I wanted to just hurry through all the fights and arguments and get back to those two. I know their issues couldn't be resolved immediately, but what ended up happening was I had a difficult time caring about all the troubles with the vampires and shape-shifters because I was so distracted with Ethan/Merit. Their relationship started and stopped, interrupted for some conflict. The second reason is the Ethan and Merit relationship continually upstaged any of the conflicts in the plot. Merit just borders on Mary Sue-ism, but thankfully doesn't cross the line. They often save the day, saving everyone even though they are newbies. Mary Sue is a name given to usually female characters (sometimes male) who know more, perform better, figure things out faster than the leaders, experts or masters. But sometimes she borders on being a 'Mary Sue'. She's feisty, she willful, she's stromg, resilient and sexy. First reason is Merit, our intrepid heroine. I really am hooked on Chicagoland vampires, and I am very sorry that there's only one more book (please more!!), but just two things kept this from being up there on the list of my all-time favorite vampire series. I actually give this third book in the series four and a half stars. Pratt, you will probably enjoy this series as well. Bottom line is that if you enjoy listening to authors like Ilona Andrews, Jim Butcher, Jennifer Estep, Carrie Vaughn, Kim Harrison, Richelle Mead, Patricia Briggs, Charlaine Harris, J. Definitely not detracting enough to take away from the story.

Cynthia Holloway's narration can be a bit confusing at times as there often isn't enough variation to differentiate between characters but she still does a pretty good read. And Merit should just boot Ethan to the curb. It is a bit irritating that we are kept in the dark as to Merit's real first name. They are still living, still warm, can eat food but need blood supplements, are mostly immortal with some fatal flaws. The explanation for vampirism seems almost more plausible than most of the paranormal fiction novels I have read. I have really been enjoying this vampire/supernatural series. Another writer for my 'paranormal favorites' list

Twice Bitten by Chloe Neill