I *loved* Hector, and Noelle too, despite my general dislike of rich-girl or princessy characters. I preferred Ava and Ava's book, but enjoyed this one as well. Good angst, which I always love. And I really enjoy the world that Showalter has created here, and the characters in it. So, who is next? And really, when is Dallas's book? (3.5 stars) ( )

How did I miss this series? Although I think I may have read Jaxon's book when it first came out and just didn't realize it was part of a series. That was before GRs so I wasn't as aware.

Anyhoo, I really enjoyed this book. I liked the world building although if you think about it too much it doesn't make a whole lot of sense. Why do all these other types of aliens want to live on Earth? But I liked the love story enough not to think about that too much. It did't have any dopey futuristic gag triggers for me so it gets a pass.

The heroine was strong but not without her insecurities which were very well written. The hero was also well written as a tormented man who couldn't touch people because of his power. Their relationship development was believable and not hurried.

I'm going to try to find the rest of the series. I would really like to see Dallas' story but it seems it hasn't been written yet. ( )

Noelle gives Hector a run for his money, I love learning more about Noelle and Ava's training days as well. Great laughs.
( )

I *loved* Hector, and Noelle too, despite my general dislike of rich-girl or princessy characters. I preferred Ava and Ava's book, but enjoyed this one as well. Good angst, which I always love. And I really enjoy the world that Showalter has created here, and the characters in it. So, who is next? And really, when is Dallas's book? (3.5 stars) ( )

Dark Taste of Rapture
3 Stars

AIR agent in training, Noelle Tremain has her libido and heart set on her instructor, Hector Dean. Unfortunately, Hector is determined to keep Noelle at arms length, literally, as he is unable to control his deadly ability to kill with touch. But when Noelle and Hector are partnered on a case, there will be no escaping the smoldering passion between them.

Series note: This is the final book in Showalter's Alien Huntress series. However, the spin-off, Otherworld Assassin, is set in the same world and apparently continue the storylines.

To begin with, the exact nature and origin of Hector power is never explained. Moreover, his fear that his ability will harm or kill Noelle is understandable, but his repeated rejections, both physical and emotional, undermine the romance as Noelle's determination to have him makes her appear weak and spineless. This is exacerbated by her lack of self-confidence, which her snarky façade never manages to entirely mask.

Speaking of the snark, it is excessive, overdone and ridiculous. It is difficult to take characters seriously when they speak and behave like overgrown teenagers at a frat party.

The plot diverges from the Schön Queen storyline in the last few installments and returns to the alien sex trafficking arc from the first couple of books. This would be not be a problem if the investigation wasn't underdeveloped and slipshod. There is no real build up of suspense and the resolution is rushed and anti-climactic.

In sum, this is a disappointing end to the series as the romance is lackluster and the ongoing story arcs remain unresolved. Hopefully, the first book in the spin-off will provide some closure.

( )