Marie Treanor

I first read Treanor's erotic fairy tale retellings she did with Bonnie Dee, and I enjoyed those quite a bit. When I heard about her paranormal vampire novel, BLOOD ON SILK (first in the Awakened by Blood books), I was interested in seeing how it turned out. The blurb makes it sound a bit more typical of vampire romance then it really is—there's a definite bite (get it?) to this book, a darker undertone that I appreciated all the more because I knew it wasn't a stand alone.

At times things were a little frustrating between Elizabeth and Saloman. There was very little discussion between them at first, much of the 'do it this way!' approach from the both of them. However, little by little, things gave way, and I enjoyed their entanglements.

Saloman's continual threat was felt throughout the novel. It was always there, no matter what joy they felt, no matter what love or passion. He meant what he said—he would kill her. Their conversation in the last chapter is the best indicator for what was truly at stake, their personalities, and possibly my favorite exchange because it was so painfully truthful.

Treanor does give us some levity and humorous moments, such as Elizabeth constantly chiding Saloman and pretty much rolling her eyes at his 'I will kill you!' attitude. He's mystified by her fearless (almost reckless) disregard for the fact he is so much more powerful then she. Then there is also the tutoring sessions Saloman undergoes in order to better understand the modern world. He was entombed three centuries ago, so everything is a marvel to him (and not all in good ways).

In all, this was a dark, intense first entry into a new series I'm intrigued by. The first chapter excerpt for the second book, BLOOD SIN, was a tease given everything that occurs in the last two chapters. Here's hoping things look a bit brighter for Elizabeth and Saloman—though truthfully, I can't see how much worse it can get for them relationship-wise.… (altro)

2.5/5 stars. I'm not 100% sold on this book. I like Serafina, I like her friends/coworkers. I like that she is a psychic but that she also makes part of her living scamming people who deserve it. (And that presumably that money goes toward supporting her when she helps people who need it but can't afford it.) I would have loved to read more about that.

I did like this particular plotline. I mean, vampires modernizing and trying to take over via banking? Yes, please, and why hasn't that ever happened before. I also liked the outcome with a reunited family.

What I didn't like was Blair, the love-interest, the telepathic (because they don't speak, see) vampire. He was also Blair the overbearing and Blair the a bit creepy at times.

I'm going to read the next book, since I already have it, and see how I feel. I'm hoping for more of Serafina's friends and less Blair.

(Provided by publisher)… (altro)

Blood on Silk
5 Stars

Synopsis:
An academic researching Vampire superstition in Romania, Elizabeth Silk is tricked into awakening Saloman, the most seductive and dangerous of the species. Saloman needs Elizabeth’s blood to survive but finds himself inexplicably drawn to her innocence, and the two soon find themselves on opposing sides of an age old conflict between humans and vampires. Which will be victorious?

Review:
The characterization and world building are excellent, and the plot leaves you guessing right up until the end. The book contains elements of paranormal romance but leans more toward the urban fantasy genre with first-rate action scenes and an ongoing storyline revolving around the two main characters.

The chemistry between Saloman and Elizabeth is mesmerizing and their scenes together often left me breathless. Saloman is a traditional vampire and while some readers may find him evil and repulsive with questionable morals, the fact that he is “old-school” adds a captivating intensity to his character as well as an additional dimension to the heroine’s struggle with her feelings for him.

Elizabeth is an intriguing character who must come to terms not only with the knowledge that vampires are real but with the fact that she has a personal stake in Saloman’s resurrection and the danger that he poses to humanity. It is fascinating to see her transformation from a studious academic to a fully-fledged vampire hunter.

The secondary characters are well-developed with singular identities and motivations. They are integrated smoothly into the overall storyline and never feel superfluous.

The writing flows smoothly and it is easy to become immersed in the world Treanor has created. I particularly enjoyed Saloman's backstory and the unique explanation of the origins of vampires. Hopefully more details will be forthcoming in the next book, which is set up nicely in the epilogue.

Overall, Blood on Silk is a compelling and exciting read with provocative and thought-provoking characters and themes.… (altro)