Once Bitten

by Trina M Lee

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

Imagine receiving a nicely wrapped package and you are itching to discover what lays beyond the wrapping. However, when you peel away the pretty wrapping, your excitement dims because what you uncovered pales in comparison to the outer appearance. Well, this was my experience with Once Bitten by Trina M. Lee. Not that it was a bad book; it just did not live up to my expectations.

I had purchased the e-book awhile back and when I discovered the audio was available for review, I jumped at the opportunity.

Story
The story began on a high note, which fed my need for suspense and action. However, after the first chapter the pacing slowed to the point where it felt like a chore to continue. However, at around the sixty percent mark the story took a turn for the better, which had me hankering to learn more.

I found the mystery element intriguing and the big reveal at the end was quite the shocker. It proved heart breaking for Alexa and it was at this point, I found myself sympathizing with her.

I am not sure what to make of the romantic element. Even the heroine herself seemed confused. Caught between two men, the vampire with whom she had a metaphysical connection and the werewolf who has been her best friend for years. She cannot seem to decide as to whom she wants. Then there was her ex who came to her for help as he was framed for murder. Thankfully, there was no rekindling of romantic feelings here, as that would have been too much for me to handle. Another plus, is the fact the romance was not the driving force behind the plot.

World building
The world the author created needed to better developed. Its modern world where humans are not aware that of the supernatural beings exists. There is a wide variety of supernaturals. Alexa along with her team has the job punishing rogue supernaturals. I found nothing extraordinary or fascinating about the world.

Characters
The main character, Alexa, is a werewolf and huntress who possesses physic abilities. Turned as a teenager when a rogue werewolf attacked and slaughtered her family. Currently, an alpha for her own pack, a position she does not take lightly. Despite her being a kick butt heroine, I was not her biggest fan. I say this because her actions reeked of selfishness. Most of what she did was for her benefit, which was evident in her relationship with Arys and Shaz. When it came to grudges, she was the poster child. Her penchant for holding grudges shined through her relationship with her ex.

Shaz's character did not impress me. His feelings for Alexa made
made him blind to her faults. Their bond led towards the emotional rather than physical. Frankly, I think Alexa took him for granted and he allowed her free rein to do so.

Arys is the ultimate bad boy. Loved his portrayal in the story. A centuries old, who had his share of pain and heartache. He knows what he wants and goes after it with fire in his eyes. The raw power that Alexa exudes puts her on his radar and he is determined to share that power by whatever means.

Secondary Characters.
There were a few I found intriguing and would love to learn more about them. There is Jez, the wereleopard and the mysterious Lilah. They brought some life to the story.

Narration
Sarah Puckett narrated, and she did a splendid job. She did a great job with the voices of the characters. She helped me to get through the story as I enjoyed listening to her.

Conclusion/Recommendation
The story wrapped up nicely. I received answers to the burning questions raised in this installment. Overall, I found this to be an ok read. I own book 2, so I plan to read it to see if it gets better.