A Kiss of Venom
Author: Hailey Edwards
Reviewer: VampBard
Rating: A
What I’m Talking About:
It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the world created by Hailey Edwards in her Araneae Nation series. When I was offered the opportunity to read this novella, I was quite excited to get back to the Araneidae people. I love Lourdes and Rhys, and even catching glimpses of them made my day. I also am quite fond of Henri, as he plays a major role in the fourth novel of the series (actually released before this novella).
Because of Anne Rice and The Vampire Armand (not to mention the contributions of Armand to Interview with a Vampire), I definitely have preconceived notions about every character I meet with that name. Seriously though? Ms. Edwards didn’t disappoint! Appearing to be a playboy, he’s used to having women clamoring to get in his bed. I picture Armand to be beautiful with lavender eyes – so beautiful, it hurts to gaze upon him for too long. How can someone resist his beauty? Nicolette certainly tried.
Nicolette certainly poured on the sexuality! Using her feminine wiles, she was definitely a powerful opponent throughout most of the story. With all the secrets … Well, I think you’ll need to read this tale to understand.
Argh! The plot for this little novella certainly packed a punch. Everything is woven together intricately. The reader is strung along for the journey. The amazing way Ms. Edwards reveals truths. The character’s inner conflict. The external conflict. Attraction, intrigue, deception. This title’s got it all. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot I can say about why I loved this novella without spoiling it for readers.
Whether you’re new to the Araneidae people and the Araneae Nation series, or swore allegiance ages ago, this title could stand alone. But to achieve a greater appreciation, I recommend reading the titles in order. I see how this story fits in before the fourth novel, but reading it after the latest full-length story in the series didn’t diminish my enjoyment whatsoever.
Rating: A Loved It
About the Book:
Betrayed by her lover and exiled from her clan home, Nicolette has carved herself a new identity from the heart of her old life. Hardened by grief and desperate to survive, she hones a new skill set…and the daggers that go along with it.
Armand is heir to the wealthiest clan in the Araneae Nation. His entire life is as mapped as his heritage. Tradition dictates his every decision, and the one choice he ever made for himself cost him the woman he loved.
When Nicolette is offered a contract she can’t refuse, she returns to Erania with deadly intentions. Her secrets are safe behind the façade she created. Or they would be if Armand would stop chipping at the cracks in her veneer.
One kiss ignites an old flame, and suddenly their history is in danger of repeating. Armand falls for Nicolette’s charade, but she can’t let a second chance at happiness distract her from her mission. Someone in the Araneidae nest is marked for death, and Nicolette aims to deliver.
Release Date: January 25, 2014
Publisher: self-published
Series: Araneae Nation #3.5
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author/NetGalley
Purchase Info:
(download for free – limited time)
A Kiss of Venom (Araneae Nation #3.5)
Reviews in the Series:
A Hint of Frost by Hailey Edwards (Araneae Nation #1)
A Feast of Souls by Hailey Edwards (Araneae Nation #2)
A Cast of Shadows by Hailey Edwards (Araneae Nation #2.5)
A Time of Dying by Hailey Edwards (Araneae Nation #3)
A Breath of Winter by Hailey Edwards (Araneae Nation #4)