Serena Zane

Thank you, Serena Zane, for sending me this story for an honest review.
Sonja���s husband, Ben, wants to add spice to their marriage by having an open relationship. She refuses, so he cheats on her and she decides to leave him. She goes to the Renaissance fair to get away for a while and decides to let loose and find a new, temporary beau. Sonja meets Will and they have explosive chemistry together.
I love the author���s description of the fair, period clothing and language, etc. The story was written in first person POV and in passive voice. Although I dislike use of passive voice, I enjoyed the first person narrative and I felt more connected with Sonja and I understood her actions better because of it. She's certainly a colorful, spirited person! Anyway, I was surprised that the story ended without a HEA or a HFN. In fact, in ended rather abruptly and left me wondering what happened to Sonja and Will, and even Ben. Personally, I think she'll become a happily single woman after the two weeks at the fair is over with.
I hope Ms. Zane expands this story or writes a sequel because I really want to know more. The characters were interesting, fun and the book was just a delight to read.
4 Stars.
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I did like the story. It is well written for such a short story. There is to be a second book A Cross To Bare. Since this is to be a series it would have been much better if there was more character development. I felt like I was thrown into the middle of the story. I like the little I know of Nikki, Damen, Jared, and Trevor. It has the feel of prequel novella. Bottom line is I'm glad I borrowed it. I actually think it's a 2.5 but gave a three because of the potential of the series.
http://darkerpassions.wordpress.com/… (more)

Stephanie Wills never expected her boyfriend to react so violently to the fact that she comes from a long line of vampire hunters. Deep inside, she was hoping he'd accept her for who she is, regardless of what her entire family does on the sidelines. Disappointment rises as Daniel breaks off their engagement so soon after he becomes privy to the secrets she's been hiding the entire time.

Mulling over her situation, she detests the fact that she'll be spending the holidays alone. Yet she tells herself that perhaps it's all for the best. Somehow, some day, she surmises, she'll find the man she's been waiting for.

When one of her dreams becomes a reality, Stephanie is thrown for a loop. The entire time she thought the man of her dreams was just a figment of her imagination. Called in to work to investigate a random murder, she begins to question everything she knows. All the while, she's hoping that the man she's begun to pine for is not involved.

Against her better judgment, she finds herself getting in touch with one of her family in hopes of unraveling the mysteries surrounding the case she's been given. Delving deeper into the murder, she discovers things she'd rather not know. Yet one thing is clear, she's falling head over heels with the vampire whose sole purpose is to please her.

I found this unique take on vampires to be very delightful. There were quite a few twists and turns that were very unexpected. I do think the end was a bit rushed, but it does leave the reader wanting to read more. Overall, I enjoyed it very much.… (more)

Anticipation bites deep within her as she thought about the one she's always loved. The Yule feast is her only opportunity to make her best friend notice her, once and for all. Yet she wonders if she'll actually succeed.

Taking the time to prepare herself for what's to come, she can't help but ponder whether she's making the right decision. Yet the heart always wants what it cannot have and she's determined to draw his gaze to hers one last time. Deep inside, she wants more from her best friend and is not content with their remaining as just friends.

Doubts cycle inside her head as she arrives at the feast in search of him. Everything about him draws him to her, something she can never deny. Taking a chance, she gives in to her desires. As she gives it all she's got, she realizes she never actually imagined having exactly what she's always wanted. Yet sometimes, good things come to those who wait.

While this is a short story, it was quite titillating. Serena built the story up very nicely and kept the pace consistent through all of it. The story itself was quite intriguing, even if it didn't have any character names. The end left me wanting to read more, though. Overall, it's a good read.… (more)