Trina M Lee

this is my second book for the month of June. I have fallowed this series from the beginning. I am a huge fan of Ms. Lee. this story isn't one of her best from this series. I was so excited to read it but it had a slow start for me.

This book is darker and grittier than previous books, but that is expected with Alexa being turned into a vampire. The battle between the dark and the light within Alexa is testing her mental state; and it shows in this book. The author does a fantastic job in show more describing the struggle that Alexa is going through. The reader can not only feel her pain and suffering but that of Arys and Kale. She also has to make decisions that not only affect her, but the ones around her.

This installment has everything. There are moments of sadness, madness, forgiveness and acceptance. There are plot twists and moments that will surprise the reader. Trina also updates the reader on Willow, Shaz, Jez, and Falon. These characters are an integrate part of Alexa's life and they need her, just as much as she needs them. I am looking forward to reading the next book and catching up with Alexa and everyone else. show less

Imagine receiving a nicely wrapped package and you are itching to discover what lays beyond the wrapping. However, when you peel away the pretty wrapping, your excitement dims because what you uncovered pales in comparison to the outer appearance. Well, this was my experience with Once Bitten by Trina M. Lee. Not that it was a bad book; it just did not live up to my expectations.

I had purchased the e-book awhile back and when I discovered the audio was available for review, I jumped at the show more opportunity.

Story
The story began on a high note, which fed my need for suspense and action. However, after the first chapter the pacing slowed to the point where it felt like a chore to continue. However, at around the sixty percent mark the story took a turn for the better, which had me hankering to learn more.

I found the mystery element intriguing and the big reveal at the end was quite the shocker. It proved heart breaking for Alexa and it was at this point, I found myself sympathizing with her.

I am not sure what to make of the romantic element. Even the heroine herself seemed confused. Caught between two men, the vampire with whom she had a metaphysical connection and the werewolf who has been her best friend for years. She cannot seem to decide as to whom she wants. Then there was her ex who came to her for help as he was framed for murder. Thankfully, there was no rekindling of romantic feelings here, as that would have been too much for me to handle. Another plus, is the fact the romance was not the driving force behind the plot.

World building
The world the author created needed to better developed. Its modern world where humans are not aware that of the supernatural beings exists. There is a wide variety of supernaturals. Alexa along with her team has the job punishing rogue supernaturals. I found nothing extraordinary or fascinating about the world.

Characters
The main character, Alexa, is a werewolf and huntress who possesses physic abilities. Turned as a teenager when a rogue werewolf attacked and slaughtered her family. Currently, an alpha for her own pack, a position she does not take lightly. Despite her being a kick butt heroine, I was not her biggest fan. I say this because her actions reeked of selfishness. Most of what she did was for her benefit, which was evident in her relationship with Arys and Shaz. When it came to grudges, she was the poster child. Her penchant for holding grudges shined through her relationship with her ex.

Shaz's character did not impress me. His feelings for Alexa made
made him blind to her faults. Their bond led towards the emotional rather than physical. Frankly, I think Alexa took him for granted and he allowed her free rein to do so.

Arys is the ultimate bad boy. Loved his portrayal in the story. A centuries old, who had his share of pain and heartache. He knows what he wants and goes after it with fire in his eyes. The raw power that Alexa exudes puts her on his radar and he is determined to share that power by whatever means.

Secondary Characters.
There were a few I found intriguing and would love to learn more about them. There is Jez, the wereleopard and the mysterious Lilah. They brought some life to the story.

Narration
Sarah Puckett narrated, and she did a splendid job. She did a great job with the voices of the characters. She helped me to get through the story as I enjoyed listening to her.

Conclusion/Recommendation
The story wrapped up nicely. I received answers to the burning questions raised in this installment. Overall, I found this to be an ok read. I own book 2, so I plan to read it to see if it gets better. show less

This series is killing me!!! Just keeps getting better. Though I must say, it messes with you emotionally! This one, has me so twisted, that I have no idea where the next book will go, and I don't know if I can stand the wait! Trina M Lee, is by far, one of the best supernatural story tellers, EVER! Please bring me some Kale back, I miss Him. I have to say Falon is a character that I am starting to like. I missed this series so this awesome installment was a great read.

Alexa is a werewolf, an assassin and has a very complicated love life (or lack of).
Alexa was bitten when she was 16. She was the only survivor of that fateful werewolf attack. She then met Raoul and became her pack leader and former lover. When she moved out of his property she met Veryl and took the job of eliminating werewolves and vampires alike for heinous crimes.

The characters: The vampires in this book actually drinks blood and kills their victims without any guilt nor whining. The show more werewolves need strenth replenishing by eating meat. Arys seems to be a pretty cool vampire. Sexy and dangerous and that power, he is certainly unique (and perfect for Alexa?). I immidiately labeled Shaz as lame, I might be biased because I prefer vampires more than werewolves, but really if you are to take a liking with an assassin you shouldn't be just a bartender, he should be in the action. As far as Alexa is concern, I don't understand why she's still putting up with Raoul's b.s and why does she always needs to explain herself to people. Her personality is confusing and sometimes irritating.

The plot: There is so many things that is happening in this book. First Raoul is being framed (supposedly) for killing her former lovers. Is he really not? If not him, then who? and why? Then Arys and Alexa finally gave in to the lust and had a mind blowing sex that short circuited his whole house as both of their powers merge. The aftermath was not too pretty their intercourse was beyond physical and is causing a problem. Then there was an issue of Arys ex-fiance wanting him exterminated. I feel for Alexa this two men are such pain. At the middle of the book, I changed my mind about Shaz, I am actually glad that he's just his glorious self and is always there for Alexa. Then there is the mysterious witch and part demon Lilah. What's her story? The way she got rid of the demon was way cool. The plot on this book kept me guessing and the pace a little slow but once you get to that turning point. It is unputdownable until you get your answers..

Dark, edgy and suspenseful. These are definitely not you high school supernaturals. Book two please... show less