Hair/eye color: Sun-streaked blond-brown hair/Amber
Species: Shifter (wolf)
First appearance in book (book/page): FNB, page 353
Thoughts: Gabe’s as alpha as they come, with mysteriously amber eyes and the body of a god. He’s god a quick wit, a good heart, and a beautiful wife. And he’s an Apex predator.
BITING BAD
Chicagoland Vampires Series #8
by Chloe Neill
Publisher: NAL Penguin (August 6, 2013)
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Adult
Format: ARC (368 pages)
Source: Free book from author for honest review
Purchase: Amazon Print | Amazon Kindle | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository
Rating: ★★★½☆ (3.5 stars)
Merit has been a vampire for only a short while, but she’s already seen a lifetime’s worth of trouble. She and her Master, centuries-old Ethan Sullivan, have risked their lives time and again to save the city they love. But not all of Chicago is loving them back.
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.
At A Glance
It took me some time to get into this book, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down.
The Good
You all probably know by now how much I love Chloe Neill. She has a way of creating these characters that stay with you days and weeks after reading the last page. She finds a great balance of action, mystery, paranormal, and romance in her books that we expect in excellent urban fantasies. Biting Bad was another good addiction to the Chicagoland Vampires Series because it had all the elements to keep me reading.
Merit is finally in a good place with Ethan, but now she has to worry about the anti-vamp mobs trying to run out (or kill) all the vampires in the city. Merit does a great job of keeping her cool through all the vampire hate in Biting Bad. I’ve always loved her ability to focus and think through the problems in front of her. She knows how to utilize connections and doesn’t leave a stoned unturned. Merit has always been resourceful, and now she has 100% support from Ethan, which makes things run so much smoother. Even Merit’s attitude has changed. She is still snarky and fun, but she now has this air of maturity and optimism. I love the direction Merit is going.
Ethan is at his finest in Biting Bad. He is finally someone I can respect. He still has that “oldness” to him with being a very old vampire and all, but you can tell he is finally starting to enjoy life, even amongst all the drama. He has so many responsibilities, but Merit helps him have fun and enjoy the little things. She keeps him “human” and young. Ethan also becomes a pretty awesome badass with his sexy vengeance and smooth dealings with Merit’s family. I really love his turnaround.
As always, we get peeks of the lives of the rest of the crew. Mallory is really doing good and I can finally see a positive outlook on her future. Merit’s grandpa goes through some things that surprised and scared me, but I loved it. The GP are as horrible as ever. Oh, their arrogance knows no bounds. I am getting so annoyed with them getting away with so much crap. But some of the good vamps really fight back this time around which made me happy.
Chloe’s writing, as always, was great. She knows her way around some engaging and witty dialogue. Everything flowed really well. I loved the ending, with a tiny bit of a cliffhanger. I love the direction with all the characters, which is rare for any book I read. Can’t wait for the next installment.
The Bad
I really, really had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning. It took me two days to read 70 pages. It was somewhat slow and boring. But one-third the way in, it started taking off.
Also, I didn’t get as excited while reading this book compared to the others in the series. The storyline wasn’t spectacular, just good.
The Snuggly
With Ethan and Merit finally together, we get to enjoy watching them in lovers mode. They are so cute together. No fighting, just love and support. We also get a hint at where their relationship is going. I feel like these two are finally settled. No more big drama like the other books. At least, I hope so.
There is sex scenes but they are so not detailed and often cut short that they are almost YA. Definite sexual tension throughout though.
Final Thoughts
Though Biting Bad wasn’t as good for me compared to the other books in the series, it was still very enjoyable. The characters kept me reading. The little twists and turns had me genuinely surprised. Very Recommended.
“Once upon a time, I tried to have dinner with my best friend, and the apocalypse happened.”
“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.”
“Anything I need to know before we go in there? Is she a black belt in martial arts? Does she carry a crossbow? 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.
Author Bio
Chloe Neill is the New York Times and USA Todaybestselling author of the Chicagoland Vampires and Dark Elite series.
-
A “Chicagoland Vampires” tote bag
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Chicagoland Vampires pens
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A Signed Copy of Biting Cold
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“I Survived Hard Bitten” buttons
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Chicagoland Vampires bookmarks
- A personalized, autographed Chicagoland Vampires and Dark Elite novel
- A Chicagoland Vampires tote bag
- A $50 gift card from Amazon, Indiebound, or Barnes & Noble (Winner’s choice)
- A Chicagoland Vampires audiobook
- A limited edition BITING BAD All Access Pass and Cadogan House lanyard
- Two Cadogan House Koozies, so you can share a beverage with your favorite vamp.
- Bookmarks, pens, buttons, and more swag!
Tuesday, July 30 – The Consummate Reader
Wednesday, July 31 – Me, Myself & Books Blog
Thursday, August 1 – Reading Rain Blog
Friday, August 2 – VampChix & Bite Club, Rantings of a Reading Addict
Tuesday, August 6 (Release Day) – Cocktails & Books
Wednesday, August 7 – Nocturne Reads, Krista’s Dust Jacket
Thursday, August 8 – Urban Fantasy Investigations
Friday, August 9 – Saucy Wenches, Gizmo’s Reviews
Mary Preston
I haven’t started the series yet. Something to look forward to.
Jennifer Bielman
I really hope you give it a try because as a whole they are very good.
Sarah Elizabeth
I haven’t read any of the books from this series yet. I know that you really like them though ☺
Jennifer Bielman
If you tend to like urban fantasy, you will prob like this series.
LadyVampire2u
I absolutely love this series! And I am so looking forward to reading Biting Bad. Congrats on this all new release!:) I am not sure who I think Merit should end up with though. I have liked Ethan from the start. I think he has my vote at the moment. Thanks for the giveaway.
Jennifer Bielman
Ethan and Merit had such a bumpy start but now I can’t see them ever being separated.
Cherry
To be perfectly honest, I’ve been avoiding Chloe for years since I got disappointed with Firespell. But since you are recommending it, maybe it is time for me to re-evaluate things with this series.
Jennifer Bielman
Hmm, I never read her other series so it’s hard to say. Chloe’s books aren’t always perfect, but I think you should try the first book out of this series. I think it’s awesome.
Brandi Kosiner
Great to hear that she creates characters that stay with you in this series.
Jennifer Bielman
It’s always what I look for first in book, great characters.
Jess L
One of my favorite authors, so thanks for the giveaway and review. Super excited for Biting Bad to get delivered to my Kindle tomorrow!
Jennifer Bielman
Hehe, you will like it if you are a Neill fan. Biting Bad kind of had the feel of her first books.
hlasala
I love the Chicagoland Vampires series and can’t wait to read what’s in store for Merit and Ethan. 🙂
Jennifer Bielman
Good things, good things. Believe me. You will be happy.
Whit Martin
I love this series, and I can not wait to read this book! The giveaway is awesome!
Whit@Whit’s Book World
Jennifer Bielman
Happy to hear it. Happy reading and good luck.
Robin
I absolutely agree with Chloe’s assessment of Gabe. He is hot and boyfriend material.
Jennifer Bielman
I know right? I love him!
Jessica Etches
I haven’t read the series yet! I have the first book sitting on my shelf and I really need to get to it.
Jennifer Bielman
OOOH, so excited for you. You get to experience for the first time soon. Yes, you must pick the book up.
Synchronized Reading
I’ve still not made it to the second book yet *looks away in shame*! I read the first book at the end of last year, I think, but haven’t been putting off book 2 for some reason. I really need to play catch up 🙂
Janina @ Synchronized Reading
Jennifer Bielman
I know, secondbookitus can be deadly. 🙂 This series really does get better with each book.
drkngl
Oh I’ve been waiting for so long. Can’t wait to get my hands on it! Very nice review btw, made me even more anxious to read it!
Jennifer Bielman
Happy you liked my review. I hope you love it when you read it.
Amiee Ryan
Great review! I can’t wait to read Biting Bad!! One more day! I love Ethan! he is book boyfriend material 😀 but I also have a soft spot for Gabriel 🙂
Thanks for the giveaway!
amieesnow@gmail(dot)com
Jennifer Bielman
Ethan is pretty awesome but I am a Noah lover. I hope you love the book!
Linda
Love this, =) already pre-ordered and can´t wait for my chance to read!
Thanks for the giveaway & Happy Monday!
//Linda
Jennifer Bielman
Yay!! I am excited for you. Just knowing you get to read it soon.
Melody Borgeson
I haven’t ever read this series. I don’t have much time to add a new series to my list. But I am glad you love the series.
Jennifer Bielman
AWWW, you are so missing out but I totally get it too.
Vivian
Who’s going to download it once it hits midnight tonight? 😀 Lovely review!
Jennifer Bielman
🙂 Thanks so much.
Beckie Voigts
I have yet to read all of this series. I have read the first 2 but none after. Does the series get better as it goes along? The covers are beautiful. Thanks for the giveaway and I really enjoyed reading the author guest post.
Beckie @ Bittersweet Enchantment
Jennifer Bielman
I did love the first couple book the most but the series continues to be great. Only this one was a little less than the others.
angieerickson
Love your Blog! I can’t wait for Chloe Neill’s Biting Bad! I adore Merit and can’t wait to see what she’s going to do next!
Jennifer Bielman
Thanks! Merit is doing so great. And with Ethan no less. lol. You will be happy.
Maris
First of all, I messed up on the rafflecopter…forgot to leave my name under the comment section, instead I pasted the url from twitter. Sorry, I’m not fully operational today. Anyway, thanks for the giveaway. I really enjoy Chloe’s books. Damaris dsr002(at)gmail(dot)com
Jennifer Bielman
No worries. I will make a note of it if you get drawn. Thanks for stopping by.
Barbara E.
Great review and I loved all the quotes you chose. The Chicagoland Vampire series is awesome and I’m looking forward to reading Biting Bad.
Jennifer Bielman
Those were the best I think. I am all about the humor in Chloe’s books.
Anna
I am so looking forward to this book! My favorite male character in this series has always been Catcher, although Gabe is a close second.
Jennifer Bielman
Yeah, Catcher will always have a special place in my heart. I hope him and Mallory get back together.
Diane
Thanks for the quotes!!! Only temps me more…getting it as soon as it’s out!
Jennifer Bielman
That’s what I am shooting for. 🙂
Tasha Turner
We are reading this series on a couple of Goidreads groups.
Jennifer Bielman
Awesome. Hope everyone loves it.
Stephanie Fredrick
I love Gabriel. He is definetly book boyfriend material. Tough, sexy, loyal and a family man. Can’t get any better. I am really curious though about his and Merits connection. I can’t wait to learn more about him and the prophecy.
Jennifer Bielman
He is pretty awesome. It’s hard not to like it.
bn100
Very nice honest review
Jennifer Bielman
Thanks.
Kbaby81
I’m really into Urban Fantasy and my cousin loves. these books! I’ve not started the first one yet because I’m trying to catch up on my R2R books as promised. I can’t wait though!!
Jennifer Bielman
This is a great UF series. It has all the elements.
Jaclyn Canada
This is one of those series that I’ve heard a lot of great things about, but I haven’t gotten to yet. I think that I would really enjoy Merit. I like what you said about Ethan and Merit finally being together and seeing things settle down. Plus, Chloe’s writing appears to be pretty great. Thank you so much for a great review! Jaclyn @ JC’s Book Haven.
Jennifer Bielman
She has a great writing style. Though you will be frustrated with Ethan for a lot of the series, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
BookLady
Congratulations to Chloe on the release of Biting Bad! I love the Chicagoland Vampires Series and I think Ethan is fabulous book boyfriend material. Thanks for sharing the great review.
Jennifer Bielman
I agree, Ethan will always be number 1 for most readers.
sherry fundin
Cool cover and awesome giveaway. Congrats on the release.
Jennifer Bielman
I just love the cover. Plus, purple is my fav color.
Lauren B
Great review – love the good, the bad and the snuggly :0)
Ethan is definitely my favorite book boyfriend in the series.
Jennifer Bielman
Thanks, I try to cover all the bases in my reviews. 🙂
miki
0_0 THANK YOU!!!! an international stop!! thank you i was starting to get desesperate for an opportunity to win too^^thank you
i love this series and i follow it in french too ( but we are behind^^;;) i love this new cover the color is perfect and my favourite character is gabriel keene ( can’t resist shifter^^)
thank you once again!!!
Jennifer Bielman
🙂 I decide to splurge and just pay the international shipping if that’s the winner chosen. I always feel bad making so many things US only.
hehe, oh yes, can’t resist a shifter. I love the color of the cover too. So pretty.
miki
thank you once again!!
Diane Lynch
I love Chloe Neill! Great blog and giveaway!
Jennifer Bielman
Thanks so much for stopping by.
Eva Millien
Thanks for sharing your review and the giveaway. I love the Chicagoland Vampires. And if you are really going to make me pick one, I will have to go with Gabriel. Doesn’t mean I won’t change my mind later though. evamillen at gmail dot com
Jennifer Bielman
LOL I know, it’s so hard to pick among all the yummy men.
summerironqueen
Personally, I really like Jonah but that’s just me.
Jennifer Bielman
Yup, he us my fav too. I said Noah instead of Jonah to someone else. I don’t know why I got confused. lol.
Bookluvrs Haven
I haven’t read this yet, but it sounds pretty interesting. I am always on the lockout for a good vampire series. Thank you for the giveaway opportunity!
Lily @ Bookluvrs Haven
Jennifer Bielman
This is definitely a great vampire series.
Texas Book Lover
I am so glad that Ethan and Merit are finally together. I think that is what I am looking forward to the most in this book.
Jennifer Bielman
Yes, me too. That’s why I was most excited for this book.
Krista
I love Ethan of course!
LAWonder
I was that way with Twilight but I am so thankful I stuck with it. I have read the whole series numerous times.
Jennifer Bielman
I liked Twilight too. Nothing special, but a fun read.
Priyanka Jadhav
I haven’t started this series yet but sounds great! nice work!!
vidamisterio
I read and enjoyed this book. But you are right it wasn’t as good as the rest of the series. It was a 3 starer for me.
Jennifer Bielman
Happy I am not the only one who thought so.
Dalene Rodman
I haven’t read any of the book in this series yet, they are on my tbr list though, thank you for the review and giveaway.
mariska
I am really happy that ethan and merit are together.
And I really like this serie, thanks for your review and for the chance to win this book.
Mariska