The Midnight Breed Series Companion

Author: Lara Adrian 

Release Date: May 29, 2013

Publisher: self-published

Midnight Breed Series

ISBN: #978-1939193926

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format(s): Paperback (332 pgs), e-book

Book Source: Author/Purchased with my own funds

Part human, part otherworldly, the Breed has lived among humankind in secret for thousands of years . . . and now fans of the popular, best-selling Midnight Breed Series can delve deeper than ever before into this hidden, seductive race of vampires and the dark, thrilling universe they inhabit.

A book that's been years in the making, the Midnight Breed Series Companion includes insider info on all of the novels, author notes on the creation of the story world and how the eleven-book (and counting!) series has evolved since its beginning as a contracted trilogy, a complete character guide, series trivia, questions from readers and more. 

This special series companion also includes "A Touch of Midnight"--an all-new, never-before-published, original novella featuring Gideon and Savannah, which finally reveals the story of how this reader favorite couple met and fell in love, and answers many questions that fans have been curious about since the series began!

I’m going to put this out there - I adore the Midnight Breed series by Lara Adrian. Ms. Adrian has created a world with a unique vampire mythology filled with exciting action, intricate storylines, and passionate romance. If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend you pick up the first book, Kiss of Midnight, and get to know the males of the Breed Order.

With that said, The Midnight Breed Series Companion is NOT for newcomers to Ms. Adrian’s series. It contains a wonderful introspection of the first ten novels, and therefore, contains numerous spoilers for anyone that has not yet read the first ten books. 

For series fans... This is a MUST buy. The Companion is an excellent go to guide for fans! Ms. Adrian does a marvelous job breaking down her initial series thoughts, and added a number of details now that she is eleven books in (she did cover a little of what happens in the eleventh book, Edge of Dawn.) I loved reading her preliminary write up of the mythology. The book by book synopsis section was a great look back. I didn’t realize how much I’d forgotten. After the synopsis of each book, Ms. Adrian treats us with a new novella featuring Order techie, Gideon, and his Breedmate, Savannah.

A Touch of Midnight

A Midnight Breed Prequel novella

Boston, MA, October 1974. Savannah is an art history major at Boston University where she is working on an extra credit project helping to log and analyze a recent donation. Savannah hides her ability to see an object's history when she touches it. In a back room she discovers a sword, and when she accidentally touches it, she witnesses a valiant warrior. Then she sees the deaths of two small boys at the hands of a monster. 

Gideon works with the Breed Order, attempting to eliminate all Rogues from existence after his two young brothers were murdered by rogues long ago. 

Like most of the other Breeds in the Order, Gideon does not meet his Breedmate-to-be in a calm, safe setting. Because of what she has seen via her ESP talent, Savannah is targeted by a powerful Breed bent on destroying Gideon. The peril forces a quick lesson in the paranormal for Savannah and opens the doors for a speedy courtship. 

At times I felt the romance was rushed, and even a little creepy in one scene when Gideon is overcome with lust as Savannah is freaking out. But this is a novella and things need to move quickly. If I didn’t know the pair from reading the full series, I may have let this be a factor, but I adore this couple, so I let it slide. 

Overall, even though the "I love you's" came fast, and I was a little bummed that Gideon needed to lie to Savannah for a while, I understand the need for speed in the shorter-length setting. It's a novella, and it was entertaining to get their backstory. The novella itself is a well-written story. In the end, it made me happy and I enjoyed it. 

Rating for the novella: 3.5 stars: Liked it - recommend (B+)

After the novella was a VERY DETAILED character list. Again, it is a great reference tool for fans of series... And I will use it when reading books and trying to recall who someone is! I felt like I was  looking at an old yearbook - fun to reminisce.

Next came the reader/fan submitted questions, which are entertaining. I had the surprise pleasure of seeing a question that I submitted in the Companion! I enjoyed all of the questions submitted, both those for Lara and those for her characters. 

Following the questions was a trivia section. I read through some of the trivia, but the questions were hard (I have horrible memory), so I didn't actually test myself. 

Overall, I enjoyed The Midnight Breed Series Companion, and it is a terrific read for fans of the Midnight Breed series. It's not really for newcomers, and as Ms. Adrian points out in the beginning of the book--it's full of spoilers.

I would rate 3.5, B+ and a fun read for fans of the series. And even if you don't read right away, it's a great resource to have as the series grows. 

Liked it - recommend (B+)

The Midnight Breed Series Companion

Reviews in the Series:

Taken by Midnight (Book 8)

Deeper Than Midnight (Book 9)

A Taste of Midnight (Book 9.5)

Darker After Midnight (Book 10)

Edge of Dawn (Book 11)

Edge of Dawn

Author: Lara Adrian 

Release Date: Feb. 26, 2013

Publisher: Delacorte Press

Midnight Breed #11

ISBN: #978-0345532602

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format(s): Hardcover (300 pgs)

Book Source: Author/ NetGalley

Twenty years after the terror of First Dawn-when mankind learned that vampires lived secretly among them-the threat of violence reigns as the two species struggle to coexist. The only group preserving the fragile harmony is the Order, an elite cadre of Breed warriors dedicated to protecting humans and vampires alike. And in this precarious world of torn loyalties and shattered trust, Mira, a fiery squad captain, finds that every fight bears an intensely personal cost.

Raised among the Order, Mira has always believed in the warrior's code of swift-and even lethal-justice. But the one thing she desires more than the Order's hard-won acceptance is Kellan Archer, a sexy but troubled Breed fighter. In love with him since childhood, Mira once broke through his tough exterior during an unexpected night of rapture, but the next day he mysteriously disappeared, never to return.

Kellan didn't think he would ever see Mira again-or have to confront the truth of why he left. After abandoning the Order years ago, he now leads a band of human rebels intent on carrying out their own vigilante rule of law. Yet a high-profile kidnapping assignment brings him face-to-face with the past he sought to avoid, and the striking woman he has tried desperately to forget. And as tensions mount and the risk of bloodshed grows, Kellan and Mira must take sides-between the competing missions that dominate their lives, and the electrifying passion that claims their hearts.

After leaving readers with one hell of an ending in last year’s Darker After Midnight, Ms. Adrian revamps (pun intended) and restarts her wonderful Midnight Breed Series with the eleventh installment, Edge of Dawn. Long-time fans of the series are thrusted twenty years into the future, to a world where humans have discovered the Breed, and a tenuous peace keeps the planet from more years of war. First-time readers to the series will find this an appropriate place to start since so much is new (but really, it’s an awesome series - go back to the beginning!)

Our story opens in Boston, with the (new) Order back in the original Breed’s stomping ground. The reader quickly gets a taste of what life is like after “First Dawn,” when the world learned that vampires (aka Breed) do exist. We are reacquainted with a weathered and roughened adult Mira and several new Order recruits, included the offspring of some of the original Breed characters. Although Mira is technically human, she is a Breedmate (human female capable of long-term mating with a Breed male) and after being raised by Breed, thinks of herself as one. She’s got a huge chip on her shoulder, and still carries the weight of losing her best friend and love, Kellan, over eight years ago.

It is evident from the start that Mira is a loose cannon and has been disciplined for aggressive and reckless behavior. After messing up yet again, Breed leader Lucan Thorne assigns her to accompany a high-profile, young inventor from the Boston area to Washington, DC for an award. Unfortunately, before even leaving his home, Mira and Jeremy Ackmeyer are kidnapped by human rebels lead by none other than the presumed deceased Kellan Archer.

Ah! Where do I even begin with this review?! First of all, I completely love the direction that Ms. Adrian has taken her series. I will admit that it was hard to adjust to and read for the first parts of the book. It was good, but there was a lot of information to digest. Also, I was actually sad to know that I’ve missed all the battles and development of the current Breed/Human accordance. But mostly, I was sad that I missed seeing the next generation grow up into adults. 

The overall storyline dealing with inventor Jeremy Ackmeyer and whether or not he willing helped create technology to kill Breeds is a good one. I was constantly wondering what the truth was and where the real power lies. The multi-layered plot was reminiscent of those involving Drago from earlier Midnight Breed stories.

I really liked Mira. She’s tough, misunderstood and has a heart of gold. She feels like so much as gone against her, but tries to maintain true to the purpose of The Order. She has a lot of integrity, and I admired how she dealt with all of the changes around her.

On the other hand, I was not a big fan of Kellan. Let’s face it... the guy was a jerk. He pretended to be dead for eight years, but stayed close enough to Mira to keep tabs on her. He saw how sad she was and how her life was going downhill, yet he continued to lead the human rebels and work against The Order. I didn’t find his reasons worthy nor his passion to help the humans justified.

Based on my feelings about Kellan, it was difficult for me to buy into Mira and Kellan’s relationship and love for one another. Also it didn’t help that we missed their early years together, growing up and falling in love. These disconnects prevented me from jumping into their relationship with two feet.

My heart broke when Mira came face-to-face with Kellan after those long years apart, and I was upset that he didn’t just let her walk away - pulling her into his world for his own selfish reasons. Their reunion sex was hot, but I couldn't get into it emotionally. The scene was well written, but my heart and head couldn’t get past the fact that he walked away, and he left her to suffer for eight years. It didn’t matter to me that he missed her or that he didn't take another. Then, once reunited, he kept giving her pieces of himself and then shutting the door on her. I understand that Mira allowed it all to play out as it did, but emotionally, I was upset.

With that said, I did eventually come about on my feelings towards Mira and Kellan. As the pair spent more time together, I began to fall for the couple as well. There was one scene in particular when Mira did something that put her own health in danger, that was well written and expertly played on my emotions. And as Kellan came to terms with the path ahead of him, my heart melted.

I enjoyed several of the new characters, but most particularly, Nathan, who isn’t technically new, but is part of the new Order. His passion for doing what is right and the emotional turbulence he experienced as he discovered the truth was marvelous. His friendship with Mira was touching. I’m hoping his book will be next, especially after that kiss he shared with Jordana!

Finally, the story has a pretty interesting twist at the end that I didn’t necessarily see coming. This twist sets the direction for the upcoming books, and I am excited to learn more about the exciting mythology that Ms. Adrian has developed. 

Overall, Edge of Dawn is a thrilling and wonderful story, with a good but not great romance. Although Kellan and Mira as a pair grew on me as the story developed, the fact that Kellan left Mira and let her think he was dead for so long, then planned on leaving her again after their reunion, just made it hard for me to love him. I enjoyed the new mythology and introduction of new characters and future bad guys. I am very hopeful and excited to see how Ms. Adrian will reinvent and enhance one of my favorite paranormal series. 

Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)

Edge of Dawn: Midnight Breed #11

Reviews in the Series:

Taken by Midnight #7

Deeper Than Midnight #8

A Taste of Midnight #9

Darker After Midnight #10

It's been a GREAT summer for reading!  Besides the titles that she's reviewed for That's What I'm Talking About, VampBard has read many other books. To cap off this summer of reading, she’s put together a summary of some of the titles she’s read, but didn’t review. VampBard has enjoyed most, awarding them high ratings and bestowing a quirky award or two. We hope you enjoy this end-of-summer treat! 

A Shiver at Twilight (Halloween-themed novella)

Erin Quinn.  October 26, 2011, Books We Love.

Wow!  This one definitely fed my Stephen King factor!  Psychological horror with some romance added in.  Pulls together my past reader and my present-day reader.  Perfect!

Award:  Best Horror/Ghost Story

Darker After Midnight (Midnight Breed 10)

Lara Adrian.  January 24, 2012, Dell.

I can't believe this is the end of the series!  Ms. Adrian did a really great job tying up loose ends.  I hope to see more of the Breed from her in the future...I'll miss them!

Award:  Best Series Ending EVER!

EDITED TO ADD (by Twimom): This ISN’T the end of the series! Edge of Dawn, the 11th MB book is set to release in January, 2013.

A Taste of Midnight (Midnight Breed 9.5)

Lara Adrian.  December 5, 2011, Dell.

I think that reading this novella increased my experience in reading the series-culmination, Darker after Midnight.  I think it's definitely a MUST READ, for fans of the Midnight Breed series.

The Darkest Seduction (Lords of the Underworld 9)

Gena Showalter.  February 28, 2012, HQN Books.

I adored Paris' book.  I thought that it was a great addition to Ms. Showalter's Lords of the Underworld series, one of my absolute favorites.

Award:  Best Title from Long-Standing Series 

Magic Mike starring Channing Tatum

This was the best movie to attend with one of your Girls that actually GET your penchant for smut & eyecandy!  I was lucky enough to attend with Twimom!  

Award:  Hottest (Chick) Flick of the Summer

Butterfly

Katherine Harvey. 1989, Guild.

I NEVER predicted the outcome of this story!  Great read for the lover of suspense and psychological thrillers.

Award:  Best Romantic Suspense

The Opportunist (Love Me With Lies #1)

Tarryn Fisher.  November 14, 2011, Self-Published.

This was a great story...especially from one of my first ventures into reading a self-published author.

A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy #1)

Deborah Harkness.  February 8, 2011, Viking.

What I loved the most about A Discovery of Witches is that Ms. Harkness wrote about something with which I was familiar.  Researching.  Her description, while not overboard, made me feel as though I was right there!

Award:  Best New-To-Me & Breakout

If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period 

Gennifer Choldenko.  September 1, 2007, Harcourt Books.

Great read for 8-12 year-olds.  Provides a unique and realistic perspective to get these kids asking the all-important 'Who am I?' question.

Award:  Best Young Adult in a LONG time!

All That Bleeds (Etherlin #1)

Kimberley Frost.  January 3, 2012, Berkley Sensation.

This initial book of Ms. Frost's Etherlin series integrates paranormal and mythology in a seamless manner, without hiding the paranormal from the human population.  Unique approach.  Superior execution.

Award:  Best Integration of Paranormal Elements

50 Shades of Grey

E.L. James.  May 26, 2011, Vintage.

Pop lit for Summer 2012.  I've read better 'mommy porn'.  Tugged at my Twilight heart-strings.

50 Shades Darker

E.L. James.  September 15, 2011, The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House

50 Shades Darker was my favorite book in the 50 Shades Trilogy.  I think it was my favorite because we learned the most about Christian, and saw his character evolve so much.

50 Shades Freed

E.L. James.  January 19, 2012, The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House

The ending of the 50 Shades Trilogy was definitely a let-down and felt like a cop-out.  I was definitely hoping for something more than sunshine, flowers, rainbows and unicorns.

Award:  Lamest Ending to a Series 

In case you haven’t heard any of the recent online and on-the-air discussions surrounding Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James, this isn’t one of them! I will tell you, I have not read the book and honestly, I don’t intend to. This isn’t a commentary on Fifty Shades nor a discussion on whether or not one should read the book... I’m in favor of books that get people reading, and that is what this book is doing.

What I am here to talk about is what I hope Fifty Shades of Grey will be for many individuals... a GATEWAY book: a book that brings new readers into a genre. That’s what The Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer was for me and so many other women. It was my gateway into romance - specifically paranormal romance. Before Twilight, I’d never read a romance in my life. The series was the pathway for (I’m guessing) thousands of women to paranormal romance and urban fantasy.

So I wonder... will Fifty Shades of Grey do the same for some of the  so-called “fringe” romances? I’ve had girlfriends that wouldn’t give my blog the time of day ask me about the book because of all of the hype. I’ve been asked for recommendations for more “erotic” or “BDSM” reads. This makes me happy!

A twitter discussion about both Fifty Shades and Twilight with @CarolynCrane and @KatiD prompted the question of what makes a good gateway (or introductory) book? You need something that is well-written and easy to follow. A gateway/introductory book should epitomize the genre without being too hard core. You don’t want to scare away a potential fan before they get used to the genre!

When people ask for recommendations in the paranormal romance genre, I always start with the Psy-Changeling Series by Nalini Singh. I feel that this series is hands down one of the best out there. It’s well-written, the stories are exciting, the romance sexy but not overly erotic, and the amount of paranormal is “just right.” And for folks looking for a vampire-centric story, I refer them to the Midnight Breed Series by Lara Adrian.

For Urban Fantasy, my go-to series is the Kate Daniel Series by Ilona Andrews.  It’s just amazing! And after railroading through the Disillusionists Series by Carolyn Crane earlier this year, I’ve added that to my “gateway” books list.

If someone is looking for a little bit of “fringe” in their romance, I recommend the ACRO Series by Sydney Croft. This series is one of my favorites! The sex is definitely more erotic than the average paranormal romance, and the stories showcase both m/m romance and (in one book) BDSM.

Now I’m looking to my readers out there... what books do you recommend to friends that want to try out a new-to-them genre? I’d love to get some ideas for contemporary, historical, and m/m romance. What about outside of the romance genre all together? What makes a book a good GATEWAY book for you? 

I look forward to reading all of your answers! Thanks for stopping by and Happy Reading!

Darker After Midnight

Author: Lara Adrian 

Release Date: Jan. 24, 2012

Publisher: Delacorte Press

Midnight Breed #10

ISBN: #978-0345530875

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format(s): Hardcover (384 pgs), e-book, audio

Book Source: Author

In the dark of night, a blood war escalates within the hidden world of the Breed. After existing in secret for many long centuries, maintaining a fragile peace with the humans who walk beside them unaware, a single act of retaliation has put the entire vampire nation at risk of discovery. It falls to the Order--a cadre of Breed warriors pledged to protect their own and humankind alike--to stop Dragos, the power-mad vampire at the center of the conflict, before his push for domination can explode into catastrophe.

At the center of the Order’s quest is Sterling Chase, once a morally rigid enforcer of Breed law, now a warrior fallen from grace, whose biggest battle is the one he wages against his own savage nature. With addiction beckoning him toward eternal darkness, Chase’s path to redemption has never seemed more out of reach--until he finds himself drawn to a beautiful young woman who may be something much more than she seems . . .

Okay, so I’m just going to come out and say it: I LOVED THIS BOOK! I am in awe of the mastery Ms. Adrian has put onto the pages. If you have not read the Midnight Breeds series, go pick up book 1, Kiss of Midnight, NOW and do NOT start here if you want to enjoy the full potential of this book.  

Last we saw outcast Breed warrior, Chase Sterling, he was sacrificing himself to save his former friends and comrades. Darker After Midnight picks up immediate after the conclusion of Deeper Than Midnight. Chase has been incarcerated by the human police force, the Order has gone into hiding and Dragos is taking over Boston. It’s a scary time for law-abiding Breeds. Chase is hell-bent on bring Dragos down, which includes killing off some very high-profile human Minions (mind-slaves to Dragos).

Right in the center of Chase’s path of vengeance is the exotic Tavia Fairchild, and soon they both discover she is so much more than anyone understands.  Tavia has been lied to her entire life and is inexplicable drawn to Chase. Although she fears him, she stays with Chase because he tells her the truth. Together the two attempt to discover her true origins and bring down Dragos.

So much happens in this story, but it never felt overwhelming or forced. I could write three pages alone of basic plot summary. But the bottom line is that whether you are new to the series or a long time fan, Ms. Adrian does a fantastic job bringing the reader up to speed on both the story arc and the characters without being redundant or intrusive. In the beginning, she writes “slice of life” sections, which give insight into the lives of all of the characters, but also provide an effortless way to catch up on the first nine books (which is especially great for those of us that don’t have the best memories). She also does a superb job of covertly mentioning facts so the can remember who is mated to whom, which warriors have moved on, etc.

I also love how Ms. Adrian paints a scene for her readers. She provides details that help construct almost tangible images. It’s done in a way without being wordy or obtuse.  

The pairing of Chase and Tavia is exemplary! They both feel damaged by life and don’t trust others. They find truth and salvation in each other’s arms, but it takes time. I adore that they both make mistakes, and then realize that they want to be better for each other. And their smex scenes... WOW! They are intensely erotic.  Like most romances, the pair must give and go through a lot, but this is one of those situations where the couple just comes together for all the right reasons, and it feels perfect.

The book also brings the series fans full circle with a Gabrielle and Lucan subplot. The couple doesn’t dominate the book, but rather compliments the overall story - we started with them in the very first book, and it is fitting to come back to the Order’s leader and his mate. Lucan’s struggle between wanting to have a child and concerns over a violent future are heart-felt and emotionally wrenching. There is a scene between the two - a discussion about having a baby that showcased Lucan’s inner-turmoil and the complete love and devotion each has for the other, and it tore me up inside.

This was most definitely the conclusion of a major story-arc involving Dragos and his Gen One Hunters. But this is NOT the end of this amazing series. Ms. Adrian has already announced that the upcoming story arc will focus on the younger characters, with the next release focusing on the mysterious Mira. 

So much happened that leads to the next story. We are given glimpses of the Breeds and Breedmate origins, Jenna is still evolving and Tavia is a miracle that leaves so many possibilities for the future. Without giving spoilers, I will tell you that this book changes the game in a MAJOR way and I am more excited than ever to see what comes next!

I honestly could go on and on. I have so much exuberance for Darker After Midnight because it is the perfect climax to this amazing series. I only hope that I got a fraction of how wonderful this book is within my review.

Personal favorite - a must read (A+)

In addition, Darker After Midnight is one of... 

Purchase Information:

Darker After Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel

A Taste of Midnight

Author: Lara Adrian 

Release Date: Dec. 5, 2011

Publisher: Dell

Midnight Breed #9.5

ISBN: #978-0-345-53259

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format(s): e-book (novella)

Book Source: Purchased with my own funds

A shimmering holiday gala lights up an ancient castle in the Scottish Highlands, but beautiful widowed Breedmate Danika MacConn feels alone in the crowd. Even among the friends and festivity of the Darkhaven celebration, she can’t forget her lost love, a fallen warrior of the Order. Her brief return to her mate’s homeland has become treacherous after rejecting the advances of a dangerous Edinburgh crime boss with a taste for blood sport.

As Danika seeks to expose the vampire and his dark trade, she discovers an unexpected ally in his forbidding, enigmatic henchman, Brannoc, a man who exudes heat, danger, and dark menace--and seems somehow achingly familiar. Bran has his own reasons for wanting to keep Dani out of his employer’s business . . . and his own secrets he means to keep buried. The last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a woman who tempts the wildest part of his Breed nature--especially when that woman is Danika MacConn, the one woman capable of bringing him to his knees.

Danika MacConn lost her life-long mate while he was serving the Order... a band of warriors who protect Breeds (vampires) and humans alike from the darker side of their kind. Danika left the Order's Boston compound to live a quiet life with her Breed infant son in her native land. While reconnecting with her mate's family, she overhears a dangerous Breed criminal planning to use humans for illegal and horrific purposes, and Dani cannot let it go. (Note: you do not need to have read the series to read this story, back knowledge of the characters is not necessary.)

I have to admit, I was a little upset with Danika when she purposefully walked into a known criminal's place of business after refusing to ask for outside help in bringing this criminal down.  As a mother, my first thoughts were "NO! you idiot, do you want to orphan your poor child? Don't be so stupid woman!" I got over that quickly, especially since it brings her into contact with Brannoc, and Dani realizes his true identity is a close childhood friend.

The fact that the pair were would-be lovers from long ago allows for an immediate and fiery passion to ignite. Their romance is not hampered by the shorter length of the story, and is enhanced when both acknowledge it is okay to move on after a mate dies. I could have done without the "I love you's" but in the end it didn't detract from their story.

There is a lot of action packed into this short story, which creates a "cannot set this book down" situation. I like that the storyline is self-contained, and there are no unanswered questions when the story is over.

For those fans of the wonderful Midnight Breed series, A Taste of Midnight is the perfect Christmas gift from Ms. Adrian. Not only does she give us a steamy taste of her Midnight Breeds, but she also includes an excerpt from Chase's book, Darker After Midnight. I highly recommend this enjoyable novella-length story for all paranormal romance readers - if you haven't tried this series, here is your chance to see what you've been missing. The story is a perfect capsule of the series flavor and Ms. Adrian's talent and writing style.

Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)