Marked By The Vampire (Purgatory) (Volume 2)

Olivia Maddox has made studying paranormal killers her life's work. So when she is given the opportunity to interview paranormal prisoners at the maximum security prison, Purgatory, she jumps at the chance. Only Olivia has no way of knowing what exactly she signed up for.

On her way to Purgatory she meets Shane. A very sexy, alpha vampire. However, the only problem is that Shane is a prisoner being transferred to the infamous prison Purgatory. But all is not what it seems and Olivia is slowly learning that fact.

I liked the character of Olivia. She seemed competent and didn't suffer from insta love. But what she did suffer from was head-in-sand-distressed-need-a-man-to-rescue-me syndrome. Which detracted from what would have been a strong leading female character. She has her own secrets and dark side. Ok fine, I can deal with that. As a matter of fact, I kinda like that. Her flaws gave her more depth and likability.

Now on to Shane. Yum! Shane is an alpha vampire. When I say alpha I mean ALPHA!!!!! I can't say much more about him without giving things way. But I will say Shane is the ultimate BAMF! If you ever find yourself at a maximum security paranormal prison Shane is the type of guy to have on your side.

I enjoyed reading this book. It was a quick fun read that satisfied my need for a paranormal romance. Marked by the Vampire is the second book in the Purgatory series. But fear not, it can be read as a stand alone novel.

It's a dark, dangerous world these paras live in. Throwing the baddest of the bad into one confined space looks like a recipe for disaster. Sending Olivia into the heart of it looks like it will make a bad situation even worse. Especially once Shane catches her scent and will do anything to keep her safe.

Except, Olivia isn't as defenseless as she looks. She might not be able to physically match the vampires and werewolves in Purgatory, but she has her own set of strengths that keep her moving forward. Plus, Shane. He's kind of instrumental in keeping her safe.

Still, once Olivia unlocks her hidden side, she's more than a match for those who come up against her.

If only a hidden faction within the paras wasn't trying to use her for their own gain. Heck, there are a slew of different sides looking to tap into Olivia's skills. Honestly, she doesn't have a whole lot of people she can trust. And sometimes the people she thinks she CAN trust are exactly the ones she shouldn't be.

Paranormal worlds are tricky like that, aren't they?

Dark, dangerous, and sexy all rolled into one. I like.

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

Wow, whan an action packed read. Loved that. It can also be read as a stand alone.

What happens in short is that both H and h go to Purgatory (prison for paranormals) and they instantly feel attracted to each other. While being there, h becomes a living target, basically everyone wants to kill or use her and H becomes her protector and savior (till the end). After they escape from the island, h is being held prisoner by H and the agency he works for because SPOILER she's a genie but she didn't know that before and she has this insane power that could end the world, if used wrongly END SPOILER, also the danger is not over.

Many secrets get revealed, lots of betrayal, action, heartbreak, romace and in the end we still get our HEA.

What bothered me is the constant betrayal from everyone and were it me, I'd be long done with them. Also SPOILER since h is a genie and she can wish for anything, why not just wish for the bad guys to simply drop dead and be done with it? She's waaaay too forgiving in my book. END SPOILER

All in all is Marked by the Vampire enjoyable read that I'd recomend.

Action, intense danger, and some hot, hot sex makes this book a winner! I loved the main characters, Shane and Olivia. The sizzling chemistry between them was enough to fry an egg right on the top of my kindle. The exceptional emotional connection that is rolled together with an amazing world building and plot make for an awesome read. I hope to see some wonderful stories yet to be told in this gripping paranormal series with so many intriguing sub characters and their secrets. I look forward to them all.
One of my favorite quotes:

He just pulled her right back against him. “But our hearts beat. We breathe. We live. We need.”
Need. The word seemed to echo around them.
“There’s something that I need right now” he continued, his voice growing deeper, rougher, in the darkness. “Something I have to take.”
She pushed up but his hands were tight around her waist. “Shane?”

Now who wouldn't love to be talked to like that by a hot sexy powerful vampire? (swooning here)
While MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE could be read as a stand alone, I strongly recommend that you get the first installment THE WOLF WITHIN. You don’t want to miss out on anything and it too is an enjoyable book. Cynthia Eden is such a talented writer and she has got me hooked on her work.

This is the second in her Purgatory Series. I gave The Wolf Within 4 stars.

Dr. Olivia madden has a history which includes werewolf attack and a Ph.D. in criminal psychology. She's spent years working with the human serial killer population, but her motive for getting into Purgatory, the paranormal prison, is murky at best. Shane August is a vampire under cover working for the Para unit FBI to uncover the secrets on Purgatory, and his back-story and motives are even murkier.

Cynthia Eden has a few tropes she likes to go with, the insanely powerful heroine who doesn't exactly know what she is and what she can do. The morally ambiguous hero who is absolutely and often without reason devoted beyond measure, and the fated/insta-mate.

What makes this work for me is that the characters are fun, the action is nonstop, and the plot and the characters themselves are usually twisty and devious in the extreme. This particular book is well paced, with a clever twist on old and not much used paranormal character, and there was some real chemistry between Olivia and Shane.

While this can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the books in order because you will have a better sense of the characters as a whole. Solid 4 stars and I absolutely cannot wait for Connor's book next!

Marked by the Vampire by Cynthia Eden is paranormal romance with intense action and raw passion. You don't want to miss it! I can typically write a review right after I finish a book but I had to let this settle for a few days. It had me so twisted up I couldn't form the words I wanted to say about it! This is a book that you cannot put down. Cynthia writes in a way that there are no breaks in the story, so you can't just get to a low point and put it down. If there is not an action scene happening between the character there is a relationship developing between Shane and Olivia.

Marked by the Vampire is the second book in the Purgatory series and even better than the first. Cynthia is extremely talented at coming up with new and fascinating plots for her books and that is what keeps me coming back to her stories. We get to meet Shane, an undercover FBI agent in the Para Unit who also happens to be a vampire. He is sent to Purgatory to see what's going on down there because something isn't right. Olivia is a Psychologist and is drawn to Purgatory because she wants to understand why paranormals act on their evil instincts and how she can help them control those instincts. Things don't go so well for either Shane or Olivia in Purgatory.

The character development is fantastic in Marked by the Vampire. I loved how Shane and Olivia's relationship played out because you never quite knew if their physical attraction to one another was real or if they were controlling each other with some mind control/magic. The pull was just too great to ignore, though. Even though it may have been raw to begin with, you could still feel the underlying passion and trust between the two main characters. You felt hope that it was going to work out and Cynthia did not disappoint. Of course the intimacy was very dramatic and hot. Makes me want to be bitten by a vampire just to feel what Olivia felt. ;-)

The appearance of Duncan and Holly from the first book, The Wolf Within, was a welcome addition to the story. I love a series because you don't have to let go the characters you loved from previous books. I really can't say enough good things about Marked by the Vampire. If you like paranormal romance filled with suspense and passion, you need to read this book.

Well this is the second excursion into this series and Purgatory will never be the same.

Shane is an ancient vampire (might should be Ancient) who is on a mission, Olivia has gotten a plum assignment to interview some of the most violent horrible criminals ever to hit the earth and she thinks this is a great idea (it's not).

Cynthia Eden is becoming one of my favorite authors after her "Bound By" novels this series seems much more a combo of PNR/UF and a touch of Black-Ops thrown in and it works.

I am not sure where the overarching story is going (the one the series is named after ... Purgatory) but I am going to get right into the next book as soon as I get a chance.

Bottom Line: Had some minor misgivings but nothing to obsess about, the heroine could have used a bit of work, Shane was done great and the secondary characters were a bit more than 2 dimensional which is always a nice touch. 4 Stars and Highly Recommended and I will be moving right on to the just released Charming The Beast (Purgatory Book 3)

For 2.99 Buy the Book!!!!

Olivia Maddox just wanted to help mankind, as any good doctor should. Her case studies on killers were to help shed some light on if they killed purposely, was it a conscience decision? If she could study paranormal killers and find out their inner workings, could she help them stop the violence? If you want cut throat killers to study might as well start where they are all kept. Purgatory…. after practically begging to be sent to the only paranormal prison in the US, has she bit off more than she can chew?
Shane August is going straight to hell. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200. His assignment is to go deep cover infiltrate the vampire coven and report. Let’s just say that ship sails the moment Olivia falls right into his arms. She captures him from the moment he sets his eyes on her. Shane is bewildered why anyone let alone this magnificent creature would want to be locked up with the most violent paranormals captured. How is she going to last a month studying these prisoners if she’s almost killed the first day? After being thrown to the wolves (quite literally) it’s time Olivia took life into her own hands. Knowing Shane is her safest bet, where he goes she follows. As if she had a choice.
Marked by the Vampire is a sexy whirl wind adventure…right to Hell. This is the first Purgatory book I have read, I think having a literal Hell on Earth was a great concept. Seems as if the series is in its early stages’ with only Werewolves and Vampires in the mix, I’m silently praying for more. Cynthia Eden holds nothing back with the love story between the 2,000 year old Vampire and his wish granting love interest. Terrific spin on wishful thinking, the idea where your every heart’s desire every wish you think up can go terribly wrong and nothing is guaranteed. Love that dark-sided thinking. Things that standout in this book and set it apart from other paranormal books is the good guys do bad things to make humankind safe. Meaning, even the heroes have to get their hands dirty. One moment you are running to them for safety the next you could be looking at an eternity locked up by them. The line gets blurry and that to me is fantastic. Lots of Grey areas. I was definitely intrigued by some of the characters in this book, with their motivation for helping is to make amends for past transgressions. I personally like the idea that each of them has that darkness, that eternal struggle…which in essence makes them human so to speak. The other thing is that really keeps me coming back to Cynthia Eden’s books is the Sex! No really, her bedroom play is always creative and not rushed. I mean they are adult romance books right?! But the finesse that is shown to make it hot, sexy and not raunchy should be mentioned. I look forward to reading the book before this one and the ones to follow, they can most definitely be read as a stand alone, but where is the fun in that!

I received this for an honest review~

I am always amazed at how Cynthia Eden can publish so many books and they all be top-notch. Can you imagine the thoughts spinning around in her mind? She’s so creative and her stories are always original. Her talent is mind-boggling. In Marked By The Vampire, Eden wins me again, showing she knows her way with words. I’ve yet to be disappointed by her, and the second Purgatory book is one of her best.

Shane was introduced in book one as working for Eric Pate in the FBI Para Unit as an undercover vampire. He was left on Purgatory, the supernatural equivalent to Alcatraz, as a spy trying to unearth the truth concerning what was happening behind closed doors. Being one of the eldest vampires in existence, his superior strength and natural skills made him a prime investigator for the secret mission.

Olivia Maddox has her own set of demons. As a PhD in criminal psychology, she’s made her goal to find out why people decide to become evil. She had studied some of the United States top criminals, psychopaths, and serial killers in search for the hidden truth. Was becoming a paranormal monster the same as the light switching in a human that had turned to their dark side? Why did some live side by side with humans and others lose control to their other nature? Determined to find the answers, Olivia becomes the psychologist for the incarcerated paranormals on Purgatory, unknown to her the trouble the staff are having at the island.

Shane and Olivia immediately feel a connection, and Shane has the strong desire to protect her from the evil that lurks on the island. When the werewolf convicts seize control of the facility, Shane must fight to keep her safe, unleashing desires in himself and a darkness Olivia has tried to keep hidden. Will their differences become similarities?

Bringing in the criminal mind and the sickness that can plague their thoughts, turning them into something dark, brought a whole new light to Eden’s writings. I always enjoy how she has a little bit of science in her paranormal books, spinning the supernatural world with a laboratory full of genius. She alone was the author to inspire me to reach for my dreams and write what circled my inner thoughts. Cynthia Eden’s works are thought-provoking, yet full of hot and sexy moments, creating a pendulum between scenes that will leave the readers holding their breaths.

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Most humans don't realize that paranormals exist, but Dr. Olivia Maddox does. She survived a werewolf attack when she was a teenager. Today Olivia profiles killers; she wants to know why they kill and what makes them tick. Olivia has seen how humans can be monsters, and now she is getting her chance to research the real monsters. Purgatory is a prison for paranormals, and Olivia has one month there to learn what drives some of them to kill when others live peacefully among humans. Shane is a vampire working undercover in Purgatory. His attraction for Olivia is evident at first sight, and her feelings begin to grow for him as well. What they don't know is that by being together they are potentially a very dark and dangerous pair.

Olivia has secrets that run even deeper than what she is aware of. There is a reason she is attracted to the monsters, but she can't place just why that is. I liked her character because of its complexity. Shane is sexy as hell, but that isn't the only thing the vampire has going for him. He is ancient and powerful. He exerts raw charisma and I wanted more of him. Both characters balance the line of good and evil which really heightens their appeal.

Eden weaves an exciting story! It was passionate and exciting. I liked the action and the twists in the novel. What struck me most however, is the fine line the characters had to walk to stay on the side that is morally right. She showed the reader that what you see isn't always black and white. Marked by the Vampire is the second book in the Purgatory series. I am really sorry that I missed the first book, but it did stand well on its own. If you are looking for a new paranormal series to read take a trip into Purgatory.

**Reviewed by Teresa D. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**

Title: Marked by the Vampire

Series: Purgatory Series Book #2

Author: Cynthia Eden

Genre: Paranormal

Blurb: Vampires exist. So do werewolves. The creatures that you fear in the darkness? They’re all real. And the baddest of the paranormals…those who love to hurt humans…they’re sent to Purgatory, the only paranormal prison in the U.S.
His job is to stop the monsters...Deadly forces are at work within Purgatory. The monsters are joining together—and their plans have to be stopped. FBI Agent Shane August, a very powerful vampire with a dark past, is sent into the prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary.

She wants to help the prisoners...Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. What pushes some vampires over the edge? Why do some werewolves turn so savage? If she can understand the monsters, then Olivia thinks she can help them. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Olivia believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime. Olivia doesn’t realize that she’s walking straight into hell.

To survive, they have to rely on each other...When the prisoners break loose, there is only one person—one vampire—who can protect her, but as Olivia and Shane fight the enemies that surround them, a dark and dangerous passion stirs to life between the doctor and the vamp. Shane realizes that Olivia is a woman carrying secrets—powerful, sinful secrets. Secrets that a man would kill to possess. And Olivia realizes that—sometimes—you can’t control the beast inside of you. No matter how hard you try. Some passions can push you to the very limits of your control…and the growing lust that she feels for her vampire…it’s sending her racing right into a deadly storm of desire.

Welcome to Purgatory…a place that’s a real hell on earth…

Thoughts: This book caught my attention from the very first because of its original take on the paranormal genre. I love paranormal, but the genre can become a little stale, so it's always interesting to read something a little different. From page one, I was hooked....the sparks flying between Olivia and Shane were apparent at their first meeting - when he's secretly undercover as 'criminal' being transferred to Purgatory, a prison specifically designed for paranormal creatures. He's a super sexy, bad ass vampire that exudes everything we want from an alpha male. Olivia - a psychologist looking to find out insights into the brain behind criminal paranormal inmates - is eager to attain access to Purgatory....little does she know though, that she may belong more with the 'monsters' than she originally thought. When she becomes more of a threat than any other species, can she and Shane find a way to be together - and to keep her from falling in to the hands of others who would use our powers for evil?

Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
[...]

For different reasons, they will both enter Purgatory and what begins there will change both their lives forever. Will that be a bad thing or a good thing? The only chance they have will be to rely on each other as the danger comes from every direction…even from within in this thrilling paranormal romance.

This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes with lots of suspense, action, drama and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that inspire vivid images and captures the imagination and the well orchestrated suspense and action scenes draw the reader deeper into the story making them feel as if they are right in the middle of all the action. The characters are strong, compelling, easily understood, mysterious and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning and spine tingling tension builds throughout the story as the danger escalates and more information is revealed about a conspiracy from an unsuspected source.

The attraction between Shane and Olivia radiates extreme heat from every page and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but relationship is a roller coaster ride of emotional ups and downs that keep the reader on the edge of their seats. Olivia just wants to know makes the monsters tick… humans and paranormals alike and the reader can’t help but be intrigued with the mysterious young doctor who has such hidden depths that even she doesn’t understand what it means. Shane is an ancient vampire that is sent in undercover to find the corruption inside Purgatory and finds himself blowing his cover to protect her powerful secrets even as the passion stirs between them.

Cynthia Eden has once again created a fantastic paranormal world with intriguing and fascinating elements and captivating characters that enthralls readers and ensures that they can’t put the book down until they have read the very last word. This story is an action packed and entertaining read from beginning to end and I can’t wait for the next one.

Marked by the Vampire is book two in Cynthia Eden’s Purgatory Series. I could gush for several paragraphs about this author’s awesomeness, but I don’t want to bore you.

”Better be careful,” ... “You don't know what waits in the darkness.”

I am not a huge PNR reader (although I seem to be ploughing through them lately), but when I see a Cynthia Eden book on Netgalley now, I don’t even read the synopsis before hitting the ‘request’ button. I don't need to know what the book is about to know that I will enjoy it; she is just that type of writer for me. I have a few others that I class as ‘no-brainers’ but if you asked me who my go-to author for romantic suspense is, Cynthia Eden is most likely to be the first name I would throw at you.

”Why do people think,” ... “That vampires are cold?”...
“Because the movies say we’re dead. The dead are cold. The dead don’t have hearts that beat” ... “They say we have no passion.”... “But our hearts beat. We breathe. We live. We need.”

Firstly, I would recommend that you read book one in the Purgatory series, The Wolf Within as although each of the books features around a different couple, there is an underlying story running through. Think of the F.B.I for paranormal disturbances if you will Shane is a Vampire who works with Eric Pate, in containing and removing threat to human life from Vampires, Werewolves and other non-human forms. If taken alive they are then sent to Purgatory Prison.

There are some serious issues with the running of Purgatory, what with the inmates killing each other, and management seemingly encouraging it, as well as a potential uprising and possible escape attempt. Shane is sent in undercover to try and find out what and who is the mastermind behind the unrest.

”You’re dead” ... “Undead is the correct term, jackass. Get it right.”

Unfortunately, Shane didn’t figure the inclusion of Dr. Olivia Maddox on the staff roster for the prison, and she brings out all sorts of over-protective feelings in him, feelings he hasn’t felt in decades...

”I won’t let anyone hurt you. Any who comes after you – human, vamp, werewolf – they’ll have to go through me first.”

Olivia is keeping a few secrets of her own, and once again Cynthia gives us another likeable and kick-ass heroine. I loved the verbal sparring between the two of them, as well as the scorching hot sexy-times.

I want to keep her with me forever.
I just found her. I’m not prepared to let her go.
I need to make her love me.

”Love, I like the way you taste.”

Once again, and as I have come to expect, the story doesn't quite go the way you expect, Cynthia is a master when it comes to throwing the plot completely off course, but in the right direction at the same time. And I love that I never know 100% where the story and the characters are going to end up!

I cannot wait for Connor’s book – Charming The Beast, which is due for release later this year, as this series has grabbed me now, and I am dying to know where Cynthia is going to take the story next.

ARC supplied via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.

Contemporary, Paranormal, Washington State

Shane August is an FBI Agent that is also a very powerful vampire with a dark past. He is sent to a prison for an undercover assignment. It is his job to infiltrate the vampire clan any way he can. It’s his job to stop the monsters that live among the humans. There are deadly forces working within Purgatory, the only prison in the U.S. that is made to keep the paranormals confined.

Dr. Olivia Maddox is determined to find out why some paranormals go bad and others keep control. Why some vampires are pushed over the edge and why some werewolves turn savage. Olivia thinks she can help them if she can just understand them. When she is given permission to enter Purgatory she thinks she is getting the opportunity of a lifetime. What she doesn’t know that she is actually walking straight into hell.

Shane and Olivia’s only chance at survival is to depend on each other. Olivia’s only chance at surviving the prisoners that have broken loose is one vampire. Shane is the only one that can protect her. While they fight the enemies surrounding them a dangerous passion comes to life between them. Shane realizes that there is more to the doctor than he first thought. She is a woman with powerful sinful secrets that she has been is carrying around. Secrets that a man will kill to possess.

Olivia soon realizes that sometimes you can’t control the beast inside you. No matter how hard you try. There are some passions that can push you to the limits of your control. The lust she feels growing inside her for her vampire is sending her straight into a deadly storm of desire.

This is proving to be an excellent series. The characters are complex and intriguing and pull the reader right into the story. While so far the stories prove to hold up on their own they are much better read as a series as things that happen in the first book show up in the second and the reader has a better understanding of what is happening in the series by reading all the books. This one wraps up nicely but leaves enough to easily have more books in the series. The world building is great and will have readers wishing that this world was real. It is dark and edgy and full of action. With enough suspense woven into it that it will keep readers guessing as to what the characters secrets are and just what will happen next. It is also a relatively quick read that makes for a wonderful break from the real world.

MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is the second instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult Purgatory paranormal series. Purgatory is an island prison for the supernatural-those that cannot be controlled. This is Dr. Olivia Maddox and FBI Agent Shane August’s storyline. Although this is the second in the series, MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone. Some of the previous storyline characters play secondary roles and any information from the prior story is imparted where necessary.

Told from third person POV the story follows Olivia Maddox as she has gained access to Purgatory to further her research surrounding the darkest of the supernatural powers. But Olivia has a secret-one that if discovered or released-will place everyone in danger. So to add to her protection, vampire and Para Unit specialist Shane August is sent in undercover only to realize a little too late that they have both ‘literally’ been thrown to the wolves. Someone knows about Olivia’s true identity and is hoping that Purgatory will keep her under control.

The attraction between Shane and Olivia is immediate. They have a connection that can only be called fated and in this Shane is determined to protect Olivia at all costs-even if it means taking out everyone who threatens the woman he believes to be his mate.

The secondary characters include many of the previous storyline characters as well as a new cast of villains who are on the hunt for the ultimate in supernatural powers. The storyline is well paced; the suspense and mystery will keep the reader on the edge of their seat-and in the end-there was very little difference between good and evil. Trust must be earned and very little is earned throughout the story. Needless to say, Olivia had some major issues of trust, especially when she found herself imprisoned by the very people who had promised to keep her safe.

Cynthia Eden writes an exciting and intense story with all the hallmarks of a paranormal mystery-the reader is never sure just who is the bad guy; who is the betrayer; and who can be trusted with your life. Life in Purgatory is hell, but working with the Para Unit is like working for the Devil-himself.

This is the second book in the Purgatory series and although I would advise reading the first book if you are a werewolf fan it's not essential as this story is easy to read as a standalone . Ths author has such an incredible imagination that I personally would recommend any of her books but for me it's her paranormals that hold a place dear to my heart. This particular book simply blew me away as not only is it a fantastically unique idea but the execution is just damned sexy! Pick up this book and be prepared to need a cold shower !
Olivia has the job she always wanted and now her latest assignment will hopefully see her getting the answers she needs. In a world were paranormals live amongst humans the most dangerous and bloodthirsty are captured and incarcerated at a top security prison known as Purgatory. Olivia knows that her job of interviewing and trying to find out why some can control their inner beasts better than others will be unpleasent but she's not aware of just how much danger she's truly putting herself in!
Shane is a vampire but he works for an agency that brings the rogues to justice. Purgatory has been failing and it's his job to go in undercover and discover just how deep the rot and corruption go. From the moment he sets eyes on Olivia he knows that she's someone special and his urge to protect her is only matched by his overriding desire to explore her intimately!When Shane's worst fears come true and Olivia's life becomes threatened he needs all his hard won control to get her out alive without tasting her! Olivia thought life couldn't get much worse but she's about to find out that sometimes you get more than you ever wished for!
I absolutely loved this book! It's everything I want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Great storyline and I thought the idea of an Alcatraz style prison for Supernaturals really worked . A fast paced plot with very strong characters that came to life on the page and a twist that had me guessing just who or what one of the characters was! This book was sexy and fun and I can't wait to read more. Most definitely recommended

Marked By The Vampire, Cynthia Eden
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews

I've read several of Cynthia's books now, so I know I enjoy her classic, succinct writing style. All story, no waffling! This one is paranormal ( its that vampire bit in the title that gives it away – yes?) and was a fun read.
To begin with we're given a clue that some people aren't exactly what they seem, and that there is clearly some uncover/underhanded work going on. That fits in with much of Cynthia's novels that I've enjoyed, they have that suspense element and she does that really well, keeping me guessing exactly whats happeneing. So it was with this one, til it got to the point where I was wondering just what and who was going to be revealed next...dealing and double dealing, people who were working for others and not the side I expected, all wrapped up with some danger, violence, and sexy, sensual sex....A great mix.
I liked Shane right from the start, and it was clear that he was in Purgatory for reasons other than what were given, but I didn't know who else was in on that, and what he was actually there for. Olivia seemed a troubled person, seeking to find out what made killers act as they did, but she didn't fit the usual “do-gooders” mould, and wasn't afraid of danger – til she reached Purgatory where the danger wasn't just the usual from interviewing dangerous prisoners, but had the added addition of someone – or maybe several someones – flipping and messing with the safety measures. Why, who, when and where was the next danger coming from. It's a novel full of suspense and danger and some vivid surprises, but with a perfect ending. Its the second in a series, I've not read the first but that was fine, as it seems each is a standalone, but with connected characters so it's the sort I like, where novels are complete but integrated with each other and carrying an overall story arc. I look forward to more.
Stars: Four – a fun read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley.

MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE is the second instalment in Cynthia Eden’s contemporary, adult Purgatory paranormal series. Purgatory is an island prison for the supernatural-those that cannot be controlled. This is Dr. Olivia Maddox and FBI Agent Shane August’s storyline. Although this is the second in the series, MARKED BY THE VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone. Some of the previous storyline characters play secondary roles and any information from the prior story is imparted where necessary.

Told from third person POV the story follows Olivia Maddox as she has gained access to Purgatory to further her research surrounding the darkest of the supernatural powers. But Olivia has a secret-one that if discovered or released-will place everyone in danger. So to add to her protection, vampire and Para Unit specialist Shane August is sent in undercover only to realize a little too late that they have both ‘literally’ been thrown to the wolves. Someone knows about Olivia’s true identity and is hoping that Purgatory will keep her under control.

The attraction between Shane and Olivia is immediate. They have a connection that can only be called fated and in this Shane is determined to protect Olivia at all costs-even if it means taking out everyone who threatens the woman he believes to be his mate.

The secondary characters include many of the previous storyline characters as well as a new cast of villains who are on the hunt for the ultimate in supernatural powers. The storyline is well paced; the suspense and mystery will keep the reader on the edge of their seat-and in the end-there was very little difference between good and evil. Trust must be earned and very little is earned throughout the story. Needless to say, Olivia had some major issues of trust, especially when she found herself imprisoned by the very people who had promised to keep her safe.

Cynthia Eden writes an exciting and intense story with all the hallmarks of a paranormal mystery-the reader is never sure just who is the bad guy; who is the betrayer; and who can be trusted with your life. Life in Purgatory is hell, but working with the Para Unit is like working for the Devil-himself.

This is the second book in the Purgatory series and although I would advise reading the first book if you are a werewolf fan it's not essential as this story is easy to read as a standalone . Ths author has such an incredible imagination that I personally would recommend any of her books but for me it's her paranormals that hold a place dear to my heart. This particular book simply blew me away as not only is it a fantastically unique idea but the execution is just damned sexy! Pick up this book and be prepared to need a cold shower !
Olivia has the job she always wanted and now her latest assignment will hopefully see her getting the answers she needs. In a world were paranormals live amongst humans the most dangerous and bloodthirsty are captured and incarcerated at a top security prison known as Purgatory. Olivia knows that her job of interviewing and trying to find out why some can control their inner beasts better than others will be unpleasent but she's not aware of just how much danger she's truly putting herself in!
Shane is a vampire but he works for an agency that brings the rogues to justice. Purgatory has been failing and it's his job to go in undercover and discover just how deep the rot and corruption go. From the moment he sets eyes on Olivia he knows that she's someone special and his urge to protect her is only matched by his overriding desire to explore her intimately!When Shane's worst fears come true and Olivia's life becomes threatened he needs all his hard won control to get her out alive without tasting her! Olivia thought life couldn't get much worse but she's about to find out that sometimes you get more than you ever wished for!
I absolutely loved this book! It's everything I want in a paranormal romance and so much more. Great storyline and I thought the idea of an Alcatraz style prison for Supernaturals really worked . A fast paced plot with very strong characters that came to life on the page and a twist that had me guessing just who or what one of the characters was! This book was sexy and fun and I can't wait to read more. Most definitely recommended

Marked By The Vampire, Cynthia Eden
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews

I've read several of Cynthia's books now, so I know I enjoy her classic, succinct writing style. All story, no waffling! This one is paranormal ( its that vampire bit in the title that gives it away – yes?) and was a fun read.
To begin with we're given a clue that some people aren't exactly what they seem, and that there is clearly some uncover/underhanded work going on. That fits in with much of Cynthia's novels that I've enjoyed, they have that suspense element and she does that really well, keeping me guessing exactly whats happeneing. So it was with this one, til it got to the point where I was wondering just what and who was going to be revealed next...dealing and double dealing, people who were working for others and not the side I expected, all wrapped up with some danger, violence, and sexy, sensual sex....A great mix.
I liked Shane right from the start, and it was clear that he was in Purgatory for reasons other than what were given, but I didn't know who else was in on that, and what he was actually there for. Olivia seemed a troubled person, seeking to find out what made killers act as they did, but she didn't fit the usual “do-gooders” mould, and wasn't afraid of danger – til she reached Purgatory where the danger wasn't just the usual from interviewing dangerous prisoners, but had the added addition of someone – or maybe several someones – flipping and messing with the safety measures. Why, who, when and where was the next danger coming from. It's a novel full of suspense and danger and some vivid surprises, but with a perfect ending. Its the second in a series, I've not read the first but that was fine, as it seems each is a standalone, but with connected characters so it's the sort I like, where novels are complete but integrated with each other and carrying an overall story arc. I look forward to more.
Stars: Four – a fun read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley.

ARC gifted through Net galley in exchange for an honest review.
We are introduced to this world where Vampires and Werewolves exist, when one of them if they kill or can’t control their urges they are sent to Purgatory, a prison for the paranormal. Dr. Olivia Maddox has worked to help and understand those criminals on what makes them kill others, now she wants to help these paranormal beings, on what makes them slaughter. With some help; she is allowed to interview criminals at the Purgatory facility for one month. Purgatory is located on its own island and Olivia must travel on boat, upon boarding the boat, she is surprised by traveling with a new inmate, a Vampire. Shane is not your ordinary vampire, he is working undercover for the Para Unit, his mission is to figure out the corruption happening in the prison and who is behind it, but Shane is in trouble. He is attracted to Olivia and needs to protect her. Olivia, also, has a few secrets. When all hell breaks loose in Purgatory, she has no one to trust to help get her out but Shane. Things get very and I mean very hot between them. Next, things go from bad to worse for Olivia; a lot of things come out in the open, many revelations, she has to deal with a lot, but she stayed strong and was smart. I loved Shane, he was a badass character, and he truly was all about Olivia. Very good love scenes between them, and that last one…
WOW!!

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I haven’t had the opportunity to read the first one in this series but definitely will!! Loved the Cover, I recommend this book and series to anyone who loves Sexy, badass Vampire and Werewolves with action and very steamy love scenes!!!!

FBI Agent Shane August is sent into Purgatory prison on an undercover assignment. His job is to infiltrate the vampire clan, by any means necessary. Dr. Olivia Maddox wants to find out just why certain paranormals go bad. When she gets permission to enter Purgatory, Oliva believes she is being given the research opportunity of a lifetime. When there is a prison break, to survive Olivia and Shane must rely on each other.

A sexually charged story full of action. Emotions run high among the members of the team as well as between Shane and Olivia. When faced with the truth of what and who is behind the prison break, Olivia finds it difficult to absorb the truth and has to work through all of the emotions of trust and betrayal.

The love scenes are steamy and hit you when you least expect them to-which I think is a nice surprise. The romance is interwoven throughout the action and flows naturally. I really enjoyed this story. It is a quick read.

I received an ARC through Netgalley and this is my honest review.

Shane is an ancient vampire FBI agent sent undercover to Purgatory, a prison set up for paranormals, to infiltrate the resident clan of vampires there. Olivia is a psychiatrist that specializes in killers. She manages to pull strings to get into Purgatory to study the worst of the worst. She wants to learn why they turn bad, what pushes them over the edge into evilness. But Olivia has ulterior motives for wanting to study the monsters, she has a darkness inside of her that she wants to know how to control. She's worried that it may slip her grip one day and she may turn into one of the monsters herself.

The attraction between Shane and Olivia is instantaneous and right from the beginning the suspense starts. As soon as the they get to Purgatory "accidents" seem to happen around Olivia. After a massive prison break it's obvious someone knows something about Olivia's secret and wants to use her for their own purposes.

Shane is determined to protect her. He has claimed her but others have decided that she is too dangerous to live. I won't give out anymore details because I don't want to spoil the story but this is one of the reasons why I love Cynthia Eden so much. The twists and turns, the imagery, attraction, suspense and action is non stop. It's a roller coaster ride of emotions, especially the last half of the book. This was another great book in the Purgatory series and I am eagerly awaiting more!

*I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley for my honest review

Although it's been a little while since the first book in the Purgatory series came out I had no trouble at all jumping right back into the action and plot.
Readers don't have to read the first book to love this one, but you won't want to miss it because Cynthia Eden is just that good!
Taut action, a high steam factor and wonderful emotion pepper the pages of this latest offering and it was just the right length to tell the story without drawing out needless scenes or cutting things too short.

Dr. Olivia Maddox is able to trade on connections to find her way onto Purgatory. A high security prison island for paranormals that have gone bad. She is compelled to find out why some are at the mercy of their 'beasts' and why they cannot control themselves. She wants to help them and she has a lot at stake in finding out the answers.
Things quickly go awry when she finds that she has been targeted and forces are conspiring to make sure she doesn't make it out of Purgatory alive.

Shane is a very powerful, very bad vampire. A prisoner bound for Purgatory, he and Olivia first meet while sharing the transport to the island prison. Olivia knows he is a dangerous temptation but finds herself unwillingly drawn to him.
Both are at the mercy of an explosive attraction that quickly burns out of control when the threat to Olivia's life becomes apparent.

On an island full of dangerous and powerful criminals Olivia will have to count on Shane to make it out alive.
However, all is not as it seems and the real danger may still be waiting...

ebook kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed Marked by the Vampire! It wasn't perfect but it had just enough action in it to distract me.

What did I like so much about this book:

1) There wasn't too much time spent on world building. Perhaps this was because it was done in the first book (which I haven't read), but I doubt that's the reason because this book can be read as a standalone. The point is that I don't particularly enjoy being bogged down in the details of some of the more intricate world building that I've seen in some other paranormal books. It can be timely and take you out of the story. Here, things were straightforward and simple.

2) It was a quick read that allowed for a brief escape. I can get pretty busy and stressed between work and school and sometimes I need to take a break from it all. But there's only so much time that can be allowed for that and this book fits perfectly into that time slot.

3) I liked Shane's character. The alpha was strong with this one.

What I felt could have used a little work:

1) Olivia was neither likable or dislikable; she didn't leave much of an impression on me.

2) Other than the fact that they were physically compatible, I didn't really see the basis for Shane and Olivia's relationship. Did they enjoy each others' personalities?

Cynthia Eden's work makes for a great escape and I'm looking forward to reading more from her!

Cynthia Eden is an automatic not even read the blurb one click when I want an easy hot alpha read, be it her contemporary or paranormal books. While to a certain extent you know what you’re going to get her writing is such that you just don’t care.

This new Purgatory Series has the best of both worlds – vamps and shifters which as a parawhore I love. Reading is always an escape and Cynthia Eden takes you to a world you half wish existed because, as violent and harsh as it may be, these men and their stories are the stuff that fills our dreams.

The Wolf Within (Purgatory 1) and Marked by the Vampire both have fabulous alpha male leads but unfortunately in both books their female partners I found sadly lacking. A little whiney, a little weak and needing a good shake to find their backbone! Despite the awesome yumminess that is Shane, and the usual hot chemistry and sex that you know will be delivered, this was tempered down by the annoying Olivia with her ‘damsel in distress but it’s ok I know my man will rescue me’ attitude. While we know he will I like a little self-preservation and strength in my heroines.

Don`t let my annoyance with Olivia put you off though because this is still a good read, just not her best. I will read the next instalment and am interested to see what happens with Connor as I do love a tortured werewolf!

This series is really getting interesting. I love how Cynthia takes us into the paranormal and criminal world all at once. She's also brought into the picture a paranormal that really doesn't get much page time with most writers. SO it's full of action, suspense and it's HOT :)!

We begin shortly after purgatory (a prison island) has had the breach and a new warden and crew have been instated. Shane is going in undercover to find out who has set the Para unit and purgatory up to fail. Dr. Olivia Maddox is a human that has been studying serial killers to find out why they kill. She has been given special clearance to go to purgatory and interview the inmates to find out what makes them tick. Pate warns her that if she gets into trouble to look for the dragon.

On the boat ride to the island Olivia comes face to face with Shane who is cuffed as a prisoner transport. It's instant attraction on both parts even if she is a bit afraid of him. A storm brews and they're tossed around a bit and Olivia thinks she sees a dragon wing tattoo on Shane's wrist.

Olivia interviews Shane and he tries to hint to her to be careful. Her next interview with a werewolf goes Very bad and things just get worse.

Great read. Looking forward to the next installment :).

**copy provided through NetGalley**
I’m so glad I’ve found this series. After receiving this copy I purchased and read the first book in the series, The Wolf Within. I enjoyed that book and was really excited about starting MBTV. While in this installment we follow Shane and Olivia, it’s a continuation of the story left open at the end of TWW. Both Shane and Olivia are in Purgatory, one as a Doctor and the other as a prisoner. Shortly after their arrival, all hell breaks loose. While both Duncan and Shane are strong and fearless characters there is just something so damn sexy about Shane and the way he carries himself. I think what I love most about this series is how immersed in the story I get. I almost forget I’m reading a book. It’s fast moving, full of action, romance and mystery….Now let’s bring on CONNOR!!

- “I’ve seen countries rise and fall. Watched more death and pain than you can imagine.”….”I didn’t think there was any pleasure left for me here, then I looked up on a storm-tossed ferry, and I saw her.”

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Yes, it’s another vampire/werewolf/paranormal book; however, I couldn’t put it down! I can promise you it’s nothing like Twilight. There’s no love triangles, frustrations, etc. This book is very straight forward at fast pace. Apparently, this book is a series but you don’t have to read them in order. The only thing linking the books together is the characters, however it’s about a different character every time.

You begin reading and you quickly become intrigued with the main characters, Shane August and Olivia Maddox. Shane is an agent who is undercover, while Olivia is a doctor who wants to help analyze prisoners, doesn’t sound complicated, right? Well, apparently Shane and Olivia aren’t really what they appear to be. Right from the start, you know there’s something about Shane. He’s not really the bad guy and now his mission has gone from uncovering secrets to protecting Olivia. However, he might still end up having to uncover a few secrets along the way. Starting with Olivia. Is she really who she appears to be?

The connection that appears between them might just be more than lust, so much more. Yet, so dangerous. But, it’s a risk they are going to have to take because Shane can’t seem to want to be without Olivia. She’s his new addiction. I couldn’t help but root for these two, I love the passion between them. (steamy love scenes) ;]

This is the kind of story that totally catches you by surprise. It’s filled with twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat. You think you might have an idea as to what will happen next, but trust me, you don’t. I probably won’t read the first or the next one to this story, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t like it. In fact, I loved this story!!! I finished it all in one sitting. This book made me want to laugh, smile, swoon, etc. I recommend you all to give this story a chance!

I really enjoyed this story and I didn’t realize it was part of a series so I am definitely planning on reading the first installment. The synopsis is very detailed and gives readers a good idea about the book. There is action, suspense and subterfuge wrapped around this steamy paranormal romance. Cynthia Eden is a masterfully diversified storyteller and I always look forward to reading her brilliantly crafted worlds. Every book is a delightful adventure and I highly recommend any of her books!

***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***

Full of vampires, demons, shifters, and more, this book takes you for a fast-paced ride into romance, suspense, and action. The alpha males are strong, sexy, and protective of their mates, and the alpha females can take care of themselves, mostly. The hero and heroine, Shane and Olivia make an outstanding team for the secret paranormal prison, aptly named Purgatory.

The action is fast, the sex hot, and the book fascinating.

4,5 stars for this amazing story! The only problema with it is being so short.

The first half of the novel was so thrilling! Every scene with Shane was so amazing! He's so strong, so powerful, nothing and no one stops him and he's so, so caught with Olivia. This is a hot couple! The second half of the novel was more interesting, with every one trying to figure out what Olivia is and the enemies pursuing them. What a thrill!

I enjoyed so much all the story about the paranormals, in a simple way, it's all so fascinating.

I'm so anxious to read more in this series!

I love vampire romances! This is my first by this author, and I liked it. The heroine was pretty and smart and ambitious. The hero was handsome and sexy and strong. They had great chemistry. I liked the author's writing style. The only thing keeping this book from being great was a little more depth to the characters and the storyline. I'll definitely read another one in the series!

This book was OMG -awesome!! From the first page I could tell Cynthia was not going to play with Marked By the Vampire.

So let's see what I can tell you without giving anything away. First off is the female lead, Dr. Olivia Maddox. She is a professor and she specializes in serial killers. We know she suffered a childhood event that has her determined to study killers of the paranormal ilk and find out why they snap and kill innocents. What better place to do this than Purgatory, an uber secure prison for paras. Olivia is in denial or mostly unaware of a great many things about her past, her self and those she believes she can trust. So, knowledge is power, and what you don't know can totally ruin your day.

Now we have Shane, who is a vampire, but a very SPECIAL vampire. He is at the top of the food chain and is immediately drawn to the secretive Dr. He knows she is hiding something but hasn't ever run across her scent before. He also knows that everybody and their grandparents are gunning for Olivia and he is going to protect her know matter who has to die.

My goodness, there are so many secrets and betrayals going on in this book that you really need a score card to keep them all straight. There are also some highly unusual beings coming into play. Nobody is a straight up anything in Marked by the Vampire. Talk about a melting pot, you would need a Nobel prize winning chemist to sort out this DNA mixture. But the best chemistry going on is between Shane and Olivia. Cynthia was feeling her oats when she wrote their love scenes. It practically shorted out my kindle! (or maybe that was my sweaty palms) I can say without reservation that this is probably my favorite Cynthia Eden book to date and I have read ALL of Cynthia's many, many wonderful books, so that is a STRONG statement. I read the slightly under two hundred pages twice in one morning (although really, this is definitely a bedtime book!) just to make sure I loved it and was not just having morning mind. Nope, it was even better the second time because I wasn't reading so fast to find out what happens. You really, really REALLY need to read this book!! Excellent job, Ms. Eden, bravissima!

I would seriously let that vamp bite me, anytime, anywhere. I thought Duncan was amazing, but Shane blows him outta the water. Pate still drives me crazy, lol. Still not sure about him. But, back to Shane, because I love him. I'm glad he got his own story here. He deserved it, and Cynthia did a great job telling it. I'm glad she is continuing this series, because it's great. Can't wait to read Conner's story

wow i totally loved this book once i started there was no putting it down i fell in love with Shane and Olivia from the start the action and drama kept me hooked all the way through and even though this is book 2 in the series it can be read as a stand alone but i will be making sure i go back and read book 1

This story had me hooked from the first page. Shane was a totally alpha hero with a wicked sense of humor. He was also very hot. Olivia held her own as the heroine. Lots of action and sizzling heat. Ms. Eden (who I am a big fan of) has another winner. Absolutely loved it.

What an awesome paranormal read! I love the setting of the story. It is different, and hooked me immediately. The writing is brilliant and captivating. I also really enjoyed a new paranormal character that I hadnt heard of before. This has all the ingredients to a perfect read for me. A dominant hero, a strong heroine, sex without over kill, and twists! I will definitely be buying more from this author in the future.

This story had me hooked from the first page. Shane was a totally alpha hero with a wicked sense of humor. He was also very hot. Olivia held her own as the heroine. Lots of action and sizzling heat. Ms. Eden (who I am a big fan of) has another winner. Absolutely loved it.