| Title | : | Biting Bad (Chicagoland Vampires, #8) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0451415183 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780451415189 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 350 |
| Publication | : | First published August 6, 2013 |
Anti-vampire riots are erupting all over town, striking vampires where it hurts the most. A splinter group armed with Molotov cocktails and deep-seated hate is intent on clearing the fanged from the Windy City come hell or high water.
Merit and her allies rush to figure out who's behind the attacks, who will be targeted next, and whether there's any way to stop the wanton destruction. The battle for Chicago is just beginning, and Merit is running out of time.
Biting Bad (Chicagoland Vampires, #8) Reviews
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”Word moves quickly,” I said.
“As does violence,” Catcher said. “And we all have our parts to play.”
And here is another one of my “What I liked vs. What I didn’t like” reviews.
As always here’s a short reminder to those of you who didn’t read the former books. Don’t read my review if you don’t know the series, there might be spoilers that would … well, spoil your fun. *lol* This is an official warning, I take no responsibility for trespassing this point. ;-P
What I liked:
- Luc and Lindsey
- Ethan the almighty Darth Sullivan getting all scared because he was called Uncle Ethan! XD
”Ethan didn’t verbally object to being called Uncle Ethan, although he did look a bit paler than usual – a difficult feat for a vampire.”
- Jeff Christopher!!! He’s my hero! <333
We glanced at Jeff, who was now cradling Connor in his unbandaged arm, Tanya looking over them both with a smile.
“He’s a good man,” Gabriel said. “And a good member of our Pack.”
- The still strong friendship between Merit and Mallory. They went through thick and thin together and no matter what they had to deal with, they never gave up! That’s #FriendshipGoals!
”It sucks because you’re trying to do the right thing, but the result isn’t showing it. You’re at the stage where good intentions meet crappy abilities. Welcome to my first eleven months as a vampire.”
“You’ve only been a vampire for ten months.”
“My point exactly.”
- Gabriel!!! Haha! I love that alpha male! <33 He knows exactly how to push Ethan’s buttons and I live for it! XD
”That, Merit, is a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL with a brand-new V8 and about 350 horsepower. It is the car Ethan would stake a vamp to drive, pardon the expression. And I’m going to let you borrow it.”
- Catcher, I really like that boy. There’s some defiance in him that is utterly charming. *lol*
”I'm not going to kill them," Catcher said. "Incapacitating them will be enough. And it's a creative venture that I'm going to enjoy. With gusto."
What I didn’t like:
- McKetrick. I really hate that guy and that’s never going to change. *shakes head* And I don’t like that he’s such a flat character. I mean he hates vampires. Okay, but please I need more depth than that. Hate just isn’t enough there’s got to be more motivation behind his actions.
- The thin plot. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed this book as much as I enjoyed all the others but I think the plotline could have been more well-thought-out. It just didn’t do for me.
- Harold Monmonth and the GP. This plotline has been going on too long already! We all know the GP only has morons as their leaders. If you ask me they all should bestakedreplaced or at least brought into the new century. Because they apparently still live in another time in which they obviously could afford to be so stupid. Such a useless, unworldly association. *shakes head*
Of course “Biting Bad” was still a page turner and I flew through it in no time. Still, I really hope some of those issues will be addressed soon. XD -
Just as Merit is trying to have a normal dinner at her favorite pizza place with Mallory, all hell breaks loose. Humans are rioting against vampires and have thrown Molotov cocktails at a business that makes Blood4You. Unfortunately, they don't stop there.
I know I've said it before...and I'll just have to keep saying it ~ I just love Ethan and Merit. They never get old, boring or dull for me. Heck, the whole book could be just about them eating and sleeping and I would LOVE it. Well, okay...maybe I would need a little more than that but you get the picture.
That being said, this book is a bit tamer than some of the recent ones and I was very happy. I needed to read about Ethan and Merit doing normal, everyday things. That doesn't mean that they got to sit around! CN would never allow anything that frivolous!
Ethan and Merit are thrown right into the drama of the humans that want a "Clean Chicago". Merit has a hard time directing her thoughts away from the evil John McKetrick and towards the responsible parties. There was some good drama and some bad but I did enjoy the whole spin that unfolded. I think it gave Merit some peace.
It's always great reading a series where all the other characters are just as interesting as the main ones. And I think just about everyone is involved...and necessary in some capacity. Ethan and Merit even get the pleasure of having dinner at Merit Manor!
Have I mentioned I love Ethan and Merit? ;) I love all their little interactions, the Valentine Day theme, the Sentinel and Liege relationship, "moneypenny", roses in the snow, chocolate torte, new leathers, and the future together...always. ~sigh~
A lot of things clicked back into place in this book. It felt like the quiet before the storm. I have a slight idea where things are going but I can't wait to see what CN will come up with next. The blurb for Wild Things sounds really intriguing. I'm sooo ready for more shifters but first I'm looking forward to the short about Lindsey in Kicking It and of course, MORE Jeff in Howling For You.
Favorite quotes:
♦ “Little help,” I said to Catcher.
“Vampire fail,” he muttered."
♥ “Sometimes you make me swoon.”
“If it’s only sometimes, I’m not doing my job adequately.”
♥ “I’m rarely good, Merit. But I’m often spectacular.”
♥ “I have eternal life,” he said. “But you are my undying passion.” ♥ -
Spoilers
Boring. The plot was the run off the mill 'silly human hate group targets vampires for cliched and cheesy reasons, riots and lame investigation follows.'
It was all so dull and unimaginative. Ugh.
Random thoughts:
-Merit was such a Mary Sue. She had very little personality and everything she said or did was predictable. Also, any time she was melodramatic or overly emotional it made me either cringe or roll me eyes. Basically, Merit was so bland that whenever she had any over the top emotions it seemed really awkward/funny/weird. Also, I laughed out loud whenever she got in warrior mode — she just wasn't a convincing badarse.
-I find it ridiculous that Merit has never had a serious, loving relationship before Ethan. She was 28 when she was turned, surely she must have had at least a couple of serious relationships?
Why must all heroines be virginal or have little relationship experience before meeting the hero? It's boring and unrealistic that all these supposedly attractive, smart, desired, nice, 20 something year old heroines haven't had one decent guy that wanted them and vice versa.
What makes it even more annoying is that the hero always has loads of meaningful relationships before the heroine. Ethan has had quite a few significant and loving relationships, Merit is just the newest one.
Ugh, I hate the cliched dynamics between heroes and heroines in UF and PNR. The double standards are sickening.
-I was sick of hearing about Merit's stupid katana.
-This was the eighth book in the series and apparently a year hasn't even passed. I can't take Merit's vampire life and speshul snowflake abilities seriously when she's still a baby vamp. Also, Ethan and Merit's supposedly epic love seems silly since they've only known each other properly for a couple of months.
-The summary of past events/every character in the series annoyed me. This was book 8, I already know who's who and what's what.
-I wish Ethan and everyone else would stop calling Merit 'Sentinel'. Yea, that's her title but she still has a name.
-Merit, Ethan, Catcher and co were really bad at investigating. Why didn't they get suspicious about not receiving the CCTV footage they requested from the warehouse? Why didn't they demand to get it sooner? Why were the vampires all so dumb about it?
-I wanted more scenes with Merit's family. I also wanted more interaction between Merit and Mallory. In the last eight books all Merit has really cared about is Ethan and her vampire problems. She needs to concentrate on her family and friends, maybe that'll give her some much needed depth.
-I rolled my eyes at Merit talking about what an outsider she was in her own family. Yea, heaven forbid we have a heroine fitting in anywhere until she meets the hero. Ugh.
-In one scene Merit was talking to Jonah on her phone in a room full of vampires with super hearing about top secret stuff. Wouldn't they have heard everything? Wouldn't they realise that Jonah and her were RG? Was there some kind of vampire etiquette to not listen to other people's phone conversation? And if so why would she still trust everyone to respect that etiquette? Especially when she and Ethan have been stung before by the vamps in their House. It was just dumb that Merit held a conversation about secret RG things in a place where she could easily be overheard.
-Ethan's speeches and words of wisdom were so lame. It seemed like he was trying too hard to be an enigmatic and inspirational leader. Ethan's character lacked the charm and charisma to be a believable leader.
-I rolled my eyes at most of Ethan's scene — he just seemed like a child playing dress up. IDK, there was something so forced about his character.
-Why did Merit only have one set of leather clothes when she needed to wear them ALL THE BLOODY TIME? She kept moaning about them getting damaged and not having anything else to wear on her missions. So why the fuck didn't she just buy a couple of back ups? The leather outfit was basically her day to day clothes, it was disgusting that she only had the one pair.
-The big fight scene and confrontation with McKetrick at the end was lame.
-I loved when Merit told that vampire from Grey House that she wouldn't apologise for not wanting Jonah. I hate that any time a women turns down a guy who has feelings for them, they're instantly labeled as heartless or bitches or users or a tease. It pissed me off that the Grey guard was acting like Merit did something wrong for not returning Jonah's feelings. I'm glad she put that cow in her place.
-There were way too many mentions of food.
-What happened to that Robin woman or whatever her name was? Why did she act so shifty when Merit and Catcher talked to her?
-The GP stuff was boring. I'm sick of their cartoony threats and bratty behaviour. I hope all the Chicago Houses tell them to fuck off, and they're never seen again. Fuckers.
-I'm really really pissed that Gabe's prophecy still hasn't been explained. It's been about 5 books since it was mentioned — why hasn't that arc been bought up again?
All in all, not impressed. Merit was so boring, the other characters were dull, and everything was oh so predictable. -
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Fuck. Me.*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Re-read: 04.02.2018
Skimming. Yes you heard me. I'm skimming a book that used to be one of my favorites. I am doomed. Like really, really doomed. I hate that I have changed so dammed much. I'm supposed to love this series, for god's sake! Ugh, fuck me.
The characters:
— Caroline ‘Merit’ ‘Mer’ Evelyn Merit (becomes vampire at 27, but is 28 in years), Sentinel of the Cadogan House.
— Ethan ‘Liege’ ‘Darth Sullivan’ Sullivan (394, though became a vampire at 30), master of the Cadogan House —> dead, but is back from the dead.
— Mallory ‘Mal’ Delancey Carmichael (28), Merit's bestfriend and a fourth-class sorcerer, a master of the First Key; power.
— Charles ‘Chuck’ Merit (in his sixties), Merit's grandfather is the Ombudsman; a ‘liaison’ between the regulars and the sups.
— Chuck's team:
↳ ∘ his secretary, Marjorie (50),
↳ ∘ the computer prodigy and a shape-shifter, Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Christopher (21),
↳ ∘ a fourth-class sorcerer and a master of the Second Key; weapons, Catcher Bell (29),
↳ ∘ and there's also a Housed vampire who works for him that not even his colleagues knows about.
— Joshua Merit, Merit's dad sucky dad.
— guard of the Cadogan House, Lindsey (115) and who is also a psychic, and a good friend to Merit. Also dating Lucas.
— Lucas ‘Luc’,the Captain of the Cadogan House guards, now House Second; back to being Captain.
— Malik Washington,Second, House Cadogan, now Master of Cadogan House, until Ethan takes back leadership; back to being Second.
— Morgan Greer, Master of Navarre House, (72, though looks 28) Merit's sorta ex and a weak man.
— Gabriel ‘Gabe’ Keene, Apex of the Central North American, Jeff's pack leader (love him).
— Darius West, head of the Greenwich Presidium and a total dick.
— Seth Tate (36), former mayor of Chicago and a fucker. A part of him, that is; His twin brother Dominic was evil and lived inside of him. Seth is technically good. He's .
— Scott Grey, Master of Grey House.
— Noah Beck, the leader of Chicago’s independent vampires and a Red Guard ‘RG’ (a vampire Secret Service, of sorts).
— Jonah, the Guard Captain, Grey House and a Red Guard, has a crush on Merit.
— Franklin Theodore Cabot, was the appointed receiver of Cadogan House (Darius West, head of the GP, had decided he didn’t like the way the House was run, “Frank” had been sent to Chicago to inspect and evaluate the House). He sucked big time.
— Berna, shifter, and ended bar and worked the kitchens at Little Red (the Ukrainian Village watering hole where the Pack hung out in Chicago).
— Diane Kowalcyzk, Chicago’s new mayor.
— ‘John Q.’ McKetrick, a former military type with a raging hatred of vampires. He now the head of the Office of Human Liaisons, or OHL.
— Michael Donovan, was the House Cadogan's security auditor (in book #7). A Rough, who turned out to be evil.“Are you proposing?” I drowsily asked.
“When I propose, you’ll know it.”
My heart stuttered, pushing me awake again. “When? What do you mean ‘when’?”
“I stand by my statement,” Ethan said, opening the box and handing it over.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy.
Series: - Series, Book Eight.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Ethan ‘Liege’ ‘Darth Sullivan’ Sullivan.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Yes?
New Rating - 3 stars.
First read review:
Chloe Neill never disappoints!
This books was awesome, and i loved every part of it!:D
Merit and Ethan is so perfect for each other!! i adore and love them so freaking much! They are so cute, and the love for each other.. it's just...
Ethan, with his sexy mouth, body and eyes.. i think i fell even more in love with him after this book! He's just soo.. dreamy!
I cannot wait for the next book! I hate that we have to wait so freaking looong! :|
Rate: 4.5 stars -
Now that is a cliffhanger if I have ever seen one! And a delicious one at that! (Yes, I'm the weird one out... I love a good cliffy!) But luckily the next book is out so I only have to stew for a little while!
The book had a weak start but it definitely picked up along the way! Not my favorite in the series but a very good addition overall. -
I feel like she's going to get pregnant. It's just a thought. But....it seems like that's where this is going since the last book. And I find that to be really awesome.
Update: So it didn't happen but there's always the future...
And I was slightly disappointed in this book. I loved all the fluffy Methan time but I feel like Merit is usually much tougher then this. I don't know, maybe I wanted her to not be constantly choked out or easily hurt. But alas, I must wait for the next one.
new update 2014:
I was so right! they finally broached the subject of what those eyes meant! I feel so relieved! -
Reviewed by:
Rabid Reads
Biting Bad was reminiscent of the earlier Chicagoland Vampires novels and I for one couldn’t be happier! The first three installments are what hooked me on this series and this latest one has ensured that I’ll continue reading these books for a long time to come, especially with all of the promising new novellas that are already in the pipeline. This novel is Ethan/Merit drama free which was a huge relief because readers can now actually focus on Chloe Neill’s phenomenal writing style and storytelling skills instead of their relationship woes.
The first thing that stood out for me about this book were the recaps; Neill does an excellent job of filling in any memory blanks readers may have while still weaving in new plot threads at the same time. After the first chapter I was able to easily get my bearings in Chicagoland which allowed me to seamlessly reenter this world as though no time had elapsed between installments. I was also so thankful that Neill established within the first one hundred pages that Ethan and Merit were not going to be at odds in this story. This made it feel as though a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders because in the last few books I was always waiting for the other shoe to drop; both of these elements allowed me to just sit back and enjoy the ride worry-free.
I loved how much attention Neill paid to the characters’ surroundings in this book; she knows both Chicago and its winters well, and it shows. I live in Canada and I’m pretty used to the cold but even I got sympathy chills while reading about the city’s frigid temperatures. This novel has a lot of little extras like that and I do like an author with a keen eye for details! Merit’s socialite status is becoming ever more important as this series progresses and I enjoyed how in this installment she has designers vying for her attention in an attempt to be THE fashion designer of choice for vamps. Our Sentinel isn’t usually overly fond of pretty things but even she liked the custom dress. I also had to Google what a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL looks like because of the fun back-and-forth between Ethan and Gabe. Now I understand why Mr. Sullivan had car envy!
Ethan and Merit are great in this installment; they have finally reached a happy place in their relationship and I couldn’t help but breathe a huge sigh of relief. In the midst of the city going to Hell they are still trying to have a “normal” Valentine’s Day and I LOVED THAT! Catcher and Mallory are on the mends as well; I’m so happy that the Chicagoland Vampires are becoming one big happy family again. They have enough drama in their lives without having to take it from each other as well. The bad guy was obvious but Neill still makes you work for it in a roundabout way and no installment in this series would be complete without… you guessed it, a cliffhanger! But it’s nowhere near as bad as some of Chloe’s previous ones have been so you can rest easy.
I don’t have one single complaint where Biting Bad is concerned. I absolutely loved this book from start to finish; this is the installment that I have been waiting for. Chloe Neill is back on top and her Chicagoland Vampires are better than ever!
-
5 Stars! Now that's the way to move a series forward! Chloe Neill kicked it up a notch and there is new life among the living dead!! I blew through this book!!
The one thing I absolutely loved about this book...Ethan and Merit are SOLID!! For the first time since this series started, these two trust and love each other without question! No wavering whatsoever!! I was happy to see them close this chapter in their relationship, no more discord, and move forward together, and I hope the author keeps it that way. I want to see them continue to work as a team, like they did in Biting Bad. It's been a long time coming, and it needs to stay that way, they have a future together and the choices they made in this book prove what an awesome couple they are!!
This book doesn't just focus on Cadogen House, it involved Grey House and lots of characters that we've gotten to know and love. It was good to see things branch out, especially with the shifter involvement, there is something about Gabriel, we don't know much about him, but he adds so much to this series, I want more of him. He's so strong, but kind and caring, and I love that he's the one helping Mallory with her 'magic addiction'. We did however get a pretty good dose of Jeff and Catcher, and some resolution to Merit and Mallory's friendship. It's a work in progress, and has a way to go, but it's such an integral part of the series and it needs mending. Oh my and Jonah...I know it wasn't meant to be with Merit, but in all honesty if it had happened, I think I would have been okay with it...no, no...she is meant to be with Ethan, forget I said that. I hope Jonah finds someone soon, my heart hurts for him.
Ethan finally shows us what he is all about, what he's willing to do to protect his people, why he is a Master vampire...he's earned that title... and it was awesome! He didn't just sit back and direct from the command room, he was in the mix fighting with and for his woman. Merit is no slouch either and proves why she is House Sentinal! Fans of Ethan and Merit will love it, and it was the direction this series needed to take.
I am overjoyed that not only is Jeff's novella,
Howling For You, going to be released in January, 2014, right on its heels will be,
Wild Things. Now if we could get a novella for Gabriel, I would be an even happier camper! -
No more. This was my last Chicago Vampire series book. They just keep getting worse.
This hasn't reached LKH level of fandom-violation, but this book & one of the first three of this series have very little in common.
It was so lackluster in holding my attention that I decided to take a break to go pick up dog poop from the back yard right as Ethan & Merit arrive at her parents house for dinner. How bad is that?
Ms Neill is turning this series into mostly relationship drama & Merit into a wimp heroine that always needs rescuing.
Isn't Merit supposed to be a badass???
I found the plot to be very loose & the suspense & story arc were more of a story garnish. Story spritzing over all the relationship talk & discussions. -
I love the Chicagoland Vampires series - I'm on a mission to finish the series before the spin off comes out sometime next year.
-
Out of nowhere, a faction of humans in the city began rioting against the presence of vampires in the city. As the supernaturals begin strategizing on how to manage the situation, the company supplying the vampires with their non-human blood is attacked, severely damaging the building and inventory. Merit and Ethan suspect something more is at play when the next strike hits close to home. And, the General Presidium is acting up again (big surprise).
One of the best scenes in this story involves Ethan at his fighting finest. It was especially satisfying because these vamps so often seem to get their butts kicked by the humans in this city. There's so much going on involving politics between the humans, the GP and other vamps. Of course, our man McKetrick is again in the thick of things. We also get to see lots of relationship interplay, bringing a nice balance to the action side.
This is one of the best stories to date and I'm really loving Sophie Eastlake's performance. There's a bit of a conundrum at the end (not technically a heavy cliffhanger), just enough to tease me into the next book, not that I needed that because the series seems to finally be surpassing my expectations. -
After a few rather disappointing installments, I’m happy to report that the Chicagoland series seems to have taken an upward turn. A significant improvement was noticeable in House Rules, but with Biting Bad, we’re right back on track. This eighth installment is just as good as the first two and it decidedly proves that the series has a lot more to give.
In terms of plot, Biting Bad offers more of the same, but it’s a recipe that undoubtedly works. Merit and Ethan face enemies both human and vampire, all equally dangerous. There is no downtime, no rest for the Cadogan house, and consequently, no time for our favorite couple to just enjoy each other’s company. They have to defend against everything from bombs to power plays, but at least they do it together.
It was strange, but oddly comforting to see Merit bested by a much older and much stronger vampire. Urban fantasy heroines tend to win against all odds, which can be almost ridiculous sometimes, but Chloe Neill steered clear of that trap while keeping her heroine strong and believable at the same time. I found myself smiling at Merit’s defeat and her need to be rescued by her liege because all of the sudden, I wasn’t seeing a UF protagonist, I was seeing Merit in flesh and blood, strong but vulnerable, smart but not all-powerful.
In addition, Neill finally took this where Patricia Briggs and Ilona Andrews went before her: there is no more unnecessary tension and second thoughts between Merit and Ethan. They face challenges together, and they do it wonderfully, as a real couple should. It’s them against the world and it works so well, it almost brought me to tears.
The only thing I find odd at this point in the series is the short time span in which these eight books happened. Ten months seem ridiculously short when one remembers everything that happened to Merit and Ethan, and with this detail in mind, their relationship and Merit’s strength lose some of its value and plausibility.
If you decide to start this series, or just catch up, forgive Neill and Merot for those two weaker installments. Keep in mind that things get infinitely better and just keep reading until they do. Chicagoland deserves your patience.
-
I will add quotes later, when I'm not swamped with work and don't feel really sick and gross. This series is too amazing to simply slap a star rating on without a little show and tell of why I love it so....
I'll be back. Again, when I can type more than a few words without a mess-up. -
It took a while for me to really get into this series but I am happy that I didn’t give up!!
Right now, I am loving the Chicagoland Vampires world that’s filled with some of the most quirky, original and funny characters ever….and a very unforgettable, classy and sexy vampire named Ethan Sullivan!!!!
“I’m rarely good, Merit. But I’m often spectacular.”
I want Ethan as my boyfriend!!! Please make me a vampire!!!!
And not forgetting the memorable Merit!! Yes!! I own up!!! From finding her very irritating in the first books, she has developed into the most unexpected sword-wielding kick-ass, funny, loyal, sexy and delightful food lover black leather-clad vampire ever!
Book #8 begins with Merit and Mallory trying to repair their friendship after the bad fall-out of Mallory’s dabble into black magic. During their dinner, they are attacked by an anti-vampire mob, which may be linked to the supernatural’s biggest enemy,
McKetrick.
In the midst of this, Cadogan House has been declared an outcast and enemy of the GP, who declares that no other vampire House may have anything to do with them.
But Ethan Sullivan is no wimp!!! He comes to the aid of Grey House, after it’s been attacked by human mobs and offers them help, regardless of the consequences.
I enjoyed learning more about Grey House and its members. Also Merit is getting more involved with the RG and Jonah.
Apart from a prophecy by Gabriel, the Apex shifters leader about Ethan and Merit, which we are left hanging in the air about……most of the problems in this story are resolved by the end of the book.
The character development is really good. The more I get to know them the more I like and engage with them and their lives.
They are so real and I can relate to their everyday lives…..they don’t fly around and bite humans….they feel almost human with a few differences.
Also I really like the way Ethan & Merit’s relationship is going.‘Sentinel, you are always the most beautiful woman in the room, irrespective of what you’re wearing. And most especially and preferably when you’re wearing nothing at all.”
I particularly loved the scene where they go a family dinner at Merit’s parent’s home. The dialogue was so funny and cute.“Sentinel, you are always the most beautiful woman in the room, irrespective of what you're wearing. And most especially and preferably when you're wearing nothing at all.”
Speaking about dialogue……….it’s absolutely fabulous. Not only between Ethan and Merit…which has a grin on my face most of the time….but the secondary characters. Luc & Lacey, Mallory & Catcher, Jeff……….“Hey, better than the real thing,” I said. “What do you even do with a chimera?”
“What wouldn’t you do with a chimera?” Jeff asked. “They’re like the Swiss Army knife of animals.”
“Party in the front, business in the back,” Catcher agreed.
That earned a snort and laugh from me. “Any animal that can be compared to a mullet is a good animal in my book.”Chicago is really brought to life in the way the author writes about. I feel as if I am getting a city tour and becoming familiar with places, roads, freeways, buildings.
This has become a really refreshing and enjoyable paranormal romance with shades of urban fantasy series for me. -
It's a lot of the same as in previous books but I still enjoy them.
-
Originally posted at
Reading Rainblog
Let me start by saying that I have been a fan of the Chicagoland Vamps since Some Girls Bite – and this may be my most favorite (I am totally fan-girling) book of the bunch so far. And, no, I don’t just say that when each book comes out – before this, my favorite was Hard Bitten (even though I hated the end – why Chloe, why?!?).
I absolutely, completely adored Merit & Ethan in this book. Ethan especially. Merit was her usual kick-ass, snarky self, but Ethan has game…and boy did he bring it. I have now decided that my husband needs to be just like Ethan. The 394 year old Vamp that looks like Beckham shouldn’t be hard to pull off right? *Sigh* I’ll just keep imagining that I can make that happen!
This series has come such a long way, and it feels like it’s been years in Chicagoland time, when in reality it’s been less than a year. In fact, as Merit tells Mallory:
“You’re at the stage where good intentions meet crappy abilities. Welcome to my first eleven months as a vampire.”
“You’ve only been a vampire for ten months.”
“My point exactly.”
I am so glad that Merit and Mallory are working on getting their friendship back. It’s one of my favorite parts of the book. I don’t have a best friend like Mallory, so getting to live vicariously through Merit is awesome! I also loved the Merit/Ethan relationship in this one. I was so happy there was no relationship drama between the two of them in this book. There has been so much back and forth between Merit and Ethan, and they are due a little bit of a respite. I loved Ethan before Biting Bad, but I really, really loved Ethan after reading this book. He is definitely swoon-worthy! My favorite Ethan quote? This one:
“Take home a message to Darius West. He gets his House in order or we do it for him.”
and, best Ethan/Merit quote (that won’t give anything away – although, make sure you read Chapter 10!)
“Haven’t you ever cried when you, I don’t know, you get a new batch of fancy stationery you like with the watermarks on it?”
He looked bewildered, “That’s what you think I’d cry tears of relief about?”
“You do like your office supplies.”
and, one more – most swoon-worthy:
“For my parents?”
“For your parents, your siblings, your nieces and nephews,” he said. “For you. Because I want to make a good impression.”
“You’ve met my parents before.”
“I have,” he said, and met my eyes in the mirror. “But not like this.”
I may have a slight obsession with Darth Sullivan. But, if those quotes don’t make you run out and buy the book on August 6th, there’s something wrong with ya!
Chloe does a great job making you be able to imagine everything going on in the book. I swear, it could play like a movie in my head while I’m reading. I’ve never been to Chicago, but I would be able to find my way around Hyde Park, Navy Pier, and many other areas just by the way she describes things. And, she does a wonderful job getting us into Merit’s head, while letting us get to know the other characters intimately as well. We found out so much more about Scott Grey in this installment, and I really don’t like Morgan in this book. I’m not English, but what an arse! He started to redeem himself in Biting Cold, but he really regressed in this book. I am so disappointed in him!
The GP – oh, the GP! They are up to their usual shenanigans in this book, but with a twist that I totally didn’t see coming, and may have just put me in a stupor for a little while. You know the kind, the “OMG, what the hell just happened?” kind of stupor. The one that most books need more of!
I could be here forever touching on spots in this book, or I could just type out the whole thing for you. But, I won’t – I don’t need Chloe coming after me ! So much about this book is worth mentioning in a review. Gabriel’s paternal nature with Connor, Saul – of Saul’s Pizza (Merit + Food – need I say more?), Luc moments, Merit & Ethan, Merit & Jonah, the Ombuddies, the list goes on and on. And, Chloe Neill did it again with a scene that makes your heart jump to your throat, and your stomach drop to your toes. This book was absolute non-stop romance, never-ending action & angst, and lots of laughing until you cry. I definitely give it 5 stars.
Now, I’m going to leave you and try to turn my hubby into an Ethan Sullivan clone – but he’ll probably just kick soccer balls at my head all night. -
"Anything I need to know before we go in there?...Is Buffy the Vampire Slayer her personal savior?"
"Because that would bum you out?"
"The slaying part would, yeah. Not the Joss part. We all love Joss."
And then Merit gets her ass kicked by a middle-aged woman. Human woman.
As a matter of fact, Merit gets her ass kicked a lot in this book. It made me happy. *evil laugh* Because Merit was getting a little too cocky in the last book. A brand new vampire, and yet she was suddenly the baddest badass in Badass Town. It was annoying.
So, in this book we have vampire hate groups causing trouble. Nothing like an angry mob to mess up your Valentine's Day.
where do you even get those torches? Is there a torch store in the mall?
The angry mob hate group targets the factory that packages blood for the vamps first, then they target another of the Houses- Grey House, and then they hit Grandpa's home. Factory- okay. Vamp Frat house - fine. But, going after the old guy with cataracts? Oh, it's on!! Bring out the can of whoop-ass because the vamps are opening it NOW!
There is some fun in this book. The Grey House vampires come to stay at Cadogan House (Merit & Ethan's) since theirs burned down, so we get a vampire slumber party. Plus, we get a lot of Jonah, who is another favorite character. Also, there are the usual funny lines about Ethan, or Darth Sullivan, as he is also known.
Mallory: "The thing is, he's just so..."
"Stodgy?" I offered.
"Old," she said. "Four hundred years old, or something?"
...
When Merit is trying to explain tears of relief and joy to Ethan:
"Haven't you ever cried when you, I don't know, you get a new batch of that fancy stationery you like with the watermarks on it?"
He looked bewildered. "That's what you think I'd cry tears of relief about?"
"You do love your office supplies."
Ethan closed his eyes and shook his head. "This conversation has taken an indecipherable turn..."
Yeah, he's a little stuffy. And old. Really really old.
To me, this book was a bit better than the last one. Merit was slightly less annoying. The "mystery" was slightly less cheesy. Well, except that the villains always have a way of confessing at the end of these things too. It's a little Scooby-Dooish. There was still some political garbage, but it at least had less meetings and more action. An improvement. Hopefully that means that I won't be torturing myself by continue reading this series. -
Biting Bad is not lacking in humor, nor excitement or even romance, however, I'm still having a little trouble with trust when it comes to Chicagoland...
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog
(un)Conventional Bookviews -
Cadogan House has just received news that they have been blacklisted by the GP. This means that no other house under the GP may have contact with them or they will receive harsh penalties. Merit and Ethan are drawn into a new mystery when an anti-vampire riot breaks out in Chicago and a business is nearly destroyed by fire. As they try to discover who is behind the riot, another one takes place. This time Grey House is destroyed and their vamps have no place to go. Ethan offers Scott Grey and his vampires shelter, much to the chagrin of the GP. Now Grey House vamps join with Cadogan to ascertain the culprit behind the riots.
I just love this series. I feel like I'm visiting friends when I'm reading one of these books. Of course, these friends always have some kind of turmoil going on. There is always a mystery to solve. There is always someone (many someones) who want to bring them down.
Along with the usual cast of Cadogan vamps, we get to know a little more about Scott Grey and Grey House. We also see the GP's reaction to Cadogan coming to Grey's rescue. I love the vampire politics in this series. I also liked the romance in this story. It's Valentine's Day, but who has time? Merit and Ethan try to make the holiday special, even though they're in crisis mode. What more could you ask for? My rating: 4.5 Stars. -
WOW!!!
Another nail biting episode in the life of Merit....
This book seemed filled with so many things going on, I couldn't wait to turn the pages... we already knew who the main culprit would be but it doesn't stop you wondering how, why, when and where.... this book caught up with me and tears spilled at one point... it was lump in the throat kind of stuff completely!!!
I love the way Mallory is once again becoming Mallory.... I love Jonah, I was gutted for him at one point but I'm sure things will pan out for him, or it had better or I'll have to step in!
Ethan and Merit sailed through this book without the general break ups and gaps, this was a pleasant change and it gave me a chance to see them as a proper couple.... I loved it!!
Still not happy with Merit's dad and I'm sure that darling brother of hers is going to match the father stride for stride... trouble all the way...
Love Jeff.... Love Merit's grandfather.... Love the characters BUT I hate the fact I now have to wait for the next release.... *rolls eyes* I need to step into the future!!!
Great cliff hanger but not the same as the rest... still dying to know what will happen!!! -
It's not that I don't like the series.
I used to be such a big fan of it, but lately I was barely able to finish the last books.
And this one just did it for me. I'm quitting the series, it pains me so badly, but I won't read any more books in it ever again.
I guess I just kept hoping it would become once again what it used to, but it never did.
I don't even think I'll write a review. It would not be fair as I didn't actually finish the book. Sorry Chloe Neill, I really did try. -
EDIT*
That cover is beautiful. Just beautiful.
In fact, when I saw it I was like:
_____________________________________________________________
06/09/2012
August 2013 !
YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYY (:
Over & Out, T xx -
I finished last night with happy tears in my eyes, one of my favorite things about books. Unsurprisingly, I loved this book. Great plot that kept me guessing until the end, discarding theories along the way. Development of storylines that have been hanging out there, including meeting characters we've only heard about. Set up for lots more Chicagoland shenanigans. And completely swoon-worthy Methan-times. It was everything that I want in a CLV book.
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4 Stars... With riots breaking out over Chicago caused by an uproar of humans against vampires, Ethan and Merit must protect their own and the delicate balance with humans while maintaining the integrity of the Cadogan House... As the story unfolds and the true nature of the riots are revealed, Ethan and Merit are forced to consider the cost of their immortality both individually and as a couple... The premise of this story is used to reflect the losses and gains that Merit suffered when turned against her will and the active choices she faces in present day with the impact of modern technology... Intriguing premise set in the action packed nature of this series giving the story a healthy momentum and interesting twists:)
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This is most definitely my least favourite instalment in this series. As much as it pains me to admit it, Biting Bad was actually quite a disappointment for me. I was about to give the book a 3-star rating but just couldn’t do it. I love Merit and this series so much I settled for a 3.5 which turned into a 4… A bit silly I know but Chicagoland Vampires is one of my many weaknesses.
I realized something was missing here after reading the first few chapters. I found the book, well, a bit boring actually. Chloe Neill uses the same plot mechanisms as in the other books and I guess it’s getting a bit old. But it wasn’t until I reached a particular scene towards the end of the book that I realized what this instalment lacked: memorable scenes! ACTION! FIGHTS! EXCITEMENT! Some Kate Daniels-like gruesome battles would have been awesome actually (what can I say? I love the gore and violence, har har!). The resolution of the investigation and the ending of the story were a bit anti-climatic for me.
It’s too bad really because, apart from that, I really enjoyed the book. I like the plotline and the investigation and I love love love Merit & Ethan together. I love the dialogues, the characters… So yes, with more action, this pretty much would have been a perfect read for me.
Despite its shortcomings, Biting Bad still calls for a list of random awesomeness (aka things I loved about the book):
Everything Methan obviously (I know most readers were grateful for the lack of drama between them in this instalment but an argument or two would have succeed things up a bit, at least for me!). Merit & Catcher investigating together. Merit & Mallory trying to bond again (I still prefer Lindsey to Mallory though and we definitely don't get to see enough of her in Biting Bad). Berna! Merit at McKetrick’s town hall meeting. Gabe, Merit and the Mercedes (I love Merit’s arrival at Cadogan and the ensuing scene with Ethan & Luc). Luc quoting the Godfather and Ethan having no idea what he is talking about. Cadogan slumber party! Scott, Ava and the kids (we hardly see them together but I like the idea all the same). The librarian being unhappy that so many vampires are breathing carbon dioxide into his beloved books. The chef’s knife jokes. Uncle Ethan! And what I loved most about this book:
I think part of my disappointment with Biting Bad comes from the fact that I’ve been reading the books in this series back to back, one awesome instalment after the other. Biting Bad came as a full stop somehow and it broke the rhythm for me. It didn’t feel as gut-wrenching or emotionally draining as the other Chicagoland books.
Up next for me is Howling for You, a novella staring Jeff. I’m thinking it will do me good to stay away from the main series for a few days and breathe some fresh air outside Cadogan House. :) -
Review originally posted on my blog:
A Book Obsession..
Even though Merit's tenure as one of the undead has been for a relatively small amount of time, she's been through an incredible amount in that short time. Despite their best efforts to live in harmony with the living citizens of their beloved Chicago, not everyone is happy to have them in their city. So, it's not much of a surprise when vampire hating riots start popping up and destroying vamp friendly areas one location at a time. So, Merit and the rest of the Cadogan house are stuck in a scramble to find out who is organizing these strikes before all of Chicago burns, humans and vamps alike.
Something I've really grown to love about this story is that each book has it's own plot and current "mess" for the vampires going on. However, there also is the larger overall plot with the GP going on as well, which I think really ties the series together strongly. Most of the book is taken up by that main plot, in this case, the vampire riots, but interwoven into things is the political problems with the GP. And boy let me tell you, this time they ended on a doozey, that will surely make things rather interesting in the next installment, I'm sure. But getting back to BITING BAD's main plot of the riots, I was impressed with the pacing of this issue. In some of the previous installments it did feel like the plot/investigations dragged at times, but this time around, the wild goose chase seemed to be greatly lessened, which made for a much smoother and evenly paced read.
If you've read my reviews of the previous books in this series, then you know that I am 100% Team Merit and Ethan. In fact, Hard Bitten was one of the hardest books I've ever read due to the devastation. So, even though Ethan came back four installments ago, I'm honestly still waiting for Chloe Neill to pull the rug out from under us again. Granted, it doesn't do good things for my nerves, but I will admit that it keeps me more on my toes, and makes the danger feel more real. However, that being said, I don't think I could handle another devastation like that, so I'm just going to hope my worry is unfounded and enjoy the time between the two of them. And let me tell you, the time between them is absolutely amazing in BITING BAD. They've passed that new couple stage, and now are becoming more comfortable around each other and starting to think about the long haul. I'll admit that the beginning of love is exhilarating, but my favorite fictional romances are the ones we get to see mature over time, and that is exactly the case here. Of course, it does help that Ethan is completely swoon worthy and now has no problem showing his affection for Merit. In fact I cannot count the number of times Merit and myself let out a sigh of swooning over this vampire. There's very few paranormal characters that I would brave their worlds for and Ethan is one of them.
Considering this is the 8th book in the series, I find it rather impressive that things have not gotten stale at all. In fact, almost the opposite is true as each new installment, once finished leaves me incredibly desperate to get my hands on the next book. BITING BAD is no exception. It was a fast paced read that kept me thoroughly engrossed from the very start. Between the high stakes, the intense romance, and the fabulous cast of characters, I cannot recommend this book any higher! Run, do not walk, to snatch this puppy up. Trust me, you won't regret it. -
3.6 stars. Ethan, aka Darth Sullivan, was a very different master vampire in this edition. He was romantic, sarcastic, caring and even compromising. He took Merit's breath, and mine away a few times, once involved getting down on one knee. He had a few fantastic lines one of my favorite was " I'm rarely good Merit. But I'm often spectacular". Oh yes, I agree with that. If he keeps this up his Darth retain could just wither away. He polished his big bad badge when he had an off with his head moment, that was spectacular to read and had me cheering out loud.
Merit, well she spent most of her time be played by Ethan. She said "Ethan Sullivan could play me like a Stradivarius" and he did in may ways. When she wasn't playing house with E-man she was hunting down clues or trying to get close again to her long time gal pal, Mallory. The mystery of who started a riot and why. She also had some family drama that took the couple into normal life zones that was fun to watch them juggle.
Watching the moments between the two of them made the book worth reading. But, I could have missed out on 1/2 of the book, the politics. Arguh, will they ever get toned down. I did skim through many pages of power drama. The mixing of the houses was too brief I thought could have been an interesting little window to delve into. There was a lot of little side stories going on that just fell flat for me, the car, the magical usage, the GP, the disgruntled employee, the riots. The ending was of course a cliffhanger. Do I care enough about what happens to carry on with the series ? I'm on the fence, it is a B rated series for me now I will not rush out to get a copy. It semi missed my reading joy mark.
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Entertaining, but not as great as the last book.
Things that work:
Ethan Sullivan
Learning more about Grey house and Scott.
Merit & Ethan
Things that don't work:
Merit as a vampire
The investigation
The time frame. I really can't believe that it's been a year since book 1.
What I could use more of:
the pack
Gabriel and the prophecy which seems to be forgotten.
Review to come. -
Chicagoland Vampires is one of my favorite paranormal romance/urban fantasy series ever! Unlike Chloe Neill's YA series, which was a big disappointment, this one is fabulous and badass! <3 Biting Bad is installment No. 8 of this series and it actually reminds me a lot of the first books. It has that same vibe and a great unpredictable plot.
“Once upon a time, I tried to have dinner with my best friend, and the apocalypse happened.”
The plot was a major surprise, because I honestly couldn't figure out the turn of events before the characters did. There are Anti-vampires riots all over town that target places connected to vampires and Merit and the gang from Cadogan House start digging for answers. We're in for a lot of action, ass-kicking and suspense, with a well-thought twist that could change dramatically the fate of our characters. But we'll see if the author decides to point the story in that direction in the following books.
“As it turns out, our paranoia has been validated.”
“So I guess I’ll have to respect you now.”
Merit is the same badass heroine I absolutely adore. She's smart and protective. She actually gives a damn about the people that surround her. Merit wears her duty as Sentinel proudly and she takes it very seriously, making sure that the possible threats to Cadogan House don't transform into reality. But she's not a bloodsucking monster like other vampires -- I kinda forgot several times that she's not human. She's basically just a good person with more strength and, of course, snarky lines. In a word, she's awesome.
“My life sucks.”
“It sucks because you’re trying to do the right thing, but the result isn’t showing it. You’re at the stage where good intentions meet crappy abilities. Welcome to my first eleven months as a vampire.”
“You’ve only been a vampire for ten months.”
“My point exactly.”
Ethan Sullivan is the perfect boyfriend! Alpha-male with a sweet side, he's strong, intelligent and deadly, but romantic, funny and thoughtful too. I can't get enough of him!
“Ethan smiled wickedly and pressed a hard kiss to my lips. “I’m rarely good, Merit. But I’m often spectacular.”
The thing I admire most in Ethan is that he puts his House and its vampires on the first place, no matter what. He's a control freak, that much we know, but he's so interested in everyone's well-being! He doesn't rely on manipulation, lies and fear to obtain power -- he earns respect. And he's not shy of making a statement in a violent way to prove a point when it comes to the safety of his people.
Merit and Ethan's relationship is the best thing in these books! Since the initial tension from the first novels, they gradually built to such a great understanding and trust that they're a force to be reckoned with. We're proven again and again that their relationship is solid. The honesty between them and the way they work things out is amazing! It shows us what true love is. Plus, they're really adorable when they tease each other ;)
“I think the blood loss took a toll,” I said.
“Yes, the laceration and your utter unconsciousness clued me in to that.”
I couldn’t help but laugh. “You sound like me. Maybe sarcasm can be transmitted by blood.”
“God forbid,” Ethan said. “You’ve more than enough for both of us.”
We get to reunite with everyone again: Luc, Lindsey, Jonah, Catcher, Mallory, Margot, Jeff, Gabriel, Merit's granddad and other family members. And that's another element that separates these novels from the mediocre ones: the friendships. They play a great role in how the story evolves, because together they make a hell of a team and each one of them have dynamic personalities. Okay, Merit's family isn't such a great thing, but it sure does offer some hilarious moments, especially when Merit and Ethan have to attend dinner with the whole group.
“What’s this?” Luc asked, glancing at it.
“It’s a DVD,” Lindsey said. “It stores videos or information.”
“Hi-larious,” Luc said.”
Of course, there are also the bad characters and in this case, the villains start to annoy me. For example, McKetrick: someone should bloody kill him already! Incognito. I don't care. I just want him dead. And don't let me start on the GP: they're just bad and creepy guys. On my blacklist since they messed with Ethan and Cadogan House.
The ending literally came from nowhere. Seriously. It didn't even cross my mind that such thing could happen. Anyway, I'm excited and anxious to see where Chloe Neill will take the story next, because with so many complications and possibilities for our characters' future, the outcome will be really amazing to experience.
“Scott heard about your grandfather, sends his best wishes. And I think, instead of sending get-well balloons, he sent me to help with the riots.”
I looked at him for a second. “How many balloons would it have been, exactly?”
“Smart-ass,” Jonah said.”
As usual, Chicago is a wonderful setting and the food Merit keeps talking about makes my mouth water. Never read a CV novel on a bare stomach. Not really a quiet experience with your stomach growling, because Merit really does love her food and she describes it in detail. Yummy!
“Couldn’t agree more. We’ll sleep well after this feast. Or we’ll have weird carb coma dreams. Hard to tell.”
Chloe Neill had me devouring every word from this awesome book! Biting Bad was a great follow-up to one of my favorite series! The stakes are higher and the pressure is building constantly. I'm sure the author is going to amaze us with the next novels :) I recommend this series to everyone who enjoys a good book with paranormal elements, mystery, action, humor and swoon-worthy romance. I guarantee they're addictive!
ENJOY!<3 -
4.5 stars !!
Biting Bad is book 8 in the Chicagoland Vampires Series. I absolutely love this series and am so excited that we’ve got another book on the horizon. I can’t seem to get enough of Ethan and Merit.
In this installment, Merit and Ethan are working to get Cadogan House in order. They’ve just flounced the GP and Merit is still working with the Red Guard and now it seems Chicago isn’t feeling so generous and welcoming to Vampires.
A series of dangerous riots targeting places that are associated with Vampires is at the top of the list of mysteries that Merit has to figure out. Add to that, working out issues with her former best friend and moving in with a Master Vampire, and Merit’s got her hands full.
What I love most about these books is that they don’t take themselves too seriously. Chloe Neill writes smart and realistic characters and she does it in a way that makes me wish I was a vampire bunking in Cadogan House.
Merit is strong and witty and absolutely one of my favorite heroines around, and Ethan… well… the man has me sighing in contentment through most of this book!
”"I'm rarely good, Merit. But I'm often spectacular. “
These two together are amazing though. I mean I can help but grin like a fool when he calls her Sentinel and Merit honestly gives just as good right back to Ethan. They have to be one of my favorite PNR couples around.
”Sometimes you make me swoon.”
“If it’s only sometimes, I’m not doing my job adequately.”
I MEAN SERIOUSLY. Though he has had hundreds of years to perfect it… he makes me swoon too Merit. Ethan even managed to get in a ‘That’s What She Said’ joke.
This time we get to see the growth of her relationship with Ethan. They’ve moved into the same rooms and though they haven’t been together all that long, it’s clear how important they are to each other. We also get to see the everyday struggles they have… something as simple as a valentine’s day dinner just isn’t in the cards for these two. Fortunately or unfortunately, they will never have just a simple and normal life.
We also get some insight on what is going on with Mallory. It was nice to see her return to the fold a bit and be involved more. I’m looking forward to more of her in book 9!
There’s actually quite a bit going on here, I know I’m probably not conveying that very well, but I can’t spill too much because I’m not going to be the one to give any of the mystery away… Merit and Ethan and the rest of Cadogan House are determined to figure out who is targeting them and to be completely honest, I didn’t even guess the truth until it had basically been revealed … so score one for Chloe Neill!
That’s it. I’m not telling you anything else, but I will share a bit of Ethan swoon with you:
'Sentinel, you are always the most beautiful woman in the room, irrespective of what you're wearing. And most especially and preferably when you're wearing nothing at all.
Make sure you get your hands on this when it comes out, and if you haven’t started The Chicagoland Vampires Series, what the heck are you waiting for? It’s the perfect series read in my opinion and you have 8 other books to get started on before this one comes out.
Thank you to Penguin for an advance copy for an honest review.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
