and ran it through my fingers that the silk flowed both ways, and that the other end would always come back to me.
If I don't include a reason then this will just sound like a rant so do NOT read the spoiler prior to the book.
The rest is sublime. The interplay and exchange is delicious with pain and pleasure woven together and one of the best displays of the shared equality in a D/s relationship--neither is truly more powerful than the other. It is a symbiotic one, not a parasitic one.
Favorite passage, related to above:
“I shouldn’t have given you that ribbon,” he whispered. Confession was not good for his soul—he was a werewolf, a dark hunter—but he said it anyway. “I didn’t know when I unwound it from that damned spool and ran it through my fingers that the silk flowed both ways, and that the other end would always come back to me.
August 30, 2012
4.5 Stars!
Peace Werewolf! Peace Shifter!
Most books that I have read Werewolf and Shifter are one in the same. This book however, has a totally fascinating different set of rules. Werewolves are well, Werewolves, but they are dark. Shifters, however, related to the Werewolves in that their basic shape is a wolf, but they can take DNA and learn to shift into any other creature and are light. These set of rules were quite amazing at times, I just wish it were a little easier to catch on right at the beginning. I was quite confused for the first part of the book, but it did come together and I absolutely love this couple. Colton is the stronger of the two, but he is the submissive one. Killian, it turns out, is quite strong himself too. He is able to dominate the stronger shifter and help him when he is just ready to give up. I would love to see another book with this same couple in it and see how things go with a different ruling body present at the end. This would is amazing and would make an excellent series.
Peace Werewolf! Peace Shifter!
Most books that I have read Werewolf and Shifter are one in the same. This book however, has a totally fascinating different set of rules. Werewolves are well, Werewolves, but they are dark. Shifters, however, related to the Werewolves in that their basic shape is a wolf, but they can take DNA and learn to shift into any other creature and are light. These set of rules were quite amazing at times, I just wish it were a little easier to catch on right at the beginning. I was quite confused for the first part of the book, but it did come together and I absolutely love this couple. Colton is the stronger of the two, but he is the submissive one. Killian, it turns out, is quite strong himself too. He is able to dominate the stronger shifter and help him when he is just ready to give up. I would love to see another book with this same couple in it and see how things go with a different ruling body present at the end. This would is amazing and would make an excellent series.
September 23, 2012
At first when I was reading the book I was really iffy about it. The first sex scene started early and lasted to about 30% and I wasn't really quite sure what was going to happen and where this book would take me and I wasn't really too fond of the characters as well.
But then near about 50% I really warmed up to the book. The action started, the book and characters really started grabbing me.
I adore Killian. To death. Seriously.
They were just too amazing and sweet with each other and I found myself smiling rather goofily. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as well-- especially the brief moment with the Prince of Thorns. I would love! for there to be a book about him.
Overall this really is quite an enthralling -albeit slightly dark- read, featuring a bit of BDSM (which is actually a vital part of the story) and some pretty squeal worthy characters.
The beginning may seem a bit hmm to you, but honestly it's worth getting past that.
But then near about 50% I really warmed up to the book. The action started, the book and characters really started grabbing me.
I adore Killian. To death. Seriously.
They were just too amazing and sweet with each other and I found myself smiling rather goofily. I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters as well-- especially the brief moment with the Prince of Thorns. I would love! for there to be a book about him.
Overall this really is quite an enthralling -albeit slightly dark- read, featuring a bit of BDSM (which is actually a vital part of the story) and some pretty squeal worthy characters.
The beginning may seem a bit hmm to you, but honestly it's worth getting past that.
March 20, 2015
Very rarely do I give a book a one star review. I think in the 1,000+ books I have recorded here on GR there maybe be 1 or 2 more. So don't think I hand 1 stars thoughtlessly.
But this book truly deserves it. The dialogue was cheesy and corny. The endearments were annoying: pretty one, blondie, and so it goes.
The plot? I am not sure there really was one to speak of. This is how the book goes: guys meet have sex for the next 25%of the book. Then go off to do something on their own (we are told this btw), get back together after a couple of pages, have sex for the next 25% of the book.
So what I am trying to say is that this book is nothing but protracted sex scenes with ridiculously cheesy dialogue. If this is your thing then this book is for you.
But this book truly deserves it. The dialogue was cheesy and corny. The endearments were annoying: pretty one, blondie, and so it goes.
The plot? I am not sure there really was one to speak of. This is how the book goes: guys meet have sex for the next 25%of the book. Then go off to do something on their own (we are told this btw), get back together after a couple of pages, have sex for the next 25% of the book.
So what I am trying to say is that this book is nothing but protracted sex scenes with ridiculously cheesy dialogue. If this is your thing then this book is for you.
February 12, 2011
1,5 stars.
Constantly back and forth "shifting",unappealing characters in an almost plotless shifter/werewolf story.
Must be a new record in long drawn-out sex scenes!
Constantly back and forth "shifting",unappealing characters in an almost plotless shifter/werewolf story.
Must be a new record in long drawn-out sex scenes!
April 29, 2013
3.5 stars
This is my second attempt at reading this book and I’m glad I persevered. At its core this is a sweetly erotic love story between two men from very different ‘cultures’ who become obsessed with each other and this is what keeps me reading.
My issues are that I found the start of the story choppy and difficult to follow and therefore, sink into; the world difficult to suss out; and the dynamic between Killian and Colton confusing. They are both big, bad shifters yet they are sworn, mortal enemies. There are different kinds of shifters in this world but it’s not clear initially why they are enemies. Colton gets the story rolling when he, an omni-shifter, dares to ask Killian, big bad were-shifter, to kill him (reason not given for a long, long time). Killian agrees on one condition and Colton leaves in a huff.
The story unfolds as a drawn out seduction that overwhelms the underlying mystery as to why Colton wants to end his life. Killian is curious too but he initially seems more absorbed by his lust for the gorgeous Colton and the chance to dominate this sworn enemy. And that is his condition -- before any killing, Colton must give himself to Killian. Page after page of it and not much else happening. Don’t get me wrong, the seduction is erotic and the sex/BDSM scenes are panty wilting; and Killian’s plan seems to be to seduce the truth out of Colton. But it also takes me a while to cozy up to Killian (yes, he is a sexy and self-assured Dom but he treads a dangerous line bordering on self-absorbed, self-important, arrogant egotist) and there’s that nagging issue of Colton’s unhappiness -- an interesting mystery that the author withholds for too long.
It isn’t until the last chapters when the mystery finally unfolds with a ramp-up to the climactic action scene, that the story clicks into place. So, in the end, while I enjoyed the romance, I wished for a smoother delivery and that there’d been more balance between the romance and mystery building and more information given about this world.
November 16, 2012
I started reading this months ago, put it down, picked it up, several times. I hated it, could not force myself beyond the sixth chapter.
Why?
I could feel how powerful this story could be. How powerfully these characters affected me. And simply put, I did not trust the author.
I did not want to be disappointed by something with such sweet promise.
The shifter and werewolf lore, the world building, is not at all obvious at first. Not coming from these separate and unreliable sources. Trust Killian's voice? he seems quite mad, would you trust a madman? Cannot trust Colton's voice because his comes from a very broken soul overwhelmed by pain, sorrow, despair. Brought together under the most unlikely of circumstances, they find in each other something to hold onto. Someone. A sort of balance. So then, between the two of them, the rest of the story unfolds.
Vivid fight scenes, shape-shifting, poetry in motion! The sexual encounters between Killian and Colton are palpable, becoming more intensely erotic each time. Divine pleasure/pain!
There's an elegance in the writing that compliments as well as contradicts the characters thoughts, words and actions. So beautifully done I could hardly stand it.
I will never underestimate Finn Marlowe again. Hats off Lady, this is an awesome book!
Why?
I could feel how powerful this story could be. How powerfully these characters affected me. And simply put, I did not trust the author.
I did not want to be disappointed by something with such sweet promise.
The shifter and werewolf lore, the world building, is not at all obvious at first. Not coming from these separate and unreliable sources. Trust Killian's voice? he seems quite mad, would you trust a madman? Cannot trust Colton's voice because his comes from a very broken soul overwhelmed by pain, sorrow, despair. Brought together under the most unlikely of circumstances, they find in each other something to hold onto. Someone. A sort of balance. So then, between the two of them, the rest of the story unfolds.
Vivid fight scenes, shape-shifting, poetry in motion! The sexual encounters between Killian and Colton are palpable, becoming more intensely erotic each time. Divine pleasure/pain!
There's an elegance in the writing that compliments as well as contradicts the characters thoughts, words and actions. So beautifully done I could hardly stand it.
I will never underestimate Finn Marlowe again. Hats off Lady, this is an awesome book!
August 15, 2012
This is probably one of the most interesting takes on shifters and were-wolves. Really, at the beginning I was not very happy with the book, because I wasn't able to make up my mind about Killian: he seemed so over-the-top, always in your face, almost heartless and cruel. Page after page, I can't say he conquered me, but I found him more and more fascinating and by the end of the book I thought his dominance tinted with a bit of sweetness was winning. Colton seemed a bit too childish sometimes, younger than his age, and I wished I had seen more defiance in him, but this is a perfectly mixed main couple.
I was engrossed by the vivid imagery of the red and black threads, that's why I thought the author could have skipped a bit of sex to give more space to the rich world building. I was also sometimes confused by the many pieces of information that were inserted here and there and that sometimes made me change my whole perspective about previous events. It was positive in a way, because there wasn't a boring info-dumping, but on the other hand I had the impression the twists were a little too convenient. In a word, it felt not organized.
It's my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. Recommended if you like your urban fantasy with a touch of bdsm.
I was engrossed by the vivid imagery of the red and black threads, that's why I thought the author could have skipped a bit of sex to give more space to the rich world building. I was also sometimes confused by the many pieces of information that were inserted here and there and that sometimes made me change my whole perspective about previous events. It was positive in a way, because there wasn't a boring info-dumping, but on the other hand I had the impression the twists were a little too convenient. In a word, it felt not organized.
It's my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. Recommended if you like your urban fantasy with a touch of bdsm.
June 25, 2013
Fucking shifters, man. Can't get any sense out of them.
February 25, 2012
Werewolves, whips, and pretty men? Sign me up. I was so excited when I received this book through Goodreads First Reads.
This is a passionate story of two men- one a shifter, and one a werewolf- and the forbidden love they face. Wanting nothing more than an honorable death, Colton comes to a werewolf named Killian to ask for death. Considering it, Killian makes a negotiation- he'll consider it only if Colton spends one night in his bed. After that night, their fates cross paths, and they must work together in a way they never expected. With each flick of the whip, the threads of Colton's identity begin to unravel, showing Killian that there's more than meets the eye, and that all of those secrets, all of Colton, are simply his.
I very much enjoyed this story. The sex scenes were written in a steamy, sexy way without making it come across as crude or rushed. There was a lovely blend of emotions and details from both male characters. It was easy and hot to read. Come for the sex (or from it, I promise not to judge), but stay for the plot. Even if the sex scenes were to be taken out of the novel, though I don't know why you'd want to do that, there is still a decent plot involving corruption and quite a few fights.
There were admittedly a few parts that seemed a bit redundant at times, but as the book pressed on, I stopped noticing or caring (I'm not sure which).
I recommend it for people who enjoy any combination of wolves, erotica, BDSM, and male-male action, and I will definitely be reading it again.
This is a passionate story of two men- one a shifter, and one a werewolf- and the forbidden love they face. Wanting nothing more than an honorable death, Colton comes to a werewolf named Killian to ask for death. Considering it, Killian makes a negotiation- he'll consider it only if Colton spends one night in his bed. After that night, their fates cross paths, and they must work together in a way they never expected. With each flick of the whip, the threads of Colton's identity begin to unravel, showing Killian that there's more than meets the eye, and that all of those secrets, all of Colton, are simply his.
I very much enjoyed this story. The sex scenes were written in a steamy, sexy way without making it come across as crude or rushed. There was a lovely blend of emotions and details from both male characters. It was easy and hot to read. Come for the sex (or from it, I promise not to judge), but stay for the plot. Even if the sex scenes were to be taken out of the novel, though I don't know why you'd want to do that, there is still a decent plot involving corruption and quite a few fights.
There were admittedly a few parts that seemed a bit redundant at times, but as the book pressed on, I stopped noticing or caring (I'm not sure which).
I recommend it for people who enjoy any combination of wolves, erotica, BDSM, and male-male action, and I will definitely be reading it again.
October 26, 2011
Killian Frost is hot. I can understand why Colton submits to him. The alpha vibes off of Killian are heady for me. His ability to dole out "punishment" is a delight. His natural command and his holding a person accountable for his actions kind of make me squee in delight. This story was light on the SM and edgeplays for BDSM. It was more of a D/s and BD. And boy could Killian dole out his D/s. The few scenes of BD were smoldering hot for me.
Colton is a fatalistic kid of boy, isn't he? The boy scout who takes the world on his shoulder. I empathize with him. I like how he struggles to submit to Killian. I enjoyed the conflict and the struggles. Basically, this is a story about two strong men who have different ways of coming to the "right" way to accomplish a goal. Colton is more black and white. Killian thinks outside of the box. I like Killian's way better. Plus, he wields a mean flogger!
I recommend this book to those who enjoy shifters and m/m romance. The focus is on those two rather than the BDSM. The BDSM is an added bonus.
Colton is a fatalistic kid of boy, isn't he? The boy scout who takes the world on his shoulder. I empathize with him. I like how he struggles to submit to Killian. I enjoyed the conflict and the struggles. Basically, this is a story about two strong men who have different ways of coming to the "right" way to accomplish a goal. Colton is more black and white. Killian thinks outside of the box. I like Killian's way better. Plus, he wields a mean flogger!
I recommend this book to those who enjoy shifters and m/m romance. The focus is on those two rather than the BDSM. The BDSM is an added bonus.
August 26, 2011
I wasn't planing on writing a review;)
But, in a few words... Killian was wicked funny, and every time the story got too technical and confusing he would kind of break the pattern and push it all into a very different direction. Now Colton is this strong and dangerous killer but a good guy and Killian molds him how he pleases. Their relationship was pretty kinky and original. Usually the werewolves are the most dangerous and stuff, but here the line was very blurry and the confusing plot didn't help matters.
It took me a few days too read it and it went really slow, but the book is good if you stick with it. I liked the fights too and the way Killian had the last word. He was so refreshingly bossy!
But, in a few words... Killian was wicked funny, and every time the story got too technical and confusing he would kind of break the pattern and push it all into a very different direction. Now Colton is this strong and dangerous killer but a good guy and Killian molds him how he pleases. Their relationship was pretty kinky and original. Usually the werewolves are the most dangerous and stuff, but here the line was very blurry and the confusing plot didn't help matters.
It took me a few days too read it and it went really slow, but the book is good if you stick with it. I liked the fights too and the way Killian had the last word. He was so refreshingly bossy!
March 15, 2013
I loved Finn Marlowe’s free eBook „Not his kiss to take“ A LOT. It’s a great romance with characters you bond instantly with. Not so with this one.
As others have pointed out already there are a couple of major flaws, that killed it for me (I didn’t finish the book).
Not many reviews remarked on the language, so I just give you one of my favorite lines: Colton thinking “Killian Frost is the evilest werewolf ever born”. WTF? But maybe I just don’t get why “handsome and deadly” Colton has to think like a six year old.
As others have pointed out already there are a couple of major flaws, that killed it for me (I didn’t finish the book).
Not many reviews remarked on the language, so I just give you one of my favorite lines: Colton thinking “Killian Frost is the evilest werewolf ever born”. WTF? But maybe I just don’t get why “handsome and deadly” Colton has to think like a six year old.
March 16, 2011
Oh I really enjoyed this. The tortured beautiful man and the wicked lover who knows what he needs is one of my favorite plots. And Killian is to die for, I adored him and listening to the dialogue in his head. I hope there is a next book and we get to see them facing challenges but staying together. I can't wait to get this in print so I can put it on my shelf.
February 14, 2011
Very good kinky paranormal m/m romance about a werewolf and a shifter who become involved with each other in a very complicated fashion, even though their people are mortal enemies. Some pacing issues in the first half of the story prevented me from rating this higher.
August 3, 2012
This book was wonderfully fascinating. A whole new take on the shifter world and very, very enjoyable. I just loved Killian and Colton. I didn't realize this book has some BDSM in it, which just made me like it even more. So yummy, with hot, steamy sex.
September 10, 2016
4.3 Stars
Holy shit. I keep picking up these debut novels to complete challenges and am consistently blown away with how good they are. This isn't my typical read by far but damn, if more shifter/werewolf and/or BDSM titles read this well I could learn to love them.
Holy shit. I keep picking up these debut novels to complete challenges and am consistently blown away with how good they are. This isn't my typical read by far but damn, if more shifter/werewolf and/or BDSM titles read this well I could learn to love them.
May 16, 2017
3.5 Kinky shifters and werewolf Stars
Esta autora sabe escribir muy bien sobre el mundo BDSM y crea unas escenas Hot, Hot entre Killian y Colton e.e
Killian es un poco mean a veces pero es un buen Dom. Y Colton aunque al principio no lo acepte necesita dejarse ir y ser dominado.
La dinámica entre la pareja es buena y aunque quizás haya bastante sexo el plot es bueno.
El mundo paranormal esta bien construido y la acción bien descrita.
Me he fijado que a la autora le gustan los rubios y morenos. Uno más inocente y el otro más wicked y alpha. 3 libros suyos que leo con esa dinámica. Y me encanta <3
Posiblemente lea más de este autor. Me ha gustado como escribe :-D
Esta autora sabe escribir muy bien sobre el mundo BDSM y crea unas escenas Hot, Hot entre Killian y Colton e.e
Killian es un poco mean a veces pero es un buen Dom. Y Colton aunque al principio no lo acepte necesita dejarse ir y ser dominado.
La dinámica entre la pareja es buena y aunque quizás haya bastante sexo el plot es bueno.
El mundo paranormal esta bien construido y la acción bien descrita.
Me he fijado que a la autora le gustan los rubios y morenos. Uno más inocente y el otro más wicked y alpha. 3 libros suyos que leo con esa dinámica. Y me encanta <3
Posiblemente lea más de este autor. Me ha gustado como escribe :-D
April 3, 2019
3 and 1/2 Stars. Just like the main characters I had a love/hate relationship with this book. I didn’t like it at first, but the story and the characters grew on me. Finn Marlowe is a great writer although sometimes a little bit too flowery.
February 15, 2013
(Copied from the Book of the Month discussion at MMR)
I have a little different view of Colton. I think he thought he wanted to die but he was really looking for a way out. He could have died an honorable death at the hands of a werewolf any time simply by not fighting quite as hard. Also, he "jokingly" asks Killian if he can help him find another solution very early on - after the first night if I recall.
I enjoyed Killian's humor quite a bit. There was a bit too much sex for me, but it did add to the story and the characterization, so it was worthwhile. The story was exciting, but maybe a bit sketchy and not well thought out in places. It seems unlikely that for example. And the plan of killing Colton by sending him out hunting way too often wasn't very clever. He could have been a little more careful in his hunts, and/or just not come home until he was rested up. I wasn't clear on why Killian was able to
So, IMO this story was best in its characterization and story ideas, and weakest in story details.
I have a little different view of Colton. I think he thought he wanted to die but he was really looking for a way out. He could have died an honorable death at the hands of a werewolf any time simply by not fighting quite as hard. Also, he "jokingly" asks Killian if he can help him find another solution very early on - after the first night if I recall.
I enjoyed Killian's humor quite a bit. There was a bit too much sex for me, but it did add to the story and the characterization, so it was worthwhile. The story was exciting, but maybe a bit sketchy and not well thought out in places. It seems unlikely that for example. And the plan of killing Colton by sending him out hunting way too often wasn't very clever. He could have been a little more careful in his hunts, and/or just not come home until he was rested up. I wasn't clear on why Killian was able to
So, IMO this story was best in its characterization and story ideas, and weakest in story details.
March 16, 2011
Strangely, I really liked this book. I say strangely because there were things I think I should have had problems with, but I enjoyed it anyway. The world building was not extensive, and on a few occasions I thought I'd missed something as there were some references that I don't think were explained. Yet I got it. There was a lot of sex, but it wasn't repetitious and there was enough BDSM to keep it interesting. The plot was actually pretty simple and minimal, but when the characters moved into action it kept you on the edge of your seat. The thing I liked most, though, was the way the two guys talked. To be honest, I don't know if this was the author's intention or if it wasn't. Colton and Killian seem like they've been around a long long time, and some of their speech patterns reflected an older age, a more formalized style. Other times, their talk was peppered with modern slang and wry asides. It worked for me. I liked these men, two very stubborn, strong beings who found themselves slowly unraveling for each other. I'd read more, definitely.
October 22, 2013
Main Characters: Colton Decarie & Killian Frost
Key Themes: Enemies to Lovers, Interspecies, BDSM
Location: America & England
MM romance featuring a werewolf and a shifter.
Killian is a powerful and arrogant werewolf. He is also an opportunist, shrewd, calculating, and sexually indiscriminate. I liked him! On the other hand, Colton is honorable, gifted and a bit naive. He is a powerful but troubled shifter, has never been with a man sexually, and is still loyal to his murdered wife. I found him incredibly irritating!
I enjoyed this story, even though it felt disjointed at times, and I struggled with how much more BDSM and violence there was relative to the romance. It meant that I did not get the MCs relationship until the end. Even the last scene, which I expected would be a romantic reconciliation between the lovers, was instead another intense BDSM session.
All the violence, whipping and beating just became overwhelming, and seemed somewhat gratuitous, after a while.
Key Themes: Enemies to Lovers, Interspecies, BDSM
Location: America & England
MM romance featuring a werewolf and a shifter.
Killian is a powerful and arrogant werewolf. He is also an opportunist, shrewd, calculating, and sexually indiscriminate. I liked him! On the other hand, Colton is honorable, gifted and a bit naive. He is a powerful but troubled shifter, has never been with a man sexually, and is still loyal to his murdered wife. I found him incredibly irritating!
I enjoyed this story, even though it felt disjointed at times, and I struggled with how much more BDSM and violence there was relative to the romance. It meant that I did not get the MCs relationship until the end. Even the last scene, which I expected would be a romantic reconciliation between the lovers, was instead another intense BDSM session.
All the violence, whipping and beating just became overwhelming, and seemed somewhat gratuitous, after a while.
August 15, 2011
Strange bedfellows indeed! Colton is a shape-shifter who can take on many forms including a wolf, while Killian is a werewolf and Colton's mortal enemy. What could bring Colton to Killian's doorstep? Desperation, of course.
Though the author doles out information about their lives with a spareness that is frustrating at first, the plot develops quickly to the point where it is hard to put the story down. Their D/s relationship progresses into one of the hottest romances I've read in a while, every encounter delicious.
Lots of action and mystery in this story as well, which kept me glued to the book.
4 1/2 stars. Couldn't quite give it a 5 star rating, but I really like this dark tale. And I especially loved how the title phrase wound it's way into the story.
Though the author doles out information about their lives with a spareness that is frustrating at first, the plot develops quickly to the point where it is hard to put the story down. Their D/s relationship progresses into one of the hottest romances I've read in a while, every encounter delicious.
Lots of action and mystery in this story as well, which kept me glued to the book.
4 1/2 stars. Couldn't quite give it a 5 star rating, but I really like this dark tale. And I especially loved how the title phrase wound it's way into the story.
June 6, 2016
3.5 stars - I had a hard time getting into this book. It was very hot but I didn't get the dynamics between the 2 character. The second half of the story was better for me. There just wasn't much depth to the characters. The only knowledge I got of the characters are one is basically a BIG werewolf and the other is a gifted shifter. It basically was pages and pages of sex and then a few of storyline and then pages more of sex, etc. Good thing I like erotica !!
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