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Blood Magic #1
Nightfall
Tegan encounters all kinds of crazies working the night shift at a 24-hour grocery store. None of them, however, have anything on the handsome stranger who comes in one night and helps her fend off an armed robber. He looks the thief directly in the eye and without confrontation convinces him to turn around and walk out the door.
Tegan has never seen anything like it, nor does she understand why he then lays those mesmerising eyes on her and tells her to forget they ever met. She shrugs it off as just another weird night shift encounter, until the following evening when her best friend produces free passes to a new club in the city. Tegan agrees to go and is pleasantly surprised by the tasteful, classy décor and oddly beautiful, intensely ethereal clientele. To her surprise, her mysterious stranger is sitting smack dab in the VIP section. What are the chances?!
Tegan is struck by the coincidence of bumping into him again so soon, while he is furious that she remembers him when he insisted she forget their meeting. Tegan has no idea that she’s taken a misstep into a whole new world inhabited by vampires, slayers, dhampirs, witches and warlocks. All of whom display a wholly disconcerting interest in what makes her unique from the rest of the clueless humans who populate the city. On top of this, her handsome stranger keeps turning up at her work and seems intent on getting to know her a whole lot better.
Nightfall is book one in L.H. Cosway’s Blood Magic Series. A previous, unedited version of this story was published under the title Tegan’s Blood.
Tegan has never seen anything like it, nor does she understand why he then lays those mesmerising eyes on her and tells her to forget they ever met. She shrugs it off as just another weird night shift encounter, until the following evening when her best friend produces free passes to a new club in the city. Tegan agrees to go and is pleasantly surprised by the tasteful, classy décor and oddly beautiful, intensely ethereal clientele. To her surprise, her mysterious stranger is sitting smack dab in the VIP section. What are the chances?!
Tegan is struck by the coincidence of bumping into him again so soon, while he is furious that she remembers him when he insisted she forget their meeting. Tegan has no idea that she’s taken a misstep into a whole new world inhabited by vampires, slayers, dhampirs, witches and warlocks. All of whom display a wholly disconcerting interest in what makes her unique from the rest of the clueless humans who populate the city. On top of this, her handsome stranger keeps turning up at her work and seems intent on getting to know her a whole lot better.
Nightfall is book one in L.H. Cosway’s Blood Magic Series. A previous, unedited version of this story was published under the title Tegan’s Blood.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2012
About the author
L.H. Cosway
54 books5,872 followersL.H. Cosway lives in Dublin, Ireland. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.
She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LHCosway
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LHCosway
Mailing List: https://lhcoswayauthor.com/newsletter/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lhcosway13/
Website: www.lhcoswayauthor.com
She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LHCosway
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LHCosway
Mailing List: https://lhcoswayauthor.com/newsletter/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lhcosway13/
Website: www.lhcoswayauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 368 reviews
July 2, 2021
3.5 stars
Nightfall is a revamped (heh, see what I did there?) version of LH Cosway’s earlier books originally called Tegan’s Blood. It follows a young cashier who meets two vampires while working in a grocery shop and her life takes a dramatic turn just from that one encounter.
I am conflicted. LH Cosway is one of my favorite authors and while I liked this book, I am not sure if I want to read the rest of the series. Cosway always creates characters that are amazing, but the plot and worldbuilding in this book were seriously lacking for me. That coupled with a weak romance, is it even worth it to continue? Hmm.
Nightfall is a revamped (heh, see what I did there?) version of LH Cosway’s earlier books originally called Tegan’s Blood. It follows a young cashier who meets two vampires while working in a grocery shop and her life takes a dramatic turn just from that one encounter.
I am conflicted. LH Cosway is one of my favorite authors and while I liked this book, I am not sure if I want to read the rest of the series. Cosway always creates characters that are amazing, but the plot and worldbuilding in this book were seriously lacking for me. That coupled with a weak romance, is it even worth it to continue? Hmm.
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August 30, 2023Nightfall is now live on Kindle Unlimited for just 99c!
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YB8M2VN
Read on for sneak peek of chapter one!
***
1.
“I’m the one who eats actual food here, so I know what I’m talking about.”
“Well, I might not eat, but I know for a fact that you don’t put chorizo in paella. I was once invited to dinner at Salvador Dali’s house in Figueres. Paella was served, and I remember a distinct lack of the spiced sausage.”
I might not eat?
Salvador Dali?
Who the hell were these oddballs?
I was at work, mindlessly sticking price tags on tins of baked beans, when I overheard the oddest conversation. It wasn’t way out of the ordinary for me to see or hear weird shit when working the night shift at Hagan’s 24-hour grocery. I was kind of desensitised after witnessing one woman crack open a box of tampons before pulling down her pants in the middle of the aisle and, well, you know the rest.
People could be really fucking disgusting sometimes.
I leaned closer to the shelves and strained my ears to listen.
“Hey, if she wants to put chorizo in the dish, then let her,” another voice said. This one male. “What difference does it make? I’d like to get out of here sometime in the next century.”
“Ugh, fine,” the woman groaned. “I’ll pass on the chorizo. I can’t believe I gave Ethan the opportunity to name drop. I’ll never learn.”
“When you’ve been alive as long as I have, you meet a few historical figures along the way,” the first man, Ethan, said casually.
I furrowed my brow. These three were definitely on drugs. The Yellowbranch Forest, just outside the city limits, was famous for its psilocybin. I shook my head, chuckling to myself, as I refocused on pricing tins. Head down, I continued to listen to their bizarre conversation when I heard them come my way.
“Did you ever cross paths with Da Vinci?” the second man asked. “I heard he was partial to handsome young gentlemen like you.”
“He was sadly before my time, but unlike some, dear Lucas, I’ve never felt myself swayed by the same sex.” A pause. “Actually, I tell a lie. I did once consider letting Bosie go down on me. He was terribly pretty and very persuasive.”
I arched an eyebrow. Maybe they were role-playing, or practicing lines for a TV show. Chancing a quick peek, I spotted a red-haired woman, a tall, blond man, and a dark-haired guy idling by the jarred sauces. Hmm, they were definitely attractive enough to be actors.
“I’m sure you only considered it,” the dark-haired man scoffed. “I’ve never known you to turn down oral pleasure.”
“I do have some restraint,” the blond man shot back before going markedly silent. His nostrils flared like he was sampling the air. It reminded me of my dad’s pitbull, Bruiser, and how he used to stand by the back door, sniffing the air before he decided to go outside.
A moment later the blond man’s eyes met mine, and I gasped, dropping the tin of beans I’d been holding. Were his eyes gold? Acting on instinct, I bent to pick up the tin but found he’d gotten there before me. He was fast. He lifted the tin and handed it to me. “Here you go.” His eyes drifted down to the name tag on my uniform. “Tegan.”
“Thanks,” I whispered, blinking rapidly. Up close he was even more attractive. I’d go as far as to say he was beautiful.
“She smells unusual, doesn’t she?” the red-haired woman commented, tilting her head as she took me in.
“Yes, rather unusual indeed,” the blond man agreed. I noticed a slightly Eastern European lilt in his accent.
His curious eyes wandered over me, and for a second, I felt like I couldn’t breathe. The tiny hairs on my arms stood on end and some weird part of my brain yelled that I should get away from him fast.
Then, the glass sliding doors at the entrance of the store opened and a voice shouted, “I have a weapon. Come out here and open the till NOW!”
The blond man raised an eyebrow, muttering blandly, “That is quite the threat.”
“Quite,” I agreed as my stomach turned over in fear. It was just my luck that someone decided to rob the place when I was the only one on shift. Again. This was why I hated working at night. The dark brought out all the crazies. I’d also left my phone in my locker at the back of the store.
“Excuse me,” I said to Mr. Blond and Beautiful as I stood and went to confront the piece of shit who just threatened me. The first time this happened, I froze and the thief got away with all the money from the register, as well as what was in the safe. Mr. Hagen said he’d fire me if I let the store get robbed again, and I couldn’t afford to lose this job right now.
A greasy looking guy in a sweat-stained T-shirt and torn jeans stood by the counter, knife in hand. He wore a balaclava, but I was fairly certain I recognised him as the same scumbag who’d robbed us the last time.
“You again. I see the Tribane Police Department is doing a stellar job keeping the city safe.”
“Shut up and open the till, bitch,” he hissed, thrusting the knife towards me in an unwieldy manner. I quickly sidestepped out of the way.
“As you can see, I’m on my way to open it right now,” I said, keeping my voice neutral as I passed by him and went behind the counter. The thief shoved a plastic bag at me. “Put it all in there.”
Over his shoulder, I saw the blond man appear. He placed his finger to his lips, and I furrowed my brow. I thought he might’ve done me a solid by calling the police. Instead it looked like he was going to try and take this guy on directly. Well, better him than me.
I tried to act normal as I opened the till and shoved cash inside the bag. “I didn’t realise thieves were so environmentally friendly these days.”
“What are you talking about?” the robber asked impatiently.
“You brought your own reusable bag,” I said. “Very forward-thinking. It’s nice to know there are people out there making an effort to tackle global warming.”
Behind him, Blondie smirked in amusement.
“Just put the money in the bag and shut your mouth,” he snapped.
“Sure thing,” I said with false politeness. As I spoke, Blondie reached out and swiped the knife from the thief’s grip. He moved fast, just like he did when he picked up the tin of beans. Maybe I was extra-tired, but his speed didn’t seem natural …
“Hey!” the thief exclaimed, grasping for his knife. Blondie was tall enough that he could easily hold it out of reach. Looking the thief dead in the eye, he said, “You’re going to leave now and never come back.”
The thief stilled, a strange look coming over him almost like he was in a trance. Then to my shock, he quietly turned and left the store.
Confused, I placed my hands on my hips and looked back at Blondie. “Eh, what the hell? How did you do that?”
Taking his time, Blondie pocketed the knife before turning his attention to me. I was vaguely aware of the red-haired woman and the other man standing a few feet behind him. Blondie pulled a fifty from his wallet and placed it on the counter. “For the food.” I glanced at the woman, who was holding a basket full of items. “I’m sorry to have to do this, Tegan, especially since you smell so very interesting, but I must insist you forget this ever happened.”
I stared at him blankly, intending to sound sarcastic, but my suppressed nerves from the attempted robbery made the word come out stilted. “Ooo—kay.”
“Until next we meet.”
With that, he left, the other two following behind him.
“Just take the basket with you then,” I muttered, shaking my head. Bunch of weirdos. I glanced down at the bag of cash and swore loudly. I was going to have to reorganise it and put it all back in the register.
“Fantastic. Just bloody fantastic.”
***
Add Nightfall to your reading list: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YB8M2VN
Read on for sneak peek of chapter one!
***
1.
“I’m the one who eats actual food here, so I know what I’m talking about.”
“Well, I might not eat, but I know for a fact that you don’t put chorizo in paella. I was once invited to dinner at Salvador Dali’s house in Figueres. Paella was served, and I remember a distinct lack of the spiced sausage.”
I might not eat?
Salvador Dali?
Who the hell were these oddballs?
I was at work, mindlessly sticking price tags on tins of baked beans, when I overheard the oddest conversation. It wasn’t way out of the ordinary for me to see or hear weird shit when working the night shift at Hagan’s 24-hour grocery. I was kind of desensitised after witnessing one woman crack open a box of tampons before pulling down her pants in the middle of the aisle and, well, you know the rest.
People could be really fucking disgusting sometimes.
I leaned closer to the shelves and strained my ears to listen.
“Hey, if she wants to put chorizo in the dish, then let her,” another voice said. This one male. “What difference does it make? I’d like to get out of here sometime in the next century.”
“Ugh, fine,” the woman groaned. “I’ll pass on the chorizo. I can’t believe I gave Ethan the opportunity to name drop. I’ll never learn.”
“When you’ve been alive as long as I have, you meet a few historical figures along the way,” the first man, Ethan, said casually.
I furrowed my brow. These three were definitely on drugs. The Yellowbranch Forest, just outside the city limits, was famous for its psilocybin. I shook my head, chuckling to myself, as I refocused on pricing tins. Head down, I continued to listen to their bizarre conversation when I heard them come my way.
“Did you ever cross paths with Da Vinci?” the second man asked. “I heard he was partial to handsome young gentlemen like you.”
“He was sadly before my time, but unlike some, dear Lucas, I’ve never felt myself swayed by the same sex.” A pause. “Actually, I tell a lie. I did once consider letting Bosie go down on me. He was terribly pretty and very persuasive.”
I arched an eyebrow. Maybe they were role-playing, or practicing lines for a TV show. Chancing a quick peek, I spotted a red-haired woman, a tall, blond man, and a dark-haired guy idling by the jarred sauces. Hmm, they were definitely attractive enough to be actors.
“I’m sure you only considered it,” the dark-haired man scoffed. “I’ve never known you to turn down oral pleasure.”
“I do have some restraint,” the blond man shot back before going markedly silent. His nostrils flared like he was sampling the air. It reminded me of my dad’s pitbull, Bruiser, and how he used to stand by the back door, sniffing the air before he decided to go outside.
A moment later the blond man’s eyes met mine, and I gasped, dropping the tin of beans I’d been holding. Were his eyes gold? Acting on instinct, I bent to pick up the tin but found he’d gotten there before me. He was fast. He lifted the tin and handed it to me. “Here you go.” His eyes drifted down to the name tag on my uniform. “Tegan.”
“Thanks,” I whispered, blinking rapidly. Up close he was even more attractive. I’d go as far as to say he was beautiful.
“She smells unusual, doesn’t she?” the red-haired woman commented, tilting her head as she took me in.
“Yes, rather unusual indeed,” the blond man agreed. I noticed a slightly Eastern European lilt in his accent.
His curious eyes wandered over me, and for a second, I felt like I couldn’t breathe. The tiny hairs on my arms stood on end and some weird part of my brain yelled that I should get away from him fast.
Then, the glass sliding doors at the entrance of the store opened and a voice shouted, “I have a weapon. Come out here and open the till NOW!”
The blond man raised an eyebrow, muttering blandly, “That is quite the threat.”
“Quite,” I agreed as my stomach turned over in fear. It was just my luck that someone decided to rob the place when I was the only one on shift. Again. This was why I hated working at night. The dark brought out all the crazies. I’d also left my phone in my locker at the back of the store.
“Excuse me,” I said to Mr. Blond and Beautiful as I stood and went to confront the piece of shit who just threatened me. The first time this happened, I froze and the thief got away with all the money from the register, as well as what was in the safe. Mr. Hagen said he’d fire me if I let the store get robbed again, and I couldn’t afford to lose this job right now.
A greasy looking guy in a sweat-stained T-shirt and torn jeans stood by the counter, knife in hand. He wore a balaclava, but I was fairly certain I recognised him as the same scumbag who’d robbed us the last time.
“You again. I see the Tribane Police Department is doing a stellar job keeping the city safe.”
“Shut up and open the till, bitch,” he hissed, thrusting the knife towards me in an unwieldy manner. I quickly sidestepped out of the way.
“As you can see, I’m on my way to open it right now,” I said, keeping my voice neutral as I passed by him and went behind the counter. The thief shoved a plastic bag at me. “Put it all in there.”
Over his shoulder, I saw the blond man appear. He placed his finger to his lips, and I furrowed my brow. I thought he might’ve done me a solid by calling the police. Instead it looked like he was going to try and take this guy on directly. Well, better him than me.
I tried to act normal as I opened the till and shoved cash inside the bag. “I didn’t realise thieves were so environmentally friendly these days.”
“What are you talking about?” the robber asked impatiently.
“You brought your own reusable bag,” I said. “Very forward-thinking. It’s nice to know there are people out there making an effort to tackle global warming.”
Behind him, Blondie smirked in amusement.
“Just put the money in the bag and shut your mouth,” he snapped.
“Sure thing,” I said with false politeness. As I spoke, Blondie reached out and swiped the knife from the thief’s grip. He moved fast, just like he did when he picked up the tin of beans. Maybe I was extra-tired, but his speed didn’t seem natural …
“Hey!” the thief exclaimed, grasping for his knife. Blondie was tall enough that he could easily hold it out of reach. Looking the thief dead in the eye, he said, “You’re going to leave now and never come back.”
The thief stilled, a strange look coming over him almost like he was in a trance. Then to my shock, he quietly turned and left the store.
Confused, I placed my hands on my hips and looked back at Blondie. “Eh, what the hell? How did you do that?”
Taking his time, Blondie pocketed the knife before turning his attention to me. I was vaguely aware of the red-haired woman and the other man standing a few feet behind him. Blondie pulled a fifty from his wallet and placed it on the counter. “For the food.” I glanced at the woman, who was holding a basket full of items. “I’m sorry to have to do this, Tegan, especially since you smell so very interesting, but I must insist you forget this ever happened.”
I stared at him blankly, intending to sound sarcastic, but my suppressed nerves from the attempted robbery made the word come out stilted. “Ooo—kay.”
“Until next we meet.”
With that, he left, the other two following behind him.
“Just take the basket with you then,” I muttered, shaking my head. Bunch of weirdos. I glanced down at the bag of cash and swore loudly. I was going to have to reorganise it and put it all back in the register.
“Fantastic. Just bloody fantastic.”
***
Add Nightfall to your reading list: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
February 27, 2021
SERIES: Blood Magic #1
GENRE: paranormal romance
TROPES/THEMES: insta-love, vampires/witches
CLIFFHANGER: yes
TRIGGER WARNINGS: mention of suicide ( off page.. heroine ex boyfriend)
RATING: 4⭐
SONGS: Eurythmics - Sweet dreams
Abba - SOS
One night while working a night shift in a grocery store our heroine, Tegan encounters three interesting strangers. After one of them helps her fend off an armed robber Tegan doesn't give it much attention. However, after meeting a mystery man Ethan again, she suddenly learns about these creatures that are living among people- vampires. Not only that, Tegan is no ordinary human either.
Reveling secrets about the world and herself Tegan takes us on a supernatural journey of fighting evil, new romance, and self-discovery.
This series is edited and rewritten from a previously published series Tegan's Blood by this author. I haven't read that series so I can't say much about improvement.
This book is a great introduction to a supernatural series. It has many intriguing characters and I am curious how will the story unfold.
A perfect read for the fans of Vampire Dairies, Originals, or Legacy.
GENRE: paranormal romance
TROPES/THEMES: insta-love, vampires/witches
CLIFFHANGER: yes
TRIGGER WARNINGS: mention of suicide ( off page.. heroine ex boyfriend)
RATING: 4⭐
SONGS: Eurythmics - Sweet dreams
Abba - SOS
One night while working a night shift in a grocery store our heroine, Tegan encounters three interesting strangers. After one of them helps her fend off an armed robber Tegan doesn't give it much attention. However, after meeting a mystery man Ethan again, she suddenly learns about these creatures that are living among people- vampires. Not only that, Tegan is no ordinary human either.
Reveling secrets about the world and herself Tegan takes us on a supernatural journey of fighting evil, new romance, and self-discovery.
This series is edited and rewritten from a previously published series Tegan's Blood by this author. I haven't read that series so I can't say much about improvement.
This book is a great introduction to a supernatural series. It has many intriguing characters and I am curious how will the story unfold.
A perfect read for the fans of Vampire Dairies, Originals, or Legacy.
May 4, 2021
3.5 STARS
I have to admit it's been a while since I've read a vampire/witchcraft fantasy, so it took some time for me to settle into this story. I also want to say that I have read and thoroughly enjoyed many of Cosway's books in the past. And I did really enjoy this one as well, however, I don't think it was the best example of her work. The story was creative and once I got into it, entertaining. However, I felt like it was a little bit, Idk, corny at times. Maybe juvenile, for lack of a better term. It reminds me of something written by a much younger author. I hate to say that though, because it sounds like I'm being overly critical. But I also can't leave it left unsaid. I know, I'm making no sense at all.
In short, I enjoyed the book. I will be reading on in the series. I must know what happens next.
If you like paranormal/fantasy and you like Cosway's romances, you'll love this. Do I think she could have improved this... absolutely.
Enough said.
“Do you know what it feels like when I’m near you?” he asked in a seductive, entrancing voice. It made me instantly forget why I was wary of him or why I should be leaving. “What does it feel like?” I whispered.
He lowered his mouth so that it was hair’s breadth from mine.
“It feels like my entire body is vibrating with the undiscovered mystery that lies inside of you.” “There’s no mystery in me.”
“I beg to differ.”
I have to admit it's been a while since I've read a vampire/witchcraft fantasy, so it took some time for me to settle into this story. I also want to say that I have read and thoroughly enjoyed many of Cosway's books in the past. And I did really enjoy this one as well, however, I don't think it was the best example of her work. The story was creative and once I got into it, entertaining. However, I felt like it was a little bit, Idk, corny at times. Maybe juvenile, for lack of a better term. It reminds me of something written by a much younger author. I hate to say that though, because it sounds like I'm being overly critical. But I also can't leave it left unsaid. I know, I'm making no sense at all.
In short, I enjoyed the book. I will be reading on in the series. I must know what happens next.
If you like paranormal/fantasy and you like Cosway's romances, you'll love this. Do I think she could have improved this... absolutely.
Enough said.
December 19, 2012
The plot of Tegan's Blood was a predictable mishmash of other vampire stories and episodes of Buffy, but that still could have been enjoyable if it weren't for the character of Tegan herself.
I can't remember the last time I read such a spineless, defeated, and annoying main character. She spouts antagonistic tough talk and then backs it up by letting every stranger in the vicinity walk all over her and her common sense past the point of a death wish.
In the very first chapter, Tegan is cornered by three creepy people in an alley behind a club. They intimidate and threaten her and demand to know her name and address. She promptly cries and asks them if she's allowed to go now. (Oh yeah, that'll work.) They demand her name and she goes through her tough routine of "No way, I'll never tell you!" Then they ask her nicely and... she tells them. Next, one of the creepsters insists he will drive her home so he can learn her address. Once again she's all, "That will never happen! I'd die first! Blah blah blah!" (I'm paraphrasing.) Of course two minutes later she's given in because they just seem so insistent, and well it would just be easiest this way, and she really does want to get home, and besides Mr. Creepy is hawt. So she gets in his car alone, lets him drive her home, and then invites him inside!! This girl is a danger to herself and others. And my psyche.
Here's a real quote from later on in the story that nicely illustrates her character. This is of course right after she's told the vampires that she doesn't need them because she's Super Duper Tough Girl, and then a riot breaks out:
"I try to get up but the pain in the left side of my ribs is a killer, and I was never one to handle pain well. The slightest twinge and I’m out for the count. I need help, even one of the vampires would do. Hell, I’d even accept Marcel at this point. I hadn’t realized it until this moment, but as I peer down at my hands I notice that they are shaking. A human riot is frightening enough, but a supernatural one? Well that’s just a little past my capability level."
I'm afraid most things are past her capability level. She relies on her inherent "specialness" instead of any skill or intelligence of her own. And the few times in the story where events actually call for her to be diplomatic and conciliatory, those are the times, for some reason, that she chooses to stick to her guns and be rude and histrionic and demanding! I just couldn't connect with any manifestation of her bipolar character.
And on a writing mechanics note, the run-on sentences were pervasive to the point of being majorly distracting.
I can't remember the last time I read such a spineless, defeated, and annoying main character. She spouts antagonistic tough talk and then backs it up by letting every stranger in the vicinity walk all over her and her common sense past the point of a death wish.
In the very first chapter, Tegan is cornered by three creepy people in an alley behind a club. They intimidate and threaten her and demand to know her name and address. She promptly cries and asks them if she's allowed to go now. (Oh yeah, that'll work.) They demand her name and she goes through her tough routine of "No way, I'll never tell you!" Then they ask her nicely and... she tells them. Next, one of the creepsters insists he will drive her home so he can learn her address. Once again she's all, "That will never happen! I'd die first! Blah blah blah!" (I'm paraphrasing.) Of course two minutes later she's given in because they just seem so insistent, and well it would just be easiest this way, and she really does want to get home, and besides Mr. Creepy is hawt. So she gets in his car alone, lets him drive her home, and then invites him inside!! This girl is a danger to herself and others. And my psyche.
Here's a real quote from later on in the story that nicely illustrates her character. This is of course right after she's told the vampires that she doesn't need them because she's Super Duper Tough Girl, and then a riot breaks out:
"I try to get up but the pain in the left side of my ribs is a killer, and I was never one to handle pain well. The slightest twinge and I’m out for the count. I need help, even one of the vampires would do. Hell, I’d even accept Marcel at this point. I hadn’t realized it until this moment, but as I peer down at my hands I notice that they are shaking. A human riot is frightening enough, but a supernatural one? Well that’s just a little past my capability level."
I'm afraid most things are past her capability level. She relies on her inherent "specialness" instead of any skill or intelligence of her own. And the few times in the story where events actually call for her to be diplomatic and conciliatory, those are the times, for some reason, that she chooses to stick to her guns and be rude and histrionic and demanding! I just couldn't connect with any manifestation of her bipolar character.
And on a writing mechanics note, the run-on sentences were pervasive to the point of being majorly distracting.
April 2, 2021
"4- Knights in shining armor don't exist. There's always a catch, Stars!"
L.H. Cosway is one of my favorite authors, and she's one of my 1-click automatic buys.
So, when I heard she was releasing this series, I was really excited.
Nightfall is the first book in the "Blood Magic" tetrology.
Once again L.H. has created very interesting, and unique characters.
In this paranormal series, she's created a world where Vampires, Warlocks, Witches, and shapeshifters exist but are unknown to the common folk.
This is a story of an average girl being at the wrong place at the wrong time and having the world as she knows it immediately being turned upside down.
I really enjoyed Ian and Tegan's characters.
They are likable and engaging.
The attraction and chemistry between the two is wonderful, and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
This is a good start to the series.
"I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by the author.
February 28, 2021
I love that this author has decided to update this series giving me an opportunity to read them. I have looked at them in the past but always passed them by. Perhaps the cover, the blurb, or reviews? Not sure really. But I’ve found that when books are updated they are usually very well done and so I jumped on this as soon as I had the chance.
Teagan was a heroine that is just struggling to get by. She’s got a job that leaves a lot to be desired but it has put her exactly where she needs to be to meet Ethan. When she meets him again, things get really interesting. She quickly showed herself to be strong and fierce, protective of those who are without someone to stand up for them. It didn’t take me long to love her.
I don’t want to spoiler anything here, although I personally didn’t find anything to be a shock or surprise as the story unfolds. This is a fast read that captured my attention from the earliest pages. It’s a low steam story with the romance taking the back burner but always flickering in and out throughout the plotline. Everything was very well developed and described to the point I felt like it was a movie playing in my mind.
This ends with a cliffhanger, but not the kind that makes you shout out in agony. Nevertheless, I really want to know what Teagan will be doing next and fortunately the second book has already been reedited and I’ve got a copy queued up and ready to go.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Teagan was a heroine that is just struggling to get by. She’s got a job that leaves a lot to be desired but it has put her exactly where she needs to be to meet Ethan. When she meets him again, things get really interesting. She quickly showed herself to be strong and fierce, protective of those who are without someone to stand up for them. It didn’t take me long to love her.
I don’t want to spoiler anything here, although I personally didn’t find anything to be a shock or surprise as the story unfolds. This is a fast read that captured my attention from the earliest pages. It’s a low steam story with the romance taking the back burner but always flickering in and out throughout the plotline. Everything was very well developed and described to the point I felt like it was a movie playing in my mind.
This ends with a cliffhanger, but not the kind that makes you shout out in agony. Nevertheless, I really want to know what Teagan will be doing next and fortunately the second book has already been reedited and I’ve got a copy queued up and ready to go.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
December 7, 2020
Beta reading so so good <3 <3
March 4, 2021
Tegan is just working her nightshift minimart job when it’s robbed, again. This time someone appears to help her, a good looking blond man. Him and his companions move fast and act weird, telling her she will not remember them. She thinks it weird but hey she’s okay and they lost no money. Later when she goes out with friends to a nightclub she meets the blondie again and he’s shocked she remembers him. This is where it all starts to unravel. What is it about her that is different ?
This world all new to her, is a very dangerous place. She learns of vampires, witches and that she is not who she thought she was. Lust, love, greed, betrayal and lies fill her life now.
A great start to a series. The world is filled with possibilities. I can’t wait to see where this spunky girl goes and what she learns. Beware you’ll need book two as soon as you finish this one. Trust me you need to know what happens
L.H. Cosway is one of my favorite authors she writes the best characters.
This world all new to her, is a very dangerous place. She learns of vampires, witches and that she is not who she thought she was. Lust, love, greed, betrayal and lies fill her life now.
A great start to a series. The world is filled with possibilities. I can’t wait to see where this spunky girl goes and what she learns. Beware you’ll need book two as soon as you finish this one. Trust me you need to know what happens
L.H. Cosway is one of my favorite authors she writes the best characters.
March 9, 2021
I received an ARC copy from the author today.
I loved this book. It had both suspense and a slow burn romance. I look forward to reading the next book in this series by this author.
I loved this book. It had both suspense and a slow burn romance. I look forward to reading the next book in this series by this author.
February 25, 2021
Nightfall by LH Cosway
‘“Do you know what it feels like when I’m near you?” he asked in a seductive, entrancing voice. It made me instantly forget why I was wary of him or why I should be leaving.
“What does it feel like?” I whispered.
He lowered his mouth so that it was hair’s breadth from mine. “It feels like my entire body is vibrating with the undiscovered mystery that lies inside of you.”
“There’s no mystery in me.”
“I beg to differ.”
LH Cosway is one of my all-time top three writers. She is consistently brilliant in everything she writes, regardless of trope, which is why it definitely pains me that I just could not get into this first book in her supernatural series. It felt like it was more of a YA read and I absolutely adore YA but with this book I felt like certain aspects needed to be fleshed out and maybe explained a little better. Characters, plot devices and some dialogue just felt a little stilted and cliched. Without getting bogged down in spoilers, it felt like every vampire romance I’ve ever read or watched condensed down into one. The mysterious guy who always shows up to save the girl, the girl who isn’t like other girls, who is rather unique but doesn’t quite know it, the zany sidekicks and the plethora of shady can-we-trust-them cast of players. I know this was LH Cosway’s first release, even before Painted Faces. It’s a revised version of that debut publication but I think you can tell just how far she has come in her writing skills since then. She has matured in leaps and bounds, delivering stellar and sensational romance stories time and time again.
Nightfall was interesting and engaging up to a point, particularly in reference to how Tegan was grieving, the strong bond she had with her neighbour’s kid, and how strong and resilient she is as a heroic figure for the story however, it didn’t seem to flow as well as it could have. The potential was certainly there, with all the key ingredients in making this a fabulous and thrilling paranormal romance adventure, but somewhere around the halfway mark it started to meander a little and I felt my patience waning along with the plot. I wanted a little more substance and build up to events, some of it felt hurried whilst other parts seemed to drag.
Maybe because it’s the first book in a series, everything and everyone, including our main protagonists are being established, that it’s just building up to a more exciting and exhilarating journey. I liked Nightfall, it kept me reading to the very end, to see how it all played out. I even loved Teagan and Ethan, I think as magical and mystical leads, they will get even better, hopefully with more romance infused into the storyline. I will read book two because it certainly deserves a chance to redeem itself. I am intrigued to see where the story flows to and if the mystery and action kicks into high gear.
‘“Do you know what it feels like when I’m near you?” he asked in a seductive, entrancing voice. It made me instantly forget why I was wary of him or why I should be leaving.
“What does it feel like?” I whispered.
He lowered his mouth so that it was hair’s breadth from mine. “It feels like my entire body is vibrating with the undiscovered mystery that lies inside of you.”
“There’s no mystery in me.”
“I beg to differ.”
LH Cosway is one of my all-time top three writers. She is consistently brilliant in everything she writes, regardless of trope, which is why it definitely pains me that I just could not get into this first book in her supernatural series. It felt like it was more of a YA read and I absolutely adore YA but with this book I felt like certain aspects needed to be fleshed out and maybe explained a little better. Characters, plot devices and some dialogue just felt a little stilted and cliched. Without getting bogged down in spoilers, it felt like every vampire romance I’ve ever read or watched condensed down into one. The mysterious guy who always shows up to save the girl, the girl who isn’t like other girls, who is rather unique but doesn’t quite know it, the zany sidekicks and the plethora of shady can-we-trust-them cast of players. I know this was LH Cosway’s first release, even before Painted Faces. It’s a revised version of that debut publication but I think you can tell just how far she has come in her writing skills since then. She has matured in leaps and bounds, delivering stellar and sensational romance stories time and time again.
Nightfall was interesting and engaging up to a point, particularly in reference to how Tegan was grieving, the strong bond she had with her neighbour’s kid, and how strong and resilient she is as a heroic figure for the story however, it didn’t seem to flow as well as it could have. The potential was certainly there, with all the key ingredients in making this a fabulous and thrilling paranormal romance adventure, but somewhere around the halfway mark it started to meander a little and I felt my patience waning along with the plot. I wanted a little more substance and build up to events, some of it felt hurried whilst other parts seemed to drag.
Maybe because it’s the first book in a series, everything and everyone, including our main protagonists are being established, that it’s just building up to a more exciting and exhilarating journey. I liked Nightfall, it kept me reading to the very end, to see how it all played out. I even loved Teagan and Ethan, I think as magical and mystical leads, they will get even better, hopefully with more romance infused into the storyline. I will read book two because it certainly deserves a chance to redeem itself. I am intrigued to see where the story flows to and if the mystery and action kicks into high gear.
September 25, 2012
I don't know why this is rated so highly. Tegan is annoying. The whole book is her being explained things to. Boring. And definitely not a romance.
March 14, 2018
DNFd at chapter 14 because the heroine was doing my head in
March 9, 2021
➵ L.H. Cosway skillfully pens a hooking story about a woman whose life will never be the same after the night she met the mysterious Ethan Cristescu.
➵ Heroine: Tegan was merely surviving at a dead-end job when Ethan saved her from an armed robber. But when she runs into him again at a nightclub, she’s introduced to a paranormal world she only thought existed in books. I really liked her personality. She’s sassy and sarcastic and faces life head on.
➵ Hero: Ethan has all the traits I like in a hero. He’s protective, caring, strong, tender with a great sense of humor. He’s enigmatic, but doesn’t hesitate to show his appreciation, care and attraction towards Tegan.
➵ Sexiness: This being a four book series, I like that even though Ethan is strongly attracted to Tegan, their relationship is developed organically. She’s intrigued by him, but doesn’t truly know him and is cautious. Yet, like I mentioned before, Ethan was not shy to show his fascination towards Tegan which is absolutely sexy.
➵ Plot: L.H. Cosway creates a wonderful new paranormal world I absolutely got lost in. While Tegan’s life is turned upside down after discovering vampires, dhampirs, vampire slayers, witches and warlocks exist, she’s further shaken by the mystery behind her uniqueness. Add a storm brewing in the paranormal community and you’ve got one very exciting read.
➵ Feels: This is a great series starter. It’s fast paced read, with well-developed characters, both main and secondary and an interesting plot that plays out like a movie with its vivid descriptions.
➵ Facts: Nightfall is book #1 of the Blood Magic series by L.H. Cosway. It's told from Tegan’s point of view with a semi-resolved ending. Genres: Paranormal Romance
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3t0oTNP
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
Stalk me on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★ More reviews
➵ Heroine: Tegan was merely surviving at a dead-end job when Ethan saved her from an armed robber. But when she runs into him again at a nightclub, she’s introduced to a paranormal world she only thought existed in books. I really liked her personality. She’s sassy and sarcastic and faces life head on.
➵ Hero: Ethan has all the traits I like in a hero. He’s protective, caring, strong, tender with a great sense of humor. He’s enigmatic, but doesn’t hesitate to show his appreciation, care and attraction towards Tegan.
“Your heart beats so fast,” he sighed like it was somehow devastating and his minty breath washed over me. “Can I kiss you?”
➵ Sexiness: This being a four book series, I like that even though Ethan is strongly attracted to Tegan, their relationship is developed organically. She’s intrigued by him, but doesn’t truly know him and is cautious. Yet, like I mentioned before, Ethan was not shy to show his fascination towards Tegan which is absolutely sexy.
“Keep looking at me like that and you’ll be in trouble,” he whispered in a sultry voice. “Can I keep you?”
➵ Plot: L.H. Cosway creates a wonderful new paranormal world I absolutely got lost in. While Tegan’s life is turned upside down after discovering vampires, dhampirs, vampire slayers, witches and warlocks exist, she’s further shaken by the mystery behind her uniqueness. Add a storm brewing in the paranormal community and you’ve got one very exciting read.
➵ Feels: This is a great series starter. It’s fast paced read, with well-developed characters, both main and secondary and an interesting plot that plays out like a movie with its vivid descriptions.
➵ Facts: Nightfall is book #1 of the Blood Magic series by L.H. Cosway. It's told from Tegan’s point of view with a semi-resolved ending. Genres: Paranormal Romance
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3t0oTNP
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
Stalk me on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★ More reviews
April 29, 2013
What a surprising book. I started this book with no expectations other than the description. The first part of the book was slow moving and not all that eventful. I was afraid that I would lose interest and have to stop reading it. However, by about 1/3 of the way through, the story picked up and I became engaged in the story and what was occurring. By the end, I couldn't put the book down and was anxiously waiting to read more.
Tegan was a complex character. I enjoyed her and it was so easy to connect to her. The discovery of what she is was intriguing and I was interested in her and her story. You could feel the sadness of her heartbreak and it was so easy to empathize with what she was experiencing.
Ethan was an amazing character. I loved him and he is a great book boyfriend. He is pretty much everything you want in a book hero rolled into one hunky vampire.
The reason for the 4 star review was the climax of the book. It happened so incredibly fast and the main villain of the book was such a small player compared to other characters. There were also some characters who were lost in the story. Those characters may have more depth or story in the next book, but I just felt like something was lacking.
Overall this book was great. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to pick up the next one. I highly recommend it.
Tegan was a complex character. I enjoyed her and it was so easy to connect to her. The discovery of what she is was intriguing and I was interested in her and her story. You could feel the sadness of her heartbreak and it was so easy to empathize with what she was experiencing.
Ethan was an amazing character. I loved him and he is a great book boyfriend. He is pretty much everything you want in a book hero rolled into one hunky vampire.
The reason for the 4 star review was the climax of the book. It happened so incredibly fast and the main villain of the book was such a small player compared to other characters. There were also some characters who were lost in the story. Those characters may have more depth or story in the next book, but I just felt like something was lacking.
Overall this book was great. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to pick up the next one. I highly recommend it.
March 9, 2021
I have been a fan of this author for years, but this was the first time I picked up this series. To be honest, I've read more than my fair share of vampire romances and the style of her other books is so different, I just never picked up this series. Recently, however, I just got into it thanks to and ARC. I am so glad I finally got to this series and I am hooked. I can't wait to get through the rest of the series to find out what happens.
In the beginning, I was a little afraid that it was going to be a bit too much like Twilight for my liking, but it quickly took off in a different direction and the mystical characters in this book. There are vampires, witches and warlocks, sorcerers, slayers and dhampirs. Tegan, the heroine in the story, comes into this world by a chance meeting with a vampire and some of his usual powers don't work on this seemingly human girl. Soon, the question everyone wants to know the answer to is, what is she. With so many people with their own agendas in the mix, it soon becomes difficult for Tegan to know who to trust or what side she's on. A lot of different threads all come together near the end as her mystery is revealed along with some other surprises.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and I found myself putting off other things to keep reading, Be warned that you will want to read the next book in the series of four as soon as you get done with this one! If you like vampires and romance, this book is for you.
In the beginning, I was a little afraid that it was going to be a bit too much like Twilight for my liking, but it quickly took off in a different direction and the mystical characters in this book. There are vampires, witches and warlocks, sorcerers, slayers and dhampirs. Tegan, the heroine in the story, comes into this world by a chance meeting with a vampire and some of his usual powers don't work on this seemingly human girl. Soon, the question everyone wants to know the answer to is, what is she. With so many people with their own agendas in the mix, it soon becomes difficult for Tegan to know who to trust or what side she's on. A lot of different threads all come together near the end as her mystery is revealed along with some other surprises.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and I found myself putting off other things to keep reading, Be warned that you will want to read the next book in the series of four as soon as you get done with this one! If you like vampires and romance, this book is for you.
January 8, 2022
This was addictingly hard to put down. A lot of world building, which is to be expected on book one, so the plot just started to get interesting when the story ended. I am definitely curious about what happens next and will be diving in to book 2 ASAP
August 3, 2024
It was a cute little book. Not very deep as far as character development goes.
June 23, 2022
That was really enjoyable!! I liked it!! The characters were fun and the plot interesting enough. I haven't much more to say. There definitely could have been a lil something more to it, I would have liked to see our characters (villains especially) developed more, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment. I'll definitely be buying book two because I'm curious to see where this goes.
October 20, 2023
17/10/23 - that was an easy little read, I didn’t expect much, I won’t write a review, it was just so I can read something, without falling deeper into my reading slum. But it was okay, nice characters, nice story, easy writing. 👍🏻
Oct 23 - needed something short and easy.
Oct 23 - needed something short and easy.
April 26, 2012
I could talk about this book for a while, so bear with me. Tegan’s Blood is nothing short of wonderful. It's a unique vampire novel that crosses a lot of literary genres, and I'm so glad I read it.
One of the greatest draws in the book is Tegan herself. First of all, that’s the coolest name I’ve heard in a while. As someone who has the same name as half of Henry VIII’s wives, I’m always drawn to people with lovely and interesting names. It really fits her personality in that it’s a bit mysterious but inexplicably beautiful. Tegan has recently dealt with a tragedy and she’s only starting to put back together the pieces of her life that fell apart. I was glad that Cosway referred back to this issue throughout the novel. So many times female characters are reeling from a loss and suddenly forget everything that happened when they meet a new hottie love interest. I really felt for her and could not imagine dealing with such a tragedy myself. This level of realism really carried the story within the paranormal context.
Tegan’s far from being a damsel in distress, however. Despite her woes, Tegan approaches life with a sardonic sensibility that is refreshing in a paranormal novel. The norm with vampire novels (thanks to an obscure little gem called Twilight) is that the female protagonist is completely weak to her male love interest and she accepts his vampire-y ways, no questions asked. I liked the fact that Tegan was skeptical throughout the novel, and at times, even a bit disgusted. Not once did I roll my eyes at her or say, “Seriously? What are you doing? Girl, please.” Despite her vulnerability, she’s a girl who thinks through her situation and tries to be logical about the paranormal elements that occur around her. In one scene, she’s forced into a Wiccan ceremony, where she sits there a sort of wonders, what the heck are these people doing? I laughed out loud and loved it, because that’s how a normal girl should act in a situation like that.
Ethan, the love interest, is super sexy and that she can resist him on any level is shocking to me. He says all the things that you want a guy to say to you. At the same time, their relationship is surprisingly healthy. As much as he wants to be manly and constantly protect her, Tegan keeps him from being controlling and dominating. He is just as drawn to her as she is to him, and their relationship is one that I’m willing to root for. Supporting characters stand on their own and are unique, offbeat individuals that are anything but clichéd. I especially liked Rita, although I was ready to dislike her when she first appeared. But the characters kept me guessing and it was nice that as a reader, I was hesitant to trust many of them because the stakes were so high in the novel. To me, that’s a sign of carefully crafted relationships between the characters in the novel, some of which go back long before the temporal confines of Tegan’s story.
The story line itself is complex. Tegan’s city is teeming with secrets and hidden layers, and is nice complement to Tegan herself. Like Tribane, Tegan has mysterious qualities, most of which she cannot explain. These elements unfold throughout the novel and keep things interesting without relying on action, violence, or unnecessary bloodshed. There is some closure towards the end of the novel, but things are certainly left open and there is unfinished business that will surely be addressed in the sequel.
All this aside, my last comment is that this book is just simply well-written. That’s an important factor. Cosway is a fantastic writer and she could probably make the phone book sound dark, mysterious, dangerous, and sexy. The book is wonderfully indulgent and leaves mystery and intrigue in all the right places.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes vampires, magic, strong female heroines, and dark urban tales. It’s a great read.
One of the greatest draws in the book is Tegan herself. First of all, that’s the coolest name I’ve heard in a while. As someone who has the same name as half of Henry VIII’s wives, I’m always drawn to people with lovely and interesting names. It really fits her personality in that it’s a bit mysterious but inexplicably beautiful. Tegan has recently dealt with a tragedy and she’s only starting to put back together the pieces of her life that fell apart. I was glad that Cosway referred back to this issue throughout the novel. So many times female characters are reeling from a loss and suddenly forget everything that happened when they meet a new hottie love interest. I really felt for her and could not imagine dealing with such a tragedy myself. This level of realism really carried the story within the paranormal context.
Tegan’s far from being a damsel in distress, however. Despite her woes, Tegan approaches life with a sardonic sensibility that is refreshing in a paranormal novel. The norm with vampire novels (thanks to an obscure little gem called Twilight) is that the female protagonist is completely weak to her male love interest and she accepts his vampire-y ways, no questions asked. I liked the fact that Tegan was skeptical throughout the novel, and at times, even a bit disgusted. Not once did I roll my eyes at her or say, “Seriously? What are you doing? Girl, please.” Despite her vulnerability, she’s a girl who thinks through her situation and tries to be logical about the paranormal elements that occur around her. In one scene, she’s forced into a Wiccan ceremony, where she sits there a sort of wonders, what the heck are these people doing? I laughed out loud and loved it, because that’s how a normal girl should act in a situation like that.
Ethan, the love interest, is super sexy and that she can resist him on any level is shocking to me. He says all the things that you want a guy to say to you. At the same time, their relationship is surprisingly healthy. As much as he wants to be manly and constantly protect her, Tegan keeps him from being controlling and dominating. He is just as drawn to her as she is to him, and their relationship is one that I’m willing to root for. Supporting characters stand on their own and are unique, offbeat individuals that are anything but clichéd. I especially liked Rita, although I was ready to dislike her when she first appeared. But the characters kept me guessing and it was nice that as a reader, I was hesitant to trust many of them because the stakes were so high in the novel. To me, that’s a sign of carefully crafted relationships between the characters in the novel, some of which go back long before the temporal confines of Tegan’s story.
The story line itself is complex. Tegan’s city is teeming with secrets and hidden layers, and is nice complement to Tegan herself. Like Tribane, Tegan has mysterious qualities, most of which she cannot explain. These elements unfold throughout the novel and keep things interesting without relying on action, violence, or unnecessary bloodshed. There is some closure towards the end of the novel, but things are certainly left open and there is unfinished business that will surely be addressed in the sequel.
All this aside, my last comment is that this book is just simply well-written. That’s an important factor. Cosway is a fantastic writer and she could probably make the phone book sound dark, mysterious, dangerous, and sexy. The book is wonderfully indulgent and leaves mystery and intrigue in all the right places.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes vampires, magic, strong female heroines, and dark urban tales. It’s a great read.
May 6, 2014
Siiiiigh! I really, really hate to give such a low rating for an author that i truly enjoy reading. She was such a delightful discovery for me and she is getting so much better by each new book she publishes. I guess this is why it's so hard to have to battle it out with her earlier works.
Why i gave such a low rating is mostly because of the main charter. She was just... ugh i can't even try to explain how hard to relate she was without going on a rant. I am trying to avoid those since i DO respect this particular author and look forward greatly to any new books that she writes. But just to put it plainly, Tegan didn't have any backbone, lacked a fair amount of logical thinking, and self-preservation that made me question her intelligence and had some iffy reactions that had me going WHAT? too many times. Also the plot sometimes had some glaring holes, that had me wanting to write down some additional questions. Towards the end it was hard to stomach but i suppose i will be reading the other books part of the series. My guess is the reason Tegan didn't get a backbone, a brain and other ideas related to the plot were not resolved since the author intended to stretch it out. That is all.
Why i gave such a low rating is mostly because of the main charter. She was just... ugh i can't even try to explain how hard to relate she was without going on a rant. I am trying to avoid those since i DO respect this particular author and look forward greatly to any new books that she writes. But just to put it plainly, Tegan didn't have any backbone, lacked a fair amount of logical thinking, and self-preservation that made me question her intelligence and had some iffy reactions that had me going WHAT? too many times. Also the plot sometimes had some glaring holes, that had me wanting to write down some additional questions. Towards the end it was hard to stomach but i suppose i will be reading the other books part of the series. My guess is the reason Tegan didn't get a backbone, a brain and other ideas related to the plot were not resolved since the author intended to stretch it out. That is all.
March 14, 2021
Nightfall is the first book in the Blood Magic series, a series already published a few years ago but recently rewritten. I didn't read the original series so I went on this adventure ready to be surprised and dazzled.
Tegan, our heroine, is a courageous young woman, ready to accumulate two jobs to pay her bills. She lives in Tribane, survives the suicide of her boyfriend and is the protective friend of a young neighbor. Her life will take an unexpected turn when she meets the beautiful and mysterious Ethan. Tribane is home to warlocks, witches, vampires, slayers, and other creatures she never imagined real.
The strong point of this novel is the sensitive and gentle writing of LH Cosway. If you know the author you will not be surprised to find her trademark: light, moving intelligent and on edge words, but also touching characters, well anchored in reality even if here we are in a paranormal romance . Tegan is ordinary ... or rather, that's what she thinks. It's easy to see yourself in her. Ethan has a dark side to him since he is a vampire after all, but he is also intense, protective and seductive. The secondary characters are also endearing, such as Rita and Gabriel, as well as Florence.
The romance aspect is only touched on and we know little about the characters. It's a bit frustrating but I keep in mind that this is only the first book, the author only presents us with the context of her story and her characters and I hope that the 3 other books will have fascinating twists in store for us.
To be continued...
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tegan, our heroine, is a courageous young woman, ready to accumulate two jobs to pay her bills. She lives in Tribane, survives the suicide of her boyfriend and is the protective friend of a young neighbor. Her life will take an unexpected turn when she meets the beautiful and mysterious Ethan. Tribane is home to warlocks, witches, vampires, slayers, and other creatures she never imagined real.
The strong point of this novel is the sensitive and gentle writing of LH Cosway. If you know the author you will not be surprised to find her trademark: light, moving intelligent and on edge words, but also touching characters, well anchored in reality even if here we are in a paranormal romance . Tegan is ordinary ... or rather, that's what she thinks. It's easy to see yourself in her. Ethan has a dark side to him since he is a vampire after all, but he is also intense, protective and seductive. The secondary characters are also endearing, such as Rita and Gabriel, as well as Florence.
The romance aspect is only touched on and we know little about the characters. It's a bit frustrating but I keep in mind that this is only the first book, the author only presents us with the context of her story and her characters and I hope that the 3 other books will have fascinating twists in store for us.
To be continued...
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 15, 2022
Review for the whole series :
The pace never, ever let's up. It's no wonder I gobbled up this series in two days. The execution might be splotchy at places, or the romance lacking (or sometimes eerily reminiscent of the Edward-Bella-Jacob triangle from Twilight) BUT it's downright addicting.
The pace never, ever let's up. It's no wonder I gobbled up this series in two days. The execution might be splotchy at places, or the romance lacking (or sometimes eerily reminiscent of the Edward-Bella-Jacob triangle from Twilight) BUT it's downright addicting.
November 22, 2022
Nightfall is a decent opening for the Blood Magic series. It’s filled to the brim with all the tropes that frequent paranormal romances, but it is a fun read. I would’ve have liked to see more development all around especially where the villain is concerned. I like the way the plot comes together with action and the world building happens without info dumps.
March 23, 2013
Tegan gets involved with a secret society of vampires and discovers with a shock that supernatural beings are very real. The city where she lives is full of them! The south side of Tribane is vampire territory while the north belongs to the Slayers, Dhamphirs, and the magic wielding humans--witches, warlocks, and sorcerers. The ensuing events reveal Tegan's deeper involvement. Ethan and the other vampires all feel attracted to Tegan because of her alluring blood scent. Tegan is a descendant of an extremely rare people who are immune to vampire's compulsion, and with a blood that gives a vampire immunity to sunlight, and renders them more powerful. Tegan's mom was killed because of this, and now the evil sorcerer Theodore is back not only to lay his claim over Tribane, but also to subject Tegan to the same fate as her mom's,
Some aspects of this story are too used up for me to enjoy: secret society of vampires/ vampires with attitude/ secret society of magicians/ magicians with attitude/ innocent human victim/ powerful innocent, after all... I don't know if the story just lacks the uniqueness or the characters just need more development. The relationship of Ethan and Tegan strikes me as more lustful than romantic. I've read nothing about Ethan that's supposed to make me appreciate his character chapter after each chapter.
The only sincere thing I find here is Tegan's grief and depression caused by the recent suicide of her boyfriend. That was clearly expressed by the author. Another thing I find that redeemed this book is the scale of magic employed especially in the action scenes. The book manages to give a strong conclusion that ultimately depicts the eerie and menacing world that the characters live in. There's obviously more problems for Tegan to confront, and her future is uncertain as she runs away from the other vampires who will soon go after her for her power-giving blood.
Some aspects of this story are too used up for me to enjoy: secret society of vampires/ vampires with attitude/ secret society of magicians/ magicians with attitude/ innocent human victim/ powerful innocent, after all... I don't know if the story just lacks the uniqueness or the characters just need more development. The relationship of Ethan and Tegan strikes me as more lustful than romantic. I've read nothing about Ethan that's supposed to make me appreciate his character chapter after each chapter.
The only sincere thing I find here is Tegan's grief and depression caused by the recent suicide of her boyfriend. That was clearly expressed by the author. Another thing I find that redeemed this book is the scale of magic employed especially in the action scenes. The book manages to give a strong conclusion that ultimately depicts the eerie and menacing world that the characters live in. There's obviously more problems for Tegan to confront, and her future is uncertain as she runs away from the other vampires who will soon go after her for her power-giving blood.
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May 13, 2021“It was a fun and fast read!”
~ Under the Covers
It should come as no surprise that here I sit excited about a new series by L.H. Cosway. But it’s especially exciting because 1 – it’s paranormal romance! And 2 – this is a re-release of an old series that’s been on my TBR ever since I discovered Ms. Cosway. So how did NIGHTFALL stack up to my PNR expectations? It was a fun and fast read!
Our heroine has no idea that she is more than human until she’s thrusted into the supernatural world after an encounter with a vampire and her resistance to his mind control and compulsion. Slowly, she discovers more and more about other types of supernaturals and how she fits in with them because of her past.
This is book 1 and it gives us the start of the world building and the romance. I always love an L.H. Cosway hero and Ethan was certainly alluring. Even though he won’t dethrone any of my current top 5. Tegan is also a solid heroine. The romance is more of a slow burn on the background and NIGHTFALL does a pretty good job at establishing the world and everyone’s role in it while still giving us a hook with our main couple.
While this won’t seem like the most unique paranormal concept and nothing was unpredictable, the writing and the characters definitely carry this story forward and kept me interested in what was going on. Also on the upcoming books in the series. We get a glimpse of supernatural hierarchy and kind of politics and I’m really looking forward to seeing this be explored more and hopefully bring some amazing conflicts later in the series.
Bring on book 2!
Reviewed by Francesca ❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 9, 2012
If you are getting a little tired of reading the typical Paranormal romance book where girl-meets-Vampire and they instantly fall for each other with no rhyme or reason, then Tegan’s Blood may be the little bit of fresh air that you need. It is a refreshing read with a strong character that sticks to her guns and doesn’t allow anyone to push her around, not even a very sexy Vampire named Ethan. Ethan, and all other vampires around her, is instantly attracted to Tegan and she can’t trust that Ethan doesn’t just want her for her blood. There are other worries as well; she has to deal with Witches, Dhamphir’s (half human/ half vampire) and Vampire Slayers, all of whom are very interested in her and all of them could take her life if they find out what she really is.
Throughout the story, Tegan is thrown into a world of unknown chaos and war. She is forced to make one difficult decision after another. Without knowing who to trust, she has to rely strictly on instinct to protect herself and to keep her blood secret. You can almost see that the author, herself, was unsure of what path to choose for her character as she walks a fine line between all opposing sides.
I really appreciated that the author made Tegan seem so realistic. However, the writing style is a little robotic and doesn’t flow as well as I would like. The romance in the story isn’t really there for me, but I think that it is almost done on purpose. You do get a good idea where the main relationship may head in a future book and you do get a good look into her life with other characters as well.
All in all I think that Tegan’s Blood, although it took a little getting used to, was worth it. I am looking forward to the second book in the Ultimate Power Series.
**Reviewed by Rochelle M. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**
Throughout the story, Tegan is thrown into a world of unknown chaos and war. She is forced to make one difficult decision after another. Without knowing who to trust, she has to rely strictly on instinct to protect herself and to keep her blood secret. You can almost see that the author, herself, was unsure of what path to choose for her character as she walks a fine line between all opposing sides.
I really appreciated that the author made Tegan seem so realistic. However, the writing style is a little robotic and doesn’t flow as well as I would like. The romance in the story isn’t really there for me, but I think that it is almost done on purpose. You do get a good idea where the main relationship may head in a future book and you do get a good look into her life with other characters as well.
All in all I think that Tegan’s Blood, although it took a little getting used to, was worth it. I am looking forward to the second book in the Ultimate Power Series.
**Reviewed by Rochelle M. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**
March 2, 2014
Tegan is troubled. The man she loved committed suicide in their home and the guilt and sadness she feels is immense. As she tries to carry out her daily life, she unexpectedly gains the attention of Ethan, a vampire. Her blood is special and a lot of supernatural beings can sense it, putting her in danger.
Tegan's Blood was an interesting book, but lacked originality. Now, I'm not knocking the book for this. It was a good read and I know that coming up with a complex and original plot is challenging in this genre. The characters were entertaining, but they felt a little one-dimensional. Ethan, yeah he's hot, but the author lacked any detailed descriptions as to who he was. Their relationship annoyed me a few times too - one minute she's all over him, the next she's being cold.
Tegan was a hard character to connect with. Her pain was deep, but she was weak. She had a more laid-back personalty, rather then the "kick-ass, let's get this done," type. So, if you want a heroine, look to another story. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it fell flat with regards to uniqueness and suspense. The writing was a little younger and at times clunky, but if you're looking for vampires, mystery and lust... this one is for you!
Tegan's Blood was an interesting book, but lacked originality. Now, I'm not knocking the book for this. It was a good read and I know that coming up with a complex and original plot is challenging in this genre. The characters were entertaining, but they felt a little one-dimensional. Ethan, yeah he's hot, but the author lacked any detailed descriptions as to who he was. Their relationship annoyed me a few times too - one minute she's all over him, the next she's being cold.
Tegan was a hard character to connect with. Her pain was deep, but she was weak. She had a more laid-back personalty, rather then the "kick-ass, let's get this done," type. So, if you want a heroine, look to another story. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it fell flat with regards to uniqueness and suspense. The writing was a little younger and at times clunky, but if you're looking for vampires, mystery and lust... this one is for you!
June 28, 2012
i got this book today because it was free and i have to say if it wasnt free i would of paid for it i started to read the book and i tried to stop buti couldnt its one of those books you start to read and cant stop til its finished i cant wait to start on book 2 but im gonna try to hold off on buying it till this weekend so i have a good book to read cant wait to read it though im also gonna get the other book by this author that isnt in this series i cant rember the name but i love the sample of the book i got
awesome books and great author i rate this book a 6 but since there is only 5 stars i wanted to let you know
awesome books and great author i rate this book a 6 but since there is only 5 stars i wanted to let you know
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