Blood, Body and Mind

'Blood, Body, and Mind is the first book in Kathi S. Barton's "Aaron's Kiss" series, and what a riveting story it is. Aaron was new in the area, having only been in the Kiss for a few weeks when he'd finally had his fill of the way the current Master Vampire was treating the Kiss family. That's when he challenged him to the death for the rites. Needless to say, Aaron won the battle and is now the current Master Vampire. Unfortunately, that three-hour battle, along with the corruption and cruelty of the previous master, has presented an uphill battle where trust is concerned with the rest of the vampires. As members of the Kiss are coming to the castle to pledge their loyalty to the new Master, a plot to kill him comes to light, and it's discovered by a human woman. Sara Temple had already saved the Carlovetti's from being murdered when Aaron asks Sara to save him as well. She really had no intention of doing so but finally agreed once ascertaining a promise from Aaron that he would take her life once she saved his. Things didn't go as planned and Sara lives. This storyline is so intense with twists and turns that chase a dark plot and a purely evil villain. But it's not all dark and dangerous, there's quite a bit of snark from Sara and just as much pompous egotism from Aaron that makes these confrontations comical to me. And then, what's not to love about Duncan, Aaron's daywalker? His personality is just over the top loveable. This is a must-read for anyone that enjoys vampires and I personally can't wait to dive into 'Divine Savior'.