Hoping For More: Eve of Samhain

Title: Eve of Samhain
Author: Lisa Sanchez
Series: Hanaford Park #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Page Count: 216 Pages
Published: May 25th 2010 by Omnific Publishing
Rating: 3/5

As a college senior and server at Hanaford Park's hottest nightclub, twenty-one year old Ryann Pierce's plan was simple: work hard, make lots of money, and avoid the ass-grabbers at all costs. What she never planned for was Quinn Donegan—the living, breathing advertisement for sinful behavior that waltzed into her life.
With an angelic face, a hard body and a butt-load of charm, Quinn had a way with the ladies—a lot of ladies. Cursed with a deadly, addictive touch, his trail of indiscretion blazed across five hundred years. Tired and jaded, Ryann is a shocking revelation Quinn didn't see coming.
Filled with desire, yet unable to touch one another, Ryann and Quinn embark on a daunting journey, battling frustrating physical limitations while exploring their new love. In a race against the clock, Ryann learns she must plead for Quinn's life before…the Eve of Samhain. Determined to end her lover's suffering, not even the danger dogging her every move can keep her from her mission.

My Review:

The story is about a tough, independent girl who falls in love with a man she can't touch. The chemistry between the two ill-fated lovers was electric, and the mythical story surrounding his curse was really interesting.

I really wanted this book to blow me away, and it just...didn't. There were all the ingredients needed for a delicious story, but the plot just didn't rise to its potential.

The main character was almost snarky enough, almost strong enough, almost smart enough - but then she did things to completely flatline her likability. A self-proclaimed tough girl; growing up in the foster system, working her butt off just to afford tuition and rent, it didn't make sense to me that she would also be obsessed with designer shoes and handbags.

The antagonist was totally creepy and I was excited about his sinister appearances, only to have him disappear for the meat of the book and reappear suddenly (and conveniently) at the very end.

The love interest was my favourite part, but again there wasn't quite enough of him. I wanted to know more about him. Wanted more scenes of him protecting her - not just "a month went by" and now I'm in love with him. More reasons for his shadows and the sadness in his eyes. Just more.

I still think that Lisa managed to craft an enjoyable story, I just feel sad for the masterpiece it could have been with an extra 100 pages and red pen.