[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Demon Creed

About Paula Altenburg:

I’d like to be able to say I always wanted to be a writer, but the truth is I thought it looked like a lot of hard work. Life, however, sometimes leads us down paths we never intended to take.

From the very beginning, my parents encouraged my love of books. When a Grade One teacher suggested I wrote too many “thrillers,” my mother, an English teacher, said I could write – and read – whatever I wanted. My high school English teachers later backed her up on that. In university, I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Anthropology. At the time it was a whim, but it’s amazing how much that little piece of paper has benefited me over the years.Researching the history of civilizations has led to many intriguing worldbuilding possibilities.

When my children were babies and money was tight, my mother, grandmother, and husband bought me an electric typewriter for my birthday because they knew I was bored and wanted me to be happy. My mother became my very first critique partner, willingly reading pages and pages of manuscripts no one should ever have to suffer through. She researched markets for me, and introduced me to a journalist friend, who in turn introduced me to the Writers Federation of Nova Scotia. My brother and my brother-in-law introduced me to Thieves’ World, David Eddings, and Piers Anthony. Mysister gave me my first computer.

My grandmothers believed if something’s too hard, you aren’t working hard enough. My brother and sisters have all successfully followed their dreams, and my husband and two sons offer me proof every day that hard work is something to be embraced, not avoided. With these people behind me, how could I possibly stray from a path on which life seems to have planted them as guardrails?

Keep up with Paula online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

The Demon Creed

DEMON OUTLAWS Book #3

RELEASE DATE 5/27/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

As a highly skilled assassin, Creed is used to being called upon by the Godseekers for help. But in a world just recently rid of demons, the task to now track down half-demons isn't as easy as it seems. Not only is Creed himself a secret half-demon now going against his own kin, but when he discovers numerous innocent children are being kidnapped in the mountains, he second guesses his mission. Justice should be for all, not just for demon spawn. Living in a world of cruel men, Nieve has no memory of her life before her enslavement. But when Creed comes around asking questions about missing children, the memories of her half-demon son - and the demon who tricked her - come flooding back. Now, Nieve will do anything to get her son back...even if it means putting her trust in Creed. Together they set out to find the Demon Slayer who can help them. Little do they know the demon who fathered Nieve's son is also searching for Nieve, and he's teamed up with the kidnapper to draw her out. Creed and Nieve must race against the clock to save the children, their hearts, and the world.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

Well, this is apparently the last installment of the Demon Outlaws series, and I for one will be sad to finish reading about these brave characters who live in such a dangerous and twisted world. If someone had told me that I'd be reading an almost dystopian romance that featured demon hunting cowboys I would have just laughed, but this author has surpassed all expectations with these books. Incredible world building and now with this installment, it almost feels as if we have come full circle. A hero unlike any other and a chance to catch up with characters who captured my interest in the vey first book.

In the not so distant future, the world as we know it will topple and be overran by demons. Civilization will crumble and technology will be no more. Out of those ashes will rise a new way of life with god fearing people following goddesses and praying for the demons to be banished. One will be born with the power to help beat the demons back to their own dimension but disillusioned mortals will always fear that one day the demons will find a way back.

Creed is a demon hunting Assassin working for the god seekers and a recent spate of missing children brings him away from his usual haunts and further into the mountains. It's believed that the children that have disappeared are half demon and known as the despised Spawn, demonic hybrids with ungodly powers and the ability to call back the full blood demons. Creed is determined to find the truth and travels to a ranch where he's heard of a child being sold to slavers. What he finds there is Nieve, a woman whose very essence calls to him but she's cruelly mistreated and it's her child that might hold clues to what's happening. Creed saves her life and promises to help if he can but the journey they take is not an easy one. Nieve has been abused by both mortal and demon alike and doesn't trust easily but as they are thrown together Nieve faces her biggest fear, a demon! This demon is no child though as the demon is Creed! Creed has spent his life hiding in plain sight and now he will have no choice but to show his inner beast!

Creed is unlike any other paranormal hero I have ever read about! He's quite literally a man on a mission and he's not giving up no matter what the cost. As the son of a demon he can manipulate peoples minds and has always managed to live amongst the mortals undetected but fooling Nieve is not easy to do! I loved Creed! He's a sworn protector of innocents and thinks that everyone deserves a chance . Heritage, colour or abilities none of that matters to him. What he cares about is ensuring that everyone gets a fair hearing and the possibility of a future.

Nieve lives in a world were women are nothing more than chattels and it's a truly abysmal life that is forced upon her. She has been betrayed by everyone she cares about and yet is not totally broken. Her fervent desire to be reunited with her missing son drives her on but it's an inhospitable reality for women and she needs Creeds protection. Luckily Creed is not just the most affable Assassin you could ever imagine ( people always trust and like him due to his powers) but he's also total eye candy! Nieve is many things but she's not brain dead and as a female only too aware of Creeds latent sexuality . Don't expect lots of explicit scenes though as this story is completely plot driven and the relationship they form is only part of it.
It was wonderful to meet characters from the first book again and it felt as if old friends had returned . These are reluctant heroes who are just doing what they see as right in such an inhospitable environment. The authors words conjure up images of old westerns and to say it has a feel of the old west is probably the best description I can come up with! The world building is truly astounding and as the story progresses we see glimpses of what went before which made it for this reader very perturbing and quite believable . A disturbing alternate reality that has completely captured my imagination. 

As I mentioned, this seems to be the last in this series and maybe Ms Altenburg saved the best for last! Creed is a character who never expects to find love but the future is not set and there's hope for everyone. I will miss these characters and can only hope that whatever the author has up her sleeve next will be just as enthralling!

The Demon Creed

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Then Came You

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky animals. Any resemblance to the quirky animals in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website at www.jillshalvis.com for a completely booklist and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Connect with Jill at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Then Came You

ANIMAL MAGNETISM Book #5

RELEASE DATE 7/1/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

From the New York Times bestselling author of Rumor Has Itand the Lucky Harbor series comes the story of a woman whose world is turned upside down by one night's torrid fling...

Veterinary intern Emily can’t believe she wound up in the small town of Sunshine, Idaho, instead of the Los Angeles clinic she had always imagined. Now she has to put her plans to move to L.A. on hold for a whole year while she fulfills the obligation of her vet school scholarship.

Then Wyatt, her gorgeous one-night stand from a Reno vet conference, introduces himself as her new boss. And Emily is just as drawn to his seductive looks and quiet strength as she was on that very steamy night. She soon learns that Wyatt isn’t just a laid-back doctor, but a delicious alpha male tempting her away from her carefully laid-out plans...

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

This is book five in this authors Animal Magnetism series and lives up to all the hype surrounding it. Ms Shalvis consistently writes stories that feature likeable characters struggling with life's adversities and yet somehow meeting that special someone. With this author a warm fuzzy feeling is almost always guaranteed when you read her fun sexy romances and happily this book was no different.

Emily has been training hard to become a Vet whilst trying to be a supportive daughter but her Internship in out of the way Sunshine Idaho might just be a step too far! It's bad enough that she really wants to be closer to her lonely father so she can keep an eye on him but when she walks in and meets the guy she recently had a one night stand with ( her first ever!) and he turns out to be her new boss; what's Emily to do? Wyatt is sex on legs and boy does Emily remember just how good with his hands he was! For the sake of her job though, they must keep things professional . So strictly professional sounds like a good idea but just one more night sounds even better to Emily's libido and darn it but Wyatt seems only too happy to help! What's a girl to do? No this job is important so Emily is determined to ignore the raging attraction she feels for Wyatt and besides she has no intention of staying in Idaho or does she?

Great piece of pure escapism. Two characters both trying to deny what they feel and yet at the same time so conflicted . Emily has sacrificed a lot to be the perfect daughter and has a plan and being stuck long term in Idaho is not it! She can cope with one year but being in Sunshine she slowly lets her guard down and starts to realise that life is happening all around her and maybe it's time to just start to live rather then make plans.
Wyatt is a guy who has always needed to put down roots and he's finally where he wants to be. He has always been attracted to intelligent gorgeous career women but has suffered heartbreak as none have ever put him first. Falling for Emily who can't wait to leave is definitely not a good idea so guarding his heart is a must. Slight problem though as every time they are alone together sparks well and truly fly!

This is a lovely sweet romance, but there's also a mystery wrapped in it, so watch out for the bad guy! I liked that there's sub plots going on and interesting supporting characters . I have to admit that Emily was an unexpected heroine and constantly amazed me with her appetites and can I say she's very very weak willed when it comes to the sexy Wyatt! Although who could blame her?

Another winner from this author who writes with such aplomb that frankly I'm amazed I hadn't tried her sooner! Perfect light summer read full of romance and just enough drama to capture my attention. Ms Shalvis is clearly a master of this type of book and I can't wait to read more!

Then Came You

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Daylight Again

SE Jakes writes m/m romance. She believes in happy endings and fighting for what you want in both fiction and real life. She lives in New York with her family and most days, she can be found happily writing (in bed). No really…

You can contact her the following ways:
You can email her at authorsejakes@gmail.com
You can post to her Facebook page: Facebook.com/SEJakes
You can tweet her: Twitter.com/authorsejakes
You can post on her Goodreads Group: Ask SE Jakes
You can follow her Tumblr page: sejakes.tumblr.com
You can follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/authorsejakes

Truth be told, the best way to contact her is by email or in blog comments. She spends most of her time writing but she loves to hear from readers!

S.E is the proud creator of the MEN OF HONOR, EXTREME ESCAPES LTD,DIRTY DEEDS, PHOENIX INC, and HELL OR HIGH WATER series.

 Daylight Again

HELL OR HIGH WATER Book #3

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Before Prophet Drews can have a future, he must first put his past to rest.

Prophet Drews is a man on the edge, and he’s pulling Tom Boudreaux, his partner on the job and in real life, right over with him. When his old CO calls in a favor, Prophet asks Tom to join the off-the-grid rescue. But the mission raises all of Prophet’s old ghosts: CIA assassins, the terrorist Sadiq, and most importantly, John—traitor, former teammate, and Prophet’s first love.

To help bury those ghosts for good, Prophet and Tom gather the members of Prophet’s former SEAL team … and a spook named Cillian who’s been tailing Prophet for years. In the process, Prophet is forced to face his team’s shifting loyalties, ghosts who refuse to stay dead, and scariest of all, his own limitations.

With everyone’s lives in danger, Prophet and Tom must unravel a tangled knot of secrets, including their own. Prophet must decide how much to reveal to Tom, while Tom must decide how far he’s willing to go to help Prophet lay his ghosts to rest.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Devilish Diva - Shawnie:
It's not often that a book can hit any of my emotional personal points, and even rarer for a book to hit all of them, so imagine how I was feeling after I put Daylight Again down... I sat on the floor and dazed for a while, letting it all run through my mind, wrapping me up and making me accept what was probably inevitable. I fell with Daylight again, fell so hard I didn't know what to do, but I didn't fall for Tommy or Prophet, although they do hold a very special place in my oversized heart. 

Daylight Again is set maybe six months after the events that transpired in New Orleans with Long Time Gone. Tommy and Prophet have hit the "Shiny" stage of their relationship where they have stopped fighting what their hearts and bodies want. They are comfortable and as you know comfortable never last long, its a calm befored the very real emotional #@$# storm. 

It's time for a small, O.K a large portion of Prophet's past to leak out and when I say leak, I really mean it's going to be like the rapids and there will be no way for you to slow your raft or save your heart. There is no life boat and your only options are to sink or swim. 

With this book Prophet is forced to open old wounds and let Tommy in, which he doesn't want to do. Prophets first instinct is to protect those he loves, but those he loves won't accept that. He's got to let Tommy in, because his man won't except anything less, not if they are going to survive and make it to the light. In order to stand in the sun together they first have to do demolition work on the walls in their collective way. 

When Daylight Again starts S.E pushes us right into a flashback, one that we aren't even halfway ready for, and it won't really hit you until it hits Prophet, which makes it so much more powerful because it festers and you aren't even aware of it. From page one it's an all out emotional #@$# storm that takes you through all the known emotions, there is no reprieve or a life boat. There is no salvaging your tattered heart or stopping the inevible fall into Prophet's & Tommy's minds. 

It's not easy being Tommy. He knew #@$# was bad, but he had no idea. Even still but he isn't about to walk or run away from the only man who has ever known all of him. What he and Prophet have is something whole-heartedly amazing and he knows it. It's an uphill battle, but with each step Tommy takes with Prophet the reward is always sweeter. Besides apart they are lethal, but together... together they could take apart the world and put it back together. 

Tom & Proph have the CIA on their tails, Cillian making unexpected moves, and friends who will back them up no matter what. What more could these two ask for? Maybe a new kid around the house? LoL. I loved, loved, loved the Mal scenes (majority of you know why.) He is who I fell for, which seems impossible since this wasn't his book, but you get so much from the little interactions we get from him. Besides... *grins knowingly* stranger things have happened. 

5 Skulls and a case of C4. Highly recommended!

Daylight Again

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Hawk

A daydreamer at heart, Patricia A. Rasey, resides in her native town in Northwest Ohio with her husband, Mark, and her lovable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Todd.

Ms. Rasey is a three-time recipient of the Word Weaving Award for Literary Excellence and a three-time winner of the prestigious RIO Award Of Excellence. She is also a three-time EPPIE finalist and was a 2001 nominee for Romantic Times Magazine's Best Electronic Book. Additionally, Twilight Obsessions and Twilight Visions, two anthologies she was a part of, was nominated for the PEARL, the Paranormal Excellence Award in Romantic Literature, in the Best Anthology category. Her short story, In The Mind of Darkness won the P&E 2002 Horror short story category.

When not behind her computer, you can find Patricia working, reading, watching movies or MMA. She also enjoys spending her free time at the river camping with her husband and two sons. Ms. Rasey is currently a third degree Black Belt in American Freestyle Karate.

Keep up with Patricia online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Hawk

SONS OF SANGUE Book #2

RELEASE DATE 5/27/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Kaleb “Hawk” Tepes, as president of the Sons of Sangue and descendant of Vlad III, needs to keep his head focused on club business. Trouble is someone wants to divest him of it for a crime he committed against his vampire predecessors. He can’t afford distractions, especially those that come in the form of a five-foot-two sprite named Suzi, who once belonged to his nephew. In a moment of weakness, he makes a snap decision that can only spell trouble. Now faced with the one person who wants him dead, Kaleb must make the ultimate sacrifice or chance losing the only woman he truly desired forever.

Suzi Stevens has tried hard to put her past behind her and move forward. The one man she yearns for over all others, believes her to be nothing but cold-hearted. Hearing that someone has tried to behead him, she shelves past prejudices and rushes to his side, needing to see for herself that he’s all right. What she doesn’t count on is Hawk’s demand to take her as his personal blood donor. Now forced to endure his company, she fears losing her heart for all eternity to the one person who has the power to crush her.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review

After thoroughly enjoying Viper (book #1), I was more than excited for the release of Hawk. Especially because Kaleb grabbed my attention in book #1 and made me want to know more...

Hawk picks up where Viper left off, but I believe it can be read well as standalone. I would personally recommend reading the books in order - Viper and then Hawk - but if you're unable, you will be able to enjoy Hawk without first reading Viper. Just not *quite* as much.

In Viper, the Sons were forced to kill a primordial vampire, make some shaky alliances, break a ton of rules, and completely change the dynamic of their MC. Hawk takes those things to the next level with additional shakeup within their Club, several attempted murders, a kidnapping, betrayal, a hard earned love story HEA, a bunch of surprises, and one heck of a set up for the power couple... er couples!?... for book #3.

Kaleb and Suzi have been fighting their attraction for one another for over 10 years and there are some heavy duty secrets and half truths that make their relationship beyond tension filled. Because of this, their interaction in the book is both hard to take and an utter relief when they finally figure things out. LOL You will feel just about every emotion for them and it's most certainly a sexy 'me Tarzan you Jane' adventure.

Hawk, SONS OF SANGUE #2 is an intense, action-packed roller-coaster ride, and you will learn much more about some of the other Sons and supporting characters. I am REALLY curious to see how Patricia spins the next tale given the crazy circumstances of the newest 'mate' and the introduction of the new character(s).

SONS OF SANGUE is highly recommended to Paranormal Romance readers who like their heroes Alpha, their heroines able to hold their own yet willingly submit to the sexy bad boys, and plenty of MC territorial action and intrigue.

Hawk

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Once Again

Theresa Paolo lives in the same town she grew up in on Long Island, NY with her boyfriend and Milton, their big eyed goldfish. She has a hard time accepting the fact she’s nearing thirty which is why she writes New Adult and Young Adult books, reliving the best and worst years of her life through her characters. She put her love of writing on hold while she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Dowling College. On November 11th 2011 at 11:11 she made a wish. Two hours later she was laid off. Jobless for the first time since she was sixteen she was determined to make her wish come true. Writing became her life again and after many nights of ignoring her boyfriend to spend time with her characters, she finally received the call that all her hard work, finger crossing and eye crossing paid off. She was getting published. When she’s not writing, she’s behind a camera or can be found in the blogosphere or on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook. She is repped by the amazing Brittany Booker of The Booker Albert Literary Agency.

Connect with Theresa online at her Blog, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

(Once) Again

AGAIN Book #2

RELEASE DATE 6/17/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Josh will have to reconcile his past…

In order to make Kat his future.

After surviving a real-life nightmare, Josh Wagner is sent home from his dream college on crutches. Bedridden and tormented by flashbacks, he’s just seen his world shattered and his baseball scholarship go up in smoke. Josh’s family hires a health aide to help take care of him, but when he opens the door, the last person he expects to see is his biggest regret…

Katherine Singleton is the only girl Josh has ever loved. Now, even though she’s only taking care of him because it’s her job, Josh is determined to win her back. But Kat had to move on after their breakup two years ago, and despite her feelings for Josh, a lot has happened since he left…

When Kat’s past comes back to haunt her, Josh decides it’s his turn to take care of her. But protecting her—and redeeming himself—will put Josh in the line of fire again. Will he survive this time?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I first discovered this authors work when I read Never Again last year and was immensely surprised by how much emotion Ms Paolo generated in me. This book returns to characters previously discovered but switches the story to Josh who had been a supporting character. In this book we learn how he's coping after suffering through a heinous event that has left him traumatised and needing support.

Josh met Kat two years ago but failed to convince her just how much she really meant to him. Now he's facing the aftermath of the terrible events that took place at his college, a massacre that left his friends dead and him wounded. Josh is understandably traumatised by it but is struggling with his physical recovery but when he meets the woman who is assigned to help him it's Kat the only girl that he's ever loved!

This is a story that will resonate with many readers and although it's a romance aimed at young adults will appeal to those of all ages. Josh is a young man who is facing the very real prospect of never realising his dreams of being a baseball star but he is written as a guy full of humour and I thought the author captured a young mans viewpoint beautifully .I had genuine laugh out loud moments as he's so entertaining and I just wanted him to have his happy ending and get the girl!

Kat is the heroine of this book and she's a young woman who sacrifices much to do what she feels is the right thing and I liked her so much. She's had to be strong and unbeknownst to Josh has suffered truly harrowing events in her life. Unfortunately her problems may not be over and she will need all her strength to face what's coming. She is quite hard on a Josh at times but he needs that as he needs for those around him to make him see that he's still normal in spite of his recent injury. As for his injury there's a moment in this story when I am unashamed to admit I had tears in my eyes as Josh recounts what happened .

I would imagine most readers who pick this up will be expecting a second chance romance and yes it is that but so much more besides. It's an emotional story that's very well written about believable characters. I started reading this and admit I kept going as I just had to finish it. This story and indeed this series is most definitely recommended .

(Once) Again

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of When Day Breaks

Maya Banks is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today and international bestselling author of over 50 novels. A wife and mother of three, she lives in Texas.

Keep up with Maya at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

When Day Breaks

KGI Book #9

RELEASE DATE 6/24/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N / iTunes

The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super-elite, top secret, family-run business.
Qualifications: High intelligence, rock-hard body, military background.

Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the U.S. government can’t…

Eden is said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her face has graced countless magazines and her body has sold millions of dollars of clothing. But her fame and beauty has earned her more than she ever imagined. Evil is stalking her, determined to extinguish the ethereal beauty forever.

Swanson or “Swanny” as his teammates call him is always up for the next mission. He came back from Afghanistan wounded and scarred. Hardly the kind of man who even belongs in the same room with Eden. And yet there’s something about the quiet beauty that stirs his blood and makes him dream of the impossible. Because Beauty loving the beast only happens in fairy tales and KGI doesn’t deal in fairy tales. Ever.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

This is the ninth book in this very popular series that is centred around a military family. The Kelly family have all served in various parts of the military and their breadth of experience is something they put to good use working as a top secret recovery organisation . When something goes wrong and you need help then there's none better than KGI!

Swanson or Swanny as he's known served in Afghanistan with Nathan and Joe Kelly where he was captured, tortured and left hideously disfigured. The Kelly's are a fiercely loyal family and when Swanny needed a job there was never a doubt that he belonged with them . Now adopted into the family business he's found his place in the world and if being a badass is called for then he's the one for the job!

Eden works as a model and she's slowly but surely climbing to the top of that cutthroat world. Hailed as one of the most beautiful women in the world she's somehow managed to keep her feet on the ground but her perfect world is about to come crashing down ! Edens father has a secret and it's been eating away at him but now that secret is about to raise it's ugly head and Eden is the one whose in danger of being bitten! She needs protection and it has to be the best but luckily her brother Ryker served with the Kelly's and Swanny so he knows just who to call. Swanny spent many a cold lonely night remembering the photos Ryker had of his lovely sister and now he can't quite believe that he's finally going to meet her. Swanny realises that women find his looks frightening but Eden sees beneath the scars and what she sees is all man!

I love the Kelly's and all the associated characters that have somehow been adopted into their clan . These fierce, hard working characters just leap off the page with their own special brand of troubleshooting . This is romantic suspense at it's best and has delighted readers for quite some time but I must admit I felt a little disappointed with the first half of this book. I guess I just wanted a bit more action but the author spent the time allowing readers to catch up with characters from previous stories and see what was happening in their lives. I'm sure some readers will enjoy seeing the softer side of these tough men but I much prefer more action and plot.

The romance between Eden and Swanny was a gentle one but a little surprising. Eden works in the very brash and hard world of modelling so finding her to be sweet and innocent just felt a little odd. I expected her to be an experienced woman but she did actually woo Swanny which made a nice twist. There's nothing more amusing than reading about a big tough man flailing around when a woman takes control ! Lucky Swanny had no idea that all his dreams were about to come true!

Having said that I wasn't completely on board initially I would reassure readers that Ms Banks had a fantastic plot twist up her sleeve and the second half of this book really gathered pace. A nail biting end to this story that really allowed Swanny to step up and be the hero that readers always knew he was.

So if you like reading about alpha military males with rock hard bodies and a heart as wide as a mile then you need to get this book. Swanny may have given up on love but luckily this author hadn't given up on him! Everyone deserves a second chance and with the KGI behind him he finally gets his!

When Day Breaks

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Kraken King Parts IV, V & VI

Meljean Brook was raised in the middle of the woods, and hid under her blankets at night with fairy tales, comic books, and romances. She left the forest and went on a misguided tour through the world of accounting before focusing on her first loves, reading and writing–and she realized that monsters, superheroes, and happily-ever-afters are easily found between the covers, as well as under them, so she set out to make her own.

Meljean lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and daughter.

Keep up with Meljean online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

*FIND OUR REVIEW OF THE KRAKEN KING I, II & III - HERE...

The Kraken King IV

IRON SEAS Book #4.4

Buy from Amazon / B&N

The Kraken King has declared that Zenobia Fox is under his protection—and with her identity revealed, she needs that protection more than ever. But it comes with a price when Ariq demands that Zenobia reveal her secrets in return.

Ariq wants nothing more than for Zenobia to trust him, and he knows exactly which sensual tricks will breach her defenses. But although she urgently desires the powerful governor, Zenobia isn’t a woman who will be easily won with a few passionate kisses.

When his ambush goes awry, Ariq discovers just how deeply he can hurt her—but the real danger to Zenobia is one that he never expected…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

Well this is the fourth instalment of The Kraken King and I think the title says it all! Zenobia Fox may be close to realising the end of her mission -which is getting her friend safely to Red City but her life is never uneventful. Having survived a failed kidnapping attempt thanks to Ariq ,Zenobia is well aware that her true identity has been revealed. Ariq has offered her his protection but Zenobia has yet to realise just how much he's truly offering. Just because they have reached Red City does not mean the journey is over though as Zenobias trials are only just beginning and this time she's not alone.

Wow, it's hard to review this without spoilers and it would be a crying shame to ruin it for readers so discretion is vital here. This series has been an amazing find full of twists and turns. Zenobia is such a plucky girl but she's not one to trust easily and I fear that when she gives her heart it's going to be a monumental thing. She's been sheltered in many ways but this is a woman who wishes to be emancipated and take full control of her own life and destiny. Ariq, oo lets just take a pause and try to get my feelings for that guy under control! He's so much more than he seemed initially. Born into a family that can and does hurt each other with no fear of consequences he has learned to rely solely on himself and yet he's such a loyal man. Ariq may have qualms about Zenobias secrets and true agenda but he won't let a little thing like fear stand in his way. He's a man prepared to fight for what he wants and it's clear that what he really wants is Zenobia!

Ms Brooks is a cruel woman! This is left as possibly the most infuriating cliffhanger that I have ever come across ! The only redeeming feature as far as I can see is that the next instalment is scheduled to be released soon but luckily if you prefer to read an entire story at your leisure a complete and full length edition of this story is expected later this year.

This wasn't my favourite episode as I really do enjoy all the exciting world building that this author excels at but here we were treated to more intimate moments as Zenobias barriers start to fall. The last couple of pages just blew me away and believe me if swooning was my type of thing then yep most definitely I'd would do that for Ariq! It's a wonderful ride the author is taking the readers on with intricate settings, political intrigue , fantastical creatures , strong butt kicking characters and of course heart stopping romance.

The Kraken King Part V

IRON SEAS Book #4.5

RELEASE DATE 5/13/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

With their lives and the fate of an empire at stake, Ariq is forced to leave Zenobia behind. Held captive by their enemies, Zenobia can only pray that Ariq keeps his promise to come for her—until a terrible loss prods her to action.

Ariq has no intention of handing over the Skybreaker to the two men responsible for the marauders’ attacks against Krakentown—but without a ransom to give them, Ariq must risk everything to rescue Zenobia and stop the swarming forces bent on destruction…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
Episode five in this adventure that has this reader absolutely gripped! This stunning tale blends a steampunk world with heart stopping romance and it's a simply fantastic ride! Do not read this without the previous parts as you would be missing out on an awesome journey. Sit back and allow this author to whisk us away to a fantastical land filled with daredevil escapades and monstrous events that will leave the reader breathless .

Zenobia has been separated from Ariq but not before he vowed his heart and soul to her. She's not really sure she can trust his feelings but one thing she does believe is he's a man of honour and if it's possible to rescue her he will. Ariq has no such doubts and is a wily type who will not go quietly. He knows the whereabouts of a war machine the likes of which the world has yet to see but refuses to stand by and quietly watch the world go to blazes. Zenobias very safety is in Ariqs hands but he's a man with a plan and woe betide any who get in his way!I am loving this series and so wish I'd discovered this author sooner. The world building is fantastic and if honest I don't have enough superlatives to describe just how vibrant it truly is. This particular part is almost in two halves as we have initially the escape plans of both Ariq and Zenobia to follow and then we are treated to a very passionate encounter! Zenobia may not be fully convinced of Ariqs true feelings and intentions but believe me when I say that he's a very persuasive man!

Things are certainly heating up for our intrepid hero and heroine but Zenobias adventure is far from over. The question of evading recapture is playing heavily on their minds but equally what would happen if they succeed is never far from their thoughts. Will Zenobia take her chances and stay with Ariq or return to her brother and the saner world she's used to? Zenobia feels that she's lost so much but sometimes when all is gone the only thing left is hope!

The Kraken King Part VI

IRON SEAS Book #4.6

RELEASE DATE 5/20/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Reunited, Ariq and Zenobia must journey over the red wall and make a desperate appeal to the one woman with enough power to halt the marauders’ plans—the Empress of Nippon.

But even the Kraken King cannot demand the attentions of an empress. Masked and quarantined, Ariq and Zenobia are forced to bide their time. Despite the fact that they are as physically close as two people can be, Zenobia is trying to keep the man she can’t help but love at a distance, terrified she’ll be hurt again. And all the while, the mysteries of the Living City grow around them…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review


Episode six in this amazing story which although steampunk will appeal to all lovers of a good story. Just two more episodes to come and then our adventurous heroine Zenobia's story will be told. Although primarily a tale full of mayhem and amazing things in this instalment the author ramps up the steam ! Prepare to sit back and vibrate with need for more as Ms Brook seems determined to drive her readers wild.


Zenobia and Ariq seem to have finally reached an understanding and realise that they both ultimately want the same thing. Ariq still fears that Zenobia will leave him but slowly and surely his battle to win her is approaching success. Ariq must travel over the wall if he's to prevent the forces of Nippon from destroying his home but leaving Zenobia behind is something he's not prepared to do. So much manipulation and intruigue has surrounded the couple and now they prepare to take the ultimate step into what's probably the most inhospitable place on earth. The Empress has eyes everywhere and Ariq has many enemies who will stop at nothing in order to learn his secrets. If war is to be prevented Ariq and Zenobia must trust in each other as there's no one else who can be trusted in Nippon!


I found this instalment to be over far too quick! It's not the most action packed episode but it brought characters back into play. It's great to have the bodyguards, feisty Mara and self contained Cooper back as although they are supporting characters I've loved their interactions and reading about Maras chiding's of Zenobia is always such a hoot! Poor Ariq seems to be in a hopeless place as so many of those he needs to connect with will cling to what feels safe and I'm not quite sure how this problem can be resolved. There are many who would happily sit back and see him fail but he won't be deterred. Our favourite couple have come too far to just give up now and danger may be all around but there's light as they finally (finally!) truly explore their own relationship. Prepare to be moved as Zenobia fully experiences what it is to be loved by a man such as Ariq!


So almost two things happening here. Ariq is running out of time whilst trying to stop a huge chunk of Austrailia from being blown up and also the intrepid couple take their relationship and ramp it up a huge notch! If you read for the romance then you will not be disappointed and if you read for the plot and action then it's certainly all posed now to blow our minds! I'm loving this and can't wait for more and heartily recommend this authors work.

The Kraken King IV, V & VI