Nancy GideonAnmeldelser

I wanted to like this book better. It had a lot going for it. The writing was well done. The werewolf part was interesting. The way he had been manipulated as he grew up to keep him emotionally dependent on the mob boss was interesting although it made him a bit too beta for my taste. The way he was so crazy about her was nice although it caused him to forgive her for all her doubts and betrayals. It seemed there was no real reason for him to love her beyond hot sex.

I didn't care for the heroine's character. Not only did she keep betraying and doubting him, she could not commit. Her being a cop covering for a mob boss (Max once he inherited the position) was just problematic for me and she didn't seem real strong, all her strength seemed to be mere posturing. We are also told she is really physically strong but not given any reason that she has iron fists.

The biggest thing I have against it though was it was one betrayal after another. Mostly Charlotte telling Max she loved him then betraying him. This must have happened 6 or so times in the book. I just got to skimming at the end because I was so sick of it.

When the book ends they have made up again but considering the way the book went, that reconcilliation will last at most 2 days. Where is the HEA in that. I don't believe this relationship will last. Surely as some point, he will get tired of her doubting crap.

At the back of the book there is an excerpt of the next book and the first thing she does is doubt him when a girl turns up missing. I won't be reading any more of this series. I don't really care for series where the main characters repeat and I certainly don't care to read about characters who waffle on trust and commitment over the course of several books.

Masked by Moonlight
4 Stars

Detective Charlotte “Cee Cee” Caissie is determined to bring down crime boss, Jimmy Legere, the man responsible for her father’s murder. Her best bet is to turn his enigmatic henchman, Max Savoie, against him. However, Max’s loyalty runs deep and has its roots in a dark secret that, if exposed, could implicate him in a series of disturbing murders.

Traumatic childhood experiences have molded both Cee Cee and Max into the people they are now. While Cee Cee’s past has made her strong, there is also an underlying sense of vulnerability that makes her very sympathetic. That said, her attitude toward Max leaves much to be desired and her behavior is often irritating. In fact, there are moments where she is actually unlikable.

Max is simply incredible. He is so sweet and loving toward Cee Cee (who isn’t always deserving), but it is impossible to forget exactly what he is and the danger that he poses. Thankfully, his secret is revealed early on so the story avoids the pitfalls of the exceedingly annoying "keeping secrets” trope. There is, however, an incongruity in his characterization as his relationship with Legere undermines his alpha status and makes him appear weak and submissive. Moreover, he doesn’t always exhibit the intelligence that he is credited with and has one or two TSTL moments.

The banter between Cee Cee and Max is wonderful and their romance is intense and steamy. The rest of the plot is quite straightforward although certain twists are predictable, such as the identity of the villain and the fact that Jimmy played a part in the death of Max’s mother.

All in all, Masked by Moonlight is a promising beginning to a series that has definite potential and it will be interesting to see where Gideon takes her troubled characters and their unlikely romance.

Chased by Moonlight
3.5 Stars

The romance between Detective Charlotte “Cee Cee” Caissie and newly minted crime boss, Max Lavoie, is progressing at a natural pace (that is to say all hot and heavy), when Max becomes the prime suspect in a series of murders targeting those closest to a local politician. In order to maintain her objectivity, Charlotte must distance herself from Max, but work behind the scenes to clear his name. Unfortunately, Max has dark secrets that are not helping the situation…

The story is enjoyable despite my problems with Charlotte running first hot then cold. She is obviously not as emotionally invested in the relationship as Max although she does seem to be getting there slowly. In terms of Max’s characterization, the dominant/submissive inconsistency persists and I hope that it is resolved soon as it undermines his alpha hero status.

A certain amount of suspension of disbelief is required with the plot as there is a clear conflict of interest in Charlotte’s ongoing connection with Max. That said, the investigation is good and the revelation of the villain (although unsurprising) is exciting. The overall story arc is developing in an interesting direction with more details on Max's past, which may have far reaching consequences on his future.

The secondary characters are starting to grow on me as well. I was naughty and took a peek at the blurbs for future books, and it looks like the series switches from focusing on Max and Charlotte to other couples from book #5 onwards. I probably continue at least until then, especially since I’m a sucker for a global conspiracy.

Bound by Moonlight
4 Stars

With the relationship between Charlotte Caissie and her lover, Max Savoie, out in the open, the detective and former crime boss are hopeful for their future together. Unfortunately, their fledgling happiness is put to the test when a serial killer targets the daughter of a fellow officer and Charlotte puts a strain on their romance by asking Max not only to accept that outsiders are aware of his secret, but to use his abilities to aid a hated enemy. Will their love for each other prevail?

Although Max and Charlotte are more open and honest about their feelings for one another, there is still a great deal of tension and hurtful words thrown about, which suggests they still have a long way to go before they are a truly unified couple. Nevertheless, their relationship is intense both physically and emotionally, and you cannot help rooting for their happily ever after (if it ever comes).

There are few developments in the overall story arc as the majority of the plot focuses on the serial killer investigation and on Max’s insecurities regarding Charlotte’s past with her partner, Alain Babineau. The murder mystery is well-developed and it is exciting to see Charlotte in all out “cop mode”. The friction between Max and Alain is also compelling and a great deal is revealed about each man. Suffice it to say that Babs does not come off well and my annoyance with him, which began in the previous book, increases exponentially. Similarly, my affection for Tina has diminished as a result of her actions, and it is clear that she and Alain deserve one another...

A couple of new characters are introduced and the series will be moving in a new direction with the next book. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens.

Captured by Moonlight
4 Stars

Crime boss, Max Savoie, and Homicide Detective, Charlotte Caissie’s personal and professional lives are put to the test when a threat from Max’s unknown past raises its ugly head and hits a little too close to home.

After a rocky start (mainly due to Charlotte’s prickly personality), the series is living up to its potential with a story arc that becomes more gripping with each installment and a romance that only increases in depth and intensity.

As the book begins, Max and Charlotte's relationship is still one step forward two steps back. This is annoying at first as they are constantly sniping at each other only to forgive and forget. Nevertheless, they ultimately face each and every obstacle head on and end up a solid couple willing to do what it takes to be together. Whether or not this trend continues remains to be seen.

The progression of the overall story arc raises intriguing questions concerning Max’s true nature and leads to some action packed moments as well as a particularly heart-pounding climax. Moreover, the final scenes of the book are amazing and actually had me tearing up.

In terms of the secondary characters, Jacques and Giles continue to impress and Babineau’s family are endearing, especially little Ozzie. Unfortunately, Babs himself is beginning to grate on my nerves and there is one scene in particular that made me question is honor and integrity.

All in all, Moonlight is one of those series that raises angst to a new level and results in readers either adoring the characters and the plots or wanting to throw the book against the wall. The more I read, the more it seems I will eventually join the ranks of the former rather than the latter.

I receive this book in exchance of an honest review.

This book is really easy to read. It is perfect for someone who want to start writing has a career. It is mostly tip on how to start your business and how to budget your time and money.

This book is a bit different than other paranormal romances I have read. The first difference is the characters. The hero is the physical epitome of an Alpha male but his personality and brain were definitely not Alpha male. Max is an odd juxtaposition that I really liked reading, he is sensitive and broken in a way that makes him endearing to the reader. He is a bad guy yet he has a conscience and reservations about his evil ways once he starts taking the role of Alpha. Our heroine is also completely different than the norm. She is strong, kick-ass, and all about mowing down people who get in her way, to include the delicious Max.

Secondly, I think the relationship between Max and Cee Cee is a tad unlikely, I don't see a normal cop and a normal criminal becoming and item, the sex, maybe, but the love, probably not. I am not saying that it's bad, I just can't see it happening.

Anyway, I love the setting of this story, I love the southern mystery feel of the drama and the super evil mob boss. I really enjoyed the usual copy banter between Cee Cee and her partner as well. This is a great read, can't wait to see what else is in store for Cee Cee and Max.

This book is very good. The story is about Alex Caufield investigating an arson that sent his father to prison. He is closing in on the Parrish family but doesn't anticipate meeting Mel Parrish, a fire jumper who will risk everything for fellow fire jumpers. The twists and turns in this relationship and Alex's investigation are many.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson:
*eARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review

I think this might be my favorite book of the series. Don't get me wrong, I've loved Max and the gang, but there was just something about this installment that grabbed me and wouldn't let go. I actually think I know what it was... I read & enjoy Paranormal Romance a lot, but I always tend to gravitate back to Urban Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Horror, and Thriller, and quite frankly, the darker the better. This installment of the Moonlight series was definitely darker, grittier, more dangerous, and had a plot rife with twists... and I simply loved it!

Cale Terriot, or hero, is completely caught up in the dark world of his father's making as possible heir to the Terriot throne. While deep in his heart he yearns for so much more, he does what must be done, no matter how grave.

Kendra loved Cale as a child, but after her family was destroyed she blames the family for her loss and fears that Cale has turned into his father... or worse.

The Prince of Shadows tale is all about Cale playing a very dangerous game - trying to prove his love to Kendra, while keeping up appearances with his father and family - all the while just trying to stay alive. It kept me on the edge of my seat and was deliciously entertaining.

LITERAL ADDICTION gives Prince of Shadows 5 Skulls. While I do suggest reading the entire MOONLIGHT series, Prince of Shadows easily stands well on its own as a great read.

BETRAYED BY SHADOWS by Nancy Gideon is an interesting paranormal romance. Book 7 in the "By Moonlight" series. It is a steamy story set in New Orleans. While this is book 7 in this series, I had no trouble keeping up with the story line, characters, or plot. A compelling,steamy story of love,romance, passion,danger,intrigue,shapeshifters, and hidden,dark secrets. This is my first by this author but it will not be my last. With a spellbinding cast,intrigue,a strong plot, sizzling passion,and supernatural elements,what's not to enjoy. Fast paced and filled with action,and spine bounding suspense. A must read for anyone who enjoys paranormal,romance,shapeshifters,and suspense. Received for an honest review from the publisher. Details can be found at the author's website,Pocket Star,Simon & Schuster and My Book Addiction and More.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: SIZZLING
REVEIWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews½

Captured By Moonlight is the third installment of Nancy Gideon's Moonlight series. Max Savoie, a pureblood shape-shifter, is settling in as the new crime boss of New Orleans and king of the city's shifter population. The love of his life is the very human police detective Cee Cee Caissie. Max and Cee Cee are emotionally damaged characters, consumed by a forbidden, passionate and very dangerous relationship. In this book there is a depth to the characters we haven't seen before. You can feel their anguish as they battle to love and protect each other and stay true to themselves.

The story is dark, suspenseful and action-packed. After a young shifter is tortured and killed by what could only be supernatural means, Max knows he is being hunted by powerful shifters from the north sent to destroy him, the same ones his father warned him about. He soon discovers a family secret and realizes there is another shifter being targeted, one he must protect at all costs. The action leads to a thrilling and heart wrenching climax. The story's conclusion was satisfying but left some questions unanswered, leaving an opening for future books in the series. Captured By Moonlight is an original shape-shifter tale that fans of paranormal romance will enjoy. The author does a good job providing background information from the first two Moonlight books, but readers would enjoy this one more if the series was read in order.

This is a fantastic beginning to the Moonlight series. The plot had many twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end. The characters are compelling. Cee Cee and Max are troubled souls on opposite sides of the law. They're haunted by the past and longing to reach out to someone who would understand their pain. I loved Max Savoie. He was different than your typical paranormal romance hero. Sure, he was sexy, protective and strong, but he also seemed vulnerable with little identity and very few personal possessions of his own. His entire existance was controlled by Jimmy Legere until Cee Cee came into his life. Hot, passionate sex was easy between them, but learning to trust one another was far more complicated. I'd also like to say that I thought Max's shifting ability was unique, but I will let you discover the details on your own. This dark, suspenseful tale should not be missed!

When I was offered this book for review I was a little hesitant because I had not read any other books in this series and was worried about being lost in the story. Luckily Nancy does give enough information that I could follow along with the plot, but I could tell there were holes in the backstory that I knew I was missing. I understand the mythology behind the shifters and the humans, but the Ancients and the Chosen are a still a little fuzzy. That is by no means the fault of the author. I am pointing it out because I would not recommended doing what I did by coming in at this point in the series. I would start from the beginning so there would not be any confusion.

In Seeker of Shadows the main characters are a Chosen, Susanna and a shifter, Jacques. I was drawn to this story because I love when we follow lovers who have had a past already and these two definitely have a difficult history to work through. Susanna made a choice seven years ago to try and save Jacques life, but in doing so he had to lose all his memories of her. So when he crosses paths with Susanna he has no idea that she is actually the mate that he longs to find. From the moment the two of them see each other I could not wait for everything to come out and watch how they dealt with it. The situation was so exciting and intense and I relished watching it all unfold in front of me.

The action in this book starts right from the beginning and is a solid presence all the way to the last page. There seemed to be danger around every corner and I was not quite sure where the next attack was going to come from. The Chosen stop at nothing to get what they want and they wanted something the shifters had. I was not quite sure what it was at first, but it was fun to try and piece together all the mysteries that arose in this book.

While the action was intense so was the romance. Jacques has no memories of what he and Susanna shared, but she does. She has lived with it for seven years and has been missing him every second. She does not want to give into her feelings for Jacques again, but being around him all the time makes it very difficult not too. Jacques has not been dealt the easiest hand in life and he could have easily taken the bitter rout, but he remained very sweet and takes care of those that he has come to care about. He does often try to hide his kindness behind a tough exterior, but he could not keep that tender side from Susannah for long. She and Jacques were burning up the pages and had me rooting for them to work through all the issues keeping them apart.

The ending of the book was the only point where I wanted a little more. Everything got resolved rather quickly and I wanted to see our characters settle in a little more than they were. However, since it seems that Nancy weaves past novels characters into current ones, I am hoping we will get to see more from Susannah, Jacques and Pearl in future novels. There are quite a few unresolved issues at the end of the book. Now that I have discovered this world I will definitely be back to see how events play out. I will also be going back to read this series from the beginning to fill in the gaps that I missed.

Overall, Seeker of Shadows was a solid paranormal romance read. There were well developed characters that I enjoyed getting to know, the action was exciting and the romance was hot! I am very happy to have discovered this world and will definitely be reading more from Nancy. I would recommend checking this series out to anyone who loves a good paranormal read.

The next book in the Moonlight series is finally here! The action is more intense and the reader has the opportunity to know the characters even better. Silas is the newest character. He desires getting his clan back up to their correct status in the shifting world. His goal is admirable, but will not be easy to achieve.

Monica is controlled by an enigma with skeletons in the closet. She will need Silas' help to escape the hold this man appears to have on her. When the two realize that their individual missions connect perfectly, the sparks begin to fly. There is an instant connection between the two of them right after seeing each other for the first time-a bit of a teaser for the reader. Monica acts like such a tough cookie most of the time, it will entertain and please the reader to see her slowly fall for Silas. Silas is actually more calm and collected than Monica-a nice change from the typical neanderthal male love interest.

This book is perfect for any reader who has enjoyed the first few in the series and/or loves paranormal romance. The events were interesting and fast-paced, the ending was slightly unexpected, and the characters are very likable to the reader.

This is the fourth book in the series and a wonderful addition. I think this one can be read by itself since the author quickly brings you up to speed in the first chapter. Max is a criminal enforcer with a strong sense of integrity, quick intelligence except when it comes to women and the ability to become wolf. CeeCee is on the police force and she likes to get things done even if it doesn't strictly follow procedure after she comes into contact with Max. There are some serious sparks that fly between the two and I am so glad that CeeCee has lightened up a bit. Max drove me up the wall in this relationship since for someone as strong as him, he can't believe that she is interested in him. They both must come together though to save innocent lives. I really hope that I will read more about these two since the ending left me wondering.

I LOVE this series. The hero Max Savoie is like no other hero I’ve read before and he just leaps off the page with his presence. A bit of background for those who haven’t read the first few books. Max was the ‘enforcer’ for a very influential, very bad crime lord. Jimmy Legere ‘rescued’ Max when he was just a child hiding in the swamps of Louisiana after his mother was brutally murdered. But Max wasn’t an ordinary child; he was a shape shifter who because of circumstances didn’t know anything about his heritage. Jimmy used Max, aimed him, pointed him, and sent him after anyone in Jimmy’s way and Max was so grateful to Jimmy, he would have done anything for him.

This was the situation at the start of the first book, Masked by Moonlight. It begins when Max meets up with Charlotte Caissie or CeeCee, a detective with the NOPD. Max’es loyalties are tested. The first three books are wonderful and CeeCee and Max try and work out a relationship with both of them on either side of the legal fence.

Max is, well, Max is unique. He’s a criminal with a strong sense of right and wrong and a sense of loyalty that won’t quit. And he is so totally wrecked for the heroine. He doesn’t see how she can love him as he considers himself part monster and in some ways he is. He breaks the readers heart with his damaged soul. When he is in his animal form, he almost repulsive, but so broken up by who and what he is when he’s not. The author never really explains what animal he is, but whatever it is, Max has powers that no other has; powers that even he isn’t aware of. He is so lost as to what he is considering his mother died when he was very young before having a chance to explain what he is and his father is a mystery.

CeeCee comes from an equally horrific background. Second generation cop, she was captured, held prisoner and tortured when she was young and it was in fact Max who saved her, though she hadn’t been aware of it until after the start of the first book.

In some ways, these books can be compared somewhat to the In Death books by JD Robb in that both heroines are cops and both heroes are or were part of the criminal element. But in other ways they are vastly different. Unlike Eve Dallas, CeeCee doesn’t have the same moral code when it comes to police duties. She’s a rule bender with an attitude that the ends justifies the means and Max, unlike Roarke, is still involved in the criminal element. And he’s not a cultured or suave as Roarke. And unlike Roarke he is very conflicted about everything except those he is loyal to.

All this so far and I haven’t even got to this particular book. But I’ve very enthused about this series and background is needed. As this book opens up, CeeCee and Max are finally taking their relationship to a more open level. They have shown up together at a charity event. As one can imagine, this sends shock waves throughout both the criminal and cop element. CeeCee is called away to work on a case where women have been kidnapped, tortured and murdered. When the daughter of a rather bully of a cop disappears, CeeCee fears she has been taken by the serial killer and races to find her. Because of some of Max’s supernatural powers and his more than willingness to bend rules and out and out break the law, he helps CeeCee in unobtrusive ways. But he has history with the bully cop. Which makes for some wonderful conflict.

Unlike the other books in this series, we don’t learn too much more about Max’s mysterious background. Rather this is more concentrated on solving the case as well as CeeCee and Max trying to establish the boundaries of their relationship.

There is a real shocker of a twist towards the end that I did not see coming and I think will have huge ramifications in future books. Books I will be reading.

For me, this is a great addition in a great series and it gets a real thumbs up from me for a very unforgettable hero.

This is my second book by Ms. Gideon in her "Moonlight" series. I missed the second book and that did cause me some issues in reading Bound by Moonlight. While I suppose it could stand alone when actions and events that occurred in the past are referenced a reader just has a desire to know more. I suppose that is what drives the sales of books...

In this book police detective Charlotte Caissie and her shape shifter boyfriend Max come out in public as a couple. He has ties to organized crime so their pairing is uncomfortable for her co-workers. It is also uncomfortable for Max's clan who do not trust "uprights." Something is coming for Max and his brother but they don't what - and Max doesn't know the full extent of his powers as he was sold as a child by his father and never was trained.

Charlotte and her partner are investigating a serial rapist/killer and she needs Max's help. Will his help come at a price?

I enjoyed this book but in regards to the ongoing relationship with Max and Charlotte it left a lot hanging. The subplot of the serial rapist/killer was wrapped up quite well and with a good twist thrown in at the end. I do like these characters despite my tendency to not care for paranormal books. This is a VERY sexy book though so be aware of that. Max is a very caring man; concerned for his people and trying to feel his way in a dual role. Charlotte loves a man who is very different and who is very much a bad boy. He saved her from a very bad situation.

I will now try to find the book in the middle that I missed and look forward to future adventures. A little escapism makes for a good read.½

If you are a reader who enjoys passionate encounters and steamy love scenes than this is the book for you. The characters are right on for a great romance. A cute, pretty heroine who is deeply in love with the male character; a male character who is handsome and strong beyond reason. The reader will be rooting for the couple through the entire book. The loves scenes are explicit, but they are not half-measures; the author can make the reader feel the atmosphere and picture him/herself as one of the characters.

The plot, while not particularly innovative, is more than satisfactory for keeping the readers' interest and the pages turning. The reader will be immersed in a world where shape-shifting is possible and mixed with the typical human world. The book if a quick read and the dialogue ranges from humorous to deadly serious. The author doesn't skip over highly emotional scenes, but plays them out realistically. The dynamics between the differing characters is believable and there is a fine line of tension that the reader will be able to sense throughout the book-perfect, as the book concerns a detective.

The ending is great, as is typical in love stories. A reader who enjoys romance will be more than happy she/he bought and read this novel.

Police detective Charlotte Caissie has been trying to get evidence enough to bring down crime lord Jimmy Legere for years, but her investigations hit a snag when the attraction she's felt towards Legere's 'enforcer, Max Savoie, finally breaks loose.

I had some real problems with this book. The main characters are a police detective who's father, also a detective, was murdered in front of her because of his investigations into the crime lord, Legere's, business. Complicating matters is the fact that Charlotte and her best friend were kidnapped, raped, tortured and held for ransom when they were 18 or 19 yrs old, but men in Legere's investigation. Clearly a woman who has been through a lot and who's driven by vengeance. She also claims to have a strong sense of right and wrong, being fiercely devoted to her job of finding and punishing those who do wrong, yet when Legere's muscle, Max, murders two men in front of her, she's simply so relieved that he's saved her that she falls even more in lust than before. AND THEN COVERS FOR HIM WHEN HIS NAME COMES UP IN THE INVESTIGATION.

I simply cannot buy a police detective and a guy HEAVILY involved in underworld crime being so much in love that they can overlook the fact that their jobs - who they are - are on opposite sides of right and wrong.

Character motivation is completely off, and I spent sooo much of this story scoffing with disgust over the character's justification of the moral and ethical implications of their lust affair.

However, if you're willing to overlook the vast improbability of the romance (and the fact that this guy's a shape-shifter), the chemistry and sex scenes are VERY hot!

And yes, I understand the silliness of my being able to accept a character being a shape-shifter, but not the relationship itself. Oh, well...½

love Max!

I wasn't exactly sure what I was in for when I started reading this one. There may be reviews for it, but they've passed me by. By reading the back cover blurb, it sounded like it could have been a paranormal and probably was, and yes, it is.

There is a whole lot I love about this book. But what really makes it a standout is one of the most shocking heroes I've ever read. He just about breaks your heart with his vulnerability towards the heroine.

This series could be compared to the In Death series in some ways I think. So far there are three books with Charlotte and Max and I really hope there will be more.

Charlotte, or CeCe is a cop in New Orleans. Years earlier she, along with her best friend, were held captive as a means to keep her father, a dedicated cop, from going after the leader of crime syndicate. They were finally rescued but only after unspeakable horrors were done to them. Her friend Mary Kate became a nun and CeCe became a cop who lives and breathes the job. After a particularly gruesome murder in which the name of the man she holds responsible for her father's death comes up, she goes to question him - again - as he seems to have his fingers in many of the crimes she investigates. His right hand man and enforcer Max is standing behind him as always. She has long had unwelcome feelings for Max, him being and enforcer for a crime syndicate and her being a cop. But they've only exchanged few words in the intervening years. But things are about to change.

What is so delicious about this book is Max is what he is - and then some. Yes, he's killed for Jimmy, his boss whom he also sees as a very strong father figure. He's a loner who has never had friends or lovers. And he's been in love with CeCe for years. And now that CeCe is starting to admit to her feelings for Max, he is torn between his love for Jimmy and his love for CeCe.

But Max is not really human. He's a shapeshifter with uncanny abilities as far as his senses go. But because of what he is, he is also such a lost soul. He is both good and while I wouldn't say evil exactly, he has done evil things. And he is so gone for the heroine. I love it when the hero is wrecked for the heroine.

CeCe is a great heroine. Once she opens up to her feelings for Max, she will do anything for him including putting her job at risk. Although human, she's more than a match for Max and she is just as wrecked for him as he is for her. The chemistry between these two is off the charts and I'm more than excited to keep reading this very unusual series. All I can say about this one is WoWzers.

Masked by Moonlight is the first in a hot new trilogy by Nancy Gideon. I killed this book in two days- it was impossible to set down. I was devoured by the main characters as Gideon laced the pages with brilliant chemistry between Max and Charlotte. Max with his tall, dark and wolfish good looks works as muscle for the local mob boss, Jimmy Legere. Charlotte is a police officer- one with daddy issues. As she scours the streets for her father's killer, she stops crime one evil SOB at a time. Under any other circumstances, these two wouldn't find themselves in the midst of a passionate endeavor, but Gideon delivers an action packed novel full of mystery and desire.

I found it easy to relate to our heroine, Charlotte, which is why I liked her so much. Watching her fight crime and deal with her life circumstances was enjoyable, to say the least. Max was just as fun to follow, making this an extremely entertaining couple. Although the chemistry between Max and Charlotte is undeniable, it occasionally felt coerced and I feel almost silly saying that as it was one of my most favorite aspects of the book. For the majority of the read, their chemistry popped right off the page. And I adore the obstacles and curve balls that Gideon throws at them, just to see them dodge one bullet after another.

Even if you're not passionate about reading romance, the plot will keep you flipping those pages. Really though, I think the romance between Max and Charlotte is enough to keep you on your toes. But the suspenseful, intriguing mystery just makes this one magnificent read. Maybe I went into this not expecting too much, as I truly thought nothing could top the previous book I'd read... However, Masked by Moonlight has depth, complexity and keeps the storing flowing so that I found it hard to become bored with the desire to skim. I loved that I had tons of questions, but enough answers that the story left me wanting to read more.

If you're into werewolves and or romance, you will love this one. And all of you Jacob Black fans have a gorgeous werewolf to dream about that isn't too young for ya. ;) Yep, brace yourself for an intense ride and clear some of your schedule because you won't be putting this one down! Chased by Moonlight, the second book in the Moonlight Trilogy, comes out June 29th and I'm excited to see where Gideon takes these characters next!

For more reviews and contests, check out my blog at RexRobotReviews.com

Masked By Moonlight is the first book in a new series. It’s the story of a romance that can’t be. Cee Cee is a detective working in New Orleans, and Max is the lackey of a known criminal. Cee Cee has spent much of her time attempting to put Max’s boss in jail because she believes he is connected to the death of her father. Cee Cee and Max share an intense connection, and the sparks between them fly. Obviously a relationship between a detective, and a criminal isn’t something that should happen. Cee Cee’s obsession with bringing down Max’s boss who also happens to be his father figure complicates things with this love connection even more.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I did enjoy reading it, but had difficulty connecting with Cee Cee. She was always so angry. I understand that she was wronged in her past, but I wish she would have lightened up just a little. Max I liked a little more than Cee Cee. He was vulnerable to the point of being almost pathetic at times. My dislike of the two main characters did lessen as the book progressed, and they evolved as characters. I’m sure some will really enjoy this book. As of now I’m unsure if I’ll read the next book in the series. I am curious about what will become of Cee Cee and Max’s turbulent relationship. I’m just not sure if I can handle all the angst that seems to accompany it. It is a well written book with an excellent premise. I just wish I would have found the main characters more likable.

Masked by Moonlight is a very good addition to the paranormal romance genre. Dark, well-written, angst-filled and sexy - I was never bored with it.

Despite by general wariness of romance plots hat revolve around mob intrigue, I found the storyline interesting and not the least off-putting. There were a few lines here and there that seemed somewhat superfluous, flowery or not at all fitting with what one would believe coming from the characters' mouths (or anyone's mouth in real life, for that matter) but, fortunately, such instances were few. The mob drama was very believable and it tempered the fantasy of the story's shape-shifter elements well.

Every character in Gideon's book is well-drawn and constitutes a vital contribution to the story. It would have been very easy for the author to use caricatures here instead of well-fleshed out characters, given the mob theme and all. It's not that any of the characters in Masked are utterly unique in any way, but they relate so honestly to one another that most of the obvious stereotypes and cheesy lines are avoided. This is especially true for the hero, Max Savoie.

There's no way to read this book and not fall a little in love with Max. In many ways, he's the typical Alpha-male. Strong, sexy and smart, he carries most of the romance bit on his shoulders. What makes him a standout hero, though, is his vulnerability. Max is not the trusting sort. In fact, he only trusts two people in the novel - his father figure and boss, Jimmy Legere, and the only woman he's ever loved, Detective Charlotte 'Cee Cee' Caissie. Given the facts that his trust is an utter gift and he personifies genuineness and loyalty, you'd think that these two individuals would appreciate it. What they actually do is consistently abuse his devotion, causing Max to be confused and hurt and inspiring readers to like him all the more. If it wasn't for the great hero that Gideon has written in Max, I would have put the book down before I made it even halfway through due to my frustrations with our heroine.

Cee Cee is absolutely infuriating at times. Her indecision and consequential bad decisions regarding Max are understandable up to a point. Her past suffering at the hands of mobster co-workers of Max's just barely excuses some of this for her. But, in the end, her pains do excuse her. Cee Cee's position with the New Orleans Police Department, as well as her personal grievances, are unfathomable obstacles to her romance with Max. I couldn't say that I would behave any differently in her situation. That said, the great love scenes would have been even hotter had I sympathized with Cee Cee a touch more...

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Max is tall, dark, and handsome with a wolfish grin - literally. He also just so happens to serve as the muscle for mob boss, Jimmy Legere. Charlotte is your typical "good" cop out to discover her father's killer while ridding the streets of evil one creep at a time. Under any other circumstance, we probably wouldn't see these two having much to do with one another unless one was trying to kill the other. In Nancy Gideon's MASKED BY MOONLIGHT, however, we get to see them in an action packed story full of mystery and passion.

Charlotte and Max are a fun couple to read about. Charlotte is fairly relatable to your average female reader and I found following her to be pretty entertaining. Max is super attractive and definitely a guy we wouldn't mind getting to stare at over coffee. Put the two together and it's like Ms. Gideon created an explosion of romance on the pages. The chemistry between these two is definitely one of the highpoints to me, although I will say that at times it almost felt forced. The relationship between Max and Charlotte was thrown impossible curve balls and yet still they manage to overcome them. I'll be excited to see where Ms. Gideon takes these characters in the second book in the Moonlight Triology, Chased by Moonlight.

Aside from the romance, passion, and the neverending question of what will happen in Max and Charlotte's relationship, the underlying mystery and drama of the book makes for a fantastic read. The story is complex, holding multiple layers of depth, without being overly so. It is very easy to follow, but not so simple that your mind gets lazy and sleepy. Max and Charlotte both have questions from their past and it seems that the answers converge. Is there more to the story than either of them know? Ms. Gideon leads us through the book, easily hooking us with dynamic characters and her development of the plot. She throws questions at us, gives us a few answers and then tosses more questions our way. There really isn't a single moment in MASKED BY MOONLIGHT that leaves the reader feeling bored and ready to jump ahead.

I recommend this to any Paranormal and Romance fans out there. The passion in MASKED BY MOONLIGHT is intense and beautifully written, while the paranormal aspect of it gives it that feeling of "other" that readers find so compelling nowadays. Ms. Gideon appears to have a great series in the works here and there's no telling what she has up her sleeve for us next.