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Book CoverSandy M’s review of Lover Enshrined (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book 6) by J.R. Ward
Contemporary Paranormal Romance released by Signet 3 Jun 08

Yeah, I’m so behind in reading all the blockbusters of this past summer.  But you know what?  I kinda like that I am behind because I got to hear all the hullabaloo about what everyone thought about this book, especially the whiners out there, before I finally jumped into it.  I can tell you right now, all those whiners are so off base about this one, it’s not even funny.

I don’t know how many posts I saw all over the net that said “I’ll never read another book in this series again” after they’d finished Lover EnshrinedPlease.  If you’re a serious reader, if you’re a true fan of this series, this book is a damn good book and it stays right on course with what we’ve come to expect from J.R. Ward.  You don’t want to read another book in this series, you go right ahead, whiner.  It’s your loss.

Even the parts I thought I might not like after reading those net posts I loved.  Back then I thought I’d be disappointed that the storyline follows the three young males, John, Qhuinn, and Blaylock, more than ever before — only because I love those Brothers so.  I wanted more about them and only them, but I really enjoyed every bit in this book about those three young friends.  What’s between those three is what friendship is about.  I should never have doubted Ward for one iota of a second.   That won’t happen again, I can tell you that.

Now the lack of romance allegations.  I’ll agree with those up to a point.  The fact is Phury could not have sustained any type of love at this point in his life.  He had to straighten himself out first.  He had to do it.  Both Z and Wrath tried their way to get him back on the straight and narrow, but nothing worked; hence Wrath’s drastic measures.  And Cormia needed time on this side of her sanctuary to realize her feelings for Phury.  If they’d done anything before either of these circumstances came to pass, it just wouldn’t have worked.

I confess, I was a little upset at Wrath’s solution to his Phury problem, but Ward pulled it all together for me at the end so that my ire was calmed a tad.  I’m still not 100% that I like the new situation, but I think the next book will help me out on that better.  But it all worked because Phury did things his way and he did them the best he could considering all he’d been through over his lifetime.  In a way he’s nearly as innocent (in more ways than one!) as Cormia when it comes to life, despite all he’s lived while with the Brotherhood.  They both had a specific journey to follow and they both had to come out on the other side on their own terms to get them where they needed to be in the end — together.  Worked for me just fine.  Feel me?

I’m sure I’m part of the majority when I say I don’t care for the Lessers.  They’re just plain evil and slimy.  But I have to say that the new twist we’re given with the Omega was interesting and it gives a whole new light on upcoming books with a new and different enemy in town.  They did cause a lot more destruction in this book, but it was fascinating to watch it all unfold.

All in all, there’s not much wrong with this book.  We all have our own pet peeves about certain aspects of it, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that it’s in keeping with the spirit of the series and the characters.  It’s pure escapism and that’s why I read.  So who gives a rat’s ass if something isn’t done in a particular “true” or “real” way as we know it in life?  Hell, it’s not real life, people!  Lighten up, sit back, and enjoy it for what it is and let go of all those hangups on what you think should be happening in the series.  Ward gives us 150% every time, and I know each one of those Brothers would agree with that.

SandyMGrade: A+

Read LauraD’s, Gwen’s, and Limecello’s reviews.  Read all sorts of news, reviews, and information by following the Black Dagger Brotherhood series tag or the Lover Enshrined tag.

Summary:

Fiercely loyal to the Black Dagger Brotherhood, Phury has sacrificed himself for the good of the race, becoming the male responsible for keeping the Brotherhood’s bloodlines alive. As Primale of the Chosen, he is to father the sons and daughters who will ensure that the traditions of the race survive and that there are warriors to fight those who want all vampires extinguished.

As his first mate, the Chosen Cormia wants to win not only his body but his heart for herself- she sees the emotionally scarred male behind all his noble responsibility. But while the war with the Lessening Society grows more grim, and tragedy looms over the Brotherhood’s mansion, Phury must decide between duty and love.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

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