Now, I know exactly what you’re thinking, “Not another vampire.” Yes, all the signs are there, but I adamantly refute the title. I am a Nightling. Not any insignificant Nightling though. I am Catalina, Queen of the Nightlings. Still confused? It’s easy to understand why. Fangs, bloodsucking power, and ageless beauty. Yes, I possess all the telltale signs of your classic vamp. Alas, I am not one of those adrenaline-sucking egomaniacs.
So, what exactly is a Nightling, you ask? Over the centuries we have been called many names. Succubus, Lorelei, seductress, mantrap, siren, enchantress, lady of the night, the list goes on and on. Any of those ring a bell? Let me explain.
The realm of bloodsuckers is not as black and white as the world has always thought. To be truthful, besides our choice of chemical needs, we are quite alike. Let me break it down so there is absolutely no confusion.
I am an ancient creature. I was born as I am. Others have been made, but not me. I have fangs that retract, which are capable of extracting the hormone oxytocin from the human bloodstream. My razor-sharp fangs work two ways. First, they extract the hormones I need to survive, and second, they pump back in the blood you will most definitely need. However, I have complete control as to whether I give back the fundamental fluid. I usually do. Usually.
Oxytocin is the hormone that is secreted when the body feels pleasure, arousal, or passion. Enter the succubus. The hormone keeps me strong, fed, and eternally beautiful. On the other hand, vamps extract adrenaline from their victims, which is why they use fear to extract the chemicals they need. And yes, they have the power to return the human blood as well, but they are a grumpier sort of monster.
Death does not come easy to either of us. Light, crosses, and holy water are completely useless. However, garlic does taint the blood, and vamps say it inhibits the manufacturing of adrenaline. I think they just like to whine about anything they can.
As far as I know, death only comes from dismemberment. However, my bones are as strong as steel, and my skin like marble. You really have to piss off one of your own kind to get killed. I generally try to avoid such situations. The phrase, “I’m a lover not a fighter” was originally coined by me.
TK Lawyer –
A sensual, sexual, stimulating ride!
Caution: This book is not for the faint of heart. Catalina Purdy, the heroine in the story, has a truly insatiable appetite, not only for the chemicals she needs to survive but for sex too (both men and women). Her quest for the second pearl lands her in many compromising situations and eventually, straight into the arms of a past lover, Dorian- a male that really gets her blood pumping.
This story is a quick, enjoyable read. Vivid, action-packed scenes will draw you in if Catalina’s wit doesn’t. Catalina is a real, no-nonsense, Nightling with a good heart and readers will find themselves clamoring to be on her side and rooting for her all the way past the end of the book.
Luminosity Publishing –
4 STARS: Lady Erynn’s Honest Reviews
As far as short stories go, this one is full of great information. It’s written from Catalina’s point of view, which gives us an inside look into the life of a supernatural queen. She is ageless, sexy, cunning, and knows exactly what she wants and how to get it. She is not above using her sexual powers as a distraction, and the world is in the palm of her hand.
The dialogue moves the story along appropriately, the setting is well described, and the numerous sex scenes are imaginative and descriptive without being too vulgar. I also felt like the sex was used with a purpose, and Catalina was in full control the entire time.
Overall, I give it a 4 of 5. It’s very well done for a short story…especially one with as much sex in it as this one has. There’s no tacky sex-talk, and all the scenes feel real and natural. Well, as natural as you can be with supernatural beings. As for Catalina…well, it’s good to be the queen!
Review by Lady Erynn Lady Erynn’s Honest Reviews