Angels of Darkness – Giveaway!
Ilona and Gordon and I recently received huge boxes of these books, so of course we’re giving some away to celebrate the release! I’m giving away five copies here, and they are doing the same on their blog. Entering is super easy, and the double giveaway gives you more chances to win!
So here’s the official bit on Angels of Darkness:
They soar through the night, unearthly creatures of legends and lore. Four masters of urban fantasy and paranormal romance explore the rapture of the heavens above and the darkness below…
Angel’s Wolf by Nalini Singh
In the spellbinding universe of the Guild Hunters, a vampire becomes obsessed with the seductive angel who rules the Louisiana territory. But in her court, all is not what it appears to be.Alphas: Origins by Ilona Andrews
A woman is kidnapped into a world divided by a superhuman civil war. As the captive of an irresistibly dangerous male, she has two choices: submit and become a pawn, or take hold of her own destiny.Nocturne by Sharon Shinn
Accepting a position in a secluded and whispered-about mansion, a woman soon discovers the source of its mystery: the blind, tormented angel who lives there, and whose secrets could now destroy them both.Ascension by Meljean Brook
When vampires disappear from a community he’s protecting, a world-weary Guardian doesn’t know what evil he’s hunting, but he’d rather hunt alone than accept help from his ex-lover and fellow Guardian, Radha. But Radha refuses to leave him, because she’s determined not just to help him save the community…but to save him.
Awesome, yes? Totally yes. I’m a squeeing fangirl of three of these authors, and I look in the mirror every day at the other one, so I’m thrilled by this anthology.
I always love writing shorter stories, simply because it gives me the opportunity to show bits of the world that we don’t see in the main novels of the series. In this story, I wanted to further investigate an idea that I touched on in Demon Marked (I’d say more, but it would spoil this novella). No complicated plot, just a simple mystery to solve, and reuniting two lovers who were the best characters to tell that story through.
I also loved that I finally got a chance to write Radha’s story. A warrior with a Gift of illusion and who dyes her skin blue, Radha hasn’t shown up in the Guardian series very much, but every time she does, I have such a fantastic time with her. This story wasn’t any different. She’s irreverent, sexy, fun, holds beliefs that no other Guardians hold (and doesn’t take herself too seriously about them, either) … and yet there’s always something in a woman’s past, isn’t there? In Radha’s case, there are several things in her past that she’d rather forget about, and after he broke her heart with a few stupid words, Marc Revoire nears the top of that list. Luckily, people can change and grow a brain — even if, like Marc, it takes them a hundred years to do it.
That’s it! Enter by Friday night, and go over to Ilona’s blog and check out her giveaway, too!
The small print: Comment by 11:59:59 PM Pacific time on 9/30/2011 for your chance to win. Five winners will be selected randomly using random.org, and their names posted on this blog 10/01/2011. Winners must provide Meljean with their mailing address by October 15, 2011 or the prize will be forfeit. Only one entry per ISP address. The contest is open to international readers. No purchase necessary to enter. A review of the book is always deeply appreciated. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited.
You want me to pick? sigh. If I have to pick, I think I’ll pick Wolf Signs by Vivian Arend. It is part of her Granite Wolves series, and it is soo good.
I actually have 2 favorite novellas: “Magic Mourns” from Ilona Andrews and your “Here There Be Monsters”. Both were novellas that got me started on the series. I’d been recommended the Kate Daniels series for a while by several friends, but it wasn’t until I read Andrea and Raphael’s story that I got hooked. (And may I say, I am SOOO excited about Andrea’s book next year – woo hoo!) “Here There Be Monsters” was only the second steampunk story I’d ever read, and I loved it. I was pretty bummed that I had to wait months for The Iron Duke, but in the end the wait was worth it!
Favorite novella? Wild by Jaci Burton from the Wild, Wicked and Wanton book. Verra, verra hot menage.
My favorite short story is Alpha and Omega, from On the Prowl by Patricia Briggs. I love that series, but the short story is especially tight, neat, and has such an engrossing arc that manages to accomplish a lot of action without appearing manufactured, or having unrealistic roadblocks being thrown into play.
Oh…. difficult…
I will have to name 2 and they’re both by Anne Bishop!
- Stands a God Within the Shadows
A really beautiful and touching (standalone) story based on the Lady of Shalott.
- The Prince of Ebon Rih
Part of the Black Jewels series.
Lucivar is my absolute favorite character!
I like so many novellas, but I guess my favorite would be the one I’ve re-read the most, right? By that standard it would be The Prince of Ebon Rih by Anne Bishop (part of the Black Jewels series). I just love Marian and Lucivar’s story!
Thanks for a great giveaway! One of my fave novella’s has to be Magic Mourn’s!
I love the short story “The Giftie Gie Us” in Timothy Zahn’s anthology “Cascade Point”. It’s a great post apocalypse type story, with a lovely little romance…and I have to say that the rest of the stories don’t disappoint either! They all really have something that just grab you.
Thanks for the chance to win
i really loved yours Here there be monsters.. also any of Nalini Singh or Ilona Andrews’ anthology shorts are awesome as well!! and i just read one of Jennifer esteps for her YA series that was really good. Oh! and Patricia briggs’ one that introduced us to Anna!
thanks so much for the contest!!!
I don’t read many novellas, mostly just ones by authors I already know and love. My TOTALLY unbiased answer to this question is Here There Be Monsters. I wasn’t convinced of the whole steampunk thing and after I read that I could not WAIT for The Iron Duke. I still wish that Eben and Ivy had a full length novel because I loved them so much. I’m kind of a sucker for any romance set on a ship though so…..
Second runner up is one called Daniel and the Angel in a Christmas anthology that I read every year and cry Every. Single. Time.
My favorite short story is “A sword of chaos” by Marion Zimmer-Bradley – part of the Darkover-World.
Too many!
The first that came in mind is “Cast in Moonlight” in “Harvest Moon” part of Michelle Sagara’s “Chronicles of Elantra”
My current favorite short story is “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. It started the Alpha and Omega series.
Hi! There are so many awesome short stories out there — by Ms. Brooks, Ilona Andrews, Kelley Armstrong, Sharon Shinn, Eileen Wilks… just to name a few of my favorite authors! I think my all-time favorite (at the moment) is “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs…. which is the beginning of her awesome spin-off series from the Mercy Thompson books. I really love the way she builds relationships — and she creates characters you just fall in love with and root for.
My favorite novella or short story is hard to say since I read So many series but I have to say this one story sticks in my mind. I think it was in a Bertrice Small Anthology, maybe Fascinated? The story was about a Duke’s spinster sister who was saying goodbye to her hopes and dreams of a HEA since she was about to turn 30. She was at a cabin alone reading her “sexy novels” she had collected over the years. It’s stormy and a military captain is stranded in the woods and seeks shelter at her cabin and catches her reading the books. It was such a touching story, I wish I could tell you the name but I can’t find it right now. It was a stand alone story but it stuck with me. She was so lonely and he sought her out after their cabin adventure. A lovely story set in Victorian England. Thanks for the giveaway — glittergirl54 at ymail dot com
I have not read many novellas and I am new to your books,but Iwould love to give them a try.
Since I don’t read a lot of short stories/novellas, the recent Ilona Andrews Magic Dreams story is one of my favorites.
I think that novellas are exteremely difficult to do well. The most recent novellas that I’ve read that I enjoyed were by Karen Chance; before that, ‘Here There Be Monsters’ introduced me to your writing!
Please count me in on this! Too bad Jill Myles wasn’t a contributor, it could have been called the “Oddshots book”…
Playing Easy to Get is my favorite novella, introduced me to Kresley Cole!
I would have to say the short stories in Must Love Hellhounds were incredibly awesome. I had already read stuff by Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh, and Charlaine Harris, but that was my introduction to your work.
Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs which is a spin off of the Mercy Thompson series and started its own new series or “Beat of Temptation” by Nalini Singh, part of the psy-changeling series
My favorite novella is the short story by Nalini Singh in An Enchanted Season which is part of her Psy/Changeling series.
My interesse in Scifi started with the film ‘Soylent Green’ The story telled in this movie is a classic and still one of my favorites.
It is about that on a overpopulated futuristic Earth (point of view from year 1973), a New York police detective is marked for murder by government agents when he gets too close to a bizarre state secret involving the origins of a revolutionary and needed new foodstuff.
The film and story is not part of a serie because it was in those days not a popular story. Now a days it is a cult-thing.
A novella, huh…. For me, it’s a toss-up between Patricia Brigg’s “Alpha and Omega”, a spinoff from the Mercy Thompson series, and Nalini Singh’s “Angels’s Pawn”, which features Ashwini and Janvier. I have to pick “Alpha and Omega”, though, just because I’ve re-read it more times.
Favorite short story? That’s a difficult one, because there are so many. I think I’d have to choose ‘A memory of stone’ by Michelle West. It’s part of her Essalieyan novels, but with characters that haven’t been introduced in the books.
I do have to agree with some of the others here, though. Patricia Briggs, Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews write excellent short stories as well.
I really enjoyed Hunter Kiss by Margorie M. Liu. It got me started on her series of the same name.
All time fav, hm, I have read some good ones, but I really fell for Unlocked by Courtney Milan and that is a standalone
Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel by Kim Harrison is my favorite short story. Her Rachel Morgen serries is on of my favorites.
It’s hard to choose, but I think one of my favorites is The Heart is Always Right by Lilith Saintcrow, from the Death’s Excellent Vacation anthology.
It’s not part of a series, but a standalone about a gargoyle.
I enjoy Lili’s books and stories and this was another good one.
I loved Patricia Briggs Alpha and Omega short. It was the start of a fantastic series!
Hmm. There are many choices near-the-top, but the one anthology novella whose story has stayed with me for years and who I can reread again and again and still like is Loretta Chase’s The Mad Earl’s Bride. It’s about a woman from the family as her heroine in the incredible Lord of Scoundrels. Saying anymore would spoil the plot that is as good as the characters. It’s in Three Weddings and a Kiss and also in the anthology Three Times a Bride – published 15 years later. How’s that for longevity ^^.
It’s only recently that I’ve started to appreciate short stories but I love all of Moira Rogers’ shorts – she packs so much humor, action, and sexiness into a really small space
Thanks for the giveaway!
smaccall AT comcast.net
“On the Prowl,” by Patricia Briggs, the beginning of the Alpha and Omega series. I love it because I get to see more of Bran! Charles and Anna are great, but it’s all about Bran.
Sign me up for this give away. I’m excited to read all of the shorts in this book. As for my favorite short story or stories…hmmm…I really enjoyed Patricia Briggs ALPHA AND OMEGA and absolutely love the series. I loved the shorts Ilona (and Gordon) did for ALPHA MENZ (released snippets), SILVER SHARK and THE SILENT BLADE. Other authors that have done shorts that I’ve liked include: Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nalini Singh, M.B. Forrester-Smythe and more.
Thanks for this opportunity! I’d have to say my favorite is also Alpha & Omega by Patricia Briggs as the start of that series. What has bummed me out now though is that I listen to the audiobooks and I’m always wishing I had that short in audio as well! My next fav. is Rina’s story from Nalini’s Psy-Changling (Whisper of Sin from Burning Up).
Looking forward to this set!
It’s hard to choose a favorite but ONE of my favorites is The Story of Son by J.R. Ward in the Dead After Dark anthology. It’s similar to, but not part of, her Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I can read this over and over.
My favorite novella changes from time to time. Depending on what I’m reading and what mood I’m in. I guess Silver Shark by Ilona Andrews if that counts…..and that one’s #2 of 2 so far, hoping to see more of that world later, but I know they’re very busy. If that one doesn’t count since it’s not officially part of an anthology, I’d say Story of Son by JR Ward…… It’s not officially part of her Black Dagger Brotherhood series, but it reads like one of them. Always wanted to see if they ever met up with one of the Brothers, or found another vampire hanging around.
Choosing a favourite short story? Not easy.
One of my favourites in a series is The Prince of Ebon Rih. It is part of the Black Jewels series.
I’m enjoying the new SF short stories of Ilona Andrews.
I have two favorites: “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs in the On the Prowl anthology which opened up a new series by the author. And, “Chaotic” by Kelley Armstrong in the Dates From Hell anthology set in her Otherworld series.
My favorite short story for the moment is “Kat” from Kelley Armstrong. It’s part of the Darkest Powers… Sort of.
I didn’t get the chance to buy all the anthologies on my list yet T^T
I love novellas that are a part of a series. You get this inside indepth snippet of small but impactful moments of your characters.
Woot, two chances to win! You and Ilona Andrews (the two of them) are AWESOME!!!! So excited for these collection of short stories!
Anyways, favorite short story at the moment is “Santa Claus is…” by Neil Gaiman, a stand-alone (actually a Christmas greeting card that he wrote) in Smoke & Mirrors (a collection of his short stories, highly recommended).
My favorite novella (I actually had to google it to make sure it was a novella) is Henry James’ Turn of the Screw. Creeeeeeepy. It’s a stand alone. You could think about this story endlessly and never come to conclusions (or at least I could).
I loved Rick The Brave by Stacia Kane in Home Improvement Undead Edition, despite it being the 11th story in the collection I ignored all the others (sorry) and went straight to it, I had to have my Downside fix.
I’m going to go with the popular vote of Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. I was so heart broken when I found I was going to have to wait so long for the next installment ;_;.
I have read every novella by you, J. Frost, Illona Andrews, N. Singh, Cynthia Eden and I couldn’t pick a favorite, they are all so awesome. I can’t wait for this anthology to come out!
I admit it – I also entered on Ilona’s blog and I’m doing a copy/paste.
Really looking forward to this one – it’s one of the few anthologies where I have read and loved every single one of the authors. Yay! I was able to narrow down my favs to 3:
“Even a Rabbit Will Bite” by Rachel Caine (Dark & Stormy Knights) – a dragon slayer trains her apprentice; the only one out of my favorites that isn’t a part of another series.
“Magic Dreams” by Ilona Andrews (Hexed) – Don’t mess with a smart girl – they will own your ass before you realize it was on clearance. Jim & Dali – awesomesauce
“Here There Be Monsters” by Meljean Brook (Burning Up) – read this after Iron Duke and so far it’s my favorite story set in that world. The scene in the bar with Ivy, Eben and the gun ranks as one of my favorite romance moments ever.
Either ‘Miss Congeniality’ by Shelly Laurenston in ‘When He Was Bad’ or ‘The Wolf, The Witch and Her Lack of Wardrobe’ in ‘Belong to the Night’ again by Shelly Laurenston. Both these books make me smile, if not laugh out loud.
i don’t typically read short stories, because i just end up frustrated, though i enjoyed some of them, like Nalini’s short story about Nathan and Tammy, as well as Angel’s Judgment. of course i really liked Silver Shark and Silent Blade, along with Magic Mourns
As I said earlier at Ilona Andrews blog it’s hard to only choose one but I really love Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs.
I absolutely adored Whisper of Sin by Nalini Singh in the anthology Burning Up. Ria and Emmett are some of my favorite characters. But other novellas from Ilona Andrews and Patricia Briggs are among my favorite as well.
Serena
Thanks for the contest! The stories that stick out for me are Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs, Here There Be Monsters by Meljean Brook, and Magic Mourns by Ilona Andrews. I enjoy novellas and stories in anthologies the most when they relate to a series I’m reading. Thanks again!
My favorite novella is probably “Beat of Temptation” by Nalini Singh. I love Nate and Tammy! But, I also love “Angels’ Pawn” and “Angels’ Judgment.” Huh. They are all Nalini Singh. Thing that means something?
I liked Carolyn Crane’s Kitten-Tiger and the Monk from the Wild & Steamy anthology, really got me interested in her work!
PN Elrod’s Strange Brew anthology has two stories I really love, Patricia Briggs’ Seeing Eye, and Rachel Caine’s Death Warmed Over. Also, Nalini Singh’s story in Must Love Hellhounds. I also agree that Patricia Briggs’ Alpha and Omega story is wonderful! As you see, I can’t really choose one single fabulous story….
I loved “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. Of course it got me started on her new series with Anna and Charles!
My favorite short story is Delicate Freakin Flower by Eva Langais it was a great story
I love Kresley Cole’s A Warlord Wants Forever. It’s the very beginning of her Immortals After Dark series and it’s what got me hooked on her…I mean, the stories, lol. I love her possessive males and her strong, yet tender hearted females, and of course, who can’t love the fated mate? The other part of your being that you live for? I have loved Kresley Cole’s books ever since and I am NEVER diappointed.
Magic Mourns by Ilona Andrews!
I loved Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs!
I loved Here There Be Monsters, I never thought I would like steampunk but you totally sucked me in. I also love Beat of Temptation by Nalani Singh!!
I don’t read that many novellas but what comes to mind is “Fear” by Stefan Zweig it was different and intense and made an impression on me.
My favorite is “Angels Pawn” by Nalini Singh in her guildhunter series. It features the vampire Janvier and hunter Ashwini and is a stand alone, this is one novella that gives us a starting glimpse of what’s to come.
Thanks SO much for the great giveaway!! I’m really looking forward to the release!!!
Hmmmmmmmm…hard to chose-but I’d have to say: your “Here There Be Monsters” and “Magic Mourns” from Ilona Andrews. <3
Can’t wait to read this! Thanks for the giveaway…
I have read so many it is hard to narrow it down to one. One of many I love is Alpha and Omega, from On the Prowl by Patricia Briggs. She s one of my favorite authors.
Beat of Temptation – Nalini Singh. I bought this because I had read at leas three of the Psy-Changeling series and was desperate for more by her, and Nate and Tamsyn (already mated in the series) intrigued me. I figured a nice love story of them getting together would be cute – what I didn’t expect for it to kind of hover up there at the top as my favorite story of the series. It shouldn’t. It doesn’t move the series on – it’s a prequel of sorts and based years before the main story but it’s essential reading and within the first few pages, as the main couple met, my stomach flipped. It’s never not flipped on reading the same scene since. Not many books achieve that. There’s the initial ‘whee’ they’ve met feeling that usually dies off once you know it’s going to happen but with this story, this couple, it constantly flips, despite knowing the scene off by heart by now.
I just… love this story.
The character building is beautiful, I got to see the pack as it was before, a teenage Lucas (main character of the first book of the series) and the dynamics of the pack. I loved the interaction between Tammy and Nate and the controversy driving their story, will they won’t they etc (it’s so much MORE than that though). The story has just got heart, it’s not a nice little tale to enchant more readers, it’s a very important piece of Pack history that is essential for the readers to really get to know the Pack and of course Tammy and Nate, who become the parents of two adorable cubs. A real heart clencher.
Yeah, this comment is now an essay. If only my English lecturers would accept this…
My two favorite short stories would have to be
Beat of Temptation of the wonderful psy-changeling series by Nalini Singh.
and On the Prowl by Patricia Briggs part of the alpha and omega series.
Loved both of those
Magic Mourns by Ilona Andrews. I am new to novella’s.
My fav novella..actually anthology is Corsets and Clockwork. Fav story in it is a tie. The Clockwork Corset by Adrienne Kress and Upon Amber Skies by Maria Snyder. Great stories!
Kelly Ethan
Thanks for giving us a chance to win this awesome collection of stories coming out. I am not a big novella reader myself. But, the one that really stands out that I did read was Here There Be Monsters since that it the very first time that I read a Steampunk romance. And boy, was I hooked! I absolutely loved the Iron Duke and I cannot wait to read Heart of Steel next!
I like so many, it’s hard to choose!
I often find myself re-reading “The Warlord Wants Forever” by Kresley Cole (Immortals After Dark), “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs (Mercy Thompson), your novella, “Here There Be Monsters”, and “Magic Mourns” by Ilona Andrews (Kate Daniels).
I’ve recently read and enjoyed “Unlocked” by Courtney Milan (Turner series), “Storming the Castle” by Eloisa James (Happily Ever Afters), and “What She Needs” by Anne Calhoun (a stand-alone).
Also, Lips Touch is an amazing collection of three YA fairy tale novellas by Laini Taylor.
I have a few favorites – I loved most of the stories in Must Love Hellhounds – Blind Spot and Magic Mourns were my favorites. I also love On the Prowl.
Thanks for the giveaway.
I’ve read and loved so many novellas that I don’t remember most of them. The last one I can remember reading (again!) and enjoying was Nalini Singh’s novella in “The Magical Christmas Cat”. I like the format because it’s an entire story, and it’s usually pulled off really well.
My favorite novella to date is a tie between “Beat of Temptation “by Nalini Singh part of her Psy/Changling series and “Dragon on Top” by G.A Aiken part of her Dragon Kin series. I loved them both.
If I had to narrow it down, which I always hate to do because I suck at picking favorites, they would have to be (in no order):
1) The Warlord Wants Forever by Kresley Cole (introduced IAD Series YAY!)
2) Here There Be Monsters by Meljean Brook (I love the Iron Seas!)
3) The Hotel Astarte by M.K Hobson (Stand alone, also wrote Native Star and the Hidden Goddess which were awesome)
4) Grace of Small Magics by Ilona Andrews (stand alone short, I love it)
I don’t really have favorites but I really enjoyed Fathers and Sons (Currans POV). I love Mehan the Kodiak Bear and their relationship is strong and volatile. But, you can see the same relationship between Curran and Mehan that is developing with Curran and Derek. Mehan showed Curran that a father is not necessarily the man who donated biologically to him. Curran has passed that along to Derek, his mini-me.
My favorite short story is Beat of Temptation. A little romance, a little sci-fi and always a good story. I love it when authors release short stories together. I can get a little example of others writing before I commit to a full book. The story of Tamsyn is sweet to read after reading the series. Sometimes you just need a sweet love story.
I loved Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs
One of my favorite novellas is ‘Magic Dreams’ by Ilona Andrews. I love the Jim and Dali dynamic, and I hope for more in the future.
My favorite novels are two different series : the darkest series by Gena Showalter, and the vampire like guys in sherrilyn kenyons series of books . I love to read those books. and, they all can stand alone as a book .
From Nalini Singh —> “The Cannibal Princess” and “Star Kissed” I don’t know if they are novellas or short stories, but I fell in love with both of them.
I really loved the kinsmen novellas by Ilona Andrews!
I most probably love Patricia Briggs’ Alpha & Omega which is the prequel to one of my favourite series. And I like the collection of novellas in Haunted by Your Touch by Jeaniene Frost, Sharie Kohler and Shayla Black. Sharie Kohler and Shayla Blacks contributions are a part of a series but I thought they worked well as stand alones.
Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. It was very goog.
My favorite short story is The Ransom of Red Chief since it reminds me of my younger brother.
I’m torn, my two fav’s would have to be your submission in Must Love Hellhouds (it’s what got me hooked on your writing), and Ilona’s Silver Shark.
I wish I could be original but it would probably be Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs, Magic Mourns or In Vino Veritas by Karen Chance
It is always hard to pick a favorite anything but i think my favorite short story or novella would have to be Beat of Temptation by Nalini Singh. I love her changeling and Psy series.
My favorite short story would have to be ‘Father Mine’ by J.R. Ward. It is part of her BDB series. It was sad at times but the end was really happy.
@Mikaela:
I currently am a big fan of Nalini Singh’s Psy series and my favorite so far is Hostage to Pleasure, but she highly recommends this series so I am hoping to try it next!
I currently am a big fan of Nalini Singh’s Psy series and my favorite so far is Hostage to Pleasure, but she highly recommends this series so I am hoping to try it next!
Same as I posted over on Ilona’s blog just changed it to ‘your’ instead of ‘Meljean’s’ lol
Your ‘Here there be Monsters’ of the Iron Seas series. It just blew me away, I literally adore the crap out of it! So fun
Ooh! so many good ones mentioned!
I’ll have to say: Stranger Blood. It’s the short that introduced me to PC Hodgell’s world and work.
For me, it’s Must Love Hellhounds by Nalini Singh. I’ve gotten totally hooked on the Guildhunter series (though I like her Psy-Changeling series too). I read Must Love Hellhounds to get the backstory after I read the first two GH books, but it would stand on it’s own as a novella.
thanks for the double give away! Reading both sites, I have some books I need to read. Lots of authors and stories, many mentioned here and on Ilona & Gordon’s website, but the one that I remember because it was the first novella that became a series I started reading is Eileen Wilks’ Only Human. I think I read that story 2 or 3 times the first day!
My favorite novellas are Alpha and Omega by Patricia Hobbs and Dragonswan by Sherrilyn Kenyon.
My favorite short story is Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. This is mostly because it is the start of a series I like. I tend to feel disappointed when I like a short story and then there is no more.
So hard to pick! I’d have to say “Beat of Temptation” by Nalini, Tammy’s and Nate’s story. It is just absolute perfection in 100 pages.
A close second is “Here there be Monsters” because it is what introduced me to Steampunk (which I am now obsessed with). Thanks for that, Meljean!!!!! <3
PICK ME RANDOM.ORG
Anywho to answer your question i would say Men of the Otherworld anthology by Kelley Armstrong, Clayton, Jeremy and the Pack is my pick
Thank you very much for the giveaway!
My favorite novella would have to be “Armor of Roses” by Marjorie Liu in the book “Inked”. I thought the setting (WWII) was very interesting & Maxine Kiss is a great heroine.
Here There Be Monsters because it was dark and slightly uncomfortable, which I loved. And I also enjoyed Ilona Andrews’ Magic Dreams
My favorite short story is Beat of Temptation (part of the Psy/Changeling series) by Nalini Singh. The series is one of my very favorites and this short story added to the overall storyline. It was so sweet too. Would love to read the Angels of Darkness anthology!
Ooh, that’s a tough one, as there are a lot of short stories I’ve fallen in love with over the years. The top one, though, would probably have to be Father Mine by J.R. Ward. It was a story in her Black Dagger Brotherhood series and as I am completely and irrevocably in love with Zsadist, it quickly became a favorite. Though Beat of Temptation and Angels’ Judgment are also huge favorites.
Would love to read Angels of Darkness so I could fall in love with some more short stories!!
Not to suck up but Here Be Monsters is a favourite.
Silent Blade By Ilona Andrews as well.
And another favourite which is just pure romance is Anne Stuart’s One More Valentine. I read that story a few years ago and it has continued to stick in my head.
My favorite short story is called THE SMOKER by David Schickler. I don’t remember how I found it but I love the unexpectedness of the female lead. It was in the New Yorker, and I’m not usually a New Yorker person at all. Pretty sure it’s a one-shot.
My favorite has be Dark Hunger by Christine Feehan. Her Dark Series got me hooked on Paranormal and romance books.
Favorite short story is “The Healer” in Robin McKinley’s A Knot in the grain and is tied to the Blue Sword Series through Luthe.
My favorite novella is probably yours from the Burning up anthology. It was such a great introduction to the Iron Seas world, and I just loved it.
I don’t usually read a lot of short stories, but the last one I read was short and sweet. Lisa Keypas “A Hathaway Wedding”. I read it because it was part of the series and I wanted to visit the characters again. Thank you for the giveaway.
Beat of Temptation by Nalini Singh. Part of her Psy/Changeling series. Read it multiple times from the library and then bought it, I found the characters so endearing
I haven’t read a lot of them. I just read Must Love Hellounds.
Larissa Ione has some great free novellas on her website. I love them ALL.
bluesun1218@dishmail.net
“Must Love Hellhounds” I bought it for Ilona Andrews story, and found “Blind Spot!” Patricia Briggs “Alpha and Omega” and “Gray” are two of my favorites… Win or lose I am looking forward to reading “Angels and Demons.”
My favourite Novella would be an ebook Father Mine by JR Ward, part of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I love this series, totallly swept away by her characters.
My favorite novella is Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews. I love her Kate Daniels series
Alpha and Omega. Short, sweet, left me wanting more.
Too many to narrow down!
Whispers of Sin in Burning Up, I bought the anthology because of Nalini’s short story. That lead me to Hear be Monsters which I loved, not being a steampunk fan before.
Angels and Omegas and The Prince of Ebon Rhia.
Moonglow by Catherine Asaro – I was so into it I put off eating till I finished it. Unusual for me.
Tough question! I would have to join the crowd on Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. I love that series so much! It is definitely the short story that I have read the most. I read it over and over.
I can’t wait to read this anthology!
I love Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews because I loved reading about Dali and Jim.
I also love Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs because I love everything to do with her books.
It’s hard, but I would have to say Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand by Carla Kelly. I am excited about this anthology. I just discovered Nalini Singh this summer & have devoured her books. She is AMAZING!!!
My favorite novella is “Father Mine: Zsadist and Bella’s Story”. It’s part of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward. It was so emotional and heartfelt, particularly having read their love story in a previous book in the series. This novella showed a glimpse of the happily ever after, and how it can still be fraught with troubles! It’s really a beautiful story.
I like Karen Chance short stories on Lia de Croissets and totally love the Alpha and Omega short story from On The Prowl. I also enjoy reading the Curran POV’s.
I’m gonna suck up here and call it “Thicker than Blood” from the “First Blood” anthology. I just loved Annie, she had such a poignant character in so few pages, and it’s a great example of a story that fits seamlessly into a greater world (series), and enhancing it, but able to stand on its own. And if you’re not into novellas and want to skip it, it doesn’t hurt your ability to follow the series arc with the novels, either.
I felt that JR Ward’s “Story of Son” was similar in that it does stand alone, but it’s so much more fun/rich if you ‘know’ the world that it’s set in.
I LOVED Ilona’s short story with Jim and Dali– I bought the anthology JUST for that one but ended up loving all the stories. It’s in her Kate Daniels’ world of course:)
First, I’d like to say that I’ve been super excited about this book since I heard about it. This is the first time ever that I have known all of the authors in an anthology, before it was published, and I’m pretty thrilled about this collection.
On to your question: I think one of my top favorite novellas would be Gold by Sharon Shinn, because it has the romance elements that I love in a very natural way- it doesn’t seem contrived, like two people fall in love and marry all within two days, and it also doesn’t skip huge chunks of time. Of course, the main characters are teenagers, so that helps keep the pace slower.
I do not read many novellas but I will have to join with numerous others here and say “Here There Be Monsters” along with the others in the “Burning Up” anthology. It was my first step into the steampunk world.
My favorite novella to date is Nalini Singh’s “Beat of Temptation” in An Enchanted Season. I loved Nate and Tammy’s story so much! The struggle in their relationship was completely unexpected, but Nalini made the situation logical and the story beautiful. Can’t wait to read about Noel and Nimra!
Krystyn
My Favorite novellas: “Winter Born” and “Dragonswan” by Sherrilyn Kenyon, and of course, “Here There Be Monsters.”
I love every novella Nalini Singh has written. I was also pretty crazy about “Here There Be Monsters”. Makes me impatient for “Heart of Steel”.
My favorite novellas are Five Golden Rings by Judith O’Brien (a X-mas novella) and Bewitched by Kelley Armstrong. I’m a sucker for sappy romance and heartbreak.
Thanks for a chance to enter the contest.
Ann N.
Touch Me from I Brake for Bad Boys – it was my introduction to the crack that is Shannon McKenna’s books!
It’s got to be Nalini Singh’s ‘Stroke of Enticement’ for me. A sweet, adorable addition to the Psy/Changeling books.
My favourite novella is still Alpha & Omega by Patricia Briggs.
Iron Duke is my current fave, many times read story and my first steampunk, so thanks very much for introducing me to the genre!
My first choice would be “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. It was the prequel to a new series of the same name and a spin off of the Mercy Thompson series. I did a major happy dance when I got the signed limited edition of this story from Subterranean Press.
Also, I have to say that your novella “Here There Be Monsters” opened me to a genre that wasn’t on my radar. I liked it so much I had to research and try to find other steampunk novels to satisfy the new interest you gave me. Thank you.
As others have mentioned, I adored Alpha & Omega and the series that it kicked off is one of my favorites. I reread this one all the time. Another that I read recently and loved was Unlocked by Courtney Milan – an almost perfect Regency novella. I believe this is part of a larger series, but it also works perfectly as a standalone. Finally, I have to mention Father Mine featuring Zzadist and Bella from the BDB. I reread that one all the time also.
Wow – it’s really hard to pick a favorite novella, but if I had to, it would be Winterfair Gifts, by Lois McMaster Bujold. You can get it in ebook form from Amazon, and it’s also in the anthology “Irresistible Forces”.
Can’t really decide if it’s “Days of Swine and roses” or “Silver Shark” by Ilona Andrews
What is your favorite novella or short story? Is it part of a series that you love, or does it stand alone?
On Ilona’s site I wrote Nalini Singh’s Angel’s Pawn as my fave, but I have to put in another favorite that I totally love over here:
Fairy Gifts by Patricia Briggs was just fantastic! It had some of the elements I love from the Mercy Thompson world, but it was totally a stand-alone and it was just a great story start to finish!
My favorite at the moment has to be “Beat of Temptation” by Nalini Singh. Part of her Psy/Changeling series that is to die for.
Patricia Briggs novella Alpha and Omega. the start of a great series of a women regaining her sense of self worth.
my favorite novella right now is Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs and it’s part of her spin off of the Mercy Thompson series
Right now one of my favorite short stories is Magic Dreams by Illona Andrews. It’s a novella featuring Jim and Dali! Jim has always been an intriguing character and ever since Dali was introduced in Magic Strikes (I think), I’ve always thought she was a fun character! I can’t wait to hopefully read more about these two in the future!
It’s nearly impossible to choose just one favorite:
I’d have to say it’s the novella called ‘The Beholder’ by Leanore Elliott.
I forgot to mention that ‘The Beholder’ is a stand-alone book.
Lea Ellen {night owl in IL}
borg_66@hotmail.com
I have lots of favourites but the one I read most often til today is stroke of enticement with Zach and Annie, written by Nalini Singh and part of the psy/changeling series in an enchanted season. just loooooove the magik!
twi twi manu
I love “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia, the prequel to her Alpha and Omega series and “Stroke of Enchantment” by Nalini Singh from her Psy-Changeling series.
My fav short story is Whisper of Sin by Nalini Singh – its part of her Psy-Changeling series!!
My favorite of th.e moment its “Gray” by Patricia Briggs–I love everything she writes
my favorit one is angle pawn by nalini singh although it is series yet it can stands alone
My favorite is Story of Son by JR Ward. It’s a great story and a little different than her BDB series.
That’s a hard one. In general I love novellas that takes place in the world of a series. Like those of Patricia Briggs, Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh and of course, you. Many times it offers a glimpse of new characters of new viewpoint and it’s fun. My favorite? Maybe “Seeing Eye” of Patricia Briggs (it’s stand alone but takes place in Mercy’s world)
It would have to be Silver Shark, I loved that story so very much and I want more!
Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King is my all-time favorite. I also like Kelley Armstrong’s Otherworld stories.
Lately I’m really enjoying the sci-fi shorts. Silver Shark was awesome and I really enjoyed Collision Course by Zoe Archer. I reread Paradise often because I <3 Selah and Nalini Singh's Stroke of Enticement which is another favorite.
I really enjoyed The Lost One by Ronda Thompson. It’s part of the Wild Wulfs of London trilogy (regency werewolves!) I find I like novellas that tie into certain series (or spark them, as it happened with Patricia Briggs’ Alpha and Omega)
I can’t pick just one, that’s too hard so my top 3 favs are all by Nalini Singh:
Angel’s Judgement ( part of her Guild Hunter series)
Beast of Temptation
Stroke of Enticement (both are part of her Psy/Changeling series)
I love her books and I can’t wait for more in either world!
Ohh I love this one. So, let’s me see. Your “Here there be monsters”. “Angel’s Pawn” and “Angel’s Judgement” by Nalini Singh
My favourite novella is the prequel of the Covenant series by Jennifer L. Armentrout called Daimon. It’s so full of action and suspense that I begged my mom to help me pre-order the first book in the series, Half-blood, right after that!
CYP
I’m stuck between Angels’ Pawn and Beat of temptation by Nalini Singh, I love the characters in these two stories and I think they contribute really nicely to the two different worlds
Well I actually love all of Nalini´s stories and novellas but my favourite up til now would definitely be Beat of Temtation which is a novella featuring Nathan and Tamsyn from the Psy/Changeling books….what fascinates me about this story is that you get to know how they came togehter in the first place since they´re already happily mated when you first get to know them in Slave to Sensation, Luca´s and Sasha´s book……in generall everyone should be able to understand and follow the plot even without knowing the series but I guess it´s still more fun if you do know the backround and the world Nalini has created for the series…..
Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. Its a Begining of a series
I love ‘One For The Money’ by Jeaniene Frost. It’s a little side story about her Night Huntress series, and it was awesome, I loved it! It had Cat & Bones in it, what’s not to love?? ^^
There are many goods ones out there but my current favorite is Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. It is a spinoff of her Mercy Thompson series and also kicks off the Alpha and Omega series.
I loved Angel’s Pawn. And Silver Shark. And A Mere Formality. And Here There Be Monsters. And Magic Dreams.
Oh, well. I just can’t decide. But apart from A Mere Formality, they’re all part of a series…
At the moment my favourites are ‘Dusi’ by Devon Monk from her collection of short stories ‘A Cup of Normal’, Ilona Andrews ‘Magic Dreams’ and ‘Blue Boots’ by Robin Hobb.
“Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs is my favorite. I also automatically buy any anthology that has either Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews and you in it. Jackpot!
My favorite short story is Ilona andrews’ latest release-Silver Shark! I’ve read several times. Although there isn’t many romance, the story is great:)
It changes on any given day, I read a lot and I am sure there is something I am missing, but recent favorites ‘Alpha and Omega’ by Patricia Briggs
I usually love longer stories than novellas, but if I have to choose I’d say
- “Beat of Temptation” in An Enchanted Season, the Tammy&Nate story in the Psy/Changeling series by Nalini Singh
and
- Kaeleer’s heart, in the Black Jewels anthology Dreams Made Flash by Anne Bishop
They both can be read as stand alone, but if you know the background you appreciate them more.
I like them ’cause you can feel and sense what the characters are feeling and living, and I was fulfilled even with the “few” pages the story is told.
I also really really liked Magic Dreams (Ilona Andrews, in Hexed Anthology), with my Dali&Jim-darling!
And, I know it doesn’t count as a novella, but I can not mention the “Sex by Barrons’ POV”! XD
I would say Kresley Cole’s short story in Deep Kiss of Winter about Murdoch and Daniela the Uce Maiden. Great story!!!
My favorite novella is “Devil to Pay” by Jeaniene Frost and is set in her Night Huntress world. I loved Elise and wanted to know more about her and Blake. Kresley Cole’s “The Warlord Wants Forever” is a close second. That novella is made of awesome and started one of my favorite PNR series.
My favorite novella is Nalini Singh’s “Stroke of Enticement” in the Magical Christmas Cat. It is part of her Psy/Changeling series.
My favorite is Nalini Singh’s Angel’s Pawn. I love that series.
Shadow Touch by Erin Kellison. It is set in her Shadow series world, but I hadn’t read those books at the time I read the novella.
I loooove Kij Johnson’s short story “At the Mouth of the River of Bees”. So heartbreaking but perfect (although it will make any dog-owner sob, in all the right ways).
I love the novella Burning up. Nalini Singh’s psy changeling series is my favorite and I really enjoyed Here There Be Monsters. It made me read The Iron Duke, which was great.
I think my favorite short story is constantly changing. Recently it is The Royal Scam by Gini Koch
Anything from my favorite authors: Patricia Briggs, Ilona Andrews, Nalini Singh, Meljean Brook. While I love reading a short story that is part of a series, I liked how Patricia Brigg’s On the Prowl was a great introduction into Charles’ and Anna’s series.
My current favourite is Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews, in the Hexed anthology, because I love their Kate Daniels series, especially Jim!
Thanks for running this giveaway.
I’d have to go with Nalini Singh’s novellas called Angel’s Pawn and Angel’s Judgement. But Magic Mourns is also a good one! I have yet to read Magic Dreams so I’m looking forward to that. Both are parts of a series. I think novellas tend to give us a glimpse into another character’s world we might not necessairly view on the main series.
Oh so many! And might I point out that it is incredibly cruel to make us choose one. Of couse I could just name a whole bunch anyway. But then I’d be here forever. Forever.
Everybody has mentioned a lot of the one that I like. So I’m going to choose Taking Hold by Anya Bast. Mostly I’m choosing it because I’m hoping if I mention it enough she’ll write more to the story!
I never read steampunk before “Here there be monsters”. I loved it.
I don’t usually read a lot of novella’s, but I really liked Nalini Singh’s Angel’s Pawn and Whisper of Sin.
I loved Dana Stabenow’s short story in Unusual Suspects, and I like any short stories by Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews. Thanks for the giveaway!!!
I love “Here There Be Monsters” and “Magic Dreams” by Ilona.
“The Countess’s Pleasure” by Emma Holly in the Hot Spell anthology turned me onto a whole other side of paranormal. I enjoy anthologies because I discover new authors. “Falling for Anthony” is what brought you to me Meljean!
My favorite novellas are Beat of Temptation in An Enchanted Season by Nalini Singh and The Prince of Ebon Rih in Dreams Made Flesh by Anne Bishop. Both are a parts of series that I adore. I love Tami and Nate in the Psy/changeling series because they are still happy after so many years. And Lucivar Yaslana is my favorite character from the Dark Jewels!
In those short stories I like, I would choose the Curran Volumes form Ilona Andrews. It’s good to see the world in another point of view
This year’s One City One Story is The Whore’s Child by Richard Russo. As far as I know, it’s a standalone short story.
I loved your story “Here There Be Monsters”. Ivy and Mad Machen are my favorite characters in your universe; I hope they make a reappearance in your future stories.
If it sounds too brown-nosy to choose one of yours than I’ll go with “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. It’s set in the Mercy Thompson world but gives a slight different spin on regular were-wolf hierarchy.
I also like Christine Feehan’s short stories. For me, a good novella or short story will introduce the reader to a new world, give current readers to that world a different perspective, or further the main story in some way. Her short stories usually do that
just choose one? :O
ok ummm probably nalini singh’s AN ENCHANTED SEASON!!!
just love tammy and nathans story :’)
its part of the psy-changleing series which i adore!
it can stand alone but knowing the series helps so you understand mating and the general pack structure and just knowing tammy and nathan in the future but you will be able to understand it reading it alone
Ilona Andrew’s Curran’s POV and Here There Be Monsters. Both can be stand alones.
I loved Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel by Kim Harrison. It gave so much insight and seeing Rachel now.. I’ve never imagined her ever being something else than self-confident.
Also Ilona Andrews Curran novellas and Beginnings by Kelley Armstrong, but then again, I love almost everything she writes. (The one scene in Framed with Nick contemplating sex in animal form was a little awkward, though.. *cough*) – But those I like because they’re written in another POV while the full novels are mostly told in one POV, eg. Kate’s or Elena’s.
The novella by Nalini Singh about Zac and A..nny? I’m not sure about their names, but this one and the one with Tally and Nate.. I liked both of them.
And your “Falling for Anthony” was awesome. I usually don’t see that much depth and worldbuilding in novellas and was impressed by it. Of course I now have new expectations when I start anthologies.. *sigh*
Hi Meljean,
My favourite novella is Beat of Temptation (from An Enchanted Season) which features Nate and Tamsyn.
Count me in for the draw!
I like the novella “Two Blondes” by Charlaine Harris. It is a Sookie Stackhouse story that is adventurous and hilarious. It has my vote as one of the best. -Erika
I’ve enjoyed Ilona Andrews short stories. It seems like you get the best taste of the world that they have developed when they give you something small to read. It’s a good appetizer until the next book comes out.
My favorite novella would have to be “The Warrior” by Jim Butcher, originally appearing in the Mean Streets anthology and I think republished in Side Jobs.
I love Jim Butcher’s writing, especially his Harry Dresden series, but the novels can be dark and brutal and heart-wrenching. In this story, however, we get to see a bit of the big picture and it makes me cry with joy every time I read it.
Honorable mention should go to someone’s “Blind Spot”, which I just re-read the other day – that one gives me a happy too.
One of the first short stories that I have read is ‘The hand’ by Maupassant (I really have no idea if this is the correct English title because I read it in Italian) and it still creeps me out to thing about it.
I really liked Patricia Briggs Alpha and Omega!!! I’ve read so many, but this one stands out to me
Tough question! I’m torn between ‘Silent Blade’ by I. Andrews and ‘Stroke of Enchantment’ by N. Singh.
One of my favorites is “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. Too many to choose from!
Hmm, I honestly can’t pick a favorite–I like short stories that are both new worlds and those that expand old favorites. The main thing for me is that it be well-written. I do like anthologies because it exposes me to new authors that I may not have read before–which is how I have been hooked into following so many series. *L*
Forgive me, but my favoutite short isn’t one of yours,,,,,, it’s Ilona Andrews, “A Questionable Client.”
O_o thats a tall order you know right?
uhhhh, i think now all my faves are part of a series, I cant think of any off the top of my head that were stand-alones! XD
Cast in Moonlight by Michelle Sagara, Alpha and Omega, Angel’s Pawn and stroke of enticement!
Also most shorts from Kelley Armstrong!
*crosses fingers*
Oh, Gosh..I have loads! Many of them has already been mentioned already like Alpha and Omega and Angels Pawn so I’ll add a short story by Swedish author John Ajvide Lindqvist (he also wrote the novel Let the Right One In), the story is called Gräns (Border) and is from his collection Pappersväggar ( Paper walls). I don’t think it’s been translated to english but if it has..read it!
OK, another one choosing Alpha and Omega novella by Patricia Briggs. You know really there are two many to choose just one.
I usually like short stories/ novellas that are part of a larger story which I am following. I always have such a difficult time determining book favorites….Right now, though, my fav is “Silver Shark” by Ilona Andrews. That is so much fun to read!
Thanks for the opportunity to win this book!
I have to say that most novellas I have read happen to be written by Nalini Singh but I also like the novella that started the Patricia Briggs series Alpha & Omega. And to top it off I love the Guild Hunter series.
I love the novellas in Burning Up. I am a fan of Nalini Singh’s books, and the other short stories got me interested in the other authors in that book. Thanks for a chance to win a copy of your new release!
Four from my keeper shelf are “Here There be Monsters,” “Magic Mourns,” “Alpha and Omega,” and “The Warlord Prince of Ebon Rih.” All are are part of series, and except for the Anne Bishop story, each one was my first exposure to the series of which it is a part.
My favorite short story in by Ilona Andrews it is called “Of Swine and Roses” a close 2nd is “Alpha and Omega” by Patricia Briggs. I can’t wait for this collection. It looks great.
I loved the Burning Up anthology! And Alpha and Omega by Patty Briggs.
I’m so looking forward to reading all the stories in ‘Angels of Darkness’ — please enter me in the draw!
One of my faves is the a short story by Patricia Briggs — ‘Alpha and Omega’ from the collection ‘On the Prowl’ — that launched an entire series. That was the first time I’d read anything of hers and I was hooked from the start.
My favorite novella is undoubtedly Silent Blade by Ilona Andrews. I’ve never read novellas that are so satisfying in their story arc and conclusion as these. Usually novellas don’t develop enough, or leave things hanging. It’s part of the Kinsmen series and I hope Ilona keeps writing more in this universe!
I’m going to go with Alpha and Omega in the anthology ‘On the Prowl’. I still have to read both your and Nalini’s novella’s, but picked up the ‘Burning Up’ anthology. I tend to go straight for the full stories and read the prequels and anthologies later.
I loved alpha and omega by Patricia Briggs in on the prowl. I havent yet read Silent Blade but I can’t wait
Loved Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. I love the short stories published in one novel. I usually read it for one of my fav authors and have found new favorites thru their short stories.
My favorite is beat of temptation in the psy changling series. Awesome!!
Birthnight by Michelle Sagara. It was originally published in the anthology Christmas Bestiary.
I usually don’t read anthologies unless an author I really like has contributed, but I realize it’s also a great way to find new authors to read. One of my favorite short stories is Angels’ Judgement by Nalini Singh from Must Love Hellhounds, and anything by Patricia Briggs.
My favorite short stories are Angel’s Judgement and Angels’ Blood. I love the Guild Hunter series. I also like anthologies as I get a chance to discover new authors.
Oops – I meant Angels’ Pawn. I am rereading Angels’ Blood now.
I haven’t read many. but off the top of my head – A Questionable Client, Whisper of Sin, and Here There Be Monsters
I loved The warlord wants forever by Kresley Cole the start of her immortal series. Sent me on a hunt for the rest of them lol.
scrtsbpal at yahoo dot com
As I was saying somewhere else, I love J D Robb’s novellas and I just finished her latest one: The Unquiet, it came out this Tuesday!
I don’t usually read novellas unless they are part of a series I love. Then I will read the whole anthology as a chance to find a new author.
I come form Hong Kong. Nice to meet you!
My favorite short story…how can I tell…it only has Chinese name. All I can say that this story is about finding a book has disappeared a hundred years.
I know you’re all going to think I’m sucking up, but truly, one of my favorite novellas of all time is the prequel to the Iron Seas series. I’m actually not sure what it’s called since I read it in an anthology… wow, that makes me feel horrible! But seriously, if you haven’t read it, and the Iron Duke, you really should. I’m a hardcore Steampunk fan now, and Meljean Brook’s stuff got me started!
My favourite novellas are Here be Monsters by you, Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews as well as her Kinsmen novellas and Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. I can’t narrow it down to one.
I have way too many favorites to pick just one; I love a good novella. In romance, I can narrow down to three: “Here There Be Monsters,” “The Wicked West” by Victoria Dahl, and “Unlocked” by Courtney Milan.
Wow, I am super impressed that e story that immediately popped into my head has been mentioned already so many times. Patricia Briggs short introducing Alpha and Omega. First thing I ever read from her anit inspired me to inhale the rest of her collection. Here there be Monsters did the same thing for me, by the way. Thanks for writing!
My favourite novella is Courtney Milan’s ‘Unlocked’, which is part of her Turners series.
Ohhh…..so many novellas to choose from. My fave would be Honor Bound by Joey W Hill. It is the 3rd installment of the Knights of the Boardroom series and IMO it is the best.
Next would be Father Mine from JR Ward and the BDB series. I totally love Zsadist
I can’t go past Alpha + Omega – Patricia Briggs
I wouldn’t say this is my favorite, but it’s the most memorable: a stand-alone by Linda Howard (I know, yikes) from a looooong time ago. I’ve forgotten the title, but it is about soul mates who were separated by distrust and death in their first lives but keep getting reincarnated for yet another chance to right the wrong in their relationship(s), only to fail again and again. The story follows the last time they will get this chance, set in the American South in the late 1990s (I think). I think I’m thinking about it now because I just finished Nalini Singh’s “Archangel’s Blade,” and guess what? Soul mates and reincarnation. It had a similar feel to that novella (but better written, certainly).
I have so many favorite novellas. Here there be Monsters of course was the first short I read of yours that pulled me into the Iron Seas world. Also my first taste of the Steampunk genre. I loved your steampunk boots btw.
Jordan Castillo Price writes a series of novellas called “Channeling Morpheus” and “Sweet Oblivion” about a gay vampire named Wild Bill. I LOVE Wild Bill. She also does this fantastic serial short where she posts a few chapters every month on her website and her readers can vote on the direction they want the story to go. It is a LOT of fun. The current one is called Magic Mansion and is based on a reality TV show with magicians. This is her second serial short, the first being Zero Hour which you can read for free in its entirety on her website.
Most recently I’m reading an AMAZING compilation of shorts from the M/M Romance Group on GoodReads that is based on a very unique concept. Readers submit a photo and a basic story request and a group of extremely talented authors bring the photo to life with a short story. This project is compiled and distributed as a free download and a gift to the readers.
Reading through the comments reminds me of so many of my favorites! I loved Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel by Kim Harrison because it introduced us to Pierce and I’ve enjoyed that plot line so much. When I saw the release info for Angels of Darkness I was already on my way to the store because it had so many authors I can’t live without…
I really love Originally Human by Eileen Wilks. I started buying her Lupi books because I liked it that much.
There seems to be a ton of novellas lately and it’s hard to keep track but do love me some JD Robb, you and Ilona.
Too many favorite novellas, but probably everything from Must Love Hell hounds. That’s what got me into both the guardians and kate daniel’s series.
I adore your Guardian series and your story about Mr. Blake and his Winters is one of the best. Very sexy!
I love the Alpha and Omega novella from Patricia Briggs.
This is where I’m totally supposed to say “Here There Be Monsters” ’cause it’s yours and definitely one of my faves. But if I’m honest… my all-time favorite is actually “Milk and Cookies” by Rob Thurman from the Wolfsbane and Mistletoe anthology. I have a secret softspot for holiday paranormal mixes and that one is one I’ve read each Christmas Eve since the hardcover came out. It doesn’t tie into any of her series but shows a different capability of hers as a writer while managing to blend Christmas and werewolves into a very tongue-in-cheek story that hits all the right spots.
I believe you have an iron seas novella in burning up?
legitimately I think that’s my favorite (partly because it got me reading the rest of your books)
“Day Off” by Jim Butcher!
My favourite novella is Magic Mourns in the Must Love Hellhounds anthology (http://www.cherrymischievous.com/2011/09/review-magic-mourns.html)… maybe becuse I am a longtime Kate Daniels fan
Cherry Mischievous
cherrymischif-darkward [at] yahoo [dot] com
One of my favourite short stories is the Charlaine Harris addition to the Night’s Edge anthology called “Dancers in the Dark”. It’s set in the same universe as her Sookie Stackhouse books but it sooo stands on its own merits.
ellenotoole at hotmail dot com
“Alpha and Omega”, the Alpha and Omega ‘origins’ short story, by Patricia Briggs; “One For the Money”, a Night Huntress short story, by Jeaniene Frost; “Magic Mourns”, a Kate Daniels short story, by Ilona Andrews (^_~); and “Father Mine”, a Black Dagger Brotherhood short story, by J.R. Ward; and “Here There Be Monsters” by Meljean Brook are among my favourites and are all series installments. Thanks for hosting the contest, and good luck to everyone!
I would say “apha and omega” by Patricia Briggs and “Magic dreams” by ilona andrews
a big thanks for this international giveaway
This isn’t fair because I love so many novellas. It’s a hard question but you require an answer so I have to say Angels’ Judgment by Nalini Singh in Must Love Hellbounds.
asiya_1989 [at] hotmail [dot] com
So hard to pick! But I have to say it is a tie between Nalini Singh’s ‘Stroke of Enticement’ which introduced me to the Psy/changeling series and your novella ‘Here there be monsters’ which enticed me to get the ‘Iron Duke’- a book I totally love too!
Thanks for the giveaway !!
kat
Oh I love novellas as part of a series. I loved the novella for Hold me Closer Necromancer, Necromancer.
terilhack at gmail dot com
For me it’s a tie between:
your story, Here There Be Monsters (in Burning up) because I was blown away by your world and by Eben and Ivy. So good!
and
Shelly Laurenston’s Miss Congeniality (in When He Was Bad), which is part of her series but totally stands alone. And is hilarious.
Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. It can stand alone, but it is part of of one of my most favorite series
Tough call! Today I think it’s Meljean Brook’s “Here There Be Monsters” =).
Three I really loved come quickly to mind – Thicker than Blood in the First Blood anthology and Here There be Monsters, and Nalini’s Angel’s Pawn.
Specifically, fav short stories are Karen Chance’s companion pieces for her Cassie & Dorina Basarab series’. But I cant wait to get my hands on anything of Ilona Andrews: short stories, novellas- companion or otherwise.
My favorite book would have to be…Coming Home by Lili Saintcrow. Part of her Dante Valentine Series
I would say Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs. If I absolutely had to choose.
Magic Dreams by the fabulous Ilona Andrews all the way!
I loved Magic Graves! Both stories are in series that I read and I love the both!!
Two short stories popped into my mind immediately…
Dolls by Nichelle Gregory (very dirty story, I hope it becomes part of a series!)
And there is a short story about a serial killer that made me laugh so hard I snorted but I cannot remember the name right now! Ugh! I am just too tired to pull it out of my brain!
My favorite novellas are those by J.D. Robb, Ilona Andrews, and Lori Foster. I can’t recall any short stories. As much as I read, I am surprised that I remember any books at all….lol
Thanks for the contest.
I love Jim and Dali’s story ( Magic Dreams), in the anthology HeXED by Ilona Andrews. It is part of kate daniel’s series. Please include me in the giveaway. Thanks
Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs is one of my all time favorite short story ^_^
My fav series atm are guild hunter by Nalini Singh and fallen series by Lauren Kate. They are both really great writers and I love to read new books by authers that have great storys that my friends tell me about
Prefer it if part of series (Nalini Singh’s Whisper of Sin, Patricia Briggs Alpha & Omega)
My favourite novella HAS to be the Alpha and Omega 0.5, aptly chosen name ‘Alpha and Omega ‘ in On The Prowl. For it being the first time you meet the main characters, it does a really good job of getting the reader to empathise and fall in love. (:
Thanks for the snippets and the giveaway!!! (:
I adore Ilona Andrews’ _Silver Shark_ – it’s pretty tightly woven for a novella, as others have noted above me. I wanted to say that my favorite short story was Patty Briggs’ “Alpha and Omega,” but Anna’s characterization doesn’t completely hold up on re-read after the third time or so; I started to wonder why Anna, being as spirited as she is, didn’t fight harder at the very beginning. These days, my favorite re-read is of Robin McKinley’s “First Flight,” in her anthology “Fire.”
My favorite? ACK I can’t choose. Everything’s really a part of a series. I love the short stories by Lynn Kurland, Jim Butcher, Sharon Shinn, and Mercedes Lackey (Valdemar series).
I guess the short story I think about the most (especially in December) is “The Star” by Arthur C. Clarke. I read it 10+ years ago & still remember it.
My all time favorite short stories: “All Summer in a Day” by Ray Bradbury and “Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe. This doesn’t really count, but when I was a kid, I loved the Pee-Wee story from Caddy Woodlawn. My brother and I used to tell it to eachother; to this day I remember that story better than the rest of the book.
I love both Alpha and Omega and Here There Be Monsters. I also love everything in Under Her Skin. I also love Angels Pawn and Angels Judgement. Also Whisper of Sin. These are the stories I always return to when I don’t have any new books to read.
Some of my favourite novellas/short stories are Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews, Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs, and Beginnings by Kelley Armstrong. They are all part of 3 awesome series that I highly recommend!
whitewolfreads AT gmail DOT com
I would say Magic Dreams by Ilona Andrews. It’s one of my favorites
Possession In Death is also a gun read.
I’d have to say that my one of my fav novellas would be Alpha and Omega, from On the Prowl by Patricia Briggs.
Thanks for the giveaway!!!
efender1(at)gmail(dot)com
Hm, my favorites are Here There Be Monsters (I liked the novella better than the first book, Sorry!) and On the Prowl (Alpha and Omega) by Patricia Briggs. As a matter of fact, I re-read the former a while ago and latter now.
So many favorites. Here there be Monsters, of course, and all the Ilona shorts. I’m rather fond of all the Dresdan File shorter works and I’m a HUGE fan of Kelley Armstrong’s shorter stuff, to which she can attest to, as I’ve chased her down 3 times do get all her books and anthologies signed. Poor dear, every signing I show up with 12-15 books.
Murder mysteries by Neil Gaiman has always been a fave. The Guardians novella – Blind Spot, also The Kitten Tiger and the Monk (The disullusionists)
This is a really tough question for me. I love novellas and short stories and read a lot of them. Since I’m on vacation I can’t easily go and look through them and decide which one is my favorite. So I’ gues sI’ll have to stick with the last one I reread which is Alpha and Omega. I do love that series and frequently reread it.
But, i do love stand alone novellas and short stories as well. Especially ones with a clever twist or characterization. Can’t remember them off top of my head though.
I’d say Patricia Briggs’ “Alpha and Omega” novella tied with Ilona Andrews’ “Silent Blade” short story… both were amazing and have me constantly re-reading them.
Choosing just one short if very difficult.. but I loved Silent Blade by Ilona Andrews and have much enjoyed shorts by my favorite authors: Anne Bishop, Nalini Singh, and you (Here there be Monsters got me hooked on the Iron Duke).
I really do not have one; this is similar to picking a favorite song with me and that means relying on the many ones I love and what type mood/humor I am in. I do love “Magic Mourns” from Ilona Andrews (others of hers too), a goodly number of Jim Butcher’s selections, and various authors’ works.
Am I indecisive or not!?! Thanks for the giveaway!
It’s hard to pick just one, but I love Patricia Briggs’ novella in “On the Prowl” and I’m looking forward to the new book in the series being released next year (finally!).
It’s tough to pick….but if I must, I would say “A Dream Of Armageddon” by HG Wells. A great classic.
Patrice Briggs’ Alpha and Omega is one of my favorites. So are Kresley Cole’s The Warlord Wants Forever and Nalini Singh’s Beast of Temptation. and Ilona’s Kinsmen novellas… It don’t think I could choose just one!
I love j.d. robb’s “interlude in death” from the eve dallas series. Eve and roarke are great in that novella.
I don’t have a favorite since I haven’t had much chance to read novellas or short stories, but I hope that changes with this book
One of my favorite short stories is “Tattercoats” by Midori Snyder which is a retelling of the fairy tale of the same name. It stands alone and is found in the anthology “Black Thorn, White Rose.”
Bloody Valentine Meliss de la cruz, part of the blueblood series. I love Sky and Jack
I pretty much only read novellas are if they are part of a series that I really love. So, that means my favorite is either The Warlord Wants Forever by Kresley Cole or Alpha and Omega by Patrica Briggs.
Really I have a lot of favorites and found a lot of new authors though them. But one recent favorite that I think was a stand alone is Bound by Blood by Cynthia Eden. Although I hope it ends up part of a series.
My favourite novella is Alpha & Omega by Patricia Briggs. It starts a whole new series.
This is hard. There are a lot of good stories out there now. It is hard to write a good short story or novella, so we have a lot of talented folks writing now.
“Alpha and Omega,” by Patricia Briggs is one of my favorites. She then developed it into a novel, and a couple of books in the series have followed. I really liked her “Seeing Eye,” which also is about characters in the series Alpha and Omega started.
Your “Blind Spot” was really good. Any chance of more about Maggie and Geoffrey (or have I missed something)? “Here be Dragons” was a lot of fun. It was a great story and great intro to steampunk. As a result, I greatly anticipated “The Iron Duke.”
“Magic Mourns,” “Magic Dreams,” and “A Questionable Client” were all good, and each filled out more about the characters and the world of Ilona and Gordon’s “Magic…” series.
“Cast in Moonlight, the “prequel” for Michelle Sagara’s “Cast in…” (Chronicles of Elantra).
Hunter Kiss by Marjorie Liu. It got me hooked on the Maxine Kiss series.
Nalini Singh’s “Whisper of Sin” and “Stroke of Enticement,” and “Angels’ Judgment.” I am pretty sure there are a couple of others of hers that I liked a lot, but I can’t think of them now.
there’s a short story I think called the gift by jude deveraux in the taggert/montgomery series i adore.
What? I have to choose? Doesn’t work that way, I have one (or many) for each author
my favorite of your books is in Burning Up, here There Be Monsters. I adore Ivy an Mad Machen’s story
Ann McCaffrey’s “Lady in the Tower” and “A Meeting of Minds” which fit into the series about the Rowan and her family (Damia, etc). “Daughter,” a free standing story in a future time about a student in college.
“Buying Trouble” – Karen Chance – connects to the novel “Midnight’s Daughter” which came out later.
Cindy Holbrook’s “The Present, ” was lots of fun, and my Mom and I both have read it many times for a “picker-upper.”
@Miriam: lol, you got in here at the very last second!
The contest is now closed.