Once Burned: A Night Prince Novel

<strong> I liked it!</strong>

Exciting, intriguing, adventurous read! Also pretty dang funny , it wasn't a literary masterpiece but I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Vlad is cool and sexy, Leila is a down to earth modern woman with realistic thoughts, expectations and views on love. Good story part 2 here I come !

I started this book with some hesitation. I'm not a real vampire fan and was expecting the usual vamp story. This one had great character development and I really started liking the main players of the book. I'm still very confused about skilagis bones. If they found his old bones in the grave, how is the vap still alive today? Granted, vamps are technically dead, but I'm assuming the don't regenerate complete skeletons. Maybe they do. Anyway, I'm looking forward to the next book.

WOULD YOU BELIEVE AFTER AN ACCIDENT A PERSON CAN SEE THE DARKEST SIDE OF SOMEONE. WELL SOMEONE CAN
YOU ALL HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. I LIVE VAMPIRE STORYS HOWEVER, THIS ONE IS SO GOOD I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. THE STORY IS UNLIKE ANYTHING I HAVE READ. WHAT A GREAT WRITER MS. FROST.
I HAVE READ ALL HER BOOKS AND LOVED ALL OF THEM,BUT THIS ONE WAS DIFFERENT...
TRY IT YOU WILL LIKE IT AND TELL ALL ABOUT IT.
ENJOY........

Enjoyed every syllable of this book I found it heaped with action and sly remarks, love that Vlad needed not much help from the others and his girl was all woman. Sad about her abilities in the end, but happy a sequel for Vlad loved his character in the cat and bones series.

Looking forward to reading the sequel

This is first book of several Vlad stories. What a great way to start with this beginning. I have read them all twice and still sad that the series ends but all good things must come to an end. Great job, J. Frost.

I do not read 'vampire novels' on a regular basis but this one and the sequel really kept my interest and I was very glad that I did read them. I was very much taken with Vlad and his trying to withhold his 'love' but he failed miserably which I was so happy for Leila. Ms. Frost is an 'exceptional' writer and really 'delivers' to her readers which of course her fans most certainly do appreciate!

Another awesome series by Jeanine Frost. Perfect for readers like me (early twenties) who want a thrilling, deep (and slightly dark) vampire romance series that let's you forget about the sickening shallow romances of our teens (a.k.a. Twilight). The MC is pretty kickass herself. You won't be disappointed.

I can't say enough about The Night Huntress series with Cat and Bones. Each and every book rates a solid five stars for me in both cleverness, writing style, humor, romance and action. All of the additional characters are fantastic and each is worthy of it's own book. Mencheres is my favorite from a romantic perspective, but Vlad was the one who made me laugh the hardest. Loving the character Vlad had me waiting restlessly for this release. I couldn't be more disappointed and since I know she has his book 2 coming out next year, all I can wish for is that she returns to book 1 FIRST and completely rewrites it.

It's not that the characters or the plot were so terrible. I even liked the ideas for Leila and how she fit into the story and became involved in Vlad's life. But "Once Burned" lost all the essence of Vlad and took away the more believable writing Jeaniene is good at. It read way too fast and shallow like a short story or a weak Harlequin Romance. I couldn't buy into most of the decisions or actions made by the characters and it wasn't because they weren't possible, it just required more thoughtful writing for them to make sense and resonate.

This book also completely loses the "visual" of Vlad from all his appearances in the Night Huntress books. He was different in this one, and this is his own book! How Sad!!! I so looked forward to seeing more of his sarcastic humor that Cat brings out of him and since he considers her one of his closest friends, how much more should he "bloom" with a woman he was romantically attached to? He has depth and complex, scary layers and yet when in the safety of someone he cares about, he's downright fun. But he was no fun in this book and it was a severe disappointment that took me completely by surprise.

I honestly didn't think Jeaniene was capable of writing anything less then superior 5 star quality like the prior 8 novels she wrote (I'm not including the short stories as I don't hold those to the same standards.) The amount of time and thoughtful design invested into writing this story was no where near the amount of time obviously invested in "Eternal Kiss of Darkness" where she focuses on the character Mencheres (Bones' Grandsire.) That one hit the bulls eye each and every page and was perfect. Jeaniene took her time explaining her characters and working through their thoughts and choices. She didn't do that with Once Burned and it would only have succeeded if it were published as a short story within an anthology where the expectations are much lower. Having read "First Drops of Crimson" and "Eternal Kiss...", I did not expect an anthology or short story type book and I certainly didn't pay for one. The first two spin-offs of Night Huntress characters Spade and Mencheres set me up to expect the same experience with Vlad and she really owes her readers a rewrite. I truly would re-read this if it went back to the drawing board and came out with the same quality and richness as the others.

We love Vlad. We need a story with writing quality that is worthy of his character. Sadly this is not the one.

I truly enjoy all of Jeanine frost's novels. "Once Burned" happens to be my favorite. Tempesh is a sexy count Dracula who would most definitely drive you insane with his cockiness, bad temper, masculine behavior, infatuation with punishment but most importantly his ability to make you realize all those things that you find so irritating is what makes him so irresistible. Leila is bright, spunky, fun. She fights for her friends and family and isn't afraid to take a risk. She's the perfect match for Tempesh. I like fun books and this is a fun read.

This book was great for something to enjoy over my weekend. It had action and romance and vampires. Also, my favorite part of this book had to be Leila's voice. She was fun and real. I instantly liked reading how she explained a situation.

My only real issue was Vlad. Sometimes I liked his overconfidence, but other times I wished he would treat Leila better somehow. I can't say he ever hurt her or even said anything cruel to her. He just occasionally treated her with disrespect unless they were about to have sex. I also get this lust fog over a new hunky male character, but once the fog dissipates I like to enjoy the deeper qualities of the character. I didn't like Vlad's deeper character since there was something blocking who he was. I felt disconnected when he talked about his past, and I had no idea how he felt about anything in his future. There was just...something missing. Maybe this is a result of the use of first-person limited, but even if that's the case I did not like how two-dimensional he felt. It was as if he wasn't a main character.

The book was mostly fast paced, but any slow parts that came up were not fun to sit through. Still, there were a lot of details to sort through, a lot happens in the story, and it IS a lengthy book. For the most part I was entertained by it. Leila especially was fun to read about.

I personally love Jeaniene Frost's series `The night huntress series.' So, I had to read her new series `A Night Prince Novel' which is based on one of the character in her previews series. I can honestly say she did not disappoint. Vlad and Franky are witty and delicious. Between the two of them they are a powerful couple that I am eager to learn more about! I'd recommend clearing your day before you read this book because you won't be able to put it down. Great job Frost you have an amazing talent.

I love the Night Huntress series and Jeaniene Frost's writing style, and I was SO excited to get a book starring Vlad, but I was a bit disappointed by this book. Vlad seemed too vicious to be a sympathetic character in this book, and the entire book felt rushed. (It was pretty short.) It was still an enjoyable read for the most part, but I don't know that I'll be jumping to buy the next book in the Vlad series.

I've got no complaints about this book. Absolutely loved it! Very stoked that Jeaniene Frost chose to delve into the life and expand the character of one of her witty side characters in the Night Huntress series. If you liked the first 4-5 books of the Night Huntress Series, it would be an absolute tragedy if you skipped reading this book and its now-available sequel: "Twice Tempted."

Having tormented myself with the extended 20% excerpt while waiting for my book to arrive, I ripped through Once Burned. I really liked the story and I really enjoyed Frost's newest heroine, circus performer Leila, who still suffers the after effects of being struck by lightning as a child - which has left her unable to touch anyone without possibly deadly consequences. Leila is smart, funny, straight forward, loyal and independant, and I really liked her with Vlad I could just feel the heat and electricity between them - both literally and figuratively:)

A human vamp pairing is tough in some ways, because of the imbalance of power between mortal and immortal and the fiery Vlad is one of the most powerful immortals. But fortunately Leila isn't entirely powerless and her unusual talents were enough to capture Vlad's attention but it's her attitude and the fact that she is 'beautiful and diabolical' that intrigue him enough to pursue her.

I also loved Vlad - the most famous of vampires and the original fearsome impaling prince - he's so beautiful, arrogant and merciless. Vlad is definitely one to give IAD's Lothaire a run for the money, except while Vlad is ruthless he's not evil - he just protects what is his. But while I loved Vlad, who has been a treat throughout Frost's Night Huntress series, I didn't really find Vlad as funny without Cat to play off of. (Cat, Bones, Kira and Mencheres had a very brief cameo - and Bones gives Leila a very helpful hint for dealing with mind-reading vamps.)

A word of warning, unlike the other Night Huntress spin offs this isn't a one-book romance, it is first person sexy UF from Leila's point of view - with only a few brief glimpses into Vlad's mind courtesy of Leila's magic touch, and since this is only the first of Vlad and Leila's books, their story doesn't feel finished - because it isn't. So the ending which left several facets of the story open didn't bother me - though it is a bummer that the next book, Twice Tempted: A Night Prince Novel, isn't until March of 2013.

I really enjoyed Once Burned, but I did have a few nits with the love scenes - they are sort of spoilerish so I put them in the comments to this review to make them easier to avoid. Still a great addition to Frost's Night Huntress world - now the wait for book 2 begins:)

I have been waiting for Once Burned since Frost first announced she was writing this book. It hasn't been a patient wait for me, and when I finally got my hands on this novel, I had extremely high hopes for it. I was not disappointed! Like with all of Frost's other books, I was hooked from the first page, and Vlad grabbed onto me and wouldn't let me go until the very end. Okay, I wish it was Vlad who grabbed me... it was actually the action-packed, suspenseful plot; complex, realistic characters, and amazing, descriptive world-building that held my attention. I love Once Burned l just as much, if not more, than the Cat and Bones books that I adore so much. Frost has outdone herself with this novel.

I'll be honest here... I was afraid I wouldn't like Leila as much as I like Cat. I figured no character could be as kick ass as Cat (okay, except maybe Elena from the Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series), but I was pleasantly surprised. Leila isn't as angry at the outside world as Cat is, but she really hates herself. However, when push comes to shove, she stands her ground and fights for herself and those she cares about. She's a very complicated character, and quite a bit darker than Cat the other female leads in the Night Huntress World. I really liked the darkness in her, though. Vlad said he could sense a darkness in her, and I agree with him. That darkness made her all the more interesting. It was fascinating to learn about the world Frost has created through the eyes of someone like Leila, who had some knowledge of vampires, but didn't know nearly enough about them. The more she learns about the world of the vampires, the more she learns about herself. She grows tremendously throughout this novel, and I think I liked her even better at the end than I did in the beginning.

Vlad... I think he's the fictional love of my life. He's always been my favorite character in the Night Huntress and Night Huntress World series, so obviously I was beyond elated to hear that he was getting, not only his own book, but his own series. He is everything I dreamed he would be and more *cue cheesy sappy music here*. He is also complex and more ruthless than I realized. The fact that he is so violent and his moods are so volatile make it that much more touching when he interacts with Leila and his soft side shows. I really love how his personalty is so extreme, and yet somehow believable. His arrogance is actually endearing, and his honesty and loyalty are honorable. *dreamy sigh*

The romance between Leila and Vlad is super hot, and not just because of Vlad's firestarting ability. They have a lot of chemistry between them, and I look forward to seeing what's in store for them next. The Epilogue ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, as far as their relationship was concerned, so I'm counting down the days until I can know what happens next with my new favorite vampire/human couple.

The plot is suspenseful and action-packed. There is a lot going on, but Frost's attention to detail makes it easy to keep up. An air of mystery surrounds the bad guy, and for awhile, no one knows who he is. I would have liked a little more information about Rend, one of the bad guy's "employees," but none was provided. Maybe we'll get to see what exactly he did to lead him to his job with the bad guy.

This novel is a bit darker than the Cat and Bones novels. Since we are in Leila's head, and if she touches someone she sees horrible things, there is more graphic violence than Frost's previous novels. Also, Leila and Vlad are darker characters than Cat and Bones. However, I liked the darkness, and it added a different feel to this series. I think that the darkness made Once Burned stand out from the Night Huntress and Night Huntress World novels, and that's a good thing. As Frost said at her signing, she didn't want to keep writing the same stories and creating the same characters over and over again. She definitely branched out with this novel, and it worked extremely well.

Overall, I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys paranormal romance or darker paranormal novels. Once Burned is sure to appeal to Frost's already established fan base, and I'm sure that it will earn her many new readers as well.

The book were interesting I mostly enjoyed the plot. The heroine was well written with very interesting qualities.
However I can't understand why she even falls for the male lead... He's obnoctious and cruel. The whole book is founded on a premise that torture is a valid form of interrogation... I couldn't facepalm enough about this. I get that you really can't choose who you fall in love with but why did she fall for that bastard I can't comprehend. His only good quality is that he's hot.

I just don't understand what has happened .I absolutely loved Jeaniene Frost's books but it seemslike everything after Mencheres story has been lacking.. as if the author is really tired of the series herself. I was so looking forward to finally reading about Vlad,I was so drawn to him with how he was with Cat but now that he has found someone to take as his own he's almost cold to her at times. In the night huntress series we see him comfort Cat and take her into his home and at one point he somewhat seeks comfort from her. Its as if we are reading about a totally different character. I made it to 57% and sent it back for a refund which saddens me. I hate to see a character I obsessed over turn out so flat and uninteresting.

If you like paranormal romance then this is a nice twist on the most famous vampire, Dracula... just don't let him hear you call him that! You get swept away into the story, and it makes for a nice diverting read. I always like the heroines that Jeaniene Frost writes about, which are vunerable yet incredibly strong in many ways.

Jeaniene Frost has been one of my favorite authors since the first time I picked up Halfway to the Grave. I absolutely fell in love with the Night Huntress series and since Vlad is one of my favorite characters in that series, when I found out that he was getting his own I was ecstatic.

Once Burned starts off with Leila, who is a human with some unusual abilities. An accident with a downed power line with she was thirteen left her with the ability to expel power whenever she touches someone. It also left her with psychometry; the ability to see the past, present and future by one touch.

Leila's gift comes to the attention of a group of vampires who want to use her to track down the most notorious vampire Vlad Tepesh. While trying to connect to Vlad and see where his location is in the present she accidently makes a mental connection with him. Once explaining the situation to Vlad, he comes to her rescue and this is where to story really begins.

I love Leila and Vlad together. Leila is a strong character; she doesn't dwell on her past or feel sorry for herself, she does an awesome job at dealing with the cards she has been dealt. I've always loved Vlad. I love his sense of humor and his protectiveness. I think Leila is a good fit for him, she's not afraid to put him in his place...which let's face it, not a lot of people can get away with that.

The Night Huntress fans will be glad to know that we do get to see a few characters from the Night Huntress series in this book. Once Burned is a great first book in the Night Prince series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.

Favorite Quotes:

"I'm attracted to a lot of hot guys. If Chris Hemsworth were here, I'd light him up like a firecracker with how fast I'd jump on him."
"I'm the only authentic Vlad. Everyone else is merely an envious imitation."

I absolutely love Jeanine Frost's writing! I have read all of her works to date and found my self satisfied each and every time. Her writing is so vivid and each and every one of her characters, good or bad is amazing! Once Burned is a fun, (at times) funny, sensual, exciting read that was extremely hard to put down. I REALLY had to pace myself with it to make it last. I felt it to be one of those reads that it's done before you know it and you never want it to end. Any paranormal lover will get full enjoyment out of Once Burned :)

Leila considers herself a freak; Injured due to a power line coming in contact with her and ending up like an electrostatic plasma ball but much more powerful and dangerous. She's also scarred from the traumatizing event in many ways but also has some amazing abilities. Now her place is with a father like figure named Marty and some REAL carnival freaks in a traveling carnival. After one day letting one of her abilities out accidentally and sharing what she has found out. Many start to come after her and her abilities with hopes to use her for their own selfish purposes. She now finds herself in a situation she cannot escape but uses her smarts and power to get help.

Vlad (oh Vlad) is one hot vampire! He's not one to mess with in any regard. After all he is known as Vlad the Impaler and can blow things (and people) up, nice a crisply, with a mere flick of his wrist. When he feels Leila in his head he is hesitant, but comes to a decision to help her since he's who they want after all. Does he regret his decision to help her from the start or is he in his glory because she has powers that have proven very useful and efficient to finding his enemies?

I'm looking forward to the next in the series. I really hope the wall around Vlad's heart crumbles and he lets Leila fully in. They are a great team and have excellent chemistry together. It would great to see a relationship grow with the two. I really wonder what the next will unfold for us!!

Again, I am going to keep this review short...

Once Burned (Night Prince #1) by Jeaniene Frost was another book that I read while I was on vacation that I hadn't planned on reviewing. But again, it was so freaking good that I had to share.

Once Burned is the first book in the Night Prince series that features Vlad and Leila. The Night Prince series is a spin-off of the Night Huntress series that features Bones and Cat. You do not need to read the Night Huntress series in order to read the Night Prince series. I have read the first four books in the Night Huntress series, but I am not up to date with the Night Huntress series and I still really, really enjoyed the first novel in the Night Prince series. I am going to get caught up with the Night Huntress series soon because I love Ms. Frost's writing and it's time to get back to Bones and Cat, but you don't have to read the Night Huntress series first. However, if you enjoy one then I strongly recommend that you read the other because both series are similar in style.

Once Burned was the perfect first novel in a new series. It's super sexy and very easy to get lost in. I absolutely love the two main characters in this series, especially Vlad. OMG! He is a sexy, wounded alpha bad boy. They don't get any better than that!

I gave Once Burned (Night Prince #1) by Jeaniene Frost 5 STARS. I strongly recommend this fabulous new adult paranormal romance series. It's HOT! It's EXCITING! It's NEW!

-XOXO

READING, EATING AND DREAMING

FOR MORE REVIEWS CHECK OUT MY BLOG ON BLOGSPOT: READING, EATING & DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF

Again, I am going to keep this review short...

Once Burned (Night Prince #1) by Jeaniene Frost was another book that I read while I was on vacation that I hadn't planned on reviewing. But again, it was so freaking good that I had to share.

Once Burned is the first book in the Night Prince series that features Vlad and Leila. The Night Prince series is a spin-off of the Night Huntress series that features Bones and Cat. You do not need to read the Night Huntress series in order to read the Night Prince series. I have read the first four books in the Night Huntress series, but I am not up to date with the Night Huntress series and I still really, really enjoyed the first novel in the Night Prince series. I am going to get caught up with the Night Huntress series soon because I love Ms. Frost's writing and it's time to get back to Bones and Cat, but you don't have to read the Night Huntress series first. However, if you enjoy one then I strongly recommend that you read the other because both series are similar in style.

Once Burned was the perfect first novel in a new series. It's super sexy and very easy to get lost in. I absolutely love the two main characters in this series, especially Vlad. OMG! He is a sexy, wounded alpha bad boy. They don't get any better than that!

I gave Once Burned (Night Prince #1) by Jeaniene Frost 5 STARS. I strongly recommend this fabulous new adult paranormal romance series. It's HOT! It's EXCITING! It's NEW!

-XOXO

READING, EATING AND DREAMING

FOR MORE REVIEWS CHECK OUT MY BLOG ON BLOGSPOT: READING, EATING & DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF

I finally get an understanding about the man called Dracula. (yea, I know he hates the name)..
It started out slow, but I could not put it down.
Vlad found the perfect match in Leila. My only disappointment is the story is told from Leila's point of view.
Why!
It was still fun to read and I am so looking forward to the next Night Prince Novel.

I was anxiously awaiting this book's release after reading the blurb, because the plot was something I knew I'd love. I was crossing my fingers it would be well-written so I could end up enjoying it as much as I'd hoped, and I have to say it exceeded my expectations. It was sexy and thrilling, and the characters were engaging and just won me over completely. This was exactly the escape I wanted, and I just wish we didn't have to wait so long for the next book in this great new series.

In Burned, Leila is a woman with a gift (or curse, depending on how you look at it) that resulted from an accident she had years ago. Scarred and damaged from touching a power line, she has the ability to channel electricity through her hand and read a person's past, present, or future by touching them. For her, this has meant a lonely life trying to make a living doing a traveling circus act with her dwarf vampire friend Marty. That is, until the day she's grabbed up by 4 angry vampires who want to use her powers to find Vlad Tepesh, the vampire the legends are based upon. But when she channels into Vlad's present, his mind-reading abilities make him able to speak to her mind when she's tapped into him. Using her last hope, Leila asks for Vlad's help to escape, but she gets much more than she bargained for. Turns out Vlad has a special ability of his own that makes him immune to Leila's touch, which proves very enticing given Vlad is a muscle-clad sexy beast of a man. Vlad rescues Leila and whisks her away in the hopes he can use her gifts to find out who wants him dead; but as they spend more time together on this mission, it's clear that there's more than just a business relationship going on. Leila knows she can't resist the aching pull she feels towards him, but that means possibly risking her life and definitely her heart.

I can't say enough how much I just loved this book, because it had two things I loved combined into one awesome story. The fantasy aspect was handled perfectly, with just enough thrilling, chilling vampire plot to make your skin crawl and your mouth water. It was such an exciting sequence of events throughout the whole book, with characters that I really enjoyed. And the steaminess factor, I have to say, was HOT! There were fiery sparks shooting off between these two from the start, and Vlad just had me melting right along with her. It was a slow burn that ignited just long enough to get your heart pounding out of your chest, then it got right back into more twists and scary turns of events that easily grabbed my attention. I didn't want to put the book down because there were no points where I wasn't drawn into either the characters, the plot, or the fireworks between Vlad and Leila!

I really liked Leila, she started off as a woman who was comfortable with where she was at in life but didn't expect much for herself because of it. She knew her abilities and her scars made her a freak, but she embraced her life of loneliness and was just content having Marty caring about her like his own daughter. But her snarky personality and quick whit made her fun from the very start, and the way she grows into this diabolical, powerful woman in the story was just awesome. I loved hearing her quirky thoughts, she was absolutely hysterical!! And I loved Vlad's reactions to her mind rambling even more, it was a perfect addition of lighthearted banter amongst all the drama and pulse-racing chemistry between them!

And Vlad, oh this sexy thing, he won me over in a heartbeat! And I'm not usually one to like men with flowing long hair, but I didn't care with this guy because he was just hotter than words (literally). One of my favorite lines sums up Vlad's sexiness perfectly:

"Beautiful and diabolical. You make me impatient indeed to claim you."

* sigh * There's just something so utterly sexy about a gorgeous, strong vampire telling you he's going to stake his claim!! He was cocky and so sure of himself, but not in a way that made him vulgar or had him coming across as a neanderthal like some other romance novels I've come across. He was intelligent, clever, funny, and even had moments where he was just downright sweet to Leila in his own alpha-male way. I just adored him, and he was so perfect for Leila's self-esteem in the way he made her feel sexy and wanted.

Like I said, there was never really a dull moment in this story, and a lot of that was the creepy and gut-wrenching lifestyle of the vamps. Vlad was the ultimate vampire, not taking anyone's bull and commanding obedience from his men (thankfully, this behavior didn't extend to his relationship with Leila, making me love him even more!). When his enemies were after them, Vlad and the other boys left no doubts about their intentions. I loved that Leila wasn't just always the damsel in distress, though, it made her so much more exciting and interesting that she could handle herself instead of always relying on Vlad and the boys to save her. Some of the scenes were just sickening to my stomach, but come on, they're vampires...

I was so into this story that when I realized it was already up to the epilogue and things were not at all resolved with Vlad and Leila, I was floored. I knew this was a series, but with most romance series the sequel goes on to a story about one of the other characters. I wasn't expecting this one to cover more of Leila and Vlad's story, so now I'm a combination of excited and mad that I have to wait until next year to have more!! I wasn't expecting to get so attached to a fantasy romance, but these great characters just roped me in for the long haul! Definitely plan to read this one again to hold myself over until next March, because I just loved it!! Highly recommend to readers who love both fantasy and romance, Burned has it all!!

Vlad was definitely one of my very favorite secondary characters from Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress series. The legendary Dracula -- but don't call him that please! A super hot, super seductive vampire with a tremendous amount of power and charisma. When I heard that he was getting his very own breakoff series I was ecstatic, and I have been waiting months for the release of this book. I entered my reading with high expectations, and what did I find? I loved it! It was everything I loved about Vlad previously and more. I was not disappointed at all.

The specifics:

The narrator of this story is Leila, a human with the ability to channel electricity through her right hand. In addition she is able to see a person's past, present, and future simply by touching them or an object connected to them in some way. As the story begins she is basically hiding away in a traveling circus, working with a little person who also happens to be a vampire. So the world of vampires is not a surprise to Leila. However, her relatively peaceful existence comes to an end when her ability to divine future events is made public and other vampires learn of it. Now she is a hot commodity among vampires, and she is kidnapped by a group who want her to use her power for their benefit. While working for them under duress she comes into contact with Vlad, decides that he is the best chance for her escape, and leads him to her rescue. And then the story really begins.

Without spoiling anything ... this is a romance between a vampire who admits at the beginning that he will not fall in love and a woman who, at first, does not trust or want to fall in love with a vampire. Leila is strong and independent enough that she doesn't bow down to Vlad's demands. She stands up to him, and NO ONE does that. Ever. The fact that she makes it through this book alive says much about how much Vlad loves her. He is generally ruthless and even diabolical, not known to deal with people/vampires with any emotion. But it seems as if Leila has broken through that wall ... maybe. Vlad is kind of a hot and cold sort of guy, and most people probably wouldn't last long in such a relationship. But Leila is pretty special, and it seems as if she might be the one to make this work ... somehow. Even at the end of this book their relationship is not what I would label ideal. There are things that will need to be worked out in future books.

As in the books from the Night Huntress series there is lots of action and mystery to keep the plot moving. Vlad has enemies that are strong and vicious, and these enemies put Leila in danger. But Leila is no weak damsel in distress. She is strong, and she is cunning, and she finds that she can be a bit ruthless at times as well when the circumstances call for it. Leila was an excellent heroine for this story.

What I liked:

Vlad. What can I say about him that will equal his power in this book? Nothing. Take a look at that picture on the cover. Pure power and abs of steel to match. He is driven and fiercely protective of those in his care. And he is scary. And sensual. I love this character. One book is not enough to contain his story.

Leila. Another strong female character written by Jeaniene. But she is just enough vulnerable to make her realistic as well ... well, as realistic as an electrical bolt shooting human can be. I root for her relationship with Vlad and admire her for her devotion to those she loves.

The story does not end on a cliff hanger, but it doesn't end with a completely finished story either. Enemies of Vlad are still roaming the countryside. There is more to learn about Leila and her abilities. There is more to learn about Vlad and his feelings. He's not really much of a sharer when it comes to deeper emotions, so it'll take another book or so to get to the bottom of things. But I love these characters so much that I am willing to read more and more about them to see them through these mysteries. This was an excellent beginning to a new series by Jeaniene, and I do highly recommend it for fans of her other series. You don't exactly need to have read that series in order to enjoy this book, but it is fun to know a bit of the back story as you read this one. I can't wait until next spring to see what happens next!

Vlad, you've stolen my Bones-loving heart. Really, you did. With your arrogance, your confidence and your ability to ignite any situation, I find myself smitten with you. You have it all - devastatingly handsome features, a rock-solid body toned by centuries of fighting and ruling, a sharp mind full of darkness, flowing dark hair and the uncanny ability to set anything on fire while simultaneously reading any human's mind. You're the whole package!

This story, be forewarned, is not told from Vlad's perspective, but from Leila's. We meet Leila, a mid-twenty-something girl who is hiding from her own dark and destructive past. She is a circus performer and has an act with her friend and father-figure, a vampire dwarf named Marty. Leila also has an uncanny ability - she can shock people with electricity if she touches them with her right hand, and she can catch glimpses of their past, present and future by touching people or objects with the same hand. Leila is kidnapped early on by a couple of vampires, and is able to channel Vlad to rescue her by holding a silver knife he had once used to kill a rival vampire.

While linking up to Vlad, she informs him that vampires have kidnapped her and that she needs help. Vlad is immediately interested in Leila because of her abilities. Once Vlad determines that Leila is not lying to him, he flies to Florida to save her and to capture the kidnapping vampires. These vampires kidnapped Leila in the hopes of her using her abilities to locate Vlad, so Vlad takes Leila to his castle in Romania to protect her.

Leila is shocked to find that she is unable to hurt Vlad with the electricity running through her body. She is also annoyed that Vlad can read her mind. Vlad begins his pursuit of Leila in earnest once they are at his castle. Vlad is immediately intrigued by Leila, a dark-haired beauty with a toned gymnast's body, and is in awe of her power - her ability to see the present, past and future. His arrogance is palpable and he is confident that he will eventually call Leila his own.

Vlad is every bit the arrogant, powerful vampire we have grown to know from The Night Huntress series. What we see more of in this book is his underlying pain and vulnerability. He makes it very clear to Leila that he is not playing games with her and that he wants her as his lover. He promises her protection, monogamy and companionship, yet tells her up front that he can never love her. Vlad is plagued by the sorrows in his past, and his inability to protect his wife that ended up dead in his arms.

We see some familiar faces briefly in this book. Cat, Bones, Mencheres and Kira are all present. It is interesting to see Bones through Leila's eyes. Cat comes across as sweet and kind. Bones as a too-handsome Ken doll. We also see Vlad's true distaste for Bones in one scene. Bones goes as far as taunting Vlad during a scene were Leila puts the Romanian prince in his place.

Leila is one of my favorite new heroines. She carries around her own baggage and has a fair bit of darkness inside of her. The girl has some spunk, though. She is not scared of Vlad, and is perfectly capable of taking care of herself. She doesn't let Vlad push her around, and oftentimes tells Vlad the way that things are going to be. She is strong and stubborn with an unbreakable will of her own. When she is in a critical situation in this book, she doesn't run to Vlad for protection. Instead, she purposely doesn't involve Vlad in order to protect him, and finds a way out of trouble all on her own. Leila also has a wonderful sense of humor that is evident throughout this book, that kept me laughing.

The relationship between Vlad and Leila is the highlight of this book for me. Neither is dependent on the other. They immediately agree to no game-playing, and they are honest with one another. Vlad quickly decides that Leila is the right woman for him. In his six centuries of life, Vlad has rarely taken on a lover and he is ready to share himself with Leila. There are a couple of steamy scenes, and one very hot shower scene. Vlad begins to care more for Leila than he is willing to admit, although the subject never comes up in conversation. Leila has the hots for the dark and sexy vampire who has changed her entire world.

The question remains at the end of this book - Who is Vlad Tepesh? Leila learns throughout this book that Vlad is a series of contradictions. Something happens towards the end of this book that leaves Leila feeling a bit insecure. However, her determination to live with and help Vlad in any way she can is evident.

I honestly must say that I was less than thrilled with the last Cat and Bones book, One Grave at a Time. However, this book made me fall in love with Jeaniene Frost's writing all over again. The only criticism I have, which isn't even a criticism, is that the book was left open-ended and there is a long wait until the continuation of the series. I loved this book about Vlad, and he has me begging impatiently for the next Night Prince book due in Spring of 2013.

I normally avoid vampire books. I do enjoy paranormal reads upon occasion. The cover of this book caught my eye, but only after it was recommended as a good book to read on another author's site by a fan of the book. I read this book so quick, that I purchased the second before done with this one, knowing I needed to read more as soon as possible. LOVED IT!

What a thrill ride "Once Burned" is! This book takes everything that made me fall in love with the Night Huntress series (the action and adventure, the complex, likeable characters, the sharp humor, the ability to make an unreal world feel so believable), and revs it up a notch.

When I first read that Vlad would be getting not just a spin off book, but an entire series, I was skeptical, and a bit unimpressed. Though he has awesome powers and a pretty cool relationship with Cat, I wasn't gaga over him or anticipating his book. One word: Ian. I wanted Ian!

Let me just say that how wrong I was to not to have recognized the awesomeness that is Vlad!

In Jeaniene Frost's capable hands, a character whose actions are despicable and horrifying is convincingly turned into a sympathetic and relatable man. Though the deeds of Vlad's past are dirty, it is easy to understand his motivation and loyalty, and in turn really like him. He is so charming and charismatic. He's snarky. I love a snarky bad boy. In a nutshell, he's electrifying!

But enough about Vlad. This story truly belongs to the heroine, Leila. She's the first Night Huntress female that I really liked, besides Cat. I never connected or cared for Kira or Denise. Leila is fantastic. She's wounded and messed up, which makes her interesting. She's strong, independent, smart, and sarcastic, which make her my kind of girl.

I love Vlad and Leila together. They are a perfect balance to each other's darkness. The connection between the two of them was one of the best parts of the book (and I can't say any more than that for fear of spoilers!) Hot! Hot! Hot! In more ways than one. Or two.

Great supporting characters who are important to the main story, but also have interesting histories of their own. A small cameo by Cat and Bones, Mencheres and Kira. Pretty much "blink and you miss it", but enough to remind us whose world we are in!

This book was definitely dark and violent, but was filled with many moments of light, love, and joy.

I am now a convert to the cult of Vlad. I am so glad that the story between Vlad and Leila will continue. It's far from over!

Frankie lives in a town with circus performers. Being in a circus is perfect for her. Not in a town very long, accepted by fellow freaks, and if damage is done she wouldn't be in a town long enough to trace it to her. When Frankie was a kid she was electrocuted. After waking from a coma, she has found that her mom was dead (trying to save her) and she now held a electric charge that released when she touched anyone. Marty, a vampire, also with the circus. Is Frankie's, fill in dad, best friend, and the only person that can handle touching her. If a walking electrical outlet wasn't bad enough. When her right hand touches anything she gets to see the sins of the person who has left an impression on the item. As Marty and her are training for their circus act, Frankie gets abducted. She knows they are vampires. They want her to touch some objects and tell them where the vampire who touched them is. Even though she doesn't want to help them, she is forced to. She is bombarded with the evil deeds of the man they are searching for. She sees that he can wield fire without harming himself and is deadly in his fighting. Because she had touched one of her kidnappers, she knows they are going to kill her when they are done with her. So she decides to contact the killer from the items. He promises to not kill her and he comes to find the abductors. After being rescued, she doesn't know if she has just gone from one bad situation to another. And he may be crazy to boot. Vlad the Impaler died hundreds of years ago, didn't he....I mean the real Dracula? And with his fire abilities, Frankie's electrical charge does nothing to him. Will the fact her can touch her without harm, change the fear to attraction? Is he really the Vlad of history? And the abductors who were after Frankie, who hired them? Vlad agrees to protect her but who will protect Frankie's heart? And will she finally learn how to control her own powers?

I have had this book for a while and finally had a chance to read it. The story was awesome. The character of Frankie has overcome huge odds and has already lost so much as the story begins. She believes she is on her own, except for maybe Marty. When Vlad enters the picture she is confused emotional and physically. She is feeling stuff she hasn't aloud herself to fell in years, due to her condition. Vlad enters with his own issues and problems. The only complaint, would be the ending isn't the happily ever after I was hoping for. It isn't a bad ending, so don't read to much in to it. But more of a too be continued in the next book. I guess when thinking about it, it is more real. One book may not be enough to tell their story. I am hoping Ms Frost will send me the 2nd book to review on my blog. [...] Either way I can't wait to see what happens to Frankie and Vlad. This book had adult situations,(violence and sexual) so 18 and up.

Vlad has been my favorite vampire from the Night Huntress series since he was introduced. He's a complete contradiction depending on whether you're friend or foe and I would say that this first book in a new series spinoff from the Night Huntress series explains his combination of arrogance, thoughtfulness, intelligence, and violence perfectly. While I found the Night Huntress world novels for Mencheres and Spade wonderful standalone books, I'm thrilled that Vlad is the character that's chosen for his own series, and I have to say, Ms. Frost could not have created a better female heroine to pair him up with.

Leila works with a traveling circus and has very unique abilities after surviving electrocution from a downed wire as a girl. Not only does she carry an electric shock that can hurt people, but she also has psychic abilities to see past, present and future from objects she touches. When an old enemy of Vlad learns of her powers, he scoops in to have her kidnapped to help them ambush Vlad by learning his whereabouts in the future. Unfortunately, they completely underestimated the power of a mere human woman.

As I mentioned earlier, Leila is absolutely fantastic and I like her more than I actually liked Cat in the beginning. Vlad was a touch too smug with little challenge, but he was not inconsistent from previous books. What would have made this book a five star for me was more development between Vlad and Leila. There is a certain spark or verbal foreplay that Ms Frost is so good at, that was missing here, and although actions speak much louder than words, the words decreased the romance factor significantly, leaving it open for several directions in the next novel. The secondary characters are likeable and I would already be upset to lose any of them in future books. Overall, it's a great addition to the world that has been established but I'm looking forward to a little more pluck and tension for future installments.

Yeah baby! Jeaniene Frost, whatever your formula is, it's working. Great spin off from NIght Huntress. The cover model looks exactly as Vlad is described. The story is exciting with great evil guys, mystery, and the romance build up keeps you wanting for more. Perfect story telling to incorporate the 'medievally modern' Vlad the Impaler into today. Tall dark and Romanian! More, please...

Jeaniene Frost did it again. When we first met Vlad in the Night Huntress series, I immediately loved his character. Even though we know him as Dracula, Jeaniene made Vlad so different from what we know from history and entertainment. His friendship with Cat was the first time we saw a glimpse of what Vlad is like.

In Once Burned, Jeaniene expanded on that. Yes he's still the arrogant, cocky, fiery vampire we all know and love but she shows us his past pain and sins which helps the reader understand him even more.

Once Burned was so much fun to read. It had everything I was looking for in it. It had so much action, drama and humor I couldn't read it fast enough. First of all, Vlad. He's every bit the dangerous vampire we all know, but in this novel we also see how protective of his people he is. He only looks for loyalty in return.

Leila's character is perfect for Vlad. She's very strong willed, and all though she's been through so much more than most people have, she doesn't let it destroy her. Vlad is the type of vampire that not only needed a strong personality mate, but someone who isn't afraid to stand up to him. And we see that in Leila. She's a very easy character to get close to. She's funny, sarcastic, stubborn and strong. She's everything that will keep Vlad guessing.

I especially enjoyed having an appearance of Bones, Cat, Mencheres and Kira. Although their appearance wasn't all that long it was nice seeing old friends.

All in all, once again, Jeaniene brought us another enjoyable and hard-to-put-down series. Everything you want is in it. Action, suspense, romance, humor and a lot of drama. It was fast paced all the way to the end. And it paved the way for the next installment.

I absolutely loved it and recommend it to everyone. All though even though this could be a stand alone series, I do suggest starting from the Night Huntress series first.

Jeanine Frost created a wonderful character in Vlad. He's not the typical"Dracula " image that you see in most books. I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself running towards the next. Without giving the story away, the characters in this book are unique and the heroines are always strong willed sassy women. Finally a writer who stays away from damsel in distress. All I can say is read it! If you like cat and bones you will really enjoy this!

This was another great paranormal romance from a master of the genre. Vlad Tepesh has been a recurring character in other books in this world but now he gets his own romance. When some vampires kidnap Leila to use her talents at touching an object and seeing the past, present, and future of the owner, she comes into mental contact with Vlad because he is the vampire her kidnappers are looking for.

Vlad rescues her and takes her home with him. His ability to read her mind lets him know that she is a victim and not a lure. It takes a while for Leila to get used to the idea that Vlad can read her mind but she adjusts to it. Her experiences with touching others and knowing their most shameful secrets has made her more open to having her thoughts out there for him to see.

Vlad is a very frightening hero. He doesn't hesitate to kill to protect those who are his people. He is also arrogant. Of course, he is also beautiful and one of the only people Leila can touch without killing. Her ability to know about objects wasn't the only result of being electrocuted when she touched a downed power line. She also is electrified herself. She can't touch anyone without electrocuting them. But Vlad's element is fire. Not only can he accept her touch, he revels in it.

Together Vlad and Leila have to find out who arranged her kidnapping and who wants to kill Vlad. It was great watching the two of them develop a relationship. Despite his vast age and power, Leila is a match for him. She won't let him push her around and, unlike everyone else around him, he doesn't bow down to his commands.

I can't wait until the next book in the series to find out more about Vlad and Leila.

Who would have thought jeaniene frost could make another hit? I loved cat and bones and now Vlad and lea what a wonderful start to a spinoff series. You will love it I promise you get humor, major hotness, dominate pushy male, and just pure hours of enjoyment.

VLAD and LEILA'S STORY...

I love love love Vlad... but I hate hate hate him too!!!! I could give this book a 5 star rating based on the cover alone... holy hot!!!

I'm so glad Leila (Frankie) has some gifted powers... powers that make her interesting and intriguing to Vlad and other vamps... but the love/power struggles between her and Mr. Tepesh "the impaler" are driving me in effing sane!!!!

Don't you just hate when the hero is being a jerk, so the heroine does something stupid cause she's pissed or she wants to prove a point only to get herself into so much trouble that the hero has to come and rescue her?? Damn Vlad!!! Like I said before.. love/hate him!!!

It was breaking my heart how she slowly was falling for him and he would say "I can give you honesty, monogamy, and as much passion and you can handle... but I can't give you love!" BS man... and then she settles... that breaks my heart so much more than if he didn't offer her anything!!!

I know there's more books coming in this series... so we'll see Vlad and Leila's story continue, but this one just left me hanging... and hanging... and for a damn year I've got to hang... why do these authors do that... at least give me something... anything...

It was good, but thought it would end like most of her Cat and Bones books do... with a conclusion... but nope... so, until next year...

I adore Jeaniene Frost as an author. She has the gift of writing both likable characters and lively/funny dialogue. This is a great off shoot from her Night Huntress series and I'm happy that one of my favorite secondary characters is getting his own spotlight. I you're a fan of Whedon style humor and quips this is definitely for you.

Somehow Vlad the Impaler doesn't seem like a normal romantic hero,but Frost has taken one of the most notorious warlords in history and done just that.Leila Dalton has a unique ability thanks to surviving a lightning strike and Vlad needs her ability.

I loved Frankie' flawed but tough character. I thought her defense of those she cared for and who cared for her made her admirable. This Dracula saga makes Vladimir appear I durable arrogant and able to laugh at himself with Frankie. Loved the action and that Frankie was her own champion! Great read!

Wow what an exciting entrance to the Night Prince World. Once Burned is a fabulous beginning to this new series from Jeaniene Frost where we get a pass into the world of Vlad Tepesh, our favorite psychokinetic vampire from the Cat and Bones series. We are introduced to an entire new cast of riveting characters, one of which is our new favorite heroine, Leila. Leila "Frankie" Dalton is a freak of nature, with a lightning bolt scar from her face down her arm, but she is still a rare beauty. This strong creature not only has the power to shock you all to bits with her voltage, but with one touch she can find you. Which is exactly how she and Vlad come to meet.

Vlad, know for his cruel relentless tactics, is not easily surprised to find out that someone is out to kill him. But this time Vlad is shocked, as he comes to Leila's rescue, that this rare woman has captured his fascination. He quickly finds out that her special ability is something that others would "kill to have" and finds that she is in need of his protection. And we all know Vlad "protects what is his." Leila, not easily swayed, is confused and thrown back by this tyrant who impales his people as punishment and doesn't bat an eye at reducing anyone to ash. She doesn't know whether to give him her heart or run for the hills. Her past haunts her and she fears that a future with Vlad could be just as haunting. At every turn she learns something new about this infuriating and passionate man. As she would say "I am so Googling 'Vlad Dracul' once this is all over. Wikipedia knows more about his past than I do."

We absolutely loved this book! We have had excessive conversations about Vlad and Leila. We have been spinning our wheels about the next step. Some people have written that they did not like the ending because it didn't wrap thing up like the Mencheries and Spade series did. But we loved it! It leaves so much open for speculation. What will come next? Will Leila become a vampire? If she does, who will turn her? Oh the possibilities. You have to read this book for what it is, a beginning, and oh boy what a great start! We highly recommend this book, but have one partial suggestion. Even though the book can stand on its own there are some points you may not understand unless you have read the Night Huntress series. We suggest you start with Cat and Bones and then move on to Vlad. We promise you won't be disappointed.

Happy Reading

~Kiki & Jules

P.S. Jeaniene Frost - We hope all your covers are as hot as this one. So drool worthy. We are so glad we didn't have a set vision of Vlad in our heads because we don't think we could have imagined that!!

I really loved this book. It was interesting and I had no idea where she was going with this. The descriptions of the main character's gift were well done and I was ecstatic to hear there was a sequel. If you like smart mouthed characters, alpha males and winding plots you have to try this book!

I'm already reading cranky reviews about this book with people saying there's no backstory to Leila's character. Uhhhhhh are you kidding? They delve more into her multitude of issues than any other character in ANY of the books. Cause damn, she's got issues!

First off, yes you probably should read most (or all) of the Cat & Bones series to truly appreciate Vlad as a character. I started this book already knowing I loved him, because he's dark, witty, intense even though he's so internal and ultra old and jaded. What I loved most about this book was seeing him actually connecting to someone on a physical level. He needs someone that stomps her feet and yells at him and doesn't do what he tells them to do...then again I think that's what all men need :P But honestly I think it brings a lot more fun out of him and its sweet to see he actually cares about someone besides himself (and his platonic relationships).

No spoilers...I loved the book and I liked it a lot more than the last Night Huntress book. So for all you Frost fans its a MUST READ!!!

This novel is AMAZING! if you have read the Night huntress series and loved Vlad then, you will really love him now!!! If you havent read the NH series and you want to read this novel, you'll be ok. it only has one scene with the characters from the NHS and if your reading this for the fist time its a great way to meet the characters!!!! I absolutly LOVED this book and cannot wait for Twice Tempted!!!!!!!

Thought this was a completely different series, and I suppose it is, but it also uses some of the plot laid out in Jeaniene Frost's other series. If you haven't read her other books, you can still enjoy this one, but it will just have spots where you are not sure why they are there or how they fit into this plot.