Review: Loved it!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 22, 2013
Despite Hainted being Jordan L. Hawk's first novel, I actually read it after Widdershins and the SPECTR books. And I can't believe it took me that long because I absolutely loved it. The world-building is fantastic, seamlessly blending paranormal elements into an otherwise true-to-life setting. I've never been anywhere near North Carolina, but Hawk succeeded in transporting me there. I didn't even have to try. On the paranormal side of things, I found the haints genuinely creepy and really enjoyed the magic and lore she wove through the story.Of course, the whole thing hinges on the characters and I was not disappointed in the slightest. Both Dan and Leif were very likable and compelling, with emotions that rang true and a wonderful level of tension. The sex was hot, the character interaction delightful, and the love story believable. I also appreciated that the sex didn't overwhelm the plot, which was fully realized and not just window dressing for the romance.Hawk is one of my favorite m/m writers and I love all her books, but Hainted might edge the others out as my favorite. It's an excellent read.