Angela H. (AngelaDionne) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 55 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 10
******************** SPOILERS ****************************************
3 1/2 stars...
I think I have figured out why I was both very happy with this installment and very unhappy. First, I wasn't invested in Payne and Manny the way I have been with other characters, I didn't really know much about them. We have caught glimpses of both of them in previous books but, haven't really gotten to know them or got caught up in their stories. If this was a stand alone book the love story between them would have been more satisfying. I think alot of the three star reviews over this being "their" book is because we are more interested in seeing the book for Qhuinn and Blay or maybe Tohr or maybe even some resolution with Layla. Ms. Ward seems to be back to more of an Urban Fantasy novel than straight romance, which is okay with me as I love Urban Fantasy. I was also okay with Payne and Manny's romance because in my mind the over all story arc was moved along and some questions we've had about certain relationships have been resolved.
What made me very happy with the book was some resolution to the cube (I would say love triangle but there are four people) of V, Butch, Jane and Marissa. After V's book and even Butch's book I was a little upset with how, in my opinion, V and Butch got shafted in the love department. I've always felt that they might love their shellans but they really, truly were IN LOVE with each other, and their story kind of felt like it was in a to be continued... mode. Although we don't see Marissa much in this book we do get to know Jane better and there is kind of a climax to Jane, V and Butch's relationship that made me content. I was glad to see the scenes dealing with V's feelings about his Shellan, his past and what he needed to do to be able to be a whole person.
Which moves me to what really upset me.... there isn't much of Qhuinn and Blay in this book, and no interaction between the two. I was thrilled when Qhuinn finally admitted he was in love with Blay to someone other than himself. I was like.. fist pump... YEAH!... then we get to a scene where he has this "vision" of a girl with Layla's face and his mismatched eyes and my heart just... sank. WHAT IN THE HELL IS WITH THAT? For at least a year we've heard on the blogs and such that Qhuinn and Blay are confirmed HEAs which made waiting for their story to play out much easier... then this is thrown in the mix. I can't stand the thought of Blay and Qhuinn not getting their happily ever after. I don't care if some of the readers don't care for m/m relationships, it would be heartbreaking if they didn't get some happiness together at the end of all this angst between the two.
...................okay, I'm calm now........................
So on Payne and Manny's part in the book 3 stars
V, Butch and Jane's part 5 stars
Qhuinn and Blay's part 1 star
Last thoughts: I wish we knew who the next book was going to be about... there is literally no guessing who it might be. I was glad we got to be introduced to Vek who is to be the main character in the next Fallen Angels book (Envy is the title i think). He seemed interesting and I was glad to get a little background before that book is released later this year.
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3 1/2 stars...
I think I have figured out why I was both very happy with this installment and very unhappy. First, I wasn't invested in Payne and Manny the way I have been with other characters, I didn't really know much about them. We have caught glimpses of both of them in previous books but, haven't really gotten to know them or got caught up in their stories. If this was a stand alone book the love story between them would have been more satisfying. I think alot of the three star reviews over this being "their" book is because we are more interested in seeing the book for Qhuinn and Blay or maybe Tohr or maybe even some resolution with Layla. Ms. Ward seems to be back to more of an Urban Fantasy novel than straight romance, which is okay with me as I love Urban Fantasy. I was also okay with Payne and Manny's romance because in my mind the over all story arc was moved along and some questions we've had about certain relationships have been resolved.
What made me very happy with the book was some resolution to the cube (I would say love triangle but there are four people) of V, Butch, Jane and Marissa. After V's book and even Butch's book I was a little upset with how, in my opinion, V and Butch got shafted in the love department. I've always felt that they might love their shellans but they really, truly were IN LOVE with each other, and their story kind of felt like it was in a to be continued... mode. Although we don't see Marissa much in this book we do get to know Jane better and there is kind of a climax to Jane, V and Butch's relationship that made me content. I was glad to see the scenes dealing with V's feelings about his Shellan, his past and what he needed to do to be able to be a whole person.
Which moves me to what really upset me.... there isn't much of Qhuinn and Blay in this book, and no interaction between the two. I was thrilled when Qhuinn finally admitted he was in love with Blay to someone other than himself. I was like.. fist pump... YEAH!... then we get to a scene where he has this "vision" of a girl with Layla's face and his mismatched eyes and my heart just... sank. WHAT IN THE HELL IS WITH THAT? For at least a year we've heard on the blogs and such that Qhuinn and Blay are confirmed HEAs which made waiting for their story to play out much easier... then this is thrown in the mix. I can't stand the thought of Blay and Qhuinn not getting their happily ever after. I don't care if some of the readers don't care for m/m relationships, it would be heartbreaking if they didn't get some happiness together at the end of all this angst between the two.
...................okay, I'm calm now........................
So on Payne and Manny's part in the book 3 stars
V, Butch and Jane's part 5 stars
Qhuinn and Blay's part 1 star
Last thoughts: I wish we knew who the next book was going to be about... there is literally no guessing who it might be. I was glad we got to be introduced to Vek who is to be the main character in the next Fallen Angels book (Envy is the title i think). He seemed interesting and I was glad to get a little background before that book is released later this year.
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Helpful Score: 5
Kind of disappointed.
Overall, this was an OK contribution to the BDB compendium. There was a LOT of story about Vishous and Jane, for half the book overtaking the Payne/Manny story. I'm not complaining. One thing I really like about JR Ward is that she continues the stories of the other Brothers even after their main story is over.
The best thing about this book was the lack of story about Lessers. Hooray. Thank you JR Ward for finally realizing the Lesser-breaks were just wasting paper. But instead of Lessers, now we read about some guy named Veck who, at the end of the book, never had one single thing to do with the BDB or the overall story being told. I read that Veck is to be a character in another series. It is understandable that Ward wants crossover to get us interested in her other series, but I felt like she was wasting my time.
And speaking of time-wasters, does anyone else cringe every time Layla enters the scene? I wish the un-mated females in this series were as strong as the males. They're either almost-men or completely subservient spineless people with no real compelling character traits. I get that Ward likes her boys, but love stories only work if we love both characters.
Manny and Payne are a good match, the story was good although not as angst-ridden as other BDB books. I was kind of expecting Payne to be Xhex part 2 but she was more like Marissa part 2. OK but a bit too simpering, which is a weird thing to say about someone who can kick the king's ass. And the love scenes between M&P get short shrift, that is a disappointment. Hot scene between hooker and two random males, but pretty much just a shower for Payne and Manny. And there is a break-up between them toward the end that seems contrived, not really character-driven, just to create an excuse to separate them. But I liked their chemistry and Manny is a good addition to their world.
The biggest disappointment was the lack of progress in the Qhuinn/Blaylock story. I guess I was the only person believing this book would finally put them together. I read online now that Ward will supposedly write a novella about them but there is no publication date. I would say that means the publisher is reluctant to publish a "gay" story. Ward even includes this "vision" had by Qhuinn that would strongly suggest that he winds up with Layla! It makes you wonder if Ward's taking too much flack from her publisher or bigoted readers and caving in to a more "traditional" story.
3.5 stars
Overall, this was an OK contribution to the BDB compendium. There was a LOT of story about Vishous and Jane, for half the book overtaking the Payne/Manny story. I'm not complaining. One thing I really like about JR Ward is that she continues the stories of the other Brothers even after their main story is over.
The best thing about this book was the lack of story about Lessers. Hooray. Thank you JR Ward for finally realizing the Lesser-breaks were just wasting paper. But instead of Lessers, now we read about some guy named Veck who, at the end of the book, never had one single thing to do with the BDB or the overall story being told. I read that Veck is to be a character in another series. It is understandable that Ward wants crossover to get us interested in her other series, but I felt like she was wasting my time.
And speaking of time-wasters, does anyone else cringe every time Layla enters the scene? I wish the un-mated females in this series were as strong as the males. They're either almost-men or completely subservient spineless people with no real compelling character traits. I get that Ward likes her boys, but love stories only work if we love both characters.
Manny and Payne are a good match, the story was good although not as angst-ridden as other BDB books. I was kind of expecting Payne to be Xhex part 2 but she was more like Marissa part 2. OK but a bit too simpering, which is a weird thing to say about someone who can kick the king's ass. And the love scenes between M&P get short shrift, that is a disappointment. Hot scene between hooker and two random males, but pretty much just a shower for Payne and Manny. And there is a break-up between them toward the end that seems contrived, not really character-driven, just to create an excuse to separate them. But I liked their chemistry and Manny is a good addition to their world.
The biggest disappointment was the lack of progress in the Qhuinn/Blaylock story. I guess I was the only person believing this book would finally put them together. I read online now that Ward will supposedly write a novella about them but there is no publication date. I would say that means the publisher is reluctant to publish a "gay" story. Ward even includes this "vision" had by Qhuinn that would strongly suggest that he winds up with Layla! It makes you wonder if Ward's taking too much flack from her publisher or bigoted readers and caving in to a more "traditional" story.
3.5 stars
Stacy W. (whatstacy) -
Helpful Score: 5
WOW!! I think this is my favorite next to John Matthews story. There is so much going on in this book. Vishous/Jane, Payne/Manny, Vishous/Butch, and Quinn/Blay. And new characters are introduced. There are plenty of unanswered questions in this story, the war with the "lessers" doesn't progress much, and there are the new characters to whose true purpose is unclear. And this story has a whole lot more sex going on....with everyone. I have read the other reviews, and I don't agree with them at all, but Angela has some valid points. I was hooked into this story and couldn't put it down. JR Ward is a great story teller, and I'm fatally attached to her series.
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Helpful Score: 2
Seriously, I am speechless by the positive reviews of this book. I am a huge BDB fan, but, this book was terribly written. Way too many story lines going on at once, and just overwritten on top of that. I found it tedious in the extreme.
Helpful Score: 2
I love the brothers. They feel like family. I love their relationships, their partners, their loyalty, courage - you name it. I love the way the WARDen writes. So why only three stars? I feel the series is slowly losing its heart. J.R. has always pushed the gritty envelope but lately it feels like it's being pushed to the point that we are losing the very thing that makes this series beloved and that's the good to counteract the harsh. From dialogue to action, everything dark was magnified, everything light was diminished.
Think for a minute back to our original couples. Wrath and Beth, Rhage and Mary, Butch and Marissa, Z and Bella, Vishous and Jane, Phury and Cormia, Rehvenge and Ehlena - what do they all have in common? The guys are hardened, gritty, world-weary warriors until they find their true mate. The women they find are inherently good: Kind, caring individuals that add the perfect counterbalance needed to the darkness in their lives. That is what works so beautifully and makes us believe in their possibilities. It is also what makes us love them. One lifts the other, giving them a reason to be better, making their life worth living, so that the world is once again a worthy place to be and fight for. We can accept all the grime from the various story lines because there is a light, a lifting influence that we know will ultimately prevail. Sigh.
In "Lover Unleashed" that thread is so thin, it is almost nonexistent. Ms. Ward spent so much time with the dark, seamy underbelly of emotion - not just in a couple of the plot lines but in every single one that the reader finds it hard to pull oneself up and out of it long enough to discover the emotions that would make us believe. Even the journey between Manny and Payne, although ending beautifully, was starved for emotional richness while flooded with the physical.
Does no one else wish for some goodness to shine through a little brighter? Does everyone else prefer drudging through the dregs for 400 pages just as long as everyone is happy in the end. Did no one else miss the humor, the touches of lightness that were sprinkled in her previous books? Please don't get me wrong, I understand it's the darkness of the brothers that define BDB but am I the only one who felt like I had feasted in the underbelly then left with too small a towel to clean up with?
Think for a minute back to our original couples. Wrath and Beth, Rhage and Mary, Butch and Marissa, Z and Bella, Vishous and Jane, Phury and Cormia, Rehvenge and Ehlena - what do they all have in common? The guys are hardened, gritty, world-weary warriors until they find their true mate. The women they find are inherently good: Kind, caring individuals that add the perfect counterbalance needed to the darkness in their lives. That is what works so beautifully and makes us believe in their possibilities. It is also what makes us love them. One lifts the other, giving them a reason to be better, making their life worth living, so that the world is once again a worthy place to be and fight for. We can accept all the grime from the various story lines because there is a light, a lifting influence that we know will ultimately prevail. Sigh.
In "Lover Unleashed" that thread is so thin, it is almost nonexistent. Ms. Ward spent so much time with the dark, seamy underbelly of emotion - not just in a couple of the plot lines but in every single one that the reader finds it hard to pull oneself up and out of it long enough to discover the emotions that would make us believe. Even the journey between Manny and Payne, although ending beautifully, was starved for emotional richness while flooded with the physical.
Does no one else wish for some goodness to shine through a little brighter? Does everyone else prefer drudging through the dregs for 400 pages just as long as everyone is happy in the end. Did no one else miss the humor, the touches of lightness that were sprinkled in her previous books? Please don't get me wrong, I understand it's the darkness of the brothers that define BDB but am I the only one who felt like I had feasted in the underbelly then left with too small a towel to clean up with?
Helpful Score: 1
It dragged and made me feel bored halfway through the book. I ended up reading something else then coming back to Lover Unleashed and I still struggled to finish it. Manny and Payne's love story DRAGS compared to the other stories, and there is really no bad guy for them to fight. This totally sucked and let me down, but I do feel that J.R. Ward is opening the path to a book regarding Qhuinn/Blay/Saxton/Layla. Maybe Layla will be the mom of Qhuinn and Blay's future baby perhaps she will be the surrogate or something...Idk I'm just giving myself something to look forward to!!!
Helpful Score: 1
Overall, this wasn't as good as Lover Mine. I would give this three stars.
I expected the book to be about Payne, but really this is more about V and Jane with a bit of Butch thrown in. This read more like Lover Unbound part II. You see that things between Jane and V aren't as happy as we though they were. All the attention devoted to their relationship made me wonder if Ward is trying to make up for the brouhaha she created with Lover Unbound. So many were unhappy with that book. Big chunks of Lover Unleashed deal with V's relationship with Jane. V has a breakdown in this book. The poor guy was long overdue for one. He rebuilds himself, but it's very painful to read the effect his breakdown had on him, Jane, and Butch. At Jane's request, Butch plays a big part in V's healing. However, poor Marissa is in the dark as usual about what's going on. The most interesting part of this book is V. I really thought his character grew so much. His emotional growth is as apparent as Z's. Ward sure does love her tortured alpha male heroes.
The romance scenes between V and Jane are hotter than those between Manny and Payne. Manny and Payne didn't really come alive for me. Jane and V mature as a couple. I was glad to get a better idea of what they're like.
Payne was built up to be this really adept warrior like her twin brother, but here she's more like a debutante. She's constantly saying "please" and "thank you". She's more meek than anything else. I was hoping to see some fighting of Lessors side by side with Xhex. That didn't happen. I felt letdown by how Payne's character fizzled into the typical Other Side heroine. Verily, she's no different really from the overly sweet Cormia or subservient Layla. It's another 300-some year old virgin who has never seen a car or colors or any of the things we have in the modern world. Ward did this before so it was boring to read it again in Lover Unleashed.
For those who are Quinn/Blay fans, don't get your hopes up. This book is a repeat of the same. I wish Qhuinn would grow a pair and act on his feelings. Perhaps it's Ward who needs to grow a pair and fully commit to writing a romance between Blay/Quinn instead of teasing readers the way she does with the "will they or won't they get together?"
The Lessors are hardly in this book. Yes! I loved that Ward made the villains vampires from the Old Country. I had always wondered why all the vampires were in the USA. There's a really hot scene between two of the vampire villains and a human female. You have to read it yourself. *fans self* Have some cold water nearby.
If you've stuck with the Black Dagger Brotherhood so far, you'll want to read this book. This is no Lover Awakened or Lover Mine. However, if you haven't read the BDB, this is not the book to start the series for you'll be lost.
I expected the book to be about Payne, but really this is more about V and Jane with a bit of Butch thrown in. This read more like Lover Unbound part II. You see that things between Jane and V aren't as happy as we though they were. All the attention devoted to their relationship made me wonder if Ward is trying to make up for the brouhaha she created with Lover Unbound. So many were unhappy with that book. Big chunks of Lover Unleashed deal with V's relationship with Jane. V has a breakdown in this book. The poor guy was long overdue for one. He rebuilds himself, but it's very painful to read the effect his breakdown had on him, Jane, and Butch. At Jane's request, Butch plays a big part in V's healing. However, poor Marissa is in the dark as usual about what's going on. The most interesting part of this book is V. I really thought his character grew so much. His emotional growth is as apparent as Z's. Ward sure does love her tortured alpha male heroes.
The romance scenes between V and Jane are hotter than those between Manny and Payne. Manny and Payne didn't really come alive for me. Jane and V mature as a couple. I was glad to get a better idea of what they're like.
Payne was built up to be this really adept warrior like her twin brother, but here she's more like a debutante. She's constantly saying "please" and "thank you". She's more meek than anything else. I was hoping to see some fighting of Lessors side by side with Xhex. That didn't happen. I felt letdown by how Payne's character fizzled into the typical Other Side heroine. Verily, she's no different really from the overly sweet Cormia or subservient Layla. It's another 300-some year old virgin who has never seen a car or colors or any of the things we have in the modern world. Ward did this before so it was boring to read it again in Lover Unleashed.
For those who are Quinn/Blay fans, don't get your hopes up. This book is a repeat of the same. I wish Qhuinn would grow a pair and act on his feelings. Perhaps it's Ward who needs to grow a pair and fully commit to writing a romance between Blay/Quinn instead of teasing readers the way she does with the "will they or won't they get together?"
The Lessors are hardly in this book. Yes! I loved that Ward made the villains vampires from the Old Country. I had always wondered why all the vampires were in the USA. There's a really hot scene between two of the vampire villains and a human female. You have to read it yourself. *fans self* Have some cold water nearby.
If you've stuck with the Black Dagger Brotherhood so far, you'll want to read this book. This is no Lover Awakened or Lover Mine. However, if you haven't read the BDB, this is not the book to start the series for you'll be lost.
Lana C. (syntoria) -
Helpful Score: 1
This is my third disappointment in The BDB Series. Enshrined, LOVER MINE(I paid to have her sign the book), and now Unleashed. JR seems to put more heart into some Brothers and others are rushed and not very well thought out since she is usually "2-3 books ahead."
Making V more "sensitive and caring" really pissed me off...Jane has been "working him out" from the beginning, WTF?? I understand his Fetish, but Jane was down for it--Always! He and Butch have always been close, but that was stepping on Jane's translucent toes..The Penthouse is their place and she has defended it as such. Another way to get through their "Jones" for each other should have been found.
V being V should have kicked Manny's ass for daring to mess with his sister! I can't see it going any other way--a handshake ain't working for me. He is very possessive of people he cares about.
And no Meeting in Wrath's Office about the Human in their midst--in other words "A Gathering of My Brothers"
to talk and discuss--(rib and talk crap about each other) I missed the Voice of all of the Brothers, not a select few chosen to tell the story--"The Family Chiming In."
Q--my friend, what happened to you-- why do you have to lose your piercings and be a Cookie Cutter version like the Glymera?. I realize the part about him "finding himself" but does he have to give up all the sexiness of himelf to be what those people who have shunned him are?
NOT!! Blay loves you regardless.
Most of all for me--How is The Young ...Nalla? I miss you and hope you and Bella are well.
Don't get me wrong, I welcome Manny to the family--but the way it was done--Not TRUE!!
Making V more "sensitive and caring" really pissed me off...Jane has been "working him out" from the beginning, WTF?? I understand his Fetish, but Jane was down for it--Always! He and Butch have always been close, but that was stepping on Jane's translucent toes..The Penthouse is their place and she has defended it as such. Another way to get through their "Jones" for each other should have been found.
V being V should have kicked Manny's ass for daring to mess with his sister! I can't see it going any other way--a handshake ain't working for me. He is very possessive of people he cares about.
And no Meeting in Wrath's Office about the Human in their midst--in other words "A Gathering of My Brothers"
to talk and discuss--(rib and talk crap about each other) I missed the Voice of all of the Brothers, not a select few chosen to tell the story--"The Family Chiming In."
Q--my friend, what happened to you-- why do you have to lose your piercings and be a Cookie Cutter version like the Glymera?. I realize the part about him "finding himself" but does he have to give up all the sexiness of himelf to be what those people who have shunned him are?
NOT!! Blay loves you regardless.
Most of all for me--How is The Young ...Nalla? I miss you and hope you and Bella are well.
Don't get me wrong, I welcome Manny to the family--but the way it was done--Not TRUE!!
Helpful Score: 1
In this installment we find Payne (V's sister) dealing with an injury that is sure to paralyze her. Or can her surgeon (healer) Manuel Manello save her not just physically but emotionally as well.
Throughout this book we find Payne growing with each passing day trying to adapt to her new surrondings and fighting against her injury. We also find her growing increasingly attracted to Dr. Manuel Manello. Manny is found and brought to the Brotherhood home when Payne is brought to the house by Warth after suffering a paralyxing injury during their sparring sessions. Manny is the best surgeon and the only one that might be able to save Payne.
Manuel starts to also grow increasingly attracted to Payne while trying to heal her from her injuries. He can't help but feel this strong connection to her even though he shouldn't. No matter how strong the connection is Manny tries his best to make sure that what he does is just to help her and that he will not become attached. Afterall a 45 year old human male has no right to be with an eternally beautiful female vampire. So his theory is once Payne is truly healed he will leave her world so that she can be with someone that is more of her equal than he is.
We also find V and Jane's marriage struggling as V's past seems to come back to haunt him emotionally with the arrival of his twin sister. V can not see how is relationship with Jane will survive her supposed betrayle and Jane does not think V will ever truly be able to communicate with her. Without communication a marriage can not survive right?
We also get a look into Qhuinn and Blay's current set-up. Qhuinn still in love with Blay but can not handle the feelings he has for Blay or thinks he is good enough for Blay. Yet Blay is moving on and is still with Saxton. Sorry but I hope Qhuinn and Blay do end up together. Blay is perfect for Qhuinn and vice versa. Once is calm and wild. Ying and Yang. Yet JR ward throws us a curve ball with these 2 with Qhuinn's possible glimpse into the future and Blay's gut feeling about Qhuinn/Layla. I hope that is not what truly happens when their story is finished.
Wait it gets better. As a new enemy enters the scene. Xcor and his soldiers. Xcor's main goal is the Wrath's thrown and his the type of enemy that will do anything to get it. I can't wait to read more of this potential conflict.
This book has it all. Drama, Action, and of coarse Steamy scenes. JR Ward does not let me down again with yet another novel from the BDB series. I do hope there is book 9 in the near future. If someone reads this reviews and knows there will be PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE fill me in
Throughout this book we find Payne growing with each passing day trying to adapt to her new surrondings and fighting against her injury. We also find her growing increasingly attracted to Dr. Manuel Manello. Manny is found and brought to the Brotherhood home when Payne is brought to the house by Warth after suffering a paralyxing injury during their sparring sessions. Manny is the best surgeon and the only one that might be able to save Payne.
Manuel starts to also grow increasingly attracted to Payne while trying to heal her from her injuries. He can't help but feel this strong connection to her even though he shouldn't. No matter how strong the connection is Manny tries his best to make sure that what he does is just to help her and that he will not become attached. Afterall a 45 year old human male has no right to be with an eternally beautiful female vampire. So his theory is once Payne is truly healed he will leave her world so that she can be with someone that is more of her equal than he is.
We also find V and Jane's marriage struggling as V's past seems to come back to haunt him emotionally with the arrival of his twin sister. V can not see how is relationship with Jane will survive her supposed betrayle and Jane does not think V will ever truly be able to communicate with her. Without communication a marriage can not survive right?
We also get a look into Qhuinn and Blay's current set-up. Qhuinn still in love with Blay but can not handle the feelings he has for Blay or thinks he is good enough for Blay. Yet Blay is moving on and is still with Saxton. Sorry but I hope Qhuinn and Blay do end up together. Blay is perfect for Qhuinn and vice versa. Once is calm and wild. Ying and Yang. Yet JR ward throws us a curve ball with these 2 with Qhuinn's possible glimpse into the future and Blay's gut feeling about Qhuinn/Layla. I hope that is not what truly happens when their story is finished.
Wait it gets better. As a new enemy enters the scene. Xcor and his soldiers. Xcor's main goal is the Wrath's thrown and his the type of enemy that will do anything to get it. I can't wait to read more of this potential conflict.
This book has it all. Drama, Action, and of coarse Steamy scenes. JR Ward does not let me down again with yet another novel from the BDB series. I do hope there is book 9 in the near future. If someone reads this reviews and knows there will be PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE fill me in
Veronica S. (snowkitty) -
Helpful Score: 1
Couldn't put it down. There was something constantly going on through the whole book, and although I read the hardcover, I finished it in short order. I would like to add that if you're not reading the Fallen Angel series she's writing, you might want to start. The two series maybe meshing together because I read the third Fallen Angel's book, Envy, and the cop in Envy is also in Lover Unleashed. I suspect I was supposed to read Lover Unleashed first.
Heather D. (daylily77) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 236 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Not the best book in the series, but I still enjoyed this addition to the series. I appreciate the fact that Ward is trying to introduce new characters/antagonists to the series, but I could have done without the whole police/ serial killer aspect of things. A little more Manny and Payne would have been nice. I did like the breakthrough on the Vishous/Jane relationship, that was much needed.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
Helpful Score: 1
I so loved this book! I had trouble with both Payne and Manny in the beginning because both were basically unknowns and it took a little while for them to grow on me. I loved the interplay between Manny and V. Manny's internal thoughts are just hysterical and I particularly liked his name for Vishous, "the goateed hater". Too funny!
This book featured V and Jane almost as much as Manny and Payne and poor Quinn, he is surely going through a rough patch. I so want Quinn and Blay to get together and it seems as if it is definitely going to happen. YAY! Most of V's issues were tough to read and I felt bad for Butch but he knew exactly what to do to "cure" V. It was brutal as hell but it worked. V is now a new man and there for his shellan. Excellent, excellent book!
This book featured V and Jane almost as much as Manny and Payne and poor Quinn, he is surely going through a rough patch. I so want Quinn and Blay to get together and it seems as if it is definitely going to happen. YAY! Most of V's issues were tough to read and I felt bad for Butch but he knew exactly what to do to "cure" V. It was brutal as hell but it worked. V is now a new man and there for his shellan. Excellent, excellent book!
Robin M. (robinmy) -
The ninth book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series begins where the last book left off. Vishous' twin sister, Payne, has been brought to the Brothers mansion with a spine injury. V is beside himself because he can't help her, and agrees that Jane should go find her human friend Dr. Manny Manello to look at Payne's injury. When Manny lays his eyes on Payne, he is instantly attracted to her.
As usual with Ward's books, there are several on-going stories being told. This book has Payne & Manny's romance and the hurdles they must overcome. I thought they were well suited for each other and see how Payne will help the brotherhood in the future.
The book touches on Qhuinn and Blay. There is no real progress in this relationship, but we find out Qhuinn's true feelings. A new group of Vampires, led by Xcor, arrive in Caldwell to fight lessers and quickly stir up trouble. Xcor wants revenge on the woman who killed his father. He is also looking to shake up the King with a different political agenda.
But Vishous is the character who steals this book. All is not perfect in V & Jane's relationship. Vishous loves Jane, but he is having major psychological problems with his abusive past and his pain fetish. Jane feels she is losing him and asks Butch to intervene. But no one knows how this will affect Butch.
Overall I loved this book and think this is an excellent addition to the series. I know many people will complain that Manny & Payne weren't front and center in every chapter, but if you're still reading the series at book 9, you know this is not the way these books are written. I like the various story threads in the book, and the fact that some stories (V/Jane/Butch & Qhuinn/Blay) take more than one book to tell. My rating: 5 Stars.
As usual with Ward's books, there are several on-going stories being told. This book has Payne & Manny's romance and the hurdles they must overcome. I thought they were well suited for each other and see how Payne will help the brotherhood in the future.
The book touches on Qhuinn and Blay. There is no real progress in this relationship, but we find out Qhuinn's true feelings. A new group of Vampires, led by Xcor, arrive in Caldwell to fight lessers and quickly stir up trouble. Xcor wants revenge on the woman who killed his father. He is also looking to shake up the King with a different political agenda.
But Vishous is the character who steals this book. All is not perfect in V & Jane's relationship. Vishous loves Jane, but he is having major psychological problems with his abusive past and his pain fetish. Jane feels she is losing him and asks Butch to intervene. But no one knows how this will affect Butch.
Overall I loved this book and think this is an excellent addition to the series. I know many people will complain that Manny & Payne weren't front and center in every chapter, but if you're still reading the series at book 9, you know this is not the way these books are written. I like the various story threads in the book, and the fact that some stories (V/Jane/Butch & Qhuinn/Blay) take more than one book to tell. My rating: 5 Stars.
Alice J. (ASJ) -
I didn't think I would like a story about Payne, but it turned out very good. More story around Qhinn too and brings in Xcor. Ms. Ward does a great job developing the world of Black Dagger Brotherhood. You get to really know the characters and want to know what will happen next.
Bridget C. (tonispinone) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 28 more book reviews
Definitely not my favorite of the series but still enjoyed it. Had some really funny moments, hot sex, and an interesting story with the focus being a female vampire warrior but still it didn't really keep me in the story. It is one of the few Black Dagger Brotherhood books that I haven't re-read. But it is still worth reading.
Joyce A. (jabookreader) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 72 more book reviews
Be ready not to be able to put this book down!
Finally - I was waiting for Dr. Manello to come into the story -!!
Amazingly well written - as usual, I don't know what the readers will do once this series ends! Great job JR WARD!!!!!
Finally - I was waiting for Dr. Manello to come into the story -!!
Amazingly well written - as usual, I don't know what the readers will do once this series ends! Great job JR WARD!!!!!
Susan W. (sulin71) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 5 more book reviews
Payne is a strong female character. If you liked the other Black Dagger Brotherhood books, you will definitely enjoy this one.
Shelley C. (scollins) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 59 more book reviews
The story of Payne, the twin of Vishous is exciting and romantic. Payne who is new to the human realm, the Chosen daughter of the Scribe Virgin has lead a very sheltered life and now in the human realm she is exposed violence, love, betrayal, and seduction.
Laura K. (sonnet) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 26 more book reviews
Every book so far in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series has exceeded my expectations. This latest installment didn't let me down. I love the world that J.R. Ward has created with her brothers. The side stories alone in this book are worth coming back to again and again. Plus this is the first glimpse at Thomas "Veck" delVeccio, who is about to have a starring role in Envy, part of her Fallen Angels series. Gotta say I loved what I saw of him and that little tease is one of the reasons that I have fallen in love with J.R. Ward's writing.
Okay. I think I'm done with this series. I had a few books I absolutely hated then came John's story which hooked me again. Now I'm back to being bored to death with the whining and "poor me" pity parties. I think this series has just gotten to be too much of a soap opera and I feel like slapping most of the characters silly.
Tahnee B. (tahneeb) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 5 more book reviews
Lover Unleashed provides plenty of fodder to provoke emotionally if you are a regular BDB reader. I basically stopped reading this book in public due my excessive reactions and ridiculous facial expressions. That being said, this installment felt weak and mellow compared to previous ones. The beginning was tight, with JR Ward in fighting form but then she lost it and the story got "flabby". The latter part of the book seemed rushed with nodding acknowledgements to what you knew was suppposed to happen and quick resolutions to other story lines. These instances also felt like general narration and Ward's usual depth and passion seemed lacking.
As an example - Payne & Manny's "moment" was like only a page or so. (Remember Zsadist & Bella?) Xcor/Payne situation finally started but was resolved all too briefly.
I kinda had a "WTF" moment during the scene of the "popcorn party" towards the end, like Ward needed something to fill the book. Which was weird since she could have fleshed it out the other two important instances mentioned above (or the serial killer/DelVecchio angle, the massive increase of lessers etc.) this would easily move the arc of the story forward.
I chalked it up to "life with the Brothers", an experience of what life would be like living with them on a daily basis. I'll let it slide.
A few other observations off the top:
Payne - Many seemed to think she was subservient or debtutante like, I did not get that at all. She had the perfect balance of strength while retaining her regal dietific heritage. Not every strong woman need be a ballbuster. But I agree we could have seen her in action a bit more.
Manny - At first hot, then pussified towards the end with his wig out over looking 10 years younger, paranoid of becoming like Benjamin Buttons and whining about his mama. He changes over to the hardcore brother speech, obnoxiously fast once he is in the house. annoying.
The general narration started to bleed over in the brotherhood lingo ie: "He sooo was this, that or whatever - started to make me think JR Ward was getting a bit lazy.
Vishous & Jane take over the majority of the book. Though I love me some Vishous (my favvvvvorite Brother lover), I am always somewhat bored with this pairing, sexually. which leads to...
Vishous & Butch: I should have known...Although V needed a "workout", Ward doesn't blur the lines by taking it any further. ok. I'm happy for the new Mr. Nice V but I like my boy on edge.
As for the spice, the best scene was that hotel scene with Xcor & Throe. Holy Machrus! Just about the only time I have ever fantasized about being a lady of the night. good good good!
Qhuinn & Blay - Where did this story line go? Started then and then literally walked off the pages when Qhuinn jumps on a treadmill for like 230 pages of the book. (wasn't you heart in pieces with that dang vision?? God in Heaven, please no.) And Yes, I do cringe every time Layla comes around.
Overall, Lover Unleashed was still thoroughly enjoyable and I give it four solid stars. JR Ward sets the bar high and my comments are made accordingly. I still LOVE IT!!! Bottom line is there is nothing out there that compares and I will never give up this series.
As an example - Payne & Manny's "moment" was like only a page or so. (Remember Zsadist & Bella?) Xcor/Payne situation finally started but was resolved all too briefly.
I kinda had a "WTF" moment during the scene of the "popcorn party" towards the end, like Ward needed something to fill the book. Which was weird since she could have fleshed it out the other two important instances mentioned above (or the serial killer/DelVecchio angle, the massive increase of lessers etc.) this would easily move the arc of the story forward.
I chalked it up to "life with the Brothers", an experience of what life would be like living with them on a daily basis. I'll let it slide.
A few other observations off the top:
Payne - Many seemed to think she was subservient or debtutante like, I did not get that at all. She had the perfect balance of strength while retaining her regal dietific heritage. Not every strong woman need be a ballbuster. But I agree we could have seen her in action a bit more.
Manny - At first hot, then pussified towards the end with his wig out over looking 10 years younger, paranoid of becoming like Benjamin Buttons and whining about his mama. He changes over to the hardcore brother speech, obnoxiously fast once he is in the house. annoying.
The general narration started to bleed over in the brotherhood lingo ie: "He sooo was this, that or whatever - started to make me think JR Ward was getting a bit lazy.
Vishous & Jane take over the majority of the book. Though I love me some Vishous (my favvvvvorite Brother lover), I am always somewhat bored with this pairing, sexually. which leads to...
Vishous & Butch: I should have known...Although V needed a "workout", Ward doesn't blur the lines by taking it any further. ok. I'm happy for the new Mr. Nice V but I like my boy on edge.
As for the spice, the best scene was that hotel scene with Xcor & Throe. Holy Machrus! Just about the only time I have ever fantasized about being a lady of the night. good good good!
Qhuinn & Blay - Where did this story line go? Started then and then literally walked off the pages when Qhuinn jumps on a treadmill for like 230 pages of the book. (wasn't you heart in pieces with that dang vision?? God in Heaven, please no.) And Yes, I do cringe every time Layla comes around.
Overall, Lover Unleashed was still thoroughly enjoyable and I give it four solid stars. JR Ward sets the bar high and my comments are made accordingly. I still LOVE IT!!! Bottom line is there is nothing out there that compares and I will never give up this series.
Veronda R. (drkcherry) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 2 more book reviews
I really liked this storyline. I also like how Ward introduces new characters and Brothers into the storyline.
I had two issues. The first issue I had with this book is that everyone seemed to talk like the Brothers. They seemed to be using the slang that was previously associated with the Brothers.
Another issue is that the Brothers never seem to get anywhere. Thee is rarely any planning beyong kill and destroy. They are always reacting to a situation. I also don't understand why they fight the lessers. They seem to have no regard for the humans or the glymera (sp). And that being said, why do they allow themselves to be treated like second-class citizens, when they are the ones protecting the glymera (sp)
I had two issues. The first issue I had with this book is that everyone seemed to talk like the Brothers. They seemed to be using the slang that was previously associated with the Brothers.
Another issue is that the Brothers never seem to get anywhere. Thee is rarely any planning beyong kill and destroy. They are always reacting to a situation. I also don't understand why they fight the lessers. They seem to have no regard for the humans or the glymera (sp). And that being said, why do they allow themselves to be treated like second-class citizens, when they are the ones protecting the glymera (sp)
Chelsey W. (cmoonlight) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 47 more book reviews
Phew...glad I got this at the library instead..+
Since brief descriptions of this book have already been done by other reviewers, I won't even include it here.
But I will give my opinion on this book. If you are looking for a solid romance book focusing on one main "couple", this is not it. Anyone who tells you this book was about Payne and Manny is lying. While Manny and Payne did meet and fall in love in this book, their relationship was not the main focus. Honestly, I think the purpose of this book was to introduce new characters into the Black Dagger Brotherhood series like Xcor and his band of Bastards. Another purpose of this book was to further move along the Layla-Quinn-Blaylock love triangle and to get us readers ready for possible menage scenes. While there wasn't any direct interaction between Quinn and Blaylock, there was some growth in Quinn's character. The last storyline in this book was between Butch, Vishous,and Jane. A lot of readers wanted more interaction between Butch and V and I think this book gave the green light for that to happen in the future.
So if you want a solid romance, look elsewhere. Personally, I don't think another book was required for the few things that came out of this book. I probably would have liked it better if more attention and interaction did occur between Manny and Payne.
Since brief descriptions of this book have already been done by other reviewers, I won't even include it here.
But I will give my opinion on this book. If you are looking for a solid romance book focusing on one main "couple", this is not it. Anyone who tells you this book was about Payne and Manny is lying. While Manny and Payne did meet and fall in love in this book, their relationship was not the main focus. Honestly, I think the purpose of this book was to introduce new characters into the Black Dagger Brotherhood series like Xcor and his band of Bastards. Another purpose of this book was to further move along the Layla-Quinn-Blaylock love triangle and to get us readers ready for possible menage scenes. While there wasn't any direct interaction between Quinn and Blaylock, there was some growth in Quinn's character. The last storyline in this book was between Butch, Vishous,and Jane. A lot of readers wanted more interaction between Butch and V and I think this book gave the green light for that to happen in the future.
So if you want a solid romance, look elsewhere. Personally, I don't think another book was required for the few things that came out of this book. I probably would have liked it better if more attention and interaction did occur between Manny and Payne.
I will do my best to summarize this fantastic read without giving away too many spoilers. That being said, this is the ninth book in this series so some spoilers are unavoidable.
In this ninth installment of the Black Dagger Brotherhood we focus on Manny and Paynes relationship. For those that have followed this series, Manny was the doctor that was in love with Jane, Vishous mate. (You can probably already guess some of the problems he will face) Jane brings him into the fold to help heal Payne, who has been paralyzed. At the beginning of this book we are sucked into the pain that Manny has felt over the last year over Janes death. He is wandering aimlessly, working extensively to cover up his hurt. The only thing left from this past is his horse, Glory, who has tragically broken her leg and her future isnt looking so great.
Payne has to come to grips with being paralyzed. As a fighter this is a devastating injury. When she is introduced to her healer (Manny) she feels a mystical pull. Manny feels aggressive and possessive (the same way a Brother feels when he meets his future matehmmmm) Even though there is a very strong attraction between them, Payne knows that she must wipe his memory because he is human and cant be a part of this war.
Also woven in is a whole new aspect to Wards story. Instead of the lessers as the main enemy, Ward has them in the background and brings forth Xcor and his men. Xcor believes he is the son of the Bloodletter (Vishous & Paynes father) and he has vowed vengeance on the woman who killed the Bloodletter (who was Payne). She has also woven other minor characters that I am curious about.
I love this series and was wondering how Ward was going to make it fresh and new. I was not let down. As is typical with her writing, we also have all the side stories going on. I was so scared for Vishous and Jane during this book and Ward really had me guessing on what would happen with them! There was also Quinn and Blays relationship set up in the background. Everything just sucked me in and has left me wanting more and more!
Ward sets up for future books and never lost my interest. She has crafted another fast paced intriguing read! She has outdone herself once again and can only imagine what she has in store for us next! Must read for anyone that loves paranormal romance.
In this ninth installment of the Black Dagger Brotherhood we focus on Manny and Paynes relationship. For those that have followed this series, Manny was the doctor that was in love with Jane, Vishous mate. (You can probably already guess some of the problems he will face) Jane brings him into the fold to help heal Payne, who has been paralyzed. At the beginning of this book we are sucked into the pain that Manny has felt over the last year over Janes death. He is wandering aimlessly, working extensively to cover up his hurt. The only thing left from this past is his horse, Glory, who has tragically broken her leg and her future isnt looking so great.
Payne has to come to grips with being paralyzed. As a fighter this is a devastating injury. When she is introduced to her healer (Manny) she feels a mystical pull. Manny feels aggressive and possessive (the same way a Brother feels when he meets his future matehmmmm) Even though there is a very strong attraction between them, Payne knows that she must wipe his memory because he is human and cant be a part of this war.
Also woven in is a whole new aspect to Wards story. Instead of the lessers as the main enemy, Ward has them in the background and brings forth Xcor and his men. Xcor believes he is the son of the Bloodletter (Vishous & Paynes father) and he has vowed vengeance on the woman who killed the Bloodletter (who was Payne). She has also woven other minor characters that I am curious about.
I love this series and was wondering how Ward was going to make it fresh and new. I was not let down. As is typical with her writing, we also have all the side stories going on. I was so scared for Vishous and Jane during this book and Ward really had me guessing on what would happen with them! There was also Quinn and Blays relationship set up in the background. Everything just sucked me in and has left me wanting more and more!
Ward sets up for future books and never lost my interest. She has crafted another fast paced intriguing read! She has outdone herself once again and can only imagine what she has in store for us next! Must read for anyone that loves paranormal romance.
My absolute favorite of the brotherhood series. Several relationships/issues going on all at once. Didnt want this one to end!
Maria (SassenachD) -
I just finished this book...I do love my Brothers but...I wouldn't say this was bad..I felt...eh...To me, this was a filler book...I wasn't sure whether to call Dr. Phil or Maury and send those two to Caldwell and straighten everyone out. Angela who reviewed the book is dead on! A few ooohs, and ahhhs, fist pumps and WTH's? Sure you gotta read this...or you will probably be lost for the next one.
Alaina H. (laina42107) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 115 more book reviews
The last bk I read was bk 8 of this series about a year and a half ago. This bk sucked me right back into the BDB world. I really enjoyed it and it had some good twists that I never seen coming. I also loved reading about the other characters just as much as I enjoyed Payne and Manny's story. So happy that they continued V and Jane's story.
I was somewhat hesitant to read this book, after reading the story of Vishous, I was so disappointed with his story that I had almost decided not to read anymore of the brotherhoods stories. I'm glad I did decide to go ahead and give the series one more try with Payne's story, being Vishous's twin sister I didn't hold much hope of this story fairing much better than his. I was pleasantly surprised, altho I still think the earlier books in this series held much more appeal than the last three have. Maybe Ms. Ward needs to move onto something else for a bit and then come back to this series when she can add some life back into the series.
Alaina H. (laina42107) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 115 more book reviews
The last bk I read was bk 8 of this series about a year and a half ago. This bk sucked me right back into the BDB world. I really enjoyed it and it had some good twists that I never seen coming. I also loved reading about the other characters just as much as I enjoyed Payne and Manny's story. So happy that they continued V and Jane's story.
Glenna G. (keno) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 869 more book reviews
love it on my kindle too!
Monica G. (champsmom) -
Not my favorite Ward book but great read still. As always a keeper. I think Angela H pretty much sums up all of my feelings about the book.
Joe Z. (zelman) reviewed Lover Unleashed (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 9) on + 215 more book reviews
Not totally just a story about Payne and Manny. You get a whole new chapter about V, Jane and Butch, as well as more info about Qhuinn. Lots going on in this book which seems to be setting up for the next in the series instead of a stand alone. I was much more interested in the other characters than in Payne and Manny.
