| Title | : | Taken to the Grave (Midnight Stakes #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 218 |
| Publication | : | Published October 30, 2023 |
With his best friend Hayley Van Helsing and her mate Darius on the side of good, Jackson needs to decide if he’s to join them or go against them. Not only will his loyalties be tested but also his love for the family he has created.
[ This is book two of the Midnight Stakes series ]
Please note: This is not a happy ever after ending, it's a happy ever for now. It is a MM romance. There are violent scenes mentioned as well as blood.
Taken to the Grave (Midnight Stakes #2) Reviews
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Absolutely captivating! I was obsessed by chapter 5 and finished this book is roughly about 3 hours…it was just that good. Melanie Davies just has a way with her words!
Jackson…oh my goodness. He holds such a special place in my heart! He deserves more! So much more! His story left me broken 💔😭 and wanting more! -
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Jackson’s pov compared to Hayley’s in graveyard shift (I love Hayley’s and Darius’ love story), but oh my gosh this story just blew me away! I was astonished. Jackson truly has my heart. I went through a whirlpool of emotions & was left crying! I felt so attached to every character (yes even the side ones) . I couldn’t pick a better author to start my binge on fantasy books! I love love looveee every book that Melanie Davies has released, & they have all been 5 stars from me. ❤️
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I knew I was going to like it because I liked the first book, but I didn't just like it, I loved it! There's a little bit of everything that I like. Romance, action, a bit of mystery, and a touch of humor, too. That ending, though. Ugh Oh, how I cried. 😭 I NEED more, Mel. Please!?!?!
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Rating: 4.5 (Rounding up on GR)
After reading
Melanie Davies's first book in her Midnight Stakes series, I was excited to know there would be a second book that would soon follow! I received an eARC of Taken to the Grave and it is a deliciously dark and magical read, perfect for the Fall.
Taken to the Grave picks up right where book 1 ended and is written from Jackson Gates' POV. We met Jackson in Graveyard Shift. He is a powerful witch, Hayley Van Helsing's second in command and her closest friend since childhood. Much like Hayley, Jackson's past is fraught with a lot of trauma and pain, including the loss of his human lover at the hands of a vampire. While these past truggles weigh on Jackson emotionally they also inspire him to fight the darkness that threatens his home and his friends.
While Hayley and her hybrid mate, Darius, make more than just a cameo, this is Jackson's story. He and Hayley's chosen family are barely putting back the pieces of their academy, when an ancient evil that is much closer to home than they could have anticipated looks to bring an end to all they know and love. As Jackson seeks to unearth the truth behind this unknown force, he gets drawn into a history that tilts all that he knew on its head. As the death toll around him rises, Jackson makes decisions that could have irreversible consequences and put him on the opposite side from those he's always called family.
We are also introduced to Adrian, the alpha of the local werewolf gang. Almost from their introduction, Jackson feels an inexplicable draw to Adrian, despite the fact that he and his group have a very complicated history with werewolves and trust does not come easily between the two sides. Adrian is sexy, domineering but also has a gentle and caring side. He and Jackson fight almost as much as they flirt and I loved every minute of watching these two circle around their attraction to each other. However, Jackson can't help but feel like Adrian is hiding something about their connection and with everything else they are facing, he reluctantly at times finds himself leaning more on the werewolf than he ever would have imagined.
This book moves quickly as Davies hardly gives her characters a moment of peace as their enemy moves relentlessly towards their goal and Jackson becomes more desperate to find the solution to save them all. I loved the character of Jackson in book 1 as he often provided comedic relief to Hayley's intense slayer personality. In Taken to the Grave, Davies adds more depth to Jackson as he juggles a nearly untenable situation. By nature of the fact that this is a shorter novel, it does mean we don't get as much time to dive into learning more about Adrian and his past, which I would have loved but who knows perhaps more things to come in this universe??!! Davies does not shy away from the emotional carnage and I was left with a few bruises on my reader heart in all the best ways. If you aren't hit directly in the feels by the end of this book, then you may want to check your pulse.
If you are looking for a fast paced paranormal read to help you celebrate the spookier season or if you just love vampires, witches and werewolves, then pick up Taken to the Grave and enjoy! -
"Taken to the Grave" by Melanie Davies is a captivating journey into a world of dark magic, vampires, and supernatural mysteries. In this second installment of the Midnight Stakes series, readers are transported to a realm filled with deliciously dark and magical elements, making it the perfect read for the Fall season.
The story picks up right where the first book left off, but this time, it's narrated from the perspective of Jackson Gates. Jackson, a powerful witch and close friend of Hayley Van Helsing, is dealing with a past haunted by trauma and loss. As he confronts his painful history, he's also compelled to battle the looming darkness threatening his home and friends.
While beloved characters like Hayley and her mate Darius make appearances, this book delves into Jackson's personal journey. He, along with their chosen family, faces a grave danger that strikes closer to home than they could have ever imagined. The unknown evil they encounter challenges their beliefs and loyalty, pushing them to make difficult choices.
Readers are introduced to Adrian, the alpha of a local werewolf gang. Jackson feels an irresistible connection to Adrian, even though their two groups have a complicated history. This book adds a layer of attraction and tension between Jackson and Adrian, which adds depth to the narrative. As the plot unfolds, the characters are pushed to their limits, and unexpected emotional twists keep readers engaged.
Davies maintains a fast-paced narrative that rarely offers characters a moment of respite. The story's urgency intensifies as the enemy relentlessly advances towards its ominous goal, and Jackson becomes increasingly desperate to find a solution to save those he cares about.
In "Taken to the Grave," readers will encounter an emotional rollercoaster that leaves its mark. This book will tug at your heartstrings and stir your emotions, making it impossible to remain unaffected. If you're seeking a thrilling and fast-paced paranormal read, or if you simply adore the supernatural world of vampires, witches, and werewolves, then this book is a must-read. Dive into this magical world and enjoy the spooky season with "Taken to the Grave."
🌟📚 Don't miss out on this exhilarating journey; pick up "Taken to the Grave" today and be prepared to be spellbound! 📚🌟 -
Taken to the Grave" by Melanie Davies takes readers on an enchanting journey filled with magic, emotion, and unforgettable characters. While I was initially apprehensive about shifting from Hayley's perspective in "Graveyard Shift," Melanie Davies masterfully draws us into Jackson's world, delivering a story that is nothing short of astonishing.
From the very first page, I was completely immersed in Jackson's point of view, and it wasn't long before he had stolen my heart. The depth of his character and the complexity of his emotions left me utterly captivated. Davies' portrayal of his inner struggles, his growth, and his journey throughout the story was both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. I found myself rooting for Jackson with every turn of the page.
What sets "Taken to the Grave" apart is the author's ability to evoke a whirlwind of emotions in the reader. From laughter to tears, I was taken on a rollercoaster ride of feelings as I followed the characters on their adventure. Davies has a remarkable talent for making every character, even the side ones, feel significant and deeply relatable. It's rare to feel so attached to a diverse cast of characters, but in this book, it was impossible not to.
Melanie Davies has a gift for crafting rich and immersive worlds, sprinkled with magic and wonder. The story is beautifully woven, with a perfect balance of action, romance, and suspense. I was left utterly spellbound by the fantastical elements and the intricate plot twists.
It not only exceeded my expectations but also left me eagerly anticipating more from this talented author. If you're looking for a fantasy book that will sweep you off your feet, make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with its characters, "Taken to the Grave" is an absolute must-read. Melanie Davies has firmly established herself as a must-watch author in the world of fantasy, and I can't wait to see where her storytelling magic takes us next. -
✨ Taken to the Grave by Melanie Davies - ARC Review ✨
🤍 PNR
💙 Werewolf Lover
🤍 Magic
💙 Found Family
🤍 LGBTQ Rep
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶
After Angelique’s attack, Jackson has questions about everything, especially the history of the Van Helsing family. After being rescued from a terrifying car accident from the local alpha werewolf Adrian, Jackson finds himself and Hayley in the alpha's debt, and unsure of how this new "alliance" will pan out. Is Adrian looking to double cross them or will he turn out to be a true ally? Only time will tell. In the meantime, Jackson is plagued with the realization that his friend is developing new powers within themselves, much faster than they should be. He's torn between stopping them, and allowing them to carrying on with their plans. Plans which he is slowly realizing are not pure of heart. Jackson needs to decide who's side he's on and fast before it's too late.
I liked Jackson's perspective a lot more than I thought I would. He had a pretty minimal role in the first book (other than being Hayley's best friend and witchy back-up) so I was interested to learn more about him and what drives his character. After losing his partner Alex, Jackson has relied pretty heavily on his friends for support, and as everyone's lives begin changing, he's having trouble finding his identity within his found family. So, I especially loved the addition of Adrian to his story. The whole I'm not looking for love, but I found it anyway angle is adorable. I liked his character and the chemistry between the two of them. Not a lot of spice in this one, but it was fitting for the story. I will say that ending had me way more in my feels than I anticipated. It was a surprising end, but I felt it fit the story really well. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I'm interested to see where this series is going to go. -
I loved book 1, but this I absolutely adored more, I was hooked from the beginning, it took me on a crazy rollercoaster ride of emotions the whole way through.. it was filled with Suspense, revenge, hurt, family, love, sadness, romance and so much more, it was fast paced but filled with so much. The story was wonderfully tragic and the characters and storyline were great. But that ending.
In this book we get to focus on Jackson's journey, he is a powerful witch and is Hayley's best friend and second in command. His past is filled with trauma and pain, specially losing his person by a vampire attack. Even know it all weighs heavy on him, he will continue to fight darkness and evil. That threatens the world he lives in and the people he cares about. When an evil b*tch turns up and threatens all that, Jackson needs to go on the hunt for answers and figure out how to stop it/her.
Along the way we are introduced to Adrian, a hot alpha from the local wolf pack. When they both meet it's an instant connection and Jackson feels drawn to him. We find out that he's his person. But shit is complicated and twists and turns bring little time to explore it.
Adrian is hot, sexy, domineering, protective but he also has a sweet, caring and soft side. The two off them together was great the banter, the flirting was funny and sweet. But is our hot alpha hiding something.? Yes, yip, uh-huh , but it's not what we think it is.
I truly enjoyed getting to know more about Jackson, he will forever have a special place in my heart, he deserved the world and more! Why Mel just why?. It broke my bloody heart and I was a total mess, ugly crying isn't my thing. But you made it happen. You have truly broke me 💔 I highly recommend this series and can't wait to see what Mel brings to us next. -
***BOOK REVIEW***
Name: Taken to the Grave
Author: Melanie Davies
Rate: 4.5/5🌟
~ Taken to the Grave book 2 of the Midnight Stakes series transports readers to a world where there is dark magic, vampires and supernatural creatures. The story starts up where it left off from book 1 Graveyard Shift, so if you have yet read the first book please do so for you will be able to understand the story upon these characters. Now this book focuses more on Jackson Gates, a powerful warlock, Haley’s best friend and second in command for the Van Helsing Clan. I did enjoy how his character grew in this book, he found a mate, and all the life choices he needed to make . The only thing I did not like. Which I don’t know it could just be me thinking this but was he choosing to come back when needed!!! I’m not sure if I personally would have chosen that option, knowing the consequences that will come with that throughout the time. Knowing you will lose a lot of time till you are needed, I understand he did it for his friends but I don't know. I just wished he had more time with his found mate though. Adrian “the mysterious bartender” who turned out to be an Alpha of a werewolf pack. There is so much going on in this story that it will keep you entertained, the plot, the magic, the emotions!!! So don’t miss out on this exhilarating journey!!! Go check it out NOW!!!! -
Transparency: I loved Graveyard Shift. I wanted more. However, I did not know if I was going to like Taken to the Grave simply because I was hesitant on Jackson’s POV. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get into it. And honestly, I struggled in the beginning of the book because I wasn’t finding myself hooked. I was interested enough to keep on reading, but wasn’t feeling the pull like I was with Graveyard Shift…UNTIL. I. WAS.
I can’t remember the exact point that hooked me aside from knowing it was soon after hitting double digit chapters. Soooo, just keep reading if you aren’t feeling that spark yet! Furthermore, I ended up liking Jackson’s pov a lot more than I expected. The story quickly enveloped me once I became hooked. It’s tense and adventurous with a dab of “I wasn’t looking for love but found it anyway.” Jackson is determined and unselfish; he has a huge heart for his found family and always finds putting himself last - he deserves SO much more.
The ending absolutely wrecked me, and I really hope this series continues.
Notes: book 2 of The Midnight Stakes series.
Tropes: paranormal, found family, magic, touch him and die, enemies to lovers, anti-hero romance, forbidden love, LGBTQ+ Rep, werewolf lover -
✨ Taken to the Grave ✨
~ Different Worlds
~ Forbidden Love
~ Touch him & ☠️
✨ My thoughts ✨
This book was just so good. It is fast paced. It is full of twists and turns. I loved Jackson in Graveyard Shift. I was excited to read his story in Taken to the Grave. His story was so beautiful. I love seeing him take down the walls he had up. Adrian is just so dreamy. I love seeing the tension between him and Jackson. The plot twist had my jaw dropping. The ending had me in tears. I am crossing my fingers for more. I really can't recommend this one enough.
Taken to the Grave is book two in the Midnight Stakes series. It follows the events after book one. This is the perfect fall book. It is recommended for 18+. As always please check TW before reading.
✨ Personal note ✨
I want to thank Mel for letting me be on her beta team for this book. It was truly amazing to see this story come together. I am so dang proud of her. I also want to thank her for an ARC copy too. ✨ -
Taken to the Grave is book 2 in the Midnight Stakes series. Both of these books are perfect to read during this season. They are both shorter reads but definitely not lacking!
I was so happy to return to this magical world and get more of Jackson’s story. He is such a powerful witch and I loved watching him coming into his own as second in command for the Van Helsing clan. This was such an emotional read compared to the first. He has experienced so much loss and heartbreak. So I was definitely rooting for him when the hot alpha wolf shifter Adrian was introduced! Right away they had so much tension and the back/forth between them was so enjoyable!
It cannot be a Melanie Davies book without the ultimate plot twists! I devoured this book in a day and couldn’t believe that ending! I need more! -
Taken to the Grave kicks off 3 months after Graveyard Shift and the defeat of Angelique. Jackson and Hayley are working to get things back to as normal as they can after the betrayal of their childhood friend, Eric. Jackson is still feeling the loss of his love, Alex, from book one and learning to navigate the world around him.
Things start to unravel as they are faced with a big baddie who seems to have endless power and is impossible to beat. While facing off with The Enchantress, Jackson is also faced with his own personal foe in the form of a male Alphahole. Jackson is battling the will of wits, his magical limitations, and his heart.
Mel, Jackson needed this book immensely, but it so did not turn out the way I thought it would. As always, this book was great and I fought to put it down. -
Having been engrossed by the first book, my excitement for this continuation was palpable. Melanie Davies did not disappoint. She crafts a tale filled with twists. As the story unfolds, I found myself deeply engrossed, captivated by the intricate web of relationships and choices set against the backdrop of an age-old lineage.
Davies' storytelling prowess keeps you hooked, making it a quick and engaging read. One character, in particular, stood out, leaving an indelible mark on their emotional journey. While the narrative was compelling, I felt there were moments and characters that could've been delved into a bit more. Overall, a captivating read that leaves you pondering long after the last page. -
I've read the first book, so I just dove into the second book without reading the synopsis. I did get very confused about the POV switch because of that 😅 BUT I am absolutely glad! I honestly love this character more than the POV character of the first book.
I love the fast pace of the plot, and how much intensity it adds to the suspense. I do wish I got to dive deeper in some characters, like the wolves. 😉 Also, that ending!!! 😭🤯 I really hope Davies continues with this world because I need closure!
✨ Taken to the Grave (Book 2 of Midnight Stakes) by Melanie Davies ✨
🗡️ Destined lovers
🗡️ LGBTQ+ rep (MC)
🗡️ Elemental powers
🗡️ Paranormal world
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Slow burn
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Triggers include: Violence, burning, death -
Taken to the Grave is book 2 in the Midnight Stakes series. Both of these books are perfect to read during this season. They are both shorter reads but definitely not lacking!
I was so happy to return to this magical world and get more of Jackson’s story. He is such a powerful witch and I loved watching him coming into his own as second in command for the Van Helsing clan. This was such an amazing read and seeing the characters come into their own was awesome to watch.
It cannot be a Melanie Davies book without the ultimate plot twists! I devoured this book in a day and couldn’t believe that ending! I need more! -
The story is well written and developed. It is a fast paced story that keeps you glued to it. The story continues from book one and we meet Jackson in that story. I really enjoyed Jackson’s comic relief at times in the first book and enjoyed learning more about him in this one. The story is definitely a great read. I read enjoy Molly as well. She is a sweet lady and at times you can feel her worry when she is worried about some. It seems that they can never catch a break and one thing after another happens. Melanie Davies writes such amazing stories with stunning characters and this one is no less stunning. It is absolutely a fantastic read.
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The second book in the series, this one is from Jackson's POV. I didn't like it as much as the first, but Jackson's character development here was really well done. I felt a lot more of the emotion in this one, and really, liked the pairing of Jackson and Adrian.
True to form, Jackson has to make decisions and sacrifices to save those he loves, and defeat the evil Malia. I didn't expect the ending to go the way it did and my goodness was it heartbreaking! -
This is the book I have been waiting for!!!
After reading the first book in this series I needed a book with more of Jackson. This book delivered!!
This book is a continuation of the first book but from Jacksons POV. I was lead on an emotional journey which had my laughing and even sheading a tear or two.
The ending was *chef's kiss*. I have no other way to describe it.
100% recommend this series!!
Infact 100% recommend Melanie Davies. Auto buy author for me -
I've been waiting for this book since I finished Graveyard Shift earlier this year and it DID NOT disappoint!
Melanie Davies has a way of making me both love and feel with the characters and it was no different in this book. It was heartwreaching and gave me the outlet I needed to cry when I needed it the most.
Need something that will grip you and keep you busy reading until the book is finished? This is the book. -
Yet again Melanie Davies has written another captivating book. Book 1 was great and this book follows on and is fantastic. This book pulls you in and you just can’t put it down. This book will have you riding a rollercoaster of emotions. You can’t help but fall in love with Jackson and our other characters. Melanie has such a way with her writing that she just pulls you in to her stories.
This book is fast paced and a fantastic read. -
Taken to the Grave, Book 2 of the Midnight Stakes Series, was amazing. It picks up a few months in after the end of Book 1, Graveyard Shift. I couldn’t wait to read the second book, and when I did, it broke me. This book is a lot and I absolutely loved it. I loved getting to follow Jackson on his journey to uncover the truth. I definitely will be adding this series to my favorites.
As always be mindful of any trigger warnings, what I like you may not.
Happy Reading! -
New twists to the story…intrigue at every corner. This book keeps you reading and wanting more of this world.
Last book was focused on Haley, but here we get more of her best friend and his story. He’s loved and lost and that strongly impacts how guarded he is and why he was susceptible to someone who really saw him for the first time in a long time. I loved his heart. I can’t wait to read more. -
Absolutely captivating! This story just blew me away! Jackson faces a grave danger that strikes closer to home than he could have ever imagined. Taken to the Grave is an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you feeling drained and fair warning tissues are a must. I loved this story and highly recommend it.
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I loved following Jackson's story this time round and still having Haley & Darius around. Adrian is a dream, and I thoroughly enjoyed this twisty turny book! Action, mystery, betrayal, and some steam to keep you engaged. The enchantress is not someone I'd ever want to cross, but Jackson is brave, loyal and a fierce friend I would want in my life! I want more!!
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Amazing follow up to the first book, Graveyard Shift.
I loved seeing more of Jackson, watching his character grow and meeting new characters like a mystery bartender that catches his eye.
This story has all the feels!! Along with a twist ending you won't see coming.
