Review- How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying) by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

From New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks comes the next adventure in the Love at Stake series, featuring a Master vampire and his love affair with a woman of many secrets . . .

Vampire Zoltan Czakvar is on the hunt for the truth about his father's death. He's been searching for a very long time—since 1241, in fact. And he is not about to give up, even when he's attacked by a woman with striking blue eyes and a hell of a right hook!

Neona is also on the hunt. She's looking for a mate, and she thinks muscled Zoltan will work just fine. After all, men are good for only one thing. Soon, though, she realizes there's more to this handsome vampire than just sexual prowess. But she's keeping a secret from Zoltan, something so big that it will rock the vampire world.

Can their newfound love survive . . . even if their passion means the destruction of her world?

Release date: April 29th, 2014

Published by: Avon

Page numbers: 374

Review-

Lets just take a moment to appreciate the hotness of this cover. Done? Okay, moving on. How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying) is Zoltan and Neona's story. I actually had no expectations before going into this book but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading Zoltan and Neona's love story.

Zoltan is the vampire head of all of Europe. He has been living for more than 800 years and taking care of his people. But life has become monotonous and the only thing he lives for is to find the truth about his father's death. When Zoltan goes in search of the origins of an arrow which killed his father he comes upon Neona and thus begins their love story.

I really loved Zoltan. He really is seduced without Neona even trying. I loved how smitten he was with Neona and how much he wished for her to share her life with him. I also loved Neona. Neona comes from a group of female warriors who don't trust men. They live separately in a place where no men are allowed to enter, protecting a secret fiercely. Neona was such a unique girl. She was fierce but still had her vulnerabilities. She wanted to be badly loved but she was also very loyal.

Zoltan and Neona shared amazing chemistry since the first moment they meet. It was great to see how inexperienced Neona was where men and the current world were concerned. Zoltan was amazing too, with just the right amount of seductiveness and flirtiness. 

I loved the plot in How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying). There was so much history and so many secrets which came out. It made for a very in depth plot with enough things left unsolved to make for a great finale in the next book. I thoroughly loved How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying).

Review- The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

He's Out of Control

Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he's ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo.

Vampires? Vampires?! As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There's even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal's gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him—and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored?

Review-

I swear Kerrelyn Sparks comes up with the funniest titles for her books! They always put a smile on my face and The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo most definitely did. The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo is Dougal and Leah's story. I had liked Dougal before so I was curious to see what his history was. This was a good read.

Dougal is the vampire who had lost his arm after injuring himself in battle. Now he has a metal arm in place and he wants to prove to everyone that he is just as capable of doing his duty as the others. Only when Leah comes into his life things don't go exactly the way he had planned. I really liked Dougal. I swear I love all the guys with their scottish accents. He was eager to know more about Leah and explore the connection they shared.

Leah is a scientist who is hired by the vampires to solve their genetic puzzle. I really liked Leah. Like any sane person she did not believe in vampires at first but she came around to it. Her past made it difficult for her to trust Dougal or anybody else. At times Leah's behavior did get a bit irritating for me as she was hurting Dougal with her actions. Even though they may have been unintentional.

Leah and Dougal were great together. They share so much more than just a connection. It was interesting to see Dougal's history and how it collided with Leah. They both had stuff to get over and they did resolve their issues. 

I also enjoyed seeing all the couples from the previous books. It is like one big happy family in the Love at Stake series and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how everyone is doing with kids and all. The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo was an enjoyable read.

Review- Wild About You by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

Handsome Howard...

Hunky Howard...

Hot Howard...

It's not every day that Elsa Bjornberg feels delicate, not when she hosts a home renovation show where she can effortlessly demolish a kitchen. But from the moment she meets Howard Barr, this bear of a man makes her feel like a woman. And the way he looks at her, as if she were a pot of honey he'd like to lick...

Howard is not like most men. For one thing, he's a shapeshifter. And he always thought his celebrity crush would never amount to anything more than drooling at Elsa on TV. When his meddling vampire employer gets involved, the star is suddenly within his grasp—and within a hair of her life. For an ancient curse forbids their newfound love, and Howard is suddenly torn between his desire for her and his desire to keep her alive.

Release date: November 27th 2012

Published by: Avon

Page numbers: 370

Review-

I truly enjoy reading Kerrelyn Sparks' books. The Love at Stake series was one of the first paranormal romance series I read and these books are light, funny and romantic. Wild About You is the twelfth book in the Love at Stake series and it is Howard and Elsa's story. I really enjoyed Wild About You.

Howard is a were bear. I have never read about a were bear before but it is safe to say that he was just as smart and sexy as any other kind of shifters. The only thing is that he has a love for donuts which made him even more adorable. I loved Howard. He was a big cuddly bear who could be just as fierce when required. He's so very smitten with Elsa and will do anything to make her his.

Elsa and her crew work on a home renovation show. She has felt huge all her life but Howard is the only one who makes her feel delicate and feminine. I really liked Elsa. She was a sweet girl who was definitely attracted to Howard. But she was also sensible enough to be hesitant where the strange things going on around her were concerned.

I loved the banter between Howard and Elsa. Howard had a really good sense of humor and he was also cocky at times which made the conversations between them fun. Elsa was shy and sweet and a little bit unsure but together Howard and she shared great chemistry. I also liked how the whole curse thing played out between both Howard and Elsa's families. It was quite interesting.

Wild About You had a good plot to support the love story. Kerrelyn Sparks' writing is engaging and funny. We also get to see loads of characters from the past but the book can definitely be read as a stand alone. I had a great time reading Wild About You.

Blog Tour- Review + Excerpt- So I Married a Sorcerer by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

Growing up on the Isle of Moon, Brigitta knows nothing of her past, except that she is Embraced: born with powers that forced her into hiding. Everything changes when she learns she’s a princess, hidden away from her villainous half-brother who now rules the kingdom. But he knows about Brigitta, and he’ll do anything to get her back. Unless a certain roguish pirate has anything to say about it…

Rupert is both an infamous pirate and a sorcerer with the power to harness the wind. He’s been waiting nineteen years for revenge—and he needs Brigitta to get it. What begins as a kidnapping of the fiery beauty turns into a fierce attraction. But can he win the captive princess’s heart?

Release date: August 29th, 2017

Published by: St. Martin's Press

Page numbers: 496

Review-

So I Married a Sorcerer by Kerrelyn Sparks is the second book in her Embraced series. But rest assured that each book can be read as a standalone. I would definitely suggest reading the first book before getting to this one but it is not necessary. You know how there are some books which just make you happy- while reading them and after. They leave you with a smile on your face and you can't stop giggling at some parts. Kerrelyn Sparks' books fall into that category for me and So I Married a Sorcerer was no exception.

This is the story of Brigitta. She has lived her whole life with her sisters on the Isle of Moon. She knows nothing of the dangers of reality but she soon discovers that she is a princess and wanted by her half brother. It also just so happens that she gets taken by a pirate on the way. I loved Brigitta. She was sweet and fearless. Life threw curveballs at her but she just kept going. Brigitta was one of the nicest heroines I've read about like most Kerrelyn Sparks' heroines.

Then we have Rupert, the infamous pirate. On the surface Rupert may seem like any another pirate in his greed for gold but actually he has hidden intentions. He has his reasons behind kidnapping Brigitta. Rupert was a great hero. He took care of his people and protected them. He tried hard not to fall for Brigitta but he really couldn't help himself. 

Brigitta and Rupert were great together. Time on the ship only brings them closer though they are both keeping secrets from each other. Kerrelyn Sparks has a way of writing an ensemble cast where every person has a role to play and still doesn't get confusing or repetitive. We get a sweet side romance as well which was very cute.

Along with the romance there was an equal amount of action and adventure. There are several plots which move forward and Kerrelyn Sparks has built such a rich world that there are several undiscovered kingdoms and realms. It is difficult to categorise So I Married a Sorcerer. The book is a combination of historical and romance and paranormal and fantasy but the author makes it work and work well. I would suggest this book for anyone looking for something a little different and humorous. 

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.

   

About the author-

Kerrelyn Sparks apparently has issues with reality. After writing more than a dozen books about vampires, she has now completely gone off the deep end and wound up on another planet. But how thrilling that she can share this magical new world with her readers! Although she is best known (so far) for the Love at Stake series, which has hit as high as number 5 on the New York Times list and 22 on the USA Today list, she hopes her readers will love The Embraced as much as they did her merry band of vamps and shifters. To learn more about her paranormal, historical, and upcoming out-of-this-world fantasy romances, please visit Kerrelyn on Facebook, Twitter, or her website at www.kerrelynsparks.com.

Review- So I Married a Sorcerer by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

Growing up on the Isle of Moon, Brigitta knows nothing of her past, except that she is Embraced: born with powers that forced her into hiding. Everything changes when she learns she’s a princess, hidden away from her villainous half-brother who now rules the kingdom. But he knows about Brigitta, and he’ll do anything to get her back. Unless a certain roguish pirate has anything to say about it…

Rupert is both an infamous pirate and a sorcerer with the power to harness the wind. He’s been waiting nineteen years for revenge—and he needs Brigitta to get it. What begins as a kidnapping of the fiery beauty turns into a fierce attraction. But can he win the captive princess’s heart?

Release date: August 29th, 2017

Published by: St. Martin's Press

Page numbers: 496

Review-

So I Married a Sorcerer by Kerrelyn Sparks is the second book in her Embraced series. But rest assured that each book can be read as a standalone. I would definitely suggest reading the first book before getting to this one but it is not necessary. You know how there are some books which just make you happy- while reading them and after. They leave you with a smile on your face and you can't stop giggling at some parts. Kerrelyn Sparks' books fall into that category for me and So I Married a Sorcerer was no exception.

This is the story of Brigitta. She has lived her whole life with her sisters on the Isle of Moon. She knows nothing of the dangers of reality but she soon discovers that she is a princess and wanted by her half brother. It also just so happens that she gets taken by a pirate on the way. I loved Brigitta. She was sweet and fearless. Life threw curveballs at her but she just kept going. Brigitta was one of the nicest heroines I've read about like most Kerrelyn Sparks' heroines.

Then we have Rupert, the infamous pirate. On the surface Rupert may seem like any another pirate in his greed for gold but actually he has hidden intentions. He has his reasons behind kidnapping Brigitta. Rupert was a great hero. He took care of his people and protected them. He tried hard not to fall for Brigitta but he really couldn't help himself. 

Brigitta and Rupert were great together. Time on the ship only brings them closer though they are both keeping secrets from each other. Kerrelyn Sparks has a way of writing an ensemble cast where every person has a role to play and still doesn't get confusing or repetitive. We get a sweet side romance as well which was very cute.

Along with the romance there was an equal amount of action and adventure. There are several plots which move forward and Kerrelyn Sparks has built such a rich world that there are several undiscovered kingdoms and realms. It is difficult to categorise So I Married a Sorcerer. The book is a combination of historical and romance and paranormal and fantasy but the author makes it work and work well. I would suggest this book for anyone looking for something a little different and humorous. 

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.

Blog Tour- How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

Luciana grew up on the Isle of Moon, hidden away because of her magical powers. But when her father arrives, he offers her a choice: remain on the island or return with him and marry the Beast of Benwick in order to save their legacy—and her father's life.

Lord Leofric, the Beast of Benwick, has not been touched since he was a child. Born with the power to harness lightning, he is a danger to everyone he touches. When he meets his betrothed, he expects a loveless, lonely marriage...until he discovers she's vastly more powerful than he realized. But is she strong enough to withstand his touch?

If they can survive, their love will alter the future of the kingdom. But will their extraordinary powers cost them everything?

HOW TO TAME A BEAST IN SEVEN DAYS:

The Embraced Series

By Kerrelyn Sparks

Published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks

**On Sale March 7, 2017**

Mass Market Paperback | $7.99

ISBN:9781250108210| Ebook ISBN:9781250108227

“As Sparks starts a delightful new paranormal-romance series…Luciana and Leo’s erotic tension ratchets up.

Readers will relish Spark’s lovingly detailed and memorable tale and look forward to the next.”

—Booklist

“An entertaining first entry for Sparks' new series.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Sparks…creates an intricate, layered world that’s easy to fall into without tons of backstory needed. Luciana’s gifts were unique and made for a fun read with situations that led to all kinds of trouble, making this story a joy to read. The Beast, Lord Leo, is everything you’d want, without being so dark he irks you. Readers will be fully invested in this Embraced series!”

—RT Book Reviews, Top Pick!

Review-

I have read and loved Kerrelyn Sparks' Love at Stake series so I was super excited to start reading How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days. This is a new series by her and it takes place on another realm. While going in to this series I didn't have a lot of expectations. Like I knew it was going to be good but I still missed the Love at Stake gang a little bit. But I never should have doubted Kerrelyn Sparks. She is an amazing author and she comes through with this one.

Let's start with our heroine Luciana. Luciana grew up on the Island of Moon away from the mainland because of her hidden powers. But then her father returns for her due to unforeseen circumstances. Now she has a choice- either hide away on the Island forever or help save her father by marrying the Beast aka Lord Leofric. I loved Luiciana. She was such a sweetheart. She was pure and innocent where the world was a horrible place with people only wanting power. I loved how kind Luciana was and how she was with Leo.

Leo or the Beast of Benwick as he is known has not been touched since he was a child. He is born with the power to harness lightning so his touch basically electrocutes people. Leo was an amazing guy. He was strong and protective and actually cared about the people of his country unlike the King himself. Leo knows the King wants to assassinate him and his betrothed. As soon as Leo meets Luciana he is smitten. But he knows she's keeping secrets from him as is he.

How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days focuses more on the way the kingdoms operate as well as the Isle of Moon. There is a lot of backstabbing and planning and plotting along with attempts of assassination. But the romance was just as lovely with a combination of sweet and sexy. Luciana gives Leo the kindness and affection he's been craving his whole life and Leo in return protects her with his whole heart. I loved these two.

We also get to meet Luciana's sisters from the Isle of Moon who have also been hidden away for reasons unknown. I'm excited for each one of their books as I loved the bonds of sisterhood they shared. I also loved Leo's guard. His men were strong and loyal and I'm hoping we get to see more of them. Kerrelyn Sparks has created a new and unique world and with her sense of humour she made this book a very enjoyable read.

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.

About the Author

KERRELYN SPARKS is the New York Times bestselling author of the Love at Stake series. Visit her online at www.kerrelynsparks.com.

Praise for Kerrelyn Sparks:

"A deeply satisfying, delightfully swoon-inducing close...full of vulnerability and tenderness."

— Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire

"Mixing paranormal romance with humor, Sparks clearly has a style all her own, one that readers love."

— USA Today's Happily Ever After blog

"Sparks skillfully infuses her writing with a deliciously sharp wit."

— Booklist

Review- How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days by Kerrelyn Sparks

Summary-

Luciana grew up on the Isle of Moon, hidden away because of her magical powers. But when her father arrives, he offers her a choice: remain on the island or return with him and marry the Beast of Benwick in order to save their legacy—and her father's life.

Lord Leofric, the Beast of Benwick, has not been touched since he was a child. Born with the power to harness lightning, he is a danger to everyone he touches. When he meets his betrothed, he expects a loveless, lonely marriage...until he discovers she's vastly more powerful than he realized. But is she strong enough to withstand his touch?

If they can survive, their love will alter the future of the kingdom. But will their extraordinary powers cost them everything?

Release date: March 7th, 2017

Published by: St.Martin's Press

Page numbers: 416

Review-

I have read and loved Kerrelyn Sparks' Love at Stake series so I was super excited to start reading How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days. This is a new series by her and it takes place on another realm. While going in to this series I didn't have a lot of expectations. Like I knew it was going to be good but I still missed the Love at Stake gang a little bit. But I never should have doubted Kerrelyn Sparks. She is an amazing author and she comes through with this one.

Let's start with our heroine Luciana. Luciana grew up on the Island of Moon away from the mainland because of her hidden powers. But then her father returns for her due to unforeseen circumstances. Now she has a choice- either hide away on the Island forever or help save her father by marrying the Beast aka Lord Leofric. I loved Luiciana. She was such a sweetheart. She was pure and innocent where the world was a horrible place with people only wanting power. I loved how kind Luciana was and how she was with Leo.

Leo or the Beast of Benwick as he is known has not been touched since he was a child. He is born with the power to harness lightning so his touch basically electrocutes people. Leo was an amazing guy. He was strong and protective and actually cared about the people of his country unlike the King himself. Leo knows the King wants to assassinate him and his betrothed. As soon as Leo meets Luciana he is smitten. But he knows she's keeping secrets from him as is he.

How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days focuses more on the way the kingdoms operate as well as the Isle of Moon. There is a lot of backstabbing and planning and plotting along with attempts of assassination. But the romance was just as lovely with a combination of sweet and sexy. Luciana gives Leo the kindness and affection he's been craving his whole life and Leo in return protects her with his whole heart. I loved these two.

We also get to meet Luciana's sisters from the Isle of Moon who have also been hidden away for reasons unknown. I'm excited for each one of their books as I loved the bonds of sisterhood they shared. I also loved Leo's guard. His men were strong and loyal and I'm hoping we get to see more of them. Kerrelyn Sparks has created a new and unique world and with her sense of humour she made this book a very enjoyable read.

*Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. We thank them.