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Love at Stake #15
How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying)
From New York Times bestselling author Kerrelyn Sparks comes the next adventure in the Love at Stake series, featuring a Master vampire and his love affair with a woman of many secrets . . .
Vampire Zoltan Czakvar is on the hunt for the truth about his father's death. He's been searching for a very long time—since 1241, in fact. And he is not about to give up, even when he's attacked by a woman with striking blue eyes and a hell of a right hook!
Neona is also on the hunt. She's looking for a mate, and she thinks muscled Zoltan will work just fine. After all, men are good for only one thing. Soon, though, she realizes there's more to this handsome vampire than just sexual prowess. But she's keeping a secret from Zoltan, something so big that it will rock the vampire world.
Can their newfound love survive . . . even if their passion means the destruction of her world?
Vampire Zoltan Czakvar is on the hunt for the truth about his father's death. He's been searching for a very long time—since 1241, in fact. And he is not about to give up, even when he's attacked by a woman with striking blue eyes and a hell of a right hook!
Neona is also on the hunt. She's looking for a mate, and she thinks muscled Zoltan will work just fine. After all, men are good for only one thing. Soon, though, she realizes there's more to this handsome vampire than just sexual prowess. But she's keeping a secret from Zoltan, something so big that it will rock the vampire world.
Can their newfound love survive . . . even if their passion means the destruction of her world?
374 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 29, 2014
169 people are currently reading
3691 people want to read
About the author
Kerrelyn Sparks
40 books5,773 followersKerrelyn Sparks apparently has issues with reality. After writing more than a dozen books about vampires, she has now completely gone off the deep end and wound up on another planet. But how thrilling that she can share this magical new world with her readers! Although she is best known (so far) for the Love at Stake series, which has hit as high as number 5 on the New York Times list and 22 on the USA Today list, she hopes her readers will love The Embraced as much as they did her merry band of vamps and shifters. To learn more about her paranormal, historical, and upcoming out-of-this-world fantasy romances, please visit Kerrelyn on Facebook, Twitter, or her website at www.kerrelynsparks.com.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
March 26, 2014
How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying is another fun, exciting and sexy addition to the Love at Stake series.
Zoltan Czakvar has spent years trying to find his father's murderer. When a spy is saved by a secretive group in China, he also returns with the biggest clue to Zoltan's father's death...an arrow that matches the one the killed his father. Zoltan breaks from his duty and starts to search the far east for his revenge. What he finds will shock him and change his life forever.
Neona is a warrior woman, hidden in a fabled city. She and her fellow warriors are in search of men to help them continue their lineage. With an inner hatred taught from birth, it is difficult to overcome that mistrust. When Neona runs into Zoltan passions fly. But long ago events will scar their chances at happiness.
There is even more at stake then the hidden village, the secret they have protected for centuries can never fall into the wrong hands. With the evil vampires coming every closer, their time is running out. Will Zoltan be able to convince Neona and her family to trust men before its too late.
I appreciated Zoltan carefully orchestrating himself into Neoma's life, searching for answers but also to woo her, realizing she is his mate. He takes a gentle approach and shows her the respect she deserves in the warrior she has honed over the centuries. Not diminishing Neoma's abilities but building her up and treating her as his equal.
Sparks once again hooked and reeled me right into this newest installment in Love At Stake series. Although there was still that hint of humor Spark carries through her characters, this story was more serious. Ingrained hatred and scars from the past have effected these characters, creating a more sobering tone.
I utterly enjoyed How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying). Sparks brings in many of our favorite characters from the past and ties them into this story. What an unexpected surprise for our shape shifter friends... WOW, I can't wait to see what happens with our Scottish vampires now. Leaving us with so many new directions to ponder, Sparks always keeps us wanting more.
I received this ARC copy of How to Seduce a Vampire - Without Really Trying from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 20, 2014.
Written by: Kerrelyn Sparks
Series: Love at Stake
Sequence in Series: Book 15
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
ISBN-10: 0062107763
ISBN-13: 978-0062107763
Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance > Paranormal >
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Zoltan Czakvar has spent years trying to find his father's murderer. When a spy is saved by a secretive group in China, he also returns with the biggest clue to Zoltan's father's death...an arrow that matches the one the killed his father. Zoltan breaks from his duty and starts to search the far east for his revenge. What he finds will shock him and change his life forever.
Neona is a warrior woman, hidden in a fabled city. She and her fellow warriors are in search of men to help them continue their lineage. With an inner hatred taught from birth, it is difficult to overcome that mistrust. When Neona runs into Zoltan passions fly. But long ago events will scar their chances at happiness.
There is even more at stake then the hidden village, the secret they have protected for centuries can never fall into the wrong hands. With the evil vampires coming every closer, their time is running out. Will Zoltan be able to convince Neona and her family to trust men before its too late.
I appreciated Zoltan carefully orchestrating himself into Neoma's life, searching for answers but also to woo her, realizing she is his mate. He takes a gentle approach and shows her the respect she deserves in the warrior she has honed over the centuries. Not diminishing Neoma's abilities but building her up and treating her as his equal.
Sparks once again hooked and reeled me right into this newest installment in Love At Stake series. Although there was still that hint of humor Spark carries through her characters, this story was more serious. Ingrained hatred and scars from the past have effected these characters, creating a more sobering tone.
I utterly enjoyed How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying). Sparks brings in many of our favorite characters from the past and ties them into this story. What an unexpected surprise for our shape shifter friends... WOW, I can't wait to see what happens with our Scottish vampires now. Leaving us with so many new directions to ponder, Sparks always keeps us wanting more.
I received this ARC copy of How to Seduce a Vampire - Without Really Trying from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 20, 2014.
Written by: Kerrelyn Sparks
Series: Love at Stake
Sequence in Series: Book 15
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
ISBN-10: 0062107763
ISBN-13: 978-0062107763
Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance > Paranormal >
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
June 14, 2015
Another fun addition to the series with a few new characters and creatures added to the family. Lovely romance, sweet and tender with the expected HEA. I am so sad that there is only one more book in the series.
October 6, 2017
How To Seduce A Vampire de Kerrelyn Sparks fue una novela mucho mas divertida de lo que pense.
Los primeros capitulos me resultaron un poco lentos, me costo engancharme con la historia ( por eso tarde tanto en terminarlo ) pero cuando lo hice ya no pude soltarlo hasta que llegue a el final.
Esta lectura fue graciosa, agradable de leer y sencilla, la relacion de Zoltan y Neona me parecio un poco extraña pero como no serlo si esta saga se caracteriza precisamente por eso, por ser hilarante y un poco absurda ( pero de una buena forma ).
En conclusion, aunque al principio no estaba muy convencida, luego me lo pase como una niña pequeña con este libro, me hizo reir mucho.
3 Estrellas!
June 16, 2014
I REALLY hope that Kerrelyn Sparks will make Zoltan a real possesive asshole. Bec. I love possesive assholes characters. They're so much fun, interesting and big-hearted in the end when they find love. :D
And I'd really like for the female to be smart-ass, witty, brave and strong. real admirable traits in any character. :)
I want lots of possessiveness in this book.
Looking forward to it.
And I'd really like for the female to be smart-ass, witty, brave and strong. real admirable traits in any character. :)
I want lots of possessiveness in this book.
Looking forward to it.
July 19, 2017
Irgendwie hat die Reihe ihren Reiz verloren...wie Black Dagger :(
Es tauchen immer mehr Fantasy-Wesen auf und viele der Charakteren der ersten Stunde bekommen keine Aufmerksamkeit mehr. Dabei waren die mir am liebsten.
Ich denke, damit hat sich auch diese Reihe für mich erledigt.
Es tauchen immer mehr Fantasy-Wesen auf und viele der Charakteren der ersten Stunde bekommen keine Aufmerksamkeit mehr. Dabei waren die mir am liebsten.
Ich denke, damit hat sich auch diese Reihe für mich erledigt.
April 29, 2014
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Kerrelyn Sparks absolutely amazes me. Who would think, after all the books in this series, she would be able to come up with a new and exciting story to tell. Zoltan and Neona’s story is amazing and the total opposite from other Love At Stake Series books. A new setting, new storyline … but a lot of our favorites come to visit.
Zoltan and Neona had me smiling throughout the story. An Amazon woman who thinks that men are good for nothing but reproduction and a vampire searching for answers and getting way more than he bargained for. When they finally realize who the other one is – why the other is familiar, they know that fate was playing a hand in getting them together. And maybe, someone from beyond the grave as well.
As the story unfolds and we learn about Zoltan and Neona, their pasts, their secrets and the reason why they are like they are, we also learn of their fears and hopes for the future. We watch them go through some decisions that affect not only themselves, but the people around them. We deal with their grief and their happiness … their hates and their loves. We also learn that Zoltan is a very determined man who keeps his promises.
I was enthralled from the first minute that I opened this book. Especially when I realized that this was going to be a whole different take on the vampire world that was built around the Draganesti’s but with the same humor and love that we have come to expect. I was shocked with the twists and turns and little surprises that Ms. Sparks throws at us. I sat there with my mouth open when I got to the end of the story and, if I were a cartoon character with a bubble over my head, it was say “REALLY!” Yes, I was very surprised with what she did. Surprised, shocked, awed and a little scared that she is starting to end the series and this is the first step.
If you have followed this series as I have, you too will have jaw-dropping moments throughout the book with what she does in How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying). And, with no spoiler, it’s hard to tell you or even hint at what the surprise is in the end. The Draganesti’s and the other vampire’s that we have come to know and love, are not as prominent in this book but our wonderful, loving, big teddy bear Howard is. (I love that big bear). And, a few new people are introduced as well. But, even though this book is different from the rest, nothing really has changed … Kerrelyn Sparks again brings us a charming, sexy, book that combines humor, great characters, a little suspense and lots of love.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Kerrelyn Sparks absolutely amazes me. Who would think, after all the books in this series, she would be able to come up with a new and exciting story to tell. Zoltan and Neona’s story is amazing and the total opposite from other Love At Stake Series books. A new setting, new storyline … but a lot of our favorites come to visit.
Zoltan and Neona had me smiling throughout the story. An Amazon woman who thinks that men are good for nothing but reproduction and a vampire searching for answers and getting way more than he bargained for. When they finally realize who the other one is – why the other is familiar, they know that fate was playing a hand in getting them together. And maybe, someone from beyond the grave as well.
As the story unfolds and we learn about Zoltan and Neona, their pasts, their secrets and the reason why they are like they are, we also learn of their fears and hopes for the future. We watch them go through some decisions that affect not only themselves, but the people around them. We deal with their grief and their happiness … their hates and their loves. We also learn that Zoltan is a very determined man who keeps his promises.
I was enthralled from the first minute that I opened this book. Especially when I realized that this was going to be a whole different take on the vampire world that was built around the Draganesti’s but with the same humor and love that we have come to expect. I was shocked with the twists and turns and little surprises that Ms. Sparks throws at us. I sat there with my mouth open when I got to the end of the story and, if I were a cartoon character with a bubble over my head, it was say “REALLY!” Yes, I was very surprised with what she did. Surprised, shocked, awed and a little scared that she is starting to end the series and this is the first step.
If you have followed this series as I have, you too will have jaw-dropping moments throughout the book with what she does in How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying). And, with no spoiler, it’s hard to tell you or even hint at what the surprise is in the end. The Draganesti’s and the other vampire’s that we have come to know and love, are not as prominent in this book but our wonderful, loving, big teddy bear Howard is. (I love that big bear). And, a few new people are introduced as well. But, even though this book is different from the rest, nothing really has changed … Kerrelyn Sparks again brings us a charming, sexy, book that combines humor, great characters, a little suspense and lots of love.
May 12, 2014
I’ve been a fan of the Love at Stake series for a while now. I’ve loved most of the novels. There have been a few that were completely forgettable, but this wasn’t one of them. I thought Kerrelyn Sparks did an excellent job with this story.
What I loved most was how unique it was. A lot of unexpected things happen in this novel, and I enjoyed that she could still surprise me. I also liked the characters. The back stories were excellent, and tied in well to the story line. The romance develops fast, but you can’t go into a Love at Stake book without knowing it’s an insta-love story. They all are.
I know I’ve given this book a 5 star rating, but I do need to lodge a complaint. I listened to this book in the audio version. I’ve read and listened to all of the others as well, and I need to say the narration is so inconsistent with this series that I find it annoying. I don’t know why they chose to use a different narrator for each book, but if you are going to do that, please PLEASE make sure the narrator knows the characters.
Emma is English. From England English. With a British accent English. So why, oh why, did the narrator decide to give her a Southern Accent? Does no one check after the book is recorded, or give any sort of direction to the narrator? You can’t really blame the narrator because no where in this novel does the author reiterate the fact that Emma is British. But trust me, the fans know, and hearing a Southern accent on a British character is so annoying it pulled me right out of the story. I didn’t deduct anything from my rating because the narration has no bearing on the novel itself. I will just issue a warning to the fans, don’t listen to the audiobook if you think this will bother you.
May 3, 2015
Great love story between vampire Zoltan and a very old woman Neona. Not sure how to call her.
He wants to know who killed his father more than 800 years ago and finds her and her sisterhood protecting a valley. The secret of this valley was a surprise I really liked. I have a weak spot for dragons, so also for dragon shapeshifters.
I like the way the vampires help the sisterhood against the bad vampires.
Not sure about the ending of the book, hope everything will be okay in the next book with the story line which still continues. I also curious about what is going to happen to Zoltan now he has drunk from the water which gives everlasting life.
Great love story with lovely moments between Zoltan and Neona.
Complete it with serious action against the bad guys and you have a very good read.
I couldn't stop reading.
He wants to know who killed his father more than 800 years ago and finds her and her sisterhood protecting a valley. The secret of this valley was a surprise I really liked. I have a weak spot for dragons, so also for dragon shapeshifters.
I like the way the vampires help the sisterhood against the bad vampires.
Not sure about the ending of the book, hope everything will be okay in the next book with the story line which still continues. I also curious about what is going to happen to Zoltan now he has drunk from the water which gives everlasting life.
Great love story with lovely moments between Zoltan and Neona.
Complete it with serious action against the bad guys and you have a very good read.
I couldn't stop reading.
April 29, 2014
This series has never disappointed me and definitely didn't start with this one!! Absolutely love this series! I hope it never ends!
December 14, 2020
Hmm I liked it but I didn’t love it.
I don’t understand why the Mother would make them give up their sons. It just didn’t make sense to me. The rest of it I get protecting the dragons and all that I get it. Even the water and him spiking his blood. I figured he would either become mortal again or something similar it just seemed like that would be the case.
The demon coming back was no surprise either.
Neona for someone so sheltered really did turn around, I am glad she finally stood up to her mother.
Excited to see how the next book is going to tie in.
I really enjoyed the narration for this one.
I don’t understand why the Mother would make them give up their sons. It just didn’t make sense to me. The rest of it I get protecting the dragons and all that I get it. Even the water and him spiking his blood. I figured he would either become mortal again or something similar it just seemed like that would be the case.
The demon coming back was no surprise either.
Neona for someone so sheltered really did turn around, I am glad she finally stood up to her mother.
Excited to see how the next book is going to tie in.
I really enjoyed the narration for this one.
June 5, 2019
DID he become human or not. the ending is unclear
August 11, 2014
I read this because I've read every single Kerrelyn Sparks book ever produced, and also because I own the rest of the series and will continue reading said series no matter the direction they're going.
And going they are.
This book isn't bad, but it isn't one of her best. The storyline is believable enough, as is the returning characters, but the reality is beginning to dwindle. Yeah, I know you're saying, "But Kitty, it's about vampires (among other stuff). How realistic can it get?" It can do a whole lot better, believe me.
I think what gets me more is that this story is cheesy romance. I wasn't too sure it would be so until I got to a scene where the heroine is telling the hero about her backstory, in which the hero actually throws a fist in the air and cheers on the heroine's overcoming character. I reread that part at least a dozen times before I realized I hadn't imagined it. Kerrelyn Sparks actually has her character getting whole-heartily enthralled in some story, completely off-character from what I've always imagined her alpha males portraying. It was the icing on the cake for just how cheesy this romance series has become.
Needless to say, reading this book has inspired me to write more to my own cynical stories, in which a perfect world is a dream and reality is our true hell.
The writing wasn't bad, but it wasn't her best. In fact, I swear her knack for skilled writing has been thrown out the window to be replaced by time. The sooner she can reach deadline, the quicker her books hit the shelves for her readers. To do so, she skimps out on good, clear description and leaves nearly EVERYTHING up to the reader. It's not bad, and makes for a quick read, but there are times I want the image painted out for me. This book does not have that.
Still, don't skip this book if you're reading her series. It's the second to last book of the set (that she's declared so far). Just keep in mind that it's not going to be completely real-world screwy, and better for a "feel-good" fluff-type mood.
And going they are.
This book isn't bad, but it isn't one of her best. The storyline is believable enough, as is the returning characters, but the reality is beginning to dwindle. Yeah, I know you're saying, "But Kitty, it's about vampires (among other stuff). How realistic can it get?" It can do a whole lot better, believe me.
I think what gets me more is that this story is cheesy romance. I wasn't too sure it would be so until I got to a scene where the heroine is telling the hero about her backstory, in which the hero actually throws a fist in the air and cheers on the heroine's overcoming character. I reread that part at least a dozen times before I realized I hadn't imagined it. Kerrelyn Sparks actually has her character getting whole-heartily enthralled in some story, completely off-character from what I've always imagined her alpha males portraying. It was the icing on the cake for just how cheesy this romance series has become.
Needless to say, reading this book has inspired me to write more to my own cynical stories, in which a perfect world is a dream and reality is our true hell.
The writing wasn't bad, but it wasn't her best. In fact, I swear her knack for skilled writing has been thrown out the window to be replaced by time. The sooner she can reach deadline, the quicker her books hit the shelves for her readers. To do so, she skimps out on good, clear description and leaves nearly EVERYTHING up to the reader. It's not bad, and makes for a quick read, but there are times I want the image painted out for me. This book does not have that.
Still, don't skip this book if you're reading her series. It's the second to last book of the set (that she's declared so far). Just keep in mind that it's not going to be completely real-world screwy, and better for a "feel-good" fluff-type mood.
April 30, 2014
Who doesn’t love a fun, entertaining paranormal romance that has interesting characters (one of them is a vampire and one is a warrior from a fabled city) and a plot that keeps you hooked until the very end? Thankfully I was able to get my hands on a copy and once I started reading I didn’t set it down until it was over.
There is just so much I enjoyed about this story. The plot was interesting and a bit more serious than I have found her previous books to be. Don’t let that deter you; there were still touches of humor in there. I really like Neone and I think she is the perfect woman for Zoltan. Their romance was perfect and just how I love it.
How to Seduce a Vampire Without Really Trying is the 15th book in the Love at Stake series. Yes I did say #15 and yes I have read all of them so far. I love this series and so looking forward to book #16 titled Crouching Tiger, Hidden Vampire due to be released at the end of December 2014. Now as for reading this book as a standalone – sure you can do that if the length of this series seems intimidating. I would recommend that if you love a good paranormal romance that has interesting characters and plots then start at the beginning of this series and work your way through it. You won’t regret it for a second!
There is just so much I enjoyed about this story. The plot was interesting and a bit more serious than I have found her previous books to be. Don’t let that deter you; there were still touches of humor in there. I really like Neone and I think she is the perfect woman for Zoltan. Their romance was perfect and just how I love it.
How to Seduce a Vampire Without Really Trying is the 15th book in the Love at Stake series. Yes I did say #15 and yes I have read all of them so far. I love this series and so looking forward to book #16 titled Crouching Tiger, Hidden Vampire due to be released at the end of December 2014. Now as for reading this book as a standalone – sure you can do that if the length of this series seems intimidating. I would recommend that if you love a good paranormal romance that has interesting characters and plots then start at the beginning of this series and work your way through it. You won’t regret it for a second!
April 29, 2014
Kerrelyn Sparks has done it again, she enriched her world and expanded it beautifully all while giving us a fantastic love story.
I really loved Zoltan, he’s a great character and the way he won’t give up on Neona, not matter the consequences, I loved that about him. He works to earn her trust and I enjoyed the fun way he does it.
Neona is a strong, confident and beautiful woman that I adored, she doesn’t just roll over for Zoltan, she makes him work for it. I love a heroine who has a mind of her own.
We got to see some of the past Love at Stake books, but never fear, if you haven’t read the past fourteen books in the series, you can still enjoy Zoltan and Neona’s story. I look forward to where this series will go in the future. I think this installment breathed some fresh air into the series.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated for my review.
I really loved Zoltan, he’s a great character and the way he won’t give up on Neona, not matter the consequences, I loved that about him. He works to earn her trust and I enjoyed the fun way he does it.
Neona is a strong, confident and beautiful woman that I adored, she doesn’t just roll over for Zoltan, she makes him work for it. I love a heroine who has a mind of her own.
We got to see some of the past Love at Stake books, but never fear, if you haven’t read the past fourteen books in the series, you can still enjoy Zoltan and Neona’s story. I look forward to where this series will go in the future. I think this installment breathed some fresh air into the series.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated for my review.
May 9, 2014
I could take or leave this book ...and that is really a problem isn't it? When I don't really care if I finish a book or not, something must be wrong.
I know that this author has many followers and I used to adore her books. However, I have found lately that they just didn't fill my needs as they once did. I thought I would give this author another try...and I found that the characters were one dimensional - focused on sex pretty much 75% of the time instead of what is happening around them, the story itself was interesting as was the introduction of another shifter group, but not enough to sustain me.
I agree with another reviewer - this was not one of her best books.
I does, nevertheless fill a niche -it will be a great beach or vacation read, especially for fans.
ARC supplied by publisher for reviewing purposes
I know that this author has many followers and I used to adore her books. However, I have found lately that they just didn't fill my needs as they once did. I thought I would give this author another try...and I found that the characters were one dimensional - focused on sex pretty much 75% of the time instead of what is happening around them, the story itself was interesting as was the introduction of another shifter group, but not enough to sustain me.
I agree with another reviewer - this was not one of her best books.
I does, nevertheless fill a niche -it will be a great beach or vacation read, especially for fans.
ARC supplied by publisher for reviewing purposes
January 12, 2017
I think I liked the cover more than I did the story! ;D
Zoltan's quest to avenge his father's death leads us on a merry (and sometimes, NOT so merry) chase to foreign lands with many interesting characters! Neona has a quest of her own... get with child and walk away from the donor... yeah, I didn't see that plan working either with Zoltan as the donor! *snort* LOL!!!
There were many things that stood in the way of these two "love birds" getting together... but, as we all know... Zoltan never quits until a job is done!
Looking forward to jumping right into Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire... Russell has got to one of my favorite "mysterious" characters of this series! Let's see what Ms. Sparks has "planned" for him! ;D
Zoltan's quest to avenge his father's death leads us on a merry (and sometimes, NOT so merry) chase to foreign lands with many interesting characters! Neona has a quest of her own... get with child and walk away from the donor... yeah, I didn't see that plan working either with Zoltan as the donor! *snort* LOL!!!
There were many things that stood in the way of these two "love birds" getting together... but, as we all know... Zoltan never quits until a job is done!
Looking forward to jumping right into Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire... Russell has got to one of my favorite "mysterious" characters of this series! Let's see what Ms. Sparks has "planned" for him! ;D
May 9, 2014
I'm starting to wonder if I have a problem or the books are starting to get from bad to worse?
It took so long to finish this one, it was boring. The action was something horrible, the characters the same...it felt like every little detail was described, she walked 2 steps to the right and then one to the left to get to the other side, she went to the bathroom and after she flushed, she washed her hands/or not, and so on.
Spoilers
The finale was WTF? How can you find out that you are pregnant after one week (that's how long they had together)?
I just hated it, and I'm asking myself, again, if I have a problem or the books are just that bad.
It took so long to finish this one, it was boring. The action was something horrible, the characters the same...it felt like every little detail was described, she walked 2 steps to the right and then one to the left to get to the other side, she went to the bathroom and after she flushed, she washed her hands/or not, and so on.
Spoilers
The finale was WTF? How can you find out that you are pregnant after one week (that's how long they had together)?
I just hated it, and I'm asking myself, again, if I have a problem or the books are just that bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2016
Love the entrance of these new women. Were-dragons are always a plus lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2018
Really cool throwing in the secret group of female warriors protecting baby dragon shifters! I loved the characters and how the story wrapped up some things that had been left unresolved in previous books.
I actually have no complaints which is both weird and wonderful. Loved the heroine loved the hero. The story was great! The little dragon shifter's still missing by the end but I do know they find him in the next book so I won't whine about it.
I actually have no complaints which is both weird and wonderful. Loved the heroine loved the hero. The story was great! The little dragon shifter's still missing by the end but I do know they find him in the next book so I won't whine about it.
May 6, 2017
Another fun entry in the Love at Stake series. I wish I would have read this one before Crouching Tiger because it would have made a little more sense. Anyway, I haven't been reading these in order at all. I only have a couple more books to go to be finished with the series and I will be sad to see it end. I love the humor and the romance in these books.
May 4, 2022
This is a series I started reading about 9 years ago and decided to finally finish off. They're not the best quality romance, but I do think there is a fun quality to them. Beyond the actual romance part, there is a series long arc of this vampire war that is starting to come to a head. Like I said, not a lot of substance here but it's an entertaining read.
April 29, 2014
After 800 years of searching, vampire Zoltan Czakvar finally has a solid lead to who killed his father. Never did he expect his journey would take him to a Himalayan valley where a group of warrior women have secrets they have spent thousands of years protecting. Neona has been told men are good for one reason: making warriors to protect Beyul-La. Neona doesn’t agree 100% with the policy but when a handsome man finds his way into their valley, she’s ready to contribute to the population growth. Zoltan’s arrival to her hidden home signals big changes, some long overdue and some that will mean the end of life as she knows it.
Zolton is a wealthy Coven Master who doesn’t need to hide his existence from the people he looks after in his Transylvania town. Neona lives (mostly) cut off from the world and all modern conveniences to live in a very remote valley. Rarely communicating with outsiders, Neona is only allowed to have a male for the purpose of having daughters. They meet after Zoltan follows the origins of an arrow used to kill his father but that search becomes second to wooing Neona after they first meet (when she knocks him out cold) and convincing her that he is worthy of her trust and love.
Adorable. So, so adorably sweet. And hot. Yes, adorably sweet and hot is how I describe Zoltan and Neona. Adorably sweet because Zoltan brings cute gifts like a Hello Kitty watch (don’t scoff, Neona loves it!) and romance novels (his reaction to finding out there are vampire romances cracked me up), and arranges a very complicated land deal to win Neona over and proves he can be counted on at every turn. Neona doesn’t have gifts to give but she shows she is interested by defying her mother (and queen) for Zoltan and dares to think of him as more than a potential sperm donor. For a tribe that resembles Amazons, that’s saying a lot. They’re hot because Neona demands 10 orgasms in order for Zoltan to prove himself and well, Zoltan enthusiastically accepts the challenge. Like I said, H-O-T.
Zoltan and his companions are still chasing after the evil vampire Master Han to stop him and his demonly enhanced soldiers. I wasn’t all that into this chase and there is no real movement in this branch of the story until the end. Neona’s people and land become a target but even then I felt meh about it. What revitalized my love for this series, which was dwindling after 14 books, are the characters. Aside from Neona and Zoltan, there are the few remaining women of Neona’s not-so-man-hating tribe. Each with their own personalities and reactions to what Zoltan tells them about men and the outside world that contradicts what the stick in the mud queen has taught them. The beautiful landscape, snarky furry inhabitants, and pretty cool new shifter species of Beyul-La add a much needed breath of fresh air to the series.
I’m not sure if it was the mood I was in while reading but I felt as if the writing is better in this book. Or perhaps it felt that way due to how effortlessly the author got me to fall in love with Zoltan and Neona. Zoltan and Neona’s relationship moves quickly yet it’s easy to feel their building passion and they make perfect sense from the get go. Admittedly, parts of the story are easy to predict yet that diminishes nothing and I think fans of this series will be extra happy with this latest release.
- Stephanie
Zolton is a wealthy Coven Master who doesn’t need to hide his existence from the people he looks after in his Transylvania town. Neona lives (mostly) cut off from the world and all modern conveniences to live in a very remote valley. Rarely communicating with outsiders, Neona is only allowed to have a male for the purpose of having daughters. They meet after Zoltan follows the origins of an arrow used to kill his father but that search becomes second to wooing Neona after they first meet (when she knocks him out cold) and convincing her that he is worthy of her trust and love.
Adorable. So, so adorably sweet. And hot. Yes, adorably sweet and hot is how I describe Zoltan and Neona. Adorably sweet because Zoltan brings cute gifts like a Hello Kitty watch (don’t scoff, Neona loves it!) and romance novels (his reaction to finding out there are vampire romances cracked me up), and arranges a very complicated land deal to win Neona over and proves he can be counted on at every turn. Neona doesn’t have gifts to give but she shows she is interested by defying her mother (and queen) for Zoltan and dares to think of him as more than a potential sperm donor. For a tribe that resembles Amazons, that’s saying a lot. They’re hot because Neona demands 10 orgasms in order for Zoltan to prove himself and well, Zoltan enthusiastically accepts the challenge. Like I said, H-O-T.
Zoltan and his companions are still chasing after the evil vampire Master Han to stop him and his demonly enhanced soldiers. I wasn’t all that into this chase and there is no real movement in this branch of the story until the end. Neona’s people and land become a target but even then I felt meh about it. What revitalized my love for this series, which was dwindling after 14 books, are the characters. Aside from Neona and Zoltan, there are the few remaining women of Neona’s not-so-man-hating tribe. Each with their own personalities and reactions to what Zoltan tells them about men and the outside world that contradicts what the stick in the mud queen has taught them. The beautiful landscape, snarky furry inhabitants, and pretty cool new shifter species of Beyul-La add a much needed breath of fresh air to the series.
I’m not sure if it was the mood I was in while reading but I felt as if the writing is better in this book. Or perhaps it felt that way due to how effortlessly the author got me to fall in love with Zoltan and Neona. Zoltan and Neona’s relationship moves quickly yet it’s easy to feel their building passion and they make perfect sense from the get go. Admittedly, parts of the story are easy to predict yet that diminishes nothing and I think fans of this series will be extra happy with this latest release.
- Stephanie
February 12, 2015
I love this series, and will gladly read all installments until the end. That being said, this was not my favorite. I didn’t really connect with the characters and had no solid experience with Zoltan to hold my attention. The highlights of the book were the sexy scenes and the appearance from previous book characters (Howard, Emma, etc.).
Zoltan is a pretty old vampire who has tried his best to be good. He takes care of all those around him, but has always been looking for his father’s killer. Somehow Zoltan has been taking care of Russell’s blood and weapon needs since his disappearance (what?), and finds an arrow that matches one belonging to his father’s murderer. Immediately, Zoltan zooms off to try to track the owner down. This leads him right into a band of Amazonian women with oodles of secrets.
Neona has just lost her sister (in the same battle where Russell got the arrow). She’s hurting and questioning her strange way of life. When Zoltan suddenly shows up, she’s probably more susceptible to his charm than usual and this pair begins their unlikely alliance. He’s determined to win her heart and she’s determined to have his child. This story was filled with revelations (including a new species) and is steadily building to the big showdown with Master Han.
All of the action helped the latter half of the book, but there was a lot of information thrown at us in this one. We learn all about this Amazon way of life, Zoltan’s mother’s strange history, Zoltan’s childhood, and the tons of loose ends that are probably lurking around due to Nima’s stubbornness. This book sets the stage for later action and discovery, but took a little time to get into.
Zoltan is a pretty old vampire who has tried his best to be good. He takes care of all those around him, but has always been looking for his father’s killer. Somehow Zoltan has been taking care of Russell’s blood and weapon needs since his disappearance (what?), and finds an arrow that matches one belonging to his father’s murderer. Immediately, Zoltan zooms off to try to track the owner down. This leads him right into a band of Amazonian women with oodles of secrets.
Neona has just lost her sister (in the same battle where Russell got the arrow). She’s hurting and questioning her strange way of life. When Zoltan suddenly shows up, she’s probably more susceptible to his charm than usual and this pair begins their unlikely alliance. He’s determined to win her heart and she’s determined to have his child. This story was filled with revelations (including a new species) and is steadily building to the big showdown with Master Han.
All of the action helped the latter half of the book, but there was a lot of information thrown at us in this one. We learn all about this Amazon way of life, Zoltan’s mother’s strange history, Zoltan’s childhood, and the tons of loose ends that are probably lurking around due to Nima’s stubbornness. This book sets the stage for later action and discovery, but took a little time to get into.
April 2, 2018
These paranormal romance books are about a group of good vamps (and shifters) who protect the world from bad vampires.
Zoltan's been one of my favorites and I love how he can talk to animals! He's 600 years old and all these years he's been searching for the truth behind his father's death.
Neona is an Amazon type woman who lives in a secret valley in Tibet and believes men are good for only one thing, to give them daughters.
The banter between the two was great and I liked how they developed their own little sayings. The animals were also hilarious and one of the best parts of the book!
My only complaint was the timeline. She should have made it two years since Neona's sister died, not two weeks. Also, although the romance didn't feel too fast, she easily could've made it take five weeks for them to fall in love, instead of five days.
I'm sad that this is the second to last book! (How did 15 books go so fast?!) I've really liked these last few, Sparks has become an even better writer.
Zoltan's been one of my favorites and I love how he can talk to animals! He's 600 years old and all these years he's been searching for the truth behind his father's death.
Neona is an Amazon type woman who lives in a secret valley in Tibet and believes men are good for only one thing, to give them daughters.
The banter between the two was great and I liked how they developed their own little sayings. The animals were also hilarious and one of the best parts of the book!
My only complaint was the timeline. She should have made it two years since Neona's sister died, not two weeks. Also, although the romance didn't feel too fast, she easily could've made it take five weeks for them to fall in love, instead of five days.
I'm sad that this is the second to last book! (How did 15 books go so fast?!) I've really liked these last few, Sparks has become an even better writer.
May 1, 2014
A VERY DISAPPOINTING ENDING!!!
The story starts out great and I love all the new characters. Zoltan and Neona make a great couple. The romance even sizzle's. It's more sensual then the others in the series. Which is unusual for LAS couples.There are even some great twist and turns. I just knew up until the end that I was going to give How To Seduce A Vampire Without Really Trying 5 stars. BUT then Ms.Sparks does the very thing I hate in a vampire stories. I read Vampire and Shifter books because I like Vampires and Shifters. That's all I am going to say. The end also leaves you hanging. I Have always put the Love At Stakes books on Pre Order But Not anymore!! I have been a loyal Fan of the series since book 1 How To Marry a Millionaire Vampire was released. But now I am not sure I will continue. Oh Why Kerrelyn Sparks did you do it? You had enough of new option in this story without going that route!! Sad!!
The story starts out great and I love all the new characters. Zoltan and Neona make a great couple. The romance even sizzle's. It's more sensual then the others in the series. Which is unusual for LAS couples.There are even some great twist and turns. I just knew up until the end that I was going to give How To Seduce A Vampire Without Really Trying 5 stars. BUT then Ms.Sparks does the very thing I hate in a vampire stories. I read Vampire and Shifter books because I like Vampires and Shifters. That's all I am going to say. The end also leaves you hanging. I Have always put the Love At Stakes books on Pre Order But Not anymore!! I have been a loyal Fan of the series since book 1 How To Marry a Millionaire Vampire was released. But now I am not sure I will continue. Oh Why Kerrelyn Sparks did you do it? You had enough of new option in this story without going that route!! Sad!!
May 25, 2015
After searching for his father's killer for over 800 years, Vampire Zoltan Czakvar has found a clue that leads him to a lush valley in the Himalayas. There he finds a group of warrior women who would rather kill a man than trust him. Neona meets Zoltan thinks this man just may be her chance to have a child. She doesn't understand why men can't be trusted and is revolting against all the rules that govern the women. As Zoltan tries to convince the women that he can help them in their fight against Master Han, he realizes that the women are hiding a secret that could change the war.
This was not my favorite book in the series. In fact, I was bored and ended up skimming some parts of it. I thought the humor fell flat and the story felt like a repeat of previous plots. I was surprised by the big secret that the women were keeping, and hope that everything is resolved in the next and last book in the series. My rating: 2.5 Stars.
This was not my favorite book in the series. In fact, I was bored and ended up skimming some parts of it. I thought the humor fell flat and the story felt like a repeat of previous plots. I was surprised by the big secret that the women were keeping, and hope that everything is resolved in the next and last book in the series. My rating: 2.5 Stars.
June 23, 2014
I love this series and Kerrelyn Sparks' stories. I did not like this one much as the earlier ones in the series. I do miss the kilts.
I liked Zoltan. He was an alpha who deeply cared for his people. He allowed tours of his "vampire castle" in order to help the village's economy.
Neona was an interesting character who survived in her prison-like environment. She was a warrior who wanted family and love while protecting an age old secret.
I like the setting in China and the inclusion of the Chinese Tigers. As usual the supporting characters added much to the story and the series. I liked the inclusion of earlier characters although there was not enough of them.
What I didn't like was the lack of emotion between Zoltan and Neona. There was just no heat. I wanted hot and steamy with some laughter. I did not get it.
I liked Zoltan. He was an alpha who deeply cared for his people. He allowed tours of his "vampire castle" in order to help the village's economy.
Neona was an interesting character who survived in her prison-like environment. She was a warrior who wanted family and love while protecting an age old secret.
I like the setting in China and the inclusion of the Chinese Tigers. As usual the supporting characters added much to the story and the series. I liked the inclusion of earlier characters although there was not enough of them.
What I didn't like was the lack of emotion between Zoltan and Neona. There was just no heat. I wanted hot and steamy with some laughter. I did not get it.
July 20, 2016
DNF at 78%
I just lost interest. I just didn't want to go back and finish the book, so I'm dropping it.
Some random notes:
- This is the 15th book in a series. And I didn't read any previous books. There were some characters that obviously had their own books but I didn't feel too lost.
- I'm not super against "insta-love" but this was wayyyy too insta for even my taste. They've met a handful of times and they're already in love? Sorry, not buying it. I've read less insta-love in novellas.
- Everyone winces. I wince. You wince. She winces. He winces. They wince. We wince. It felt like somebody was wincing on every single page. It was too much.
Overall, the beginning was fairly enjoyable but I lost interest when it got to the climax. I was mainly interested in the romance, truth be told.
I just lost interest. I just didn't want to go back and finish the book, so I'm dropping it.
Some random notes:
- This is the 15th book in a series. And I didn't read any previous books. There were some characters that obviously had their own books but I didn't feel too lost.
- I'm not super against "insta-love" but this was wayyyy too insta for even my taste. They've met a handful of times and they're already in love? Sorry, not buying it. I've read less insta-love in novellas.
- Everyone winces. I wince. You wince. She winces. He winces. They wince. We wince. It felt like somebody was wincing on every single page. It was too much.
Overall, the beginning was fairly enjoyable but I lost interest when it got to the climax. I was mainly interested in the romance, truth be told.
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