OnlineBookClub.org

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Love Bites" by Sheri Broadbent.]

Love Bites by Sheri Broadbent is a book in the fantasy/horror genre. It follows the story of Morgan Mansfield as she faces the truth of her parent’s death and tries to save whatever is left of her family.

Morgan’s life changed the night her parents were brutally murdered and the identity of the murderer remains a mystery to this date. Try as hard as she might, she cannot escape from the nightmares that have plagued her sleep since that day. She also cannot escape her sister, Fiona’s, constant reminders about how Morgan owes everything to Fiona. So, when Fiona seeks Morgan’s help, the latter is unable to refuse her sister. Only this time it’s too much. Spying on Seth, Fiona’s boyfriend and the father of her unborn child, is more than what Morgan had signed up for. Fiona’s persistence leaves Morgan no option but to trail her sister’s boyfriend. However, Morgan soon discovers that they are dealing with something much more dangerous than a cheating boyfriend here, something that could get them all killed.

If some readers go by the title and assume that this is another story about vampire romance, then they would be relieved (or disappointed perhaps) to know that it does not concern that theme. However, it does revolve around another popular fantasy creature. Since there is no dearth of literature in the fantasy/horror genre; I think an author has to work really hard to come up with something new. Thankfully, our author doesn’t disappoint. What I liked, apart from the plot twists, was how the author captured Morgan’s fear, passion for art, sense of guilt and obligation. Morgan knows that her sister has played a huge role in her success and Fiona doesn’t let her forget it. Morgan hates being her sister’s pet and simultaneously feels guilty for resenting her. Often, Morgan has to depend on alcohol for sleep. The author has sketched a well-rounded protagonist in Morgan, who comes with a baggage, succumbs to human frailties, makes mistakes, and most importantly, she is not a ‘damsel in distress’, but the hero of the piece. My favorite character, though, was Buster, Morgan’s cat, who provides comic relief, in addition to saving Morgan from creepy intruders.

Apart from good characterization, the author’s writing style is also impressive. The well detailed, vivid scenes heighten the reader’s anticipation and add to the suspense element in the novel. Cheating, deception, magic, terror, and a nice dose of women empowerment; the story has plenty of ingredients to engage the readers. What is a bit disappointing is the horror element. The horror scenes didn’t quite live up to my expectation; I felt that when the moment came, the author just rushed through the scene. The final result was tame in comparison to the potential it had.

I recommend this book for readers who like fantasy novels which don’t focus too much on the gore factor. I rate this novel 3 out of 4 stars, for its good writing and characterization.

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Love Bites
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Like debo9967's review? Post a comment saying so!

I was heavily considering reviewing this book. But if I had, then I wouldn't be able to read your wonderful review of it. I find the fact that your favorite character was the cat to be hysterical. I might read it just for fun now.

After reading that book review I'm going to have to read that book. Maybe even give my own review.

@Tanaya: Thanks!

I totally thought this book would be about vampires. This book seems super interesting, and I loved the review!

I really enjoyed your review, @debo9967! I think you did a very nice job explaining the aspects of the book you liked. You were right, though. I honestly thought this book would be another vampire story because of the title! I'm definitely adding it to my to-read! Thanks again for a great review!

Great review. I thought the book was a vampire novel by the title, too. The book sounds like a fun read. I am going to add it to my to-read list.

Thanks all of you!

@debo9967 I actually was thinking it was some kind of lovey-dovey book, and was surprised you picked it. Ha ha. Your rude comment making us wonder what fantastical creature the book contains, makes me want to read it to find out. Well played, reviewer. Congrats to the author on a contagious, positive review.

@Escapeartist: Ha, ha

@debo9967

From the title I was expecting a cheesy vampire romance. This sounds more interesting, but I'm not into horror so I'll pass

The book sounds interesting. Thankfully, its not another vampire romance novel. Nice review!

Thanks

Sounds interesting. Thank you for the nice review.