I wanted to take a minute to answer a few more questions that I get asked pretty frequently. But first I'd like to say, please, don't mistake my meaning. None of this is to be rude in any way.
I get asked fairly often if I will read or review someone's book. The truth is, I simply do not have the time. It's not that I don't care. Right now, I'm writing two books. That is a lot of work and takes a great deal of time. I'm also making notes on future projects.
As I've said before, I am responsible for all of my promotional efforts as well as financial planning. Plus, I've got a home and a family that I'm responsible for.
I barely have a moment to myself. So, when I say that I do not have time to read or review someone's work, I'm not being a jerk. I'm telling you the truth.
Aside from the fact that my time is limited, reading others works and offering critique opens up a HUGE legal issue.
I've known authors who were kind enough to do this for other people. Then, when they had a work published on down the line, the person whose work they read SWORE that they stole the idea from them. It didn't matter that the book published was drafted long before they read the other person's work. To be blunt, I don't have time for that either. LOL No one needs that kind of stress in their lives.
Like I said, none of this is meant to sound rude or harsh. I just want people to know my honest reasoning. I am very flattered that anyone thinks I'm qualified to look over their work, or that they would value my opinion. That is awesome. I simply do not have time. I hope everyone can understand that.
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Friday, March 14, 2014
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
How much do reviews matter to you?
I've often wondered how important reviews actually are. I try to look at it objectively and not just from the perspective of an author. So, I'll answer the question as honestly as I can from both perspectives.
As an author, it's wonderful to know when someone loved my book. However, it's also more likely that people who HATE it will leave a review. I'm not sure why this is true, but it seems to be. People who love the story seem more likely to send me an email. Don't get me wrong, I greatly appreciate this. Kind words do wonders for encouraging me and keeping me motivated to do what I love. I suppose the people who leave bad reviews do so because they just want to "hate and run." LOL Sending an email might actually open up *gasp* a dialogue between them and the author.
Constructive criticism is often difficult to hear, but totally understandable. Everyone sees things differently and has different opinions. However, bashing an author on a personal level is horrible and should never be considered a review. As a rule, I don't respond to reviews. I have broken that rule once when someone actually called me names. That's right, they attacked ME, not THE BOOK. Still, I was professional and to the point. And I only responded ONCE. (By the way, that review was removed by the site for violating policy. Yes, it was that bad.)
Also, it seems that many bad reviews are planted delibrately by others who seek only to make the author and their work look bad. Why anyone would put such effort into bashing someone else is beyond me, but it happens.
I've read in several blog posts and online discussions that reviewers are uncomfortable when an author responds, even if it's to say "thank you." So, unless someone draws my attention to a review they posted, I don't even do that.
I sincerely appreciate someone taking the time to read and review my work. I read a post yesterday in which the individual said they thought it was tacky for an author to post links to "great reviews." Seriously? We aren't allowed to gush when someone totally gets us and what we were trying to say?
Anyway, as an author, I think that reviews only matter to me when they are in reference to my books. (Sorry, didn't mean to go into a rant.)
As a reader, which I've been all my life, I tend to overlook reviews for the most part. Most of the time, I've already made up my mind to purchase the book based on a few factors.
1. The cover art must catch my attention. I'm sorry to say, but I really do judge books by their cover.
2. Price is the next thing I look at. I'm most likely to purchase the book if it's under $5. The cheaper it is, the more likely I am to buy it.
3. The blurb. I read the book's description. If it sounds like something I might like, the cover looks good, and the price is right, I'll buy it.
Beyond that, I might glance at the reviews, but they have only once changed my mind. That was because I saw a book had rape in it, which I have no desire to read about. (Or see in a movie for that matter.)
Even before I was published, I only glanced at reviews if I was bored or had a spare minute. And they still didn't matter to me. In particular the really bad, ranting and raving reviews (in my opinion) only made the reviewer look bad, not the author.
So, that's my 2 cents on the subject. How much do reviews matter to you?
As an author, it's wonderful to know when someone loved my book. However, it's also more likely that people who HATE it will leave a review. I'm not sure why this is true, but it seems to be. People who love the story seem more likely to send me an email. Don't get me wrong, I greatly appreciate this. Kind words do wonders for encouraging me and keeping me motivated to do what I love. I suppose the people who leave bad reviews do so because they just want to "hate and run." LOL Sending an email might actually open up *gasp* a dialogue between them and the author.
Constructive criticism is often difficult to hear, but totally understandable. Everyone sees things differently and has different opinions. However, bashing an author on a personal level is horrible and should never be considered a review. As a rule, I don't respond to reviews. I have broken that rule once when someone actually called me names. That's right, they attacked ME, not THE BOOK. Still, I was professional and to the point. And I only responded ONCE. (By the way, that review was removed by the site for violating policy. Yes, it was that bad.)
Also, it seems that many bad reviews are planted delibrately by others who seek only to make the author and their work look bad. Why anyone would put such effort into bashing someone else is beyond me, but it happens.
I've read in several blog posts and online discussions that reviewers are uncomfortable when an author responds, even if it's to say "thank you." So, unless someone draws my attention to a review they posted, I don't even do that.
I sincerely appreciate someone taking the time to read and review my work. I read a post yesterday in which the individual said they thought it was tacky for an author to post links to "great reviews." Seriously? We aren't allowed to gush when someone totally gets us and what we were trying to say?
Anyway, as an author, I think that reviews only matter to me when they are in reference to my books. (Sorry, didn't mean to go into a rant.)
As a reader, which I've been all my life, I tend to overlook reviews for the most part. Most of the time, I've already made up my mind to purchase the book based on a few factors.
1. The cover art must catch my attention. I'm sorry to say, but I really do judge books by their cover.
2. Price is the next thing I look at. I'm most likely to purchase the book if it's under $5. The cheaper it is, the more likely I am to buy it.
3. The blurb. I read the book's description. If it sounds like something I might like, the cover looks good, and the price is right, I'll buy it.
Beyond that, I might glance at the reviews, but they have only once changed my mind. That was because I saw a book had rape in it, which I have no desire to read about. (Or see in a movie for that matter.)
Even before I was published, I only glanced at reviews if I was bored or had a spare minute. And they still didn't matter to me. In particular the really bad, ranting and raving reviews (in my opinion) only made the reviewer look bad, not the author.
So, that's my 2 cents on the subject. How much do reviews matter to you?
Monday, August 8, 2011
Why are some reviewers so cruel?
We've all read them, nasty reviews. Whether they were about a book we wrote or not, everyone has read at least one scathing review and cringed. The reason I'm writing about this is because it's been on my mind.
First let me say I don't expect everyone to like everything I write. Of course, that would be wonderful, but nothing is perfect. I've read plenty of books I didn't like. But, even before I was a published author it never occurred to me to write a rude review or reveal the plot in a public forum.
I cannot imagine why someone would behave this way. Most professional reviewers are just that professional. Let me make it clear that these are NOT the folks I'm talking about. I'm talking about someone who decides to half pay attention to the book, then quote it incorrectly, and give away every single plot twist in a "review." There are also those who call the author names. Or use words to describe the story like "stupid." That's just plain rude.
I had this happen to me recently and was caught between shock and horror. I still am. I keep asking, "Why would anyone do this?" Why not just say, "I didn't like the book because the plot didn't work for me, etc." Why be a jerk?
Anyway, I'm still baffled by this behavior. I suppose it falls into the confusing category along with why some people think a 3 star rating is good.
It's not just that I've been insulted. I've been published for 4 years this month and believe me my hide has gotten pretty thick. For some reason this reviewer's rude remarks really got to me.
Everyone who wants to improve their craft does want feedback, but there's a way to offer it: minus name calling and in a professional manner. Otherwise it's just hostile and while the author may read it and have their feelings hurt, that's likely all it will accomplish.
It's hard not to take things like that personally when you put so much time and effort into a story. It makes me wonder if I've done something to the reviewer (unintentionally since I do not speak to people that way) to make them treat me like that. I say me and not my book, because the review in question was so insulting it was personal.
I suppose my point is, if you review books and you come across one you don't like, at least be kind in your remarks and thoughtful of how you say you didn't enjoy the book. Think how you might feel if someone scanned 3 months of your life/work in 3 hours and called it crap.
It's perfectly all right to not like everything. Hell, it's a free country. All I'm saying is, there's no reason to be mean. The author didn't write that book just to piss you off/ruin your day/week, or whatever. I swear.
First let me say I don't expect everyone to like everything I write. Of course, that would be wonderful, but nothing is perfect. I've read plenty of books I didn't like. But, even before I was a published author it never occurred to me to write a rude review or reveal the plot in a public forum.
I cannot imagine why someone would behave this way. Most professional reviewers are just that professional. Let me make it clear that these are NOT the folks I'm talking about. I'm talking about someone who decides to half pay attention to the book, then quote it incorrectly, and give away every single plot twist in a "review." There are also those who call the author names. Or use words to describe the story like "stupid." That's just plain rude.
I had this happen to me recently and was caught between shock and horror. I still am. I keep asking, "Why would anyone do this?" Why not just say, "I didn't like the book because the plot didn't work for me, etc." Why be a jerk?
Anyway, I'm still baffled by this behavior. I suppose it falls into the confusing category along with why some people think a 3 star rating is good.
It's not just that I've been insulted. I've been published for 4 years this month and believe me my hide has gotten pretty thick. For some reason this reviewer's rude remarks really got to me.
Everyone who wants to improve their craft does want feedback, but there's a way to offer it: minus name calling and in a professional manner. Otherwise it's just hostile and while the author may read it and have their feelings hurt, that's likely all it will accomplish.
It's hard not to take things like that personally when you put so much time and effort into a story. It makes me wonder if I've done something to the reviewer (unintentionally since I do not speak to people that way) to make them treat me like that. I say me and not my book, because the review in question was so insulting it was personal.
I suppose my point is, if you review books and you come across one you don't like, at least be kind in your remarks and thoughtful of how you say you didn't enjoy the book. Think how you might feel if someone scanned 3 months of your life/work in 3 hours and called it crap.
It's perfectly all right to not like everything. Hell, it's a free country. All I'm saying is, there's no reason to be mean. The author didn't write that book just to piss you off/ruin your day/week, or whatever. I swear.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The character I identify with most
Okay, I know I should let it go and I promise to get over it soon. The review mentioned in the post below just REALLY bothered me. I'm sure if you read the post that my reasons are obvious. The reviewer calls the book a "Mary Sue" saying that I'm the main character Jewel and then goes on to call her "uninteresting."
Gee, thanks a lot. So, in all fairness I took another look at the story. I already knew that I'm nothing like Jewel. But as I re-read the book I remembered how much fun it was to write Alucard. How I never had to second guess what he would do because I already knew ... because he was the character I most identified with in the story. If it is a Mary Sue in any sense then at least cast me as the proper character. I am Alucard. And his shadow that makes vulgar gestures behind his back. lol I'm sarcastic, have a warped sense of humor, and often dress in black. I also like long coats and have a few in my wardrobe. He's ME for crying out loud. Oh, and I've fantasized about being the boogeyman. lol Probably TMI. Sorry.
One more thing I forgot about Vincent, he transforms into a gargoyle. Yeah, nothing like Jean-Claude, like I already said. Just because one vampire in another book was sexy doesn't mean they made sexy famous.
But after reading the story again and seeing so much of myself in Alucard, it does mean I might need therapy. LOL
Gee, thanks a lot. So, in all fairness I took another look at the story. I already knew that I'm nothing like Jewel. But as I re-read the book I remembered how much fun it was to write Alucard. How I never had to second guess what he would do because I already knew ... because he was the character I most identified with in the story. If it is a Mary Sue in any sense then at least cast me as the proper character. I am Alucard. And his shadow that makes vulgar gestures behind his back. lol I'm sarcastic, have a warped sense of humor, and often dress in black. I also like long coats and have a few in my wardrobe. He's ME for crying out loud. Oh, and I've fantasized about being the boogeyman. lol Probably TMI. Sorry.
One more thing I forgot about Vincent, he transforms into a gargoyle. Yeah, nothing like Jean-Claude, like I already said. Just because one vampire in another book was sexy doesn't mean they made sexy famous.
But after reading the story again and seeing so much of myself in Alucard, it does mean I might need therapy. LOL
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Diary of an Incubus, very first review:)
Diary of an Incubus has just received it's very first review. Check it out:)
http://www.paranormalromance.org/reviews/review.php?id=31727
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
How can one witch get so lucky?
This is the very first review of Bitten and I am thrilled! I am so glad that people are enjoying this book, because I LOVED writing it:)
http://www.paranormalromance.org/reviews/review.php?id=31135
http://www.paranormalromance.org/reviews/review.php?id=31135
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Very first review for Object of My Affection!
I tell you what, getting a review like this is better than chocolate with midol sprinkles on a bad day. LOL Seriously, I am thrilled::) I sincerely hope that everyone continues to enjoy this series as much as I enjoy writing it. I don't just share these reviews to brag, or strictly for promo. I share them because I want to share my excitement with my fans. (Or more correctly Lilith and Marco's fans. LOL) It always amazes me when people write to say how much they have enjoyed one of my books. If not for you guys, I wouldn't be here. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
From Romance Junkie's, Maria Shaink
5 RIBBONS!!!!
OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION finds our heroine, Lilith Mercury, a werewolf hunter, after the werewolf citizenship legislation has been passed, which makes it hard to know who the enemy is. After spending some time with werewolf Marco, she knows that though her wolf cries out to him, her human heart belongs to another. Alfred is truly the man she has loved since childhood and now the woman she has become is ready to fall for him. But things won’t be easy for the pair. Alfred’s work with the Wizard Council takes him off-planet frequently and she’s got a lot of men, humans and werewolves alike, who want to spend time with her. Again, some enemies are revealed and others become allies, but the action never lets up for our Lilith…
Lilith Mercury is back in this sequel to RED, and if you thought things were getting quiet, you were wrong! The adventure is back and even more intense. Lilith is in the first throes of newly-realized love with Alfred, who had previously taken a backseat to Marco. Marco hasn’t given up though and the interplay between all of these characters is both sexy and edgy. Ms. Kitts continues to surprise and delight me with her dramatic flair and her talent for weaving an intricate storyline. She gives up some secrets whilst keeping the threads of other storylines developing and dangling before the reader, delectably awaiting resolution. Both the new and returning characters in this story are enjoyable, compelling and realistic. The love affair of Alfred and Lilith is heart-melting in its sincerity and her Halloween scene with Marco is just as touching.
Ms. Kitts has once again outdone herself in this book, using her fantastic narrative writing skills to bring the reader into the exciting, visceral world she has created out of fantasy, science fiction and shape—shifter lore. The loves scenes are sexy, sensual and as well-written as they come. The dialogue between the characters is funny, agile and really expressive of their individual personalities. Top it all off with some killer fight scenes and all the elements combine to bring the reader a fantastic story. This is definitely a keeper, and plan on becoming a fan for life after reading!
From Romance Junkie's, Maria Shaink
5 RIBBONS!!!!
OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION finds our heroine, Lilith Mercury, a werewolf hunter, after the werewolf citizenship legislation has been passed, which makes it hard to know who the enemy is. After spending some time with werewolf Marco, she knows that though her wolf cries out to him, her human heart belongs to another. Alfred is truly the man she has loved since childhood and now the woman she has become is ready to fall for him. But things won’t be easy for the pair. Alfred’s work with the Wizard Council takes him off-planet frequently and she’s got a lot of men, humans and werewolves alike, who want to spend time with her. Again, some enemies are revealed and others become allies, but the action never lets up for our Lilith…
Lilith Mercury is back in this sequel to RED, and if you thought things were getting quiet, you were wrong! The adventure is back and even more intense. Lilith is in the first throes of newly-realized love with Alfred, who had previously taken a backseat to Marco. Marco hasn’t given up though and the interplay between all of these characters is both sexy and edgy. Ms. Kitts continues to surprise and delight me with her dramatic flair and her talent for weaving an intricate storyline. She gives up some secrets whilst keeping the threads of other storylines developing and dangling before the reader, delectably awaiting resolution. Both the new and returning characters in this story are enjoyable, compelling and realistic. The love affair of Alfred and Lilith is heart-melting in its sincerity and her Halloween scene with Marco is just as touching.
Ms. Kitts has once again outdone herself in this book, using her fantastic narrative writing skills to bring the reader into the exciting, visceral world she has created out of fantasy, science fiction and shape—shifter lore. The loves scenes are sexy, sensual and as well-written as they come. The dialogue between the characters is funny, agile and really expressive of their individual personalities. Top it all off with some killer fight scenes and all the elements combine to bring the reader a fantastic story. This is definitely a keeper, and plan on becoming a fan for life after reading!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Another great review for Red!
WOOHOO! *pauses to do a little dance* Oh, crap. I hear thunder. That must have been the wrong dance. Anyway, this post isn't about dancing. It's about the reason I FEEL like dancing! My debut novel RED just got another great review! This one is from ParaNormalRomance, and I couldn't wait to share it:)
"action and electric heat"
Lilith Mercury is one of those women you don't mess with or she will show you first hand what a bad-ass she is. Having the job of hunting werewolves has hardened her into the strong woman she is. She was born into the job through her father being part of the police squad that was in charge of exterminating the outlaw Lycan Species. She loves her job, it makes her feel alive. But then Marco walks into her life and all of her firm ideas take a beating when she realizes that Marco is all that she has been taught to fight, to take out. Marco is "Off Limits" to her because he is a werewolf. But Lilith can't fight the attraction she feels for him. Could all that she has been taught be wrong? Then there is Alfred, her partner and housemate for years. What is going on? She not only finds it impossible to stay away from Marco, but she is finding the man she has known for years very attractive, a man that would help and do anything for her. Add to that the police detective and Lilith wonders what is she doing, feeling here?
How is she going to chose between three great guys that will do anything for her? Alfred is willing to wait as long as needed because his love for her is that strong. Then you have Marco, the alpha werewolf that is so sensual, he knows what he wants and has faith that the wait will end with him winning Lilith.
Tracey H. Kitts blew me away with the world she built in this story. The characters were so real and knew what they wanted; they just needed to get Lilith to see it their way. The action and electric heat between all of the characters made the story flow effortlessly. I look forward to reading the next in this great series by Tracey H Kitts.
Reviewed by Nicole Harvey
Posted November 1, 2007 - ParaNormalRomance
"action and electric heat"
Lilith Mercury is one of those women you don't mess with or she will show you first hand what a bad-ass she is. Having the job of hunting werewolves has hardened her into the strong woman she is. She was born into the job through her father being part of the police squad that was in charge of exterminating the outlaw Lycan Species. She loves her job, it makes her feel alive. But then Marco walks into her life and all of her firm ideas take a beating when she realizes that Marco is all that she has been taught to fight, to take out. Marco is "Off Limits" to her because he is a werewolf. But Lilith can't fight the attraction she feels for him. Could all that she has been taught be wrong? Then there is Alfred, her partner and housemate for years. What is going on? She not only finds it impossible to stay away from Marco, but she is finding the man she has known for years very attractive, a man that would help and do anything for her. Add to that the police detective and Lilith wonders what is she doing, feeling here?
How is she going to chose between three great guys that will do anything for her? Alfred is willing to wait as long as needed because his love for her is that strong. Then you have Marco, the alpha werewolf that is so sensual, he knows what he wants and has faith that the wait will end with him winning Lilith.
Tracey H. Kitts blew me away with the world she built in this story. The characters were so real and knew what they wanted; they just needed to get Lilith to see it their way. The action and electric heat between all of the characters made the story flow effortlessly. I look forward to reading the next in this great series by Tracey H Kitts.
Reviewed by Nicole Harvey
Posted November 1, 2007 - ParaNormalRomance
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
5 Ribbon Review for RED!!!
I cannot begin to express how pleased I was when I read the following review from Maria Shaink of Romance Junkies. What can I say? I'm still doing the happy dance:)
From Romance Junkie's Maria Shaink
BLUE RIBBON RATING: 5 ribbons (out of 5)
Lilith Mercury is a badass girl with the best intentions. She’s a werewolf hunter, born to the job by virtue of her father being part of an interplanetary police squad that exterminates the outlawed Lycan species. She’s great at her job and it’s never been a problem, until she meets Marco. He’s off—limits, being a werewolf and all, but their attraction is undeniable and unstoppable. Then there’s Alfred, the man who’s been her partner and roommate for years, and who she suddenly realizes is not just her friend but a very attractive man who’d do anything to warm her soul. Added into the mix is a very sexy police detective who knows how to show a lady a good time. So who’s a girl to choose?
The story of RED is a fast—paced and highly detailed tale of a werewolf hunter in a world much like our own, but in which werewolves are common knowledge on Earth. In an interesting take on the werewolf legend, the author introduces Lycans as a race created by a mad scientist whose virus infected scores of people on another planet. These first werewolves fled to Earth, and now the people of the original planet, Terran, have agents—hunters—placed on Earth to exterminate them. I really enjoyed this departure from the norm, this blending of paranormal and science fiction genres. Ms. Kitts also blends her debut novel with fantastic details of dream analysis, enchanted journals and psychic powers.
The characters of RED are the best part of the story. Marco is a consummate Alpha and deliciously sensual figure, a man who knows exactly what he wants and has faith that his patience will win the girl of his dreams. Alfred is just as striking—a romantic, patient man whose love for Lilith has been waiting for the right moment to give it voice. I can’t wait to read more about him in the next installment of the Lilith Mercury tales. All the characters in this story come together to create a terrific vignette of Lilith’s life, what she is like, who she really is beyond the sarcastic wit and carefully controlled emotions. The reader knows and comprehends Lilith by the end of the story, and this leaves the reader anticipating the next book for resolutions to questions posed, and new developments in the life of the huntress. Ms. Kitt’s skill in writing is something that very few debut writers are capable of. Her mastery in weaving an intricate storyline and keeping the reader enticed and on edge is what sets her apart in such a gripping way. I fully expect to see her quickly snatched up by some New York publishing house.
The loves scenes in this story were exquisitely tasteful and well—placed. This was not just some excuse to write a lot of hot sex with little—to—no story to balance it. The whole book was oozing with sexual tension and I loved every second of it! Ms. Kitts keeps a lot of tension going on the sexual side of certain interpersonal relationships, while adding humor and fun into other aspects of the book. Every secondary character was well placed and added depth to the story, keeping the plot multilayered and vastly compelling. The scenes featuring Lilith’s great—grandfather had me teary—eyed, while scenes in Marco’s nightclub had my blood running hot. Ms. Kitts is an extremely adept writer who knows how to play to her audience’s emotions, and the personal touches she gives to each character, from Lilith’s poetry to her analysis of dreams, lend credence and humanity to the people inhabiting the pages of this work.
RED is a book that really resonated with me, crawling up into my consciousness like silk—covered fingers. The stage has been set for the next in the Lilith Mercury Werewolf Hunter series, entitled OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION, and I cannot wait to read it when it comes out in October! Fans of Laurell K. Hamilton’s early Anita Blake stories will find a lot to love here. Ms. Kitts’ storytelling is some of the best I have read in a long time, and after finishing this novel, I felt that ache of withdrawal that only comes with reading that last page of a truly great story and cursing yourself for reading it too fast! Anita Blake fans— you have just been served!
From Romance Junkie's Maria Shaink
BLUE RIBBON RATING: 5 ribbons (out of 5)
Lilith Mercury is a badass girl with the best intentions. She’s a werewolf hunter, born to the job by virtue of her father being part of an interplanetary police squad that exterminates the outlawed Lycan species. She’s great at her job and it’s never been a problem, until she meets Marco. He’s off—limits, being a werewolf and all, but their attraction is undeniable and unstoppable. Then there’s Alfred, the man who’s been her partner and roommate for years, and who she suddenly realizes is not just her friend but a very attractive man who’d do anything to warm her soul. Added into the mix is a very sexy police detective who knows how to show a lady a good time. So who’s a girl to choose?
The story of RED is a fast—paced and highly detailed tale of a werewolf hunter in a world much like our own, but in which werewolves are common knowledge on Earth. In an interesting take on the werewolf legend, the author introduces Lycans as a race created by a mad scientist whose virus infected scores of people on another planet. These first werewolves fled to Earth, and now the people of the original planet, Terran, have agents—hunters—placed on Earth to exterminate them. I really enjoyed this departure from the norm, this blending of paranormal and science fiction genres. Ms. Kitts also blends her debut novel with fantastic details of dream analysis, enchanted journals and psychic powers.
The characters of RED are the best part of the story. Marco is a consummate Alpha and deliciously sensual figure, a man who knows exactly what he wants and has faith that his patience will win the girl of his dreams. Alfred is just as striking—a romantic, patient man whose love for Lilith has been waiting for the right moment to give it voice. I can’t wait to read more about him in the next installment of the Lilith Mercury tales. All the characters in this story come together to create a terrific vignette of Lilith’s life, what she is like, who she really is beyond the sarcastic wit and carefully controlled emotions. The reader knows and comprehends Lilith by the end of the story, and this leaves the reader anticipating the next book for resolutions to questions posed, and new developments in the life of the huntress. Ms. Kitt’s skill in writing is something that very few debut writers are capable of. Her mastery in weaving an intricate storyline and keeping the reader enticed and on edge is what sets her apart in such a gripping way. I fully expect to see her quickly snatched up by some New York publishing house.
The loves scenes in this story were exquisitely tasteful and well—placed. This was not just some excuse to write a lot of hot sex with little—to—no story to balance it. The whole book was oozing with sexual tension and I loved every second of it! Ms. Kitts keeps a lot of tension going on the sexual side of certain interpersonal relationships, while adding humor and fun into other aspects of the book. Every secondary character was well placed and added depth to the story, keeping the plot multilayered and vastly compelling. The scenes featuring Lilith’s great—grandfather had me teary—eyed, while scenes in Marco’s nightclub had my blood running hot. Ms. Kitts is an extremely adept writer who knows how to play to her audience’s emotions, and the personal touches she gives to each character, from Lilith’s poetry to her analysis of dreams, lend credence and humanity to the people inhabiting the pages of this work.
RED is a book that really resonated with me, crawling up into my consciousness like silk—covered fingers. The stage has been set for the next in the Lilith Mercury Werewolf Hunter series, entitled OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION, and I cannot wait to read it when it comes out in October! Fans of Laurell K. Hamilton’s early Anita Blake stories will find a lot to love here. Ms. Kitts’ storytelling is some of the best I have read in a long time, and after finishing this novel, I felt that ache of withdrawal that only comes with reading that last page of a truly great story and cursing yourself for reading it too fast! Anita Blake fans— you have just been served!
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