June 3, 2016 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Angelis Vampire Series, by Shane North

Paranormal/Fantasy Romance

Adult content

If you are after a romantic paranormal/fantasy read which has plenty of action with a kick-ass heroine or two, out -of-this-world lovemaking scenes, magic and mayhem, then you will want to consider Shane North’s Angelis Vampire series. Aside from the vamps there are werewolves and a host of other immortal beings who are striving to co-exist alongside the world of mortals. And, talking of worlds, we also have the key role played by Angelis, a world in another time dimension but which plays a pivotal role in the series.

If you want to read an interview with Shane, posted previously on our blog, which includes an extract from Shannon, the first book in the series click here. You can currently download Shannon for FREE:

Amazon US Amazon UK

Blurb

Shannon’s life is happy except for her nightmares, but when she watches her mom and dad being murdered by the monsters in her dreams, her life falls apart. Her best friend turns out to be a werewolf, the man she thinks of as her other father is the alpha male, and her long lost uncle is a vampire lord from Angelis. Angelis is in another time dimension, a world ruled by Royals, a pureblooded line of vampires with powers never seen in this time dimension. Angelis is a medieval world of castles, and ancient magic that her mother and uncle were forced to leave to save their lives.

Shannon’s journey leads her to follow her destiny and meet the love of her life. Destiny and her uncle lead her to find out what she really is, where she came from, and to become the strongest immortal to live. Shannon learns to kill quickly, and to love like there’s no tomorrow when she meets her mate from her dreams. Simon, an eight-hundred year old Viking has searched the world for his true love when he meets Shannon. What will Shannon’s uncle, Simon’s maker, have to say about this? A young woman from South beach, destined to overthrow the vampire council and rule the immortal race with the help of the ancient Shaman Neeb.

My Review

Paranormal/Fantasy Romance with a powerful heroine ~ 4 stars

Shannon, book #1 in the Angelis Vampire series is a sweet, but at the same time erotic paranormal/fantasy romance, with an original storyline. It contains a powerful heroine, magic, vampires, werewolves, fated mates and a battle between good and evil.

For me the read also has the feel of a New Adult/coming of age novel and this fits the storyline as the kick-ass heroine Shannon is trying to come to terms with her legacy after being thrust into the world of immortals. Her life is now far more complicated than that of a young woman from South Beach! She finds out that she is descended from a union between Callidora, a royal from Angelis, a world in another time dimension, and Connor an alpha werewolf.

Instead of going clubbing and shopping she needs to concentrate on using her growing powers – which due to her lineage are considerable, to destroy the evil Vampire Assembly, who murdered he parents and seize power. To the Assembly Shannon, the offspring of a forbidden union of werewolf and vampire, is an abomination to be destroyed.

Shannon’s task is not easy – she has to come to terms with the vast changes that are taking place in her life and the physical and mental challenges of being an immortal. It is fortunate that she has found the vampire Simon, her life-mate.

There are a numerous battle scenes, where Shannon and others show their combat prowess and also some scorching lovemaking scenes. The novel contains a number of engaging characters: her powerful uncle Damon, also from Angelis, who exudes charm, strength and humour; her best friend Cait, a werewolf and Cait’s father Keegan and of course her very own Simon, who is a girl’s dream.

I enjoyed the read and the author and the series has a lot of promise.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of the novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Blurb

My name is Shannon O’Callaghan and I’m immortal. I live in an amazing world of time travel and magic, where vampires and werewolves are normal and I call them family A family some would say are monsters, but they love me unconditionally and it’s the life I was meant to live. My father was Connor O’Callaghan, a visionary that led the wolves to peace and prosperity. My mother was Callidora Angelis, a Royal vampire from another time dimension. Their love and life together are what made my life possible, but, it is also what caused their death. And, it’s their death that fuels my journey of revenge on those who stole my life.
This immortal word is controlled by The Vampire Assembly. The Assembly is an evil group of twelve who decides the fate of its followers. They are devils dressed like mortal men who kill with pleasure and live off of blood slaves they keep in their dungeons. They are evil, they are responsible for my parents’ death, and I will see them dead. My day for revenge is finally coming and The Assembly is mine to kill. Then and only then will I rule this land as their queen.

My Review

Sexy and Fast-Paced! ~ 4 stars

The pace and the action hot up in Shannon’s Revenge, book #2 in the Angelis Vampire series. Shannon is now coming to terms with her considerable powers and, despite a few minor hiccups, she is starting to show great promise as a warrior and future ruler. Uncle Damon and Shaman Neeb, not to mention Cait her best friend and life-mate Simon are all on hand to support her through the process.

It is only a matter of time before Shannon, supported by an alliance of vampires, werewolves and the Elvin race, goes head to head with the Vampire Assembly and its leader x. Before this happens Shannon needs to bide her time, hone her growing powers and magic strike when the time is right. Yet the council leader Antonious is no fool and Shannon and her supporters will need all their wits about them.

I enjoyed the Shannon’s growth and character development in this novel and also how the author developed the other characters, especially Uncle Damon, with whom she has many verbal sparring matches. I loved the sexy scenes between Shannon and Simon, the humour and also the many action scene. Shannon is a powerful role model and heroine for although she has a soft heart she is a powerful immortal and is no one’s fool. She does not hesitate to do what is necessary and is dedicated to her goal of annihilating the Vampire Assembly. The ending is a worthy one.

Recommended for lovers of paranormal/fantasy romance who like an erotic read and a strong heroine.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Blurb

Death has arrived in earth’s time dimension. A foul stench filled Shannon’s nose, a smell of sulfur and death. This might have been a vision, but her power spiked as she sensed the source and moved towards it. Her life force surrounded her as her swords appeared in her hands. She gripped them tightly and stepped through a massive oak door. Before her stood a giant of a man.

His essence was black as coal, and his soul had long been lost to his dark side. His ancient leather armor looked old and battled; it smelled musty from the dried blood and looked dry and brittle. This had to be Kyran. Evil always had a dirty, unkempt appearance, and his aura was encircled with death. She could sense his blood was similar to Damon’s, and she knew she would take great pleasure in killing him someday. But what happens when Kyran is taken to earth’s time dimension by Neeb’s evil brother, seeking to kill the remaining royal Angelian family and end their bloodline forever.

In this riveting spin off from Shane North’s Angelis Vampire Series, an unknown Angelian is faced with death, her new life and the destiny the fates have planned for her.

My Review

High Octane and Entertaining! ~ 4 stars

Reagan’s Destiny is both a spin off and a continuation of the story arc contained in the previous novels in the series, Shannon and Shannon’s Revenge. The Vampire Council having been dealt with, the threat in this novel comes from Angelis no less, the medieval and magical world where Shannon’s mother and uncle were compelled to leave. Evil in the form of Kyran stalks Shannon and her uncle Damon, intent on destroying what remains of the royal Angelian family.

Reagan, a young woman with Angelian blood plays a key role in this battle and I enjoyed how this novel focused on her story, whilst including the characters I have grown to love from earlier novels. Shannon and Cait are destined to forge a strong relationship with this headstrong individual, but the path to their burgeoning friendship is not plain sailing. We know from Shannon’s trials that adapting to a life of an immortal and facing up to one’s destiny is not always easy and the author does a god job of exploring these issues, whilst maintaining a high octane and entertaining read.

Reagan is fortunate in that she manages to find unexpected love in the form of the vampire Lucius who she finds is her life mate. There are plenty of hot, sweet and romantic interludes amongst the bloody battle scenes and magic and I enjoyed the contrasting scenes. Kyran, as a powerful Angelian, is a well drawn and formidable enemy. Aided by the brother of Shaman Neeb, it will take everything Reagan, Shannon and Damon have in their arsenal to bring about his downfall.

Recommended to fans of paranormal/fantasy romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of the novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

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April 27, 2016 by Caroline Barker

Review Vampires of Maze (Beautiful Immortals series 2, book 3) by Tim O’Rourke

She’s back! Wicce Julia is hoping to bring peace to the Beautiful Immortals as the werewolves and vampires are at war with each other. But, do both sides really want to negotiate? It appears not. After travelling with weres to find the vampires, it cannot be helped that by spending time with them she is starting to find friends among them. And, as it is the weres who appear in more danger, the reader won’t help but side with them during the beginning of this series. With chases, fights, romance, mystery and magic this is a must-read for any paranormal/horror fan!

Title: Vampires of Maze (Part Three) (Beautiful Immortals, series 2)

Author: Tim O’Rourke

Genre: Paranormal thriller/adventure/romance

Release date: April 1st, 2016

Length: 65 pages

Blurb: From Tim O’Rourke #1 bestselling author of ‘Werewolves of Shade’ (Beautiful Immortals Series One) comes ‘Vampires of Maze’ (Beautiful Immortals Series Two) a vampire and werewolf romance with a twist.

Witch, Julia Miller, has been sent by the Wicce to bring an end to the war that rages between the Beautiful Immortals. Joining a pack of werewolves, Julia must travel with them to a land unknown to her. Here she will learn the horrifying truth about the dark secrets hidden in the town of Maze.

To stay alive, Julia will not only have to figure out who to trust but also who to love. For Julia’s worst nightmares are about to get a whole lot more terrifying as she heads into the war raging between the vampires and werewolves where even her own magic abilities won’t be able to protect her.

Note: This ends on an unbearable cliff-hanger. Part Four will be published within the next few weeks.

For readers 16+

REVIEW ***** (5* rating)

The story picks up exactly where we left off in Vampires of Maze part 2 within it’s first sentence. That terrifying cliff-hanger from book 2 is answered immediately. However, there is no time for calm as soon afterwards Julia and her were-friends are being chased down by many vampires. This is a fantastic action sequence with the speed of the chase and bullets being fired all over the place.

Julia was hoping to negotiate between the wolves and vampires to bring peace and stop the war between the two Beautiful Immortals. However, Julia’s thoughts begin to change as she realises that the vampires do not seem willing.

“And as the vampires looked through the air at us, faces twisted with hate and claws scratching the walls… any ideas I might have of ever finding peace with these creatures seemed impossible.”

We are clearly reminded of previous scenes from earlier on in the story via great dialog. In this instalment we discover what Julia’s nightmares entail, and why she can’t let herself become too close to a Beautiful Immortal.

I love Morten’s character: an older were that has guided them to where the vampires are at Maze. He has stayed in their company and worked with them, but he has appeared quite fragile until now. His courage and loyalty shows greatly in this instalment.

“… with an agility and speed that defied his decrepit look, Morten once more sprang into the air.”

Werewolves Trent and Calix come across as quite protective of Julia. They support many of her ideas, and even calm Rhea as her jealousy and suspicions of Julia and Trent burn more ferociously. I do believe that they Trent and Calix are taken with Julia and like her in an intimate way, however she also may be the answer they need as they begin to realise the wicce powers she possesses.

With every story I read of Tim O’Rourke‘s I feel I am taken as far as my threshold will go in terms of terror, suspense, thrills, passion and emotion; and yet there is always more with surprises and shocks, and even gentle, tender moments from some of the tougher characters when you least expect them.

The author writes so clearly and straightforward, with great description that you escape in the story and become a part of it. A rare quality that fans of the author embrace easily. Book 4 of Vampires of Maze is due for release in early May.

A copy of Vampires of Maze part 3 was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.

Vampires of Maze part 3 is available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

You can catch up with all info and reviews for the Beautiful Immortal Series 1, Werewolves of Shade, and the previous books of Series 2, Vampires of Maze below:-

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #1) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #2) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #5) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #6) – short story

Vampires of Maze (Beautiful Immortals series 2 #1) – short story

Vampires of Maze (Beautiful Immortals series 2, #2) – short story

March 31, 2016 by Caroline Barker

Review & 2x Signed Giveaway Vampires of Maze (Beautiful Immortals series 2, book 2) by Tim O’Rourke

The Beautiful Immortals series 2 is continued with the second instalment of Vampires of Maze. The war between the vamps and weres has been well under way, and it appears that there are few shifters left. Wicce, Julia, travels to England with a small group of weres in the hope of negotiating with the vampires to keep all parties, including humans, alive. But, is it possible to negotiate with such beings? Is she experienced enough? And, what of her personal feelings to the weres around her? She can only keep her distance to a certain degree from those she travels with. As tension runs high, and action is inevitable, you’ll be holding onto your seats with this paranormal thriller series from the talented Tim O’Rourke.

Please scroll down for a chance to WIN a SIGNED COPY of Vampires of Maze part 1 🙂

Title: Vampires of Maze (Part Two) (Beautiful Immortals, series 2)

Author: Tim O’Rourke

Genre: Paranormal thriller/adventure/romance

Release date: March 12th, 2016

Length: 70 pages

Note: This ends on an unbearable cliff-hanger. Part Three will be published within the next few weeks.

For readers 16+

REVIEW ***** (5* rating)

Vampires of Maze creates so much suspense and tension that the reader is glued to their seat. Tie that in with the action and gore, and the reader becomes easily addicted, awaiting the next instalment just as many viewers feel towards The Walking Dead (tv series). And, like the tv series, the Beautiful Immortal series leaves you each time on a terrifying cliff-hanger.

As a fan of O’Rourke’s work, I am quite prepared for the cliff-hangers, knowing that I will be in suspense until the next instalment, and knowing that they are going to be truly great. And, although they are all usually very surprising and horrifying at times, nothing quite prepared me for the SHOCK I was to find at the end of this particular episode! It’s written fantastically, but will leave you quite gob-smacked (although I am hoping for a different outcome than the one suggested). It’s a great thing we won’t have to wait too long before the next instalment is to be released!

Julia, the Wicce, and the small group of werewolves that she has travelled with are bound for where they believe the vampires are in the village of Maze. Although, they both have differing plans on how to end the war between the vampires and wolves; the weres are ready to attack and fight to the vampires death it seems, whereas Julia is hoping to negotiate, thus saving everyone including humans. Is she really that naïve to think the vampires would even listen? Or, can she stun them enough, using her magic, and then speak with them?

Julia is mocked and given her fair share of sarcastic comments, especially coming from were Rea. There has already been tension between the two, and this escalates when Julia is found in Trent’s arms after waking from a terrible nightmare. Although an innocent situation, Rea doesn’t exactly see it this way, and it is clear that Rea has deep feelings for her old lover. Will Rea be an enemy of Julia’s or can they reconcile their differences?

The were character, Calix, is growing on me more and more. Yes, he opens his mouth, he’s sarcastic and he likes a cheeky feel of Julia every now and then, but there is still a feeling that he has Julia’s back and sometimes has a kind word to say for her, even if he’s unsure of her Wicce ways. In my last review of Vampires of Maze part 1 I likened him to the character of Ajax in the 1970’s cult movie The Warriors, and I still felt the same way in this instalment. My favourite of Tim’s male characters is were Harry Turner from the time-travel paranormal Samantha Carter series, but Calix is great competition for first place.

This short story builds up suspense and is not without some fast-paced action, horror and gore. It’s terrifyingly exciting, full of mystery and holds a great deal of atmosphere. You’ll feel a part of the team with Julia and the shifters, and you won’t want to leave it there. I cannot wait for the next part of their journey!

A copy of Vampires of Maze part 2 was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.

Vampires of Maze part 2 is available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

GIVEAWAY!!!

The author, Tim O’Rourke, has 2 signed paperbacks of Vampires of Maze part 1 up for grabs!!!

For a chance to win one of two paperback copies all you have to do is add your name in the comments list below (or on our Facebook page) before Friday 8th April 2016, when the two lucky winners will be randomly selected. (We’d also appreciate a ‘share’ or retweet where possible.)

Good luck, guys

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #1) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #2) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #5) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #6) – short story

Vampires of Maze (Beautiful Immortals series 2 #1 – short story

June 17, 2015 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #6) by Tim O’Rourke

Tim O’Rourke’s Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals series 1, books 1-6) has been such a brilliant read. With one book being released each month, Tim has surely kept us all on our toes with some fantastic cliff hangers. Now the last book of the first series is available, and so for those that haven’t read this series yet, this is the perfect opportunity for you to read all six books in one go, and I will warn you now – you won’t be able to put these down for a second!

Title: Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #6)

Author: Tim O’Rourke

Genre: Paranormal fantasy

Date released: June 14th, 2015

Released by: Ravenwoodgreys

Length: 61 pages

Blurb: From Tim O’Rourke #1 bestselling author of ‘The Kiera Hudson Series’ comes ‘Werewolves of Shade’ a werewolf romance with a twist.

When the entire population of Shade go missing, investigative reporter Mila Watson knows this could be the big break she has been waiting for. Setting off into the mountains to the village of Shade, Mila soon learns that the village isn’t as deserted as she first believed it to be and that creatures lurk in the shades…

‘Werewolves of Shade’ (Part Six)

Note: This ends in a cliff-hanger. Part Seven will be published within the next few weeks.

For readers 16+

REVIEW

Picking up from where we left off in Werewolves of Shade (part 5), Mila is faced with walking straight into vampires that are now in Shade. With Calix, Rush, Rea and Trent by her side, Mila has to pluck up the courage and move swiftly in fighting off the vampires if she is to live and help protect her new friends. This is all quite a shock to Mila who was told that a witch had ended the war between the werewolves and vampires. Now, it appears that not everything was quite what she thought.

There is also a slight niggle in Mila’s thoughts that she may not be being loyal to the right people. After managing to shoot at a vampire she begins to question who she should be helping. But Calix, Rush, Rea and Trent have never done anything to make her feel that she shouldn’t help them. After all, they gave her somewhere to live, a job and helped in protecting her and defending herself. Maybe staying in Maze would have been the safest option, but she was so desperate to find out what had happened to her parents, and was happy to prove her independence and being able to think for herself by going to Shade.

In the heat of the action, shouts and gunfire, Mila is taken by a vampire and tied to a wooden, pole where she believes she will be burned alive. After banging her head, she drifts in and out of consciousness, and therefore, initially, not fully alert to the danger that she is in. The reader really feels fearful for Mila as a way out doesn’t seem possible.

“Was I now going to be ripped to shreds…? Would Calix and the others later find me dead – with my throat torn out and drained of all my blood?”

During her time tied up, we have a flashback of when Mila was back in Maze, when her uncle used to be away from home for a few days, and she would spend time as a young teenager with her boyfriend, Flint. These moments highlight the relationship she had with both Flint and her uncle, and how life has changed for her recently. She knows for sure that although she cared for Flint, he is not the one she is in love with. And, regarding her uncle, she cannot be certain why he didn’t tell the truth about the Beautiful Immortals. Did he know himself? Surely he must?

The writing is absolutely flawless as the reader is gripped with every moment that passes. The action, adventure, mystery and some brutal moments make it a very striking read that you will not forget in a hurry. But, as well as that, the reader also experiences every emotion there is when reading any O’Rourke story. The thrills and fear kick in, not to mention the rage that overcomes Mila during the gunfight at the beginning. There is also a comment from Calix that made me laugh that I’ll leave you to find!

This final instalment of the Beautiful Immortals series 1 holds many revelations as a great deal comes to light. Some I was half expecting but then others were a complete surprise, with a fantastic twist at the end. It is a brilliant end to the series as Tim O’Rourke loves to gobsmack his readers and leave them waiting for more…

A copy of Werewolves of Shade (Part 6) (Beautiful Immortals series 1) was provided by the author in return for an honest and fair review.

It is now available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Links to my reviews of previous instalments :-

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #1) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #2) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #5) – short story

April 13, 2015 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4) by Tim O’Rourke

As we begin this fourth instalment of the short story, paranormal fantasy series, Werewolves of Shade, we notice early on that the terror is turned up a few notches, sending fear to an incredible level. There is certainly more mystery to come, but with this added level of horror you’ll certainly be wanting to lock your doors and hide down under those covers as much as possible…

Title: Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4)

Author: Tim O’Rourke

Genre: Paranormal fantasy

Release date: April 4th, 2015

Released by: Ravenwoodgreys

Length: 72 pages

Blurb: From Tim O’Rourke #1 bestselling author of ‘The Kiera Hudson Series’ comes ‘Werewolves of Shade’ a werewolf romance with a twist.

‘Werewolves of Shade’ (Part Four)

Note: This ends in a cliff-hanger. Part five will be published within the next few weeks.

For readers 16+

REVIEW

This is another winner for me, and yet more proof that Tim O’Rourke‘s writing is better than ever. To be able to pack a short story with so much emotion, mystery and horror, as well as to keep the reader informed of the plotline is amazing, and Werewolves of Shade has it all. In the latest instalment the horror is built up tremendously, the excitement is terrific, and the intensity is dark and profound.

One of the most surprising turn-ups is Clarabel, the twin sister of the recently deceased Annabel. Being the new teacher in the village, Mila is aware that Clarabel hasn’t attended school and she has never seen in her in the village before. After being given the reason that Clarabel has been absent due to illness, Mila’s suspicions still run high as it still doesn’t explain that there are ten seats in the class when surely there should be eleven?

Nobody had mentioned Clarabel before. Her intimate talk with Rush the previous evening doesn’t quite make sense now. He knew she was upset about Annabel’s death, they’d talked about it at length. Yet Clarabel was never mentioned! He’d also previously told her that the last school teacher had been some old woman, and yet now a younger Julia Miller has been mentioned. But why would Rush have lied to her?

Not only that but Mila is also left questioning her thoughts after a terrifying experience with the wolf who stands outside her cottage. She wakes the next morning unable to remember certain events, and so surely it must have been a dream? However, some evidence suggests that the ordeal was as real as it felt! Did she really see the wolf change shape? How did her nightie get torn to shreds? And, where did those scratches that make the full length of her back come from?

There are more twists to come as Mila tries to figure out if Rush has lied to her, and if so, why? Can she really trust gravedigger, Augustus Morten? And Calix – is he really as grotesque and annoying as he seems?

This whole instalment kept me gripped and on my toes, with some terrific scenes of horror, some scenes heightening in the heat level, and plenty of mystery as always with O’Rourke. That said, the biggest dread of all for Tim’s readers is the wait until the next instalment (due May 16th 2015)!

A copy of Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #4) was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.

You can purchase Werewolves of Shade #4 at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Links to my reviews of previous instalments :-

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #1) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #2) – short story

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) – short story

March 5, 2015 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) by Tim O’Rourke

Released on 1st March 2015 by Tim O’Rourke, #1 bestselling author of ‘The Kiera Hudson Series’, came ‘Werewolves of Shade’ (Part Three), a werewolf romance with a twist.

For readers 16+

REVIEW

This short story series is getting darker! Despite there being so much adventure, there is always a great deal of mystery in Tim’s books, and part 3 of Werewolves of Shade is no exception! Thus far, Mila has left her uncle and best friend/boyfriend in the village of Maze, seeking her parents or what has become of them in the village of Shade. After hearing stories of the beautiful immortals, finding out about the war between the vamps and the wolves, and then hearing a possible myth that a witch ended it all, Mila has come to seek the truth. Believing Shade to be deserted she soon finds out otherwise and meets with Calix, Rea and Rush. This is a MUST-READ series for fans of paranormal, mystery, romance and even horror!

Assigned to replace the former village teacher, Mila has to meet the village children at the school. But she first needs to tackle the dark, mysterious alley where we left her at the end of Werewolves of Shade (Part 2). Not only does it feel claustrophobic and menacing, it seems to almost move and reach out to her – it actually put me in the mind-set of the never-ending alleyway in the film, The Labyrinth, albeit more menacing and terrifying! And just who is it who keeps calling her name? Surely it can’t be all in her head?!

Before she realises it, and not being able to explain how, she ends up on the other side where she meets with a most mysterious man in Augustus Morten. Although appearing to be friendly and kind towards Mila, the reader can’t help but be suspicious of him. As he walks Mila to the school it becomes apparent that he has spoken with Rea and knows a little about Mila. Is he talking to Mila to discover any holes in her story, or is he merely trying to be a friend? Finding out Augustus had been assigned as the village gravedigger made his character to be even more eerie.

The children of Shade seem fairly quiet as Mila begins to learn their names. Although speaking English she is surprised to realise their exercise books are all written in another language she has never seen before. And after, asking some questions, she realises that the children are not as open as she hoped. The story takes a turn when one child tries to answer Mila and is quietened by another. This begins to raise even more suspicion of the people of Shade with both Mila and the reader.

There is certainly more horror and gore in this instalment, following an unfortunate twist of events. But what will Mila make of it all? Is she partly to blame, and even if not, being the new stranger to the village raises suspicion and doubt of her. She is certainly going to have to gain the trust of people there.

Whilst Calix is still quite mean and sharp towards Mila, she can stand up to him. He gets under her skin and irritates her so much. Not forgetting the times when he seems a little full on and gets carried away with Mila, making for some very creepy and cringe-worthy moments! However, I can’t say that I completely dislike him, although a part of me tells me I should. There are times when I feel that his character may open up more and you could change your mind about him.

The one comfort in Shade that Mila has is Rush. He manages to subdue Calix a little and calm the situation, and make sure Mila is alright. They become increasingly close and open up to each other more. There are clearly feelings towards each other, but what of Flint, Mila’s boyfriend and best friend in Maze? Does she really love Flint or are they just friends? Is there really anything happening between Mila and Rush?

Part 3 is another fast-paced adventure with Mila getting deeper and deeper into her life in Shade. With a house, a job and a closeness to Rush, I do ask myself ‘will she ever be able to leave’? If so, how? And what will be her reason for leaving? But before we reach these answers, the biggest questions of all is ‘will she seek what she came to find?’ and ‘will she survive?’

The final twist and cliff hanger in this third instalment of Werewolves of Shade will leave you needing a change of underwear! It is petrifyingly brilliant, psychologically disturbing, just sheer horror that will leave you chilled to the bone!! And to extend the torture, we’ll have to wait until April 4th, 2015 for the next instalment!!!

A copy of Werewolves of Shade #3 was provided by the author in return for an honest and fair review.

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #3) by Tim O’Rourke is available at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

February 5, 2015 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals, Part 1) by Tim O’Rourke

From Tim O’Rourke #1 bestselling author of ‘The Kiera Hudson Series’ comes ‘Werewolves of Shade’ a werewolf romance with a twist.

Note: This ends in a cliff-hanger. Part Two will be released 13th February 2015 and is now available for pre-order.

For readers 16+

REVIEW

Another brilliant read from Tim O’Rourke! I love how he packs so much into this short, 72 page paranormal romance. Werewolves of Shade, part one of the Beautiful Immortals series is also a mystery with a hint of horror that is fast paced and will keep you on your toes. Every time I pick up an O’Rourke book I feel a sense of excitement as they never fail to impress and intrigue, with fantasy running through every single read!

In Werewolves of Shade the reader cannot help but sympathise with Mila Watson. After being brought up through her teenage years by her uncle after the disappearance of her parents, she has never let go of her curiosity and need to find out exactly what happened to them as they had left to investigate the village of Shade and never returned.

The war between vampires and werewolves was long over, but left the towns and villages in ruins. It was only a myth that a witch had had a part to play in the ending of the war. But was she real, or was it purely a myth? As Mila has grown into a fine young woman and discovered the truth of her missing parents she needs to find out exactly what became of them and to investigate the myths surrounding the vamps, wolves and possible witch!

But will she really find it so easy to leave her uncle behind? After all, he has brought her up, cared for her, taught her to be the person she is. And then there is Flint. Her best friend, her lover, and the one person she has been able to grow up with, confide in and share her time with. Are they together because they are close friends and need to feed their desires, or is it really love?

As well as being a beautiful love story and paranormal mystery there are scenes of action and a little violence. I LOVE how short and snappy Tim writes, straight to the point, the heart of the scene. This allows the reader to imagine every second as you get pulled in and feel the fear, panic and intensity. The characters are so easy to like and understand, and the mystery keeps you guessing.

The cliffhanger is brilliant and I can’t wait to read part 2 of the Beautiful Immortals. Whether you’re an O’Rourke fan already, or simply looking for a new paranormal romance with mystery you’ll love Werewolves of Shade!!

A copy of Werewolves of Shade was provided by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals, Part 1) by Tim O’Rourke is available at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

October 28, 2014 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW Claimed (True Alpha #6 series finale) short story by Alisa Woods

Hot! Hot! Hot!

I have been completely absorbed with this series. Each short story has been completely full of action, passion and emotion! Below is my review of this fantastic series. And what’s more – as from TODAY the True Alpha BOX SET is available at Amazon (links below), so you can enjoy reading the whole series back-to-back!! Go grab it!!

New Adult Paranormal Romance serial – LAST IN SERIES

Shifters live in the shadows of Seattle, just under the skin of the alpha male, dot-com entrepreneurs who are building a new Silicon Valley in the Emerald City.

Mia has found her way free of the dark wolves, but what price will her friends pay? And will she finally be able to find a place among their packs?

Claimed (True Alpha 6) is 65 pages or 16,000 words. It’s the final of six episodes in the True Alpha serial.

Adult content. Ages 18+.

REVIEW

Claimed was already going to be a brilliant read in my eyes, judging from the suspense and build-up of the first five short stories of the series, and Alisa Woods’ fantastic writing style. This is a series finale that was so much more than I expected and one that will be remembered and re-read. The reader won’t want to put this one down at all!

Now that Mia has been saved from the Red Pack her thoughts have been filled with how much she wants to belong and be a part of the Sparks’ pack. They have cared for her as if she was one of them already, she has become fond of many of them and felt the attraction of some of them. No matter what happens romantically this is where she belongs. But she does want to be mated so badly. Her inner wolf has strong feelings about this.

Lucas is always at her core and in her thoughts. He is the one that she is in love with. And, although he clearly cares for her a great deal and there is a deep, sensual attraction between them, he hasn’t been ready to mate again due to his heartache and pain following the death of his first mate, Tila. He just can’t go down that road again, especially if anything ever happened to Mia.

Over the last few stories, Colin, a strong wolf with alpha qualities from the Sparks’ pack, has been quite attracted to Mia. And he hasn’t tried to hide it! This has got Lucas’ back up on a few occasions. But Colin is HOT and so protective. Alisa Woods has written moments with Colin which shows he is such a powerful wolf but with caring and affectionate qualities. Especially towards Mia. The audience needs to know just how close he feels he is to Mia and how Mia has seriously thought about becoming his mate. To love him, and belong to the pack. Oh, I am a fan of Colin!

Although Mia is seriously considering to submit herself, she still has apprehensions since she was compelled to submit to Mace, leader of the Red pack, when she was kidnapped by them. Her whole experience of this has left her worried and concerned. She had no choice but to submit to Mace, despite her human state wanting nothing to do with him. It was a wolf thing that held her, like she was spellbound regardless of what she wanted. She now fears that whenever she does submit to someone in the future that these bad and negative feelings will return. She lives in hope that the next experience of submission will not be the same!

All short stories are available at Amazon UK and Amazon US individually. BUT, as from TODAY the TRUE ALPHA FULL SEASON is available to order!!

AMAZON UK link to TRUE ALPHA BOX SET

AMAZON US link to TRUE ALPHA BOX SET

You can check out my reviews for the first five books of the series below.

Desired (True Alpha #1) – short story

Guarded (True Alpha #2) – short story

Hunted (True Alpha #3) – short story

Captured (True Alpha #4) – short story

Sacrificed (True Alpha #5) – short story

Claimed (True Alpha #6) by Alisa Woods was received gratefully in return for an honest and fair review.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

October 25, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Sacrificed (True Alpha #5) (short story) by Alisa Woods REVIEW

For fans of paranormal, shifters and plenty of action!

Shifters live in the shadows of Seattle, just under the skin of the alpha male, dot-com entrepreneurs who are building a new Silicon Valley in the Emerald City.
Sacrificed (True Alpha 5) – New Adult Paranormal Romance

Even with Jak’s help, Mia finds escaping Mace’s grasp isn’t easy… in fact, it may require a sacrifice neither she nor Lucas want her to make.

Sacrificed (True Alpha 5) is 50 pages or 12,000 words. It’s the fifth of six episodes in the True Alpha serial.

REVIEW

Sacrificed is the shortest of the True Alpha series, focusing on the escape of Mia and her friend, Jupiter, from the Red pack. And the story picks up just where we left off in Captured, book 4. It appears that Jak, a shifter and member of the pack that is holding her, is trying to help her and Jupiter escape.

Mia is struggling with her thoughts. There is the question of why Jak would be interested in going against his pack and helping them. But worse still is the strong hold that her submission to Mace has over her, making it almost impossible to go against the wishes of her captor. In her human self she knows that she doesn’t belong here, with the Red pack, but her wolf has little control now that she has submitted. She must obey his wishes. Mia needs to find the strength to do the right thing, if not for her then for Jupiter.

Meanwhile, Lucas and his father’s pack have their own rescue plan to save Mia. Without spoiling too much, I can sat that there is plenty of action and it doesn’t go as smoothly as one would like. However, it is exciting to read and the fear for both Mia and Lucas’ pack reaches a high.

Mace was not so easy to escape from, and now the reader does not know what Mace will have in store for Mia. Lucas is only too aware of the situation and is helpless, regardless of his growling and snarling inner wolf. He knows that Mace will claim Mia for his own unless they can come up with something…………….. and quickly!

Sacrificed, as well as the previous books of the True Alpha series, create a fantastic build-up of tension and excitement for the final instalment, Claimed. I loved the ending of Sacrificed, especially with a nice surprise that no reader would guess. I am certain that Claimed will be as thrilling, if not moreso, than the first five!

Sacrificed (True Alpha #5) was provided by the author, Alisa Woods, in return for an honest and fair review.

Check out my previous reviews for Desired (True Alpha #1), Guarded (True Alpha #2), Hunted (True Alpha #3) and Captured (True Alpha #4)!

Sacrificed (True Alpha #5) is available on Amazon UK and Amazon US. (Currently individual books 1-6 can all be bought from Amazon for a small price. However, if you would like all books together in one set – this will be released on Tuesday 28th October, again for a small price. Book 6 and the boxset are available to pre-order in the time being.)

Reviewed by Caroline Barker