The Bite Before Christmas

In this book,there are two shorts. The first by Sands is fairly typical of her work. The plot is straightforward and the romance is cute. The second story is worth the price of admission. It's a short in Frost's Night Hintress series. Like the other Bones and Cat stories, it is fast paced, creative, and takes a few unexpected turns. If you have not read this series, this short will have you itching to start at the beginning.

I liked this two story anthology. It was nice seeing how things work out for Teddy since he no longer has Elvi to pine for. Cat and Bones were great as always and we learned something really interesting at the end :). Quick fun read.

The latest story in the Night Huntress series. Great story, and I'm already anticipating the next one! The spin-off series featuring Vlad starts in June. Looking forward to it, but hope it doesn't mark the end of the Night Huntress series.

This rating is just for the Cat and Bones story, since that's the reason I bought this and it's all I read in the book. LOVED it. I really felt for Bones and the family issues he had to deal with in this one. I enjoyed Cat and Ian teaming up to fight the bad guy...I love anything where Ian has a lot of page time.

Ian on bringing new people under his protection: "Because while I don't require morals from members of my line, I do expect loyalty."

That's Ian to a "T" - he might be the fun, or as Cat says, sleazy, guy you can't help but give a hard time too, however, no one can ever doubt his loyalty to his friends.

I started reading the Argeneau story, but didn't go beyond the first couple chapters. I've read a few books in the series, but this one just didn't grab me. The hero is an older man, probably in his 60s or 70s, and the heroine is 25. Eww. Granted, I'm sure something happens where he's turned and goes back to his "prime" age, but I didn't really care to read that far to find out.

But, if you're a fan of the Cat and Bones series, you won't be disappointed with their latest adventure. It comes in at around 150 pages, so it's a "long" short story, and J. Frost really packs a lot into all those pages. Great read.

I am a big Lindsay Sands fan and really enjoyed this short novel. As with all her novels, the characters come to life. This was my first time experiencing the writings of Jeaniene Frost, but it won't be the last. I also enjoyed her novel.

I love Ian and in this short story you get a lot more of him and his shanagans which I loved! You also get to see more of the love between Cat and Bones and how hard they fight for one anotheR. I loved it and had a lot of fun reading this one.

Honestly, I bought this book for Jeaniene Frost's story about Cat and Bones. It was great. Lynsay Sands' story was nice too, but I don't follow those stories so I probably lost a bit of the back story.

I eagerly await each new book from Jeanine Frost, and I am never disapointed. I have a coworker that I have shared this series of books with and she is just as delighted. I can't wait for the next book!!

I'm very fond of the Argeneau Family and naturally I'm all thumbs up for the sheriff to find a mate too, but TOO SHORT for a story and maybe that's why it was not as funny and enjoyable as the books are. For a person keeping up with the serie this is 'must read', but won't be a pleasure for a weekend.

Lynsay Sands left me wanting more, but her Argeneau clan always does. I hope she spins this tale off into its own series. Teddy will make an interesting vampire in his own right.
Otherwise, other tale -- Ms. Frost gave me just enough I will investigate her next book.

I have every book Lynsay Sands has written on the Argeneau series.I was so dissapointed in this edition from Lynsay Sands.I ordered this book thur the store and paid $17.00,thinking it would be a full size book continueing the story of Bitten by Cupid.But this book is only a short story from Lynsay Sands...The 137 pages could just as well had been part of the book Bitten by Cupid.

lynsay sands books r gettin duler by the book. the last couple of her books ive been lookin for justin bicker or another funny character to show up. im trying to b a faithful fan here but lately shes been leaveing much to b desired. its like shes tired of the series. i dnt no imma have to think twice b for buying her books. the characters to me was undevelope. a bear was the only plot. ugggh im tired of reading flops. its authurs like hannah howell keeps me going

The Gift by Lynsay Sands

Teddy Brunswick is snowed in at his holiday rental cabin and things start to appear bleak until he meets his beautiful, and too young for him, neighbor. Katricia Argeneau has lived a long time and is thrilled to finally have found her life mate in Teddy. Now she'll just need to convince the weary Teddy that what's happening between them is real and worth holding on to.

The Gift has a much slower pace compared to the other Argeneau books but it manages to capture everything I like about this series and has a cute story. Teddy is the police chief of the small town of Port Henry, a town that has several immortal (vampire) residents. Instead of feeling like an outcast at some holiday dinner one of his friends will invite him to, Teddy decides to head out of town to a rental cabin. After finding himself snowed in, he meets Katricia and despite feeling guilty for having sexual feelings for a woman who appears to be half his age, he and Katricia hit it off from the start. Katricia knows right away that Teddy is her life mate but needs to take it slow so she doesn't scare him off, which proves to be easier said than done.

I thought Katricia and Teddy made a solid couple and even though their relationship moves quickly, their emotions for each other still felt genuine. I think those who will enjoy The Gift are those who are already fans of the Argeneau series because Teddy is a reoccurring character and one you really want to see get his happily ever after.
My Rating: 3.5 stars

Home For The Holidays by Jeaniene Frost

Vampires Cat and Bones are enjoying a party when it comes to an abrupt end after receiving word of an attack against one their friends. Before their investigation begins, they learn surprising news that quickly turns the powerful pair against each other and threatens their unbreakable relationship.

As usual, Jeaniene Frosts packs a lot of story in just 100+ pages which is why I always look forward to reading her novellas. Home For The Holidays takes place a few weeks after the events in One Grave At A Time. Cat and Bones are celebrating his birthday with a few friends when they receive a phone call of an attack against Annette, friend and Bones' former bed mate. Well, one of them anyways. Before their investigation into the attack really starts, the couple meet another vampire who has an unexpected connection to Bones. It's not long before we learn that the mystery man has an ulterior motive that threatens Bones, Cat and the people they care about.

This was my favorite of the two stories. It was great seeing all my favorite characters again and as you'd expect to find in any Night Huntress story, action and creatures acting up. The best part about this short was Ian. He's in a lot of the scenes and shows, despite having their problems in the past, how much he cares for Bones and the lengths he's willing to go through to help his old friend while still being the sexual deviant we've all come to know and love. I really liked the story and was so interested in it, that I wouldn't have mind it being a full length book.
My Rating: 4 Stars

The Bite Before Christmas is a festive paranormal anthology featuring two fun reads. I enjoyed my previous one experience with Lynsay Sands writing so much that when I saw this book on display at our library, I grabbed it. As a bonus, I received an introduction to Jeaniene Frost’s books too. Even though these novellas are both installments in the authors’ established series, I had absolutely no problem jumping in with these! I never once felt lost. They have ignited my desire to read more from both of these authors soon!

The Gift by Lynsay Sands is a light and sexy romp in the midst of a holiday storm which finds a human and a vampire snowed-in. I liked that the hero is fit, but not so young. He’s sixty four year old and planning to retire soon from a job that he loves as chief of police in a small town. Being single, he’s escaped all the family celebrations to a secluded cabin – but doesn’t plan on finding himself stranded with no provisions and electricity and housebound with a centuries-old vampire whose blood delivery didn’t arrive due to the storm. No worries! All works out well in the end! (116 pages) 4 Wine Glasses!

A few favorite quotes from The Gift:

“She drawled, "I think I'd really like to see that gun of yours later.”
---
“Where did your clothes go?”

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost is an engaging urban fantasy set in the holiday season. There’s some sizzling romantic sparks, too - just enough to spice things up. As the story opens, it’s Bones’ birthday and as part of his surprise, he discovers that he has a long-lost brother. That’s the good news. The bad news is that the brother carries unwanted baggage. This tale will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. (153 pages) 5 Wine Glasses!

A few favorite quotes from Home for the Holidays:

“Get your bloody hands off my wife!”
---
“You call that begging? Oh, Kitten, you can do better than that...”

Both reads are highly entertaining, with great characters and teeming with sweet and intense moments. I read them both in one day – not wanting to put either down until I’d finished. I highly recommend this pairing to anyone who craves a fangy holiday escape anytime of the year!

My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there!

I like Paranormal stories and many of the best of them are Paranormal Romances. I also like Christmas stories. So when I saw a chance to grab this collection at a discount and sample two authors I hadn’t tried before I snatched it up. The first story, The Gift by Lynsay Sands, is the tale of a vampire discovering her “life mate” when she and he are snowed in a couple of days before Christmas. It was interesting to learn how Sands vampires work including their connection to mythical Atlantis but the story itself did not grab my interest. Most paranormal romances I have read have something going on in addition to the romance. In other words, the paranormal aspect is rarely limited to one partner being a vampire. That isn’t the case here and it’s unfortunate, because the reference to vampire law enforcement officers going after rogues suggests that Sands series might be quite interesting, but you can’t tell that from this novella.

Jeanine Frost wrote the second novella, Home for the Holidays. In its favor, the plot revolves around the mystery of figuring out who attacked a vampire and why she won’t tell people the attacker’s identity. There’s some decent action but I really disliked the dialogue and I couldn’t get past it. It made it very hard to like the characters. I don’t want to give away any of Frost’s surprises, but the actual problem her heroes are facing is well crafted, and the solution was certainly interesting. If you like her writing style (and a great many people obviously do), you’ll probably enjoy this story.

Finally, I’d like to point out that this is a Christmas anthology in which Christmas was of no importance whatsoever to either of the stories. I probably wouldn’t have bought the book if I’d know that. But more importantly, it’s my impression that anthologies like this are supposed to introduce series in a way that encourages people to read more of the author’s stories. This book didn’t do that for me, although I thought Frost tried harder than Sands to draw me in.

As I'm just now up to 15.5 in the Argeneau series, this was the one I just read and reviewed this year:
FINALLY! I’ve been waiting for Teddy to have his story for a while now. He’s been ever-present as a background character in the vampire-friendly town, but it seemed unclear if he would find a life mate or if he would just fade away. I was hoping for the life mate story, and wasn’t disappointed by his surprise meeting.

This story was pretty short and sweet, but I had some real trouble seeing old Teddy as the match to Katricia Argeneau. Maybe it’s because I’ve grown so accustomed to the matches being human woman to vampire male (or vampire/vampire). Either way, I’m still happy that we finally get to “keep” Teddy in the Argeneau family for the near future. It was very satisfying.

I read and reviewed the Night Huntress story back in 2015:
It always amazes me how quickly the Night Huntress world can suck me back in. All the characters are so engaging and addictive that I put off reading this short and the following book because I knew they were the last in the series. These characters will be sorely missed.

This story is set during the holidays (obviously) where Cat mistakenly believes she can have a nice “normal” holiday with all of their friends. A surprise visit by someone who claims to be Bones’s long lost brother (who also just happens to be a vampire) sets of a chain of events that almost ends in tons of death and destruction. Cat is one of the few unaffected by the mystery man’s mojo that seems to have wrapped all the incredibly strong vampires around his little pinky. She, Denise, and Ian (the most unlikely ally, always) manage to formulate a plan to get their friends and lovers back and out of harm’s way.

I admit, this story was almost as good as a full length book, with the action at extremes and the risks super high. Ian was a surprise highlight of this story and somehow forced me to begin enjoying his company. Who knew? All in all, this is a must read (especially for further connections?) for all Night Huntress fans.

This review is only for "The Gift" by Lynsay Sands.
I liked this novella better than the last novella we were gifted from Lynsay Sands. We weren't left wondering what the heck, at the end of the story.
Teddy Brunswick is the chief of police in Port Henry. We actually met him in Elvi and Victor's story Accidental Vampire.

Trying to get away from the pity Christmas parties that Teddy feels obligated to go to he takes a vacation to the Willan Sister's cabin. While on this vacation he tries to make life decisions like whether it's time to retire and let someone younger take his position at chief of police.
Katricia Argeneau is getting in the years of an immortals life where they don't want to be around other immortals. Knowing this Marguerite suggest she take a Christmas vacation at Decker's cabin.
Left with provision, heat, and electricity Teddy and Katricia discover their attraction for each other is more than Marguerite's meddling. They are life mates!

I loved that Teddy finally got his story. I was very sad that he never found an immortal that was his life mate.

I have had this book to read for while and thought this would be the perfect book to read over the holiday season. This book contains two very cute holiday novellas. The Argeneau vampires novella was cute and sexy and hopeful; a perfect Christmas story. The Night Huntress novel was a bit more bloody and vicious but I enjoyed it as well.

The first novella is called The Gift and is a novel in the Argeanau vampire series. In this novella when Teddy, a small town cop, gets stranded in a cabin in the woods he encounters the young and beautiful Katricia Argeneau. As they work to survive in the woods without power the two develop a sweet and steamy relationship and discover that both their dreams may have been answered.

The second novella is called Home for the Holidays, this is a Night Huntress novella. Cat and Bones are looking forward to a quiet holiday at home with their friends. That is until Bones’ long last brother shows up and puts Bones and many of his friends under a spell of sorts. Cat is unaffected and is left to figure out how to mitigate this disaster and break the spell. While not quite as sweet and funny as The Gift; this novella was action packed and entertaining.

This was a fun read for the Christmas season. I would recommend if you are fans of either of those paranormal series. I have never read an Argeneau novel before (although I have the first couple in the series sitting on my bookshelf) but this little novella really peaked my interest in that series again.

Even if you aren’t a current reader of either of these series both of these novellas are good samples of the type of story and writing each series is comprised of. So in addition to be a cute and fun holiday read for series fans, this is also a nice sample of the kinds of stories these two authors write. I have already read all of the Night Huntress novels and this Argeneau novella has definitely peaked my interest in that series and made me eager to pick it up.

I'm not going crazy am I? The photos of the "two" authors depict the exact same woman, right?

The photos are not what make me question this conclusion however. It's the fact that I am a BIG Jeaniene Frost fan, but have never like any of Lynsay Sands books. How is that possible if they are the same author? It's true that I listen to books on audio, and the wrong narrator can make a book unlistenable. While Frost has great narrators, Sands readers are not so great -- could that be my problem?

Could someone (or everyone) comment if you know whether or not they are the same person so I can stop wondering?

Thanks!

I loved one story and hated the other.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands:

I give this story 1 star but this is based purely on a matter of preference and not a reflection on the work itself. I had intentionally avoided the Argeneau series after a cursory glance at reviews told me I would find it too tame, bland and boring for my tastes. I prefer morally ambiguous characters with a side of violence, kinky sex and foul language, ergo The Gift most definitely was not something I would gravitate towards. It was however a wonderful story if your thing is sweet and heartwarming with two really nice people finding love and enjoying a dollop of vanilla sex with G rated language.

Not being familiar with the series it did take me a little while to figure out that when one is "turned" one reverts to their "prime" in terms of youth. Therefore I spent at least half the story thinking I stumbled upon an AARP romance (not that there's anything wrong with that); however the "shared sex dream" between Katricia and the 64 year old Teddy was a bit...disconcerting.

I also have to note that the Argeneau vampires don't take their sustenance straight from the tap, they subsist solely on bagged blood. What sort of self respecting vampire would do that? Seems to me that biting people has to be half the fun. These vamps are one step away from sparkling.

Home For the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost:

This is the story I bought the book for and it - 5 star - did not disappoint. When a demon possesses Bones and the rest of his vampy crew; only Cat, Denise and Ian are left unaffected and charged with saving the day. There is lots of thoroughly enjoyable, humorous vintage Ian; his "show and tell" of his strategically placed warding tattoo was classic. Vlad was unavailable to lend assistance this time as he was not answering his cell phone and no doubt was wrapped up in the events of whatever was happening in the Night Prince spin off series. Home For the Holidays seemed to capture some of the "what's going to happen next"? tension that was present in the beginning of the series but that was missing from the last 2 installments, and was lots of fun.

The Bite Before Christmas is an anthology featuring two stories.

"The Gift" by Lynsay Sands (5 stars) Part of the Argeneau Series
This story features Teddy Brunswick {the police chief of Port Henry} and Katricia Argeneau {a rogue hunter.}Teddy decides to getaway to a cabin that Marguerite set up for him, as he does not want to be the charity christmas invite at home. He never thought that he would get snowed in, especially with the beautiful immortal Katricia. She really seems to like him or is it his blood? Is he Katricia's lifemate? You will have to read to find out.

I loved this story! I thought the romance between Teddy and Katricia was sweet. Teddy and Katricia showed up in each others lives when they really needed love. I totally recommend this book to people who love paranormal romances, vampire romances, or readers of the Argeneau Series!

"Home for the Holidays" by Jeaniene Frost - Cat & Bones Series
I have not read any of the books in this series, so I decided to skip reading this until I could read the books that precede this story. I thought that it would make more sense that way, and that I couldn't give it a true review until I read the other books leading up to it.

There's nothing like a Christmas themed book to put me in the holiday spirit and this anthology is no exception. I'm a newcomer to Lynsay Sands' writing but a long-time fan of Jeaniene Frost's so this novel was a nice mix of new and old for me. I wasn't lost by starting at book 15.5 in the Argeneau series but I did find the storyline a little odd. On the other hand, I'm caught up in Frost' Night Huntress series and couldn't help but get a little giddy at the chance to check-in with Cat and Bones again.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands
This is a cute novella that introduced me to a few of the characters in the Argeneau series and also provided me with a bit of background information. Every author has their own take on vampires but I struggled with Sands' version. It's a little "out there". My understanding is that the undead are a result of some weird science project and they need blood to feed their "nanos". Also, they are originally from the lost city of Atlantis. Sounds more like the makings of a sci-fi novel than a paranormal one in my opinion.

I liked how she spun the mate concept. Vampires have soul mates but sometimes it can take them centuries to find theirs. Katricia is ancient and has spent so many years alone that she no longer craves food or sex but all of that changes when she meets Teddy. At first she's reluctant to inform him of the fact that they're mates for fear of him running for the hills. I don't want to go into too much detail because this is only a novella and I don't want to ruin it but a few unexpected things do happen to keep things interesting. It's a Christmas story though, so as expected, everyone lives happily ever after!

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost
Ian fans will love this short story because he gets lots of face-time. He's not on my list of favorite fictional characters but he does have a few personality traits that make his POV a fun read. A new persona is introduced in this novella that had my head buzzing with possibilities. Mainly I started speculating as to how Frost was going to incorporate this tidbit into her series. Things didn't work out as I expected but a brilliant author is always a step ahead of her readers!

As usual, Cat and Bones are spectacular together and I gobbled up the pages faster than I would have liked. The next full length novel isn't due out for a while so I try to savor my time with these two as much as possible. Unfortunately for me, that never works out as planned. I become so engulfed in Jeaniene's awesome world that I end up finishing the book in record time without even realizing it until it's too late. Ooh well, if I become desperate I can always re-read an installment or two! Home for the Holidays is a quick and spicy read that'll put you in the mood for more things than just Christmas (if you get my meaning!).

The two stories in The Bite Before Christmas are festive while managing to maintain their paranormal cores. A great read for those looking to read something holiday-themed without having to go overboard on the Xmas cheer.

* Review based on ebook for different ereader

THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS is a duology by well-known paranormal writers Lynsay Sands and Jeaniene Frost. I got this book right after it came out in 2011, so thought that I had already read it, especially since I've read and enjoyed some of the Argeneau series and most of the Night Huntress one. Rediscovered recently while searching for season-appropriate books, I thought to do a quick re-read of certain parts, only to realize that I never actually read it. *shakes head at self*

*cue drums of doom as TBR pile shifts yet again*

Yeah, I'll admit it... I got completely distracted and ended up reading this before some other "musts".

Lynsay Sands's "The Gift" was a quick read, but at this point, I may be a bit done with the whole "snowbound in a secluded cabin". Also, I think that I felt less connection to the characters because it's been several years since I last read an Argeneau book. Even though I didn't find "The Gift" particularly striking, it did re-ignite my desire to revisit the Argeneau series and catch up on the books already in my library.

I found Jeaniene Frost's "Home for the Holidays" more satisfying, probably because it's been over a year since the last Night Huntress book and #7 still has a TBA date. Cat and Bones were fine, but as usual, I was entertained more by my love/hate reaction to Annette and Ian.

Overall, both are solid stories and good companion novellas to their respective series. THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS is a must for fans of Lynsay Sands and/or Jeaniene Frost.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS # 6.5

I am working my way through The Night Huntress novellas and outtakes, my little fixes before I get another book in the series to read.

Bones and Cat are that addictive!!

I loved this 153 page read. I could quite easily have seen this story as a full blown book.

A relative comes to visit and all is a bit squiffy. Ian is absolutely t-shirt worthy in this novella. Ian has slowly been creeping into my t-shirt hemisphere. He is so blunt and honest about how he feels about a situation. He is a real keeper..... such a smart pants, I have a big crush on him.

This is the second time Jeaniene has paired Ian and Cat up in a humorous and this time, a little lusty , scene. All in the name of good, although I can't help thinking Ian is enjoying himself a little too much.

This novella mixes, demons, lust, love, a birthday party, of course the uber smexi moments between Bones and Cat * fans one self* and a little mystery/puzzle that needs to be solved to save the ones they love.

The next spinoff is `Night Prince # 1' , Vlad and Leila's story, titled `Once Burned' , due for release 26th June 2012. Vlad is a fave of mine, so I am looking forward to his book.

FAVE QUOTES:

He unzipped his pants and tugged them down. I whirled just in time, barking, " I don't care what you think, your junk does not have special abilities. And I already heard about the piercing," over my shoulder.

" That's not what I wanted to show you," he replied in an implacable voice. "Now stop being a twit and look."

"This better not be one of your sick jokes," I muttered, turning around. Thankfully , the first thing I saw wasn't Ian waggling Mr One Eye at me, though he didn't seem concerned that his hand didn't totally conceal the flesh behind it.

"Wow," I whispered.

He grunted. "If I had a pound for every time a girl said that while in your position."

HA!

Michelle

Two novelettes in one book. They are both delightful. They are a good Christmas romance read.

They also have two completely diverse canons - or rules of how the `vampire universe' works. In the first novel, the vampires are sanitized and don't drink `from the hoof' preferring bagged blood.

In the second novel, a short from the Night Huntress/Reaper series, the vampires are properly running around mesmerizing people, fighting, killing, and doing the time honored `stickin' their fangs into necks. Ahem.

1) The Gift by Lunsay Sands
A short about an ancient female vamp stranded in a blizzard. In the cabin next door is the almost-retired age police chief. The vamp immediately recognizes the human as her perfect `mate'. The novel takes place while they are stranded and in the getting to know you stage. It is quiet and interesting, but IMO the vamps were too sanitized and civilized. Not enough traditional drama/violence associated with vampires.

I did love the part where the senior citizen got his new fresh young vampire body (oh, come on like you didn't see that one coming - how is that a spoiler?). He really enjoyed taking it out and playing with it and with his new love.

2) Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost
A short where the unlikely trio of Cat, Denise, and Ian combine to save their powerful spouses and friends from a deadly demon masquerading as a trusted inner circle ally. This is a complicated story but it if you're a Reaper fan, this one is a home run.

PLUSES: Bones and his wife Cat battle!! Yow!!
You find out exactly where Ian's loyalties lie, and you get a glimpse into the private home/holiday celebration of the most powerful vamps on the planet.
This is also a first class story that is a snapshot into the lives of the main characters in the Frost Canon.

Frost delivers a lot of story for your buck. I recommend you go back and read all of her novels from start to the latest. You'll be glad you discovered this fresh funny author.

Two books by two of my favorite authors. I love the stories of the Argeneau family of immortals and this one although Short was just as good as all the rest.
The story of Bones and his friends for the holidays was also quite good as Bones discovers he has a half brother and they have the same name! This one was quite interesting with some unusual happenings. Quite a few twists in this story that will keep you reading well into the night! I very much enjoyed it.

I'm still excited about this book even after reading it. I was unfamiliar with Sands work but heard good things about what she writes. I was not disappointed either. Her story was cleverly crafted and the characters were believable. Just putting Sands work with my favorite author Frost. You've got one killer combo for a book in a Christmas setting. This book will definitely be one that I'll return to again and again. Here are the highlights of each story:

The Gift
Teddy Brunswick is a police chief in his hometown of Port Henry that didn't want to spend another Christmas being a charity case. So he rented a cottage to getaway from everything. When he wakes up to a freezing cottage decides to investigate the problem. He discovers a downed powerlines is the cause. Teddy meets Katricia Argeneau he's surprised by her beauty and feels drawn to her. Katricia upon meeting Teddy can't read his mind like she can with others. She thinks Teddy might be her lifemate. Can they weather the storm together? Will Teddy admit his attraction to Katricia? Is Teddy really Katricia's lifemate.

Home for the Holidays
Cat is trying to surprise Bones which is difficult because he always seems to know what she's up to. Cat invited Bones closest friends for his surprise birthday party. When Ian calls Bones to tell him that someone attacked Annette. Bones is furious and demands answers from Annette but she's not talking. When a strange vampire announces that he's Bones long lost brother everyone is wary of this being true. Yet when Wraith does nothing but talk about himself Cat realizes something is off. Bones and company except Ian and Denise are acting strange. What is really going on? Why aren't Ian, Denise, and Cat affected? Will this be a happy holiday?

Vampires. Lots of vampires. And snow.

The Gift: My first foray in the Argeneau world (I have several of the earlier books, I just haven't read them yet) and I must say I liked what I saw. Katricia has a strong suspicion as to what Teddy is to her the first time she lays eyes on him, it's just a matter of convincing him. Being snowed in gives her to perfect opportunity to let him get to know her.

Fun and now I want to pick up those earlier books and get to reading them.

Home for the Holidays: Good gravy! I had forgotten how much I adore Cat and Bones. It's been a while since I played in their sandbox and THOSE TWO. I can't lie, I have the biggest soft spot for Ian, too. He's a slutty man-whore but he's so UPFRONT about it. This is me. Take it or take it. Love it! (also, guys with piercings... yum!)

I was very impressed with how much story was packed into this novella. Cat, Bones, some long buried secrets, and a couple of twists you won't see coming. You know what they say, you can't keep a good vampire down. I don't know how that relates to this story but... umm, yeah. GO, CAT AND BONES!

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

"The Bite Before Christmas" includes 2 novellas by fan favorites Jeaniene Frost and Lynsay Sands. The plots continue the series for which both writers are renowned.
Cat and Bones are the usual hoot. I still think it is amazing that Ms. Frost keeps her readers interested in the couple. Each entry in the series shows how the different facets of these complex characters mesh as they actually grow in their relationship. Who would have thought that was possible in a paranormal romance?
I have waited to read Teddy's story from Ms. Sands with trepidation as the last several entries in the Argeneau series have had a very "been there...done that" feel. This story was a much hoped for return to the heart of the series. Katricia and Teddy make a great couple but I felt short changed as the novella was not the right format for a story that had so many threads too neatly sewn together. The age thing (Teddy is at least 70 at the beginning of the story) alone needs a least 25 more pages. Katricia also needed quite a few more pages to explore the near "rogue" personality she supposedly was developing that lasted all of 1 page in the novella. I was left feeling like Oliver Twist asking for MORE PLEASE!
As a fan of both series, I was happy to see new stories. I must say that the Cat and Bones novella was probably the stronger of the two simply because it builds on a relationship already fleshed out in other books. Sands' entry needed more back story and depth in comparison. Also, the two books may be about vampires but they don't share quite the same mindset. Bones is a lot more edgy than the more cuddly Teddy. I love both series but didn't like the emotional shift between the two stories in 1 book. I wouldn't recommend reading both in one sitting.

"The Gift by Lynsay Sands"
Argeneau Series, Book 15.5

A vacation in the mountains is just what Chief of Police Teddy Brunswick needs. He never expected to get snowed in or find a stunning woman to keep him company. He may be sixty four but he knows a good woman when he sees one. If he was a young buck he would be putting the moves on the sexy siren. Katricia Argeneau is shocked to find her mate while snowed in. Now she has to figure out how to tell him about her immortality and that he is her mate.

"The Gift" is a beautiful tale of undying love. Teddy is truly adorable. I just love how he can't believe the gorgeous Katricia is hitting on him. What I love about this holiday story is it proves you are never too old to fall in love and the best things happen when you least expect it.

"Home for the Holidays" by Jeaniene Frost
Night Huntress Series, Book 6.5

Cat has a surprise party planned for her beloved Bones but things quickly go awry when a member of Bones' line is attacked and Wraith, a new vampire shows up claiming to be Bones long lost brother. For some reason the usually skeptical Bones is pretty accepting of the new arrival. It's strange that Cat, Ian and Denise are the only ones not totally buying the stuff Wraith is spewing. Something demonic is afoot and this time Cat and Ian must join forces to save their friends and family. Can they save Bones before it's too late?

The shocks keep coming in "Home for the Holidays." Jeaniene Frost has outdone herself with this action-packed novella. "Home for the Holidays" keeps you on the edge of your seat while giving you a chance to enjoy all your favorite Night Huntress characters. I am so excited to get such a tasty chunk of Ian time. I love his sarcastic and naughty humor. Ian and Cat always play off each other really well and it is no different in "Home for the Holidays." Bones and Cat are separated by evil in "Home for the Holidays" but they still manage to show us why they are one of paranormal romances hottest couples.

The Bite Before Christmas is one of the most passionate anthologies I've read all year. The couples that Lynsay Sands and Jeaniene Frost have brought us are one of a kind and irresistible! These fabulous authors give us bloody good vampires, lust filled scenes and stand-out stories in The Bite Before Christmas.

Miranda
For joyfully Reviewed

This rating is just for the Cat and Bones story!

Lucifer's Bouncing Balls!! Everyone who knows me also knows that I'm sucker for Cat & Bones stories. Yes I have favorite books and less favorite in the series, but no matter what, I'll probably end up loving it - except if one of them dies... forever. -
I'm not a big fan of short novels. I would have been a complete idiot, if I don't read this!!! Maybe we, Frost fans, can skip the prequel with Bones, and the story about a wedding - which are probably not less exciting, than her other books - if we can't get them, BUT THIS IS A MUST READ!! I swear I liked this "short" story better than One Grave at a Time!! Jeaniene's short Christmas story with Cat & Bones is filled with HUGE, Interesting twists and turns, and all of them are related to Bones' family line... And the final twist was totally not expected (if you expected that, than please tell me and I'll call you GOD!!... or I will just incriminate you with that you have some serious connection with Ms.Frost.)

What can you expect?? For Ian fans: he has a larger role play in this story, than he ever had in any NHS book!!! And He's as snarky as always has been and it's funny as hell!! he's definitely got his hooks in me. AND "he has something in his pants that Cat never expected..." Neither did I !! And at the end... my God... at the end there's a huge... i said, HUGE twist, that will shake his and Bones' life the most, but basically everyone's who's related to them somehow.
For Cat fans: she's as amazing as always. She shows us again, that she would do ANYTHING for her lover, Bones. She would Die for him. She's less sarcastic and funny, more smart, advised, than ever. Which is perfectly fits to the plot, because I think I could'nt be sarcastic and funny in a situation, than she's been here.
For Bones fans: We get to know lot of facts about his past, his family, thanks to the Birthday gift that Anette gives him. The gift is a living... - well, sort of - being and it's sooo much Bones, but still different. I think, this is the hardest fight he ever fought. I honestly don't know, how will Jeaniene overwhelm this drama in her next books in the Series without killing someone - and that's not gonna happen -. Bones' world gonna turn upside down And his life becomes the worst nightmare he could ever dream.
For demon fans: YES!! I'm happy to tell you, that basically the whole story related to the demons.

There's a lot of romantic act and sentences. As we could expect, this story is not filled with erotic scenes, like the previous NHS books, there's maybe two short scenes. But the romance between them is again breathtaking. This is their worst battle yet.

This was a fun combination of stories from authors Lynsay Sands and Jeaniene Frost.

Both stories we fun. I am not much for Holiday themed books, but there was a lot more to both of these stories.

Lynsay Sands- Argeneau 15.5

I haven't read any of the other books in this series. This was my introduction to Lynsay's work. The story was short so thing prgressed very quickly. I dont know how believable it was because of that. Both characters seemed to be depressed with their everyday lives and meeting each other brought back a spark in each of them. The passion isn't too far behind. I would read more from Lynsay after reading this.

Jeaniene Frost- Night Huntress 6.5

I always love a story that includes Cat and Bones. I have fallen in love with these characters as well as thier friends. This was a fun look into Bones' past. A little bit of a twist there at the end. I enjoyed this story.

Overall I give it a three start rating

I wanted to like this book, but after reading just a few pages the story sounded quite familiar, and IT WAS! A couple months previously I read Nocturne by Syrie James, this book more or less copied the story line of that book quite a bit.

This book Set in Colorado in Winter, female vamp, male love interest, bear attacks love interest.

In the Syrie James book, Set in Colorado in Winter, Male Vamp, female love interest, Cougar Attack

Looking at publication dates, Id say this book copied other. I prefered the Syrie James book much more

The Gift (Argeneau 15.5) by Lynsay Sands - 4 stars
I was so happy to see that this short story was about Teddy, the chief of police of Port Henry. I love Teddy's charachter in all the stories we've seen him in and was hoping he would also find a lifemate amongst the immortals.

Again Marguerite Argeneau has had one of her hunches that Teddy and Tricia (Marguerite's niece from New York and also a rogue enforcer) might be lifemates and schemes to get them to meet.

I just wish this story had been a full lenght novel because it was a bit rushed at certain points so that's why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.

Home for the Holidays (Night Huntress 6.5) by Jeaniene Frost - 5 stars
I loved this Cat & Bones short story. I expected a cozy christmas story but if course it's Cat & Bones we're talking about, something had to go wrong, or had to get into trouble... and when an unexpected guest arrives it does go horribly wrong. What should have been a nice family get toghether turns into a nightmare that puts everyone in danger.

This review is only for the Jeaniene Frost story - Home for the Holidays

Another very enjoyable Cat and Bones story from Jeaniene Frost. It's actually pretty lengthy for a short story and all the usual suspects are there apart from Vlad who 'isn't taking calls' and isn't actually even mentioned by name.

The story unfolds around Cat's surprise birthday party for Bones and Annette has a very big surprise as a gift. We find out a little bit more about Bones' past and, due to circumstances, we see a very unlikely alliance between Ian and Cat - we even get to see them making out much to Bones' fury. Don't worry - all is really not as it seems. We also get some steam between Cat and Bones.

It's a great little story but, with no Cat and Bones novels in the pipeline that I know of, there's going to be a Bones shaped hole in my life. I shall have to content myself with Vlad's series starting early next year. Vlad, who I now think looks like Aragorn thanks to the little taster at the end of this novella.

"The Bite Before Christmas" features two novellas- one by Lynsay Sand and a novella from The Night Huntress series called Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost. I only read Home for the Holidays... just had to get my Bones fix!

For Bones' birthday, Cat has decided to invite their close friends for a surprise birthday party and to stay for the holidays. As usual, throuble soon follows. They find out Annette, who has flown in for Bones' party, is missing. Ian finds her and a room full of her splattered blood. There's not a whole lot else to say about this book without giving the story away. I definitely enjoyed the book but it was kind of on par with the last Night Huntress book for me... good but not great. I did really enjoy getting some more of Ian. He was a big part of this book. Found out some interesting info about him at the end :) Plus, we got a look at the beginning of his book- The Night Prince series. I'm really looking forward to that series. I love Bones but Ian's been right up there too. I just love his sense of humor and even though he seems like a bad guy he always comes through for Cat and Bones.

[...]

I love both of these authors actually, so there was no doubt that I would be reading this book! I got it on my kindle through Overdrive (the library app) because I was being cheap, but I would definitely purchase it normally. Neither story is incredibly long, but they aren't overly short like most anthologies since there are only 2 stories. They don't harp on it being a Christmas theme either, the stories just so happen to take place at Christmas time. If you have read Lynsay Sands before, you already know what the overall story line is for her story (lifemates and all that) but Jeaniene Frost take this as a chance to develop some more history for Bones which is much appreciated since the series is over. Both are good stories, and if you like the authors or like the genre, you won't be disappointed.

Neither of these stories have anything to do with Christmas. Just take place in the holiday season.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands was just offal. It had potential but was just crude and all about sex. I did not get through it. Definitely not worth reading.

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost however was much better. I actually enjoyed it. It is the first I have read from this author so I did not know the characters but the story stood well on its own. I now have a desire to read previous stories to get some more background on them. This story was a typical paranormal bad guys try and take over good guys. Only some of the good guys are not affected and have to fight for all.

There is a lot of language in it and a sex scene between a married couple.

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost:
This is the first time I have read something by this author, story was well written. Lots and lots going on and lots of action. Although, if this story is part of a series I did not know the background on the characters. I was not lost though.
One quick, nondescript sex scene. This story has not just vamps but ghosts and demons too.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands
Another great story by Ms. Sands! I loved finally getting Teddy's story. Katricia was a new character, very straight forward and bubbly.
Cute and fun interactions between the couple and Ms. Sands does not disappoint when it comes to sex scenes in this novella.

I love anything that Jeaniene Frost writes that involves Cat and Bones. I actually listened to this book on audible.com and just love the narration by Tavia Gilbert. The only problem I had with the Jeaniene Frost part of this book was that it was over too soon. :-) Now as for the other part of the book by Lynsay Sands...narration was not great, but not the worst I have ever listened to either. The story was a little on the creepy side for my taste and seemed like the writing was a tad juvenile. Again, not the worst story, but surely not great either. Overall, I would recommend Jeaniene Frost's part of the book. If you are fans of Cat and Bones you will enjoy it. The other story in the book just wasn't for me.

I will be honest I only read Jeaniene Frosts story and oh I LOVED it!! This was a perfect way to get my Night Huntress fix, especially after the last book. And have I mentioned IAN! Yes we get so so so much Ian time. Ian is my favorite and this book totally spotlighted my sarcastic vampire. If I wasn't already in love with him, I totally would be now.

I guess I should mention Cat and Bones are also around in fact almost everyone we care for in the series is there. Mencheres, Kira, Spade, Denise, Fabian, Annette, IAN and oh a newbie.. Cat and Bones have more sex time in this novella then they did in their last book, so YAY! Also there is something going on that can tear them apart. Its really sad. Something happens to Bones and some of the other vamps and Bones actually almost kills Cat. Ian is one of the few who are not affected and together him and Cat join forces to help everyone.

We get a lot of surprises. Of coarse everything isn't as it would seem and there were some shocking new discoveries. We also learn more about Bones past and some of Ian's. Did I mention a scene were Cat actually drinks from Ian?? You might want to check that out. Even Cat says after Ian's actions in this book she will take back every bad thing she has ever said about him. He just shines in this book without losing any of his crazy ass like ways!

Great Book!! I loved this novella more then the last book. Definitely something for Night Huntress fans to read.
\

see more reviews @ [...]

The Bite Before Christmas features The Gift by Lynsay Sands set in her Argeneau world and Home For the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost, a Night Huntress story.

The Gift by Lynsay Sands

Two days before Christmas, Teddy Brunswick finds himself in a cottage, away from his home town of Port Henry where he is a police chief because he has no family to spend the holidays with. But it has snowed a lot and his cabin has lost power. He also doesn't have much food stocked up, but after looking at the snow covered roads, he is not sure when he will be able to make it to a store. Luckily, he meets the person staying at the neighboring cabin, Katricia Argeneau. Katricia has food, but no heat. Since Teddy has a fireplace in his cabin, they decide, Katricia will bring food over to his place, and they can stay warm by the fire.

What Teddy doesn't realize is that Katricia is a vampire, who has just realized much to her surprise she has found her life mate.

I was very disappointed in The Gift. I will say, this is the first I've read of Lynsay Sands so I am not familiar with her Argeneau world. But this one reads very well as a stand alone. I understand the world, or at least the small glimpse we see in this book. Basically this book is Katricia meets Teddy and realizes she can't read his mind, which is a big signal that he might be her life mate. Teddy knows the existence of vampires, so her coming clean with who she is is not a big shock to him. I kept waiting and waiting for something to happen. Something, anything! But these two just hang out in the cabin. To me, they don't have a spark of attraction between them at all. Their chemistry totally falls flat. It is very much a case of telling us, rather than showing us:

***
The woman was just...Well, she was sassy as hell, smart as a whip, and had a killer sense of humor. He'd laughed more today during their snowball fight, card games, and talks than he'd laughed with any woman ever.
***

Really? Because we never see this fun, crazy side to these two characters.

And then when the big moment comes where Katricia admits to Teddy he is her life mate, it is very anti-climatic. All in all, a disappointing read.

Rating: 2/5

Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost

It's Bones's birthday, and to surprise him, Cat has invited their close friends and family to their home for a party and to stick around for the holidays. Cat wants to have an old-fashioned Christmas. But trouble never stays away long from these two. As Bones opens his presents, they realize Annette, who has flown in from London is not present at the party. Ian offers to go back to the hotel to see what is holding her up, and what he finds isn't good. There is blood all over the hotel room, and Annette is all out of sorts - definitely acting strange. She also refuses to give up the name of the person that hurt her. Frustrated, they take her back to their home, where they have another surprise. But I'm not going to tell you who or what because that will ruin the surprise for you!

I enjoyed this short story - we meet a new character, like I just said, I'm not going to tell you who, but this person holds many secrets about Bones. And, as a result, we learn a lot about Bones's past. I was actually surprised by the depth of what we learn, especially something at the end of this story.

In true Night Huntress fashion, there is a big conflict with lots of violence, one liners from Cat, and the very sexy (and I admit sleazy) Ian has lots of page time. And to pique your curiosity even more, at one point Ian says this to Cat:

***
"That's right, you nasty little vixen, bite me harder." Ian urged.
***

Oh yes - there are some crazy things that happen in this book - but it all works out in the end. Fans of this series are going to want to read this one for some details we learn about Bones.

Rating: 4/5

Overall rating: 3/5

"The Gift" by Lynsay Sands. Port Henry Police Chef Teddy Brunswick is snowed in without electricity at Marguerite Argeneau's isolated Colorado cabin. He cannot escape as downed trees block the road and his truck is frozen. Next door is Katricia Argeneau who tells him she has food while he has a fire in the fireplace. Tricia is excited as she cannot read her fellow stranded traveler, which means that Marguerite is probably right that the man who looks like her grandfather is her life mate. She tells him she is in law enforcement as a Council Enforcer in New York and that Marguerite is her aunt; he knows what she is but is unsure what he is to her.

"Home for the Holidays" by Jeaniene Frost. Cat arranges a surprise birthday party for her beloved husband Bones the vampire. Fabian the ghost, Spade, Ian, Mancheres, Denise and Kira arrive, but Annette fails to show up. Ian goes to see why. Blood is everywhere and Annette looks like she was tortured but refuses to say by who in spite of her sire Bones demanding she does. Bones catches a vampire in the woods; he says he is his half-brother Wraith. Ian distrusts Wraith while Cat has doubts too. After a few hours, Cat decides to kill Wraith in order to save her beloved who acts as if he is entranced. She obtains help from Ian and Denise, also affected by Wraith.

With strong casts, these are two thrilling vampire romances that are part of each author's respective series (Lynsay Sands' Argeneau saga and Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress saga).

Harriet Klausner

I read this book so many years ago. I love both the Lynsay Sands Argeneau series of vampire books and Jeaniene Frost's Cat and Bones series. So when this book with stories from them came out, I had to jump on it and had to have it in my keeper collection. Both these authors books are keepers for me and I have read the spinoffs from the series also.

Linsay really knows how to suck me into her story. I love how she humanized her vamps and gives them real struggles with the right amount of humor to make the plot very believable. She also puts the sex in sexy but does it in such a way that it captivates instead of repulse me. Truly the only thing I find distasteful is the foul language.

An anthology of two stories about vampires and Christmas.

Series:
The Gift (Argeneau, 15.5)
Home for the Holidays (Night Huntress, 6.5)

The Stories
Lynsay Sands' Gift is a cute story of two individuals, Teddy Brunswick and Katricia Argeneau, escaping the pity of family and friends at Christmas and just happening to rent cottages side by side. It takes a blizzard snowing them in without electricity or food to push Katricia and Ted outside their comfort zones and into each others' arms.

Jeaniene Frost's Home for the Holidays is much more desperate with Cat, Ian, and Dierdre forced to bargain with a demon to save the friends who have gathered to celebrate Bones' birthday. Family. It's not all it's cracked up to be.

The Cover
The cover is a peaceful snowy landscape...with tombstones and a circular peekaboo window as Bones holds Cat closely to him looking up at us tauntingly, gathering her long blonde hair to one side just as he is about to nuzzle her neck.

The title is all about vampire holidays with The Bite Before Christmas.

I pick compilation books when they include authors I already like in the hopes I will find other authors I might like. I already like the Cat & Bones series and the included story delivered! However after enduring "The Gift" I would have to be paid to read any other works by Lynsay Sands.

The Bite Before Christmas, yes the name sounds familiar but this time it is two stories, The Gift written by Lynsay Sands, and Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene Frost. I will review each of these stories separately to be fair and because there is no link between the two stories, other than, they are about vampires, and the events happen during the holidays.

The first story The Gift is a good story but I feel it would have been better with some additional story editing on the setting, plot, and mythology of this story.

Opening Scene: 12/15 points

1) Does the opening pull you into the story?
The beginning does not have a huge hook, but introduces the Hero and places him in a situation where his power is out and his phone is dead, slowly rolling the plot forward to the meeting with the Heroine.

2) Is the opening bogged down with back story?
It is not bogged down with too much back story but does feel slow.

3) Does the first scene prompt you to read more?
The first scene kept my interest, but made me wonder where it was going. I was waiting for the stakes to raise.

4) Do you have a sense of time and place?
The time and place felt right.

Plot: 5/15 points

5) Is the plot fresh and appealing even if it contains familiar romantic ingredients?
A human and vampire brought together by a vampire matchmaker. That sounds familiar. It sounds like a story from the other book with the same name. To be fair, it's not unusual for a writer to be asked to do a story for an anthology based on a theme, and then the anthology falls through so the writers submit the stories to their publishers and suddenly there is a bunch of Vampire Matchmaker stories on the market. I'm not sure if this is the case.

One more plot point bashed me in the head while reading the story. The "soul mates whose mind can't be read" has been done in the Twilight series and the Sookie Stackhouse series, as this story is copyrighted in 2011, I'm going to use a word I don't like to use, cliché. The story would have been better without this detail.

6) Is the story problem evident?
The story problem is the hero not freezing or starving to death before the road is cleared.

7) Can you see an initial hint of external conflict in these first pages?
There is a hint of problems, but they don't escalate much.

8) Is the pacing effective?
It's slow.

9) Are transitions smooth an easy-to-follow?
The dreaming and the real world are muddled towards the end.

10) Does the chapter end so you would want to turn the page?
The hooks were light, and the conflicts were small.

Narrative/Dialogue: 10/20 points

11) Is the narrative compelling with vivid descriptions and pertinent details?
The dialogue worked, and both characters had different voices.

12) Are the five senses used to enhance the setting/emotions of the characters?
I think she made good use of the senses.

13) Is the setting recognizable?
The setting was recognizable because it had been done before. The vampire being part of normal society is too close to Sookie Stackhouse's setting.

14) Is the narrative intrusive?
The narrative was fine, but the story needs tuning.

15) Are narrative and dialogue balanced?
They are fairly balanced.

16) Is the dialogue natural for the character?
The dialogue worked for the characters.

17) Does each character have a distinctive voice?
Yes, they do.

18) Does the dialogue move the story forward or is it used as a back story/information dump?
The dialogue did not really move the story forward the actions did. The info dumps were mainly in the narrative and interior monologue.

19) Is action interspersed with dialogue so that characters aren't "talking heads"?
Not quite talking heads but the actions were mostly mundane.

Writing Technique: 10/20 points

20) Is the book presented professionally with few typos and generally accepted punctuation?
There are no typos or punctuation errors that I noticed.

21) Does the author have a unique voice that makes this book stand out?
You know this got me. I read the back, it had some blurbs about comedy, and humor but this story was not a romantic comedy.

22) Is the writing easy-to-read with varied sentence length and structure?
It was okay.

23) Is action shown, not told?
There was a fair amount of exposition that could have been cut.

24) Is the point of view handled appropriately?
It was consistent.

25) Are transitions of time and setting logical and smooth?
They were okay.

Characterization: 5/15 points

26) Are the hero/heroine introduced in a timely manner or their meeting foreshadowed?
Yes, but it was the morning when they met, a bad time for vampires.

27) Are the characters well developed with believable strengths and flaws?
The characters were fine, but the whole vampires have Atlantian nanites and can walk around in the daylight needs to be dropped. I know what vampires are and I don't buy the whole Atlantian thing.

28) Is the relationship between the hero/heroine emotional as well as physical?
It is hard to tell. The dream sequences interfere with the growth arc. Their dreams should be toned down, and their actions should be escalated.

29) Do you believe these characters will achieve happily-ever-after?
It was predictable. It could have used more physical uncertainty and less dreamy reverie.

30) Are the secondary characters appropriate to the story?
They weren't a factor.

31) Are the heroine's goals/conflicts identifiable?
They were solid.

32) Does her motivation make her actions believable?
She was single minded in purpose.

33) Are the hero's goals/conflicts identifiable?
To a degree, they were very basic goals.

34) Does his motivation make his actions believable?
He was simple.

Romance: 12/15 points

35) Are the romance elements present?
They were there but could have been leaner.

36) Is the romance elements woven into the story appropriately?
They were a bit bogged down and could have used more layers.

37) Is the romance element integral to the story?
Yep.

So for The Gift I give a total of: 54% or 2.7 stars.

In my opinion, the story would have been better in a longer form. Giving the characters, setting, and plot more time to develop. The Atlantian nanites really popped me out of the story. However, my suggestions for this as a short story would be to cut away the extraneous detail and tell us about a starving vampire and a human stuck in a blizzard and finding true love. Thus, focusing on the characters, allowing the reader to bring the mythology to the story, and leave the nanotechnology in science fiction.
____________________________________________________________________

Home for the Holidays, was a very good story about some very developed characters. However, it is not a standalone story. There is a lot of reference to the author's previous work. So it's like walking into the middle of a conversation. It works well for Jeaniene Frost's readers but as a new readers being exposed to her work for the first time, I was a bit put off. In my opinion, this should have been a novel unto it's self or a fan freebie posted on the author's web site for Christmas. It shouldn't have been slapped together with another author's work and published.

Opening Scene: 13/15 points

1) Does the opening pull you into the story?
The surprise party was a great start.

2) Is the opening bogged down with back story?
It was not bogged down at all. There was not enough explanation for new readers.

3) Does the first scene prompt you to read more?
It got my attention.

4) Do you have a sense of time and place?
I was fine with it.

Plot: 13/15 points

5) Is the plot fresh and appealing even if it contains familiar romantic ingredients?
I liked the whole supernatural family, but I did not feel that romance was the main plot.

6) Is the story problem evident?
There were a lot of twists, turns, and obfuscations, so it was not always apparent who the problem was, only that there was a threat.

7) Can you see an initial hint of external conflict in these first pages?
Yes.

8) Is the pacing effective?
It was fine.

9) Are transitions smooth an easy-to-follow?
They seemed good to me.

10) Does the chapter end so you would want to turn the page?
I did put the book down a few times, but I picked it up later and kept reading.

Narrative/Dialogue: 16/20 points

11) Is the narrative compelling with vivid descriptions and pertinent details?
The author did these very well.

12) Are the five senses used to enhance the setting/emotions of the characters?
Yes.

13) Is the setting recognizable?
I think she did a good job.

14) Is the narrative intrusive?
Only in the fact the author kept referencing her previous books and not simply explaining what I needed to know.

15) Are narrative and dialogue balanced?
They were fine.

16) Is the dialogue natural for the character?
All the male characters were similar in voice and all the female characters were similar in voice.

17) Does each character have a distinctive voice?
No.

18) Does the dialogue move the story forward or is it used as a back story/information dump?
I felt it did move the story along.

19) Is action interspersed with dialogue so that characters aren't "talking heads"?
No talking heads here.

Writing Technique: 17/20 points

20) Is the book presented professionally with few typos and generally accepted punctuation?
I did not find anything.

21) Does the author have a unique voice that makes this book stand out?
Jeaniene has a strong voice, and I plan on adding her to my to-read-list.

22) Is the writing easy-to-read with varied sentence length and structure?
It was good.

23) Is action shown, not told?
Yes.

24) Is the point of view handled appropriately?
It was constant throughout.

25) Are transitions of time and setting logical and smooth?
They were fine.

Characterization: 13/15 points

26) Are the hero/heroine introduced in a timely manner or their meeting foreshadowed?
It starts out with a bang and some confetti.

27) Are the characters well developed with believable strengths and flaws?
The strengths and flaws were there.

28) Is the relationship between the hero/heroine emotional as well as physical?
Very much so.

29) Do you believe these characters will achieve happily-ever-after?
I think it was more of a happy-for-right-now.

30) Are the secondary characters appropriate to the story?
They were all important to the story.

31) Are the heroine's goals/conflicts identifiable?
For the most part, yes.

32) Does her motivation make her actions believable?
They were convincing.

33) Are the hero's goals/conflicts identifiable?
For the most part.

34) Does his motivation make his actions believable?
Yes.

Romance: 7/15 points

35) Are the romance elements present?
No, there was no first kiss or pursuit of love. It was more about a couple enduring a hardship with each willing to sacrifice their life for the other.

36) Is the romance elements woven into the story appropriately?
It did not feel like the main plot.

37) Is the romance element integral to the story?
To a lesser degree.

So for Home for the Holidays I give a total of: 79% or 3.95 stars.

Over all, the Bite Before Christmas was an okay read, but I would have preferred to read one of Jeaniene Frost or Lynsay Sands's full-length novels than these short stories. I'm sure they are much more developed and robust. I can't help but feel this was a publisher's marketing idea for the holidays.

I'll be honest. I didn't read the Sands story. I tried but couldn't get into it. What I'm reviewing is Frost's Cat and Bones piece. JF's Cat and Bones are two of my favorite characters. I had to laugh when the thought of Cat and Bones having a normal Christmas because nothing they ever do turns out normal. To be honest I wasn't expecting much but this was really a great little story.

It had lots of drama, emotion and surprises. The surprise of Bone's brother turning up and him learning of his heritage was a real surprise. Excellent story telling and a very satisfying conclusion. In her last book, I felt she rushed the ending but not here. JF took her time and really let the end satisfy the reader.

Supporting characters were great as well. Ian plays a big role and was very well done. The inclusion of the ghosts and discovering how effective they can be as protectors was inventive. Even though it was short it was just a real treat to read. Can't wait for the next one.

I was surprised by the name of the Brother, Wraith. In another Vampire series ,the Brotherhood,the leading Vampire is Named Wraith. I really enjoyed the book because I love the characters. It was a quick and enjoyable read.

Home for the Holidays By Jeaniene Frost,

This is an Awesome Series and this Novella just adds to it! Can't Wait for the Next full lenght book to be released. I want to See what happens with Cat & Bones,Mencheres & Kira and Spade,Denise...and the rest. Curious to See what Ms.Frost has in store for them.in the next installment.

I have read quite a bit of Lynsay sands and this small story was no disappointment. But I also found a new author whose books I will look for in Ms. Jeaniene Frost! Both stories are great little reads for a cozy winter day inside. This is a great read for any romance lovers who wish for a fantasy twist.

Jeanine Frost's story was a treat- Bones find himself sweep away with a possible real family member. Not everything is as it seems, something is changing. Bones is changing.
Lynsay Sands- predictable PNR, cheesy, love fest. To be fair I am not a fan of this style of writing.

Love Lyndsay Sands Argeneau series... Her books never disappoint! Wish it was longer though :) I definitely want to read more about Teddy! Hope their is a whole book for this couple soon. I personally did NOT care for Jeaniene Frost... I had never read her books before, and didn't finish this one. Maybe I was just to stuck on The Gift??? Not sure but I don't think I will be reading A Frost book anytime soon..

I read this book specifically for Jeaniene Frost's story, but Lindsay Sands has captured my attention with her teaming up story as well. I enjoyed both books nd would recommend both to readers of either author & vamp story lovers everywhere!