Alasdair (Masters Among Monsters, #1)

Alasdair Series: Masters Among Monsters, Book 1 Author: Ella Frank Publisher: Self Date: Oct 13, 2015 Stars: 5 Stars Flames: 4.5 Flames

A DANGEROUS ALLURE

Bestowed with eternal life by the Ancient Vasilios, Alasdair Kyriakous is one of the most feared and ruthless vampires in existence. His name carries weight across all of the seven continents.

But he is a mystery to his kind, an anomaly among the self-indulgent. While he enjoys the pleasures of the flesh, he is exceptionally particular in his choice of partners and prides himself on his ironclad self-control.

Yet with one look his control will become a thing of the past, and Alasdair will discover that eternal life doesn’t always last forever…

A DEADLY ATTRACTION Thrust into a world he could never have imagined, Leo Chapel awakens in his worst nightmare. Taken hostage by the dangerously mesmerizing vampire, Alasdair, Leo must rely on his intelligence to escape before he reveals a secret he isn’t even aware he’s hiding.

A FORBIDDEN DESIRE Unaware that they’ve been brought together by an outside force and are little more than pawns to a higher power, Alasdair and Leo spend time trying to uncover the other’s secrets, the attraction between them growing stronger all the while.

But enemies are watching and preparing to act against them. When decisions that will alter lives and destinies have to be made—can a dead, grey heart learn to beat again?

This is an amazing book! I finished this book in a few hours as I literally couldn't put it down even though it meant going all day with no sleep!! There is something about an Ella Frank book and me where I am a slave to her words!! Nothing else matters until the book is complete and It was no different with Alasdair.

So this book is supernatural, specifically vampires -- but don't worry these are not your typical vampires. Imagine being over 2000 years old and one of the most powerful, beautiful creatures on the planet. You are what you are and you make no apologies; after all you are at the top of the food chain. Now imagine your latest hunt, young guy, normal by all appearances -- easy dinner, right? Well that is what Alasdair thinks as he hunts Leo for two weeks, stalking his prey. Much to Alasdair's surprise Leo isn't your average vampire Dinner! Oh and what happens when they prey is attracted to the enemy?

"deadly…he’s so fucking deadly, but so damn hot." -- Leo

You will think you know what is going on in this book. You will sorta be right. You will still be shocked. This is a great start to a series, yes the book ends without it being completed which is slightly irritating but something you almost come to expect nowadays. Don't let that deter you from reading it though as it is totally worth it and there is a LOT of book there and a LOT of story.

"Fuck, he’s sexy. The glowing eyes, those killer teeth, and the way he fell in and out of his native tongue when he was aroused. Sexy was an understatement. Alasdair was every wicked thought and fantasy Leo could have imagined. "

ARC provided by Author via Rock Star PR in Exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jloves2Read from Alpha Book Club & Jessewaves Reviews

Quotes
“Did I interrupt something between you two?” Vasilios asked, glancing from him to Isadora, who was shaking her head vehemently. “No. You certainly did not.” “You needn’t sound so appalled,” Vasilios assured her. “Alasdair has a spectacular cock, and he knows exactly how to use it.” Alasdair thought his cousin’s eyes might fall out of their sockets with the fierce way she was glaring at him. “I’ll be sure to take that into consideration if, for some reason, there are no other options available and someone has chopped off both my hands, leaving him as the last person in the world I could go to for an orgasm.”

“I assure you, Leonidas. If I get kinky with anyone, they are more than happy to be chained up, hooked up, or fucked up by me. And if I decide to kill them afterwards, they are so high that they beg me for that release.”

I popped my M/M cherry with Ella Frank's Try. So when I found out that she has a new M/M series coming, I'm over the freaking moon. However, this one very different from her previous series, as this is a PNR, with less romance and more erotic in nature.

There is quite a world building we have here. Although I have read countless of PNR, Ella still manage to make her own unique world with the vampires and their deadly sire. I'm fascinated with their power, their relationship dynamic and what the human's role in all this.

Alasdair is the first sired of one of the three Ancients, Vasilio. They have this weird master/protege and lover dynamic. They seems to have an unbreakable bond that makes me worry for Alasdair, for how is he going to break free from Vasilio's hold.

Leo Chapel is a human, he is a curator working in a museum. Just hearing his job, we knew there is something more to him than just a mere helpless human. When Alasdair targeted Leo for his next meal, he didn't expect the human to held such a power over him. Alasdair was left baffled by what happened and decided to find out the truth behind Leo Chapel's identity.

Overnight, Leo's life turn upside down by this extremely deadly yet fascinating vampire that got all his blood pumping south. Honestly, with all the lust going with Leo, I felt like he lost all common sense and self preservation when it comes to Alasdair.

I enjoyed Alasdair, as it was highly suspenseful that keep me at the edge of my seat, basically just couldn't tears my eyes off the train wreck that is Alasdair and Leo's circumstances.

As for as this first installment is concern, there isn't much romance per se, but I'm definitely counting on Ella to bring on the love concoction later in the series. This ended with a cliffhanger and the next one is titled 'Isadora'. I had no idea what Ella had in store for us, but I want more of Alasdair and Leo!

To be post on Amazon and my blog on later date

A very well written vampire story between two people who are supposed to be enemies, yet they have no clue that they are. One can destroy the other, but their attraction to each other is so strong. Is it worth the risk of an entire race to be together?

It's been a long time since my "Vampire kick" I probably would have never read this book had it not be written by one of my favorite authors. It started out really slow, setting up characters, but once the story began to flow I couldn't put it down. Congratulations Ella Frank! Cannot wait for Isadora!

Mmmm, this book is so lustful. The author has created an all-star cast. They are gloooooorious, and the sexual tension almost melted the screen off my kindle. I'm talking about the finest specimens to ever exist combined with over 2,000 years of learned charm and earned power. Then, throw in Greek history and gods. It all boils down to survival and desire. And that ending...oh yeah, baby. These vampires are just too seductive for my well being.

Alasdair's plot is über mysterious. Besides the current attraction, there is an overall big story unfolding with hints and flashbacks dropped here and there. The reader has to try to figure out who the characters are to each other and what it all means for the future.

Masters Among Monsters is a full-on dessert smorgasbord, and I've only licked the spoon. I can't wait for more.

5 BRILLIANT STARS

I feel so honored that Ella trusted me to beta read this amazing book!!! As a huge fan of Ella's, I always admired her ability to write amazing stories. This one wasn't an exception! It's simply brilliant and captivating!I devoured it and I can't wait to read it again! I loved the world she created and I was invested in the story! I can't choose just one character because simply I loved them all even the secondary! Get ready for hot Greek vampires that will steal your heart! A steamy, captivating, mysterious story with suspense and twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

5 +++ hot greek vampires stars

I love Ella Frank’s books, she was the first author to introduce me on the M/M world, I kinda refused to read M/M but her books are so hot, sexy and classy, so I have to read Alasdair for many reasons, first I love love love vampires, second I love the way Ella creates a story, a new world, I was really into the story and I didn't want to escape from these amazing Greek Vampires.

Alasdair is the one of the most powerful vampires, second to his sire Vasilios. He is a vampire with particular tastes. After Vasilios, his standards are so high that he has to be very patient when he choose his next prey…..until Leonidas Chapel.

Leonidas Chapel is a “regular” human who has a normal job, he’s an historian and he’s been researching about Ancient Greek and he’s having this nightmares about Greek Gods, that’s when Alasdair appears. He thought he was hallucinating due too much work.

"But this isn’t a nightmare, and you want to know a secret?”
“What happens in here also happens out there.”

Alasdair can’t stay away from this human and Leo is totally drawn to this vampire, the sexual attraction is so palpable and there is this huge connection between them, as both don’t know what is happening to them, they have to figure it out before it’s too late.

“I am drawn to you, Leonidas. I cannot seem to leave you be.”

There are also great secondary characters, hot vampires as Isadora, Thanos, Vasilios and hot humans too as Elias and Paris. As I said I love Ella Frank’s writing, this story is captivating, provocative, sensual, intrigue and full of passion. My stomach was in knots all the time, I should warn you there is no way you put this book down once you started. I’m so happy because I wanted to read something different and this book is so refreshing. I’m totally amazed.

“Thump, thump, thump. It’s a beautiful melody. Is it from fear, I wonder? Or perhaps something more basic in nature. Something more … sexual.”

Review posted on oct 16th

I love Ella Frank and her books and even though I never read paranormal but it's Ella and M/M so I just had to check it out. And these vampires are fucking hot...

Alasdair has been a vampire for two thousand years. He is very controlled and has no problem teasing and then feeding on his prey but one night he saw a man coming out of a bar and became obsessed. He followed him for weeks and would even watch him sleep. He wanted him. There was something about this human that made him want to bring him to his lair. And once he took his first bite...he knew the human was different and he was determined to figure out his secret.

Leo is an archeologist that has been working on Greek Gods exhibit and over the last few weeks he has been experiencing the oddest dreams. They felt real but that was impossible and one night he woke up to a nightmare. He was trapped and would be for weeks. He had no idea what has happened but when he saw the man that he has seen in his dreams, he felt lust. Need. And had many questions.

Alasdair was losing control and everyone around him had noticed. The ancients were disappointed that he was distracted and the one that sired him, the one Alasdair would be devoted to while he was alive was angry and jealous because he knew this human was to blame. They have been lovers for centuries and he could sense there was something about this human that could get in the way.

Alasdair felt he needed to protect Leo but he also knew that one day he would have to end his life. But first, he needed to get answers. Leo was not just human, he knew things and could see things that nobody has. Was he threat to Alasdair? Does Leo even know his own powers? And what if the pull to each-other was some kind of love?

So...like I said this was my first vampire book and I was scared that I would get confused and not get into it but I was wrong. It had mystery, intrigue and it was down right sexy. I can't wait for the second book!!

Quotes:

“Understand, Alasdair. Although I need you to exist, I can still break you.”

“I wanted to taste you on my tongue, file mou. Consume that which flows through your veins. It was an obsession. It still is.”

“You have a smart tongue, Leonidas. I wonder if it’s as talented as it is talkative.”

I love Ella and her books and I used to read only Vampire novels so I was very happy to hear Ella was writing a Vampire M/M! Ella can write anything. She has a way of pulling at all your emotions and leaving you wanting more. Alasdair is one of the oldest living vampires. He likes to choose his next victim, watch them and then feed. He loves the chase. Leo is an archeologist coincidently working on an exhibit for Greek Gods, ancient times and myths, and being stalked by Alasdair. Leo has been having strange dreams that he writes down every night. After waking from a dream starring Alasdair to find the vampire watching him things get a little crazy. Leo is attracted to Alasdair even though he knows he's dangerous. Alasdair knows there is something different about Leo, but he doesn't know what it is. It's big and it's important and he needs to find out before it's too late. Alasdair doesn't want to kill Leo, he just can't deny the connection that he has to the man, but something bigger than him is going on and it could mean the end of all vampires. The vampire that sired Alasdair, Vasilios, doesn't like the hold Leo has on Alasdair. He needs him to remember who he is and where he came from. Vasilios and Alasdair have had a sexual relationship for hundreds of years and he won't let the human change that. Alasdair is sexy as sin and Leo is handsome and smart. Together they are electric. Add is Vasilios and I thought my kindle was going to catch on fire!

Add one more weapon to Alasdair's arsenal - that seductive smile was killer.

"You're amazing," he whispered.
And when an arrogant, "I know," met his ears, Leo smiled despite himself.
Yeah, usually, that kind of god complex irked the hell out of him, but in this two-thousand-year-old's case, it was fucking justified.

"I'd be inside your body. Your mind. Sometimes both."

Ella Frank has always been on my list of authors that I MUST read and one-click. I have read practically all read her books and always found myself devouring every book. When I first heard that she was releasing a new book titled Alasdair, I knew I had to read this book stat. In all honesty, I knew this book was going to be a paranormal/supernatural romance but I didn't know it was going to be an M/M vampire book. Well since Ella was the first author who popped my M/M cherry with TRY, I think it was fitting that she popped my first M/M paranormal erotic book.

"This man was all the things he shouldn't want, but as Alasdair continued to stroke his lip, all Leo could think about was him replacing that finger with his mouth."

Alasdair was dangerously spellbinding and alluring!!! Ella takes her readers on a sexy bewitching journey of intrigue, suspense, and hot sensual erotic vampire love. When Alasdair meets Leo, a human, he couldn't understand the tangible and palpable bond that he had to him. There was something about Leo that made him want and need him. And as for Leo, he is well aware that Alasdair is dangerous but a part of him lust and craves him. Will this pull that Leo has for Alasdair be a deadly attraction that will alter the course of his life?

"Alasdair was spot on. Sexual arousal had overtaken his sanity and he wanted to be fucked by Alasdair. Even if it meant his possible death."

Alasdair wouldn't be your typical paranormal romance book since I felt this wasn't quite a love story with your standard HEA. But I thought it was brilliant that Ella Frank wrote and told the book the way she did. She allowed readers to feel the palpable sexual tension and desire of the characters. Alasdair was a well executed paranormal book that had elements of lust, suspense, mystery, and forbidden desire that were integrated in the story. So if you are looking for a hot, sensual, steamy M/M paranormal book with sexy Greek vampires, then Alasdair is the book for you!!! I can't wait for book 2 and see what Ella Frank has in store for the other characters.

I almost passed on Alasdair. I'm so freaking over vampires and I'm not a huge paranormal romance fan. But I just couldn't miss out on a book written by Ella Frank - I love her stories. Her books and her MM romances are some of my all time favorites, so I had to read her latest release. Even if it was about vampires.

I now want to kick my own ass for almost making a huge blunder. I'm so thankful that I went outside my reading norms because Alasdair was INCREDIBLE. The characters and their story blew me away, it's really all quite brilliant. The plot is intense and seriously, seriously make my panties incinerate erotic - plus it's only the start to what I can only assume will be an epic adventure. I cannot wait for more.

The Masters Among Monsters series starts with Alasdair's book. He spotted Leo one evening and from that moment on, he was completely bewitched. Alasdair's attraction and desire for this man was unlike anything he had felt for thousands of years. They seem to have this enigmatic bond and that makes Alasdair weary. But he's not the only one - Leo is not sure what the hell is going on with his life. He finds himself in an incredibly dangerous situation and while he's scared, he's fascinated by this strange man that he is desperately lusting after.

The book's perspective alternates back and forth from their personas and I was completely entralled by all of it. I thought there was a lot of character development and ground work being laid out for the entire series in Alasdair. You're introduced to all the various characters that will be important throughout Alasdair and Leo's journey. And while the book focused on the passion between these two main characters there really wasn't a lot of romance, however I believe their relationship will develop into more in the following books.

At the core of this story is a lot of Greek mythology, a mysterious plot and lots enticing M/M vampire sex. Alasdair and Leo's lives are obviously entangled for a reason and I believe that the purpose of their bond will slowly unfold throughout the three books. I have no clue what the author has in store for these two but Ella started this series with a hit.

Alasdair is an alluring and captivating book - an absolute must read. Definitely start it today.

When I first decided to read this book, I had no idea what it was about. I hadn’t read the blurb. I didn’t know it was a paranormal story and I didn’t know it was M/M. It’s a good thing I like to read a little bit of everything. I really just wanted to read it because I’ve loved most everything I’ve read of Ella Frank’s. This story started off a little slow for me, but once it picked up towards the last half, I couldn’t put it down.

Alasdair is a complex character. He’s an older vampire and he’s particular. One night he meets a human named Leo. For the first time, he see’s a human for more than just food or sex. He’s not sure why this human has this effect on him, but he does. Leo has no idea what to make of Alasdair or this world he’s suddenly been pulled into. He knows that Alasdair is dangerous, but part of him can’t find it in him to want to stay away. He seems to be as equally drawn to Alasdair.

Alasdair is a super steamy story. I’m not sure if I would call it a romance, although I do see it going in that direction. This first book was missing some of that for me. I love Ella’s writing as always, but I wanted a little more love and connection. The story I liked, especially towards the end, but there were things that confused me- just a lot going on. The ending of Alasdair definitely left me wanting more and I’m antsy to see where their story goes.

*** Review in english ***

I’m not a huge fan of paranormal romance and until that book I’d never read a M/M with vampires or even paranormal creatures. So, when I saw that Ella Frank, one of my favorite author, was writing one, I was very curious and impatient.
In my mind, a romance with vampire equals sexy times and lots of danger. Aaaand my friends, this is what we have here !
Alasdair is an old vampire, he became one when he was a young greek man, something like 2.000 years ago (yeah, he’s an old man lol), he was sired by a sexy guy errr vampire called ‘Vassilios’.
As we can see in that book, a vampire and his/her sire share a special bond, which is very interesting. It brings tension and sensuality, and it’s impossible not to be fascinated by the connexion and the alchemy between Alasdair and Vassilios, even if the Ancient is a scary guy.

Let’s go back to the plot … Alasdair is suddendly attracted by a human, Leo Chapel. Leo is an archeologist, working at the local history museum, and with his friends, he’s about to launch a huge exhibit, the work of several years, based on The Gods and Myths of Ancient Greece (does that ring a bell ? ^^). As soon as Alasdair is aware of Leo’s existence, the human becomes an obsession for him, all the vampire wants is to have him.

After all, half the fun was the anticipation. Embracing that craving which would build inside him to the ultimate peak, where all he wanted, all he thought about, was possessing the one he’d been tracking.
Then came the biggest thrill of all – the chase.

For vampires, humans have only 2 « functions » in their grand scheme of life : they provide « food » or/and are sexuals partners. Alasdair plans on « using » Leo as both, but something highly unexpected happens when the vampire has his first taste of him.

From this moment, there’s a lot tension and mystery, danger, wariness and sexy times between those two. Leo is insanely attracted by Alasdair, and the fact that this gorgeous man is a predator doesn’t make the archeologist back away. Indeed, the danger seems to increase his feelings for the vampire. Leo is quite a mystery. He’s human, yet he provokes strange reactions to Alasdair. And every time they kiss, something strange happens to Leo …In fact, the connection they share goes beyond imagination and they’re linked way more than we could have thought first.
I won’t say much about the plot, I want to let you have the surprise. Let’s just say that this book is full of steamy moments, dangerous ones and it raises a lot of questions : what’s really happening to Leo ? What is this danger threatening the vampires ? Who really is the human? What’s gonna happen next ?
In this book, secondary characters are really important. Vassilios comes first (what a combo of scary and sexy ! I still don’t kno what to think about him … ), but there’s also Isadora and Thanos, Eton and Diomedes, all vampires. And let’s not forget Elias, Leo’s boss and friend, who is also a mystery with a big M (I can’t wait to know more about him !!).

The world described here by Ella Frank is rich, we learn a lot of things about vampires : how/where they live, the connexion they share with their « creator », their habits and customs, their rules, their « legal system » … Vampires here a equally sexy and scary, and it’s crazy to see how humans react to them. As predators, vampires use all their tricks …
I also liked the chemistry between the heroes, the connection they share is hot and intriguing, but it’s not a typical romance we have here. They’re sexually attracted to each other, but the wariness is also an important part of their relationship. I liked the moments where we see a part of vulnerability in Alasdair. It’s refreshing and touching to see he’s not immune to feelings, to see how much Leo touches him.
I also liked the urgency and that kind of evidence between them, that was hot too ! They were meant to be together (and we discover that this is not as romantic as we thought …).
The book ends on a huge cliffhanger, and I finished it the head full of questions …

In this book, I loved the plot, the world created by Ella Frank, all that mythology, the mystery … But I have to admit that I didn’t love the ‘romance’ part as much as the rest. I ended up frustrated by the slow pace of the relationship and I wanted more, so I hope it’ll grow in the next books.

In the end, I have mixed feelings about this book, I loved some parts, but I’m not as enthusiastic about the romance part … But I’ll read the next books and I can’t wait to discover what’s gonna happen next. I want to know more about Paris, I want to see how Thanos will be after what he’s been through, I want more special moments between Alasdair & Leo and I’m dying to know more about Elias ….

*** Review in french ***

Jusqu’ici je n’avais jamais lu de M/M paranormal, mais quand j’ai vu qu’Ella Frank, une de mes auteurs favorites (c’est quand même la maman de Logan et Tate !!) en écrivait un, forcément, j’ai été intriguée, et, pour tout vous dire, un peu anxieuse. Dans mon esprit, M/M ou pas, un paranormal se doit de comporter des moments hots et du danger à tous les étages, et ça, mes amis, c’est bien le cas ! Masters among monsters est donc une série paranormale, mettant en scène des vampires et des humains, et se déroulant dans un univers identique au nôtre.
Alasdair un vieux vampire, créé voilà 2.000 ans ou presque, sous la Grèce antique, par Vassilios.

Il faut savoir que les vampires partagent un lien très spécial avec leur créateur. Vassilios est ce qu’on appelle un « Ancien », c’est un personnage très important dans la hiérarchie des vampires. Alasdair, en tant que « premier-né » de Vassilios est lui aussi très important. Tous deux sont des vampires puissants, tout comme Eton et Diomêdês (deux autres Anciens) et Isadora et Thanos (eux aussi «premier-né » des « Anciens » pré-cités). La relation entre un vampire et son créateur est donc très forte. Lien d’ordre affectif et sexuel, domination et soumission (pas nécessairement dans le sens BDSM … ). Vassilios occupera donc une part importante du récit, il a une sorte d’emprise sur Alasdair qui se dévoilera à mesure qu’on progresse dans le livre.

Lorsqu’ Alasdair découvre Leo Chapel, un archéologue travaillant au musée local, il se sent irrésistiblement attiré par cet humain, qui devient une véritable obsession pour lui, et le vampire ne peut s’empêcher de partir à sa recherche, comme s’il était inévitable pour lui de l’attirer dans ses filets. Pour Alasdair comme pour ses congénères, les humains ne servent qu’à deux choses : servir de nourriture et/ou de partenaire sexuel. Il projette d’utiliser Leo à ces deux fins, et, au départ, cela commence donc comme un jeu, la traque habituelle de sa proie du moment…

"After all, half the fun was the anticipation. Embracing that craving which would build inside him to the ultimate peak, where all he wanted, all he thought about, was possessing the one he’d been tracking.
Then came the biggest thrill of all – the chase. "

Sauf que la chasse se révèle pleine de surprises. Leo, la proie, provoque des réactions inattendues chez Alasdair dès que celui-ci goûte à son sang. De la même manière, quelque chose de bizarre se produit chez Leo à chaque fois que les deux héros échangent un baiser.

Je n’en dirai pas plus sur l’intrigue pour vous laisser le plaisir de la découverte. Disons juste que cette histoire est pleine de surprises, le mystère s’épaissit au fil des pages, donnant lieu à un curieux mélange de flashbacks, de moments flippants, d’interludes sexys (pas seulement entre Alasdair et Leo) et de scènes d’actions. Plus on avance dans le livre et plus on se pose de questions …

J’ai bien apprécié l’univers décrit par Ella Frank, assez riche, puisqu’on découvre de nombreuses choses sur les vampires : leurs us et coutumes, leur ‘système judiciaire’, les liens étroits entre créateur et ‘créature’ … Toute cette mythologie, assortie de quelques parenthèses dans la Grèce antique est finalement ce qui m’a le plus plu dans ce livre. L’action est bien construite et va crescendo. Ces liens étroits entre Humains et Vampires et cette guerre qui se profile à l’horizon est bien menée, le suspense bien distillé, bravo !

En revanche, j’ai moins apprécié la partie ‘romance’. Certes, Alasdair et Leo partagent une attirance sexuelle réciproque et le lien plus complexe qui existe entre eux vient donner un peu plus de relief à leur couple, mais au final, quelque chose m’a manqué dans leur histoire. Cette histoire de flashback, pourtant bien trouvée, ralentit la progression de leur couple et l’importance de Vassilios vient donner un petit côté trio dont je ne suis pas forcément friande (mais j’avoue que la scène où Leo joue les voyeurs ne m’a pas laissée de marbre ^^).

Leo et Alasdair sont forcément plutôt sexys, irrésistiblement attirés l’un par l’autre en dépit du danger et des répercussions que leur ‘union’ pourrait engendrer. Il y a une sorte d’urgence, entre eux, un lien fort malgré les menaces qui pèsent et par moments on voit le vampire complètement dépassé par ce qui lui arrive, ressentir des choses oubliées depuis longtemps.
Attention, pas de romance classique ici, l’histoire est plus complexe que cela et un troisième personnage vient se mêler au couple (sans qu’il y ait pour autant de véritable triangle amoureux, plutôt un trio).

Les personnages secondaires sont très présents, à commencer par Vassilios (je ne sais vraiment pas quoi penser de lui d’ailleurs, c’est un sacré mélange, à la fois flippant, sans pitié et attirant tant il exsude la sensualité et la domination). Je pense aussi à Isadora et Thanos, ainsi que leurs créateurs Eton et Diomedes. Et puis évidemment il y a Elias, intrigant au possible, et Paris, très peu présent, mais qui jouera certainement un rôle important par la suite).

Le livre se termine sur un sacré cliffhanger, véritablement frustrant, qui m’a laissé la tête encore plus embrumée … Plein de questions subsistent donc, et je me doute que les tomes suivants seront du même genre.

Un bilan mitigé donc, mais je poursuivrai la série avec beaucoup de curiosité.

My 4.5 star review was posted today on the blog tour at the following locations:

http://tammyandkimreviews.blogspot.com/2015/10/review-tour-and-giveaway-alasdair-ella.html

https://www.facebook.com/reviewsbytammyandkim/photos/a.165526576923345.42453.165415410267795/670582786417719/?type=3&theater

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1345337518?book_show_action=false

https://twitter.com/ReviewsTammyKim/status/653885285319634944

http://pinterest.com/tammybean/totally-recommendable-books/

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2IJG6OMIDMN/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm

4.5+ stars

I am going to preface this review with the fact that I don't read Vampire books anymore. Of course, I had my Twilight phase like many of us, but it is long over. But Ella Frank is a no-brainer go-to-author for me. And I have really been enjoying MM romances. So I was intrigued and excited for Alasdair.

Alasdair is not your average sparkly Twilight vamp. He's more like the darker ones. He is a first sire of an Ancient and seen as important. He's got powers. He is very selective and thrives on the hunt. He lives for control. And he oozes an intense sexual allure. He is a seductive predator that looks like a dark angel.

But one human totally surprises him with his magnetic pull. Leonidas Chapel is a nerdy but sexy museum curator. Alasdair finds himself unable to resist the chase and need to capture him. Leo is both fascinated and terrified of his new knowledge of vampires and how Alasdair has made a mess of his previously boring life. But he is also outspoken, sarcastic, and has a quiet strength. And Alasdair finds some of Leo's unusual traits equally intriguing.

And there are even more complications with the symbiotic relationship between Alasdair and his sire Vasilious. Vasilious takes dark and dangerous to an even higher level with his power, authority, cruelty, and need to be superior.

But holy hell the sexual tension between all of them was off the charts! I was not sure whose pants were going to fly off first. They circle around in a dance of dominance an submission with pleasure and pain intertwined. Leo makes the stoic Alasdair lose his grip on his usually tight control. Leo has intense reactions to Alasdair that are confusing and conflicting. And Vasilious throws off some of his own waves of sexual need.

This is intoxicating, erotic, dangerous, and suspenseful. There is coercion, powers, sexual tension, and debauchery. The story is full of mysteries as the characters try to figure out what is going on and how the pieces fit together. There are hidden agendas, threats, secrets. and connections. The interactions between Alasdair, Leo, and Vasilious are sexually charged, scorching hot, raw, and primal. They are inexplicably drawn to each other and powerless to resist.

There is a twisted bond between Alasdair and his cousins, Thanos and Isadora. They play hot and cold with each other. Sometimes they fight for each other and other times they seem to be causing more issues. Their relationships with their sires are equally complicated and interwoven. The cousins each have interesting stories developing and I am looking forward to more with them as the series progresses. And Leo's museum friends Elias and Paris also seem to be significant and I can't wait to learn more about them as well.

It seems like there is more and more trouble brewing and it is about to boil over. A hidden war seems to be engaging, but who are the players and how do they fit? Alasdair is caught between his strange need to keep Leo safe while also trying to help his own kind ward off threats. Who is the real evil and monster?

This ends at an interesting crossroads. Some plot pieces were initiated to continue in the next book titled Isadora. I got sucked into this dark and dangerous world. Ella writes in such a way that you feel like you are part of the story both in the present and in the past flashbacks. I felt like I was discovering this whole strange, confusing world along with Leo. I felt his fear, desperation, and conflicting needs. And along with Alasdair, I was trying to find out what outside forces were conspiring in the background and to figure out how Leo fits into the picture. The characters were all complex and intriguing. They all had a delicious mix of sin, humor, strength, and hidden vulnerability. I loved the combination of Greek mythology mixed with vampire legends with a heavy dose of steam and MM encounters thrown in. Ella Frank was able to bring me back to a place where I enjoyed reading about vamps and am looking forward to more.

ARC provided by author for an honest review.

This is my very first Ella Frank book. Yes. I admit it. I have several of her books waiting for me on both my Kindle and Kobo apps on my tablet, so I don't really have much of an excuse other than a lack of time. And yes, I am terribly embarrassed that it's taken me this long to read something written by her, but if I wanted evidence of why many a reader have fallen in love with her words, her characters, and her stories, then I need look no further than Alasdair because what an introduction it is to her gift for storytelling and character development. I started and finished this book in one sitting, and it's been nearly twenty-four hours since I got to the end and I'm still experiencing a hangover of epic proportions. I couldn't turn my concentration away from Alasdair, Leo, and the rest of the cast of characters because the story they were part of was one that had an eroticism that was never vulgar while remaining shrouded by an air of mystery because of who Alasdair and Leo were and how they seem be destined to have an unbreakable connection.

Let me put this out there: the book ends in a cliffhanger and when I got to that particular point, I couldn't help the loud shout of "No!" that came out of my mouth. So, yes, I am left with questions that are demanding answers and I've almost got this feeling that I won't be getting all of those when I finally get my hands on the second book in the series, Isadora, due for release in January 2016. Alasdair and Leo have officially become my newest favorite book couple, though I suspect that they've still got a very challenging journey ahead of them. I have my own theories about what's going on with the vampires and Leo and his friends, but I think I'll keep those to myself for the meantime because I may require another read-through (or two or three...or more) to decide which theory I'm sticking with going into book two. I will say this though: I don't trust Vasilios and if I could drive a stake through his heart, I would (if that is, indeed, a way for these vampires to be destroyed). I'm declaring Alasdair a must-read, all-time favorite. Five-plus stars! ♥

This one took me out of my comfort zone! I am not normally a paranormal reader but its Ella Frank and I will read her every time!

I had some trouble getting into the different names, languages and the imagery of the bathhouses, flipping back and forth in time (this is my deficit not the authors) but once I was immersed I caught myself reading faster and faster to see where all of the pieces fit together! What is Leo's roll in the flashbacks? How does Elias and Paris fit in to the equation? Who is coming for the vampires?

This read left us with one hell of a cliffhanger but we do not have long to wait, Ella Frank listed at the end of this installment that Isadora is next and will be here in January 2016.

Ella Frank strikes again. Alasdair is absolutely extraordinary from beginning to end. Frank has one of the most sensational writing voices i have ever come across, with characters that practically come alive on the page and leave your emotions scattered amongst the pages of your kindle.

Alasdair himself is a remarkable character complete with good looks, charm and arrogance. However, there is a strange vulnerability to him that inevitably makes him endearing to the reader and has you wishing for more.

Leo is a wonderful opposite to Alasdair, relying on his intelligence and his uniqueness to muddle his way through the strange turn his life has taken. He has the emotional strength to persevere and keep his wits about him in such a confusing situation whilst easily accepting his growing feelings towards Alasdair.

I can not recommend this stunning, unbelievable, phenomenal book enough. This is part of a series so i shall warn you that there in a cliff hanger at the end yet it is completely worth the emotional turmoil you will be in until the next book is released. Ella frank is an outstanding author and every book that she writes is complete stardust.

From the beginning, when Alasdair and Leo meet, there is a connection. We don't know why and we don't know how but if they act on it, it could be deadly. No matter what they do, it could turn out deadly for all because someone has determined that the time for the existence of vampires has run out!

Can I just say WOW! And MAJOR CLIFFHANGER! But...the story is so good that I'm willing to wait for the next book. From the beginning this author pulls you into this dark, intense and extremely sexy world of Gods, Ancients, First-Sired vampires and those that want to either love them or kill them. This book is extremely well-written and played like a movie in my head. The characters were a perfect mix of sexy, charming, dark, ruthless and sometimes a little scary. Every once in a while, you'll glimpse a sliver of compassion from these paranormal beings. I really can't say enough great things about this book. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I HIGHLY recommend this fantastic, extremely sexy book.

Received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed is my own.

4 stars

Alasdair is a paranormal story and I'll admit that paranormal is not my style. This story however whilst it used the vampire aspect it didn't take over the story.

Leo is a man that to the outside world looks and acts pretty damn normal. He has a normal job and a normal life.He is plagued by dreams and he regularly documents what he can remember. One night whilst he is asleep Alasdair appears.

Alasdair is a vampire who finds himself irrevocably attached & drawn to Leonidas. The night he appears in Leo's bedroom is the same night he is summoned to his creator. However as he tries to attach himself to Leo something happens. Something that confuses him. Alasdair then makes it his mission to find out what. It should be noted that Alasdair prides himself on control and Leo isn’t what he expected in any way at all.

Leo knows he is being given flashbacks but he doesn't know why or what it is for. He is thrown into a world, which confuses the heck out of him and myself to be really honest. I still don’t quite get everything that happened but the story is twisty and full of turns but it is a truly fascinating read. It confuses me but I don’t see that as a negative, in fact it makes me want to read more.

Paranormal romances are not my style but this series will be the exception for me!

The review is short so I don't spoil anything but I implore you to read if you like paranormal.

5 Great Stars.

Ella Frank has done it again and wrote the start of what I expect will be a brilliant series and it contains two elements I would never have thought would work to together - a M/M story with a vampire mix. Ella Frank easily pulls it off as I loved it!!!

The story is about Alasdair who is a accident vampire who spots and prays on Leo as his potential next meal however there is something about Leo that's connects them together and Alasdair is determined to find out why this human effects him like no other ever has. Once Leo discovers what Alasdair is nothing fades him, he is just as affected by there connection as Alasdair is. However there is something much bigger out to ensure the death of both of them. Can Alasdair and Leo figure out what and how is after them and will they be able to peruse any sort of relationship?

I really liked Alasdair and Leo's relationship , the banter is great and there is lots of back and forth. I didn't think Ella Frank would match her Take series but I think this equals it. There are plenty of super how scenes and I don't think anyone could write a M/M story as well as Ella. We even get a sort of threesome scene that me fanning myself.

The story is really well written and once I started it I didn't want to put in down. However there is a frustrating cliffhanger ending that had me wanting to throw by kindle across the room when I finished the book. I can't wait till January for next installment and I look to where Ella will take the series,

Overall a super hot, M/M vampire story that I loved.

Alasdair is a sensual vamp story that also has the intrigue and suspense to boot. It's filled with a sizzling chemistry between the vampire Alasdair and the human Leo that neither really understand at first. The want and need between them was tangible and overwhelming for them both. On top of all this there is an enemy threatening the vamp family. That's really where the whole suspense thing comes to the forefront and keeps you reading until the very end. Ella writes the whole package when it comes to this vampy story and I can't wait to read what happens next.

I give Alasdair 4 hearts!

Link to the blog review enclosed!

**4.5 Stars**

Ella Frank will take you on a paranormal adventure with Alasdair. Into the world of vampires, we meet Alasdair. In all of his years on this earth, he's been very particular about how he chooses his partner or blood. He's had many years to gain this sort of control over his more instinctual needs, but that doesn't mean he isn't ruthless. When he comes across Leo, it's an instant sizzle of a string that connects the two. He's not quite sure why he feels the way he does, but he can't help but watch this other man, obsesses over watching him. This desperation that he feels, a soul-deep connection, ties the two of them together in ways that neither of them expected.

With Alasdair, we get a story that we've never seen before from Ms. Frank. It was primal and erotic, sometimes detrimentally so, but in a way that moved the story forward, pushed the characters to new heights to further their journey. The world-building and species (for lack of a better word) creation was unique and fascinating. It did start off a bit thick and slow, in part because of the backbone building of the story, but once we hit story and depth to their path, it was off and running. Ms. Frank is known most especially for her brilliant M/M reads, and this is right up there. Leo and Alasdair were scorching, and the vampire aspect only added to it. It was primal and action-packed, but it was also written in a way that the pages were rich with information. I can't wait to see where the next story takes them.

Ella Frank has once again delivered with the first installment of her new series, Alasdair (Book 1 of Masters Among Monsters).

Erotic, intriguing, suspenseful, and eloquent are words that come to mind when trying to describe Alasdair. Ella Frank has a way with prose that makes the story flow seamlessly while delighting you with its beauty. Alasdair is unlike any of Frank’s other novels in that it is dark, paranormal, and extremely suspenseful.

Alasdair Kyriakous is one of the oldest of the immortals roaming the earth. As first sired by Vasilios, one of the three Ancients, Alasdair is revered by his kind as something of a god and is not to be trifled with.

Alasdair is as ruthless as he is sexy, which makes for a lethal combination. He has been a vampire for well over 2,000 years and prides himself on his self-control and selective nature; however, with one look, all of his prized control goes out the window when he spies Leonidas.

Leonidas Chapel (Leo) is a history enthusiast who works for the Natural History Museum. His current project on Ancient Greece suddenly becomes real when a figure from that time emerges in the form of Alasdair.

Leo is thrust into a world he never imagined existed and finds himself fighting for his life in an underworld of vampires. While he should be fearing for his life, he cannot control the all-consuming lust he feels for Alasdair.

Not only that, it appears the Vampire is struggling with his attraction as well.

Leo and Alasdair are mere pawns thrown together by beings of higher power who fight for control over their world.

Will these two pawns play against each other as planned, or will they turn the tables and take back control of their own destinies?

Alasdair was intriguing from beginning to end. From the very start I was captivated by Alasdair and Leo. Alasdair and his ruthlessness and Leo with his naiveté were a great combination.

The pages of this book were burning with lust and savage desire. Frank’s writing is so descriptive, I felt as though I were watching a movie instead of reading a book. One minute I was in a Vampire’s lair and the next I was transported to Ancient Greece, walking among the great rotundas and bathhouses of the time.

Alasdair kept me on my toes wondering what was going to happen next. It was full of suspense and mystery. As a fan of Vampires and of the paranormal genre in general, I found this book refreshing and original in concept. It has a different spin on how Vampires came into existence and leaves you wondering if the creator realizes they were a mistake.

I sometimes found myself frustrated while reading Alasdair because the answer to one question only led to further mysteries. It was obvious that we weren’t going to get many answers in this first installment of Masters Among Monsters—we were being set up for one helluva cliffhanger.

In the end, I don’t really mind the suspense because Ella Frank certainly has me craving answers and so much more. I cannot wait to continue the saga of these gods, monsters, and myths with the next installment, Isadora, coming in January 2016.

(Review was completed by contributor, Jennifer Marcum, on QUEERcentric Books.)

This is the first book I've read by Ella Frank, and I can say with great conviction that it certainly won't be the last...because, WOW. The sexual tension, suspense and storytelling were all present in spades, and though the first half did move a little slower for me, even then I could not tear myself away from this book.

The story sucks you in (pun not intended, but then again...yeah), and I found the intricacies of the vampire societal structure to be quite intriguing. At times I was torn between hating Vasilios for how he treats Alasdair, but then completely vacillated in the opposite direction at others (in particular the scene with the two of them and Leo in the bedchamber, as well as the final scene).

The constantly warring emotions Alasdair has for Leo contribute to the suspense, and sexual tension seems to be a permanent theme between them. Between this and the order Vasilios finally issues to Alasdair regarding Leo, Ella Frank makes it so you don't want to put this book down for even a moment.

The characters have excellent depth and are all well developed, even those who only play supporting parts. They all make valuable contributions to the story, and I was left wanting to know more about all of them and can't wait to read the rest of the series to learn more. The story is told from multiple characters' points of view, which truly enriched the story and added complexity by giving the different perspectives.

This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger...when I got to that final scene and the story ended I was scrambling to find out when the next book would be coming out as I NEED more! Alasdair is a fantastic, gripping paranormal M/M vampire romance and was a 5-star read for me. I'm already on the lookout for the next in the series, and will be scooping it up the first chance I get! Alasdair is recommended for 18+ due to adult M/M erotic scenes (start fanning yourself now...).

Ella Frank continues to enthrall me with her stories and characters, and this time, Frank takes readers into the paranormal realm where vampires reign supreme and Alasdair commands those around him. But when a man that Alasdair knows little about becomes his obsession, Alasdair will have to acquire the reasons why by any means necessary because not only does his immortal life depend on it, but so do the lives who are connected to him through his creation and common bond.

Frank does a tremendous job of creating and illustrating her vampire world and all the players and hierarchy involved in their domain. The main and supporting characters are well developed and their thirst for blood and sex and how they go about obtaining both of those items is what makes them dynamic to read.

Alasdair is a very sexual creature who commands and obeys depending on who provokes those responses - he is a leader, but he was also sired by the most powerful vampire in their domain, which means Alasdair has to walk a very fine line, and he finds it harder to do so as his thoughts and desires become consumed by a man who shouldn't have that much power over Alasdair but he does.

Leo, the human Alasdair is obsessed with, is introduced to a world he knows nothing about and learns of a mission that he has been created and destined for, but right now, that is of no consequence because what’s driving Leo is his attraction to the alluring immortal, and while Leo knows he should fear for his life, he’s consumed with the need to be owned by Alasdair, but what that would mean to Leo’s future as well as that of the Ancients and their first sired vampires is still unclear, and readers will be left to speculate how Leo, Alasdair, and Vasillos proceed with their newly acquired information and the complicated and dangerous situation they all find themselves in at the end of the text.

Ella Frank is a gifted writer because she has the ability to switch genres with ease; she creates such well rounded characters that it’s easy to understand what motivates them and why they makes the choices they do. I wouldn’t call Alasdair a typical paranormal romance because Frank creates a tangled web of unique relationships that don’t seem to mesh well given the circumstances. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how and if the vampires and humans can co exist with everything that is at stake for both kinds.

A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)

★★★★☆
4.5 Vampire Stars ARC received from RockstarLit PR for an honest review

What else are you popping my cherry for, Ella Frank? This author has popped my M/M cherry and now with Alasdair, she upped it and made it a M/M Paranormal story. This author is a mean genius and I love how her stories, regardless whether it's sweet romance, sexy romance, thrilling romance, Male-Female, Male-Male, paranormal, she knows how to lure in her readers with her addictive words and characters.

I am a don't knock it til you try it at least once kind of girl and that applies to the books I read. I always say I'm willing to read anything as long as the synopsis caught my interest, I've known and read most of the authors previous books and loved it, and sometimes both good and bad reviews add to my curiosity. I have read and loved Ella Frank's books and it seems fitting that she open my eyes to another world of vampires, too.

Alasdair is not the typical romance I've been reading, but that's not to say that Alasdair and Leo and even Vasilios gave off an extremely hot and heavy atmosphere it's a wonder that my Kindle didn't produce smoke. I enthralled with Alasdair! His power, his submission, his dominance, his sensual personality was addictive to read. Leo wasn't too difficult to love, either. The way he was confused about how he's feeling towards Alasdair tickled my heart. I felt the genuine confusion, lust, and attraction -- it felt real. I have only read a handful of paranormal books, and by handful I mean you can count in one hand for real, and I was worried that this will be the first book by the author that I won't love as much, but she proved me otherwise! I was captivated with Alasdair's world, I love the storytelling and how I can imagine and feel the location. As usual, the author's talent in writing her stories was enough for me to find myself reading and reading until there's no more page left to turn.

This is yet again another Ella Frank novel that's not easy for me to review and not because I don't have anything to say but because I felt like I will end up spoiling the story for everyone else. Believe me, you wouldn't want that. Alasdair will keep you on your toes! I can and will say, however, that if you are an M/M Paranormal virgin like me, there is no better author to pop that cherry for you. And if you are a fan of the genre, Ella Frank will give you another favorite to love.

Stars: 4.5 stars Recommended to: Paranormal, M/M readers, this is an amazing read!
Series: Yes. Book 1 of 3 (3 as of the moment)
POV: Third person.
Extra Comment: January seems so far away!

5 stars

First let me say this is a paranormal book, along with it being M/M!!

I love me a good vampire book. Alasdair seemed to be enriched with Greek History.
There were twists on every page that you read.
Each vampire book has it's own lore. Well Ella Frank's vampires are really unique. You have Alasdair who has this obsession with Leo who is human. Alasdair isn't sure what is pulling him to Leo. He only knows that he can't stop thinking of him.
Alasdair gifted with eternal life, strength, and all those other qualities that come with being a vampire has his downfall. MEN!

Leo who has come face to face with Alasdair has no idea what is going to happen to him. He does know that Alasdair is beautiful even for a man/vampire.

You meet Alasdairs vampire family. You learn how Alasdair became vampire. Those crazy twists I mentioned? Yeah Leo does this weird thing when him and Alasdair get intimate. It's like he gets projected back into the past. Not to say to much though. These vampires don't sparkle!!

Shel: Y'all. I'm so outside of my knowledge base right now that I'm afraid I'm going to mess this review up. Just try to go with it? (Or, accept my apologies in advance).

Shel: Hmmm. So how does someone who has only read one vampire series (the Anne Rice one) find herself reading a vampire book? GREAT QUESTION. Easy answer. Two words: Ella Frank. I honestly (because I've been buried by teaching, planning, grading) had no idea what Alasdair was about but I knew Ella wrote it and that's really all I needed to know. Though you can imagine my surprise when within sentences one guy was basically hunting another--my reaction was probably a little like this: Court: I was excited about it to be honest...because Try was so freaking good, and adding this supernatural element was something that was very intriguing...and a new experience for us in reading Ella.

Shel: Haha. Anyway. It took me a few pages to get in the right mindset (ie, accept it as complete and utter fiction and in no way real life) but soon I began to understand the context--who was connected to whom-- and some of the puzzle pieces started to click into place. (Note I said some. This is the first book in this series and ends on a 'more to come' type ending). Court: I felt like as new series go, we really got quite a bit of information fairly early...and then it built and built...as did other things, ahem...my curiosity into whether these guys will or won't...ya know! And then Ella's writing as always sucked me in right into the story, and I was very involved in the characters.

Shel: If you're like me and a total newbie when it comes to this genre here's what I've learned while reading this novel:
Shel: suspending your sense of reality is important, if not you'll just scoff at the whole vampire thing Court: I do think you have to like vampires/an aspect of the supernatural.
there's some interesting historical/mythological story telling going on Court: I was intrigued here immensely simply because the Greek's added something that more people will relate to. Their ages were able to give a more realistic feel and time period to tie everything together. Shel: the writing is trademark Ella Frank: conflict and chemistry between the characters Court: CHEMISTRY --- all must be capitalized! Because whew. These boys...(I will NOT call them males...because that started to somewhat grate...but I get it/why/ya know) really mde me crazy with their back and forth. Shel: just when you're thinking you've figured things out...BAM! the end. gahhhhhh Court: It built, and built, and built! And then shit. It ended! Shit!

Shel: One final note. I'm not sure if you're familiar with the term "edging"? If not...I'll just tell you that OMFGELLAFRANK is the pro at this in Alasdair (for her characters and readers). I think I had blueballs and I don't even have balls. sheeeeit. *ahem* Court: Hahahahahahahahahahaha. Amen, sistah.

Shel: So if you're new to this like me, give it a shot--I think you'll enjoy it! Court: OR if you're a paranormal guru like me, give it a try too because it was pretty damn good!

Wow!!!!!! a new delicious and alluring new series by the great Ella, and if that is not enough she adds Vampires to the mix.

I loved this story, it had been a while since I read about vampires but the fabulous Ella decided to write another M/M genre story and couldn't miss it, and let me tell you this is the vampire story that I was waiting for, is not just sexy and mysterious. The story capture me in way that no other has in a long time, in other words is just plain awesome.

I can't get into much detail about the plot because is one of those stories that is hard to put into words and should enjoy on its own. But the build up of the story, the characters, and just overall it leaves a thirst for more. The Ending is definitely not your typical cliffhanger but a way to build up the climax. Alasdair was such Hot story with many sexy vampires and few other things ;) and if you love Ella and are a fan of M/M style or want to try definitely check this story out is much more than what you expect.

*** Thank you to Ella and the publisher for providing an Advance readers copy for an honest review.

Alasdair (Masters Among Monsters #1) by Ella Frank 4.5 stars!!

“First, you terrorize me, then you kidnap me, and now, you’re hell bent on destroying my life. If this is your version of playing with your food, I think you’ve taken it far enough.”

Wow, once again Ella Frank never ceases to amaze me, what a start to this MM Vampire series. Did you notice I did not say romance…well for me this story was entirely plot driven and the MM erotica was just an extremely welcome added bonus. What I loved about this story was the fantastic plot and the references to Greek Mythology. Ella Frank goes some way to explaining where her clan of vampires heralded from and this weaved in amongst a suspenseful and edge of your seat plot kept those pages constantly turning.

Ella Frank’s signature amazing writing totally enveloped me in this story of saving a race of vampires that had been sired from the Greek Gods. Her prose as always flowed beautifully and her scene setting as always was magical and flawless. So much thought and effort went into these Vampires that you got to know them on a personal level, so strong was the character connection that I was whisked away into this world of erotic, blood sucking vampires and I didn’t want to leave.

Alasdair was an extremely complex vampire, as with all vampires he was stunningly handsome and had all the means to back up his perfect exterior, but unlike most he was extremely picky who he fed from and most of all who he took to bed. His interest is piqued, which is most unusual by a man that he sees leaving from a bar, he is instantly drawn to and attracted to him which nigh on never happens. He stalks this man to find out as much as he could about him and every time he gets close that ever present pull materialises. He was just as confused as he was turned on and being the man he is, he decides to make his move.

“He could have his pick of anyone in their brood, but he was particular about where he sank his teeth and his cock and took pride in the control he wielded over his hunger.”

Leo is currently studying Greek Mythology and is working tirelessly hard on putting together an exhibition at the museum with a couple of colleagues. He has been studying the Greeks and the Vampires for a long time, so when his life is turned upside down and he finds himself the prey of one of the most revered vampires he doesn’t know whether to run away from or run into the arms of Alasdair. Like Alasdair, Leo is insanely attracted and while his fight or flight is in full swing he cannot help but be curious. He never dreamt that he would see first-hand what and who he has been studying and while he should be scared of his most probable impending death the allure of Alasdair is just too strong. Is this just that old wives tales of vampires being able to seduce even the most unwilling partners or is there something more? Is it just fate that this two just met? Who is under whose spell?

“…is that a trick question?...I’m not a person, Leonidas. I’m vampire. That’s the kind of sick fuck I am.”

This book is full of mystery and intrigue and has many different POV’s. It was great to get to know all the other characters that play such a significant role in this series and this only whets the appetite for their stories to come. While the plot runs throughout this series, each book centres on a different vampire. Isadora is up next and she is one feisty lady.

Once again I am blown away by an Ella Frank book, she has taken me on a journey through multiple genres over the years and I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing this woman cannot write. She continually shocks me with her diversity and not only the fact that she tries to be different but also that she nails it every time. Extremely talented lady and one that is on my all-time favourite authors list, if you haven’t checked her out before, please do, you are in for some amazing reads.

“A lot can happen when the sun dips down and the moon comes out to play…”

Bring on the Vamps, I want more, I need more!!

Paranormal romance is what originally got me into reading again. M/M romance is another favorite of mine. Put the two together with one of my favorite authors writing the book? Well I was in total book whore heaven. Alasdair absolutely blew me away. It was a little bit dark, it kept me on the edge of my seat wondering when the sexual tension and chemistry between Alasdair and Leo would explode, and if we would find out the answers that are brought up throughout the entire book.

Alasdair and Leo have a connection beyond prey and predator. It goes beyond sex. There is an unknown pull that can’t let Alasdair walk away from Leo and that makes Leo connected to Alasdair. That connection could end up to be deadly. Alasdair is not to be messed with. Add into the intensity Alasdair’s fire sire and their relationship and this situation becomes nuclear.

I will admit it took me a little longer than normal to really be sucked in that I usually am with one of Ms. Frank’s books but once I was able to be sucked into the storyline I didn’t want to put it down. Alasdair was different than any of the paranormal vampire romances that I have ever read in the past and it still had that same sexiness that we have come to expect from Ms. Frank. It does have a cliffhanger, so while when I hit the end I cried out “no I must have more!” I know that it will be worth the wait to see what will happen between Alasdair and Leo and also what is instore for the cousins. Oh what I didn’t mention them yet? Guess you better pick up the book to see who I am referring to. Congrats Ella Frank on yet another amazing read and I will impatiently wait for the next book to release.

4.5 out of 5 Fangs for this one~

Their fangs are showing!

I am not into vampires, but I received a copy of this book from the author and decided to read it. I love all her other books. She has a way of creating characters that are hard to forget.

Now this book has me with mixed feelings. I do not like vampires, but yet she has a very interesting plotline going here. There is the usual attraction to the scent and figure of the vampire by the prey. Unusual is the fact that Alasdair is willing to delay feeding because of the heightened rush of the anticipation. When he finally bites his prey... things become very unusual. I won't spoil it for you.

There is a mystery to resolve! The Ancients are in peril! The well-being of the line of vampires they generated is in peril too. Alasdair is out to resolve this and protect his Master.

OMG Ella Frank has done it again! This has become one of my favorite books by this author. She is amazing author that lures you into her books and keeps you there. Ella definitely uses this talent in Alasdair!

Alasdair is amazing, brilliant, hot, breathtaking,and alluring. I fell in love with this book and the characters immediately!

Alasdair is the first book of the Masters Among Monsters series.

I am a huge Ella Frank fan.I am a lover of paranormal and M/M books, so when Ella announced that her new book was a M/M paranormal book I was super excited. I could not wait to read this book! I knew it would be amazing and hard to put down. I was not disappointed! I had this book devoured in a few hours.

Alasdair will have you hooked from the beginning. Putting down this book will be impossible once you begin. You will be left wanting more and hoping the next book was released. I know I can not wait for the next book.

The dark, lustful, passionate, breathtaking vampires in this book will pull you into the story-line that will have you crossing the line between reality and fiction. This line is the one that will have you so captivated that you will feel that you part of the story-line and experiencing everything first hand. I love this about this book!

My favorite part of this book is the backstory of the life of Alasdair. This gives the history of the human and vampire that is Alasdair making you feel that you are able to know the real characters.

The twist and turns in this book are amazing. When you think you believe what is going to happen next then BAM Ella changes everything. I love when an author does this in the story-line because it keeps the reader on their toes and wanting to turn the pages faster to see what happens next.

I HIGHLY recommend this book! This is a book you DO NOT want to miss reading! It has everything that will keep you wanting more of the author and the story-line. Go grab your copy and get comfy in your favorite reading place while you devour this intriguing, alluring, passionate, breathtaking book.

*Complimentary copy for an honest review

Ella Frank is a chameleon of genres. The woman is a damn genius is what she is. Whether it be contemporary, MM, Urban Fantasy, and now PNR, it seems like she really cannot do any wrong. I had no idea what to expect when I picked this book up, but I knew two things for sure:
1. Ovary survival was not guaranteed 2. I was gonna enjoy the hell of out it.
Alasdair is part 1 of what’s planned to be a series of three books and boy does it lure the reader in. Greek mythology, vampires, and sizzling hot sex. Intrigued? As you should be.
Truth be told, I’m always hesitant with the first book in a PNR series because almost always it will suffer what I refer to as a case of the firsts. What I mean is, between the introduction of all the characters, the world building, and everything in between, I often find myself taking a while to get into the story and wrap my mind around everything. I was beyond thrilled and not a little surprised that that wasn’t the case here. I was sucked into the book immediately. The character development, the rich world building, the unbelievably sizzling sexual tension is what made this book the unputdownable read that it was.
You get a perverse kind of pleasure out of this, don’t you?”
“Out of?”
“My confusion. My fear. It turns you on, right? What kind of sick fuck are you?”
“Is that a trick question? I’m not a person, Leonidas. I’m vampire. That’s the kind of sick fuck I am.”
Alasdair is a first sired; one of the most powerful vampires in existence second only to his sire; Vasilios. Ruthless, unapologetic, and with a magnetic sexual appeal there’s not much in life that Alasdair doesn’t have. His face has lured plenty a human to their death while experiencing a pleasure unlike any they’ve ever experienced. But he’s also a vampire of particular tastes. Being alive for centuries has ensured that not just anyone experiences the pleasure of receiving his carnal attentions. But then one human changes everything…
Alasdair teaser-DGRLeonidas Chapel is thrust in a world unlike any he’s ever imagined existed. But worst of all? He’s inexplicably drawn to his captor. Alasdair stirs not only his blood but there’s clearly a connection between them that raises quite a few questions.
There’s quite a few fascinating secondary characters that are introduced here that I can’t wait to find out more about; Isadora, Elias, Vasilios, Thanos. I was also captivated by the greek mythology that seems to wrap around this particular take on vampires.
What I really loved about this book was the way that Ella managed to maintain the focus on the couple while building a world of intriguing secondary characters around them all without ever having it be too much. You get a little more of their world piece by piece but it happens as the connection between Alasdair and Leo takes place. I loved the dynamic of that. Having read quite a few PNR series in my day, I can tell you that it rarely happens when a first in a series sucks me in the way this book did.
Fair warning though, this book will put your ovaries through the ringer. Ella gives the term sexual tension new meaning, I swears. The burn! The burn! It hurt so good. Even when I felt like I might implode if they don’t do it soon. It only served to stoke the fire even higher when it did happen. There’s nothing better for me in romance than the burn of sexual tension leading up to the main event and boy does it burn in this one. I didn’t know whether to cry, rage, or ice my ovaries? But damn if I didn’t love every agonizing second of it.
Book two will focus on a different character while continuing to build on the story and mystery that began in this one. I’m well and truly hooked, so bring it on Miss Frank. Bring. It. On.

Ella Frank is amazingly talented in the way she is able to take your mind into a world of fantasy, yet through her writing you feel like these characters are real. I felt like I was in this world full of Vampires. I felt the tension that was so strong between Leo and Alasdair. I wanted to crawl inside my Kindle and witness this story from the inside. My mind twisted with the plot. I had so many questions while reading. This story is full of suspense, angst, sexual tension and some of the hottest moments I’ve read from her.

I’m not a huge fan of paranormal. I say this, yet I find myself loving each one I’ve read. Alasdair is no different. I loved how enthralled I became in the storyline. I couldn’t put this one down. I read from start to finish. Ella Frank blows my mind with her words. She is so articulate, her words flowing like a river in the mountains. Beautiful, majestic and refreshing.

Leo, Alasdair and Vasilios’ story was not one I had anticipated. It was intense, erotic and at times frustrating. I found myself feeling sorry for the life Alasdair was chained to.

If you are looking for a vampire book that will have your mind reeling, your curiosity peeked and have you on the edge of your seat in anticipation, then this is the book for you. Add in the hotness that is Alasdair and his many conquests and you will completely understand my five star rating. Bravo Ella Frank!

I'm a big fan of Ella Frank's and when I heard she wrote a PARANORMAL m/m erotic romance, you better believe I was all over this shit. So thanks for giving me the opportunity to read and review Alasdair. Ella knows how to write sexy and isn't afraid to get down and dirty to get there, that's nothing new. It's always a sweet pleasure for us readers that we are more than happy to indulge again and again. What I really enjoyed in Alasdair, besides all the man on man lovin, was the vampiric history and nature in their world. It's was interesting and fun getting to learn about them and where they came from. Another thing I liked was the connections the characters have with each other and how that challenges with who they are the prophesies that is destined to be fulfilled. And usually, I'm not for a lot of flashbacks, but it was essential for this one and I ended up enjoying it a whole lot. *smirky smirk* What surprised me from Ella was that both the H's, while fooling around some, took a long ass time to get them to kiss. And that they didn't get it on so quickly like I thought they would. There was so much sexual tension, I expected them to hook up even halfway through, but I think that it made it all the better that way.

Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Author and Rock Star PR via NetGalley Genre: MM Paranormal Romance Part 1 in a new series

My Alasdair Review . . .

The one thing I love about paranormal is the author basically has carte blanche when it comes to the story. Anything goes, if it's made to be believable.

Within contemporary books, it's easy to just begin the story, but with paranormal sometimes the world has to be set so we can truly fall into that new world. I found with Alasdair it took quite awhile for me to get immersed into this world. The story started but took awhile to build up. However, once it was built I was more hooked within the story.

Alasdair, is a very powerful vampire, especially being first sire to Vasilios. He's also one who doesn't stray far from his norm, until he sets eyes on Leo Chapel.

There's something intriguing about Leo, that has Alasdair drawn and confused. The closer he becomes with Leo, the less that makes sense to him and his world. Leo, doesn't have a hot clue what is going on, but one thing he does know is that he is explicitly drawn to Alasdair. The more he learns the more he's drawn, even though what he learns should cause him to run as far as way as possible.

As the story goes on, and the more we find out about this world the more the sexual tension builds between Alasdair and Leo.

"First, you terrorize me, then you kidnap me, and now, you're hell-bent on destroying my life. If this is your version of playing with your food, I think you've taken it far enough."

As the heat is rising between these two, so is the beginning of the truth of what is to come.

"You want to fuck me? Then shut up and fuck me. But you can look at me while you do it. You don't get to forget my face once you're done with me come sunrise."

However, it all ends to soon and we are left waiting for more.

Did I eventually fall into this world and like it? Yes. Am I choked with the ending? Yes, a bit as cliff hangers can be unnerving at times. However, it's left me wanting more, so I will DEFINITELY be reading the next book to see how it all transpires. Did I like Alasdair and Leo? Yes, very much, but I'm still not sure about Vasilios yet. Did I like the Greek language within the story? Yes and no. Yes, because it always adds something to the story but no because I didn't have a clue what any of the terms meant since my kindle nor itranslate were able to translate it for me. A legend would have been helpful in this situation.

3. 5 Sexually Charged thumbs up!

*** ARC provided to Bayou Book Junkie via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***

Alasdair is a 2000+ years old vampire and lately he's been rather preoccupied with a man he can't take off his mind. He's not your usual vampire, either, he likes to push himself to the limit, he's picky about who he feeds from, on who he comes close to, he's always in control, so being so attracted to this blond man who he's been following is out of the norm for him. He decides enough is enough and that he needs to end this once and for all, but to his surprise when he tries to kill Leo it is just the start of it all.

Leo Chapel is a curator at a museum, and has been having strange dreams for a few weeks, the last thing he expected to find in one of those dreams was a vampire feeding from him or to feel so attracted to said vampire, despite fearing for his life. Only there's more to Leo than being the human Alasdair can't get out of his head.

This was a good start to the series, I loved the lore and all the research that must have gone into writing vampires in a fairly original way. The idea of having Ancient vampires and their first Sired, aside from the other more regular kind of vampires, and the threat to their existence in the form of Leo and his friends Elias and Paris, is very intriguing, and while a good set-up, a lot of key questions were left unanswered, which I hope will be addressed in the other books in the series.

I didn't particularly cared for the other vampires that weren't Alasdair, especially Vasilios, but I'm interested in finding out how all these characters stories are interwoven and how it will play out in the future, especially after that very evil cliffhanger there at the end. Even if next book is Isadora's, I really hope we get enough Alasdair and Leo in it, there was not enough of them together in this one. The chemistry between Alasdair and Leo was so palpable, each of them unable to stay away, despite everything that was against them. I really wish we'd have more of them together in this book. Still, this was a great, different read, and of course, coupled with Ella's writing, you can't go wrong.

Rating: 4.5 Stars