This novella is set in the world of the Brotherhood featuring two entirely new characters. Ahmare is seeking to gain her brother’s freedom from Chalen, his brutal captor, forced to comply with demands that stretch her moral limits. Duran is also one of Chalen’s captives, imprisoned for 21 years because he won’t divulge the location of something precious to this heartless leader of a silent force. Ahmare and Duran are made to team up to fulfill the final challenge, both having similar goals but with differing motivations.
There’s no lead up to the action in this story as it ramps up immediately. We learn about Ahmare and Duran through their revelations to each other as they make their way to the secret destination. Duran’s tragic history is heartbreaking and despite the brutality he’s experienced, there’s a sense of innocence about him that tempers the violent aspect of his nature. Ahmare is formidable in her own right and recognizes Duran’s nobility. I was struck by the constant contrasts of good and evil, violence and tenderness, passion and affection. All transitioned at will, making this an emotionally laden story filled with contradictions. And, as Duran’s history is slowly revealed, the discoveries are shocking.
I was happy to get the audio version because Jim Frangione knows how to deliver these stories. It moves at breakneck speed, not reading at all like a short story because so much happened. Ahmare and Duran are always at the center and it was remarkable how well defined they become. There are outcomes that I suspect will impact the Brotherhood and I don’t think we’ve seen the last of these characters. This was such a good story and I’m pleased to have enjoyed yet another novella in the series.
Book Info
- Release Date: January 9, 2019
- Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #16.5
- Narrator: Jim Frangione
- Audio Length: 6 hours, 25 minutes
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(I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)
Wonderful review, Jonetta! I can tell this one was fun and engaging. I’m beginning to think J.R. Ward doesn’t sleep- she is a prolific author! ♥️
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Thank you, Jennifer! And her full length books are super long, like 700 pages.
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Sounds like one you really enjoyed, Jonetta. I have not read anything by this author. I do need to take a look at her books.
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I did enjoy, Marialyce! I’m not sure this would be your cuppa…can you abide vampires? She’s a great storyteller.
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I have liked a book or 10 on Vampires. I did read a few Anne Rice books and with a guilty pleasure in mind, I did enjoy the Twilight series.
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Then you might like these. The fantasy aspect is intricate, the dialogue often outrageous and the storytelling mesmerizing.
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Wonderful review, Jonetta!
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Thanks, Darinda!
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Great post Jonetta. I didn’t realize you liked this genre. Now I do!
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Thanks, Mackey! I don’t read much anymore but I do follow this series.
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I’ve not heard of either this series nor the author. Will have to research both. 😀
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This series is her signature one though she writes in other genres.
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Thanks, Jonetta! 😀
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definitely looks fun!
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The series can be fun but this story is on the more serious side.
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Wonderful review Jonetta. It’s so good when the narrator helps you enjoy the book even more.
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Thanks, RoseMarie! I switched to audio midway through the series and haven’t looked back.
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😊😊
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Fantastic review, Jonetta! I’m pretty sure I have this one on my Tbr but need to check! I just started listening to The Thief on audio today, which is the first time I’ve listened to a BDB on audio but so far I’m loving the narrator and think he’s the same for this one? If so, I may get this from audible! Glad you enjoyed it.
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Thank you, Stephanie! Yes, Frangione is the only narrator for the entire series. I think you’ll love this one.
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You’re welcome! Oh, fantastic! He’s good and I’m a tough one when it comes to audiobooks…I either love or hate them and a good narrator makes a huge difference. I’m sure I will. I love this series so much.
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Frangione just gets this series! I switched over to audio at book #12 and can never go back to reading. I didn’t know we had this series in common, Stephanie💕
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Oh yes! This is one of my favorite series ever! ♥ I LOVE this series so much…I have a thing for vampires though, LOL! I’d love to bring Rhage home, but I think my hubby might not like that at all, haha!
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I read the first book in the series and never read another, and it wasn’t that I didn’t like it it just got pushed to the side, although I have enjoyed her contemporary books!
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This series certainly is a commitment. I love this one and enjoyed The Bourbon Kings series.
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