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Purgatory #2
Marked by the Vampire
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Cynthia Eden invites readers to a dark paranormal world...
Vampires exist. So do werewolves. The creatures that you fear in the darkness? They're all real. And the baddest of the paranormals...those who love to hurt humans...they're sent to Purgatory, the only paranormal prison in the U.S.
His job is to stop the monsters.
Deadly forces are at work within Purgatory. The monsters are joining together--and their plans have to be stopped. FBI Agent Shane August, a very powerful vampire with a dark past, is sent into the prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary.
She wants to help the prisoners.
Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. What pushes some vampires over the edge? Why do some werewolves turn so savage? If she can understand the monsters, then Olivia thinks she can help them. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Olivia believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime.
Olivia doesn't realize that she's walking straight into hell.
To survive, they have to rely on each other.
When the prisoners break loose, there is only one person--one vampire--who can protect her, but as Olivia and Shane fight the enemies that surround them, a dark and dangerous passion stirs to life between the doctor and the vamp. Shane realizes that Olivia is a woman carrying secrets--powerful, sinful secrets. Secrets that a man would kill to possess.
And Olivia realizes that--sometimes--you can't control the beast inside of you. No matter how hard you try. Some passions can push you to the very limits of your control...and the growing lust that she feels for her vampire...it's sending her racing right into a deadly storm of desire.
Welcome to Purgatory...a place that's a real hell on earth...
MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is a sexy paranormal romance. It contains hot scenes, an alpha vampire, and a heroine who isn't afraid to fight monsters. Word 55,000. The first book in the Purgatory series (THE WOLF WITHIN) is also available. All of the books in the Purgatory series can be read as stand-alone titles.
Vampires exist. So do werewolves. The creatures that you fear in the darkness? They're all real. And the baddest of the paranormals...those who love to hurt humans...they're sent to Purgatory, the only paranormal prison in the U.S.
His job is to stop the monsters.
Deadly forces are at work within Purgatory. The monsters are joining together--and their plans have to be stopped. FBI Agent Shane August, a very powerful vampire with a dark past, is sent into the prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary.
She wants to help the prisoners.
Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. What pushes some vampires over the edge? Why do some werewolves turn so savage? If she can understand the monsters, then Olivia thinks she can help them. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Olivia believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime.
Olivia doesn't realize that she's walking straight into hell.
To survive, they have to rely on each other.
When the prisoners break loose, there is only one person--one vampire--who can protect her, but as Olivia and Shane fight the enemies that surround them, a dark and dangerous passion stirs to life between the doctor and the vamp. Shane realizes that Olivia is a woman carrying secrets--powerful, sinful secrets. Secrets that a man would kill to possess.
And Olivia realizes that--sometimes--you can't control the beast inside of you. No matter how hard you try. Some passions can push you to the very limits of your control...and the growing lust that she feels for her vampire...it's sending her racing right into a deadly storm of desire.
Welcome to Purgatory...a place that's a real hell on earth...
MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is a sexy paranormal romance. It contains hot scenes, an alpha vampire, and a heroine who isn't afraid to fight monsters. Word 55,000. The first book in the Purgatory series (THE WOLF WITHIN) is also available. All of the books in the Purgatory series can be read as stand-alone titles.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2014
82 people are currently reading
1269 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
302 books6,780 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
July 12, 2016
Lots of excellent reviews already written for this second installment of the Purgatory World series.
Once again loved the characters and the worldbuilding. It is an interesting paranormal read with an interesting twist of other paranormal besides werewolves and vampires. The romance is hot and steamy to go with the hot and steamy cover.
The only reason I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars is that as entertaining as it is, it is not anything new. Still a great read and I'll be moving on to Book 3.
Once again loved the characters and the worldbuilding. It is an interesting paranormal read with an interesting twist of other paranormal besides werewolves and vampires. The romance is hot and steamy to go with the hot and steamy cover.
The only reason I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars is that as entertaining as it is, it is not anything new. Still a great read and I'll be moving on to Book 3.
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October 22, 2016I couldn't finish this one. The storytelling feels choppy and characters behave in ways that don't make sense. It felt like they lurched from one scenario to another with little connection to what they were actually supposed to be doing.
The Heroine is supposed to be a criminal psychologist used to dealing with brutal killers, but she didn't seem to understand psychology at all or how to deal with the inmates in a therapy setting. She didn't know what she was doing. And she was scared of her own shadow.
There were also a few editing errors. A few examples: a character stating they said something when it was actually another character who made the statement, "ultraviolent" radiation instead of "ultraviolet", "he put his mouth on his wrist" instead of "her wrist".
It's too bad because I thought there was an interesting and unique premise here.
The Heroine is supposed to be a criminal psychologist used to dealing with brutal killers, but she didn't seem to understand psychology at all or how to deal with the inmates in a therapy setting. She didn't know what she was doing. And she was scared of her own shadow.
There were also a few editing errors. A few examples: a character stating they said something when it was actually another character who made the statement, "ultraviolent" radiation instead of "ultraviolet", "he put his mouth on his wrist" instead of "her wrist".
It's too bad because I thought there was an interesting and unique premise here.
June 9, 2016
4 - "Thought you'd be older." ... "Hoped you'd be uglier." Stars!
Marked by the Vampire is book two in Cynthia Eden’s Purgatory Series. I could gush for several paragraphs about this author’s awesomeness, but I don’t want to bore you.
”Better be careful,” ... “You don't know what waits in the darkness.”
I am not a huge PNR reader (although I seem to be ploughing through them lately), but when I see a Cynthia Eden book on Netgalley now, I don’t even read the synopsis before hitting the ‘request’ button. I don't need to know what the book is about to know that I will enjoy it; she is just that type of writer for me. I have a few others that I class as ‘no-brainers’ but if you asked me who my go-to author for romantic suspense is, Cynthia Eden is most likely to be the first name I would throw at you.
”Why do people think,” ... “That vampires are cold?”...
“Because the movies say we’re dead. The dead are cold. The dead don’t have hearts that beat” ... “They say we have no passion.”... “But our hearts beat. We breathe. We live. We need.”
Firstly, I would recommend that you read book one in the Purgatory series, The Wolf Within as although each of the books features around a different couple, there is an underlying story running through. Think of the F.B.I for paranormal disturbances if you will Shane is a Vampire who works with Eric Pate, in containing and removing threat to human life from Vampires, Werewolves and other non-human forms. If taken alive they are then sent to Purgatory Prison.
There are some serious issues with the running of Purgatory, what with the inmates killing each other, and management seemingly encouraging it, as well as a potential uprising and possible escape attempt. Shane is sent in undercover to try and find out what and who is the mastermind behind the unrest.
”You’re dead” ... “Undead is the correct term, jackass. Get it right.”
Unfortunately, Shane didn’t figure the inclusion of Dr. Olivia Maddox on the staff roster for the prison, and she brings out all sorts of over-protective feelings in him, feelings he hasn’t felt in decades...
”I won’t let anyone hurt you. Any who comes after you – human, vamp, werewolf – they’ll have to go through me first.”
Olivia is keeping a few secrets of her own, and once again Cynthia gives us another likeable and kick-ass heroine. I loved the verbal sparring between the two of them, as well as the scorching hot sexy-times.
I want to keep her with me forever.
I just found her. I’m not prepared to let her go.
I need to make her love me.
”Love, I like the way you taste.”
Once again, and as I have come to expect, the story doesn't quite go the way you expect, Cynthia is a master when it comes to throwing the plot completely off course, but in the right direction at the same time. And I love that I never know 100% where the story and the characters are going to end up!
I cannot wait for Connor’s book – Charming The Beast, which is due for release later this year, as this series has grabbed me now, and I am dying to know where Cynthia is going to take the story next.
ARC supplied via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Marked by the Vampire is book two in Cynthia Eden’s Purgatory Series. I could gush for several paragraphs about this author’s awesomeness, but I don’t want to bore you.
”Better be careful,” ... “You don't know what waits in the darkness.”
I am not a huge PNR reader (although I seem to be ploughing through them lately), but when I see a Cynthia Eden book on Netgalley now, I don’t even read the synopsis before hitting the ‘request’ button. I don't need to know what the book is about to know that I will enjoy it; she is just that type of writer for me. I have a few others that I class as ‘no-brainers’ but if you asked me who my go-to author for romantic suspense is, Cynthia Eden is most likely to be the first name I would throw at you.
”Why do people think,” ... “That vampires are cold?”...
“Because the movies say we’re dead. The dead are cold. The dead don’t have hearts that beat” ... “They say we have no passion.”... “But our hearts beat. We breathe. We live. We need.”
Firstly, I would recommend that you read book one in the Purgatory series, The Wolf Within as although each of the books features around a different couple, there is an underlying story running through. Think of the F.B.I for paranormal disturbances if you will Shane is a Vampire who works with Eric Pate, in containing and removing threat to human life from Vampires, Werewolves and other non-human forms. If taken alive they are then sent to Purgatory Prison.
There are some serious issues with the running of Purgatory, what with the inmates killing each other, and management seemingly encouraging it, as well as a potential uprising and possible escape attempt. Shane is sent in undercover to try and find out what and who is the mastermind behind the unrest.
”You’re dead” ... “Undead is the correct term, jackass. Get it right.”
Unfortunately, Shane didn’t figure the inclusion of Dr. Olivia Maddox on the staff roster for the prison, and she brings out all sorts of over-protective feelings in him, feelings he hasn’t felt in decades...
”I won’t let anyone hurt you. Any who comes after you – human, vamp, werewolf – they’ll have to go through me first.”
Olivia is keeping a few secrets of her own, and once again Cynthia gives us another likeable and kick-ass heroine. I loved the verbal sparring between the two of them, as well as the scorching hot sexy-times.
I want to keep her with me forever.
I just found her. I’m not prepared to let her go.
I need to make her love me.
”Love, I like the way you taste.”
Once again, and as I have come to expect, the story doesn't quite go the way you expect, Cynthia is a master when it comes to throwing the plot completely off course, but in the right direction at the same time. And I love that I never know 100% where the story and the characters are going to end up!
I cannot wait for Connor’s book – Charming The Beast, which is due for release later this year, as this series has grabbed me now, and I am dying to know where Cynthia is going to take the story next.
ARC supplied via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 12, 2015
BASICS
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Any OW/OM?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? YES.
Rating: 4 stars
Review
Wow, whan an action packed read. Loved that. It can also be read as a stand alone.
What happens in short is that both H and h go to Purgatory (prison for paranormals) and they instantly feel attracted to each other. While being there, h becomes a living target, basically everyone wants to kill or use her and H becomes her protector and savior (till the end). After they escape from the island, h is being held prisoner by H and the agency he works for because , also the danger is not over.
Many secrets get revealed, lots of betrayal, action, heartbreak, romace and in the end we still get our HEA.
What bothered me is the constant betrayal from everyone and were it me, I'd be long done with them. Also
All in all is Marked by the Vampire enjoyable read that I'd recomend.
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Any OW/OM?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? YES.
Rating: 4 stars
Review
Wow, whan an action packed read. Loved that. It can also be read as a stand alone.
What happens in short is that both H and h go to Purgatory (prison for paranormals) and they instantly feel attracted to each other. While being there, h becomes a living target, basically everyone wants to kill or use her and H becomes her protector and savior (till the end). After they escape from the island, h is being held prisoner by H and the agency he works for because , also the danger is not over.
Many secrets get revealed, lots of betrayal, action, heartbreak, romace and in the end we still get our HEA.
What bothered me is the constant betrayal from everyone and were it me, I'd be long done with them. Also
All in all is Marked by the Vampire enjoyable read that I'd recomend.
June 24, 2014
There was a time, not so long ago, that I went on a Eden binge. I read all her pnr and even some of her suspense rom as soon as they were published. I have read even some of her earlier books. Lately, I'm starting to realize that my relationship with this author has peaked and now is vanishing.
I'm finding her books blander and blander, a slightly different version of the same mold. The purgatory series doesn't seem to be the book that will change my mind.
As a romance I could not find any reason why the two were together. How they could fall for one another in such a short time was a mystery to me. There's no real mate bond, but I still feel cheated of a real romance. If it was there, I didn't see it.
But I'm even more annoyed by the lack of agency of the heroine. Good lord, she's supposed to be such a powerful other. But she's the paper version of the dumb blonde, the damsel in distress that has to be saved every single time, even for a broken nail. *shudder*
Even if she is supposed to be this top notch psychologist, she doesn't see beyond her, clearly small, nose. She is betrayed by every single character in the book.The "hero" keeps betraying her (for her own good of course) in an incredible show of ass-ness. Do you think it makes a bloody difference? Sorry, I need my heroine with a backbone and some verve.
The ending was so lame that I was really thinking of giving it a lower rating...
I'm finding her books blander and blander, a slightly different version of the same mold. The purgatory series doesn't seem to be the book that will change my mind.
As a romance I could not find any reason why the two were together. How they could fall for one another in such a short time was a mystery to me. There's no real mate bond, but I still feel cheated of a real romance. If it was there, I didn't see it.
But I'm even more annoyed by the lack of agency of the heroine. Good lord, she's supposed to be such a powerful other. But she's the paper version of the dumb blonde, the damsel in distress that has to be saved every single time, even for a broken nail. *shudder*
Even if she is supposed to be this top notch psychologist, she doesn't see beyond her, clearly small, nose. She is betrayed by every single character in the book.The "hero" keeps betraying her (for her own good of course) in an incredible show of ass-ness. Do you think it makes a bloody difference? Sorry, I need my heroine with a backbone and some verve.
The ending was so lame that I was really thinking of giving it a lower rating...
December 8, 2016
Marked by the Vampire was another enjoyable read in this series. PNR has always been my first love but I will admit I don't read it as much as I did, but Cynthia Eden is still one of my favorite go to authors. Shane was awesome, I just love the really old strong vampires. Olivia was cute unfortunately she annoyed me at times but I did understand her reactions to those around her and why it was very hard to trust anyone. I loved the chemistry between them, it was really hot at times. Looking forward to Connor's book.
July 25, 2014
"I want to keep her with me forever.
I just found her. I’m not prepared to let her go." -Shane
Marked by the Vampire is the second addition in the Purgatory Series by Cynthia Eden. This book tells the story of Dr. Olivia Maddox and Shane, an FBI Agent.
Olivia is an ambitious doctor who hopes to get access to the Purgatory prison, where the most dangerous paranormals are sent, in order to furher research the paranormal powers. Shane is sent to the Purgatory as an undercover agent with a mission. His mission though is forgotten as soon as he meets Olivia on his way to "hell". Olivia suspects that something's off with Shane but she couldn't be more wrong...
Shane isn't your average vampire but neither is Olivia. They both have sectrets and a past that should stay hidden. Their attraction is immediate as is the deep connection they have. Shane knows that the Purgatory is out of control and Olivia won't be able to survive without him protecting her. Olivia knew that Purgatory wasn't the average prison but the corruption within terrifies her. When "accidents" start happening to her and especially when a werewolf discovers what Olivia really is, she knows that she must leave. Leaving though isn't as easy as she thinks.
Shane is shocked by the anorthodox way the purgatory is run. When he feels that the danger cannot be ignored anymore, he just grapps Olivia and escapes. But running won't save them from either threat, not the werewolves and surely not the person who knows Olivia's every secret, even the ones she doesn't know yet...
Cynthia has done it again! Eden's books are always a must-read for me even when I don't know the synopsis. The purgatory series is a new series bound to keep you at the edge of your seats. Shane is the typical vampire alpha and Olivia is something else. She surely has unexpected secrets that may destroy them all. But that doesn't make her the bad guy. She's a good person that struggles to find the truth that's been hidden from her. Someone knows the truth and is trying the make Olivia part of their team, even without her will. But Shane will do anything to protect the woman he thinks is his mate...
“I don’t need as much blood to survive as other vampires do. Sunlight can never hurt me, but I do have a weakness. One.”
“What’s that?”
“You.”
I loved the book! It had a nice flow, gripped my attention from the beggiing till the end, it had action, suspense, romance, lots of paranormal creatures and an unexpected end. This is actually the reason why I love Cynthia : you can never tell the end! She just surprises you everytime. I literally can't wait for the next installment in the series CHARMING THE BEAST, Connor's story maybe with Chloe (releasing later in 2014).
Note : MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone but I'd definitely recommend reading The Wolf Within first, the first book in the series!
Posted at: http://sofialovesreading.blogspot.gr/...
I just found her. I’m not prepared to let her go." -Shane
Marked by the Vampire is the second addition in the Purgatory Series by Cynthia Eden. This book tells the story of Dr. Olivia Maddox and Shane, an FBI Agent.
Olivia is an ambitious doctor who hopes to get access to the Purgatory prison, where the most dangerous paranormals are sent, in order to furher research the paranormal powers. Shane is sent to the Purgatory as an undercover agent with a mission. His mission though is forgotten as soon as he meets Olivia on his way to "hell". Olivia suspects that something's off with Shane but she couldn't be more wrong...
Shane isn't your average vampire but neither is Olivia. They both have sectrets and a past that should stay hidden. Their attraction is immediate as is the deep connection they have. Shane knows that the Purgatory is out of control and Olivia won't be able to survive without him protecting her. Olivia knew that Purgatory wasn't the average prison but the corruption within terrifies her. When "accidents" start happening to her and especially when a werewolf discovers what Olivia really is, she knows that she must leave. Leaving though isn't as easy as she thinks.
Shane is shocked by the anorthodox way the purgatory is run. When he feels that the danger cannot be ignored anymore, he just grapps Olivia and escapes. But running won't save them from either threat, not the werewolves and surely not the person who knows Olivia's every secret, even the ones she doesn't know yet...
Cynthia has done it again! Eden's books are always a must-read for me even when I don't know the synopsis. The purgatory series is a new series bound to keep you at the edge of your seats. Shane is the typical vampire alpha and Olivia is something else. She surely has unexpected secrets that may destroy them all. But that doesn't make her the bad guy. She's a good person that struggles to find the truth that's been hidden from her. Someone knows the truth and is trying the make Olivia part of their team, even without her will. But Shane will do anything to protect the woman he thinks is his mate...
“I don’t need as much blood to survive as other vampires do. Sunlight can never hurt me, but I do have a weakness. One.”
“What’s that?”
“You.”
I loved the book! It had a nice flow, gripped my attention from the beggiing till the end, it had action, suspense, romance, lots of paranormal creatures and an unexpected end. This is actually the reason why I love Cynthia : you can never tell the end! She just surprises you everytime. I literally can't wait for the next installment in the series CHARMING THE BEAST, Connor's story maybe with Chloe (releasing later in 2014).
Note : MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone but I'd definitely recommend reading The Wolf Within first, the first book in the series!
Posted at: http://sofialovesreading.blogspot.gr/...
December 22, 2014
Read this review on Got Fiction? book blog
This is just what I needed! No one writes Paranormals like Cynthia Eden does!
We are going back to Purgatory, a sort of Alcatraz for paranormals. But things aren’t going so well. In the first book, the corruption may have been cleaned up, but who’s watching the cleaners? (Isn’t that a Latin phrase? Who watches the guardians or something like that) anyway, going back to the book, Olivia wants in. She’s on a mission to find out why some paranormals kill, and others don’t. She feels this is really important, and she’s been trying to figure it out with human serial killers, but it’s time to step up her game. What she doesn’t know, is that she only gets in because someone else wants her in.
Shane is an agent who goes in undercover. He’s trying to figure out what’s going on inside Purgatory. His boss knows something isn’t right, but can’t put his finger on what, exactly. What I loved about him, is that he knows who he is, and he’s fine with that. No self-loathing emo vamp boy here! He’s also not a jackass hero, he’s just strong, determined, and knows his own mind. I hesitate to use the term Alpha Male, since lately that meaning has morphed into controlling a-hole. But he’s more of the true Alpha hero from a few years ago. He’s protective and possessive without being a jerk. His cover is blown almost immediately too, which kick starts this book off with a bang!
I liked this book better than the first, The Wolf Within, but mostly because this book knows where it’s going, and what it’s doing. In The Wolf Within, I feel like it had to set up the new series, where this book was able to just jump in with both feet.
***NOTE THE WOLF WITHIN IS FREE AT THE TIME OF THIS REVIEW click here
The next book is fantastic as well, look for that review in a day or two.
***ARC courtesy of the author— however I then bought it because, sexy man cover!
This is just what I needed! No one writes Paranormals like Cynthia Eden does!
We are going back to Purgatory, a sort of Alcatraz for paranormals. But things aren’t going so well. In the first book, the corruption may have been cleaned up, but who’s watching the cleaners? (Isn’t that a Latin phrase? Who watches the guardians or something like that) anyway, going back to the book, Olivia wants in. She’s on a mission to find out why some paranormals kill, and others don’t. She feels this is really important, and she’s been trying to figure it out with human serial killers, but it’s time to step up her game. What she doesn’t know, is that she only gets in because someone else wants her in.
Shane is an agent who goes in undercover. He’s trying to figure out what’s going on inside Purgatory. His boss knows something isn’t right, but can’t put his finger on what, exactly. What I loved about him, is that he knows who he is, and he’s fine with that. No self-loathing emo vamp boy here! He’s also not a jackass hero, he’s just strong, determined, and knows his own mind. I hesitate to use the term Alpha Male, since lately that meaning has morphed into controlling a-hole. But he’s more of the true Alpha hero from a few years ago. He’s protective and possessive without being a jerk. His cover is blown almost immediately too, which kick starts this book off with a bang!
I liked this book better than the first, The Wolf Within, but mostly because this book knows where it’s going, and what it’s doing. In The Wolf Within, I feel like it had to set up the new series, where this book was able to just jump in with both feet.
***NOTE THE WOLF WITHIN IS FREE AT THE TIME OF THIS REVIEW click here
The next book is fantastic as well, look for that review in a day or two.
***ARC courtesy of the author— however I then bought it because, sexy man cover!
August 8, 2015
Excellent second installment in the Purgatory series.
New couple but a continuation of the same story and same world. I like this human/supernatural world.
And this one has a djinn!
Olivia is a psychologist and has been sent to purgatory to analyse the monsters within.
Things do go quite to plan when she runs into Shane.The ferry scene in particular is quite interesting.
I like the way you smell, he told her , and she fled the slight movement of mouth against her ear as he whispered, "I didn't expect to find something so sweet on my way to hell."
Shane is an ancient Vampire who is undercover at purgatory. Olivia and him have an instant connection.
Cynthia Eden has a talent for writing a good tale, with clear characters. An although her stories are a little shorter, they feel full and not spread thin. She also can write that intensity of emotion and build up of tension that is missing in a lot of books.
"Love, I like the the way you taste."
I really enjoyed Marked By The Vampire and I am off to read the next installment in the Purgatory series.
November 24, 2018
The story was good, the plot was fast and action packed. I LOVED Shane but that ending had me shaking my head. I understand that Olivia was a Djinn and was really powerful but I didn’t like how they got rid of her powers and made her into a Vampire.I felt that was an easy fix and I would have liked her to stay the way she is and not lose her powers. It would be nice to see how the couple would have come to terms with her powers and felt she would be a better assets if she was still a djinn. Changing her in my mind just made her weak and that part of the book fell flat. Aside from that issue this was another good story and I’m excited to read about Connor and Chloe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2020
Loved this one
June 9, 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 9, 2014
Vampires exist. So do werewolves. The creatures that you fear in the darkness? They’re all real. And the baddest of the paranormals…those who love to hurt humans…they’re sent to Purgatory, the only paranormal prison in the U.S.
His job is to stop the monsters.
Deadly forces are at work within Purgatory. The monsters are joining together—and their plans have to be stopped. FBI Agent Shane August, a very powerful vampire with a dark past, is sent into the prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary.
She wants to help the prisoners.
Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. What pushes some vampires over the edge? Why do some werewolves turn so savage? If she can understand the monsters, then Olivia thinks she can help them. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Olivia believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime.
Olivia doesn't realize that she’s walking straight into hell.
To survive, they have to rely on each other.
When the prisoners break loose, there is only one person—one vampire—who can protect her, but as Olivia and Shane fight the enemies that surround them, a dark and dangerous passion stirs to life between the doctor and the vamp. Shane realizes that Olivia is a woman carrying secrets—powerful, sinful secrets. Secrets that a man would kill to possess.
And Olivia realizes that—sometimes—you can’t control the beast inside of you. No matter how hard you try. Some passions can push you to the very limits of your control…and the growing lust that she feels for her vampire…it’s sending her racing right into a deadly storm of desire.
Welcome to Purgatory…a place that’s a real hell on earth…
~~~~~~~~
REVIEW: MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is the second instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult Purgatory paranormal series. Purgatory is an island prison for the supernatural-those that cannot be controlled. This is Dr. Olivia Maddox and FBI Agent Shane August’s storyline. Although this is the second in the series, MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone. Some of the previous storyline characters play secondary roles and any information from the prior story is imparted where necessary.
Told from third person POV the story follows Olivia Maddox as she has gained access to Purgatory to further her research surrounding the darkest of the supernatural powers. But Olivia has a secret-one that if discovered or released-will place everyone in danger. So to add to her protection, vampire and Para Unit specialist Shane August is sent in undercover only to realize a little too late that they have both ‘literally’ been thrown to the wolves. Someone knows about Olivia’s true identity and is hoping that Purgatory will keep her under control.
The attraction between Shane and Olivia is immediate. They have a connection that can only be called fated and in this Shane is determined to protect Olivia at all costs-even if it means taking out everyone who threatens the woman he believes to be his mate.
The secondary characters include many of the previous storyline characters as well as a new cast of villains who are on the hunt for the ultimate in supernatural powers. The storyline is well paced; the suspense and mystery will keep the reader on the edge of their seat-and in the end-there was very little difference between good and evil. Trust must be earned and very little is earned throughout the story. Needless to say, Olivia had some major issues of trust, especially when she found herself imprisoned by the very people who had promised to keep her safe.
Cynthia Eden writes an exciting and intense story with all the hallmarks of a paranormal mystery-the reader is never sure just who is the bad guy; who is the betrayer; and who can be trusted with your life. Life in Purgatory is hell, but working with the Para Unit is like working for the Devil-himself.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
Vampires exist. So do werewolves. The creatures that you fear in the darkness? They’re all real. And the baddest of the paranormals…those who love to hurt humans…they’re sent to Purgatory, the only paranormal prison in the U.S.
His job is to stop the monsters.
Deadly forces are at work within Purgatory. The monsters are joining together—and their plans have to be stopped. FBI Agent Shane August, a very powerful vampire with a dark past, is sent into the prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary.
She wants to help the prisoners.
Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. What pushes some vampires over the edge? Why do some werewolves turn so savage? If she can understand the monsters, then Olivia thinks she can help them. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Olivia believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime.
Olivia doesn't realize that she’s walking straight into hell.
To survive, they have to rely on each other.
When the prisoners break loose, there is only one person—one vampire—who can protect her, but as Olivia and Shane fight the enemies that surround them, a dark and dangerous passion stirs to life between the doctor and the vamp. Shane realizes that Olivia is a woman carrying secrets—powerful, sinful secrets. Secrets that a man would kill to possess.
And Olivia realizes that—sometimes—you can’t control the beast inside of you. No matter how hard you try. Some passions can push you to the very limits of your control…and the growing lust that she feels for her vampire…it’s sending her racing right into a deadly storm of desire.
Welcome to Purgatory…a place that’s a real hell on earth…
~~~~~~~~
REVIEW: MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is the second instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult Purgatory paranormal series. Purgatory is an island prison for the supernatural-those that cannot be controlled. This is Dr. Olivia Maddox and FBI Agent Shane August’s storyline. Although this is the second in the series, MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone. Some of the previous storyline characters play secondary roles and any information from the prior story is imparted where necessary.
Told from third person POV the story follows Olivia Maddox as she has gained access to Purgatory to further her research surrounding the darkest of the supernatural powers. But Olivia has a secret-one that if discovered or released-will place everyone in danger. So to add to her protection, vampire and Para Unit specialist Shane August is sent in undercover only to realize a little too late that they have both ‘literally’ been thrown to the wolves. Someone knows about Olivia’s true identity and is hoping that Purgatory will keep her under control.
The attraction between Shane and Olivia is immediate. They have a connection that can only be called fated and in this Shane is determined to protect Olivia at all costs-even if it means taking out everyone who threatens the woman he believes to be his mate.
The secondary characters include many of the previous storyline characters as well as a new cast of villains who are on the hunt for the ultimate in supernatural powers. The storyline is well paced; the suspense and mystery will keep the reader on the edge of their seat-and in the end-there was very little difference between good and evil. Trust must be earned and very little is earned throughout the story. Needless to say, Olivia had some major issues of trust, especially when she found herself imprisoned by the very people who had promised to keep her safe.
Cynthia Eden writes an exciting and intense story with all the hallmarks of a paranormal mystery-the reader is never sure just who is the bad guy; who is the betrayer; and who can be trusted with your life. Life in Purgatory is hell, but working with the Para Unit is like working for the Devil-himself.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
June 16, 2014
Originally Posted At My Site: Addicted To Romance
Received a ARC in return for a honest review.
Olivia has been studying the minds of killers for years, but those were human killers. Now she is determined to figure out why some werewolves and vampires go bad, and so she heads into "Purgatory" a prison for the rogues who kill with no remorse. On her journey across the ocean to the island where they are housed, she shares a boat with one of those headed to Purgatory. A vampire who takes her breath away and she instantly feels a connection to him, despite the fact that he could kill her at a instant. Shane, is undercover, trying to figure out what is going on at Purgatory, but never expected to meet Olivia or have to protect her when circumstances turn upside down, and Shane will have to use everything he has learned over the centuries to protect Olivia...his woman...his mate, who holds the key to saving the world or destroying it.
This is the first time I have had a chance to read from Cynthia Eden. So when I was offered a chance to read this book in exchange for a honest review...I just had to leap at this chance. Now I was expecting a story that I would probably like.....but I can say I am so IMPRESSED right now!!! I read this in a couple of hours, and the time just flew by. I just couldn't get enough of this story. It was everything I needed. The past couple books I have read didn't meet up to my expectations...so after reading this, I knew that this story was just perfect for me. Marked By The Vampire is the second book in the Purgatory series, and I will say that even though I would have liked to read the first book, I was fine without reading it when I was reading this installment. It can easily be read as a stand a lone if needed.
The story begins with Olivia meeting Shane for the first time. And oh boy I felt like my apartment could be lit up just by the chemistry they made by their eye contact. Their connection is instantaneous, sexy and hot!! You just might want to be prepared and bring a fire extinguisher for this one. There is so much passion, action and enough conflict, it might just stop your heart; and I LOVED every moment. Shane is that Alpha male you just want for yourself. Predatory, powerful, cunning and possessive as hell. Shane was such a compelling hero, and I loved the hero complex he tends to have...especially when it comes to Olivia. Olivia is feisty, sensual, smart, and isn't afraid to defend herself. I grew to really like her, and even though she could be a bit annoying at the end of the story, you don't mind too much, when she really handles what is thrown at her. I enjoyed the layout of the story, and the suspense and action never seemed to stop. Just when I thought Shane and Olivia get a break, something else gets thrown at them, and they seem to handle it just fine.
Overall a exciting and thrilling romantic tale with plenty of paranormal drama, emotional intensity and a love connection to make you want to immerse yourself in this story forever!! A author that I will definitely be reading more of. MAGNIFICENT!
Received a ARC in return for a honest review.
Olivia has been studying the minds of killers for years, but those were human killers. Now she is determined to figure out why some werewolves and vampires go bad, and so she heads into "Purgatory" a prison for the rogues who kill with no remorse. On her journey across the ocean to the island where they are housed, she shares a boat with one of those headed to Purgatory. A vampire who takes her breath away and she instantly feels a connection to him, despite the fact that he could kill her at a instant. Shane, is undercover, trying to figure out what is going on at Purgatory, but never expected to meet Olivia or have to protect her when circumstances turn upside down, and Shane will have to use everything he has learned over the centuries to protect Olivia...his woman...his mate, who holds the key to saving the world or destroying it.
This is the first time I have had a chance to read from Cynthia Eden. So when I was offered a chance to read this book in exchange for a honest review...I just had to leap at this chance. Now I was expecting a story that I would probably like.....but I can say I am so IMPRESSED right now!!! I read this in a couple of hours, and the time just flew by. I just couldn't get enough of this story. It was everything I needed. The past couple books I have read didn't meet up to my expectations...so after reading this, I knew that this story was just perfect for me. Marked By The Vampire is the second book in the Purgatory series, and I will say that even though I would have liked to read the first book, I was fine without reading it when I was reading this installment. It can easily be read as a stand a lone if needed.
The story begins with Olivia meeting Shane for the first time. And oh boy I felt like my apartment could be lit up just by the chemistry they made by their eye contact. Their connection is instantaneous, sexy and hot!! You just might want to be prepared and bring a fire extinguisher for this one. There is so much passion, action and enough conflict, it might just stop your heart; and I LOVED every moment. Shane is that Alpha male you just want for yourself. Predatory, powerful, cunning and possessive as hell. Shane was such a compelling hero, and I loved the hero complex he tends to have...especially when it comes to Olivia. Olivia is feisty, sensual, smart, and isn't afraid to defend herself. I grew to really like her, and even though she could be a bit annoying at the end of the story, you don't mind too much, when she really handles what is thrown at her. I enjoyed the layout of the story, and the suspense and action never seemed to stop. Just when I thought Shane and Olivia get a break, something else gets thrown at them, and they seem to handle it just fine.
Overall a exciting and thrilling romantic tale with plenty of paranormal drama, emotional intensity and a love connection to make you want to immerse yourself in this story forever!! A author that I will definitely be reading more of. MAGNIFICENT!
June 12, 2014
This is the second book in the Purgatory series and although I would advise reading the first book if you are a werewolf fan it's not essential as this story is easy to read as a standalone . Ths author has such an incredible imagination that I personally would recommend any of her books but for me it's her paranormals that hold a place dear to my heart. This particular book simply blew me away as not only is it a fantastically unique idea but the execution is just damned sexy! Pick up this book and be prepared to need a cold shower !
Olivia has the job she always wanted and now her latest assignment will hopefully see her getting the answers she needs. In a world were paranormals live amongst humans the most dangerous and bloodthirsty are captured and incarcerated at a top security prison known as Purgatory. Olivia knows that her job of interviewing and trying to find out why some can control their inner beasts better than others will be unpleasent but she's not aware of just how much danger she's truly putting herself in!
Shane is a vampire but he works for an agency that brings the rogues to justice. Purgatory has been failing and it's his job to go in undercover and discover just how deep the rot and corruption go. From the moment he sets eyes on Olivia he knows that she's someone special and his urge to protect her is only matched by his overriding desire to explore her intimately!When Shane's worst fears come true and Olivia's life becomes threatened he needs all his hard won control to get her out alive without tasting her! Olivia thought life couldn't get much worse but she's about to find out that sometimes you get more than you ever wished for!
I absolutely loved this book! It's everything I want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Great storyline and I thought the idea of an Alcatraz style prison for Supernaturals really worked . A fast paced plot with very strong characters that came to life on the page and a twist that had me guessing just who or what one of the characters was! This book was sexy and fun and I can't wait to read more. Most definitely recommended
Olivia has the job she always wanted and now her latest assignment will hopefully see her getting the answers she needs. In a world were paranormals live amongst humans the most dangerous and bloodthirsty are captured and incarcerated at a top security prison known as Purgatory. Olivia knows that her job of interviewing and trying to find out why some can control their inner beasts better than others will be unpleasent but she's not aware of just how much danger she's truly putting herself in!
Shane is a vampire but he works for an agency that brings the rogues to justice. Purgatory has been failing and it's his job to go in undercover and discover just how deep the rot and corruption go. From the moment he sets eyes on Olivia he knows that she's someone special and his urge to protect her is only matched by his overriding desire to explore her intimately!When Shane's worst fears come true and Olivia's life becomes threatened he needs all his hard won control to get her out alive without tasting her! Olivia thought life couldn't get much worse but she's about to find out that sometimes you get more than you ever wished for!
I absolutely loved this book! It's everything I want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Great storyline and I thought the idea of an Alcatraz style prison for Supernaturals really worked . A fast paced plot with very strong characters that came to life on the page and a twist that had me guessing just who or what one of the characters was! This book was sexy and fun and I can't wait to read more. Most definitely recommended
November 4, 2014
Well this is the second excursion into this series and Purgatory will never be the same.
Shane is an ancient vampire (might should be Ancient) who is on a mission, Olivia has gotten a plum assignment to interview some of the most violent horrible criminals ever to hit the earth and she thinks this is a great idea (it's not).
Cynthia Eden is becoming one of my favorite authors after her "Bound By" novels this series seems much more a combo of PNR/UF and a touch of Black-Ops thrown in and it works.
I am not sure where the overarching story is going (the one the series is named after ... Purgatory) but I am going to get right into the next book as soon as I get a chance.
Bottom Line: Had some minor misgivings but nothing to obsess about, the heroine could have used a bit of work, Shane was done great and the secondary characters were a bit more than 2 dimensional which is always a nice touch. 4 Stars and Highly Recommended and I will be moving right on to the just released Charming The Beast (Purgatory Book 3)
Shane is an ancient vampire (might should be Ancient) who is on a mission, Olivia has gotten a plum assignment to interview some of the most violent horrible criminals ever to hit the earth and she thinks this is a great idea (it's not).
Cynthia Eden is becoming one of my favorite authors after her "Bound By" novels this series seems much more a combo of PNR/UF and a touch of Black-Ops thrown in and it works.
I am not sure where the overarching story is going (the one the series is named after ... Purgatory) but I am going to get right into the next book as soon as I get a chance.
Bottom Line: Had some minor misgivings but nothing to obsess about, the heroine could have used a bit of work, Shane was done great and the secondary characters were a bit more than 2 dimensional which is always a nice touch. 4 Stars and Highly Recommended and I will be moving right on to the just released Charming The Beast (Purgatory Book 3)
May 20, 2018
Entertaining, fun and quick paranormal romance. I did enjoy the read, especially the intriguing paranormal suspense part of the book. This author never fails to engage a reader with her suspense. But if you're looking for a book to rock your world or a romance you'll remember and re-read, then this isn't for you. Cynthia Eden is a favorite of mine and most of that is because no matter what book I pick up, I will be entertained. But sometimes the story, especially the romance part, can feel short and lacking in depth or emotion. This book was like that. I wasn't emotionally involved in the characters.
This author always has an excellent plot, but sometimes not a lot of depth. Some of her books are seriously awesome, but I do feel on others that she should spend a bit more time on quality instead of quantity. But that might just be me. But for quick mindless romantic suspense or romantic paranormal suspense, she's awesome and this was a decent read.
This author always has an excellent plot, but sometimes not a lot of depth. Some of her books are seriously awesome, but I do feel on others that she should spend a bit more time on quality instead of quantity. But that might just be me. But for quick mindless romantic suspense or romantic paranormal suspense, she's awesome and this was a decent read.
August 31, 2016
This book was OMG -awesome!! From the first page I could tell Cynthia was not going to play with Marked By the Vampire.
So let's see what I can tell you without giving anything away. First off is the female lead, Dr. Olivia Maddox. She is a professor and she specializes in serial killers. We know she suffered a childhood event that has her determined to study killers of the paranormal ilk and find out why they snap and kill innocents. What better place to do this than Purgatory, an uber secure prison for paras. Olivia is in denial or mostly unaware of a great many things about her past, her self and those she believes she can trust. So, knowledge is power, and what you don't know can totally ruin your day.
Entire review posted at http://ragesexandteddybears.blogspot....
So let's see what I can tell you without giving anything away. First off is the female lead, Dr. Olivia Maddox. She is a professor and she specializes in serial killers. We know she suffered a childhood event that has her determined to study killers of the paranormal ilk and find out why they snap and kill innocents. What better place to do this than Purgatory, an uber secure prison for paras. Olivia is in denial or mostly unaware of a great many things about her past, her self and those she believes she can trust. So, knowledge is power, and what you don't know can totally ruin your day.
Entire review posted at http://ragesexandteddybears.blogspot....
January 25, 2025
Although this is book 2 in the Purgatory series, it can be read as a standalone. Special Agent Shane August is a powerful and ancient vampire who works in the Para(normal) Unit at the FBI. Shane goes undercover as an inmate at the only paranormal prison in the U.S. Dr. Olivia Maddox is a criminal psychologist who gets sent to the prison for research purposes. Or, at least, that's what she thinks.
Just like the first book, Marked by the Vampire is action-packed and the story takes place within the space of days. And since this is paranormal romance, it's easy to suspend disbelief about the quick romantic development. The story is very fast-paced and entertaining. The world building expands a bit more in this case and it's also a lot more refined compared to the previous book.
I devoured this book in a day and I can't wait to start Connor's book!
Just like the first book, Marked by the Vampire is action-packed and the story takes place within the space of days. And since this is paranormal romance, it's easy to suspend disbelief about the quick romantic development. The story is very fast-paced and entertaining. The world building expands a bit more in this case and it's also a lot more refined compared to the previous book.
I devoured this book in a day and I can't wait to start Connor's book!
June 9, 2014
Olivia is on her way to the top security prison Purgatory to interview some of the inmates, paranormal inmates, when she meets Shane.
Shane is undercover, impersonating a vampire detainee, to investigate how corrupt the prison system is. He never thought he´d meet someone like Olivia, a woman who makes him feel all too much.
When the situation at Purgatory turns out to be ever worse than he thought, he has to try and keep Olivia save.
But that turns out to be easier said than done.
PNR, action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great combo that Cynthia Eden always delivers.
Shane is undercover, impersonating a vampire detainee, to investigate how corrupt the prison system is. He never thought he´d meet someone like Olivia, a woman who makes him feel all too much.
When the situation at Purgatory turns out to be ever worse than he thought, he has to try and keep Olivia save.
But that turns out to be easier said than done.
PNR, action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great combo that Cynthia Eden always delivers.
October 27, 2014
ARC received via NetGalley
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first in the series
I liked that even though it was focused on the relationship between two characters, it was a continuation of the overall Purgatory story.
I liked the paranormal creatures that were used within the book - the popular/often-used werewolves and vampires, and then genies (I have never read a book with these in so it was refreshing).
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first in the series
I liked that even though it was focused on the relationship between two characters, it was a continuation of the overall Purgatory story.
I liked the paranormal creatures that were used within the book - the popular/often-used werewolves and vampires, and then genies (I have never read a book with these in so it was refreshing).
March 28, 2019
Paranormal mess.
Are there any humans? At least one decent human?!... 🙄
He slaughtered many innocent ppl for centuries, but she found it to be ok, coz he didn't hurt her 🙄 Please...
Bite them to all 🤤
Are there any humans? At least one decent human?!... 🙄
He slaughtered many innocent ppl for centuries, but she found it to be ok, coz he didn't hurt her 🙄 Please...
Bite them to all 🤤
May 10, 2020
I loved reading Shane and Olivia story. The problem again? Too damn short!
August 27, 2024
This book was soooo ridiculous. Objectively bad. I loved it. Nothing better than a vampire working for the FBI. I will immediately be reading the rest of the series.
June 14, 2014
Contemporary, Paranormal, Washington State
Shane August is an FBI Agent that is also a very powerful vampire with a dark past. He is sent to a prison for an undercover assignment. It is his job to infiltrate the vampire clan any way he can. It’s his job to stop the monsters that live among the humans. There are deadly forces working within Purgatory, the only prison in the U.S. that is made to keep the paranormals confined.
Dr. Olivia Maddox is determined to find out why some paranormals go bad and others keep control. Why some vampires are pushed over the edge and why some werewolves turn savage. Olivia thinks she can help them if she can just understand them. When she is given permission to enter Purgatory she thinks she is getting the opportunity of a lifetime. What she doesn’t know that she is actually walking straight into hell.
Shane and Olivia’s only chance at survival is to depend on each other. Olivia’s only chance at surviving the prisoners that have broken loose is one vampire. Shane is the only one that can protect her. While they fight the enemies surrounding them a dangerous passion comes to life between them. Shane realizes that there is more to the doctor than he first thought. She is a woman with powerful sinful secrets that she has been is carrying around. Secrets that a man will kill to possess.
Olivia soon realizes that sometimes you can’t control the beast inside you. No matter how hard you try. There are some passions that can push you to the limits of your control. The lust she feels growing inside her for her vampire is sending her straight into a deadly storm of desire.
This is proving to be an excellent series. The characters are complex and intriguing and pull the reader right into the story. While so far the stories prove to hold up on their own they are much better read as a series as things that happen in the first book show up in the second and the reader has a better understanding of what is happening in the series by reading all the books. This one wraps up nicely but leaves enough to easily have more books in the series. The world building is great and will have readers wishing that this world was real. It is dark and edgy and full of action. With enough suspense woven into it that it will keep readers guessing as to what the characters secrets are and just what will happen next. It is also a relatively quick read that makes for a wonderful break from the real world.
Shane August is an FBI Agent that is also a very powerful vampire with a dark past. He is sent to a prison for an undercover assignment. It is his job to infiltrate the vampire clan any way he can. It’s his job to stop the monsters that live among the humans. There are deadly forces working within Purgatory, the only prison in the U.S. that is made to keep the paranormals confined.
Dr. Olivia Maddox is determined to find out why some paranormals go bad and others keep control. Why some vampires are pushed over the edge and why some werewolves turn savage. Olivia thinks she can help them if she can just understand them. When she is given permission to enter Purgatory she thinks she is getting the opportunity of a lifetime. What she doesn’t know that she is actually walking straight into hell.
Shane and Olivia’s only chance at survival is to depend on each other. Olivia’s only chance at surviving the prisoners that have broken loose is one vampire. Shane is the only one that can protect her. While they fight the enemies surrounding them a dangerous passion comes to life between them. Shane realizes that there is more to the doctor than he first thought. She is a woman with powerful sinful secrets that she has been is carrying around. Secrets that a man will kill to possess.
Olivia soon realizes that sometimes you can’t control the beast inside you. No matter how hard you try. There are some passions that can push you to the limits of your control. The lust she feels growing inside her for her vampire is sending her straight into a deadly storm of desire.
This is proving to be an excellent series. The characters are complex and intriguing and pull the reader right into the story. While so far the stories prove to hold up on their own they are much better read as a series as things that happen in the first book show up in the second and the reader has a better understanding of what is happening in the series by reading all the books. This one wraps up nicely but leaves enough to easily have more books in the series. The world building is great and will have readers wishing that this world was real. It is dark and edgy and full of action. With enough suspense woven into it that it will keep readers guessing as to what the characters secrets are and just what will happen next. It is also a relatively quick read that makes for a wonderful break from the real world.
June 10, 2014
Marked By The Vampire, Cynthia Eden
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I've read several of Cynthia's books now, so I know I enjoy her classic, succinct writing style. All story, no waffling! This one is paranormal ( its that vampire bit in the title that gives it away – yes?) and was a fun read.
To begin with we're given a clue that some people aren't exactly what they seem, and that there is clearly some uncover/underhanded work going on. That fits in with much of Cynthia's novels that I've enjoyed, they have that suspense element and she does that really well, keeping me guessing exactly whats happeneing. So it was with this one, til it got to the point where I was wondering just what and who was going to be revealed next...dealing and double dealing, people who were working for others and not the side I expected, all wrapped up with some danger, violence, and sexy, sensual sex....A great mix.
I liked Shane right from the start, and it was clear that he was in Purgatory for reasons other than what were given, but I didn't know who else was in on that, and what he was actually there for. Olivia seemed a troubled person, seeking to find out what made killers act as they did, but she didn't fit the usual “do-gooders” mould, and wasn't afraid of danger – til she reached Purgatory where the danger wasn't just the usual from interviewing dangerous prisoners, but had the added addition of someone – or maybe several someones – flipping and messing with the safety measures. Why, who, when and where was the next danger coming from. It's a novel full of suspense and danger and some vivid surprises, but with a perfect ending. Its the second in a series, I've not read the first but that was fine, as it seems each is a standalone, but with connected characters so it's the sort I like, where novels are complete but integrated with each other and carrying an overall story arc. I look forward to more.
Stars: Four – a fun read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I've read several of Cynthia's books now, so I know I enjoy her classic, succinct writing style. All story, no waffling! This one is paranormal ( its that vampire bit in the title that gives it away – yes?) and was a fun read.
To begin with we're given a clue that some people aren't exactly what they seem, and that there is clearly some uncover/underhanded work going on. That fits in with much of Cynthia's novels that I've enjoyed, they have that suspense element and she does that really well, keeping me guessing exactly whats happeneing. So it was with this one, til it got to the point where I was wondering just what and who was going to be revealed next...dealing and double dealing, people who were working for others and not the side I expected, all wrapped up with some danger, violence, and sexy, sensual sex....A great mix.
I liked Shane right from the start, and it was clear that he was in Purgatory for reasons other than what were given, but I didn't know who else was in on that, and what he was actually there for. Olivia seemed a troubled person, seeking to find out what made killers act as they did, but she didn't fit the usual “do-gooders” mould, and wasn't afraid of danger – til she reached Purgatory where the danger wasn't just the usual from interviewing dangerous prisoners, but had the added addition of someone – or maybe several someones – flipping and messing with the safety measures. Why, who, when and where was the next danger coming from. It's a novel full of suspense and danger and some vivid surprises, but with a perfect ending. Its the second in a series, I've not read the first but that was fine, as it seems each is a standalone, but with connected characters so it's the sort I like, where novels are complete but integrated with each other and carrying an overall story arc. I look forward to more.
Stars: Four – a fun read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley.
June 13, 2014
Overall: 4-1/2 Stars
Marked by the Vampire is book 2 in the Purgatory series, but can be read as a standalone. I did not read the previous book, The Wolf Within, prior to reading this one, and didn't feel like I was missing any big chunks of the story. BUT there are characters from the previous book in this novel, and my interest in their story is definitely peaked, so I'm looking forward to reading their story.
I really enjoyed this read. "Why?" you ask. Because:
1. It's a quick read, with a storyline that moves and flows from start to finish. I was never bored, and got all the action, intensity, passion, and intrigue I was hoping for.
2. Vampires and werewolves never get old. And these ones had their own twist on things, which made the read that much more fascinating. Plus, throw in some other curious paranormal elements, and my attention was fully kept.
3. The concept of a paranormal prison called Purgatory that's located on an island? Seriously, how cool does that sound! I've been to Alcatraz, so it was easy for me to imagine this prison island.
4. Truly interesting characters that were strong and brave, yet vulnerable when they needed to be. Getting to know these characters in less than 200 pages was really well done. Plus, there are some great twists and spins on them, and I loved that I wasn't always sure what each characters was about.
5. I'm a sucker when it comes to "mates" and this book delivered just what I was hoping for. I could feel the chemistry, the passion, the heat, and the draw right through the pages. I believed the characters and their story. Then, with some blood-sucking thrown in, everything was golden!
6. I not only enjoyed this story, I also loved the ending. But it doesn't end there. Now I want to read the previous book. And if there are more books to come, I'd like to read those, too. I'm excited to find this new paranormal series.
Marked by the Vampire is book 2 in the Purgatory series, but can be read as a standalone. I did not read the previous book, The Wolf Within, prior to reading this one, and didn't feel like I was missing any big chunks of the story. BUT there are characters from the previous book in this novel, and my interest in their story is definitely peaked, so I'm looking forward to reading their story.
I really enjoyed this read. "Why?" you ask. Because:
1. It's a quick read, with a storyline that moves and flows from start to finish. I was never bored, and got all the action, intensity, passion, and intrigue I was hoping for.
2. Vampires and werewolves never get old. And these ones had their own twist on things, which made the read that much more fascinating. Plus, throw in some other curious paranormal elements, and my attention was fully kept.
3. The concept of a paranormal prison called Purgatory that's located on an island? Seriously, how cool does that sound! I've been to Alcatraz, so it was easy for me to imagine this prison island.
4. Truly interesting characters that were strong and brave, yet vulnerable when they needed to be. Getting to know these characters in less than 200 pages was really well done. Plus, there are some great twists and spins on them, and I loved that I wasn't always sure what each characters was about.
5. I'm a sucker when it comes to "mates" and this book delivered just what I was hoping for. I could feel the chemistry, the passion, the heat, and the draw right through the pages. I believed the characters and their story. Then, with some blood-sucking thrown in, everything was golden!
6. I not only enjoyed this story, I also loved the ending. But it doesn't end there. Now I want to read the previous book. And if there are more books to come, I'd like to read those, too. I'm excited to find this new paranormal series.
August 25, 2014
A sexy PNRe read with hot vampires and werewolves? Oh my! Loved the first book in this series, and the second did not disappoint!
"These aren't some romantic, sweet, glittering vampires." -Pate
This book had it all, vampires, werewolves... and something else. Something that was new to me. Nope, not gonna tell ya! This is a must read to find out!
The sex was hot, the humor was funny, and the tension was... well, pretty intense sometimes! I loved the inner monologue in the main character's heads, and between them.. this book made me laugh a few times at just the right times. Timing is everything. Eight?!
Dr. Olivia Maddox goes to Purgatory to study the vampires and werewolves within those walls to find out what it is that causes certain members of these species to turn into bloodthirsty murders.
Shane August, an undercover FBI Agent, is sent on assignment to Purgatory to infiltrate the vampire clan. He's an ancient, and the strongest of the strong when it comes to vampires. He needs to find out exactly what is going on in Purgatory.
What Shane finds there instead is Olivia, and his whole world is turned upside down, literally. She is like nothing he's ever known in his thousands of years of living, and all he knows is he must have her... before she completely blows his cover!
All she knows is that, *that* will never happen.
Or will it?
"She'd just feel much better about all of this if she had a stake in her hand." -Olivia
I can't wait until Book 3 in this series comes out! Cynthia Eden is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in this particular genre!
These books are stand alone, but i don't think you'll want to miss the first in this series, The Wolf Within, since a lot of the characters from that book play a part in this one, but it's not absolutely necessary. You won't feel like you've missed something if you only read this one.
Solid 4 Stars
"These aren't some romantic, sweet, glittering vampires." -Pate
This book had it all, vampires, werewolves... and something else. Something that was new to me. Nope, not gonna tell ya! This is a must read to find out!
The sex was hot, the humor was funny, and the tension was... well, pretty intense sometimes! I loved the inner monologue in the main character's heads, and between them.. this book made me laugh a few times at just the right times. Timing is everything. Eight?!
Dr. Olivia Maddox goes to Purgatory to study the vampires and werewolves within those walls to find out what it is that causes certain members of these species to turn into bloodthirsty murders.
Shane August, an undercover FBI Agent, is sent on assignment to Purgatory to infiltrate the vampire clan. He's an ancient, and the strongest of the strong when it comes to vampires. He needs to find out exactly what is going on in Purgatory.
What Shane finds there instead is Olivia, and his whole world is turned upside down, literally. She is like nothing he's ever known in his thousands of years of living, and all he knows is he must have her... before she completely blows his cover!
All she knows is that, *that* will never happen.
Or will it?
"She'd just feel much better about all of this if she had a stake in her hand." -Olivia
I can't wait until Book 3 in this series comes out! Cynthia Eden is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in this particular genre!
These books are stand alone, but i don't think you'll want to miss the first in this series, The Wolf Within, since a lot of the characters from that book play a part in this one, but it's not absolutely necessary. You won't feel like you've missed something if you only read this one.
Solid 4 Stars
June 11, 2014
Although it's been a little while since the first book in the Purgatory series came out I had no trouble at all jumping right back into the action and plot.
Readers don't have to read the first book to love this one, but you won't want to miss it because Cynthia Eden is just that good!
Taut action, a high steam factor and wonderful emotion pepper the pages of this latest offering and it was just the right length to tell the story without drawing out needless scenes or cutting things too short.
Dr. Olivia Maddox is able to trade on connections to find her way onto Purgatory. A high security prison island for paranormals that have gone bad. She is compelled to find out why some are at the mercy of their 'beasts' and why they cannot control themselves. She wants to help them and she has a lot at stake in finding out the answers.
Things quickly go awry when she finds that she has been targeted and forces are conspiring to make sure she doesn't make it out of Purgatory alive.
Shane is a very powerful, very bad vampire. A prisoner bound for Purgatory he and Olivia first meet while sharing the transport to the island prison. Olivia knows he is a dangerous temptation but finds herself unwillingly drawn to him.
Both are at the mercy of an explosive attraction that quickly burns out of control when the threat to Olivia's life becomes apparent.
On an island full of dangerous and powerful criminals Olivia will have to count on Shane to make it out alive.
However, all is not as it seems and the real danger may still be waiting...
Readers don't have to read the first book to love this one, but you won't want to miss it because Cynthia Eden is just that good!
Taut action, a high steam factor and wonderful emotion pepper the pages of this latest offering and it was just the right length to tell the story without drawing out needless scenes or cutting things too short.
Dr. Olivia Maddox is able to trade on connections to find her way onto Purgatory. A high security prison island for paranormals that have gone bad. She is compelled to find out why some are at the mercy of their 'beasts' and why they cannot control themselves. She wants to help them and she has a lot at stake in finding out the answers.
Things quickly go awry when she finds that she has been targeted and forces are conspiring to make sure she doesn't make it out of Purgatory alive.
Shane is a very powerful, very bad vampire. A prisoner bound for Purgatory he and Olivia first meet while sharing the transport to the island prison. Olivia knows he is a dangerous temptation but finds herself unwillingly drawn to him.
Both are at the mercy of an explosive attraction that quickly burns out of control when the threat to Olivia's life becomes apparent.
On an island full of dangerous and powerful criminals Olivia will have to count on Shane to make it out alive.
However, all is not as it seems and the real danger may still be waiting...
July 28, 2014
Our story begins with Dr. Olivia Maddox. Olivia is a psychologist with an interest in the things that go bump in the night, namely werewolves and vampires. She is sent to hell on earth, Purgatory Prison, to further her studies in werewolves and vampires whom have shed their humanity and bathed in human blood. Purgatory is not for the faint of heart. When she meets dangerous alpha vampire Shane on the ferry ride to the prison, she’s not exactly in Kansas anymore. Let sweet little Olivia has a secret of her own.. She’s not exactly human herself.
Shane is enthralled by Olivia as soon as he sets eyes on her. He knows that a beautiful woman like her should not be stepping one single foot in the prison. He knows he’ll have to protect anyway he can, but how can he do that when he himself is a prisoner. He knows that Olivia, much like him, is more than she appears on the outside. Is he willing to risk exposure of his undercover operation to save her and get himself killed in the process? Yes.. He is.
I received a copy of Marked by A Vampire from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Being a fan of Cynthia Eden’s already, I thought that reading a title from a new series should be a natural fit for me. I am humbled to say that I was right. While short in pages (158 pages to be exact), Eden has managed to narrate a tale so deeply complex that it should be a much larger page count book. While I read this as standalone, I would suggest reading the first book in the series as well. The story is riveting and will end too soon for you own tastes.
Shane is enthralled by Olivia as soon as he sets eyes on her. He knows that a beautiful woman like her should not be stepping one single foot in the prison. He knows he’ll have to protect anyway he can, but how can he do that when he himself is a prisoner. He knows that Olivia, much like him, is more than she appears on the outside. Is he willing to risk exposure of his undercover operation to save her and get himself killed in the process? Yes.. He is.
I received a copy of Marked by A Vampire from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Being a fan of Cynthia Eden’s already, I thought that reading a title from a new series should be a natural fit for me. I am humbled to say that I was right. While short in pages (158 pages to be exact), Eden has managed to narrate a tale so deeply complex that it should be a much larger page count book. While I read this as standalone, I would suggest reading the first book in the series as well. The story is riveting and will end too soon for you own tastes.
June 12, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I can always count on Cynthia Eden for a quick fun read with tons of paranormal sizzle and an addictive story. This book was no exception and even introduced me to a new world in the Purgatory series. I didn’t read the first book in this series, but I don’t think it hurt my enjoyment of this book at all.
Olivia is a woman who has interviewed all of the most deadly serial killers out there (a la Silence of the Lambs). She begs her way into Purgatory, the world’s only prison for paranormals, through her connections with an important political figure. Shane is a centuries old vampire who has volunteered to go into Purgatory undercover to pay back a blood debt. Neither of them expected the instant attraction and addiction to one another that blossomed the moment their eyes met. Of course, nothing goes right for them during their time in Purgatory, but it only draws them closer together.
This is a mix of a fated mate tale and a tale of paranormals discovering their true potential. The balance between smut, story, and action was really great and kept the pace moving quickly. I loved Shane and Olivia’s romance, which wonderfully lacked the typical dynamic in paranormal romance nowadays. This was a great, quick read that convinced me to add the rest of this series to my “to-read” list as it comes out. If you’ve never read a Cynthia Eden book, you should really give this one a try!
I can always count on Cynthia Eden for a quick fun read with tons of paranormal sizzle and an addictive story. This book was no exception and even introduced me to a new world in the Purgatory series. I didn’t read the first book in this series, but I don’t think it hurt my enjoyment of this book at all.
Olivia is a woman who has interviewed all of the most deadly serial killers out there (a la Silence of the Lambs). She begs her way into Purgatory, the world’s only prison for paranormals, through her connections with an important political figure. Shane is a centuries old vampire who has volunteered to go into Purgatory undercover to pay back a blood debt. Neither of them expected the instant attraction and addiction to one another that blossomed the moment their eyes met. Of course, nothing goes right for them during their time in Purgatory, but it only draws them closer together.
This is a mix of a fated mate tale and a tale of paranormals discovering their true potential. The balance between smut, story, and action was really great and kept the pace moving quickly. I loved Shane and Olivia’s romance, which wonderfully lacked the typical dynamic in paranormal romance nowadays. This was a great, quick read that convinced me to add the rest of this series to my “to-read” list as it comes out. If you’ve never read a Cynthia Eden book, you should really give this one a try!
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