It seems apropos to read a title called Biting Cold after getting over five inches of snow yesterday. I picked up the book in while waiting to get my hands on a copy of the latest book in the Chicagoland Vampires series, House Rules. Unfortunately, my streak of bad reading experiences continues. Instead of being a great read, Biting Cold was a biting dud. 

Description (from Goodreads): Turned into a vampire against her will, twenty-eight-year-old Merit found her way into the dark circle of Chicago’s vampire underground, where she learned there was more to supernaturals than met the eye—and more supernaturals than the public ever imagined.And not all the secrets she learned were for sharing—among humans or inhumans. Now Merit is on the hunt, charging across the stark American Midwest, tailing a rogue supernatural intent on stealing an ancient artifact that could unleash catastrophic evil on the world. But Merit is also the prey. An enemy of Chicagoland is hunting her, and he’ll stop at nothing to get the book for himself. No mercy allowed. No rules apply. No lives spared. The race is on.

Review: After having mixed feelings about Drink Deep, I was really looking forward to reading Biting Cold, the sixth book in the Chicagoland Vampire series. Unfortunately, Biting Cold didn't meet my expectations and for me, it lacked excitement and humor unlike the first four books in this series. Instead of filling in the plot holes and making sense of the illogical plot developments of Drink Deep, Biting Cold pretty much ignores them and focuses its attention to a new mystery revolving around the shady, mysterious, and powerful former mayor of Chicago, Seth Tate. Normally, I would have welcomed a new mystery with this story but I was left with so many questions after Drink Deep that I wanted answers and explanations. The explanations that we received just seem to patted down and well, anti-climatic after a huge ordeal in book four which left the fans of this series stunned.
  Though we are introduced to a new paranormal/supernatural creatures in this book, I felt myself losing interest with this book quickly and honestly, Seth Tate isn't really a fascinating character. Everything about Biting Cold felt repetitive. The sexual tension between Ethan and Merit which drives this series became dull and annoying. I couldn't help but roll my eyes and say, "Really?! We're going back to this after all that you both have gone through?" Ethan is as infuriating as ever and I wanted to hit him upside the head several times.
  As much as I like hanging around Ethan and Merit, I wanted to get back to the crew of awesome secondary characters. While they do make an appearance, their absence is well noted. Biting Cold does leave us with some questions as to what will happen with the political structure for the vampire houses. Even though I'm still curious to see what happens next in the series, I can wait a bit longer to read the next book. It just a shame to see a series that I really like take a nose dive. I really hope House Rules makes up for the last two books. Perhaps I should lower my expectations, but I'm sad to say that I'm just not as excited about this series as I use to be. 

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: There some language and a small sex scene. Recommended to mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: House Rules (Chicagoland Vampires #7) by Chloe Neill, Jane Yellowrock series by Faith Hunter, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs, Greywalker by Kat Richardson

  Today is the last day in the Tempting Tuesday read along event. I would like to thank again the incredible Chloe Neil for writing her awesome urban fantasy series Chicagoland Vampires and to my fabulous co-hosts, Jenny, Tina, and Missie. Ladies, we must do this again! A big very big thank you goes out to the participants who have made our Tuesday extra special by joining in the discussion. As promised, today we have a guest post from Chloe and the winners for the awesome prize pack.Without further ado, here is a letter directly from Chloe to her readers. I hope you enjoy!












































  

Congrats to the winners!

 Welcome to the fourth week and final discussion of the Some Girls Bite Read-Along! For those of you who don't know, the fabulous ladies behind Tina's Book Reviews, Superntural Snark, The Unread Reader and myself are hosting a read-along of the first book of Chloe Neill's outstanding Chicagoland Vampires urban fantasy series. For all the details about the event and our grand prize giveaway, be sure and check out the introductory post HERE.
   Missie from The Unread Reader is hosting the discussion this week so head over to Missie's blog to link up your posts. Check back next week with a very special guest post from Chloe Neil and the announcement of our giveaway! I would like to thank Ms. Neil for supporting our read along of her awesome book series and to my fellow hostesses who made a newbie read along member feel so welcome. Thank you, ladies! Without further ado, here are my answers to this week's questions

   Missie from The Unread Reader will be discussing the last section of the book so be sure to check her blog to find out next week's discussion questions. I am hosting next week and will be covering Chapters 9-12. Use the linky below to post up your answers!



 Catcher and Ethan share some personality traits. What makes Mallory, Merit, and even us readers attracted to these guys? Would you date/mate with someone like these guys in real life?


  There is something so attractive about confidence, swagger, and mystery that I think both Catcher and Ethan exude. There are so many layers to their character and personality that you want to unveil and discover. Their imperfections make them approachable and easily to relate to. Now would I date these guys if they were real, no. Life is already stressful and why would you complicate it more with a high maintenance guy? I would most likely go for Jonah who appears later in the series.

In Chapter 9 we learn of another murder. Do you see any patterns with the previous murder and Merit's attack? Do you have any guesses as to who is responsible and the motive behind the murders?


  Well since I've already read the series up to date, I already know the party who is responsible but I didn't catch the commonalities of the murderers with Merit's attack during my first read. I don't want to spoil the ending but I really don't think it's a coincidence. As for the motive, I think it's a political power struggle amongst the paranormals and humans.

The commendation is my favorite moment in the book and a significant event in Merit's life. She has finally come to terms that she is a Cadogan vampire. Were you surprised at all that Merit resisted Ethan's call and that he made her a Sentinel? Do you think she'll do well in this position? Why or why not?

I actually suspected that Merit would resist Ethan's call. There is something off about how she was changed and this issue will be addressed more closely in the second book. I was, however, really surprised that Ethan made Merit a Sentinel. When I think of Merit, I don't think guard. I actually envisioned her working more on the behind of the scene of the Cadogan House. As to her performance as a Sentinel, I think it's still a bit early to tell. She does seem to find and work with clues quite nicely. I think she definitely has potential in doing really well.

Loyalty is a reoccurring theme throughout the book and much of this series. Why is it so important to Ethan that he needs Merit's allegiance? Is it solely a Master and Sentinel thing or does it imply something else?
As a head master of a house and his many years as a vampire, it undeniable that Ethan had issues with people betraying him and of course now that Merit is a Sentinel who has sworn she defends her house and leader with her life, it is required of her but there is a part of me that thinks the loyalty goes beyond the job requirement. It sounds as if it's a challenge to Merit and to himself in what could be a blueprint of what could whatever it is between them. It does seem inevitable that something between will happen. We're just waiting to see what and when.

If you had the opportunity to sit down with Ethan, Merit, Mallory, and Catcher for a bite to eat like in the beginning of Chapter 12, what questions would you ask them at this point of the story? 

I have lots of questions for these characters so I'll just limit them to one per person:

Ethan: Of all the vamps at your disposal, why in the world did you choose Amber?

Merit: Can I borrow your katana sometime?

Mallory: Would you be willing to be my personal shopper?

Catcher: Where do you get your awesome T-shirts?

Welcome to the second week of the Some Girls Bite Read-Along! For those of you who don't know, the fabulous ladies behind Tina's Book Reviews, Superntural Snark, The Unread Reader and myself are hosting a read-along of the first book of Chloe Neill's outstanding Chicagoland Vampires urban fantasy series. Each week we'll pose and answer five questions about the book and then hop around to the other blogs who have signed up to check out everyone's answers! For all the details about the event and our grand prize giveaway, be sure and check out the introductory post HERE.

Tina is the host this week, so be sure and visit her site to link up your posts and join in the discussion! I will be hosting next week and you can find my discussion questions at the bottom of my post today. I will have a linky next Tuesday so you can post up your answers.






In what is a make you blush, steamy scene in the book- Chapter 5 has Ethan and Merit sharing a few hot moments after Merit's hunger strikes...that is until Ethan becomes a total cad! What do you think of him so far? Strong, masterful vampire, conceited playboy.....lover boy in disguise?
  Ethan is an enigma, isn't he? He is undeniably gorgeous and arrogant, but there is definitely more to him as the series continues. It's hard to be mad at the guy. I mean he's been a vampire for over 300 years and can't remember what his humanity feels like, which is why I think there's a strong attraction between him and Merit, who has just been turned. As a side note, Katy Perry's song Hot n' Cold  reminds me a lot of Ethan's sudden mood swings.

Merit and Mallory begin some major training in these next few chapters, resulting in cool Katana Sword facts and Ninja moves. What is the most physically challenging or adrenaline fueled event/activity you have participated in?
I think the most grueling moment for me is fasting during Ramadan while working 10 nonstop hours during the high school's registration. For those of who don't know, Ramadan is a month that Muslims fast (no food, no drink including water) from sunrise to sunset. It's a month of reflection, spiritual reawakening, and being grateful for what you have.

Mallory and Catcher have sparks so intense they almost fly off the page.....what do you think of this cozy couple? Did you like the insta-love between them? Do they add to the story?
I know I talk about how annoying insta-love can be in YA, but I really don't mind it as much on the adult fiction level mainly because I've seen authors either build that moment until the two characters get together or in the case of Mallory and Catcher, explain why these two work so well. I do think Catcher and Mallory add to the story and may even give us a hint if something becomes of Merit and Ethan.

Lets talk Bff's....Mallory is hands down a terrific friend to Merit, the girls relationship is real, down to earth and fun....not to mention hysterical. What is your favorite memory or favorite thing to do with your bff? Feel free to share pics!

My BFF and I had planned on going to see the movie Troy (the one with Brad Pitt as Achilles). I didn't have a car so she drove over to my apartment in Chicago and then we got to chatting as I did a really quick search on Mapquest to get directions for a theater near by, but we didn't really read them to see if they made sense. As the movie time got closer, we jumped into her car and ended up driving circles on Lake Shore Drive because we couldn't find the exit for the movie theater. We actually ended up having lunch at Ed Debevics. When Troy finally came on DVD, we did a girls night out and watch it. It was horrible and ridiculous. We ended up mocking the movie while we watched it. Perhaps our getting lost was a sign!

Things are starting to heat up in the mystery department...the set up at Red, Morgan's flirty appearance.... Catchers vague answers......as correlation day gets closer for Merit do you think someone is out to get her...or maybe recruit her to another house? Or PS- feed her some more food...because goodnight this girl likes to eat!!! 

Ah, Morgan. You know, I thought was kinda nice and he's definitely has a thing for Merit but I'm not  really feeling it between them. It seems like a one-sided thing.  As a side note, I love that Merit loves food. Finally, a woman who has an appetite and not ashamed of it. I just wished I had her metabolism!


1. Catcher and Ethan share some personality traits. What makes Mallory, Merit, and even us readers attracted to these guys? Would you date/mate with someone like these guys in real life?

2. In Chapter 9 we learn of another murder. Do you see any patterns with the previous murder and Merit's attack? Do you have any guesses as to who is responsible and the motive behind the murders?

3. The commendation is my favorite moment in the book and a significant event in Merit's life. She has finally come to terms that she is a Cadogan vampire. Were you surprised at all that Merit resisted Ethan's call and that he made her a Sentinel? Do you think she'll do well in this position? Why or why not?

4. Loyalty is a reoccurring theme throughout the book and much of this series. Why is it so important to Ethan that he needs Merit's allegiance? Is it solely a Master and Sentinel thing or does it imply something else?

5. If you had the opportunity to sit down with Ethan, Merit, Mallory, and Catcher for a bite to eat like in the beginning of Chapter 12, what questions would you ask them at this point of the story?

  Welcome to the first week of Tempting Tuesday, where we discuss Some Girls Bite, the first book in Chloe Neil's awesome series Chicagoland Vampires. Today we will talk about the first four chapters of the book. The discussion questions were provided by Jenny at Supernatural Snark.



  Let’s say tomorrow a “vampire manifesto” as Merit calls it runs in newspapers across the country announcing their existence. How do you think you would react? If you were hesitant to believe initially, what would it take to convince you they were real?



   I've read many paranormal books featuring vampires and have always thought of them as fictitious creatures so in reality, I would be skeptical until I actually found proof like people with bites on their neck, see real fangs in the mouth, etc. Although how awesome would it be to see your favorite vampire walking around?


  Since being turned into a vampire means complete removal from your former life and a new job serving your House in some capacity, what do you think you would miss most about the life you live now?


  My freedom and my family. I want to have my options open and make my own decisions. Limits as to how I can live my life is constraining and makes me feel like I'm living in a cage and not seeing my family at anytime of the day stinks.

  What are your first impressions of Merit and how she’s handling all the changes in her life?


I really like Merit. She's smart and has a great sense of humor. She's definitely a character that I would love to hang out with. Losing control on your life is what really scares me and I can really relate to all the emotions that Merit is feeling now. Given the severity of her situation, I think she's handling it well. I understand that she was changed in a life and death situation but its still wrong. I've read lots of reviews that said that Merit was too whiny in the book and she should get over her change, but I don't think that's very easy to do. She has absolutely no interest in vampires and being turned at all. She made her own plans in life but what happened to her threw a wrench into that future and now she has to start from scratch.



  When you first read the description of Ethan, what actor/model/person you know pops into your head as the perfect embodiment of him? Feel free to include pictures ;-)



I'm horrible when it comes to visualizing a real life actor/model/person with some characters. Some characters are easy to do while others are impossible. I don't have one specific person for Ethan, but Travis Fimmel, from the short lived tv show called The Beast, is pretty close as to how I picture him in my head. Although Charlie Hunnam from Sons of Anarchy is also a great choice too.


Do you think Merit’s anger at Ethan himself, not the situation, is justified? 

 I have a hard time answering this question because I already read the other books which explained this situation a bit more clearly, however, my initial reaction is that yes she is justified. Anyway you look at the situation, he is the one responsible for her change and his outrageous demands of her quickly trying to assimilate to his lifestyle doesn't earn him any bonus points. He is infuriating, arrogant, and cold. As you begin to learn about Ethan, you realize that he doesn't do anything without working a few paces ahead. He is strategist and everything he does is for his House. If he had shown some emotion of his decision to her change her or even understanding of her roller-coaster of emotions, I wouldn't be so severe with Ethan.

   Tina at Tina's Books Reviews has the questions for next week. Tina will be covering Chapters 5-8 at her blog. Here are her questions:

   If you take a twenty-seven year-old grad-student-turned-vampire with a penchant for sarcasm, add it to the drama of being turned without permission, then factor in an arrogant but absurdly attractive Master vampire who's unused to having his buttons pushed, what do you get? Well, I'll tell you. You get Chloe Neill's Some Girls Bite, the first book in her hugely entertaining Chicagoland Vampires series!

  The lovely Jenny at Supernatural Snark, Tina at Tina's Book Reviews, Missie at The Unread Reader, and I are going to be hosting a read-along for Some Girls Bite starting January 3rd and running every Tuesday through January 31st, and we cannot tell you how excited we would be if you guys would join us! For those of you who are unfamiliar with how a read-along works, fear not, it's really easy. Sign up using the linky at Jenny's blog (we'd love it if you could grab a button and do a short post announcing your participation to help spread the word), buy or borrow a copy of Some Girls Bite, and take a look at the questions for chapters 1-4 listed at the bottom of this post. Those five questions will be discussed at Supernatural Snark to kick off the event on January 3rd. Simply put a post together wherein you answer the questions and then go to Jenny's blog to link up your answers so that everyone participating can hop around, read, and comment like a giant virtual book club. Fun right? Right ;-)

Below is the schedule for the event so you can follow along. The second five discussion questions will be posted on Tina's blog on the 3rd so you'll have plenty of time to answer the questions before we all post again on the 10th.


January 3rd - Chapters 1-4 (Jenny at Supernatural Snark) 
January 10th - Chapters 5-8 (Tina at Tina's Book Reviews)
January 17th - Chapters 9-12 (HERE)
January 24th - Chapters 13-15 + epilogue (Missie at The Unread Reader)
January 31st - Special guest post by Chloe Neill and our grand prize giveaway! 




Everyone who signs up for the read-along and participates each week will be entered in our grand prize giveaway, with the winner announced on each of our blogs on the 31st. The prize pack (pictured below) includes a Sentinel 04 t-shirt, a copy of the second book in the series Friday Night Bites, and a copy of Chloe's newest release in her young adult series Charmfall. In addition to the grand prize winner, two additional winners will also receive copies of Charmfall.  International participants: The giveaway is open to you as well (as long as The Book Depository delivers to your country), though we will be substituting the t-shirt and Charmfall for the next 2 books in the Chicagoland Vampires series after Friday Night Bites, so you will receive Friday Night Bites, Twice Bitten, and Hard Bitten.


  If you're not familiar with this series, it's an adult urban fantasy series, but I beg all of you wonderful readers who typically stick to young adult fiction exclusively not to write this one off. It's ripe with romantic tension and has loads of humor, and I honestly cannot recommend it enough! Have I convinced you yet? No? You need more? Well, it just so happens that Ethan Sullivan (Master of Cadogan House) was one of Jenny's past book boyfriends, so I leave you with the below image as my final attempt to get you on board (you can see the full post and read some snippets HERE):







Sure, the life of a graduate student wasn't exactly glamorous, but it was Merit's. She was doing fine until a rogue vampire attacked her. But he only got a sip before he was scared away by another bloodsucker-and this one decided the best way to save her life was to make her the walking undead.

Turns out her savior was the Master vampire of Cadogan House. Now she's traded sweating over her thesis for learning to fit in at a Hyde Park mansion full of vamps loyal to Ethan "Lord o' the Manor" Sullivan. Of course, as a tall, green-eyed, four-hundred- year-old vampire, he has centuries' worth of charm, but unfortunately he expects her gratitude- and servitude. But an inconvenient sunlight allergy and Ethan's attitude are the least of her concerns. Someone's still out to get her. Her initiation into Chicago's nightlife may be the first skirmish in a war-and there will be blood. 

Here are Jenny's discussion questions for January 3rd:




1. Let’s say tomorrow a “vampire manifesto” as Merit calls it runs in newspapers across the country announcing their existence. How do you think you would react? If you were hesitant to believe initially, what would it take to convince you they were real?

2. Since being turned into a vampire means complete removal from your former life and a new job serving your House in some capacity, what do you think you would miss most about the life you live now?

3. What are your first impressions of Merit and how she’s handling all the changes in her life?

4. When you first read the description of Ethan, what actor/model/person you know pops into your head as the perfect embodiment of him? Feel free to include pictures ;-)

5. Do you think Merit’s anger at Ethan himself, not the situation, is justified?




Please feel free to grab a button for the event and we look forward to having you join us in January!

  After reading the jaw dropping cliffhanger of Hard Bitten, I was counting the days until the release of Drink Deep. In the meantime, I formulated theories with a coworker who is reading the series with me during lunch breaks. Lots of questions were raised and I wondered how Neill was going to tackle them all in the next book.

Description (from Goodreads): Clouds are brewing over Cadogan House, and recently turned vampire Merit can't tell if this is the darkness before the dawn or the calm before the storm. With the city itself in turmoil over paranormals and the state threatening to pass a paranormal registration act, times haven't been this precarious for vampires since they came out of the closet. If only they could lay low for a bit, and let the mortals calm down. That's when the waters of Lake Michigan suddenly turn pitch black-and things really start getting ugly.
  Chicago's mayor insists it's nothing to worry about, but Merit knows only the darkest magic could have woven a spell powerful enough to change the very fabric of nature. She'll have to turn to friends old and new to find out who's behind this, and stop them before it's too late for vampires and humans alike.

Review: Drink Deep is really hard for me to review because of my conflicted feelings about the book. There were lot of things that I really enjoyed, which added to the story. There were other parts that I thought weren't fully flushed and incredibly rushed at the end. I'll try my best and highlight both the strength and weaknesses of the book. 
   Drink Deep is entertaining and full of little twists and surprises that kept me turning the pages. Neil has created a new mystery where no one seems to know what is going on, which builds tension and the right amount of suspense. Magic is unbalanced and the supernaturals are blaming each other for the causes. Merit is on the case to clear the vampires' reputation. During Merit's investigation, we learn more about the lesser known paranormal creatures such as the nymphs and the fairies, which I found interesting. I always love learning new tidbits in Neil's intricate world.
  After the devastating events that left Merit shattered, it was nice to see her back on her feet. She could have easily wallowed and whined her way throughout the book, but I'm glad to have old Merit back. Of course she is still in pain and trying to wrap her head around what happen, but I'm glad that her life isn't on pause. 
  I also enjoyed learning about Jonah, who was an important side character in the last two books. We get to see him in action. He is smart, witty, and incredibly good looking. He knows his place and doesn't push. I wasn't quite sure of Jonah before this book, but I grew to like him. 
  Though I was enthralled by Drinking Deep, the book is not up to par with the other books in the series. I actually think in some respects that it is the weakest book in the series thus far. The book came across a little bit as filler or even a transition book. While the mystery had me guessing for a good chunk of the book, I thought it was too conveniently solved at the end. I'm still wondering how all the pieces come together actually. Some of my favorite characters seem to adopt new and unwelcoming personality changes. The main question that all readers asked of Neill is answered yet I felt it was rushed and not really rewarding (I can't really complain all that much. It was nice to see.). Overall the plot arc of the book isn't integral to the series, except for the last few chapters. When I finished the book, I'm still left with questions, but I'm looking forward to the adventure that Neill is setting us up for in Biting Cold and hopefully a return the Chicagoland Vampire normalcy that I can expect.
 
Rating: 3.5

Words of Caution: There is some language and allusions to sex. Recommended for mature teen readers and adults.

If you like this book try: Biting Cold by Chloe Neil (Chicagoland Vampires #6), Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep, Cassandra Palmer series by Karen Chance, Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, Kate Daniel series by Ilona Andrews, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs

 I told myself that I wasn't going anywhere near Hard Bitten, the fourth book of the Chicagoland Vampires, because of its supposedly jaw dropping cliffhanger. So what do you do when someone tells you no? You do it anyway. Thank goodness I don't have to wait too long to find out what happens next!

Description: Times are bleak for vampires in Chicago. Ever since their presence coupled by other paranormals have announced, humans have been rallying against supernaturals. What's not helping is a recent report about a violent vampire attack that has left three women missing.  Mayor Tate calls Merit and Ethan to a clandestine meeting and tells them about a violent vamp attack that has left three women missing. His message is simple: get your House in order or else.
  Upholding to her vows to protect her house and master, Sentinel Merit needs to get to the bottom of this crime, but it doesn't help that she can't tell who's on her side. So she secretly calls in a favors from various contacts to get information on the attack. Merit soon finds herself in a complicated mess and discover things that will change her forever.


Review: While I liked the first three books of the Chicagoland Vampire series, Hard Bitten is my favorite so far. Unlike the other books, Hard Bitten is much darker and serious in tone. We've watched Merit train as a new vampire and learning about her role as a sentinel. She's sought advise from her other House members and various other networks. I loved how her training wheels have come off in this book and for once she is truly independent and doing her duty. This is a big step for Merit, who has emphasized time and again that she didn't choose to be a vampire. In Hard Bitten Merit doesn't seek approval but rather calls the shots and must deal with the consequences of her actions.
  All of Neil's trademarks are evident in this latest installment. The snarky dialogue was a delight to read. Ethan garnered the right amount of sympathy along with irritation which makes him so.....Ethan. Recapping of the past books was kept to a minimum, so I do recommend reading this series from the beginning if you are interested. The journey to this book is so worth it. The pacing was smooth and quick, with every chapter offering progress. I couldn't put this book down. If I wasn't reading it, then I was trying to figure out the criminal's motivations. Neil had me guessing to the very end. The big reveal was shocking in several ways. Neill showed excellent timing and skill in giving out the details while still withholding one or two very important puzzle pieces until the very end.
  With each book we learn more information about the other paranormals that live in Chicago. We've learned about the vampires in Some Girls Bite and Friday Night Bites, shapeshifters in Twice Bitten, and now in Hard Bitten we get a little more information on magic, which makes me hopeful that the sorcerer contingent will be coming soon. We also catch glimpses of Gabriel as well as members of other supernatural communities. I like how these characters reappear throughout the series and not just used conveniently as a plot device and completely forgotten once they served their purpose. 
  I know I keep mentioning about the setting, but as a resident of Chcago I can't help it. It's clear that Neil’s fondness and knowledge of its many neighborhoods, its people, and its traditions is genuine. I think it would be awesome to do a Chicagoland Vampire city tour. I can't help but get hungry while reading the books as Merit mentions her favorite foods. I'm completely jealous that Merit can eat all she wants without worrying about her health.
  I experienced a wide range of emotion while reading this book, but the last page had me stunned. I was so flummoxed that I had to read the last 5 pages at least three times. Even then I called my girl friend who is reading the series along with me to see if I had a defected copy. I think my words were: "What the hell? Did that just happen?" Actually, they were a lot worse than that. *ahem* I do get emotional while reading. ;) And that is when you know you are reading a great series: you are surprised at how stealthily these characters become a piece of your heart.
  I don’t know where the series is going at this stage, though I have some probable theories. Like many readers, I felt like the carpet I was standing on was whipped out underneath me, leaving me in utter disbelief but I think I can trust Neil to tell the right story for Merit. There’s a lot of fodder for speculation after this one as the events are game-changing. I know many are doubting to continue the series after this book, but I'm ready for the ride.


Rating: 5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some strong language and violence. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Drink Deep by Chloe Neil (Chicagoland Vampires #5), Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep, Cassandra Palmer series by Karen Chance, Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, Kate Daniel series by Ilona Andrews, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs

  If you thought about jumping into the urban fantasy genre and wasn't sure where to start, I would suggest picking up Chloe Neil's Chicagoland Vampire series. The series has a great blend of humor, action, mystery, and romance. There are currently 4 books out right now with the fifth book coming out in less than 2 weeks. Here is the reading order, which I highly suggest you follow, to prepare you for book five: Some Girls Bite, Friday Night Bites, Twice Bitten, and Hard Bitten.

Description (From Goodreads):  Shapeshifters from across the country are convening in the Windy City, and as a gesture of peace, Master Vampire Ethan Sullivan has offered their leader a very special bodyguard: Merit, Chicago's newest vampire. Merit is supposed to protect the Alpha, Gabriel Keene-and to spy for the vamps while she's at it. Oh, and luckily Ethan's offering some steamy, one-on-one combat training sessions to help her prepare for the mission.
  Unfortunately, someone is gunning for Gabriel, and Merit soon finds herself in the line of fire. She'll need all the help she can get to track down the would-be assassin, but everywhere she turns, there are rising tensions between supernaturals-not least between her and a certain green-eyed, centuries-old master vampire.

Review: Twice Bitten picks up shortly where Friday Night Bites left its readers. We find out who was sending Merit those mysterious unsigned invitations, which sets up a really cool plotline. Unlike the first two books that solely focused on the houses of vampires stationed in Chicago, we get a sneak peak into the shape shifters. The shifters are coming to town and Ethan tells Merit he needs her help in providing security for them during their convocation. His hope is to convince the shifters to stay and become allies. A pending yet inevitable war is on the horizon so an alliance amongst vampires and shifters may be fruitful to all involved. Working as Sentinel for the Cadogan House, Merit continues her training as she excels at her sword work but still struggles with sparring.
  The romantic tension between Merit and Ethan really heats up in this book. I'm not really sure what to call their connection, but it is definitely entertaining and frustrating to watch and observe especially as Ethan seems to slowly break his defenses in one moment and then quickly builds them back up the next. I couldn't help but feel emotional whiplash in this book as these two try to figure out what to do with themselves.
  As I mentioned before, I love Merit, our heroine who is snarky, smart, honorable, and loyal, but most of all she doesn't let her world crumble over a guy. She makes mistakes and picks herself up from the ground when she falls. I enjoyed seeing her grow as a character over the course of the series. She starts as a grad student with a closely defined, much smaller world outlook. After she is converted, her world becomes much bigger and she grows to fit into it without changing who she is.
   I also continue to love the secondary characters in this series. The relationships in this series are organic which make them real to the reader. I actually picture them chatting and fighting, which doesn't happen a lot when I read paranormal stories. I really enjoyed how we got to know some important background information about Ethan, which gives us a little understanding how his brain works. Ethan is one of the rare love interests that I simultaneously hate and love, which I think speaks volume of how far he is removed from his humanity. 
  The world building continues to be one of the strengths of this series. We learn a few more tidbits of the vampire lifestyle in this book. We also see how sorcery magic works, as well as an in-depth introduction to shapeshifters--how they are organized, their magic, their politics, etc. I have to be bias and say how I absolutely love Neil for using Chicago as the backdrop to her series. The touches of real-life Chicago and the city's culture add color and depth to the series. 
   I know that there is a huge cliffhanger that awaits me when I pick up book four, Hard Bitten. I told myself that I would read the next installment as the release date of book 5 approaches (Nov. 1st) but I don't think I can wait that long.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is a semi-explicit sex scene, strong language, and violence. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Hard Bitten (Chicagoland Vampires #4) by Chloe Neil, Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs, Kate Daniel series by Ilona Andrews, Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead

 With the fifth Chicagoland Vampire book, Drinking Deep, comes out next month, I'm trying to catch up on this awesome series. The Chicagoland Vampire series is a must read for those who like feisty and strong heroines, great world building, humor, and steamy romantic tension. I just finished the second book in the series, Friday Night Bites, and really enjoyed it.

Description (from Amazon): Ten months after vampires revealed their existence to the mortals of Chicago, they're enjoying a celebrity status usually reserved for the Hollywood elite. But should people learn about the Raves-mass feeding parties where vampires round up humans like cattle-the citizens will start sharpening their stakes.
  So now it's up to the new vampire Merit to reconnect with her upper class family and act as liaison between humans and bloodsuckers, and keep the more unsavory aspects of the vampire lifestyle out of the media. But someone doesn't want peace between them-someone with an ancient grudge...

Review: Friday Night Bites begins about a month after the events of the first book. Neil does a good job in recapping in the first few chapters that new readers to this series will appreciate. I, however, think you would get a better appreciation for the characters if you read the first book.
  Merit is still struggling with her transition to a vampire, but things are getting worse now because almost every single relationship in her life is undergoing major changes. Her best friend, Mallory, is caught up in her own identity crisis. It was painful to watch these friends who are more like sisters slowly begin to drift apart because they belong to different worlds. I really hope this change is temporary because I really the bond that Merit and Mallory share. Merit is trying to adjust to her new life as a member of one of Chicago's most elite vampire houses. She is recruited to solve a new mystery by using her well known family connections. What is distressing Merit the most is hiding her dark secret- the fact that she feels separate from her inner vampire and has to spend a lot of energy trying to control it.
   Unlike the first book, the action and mystery takes a slight back seat as the character development and relationships are explored, which is not to say the book is boring. Friday Night Bites still contains all the reasons why I enjoyed the first book so much: wonderful characterization and character development, interesting plot and world building, humor, and crackling romantic tension. What is even better is that the book ends without a major cliffhanger but more of a lead into the next book in the series.
  I absolutely love Merit. She is a character that I wish I could be: feisty, strong, smart yet not immune to vulnerabilities and self doubt that plagues all of us. The portrayal of Merit's pain and struggle is both sensitive and sympathetic. For once, I couldn't help but nod my head in agreement as Merit made her decisions instead of throwing the book across the room due to the heavy handed melodrama that is usually found in paranormal books. What is remarkable is that Merit can call herself out when she is being unreasonable and for the most part can admit to it. 
 Merit's relationship with Ethan has grown even more complex. It's hard to give their relationship a name: boss and employer? friends? would be lovers? Regardless it is very entertaining yet frustrating to watch because these two are clearly attracted to one another. I found myself alternately wishing she would just realize how destructive their attraction was, and hoping that maybe things would work out.
  I still have a hard time to pinpoint my exact feelings for Ethan. He is distant, cold, and definitely calculating but you know there is something more to him beneath his hard exterior. He has his small moments where we get a peak at the real him, the human Ethan, but they are gone in a blink of an eye. I think Merit feels the same way about Ethan, which makes it hard for me to not feel offended on her behalf for the way Ethan treats her most of the time but at the same time I can't help but wonder what will happen with their relationship and whether or not they will let that relationship form.
  There is more plotting and intrigue in Friday Night Bites than action scenes mainly because there are many mysteries left to unravel. With each book we learn something new about the Chicagoland universe and the various political figures.  I can't wait to find out what happens next in the third book!

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Some strong language and violence. Recommended for mature teens and adults.

If you like this book try: Twice Bitten (Chicagoland Vampire #3) by Chloe Neil, Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs

  I've had the Chicagoland Vampire series by Chloe Neil on my to be read pile for quite a few years. At the time, I had just finished reading a slew of vampire books, both good and bad, either while the Twilight Saga was on going and/or had just finished. Since most of the books had the same cookie cutter format, I got burnt out in the genre and had to move on to something new. There are currently 4 books out in the Chicagoland Vampire series, with the fifth book coming out in November. After reading several great reviews from trusty bloggers, I thought to give this series a shot and I'm so glad that I did.

Description (from Goodreads):  Sure, the life of a graduate student wasn't exactly glamorous, but it was Merit's. She was doing fine until a rogue vampire attacked her. But he only got a sip before he was scared away by another bloodsucker-and this one decided the best way to save her life was to make her the walking undead.
  Turns out her savior was the master vampire of Cadogan House. Now she's traded sweating over her thesis for learning to fit in at a Hyde Park mansion full of vamps loyal to Ethan "Lord o' the Manor" Sullivan. Of course, as a tall, green-eyed, four-hundred- year-old vampire, he has centuries' worth of charm, but unfortunately he expects her gratitude- and servitude. But an inconvenient sunlight allergy and Ethan's attitude are the least of her concerns. Someone's still out to get her. Her initiation into Chicago's nightlife may be the first skirmish in a war-and there will be blood.

Review: Some Girls Bite is a entertaining, smart, sexy, and delightful read. I was completely sucked in right away. This is definitely a book where you want to put up the "Do Not Disturb, I'm Reading" sign. Yes, it's that good and now I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to read this series!
  As the series title suggests, this series takes place in Chicago. Since I live in the Chicagoland area and lived in the actual city for several years, I know the area where most of the action takes place. The attention to the architecture, sports, culture, and dialogue of the Windy City makes it obvious that Neil knows the city really well. I loved how the city became a character itself in the book. 
   Unlike many paranormal books I've read, our heroine, Merit, does not choose to be a vampire nor does she really have any desire to become a creature of the night. She is changed and given a second chance at life. Though she's not happy with the changes in her life, she adjusts with as much dignity as she can muster. I actually liked how Merit did some soul searching and not immediately accept her new identity. She had everything from her normal life taken away from her and was within her rights  to be completely upset by it. I know I would feel the same if I was in her situation. While some readers disliked Merit for whining too much in the first half of  the book, I actually thought it made her believable and endearing. Merit deals with her problems intelligently and confidently, though she may be unaware of the taboos she crosses. As you can tell, I loved Merit right away. It is so refreshing to read a character so mature and who holds herself up with grace. She is definitely far from perfect, but nonetheless a character that I would want as a best friend.
   I also enjoyed meeting Ethan Sullivan, the 400 year old vampire and Master of the House of Cadogan, who turned Merit into a vampire. Ethan is incredibly sexy, an enigma that is hard to figure out. I think the best way to describe would be a male personification of Pandora's box. So tempting to open yet you are terrified about what demons that are stored inside. Due to his age and his political ranking, Ethan is not prone to easily accept emotions and humanity. He is constantly thinking as a political figure, using his people in ways that are most helpful to his House. 
   I loved watching Ethan and Merit interact. There is obvious attraction between both of them, however, Merit does not quickly submit to Ethan. In fact, she constantly questions whether he is a good part of her life, how her relationship with him might change her, and most importantly whether she wants to change. Despite whatever role Merit plays, she doesn't see herself as Ethan's subordinate and she stands up to him in numerous occasions much to his frustration. This kind of self reflection was an absolute delight.
  In addition to Merit and Ethan, there are several secondary characters like Mallory, Merit's best friend who is more like a sister, and the mercurial Catcher Bell that are integral to the story and move the plot forward. Each of them come alive and add something to the story. The characters work well together and balance each other out quite well. Their banter is hilarious and makes them appealing, it's clearly evident that they have an affinity towards one another. Neil gives them vulnerabilities that mirrors our own which makes them not only more human but also relate-able and approachable. None of the characters are absolutely good or bad, but each contain shades of gray that makes us ponder when they do something that is completely unexpected.
   The political maneuvering between the supernaturals, humans, and other various groups is interesting and thoughtfully executed. I loved how the vampire houses, which are very much like college fraternities in a way, use the feudal system as their political and social structure. I've never seen that before. Neil sets a good foundation as to the origin of the Houses and their rules. I'm definitely hooked and want to know more as we discover a great battle is now brewing.    
    Readers looking for a kick-butt heroines and sexy male leads with lots of snark and action should not miss this series. I'm already itching to read the next book!
 
Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There are some sex scenes in the book and strong language. Recommended for mature teen readers and up.

If you like this book try: Friday Night Bites (Chicagoland Vampire #2) by Chloe Neil, Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead, Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris, Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews, Fray by Joss Whedon, Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs