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Four favorite authors present their favorite characters in all-new tales of bloodlust, appetites that must be sated again and again, and the passion that feeds them.
"Beyond the Ardeur" (An Anita Blake tale) By Laurell K. Hamilton
Anita is attending a friend's wedding when Nathaniel, her pomme de sang, makes known in no uncertain terms that he wants to take the relationship to the next level. Anita's subsequent actions take her to a place she has hitherto carefully avoided.
***This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series!
"Dead Girls Don't Dance," by MaryJanice Davidson
Vampire Andrea Mercer is literally dug up by an old crush, Daniel Harris, and during a trip to Minnesota to see the vampire queen, her desire for him reignites.
"Originally Human" by Eileen Wilks
Succubus Molly Brown discovers a gorgeous, naked man in the woods and decides to help him recover his memory.
"Burning Moon" by Rebecca York
All werewolf Grant Marshall wants to do is rip out the throat of the man who killed his wife–then swim out into the Atlantic Ocean and never come back. He tracks his wife’s killer to a small New Jersey seaside town, where he meets Antonia, a blind tarot card reader--the woman with the power to change his fate.
"Beyond the Ardeur" (An Anita Blake tale) By Laurell K. Hamilton
Anita is attending a friend's wedding when Nathaniel, her pomme de sang, makes known in no uncertain terms that he wants to take the relationship to the next level. Anita's subsequent actions take her to a place she has hitherto carefully avoided.
***This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series!
"Dead Girls Don't Dance," by MaryJanice Davidson
Vampire Andrea Mercer is literally dug up by an old crush, Daniel Harris, and during a trip to Minnesota to see the vampire queen, her desire for him reignites.
"Originally Human" by Eileen Wilks
Succubus Molly Brown discovers a gorgeous, naked man in the woods and decides to help him recover his memory.
"Burning Moon" by Rebecca York
All werewolf Grant Marshall wants to do is rip out the throat of the man who killed his wife–then swim out into the Atlantic Ocean and never come back. He tracks his wife’s killer to a small New Jersey seaside town, where he meets Antonia, a blind tarot card reader--the woman with the power to change his fate.
358 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 28, 2004
About the author
Laurell K. Hamilton
359 books25.2k followersLaurell K. Hamilton is one of the leading writers of paranormal fiction. A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Hamilton writes the popular Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter novels and the Meredith Gentry series. She is also the creator of a bestselling comic book series based on her Anita Blake novels and published by Marvel Comics. Hamilton is a full-time writer and lives in the suburbs of St. Louis with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
January 2, 2020
My review is only for Dead Girls Don’t Dance. It is the story of the beginning of the relationship of Andrea and Daniel, who you’ll meet again in Undead and Unappreciated.
Andrea, after a couple of years unconscious straggling around as a newbie vampire, now runs into Daniel. Andrea had a serious crush on him in college, but back then, Daniel wasn’t interested in her.
Now he is very interested. Daniel reacts very smoothly to the news that Andrea has become a vampire, and attaches himself to her side.
He is sweet, funny, perceptive, and endearing.
Andrea is very lonely, her life centers on feeding, and hiding from daylight. She wants to die, for real this time, but she hesitates to walk into the daylight, or to starve herself. Daniel’s concern, comfort, and affection give her life a new perspective.
The story follows Andrea and Daniel on their ride from Chicago to Minnesota, where Andrea is about to meet the new vampire queen, Elizabeth. If you’ve already read the Undead series, you will be very pleased with the short episode featuring Betsy and Eric Sinclair. If you haven’t, it will make you more curious about the sassy, shoe-obsessed, all-powerful vampire queen, who is so enviably adored by her consort, Sinclair.
Awesome, laugh-out-loud funny novella of the Undead series. Do not miss it.
Andrea, after a couple of years unconscious straggling around as a newbie vampire, now runs into Daniel. Andrea had a serious crush on him in college, but back then, Daniel wasn’t interested in her.
Now he is very interested. Daniel reacts very smoothly to the news that Andrea has become a vampire, and attaches himself to her side.
Daniel had a hand over his eyes. "They're never going to believe this at the reunion."
He is sweet, funny, perceptive, and endearing.
"Oh, baby, if I get laid when you feed, then slap a sign on my ass and call me a buffet."
Andrea is very lonely, her life centers on feeding, and hiding from daylight. She wants to die, for real this time, but she hesitates to walk into the daylight, or to starve herself. Daniel’s concern, comfort, and affection give her life a new perspective.
"Now, come on. You're not bad, Andy, you're just—in a bad situation. Yeah. And it's so totally not your fault, it should be a crime. In fact," he said, warming to his subject, "it was a crime! Like, murder, anyone? You're just doing the best you can. And you said yourself you only go after scumballs . You're—you're doing a community service! Yeah, that's it, they oughta give you a friggin ' medal.”
The story follows Andrea and Daniel on their ride from Chicago to Minnesota, where Andrea is about to meet the new vampire queen, Elizabeth. If you’ve already read the Undead series, you will be very pleased with the short episode featuring Betsy and Eric Sinclair. If you haven’t, it will make you more curious about the sassy, shoe-obsessed, all-powerful vampire queen, who is so enviably adored by her consort, Sinclair.
Awesome, laugh-out-loud funny novella of the Undead series. Do not miss it.
April 6, 2008
Four short stories by four great authors.
Blood Upon My Lips by Laurell K. Hamilton
This is a condensed and slightly modified version of the first 13 chapters (95 pages) from Incubus Dreams , the 12th book in the Anita Blake series. It leaves out a lot of parts that don't specifically have to do with the Ardeur, making slight modifications to the story to allow it to flow smoothly without the missing pieces. Thus new readers who may have picked up this anthology as their first introduction to Anita Blake may not be all that impressed since most of the Anita books have multiple plot lines going on simultaneously and a lot of the good stuff has been stripped from this story.
It all takes place during a single 24 hour period, focusing on Anita's Ardeur. We also find out a great deal more about both Nathaniel and Damian. I found it okay reading only because I really love the Anita Blake series, however this particular story had nothing of danger or intrigue to it and seemed to drag on tediously in some spots. You're really better off just reading Incubus Dreams instead.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by Mary Janice Davidson
Though I haven't read her other books yet, this short story is supposed to take place between the times of Undead and Unwed and Undead and Unemployed. It's a funny, quirky tale of a girl vampire making her way to Minneapolis to pay homage to the new Queen. The writing style is drippy sarcasm and tongue-in-cheek humor. Overall, a fairly decent read.
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks
This is the second Eileen Wilks short story I've read, and though I didn't like it as much as the other (Only Human found in the Lover Beware compilation), it was still a pretty good read. For those who appreciate romance more than danger and intrigue, unlike me, you might actually prefer this one over the other.
Burning Moon by Rebecca York
A blind psychic and a werewolf, whose paths are thrown together by destiny, and danger. I appreciated this story enough that I've added all the books from York's MOON series to my wish list.
Blood Upon My Lips by Laurell K. Hamilton
This is a condensed and slightly modified version of the first 13 chapters (95 pages) from Incubus Dreams , the 12th book in the Anita Blake series. It leaves out a lot of parts that don't specifically have to do with the Ardeur, making slight modifications to the story to allow it to flow smoothly without the missing pieces. Thus new readers who may have picked up this anthology as their first introduction to Anita Blake may not be all that impressed since most of the Anita books have multiple plot lines going on simultaneously and a lot of the good stuff has been stripped from this story.
It all takes place during a single 24 hour period, focusing on Anita's Ardeur. We also find out a great deal more about both Nathaniel and Damian. I found it okay reading only because I really love the Anita Blake series, however this particular story had nothing of danger or intrigue to it and seemed to drag on tediously in some spots. You're really better off just reading Incubus Dreams instead.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by Mary Janice Davidson
Though I haven't read her other books yet, this short story is supposed to take place between the times of Undead and Unwed and Undead and Unemployed. It's a funny, quirky tale of a girl vampire making her way to Minneapolis to pay homage to the new Queen. The writing style is drippy sarcasm and tongue-in-cheek humor. Overall, a fairly decent read.
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks
This is the second Eileen Wilks short story I've read, and though I didn't like it as much as the other (Only Human found in the Lover Beware compilation), it was still a pretty good read. For those who appreciate romance more than danger and intrigue, unlike me, you might actually prefer this one over the other.
Burning Moon by Rebecca York
A blind psychic and a werewolf, whose paths are thrown together by destiny, and danger. I appreciated this story enough that I've added all the books from York's MOON series to my wish list.
June 19, 2011
First off, I don't care much for short stories. Very, very few authors are good at developing characters, plot, setting, etc. to write a good short story.
Second off, I think it's a rip-off for an author to write a series and then continue the story line in a short story in a book such as this, especially if that short story is going to be referred to in subsequent books. I really appreciate the authors who add their short stories at the end of a novel--a lagniappe, as it were, to the audience.
However, I have to admit that I do use books such as Cravings to introduce me to the styles of authors within the same genre who I may not be familiar with.
I was already familiar with the work of Laurell K. Hamilton (rip-off) and Mary Janice Davidson (good one). Laurell's story begins the seduction of Nathaniel, something I've been waiting for which should have been part of a novel while Mary Janice's story is an off-shoot of her Undead series, a favorite, irreverent vampire series. The two balanced nicely between the gothic prose of Laurell and the lightheartedness of Mary Janice.
Wilk's story was a fun off-shoot. Is she playing with a new idea? If so, I'd like to explore more of that universe.
York's story is a werewolf mystery. Why do so many werewolf stories have to do with bonded matings? When did that become part of the folklore? What does it say about modern Americans that we're so enthralled with the idea?
All in all, Cravings is a fun read but I'm still ticked off with Laurell because her readers need to read it to continue the series.
Second off, I think it's a rip-off for an author to write a series and then continue the story line in a short story in a book such as this, especially if that short story is going to be referred to in subsequent books. I really appreciate the authors who add their short stories at the end of a novel--a lagniappe, as it were, to the audience.
However, I have to admit that I do use books such as Cravings to introduce me to the styles of authors within the same genre who I may not be familiar with.
I was already familiar with the work of Laurell K. Hamilton (rip-off) and Mary Janice Davidson (good one). Laurell's story begins the seduction of Nathaniel, something I've been waiting for which should have been part of a novel while Mary Janice's story is an off-shoot of her Undead series, a favorite, irreverent vampire series. The two balanced nicely between the gothic prose of Laurell and the lightheartedness of Mary Janice.
Wilk's story was a fun off-shoot. Is she playing with a new idea? If so, I'd like to explore more of that universe.
York's story is a werewolf mystery. Why do so many werewolf stories have to do with bonded matings? When did that become part of the folklore? What does it say about modern Americans that we're so enthralled with the idea?
All in all, Cravings is a fun read but I'm still ticked off with Laurell because her readers need to read it to continue the series.
March 28, 2017
Anthology 4.75 out of 5 stars. Excellent for an anthology.
1. "Beyond the Ardeur" (An Anita Blake tale) By Laurell K. Hamilton - I started reading this and I kept thinking that I've read this before. I searched for this title or series # in the list of titles. Nothing. So I kept reading, knowing what was coming next. Then I went back to the anthology's blurb and saw this: ***This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series! No wonder, I have read it. I gave Incubus Dreams 5 stars, so I'll give this 5 stars.
2. "Dead Girls Don't Dance," by MaryJanice Davidson. I've read this one too. I have a feeling I read this before I was on Goodreads. I liked this story. Thought it was funny and sweet. 5 stars.
3. "Originally Human" by Eileen Wilks. Read it previously also. He's a "something different" that fell in love with her from afar. Cute story. 4 stars.
4. "Burning Moon" by Rebecca York. Okay I read all of these stories but this one was worth a re-read. Serial killer after handicapped woman and a werewolf who is there to stop him. 5 stars.
1. "Beyond the Ardeur" (An Anita Blake tale) By Laurell K. Hamilton - I started reading this and I kept thinking that I've read this before. I searched for this title or series # in the list of titles. Nothing. So I kept reading, knowing what was coming next. Then I went back to the anthology's blurb and saw this: ***This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series! No wonder, I have read it. I gave Incubus Dreams 5 stars, so I'll give this 5 stars.
2. "Dead Girls Don't Dance," by MaryJanice Davidson. I've read this one too. I have a feeling I read this before I was on Goodreads. I liked this story. Thought it was funny and sweet. 5 stars.
3. "Originally Human" by Eileen Wilks. Read it previously also. He's a "something different" that fell in love with her from afar. Cute story. 4 stars.
4. "Burning Moon" by Rebecca York. Okay I read all of these stories but this one was worth a re-read. Serial killer after handicapped woman and a werewolf who is there to stop him. 5 stars.
June 14, 2023
5 🌟
Enjoyed all of these short stories from different authors.
Enjoyed all of these short stories from different authors.
September 26, 2012
ORIGINALLY HUMAN by Eileen Wilks
Three hundred years ago, Molly was cursed by a vengeful goddess to become a succubus, a creature who lives off men's sexual energy. For all that, she remains very much human at heart. When a strange man literally falls at her feet, wounded and amnesiac, she takes him in and cares for him, physically and soon emotionally as well. She calls him Michael, and together they try to piece together who he is, where he has come from and who is chasing him.
I loved this story. I loved the characters, the setup, the pacing, everything. It was a delight to read and I'll be getting hold of my own copy as soon as possible. Molly is a delight and Michael is wonderful, knowledge and naive at the same time. The twist at the end of Michael's identity is brilliant and Molly's last line is perfect.
This can be read alone, but technically it belongs in Wilks' Moon Children series along with 'Only Human' from the anthology Lover Beware and Tempting Danger. I think I would have got some throw away references to Molly and Michael in Tempting Danger better if I had read this first, but it doesn't really matter.
[Copied across from Library Thing; 27 September 2012]
Three hundred years ago, Molly was cursed by a vengeful goddess to become a succubus, a creature who lives off men's sexual energy. For all that, she remains very much human at heart. When a strange man literally falls at her feet, wounded and amnesiac, she takes him in and cares for him, physically and soon emotionally as well. She calls him Michael, and together they try to piece together who he is, where he has come from and who is chasing him.
I loved this story. I loved the characters, the setup, the pacing, everything. It was a delight to read and I'll be getting hold of my own copy as soon as possible. Molly is a delight and Michael is wonderful, knowledge and naive at the same time. The twist at the end of Michael's identity is brilliant and Molly's last line is perfect.
This can be read alone, but technically it belongs in Wilks' Moon Children series along with 'Only Human' from the anthology Lover Beware and Tempting Danger. I think I would have got some throw away references to Molly and Michael in Tempting Danger better if I had read this first, but it doesn't really matter.
[Copied across from Library Thing; 27 September 2012]
January 27, 2024
"Blood upon My Lips" Laurell K. Hamilton (excerpt Incubus Dreams) read 8/3/2005
Dead Girls Don't Dance by MaryJanice Davidson read 8/4/2005
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks read 8/5/2005
"Burning Moon" by Rebecca York read 8/2/2005
re-read Sept 2015
Dead Girls Don't Dance by MaryJanice Davidson read 8/4/2005
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks read 8/5/2005
"Burning Moon" by Rebecca York read 8/2/2005
re-read Sept 2015
February 6, 2023
This review is so far singularly based on the story by Laurell K. Hamilton. This is a short in which readers are treated to a long awaited 'sweetening of the pot'..
So to speak in the relationship between Nathaniel and Anita.
With their appearance at Larry's wedding as a catalyst.
And the 'aurdeur' working its magic in some very interesting ways.
This is a very short but sweet and very necessary expansion into the life and relationship between Nathaniel and his now lady.
So nice to see Anita learn the meaning of requited unconditional love. After the demoralizing issues that she has experienced with Richard.
Although her love life seems to become more unconventional by the day.
The only reason that this doesn't get the 5 star rating is the fact that the story is not a new one.
Meaning that a large part of it is told in a previous book.
But other than its being recycled. The story is wonderful.
So to speak in the relationship between Nathaniel and Anita.
With their appearance at Larry's wedding as a catalyst.
And the 'aurdeur' working its magic in some very interesting ways.
This is a very short but sweet and very necessary expansion into the life and relationship between Nathaniel and his now lady.
So nice to see Anita learn the meaning of requited unconditional love. After the demoralizing issues that she has experienced with Richard.
Although her love life seems to become more unconventional by the day.
The only reason that this doesn't get the 5 star rating is the fact that the story is not a new one.
Meaning that a large part of it is told in a previous book.
But other than its being recycled. The story is wonderful.
March 8, 2011
Blood upon my Lips - Laurell Hamilton - Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter 10.5... hmmm I found this a disturbing story... she has multiple lovers, but not under her control, but the vampiric connection with Jean-Claude... and this story is of two of those almost lovers - one Damien, a servant vampire who craves her touch, and whose touch soothes her, and the other a shapeshifter, 20 year old Nathaniel - a strip dancer - called her pomme de sang - an outlet for her - it's confusing - her lust, her emotions, her need for blood - but she doesn't have sex with him, I'm not sure if she feeds from him... but... and now he wants sexual completion with her... and she has Micah - a werepanther - who seems to be her true lover - and yet... hmmmm... she is left with Nathaniel & Damien when she will soon be overwhelmed by her''' passion?... and it seems Micah wants her to have sex with Nathaniel... but as the night proceeds, the three go through a weird mind meld of past terrors, sharing with each other... and they end up mostly naked, and she is sandwiched between them... but she does not have sex with them.. and... hmmmm? I didn't get it....
Dead Girls Dont Dance - Undead #1.5 MaryJanice Davidson I liked this story much better... a traditional romance. Andrea and Daniel... Andrea is a young vampire (7 1/2 years old) and is just gaining control of her thrist... she is very intelligent, educated, and converted in a horrible ceremony, and she is lost - with no contact with other vampires (but she does seem to know a lot about them)... on the beach, she contemplates staying up for the sun, but buries herself in the sand... where that evening she is tripped over by Daniel... in college she had a crush on him - he's a beach bum, and now has an inheritance to allow it - he's, hmmmm... he wants to know all about her, and she trades her stories for a ride back to Minnesota - to the new vampire queen who is calling for her... they talk - he takes care of her - funny scene when he goes with her to a sleazy bar so she can find someone to drink from - and he won't leave her alone with him, though he is grossed out by her actions - and she is drunk, as her victim is drunk... then 3rd night they are together, they have sex, she takes his blood - it is her first time as a vampire to have sex, it tremendous - they go to a vampire library on their way to meeting the queen (he insists on going with her to protect her) ... and the queen only accidently became queen because of her demon dogs hmmmm... and her consort is taking care of most details of royalty... and she thinks he's going to leave her, but he says he doesn't want to... and they admit they love... and he makes plans for when she will turn him into a vampire so that they can be together forever....
Orginally Human by Eileen Wilks ... Molly - succubus - changed - 300+ years old - mostly happy - sad when thinks of people she has raised and lost - now friends with Erin, wiccan, greatgranddaughter of one of her adopted children... she has aged herself (starved herself from sex) enough to look in her 50s - a good looking 50, but it makes it easier to stick to one place longer - people notice 20 year old not aging... and one night, as she is contemplating leaving, she stumbles over a naked man in the sand - one who popped in from node (place where realms met in the past and now of magical power) who apparently has anmesia... as the story develops, he is the physical embodiment of the Codex, lost 800 years earlier - a magical book of spells that became sensient and then watched Molly and then came to Molly... her creator is after Michael (what Molly named him), and if he draws on power from the node (as he does when having sex with Molly, who feeds on sexual energy), the bad goddess can locate them... they travel to Cullen - werewolf/sorcerer - to get help... Michael knows an incredible amount of magic (his memory is mostly returned), but he's never created magic, so they rely on Cullen... and they mix the magic draw so that when they have sex it is Molly who draws on the node, and that is easily hidden.. but it means she can only be with Michael - a state of affairs she and he is very happy about...
Burning Moon - Moon # 4 Rebecca York Antonia and Grant... Antonia is a fortune teller, mostly with tarot, runs a bread and breakfast along the Washington coast, blind since 24 and she has been seeing a man coming to her - a man/wolf combination... Grant is a werewolf, whose mate of 6 month was murdered by a seriel killer - and he has spent the past 2 years tracking the man down with the intention of killing him and then ending his own life... The killer made the mistake of killing in his own town... Grant is drawn to Antonia - and she tries to 'keep' him without scaring him off - Antonia knows his darkest thoughts - and wants so much that he choose to live for her... two new werewolf thoughts - there can be a 2nd lifemate and a very sensuous scene as Grant pictures making love with licks to his woman in wolf form - how he eased his first mate into it, and how he pictured Antonia - Ultimately, love conquors - they catch the killer, trapping him when he attempted to poison Antonia - and get his confession on tape, making it so that Grant did not kill him, and saved himself...
Dead Girls Dont Dance - Undead #1.5 MaryJanice Davidson I liked this story much better... a traditional romance. Andrea and Daniel... Andrea is a young vampire (7 1/2 years old) and is just gaining control of her thrist... she is very intelligent, educated, and converted in a horrible ceremony, and she is lost - with no contact with other vampires (but she does seem to know a lot about them)... on the beach, she contemplates staying up for the sun, but buries herself in the sand... where that evening she is tripped over by Daniel... in college she had a crush on him - he's a beach bum, and now has an inheritance to allow it - he's, hmmmm... he wants to know all about her, and she trades her stories for a ride back to Minnesota - to the new vampire queen who is calling for her... they talk - he takes care of her - funny scene when he goes with her to a sleazy bar so she can find someone to drink from - and he won't leave her alone with him, though he is grossed out by her actions - and she is drunk, as her victim is drunk... then 3rd night they are together, they have sex, she takes his blood - it is her first time as a vampire to have sex, it tremendous - they go to a vampire library on their way to meeting the queen (he insists on going with her to protect her) ... and the queen only accidently became queen because of her demon dogs hmmmm... and her consort is taking care of most details of royalty... and she thinks he's going to leave her, but he says he doesn't want to... and they admit they love... and he makes plans for when she will turn him into a vampire so that they can be together forever....
Orginally Human by Eileen Wilks ... Molly - succubus - changed - 300+ years old - mostly happy - sad when thinks of people she has raised and lost - now friends with Erin, wiccan, greatgranddaughter of one of her adopted children... she has aged herself (starved herself from sex) enough to look in her 50s - a good looking 50, but it makes it easier to stick to one place longer - people notice 20 year old not aging... and one night, as she is contemplating leaving, she stumbles over a naked man in the sand - one who popped in from node (place where realms met in the past and now of magical power) who apparently has anmesia... as the story develops, he is the physical embodiment of the Codex, lost 800 years earlier - a magical book of spells that became sensient and then watched Molly and then came to Molly... her creator is after Michael (what Molly named him), and if he draws on power from the node (as he does when having sex with Molly, who feeds on sexual energy), the bad goddess can locate them... they travel to Cullen - werewolf/sorcerer - to get help... Michael knows an incredible amount of magic (his memory is mostly returned), but he's never created magic, so they rely on Cullen... and they mix the magic draw so that when they have sex it is Molly who draws on the node, and that is easily hidden.. but it means she can only be with Michael - a state of affairs she and he is very happy about...
Burning Moon - Moon # 4 Rebecca York Antonia and Grant... Antonia is a fortune teller, mostly with tarot, runs a bread and breakfast along the Washington coast, blind since 24 and she has been seeing a man coming to her - a man/wolf combination... Grant is a werewolf, whose mate of 6 month was murdered by a seriel killer - and he has spent the past 2 years tracking the man down with the intention of killing him and then ending his own life... The killer made the mistake of killing in his own town... Grant is drawn to Antonia - and she tries to 'keep' him without scaring him off - Antonia knows his darkest thoughts - and wants so much that he choose to live for her... two new werewolf thoughts - there can be a 2nd lifemate and a very sensuous scene as Grant pictures making love with licks to his woman in wolf form - how he eased his first mate into it, and how he pictured Antonia - Ultimately, love conquors - they catch the killer, trapping him when he attempted to poison Antonia - and get his confession on tape, making it so that Grant did not kill him, and saved himself...
August 11, 2024
An excellent mix
This was a delight to read! Each story is long enough to be a novella and to get four in one collection was a good surprise!
Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Series (30 primary works • 43 total works)
Series of urban fantasy novels, narrated by title character, Anita Blake. Anita lives in a parallel universe, much like our own, save that not only do things like vampires and shapeshifters exist, but their presence is public knowledge. The novels follow Anita's conflicts with the supernatural as she attempts to solve a variety of mysteries, come to terms with her abilities, and navigate a complex series of romantic and political relationships. (edited from Wikipedia)
Please note: Each book in this series is a whole story with a beginning and an ending, however the plot of each book relies heavily on the prior books in the series. It is recommended that you read the full length novels - including the novellas like "Micah" and "Flirt" - in the order they were published. At this time, the author has no plans on ending the series.
First this book begins with an Anita Blake story (see above) set early in the series between Books 12 & 13 where Anita is much less sure of herself & her abilities. It had been long enough since I read the early works that I had forgotten about the details that made her an interesting character. This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series which has more details about a major event in Anita's life that also affects Nathaniel & Damien. But if you're new to the series the story may whet your desire to read the series, at which point everything will make more sense on how it fits into her world.
The story starts quietly enough with Anita at the wedding of of a current friend who is also an animator she trained. Larry Kirkland is being wed to Detective Tammy Reynolds, who we meet in earlier books. The important parts happen further along...
Undead Series (16 primary works • 29 total works) Also known as the Queen Betsy series
I enjoyed the interaction in this Mary-Jane Dickinson story. I read another story about Queen Betsy quite a while back and had forgotten that the story was fun to read. The story is also more fully told in Dead Girls Don't Dance, another novella with a more complete ending of how Andrea first meets Daniel before meeting Queen Betsy. This version is still entertaining, but the other version is better since it doesn't end as soon. This is set between book one, Undead and Unwed & just before book 2, Undead and Unemployed.
The third story, Originally Human was an author new to me and I found it interesting and rather different from the typical urban paranormal fiction. It is part of the World of the Lupi Series (15 primary works • 26 total works)
An urban-fantasy, romance series. The listing here says: Please note: Each book in this series is a whole story with a beginning and an ending, however the plot of each book relies heavily on the prior books in the series. It is recommended that you read the full length novels in the order they were published. So while we don't know the back story the tale stands up well on its own (But now I need to start the series!) and involving another woman of power who gets an unusual visitor that drops into her life.
The last tale was a satisfying one that stood well on its own. It was also new to me and is book 3.5 in the Moon Series (12 primary works • 17 total works)
Paranormal romance series by Rebecca York
The story is about woman with interesting ability who meets a troubled man who has a dark secret. I looked at the Goodreads listings for both book 3 & book 4 but didn't see either character listed in the summary but perhaps they are somewhere in one of the books?
This was a delight to read! Each story is long enough to be a novella and to get four in one collection was a good surprise!
Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Series (30 primary works • 43 total works)
Series of urban fantasy novels, narrated by title character, Anita Blake. Anita lives in a parallel universe, much like our own, save that not only do things like vampires and shapeshifters exist, but their presence is public knowledge. The novels follow Anita's conflicts with the supernatural as she attempts to solve a variety of mysteries, come to terms with her abilities, and navigate a complex series of romantic and political relationships. (edited from Wikipedia)
Please note: Each book in this series is a whole story with a beginning and an ending, however the plot of each book relies heavily on the prior books in the series. It is recommended that you read the full length novels - including the novellas like "Micah" and "Flirt" - in the order they were published. At this time, the author has no plans on ending the series.
First this book begins with an Anita Blake story (see above) set early in the series between Books 12 & 13 where Anita is much less sure of herself & her abilities. It had been long enough since I read the early works that I had forgotten about the details that made her an interesting character. This short story is a condensed version of Incubus Dreams, book 12 in the Anita Blake series which has more details about a major event in Anita's life that also affects Nathaniel & Damien. But if you're new to the series the story may whet your desire to read the series, at which point everything will make more sense on how it fits into her world.
The story starts quietly enough with Anita at the wedding of of a current friend who is also an animator she trained. Larry Kirkland is being wed to Detective Tammy Reynolds, who we meet in earlier books. The important parts happen further along...
Undead Series (16 primary works • 29 total works) Also known as the Queen Betsy series
I enjoyed the interaction in this Mary-Jane Dickinson story. I read another story about Queen Betsy quite a while back and had forgotten that the story was fun to read. The story is also more fully told in Dead Girls Don't Dance, another novella with a more complete ending of how Andrea first meets Daniel before meeting Queen Betsy. This version is still entertaining, but the other version is better since it doesn't end as soon. This is set between book one, Undead and Unwed & just before book 2, Undead and Unemployed.
The third story, Originally Human was an author new to me and I found it interesting and rather different from the typical urban paranormal fiction. It is part of the World of the Lupi Series (15 primary works • 26 total works)
An urban-fantasy, romance series. The listing here says: Please note: Each book in this series is a whole story with a beginning and an ending, however the plot of each book relies heavily on the prior books in the series. It is recommended that you read the full length novels in the order they were published. So while we don't know the back story the tale stands up well on its own (But now I need to start the series!) and involving another woman of power who gets an unusual visitor that drops into her life.
The last tale was a satisfying one that stood well on its own. It was also new to me and is book 3.5 in the Moon Series (12 primary works • 17 total works)
Paranormal romance series by Rebecca York
The story is about woman with interesting ability who meets a troubled man who has a dark secret. I looked at the Goodreads listings for both book 3 & book 4 but didn't see either character listed in the summary but perhaps they are somewhere in one of the books?
December 10, 2018
Four stories by four different authors. Overall, the book was a one star for me. The individual story that I did read (and enjoyed), I would rate 3.5 stars. It is "Originally Human" by Eileen Wilks, and can be downloaded separately as an e-book.
1. Anita Blake series that I read several books of, until it devolved into porn. This story is written WELL after I gave up on the series; skipped
2. Davidson; Vampire porn--skipped
3. Wilks' well done short story that I reviewed (link above)
4. York; skipped after reading a review of her series "when she enters the house she find him naked and unconscious with an infected gun wound and decided to stay and take care of him. She knows there is something different about him but she can't deny that she has a strange attractions to him"
Ew...when the main character is lusting after a stranger who has a festering gunshot wound, I tend to think this isn't the type of book for me.
1. Anita Blake series that I read several books of, until it devolved into porn. This story is written WELL after I gave up on the series; skipped
2. Davidson; Vampire porn--skipped
3. Wilks' well done short story that I reviewed (link above)
4. York; skipped after reading a review of her series "when she enters the house she find him naked and unconscious with an infected gun wound and decided to stay and take care of him. She knows there is something different about him but she can't deny that she has a strange attractions to him"
Ew...when the main character is lusting after a stranger who has a festering gunshot wound, I tend to think this isn't the type of book for me.
March 19, 2010
Sadly, this is my second time to read/own this anthology book. I initially bought it (used) because I was going through my Anita Blake fixation. I had discovered Laurel K Hamilton's books and was tearing through them. I read the Anita Blake story but honestly don't recall reading any of the others. Because I only sort-of enjoyed the Anita Blake story, I took it to Half Price Books and abandoned it.
I have now just finished my Queen Betsy (Mary Janice Davidson) fixation and Cravings has one of the short stories in it. I didn't realize I had read it until I started reading the Anita Blake story. Yep...read it already.
I then read the Queen Betsy story and it was new to me (whew). It was cute and, for a short story, well done.
I will finish the book this time and will complete my review then.
I must admit that I prefer the full-length stories to the anthology stories because I like to learn about the characters a litle more. The anthologies don't give me enough time or depth to really enjoy them enough. Naturally that doesn't stop me from reading them. Since they are there, I must read them. Ugh, I'm a slave to the authors.
Eileen Wilks--Originally Human
A fascinating story, one that I would not have chosen on my own. I am not sure how to categorize this story--maybe fantasy? I really enjoyed that it was based very close to home (Galveston & Houston).
A woman discovers a man who just happens to pop into existence. Not much detail is given but we are led to assume it has something to do with magic. Slowly details are given about everyone’s origin but the main mystery of the story is the strange man’s origin (what is he, rather than who is he).
The only part I’m disappointed in, and can’t write about because it would spoil everything, is what he is. It was explained in the end and I still don’t know what it is.
Rebecca York—Burning Moon
I am not a huge fan of Rebecca York. I have enjoyed one or two of her books but have disliked the rest. This story did nothing for me. I read the first few pages and had to quit due to lack of buy in.
I have now just finished my Queen Betsy (Mary Janice Davidson) fixation and Cravings has one of the short stories in it. I didn't realize I had read it until I started reading the Anita Blake story. Yep...read it already.
I then read the Queen Betsy story and it was new to me (whew). It was cute and, for a short story, well done.
I will finish the book this time and will complete my review then.
I must admit that I prefer the full-length stories to the anthology stories because I like to learn about the characters a litle more. The anthologies don't give me enough time or depth to really enjoy them enough. Naturally that doesn't stop me from reading them. Since they are there, I must read them. Ugh, I'm a slave to the authors.
Eileen Wilks--Originally Human
A fascinating story, one that I would not have chosen on my own. I am not sure how to categorize this story--maybe fantasy? I really enjoyed that it was based very close to home (Galveston & Houston).
A woman discovers a man who just happens to pop into existence. Not much detail is given but we are led to assume it has something to do with magic. Slowly details are given about everyone’s origin but the main mystery of the story is the strange man’s origin (what is he, rather than who is he).
The only part I’m disappointed in, and can’t write about because it would spoil everything, is what he is. It was explained in the end and I still don’t know what it is.
Rebecca York—Burning Moon
I am not a huge fan of Rebecca York. I have enjoyed one or two of her books but have disliked the rest. This story did nothing for me. I read the first few pages and had to quit due to lack of buy in.
January 28, 2012
"Dead Girls Don't Dance" - This selection takes place between the first two books of Davidson's Queen Betsy series which is about a ditsy girl who suddenly becomes Queen of the Vampires. It is set in Minnesota, which is fun for me because that's where I live. Davidson is very realistic in describing her setting and even the language is very genuinely Minnesotan. I appreciate that quite a lot.
The main focus of this novella is a vampire named Andrea who is awakened on a Lake Michigan beach by a guy she used to have a crush on in college. She's been a vampire for several years, but she's still pretty thirsty and feeds on the guy before recognizing him. They catch up and he agrees to take her back to the Twin Cities to pledge fealty to her new queen. She's really smart and funny and he's kind of dumb and gorgeous, so their interactions are comical, particularly when you throw in the whole vampire thing. The tale is short; I read it in about half an hour, but it's pretty satisfying, funny and spark-filled. 4 stars.
April 26, 2014
Hamilton - Blood Upon My Lips - ZERO STARS!
& this story was terrible on many levels.
Basically, it should never have been a short.
Too much crap going on, no background, I didn't understand & couldn't focus on, care about or even keep track of all the characters.
Unfulfilling/frustrating conclusion.
I've never read anything by Hamilton & I wondered if maybe it would have been better had I read her other books in the series. So I looked up people's reviews of other books in this series and it turns out that MANY PEOPLE have a quite visceral NEGATIVE reaction as well, so no more LKH for me.
MJD - Dead a Girls Don't Dance - cute, fun read. agree with another reviewer that Betsy came off flaky & I might add bitchy to the extreme at the end. Very unlikable.
Wilks - loved this story, it kept me interested & liked the characters & premise. Will read more Wilks for sure.
York - didn't bother.
& this story was terrible on many levels.
Basically, it should never have been a short.
Too much crap going on, no background, I didn't understand & couldn't focus on, care about or even keep track of all the characters.
Unfulfilling/frustrating conclusion.
I've never read anything by Hamilton & I wondered if maybe it would have been better had I read her other books in the series. So I looked up people's reviews of other books in this series and it turns out that MANY PEOPLE have a quite visceral NEGATIVE reaction as well, so no more LKH for me.
MJD - Dead a Girls Don't Dance - cute, fun read. agree with another reviewer that Betsy came off flaky & I might add bitchy to the extreme at the end. Very unlikable.
Wilks - loved this story, it kept me interested & liked the characters & premise. Will read more Wilks for sure.
York - didn't bother.
June 30, 2013
I gave up reading this book because instead of being a series of short stories it appears to just be the start of a book by each author. If I wanted to read those I'd read the full book, not just several chapters. Thankfully I got this from a book swap so it didn't cost me a penny.
July 22, 2016
These stories were so incomplete it was annoying! I can honestly say I didn't enjoy any if them. Too bad since I really do like books by almost all the authors.
April 20, 2015
Rating is just for the undead series.
April 26, 2018
"Beyond the Ardeur" by Laurell Hamilton - 3 stars
There is a reason for a series to have a reading order and the Anita Blake series is a perfect example. Of the series I have read Book 1, Guilty Pleasures, and now Book 12.5, Beyond the Ardeur (also released as Blood Upon My Lips). I do not recommend reading the books out of order. This story involved Anita, Nathaniel, Damian, Micah and Jason. A lot of characters for such a short story. The "ardeur" seems to be some all-consuming hunger/passion that could potentially be deadly. The story didn't make a lot of sense and there were too many players involved in this out of control intimacy for my taste. What I did learn is that she is one jacked-up vampire/necromancer who has no idea of what she is or what she is capable of and frankly I'm not sure anyone else does either. I have to give the author credit because in this little sneak peak of all things Anita just enough background information was given about the male characters to peak my curiosity and want to find out more about each of them. So, at least for now, it looks like my TBR has increased significantly.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by MaryJanice Davidson - 4 stars
Very cute story about a young vampire, Andrea Mercer, traveling to Minneapolis to pay her respect to the new vampire Queen. She is reunited with Ben Harris, her super-hunky, super-dumb secret college crush, after he trips over her buried in the sand at the beach. Ben is not freaked out over her being a vampire and decides he is going to escort her to meet the Queen. Andrea is the type of person I would be friends with. Her sarcasm made up made for Ben's lack of intelligence (dumb jock syndrome at full throttle) and they made a cute couple. I'm still not impressed with Betsy so I don't think I will try to read book 2 but I enjoyed reading this fun little tidbit.
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks - 3 stars
I just don't know about this series. I tried reading Tempting Danger and got to about Chapter 3 before I ditched it. I liked this story because of it focused more on the romance and connection between Molly and Michael. Molly is a very lonely succubus and Michael is - I'm not even sure. I got really confused with what his abilities - all I know is that he's some majorly super magical bad-ass. I liked Molly because she was a good person with a kind soul. Michael I never totally warmed up to. I think he's a good guy but I had a problem with him remembering things but not saying that he did until she called him out on it. So maybe he's good and bad - I just don't know. I don't foresee myself reading any other books in this series.
Burning Moon by Rebecca York - 5 stars
Absolutely loved this story! A delightful love story about a blind tarot card reader who depends on no one but herself and a werewolf who's only mission is to find and destroy the man who murdered his mate. Antonia and Grant were both broken but found the courage to truly live again. I'm looking forward to reading the first book in this series and hope that it is as good as this little gem.
There is a reason for a series to have a reading order and the Anita Blake series is a perfect example. Of the series I have read Book 1, Guilty Pleasures, and now Book 12.5, Beyond the Ardeur (also released as Blood Upon My Lips). I do not recommend reading the books out of order. This story involved Anita, Nathaniel, Damian, Micah and Jason. A lot of characters for such a short story. The "ardeur" seems to be some all-consuming hunger/passion that could potentially be deadly. The story didn't make a lot of sense and there were too many players involved in this out of control intimacy for my taste. What I did learn is that she is one jacked-up vampire/necromancer who has no idea of what she is or what she is capable of and frankly I'm not sure anyone else does either. I have to give the author credit because in this little sneak peak of all things Anita just enough background information was given about the male characters to peak my curiosity and want to find out more about each of them. So, at least for now, it looks like my TBR has increased significantly.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by MaryJanice Davidson - 4 stars
Very cute story about a young vampire, Andrea Mercer, traveling to Minneapolis to pay her respect to the new vampire Queen. She is reunited with Ben Harris, her super-hunky, super-dumb secret college crush, after he trips over her buried in the sand at the beach. Ben is not freaked out over her being a vampire and decides he is going to escort her to meet the Queen. Andrea is the type of person I would be friends with. Her sarcasm made up made for Ben's lack of intelligence (dumb jock syndrome at full throttle) and they made a cute couple. I'm still not impressed with Betsy so I don't think I will try to read book 2 but I enjoyed reading this fun little tidbit.
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks - 3 stars
I just don't know about this series. I tried reading Tempting Danger and got to about Chapter 3 before I ditched it. I liked this story because of it focused more on the romance and connection between Molly and Michael. Molly is a very lonely succubus and Michael is - I'm not even sure. I got really confused with what his abilities - all I know is that he's some majorly super magical bad-ass. I liked Molly because she was a good person with a kind soul. Michael I never totally warmed up to. I think he's a good guy but I had a problem with him remembering things but not saying that he did until she called him out on it. So maybe he's good and bad - I just don't know. I don't foresee myself reading any other books in this series.
Burning Moon by Rebecca York - 5 stars
Absolutely loved this story! A delightful love story about a blind tarot card reader who depends on no one but herself and a werewolf who's only mission is to find and destroy the man who murdered his mate. Antonia and Grant were both broken but found the courage to truly live again. I'm looking forward to reading the first book in this series and hope that it is as good as this little gem.
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October 4, 2021It was enjoyable reading, but I don't think I need to reread it.
Since Laurell K. Hamilton's story was part of a novel, I could just get the novel. (Which I will do.) This story, however, is not really as good for an introduction into the world. Those who don't know the characters might get lost. Those of us who do know, and love, the characters, will have quite the ride ahead, as does Anita, when she tries to control the ardeur, and it proceeds to knock her around until something big happens that no one expected.
MaryJanice Davidson's vampire story was oddly humorous, despite having a bitter, bite-your-head-off heroine; not to0 my taste. It did have a good ending, and I liked the vampire queen.
Eileen Wilks' story had the most intriguing characters, with the male lead a mystery being I would never have guessed a character to be. If I were to keep this book, it would be for this story. I sure hope there are more stories with Molly and Michael in them, and more with Cullen. So many questions about the world, too...
Rebecca York's story is a straightforward paranormal romance with a thriller sub-plot. It could very well be a full novel. As a short story, it felt very rushed. As a novel, it would have more room for the drama to evolve, and for the characters' feelings/relationship to grow at a decent pace. I liked Antonia, but wanted to shake Grant until he got his head straight.
Since Laurell K. Hamilton's story was part of a novel, I could just get the novel. (Which I will do.) This story, however, is not really as good for an introduction into the world. Those who don't know the characters might get lost. Those of us who do know, and love, the characters, will have quite the ride ahead, as does Anita, when she tries to control the ardeur, and it proceeds to knock her around until something big happens that no one expected.
MaryJanice Davidson's vampire story was oddly humorous, despite having a bitter, bite-your-head-off heroine; not to0 my taste. It did have a good ending, and I liked the vampire queen.
Eileen Wilks' story had the most intriguing characters, with the male lead a mystery being I would never have guessed a character to be. If I were to keep this book, it would be for this story. I sure hope there are more stories with Molly and Michael in them, and more with Cullen. So many questions about the world, too...
Rebecca York's story is a straightforward paranormal romance with a thriller sub-plot. It could very well be a full novel. As a short story, it felt very rushed. As a novel, it would have more room for the drama to evolve, and for the characters' feelings/relationship to grow at a decent pace. I liked Antonia, but wanted to shake Grant until he got his head straight.
July 26, 2020
Skipped "Blood Upon My Lips" because it's been so long since I read the Anita Blake series that I was lost. I will likely go back when I start to re-read the series and remember who all the characters are again.
Mary Janice Davidson's short story was a decent read, if you don't mind characters who do a complete personality overhaul in 70 pages just because they get laid.
"Originally Human" had some interesting world building, but I checked out instantly when Erin's husband went from being named Jack to being named Pete (the name of the FBI Agent making trouble for the main characters) in a couple of chapters. He may be a minor character, but that seems like a big continuity error to miss in a 40-page short story.
I haven't started the last story and not sure if I even want to at this point.
If you have limited reading time, don't waste it on this.
Mary Janice Davidson's short story was a decent read, if you don't mind characters who do a complete personality overhaul in 70 pages just because they get laid.
"Originally Human" had some interesting world building, but I checked out instantly when Erin's husband went from being named Jack to being named Pete (the name of the FBI Agent making trouble for the main characters) in a couple of chapters. He may be a minor character, but that seems like a big continuity error to miss in a 40-page short story.
I haven't started the last story and not sure if I even want to at this point.
If you have limited reading time, don't waste it on this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2018
Four stories by four different authors. I'm not crazy about books like these, but, since I love fantasies, especially about vampires, I thought I would give it a try. Besides, I was snowed in and couldn't get to the library.
I didn't care for the first story, Blood Upon My Lips, at all. It was confusing and didn't make a lot of sense to me. I know, I know. How do supernatural beings make sense anyway? The story just needs to make sense.
I loved Dead Girls Don't Dance. It was quirky and a lot of fun to read.
Originally Human was also entertaining. It's been a while since I read about a succubus.
Burning Moon, a werewolf tale about murder and revenge was pretty good.
Although I liked three of the four stories, this book, for me, isn't a "keeper." Reading it once is enough.
I didn't care for the first story, Blood Upon My Lips, at all. It was confusing and didn't make a lot of sense to me. I know, I know. How do supernatural beings make sense anyway? The story just needs to make sense.
I loved Dead Girls Don't Dance. It was quirky and a lot of fun to read.
Originally Human was also entertaining. It's been a while since I read about a succubus.
Burning Moon, a werewolf tale about murder and revenge was pretty good.
Although I liked three of the four stories, this book, for me, isn't a "keeper." Reading it once is enough.
July 10, 2017
Yet another oldie but goodie (2004).
Blood on my Lips by Hamilton focuses on Anita's relationships with Nathaniel and Damian.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by Davidson is a really fun story set right after Betsy becomes queen of the vampires. It focuses on one of her subjects, a very new vamp named Andrea, who feels an undeniable compulsion to come pay homage to the new queen.
Originally Human by Wilks concerns a succubus (cursed, not born) who is making plans to leave before people start noticing that she is not aging. Her plans change when a gorgeous guy literally drops into her life.
Burning Moon by York is a nice little mystery with a blind psychic and a werewolf.
Blood on my Lips by Hamilton focuses on Anita's relationships with Nathaniel and Damian.
Dead Girls Don't Dance by Davidson is a really fun story set right after Betsy becomes queen of the vampires. It focuses on one of her subjects, a very new vamp named Andrea, who feels an undeniable compulsion to come pay homage to the new queen.
Originally Human by Wilks concerns a succubus (cursed, not born) who is making plans to leave before people start noticing that she is not aging. Her plans change when a gorgeous guy literally drops into her life.
Burning Moon by York is a nice little mystery with a blind psychic and a werewolf.
June 8, 2021
This short story is not about Betsy but Andrea Mercer. I have no idea why Andrea has her story told in this book and her connection to Betsy. I guess we'll find out in book two, Undead and Unemployed. (I Only read about them in book #3, so, I think this should be placed in #2.5)
In Dead Girls Don't Dance, Andrea accidentally runs into Daniel, a guy she had a crush on when she was still alive. She bites him, but not only that Daniel doesn't mind it, but he also offers to give her a ride to meet Betsy, the queen.
Andrea has long resigned to her fate of being a vampire, and she hopes that Betsy would end her suffering if the queen deems she's useless. However, Daniel opposes her decision and thought they would have a happy life together.
P/s: I only read MaryJanice Davidson's short story - Dead Girls Don't Dance because I do not want to read any spoiler if I decided to read the other author's book in the future.
In Dead Girls Don't Dance, Andrea accidentally runs into Daniel, a guy she had a crush on when she was still alive. She bites him, but not only that Daniel doesn't mind it, but he also offers to give her a ride to meet Betsy, the queen.
Andrea has long resigned to her fate of being a vampire, and she hopes that Betsy would end her suffering if the queen deems she's useless. However, Daniel opposes her decision and thought they would have a happy life together.
P/s: I only read MaryJanice Davidson's short story - Dead Girls Don't Dance because I do not want to read any spoiler if I decided to read the other author's book in the future.
July 4, 2019
I bought this book a few years ago to read the World of the Lupi novella between it’s pages. And then I put it away because I was still incredibly new to the genre of paranormal romance. Now, a few years later, a lot more involved in the genre and more than a little obsessed, I decided to pick up this collection again. And boy, was I glad that I did.
All four of these stories have a great paranormal spin to them. They’re tales of passion, romance and lust. Stories that involved a lot more of the paranormal than the passionate. But just enough spice that I still found myself wanting a good male companion for the night. As much as I loved the passion and romance, and in many cases, sheer lust, that jumped off the pages of these stories, I mostly enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the stories. From vampires to werewolves and back again, there were supernatural beings coming out of the wood works. With a little bit of humour, a little bit of darkness and a lot of bang.
For individual reviews, head to: https://earthandskye.org/categories/s...
All four of these stories have a great paranormal spin to them. They’re tales of passion, romance and lust. Stories that involved a lot more of the paranormal than the passionate. But just enough spice that I still found myself wanting a good male companion for the night. As much as I loved the passion and romance, and in many cases, sheer lust, that jumped off the pages of these stories, I mostly enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the stories. From vampires to werewolves and back again, there were supernatural beings coming out of the wood works. With a little bit of humour, a little bit of darkness and a lot of bang.
For individual reviews, head to: https://earthandskye.org/categories/s...
August 22, 2021
It was a good short story, the characters were likeable. What I didn't like is when they finally got to meet the Queen, Betsy sounded like a ditzy bimbo surfer! She was way too whiny and dumb sounding. If this was how she was portrayed in the first book, I'm not sure if I would've like it, let alone read more of the series. Hopefully it was just for this short story. We'll find out in the next book I guess!
February 7, 2018
I would have given it a 3.5 but I can't give it half a star. I enjoyed Eileen Wilks story about the succubus. It was very interesting and packed a nice story in a few pages. I wasn't just OK with the original purpose of my getting this book, Laurell K Hamilton's story was OK. That may be why it took a while to read it. I was able to put the book down.
July 26, 2018
Overall rating: 3.5 stars rounded up
List of short stories featured:
Beyond the Ardeur (Anita Blake short story) by Laurell K. Hamilton: didn't read
Dead girls don't dance (Undead/Queen Betsy #1.5) by MaryJanice Davidson: 3.5 stars
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks: didn't read
Burning Moon by Rebecca York: didn't read
List of short stories featured:
Beyond the Ardeur (Anita Blake short story) by Laurell K. Hamilton: didn't read
Dead girls don't dance (Undead/Queen Betsy #1.5) by MaryJanice Davidson: 3.5 stars
Originally Human by Eileen Wilks: didn't read
Burning Moon by Rebecca York: didn't read
April 3, 2022
Better Than Expected
I bought this book because of the Anita Blake Vampire Hunter story. Sadly, that was the disappointing story. It wasn't bad, but it turned out to be a few chapters from a book I've already read. The second and third stories were actually pretty good. The final story was ok
, but a bit too predictable.
I bought this book because of the Anita Blake Vampire Hunter story. Sadly, that was the disappointing story. It wasn't bad, but it turned out to be a few chapters from a book I've already read. The second and third stories were actually pretty good. The final story was ok
, but a bit too predictable.
April 15, 2024
4 shorts stories in one book with different authors where you can find a new authors that you didn't know. They gave you hot sexy handsome wicked mystery excitement at every turn of the page with many different ways they wrote. About new vampire learning about herself and getting along with her boyfriend visting the Queen of Vamps. Vampire, wolf, succubus a little of everything going on.
May 22, 2018
Blood Upon My Lips by Laurall K. Hamilton - 4
Anita is living with Micah and Nathaniel but hasn't become Nathaniel's lover yet. Anita has to work through who Nathaniel and Damian are to her and how they will work in her life and feeding the Ardeur.
Anita is living with Micah and Nathaniel but hasn't become Nathaniel's lover yet. Anita has to work through who Nathaniel and Damian are to her and how they will work in her life and feeding the Ardeur.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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